#there was a mention of the x files about 100 pages back though so that’s bouyed my spirits enough to keep ploughing through

[kurt-wagner-official]

Post #75: Avengers issue 263 and Fantastic Four issue 286 and XF issue 1

I wanna credit the people who put in work that made it easier for me to do this readthrough, and with this issue I’m officially jumping ship with my online reading order. Up until now, I’ve mostly been using the one on Comic Book Herald, editing as I go along, but starting with the launch of X-Factor I’m switching to mainly follow the one on Crushing Krisis. This new reading order is a lot more comprehensive; it includes both stuff published later that takes place during this era and books like Captain Britain and Dazzler, which would be retroactively absorbed into the X-franchise but at the time were pretty independent. It also has a lot of ancillary crossovers and guest appearances. All this to say I’m not following it directly, but it’s very helpful, as was the CBH one. Anyway, to hype up the launch of X-Factor, the Marvel bullpen organized a crossover launch threading an issue of Avengers and one of Fantastic Four together into the big debut. This technically takes place sometime between the Trial of Magneto and the end of Secret Wars II, but these issues don’t tie into SWII so I think it flows better here. This Avengers issue is by one of the all-time great Avengers creative teams, Roger Stern and John Buscema. This is mostly a downtime issue dealing with ongoing plots in that book. The one I’m interested in is their recovery of a mysterious cocoon shooting energy bursts from the ocean by JFK Airport, which the audience learns contains Jean Grey. To be honest I’m not really sure why I read this whole issue, but it was good even though I have basically no context for the ongoing Avengers plotlines.

Fantastic Four at this point was written and penciled by John Byrne, and I believe Claremont edited some of the dialogue in this issue, so it meshes about as well as you could hope with the ongoing X-family stories. Anyway, at this point in the FF series the Baxter Building has been destroyed so they’re living at Avengers Mansion. Since the Avengers don’t currently have a science guy, Reed takes point on the cocoon investigation when he returns from space. As soon as he touches it out pops Jean in the dress she was wearing in Uncanny 100, who upon waking starts a telekinetic storm across the Mansion. She believes all the heroes are Lang Sentinels, and Captain America realizes she’s Marvel Girl of the X-Men. Interestingly, none of the heroes know that she was the Phoenix, instead saying Marvel Girl disappeared the night of Uncanny 98, which is also the last thing Jean remembers. Hank, who at this point hasn’t been an Avenger for a while, obviously knew the story, and we find out later that he fully recorded it in the Avengers files, but this means he never really discussed the incident with his team at the time. Jean wants to go see the X-Men, but Cap says it’s not a good idea because they’ve been teaming up with Max. It’s interesting to see it from the perspective of other non-X heroes. The Avengers have historically been terrible allies to the X-Men and to mutantkind, but sometimes they do have actual reasons, even though we the readers know that they’re not valid. Anyway, the FF take Jean to her house, where she interfaces with the newly repaired memory orb thing. It’s weird that there’s no mention of Rachel’s presence in the orb. She and the FF have a vision of the memories she’s missing; while she was piloting the shuttle back to Earth, the Phoenix Force came to visit. It offered to save the X-Men and put Jean in the cocoon to heal her from the radiation if in exchange it could take a little essence of Jean to turn into a physical form for itself. Jean accepted, and the Phoenix took her form, fully believing itself to be Jean. Jean, reeling from this info and the stories of Dark Phoenix, decides not to contact her family, but as the issue ends, Reed says there’s someone else they can call.

We open X-Factor issue 1 with a few pages of Bob Layton trying to undo all of Scott's development since the Dark Phoenix Saga. Under Layton's script, Scott only married Madelyne because she reminds him of Jean, who he's still in love with. Layton doesn't vilify Madelyne as much as you might think, but he does try to imply that she's annoying for expecting help with the baby and holding Scott back from the X-Men. We then jump to Warren, Hank, and Bobby. Until recently, the three of them were members of the New Defenders. Bob Layton pitched X-Factor right around the time they decided to cancel that series because of low sales, so rather than just have them leave the team, the final issue of New Defenders sees the death of the entire team except for those three. And to add insult to injury, the deaths are caused by the Beyonder in a Secret Wars II tie-in (will I never be free of that series?). I'm not a Defenders fan, but some people are and were, and that was a really disrespectful way to end a series that people loved. After that whole fiasco, the three of them are chilling at one of Warren's houses. Layton has a fine voice for all three characters. Hank and Bobby don't want to give up being superheroes, but after multiple teams falling apart Warren is ready to retire, so they all go their separate ways. Warren's retirement lasts for about 30 seconds of hanging out with his girlfriend Candy when he gets a call from Reed Richards and flies off to New York, where he's reunited with Jean. Despite having been over his feelings for her for years even before her "death," his crush is back. But he's more worried about what'll happen when she and Scott reunite and what that'll do to both of them and to Madelyne. When he does call Scott, he doesn't tell Madelyne what happened, just that he's leaving for New York. Madelyne tells him if he leaves not to come back, but off he goes to further the plot. When he gets to New York, Jean assumes their relationship is back on track, but he just silently sobs in her arms. Warren gives him the full story. Because this is also for the benefit of new readers, he starts with the entire Phoenix and Dark Phoenix Saga, which Scott interrupts multiple times to say he was there. I think this is a meta joke about exposition dump in 80s Marvel, and if so hats off to Layton because it's very funny. When Jean asks them what they've been up to, Scott doesn't say anything about Madelyne and Nathan, and Jean can't read his mind because since she woke up she has no telepathy and much stronger telekinesis. When they both tell her they've retired from heroics altogether, she's angry at their perceived abandonment of Xavier's dream and at their willingness to let Max in the X-Men. She flies off, and Warren goes after her while Scott has a breakdown. When he catches up, he tells her he has an idea on how they can still help mutants and the world. While all this was happening, a young navy sailor named Rusty Collins returns to port and has his mutant powers activate for the first time, creating a bunch of uncontrollable fire that badly burns a woman and leads to his arrest. A couple weeks later, we pick back up on Hank, who despite his talent and resume has been rejected from every university position he's interviewed for for being a mutant. Bobby's landed a steady job as an accountant, but he's bored with it. When they're contacted by Warren for a new opportunity, they both jump on it, and when he reintroduces them to Jean, they're overcome with joy. Warren sends Hank and Bobby to go find Scott and recruit him for their new team, and they find him at the pier where Jean crashed. He tries to push them away, but they get through to him and he confesses how confused he is. He's apparently still in love with Jean, but doesn't know how to tell her about Madelyne. He's also worried about Madelyne, but expresses no interest in going back to her. Absolutely no mention is made of his infant son. I hate all of that, but I do like the way Scott's oldest friends draw him out of his shell. Layton is good at selling the history between them and the trust that comes with it. When they return, Warren introduces them to his business partner, Cameron Hodge, who finally introduces them to the project they've all been recruited for: X-Factor. Publicly, they'll be human scientists who people can call to report mutant activity. They'll take the mutant into custody and then secretly protect them and train them to use their powers. Their first assignment comes soon when Rusty's commanding officer tries to shoot him in his cell and he freaks out and burns down the building and runs off. To cover his tracks, the CO calls X-Factor in the hopes that they'll take him off the board before the military finds him and he reveals what the CO did. The find him in the desert and, in their superhero outfits, drive off the military people chasing him. They then knock him out and sneakily change into their X-Factor uniforms and take him home with them. Now I get a chance to talk about one of my favorite bits of Marvel trivia: asbestos. Before they discover it caused cancer, it was shockingly common for asbestos to be treated like some superpowered antifire substance in Marvel. The Human Torch had asbestos clothes and furniture and fought the terrifying Asbestos Man, who wore asbestos armor. Here they put the unconscious Rusty in an asbestos bag for transport. They kinda just gloss over the jurisdiction issues with a vague comment from the CO. The issue ends with the team celebrating their reunion and success with Rusty before cutting to a silent panel of Madelyne, alone in Alaska watching an X-Factor ad on TV.

The cover of X-Factor issue 1 says "BECAUSE YOU DEMANDED IT" and if I ever find the guy that demanded this he needs to watch his back. I actually do love this series later on, but by the time this issue is over the book has retconned all the emotional beats out of the Dark Phoenix Saga and completely undone all of Scott's character development since then. A lot of people just hate the idea of Jean being resurrected in the first place, but honestly I'm okay with the idea of bringing her back. I love the character and a lot of the stories that have only been possible due to her return. But this might have been the worst way to do it. And even if Scott was still in love with Jean, and until this issue it was established that he wasn't, walking out on his family is so shitty and out of character. Pretty much every X-Men fan I've interacted with agrees it was terrible, but a lot of them focus on the abandonment of Madelyne and gloss over how he abandoned his infant son. As shitty as the former is, the latter is so much worse, and that part isn't even acknowledged in this issue, maybe because Layton knows there's no way to possibly justify it. After all Scott has been through with losing his parents, both his bio ones and now Xavier, the idea that he'd just walk out on a child is horrible writing. Obviously there are people with parental issues who walk out on their families, but Scott didn't walk out because he was scared of commitment or being a father or anything like that. He just prioritized Jean over his wife and child, and that's not at all in line with how his character arc has led to here. It's also just not a person who you would want to read a comic about. Louise Simonson will take over writing this book in a few issues and almost immediately start doing damage control to redeem Scott, but that can't erase the events of this issue.

#wes reads xmen

[freckleslikestars]

Love how it takes four books for Edward to go ‘sike, you’re not actually werewolves’

#he fully just ‘it wasn’t important to the story’s them #anyway i finished breaking dawn last night so I’m out of my twilight era now #tbf the catharsis I was seeking with my ‘holy shit it’s been a decade since that one term I fit in at school’ #hit around early eclipse and it just took me like two weeks to slog through the rest of it #then read breaking dawn in like three days just because I desperately wanted to get through it and be out the other side #so now I’m currently reading Jodi picoults plain truth because when I was 13 I watched the Mariska hargitay tv film #illegally streamed on my dads shitty little 7 inch screen laptop that we called mini ninja #and honestly…I’m not…not enjoying it…but also I’m not exactly enjoying it either #there was a mention of the x files about 100 pages back though so that’s bouyed my spirits enough to keep ploughing through

[lavynrose]

- a oneshot for artem wing when he finally mustered up courage to ask out their s/o to hang out as friends (theme parks or just garden strolls, you can pick which type of place you want i won't mind!) to confess to them and when he confesses their s/o confesses at the same time too? and the s/o is kinda shy and awkward with him so he gets surprised and all flustered with them confessing at the same time?

(ackk this has been stuck in my head for a while, sorry if there are any grammar mistakes since english isn't my first language! i hope u have a great day!! :D <3)

- coomkie anon ♡

Artem Wing and his s/o confessing at the same time pt. 1

Title: Dedicated

Pairing/s: Artem Wing X Reader

Pronouns: Gender Neutral

Genre: Fluff

Warning/s: Grammatical errors probably

Notes: blushy artem is best artem, and we have celestine being the best wingwoman again

enjoy an amusement park date with Artem <3

Artem Wing is a dedicated man.

If it had been any other person, they would be home right now.

but not him.

Even now, as the looming hours of the night began to tick, he sits at his swivel chair, busied with the love of his life called paperwork.

"Aren't you overworking yourself?" He looked up from his papers to see Celestine waltzing inside his office with documents in hand.

The question should've made him stop and think to at least consider getting rest, but no, we're talking about Artem the workaholic here.

He has heard Celestine's question directed at him for the past few days, and from different people at that.

"Overworking means I have more time to double-check these documents," Artem said as he reached out for the folder that Celestine brought over, "Don't you think it's pretty convenient?"

"Artem," She started with concern in her blue-green eyes, "I know you're trying to distract yourself."

Artem was silent for a few moments before coughing, "Whatever do you mean? There's nothing I have to distract myself from." He said with complete calmness in his voice that he could even fool himself.

"You don't have to hide it, you know? I see the way you look at them," She smiled as she recalled the lingering stares and soft smiles setting display into Artem's face when he's around his colleague "The way you act around Y/N." she added with a hint of teasing.

The mention of your name seemed to short-circuit Artem's brain, Celestine took advantage of this with delight.

"Also... They've been getting friendly and close with that new employee.." She puts her hands on her chin, thinking.

Earlier today, she caught Artem's looks of distraught while his eyes were on you and the new guy. You were having a friendly conversation.

Too friendly.

After that, The youngest senior attorney even requested you to work with him at his desk, claiming that he, quote "needs to keep close tabs on the files that Y/N is handling." end quote.

but Celestine knew better.

Jealous is the only word that can describe how Artem was acting. She decided she will push his buttons tonight.

"Aren't you... threatened?" She beamed at him, waiting for his reaction.

"..."

"They've been on your mind lately, I reckon."

"..."

"They're getting closer with each other, don't you think?"

"..."

Hopeless. Celestine thought.

To say that she's frustrated with this whole situation surrounding the two of you is an understatement. Everyone in your circle clearly sees it - you and Artem like each other.

In the way he bought cake for the whole office that one afternoon the day after an episode of an office drama aired, or in the way that he went out of his way to take care of you in the hospital when you overworked yourself to sickness, or in the way you blushed around each other, the lingering touches, oh the lingering touches. It was all obvious.

The both of you spend your time together more than anyone else, everyone thinks your blooming affections were inevitable at this point. Solving controversial cases meant having the mental and emotional intimacy to get to know each other better compared to your average professional relationship.

You don't see each other as "working partners" anymore, it's clear that you guys want each other as a different kind of partner.

It was known to everyone except for the two of you, apparantly.

Celestine sighed before rummaging through the magazine shelf in the office, grinning when she found what she's looking for.

Artem shot her a look of suspicion. He has a bad feeling about this.

"There." She said with satisfaction before dropping the magazine into his desk.

The magazine lays there, with an eye-catching font and colorful cover page, Artem blushes as his eyes read, 100 cute date ideas...

Judging from the cover, the magazine might actually be useful when giving date suggestions. Under the big font however, there was a smaller text that read, Your significant other is waiting!

What is this...

"I'm sorry but I have work to finish." He tried his best to unsee what he just saw, and decided to turn his focus on the headache of workload in front of him instead.

Celestine raised her eyebrows at him with a frown, "Don't be stubborn now, I'm your boss, I'm giving you both a day-off tomorrow. I mean, you haven't used your day-off at all ever since you started working here. So please. " Her voice is laced with concern.

He looked away with a sentimental look in his eyes, "You don't have to do this for me. I'm fine with... Giving them affection without them realizing it."

Celestine just frowns deeper.

"Come on now Artem, doesn't it sound tempting to you?" She clasped her hands and continued a little too excitedly like a schoolgirl in love, "Having alone time with Y/N, finally asking them out on the date so the other guys threatening your future can back off."

It does sound tempting, Artem admits.

He looked away with reddened cheeks, "I'll think about it."

He doesn't need to look at Celestine to know she's sporting a big grin right now.

Later that night on his bed, his mind keeps flashing images of you. You, wearing a big, warm smile on your face. You, with your little mannerisms that he came to memorize from hours of being with you. Every little thing, every moment, as long as it's with you, he cherishes it.

Oops. The butterflies are starting.

He didn't mind.

You looked stunning today, but then again, he finds you stunning everyday.

When was I this cheesy? He thought to himself.

His thoughts kept racing with reveries about you when a new image interrupted every nice thought.

It was of you and the new employee laughing together.

He frowned and his stomach churns.

"Are they interested in each other?" He finds himself asking the wind. His mind was reeling.

He thinks about the time when he first heard you say that you were married to your work. Surely, you aren't interested in being in a relationship with some guy, right?

Right?

Groaning, he then realized that he needs to make a move now before it's too late.

To him, you're the loveliest person he's ever met, your kindness, your welcoming smile, the passion that you present when you're in the court, the way you always remain headstrong no matter how many people clash with you and try to break your principles.

The only one that occupies his heart, you.

Artem is sure he won't regret giving you his feelings, and eventually, reveal them.

He got up from his bed and sent a glare at the magazine that is now resting on the lamp table beside his bed, mocking him. He picked it up with less hesitation than before.

'What should I choose?' Artem asked himself before flipping the pages, a faint blush adorning his cheeks.

This is a big step for him, and he wants to make sure that he's going to do it right.

7:00am

You rubbed your eyes and stretched your limbs as the sunlight permeated through your bedroom window, the yellow glow giving you a peaceful feeling, a new day is about to start.

A new day without work at that.

You had been ecstatic when Celestine called you to inform you last night of your long awaited day-off, you smiled at the memory as you stand up to brush your teeth.

"You deserve it for all your hardwork!" Even through the phone, you heard the smile in her voice.

Soon, your thoughts drifted to a certain raven-haired man.

'How about Artem? I'm his assistant, does he get a day-off too?' You wondered as you finished washing your mouth, finally heading off to the kitchen to prepare for breakfast.

You were about to choose what to eat from the fridge when you hear a song play from your phone in your room.

You hurriedly went back as you recognized that ringtone - that ringtone you had set for a particular contact.

There on the screen, displays the name of the object of your affections.

Mr. Wing.

'Why is he calling this early? What could he possibly need?' you thought to yourself before pressing the green button.

"Good morning Artem, what is it?" you didn't even try to hide the happiness from your voice, Artem calling you this early doesn't happen often, after all.

"Good morning. Do you have plans for today?" His morning voice echoed through your ears. It was husky and rough, filling all of your senses.

Realizing that he just woke up, you can't help but blush at the thought of being the first person to talk to him today.

He thought of you first thing in the morning!

You tried to control the lingering heat in your face as you replied, "Uhm, yes uhh- none. I have no plans for today, Artem. I'll be thinking of what to do though. Why did you ask? " You hoped he didn't mind the sttuttering mess presented to him this early in the morning.

You wondered if there's an emergency case needed to be taken care of, he rarely ever calls outside of work.

Then again, you're always at work.

"That's good," the other line was silent for a bit. As your anticipation for his reply grew, he finally said, "A new amusement park is going be opened today. I heard they'll be having a fireworks display tonight to celebrate the opening."

You've heard about the said amusement park from your coworkers yesterday, you even heard that it was a project from PAX.

Marius' wealth truly knows no bounds, you thought.

Kiki even invited you to come with her this sunday, as it's the only freetime the both of you had before Celestine's sudden news of a day-off.

Is Artem coming there today? He doesn't seem like the type to go to amusement parks, but now you know that he likes them, or at least he didn't mind going, you added this info to your list of things about Artem that make you fall in love with him more and more. Because let's be honest, what's there not to like about the man?

He's handsome, sweet, a good cook, a senior attorney you can look up to, and he always makes sure to reassure you that you're doing well, that he's proud of you.

He cleared his throat, breaking you out of your thoughts, "Do you want to go there..." He paused, his nerves getting the better of him, unbeknownst to you, "With me? I have two tickets, and I wanted to invite a close friend. Is that alright with you? "

What?

'Is he asking me out on a date!?' you were practically screaming internally as you paced frantically in your room.

No. No way. This isn't a date. Not until he says so.

He said 'close friend' so you shouldn't overthink this. You were partners, after all!

At least you try to convince yourself.

"Of course Artem. I'm glad you invited me, I'm really happy." You weren't lying, his invite was the most unexpected thing that happened to you this week.

He hummed, "I'm happy, too. I'll be there at 2:30pm to fetch you, they'll open around 3pm. " He said in a gentle voice before hanging up.

You pumped your fist in the air. You have plenty of time to prepare.

2:30pm

Among all of the outfits that you could've worn today, you decided to wear a cute, beige, knitted sweater. A pair of faded ripped jeans, white sneakers, and a beanie to top it all off.

The amusement park being your destination, you decided to wear casual clothing since you'd be hopping on rides left and right.

You wouldn't want to wear a skirt just for it to blow on the wind while you're in the air, screaming for dear life.

Nope. You definitely don't want that.

You're now waiting outside your apartment after Artem sent you a text 5 minutes ago that he's on his way.

Your head is plagued with expectations on how this friendly date is going to go. You've never felt as giddy as this before.

It's understandable, right? The person you like asked you out to go with him to an amusement park - using his morning voice, nonetheless, so it wouldn't be strange for you to think that this is like an actual date.

You bonked yourself mentally.

You keep reminding yourself that it's just a friendly date. It's just a friendly date. You believe in the power of your mind, it's a friendly date. He even said so himself.

Artem's going to think you're weird. It's not like you're going to hold hands or anything...

Yet, you didn't even try to stop the daydream clouding your mind.

While you were busy indulging yourself in your fantasies, your eyes caught a familiar spot of black in the parking lot. Artem's car!

That's your cue. When his car stopped, you made your way over to him with a small smile on your face.

His black car opened, spilling out Artem clad in his casual clothing.

You scanned his appearance, taking in those breath-taking, familiar eyes. Taking in the beige, knitted sweater he's wearing, paired with slacks and black shoes.

Wait.

You did a double take- beige, knitted sweater?

You looked at his clothes, then looked down at your own, then back at his again.

Red and warmth crept up to your cheeks as realization hits you.

You kind of looked like a couple.

"What's wrong?" Artem inquired with concern as he stepped closer and reached out his hands to your flustered form.

He even placed his hand on your forehead to check your temperature.

Yes, you think you have a fever.

It's only when he got to take a good look at you when realization hits him the way it hit you.

He retreated his hand and looked away, face as warm as yours.

"Uhh..."

"..."

Why are you acting like a highschooler!? You're better than this, getting flustered just because you wore identical clothes.

With the person you like, you added.

The both of you stayed silent for a few seconds before you spoke up with a grin, thankful that the pink that dusted your cheeks is now cooling down a bit, "We should get going now."

You expected the ride to be as awkward as earlier, but to your relief, that wasn't the case at all.

Artem played the radio on your drive to the amusement park, and even asked you about how you're feeling lately and whatnot.

Honestly, with how he's always so concerned about your well-being, you're doomed to fall even harder.

"What are your favorite rides, Artem?" You decided to talk about something connected to where you're going to go.

"Hmm," as he hummed, you looked in front of the car to see the gates of the amusement park came into view. You can even see the familiar structure of a rollercoaster and a really grand ferris wheel turning slowly.

Majestic.

Is the motif for this amusement park golden!? The railings are shimmering with gold, some parts of the rides are adorned with gold, wherever you look, gold!

PAX outdid themselves with this one, definitely took "shining, shimmering, splendid" to a whole new level. Too much for the word grandeur, you think.

You can't even imagine how wide the place must be. You haven't even stepped foot inside, yet your eyes were oogling as some more rides were seen from outside the gates.

"We're here Artem! Look!" From your side, Artem turns to take a look from the road to the park, his eyes screaming nothing but amusement.

"It's beautiful," He breathed while you nodded furiously with agreement. He shot you a look, "I'm glad I get to spend my first time here with you." The softness is his eyes is blinding as you stared at him and processed his words.

"Me too..." you managed to choke out, turning away to hide your blush.

While you were taming your flushed cheeks, Artem had parked the car already.

