#every time he opens his mouth i am just. hearteyes.

[widevibratobitch]

thinking about him <333 (Papageno from that nightmarish BBC Magic Flute cartoon)

#'very well (what the hell)' is a thing i have been quoting daily for years now #this whole film feels like a fever dream #the animation is horrifying #the inflating sarastro is my sleep paralysis demon #but i do genuinely love the three ladies there #the translation is so funny at times but the delivery is A++ #this papageno is just fuckin iconic #every time he opens his mouth i am just. hearteyes. #i am weirdly fascinated by this cartoon i gotta say. it terrifies me but at the same time. it is so #intriguing #mozart #die zauberflöte #the magic flute #wolfgang amadeus mozart #papageno #very well what the hell #brilliant #amazing showstopping spectacular

[katyaromanoffpetrova]

It's Lights Out And Away We Go

Natasha isn't the only one obsessed with the motorcycle her wife got her. Turns out it's perfect for knocking Katya's ego down a notch as well.

- Natasha Romanoff x Fem!OC (Katya Petrova from the Forgotten Ghost Series) - Wordcount: 1.4k - No warnings :) Masterlist

A/N: thank you @milfs69420 for the idea! Hope this is what you had in mind :)

Most men had a motorcycle to escape their wives, let's be honest. A reason to hide in the garage and go out for long drives. A hobby "for themselves" that their wives hated.

Natasha was the opposite. While she loved riding her bike instead of the car when the weather was nice, she didn't often go touring just for fun. Not alone, at least. After an hour, she was bored and missed her partner. 

But every now and then, it was a nice way to clear her head. The weather was beautiful today and Katya was at work, so she'd taken the opportunity to pull her shiny new motorcycle out of the garage, driving aimlessly until her fuel meter flickered red.

Pulling up at a gas station, Natasha turned her engine off and kicked out the stand. A group of bikers—black leather, long beards, broad-shouldered—watched her from a distance, half of them mounted on their bikes, half enjoying the shadows of the small gas station store. They were intimidating to most, the reputation of biker gangs not helping their image, but Natasha wasn't bothered, twisting the fuel tank cap by her seat off.

Her helmet gave her a sense of anonymity on the streets that she didn't often get to experience otherwise. While her long red braid peeked out from underneath, she wasn't immediately seen as Natasha the Avenger. Right now, she was just a woman, dressed in black, on a very, very nice motorcycle.

"Nice bike!"

She looked up from the fuel nozzle in her hand, her visor popped open just enough to see, but not enough to get recognized. One of the bikers had called out to her, an appreciative smile on his bearded face. It wasn't the first time people gave her bike hearteyes, and it wouldn't be the last.

"Thanks!"

As expected, he came over to her, leaving his helmet on his motorcycle. Men could never resist something pretty. "How fast does she go?" He asked. His plaid shirt was tight around his thick arms, his leather vest worn in as he held onto it. He looked nice enough.

"Do they ever go fast enough?" Natasha joked, hearing Katya's warning voice in her head that yes, the bike could definitely go too fast.

A deep laugh rumbled in his chest. "No, they don't." Now that he stood closer, he gave her bike another thorough once-over, nodding appreciatively. "You take good care of her, she's like new."

"She is still pretty new," Natasha answered. Talking to strangers wasn't usually her favorite, but he had genuine interest in something she was proud of and enthusiastic about, so she was happy to chat. "It was a gift." 

"A gift?" The man whistled through his teeth. "You must have done something right."

Natasha grinned. "You'll have to ask my wife." 

It's a good thing her mouth was covered by her helmet, because her smile showed exactly how she felt about that wife of hers. To be safe, she averted her shimmering eyes too, watching the numbers on the pump climb as the gas poured into her tank. 

"Your wife?" The man exclaimed with a disbelieving laugh, his beer belly shaking. Clearly he wasn't used to wives being supportive of this hobby. "You're a lucky woman. I wish my wife was into this." 

"She's not. Not really. But she knows that I am." Natasha pulled the fuel nozzle out of the tank, careful not to scratch the paint. He must be hearing the fondness in her voice as she spoke of Katya. "Cars are her thing."

"Then she did her research, because this is a beauty. Don't often see rare ones like these." Once more, his eyes glided over the bike, trying to take in every detail. 

"Yeah, sometimes in life you get lucky, I guess," Natasha joked.

"Some more than others." He laughed, offering her his gloved hand. "I'm Rufus by the way."

"Natasha." She smiled, firmly shaking his hand. It almost engulfed hers. This was such a normal, human interaction. A stranger who talked to her just because they both loved the same things. It was so refreshing and unusual.

"If you'd ever want to join us, it'd be great to have you. It's just us men today, but we have women riding with us too." Rufus followed her gaze to his buddies who were too busy joking with each other. "Promise they aren't half as bad as they look."

Natasha didn't expect to feel excited at his offer. This man had no clue who she was, but he hoped she'd stick around for her personality and shared interests alone. She couldn't wait to tell Katya this. "Thank you."

Rufus nodded once. "I'll let you get on your way." His heavy boots took a step back to make space when she kicked up the bike stand. "Thank you for blessing us with this today."

"You're welcome," Natasha mused proudly, turning the key over in the ignition. With a roar, the engine came to life, and she heard Rufus's delighted groan over the rumbling. For good measure, she revved the engine a few times, grinning widely as she shut her visor and shot away from the gas station.

As Natasha lazily weaved in and out of traffic, she couldn't stop smiling. Her interaction with Rufus was such a stupid thing to be excited about. Someone complimented her motorcycle, how exceptional! But it was way more than that. 

Rufus made her feel wanted and welcome. He invited her to join them. Someone wanted to be her friend for the simple fact that they had the same hobby, not because she was useful or famous. And she was as giddy about that as a kid getting an invite for a classmate's birthday party.

He'd also unintentionally reminded her of just how privileged she was. An expensive motorcycle between her thighs, the money she and Kat had to get themselves these nice things, but most of all a supportive wife who bought her the bike. It wasn't a given to have a partner like that. 

The butterflies in her stomach fluttered happily thinking about her happy, good little life.

Fifteen minutes from home, something colorful caught Natasha's eye in the distance. It was hard to tell because of the reflecting sunlight on all the car roofs, but as she came closer, she could start to make out the distinctive orange color between the rest of traffic.

Slowly, she came closer, squinting her eyes trying to make out the number plate, but it should have been pretty obvious that it was who she thought it was. Who in New York had the exact same car, in that color, and managed to drive it that shitty?

With a smirk, she sat up and called Katya, hearing the call connect through the earbuds in her ears.

"Hi! I'm almost home."

"I know." Natasha smirked, now only four cars behind.

There was a short pause as Katya processed that answer. "Are you stalking me?" She accused her with a chuckle. Right then, Natasha merged behind her car, weaving slowly to pull Katya's attention to her rearview mirror. She knew it worked when a gasp came through the phone. "Oh, hey!"

"Hello," Natasha mused, speeding up until she drove next to Katya's window, giving her a small wave. "Fancy seeing you here."

Katya stared at her for longer than was safe. "It has to be illegal for you to drive around on that thing. You're a distraction to all the other drivers."

"Is that why you drive like a drunk grandma?" Natasha saw her scowl through the window.

"Take that back."

Natasha's sly smile widened. "I'll take it back if you press your foot on the gas pedal."

"I can beat you home if I wanted to."

"Bet."

"Bet." Katya adjusted her seat, gripping the steering wheel a little tighter. "We start at the next sign post."

Natasha pressed her chest closer to her motorcycle, wrapping her fingers securely around the handles. "Enjoy the view off my ass, because that's what you're going to be looking at the whole way home."

"Prepare to have it beaten."

It was a losing game for Katya. Natasha was the better driver and she had a more agile vehicle that crept into places the car couldn't. By the time she pulled up on the driveway at home, Natasha had already parked her bike inside and pretended to wait impatiently on the porch. 

Katya woke up the next day to find a sticker on her car. 

"Warning: Slow moving vehicle."

#katandnat #natasha romanoff #forgotten ghost series #natasha romanoff fanfiction #natasha romanoff x fem!oc #natasha romanoff oneshot #natasha romanoff imagine #natasha romanoff drabble #natasha romanoff fluff

[schrijverr]

Buried Truths

During a moonquake Jonny and Tim get buried under the rubble together. Jonny tells Tim about his immortality as they try and dig themselves out and they grow closer.

On AO3.

