#jason’s love interests are seething when they hear about it

[e-munson666]

Petals & Metals (2)

+++Eddie Munson x Girly F!Reader+++

(After lunch Eddie doesn't see you again for the rest of the day. He tries not to let it bother him, until he overhears Jason and his friends planning to corner you after school. Eddie is determined to keep you safe, even if he has to fight Jason again)

Warnings ⚠️: 18+ language, fighting, protective Eddie, douche Jason, Pining ×fluff× pretty much in eddies pov

(Pt1)

🖤xoxo

((Picture from pinterest))

Eddie spent the class after lunch trying to grasp what had happened to him today. In a matter of hours he had met and become completely enamored with the new sweetheart of Hawkins high. He'd gotten into a fist fight with Jason Carver (again) after watching a small but disastrous interaction between the two of you. When he'd offered to let you join him at his table he wasn't even sure what he was expecting happen.

What made him even more confused was the fact that you firmly held his hand the entire time you sat next to him at lunch. Fingers intertwined together, while you gently caressed his rough hand with your small, smooth thumb. He couldn't explain the intense feeling he was experiencing. He'd never been in love, or anything like it, but he was sure that for you, he was currently falling down that steep hill, and he was terrified.

He was lost in his thoughts when he suddenly overheard Jason and his moron minions talking about you. Jason was extremely unimpressed by you sitting next to Eddie "the freak" Munson at lunch, and you holding his hand. Jason was planning to corner you at your locker after the final bell and "convincing" you to go out with him.

Eddies face was hot, and his hands were clenching his desk so tight it might crumble between his fingers. He couldn't let Jason get near you again, and he was going to do whatever he could protect you. He searched the halls for you several times as the day went on, but never saw you. His heart was racing quicker than it had ever done before as he impatiently waited on the edge of his seat in last period.

Once the final bell sounded Eddie was bounding out of his chair and into the halls. He caught a glimpse of the pink bow in your hair and nearly ran over to you. He wrapped his arm around your waist softly and felt you jerk at his touch. "Its just me princess, don't worry" he reassured and your body relaxed again. "Please don't be alarmed but you need to come with me, like right now" Eddie says, trying to keep the calm tone in his voice, and failing. You look up at him fearfully and was about to speak before you hear someone chuckling behind the two of you.

"Well well well" Jason spits, eyes darting between you and Eddie as you turn to face him. "The princess and the Freak" he jokes, gaining a laugh from his possy behind him. "You know, there's a lot better out there for you than, this" he says, pointing and shoving his finger into Eddies chest.

"Watch it Carver" Eddie seethes, jaw clenched, as he gripped you tighter. "She's clearly not interested." "Why don't we let her speak for herself, ey Munson." Jason said, poking into Eddies chest again. Jason moved his focus onto you, grabbing your wrist with his large hand. "Come with me, where you belong." As the last word left Jasons lips Eddie was leaping at him.

"STOP IT" Eddie hears you yell, he stops himself right before landing a punch on Jasons face. "Eddie, can we please go" you spoke lower, your manicured hand stretching out to him. Eddie huffs, taking your hand and leading you away from the flock of jocks.

He leads you out of the school and into the parking lot before stopping. "Are you ok" he asks, hand shaking in yours from residual anger. "Do you, do you need a ride home" he manages as he works to calm himself down. He doesn't want you to see him worked up like this again. He slows his breathing and meets your gaze.

You are smiling sweetly up at him. "I would really like that" you say, squeezing his hand again. Before he can turn away to lead you to his car you are engulfing him in another long embrace. "Thanks for being my hero today Eddie Munson" you coo into his chest. His body completely liquefied as you spoke to him. He was melting into a pool of mush, he was sure of it. "Dont mention it sweetheart" he whispers, kissing your forehead, "I've always got you" squeezing you back.

He slowly releases from your embrace and leads you to his van. He opens the door for you and helps you up into his passenger seat. When he closes the door he can feel eyes on him. He turns to see Jason and his band of idiots glaring at him from the other side of the parking lot. Eddie offers them a double middle finger salute before he walks over to the drivers side and hops in.

"So where am I taking you M'Lady" he jokes, looking over at you. You are fidgeting nervously in your seat, and Eddie can't help but notice. "Hey, you okay?" He asks. "Eddie, do you, do you think," You trip over your words before finally blurting out, "Can I come with you and hangout for awhile?" Now blushing as you finally look up at him. "Yeah," he says, almost shocked, "ya of course you can princess" he finished before putting a hand on your leg. "We can be at my place in 10 minutes" he reassured you before starting the ignition.

His heart was beating so quickly Eddie was sure it was going to burst from his chest. He slowly pulled out of the school parking lot and started to head to his trailer. He felt you suddenly place your small hand on his leg, and he couldn't help the wide grin from spreading across his face as he drove.

He parks in front if his trailer and hops out, motioning for you to stay put. He quickly walks to your side of the van and opens the door for you. Before he can reach out his hand you leap into his arms. He quickly spins you around, away from the car as you giggle. He places your feet on the gravel and looks down at you lustfully.

He takes in the view of your soft, sweet face before taking it in his hands and planting a long kiss on your lips. He has a moment of regret before he feels you push yourself onto your tip toes and wrap your arms around his shoulders, pulling him in.

If he wasn't done for before, he sure as fuck was now.

#fanfic #eddie munson #eddie the freak munson #eddie munson stranger things #eddie the banished #eddie munson x female reader #stranger things

[dulafer]

CHIEF OF STAFF

1st story in a 3 part series...... How to make government work :).  The 2nd in series is ‘The Cadet’ to be followed by ‘The Senator’.  The first two use twins, the last uses plastic surgery.  I’ve stalled writing the Senator but maybe I’ll get back to it over the Holidays. This is actually a str8 story (Oh my god!).

For those outside the United States, most of our politicians have a Chief of Staff, their ‘right hand person’ who keep things flowing in the offices and campaigns.... basically a gofer/jack of all trades.

As usual, it’s lonnnngggggg......

Feedback appreciated - [email protected]

Crappy Morning

Jason Cook sat half naked in front of his television, drinking his morning coffee and watching a copy of himself being interviewed on ‘The Morning Joe’. It’s always surreal seeing a different version of himself—one that’s clean shaven, well dressed, well mannered and charming. He’s watching his identical twin brother, Garrett, on national TV mouthing the talking points of Senator Robert Gehris, his boss and probably the next president of the United States. 

“Senator Gehris doesn’t see this as a detriment to deal with but as an opportunity for the country to move forward to a better future.” His brother says with a straight face that liberals love. 

Jason repeats verbatim. “Senator Gehris doesn’t see this as a detriment to deal with but as an opportunity for the country to move forward to a better future.” Then adds his own opinion. “Snotty assholes like you bro, will only ruin this country.”

Jason is fixated on the TV. It happens every time his brother pops up on it. He realizes how different their lives are now but remembers how similar they used to be. Garrett got accepted by Harvard Law school, got lucky with an internship in the summer with then state Senator Gehris and has been by his side ever since. He never practiced law, but passed the Bar in NY then jumped right into politics, managing the senator’s campaigns and life. 

Jason remembers their weekly chats and all the shit he was putting up with from ‘Robert’. They used to be really close but after their father died, Garrett moved to DC and became another person. The problem was their father's inheritance and how Garrett handled it. Jason felt he was screwed out of $400,000 to help Garrett get through Harvard and was never paid back. Their weekly chats became monthly, then yearly and now it’s like Jason never existed. 

Jason is disgusted with his life and how it turned out. He’s working as a researcher for some free legal clinic in Albany, making crappy money and doing shit work for scumbags. He never finished his law degree from Cuny-Queens College, he failed 6 credits and never looked back.  He’s bitter and jealous of his perfect brother who’s on television more and more these days.

He snaps back to the TV from his thoughts when he hears Mika ask about Garrett’s personal life. “So, there’s a lot of rumors going around about you and Jennifer Hastings, care to elaborate?”

“Well, I got permission to say that we’re dating and getting to know each other.” Garrett chuckles.

“Interesting, a Washington star and Hollywood star mixing it up. How did you meet?” Joe chimes in.

“It was at a fund raiser at Geffen’s home in Hollywood, we were both bored, got chatting and just sort of clicked. Miss you babe.” Garrett answers with a shout out and wave to her.

“What does your family think of you dating such a major star?” Mika asks.

“Since my father passed years ago, there isn’t any family to tell.” He answers with a straight face.

“Fucking lying bastard,” Jason screams at the TV, then snidely repeats. “Well, I got permission to say we’re dating and getting to know each other.” Adding “I’m pussy whipped and she keeps my balls in her purse.”

Jason is seething with anger at his brother for not acknowledging him in public. He grabs the phone and calls in sick to work, then grabs a beer from his fridge at 8:30 in the morning, chugging it and grabbing a second one. 

The Proposal

Jason is halfway wasted by lunch time. Every time he sees his brother on TV or in an article, it sets him off. Today was the last straw when he ceased to exist  by his brother’s comments. He thinks of calling the Washington Times and revealing himself as the forgotten brother but what would that accomplish?  Who’d care if Garrett Cook has family or not? 

As he’s flipping back and forth between channels and finishing another beer, there’s a knock at his door. 

“Probably fucking Tammy wanting me to help her with something, I should have answered one of her dozen phone calls this morning.” Jason mumbles to himself then yells “What?” And yanks open the door.

It’s not Jason’s neighbor Tammy but some startled suited older man.

“Mr. Cook, may I come in?” He politely asks.

“No, what is this about?” Jason demands.

“It’s of a sensitive, personal nature that I really can’t discuss out in the hallway.”

Jason gestures for him to enter. “Okay, make it quick I have a busy day planned.”

“It looks it.” The man chuckles, sits down without asking, pushing the empty beer cans away from himself.

“Make it fast, I’m broke, not buying anything and you have 10 minutes before I get my gun or call the police.” 

“What if you could not be broke and buy anything you wanted?” The man proposes. 

“Are you from Publishers Clearing House with a huge check and hidden camera someplace?” Jason mocks him.

“Not exactly, but what if I could give you the life you’ve always wanted?”

“Yeah right, what life would that be?”

“That of up and coming Garrett Marcus Cook, political mastermind, chief of staff of the powerful Senator Gehris, likely future president of the United States.”

“Ha, yeah right, get back the life he stoled from me. Do you know, I took his SAT for him and did better than when I took them as myself earlier? I should have been accepted into Harvard Law. I’d have some hot shot career on Wall Street raking in the bucks. He’s not as smart as he portrays himself in public but he sure knows how to kiss Gehris’ ass.” Jason rambles on angrily. 

“What if I could at least give you Garrett’s life as compensation for all he’s done to you?” 

“How would you do that?” 

“Well, for one, you still look identical to him, second we can teach you all you need to know about him, with your help of course.”

“Are you looking at me? He’s about 180 pounds, six pack abs based on his beach pics with Jennifer and we haven’t spoken in years.  We’d never be mistaken for twins these day. And I have this…” Jason roles up his sleeve and shows the man a tattoo on his shoulder.

“All minor really, except one thing.” The man counters.

“What’s in it for you? I don’t even know your name and where you’re from.” 

“We need an inside man in the future President’s office. You’d be that guy, you’d be your brother, have his life, his girlfriend, his money and substantially more money from us. The minor thing is plastic surgery to remove the tattoo and give you his fingerprints.”

“You can change my fingerprints? This all sounds like a spy novel. Who are you and who do you work for?” Jason demands.

“It is part spy novel. We’re not a foreign entity I promise you that. I’m Jeffrey Coleman and I work for the ‘Team’, one of the oldest secret societies in the United States.  I can’t tell you anything else until you decide what you want to do?”

“How much money are we talking?” He asks bluntly.

“$25 million, plus your brother’s net worth of roughly $1million and all the perks of being him.”

“Fuck, that fucker has that much money? How could I spend all that without raising eyebrows?”

“Oh you’d be surprised how money can be managed to one’s advantage son.” He says in a fatherly, mentoring tone.

“What about Garrett? What happens to him?” He asks curiously.

“Oh, ‘Jason’ would have a quick painless accident, you’d mourn and come clean about your strained relationship and shed some tears.” Jeffrey proposes.

Jason doesn’t say a word, just sits there thinking through the proposal, thinking how he’d be getting back what’s rightfully his’… a degree from Harvard, a great future and one fucking hot girlfriend. Jason has always been a political person and was shocked when his brother gave up law for Washington. He gets up and walks to the mirror, staring at his reflection, playing with his hair, turning his head from side to side thinking.

“Since my father passed years ago, there isn’t any family to please.” He turns to Jeffrey and smiles. “Call me Garrett please.”

“Nice to meet you Garrett.” Jeffrey shakes his hand firmly.

“So what’s the plan?”

“Well, first, you’ve got to make a mends with your brother.”

“What the fuck for, I might kill him before you can.” Jason is buzzed and pissed off. 

“Easy, you need to gain access to his life . We need to bug it completely—his phone, computer, car and even his office in the Senate building. Just play his caring brother who misses him. Visit him for a week in DC, keep a low profile but we need access.”

“Ok, I can do that.  What about the plastic surgery?”

“That comes after we have all the information. While you’re recovering from the surgery, you’ll be learning about his life, getting up to speed.”

“You think this can actually work?” Jason continues staring at himself in the mirror, checking himself out. 

“Yeah, you’ll have world class support. We have it all planned out. First, you now have a fiancé, Lisa, who’ll accompany you to DC to meet with your brother. She’ll observe him and help with the electronics. He’s got a two bedroom townhouse in Georgetown. So you’ll show up at his doorstep and invite yourself to crash there for the week. Once everything is in place, we’ll have you undergo the modifications. During recovery, you’ll study your new life in detailed, be grilled by our team and transformed into him. We’ll make the switch when you’re a carbon copy of your brother, down to the smallest detail.”

“You can do all that?” He grins to himself more the mirror while talking to Jeffrey in the reflection.

“Yes, but it’ll be a lot of hard work on your part. Is it a deal?”

Jason turns from the mirror, faces Jeffrey directly and shakes his hand. “When do we start.”

Family Reunion

A week later, early on a Saturday morning, Jason and Lisa show up unexpectedly at Garrett’s doorstep. It’s planned for a week that Jennifer is in Los Angeles and Garrett will be alone. Lisa and Jason have been practicing their story of how they met, got engaged etc..and how they wanted Garrett to be the first to know.  Jeffrey’s team has been studying Garrett from afar for months and have a good idea of his habits/routines.

Jason knocks at the door, looking scruffy with a full beard, wearing a baseball cap and glasses to disguise himself from neighbors or people that might know Garrett.  It’s important that no one knows of Jason’s existence or visit to DC.

“Brother!” Jason quietly announces when Garrett opens the door.

“Oh my god! I was just talking about you a week ago during an interview. Come on in.” Garrett lies and Jason knows it.

“Hello.” A bubbly Lisa pops out from around the side of the door.

“Garrett, this is Lisa, my fiancé, Lisa this is Garrett.”  Lisa jumps in the door and starts hugging Garrett. 

“Wow, congratulations guys!” Garrett sounds genuinely happy for them. 

Jason and Lisa grab their bags and brush past Garrett, placing everything inside the entryway. It’s a beautiful old brownstone that’s been completely remodeled. 

“Nice place bro, you must be doing good for yourself?”

“Yeah, politics pays well when you’re connected to the right people.” Garrett snickers.

“I’d say, nice place. We wanted to surprise you and I didn’t even have your latest address. Lisa had to look you up on anywho.com. Hope you don’t mind the unannounced visit. It was spur of the moment really and Lisa so wanted to meet you. We haven’t even found a hotel yet.” 

Lisa giggles and hangs on Jason’s shoulder. “I love your brother so much and when he told me about you, I forced him to jump in the car and tell you in person.”

“Oh, don’t worry about a hotel, I have a spare bedroom and lots of space. The only problem is I do have to work a lot this week though, there’s Senate hearings on the military budget all week that I must attend. So you might be on your own a lot.”

“Not a problem, I’ve never been to DC and want to do all the touristy stuff with my honey.” Lisa giggles and kisses Jason as a loving couple.

Garrett invites them into his home, giving them a spare key  and offering his car since he rarely needs to drive anywhere in Washington.  Jason and Lisa pull off the loving couple, sharing the bed and making noises at night. The plan is to monopolize Garrett’s time and immediately start intercepting every conversation, text and email. Garrett spends time with them but doesn’t take them out in public, doesn’t introduce them to any of his friends. On their first night, they head out in Garrett’s BMW X5 to Bethesda for dinner and a club.

Jason and Lisa get Garrett drunk, she laces his drink and Jason drives them home. Garrett’s garage is in the rear basement of the townhouse and no one can see them coming and going. They get him to bed but now the work begins.  Garrett is stripped completely naked. Lisa grabs a scanner from her bag and scans every inch of him including his fingertips.  Lisa then takes pics and scans of the inside of his mouth. Every inch is analyzed, recorded and uploaded to the ‘Team’. 

Once they’re finished with Garrett’s scans, Lisa starts pulling out miniature cameras and microphones, expertly placing them in vents and smoke detectors. Meanwhile, Jason pulls out a bag containing a USB memory stick, cameras and bugs. He plugs the memory stick into Garrett’s home and government computer and it starts installing surveillance software. The computer will now automatically listen and watch whenever the display is open. The camera light won’t show as on but it’ll be watching and transmitting everything. Garrett’s iPhone and iPad are plugged into another device for the same purpose. Hours later, phase one of their main mission is complete and the fake lovers are in bed enjoying each other. 

From this moment on Garrett’s life will become Jason’s. Jason never knew this type of technology existed but now he’ll be able to listen to his brother’s conversations, read his email, and see his text messages. He'll also able to watch Garrett's FaceTime sex with Jennifer that his brother bragged about. This really arouses him and he can’t stop thinking of fucking her as his brother. He’s become obsessed with Jennifer, watching every movie she’s made and googling her daily.

The rest of the week, Jason and Lisa play the happy couple, sight seeing and having fun while Garrett works. Sometimes they grab lunch or dinner with Garrett but it’s always obscure locations where they won’t run into anyone he knows. Jason’s team documented Garrett’s habits and know he’s a workaholic, often putting in 12 hour days with only a few nights free for hanging with his friends at a bar or poker game in someone’s house. Garrett’s phone calls, text and conversations never once bring up his brother’s visit. Never once while talking or cybering with his girlfriend does Garrett mention his brother or fiancée.

In the mornings, Jason discretely watches and memorizes Garrett’s routine, noting his protein shakes, Pelonton workouts and grooming. When his brother goes to work, Jason repeats his routine. During the day while Garrett is at work, Lisa tests Jason on his brother’s life and coaches him. Jason also studies his future home, learning where things are and how they’re organized. Garrett’s montblanc pen was replaced Sunday night with an identical version that contains a microphone.  This gives Jason access to his brother’s work life as he always keeps his pen on him.

Jason is also on a diet and fitness regimen.  The scans of his brother’s body revealed 12% body fat while he’s at 19%. He started on a strict plan the day after Jeffrey’s visit over a week ago. Jason tried on his brother’s clothes but he could barely get into the pants.  He still has a ways to go—he's got a little tummy with no definition while Garrett has a six pack and V-cut. He’s got to be 99.9% identical to his brother for this to work. 

Jason has also been applying cream every night to his tattoo. It slowly attacks and erases the ink while helping the skin heal without surgery. He notices a slight fading of the tattoo since starting with the cream. Another issue that Lisa noticed was Garrett’s bright white teeth—Jason’s are discolored from too much coffee and the occasional cigar or joint.  Luckily, Garrett’s whitening tray and gel fit perfect for Jason and he helps himself to them. 

When Jason and Jessica leave on Saturday morning, Garrett’s details are clear to the ‘Team’ and all are convinced this is the perfect substitution job. Jason will easily step into his brother’s life after some plastic surgery, physical training and lessons in being Garrett.

The Details

Jason is not taken back to Albany after his visit to his brother’s, but to a location outside of Washington in Maryland. Lisa is gone completely, onto another assignment for the Team. The facility looks like an ancient farm on the outside but inside is a state-of-the-art hospital with the best doctors and latest equipment. Underneath the farm is a large underground complex that has 4 levels according to the elevator.  He’s in a small apartment on the highest level, with access to TV, a computer with Garrett’s ongoing life available for him to watch.

He’s taken in for surgery on his fingertips the next morning. The plan is to duplicate Garrett so completely that not even an expert could tell them apart. When he wakes up, his hands, mouth, stomach and knee cap are all sore. Jeffrey is waiting at his bedside when he wakes up.

“Jason? How are you feeling?” Jeffrey asks. 

“My mouth, what the fuck?” Jason mumbles in pain.

“Oh, we took out your wisdom teeth like Garrett had done a few years ago. We also gave you a filling and whitened your teeth to match Garrett’s. Garrett’s dentist couldn’t tell the difference now but it’ll take a while to heal.”

“Thanks for warning me. You said just fingerprints?” Jason complains.

“We didn’t want you to worry about everything. We also gave you liposuction to remove your belly, love handles and add definition. The soreness on your kneecap is from replicating the scar your brother has.”

“Wow, you guys think of everything. Garrett fell when we were learning to ride a bike. It took him a year to get back on one.” Jason chuckles at the memory. 

Jason pulls up his t-shirt and grins at his new six pack stomach. “Wow, that looks great, why did you have me kill myself with that diet?”

“Ah, you’re not done with the diet. Based on scans, you still need to lose ten pounds, mostly in the face, neck and legs but you’re really close. You also need to change your eating habits.”

“Can I just have a Big Mac, just one? I just had surgery, I need one.” Jason begs jokingly.

“Exactly what I’m talking about! No, never again, your brother hates fast food, never touches it and so do you now.  We also used a laser to remove the rest of your tattoo while you were under.”

“What has Garrett been up to while I’ve been under?” Jason questions.

Jeffrey hands Jason an iPad and he begins reviewing the last few days. “You should rest another day the doctor is saying, don’t get out of bed and drink lots of fluids.”

The actual doctor overhears Jeffrey as he comes in. “Good to hear you playing doctor Jeffrey.  How is the patient?”

“I feel like I’ve been hit by a freight train, especially my mouth. My fingers feel tingly and my stomach hurts.”

“That’s all normal for what you’ve been through. I’m going to prescribe more pain killers for you, to help you sleep. Don’t get out of bed without help from the nurse or me.”

After everyone leaves, Jason listens to a few of Garrett’s phone calls and chats from Garrett’s office, then passes out for a day.  When he wakes, the doctor is fussing with the bandages on his hands.

“Good morning.” The doctor greets him cheerfully. “You’re healing perfectly.”

The doctor lifts up his uncover hands and show them to him. “Don’t worry about the redness, by the end of the week, they’ll be normal.

“They don’t look any different?” Jason says, noticing an improvement in his speech.

“Trust me they are. I just did a quick scan and they’re a 99% match for your brother’s. They’ll be 100% when they heal completely. I’m really pleased with how things are turning out. We scanned your body last night and you’re dimensionally 95% of your brother. By the end of the week, you’ll be a clone of your brother.” Doc promises. 

Jeffrey and Doc are in and out daily, checking on him.  First thing every morning is a training session with a personal fitness coach. The trainer has him replicate Garrett’s Peloton session, then adds hours of exercise to tone and condition his body. Lunch is followed by catching up on his brother’s day. He reviews all of Garrett's chats, emails and conversations. He's easily learning all the issues his brother is dealing daily and how to handle them like him. Being his twin, it’s easy to pick up his brother’s slang, attitude and gestures. He watches his brother’s morning routine of working out, showering, and dressing for work. The Team provided months of Garrett’s photos, videos of him going to work on the Metro, going out with friends and Jennifer. Along with Garrett’s Instagram and Twitter, this gives him great insight into his brother’s life. 

Within a few weeks, Jason’s physical transformation is complete. The tattoo is completely gone and there’s no soreness anywhere on his body.  Everything seems to have healed 100%. The nurse comes in with a scanner and inspects him—according to her, he’s at 98.9% dimensionally of Garrett. He’s feeling great but restless when Jeffrey and some stranger walks in. 

“Garrett, this is Todd, he’s here to test you.” Jeffrey says with a devious smile.

“Hmmm Garrett? I like the sound of that. More tests? For what? I’ve been probed and poked so much.” Jason complains.

“I'm here to help you become your brother completely. You have the looks nailed but there’s a lot to learn about his past and current life. When I’m done with you, you’ll believe you attended Harvard and have been living in Washington DC for years. You’ll  know your professors, about parties, spring breaks and your brother’s sex life. You’ll know your fellow coworkers and all of Garrett’s other friends and acquaintances.” Todd jumps in.

Jason looks at him queerly. “How did you find out about his parties, spring breaks and all?”

“You’d be surprised what people tell the ‘FBI’ when we interview his friends for Garrett’s new top secret clearance.” Todd grins.

“Oh, That’s devious but I like it.” Jason chuckles.

“Miss your girlfriend?” Todd fires a question at him.

“What do you think? I have the hottest girlfriend in the world. She’s in Rome and I’m flying to Milwaukee. Life sucks. I can’t wait to see her in a few weeks when she’s done filming that stupid love movie with Nick Bateman, damn am I jealous. FaceTime just doesn’t cut it. I miss her so much.” Perfectly repeating the conversation Garrett had with Senator Gehris yesterday.

“Tell me about your brother.” 

“I don’t have a brother, what are you talking about?”

“Sure you do.”

“I haven’t seen him in years, since Dad died. He accused me of taking all the inheritance for myself. I may have taken more than my share but I was going to pay him back once I got financially sound.  Then he started threatening me with lawyers from his stupid clinic and I ended it.” Jason responds perfectly.

“Doing happy hour tonite?”

“Nah, I can’t. I’m finishing up things for Robert but watching the Michigan State game tomorrow night at McGinty’s with my friends Jonathan, Amy and Mark. Should be packed and it’ll keep my mind off not having Jennifer with me.” He sounds bummed. 

“What do you like to wear?” 

“Anything Harvard of course.” Jason laughs. “It depends on the event. For a night at the bar for a game, it’s definitely one of my many Harvard t-shirts, jeans and my leather jacket. If I’m hanging with Jennifer, then I really have to up my game with a sports coat, say, something from Hugo Boss, slacks and a nice dress shirt. Something that’s more ‘Hollywood’ if you know what I mean. For happy hour after work, it’s just my typical work outfit—suit, always a Harvard tie. I like people to know I’m a Harvard Alumni.” Jason smiles at both of them. 

“Garrett, tell me about the Hypersonic funding proposal you’re working on.” Todd orders.

Jason looks at him for a second, then naturally responds. “It’s out of the defense committee, I’ve made some minor changes per Robert’s wishes and it’s heading to the floor for a vote on Monday. Unfortunately I’m going to miss the vote because I’ll be flying to Nevada, meeting with party chairmen on the upcoming caucus. I leave Sunday morning, 6am American Airline flight 402, being picked up by Lance.”

“Very good Garrett, very good.” Todd says thrilled.

Todd and Jeffrey smile at Jason’s answers knowing he’ll do great for their mission. The following week, Todd is coaching him 14 hours/day on all things Garrett when he’s not working out. Jason thought he knew a lot about his brother but quickly realizes how out of touch they’ve been. Garrett’s life has been a series of promotions and accomplishments always by Senator Gehris’ side. Jason is watching videos of his brother from the Senator’s campaign, TV interviews and other sources. For Jason, it’s almost 24/7 studying Garrett at home, in the office and out in public. He listens to all his brother’s chats with friends and coworkers, which is overwhelming but he’s now recognizing the voices and issues. Todd has him memorizing his speeches, typical introductions and managing Webex meetings as his brother does.  Learning someone else’s life, even his twin’s, is more work than Jason ever imagined.

A few weeks later, Jeffrey interrupts their morning session.

“How’s it going guys?” Jeffrey questions.

“He’s ready Jeffrey.” Todd responds. 

“Great, how would you like to hang with your friends tomorrow?” Jeffrey asks.

“Of course, I’ve been working all week, only went out last night for dinner with Robert.” Jason responds knowing his brother’s schedule in detail.

“There might be a way for you to actually go out tomorrow night but first we have a few details to sort out.” Todd and Jeffrey leave, then a cute redhead comes in with a suitcase, followed by another man with a rack full of clothes. 

“Garrett, My name is Lynn and I’m here to cut your hair and clean you up. I have pics from your dinner the last night.” 

She heads into the bathroom, sets up a chair and opens a case full of clippers, brushes and bottles. From a portfolio, she pulls out close-up pictures taken of Garrett at the restaurant.  Garrett takes a seat and she starts wetting his hair and trimming away his messy locks. This is followed by a shave, manicure and eyebrow trim.  She works wax into his hair, showing him how, so he can achieve the same look on his own. Garrett is stunned when she finishes and holds the mirror for him. He feels his face, runs his hands through his cowlick, grins, then softens it to his brother’s typical suave smile.

“This is perfect Lynn, thank you so much! I’d tip you but don’t  have a wallet even.” He apologizes.

“No problem Garrett, just glad I could help. Oh, Ted brought in some clothes for you, just help yourself.” With that she packs up and leaves.

Garrett rotates around to his mirror still in shock by his appearance. He lifts up his t-shirt and feels his abs. His scars have completely healed, except for the new scar on his kneecap. He’s been working out every morning to better define his muscles, especially his new six pack. The haircut and shave completes his new identity.

At the rack, he recognizes most of the clothes as duplicates of Garrett’s favorites. It’s amazing, it’s a scaled down version of his closet with his favorite suits, sport coats, ties, shoes, even worn jeans, Harvard t-shirts and Under Armour sneakers he favors on the weekend. He quickly strips out of the plain t-shirt and jeans issued to him and starts putting on ‘his’ regular street clothes—his Levis, Harvard t-shirt, and sneakers.  On the top shelf is a duplicate of his wallet with all the IDs including his Congressional ID, an iPhone and keys in Garrett’s Harvard key chain. He stares in the mirror, looking exactly like his brother, amazed at the transformation.