He opened the doors for the both of you as he offered you his arm. Confusion takes over your features.

"So you wouldn't get lost, it's a big crowd out here, " He tilted his head to have a better look at your still sitting form inside the car, "Let's go?" He said with that gentle smile, as comforting as ever.

You stood up and linked your arm with his and suggested, "How about the bumpy car first?" excitement was evident in your voice.

He shook his head and chuckled, "Whatever you wish." He said as he locked the car doors with a click. You both headed to check in and do the formalities first. After all that, with a skip to your step, you pulled Artem to the bumpy car's ticket booth, and went inside.

You're elated.

"I can't believe the Artem Wing, the youngest senior attorney, is losing to me!" You sound hysterical as you bumped Artem's car with yours over and over, your bumpy car dominating his.

This is fun! Just minutes earlier, the atmosphere between you and Artem seemed a little tight because of the matching clothing incident. Just a little. However, the laughter of everyone playing in this space is infectious, it leaves you in a really good and playful mood.

It makes you feel like you were a kid again. You hope Artem feels the same.

Before playing, you made a bet with him earlier that whoever bumps the other the most, wins.

"Y/N. I think this car is defective." He said with a frown, his eyebrows furrowing as his hands tinker whatever there was in the steering wheel.

You looked over to him and replied, "We can switch cars, let me see." The two of you switched from each other's bumpy ride and you assessed the supposedly 'broken' car.

You realized he didn't push the right buttons to ride the bumper properly.

"Artem..." You looked at him blankly and said, "Have you ever been to bumpy cars before?"

He was silent before replying with darting eyes, "No, I haven't," He cleared his throat, "I have only been to the ferris wheel and escape rooms, I haven't been to bumpy rides before. Sorry."

You beamed at him.

"Don't be sorry!" You flail your arms to disagree, "There's nothing wrong with that. I'm actually happy that you allowed me to drag you here despite you not having played it before." You flashed him a thankful smile.

He looked a little surprised at first, but then that warm smile of his came back, "Thank you." You stared at each other's eyes for a few beats in time, his ocean eyes containing a sparkle you rarely see them hold. It looks so gentle, so welcoming.

So fond.

You stared at each other for a while, his deep eyes were enough to drown out the crowd. To drown out everything that existed but him.

Blinking, you snapped out of it to teach him how to drive the car.

The cars were booster types, different from the old models wherein you just turn the wheels and you'll be good. In this specific model, commands are needed to be performed in order for the car to execute it's special feature.

"You turn it like this..." Artem is a fast-learner, so the both you were back on track as soon as you guided him the directions.

In the end, you were tied, the bumper time limit resulting the draw.

"I'm definitely beating you next time!" you declared with a smug look, hands on your waist.

After the bumper, a receptionist from what seemed like a family raft ride made his way to invite the two of you.

"You guys look like you're having fun!" He then pointed at the paper he's holding and said with persuasion, "You're going to have even more fun here! The family raft ride is the only free ride we're offering in the park for it's first day, be sure not to miss out on this special bonus!" He then turned his heel to find more costumers.

You blinked, "Too bad we don't have extra clothes..." You hung your head low and you sighed as your mind thinks of a different ride to enjoy.

"Well, he did say it's a special bonus," Artem pondered, "They sell clothes here anyway, and there are restrooms we can change on," you wondered if this is going the way you think it's going, "I can see no harm in trying this free ride." He finished with the corners of his lips turned upwards.

Your eyes sparkled with so much joy that he's glad he suggested this.

"Then what are we waiting for!?" You squeal and jump from where you stand and Artem could only shake his head at you with an adoring look in his ocean eyes.

You both headed to the line of people waiting to get their tickets for the raft.

"That's a long line..." You're already mentally tired as you stared at the single file of people in front of you.

"There's still plenty of time before the fireworks at 7pm, I can go and buy us ice cream. Do you want some? "

You're face fell, remembering you were on a diet, "I appreciate the offer, but no thanks, I'm on a diet." An ice cream sounds really tempting right now, but you must resist.

"I heard they sell low-fat ice cream in here. How about that?" He proposed as his eyes glinted with satisfaction.

He knew this would do you in, sure enough, you gave him the biggest grin you could muster.

"You're the best, Artem! Any flavor is fine, by the way. " You beamed as he turned his heel to the ice cream stall, you just stared at his back the whole time he was away.

A minute later, the man wearing a cozy beige sweater that matches yours turned around and went over to you, two chocolate chip ice cream in hand. You reached out to take your ice cream, your fingers brushing.

You ignored the tingling feeling and the chills. He looked away.

While eating, you talked about how the line for the rollercoaster was two times longer than the raft's even though it's literally free.

"I believe they added a new feature to the coaster." Artem reasoned.

"You bet. The rides' golden theme is already impressive enough," You eyed the unbelievably long line from the coaster's ticket booth, "We can go back here some time to see that feature for ourselves." your face heated as you realized the implications in your words.

His eyes widened for a single moment and then looked at you with such intensity you can't bring yourself to look away, "I'd love that." a gentle look worms it's way in his features once again.

Comfortable silence dawns on your own, little world while you both busied yourselves in your ice cream.

The two of you were thrilled as it was your turn to ride the raft, ice cream long gone, replaced by the life-vest in your hands.

"Ah," you sighed, fumbling with the vest a little longer than you should have.

Artem, of course, noticed your movements. He was kind enough to help you adjust the vest.

Of course.

"Come here." He said as his arms finds it's way to your waist, pulling you towards his stature. His hot breath hitting your face while he circled his arms around you to wrap the vest securely.

This is not good for your heart...

He's so close, you could kiss him if you wanted...

He pulled away, his warmth lingering still.

Even when the both of you sat down on the raft. The ride is going to start in a few and here you are, lost in the feeling of Artem being near you.

"Y/N," You abruptly turned your head to him when he suddenly called you, "are you nervous?"

You blushed so hard you wanted to evaporate with the water, 'Yes. You make me nervous.' you're tempted to respond.

"Yes, but don't worry about me." was your reply instead, and you smiled awkwardly and stared at his blue eyes, blue eyes laced with concern.

He leaned closer, probably so that the other people within your raft wouldn't hear, "I care about you and I want you to feel as comfortable as possible," he whispered in your ear, sending chills to your spine.

This is definitely not comfortable, Mr. Wing.

Your heart is doing flips, this isn't normal!

"Please tell me if you need something." The gentleness in his voice took your breath away the way it did as the first time.

The fact that he's unaware of his effect on you angered you so much. You scanned his face for signs of teasing. Smirk, maybe a playful glint, anything.

Yet you found none.

The raft began to move, a perfect timing to change the subject!

You leaned on him, but not too close, and whispered, "It's starting."

Water began to splash, as the raft moved with the current.

The track was smooth at first, you getting small splashes here and there.

Until a bumpy track decided to present itself.

Like before, the raft went with the flow of the water, except that it bounced and rotated harshly that one particular splash of water was enough to wet you and your clothes completely.

"OH MY G-" you exclaimed when the raft hit a rough spot again, soaking everyone wet.

You were making a surprised pikachu face as the water seeped into your clothes.

You turned to look at Artem to see his state and you suppressed a giggle with how he's making the same face as you did earlier.

Never in your life you thought you'd see Artem with the surprised pikachu face.

You took pride in knowing that you're one of the very few people who gets to see this side of him.

"Artem!" you shouted through the noisy stream of water. "We look silly!" you laughed as the water rocked everyone in the raft as harsh as it possibly can. Round and round, back and forth.

"We do!" his laughed mingled with yours even when the water relentlessly kept soaking your already wet bodies.

You smiled once again, gazing at his form with profound fondness longer than just a friend would've done.

6:00pm

"That was really fun!" You shouted to the air while Artem scooted beside you, offering his arm like he did earlier, which you eagerly took.

The both of you went for another round on the raft after the first round, not caring about the long waiting line. The ride was worth it!

All you ever did was scream and laugh at each other's state, but it was the most enjoyment you've ever had in years.

You were completely dry now, changed into fresh clothes that were sold as the park's merchandise.

Even with the change of clothes, the clothes you were wearing right now still matched Artem's.

You weren't complaining.

The crowd continues to enjoy themselves, all while the sunset was making everything in the theme park look like a fairytale.

"Yes, it was. I enjoyed it very much." Artem flashed a smile so genuine, you wanted to see this sight a thousand times more. The orange glow of the sunset gives his raven hair a golden shade, light reflecting on his blue eyes, making him look so bewitching. So you carved it to your memory, not knowing how to elicit that same image from him once again.

Looking up at him, and looking back at the things that happened today, you realized something.

You couldn't take this silent pining anymore, you wanted to tell him how precious his smile is to you, to tell him you're glad he's spending his time with you, to tell him to make more memories with you.

To tell him he's the reason of the warmth flooding your whole being right now.

'I'm in love with you' is what you first thought of saying. No matter how cliche that may be, you wanted to let him know, that you're in love with him.

"Uhh, Artem, I-" You were about to spill your feelings then and there when a voice boomed the speakers of the park.

"Everyone! One hour more to go for the fireworks! Please look forward to it!"

Your confession's gonna have to wait for later.

part 2 here

do not repost © lavynrose 08/15/21.

#tears of themis #tears of themis x reader #artem x reader #artem wing #artem wing x reader #tears of themis imagines #tears of themis headcanons #zuo ran x reader #tot x reader #tears of themis oneshots #tears of themis artem #tot artem

[inlustrissss]

What about a fluff one shot of L falling in love with his friend and work partner... but he has no idea how to declare his love for reader so L decides to ask for misa's help.

Also, can i get a Goth and Gender Neutral reader? 👉👈

you asked, you got it! Although I am just a little bit late, I hope you won't be mad at me for this 🥺💕 I tried my utmost best with keeping it respectfully gender neutral so I hope you like it!!! Love, Inlustris

Monitor

L Lawliet x GN! Reader

warnings: none!

summary: After solving one case after the other, in the most dangerous moment the famous detective known as L finally starts to realize what is most dear to him. Though never being involved with feelings or touchy subjects, L asks an outsider for help. 

My requests are open! Submit here!

Throughout the big room no light shone through the thick curtains which had separated the working place from the window that lead to the outside world. 

As the busy streets in the afternoon spring sun, came to an end, only the tired clicking and ticking could be heard. The static of the TV wired to one of the main bodies of the computers flickered and played over the loud chirping of the long-billed plovers. As the rainy days came to an end, the smell of fresh gras was almost visible, though the headquarters seemed to only know serious work. 

The (H/C) haired only sighed, noticing their long friend and colleague working on a file absentmindedly.  Normally, a person who didn’t know the infamous detective L, they’d always find his behavior questioning, but would never interfere- thinking the male would work that way. Though (Y/N) knew, this wasn’t his 100%, something must be on his mind.

Glancing, almost stalking him for a while, they thought the genius would notice their stares, which he usually does, but for some reason his nail biting only intensified. Having talked to Watari, L’s personal butler, both of them ad agreed on trying to remind the man to stop his habit. Even this genius is human and gets trapped by simple anxious habits.

“Ryuzaki-”, calling him with his alias during working time and while on the open, he tensed up, “Stop your nail biting.”.

Even with their soft tone escaping their rosy but now colored in a beautiful darker shade he seemed to grow more nervous. “Besides, isn’t it time for a break? I’ve noticed the past couple of hours you’re not acting like yourself.”, looking around, the noticed they were alone. “Are you okay?”, they asked in a hushed tone.

Looking around, L noticed the big, round and innocent looking (E/C) orbs,  staring back into his dark irises, worry etched on their face. Their make-up and unique style fitting and contradicting to their profession as always, L rushed his thought that they’d probably make a better model than Misa-Misa.  But it would be a waste to their current investigation and future cases, due to their outstanding performance as his right hand.

Inching closer to L their (E/C) eyes narrowed, squinting ever so slightly. L didn’t make any movement, not a flinch. Their eyes would notice everything, even the slightest squirm. Quickly turning around though, L shrugged “Whatever you are talking about-”, taking a hold of his sugary cup of tea, the male stood up to leave, ”You’re right, it is indeed time for a break.”, opening the door, he left the dazzled one behind: “Monitor each fottage I left please, thanks (Y/N)”

Taking a long sip out of his plain white cup filled with a half of tea and the other half of sugar, L placed down the now empty cup on to a silver tray, that mostly Watari used to transport little sandwiches for each hard working inspector and treats for the detective. Taking some time to think about the events, L let his hands slide into his pockets, though stopped mid way as he had noticed that certain ping sound coming from the elevator.

Looking up, it was the said model: Misa-Misa, with her blond hair swaysing each step she too and the extraordinary Lolita-Goth look he oh so liked on his partner. Meeting her sea blue eyes, her facial expression lit up and her friendly and happy go lucky demeanor showed: “Ryuuakiii!”, waving her hand at him while dragging the letter “i” into an annoying laughing fit, she revealed a fashion magazine in her left.

“Good afternoon, Misa.”, waving back to the blonde, though with less enthusiasm, he asked, “Were you on your way to see (Y/N)?”, mentioning the magazine in Misas hand. “Oh yes!”, holding the magalogue into view, showing proudly the front page which contained the last few shootings the model mentioned the week before her last visit, “I wanted to show them the new copy we’ve been waiting for and--”, L cut her off by raising his hand, “Sorry, you can’t see them right now, it’s still working time, Misa.”

“Aww, seriously? You probably just want them all for yourself!”, pouting, Misa just crosse3d her arms before her chest, but L remained silent, softly repeating her words to himself “All for myself?”. The blonde looked up, a curious gaze meeting the raven haired, “So you do want her all to yourself!”, giggling, the model covered up her red lips with her free hand. “I’m not quite sure what you mean by that, they are a person on their own, I can’t simply restrict and own them.”

“Of course you know what I mean, you’re a genius, you should know!”, sighing, the blonde twirled a lose strand of hair between her middle and pointy finger: “Maybe all of that sugar did get to you..”,mocking the male, L just shrugged, “I don’t think so.”

But this did got him thinking: Does he truly want them all to himself? It indeed has been now quite the long time he was restless while working, not entirely there. His mind wandering off into an imaginative world or worrisome state whenever (Y/N) wouldn’t be around- no, scratch that, it didn’t matter, he quickly noticed.

Wether they’d be there or not, his mind was partly fixated on their well being. Though wasn’t it always like that? They’ve been partners for a really long time, longer than his knowledge of Naomi Misora for sure, and friends too. 

He read a lot of things during his early days, a lot about solving different puzzles and games, but he could never wrap his hand around when they came.

His experimental time with how feelings would work while (Y/N) were partners were over, he saw himself to them as an equal by now, but what if- “Helloo, earth to Ryuzaki!”, waving the magazine in front of the famous detective, Misa huffed, “Man, bet you’re thinking about (Y/N) if it takes you that long to get out of your dreamy thoughts”, gifting him a look of her tongue, she mocked him again, “You should try that brain-work on finding Kira! I wanna go on a date with Light already again, he promised!”, a date?

Maybe a little trip, spending the day with his friend would make the situation a bi8t lighter- finding out about his true thoughts and feelings that hid in his clouded mind. “Can’t believe I’m saying this-”, he murmured, “But: Misa, I might or might not need your help with something.”, he bluntly responded, ignoring her witty comments., “Help? With what?”, again, her airy head. Sighing, L explained another time, “You see, you’re such an emotional person, where I’m more technical.”, shoving his hands into his pockets, in a hunched position he began to walk, motioning her to follow him into a room across the hall, “The past few days I might’ve felt a little bit under the weather and I do have my suspicion, but to be honest, even as a detective, I can’t help but not be able to solve this mystery on my own, Misa.”

Opening the door, he held it open for the young woman to step inside. “What do you mean under the weather? Are you sick?”

“I wouldn’t exactly call it sick, when it’s just a feeling, I believe, and not just a condition.”, he stated, scratching his had as he continued to stay while Misa took the opportunity to relax her legs and sit down on to a couch. “Wait, was I maybe right when I said you might have a thing for (Y/N)?”, noticing how L had perked up by hearing their name, Misas sea blue eyes seemed to sparkle a few shades lighter, already rosy cheeks deepening. “Awww~ Ryuzaki, really?”, she cooed at the usually emotionless acting detective. 

Like previously mentioned, he’s also just a human.

“For a long time now, I want to find out about these thoughts that were kept in the back of my head.”, especially now the most dangerous case since Beyond Birthday, everyday might as well be the last day that he would glance at their beautiful eyes, and their wonderful perfume reaching his nose. “I’m just not sure how”

Eyes softening along with her features, Misas excitement toned down and switched with a warm smile, noticing how lost the male was when it came to the most basic human needs, “It’s fairly easy on finding out how you feel about them, Ryuzaki.”

“If it would be that easy, I wonder why I can’t put my finger on it”, lifting his thumb to his mouth he began biting down on his nail, eyes following the trail of the skyline, visible due to the opened window.

Standing up and entrusting her weight back to her feet, Misas smile never wavered, “Why don’t you just ask them out?”

Dark eyes wandering back to the model, he raised a brow: “I work with them every day, I see (Y/N) every day.”

“I don’t mean as a colleague or as a friend, Ryuzaki. I’m sure they’ll say yes regardless and besides, spending a day with (Y/N) will give you surely an idea if not a start of your thesis on how to feel about them!”, looking up at the taller male with a determined look, Misa Amane was more than sure: “And if the firt time won’t be enough, the ask them out again and again and again, until you got your answer.”, making her way to the door, she stepped out. “It’s not too late and not too cold to go yet.”, winking to the male she laughed one last time

 “Take them out-”, she waved, “There is this pretty nice café down the block! I’ll come around another time!”, with that, she had left.

Thinking over the blondes words, she must be right. Besides, some time off shouldn’t hurt, it never does. Slow steps were heard as L Lawliet made his way towards the ain investiation room, where he had left (Y/N) to continue his work, so none of the progress was lost.

Not forgetting any manners, he knocked, signaling that someone would come in and not startle them. “Oh, you’re back.”, their angelic like voice greeted the male. “Yeah, though it’s now you’re turn for a break, it’s time to wrap things up.”

Swallowing his build up lumb which seemed to sit tight above his adams apple, he stood straight, expression not changing: “Would you want to go out with me?”

Turning around swiftly, (H/C) hair danced around their pretty head in the process as their eyes widened and cheeks reddened.

“There is this pretty nice café down the block.”, he said.

Seeing them smile set her at ease, nodding (Y/N) only laughed, “Sure, L. Let’s go.”

Turning off the computers, (Y/N) stood up to join L’s side and walk down the hall towards the elevator. Smiling the whole way towards the Café and while being with him, (Y/N) couldn’t be happier.

Happy that Misa had come with her obnoxiously loud voice, gaining (Y/N)’s attention on the other side of the door and happy that the whole building is bugged.

No, they didn’t neglect their work- (Y/N) did monitor the fottage, though L did not necessarily mention which one. 

Just like spring had brought the most wonderful flowers, a relationship blossoming would soon follow up.

#l lawliet x reader #l x reader #L Lawliet #misa amane #death note x reader #gender neutral s/o #death note L #death note #death note l x reader #L lawliet oneshot #oneshot

[ssa-dg]

Walls are Built to be Knocked Down

Overview: this takes place in season 7 episode 2. You joined the BAU after the death of Emily and JJ’s departure. However when they both come back, everyone is shook up.

TW: mentions of drugs, murder, rape (it takes place in the episode). Adult themes

Relationship: Spencer Reid x (female) reader

Word count: 3352

Author’s note: so I have been wanting to write another short story about Spencer but couldn’t get myself to do it. Glad I got inspired by episode 2 of season 7. This is when Spencer is still mad at JJ about Emily. The unsub is the one who is neuro-divergent and is obsessed with his brother’s wife. If you have any suggestions on how to write a better Spencer Reid, I would love that. I struggle with writing an accurate Reid because he is supposed to be so smart and I’m the type of person who has been told she’s “dumb” so it’s an insecurity of mine. Give me advice if you have any just be nice. P.S. the formatting on this is so weird. I don’t have my laptop rn because it’s getting fixed and the mobile version of this app sucks lol

You and Spencer were never really good friends. You two were good coworkers and you always got along well, but it took Spencer a lot to let people behind his wall. So when you joined the team from the whit collar unit, after Emily’s death. You could tell everyone on your new team was grieving, and because you didn’t know them all that well you didn’t pry. Though slowly each member let things slide to you about their grieving. You didn’t expect that to happen but you weren’t surprised. You were always a reliable person, old friends would come out of nowhere just to talk to you about their problems, or random people in cabs, on the subway, etc. You just had that air about you, one that was dependable, nonjudgmental, and understanding. Your family called it your superpower.

So when Emily turned out to be alive and JJ and Hotch knew the whole time, the team was stunned. You didn’t fully comprehend the travesty of what they went through but you understood the pain and relief that accompanied them. Knowing they probably had 100 million different conflicting emotions swirling in them you suspected they’d be going through “it” the next months.

As JJ walked into the BAU with Prentiss talking about how she had passed all the qualifications to finally become a profiler, JJ saw Spencer come out of the elevator. “Hey, where have you been?” JJ asked him, “I wanted to do brunch this weekend”

“I had to deal with some stuff with my mom,” he flipped through the pages in a file to avoid eye contact with his friend, “have you seen Y/N?” he finished.

“Uh, she’s at her desk I think,” Spencer sped off to your desk. “He hates me,” JJ finished.

You sat at your desk looking over case files when Spencer came rushing up to you. “Hey, Y/N,” he greeted you and looked around.

“What’s up?” You asked expecting there to be a reason he came to your desk.

“Nothing just wanted to say hi,” he saw JJ and Prentiss go into the round table room.

“Well, hi,” you laughed and followed his gaze to your two co-workers. “Ahh, I see,” you said out loud.

His head looked down at you,” what do you mean ‘ahh, I see,’?” He was obviously annoyed by your statement.

You raised your hands up in surrender, “nothing, nothing. Shall we go?” You stood up and tilted your head towards the conference room. He nodded his head.

When you guys walked in and you went to sit in an open seat next to Morgan, Spencer lightly grabbed your elbow and pulled you the opposite way and had you sit between him Emily and JJ. You just looked at him knowing what he was doing. Although you gave him a glare to indicate you didn’t like being manhandled by him, you secretly enjoyed it. You were unsure why it did it but it created a feeling in you that you were not ready to associate with your coworker. He just gave you a bit of a ‘don’t-say-anything’ glare and looked back down at the file. You rolled your eyes and felt Prentiss looking at you. You shrugged your shoulders as if to say ‘I don’t know why he just did that’.

In walked Rossi and Garcia, “look master of all things Italian, I am having a Fellini festival at my house this weekend and I must serve the beautiful food of his country.” Garcia insisted.

“Maybe you should show a Disney movie and stick with burgers,” Rossi responded, still a bit offended by the pig substitute.

“You know, Rossi, you could always give Penelope a cooking lesson,” Derek suggested.