Ships: Bertie x Tim in the background, but this is a Tim & Jonny fic

Warnigs: Jonny gets crushed by boulders two times, it’s not graphic, but watch out. Tell me if I missed anything or if you’d like me to tag something!!

~~~~~~~~ 

Moonquakes, no one had told them anything about fucking moonquakes when they’d signed up.

They didn’t tell them about a lot of thing of course, but Tim was actually pissed off at this, because you didn’t think of moonquakes when you thought of a war. Most he could have come up with if he’d thought through the patriotic haze, but this? This fucking sucked.

The moonquakes wouldn't have been so bad if they weren’t fighting in literal tunnels, so every single shudder of the moon could be the one that buried them.

Tim hated it, he would rather be microwaved or chocking on gas.

He had told the others that one day, earning him a slap from Bertie, who’d told him he shouldn’t die at all, but Jonny had agreed: “Yeah, getting buried alive fucking sucks, not a pleasant way to go.”

Which had been a strange way to phrase that, but Tim had just been glad to have someone on his side to complain to about the moonquakes.

Something he was doing right now, while they marched: “I just don’t get why they didn’t tell us any sooner, you know? I mean, of course, I get why they didn’t put it into their propaganda, but at least mention it during training instead of explaining it when we first experience one.”

“Are you still on about that, love?” Bertie rolled his eyes fondly.

“Yes. Yes, I am. I am British, okay, we don’t do quakes in any way, shape or form and it fucking sucked and I hate every second of every moonquake and the least they could have done was give us a warning beforehand.” Tim pouted indignantly.

Jonny was once again on his side: “He’s right, I have lived most of my life on a solid spaceship, the worst thing is turbulence, not the roof crashing down. A boulder crushing you fucking hurts and I do not need that in my life right now.”

“Exactly, thank you, Jonny.” Tim gave Bertie a triumphant look, again ignoring the strange phrasing of Jonny, just chalking it up to the weirdness that was him.

“You two, I swear, one braincell.” Bertie sighed.

“I don’t know if that was an insult, but-” Tim squinted at Bertie.

“I do, it fucking was, I’m not associated with this dumb fuck.” Jonny interjected, earning a squawk from Tim who immediately went to defend his honor.

They weren’t even a few meters further, still squabbling, when the ground around them started to rumble and shake. The company cursed and tried to find a good refuge spot.

Tim had been carrying a torch and now shone it on the ceiling, to try and gauge, where it would be coming down and where they would be safe. The light hit a quickly loosening boulder directly above Jonnys head.

He cursed again and jumped, trying to get Jonny out of the way, knowing he most likely wouldn't make it.

His hands made contact and Jonny let out a confused yell, but he would not simply budge. It seemed he had quickly figured out what was happening and instead turned them, mid-fall, so that he would be on top, shielding Tim from the down poor of rocks by taking the blows himself.

Tim was about to shout at Jonny, when a rock hit him and the world went black.

When he came to, the world was still black, but in the familiar dark way of the tunnels he’d gotten used to.

It took a moment before he had adjusted enough to try and take in his surroundings. He was lying in the sand of the moon, but the usually cramped tunnels were even tighter. The events from earlier came back with that thought and he realized he must be in a small space underneath the rocks that had fallen on them.

Them. Fuck, Jonny.

He tried to move his hands, so that he could feel if the thing, presumably Jonny, on top of him had a heartbeat he could feel.

After some wiggling he managed to put one hand on what he thought was Jonnys chest, right where his heart should be. His blood froze in his veins. Jonnys chest was cold to the touch and there was no thumping to be felt.

It almost seemed impossible. Tim had seen Jonny survive so much of this war, both suicidal rescue missions and his own stupidity, so the thought that he might not be there anymore was jarring to say the least.

He laid there for a second after that revelation of Jonnys death. It hadn’t really sank in yet and he was mostly shocked, unable to move or think.

When his mind had pushed it away enough, he started to check how hurt he was and how likely it was that he would ever get out of here, or if he would die a slow death by himself. It seemed he was incredibly lucky (because Jonny took the stones, his mind helpfully supplied), because he was mostly in tact, save for some bruises and scrapes.

He should be unharmed if he was able to get out, which was another hurdle. The others would assume they’d died and maybe even leave them here, no rescue mission for corpses. God, Bertie must be so upset right now.

The thought of Bertie lodged something in his throat and he wanted nothing more than to be held in his strong arms, while he whispered to him that everything was going to be alright. Jonny would gag at them and make a face, but they would mind.

A single tear slid down his face, because that would never happen again.

Jonny was gone, he was buried under a pile of rocks and Bertie probably thought they were dead and no one would come for them.

God, Bertie, the man would be heartbroken, but they’d force him to march on all on his own. Tim knew he would break if the roles were reversed and he feared the worst as the seconds ticked by in the dark hole under the rubble.

At one point he had started to dig himself out halfheartedly, but he’d quickly given up and had started to yell, but had stopped that after a long while of nothing as well.

He was just lying there, accepting his slow death, when the form on top of him suddenly jolted, nearly startling him into a heart attack.

Jonny gasped right in his ear and then started to cough into it, much to Tims disgust: “Gross, mate.”

“What?” Jonny sounded like death, which was probably what happened, or at least he had been close to it.

With that reminder, Tim shrieked: “How are you alive?”

“Luck?”

“I felt your heart, it was cold and not beating!”

“It never beats.”

“THAT’S NOT HELPFUL!”

Jonny was quiet for a moment, then he casually asked: “Where even are we?”

Tim opened and closed his mouths for a few times with the sudden topic change, then he sighed and said: “Under the rubble, we got buried during the quake.”

“That fucking sucks.” Jonny answered after a beat.

“Yeah, I’ve made peace with dying, because I think the others have already moved on. So, coming back from the brink of death isn’t going to do you any good.” Tim told him.

“I didn’t come back from the brink of death, I’m too cool to survive.” Jonny replied.

“What?”

“I fully died and came back. I’m immortal.” Jonny said.

“You’re what?” Tims voice was an octave higher.

“Immortal.” Jonny repeated, “It usually is pretty handy, but I’m not looking forwards to dying a bunch of times here, before I get out and if you die, your body will rot and it will stink.”

“That’s- You’re being really casual about the chance of me dying, you know that?” Tim told him.

He could feel Jonny shrug as he said: “Hey, almost no one I meet will outlive me, I came to terms with you or Bertie dying before I even knew you all that well. It happens, but if it will also stink, it’ll double suck, you know?”

Tim thought about that, then replied: “That’s sounds really fucking sad and I really don’t want to pity you on my deathbed, you’re too annoying for that.”

“It’s not your deathbed.” Tim could feel the eyeroll in Jonnys voice.

“Why not? We’re trapped here, we’ve been here for a long time and nothing has happened yet. Lets face it, the others are already gone.” Tim sighed, defeated.

“Well, I’m not wasting a good war stuck under some rubble, so as long as I’m alive, which is going to be forever, we’re getting out of here.” Jonny said stubbornly, “Besides, I’ve seen Bertie, that guy has a too big case of hearteyes to leave you here, so you better buckle up and start helping me dig us out of here.”

Tim felt Jonnys elbows dig into his stomach and let out a groan, while the annoying asshole on top of him wiggled around until he could start moving rocks from on top of them to the small space they occupied.

“What the fuck are you doing?” Tim hissed.

“Getting us out of here.” Jonny answered.

“Yeah, but one mistake and the whole thing comes crashing down on us, you moron.” Tim exclaimed.

“And I’ll live and shield you, we’ll be fine.” Jonny waved his concern away, “Now, start helping me move this and start yelling. They’re far more likely to come to your aid then mine.”

“What makes you say that?” Tim asked, concerned for his friend, as much as he tried to deny they even were friends.

“Oh, they all still owe me money from when I cheated them out of it with some card games.” Jonny explained.

“You menace.” Tim grinned, before starting to yell and help Jonny out.

An hour later and they had moved about half a meter. It was tiring work and slow going. Where at first they had worked with vigor and yelled loudly, they now were going even slower and working in silence.

Tim was just about to tell Jonny they should give up when a rock above them came loose and crashed down on Jonny. It was too dark to see, but Tim could hear a sickening crunch as Jonny went limp above him once more.

He swallowed heavily and tried not to think about the fact that this was the second time today that the other had given his life to shield Tim and also the second time Tim had the corpse of his friend lying on top of him.

It took a few seconds before Tim had gathered himself enough to remove the rock from Jonnys head. They’d gotten lucky enough that it wasn’t an important rock that kept their ceiling in tact, but just a stray one that had gotten loose in their effort to get free.

While he worked he kept repeating to himself: He’ll get back, he’s fine, he might be dead, but he’ll come back again, he’s fine, he’s immortal, it’s all fine.

However, that was hard to believe and with every passing second that Jonny lay there as still as the corpse he currently was, Tim got more worried.

He’d just stopped digging them out to try and wake Jonny up, illogical as that might be, when Jonny stirred again.

Just like before he suddenly jolted, before gasping a big breath and coughing. Once he’d gathered his bearings, he sighed and casually said: “That never gets pleasant. Any news about our freedom yet?”

“No,” Tim answered with a tight voice, “not yet.”

“Ugh, why can’t they work harder, I hate this.” Jonny complained, even if he did go back to digging them out immediately.

Suddenly the blood in Tims veins froze with a realization he didn’t have before and in a small voice he asked: “What if they got buried too? What if they didn’t make it?”

Jonny stilled his actions at the question. The silence that hung over them was tense and heavy, it was clear that Jonny hadn’t even thought about the others dying, probably so used to them coming back or him not caring.

“They’ll be fine.” it was curt and Tim wasn’t sure if it was him or Jonny himself that the other was trying to convince.

Jonny started digging again, this time more urgently and with less jokes or comments. It was just putting away stone after stone in the dark, hoping that against their worst thoughts that grim possibility wasn’t true.

If the slow going was annoying before, it was infuriating and frustrating now. Inch by inch they moved closer to freedom, closer to an answer about the faith of their fellow soldiers, of Bertie. This time, however, neither slowed down, even as they got tired and it seemed like they made no progress.

With every rock, Tims lost hope.

With every inch, Jonny heart hardened.

In the darkness it was hard to picture anything positive ever coming, there was no light at the end of the tunnel.

Tim chocked out: “I don’t think they made it.”

“Don’t-” Jonny said accusatory, “Just don’t, you don’t get to say that, okay? You’re the mortal one here, I’m told it gives you endurance and hope, so keep hoping, you motherfucker.”

He couldn’t see Jonnys expression in the dark and he didn’t know if he should be grateful for it. Throughout the whole war Jonny had been a rock of unending optimism and fun to cling onto when things seemed hopeless, but now he sounded so vulnerable as well and Tim didn’t know if he wanted to see the other being anything but fun, even if it might be manic.

So, he just kept working and started yelling again, hoping that they would hear a response. He called out: “Bertie? Bertie? Anyone? Sarge? Hello? We’re here!”

Tim took a break to take another deep breath to continue shouting when he faintly heard a very familiar voice call out: “Tim? Tim is that you?”

“Bertie! Bertie, over here!” Tim yelled, shaking Jonny slightly in excitement.

Jonny rolled his eyes and said: “Yeah, yeah, I heard him too,” before yelling: “Start digging, you asshole. We’re fucking stuck here.”

Soon after they heard more exclaims, before rocks started to shift above their heads. It still look a while, but then the final rock got lifted and they found Bertie grinning at them, before paling.

“What? What’s wrong, dear?” Tim immediately asked.

“You two are covered in blood, are you hurt?” Bertie asked, concern lacing his voice.

With the light Jonny and Tim now could look at each other properly. Indeed they were covered in blood and dust. Jonnys hair was absolutely caked and Tim knew he would be complaining about it for days.

“It looks worse than it is.” he told Bertie instead, the truth would come later, when they were clean and safe, “We got lucky.”

“And that you most certainly did.” the sarge stepped up, crossing her muscled arms, “If this weren’t such an important route, we wouldn't have even tried to dig you out. How you even survived in the first place in a miracle.”

“Yeah, if that’s what you want to call it.” Jonny shrugged, before holding out his hands and asking: “Is anyone going to get me out of here now?”

After that it all happened quite quickly. They were out the dirt and into a convoy back to camp, Bertie by their side, then into the cleaning area, before finally being able to rest.

He had been right that Jonny would complain about his hair, but he also found that he didn’t seem to mind as much as before. He’d already had a soft spot for Jonny, annoying as he might be, and it seemed it had only grown. The bastard.

Tim was going to regret this, he could feel it in his bones, but he couldn't find it in himself to care. The little shit could use someone to watch his immortal back.

#RR writing #The Mechanisms #the mechs #Jonny d'Ville #gunpowder tim & jonny d'ville #gunpowder tim #bertie (the mechs) #bertie x tim #sadly no jonny there too this time #the moon war

[artificiallyimplantedmemories]

[ ooc: ep 4 liveblog & opinions under the cut! this one got long winded because I had a lot that I was thinking about (and it took me twice the length of the episode to actually watch through it because I kept pausing to type oops) ]

yeeeesh that’s one way to start. thank you for letting bucky cry.

but also the look of pride on her face when she says “you are free” they’ve been working so hard and she’s so happy with the progress bucky has made ;_;

and now she’s so betrayed :(

but I’m also so glad Bucky learned xhosa that’s super important! <3 part of decolonization of the past involves respecting and learning and propagating languages and cultures that have been trodden over. Wakanda has been something of a safe place in that regard, and are now doing the outreach to help their continent and the world, but it takes the world of people within the majority putting in the effort and learning and embracing those cultures and languages (without appropriation, which I know is a fine line to walk sometimes) in order to really make progress. once it is no longer alien, it is also no longer scary, and can be held in proper esteem.

“sweet of you” shut your mouth Zemo xD

“she’s just a kid” thank you for your compassion Sam. and while she’s an extremist, I’m not sure whether Karli counts as a supremacist or just a terrorist? maybe she counts as genocidal if she’s truly trying to restore things to Blip conditions but it’s kind of unclear.

“the serum never corrupted Steve” “touché” YO EVEN HE ADMITS IT

Sam’s understanding of cultural habits (and there are many overlaps between various cultures and the ways they mourn) is such an asset here, and I’m glad that they’re pulling a contrast between the tech-driven, cold, calculating predictions made by certain people and organizations in other parts of Marvel and the general sort of soulful and instinctive approach here

Turkish delight. Excuse me but Narnia cemented the idea in so many people’s heads that it is this magical thing but it’s like superglue in your mouth. It is not irresistible, Zemo.