When he finishes up, the door opens. It’s Jeffrey, Todd and a hot blonde that looks eerily similar to Jennifer Hastings.

“Well, you clean up well Garrett.” Jeffrey notes.

“Yeah, I feel and look like myself finally.” Jason plays along. “I’d love to go out as him in public.”

“We may have a way to let you do that.” Todd chimes in.

“We know you’re feeling like a caged animal and thought you might as well start  getting accustom to your new life and we have a way to do that.” Jeffrey adds.

“You can say that again, I’m so ready to assume my new identity. What do you have in mind?”

“Well, You’re leaving bright and early Sunday morning for the week right?”

“Yeah, I’m heading to Wisconsin to meet with party members. Lance is picking me up about 7am, I need to pack either tonight or tomorrow and meet up with my friends to watch the Harvard basketball game at the Nickel.”

“You’ll be at the Nickel with them, while Garrett is with Jessica.” He smiles and points at our guest. “He’ll miss Jennifer so badly that he’ll have to take her home. We’ll text him as Mark, changing the meeting time to earlier. He’ll meet Jessica, drink, she’ll drug him, get him home and you’re on for the night.”

“That sounds great, what if he wakes up and wants to go to the bar.” “Oh, he won’t be waking up or remembering anything about the night other than hot sex and guilt. Then the next morning he’ll be scrambling just to make his flight.”Jessica smiles and promises. 

Audition

Early Saturday morning Jason is anxiously watching live video feeds from his future townhouse. Garrett gets up, does 45 minutes of intense cardio with his Peloton trainer then has scrambled eggs. Jason does the same, even the same breakfast.  He watches his brother’s routine for about the 50th time, paying close attention to his hair regimen. Jason copies his brother’s outfit exactly except for the Harvard class ring Garrett never takes off. 

Garrett spends the afternoon packing for his trip tomorrow.  He lays out a sports coat, jeans and sweater for the plane ride, then packs 4 suits, 7 shirts and ties, casual pants, jeans and workout gear for the week.  He’s meticulous with coordinating matching ties and shirts with specific suits. This is all being recorded on video for Jason and the ‘Team’.  

After lunch, Garrett’s buddy Mark texts him, letting him know he’ll be at the Nickel early to watch the Penn State game and Garrett agrees to meet him at 5pm instead of 7:30pm as was the plan. It wasn’t really Mark but appeared to be in the text message. Garrett continues to pack his luggage, then his briefcase, adding files and financial statements to review with the Wisconsin team. 

At 4pm, Garrett jumps in the shower then dresses in his typical jeans, Harvard t-shirt, boots, apple watch, necklace and class ring. Jason puts on a very similar outfit, minus the jewelry and heads to the neighborhood. 

Garrett is at the Nickel early waiting for Mark and starts drinking a beer. Jessica approaches him just as he was about to text someone, probably Mark.  She’s hot enough to distract a gay celibate catholic priest and Garrett is immediately under her spell.  The ‘Team’ knew this was going to be easy when earlier in the day, Jennifer called, said she was filming a night scene and their FaceTime sex would have to wait till later.

Jessica has him exactly where she want him—kissing her neck, then mouth and discreetly feeling her up. She whispers something into his ear and he’s jumping off the chair. It’s two blocks from the Nickel to Garrett’s townhouse and they make it back in record time. Jason lags behind, out of sight and watching the iPad feed as they enter the townhouse. 

They’re ripping the clothes off each other and start going at it fiercely. The drug she slipped in his beer is starting to take affect as he starts to slur.  She tells him she needs a condom from her purse. She fishes one out and he starts kissing her again. Hidden in her hand is a small needle that she stabs into his neck. He fucks her quickly then collapses onto his back and passes out. Jessica waves to where she thinks the camera is. That’s Jason’s cue to enter the townhouse. He’s been waiting in a car with Todd, just down the street. He casually enters via the rear door, using his 2nd set of keys and heads right to the bedroom.

“Oh honey, I’m home.” Jason greets Jessica walking into the bedroom.

“Wow you look just like him.” She smiles as Jason approaches her with a deep passionate kiss.

“Who’s better?” He asks, anxious to upstage his brother. 

She kisses Jason again. “Oh, definitely you.”

Jason strips out of his clothes, tossing them on the chair, careful to not mix them with his brother's. He drags his lookalike off the bed, letting him hit the floor hard, then jumps into the bed patting it for Jessica to join him.  He fucks her, using a condom out of the dresser drawer. 45 minutes later Jessica is dressing herself.

“Are we good here?” She asks.

“Fuck I needed that, it’s been months. Thank you.” Garrett props himself up against the headboard, places his hands on the back of his head, grinning and proud of himself. 

“No, Thank you.” She crawls on top of him, rubbing against his crotch, kissing him again.

“How long will sleeping beauty be out?” He asks just to be sure.

“He’ll be lucky to catch his flight tomorrow morning. He won’t stir for 11-12 hours.”

“He won’t wake up at all?”

“Not at all, have fun out with your friends Garrett.”

She leaves the new Garrett alone with the original. He starts pulling Garrett’s outfit off the floor, pulling it all on himself, loving the thought of being Garrett for the night. He pulls on his brother’s 2xist boxer briefs, Diesel jeans, Harvard t-shirt, socks and Chelsea boots. He rolls up the cuff of his pants just like his brother prefers. He then takes off his brother’s jewelry,  slips on his Apple Watch, necklace and Harvard class ring. He admires the ring’s perfect fit and substantial feel. He runs to the  bathroom and in the mirror is Garrett Cook, tucking in his shirt and fixing his hair.

As he’s checking his appearance, Garrett’s iPad rings with an incoming FaceTime call from Jennifer. He eagerly answers, using his new fingerprint to unlock it easily.

“Babe, what a great surprise. I thought you were going to call tomorrow after shooting?” Jason answers excitedly. “I have a break and thought I’d show you something.” She zooms out, revealing some sexy black see-through, lacy lingerie.

“Oh babe, I can’t wait to see it in person.” Jason is instantly aroused again while unconsciously using his brother's 'babe' with her. Stepping into his brother's sex life is a huge turn on for him.

“These are for your eyes only, picked them up locally as a gift for you. You sounded so disappointed earlier when I couldn’t see you.”

“I was, I miss you so much. I want to strip them from you slowly, as I’m kissing and fondling you.”  Jason has his pants down and is stroking himself, he backs out the iPad to show Jennifer while she’s pulling out, showing herself fingering her pussy. It’s their usual routine and they both moan and climax together.

“Oh babe I miss you so much. I even thought of flying to Rome to surprise you, to see you on set but Robert’s campaign is heating up and I don’t have time. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t feel bad, I’ll see you in two weeks.”

“Yes, and we’ll take a week and go someplace we can be alone.” Jason uses every bit of information he gathered from Garrett’s feeds, chats and texts. They hang up and Jason just smiles to himself, thinking how easy this is going to be. He is enjoying the night so far—cyber and actual sex within hours.

 The new Garrett cleans himself up, grabs his favorite leather jack and heads to the bar. He’s in full Garrett mode, at their usual table early, recognizing and greeting everyone like old friends as they arrive. His new friends have no clue he’s not Garrett. He plays Garrett to the core—yelling at his favorite players, cracking jokes, downing his usual low carb beer and nuts. They’re at the Nickel till midnight and Jason has no problem assuming his brother identity and fitting in with his friends. 

Jason notices Todd and Ted nearby watching the night unfold. When ‘Garrett’ heads to the men’s room for a break, Todd joins him to make sure everything is fine. Jason assures him the night is perfect and he’s having a great time. Back home the imposter strips out of his clothes and jewelry, leaving everything a mess. To make sure his brother makes his flight, Jason sets alarm for 5am on his iPhone.

As expected, Garrett is late getting up, never showers and runs out the door to Lance’s car. The team tracks his phone making sure he’s in the air, then Jason heads to his future office. There’s a major test for today that the team needs completed—the new Garrett will be heading into the Senate office building to place bugs in Senator Gehris’ office and all of his staff. Being the dedicated political hack, Garrett is known to go into the office on weekends to ‘catch up’. It will also be a test of his new fingerprints. 

Jason first changes into one of his brother’s preppy casual Sunday outfits—khaki slacks, shirt, boots and sports coat. He’s lacking his brother’s class ring and Tag watch because they’re now on the way to Wisconsin but security won’t be concerned about that. Last night Jason was sure to swap their gov’t ID just to be safe with security. He’s nervous as he approaches security, places his hand on the scanner but it instantly approves, his pic pops up for security and he’s waved though. 

Jason has never been to Capitol Hill before and is in awe just being there. Thanks to the team’s research, he easily locates the Senator’s office on the 2nd floor. One of the ornate gold keys opens up the main door. The main receptionist area is very regal with a few leather sofas, dark mahogany paneling, and traditional desk for Trudy. Garrett’s name plaque on a door makes it easy to find his new office. The other ornate key opens his office door and the third key, probably opens Robert’s office. He knocks on the Senator’s door, gets no response then opens the door with the last key to be certain. 

Walking into ‘his’ office, Jason is impressed with how well it is decorated and laid out. He walks around picking up his Harvard coffee mug, then notices his diplomas on the wall behind his desk. Sitting down in his overstuffed chair gives him an overwhelming sense of power. He goes through the drawers and files, getting familiar with the layout. On his shelfs are some of his law books, his prized baseball under glass, signed by Billy Bean years ago. He takes off his sports coat and hangs it on the coat rack that’s in the corner.  The view out his window is of the courtyard with a fountain. It may not be the Capitol Rotunda but it’s still a great office with nice view. 

Back at his desk, Jason carefully removes the bugs and fiber optic cameras that were hidden in his briefcase. There’s an app on his iPhone which scans an enclosed space for electronic surveillance equipment like cameras, microphones and tracking devices. He tucks his brother’s homeland security proposal over the iPhone and heads out to scan the office suite. He does same for Robert’s office. The app confirms there’s no cameras or bugs, but it does find a lot of tracking devices embedded in computers and other pricey electronics to prevent theft. 

Once he’s sure no one is watching, he places them throughout his brother’s office, lobby and ‘bullpen’ where most of his staff works. As pretense to be in the Senator’s office, Jason picks up his brother’s homeland security proposal, reads it then hand carries it to the Senator’s office. If there are cameras the scan missed, they’ll see Garrett walk in the door, pause at the conference table to double check his work, then head to the desk, pausing to scan the document  one final time before leaving it for his boss. What any cameras would miss, is him placing bugs at the conference table and the senator’s desk. He avoids putting cameras in the Senator’s office for now. 

Jason is in the Senate office building all day learning his way around his new office, building and capitol complex. He’s been studying the layout for weeks and it really comes in handy walking around the complex. He heads over to the capitol building via the private people mover enjoying unlimited access. He is pleased with his skill fitting in at the capitol complex. With his ID badge in place, and new fingerprints, he’s Garrett Cook without a doubt. At the end of the day, he heads back to the farmhouse to brief the team on his success.

Substitution

The real Garrett is having a very busy but productive week in Wisconsin, rallying the faithful to Senator Gehris’ side and it appears to be working. Jason listens in on all the strategy conference calls, reads emails and text messages. He secretly joins a Wisconsin wide Webex his brother gives to the troops, that he’ll have to give many times. These trips are a great learning tool for Jason because everything his brother does is via his phone and computer. It's a front row seat to Garrett's life.

Jennifer calls him and mentions her new lace lingerie. He’s clueless but answers that he can’t wait to see them in person when she gets back—it didn’t raise questions with either of them. The rest of the chat is about her needing a break, the movie and her fights with the director. 

The bugs planted in the Senate office are working perfectly. They're capturing everything and everyone Garrett deals with daily. From the basic morning routine of getting coffee and office gossip, to the Monday morning staff meetings held by Garrett even when he's traveling. Everything is falling into place and the team is thrilled with Jason’s performance so far. He’s stuck at the farm but they are letting him go into town for lunch with Todd who’s still grilling him about his new life. Knowing Garrett’s early history is easy as they were side by side for all of it. It’s his more current life, after college that is the biggest challenge for Jason but he is a quick learner. 

While Garrett is away, Jeffrey lets Jason have some freedom providing he takes precaution in public. Jason puts on some old jeans, baggy hoodie, baseball cap, old sneakers and fake glasses to disguise himself. He’s anxious assume his brother’s life and heads over to his brother’s townhouse to explore and get comfortable with everything. Surveillance shows that Mr.s Finnegan, Garrett’s nosy neighbor, works at the Smithsonian Air and Space gift shop.  She leaves for work every day at 8:30am and get home at 6:00pm like clockwork. This gives him all day at his new place to play Garrett. 

On Monday He gets there a little early and waits for the neighbor to leave.  Once ‘home’, he strips out of his disguise, grabs his brother’s shorts, a t-shirt and joins a Peloton class. Todd is pushing him daily to work out and eat properly and it’s paying off but it’s a lot of work. His body is in the best shape it’s been since college. After working out, he showers and towels off admiring all his hard work. He’s the spitting image of his brother. 

“I’m Garrett Cook.” Jason thinks to himself in the mirror, “I’m going out to lunch as I would normally do today.” Jason is tire of being stuck on the farm, studying his brother and working out. He needs a life, his brother’s life.

Jason uses his brother’s electric toothbrush and personal hygiene products, getting himself ready for work. On his valet stand is the outfit that Garrett wore to work on Friday. He remembers his brother dressing in the morning and seeing pics of him at Club 122 with Lance on his Instagram. Jason wants his new scent on himself so he digs out his brother’s socks and underwear from the hamper and slips them on. The suit pants, shirt and tie follow easily because when he took everything off, he left the belt and cufflinks in place. The tie is tricky because he has always hated ties and rarely wears them. He pulls on the suit coat noticing the lapel pin still in place. From the dresser he borrows his brother’s Omega watch, snaps it on his wrist and marvel at its details and quality. 

Jason pulls his duplicate wallet from his jeans, adds it to his breast pocket the suit. In the mirror ‘Garrett’ stares in the mirror and smiles. He unlocks his iPhone and googles Club 122. It’s not far from Georgetown and has a great casual menu. “Garrett Cook is headed there for lunch.” He plans in his mind.

The phone rings showing a call from Todd.

“Garrett Cook, how may I help you?” Jason answers while watching himself in the mirror.

“You do realize we have cameras on you right?” Todd muses.

“Of course.” He lies, he totally forgot.

“You going out?”

“Just for lunch, just to test my new identity. Look at me, I’m the epitome of my brother.” Jason turns to face the camera hidden in the vent. 

“Okay, just keep away from his usual haunts. We can’t risk you running into someone who know he’s in Wisconsin.”

“It’s just lunch, far away from Capitol Hill, he only goes there with Lance to talk shop after work. They’re both out of town. Don’t worry.”

He takes his brother’s BMW out without hesitating. ‘Garrett’ takes a seat at the bar and the bartender recognizes him immediately with a low carb beer and asks if he wants the Cobb salad. Jason just rolls with it, enjoying his lunch and catching up on his brother’s day in Wisconsin. He’s loving his new identity, being out in public and respected as Garrett. He keeps checking his appearance in the mirror behind the bar. 

After lunch, Garrett gets a phone call from Paul Nelson, an old college friend who’s in DC for a conference. Using the cloned phone, Jason intercepts the call and talks to him. Since he’ll be taking over his brother’s life this weekend, Jeffrey and Todd allow another outing to meet Paul for happy hour in a few hours.  They meet at Tyson’s Corner, a large mall well outside of Washington where no one is likely to recognize Garrett or know that he’s out of town. His brother often talked about his college roommate Paul—the parties, professors, girls, classes and working out. Todd singled out Paul as a key contact and tested Jason on their friendship for weeks. It all comes back to Jason as he easily fools him for hours, having dinner afterwards. Paul brings up being interviewed by the FBI for his security clearances which Garrett uses to pump his friend for more information on their relationship. From this point forward, Paul will only be communicating with the new Garrett.

The rest of the week ‘Garrett’ visits his townhouse during the day, getting first hand experience at ‘home’ learning the details of his future life. He’s totally relaxed as he makes himself comfortable and explores all his personal belongings —home computer, files, college year book, DVR and wardrobe. By the end of the week, Jeffrey and Todd are convinced that it’s time to make the switch. Garrett  should be home late Saturday night.  The plan is to call him early, while he’s half awake, saying there’s an emergency at Lisa’s grandparents place outside of Bethesda and get him to the farm. 

Identity Switch

Garrett gets home late as planned, drags his luggage into the bedroom and collapses onto his bed. Sunday morning the Team watches him start to wake up and has Lisa call while he’s half awake. He doesn’t has time to think about what he’s doing or tell anyone. It’s a convincing story that Jason was riding a four wheeler, had an accident and isn’t doing good. Garrett tosses on his outfit from yesterday—jeans, a black v-neck sweater, tan suede Chelsea boots and a black/brown/tan large plaid sports coat. He then rushes out the door for the 45 minute drive to the farm.  He’s being tracked and monitored via his iPhone which has been hacked to prevent incoming and outgoing calls for the trip. 

From a monitor in Garrett’s future jail, Jason watches Garrett pull up in his BMW, huff up the steps and tuck his sunglasses into the V-neck of his sweater. Jeffrey and two armed men with guns are waiting behind the front door to greet him. Jeffrey opens the door before he even has a chance to knock.

“You must be Garrett, you look just like your brother.” Jeffrey greets Garrett with a big smile and invites him in. In seconds the door slams shut and Garrett has one gun pointed in his face and another poked into the back of his skull. 

“What’s going on? Where’s my brother?” Garrett asks nervously.

“Oh you’ll see him soon enough, follow me.” Jeffrey orders. 

Garrett is confused and scared at the same time. They lead him down a few flights of stairs, then into a secured room where Jason is waiting in sweatpants and Harvard t-shirt.

“Hey bro, you made it. Thanks for coming.” Jason greets his brother as he’s shoved through the door.

Garrett  looks at him oddly. “What’s going on? What’s with the guns? Lisa said you were hurt.”

“Just a little white lie bro.” Jason grins. 

“You’ve changed your hair.” Garrett notices right away.

“Yeah, I’ve cleaned myself up, and even ditched the tattoo you made fun of.” He pulls up his sleeve. “I had my wisdom teeth removed, liposuction, dieted and lost 30 pounds. I started working out and drinking protein shakes, just like you.” 

“I don’t understand, why all the changes? What’s going on?”

“Check these babies out.” Jason pulls up his t-shirt, pulls down his sweatpants,  showing off his abs and v-cut.

“Uhm, you look like me, and why are you wearing a Harvard t-shirt?” He asks puzzled. 

“Bro, Remember when I got you into Harvard by taking the SAT for you?”

“Yeah, that was part of it.” He counters.

“How about the other part, where I wrote your admissions essay?” Jason reminds him.

“You helped and you were always better with spewing bullshit. What is this all about?”  Garrett asks in a nervous tone. 

“We’re trading places for a few months. I’ll be Garrett Cook—Harvard grad and trusted chief of staff for Senator Gehris.”

“You’re taking over my identity?” It starts to sink in and he’s very confused.

“Now you’ve got it bro. So, step one, you need to strip completely. Right now!” Jason demands.

“You won’t get away with this, you’ll be caught as soon as you step inside the Senate office building and have your fingerprints scanned.” He warns. 

“Don’t worry about that bro, we’re truly identical. My fingerprints were altered to match your’s completely. They worked great last Sunday when ‘you’ went into the office before your flight to Wisconsin. Now please, strip so we don’t have to use force.” The new Garrett orders.

Garrett reluctantly strips down to his underwear, nervously placing everything on the sofa.

“Did I say stop? Everything bro, including your class ring.”  Jason nods to Garrett’s hand.

Garrett strips completely, laying his underwear and jewelry on top of his sweater. Jason strips out of his sweatpants, t-shirt and tosses them on the chair away from  Garrett. The new Garrett walks over to his brother, places his hand on his shoulder. They’re standing naked, side by side.

“What do you think guys? Two peas in a pod?” The new Garrett asks as the new Jason shoves his brother’s hand off his shoulder in disgust. Jeffrey, Todd and the doctor just stare at them.

“Wow, amazing work Doc, even the scar on the knee.” Todd comments and Jason stares at it shocked.

“Now step over to the chair and put on your clothes ‘Jason’.” The new Garrett orders him like a child and ‘Jason’ complies. 

The new Garrett walks over to the clothes that Garrett just removed and slowly starts dressing. He’s enjoying his transformation, catching glimpses of himself in the nearby mirror. He starts with the white boxer briefs and crazy socks, then steps into his jeans and tightens the belt. Garrett picks up the still warm sweater, sniffs it and pulls it over his head. He takes a seat, grabs his boots and pulls them on. ‘Jason’ is watching his brother dress while already dressed in Jason’s old sweat pants and Harvard t-shirt.  Garrett clips on his new Omega watch, orients and slips on his Harvard class ring and adds the necklace to his identity. He confidently pulls his sport coat on then feels his wallet, keys and phone in the pockets. He pulls out his wallet and checks for cash then puts it back. He’s now the spitting image of Garrett Cook.

“How do I look ‘Jason’?” Garrett cockily asks his brother as he tucks his sunglasses into his sweater's V and checks himself out in the mirror. “I really like my new style. Great casual outfit for a Sunday.” Jason doesn’t utter a word, just stares angrily at the new Garrett.

Todd is enjoying the swap. “You look great Garrett, how’s your old college buddy doing?”

‘Jason’ turns to Todd confused by the question, about to respond but ‘Garrett’ beats him to it. “Oh didn’t I tell you? Paul and Helen are expecting their 2nd child, hoping for a boy after little Mary. I met him for happy hour last Wednesday, remember?”

“You met Paul?” New Jason says shocked.

“Yeah, my old college buddy was in town last week for a conference and we grabbed a drink, then dinner. It was like old times, he hasn’t changed a bit but he thought I matured or something.” 

“What’s the point of pretending to be me Jason?” Garrett demands from the new Garrett.

“Actually, I'm not pretending. For all intents and purposes, I am Garrett Cook but to your point.” He looks at Jeffrey to see if he can share and Jeffrey nods his approval. “One, you’ve been Garrett long enough, Two, my friends here need an ‘inside’ man in Senator Gehris’ inner circle for a while. It’s win-win for all of us but you.”

Todd turns to Jason. “Garrett will accomplish great things for us.”

“The money is great bro, plus the perks are unbelievable—my hot girlfriend Jennifer, great job, beautiful townhouse and nice wardrobe. I really love your Washington lifestyle vs my meager existence in Albany.” Garrett adjusts the sweater sleeves in his sports coat.

The new Jason stares at his brother and can’t get over the transformation. “You fucker, everyone will know you’re not me. Robert, Jennifer, all my friends will know you’re not me.” He starts getting upset.

“Sorry to tell you bro, but I cybered with Jennifer last Saturday while you were passed out on the floor, after cheating on her. Shame on you, I’d never do that to her. It was hot, her fingering her pussy for me, modeling that sexy black lace lingerie.  I can’t wait to see her next Saturday, I miss her so much.”

“Something will trip you up, I’m sure.” Jason predicts.

“Oh, come on bro, our parents and none of our girlfriends could ever tell us apart.” He laughs. “Just look at me, I mean yourself. She’ll never know. You’ve only been dating her for a month. 'My' best and oldest friend Paul didn't suspect a thing.” Garrett brags.

“But I have friends that know me, routines with them, jokes we’ve shared and they do know me.” 

“Yeah, that’s right! Thanks for reminding me. It’s my turn to host poker on Thursday. Think I’ll just have Tony’s Pizza deliver again—the guys will complain but eat it like always.” 

“You fucking asshole!” Jason growls quietly.

The new Garrett goes over to the mirror and checks his appearance, running his hand through his hair, making sure it perfectly matches his brother’s. “Bro, look at me, I’m you down to the smallest detail. Think of this as a little vacation for a few months. We’ve been watching you for months, listening in on your calls, reading text messages. Oh, by the way, I had a blast with my friends last Saturday at the Nickel while you were passed out on the floor. Don’t worry, I covered for you, they didn’t miss you at all. Now I’ve got to get home, unpack and prep for work tomorrow, busy week ahead. Thanks for your notes on my Wisconsin trip, I’ll have my trip summary waiting on Robert’s desk before he gets in tomorrow. Oh wait, Robert is golfing tomorrow.” The new Garrett laughs at his brother, finds his car keys and tosses them in the air as he leaves. 

Jason is left standing stunned in the corner as Garrett looks back at him and smiles. The ‘Team’ leaves, the cell door is slammed shut and locked. Upstairs they continue with their plan.In Place

“How do you feel Garrett?” Todd asks as they head upstairs.

“A little jet lag from yesterday but I’ll be in top form tomorrow morning. I just need to chill today.” 'Garrett' assumes his brother's identity and twists his Harvard class ring. “Oh guys, I need my real gov’t ID and access card. I want everything to be authentic, down to the smallest details. I’m sure your duplicates are fine but I’d rather not take any chances.”

As they head to the living room, Garrett stops by his old room and grabs his real government IDs, tosses the fakes on the dresser.  He places everything back in his wallet. “Burn all that shit. I don’t want any trace of it.”

“From this point on, you are the one and only Garrett Marcus Cook and have to think of yourself as Garrett completely.” Jeffrey reminds him.

“Of course, who else would I be?” Garrett responds condescendingly and shoots Jeffrey dirty looks. “Guys, I have a lot to do today—luggage to unpack, laundry to do, reports to complete, work out, Facetime my girlfriend and find something to wear for tomorrow.”

“We won’t keep you Garrett.” Todd promises.

Todd and Jeffrey smile and  shake their heads rushes out the door. Garrett runs out to his BMW, jumps in, put on his Oakley sunglasses, pulls down his visor and checks himself out in the mirror. He is grinning as he heads back to start his new life. A few miles down the road, he stops for gas at a 7-Eleven enjoying his new identity just pumping gas, using his debit card and feeling his new outfit on him. As he finishes pumping, Garrett catches his reflection in the window of the BMW and it surprises himself. He is in heaven driving home to ‘his’ beautiful townhouse in Georgetown.  While driving, he admires his Harvard class ring and watch as he grasps the steering wheel. All the resentment and jealously now belongs to the imposter locked in a basement cell 30 miles away.

As he’s getting closer to Washington, his phone rings showing Robert Gehris on the caller ID.

“Robert, Good morning.” He greets his new boss without any hesitation or second thoughts of who he is now. In his mind he’s now completely Garrett Cook. 

“How was your trip, make it back okay?”

“Great trip, no problem getting back, just heading for breakfast.”

“What restaurant serves protein shakes?” Robert mocks him.

“Egg whites and turkey sausage.” Garrett responds as his usual health conscious self.

“I should have known that. Hey, I’m on with Elon tomorrow. Can you hold down the fort, keep Trudy on her toes?”

“Sure thing, was planning on it. Make sure to let him win. Wisconsin is in great shape, I’ll work on the summary today and it’ll be on your desk first thing tomorrow.” The new Garrett effortlessly uses the old Garrett’s lingo, that he heard over the past months.

“Great! At the hearing tomorrow don’t say a word to Cooper about the funding increase I’m sneaking into the budget. It’ll help me look strong on defense, diffuse Kelly’s one talking point.”

“You know me, I would never slip up like that.” The new Garrett knows exactly what Robert is talking about and is in complete control.

“I do know you, that’s for sure. Also, glance over my speech for the Chamber when you get a chance and don’t work too much today. Enjoy your Sunday.” He hangs up.

That was a major unexpected test, and Garrett passed easily with flying colors. It’s a beautiful Sunday morning and his new life is great.  He takes his time driving home, stopping at a little diner that he frequents and actually has a healthy breakfast. While eating, he checks his Instagram, text Jessica and goes through his wallet item by item to know where everything is. Kim, his waitress, brings his usual breakfast, then starts asking about his girlfriend.

He pulls into his garage a little before noon. A grin of satisfaction sweeps across his face as he walks into his townhouse.  There’s a knock at the door a minute later and he opens it without hesitation.

“Garrett, welcome home, good trip?” Mrs. Finnegan greet him and hands him his mail.

“Great trip Mrs. Finnegan, I feel like a new man! Thanks for everything, did the plants give you any trouble?” Garrett uses a joke his brother used when asking her to plant sit.

“Oh Garrett, I had to break up a fight between your ficus plant and the cactus.” 

“Thank you, I really appreciate it and will keep an eye on them.” Garrett laughs at her joke.

Mrs. Finnegan leaves and Garrett eases into his new life, checking out everything with no concerns about being there. He is now Garrett Cook and this is his home. First he unpacks his luggage, separating the laundry and dry cleaning, throwing a load into his washer. 

Per instructions from the ‘Team’ he removes all bugs and cameras from the townhouse, then uninstalls all software from his gov’t issue computer.  Now that the new Garrett is in place, there’s no need for them.

Garrett’s friend Jonathan calls, wanting to grab lunch and he accepts. They head to ‘Papa Joe's’ where Garrett gets his standard salad and carb free beer. It’s a fun time and  Jonathan doesn’t seem to notice anything different about his friend. Garrett is enjoying being his brother with another friend, totally assuming his identity flawlessly. They talk about their jobs, golf outing and girlfriends. Garrett discusses the poker night at his place as is usual for him and his friends. Lunch is effortless and fun. 

After lunch, Garrett heads into the office to work on his notes and trip summary. It takes hours, watching videos of his various meeting and matching them to ‘his’ notes but he’s enjoying being Garrett. As is habit, he drops off the report on his boss’ desk. Hours of being there gives Garrett a sense of power, realizing he’s now part of the Washington elite. He walks around exploring the entire complex. His ID and fingerprints give him complete access to go anywhere in the Capitol complex. Most importantly, he locates the cafeteria where he eats most days and the various conference rooms mentioned in meeting notices and emails. His biggest concern is Senate protocol and rules. From video footage of public hearings, it appears the staffers sit there quietly, sometimes whispering in the Senator’s ear to add information. Garrett is always on the right side of the Senator in every meeting. 