“I could help,” you spoke up from across the table. Everyone looked at you confused, “You all act like I’m not Italian. I used to go back there every summer to visit my extended family,” you rolled your eyes and defended yourself.

“Oh my gosh that would be amazing. That would be like- that would be like the iron chef meets the BAU,” Garcia looked back and forth between you and Rossi. You felt Spencer’s eyes on you and looked at him. His scrunched up eyebrows and set jaw told you that he didn’t know that about you or maybe he forgot. You just smiled at him, and tilted your head like it was nothing.

“And we could do it at your house,” Garcia looked over at Rossi.

“I don’t have a house. I have a mansion,” he laughed.

“All right let’s get started,” Hotch instructed.

Everytime JJ talked at the round table, Reid couldn’t even look at her. He kept his gaze down and you saw the muscle in his jaw bone tighten as he clenched his it. The victims were girls who all looked the same, helping a bit to narrow down the victimology. The dump sights also helped narrow down the geographical, although nothing was ever set in stone right off the bat. Everytime Spencer spoke you could tell there was hidden meaning beneath it all directed towards JJ.

On the jet you dug in deeper into the case. You started to notice Spencer stuck close to you, as if you were an extra layer of shielding from JJ. He sat next to you and when JJ spoke he’d either look down at the files in his hands or at your files in your hand. “Dave you and I will talk to the parents.Y/LN head over with us to the police station, and get us set up. Go over what they have and talk to the detectives. Morgan and Prentiss go to the disposal sites. JJ, you and Reid to the abduction sites,” Hotch ordered. JJ gave a soft smile to Spencer and you felt him tighten up next to you, and look away from her. Her smile faded into concern and annoyance and looked at you for help. You just shrugged unsure how to help.

Once you collected all the information on the crime board at the station you helped out Hotch and Rossi at the coroner's office. Then you got the call that there was a third victim. There he burned the woman’s tongue with sulfuric acid. As you, Rossi, JJ, and Reid looked over the body. The quips JJ and Reid were throwing at each other was escalating quickly.

“— instead of dealing with it. He’s acting out,” JJ looked up at Reid as she spoke about the unsub but also meant it for Reid. If looks could inflict pain, the look Reid responded to JJ with would have seriously injured her. Spencer walked off in anger. JJ looked around for help, or maybe back up. You looked at her giving her ‘I’ll take care of it’ look and went after Spencer.

Once you caught up to him and tried to talk to him he wasn’t having it. He quickly dived into perfecting the profile and ignored all conversation about anything else. He was reinforcing the walls he built around himself.

Now back at the station, you all delivered the profile to the police force. Spencer was still not looking at JJ.

Once the profile was delivered Spencer went into the room where the BAU was working out of, JJ following him.

“Spence. Look we gotta talk about this,” JJ insisted.

“I don’t want to talk about it,” he responded.

“I get it, okay? You’re disappointed with the way we handled Emily,”

“Listen I have a lot going on alright,”

“You know what I think it is, you’re mad that Hotch and I were able to hold our micro-expressions at the hospital. And you weren’t able to detect our deception,” JJ finally getting angry and defending herself.

“You think it’s about my profiling skills? Jennifer, listen the only reason you were able to manage my perceptions is because I trusted you. I came to your house for ten weeks in a row crying over losing a friend,” the tears beginning to well in both of their eyes, “and not once did you have the decency to tell me the truth.”

“I couldn’t,”

“You couldn’t or you wouldn’t,”

“I couldn’t,” she shouted and defended herself.

“What if I started taking dilaudid again. Would you have let me?” he asked.

“You didn’t,” she answered, confused why he was asking.

“Yeah, but I thought about it,” he confessed, and hurt even more that she didn’t realize how low he actually was during that time.

“Spence,” she called out as he tried to walk away, “I’m sorry.”

“It’s too late, all right?” He walked away from her.

“Reid,” Emily called for him and looked back at JJ.

You followed Spencer out the door. You knew it was risky to seek him out right now but you couldn’t help yourself. You had to try and help him. You couldn’t explain the pull he had on you right now but you usually followed your instincts and they hadn’t let you down yet.

“Spencer, wait up,” you tried to catch up to his long strides.

“Are you here to tell me off, or ask me to apologize to JJ? Because if so, don’t waste your breath. I’m not going to,” he angrily twirled around to you, which made you stop yourself before running into him.

“I wasn’t — I wasn’t going to say that. I know why you’re mad. And I think the way your acting is justified, maybe a bit immature but it’s justified,” you answered.

Spencer looked confused at your response then angrily he said “why am I acting this way then? Why am I so justified?” He was testing you in some way. If you said the wrong thing he’d yell at you too, and he would build that wall around himself so high no one would ever be allowed in again. He was hurting and right now he felt like hurting others was the only way to feel like he was in control.

“You feel betrayed. You understand why Emily had to fake her death. You understand why no one on the team was allowed to know but you don’t understand why JJ was in on it and how she kept her cool. You don’t understand how she could watch your heart break over the loss of a loved one and stand there with the knowledge to save you from all your grieving. JJ is your best friend, you trust her and love her. And best friends are supposed to help take away the pain, and you feel betrayed and taken advantage of because of that,” you finished. You could tell by the look he gave you that the wall he was building was not prepared for you to hit it so hard it cracked. His face went from openness and feeling seen, to defensive and angry at you not giving him a reason to yell at you. “You want her to understand and feel the pain she caused you. which might be why you are acting out? But when the time comes you’ll forgive her because you know deep down what you need JJ and her friendship and eventually you’ll remember all she did for you. Right now you’re hurting, but the way you get rid of that pain isn’t about being mean or hurting her, you’ll need to remember your love for your friend. And find it in yourself if you can forgive her. Am I right?” You asked him, but you already knew the answer. He let out a sigh and looked down at you. He looked at you for the first time in all his time of knowing you. You understood what he was going through more so than his closest friend, and even more so than some of his teammates who had known him for years. How could he have overlooked you for so long. He quickly looked down at your lips and the tension between you two changed. The breathing between you two became heavy and noticeable. He turned quickly and stormed off.

Eventually you all caught the unsub and saved the young girl. This time on the plane though Spencer sat in the back. He spread his stuff across the table indicating he didn’t want anyone to sit there. You took the hint, and even though you had never been close to Spencer other than him using you today for an emotional defense, you felt a coldness being away from him. A coldness, you didn’t even want to know where it would lead you.

Emily walked back to him after a short time on the plane. You could tell what she was doing and thought it was a good idea. You looked at them and analysed their behaviors. You saw the shift in them as Emily laughed for a second and from the back of Spencer you saw him move in his seat to avoid the subject. Emily leaned in as she began to explain her side of what had happened. Spencer was still mad, but by the way his shoulders sloped he was more tired than angry.

You got dressed up in one of your favorite black dresses with knee high black boots and a fancy long coat. As you pulled into the parking lot, you were a bit self conscious about what you were about to do.

You walked up the steps, found the door you were looking for, and knocked lightly. You heard some shuffling around and then heard the door unlock.

“Hey,” you spoke softly as you took in Spencer standing before you. He quickly looked you up and down and smiled, “what are you doing here? I thought you were helping Rossi teach the others how to cook?” He asked.

“Well I was, but I thought my friend might need me more tonight,” you softly smiled at him. “I was wondering if you wanted to go get something to eat,” you shyly asked, “or if you have plans, we can do something another time,” You looked at his attire and enjoyed the blue sport coat he was wearing, along with the colorful shirt under it. His hair was brushed with a light amount of product in it. It was like he was ready to go out.

“No, I was actually going to go to Rossi’s,” he admitted and you knew what that meant for him. It was more than going to Rossi’s, it was actually forgiving JJ and Emily.

“Well, I can take us, if you want,” you offered as you jingled your keys in front of him.

He gave a soft laugh, and nodded his head as he grabbed his stuff from his apartment.

“I just need to stop somewhere real quick to pick something up,” you added.

When you showed up to Rossi’s you were obviously late. But the smile on everyone’s face as Spencer walked in the room was worth it. You walked behind them with your arms wrapped around Derek and let everyone take in Spencer. You quickly handed Rossi, the cannoli’s you made and brought for desert.

After everyone said hello and got to cheers their wine glasses, it was time to cook. Instead of you cooking, Rossi decided you needed to help supervise. As you reminded everyone what the texture of the pasta had to be, and how the pancetta should look like cooked, you felt yourself always catching Spencer’s eyes and smiling.

“What’s that about?” Emily asked from behind you.

You turned startled by her, “what do you mean?”

“You and Reid, you guys came together and now you won’t keep your eyes off of each other. So what’s going on?” She asked.

You shook your head, “nothing is going on. I just gave Spencer a ride,” you responded.

“Uh-huh,” Emily skeptically looked at you. You rolled your eyes at her. Once you knew Emily wasn’t looking you slipped a glance at Spencer again and saw him smiling and laughing at something Garcia said. You couldn’t help but smile at them.

“I should say thank you,” you heard JJ say behind you.

You turned and looked at him, “why?” You asked a bit confused.

“You brought Spencer here, and he’s talking to me again. I can’t help but think you had something to do with that,” she answered.

“I didn’t do anything. He came to that conclusion on his own,” you responded.

“Well, either way, thank you for being there for him. I know he has a hard time opening up and trusting people,” she whispered. You nodded your head unsure how to respond. Out of everyone on the team you knew JJ and Emily the least as they weren’t on the team when you joined and had just returned.

As the finishing touches were put on everyone’s pasta you took a seat at Rossi’s big dinner table. You were used to sitting next to Garcia and Rossi. You expected the same people to sit near you but Spencer was quick to steal the seat where Garcia usually sat. You looked up at the young doctor standing over you as he placed a bowl of pasta in front of you. His smile told you everything. The weight of his anger had lifted and he felt rejuvenated. You gave him an odd look as he placed his glass of wine in the spot next to you. He just gave you a goofy face back. You ignored it, but you couldn’t help the feeling bubbling in your chest as you over thought him picking the seat next to you instead of next to the others like JJ, Emily or Derek.

You felt bloated after your meal but it didn’t really matter to you because you felt loved. With your Italian heritage, eating and sharing moments like this is where you felt most loved. This was no exception. You loved this BAU family that you were a part of. As the night went on and moved from the dining table to outside in Rossi’s backyard. You crawled into a loveseat couch and Spencer followed and sat next to you. You pulled a blanket off the back of the seat and draped it across you both. Spencer smiled in gratefulness.

“Say Grazie to the wonderful Y/N, for making and bringing the cannoli,” he announced and brought out the delish Italian treat.

“Oh my gosh I love cannoli,” squealed Garcia. Each person grabbed one and a silence fell over the group as they ate their cannoli. You couldn’t help but snuggle into Spencer a bit as the night moved forward and the talking kept going.

Slowly people left. Hotch was one of the first to go as he had to get back to Jack, then Derek and Garcia, next was JJ and Emily, and you and Reid.

The drive back to Spencer’s was filled with music theory facts, as the two of you got on the subject because you played your favorite songs playlist. One by one you each played songs that mean something to you. You enjoyed hearing the songs that made Spencer Reid, Spencer. They were all over the spectrum of music from classical to pop to indie to folk. You two sat in the parking lot for about an hour before you felt yourself yawning often.

“I should go so you can get home,” Spencer noted sadly.

“Unfortunately, I think you’re right,” you agreed.

“Unfortunately?” His right eyebrow was raised flirtatiously.

You blushed, “yeah, I had a fun night with you.” You looked down in embarrassment.

Spencer moved to place his hand on yours. He hesitated for a second then covered your hand. “I had a fun night too,” he admitted. You looked up at him and smiled.

“Good, because I still owe you a dinner,” you added playfully.

Spencer pulled his lips in and bit them, then let them slide out into a soft smile. “I look forward to it,” he responded.

He waited at the apartment complex entrance for you to pull away.

The memory of tonight would be one you cherished for a long time.

#criminal minds #criminal minds fanfiction #criminal minds fic #david rossi #emily prentiss #jennifer jareau #spencer reid #spencer reid fanfic #derek morgan #criminal minds season 7 fanfics #criminal minds imagines #spencer reid x you #spencer reid x reader #ssa-dg

[dreamingofscully]

6x19. “The Unnatural” - X-Files Rewatch

“Mr. Mulder-- maybe you'd better start paying a little less attention to the heart of the mystery and a little more attention to the mystery of the heart.” - Arthur Dales

The gifs in this post are by @trusttnno1​ and are used with permission! (Check out the full The Unnatural baseball post here.)

Here it is y’all. I think Mulder and Scully became romantically involved after this episode. I know it’s not a commonly held theory, but I love this idea and I think there’s sufficient canon to support it. However! I’m not trying to say my ideas are somehow superior, or that I am attempting to convert everyone to my thinking. I don’t want you to abandon your headcanons if you love them, but if you’re curious about mine, then continue reading and let me know what you think! But just as I respect your theories, I’d hope you’d have the same respect for mine.

Read on for analysis!

Poor Scully lugging the giant books. She complains about being inside on a sunny day, but you’ll notice she frames it as a question towards Mulder: “Mulder, it is such a gorgeous day outside. Have you ever entertained the idea of trying to find life on this planet?”

She’s saying, in essence, I’M HERE, HELLO?!

Also I love the connection to the ending. Scully wanting to be outdoors and to enjoy time away from work, then Mulder inviting her outdoors later specifically separate from their work.

Her cute face when eating her dreamsicle. She is in SUCH a different place here than the last scene we saw her in - the ending of “Milagro”. This is one of the main reasons I see the shift in their relationship happening around this time rather than in season 7. Scully is playful, very smiley, joking around. She has a lightness about her that we have so VERY rarely seen. Something’s different - I think she’s ready and that she’s just waiting for him to be ready as well. She is super flirty with him.

Mulder’s “Ugh. Bet the air in my mouth tastes better than that. You sure know how to live it up, Scully.”

Why don’t you test that theory? 

Also, WHO exactly is the one pouring over records in the office, calling her in over a weekend? WHO exactly needs to learn to “live it up”? 

Scully’s throwing all the hints Mulder’s way but he’s still SO FOCUSED on the work. I think he intended to invite Scully to the office to just spend time with her, because he doesn’t know how to spend time with her otherwise. He feels he doesn’t have the right, or that she wouldn’t want to, or that he can’t have her and his quest at the same time. 

The picture of them is now ON THE WALL instead of sitting on the desk. I guess Mulder is done his feathering. I’m wondering at the symbolism of that, though. No longer just placed on a counter, with the lamp pointing at it, but attached to the wall WITH PERMANENCE. 

How apt is it that Mulder leaves on a case, distracted by it, forgetting that he called Scully here for a different purpose (just to have her near)? VERY.

Scully’s face when he tears out the page in the book, contrasted with her very turned on face and saying “Rebel”. She’s generally a rule follower, but… she’s willing to break them under very particular circumstances. And enjoys it when doing so. 

***

I really enjoyed the Exley story. It was a wonderful tale that I seem to forget about because it’s sandwiched between some of the best MSR we’ve ever gotten in the show. But, this analysis is about the MSR so that’s what I’m going to focus on.

“What you fail to understand in your joyless myopia is that baseball is the key to life-- the Rosetta Stone, if you will.” - Arthur Dales

All of Mulder’s questions can be answered by baseball. So what does he do at the end with Scully? He shares baseball with her.

“Agent Mulder, do you believe that love can make a man shape-shift?” - Dales “I guess… women change men all the time.” - Mulder

Dales goes on to say he’s not talking about women, and Mulder is being non-specific about being changed - but it is 100% the case that he’s changed since Scully has come into his life. It doesn't really have to do with the fact that she’s a woman, but that she’s SCULLY. He’s learned to only trust the right people, that she loves him and he might even be worthy of it, but he still has some ways to go.

Dales’ “heart of the mystery/mystery of the heart” comment. Just… !!!!! He encourages Mulder to think about things other than his obsession with the X-Files. That there is more to life than his endless pursuit of the Truth.

Dales calls his baseball figure “Pete Rosebud”. A reference to Citizen Kane? A name spoken on a deathbed that doesn’t get solved, but it’s related to the last happy moments of the character in the movie. The suggestion that trying to solve the mystery on its own is doomed to failure, that there is something else worth pursuing.

Mulder’s love for baseball brings him back to his childhood, when he was happy (see “Home”) and his thoughts about settling down and having a family, remembering his childhood by the smell of the baseball. He wants to give that to Scully.

The love Exley has for baseball - it changes him. Mulder changes, or vows to change, by the end. This is the awakening he needed. He doesn’t HAVE to have a singular, obsessive focus on his quest in order to be successful. In fact, the suggestion that he CANNOT be successful if he pursues his Truth above all else in his life.

Just because something is mundane, like love, doesn’t mean it isn’t the purpose, the reason behind it all. This doesn’t mean he should discount all the complicated stuff, that he should “get out of the car” like Scully seems to want, but that he should INCLUDE it in his life alongside all the rest. His focus has been solely his work. He lives there, considers it his home, and was lost when it was taken away. He needs to round out his life to give it a stronger purpose.

After hearing how baseball changed Exley, whether he believes it or not, the message is there. Mulder thinks more about simple things - love, baseball. Perhaps he can change too?

For a while now Scully has been questioning her priorities and trying to get Mulder to leave the X-Files, to abandon the quest that she sees as never ending and having no hope of a satisfying conclusion. She feels she has no chance for a relationship with him as long as he is so focused on his quest - and she is partially correct. Dales’ words, and Mulder’s reminder of happier times, gets him to take that next step, showing Scully he’s ready to expand his universe to include more than his quest.

So, he invites Scully to play baseball with him.

And not just… tossing balls at her and giving her a few tips. Wrapping himself around her, speaking closely into her ear, making her laugh, his hand lingering on her hip. It’s SO MULDER, and so very intimate and romantic.

“Hips before hands.”  ❤️   

“I’m in the middle.”  ❤️ 

And Scully’s giggle.  ❤️ 

Not to mention baseball metaphors/idioms. They are literally hitting home runs. Hitting it out of the park. Together, they write their future in the stars.

I can’t imagine them waiting minutes, never mind months, to release all the pent-up passion they’re been withholding for years after this moment. Scully’s ready, and Mulder decides to take a chance, to expand his world to include a relationship with her. Not abandoning his quest, but making it stronger by including Scully, by having her closer at his side for it. 

By focusing on the mysteries of the heart as well as the heart of the mystery.

End Note/Future Discussions/Disclaimer I’ll address such things as the Amor Fati confessions/dream, the Millennium kiss, and the conclusion of the Samantha arc when it comes to those episodes.

#xfiles #x-files #x-files rewatch #x files rewatch #msr #mulder and scully #fox mulder #dana scully #season 6 #atths

[hitsuackerman]

Unpredictable (Overhaul x Reader) pt.14

a/n: thank you all so much for taking the time to read this fic <3 reading your comments always warm my heart so much and never fail to make my day :’) enjoy this chapter hohoho >:3

warnings: this cannot be read solo, crossover

Links: part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5, part 6, part 7, part 8, part 9, part 10, part 11, part 12, part 13, part 15

Masterlist to my other fics: here :)

Overhaul’s waiting list: @jjk-biased @infinite-universe-love @dirtypride @blackymomo03 @azzie @purple-rabanito​ @meximorrita @awesomeee19​​ 

“ACKERDADDY! YASSS!”

“Isn’t it too early, even for you Gei?” Levi complained as he took a sip of his coffee. You had told him that Gei would be coming over for breakfast, what he did not expect was the echoing screech of his famous nickname from the flamboyant man. But if he were to be honest, Gei was a breath of fresh air.

“He’s right.” Compared to Levi, you still had not fixed yourself up. It looked as if he were the owner of the unit and you were some homeless person he took pity on. Bed hair still present, zero makeup, and Overhaul’s jacket still wrapping your torso. “It’s 7 in the morning Gei. Now make yourself useful and give us the take out.”

“How in the world did you date this cave woman, Levi?” Gei stuck his tongue out as he placed the food onto the table. His stomach did a cartwheel when he saw the signature smirk on the ever so handsome officer.

“I asked myself that question everyday.” He flinched when you threw a coaster at his face. Giving you a wink, he tossed the coaster to the table and sipped his coffee once more. Yet his peripheral vision was on the jacket. A pang of jealousy hit him knowing that was once where his jackets would rest.

Gei was quick to see the remorse in his face and turned the subject.

“So~ What’re you up to Ackerdaddy?” He placed the pancakes in front of Levi. “It’s rather sudden that you’d travel 4 hours just to be here.”

“Her boss is meddling with her cases. I have to accompany them to the HPSC later in the day.” He sliced the pancake and chewed on it. “Petty and troublesome.”

“You’re always welcome in my office~” He winked at the gorgeous man who simply shook his head with amusement. “What about you, baby girl? How’s you and Overhoe?”

“We won’t be partnering for the stake out. Nao will be taking my place instead.” You explained as you ate some bacon. “Chief is making me focus on the arson case. Though I don’t really see the need to since it’s basically straw pulling at this point. Oh well. Hopefully meeting up with Endeavor would help.”

“Good lords. Ya’ll are already dead beat this early in the morning.” Gei pouted and wiped non-existent sweat away. “My invitation still stands, boo-boos. I do need a new secretary though. If ya’ll can hand over a talented man, feel free to toss him in.”

The breakfast was seemingly quick and you were now ready for the day’s work. Picking a business attire, you checked yourself out in the mirror. Presentable enough for those assholes, that’s what you thought. Recalling the last time you saw them, it was when a certain popular hero dragged you in on a random case. The scenery of being parked outside a grocery store and waiting for a delivery was the most random your police life could ever get. Still, the hero made up for an excellent connection during desperate times.

Grabbing your phone, you scanned through the notifications and answered three calls while doing the final touches to your look. By the time you were about to exit your room, you took a step back and dialed a number.

“Good morning.”

“What is it?” Overhaul asked. His voice seemed to echo. You were almost certain that he was doing his villain duties. Though, it made you wonder why he still chose to answer. Maybe he wasn’t in the middle of it.

“Just wanted to annoy you with sunshine. That’s all.” Hearing him sigh meant victory. “Bathe in flowers and joy, Chisaki.”

“When I said feel free to call, I meant regarding the case.” Chrono, who was holding the phone for him, rolled his eyes. Sometimes he loved wearing the mask for that sole purpose. Of course it was rare, though. He respected Kai with all his might. He just had his tendencies.

“That’s not the tone you gave me, though.” Hearing a knock on your door, you had to cut the call short. “Well, I gotta go. I do hope I disrupted your villainous activities.”

“Oh, you did.” That smoothness in your voice caused chills to run down your spine. That man could say random shit and make it sound enticing. “Till later, Problem Child.”

Ending the call, you were now in a much lighter mood. When you were now in the living room, Levi and Gei were ready to leave. Asking the doctor if he would like to be sent to work, he merely flicked his imaginary long hair and said that he had his chauffeur waiting for him downstairs. That was his code for he brought along his car.

