#but he is a huge softie and a great teacher and so so caring | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

pagesfromthevoid · 1 year

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Darling, Don’t You Cry | j.m.

Joel Miller x fem!reader

Only you have shown me how to love being alive.

Word Count: 8.4k (ahahah)

Warnings: Canon violence. Mild SA mention (nothing explicit). Murder. Mentions of being drugged and kidnapped, hunted by people. Softie Joel.

Author’s Note: I…don’t know what came over me. Might I recommend listening to Darling by Halsey as you read?

Talk to Me! | Read on AO3

1993 —Austin, Texas

Two years after Tommy joined the military; two years after Sarah’s mom left

“I can’t stay,” she argued, shoving clothes into a suitcase.

Joel stood in the doorway, arms crossed, but made no move to stop her. “Can we at least talk about it?”

She scoffed, shaking her head. “Now you wanna talk, Miller? I’ve been trying to talk for months.”

Joel heaved a sigh, running his hands over his jaw. “I know —I’m sorry, okay? It’s complicated —,”

“You think I didn’t know that going into this?” She asked, turning to finally look at him. “You think that I didn’t know how hard this would be, between you having a baby and a wife that just up and left? I knew it would be complicated, Joel.”

“Then I don’t get why you’re leaving,” he pressed, finally stepping into the room. “You’ve lived here your whole life —,”

“I’ve lived here since I was fifteen,” she countered, looking at him with annoyance. “And have had feelings for you since I moved here.”

“Don’t say that,” he warned, crossing his arms. “You’ve had plenty of boyfriends; shit, you dated Tommy.”

“Oh my god, when we were sixteen,” she groaned, throwing her hands in the air. Then she stopped, taking a deep breath to calm herself. “You wanna talk? Let’s talk. I got accepted into a great program in Seattle. I have deferred that acceptance for two years to help take care of Sarah since Tommy left for basic, under the condition that I would go when he got home.

“Just because you have been dancing around whether or not you have feelings for me doesn’t mean I don’t know what I feel. And it damn well doesn’t give you the right to tell me I cannot go.”

“I never said you couldn’t,” he countered, reaching out to take the shirt she had in her hands. “I just —what’s so special about Seattle that you can’t have here?”

“My family is there. That’s what’s in Seattle, Joel. And a damn good aerospace program that wants me. Do you not get how big a deal that is?” She stared up at him, frowning deeply. “I have spent years being told I wasn’t good enough by every fucking teacher I’ve ever had —and now Boeing fucking wants me. I can’t keep blowing them off. Tommy comes home tomorrow, and my flight is booked for the day after. If I don’t go now —I won’t ever go.”

They stared each other down for a long time, Joel’s eyes pleading with her to stay. But she has spent the last two years helping take care of a child that wasn’t her’s, deferring an acceptance that never should have been deferred, and loving a man who couldn’t decide what he wanted. There were a million reasons for her to go; she just needed one good one to stay.

But she knew he’d never give her that reason.

“Tell me why I should stay, Joel,” she finally demanded, looking up at him with tears in her eyes. “Tell me what I know you want and I’ll stay.”

“Darlin’, I can’t —,”

“Don’t call me that,” she snapped, pointing at the door. “Just…just get out of my house, Joel.”

She watched him turn and leave, taking her heart with him.

2003 —Austin, Texas

Two weeks before the outbreak

“When are you gonna let me take you back out?” Tommy asked, leaning against the bar.

The dive bar wasn’t terribly busy; just a handful of people that knew she was back in town for a few days. Boeing was working with Johnson Space Center in Houston on a new project and she was sent down to work with the teams at NASA. It felt a bit surreal, being the lead on such a huge project.

She’d been back a handful of times since moving back to Seattle; mostly to visit Tommy and other friends. Life got busy, things changed, and it was never easy to just hop on a plane and visit. But now, with this new program, she was going to be settling down in Houston. Austin was a bit of a trek, but she missed her friends and time heals all wounds.

“We’ve been down that road, Miller,” she reminded him with a teasing grin. “If I recall, you cheated on me with Danielle.”

“And Noelle. And Gina.”

She looked up from the bar at the familiar voice, turning around to see Joel sauntering in with a soft smile on his face. Leaning back against the bar, she lifted her beer in greeting.

Maybe time didn’t heal all wounds.

But it sure as hell made the heart grow fonder.

“Joel Miller, as I live and breathe,” she greeted, though remained seated. “Still out here ruining Tommy’s life, I see. Didn’t know about the other two.” She gave Tommy a pointed look, but there was a grin on her face.

“Someone’s gotta keep’em humble,” Joel answered easily, taking the empty seat beside her. “How long you in town, darlin’?”

If he saw her flinch at the nickname, he didn’t react.

“Austin, a week,” she explained, lifting the beer to her lips. Her eyes dragged over his face, taking in every little change she’d missed in him. “Houston, at least a year.”

He raised a brow, sitting up a bit straighter. “Moving back, then? Seattle not cuttin’ it?”

“Seattle is just fine,” she countered, turning back in her seat to face the bar. “I’m working out at the Space Center, with the shuttle program. Lead engineer.”

“Shit,” he chuckled, shaking his head as the bartender handed him a beer of his own. “That’s impressive.”

She just shrugged in response, smiling behind her beer now. It was easy to fall back into it with Joel; like no time had passed at all. But that’s how it always was. Joel was an easy friend to make, and an even easier person to fall for.

What started as a stupid crush on the older neighbor boy had turned into so much more —ending just like she expected it would. Him not realizing she even existed until she was old enough to make a move herself, and by then he had a little girl and a wife. And even when his wife up and left, Joel couldn’t make up his mind about what he wanted from her.

“I’ve always been impressive,” she teased, glancing over at him. “Not my fault you’re blind in your old age.”

Joel scoffed, taking a swig of his beer. “I’m almost certain you and I are barely five years apart.”

“Feels like decades.”

They fell into a silence as the bar started to liven up, people wandering in and getting the party started. Her fingers fiddled with a bracelet on her wrist —one that Joel had given her the first Christmas she spent with him and Sarah. She couldn’t find herself parting with it; as much as she knew she should, she just couldn’t. The charm —a single star —was loose and she tried tightening it while she fiddled.

She stole a glance at Joel, who was looking at her with a small frown on his face. He reached over, taking her wrist without a word to fix the charm himself. His touch on her skin lit a fire that she had to put out immediately. She couldn’t keep looking at him; refused to. The look in his eyes reminded her of the one he gave when she left.

And she couldn’t fall for it again.

“I gotta get home,” she announced, hopping off her barstool. “My dad is waiting for me; promised I’d stay with him while I was in town.”

Joel nodded once, looking away from her finally. “Don’t be a stranger; Sarah’s soccer season ended so she’s home in the evenings. Doubt she remembers ya, but I’m sure you remember her.”

It was a subtle dig; a reminder that she had left and tried her damnedest not to come back. But she wouldn’t let him see how it bothered her, giving him a polite smile.

“I’ll try to stop by.”

Both of them knew she wouldn’t though.

2003 —Somewhere in east Texas

One month after the outbreak

“You sure that’s the address?” Joel asked, looking up at a building.

Just like most places, it seemed abandoned aside from a handful of looters trying to get whatever they could. One of the many luxury apartments of Houston, left to the elements and whatever else found its way into the building.

Tommy held out a worn out piece of paper to him, the ink faded from being folded over so many times. Joel took it, looked it over a few times, before he cast his gaze up.

“We gotta get to the eighth floor then.”

“Leave it to her to live on the fuckin’ top floor,” Joel grumbled, shaking his head.

“If she’s even there,” Tommy reminded him, looking up at the building.

He glanced at his brother, frowning deeply as Tommy fell prey to the thought that she was dead. Tommy was the one to assume the best; to assume she was alive.

Joel assumed she wasn’t.

It was easier to assume the worst than hope for the best.

Trekking up eight flights of stairs was living hell, given that at any moment someone —something could attack. Guns drawn, backing up stairs to cover each other…it was something that the two had grown used to doing over the last month. But silence enveloped the building, and by the time they made it to the top floor unscathed, things seemed…fine.

“Apartment 818E,” Tommy reminded him, motioning for him to follow down the hall.

Joel had an uneasy feeling as he peered into open apartments, checking for threats. It seemed that looters hadn’t made it up eight flights of stairs, leaving many of the apartments alone. But it was too quiet; too easy. Nothing in this new hell was easy.

Tommy stopped, standing in front of a closed apartment door. The numbers were eschew, like someone tried prying them off. But the door was unlocked when he reached for it, gun drawn. Joel followed close behind as they pushed open the door. And it was like walking into a memory.

Everything was covered in a thin layer of dust, but it was clearly still her home. Pictures on the walls, books stacked on the coffee table. Dishes were still in the sink, and the upturned faucet suggested that the water had been running when she left. Joel stepped through the living room, glancing over the photos that littered the space.

But he stopped in front of one —staring at him through dust and cobwebs. It was a photo of him and Sarah, right after Sarah’s first birthday, not long after his ex left. He remembered that day; she had insisted on taking a new family photo because fuck her, who needs her? And when Joel tried to argue that Sarah needed her mother —she reminded him that Sarah had her, and did he.

There was a photo next to it, one he didn’t remember taking. Tommy had his arm around her shoulders, and Joel had his around her waist. The photo was snapped as she looked up at Joel —like she was caught staring at him instead of smiling at the camera. It was right before Tommy had left for basic, at his going away party. She looked up at him like she was seeing the stars for the first time.

And Joel wondered, briefly, how he had been so fucking stupid not to notice.

He lifted the photo off the wall, wiping away the grime. There was a hole in his heart where Sarah was missing; and now another hole where she was too. He glanced at the photo of him and Sarah, taking it down next. Tommy was still searching the house, but Joel was prying the backs of the frames off and taking the photos out. He couldn’t leave them behind.

“Find anything?” He asked, taking a breath to calm himself down. Feelings didn’t mean shit at the end of the world, anyway.

When Tommy didn’t answer, Joel pushed the photos into his back pocket and returned to searching. He found Tommy standing in her bedroom, staring at the floor. Joel’s gaze followed, and even though he had assumed the worst —seeing the blood stains on the carpet twisted everything inside him until it ached.

“Maybe it’s not hers,” Tommy mumbled, kneeling down to look the stain over. Joel was about to argue, but Tommy’s voice cracked as he spoke again. “She was always fighting, she probably got away —,”

“Tommy,” Joel scolded gently, kneeling beside his brother. “Tommy, we need to go.”

But Tommy just shook his head, staring blankly at the blood stain. Joel huffed in frustration, pushing himself off the floor. He’d give his brother a few minutes; let him accept that she was really gone. It was easier that way —Joel had accepted she was dead weeks ago.

He took a moment, looking around her bedroom. It was a mess; like she was in the middle of cleaning up when everything went wrong. Clothes were hanging from her drawers and her curtains were drawn. The bed wasn’t made, with the covers practically pushed onto the floor. The pictures on her nightstand were knocked over from the blankets being thrown, and Joel moved over to set them back up.

Sitting on the nightstand was a worn, silver star. The jump ring was twisted open, and the star itself had a copper tint from being worn down over years. Joel hesitated just a moment before picking it up, looking it over. He’d tried to fix it last month, but she wouldn’t let him get too close. And now, he held the charm in the palm of his hand, throat closing up.

“Tommy, we need to go,” Joel finally decided, trying to keep himself together. “We gotta get moving. She’s gone.”

Reluctantly, his brother stood and rubbed a hand over his face. Then, after composing himself, he and Tommy left what was left of their old life behind.

Joel, however, pocketed the charm.

2023 —Present Day

Somewhere near the border of Wyoming

“Why couldn't the skeleton share the bad news?” Ellie asked, kicking her feet out in front of her.

Joel rubbed his face, groaning as she giggled to herself, holding the joke book. “God, why?”

“Because he didn’t have the heart!”

He hunched over, closer to the fire, giving her an unamused look as he shook his head. “Fuckin’ terrible, kid.”

“You’re just not funny.”

As Joel was about to argue, a gunshot rang out in the distance. Both of them went silent, with Joel smothering the campfire and him pushing Ellie behind rocks that they had taken refuge in for the evening. Joel stayed low, pulling out his own pistol. He glanced back at Ellie, who was peering out from behind the rocks, clutching her pocket knife.

“Stay here,” Joel ordered, giving the girl a hard look.

“But —,”

“No,” he interrupted, pointing at her. “Stay. Here.”

Ellie huffed in anger, but fell against the rock. Joel took a breath, shaking his head for a moment before he began making his way towards the gunshot. Another rang out —then another. The shots were getting closer —too close, and he was readying himself for a fight as he inched closer to the woods.

The sound of snowing and ice crunching under boots was loud enough that it pierced the silence of the night like a knife. Someone was being chased, and Joel feared the worst. There were too many possibilities of what could be running towards him, and he wasn’t about to take any chances as he pushed up against a tree, pistol at the ready.

Another shot rang out, and a high pitch scream came next.

“Son of a bitch.”

Joel blinked, that overwhelming pain in his chest suddenly taking over as he listened. The voice was painfully familiar —older, hoarse, but familiar. He peered around the base of the tree, catching just a glimpse of a woman, holding her shoulder as it bleed into her hands. Her gun lay on the ground beside her.

But it was her.

Twenty years —twenty goddamn years, and there she stood in front of him. Covered in blood —fresh and old —and being shot at in the wilderness of Wyoming. Older too; but they both were. Her lip was busted, bruised and bleeding. But it was her.

He wondered if she had looked for him and Tommy, like they had for her.

“You can’t run,” a voice called from further away. Joel, unable to catch his breath, leaned back against the tree.

“Thought that was the fucking point,” she snapped back, reaching down to snatch her gun back up, pointing it hastily into the woods. Joel couldn’t see where she was aiming. “I thought you were hunting me —prey runs, you dipshit.”

“Didn’t think you’d run so damn far.”

The other voice, distinctly male, emerged a few feet away from where Joel hid. He peered around one more time, making sure that it was just her and him. Her gun turned to her attacker, bad arm tucked into her side as she practically bared her teeth in a growl.

“One more step,” she warned, hand trembling as she held the gun. “And I’ll shoot you.”

“You can barely aim with your good arm, what makes you think you’ll hit me now?”

“Fuck you,” she spat.

“I gave you that option.”

“And yet I still chose being hunted over your dick.”

Joel had heard enough, turning from behind the tree and taking aim. There was no pause; he did not hesitate. He just pulled the trigger and watched her assailant drop like the fly he was. He didn’t stop, though, emptying his clip until the man was a bloody, unrecognizable mess. Even with it emptied, he pulled the trigger several more times as he saw red.

She had whipped around, gun pointed at Joel now. Her movements were sluggish, and she was wincing from the wound in her arm. But he put his hands up, finger off the trigger. Her eyes widened as her hand shook, dropping her gun in the snow. It was littered in blood stains, and Joel thought back to that day they had found her apartment empty.

“Joel?”

Hearing her say his name —after twenty years —felt surreal. Almost like he was hallucinating. How many nightmares and dreams did he have about her? Begging her to stay, trying to find her only to watch her disappear again? He’d forgotten the sound of her voice, how sweet it was —even now, broken and older. But hearing his name from her lips took him back and suddenly he was in the house again, laughing in the backyard with Sarah and her.

He lowered his hands, slipping the pistol into his holster. She stared at him with wide eyes, as if she was seeing a ghost. Joel hesitated, but took half a step forward. She took a step back, breathing heavily as she watched him. It was like she was a feral animal, afraid to let him near.

“Joel!”

He turned at the sound of Ellie’s voice, who was running up on him. When he turned back around, she was taking off back into the woods, clutching her arm and holding her gun.

“Where the hell are you going?” Joel called after her, and she briefly paused —glanced over her shoulder at him —then kept going.

For a moment, Joel considered going after her. How could she just take off like that? But Ellie sidled up to his side, grabbing the sleeve of his jacket as she watched the woman walk away through the snow. Then he decided he couldn’t.

“You know her?” Ellie asked, brow furrowed.

“I…yeah,” was all Joel could muster up saying. “Yeah, I do.”

*****

The remainder of their trip to Jackson was filled with questions from Ellie about the woman in the woods. Who is she? Why didn’t we go after her? Was that your girlfriend? Oh my fucking god it was.

By the time they had called it for the night the first day after seeing her, Joel had given the bare minimum he could to answer Ellie. Admitting anything more would just trudge up memories he didn’t want to relive, and make it harder to not go after her. She clearly didn’t want their help, and he knew well enough that meant she’d fight them tooth and nail to avoid it. It’s what he would have done too. It wasn’t worth the risk to Ellie. Not when they were so close to getting her to Tommy and to safety.

After two weeks worth of walking and finally arriving in Jackson, Joel had tried to forget he had even seen her. There was no reason to tell Tommy; no reason to give him any hope that he had seen their old friend. Tommy had enough going on —with Maria being pregnant, there wasn’t a good excuse to bring it up anyway.

Following dinner —where they enjoyed a meal that wasn’t expired, and Joel thanked God for that —Tommy offered to show them down to the stables. Ellie was overjoyed, ready to interact with any and all animals she could. Joel just followed along as Maria explained the different posts that Ellie could help with if they stayed, all working with the different animals the community raised. Joel and Tommy fell back some, though Joel kept his eyes on Ellie.

“You know, I wanted to wait to tell you,” Tommy started, slipping his hands in his pockets as they both watched Ellie pet the horse in front of her. “But about a week ago, someone showed up at the gate —I don’t think you’ll believe me —,”

But Joel interrupted, whispering her name, before looking at Tommy. The younger man looked surprised that Joel knew.

“How did you —,”

“We ran into her a few weeks ago,” Joel explained, crossing his arms over his chest. “She was…shit, I don’t know. Being hunted. I killed the guy, but she took off.”

“Explains the shitty stitch job she had when she got here.”

Joel just nodded, trying not to think about her stitching herself up in the middle of the woods, alone. Though he had tried hard not to think about the other things she had experienced, alone, over the last two decades.

“She spent a couple nights in quarantine but we got’er set up in one of the apartments in the center. I’ve been checkin’ on her, but she hasn’t said much; didn’t even mention seeing you.”

Joel just shrugged, watching Ellie still. But he decided it was for the best to change the subject; for now anyway. “I need your help, Tommy.”

*****

When she had arrived in Jackson, she was certain that she was going to die at the gate. Her shoulder was infected —not from a bite, but from lack of taking care of it. She had stitched herself together with a dirty needle and thread she had tucked away in an abandoned cabin not far from where Ryan —her attacker —had died. Her supplies were still there when she returned, and she thanked the universe for not fucking her over even more.

With Ryan and his brothers gone, she was finally free from the nightmare she had been living in. Even if it meant dying at the gates of the community she’d only heard stories about…she died free.

But when the gate opened and she dropped to her knees in front of the masked guards, she heard her name being yelled. Frantic, shocked, terrified. But goddamn, she knew that voice.

“Tommy,” she breathed as he froze in front of her. She was covered in blood, worse for wear, and she knew what he was thinking. “I-I’m not infected, I swear, I was shot —,”

“We’re gonna get you to the clinic, okay?” He promised, motioning for the guards to help her up. A dog approached her, sniffing her over for several minutes, before returning to Tommy’s side. “See? Not infected; the dogs can tell.”

He ended up lifting her into his arms and carrying her through the gates. It felt like every part of her was just getting heavy, and her eyes wouldn’t focus on anything around her. But she was with Tommy; she was with someone she knew. And he was safe, and he was there. And when she woke up —if she woke up —she’d tell him she was saved by who she thought was Joel.

“I gotcha,” he promised, “You just gotta stay awake for me. Can you do that?”

She hummed in response, but her eyelids were too heavy and soon, the world had turned to black.

*****

When she woke, Tommy was sitting next to her bed with another woman. They didn’t notice her staring at them through half closed eyes, taking a moment to consider if she was dead and this was heaven. But then, she moved just enough and she gasped in pain. Her shoulder stung, her head ached, and Christ, she was thirsty.

“Hey, hey, don’t move,” Tommy ordered softly, pushing her good shoulder down into the pillows. “You’re just fine; you’re safe.”

She stared at him for a long time, reaching out to touch his face. Twenty years was such a long time, and he had changed so much. Everyone changed, of course. The world was nothing like it was when they were kids, but he was still Tommy Miller; still her friend and the boy next door. And as he touched her hand, she started crying.

*****

After a week in the clinic, Tommy set her up with a small apartment in the center of the community. He tried apologizing for how small it was, but she waved him off, insisting that it was far better than anything she’d experienced in years. When he tried to push for more, she told him she wanted to settle in and that she would tell him more later.

He left it at that, and left her alone.

It was a small space, but it was her space. She had a bed, a bathroom, and a kitchen. And for a very short moment, she thought it was some semblance of normal. But when she got into the shower —washed out the grease and grime and remaining blood from her fight —and watched that faded crimson circle the drain…well, it wasn’t normal. It never would be.

And when she stepped out, feeling cleaner than she had in nearly two decades, she finally saw her reflection. Her lips were bruised and split, with a scar across her cheek to her ear. Bruises littered her skin, enough so that her entire chest and shoulder were completely discolored. The bags under her eyes —not from being hit, shockingly, but from pure exhaustion —made her look sick. Though god forbid, she was incredibly malnourished as it was.

Maria —Tommy’s wife, she had explained —came by with containers of food. She explained she and Tommy led the community, and that usually people ate the mess hall. But of course, no one expected her to right away. She wanted to joke, to tell Maria that she seemed too good for Tommy. But she stopped herself, because how would she know that? The Tommy she knew before the outbreak and the Tommy Maria knew were two completely different people.

By the end of her first week, she was finally finding herself trying to explore Jackson. Tommy had offered to give her a tour, but she told him to go help Maria with whatever she was doing. He had hesitated, but eventually left her to her own devices.

The remainder of her day was spent alone, wandering through the community. People greeted her, and she offered them soft smiles in response, but didn’t linger long enough to talk more. Exploring and socializing were two very different things, and she wasn’t ready for the socialization part of being there yet.

So she wandered the perimeter, counting her steps as she memorized each entry point. Nodded to the guards and thanked them. Then she made her way back around the other way. It’s what she had done in the Dallas QZ; memorized every weak point that she could sneak out of. It was the only thing that kept her sane for the first few years, before she finally managed to get the hell out.