Legislation and social change as a result of violent action is nothing new. Every peaceful protest has been backed up by some kind of harm, whether it be economic, like a boycott, or physical, either damage to property or lives. I think instinctively people understand this, but it’s good to see it put in the spotlight.

Sam is “stranger danger” to these kids :/

“I know what happens when people say they’re going to help out... nothing.” Ouch.

The way Sam’s gaze falls at that too, because he knows theoretically that a lot of these injustices are happening and can empathize, but practically hearing it hurts. He doesn’t like not being trusted either, but I think he can probably understand why.

Zemo playing that psychology game! Kids love food and the idea that he must be a good person just for having a kid is dumb as hell but something that kids would gravitate towards. Smart man. Doubly smart for not telling them, Nat would approve if she didn’t hate him :P

Sam de-escalating is gonna be a trend I can just see it.

Cherry blossom tea? Interesting choice.

SHARON HI 

Nat vc: gosh it’s nice to see someone competent around here. 

ooooh they’re really reinforcing the idea of Captain America being a figurehead that inspires people

“heroes these days don’t have the luxury of keeping their hands clean” yeah well it’s because Steve had people like Bucky and Nat do do his dirty work, but sure

“all the people history just left out” OW

okay first of all Sam being the one who is insisting on reasoning with them because he knows what it’s like to come from an oppressed people !!! he knows grief and trauma !!! he can do this !!!!! I just know Walker is gonna fuck it up for them :P

second, Walker trying to emotionally manipulate Bucky? it’s a testament to how far he’s come that he doesn’t punch the guy immediately lol

Hoskins being the voice of reason as a foil for Walker again what?! this version of Lamar isn’t nearly as terrible as I expected.

Zemo calling that itty bitty girl his associate xD He really does understand the people here though... aaaand he’s getting handcuffed. Totally didn’t see that coming (he’ll probably break free anyway)

The conversation between Karli & Sam ;_; 

“you’re either brilliant or hopelessly optimistic” “por quo no los dos.gif”

Walker trying to guilt Bucky again god he’s so dumb. I appreciate the fact that he’s ruthless but he’s so narrow minded in how he approaches problems. oh no I have an issue let’s punch it until it dies! come on man.

Karli is so heartbreakingly naive and that’s becoming more and more obvious. I love Sam opening her up like this wow.

WALKER FUCKING IT UP AS ALWAYS

and the cuffs empty WHAT DID I TELL YOU

god we were getting somewhere ;____;

oh good just what we need, serum in Walker’s hands. he was already awful he doesn’t need to be more awful gdi

“we separate them and then we kill Captain America” ...yes, we’re listening xD

I know crazy because I am crazy... oh boy we got some internalized stuff, but let’s play it off

still a little blame game going in terms of where the shield ended up I see

THE DORA MILAJE ARE HERE -swoon-

pOINTY STICKS I cackled oh boy he gonna get his ass WHOOPED

Sam is enjoying the hell out of this

Zemo watching and drinking

“Looking strong, John!” “Bucky”

oooh dear they tangling and Zemo’s getting away.

your arm’s off! no it’s not

WAIT WHAT DID AYO SAY BEFORE SHE SAID JAMES

they all got their asses kicked ah well. also the look on Walker’s face says he gonna serum himself up, the lil fucker. oh no someone’s better than you how will your ego ever survive.

a lil Battlestar logo!!! shut up that’s cute. they’re really making him halfway likeable here.

“power just makes a person more of themselves”

ohhhh okay time to unlock Walker’s traumatic backstory. at least he feels bad about the things he did. at least he knows that those medals of honor are covered in blood. people are at least partly made by their circumstances, and I wonder what he was like before the war. the only indication we have of it is him being a football star, and while I may not have had the best track record with those in my youth, that doesn’t mean there aren’t decent ones out there...

Sarah’s “my world doesn’t matter to America, so why should I care about its mascot?” Oh, we’re speaking to the disenfranchisement of marginalized people hardcore today okay. if anyone’s gotten this far in my overly long commentary I want you to know that this is the realest alright? it’s hard to be proud of a country and its symbols when it doesn’t do right by you, when the majority doesn’t do right by you. am I glad I was born here? sure. are there worse places to be? sure. am I proud to be an american? oof, man, don’t ask me that.

Karli is not pulling her punches, she’s threatening the whole fam. Sam isn’t gonna like that... He sounds like he’s trying to suppress panic instead of being angry on the phone call with Sarah. I think he understands what Karli is trying to do, even though he hates how. And he’s worried, because he’s always gonna be worried. Poor guy. And there’s the confrontation.

Sharon got their backs!

Oof, seeing the gun with the shield.

Gunshot, run, oh, listening, he’s already got the serum, maybe? Given how deeply that shield is embedded in the wall I’m gonna say yes. YUP I WAS RIGHT.

Something about the water dripping and Lemar’s face makes me think he may have been waterboarded at some point :( but maybe he’s just in a lot of pain.

THE KNIFE CATCH. YES YES YES. THE KNIFE FLIP. Nat is so hearteyes.

Ooh, we gotta upgrade that wingpack with Stark repulsors pls go Sam go

oh no. Lemar. fuck. FUCK.

oh good now you’ve done it. killing a guy as Captain America. fuck.

the blood on the shield as the last shot! ~cinematography~

hoooo I’m chilled. I knew something along these lines was coming but oof. 

#onyx watches fatws #out of the red; #fatws spoilers #cw: death #cw: blood #cw: racism #cw: ptsd #cw: torture

[jebentnietalleen]

What is it about Axel that you guys like so much?

I could get offended and say: suddenly I can’t read. But instead I will take this time to tell you exactly what I - because, I don’t know how many times I will have to say this, but I am just on my own here, there is no you guys, but okay - like about Axel. Lucky for me, I wrote about this before, so here we go:

Let’s start with his talent. Oh my god. I think I might be the person who used that Oscar meme the most during season 3, but I am valid, I am right and I should say it, tbfh. He deserves all the awards. The range of that man. The way he can cry and make you feel like pure shit for him. His hearteyes? Wow. Show me an actor who plays being in love more convincingly than him. I’ll wait. Yes okay, Maxence too, I agree. 

Also, look, we all think it’s not the smartest idea to punch a gate, but he really did that. He really took it that far. He really ran faster than the van that was suppose to capture him on film in vendredi 20h27 the second. Not only can he act, he plays drums, piano, guitare, mouth harmonica, can dance, can sing, really, what can’t this guy do? 

He is not afraid to cry. He cries. He cries in real life, and he talks about it, and he shows it. He tells the world he cried when he had an argument with his ex-girlfriend, and he got emotional during the screenings because he cares so much about Lucas and about skam france. He retweeted something about guys getting to cry too and that that’s important. 

I love his humor and I can’t help but smile every time he or Ouba posts something on ig. He’s such a dork in the best possible way. 

Not only is he funny, honest, open and fragile, he kicks toxic masculinity to the ground and stomps on it. He is openly affectionate with his male castmates, but also with his male friends. He will cut a homophobe if he has too, and you just know that when he was still on twitter, he would go on there late at night and seek out the haters and torch them down. You gotta admire that, because that’s so powerful: he uses his fame to let the world know that this is not okay.

Honestly, I could go on for hours and hours, and you can’t name me a better man. 

#there #:) #axel auriant #anon answered

[artisticestheticreads]

The End of the World: Part 1

A/N: Okay I am an awful human being because this was requested back in October by @thickemadame​. This will be a multiple one shot inspired by the Will Smith film, I Am Legend and with the virus going around. This is not to scare anyone. We will make through this by any means necessary. This super short but I hope y'all still. PART TWO WILL COME OUT TOMORROW

WARNING: Blood, coronavirus, death, cussing and horror

SONG RECOMMENDATION: See Me Fall by Ro Ransom

WORD COUNT: 1157

PAIRING: Black Reader x Erik Stevens

  The year 2030, you woke up on a cool day. Cooler than usual honestly since you reside in Sunny California. You stretched your aching limbs and noticed the silence that surrounded you. You got out of bed with your durag wrapped around your fresh cut, dark brown fade and called out. “Bruno, Bruno baby”, you called out to your boyfriend. You pulled out your phone and saw that you had no service what so ever. “Shit”, you yelled as you made your way down the hall. You called out to him again until you saw your trashed living room. “Baby, did we get drunk last night? Why the fuck is there such a huge mess?” You traced a single finger against the wood of the coffee table and saw blood with discarded clothes in his favorite spot on the couch.

 He warned you that this day would come but you thought he was crazy in the brain. The day actually came, the end of the world. You ran back to your room to hurry and dressed in a green turtle neck with a pair of jeans, beanie and boots. You slipped on your black bomber jacket and before you hit the door, the news flashed on our TV. “This Rosa Gonzalez with ABC 7. It looks like the virus is spreading across the world and there are over a million bitten or dead due to the deadly pandemic. The infected have raided homes to find and kill the only man who could have saved us named Bruno Tylers.” You covered your mouth to cover the cries and screamed into your hands.

   The reporter continued as you watched. “He was the only one who had a remedy that so happen can save us all. But no one has found it yet. According to his deceased team that passed this morning, the remedy is somewhere hidden but the only thing we knows is that it ‘is close to the heart’. We will report more later on at two, stay safe world.” The TV shut off when you thought of Bruno’s words. You then saw a white envelope in the mail basket, you opened and noticed Bruno’s handwriting.

  “My love, I am soon to be with my mother and father. They have come for me and I can stop that. I know you have the ability to stop them but there seems to be a ton of them. So, I have locked the bedroom door from the inside. But before I did, I packed you with four bags for your travels a long with the keys to the Ford Truck. I want you to go to this address and follow this exact formula to make enough to heal the sick but there is not much time. Also, there is a shot for you to take to protect yourself. There is enough for a month and each shot lasts every month as well. Remember, the formula is close to your heart. I love you and please stay safe…for both of us. 

-Bruno.” 

You folded the paper and placed it into your pocket. You thought of what he said and noticed that the only thing that stayed close to your heart was... “My necklace.” You caressed as you ran to the bedroom, locking the door behind you and grabbed your backpack, placing it on your back, throwing your messenger bag across your chest and grabbing your duffel bag before reaching for your gun under the bed.

  Then, you heard it. A pair of footsteps at the bedroom door. You stood straight with gun in hand, taking four deep breaths. You thought quick and shot at the window to jump out to the fire escape. It seemed like each floor you hit, another infected creature reached for you but you dodged them all. You jumped onto your truck and threw your stuff in the back seat. You started the car but struggled to get it up and running. All of a sudden, you saw a figure in the distance, then it became a few then hundreds. The infected ran to your truck but you floored it, backwards. You took to the freeway and made your long journey to the secluded location. As you looked around you saw a few wounded survivors and thought that you were the only one who can save them all.

  You made it to deep downtown as you went to the lab and used his badge that was with the letter; this was your new home. It was secluded, on lock down mode and safe; there was no way that anyone or anything can get through. There was a cot with sheets folded for emergency and a clean bathroom. You sat at the counter wiping your face and heard a thump noise. You grabbed your gun and pointed it the direction you heard the noise in. You took careful steps to the area and heard a toilet flush. When the door open, hands went in the air. “Whoa, whoa. Put that down”, he said in his raspy voice. “Who are you”, you asked him and he slowly approached you. “I am one of the Wakandian providers. You know, the ones that gives y’all money and sends our scientists here.” You lowered your gun and noticed his appearance. You two met on several occasions but never really talked much. It was Erik Stevens himself. He wore a navy blue long sleeve tee with jeans and sneakers of course.

 “Mr. Stevens, sorry. I didn’t recognize you in casual attire.”

“Yeah, I decided to drop to check on my students but I just found their bloody lab coats.” You put your gun down and nodded with him. “Yeah, it’s a blood bath out here. How is it in Wakanda?”

“Well, since half our population was wiped out along with most of my family so did our scientists. No one knows a cure for any of this. I mean, we tried everything but just failed miserably. Rumor has it, that the formula is somewhere here. But I didn’t find anything. Shuri was here to help but-.” He looked towards her lab coat on the floor and you followed his sad eyes. The young woman was massacred only trace if her was her blood and beads. You looked to him and said “I am so sorry, Mr. Stevens. I actually have it. Bruno must have known this was coming and wanted to keep it safe months ago.” He looked at you, curious eyes at your face. “Where is it?” You pointed to your necklace and he smiled. “Y/N, this is great. Do you know what this means? We can save the world from being ran over by them ugly ass things out there.” You laughed a little and said “well, he also gave me the formula but I can’t do this shit. Can you?”

“Yeah, I can. We can save the world, Y/N… together.”

𝕋𝔸𝔾𝔾𝔼𝔻 𝕃𝕆𝕍𝔼𝕊*

@muse-of-mbaku @im5ftbutmythroat66 @chaneajoyyy @melanin-samii @theunsweetenedtruth @doux-ciel @unicornluvin8765 @vikkidc @wakandantings @thadelightfulone @mzamethystp @simbiann @tropicalsun10 @babydoll756​ @notoriouslynay @vminax @quinsly @pinkdemolition @quietstorm-73​ @chaoticcashfancroissant @bugngiz​ @chocolatedippedinhoney​ @yafavcocoa @lostgalaxies​ @mbakuwife @youreadthatright​ @babygotl01292003 @acceptyourselfloveyourself @madamslayyy​ @yoyolovesbucky​ @theogbadbitch @wakanda-inspired @bitchacho25 @toniilaney @wakandascrystal​ @girlsneedlovingfanfics @raysunshine78​ @melodyofmbaku @hearteyes-for-killmonger @silenceisplatinum @thickemadame​ @shookmcgookqueen​ @heykillmongerluhme​ @fonville-designs @cutewylie @allhailqueennel @10bsatatime @nickidub718 @lildashofmelanin @allhailqueennel @amirra88 @hakunalive4eva @thickemadame​ @ghostfacekill-monger @cherrystainedlipsbaby​ @nahimjustfeelingit-writes​ @fd-writes

#Erik Stevens #Erik Killmonger #erik stevens x reader #Erik Kilmonger #Erik killmonger x Reader #horror #artisticestheticreads #artisticesthetic requests

[404gendernotfound]

Living with a Hybrid Part 8 (Hybrid!Taeyong x Reader)

Summary: Your first time waking up with Taeyong clinging to you after exchanging kisses yesterday night. He is still a bit shy but gets more confident throughout the day. You’re talking about him even at work and as you finally come home you can’t wait to spend time with your favourite boy.

Contains: fluff

Warnings: none

Wordcount: 3,9 K

A/N: For all of you who have been wondering if the story is gonna end soon since the main couple got together now: I’m not planning on ending it this soon. It could be that there are 5 more chapters, it could be that I’ll still write 10 or more. I’ll have to see if I can still keep up with the flow of the story and if it will be better to not drag it too long and just end it at it’s best. So you can still look forward to a lot of cute moments with Taeyong and to get a look at the readers family and past.

Enjoy!

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7