Keeping Garrett’s routine with Jennifer,  he FaceTimes her at 6pm which is almost bedtime for her. She’s in a new pair of sexy, hot pink lingerie.

“Babe, you take my breath away. I love your surprises.” He drools.

“I can’t wait to model them for you in person, all night long.” She’s rubbing herself.

“I have a surprise for you.” Garrett had ordered sheer Under Armour underwear. They were delivered a few days ago while he was away and never worn. He backs out the camera showing off his throbbing hard-on.

“Oh babe, they look so sexy on you.” Jennifer giggles and squeals in excitement. 

“Oh fuck Jen, you don’t know the danger you’re in when you get home. I miss you so much.” He expertly moves the camera down his chest, to his new six pack abs, ending up showing him rubbing his erect penis under his new underwear. 

Garrett has seen about 5 of these sessions, participated as Garrett in one but he practiced his ‘moves’ replicating his brother’s perfectly. Sex with Jennifer will be the ultimate test of his new identity and he’s confident he’ll ace it. 

“Oh Garrett, I need to feel you in me.” She moans as she’s fingering herself.

Hearing her moaning his new name causes him to explode immediately. “Fuck babe, fuck!!” 

Jennifer follows seconds later. “I so needed that Garrett, I love you.” 

“I love you too, I feel like jumping on a jet right now to see you.” He’s repeating what Garrett  suggested to his friends.

“Just another week, then I’m all your’s.”

Garrett finishes up, lays back in his bed completely satisfied with his performance. It was easier the second time with no fear of being discovered as a fraud. He puts his hands behind his head, smiles and thinks to himself “You are Garrett Marcus Cook.” 

Garrett cleans himself up then starts going through his mail, email and finally his bank account. Thanks to the keystroke trackers, he memorized all his new passwords. This is one of Garrett’s routines—Sunday nights are for checking his bank account and paying bills. Everything is all set up. Once logged in, it’s simple to pay bills just as Garrett does. 

For dinner Garrett  throws on his sports coat, adopting his standard preppy look and heads to the Nickel for a quick bite. Tony the bartender hands him a beer and orders his usual grilled chicken sandwich. Minutes later Mark and Amy show up unexpectedly and joins their friend. He fills them in on his trip—how cold it was, that he didn’t pack properly for it and how he misses Jennifer. His friends are clueless he’s not Garrett and invite him and Jennifer out next Sunday when she’s back. 

Jason ends his first day as Garrett thrilled with the ease he assumed his identity—from handling Robert to hanging with Mark and Amy.  

First Day of Work

Garrett is excited for his ‘first day’ back in the office after his trip. He is up earlier than normal but follows his usual routine, starting with his Peloton workout. Randy, his coach really whips his ass, shouting out to him and pushing him hard since he missed a few days while traveling. Garrett is as totally hooked on Peloton as the old Garrett was. He follows his workout with his usual protein shake for breakfast.

Garrett heads to the bathroom, stares in the mirror, rubs his six pack and thinks to himself, ‘I love my Harvard gear’ then pulls off his damp Harvard t-shirt.  The work the team performed on him is amazing. He checks out the inside of his mouth and looks at his non-cavity that the real Garrett had fixed by his dentist down the street. His gums have healed completely after the wisdom teeth surgery. He looks for any trace of the tattoo on his shoulder—he gently rubs the area in awe that there’s no evidence of it ever being there. 

He’s sweaty from his 45 minute workout and takes his time showering then prepping for work. He’s watched all the morning routine videos that fill an iCloud account. Everything he does in the bathroom, mirrors his brother’s routine to the ’T’. Garrett dabs a little wax into his palm, rubs it around to warm it up, then works it into his hair. His comb through, gives him his usual dapper look that’s similar to JFK’s hair style. Garrett uses his electric shaver and toothbrush without thinking. A swipe of his Tom Ford deodorant, and spritz of his matching Tom Ford cologne completes his grooming routine. He smiles wickedly in the mirror as he now has his brother’s scent. 

Garrett’s Instagram is full of him and his suited friends at various happy hour at bars.  He’s been studying and scouring his brother’s social media for weeks now, noting details like friends, location, comments and what he wears. His brother definitely has a very preppy, conservative style. Garrett mockingly thinks of it as  ‘Harvard in your face’ look but loves embracing it. It makes it easy for the new Garrett to duplicate his brother’s persona.

Jason never owned a good suit—one that costs more than $200 but the new Garrett loves his wardrobe. It’s full of very conservative, expensive Tom Ford, Brooks Brothers, Polo and Brioni suits. He scans his suits, looking for something that screams ‘Garrett Cook’.  He pulls a few suits off the rod and holds them in front of himself as he studies himself in the mirror. A charcoal suit catches his attention and looks really familiar—it’s a Tom Ford 3 piece suit. He remembers pics of him wearing this same suit a few weeks ago. It’s fall and today is probably the coldest day of the year so far, so this is the perfect choice. He pulls it off the rod then focuses on a tie…. A Harvard tie of course. 

On the wall next to his shirts, is his collection of Harvard ties, all crimson in color with either a crest pattern or collegiate rep  pattern. There must be 30 Harvard ties, and quite a few bowties. He selects one that’s clearly visible in a few recent Instagram pics and drapes it around the suit neck.  For the shirt, he goes with his Ike Behar custom blue shirt with contrasting white French cuffs and collar, and ‘GMC’ monogramming on the sleeve. For shoes, Garrett sticks with his black wingtips he wore last week in Wisconsin. 

Garrett lays everything out on his bed, double checking the outfit to make sure it says ‘Garrett Cook’.  The image is the easy aspect to master since his brother purchased all the clothes in the closet. The new Garrett has to maintain the image and not do anything out of character. When he was staying with his brother a few weeks ago, he noticed his brother’s love for colorful socks and noticed his drawer had only a few pairs of solid dark color socks. He selects a pair of his brothers Under Armour boxer briefs and charcoal/gray stripe socks to start his outfit.

Slowly the new Garrett gets dressed for a typical day in the office. He steps into his pants, pulls them up then notices a belt is not needed—the suit has adjustable side tabs and no belt loops. The pant waist is a perfect fit with no need for adjusting the tabs. He wiggles into his untied wingtips that feel great on his feet. Garrett pulls on the dress shirt without a t-shirt, per his brother’s lifelong routine. It’s tapered for his waist and again, a perfect fit for him. He tucks it in, then realizes he needs cufflinks.  At his jewelry box, he selects Harvard cufflinks and adds them to his cuffs. It takes a little getting use to since Jason never wore cufflinks. While at the jewelry box, Garrett finds a beautiful white gold Rolex and snaps it on his wrist with care. In the mirror, he pulls on his lapel vest, grabs his Harvard tie and duplicate his brother’s method. It takes him a few tries to produce the knot his brother usually ties with little effort but he’s satisfied with it. He makes final adjustment of the tie, buttons up his vest and confidently pulls on the suit coat.

In front of the mirror, the new Garrett Cook, chief of staff for Senator Gehris, stares at himself. Garrett checks out every little detail for his first day back at work. He runs his hand through his hair and realizes it’s perfect. He checks his cufflinks, adjusts tie knot and smiles. His new Rolex and class ring completes his image. As he’s adding his wallet and phone to his coat, he notices his name stitched in gold, inside the jacket.  He smiles at himself, then reviews his appearance from head to toe. Something is missing, Garrett opens up his Instagram and spots it immediately—his Senate lapel pin he always wears. He searches for it in his jewelry box, then on his dresser then finally finds it on the lapel of the suit he wore a week ago before heading to Wisconsin. Back at the mirror, Garrett carefully adds his lapel pin taking satisfaction that his image is perfect, down to the smallest detail.

He arrives at work an hour early, the first person in the office, anxious to get started. Garrett hangs his coat in his closet but leaves on the lapel vest. The computer is booted up and connected to the network. His calendar, full of hearings, staff meetings, election strategy meetings and training opens up automatically. Garrett preps for events weeks and even months ahead which really helps the new Garrett. On his computer are reams of notes for upcoming hearings.  

People start strolling in, popping into his office or greeting him at the coffee machine. He greets them one by one, recognizing and putting faces to the names that litter his texts, emails and phone conversations.  Things start falling into place. Garrett has access to Senator Gehris’ schedule which is important to the ‘team’, but also for his new job. They overlap a lot, including an invitation to the Whitehouse for dinner with the president and the prime minister of the United Kingdom. In his drawer he finds the actual engraved invitation and admires it. 

Since Senator Gehris is out of the office golfing with Tesla executives, he’s in charge. There’s an email from the senator reminding Garrett to do a few things like the Chamber of Commerce speech. He uses his intern Steve, to help with some items, while Garrett attends a hearing on veterans benefits. On his computer are previous meeting notes he typed up, all he has to do is add to the notes following his brother’s succinct style. 

Lance stops by thanking him for his support last week and they grab lunch in the Senate cafeteria. He follows Lance’s lead at the cafeteria, letting him go first though the line and picking a table.  Thanks to weeks of listening to Garrett’s phone call and chats, he easily converses with his friend. At the judicial hearing, he has this overwhelming sense of history and self importance—Senator Gehis is counting on him. He sits in the hearing, taking notes and making a few statements on the Senator’s position. Back at his desk he discovers a print out of the Senator’s Chamber speech in his inbox`. His brother was kind enough to have already critique it and make notes in the margins to raise with Senator Gehris. This makes that discussion really simple now. 

Garrett passes on happy hour and works till 7pm —the first to arrive, the last to leave. He was on edge all day but did a great job keeping it together and nobody seemed to notice anything or raise in eyebrow. In his desk drawer is a bottle of Crown Royal whiskey and shot glass. He helps himself to a shot and packs up. 

Back for Information

Garrett heads to the farm after work to meet with the Team, report on his first day and get information from ‘Jason’. He still doesn’t have a clue who he’s working for but it doesn’t matter—he needed a new life and this is perfect. He’s enjoying every aspect of being his brother.

Jeffrey greets him at the door as dinner is being served in the dining room. 

“Garrett, good to see you, how was work?” 

“Very busy as usual, with Robert out of office, I was running the whole office and his re-election campaign. I’m whipped.” He uses Garrett’s typical altitude and expression easily.

“Any problem fitting in?” Todd asks.

“Not at all, I keep a very detailed schedule and notes for upcoming events, weeks in advanced so I just picked up where I left off last week. It felt really natural for me.” Garrett grabs a plate, helps himself to some dinner.

“We watched and listened in all day,  your performance was dead on as Garrett.” Jeffrey notes.

“Great, how is ‘Jason’ doing? I need some information from him.” Garrett asks.

“He’s upset, he was watching CSPAN earlier and saw himself live in the veterans benefits hearing. It was a shock seeing himself on live TV.” Todd adds.

“Really, I didn’t even notice any cameras, too busy taking notes for Senator Gehris who was out golfing all day. I get to meet him face to face tomorrow but I had a perfect phone conversation with him yesterday. I need more details about my personal relationship with the Senator—how they interact in the office, have lunch together, their routine when meeting.  Also, I’ve been invited to the Whitehouse dinner for the new prime minister of the UK. Think he’ll help me?” Garrett ponders.

“Well, if he won’t, we can fix that with some truth serum.” Jeffrey promises.

“He doesn’t know his fate does he?” Garretts asks.

“No, he thinks this is a temporary scam and he’ll get his life back. I’ve been hanging with him, getting to know him, being his pal to help you with details.” Todd explains.

“Good, he’ll be willing to help me be him then. I’ll play that angle that I’m a little nervous meeting Robert tomorrow for the first time, and don’t want to mess up ‘his’ life.” Garrett explains.

“If he gives you any problems, let me know and he’ll be begging to help you.” Rod, the resident ‘muscle’ offers, cracks his knuckles and grins.

“I know my brother and his image is extremely important to him. When we were growing up, he sweated over having the perfect hair, outfit and image he presented to others. I couldn’t care less, now look at me. Thanks guys.” Garrett jokes with his friends.

Face to Face

Garrett heads to the basement but stops in the bathroom to check his appearance. When he opens the door, his brother’s mouth drops, seeing his double.

“Judging by your expression, I must have your looks nailed bro.” Garrett boasts as he confidently strolls in.

“What the fuck Jason, just let me go and we’ll forget this ever happened.” He yanks at a chain that tethers him to his heavy duty metal bed frame.

“What fun would that be? Remember how we’d swap places in high school? You used to enjoy letting your hair down and pretending to be me. Remember when I had the flu and you took Maria out as me, fucked her in the back of my car. I found out days later. This is pay back. Oh, Jennifer bought some new lingerie and shared with me on FaceTime last night. She is sooo hot bro.” Garrett shakes his hand like he just touched a hot object.

“How long are you going to play this little game? What if you get caught?  You’ll go to jail.” Jason tries to scare Garrett.

“Just a few months bro, after I collect my money, I’ll disappear and you’ll never see me again. You better hope I don’t get caught. If I do, you’ll be the fall guy, which is why I’m here. You’re going to help me be a better you. Not that I need much help but there are still some details only you know and I need to know.”

“Why should I?” He says in a pissed off tone.

“The sooner my friends get what they need, the sooner you’ll be free. It’s that simple, I promise.” Garrett lies though his teeth.

“What do you need from me?” He offers quietly.

“Robert is coming back tomorrow after golfing with Musk today. How do you interact with him? What’s your routine with him? Do you do lunch every day? Coffee?  Memorable events you share? What jokes do you share? Everything to be you with the boss. We talked yesterday as I was heading home. He gave me pointer for today’s hearing, then talked about reviewing his Chamber speech and Wisconsin first thing tomorrow.”

Jason begrudgingly spills his guts. Garrett pulls out his portfolio and takes notes on top of his hearing notes from earlier. The conversation is also being recorded from bugs planted around the room. Jason talks for hours about his friend and mentor. Garrett gets a really good appreciation for their history and routine. He excuses himself and heads to the security office where Todd is waiting for him.

“How did it go? It looks like he’s being honest with you?”

“Yeah, I know my brother and I know when he’s lying. He was never as good of a liar as me. The biggest reason he’s helping is he doesn’t want me messing up his perfect life.” Garrett laughs.

“Good, what else do you need from him?”

“I’m going to get some personal details off him. Things like his style, work habits like lunches, happy hour friends. I need more about Jennifer, how they met, their first kiss, sex and other personal information but I think it’s best to wait a few days, not push him for too much.” Garrett explains.

“Good thinking, I’ve been hanging with him during the day, talking, being friendly to him. We aren’t going to let him shave or cut his hair though. And we’ll change his fingerprints once we are through with him. When they heal, Jason Cook will have a car accident.”

“Good, there’s still a lot he can help me with and as long as his useful, let’s keep him around. Do you have a key for his handcuffs? It might help him feel safer and cooperate if we allow him a little freedom. He really can’t escape with all the cameras and Rod, Nick and Tony on guard.” Garrett notes. 

“Sure, we’ll see how he does.” Todd opens up the desk drawer nearby and tosses it to him.

Garrett re-enters the room, fixing his zipper.

“Are they treating you okay bro?” Garrett asks, trying to sound sincere.

“Food is okay but being handcuffed is uncomfortable.”

“Ha! Those were my thoughts exactly. I got the guard to agree to this.” Garrett uncuffs Jason preparing to be attacked, then realizes his brother is just a wussy political hack without a back bone. Jason rubs his wrist, then heads to the bathroom. 

From the bathroom with no door, Jason yells out. “So I saw myself live on CSPAN today in the Senate hearings on veteran's benefits.”

“Really? I didn’t see any cameras?” Garrett fakes ignorance.

“Yeah, they’re always there but unlike the old days, the cameras are state-of-the-art fiber optics, built into the wood trim. I had a tour the first day I started. They can zoom in on a nose hair but don’t worry, you looked fine today, actually you looked almost just like me.”

“That’s the point bro. Hey wait, what do you mean by ‘almost’? I nailed it, just look at me.” Garrett walks over to the mirror, smiles and admires himself in the mirror. After only a day as Garrett, he’s gotten an appreciation for custom suits and his new professional image.

“I have to admit. The transformation has been amazing. Weeks ago when I first saw you, I thought how different we had become. Now I’m shocked by how identical we are.” Jason acknowledges.

“Yeah, I had to give up fast food completely. And I’m working out like you, with Randy now. I’m even having your breakfast shakes but I’ve notice you haven’t kicked the coffee habit. Thank god, because I couldn’t be doing this if you had.” Garrett complains and jokes with his brother.

“Coffee is the only thing that keeps me going on those 14 hour days. Just wait, you’ll be begging me to take my life back, it’s hardly glamorous.”

“Maybe, the job seems crazy and your schedule is daunting. But parts of it I’m really enjoying. The cyber with Jennifer is so hot bro.”

“Oh yeah, and the sex is even better.” He lets it slip.

“I never realized how awful my wardrobe is. I’m loving the suits.” Garrett jokes to lead the conversation where he wants to take it.

“You fucker, you’re wearing my best suit, my favorite suit.” He berates his brother. 

“It’s a good look on you, on me. I saw it on Instagram and just had to wear it. It’s a perfect fit and adds credibility to my identity.” Garrett checks his tie and shirt cuffs and cufflinks. He faces his brother and confidently runs his hand through his cowlick as is common for his brother.

“You’re not keeping it, don’t even think it and don’t get any stains on it.” Jason warns Garrett, then notices something. “Fuck, that’s my Rolex, isn’t it?”

“Well technically, mine for now. When did you get a Rolex?” Garrett flashes his wrist.

“It was a gift from Robert, for coming up with his campaign slogan and helping him win his Senate seat. It means the world to me. Don’t wear it.” Jason reveals some great personal details Garrett would never know.

“Wow,  what was the slogan, do I know it?” Garrett changes the topic and probes more.

“A New Voice for New York.” He brags.

“Fuck, I did hear that one, that was all you? Even the jingle?”

“Yes, all me.” He sings the jingle for a second.

“Wow, I’m impressed bro, wondered how you were using your law degree. Now I know, doing marketing.” Garrett laughs keeping the conversation light and directing it where he wants it to go.

“Well, It pays better and I’m a natural at politics.”

“Yeah I saw your interview on Fox, how did they put it? Oh yeah, ‘Senator Gehris is a long shot for president though. He doesn’t even have a slogan’.” Garrett gently pumps.

“He hasn’t even announced a run. I'm laying the groundwork for it quietly. I do have the slogan for it, just not sharing it.” Jason points out.

“Yeah but he will. What's the slogan?” Garrett knows because of the bugs in their offices.

“We’re just setting up field offices, the Iowa caucus is six months away, anything can happen but I’m thinking ahead. ‘A New Voice for a New America’ and using the same jingle but on a national level, changing the cities, industries et cetera.” Jason brags his campaign ideas and life away without knowing it. 

“I’ll let you worry about that. If I play the part right, you’ll be back in place to deal with that BS without anyone knowing and no harm done to you.” Garrett lies.

“How long will that be?” Jason asks

“A few months at the most, faster with your help. I want to be on a beach, far away by Christmas.” Garrett lies and makes more false promises. 

“What else do you need to know?” Jason takes the hook.

“Things only Garrett would know so I don’t get discovered.”

“Like what?” 

“Best friend in office? Do you have favorite cufflinks? What you do for lunch every day, with whom, where, what you talk about? All the little stuff you probably don’t think twice about is driving me crazy. All the little stuff.”  Garrett pushes for and gets. 

“You picked the right tie but that knot sucks, who taught you how to tie a tie?”

“You did, when we were 14, remember?” Garrett fires back.

“Oh god, do you even know what a Windsor knot is?” Jason disparagingly questions his brother. 

“I’ve heard of it. I’ll google it tomorrow, is that the only knot you use?” Garrett questions back. 

“Yes, it goes with all my spread collar shirts. Thank god Robert was out of office today, he would have noticed.” Jason goes over to his brother, loosens his tie, pulls it off then pulls it around his neck and ties a perfect windsor knot without a mirror. Garrett is shocked he does it so easily and pays close attention.

“I’ll have to practice that.” Garrett promises.

Jason carefully removes the tie over his head, goes back to his brother, flips up his collar and helps him perfect his Garrett Cook appearance.  Garrett tucks it back in his vest, fixes his collar back down and adjusts his knot.

“Notice the difference?” Jason mockingly asks. "I see you didn’t forget the lapel pin.” 

 “Wow, yes, huge difference bro. I’ll make you proud tomorrow man. Yeah, I almost forgot your Senate lapel pin this morning.” Garrett is learning so much about his new life.  

Jason comes up to him and rotates the lapel pin. “The ‘United States’ should be on top. If you don’t push the clutch in tight, it’ll rotate like it was a minute ago.”

“Wow, you are a stickler for detail aren’t you?”

“You’re not fucking up my life if I can help it.” Jason reveals what matters to him and Garrett picks up on it again.

“I’ll try not to. So what should I wear for tomorrow then?” Garrett is testing his anal brother.

“First thing, never wear the same suit twice in the same week. I have plenty of suits to go a month without that happening. I’d go with my medium gray Brioni with slight pinstripe, Silver/Crimson rep tie and ‘my’ shoes you’re currently wearing.”

“Your favorites?” Garrett wiggles his foot. “Do you ever wear a normal tie?”

“Yes, they’re my favorites but get them polished, there’s a shoe shine station on the north side of the building that’ll do them in 10 minutes for $20. I have ‘normal’ ties for a wedding or night out but rarely in the office, it’s always Harvard colors, it’s my signature look, my work uniform. Besides, crimson goes with any suit.”

“Hey, what about Robert tomorrow? Any pointers?” Garrett pushes a little more since Jason is concerned about maintaining his life.

Jason is silent while trying to answer. “That’s tough, he’ll want to talk about Wisconsin and adding other states quietly. He really needs backing from Silicon Valley, so Musk is a must. You have a campaign Webex set up for 10am, my slides are in  my campaign folder on desktop. It’ll be you, Lance and Tracey.”

“Yeah, I’ve seen your canned presentation and practiced it many times.” 

“Okay, know it all. He’ll push you for slogans but don’t, that’s my glory and it’s way too early in the campaign, I want to think about it more, have a few more options for him.”

“Wow, okay, I promise I won’t steal your glory bro.” 

“Since it’s his first day back, he’ll want to take everyone to Monocle, a restaurant nearby but call Steve Walker, his driver and he’ll take you all. The Philly cheesesteaks are the best in DC. I always get one and a diet Coke or Ultra beer.”

“Hey, you’re doing dinner at the Whitehouse?” Garrett asks.

“Yeah, it’s black tie and Jennifer is looking forward to it. Fuck, I won’t be back by then will I?”

“Sorry bro, I’ll be attending that.” Garrett smiles.

“You fucker, it’s my first invitation to the Whitehouse. I even purchased a new Tuxedo that I need to pick up at Brioni.”

“Oh, that’s what this is?” Garrett opens wallet and pulls ticket from it.

“Yes, it should be ready.”

“Sweet, I’ve never worn a tuxedo before.” Garrett teases.

“I was so looking forward to this. I’ve never been to such an event and I’m a huge fan of the prime minister.

“I am too, I love the new trade agreement and I memorized his commons speech. He’s my idol, I’m so thrill to be meeting him.” Garrett grins deviously.

“So you listened to my chats with Jennifer, studied my bookmarks but can you even play the part of a politician?”

“Easily, just look at me.” Garrett stands up, buttons his jacket and straightens his posture.

“You’ll need pumps too, not dress shoes.” He responds defeated.

“Okay, you’ll buy a pair tomorrow, something conservative of course. I need to type up the summary from today’s hearing and get to bed. Busy day tomorrow.” Garrett grins at him. 

“Oh, you have happy hour tomorrow at the Union Pub with Lance, Mark and Jonathan. I never miss it.”

“I know, I’ll get there early as usual and grab our normal table near the giant menu board. I’ll order a few drafts of Ultra, have some chips/salsa, maybe steal a wing off Lance.” Garrett smiles.

“Wow, you’ve done your homework.” Jason is in shock by the amount of details his twin has about his former life.

“Like I told you, not homework. We’ve been doing happy hour at the Union Pub for 5 years almost.” Garrett brags and leaves.

Todd and Jeffrey are anxiously waiting for Garrett when he gets upstairs. 

“Garrett, that was amazing. He couldn’t stop talking about himself.”

“Yeah, I guided him exactly where I needed to go. Tomorrow will be easy.” Garrett confidently smiles. “Guys, I’m exhausted, need anything from me?”

“No, we just need you to be Garrett Cook.” Jeffrey responds. 

“Okay, I’ll be busy all day tomorrow as you probably heard. Todd, find out what it’s like to be dating a Hollywood star for me, I’m sure he’ll brag about Jennifer. He loves ‘guy talk’ and will get in the gutter.” 

Before Garrett leaves, he heads to the bathroom, takes a piss and smiles at himself in the mirror. He opens up his jacket noting his stitched name, eyes his perfectly positioned lapel pin and windsor knotted tie. ‘I’m Garrett Cook, nice to meet you’ He quietly says to himself. On the way home he stops at the Union Pub and has a drink to familiarize himself with the restaurant, he does the same for Monocle. By the time he’s ‘home’ it’s after midnight but he stays up completing his hearing notes.

Second Day of Work

Garrett wakes up at 6:30 am, his standard time. Like the day before, he does cardio with his Peloton coach, makes himself a protein shake, showers and grooms himself to perfection. He follows his brother’s advice, selecting his medium gray pin stripe Brioni suit and crimson rep tie.  The pants are lined to the knees as he pulls them on, he wiggles into his wingtips then pulls on the shirt after inserting some Harvard cufflinks he found in his jewelry box match his tie.  While drinking his shake, Garrett watches a few YouTube videos on how to tie a Windsor knot.  A few tries and minutes later, his tie has a perfect Windsor knot with the same dimple his brother agonized over. After pulling on the suit coat, he adds his lapel pin making certain the orientation is  correct and the clutch is holding it firmly in place. 

Garrett Cook stares in the mirror, fusses with his hair, cufflinks and tie clip, making sure nothing is out of place.  He adds his Montblanc pen to his shirt pocket then buttons his top suit button. To maintain Garrett’s style, he clips his cherished Tag on his wrist instead of the Rolex. He grins at his image and thinks to himself. “You’re Garrett Cook, Garrett Marcus Cook, no, I’m Garrett Marcus Cook, Chief of Staff for Senator Gehris. I’m dating Jennifer Hasting, the hottest woman in movies. We’re the talk of TMZ and the gossip rags. Guys want to be me but I’m the only Garrett Cook.” 

Garrett clips his Senate ID onto his suit jacket, puts his wallet, iPhone and keys in place and soften his grin to a smile. He’s the epitome of Garrett. With his brother locked up securely, he’s the only Garrett Cook with his unique finger prints and dental records to prove it. No amount of scrutiny could prove he’s not.

It’s raining outside so Garrett slips his Burberry trench coat on over his suit, grabs an umbrella and heads out the door for another day. Once passed security, Garrett tracks down the shoe shine station his brother recommended. Like yesterday, he beats everyone in, hangs up his coats and makes himself a coffee.  He’s not happy having to drink black coffee but it’s what he drinks now, just like his protein shakes and kale salads.

The day starts right after Garrett’s first sip of coffee when Senator Gehris storms into the office and pops his head into Garrett’s office. No one else is there yet.

“Good, I was hoping you’d be in early.” Robert greets his new employee.

“Just had my first sip but I’m ready.” Garrett jumps up and follows Robert into his office. This is the moment Garrett warned him about—very private confidential discussion with information on people, plans, gov’t programs and strategy. Jason actually prepped Garrett perfectly for this moment, telling him what concerns to raise, how to challenge him and details about the topics.

“Shut the door.” Robert orders Garrett. “First thing, Mitchell is going to cave, talk to him and get him to swear allegiance to me. Tell him there’s a spot in my cabinet for him.”

“Will do.” Garrett replies knowing his brother’s usual pitch of ‘Senator Gehris would really appreciate blah blah blah and would be in debt to you’.

“Second thing, Elon is backing my candidacy, good for millions and promising full Silicon Valley support. I had to let him win.” Robert smiles.

“That is fantastic. I’ll be out to California in a few weeks.” Garrett responds, as Jason was expecting this. 

“You’ll be out in California fucking your girlfriend, not accomplishing anything for me. I know you, I can see she’s changing you already. You’re not as intense.” Robert observes.

“Relax Robert, I’m still the same old Garrett.” He promises but knows better.

He’s there for a few hours reviewing issue after issue, making suggestions, taking notes  and Senator Gehris doesn’t suspect a thing. Garrett attends a social security funding meeting with him, taking notes and offering opinions.  

Garrett calls Todd at the farm to get Jason on the phone for guidance on a few items the Senator is asking for. His brother doesn’t think twice about helping Garrett, under the belief that he’s protecting his career, not pounding nails into his own coffin. With this help, the new Garrett handles his new life easily. Lunch at Monocle and happy hour at Union Pub was easy and like his brother, his new friends gave him grief for his low carb beer and carrot sticks.

After a busy day of successfully assuming Garrett’s identity with his boss and his first happy hour with friends, Garrett enters his home very pleased with himself. He makes sure to not let his guard down for a minute, keeping with his brother’s habits—getting his mail and opening it, taking off his suit but leaving on a slight loosened tie, and having a diet coke. At 9pm, Robert calls to review tomorrow with his chief of staff. Garrett has been listening to these calls for months and interacts with his boss as he always does, knowing all of the issues. After hanging up with Robert, Garrett changes out of his suit and FaceTimes his girlfriend.

In bed Garrett tosses and turns, thinking about his new life, work issues, upcoming events like the Whitehouse dinner. If someone would have told him months ago that he’d be doing this, he would have laughed. But laying in Garrett’s bed, checking the time on his Tag, and admiring his Harvard class ring, he is Garrett Cook. This all feels so natural for him after only a few days. 