Two twenty-three, two twenty-four, two twenty-five, two —

Her name was called, disrupting her counting, and she froze mid-step. Her name was yelled again, and that same familiar drawl that she had heard in the woods —that she thought she heard.

Slowly, she turned.

Twenty steps away stood Joel Miller, watching her.

She hadn’t been seeing things. It wasn’t blood loss or drug induced hallucinations —Joel was really eighteen steps away from her.

Seventeen.

He said her name again, and she took two steps towards him.

Fifteen.

“Joel,” she managed to croak out as she took three more steps.

Ten.

Eight.

Joel took four more; she took four. They met in the middle, and her arms were around his middle before she could stop herself. His snaked around her shoulders, pulling her into him without another word and she gasped as she started crying into his jacket. Joel pressed his lips to her hair, and she sobbed harder, clinging to him.

“It’s okay,” he promised, holding her close to him. “It’s alright, darlin’. Don’t you cry; it’s okay.”

How many nights did she dream of him calling her that again? Even after she accepted he didn’t want her, that he let her leave —she dreamed of it for years, wishing she could see him one more time. Apologize for leaving, and tell him she missed him. Tell him how she wished she had asked him to come with her, to bring Sarah and they could be a family together properly.

It was too late for that; too late to apologize. To have a family, and a life like what they had before. But he was there, and he was real.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, voice muffled by his jacket. “I’m sorry, Joel.”

He hushed her, promising her again that everything was going to be okay. “C’mon —sun’s setting. Let’s get inside before it’s dark.”

She nodded, letting him pull away. But his touch didn’t disappear, instead turning into him wrapping his arm around her shoulders to lead her back into town. Nobody said a word to them as she sobbed into her hands, letting Joel guide her wherever they were going.

She would have let him guide her to hell if it meant being close again though.

*****

They didn’t actually say anything to one another for a long time. Joel had brought her to the hole in the wall Tommy had given him and Ellie to stay, and when they sat down —she just cried. He didn’t know how to console her, or calm her down. So instead he simply let her cry, and held her while she did so. As Joel held her, he could feel her body shake with sobs. He could tell that she was struggling with something deep and personal, and he didn't want to intrude on her emotions by prying or trying to speak too soon. So he just held her tightly and waited for her to open up when she was ready.

Ellie had come out of her room at the intrusion, no doubt about to make a snarky comment, but Joel gave her a pointed look. It was a warning, and Ellie backed away as soon as the woman let out another broken sob.

But as her crying slowly subsided, and her tears stopped streaking down her cheeks, she pulled away from him. Joel leaned forward on the sofa, clasping his hands together as she fell against cushions. He wondered how long she’d kept herself from crying; how long she buried all those feelings.

“Feel better?” He asked, leaning back now to properly look at her.

She just nodded, rubbing her eyes with the heels of her palms. “I’m sorry —Christ, I’m pathetic —,”

“None of that,” he scolded, but he tried to keep his voice soft.

Ellie peered around the corner, and before Joel could say anything, she followed his gaze to the child. Her brow furrowed, staring at Ellie like she was trying to pick her apart.

“That’s not…,” she trailed off, looking back at Joel in confusion. “Did you…Did I miss you having another kid?”

Ellie suddenly snorted, laughing at her question as she finally joined the two in the living room. Joel gave Ellie a careful scowl, frowning deeply as she sat on the floor in front of the two adults. While he never thought he’d have a private moment with her again, he needed Ellie to not interrupt him trying to figure out what was going on.

“I’m not his kid,” Ellie announced, sitting crisscrossed before her now. “I’m his cargo.”

“Don’t say that shit,” he warned, giving Ellie a pointed look. “You’re not –not anymore.”

“But…she was?” She asked, looking between the two curiously.

“Long story,” was all Joel could manage to say, running a hand through his hair. “I’ll…explain it later.”

She looked between Ellie and Joel for a moment, trying to draw connections between the two before she seemed to give up. Her hands rubbed her eyes again, taking a deep breath as she settled into the couch further. Joel simply stared at her, watching her movements. Her fingers tapped against her thigh, a pattern that he was certain she didn’t realize she was making. Her mouth was bruised, with a split lip that was still healing.

“Why’d you run from us?” Ellie suddenly demanded, leaning forward.

“Ellie –,”

But she let out a huff that sounded like a laugh, and Joel turned his attention to her instead of the kid in front of them. He wanted to know too; wanted to understand why she took off when she clearly knew it was him. She’d said his name, after all. But Ellie was too blunt for her own good.

“I…,” she trailed off, trying to think of her explanation. “Do you want the actual answer, or the less terrible one?”

Joel and Ellie glanced at one another, both frowning now. It was Joel who spoke. “The real answer. Please.”

She nodded once, looking down at her hands for a moment. “I thought I was hallucinating, that’s all. Twenty years –what are the odds of you being in the same stretch of woods as me, twenty years after the last time we saw each other?”

“Fucking slim,” Ellie mumbled, looking between the two.

She gave Ellie a surprised look, as if not expecting her to curse. But she shook her head, returning to her story. “I…I’d lost a lot of blood, I think. And I was drugged. Been running for days without eating or sleeping, so I…I saw you, and I really did think it was you. But then…well, she…” She motioned to Ellie then to Joel, frowning still. “I thought, ‘That’s not Sarah; that’s not Sarah so that can’t be Joel,’ and I…figured I was just hallucinating from the drugs and lack of sleep. It wouldn’t have been the first time, honestly. But then…I took off before I could think straight.”

Joel stared at her for a long time, taking her explanation for what it was. In a fucked up way, he liked the thought that she had been seeing him in her delirious state. Maybe it was wrong; maybe it was the worst thing to think of. But she thought of him, and he wondered if that meant what he thought it did.

“How’d you end up in the woods?” He asked, eyes roaming over the scars that she had picked up over the years. “Sounded like you knew the fucker that attacked you.”

“That’s…a whole different story,” she sighed then glanced at Ellie. “One I don’t think I can share with a kid.”

“Bullshit,” Ellie complained, throwing her hands in the air. “I’ve seen and heard so much worse –,”

“Ellie, please,” Joel scolded, pointing to the bedroom. “I need you to go find something else to do.”

“What the hell am I gonna do?”

“Literally anything. Go.” Joel's voice was stern, and he knew that Ellie was feeling frustrated not being involved. "Ellie, I mean it. Anything else. Just keep yourself busy and stay safe," Joel said firmly.

Ellie rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. "Fine," she grumbled, turning to head to the bedroom.

As she disappeared from view, Joel let out a sigh of relief. He didn't want to hurt Ellie's feelings, but sometimes she was too stubborn for her good, and while he didn’t expect too long a moment alone with her, he wanted her to feel safe telling him what happened to her. And if that meant having Ellie go occupy herself for ten minutes, then he would make it up to her later.

She watched Ellie walk away, waiting to speak until she heard the slam of the bedroom door. She flinched at the sound, closing her eyes for a moment.

“I’m sorry, she can stay out here –,”

Joel shook his head, waving off her concerns. “She’ll be fine,” he promised, moving now to sit closer to her. “Sometimes she thinks she’s more grown than she is.”

“I think all teenagers think that way.”

He thought back to Sarah for a moment; how she insisted on doing things on her own only to realize she needed help when it was too late. It was a teenager thing to do, even in the middle of the apocalypse. The thought of Sarah hurt though, and he shook his head to bring him back. He knew that dwelling on the past wouldn't do any good, especially now that he had part of his past sitting in front of him.

“Talk to me,” he ordered, keeping that same stern but soft tone he gave her earlier. It was easier to move forward; keep the conversation going. Even if it meant talking about her past over his. “What happened?”

She bit at her lip, though stopped herself when she remembered the split and the bruise. Instead she opted to pick at the skin around her nails, trying to keep herself occupied. Joel waited patiently, frowning as time wore on. He could sense her unease and wanted to help, but he also knew better than to push her. He shifted his weight on the couch, leaning forward some, feeling the weight of the silence between them.

“Where do I even start?” She finally asked, covering her face with her hands.

“Why not the beginning?” He suggested, reaching out to take her hand. “Tell me what happened, darlin’.”

She hesitated again, looking at their hands. His were a scarred, calloused disaster. Worn and torn from years of violence and labor. Even before the world had gone to shit, they were worked hard from construction. Joel couldn't help but notice the way she hesitated, her eyes darting back and forth between their hands.

Suddenly, he was overwhelmed with the memory of the last time they touched like this. It was the morning before she kicked him out of her house. She’d stayed the night, having watched Sarah for him while he had gone out to help a friend get their car back and running. It wasn’t the first night they’d spent together, with her waking up in his bed and his lips on hers, lazy in the sunrise. She’d taken his hand, pressing their finger tips together, and asked him if he wanted to talk about her offer to Boeing.

He didn’t want to talk about it then, promising they could later. He remembered her sighing, burying her face back into her pillow even though she still held his hand in hers. He had been avoiding the conversation for weeks at that point —knew he was pushing his luck in her staying with him without talking about it. They hadn’t talked about what had been going on between them; hadn’t put a label to it. She was young and had a life ahead of her. And Joel…well, he was the father of a four year old and too jaded from his ex to put his heart on the line again. He had been afraid to tell her the truth, and by the time she tried to force it out of him, it was too late.

Christ. Had it really been thirty years?

“Joel?”

Her voice broke him from his thoughts, and he focused on her face again. “Sorry, darlin’. I’m listening, promise.”

She nodded again, taking a moment before she finally started to speak. Her free hand ran over her hair as she put into words the last twenty years.

“Uh, so most of the last two decades were in the Dallas QZ,” she explained, “I stopped keeping track around fifteen. Most of my team from the Space Center ended up with me there, and FEDRA had us work on putting the zone together. Guess they thought all engineers were builders –but we basically directed people on how to make shuttles and parts of the shuttle; buildings are completely different.”

“I still can’t believe you were an engineer for NASA,” he admitted, smiling softly at her. “Makes sense since you were always takin’ shit apart and putting it back together, just to see how it worked.”

“I never thought it was an option, but that’s how I managed to get a radio that worked right; I managed to jerry rig something that could pick up on the towers communicating back and forth.” She just shrugged though, looking back down at her hands. “That’s how I found out about this place. Overheard someone passing along the message, and I started to map it out the best I could. I have a shit sense of direction, though.”

“You always did,” he recalled, giving her another small grin. “Remember when you convinced me to drive you and Tommy to Galveston for some concert and you got us lost?”

She smiled, and Joel was certain she was thinking back on it. He remembered that trip well; she’d just turned eighteen, and Tommy was about to head out to basic. They wanted to do something exciting before he left, having asked her parents to watch Sarah for the weekend. Halfway through the trip, she offered to help with Sarah; she hadn’t mentioned getting an offer to go to school in Seattle at that point. He was just happy to have someone who wanted to be there.

He remembered how packed the cab of the truck was, and how she was practically in his lap the entire trip there. At the time, it was like he was suddenly seeing her for more than the girl who hung out with his little brother. She was lively, and excited. Her laughter filled the cab, and he couldn't help but feel drawn to her energy. He wanted to spend more time with her, to hear her laugh and chat his ear off. Even when he realized they were lost as shit, it didn’t matter because he was just content with her beside him. Until Tommy reminded them they missed the concert, of course.

“We ended up there eventually!”

“After the fucking concert was over, a day late.”

“We still got there,” she argued, and Joel appreciated that the memory got her to smile just a little. But it faded as she continued to speak. “I told my team, and we were gonna get out of there. After a while though, it's like…like my team just started to disappear. Couple were killed by FEDRA for breaking rules; two others got sick. Then it was just me and…I figured if I was gonna go, I had to go then or never. Think that was, shit. I don’t know? Three years ago?

“I was fine for a year and half, on my own. Didn’t have a fucking clue where I was going, but I was doing okay. And then…I stumbled on this group of survivors –two women, three men. I offered them some supplies to show I wasn’t there to hurt them, and they told me they were headed here too. So I joined them. That’s…that’s when it got bad.

“Lilla, one of the ladies, got infected and attacked us. She bit one of the men, Travis. Obviously we killed them, and got away. But then, I don’t know, the leader of the group –his name was Ryan, he’s the one that you killed –got this sick idea that hunting people was the best way to survive. His wife agreed, and his brother just went along with it. I thought they were psycho, told them and that’s when…well, they decided it was me they would hunt.”

“What the fuck,” Joel mumbled, brow furrowing as he listened to her. Her hand was trembling now, and he reached out to take both her hands in his now. She closed her eyes, tears falling again as she clutched his hands tight. “Hey, it’s okay. You’re safe now.”

“Long story short, I managed to kill the wife and brother about six months into their stupid ass game; Ryan just kept…he kept finding me. Every time I got away, he showed up. He’d get close enough, get a hold of me –drug me, stab me, whatever he could to slow me down –then let me go again. When you found me…that was, I don’t know, I think the third or fourth time he’d caught me and threw me back out. Like I was some game piece. Then…then you killed him and suddenly, I was free again but I thought I was dying, and…and…”

Finally, he pulled her into his arms, holding her close to him as she started to cry again. Joel’s stomach churned, the thought of her being hunted for nearly two years. He couldn't imagine what she must have gone through, the fear and uncertainty that must have plagued her every waking moment. He had always known that she was strong, but now he realized just how resilient she truly was. Despite the being fucking hunted, she had never given up. He felt a deep sense of respect and admiration for her, and he knew that he would do anything to make sure that she felt safe again. He’d failed her once before; he wouldn’t do so again.

As she cried in his arms, he whispered words of comfort to her, promising her that he would always be there for her. He knew that it would take time for her to heal, to overcome the trauma she had experienced, but he was healing too; he was just as broken as she was. And he wanted to heal with her –with Ellie too. In that moment, as he held her close, he realized he had to keep both her and Ellie safe; that he couldn’t fail them both.

He also realized, then, that he had to continue with Ellie to the university.

Joel pulled back, just enough to take her face in his hands. Tears were in her eyes as she looked up at him, and he couldn’t hold his back anymore. There was hesitation; a fear that lingered before he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers, feeling the weight of all the emotions between them. It was a kiss born out of sadness; trauma. But also one of comfort and understanding. It took a moment for her to respond to the kiss, but when she did, she returned with a fierceness that surprised them both. Their lips molded together, and their bodies pressed closer as the intensity of their emotions heightened. They both needed this connection, this moment of shared vulnerability, to ease the pain of their past.

They stayed that way for a long moment, lost in each other, before finally pulling away, breathless. Joel rested his forehead against hers, his eyes closed, feeling grateful for the connection they shared. As they finally broke apart, gasping for air, she looked up at him with tears still in her eyes. But they were different tears now, ones of relief and hope.

“I have to leave,” he whispered, searching her eyes as he pulled back, taking her face in his hands. “I have to take Ellie to Colorado –there’s doctors there; she’s immune somehow. They…they think they can make a cure.”

Her brow furrowed as she processed what he was saying, trying to understand what he was trying to get at. Her hand fingers wrapped around his wrists, holding him in place. Her eyes dropped, just briefly, on the string around his wrist –to the charm he’d taken years ago. Her tears fell even harder as she realized what it was. “Joel, I-I don’t –,”

“Come with us,” he practically begged, his voice breaking as he did. “I…I can’t lose you again. I won’t. Come with us, and help me get her there. Then we can come back here when the doctors get what they need, and you and I…we can try again; make up for the time we lost.”

She nodded frantically, tears falling over his hands as she started to cry again. He wiped her tears away, pulling her close to rest his forehead against hers once more.

“Yes!” Ellie suddenly exclaimed, running into the room again.

Joel pulled back, though her hands found his to keep him close. “Ellie –,”

“I knew you wouldn’t let go with Tommy!” Ellie continued, throwing her arms around Joel’s neck from behind. “You fucking softie, I knew it!”

One of Joel’s hands reached up, patting Ellie’s arm with a small chuckle. She looked between the two for a moment, a soft smile coming to her lips. Joel looked back at her, unable to help the smile that came to him either.

Maybe they’d be okay after all.

#joel miller #joel miller x reader #joel miller imagine #joel miller the last of us #joel miller one shot

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sevlinop · 2 months

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FF8 party appreciation post

Been obsessed with Final Fantasy in general recently, and especially FF8. Had to share what I love about the rest of the party besides Squall and Rinoa. (They're awesome, but wanted to give the others some attention.)

Quistis: How socially awkward she is, but in an endearing way. Because she was so successful as a SEED from a young age, even more so than Squall, and is very conventionally attractive other characters seem intimidated by her. When she's actually a triple triad fanatic, who doesn't even know how to properly flirt. Still a total badass, and a caring person though. She cares so much about Rinoa's feelings, she's willing to put a mission stake. Not a great idea, but it shows what sweet person she is. In a normal school she would be an incredible teacher.

Zell: Love how despite the tattoos and shonen protagonist schtick, he's actually a huge nerd. Very bookish and well read, tries to follow the rules like in the Dollet mission, lame but in a fun way, and is a mama's boy. He even has a shrine to his grandpa. Also respects women and is supportive of Rinoa and Selphie like in D District when he stands up for them, says he'll protect Edea, or helps Rinoa with Squall's ring. He's similar to Sabin in FF6 or Tifa in FF7 in that he's actually a huge softie despite his appearance. King!

Selphie: How she's presented as initially annoying, but that's only because we're seeing things filtered through early game Squall's perspective. Everyone back at Trabia loves her, and she knows them all really well. She shows up at Balamb and is already making moves, but not in a purely self serving way. Selphie just genuinely loves people, and people love her. Definitely would be the most fun to party with, and the mostly likely to be a celebrity. None of this means she isn't a deep thinker though, as we she when she just casually ponders death on the train in disc 1. Plus she can even fly an airship!!

Irvine: It's actually really sweet how nostalgic he is for the orphanage. Definitely a very sentimental person, and not the type to really want to hurt people despite his profession. When he's not trying to be a pick up artist, he seems like he'd be a great friend. Also comes across as the one who would give very wise advice out of nowhere. And not to mention I appreciate how he overcomes a panic attack, and still manages to do his part in the Sorceress assassination mission.

Anyway, sorry, just wanted to gush. Love these four!

#final fantasy 8 #ffviii #quistis trepe #zell dincht #selphie tilmitt #irvine kinneas #ff8 meta

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cosmicbrowniefan · 2 years

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the losers club as teachers

i just graduated yesterday (ah!) and i’m feeling weird and nostalgic so i’m gonna write this for the losers and picture some of my teachers in their places. hopefully someone in your life comes to mind when you read the descriptions, too!

bill: i think bill is an english teacher, but you could make the argument for him being an art teacher for sure. i think everyone likes bill as a teacher most of the time, he just unfortunately is a fan of homework and that’s the only way he really makes any enemies with his students. bill tries to stick to business and doesn’t get off topic much (unless it’s something else english-related). he also is not really a teacher you’d want to cross, but he’s for sure a teacher you’d want on your side to defend you. he always talks about slacking off in school himself, and he wants his students to do better and value their education more than he did. again, super great guy, his only enemies are because of the work he assigns them.

bev: bev could either be the eccentric art teacher or the eccentric science teacher. i’m not going to definitively pick one, but no matter the subject she’s teaching, she is absolutely the ms. frizzle of the school. bev is great with engaging her students, and i think she’d probably be more prone to wanting to teach middle schoolers rather than high schoolers. she comes up with a ton of fun projects and incentives for her students and loves getting involved in all the school activities she can. bev is 110% the emotional support teacher, and everyone always requests to follow her on instagram, even though they know they can’t until after they graduate.

ben: DEFINITELY the cool history teacher. ben is absolutely the laid back and super approachable and kind teacher that all the kids attach themselves to and can relate to, no matter what kind of social group they come from. he’s not the history teacher stereotype of the guy that doesn’t care and doesn’t teach, he just has cory matthews vibes and knows how to relate his lessons to kids’ lives and help them learn without it being a miserable experience. he will definitely always put his students first and is a friend and mentor to all.

stan: stan is mainly a math teacher but also teaches one or two business/computer classes. kids are definitely intimated of him before they have him, because there’s always rumors going around about how tough he is on students and how much work he assigns and everything. however, once kids actually have stan as a teacher, they LOVE him. he has high expectations for his students, but not necessarily in achievements, just in efforts. if stan seeing that a student is working hard, no matter how much trouble they’re having, they’ll do just fine in his class. he also is a REALLY great teacher one on one, and is there for any student that needs a little extra help. point being, he’s very intelligent, but genuinely wants the best for every kid and is willing to help to get them there.

mike: mike is a gym and health teacher in my opinion, but far from your stereotypical jacked and angry gym teacher that only likes the jocks and ignores everyone else. he is actually definitely more prone to connecting with the outcasts. mike is a HUGE advocate for mental health, and doesn’t put up with anyone’s bullshit. he will call out anyone and everyone when he sees any problems with bullying, and people know not to mess with him. he also has a whole unit in his health classes about mental health, and starts each class with short discussion just to ease everyone in. he does these conversations in his gym classes too. mike is a softie and wants everyone to feel comfortable. as long as a kid doesn’t mess with him or anyone else, they’ll do great.

eddie: he’s totally the drama teacher!! richie could absolutely do this too, but i think eddie just has such a knack for the fine arts that this is where he’d really shine. besides, he and richie are married, so richie helps out anyway. the school eddie works out has a reputation for the best drama program in the area because of how professional and hard-working eddie is. his students genuinely improve every single time they have a rehearsal with him, and it’s all enjoyable for them. he pushes them hard, but his students have no trouble cooperating because they know that, in the end, they’re going to get a fantastic show.

richie: richie is. a kindergarten teacher. i know that sounds like an absolute DISASTER because i’m sure we’re all picturing him riling up the kids, but he’s actually amazing with them. he knows how to have fun and be interactive and awesome with the kids, but he also knows how to get his lessons across. he’s able to draw out the best in every kid and connects with each of them on a personal level. his teaching is so much fun that half the time the kids don’t even realize they’ve learned something. in conclusion, richie is the best fucking kindergarten teacher in existence and every single one of his students comes and visits him again and again.