________________________________________________________________

As I woke up the next morning I had to shuffle out of Taeyongs grip without waking him since I needed to get ready for work. His shift at the pancake shop didn’t start before 9 am so he still could sleep some time before he needed to get ready. I stretched and walked into the bathroom to shower and then get dressed. As I came back out of the bathroom I saw a sleepy hybrid sitting on the bed looking in my direction.

“Did I wake you?”, I asked and he shook his head.

“The bed was too cold without you”, he mumbled in a shy voice and I saw his cheeks blush slightly.

My heart skipped a beat and I walked over to the bed to take my place next to him. I sat down and Taeyong instantly laid his head down on my shoulder.

“You could still sleep some time. You don’t always need to get up whenever I leave for work”, I explained.

“But I want to see you out every morning”, he whined and looked at me with his puppy eyes.

How could I say no to this cutie? It was too adorable to know that he voluntarily wanted to wake up with me just to say goodbye for the day. I ruffled through his hair and he began to giggle quietly.

“You’re too cute for your own good”, I whispered and softly kissed his head.

I got off the bed and walked over to the desk to grab my things and put everything in my bag. Taeyong was watching me from the bed and waited until I had all the things I needed before he left the bed to see me off. I would just grab something to eat on my way from the bus to the office. As I was finished with putting my coat and shoes on, Taeyong stood at the doorstep and waited for me to step closer. I took a step forward and looked up at the sleepy hybrid that was a bit taller now since we weren’t standing on the same level. He looked like he wanted something. It was written all over his face but he seemed to be too shy to ask for it.

“Is there something you want?”, I asked and saw his cheeks turn pink.

“Can I give you a goodbye kiss?”, he asked looking to the floor and playing with his shirt.

“Of course”

Taeyong stood there hesitating while his tail was swinging behind him in excitement. It seemed like he was too shy to make a move after what happened yesterday. He just looked at me and I could almost see the anxiety in his eyes. I felt like I had to save him from the embarrassment. I leaned in and placed a quick kiss on his soft lips. As I moved back and looked at him I saw that he was satisfied now. I took one of his hands and squeezed it.

“I’ll be on my way now. I’ll see you later, Taeyongie”, I said before I let go of his hand and walked to the door.

“Text me when you arrive at work”, he added as I opened the door.

“I will. See you”

“Bye”

I closed the door and walked to the elevator with a bright smile on my face. I wasn’t sure what the thing between the two of us was right now but I was really happy to know that Taeyong somehow seemed to feel the same thing as I felt. As I arrived in the lobby I received a message from Taeyong. Was he already missing me?

Taeyongie 🤍: Get back home safe

I had to smile at his text.

You: I will. Now get some more rest before your shift starts <3

It took some time before he texted back. I was already sitting in the bus as my phone vibrated in my pocket. I pulled it out and looked at the display.

Taeyongie 🤍:  But I can’t sleep without you here…

You: Oh Taeyong…then watch some TV and eat some breakfast

Taeyongie 🤍:  Ok

There was a long pause before his next text arrived.

Taeyongie 🤍:  I can’t wait to see you again later <3

Reading his text made me wanna turn around and go back home right this instance. The bus arrived at the stop near the office and I got off walking into the direction of the bakery. After I got myself a sandwich and a croissant I walked over to the office. I quickly texted Taeyong that I arrived there and then entered the building. As I arrived my co-worker Jenny walked in with me.

“Good morning Y/N”, she said and smiled at me.

“Good morning Jenny”

“Have you heard about the new amusement park they’ll open on Saturday?”, she asked excited as if she couldn’t wait for my answer.

“No I haven’t. Tell me about it”

“They said there will be a lot of cool rides and a big Farris wheel where you can look over the whole city on its highest point.”, she explained excited.

“That sounds really nice. Maybe I can take Taeyong with me”, I mumbled more to myself than to her.

“Taeyong? Who’s that? Your boyfriend?”, she asked with a raised brow and a smirk on her face.

What should I say? He wasn’t really my boyfriend. At least we didn’t exchange our feelings really so it wouldn’t be good to assume that he was my boyfriend. I could just tell Jenny the whole story but that would take too much time. So I just decided to tell her to least I could.

“No. He’s a hybrid. He lives with me”

“Oh...wait! Since when do you have a hybrid?”

“It’s a long story. I’ll tell you later.”

I walked to my office and got straight to my work. It wasn’t as much work as yesterday meaning that it could be that I might get to go home early if I finish everything quickly. The mountain of work got a lot smaller when it was lunchtime. I felt like going to the canteen today even though I didn’t go there most of the time since it was noisy and all the co-workers where gathered there talking about god knows what. As I arrived there I got myself something to eat and sat down at a table with Jenny and some other people from our department.

“Hey! You left your office to eat for once”, she laughed and playfully hit my shoulder.

“I felt like socialising with you guys today”, I laughed and smiled at the others sitting at the table with us.

“So. You still need to tell us about that hybrid of yours”, one of them said and I sighed.

Jenny could never keep anything to her. She’s one of those people you can’t control what comes out of their mouth and sometimes information slips that wasn’t supposed to be said. I wasn’t mad at her since I didn’t mind the others knowing that I was living with a hybrid since I knew that they were pretty tolerant towards hybrids.

“That’s a really long story”

I started to tell them that I found him injured on the street about a month ago and took him in. I also told them about Haechan and Louis Green and what happened. I didn’t tell them about everything in detail since they just needed to know the basics. My co-workers looked at me some with a sad face and some really curious.

“So that means that you own that hybrid, right?”, Jenny asked and I shook my head.

“No. He lives with me but he doesn’t belong to me. He is officially still adopted by Louis Green”

Whenever I had to say that mans name my stomach turned and I had the feeling as if I had to puke any moment. Thinking about the bruises Haechan and Taeyong had caused my that bastard didn’t make that thought any better. I was just glad that they were healing on their own pace, mentally and physically.

“Does that mean that he will always count as that guys family?”, one of them asked.

“Actually, I never really thought about that. But now that you mention it, it might really be like that. I’ll have to call the adoption center and ask them if it is possible to undo an adoption.”

“Will you adopt him then?”, Jenny asked.

“I don’t know. If he wants me to I’ll gladly do it. But I won’t force him. It’s his decision. I don’t even know if he wants to stay with me forever. Maybe it’s better if I don’t adopt him.”

“You literally saved his life. I wouldn’t know anyone who would want to ever leave their saviour after something like this. Talk to him about it. I’m sure he’ll be very happy”, she said and pat my shoulder.

“Maybe you’re right.”

“Can we see a picture?”, one of them asked and I smiled.

“Sure.”

I showed them my wallpaper that showed a selfie that Taeyong and I took as we were chilling on the couch. His hair was messy on the picture and his cheeks slightly pink as he shyly looked into the camera. A loud “Aww” sounded through the room and everybody looked at our table. I apologised for the noise and looked at my co-workers angrily.

“He looks really cute. I bet he is a really good boy. Does he purr?”, she asked excited looking at me with hearteyes.

“Yes he does. He is very clingy but I don’t mind that. He is the cutest. Whatever you think is cute double that and you have Taeyong.”

Jenny giggled and continued to look at my phone.

“You should have told us earlier. It would be nice to meet him if that was possible”

“Well, he is really shy around strangers so I don’t know if that is a great idea right now but maybe some time in the future when he gets more confident around other people.”

It was really nice to talk someone else than Johnny and Mark about hybrids and they all seemed to understand me. We talked a bit more before the break was over and we got back to our desks to finish our work. I really was able to finish my work early. I brought my finished tasks to the boss and then went to pack my stuff. It was only 3 pm now meaning that I was able to finish 2 hours early. I was really happy that I now get to spend more time with my favourite boy on this beautiful Friday afternoon. I decided to surprise Taeyong at home. I quickly went food shopping on my way before I walked into the apartment building. I walked a different way to the elevator just to make sure that no one at the pancake shop could see me coming home already. As I arrived at the apartment, I put away the groceries and began to bake cookies. I knew that Taeyong loved the cookies I backed and I always love watching his happy face whenever he gets to eat them. As I was done with the dough and had put them in the oven, I decided to research if it was possible to undo an adoption. After reading articles and old cases for what felt like an hour, I found out that it was possible under certain circumstances like violence towards hybrids and that we just had to add it to our case. I instantly called our lawyer telling him that it would be the best if all the hybrids that had been affected by Louis Green should be spoken free to go in court so that they could go on and live a normal life without still knowing that they were legally still a part of his family. He added it to our file and assured me that he would do everything to win this case. After the call ended I heard the front door open. I put away my laptop and walked towards the corridor. As he stepped in and took off his shoes, I already heard his voice.

“Y/N?”, he said confused that I was already home.

I walked out of the kitchen and smiled at him as he looked at me. A huge smile formed on his face and he walked towards me instantly going for a hug. I hugged back and this time nuzzled my head against his neck.

“I’m home”, I mumbled against his neck and couldn’t help but place a quick kiss on his beautiful skin.

“I-I s-see t-that”, he stuttered and I couldn’t help but giggle at his sudden shyness.

I loved seeing how he always changed from the confident man to the shy boy whenever I did something unexpected. I moved so that I could look at him. His cheeks were pink as always. I reached out to pinch his cheeks and smiled.

“You know. Pink really suits you”, I teased and winked at him which just darkened his blush.

“Don’t make fun of me”, he said pouting and looked at me with puppy eyes.

“I’m serious. Pink is a great colour on you.”, I said and stroked his cheeks with both of my hands.

He just smiled at me and closed his eyes enjoying my affection towards him. His arms were now placed around my waist still keeping me as close as possible.

“You know. I really enjoyed work today since I got to talk about my favourite thing in life during lunchbreak. My co-workers were all delighted after I told them about the pretty hybrid I live with. They instantly wanted to meet you in person since you are so adorable”, I told him about today and saw his eyes open slowly.

“Y-you c-can’t talk about m-me like t-that”, he stuttered and looked down shyly.

“Why not?”

“Because it’s not true”, he mumbled quietly and let his head hang low.

“Hey…”

I placed my hand under his chin and softly pressed it up so he had to look at me.

“It’s true. You are beautiful, Taeyong. It doesn’t matter whatever people called you in the past. Have you even looked at yourself properly? Your eyes are the prettiest I have ever seen. You blush whenever something unexpected happens and try to hide your face even though it’s the cutest thing on planet earth or even the universe. Your fur is smooth and shiny just like your hair and I always want to run my hands through it whenever I see you. You are clingy but not in a bad way. And most important of all, your personality is even more beautiful. You are the sunshine in person. Everything I said about you is nothing but the truth.”

While I complimented him I noticed tears building in his eyes. Before they could leave and run over his beautiful face I pulled him closer and placed a kiss on his lips. This was the first time he wasn’t shy enough to kiss back. Our lips moved in the same pace and fit perfectly as if they were made for each other. My hands wandered from around his neck into his hair and softly pulled on it. The kiss ended after some time with both of us slightly panting and leaning our foreheads against each other. I smiled at him and watched his mouth curl upwards, too.

“I’m not just saying this because I really like you. I’m saying this because that’s how I feel about you and you should feel just the same about yourself. You are beautiful, Taeyong”

“T-Thank you. I’m sorry. I promise I won’t think badly about myself again”

“You don’t have to promise that to me. Promise it to yourself. You have to be able to love yourself before you can love someone else”, I added and cupped his face with one of my hands.

“I’ll try”, he whispered and closed his eyes.

“I know. Don’t pressure yourself. I’ll be by your side whenever you need me. Don’t worry about that.”

I placed one last kiss on his lips before we separated from each other and walked into the kitchen. I looked after the cookies while Taeyong quickly changed into something more comfortable. As he came back into the kitchen I almost dropped the backing tray. He had startled me as he walked behind me and wrapped his arms around my waist placing his head on my shoulder. He was normally too shy to do something like this which was why I was so surprised about his behaviour.

“Be careful. Don’t hurt yourself”, Taeyong said and tightened his grip on me.

“Sorry. I was just surprised. These have to cool before we can eat them so let’s just go to the couch and watch something, ok?”, I suggested and looked at him over my shoulder.

“OK”, he whispered and then turned me so that we were facing the direction of the living room.

He didn’t move from behind me the whole way into the living room. It was difficult to walk with a hybrid clinging to my back as if I would disappear any moment he loosened his grip on me but I wasn’t gonna complain. As we arrived in front of the couch Taeyong released me and sat down on it patting his lap.

“You want me to sit on your lap?”, I asked and he nodded.

I could tease him now and just sit down on his lap facing him with my legs on both sides of his thighs but that would probably be too much. It would be nice to see him all flustered but I think it probably was too early to do something like this. I sat down on his lap and instantly had his arms wrapped around my waist again.

“You are especially cuddly today, aren’t you?”, I laughed happy and moved a bit so I was almost laying on top of him.

“Can’t I cuddle you whenever I want?”, he asked and looked at me.

“Of course you can”, I answered and reached up to playfully ruffle his hair which made him giggle.

We watched a bit TV and stayed in silence until Taeyong began to talk.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure. I’m all ears”

“When the trial is over next month…uhm…what will happen then?”

I was confused by his question. What did he mean with what will happen? It sounded like it was depressing him. I looked up at him over my head and saw his face. Worry was written all over it.

“What do you mean?”, I asked back.

I needed more information to answer his question.

“I mean…will you make me…yours?”, he asked hesitating and getting quieter with every word spoken.

This question made me even more confused. What did he mean by “making me yours”? After a short while of thinking something from an article about hybrids popped into my mind. It was about hybrids falling in love with humans. The text said that they would want to be as close as possible, in real life and legally meaning that the closest of being with a human was through the adoption since it was still forbidden for hybrids and humans to marry, which in my opinion was total bullshit. As this realization hit me I turned around and looked directly at Taeyong.

“Did you just ask me to adopt you?”, I asked excited since that could mean that this was almost like asking someone to marry you in the human world.

“Y-Yes. I mean you don’t have to if you don’t feel that way but-“

