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sukunastoy · 1 year

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Dumb Puppy (Part 2)

Posted a bit later than I wanted to but finally got this absolute filth tossed into the pile. Enjoy!

wc: 2.3k+

cw: fucking both the father and son(everyone is legal age) name calling/insults (mutt, bitch, puppy etc), choking, cream pie, unprotected sex, master-pet dynamic, age difference.

Over the next few weeks, your needy moments with Toji only worsened. The more you indulged in this sick fantasy, the more obsessed with him you became. He entertained all of your needs, feeding into your twisted desires.

Teaching Megumis class was both stressful and embarrassing. The boy never said anything, and you weren't sure if he knew what you were actually doing with his crappy father or not. If he was aware, he never mentioned it, much to your relief.

Of course for some days, to avoid suspicion, you'd leave immediately after school was over, getting to the Fushiguro residence before Megumi would get home. Offering him a ride home every day was getting too awkward. If he walked, it would take him almost 20 minutes to get there. That was more than enough time to park far enough down the street to hide your car and sneak back to the house, getting into Tojis bedroom with the door shut before the son came home. Sure you'd be moaning like a wanton whore, but at least he never saw your face to actually confirm it was you fucking his dad so much lately.

Again Toji was choking you out while he was fucking you harshly, and the lack of air to your head made you cum so embarrassingly hard.

"F-fuck! Loosen up, bitch, you're forcing me out." He grumbled as your walls were clenching him so tightly it was almost difficult for him to keep thrusting.

Your whole body shook with the intensity of your climax, making you nearly pass out as the male above you continued to fuck your spasming cunt.

He grunted while chasing his own release, sweat dripping down onto you from him as his squeezing became more of a strangulation.

You began to slip into darkness before a dizzying sensation filled your head, his hands moving from your throat to let air back into your lungs. Coughing immediately as you choked to breathe, Tojis hips sputtered as your walls clamped around him with each harsh cough. He fucked a load into you while panting before finally sitting up onto his haunches and rubbing his hair back from his face.

"Jeez...can't fuck your pathetic pussy if you shove me out, dumbass."

Ugh, what an asshole. The sexiest asshole you’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing.

Opening up the bedroom door to leave, Toji smacked your ass and you yelped loudly.

“Is my dumb puppy coming back again tomorrow to get her needy little cunt fucked?” He teased while walking out.

Before you could even reply, the color drained from your face as not one, but two Fushiguro’s now stood in the living room.

Megumi gave you a brief glance, a complete lack of interest in his face but it was still horrifying.

“Hey, how come you haven’t hit that yet?” Toji chuckled to his son, gesturing towards you while he went into the kitchen.

“She’s got a tight little cunt, you’d love it.”

Well, it finally reached that point. You had to move and change your whole identity. Because this level of embarrassment was unreal.

Megumi was never out and about in the home when you left. You could sometimes hear him come in while Toji was having his way with you, but then shortly after that you’d hear the door to his room open and close. He was always in there and you always slipped out of Tojis room unnoticed!

Megumi sighed and rolled his eyes to his fathers words. “Yeah…right. Look, I just have a question. Class related.” He said while looking back to you, not phased in the least.

“C-class?” You stammered, hardly able to calm your heartbeat.

What a weird fucking moment.

Sitting down with Megumi on the couch, the one Toji fucked you over several weeks ago, he was asking about one of the homework papers you assigned earlier today in class.

By this point, you had no idea where Toji had gone, and it felt even more awkward to be sitting here alone with your student. Especially since Toji literally talked about your still sopping pussy to him.

Despite you struggling to speak half the time, Megumi seemed to not give a single care about what you were obviously doing not too long ago.

“Um, Megumi, I’m sorry, for making this weird…”

“You’re not the only one who has been here before, he does this all the time. I’m used to it.”

That definitely didn’t make you feel any fucking better. But come on, was that really such a surprise? Toji was an absolute crappy person, of course he’d be fucking several others.

Wondering how Megumi turned out to be so polite still made your head spin.

After helping him with the assignment, you rushed out of the Fushiguro residence, planning on what country you’d move to so you’d never have to face this embarrassment again.

Obviously, you had to go back to your job the next morning. And the next day. And the next…

Though, you hadn’t gone over to get dicked down in almost two weeks now. It was hard enough to stand in the front of Megumi’s class, knowing he’s heard you howling like a wild animal.

But, you’d be lying if you pretended that you were better off without seeing Toji.

None of your personal toys at home could even come close to give you that sickening high you only achieved by riding his dick.

Laying in bed after whimpering through a pathetic and unsatisfying orgasm, you groaned in despair. Being embarrassed was swiftly getting replaced with a level of horminess that was driving you mad.

Megumi was clearly not knew to his fathers antics, and he definitely already knew you were over there so often. Cat was out of the bag long before you knew it even was!

So why fight it?

Fuck it. You needed him again. Needed him bad. Not seeing him was driving you insane. You just wanted him to fuck you stupid and let you drift away in a moment of perverted bliss.

Knocking on Tojis door the next day after rushing over from school, you impatiently awaited him to answer. When that locked turned and the door swung open, you nearly dropped your purse in awe. He was shirtless, and his hair was a mess. Your eyes shamelessly traveled down his body, drinking in those abs and whining at the sight of his v line disappearing into his pants.

“F-fuck…” you gulped under your breath.

“My my…I was wondering when your pathetic cunt would bring you back here.”

Extending out a thick and toned arm, Tojis hand gripped behind your neck, and his thumb rubbed across your ear while pulling you inside.

As your head hung off the side of Tojis bed, you couldn��t help but smile in satisfaction. Feeling those calloused hands holding your waist while he fucked you relentlessly was driving you fucking wild. His grunts and growls with every thrust put you on cloud nine.

“Missed me, didn’t you, dirty bitch?”

“Y-yes, fuck…fuck yes!” Of course you did. You were obsessed with him! You wanted to be his, his own personal plaything.

“Look at that fucking smile…You like being a whore.”

You didn’t care anymore. So long as those hands were around your throat or waist, you were in a state of bliss beyond compare. Since a couple weeks had passed, your poor pussy actually had time to rest, but now it was getting stretched back out and that delicious pain swirled in your core.

He was so rough and brutal with every thrust, but you fucking loved it.

“You wanna cum? Cum all over my fat cock in your greedy pussy?” He teased while adjusting his hips to hammer into that spongy flesh that would send you over the edge in seconds.

His abs brushed across your aching clit just perfectly and you swung your legs up and over his waist, opening yourself up further.

Feeling his cockhead sink further towards your cervix, you screamed in euphoria, unable to handle how good he could fuck you.

“That’s it, that’s a good little dumb mutt!” He crudely laughed, fucking you so hard you were sliding off the bed.

“F-fuck, fuck me! Fuck me!!” You sobbed as your walls clenched around his unforgiving pace.

Hearing the front door open, you did your best to ignore it. Megumi would know it was you, but he’d pay no attention to it. So there wasn’t a reason to deny yourself of this amazing orgasm washing over you, making your body shake from the severity of it.

That was, until you suddenly realized through your daze, that Toji had left the bedroom door open.

And as your head was hanging off the bed, you locked eyes with Megumi who stood in the living room with his bag strap now slipping down his shoulder.

Your face was contorted in sickening pleasure, but you couldn’t tear your gaze away to break the stare.

“S-shit, T-Toji, the door!” You whined, face flushed in a heavy blush knowing Megumi just watched you cum from his dad.

“Dumb puppy…I wanted him to see.” He snickered while leaning up and grabbing onto your tits almost painfully. He kneaded them in his hands while continuing to roll his hips into yours.

“Come on, get in here and help me fuck this needy mutt.”

“What!?” Your head snapped up at Tojis words, but one of those large hands covered your face, shoving your head back down in a rough motion.

“Don’t act like you aren’t interested boy, caught you jerking off to the video of her on my phone.”

Your eyes were wide in pure humiliation at this point, and you couldn’t even think of a single thing to say. Surely, surely Megumi would deny. He wasn’t going to fuck his teacher along side his dad, right??

Oh god…the horrible thoughts filled your mind in an instant. And not in the way you imagined…

Toji was an absolute beast in the bed, if his son was the same…

You felt your pussy clench at the thought of being taken by both of them, and Toji smirked down to you, knowing where your mind was going.

“Fucking whore, getting more soaked at the idea of it. Look boy, she’s getting wet for you. Don’t act like you don’t want to fuck her.”

Megumi remained staring at you for only a brief moment before he huffed and ducked his head down, rubbing the back of it.

“Fine.”

It was obscene. It was beyond inappropriate.

Felt even more intense than any porn you've seen.

But you couldn't get enough.

These two gorgeous men were licking your cunt, nearly fighting each other over it. You kept your leg held up as you lay on your side, panting and staring at them in a daze.

Toji was fucking your still twitching hole with his tongue, and Megumi was sucking on your swollen clit, occasionally nipping to make you squeal.

"Get up there, and fuck this whore.” Toji growled to his son, shoving him more over you.

You'd be lying if you said you didn't want this.

Megumi was flushed in the face and he wouldn't look at you while he climbed over your anxious body, but your arms welcomed him greatly in an embrace.

You were surprised how quickly his cock slipped into your aching cunt, but even more in shock at his size. A big, fat and veiny cock, just like his father.

Your arms and head fell back on the bed, breathless as your student fucked you like you weren't worth anything.

It didn't take Toji long to hop on the bed and kneel on either side of your head. He gripped his cock and bounced the end of it onto your face, making your mouth open.

"That's my perfect, dumb puppy...getting fucked in your mouth and cunt at the same time. Fucking hell, you're a filthy whore."

He groaned while shoving his dick down your throat. Your eyes widened as far as they could, a new level of ecstasy and arousal washing over you. Megumi leaned over you while he hammered into you, letting your pussy swallow him whole each time. Toji bucked his hips to fuck your face, and even though you gagged and whimpered, he only sank further into your warm and wet throat.

"F-fuck, I'm gonna fucking cum..." Megumi growled to himself, falling apart at how tightly your gummy walls sucked him in.

"Hold that shit in. This is a dirty bitch, she wants so much more."

God, you couldn't agree more.

"Goddamn...you need to see this." Toji panted while pulling himself from your throat. You coughed and gasped for air as he lifted your head but immediately your body went limp to the sight.

He made you watch as Megumis cock disappeared into your pussy, and how when he pulled back, you were gripped around him so tightly.

"Told you, her fucking pussy has an amazing grip."

"T-Toji, I wanna, wanna cum!" You begged with tears in your eyes, unable to handle the sight of Megumis dick fucking your sloppy cunt.

"So cum! Cum on my sons dick, you disgusting bitch."

When Tojis hands slipped around your throat, your body tensed instantly and he let out a rude laugh as you squirted all over Megumis abs.

“Fuuuck~!” Megumis hips faltered as your walls clamped down around him, and you sobbed through moans when he slammed his hips down into yours, burying himself balls deep in your cunt before unloading into you.

Drool spilled from the side of your partially opened mouth, lost in a complete daze as you could see Megumis cock twitch and throb while your pussy milked him dry.

He chanced looking up to you, but once your doe eyes locked with his, he immediately looked away, gritting his teeth and grumbling.

“You’ve been wanting to fuck her for a while now, don’t pretend otherwise. Now move, time for my turn.” Toji grinned down to you while stroking your cheeks with his thumbs.

“My dumb puppy needs her little pussy completely ruined.”

#toji jjk #megumi jjk #toji x reader #megumi x reader #fushiguro jjk #Toji smut #megumi smut #Toji x you x megumi

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gadriezmannsgirl · 1 year

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Own The Pitch -P.G

Dear anon, I had a little trouble whilst writing, I had the "Publish" thing on and not the "Save draft" thing. So when I went to look for a Pablo pic, I pressed the button to "save" my work and it published 😭☠️ I had to delete it!🥴😭 I hope you see this and tell me what you think of the fic😊 I couldn't help but associate this request with Gender Reveal's world.

ALSO KNOWN AS GENDER REVEAL (5)!

Summary: It's time for Helena to own the pitch

You smiled watching your fourth year old daughter, Helena, run around the whole pitch with her father behind her as she tried to "escape" his ticklish hands, her laughter echoing the Camp Nou stadium as the guys celebrated another El Clásico win 5-1.

"Helena María, watch out, hija" You said watching how she stumbled a little not really paying attention to it but keeping on playing with her dad.

"She's crazy for Pablo"

"And she's also crazy for her uncle Pepi" Pedro laughed nodding

"How's baby?" You smile remembering the get together of three weeks ago

"Great! It's really good, other than a few morning sickness, constant cravings and several mood swings, we're incredible" You smiled discretly putting your hand on top of your non-visible stomach

Baby two was 15 weeks old, your tummy wasn't visible, barely starting to appear and it could be appreciated when you were on bra and panties, something that only Pablo got to see being honest and not always in a sexy way.

"What do you think it'll be?"

"A little angry bird has told me that he, along with all of the team, wants it to be a boy" He laughs "And I would like to be a boy too" You smile taking your hand off your stomach "But I won't mind either if it's a girl"

"As long as it's healthy" You nod smiling

"That's the most important thing"

"Mami, I can kick just like papi!" Helena said coming over to you both, high fiving Pedri and kissing his cheek, before grabbing your hand "Wanna see it?"

You wink to Pedri as he smiled ruffling your hair lightly, and you picked Helena up making your way towards where Pablo was playing with the ball

"Next female football player I heard?" He stopped playing looking at you both with a smile on his face

"Amor, you shouldn't-"

"Let me enjoy it while I can" You cut him off talking about lifting Helena up, he raised his hands lightly

"Papá, vamos a enseñarle a mamá mi tiro" She got out of your hold taking the ball from his dad's feet

"Ready, ladybug?" She nods and kicks the ball a little to hard because it goes straight to Pablo's face but he dodged it easily "Maybe try to not hit it that much, Lena" You laughed at his face

She did several times that shot until Ter Stegen came with a smile

"Nice shot, Lena. Think you can do a goal with me in front?" She looks at her dad

"Can I?" Pablo nods smiling

"It's the same like you play with me at home, ladybug. You think you can score against Ter Stegen?" She looks at you

"It's what you and daddy do all the time, bonita" You say smiling at her and then she nodded

"I think I can" She mumbles playing with her fingers while looking at Ter Stegen

"You think?" She furrowed her eyebrows not sensing the playfulness in Marc's words

"I know I can"

"Then let's do this" He clapped his gloved hands and winked at you both.

"Mami, can you tie my hair, please?" She asked after pushing it back several times only for it to end up on her face again. Pablo and you raised your eyebrows at each other surprised.

"She's tying her hair" You said laughing

"She got that from you" He said as you blushed, whenever you got competitive you pulled your hair up in a bun or ponytail.

"THE MISSY IS TYING HER HAIR UP!" One of the guys yelled "THIS IS GETTING SERIOUS!" You looked over and saw Alejandro Balde, being the owner of the attraction of the lads. Pablo joined and started talking to Helena on how to do shoot the ball into the net besides teaching her how to several times.

He spoke it the little girl's ear acting as if they were playing a real match, with the tapping their mouths with their hands and everything.

The guys were forming a circle and they were still a few of the fans recording the moment.

"Whenever you're ready, ladybug" Pablo said stepping backwards to be next to you, hugging you by the waist as you wrapped yourself against him watching your daughter prepare to shot.

She looked behind you and you both did thumbs up, she smiled and ran to kick the ball.

You knew that little girl had power in her legs whenever she kicked while being inside of you.

The ball flew flying hard at first but then it lost force, meaning Ter Stegen could easily stop her ball. But he didn't.

Instead, he throw himself a bit later, acting as he didn't know where it could go and preparing himself for it, to the floor letting the ball pass underneath his body by centimeters. The ball hit the back of the net and instantly roars were heard in the whole stadium. You and Pablo ran towards your babygirl, congratulating her as the guys cheered and hugged you three

"Helena owns the pitch!" Ansu had yell being followed by Robert, Pedri, Alejandro, Eric, Ferran, Torre, Raphinha and soon everyone was chanting it

"Looks like we've got a potential football player in our lives" Pablo said as you smiled nodding watching Helena in Ter Stegen's shoulders

"I never doubted her kicking skills" Pablo laughed knowing what you meant

"Hopefully this one isn't that hard on you"

"Are you kidding? I've got the feeling if it's a boy it'll be worse than ever" Pablo laughs hard once more shaking his head you felt him kiss your cheek

"I can't wait for Baby to be here with us" Pablo murmured as you hummed leaning into him "I can't wait for this to happen over and over again"

Your eyes locked with Helena's, her happy smile instantly making you smile and heart swell in happiness. You loved your family.

°°° °°° °°° °°°

Taglist: @gaviypedrisbride @stuckinaf4nfiction @elijahslover @azzpenswrld

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riaisnotok · 2 months

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☆ FENOMEN // s.f

A/N: I had this on my mind for a long time, and I wanted to share this because why not 🥹

Summary: You sit beside Sal in Mrs. Packerton's class, you got bored and write on a piece of paper and tossed it to Sal.

The bell rang, you went to class and took your seat, you were sitting next to a boy with blue hair in two ponytails. He was wearing a mask, you never asked him why because you never talked to him before. School has only started 3 weeks ago.

Mrs. Packerton entered the classroom and started teaching today's lesson, you were bored. You had nothing to do so you tore a page out of your notebook while Mrs. Packerton was writing on the whiteboard. You started writing on it. 'I see you're bored too, aren't you? ' You wrapped the paper and waited for Mrs. Packerton to write on the whiteboard again so you could toss it to Sal.

When she turned around, you reached out a little towards him and threw the sheet on his desk. Sal noticed and looked at you, then unwrapped the sheet and read what was written on it. You saw how he started to write something on it too.

He threw it back at you. ' yes.. I don't really like today's lesson. By the way I'm Sal but you can call me Sally Face or Sally ' You smiled and started writing. ' ok Sally, I'm Y/N '

Mrs. Packerton looked at you "Miss L/N, bring me the sheet here" She said. Someone in the class told her, and you didn't hear. You got up from your seat and handed her the sheet. She read what was written on it, and called Sal as well. You and Sal tried to deny it with the fucking evidence in front of you. 😭

Mrs. Packerton sent you back to your seats. When class was over, you quickly walked out of the classroom to your locker. And of course Sal couldn't have not come to you. You closed your locker and started talking to Sal. "You didn't tell me your name..." He said, school only started 3 weeks ago, and still none of you managed to remember the names of your classmates. "Y/N..I wrote it on the paper but you know what happened next.." Sal chuckled. "I saw that you usually stay alone, I wanted to ask you several times if you wanted to stay with me and my friends, but I didn't want to disturb you."

You smiled when you heard that. You didn't think Sal wanted to be your friend. "If you want...you know.."

"Of course I want!" You said happily. Sal smiled under his mask. "Stay here, I'm going to find Larry!" Sal said then he went to look for Larry. You waited for him to come back, there were a few minutes left until the second period was starting and Sal wasn't coming back. You thought it was just a prank and that it's true that no one wants to be your friend. So you took your books for the next class and left for class. On the way you met Sal and you assume the one with the long black hair was Larry?

Sal noticed you "Y/N! Sorry Larry was hard to find!" You started walking towards them. "I thought it was a prank.." You said sadly. "You thought wrong then." Said Sal "He's Larry." “Hi Larry, I'm Y/N” “Hey, Y/N” Larry waved at you.

After school, Sal and Larry took you to Larry's tree house, and there you met two more members of their group, Ashley and Todd.

And after some months all 5 of you became friends, and let's not forget Chug and Maple.