#it #it 2017 #it 2019 #pennywise #losers club #losers club headcanons #teacher au #losers club au #reddie #stenbrough #richie tozier #eddie kaspbrak #stanley uris #stan uris #bill denbrough #beverly marsh #ben hanscom #mike hanlon #benverly

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rwby-sk · 3 years

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I like the idea of after they save the world, Jaune decides he wants to become a teacher. He's obviously good with kids from his Atlas assignment, and I just want to see Neo's face when she sees him so calm and happy and clearly in his element of caring for others.

I think he would be perfect fit to take over Goodwitch's job. Once Beacon gets a new headmaster (cough Qrow cough please cough)

Jaune is second in command, in charge of student safety and combat training

He's perfect for it

All the kids are scared at first, here comes the great great grandson of some war hero, who also fought Salem herself, clad in shiny armor

But then the upperclassmen laugh it off because Professor Arc is actually a huge softie

He'd have so much patience with kids just starting out

And none for bullies

Assuming Grimm still exist after the finale.

#rwby #jaune arc

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sputnikissweet · 3 years

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Thoughts on “Fate: The Winx Club Saga”

My last Winx related post got good feedback :)!! and i swear i’ll post more on other stuff but there are just some things i wanna get off my chest. this is also lengthy.. oops

also gifs aren’t mine!!!

let’s start off with characters

MUSA

Netflix, do y’all just hate Musa... Her powers are so downplayed. it’s utterly disappointing.

I understand that Musa is the emotional girl out of all of them but they took that and ran with it. I’m just not a big fan of the whole mind fairy thing because every fairy can connect to things that’s based on what kind of fairy they are.

she can do SO MUCH MORE. She can literally control sound waves.. She is Vanya Hargreeves in fairy form yet all she does now is feel others emotions.. cool.

Fairies (regardless of specialties) can also read aura’s and some can connect with their given specialities (Flora w plants) so a mind fairy serves no helpful purpose compared to the others?

STELLA

The reason Stella was popular was because despite being a spoiled princess, she was still the nicest and most welcoming person ever. She never used it against people. ( I mean the Solarians were literally so confused when they were reporting how Stella was evil during Valtor’s reign)

It felt more like Diaspro with Stella trendencies.

Stella was literally the one who convinced Bloom to go to Alfea and was so patient with her. She even had Bloom fake being her friend in the original just so she could attend alfea but this stella willingly put her life in danger.. FOR A BOY???

Yes Stella was a bit boy crazy but she wasn’t really serious with any of them except for Brandon so she would not have tried to kill Bloom for Sky. Who wrote that and for what??

That is not Queen Luna, that’s countess Cassandra 2 seasons early.

Why did they have to give her mom issues like Bloom? Her mom was her emotional support from the little bits we saw her? Her parents not giving her attention on top of upcoming issues with her dad would’ve been interesting enough.

Also the whole ring thing was a major thing and they just touched on it then never again, just don’t mention it then..?

A bit morbid but i think the whole blinding her best friend plot has potential.. hear me out... for her enchantix, especially when she can use the dust. But netflix if you include enchantix, please do not butcher it.. please.

She had such a sunny disposition and it was only ever her teasing that upset the girls at times but she was mostly at the core of each other their problems. She may look exactly how i pictured stella but she is the farthest thing from.

also stella getting her strength from anger? who is this?

AISHA

Please tell me how Aisha would be the teacher’s pet-

She’s the one who literally ran away from a marriage and was breaking all these princess streotypes- She’s very strong willed and would not have kissed ass to authority figures (except for mermaid guards of course)

AISHA WOULD NOT HAVE SNITCHED AND THAT GOES FOR ALL OF THEM I DO NOT CARE

her outfits weren’t bad though, i think she was the best dressed next to Beatrix.

TERRA

Why were they so rude to her-

I still wish she was a WOC because then her brother and dad would’ve been too so just a chance for more representation then netflix just turned a blind eye to

Where did her storyline go- We saw her being insecure in the first two(?) episodes and Musa saying Stella is everything she wants to be and then Riven and Dane just make fun of her for the rest of the episodes then Stella tries to compliment her? I feel like there was so much material to work with and make into a powerful arc or moment but they just swept it under the rug and pulled off something quick.

I like her character though, she’s a huge softie and a lot like her cousin, let’s not hate on her oo much cause Flora would not have condone it

BLOOM

Why is this Bloom so angsty

Actually OG Bloom was too but i feel like they tried making her so seem “mysterious” and if you’re mysterious, apparently you can’t be nicer?

I wish we saw her more vulnerable cause i liked that Bloom was such a badass but always cried HAHAH you know what i mean?

WHY WAS SHE DRESSED IN HER REGULAR CLOTHES WHEN HER WINGS APPEARED PLEASE AT LEAST GIVE HER SMT A BIT MORE FITTING FOR THE LITERAL “ANCIENT” TRANSFORMATION-

Disrespect Vanessa- No.

Okay i think there’s potential in the changeling thing but i think Mike originally finding her in a burning house and saving her is so heartwarming :((

this is related to bloom so i’ll keep it here... WHERE IS DAPHNE!!!

not gonna lie tho, the actress is exactly how i imagined bloom irl

bloomerang... i’ll leave this here.

OTHER CHARACTERS // MISC.

Rosalind and Dowling were two evil and eviler versions of Faragonda. Not even they were just split Albus Dumbledores and one is enough for all universes.

Beatrix is woke ig..? I like her style tho and the actress is pretty good. Also like how by the finale it’s kind of known that she’s a witch and not a fairy so ancestral witches storyline? I’m also not mad they made her one character, it fit better for the story they were going for.

BRING BACK CLOUD TOWER!! NOT ALL WITCHES ARE BITCHES (mainly mirta)

I know Riven is an ass but it was d r a g g e d. Like let’s lead this guy on! Oh and do drugs on campus! I’m 16 btw but let’s get drunk every other scene! Not to shame though.

I just don’t like Sam, he was boring to me and contributed nothing. sorry

Dane had potential to be a great self discovery story but no let’s make him fat shame Terra because that’ll be cute! no.

It’s just weird to think that Sky’s father abandoned him to raise a completely different child.. I don’t- yeah..

Kiko is- oh wait he wasn’t there.

Why are they on instagram? If anything, they would’ve probably had something wayyy more advanced.

Adding more fire fairies just lessened the stakes of Bloom’s whole reasoning for trying to master the powers of the dragon flame because she was the only one left so she had no choice but Fate makes it easier to argue that she was just being selfish when in WC, it had to be done.

I do like male fairies and female specialist, power! but i wish they kept the schools separate.

I know everyone says this but.. their outfits could’ve given us another Euphoria like moment and they wasted that opportunity. I mean seriously, you put Bloom in Brandy Melville?

SHIPS

I wish SkyxBloom was more slow burn and had more build up. It was reasonable but idk the pace still seemed a bit fast.

There should be no world where SkyxBloomxStella would exist. Not in this or any other worlds.

MusaxSam was just boring.

TerraxDane just no.

wheres nabu for aisha? actually, respectfully do not let the same people cast Nabu and Helia because i just don’t trust y’all-

RivenxBeatrix, eh follows the og plot but i wasn’t really a fan of it back then too.

RivenxDane, seems queerbaity? maybe it was intentionally set up that way for development but it rubs me off wrong.

#fate the winx saga #winx club #winx club aisha #winx club bloom #winx club stella #winx club musa #winx club flora #winx netflix #winx layla #winx #specialist #alfea #winx alfea #winx faragonda #winx sky

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crvptidgf · 4 years

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Reassured

Draco Malfoy x Reader

[FLUFF]

thank you to everybody who's shown interest in this mini-series! this is my first time doing a longer fic so I'm really happy for everyone's support. I hope you enjoy the last part to 'Second Thoughts'.

taglist: @galacticnerd-78 @strawberry-chic-ville @diggorycedrics @teheharrypotter @smiithys

- - -

It was already Halloween day and nobody had seen you at all. You mostly kept to yourself in your dormitory when no one was there, or stayed in secluded areas of the castle so as to not get caught.

It was silly to keep missing class like this, yet as much as you hated admitting it, the entire encounter with Pansy bothered you immensely. Not to mention she had done it in front of half the Slytherin students.

You were embarrassed and ashamed. Ashamed that you had put so much trust into a stupid boy who everyone warned you to stay away from. What was so special about him that you couldn't have just stopped talking to him? Deep down you knew what it was, but you weren't ready to come to terms with it.

You had a huge crush on him. When he wasn't being an asshole to the Golden Trio, he was actually pretty sweet; in his own way. Now, as the Halloween celebrations neared, you wondered why Draco would've betrayed your trust. You tried convincing yourself it was a misunderstanding... but who else knew your deepest, darkest insecurities?

Besides your trusty diary, no one else had known the extent of your worries. Except Draco.

Sighing to yourself, you swiftly walked past the Great Hall. Ignoring the grumble of your stomach as the smell of warm food wafted in your nostrils, you kept walking. You wish you were in there having fun with your friends but you really weren't ready to face everybody yet. The plan was to wait it out until after the Halloween break. Maybe everyone will forget.

Or more like until you forget...

Walking into the girl’s bathroom, you headed for one of the bathroom stalls but stopped in your tracks as you heard sniffling coming from the first stall. ‘Bad day too, huh?’ You thought.

You sighed and turned back around, not wanting to be disturbed by the other girl’s crying. You were on the search for another place to wait out the celebrations. The dungeons were closed off due to the fact that Dumbledore wanted everybody in the Great Hall for Halloween. Apparently it was Quirrel’s suggestion. Weird, considering that teacher hated social interaction...

As you walked along the hallways of the castle, a certain noise caught your attention. A crowd of Ravenclaws were heading back to their dorms. Strange - were the celebrations over already? It seemed too early for that.

Since you were expecting to stay out of the dorms for longer, you decided to walk the opposite direction of the students retreating to their rooms. Instead, deciding to run past the girl’s bathroom and deeper into the castle, to more a more abandoned area.

The area hadn’t been in use for a long time, that much was obvious. Dust gathered on the stone floor, your footsteps making marks in the piles. It wasn’t very well lit and a cold breeze hugged your entire body, making your entire body shiver.

You pulled out your wand and whispered ‘lumos’. A bright light erupted from your wand and you let out a breath, happy to be able to light up the place even just a little bit.

The past few days you had been trying not to think about the incident with Pansy. The harder you tried to push it down though, the more it bothered you.

You hoped spending some time alone in this part of the castle was a good idea - but as soon as you heard a loud bang echoing deep from within the hallway, you began questioning this thought. Was someone else there? That couldn't be. I had been sectioned off from the rest of the building. No one ever came here.

The ground beneath you seemed to shake as you heard more and more bangs coming closer to you until you realized: those were not bangs, but footsteps. Very, very big footsteps.

Moving your eyes from the big grey feet on the cold stone floor, you were met by a confused pair of eyes. A creature stood there, staring at you. The confused expression then turned to one of anger as it roared loudly. The impact of it’s breath almost pushed you back.

Almost dropping your wand in the haste, you yelled 'knox' and headed down the dark hallway to your right. Maybe you could lose this thing in the darkness. That’s all your frantic mind could think of in the moment so you hoped it would work. You had barely even caught a glimpse of it but from what you saw it looked like a troll.

‘How did a troll get in the castle?’ You thought as you turned another corner, bumping into the side of the wall by accident.

The darkness made it almost impossible to see. Luckily, Hogwarts has huge windows that let some moonlight in- just enough to let you somewhat see your way around.

If you turned another few corners, you’d be back at the girl’s bathroom. So you tried to speed up, hoping you could hide it out there. Yet, sadly, not even the bright moon could save you from missing the uneven cracks in the old castle floors, because in an instant, your body slammed onto the ground. Pain shot through your knees and palms as you tried to push yourself up quickly.

Not quick enough, though. You didn’t even have to turn around to know that the troll had already caught up to you. Closing your eyes and clenching your fists, you waited for something to happen. Nothing ever came, though. At least, not something you were expecting. A voice from behind the troll could be heard as someone cast a stun spell on the troll. But who-?

“Y/N, c’mon. The spell won’t hold for long!” Draco. Of course.

He ran towards you and grabbed your hand, pulling you towards the direction you were trying to run towards. You dashed through the halls, running past the bathroom for the second time tonight.

Fuck. You really hoped the crying girl wasn’t still in there.

The thought was pushed from your mind as Draco yanked you in another direction. He looked back quickly to make sure you weren’t being followed. The light from his wand penetrated the darkness, making it easier to find your way to the Great Hall.

You saw the gold lights of the candles flicker as you finally reached the more populated area of the castle. Realizing you still had your hand in Draco’s, you dropped it quickly, heat rushing up your neck and onto your cheeks.

You both leaned against the wall. All that could be heard was your heavy breathing as you tried to understand what had happened. You placed your hands on your knees and took a deep breath, shaking your thoughts to clear your head.

“How did it get in here?” you asked.

Draco huffed and ran a hand over his face, wiping the beads of sweat that were previously there.

“I don’t know. We had to be escorted into our dorms about 20 minutes ago,” he said.

It all made sense now. The Halloween celebrations didn’t end early, a certain visitor just came at the wrong time. Or maybe the right time. It was convenient that it managed to come in when everyone was at dinner... Pushing this thought out of your head, you decided you had more important things to worry about. Like a certain asshole who was standing right beside you.

“I’ll make sure my father finds out about this. What kind of school lets a troll in?” he mumbled. It was barely audible but you stifled a laugh as you heard it.

Remember, you were still mad at him.

“Why aren’t you in the dorms then?” you said, rising up and wiping a wet strand of hair from your sticky face.

His face suddenly turned pink and he looked away from you and cleared his throat.

“I- I saw you weren’t in the dorms. So I snuck back out...” he stuttered.

You scoffed as you crossed your arms and stared at him.

“Oh so now you care about me? What about when you told Pansy my entire fucking life-story?”

Looking back at you he shook his head. He walked closer to you but you backed up further, not wanting his pity. You waited for an explanation patiently.

“I didn’t tell her anything. I don’t know how she found out,” he said. Seeing the disbelief on your face, he tried elaborating more.

“I only figured out she knew all of those things that day in the common room. I swear - I would never tell her anything.”

You wanted to believe him. You really did, but what other explanation was there?

‘My diary...’ you realized. You should have known. It made more sense than Draco revealing your secrets. That was a problem you would confront another day, though.

Suddenly your scuffed shoes seemed very interesting. Staring at the ground as you dug your foot into the chipped stone, you sighed.

“Fine but why didn’t you... stop her,” you whispered. Remembering how that day made you feel, you bit your lip.

You really thought Draco was your friend. When he did that, it made you question your entire friendship. You hated the fact that you lost your trust in him in that moment, but you couldn’t help it.

“I’m sorry, you’re right. I should’ve said something to her.”

He stepped towards you again but this time you stood in your place. He placed his hand on your shoulder, making you look up at him. Guilt seeped into him as he saw the sadness on your face. Wow he really fucked up...

“I don’t like standing up to them usually but... I’ll do better. For you- I promise,” he said.

“And you know I never make promises,” he added with a chuckle.

“Shut up, idiot,” you said, cracking the smallest smile.

You threw your arms around him, hugging him tightly. You guys stood there for a few seconds before you spoke up again.

“You better not pull something like that again.”

Draco laughed and squeezed you a bit more.

“I wouldn’t dream of it. As long as you don’t tell anyone I apologized. I can’t ruin my reputation,” he said jokingly.

You knew his reputation meant a lot to him due to his father’s influence. It made you wonder if he was joking at all. For his sake, you decided you wouldn’t tell anyone that Draco Malfoy could be an absolute softie.

Rolling your eyes, you let go of him finally. Linking arms you began walking down to the dungeons. You both kept bumping shoulders teasingly as you made your way back to the common room, happy to be together again.

Now, the biggest obstacle was getting to your rooms... without getting a detention.

You guys really needed to figure out how to stop getting into bad situations.

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gloves94 · 4 years

Text

Sunburn [Prince Zuko] 30

Warnings: Rating: PG-13 Pairings: Zuko/OC Summary: “You have everything you’ve always wanted.” “No.” He said softly. “Not everything…” His golden eyes looked at her with a melting intensity she had never witnessed before. “I guess not.” She responded with glassy eyes as tears welled up threatening to break the dam of her eyes.

Sunburn Chapter M A S T E R L I S T

My fanfiction M A S T E R L I S T

Appa had been flying over the endless ocean for what seemed to be forever now. Aang conducting Appa. Zuko sat in the back leaning against the edge of the saddle wanting to create as much distance with the Sun Spirit who had been struggling to meditate for the past couple of hours.

"We've been riding for hours." Zuko groaned as Appa flew towards the Sun Warriors' island, "I don't know why, but I thought this thing would be a lot faster."

Appa growled loudly and Aang glanced over his shoulder at the older teen cheerfully. "Appa's right, Zuko. In our group, typically we start our missions with a more upbeat attitude."

"Are you going to complain the entire way?" The girl glared at him opening an eye. "I'm trying to meditate. Shh!" she hissed, the edge of her eye twitching with annoyance. Truth was just being around him set him on edge. She couldn’t believe how much of a diva Zuko could be about these things. ‘Spoiled royal brat…’

"You've been demanding peace and quiet since we left the Air Temple. Give it a rest. You don't even know what you're doing." He scoffed rudely turning to glare back at her.

"Aren’t you a little too young to be suffering from fire bendingdisfunction?” She poked where she knew it would hurt him.

Zuko’s face had turned red in both anger and embarrassment he was about to retort a snide comment when Aang interrupted.

"Quit it you two!" Aang called over his shoulder scolding the two teenagers that were acting more like children. They had been glaring and making snide comments at each other the whole way through. "If you two are going to fight the whole way to the temple I'm turning Appa around!"

The arguing teens in the back both lowered their shoulders in defeat and glared at each other sparks flying when their gazes crossed.

"I can't believe this!" Zuko grumbled under his breath and he rested his head on the saddle rim with a sigh.

Aang cringed slightly as he guided Appa through the sky. He wondered just what had happened to those two over the night. They had gone from holding hands to not speaking to full-blown tension and fighting in less than twenty-four hours.

"Don't worry," Aang quipped with a grin as he guided Appa through the sky. "You'll get the hang of it," he said optimistically regarding Zuko’s firebending. “And hopefully we’ll learn something about the Sun Spirit!”

Zuko rolled his eyes and remained silent, crossing his arms over his chest. He stared up at passing clouds overhead. He couldn't bear the sight of her. It was much too painful… Appa suddenly growled loudly and Zuko sat up. The sky bison sped up and broke through a low hanging cloud. The three gasped in awe at the sight below.

"Whoa!"

Scattered ruins littered a golden island below. The striking architecture and pyramids standing as a testament to the ages. Aang flicked the reins and directed Appa towards the edge of the ruins, the sky bison landing with a low grunt. Aang retrieved his staff from the saddle as Zuko and Tsai jumped to the ground, looking at the ancient ruins before them in awe.

Moments later they were exploring.

"Even though these buildings are ancient, there's something eerily familiar about them." Zuko commented as he looked around. "I can tell the Fire Sages' temples are somehow descended from these."

"Okay, we learned something about architecture." Aang quipped and he looked over his shoulder at the older boy, "Hopefully, we'll learn something about firebending and the sun. The past can be a great teacher." "Do you feel any different Tsai?" He asked. She was about to respond when his foot suddenly caught on something and he tripped forward with a surprised yelp. His yelp turned into a yell of fear when the ground in front of him vanished, revealing a bed of sharp black spikes. It was a trap! Aang quickly exhaled a huge gust of air, preventing himself from falling into the pit trap while propelling himself safely across to the other side.

He landed shakily on the other side in a crouch, flailing his arms slightly to keep his balance. He panted in surprise and turned towards the Fire Nationers across, his eyes wide. "I think the past is trying to kill me!"

"I can't believe it." Zuko muttered in amazement as he kneeled down and inspected the trip wire. "This booby trap must be centuries old, and it still works."

"There's probably a lot more." Tsai looked around the ruins with suspicion. Aang straightened and clutched his staff nervously, glancing around with wary eyes. "Maybe this means we shouldn't be here."

"Maybe this means we should be here." The redhead challenged as the eyed the bed of spikes thinking of a way to cross them. "People don't make traps unless they've got something worth protecting," she observed.

Zuko glanced across the spike bed briefly then took a several steps back. Taking a deep breath, he ran towards the wall, running across it to the other side of the trap. He landed beside Aang and brushed himself off casually, a smirk tugging at his lips as he looked over at the younger teen.

"Where's that upbeat attitude you were talking about?" He smiled at Aang disbelieving look then he looked towards the largest temple in the center of the ruins.

"Show off," the girl muttered under her breath and crossed her arms over her chest before kneeling down and analyzing the rope that had triggered the trap.

"Need some help?" Zuko challenged from across the spike bed his body language mimicking hers as he crossed his arms over his chest.

Over her dead body she was asking him for any help. Her pride was already hurt enough as it was. She looked at both of them standing on the other side of the courtyard and frowned. There was no way she was fast enough to walk on the wall like Zuko or that she could blow her way across like Aang. She looked at both of them slightly frustrated at her lack of skills. She would find a way across, but it would take her some time.

"I-I'll catch up…" She responded smugly turning away. Being unable to shed her pride.

"Tsai are you sure? I can-" Aang began but was interrupted by Zuko who turned his shoulder away. "She can handle it." He said crass and they began to walk away leaving the girl alone in the courtyard.

She glowered at him fists clenched at her sides. He had really been getting on her nerves today. Bummed she kicked a nearby rock on the ground fuming.

She looked at the bed with spikes maybe- she could just walk across it carefully? Slow and steady wins the race? She got the rope and looked up to a branch ready to toss it over and use it to swing cross. By now Aang and Zuko had probably found a rare treasure or the true origins of firebending! She had to hurry.

"Who goes there?" A rough voice suddenly said. She felt something sharp poke her back and turned in fearful shock to see a tan man wearing tribal gear. A native man of the Sun Warrior islands! The warrior wore a menacing expression on his face and pointed a sharp spear at her chest.

Xxx

Sometime later on a separate part of the island Aang and Zuko ran into some trouble.

The Avatar grunted and yanked at the metal bars, trying to get them to budge and his hands stuck to the goo already on the bars. He struggled to pull them off, but they remained stuck. "I can't move. Zuko, do something!"

"Me?" Zuko squawked indignantly, "What do you expect me to do?! I can't move either!"