Girlfriend Details

Garrett is nailing his new life with help from his locked up brother. The hope of being released soon and not wanting his life screwed up, makes Jason very cooperative. Garrett talks to him via Todd’s cell phone getting everything he needs. Garrett’s new life is nothing like he expected though—he’s working long hours and constantly on the go. On the other hand though, he loves being Garrett, living his life, sexting his hot girlfriend and getting away with it. 

The biggest challenge so far, has been the many new people in his life, then add Senator’s contacts, and many are strangers to him. The surveillance of Garrett’s home, office and phone helped but everyday there’s someone new calling him that he’s expected to know. Without his brother’s help, someone would notice the changes in him. That’s why he is making it a point to visit his brother often, stringing him along with false hope, so his personal information keeps flowing to him.

Wednesday afternoon is spent at the Pentagon with Robert dealing with defense spending. He’s worried about  security but like the Senate building, his gov’t ID and fingerprints give him easy access. Garrett is exposed to top secret documents and meet with many key military staff. He doesn’t have to do much though—just take notes and share his opinion with Robert.

After the meeting, Robert drops him off at his townhouse so he doesn’t have to use the Metro system.  Garrett is happy with the change as it’s early, giving him more time to spend with his brother. Tonight is critical to get his brother’s detailed history about Jennifer. He’s been bragging to his new ‘buddy’ Todd about the sex but little about personal details.

Garrett enters his brother’s cell and finds him watching TV.  He has an iPad also but it’s limited to only download information, there’s no way to add apps, send emails or text messages. 

“Hey Bro, hope you haven’t seen me on TV again.” Garrett jokes.

“I did see some can footage of me with the Robert that was taken months ago but nothing recent. It was enough of a shock seeing myself live on CSPAN.” He chuckles.

“So how are you being treated?  They promised to treat you well.”

“Yeah, the handcuffs and chain are gone, the door is still locked. They’re even making me protein shakes and gave me an exercise bike.  It’s not Peloton but keeps me in shape.” Jason points to the bike in the corner.

“God, I hate Peloton and Randy, his workouts are killing me but I don’t want to lose my new definition.”

“Todd asked me if I wanted a Big Mac the other day for lunch, he saw the look on my face and knew instantly he was putting his life at risk just asking. I haven’t had fast food in years. I usually get a salad with protein.”

“Yeah, I messed up at the Pub last night when I grabbed a wing out of habit, a bad habit.”

“I do that now and then.”

“Yeah, I know bro. That’s why I did it, and Lance threw a carrot stick at me.” Garrett wickedly grins at him.

“You’ve done your homework. How’s my life?” Jason questions anxiously.

“Your life is insane, fucking constituents, hearings, reports, Robert, your staff, the campaign, keeping up with every piece of legislation, all the backroom deal making and that’s just handling your life. Throw Robert’s life into the mix and I won’t be able to handle much more of this BS.” Garrett sounds exhausted, but he’s not. He’s enjoying every second of his new life, things couldn’t be going better but if his brother feels he’s struggling with his impersonation, he’ll be more helpful with information. He falls on the chair, kicks out his legs, throws out his arms, pretending to be whipped.

“Hah,  I knew you’d be whipped. I knew it wouldn’t be that easy stepping into my life. There’s a lot more to it than just looking like me but you’ve got that handle. That outfit is me completely.”

“Instagram man, you can learn a lot from it—where to hang out, friends and what to wear.”

“Never thought of it like that.”

“So your girlfriend is coming back on Saturday. I really need your help here. I’ve never dated anyone famous.” Garrett pouts. 

“Relax, it’ll be easy, we’ve only been dating a few months, and she’s been gone half of that. Just fuck her for a few days straight, like I handled Amy when you went off to camp.” He snickers at his comment.

“She was my first girlfriend, and you had sex with her first. Telling her ‘I’ gave up my spot for my dear brother was brilliant on your part. This will make us even.”

“Even? We were 17 at the time, I was horny and it was for a week. We’re grown men now and you’re illegally impersonating me.” Jason complains.

Garrett ignores his whining and sounds panicked on purpose. “There’s more to your relationship with Jennifer than sex.  Where did you meet? First date? First kiss? Who initiated it, First time having sex? What she was wearing? Secrets shared? What does she like in bed? Pillow talk?”

“I guess you’re right but when she gets off the plane, she might just fuck you on the tarmac.” Jason laughs.

“Oh yeah, wouldn’t that look good in the press for you and Senator Gehris.” Garrett laughs,  dangling the carrot of freedom.

“You’re sounding like me, like you’re finally growing up.”

“Don’t get your hopes up on that one. When I collect my millions, I’m outta here and having no strings sex on the beach the rest of my life. You’ll have to deal with the mess if I fail.” Garrett warns and dangles more. 

“Okay, okay, I’ll tell you all about it from my perspective, then tell you her side and you’ll have the full picture.”

Jason goes into great detail on how David Geffen introduced them, how he spotted her as soon as she walked into the backyard, they went swimming naked after the party and spent the night together in David’s guesthouse down the hill near the stables. He goes on for hours talking about her, so long that Todd brings dinner in for them. 

“Bro, you’re marrying her, it’s obvious she’s the one. God, now I’m going to feel guilty fucking her but I don’t have a choice.” Garrett tries to sound sincere while concealing his hard-on.

“Yeah, if you don’t fuck things up for me, I’m planning on asking her to marry me.”

“What?  After 5 weeks of dating? You’re such a sap! You’ve lost it completely but don’t worry, I’ll be the Garrett Cook she loves and hardly knows.”

“When you know, you know and after our first night I knew. Hope you don’t mind but I’m planning on giving her Mom’s ring.”

“I forgot all about mom’s ring. I don’t mind at all. She wanted it given to whoever gets married first. That will definitely be you. Where is it at? I haven’t thought about that in years, I’d love to see it.”

“I don’t know bro if I should tell you this.”

“What is it? Bro, I just want to see it, not steal it, it’s all your’s for Jennifer. Besides, when I’m done here, I’ll be set for life. When have I ever stolen anything from you?” Garrett thinks of his new stolen life. 

“It’s nothing like that. It’s in Robert’s safe in his home office. When I first moved into my place there was a break-in next door and it freaked me out. It’s the safest place I know of, almost as secure as his Senate office safe.”

“You have to ask him to get it for you?”

“Of course not, I watch Robert’s dog and house while he’s traveling. I have his combination for the safe and passcode for security system. You don’t need to see it do you?” 

“I’ll need to know the security system. Just today he mentioned heading to West Palm for a long weekend and me watching ‘Pebbles’ for him. Don’t worry I would never steal from him or get you in trouble.”

“I don’t know the codes off the top of my head and really don’t feel comfortable with you having them.” He hesitates. 

“Oh my god, what’s in the safe? The nuclear codes? The hope diamond?  I’ll need the house codes to pull off being you while he’s away.” Garrett reasons with him.

“They’re in my phone, in my notes.” He begrudgingly reveals.

He opens the phone notes and scroll through them untill he sees some weird letters followed by number.  “This must be them.”

Garrett shows Jason the phone and he relents. “Yeah,  RHA is Robert’s Home Alarm, RHS is Robert’s Home Safe and ROS is Robert’s Office Safe.”

“Bro, that’s too fucking complicated. How about I do this—Robert is having a dinner party Friday night.  What if I just ask him to get it for me, then I’ll put it in your jewelry box in the bedroom. You do realize your Rolex is probably worth way more than that ring.”

“It’s not the dollar value, more the sentimental value. Go ahead, that makes sense.”

“True, she wanted it in the family. Hey, what are Robert’s parties like?” Garrett asks an open ended question to siphon more information.

“A lot of work, just like everything Robert does. Get there at least an hour early to help with security, valets and the caterer. Zach, from Senate security handles Robert’s parties. It’s a side business for him.  He’s done this before so you really don’t have to do much. Ask him about Amber, his newborn since you’re impersonating me. You will see the ugly anal retentive side of Robert — it won’t be pretty. Don’t ask about the ring until everyone leaves, trust me.”

“So you never really get to enjoy the evening?”

“Of course not, I’m always on duty. Don’t drink, I usually have a beer and glass of wine for dinner.” He complains for once.

“What should I wear? Suit? Tie? Guess I could just go there straight from work?”

“No! You’ll need to run home, change into ‘dressy casual’, no tie. Fuck, I might as well dress you.  There’s a new super soft tan cashmere Ermenegildo Zegna sport coat I picked up last spring at Bergdorf Goodman. I only wore it once and this redhead came onto me, feeling it. Pair it with my black Tom Ford dress shirt and charcoal dress pants. Don’t wear my wingtips, wear my black Prada slip-ons, and no Rolex, Tag or Omega will do. I was thinking of wearing it  to one of his parties and since it’s cooling down fast, it’ll be perfect.”

“Maybe I’ll get lucky.”

“No! Don’t you dare! If that gets back to Jennifer, she’ll drop me instantly.  Her last boyfriend cheated on her and devastated her. Behave yourself, you’ll have plenty of fun with her Saturday when she gets back.”

“You weren’t that worried about cheating on her a few weeks ago but I’ll behave. The cyber has been incredible, I can’t imagine real sex.” Garrett reminds his brother.

“Oh that was a set up, don’t deny it, that girl looked too much like Jennifer! The actual sex is a million times better. Can’t we just switch back for the weekend?” He jokes.

“Before Christmas is the plan. They keep promising I’ll be on the beach by then” Garrett lies.

“Please don’t fuck up my life Jason, I’m begging you. I’ve worked hard to get to where I’m at. It’s the only reason I’m helping you.”

“Don’t worry, your life is in safe hands. Just hope I don’t get caught. I’ll stop by Saturday morning to update you. Oh one last thing.” Garrett opens his iPhone and shows him some pics of him in his new Brioni tuxedo.

“Oh yeah, that is perfect for the Whitehouse. The standard collar and bow tie, nothing trendy looks great on me. One other thing, stop wearing my Rolex everyday, I only wear it for special occasions like the Whitehouse or important meetings. Stick with my Tag or Omega. It’s just that I see you’re wearing it again today.”

“Sure thing bro, thanks for the pointer.” Garrett responds but thinks to himself. ‘I’ll wear what I want including my Rolex’.

Garrett leaves, heads up stairs and is immediately accosted by Todd and Jeffrey.

“Garrett, that was fantastic. The information about the Senator’s safes and security system is exactly what we need. Open your phone, pull up that note so we can take pics of it. Also, here’s some cameras and microphones you need to install in the Senator’s home as soon as you can.” Jeffrey praises Garrett and hands him an Apple iPhone box full of electronics. 

Garrett opens his phone with face ID and AirDrops the Senator’s security codes to Todd’s phone.

“Gotta run guys, tomorrow is packed with a bill signing ceremony, luncheon with Lance and friends to discuss the campaign, and a hearing on funding homeland security.”

“You sound just like Garrett Cook.” Jeffrey jokes.

“I am Garrett Cook!” Garrett strongly corrects him. 

What a Weekend

‘Thank god it’s Friday’ Garrett thinks to himself.  One week down and the rest of his life to go he smirks to himself. He cuts out of work a little early to get home, change and make it to Robert’s house for the party. 

Garrett quickly strips out of his conservative Brooks Brothers suit and jumps in the shower. He jerks off, thinking of his cybersex with Jennifer last night, hoping it’ll keep him from doing something stupid if some hottie hits on him at the party. He’s been so horny since taking over his brother’s life. Part is due to Jennifer and the anticipation of fucking her, but part is the sense of accomplishment in becoming Garrett and getting away with it.

He’s now familiar with his brother’s closet, easily finding the tan cashmere sport coat and the rest of his outfit. Everything is laid out on the bed and checked for any faults.  The original Garrett is anal and the new one performs each of his habit as his own, even when no one is around to notice.

Garrett pulls on a pair of boxer briefs and crazy yellowish stripe socks to match the sports coat. He pulls up the pants, adds a belt and slips into the black shirt. He steps into the Pradas, from the jewelry case he selects his Omega watch, then puts on his class ring and watch. The sports coat is confidently slipped on and completes his image for the night. It’s so hot knowing he’s dressed exactly as his brother would have been. No one will doubt his identity. 

On the way to Senator Gehris’ home, Garrett calls Todd to get Jason on the phone for a few more pointers.

“Bro, you’re right, this outfit is amazing, super sharp. Thanks for the pointer.  I need some more help.” Garrett almost begs of him.

“Yeah, I saw the outfit in GQ and tried to duplicate it.  What do you need?”

“Where to park,  layout of the place, what to drink, eat and talk about.”

“You should be the first one there, so park in front of his garage door, on the far right side is where I alway park. The middle Homelink button in your car operates his garage door, so enter through there.  That leads to the laundry/kitchen. Robert’s office is behind the huge fireplace in the living room, his bedroom is the first door on the right at the top of the stairs. Bathrooms are across from his bedroom, and half bath next to the right side of the stairs. Make yourself at home, keep your coat on till everyone leaves. He keeps Michelob Ultra in fridge for me. Use a glass from above the sink. You’ll be the last one to leave and sometimes you crash in the spare bedroom.”

“Thanks bro, I’ll be you easily now.”

Todd jumps back on. “Hang on Garrett, while I get upstairs.” Garrett hears the door slamming shut.

“I told you we could use him. I need his help for a few more weeks.” Garrett explains. 

“Definitely, the pic of his security codes was incredibly helpful.”

“Yeah, I memorized them this afternoon while at work.”

“One last thing I forgot to mention. Inside the box with the cameras and bugs is a USB drive. Find his security system panel and there should be a USB port you can plug it into.  It needs to be plugged in for 10 minutes.”

“What does it do?” Garrett asks.

“It’ll give us control of his system, including his security cameras.” Todd explains.

Garrett pulls up to Robert’s place and is impressed. He thought his place was swank for DC  standards but he’s now feeling poor in comparison. Robert’s home is a new contemporary townhouse with a garage on ground level and three floors above it. The HomeLink opens the garage door as Jason promised, revealing a BMW 550i.

Garrett strolls in, yells ‘Robert’ then helps himself to a beer, making sure to pour it into a glass. 

“Hey, you’re early.” Roberts walks out from his office seeing his Chief of Staff leaning on the kitchen counter having his usual beer.

“Yeah, Please don’t tell the boss but I skipped out a little early. I didn’t want a last minute ambush from Welsh like last week. I swear that guy lurks outside the office till just before 5 to come in with a crisis and ruin the weekend. Who’s all coming? Sell out crowd?” Garrett nails his brother’s sense of humor and plays his part perfectly.

“Actually, it’ll just be a handful but Benjamin is showing up so this is our opportunity to pry him with liquor, get him behind us. He called me 30 minutes ago.”

“Fuck, that’s great. He hasn’t returned a single call this week.” Garrett complains.

“Well, he’s been busy with the Speaker, traveling.”

“I don’t care, I’ll use that to shame him . He owes me.”

“I need to change, keep an eye out for the caterer or we’ll be ordering pizzas. They’re late.” Robert excuses himself.

“Relax, just by a few minutes. They’ll be here. Trudy confirmed with them a few hours ago.” Garrett calms him.

Once Robert is upstairs, Garrett takes advantage of the moment, runs into his office and places a miniature microphone in his desk’s lampshade, and camera on the other side of the room on a bookshelf. He does the same around the rest of the first floor before Robert comes back down. Inside the entryway he finds the security panel and plugs the USB stick into it.

Garrett enjoys the evening, easily playing his part with the guests, using the back and forth conversations to learn more names and faces. During desert Jennifer calls with the arrangements for tomorrow’s flight. Garrett is excited, whispers to Robert that it is Jennifer and excuses himself. He heads upstair for privacy but also to plant bugs in Robert’s bedroom and bath.  When he gets back, he and Jennifer are the main topic at the table.

It’s after midnight before everyone clears out leaving just Robert and Garrett. Robert has a good buzz working while Garrett barely drank two beers. Garrett is staring at the fire and Robert comes up to him.

“What are you thinking about so deeply?” Robert probes.

“Can you keep this secret?”

“Come on, what do you think? You’re my best friend, confidant. What’s going on?”

“I need my mother’s ring from the safe.”

“Oh fuck, that can only mean one thing.” Robert is surprised.

“No, no, no… don’t jump to any conclusions.” 

“Well, I can’t help it. I remember you telling me your mother wanted you to give it to your future bride someday.  Why today?” Robert probes.

“I just don’t want to burden you with it any longer.” Garrett slyly smiles.

“Oh, You dog you. Fine, but you're not fooling me at all.” 

Robert gets up and heads to the office, Garrett follows him. Garrett would have never found the safe—it’s built into the floor with an oriental carpet covering a hidden tile. Garrett is impressed once again by this house. Robert invites him to crash in the spare bedroom but Garrett graciously declines so he can head to the farm first thing in the morning. 

Saturday Prep with Brother

“Wow, you’re early Garrett I wasn’t expecting you till later.” Jeffrey greets Garrett at the door. 

“Busy day and busy night coming up. My girlfriend is coming back this afternoon. I haven’t seen her in a month, I’m so horny.” Garrett gives him a sly grin.

“You’ve never met her.” Jeffrey fires back.

“She’ll never know, I’ve cybered with her as much as my brother has now. I just need to see him, pick his brain some more, keep stringing him along. All his information has been spot on and priceless with becoming him.”

“I’ll say, his information with the security system and the bugs you placed last night will really help with our mission.”

“Am I ever going to find out what the mission is?” Garrett asks.

“All you need to do is be Garrett Cook. Trust me, it’ll get easier and soon you won’t be needing the imposter in the basement.”

“I’m almost at that point. It’s hard to think of myself as anyone but Garrett. I’m loving the job, friends and life. How is he doing?”

“He’s been asking about you, curious what you’re doing to his life and when he’s getting it back.”

“I’ll deal with him. I know how to play him, always have.” Garrett promises then makes his way down to the cell. Jason jumps up from playing with his iPad.

“You’re early bro, wasn’t expecting you for a few hours. How was the party?”

“You were right, it was easy. I got there early, had a beer and kept an eye on things. I got the ring back for you, it’s in the jewelry box, behind the Rolex.  But now, Robert thinks you’re going to ask Jennifer to marry you.”

“Well, I probably will when I get out of here. I’m in love with her. My heart actually aches for her, first time ever. You better treat her like a lady, sweep her off her feet like I was planning.”

“I will bro, I promise. I’ve got reservations at Marcel’s, then a walk to Judy’s for desert and then home to make love all night long.” Garrett brags.

“Bro, you’re killing me! You don’t know me or Jennifer.”

“It’ll be romantic, I promise you.”

“No, Marcel’s sucks, it’s over priced, pretentious and not her kinda place. She’ll never get to relax there once people notice her. She may be a huge star but she grew up in Columbus. She loves simple things. Did you just pick it from a Google search?”

“It has 5 stars.”

“Oh god you did.” Jason mocks him.

“What were you planning?” Garrett made up the horrible scenario to get Jason’s plans since he knows Jennifer and Washington. 

“She didn’t mention anything about the Nickel to you?”

“Just that it sounded like a place in Columbus near the Ohio State campus and she’d love to check it out. Something like that, it was after our last cybersex and I wasn’t paying attention.”

“Oh god bro, you’re going to ruin me. She just spent four weeks in Rome, being treated like royalty, eating real Italian with pretentious stars, having her ass kissed and being chased by the Paparazzi. I was planning on picking her up, not letting her take a limo to my place, having sex right away, then having her meet my friends at the Nickel. Surprise them and her.” 

“Like burgers and wings? Ruining my figure?”

“One night a week is a ‘free night’ where I eat all the shit I want. I don’t go crazy but I do eat junk food occasionally. What were you planning on wearing.”

“I really liked your outfit from last night, especially the coat, so something similar?” I question my decision for him to decide.

“Well, at least that make sense. Tone it down with jeans, chukka boots and my black turtleneck sweater.”

“Do you really think she’ll like the Nickel?” I push for more details.

“Yes, and after flying for 7 hours, even on Geffin’s private jet, she probably won’t want to be out late. Keep it simple. Let her decide and go at her pace.”

“I’ll consider it bro. Thanks for the advice.”

Girlfriend Fun

Garrett took his brother’s advice completely and added a few twists to it. He’ll pick up Jennifer at the private hanger at Dulles and take her home. As she walks off the plane, he’s holding a handmade ‘Jennifer Hastings’ sign and holding a dozen roses, her favorites.  As soon as she sees him, she sprints over to him, embrace him, then kisses him slowly. It’s a major turn on for him and in seconds, he’s throbbing for her.

“God I’ve missed you so much.” She takes a break from kissing him to whisper in his ears.

“Not as much as I missed you.” He whispers back. From everything he’s learned about her from media and his brother, he feels like he knows her intimately. 

The staff loads all her luggage into his BMW while Garrett helps her into the passenger seat. Back at Garrett’s place, they rush to the bedroom where the bed is covered with rose petals and lit with candles. Garrett quietly kisses her and he slowly starts undressing her, she does the same for him. He gently guides her onto the bed, his erect cock oozing while she’s pulling him on top of her. Thanks to his brother, he knows she’s on the pill and doesn’t think twice entering her gently. She moans and groans as he starts fucking her—gentle at first, then progressively faster and rougher. She’s loving it and starts loudly screaming, then the moment Garrett has been wait for.

“Ohhh fuck ‘Garrett’, fuckkk.” They climax at the same time. Garrett follows up with kissing her deeply, then sucking on her nipples. Sex is beyond anything he was expecting with her and she loved every moment of it too. 

The couple falls to sleep spooning, waking a few hours later. Garrett doesn’t want to get out of bed, but Jennifer is starving and wants to meet his friends that she’s heard about but never met. They jump in the shower and have more sex until the hot water runs out. He thinks to himself how lucky of a man he is to be with such a gorgeous woman.

Later on they meet up with Garrett’s friends at the Nickel, taking over a few tables near the stage where karaoke is happening. Garrett was afraid of mobs accosting them but Jennifer dressed in jeans, hoodie and hat. When Garrett saw her disguise, he adapted with a Harvard hoodie and baseball cap. No one recognized her, even on stage singing karaoke  with Garrett. The gang closed the bar then went out for breakfast at an all night diner. The evening was ordinary but it was just what Jennifer needed—a night out with ordinary people. Back home, the happy couple fucks a number of times, sleeps in till noon then heads out for lunch and shopping. They dress up but Jennifer hides behind big glasses and a floppy hat, while Garrett dresses in khakis, Chelsea boots, sweater and sports coat, a typical outfit based on his Instagram. 

They have brunch, then stop at Tom Ford nearby to pick up Jennifer’s gown which was specially delivered to that location. Tom Ford personally scheduled the fitting—all in preparation for tonight’s Whitehouse dinner. Garrett picks up a pair of Tom Ford ‘evening shoes’ to go with his new Brioni tuxedo. Afterwards, they’ve back at the townhouse in bed, fucking like bunnies, sharing their lives. Jet lag finally hits Jennifer and she crashes in Garrett’s bed for hours. He can see what his brother see in her and thinks she could be the one for him also. 

While Jennifer is sleeping, Garrett is googling how to tie a bowtie for tonite. There’s pics of Garrett helping Mark with his bow tie months ago, and knowing how anal his brother is, his tie has got to be perfect. When Jennifer gets up, she’s greeted by a bubble bath and candles surrounding it. Garrett makes love to Jennifer in his oversized tub with him in the water and her on top. When she screams out ‘Garrett’ at the top of her lungs, he empties his load into her. The sex is more than his brother promised him—the best sex he’s ever had in his life.  

Garrett and Jennifer take the Whitehouse like royalty. Senator Gehris and Amy,  his ’beard’ pick them up in his limousine and they’re dropped off at the Grand Foyer, greeted personally by the President and First Lady. The evening was a dazzling success for Garrett Cook—a stunning woman on his arm, meeting the President and Prime Minister of the UK and executing his new identity flawlessly. Thanks to Garrett’s anal nature, he had a dozen bookmarks on his computer just about the Prime Minister, and a list of questions on his iPhone in the notes.

Back home Garrett and Jennifer ravage each other out of their formal wear, right on the floor. Just like Saturday night, he he brings her to orgasm multiple times.  He had warned Robert that he’d be taking Monday and Tuesday off. They spend most of their days in bed, going out only to meet some of her friends. On Wednesday Jennifer heads home to New York to start publicity for her movie. Garrett works all day, catching up on emails and making plans to visit other states to set up campaigns. It’s been four days since Garrett last visited Jason at the farm. He has no need to visit Jason because after all his training and help from Jason, he’s 99% Garrett Cook.

Chit Chat

After work on Wednesday, Garrett heads straight to the farm to see Jason. He’s in a 2 button windowpane gray suit and a Harvard bow tie, and Burberry trench coat due to rain. Todd takes him down to his brother. The video display outside the door shows his brother sleeping peacefully. Garrett enters quietly, takes off his trench coat, uses the bathroom and double checks his appearance in the mirror.

“Bro, come on, wake up.” Garrett heads over and gently shakes him. 

“Heeyyyy, long time no see.” He mumbles and stretches from his slumber.

“I’ve been busy man, you warned me about your life and I was skeptical. Now I’m a believer.” 

“How is Jennifer?” He perks up.

“She’s fine, I had fun with her. She’s in New York promoting her new movie. You’re right, the sex was good, but she’s high maintenance.” Garrett really downplays his time with her, while thinking that if this keeps going this well, he’ll be the one using his mother’s ring. 

“What are you talking about, she’s incredible in the sack.”

“Oh, don’t get me wrong, we fucked quite a lot and she was clueless, but I’ve had better, much better. We had a blast at the Whitehouse and the Prime Minister was really interesting.  I started reading your bookmarks, then saw the notes and became really impressed. “ Garrett opens up Instagram on his phone and let him scroll through pics of the last few days.

Jason calmly says. “I want my life back.”

“Bro, all I know is that I need to keep this up for another few weeks.”

“What are they asking of you?” He pries.

“Right now, just copies of the Robert’s speeches, drafts, any personal writings or notes. I also bugged his home. It’s nothing really.”

“Nothing really? Jason, Are you working for the Russians? Chinese?” 

“I’m working for $25m, nothing more. If I do my job right, I’ll be rich and you won’t be suspected of doing anything I promise.”

“Literally, my fingerprints will be all over this and you’ll be long gone.” He yells.

“So you better hope I don’t get caught.” Garrett warns again. 

“What more could you possibly need? You have everything of mine—my career, my girlfriend, my friends, my entire fucking life.” He yells louder.

“Well, now that you ask… I’m still uncomfortable around Robert.” Garrett lies and pulls out from sheets from his breast pocket that contain notes. “He made reference to a snowstorm? Drinking at Club 122?  Fishing trip off Santa Cruz?“

Jason angrily grabs the sheets and starts filling in more personal details for Garrett. He borrows his brother’s Montblanc pen and starts writing in answers while Garrett is listening. The whole conversation is being recorded by the cameras located in all the corners. Dinner is brought in for both of them. Garrett easily guides the conversation thanks to some drugs in Jason’s food to relax him. It’s basically a truth serum. Garrett peppers him with additional questions, asking for clarification and more details. He doesn’t realize how he’s being manipulated. Jason doesn’t realize he’s hammering the last nails into his own coffin.

It’s after 11pm when it’s obvious the drugs are wearing off. Jason is beginning to lose focus and asserting himself again. Garrett is enjoying this game with his brother—stringing him along, letting him think he’s getting his life back. 

“So I see you’ve mastered my bow ties.” Jason stares at him and snidely comments.

“You approve? I mastered the bowtie for my tuxedo. It took a lot of google time and practice, then I noticed your Harvard bowties you wear occasionally on your Instagrams. It’s a very dapper look and it’s a great look on me, I got a lot of positive comments today.” Garrett hands him his iPhone to show him pics from his first week. The room is shielded to prevent the phone from sending or receiving calls or data. 

“It’s ‘my’ look. You’ve never worn a bowtie in you life. You use to make fun of me for wearing them.” He strongly corrects.

“I’ve had a change of heart and like the eclectic style. Besides, to the world I’m Garrett Cook. I’ve worn many bowties over the years, just check ‘my’ Instagram and you’ll notice. So ‘my’ look since I picked out this outfit myself based on my style and closet. For your information, I also purchased a few new suits for work. I kept them ultra conservative, including a new 3-piece suit.” He assumes his brother’s identity easily—sounding just like him, with the same attitude. 

“Honestly, I didn’t think you were smart enough to pull off this charade but this is me, you’re me.” Jason begrudgingly admits and continues scrolling through pics on his phone.

“It has been a lot of work, more than I ever imagined but I have a great team behind me, and you’ve helped quite a lot which surprised me really.” Garrett lies.

“I’m only doing it because I don’t want you fucking up my life. I’ve worked too hard to get where I’m at.” He scrolls through pics, then starts in on text messages. Garrett keeps an eye on him to make sure he’s not texting anyone. “I see you got a haircut too?”

“I kept my normal appointment with Colette. She does a great job, even gave me a manicure after she reminded me it’s been a while. That girl was clueless and just wanted to talk about my girlfriend and what she’s like.”

“Yeah, I noticed that too. I’m a mess.” He notes.

“I’m actually loving this bro. I never thought I’d enjoy being you but I am.” Garrett gets up, walks to table and checks himself out in the mirror. “Bro, this is an awesome suit and any of my Harvard ties go with it perfectly.”

 “Are you listening to yourself? It isn’t your suit or Harvard bowtie, you don’t know where you bought the suit and you’ve never been to Harvard.” Jason is getting upset.

“I bought this at Tom Ford last October while I was in Miami on vacation.” Garrett’s brother is shocked at his knowledge. 

“Wow, you’ve done your homework. You know Robert went to Harvard?” Jason is surprised. 

“Of course, Harvard School of Business, graduated 10 year ahead of me. It’s one of the reasons we clicked. It’s not homework. I’m just Garrett Cook and these things come naturally to me, things I would know.” He smiles at his brother.

“You’ve done your homework and gone through my receipts.”