☁️ — ☆

#sally face #sal fisher #sally fisher #sally face x reader #sal fisher x reader #larry johnson #ashley campbell #todd morrison

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copias-juicebox · 9 months

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It's a Sin Chapter 2

Part 1 | Part 3 Part 4

Pairing: Cardinal Copia x fem! Reader Words: 5144 Genre: romance, angst, smut, fluff, hurt/comfort, SLOWBURN Warnings: explicit languge, violence, abuse, age gap, smut (in the upcoming chapters blabla)

Notes: so i finally got to write down the next part. I am sorry it took so long. Been procrastinating for ages. I was very insecure to write this but i actually found a very sweet soul here to help me. This is why i have decided to dedicate this chapter to the lovely @fishwithtitz. Literally an angel (or demon idk) sent from up or down. However she helped me soooo much writing this and without her you would not be reading this now. So huge kudos and all the love and appreciation for this amazing woman. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 (you should check out her works she is such a wonderful writer.)

18 years. It had been 18 long years since the night you ran away. The last time you were in your hometown was nearly two decades ago. And now, you are back.

It was so long ago, you barely even remembered the night at all. In your mind, there was just that awful night that resulted in your parents sending you away to learn the discipline they tried to beat into you, mentally and sometimes even physically. The dreadful day you wanted to forget so badly. Remembering that day and the following consequences had a shiver run down your spine. It left you with many scars mentally and you avoided thinking about it.

The school your parents chose for you was a few hours away from your home. It turned out to be an all girls school, run by catholic nuns that would enforce their teaching in only one way. “The way of God“ they always said.

You and all the other young girls had to learn what the nuns taught. The school followed the curriculum like any other school. Mathematics, language arts, science (even if many scientific facts were altered to fit the catholic beliefs), social studies and fine arts. Of course they taught everything from a catholic root and some of the subjects were taught in a very traditional way. Special courses in Bible work and Latin were forced on the students every afternoon. Even the fine arts like music and visual art they kept to a stern regulation. Any indication of „unholyness“ in the themes would be followed by extra bible lessons and hours spent in prayer with the Sister on duty. Nonetheless, your parents would not have sent you here if it were not run by catholic women in service of God. Like all the other girls, you had to obey the many arbitrary rules they set up. If you did not, they made sure you and everyone else were punished in quite severe ways. The nuns could be harsh and unforgiving. One time, a group of girls were found outside after curfew and they had to face the stick and had been locked away for a week.

In the beginning, you had a hard time— but you learned fast and they rarely found you breaking the rules in your later years. That did not mean you just rarely broke them, of course. You just had to be clever about it. Luckily, you were intelligent and learned to maneuvre your way the world. As they say “learn to swim, or you will drown.“ It was hard of course. You honestly tried to be a good girl. You told no lies, and that was when it would become very hard for you to stick to the teachings of the church since the nuns would ask you if they were suspicious of your actions. You always told them half truths. Enough to please them but never telling them nearly enough because that would get you hit with a paddle, your dinner forgone for days and hours of disciplinary work with the nuns to make you find your way back to God. The irony behind their words was never lost on you, only making your and everyone longing for freedom from God stronger.

As a girl, living in a world ruled by men and women acting in service of mankind, you had no say in your future. Your career was chosen long before you could even imagine working at some time in your life. So as soon as you settled into your new school, a nun called Sister Angela would ask you to help her in the infirmary. You were supposed to learn everything from a young age to later become a nurse. Sister Angela was an old and very strict sister. But you found she was actually very kind and warm inside. She was the closest thing you got to a mother figure in your new life so far away from your home. She taught you everything you knew. Everything about the school and the church that ruled over it.

She was very understanding when you were in your teenage years and even helped you once in a while when you were close to facing punishment for not doing your assigned chores in time for the 3rd time in a week. Without her, you might have ended up in a way worse condition than you luckily did. Some nights she was your rock in the waves, supporting you when you needed someone.

Luckily, your new occupation became a passion. You had always been happy to help anyone in need. No matter how. As long as you could help, you would nearly do anything to make other people’s lives easier. A people pleaser. That earned you a lot of praise in the later years from the people in town who got to benefit from your goodhearted nature many times over the years. That was the best feeling in the world — to be appreciated for your work filled you with happiness and it made your heart swell with pride.

After you graduated, you chose to pursue volunteer work on the streets. Helping others in need felt like your calling, and your parents were very happy about it. Working there for a few months gave you time to meet new people, and one day, a man came to you. He explained to you that he was working for a non profit organisation, and if you were interested, he could help you find a job. He would just need to know what your conditions were, and he would try to find a place that would be in dire need of a nurse.

You had been very grateful since you were in need of a job soon anyway. The volunteer work filled you with contentment, but you had to pay bills and your savings were wearing thin. You contacted him and told him that you would like to work somewhere for a church. You told him that you were not too picky, as long as you got your own room.

A few days later, he called you back telling you he found one place that was in desperate need of a nurse and under good conditions as well. It was an old church in a secluded area. They were offering to cover your living expenses, housing, food was inclusive, and they would pay you well enough. One extra perk they offered was that you could take courses in literature or arts for those who liked it. You were pleased to see that the church was located in the very same town you called your home, and since it was a church, you knew your parents would be supporting you to work there. „The Emeritus Church“ was what the guy on the phone said. You‘d never heard of that church before, but you figured it was a place of retired church officials and since you knew the older generation was not fond of electronic devices, you did not think too much of it when you did not find their website mentioned on the list of official catholic churches in your hometown.

You happily accepted the offer and tomorrow was the big day — the day you would start your first day as a nurse in the church.

You stood in front of the train station now. You could no longer live with your parents since they had moved away to another town 40 minutes away and a Sister, Sister Hannah from the Church with whom you had been writing, told you there would be a car to escort you to your new workplace. You were never that nervous in your life. Sister Hannah told you it would be a black Mercedes. She would be there waiting with the driver, and after a short period of time, you spotted a black S-Class rolling into your view.

The car came to halt in front of you and the door on the passenger side opened. A beautiful woman got out of the car. She was about your age you assumed. She wore a black habit and a big smile. As she approached you, the first thing that caught your attention were her shining grey-coloured eyes.

„Hello there. I am Sister Hannah. You might just call me Hannah if you like. You must be our new nurse — and a pretty one at that.“ She started with a warm smile, already fully aware you were the newest member in the ministry. When she stood before you, she extended a hand for you to shake. You smiled at her and took her hand giving her your name.

„It is nice to meet you, Sister Hannah. Yes it is me, I guess.“ you responded with your own smile.

„Wonderful. I am so glad you are here now. Let us not wait for too long here and get your stuff inside the car then. I want to show you a lot today.“

You nodded and began to lift your heavy bags off the ground when Hannah stopped you. „Oh no love don‘t do that I can let the Ghoul carry your stuff you need not to worry about it.“ She was already back at the car speaking to the driver.

You stared at her a bit lost. Did she just call the driver a ghoul? Poor guy might not have an angels face but surely there as no reason to call the poor thing a ghoul was it? Before you could think about it any longer a man opened up the door and walked in your direction. You stared at him wide eyed, not moving an inch when you saw he was actually wearing a silver mask that covered his whole head. The mask had little horns on top and underneath he seemed to wear a black balaclava that covered up his whole face so you could not even see his eyes. Just the mouth was free and he stopped right in front of you, tilting his head to the side.

Sister Hannah was next to you in a heartbeat. „So, this is our new nurse, Swiss. You better behave around her, yeah? Don‘t want me to complain about it to Papa again, right?“

The masked man in front of you turned his head sharply to Sister Hannah at that and just as sharply he looked back at you giving you a big teethy smile, motioning for your bags. You had not realized, but you were holding your bags in a death-like grip. The whole situation was so bizarre.

You gave the odd guy whose name was Swiss your bags. „Oh no, they are quite heavy, you should not carry them all at once.“ He took the heavy bags like they weighed nothing and carried them to the trunk of the car. That was impressive. He did not look like a specifically muscular guy, but you decided to brush it off when Hannah spoke up next to you.

„Perfect, so then let us get going, yeah?“ You followed her to the car and slid into the black soft leather seat behind the passenger where Sister Hannah sat down. The car was very expensive you could tell. The interior was very clean and stylish and the upholstery was not too hard and not too soft. It was very comfortable. This church was very well off you thought.

„So, tomorrow is your first official day, so today we have enough time to get you settled in. I am going to show you around the ministry and maybe we can even get a glimpse of Papa before you officially meet him tomorrow,” She exclaimed, giving you a wink.

„Ah yes that sounds wonderful. I‘d love to see the place and get used to it a bit before I have to put all my energy in the job. But uh..“ you hesitated a bit not sure how you were going to ask her.

Hannah felt your hesitation „Before I forget. Please feel free to ask me anything ok. Or if something is bothering you I am always there with open ears ok?“

You contemplated her words. „Okay uh.. you know, I was just wondering, you mentioned Papa?“ you asked with confusion in your voice.

„Oh you know Papa Emeritus the Third, sweetheart! This is actually his ministry. Even though the Cardinal runs the place mostly. But surely you heard about it.“ Hannah added.

„Uh, no, I actually don‘t know any of these people you‘ve mentioned.“ you muttered.

At that she turned around in her seat, facing you with a questioning look in her eyes.

„Oh you don‘t? I am sorry but how..?“ She contemplated for a bit. „Wait, are you..?“ She stopped mid sentence. „I need to ask you this now. You are a sister of Sin right?“

You locked eyes with her and furrowed your brows. Did she just say ‚Sister of Sin‘? The following silence stretched on for what felt like an eternity. None of you spoke, yet none of you looked away. That silence was only broken when Hannah started laughing out hysterically. „Oh Satan this is good. I mean oh I don‘t mean to be rude but this is probably the funniest thing to happen all year.“ You could not help yourself but start laughing along. Whenever there was something utterly ridiculous you could not stay serious. Doesn‘t matter how significant and bad a situation might be if it was just all too crazy you couldn‘t help yourself.

„Oh my God are you actually serious?“ you giggled.

„I mean, yeah. Ugh, this is so funny.“ she still could not contain her laughter. After a moment she calmed down and began again. „Okay sis, so here is the thing. I will get straight to the point: we are the ministry of Papa Emeritus the Third. I am a declared Sister of Sin and we are worshiping Satan.“

Her words left you speechless. You visibly gulped when you heard her speak of a satanic church. The church you were going to work in. It all left a bitter taste on your tongue and you were uncertain of your choices now. Was it all a bad idea to come here? Should you just run for your life? You were lost and remained still.

She gazed at you unsure of your reaction. „I hope you are not too shocked to hear that your new workplace is literally a satanic church, but I can assure you we are not what you have heard about us. There is no cruelty or sacrificing animals or whatever horror stories are rumored out on the streets. And I deeply hope that you are not going to quit now that you know about our beliefs.“ She begged and looked at you with puppy dog eyes. „I mean, we really need you sister. And we are actually very nice people, you know. I know our reputation is bad, but we believe in equality and justice. Our beliefs are truly well intended and I hope you can at least try and see for yourself, right?“

You just stared at her bewildered, still processing what you‘d heard. You were shocked to hear that. All your life you had only ever heard about them. They perform dark rituals asking for selfish powers. Committing sins, doing the devils deeds, and harming others while doing so. Corrupting every innocent soul out there with immoral beliefs.

But you swore to help others, no matter what side they stood on. Your calling was to help others, and so far, Sister Hannah was actually very kind and nice to you. She made it easy to speak to her and she was very open with you, and you appreciated that. Plus, the offer was just too good not to at least give Satan a chance you thought.

You blinked once or twice, completely overwhelmed with the new piece of information you just got. Hannah waved her hand in front of your face. „Girl, are you still with us? You better not suffer from a heart attack. I don‘t know how to deal with that, you are the nurse and Papa will be mad if I kill our new nurse before she starts her official first day.“

Her words brought you back to the car and Hannah was still looking at you expectantly.

„Ah, well, that really is something new to me, but if you promise me that everyone is nice there and there won‘t be any sacrifices, then I will take a look at your ministry and make my own opinion about it, I guess.“ You decided not to tell her that you were raised strictly catholic. It would only make things more awkward if you did, and since you no longer lived with your parents, you had not practiced your religion as your parents thought you did. In fact, most of the teachings that the nuns and your parents repeated endlessly you did not agree on. They sounded wrong to you and you never understood how in this time so many believed in them. When the nuns told you to always listen to your husband no matter how nonsensical it would be because he was in charge of the woman. When they spoke of God's grace, and yet, he is the one who murdered thousands of innocents just to prove a point or punish one man who did something to anger him. It all made very little sense to you. They were preaching how to be, how to act at all times, that you should always go to church and carry Jesus in your heart. If you did not go to the masses, you‘d face punishment. They forced you and the other girls into a way of living you had not asked for. Of course you could never let anyone know you had doubts. That would only harm yourself more than it could help.

„Oh yes. Thank you. I knew right away you were a good one.“ Hannah cheered. „So now that I know where we stand I should warn you. The ministry probably looks a little intimidating to you. I don‘t know how open you are towards the dark and macabre. We are headed to the woods right now. I know what you are thinking, but really I swear on the Dark One that you have nothing to worry about.“

The road was heading to the outside of town, nearing the woods as Hannah explained to you. After a few minutes more you arrived at a huge rusty and weathered gate.

The heavy wrought iron gate was opened by another man wearing similar clothing and mask as your driver when you came closer. Behind the bars, you caught a glimpse of a huge dark coloured mansion-like building. Nearing the front gate of the main building, you watched in awe as you took in the massive, dark and brooding facade. The heavy stone bricks and intricate decorations established a gothic look of an aged, magnificent architectural house. Thick spines of ivy crawled up the sides of the stone indicating the old age of the whole construction.

The limousine stopped in front of the door and you finally got out of the car. Sister Hannah and the driver got out, and while Hannah led you to the entrance, the driver went to the trunk, pulling out your bags.

„Welcome to the ministry of Papa Emeritus the Third.“ Hannah announced cheerfully, „Swiss love, could you bring the bags inside? I will be showing our new friend here the grounds so she won‘t get lost tomorrow.“ she beamed at you and grabbed your arm linking hers with yours in the process.

As you walked to the entrance, she started explaining to you about the „chain of command“ in the ministry. „I mean, there is not really a true hierarchy. You are still very free to do whatever you want, and if you don‘t want something, you don‘t have to. But Papa is our highest ranking official, and usually we do what he asks of us. I can promise you that he would never ask you to do something you are not willing to do. He can be considered to be our ‘Pope,’ if you will…just better. Oh, and don’t fret when you see Papa for the first time. He has a uh... how should I say... ‘special’ look.“ she smirked, opening the door.

„So, this is the atrium. From here, you can get basically anywhere in the main building.“ She continued leading you around, starting from the cellar, showing you where the kitchen is located, should you ever feel the need for a late night snack, to the main floor where all the official rooms were placed. All the time she informed you about the happenings and everyday life in the ministry. Everyone was tasked with different assignments. The rotation was usually planned by the Cardinal. As the nurse you would not have to do the housework like the Brothers and Sisters of Sin since your job was far more complicated and important than theirs.

She even showed you around outside. The grounds were huge and beautiful. There was a greenhouse located at the far end of the property. Right next to that a big garden bloomed in the sunlight with pretty flowers. Most of them were dark red and black roses.

„They are Primos favourites,“ Hannah informed you when you stopped to take a closer look. “He is very fond and proud of them. So, you better not pick any, or if you do, you better not get caught.” She winked. “The lovebirds here sneak out at night and do all the nasty, sinful things in the garden, and they like to pick a rose after that as a reminder you see. Primo gets mad every time.” Hannah giggled.

The sun had begun to set and the last warm rays of sunshine warmed your skin. It was a truly magical place. You admired every old stone of the walls, every green leaf and every particle of light that cascaded down to the old walls. But like everything in this world, the day was coming to an end, and Hannah suggested you retire for the day.

“We better get you back inside now. I can show you the rest later if you like, or you could roam around on your own.” With that you both made your way back to the main building.

So far, there was nothing too unsettling about the place. The dark decorations with pentagrams and skulls everywhere would be a bit off putting if deep down you didn‘t appreciate the dark. It was one of your biggest ever secrets, but the dark, mysterious, and morbid interested you. It always had.

You and Hannah stood in front of the staircase now. „So, upstairs are the living quarters of the Brothers and Sisters, and yours would be located at the very end of the hall. I will escort you. You must be tired now, and I don‘t want to overwhelm you more than you already are.“

When you reached the top of the stairs, you saw two figures conversing with each other. One of them wore a white dress shirt under a black coat with a crucifix sewed onto the fabric on the left side of his robe. He was wearing dark dress pants accompanied by black and white shoes. The most significant visual effect he had on you was his face. He wore black and white face paint that made him appear to have a skull like head. His pitch black hair was combed back and his piercing eyes made you breathe in sharply. His left eye was white, in stark contrast to the one on the right, which appeared to be greenish. You stared at him, but he was not as unsettling as you would have imagined him to be.

Your gaze met his mesmerizing eyes as you came closer to him, and he kept his eyes on you this whole time. When both you and Hannah stopped in front of the man, she was the first to speak.

“Good evening Papa,” She bowed her head. “Cardinal?” She turned her head to the second man standing there in greeting.

“This is our new nurse. Picked her up by myself from the train station this morning. I was showing her around our ministry.” Then she turned around to you. “This is Papa Emeritus the Third.” She gestured to the man with the skull make-up and you extended your hand to him.

The hypnotizing man turned his whole body to you now, looking down at your hand and then back up into your eyes, catching your hand in his and bowing down to kiss it, all the while holding eye contact.

“La mia bella signorina. Piacere di conoscerti. You must have been sent by Lucifer himself to grace our insignificant church by your beauty.” He almost purred. “You can call me Terzo, bella.” His deep voice sent pleasant shivers down your spine. He was smooth and elegant in a way you were not prepared for. Especially considering his appearance, you were surprised to be treated so gently.

“Thank you. Papa Terzo,” You responded by giving him your name as well. That earned you a smile from him. You had no idea what the first words he spoke to you meant, but they didn’t sound harsh or distasteful. He gazed at you and kept your hand in his for a moment longer than necessary. This action had you blushing slightly. You were lost in his eyes.

Your moment was interrupted when Sister Hannah spoke up again. “And this is Cardinal Copia.”

The movement on the side broke you out of your daze and you looked to the other man. When your eyes found his, you noted they looked similar to Papa Emeritus the Third’s eyes. The left eye was alabaster, while the right eye was a soft emerald. He also wore black makeup around his eyes. He appeared to be a middle-aged man with sideburns and a pencil mustache above his lips. Scanning his face, you noted that his upper lip was also painted black. He wore a black tight cassock and an accompanying black biretta.

He fidgeted around when your eyes skimmed over his appearance for a moment and you gave him a smile. When you held out your hand to him to shake it, he hesitantly grabbed it and gave it a small shake.

“I am also very pleased to make your acquaintance,” The Cardinal muttered in a low voice, bowing down slightly. He could not hold eye contact while speaking to you, and his movement was a bit awkward. He looked down to his feet and when he came back up, his eyes were back on Terzo.

“Now, if you’d excuse us, our new nurse is very exhausted from the day and would like to retreat to her chambers to get some sleep before she officially starts tomorrow.” Hannah said in a sing-song voice and you two walked to the end of the corridor, vanishing behind the door of your new chambers.

“What a pretty flower. Satan must be very pleased with us, don't you think Cardinal?” Terzo rejoiced. “I just fear that our dear brothers and sisters will fake injuries now or intentionally hurt themselves to have her take care of them, sí?” He laughed.