Aang glanced over his shoulder and his eyes widened when he saw the goo was nearing the ceiling. He turned back around and renewed his struggle to move the metals bars, but any attempt at trying to budge them was cut short when the goo finally reached them. Zuko and Aang both groaned in discomfort as the goo pressed them tightly against the grating until it suddenly stopped.

"It stopped." Aang muttered in relief.

Zuko sighed and stared up at the sky, "At least we have air. Maybe if we stay calm, we can figure a way out of this."

"Tsai's probably lost looking for us!" Aang said after a while. "TSAIIIIII!!!!!" He shouted at the top of his lungs hoping the girl wherever she was would hear them and come to their aid. Zuko slightly cringed at the volume ringing eight next to his eardrums.

Hours passed and the girl never showed.

"Something is not right," Zuko said, his eyes narrowed in worry as he gazed up at the night sky.

"Tsai should've been here by now…" He struggled against the tight grip of the goo that was holding them in place. Aang stared up at the sky, which had long since grown dark, and sighed. He had long given up on shouting for the girl's help. He glanced over at Zuko from the corner of his eye, "You hadto pick up the glowing egg, didn't you? You just hadto tell Tsai to stay in the courtyard!"

"At least I made something happen." Zuko retorted defensively, glaring as best he could at the younger boy, "If it were up to you, we'd never have made it past the courtyard."

Aang ignored him and, opening his mouth wide, shouted as loudly as he could, "HELP!"

"Who are you yelling to?" Zuko demanded in exasperation, "Tsai probably went back to the Air Temple and nobody's lived here for centuries."

"She wouldn't do that! She wouldn't abandon us! She's probably out there looking for us… Maybe she got lost? Maybe-"

"I know she can take care of herself." The prince spoke abruptly almost defensively. For the sake of the spirits she broke the Fire Lord's nose with one blow. "But I-…" He let out a frustrated grunt.

"You're worried," Aang acknowledged slightly surprised. Who would've guessed Zuko was such a big softie?

His silence confirmed Aang's suspicion.

"I don't know how to act around her anymore. It's… hard." He sighed sounding emotionally drained.

"Just be yourself," Aang advised. "She's obviously angry at you but it'll pass."

'Easier said than done,' the scarred prince thought to himself.

"Well, what do you think we should do?" Aang asked after a moment.

Zuko looked off the side for a moment then muttered, "Think about our place in the universe?"

Aang groaned and closed his eyes.

"Who is down there?" A gruff voice called.

Aang and Zuko's eyes went wide as a tan man wearing warpaint on his face, a headdress, and a tribal outfit stepped into view.

"No way..." Aang muttered quietly as he stared up at the man.

xxx

After being freed from the grate by several men and women wearing face-paint and dressed similarly to the man in the headdress, Aang and Zuko sat in front of the chamber's closed door, still trapped in the sticky goo. Two aardvark-sloths sat on either side of them, happily licking the slime off of them while the men and women stood in a loose circle around them.

The man, who was obviously the chief, walked towards the two boys, "For trying to take our sunstone, you must be severely punished!"

"We didn't come here to take your sunstone." Zuko stated firmly, ignoring the aardvark-sloth licking his face, "We came here to find the ancient origin of all firebending."

"Yeah, right." A skinny man snapped as he stepped out of the loose circle and came to a stop beside the chief, cradling the golden gem in his arms, "They are obviously thieves, here to steal Sun Warrior treasures."

"Please," Aang begged, looking up at the chief with imploring eyes as he placed a newly freed hand on his chest, "I don't normally play this card, but...I'm the Avatar." The skinny man looked towards the chief with a puzzled expression. The chief just stared at Aang intently and, seeing his chance, Aang struggled to his feet and gave a weak smile, "Just hear us out."

Zuko, now also clean off the slime, stood up as well. "My name is Zuko, Crown Prince of the Fire Nation." He paused and looked down at the ground, "Or at least, I used to be." He sighed and looked up at the chief earnestly, "I know my people have distorted the ways of firebending to be fueled by rage and hate. But now I want to learn the true way," He paused and stared back at the ground remorsefully, "The original way. When we came here, I never imagined the Sun Warrior civilization was secretly alive."

"I am truly humbled to be in your presence. Please, teach us." Zuko said and he bowed respectfully along with Aang.

The Sun Warrior chief looked at them critically then spoke, "If you wish to learn the ways of the Sun, you must learn them from the masters Ran and Shao."

"Ran and Shao? There are two of them?" Aang questioned in surprise, Aang was yanked out of his thoughts when the Chief stepped in front of him and Zuko. The older man looked down at both of them sternly. "Your judgement will depend on Taiyo Shin."

Aang and Zuko exchanged a confused look. The tribespeople banged their staffs against the ground and all cried "Taiyo Shin" in unison.

Aggressive drumming began beating in the background. Firebenders began shooting flames up in the night sky. "Taiyo Shin," They chanted repeatedly. "Taiyo Shin."

"What's a Taiyo Shin?" Aang whispered to his friend nervously inching towards him. Zuko had no clue.

It was then that a paladin made out of gold appeared. It was lifted up the stairs by several tribesmen that hummed deeply as they approached the front of the pyramid. Two at the front fanned whatever was being carried hiding it from view. Until it stopped before the Chief and the two 'thieves.'

Suddenly they all dropped to their knees in adoration.

"Taiyo Shin" They worshiped as they bowed before the paladin. "Taiyo Shin," their foreign words echoed the landscape.

The feathered fans were lowered, and the fire roared as Taiyo Shin revealed itself before them. Sitting on the paladin on a golden chair with one leg crossed over the other sat a woman being adored, revered, worshiped by an ancient civilization.

"Taiyo Shin!"

She rose from her chair. A smug smile on her vainglorious face which had been painted from the nose up with a crimson red and a white streak. She wore a crown made out of gold and sunstones and had changed into tribal gear. She raised a hand and the Sun Warriors immediately silenced.

Aang couldn't believe his eyes. Zuko's jaw dropped. "How angry did you say Tsai was at you?"Aang squeaked nervously.

She came down and stood before them looking at them with mock judgement.

"I deem you two…" Her eyes zeroed in on them both. There was a chilling silence.

"Unworthy," the edge of her lips curved up maliciously.

"What?!" Aang snapped. "What are you doing?!" Zuko exclaimed. "Tsai you know us- you that we are more than worthy!" Aang protested.

"Are you?" She said darkly almost in a menacing tone.

The tribesmen seized the 'thieves.'Aang and Zuko tried to fight them off. Both of their expressions white with fear. Neither of the boys could believe this is how it would end.

She raised up both of her arms dramatically "Halt!". The world stopped moving when she commanded. She couldn't hold it in any longer. Tsai bowed down holding her stomach hard and falling crown as she laughed obnoxiously.

"Ah! You should've seen your faces!" She wiped a stray tear before walking back to her pagoda still laughing and plopping down on the chair.

"That's what you two get for leaving me behind," she said with a teasing grin.

Aang felt nauseous at the prank. Zuko had an annoyed expression on his face. It was almost comical.

"I deem thee worthyof Masters Ran and Shao."

The tribespeople cheered wildly. The Sun Warrior Chief clapped, and Tsai was carried to the highest level of the temple. And the Sun Warrior stepped forward. "The Sun has spoken." He nodded.

"When you present yourselves to them, they will examine you. They'll read your hearts, your souls, and your ancestry." He took a step towards Zuko and towered over him, "If they deem you worthy, they will teach you. If they don't..." He paused and narrowed his eyes dangerously, "You'll be destroyed on the spot."

The chief stepped back and Zuko swallowed, exchanging a nervous glance with Aang.

The sun was beginning to rise when the Sun Warrior Chief and his people had led Zuko and Aang towards the main structure in the center of the ruins. The chief stood before a blazing fire, and in that fire undisturbed sat the Sun Spirit with her legs crossed under her body. She remained calm and collected. Her hair lightly swaying with the embers. Aang and Zuko starred in awe at the vision before them.

The chief turned towards the two boys, "If you're going to see the Masters, you must bring them a piece of the eternal flame." He gestured towards the fire blazing fiercely behind him, Zuko and Aang staring at it in astonishment. The Sun Warrior Chief raised his arms proudly and turned back to the boys, "This fire is the very first one. It was given to Man by the dragons and given to the dragons by the Sun. The Priestesses and Priests of our tribe have kept it going for thousands of years."

"I don't believe it." Zuko whispered in bewilderment and awe.

"You will each take a piece of it to the Masters, to show your commitment to the sacred art of firebending."

"Um..." Aang hesitated and looked at the chief unsurely, "Mister Sun Chief, sir? Yeah, I'm not a Firebender yet." He gestured towards Zuko weakly, "Couldn't my friend here carry my fire for me."

"Taiyo Shin?"The Sun Warrior Chief questioned turning to look at the girl that sat inside the inferno.

"No. You have to carry your own Aang," she responded sternly while squinting an eye open from her disturbed meditation. "That was the whole point of coming here in the first place remember?" She opened both eyes and narrowed them at the young boy.

"Taiyo Shinhas spoken," The Sun Warrior Chief said dramatically before returning to the fire. Aang watching uneasily as he reached into the flames and pulled some of the fire into his palm. "This ritual illustrates the essence of Sun Warrior philosophy." The Sun Warrior Chief turned in a full circle and split the fire equally in two, holding a flame in each hand. "You must maintain a constant heat. The flame will go out if you make it too small." He held the fire out to Aang. The chief turned towards Zuko and held one of the flames out to him, "Make it too big, and you might lose control."

Zuko stared at the flame coolly as he took it from the chief, cradling it carefully in his hands. He looked over at Aang, who was staring at the fire the chief was holding out to him warily.

"I'm sorry. I'm just a little nervous." Aang apologized with a wince. He took a deep breath and, closing his eyes, gathered the fire into his hands. The fire flared for a second then settled and Aang opened his eyes slowly.

"It's OK Aang. You're not going to hurt anyone," the girl in flames spoke with a small smile. Both of her eyes closed once again as she attempted her best to focus on her meditation. He stared at the flickering flame in his hand, his expression relieved and awed. "It's like a little heartbeat."

"Fire is life, not just destruction." The Sun Warrior Chief explained patiently, "You will take your flames up there." He pointed to a rocky mountain nearby, the boys turning to look in that direction. The Sun Chief continued, "The cave of the Masters is beneath that rock."

Aang and Zuko looked at each then turned and headed down the temple's stairs, beginning the trek towards the mountain.

"In regard to you…" The Sun Warrior Chief turned to face Tsai with his arms crossed over his chest. She instantly deflated the moment the two boys were out of sigh losing her cool. Her heavy sunstones crown almost falling over as she slouched.

"OK," she began. "I've told you almost a thousand times. I have no idea what I'm doing!" She confessed rising to her feet. "I don't know how to be the Sun Spirit. I'm not good at it. I've been doing nothing but meditating for the past twenty-four hours and have accomplished nothing!" She said taking off the feathery large crown.

"Your problem is that you think sun meditation comes from a blank state of mind, from an empty soul's slate when it does not. It does not come from rage or anger either." He explained sagely. "You need to be true to yourself. Embrace your emotions. Do not fear them."

"But how am I supposed to do that?" She said stepping out of the eternal flames.

"Fire gets its power from the sun. From you. And this power is not only destruction it is also life." He rephrased what he had previously said to Aang and Zuko.

She looked down at her feet feeling the stress already knotting up her back. "If you want to help the Avatar and your boyfriend take down the Fire Nation, you have to master this quickly."

"He's notmy boyfriend!" She roared angrily.

Seriously what had even given him that idea? They barely even made eye contact when he was here.

"Think. You've already manifested some of the proficiencies of a Sun Spirit. You have walked through fire, you've healed people and firebenders seek you out," he explained.

"Healed people?" She asked confused. "Firebenders? What are you talking about?"

"You've healed yourself before- and from what you told me yesterday that older man that was struck by lightning in the Earth Kingdom too."

She processed her words. How on Earth had she managed to do something she didn't know she could do?

"Have you noticed that firebenders are naturally magnetized to you?"

She paused for a moment to think. Her brother had always been good to her, so had Iroh and Zuko and then there was- She thought of how Ozai had been 'merciful' towards her and of Azula's most peculiar behavior towards her.

'Uh-Oh…' Well, thatmade sense now.

"They seek you out because your energy attracts them. Afterall you are the source of their power."

"What did all of these circumstances have in common?" He pressed.

"I-I don't know," She shifted in her feet awkwardly. "They were all just things thatIhad to do. If not, someone could've died. Hell, Icould've died." She explained at the realization.

"There," the Sun Warrior Chief pointed at her chest precisely at her heart. "You had to do them. You felt something in you. That emotion. That state of mind. I want you to seize it!" He said determinedly closing a fist in the air. "Empower yourself!" He roared.

She nodded. Weakly at first then in a more determined way.

"Alright," she said feeling more pumped up. High in spirits. "Let's do this. Let's get into the Sun Spirit state!" She cheered thrusting an optimistic fist up in the air and returning to the eternal fire where she assumed her former position.

'Embrace your emotions…'she repeated to herself through measured breaths. 'Embrace your emotions…'

She focused her thoughts on one memory in particular. That day that Iroh had been hurt. She hadn't even realized but she had somehow healed him in the spur of moment. She tried to focus on the fear she felt at the moment. The horrific scene.

"I already told you!" The Sun Warrior Chief scolded when he saw the way her eyebrows burrowed in concern. "Fire does not come from fear. It roots from passion and courage which gives us strength."

She sighed beyond annoyed and once again focused on her meditation. She focused on the care she had towards the older man, the love she felt for him. How every part of her will wanted him to survive that attack.

"I think…" she said suddenly feel a strange source of energy course through her veins. "I think I'm doing it…" She focused in embracing the warm feeling. "I think I'm doing it!" She opened her eyes. "I think I'm-" She felt a gentle breeze and open her eyes to see that she was no longer sitting in the eternal fire.

"AHHHH!!!!" She panicked. As did the chief and other Sun Warrior who all shouted in panicked and ran towards the diminutive flame that became almost nonexistent.

All of their eyes zeroed in on her with fury. Their faces red with anger.

This… was not good.

"Taiyo Shin?" She uttered nervously.

Xxx

There was no more palanquin when she was sloppily carried down the stairs of the pyramid with her hands tied behind her back.

"I am the Sun God! Taiyo Shin!" She protested. In an attempt to once again be worshiped by the tribespeople.

"You almost singlehandedly extinguished the Eternal Flame!" The Sun Warrior Chief raged. "Because of this Masters Ran and Shao will determine your judgement."

She scoffed a little at this. Big deal what were two ancient firebenders going to do to her?

"I didn't ask for this!" She said as they carried her up a mountain. "I didn't ask to be this person. I question my place in the universe now more than ever."

"All answers will be revealed to you if you are deemed worthy of this knowledge by the masters."

xxx

It was dusk by the time the two boys weary from the trek made it to the top of the mountain where the Sun Warriors were already waiting for them, poised in an alternating standing and sitting position around the area. Aang looked at the bridge between the two mountain peaks in amazement while Zuko looked at the Sun Chief and two tribesmen approaching them. Where was their precious Sun God? Both Aang and Zuko looked around but found no sign of her.

"Facing the judgment of the firebending Masters will be very dangerous for you." The chief stated impassively as he regarded the two boys. He looked at Zuko sternly, "Your ancestors are directly responsible for the dragons' disappearances." The chief continued as Zuko looked to the side in shame. "The Masters might not be so happy to see you."

Another tribesmen put his hand on his hips and smirked at Zuko, "I know I wouldn't be."

"But," Aang protested quietly as he looked between Zuko and the Sun Chief, "Once they find out I'm the Avatar-"

"Have you forgotten that you vanished allowing the Fire Nation to wreak havoc on the world?" The Sun Chief demanded, interrupting the young Airbender. He stared Aang down, "The decline of the dragons is your burden too."

Aang bit his lip and looked away. The Sun Warrior Chief stared at the two boys stonily before driving his staff into the ground, the two tribesmen taking a bending stance on either side of it, mirroring each other. The Sun Chief then stepped forward, bending a section from each of the two boys' flames and placing them onto the waiting Sun Warriors' open palms.

The two tribesmen moved towards the other Sun Warriors waiting in a ring, while the chief removed his staff from the ground. In perfect synchronization, the two tribesmen carrying the flame passed it to another tribesman, who bended it into a circle a few times before the next Sun Warrior who is standing bends a small part of the fiery circle towards her and repeats the process.

Aang glanced around nervously then looked up at Zuko as the Sun Warrior Chief walked towards the staircase that led to the bridge, "We could turn back now. We've already learned more about fire than we hoped." He held up the little flame cupped in his hands and smiled weakly.

"No, we're seeing this through to the end." Zuko replied determinedly. "We're gonna meet these masters and find out what's so great about them."

"What if they judge us and attack us?"

"Well, we're the Fire Prince and the Avatar." Zuko stated, unsheathing his dao swords slightly for emphasis with a confident smile, "I think we can take these guys in a fight, whoever they are."

Aang bit his lip uneasily but nodded in agreement. Zuko took a deep breath then turned and stepped forward confidently, "Bring 'em out."

The Sun Chief threw his arms out to the side and called out, "Chanters!"

Several Sun Warriors, who are sitting down, began beating the drums in their laps in synchronization, the Sun Warriors who are standing or are without drums, chanting easily in time with the beat.

Aang and Zuko turned simultaneously and made their way towards the staircase where the Sun Warrior Chief was waiting for them, they're steps in time with one another. When they reached the stairs, the chief and the two warriors on either side of him stepped aside, letting Aang and Zuko pass.

The two boys looked at each other quickly, each taking a deep breath before climbing up the stairs. Aang glanced back as he walked after Zuko, hesitating a moment before swallowing and pushing forward. At the bottom of the staircase, the Sun Warrior Chief watched them with an unreadable expression.

The chanting and drumming stopped as soon as Zuko and Aang reached the top of the stairs and stepped out onto the bridge, the setting sun shining brightly before them. Before them sat a golden throne with Taiyo Shintied against it.

"Oh! I am so relieved to see you!" Tsai said as she struggled in the chair.

"Tsai! What happened?" Aang asked. "I almost put out the Eternal Flame, so the Sun Warriors went nuts and tied me up here for judgement before the Masters." "You did what?!" Zuko's eyes went wide.

Both boys looked warily at the two caves on either side of the bridge. Holding their fires cautiously.

"Not purposely! I was meditating and then it just happened!"

"Those who wish the meet the masters, Ran and Shao, will now present their fire." The Chief bellowed from below.

"So, they tied me up here," she sighed. "Big deal, now all I have is a headache. What are two old geezers going to do to me? Firebend at me until they're dead?" She let out what sounded like a humorous huff.

"Shhh!!" Zuko whispered nervously throwing her a side glare. Maybe she would survive the flames but he and Aang would be roasted and well-done for.

Aang and Zuko turned towards the caves simultaneously almost robotically and bowed with their hands outstretched towards the caves, presenting their fire.

In the courtyard, the Sun Chief looked over at one of the tribesmen, "Sound the call!"

The Sun Warrior took a deep breath and brought the horn he held in his hand to his lips, blowing hard; the sound sending a flock of birds roosting nearby scattering into the air.

Suddenly, the cave Aang was facing began to rumble, several rocks becoming dislodged, and he trembled fearfully, accidentally dropping his hands to his sides and extinguishing his fire. "What's happening?" He asked worriedly, turning to look over at Zuko's cave which remained unchanged.

The Sun Spirit felt her stomach sink with unease no longer feeling too brave about facing two firebenders. No normal human could make a cave cry and tremble that way.

"I have a feeling there's more to these two masters than what they've let on…"

Zuko turned slightly and gave both of them a puzzled look. Aang cringed, quickly returning to his bowed position, with his hands outstretched. A second later his eyes widened, gasping in dismay when he realized his flame was gone, and he quickly turned back towards Zuko.

"Zuko," Aang whispered desperately, "My fire went out."

"What do you want meto do?" Zuko whispered back sarcastically, glancing over his shoulder at the younger boy.

"Give him some of yours!" The girl said in panic from her chair. "Give me some of yours." They both said in unison. Aang reaching over Zuko's shoulder for the fire.

"No," Zuko hissed as he gently pushed Aang aback, "Just make your own. Isn't that the whole point of why we came here?" He turned to look at Tsai who was looking at both of them with an irritated expression.

Aang reached for Zuko's fire again, "I can't!'

"Get some from one of those warriors. Hurry." Zuko snapped, losing patience as he kept Aang from taking some of his fire. His voice rose slightly in annoyance, "Stop cheating off me!"

Down at the bottom of the stairs, the Sun Warrior Chief exchanged bemused and exasperated glances with another warrior, the two boys' argument easily heard.

"Quit being stingy!" Aang demanded irritably back on the bridge, continuing to reach for Zuko's flame, but was unable to reach it because of their height difference. Zuko grunted and lifted his arm higher so that the flame remained out of the younger boy's reach.

Aang growled slightly as he attempted to grab the fire by sticking it close to Zuko's back, flailing his arms from under Zuko's armpits. The two continued to struggle for the flame for a few more minutes until Aang accidentally caused Zuko to drop his hands, extinguishing the flame. The two boys froze for a second then jumped apart, looking at each other unsurely and then both turned to face the Sun Spirit who looked beyond irritated at their antics.

"Any chance you could make a fire?" Zuko asked bleakly.

"No," She rolled her eyes. Ironic wasn't it? "Good news is, that now that both of you have your hands free you can untie me."

"I don't know if we are supposed to…" Aang trailed off uneasily.

"Just do it!" The girl barked beyond irritated.

Zuko looked at Aang and nodded both of them quickly attempting to undo the knots and loosen the ropes that kept her tied to a chair.

The cave on Zuko's side suddenly began to rumble, shaking the bridge, and the boys looked at it unsurely. The other cave began to rumble and shake the bridge and the trio looked at each other with troubled expressions.

There was no time for accusations or to point fingers at each other.

"Uh-oh." They muttered.

Suddenly, a pair of yellow eyes glowed in the darkness of the cave and a red dragon shot out of it with a thunderous roar. It circled around the bridge and the three of them, the overwhelmingly powerful winds caused by the dragon's wings causing them to stagger slightly. Tsai remained sitting in her throne both of her hands clutching the chair's arms tightly.