Before he could end his sentence I had already pressed a finger to his lips making him shut up. I didn’t need any more words from him to know my decision. There wasn’t even any thinking needed to know what I was gonna say.

“Taeyong. There is no way I would say no to adopting you. See I couldn’t imagine being without you anymore so don’t even think that I don’t feel the same way as you do. And actually…I was gonna ask you sometime soon if you wanted me to adopt you since you’d be free after the trial.”

I send him the happiest smile and saw him return an even happier one. He then hugged me and pressed his forehead against mine.

“I like you”, he said, his words filled with love.

“I like you, too”, I answered and nuzzled my nose against his.

God I loved this boy so much. I could melt in his arms right at this moment. The softness his voice had as he said these words warmed my heart and made me fall in love with him even more. We separated again and I pressed a quick kiss to his cheek before I stood up to go to the kitchen.

“I’ll get the cookies, just a sec”, I said and almost ran to get the kitchen to grab what I baked earlier.

I placed them on a plate and walked back to the couch. This time I placed myself next to Taeyong so I could cuddle against him while we watched TV. Taeyong wasn’t used to being cuddled against like this. I noticed that because he didn’t know where to place his arms. I helped him and placed his one arm around me and took the other and intertwined our fingers. He looked down at me and then kissed my head like I would always do whenever he cuddled against me. Just this little copying me in this situation made my heart beat faster and I could hear Taeyongs heartbeat fasten too. As we were watching TV and eating the cookies from the plate a commercial about the new amusement park in town was screening. I remembered Jenny at work telling me excited like a child how amazing the park would be and it actually sounded like something perfect for tomorrows Saturday.

“Hey. What do you think? Wanna go to that opening tomorrow?”, I asked still munching on my cookie.

“I don’t know. I’ve never been to an amusement park”, he said which made me sit up and look at him in shock.

“Then we definitely have to go. You will love it. There are a lot of fun rides, you can buy lottery tickets and win things like cute keychains to huge stuffed animals and there is a Ferris wheel with a view over the whole city. It will be fun”

“DID YOU SAY STUFFED ANIMALS?”

Now I knew that this was a brilliant idea. His eyes sparkled and his tail whipped from side to side excitedly.

“Yes. Stuffed animals. We could take the boys and Haechanie with us. That would be fun, don’t you think?”

He nodded without losing that sparkle in his eyes. I could already imagine Taeyong running around with a stuffed animal in his arms pressed tightly against his body while he walks around with wide eyes taking in all the new sensations and eating pink cotton candy. Only the image in my head made me smile like an idiot. This was going to be the best day ever.

Next part                                                                

#nct #nct taeyong #nct 127 #nct 127 Taeyong #nct johnny #nct mark #nct haechan #nct fluff #fluff #kpop #hybrid taeyong #hybrid haechan #living with a hybrid #hybrid au #nct taeyong x reader #taeyong x reader #nct hybrid au

[words-writ-in-starlight]

pied *clap* piper *clap* avatar *clap* of *clap* slaughter!!! *clap* I LOVE the music + slaughter connection, personally. It honestly makes the slaughter one of my favorite entities for that reason? Like, beautiful music of any kind creating brutal uncaring violence, a majestic tune being the backdrop for rage and disembowelment and terror like the world has never seen before. Just. HEARTEYES. On a more silly note: ska punk slaughter avatar, yes or yes?

I just listened to theepisode about the Slaughter’s failed ritual (the Risen War, that’s such a fucking badass name that I’m going to steal it for myDnD campaign or for DIE or something, like, fuck) and I am more serious than ever aboutthe Pied Piper of Hamelin being a Slaughter avatar.

I am also VERY seriousabout Melanie still hearing music after she gets the bullet out of herleg!  She doesn’t even BEGIN to know how to tell her therapist about it,about how awful it is to feelher heart beat in time to a flute she can’t see, about how up-tempo drums playthrough her bones every time she’s angry—and she’s still so goddamn angry—abouthow bagpipes make her want to rip someone’s throat out with her teeth,someone who wronged her, who betrayed her, who cut into herand TOOK HER VIOLENCE—

Half the reason she’sso fast to snarl at Jon these days because she’s desperately afraid ofwhat will happen if he is in the room when the last vestiges of the Slaughtersweep her up in the embrace of music and dancing and blood again.  It’s happened, removing the bullet onlystopped the onward march of the army through Melanie’s veins, didn’t strip thepoison gas from the earth or fill in the trenches—she punched a mirror until itshattered, once, shouting the words of an old Chinese soldier’s song that shecan’t remember anymore, until Helen had to spend an hour using the tips of hertoo-sharp fingers to pick glass out of Melanie’s knuckles.  The glass had fallen within the corridors andlanded as sand, as feathers, as gemstones, as the too-sharp phalanges ofsomething that was no longer Michael Shelley.

Melanie had watchedher blood well up numbly and watched the twisting shapes of the glass numblyand put the open cuts to her mouth to taste the iron life in her veins numbly,and the whole time she had prayed that she would never lose control like thatwhile there was a target available. She’s not sure who the worst option would be.  Jon, who might be able to defend himself atthe cost of Melanie’s sanity, and his own humanity, and maybe the world, if itopened a big enough crack in whatever wall he’d been keeping up againstBeholding.  Basira, who probably couldn’tprotect herself if Melanie really, really wanted her dead, and whosedeath would have few consequences except, probably, Melanie’s own, when Daisy foundout.  Daisy, who might stand there anddie rather than rejoin the Hunt.  

Probably better thatMelanie spends most of her time with Helen, these days.  

#the magnus archives #melanie king #i regret to inform that--despite my father's best interests--ska never really grew on me and therefore i have nothing to contribute to that #but HERE TAKE MY MELANIE FEELINGS #i could write a whole fic about melanie thinking of herself as a battlefield post-slaughter #it would be ludicrously over-laden with wwi imagery and probably include an upsetting comparison between blood and mustard gas #(melanie's blood runs hot in her veins but...not like fire nor like acid) #(it BLISTERS from the inside out and soaks into everything it touches and lingers waiting to be disturbed again) #(so that it can burn some other soul like it burns her) #melanie is half furious with jon and half terrified of jon and half terrified of herself and half desperate to save jon from HIMself #and if that sounds like a lot of halves it IS #and melanie isn't really sure what to do with them all #she tells helen this once and helen absently says 'sounds like the right number of halves to me' #and melanie is like 'yeah but then there would be two of me' #and helen just blinks at her in obvious confusion until melanie has to look away #queue deeper than the sea of stars #rorrimehtnienoeht #asked and answered

[hennessystevens-udaku]

Happy Birthday, Daka

Warnings: This is a tear-jerker, y’all. Please grab some tissues before reading.

Sunlight shined bright into the shared bedroom of the couple’s condo. It’s occupants slept peacefully, their bodies still intertwined from the previous night’s activities. Someone just had to have some birthday sex as soon as the clock struck Midnight.

“Like we always do it this time, I go for mine I got to shine, now throw your hands up in the skyyyy..”

The sounds of Kanye West and T-Pain pulled the young woman from her slumber as her usual 9:45 am alarm went off. She rose with a stretch, a sly smile creeping across her face as she stared back at the sleeping man. Today was her best friend’s birthday and she had an entire itinerary of things planned out for his enjoyment.

“Wake up Fathead!” she yelled, jumping up and down on the bed beside him. He groaned in protest, rolling over on his stomach pulling the pillow over his head. This had become their yearly tradition. Whenever their birthdays rolled around, they made it their mission to give the birthday girl or boy the most obnoxious wake up call ever. She almost always won.

“Erik N’Jadaka Stevens-Udaku! Wake yo black ass up!” she exclaims, repeatedly hitting him over the head with her pillow.

“Shyyyyy,” he whined into the mattress. “It’s too early for all this.”

“Fine. I’ll go to iHop by myself,” she teased as she sauntered into the bathroom. He perked up at that.

“Well why didn’t you just say that, Princess? You know a nigga loves pancakes.” He rose from the bed with a few caveman-like grunts, as he shuffled into the bathroom behind her. They stood in comfortable silence as they completed their morning rituals, both of them making silly faces in the mirror as they brushed their teeth.

“Don’t take too long old man,” she called over her shoulder as she made her way to her closet to choose her outfit for the day.

“Whatever lil girl, I’m only 37.”

“Yeah, and in my eyes, that’s an old geezer,” she teased. He gave her a pointed look before closing the bathroom door in her face. He knew that this was only the beginning of her jokes and needed a few moments to mentally prepare for the laughs he knew they were about to share. While he showered, she pulled down two black and gold boxes and stuffed them in her messenger bag. She then grabbed the stack of worn letters and made sure that they were tucked neatly into the pocket on the inside of the bag. Unbeknownst to him, she had done some research and found something that would make this birthday one that he wouldn’t soon forget.

“Hurry up! My stomach is touching my back,” she complained outside of the bathroom door. Though she was the most feminine of the two, he was a diva when it came to getting dressed to go out. There was a brief moment of shuffling before he finally emerged, dressed in a white t-shirt, blue jeans that were ripped at the knee and a pair of black and white Jordan 12s.

“I could’ve sworn it was my day. Why you rushing me, shawty?”

“Because we’ve got places to be and you taking longer than a bitch heading to a dick appointment.”

“Well excuse me, your highness,” he grumbled as he slipped his Cuban link around his neck. “I see you tryna match my fly or whatever. You just gotta remind everybody know the Queen Bee is, huh?” he taunted as his eyes roamed over her curvy physique dressed in an outfit similar to his.

“Whatever nigga. Let’s go before I die of starvation,” she quipped as she made her way outside. He followed with a shake of his head and a loud barking laugh. Today was gonna be one for the books.

“Do you want your first gift now or later?” she asked as he finished his fourth short stack of pancakes.

“Now please,” he mumbled, flashing his perfect pearly whites. She smiled, reaching into the pocket of her messenger bag. She pulled out the smaller black and gold box and sat it in front of him. He wasted no time tearing open the box, revealing a set of 24-karat gold bottom grillz with a Cuban link accent.

“Yo, this shit is flames! Thank you, Princess.”

“I guess you’re welcome or whatever,” she replied with a smirk. He quickly removed his bottom caps, replacing them with the grill. He smiled and ran his tongue over the metal, eliciting a low groan from her.

“Hey, stop that. We’re in public.” He smirked, flicking his tongue a few more times before stopping completely.

“Nasty ass,” she grumbled.

“I don’t hear you complaining when ya pussy in my mouth.”

“Fuck you!” “After breakfast, ma.”

--

The rest of the day played out like a movie. After breakfast the pair went to the arcade and then shopping, spending copious amounts of money on one another. That was one of the traits about Erik that she loved and hated. He had been through so much in his life that he never wanted to be the center of attention. He would always find a way to do or buy something for her on his birthday. Just a token of his appreciation, he would say.

“Where we headed princess?” he asked as she drove near the outskirts of town.

“You’ll find out soon,” she replied as she gripped the steering wheel tighter. She was nervous about how he would react when they reached their destination and could only hope the she was doing the right thing. They drove for about 30 minutes before they reached St. Augustine Cemetery.

“A cemetery?” he asked in confusion. It’s now or never Shy.

“Y-Yeah,” she stuttered. “I did a little research and found somethings I figured you’d want to see. If you don’t want to, tell me now and we can go home.” He searched her face, noting the seriousness of her tone. They sat in silence before he spoke again.

“What’s that?” he asked, gesturing to the black box in her bag. She hesitated before pulling it out and sitting it in his lap. She watched as his fingers slowly traced the box before he removed the lid and peered inside.

“How did you..”

“It wasn’t easy, but I called every prison in California to see if any of them had any records of a Sylvia Stevens. I finally found one just outside of Oakland. I went by and picked up everything she had in her possession when she died.” A lone tear fell down his cheek as he pulled out various items. There were photos of him as a baby, pictures of them when he and N’Jobu would come to visit, and a necklace with a ring, similar to the one that he wore around his neck in honor of his late father. They sat in silence as he immersed himself in the memories of his late mother.

“These were there too,” she said as she pulled out the stack of envelopes. His hands trembled as he held the letters, each one addressed to him.

“S-She responded,” he said in a whisper. “I was so angry because I wrote her every chance I got, but never received a response. I thought she forgot about me, but she responded to every one.”

“Do you want to get out?”

“Yeah.”

The pair made the short journey up the hill before stopping at a large oak tree.

“She didn’t have a headstone, so I bought one,” Hennessy confessed. Erik was silent as he gazed over the sight when his mother laid. His hand shakily reached out and touched the granite headstone.

“I miss you Mama,” was all he said before he fell to his knees, tears falling down his cheeks in streams. “I hope you can see me up there. I hope I’m making you proud. I’ve been so lost without you, yet you’ve been here this whole time. I wish you were here to see your grandchildren. They’re the most precious little things ever. Your daughter-in-laws are amazing too. I swear I don’t know where I would be without them.” Hennessy walked up behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Thank you, Shy. This means more to me than you’ll ever know,” he said as he wiped his tears on his shirt.

“I was nervous about bringing you here. I didn’t know how you would feel having to relive that pain again.” “Thank you, Princess. Now that I know where she is, I can finally get some closure. This was the best birthday gift ever.” The two shared a passionate kiss before sitting down under the oak tree. They sat for hours as Erik told the story of how he went to Wakanda and how he came to have 9 wives to the headstone as though her mother-in-law was right there. They finally headed back to the car when night fell, not wanting to be caught in a cemetery after dark. They spent the rest of the night in her greenhouse, getting high and reading the letters that Sylvia wrote to her son while she was incarcerated.

“I love you, Princess.” “I love you too, Daka. Happy birthday.”

********************

TAGS:  @vibranium-soul @imagine-mbaku @mareethequeen @greennightspider @eriknutinthispoosy @hearteyes-for-killmonger @blackpantherismyish @muse-of-mbaku @thehomierobbstark @wifeyofnjadaka @youreadthatright @tgigoldie @killmongersgurl @dameshaemonique @princessstevens @princesskillmonger @amethyst1993 @iamrheaspeaks @laketaj24 @bidibidibombaclaat @allhailnjadaka @whatmoredoyouwantamericaa @forbeautyandlife @yaachtynoboat711 @panthergoddessbast @inlovewithmakeupcomicsanimelove @dacreskars @thadelightfulone @drsunshine97 @wakanda-inspired @wawakanda-btch @hold-me-like-a-heart-beat @ayellepea @awkwardlyabstract @madamslayyy @blowmymbackout @vikkidc @champagnesugamama @sociallyawkward18 @trevantesbrat @supersizemeplz

#Erik Stevens #Hennessy Chiron #erik x henny #poly!erik #the first lady #the kompound #my shit

[eye-raq]

So it’s 2am

You’ve been FEINING FOR THAT ACT RIGHT. The only dick you can turn to on a late night in Oakland is Erik Stevens.