Copia just nodded his head in response, stunned by the beauty of you. His head was going to be occupied by your gorgeous smile for a while. He could not help himself. Something about you seemed so familiar, but he could not pin it down and decided to brush it off for now since Terzo was still waiting for his answer on whether he was getting his mini fridge or not.

You and Sister Hannah entered your new quarters. The room was not outstanding in size or decoration but occupied everything you needed. In fact, you had some extras granted to you that the regular brothers and sisters did not have. First, you got your own rooms that you did not have to share with anyone. Your bed was significantly bigger than usual and you had your own bathroom.

“Oh my lord, you are such a lucky girl.” Hannah squealed right after she closed the door behind you. “You just met Papa, and oh Satan, isn’t he just wonderful?” She swooned. “You made me a little jealous there, not gonna lie to you. But let me warn you. Papa is very flirtatious. You shouldn’t let him get to you too much. Unless you are down for it, of course. Then ignore what I said.” She smiled. “He is very horny too, so I am just trying to inform you before you find out the hard way.” After a moment she realized how that sounded. “Oh, not that he would force himself on you, or whatever, no but his innuendos are very straightforward sometimes. I reckon that can be quite shocking.”

You sighed, plopping down on the bed. “Oh my God, this is all so much to process I feel like my brain is going to explode.” You were still very much in a state of shock and wonder. The whole thing was just so ridiculous. At some point, you thought it was all a dream, and when you woke up none of this would be real. But you knew better and this place just felt far too real. Not even your messed up mind could conjure such an odd scenario.

“Oh sis, I understand. I will leave you to yourself then. Have a good night's rest. I will pick you up tomorrow at 7. Your clothing should be in the wardrobe over there. And I think you’ll get by here in your chambers just fine, yeah?” She was already out the door when she stuck her head back inside. “By the way, sis, I am very glad you are here.” She gave you a soft, sincere smile and closed the door.

You decided to relax for the rest of the evening. After spending about ten more minutes on your bed contemplating everything that happened in the past few hours, you got up and started unpacking the necessary items from your bags. After all, you were not sure if this place was for you. Your friends would give you questioning looks if you told them where you worked, your parents would be mortified. You let out a laugh imagining them coming to the ministry with crucifixes and bottles of holy water to cleanse this place and rescue their sweet little child. No, you could never tell them.

You prepared everything for tomorrow and went to bed with a book to ease your mind. Tomorrow was going to be an eventful day.

If anyone would like I could offer to make a taglist so you would get notified for updates on this. Just let me know yes?

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sunsafewriting · 1 year

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chapter 5 - tide change (3.4k)

chapter except:

For the first time in weeks, Beatrice doesn’t cancel their lesson.

The Governor’s house is a flurry of activity when she arrives. She recognises the faces of several in the army and navy’s senior command, but she passes by them and heads to the drawing room, where Ava waits for her.

“Do you know what’s going on?” Beatrice asks.

Ava shrugs. “A messenger arrived not long ago. A boy in uniform. They’re all flustered about it. Perhaps a delay in the import of their whiskey.”

It seems like far too many officials for a simple problem with a trade route. Beatrice frowns. “You haven’t, ah — heard anything?”

Ava has never been particularly shy about her eavesdropping; she’s reported all sorts of interesting things over the years. Beatrice has, admittedly, feigned a lack of surprise at this information on occasion, even if only to receive that assessing look from Ava, the particular consideration she gives when trying to determine whether Beatrice is teasing her too.

“I’ve had a lesson to prepare for.” Ava gestures grandly to the table, where she’s laid out a number of maps — far more than usual. “And there have been too many officers milling around to allow me to try anything, unfortunately,” she concedes, after another second.

There are two spare chairs positioned at the table: one directly beside Ava, and one across from her. It’s not the usual arrangement of the space, and Beatrice recognises the change for the gentleness that it is; she can choose whether she wants to be near Ava or further away.

She takes the seat beside Ava. Because she can. Because Ava brightens up when she does.

“I appreciate that you’ve got our curriculum set and memorised,” Ava begins, and Beatrice doesn’t correct her, even though it quite often feels like she’s forgetting and remembering things she’s known all her life, moment to moment, when Ava is nearby. “But I thought we could do things differently today.”

“Differently how?”

“Well, if — hypothetically, you understand — you were to chart a course to visit places you might like to see, what sort of route would you plan?” Ava, predictably, takes advantage of their proximity to let her arm nudge Beatrice’s as she reaches for one of the maps and drags it closer. “And, as I said, this is just pretend, of course.” Then, more quietly: “I meant it, when I told you to take your time. It’s only an exercise.”

Beatrice falters. “Based on what criteria am I to choose these locations?”

“Based on interest,” Ava informs her. “Curiosity. Desire.”

Listening to Ava say these words has an effect on Beatrice that she is unable to name. Or scared to name. It no longer feels sufficiently safe to have her hands on the table, or by her sides; instead, she settles them on her knees, gripping tightly at the coarse fabric of her trousers.

“I try not to make a habit of indulging such things,” Beatrice replies.

Under the table, Ava’s fingers brush the inside of Beatrice’s wrist. It’s hardly the most illicit contact they’ve ever had, but something about the fact that Beatrice can feel her touch but not see it makes it all the more dangerous. If it’s invisible, then it’s imaginary; if it’s imaginary, there’s no reason to stop it.

Maybe it’s not Ava’s touch that’s dangerous, but Beatrice herself.

Beatrice, who can no longer seem to pull away.

“I’ll teach you,” Ava promises.

#me uploading what is basically the first draft instead of anxiously rewriting it for three weeks? yes #sunsafewriting #avatrice #ava x beatrice #avatrice fic #avatrice fanfic

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lordgrimwing · 7 months

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Friends and Family #03

“This is nice,” Maglor said, stretched out on a beach towel, as his dripping brother settled next to him, wet from running in the gentle waves with his adopted sons. He closed the novel he'd picked up at a second-hand store the day before.

Maedhros grunted, his mouth occupied by several bobby pins as he fixed his hair, recoiling the soaking braid atop his head. The whole point of pinning his hair up so tightly was to keep it out of the salt water, but he hadn’t expected Elros and Elrond to grab his hands and drag him down into a particularly large wave.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen them this happy,” Maglor continued, nodding to the boys splashing and paddling in the waves, their nearly shoulder-length hair hanging in loose, soaked clumps.

“They love it,” Maedhros said with a soft smile. He’d come up from that wave spitting sand and might have been irritated except he ended up with two armfuls of very excited peredhil. By the time he left the surf, he’d become much better at diving through waves.

They sat in silence for a minute, taking in the scene: seagulls cried overhead, keeping a sharp eye out for abandoned snacks; the twins played along the shore, a younger elf child coming over to join them; other families staked out their claim across the sand, leaving towels and umbrellas to mark their favored spots. The beach was both busy and soothing.

“We should do this more.” Maedhros decided, rinsing his mouth out with water from a bottle and then taking several drinks.

Maglor raised his eyebrows. Fëanor nearly had a fit when they announced that they’d be taking a few days off work during the week so they could do something with the boys during their school holiday. “Who’s going to tell father?”

His brother rolled his eyes in a way that would have had Fëanor pinching his ear if he were an elfling again. “He can take his doctor's advice and take up birdwatching,” He said dismissively.

As the eldest sons, they were privy to more details of their father's health than he appreciated.

Maglor snorted at the suggestion.

More seriously, Maedhros said, “Maybe just an occasional weekend, then.”

They watched the boys and their new friend join a group of older dwarves building an impressive sandcastle. Maglor smiled. “We really should.”

The sun arched across the clear blue sky. Maglor called Elros and Elrond back for lunch. They ate cold tuna salad sandwiches from the cooler on a blanket Maedhros spread on the sand so they could all sit together. Elros showed the adults the blue shell Elrond found in the tide, proudly telling them about the cool shells they found over the years on the coast further south. The younger twin hesitantly asked if he could make necklaces for them all from pieces of the shell when they went back to the city.

After lunch, the twins wanted to go back into the ocean.

“Not right after eating,” Maglor shook his head. “Wait thirty minutes.”

Elros looked like he might want to argue, but his brother grabbed his hand and demanded that he bury him under the sand so he could pretend to be a baby sea turtle.

Maedhros took off his shirt, arching his back and enjoying the warm sun on it. Their father really might have an aneurysm if he found out exactly how publicly immodest his sons got when he wasn’t there to frown at them for rolling up their pant legs. He repacked the cooler and sprawled out on the towel, stretching his long arms and legs and bumping into the other occupant. He grinned at his brother. “Join us this time,” He invited.

Maglor picked up his book and fingered the pages. “I'll get sand in my hair,” He said. He's done his hair up in a dark half bun, leaving a loose tail down his back.

“I'll braid it for you.” He said. “The rest of us need to wash tonight already.”

“Promise not to push me under?”

“I would never,” Maedhros laughed, recalling when, decades ago, they were teaching their younger brothers how to sail on a windy lake. Caranthir insisted that the flimsy life jackets couldn't possibly keep them safe in the waves, refusing to set foot on the light boat. When it became clear that he wouldn't trust the words of his brothers, Maedhros shoved Maglor off the edge, leaving him to flounder in the water until their three younger brothers boarded.

Maglor shuffled around so he faced away from Maedhros. “Go ahead and braid.”

The tall redhead sat up. He quickly undid the bun and set about dividing the other’s hair into four parts at the crown of his head.

They sat quietly while he worked, Maglor watching the other families.

A human woman with frizzled brown hair caught a child who looked about seven years old by the elbow. She wore a striped green and gray swimsuit with a white over-shirt and large sunglasses.

“Oh no you don’t, Elianor,” She admonished, pulling the girl back to the family’s towels and bins of beach toys. “You’re going to be red as a beat and peeling in the car tomorrow if you don’t put more sunscreen on.”

“Mom,” The girl complained as white ointment was slathered across her bare back and under the edges of her swimsuit.

“Do your face and ears,” The woman directed, squeezing more of the sunscreen out of a yellow bottle for her daughter before bending down to coat her legs.

Once everything was worked in and the white layer was exchanged for a slightly oily sheen, the child was released into the water. Once all the children were appropriately protected and freed, the woman popped open a beach chair and settled under an umbrella.

She looked over at Maglor as Maedhros began pinning the braid up like his own. “Some children never learn,” She said by way of explanation.

He said something in noncommittal agreement, a nagging thought starting to form in the back of his mind.

Her eyes flicked around their towels, blanket, and cooler. “Just the two of you then?” She asked.

“No,” Maglor said quickly. “The twins in red burying each other in the sand are ours.”

She looked out to where he pointed. “Cute,” She said in the way he was discovering many parents did when talking about other people’s kids. She leaned back in her chair and probably closed her eyes, though he couldn’t tell past the glasses.

Maedhros patted his head like he did when they were kids. “There you go, ready for the water.”

Maglor scooted around to face him again. “Don’t get my hair wet.”

Hands raised in surrender were his only response.

He looked down at his wristwatch. Twenty minutes still to go. That nagging feeling kept eating at him. He picked up the book again, opening to where he left off. He tried to read, but he couldn’t get back into the story.

All at once, he dropped the book and turned to Maedhros.

“We didn’t put sunscreen on them!”

“What?” The other asked, blinking as he came back from wherever the warmth sent him drifting off to.

“Elros and Elrond,” He said, looking over to where the boys were just a couple heads sticking out of the sand, several other kids having joined in on burying them. “They’re part human. They could get sunburns!”

He couldn’t believe he’d forgotten about it. He hadn’t packed sunscreen, he didn’t even think Maedhros or he had any at their homes. Such a simple, everyday thing for humans, and they’d completely forgotten about it. He dreaded to think about how painful the children’s skin would be tomorrow.

Maedhros frowned. “They’re part elf, too,” He reasoned. “Why should they get burned?”

“They might,” Maglor repeated with worry. “I should go buy some. Or maybe we should all leave so it doesn’t get any worse.”

Maedhros sighed. “It’ll be a thirty-minute drive each way. The damage is already done if it’s going to happen, so let’s not ruin the rest of the day. Besides,” He added. “They’ve clearly spent a lot of time in the water. I think they’d know if they need to worry about it.”

Personally, Maglor never thought it was too late to start mitigating damage, but his brother had made up his mind. He’d just have to deal with whatever came of it.

#let them be happy!#let M+M experience a real childhood through E+E #stumbling their way through parenthood #whatever happens later. they love each other now #when your kids are peredhil and you don't know when they'll be like humans vs elves #it's happy time but i sure am sewing the seeds for later things in this one #Maglor is the parent who worries #change my mind #the silmarillion #maglor #maedhros #elrond #elros #twdd au #grimwing writes

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tngrace · 1 year

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Hold My Hand

AU in my AU world. Grace and Bradley have been struggling with infertility and they finally break down to Dad!Mav & Pops!Ice.

After almost two months, this is finally complete. It kinda ran away from me, and got really long, but I hope you enjoy. I've interspersed some lyrics from the song the title comes from, so those will be in red throughout. It's my 1st (? 2nd maybe?) time doing that, so hopefully it's not too awkward.

🏷: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers @bayisdying @cycbaby @askmarinaandothers @breadsquash @semperhuggs @ladylanera @callmemana @starlit-epiphany

Two years... It'd been two years and Grace felt like such a failure.

Grace met Bradley at the Hard Deck, ten years ago when she was barely twenty. They'd dated for six years before they got married, and they'd been married for four years. Two years ago, they felt settled and were ready to expand their family. Bradley was teaching at Top Gun, and Grace was running the kitchen at the Hard Deck, having entered a partnership with Penny.

But things weren't exactly going as they hoped. Grace had been afraid of this ever since she'd learned at eighteen that she had PCOS. And while she'd shared her worries with Bradley when they started trying, she still felt like a huge failure. It even affected their sex at times, Grace getting too lost in her head. They'd kept it quiet from everybody that they were trying because Grace didn't want the added pressure of others constantly asking, and she didn't want anyone else to be as disappointed as they were each month.

At her last doctor's appointment, they recommended that they start fertility testing and meds. While Grace agreed that it was the next logical step, she also was worried. While they made decent money, they still had bills to pay, and she didn't want for them to go into debt over this. So she was worried, and everyone was starting to notice. She kept to herself a lot at the Hard Deck, hiding out in the kitchen instead of working the bar or socializing in the down times. She knew the minute they agreed to the testing, they would have to start telling others. She knew keeping the secret, especially from Ice and Mav, had been really hard on Bradley, but he'd done it for her.

I heard from the heavens that clouds have been grey

Ice and Mav had noticed the kids were acting different at every family dinner for the last two months, but they were doing their best to act like everything was fine. After the second month of awkwardness, they decided to tackle it, especially after Penny confirmed Grace had been acting different at work too. Grace was the best thing to ever happen to Bradley and their family, and they wanted to help fix whatever needed fixing. So they made a plan; Mav would talk to B and Ice would see if Grace would talk to him.

Getting Bradley to talk was harder than Mav expected though. When asked if everything was ok, Bradley assured him it was. But the kid still couldn't lie and Mav saw right through it.

I see that you're hurtin',

"Ice we have to do something," Mav whined after several failed attempts at getting Bradley to talk to him at work or at the Hard Deck.

Ice gently squeezed the back of Mav's neck, massaging some. "What about a day at the hanger. You know B likes being out there, and Grace could probably use the quiet."

Mav already has his phone out texting Bradley to see when Grace was off next and if they could go. The plan was set for Saturday; they'd meet Ice and Mav at the hanger around nine in the morning. They were hopeful time away from everything would help the kids open up to them a little more. Especially since it was rare for them to keep anything from them like this.

After getting Mav's text, Grace curled into Bradley's side. "You know we have to tell them," she whispers. Her fingers are drawing idle circles on his chest, as his fingers stroke up and down her back.

"Yea. I think...." he sighs a little. "I think they're on to us. Mav's been asking me all week if everything is ok."

why'd you take so long To tell me you need me?

Grace lets her fingers keep dancing over his chest. "Mmmmm yea. We probably haven't been the most subtle lately."

"Grace..."

"No I know. I've been off. It's been... It's been a lot, with a lot of decisions to make. Fuck B I've had you keeping secrets from them for two years. I'm surprised they haven't caught on before now."

He tips her chin up so she can meet his eyes. "You haven't had me doing anything. I agreed."

She bites her lip softly as she nods. He softly kisses her forehead, holding her tight. "It's going to be ok babe. It'll be ok."

Raise your head, look into my wishful eyes

They pull up to the hanger, the door wide open. Bradley is not surprised in the least that his dads are already there. They probably spent the night before there if the truth was known. He laces his hand with Grace's as they get out of the bronco. He knows she's worried about today, but he knows Mav and Ice will be the most supportive parents ever.

"Morning," he calls out.

"Hey kiddos," Mav smiles pulling them both into his arms.

"Hey dad," Bradley smiles, before Grace sinks into the hug. She clings a little tighter and Mav just lets her as Ice hugs Bradley. She sinks into Ice's hug next; both Ice and Mav give the best hugs. It takes all she has not to start crying.

"Dad made breakfast," Ice says as Grace slowly pulls back.

"Well let's eat," Bradley smiles. He wraps his arm over Grace's shoulder as he leads her towards the makeshift table in the hanger. Conversation flows easily as they eat and then Mav asks if Bradley wants to go up. He turns to Grace who is nodding without him even having to ask. She knows Bradley loves being in the air with Mav and she is perfectly fine being on the ground with Ice. They clean up breakfast and Mav and Bradley are in the air within the hour.

Grace waves as they take off, before she turns to Ice to see what he would like to do. He pats the couch and Grace lets out a breath before joining him. "You two are tag teaming us aren't you?"

Ice snorts as he pulls her into side. "And this is why you've always been my favorite Gracie." She chuckles as she lets him give her a side hug. "You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. We just wanna help. We can tell things have been off, and we're just worried about you two."

She rests her head on his shoulder as she gathers her thoughts. Ice and Mav have always been great to her, like dads she never had. She knows how lucky Bradley was to have them. She pulls her legs up to her chest, resting her chin on her knees. "We've been keeping secrets. I... I asked B to keep secrets. But... we have to be honest now. We..." She takes a shuddering breath as Ice lays a hand on her back.

"Grace you don't have to say anything you don't want."

"Its not that we don't want. B would've told you from the beginning but, I asked him not to. I didn't...." She feels tears gather and knows she's not going to be able to stop them. "I didn't want to disappoint you two as well."

"Grace, honey, you could never." Ice pulled her into his arms as the tears silently roll down her cheeks. "Oh honey."

She tried to pull herself together as Ice just holds her tight. "We've.... we've been trying to make yall grandparents," she whispers.

So cry tonight But don't you let go of my hand You can cry every last tear I won't leave 'til I understand

Ice's arms tighten around her. Before he can say anything she just pushes on wanting to get this all out now that she's started. "We've been trying for two years with no success. Bc of my PCOS they wanna do some tests and then put me on meds but it's not guaranteed. They've already told us we should consider fertility doctors. I just.... I've let it all get to me lately and I know I've been off. I just..." she shrugs. "I just feel like such a failure. I'd do anything to make B a dad because I know he'll be an amazing one but I can't."

Ice gently turns her face towards him. "Grace I want you to hear me when I say this ok? You are not a failure. You're not. Things aren't happening like you want right now but that does not make you a failure."

She can't stop the tears as Ice pulls her back into his arms. "He gets so excited each time and then I just have to crush it," she sobs. "He tries to hide how hurt he is, but I still see it. I still feel it."

Ice just holds her tight letting her get it all out as he thinks of how to word what he wants to say so she hears him.