Zuko lowered his arms, which he'd raised to protect his face, and stared in shock at the dragon, turning to follow its path. He sucked in a sharp breath as a blue dragon erupted from the other cave, joining its red counterpart in circling around each other, the bridge, and the boys.

"These are the Masters." Zuko whispered reverently, watching the dragons fly around each other in awe.

"I can't believe it." The girl let out a ghostly breath.

Aang leaned towards Zuko and whispered, "Still think we can take 'em?"

"Shh!" Zuko hissed and he looked at the dragons nervously, "I neversaid that!"

As the dragons continued circling, the Sun Warriors bowed down in the courtyard.

"Oh, here it comes." A tribesman whispered eagerly as he looked up slightly at the boys with a grin, "Any moment now...dinner for the Masters."

The Sun Warrior Chief turned towards the other man and barked lowly, "Quiet!

"What?" The other warrior sulked, turning his head away, "Everyone's thinking it."

Up on the bridge, Aang studied the dragons, who were still flying in an elaborate formation of twists, turns, and curves. His eyes widening in realization, he whispered to Zuko without looking away from the dragons, "Zuko, I think we're supposed to do The Dragon Dance with them."

"What?" Zuko demanded in bewilderment. "What about this situation makes you think they want us to dance?"

Tsai was in such shock she wasn't even paying attention to whatever Aang and Zuko were saying or doing. Her eyes following the dragons as she stared in awe.

"Well, I think they want us to do something." Aang explained and he looked at Zuko imploringly, "Let's just try it."

"Fine." Zuko grunted and, back to back, they shifted into the first position of The Dancing Dragon, the two dragons shooting upward at the same time, then they shifted into the next position and the dragons followed them.

Moving fluidly, Aang turned to the side and spread his arms out, the blue dragon flying beside him, following the shape of his arms as he shifted into each position. He then thrust his arms down and to the side, the dragon turning sharply at the same time.

Exactly parallel to Aang and the blue dragon, Zuko and the red dragon did the same, keeping in perfect sync with their counterparts. Zuko moved just as seamlessly as Aang, pushing one hand up while angling the other underneath that arm; the red dragon flying beside him angling upwards as well. Zuko ducked down into a crouch with one leg extended and the dragon dove down, following the movement of his outstretched leg.

Slowly, the boys moved in a circle, heading towards each other with each fluid movement, the dragons complimenting their movements effortlessly. Finally, Aang and Zuko shifted into the final form of The Dancing Dragon, their bodies bent to the side and their arms outstretched towards the other, fists touching. They held the position for several seconds before glancing at the two dragons, who had stopped circling and were now hovering on either side of the bridge.

"Judgement time." The Sun Warrior Chief whispered.

Tsai shifted uneasily in her chair watching anxiously unsure if she should say or do anything. If there was a perfect time to go into the Sun Spirit State it would be now.

She looked at both Aang and Zuko who looked terrified. Odds are she would survive a fire breathing attack from the dragons but them? She looked at her friends and worry clung to her heart. She had to do something. Something. Anything.

Trembling slightly, Aang stood with his back against Zuko's, his eyes riveted to the red dragon staring straight at him. The blue dragon, facing Zuko, snarled lowly and he stared at it, mouth agape. The two dragons held their position for a long moment then dropped down, anchoring their lower legs to the bottom of the stone staircase while gripping the top with their front legs.

It was then that a gleaming golden light caught the attention of the two boys who turned and were stunned to find their friend glowing. Her hair was lightly whipped to the sides. Crown of sunstones reflecting the brilliant light. The ends of her hair had turned shades of white and yellow like embers and her eyes remained tightly shut.

Zuko instinctively reached for her. Aang held him back his eyes darting to the two dragons that surrounded them.

The dragons opened their mouths simultaneously and fire spilled forth, heading straight towards the boys. Aang and Zuko yelled fearfully, covering their faces with their arms as they were engulfed in a rising spiral of multi-colored flame. When they didn't feel the burning heat of being roasted alive, Zuko slowly lowered his arms and stared, completely shell-shocked by what he saw. He and Aang were standing in the eye of the fiery, swirling vortex, the flames an array of every color imaginable. Aang stared at the fire in wonder, the flames reflecting off his pupils, and he gasped in amazement.

"I understand." Zuko whispered in realization as he stared at the fire and the message that the dragons were conveying.

Slowly, the flames dissipated, and the dragons curled their bodies tightly then spring up and circle each other one final time this time flying directly towards Aang and Zuko. Both fell on their backs at the sudden strike through and marveled when the two creatures bowed before the Sun.

Tsai opened her eyes which presently resembled two bright rubies. Her expression was calm as she rose from her throne and starred into the yellow eyes of the red and blue dragons that bowed before her. She felt a strange familiarity when she stretched out her arms and lay a hand on each of their scaly snouts.

They closed their eyes for a moment providing visions and answers to many unasked questions.

With that the dancing dragons roared and spun in the air before each retreated to their individual caves.

The Avatar and the Prince both stood dazzled by the creature before them. Marveling at what they had just witnessed both of their eyes glued on the spirit that seemed to glow before their eyes. It only lasted for a moment before she stumbled forward, her head ducking, crown almost falling as her light dimmed, hair returning to its original shade of red. Both of the boys reached for her catching her by the arms.

The prince was about to inquired if she was OK. She beat him to it and in response she wrapped her arms around their necks and pulled them in close for a tight group hug.

"I finally know who I am!" She said beaming filled with glee. The edges of her eyes prickling with tears of joy.

Aang and Zuko smiled back at her and the three embraced.

The three made their way down the stairs, Tsai leading the way a confident smile on her face. "There fire was beautiful." Zuko said softly as they got closer to the bottom of the stairs. "I saw so many colors, colors I've never imagined."

"Like firebending harmony." Aang whispered in awe.

"Taiyo Shin!" They chanted before dropping to their knees in reverence as all movement ceased.

"Yes." The Sun Chief commented with a soft smile as the trio reached the courtyard.

"It seems like Our Sun has risen," The Chief spoke wisely bowing before the Spirit. "You were judged and granted visions of the true meaning of firebending."

"I can't believe there are still living dragons." Tsai stated in disbelief, "Yeah, my Uncle Iroh said he faced the last dragon and killed it." Zuko added.

Aang frowned slightly, "So your Uncle lied."

"Actually," The Sun Chief cut in with a smile, "It wasn't a total lie. Iroh was the last outsider to face the Masters. They deemed him worthy and passed the secret onto him as well."

Zuko's eyes widened in surprise and realization, "He must have lied to protect them, so no one else would hunt them."

"The Spirit of the Sun originally embodied the form of a Dragon. Strong, red, vibrant." the Chief began to explain. "The real reason why dragons were hunted was not for game. Sozin wanted to capture this spirit and seize its power for his own malicious purposes… In the wrong hands it could've compromised his own military agenda. Because of this the Sun Spirit decided to become incarnate in human flesh and hide in plain sight… That was of course a hundred years ago and somehow that spirit lives in you now." The Chief lightly bowed to her. Who was looking at him uneasily. "The Masters revealed a lot to me," she said averting her eyes. "But there's still a lot I don't understand. Whyme?" She shrugged feeling perhaps a little unworthy of bearing such significant power.

"I do not have all the answers child," The man said, and she looked down at the ground sadly. She felt a supportive hand on her shoulder and turned to see Zuko looking at her his eyes seemed to say that everything was going to be okay. She sighed and gave his hand a small squeeze before dropping it.

"Don't worry Tsai, I know we'll figure it out soon." Aang said optimistically. He then turned to face the Chief. "All this time, I thought firebending was destruction." Aang shook his head and looked down at the ground, "Ever since I hurt Katara, I've been too afraid and hesitant. But now I know what it really is...it's energy, and life." He smiled at the Sun Warrior Chief, who inclined his head.

"Yeah, it's like the sun, but inside of you." Zuko agreed and he curled his hand into a fist, staring at it a moment before looking at the chief and gesturing with his arms, "Do you guys realize this?"

The red head smiled a little at this.

"Well, our civilization is called the Sun Warriors..." The chief replied with an amusement shrug, "So yeah."

"That's why my firebending was so weak before." He turned towards Aang as he spoke, "Because for so many years, hunting you was my drive...it was my purpose. So, when I joined you, I lost sight of my inner fire." Zuko narrowed his eyes in determination, "But now, I have a new drive. I have to help you defeat my father and restore balance to the world."

Zuko lunged forward and thrust his fist out, firebending a rather large sized flame before twisting around and doing it again. Both Aang and Tsai grinned. Aang excitedly and mimicked the other boy, a large jet of flame shooting from his fist. The two boys straightened and walked back to each other, happy with their shared accomplishment.

Once they three were standing before the Sun Warrior Chief again he turned to happily address them, "Now that you have learned the secrets, and you know about our tribe's existence," His expression suddenly became deadly serious and he stared the two boys down, "We have no choice but to imprison you here forever."

Aang and Zuko gaped at him, mouths open in shock. Tsai let out a raspberry blow. She had gotten to know the Chief well. The man had a strange sense of humor.

The chief snorted and grinned at them, "Just kidding. But seriously, don't tell anyone."

The two boys glanced at each other and then nodded at the Chief in agreement.

"Hey," The Sun Spirit stepped forward. "Can I keep the crown?" She said with a sly grin.

The Sun Warrior Chief laughed heartily, "No." He deadpanned.

Xxx

"I still can't believe he wouldn't let me keep the crown!" She grumbled in disbelief as she attempted to remove the red and white tribal paint off her face with her bare hands. "Technically it ismine."

"I can't believe you're still with that." Zuko said sitting next to her on Appa's saddle as they soared back to the Western Air Temple. "Where would you have even put it?"

"I would've worn it all day!" She stated laughing a little as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. He shook his head at the ridiculous statement.

"Hey," She said when something dawned upon her. "I'm.. I'm sorry if I was mean." She apologized sincerely. "It was uncalled for." She averted her eyes from him ashamed of how childish she had acted earlier in the day.

She felt something on her face and turned to feel him helping her wipe some of the tribal paint off her face with a small rag. She took that as his silent acceptance of her apology.

Aang smiled to himself as he eavesdropped and guided Appa through the skies. He let out a content breath. It seemed like once again there was some peace and balance between the two Fire Nationers.

"DID YOU LICK THIS?" His eardrums stung a little at the loud shouts behind him. Even Appa let out a low groan.

"I am trying to help you get the paint off!" The other protested back.

"Gross!" She screeched. "I don't want your saliva on my face!"

"You've never seemed to mind before!"

Again, Zuko’s social skills or lack of them were always astounding. Aang's shoulders slumped a little as the bickering continued. Just like that his five seconds of peace came and went.

Xxx

It was morning by the time that Aang, Tsai and Zuko returned to the Western Air Temple. "With this technique the dragons showed us, Zuko and I will be unstoppable." Aang explained as they shifted through the stances fluidly, firebending with each step. When they reached the final stance, the group applauded.

"Yeah, that's a great dance you two learned." Sokka quipped with a grin.

"It's not a dance." Zuko snapped defensively as he straightened from the last stance and turned to glare at the other teen, "It's a firebending form."

Sokka wiggled his fingers in a dancing motion, "Great. We'll just tap-dance our way to victory over the Fire Lord."

"It's a sacred form that happens to be thousands of years old!" Zuko stomped towards Sokka.

"Oh yeah?" Katara piped up with a sarcastic smirk, "What's your little form called?"

Zuko hesitated then sighed, hanging his head in embarrassment as he answered, "The Dancing Dragon."

The group erupted in a laughter. Zuko's eyebrow twitched and he closed his eyes, gritting his teeth in order to keep his temper in check.

"Yeah!" The group's optimist trusted a fist up in the air standing up. "The Fire Lord isn't going to stand a chance! We've got this in the bag!" She cheered.

Sokka looked at her an raised an eyebrow. "Oh yeah? And what did you learn? Don't tell me non-firebending is a thing now," he teased.

"No," She huffed hands on her hips. "I learned how to enter the Sun Spirit state." Tsai said triumphantly proud of her accomplishment. "And- what does that do?" Toph asked blankly reflecting the odd expressions everybody else shared.

"I… I'm not sure." She dead panned.

Again, the group laughed in unison. "It's a learning process! It's very hard! But I'll get the hang of it." The edge of her eye twitched as she folded her arms behind her head.

She let out an exhausted sigh. She still had a lot to learn…

xxx

AN: Taiyo Shin means "Sun God" in Japanese

xxx

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nad-zeta · 4 years

Text

Match up!(｡◕‿◕｡)

Hi! Can I have a matchup?If yes,thanks!❤ Appearence-wise:

I’m 5'11 female,I have long brown hair with dark brown eyes and glasses.I’m a scorpio-libra(moon) and an INTJ-A.

Personality-wise:

●Close friends describe me as mysterious,intelligent,cool and a loner.I’m really bad at expressing my feelings.I rarely smile but I tried to.

●People are intimidated at me even some of the teachers,because I have a resting bitch face and a blank expression cause I don’t know how to express my feelings.

●At first I will be cold and distant,so you must have a lot of patience to befriend me.But once you have earn my trust I will be a loyal,passionate and a huge softie around you.

●My love language is Physical touch and quality time together.

●I love listening to classical and pop song.I listen to lofi when studying.

Likes and disilikes:

●I like being in a quiet and peaceful place because it can easily calm me down when I get angry.

●I hate anything/anyone that is loud because whenever I hear someone shouting or screaming at each other because it make me scared and angry but mostly scared.

Hobbies:

●I love to read,playing piano/keyboard,drawing,listening to music and playing with cats.

Affection:

●I’m not used to PDA but welcomed it.

●I’m really touch starved because I never really grew up with an affectionate parents.

Fun facts:

●I’m really oblivious when it comes to someone’s feelings for me.

●I have unintentionally friend-zoned all of my best friends.

●I have a lot of scars on my body,especialy my legs.But my biggest insecurity is my right hand’s pinky.I broke it when I was 5 years old and never when to the hospital,so to this day my pinky is still broken and a lot of people have made fun of me because of it,so I’m insecure about it.

●I’m good at archery and shooting(using air-rifle of course).

●I’m love cats but I’m allergic to them😭I still play and hug them until my allergies is killing me.

●I’m scared of children because they are full of energy and its terifiying me.

●I’m very smart but lazy,so most people were shocked when I get good grade even when I slept during most of my class.

Anyways, sorry if it’s too long! Wish you the best, Thanks❤.ʚ♡⃛ɞ(ू•ᴗ•ू❁).

Hi hi, Love! 😊🌻❤Thank you so much for the request, also sorry for making you wait sooooooooo long! 😳😳 also its been a hot minute since ive done a match up so forgive me if its not as good as the previous ones😭🙈😱😱😳Hope you have the best day! and i hope you enjoy this, sending you all the hugs! @shower-wizard

So I match you with…………. Mitsunari

You had just saved the ‘all so great Nobunaga’ from the raging fires at the Honnō-Ji temple. As such, he decided to reward you by granting you the title of princess and allowing you to spend the rest of your days living in the lap of luxury in his castle. One would think being offered such a unique reward would at least provoke the slightest bit of emotion in you yet none crossed your features.

Your resting bitch face and calm, cool demeanour caught everyone’s attention, raising a few suspicious eyebrows among the warlords. Predominantly those of Hideyoshi who was convinced that you were hiding something behind that blank expression.

This man DID NOT TRUST YOU. This, of course, caused him to keep a very close eye on you, even more so when you had befriended one of his closest vassals, Mitsunari.

This angel took a massive liking to you from day one.

Mitsunari could sense that you were a big old sweetheart even with that stern expression resting upon your lips. He wasted no time at all, beaming at you from across the room on your first day, even offering to show you around. You gave the man a small nod and followed after him as he took you all over the castle showing you everything from the kitchens to the library.

You couldn’t help but gravitate towards Mitsunari. He was always wearing a bright sunny smile, making you feel welcome without being overbearing. You loved that he was calm and quiet as opposed to the loud Masamune who had been pestering you from day one.

He was always so kind and thoughtful, popping in to visit you and bringing you small little thoughtful gifts. Once he found out you were a fellow scholar he was beyond overjoyed, his eyes lit up in pure delight, and since that day he couldn’t help but bring you new books every day.

The pair of you would spend hours discussing book recommendations and suggestions, and Mitsunari would always be bringing you one or other new book to read. He loved to watch the way your eyes would light up whenever he would clumsily give you the book, saying that it was one of his new favourite. Oh and his heart always melts on the spot when you come by his room later that day to return the book, all while happily telling him how much you adored it.

He quickly picked up from your various tea dates, that you were rather clever, and absolutely loved to engage in a more intellectual conversations with you.

The thing you adored the most about this sweet ray of sunshine is that he respects your boundaries and slowly but surely managed to wiggle himself into your heart.

The day the two of you cuties got close and truly befriended one another, was the day that Mitsunari’s cat went missing.

You had been feeling rather uninspired with your drawing and art lately, so you decided that a change of scenery was in order to gain some much-needed inspiration. You slowly made your way to a secluded part of the castle gardens and instantly felt inspired to draw it. It was a lush green garden, filled with various vibrant flowers, and in the heart of this secret garden was a small crystal clear pond.

You found a wooden bench and sat down, enjoying the calm serenity of this mystical garden, when suddenly the bushes beside you started to rustle. You stumbled back falling off the bench with a thud as the rustling sound only got louder.

You looked over at the bush in fear, too paralyzed to move. When out of nowhere you heard a small meow. You curiously watched the bush for a few more moments when a small grey blob came flying out of the bush, tumbling straight to your face. You squeezed your eyes shut and let out a little squeak in surprise.

Slowly opening your eyes, you saw two big green eyes staring back at you. It was a small grey kitten that had jumped from the bushes to playfully attack you. You sighed a breath of relief and carefully reached out your hand as to not further startle the already on edge kitten. The little kitty cautiously inched closer to sniff your hand before nuzzling his tiny head in your palm. The small cat purred in delight as you moved to gently stroke his soft fur. You smiled over at the cat who seemed to be loving all the attention.

While you played with the kitten, Mitsunari appeared seemingly out of thin air, concerned painted across his face. He rushed to your side to ask you whether you had seen his beloved cat and the moment he spotted the kitten nestled in your arms his panic expression morphed back into his angelic smile, “Oh there you are kitty!"

He crouched down beside you and joined you in stroking the soft cat’s fur. You couldn’t help but blush when the pair of you looked up at the exact same moment to lock eyes. "Thank you so much for taking care of my dear Kitty.” A slither of a smile made its way to your lips as you observe Mitsunari pick up ‘Kitty’ to examine him for injuries, “You see me, I was so lost in thought while walking back to my room, that I didn’t even see poor Kitty’s tail sticking out from the bottom of the bookcase."

The poor angels face morphed into pain as he recalled the hiss and pained meow Kitty let go of as he sprinted off, startled by the sudden attack. Mitusnari looked at his cat, apologetically, "I’m sorry I stepped on your tail and scared you.” As if all was forgiven, the little kitten rubbed up against Mitsunari and purred. The scene before you was so sweet you couldn’t help but beam at the two cuties.

The moment Mitsunari saw the slighter of a smile pulling at the corner of your lips, he was beyond overjoyed. The pair of you spent the rest of the afternoon together chatting and playing with the little grey kitten. Although the moment Mitsunari spotted the small rash start on your hands, his eyes filled with worry.

The second you saw the man’s gaze fall onto your hands, you immediately hid them away, not because of the rash but instead because of your own insecurities. “Oh I didn’t mean to offend you, I’m sorry for staring, it’s just, are you alright? that rash looked rather sore.” His eyes were filled with genuine concern and his voice held no malic.

You stared at the man in confusion, you had thought that he was staring at your pinky, silently judging it, “You weren’t looking at my pinky?” He shook his head, “Why would I look at your pinky? Has the rash spread to it as well?” his eyes were now staring down at you innocently as he held out his hands for you to place your small one in his.

You slowly brought your hands forward to show the man, “This is why?” It was now Mitsunari’s turn to be confused. He carefully took your hands in his to examine it, bewildered expression crossing his features. “Your hands are so small and cute, I love them. I honestly have no idea what is wrong with your pinky.” The way his amethyst eyes shone with pure innocence told you that what he had said was true.

He clasped your hands in his, as lilac eyes gazed at the small bumps littering your skin. “Now, about this rash?"

You had explained to him that despite your love for cats that you were actually rather allergic. His eyes widened as he pulled you to your feet gently taking hold of your hand. He led you to his room where he pulled out a jar of salve that Ieyasu had made for him a while back, "I was also fairly allergic to Kitty’s fur when I first got him, but I found that this salve that Ieyasu made really helps."

He delicately rubbed the cream into your hands, lost in the same trancelike state he would be in whenever he would read.

It was then that Hideyoshi burst through the door, accusing you of seducing his vassal. Cue your stone-cold bitch face returning.

If it weren’t for Mitsunari’s calm presence, you might have lost it. You were brimming with anger and frustration with the man, for loudly bursting into the room and throwing around accusations. It was then that Mitsunari stood up for you and started singing your praise to Hideyoshi. He told the man what a wonderfully kind soft-hearted person you were and then proceeded to carefully lift up your hand to show him the remnants of the rash on your skin that was quickly fading thanks to the healing properties of the magical salve.

His eyes widened when he had realized he might have misjudged you based off of initial appearance and impressions.

Over time, you had come to love spending time with Mitsunari. Often the two of you would simply just be in the same room and do your own thing. He would read, and you would draw or play music. The two of you were inseparable. Always together doing one or other fun activity.

Your love for shooting and archery actually encouraged Mitsunari to get his nose out of the books more and join you for practice, which surprised many of his fellow warlords.

Mitsunari also loved to listen to your music on the keyboard/piano, this boy will happily sit and listen to any and every melody and song you produce, all while boasting about it to his fellow warlords. His absolute favourite is when you practise in his room while he reads. He love the way the soft soothing melodies wash over him like an ocean of calmness.

The two of you honestly were like two lovesick puppies when you were together, yet both of you too oblivious to the others feelings, landing you in the best friend zone. That is when mama bear Yoshi decided to take things into his own hands.

Through the weeks of knowing you and spending time with you, Mitsunari has only grown into a better person. All the warlords had noticed a change in Mitsunari. He was less absent minded, and he actually started taking better care of himself, thanks to your gentle guidance. After witnessing the positive changes in the castle’s resident angel, the whole castle gets involved in your affairs, trying their best to push you two together.