Now that Levi and you were on your way to the HPSC building, the both of you were reviewing the elements of the case. Asking each other questions that they might ask. As he drove, you were flipping pages after pages that ultimately lead to being unsolved. With the last straw being Endeavor, Levi stated how the people in the commission would surely give you dirty looks.

“I could honestly care less about them.” You waved him off as he now parked the car. “My ultimate concern is the chief. Do me a favor and stay in the middle?”

“You didn’t have to ask.”

As if on cue, the chief was waiting by the entrance. He had been wearing his uniform which only meant he was fresh from a raid. When Levi took command, his nose picked up the smell of sun, sweat, and some kind of vegetable. Nothing has indeed changed.

All of you were now making your way towards the meeting room. Small talk being exchanged every few steps of the way. When the big glass doors were now opened, all three of you were met by the president herself. Stealing a quick glance, Levi reassured you with a nod and a small tap on the knuckle. Activating your quirk, you felt relaxed once more.

Taking your respective seats, you were quick to take the file out and give them a part of your attention.

“It has come to our attention that a certain case has been lax for quite some time now?” The president started, eyes scanning the reports.

“It has. Every lead had been fully searched yet nothing. The last one is admittedly a straw but it might open something.” You swallowed a bit of saliva. “I will be meeting with Endeavor in the next few days to briefly discuss his ties with the companies.”

“How long has this been under your wing?”

“About a year.” You weren’t sure but it was more or less that amount. Cursing yourself, it was rather embarrassing that your record was not 100% solved cases. It couldn’t be helped though, you would remind yourself that from time to time.

“Drop the case. We’ll take care of it.” The president commented. She closed the folder and handed it over to one of the secretaries. Being handed another file, you watched as they began to distribute copies of it. “However, you may still proceed with Endeavor. Update us regarding that.”

“Sure.”

“Chief Kaoru, have you relayed the information to these two officers?”

“Not yet.” He replied with a smug tone on his voice. Both Levi and you managed to pick it up. Straightening both your postures, anticipation went up. “I thought it would be best for you to break it to them.”

“Understood.” The president nodded to the guard. Following instructions, you watched as the doors opened. Two familiar heroes, along with 4 students, now entered the meeting room. “We have come to discuss a much important matter. However, the HPSC will simply oversee this one. Fatgum and Sir Nighteye will be in charge for the next mission to come. Treat this with utmost confidentiality.”

“(Y/N)~” Fatgum greeted you. He was as round as ever. But there was worry in his eyes. “Long time no see~”

“Indeed it has been, Taishi~” Something was wrong. Despite your quirk constantly steadying your blood pressure, your breathing was now uneven. You had no problem with Fatgum. It was Sir Nighteye you were unsure of. “What’s the mission?”

Giving the floor to Nighteye, all three of you observed as he took out an evidence bag from his pocket. Placing it on the table, Levi took it and held it up for both of you to see. Inside was a small silver bullet.

“That bullet right there,” Nighteye began. “Managed to erase this student’s quirk for a few hours.”

“Erase?” Levi repeated.

“Yes.” The student with dwarf-like ears answered. “I’m not sure when it wore off but I woke up this morning and my quirk was back to normal.”

“And where do you think these bullets came from?” The chief asked. He was now scanning the report and his eye caught sight of a familiar name. He couldn’t help it. A smirk now formed on his face. The tables have now turned to his favors. This was unexpected, they informed him about the outline but he was all too happy at the situation now.

“We think they came from the black market. One of our sidekicks mentioned that the Yakuza might have something to do with this.” Nighteye now opened his copy and flipped through some pages. His glasses reflected the small font on the paper. You knew about his quirk. If anything, you decided to avoid being touched by him. They probably had an idea that you were working with Overhaul and would exploit it.

Levi knew by now what was going on. From under the table, he reached for your hand. It had been clenched into a tight fist this whole time. Holding on to it, he caught a glimpse as to how your shoulders relaxed but your jaw tightened. Feeling your fingers wrapping around his, that was all the support he could lend you for now.

“What’s wrong with you?” He asked the green haired boy. “You look like you want to take a shit.”

“Overhaul…” The green haired child began. From where you were sitting, there was fear and regret in his eyes. “Overhaul was last seen with his daughter. She managed to bump into us.”

Just how much did you not know about Overhaul? Nodding him to continue, you saw how his shoulders began to tremble.

“I heard that you 're working with him on a case right now.” He continued. “If there’s any way you can use that to our advantage, please. Please help us get Eri-chan back. Mirio-senpai and I couldn’t do anything but let her go back with that monster. I want to be a hero but I can’t even save a child.”

“Enough.” Levi cut him off. “Sure you wanna be a hero, I get it. But one doesn’t become a hero overnight, kid. The only advice I can give you now is to calm down and recollect yourself. Letting anger and regret take control won’t do shit for any of us.”

“Mr. Ackerman.” Nighteye intruded. “Would it be a burden to ask for your cooperation with this case? You and your quirk would be most helpful in the next coming weeks.”

“Can’t do, Sir Nighteye.” The chief answered on Levi’s behalf. “Ackerman was dragged on for the case now handed over to the big dogs. He’ll be staying here till his meeting with Endeavor is finished. It is to his discretion if he wishes to tag along on his remaining days.”

“First off,” He looked at the chief with his steel gray eyes. One that sent the hairs on his forearm to stand. “Do not answer on my behalf. I work independently as we agreed, shitface.”

Fatgum, Nighteye, and the students all felt their jaws drop. Though the police force did not stand out, it was impossible to not hear about the man in front of them. With a quirk suitable for a hero, it had always been a mystery as to why he chose to hide from the spotlight. Dozens of rumors surrounded Levi Ackerman, yet none of them were sure which were real or not. One thing was certain, the chief did not hold his respect.

“Second, while it’s true that I can only stay till my meeting with Endeavor is over, I can lend my assistance in this mission.” He paused and stared at Nighteye. “On conditions of course.”

“What might that be?”

“There’s only two.”

Nighteye gave him the sign to proceed.

“Do not meddle with my actions. I prefer to work alone when it comes to these.” Squeezing your hand, he made sure to let you feel that you were not alone and he would protect you with whatever power he has in this situation. “The other would be not to exploit her current standing with Overhaul.”

The heroes felt the room shrinking.

“The case she is working on contains classified information. While he may be a villain, there is an unspoken contract that she does not meddle with whatever business he has.”

“That’s right.” You finally spoke up. “While it’s true that he and I have been successfully teaming up for the current case I have, it was made into an agreement that I do not butt in with his affairs. I’m sorry, kid. The only thing I can share is that the Shie Hassaikai base is like a maze and that he may have been in contact with the League of Villains.”

“League… of Villains?” The green haired kid uttered. “Sh-Shigaraki made contact with Overhaul?”

“It seemed so.” You were now choosing your words. You had said too much.

“Are those your conditions?” Nighteye confirmed. There wasn’t that much weight to it and he wasn’t expecting a lot from the both of you either. When Levi confirmed, he stood up and adjourned the meeting. Saying that he still had to meet up with a few other heroes regarding the new found mission.

Now that it was only the three of you in the room, Levi let go of your hand and stood up as well. His senses could feel your disappointment, fear, and urgency. The man sitting beside him ultimately swelled with pride and silent victory at how the meeting had went.

“Let’s go, (L/N).” He said as he went his way towards the door. Opening it wide. He knew you needed a breather. There was a place in his mind that he knew would help sort out your thoughts. It couldn’t be blamed though, you had been dropped a massive bomb. When you passed by him, he slammed the door and grabbed your wrist.

“Levi?!” You squeaked as he ran all the way back to the car. Telling you to get in, you followed and now found yourself buckled up and back on the road. The ride was silent but from the direction he was going and the lane he was in, you knew where he was going.

Your thoughts were cut when you saw his palm asking for yours. Accepting his offer, you desperately held on to it.

“You can cry.” He said as he took the familiar turn towards the destination. “Go ahead.”

Leaning closer towards him, you released your quirk and immediately felt all the tension catching up to your system. Hiding your face in his chest, he gently wrapped his arm around your shoulder as you let the tears fall down your face.

- - - - -

two words: brace yourselves

#overhaul x reader #overhaul #bnha overhaul #mha overhaul #chisaki kai x reader #bnha chisaki kai #mha chisaki kai #chisaki kai #bnha chisaki

[cautious-creation]

Meeting Pietro

Fandom & Characters: Marvel (MCU); Quicksilver/Pietro Maximoff (Aaron Taylor Johnson), Captain America/Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), 3rd person female y/n. Mentioned: Iron Man/Tony Stark (RDJ)

Pairing(s): Quicksilver/Pietro Maximoff (Aaron Taylor Johnson) x 3rd person female y/n

Word/page count: about 100 words

CW/TW: brief mention of Cap and his PTSD, Steve and a punching bag

Summary: Pietro, the handsome cheeky flirt, meets y/n.

Author’s note: I wrote this a few years ago as part of escapism from high school woes. I didn’t do much editing before posting, just grammar and spelling and added an actual conclusion which I hadn’t done when I first wrote it.

"I have those files you...oh!." She looked left and right trying to spot the cause for the sudden burst of wind. The air conditioning had been faulty but not to the extent where it randomly shuts on and off creating split seconds of gale force gusts.

She shrugged it off and continued further into the gym where the Captain was practically destroying a red punching bag. 'Red in front of that angry bull's beefy biceps' she thought to herself, then shook her head at having thought it.

"I've...", punch, "got...", punch, "the...", punch "files..." She spoke between her superior's fists hitting that poor, innocent punching bag.

He paused, holding the bag still and panting. She'd spent enough time with him to know that he'd been having one of his flashbacks, PTSD is not a particularly easy thing to live with, never mind also being expected to do superhero work. This was his way of managing it.

He closed his eyes forcefully, probably trying to escape from his traumatic memories, "What was that?" He started unwrapping the protective strapping from his hands approaching his ‘Tony appointed’ assistant.

"You asked for some documents on basic DNA altering experimentation, like the stuff Hydra’s done. I managed to find some in the 'bad guys' science stuff' folder." She handed him the freshly printed and stapled wad of papers. Steve rolled his eyes at Tony's folder naming system.They started walking towards the exit of the gym.

"If you don't mind me asking, what do you want them for?" Another gust of wind almost knocked her off her feet after she'd said that.

"What the hell is that?" She grumbled. Steve didn't seem at all fazed.

"For him." He pointed absentmindedly behind him, where something she hadn't noticed before was speeding around the gym almost too fast to see the trails of blue and silver behind it. She became mesmerised by the speeding object, so much so that she didn't notice that it was hurtling straight towards her at an alarming rate.

And before she knew it she was in the strong arms of the beautiful silver haired stranger, tilting backwards with her hands on his toned biceps. "Umm...hi?" She said in a timid voice. He smiled. "Hi." He set her straight.

Steve glanced at the two, both a little irked and endeared by Pietro’s choice of introduction to the assistant.

"That's Pietro Maximoff. One of HYDRA's successful DNA altering experimentation subjects. Code name: Quicksilver." Steve elaborated while skimming through the information in front of him.

"Makes sense." 

Steve interpreted her statement in reference to the answer to the question she'd asked him a moment before, Pietro took it in reference to his code name.

He set her back on her feet, smirking. She smoothed out her clothes, cleared her throat, held out her hand for him to shake while hoping to the heavens above that her cheeks weren't as red as her lipstick like they'd usually be after any sort of compliment. He took her hand and gave it a gentle kiss, never breaking eye contact as he did so.

'If I wasn't blushing before I'm definitely am now.' She thought.

"Y/n." She practically squeaked her name, Steve gave them a questioning glance as she did so.

"Pietro." He replied chuckling.

A few silent moments passed, the newly acquainted Avengers team associates simply gazing at one another; both mentally questioning the other's relationship status and wondering why or how they hadn't met already.

Steve ended the emotional staring contest when he gently set his hand on her shoulder. She looked at him, awaiting instructions. His gaze slowly lifted off the document in his hand once he'd finished reading the second page.

"I'll carry on reading this when I have a chance. Can you leave this on my desk next to the team's files? Oh, and please remind Stark that we've got an armorless training session booked and if he is so much as a minute late I will be making use of fitness training before we start." Steve handed her the documents an appreciative smile on his face. She smiled back. As she set off for the stairs up to the main level of the training room, Pietro, once again, caught her attention as he fell in step with her.

"Aren't you still busy down here?" She asked. He shrugged.

"The Captain is to busy daydreaming about the good old days, he won’t notice. Besides, I'm sure he won't mind me doing the gentlemanly thing and walking with the beautiful lady into an area of danger." She particularly took note of the way he looked at her as he said 'beautiful'; and the unnecessarily attractive lilt of his accent.

"Area of danger? I'll assume you're referring to a certain Mr Stark's twenty meter vicinity. Or just his lab, even when he's not in it." She responded. He smiled further at this.

"F.R.I.D.A.Y.?"

"Yes Miss." The AI replied.

"Tell Mr Stark that his superior officer is already in a bad mood and threatening to make him do fitness if he's late for hand to hand combat training...again." She instructed. There were a few seconds of silence before the tower's speakers activated again.

"He asks when his session is." Y/n chuckled.

"Let him know that if neither him nor his computer system and assistant know when he's supposed to be down there then it's almost certain he's either late or missed it completely." She smiled rolling her eyes at a certain billionaire genius' poor time management.

"So you work for Stark?" Pietro asked, confused as to why the tech genius would need a human assistant when he had his electronic babysitter.

"Sort of. Tony Stark hired me to help the Captain with admin and such. We started to work, communicate and get along quite well so I've been doing other odd jobs for him as well. I'm sort of a...second assistant to the Avengers; I could never be first though, F.R.I.D.A.Y. is too organised and efficient and I'm, well, human." she explained.

"Glad I can be of service Miss y/l/n." The automated voice commented.

"And it's an honour to work with you F.R.I.D.A.Y." she replied.

Pietro leaned towards her as they walked, now approaching Rogers’ office, “Don’t tell the computer,” he whispers a few inches from her ear with clear humour in his tone, “but I think I would prefer to work with you.”

She hadn’t expected the giggle that came out of her mouth, it was in response to feeling his breath against her cheek as he showed his interest in her. She wasn’t particularly adept at flirting, or taking compliments, but it seemed he was willing to flirt enough for both of them.

Neither could deny that they looked forward to spending time with the intriguing person they’d just met.

#fanfiction #fanfic #Marvel #Avengers #MCU #Pietro Maximoff #Steve Rogers

[fimawari]

Thoughts on the comic and Skully's Identity. [Slight Spoiler Warning? Not really any plot spoilers just details and characters.]

So a lot of people accept that Jay is probably Skully, either surviving or something else. However there's also speculation that it could be Alex, Jessica, or even Seth Wilson, a few thinking about Tim. (Though I would rule him out as the artist drew what he looked like in the Comic on another post) So I raked out every detail I can. Of course it can all just be a stylistic choice but whatever - make of it what you will.

It could just be some new random asshole, but It's a given they know Jessica, so it is very likely to be Jay. He presumed she was gone, unless he watched the last Entry. That would also explain "It's you" sort of "oh shit" moment. Jay was also set on looking for Jessica, so if he did survive, you could assume that would still be one of his motives. Tim wouldn't likely have that "it's you" moment because he knows Jessica is alive. Alex might have that reaction though. I believe he presumed that she was gone.

It also takes two things from Brian and Tim. The hoodie and the plastic mask. So this person has likely seen both of them and came to imitate their appearance.

Coat Buttons

The Jacket appears to have snap on metal buttons. It's typical for this style of jacket (similar to a utility jacket, which would be useful and warm to run all over the goddamn woods at night) to have the buttons placed on top of the left side for a men's jacket. (Of course it could just be any person in a men's styled jacket, but still.)

I picked this out because it's paid attention to very carefully as a detail. Of course that's good for continuity, but I know for filming Marble Hornets they were very careful with detail and hinting at things.

2. Height

They're only seen crouching up to a door with Jessica on the other side, but if they both stood straight, they'd come to be about the same height, which was true for Jay and Jessica in the series.

3. You are broken but you CAN be fixed

This is what the masked figure says to Jessica. Similar to ToTheArks video saying Alex was broken, but couldn't be fixed. That might line up with Jay's motives because he continued to think he could solve the situation. It could be argued he also believed Alex could be saved from the Operator. It it were Alex, it could be his own changed perspective in whatever "form" this is now. That would be quite interesting to see why he would go from wanting to destroy the tapes to actively giving someone the tapes.

4. Not a point but something I noticed.

On the Rosswood bulletin, there is a blurry poster that looks like it could be a "Missing" sign. Who for - I don't know, but it does kind of appear they have glasses, so it could be Alex? This could also just be meaningless background illustration.

In the same frame, Adam also talks about people getting lost in the woods and says, "The Majority of them were recovered safely but," and he stops. That's a pretty cliffhanger "but" there Adam.

Closer inspection of the Rosswood Map shows Rosswood Rd, mentioned in the series, and was supposed to be the road off the usual parking lot they stopped in when meeting up, and an X location to hard to read atm, but it is off the beaten path.

5. In a silly doodle drawing in the comic files, I did notice this poster with a skull on it. It may just be nothing but could also be implying that whoever is in the skull mask died and came back.

Also I appreciate that the soda is Conk.

6. It's Fall about 10 years later after the first incidents in Rosswood began, in the timeline 2019 ish, but that is apparent from the trees outside and the time the comic was created at.

7. Jessica has a "Sarah" in her phone. Could he literally the millions of Sarah's but I'll point it out anyway. But more interesting barely covered is Tim's contact.

8. I was thinking about why their seems to be Blue Lenses in Skully's mask, they're even visible from a distance. Now this is really digging at the bottom of barrel but when Jessica grabs the pipe to defend herself, it's highlighted by red for emphasis. Red and Blue have often been a scheme for duelity and such.

This repeats again in the second title page:

A lot could be discerned from it. Maybe she is Skully, like a second half of her, as one of her nightmares is fighting against herself. May also not mean that and be another symbol of duelity, red vs blue.

I don't think the blue is styling choice because you can quite clearly see eyes in Masky's drawing. I believe there is definitely something covering their eyes - like lenses. Their "fashion choices" are also leaning towards the expensive side I noticed. Unless they just stole it went to a goodwill and got lucky. A utility jacket like that would cost somewhere beyond a $100 unless you're lucky. I'd pay to see a cryptid running around in Gucci in butt-fuck-nowhere Alabama in the middle of the night. Or who knows maybe Alex got some prescription lenses put in that shit.

9. Do I even have to explain the symbolism of a Jay.

10. I can say with good certainty this probably symbolises Jessica's memory of Alex.

11. Some damning evidence, whoever is in the mask has access to the original entry files, not just downloaded YouTube stuff. Jay, Tim, Totheark would likely have access to that. Alex was pretty dead-set on having all the traces deleted, I'd doubt he'd have them all uploaded to a computer.

12. No idea what this might represent besides some metaphor for life being a merry go round, but in the postcard Skully is chilling on a horse lmao. "Stuck in a loop of unhappiness." Ring a bell?

13. Can't attach another photo but the abandoned house Jessica goes to has "Bones" written on it, much like the Hospital did. In the original series they said that graffiti was just there, so maybe they decided to work with it? Who knows maybe it's some kind of new group? Maybe ToTheArk vs "Bones?" You CAN'T be fixed vs You CAN be fixed.

14. I also can't speculate what it exactly means, but it's obvious Skully can talk, not seen previously with the others. Whether out of an inability or just not wanting to. Could be argued it's a person behind the mask by choice, not volition. We also don't really know if Brian chose his path or became that. But he became a masked cryptid after supposedly "dying". We also never see people "die" just assume they have died or are dead and they disappear. Tim implies that it's just feeding off them, physically or mentally. They always die off camera or get fucked off somewhere by the egg head. They appear dead afterwords, with Jay and Brian, but still missing. All of their bodies were taken by the monster and are god knows where in some seperate dimension. This is borderline r/im14andthisisdeep but what is "death" in this series. Does it mean gone permanently or just "gone" ... For an unknown amount of time. People die, but do they stay that way? Or do they die ... In one sense, but not the other, Losing something of themselves from before, and becoming something new. That would awfully explain Brian's behavior after Alex "killed" him. It's also implied there are others apart of ToTheArk that were never shown in the series, suspected to be other members of the original cast who maybe had "died" and come back as someone else. Something broken.

Tim seems to be an outlier. It's presumed he has avoided death, and essentially kept his mentality. But still slips into another form out of his control, usually in response to the monster or the hooded man being near and stealing his pills and shit. Is he between death? Is that why doucheslender follows him? "The one that got away." Istg I don't take drugs.

That was Michael from Vsauce thank you for coming to my Ted talk.

#Marble Hornets #mh skully #mh jessica #mh tim wright #mh jay merrick #mh alex #Mh theories #idk what else #marble hornets comic #pulling shit out of my ass #updated #fima

[cozytruecrimeaddict]

I Think I Need Help (Hotch x OC) pt 3

Hey I’m back. (Also I wish the pages app would show me the word count on these because dang, this was like 5 pages of writing)

So this does not 100% follow season 2 episode 11 anymore. 

However, my warnings still stand

WARNINGS: regular CM violence, rape, suicide, self harm, and light cheating 

Nothing besides the light cheating goes into a lot of detail, just mentions and I want anyone who reads this to be prepared

I quickly rush to gather anything that is visible and bloody and stash it. I remember when I first got close with Aaron, I gave him a key to my place. In case anything happened, so someone had access to my stuff and whatever else might be needed. I’m surprised he didn’t use it this morning. 

After that I showered as fast as I could, coming back into my room and changing. I threw everything I needed into my bag and ran into the kitchen, only to find Aaron sitting at my kitchen table. 

“Did you speed here or something?” I smiled at him. Just pretend Sam. He won’t figure it out. He won’t try to profile you.

“I was worried. I don’t like being worried about you.”

“Well, you’re not my Dad, Aaron. You don’t have to worry about me.” 

“Morgans brought up that he’s worried too.”

“I’m fine.”

“Look me in the eyes and tell me that. You haven’t been acting like yourself.”

“I’m fine Aaron. I don’t know what I can do to prove it to you. I’m just stressed and tired. Lets get back to the office okay.”

Aaron stood up, brushing past me on the way to the door. I really hate lying to him. But, there’s no way in hell I’m telling him the truth. Just one more, before you go. I shake off the thought. I’m not addicted to this again. This isn’t my life. This won’t be my life. I’ll die before that happens. 

“So, what did I miss this morning?” I ask, kinda annoyed I slept in on such an important case. 

“No new suspects, yet. Another body was found, this one with word ‘failure’ carved into her abdomen. Gideon had just started his psych eval with Nathan before I left.” 

Failure, did he emphasize that word on purpose? Is that all he thinks of you. Just the little kid charity case he has to babysit. He hates you. He doesn’t want you around.