"I don't know what to do anymore. I think I've given up hope. The meds might work, they might not. And then what? How long do we keep going, keep being disappointed. And everything after this will be so expensive. How do I know when it's enough and I just have to crush his dreams all together? I can't do it.... I dunno that I can keep doing it. I can't keep hurting him and destroying his dream."

"Grace honey..... it's your dream too."

"I don't even think about me anymore," she whispers into his chest. It's so quiet he almost doesn't hear it.

"Grace..."

"I don't," she chokes on a sob. "I never think about me. I knew it could be like this, I tried to prepare him, but I don't think I did a good job. And it's a constant let down. God he should've found someone better... prettier... someone who can make all his dreams come true."

"Honey, I've known Bradley a very, very long time. You are the best thing that has ever happened to that kid. He's been looking for you his entire life, and when he found you? His whole life made sense. Even if you never give him a child he would never ever blame you for it. You're all he needs. You're everything to him." He hugs her tight to him, rubbing her back, his heart breaking for the girl that has been like his daughter for ten years now.

"You completed our family Gracie girl. You're not just the best thing to happen to that boy, but to us too. We weren't sure we would ever have a family beyond just us two, but then we got Bradley. And while we hate how that happened, we loved that boy like our own. And now you, the daughter we never had, but love very much. Making a family comes in all shapes and sizes. We all would be lost without you, so never think for a second you belong anywhere else. Would we love a grandchild? Of course. But if it never happens, we have you two."

He holds her tight as she cries into his chest, and he prays his words are absorbed. "You know we will help anyway we can. You don't even have to ask."

"I dunno that I could ever ask that. It'd be..."

He tips her chin up to look into his determined gaze. "You're not asking. I'm offering. We'd do anything for you two. You're all we've got; we might as well spoil the hell out of you two."

Grace gives him a small smile. "Mav might not like you spending all his airplane money."

Ice laughs out loud at that. "Oh honey. Mav would give all that up to see you two happy and living your dream."

Grace hugs him tight. "Thank you Pops," she whispers quietly.

"Anytime Gracie girl. Anytime."

But if you decide to, I'll ride in this life with you I won't let go 'til the end

Mav had let Bradley fly around for about 10 minutes before he decided to press. "B..." he starts but Bradley cuts him off.

"You don't have to ask again Dad. I'm done lying," he sighs. He levels the plane out and thinks of his words. "I'm surprised you haven't pressed before now. But.... I am sorry for lying to you."

"It's ok Bradley. We're worried about you both and just wanna help. Penny said Grace stays in the kitchen a lot and has been really quiet."

"Yea...." Bradley sighs as he brushes the hair off his forehead and back behind the headset band. "Things have gotten to be a lot lately. We uh..... we've..." he trails off finding it hard to admit the truth. It's been their secret for so long, he doesn't know what to say. Plus he's just as worried about Grace as they are. He wishes he could make things easier for her, help in some way, but she's been shutting down a lot, even on him.

"It's ok kiddo. You don't have to say anything you don't want to. And if it's easier we can always land again."

"Yea... I might... you know I love being in the air but it might be better not having your life in my hands for this. I dunno how steady I'll be."

Mav chuckles at that. "You know that's never worried me Baby Goose. I trust you with my life, but whatever you're comfortable with."

Bradley circles back towards the hanger and slowly sets her down. He stops at the end of the runway and pops the canopy. "Can we just sit out here before we taxi back?" He knows Ice is probably talking to Grace and he hopes Pops is helping so he doesn't want to interrupt that.

"Yea of course." Mav climbs out and settles under the wing in the shade, Bradley following him. He pulls Bradley into a tight hug as soon as he can and Bradley just sinks into it. "It's going to be ok. Whatever it is, it'll be ok."

Bradley clings to his dad before he chokes out "I don't know anymore dad.. I just don't know." Mav runs his fingers through Bradley's hair until his kid pulls back some. "Maybe we should go to the firepit to be more comfortable? This might take a while."

"Whatever you want B," Mav smiles. Mav ends up taxiing the plane to the hangar. He waves at Ice and Grace before heading around back to the firepit near the house. Bradley is already settled in one of the chairs staring off into space.

"They looked fine. More importantly Grace looked fine. You know Pops will take care of her." He could tell she'd be crying, but he left that out.

Bradley smiles up at him. "Yea I know. He's good like that. You're not half bad yourself old man," he teases.

Mav scoffs and rises to the bait like he knows Bradley wants him too. "Who are you calling old kiddo?"

Bradley snorts as Mav gets settled beside him. Mav squeezes his shoulder in encouragement. He decides it'll be better to just rip the bandaid off quickly so he blurts it out in one go. "We've been trying for a baby for two years and I think Grace has about reached her breaking point. We've kept it a secret but now her doctor is recommending testing and meds and it's all just been a lot."

"Oh kid," Mav sighs. He can't not pull Bradley into another hug after that and Bradley just breaks, silent tears streaming down his cheeks. "I gotcha Baby Goose. Let it out," Mav murmurs, his heart breaking for his two kids who have been struggling so long on their own.

"I don't know what to do anymore dad."

Mav runs his fingers through Bradley's hair calming him. "What are they thinking?"

Bradley wipes his eyes and lets out a soft sigh as he sits back in his chair. He runs Mav through her disorder and what testing the doctors are wanting to do. He tells him they wanna put her on meds and if that doesn't work they'll recommend fertility doctors. He doesn't stop there though telling Mav everything; how Grace has been shutting down, how she thinks the doctors are good idea but she's worried they can't afford them nor is she confident they'll work, how she thinks she's disappointing him and will disappoint everybody and that's why they've kept it a secret, how she constantly tells him he deserves someone better that can give him a family.

"I don't want anyone else dad. Grace is my world, my everything. She's amazing and more than I deserve. But she's so down on herself right now, I can't get her to see it. I mean hell the problem might not be all her. We don't know. But two years is so long I'm afraid she's gonna give up. Or maybe she already has. I just.... I dunno what to do anymore."

Mav gently squeezes the back of Bradley's neck, his heart breaking in two as he listens. "Hey. It's going to be ok. This is the first right step ok? You're talking about it, I'm sure Pops got Gracie to talk. You two aren't alone B. Not anymore."

"I get why she wanted to keep it a secret. It's been hard enough on us, much less adding in anyone else's hopes. But I just...."

"It's gotten to be too much and you two need help. It's ok to admit that B."

Bradley gives him a small smile. "Pops has rubbed off on you a lot."

Mav scoffs a laugh but concedes. "You're right he has."

"'S not a bad thing," Bradley grins.

Mav chuckles as he ruffles Bradley's hair. "We just have to be there for her. Remind her how much we love her no matter what. She knows you're not going anywhere, Baby Goose. She knows that. But sometimes..... when you get lost in your head, it's hard to know that in the moment. Constant reminders help. And you know you can come to us for anything. We'll help anyway you want or need. You don't even have to ask."

"I know.... We just hate asking for money or anything like that. It's not..."

Mav gently cups his jaw. "Stop. I know it's not easy to do, you're too much like me," he smiles ruefully. "But we are offering. Whatever you two need. We'd do it for you."

"Thanks dad," Bradley whispers hugging Mav tight. "Can we..."

"Come on," Mav chuckles, knowing exactly what Bradley was asking for before he even finished the question.

They head back into the hanger just as Ice and Grace were pulling apart from their own hug. "Everything...." Grace didn't even let Bradley finish. She was up and in his arms before he could blink. She clung to him tight as Bradley just held her. Mav sat down by Ice on the couch just watching them.

"I love you," she whispers into his neck.

"I love you too baby."

She hugs him for the longest before pulling back and wiping her eyes. She gives him a soft smile and a quick kiss before they rejoin his parents. They spend the rest of the afternoon talking, relaxing, just enjoying the company. Ice and Bradley grill burgers for supper while Grace and Mav sit around the firepit talking.

Its a much needed night for them, and they end up staying the night with the promise of breakfast in the morning. Once the kids are asleep, Ice and Mav quietly check on them and find them sound asleep curled around each other. "Ice," Mav whispers as Ice pulls him away and to their room.

"I know love. I know."

"What do we do?"

"We be there for them and help them anyway we can. They came to us so that's the first step." Ice gently cradles his face. "I know you wanna fix it as bad as I do, but we have to wait on them. Whatever they ask for, we'll do. But we can't force them. Grace needs all the extra love right now possible. But I suspect Baby Goose does too."

"Yea. They're both in need of a little extra TLC."

"Good thing that's your specialty," Ice teases.

Promise me, just hold my hand

Two weeks later, Bradley lets Mav and Ice know that Grace is going to have the first test done. They want to make sure her tubes are open. Ice makes sure to get Bradley the day off, especially when Bradley lets on how apprehensive Grace is about it. Mav already makes plans to take care of dinner for them that night and Bradley just hugs them both tight.

The procedure isn't as bad as Grace expected, but she's still thankful to have Bradley home that day. While she's not in any pain, she doesn't feel the best after, so she's more than glad to accept all the cuddles he wants to give.

The doorbell rings about five and Bradley untangles from Grace. "That's probably dad," he murmurs softly. She wasn't asleep but she'd dozed some.

"K," she yawns. She throws on one of Bradley's hoodies and follows him to the door.

"Oh you didn't have to get up," Mav tells her after setting the casserole on the counter.

"It's fine. I probably needed to move." She gives him a smile as he pulls her into his arms.

"You ok sweetheart?"

She nods against his shoulder before slowly pulling back. "Yea it wasn't as bad as I thought. Not really cramping like they said I would, just feel off."

Mav brushes a curl behind her ear before Ice pulls her into his arms for a hug. "Well that's good. I'm sure B has been very attentive?"

Grace giggles as Ice cocks his eyebrow at Bradley, who's getting down plates and cups for drinks.

"Who do you take me for Pops? You taught me better than that."

"Gracie?"

Grace full on laughs at that, settling into the seat when all three shoo her away from helping. "He's been amazing Pops I promise."

"Good. That's what we want to hear."

Mav dishes up dinner while Bradley gets them all drinks. Before they can ask she offers up, "We've already gotten the results and everything is good. Tubes are open so...." She pushes some of the food around, before giving them a shaky smile. "The doctor's going to call in meds to start next cycle and they've already sent a referral for B to get tested too."

Bradley's hand squeezes her thigh; he's so proud of her being able to get that all out.

"Sounds promising right?" Mav can't help but ask as he gives her shoulder a squeeze.

She wipes at her eyes before giving him a smile. "Yea... yea you're right."

Bradley and Ice change the subject after that, and dinner goes well. Mav and Ice insist on cleaning up despite the kids' protests. Once everything is clean and the leftovers packed into their fridge, Mav and Ice hug them both tight, making them promise to call if they need anything.

It's another few weeks before she can start the meds, having to wait until the third day of her cycle. And it's two weeks after that, that Bradley goes for his test. Deep down Grace knew it would come back just fine, so she's not the least bit surprised when it does.

She's not thrilled about having blood work done on the third week, but she understands it's necessary. The first round of meds, help with ovulation, but it doesn't bring the results they were hoping for.

Round two sees her having blood work and a mid-cycle ultrasound to see how the meds are affecting her ovaries. Bradley isn't able to go with her, but once more, it doesn't turn out as bad as she was expecting. She's learned she's real good at making scenarios worse in her head.

What does surprise her is when both her fathers-in-law show up at the house before her shift after that appointment, although she really shouldn't be. Mav and Ice have been the best during this time, literally offering to do anything they need. They take her out to lunch, and she promises them she's fine. They talk a little bit about her appointment, but they don't linger on it long. Their main goal was just to offer her a little extra TLC and get her mind off things.

Cycle three hurt the worst because Grace was almost positive things had worked. The day she got her period though, found her curled on the couch in one of Bradley's hoodies as she just cried her heart out. She'd been so sure this time; she knows she should've known better than to hope, but she couldn't help it.

She sent B a sad/crying gif on his lunch break when he asked how she was and he instantly knew. He just wanted to go home to her, but he knew he couldn't. So he did the next best thing he could think of. Mav was on base with him, helping with some training so he called Ice and asked him to go over. Then he text Grace; Pops is coming over. I know you probably want to be alone but I'd feel better if someone was with you since I can't be.

B he doesn't have to. I'll be fine.

Please.

She gives in at that, knowing Bradley is probably worrying about her and she'd rather he not be worried about her while at work. It's only fifteen minutes after Bradley's text does she hear the door open.

"Gracie?" Ice calls out softly.

"In here." It comes out as more of a croak, and she winces at how rough it sounds. She sits up, wiping her eyes, and before she can fix her hair, Ice is sitting down beside her on their big sectional couch.

"I'm sorry I loo..."

"Oh Gracie." Ice pulls her right into his arms and just holds her tight. "You know I don't care one bit about that."

She sniffs as she clings to him and as Ice rubs her back she feels herself start to cry once more. His arms tighten around her as he tries to comfort her. "Oh sweetheart. It's ok. Just get it all out," he murmurs softly. He's so glad Bradley called because he shudders to think of her here alone like this.

"I thought this time it'd worked," she sobs as she clings to him. "I knew better," she hiccups.

"Oh Gracie. It's ok to hope, honey. I know it just makes it hurt worse, but it's ok to let yourself hope and believe it's going to work."

She just clings to him as she sobs into his chest and Ice just holds her tight. It doesn't take much longer before she's exhausted herself. "Just rest sweetheart. I'm not going anywhere."

She falls asleep against him and Ice just holds her until she's deep asleep. He lays her down on the couch, laying a quilt over her. He sends Bradley a text letting him know Grace is asleep and he's got her.

He cleans up the kitchen and checks the pantry and fridge for lunch and dinner options. He's not that surprised when he doesn't find much, considering how much both of them have worked lately. He sends Mav a text to pick up dinner, whatever Bradley wants and he'll order whatever Grace wants for lunch later. He's halfway into a movie when Grace stirs.

"Hi sweetheart," he murmurs, as she slowly sits up emerging from the blanket cocoon.

"Pops?" Her voice is groggy and her eyes are still swollen, her hair a mess.

"Yea. Still here." He pulls her into his side, letting her rest on his shoulder. "Feeling better?"

"A little. Back still hurts but it will for the first day. Cramping a little too," she shrugs.

"Anything I can do?"

She shakes her head as she stays curled into his side. "Thanks for being here," she whispers after several minutes of quiet.

"No where else I'd rather be. You know Mav and B would be here if they didn't have training today."

"I know." She gives him a small smile before working out what movie he's watching. They finish the movie in silence and then Ice orders take out from the local Mexican restaurant Grace loves. Over lunch he entertains her with stories of Mav and the flyboys, and it does the trick to keep her distracted enough to eat.

Her mood seems to improve marginally throughout the day as they watch TV together and by the time Mav and Bradley come through the door with pizzas, Grace is laughing. Bradley turns towards the bedroom to hide his tears of relief, but Mav still sees them.

He sets the pizzas on the counter then pulls Bradley into the hallway and into a hug. "She's ok Baby Goose. Everything is going to be ok."

Bradley nods against Mav's shoulder before pulling back. He wipes his eyes giving his dad a tired smile. "I'm gonna go change then I'll be out."

Mav squeezes his shoulder before he heads to the living room. "We come bearing pizza," he smiles, being dramatic to hear another laugh from Grace.

"Good were starving," Ice declares, pulling Mav into his lap after he sets the pizzas on the coffee table. "Where's Baby Goose?"

"Changing." Grace can see them having a silent conversation, but before she can say she's going to check on her husband, Ice sits Mav on the couch and is up. Grace shakes her head fondly as she leans into the hug Mav pulls her into.

"My Mr Fix-it," Mav laughs as he holds his daughter tight.

"He's pretty good at it," she murmurs.

"That he is." He tightens his arms around her, dropping a kiss on her forehead. "You ok Gracie girl?"

"I will be. Having Pops here today helped. Was a good call for B to make. Don't know that being alone would've been good. I tend to get lost in my head easily. And I was a mess before Ice got here. I just..." she shrugs, feeling Mav tightening his arms once more. "I just thought this time was it," she whispers.

"It's going to happen. One way or another. You two will be the best parents ever."

"I dunno anymore," she sighs.

I can see everything you're blind to now Your prayers will be answered

Mav pulls back just a little and cradles her face. "I know. Ice knows." He wipes the few tear tracks off her cheeks. "We'll hold onto that hope until you can believe again Grace. We'd do anything to make your dreams come true. We weren't just saying that that day at the hanger. Anything."

"I know." She curls back against his chest. "It's just so hard to ask for help. Hard to know when we have to give up."

"You don't give up until you've tried every possible option."

Grace chuckles softly as she nods against his chest. "We can't afford every possible option Mav."

"Oh sweet girl you can. With us, you can."

I won't let go 'til the end

Ice quietly knocks on the door when he sees Bradley standing in the middle of their room just holding his clothes. He startles a little, turning towards the noise. "Hey Pops. Give me just a minute and imma change and be out."

"May I?" Ice asks instead.

Bradley nods as he swallows deep, knowing Ice won't take a no. He drops his clothes on the bed and before he knows it, he's wrapped in Ice's arms. He sinks into the hug, Ice being tall enough that Bradley can just sink into it.

Ice's arms tighten as he feels Bradley relaxing into him. "It's ok for you to not be ok either Bradley."

"I'm..."

"Uh huh. Nope. Don't you dare say you're fine."

"Yes sir," he murmurs into Ice's shoulder.

Ice holds him tight; "Come on B. It's ok. Let it out."

I'll be right here, hold my hand

"Pops," he hiccups. Ice's hand rubs up into his hair, holding him against him.

"I gotcha. It's ok. Let it out." And Bradley breaks. His sobs are silent, but he shakes in Ice's arms. "It's ok Baby Goose. It's ok." He holds the little boy he helped raise tight in his arms.

Ice just lets him cry, whispering words of comfort over and over until Bradley's body stops shaking and he's just clinging to Ice sniffling. "She's ok B. You're both going to be ok."

"She was sure," he whispers.

"I know. I know kiddo." He places a soft kiss on Bradley's forehead. "You made the right call having me come over."

Bradley nods as they sit on the edge of the bed. His fingers fiddle and Ice just pulls him back into his side. "She's ok now B. I'm not saying things are gonna be easier because they're not. But for tonight everything is ok."

Bradley gives him a small nod.

"It's ok to let her see you break too."

"I can't..." He shakes his head in denial. "No I can't. She needs me to be strong."

Ice gently ruffles his hair with a soft chuckle. "No kiddo. She just needs you." He gives Bradley another squeeze. "Tonight you just let me and dad be the strong ones ok? You just be."

"Pops is right," Grace says quietly from the doorway. Neither had heard her come looking from them. Bradley's head shoots up at her voice and he instantly starts trying to pull himself together.

Ice gives her a smile, squeezes Bradley's shoulder and then gets up leaving them to it. Grace walks closer, walking between Bradley's knees. With him sitting, she's sorta looking down at him. She threads her fingers through his hair and then lets her arms drop to the top of his shoulders. She pulls him close so his head rests against her, her head resting on top of his.

"Should listen to him," she whispers. She places a kiss on top of his head. "You can just be babe. I know you're just as crushed," she whispers.

Bradley's arms tighten around her as he gives a small nod. They stay like that in the quiet of their room just holding each other for the longest. Finally Bradley pulls back a little, reaching up and cupping her face. He softly kisses her, his thumbs rubbing under her swollen eyes. "We'll do an eye mask tonight, make you feel better."

She gives him a soft sweet smile. "Ok. But first we let Dad and Pops take care of us both." She softly rubs his cheeks until he nods, then she hugs him tight once more. They link hands and head back to the living room.