It wasn’t until one day during a banquet, when Ieyasu decided that enough was enough after watching the two of you, chilling in the corner of the room enjoying each others company and the soft music that played in the background. Mitsunari knew you hated loud noises and crowded, so during these dinners, he would make a point of it to take you to a place in the room that was more chilled and relaxed. After watching the two of you cuties laugh and discuss your favourite books obliviously, Ieyasu finally decided to say something, "Hey you two fluff for brains, can you please stop dancing around the fact that both of you obviously love each other and just get on with it, listening to Masamune and Mitsuhide bet on the two of you like some pack horses is getting irritating.” And with that, the blond porcupine rolled his eyes, scoffed and left the room in a huff.

Both of you were furiously blushing at the porcupine’s comment. You dared to glance up, to take a sneak peek at Mitsunari’s face, and that’s when you saw his eyes brimming with love and affection for you. “You love me?” he looked up at you earnestly, and the second you gave a small nod, he leapt forward to crush you in the warmest of hugs. “I’m so happy! I love you too!”

The two of you giggled and spent the rest of the evening as usual. In fact the only thing that had changed between the two of you since transitioning into a relationship was that Mitsunari would give you an endless amount of cuddles and kisses. After you told him how touched starved you low key were, he was more than happy to show you just how much he loved you through small loving touches and gestures.

This man absolutely loves to hold your small hands in his, in fact he loves your hands. Whether the two of you are out in the markets together or simply enjoying each other company during banquets, he will insist on holding your hand.

This man is also a sucker for comfort, sit on his lap and rest your head in the crook of his neck while he reads and he will melt into a puddle of goo.

HE loves to just hold you in his arms and nuzzle into your hair. Beware this man will attack your face with sweet, playful little kisses. His favourite being small ticklish Eskimo or butterfly kisses.

The two of you cuties could often be found nestled in each other’s arms in the secret garden where the two of you first befriended each other. Both enjoying the warmth and peace of the other company as you would share a lakeside picnic.

I hope you enjoyed this dear!❤❤🌻

#ishida mitsunari #ikesen mitsunari #ikemen sengoku mitsunari #ikesen mitsunari fanfiction #mitsunari ishida #matchups #match ups #mitsunari matchup #submission

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dawnwave16 · 4 years

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Not what I expected

3; 4(here); 4.5 ; 5 ; Pictures for Interlude ; Interlude

Chap 4

“It's confirmed,” she said with a soft smile, then looked at Hotch. “Congrats, Dad, it's a teenaged girl!”

Hotch was driving home to pack extra things into his bag when he realised that he should probably fetch Jack first. After all, if he remembered correctly, Jack was meant to be having an art day at school and the last thing he wanted to do was take Jack on a plane covered in paint and other art supplies. He had requested that Garcia book accommodation for them as the last thing he wanted was to arrive in Paris and find out the was nowhere for them all to stay, so he knew they would be staying in the Grand Paris Hotel, they would pay for their rooms after they arrived though.

That planned he picked up a very messy, yet excited Jack and got everything else that he needed done sorted and met the team at the airport. He was admittedly a bit nervous, after all, he'd just found out he had a teenage daughter and he had no idea if she knew that Tom wasn't her father. The team boarded without any issues and settled in for the flight. Since D.C was 6hrs behind Paris, despite them leaving at 1 pm they would be landing in Paris at 6 pm.

They had been on the plane for about an hour when Reid, who had been quiet for the most part, spoke up.

“I think we should look into Marinette's teacher as well as the two girls Matt mentioned.” Seeing the confused looks he continued, “While it may be possible that the teacher hasn't noticed what is happening with Marinette. If we go by what Matt said about how she seemed relieved that an adult other than her parents believed her, I think we can deduce that the school hasn't supported her. I read through the records about her that Garcia was able to get and her school file indicates that she has almost been expelled a few times since Miss Rossi joined the class. I find that strange because before that she had an almost spotless record there is even a note stating that she is generally quiet but will stand up to bullies. If you then take Frances' policy of emphasising the teacher's authority and how much they stress analytical thinking, it paints a picture of either a weak-willed teacher or one that just doesn't care.”

“I see where you going with this Pretty Boy, you think that the teacher has seen everything that Marinette is going through but instead of trying to help her, she's making Marinette lock away her natural reaction of standing up for herself in favour of trying to maintain the status quo. Marinette has probably tried to speak to her teacher but been told to simply keep quiet, which has then lead to her classmates thinking that she's been reprimanded and that what they are doing is the right thing.” Morgan sounded contemplative as he spoke.

“I could see that happening if the teacher wasn't very experienced with teens or perhaps was better suited to teaching much younger children.” This time it was Prentiss that spoke up. “Garcia can you-”

“Already ahead of you there. Records sent to your tablets but to summerise what I have found this is Caline Bustier's first teaching position, she applied to only teach art as she wanted to gain a bit more experience before teaching full classes. She has a history through her school career of fading into the background whenever there was any conflict near her. Ironically enough she was always found at the scene of a fight but never seen to be directly involved.” Garcia's fingers were flying over the keys of her laptop even as she gave her brief report.

JJ frowned, “Do you guys think she could have instigated those fights only to step back as the fight got bigger? I don't think I'd want to let her near my kids if that was the case.”

“That's presuming the parents knew about her history in the first place,” Reid interjected.

By this stage, Hotch was glad he had had the forethought to pack a tablet with games and movies along with headphones for Jack. He knew how strong Jack's sense of right and wrong was and knew that if Jack heard about what was happening to his big sister he wouldn't be happy. When he had told Jack where they were going and why Jack had just about bounced off the walls even as he promised to be the best little brother in the world. Apparently, some of his classmates had older siblings then themselves and Jack had been jealous of the bond they seemed to share.

The rest of the flight passed in much the same manner with the only pause in the conversation being for their in-flight meal as Jack took his headphones out while he was eating. They spoke about the backgrounds that had been pulled up for each of the people in Marinette's' class and felt they knew which ones would have been swayed and why as well as which ones would keep quiet out of fear. By the time their plane landed, they had agreed they would have to talk to Marinette first but they were pretty sure she would want to change schools to get away from all the negative memories that had been formed by her class.

The trip from the airport to the hotel was also uneventful however that changed soon after their arrival. They checked into the hotel and received their key card and were just about to gather their luggage when something large and scaley ran past them fairly quickly. It stopped near the doors watching them eagerly, it's tail waving wildly. They blinked then Reid broke the silence.

“Either I am seeing things or that is a crocodile. What is a crocodile doing in Paris, let alone in an upmarket hotel?” The team couldn't answer however it seemed they didn't need to as their answer arrived in the form of a teen with Ravens wing blue hair pulled into pigtails walked through the door, only to drop what she was holding as she fell to the floor with a lap full of the reptile.

“FANG!” she yelped. “Hey, silly boy why are you down here and not upstairs with your dad? You know you not allowed out of the room without a lead on. Did you escape just too great me?” Even as she calmed down and spoke, she was rubbing its jaw showing absolutely no fear of it despite its size. She even seemed to scold it through the giggles that were now trying to escape her lips. The huge croc simply rumbled in what could only be described as a purr. Another teen stalked into the reception hall to see what the commotion was, only for a sneer to cross her face.

“Uugh, it's you. Seriously why are you even here?”

“Hello to you too, Chloé. I'm sure I don't have to explain myself to you so instead of fighting, why don't I simply take Fang back to his room and then you don't have to see me.” As she replied to Chloé, she pushed the croc off her lap and gathered the bags that she had been carrying. They seemed to be clothing bags of some description. She then looked up and the BAU realised who the girl was, Marinette. Why was she here on a Friday night? Shouldn't she be at home? Why was she so comfortable around such a large crocodile?

“Fine! Just get out of my sight. This is ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!” The blond, Chloé, spun on her heel, flicked her hair and flounced off. Marinette looked at the BAU and seemed to read their confused faces as confusion over Chloés' behaviour.

“Don't worry about her,” she said reassuringly, “ Chloé is always like that, her father is the mayor and owns this hotel. She was also one of the temporary hero's at one stage so she likes to act like everyone else is beneath her.” She then looked down at the crocodile, “Right, let's go, Fang, your papa is probably pulling his hair out looking for you. I have his and Penny's order with me, they just need to have their final fitting then we can have some more cuddles, how does that sound?” The crocodile pranced in place, acting more like a big puppy rather than the reptile he was, then as Marinette walked towards the elevator he walked next to her, as perfectly behaved as any army dog. As she got the elevator she frowned then looked at them again.

“Since there are so many of you would some of you like to travel up with Fang and me? He's a big softy who wouldn't hurt a fly, I promise.”

Jack immediately started tugging Hotch's hand, “Please Dad? I want to pet him!”

Hotch smiled softly yet worriedly, he was a little nervous for this to be his first interaction with his daughter but his paternal instinct wanted him to get to know her and find out why she was here with garment bags in the first place. JJ noticed his dilemma and volunteered to go up with them. Hotch smiled at her in relief and the three of them joined Marinette just as it arrived so they all piled in. Marinette quickly showed Jack how to pat Fang and the croc seemed to lap up the attention. It was pure chance that they were all going to the same floor so when the doors opened again Marinette let them out first then walked out only to be greeted by an overly loud shout.

“MARINETTE! And you found Fang for me! Rock on!”

@virgil-is-a-cutie for the idea about madam Bustier

@a-marlene-s for all her support! You Rock!

#mlb #miraculous ladybug #criminal minds #beyond borders #lila salt #au bio dad for marinette #marinette #fang

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sasuhinasno1fan · 4 years

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Meeting the older brother- Lukadrien June Day 18

*Looks at cannon that Felix is Adrien’s cousin who’s kind of a troll and you still feel scared about what he could do come next season and throws it over shoulder before picking up Felix is Adrien’s older brother AU* So yeah, that Felix episode kinda made me a bit upset but big brother AUs are still fun. From what the fandom came up with and what is actually cannon, Felix doesn’t get along with Gaberial and with another support system, Adrien feels less happy with his dad and how he’s treated. Everyone loves introducing their So to their protective older sibling. I feel like I could of had way more fun with this but I had to actually work and answer emails today so couldn’t give it my whole attention. Hope you enjoy anyway @lukadrien-june Family

Nino ran down the hall, looking in every classroom. Usually if he had to look for Luka, he’d either look for him next to his other half, looking like a cute couple (not nearly as cute as him and Alya but still) or either with his sister picking at the strings of their guitars. Luka always came to them so they never really learned where his classroom was other than his home room teacher was Mme. Mendeleiev. Finally he stuck his head into another classroom and spotted Luka talking to another classmate.

“Luka! Finally, do you know how long I’ve been looking for you?” he ran into the classroom, only having a delayed reaction to the Luka’s class having a free period. Things would have been really awkward if that wasn’t the case.

Luka looked confused to see his boyfriend’s best friend storming into his class, but like most things, he easily went along with it.

“I’ll talk to you later.” he told his classmate before turning to Nino. “Don’t you have class right now? What are you doing in here?”

“Oh, you found him!” Alya and Marinette came in, all crowding around his side of the desk.

“You all have class right now. What are you doing here?”

“This is important. Did Adrien ask you to come with him to the train station after school today?” Nino asked.

Luka felt confused but answered anyway. “Yeah, why?”

“Did he tell you why?”

Luka shrugged, “Just that he’s meeting someone. He asked me to come and I barely see him so I said yes. What is going on?”

“Well, the person coming to meet Adrien is his older brother. Felix is, well…” Marinette trailed off.

“Scary?” Nino supplied.

“Terrifying?”

“A some how toned down version of his dad but still as unapproachable?”

“Wait, I didn’t even know Adrien had a brother.” Luka cut in before more adjectives could be thrown around.

“Mostly cause his dad pretends he doesn’t exist. Adrien said they got into this huge fight and Felix left to go live with his aunt. He still cares for Adrien and is pretty over protective. When he happened to visit and we met him, he was kinda scary. He looks at you in a way that makes you think he’s gonna tell Adrien to stop hanging out with you and because Adrien loves him he will.” Marinette said.

“Wow, thanks for reassuring me. Besides, I’ve met his dad. I think I can survive an older protective brother.”

“No you can’t. Adrien kinda lost all respect for what his dad thinks like a while ago. His brother on the other hand, let’s just say if it were up to him, he’d be staying with him.”

Ok, now he was getting a little worried. Luka had a few partners that were serious enough to meet their parents. He’d met Gabriel Agreste pretty early on in their relationship. Adrien said he didn’t want to hide Luka and he’d rather them just meet now rather than later. He felt like he was under a microscope when talking to the recluse fashion designer, who honestly he could tell didn’t like him. Nathalie, who Adrien said was family too, seemed ok with him and he was so sure that was the only reason he’d been told to stay away from Adrien. Adrien would tell him how he was sure his mom would of loved him, and he hoped he was right. This Felix guy, he was slightly more concerning. For one, he never knew he existed and with what Adrien classmates and closest friends were telling him, maybe there was a good reason. He sounded like he was Adrien’s most important person.

_____________

“You’re quiet.” Luka looked over at Adrien who was looking at him with a smile. “Does it have anything to do with Marinette, Alya and Nino skipping class after lunch?”

“Am I that obvious?”

“Fe is not as bad as they think. He’s similar to our dad that he frowns a lot but he’s a big softy.” Adrien explained.

“Who I didn’t know existed.” Luka pointed out.

“Most people don’t. My dad pretty much disowned him. He works for my aunt, who my dad doesn’t love.”

“What happened, if you don’t mind my asking?”

Adrien gave a shrug. “I don’t know the whole story since neither will talk about it, but all I know is that they got into a huge fight after mom...left. I think he blames dad for it but dad said something to him that made him leave. He tried to keep us from contacting each other but Fe is nothing if not resourceful. Once we got back in contact, it was great, even better when he could come and see me. Things with Father are, complicated and it feels like half the time even though he’s farther away, Fe is the only family I have. I know I should be grateful for what my dad does, it’s just hard when he’s barely around or doesn’t give me any attention.”

Luka knew his own life was unconventional. He lived in a boat house, under a roof with barely any rules and a mom who worked enough odd jobs to keep them happy, but even then his house still felt full of love. He could see Adrien’s house as a golden cage at times. He was sure Adrien’s father loved him, but his overprotectiveness was suffocating. It wasn’t surprising Adrien liked going to school, if only to get away for a few hours.

“I want to introduce you to Felix because he’s met all the important people in my life. And you’re next.” Adrien said, lacing his fingers through Luka’s.

“Well I’m honoured and I hope I make a good impression.” he hoped he did. This person was Adrien’s closest family and he mattered.

They pulled in front of the station and waiting there was Adrien’s brother, if how he threw himself out of the car was anything to go by. From the looks of it, Felix was an older Adrien, with lighter, more put together hair. While he had a frown on his face, Luka could tell, even without the gentle heart song that played from them both. His eyes were soft and kind.

“Alright, let me go. I have a reputation to uphold.”

“What reputation? For being a brat when you want to be?” Adrien teased.

Felix raised an eyebrow at his brother and picked up a bag sitting on his suitcase, waving it in front of Adrien.

“Want to retract that statement? You’ve got doughnuts on the line.”

“Are those Dum Dums?” Adrien didn’t wait for an answer as he swiped the bag out of his hand. “Felix, best brother ever, it’s so good to see you again.”

“That’s what I thought. Want to introduce me to your friend?”

“Oh, um.” Adrien looked over at Luka, who stood closer. “Fe, this is Luka. My boyfriend. Luka, this is Felix, my older brother.”

“It’s nice to meet you.” Luka said, putting his hand out to shake.

“A pleasure.” Felix answered, shaking his hand in a firm grip. He had the same blank expression his father had first time he met him, but he didn’t feel the cold chill going up his spin. Felix was studying him. “Interesting hair choice.”

“I like blue.” was all he said. No scathing comment about how he dressed so he saw things going well so far.

“The food on the train was abysmal. Is KBCafe open still?” Felix asked his brother as Gorilla came over and took his bag.

“Yeah. Come on. Are you staying at home or...?”

“AirBNB. Aunty’s France home has renovations and I wouldn’t want to bother anyone. You planning on telling me how the two of you met?”

they all climbed in the car, Adrien in the middle and hand laced through Luka’s again.

“Well Luka and I met during a music festival, the one with the different stages. His sister is in my class and he and a few other classmates have a band that was going to perform at the festival.”

“That was with that Hardrock character, correct?”

“My mom. She wasn’t a fan of the tickets she was getting cause of how loud we were.” Luka explained.

“It’s a music festival. Surely it couldn’t be that bad.”

“It was enough to cause slight damage to a few cars.” Luka admitted, worried how that would go down.

“Surely Jagged Stone has done worse.” Felix said, seeming disbelieving that it was as bad as Luka explained it to be.

“Maybe. Who knows with him? Anyway, when I came over, I tripped over a wire and he invited me to come play with them. I became their honorary member whenever I can come over during rehearsal. His house boat has kinda become a place we all hang out at after school so we saw a lot of each other when I could get away. We hung out with just the two of us one time and it kinda grew from there.” Adrien finished explaining.

“So you’ve met my father?”

“I have.”

“And you still stuck around?”

“Well, he’s worth it.” Luka said, smiling down at Adrien, who got red.

“Sap.”

when they arrived at the cafe, Felix cut between the couple and handed Adrien his card. “You order and your boyfriend and I will grab us seats.

He gave his older brother a look. “Be nice. I expect him in one piece and still there when I come out.” he pressed a kiss to Luka’s cheek, whispering good luck. That made him slightly worried.

The guitarist followed the older Agreste over to a free table closest to the walls of the cafe and took a seat.

“Don’t want to sit next to the wall?” Felix asked, noticing he left the seat next to him open.

“Adrien always takes the seat near the wall.”

Felix let out a hum, staring Luka down. “My brother has told me about you. Never your name, but just that he has this rocker boyfriend who was amazing. Let me ask you something, what do your parents do?”

“My mom does a lot of jobs but her most permanent is teaching at a sailing school and waterfront tours.”

“So, if our family did something similar, would you still like Adrien?”

“If your asking if I’m with Adrien because he’s rich, then no. Adrien’s not his family name, he’s just a guy who loves the piano and has a huge heart. That’s why I like him.”

Felix stared some more before smirking at him. “You’ll do I suppose. Don’t think I need to tell you what I can do to you if you upset my brother.”

“If it makes you feel any better, I’d be more scared of you then your dad.”

“Flattery won’t get you everywhere, but it’s a start.”

it was a start. He could tell Felix would be weary of him until he saw different but for right now, he had the approval of Adrien’s closest family member.

#lukadrien june 2020 #felix is adrien's older brother #established lukadrien

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tobythewise · 5 years

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Y’all are fantastic! I was sent 31 different prompts and wrote over 38k words for these. It was so fun and the reactions were great! Here’s the official Masterpost for them all. You can also search 1k celebration on my page :)

Dirty Dancing- Jace/Simon (Rated E)

“Oh god,” Jace whimpers as he looks right into his own face. The surface under his hands being a mirror. Jace sucks in a sharp breath as Simon’s hands find his ass. Jace clears his throat. “How do you wanna do this?” Simon smirks over Jace’s shoulder, the quirk of his lips undeniably sexy. “You know I love you, right?” When Jace nods, Simon adds, “I have every intention of fucking you like I don’t.”

Jeans and Flannels- Destiel (Rated M)

“I’m wearing jeans and a flannel, Cas. I didn’t realize that was a thing for you. Besides, it’s not like I meant to turn you on.” Castiel rolls his eyes, pointing an accusing finger at Dean. “It was not the flannel. It’s what you’re wearing under your jeans and you may not have meant to do it but it has happened nonetheless.”

Like I Don’t- Destiel (Rated E)

“You know I love you, right?” Dean says, his voice deep yet unwavering, completely steady while Castiel shudders and writhes, coming apart at his seams. “I have every intention of fucking you like I don’t.”

Playing Pretend- Dean/Benny (Rated E)

Dean’s walking through the abandoned alley, his spine straightening when he hears footsteps sound behind him. Dean picks up his pace, his belly warming with anticipation. Between one blink and another, Dean’s face presses into the cement building, a warm presence against his back. Hot breath tickles against his ear as a deep, husky voice whispers in his ear, “pretend you don’t like it.”

Enough- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

"I had a nightmare about you, and I wanted to make sure you were alright."

Focus- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

"Quiet or someone will hear you." and "Not until you beg."

‘We What?’- Raphael/Jace/Simon (Rated G)

“Don’t worry,” Raphael says, trying to give Jace a teasing smile that doesn’t quite meet his eyes. “I’m sure he’ll pick you.” “No way,” Jace argues straight away. “If he’s gonna pick one of us it’s gonna be you. You’re way nicer than me. I’m a huge asshole.” “You’re really not. Maybe at first but once someone gets to know you they’ll realize what a softie you secretly are.” “Oh my god, Raph! You can’t just go saying shit like that! I have a reputation to uphold!”

Raphael’s Dork- Raphael/Simon (Rated G)

“Despite what you think, I am completely capable of taking care of myself.” AND “You know, I didn’t ask for any of this. But do you know why I put up with it all? It’s because I love you."

Going Up- Magnus/Alec (Rated G)

The one where they get stuck in an elevator together and flirting ensues.

Medicine and Love Confessions- Destiel (Rated G)

Castiel takes care of his best friend, Dean, while he's sick. Love confessions ensue.

Letting It Slip- Destiel (Rated E)

Dean accidentally lets slip he's interested in calling Cas Daddy in bed and Castiel LOVES it wholeheartedly.

Angelic Captain America- Magnus/Alec (Rated T)

Magus takes care of Alec after he's injected with a serum during a hunt. Alec wakes up, having to learn to deal with the after-effects, which he learns, isn't all bad.

Don’t Cross A Lightwood-Bane- Gen (Rated G)

Max is kidnapped by Camille, who just wants some revenge on Magnus.

Marry Me- Derek/Stiles (Rated G)

Stiles saves Derek. Again. And it makes the alpha realize he doesn't wanna live another day without Stiles always by his side.

In More Than Name- Destiel (Rated E)

Dean Winchester and Castiel Novak are arranged to be married in order to bring together Heaven and Hell. But they both wish for this marriage to be more than a political treaty. When they get to their hotel room, they realize, maybe they truly are a 'match made in Heaven' when they see each other's soulmate marks.