“So, how likely is it that the kid did it?” I shake off my thoughts. Stop it Sam. Aaron is one of your best friends. He loves you and cares about you. No he doesn’t. Stop pretending.

“It’s hard to say, I don’t want to believe he did it, but it is still possible.”

I sighed, trying to calm my thoughts. How strange though, to be comforted by the thought of my blood running down my arm. 

“Aaron…”

“Sam.”

“Please don’t worry about me. I promise, I’m fine. And if I wasn’t, I’d do whatever it takes to make sure I stayed alive for you and everyone else.”

“The do whatever it takes part is what worries me.” Aaron started, changing lanes and pulling into our parking lot. “Ever since you started with us, you’ve become one of my best friends. I really care about you and I know, I’m over protective.”

I can’t. I can’t have him caring. Theres only one way out of these thoughts. If 10 years wasn’t enough to end them completely, what would be?

“Let’s just get inside..” I got out of the car, and he followed. 

The elevator ride took forever. I felt Aaron watching me, studying me. As we reached the floor the offices were on, I stepped forward.

“Don’t try to profile me, Aaron. You won’t like what you find.”

He came up along side of me and whispered something in my ear that made my heart sink. 

“I know your neighbors aren’t in a band. I’ll figure out what’s going on eventually” 

And he just walked away.

I sat down by Reid as Gideon had brought the kids mom into his office. From the looks of it, it wasn’t going too well. 

The day passed by me in a blur of files, and trying to figure out how this all could have happened. How am I still here, why am I here. I’m not helping this investigation whatsoever and I’m really no use to the BAU at all. Especially if they all have to worry about me. 

Thats when I noticed it, a damp spot on the left arm of my black top. I must have subconsciously started picking at the cuts. I get up and head to the bathroom, cleaning and drying them as quickly as possible. I got back to my desk, and Nathans mom was looking for him. He wasn’t back at home in his room and she had found some pretty disturbing edits to an edition of Hustler. 

We all split up and made our way through the street searching for him. Until, another body was found.

This was…. wrong. Our unsubs profile was literally that he kills early in the morning. Not killing late at night, and to also have him dump this girl at the base of the Federal Building? It doesn’t make sense. Even if he was devolving, this takes risk. This takes prior knowledge of what’s happening around here. 

Hotch says as much, but it still doesn’t mean Nathan didn’t just do this as he was passing the poor girl and kept running. 

Reid follows a local cop who found the kid, and he brings him in. 

Back at the offices, Aaron asks to speak to me in his. 

“I think you should sit the rest of this one out, Sam.” 

“Why, Aaron?”

“You’re not all here, and I don’t know what’s going on with you, but no one is going to think any less of you for taking a couple days to figure it out.”

“I don’t know what else I can do to prove to you that I am okay. Am I the same as I was? No. But who would be? I know what actually went through some of these girls minds.” My chest tightened, and for a second, just a second, I was back in his basement, my hands tied behind me as he pushed himself into me. 

“Sam…” I heard Aarons voice, he sounded distant. 3 days, 17 hours, 22 minutes. I gave up. I was ready to die. They didn’t need me.

“Sam, I’m right here. You’re okay.” No, I’m not. I felt something gripping my wrist. No. I smelled the alcohol on his breath. I tried, I tried to break free. 

“No…” I whispered.

“Sammi!” Aaron raised his voice just a little, and the scene around me went back to his office.

“I… Wha… Aaron?” I felt something wet fall from my eyes, I pressed my finger gently underneath, wiping away tears. Aaron guided me to sit down in front of his desk, he kept his hand on my left forearm. That must be why I felt pressure, he probably grabbed me to help steady me. He leaned on his desk.

“Want to explain what just happened?” 

“If I knew, I promise you, I would.” 

“Talk me through it.”

There was a knock on the door. 

“Hang on a second, Sam.”

Gideon appeared, nodding at me.

“We found our guy, and we’re heading out to grab him now.” 

“Alright, I’ll be down in a second.” 

Gideon left, and Aaron came back to me.

“You’re sitting this arrest out, Sam. I want you to stay here and help Garcia. That’s an order.”

“I’m…”

“Don’t say you’re fine. We’ll talk about this later.” 

I went off to help Penelope with whatever she needed, 

She had everything under control and mostly we just talked. 

“Okay, but Sammi my love, you need to give me the details!” She smiled at me.

“What details Pen?” Seriously, what did she want.

“About Hotch? He’s so private with everyone except you. Like who is he? Is he a good kisser? A girl needs to know these things.”

I laughed. She wants to know everything I can tell her about Hotch?

“Oh no, I am not crossing that line.”

“Oooooh which lines and how many have you guys crossed.”

“He’s just my best friend.”

“hey!” 

“Okay, my best guy friend. I need my girls nights with you and JJ” 

“So no after work make out sessions?”

“He has Haley.”

“If all men were loyal, crimes of passion wouldn’t exist sweetheart.”

“He’s loyal to her.” As far as I knew. 

But, before I could have too much fun, something dark started creeping into my mind again.

She is just babysitting you. You were too much of a burden to be in the field, and you’re a burden on her. Why are you still even here? Why do you even bother waking up. Change that detail, and their lives would be better. You weren’t even good enough for the creep in his moms basement, or he wouldn’t have let you go back to them. 

Garcia noticed me zoning out, but by then, the team was back and Reid was talking to Nathan again. 

“Okay, that’s it. We’re going out tonight.” 

“Oh no, I’m not in the mood.”

“I will drag you. You are coming.”

She pulled me to my feet and dragged me out of her office. 

“Reid, come on. We’re going out.”

“I really wouldn’t be much company tonight.”

“You’re coming.” She insisted.

“Listen to her Reid, she’s dragging me along.”

He smiled at me, but gave in and got up. 

As we got to Pennys car, Reids cell phone rang. Everything just happened so fast. I was starting to psych myself up for heading out with them, but it wasn’t okay.

“Drive, and hurry.” Reid said as we all climbed into Penelope’s car. 

“What happened?”

“It’s Nathan…” Reid said. 

Oh no…. 

We got to the motel room, and everything was just wrong. Nathan was across the bed, both wrists slashed. 

I wasn’t in the motel anymore. I was 13 again. I was laying across my bedroom floor, begging for a reason. Any reason at all, to just stay. I couldn’t think of one. My own parents abandoned me because I was such a freak. I was too smart for my own good, yet not smart enough. I was graduating high school, and getting ready to start college at my age? The world was just beginning to open up, yet everything felt so small. Everyday everyone told me I was better off dead. Teachers ignored me. No foster parents cared enough to keep me around for more than a year. But that was all about to change. I wouldn’t be around long enough to care anymore. 

I felt myself put pressure on Nathans left arm, at the same time Reid got to his right. 

“Spencer…” I whispered, there was too much blood. Theres a chance that this kid was going to get what he wants. His answer to the pain. 

Everything faded into the background, as a paramedic guided me and Reid off the kid. 

I looked down, and my top was covered in blood, whether its my own or not, I don’t know. 

Outside, the team was waiting by the ambulance for us. 

Gideon guided Reid back towards his car, and Morgan took Penelope. But of course, I was alone. I started making the walk back to get to my apartment. I wasn’t even too far back to the main road when Hotch pulled up.

He got out of his car and hugged me to him.

“What happened? When Garcia said attempted suicide I thought…”

“I told you Aaron, I’d do whatever it takes to survive.”

“Come on, I’ll take you home.” 

“I’m fine with walking, if you had an extra shirt or something though, that’d be much appreciated.” 

“Sam, get in the car. I’m not playing this game tonight.” 

So, I gave in. I became the charity case yet again. The little girl who always needs her friends to protect her, even when she doesn’t deserve it. 

Hotch took the 20 minute drive back to my house. Instead of just dropping me off, and letting me head in to be with my thoughts, he followed me inside. 

“I’m fine.”

“We discussed this earlier, I never have and never will believe those words.”

“You should be with your wife and son.”

“I’m staying here tonight. I’m not leaving you alone right now, until I know you’re okay.” 

I sighed, putting my gun and badge in a drawer in my hallway and locking it. 

“I’m not your charity case, Aaron. I don’t need your help.” 

“Charity…. Sammi, is that really how you see yourself?” 

“Ever since I was taken..” 3 days, 17 hours, 22 minutes. “You and everyone else have been acting like one wrong turn and I’m going to break.”

“I’m going to break one of our rules tonight Sam, and I hope you can forgive me.”

“Aaron, we only have one rule for our friendship to work, and that’s that we can’t profile each other…”

He guided me to sit down on the couch and look at him. I hated that he was about to do this, and I hate that I need him in my life. I hate that I can’t let go to make his life easier.

“Ever since you’ve been back, you jump at every sound. You empathize better with our female victims, especially those who have been assaulted, which leaves me to believe that while we were trying to find you, you were assaulted, or at least threatened with it. The way you’re trying to get away from me right now makes me almost positive of that fact. The way you got lost in the blood from this past case leaves me to believe you have some kind of issue involving blood from the past, possible childhood or early adolescence. Once again, your body language right now gives me reason to think I’m correct. The way you’ve been….”

“S…st.. stop. Aaron. Please.” I moved closer to him, putting a hand on his shoulder. I took a breath, trying to steady myself. “If I tell you what happened when I was taken, you will never stop seeing me as this victim. I will never stop feeling like a burden on the team. I will never be able to get back what I lost. You want the truth, Agent Hotchner, the truth is that I’m barely hanging on. However, I’m fighting like hell to keep my head above water. All I have to do that with is my job, and making sure I stop the next creep before they do what they did to me, to someone else. If I tell you what happened, or anything that I have going through my head, you won’t even like me anymore. You’ll transfer me off to some other department and I won’t have only lost my job, or my friends, but I’d have lost my family. I’d have lost the only person that I love.” 

I didn’t realize it, but I had gotten so close to him. Our faces mere inches apart. I don’t know what’s happening. Why am I doing this. He’s married. He’s my best friend. But here I am, once again, messing things up. That was when I felt it. I saw his dark eyes staring into my blue ones. My heart literally skipped a beat, and in that second, Aaron had placed his hands under my chin and pulled me up to him. He kissed me softly, slowly. I moved just a little bit, wrapping my arms around his neck. Why was I doing this. Haley. Jack. I needed to stop. But, this felt right. As I pulled him to me, he leaned forward just a little bit more, causing us to fall backwards on my couch. I gasped, and I just stopped. I moved my hand to his chest, pushing back a little.

“We can’t..”

“I’m… I’m sorry. I…” He stuttered.

“I.. I can’t Aaron.”

“You said I didn’t like you.. you don’t even know how much…” 

“Stop.” I felt my eyes burning. I liked Haley, she was kind enough to ask me to be Jacks godmother. 

I moved Aaron off of me and got up.

“I need to shower, you… you can st..stay but I’m going to sh..shower and head to bed.” 

As I stormed off down the hall, I looked back to see Aaron sitting there with his head in his hands. I know he must be upset, he just kissed me when he’s married to Haley. I won’t be the reason his marriage ends. I just won’t.

#aaron hotch #hotchner #aaron hotchner x reader #Aaron hotch x oc #aaron hotchner #aaron hotch x reader #criminal minds #criminal minds fanfiction #criminal minds imagine

[joon-ipersgirl]

O1 - "the intoxicating introduction”

genre: mafia!au, angst, fluff, slow burn, mystery-thriller

pairing: namjoon x reader

summary: charismatic. beautiful. fearless without question. the ambitous team of seven young men in charge of spiral, downtown district’s hottest new club, go above and beyond to provide 100% satisfaction to their clients.

after an eventful night out, you have no choice but to join the team for property damages greater than your intern salary. challenging a series of events that can no longer be left to coincidence, secrets threaten to burst at the seams as your professional and private life collide, and another - more sinister - debt is added to your total.

how far are you willing to go to pay back your pound of flesh? remember, nothing is ever as it seems...

word count: 2.4k

warnings: cursing, harassment from man in club (not a member), mild mentions of alcohol drinking

a/n: my first fic in years! it feels great to be writing again and i hope you guys enjoy the story. this part is a little slow, but the next part picks up fast. as mentioned, the fic is currently in progress and i will update as soon as i can and am able to. as always, feedback is appreciated and welcomed. thank you to @alversia for being my editor-in-chief and to you all for reading. enjoy!

full masterlist // series masterlist // next

You’re looking forward to a nice night out. It had been a long, rough week at the office and all you wanted to do was sit at a bar and sip on an Old Fashioned, your favorite drink. James had forgotten to submit his report on time which meant that your files were out of order, but of course, you were the one to be reprimanded. You had never seen a set of people more incompetent. It still surprises you that the company had managed to stay afloat this long when all of its workers seem determined to see it fail.

Dressed in a short, black dress and matching black heels, your oversized leather jacket slung over your shoulders, you know you look good. The change of clothes giving you an additional boost of confidence; you’d wanted to be as far away from office worker you as possible. The breeze is cool as you step out of the taxi and stand in front of Spiral, a club you had heard about at work. The reviews were generally positive and you hope that your coworkers’ judgment of fine establishments is much better than their ability to actually submit their files on time.

Shrugging off the jacket in the warmth of the club as you head down the stairs to the bar, you're careful not to trip. Spiral is crowded. Bodies cling together like wet clothes on a body and your lip turns up in disgust. The thumping music encourages them to bump and grind, making it hard for you to pass through. You hate being close to people and you hate clubs almost as much as you hate people, but that Old Fashioned is calling your name. You dig your elbows into the sides of strangers with a new sense of purpose until you finally break free on the other side of the dance floor - your safe haven: a bar stool.

“What can I get you?” the bartender asks you as you plop onto the seat, slightly exasperated. You lay your jacket and purse across your lap as you try to get some air to flow into your lungs. Damn the rest of these people out on a Friday night.

“An Old Fashioned, please,” you sigh out. The hair at the base of your skull is sticking to your neck and you pull it into a makeshift knot in an attempt to cool down. 

“ID?” Rolling your eyes, you rummage through your purse for the piece of plastic.

“Just a routine check. You can never be too careful,” he says with an apologetic smile. He returns it to you and you give him a tight-lipped smile as a thank you.

He sets your drink down in front of you on a square napkin and leaves to tend to other patrons. Watching him move around the small space with ease, you wonder how he does it so easily when his broad shoulders take up so much room. Like yours, his jet-black hair is pressed against his forehead as the heat from the club steadily rises. You could see why he was a bartender, his face better looking than most guys you would see walking down the street. Hell, even better than some of the models with their three-page catalog spread. One could even call him handsome. You’re sure his high cheekbones help with his tips. You sip your drink slowly, welcoming the smooth burn as you swallow. They might call it an old man’s drink, and shit, maybe that’s who you are now, but it sure did its job well. Just like you.

“Excuse me?” You glance over your shoulder. “Are you here alone?”

He was a tall man with average features and a nice smile. Definitely not as good looking as the bartender, but not bad on the eyes either. He looked like a regular company worker that sat at his desk hunched over his keyboard, eyes glued to the screen as he crunched numbers or filled out progress reports. You’re only speculating because of the slight curve in his spine as he leans over to be heard over the music in addition to the almost permanent crease of his shirt just above his belt.

“Depends on who’s asking,” you say. You take another sip of the brown liquor, swirling it slowly.

“Jay. Jay Smith.” He sticks his hand out for you to take. You look down at it and back up at him.

“Sounds like a fake name to me,” you tell him. You don’t take his hand.

“I get that often,” he says with a chuckle.

“I’m sure you do,” You murmur, turning away from him. You could tell that he hadn’t moved.

“Can I buy you a drink?”

“Already have one,” you say, annoyed.

“Well, after that one?” he asks.

“No, I’m not interested,” you tell him.

“Well, can you at least tell me your name?”

“No, I don’t think so.”

Though he’s growing visibly agitated and you know you should care, you don’t. You’re just as annoyed as he was, if not more so. He was just another sleazy corporate leech who thought he could intimidate you and you weren’t having it. Apparently, neither was he as he grabs your upper arm sharply.

“What the fuck did you just say?” he growls in your ear.

“You’re hurting me. Let go,” you tell him sternly.

“Don’t tell me what to do, bitch.” He yanks you further out of the chair and you grimace from the pain.

“Do we have a problem over here?” You look to your left and there stands a short man with a very grim expression etched onto his face.

“Mind your fucking business,” the man grabbing you sneers and pulls you closer to him.

“You’re in my club. It is my fucking business.” The coldness in his voice sends a wave of nerves through your belly. You continue to try and pull your arm from the other man’s grasp to no avail. Tears are welling in your eyes as you were sure he was leaving fingerprint sized bruises along your arm.

“Jin!” the shorter man yells over the noise of the blaring music and jerks his head towards you. You realized he’s talking to the bartender. Within a few seconds, Jin has made his way around the bar and is snatching the man off of you. Cradling your throbbing arm, you let out a cry of relief. You watch as another man - you assume the security guard - comes barging through the crowd to assist Jin in throwing the man out. Were all the men who worked here attractive?

“Come on. I’ll get you some ice for your arm,” the short man says and holds out his hand. You grab it and your things and let him pull you through the semi parted crowd who watch the two of you pass with mild curiosity.

You both climb a set of wrought iron spiral stairs to the second floor. There are fewer people here and you assume it caters to those who were considered VIP. Booths lined the opposite side of the walkway with thick black curtains closing off those inside from the rest of the world. You glance over the railing and see Jin heading back to the bar while chatting to the man who had helped him, the two of them sharing a laugh. The rest of the partygoers had shaken off their mild concern over your incident and were back to dancing in the middle of the floor. Continuing further down the walkway, the two of you stop in front of a large leather-covered door. The mint-haired man in front of you pulls out a key, inserts it, and pulls you through.

As he closes the door behind you, you take in the small office space. Bookcases lined an exposed brick wall from floor to ceiling. A fully stocked bar is opposite that while a small table and two chairs sit in the middle of the room. Across the room is a large wooden desk and one of those fancy office chairs that seemed to be covered in the same leather as the door you had just come through. What really catches your attention though is the man sitting in that chair behind the desk.

His silver hair glistens almost as brightly as the silver rings covering his fingers. His expression is one of boredom, but his eyes are beautiful. Feet kicked up on the desk, he reclines back in ease as he scrolls through his phone. He didn’t seem to care that you were in the room and you felt like you had intruded on him when you remember that this was supposed to be the mint-haired man’s office.

“A snack? Suga, you shouldn’t have.”

“Get out, Min.” Your escort walks past you towards the fridge. Min feigns a hurt expression and presses his hand to his heart.

“Out? But Suga, we have a guest. Don’t you want to intro-”

“No. Get out.” Suga’s tone is final and you feel the conversation shut down as quickly as Suga had appeared by your side downstairs. Min rolls his eyes and gets up. The chair squeaks in protest of being vacated so abruptly.

“Fine. Always ruining my fun,” he huffs. As he crosses the room, your breath catches in your throat at just how stunning this man is up close. Clearly the alcohol was getting to you because there was no way, again, that all the men here are this beautiful.

“Have fun, darling,” he coos at you, his fingers brushing across your arm and his eyes mischievous.

“I’m not here for that!” I call after him, but it falls on deaf ears as he is already through the door. The sound of it closing cuts off his laughter. Heat rises in your cheeks and you bite your tongue from embarrassment.

“Don’t worry about him. He’s always like that. Sit,” Suga commands.

You sit in the chair he had gestured to and he sits across from you, handing you the makeshift ice pack: a couple of ice cubes wrapped up in some flimsy paper towel. The cooling sensation is welcomed though and you slump back into the chair grateful. Suga watches you carefully and you shift slightly under his gaze remembering how much more exposed you are in your dress than your everyday outfit. You notice his lips are thinner than the other two men, but his eyes hold the same intensity as they continue to watch you.

“Suga? What kind of name is that?” You question, breaking the silence. Though his hair is the color of your favorite ice cream, his demeanor is anything but sweet.

“Nickname,” he responds shortly. “Look, I’m sorry about what happened tonight. Whatever you ordered is on the house and the next time you come back, that’ll be free too. We try not to let dickheads in, but I guess this one slipped through the cracks.” He mumbles the last part to himself.

“I would have ordered more drinks had I known they were going to be free.” He laughs. “I didn’t even get to finish that one,” You say with a frown.

“What were you drinking?” he asks.

“An Old Fashioned.” He raises his eyebrows at me.

“Yeah, yeah I know. It’s an old man’s drink or whatever. They’re good and I enjoy them,” you say with a shrug. He laughs again and gets up.

“I’ll make you another one before you go. How’s your arm?”

“There’ll be bruises, but I guess I’ll live.” You observe him pour the whiskey into a glass filled with ice before adding an orange peel. Taking it from him, you gulp down almost half of it to soothe the ache in your arm.

“Take your time.” You roll your eyes at his comment as the phone on his desk rings and he goes to answer it, cutting your conversation short.

As he continues his call, you toss the melting stack of paper towels into the trash while admiring the impressive view from the large windows. The city always looks beautiful at night and as a raging insomniac, it was a comforting sight to see even when the sun rolled up over the skyline. You sigh as you think about the journey you would have to take to get home. At least you didn’t have work tomorrow. Just as you’re tossing back the rest of your drink, Suga asks you if you’re ready to go. You nod and he escorts you back to the narrow walkway you had first crossed.

“Are Jin and Min brothers or something? Why are their names so similar?” Suga only laughs at you as he guides you down the slippery stairs. Though it is much later in the evening, Spiral is just as crowded as when you first came. You glance up at the DJ booth and wonder how long he had to stay for, feeling sorry for him. On your second glance, you spot Min dancing next to him and your sympathy grows further.

Suga stops at the exit and you turn to him.

“Remember, next time drinks are on us. Get home safe kid.”

“I’m pretty sure we’re the same age,” you say, squinting at him. “Thank you though. For what you did.” He waves his hand as if to dismiss your comment.

“Gotta keep the customers happy, right?” You laugh and nod. “Alright then.” He nods to himself and you watch his mint-colored head disappear into the crowd.

You laugh to yourself at his nonchalance and manage to tug on your leather jacket with some mild difficulty. As you ascend the stairs while searching for your phone to call a taxi, you bump into another man. He grabs your upper arms to stop you from falling backward and you let out an anguished cry.

“Shit! Are you okay? Did I hurt you?” You can barely make out his features from the tears welling in your eyes.

“My arm, you fucking dickhead,” you groan as the dull throbbing returns tenfold. As he reaches for you again, you swat his hand away. “Don’t fucking touch me.”

With the most coordination you can manage after a drink and a half of whiskey, you push past him and head up the stairs. Were you that small that people couldn’t see you coming? Clutching your bruised arm with one hand and your phone in the other, you manage to hail a taxi on the street corner. It would be a miracle if you made it home in one piece. So much for a nice night out.

full masterlist // series masterlist // next

© joon-ipersgirl, 2020.