Ice and Mav are on opposite ends of the sectional, leaving plenty of room between them for the kids. The pizza boxes are open, drinks on the coffee table, and Homeward Bound already queued on the TV ready to go. Ice and Grace have watched Sweet Home Alabama earlier in the day, and before she'd gone to the bedroom she suggested that maybe they watch Bradley's comfort movie that night.

Bradley curls into Mav's side while Grace settles beside Ice. Mav softly rubs Bradley's head, placing a soft kiss there. "We gotcha Baby Goose."

"I know dad," he murmurs.

Ice presses play, and they get the kids to eat at least two pieces each. They leave the pizza there during the movie in case they want more. Bradley and Grace naturally drift together during the movie, curling around each other. Ice nor Mav are surprised when Grace drifts off or that Bradley fights to stay awake the whole time.

Once the movie's over, Ice starts cleaning up while Mav gets Bradley up and both of them off to bed. He picks up the living room, before they go tell the kids goodnight. They lock up behind themselves after seeing the kids curled in bed together sound asleep.

"Don't give me that look," Ice sighs as he and Mav walk to their vehicles.

"There has to be something we can do!"

Ice pulls Mav into his arms hugging him tight. "I know love, I know. But we can't. Not until they decide they wanna do more."

"They do though! They're just scared."

"Rightfully so," Ice gently reminds. "Pete we have to remember they've been doing this for two years already. Two years of constant disappointment."

"I know," he sighs, feeling his heart break more. "I just wanna make it better!"

"You did, tonight." Ice kisses his husband softly before they pull apart. "We'll just keep showing up and reminding them we're here. They'll come to us when they're ready."

"I'm not patient and you know it."

"That I do," Ice laughs. "I'll see you at home."

The kids seemed to perk back up a week later, but Ice and Mav were still worried. They were on the last cycle of meds, and everyone was on edge to see what would happen. Grace was the least surprised, when once again, it didn't happen. She was crushed, no doubt, but this time she was prepared.

It took them another two weeks before they came to Ice and Mav though. Bradley brought it up over family dinner, letting them know as forewarned, the doctor would not be calling in anymore meds and recommended they have a consult with the fertility clinic.

"What do you two want to do?" Ice asked gently.

Bradley looked at Grace, whose hands were fiddling in her lap as she bit her lip, not meeting their eyes. Bradley gently squeezes one of her hands and Grace finally looks up.

"We're going to do the consult. See what options they give," she finally said. She gives them both a watery smile. "Someone told me not to give up until we try every option and they'd hold onto the hope for me until I could believe again. I think I wanna trust him on that."

Mav is around the table before anyone can blink, hugging her tight. "That's right sweetheart. I still believe. Ice still believes."

She nods against his shoulder, feeling herself relax a little more. Once Mav is sitting back down across from them she says, "They're supposed to call us by the end of the week with an appointment."

"You just let us know what you need ok?"

"We will Pops," Bradley promises.

Hold my hand, hold my hand

They're appointment isn't for another three months, and during that time Grace puts all their troubles out of her mind. She focuses on herself and on Bradley, on their family and friends and just lets herself be. It's relaxing and feels like just what she needed. Since she's not on any meds, her periods are once again erratic, but she does her best not to let it bother her.

By the time they have their consult, she feels stable once more, and feels like she and Bradley are back in a really good place. The consult takes forever; they go over all the testing they'd had done previously, their medical histories, and the best plan of action going forward. She tries not to stress over the dollar amounts that get thrown at them, but it's really a lot.

By the time they leave, they both feel overwhelmed. "Think maybe we should go see dad and pops," Bradley says once they're in the Bronco.

"Yea... yea maybe."

Bradley squeezes her hand before texting Mav, who tells him to come straight over. Bradley chuckles when he reads the response. "Bet dad's drove pops crazy this morning."

Grace giggles. "Probably. You know he's just worried."

Bradley softly kisses the back of her head before he heads over to their house. He's not surprised in the least when Mav is waiting on the porch, Ice in the doorway. "Ready for a hug attack?" Bradley laughs as they get out.

He's not wrong; Mav instantly pulls her into his arms, stopping Bradley before he can get on the porch away from his dad. He hugs him tight next, while Grace goes to greet Ice. "I tried to keep him inside," Ice whispers, causing Grace to giggle.

"It's fine. I know he's been nervous."

Once inside, Bradley lays out all the paperwork they were given. He explains everything, with Grace chiming in as needed. "So this is what they're recommending first?" Mav asks, looking over the paperwork.

"Yea. The IUI is cheaper and less invasive. Essentially just putting everything where it needs to be to make a baby."

Ice gently squeezes Mav's arm before they meet the kids' gazes. "Do you want to do it?" Ice asks.

Bradley and Grace share a look, having a silent conversation between themselves. "Yea. I want to try. I...." she breaks off, steeling herself before she continues. "I don't want to give up just yet. I want to make Bradley a dad because I know he'll be an amazing one. I want to expand this little family we have."

Mav gives a tight hug. He's so proud that she took his words to heart and is still holding on to a little bit of hope despite everything trying to take it from her.

"Then we'll make it happen," Ice promises.

"Actually.. I think we can handle this first round. We've saved up some over the last few months. And we wanna do this as much as possible without dipping into any savings or airplane money you two have. We know we might have to, but.."

"B you don't have to do that. We can help."

"I know, dad." Bradley gives him that sweet smile that reminds him of the four year old that hung onto his every word. "But let us do this first round. If we have to do more, then we'll need the help."

Ice squeezes Mav's arm once more, and Mav concedes. "Alright. We can do that."

"Thanks dad." Bradley hugs him tight, knowing how much it took for Mav to concede to him just then. "I promise we'll let you help when we need it."

Grace has to do another round of meds, with ovulation tests, and before they know it, the day of the procedure rolls around. She keeps Mav's words in the back of her mind for the whole two weeks, and Ice and Mav do their best to keep the kids distracted and busy during those two weeks at Bradley's request.

The day she should start her period comes and goes. They try not to think about it, but it's all Grace can think of. The kitchen at the Hard Deck gets a solid deep clean, and Grace would've tackled the bar too if Penny hadn't stopped her. The next day is the same, except Grace is off and she finds herself at base, cleaning Bradley's office, before tackling Mav's.

Mav finds her after his last class of the day. "Gracie?"

She spins to face him with a sheepish smile. "Hi," she waves.

"Sweetheart what are you doing?"

She sighs as she sinks into the chair across from his desk. "I needed to stay busy and I was off today. Figured if I showed up and tried to clean the bar again, Penny would kill me. So I came here."

Mav leans up against his desk, watching her. "Uh huh. And you've just been cleaning?"

"Yea. Pops' office is way too clean to even bother. So I did yours and Bradley's."

I know you're scared and your pain is imperfect

Mav kneels down in front of her when she won't meet his eyes. "What's going on sweetheart?"

She sighs as her shoulders slump. "I should've started yesterday," she sighs.

Mav gives her hand a squeeze. "I see." He stands up and kisses her forehead. "Well it's a good thing it's Friday," he smiles. He drops some things on his desk, before snatching up some keys.

"Why?" Grace asks giving him a puzzled look.

"Because. Means we can go to the hanger for the weekend. Get out of town."

"I've got a shift tomorrow."

"I'll call Penny."

"Mav no its fine. I just..."

"Trust me sweetheart. If you're not ready to take a test, getting out of town will be the best thing."

"Ok," she whispers.

He pulls her up into a hug. "Now go find that kid of mine and tell him to hurry up. We'll meet ya out there tonight."

"Thanks dad," she whispers as she hugs him back just as tight.

But don't you give up on yourself

She heads off to get Bradley, Mav calling Penny as he walks to Ice's office informing him of the new plans.

The weekend ends up being the perfect distraction. Grace enjoys watching the guys fly, and Bradley is even able to convince her to go up once. The view is gorgeous and she ends up really loving it. It helps that her husband is patient and gentle in the plane with her behind him. By Sunday night, she feels well rested and loved and taken care of.

Monday morning before work, Bradley finds her in the bathroom throwing up and dry heaving. He wets a wash cloth and rubs over her forehead and the back of her neck. "You ok?" He whispers when she leans back against him just breathing deep.

"I'm so nauseous," she whines.

Bradley softly hums as he keeps running the wash cloth over her. He just holds her, letting her breathe through it until the feeling passes. "Think maybe you should take a test now?"

She shakes her head no before he even finishes his question. "You know I had nausea spells before my period with the meds last time."

"Mmm. But I don't remember you ever puking."

"Could be a fluke," she argues.

"Ok baby. Ok," he concedes. He softly kisses her forehead before helping her up. He stays right there while she rinses her mouth and then helps her back to bed. "Just promise you'll take it easy at work if you still don't feel good."

"I will," she promises, pulling him down for a kiss before he's off to work.

Grace feels better after another hour of sleep, and she's convinced herself it's just a fluke when it only happens the once. By the next weekend, she's officially a week late, her temp is still elevated, and she's absolutely exhausted.

That fear that's inside you will lift, give it time

It all comes to a head Saturday over family dinner. The minute Grace walks through the door, the smell of her favorite sushi and hibachi take out sends her running to the guest bathroom off Mav and Ice's foyer. Bradley instantly follows leaving his Dads standing in the doorway confused.

Mav lights up when he puts the pieces together but Ice reigns him in. "Don't. We don't know anything."

"When has Grace ever gotten sick at the smell of food?"

"When she's had a stomach bug," Ice deadpans.

Mav sticks his tongue out, but they retreat to the living room to wait on the kids. They don't have to wait long, Bradley carrying a very pale Grace. He lays her on the couch, Grace covering her face with a whine.

"Might wanna put the food away," Bradley suggests, when Grace groans and just tries to breathe through it.

"You got it kiddo. What can we get her?"

"Got any sprite or crackers?"

Ice gives him a nod as they both retreat to the kitchen. Ice packs away the food for now as Mav brings back the requested items. He sits at Grace's feet, lifting them into his lap. Bradley's sitting with her head against his thighs, as he runs a wash cloth over her face still.

"Here sweetheart. Wanna try one of these?"

"Sprite first," Bradley answers already knowing which one she'll pick first. Mav hands it to him, and Bradley helps her take some slow slips.

"Sooooo, stomach bug?" Mav asks, causing Ice to let out a loud groan from the kitchen.

Bradley can't help but chuckle himself, knowing Mav has been dying to ask since Grace ran to the bathroom. "We don't know Dad," he finally says. "This is the second time this week it's happened though."

I've heard a story, a girl, she once told me

Ice rejoins them, sitting on the coffee table near the couch. He brushes some hair off Grace's forehead as she tries a cracker. "How you feeling sweetheart?"

"I'm ok. I'll be fine. I'm sure it's nothing."

Mav makes a wounded noise at that causing Bradley to giggle once more. "I think dad disagrees with you babe."

Grace sighs as she shakes her head at Bradley. She takes another cracker from Mav and works her way vertical, leaning her head over on Bradley's shoulder. "Think you're gonna have to hold that hope yourself Mav."

"I'll do it." He pulls her gently into a side hug. "You know I will. Good things are coming Grace. I know you're scared, but twice is a coincidence sweetheart."

"Not necessarily," she grumbles.

Mav kisses the side of her forehead as he shares a look with Ice. "Do you think you can eat honey?" Ice asks her.

"Not what yall ordered." She feels herself turning green at the thought of the take out.

"What do you think you can eat?" Mav asks her as she nibbles on another cracker.

"Grilled cheese," she shrugs. "I dunno. Food makes me wanna gag at the moment."

It's so hard for Mav not to remind her that might be a good sign, but he doesn't say a word. "Grilled cheeses are dad's specialty," Bradley smiles.

"What are yall gonna eat though?" she pouts. She feels terrible that she's ruined their dinner plans.

"Grilled cheeses are fine," Ice reassures. "Taking care of you is the most important."

She settles on the couch with Bradley while Ice and Mav go fix the sandwiches. She can hear them whispering in the kitchen, but she just can't let herself hope just yet. "Dad might be right," Bradley whispers as he rubs her back.

"I know... I just..."

"I know baby. I know." He softly kisses the top of her head as they just relax. They end up enjoying the night on the couch, eating the sandwiches and catching up from the week. Grace dozes off, exhausted, and they let her sleep as they keep talking quietly. Bradley promises Mav and Ice that he will try to get her to test soon. He gently scoops her up, and it's a testament to how tired she is that she doesn't even wake.

"B just take her to the guest room and you two stay."

"Ok, dad," Bradley smiles. He knows it'll make Mav feel better to have them under the roof for the night. He tucks Grace into the bed, and after hugging Mav and Ice, joins her. They sleep all through the night, and Bradley wakes before her. She's gorgeous and he loves watching her wake up.

He softly kisses her forehead; "Morning beautiful."

"We stayed the night?" she murmurs sleepily, taking in the room around them.

"Yea you fell asleep and dad suggested we stay. Seemed easier."

She rubs her eyes as she stretches. "Ok." She gives him a sweet smile, and pulls him down for a kiss. "Think they made breakfast?"

"Most definitely," he grins.

They get up, and Grace snags a hoodie, that she suspects Bradley had left here at some point. She throws her hair up in a bun, and once she feels mostly presentable, they head out to the kitchen. She squeezes Bradley's hand as she breathes deep at the smell of the coffee.

"Morning kiddos," Ice smiles, seeing them join them.

"Hey Pops, Dad."

"Morning," Grace tries to smile. "I'll...." She breaks for the bathroom unable to hold it back like she thought she'd be able to.

"Bradley..."

"I got it dad. Just... maybe no coffee," he shrugs. He finds Grace in their bathroom, breathing deep. He wets a wash cloth and kneels beside her.

"You ok?" he whispers.

She leans into his shoulder as she just breathes. "Yea... I just..." She sighs as he wraps his arms around her. "I dunno felt sick. I'm so nauseous."

Bradley softly rubs her back as he gently rocks her. "Baby..."

"I know," she whispers. She clings to him tighter. "I'm just scared."

"Me too," he whispers. "But we have to jump sometimes."

"Ok," she whispers. She gives him a small nod, and Bradley pulls her head off his chest to stare into her eyes.

"Yea?"

"Yea. Go get me one."

"What if I send dad?" he grins.

Grace chuckles softly. "Ok. Do that and you can stay with me."

Bradley kisses her forehead and then helps her back to the edge of the bed. He heads back to the kitchen, and he's not surprised when they both turn to him expectantly. "Who wants to run to the store for us?"

"I'll be right back," Mav says, already having his bike key in his pocket.

Ice pulls Bradley into a hug; he can see the fear and barely concealed excitement in his eyes. "It's going to be ok."

"Yea... Yea I know Pops."

He goes back to cuddle Grace until Mav gets back. She dozes a little, and prays her stomach will settle, sipping some Sprite. Mav's back within thirty minutes and he quietly knocks on the door. He passes Bradley the box with a small smile, and tells them they'll keep breakfast warm.

"Well... Here goes," Grace sighs, taking the box from Bradley's hand. He pulls her into a deep kiss, holding her tight.

"Whatever happens, we're going to be ok."

She gives him a shaky smile and then closes the door to the bathroom. She comes out a few minutes later and sits on the bed beside him. "Baby?"

"Gotta wait three minutes. I don't... I don't know that I can look at it B."

"That's ok. I can do it." They sit there watching the minutes tick by and when it passes five minutes, Grace finally pulls back from his arms. She gives him a nod, and then she starts twisting the hoodie sleeves around her hands. She's almost petrified of the results after all of this.

Bradley comes back holding the test, and he's doing his best, not to give it away. He knows his eyes have to be shining though. "B?"

He turns the test towards her, and she immediately closes her eyes. "Grace... baby just look."

"Bradley..."

"Please?"

She slowly opens her eyes, connecting with his smile first. She lets her eyes drop down to the test, and she can't move. She sits there in stunned silence just staring. "Grace?"

"Oh my god," she whispers, a hand dropping to her stomach. "We... It..."

That I would be happy again

Bradley drops the test and picks her up, Grace wrapping her arms and legs around him immediately. "Congrats Mommy," he whispers as he holds her tight.

She cries into his neck as she clings to him. "I can't believe it!"

"I know. I know. It worked though. Grace you're pregnant."

She cradles his face, wiping away his own tears, before she kisses him hard and deep. "Congrats Daddy," she whispers, more happy tears rolling down her cheeks.

The test is forgotten on the floor as Bradley carries her out to the kitchen. The coffee is gone, and Mav and Ice have moved to the living room, so Bradley keeps walking.

Mav sees the tears on Bradley's cheeks and squeezes Ice's hand before he gets up. "Oh kiddos..."

"Hi Grandad and Grandpops," Bradley says before Mav can finish his thought.

They both stare at him, letting the words sink in, as he sets Grace on her feet. "Wait... you just..."

"He did," Grace smiles. She jumps into Mav's arms giving him a tight hug. "You held onto that hope long enough Grandad."

"Come here," Ice says, pulling Bradley into a tight hug, before he and Mav switch kids. After more happy tears are shed, they ask Grace what she thinks she can stomach for breakfast. She gives them a grin, telling them some toast will be fine for now, as they both move back to the kitchen to fix their breakfast.

"I have a feeling I'm fixing to be doted on even more than I already was," she whispers with a giggle.

"Oh no doubt," Bradley agrees.

Despite their rough journey to making their little miracle baby, Grace ends up with a fairly easy pregnancy. They tell the rest of their family and friends after her twelve week appointment, and time seems to fly after that.

The nursery comes together rather easily after their gender reveal party. They kept it a surprise and Bradley got to fly the Mustang with a banner flying behind as the announcement; "Daddy's Little WingMAN coming soon." If Mav and Ice cried seeing it, well Grace just let them. It made for a cute video though.

The last ten weeks found her on bed rest, which she hated, but did without complaint for her little man. Ice and Mav constantly stopped by to keep her company or help out. If one of them wasn't available, usually one of the Flyboy uncles would stop by. She loved them dearly, but felt they were going overboard taking care of her, but she didn't really have the heart to tell them.

At thirty-eight weeks, Grace goes into labor. One phone call to Ice, and Bradley is off work and on his way to her, Mav riding along. They get to the hospital just as her water breaks, and ten hours later, Grace is holding their son. Bradley gets to cut the cord and then follows over to the side as they clean him up. He carries him back to Grace, cooing at him the whole time as the baby just watches him.

He settles on the side of her bed, gently placing the baby in her arms. The room empties quickly, leaving them in the quiet. "He's perfect," Grace whispers, her finger rubbing over his cheek.

"Like his mama," Bradley smiles. They cuddle their baby for close to an hour, Grace feeding him during that time. Once he's asleep, and they're for sure settled, Bradley leaves him with Grace to go get his dads.

"Come on. We got someone to meet you," he smiles, after they both hug him tight.

They walk into the room quietly, and Grace smiles at them from the bed. "We've got a sleepy boy who can't wait to meet his grandparents," she smiles.

Bradley gently takes him out of Grace's arms before turning to his dads. "Dad, Pops, we'd like to introduce you to your grandson, Mitchell Thomas Bradshaw."

Grace can't help but giggle, despite the video she's taking. They'd promised Slider they'd get the reaction on video, as they'd kept the name a secret from Mav and Ice.

"Oh Bradley! It's perfect," Mav whispers wiping his eyes. He gently takes the baby from Bradley, as Ice leans over his shoulder. The little boy yawns and wiggles in his grandfather's hold getting comfy. His eyes open and blink a few times at the two new faces and then he settles right back to sleep.

"You did amazing kiddos," Ice whispers, grinning over at them. Bradley had curled into the bed with Grace and she looked like she was about to doze off. "You two rest. We got him," Ice promises.

They settle onto the little couch, taking turns holding the sleeping baby, while Bradley lets Grace get some sleep. "I knew you'd come along and be just perfect," Mav whispers to Mitchell. "Grandad never gave up hope. And now you can be daddy's little wingman."