“I also watched a ton of your videos—TV interviews, Instagram, CSPAN, Youtube, conventions. Oh here, I almost forgot, I have some videos for you. One is a Fox panel from the other night, The other you’ll recognize.” Garrett grabs his iPhone back, opens up the videos on his phone and hands it back to Jason.

The first one is ‘Garrett Cook’ on Fox News talking to Rob Schmitt a few days ago, then it changes to video of ‘Garrett’ fucking Jennifer. When Jennifer yells out ‘Fuck, Garrett!’, Jason puts down the phone disgusted. 

“You’re stealing my fucking life bro.” Jason complains.

“More like borrowing it. It’s like watching yourself, isn’t it? Just admit it, I’m good at it.” Garrett gets up, takes back his pen and phone. “Yeah, I’m heading Chicago next week, meeting with Brad Stauch from our Midwest office. While there, I’ll stop at Tom Ford and add a few more items to my wardrobe.”

“Take it from your $25 million, not my bank account.” Jason tries to order.

“So it’s not only one of my favorite suits and bowtie, it’s my life. Just face it Jason, I’m a better Garrett.” He jokes with his brother as he tugs on his sleeves and faux model for his brother. 

“Just finish what you’re doing and get lost. I’m tired of this place and you living my life.” Jason mumbles disgusted. 

“Oh by the way, I spoke to professor Aungst. I did some horse trading with Senator Barwick, with Robert’s approval, and got him funding for his project. You have a meeting with him in a few months in Cambridge. You’re welcome.”

“That’s what I was hoping to do exactly. He’s a good friend, my favorite professor.”  Jason perks up.

“Yeah, his corporate law class was my favorite. He’s still missing Betsy, his wife after the cancer. So sad. Hey bro, I’ve gotta get home, just sit tight.” Garrett says leaving.

Jason’s mouth is hanging open after hearing Garrett sounding just like him, with knowledge that’s impossible for anyone else to know. Upstairs Garrett meets with Jeffrey and Todd. They’re thrilled with the entire operation and think of their protégé as the real Garrett and he does also.  

“Garrett, he’s about useless now unless we spike his food.” Jeffrey notes.

“After tonite, I can’t think of anything else I could need from him. Doing his job has been seamless thanks to our spying but also my brother keeps very good notes, something I’m adopting as well. His friends haven’t noticed anything either, and Jennifer is in love with the new Garrett. She was the easiest since she didn’t know my brother long and I had a very detailed briefing from the idiot describing their first meeting.”

“I’ve listen in on some of your phone calls and there’s no discernible differences between the two of you. The way you carry yourself, your grasp of the issues and reasoning skills, all mimic your brother exactly.” Todd adds.

“I was thinking… when you do his fingerprints, make sure to add the tattoo.” Garrett raises his concern.

“Already done. When you were under the knife, the first thing we did was a full body scan. He’ll be indistinguishable from you a few months ago, including the body fat.”  Jeffrey explains.

“Great, I’m tired of seeing myself when I talk to him.” Garrett snidely orders.

Emergency Meeting

Garrett’s third week on the job is going better than ever expected. He’s got his staff under control and his schedule is now of his own making. Garrett and the team are amazed how seamless the takeover has been with no issues at all. Robert was in this morning running around gathering up reports, pelting Garrett with things to do for the defense committee and the campaign. Garrett is extremely busy and Robert is heading to Camp David with others for a secret strategy session the president called for. He had Lance clear his schedule for a few days. Before he left he stopped in Garrett’s office.

“Garrett, you’re in charge. Keep a lid on things, I’ll be back Thursday. If anyone calls, I’m in a meeting and will get back to them. Text me if it’s important. Also, would you mind watching Pebbles.” He says it with the door open so Trudy and everyone hears his wishes. 

“Sure thing, not a problem.” His dutiful Chief of Staff replies as usual.

Hours later Garrett pulls up to his boss’ home, opens the garage and is greeted by Pebbles, Robert’s dog.

“Hey Pebbles, you hungry girl?” Garrett asks the little dog.

“I just fed her.” Robert walks into the kitchen and greets his chief of staff.

“Robert, I didn’t think you’d be here.” Shocked that his boss was home.

“Same, but last minute change, leaving tomorrow. Sorry I forgot to call you but it’s good timing you’re here. Let’s grab a bite.” Robert grabs his suit coat off the back of his bar stool, his car keys and phone off the counter and lead Garrett to Monocle. At dinner Robert talks the politics of a few bills, then Jennifer, getting very personal with his chief of Staff.

Garrett continues to amaze himself, sitting here with Robert Gehris, impersonating his brother easily and getting away with it. He’s still learning things though, it’s like being on stage 24/7.  After dinner, Robert drives them to the Senate office where they can ‘talk privately’. Garrett and Robert are known for secret conversations but Jason has been helping with lots of personal information. Robert takes off his suit coat and hangs it on the back of his chair, and gestures to Garrett to have a seat.

“Remember what you told me in Buffalo at my first debate?”  Robert tosses a question at him like he’s leading to more.

“Hmm, not exactly, not off the top of my head. Remind me.” Is all Garrett can say.

“Imagine Tracy is debating you in her underwear.” Robert laughs and Garrett joined in. “How could you forget that?”

“Long day here, had two morning Webexes with MN and WA staff, then Cooper’s hearing.”

“Oh, I thought it was because you’re not actually Garrett Cook.” Robert just stares at him and Garrett’s stomach just plummets.

“Ha, what are you talking about Robert? Is this a joke?” Garrett laughs and tries to recover. 

“Not a joke ‘Garrett’, I noticed something when you got back from Wisconsin. You were different but I couldn’t put my finger on it. You looked the same but it was the little things I noticed. So who are you? Where is my chief of staff?” Roberts demands bluntly. 

“Robert, it’s me? This joke isn’t funny any longer.” Garrett is getting sick to his stomach.

“Okay, fine.  Let’s get to the bottom of this game. The FBI is waiting outside the office for you. They’ll take care of this.” Robert informs him. 

Garrett is squirming and sweating now, shocked he’s been discovered. Just then his cell phone rings showing its Robert. He’s calling at 9pm, his regular time he’s known to call to talk about his needs for tomorrow. Garrett looks at his phone queerly, then at Robert who’s sitting across from him and who’s not on his phone. He answers it.

“Robert? You’re the last person I was expecting to hear from.” He stares at the Robert sitting across from him.

“You’re joking right? I want to make sure you take care of O’Neil first thing, don’t let him weasel out of his commitment.” The Robert on the phone orders.

“I’m on it boss. I’ve got to go, talk to you later.” Garrett hangs up and stares at Robert who’s looking at him.

“That was you. Who are you?” Garrett fires at Robert who has a sly grin on his face. Seconds later Todd calls him.

“Hey, Todd, so this is the plan?” Garrett yells at Todd for the first time ever.

“Calm down, we just wanted to mess with you some, and since Robert was gone for a few days, we thought ‘Robert’ could meet his chief of staff.”

“I thought I was going to jail. I think I shit my pants!”

“You should have seen the look on his face Todd.” The fake Robert yells laughing.

“You both are bastards. So this is why I was brought on?”

“Lets talk about this at home.” ‘Robert’ suggests.

Senator Gehris and his chief of staff lock up the office and head out to his car, saying goodnight to security.  On the way back, Garrett keeps turning to check out his new boss.

“Still in shock?” Robert questions Garrett.

“Ah yeah? I just can’t get over it, I never would have known. Dammit, you were in his house, playing with Pebbles, dressed as he was this afternoon, finishing a drink like you owned the place.” Garrett says stunned.

“That’s the point right? Thanks to you, we knew he was leaving for a few days, so it was the perfect time to test myself. He got home, changed, packed quickly and was picked up by a limo.  As soon as he was at Dulles, I was dropped back off by an identical limo. Pebbles came running over when I walked in the door, sniffed me and licked me, so I fooled a dog and you.” He laughs and pulls into his garage.

Back at the Senator’s place Robert greets Pebbles, gives her a treat and takes off his suit coat just as he’d seen the real Robert do a few times. Garrett helps himself a beer out of the fridge and Robert leads them into his living room to chat.

“I’m here because of you Garrett, I owe you.” The Senator thanks him.

“Me?”

“Yes, we’ve been trying to get close to the Senator for many months. I’ve been on hold. When you were discovered and accepted, the pieces fell into place. With his chief of staff under our control, we finally had our way in. You provided the schedule, reports, security codes et cetera.” Robert sits down on his sofa and Pebbles jumps on his lap. 

“Are you Robert’s twin?” Garrett questions.

“Unfortunately no, I went through many months of painful plastic surgeries and training. I’ve been going crazy waiting. When Robert’s trip to Camp David came up, and knowing no one would know where he was, except for you and Lance, I begged to get out of captivity and the team agreed.” Robert gets back up and nonchalantly pulls himself another Scotch.

“I never suspected a thing.” Garrett admits.

“And neither will anyone else.” Robert boasts.

“When?” Garrett asks.

“Well, replacing the Senator will be a lot more challenging. The government does fingerprinting and retinal scans of Congress people. I still need cornea implants to completely be him. Next house party, you’ll get him drunk, drug him, spend the night and scan his eyes.”

“That’s not for a few weeks when he has a campaign exploratory meeting at home.”

“That’ll work fine. It just needs to be before the secret service provides protection or it’ll be impossible for me to assume his life and I’ll be having more plastic surgery to change back or into someone else.”

Day of Reckoning

Jason wakes up groggy and confused. He can’t remember what happened—one minute he’s having a protein shake, then he’s in and out of sleep for days? He’s not sure what day of the week it is but according to the alarm clock, it’s 6am.  There’s dull pain in his mouth, his knee, shoulder and hands. His entire body aches and his stomach growls from hunger. He tries to get up but realizes he’s chained to the bed. He passes out again, waking at 7pm to blurry images.

“Jason, wake up.” He hears a familiar voice and things come into focus slowly.

“What happened?” Jason asks groggily and realizes he’s talking to his brother.

“You had some surgery, had a rough couple of days.”

“Surgery? For what?” Jason becomes more alert.

“We had to take care of a few details.”

“Details? What are you talking about? I feel like I lost a boxing match with Mike Tyson.” He groans.

“Simply, there can only be one Garrett Cook and that’s me.”

“What the fuck are you talking about?” He’s fully alert. 

“Do you really think I went through all this to be temporary?  I changed my fingerprints and body. I studied ‘Garrett Cook 101’ for months, listening to every chat, reading every email and text message.  It was alway meant to be permanent but you wouldn’t have helped me with the fine details if you knew you were handing me your identity.” Garrett sneers.

“What the fuck did you do to me?” He groans.

“Honestly bro, it was a little creepy having to see a copy of myself every time I visited.”

“What are you talking about?” He screams.

“I know you always wanted to be me but that’s the problem. See, there can only be one Garrett Cook, and obviously that's me. I don’t need an imposter running around, impersonating me.”

“You’re pretending to be me.” Jason yells.

“Not pretending, let’s get something straight—I’m Garrett Cook. That better sink in fast bro. We were too similar and I didn’t want people confusing you for me. My fingerprints and dental records all confirm my identity.”

Jason lifts up his hands and see they are bandaged. “What the fuck did you do?” Jason screams then reaches over to his arm and tries to rip the bandage from his arm but the bandages on his hands prevents it. His brother gets up and gently lifts up the bandage to show him his new tattoo.

“Looks really good bro, they used a special cream that speeds the healing process. In a few days, it’ll look like it’s been there since college when you got it on spring break. Damn, I remember when you got it, and tried talking me into getting a matching one. It looks ridiculous on you still.” 

“You think I’m going to go along with you taking over my life?” Jason yells.

“You already have. It’s not all that bad bro. On the plus side, the tattoo looks great and you no longer have that nasty scar on your knee. On the negative side, you’ve really gained some weight bro. You didn’t notice those protein shakes were carb shakes? Oh, did you know it’s possible to transfer fat from twin to twin. Thank god doc saved my fat for you. It only works for twins because we’re genetically identical. Good to know right? Oh I’ve been saving this one ‘My loss is your gain’.” He laughs out loud at his own joke.

Jason struggles with his wrapped hands but manages to pull up his hospital gown, revealing a belly. “You fucking bastards!” He screams at his brother, then flips his blanket off  his legs revealing his bandaged knee.

“Oh you want to see how your knee is healing?” Garrett goes over and carefully pulls the bandage up.

“See bro, you’ll never know there was a scar there. They did a great job.”  Then he puts his foot on the edge of the bed and pulls up his pant leg. “Damn, I’ve had this scar since I was 8 years old when I was learning to ride a bike and fell. Dad rushed me to the hospital and I had to have 15 stitches. I spent the night but had plenty of ice cream from the nurses. I should have it looked at but I’ve had it so long, it’s part of my identity.”

“Jason, you’ll be caught and I’m through helping you. If you’re that great, you don’t need it.”

“Jason? My name is Garrett, you know that Jason. Even my boss will swear to my identity and he’s known me longer than anyone else since college.”

“Yeah right, without my help, he’ll spot you as a phony in a few weeks.”

“You think so? It’s been 5 weeks already and no one has the slightest clue.” Garrett confidently replies while Jason stays silent.

“Oh, I'm thinking of asking Jen to marry me over Christmas, or New Years Eve? You were right, she’s a keeper. We’re heading to Hawaii. What do you think?” Knowing he’d get a reaction out of him.

“You sick fucker, you fucking bastard!” Jason screams wildly yanking on his chain.

“Now Jason, calm down you need more time to heal. Sorry, not sure when I’ll be back to see you, hopefully you’ll be in a better mood. I’m just so busy at work.” Garrett heads out the door and meets with Jeffrey and Todd in Jeffrey’s office.

“That went really great Garrett.” Todd snickers.

“You seemed to enjoy it.”  Jeffrey notes.

“Guys, you can’t imagine what you’ve done for me.  Did I really look that bad months ago?” 

“Ah yeah, honestly when I first met you, I had my doubts this would work.” Jeffrey confesses. “The transformation and your performance is remarkable. We’ve been scanning all the conversations from the bugs you planted and not a single remark questioning your identities. There have been complaints about how demanding you’ve been lately, and they blame the Senator’s campaign you’re juggling on top of your regular job.”

“Who’s been complaining?  I’ll flog them later.” Garrett jokes. “That’s great, it’s been a very easy transition. My only concern is not getting caught and having him around puts my new life at risk.”

“We’ll take care of Jason, he just needs a few weeks to heal. If there’s an autopsy, he’s got to be you physically with no telltale signs of healing.” Todd explains.

“Hang in there Garrett, he’ll be gone and there’s probably more to learn from him.” Jeffrey says. 

“He won’t be helpful unless we drug him at this point. What about Robert’s double?” Garrett asks. “Having him in place would really help with ensuring my safety, since the real Robert knows Garrett best.”

“A few more details like the eyes and he’ll be ready. Just relax, Senator Gehris has no concerns about who you are Garrett.” Jeffrey tries to ease him.

“Garrett, You’ve got nothing to worry about, just look at yourself. You’ve been flawless in every aspect of your new life.”

Bad News

A few weeks later, Garrett Cook is in his office early which is a new habit for him, that only a few people have noticed. The extra time helps him get in the proper state of mind and learn all he can in peace before Robert storms in and all hell breaks loose.  The job is really becoming routine for Garrett—every day has a standard flow that Garrett has adapted to.

When Robert is in town,  Garrett has a two hour face to face every morning, which then turns into marching orders for Garrett’s staff. Garrett is traveling every other week for the campaign—meeting with state campaigns, talking to major donors and lining up events. He’s basically duplicating what was done by his brother 4 years ago. 

After his meeting with Robert today, as he gets back to his office followed by Lance, his phone rings. It’s a call from upstate NY, from the Albany area.

“Garrett Cook.” He answers naturally.

“Mr. Cook, Hello, this is captain Marshal from the Albany police department—“ 

“How may I help you captain?”

“Mr. Cook, I have some bad news for you. Your brother was killed in an automobile accident last night.”

“Oh my god….” Garrett pauses and gasps like he practiced.

“I’m sorry for your loss sir.”

Lance sees a drastic change in a Garrett’s demeanor but Garrett was putting on a show. “When? How?”

“He was drinking and appears to have lost control of his car. It looks like it happened really quickly, he was killed on impact.” The captain explains. “Your name was in his phone under ICE. His ex-girlfriend has identified the body.”  

“I’ll be there as soon as I can. Do you have his girlfriend’s name and phone number?”

Garrett was prepped for this happening—not the date or details.  That information was held back on purpose to provide a real element of surprise. Lance being with him was perfect timing and Garrett played it perfectly. He’s actually in shock that the team took care of it so quickly when he was expecting it in a month. It didn’t matter to him though. He had everything he needed from his brother. 

Garrett informs Robert and takes the week off to handle the funeral. Not one of Garrett’s friends knew he had a twin brother and he was certain to just call Jason his ‘little brother’. Jason didn’t want a funeral or any fuss but Garrett had a memorial dinner with a few of his brother’s friends. It was good to know he was missed. Garrett’s girlfriend was the same person who posed as his girlfriend many months ago. They comforted each other a few times during the week as they both stayed in his old home. 

Garrett wasn’t interested in much of Jason’s junk, taking only a few items. Back in Washington DC, a great sense of calm comes over him and he’s the most relaxed he’s been in months. After his first day back, he heads to the farm for a meeting on Phase II. At the front door, he’s greeted by the future Senator Gehris.

“Garrett, welcome back. Hope your week wasn’t too stressful. We’re just sitting down to eat, join us.” Robert leads his chief of staff into the dining room. 

“Not at all, in fact, it was great for closure with my brother. I feel completely at ease now, I'm my own person now.”  Garrett responds confidently.

“You seem really relaxed.” Jeffrey adds and hands Garrett a glass of red wine.

“I am.” Garrett shakes his head and smiles. “Sorry Robert, I left you just 40 minutes ago and you beat me here.”

“He’s where he needs to be almost, except for his eyes.” Jeffrey chimes in.

“I’ve gotta say Robert, you look fantastic. I thought what I went through was tough but I had a twin. You started from scratch.” Garrett lifts his glass to him.

“I’m getting antsy being cooped up here.”

“I’ll get those eye scans for you next week. It’s for my benefit too—having you in place would put me at ease. We can help each other and I’ll be less on edge, less fear of ever being discovered.”

“It works out for both of us.” Robert celebrates. “A toast to my best friend, trusted chief of staff and my new career.”

Todd points out that ‘Phase One’ is complete and working as planned. ‘Phase Two’ will be completed in a month. The takeover of the United States government is becoming reality. 

Hours later, Garrett Cook strolls into the Nickel, sees his gang at their usual corner table and greets all his friends. He apologizes for being late but explains that he was working late for the Senator—his usual excuse that no one doubts.

#twin brothers #imposter #male transformation #stolen identity #men in suits #straight sex #impersonation

[forevercloudnine]

pre-new 52 scarebat ship meme

 (I actually have no idea what to call this period of comics. The dc wiki calls this the “New Earth” universe... it’s like, everything after Jason Todd was retconned out of being a circus acrobat up to Flashpoint. Anyway like a month ago I asked @heroes-etc​ to send me questions for this version of scarebat from this ship meme but then forgot that I did it because I got distracted by other ships. Sorry Jonathan...)

4. Who can’t keep their hands to themselves?

Bruce does DO physical affection — I mean, how many comic panels do we even have of him making out with Catwoman on rooftops — but he’s not especially forthcoming with it. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that his love interests are more likely to instigate contact than he is, especially when that love interest is a villain like Selina or Talia (can you even IMAGINE him trying to take them off guard in a fight by grabbing their face for a kiss? Because I cannot).

He does occasionally instigate affection with his children/proteges, though usually it’s in instances where they obviously need comfort. Bruce isn’t always great at handling complicated emotional situations, but grief and trauma is something he understands very intimately, and he never hesitates to physically reassure people who are in that kind of pain.

In situations where someone isn’t in the active process of being traumatized, he’s less forward with physical affection. That doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll reject it if it’s instigated — depending on who you are, of course. I’m guessing he wouldn’t put up with hugs from random members of the Justice League. Superman is his best friend and he would probably try to wiggle out of 90% of Kal hugs if doing so was physically possible. Most of his loved ones don’t really spring physical affection on him unless they need it or it’s an especially emotional moment, however. It’s not really Bruce’s primary love language. 

Jonathan seems even less physically affectionate than Bruce, though obviously doesn’t have a lot of opportunity to demonstrate how he feels either way. Master of Fear offers the only example of him expressing explicitly romantic affection that I know of (unless you count his terrorizing Becky Albright in New Year’s Evil as physical affection, which... might be how he’s thinking of it...?), and it’s entirely instigated by Sherry Squire. He does ask her to the Halloween party, but she’s the one who takes him down to the furnace room for some “one-on-one” time and tells him to kiss her. 

He also notably does not actually get a chance to kiss her, mainly because the whole thing was a prank meant to humiliate him. This might be why he doesn’t try to instigate anything similar with his next crush, Dr. Linda Friitawa (again, unless you count Becky Albright, but I can’t find New Year’s Evil to read anywhere so my only knowledge of his interaction with her comes from Tumblr. I’m like 80% sure he was supposed to be interested in her romantically, but asking someone to do supervillainy with you isn’t the most direct way to express attraction, so I’m taking that as more obliqueness from Jonathan).

He never expresses any direct romantic interest in Linda, but at the very least he clearly cares about her more than he cares for most people, since he, like. Defends her in conversation and apologizes to her for things that aren’t even his fault. Which means a lot, coming from a sociopath with no regard for human life. They do hold hands at one point, but Linda reaches out to him first, and he waits to see if she’s going to back away from his reciprocated touch before he reaches for her other hand. 

He never instigates anything further with her, possibly out of fear of rejection. Unfortunately, it turns out that this was a good call, because Linda was only pretending to be nice to him while Penguin was paying her to experiment on Jonathan without his knowledge. When Batman figures out what they’re doing, she immediately fucks off and starts dating Black Mask.

Even more unfortunately, his 45 seconds of hand holding with Backstabby McMad Scientist is probably the only mutual physical affection Jonathan has ever experienced in his entire life, so honestly I have no idea if he would be more into it as a concept if it was offered to him more often. He’s clearly willing to return physical contact when it’s initiated by someone else, so maybe it is something he would seek out in an actual relationship? He DOES get handsy with Bruce when he has Batman tied up sometimes. 

9. What is the most embarrassing thing they have done in front of each other?

Trip out on fear toxin, both of them, hands down. There are few things more embarrassing than, as Jonathan aptly describes it, being “reduced to whimpering quivers” in front of your enemy. Especially an enemy who’s presumably jotting down notes on your worst fears, since Batman/Scarecrow fights tend to just be competitions in who’s more frightening.

11. What do they hide from one another?

I mean, obligatory mention of the fact that Bruce hides things from absolutely everyone (with the possible exception of Alfred, because Bruce trusts him as completely as he is capable of trusting anyone, and also because it’s really hard to hide things from a parent whose involved in every aspect of your life and already knew you before you developed your pathological need to obfuscate your feelings and intentions).

As Wonder Woman pretty aptly describes during the Tower of Babel arc, even Bruce’s closest allies are never going to hear the full story from him. So it’s deeply unlikely he’d ever be 100% truthful with a supervillain, even if they got close AND Jonathan reformed. 

But it’s notable that Jonathan’s fear toxin has actually given him a more honest look into Bruce’s psyche than he would ever purposefully give to people who aren’t close family members. And by “close family members” I again pretty much just mean Alfred. Unfortunately for Bruce, nothing forces emotional transparency like mind altering drugs. Fortunately for Jonathan, nothing forces emotional transparency like mind altering drugs! Not that I’m recommending that anyone drug a romantic partner into being honest with them. But Jonathan is a trained psychiatrist, so I assume his psychological know-how combined with insights gleaned from the dozens of “sessions” he’s had with Batman in the past would leave him more prepared than most to decipher the mystery that is Bruce Wayne. (@heroes-etc: riddler is SEETHING.)

Jonathan meanwhile is more than capable of putting together a clandestine scheme, but in respect to himself he’s actually pretty straightforward. Though his driving motivation in this continuity gets more and more complicated over time, from the early 90’s “I just like fear” to the early 2000’s “my Granny tortured me with birds when I was a child and now I’m obsessed with inspiring the same fear and submission she forced on me onto others,” what doesn’t change is his willingness to monologue about it to anyone who’s listening.

Also, anything that Jonathan is unable or unwilling to go into detail on, Bruce is more than capable of puzzling out himself. In Scarecrow: Year One he successfully tracks down Jonathan’s old home to recover and read through Granny Keeney’s diary, and after Scarecrow’s Master of Fear origin was published, it’s clear that Bruce has done his research on Jonathan’s childhood. There’s even a (presumably unintentionally) hilarious scene where Bruce pauses mid-rescue of a man that Jonathan has kidnapped and traumatized with fear toxin to lecture him on having bullied Jon in high school.

Is this really the time, Bruce???

(@heroes-etc: oh 100% he nailed that timing.)

13. When do they realise they should get together?

Well, circling back to Tower of Babel, it’s revealed when Ra’s al Ghul has Talia steal Bruce’s contingency plans for defeating the Justice League that Bruce has “borrowed” Scarecrow’s fear toxin in case he has to take down Aquaman.

This was back when Scarecrow had a number of different toxins that induced different phobias, or made people hallucinate hyper-specific nightmare scenarios (such as “being eaten alive by roaches from the inside,” for some terrible reason). Batman notes in his contingency files that Scarecrow has already done the work for him; presumably Jonathan had already designed a formula to induce hydrophobia, so all Bruce had to do was steal a vial of it from a crime scene.

(The sentence “Why not make him incapacitate himself... perhaps through fear?” alone is like 90% of why I think these men would get along like burlap on fire if they ever actually cooperated on something. Also, unrelated, but the polaroid of Jonathan he has in the Aquaman file is weirdly adorable.)

Bruce’s plan for Arthur is incredibly effective, and notably also Bruce’s only contingency that isn’t either inherently lethal or a ruthlessly sociopathic betrayal of emotional vulnerabilities that had been revealed to him in trust and friendship (RIP Kyle Rayner).

(Notably, Bruce’s plans for Kyle and several other leaguers directly involve using their worst fears against them, even without a fear toxin conveniently tailored for this purpose. Bruce just really likes using fear as a weapon against people.)

After Tower of Babel, Bruce obviously needed to create new contingencies, since the whole point is that they were secret plans that no one could see coming. In canon, Bruce goes on to create the A.I. satellite Brother Eye for this purpose (which backfires even worse than his first set of contingency plans, because of course it does). But I think an interesting alternative could have been Bruce tapping Jonathan for more toxin strands tailored to taking down the Justice League. If Bruce Wayne offered to pay Scarecrow’s way out of Arkham in order to develop formulas that could neutralize the world’s most powerful superheroes, is there any way that Jonathan would turn him down? I mean, obviously he would plan on betraying Wayne at some point, and Bruce would similarly be working against Jonathan’s best interests. But maybe if they set aside their “who’s scarier” dick measuring contest to work together for once, they could come to recognize their shared passion: scaring the shit of people.

Also, the Jonathan in this continuity really likes books. And you know what’s a reliably sustainable source of books that can’t be confiscated by the authorities? Dating Bruce Wayne. The manor alone probably has an insane amount of rare books that have been hoarded by his family over the years. It’s like a weird reversal of the Beauty and the Beast, where the rude rich guy who gives a library to the love interest he may or may not have technically kidnapped is the pretty one.

21. Where do they get nervous about going with one another?

If they were dating, I’m guessing Jonathan wouldn’t want to go anywhere in public with Bruce at all. Bruce Wayne is a celebrity bachelor, and celebrity bachelors get a lot of attention, and people who take celebrity bachelors off the market get a lot of NEGATIVE attention. The public reaction to Bruce settling into a committed relationship with anyone would be the kind of weirdly resentful gossipy judgement that the girlfriends of famous princes or actors or musicians always get from tabloids and entertainment television, but in Jonathan’s case it would be a million times worse. Not just because he’s a supervillain, because if there’s any town that would expect its most eligible bachelor to eventually date a supervillain, it’s Gotham. But more specifically because “ugly social outcast” is one of Scarecrow’s most enduring character traits. Not exactly the traditional trophy wife. And though Jonathan’s Scarecrow identity seems to distance him from a lot of the shame he suffered growing up, I’m guessing that the kind of spiteful vitriol that would follow him anywhere he accompanied Bruce would at the least bring back some very unwanted memories.

Bruce probably doesn’t have the same discomfort Jonathan would with being seen together in public. He doesn’t care if people think Bruce Wayne is insane or lacking in judgement as long as they don’t think he’s Batman, and I’m sure he’d find a way to spin “dating a man who prefers to dress exclusively in burlap” into something appropriately characteristic of playboy idiocy. But while he'd definitely respect Jonathan's wishes to stay out of the public sphere, he would probably enjoy any opportunity to bring Scarecrow into Gotham high society, since his presence would definitely shake up a party, and Bruce is generally extremely bored at any social event where he doesn’t have anyone to snark with. And with Jonathan’s scathing wit as entertainment, Bruce might one day fulfill Alfred’s wish and actually make it through an intermission sometime.

I’d say that Bruce would be nervous about taking Jonathan out for “field research,” but I’m sure it would be one of Scarecrow’s requirements for any long term collaboration, so it’s something that he would have to get used to pretty quickly. He would probably endeavor to keep Jonathan away from anything that could retrigger his less healthy behaviors. On the other hand, it’s not like Bruce does that for himself, so it stands to reason that he probably wouldn’t be able to successfully control Jonathan in that regard either. 

It doesn’t help that one of Jonathan’s primary motivations in villainy is his childhood, which is... exactly the same thing that Bruce is fixated on. A significant portion of Scarecrow: Year One is the two of them waxing poetic about how similar they are in this regard. 