#bts fanfic #bts fanfction #bts namjoon #kim namjoon #namjoon #namjoon x reader #namjoon fanfic #namjoon angst #fic: double entendre #slow burn

[carolmaximoffs]

THE GOOD DOCTOR

CHAPTER FOUR

Ch. Summary: Thea gets a suspicious text from an unknown number. She risks sharing her secret with the team, in hopes of finding who’s behind them.

Warnings: stillbirth, vague depiction of childbirth, loss of a child, Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D. spoilers, cursing, probably some spelling errors

Pairings (bc I guess now is as good a time as ever to add this): Sam Wilson x WOC OFC

A/N: i’m on a roll and i don’t think it’s a good one...regardless, italics are a flashback (in the form of a dream). bold italics are texts, though that i hope is obvious... things get a little weird in this chapter but it’s bc i was watching OUAT and regina’s weird tomb w all those hearts is partially responsible. i’m sorry if this isn’t your jam right away but i promise this isn’t going to be a dark fic! this is probably about as creepy as it’ll get. again PLEASE read the warnings. 

Taglist (which is open!): @marvelousmrstark​

    THE DOCTOR AND THE CAPTAIN dance around each other for a week following lunch. She still hangs out with Wanda, and sometimes Bucky and Sam, but Steve is always miraculously busy. When Thea wakes up early to train with Natasha, Steve is always conveniently just leaving the kitchen as she enters. It isn’t until a Saturday morning that it comes to a halt.

    Tony quite literally drags Steve by the ear into the med-bay, which Thea would find funny if she weren’t loath to see him. America’s golden boy, and she’d been the one to tick him off. She knew he was a cautious man, suspicious due to events in recent years, and even in his past; it didn’t stop her from feeling incredibly awkward after his seemingly blatant distrust of her.

    The dark-haired man releases his hold on Steve and crosses his arms. The tips of Steve’s ears are grow red as Thea looks up from the paperwork she’s been doing, in regards to Clint’s mission injury a few days ago.

    “Talk,” Tony says as sternly as possible.

    “Thea, it wasn’t my place to question you about your abilities,” Steve starts, and Tony gives him a thumbs up while nodding encouragingly. Thea resists the urge to roll her eyes. “I...you made it clear you were just here as a doctor, and if that’s all you want to be then I will respect that. Thank you again for...my leg. And while I do think-”

    “Alright, shows over, nice job, thanks Dory!” Tony hastily interjects, gripping Steve’s forearm and steering him out of the small office. Thea rises to her feet.

    “Wait,” She commands, and they stop, Tony’s shoulders sagging. “What do you think?”

    “I think,” Steve says, turning around and meeting her eyes, “That your powers could be a great asset to the team. Outside of medical situations.”

    Thea realizes what he’s getting at. It takes everything in her to remain calm, lifting her chin just a little.

    “Whether that’s true or not, I’m perfectly happy with what I’m doing. Thank you for the apology, Steve.” Her words come out stiff, a little sharper than she means them to. Nevertheless, Thea shakes Steve’s hand when he offers it, and maintains her rigid posture until she hears the main doors to the med-bay close.

    “I tried to warn him,” Tony offers, having shifted to lean against the doorway. Thea drops into her chair with a sigh, leaning her head back as she clicks a pen absently.

    “I just wish everybody would let it go. It’s not...it’s not cool, it’s not useful.” Thea sits up straight, tossing the pen aside and gripping her desk. “I mean, what would I do with my powers in a fight? Put somebody to sleep? Stop their heart? I’m not...I’m not a killer, Tony.”

    “I know you’re not,” He says softly, approaching her desk to pry her fingers off it. “I won’t tell you that I agree with him, you know I do, but I will tell you it is 100% your decision.”

    Thea manages a thank you, and, bless him, Tony leaves. She closes the folder on Clint’s mission after signing a few more pages and sets it into her main desk drawer. Peering as far as she could to be sure Tony was gone, she pulls a key from around her neck and unlocks a little side drawer.

    Inside, only two items lay. One is a picture of her and her brother, only a year after she’d been adopted. Fury had explained his choice of family as ‘somewhere Thea could blend in, feel comfortable’, and it was perfect. The Triplett’s adopted her within 6 months of fostering her; she was home. In the photo, Antoine stands much taller than she, with an arm around her shoulders and the other wiggling into her abdomen. She, as a result of his tickling, is frozen in time laughing openly.

    Thea sets the photo aside and reaches back into the drawer for the other object. It’s a locket, one Antoine had given her. Though the chain is thin, the charm attached is sizable for a necklace. It vibrates with energy that might make Thea nervous if she wasn’t so intimately familiar with it. The click of the lock coming undone still sends chills down her spine, regardless.

    Within it, shrouded in the gold of Thea’s magic, beats a tiny human heart.

                                                                -

     That night, dinner is a lonely affair. Steve had left for a mission shortly after seeing Thea, Natasha and Sam with him. Bucky and Wanda had invited her to join them for supper, but Thea feigned having work to do; Tony had gone on a date with Pepper. Now, as the stove clock blinks 9:30, Thea settles at the breakfast bar with a bowl of leftover dumplings.

    She eats in silence, only disrupted when behind her, the TV clicks on. A glance over her shoulder shows her Bucky, flipping channels despite the book open on his lap. He doesn’t acknowledge her, however, so Thea returns to her meal, until her phone pings in her back pocket.

UNKNOWN NUMBER

    Thea frowns at the device, but opens the message anyways.

UNKNOWN NUMBER

Funny how the good doctor avoids her powers

with friends, but not with family.

    Thea’s heart begins to pound. Not only had she made sure she was alone earlier, and every time she went into her drawer, but the key is always with her. Any assistants Tony hired had never even been through the office - it was really only for paperwork, anyways, and they always left it on the desk for Thea to go through later. She feels nauseous, suddenly: the only other person on Earth who knew about the locket, and it’s true nature, was dead.

    “You alright, Doc?” Comes a voice, and Thea jumps. She swallows as Bucky eyes her curiously, slipping her phone back into her pocket and nodding.

    “Yeah, I...yes. I’m good,” Thea replies, but her voice quivers just enough that Bucky grips her arm as she moves past him to put her bowl in the sink.

    “Thea-” He tries, but Thea pulls her arm away, giving him a tight, apologetic smile.

    “Bucky, I’m fine. Seriously.” Thea insists before she ducks out of the kitchen. She can’t shake the feeling of his gaze, half pity and half suspicion, even as she shuts her bedroom door. After a moment of thought, she locks it, for good measure, and closes every curtain. No chances taken. She showers and changes from scrubs to sweats, and as she settles into her pillows she pulls out her phone again.

     But not with family.

     Thea still feels nauseous, and without even thinking, she types out a response.

                                                                                                           Who is this?

    There’s no immediate answer. Thea groans as she shuts her light off and tosses the phone aside. She tosses and turns until finally falling into nightmares.

                                                                     -

    2014

    Thea laughs as Antoine crouches to coo over her quickly growing stomach. One month from her due date, but her brother has been devoted to her child from the moment Thea found out she was pregnant. She hadn’t even thought she could have children, nor had she really thought about them with the insane hours she worked, but she too was excited.

    “Hi little bugger,” He whispers. Thea scolds him for language, but he ignores her. “I’m your Uncle Trip. We’re gonna be best friends, ‘cause your mama’s gotta be strict.”

    Thea flicks his forehead, and he only smiles up at her before rising to his feet.

    “I’m sorry,” He starts, and Thea collapses dramatically back into her couch. “About Ward. If we had- if I had known, Dot, you know-”

    “Ant, it’s fine. Not your fault at all,” Thea tries to reason with him, but since learning of Grant’s true nature, she’d been struggling as well. Her long-time boyfriend had seemed so...so wonderful. Though Thea tried not to think about how he had seemed, tried not to think about him at all; it just spiraled until she was left wondering how much of it was lies.

    Suddenly, she cries out, and Antoine rushes to her as she doubles over. His voice floats in and out of focus, the pain consuming her.

    “Dot? Hey, Dot, what’s up? Dor…”

     Thea feels only as if she blinks, and when she opens her eyes, she’s in a hospital bed. She’s hooked to various machines, and the room itself is crowded with people. Sound is still distorted, but Antoine is right by her side, gripping her hand. It’s a small relief.

    “It’s too soon,” Thea protests as an unfamiliar woman crouched by her feet  tells her to push. She doesn’t notice that she can only hear one heart monitor beeping. “Please, it’s too soon-”

    With further insistence, Thea pushes anyways, the promise of ending the pain too tempting. A scream tears from her throat. It feels like only minutes before she feels all pressure lift; she'd done it. Yet the cry she expects does not come. She fees . Thea holds onto her brother’s hand for dear life.

    “Ant? What’s happening? What’s wrong?” She whimpers, but Antoine is asking the doctors the same questions. Finally, they file out slowly, until only one doctor remains, a nurse standing just behind her, almost out of sight.

    “Ms. Triplett, we are so sorry. Your son...was stillborn. You can...you can still hold him if you’d like.”

    Thea’s body is wracked with sobs, but she holds her hands out regardless. The nurse places her unmoving child, swaddled with his eyes closed, into her arms. Antoine wraps an arm around her shoulders as Thea lets go of his hand to hold her son’s. The doctor mentions something about giving her time, and she and the nurse file out.

    “He’s perfect,” Thea whispers. She stares down at where her dark fingers encase his tiny tan hand, and her crying ceases. A deep determination settles into her bones. “I want to keep him.”

    “Thea.” Antoine gasps, alarmed, but she looks up at him with pleading eyes.

     “Please. Please, Ant, you know I would never ask you anything like this but I-he’s my son.”

    And as Antoine takes up a stray scalpel, Thea’s heart shatters all over again.

                                                                   -

    Thea jerks into a sitting position, gasping for breath. Her hands scramble for the key, feeling it still secure around her neck. Without thinking, she slides her feet into slippers and races from her room. She’s almost to the elevator when someone calls her name.

    “Thea?”

    It’s Sam, voice raspy from sleep. He’s still in his tactical suit, though without wings and goggles, evidently having been so wiped out he hadn’t changed. They must’ve just gotten back, then.

    “Sam,” she replies breathlessly. Thea struggles to tamp down the panic trying to eat her alive as he emerges fully from his bedroom, making his way to her. “I thought you had a mission.”

    “Just an in and out thing,” He replies, rubbing his eyes. “Are you alright? It’s 2:30.”

    “Oh, yeah, I’m great,” Thea lies, forcing a small laugh. Sam doesn’t look like he believes her, but she presses on. “Just heading to the kitchen, glass of water, you know.”

    “Then I’ll join you,” Sam says, taking another step towards her, and Thea’s heart feels ready to burst from her chest.

    “No!” Sam looks taken aback. His usually laid-back demeanor is uneasy. Thea gulps, fingers coming back up to twist into the chain of her necklace. “I mean, no, thank you. I also left something, um, downstairs, in my, my office so really, you should go back to bed. Need some rest.”

    She forces a laugh, but Sam only sighs, running a hand over his face. “Show me.”

    Thea swallows the bile rising in her throat and tries to steady her breathing as he follows her to the elevator. No more words are spoken as they walk down the hallway past the garage, Tony’s lab, and enter the medbay. Thea takes the key from around her neck as they enter the tiny back office. He crosses his arms expectantly as she unlocks the drawer.

    The locket nearly slips from her trembling hands, so Sam takes it instead, and Thea can’t find it in her to protest. He opens it, and closes it almost right after, staring at Thea with wide eyes.

     “What...the fuck?” Sam whispers, and Thea feels her eyes burn with tears. “Is…is that-”

    He struggles to get the words out, and Thea lets the first tears roll as she nods. Sam silently sets the locket back in the drawer and shuts it. “Who?”

    Thea takes a deep, shaky breath. An understanding seems to have grown between them, though Thea isn’t sure she wants him to voice it out loud. She squeezes her eyes shut to try to block out the semi-horrified look on his face.

    “It’s my son’s.”

                                                              -

    Thea swears Sam to secrecy, but he only agrees on the condition that she’ll tell the team as soon as she can.They return to their separate rooms, Thea with the locket clasped securely about her neck. Sure she won’t be able to sleep, not now, not when someone...two someones now know her secret. She opts instead to perch in the bay window of her bedroom, staring out over the city. Thea loses exact track of time as she immerses herself in thoughts, and the sun shines high above the city when FRIDAY’s voice reaches her ears.

    “Dr. Triplett, Boss wishes you’d join the team in the living room, please.” 

    Thea, habitually, tightens her fingers around the key, and now the locket as well. Quickly, she changes from her sleep shirt into a pullover and jeans, opting to head downstairs barefoot. As FRIDAY had said, the entire team is already spread out across the living room. Tony rises to his feet to guide Thea to sit next to him before clearing his throat.

   “Birdbrain said you had something to tell us, but I knew if you’d kept something from me it must be serious,” Tony explains, and Thea finds herself nodding. “Didn’t want to uh, make you feel under any more pressure with a conference room.” 

    Thea nods, hesitating. She takes the beat of silence to look over everyone, feeling almost as if it was the day she’d arrived. Wanda is curled up to Vision, Natasha and Steve taking up the rest of Tony and Thea’s couch. Steve’s sat forward, elbows rested on his knees, already intently listening. Bucky lingers in the kitchen doorway. Rhodey and Sam, too, are on their feet, and when she meets his eyes, Sam gives her an encouraging nod. The surgeon is unable to voice the truth, not without any leeway. She unhooks the locket from her neck and opens it.

    The moment Thea does this, gasps and murmurs flood the room. After just a few seconds, once she was sure everyone had seen it’s contents, she closes the locket and gently sets it into her lap. Tony is floundering beside her, but Thea speaks first. 

    “That is my son’s heart,” She croaks, a little surprised at the brokenness of her voice. She finds herself meeting Sam’s eyes as she speaks, as she hadn’t even explained it to him last night. 

   “He was stillborn and...I didn’t handle it very well.” Thea continues. She thinks Rhodey mutters an ‘obviously’, but he’s quickly shushed. A sob builds in her throat as she talks, but she fights it. “My brother was there...he um, he had some medical training as well, he...he took out the heart for me, and I healed my son’s body so they wouldn’t suspect anything. He’d never had a heartbeat to begin with s-so nobody said anything. His body was cremated. A year later, my brother died. He was the only person who knew about...about Philip’s heart.” 

   To Thea’s shock, Natasha reaches out to grab her hand. With her free hand, Thea swipes at stray tears. When Thea looks over at the other woman, Natasha is watching her with a knowing expression. Vision’s voice cracks the moment in two. 

    “Pardon me but...where was the father?” He asks hesitantly, and Thea laughs bitterly, to their shock. 

   “Out of the picture. He was a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent I met through my brother but...” Thea shakes her head, reminiscing. “He turned out to be undercover Hydra. Said he only knew me for me but, he read files on me long before he even joined S.H.I.E.L.D.”

    Natasha is nodding in Thea’s peripheral, and Thea recalls in the back of her mind that Nat had worked for S.H.I.E.L.D. in the past. She must have at least some inkling of what Thea was on about. The younger woman pulls her hand back into her lap gently, to wrap both of them around the locket.

    “It doesn’t matter now. He’s dead and irrelevant. But last night, I got a text from an unknown number,” Thea reveals. “It was only one thing but it...it really shook me because yesterday I had looked at Philip’s heart. And then I get that message...‘Funny how the good doctor avoids her powers with friends, but not with family.’” 

   “And your brother was the only person who knew, but he’s...passed on as well, right?” Steve interjects, and Thea nods. “How did Sam find out?” 

    Thea fights a smile. Part of her felt...relief. She hadn’t talked about this with anyone before, and never planned to. Even if the team was finding out now, she was glad to have been able to trust Sam first. She takes a deep, slightly shaky breath before going on. 

   “I had a dream, last night. Or a nightmare, really. I...remembered the day Philip was born. Or, not born, I guess. I don’t know. But the dream and the messages, I was so shaken up and I went to go check on the locket. The key to the drawer it was in is always...” Thea untucks the key around her neck, “but I was so paranoid...Sam caught up with me in the hallway. Had me take him down to show him. I just...I guess I knew it was time to tell someone.” 

    All at once, Thea’s exhaustion hits her. It’s clear to the other’s that she’s finished sharing. Steve, ever the leader, nods sympathetically and reaches over to pat Thea’s shoulder as he stands. 

   “Well, you did the right thing,” He states, and the sentiment is followed with murmurs of agreement from the team. “Especially with this...unknown person messaging you.”  

    “He’s right, DT,” Tony says, speaking for the first time since Thea had sat down. He’s risen to his feet as well, already rubbing his hands together. “In fact, give me your phone. I’ll see if I can’t figure out who’s behind this.” 

    Thea agrees, though she left her phone in her bedroom, and Tony tells her not to worry. After Thea promises to bring it down to the lab ASAP, the group disperses. Nat pulls her aside with a surprisingly kind smile as she makes towards the elevator. 

    “Philip for Coulson, right?” The redhead inquires. Thea smiles back, a little embarrassed, but she nods. 

   “He was one of the one’s who rescued me as a kid,” Thea elaborates as she presses the button for the residential floor. Nat nods, but she’s suddenly bumped by Sam as he slips into the elevator with Thea. 

    “Sorry, Nat!” He calls out as the doors close. The man spares the buttons a quick once over, but evidently they’re going to the same place. Sam settles in beside Thea without pushing a single one’ she tries to ignore the fact that he’s comfortable enough to stand so close their elbows brush, despite all he’s learned of her. They exit the lift together, not engaging in conversation, but he walks her all the way to her door near the end. Right as she goes to enter, he coughs. Thea turns back to him with a raised brow.

   “I know that couldn’t have been easy for you,” Sam tells her. It’s a redundant statement, but the soft quality to his voice prevents Thea from being annoyed. “Steve was right though, because we can...you know, we can help you now.” 

    Thea bites back a scoff as she pushes open her door and walks inside. True to her instinct, Sam follows. 

    “I mean with the texts, of course. ‘Cause that’s some creepy shit,” He hastily amends. “Although...I do know a little about PTSD.” 

    This has Thea stopping in her tracks. She turns around, arms crossed, to meet his eyes again. Sam’s face wears a strange look she can’t read, but she raises a brow as nonverbal permission to go on. 

   “If you ever...wanted to talk to anyone. Not like, a shrink. Like a...a friend.” He’s nervous, Thea realizes, as he scrubs a hand over the back of his neck and shifts his weight. Despite the tightness gripping her heart, Thea gives him her most appreciative and reassuring smile. 

   “Thanks, Sam,” She says. He nods, more to himself than anything, and turns to leave as Thea turns back to her dresser. As she picks up her phone, she gasps. “Sam?!” 

   His footsteps almost echo as a new bout of queasiness washes over Thea. She doesn’t hear what he says as she stares at the screen, barely registering him so close to her as he takes a look. 

UNKNOWN NUMBER You know who it is. Return to

the place it all began, for it

is the place that all ends. 

#sam wilson #steve rogers #wanda maximoff #tony stark #colonel james rhodes #rhodey #vision #bucky barnes #mcu #marvel fic #mcu fanfic #mine #tgd/carolmaximoffs

[roswelldetails]

Episode 203:  Good Mother

Sorry so late this week!! I had a deadline for work that kept me away from this early in the week, and Tumblr has been mean tonight. Kudos to @tasyfa for helping me with some of the transcripts while I was stuck working!!

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Determined to regain control of her life in the aftermath of Noah’s death, Isobel (Lily Cowles) makes a risky choice despite its potential consequences.  Meanwhile, Alex (Tyler Blackburn) and Michael (Michael Vlamis) work together to unravel the mystery surrounding the night Nora’s (guest star Kayla Ewell) spaceship crashed in 1947. Elsewhere, Liz (Jeanine Mason) makes a surprising confession when Cameron (guest star Riley Voelkel) shows up looking for answers about Max (Nathan Dean).  Heather Hemmens, Amber Midthunder and Trevor St. John also star. Jeffrey Hunt directed the episode written by Deirdre Mangan & Carina Adly MacKenzie (#203.) Original airdate 3/30/2020.

DETAILS:

Aliens in the crash are always portrayed as wearing all white.  

There's also a silvery gleam on the faces of Nora and Louise following the crash.

Harlan Manes (first introduced in the alien autopsy scene in 1x07) and Hector Valenti (first mentioned in the pilot by Jesse Manes, but visually introduced here) are shown as having both a partnership and a difference in perspective, with Hector being more sympathetic to the aliens from the start - it mirrors what we know about Jim and Jesse's relationship.

Mysterious alien figure in white hood (probably played by Nathan Parsons, but unlikely to actually be Max (see @latessitrice meta) touches Nora's shoulder and she looks pained, then attacks and burns Hector alive, before disappearing into thin air.

Nora is shot in her shoulder.

Liz sent Alex to find Michael at the cave. 

The pods "regenerate cells at the same rate as they degrade" keeping them in stasis.  The theory of the electrical current is that it will speed up the regeneration so instead of stasis, Max might improve.

Searching for info about Nora led Alex to a sophisticated firewall, which meant that someone was trying to hide information about her.

Jenna's fake energy drinks are called "Speed Demon"

Mimi DeLuca says she was "nowhere" (and then she looks up at the stars). She was wearing the same nightgown and robe as when she disappeared (white...like the aliens in 1947), but instead of bare feet, she had on a pair of elaborate blue and white cowboy boots 

Jenna told Sheriff Valenti that Mimi recited the plot from the film Starship Troopers during the car ride into town "like she lived it", with all the voices, but did not provide any information about where she’d been.  Sheriff Valenti implies that this is typical behavior from Mimi.

Michael says he's been parked at the pony for a few weeks.  Maria says that Mimi was gone for a month. That means that another 2 weeks have passed. (I.e., Max has been dead for 6 weeks now.)

Maria says that they found her mom on I-40 (by the Roswell sign).  Also in 2x01 Rosa indicated that she and Liz were on I-40 when they saw Flint - Rosa put together that it was the most direct route to Area 51...however, I-40 does not go through Roswell.  In fact, it is over 100 miles from Roswell to I-40 (north on 285).  However, it is the most direct route to Area 51 from Roswell.

Isobel points out that Mimi DeLuca waking up in the desert with no memory is similar to what happened to her when Noah took over her body.  Michael doesn't believe that they are the same situation though.

Rosa is about to drink spiked coffee when Liz brings her the art supplies.  After Liz leaves, she pours it out without drinking it.

Isobel is packing up all of the photos of her and Noah (most look like vacation photos).  She hesitates on the photo of them with Max at the wedding that we previously saw in 2x01 at Noah's funeral.

Isobel's baby is now 7 weeks (consistent with the other time frames) and is now the size of a blueberry.

Isobel drinks the rest of the alien death serum and immediately gets cramps/pain in her womb.  And then Max's hallucination appears.

Isobel tells not!Max that she has been microdosing with the serum for weeks (2 weeks, based on the timeline) and it hasn't worked.

Not!Max does tell her to call Kyle (i.e, her subconscious knows she should, but she's not listening).

Michael tells Jenna that Max is in Mexico (at first).