Convincing Sammy- Destiel (Rated G)

Dean uses his best friend in order to convince his little brother he's NOT sad and lonely. But having Cas pressed up against him in a booth has his body responding in the most embarrassing way. Hopefully Cas doesn't notice...

Noone to Fight (But Someone to Love)- Simon/Jace (Rated E)

Simon comes home to find his pregnant mate nesting. Jace complains about having too much energy and nothing to do with it. Simon makes a sexy suggestion.

Spite Date- Destiel (Rated T)

Dean agrees to a blind date set up by Sam. It does not start as expected.

Arrangements- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

Alec and Magnus' arrangement started about a year ago. They lived across the hall from each other, becoming quick friends. Their dating lives sucked so one drunken night, they decided to scratch each other’s itches. Whenever one of them needed some stress relief, the other would provide, no strings attached. Only, a few months in, Alec knew he was falling for Magnus. He desperately wants those strings and every time they sleep together is a struggle not to confess those feelings.

Drama Teachers are Dramatic- Magnus/Alec (Rated G)

Alec agrees to chaperone the high school prom with his drama teacher boyfriend. ‘Drama’ ensues.

Mine and Only Mine- Destiel (Rated E)

Dean gets jealous when a stranger at the bar touches Cas. Dean marks Cas as his in the parking lot. Cas loves every second of it.

Let Me Take Care of You- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

Alec gets himself a Sugar Daddy and through their arrangement, he finds out more about himself and slowly falls in love.

Relaxation- Sam/Gabriel/Rowena (Rated E)

“Are you alright, Darling?” Rowena asks, reaching forward and running her thumb over Gabriel’s cheek. Gabriel feels his walls coming down. He can be the prankster, the clown, the easygoing silly guy, but with these two, he doesn’t feel the need to put on that mask. “I’m alright. I’m just glad I’m home. It’s been a crazy week.” Sam kisses the back of his neck and his body shivers. “We know,” Sam whispers, his hot breath fanning over his ear. He can’t stop himself from squirming in Sam’s lap, groaning when he feels the hot press of Sam’s dick below him. “Since it’s Friday, we thought we’d help you decompress and take care of you.”

Be More Specific- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

Alec doesn’t know what ‘Netflix n chill’ really means until Magnus spells it out for him.

Nothing But the Truth- Jace/Simon (Rated G)

Jace is hit with a truth spell. Simon finds this hilarious until suddenly, it's less funny and more heartfelt.

Church is Alec’s Spirit Animal- Magnus/Alec (Rated G)

Alec follows a certain cat blog on Instagram. It makes him happy, okay?! Izzy finds out and messages said account. The rest is history.

In the Mirror- Magnus/Alec (Rated E)

"I want you to dominate me."

Working Together- Derek/Stiles (Rated G)

Stiles and Derek are trapped in a room together until they can figure out how to work together. Stiles uses this as an opportunity to air out the elephant in the room and finally get to the bottom of what's going on between them.

Truth or Dare- Dean/Benny/Cas (Rated E)

The one where Cas, Benny, and Dean finally get together during a tipsy game of Truth or Dare.

Black Widow’s Got Nothing on Magnus Bane- Magnus/Alec (Rated T)

Magnus is kidnapped. Magnus is also a BAMF.

Kickstarting Labor- Destiel (Rated M)

Benny and Garth try to think of ideas to help a cranky Dean jump start his labor.

#tobywrites #1k celebration #destiel #sterek #jimon #saphael #rjs #malec #sam/gabriel/rowena #fanfic #denny #destiny #thanks everybody who sent a prompt!#1k masterpost

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himbohargreeves · 5 years

Text

hallo here are the hc's i whipped up for the teacher au!! i'm sorry this turned into an essay i'm just a dumbass who loves soft teacher au a lot!!

“not sure what the others would teach in this teacher au tho-” *wakes up in the dead of night with cold sweat* *kicks down the door* I HAVE SOME THOUGHTS!!

oh boy…get ready….cause it’s A LOT

- Submitted by @katgreeves

luther: physics teacher, cause you know…spaceboy……everyone is scared at the beginning of the year when they get him as a teacher cause he’s TALL AND HUGE AS FUUUUUCK, but then fast forward two months later and everyone is chill because turns out he’s a really easygoing and soft teacher…just really socially awkward and lowkey dumb sometimes

asshole kids in his classes use his softness to his disadvantage and pull pranks on him constantly, poor guy….the other kids tho always tell them to shove it tho because he may be soft and dumb and socially awkward but he’S OUR SOFT AND DUMB AND SOCIALLY AWKWARD TEACHER DON’T TOUCH HIM!! the first time they protected him he had to remind himself not to tear up because HE FELT SO LOVED!!!!

he gets them snacks even if they’re not supposed in the science classrooms because “eXPeriMENts and CHEmIcALsSsSsssSS!!!” and will rant for hours about space and starts and THE MOOOOON cause when he was a kid he always wanted to be an astronaut ( :’))))))) ) and his kids get fed up one day and go “why don’t you just make an astrology club mr luther????” and he does and IT’S A REAL SUCCESS WITH THE SCHOOL BODY YAY!!!

(five when he grows up also becomes a physics teacher and pesters luther all the time like “I AM 10 TIMES THE TEACHER YOU EVER WERE-” “NO YOU AREN’T STFU” and he’s technically wrong and right because material wise??? yes he’s 100% the better teacher and he always has answers to the kids questions and teaches them extra content cause he’s always been a genius but as a physics teacher that kids really like????? no siree that title goes to luther because he was a soft teddy bear to his students and they trusted him while five is eccentric and strict the the point where his kids are scared the FUCK out of him)

diego: pe teacher, SWEARS SO MUCH IN FRONT OF THE KIDS IN CLASS OMG HOW IS HE NOT FIRED YET?? is tough on the kids sometimes so push harder but IS ALSO SOFT AND REALLY ENCOURAGING THE KIDS TO WORK AND TRY THEIR BEST BECAUSE HE BELIEVES IN THEM!!! (except for the group of cocky assholes he’ll get in every class and don’t want to listen to them…he has personally removed their rights in the class)

whenever the self-defense unit comes around he’s sooooo dedicated to it and makes sure that the kids master everything to a t, cause who knows when it might come in handy??? he wants to make sure that the kids know how to protect themselves as the world is a shitty place and you never know when shit will go bad (except he does…he’s had enough bullshit and scared happen to him and has gotten involved in so many fights that he wants to make sure that the kids won’t hurt like him :“’))))))))) )

he’s a secret softie that will protect the kind kids that are not as good at pe and get bullied by the cocky assholes in the class becAUSE THAT’S JUST WHAT HE WOULD DO NO IM NOT SELF PROJECTING OF WHAT I WANTED OUT OF MY PE TEACHERS SHUT U-

also eudora is a pe teacher and the two of them are very competitive to be the best pe teacher and this rivalry turns into playful flirting and big ass crushes that they’re way too stubborn to admit, the entire school still ships it anyways (the entire school also ships klaus and dave because gay rights!!!!!)

allison: either school counselor or principal i can’t decide because she can be super kind and open to talk and gives advice that helps a LOT but she’s also a hbic THAT CAN AND WILL run the place.

anyways, whatever job she has, she also helps with the drama club and school plays, and literally every year the theatre kids BEG HER to kick out the current drama teachers and replace them because allison>>>>>>>>>>>> all of the existing drama teachers there

ben: is either a literature or philosophy teacher. super smart and knowledgable but is also really laid back and fun to talk to. he’s got a dark and snarky sense of humor and his students always have sass battles with him. the number of INSANE inside jokes his students and him share is HUGE.

HE DEMANDS THAT HIS STUDENTS PARTAKE IN READING TIME IN THE BEGINNING OF CLASS NO MATTER WHAT THEY HAVE TO DO BECAUSE READING IN AN IMPORTANT SKILL AND HOBBY FOR DEVELOPMENT AS A READER, WRITER, LEARNER, AND OVERALL PERSON AND NO AMY DON’T ROLL YOUR EYES AT ME I’M THE TEACHER HERE AND I SAID NO ELECTRONICS SO PUT THE GODDAMN PHONE AWAY BEFORE I COME OVER THERE AN-

anyways…he is really considerate to what students need and makes them as relaxed as possible because school is HELL. students LOOOOOVE HIM. HE’S THE ONE TEACHER BESIDES DAVE THAT LITERALLY EVERYONE LIKES. (highkey inspired by my philosophy and lit teachers because they’re also really smart but sassy and cool like ben and I JUST THINK THEY’RE NEAT)

vanya: strings orchestra teacher for obvious reasons. she was real shy at first when she first got hired but the the strings department at that time was soooo small and crappy that she went “oh HELL no,” rolled up her sleeves, and set to revitalize it just because she cares about music so much.

she recruited more students, got more advanced music so the kids could feel a challenge and be motivated to improve, and collaborated with the choir and band departments to provide more clubs, events and opportunities outside of class for kids to do music.

she is a no business type of teacher when it comes to arrogant people that put other players down or people who don’t practice and goof around and will snap at them SO HARD because everyone needs to be at their a game for a concert and in an orchestra no single person is bigger that the collective. she’s however SOOOO SOFT with really soft playing and shy kids because she understands how it feels when you think your playing isn’t good enough, so gives them extra help, gives them solo lines or solos to play so they gain more confidence in themselves, all while constantly giving encouraging words about how much they’ve improved that always makes them feel better and more motivated to improve.

she’s an absolute anxious and cranky maniac a week before the concert but she throws parties with food, drinks, and games afterwards to celebrate with her kids. she constantly gets them to play music related games and challenges that they do as a class for team bonding to make things more entertaining in class. she makes dumb music puns a lot too!

she also will in the class say crazy stories of her childhood and the crazy shit she and her siblings did and then somehow always relate it back to the lesson and make it some sage advice…the kids never understand how she does it

(me???? self projecting more of my teachers into this au cause they’re cool??? more likely than you think)

also one day she chops her hair real short and cute and the conversation with her students basically went like this:

students: miss vanya you cut your hair???

vanya: yes kids I’m a lesbian

students: !!!!!!!!!!!!

vanya: ;))))))))

students: MISS VANYA SAID GAY RIGHTS!!!!

vanya: HELL YE I DID!!!

bonus grace yayyyy!!!!!: is the school nurse…she’s so sweet, so soft….has precisely whatever people need when they feel sick/injured…helps them calm down in they’re freaking out…always has a couple of beds in the nurse’s office so people can lie if they feel dizzy…gives out candy/sweets/food to people so they feel better!!

diego meets her a lot because a lot of kids in his class gets injuries and he takes them to the nurse and he jUST LOVES HER SM!!! INSTANT MOM FIGURE!! THEY TALK AND JOKE AND LAUGH TOGETHER AND GRACE WILL ALWAYS GIVE HIM A PASTRY SHE MADE WHENEVER HE COMES BY AND HE JUST IS SO SOFT AROUND HER ITS GREAT (his students find his sudden change in his demeanour amusing “hey mr diego is nurse grace your MMMmoooOoOooOOOmMMMMMMmmmmmM??” “kid your a good one but say that shit to me one more time and I will beat the sh-”)

she always has a smile on her and everyone LOVES HER…..except for the administration that always want to get her fired because they are assholes and they think she’s too weird to stay. however, every time they try to fire her, a certain teacher comes by the office for what they claim is a civil discussion...and after an hour of yelling, death threats, and the door getting 10 knife marks they go “you know what grace…you can stay"

those assholes are persistant though, and one time though not even a certain teacher could get them away from firing her so once the news breaks out that nurse grace is leaving the whole school is FURIOUS and throws a 1 week riot and the administration get so scared and tired that they just go "OK WERE SORRY JUST KIDDIN- OK OK SHE’S STAYING FOR GOOD JESUS”

grace is so grateful that she makes a whole bunch of cake for everyone and everyone with tears in their eyes just goes “this…is why we love you sm nurse mom”

~~okkkieee that’s the end of it sorry it’s a literal essay I just got very passionate about this au lmao rip!!! I’m slowly tempted to write a fic about it even though i’ve never written a fic before in my LIFE and I already have like 3 other au fic ideas in my head already smh

#NURSE MOM #tua #katgreeves #submission #teacher au

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espship18 · 4 years

Text

Kpop ship for angellus

Hey y’all heyyyyy :3 How are y’all? It’s not even 10 am yet as I’m writing this and I’ve had one heck of a day~ I am here with a ship for @angellus ! I’m excited for this ship, so let’s do this!

Based off of your request, I learned these things about you:

You’re 5′2 with curly brown hair and green eyes

You’re quiet but you can get very quirky and lovable

A joke crakcer omg hit me up I got some good ones!

A big ol’ softie

Interest/hobbies include: watching movies, reading, drawing, and cooking

In uni, studying film

And you’re also family oriented

And in your request, you asked to be shipped with EXO, Got7, iKon, and NCT! I am hekka excited for this ship so sit down, buckle up, and here we go!

EXO: Chanyeol

Okay so this is only group one, but I am already so smitten over you and Chan. I don’t wanna do the normal tall or short ordeal but come on, the height difference is so stinking cute and it’s the cherry on top as to why I love you two so much. You also get a gentle giant all to yourself, what is there not to love?! You two combined as a couple, you two would be so proactive. Like, you’re in school, learning new languages, going around the world for internships, Chanyeol has his career in full swing, and you two are heavily involved in each others career paths. Your career hopes is just an add in to Chanyeol’s career, so like, there wouldn’t be a doubt in my mind that you’re with Chanyeol at his work whenever you can be, and it’s just a great learning opportunity! You’re literally getting so much experience in different parts of film and producing, and Chanyeol would literally show you and every opportunity he could! And our Channie is a smart boy, and he loves to learn as well, so there is no doubt in my mind that Chanyeol would like to dabble into your interests as well and see you take charge in an area he’s not very good in. And I think a really cute example of Chanyeol taking you along to work with him would be taking you to a variety show filming. Chanyeol would be an even extra crackhead that day too, so on top of seeing the industry and Chanyeol, it was a perfect day. And I will be the first to say that Chanyeol is going to treat you like a queen, he’ll even get you a staff and crown, and that’s a big ol’ truth bomb right there. He’s needy, he’s respectful, he’s gentle, lovable, he’s just everything anymore that you could’ve asked for. He would be thinking about you always, and if he was out or you were away, he would get little trinkets of things that reminded him of you. Whether it’s from your birthstone to a little camera key chain, you would have this big collection of bit and bobs from your special man. Another reason that Chanyeol is a king is because he makes time for you every week, at least once a week. For a good like, five or six hours, it’s you and Chanyeol time, and you can either go out, stay home, hang out in his studio, the world is literally your oyster. Hell, sometimes you two will literally stay home and sleep and get tangled up in each others limbs you’re so cuddled in with each other. PDA wise with Chan is all about height. He loves how there’s almost a whole 12 inch difference between you, and he would love to rest his chin on your head, playfully use your shoulders as an arm rest, or he would hug you and lift you up so he could give you kisses.

Got7: Jaebum

Moving right along, I can already tell that you two are more mild when compared to you and Chanyeol, but your bond gets even closer the more you stay in. Although you would be more than comfortable with Jaebum, your quieter side would come out more with him, and your chill vibes would work in unison with Jaebum’s perfectly! And of course, you and Jae would have the same ol’ super sweet puppy love that we all know when it comes to my blog. Omg, imagine if you two were like a business couple. Like you and Jae would work together with his Def Soul projects, whether it would be you two choosing the album or you filming some behind the scenes of really candid moments of Jae writing lyrics and recording, you two would do it all! And omg imagine making merch! That would be so stinking fun OMG! Jae would make all kinds of different bucket hats and you would make fun t-shirts and then you two would make the campaigns and do the merch shots for the website and you two would be completely self made and it’s such a badass moment for you two! Like you two would be absolute couples goals and I am living for you two. When it comes to being social, I can see you two being more of an introverted couple. You two would enjoy staying home and watching crime shows on Netflix, but that doesn’t mean that you’re completely hermits. You two would go on museum trips and go on double dates with your friends. Jaebum would also like to take you on little shopping trips, just one way he would show you his appreciation. Okay listen, imagine if he got you a pair of pearl earrings omg. I think that would be the most expensive thing you would allow him to buy because you’re not materialistic, and a pair of pearls is like a HUGE investment, and you’d wear them practically every day. Another detail I would like to add, is that I think you two would have that teacher/learner type of relationship. I think it would be sweet if Jae would want you to teach him how to draw. He would like to watch you doodle and HOLY CRAP, IMAGINE GIVING HIM SHARPIE TATTOOS!!! You would put them on his hands or arms and I can grantee your little tattoos would have iGot7′s losing their shits. I promise I’m not trying to be all over the place, I’m just so excited about you two! You’re also Jae’s #1 mullet supporter. Like, Jae would keep his mullet for as long as he did because of you. You would give JAe so much confidence and he would keep his mullet. PDA wise, the softest knuckle kisses, soft and secure hugging, and he would always would keep you close because you are tiny. I love you two so much I gotta stop~~~

iKon: Donghyuk

Okay, family, children, Donghyuk, ohhh girl, you’re getting it all- this man has everything you could ever need! As a couple, you and Hyuk would be a good balance of wild and mild and your aesthetics would work well together in my professional opinion. When it comes to you and Donghyuk, all I can think of is family. Whether it’s your family, Donghyuk’s family, and even iKon, you two are such a family oriented couple that I wanna sob it’s so sweet. Once your family would fall in love with Donghyuk imagine your little cousins asking if Dongjyuk is coming. I can definitely see your little cousins falling in love with Hyuk because at family gatherings, you and Hyuk would play tag with the kids and let the kids climb all over you two, and they would like to play pirates or something super cute, and you two would play along so well and the kids just love you two. OO OO! This is the best part, imagine Donghyuk’s mom sending you care packages, and she would always ask you to take care of her son while he’s working, and you two would be best friends. She would also give you some of Donghyuk’s favorite recipes that his mom makes so you can comfort him when he feels homesick. Hehe, and imagine you and his mom getting lunch together and getting pedicures together, so cute! Then you have iKon to take care of, which to be honest you really become a second mom with Hanbin around and you take care of all seven of those crack heads, but they love you to death and you love them back. Moving onto another part of your ship for Donghyuk, I think it would be really cute if you two were big jokesters with each other. Like the king and queen of puns and jokes. And heck, since there is a family theme to this ship.. DAD JOKES! Imagine Donghyuk having a daily subscription to some website where they send him jokes throughout the day, Hyuk would spitting out those jokes like no bodies business. Keeping you smiling is always on the agenda~ Date nights I feel like would be at home and private. Date night would be reserved for you and Hyuk time, mostly because of where you two are out so much. Movie nights would be a perfect type of date night, simply because it’s chill and a good building block for a great date night. Get some good take out and blankets, boom, you have a great date night! Lastly PDA, he’s so gentle and soft with you. He loves to hug you close and sway you side to side, telling you how much he loves you. Then he would have this lil habit of twirling you, so sweeeeet~

NCT: Taeyong

Last but certainly not least, we have NCT. Once again I am in love with this ship so much. And I will go on a whim here and say that you and Tae have more than puppy love, you have smitten kitten love. You would be the rock that holds Taeyong down. You would be one of the few non-work related things that would help Taeyong relax and we all know that Taeyong needs some real relaxation time. Straight up be prepared for some major snuggle time with Tae. I’m not saying Taeyong is submissive or anything, this is not the blog for that conversation lol, but, Taeyong would be more needy for your affection and your touch, because where he’s real emotionally dependent on you. Which like it’s Taeyong we’re talking about, it’s an honor to have him want to snuggle on you. You would have that magic that Tae would crave to help him relax, and he would always want to come back for more. When it comes to couple activities, I think it would be really sweet if you and Tae had a little bit of an old school type of love aesthetic going on. Tae’s the sweet gentleman who gives you his jacket on warm nights and sometimes date night would be playing monopoly til three am and you two pass out on the floor. And omg it would be hecca cute if Tae would have to get one of the other NCT members to watch the Dreamies so you two couple be alone on date night. Moving right along, when I say this, I don’t mean this to sound negative or anything, but I can imagine Taeyong would sleepy for the first couple days or hours when you two would be together. His adrenaline and stress would diminish dramatically and he would be exhausted. You would come to the rescue though because you would be the pillow for Taeyong to sleep on, and you could relax while he rests. You could read a new book you got, or do homework on your laptop. And then when Taeyong wakes up, he’s refreshed and ready to go out. If you two aren’t having a game night, Taeyong would cook you two dinner. Him taking over date night would be like a sign of love he would show to you. Then he would make a dessert made to be shared for two, and you’d eat the dessert together. And for fun, let’s throw in some slow dancing because you it’s the most perfect classic old school love date activity. Lastly, PDA wise, Taeyong would not be able to keep his hands off of you! Tae would always love to have his arm wrapped around you tight, he would come up behind you and give you back hugs, and if you were walking and he wanted a hug, he wouldn’t let go of you til you hugged him, so you would be dragging Taeyong along you like a puppy, hehe. You two are adorable!

I used to do outro’s but I stopped and I wanna bring them back~ I had so much fun shipping you omg. I may or may not have guessed your biases, but I shall support your loves and these loves no matter what! Lemme know how I did, and I hope you have a wonderful day! <3

~STA

#angelus x idol ship #kpop #kpop writing #kpop ships #kpop ship blog #shipping blog #kpop reactions #exo #got7 #ikon #NCT #exo ships #got7 ships #nct ships #ikon ships #chanyeol #jaebum #Donghyuk #taeyong

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evilrubberducke · 5 years

Text

Sweeter than Candy

I got the idea of Izuku and Mina cuddling while watching a movie marathon, and thus this fic was born. Expect plenty of tooth aching fluff, as the name would imply. Hope you enjoy!

Summary: Mina worked hard in the lead-up to midterm exams. Now, with the exams concluded, it's time to celebrate, and what better way to do that than with an all day movie marathon with her boyfriend?

Read it on AO3!

“This seems like overkill” Izuku said as he watched Mina add another handful of snacks to the already enormous pile.