Relating to this, even though it might be a terrible idea, I don’t think Bruce would be able to resist encouraging Jonathan to reconnect with his mom. Bruce would never recommend for someone like Cassandra to seek out a relationship with her father, but if someone he cares about has a LIVING parent who WASN’T abusive to them? It seems unlikely that Bruce wouldn’t advocate for reconciliation. Jonathan’s dad obviously never cared about the teenage girl he knocked up or their bastard child, but Karen Keeney is a different story. DC Holiday Special ‘09 makes it clear that Jonathan was taken away from her against her will, and she’s spent a significant portion of her life wracked by guilt imagining what the woman who abused her was doing to her son.  

Ultimately she attempts to commit suicide because she feels personally responsible for every terrible thing her son has ever done, which is tragic because really she’s the only member of the Keeney family completely blameless in the creation of the Scarecrow. In Scarecrow: Year One Jonathan clearly resents her for leaving him and moving on to have another baby that she actually did keep, which I would call a really paranoid case of jumping to conclusions if it didn’t seem extremely likely that Granny Keeney told him his mother didn’t want him and left him to be tortured on purpose.

(Side note, it is REALLY weird how young Karen Keeney is depicted in Scarecrow: Year One. At times her son looks older than she is, and it doesn’t help that her second born child is an infant for some reason. Even if Jonathan is only thirty years old here, then unless she had him at younger than fourteen, she should already be in her mid-forties. Why did she only have a second child so late in life? The implication with her abusive husband is that she ended up getting trapped in a bad relationship for survival when her family kicked her out as a teenager for disgracing the family by having Jonathan. It would make way more sense for her child with him to be at least in elementary school. Also the scene would have been way more interesting if Scarecrow’s sister was old enough to talk.)

Thankfully Deadman manages to convince Karen to hold on to life long enough for someone to call 911, and she ends up surviving the suicide attempt. But were Jonathan ever to reform, it seems like reconciliation would be really healthy for both of them, since miraculously Karen still seems to care about Jonathan despite everything he’s put her through, and they’re both clearly still suffering from the after effects of Mary Keeney’s abuse. 

Bruce would be enthusiastic about this prospect for obvious reasons, although he would presumably still be nervous about the possibility of everything going terribly wrong. And even if everything went perfectly right, he would STILL be nervous, because everytime Jonathan goes to see his mother there’s a chance that she will mention the time that she kissed Batman full on the mouth. And that is not information you would ever want your psychologist boyfriend to know, unless you want to be mocked with Freudian buzzwords for the rest of your natural life. 

(...This would also count as a thing that Bruce hides from Jonathan.)

#scarebat #jonathan crane #scarecrow #bruce wayne #batman #i just they're neat #it's all about those shared interests #and by shared interests i mean subjugating your enemies through fear #ship meme

[scaryscarecrows]

Child Safety 101

AN: Continuation of ‘I Think I’ll Just Collapse Right Here, Thanks’, found in Why Do They Kick Me?

Note: Mark is a trauma surgeon, not a GP, but he’s also the only one Jason will let within doctoring range, so.

* * *

The Knight has been down and unresponsive for literal days. The first day was the diciest, because even Mark hadn’t been totally sure if he’d pull through, but his fever had gone down enough to remove him from the danger zone.

Once it had become apparent that he wasn’t going to die on them-because Antoine’s sorry, but no way is he continuing this crusade in the guy’s memory or whatever, if the boss dies, he is leaving-, they’d had a meeting and, essentially, made a chore chart for who had Knightwatch, who had Armywatch, and who got to nap.

It’s a fairly efficient rotation. And so far, at least, they’ve managed to keep the news of, well, everything under wraps. All the men know is that the boss is down but that he will be fine, carry on as normal. They don’t know that the helmet’s off.

And. Oof. Of all the crackpot theories they’ve jokingly tossed around, this wasn’t one of them. Antoine’s not sure which one he’s more stuck on: the fact that the boss is a teenager, or the fact that the boss is-was-Robin. They’re so intertwined that it doesn’t really matter, it’s just…

Antoine is not a parent. He’s happy to keep it that way; the best part of uncle-ing is dosing them up on sugar and releasing them back to the parents. So he doesn’t really get the whole ‘electrical outlets are a Great Danger’ thing. But he does get, maybe a little better than your average parent, the sick, twisted fucks of society. He’s worked with a handful. Spoken with more. He still remembers, years after the fact, that one guy...he ate people. Literally. He’d put a toddler in the oven-alive-and…

Yeah.

But this is a little different. This is...it’s one thing to hear about it. It’s another thing to be faced with it. And it’s another thing entirely to see it. That fucking tape, man…

He stretches out a bit, pops his back and rubs a hand over his side, feeling rough scar tissue. What a week. What an absolute hell of a week.

He’s on Knightwatch now, because everything outside is moving smoothly without him and Frank really, really needs the nap. The boss is finally sleeping peacefully, curled up on his side with one arm flung up to shield his face. He’s still shivering on and off, and he sounds congested as all get out, but the worst of it is over. No more screaming, no more pleading.

What now? He supposes they’ll stay the course, but he’s not sure, not really. Maybe this is the end. Maybe the boss will vanish in the middle of the night.

Jesus, that explains so much. Batman taught him all this weird shit. Batman...this is, arguably, entirely Batman’s fault. What sort of weirdo...never mind. Never mind.

As ever, he figures, this is a nasty combination of neglectful adult and opportunistic predator. This is the same thing as that one girl in his sister’s apartment complex that got kidnapped. Six years old, mother said, ‘yes, yes, go play by the road alone!’ and she got abducted and murdered. Somebody should have been watching her.

Somebody should have been watching the boss.

Doesn’t matter. People are watching him now, at least, whether he likes it or not.

He coughs and rolls over, one arm slipping off the bed. Antoine sighs and puts it back, straightens the sheets out like he’s seen Frank and his sister do, and wonders what’s going to happen now.

They could, he supposes, figure out who he-and by extension, Batman-is. Jimmy could run a facial recognition at the minimum. But they haven’t, and they don’t really intend to. Curious as they are, they owe him their lives and...and no matter how this turns out, he’s their boss and they won’t.

Antoine’s sort of lost in thought, caught up in memories of that little girl (what was her name?) and the cannibal and the utter confusion of everything, when the Knight suddenly jerks upright like he’s gonna make a break for it.

“Shit--”

He twists over and only feels a little sorry for forcing the Knight back down. The sorry feeling vanishes when the boss tries to fight him.

“No--”

“You gotta be kidding me--” It’s not much of a fight, but he’s still trying, which is incredibly unfair. “How even--there.”

Okay. There’s no easy weapons in here, which is all he can ask for. He’s not interested in being held at gunpoint again, thanks.

“You back with us, sir?”

The Knight’s quiet, breathing hard and seemingly very interested in the ceiling.

“We have an intruder,” he says, voice carefully flat. “I want every available unit search--”

Uh-huh.

“You wouldn’t have held this intruder at gunpoint, would you, sir?”

Silence. That’s what he thought. They’re professionals, for heaven’s sake. People don’t just get into their super-secret hidden base. That just doesn’t happen. Their own people have gotten lost trying to find their way back to it! Intruder, humph. That hurts.

…

Yeah, okay, he’s trying to maintain the facade of normalcy. Like. The helmet’s off, man, any weird-ass theories anybody’s had have now been put to rest in favor of the truth. But both of them are probably going to be happier if they just pretend that nothing has changed.

(Which is half-true. Baby Robin or not, the guy’s still scary.)

“What day is it,” he finally says, voice scarcely above a whisper. Antoine hits the call button.

“March third, sir.”

“Shit.”

Yup.

There’s no good response to that and the boss goes slack, one arm flung over his face. A minute later, Mark throws open the door with a grumpy, “What the fuck was that.”

“I--”

“Went the fuck down in the middle of the day thanks to a one-oh-four degree fever,” Mark seethes. “You have. The goddamn. Flu. People die from the flu, straight-up die, and you didn’t think to mention it! I’m not asking for much here. Just a little heads up. Y’know, ‘hey, Jones, I’m feelin’ pretty crappy, think you can poke your head in to make sure I didn’t die in the night?’ ‘Oh, sure thing, boss, happy to help, feel better!’” The smile he plasters on is frightening. The boss doesn’t like it, not one bit, and to Mark’s credit, he drops it pretty quick. “What were you thinking? Anything? Really, I’d love your thought process.”

“‘ve handled worse on my own,” the Knight mumbles, somewhere between sheepish and stubborn. “Thought a walk would clear my head.”

Sad thing is, Antoine believes him. The brand alone is not pretty, and while Mark hasn’t said much, what he has shared is disturbing.

And. Well. It’s not like the boss has been totally silent for the past few days. Once or twice he’d woken up screaming, the kind of awful sound Antoine associates with three-feet-thick walls and Professionals. Hell, Mark had collared Trent to come and look at something, and while neither of them are sharing, that’s Bad. Trent’s not a doctor, but he knows how to hurt people...and what they look like after.

“Well, it made you worse. You’re lucky you didn’t kill someone or yourself, parading around like that. Aight, you sit up, you clear out.”

Gladly.

“Feel better, sir,” he says. “We’ve got things handled out here, so just get some rest.”

“Oh, he doesn’t have a choice. Come on, up-up...be lucky if I let you out of my sight again after this...f’I have to give you weekly check-ups, that’s what’ll happen…”

Fuck Batman, Antoine thinks tiredly. This is his fault, things never should have advanced to the point that his...sidekick...kid...whatever ended up like this. How is Gotham not screaming about kids and guns anyway, huh? That just seems like Child Safety 101. He certainly makes sure all his toys are locked up tight when the niblings are over. He sure as hell wouldn’t give them a dull knife and tell them to, like, fight a trained mercenary. That seems like a terrible idea.

Whatever. It’s not going to go any farther. Boss he might be, but he’s just not going to be allowed to be an idiot, that’s all there is to it. No more vanishing off somewhere for three days, he’ll just have to check in or something. Frank can bully him about that. It’s for his own damn good.

THE END

#Jason Todd #Arkham Knight #Antoine Drouot #Mark Jones #identity reveal #well sorta #they're more stuck on 'Batman let a child fight crime and this happened' #(nobody is happy about it either) #Jason can kiss leaving the base after six goodbye

[taliaquinn]

Why Me!? Chapter 10

"I am finally putting in my withdrawal"

“From Bustiers?” Max asked. Although somehow a small part of him knew what was about to happen. 

“From Francis Dupont,” She said, although with a bit of a smile.

Marinette finally felt happy. She was going to leave a Toxic environment, and for once she didn't give a crap about who it might hurt. What people didn't know was that in-between leaving Damocles Office, she left to go to the bathroom. Honestly, she was fully prepared to cry. However mid-sob she got a call, From Gotham. 

She quickly answered through teary eyes, not realizing she left facetime on.

“ Mari I Can't wait for you to come to you won't believe it, Bruce is going to take some time off, Cass has been a whirlwind making sure to have everything ready, Oh boy Jason and Tim are excited to meet you, Damian is excited to have a sibling to which he can teach proper Swordsmanship, and Alfred has been fussing over everything and everyone.’’ Dick was rambling while shoveling in spoonfuls of cereal into her mouth, Not even noticing he was face timing. It was amusing to Marinette. 

“Oh and Bludhav- hang on were you Crying!?” Dick suddenly seemed to notice a red-eyed Marinette. 

“Actually no I was just about to start” 

“About to start??? Huh? Maribug what’s going on?” Marinette couldn't help but flinch slightly at her new nickname. Seriously if only they knew about her extracurricular activities. She’ll be seen as such a weirdo.

“I just withdrew from my school after I got accused of assaulting someone again and honestly I’m s-so FED UP!!!! Honestly, I put in 100% in making sure the class is great and fun. Everyone has what they need. We are always the highest-ranking kids' grades wise because of me. But I can’t even say anything or else I'm being too greedy, or too narcissist or too selfish” She finally unleashed everything.

Dick seemed to be quiet and was just staring at her as she rambled. Finally, he let out a sigh god this sibling he’s only known for a bit and she's already rambling about her issues. Thank God. He couldn’t deal with another family member that liked to hide their feelings. This was his chance. 

“Maribug Listen that school honestly sounds like a sh*thole and you need to get out. The sooner the better. You know that you’re at risk right” He was a Police Officer, he knew that situations like this often ended with those who suffered from abuse blowing up. In the Worst Ways.

He decided to continue. He had a plan.

“Look ya need some perspective, some space. You’re coming to Gotham? And you’re Parents are withdrawing you from School already, by the way, excellent parenting, so you’re essentially schoolless. Why don't you apply for school here? You could go to school here for a semester and then figure out everything else.” He finally asked.

Wait a minute. That was a great idea. Ten times better than her original plan of just going home and crying while shoveling pastries and ice cream into her face. She hoped to get hopefully accepted into online Highschool. School In Gotham would be a nice change. School and Life in America would be another chance. She’ll get to learn more about her Father's family. Maman and Papa would finally be able to see another possible location to possibly open a new bakery.

“That sounds so Great you have no idea.” She said with a slight smirk.

As soon as she announced her withdrawal there was an immediate uproar. Most of the screaming came from Chloe, and Marinette couldn’t help but feel touched by how much Chloe cared. 

“ DUPAIN-CHENG YOU CAN’T ABANDON US WITH THESE IDIOTS!!!” Chloe shouted. 

All of a sudden Adrien stood up and went to grab her by the arm and drag her out. But shockingly Marinette dug in her heels and shoved his hand away. 

“No I am not going to hide away, I am going to stand here and you guys are going to Listen,” She said while staring at Adrien in the eyes. Lila for once seemed to be quiet. She was so interested in this. For once she wanted to see the outcome without her manipulation. 

“Fine” Adrien moved to sit back in Marinette's old seat. 

“I am going leave School, Right now I'm planning to enroll in a school at Gotham”

“Gotham as in crime-ridden, dirty and dark Gotham City?” Adrien asked incredulously. 

Okay, Marinette needed to do more research on Gotham City….Dick would help her get by. Hopefully. Maybe Damian had a point when he was forcing her to learn how to punch. She's been relying way too much on her magic. She wasn’t exactly bad at fighting, she was just inexperienced. Luckily Damian decided to be helpful, mean but helpful nonetheless. 

“Yes precisely that Gotham” Maybe she should have picked a Boarding school. Oh Well. Too late for regrets now.

“OH MY GOSH!? GOTHAM HAS BATMAN!!!” Alya suddenly jumped up and yelled.

“Since The Waynes suddenly left before Lila could get me an interview, You could act as my correspondent in Gotham,” She said excitedly.

“Are you kidding me no way.” Marinette spat out. Was this girl demented?

“You and Lila are both setting me up for expulsion, you released a video expecting me to get backlash-which backfired horribly by the way- and now you have the nerve to ask for my help?” Marinette seethed, upset and annoyed. Gosh, she’ll take Gotham Crazies over these Lunatics any day, at least those she would be allowed to punch. Without repercussions anyway.

“What video are you talking about Marinette?” Chloe asked because of course, that's what she focuses on.  

“The video on the Ladyblog” Max finally stated because he likes to keep track of information.

“ oh that explains why I didn’t know, I quit reading that trashy tabloid a loooong time ago”

“WHAT Bourgeois you better take it back, The Ladyblog is respected and adored”

“You're kidding, right? Please traffic on your blog has slowed ever since Aurore released her blog which is ten times better. Did you hear? Lois Lane from the Daily Planet, a very respected newspaper in America,  loved her blog and even gave her advice” Chloe taunted.

Alya was pissed. Ever since Aurore released her blog she has stolen a bunch of her audience. Honestly, her blog was losing so much traffic to Aurores since she had an endorsement from Killer Bee. 

Alya, of course, got an invitation to go to the Journalist banquet but she wasn’t allowed to take a plus one. Which of course was devastating to Lila since she couldn't go and see Damian Wayne. Poor Lila quietly told her how sorry she was since that meant she wouldn't be able to get Alya the interview. 

Of course, Alya being Alya tried to get sneak Lila in however they soon saw another girl who was trying to get in as well. However she had an invite, and Lila needed it. Lila however quickly pointed something out. 

“Alya can you believe what she’s wearing and oh go is she trying to come off as a junior reporter for some trashy tabloid, hmmm seems like someone more else deserves it more” Lila softly stated.  Of course, Lila was right, someone else deserved it. And Alya needed that interview.

Quickly Alya pulled Lila along towards the girl who was taking out her pass. 

“Excuse me, I’m sorry but I seriously need that Press Pass” Alya stated. Alyas' back was turned, so she couldn’t see Lilas growing smirk.  

The girl was slightly startled however she noticed that the red-haired girl with glasses already HAD a press pass, why would she need it? Of course, she couldn’t just SAY that. “W-why would you need it if yo-you a-already h-ha-have one?” she managed to stutter out while tightening her grip on the press pass around her neck.

“BECAUSE my friend over here was denied one, even though her boyfriend is going to be in there so please just give it to us so I can get my interview” Alya snapped she was honestly losing her patience.

“I-uh No Way it’s mi- '' Quickly as a flash, Alya leaped forward and snatched the pass straight from the girl's neck. Of course, the girl leaped forward to try and take it back. Alya, however, stepped back and roughly shoved the girl back who promptly fell back and landed on her behind, ripping the girl's skirt and tearing her suit jacket. 

Alya quickly handed the pass to Lila, who walked up behind her to take it. “You should have learned how to fight back better” Lila sneered towards the now tearful girl. Alya looped her arm around her and dragged her towards the entrance. Unfortunately for the security personnel witnessed the incident and refused to allow them entrance and were about to go check up on the girl. However, it was too late. 

“Yes Hawkmoth”

They all heard it coming from where the girl previously was.

That was one of the few times she caused an Akuma, unfortunately, they had to run after the girl was akumatized. Lila, unfortunately, had to leave due to her mother worrying. Luckily Adrien was gracious enough to grant her an interview, but he was distracted and jittery throughout the interview, a huge boom from far away caught his attention and he mumbled a quick apology and dashed off. Alya was desperate for more gossip and intel so she followed him but unfortunately lost him. Luckily she caught an argument between her ex-friend and Chat Noir. The outfit was beautiful and eye-catching, however, Alya only got angrier because that meant Marinette was allowed entrance.

Alya with the sudden realization snapped her head and glared in Marinette's Direction. 

“Why were you even allowed in?” Alya snapped. 

“Because I Designed and Made Nadia Chamacks Dress” Marinette Snapped back allowing a bit of pride to seep into the words

“Marinette Sweetheart it's time to go, we have to go and pick up your luggage before dropping your luggage,” Sabine said while standing in the doorway of the classroom. Sabine had her head turned towards Marinette, she quickly stepped out but quickly directed a glare at Madame Bustier. 

Suddenly Chloe surged forward along with Juleka towards Marinette. Chloe quickly latched to Marinette. “ MARINETTE PLEASE I AM BEGGING YOU TAKE ME TO THE STATES WITH YOU IF YOU LEAVE ME HERE WITH THESE IDIOTS I MIGHT AS WELL SAY ADIOS TO MY SANITY RIGHT NOW” Chloe wailed while still clutching to Marinette. Marinette felt bad but hey what could you do?

Juleka quickly stepped forwards and struggled to yank Chloe away from Marinette eventually needing Max to Help. Finally, with a Final tug, Marinette was released from Chloes clutches.

“Don’t Worry I’ll take care of her and keep her from committing homicide” Sabrina stated.

Marinette quickly had a few words with them. With a final Group Hug which consisted of Juleka, Max, Sabrina, Ivan, and Chloe. Chloe still had Marinette in her clutches for a few seconds afterward. With a sigh Marinette freed herself. 

She turned towards the “Lila Side” however looking at them with slight disdain. Keeping eye contact with Lila she finally said whats she's been wanting to say from the day she met Lila.

“Goodbye”

Tag List:

 @amayakans​ @depthfire

#miraculous ladybug #marinette dupain cheng #dick grayson #damian wayne #tim drake #bruce wayne #BatFam #maribat #marinette deserves better #lila salt

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #427

“don’t pray for me when you’re the one enslaved”

Your ex taps you on the shoulder and says, “I still love you.” You say? I wouldn't say anything, I'm pretty sure I'd just break down. Do you play video games? Not really anymore. :/ I probably would, though, if I had the appropriate consoles for games I want. You can only replay PS2 games but so many times before you're tired of them. Do you spend a lot of time with family? No, honestly. Is your house more than two stories tall? It only has one floor. Have you ever hit your significant other? Has he/she ever hit you? I'm not in a relationship, but I have most certainly never hit an s/o, and they've never hit me. I wouldn't tolerate that shit. What makes you an attractive person? (Talk about your personality too!) I'm not. What color is your hairbrush/comb? White. What snacks do you have available in your household atm? Hm. Just some fruity grain and oats bars, as well as cashew ones. We try to keep sweets out of the house. Has anyone recently told you that they like you, or find you attractive? No. Are you attracted to the last person you Facebook messaged? Holy fuck yes, she's drop-dead gorgeous. Do you care about anyone that doesn’t care about you? Ha, I'm sure. Was your last Facebook friend requests from a male or female? Some random middle-aged man, like who are you sir. Which one of your relatives is most likely to embarrass you? My dad. He can be so rude to people sometimes. When was the last time you ate a bar of chocolate? Not sure. It's been quite a while. Do you play any games on Facebook? No. What would you like to get a degree in? It'd be nice to get a degree in Arts, but yeah... I'm never going back to school. Do you wake up a lot in the middle of the night? Pretty much every night. Would you prefer to read a book, watch a movie or TV show, or play a video game? Play a video game. Do you usually get popcorn or soda at the movie theater? Almost without fail. You've got to, it's part of the experience. What genre of films do you like the best? Horror. How many bank accounts do you have? None, actually. Have you ever had the flu? No, thankfully. What is your goal for the next few months? To start getting in shape/losing weight. I seriously hope this gym routine works out. Have you ever had some kind of sleep-disorder? How did it affect your life? I have seveeeere sleep apnea. It's shocking, I never would've guessed it, though, so the diagnosis (I had a sleep study, so yes, it's legit) was an extreme surprise. I don't snore at all, nor do I like pass out in the middle of something, but I stop breathing A LOT. For a year or two (no, that is not an exaggeration), it caused consistent, horrible, and violent nightmares/terrors. It made sleep frightening to me, and I was never getting a truly restful sleep. Now, I have an APAP mask (like a less extreme version of a CPAP mask) that helps me greatly. I only very rarely am surprised by a more subtle nightmare now. Have you ever had food poisoning before? Describe the experience. No, thankfully. What are two things that you have no problem paying full price for? Quality tattoos, for one. And maybe uhhh... idk. We're the kind of family that buys off-brand foods and drinks all the time because it's cheaper, so I can't say that. Maybe health care? Like I wouldn't want service from a sketchy dentist or something. Funny, charming, cute, romantic, smart - choose only 2 for the opposite sex. Charming and romantic. Have you ever let somebody use you? Why did you do it? No. You can go back in time & change something in your mom’s past - what is it? That's hard for me to say. She doesn't seem to like talking about her past very much, because I know it's turbulent with her mother. I would say her being disowned, but I don't know how that *actually* affected her. Maybe it was for the better she wasn't under her mom's authority anymore. Do you know anybody who is around the exact same size as you? Who? I guess my mom, but she's actually smaller than me now. She's lost a lot of weight and is still going at it. Ever been to a haunted house? How scared were you? Not a house, but rather hay rides and those places you just walk through and experience different stuff. They don't scare me at all; I love 'em. Been on any websites today you wouldn’t want your parents to see? No. Which is worse: dusting or mopping? Ugh, mopping. I don't mind dusting. Would you marry somebody who was intensely religious? No. Did you pull a senior prank? No. That shit is so dumb. Did you graduate? High school, yes. Have you ever been unfaithful in a serious relationship? No, and I never would. What was the last song you listened to? I'm listening to Lauren Babic and Halocene's cover of "Bleed It Out" by Linkin Park right now. It's great. Are you one of those lucky people with 20/20 vision? Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeell no. Is fashion one of your interests? No. Do you think you’ll eventually find that special someone? Hell if I know. Do you care what people think? Way, way more than I should. Is acting something you enjoy? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. I feel so stupid. What was the last thing you broke/sprained? I tore a ligament badly in my foot maybe a year and a half ago. I was SO sure it was broken. My mom had to help me walk everywhere, and even when she did, I'd be whimpering and seething. Have you ever fought with a friend because of their boyfriend/girlfriend? Because of yours? No. Has a stranger ever yelled at you for your language? No. Whose house, other than yours and your families', are you most comfortable at? If we're excluding all family, I suppose Sara's? Has any of your friends’ family ever yelled at you? Probably at some point as a kid. Did you ever play a sport as a little kid? Did you enjoy it? I played a lot. The only two I really didn't like were soccer and cheerleading. Did you ever watch the show Full House? Hell yeah, I loved it as a kid. Is there a celebrity you are just DETERMINED to marry? Ha ha y'all know I joke about it, but no, not legitimately. It's not like I know him personally at all, and I'm not chasing him to California either. Just let me dream still lmao. Have you ever burned someone’s picture? No, but I've actually heard it's truly therapeutic and not just for dramatic effect, so I wouldn't be opposed to doing so if you handed me a picture of him and a lighter. What’s the longest hike you’ve ever been on? I've never hiked before. Would you ever get a lip tattoo? Uh, no. Who is the first person of the opposite sex that pops into your head? Jason. Do your parents smoke cigarettes? My dad smokes like a chimney and is 100% going to end up with cancer because of it. You should hear his cough. Mom smoked for a very, very brief period before I was born. What does one of your T-shirts have written on it? "Equal in our bones" is on my favorite shirt. Name a pet you definitely wouldn’t want. Certain inverts people are wild enough to get, like giant African centipedes in particular. Would you prefer your partner smaller or taller? Can't say I care. do you enjoy going through old pictures? Sometimes. Other times, it's too painful. It also depends on the era of the pictures. Do you believe people when they say they don’t judge people? Ha, no. We all have natural first impressions and things like that that just... happen. What did you love the most about the town you grew up in? Nothing, really... besides just childhood memories that inevitably came. My hometown was dangerous. What’s a movie that you laughed the hardest during? I'm not sure. What’s a movie you cried the hardest during? I want to say Old Yeller, but I'm not sure. What’s your favorite restaurant? Olive Garden and The Cheesecake Factory. Is there a dessert you don’t like? Yeah; I don't like pie, strawberry shortcake, and I know there're others. Favorite album? Ozzy's Black Rain. It was my introduction to metal, so there's nostalgic value there, but I also just LOVE every single song. What’s a book that you read because everyone else was reading it? None. I don't read books for that reason. Underwater or outer space? Both kinda frighten me to a degree, but I find outer space to be way cooler. So many colorrrrrrs. Dogs or cats? Cats. Kittens or puppies? Ugh, both are so cute, but I gotta hand it to kittens. Bird watching or whale watching? Whale watching would blow me away. Whales are such magnificent, awe-inspiring animals. What is your spirit animal? Probably a deer. Skittish, shy, and quiet. What was your best subject in school? English. What was your worst subject in school? Math. What is one thing you wish you knew in high school? You and Jason aren't going to last, hunty. Who is your fashion icon? I don't have one. I wear what I want/what's comfortable. Diamonds or pearls? I think diamonds are a lot prettier. What color dress did you wear to prom? First one was maroon, last one was black. What’s your favorite plot-twist? Silent Hill: Shattered Memories. My jaw actually dropped. Honestly, are you jealous of someone right now? Yes. Honestly, what’s the worst thing you’ve done when you were mad? Said things I shouldn't. Honestly, ever made anyone cry when you were mad? Yes. Honestly, when was the last time you REALLY cried your heart out? Two weeks ago or something like that. Ever pop someone else’s pimple? OH MY GOD NO alskdfa;wekrwer; Do you need to return anyone’s phone call? No. Who are you closest to? My mom. Have you ever had a bad concert experience? No. Are you currently sad about anything? A number of things. Have you had any form of exercise today? No, but tomorrow is day #2 at the gym! Can you handle blood? Yeah, np. Has any place hired you underage for a job? No. Have you ever carried a concealed weapon? No sir=ee. Are you currently searching for a job? Not anymore, at least not actively. I was going to after TMS, but I'm just... still not ready. Right now, I'm focusing on the gym and getting healthy again, but if the seemingly perfect job comes along, I'm not opposed to taking it up. Does eating breakfast make you sick? No, I've got to have breakfast or else THEN I feel awful.

#survey #surveys #random questions #lyrics: ''thoughts & prayers" by motionless in white

[perseusjackson-jasongrace]

Maybe you should do a Jercy Sick Fic?

Hello darling! I don't know if you expected like a fluffy, "let me take care of you" type of thing and if you did I am so sorry🥺but I hope this satisfies you nonetheless! This takes place in the same universe as I Am Lost and I Know My Fear, although you don't have to read either of those to understand what's going on here. 

Masterlist

I Have No Home: Part II

Percy can't breathe, there is fire scorching his throat and he can't breathe. He knows coming here was stupid, was impulsive, and irrational. His ex-girlfriend would have told him he was an idiot. Would have shouted at him for being so rash. But he knows what his boyfriend would do. What his boyfriend will do.

Because Jason Grace revels in the power, in the control. And he had followed Percy into hell more times than they can count. Percy knows he has followed him here.

"Father! Enough!" The Son of Jupiter bellows.

"He is corrupting you!" Zeus seethes, twisting his fingers into Percy's throat, letting him feel the lightning pulsing against his skin.

"He is not." Jason's voice is low, ethereal, dangerous. "He has only helped me realize my potential."

"You are SICK because of him."

"I am sick, because of you!" The blonde is stone, "And you are hurting him because you feel guilty."

"When did you get your degree in psychology?" The God spits, blue eyes a perfect mirror to Jason's, blazing with anger.

"I don't need a degree to understand guilt. When you are the child of a God guilt is part of the package."

Percy chokes, swallowing electricity and emotion.

"Let him go Father. This fight is not with him."

Zeus looks like he's going to argue, like he'll kill Percy for the fun of it anyway. But Jason's eyes narrow, pin on his father and the God releases him.