Mitchell Thomas had no idea just how loved he was going to be growing up. He had his parents, his grandads, and a whole slew of aunts and uncles that spoiled him rotten. The kid never wanted for anything, and with his daddy's big brown eyes, no one could hardly tell him no. He was his mama's boys and his daddy's wingman, completing their little family.

I heard from the heavens

#my writing #au of my au #bradley rooster bradshaw #grace spicy bradshaw #bradley rooster bradshaw x oc #bradley rooster bradshaw fic #spicy x roo #bradley x grace #pete maverick mitchell #tom iceman kazansky #icemav #icemav raised bradley #dad!mav #pops!ice #tw: infertility #infertility #infertility struggles

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flowersbloomuntiltheyrot · 1 year

Text

Flowers Bloom until they Rot and Fall Apart

Chapter 8 (PAST): All the Happiness you Lost

Another bit of happier past that sadly did not last, this time from Thomas' POV. ChoT Thomas inspired me for this as well as ChoT Eugenia, who is a gremlin. Enjoy!

Thomas sighed in defeat as he let out another coughing fit. He’d told Alastair he was recovering . He’d said he was sure he would feel well enough to meet him tonight. He cursed himself for making promises he now couldn’t keep. What would Alastair think? For a moment, Thomas considered going out anyway, but he did not think Alastair would like it much if Thomas spent the evening coughing over him.

Pneumonia, the doctor had concluded. An old friend he had not seen in many years. Why it had come back now of all times, Thomas did not know. Perhaps it was that time he and Lucie had gone swimming and Thomas had accidentally inhaled some dirty lake water after a cannonball.

Thomas had thought they were past this, but his family had gone all the way back to protecting sick little Tommy mode, even though he was not so little anymore. And not even that sick. Going out on a date might be a bit much, but he didn’t need the coddling, his mother making him tea every hour, nor Barbara stuffing him in blankets or Eugenia watching him like a hawk to see if he might attempt to leave his bedroom.

He took his phone from the desk beside his bed, he’d missed a text from Alastair.

Alastair: Are you feeling any better?

Thomas considered for a few moments before texting back.

Thomas: Not really. I have pneumonia apparently.

Alastair’s response was faster than Thomas could have anticipated.

Alastair: Oh that sucks, get well soon.

Thomas: Maybe we can move tonight’s date to my place? We could watch a movie or something. I’d like the company.

They’d planned to go out for dinner, had set this date two weeks ago before Thomas had gotten sick, and he regretted having to cancel on Alastair. This was a nice enough alternative, right? Alastair always seemed to like it here.

Alastair: If you’re sure you feel up for it. I’ll ask my mother.

After several minutes, Alastair texted again.

Alastair: I’ll be there around six, does that work?

Thomas: Sure! We usually eat around seven, I’ll let my mom know you’re joining.

Thomas got up from bed and changed into a clean shirt and pants. He was about to leave his bedroom,when Eugenia grabbed him by the collar of his shirt.

“Oh no, you don’t,” Eugenia said. “Back to bed with you.”

Thomas sighed. “I’m getting too old for this, Genie. Lying in bed all day has never done anyone any good. Also, even with pneumonia I’m stronger than you. You can’t stop me.”

“And where do you think you’re going, then?” Eugenia demanded. “Not on your date with Alastair. You always refuse to take proper rest when you’re sick. But if you won’t listen to me, I’ll call Alastair to come over and take care of you instead.”

This had to be difficult for Eugenia. While she was a gremlin who would stop at nothing to keep Thomas from going out while he was sick, she also championed his and Alastair’s relationship from the sidelines.

“I already asked him to come over,” Thomas said. “And I was about to tell mom so she’d make enough food for all of us. And I might as well rest in the living room.”

The reason Thomas had retreated to his bedroom to rest was that it offered a little more privacy, and when he was in there his parents did not bother him. Barbara and Eugenia not so much, Thomas didn’t think either of them had any clue what boundaries meant.

Thomas desperately hoped he could teach his sisters to knock before Alastair spent the night here for the first time. That sort of thing would have to happen here. Alastair wasn’t out to his parents yet and he preferred to meet at Thomas’ house. Besides, Thomas didn’t think Alastair’s father liked him very much. Thomas had the sense something was not quite right there, with Alastair’s father in particular, but he’d never been able to get Alastair to talk about it.

He found his mother outside in the garden, watering the blue roses. Those had always been among Thomas’ favorites.

“Tom, how are you feeling?”

“Could be better, could be worse,” Thomas said. “Alastair’s coming over for dinner tonight. We were going out, but since I’m not feeling well we’re going to watch a movie at home instead. Is that alright?”

“Sure. I’m making cauliflower soup tonight, there should be plenty.”

His mother always made more soup than they needed. If he’d been feeling better, he would have helped with the cooking, he loved to cook. Now, he returned inside to the living room, folding himself into a blanket on the couch. He’d asked Alastair to bring him his homework so he could at least keep up somewhat. While it was a bad idea to try magic when he could be interrupted any moment by a coughing fit, he should at least try to keep up with the theory. He needed to keep his grades up if he wanted to be accepted into a magical botany programme at university.

Thomas jumped up from the couch as the doorbell rang, but Eugenia had long beat him to the front gate. It always felt impractical, to have to open the front gate and then the front door, but there were too many deadly plants in the garden to not put a big fence around it.

Eugenia was talking loudly about how Thomas was still sick, how he’d been coughing all day and how Alastair should make sure he didn’t move too much from the couch. Thomas wondered if it was possible to die of embarrassment. Then he realized he’d gone out with no shoes on and was still wrapped in a Mickey Mouse blanket.

“Alastair. It’s good to see you.”

Alastair was dressed nicely in a black blouse and matching trousers, his hair styled to perfection as usual. Thomas didn’t think Alastair ever had bad hair days. It had grown out a little, he used to keep it short but now it had grown past his ears, falling in soft locks over his forehead. He looked at Thomas through the thick lashes circling his dark eyes. He often did that, eyes just a little closed, and Thomas couldn’t help but wonder if he did it on purpose. If Alastair knew how seductive it made him look.

“You’re not contagious, right?” Alastair asked.

“No,” Thomas said. “It’s a bacterial pneumonia, so you can’t catch it from me. I’m taking antibiotics for it.”

“That sounds serious,” Alastair said. “I’m sure the antibiotics will help, but my mother and I also made some remedies. They’re haoma based. This should lower the fever, this one helps with the coughing, and the last helps you feel less tired.”

“I think I could use all of those,” Thomas said.

Alastair explained how to dose the different remedies, and Thomas took a little bit of everything. There wasn’t an instant effect he could feel, but Alastair explained he would likely start feeling better after an hour or so. He should take his next dose the next morning.

“Don’t mind my sister too much,” Thomas said. “I’m not sure they know what boundaries are. Fortunately, it’s only Eugenia, though I’m sure Barbara would have been here if she didn’t have an evening shift.”

His oldest sister had moved in with her boyfriend Oliver not long ago, and while he’d had to get used to her not being around, he was glad she was not here while he was sick. It was just Eugenia today.

“I think she’s just protective,” Alastair said.

“She is, but do I look like I need protecting?”

Thomas barely finished his sentence before breaking into another coughing fit that took a good several minutes to stop.

“No offense, but right now you kind of do,” Alastair said. “The Mickey Mouse blanket looks cute on you though. Good thing I brought my mother’s remedies. You’ll feel better soon, I promise.”

Thomas sighed. The Mickey Mouse blanket had been one from his childhood, and it just so happened to be one of the bigger blankets in the house. The only one, in fact, that he could still wrap himself in.

“What movie did you have in mind?” Alastair asked.

@life-through-the-eyes-of @astriefer @justanormaldemon @ipromiseiwillwrite @a-dream-dirty-and-bruised @all-for-the-fanfiction @amchara @ddepressedbookworm @wagner-fell @imsoftforthomastair @queenlilith43 @stxr-thxif @lifewouldbebetteronmars @littlx-songbxrd @sheisbeautyweareworldass @ikissedsmithparker @bookswitchcraftandcats @jamesherondaleofficial @livingformyself @anarmorofwords @sapphic-in @fortheloveofthecarstairs @tessherongraystairs @thewarthatsavedmylife-blog @grace-lightwoodd @rainingpouringetc @thomastaircompassrose @kiwichaeng @yozinha-z @skirtsandsweaters @goodoldfashionednerd @have-a-holly-jolly-angstmas @who-beingloved-ispoor-blog @lightwoodsimp @americann-idiot @thomaslightwood @cant-think-of-anything

#Thomas Lightwood #Alastair Carstairs #Eugenia Lightwood #Sophie Lightwood #the last hours #fanfiction #thomastair

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doodles-and-memes · 2 years

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New thoughts about season 3 of The Cuphead Show:

How Cuphead will get to Hell, possible episode plots and more...

Please, bear with me people, I just can't keep it short ! Some of the things I wrote are probably obvious but I still needed to vent.

"Here goes nothing..."

I'll never get over that cliffhanger and the fact the season 2 trailer already showed us a short glimpse from next season (AND I SWEAR THERE HAS TO BE ONE). But thanks to that, we do know Cuphead will manage to summon the "Hellevator" and try to go save Mugman.

The question is: How ?

The most obvious answer would be to say thanks to the pitchfork. Judging by his sculpture of Mont Mugmore (Seriously, Mont Mugmore ?? Can we talk about it ? IT SENDS ME 💀This gesture was so sweet, random and funny at the same time 😭), Cuphead seems to be perfectly able to use it on his own after all. He is even great at it.

Unfortunately, we saw several times The Devil and Henchman could use the Hellevator without it, probably using some dark magic then. So it seems the pitchfork's powers are limited to flying, zapping, destroying and transforming, but not summoning things.

If not the pitchfork, then what ?

Now this is where I get frustrated: I perfectly remember someone shared an intriguing image here on Tumblr a few weeks ago, but I couldn't find it again. This image was a storyboard showing Cuphead drawing occult symbols on the floor with a chalk and the Hellevator appearing in front of him. If this comes from an official source, then it's very likely that Cuphead will perform a magic ritual to descend to Hell.

But who could teach him this ritual ?

As much as I'd like to see Elder Kettle getting involved in Mugman's rescuing mission in one way or another, it feels like Cuphead won't tell him anything. We all saw how the old guy was ready to fight in "Rats all folks" and several other occasions. I can't believe he wouldn't want to jump in the Hellevator with Cuphead to save his adoptive grandson and beat the Devil to a pulp ! Family just means everything to him. And yet, he doesn't appear in this short clip.

Two options: 1. He got kidnapped as well minutes after Mugman, which would then make Cup's nightmare premonitory.

2. Cuphead hides the truth from him, either to protect him or because he doesn't want to make him upset.

In any case, I really don't think the creators will introduce the peashooter weapon from the game in the series. Otherwise, with a power like this, Cuphead would look a lot more confident while entering the elevator, which is clearly not the case in the image above. With his sloppy shoulders and big worried eyes, he looks scared, unsure of himself, vulnerable and all alone.

What about Chalice ?

Maybe Chalice could be the one helping him set the ritual, but I'm not convinced at all. She's been the kind of person to "lay low" (her own words) when things go wrong. Even less than the police or an angry mob, she certainly wouldn't want to deal with the Devil. Unless she remembers how Mugman stood up for her and wants to do the same for him. ATM there's no confirmation she can take the form of the Legendary Chalice or if she has other mystical powers. If she follows Cuphead to hell, it seems she opted for her invisible ghost mode (not cool, Chalice !).

With Elder Kettle out of the big picture and Chalice being a bit unreliable, it's pretty safe to say there's only ONE character in the Inkwell Isles with enough wisdom and knowledge to help our poor boy reach Hell.

"A sage adviser, rumored to know all..."

Quadratus the great and wise !

I don't think there's a better time to ask for his advice than in such a desperate situation. Quadratus HAS to be the one teaching Cuphead the ritual to summon the elevator. He was the one giving the invisible yarn to Mugsy for him to knit the impenetrable sweater that would protect Cuphead from the Devil. The circle would be closed if Quadratus now helped Cuphead to save Mugman from Hell.

And here's the first difficulty Cuphead will face: just like Mugsy said, "[one] gotta make the water fizz so he'll appear."

The first time, the bros used Cuphead's sour fizzy jawbreaker. I'm pretty sure Mugsy then had some fizzy candies left in his pumpkin bucket, but OOPSIE- Cuphead ate them all in a moment of extreme temptation and never replaced what was stolen in the end 😀 (he is SO going to hate himself if it happens)

It can only mean one thing, my lil' buddies...

BACK TO SUGARLAND WITH A NEW EPISODE PLOT !!!

Consider this: Baroness von Bon Bon decides she'll forgive Cuphead for breaking her laws and allow him to take another fizzy jawbreaker ONLY if he delivers her from her ancient curse ! Remember she said it was "a story for another time". I never played the game, but Djimmy the Great could be involved with his wishes !

What if next season consists of Cuphead's quest to gather important artefacts for the ritual ? Forcing him to encounter more game bosses ? If the season goes like this, it will be an opportunity to develop Cuphead's character by making him realise how much more difficult everything is without his brother by his side and how much he took him for granted. Having no one to watch his back or help him will teach him to be more observant and careful, and how it can be hard and exhausting. Being worried for Mugsy will also make him understand better his brother's own feelings and protectiveness. After calling him "lame and boring" several times in season 2, something has to make him acknowledge how capable, awesome and brave his little bro has been and actually is, despite all his fears and worries. THEY NEED TO RELATE MORE !

Finally, I want to see Cuphead ask Quadratus how Mugman even heard about him in the first place. And I want Quadratus to reveal by some sort of flashbacks that his little brother was so worried about the whole "owing-the-Devil-his-soul" situation he couldn't find sleep and spent nights after nights searching in books to find a solution and protect him. So Cuphead will finally understand how much it affected Mugsy and how much he always cared for him.

We stan this precious little cautious bookworm here 🥺

Mugman has always been there for Cuphead when he needed it, and now it's Cuphead's turn to be there for him as well.

Last little idea: Remember the impenetrable sweater was effective thanks to Cups and Mugs brotherly love ? Well, you know what else has been crafted with love by Mugman ? The tandem bike ! Quadratus may have advised Cuphead to take the tandem bike with him to Hell because it will be useful for both brothers (helping them to reconcile ? To escape from hell through the big gate ?).

If you've read this far, thank you and congrats people ! I didn't think my nonsense could interest anybody. I don't know what to give you as a reward, so have this stupid song:

#the cuphead show #cuphead #mugman #I live for the cupbros being wholesome #and Cuphead appreciating his brother's worth #elder kettle #legendary chalice #baroness von bon bon #theory #I guess my brain basically only has two modes: OVERTHINK and MEMES #all aboard the angst train

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dragongodryss · 2 months

Text

Memories of the past, Joys of the present and Dreams of the future

There wasn't much Gajeel missed about the days before he had joined Fairy Tail. In fact, it was only one thing. Skateboarding. He had been pretty damn good at it too, before he had developed motion sickness.

He wondered if the twins would grow up to enjoy it as much as he had, or if they would like different things entirely. The had only been born about six months ago, but he loved them with all his heart, and it sucked that he couldn't share this with them.

"What wrong Gajeel? Are twins okay? Are you okay?" Levy asked gently.

"Yeah. Just thinking."

"Don't hurt yourself." She joked before getting serious "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Not really. There's not much I can do about it anyway." He had more important things to worry about, like taking care of his kids, or his upcoming wedding. Or even the fact that he and Levy didn't really have time to do anything together anymore. When one went on a job, the other stayed home with the kids. His guildmates helped out sometimes, sure, but he could probably count the amount of people he fully trusted to take care of two babies on his hands. Bisca and Alzack. Maybe Mira or Freed. Maybe. No, Mirajane wasn't a good influence. Lisanna? He didn't really know her, but she seemed sensible. Lucy helped sometimes, but she didn't have much experience with babies and she had her own life. Rogue was the third best choice, after Bisca and Alzack, the fact that his frog was still alive was a testament to that. He had watched his niece and nephew on a couple of occasions, but he was helping Sting with Sabertooth.

On his way back from a job with Jet, Droy and Lily, he noticed a skate park. Several people were skateboarding there, having the time of their lives. Blasted motion sickness. That was also why they were walking.

He didn't know why the grief over not being to go skateboarding anymore was hitting him now. Was it because he would never be able to share the joy with the twins? He tried to conceal it from Levy. They both had bigger things to worry about. Or so he had thought.

It took Levy two weeks to drag Rogue into it. Gajeel, half asleep on a Sunday morning, could hear them through the floor.

"He won't tell me what's wrong, and Lily has no idea either. Whatever it is is clearly bugging him and it's not going away. Please just try." Levy was clearly at her wits' end. Gajeel hadn't wanted to worry her. He got up and got dressed. He needed to come clean.

"Alright, but if he hasn't told you or Lily, he probably won't tell me either." Rogue agreed.

"Fro thinks so too!"

Gajeel came downstairs.

"Morning." He said, not sure where to start.

"You heard us didn't you?" Lily stated more than asked.

"Yeah. Didn't wanna worry you. It's not a big deal. But I guess it's too late for that."

"What happened?" Levy asked.

"It's stupid. I used to really like skateboarding, but then my motion sickness, well, happened, and I couldn't do it anymore. Then a couple of weeks ago, I realized I'd never be able to teach the twins how to skate, even if they were interested."

"That's not stupid. I remember you doing it all the time. Of course you'd be upset about it." Rogue said.

Levy thought for a moment.

"Say, Gajeel? Did Wendy ever use Troia on you?" Levy asked.

"Nah, what's the point? It'll stop working anyway."

"Yeah, if you overuse it. Using it once or twice a year probably isn't going to do that. Or if you want to be sure you get to skate with the twins, once every two years. But I think once a year would probably be fine." Levy explained. "So you don't forget. You could even teach us, as practice."

Gajeel froze. Was she suggesting what he thought she was?

"Sounds fun. All we need are some skateboards. You and Frosch coming too, Rogue?" Lily asked.

"If you'll have us." Rogue smiled.

"Fro thinks so too."

"You mean now?" Gajeel asked.

"No, we need to find someone to watch the twins and rent some skateboards. And ask Wendy to cast the spell on you two." Levy reminded him. "Next week. Should we go rent the boards on Saturday?"

"Hey, little blue! You got a minute?" Gajeel asked a couple of days later.

"Yes Gajeel? What's up?"

"Me, Lev, Rogue and the cats are going skateboarding on Sunday. Could you cast Troia on us and do you want to join us?" He asked.

"I'd love to come, but I don't think that spell will work on me. I can definitely cast it on you two though." Wendy said, a little sad.

"My bad, kid. Wanna go get ice-cream with us afterwards?" Gajeel frantically tried to cheer her up.

"Yep. See you on Sunday!" It had worked. Gajeel doubted he would have any trouble convincing the rest to get ice-cream.

Meanwhile, Levy had convinced Alzack and Bisca to watch the twins for the afternoon, so that was taken care of.

The group looked around the shop for skateboards, in the for hire section.

"No, Rogue. That skateboard is too small. No, Rogue, I don't care if it has frogs on it, you're going to get hurt." Gajeel insisted. "And before you ask, it's far too big for Frosch."

There was a clatter as the exceed in question launched herself into a stack of skateboards while riding a penny-board.

"Frosch, are you alright?" Rogue dashed over to rescue her.

"No testing the boards inside the shop!" The salesman scolded.