In truth, it probably was too much. Izuku stuck to his diet pretty religiously, and she wouldn’t be able to eat all of these on her own. That wasn’t the point though. Today was about indulgence, and she was going to splurge

“Nah.” Mina responded. “Overkill would be having to spend every waking minute not already devoted to hero training to studying math. Can you imagine? That would just be the worst.” As she spoke, her voice became more and more deadpan.

Izuku looked concerned by her tone of voice and stepped over to give her a comforting hug. It was unnecessary, but Mina enjoyed it nonetheless. She hadn’t done any testing, but she would be willing to bet good money that Izuku gave the best hugs in the class. He had a way of completely wrapping you in his warm arms that was just amazing.

“It was worth it though, right?” Izuku said softly into her ear.

“Yeah...” It had been, but that didn’t mean Mina wasn’t allowed to be salty about it.

Exam season was always a trying time at any school, but that went double for UA. As future heroes they were expected to maintain satisfactory grades while keeping up with their regular training, and preparing for whatever ridiculous practical exam their teachers had managed to concoct.

In addition to all that, Mina had had a personal goal. She was tired of being one of the only failing students in her class. Even Mineta was pulling better grades than her for god's sake!

So, she had given up a huge chunk of her personal time to prepare. She’d missed the season finale of her favorite reality show, she hadn’t gone to an arcade in weeks, and she had even sworn off pranks in the lead up to the exams.

She’d spent hours under Yaomomo’s careful tutelage, and even more time studying with Izuku after school every day as she tried to cram increasingly arcane formulas and facts into her poor brain. It had been a slow, horrifically boring process, but she had put her all into it. She’d even tried sleeping with her textbook under her pillow, in the hope that she would somehow absorb some knowledge by osmosis, a subject she now vaguely understood thanks to her wonderfully patient tutors.

When the exam had finally rolled around, Mina had felt more nervous about it than she had ever felt for a test before. Her mind had been horrifyingly blank, like all the knowledge she’d scraped together had fled in a fit of pique.

Then, almost miraculously, she’d known the answer to the first question. And the one after that as well. As she’d gotten further in, she'd started to feel more and more confident. Sure, she wasn’t getting every question, but most of the ones she didn’t know could be narrowed down to just two possible answers. It had felt good, like she was catching up to everyone else, instead of being left behind like always.

When Aizawa finally called time she had collapsed, happy but totally drained.

She had thought that the lead up to the exam would be the worst, but the aftermath was much more intense. Instead of being able to completely relax once she was done, like she had previously, Mina was left with a vague sense of anxiety about her performance that left her repeating the questions she already knew she had gotten wrong over and over in her head, trying to puzzle them out and failing miserably.

<I wonder if this is what Izuku feels like all the time> She had thought to herself <If so, I owe him a big apology for every time I joked about how anxious he was.>

Aizawa, at least, was prompt with his grading. They had their tests graded on their desks by the end of the day.

Mina had slowly flipped her paper over, wanting to put off seeing the grade for as long as possible. Then shrieked with delight when she saw the big B- in the corner. Sure, it was far from the highest grade in the class, or even the highest grade she had gotten in her life, but it was the highest grade she had gotten since coming to UA, and that was an accomplishment in its own right.

And an achievement like that deserved a celebration!

Thus, she had assembled a small mountain of snacks ranging from chips to chocolate to sodas of several varieties. She had also put together a leaning tower of movies from all sorts of different genres. Feel good romance movies made up a significant percentage of the stack. They would be great for setting a lovely mood for her and Izuku. And a nice palate cleanser after the classic horror triple feature she had planned midway through the day.

Lastly, she had borrowed every spare pillow that she could find in the dorms and arranged them into a fortress for her and Izuku to snuggle in while they binged.

In short, Maestro Mina had concocted the perfect day for destressing, and she was going to milk it for all it was worth.

She might have overestimated the amount of snacks they would need, but she had definitely underestimated the amount of tissues Izuku would go through. He was midway through the first box before the first movie had even ended.

“Sorry” He sniffled, dabbing at his eyes once more. “It’s just ...they were so in love, and then ...it was just so sad!” He broke into a fresh round of sobs at the thought.

They had started off the night with a classic animated movie about a man who flew his house away on an adventure with an astounding number of balloons. Mina was fairly certain that such a feat was impossible unless he was distantly related to Uraraka, but she wasn’t going to criticise since it made for a pretty awesome visual.

She wrapped her arms around Izuku, pulling him into a comforting hug as she patted his head. It was sweet that he was such a softie, and that he felt comfortable enough around her that he didn't feel the need to hide it. It made her feel special.

Although, they were definitely going to need more tissues if things went according to plan. This wasn’t even close to the biggest tearjerker she had planned for their marathon.

Mina could feel Izuku nodding off beside her, head dipping slightly as he struggled against the sandman. She didn’t blame him. Lunch had been both tasty and super filling, which meant it was threatening to drag her off to dreamland as well. As pleasant as it would be to take a nap right then and there in Izuku’s arms, Mina had other plans.

Days like this didn’t come often, and that meant she had to enjoy every second of it.

Instead, she stood up and stretched. Izuku shook a bit of the drowsiness from his face and looked at her curiously. She merely smiled innocently at him as she made her way to the TV.

Izuku was a little bit too trusting sometimes. He wanted to think the best of people, and that let them take advantage of him from time to time. Mina didn’t abuse that trust, that would be immoral, but she did occasionally take advantage of it to make Izuku’s life just a little more interesting.

Her plan for today involved introducing him to a classic in B movie horror that was sure to get his blood pumping and wake him right up. It was time for the horror block to begin!

Mina silently cackled to herself as she slid the movie in.

Izuku obviously knew that something was up with her. After nearly a year together, they were both getting better at reading the other’s body language, and he had gotten adept at recognizing her ‘I’m having fun pranking someone’ smile as a survival mechanism.

It took him right up until the title ‘Night of Screams 2: The Revenge of Screamtopia’ to realize what she was planning, and by that point, it was far too late.

Quick as a whip, she snaked her legs through his, tangling them together and preventing him from getting up unless she let him.

“Minaaaaaa!” He cried as he clawed at the floor. She did notice, however, that despite being much stronger than her, he made no real attempt to get free.

“Shush you. I told you the quadratic formula was terrifying, and you made me memorize it anyway. Consider this my vengeance!” She put on her best evil villainess face as she spoke. The effect was ruined by the smile she couldn’t keep off her lips, but she felt it was important to make the effort all the same.

He moaned inarticulately in response as the opening credits began to play.

Mina hummed in response, and wrapped her arms around her boyfriend once again. “Tell you what, if you get scared, you can snuggle up to me and I’ll make it all better, ok?”

It took a moment, but she finally heard a muffled “Kay” from below her.

She smiled in triumph. It had taken a lot of effort to get here, but it really was good to be the Queen.

“You doing ok back there Izuku?” Mina asked.

No response came, though Izuku clutched more tightly to her back as a shriek rang out from the TV. Another innocent down as the monster continued it’s furious rampage. It was over the top, and for a horror buff like Mina, it was nothing she hadn’t seen a thousand times before.

Izuku, however, was having a much tougher time of it. It was kind of funny. They had faced terrifying villains like Shiguraki and his Nomu, and Izuku had barely flinched. She’d even heard from Uraraka that he’d stayed calm when Shigaraki had him by the neck during the incident at the Kiyashi mall incident, trying to prevent anyone from getting hurt in the crossfire. And now, here he was cowering from some cheap blood and jump scares.

As he flinched again, Mina relented. She had planned a trio of films for the day, and while she was enjoying having Izuku clinging to her, it was obvious Izuku wasn’t having nearly as good of a time as she was.

A comedy then. One that would get him flashing that smile she loved so much once again.

Just ...in a minute or two. She really loved the part coming up, and after all, it wasn’t like Izuku would keel over from just a little more gore, would he…?

“Mina, I’m not sure how good an idea this is” Izuku said hesitantly. “There’s a real choking hazard.”

“Pfffft! My big brother and I used to do this with jawbreakers all the time, and we’re both fine! Now, hit me with your best shot!” Mina called, tilting her head back once more.

She was sitting at the foot of her bed, while Izuku was at the top, holding a bag of candy in one hand and wearing a worried expression.

Finally, at her continued insistence that she would be fine, he tossed one of the candies lightly toward her. It wasn’t a great throw, and Mina had to lunge to the side, but she managed to catch the candy in her mouth. She swallowed it quickly, then grinned at Izuku in triumph.

He smiled back at her, the look of nervousness fading somewhat in the face of her victory.

“Toldja I could do it!” She proclaimed. “I’m the candy catch master! It was part of how I trained my reflexes for UA. Now why don’t you give me a real challenge?” She winked as she said it. Technically, the line about it being reflex training was BS, but it sounded almost reasonable enough to be true, so Mina stuck with it.

Shaking his head, Izuku readied another candy to throw. They were a brand of chocolate coated berries that Mina found absolutely delicious. In fact, she was having such a hard time not scarfing the whole bag that she had proposed the game as a way to slow down her consumption rate.

Izuku’s next throw went wide again, but this time Mina wasn’t able to catch it with her lips. Instead it came plummeting directly into her right eye.

She flinched, the offending candy bouncing to the floor as she reached up to rub at her eye, trying to work the irritation out manually.

“Are you okay?” Izuku said, rushing to her side. “I didn’t mean to hurt you!” he said, taking her head gently in his hands and peering into her eye, checking for damage.

“I’m fine Midori.” She said, chuckling slightly at his response despite the minor pain she was feeling. At this point, she was more than used to enduring small pains thanks to all their hero training. There wasn’t a day that went by where she didn’t pick up some minor scrape or cut. Sure, the accidental eye attack had stung, but the irritation was already fading.

Izuku seemed satisfied that he hadn’t accidentally put her eye out. He sighed in relief, but he kept his hands on the sides of her head, and his eyes stayed locked on hers.

“Midori?” She asked, as the moment of silence dragged on. “You okay in there?”

He smiled softly at that, and let go of her head, turning his face slightly away from hers as he did so. “Sorry. I just…” He turned his face back to hers, and she could see that his cheeks were dusted with red. “I always forget how pretty your eyes are, so when I see them up close like that, I get distracted.” He idly poked the tips of his index fingers together as he spoke.

Now it was Mina’s turn to blush, a brilliant lilac filling her cheeks as her heart started to beat faster. <Being that cute has to be illegal>

She pulled Izuku into a tight hug and planted a firm kiss on his cheek, which caused him to light up like a christmas tree, just like he did every time she kissed him. It was another one of his cute habits that she had picked up on rather quickly after they had started dating. He reacted to every bit of affection like it was the first time he had received it.

It did make her a bit sad, thinking about how lonely he must have been growing up, if that was the way he reacted. He’d told her a bit about his childhood, how he hadn’t had any friends since his Quirk had come in so late and they had thought he was Quirkless.

Instead of letting the sadness overwhelm her, Mina took the opposite approach. She hugged Izuku even tighter, kissing his cheeks, his forehead, his eyes, and his ears until he was giggling at her to stop. She’d make up for the lack of affection, or her name wasn’t Mina Ashido, girlfriend extraordinaire.

Izuku looked down at Mina’s gently snoring form. She had passed out a few minutes ago, exhaustion finally overtaking the ludicrous amount of sugar and caffeine she had been inhaling all day.

When Mina Ashido partied, she didn’t do it half way.

Smiling, he pulled the blankets up over her shoulders, tucking her comfortably into bed. The pair had changed into pajamas as the day had worn into evening, so there was no need to worry about mussing her clothes.

She sighed contentedly in her sleep, shifting slightly to get into a more comfortable position.

As he leaned down to plant a good night kiss on her forehead, he could hear her mutter something in her sleep.

“Wanna go in the haunted house next…” She whined softly.

He could only chuckle at that. One of their first dates, before they had officially become boyfriend and girlfriend, had been to Universal Studios Japan. They had been more than a little nervous going in, given their previous experience at a similarly named location.

However, it had turned out excellently. They had both had tons of fun, going on all kinds of rides until they had felt slightly nauseous, checking out the scenery, and buying overpriced gag gifts for their friends and classmates. It had even ended with them sharing their first properly romantic hug, just before they returned to the dorms.

Knowing that she was dreaming about being on a date with him, despite spending nearly the entire day with him made his chest feel warm and full.

He leaned in the rest of the way, planting a soft kiss on her forehead.

She sighed in contentment and snuggled deeper into her pillows.

<How did I get so lucky?> He thought to himself as he flicked off the lights.

Just before the door clicked shut behind him, he whispered something that even Jirou would have had trouble hearing from across the room.

“Good night Mina. I love you with all my heart…”

With that, he padded off to his own room, excited to spend the rest of the day with Mina, in the world of his dreams.

Also available on AO3!

#izumina #mha #mha fanfiction #fluff #slice of life #mina ashido #midoriya izuku #movie night #two dorks in love #bnha #bnha fanfiction #my hero academia #fanfiction #dekumina #minadeku

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matt-skc-rp · 4 years

Text

*Makeup* “It’s Too Cold For This”|| Youniversity Advent Day 27

Matt watched Arin walk into the room and then felt a nudge from Ray by his side. “Bet you my term paper that he’s coming from the nurse’s office” he chided, watching the boy with a gross bruise on his neck and a black eye.

“Mr. Hanson, glad you could join us,” the teacher said, turning around, “Oh my go-”

“I’m coming from the nurse,” Arin quickly blurted, taking his hair out of the ponytail and letting it flop to his face and blush.

“You could be coming off of the street and I wouldn’t care. You’re late again and you know that means you have detention.”

“Yea...” he said, but heard a giggle coming from the front, her legs swinging freely.

“Something funny about me reprimanding your colleague, Ms. Howson?” the teacher asked.

“Fuck..what grade do you want?” Matt sucked his teeth lightly, sighing.

“Uhh..passing is fine,” Ray said with a chuckle, biting his lip, “Check out your girlfriend.”

“Ray! Shush...she’s not my girlfriend..” Matt jumped up, but trained his eye towards the girl sitting in her uniform skirt and the short sleeve thin collared shirt with a sweater vest and long coloured balayage hair. She was adorable while she read her book, but she looked uncomfortable, restless. He wondered what the problem was.

“Earth to Matt....Helloooo..”

“Matthew,” the teacher barked, which caused him to jump with pure surprise, “It’s impolite to stare. And even more impolite you’re making Ray disrupt my class because you’re gawking at a girl.”

The class erupts into laughter, causing Matt to roll his eyes.

“Sorry,” he spoke less confidently and leaned back slightly.

“Can we all act like adults and show up for class on time and keep our eyes in respectable places during school hours?..Thank you!” he turns around and continues on his lecture.

“Thanks Ray,” Matt says.

“I was tryna warn you.”

In the boy’s locker room, they changed into their gym uniforms and bantered on.

“Yo what’s with you staring at the new chick?” Mark asked, spraying on deodorant.

“Her thighs are thicc, I’ve stared at those hams once or twice,” Felix jumped in, closing his locker, “Her and Suzy got some of the thickest thighs in this whole school!”

“Hey man, don’t talk about Suzy like that!” Arin interjected, but it seemed to fall on deaf ears.

“Did yall see what she was reading?” Matt finally chimed in, “She was reading Hemmingway. Before that she was reading cummings. She reads a different book every day. And she hums songs that I know..”

“Wow..you noticed all of those things?” Ray asked, looking at him, “Hopefully you’re as observant when you write my paper this weekend.”

“Your history paper?” Sean asked, “Why does he have to write it?”

“Well why does Arin have a black eye and a noticeable bruise?” Ray asked.

Jeremy gave Arin a look and nudged him, showing that he was quite curious himself.

“You get into a fight?” Mark asked, closing his locker.

“Your parents gave you a shakedown?” Danny asked, handing Thomas his gym shirt.

“No..” Arin answered more annoyed but still very passive.

“Why did Shawna think your injuries were so funny?” Shane asked, “Was she there?”

“Y-Yeah..Hey Felix, I mean it, don’t talk about Suzy like that,” Arin said and repeated himself since he had the floor.

“Uhm..I’m sorry, didn’t she dump you?..Coulda swore you fucked that up!” Felix responded energetically, “And if you must know I mentioned it as a compliment, I wasn’t disrespecting her or objectifying her body.”

“Oh yeah? What makes you think she wants to hear that?” he bit back, rage growing in his chest, slamming his locker.

“What makes you think you need to know?” Felix asked, walking up to him, looking down at the boy, “I’ll give you another black eye for breaking her fucking heart.”

“Alright, a fight,” Dan beamed quietly straightening his posture.

Phil, Thomas and Charlie all stood up, approaching the two and pulling them apart, letting them know that it wasn’t worth it. Since Arin was done, they walked him out of the locker room.

“What’s going on here?” PJ asked, walking in the opposite direction, looking to Phil and Thomas, “Who did he fight?”

“He almost got into it with Felix,” Phil said quickly, “Now go, you’re late.”

“Nah, nah, hang on a sec...Where did all of that come from then?” he asked, approaching the heated boy and holdng his face up by his chin. Arin was still fuming and barely cared that the boy he had a huge crush on was touching him.

“Shawna... can I go now?” Arin said quickly.

“Yeah, we can talk about this later, we got like 5 minutes to whistle and I don’t feel like running laps..” Thomas said.

“Shawna? As in my Shawna, Shawna? What did you do?” he asked, taken aback, “What happened?”

“She’s not your Shawna. And she’s fine. I asked for this..”

“I’m not sure you get to make that call,” PJ staring Arin in his eyes and pausing to look him up and down, then walking away, wagging a finger at him while walking back toward the locker room.

“Alright you guys, the gym is getting repainted so we had to open the windows and turn the big fans on. It’s a little chilly, but it’ll be great for the workout today!”

“It’s too cold for this..” Gabbie whined amongst Kristen and Shawna.

“It’s not that cold to me..You should start doing hikes with me on the weekends,” Shawna said, hands on her hips.

“Yeah, sure, Ms. Canada no thanks I hate the cold!” Gabbie said back, “I’ll join you in like late spring or early summer.”

“Arin and I usually join her, but I couldn’t make it yesterday..Did something happen? Why does he look like he got his ass beat?” Kristen asked excitedly.

“Uhh..” Shawna began before hearing the whistle and watching the boys all sprint onto the floor.

“Alright, since everyone needs to get moving and warm a little. How about everyone a nice light 5-minute jog?” he blew the whistle.

Everyone got into the group and started to jog together.

“Hey Shawna!” Tessa exclaimed, catching up to her friend, “Did you see what happened to Arin?”

“Yeah, I did it,” Shawna said quieter, simply looking forward.

“Oh my god! You did that?!” Kristen asked, whipping her head towards her, “What did he do to deserve it?”

“I-I..Can we just jog please?” Shawna said a little exasperated, “He told me I can’t say.”

“We wouldn’t tell anyone! We promise!” Tessa reassured her.

“You’re talking too loud,” Megan jumped in from the back.

“Even if she did, the boys can hear you from here..We can hear from here!” Liz added.

“Shut the fuck up,” Tessa snapped back before a whistle rang out and everybody stopped immediately, the group of girls giving exasperated sighs and a wave of sucking teeth.

“Why are we so chatty today?” the teacher asked, the room fell silent, “I heard someone curse, and you know that means I gotta make yall do health packets.” The class groaned and sucked their teeth, “Ah, Ah! Go change back and get in here while I grab the packets. Get seated on the bleachers and if I catch you doing other work, not only are you gonna sit, you’re getting detention.”

The girls were changing in the locker room and decided to pick up where they left off:

“Why would you-” Tessa began before Shawna cut her off.

“I never said why. He’s a little shit and someone needs to put him in check, so I did,” she replied.

“I say kudos, and I’m sure he deserved it,” Kristen said, watching her classmates redress, “PJ makes Arin out to be such a big softie.”

“He is a softie, for the most part, Matt said that too,” Gabbie chimed in while she pulled her ponytail out.

“I think the rugged hurt puppy look gives him an edge,” Shawna slid into the bustle of the girls talking.

“And you’re like..dating Arin, right?” Megan asked.

“Noo! He’s clearly dating PJ!” Kristen jumped up, yelling over them as they got up to leave.

“Says the girl who wishes she could date PJ,” Gabbie chided to Kristen, who accidentally let red glare at her friend even though blue laughed it off. It wasn’t like she cared what they thought and she wasn’t even mad that they had found out that she liked the lanky Brit, it was the reminder that plagued her that everybody knew she felt like a fool about it. She looked over at Shawna, who had been trying to walk as though she was deaf to the girls. It dawned on her that the girl might feel the same way about Arin, except she just wasn’t sure what transpires when they’re alone; and the girl felt a pang of longing.

The boys’ locker room was heavy. They didn’t think they would get the chance to see what happened.

“Arin,” PJ said, turning around and closing his locker, rolling up his jacket sleeves.

The boy turned around as he fixed his tie to face him, not realising how close he had gotten. He could feel the heat of his torso and his heart began to pound. His body was confused with the stress he felt as his vision blurred a little and mind felt eclipsed in darkness. “What do you want?” he bit at the boy.

“I wanna know why you said that,” he responded brushing off the intensity.

“I didn’t say anything, Peej,” he said, sounding like he was moments away from losing his patience.

“You said that she isn’t mine, and I’m..just curious,” he backed off in tone, “You sounded like it came from somewhere that you’re familiar with. I know you two have been getting close, and from what I’ve heard, you look like that because of her.”

“Did she say anything to you about it?” Arin asked raising an eyebrow.

“Spit it out, you cocky fuck!” Felix spat out.

“No one is talking to you Felix, I got this babe,” PJ tried to soothe the enraged Swede.

“No, we’ve got beef from earlier, and if he’s the guy I think he is, I’d keep Shawna away from him,” Felix interjected, “Suzy told me how he gets a fucking kick outta fucking up girls.”

“That’s a fucking lie,” Arin scoffed, “You’re just mad I’ve got Daddy’s attention right now so stop whining like a selfish slut!”

Arin hadn’t even realised he said that, and there was no way he could have known. It was a bad day for Felix and everything was going wrong so that’s just what he needed to hear to tip him off. He jumped up and slammed Arin into the lockers. Instinctively, Arin’s hands shot up to grab his arms to keep him from choking, resulting in repeated slams. The locks and handles stabbing him in the back and the repeated clang was where Arin had found his mind. The blurs got worse and the sound muffling while PJ, Matt, and Phil get a hold of Felix, which he had stronger hands than he had let on.

#youniversityadvent

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