Just some good old sex y’all. Erik smut the only smut I ❤️

Erik x black readerrrrrrr!!!!!

—————————————————————

*knock knock*

There were faint sounds coming from inside of his Oakland apartment that you knew all too well. Shuffling could be heard on the other side of the door and in about another 10 seconds the door swung open to find Erik staring you down; shirtless and only in his briefs.

He took a long drag of his freshly rolled blunt in his hand, eyeing you from head to toe with a calculating stare.

“Wassup?” He lets the smoke from his nose out slow before rubbing at the back of his neck, “you know it’s 2 am right?”

She knoded her head, biting at her lower lip expectantly, “I know Erik...I just” she smirked to herself twirling a single curl from her pinappled fro, “I haven’t seen you in about a week.”

A vivid smirk crept up his face as he chuckled low, eyebrow flicking up in recognition, “all you gotta do is be real wit me girl. You want me to fuck you right?”

Heat filled her belly like no other as she stared into those brown eyes of his waiting for her response.

“Yeah, I miss it.” She spoke low, hands all fidgety fumbling with the hem of her oversized t shirt dress.

“Okay then” Erik stepped further into the apartment holding the door open wide, “come in baby girl I don’t bite”

She walked pass Erik and into his living space, scanning the area always intrigued about his lifstyle.

Erik walked pass to toss his blunt down onto the table finally settling on the couch, legs spread running his hands along his thighs

“Come straddle my lap”

She walked over to him placing herself in between his knees, kicking off her vans.

She crawled onto his lap, legs swinging over him, moist center touching his already growing crotch

“Ared since you decided to pop up at my place going on 2:30 am, ima sit back and watch you put in some work” Erik spread his arms over the back of his couch, finger tips scratching at the suede slow

“You gonna do that for me? I’m a little tired I had a long fucking day” Erik licked his lips, running his hands up and down her thighs to her hips digging his fingertips in deep.

“Okay..” she slowly lifted her shirt over her head revealing nothing but her royal purple lace thong underneath, titties visible and alert with her skull nipple rings.

“You looking real fucking sexy girl” Erik smiled up tiredly at her, gripping her ass hard. “Take this fucking thong off though”

She giggled low, standing up over him on the couch, taking the thong off slow, never leaving his line of vision. Erik studied her body with close interest, tongue grazing the inside of his cheek. He lifted his hips from the couch, dragging his briefs down.

“I’m sorry, I had a little bit to drink before I came here,” she confessed finally coming flesh to flesh with Erik’s stiff dick.

“It’s cool shawty, shid me too.” His dreads lay messily on his forehead as he peered down at her rubbing her clit in slow circles, body jerking after every motion.

“You like touching that pussy?” Erik encouraged her with a low alluring tone, “I can smell that pussy from here you really want this dick this late don’t you?”

“Yessss” she hissed feeling her clit going stiff under her fingers, sensitivity rising.

A little bit of her wetness dripped like slime almost, onto Erik’s lap causing him to throw his head back “fuck I felt that shit girl keep going”

Erik jerked his hips up towards her pussy while she decided to insert two fingers, pumping quick making gushing noises.

“Ahh-ahh daddy” she moaned out, gripping the back of the couch with one hand, face contorting in pleasure.

“Mmmm” he moaned out, slapping her ass in surprise. “Where that cum at girl?” He asked expectantly arms spread over the back of the couch like he was on his throne, “I know you got something for me in that box of yours”

Her stomach turned into knots and butterflies drove her crazy as she clenched her legs tight, creme oozing from her center; coating her fingers and the shaft of Erik’s dick.

“Shittt” Erik groaned out, gripping her hand admiring her creme coated fingers before sliding them into his mouth, sucking slow.

She released her fingers, grabbing up his hard dick tight, lining it up with her entrance.

“Put me in there” he said impatiently, tired eyes alert now.

She slowly slid herself down onto his length, body feeling brand new after it’s been about a week. She cried out low, hands running up the length of his chest, head tilted in awe, eyes closed.

Biting at her lip, she started grinding back and forth, hips meeting his, tight.

“This tight ass shit you got girl” Erik’s flexed with every stroke, pulling her head close to give her a sloppy French kiss.

“Work this dick girl come on” he encouraged low, watching her began to bounce, gushy pussy sliding along his thick dick.

“Mmmm daddy” she moaned out longingly, “I’m so happy-“

“Happy about what?” Erik’s voice sounded weak as he clenched his fists.

“I’m happy I got this dick I wanted it so fucking bad” she whined out.

Her bouncing become even more rough, ass clapping on his pelvis. She could feel his head brush against her g spot with every stroke and she was coming up on her second orgasm.

“Oh shit oh shit, daddy omg!” She shook with deep vibrations.

“Fuck!” Erik flared his golds, “keep going bitch”

She bounced again, wetness coating the space between them now, sex filling the room. She put all her power in her strokes, handling all his dick; every inch.

“You a real dick pleaser you know that right, fucking freak.” He grunted deep staring at her with knitted eye brows, “I got you where I want you now”

She gave two more strokes before slamming down quick, body shaking as if going into shock, eyes fluttering. Her third cum. Erik was in complete awe at this point.

“Work this dick baby, it’s yours...it’s all yours take what’s yours” he knew he was getting close from the way he twitched inside her, the sensitivity too much to bare.

She picked up the pace for a third time now, leaning in to take his plump moist lip in between her teeth, drawing back and letting go with a pop.

There bodies were merely a blur, and his dick felt like gold to her, she needed this and tossing and turning in bed wasn’t helping. What better way than to relive your dream right?

“Mmm yeah daddy this dick, I like it”

“You love it or you like it? Stop playing with me.”

Erik gripped her hips tight now, pounding deep.

“You gon make me fucking cum girl, look what you about to make me do”

She moaned out loud, loud enough for the neighbors to here, the smacking flesh bouncing off the walls.

“Daddy me too I sware.” She rested her head at the crook of his neck, limbs in his total control

“Daddy please keep going I need it again.”

“I know love, daddy got you okay?”

He pounded. And pounded. And pounded

“DAMN” he hissed,

“Yesss!” She cried out body stiffening over him again, pussy clamping on him tight from her orgasm

“Shit you gon get this nut now” he jerked up into her rough, spilling his seed deep in her like he wanted her to have his baby. They locked eyes momentarily, bodies tight and stiff before crashing, finally releasing from each others grasp.

She layed out next to him, naked body cradled to her chest, biting at her black colored nails blush visible.

“Damn girl it’s 3 am, and this what you decide to put me through.” Erik shook his head letting out a tired laugh before lifting from the couch weakly, pulling her up into his arms.

“Come on it’s too fucking late for you to be traveling home on your own... and speaking of that I’m about to dig in your shit.”

He flicked off the living room lamp, walking to his room.

“You know these streets fucking crazy what’s wrong with your ass coming out this late for some dick? What if some nigga tried something...”

————————————————————-

Hope you guys love it 💗 this was quick and nasty 💦

@wakandas-vibranium @wakanda-inspired @panthergoddessbast @hearteyes-for-killmonger @wifin-niggaz @wifeyofnjadaka

@blackpantherismyish @thickoreo @princessstevens @bartierbakarimobisson @thehomierobbstark @eriknutinthispoosy @youreadthatright @palmsofgranate @thehonorablekingerik @vanitykocaine

[choicesfanatic86]

Almost:  Chapter 6 (Liam x MC)

DISCLAIMER:  All characters belong to Pixelberry Studios, except characters unique to my story.  Those belong to me. ;)

PAIRINGS:  Liam x Riley (MC)

SUMMARY:  Riley Lawson didn’t believe in second chances, until one night a face from her past makes a shocking reappearance in her life.

Permanent Tag List:  @umccall71 @drakelover78 @jamielea81 @bobasheebaby @speedyoperarascalparty @hopefulmoonobject @theroyalweisme @gardeningourmet @jlouise88 @hamulau @traeumerinwitzhelden @blackcatkita @mrs-simmy @kaitycole @alwaysthebestchoice @mfackenthal @trr-duchessofvaltoria @pbchoicesobsessed @liamxs-world @flyawayblue56 @devineinterventions2 @ranishajay @jayjay879 @alepowell @greyeyedsmile14 @mspaigemoore @princesaakl @annekebbphotography

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Want to catch up? Check out my MASTER LIST

7/19/18 - Chapter 6 is really long! I apologize in advance. Yikes! I should have split it into two, but I just felt it flowed better this way.  I have a keep reading set, so don't get mad if it doesn’t show on mobile!  3 I know that I am setting up a lot of backstory, but I promise the social season is coming soon! 

Thank you! As always if you want to be tagged, send me a message!

Chapter 6

When they reached the outside of the club, Riley couldn’t believe that the line to enter was still wrapped around the building.  The entire area was still bustling with activity and it was nearly midnight.  At least that meant that more than a few cabs would be flocking to the area and it wouldn’t be difficult to hail one to get her back safely to her apartment.  She spotted the designated cabbie pick up and drop off area and was about to head off into that direction when a loud roar of grumbles came at both of them out of nowhere.  Riley turned toward the ranting and watched as Liam’s other friends stomped angrily in their direction.

“Liam, have you gone mad?” Tariq exclaimed.  “A bar fight?  How common of you,” he admonished.  “I’d expect something as lowly from Drake, but you?  How could you?”  He says in horror.  He shook his head as he placed his arms defensively across his body.  “Kismet is one of the finest clubbing establishments in the entire city.  It took me weeks to secure its VIP services,” he grumbled.  “You probably accosted a local dignitary or celebrity,” he frowned.  “Not to mention you cut the evening’s festivities rather short,” he glanced down at his expensive-looking watch.  “It isn’t even midnight,” he bemoaned.  “I hadn’t even had the opportunity to take a tour of their VIP rooms,” he said with a look of disappointment.

“Yeah, I was in the middle of an epic dance off with a beautiful girl,” Maxwell sighed dramatically.  “I was smoking her until Drake came up rather abruptly and pulled me from the dance floor.  “I had to forfeit the battle,” he whined.

Liam looked at his friends in disapproval, but he didn’t really seem surprised by their griping.  “I’m sorry that in ensuring a young woman’s safety you were inconvenienced and couldn’t enjoy the evening’s festivities,” he said with a bit of sarcasm in his tone.  “However will you survive,” he shook his head.

“We appreciate the apology, Liam, but – “

Maxwell elbowed Tariq, cutting him off.  “I think he was being sarcastic,” he mumbled.

Tariq paused for a moment, before beginning to ramble on and on again about how their last night in New York was ruined because there were no other plans for the evening.  Riley was awkwardly standing behind them, not really knowing whether she should join their little circle or stand back like the outsider that she technically was. Listening to them banter back and forth and made her feel a tad bit uncomfortable.  She was the reason that their evening was cut short.  She contemplated sneaking off toward the cabbie area.  There were at least three waiting, she could easily hop into one and be done with all of this chaos.  His friends hadn’t noticed her presence, and Liam seemed wrapped up in the banter, so she could easily sneak off without any sort of awkward goodbye.  Considering she never got a goodbye from him the first time around, it seemed pretty fair to return the favor.  She hesitated for a moment, wondering if that was the right decision.  Technically, she was safe.  Her harasser and his friends, from the looks of it, hadn’t stuck around to give her more trouble.  They had probably gone out to another club or back home to sleep off their drunkenness.  There was no reason for her to stick around.  So then, why was she still here?  She eyed Liam a bit reluctantly, a mix of emotions rushing through her.  She realized that she didn’t’ have an answer to that question.  She shifted uncomfortably on her feet, debating what to do.  That small movement caused the men’s eyes to move in her direction.

“Hey!” Maxwell exclaimed.  “It’s the waitress from the bar.”

Tariq’s attention shifted from scolding Liam to admiring Riley.  “So it is,” he murmured, his eyes gazing over her body.  She couldn’t help but feel a bit uncomfortable under his leering.  “That uniform was not doing you justice,” he winked at her.  

“Yeah, the waitress is hot,” Maxwell said rather loudly.

She could feel the blush creeping up from her neck to her cheeks.  She couldn’t help but cringe.  She was starting to agree with Drake’s earlier line of reasoning that these two were utter morons.  She sighed, her eyes darting in the direction of the cabs. So close, yet so far away, she mused.

“Her name is Riley, and I doubt she appreciates you talking about her like that,” Liam narrowed his eyes at the other men.  “Especially after the evening she’s just had,” he said in annoyance.  She looked at him in surprise.  She sent a small smile of gratitude his way.  So maybe he wasn’t so different from the Liam she remembered after all.  

“Sorry . . . like I told you at the bar, they don’t get out much,” Drake approached the group from behind, shaking his head.  She turned around, meeting his gaze.  “They forget how to act around normal people,” he smirked and mouthed the word “morons.”  She stifled a chuckle.

“Knock it off, okay?” Drake narrowed his eyes at the other two men.  “Kismet was a bust, get over it.”

Maxwell and Tariq started to protest a bit more, but Drake held his hand up not wanting to hear any more complaints.

Riley couldn’t help but feel responsible for derailing the night’s events.  The guilt had been weighing heavily on her since the bar fight.  “I’m sorry that the bachelor party got ruined,” she murmured.  “It’s totally on me, guys.  Not Liam . . . not Drake,” she admitted.  “I know you were kind of giving him a hard time about it, but if I hadn’t have run into some trouble in the club, you guys would still be enjoying your evening.  So if you’re going to be mad at anyone, be mad at me,” she suggested.

“It’s hardly your fault,” Liam shrugged.  “To be quite honest, I hadn’t really enjoyed being in that nightclub in the first place,” he admitted.  

Tariq and Maxwell’s faces fell at Liam’s comments.

“I’m sorry, I know you spent a lot of time planning it, but it just wasn’t the night I had envisioned,” he said somberly.  “It’s probably best if we all call it a night.”

“Who says the night is over?” Drake chimes in.  “We’re in the city that never sleeps and our flight leaves in the morning . . . who knows when any of us will come back here . . . I say we should use tonight to our full advantage.  After all, we got a bona fide New Yorker who can be our tour guide,” he motioned to Riley.

She looked at him warily.  “I really should get going . . .” she shook her head.  “I work tomorrow . . . hopefully,” she sighed.  “And besides, I’m probably the worst person to take you around . . . I spend most of my time at home watching Netflix or reading.  Plus it’s not like I can really drive my car right now . . . ,” she was thinking up every single reason just so that she could escape.  She had gone into this completely and thoroughly ready to confront Liam, and now, all she wanted to do was run away and never look back.  She was confused.  The attraction . . . the emotions she was feeling was clouding her mind and her judgment.  The idea of spending more time with Liam?  The thought alone gave her butterflies.  She wasn’t sure it was from nerves or excitement.  She sighed.  “I better head out  . . .,” she trailed off.  “There’s a lot of cabs now, I might not be so lucky if I wait much longer,” she explained.  

“Stay,” Liam said suddenly.

Everyone in the group turned to look at him.  Riley’s mouth gaped open a bit.  

“I’m sorry?” She asked.  She’d heard him perfectly clear.  She just didn’t know how to respond.