"Don't you think she's learned her lesson? Hasn't she suffered enough?" Rogue asked, clutching Frosch to his chest. Gajeel walked over to make sure Rogue didn't get them kicked out or arrested. But since the exceed was safe in his arms, Gajeel doubted it would come to that.

"Fro thinks Fro's going to fly."

Babysitting was hard. At least Levy and Lily had found boards that wouldn't cause them to fall flat on their faces. The idiot he was trying to wrangle, however, was still wistfully looking at the frog board.

"For the last time, Rogue-"

"Wait, hear me out! I can use my magic if I fall off, so it's fine." Rogue suggested.

"You'll be doing that anyway. Come on, there are loads of cool boards."

"Listen to Gajeel, Rogue, he knows what he's doing. Look, that one has a tiger on it!" Levy thankfully jumped in. It was nice that Rogue finally got to act like a kid, he'd definitely earned it, but when it was putting him in harms way, it got exhausting quickly.

"Yeah, it's pretty cool too. What do you think, Frosch?" Rogue agreed. Luckily, that board was the right size. He wasn't sure what he would have done if it wasn't.

"Fro likes it. It's pink and green, like Fro!"

It had been agreed that Rogue and Frosch would spend the night over at Gajeel and Levy's so they wouldn't have to travel all the way from Gazania. It was honestly impressive how much more responsible Rogue became the second he was around the twins, or literally anyone less responsible than him.

Right now, Gajeel was holding his children while Rogue cooked and Lily set the table. Levy was reading a fairy tale aloud to Frosch and the twins.

"Rogue, you'd better not be making fire in there! It'll take Salamander fifteen minutes to get here, even if he picks up his damn lacrima." Gajeel said when he smelled a faint burning smell. He didn't need to shout, Rogue wasn't deaf.

"It's fine, it's under control. And Natsu and Sting owe me 5'000 jewel now." Rogue said smugly from the kitchen.

"Why, did you bet on who could set my kitchen on fire first?" Gajeel asked.

"No, Sting and Natsu bet on who could set water on fire first, and before you ask, no, I don't know why, and I said I would because I'm sick and tired of having to turn off the fire alarm. He set everything except the water on fire."

"You set water on fire! How?"

"It's really easy, do you want to see?"

"No! Not in my house."

Levy had stopped reading, giving Gajeel a concerned look.

"No, it's fine. He's not going to set our house on fire." Gajeel reassured her.

Dinner was served soon after, surprisingly unburnt. It was spaghetti and meatballs. And chocolate cake.

"Okay, but how did you set the water on fire?" Levy finally asked.

"Oh, there was oil in the pasta water, so I set that on fire. Then I put the lid on it to put it out." Rogue explained. Gajeel couldn't say he hadn't done stupider things with less care. At least Rogue understood how to put out an oil fire.

"It was a good idea, but could you not do that in our house in the future?" Levy requested.

"Yeah, sorry. I really should have asked first." "Fro thinks so too."

Rogue looked even guiltier than before, and Gajeel knew he wouldn't do it again.

"It was a pretty neat trick. I'll take the twins to Saber and you can show them there." Gajeel suggested.

"Do you want them to turn out like Natsu?" Lily asked.

"Do they owe you 5'000 jewel each or together?" Gajeel changed the subject.

"Each. They really didn't think I could do it."

"Wow. You should take bets from them more often." Gajeel said. Levy shot him a warning glare, which probably meant he was being a bad influence. Scratch that, he definitely was.

"Guess it pays to be the smartest idiot in the room." Rogue joked.

"Don't do anything stupid. Your reputation as the smartest Dragonslayer is in danger." Lily warned him. "Wendy'll come for your title, and if you keep listening to Natsu and Sting, so will Gajeel."

"Terrifying. I'll be careful." Rogue promised.

It was finally the day. Gajeel hadn't realized how excited he had been until the time had come. Wendy had cast her spell on them and everyone was ready to go.

"Helmets, everyone." Levy reminded them. Rogue was already wearing his, so the comment was directed at him and Lily, who was in his combat form.

"Fro doesn't need a helmet." Frosch proclaimed. Gajeel knew it was because she had opted out of actually skateboarding, but there also wasn't much brain to damage. The same could be said of him though, so he shut up about it.

As soon as his helmet was on, Gajeel sped off. He didn't know the names of most of the moves he did, since he'd rarely spoken to anyone about skating. But he jumped all of the ramps just fine. He had missed this so much, and now he could do it again. Out of practice, he fumbled the landing, landing on his hands and knees.

"Are you alright?"

"Yep. Happens to the best of us. What's important is to get right back up."

The first hour was fairly slow, with the other three trying to get comfortable with the boards. Rogue and Levy picked it up surprisingly quick, at least on flat ground. Lily struggled a bit, but Gajeel himself hadn't become an expert overnight. He taught them how to do an Ollie next, in part because it was fairly simple, but mostly because it was the only move he could name.

Levy took a while to position her feet correctly and decided to take a break to properly observe the difference between what Gajeel was doing and what the others were doing after falling down half a dozen times.

Rogue fell into his shadow the first few times, but perhaps as a result of that safety net, he was braver about it than he would have been otherwise. He was the first to master it among Gajeel's students. Once Rogue had succeeded, Levy decided she had observed enough and tried again. She had improved considerably, and Gajeel was once again impressed by how far taking a step back and watching had gotten her.

Lily, despite being otherwise physically capable, seemed to have some trouble grasping it. Remembering how Rogue had used his shadow, Gajeel led him to the lawn.

"Try practicing here. The board won't slip so much and the landing will be softer." He suggested. After a few more tries, during which Rogue and Levy practiced turning, Lily had managed to do an Ollie. It wasn't the most magnificent one Gajeel had ever seen, but it was an Ollie.

"Do you want to try on the concrete again?" Gajeel asked. Lily grinned.

"Of course." He fell a few more times, but he was succeeding more and more often. Gajeel patted him on the shoulder, concratulating him on his improvement.

He left Lily to practice a bit longer to check on the other two. Rogue had figured out how to spin mid-air, though he fumbles the landing and fell into his shadow, while Levy was doing laps around the park. and Frosch flew back and forth between them. He waved her over and walked over to Rogue. Levy drove over and tried to stop, but she miscalculated and crashed into Gajeel, who caught her. F

"Sorry!" She squeaked. Gajeel chuckled.

"Nah, don't worry. You're doing great. You both are." He praised them, and both grinned. "If you want to try some of the ramps, I think you can pull it off. Just be careful."

Rogue and Frosch sped off to try out the ramps, while Levy went with him to check on Lily.

"Lily and I can race each other around the park, if you want to do some ramps." Levy suggested.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, you're the one that wanted to skate, it would be a shame if you didn't." Levy insisted, Lily nodding in agreement.

Gajeel smiled and took off, joining Rogue on the half pipe.

"Hey punk! Watch this!" He bragged, speeding up the pipe. He made it to the top and flipped over, flying through the air. The familiar rush of feeling the wind in his hair and nothing but the board under his feet washer over him. He landed at the top of the opposite side and skated down, coming to a stop.

"Wow! That's awesome!" Rogue cheered, while Frosch flew in circles around both of them.

"Gajeel flew like Fro! Like Fro!" The exceed laughed.

"Can I try?"

"Normally, I'd say no, but with your magic, the worst that could happen is that you'd look stupid."

Rogue smiled at that and skated to the top of the half-pipe, standing at the top. That was how Gajeel had started off too. He drove down at full speed and came up on the other side, flying straight into the air and straight back down onto the pipe before rolling back to the side where he started and rolling down again, stumbling to a halt at the bottom, without the help of his magic, Gajeel noted.

"Nailed it." Rogue said flatly.

"Good job. Not what you were aiming for, but it's still a solid trick."

"Fro thinks so too!"

Gajeel went to the other ramps to practice, leaving Rogue to practice his flips. He cleared the obstacle courses a few times before turning to watch Lily and Levy race. Lily was a little clumsy in his driving, but was maintaining decent speed, to Gajeel's pride. Levy, meanwhile, was matching him elegantly. A small rock, maybe the size of Gajeel's fist was in her way, but instead of swerving to avoid it, she jumped over it. He smiled as he heard her laugh aloud and sped off to join them. Lily fell back as he approached, granting them some time alone.

"Nice jump, shrimp! Hard to believe it's your first time."

"Thanks. It's hard to believe I'm finally skating." Levy admitted.

"Huh? You've thought about skating before?"

"Yeah. I've always wanted to learn, but there was something else that came first every time. It's more fun than I expected, you know." Levy's smile could have blinded Gajeel then and there.

"Glad to hear it. Do you want to try on of the obstacle courses with me?"

"Sure do!"

Gajeel led her to the simplest one, two bars, followed by a rise and then a small ramp with a stream the size of his forearm between it and the landing space. The whole park was much fancier that the one in Oak Town had been.

Gajeel did a double Ollie over the bars and casually drove over the rise, winking at Levy as he passed her. Then, to show off a bit, he did a flip over the ramp, which easily cleared the stream.

"How was that, Lev? You think you can do the course?" Gajeel asked. Levy grinned confidently.

"Watch me."

She cleared the bars, a little awkwardly, Gajeel admitted, but she stuck both landings. Then she turned her skateboard around to face him before going over the rise, where she winked at him. Turning to look ahead, she faced the ramp, flying into the air before hitting the ground and skidding to a halt. She almost fell over, but kept her balance and gave him a thumbs up, which he returned. When he placed his foot on the board, a now familiar wave of motion sickness washed over him. He picked the board up and walked over to Levy instead.

"Did the spell wear off?" She asked.

"Yeah. Guess it's time to get little blue the ice-cream I promised her." Gajeel confirmed.

They entered the cafe Wendy had chosen about an hour later, after dropping the skateboards off at Gajeel and Levy's house.

"Thanks kid. Today was great." Gajeel told Wendy. He looked at everyone. "I'm paying, buy whatever you want."

Lily was thrilled to learn that the shop had kiwi ice-cream as a temporary addition to the menu, and Wendy admitted that that was what made her choose the shop over the other one she was considering. Levy, out of curiosity, had a scoop of kiwi ice-cream and a scoop of vanilla. Gajeel mixed chocolate and raspberry. Frosch chose one scoop of bubblegum. Wendy had white chocolate, strawberry and bubblegum, which Gajeel doubted would mix well. Rogue chose white chocolate and mint-chocolate chip.

"Natsu set Lucy's house on fire today." Wendy told them mid meal.

"Really? What happened?" Levy asked. Gajeel and Rogue exchanged looks.

"Apparently, he was trying to burn water. Happy banned him from trying it at his house." Wendy seemed thoroughly confused. Levy looked at Rogue, who cleared his throat.

"Tell him Sting and I are inviting him to dinner in two days. Tell him to bring 5'000 jewel." He asked her.

"Sure, but why?"

"You'll see. Can the squirt and I come too?" Gajeel asked. Rogue agreed.

"Tell me how it goes." Levy asked.

"Don't you want to come too?" Rogue invited her.

"Nah. I'm going to stay with the twins."

"Lily?"

"I'm good. Maybe Levy and I can finally finish that rom-com we were watching."

"Hello, welcome to our house!" Lector greeted Gajeel, Salamander and Wendy.

"Rogue! They're here!" Sting called out excitedly, rushing to the door. "Natsu, did you do it yet? The water thing."

"...No." Salamander admitted reluctantly.

"Me neither. Don't think Rogue has either. Don't think he really tried."

"I'll figure it out first!" Salamander declared. Gajeel suppressed a grin. Once he and Sting had gone off to see Rogue, Gajeel turned to Wendy.

"Did he bring the 5'000 jewel?"

"I made sure. But why?"

"He's about to lose a bet. Surprised he didn't guess."

The six of them sat at the kitchen table while Rogue brought the food. Gajeel noted the soot stains that marked the area around the stove. It was spaghetti again.

Rogue brought the pasta water over, earning him some questioning looks from everyone except Gajeel and Frosch. He pulled out a lighter and turned it on, trailing it over the oily water. It caught fire instantly, burning brightly. Salamander, Sting, Wendy and Lector gasped.

"5'000 jewel please, gentlemen." Rogue requested as Salamander ate the fire. Salamander looked upset at losing the bet, but Sting stared at Rogue in awestruck shock. Gajeel hoped he didn't look like that whenever Levy said something smart. Sting went over to grab his wallet to hand Rogue his winnings, and Gajeel nudged Salamander to do the same. At Rogue's insistence, they washed their hands afterwards before tucking in.

This was lining up to be one of the best weeks ever.

#gajeel redfox #rogue cheney #levy mcgarden #wendy marvell #panther lily #Frosch #fairy tail #sting eucliffe #natsu dragneel #gajevy #stingue if you squint #sting and natsu are a bad influence #skater boy gajeel #bets #skateboarding #fluff #gajeel practices parenting on Rogue and Wendy #mentions of kiwi ice-cream

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deafeningdonutshark · 7 months

Text

My first album, Feeding Time, and the story behind it

By Victoria Kerr

11/6/2023

People say a joke that needs to be explained is a bad one. That might be the same with albums. But here goes anyway.

Back in 2014, I was just learning how to play guitar. I was finally teaching myself after five years of having it but being too scared to make any sort of valiant effort at learning it. It had been a dream of mine to be a singer since I was a kid, and I started writing lyrics, sometimes with a melody, sometimes not, when I was nine. As I got older, I knew I would need to learn an instrument if I wanted to write songs for real. Guitar seemed like a good option.

I started writing songs right away as I learned, even though I was a guitar newbie who knew just a few chords. I remember getting so frustrated and thinking on several occasions, “How the hell do people strum and sing at the same time?!” And then I would go weeks without playing, disgusted with myself and thinking my guitar hated me.

The other thing to know that would probably put this more in context is that I’m a shy person, and at that time in particular, I could barely look myself in the mirror let alone anyone else. I felt delusional thinking I could ever have the confidence to actually get on a stage and perform for people or even just put my stuff online. I had so much self-loathing that, while I might have been excited for a few moments, maybe a day, after writing a song, that would be followed by absolute contempt for it, thinking that there’s no way I could ever create something good or interesting or valuable.

But in 2015, in one of my moments of grand delusion, after practicing for about a year and accumulating a small collection of songs recorded on my iPod (albeit shakily played and sung and hitting bum notes left and right), I got excited feeling like I had enough for an album. I titled it Feeding Time after one of the songs and arranged them in the order I wanted to tell the story and put together an interpretation of what I wanted for the front and back covers (done in Microsoft Paint, see below). I actually knew a graphic designer/visual artist at the time, and we went to lunch together and I asked if he could help me with the cover saying, “I want like a picture of a woman’s naked body that’s been hollowed out so the skin is see-through and it’s kind of decomposing and it’s being used as an aquarium with fish swimming in it and seaweed and algae and stuff.” He stared at me for a few seconds and then said, “I don’t get it,” and I said, “Oh never mind!” and we never spoke of it again.

I thought I was ready back then…but then the doubt crept back in. And I felt it wasn’t good enough and that I needed to keep practicing and trying to write. Which I did. But always with that crippled limb of fear slowing me down.

Over the past few years, I’ve done a lot of work on myself, trying to understand the ways I’d been conditioned by the world around me, trying to unlearn the values and ways of being that were never really mine, trying to get back to who I really am and live as a whole being. A being that can unconditionally love. And music was always in my mind with that. I would think, “Maybe one day I can get to a place where I feel okay enough with myself to do it.”

So here we are now. I’ve been working on a new set of songs that I’m excited about. And then a few days ago, “Nothing But Water” popped into my head. I had not listened to that song in years. Like others on this album, it was a song where I had been practicing chords and then started singing over them, stopped so I could grab my iPod, hit record, and then just let whatever needed to come out come out. One of the thoughts that held me back eight years ago was, “Can a four-minute musing over two or three chords even be considered a song?” But then there I was a few days ago, singing it to myself out of nowhere, as if it was someone else’s. And I knew, it was a song.

Listening to this album now, I love it. I loved it back then. I feel like some of my biggest influences, the people who I’ve spent so many hours listening to that I have absorbed their very essence into mine — Cat Power and Lana Del Rey and Frank Black and, dare I say, even Mr. Cobain — to name a few, are definitely there, which makes me happy. I thought about re-recording the songs to play them better, sing them better. But I kind of like how raw they are. I like that my 23/24-year-old voice is the one singing them. And I like what I’m saying in them. It’s the truth of the way I felt about things at the time. And still sometimes feel now. And my silly jokes in them still make me laugh — so do the bits of TV you can hear because I would turn the volume way up because I’d rather my neighbors in the apartment complex hear a loud TV than me playing. I also like that you can hear my dog Kirby’s collar jingling in the background of some of them. He’s my little percussionist.

Okay, okay enough yammering — without further ado, here is Feeding Time. Thank you for reading and thank you for listening and thank you for existing!

Update: I uploaded the wrong recording of Reluctant Muse! I think this is the first one I had, but Kirby is sadly not on it. I added the take I did where you can hear him rocking out!

There’s one more thing I want to add about the subject matter of these songs. Three men appear on this album. One of them is my dad. He left the family when I was eight. And, four years before making this, we found out he had died the year before. It was a strange feeling because we hadn’t seen him in so long. So it was kind of like, oh okay, I guess we just keep moving on with life. We didn’t know how to grieve it. I think so often we as people stuff our feelings down when they’re in the in-between, hard-to-define places.

There have been times I’ve felt like I was sleepwalking through my life. Listening to these songs back, now I know I wasn’t sleepwalking. I was just processing things in my own way, in my own time.

#music #indie music #new music #experimental #folk rock #alternative #folk grunge #folk punk

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phoenixrising0308 · 2 years

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Prince Charming (2): Glitter in the air

#Day 16 Glitter

A/N: set 4 years after “And along came Polly” and in an open match world. Liam is a teacher (who isn’t open about his royalty status) Liam’s mother’s name is Lily.}

Pencil Chronicle Theme(s): Cinnamon roll hero- Bonus trope collection Pencil Chronicle Prompt(s): “I feel God in this chili tonight.” and “I am Beyoncé, always.” - The Office collection “I like good strong words that mean something.” - Little Women Collection Additional Prompt(s) - #’s 12,13,31 and Location Prompts #67 and #26

Disclaimer

Words according to this blogger: Dulce means sweet in Spanish.

Triggers: None

Chapter Song inspiration: Glitter in the air - P!nk

Word count: 4,000 *As always, forgive my typos and grammatical errors.*

Wednesday

Chili’s

He took a sip from his drink and slammed the table, and said, “WHOA! I feel God in this chili tonight.” and he burped loudly, “Are you having a great time?”

Jessica looked at her match date and kicked herself for being talked into the “Bargain Bin Match Bogo sale.” The Matchmaking service called “Eros 2.0” was owned by former interns of the disbanded ‘Eros’ matchmaking service; the rumor was they were always offering matches at half the price of their competitors by using discontinued or destroyed matches whose parts were broken down and put in other matches to repurpose for sale. Tonight’s candidate for Eros 2.0 was candidate #348 and went by the name Dames Elvin Rosario’s.

Jessica found him absolutely obnoxious, but she was also upset that he was designed based on her preferences. She asked for a friendly and quiet place that offered Chilean sea bass on their menu; instead, she found herself at a loud restaurant with several TVs with the occasional “Happy Birthday song from the Chili’s crew.” And instead of Chilean Sea Bass, she found Chili’s original Chili on the menu.

The waitress walked over and handed Dames the bill. He said, “Jess, you got this, right? I forgot my wallet, and it’s not payday.”

Jessica sighed. “Sure.” ‘How many frogs do you have to kiss…like he isn’t even like a real guy. Fix your life, Jess; just fix it. I’m getting a refund.’

“You’re driving me home, right? I want to say keep the windows up. You know stomach ain’t right.”