Mimi is "hydrated and healthy" and she never felt unsafe.

She thinks she was only gone for a night, coming to see Maria when Jenna found her.

Maria asked Mimi whether Jenna lent the boots to her and Mimi declared they were hers

Liz is surrounded by monitors with alienesque symbols on them (or maybe just The Science!) See photo:

When the alarm sounds Liz looks at her computer screen and reacts - likely a security camera.

When Alex arrives at the Bunker and sees the binder left for him, the computers are on and there is a map showing.  See photo: 

I tried to figure out what city it is on his computer screen, but no luck. If anyone figures it out, send me an ask & let me know & I'll blast it out!

The 3-ring binder left for Alex, which looked approx. ¾ full with paper documents, was marked on the front:

CAULFIELD * A4N

352-6553 NMG

The text was white on a dark green background that appeared to be a printed label that had been affixed to the front of the binder. The body of the binder was light grey, with a partially shaded circular diagram in the lower center of the front that appeared to be part of the binder itself rather than a later addition like the label.

The Post-It note left on the binder for Alex said, "What side of history do you want to be on?"

There was also a marking on the spine of the binder: CF-143-3453-C78. This is probably a file or record reference, with CF standing for Caulfield. The reference would be visible when the binder was housed on a shelf, allowing easy identification.

When Alex flipped open the binder, the visible portion of the top page read as follows:

HEADQUARTERS

509th BOMB GP (NH)

ROSWELL ARMY AIR FIELD

ROSWELL, NEW MEXICO

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Forwarded.

A07-06 (95)                                8 JULY 1947

AFTER ACTION REPORT

Serial

[blacked out text with underscoring] [TOP SECRET stamp]

From:        Lt. Colonel Payne Jennings, Roswell Army Air Field

Subject:    Engagement with enemy combatants, recovery of unidentified craft, night of 14-15 June, 1947, twelve casualties.

[offscreen] is a fine that concerns the events and

[offscreen] following the discovery of a flying saucer,

To:        Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force

[offscreen] dentified rancher notified

[offscreen] [blacked out text] that he found the instrument on

[offscreen] operations were coordinated with

[offscreen] with the intent of detaining or

[offscreen] while assisting in the inves-

[offscreen] reached the crash site

[offscreen] ing object’s entan-

[offscreen] balloon. Ship

[offscreen] of foreign

[offscreen] place

Liz explains The Science to Jenna:

"3 years ago I hypothesized that if I introduced a rare protein to destroyed stem cells they'd regenerate.  And I was right. My team in Denver brought dead cells back to life. Rat cells, but, I mean, still, the applications are immeasurable… until our study got shut down.  They said it's for ethics reasons, but I think it's because it threatened big pharma. Then a few weeks ago, Kyle found that the pods contain a sort of alien cousin to my regenerative protein.  When Max healed Rosa, his electric charge amplified the process. If we can replicate that, then, we can accelerate his recovery, so, I am testing out pig hearts to see…" discussion about pig hearts/human hearts/different kinds of smart…

Liz says she has a few hours before she has to "record the electromagnetic charge interval"

Jenna says that Liz reminds her of Charlie.

Charlie used to rant about gene therapy

Jesse says he requested no visitors until "his brain starts to follow his orders".

He keeps periodically hitting the morphine drip with Alex in the room, though he was ignoring it before Alex got there.

Jesse describes the opening scene of the episode. And then tells Alex "Tripp was never the same".

Rosa's art:

Among the quotes on her collage are:

Body drie up from ...

What did she say

You're no listening

Control her Take her power

I am the Mesa the mighty

Nothing but a muddy trickle

You can't hold us

Sandia

Between them... Damn... One day she'll…

East

Rosa hears Max call out to her (while awake) "Rosa! Help! You're the only one!"

Jenna says that her dad brought her and Charlie to Roswell when they were kids.  That they were obsessed with the crash and aliens and the X-Files and it was the perfect trip.  It's why she came to Roswell after leaving the military.   "It was like trying to go back in time, somehow."

"Time Travel really messed with you.  I am eight years older than my older sister.  She used to be my hero. She was kinetic, disruptive, cool.  Now that I'm an adult I'm pretty sure she's bipolar, and she needs help.  And if I try to save Max I'm letting Rosa twist in the wind, so, hence the wine ready in my drawer."

Maria is going through a box labeled "Mom's Stuff" in the Pony when she sees Rosa.

"I'm turning into my mom.  I lost time at the gala...Michael's hand...I'm seeing things!"

What Valenti says about Noah's death:

"The M.E., Dr. Holden, listed Noah's cause of death as cardiac arrest due to lightning strike. (note: cardiac arrest = heart attack.  Same way Max died.). No other abnormalities were listed. But that's not consistent with the crime scene photos. You see these ligature marks on his wrists and ankles. …. These marks are consistent with zip ties.  And these with struggling against police-issue handcuffs. Like Max's.".

Isobel blames it on their sex toys.

What Max said to the grocery clerk "¿Tienes carne sin preservativos?" (Meat without a condom).

About Max's nightmare:

"You remember when I used to come in and sleep on your floor?"

"You used to have a nightmare.  You were alone in a cold, dark room and there was something… You couldn't get up.  You were…"

"Chained to the floor.  I'd wake up all freaked out and run to your room."

Rosa's nightmare:

"I need your help, Rosa."

"Look, I'm not gonna help you die.  I have been drinking so that I don't dream."

"I know that."

"It's like you're getting stronger. I hear you now when I'm awake."

"You're right.  Something is making me stronger. I feel things. That's why I'm calling for you.  Something is wrong with Isobel. Even in the pod I sense it. She's dying. Please."

Liz thinks that Max was able to reach out to save Isobel because the electricity is making him stronger in the pod.

Maria confessed to her mother that she had thought she might be getting sick too, Mimi said Maria would not get lost because she was protected, and reached for the resin pendant with the anti-alien pollen flower that Maria was wearing as usual. When Mimi seemed to go to sleep, Maria removed the necklace and placed it on her mother. 

Flashing back to the night of the crash, Nora seems to be tying down the tarp on the back of the truck when Tripp approaches her.  He feigns an offer to assist her and then grabs her and orders his men to move in so that they can take her and the truck back to base.  Louise appears and black-canary-screams to push them away (sound waves, I presume). She is shot in the stomach/chest. Nora pulls her into the truck and drives them away.

The newspaper clip Michael found is dated October 12, 1948, two days before Nora was captured. 

Newspaper transcript:

Last scene - Nora is clearly driving the truck with her powers, as she has both her arms around Louise. They approach a cabin and we're introduced to Roy Bronson, who offers to help.

Roswell Town Fair Charms Locals and Tourists

Photo caption: Smiles abound demonstrate a good time had by all.

Saturday Festivities Drew Healthy Crowds

Second column under photo:

...well as celebrated hometown war heroes, and, of course, Mrs. Benjamin Booker (Carol) whose strawberry Chile pie has won the Roswell Pie Contest four seasons in a row.

Children delighted in activities such as sack races.......

Top of 3rd column:

...ice creams.

Meanwhile the annual pumpkin chunking contest was the main attraction as expected! Pumpkin chunkers arrived from far and wide with their pumpkins and their pumpkin-lurching apparatuses. The prize for best pumpkin chunked went to the Long Family. Their farm foreman Roy Bronson credited his friend and neighbor, a young woman who declined to be named, for the Long's pumpkin chunking victory.

When asked what he'd do with the prize money, Bronson declared that he would "purchase ingredients (for his lady friend) to cook up a nice pumpkin pie".

MUSIC:

Dame - Holy Moly

Tommee Profitt feat. Fleurie - Hurricane

#roswell new mexico #rnm season 2 #good mother #rnm 203 #long post #episode details

[writingbymel]

Syndicate - Part 4

Author’s Note: Part 4 is here! Also, I’m working on other imagines/writings at the moment so stay tuned. 

Date Posted: 11/06/2019

Summary: After discovering the identity of the new vampire hunter in town, Y/N and the gang have an idea to investigate the situation. Things don’t go to plan when the hunter is a lot more prepared than they all thought. 

Pairing: Klaus Mikaelson x Reader

Word Count: 2,000+

Parts: SYNDICATE MASTERLIST

“You thought you saw me die Y/N,” Sami says. “Cause that’s what I wanted you to remember.”

“What do you mean what you wanted me to remember?” I ask her angrily.

“I compelled you to forget,” Sami responds handing me a cup of blood. “You were human at the time and I was able to compel you to forget.” I push the cup away from me.

“How come I didn’t remember when I turned?” I ask.

“I had the help of a witch,” Sami tells me sitting down across from me. “She made sure you wouldn’t find out.”

“Now why would she help you?” I ask.

“She didn’t want me to kill her family of vampires,” Sami tells me fidgeting with her hands.

“Sami how can you be killing your own kind,” I plead.

“We’re monsters Y/N,” Sami says. “We shouldn’t be allowed to roam free like this it will only hurt more people. Just think about all the innocent humans who have been hurt since the original vampires. Thousands probably millions.”

“Vampires were once innocent humans too,” I continue.

“Emphasis on once Y/N,” Sami states. “You once hated them too, Y/N. I can’t believe you’re one of them now. All high and mighty by Klaus’s side of all people. Remember when you tried to kill him?”

“You know I had no choice,” I tell her.

“Or did you?” she replies with a smirk.

“You didn’t, did you—?” I start.

“Compel you to stab an original vampire? Maybe I did, maybe I didn’t,” she laughs. “It was for your own good Y/N he’s a terrible person. He was changing you.”

I speed over to Sami pushing her against the wall, “You had no right.”

“I wouldn’t do that Y/N,” Sami says pushing me off her onto the ground. “Don’t you remember I’m older than you?” In a swift movement, Sami pins me on the ground and ties my hands together.

“God Sami I thought we were friends,” I struggle against her grip.

“We were before you got involved with them,” Sami responds. “Now you’re going to make great bait.” Sami shoves me onto the couch. “Stay there and don’t move.” She reaches for my phone in my back pocket and disappears out of the front door.

“Are you kidding me,” I whisper to myself attempting to wriggle out of the ropes around my wrists. They were way too tight. I sigh sitting back down on the couch hoping someone come helps me soon.

Klaus’s POV

“Don’t you guys think Y/N has been in there for a while?” I ask worriedly attempting to listen inside the building. All of us stood outside of the inn waiting for Y/N to leave.

“We all know Y/N can handle herself,” Damon says staring at the door to the inn. A girl with long blonde hair walks out of the front door. “That’s her that’s the hunter.” We all immediately crouch down behind some shrubs.

“Do you think she saw us?” Elena asks.

“Doubt it,” Caroline replies.

“I think all of us coming looks highly suspicious,” Damon says.

“Well no one wanted to stay behind,” I point out. “It looks like she’s headed towards the Grill.”

“Me, Bonnie, and Elena will head over to the Grill to check it out,” Stefan states. “Klaus, Damon, Caroline, and Leo stay here.”

“But I want to go confront the hunter too,” Caroline whines.

“No one is confronting anyone,” Stefan replies. “We’re only going to be looking at her from afar.” Stefan, Bonnie, and Elena head off into the direction that the hunter went.

“That’s it I’m going inside,” I state angrily. I march off to the front door before anyone could stop me. I hear Leo and Damon follow me from behind. I quickly compel the front desk lady to let us in. We come face to face with a locked door.

“I got it,” Leo says. He uses his strength to pry open the door in a swift movement. Damon and I raise our eyebrows at him slightly impressed. “Hey just because I’m glamorous doesn’t mean I can’t be a kick ass vampire too.” As we rush inside we see Y/N tied up on the couch in the living room. I rush over to her.

“Who did this?” I ask tearing the ropes from her wrists gently.

“Sami,” Y/N responds feeling her wrists. “Thanks guys,” She pulls us all in for a hug. I feel my heart beat in my chest. I was hoping no one could hear, but the look Leo gave me after we all pulled away told me otherwise. “but let’s get the hell out of here. I feel like I can smell vervain in the air.”

Y/N’s POV

“Nah uh Y/N, we are not leaving before we investigate this room,” Damon says rifling through a bunch of papers on the coffee table. “Leo go be our lookout.”

“Aye aye captain,” Leo says. I roll my eyes at him laughing slightly as he makes his way to the door.

Klaus moves to the small kitchen area looking through the drawers. I walk over to him to help him look. “Wow Sami sure has the collection,” Klaus says. My eyes follow his to the drawers filled with wooden stakes.

“It’s like the girl is planning to kill the entire vampire population,” I say sadly.

“How are you holding up?” Klaus asks pushing some of my hair behind my ear. “I know how close you and Sami were.”

“I found out she was the one that compelled me to stake you that night all those years ago,” I say avoiding eye contact with Klaus. I open one of the kitchen cabinets to reveal a whole bunch of vervain plants.

“I knew you were compelled Y/N,” Klaus states. “I knew that never in an eternity you would ever try to harm me. Look at me Y/N.” I sigh turning around to look at him.

“I don’t know why I ran Klaus,” I say tears welling up in my eyes. “I was just so scared to face you and your siblings after what I had done. I was just this silly human that you guys took in and turned. And for me to betray you like that. I just couldn’t face you.”  

“Yet here you are,” Klaus says. I let out a huge sigh.

“Look Klaus, I—” I start. Damon walks into the kitchen holding a journal.

“Woah am I interrupting something?” he asks.

“Actually—” Klaus starts. I quickly interrupt him.

“No nothing at all,” I say my voice an octave higher from embarrassment. “Whatcha got there Salvatore?” He opens the journal to show me the contents inside. Klaus walks over to get a better look as well.

“Miss Sami here has a list of all the vampires in Mystic Falls,” Damon says.

“Where did she even get this information?” I ask angrily.

“Beats me,” Damon chuckles. “But oh dear Y/N and Klaus it gets better.” Damon flips to another page in the journal. “She has names of vampires in over 30 cities.”

“What the actual hell,” I say.

“Lucky for us though she has a number scrawled on the inside of the cover,” Damon shows us the number and a name underneath it that read “Katerina.”

“No it can’t be,” I say. “They never knew each other.”

“Well there’s only one way to find out,” Damon replies. “But let’s get out of here.” Damon takes a few photos of the pages in the journal and sets it back on the shelf he found it. We all make our way back to the Salvatore house where we met up with the rest of the gang to give them the bad news.

—

“Alright so it’s quite simple really Y/N,” Katherine smiles widely. “I’m going to flip a coin and decide who I want to go the dance with more.” Once again Katherine was toying with the feelings of two guys like she always did.

“Doesn’t it bore you pretending to be a high schooler every century?” I ask filing my nails. I look at myself in the mirror, another host body I didn’t recognize, but would make do for the time being.

“Doesn’t it bore you switching appearances all the time?” Katherine fires back. “Don’t you miss being able to just be yourself?”

I throw my pillow at her, “Shut up, Pierce.” She throws it back at me with more force, but using my vampire speed I quickly move out of the way.

“Someone has adapted to vampirism well,” Katherine smirks.

“Well it has been about half a year now,” I say.

“I wish I could’ve met what real Y/N was like,” Katherine says. “She seemed fun.”

“Katherine I’m no different than ‘real me,’” I tell her. “I just look different.”

“I don’t get why you’re running from Klaus,” Katherine mentions. “You and I both know the guy is head over heels for you. I highly doubt he even cares that you tried to kill him. If you just explain to him that you were forced to all would be well in KlausY/N world.” She throws her top off switching into a bright red evening gown. “Now are you sure you don’t want to come tonight?”

“I’m 100% sure,” I state. “I’m not in the mood to party. You know I’m still getting over the trauma of attempting to murder my ex-boyfriend.”

“Come on Y/N,” she pleads. “For me? I need someone to keep me from going crazy tonight.”

“Fine, but just because I know how crazy you get at these things,” I reply. She squeals in excitement and forces me into a light blue dress. As we made our way into the gigantic mansion, I am attacked by the loud noise of music and chatter. Katherine scans the room for her date only to be interrupted by Damon Salvatore.

“Fancy seeing you here Katherine,” Damon says smugly. His eyes travel to mine. “And you are?”

“This is —” Katherine starts.

“Penny,” I say coming up with a fake name quickly.

“Right…” Katherine trails off. “Penny…Anyways Damon I would love to chit chat but I have two hot dates waiting for me.”

“Some things never change,” Damon mumbles. “Care for a dance Y/N?” His sentence catches me off guard. How did he know?

“My name is Penny,” I repeat. He laughs at me extending his hand to me.

“Y/N you are a really bad actress,” Damon says. “Plus you never take off that bracelet not very clever if you ask me.” I take his hand to the middle of the dance floor.

“I guess I should be more careful with that,” I sigh in defeat letting Damon lead because I couldn’t dance for my life.

“Hey just so you know,” he leans in to whisper in my ear. “Klaus is here tonight.”

I quickly pull away from Damon. “I have to leave.” I rush to the front door only to collide with someone in the midst of the large crowd. “I am terribly sorry…” I look up to see Klaus staring down at me.

“Sorry love,” Klaus states grabbing my hand. I quickly hide my left hand adorned with the bracelet behind my back.

“It’s quite alright,” I reply. “But I really must get going.” I run off before he has a chance to stop me.

—

  “Katherine?!” Elena shrieks. “Didn’t she run off into hiding?”

“That doesn’t mean she can’t have a telephone number Elena,” Klaus says laughing slightly.

“Big bad hybrid has a point Elena,” Damon declares.

“So let’s try calling the number already,” Caroline states.

“Is that a safe idea?” Stefan asks. “The hunter is still on the loose. Shouldn’t we take care of her first?”

“Hello who is this?” Damon asks holding his phone up to his ear. Stefan groans at his brother’s impulsivity. “Oh Katherine it’s me Damon. Okay yeah yeah. We want to know how you know our dear hunter friend Sami.” Damon hangs up the phone. “Katherine is coming back to Mystic Falls.”  

#klaus mikaelson #klaus mikaelson imagine #klaus mikaelson x reader #klaus x reader #klaus mikaelson x y/n #the vampire diaries imagine #the originals imagine

[stressedasalways]

Not Like The Movies (2/8)

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Words: 4.1K

Summary: Today was just a bad day.  The simple mission had gone south. What started as an easy data extraction ended with you clutching your side trying not to bleed out.  And who should come to your rescue but the reclusive Avenger himself.

Warning(s): swearing, mentions of blood. All the Fluff

AO3 Link  

Tumblr Links: Masterlist  Part 1 Part 2 Part 3  Part 4  Part 5  Part 6  Part 7 Part 8

A/N - Can I just say THANK YOU.  The love, comments, messages, follows, kudos, likes....THEY BLEW ME AWAY.  I never expected my little one shot to get so much attention and all the responses fueled me to just write write write this week.  I am already working on part 4/5 currently, and plan a few more after that. So please, keep the love coming.  It fuels my writing monster <3

Since you were still stuck to a form of a sponge wash - gross - to avoid your stitches for a few more days, you were still in the bathroom trying to feel a semblance of normal. A whole two hours after you had come in originally. You felt you were working out more of a sweat then you were actually cleaning off yourself.

“Agent L/N. Sergeant Barnes is at your door.” F.R.I.D.A.Y seemed to cheerfully tell you. You knew it had to be your imagination but the AI seemed almost as excited as you.

“Let him in. Just let him know I'm just finishing up in the shower and will be right out.”

“Of course.”

You could feel your heartbeat racing. Even though he had just been here last night when you got discharged you were beyond excited he had taken you up on your offer for another hang out session today.

You threw your hair up, there was not much you could do for it. There was really no sense in trying too hard. You were in sweats and a t shirt anyway, and the man had literally seen you bleeding on the floor. Anything above that was an improvement.

You quickly opened the bathroom door and jumped out. Seemingly trying to catch him snooping around your apartment. But he was just standing in the living room with his eyebrows raised at your dramatic entrance.

“What was that?” he looked at you like you were crazy.

“I was trying to catch you in the act of snooping around.” you answered as if it was the most obvious answer.

“So let me get this straight. You thought by jumping out of the bathroom where I already knew you were. You would catch me. A spy. No…. THE spy in the act of spying.” you could see the twinkle in his eyes and nothing gave you more joy than knowing you were the cause.

“Well when you say it that way…” you trailed off as you made your way to the couch.

He was quick to follow suit and sit down right beside you.

“So how was your Avenger filled day?” you asked giving him your full undivided attention.

He snickered but still entertained your request. “Pretty quiet actually. Nothing on my docket so spent most of the day just working out.”

“Okay. Question time. Where? I mean I admit I was never a gym fiend even before my untimely shooting. But no one ever saw you at the gym.”

“You keeping tabs on me doll?”. God it killed you when he called you that. The charm just oozed off of him and you wanted nothing more than to soak it all in.

“Are you going to pretend you didn't use your Avenger or spy powers to look into my file?” His smug face cracked for only a second but you saw it. “Oh my god! You did didn't you?”

“Well I mean I had to do all the paperwork...So it required added notes to your file, and maybe I glanced at a few sections.” he tried to rationalize but you both knew he was full of it.

“We are adding that to the bargaining list!” you pointed at him with fake anger.

“I feel like I'm always going to owe you on that list.” he snickered.

“Your instincts are accurate. But for now. You at the very least owe me an answer since I don't have access to spy on your records to get it.”

He put up both hands in defeat. “Yeah yeah. I tend to workout in the smaller gym that's upstairs. Sometimes when I can't sleep I may go down to the main gym when I know it's empty.”

So again the gossip and rumours had been true.

“But why?”

“Y/N, you are amazing. Your optimism is contagious. I wish everyone in this compound was like you.”

You could feel your face twisting into confusion. You really didn't understand where he was going with this.

“I'm the Winter Soldier. A lot of people still aren't comfortable with that.”

“Were the winter solider " you corrected, "But you're an Avenger. This is the Avengers compound. I mean if anything you have more right to be here than almost everyone here. And why should you have to use the smaller shittier gym. I mean maybe it's not shittier. I wouldn’t know since I’m not worthy of seeing it. But since even you called it smaller it's obviously not the better gym, and if anyone needs to keep up his strength its the freaking super soldier.” you were rambling but you couldn't help it.

He smiled at you, “It’s okay. I have things I need to atone for. Using the smaller gym is a very small price to pay.”

“Is that why you’re not really around? I mean people only see you at work things. Never outside of them.” He shrugged in response. “Isn’t that lonely?” you whispered.

“I choose my circle carefully. And I am quite happy with the people I have chosen.” He made sure to make direct eye contact with you then. You still weren’t sure how getting shot had somehow led you to being in his orbit. But god dammit you were so happy it had. You gave him your best smile while trying to not let you eyes water.

“So what did you do with your paid leave day?” he asked giving you both the out you needed from the seriousness that had overtaken the room.

“Well...I slept in which was pretty damn glorious if I do say so myself. I had a rainbow bagel droned in fresh from the city for breakfast. Still warm I may add. Stark does have amazing machines at work-”

“- he is going to freak out when he realizes.” he laughed, his hand covering his mouth.