“Stay with us,” he repeated.  He tore his gaze away from her, clearing his throat.  “I mean, Drake’s right.  You are a New Yorker, so I’m certain you know of some pretty interesting spots to go out and see,” he reasoned.   “I – “ he stopped himself.  “My friends don’t want the night to be over just yet,” he breathed out.

She looked at him carefully.  She shrugged, mulling it over for a moment.  “I mean . . . I guess I do,” she admitted.  “There’s a spot I like to go to,” she said quietly.  “But it’s not really like a party scene, but I like it,” she said.

“Then I’m sure we’ll like it, too, Lawson.” Drake agreed.  “I’ve got the car keys.  Why don’t you sit up front with me and tell me where to go,” he suggested as he moved a bit closer to Riley’s side.  

Liam grabbed the keys out of Drake’s hands and shook his head.  “You won’t be driving anywhere,” he said seriously.  “I saw you drinking at the bar tonight.  I only had a little scotch, and I didn’t even finish it.  I’ll drive,” he said.

“I’m not drunk,” he protested.

“I’m driving,” Liam said firmly, his eyes narrowing at Drake.  

Riley sucked in her breath.  Well, this changed things a bit.  Riley could feel her heartbeat quicken at the thought of sitting next to him in the car.  Of course, they wouldn’t be alone, but the general idea of being so close to him gave her body goose bumps.

“But I wanted to sit shotgun,” Maxwell whined, glaring at Drake and Liam.  “I’m the car DJ!” He grumbled as he began to sulk.  “Who’s going to find all of the appropriate musical interludes for our conversations,” he sighed dramatically.

“It’ll be a relief not to have the radio station change every two seconds,” Liam commented.  “Riley will sit up front with me, the rest of you in the back,” he said with finality.  “Come on, let’s get going,” he motioned in the direction toward the parking lot.

Drake shot Liam a pleading look.  “Aw come on, Liam.  You’re gonna make me sit next to the two of them?” He grimaced, pointing to Maxwell and Tariq.

“I think it should be us who has who should be saying that,” Tariq cringed.  “You smell like a distillery,” he grumbled.

The three continued to grumble, which Riley thought was rather ironic, since Drake, who hadn’t wanted to hear any more complaining, was the one doing the most of it.

“They aren’t always like this,” Liam said as they walked side by side.  She could see the need to defend his friends written clear across his face.  

“They all seem so different,” she commented, looking behind her and the three men.  “I mean, I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, it’s just, usually birds of a feather flock together, ya know?  Kind of strange that you became friends with people with such different personalities,” she shrugged.

He shrugged, letting the conversation drop without giving her a response.  He walked ahead of her, unlocking the car.  He opened her passenger side door before heading over to the driver’s side and hopping in.  She watched him with a bit of curiosity.  So, talking to her made him uncomfortable.  At least that’s what it seemed like . . .  but he was still trying to be chivalrous by opening the door for her?  Yes, that made perfect sense.  She could feel an eye roll come on.  The tension between them was getting stronger and stronger the more time they spent with one another.  She sighed, her head spinning.  He was starting to give her whiplash with all of these hot and cold mixed signals.  

The drive to her secret spot wasn’t too long, but the silence in the car made it feel much longer.  The only time she spoke was when she was rattling off directions to Liam.  She had been so nervous to sit next to him, that she forgot that he wasn’t a New Yorker, so all her directions toward side streets and short cuts were getting him a bit flustered.  It took about twenty minutes before they pulled into an empty parking lot just off a small cove right off a small beach.

“So, here we are,” she looked around the car.  “I found this place during my first year of college,” she explained.  “I had gotten lost driving around, and ended up here.  The view is spectacular,” she murmured, turning forward and gazing out of the windshield.

“A beach?” Tariq exclaimed.  “Do you know how expensive these shoes are?  The sand will ruin them!”

Riley frowned, not expecting that to be his reaction.  Then again, she shouldn’t have been surprised.  Out of everyone, he’d been the most difficult throughout the night.  She did her best to ignore his comment as she stepped out of the passenger seat, breathing in the fresh air.  There was a reason she loved coming here.  Hardly anyone ever came here, so it gave her a lot of time to take in the sights and just think.  She’d found herself coming here nearly every day when she returned from Germany.  It provided her with a bit of solace after everything that had happened.

“Then stay here,” Drake said curtly.  “Trust me, you won’t be missed,” he added in a bit quieter.

“Drake,” Liam warned as he got out of the driver’s seat.  “Can’t we at least try to all get along?  One more night together, that’s it,” he said quietly.

“What?  If Mr. Prissy doesn’t want to have a little fun tonight, then so be it. Let him stay in the car and sulk about it.”

“Come now, Tariq.  Just look at that beautiful view,” Maxwell motioned.  “At least come down and enjoy the sights for a few minutes,” he suggested as he stepped out of the vehicle and stretched his legs.  He had been sandwiched in the middle of Tariq and Drake in the car.

“Alright,” he sighed in defeat, slamming the car door a bit angrily.  “But I’ll be sure to send you the bill if my shoes get ruined.  They’re made out of Italian leather,” he emphasized.

Riley couldn’t help but roll her eyes.  

“Good choice, Lawson.  This place is gorgeous,” Drake smiled brightly.  “Let’s set up a fire,” he said quickly, feeling a chill in the air.

“Too bad we don’t have smores!” Maxwell added.  “That would have made things even better,” he sighed.

“Um, I’m not quite sure an open fire is allowed on the beach,” she said hesitantly.

“Trust me.  I know what I’m doing.  Liam, want to join us?”

“I think I’ll go explore a bit further back,” he said quietly, pulling away from the rest of the group.

Riley watched as he strolled up toward the rocky ledge that was settled right above the cove area.  She sighed in disappointment.  So much for having an opportunity to talk to him.  

“I’ll help,” Maxwell exclaimed excitedly.

Drake shot him a glare.  “You stay at least twenty feet away from me at all times.  With your luck, you’ll end up setting the whole damn beach on fire.”

Maxwell looked a bit disheartened, but trudged away from Drake and Riley and headed down toward the water.  He picked up a few rocks and dejectedly started to throw them into the water.

“Do you have to be so mean to him?” Riley asked.  “He seems to really want to be your friend,” she frowned.

“He’s annoying . . .” Drake grumbled, running a hand through his hair.  “Besides, I’ve been stuck with him as a roommate for nearly a week.  He’s tap-dancing on my last nerves.”

“I get he’s a bit . . . hyper . . .,” she looked down toward the waterline as Maxwell kicked off his shoes and rolled up his pants.  “But he seems harmless,” she countered.  “You should try harder to get along with him.  Tariq too for that matter.  For Liam’s sake,” Riley suggested.

Drake rolled his eyes, but nodded.  He quickly changed the subject as he started to collect some loose branches that were strewn around the sand.  “So, you changed your tune rather quickly,” he commented as he started to collect some branches and rocks to get a fire going.

“What?” She asked, picking up a few branches of her own.

“The last thing you said to me back before everything got crazy at the club was that you hope to never see any of us again.  Yet, here you are . . .taking us to your special spot,” he motioned around them.  “I say that’s pretty much the opposite of hoping to never see us again,” he smirked.

Riley eyed him suspiciously.  “You’re right . . . I did say that.  And I meant it . . . at the time,” she said firmly.  “Then Liam saved me back there, and I guess I got a bit sentimental,” she shrugged.  “This doesn’t mean anything.”

“Keep telling yourself that, Lawson,” he muttered as he bent down on the sand trying to get the fire going.

She frowned.  “I think you were wrong about Liam wanting to see me again,” she threw out nonchalantly.  “I mean . . . he’s sending me some pretty mixed signals,” she started to explain.  “So he goes all alpha on that guy back at the club . . . then stalks off without so much as a word to me . . . but then he comes back and he wants to walk me out and make sure I get home safely . . . and then he wants me to play tour guide, and when I agree, he gives me the cold shoulder,” she rambled.  “And now I think I’ve just complicated an already complicated situation by coming out with you guys tonight . . . and I didn’t even have the guts to confront him about anything . . . and it’s not like he’s been exactly forthcoming with me either.  Ugh, this is so complicated,” she repeated, feeling a bit distraught.

“Whoa, breathe,” he glanced up at her.  “And stop using that word,” Drake narrowed his eyes.  “It’s a cop out.  Call it what it is.”

“Okay . . . but I don’t know what to call it . . . it’s a confusing mess . . . which is pretty much the same thing as saying it’s complicated,” she sighed.

“Why is it confusing?” Drake asked, busying himself with the sticks and rocks in front of him.  His eyes didn’t leave the task in front of him, but Riley knew he was still listening to her intently.

“Because just when I think I’m seeing the guy I remember from Germany, he goes from lukewarm to ice cold and it’s making my head spin.  I don’t know if he hates me or if he doesn’t want to talk about what happened back then,” she sighed.

“Liam’s going through a lot right now,” Drake said honestly, as he flicked the stick and a small flame appeared.

Riley looked up at him. “That actually worked?” She asked incredulously, momentarily forgetting about her lament about Liam.  “Come on, you’ve gotta be kidding me,” she exclaimed.  “I thought that sort of stuff only worked in the movies,” she chuckled.

“And you doubted my skills,” he sighed.  “I was a boy scout you know,” he smirked.

“Really?” She asked in surprise.  

“Nah, I’m just messing with you,” he shrugged.  “My dad taught me how to do this.  We used to go camping all the time together when I was a kid.”

She smiled.  “That sounds pretty cool,” she acknowledged.  “You and your dad must have a lot of fun together.  Do you guys still go out camping now?”

The smile slowly slipped from Drake’s face.  “Not anymore,” he shook his head, his voice faltering a little.  “He passed away a while ago.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” she said as she clasped her hands over her mouth.  “I’m just striking out left and right tonight,” she murmured.

“How would you have known?” He shrugged.  “It’s fine, Lawson.  It happened a long time ago.  It’s nice to remember him . . .it’s just hard to talk about, I guess.”

A quietness settled between them as they both stared out into the water.  Drake glanced behind him, noticing Liam staring out into the distance as well.

“Liam looks a little lonely up there,” he motioned to the top of the cove.  “Maybe now’s your chance to get that closure you were rambling on and on about,” he nudged her shoulder lightly.

She turned back to where he was pointing and saw Liam deep in thought.  “I told you.  He doesn’t want anything to do with me,” she exhaled.

“Lawson, Lawson, Lawson, are you blind?  And I thought I was oblivious,” he shook his head.  “He’s been wanting to talk to you since you got in the car . . . he was giving you little side glances the whole ride over.  Hell, I bet even longer than that considering how he reacted at the bar.”

“Yeah  . . about that . . . does that happen a lot?  Because that was pretty intense.  I only knew him for a little while, but he never, ever acted that way before. “

“Never,” Drake said firmly.  “It tripped me out just as much as it did you,” he sighed.  “He’s been under a lot of stress lately.  What with everything going on with the wedding plans,” he shrugged.  “I guess he’s a bit on edge.  I thought this trip would loosen him up a little.  I guess I was wrong.”

Riley placed a hand on Drake’s shoulder.  “I think this trip was just what he needed,” she reassured him.  “You’re a good friend.”

“Yeah, I know,” he smirked, waggling his eyebrows at her  “And as his good friend, I’m telling you to go up there and talk to him,” he motioned back toward Liam.  “Come on, Lawson.  What are the odds, remember?  You really gonna blow this chance?”

She looked at him thoughtfully shaking her head.  Drake was right.  Liam was only in New York until tomorrow, and then he’d go back to his fiancé and she likely would never see him again.  Now was the only opportunity she’d have to get any sort of explanation from him.  It seemed silly, stirring up all of these old emotions eight years later . . . she had mostly put things behind her.  Mostly being the operative word.  There were still times when her mind would drift to that summer they shared together.  As much as she wanted to pretend that his reasoning and the closure she wanted didn’t really matter . . . they did.  “You’re right.  It’s now or never right?” She inhaled deeply.  She mustered up what little courage she had left, and dusted the sand off of her body.

Drake gave her an encouragingly nod, as she started to walk up the incline toward the small ledge where Liam was sitting.  He looked lost in thought, and she wasn’t sure if she should interrupt him.  Inhaling deeply, she decided if she didn’t get this over with, she’d never have the chance again, so she cleared her throat and stood next o where he was sitting.

“Hey,” she said softly.

He looked up at her as she approached him, but didn’t say anything.

“How come you aren’t down there with the rest of us?”

He shrugged.  “I suppose I needed some time to think and breathe in some fresh air.  My friends . . . can be exhausting,” he sighed, although there was a small smile playing on his lips.  

She smiled lightly.  “I see what you mean.  Maxwell and Tariq are quite the characters . . . but Drake seems a bit more down to earth,” she commented.  “I can see why the two of you are friends,” she commented.

He nodded.  “You two seem to be getting along quite well,” he said with a tiny bit of bitterness as he motioned to the spot where Riley had been sitting by the fire.

She paused, sensing the tension.  Was he jealous?  There was a darkness in his eyes that seemed reminiscent of the look he gave the drunk eye back at the club.  “Yeah . . . I mean, he’s great.  He’s a nice guy.  He really cares about you.  You guys are lucky to have one another,” she murmured.

He looked up at her then and shrugged.  “We’ve been friends since childhood.  He’s been good to me.  His family has been good to my family,” he said vaguely.

She didn’t really know how to respond to that.  He seemed so distant.  She contemplated heading back down to Drake and the fire and telling him that he was completely wrong and everything she felt was spot on – he wanted nothing to do with her, and there was no point in trying to force a conversation that just wasn’t going to happen.  The awkwardness was killing her.  She took a few steps back, ready to head back down, when he suddenly stood up and faced her.

“I apologize for my actions back at that nightclub,” he said quietly.

Riley met his gaze in surprise.  

“I’m not normally so . . . aggressive,” he cleared his throat awkwardly.  “It bothers me that I lost control like that.  I don’t want you to think I have any sort of violent tendencies or anger management issues,” he explained.  “Because I don’t.”

“It’s okay, Liam.  I’ll admit . . . it freaked me out at first, but you don’t have to explain anything to me.  I appreciate what you did back there.  It was clear that no one else in that club was going to do anything,” she shrugged.

“I know.  I kept hoping that security would get involved, but when no one came, I just knew that I needed to do something.  When I first saw what was happening, I was almost certain that he’d lay off after you politely told him that you weren’t interested.  I was obviously mistaken,” he said.  “Had I known what a terrible human being he was, I would have intervened much sooner,” he said with a bit of regret.

“You knew I was there?” She asked in surprise.

“From the moment you walked into the club,” he murmured quietly.  “Unlike my travel companions, I’m not all that into drinking or dancing.  I found myself a seat in a booth they had reserved for us, and told myself that I’d have one last drink for the evening and just spend my time at the table,” he explained.  “My friends didn’t seem to mind, as they all went off on their own.  So I just sat there thinking about the night’s events . . . running into you again in particular,” he smirked.  “Then I happened to look up from my drink, and lo and behold, there you were walking into the club.”