He takes gulfpuls of air, trying not to claw at his throat, at the inferno racing down it.

"You will end this madness Father. Destroying our home?" He can hear the pain in his boyfriend's voice.

"I will buy you a new one, what is the big deal?"

"The deal," Percy growls, "Is that you think you can do whatever you want with us because we are your children. But we have our own lives and you do not get to take and give as you see fit."

"I have blasted mortals for less insolence than this, nephew."

"You do not scare me, Uncle," He snarls "And your ego is what got you, us, into this mess in the first place."

"Enough." Jason holds his hand up, "I do not have long. And I'd prefer if I didn't spend the rest of my days stepping between my father and my boyfriend."

"Yea well maybe if you father hadn't decided to send Apollo on a plague adventure in the middle of our fucking quest we would all be fine."

The God glares at him, "How was I supposed to know you would be there?"

"If you cared about us, about Jase, as much as you claim you would have known."

"SHUT UP!" The blonde screams, "Both of you. I'm going home—" His voice cracks, "I'm going somewhere, and when you guys are done fighting you can call me."

Before anyone could say anything else Jason is flying into the air and disappearing.

Percy collapses onto the floor, puts his head in his hands and stifles the sob threatening to upend his whole demeanor.

"What am I gonna do?" His soul is cracking, "I can't lose him. I can't do this again."

"I didn't know." Zeus mutters stiffly, "I didn't know you guys were there."

"It doesn't matter now anyway," Percy sniffles, "I just need to spend time with him. Promise me Uncle," He looks at the God.

The King nods, motioning for him to continue.

"Promise me he will go to Elysium. He has suffered enough."

"He will go, I will make sure of it."

So Percy Jackson gets up from the cold marble floor of Olympus, stares at the God of the Sky, and then takes himself home. His home.

"Jase?"

"How did you find me?"

"I'm offended you're asking."

"I thought it'd throw you off my scent if I changed spots."

And then Percy is through the trees and into the small clearing at the top of the hill. The sun is starting to creep below the ocean and the sky is ablaze with colour. Even the city seems alive as the lights twinkle and flicker.

"I can always find my way home." He mutters softly, sitting behind his boyfriend and wrapping his arms around his torso.

Jason leans his head back so it's resting on Percy's shoulder.

"I don't want to die Pers."

He has to stop himself from screaming, from breaking down right there, "I don't want you to die either."

"I just keep thinking about what life would have been like," The blonde whispers, "If we had gotten all the years we were promised."

"Would you want children?" He asks softly, fingers caressing ribs distractedly.

They had never talked about it before, thinking they had time to live first. Life has a funny way of morphing itself into anything but what you imagine.

Jason shrugs, "Maybe. I was always more interested in trying to stay alive I never really got the opportunity to consider it."

"I don't think I did." He mumbles into his boyfriend's shoulder, kissing the soft fabric of his shirt.

"Just seems like a big responsibility for people who haven't quite figured out how to take care of themselves huh?"

They giggle, the same memory of cake batter splatters and flour handprints on their back pockets flash in their minds.

"Is there anything I can do, while you're here? Anything you want?" Percy asks after a moment of content silence.

"Just be with me. No fighting, or blaming. I just want you to hold me, tell me you love me, enjoy this time."

"I do love you Jase, I love you so much it's hard to think. It's hard to breathe." He chokes on a sob.

"Oh my love, we will meet again. In another lifetime, another place. We will find our way back to each other."

"Do you remember the summer Annabeth broke up with me?" He hugs his boyfriend tighter, eyes blurring the darkening city.

"I do, we spent ninety percent of our time in the training room. Gods, it wasn't till the next year that we stopped doing any actual training in there."

Percy laughs, "We really shouldn't have done half the things we did in that room. I'm sure if anyone knew they'd be scarred for life."

"Why do you ask?"

"I think that was the summer I learnt how to live."

"When we did nothing but train?"

"Where I got to spend time with someone who understands my darkness. It was easier," He swallows, "Easier to handle the day when I knew there was someone who understood what was going on."

"The summer Annabeth came back," The blonde murmurs, "That's the summer I found home."

"Where is that?" He asks, but he already knows the answer.

"Right here, in your arms, by your side."

Percy Jackson kisses his boyfriend's cheek and prays to Gods who won't listen, that his Jase never leaves home without him.

------------------------------------------

Here is the first part if you missed it.

#PJSSG asks #Aalikhun request #Fic requests #PJSSG fanfic #PJSSG series #Baby fanfic #Baby fanfic series #Jercy #i love my tumblr babies #not edited

[wordsfromthesol]

Back at Haly’s (1/2)

Author: @wordsfromthesol Taglist: @ghost-brocolli Pairing: Dick Grayson x Reader Summary: Dick came back into your life after way too many years. Is everything really so different? Warnings:  Language, stalker, violence Word Count: 1.7k

Part Two

It had been a long day, and the last person you wanted to see come stumbling back into the training room was Richard John Grayson. It had been nearly ten years since you had last seen him, yet here he was interrupting your practice.

“Y/N!”

You sighed upon hearing the familiar voice as you spun towards the ground on the aerial silk. Before your feet hit the ground, your harsh voice cut through the room. “What do you want, Dick?”

“Oh,” Dick ran his hand through his hair, “just visiting the ole stomping grounds. Checking in on everyone…”

“It’s been years. Why the sudden interest?”

Dick swore the chill in your voice lowered the surrounding temperature by several degrees.

“Well…uhm…you were all like family…and it’s been awhile…”

“Awhile? Are you serious? Just tell me the real reason so we can go back to living our separate lives.”

“Y/N…” Dick stretched out his arm and grasped your wrist. “Please. Let’s just go get coffee and we can talk.”

“Fine.” It was near silence as the two of your walked to the nearby coffee shop. You could tell something was weighing on Dick’s mind, but you couldn’t read the acrobat like you used to. You two were inseparable. From performing together to late nights sneaking around the tents…you thought the two of you would be together forever. If only you knew. Finally, orders were placed and a table was chosen. “Alright, I’m here. What happened?”

“I just feel like I don’t know who I am anymore. I came to Haly’s to…get some clarity. And hopefully see some friendly faces. Faces of family.”

“Dick, not to rain on your parade…but Haly’s isn’t exactly your family anymore. How can it be when we never see you? Or talk to you? I couldn’t tell you the first thing about your life and I bet you couldn’t tell me about mine.”

Dick’s eyes fell to the floor. In reality, he regularly checked in on everyone at Haly’s. But never as Dick Grayson, he felt like it wasn’t fair to get any of them involved in his new way of life. Even the new life of Dick Grayson was tolling as he was constantly in the public’s eye.

Dick definitely wouldn’t say the two of you ended on good terms, but you fell back into a familiar groove as the hour passed by. Eventually the time came to an end and you went your separate ways…though Dick insured you that he would stay in contact this time. You weren’t sure if you believed him.

**

It had been a long night; every bad guy had seemed to come out to play. Dick passed out on his couch almost immediately. Thankfully, Jason had come by to check on his brother just as his phone rang.

“Di…Dick?” Your voice shook on the other end of the phone line.

“He’s…” Jason glanced at his sleeping brother, “out of commission at the moment. I’m his much better brother. How can I help you?”

“Oh…uhm. Can you just tell Dick I called? It’s Y/N, from Haly’s.” You pulled the sentence from your throat. Pushing down the emotions.

“I have a feeling Dick would kill me if I didn’t make sure you were alright…and you definitely don’t sound alright.”

“I’m just…I…he’s talked about me? About Haly’s?”

“Well, Dickiebird isn’t the best at talking about his past. But I always catch him checking in.”

“He’s…uhm…he’s a cop, right?”

“Yeah…” Jason did not like that question. Something was definitely wrong, “why? What’s happened?”

“Just…tell him I called.”

“Y/N, wait. We’ll come to you, Dick’s waking up now and there’s no way he will have this conversation over the phone. Where are you?”

“The only place I ever am…at Haly’s.” You hung up the phone before Jason could further berate you on the situation. Now they were coming down here and you would have to divulge more information than you wanted to.

**

Jason pushed Dick off the couch. “Dick, get up.”

“Dude?! I got in from patrol like two hours ago!”

“Don’t care. Y/N needs our help.”

Dick’s eyes shot open, “Y/N? Wait…how do you know her?” Before Jason had time to answer, he was already tying his shoes.

“She called you while you were sleeping. I answered. She’s at Haly’s.”

“Let’s go then.” Dick motioned for his brother to follow.

**

They made their way towards Y/N’s trailer, Dick growing more and more impatient as there was no answer. Just as he was about to kick in the door, Jason placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Breathe Dick. Where else would she be? Where does she practice?”

Dick let out an exasperated sigh and pointed towards the gym. As the two walked in, Dick’s eyes trailed to the top of the aerial silk. He called out to you, relieved.

“Y/N!”

As you sat near the ceiling, the silk twisted around your body, you realized that you couldn’t run any longer. Dick would want an explanation. You glanced at your injured shoulder, readying yourself for the pain of dismounting.

“Y/N!” Dick called out again. You couldn’t delay any longer, you began to fall down the silk. Jason, unfamiliar and unprepared, raced over in an attempt to catch you. Stopping inches above his arms, he quickly stepped back, allowing you to place your feet on the ground.

“What happened?” Dick walked towards you shooting a familiar glare at Jason. You kept your back to him, not wanting to reveal the injuries just yet.

“Nothing…it’s nothing. I overreacted on the phone, I’m sorry Jason.”

Jason grasped your injured shoulder, furrowing his brow with concern as you winced at the touch. “That’s not nothing.”

“Y/N, turn around.” Dick’s tone was stern and commanding.

Reluctantly, you faced the brothers, bracing yourself for the onslaught. “Really…” you began. “It’s nothing. I’ll head to the cops and get a restraining order tomorrow…”

“Y/N…” Dick stepped closer and placed his hands on your bruised face. You sighed as you briefly leaned into the touch before stepping back. “What happened?”

You spent the next hour recalling everything. You caught the attention of a stalker about a year ago, it never went farther than the awkward conversations or the constant run-ins, so you never told anyone. The past month, he had gotten bolder, showing up at closed practices and trying to touch you every moment he got. Finally, last night, he broke into your trailer. He saw you with Dick earlier that day and thought you were trying to get rid of him.

“Name?” Jason seethed through his teeth once you were done recalling the events.

“I…uhm…I don’t know. I never wanted to know.”

“You’re staying with me until this is cleared up. Pack a bag.”

“Dick…I have to practice and I have shows to do.”

“Well, I’m talking to Haly…because you’re not performing until that shoulder heals.”

“We both know that is unrealistic…unless you want to take my place.”

“Done. Now pack a bag.” Dick glanced over at his brother whose knuckles were turning white. “Jason…” Dick placed an arm around his brother’s shoulder in an effort to relax him.

Jason attempted to shake the anger from his body. “Yeah, let me…stop by the manor real quick and I’ll be over.”

Dick simultaneously glared and scowled at him, out of warning and anger.  

**

“Alright, bed.” You instructed your childhood friend as soon the two of you stepped foot into the apartment.

“I should wait until Jason gets here.”

“Dick…I’m sure if anything catastrophic happens you will wake up. You need sleep, people are going to start mistaking those circles under your eyes for black holes.”

“Heh, I missed you Y/N/N.”

“Yeah, I’m pretty great…soo…” You left the comment hanging as you pushed Dick into the bedroom.

You had just settled onto the couch and turned on the tv when Jason came sauntering through the door.

“Where the hell is Dick?”

“Asleep, so shut up.”

“He left you?!” Jason began to walk towards the bedroom door, but you jumped up and stood in his way.

“What is with you two. I practically had to force him to sleep. This dude has no idea where I am…I think we can all relax.”

Jason clenched his teeth together and made his way to the couch.

**

It had been several days and you hadn’t gotten one minute to yourself. You were slowly starting to go crazy and it didn’t help that Dick and Jason spent most of the day bickering at each other. Finally, you couldn’t take it anymore…you needed to get your mind off of everything, you needed your silks. You slunk back into the bedroom as the two brothers continued to hammer away at each other. As you opened the window you let out a small sigh of relief. You were so close to freedom. Carefully you climbed out the window and leapt your way onto the various ledges until you were on the ground. Haly’s was only a few miles away and you were itching for the chance to run and train again.

You made record time and hoped Dick wasn’t already here. You just needed a few hours alone. A few hours to pretend your life hadn’t blown up last week. Rounding the corner, you let out a sigh of relief at the sight of the empty gym.

Though you relished in the ability to train once again, you got to the top of the aerial silk and couldn’t bring yourself to move. You sat there intertwined with the fabric, staring at the off-white wall. How had everything gone so wrong so quickly.

**

“Well, where the hell did she go? Did you say something to her?” Dick accused his brother.

“Me? If anything she was getting annoyed with you.” Jason retorted.

“Whatever, she’s probably made her way back to the circus by now. I’ll go get her. Stay here.”

“You’ve lost it if you think I’m letting you go by yourself.”

“She doesn’t need you for this, Jason.”

“Fuck off.”

“You can’t have her.” Dick turned towards his brother, the anger in his tone diminished as it turned to despair. “She was my first friend. My first kiss. My first love. She was everything…I can’t lose that again.”

Jason let out a sigh, “Tell her that. I’ve survived worse and I’m still coming with you.”

#dick grayson #dick grayson x reader #dick grayson imagine #dick grayson oneshot #dick grayson x you #nightwing #nightwing x reader #nightwing imagine #nightwing oneshot #nightwing x you #jason todd #jason todd x reader #jason todd imagine #jason todd x you #red hood #red hood x reader #red hood imagine #red hood x you #batboys #batboys imagine #batboys x you #batfam #batfam imagine #batfam x you #batfam x reader #batboys x reader

[green-and-grey-kenaz]

Solace in Plato

Language: English

Characters: Nico di Angelo, Will Solace, Chiron

Summary: With the now rather alarming prospect of actually reaching adulthood being a reality, Nico has agreed to tutoring under Chiron's guidance. When Plato is suggested as something to study, Nico is not impressed and avoids it. A few weeks later and Will Solace asks him whether he's actually read Plato or just an abridged version.

Just a little fic exploring their relationship and Nico's internalised issues with being gay.

Word Count: c. 2 500

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32634607

“I hate Plato.” Nico muttered, staring at the book placed in front of him as he sat in the library of the Big House. Having not had any formal education since the ‘30s, Chiron had taken it upon himself to help educate Nico should he wish to get exam results - which would be useful for getting a job or Athena believe it, going to University. Neither was a prospect that he had ever really considered possibilities but the alternative was staying here and helping out with the new recruits while Will went to University in a few years time or doing the same thing but in New Rome.

Because Will insisted that he wanted to help the world, not just demigods. Nico didn’t deserve him.

So he’d agreed to go along with this and when Chiron had asked him if there was any subjects he thought he might take at University (and after Nico had suggested undertaker, mortician or detective based on a TV show Will had told him about, don't ask) he had begrudgingly admitted that he had more than a passing interest in Classics. Try as he might, his childish obsession with mythomagic had left him with more than a passing knowledge of Classical characters and he got a strange, warm feeling in his chest when he knew the answer to ‘how do we kill this obscure monster’ and no one else did.

Based on these answers, he had a somewhat tailored learning with Classics in both Italian, English and the Original Ancient Greek (his Greek was amazing for his age - a by-product of being a half-blood - but apparently his English reading skills were that of a kid and his Italian not much better, Hades knew why) and more than his fair share of biology and chemistry. Will had been only too delighted to help him with the sciences, although was suspiciously absent when it came to physics and math, but that was OK, really, and he probably wouldn’t make a good mortician anyway because he shouldn’t pick careers based on how many spirits he could raise, tempting as it was. The rest of his schooling thought? That fell to Chiron.

And today? Well, apparently they had progressed onto Philosophy and a man who's work made Nico's stomach plummet. Plato.

“Why is that?” Chiron asked, a patient expression on his face. Nico just glowered at him but like Will, he seemed impervious to it. It was irritating when people did not cower and cave in to his glares. He was used to inspiring fear in others.

“Do I need a reason?” Nico his arms, leaning back on the chair, returning a dark gaze to the book as if he could cause it to wither and crumble under his gaze. If he could do it to food, why not books? Plato sat cheerfully happy there without so much as a speck of mold coming to grace it.

“When discussing philosophy, it can be rather helpful.”

“Well I just don’t like him. Pick some other philosopher.”

Chiron had stared at him for a good few seconds before relenting, choosing some other book and asking no further questions about it. Nico hated that he could feel just how his heart rate had picked up, thundering in his chest as if it would crack open his rib cage. He knew people suspected… that the people he tolerated as friends already knew and accepted him for his inclinations… for what he was… but he wasn’t ready to confront the proof that he was different. Wrong, a voice always threatened to whisper in his ear. An abomination. A freak of nature. Nico knew that he couldn't read Plato, not with Chiron standing there and dissecting the merits of this particular work. It was never easy to look in the mirror and see just how messed up you were.

Despite the time it took for his heart to return back to normal, he did manage the text they’d chosen and perhaps sensing his unease, Chiron had used it as a chance to work on his reading more than the philosophy. He even finished the lesson with a kind smile and was informed that his modern language skills had far approached where they should be for someone his age. This followed with a suggestion that he could go into translation work. It was tempting, he would be better able to hide away in a darkened room as a translator than becoming an academic (sadly, these days academics had more obligations to teach), so Nico nodded and promised to think on it.

Two weeks later found Nico sitting in the shadows of the forest while Will quizzed him on anatomy which counted as studying for both of them. Annoyingly Will was refusing to sit anywhere other than the sunlight and so had coerced Nico into what they had settled on as being called ‘a potential threat to his aesthetic’, or in other words, dappled shade. It had promised to be a rather lovely day until a topic best avoided reared its head.

“Why do you hate Plato?” Will asked suddenly, looking up at him with those bright eyes and that warm smile that made something in his stomach twitch and his throat clench. Nico knew he shouldn’t feel so ill at ease with these feelings. They hadn’t put a word on it but it was a thing that they were doing. Having feelings together, exchanged smiles and moments of laughter when he thought no one was watching. Once, Will had even placed his hand down a mere inch from Nico’s and he had let his little finger flicker to just once lightly tap against Will’s in thanks for the silent support. He’d felt sick with guilt afterwards, but what was new? The little moments of happiness more than made up for it.

“I just do. And Chiron shouldn’t have told you that.” He muttered, shifting to move back under the full shade of a tree, pulling his legs in to his chest as Will closed the book. Right, study was over. Nico wrapped his arms around his legs, finger shifting the skull ring as he felt the pressing anxiety to run and escape the potential fallout. How many people knew? No doubt his unnaturalness was being spoken of throughout camp as he sat here. They would prove Jason wrong that times had changed. Their eyes would follow him, judging and radiating hate for someone who was so different. He’d have to leave and go back on the run, abandoning all he had built here. Nico closed his eyes as the feelings became overwhelming and claustrophobic, grass yellowing beneath his feet.

“He was concerned.” Will said softly, shifting over to sit next to Nico and breaking his silent panic.

“I’m not talking about it.”

“Is it Plato’s Sympo-?”

“No.”

“Hm. That’s what Chiron thought as well.” Nico could hear amusement in Will’s voice and concern. He dropped his hands from twisting the ring, suddenly subconscious of his tell and instead twined blades of dead grass between his fingers and yanked. His hand opened to let the picked grass tumble back to the earth.

“Did you read the original or just hear an abbreviated version?” Will pressed.

“Have you read it?” Nico challenged, ripping up more grass.

“Not until last week. Chiron sat me down with it and we discussed it.”

“Then you know why I can’t stand Plato.”

“Abbreviated version, huh?”

Nico looked over to Will who did not look disgusted, upset or any of the other myriad of emotions that he would have expected. Did he not read the whole mankind were once male and female, now split and eternally trying to recombine with their other half? Which left them and whatever they had rather in the dirt. Because if there was one thing that was worse than knowing he wasn’t right, that there had been some huge mistake with his creation, it was knowing that someone as good as Will Solace had the same affliction. Sure, he could be annoying but Will deserved more than that. He shouldn’t be a broken half. If anyone deserve to be able to become whole once more, it was Will. Will, who was staring at him like he expected some answer and Nico shrugged, yanking more grass.

“So what? I was like eleven. Not exactly likely to go and read the actual version. I deserve credit for even doing that much.” He couldn't actually remember how he'd heard it. He had found out that it was from Plato's Symposium after he knew the story, that much he knew. He assumed either he had read it very young or perhaps some ghost had told him. Most of his pre-Camp Half Blood lessons had come from ghosts in one form or another.

“Perhaps you should. I rather liked the bit about the straights all being nymphomaniacs and adulters.” Will smirked.

Nico frowned, his body freezing as he blinked very slowly trying to make what Will had said align with what he knew. A frown tugged at his brow.

“What… do you mean…?”

“Well, the whole bit about there being people made of two parts, either two men, two women, or a man and a woman, always trying to get back together. And the same sex ones generally being the better lot. Well, more the two men combos because they weren’t necessarily the most progressive in Ancient Greece. But in the end, that’s just a story that Plato had Aristophanes, who was a comedic playwright, tell. It’s not really anything to be taken too seriously.”

How had no one told him that? A dark anger settled into the pit of Nico's stomach and he found himself wanting to track down whichever spirit had lied to him and- Will continued speaking, his voice too light for Nico to continue his thoughts and the seething hatred dissipated.

“Honestly, read it if you don’t believe me. Chiron sat me down and took me through the whole story, every boring line after every boring line. I’m not supposed to tell you this because he’d rather you told him when you’re ready but he kind of clocked that you and I-” Nico shot Will a death glare and Will held up his hands.

“I was going to say get on well! And yeah, considering your aversion to Plato, he thought it might be you heard a misrepresented version of that story. We both know about festering wounds so agreed you should learn the truth of the matter. Preferably not by forced study so I kind of had to get an impromptu philosophy lesson. I think Chiron intended me to be rather more subtle about his involvement but my assessment is that it is better to know that you’re not alone and that it’s OK.”

Nico did not want to stare at Will. He did not want to look shocked nor rattled. He focused on plucking more grass and trying not to feel pleased that Will could sit in silence, knowing he needed time to speak and for it not to feel awkward.

“I just.” Nico frowned. The story had not exactly haunted him but it had lodged itself into his chest as further proof of all he had been raised to understand. It felt like a screw had been loosened somewhere deep within. “It isn’t saying that… well…?”

“No,” Will smiled. “And, I mean, the best thing about it is Plato actually wasn't arguing for the gays or the straights. There’s just like this collection of discussion by some old dudes on the meaning of love and then Socrates comes in boom at the end and we get Platonic love , or the basics of it. Big advocation for love being about the search for the meeting of minds rather than physical stuff, which I think is a rather good way to look at it. It goes on to being about then true love is a love of knowledge. That’s what the whole thing is kind of about. I think. Most of it went over my head.”

“That… doesn’t sound so bad.” Nico admitted, his hands winding around some grass but not yet pulling. He focused on the texture of it in his palm and it ground him.

“Besides, it’s not like it’s the be all and end all.” Will continued. “It’s just some guy arguing about love two thousand years ago and what do they know?”

Nico hummed, chin resting on his knees as he stared out at the camp below them. Will moved to sit closer, mirroring his position merely a foot away. If either of them leaned just a bit, their head might rest on the other one’s shoulder and Nico did not shift away.

“I just… As long as I can remember I’ve always been told that love is between a man and a woman. I just seemed inescapable. It didn’t matter who was teaching…” It wasn’t easy and words caught in his throat.

“Look, I know it’s complicated and none of this is going to be easy but I just want you to know that if you need to talk about something, you have me. And if you don’t want to talk to me about it, then Chrion is there too-”

“No.” Nico said hastily, blinking in surprise at that. “That is… I’d rather talk to you than Chiron. About things.” He noticed that at some point, Will had placed a hand, palm upwards between them. Hesitantly, Nico slipped his hand down, ghosting his fingers over Will’s. He did not move or even look at him and somehow feeling safer in that knowledge Nico let his fingers intertwine.

It was better than the grass.

“But when I’m ready. There’s… I’ve got a lot to figure out about all this but I know whatever I think, I enjoy what we have and I don’t want to not feel this.” He twisted their hands so Will’s was on top now and his fingers brushed against Will’s knuckles and down the proximal phalange before circling the knuckles again. Will’s thumb brushed against his and Nico felt his body begin to tense against the warmth and sparks of feelings. In moments like this, it was hard to believe that what they had was wrong.

“I don’t want to not feel like this either.” Will smiled and the distance between them seemed less, although Nico could not say how the gap had closed.

If they really were two halves of a whole, Will had to be his better half, Nico reflected as he felt his head drawn to rest feather light on his… on Will’s shoulder. Yes, it felt like this might be completion or at the very least something that Nico had not felt for an even longer period: contentment.

#Nico di Angelo #will solace #percy jackson series #heroes of olympus

[nightowlfandom]

Jung Hoseok- Amor Fabula~Follow me

...

So this is my longest one yet. This particular entry is for the Amor Fabula Project for Valentines Day for the @btswriterscorner​​ network. 

Setting- A fictional futuristic made-up version of South Korea featuring a place called Flash City, etc. A little island off the coast of SK which is its own ‘country’, called Nue island connected by a huge bridge which leads into SK itself.

I have no idea how many words this is. All I know is that it is VERY LONG AND MY FINGERS ARE READY TO FALL OFF HELP ME!

Leggo! (Still not getting rid of it, fight me.)

...

“Y/N, what on Earth are you doing in there!” the voice of your mother rang on the other side of your bedroom door. “You’ve been in there all day! Are you alright?”

“I’m fine!” you could only reply as a partially annoyed sigh escaped your throat.  “Did you need something?!”

“As a matter of fact I do need something!” your mother’s voice lowered as the door opened. She entered through the doorway. “Are you okay with pizza for lunch?.” she asked.

“Sure, I guess.” you replied, smiling sideways. “Is Dad working late again?” In all honesty, you knew the answer, you just figured it wouldn’t hurt to ask every day. Even though the answer was yes. Every single time.

“You know your father works late, it might just be us for the rest of the day.” she replied, stepping further into the room. “But that’s alright, isn’t it?”

“As usual.” you seethed, turning back to the book on the table. “When does he not work late.” you casually flicked over the next page. “Let me guess, another set of parents is ready to sell out their innocent offspring.”

“Y/N.” you mother said in a warning tone. “You know that kind of talk is what got you into trouble last time.”

“Mother.” you rebutted with just as much attitude. “Don’t act like I’m wrong.” you mumbled.”And don’t even think about trying to get me to forgive him for considering my premature Deciding.”

“Y/N, he’s trying his best.” she sighed. “You know that.”

“Oh is he now?!” you snapped, slamming your fist on the table.

 It was a touchy subject for you, your father. You weren’t sure how to describe your relationship with him other than shouting matches and glares across the dinner table. It’s been that way for a long time. You were positive he regrets ever giving birth to you in the first place. The feeling was mutual. He was just itching to haul you off on some rich asshole.  

It was called The Deciding. It was law in all of Nue Island that parents decide who their sons and daughters will marry. It’s a huge ceremony, like a wedding! Only this to you was like a prison sentence. It was a huge tradition and everyone on Nue Island followed this code. Love didn’t exist here, only business “Bullshit, no offence but can we not talk about my dad, I want to enjoy my weekend.”

"Well your grandparents have crazy ideas of human life." she sat next to you, ignoring the jab at your father. "I remember your grandfather used to tell me the stories he tells you whenever he comes over. I used to be just like you, so enthralled with such a crazy thing like love. I wanted it so bad, I’d do anything to find it. I almost left Nue Island and became a singer."

"What caused you to stop?" you could only look at her like she was crazy. "Why would you stop in the first place?" you raised an eyebrow. “Because of a The Deciding? Because of the government? Why?!”

"Of course not!" she replied. "I just realized that some things were more important, Y/N. Something like love doesn't ensure you'll be financially successful for the rest of your life. Love doesn't assure you'll always be happy. Love doesn’t mean that you’ll always be loved.“ she explained. You weren't buying it. In fact you were so close lashing out. Your mom was brainwashed. It wasn't fair. Not by a long shot.

"But this does? There are a bunch of abusive losers who get put with innocent people every day and the parents don’t care!" you couldn't help but jump back to your feet again. This place was built of a bunch of old weird guys trying to tell you who to make babies with. You detested it with all of your heart and your father just so happened to be one of those weird guys who did that. "This Deciding thing uses people and since the population is small, no one cares to even question it!"

"Y/N, name five times that's happened." your mother narrowed her eyebrows to stare at you with a stern gaze.

"1998 Ella Rigby and Ian Song. Ella wound up drugging Ian, putting him in jail then marrying his brother whom she divorced and took his entire company, leaving him with nothing left. 2004 Maya Darle and Jason Way. Jason nearly choked Maya to death before his arrest for TAMPERING with the system for him to get a second wife. 2009 Dillion Baker and Tiffany Ping, Soyung Ma and Keaton Clark, Carla Manning and Peyton King-"

"Okay Y/N I get it! You don't like the Deciding, not a lot of people do...but it's the way of life." your mother stood up to face you. "But Y/N, this dream of yours...is only that. A dream, and you need to wake you before you hurt yourself with a fantasy."

"Fantasy is better than a reality." you mumbled to yourself as your mother took you into a warm hug. "Can I ask you a question?" you said out loud. "Don't lie to me...do you love me and dad?"

"Why would you ask that? I care for you very much!" your mother ran a few fingers through your hair. That didn’t mean she loved you...it just means she raised you.

"And dad?"

"......I've grown to admire him, he takes care of us. His parents thought I was a good match for him and I had to abide, no matter how much my parents hated the idea. That’s what every woman dreams of, right?" was all she said. Translation: Hell No. "But Y/N, listen to me. Whatever is going through you head, you have to get rid of it right away. Your brain is dangerous, My love."