4 blocks away … Michael's craft store

His basket was full, but there was something he was looking for. He needed pink glitter. Pink was the class color this month. Tomorrow he would have all his students make a class art submission for ‘World Art Day’ It was also a monthly class pet day. He knew he would regret having to give his Corgi Chance five doggie baths to get the glitter off him but seeing their smiling faces would be all he needed for him to make it worth it.

Liam Rhys was everything you could imagine a Pre-K teacher to be kind, patient, and understanding. He gave up his Central Park Penthouse in favor of being closer to his job and just closed on a Williamsburg Brownstone two months ago. Riding his bike around the neighborhood, he discovered a tiny little bakery called ‘Dulce’ he loved some of the Latin inspired flavors; it reminded him of places he went to when he studied abroad in college he spoke the language fluently, and every summer for the last four years he volunteered at privately funded foundation called ‘Teach beyond limits where he traveled to help support other schools summer enrichment programs. Last summer, he spent time in Puerto Rico. He decided to spend Christmas break with a few friends and a local Christmas eggnog drink called Cocoquito. When he saw a twinkie inspired by it in the window, he had to try it.

Now, this little bakery would be his go-to place once a week on Fridays. He would stop in, and he would treat himself to a Dulce de leche Apple Turnover. As it turns out, the owner was the mother of Chance’s favorite student, Paloma Bianca Walker. Her classmates would call her Polly. Last week, her mother Emily asked a few personal questions he was happy to answer, thinking that she wanted to know a loyal customer better. Still, he also made sure to be vague for a few personal reasons as well as professional.

Friday

Jessica spent the night crying, upset that apparently Riley Brooks was now starting a family with her former fiancé and former FDNY Paramedic turned Physical Therapist, Rafael Aveiro showed up on her people you might know feed, and she combed through his pictures. They seemed happy; meanwhile, Jessica was stuck. She didn’t want him back, but she questioned why karma hadn’t gotten to him; four years later, she was still alone and still very much wanting to share her life with someone but pretended not to care. April 16th was her deceased parents’ wedding anniversary, and being lonely hit her the hardest, so she made sure to take off.

Jessica was given strict orders by Drake to be at ‘Dulce’ at 7:45 AM to take Polly to school. He needed to be at one police plaza for a meeting, and Emily was opening up the bakery. It was now 8:10 AM., and Polly started at 8:30AM.

Jessica finally made it double-parked her car.

“Titi (Aunt) Jessie!”

“Hey there, my beautiful girl.”

Polly looked excited as she said, “Chance day.”

“Who is Chance?”

“Chance is the class pet! He’s a Corgi”

“Oh, that’s fun!” Jessica replied.

Emily said, “But thanks for doing this for us, Jessica.”

“No problem. I’m off; Drake is handling city hall; he knows I hate working on this day. Besides, you have the bakery. And Sue across the street, that rotten recipe stealing-”

Emily cut Jessica off and said, “PIKACHU. Sue is a recipe stealing Pikachu.”

“Yeh, she’s a Pikachu, alright.”

Emily walked over and said, “Chance is waiting!” Emily followed and took a look at Jessica’s outfit choice.

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re a lovable mess.” Emily quickly took the pen out of Jessica’s hair, and it fell down below her shoulders. “You never know. Take off that purple sweater.” Emily mumbled before saying, “Paloma, take Titi Jessie’s sweater.”

Polly took Jessica’s sweater.

“Maybe you will bump into Prince Charming in a parking lot?”

Jessica scoffed, “Prince Charming… is stuck in traffic.”

Inside Jessica’s Escalade

Jessica and Polly were singing the little mermaid score as she got ready to merge into the lane to give the go-ahead from the other. Suddenly, the car sped up and cut them off, as Jessica was about to merge.

She honked the horn and pulled her window down, “YOU FUCKING FUCK FACE ASSHOLE! You couldn’t wait for your fucken turn!”

“Oh, bad, bad words.”

“Oh, POLLY, well, sometimes when you don’t wait your turn, someone has to tell you didn’t do the right thing, and Mr. The Honda Accord was really mean. Maybe and just maybe he won’t do that again because it um… It hurt my feelings, and I yelled.” Jessica tried rationalizing as the Honda drove slower than molasses in front of them.

“OH MY GOD, FUCKING FUCK FACE ASSHOLE! ! Why cut in front of my car if you’re going to move like a damn tourist,” Jessica growled before clearing her throat. “Sorry, he hurt my feelings again.”

Polly looked intrigued, “Ooh, okay.” She replied as they drove.

‘FUCK, I’m gonna get so much shit over being late. They gave me these official plates for my personal vehicle for a reason.’ Jessica put her NYPD Police lights on her dashboard, turned on her sirens, and then got on her speaker.

“This is an official Police vehicle giving a lawful order to yield right of way to the Ford Escalade behind you.”

Most Holy Trinity Elementary - Pre-K: Room 1

Polly could barely contain her excitement as they all lined up to see Chance. The 4-year-old thought it was the best thing ever that she had been looking forward to all week. Just when it was almost her turn, another preschooler cut her off in line.

“Hey!”

The boy stuck his tongue out at her, and Polly felt her anger boiling. ‘

‘Hurt my feelings.’

“YOU FUCKING FUCK FACE ASSHOLE!”

Every student gasped, and Liam blinked in surprise. “Polly. That is not a nice word. Well, that whole sentence was unkind.” He told her as she crossed her arms with a pout.

“Gavin was mean!”

Liam nodded and crouched down to both their levels. “Gavin, you have to wait your turn. That is not fair or nice. Polly, just because our feelings are hurt doesn’t mean we can use bad words like that to hurt other people, Okay? Next time, come get me.”

Both kids looked to the ground, “Sorry…”

“Now, let’s sing a song about our feelings, okay?”

Liam walked over to his mother’s guitar and picked it up, and began to play a few cords as he softly sang to his class as they waited for their turns to play with Chance.

Liam asked Polly privately.” Now, where did you hear that word from?”

Polly didn’t even think twice. “Titi Jess.”

“Thank you, Polly.”

Afternoon dismissal

“Hi, I’m here to pick up Paloma Walker.”

The secretary said, “Oh, she is with her teacher. They are in Prek-4, room one. It’s down the hall to your left.”

Jessica walked down the hall with her purple sweater. ‘I don’t care if it’s homey. It’s comfortable.’ The minute she walked in and saw him, she felt a faint blush warm her cheeks. ‘Polly’s teacher looks like that!? OMG, the glasses and suspenders well bend me over a desk.’ Jessica thought as the tall, blonde, handsome, big-built man with blue eyes looked played with Polly and Chance. Jessica ran into the hallway and took off the sweater and returned and shoved the ugly sweater behind herself on a desk.

Liam seemed to stare at her longer than intended before he shook himself and smiled. He extended his hand, “Are you, Mrs. Jessica Garcia?” ‘Please be a Miss.’ He secretly thought.

Jessica took a sweeping look at Liam and bit her lip. ‘My name is Jessica, but you can call me yours.’

“Uh, yeah!… Well, it’s Miss” She tried leveling her voice, “I’m Polly’s Aunt. Godmother. A close friend of her parents. Whatever you want to call it.” She gave a nervous laugh as she rambled.

Liam extended his hand and she took it.

‘God, you’re hands are huge. This could only mean one thing: you have a big crayon, and I would love to scribble with you. ALL. NIGHT. LONG. Wipe the smirk off your face.’ She cursed inwardly. She smiled.

Liam held her hand longer than a typical handshake. ‘I am, covered in pink glitter. My— God. You are beautiful; I would tell you every morning if you woke up next to me. Wait, I’m still holding your hand. Liam let it go.’ He released her hand and cleared his throat.

“I’m Mr. Rhys; you can call me Liam. I’m Paloma’s teacher.”

‘Also VERY single AND very interested.’

“But before you go, I actually feel I need to bring up something Polly said.”

Liam thought, ‘Gavin is a fucken fuck face. He is rude to everyone and just a complete brat. Is it wrong to be glad she told him off so I could meet you?’

Jessica frowned, “Oh?” ‘I really could just listen to you talk for hours. I bet you are good with kids. I will have ALL your babies…want to start tonight?’

“See…Another student cut in front of her to see Chance and Polly said a string of very creative profanity.” ‘I’d also like to say I can get lost in those brown eyes, and all is forgiven, Love. Love the nickname suits you. Let me whisper it in your ear while you sleep.’

Jessica nervously bit her lip and thought inwardly, ‘Oh Squirtle! I mean, oh shit! Now, you want to curse in Pokémon? You just made Polly that kid. Drake is going to be so mad at me FUCK. I’m still going over your house for the Yankee game fuck that.’

“Oh, I am so sorry about that. Mr. Walker really should watch what he says around her. It’s the job that takes its toll on you in many ways.”

Liam raised a brow with an amused look. “Oh, is that so? Because I heard something about her Titi saying it. Wonder if perhaps her Titi might consider another manner to express her disappointment.”

‘I would love to give you ideas over dinner. But if you would like to just be on time out under me, that can be arranged.’

Jessica gave Polly a look as Polly was oblivious while playing with Chance. Jessica smiled back at Liam.

“Well, I mean-I promise, I’ll talk to her about it.” ‘I’m torn between being angry at her for snitching or getting her a happy meal and doing a kiddie interrogation for intel.’

“It’s alright. Kids are like sponges at this age. It was very creative, though.” He chuckled, and Jessica chuckled as well.

“Yeah, you get creative in traffic.”

There was a bit of silence as they both smiled at each other.

Liam thought, ‘Can I ask her out? Is that allowed? I can’t even remember the last time I felt like this…Which is never.’

Jessica thought, ‘Does he like to read them stories? Look around the room, be cool; wait, guitar? Just take my panties.’

They both cleared the silence with a small laugh as Jessica said, “Well, I guess we better go. Come on, Polly.”

Liam wanted to frown but forced himself not to. ‘I don’t want you to leave. I want to know everything there is to know about you. Do you like French toast? Do you like coffee or tea? How many kids do you want? Do you love to dance? Ever been to Cordonia? I kinda have to do this thing. What are your thoughts on marriage?’

Polly sighed, “Ookkaay… By Chance, Bye Mr. R.!”

Jessica saw her sweater on the desk and walked past it. ‘Cinderella didn’t look back, so I’m not.’

He waved, “Goodbye, Polly.” Chance sat next to Liam as he watched Jessica and Polly leave the classroom. He looked down at Chance by his leg and smiled, then said, “…AND that’s how I met your mother on a sunny April afternoon covered in glitter. You’re a good boy, Chance; you are a very good boy indeed.”

In the parking lot

“Chicky nuggie?”

“Abso-fucken-lutely.” Jessica slapped her thigh, annoyed at herself for the slip-up. “Well, if I can get in a corner with Mr. Rhys, I will die happy, so there is that.”

“I’m telling Daddy!”

“Polly… Do you want to go to ‘Its Sugar’? I will let you buy whatever you want. They have a five-pound gummy bear with your name on it. We can keep it in my house.”

Back in the classroom

Liam sighed to himself as he cleaned up the room. ‘I hope she comes around more…God, you should have just asked her.’

He looked at the purple sweater and grabbed it. “WELL wouldn’t be the first time a prince brought something back to its owner.” He stared down at the sweater, smelling lavender vanilla on it. “I love Vanilla.”

Jessica’s Loft Intercom

Liam held the purple sweater in his hand, “I can do this. It’s not weird. So, she is Polly’s Aunt. I can ask her out. She gets to know the real Liam.”

Liam buzzed the apartment.

Jessica answered, “Hi, can I help you?”

“Um… Hi, Ms. Garcia. You left a purple sweater in my classroom. I hope you don’t mind. I asked Mrs. Walker if I could have your address to bring it to you.”

“Thank you, I will be right down.”

Inside Jessica’s loft

Jessica felt her heart flutter as she rushed to the bedroom and looked all over her apartment for an outfit and decided on her perfect black skinny jeans with a wine-colored top. She looked at herself in the mirror and fidgeted with her hair and shirt, and said, “I am Beyoncé, always. Beyoncé is flawless.” She accepted it and made her way downstairs going.

Jessica opened her apartment building door, “Thanks.” She smiled. Liam handed her the sweater, and their eyes met, their hands barely touching.

‘Do it. Take this chance. Don’t let yourself wake up tomorrow regretting not knowing what could have been.’

Liam took a deep breath and said, “I also wanted to deliver it in person because I was hoping you would be interested in going out with me. It’s Friday, and I’m sure you have other commitments -”

Jessica beamed, “No, I don’t. What did you have in mind?

“Stargazing on a beach, you aren’t too far from the beach, I believe.

Jessica felt butterflies in her stomach. ‘It sure beats an Astros - Yankee game…sorry, Drake.’

She faltered, “Well, it’s a private section. So they write us a ticket. I bet I can get us out of it.”

Liam smiled. ‘I own the section. It was where my mother took my father. Before the start of his season.”

“I have a particular attachment to its namesake. Don’t worry, I’m sure we can avoid tickets.”

Jessica enthusiastically nodded, “Uh, can I go get changed real fast?”

‘You look perfect as is. ‘

“Of course, I’ll wait.”

Once the door closed, Jessica practically skipped back to her apartment to get a jacket for the evening and but on a pair of sneakers. Liam grinned to himself as he hummed the class song for the week ‘If you’re happy and you know it.’

Pebble Beach - Lily Cove

“I thought this was nice and quiet. I hope you don’t mind.”

Jessica saw the stars barely forming as the sun started to set. Orange light reflected off the water and gave them both a golden glow. It was so peaceful.

Jessica smiled, “No, it’s perfect here.”

Liam took out a messenger he packed with a beach towel and fanned it out in the air; they could see specks of glitter release themselves from the blanket as they looked up. It almost seemed magical.

“…Is that glitter?” She smiled as she watched it twinkle in the air and landed on her.

“Yes, and we are totally covered in it. I’m so sorry. I had my students make an art project for ‘World Art Day.’”

“Well, Mr. R., you really are like a dream teacher.”

“Thank you that is very kind of you. But I’m hoping that despite all the glitter I just got on you, maybe you would think I’m an even better date.”

They laid the blanket down and sat across from each other. “A picnic?”

“Sort of. I wasn’t sure if I made it to you by the time, you would have eaten, so I packed something for us to snack on. “

‘Us. I like the sound of that.’ Liam thought to himself as he gave Jessica a warm smile. He began to unpack the impromptu picnic French bread, baked brie with honey and walnuts, and a nicely boxed cupcake.

Jessica raised a brow, “Is that from…”

“Yes. Emily made us a ‘date’ cupcake. Lemon, lavender rosewater cupcake.”

“That is gorgeous,” Jessica said, looking at the beautifully decorated cupcake.

“It is. But the cupcake is second to you.” Liam said, looking at Jessica sweetly.

Jessica blushed and averted Liam’s gaze, “Thank you.” She changed the topic with a smile. “So, you teach Pre-K?”

Liam smiled. “Yes. Yes, I do. It is the best job I’ve had so far. I volunteered at a foundation to did pro bono work, and one of the teachers at the school told me there was an opening, and I should consider it.”

“I love that. It’s just nice to give back. Work is where you spend most of your time if you’re unhappy, and you can …Change.”

Liam smiled knowingly, “I was a corporate attorney for a few years, and I worked long hours… I was so unhappy, Jessica. I just felt there was something I was more suited for. I wanted to travel again like I did in college.”

“You can call me Jessie if you want. That’s what my friends call me.”

Liam smiled, “I’m sorry, being formal is just a thing I naturally do. May I call you Jess?”

“Sure.”

“Jess, tell me about yourself. What is your heart’s desire?”

90 minutes later…

The conversation flowed easily between them. Jessica muttered, “Una Estrella fugaz” (A shooting star)

Liam responded,“Cuando ves una estrella fugaz, tienes que pedir un deseo.” (When you see a shooting star, you have to make a wish)

“You speak Spanish?” Jessica asked.

“Yes. I learned when I traveled.”

Jessica said as she gave him a glowing smile. “Cerrar los ojos y pedir un deseo” (close your eyes and make a wish)

They closed their eyes, and Jessica reached for Liam’s hand, and he grabbed it; they both squeezed each other’s hands as they made their wish quietly in their heads.

‘I wish for more nights like this with Liam.’

‘I wish for more nights like this with Jess.’

Liam smiled and asked, “Ready for that cupcake?”

“Sure.”

Liam carefully unwrapped the cupcake and held it in his hand. “I forgot to bring something to cut this in half with.” He held the cupcake to Jessica’s lips, “Here, you take a bite.”

Jessica closed her eyes and bit into the soft, moist cupcake, and let out a little moan. “Gosh, that’s so good.” Jessica took the cupcake out of Liam’s hand and said, “Your turn.”

Jessica’s Apartment

“Liam, I had a really great night.”

“I did too.”

“Jess, text me when you get home safe, okay?”

Jessica smiled at his consideration of her. It sadly wasn’t often a man did that on first dates. “Sure, I’d like that.” She bit her lip as Liam leaned over the door frame towering over her. “How tall are you, Jess?”

“Liam, I’m 4’11.”

‘I love the way she says my name. I SO want to kiss her. I think I’m in Love. Here goes nothing.”

“So, this is that awkward part where we stand there just wondering. I would like not to wonder.” He noticed she got on her toes too, and instantly he felt her heart melt, and then he gently lifted her chin.

Pressed his lips to hers. He could still taste the buttercream frosting from their shared cupcake. Their tongues coiled and mingled, finding the perfect rhythm that sent shivers up their spine. That moment they connected, and the hustle and bustle of city life paused, and their wildest dreams felt possible, and they were falling for each other.

He rested his head on hers. “I had a really great night.”

“Me too,” Jessica murmured, feeling like it was the date she always dreamed of with a man that felt like a fairytale.

Jessica stepped away and entered her apartment and A few minutes later, she texted Liam. ‘Thank you for a great time. I hope we can do it again.”

She noticed the message was received, so she decided to change and get ready for bed.

Two hours later …

Liam didn’t respond. She sighed. I like good strong words that mean something. I believe he meant them. So relax, Jess, maybe he is asleep.’

Meanwhile, outside of Jessica’s apartment

Liam found himself returning after taking a quick shower. He didn’t want his night to end. Never feeling like he connected to anyone the way he did with her. He thought it was silly and that she might find it odd. He texted, “It’s me, Liam. Jess, I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Jessica: I can’t stop thinking about you either.

Liam: Do you want to watch the sunrise with me?

Jessica: Yes. Yes. I do. Um, I have a rooftop garden. Want to come here?

Liam: I would love that.

Jessica: You know the way?

Liam: Yes.

Jessica: Call me when you get here so I can buzz you in.

Liam: Okay.

Jessica’s phone rang, and she answered, “Liam.”

“Hey, I’ve been outside your apartment for about an hour. I just never really felt like this before about someone. I didn’t want the night to end.”

Jessica’s rooftop garden 4:42 AM - Saturday

Liam and Jessica sat there holding warm mugs of coffee wrapped in a blanket and watched the sunrise, and she dreaded him leaving shortly after, so she cuddled close to him.

“Liam, can I make you French toast after this?”

“I love French toast.” ‘Your one I have been waiting my whole life for.’ He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and touched her nose gently with his thumb.

“You still have glitter on you.”

6 hours later…

Liam’s Brownstone

Liam smiled as he opened up his apartment door. He was on cloud nine. He couldn’t wait for their second date. He was already planning it in his mind.

When he walked in, he was surprised to see someone sitting on his couch.

“Hey, little brother.”

“Leo, what are you doing here?”

Originally published on 4.15.21 and transitioned to this URL on 7.2.21 by the original author. -J

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