“Wow,” she murmured.  “Why didn’t you say something?  I mean . . . nevermind, stupid question,” she waved it off.

“Well, I thought about it.  I thought it was a pretty interesting coincidence you showing up at the club we were planning to go to.  Then I saw Drake talking to you at the bar, and figured he must have had something to do with you being there.  I thought about going up to you, but . . . well, considering what happened earlier tonight,” he cleared his throat eyeing her hesitantly “I didn’t know quite what to expect had I indeed approached you.  I suspect that instead of water I may have had a fruity cocktail thrown at me instead,” he mused.

Riley blushed with embarrassment.  “Touché,” she sighed.  “Hindsight has shown me that maybe you didn’t deserve that.  I mean . . . at the time you completely and utterly deserved it,” she said firmly.  “But after everything that you’ve down for me tonight, I realize now that I was out of line.  So, I’m sorry, too.  I shouldn’t have thrown that pitcher of water all over you,” she sighed.  “I was just taken by surprise.  I never thought I’d see you again,” she explained.

“Well, for what it’s worth, I did deserve it,” he sighed, looking at her longingly.

She returned the look, her heart fluttering all the while.  The words that she had been holding onto all night . . . for eight years . . . danced on the tip of her tongue.  “Liam . . . why did you leave?  That night?” She paused, unsure of whether or not she should continue.  “I mean, I know I should just let this go.  Forget about things, move on . . . but I just . . .I always wondered if it was something that I did . . . or said . . . I thought . . . well I don’t know what I thought,” she admitted sadly.  “I just, I don’t understand what happened.”  

“There’s no easy answer,” he said sadly.  “It’s complicated.”

She snorted.  “Funny,” she shook her head.  “Your friend Drake seems to think that using that phrase is a cop out,” she chuckled.  “I’m inclined to agree,” she looked at him pointedly.

“I tried to be honest with you from the beginning, Riley . . .” he trailed off.  “I didn’t want you to get hurt.  Of course, now I know that it was unavoidable.  No matter what happened, once we started something between us, there was no way that you wouldn’t have ended up hurt,” he sighed miserably.

“I know . . . and maybe I was foolish to hope that it would all work out in the end.  Was that why you left?  I got too clingy?” She asked, she hated how weak and needy she sounded, but she needed to understand what drove him away.

“My family needed me,” he said simply.

She frowned.  That’s it?  That was all the explanation he was going to give her?  “That’s vague,” she said a bit disappointed.

“It’s all I can tell you,” he said quietly.  

“But why no note?  Or a phone call?  The email address you gave me . . .the phone number . . . all of it was out of service the very next day.”

“It was safer that way,” he sighed.  “No ties, no connections.  I thought it would be easier for you.”

She scoffed, her blood pressure rising.  “Easier? ��Nothing was easy about you leaving me Liam.  You were the only person that I grew close to in that whole program.  I had four weeks left and suddenly found myself all alone.  I couldn’t move on, Liam,” she said with some anger in her tone.  “You may have had the opportunity to go back to your life and pretended that nothing happened between us, but I didn’t have that luxury,” she fumed.

“What do you mean?”  He asked

“Forget it,” she sighed.  “It doesn’t matter . . . maybe it never did,” she trailed off.  “I guess I should be happy that I got an answer at all,” she said pointedly.

“An answer?”

“I’ve spent years agonizing about why you left me.  At least I know it had something to do with your family and not with us . . . I mean it broke my heart . . . I understood what you said back then, and I accepted it . . . but my heart didn’t listen,” she sighed.  “I guess I can live with that explanation,” she sighed.

“I’m sorry,” he said quietly.  “For back then . . . for tonight . . . for a lot of things,” he ran a hand across his face.  

“My fault,” she said softly.  “I reopened old wounds that had healed over.  I never should have stirred things up again,” she sighed.  “I thought you’d like it up here . . .but that’s the problem with someplace so peaceful.  It gives you far too much time to think about a million different things.  I should have taken you guys to eat froyo or something,” she sighed.

“No, I’m sorry.  I’m being an ungrateful guest.  This is perfect,” he said quickly. “Truly it is,” he ran a hand through his hair.  He looked like he was fighting an internal battle.  She wished she could read his emotions better.  She just didn’t know what was running through his head.  “I’ve had a lot on my mind lately, and I suppose I haven’t been doing a very good job of dealing with it,” he explained.  “I return home tomorrow, and, well, my life as I know it will be forever changed,” he said a bit sadly.

“Right,” she nodded in understanding.  “You’re getting married,” she said as a matter of fact.  

“Yes, amongst other things,” he admitted.  

The awkward silence between them returned.

“Soooooo,” she trailed off, her eyes wandering over to the guys who were sitting around the fire talking and fiddling with the sand.  She was surprised to see that Tariq had taken off his shoes, placed his jacet on the sand and was now sitting by the fire.  Perhaps there was hope for him after all.  

“Did you ever get to see the Statue of Liberty?” She asked.

He looked up at her, coming out of his daze.  “What?”

She knew very well that the sudden change of subject had thrown him off, but that was the point.  She wanted to get her mind off his explanation for leaving, and she wanted to get his mind off of whatever was bothering him.  She didn’t to dwell on two things that was obviously far beyond their control.

“The Statute of Liberty,” she repeated.  “Did you have a chance to see it?  Back when we were in Germany . . . you said that it was the landmark you wanted to see most.  I figured with you being here in New York and all . . .it would have been the first thing you did,” she reasoned.

“You remember that?” He asked, a bit surprised.

“Well, yeah . . . of course I remember,” she shrugged.  “You talked about it a lot . . . you even talked about looking me up in New York if you ever found yourself here, remember?” she added.

“I do . . .” He nodded.  “I just didn’t think you would after all this time,” he murmured quietly.

She shrugged.  What could she say?  She remembered everything about him.  Even thought she didn’t want to.  She had tried desperately to put him out of her mind, but he just wouldn’t budge.  He was a permanent resident inside of her memories, and it wasn’t just something she could wash away or pretend never existed – no matter how much she had desperately wanted to.  

“You didn’t answer the question,” she said softly.  “Did you get to visit Lady Liberty?”

His face fell a little.  “I’m afraid there wasn’t much time.”

“But isn’t that what you always wanted to see?” She looked at him, a bit confused.  “Liam . . . how is it that you come to New York for the first time and you don’t get to see the Statue of Liberty?” she looked at him a bit incredulously.

“The guys had other plans, and they had gone through such trouble to coordinate the whole trip, I’d hate to impose.”

“Isn’t this your bachelor party though?  Shouldn’t you be doing what you want?”

“I’m very grateful that I was even able to break away for this trip at all,” he explained.  “It’s fine.  I’m sure I’ll have some other chance sometime in the future.”

“Bull shit,” Riley said.

“What?” He looked up at her.

“Drake just mentioned that you don’t know when you guys would have the chance.  Liam, you’re in New York now.  Make it happen.”

“I leave tomorrow, Riley.  There’s just no time between now and then to make that happen,” he murmured.

“I have an idea,” she said suddenly, her eyes lighting up.  “It might sound a little crazy, but I’m just going to ask you to roll with it,” she murmured.  “Do you trust me?”

He looked at her hesitantly.

“Okay, bad question, I know, especially after everything that’s happened tonight . . . “ she sighed.  “Look, I know it’s been a while, and it might sound absolutely ridiculous, but what if I told you that I could get you a quick swing by at the Statue of Liberty?”

He eyed her curiously.  “Tonight?  It’s well after midnight,” he said in disbelief.

“Lucky thing I know a guy . . . well a couple of guys,” she grinned.  “That is if you want to go with me,” she trailed off.  “I mean, no pressure or anything,” she tried to feign indifference.  She was just offering to get him there because of what happened at the club.  He saved her, and this was her way of paying him back.  Nothing more.  

Liam shot her an excited smile, which quickly faltered when he looked over at his friends who were engaging in horseplay at the shoreline.  “It’s just that my friends have gone through a lot of trouble to put this evening together for me, and I couldn’t possibly leave them . . . especially in an unfamiliar city,” he reasoned.

Riley’s gaze shifted to where Liam’s gaze was.  Maxwell was trying to splash Tariq, who was having none of it and rambling on and on about his very expensive, tailored suit.  Drake was sipping from a small flask  still sitting by the fire, watching on in quiet amusement as Maxwell and Tariq continued to banter.  She turned back to Liam, a small smile on her lips.   “I don’t think they’ll miss you,” she laughed.  “They seem quite all right on their own.”

“You’re serious, aren’t you?”  He asked looking at her intently.

“Yup,” she nodded.

“Won’t we get in trouble?” he tried to reason with her.

“And what if we do?” she shrugged.  “Why don’t you live a little?” she laughed.  She couldn’t help but say the same words he had said to her back when they had a three-day weekend back in Germany.  She could remember the moment clearly.  

“Live a little,” Liam chuckled.

“Liam, I haven’t left campus since I started school here,” she murmured.  “I don’t think I feel comfortable using the train system yet,” she explained.

“You’ll be with me . . . and you’ll love Cologne.  There’s a beautiful Cathedral with the most stunning stain-glassed windows.”

“I don’t know . . .” she whispered.

“We’ll make a weekend of it,” he reasoned.  “We can find a hostel to stay at or a cheap hotel . . . It’ll be much better than staying cooped up in your dorm room all day scanning through the chapters I know you’ve already read.”

She blushed a little.  He was right. She’d been skipping ahead of the required reading material and she found herself far more ahead of the syllabus than she had expected.  

“Then you win,” she sighed.  “Let me just put a few things into an overnight bag,” she smiled, now unable to hide her excitement.

“Then you win,” he smiled, shooting the same words back at her.  

For a moment, she saw a glimpse of his former self shining through.  And as she looked into his eyes, she found herself falling for Liam Rys all over again.

#choices #choices: stories you play #choices fanfiction #trr #trr fanfic #choices trr #trr fic #the royal romance #choices the royal romance #theroyalromance #the royal romance fan fic #Royal Romance #liam x riley #liam x mc #secondchances #longpost #really long post

[cactusspatz]

December recs

YULETIDE

every sacrifice a gift by TLvop (Midnight Special, gen)

Every mother thinks her child is special. Sarah knows that.

My Yuletide present!!! This is an absolutely gorgeous character study of Sarah set before the movie, dealing with Alton’s early years and the events that guide her to leave the ranch. I loved the writing so much I read it twice in a row, which is extremely rare for me.

The Way Forward by woodironbone (Edge of Tomorrow, genish)

The party has persisted for three hours, and Rita has been drinking for all of them. Cage catches her staring, and even though they're both pretty well inebriated by now they figure it's as good a time as any to sort things out.

I don’t know about you, but my life wasn’t complete until I read this story about Rita getting drunk, picking locks and talking to Cage post-movie. This was a present for @inmyriadbits that did a freakishly good job of writing to her favorite things (banter, competence, shenanigans, partnership, etc), which are happily also most of my favorite things.

The Reward of Service by @pamphilia (Temeraire, Laurence/Tharkay)

‘It is no good asking me,’ Laurence said at last, pushing the pattern-book away over breakfast, ‘I am not the one–’ Not the one who would be living with the result, he had been about to say. But they had hardly accepted Tharkay’s invitation as casual houseguests.

Right in the feels, and a lovely post-canon fic.

The Huntsman’s Reel by @philomytha (Vorkosigan Saga, Alys/Simon)

"Somewhere in this party," said Captain Illyan, "there are four Cetagandan assassins."

Sheer, delightful competence porn, written with a sharp thriller edge. You really can’t fault Simon’s epic hearteyes at the end of this.

The rest of my pre-reveal recs can be found here on Pinboard, as usual.

LES MISERABLES

As is my habit, I procrastinated on Yuletide by binge-reading in a completely unrelated fandom! Geez, why did no one tell me about the amazing levels of pining? GRANTAIRE.

World Ain’t Ready by @idiopathicsmile (Enjolras/Grantaire)

Enjolras presses his lips together. He already looks pained, and Grantaire hasn't even opened his mouth yet. That's got to be a record, even for them.

"I need a favor," he says at last.

"With what?" says Grantaire. "Ooh, are you forming a cult? Can I join? I'd be awesome at cults, I just know it." He ticks off his qualifications on his fingers. "I love chanting, I look great in robes—"

I am prepared to call this not only the best fake dating story I’ve ever read, but possibly the best high school AU as well. First off: fake dating for great justice! It’s entirely in-character! The writing is hysterically funny and clever, without any sort of nostalgia white-washing of high school, Grantaire will break your heart in the best way, and EPONINE, omg. A+, highly recommended, set aside a day to read because it’s almost 200K.

study in scarlet by arriviste (Enjolras/Grantaire)

It’s hardly Enjolras’s first time, but this police spy is the most inept tail he’s ever picked up.

In general, arriviste is unfairly good at nailing Grantaire’s twisty, layered dialogue, especially canon-era, and I encourage you to read everything they’ve written, but this fic was particularly egregious. And hot, in an unhappy sort of way.

A Place To Lie Down by ellen_fremedon (Enjolras/everyone, Enjolras/Grantaire)

"A purgation," Enjolras said. "You make it sound so respectably medical."

Canon-era sex pollen fic! I saw someone describe this as the most caring gangbang ever, which is accurate, but topped off with some excruciating pining on Grantaire’s part which was so beautifully written that I didn’t even mind that it was unrequited, for once.

You Dance Dreams by @theladyragnell (Enjolras/Grantaire)

For most of college, Grantaire was hopeless over Enjolras, and everyone but Enjolras knew it. Now he’s worked to get over his crush, and for the most part, he's fine. When Combeferre asks him to choreograph and dance in the Midsummer Night’s Dream-inspired opera he composed as his senior thesis, Grantaire says yes, even though he’s cast opposite Enjolras, as Puck to his Oberon. The chance to dance is worth the potential problems, and he'll have his friends as a buffer. He doesn't count on long hours of practicing and choreographing and talking together, while they try to figure each other and their futures out. As much as he tries to avoid it, it seems inevitable that he falls for Enjolras again, and this time it isn't a crush.

Oh my god, who do I have to kidnap to get to watch this opera for real?!? *wistful sigh*

STAR WARS

On One Wounded Wing by @thistlerosie (Poe/Finn)

Poe Dameron convinces himself that Kylo Ren died when Starkiller Base exploded. Because it's plausible. Because he needs to believe it, in order to get on with his life.

There is no way that this plan could ever backfire.

Hands down my favorite portrayal of Poe coping (or rather, failing to cope) with his captivity and torture, and I adore his relationship with Finn.

Steady as she goes by noelia_g (Jyn/Cassian, Wedge Antilles/Bodhi)

In which they all live and Jyn Erso is on a quest to fix a droid.

My favorite Rogue One fix-it! The later stories pull in some details and characters from the old Rogue Squadron EU books, for those of you who are fellow fans, but it’s all completely accessible even if you aren’t.

#monthly recs #yuletide #midnight special #edge of tomorrow #vorkosigan #temeraire #les mis #star wars #fic rec #belated as usual but not too late