“I resent that accusation! I am merely taking advantage of the gift he offered me.” You grabbed your tablet off the coffee table in front of you, quickly unlocking it and handing it to Bucky. “That’s Buzzfeed’s list of 100 foods you must have in NYC.”

“And you have handed me this list why?”

“Because this is what you and me must conquer.”

As Bucky quickly scrolled down the page he saw the rainbow bagel you had mentioned. Suddenly what you were saying became crystal clear.

“You aren’t?” he laughed

“This is no laughing matter Bucky. This is what will make me feel better and will make my life easier. I already ordered dinner for us from the steakhouse at number 78 and the cheesecake from number 34. It should be here in the next 10ish minutes”

“I can’t help but notice you said for us?”

“Well of course. It’s no fun to eat alone. This also makes me feel better.”

“And?” Bucky asked, seeing the mischievous light in your eyes.

“And…” you continued with a devilish smirk on your face. “If Stark were to find out and disagree with my reasoning that this is all needed for my health and well being. It would help to have an Avenger on my side.” you raised your eyebrow at him, “We are bargaining here Bucky.”

Bucky could not hold in his laughter. It came from so deep within his chest that he had to hold his flesh hand to his stomach to help from doubling over. Your smile only grew wider in response.

As if on perfect cue two drones flew in from your open window, depositing bags on your kitchen counter before leaving from the window they came in from.

“So? What do you say? Added to the list?”

When Bucky looked back at this moment he would always remember it as the time he knew he was putty in your hands. But at the time he managed to keep his cool.

“Added, only cause these foods look really good, and quite honestly I think you’d give Stark a run for his money and probably won’t even need me.”

“Excellent. F.R.I.D.A.Y can you please add that to mine and Bucky’s list.” you said with a wide smile as you got up to open the bags of food. “Can you please list the current agreements”

“Of course. One - Sergeant Barnes will do the life crushing paperwork since you got shot. Which by all accounts has been completed in full. Two - You will get to take advantage of Sergeant Barnes’ jacuzzi when medically cleared. Three - Sergeant Barnes will join you in your quest to eat Buzzfeed’s 100 top NYC eats. Three-point-one. Sergeant Barnes will protect you from Mr Stark if and when he finds out and gets upset.” F.R.I.D.A.Y quickly rattled off the current list.

“You. Did. Not. Just. Do. That” Bucky was in shock beside you. He had gotten up to help set up dinner but had stopped dead in his tracks as the AI had said the list out loud.

“Oh, Bucky. You have so much to learn about me.” and for once you could not help yourself and booped his nose with a smile before moving your eyes and solely focusing on putting out the dinner so you couldn't see his reaction.

________________________********************************________________________

This was how the next few days went. Bucky would do whatever it was that Bucky did during his days. But after work he would show up at your apartment, you’d laugh, joke, flirt and eat ridiculous food while watching something equally as silly on the TV.

Bucky had a list of TV shows and movies he had wanted to see, and you were more than happy to join him for some of them. At least the ones you deemed not boring anyway.

You had been discharged from the medbay for a week and today the nurse was joined by the doctor.

“Everything is looking great. I’ve put some fresh steri-strips on your wounds but that's me just being extra cautious. I can clear you for normal showers and away from full rest. We won’t start PT for a little while yet. But it’s time for you to start walking around, stretching out and getting your energy levels back up.”

You jumped up and hugged Dr. Reynolds. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

He laughed and awkwardly loosened you from around his neck. “Drop by in a week so we can take another look and see how you are feeling. Of course we are always here if you need anything, but I think we are done here.”

As soon as the Doctor and the nurse left you blasted your music, you couldn’t wait to shower...no walk...no shower...it was all just too exciting.

You looked at the clock, it was still early. So a shower it was. And oh my god real clothes. You couldn’t wait.

Bucky showed up at your apartment as usual and the AI now just unlocked the door for him. It was really insane how quickly you had integrated into each others lives.

When he walked in he stopped dead in his tracks. You were just a few feet away, posing for him with your hands on your hips and a goofy smile. You were wearing fitted jeans and a top that hit just the right places. Your hair was finally washed properly and styled how you usually liked it. You’d even taken the time to throw on some simple makeup. You did a ridiculous twirl.

“Look Bucky! I’m not the shot blob anymore. I am a clean dressed human being ready to spread her wings and see the world!” you cheered.

“And where in the world would you be wanting to spread those wings to this evening?”

“F.R.I.D.A.Y, if you don’t mind.”

“Agent L/N has added item number four to the list if Sergeant Barnes agrees.” The AI spoke to them both.

“I really don’t understand why you keep this all so official doll.” He laughed

“Because if it's not official then it's not official Bucky.” you state as you motion for him to let the AI continue.

He sighed at your silliness but as always gave in. “And what is item number four F.R.I.D.A.Y?”

“Y/N would like and I quote ‘to be given a tour of the golden magical restricted areas the cool kids aka the Avengers hide that the little people are never allowed to see’ end quote.”

You quirked your eyebrows at him. “I got the all clear from the doc to start walking around, and since I haven't been given the all clear for being submerged in the jacuzzi I figured this would be fun. Besides you already know all about how I live, I think it’s only fair you return the favour.”

“You are absolutely ridiculous you know?” he said with a laugh. But coming from him it was always filled with the emotion of a much deeper confession.

“I know.”

“F.R.I.D.A.Y I accept item number four...Shall we?” and he held his right arm out for you to wrap your arm through.

“Always such a gentlemen Barnes.” you smiled as you jumped over and quickly linked your arm with his.

You skipped. Actually skipped as you pulled him along to where the Avengers private access elevator was.

“I think you may be thinking way too highly about what you are walking into here.” he laughed as he elongated his strides to not be dragged by your bouncy steps.

“Impossible. I don't believe for a second the area where Tony Stark has a room when he’s here is anything less than the amazingness I am picturing in my head.”

You finally let go of Bucky’s arm when you got to the elevator. You stopped in front of it mimicking the opening of the door with your hands while you looked to him to do whatever he needed to do to make the door open.

But he didn’t do anything. You looked around in confusion as the doors opened all on their own.

“But...wait...huh?”

He snickered at your response as he lightly pushed you in.

“Where’s the retinal scan, the voice scan, the DNA scan, the laser beam verification? Are you saying I could have just come on up at anytime?”

“When we are not in any jeopardy and at a low security level F.R.I.D.A.Y is in charge of access. So since she knows I am here, she opened the door.”

The ride was quick, and as the doors opened you were still going on about the security.

“So your saying I could have hid behind say a planter and just waited for an Avenger to walk by and the door would have opened and I could have just snuck on up?”

“No. Definitely not. You know F.R.I.D.A.Y better than that.” he laughed as you now walked into the Avengers common room.

It took you a second to get out the jokes you were sending Bucky’s way and realize you were in the oh so secretive golden floor. It was exactly as you expected it to be. Grand and glorious.

“You are a dirty liar Barnes.” you smirked as you skipped off to the open concept kitchen that was closest to where you were.

You opened up the fridge and freezer making comments on everything you saw. No cupboard or pantry went unchecked and commented on and Bucky just followed you with a goofy grin on his face.

You came across a machine you had never seen before. The top was digital but below it looked like a beverage dispenser.

“What is this?” you started clicking on the display when it became clear it was a full service beverage maker. Smoothies, frappuccinos, specialty coffees and teas, mixed cocktails. It could do it all.

You looked back at Bucky with your jaw practically on the floor.

“I want to marry this machine Bucky.”

“I don’t think the world is ready for the machine/human relationship doll. But feel free to make yourself a drink.”

You dramatically placed your hands on your cheeks, your mouth wide open. “So many choices.”

“Well I’m sure you can work your way through them”

“Are you saying this is not a one time invitation to the golden floor?” you asked innocently.

“I would certainly hope not.” he whispered back.

You bit your lip, this flirting game was always pushing you to the edge. But in the end you knew you had to let him lead this. But damn he made it feel like flirting warfare.

“Can I make you something?” you asked him.

“I can make my own, you don’t need to serve me.”

“But I want to push the buttons Bucky. Don’t take away my fun!”

And just like that the unspoken tension was broken by his laughter.

Next you ran over to the common living area. It had a huge sectional couch along with very comfy recliners all facing towards an obnoxiously large TV.

“Oh my god! Why were we watching movies on my tiny TV when you had this?”

“Because you were on strict rest. And when I even joked about getting you a wheelchair to leave the room you threatened me with bodily harm.” he laughed.

“Well that's just unfair. I didn’t have all the information.” You pouted as you took turns sitting in every seat.

Once you had tested every seat and ‘oooh’d’ and ‘awww’d’ you got up and rubbed your hands together. “Where next?”

He led you down one of the hallways. There was a door in the middle as well as at the very end. He walked to the very end and the door opened automatically.

He let you in first as you took in the space. It was a very gorgeous living room. There were pictures and art on all the walls. It was not what you had been expecting at all. The whole compound was very modern, but this, this felt like a home. You quickly looked at him for permission but saw nothing but encouragement in his eyes.

You walked to the closest wall taking in what was in the frames. There were older pictures, faded and discolored around the edges. But the faces were impossible to miss. They were old pictures of Bucky and Steve.

“Look at you two.” you whispered to no one in particular as you went from picture to picture. There was something so pure and innocent. You could see it in his eyes. Pre war, pre serum, pre soldier.

Before you could move on you were interrupted by the sound of the main door opening and Steve Rogers walking in.

“Hey Buck…..oh….I’m sorry didn’t know we had company.” he stopped in his tracks when he saw you.

You looked to Bucky and then back to Steve. You felt like a literal idiot because you had no idea what to address him as.

“Cap?” you squeaked out

He smiled at you, “Steve is just fine. Nice to see you up and about Y/N.”

“Of course. Steve. Yeah I just got the all clear to do some walking around today, so Bucky was gracious enough to offer - “

“-forced.” Bucky said behind a fake cough.

You looked at Bucky with complete shock. “Offered.” you again challenged as he snickered before you turned back to Steve. “As I was saying, offered to show me around and get me moving. I apologize, I didn’t mean to intrude on your personal space. We only just got here so my tour guide had yet to mention you guys lived together.”

“You could never intrude. Any friend,“ you heard Steve stutter on the f word but you all pretended to not notice. “of Bucky’s is more than welcome to our place. From what I’ve heard he’s made himself quite at home at your place. So it's only fair for us to return the favour.”

“Is that an official invitation Steve?” you asked and Steve could sense the private joke between you and Bucky.

“Be careful Stevie, she takes her official things very officially.” Bucky chuckled.

Steve smirked at the two of you, “Yeah, that’s an official invitation.”

“Excellent.” you smiled. “Steve, did you have any plans for dinner tonight? I was just getting ready to order in.”

“Oh,” Steve looked at Bucky, “I wouldn’t want to intrude on your guys plans.”

You cut in before Bucky could respond. “Absolutely not. Besides I have a feeling you will really enjoy what I have in mind.”

An hour later the drones arrived.

“No” Steve whispered is disbelief. “I know that smell.”

You smiled at the two friends as you went to open up the massive bags.

“Are these from Coney Island?” Bucky asked hopefully.

“Of course. Only the best for my friends and for my health.” you snickered

“Your health?” Steve asked as he started to help unloading the large amounts of food.

“Oh Steve, it's probably better if you don’t ask. It just makes you an accomplice like me. But doll.“ He paused, looking at the food. You had clearly ordered with two super soldiers in mind. There were dozens of hot dogs and corn dogs along with crinkle cut fries and who knows what else, “There is no way he’s not gonna notice this.”

You raised your eyebrows and mouthed ‘worth it’ as you watched Steve’s face light up with his first mouthful. Bucky smiled before jumping in himself.

Dinner had been amazing. You could sit and listen to Steve and Bucky talk about their childhoods forever. There was so much history and love there. It now made total sense why the two of them had chosen to share a common space rather than be completely separated.

You had seen Bucky be light and carefree. But this...this was just another level.

“Geez Louise look how late it is.” Steve suddenly said taking you out of your thoughts.

“Geez Louise?” you mocked right back at him.

“Hey now, its not nice to mock an 100 year old man.” he shot back at you.

“But that's literally my entire relationship with Bucky, what else would we talk about?” you laughed. Bucky lightly flicked your arm while briefly sticking out his tongue.

Steve shook his head, “Well regardless this old man needs to hit the sack. But feel free to stay up. You don’t have to head down on my accord.”

“I appreciate that Steve, but honestly I’m a bit tired myself. Hole through my body and all. Today was a pretty exciting day and I’m starting to feel it.”

“Well have a great night. And thank you. For….well all of this. I haven't had this much fun talking about the past in a while.”

“You’re very welcome. I can't wait to do it again.” You smiled as he gave you a larger smile in return. He slapped Bucky on the shoulder roughly before making his way to what you assumed was his room.

“Come on doll, I’ll walk you back to your place.” Bucky said as he got up and helped pull your chair out.

He held out his arm again and just like hours before you linked yourself to him. Although this time you were no longer skipping, but hugging him tight to your side, the exhaustion from the day starting to hit.

“I never got to see your room or the shitty gym or the famous tub.” you jokingly whined as you leaned your head against his shoulder.

“Well that's what next time is for.” he whispered back as you made your way out to the Avengers common area.

As you walked by you didn’t see that Sam and Natasha were watching from the living room as you two made your way to the elevator.

By time you made it to your door you literally could not wait to hit your pillow. Your heart suddenly began to flutter. This was a moment. You were standing outside your door. It was so cliche, but damn….This would be the perfect time for him to give you a goodnight kiss.

“Thank you for a great night Bucky.”

“I always feel like I should be thanking you more than you should be thanking me.”

“Agree to disagree then.” you smiled.

This was it. You could feel it. He hesitated a moment before leaning in and...giving you a big hug.

You squeezed tight. For now this would just have to be enough. The hug went on a bit longer than it probably should have, but when you let go there didn’t seem to be any awkwardness there.

“Hangout again tomorrow?” you asked, only slightly embarrassed how your voice gave away some of your desperation.

“Of course. But make sure you rest up. I think we may have done too much today.”

“I promise. Night Bucky.”

“Night Doll.”

And there it was, that doll that always made your knees go weak. Whispered seductively just before you headed to bed. Damn you Bucky Barnes.

Part 3

TAGS:  @waaaaaaitwhat  @i-think-i-am-adorable  @quierdoofthestars

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes #bucky barnes imagines #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes au #bucky barnes x reader fluff #my writing

[ludoxi-blog]

Best digital photo frame 2018: Show off your favourite photos

The biggest complaint some people have about digital photos is that you never get to see them. Some make it to a photo printer, others to a sharing site or social media feed, but many end up sitting on a cloud storage service or a hard drive, unappreciated and never seen. Where the old prints might have ended up in albums or sitting in a frame on the mantelpiece, their digital successors never get their time in the spotlight. Digital photo frames have fallen out of popularity, but they’re actually a great way to bring your shots out of storage and into the home. What’s more, the best models are a vast improvement on the dull, awkward to use early frames of a decade ago, with brighter screens, smarter power-saving features, better interfaces and even – in some cases – Wi-Fi and cloud connectivity, so that you can publish photos direct from a PC or smartphone to your frame. Go on, get your stills back on the mantelpiece where they belong! How to buy the right digital photo frame for you What about the new smart displays?

Amazon, Google and Lenovo are all promoting new smart displays that play music, control smart home appliances and answer questions, much like their smart speaker cousins. The difference is that these displays can show you answers, web pages and videos – and also double up as a digital photo frame. Amazon’s Echo Show devices can play a photo slideshow from the Amazon Photos cloud photo-storage service, while Google’s Home Hub can play photos direct from Google Photos, which is where your shots tend to end up automatically if you use an Android phone. For this reason, they make excellent digital photo frames, although you’ll pay a fair bit more for them than for a stand-alone frame.

How much do you want to spend? And how big a frame do you want?

Choosing a digital photo frame is fairly easy; work out your budget then decide what size you need and whether you’re willing to pay for extra features or WiFi connectivity. What’s more, the best frames tend to come in a range of sizes, usually starting in the 7in to 8in range and moving up to 10in and beyond, with some models going as big as 18in. Whether you’re looking for something to place on a shelf or something to hang on the wall, you’ll have a few options. Just be aware that not all frames have a traditional 4:3 aspect ratio, with some smaller frames opting for a 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratio which is great for landscape shots, but not necessarily so good for portraits.

Will my photos look good on any digital photo frame?

Beyond size, you also need to think about screen technology and resolution. Some models use the kind of Twisted Nematic LCD screen technology found in budget tablets, laptops and monitors, often resulting in low levels of brightness and contrast and narrow viewing angles; not ideal for something you’ll rarely look at precisely head-on. Others have moved to IPS technology, giving you much wider viewing angles and a brighter, more colourful image. More saturated colours isn’t necessarily a good thing – some frames exhibit the kind of brash, unnatural colour balance you’d normally find on a bargain-basement telly – but ideally you want something with a little punch.

As far as resolution goes, expect some mild disappointment. Digital photo frames lag behind tablets and smartphones when it comes to pixel density, and 1,024 x 600 and 1,024 x 768 screens are the norm even on larger models. Luckily, this doesn’t matter so much when you’re usually looking at a 7-inch to 10-inch display from several metres away.

How do you get your photos onto it?

This is the next big differentiator. Some have internal memory, and you transfer photos over a USB connection. Most now have an SD or micro SD card slot and read photos directly from the card. Others have a USB port for plugging in a USB memory key. However, a growing number now have built-in Wi-Fi, connecting to your home network or a cloud-based service, where you work through a Web-based interface to upload files. The great thing about this is that you can transfer files from your PC or your smartphone, not to mention popular picture-sharing or social networking services. You can even send photos to your frame while you’re away on your holidays. These models are even adding social features, enabling you to send photos through to friends or relatives while you’re travelling or just making the most of life.

Is there anything else you should look out for?

Many frames have additional features, including clocks, calendars and video and audio playback. Most recent models also have motion-sensing and other power-saving features, so that the frame isn’t using energy when there’s nobody to see it. It’s hard to find a frame without slideshow features, and the more flexible these are the better. A clear user-interface is clearly helpful here, making it easy to get photos on the device, add them to playlists and control how they look.

How much do I need to spend?

Frames start at under £40 with the larger 15in and cloud-enabled models reaching price points between £150 and £200. Inevitably you’ll pay for sheer size and extra features, but you can get a great frame for well under £100 as long as you’re prepared to compromise on one of those two.

The best digital photo frames to buy from £50

1. Apeman 8-Inch Digital Photo Frame

Price when reviewed: £50

                        If you’ve got reasonable expectations and a £50 budget, you won’t get much better than this Apeman-branded 8-inch frame. The 1024 x 768 resolution is perfectly adequate at the size and colours are surprisingly clean and bright, making your pics look good even from an angle. What’s more, it has slideshow, photo, full-screen clock and calendar functions, it will play high definition videos and you can keep the time and date showing unobtrusively in the corner.

The design is more functional than fancy, with a single screw-in leg that keeps the frame propped up, but there are no garish logos, the controls are kept simple and the software is basic yet easy to use. You can’t expect wireless connectivity at this price, but with an SD card slot, USB and mini USB ports, you won’t have any problems getting photos on it, though the mini USB seems rather dated. The only other real annoyance is the lack of auto-rotation; you’re better off rotating any shots taken in portrait mode yourself before transferring them to your card or USB memory stick. Still, with a bundled remote and wall-mounting options, this is otherwise a fine entry-level frame.

2. Nixplay Advance 10-inch: The best 10in digital photo frame for around £100

Price when reviewed: £110

The Nixplay Advance range goes all the way from 8 to 18.5 inches, but the 10-inch version is particularly brilliant value, giving you a 10-inch, 4:3 ratio IPS display with a 1024 x 768 resolution. It’s a simple, well-built frame, standing on a bulging section at the rear where the power, USB and SD card sockets sit, along with a headphone/audio line out. The latter might be useful because the Advance’s party piece is 720p MPEG-4 video playback, complete with tinny sound from the built-in speakers, and you can cleverly mix video and stills within the same photo slideshow. While it hasn’t got the wireless connectivity or cloud capabilities of Nixplay’s pricier Seed series, the clean interface makes it easy to set-up slideshows once you’ve transferred your shots to the bundled 8GB USB thumb drive. There’s even a nice clock and calendar function if you’d like both overlaid. Most importantly, the Advance makes your photos look good, with natural colours, impressive depth of tone and cool transitions. If you’re just after a great way to present your favourite shots, this is the frame to buy.

3. Nixplay Seed 10: The best all-round digital photo frame

Price when reviewed: £170

Like its stablemate, the Advance, the Nixplay Seed does a fantastic job of showing off your photos, with better clarity than you’d expect from a 1,024 x 768 screen, and superb, lifelike colours. The IPS display has wide viewing angles, and there’s a depth of tone here you won’t find in many other digital frames. The Seed goes further, however, thanks to its superb Wi-Fi and cloud connected features. You can transfer photos wirelessly and set-up playlists, drag and drop shots from Google Photos, Instagram and Flickr or even send photos to your frame straight from an iOS or Android smartphone app. Beyond this, Nixplay offers basic photo-sharing and social messaging features, so that you can share photos instantly with Nixplay-owning friends or family. And while Pix-Star’s frame works with awider range of cloud photo services, Nixplay has the cleaner, more intuitive UI, making it easier to use these functions and customise slideshow timings and transitions. Throw in a great design, with a thick USB cable that functions as a stand, plus a choice of colours, and the Seed is the photo frame to beat.

4. Nixplay Iris: The best traditional-style digital frame

Price when reviewed: £170

If you want a showcase for your digital photos but prefer the look of a more traditional frame, the Nixplay Iris has you covered. Available in bronze, silver and copper finishes it looks like an old-school frame from the front but has the innards of the Nixplay Seed, giving you the same impressive image quality and natural colours, plus identical wireless features for transferring photos. You can still sync the frame with your social media and cloud accounts to make sure you have your latest shots on full display, and Nixplay even throws in 10GB of cloud storage space for you to use. Meanwhile, the sound sensor turns the frame off when nobody’s in the room. Otherwise, those with Alexa devices can turn it on and off with voice. You’re paying 10 to 12-inch prices for a small-ish 8-inch screen, but this is the best high-tech frame that doesn’t look high-tech.

Amazingly, you can get a smart display that does more for less than you’ll pay for many frames. Google’s Home Hub has a 7-inch 1,024 x 600 screen with rich and accurate colours and a superb automatic brightness control that makes your shots look like prints in a normal frame. It works in tandem with Google’s existing Photos app and storage service, and because it’s smart you can just ask to see photos from your recent holiday in Cornwall or your trip to Scotland, and the Home Hub will find them and put them on show.

What’s more, you get YouTube Video playback, Google Music and Spotify music and all the benefits of the Google Assistant, answering questions, telling you the temperature and letting you know what you’ve got scheduled for the day.