"My brain isn't dangerous, it just knows what it wants." you grumbled as she tightened her arms around you.  "Mom,I...I just-"

"Why don't we go and get those pizzas." she cut you off. You decided to kick what you were going to say and just nod with a fake smile. It was better to get off the subject before you broke your mother's brain trying to get her to understand you. It wasn’t her fault after all.

"Great, let's go."

...(Time Skip) (Read more below the cut)

You had decided to part away from your mother just to wander into the nearest store. It was a small boutique ran by an elderly woman and her husband and their son. It was where you were able to really breathe. Mrs. Chu and her husband were like you. You wouldn't really say they were against the whole Deciding system, mostly because they were those rare people who fell in love after the fact. Probably the only couple on Nue Island that this worked for.

"Y/N, come to shop again?" Mrs. Chu welcomed you with her arms wide open. You walked into her outstretched arms, feeling a firm pat on the back. "How are you today?"

“The same way I am every other day.” you shrugged, helping yourself to the various assortments of incense. “But you don’t want to hear about that.” you could only put on a false smile and change the subject as quickly as possible. “Are these sandalwood?”

“Ah you have a good eye for smells!” she winked.  Ha...get it? Good eye...for smells? You smell with your nose but like...you see with your eyes? No? Okay.

“Ah, it’s all my mother likes.” you scrunched up your nose, skipping over that display. “Do you have anything special?”

“ Well lucky for you, a new shipment of moonstone just arrived. I saved a some stones just for you. Come!” she went under the desk and pulled out a tiny box. You walked up to the checkout counter to face her."For my favorite customer." She put the box in your hands. "You can use them for the full moon tradition. I’ve put a new twine strings in there for you to make jewelry for the event."

"The full moon tradition?" another voice grabbed your attention. You turned to the door to see a boy walking in. You had never seen him before, and you knew almost everyone in town. You could only wonder who he was.

"Ah Hoseok, come!" Mrs.Chu waved this stranger over. "I have the stones you ordered as well." Mrs.Chu knew everyone in town, so it didn’t surprise you that she knew him. It was strange how you’ve never seen him before yourself.

The man strode across the room, raising his sunglasses to rest on his head. As to not seem like a creeper, you turned back towards Mrs.Chu. Before she could say anything else, Mr.Chu and his son Winston walked out of the back area.

"Y/N! I thought I'd never see you." Mr.Chu welcomed you with a wistful smile on his face. "I hope all is well with your spirit. I also see you've managed to get ahold of some moonstones. Maybe you can follow the full moon tradition."

"What's that?" you found yourself asking. "I've never heard of that before."

"It's said that if you wear a moonstone on a full moon, it'll lead you to the love of your life." You turned towards the stranger who had replied for Mr.Chu , raising your eyebrows. “Nue Island tradition.” he winked.  

“Interesting.” You trailed off, allowing yourself to get a good look at him. The more you stared, the more interesting he seemed.

“Y/N.” Mrs. Chu had gotten your attention, holding a small shopping bag towards you. “Tell you mother to come by, we have things to discuss!” You hadn’t realized you were staring at the stranger so long.

"Oh, right...thank you Mrs.Chu." you bowed respectfully. "How much would that be?"

"This time...it's on me. You don’t pay this time." she seemed to look between you and whoever had just walked in.

"Oh, okay." You looked over at Mr. Chu and Winston, who seemed just as confused as you were. You didn't want to seem rude or pushy, so you didn't really question it at all. "I'll see you next week I guess!" you began to wave as you went to take a few steps. You could feel that Hoseok guy's eyes on your back as you walked to the door. Out of sheer curiosity, you stopped and turned your head a little. You were meet by his gaze, distant and lost. Kind of like you. 

He cracked a small smile. The genuine kind that reached his eyes. You were almost taken aback. Literally no one in town was like that, just smiling for no reason. In fact, they were more focused on themselves and themselves alone. When a town like this was against the concept of human affection, it was hard not to be surprised.

"Y/N?!" you whipped your head back towards the door and saw your mother carrying the pizza. Without another thought, you left the shop with the shopping bag. "There you are! Where were you?" she shook her head, practically hauling off what was in her arms onto you. "Your father is coming home early and needs us to be at the house. Apparently an accident at work caused him to be left off early." You were more worried about how and why what little in your hands was enough to obscure your vision .

"Great." you mumbled, following behind. "Okay Y/N, baby steps." You slowly took one step forward. "Alright, doing good! Now for another." You were dangerously close to stepping off the curb onto the road. "Mom I don't want to be rude but I'm sort of struggling here!" You didn't hear her reply, you weren't even sure she ended up replying at all.

“Mom?!” you tried to peek over the heap of shit in your hands. She was walking ahead of you to the car. She looked like she was in the phone. “Oh come on!...MOOOMM!”

“Can I help you?”

“Huh? Who said that?!” you turned your head to try and see who was talking.

“Um, I’m right here?”

“Well I can’t see you!”

“Here, let me just-”  

You had a death grip on your mother’s purse, just incase this random was trying to scam you or something. When you had finally relaxed your hands, you realized it was that Hoseok guy from Mr and Mrs. Chu’s shop.

“Thanks.” was all you could say.

“No problem. You’re Y/N, right?”

“Um, yeah.” you nodded nervously. “You’re Hoseok.” you concluded.

“Y-yeah. I’ve seen you around before.” he cracked another smile.

“ Really? I’ve never seen you around here.”

“I don’t usually hang around. I keep to myself sometimes.”

“What changed?” you joked. 

“..Wouldn’t you like to know.” he chuckled.

“Y/N!” your mother’s howling could be heard across the parking lot.

“And that’s my cue, I think I got it this time.” you leaned forward to take the pizzas only to notice Hoseok was staring at you. There was something in his haze that put you off a little. Even if you couldn’t put your finger on what it was exactly. “Maybe I’ll see you around?”

“Oh...yeah. Sure!” he finally came to his senses and gave you what was in his arms. “I hope I can see you again and by the way-” Hoseok stopped you from getting too far. You turned around to see what he wanted. “Good luck with the Moonstone Tradition.”

“...Same to you.” you smiled a little. You walked over to your mom’s car and was able to get in after convincing your mom to actually help you this time.

...

As you walked through the door, you ignored your dad who was sitting in at the dining table with his nose in a newspaper.

“Y/N, give your father a proper greeting.” You could hear your mother struggling to get through the door. You had hauled off everything into her hands like she had done to you. 

“Hey Dad.” you said in a monotone voice. You father just ignored you. Either he didn’t hear you or he didn’t care enough to ask you to repeat yourself. “That’s what I thought.” You bolted right up to your bedroom, basically slamming the door as you rushed over to the desk. The first thing to tumble out was the box of moonstones.

“Full moon tradition.” you huffed. “ It’ll lead me the the love of my life.” You repeated the words you heard at Mrs. Chu’s shop. You pulled out a long piece of twine. “Am I really doing this?” The things you’ll do for love, literally.

And so you sat there, crafting a necklace for some strange tradition you’ve never heard of even in all your years of living on the island. Mrs. Chu was a wise woman, but this one was something you had a hard time believing. Then again you were the same moron who believed in love. After a couple minutes of trial and error, you managed to make yourself a pretty nifty looking necklace. According to your calendar, the next full moon was tomorrow night. You just had to wait!

... (The next night)

The beach was so peaceful at night. It was good to be alone with everything racking your brain. It was great to just sit inside the beach-side diner and stare outside at the water without actually being near it. It was literally the only good thing about Nue.

It was a long walk away but very much worth it for the thinking you were able to do. What type of place were you living in? Where parents who didn’t believe in the concept of love were free to just...choose for their children? What type of person, what type of parent would even entertain such bullshit!

“Fuck.” you glared down at whatever you decided to drown your sorrows in.

“Hard day?”

You looked up and found Hoseok standing right in front of you.

“Are you following me now?” you scoffed, turning your head to look out the window. “Or is this place just smaller than I initially thought?”

“Hey, maybe this moonstone thing is legit. Why else would we be on the beach at this hour?” he chuckled. “Can I sit?”

“Go ahead.” you mumbled in reply.

“You look upset.” he commented. “Is everything okay?”

“I’ll let you know when I figure out the answer for myself.” you chuckled, turning your head to face him. You noticed he was wearing his own moonstone, only it as wrapped around his wrist. 

“Well, the only way to fix that is my just having a one on one with yourself.” he replied, that’s really the only answer. “Either that or talk to someone.”

“Well, no offense, but that advice is way outdated. No one really considers how I feel with most aspects of my life.” you expressed. You were quiet for a minute. Hoseok had begun to look everywhere but at you. It would seem you bought down the mood. “How about you?”

“Hm?”

“It’s 10:45 at night.What are you doing at a  diner on a Saturday night?” you raised an eyebrow in curiosity. “I’ve said my peace, what’s with you?.”

“To be honest, I needed to think about some things. I’ve been thinking, this town doesn’t really do it for me anymore.” he shook his head. “Everyone here is crazy on this whole Deciding thing.”

“That makes two of us.” you commented. “Where were you thinking of relocating?”

“Neo-Seoul, just over the bridge. No stupid, conniving parents. No Deciding. Just a bunch of lights... I can make my career there.” he smiled, mainly to himself it looked like. “Just a bunch of lights and a huge studio.”

“Dreams which are?”

“Nah, I won’t say. You’ll probably laugh at me too.” he waved you off.

“I will not!” You sat up, suddenly very interested. “Come on, tell me. I’ll tell you mine!”

“I wanna be a choreographer.” he answered sheepishly, looking away from you.

“...I want to be a designer.” you rested your chin in the palm of your hand. “This town isn’t exactly doing it for me either. What did your folks think of that?”

“They think I’ve lost my mind, but I don’t want to get married to some girl I don’t love only to have loveless sex, with a loveless child, and be stuck in some half assed marriage for the rest of my life!” he snapped. “Not to mention...this place feels way too small for what I want to do.”

“I feel the same way!” you suddenly straightened up, moving your cup over to lean forward as you were now very into this conversation. “So this big city...there no Deciding there? No lotto?”

“Almost like it doesn’t even exist.” he replied, seriousness in his eyes. “When I get enough money I’m moving there. I have a few buddies who live right in the heart of Flash City. They’ve been trying to convince me to move up there, but something’s sorta been keeping me here for a while.”

“What kind of names are those? Strange titles for a city, wouldn’t you say?”

“Then again...maybe Nue is just a few steps back. There are just some things you have to remember about this place...”

“What is that?” you tilted your head to the side.

“I’ll let you know when I figure out the answer for myself.” he winked, using your own words against you.

“Touchè” you giggled.

...(Time skip)

“So what type of choreographer do you want to be?”

“Mostly hip hop, you know? I tried ballet and I almost broke my neck.” he replied laughing. You two were walking down the road. Hoseok had offered to walk with you on the way home since his house was just a few blocks ahead. How you didn’t know this was a plot point that could only be filled in with the fact that you’ve never paid attention.

“Aww I bet you’d look so good in a tutu!” you teased, flicking his arm.

“Oh stop it!” he groaned. “Let me guess, you want to design prom dresses or maybe those pretty little trash can liners?” he fired back with his own joke.

“Actually no...I want to make the type of clothes you see idols wear on stage when they perform.” you explained. “My father wants me to to work in the Deciding department but that isn’t what I want to do. I want to make something that people see and like.”

“What about your mom?”

“I don’t know. I wish she would see where I’m coming from.” you shook your head. “I love my mom, but...Oh...here’s my stop.”

“Oh, I guess time just flew by.” he replied.

“Yeah.” you stared down at your shoes. “Hey-”

“Hey- Oh sorry.”

“No.” you shook your head. “You first.”

“I know we’re basically strangers to each other, but...you wanna go somewhere with me tomorrow?”

“Tomorrow?” you repeated. 

“Yeah, take a little trip with me. My family thinks I’m going on a business trip.” he chuckled. “Would that be something, you’d be interested in?”

“Oh...sure!” you nodded a little too enthusiastically. “Yeah, totally!”

“Cool...be up early, it’ll be a long drive.” he winked before walked down the porch steps. “Meet me by Mrs.Chu’s shop. I’ll pick you up. See you in the morning.” he smiled as he walked off. You could only stand at the door, smiling as you watched him walk off.

“Thank you moonstone.” you chuckled to yourself as you opened the door. You were surprised to see your dad standing there with his arms crossed. “Wowww dad, going somewhere?” you raised an eyebrow.

“The office called. I must be going.” he said in a monotone voice. “Y/N...don’t let these newly formed mannerisms of yours become too much of a habit.” he switched places with you, now standing outside, you standing inside. He took it upon himself to close the door, leaving you to wonder just what the hell he was going on about. Your mother was sitting at the dining table, wiping the sides of her mouth with a napkin. 

“Wanna tell me why dad is turning into The Riddler all of a sudden?” you raised an eyebrow. You mother didn’t answer, she just gave you a look then rose from her seat, walking into the living room. “Um...Goodnight?”

You had a mind to go back and demand what was on her mind, but decided against it.

...

“Hey! You came!” Hoseok looked genuinely surprised to see you. he threw his arms around you in a crushing hug. 

“Did you expect me not to?” you half-joked. You looked up at him, raising an eyebrow at his statement. 

“I was hoping you would.” he smiled. Hoseok didn’t let you go, but you didn’t stop him either. Hugs between strangers were a rarity on Nue, it was kind of comforting. “I’m happy you’re here. Come on! Let’s go!” He opened the car door for you, allowing you to climb in.

“Where are we going?” You asked as he walked around to the driver seat. “You still didn’t say.” you closed the door just as he did. 

“It’s a surprise, but trust me. You’ll love it.” he winked. “You should relax, it’ll be a super long drive.”

“In that case do you mind if I take a nap? I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night.” you confessed sheepishly.

“Oh, yeah of course! Make yourself comfortable.”

You didn’t answer after that. Instead you found yourself trying your hardest to get comfortable. It was difficult with how you were sitting but you could only try your best. Hoseok remained quiet as you finally fell asleep. He turned to look at you before he started the car. You fell asleep pretty fast which was good. You would be able to rest easy for the long drive. 

A few hours passed by. Hoseok was focused on the road seemingly in his own world when you woke up. The first thing you saw when you opened your eyes was the view of Nue Island, but from super far away.

“What?” you whispered. Straightening yourself up, you turned to look at Hoseok who was heavily focused on the road. “Hey.” you got his attention.

“Oh, you’re awake.” he took his eyes off the road for half a second. “How’d you sleep.”

“I slept...good I guess- Quick question!” you semi-rambled. “That isn’t Nue we’re going past, right?

A smile crossed his face. “Maybe, I mean I did say it would be a long drive to Flash CIty.”

“You never said we were going to-...What?!” you must have looked like he just asked you if he could tickle your bootyhole.(Long story...)Your shock was quickly replaced by excitement. “Wait, did you say what I think you just said?”

“Depends on what you thought I said.” he answered, his smile got even wider. “You said Nue wasn’t doing it for you, so I thought it’d be cool if you saw what you were missing out on close up.”

You had to remember to breathe when he explained it. “You clever asshole.” you laughed. “If my dad finds out he’s gonna kill me.” you laughed out loud. “This is amazing!” 

“And it’s only just getting started.”

...

“Keep your eyes closed! We’re almost there!”

Alright alright!” you giggled. “What are you showing me anyways?”

“Something super important!” he replied. “I’ve never shown this place to anyone before. You should be honored! I said eyes closed, woman!”

“You’re covering my eyes, I can’t see anything” you giggled out loud. 

“Oh, right.” Hoseok took his hands off your eyes. “Ta-da!”

Before you was a huge room with mirrors on two of the walls all lined in fluorescent lights. The back wall had huge windows that gave a view of Flash City. The floors were a light gray color. It was just getting dark by the time you got there, so there were dozens of neon lights washing out the room, drowning out the unnatural illumination of the wide room. “

“Woah.” you gasped. “This is amazing!” you walked ahead of Hoseok to the middle of the room. 

“Isn’t it? This place is gonna be mine.” he followed you. “I’m almost done paying it off, and when I do, I’m gonna have my own dance studio. I’ll hold classes for the children, I’m record all my sick videos here and one day I’ll be on stage.

“You’re going to live out your dream.” you finished for him. “You’re gonna be great, I just know it.”

“I hope so. I’m giving up a lot for this.” he sighed. “Everything I know is on Nue...and I can’t fail or else I’m gonna have to do what my family says and marry some random girl I don’t know. I won’t fail...I can’t.” Hoseok looked determined as he walked up to the windows. “Dancing in my life and I want to make it worth something instead of just moving around oin my room all day.”

“You’re not going to fail.” you walked up and stood next to him. “As long as you believe in yourself, nothing can stop you. Not even your family. If you think you can do it, then you can.” you watched the lights fade and morph into an array of blues, greens, and pinks. Flash City was the right name for this place, because everything was just so captivating. It was quiet for a second, you both stood there just enjoying the lights and each other. You had just met Hoseok, but somehow you felt like you knew him forever. He seemed so transparent. It was nice.

“Hey, you wanna see the roof?” Hoseok asked, suddenly getting all hyper. Before you could respond, he had grabbed your hand and began to run.

“Woah! Hoseok slow down!” you laughed. 

“Come on!” he said excitedly, laughter echoing throughout the halls as he led you up a long flight of stairs. Hoseok basically kicked open the doors, nearly blinding you both with the even brighter fairy lights. 

“Woah!” You had to stop and breathe for a minute. You had gotten completely quiet. 

“Amazing isn’t it?” He never lowered his hand from yours as he lead you further into the open space. “It’s the perfect. Place to just come up here and think.”

“Yeah...” you nodded. The air was cold and breezy, way better unlike the sweltering heat of Nue. “It’s beautiful.”

“Y/N, do you believe in love at first sight?” Hoseok turned to look at you. It was a sudden question, a strange question. 

“I think so. I’ve just never taken the time to-” you looked at Hoseok who was staring right into your soul. “-see for myself.” you answered quietly. “Do you believe in love at first sight?”

“I’m afraid of what you’ll say if I tell you.” he was serious. “I don’t want to scare you off.” he grabbed your mother hand, stepping closer to you.

“You wouldn’t.” you replied just barely above a whisper. “Trust me.”

“Good.” He mirrored your tone of voice, shutting his eyes tightly before leaning down and giving you a prolonged kiss. Was this a weird feeling? Yes. If you hadn’t already said it a million times, you just met the man, but something about this felt...right.

“Okay, I need to breathe!” Hoseok pulled away dramatically, holding his hand over his chest. “Sorry, I got a little carried away.”

“No, it’s okay. “ you were just as breathless as he was.

...

Over the next several weeks, you and Hoseok had grown closer to one another. It was strange to say the least and people had began to talk. Seeing two people of the opposite sex interacting in the way you two did, it was unheard of. Every week you two would drive up to Flash City. You didn’t even explore the heart of Neo-Seoul. You would just go up to the dance studio Hoseok was buying and run amok on the roof. 

You had grown a little too close with Hoseok in such a short. It was almost scary. But you could trust him, enough to the point where you shared parts of yourself you never thought you’d share with anyone. Both physically and mentally. You never thought you would ever grow that close with anyone.

 Some nights you would travel to the beach and just sleep outside under the stars, some weekends Hoseok would take you up to Flash City to escape the slow, dreary environment of Nue Island. It was easy to say, you and Hoseok were getting to be way more than friends. 

When your parents found out...they weren’t exactly happy.

You walked through the door to see your mom, dad, and some random person at the dinner table. 

“Sit down Y/N.” you mother said simply. When you didn’t move, she sighed. 

“Y/N...it’s come to my attention that your behavior is getting a little bit out of hand.” you father stated. “I warned you about that.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” you raised the both of your eyebrows in confusion.

“Y/N, stop playing dumb. I know all about that Jung Hoseok boy you’ve been seeing behind my back!” your mother wagged her finger accusingly towards you. 

“Excuse me?” you said lowly. “Have you been going through my phone?!”

“I’m your mother, I bought you that phone-”

“Actually you didn’t!” you scoffed. “I bought it and you drove me to get it turned on.” you corrected. 

“Don’t you back-sass your mother young lady!” you father barked, causing you to jump. “You know the rules against dating who I don’t approve of in this household. You know what tradition this family goes by!”

“As if you don’t tell me every damn day!” you cut him off. 

“So you know how it affects me at work if everyone sees my daughter being some whore with another man!” Your father rebutted. You looked over at your mom who just stayed quiet. She couldn’t even look at you. “You’re pushing my hand, young lady.”

“And just what are you gonna do? Lock me in my room again?”

“Hm, you’d like that wouldn’t you.” you father wore a sick smirk on his face. “Y/N, meet Gerard Browning.”

The older man shuffled in his head, leaning back to look you up and down. The way he eyed you made you feel uneasy on the inside. Why was he even here? You didn’t know him from anywhere. He wasn’t some strange uncle you didn’t know about. This man was a complete stranger.

“Why exactly am I meeting this...’Gerard Browning’.” you hugged yourself tight to build some sense of security. 

“Mr. Browning is your new husband, we’ve arranged for the wedding already.” You mother said without looking at you. Hearing that made your heart almost drop to the floor.

“What?..N-No!” you shook your head. 

“Y/N, you will marry or else!” your father snapped. “Your whorish ways must be cleansed. It’s official, I’ve Decided.” he snarled, that sick grin returning to his face. 

“Are you kidding me!? He’s so old!” you said, repulsed. It was only then you realized just how much your father didn’t even like you. He was so willing to sell you out that it was almost sad. “You’re just gonna let him do that?!” you looked at your mother in pure disgust. 

“Your things have been packed, you’ll be moving in with him tonight.” you mother turned away from you. It was only then you noticed the plain black suitcases lined up by the door, all with your name written lazily on them. This Gerard rose from his seat, walking up to you. He stood next to you, his back straight. It took everything not to gag with how disgusted you felt at that moment.

“You bi-”

“We’ll leave you to get introduced to each other.” your father got up as well. “Come.” he barked to your mother. You could only glare as your mother walked past you, head staring down at the floor.

“I hate you.” you whimpered., knowing good and well she could hear you. “You’re dead to me.”

The room was empty and you were left with this Gerard person. You were only left to stare at the floor with hate slowly filling your heart. The minute your father was out of hearing distance, the man dug into his back pocket. He pulled out his wallet. “Listen kid, I don’t like this any more than you do.”

“Huh?” you said out-loud, looking up. “What are you talking about?”

“Shh! Not too loud.” he opened the wallet and pulled out a whole bunch of bills. “ You’re young enough to be my daughter. If that jackass thinks I’m about to violate some kid, he’s got another thing coming.” he shook his head. “He’s lucky I didn’t punch him in the nose for calling you a whore to your face.”

“I don’t understand.” you were at a loss for words. 

“You don’t have to.” he pulled out an entire wad of bills. You had no idea how much he was holding in his hands, you just knew it was a lot. “Just run.” he held out the money towards you.

“Wait.” You whispered. “Why are you helping me?” you tripped over your words.

“I got a daughter your age.” was his only explanation. “Take this and go somewhere that isn’t here.”

“Is this a trick?!’ you stepped back from him.

“Would I be giving you almost all the money in my wallet if I wanted to trick you?” Gerard scoffed. “Listen, I don’t know what’s going on in your personal life, I don’t want to know. All I know is you have 20 minutes to get a ride out of this place. Go through your stuff and get what you need out of it. Anything important so they do NOT have a reason to bring you back.” He nodded towards your three little suitcases by the door. “I’ll go stall your parents.”

You couldn’t process anything, only do what he said. You didn’t own much for everything to fit into three little suitcases. When you had finished up, Gerard came rushing into the room. In a haste, he grabbed your bag, shoved all the money from his wallet inside, and held the bag out towards you. “I’ve done my part, you have to leave right now.”

“Where am I gonna go?”

“Far, run away. Leave Nue Island and everything it stands for.” he said seriously. “Go with that boy you’ve been seeing, I don’t know...just go and don’t look back.”

“Thank you.” you whimpered, shakily grabbing your bag from him. 

“Don’t mention it. Now go.” he pointed towards the door. You pulled open the door and just bolted.

“Y/N GET BACK HERE!” Your father’s voice boomed, but you didn’t care...you just ran as fast as your feet could carry you. There was only one person you could turn to now.

...

You arrived to the parking lot outside of Mrs. Chu’s shop out of breath from all that damned running. Hoseok was standing there. As soon as he saw you, he ran up to you and embraced your body in his arms.

“Y/N! You sounded so upset over the phone, what’s wrong?”

“It’s my Father!” you bawled. “H-he’s trying to-” you could only sob in an attempt to get across what you were trying to say.

“Y/N, calm down! Breathe, babe.” Hoseok whispered into your ear. “Please tell me what’s wrong.”

“He’s trying to force me to marry early!” you managed to get out. “My mom told him about you and me or maybe he found out through someone else and now he’s absolutely livid!”

“What?! He can’t do that!” Hoseok looked absolutely taken aback. “What did he say?”

“He said that if I’m going to act like this, then I have to get sat down! It’s already been arranged and he called my a whore! Oh my gosh! Hoseok I don’t want to get married yet.” you managed to yell in between a mixture of sobs and sniffs. You pulled away to make crazy hand gestures. “And my mom just sat there and watched him sell me out.”

“ARGH FUCK!” Hoseok rammed his foot against the door of his car. “ Y/N are you serious?!”

“Hoseok I swear I wouldn’t lie about this..” you wiped your eyes.

“No it isn’t! He can’t force you. You can take this to a court, can’t you?!” Hoseok seemed to be trying to find the answers.

“....Not when he has friends in high places Hobi.” you looked down. You were defeated. “It’s over. Even if the first guy couldn’t do it. He’d keep going.” you repeated, sniffling. “Lucky for me, Gerard whoever literally sent me running out the door.”

"Then let's run away together." He grabbed your hand. "Escape this stupid island with me, Y/N. We can go to Flash City, Neo-Seoul, where ever you want!, like we planned."

"Hoseok, we can't!" You couldn't find it in yourself to yank your hand away, you didn't want to either. “There’s no way.” Maybe it was the close call, or the gift from heaven, but it was still scary not knowing what could have happened.

"And why not? Y/N. This is our change to flee. This entire community if so brainwashed it isn’t even funny." he put his hands on your shoulders. "There’s no rule stating that we can’t leave."

“But we’d be shunned. We basically wouldn’t be allowed back in once we leave.”

“Since when did you care about what the people on Nue think of you?” Hoseok glared down at you, not out of anger or dislike but out of sheer distaste in what you were saying. “Who are you and what have you done with the real Y/N?!”

In a mixture of tears and stress, you couldn't look at Hoseok's face. You were officially hopeless. "Hoseok, it's no use. My father's already decided and he’s still deciding."

"Your father can go screw himself! He's treating you like a lesser human and I've had enough. He doesn't own you, or your fate. He doesn't tell us what to do, who to do it with, or when to fucking do it. Weren't you the one who said you wanted to leave this place?"

"I know what I said!" you jerked out body out of his touch. You were instantly meet by the cold. "But maybe my mother's right, maybe this is just a fever dream. I feel like I don’t have a say anymore."

"You always have a say." Hoseok took another step towards you. "Y/N...do you love me?"

That word...that word is what got you into this mess in the first place. That word is what pissed off your father so much that he's put a time limit on your happiness...again. That word was...exactly what you wanted to hear for so long by someone else. You had only just recently met this man and already...

"Y/N...answer me." you could hear the wavering in Hoseok's voice and he went to pull you into his embrace. "Even if you don't...I just want to hear your voice once last time."

“What?” you were speechless. What did he mean ‘one last time’?

“This town isn’t good for me. For us. I have to leave, but I want you to come with me. I can’t force you, but I can’t stay here either.” his voice was just barely above a whisper. You could see the tears forming in his eyes. “Please Y/N.”

"Yes." you said lowly. The answer alone was enough to almost knock the air out of your lungs. "I l-love you Hoseok."You wouldn't say it out loud, but you were sure you heard a sniffle from him, like he was about to cry.

"Then come on. Let’s go live out our dreams together." you could see Hoseok digging through his pockets, trying to find something. He eventually pulled out a very familiar looking necklace. The moonstone. “Y/N, maybe the tradition wasn’t just bullshit. It lead us to each other. It lead me to you.”You touched your own moonstone hanging from your neck. You swore it was getting warm to the touch. “Maybe we’re meant to be together...just not here.”

“Y/N, I love you.”

You looked up in shock, eyes wide in confusion. “Huh? Come again?”

“What? You’ve waited to long to hear someone say it that you can’t even register when it’s being said to you?” He laughed through the few tears that had fallen down his face. “Your father doesn’t scare me. Even if he searched high and low for us, he wouldn’t dare face off with the people over the bridge. So come to Flash with me...be with me.”

Hoseok held out his hand, a hopeful look on his face. He was silently pleading with you. All these years you’ve dreamed of leaving Nue...

Fuck it. 

“...Let’s do it.” you nodded, lacing your fingers tightly in his. Hoseok tightened his hand around yours. He wasted no time in getting you and himself in the car, revving the engine and speeding off.

The entire way into Neo-Seoul, he wouldn’t let go of your hand. he wasn’t going to ever let go. 

Goodbye Nue Island...AND good riddance.

...

#btswriterscorner #jung hoseok #hoseok imagines #jung hoseok imagines #Kpop imagines #kpop scenarios #kpop au #bts #bts imagines #bts au #hoseok x reader #Yoongi imagines #namjoon imagines #seokjin imagines #taehyung imagine #jimin imagines #jungkook imagines #Jung hoseok x reader #amor fabula #nightowlfandom

[solange-lol]

not so typical love song - ch. 4/13

Chapter Title: Sink In

Words: 3,522

Art by @lizzybizzyo! <3

[ one | two | three | four | five | six | seven | eight (coming soon)]

read on ao3

—

Nico’s painting sets at tech crew the next day when something out of the ordinary happened.

“Do you think I should dye my hair grey for the show?” Drew asked them as she added another stroke of white. They’re painting a dark brick wall, and somehow he, Piper, Drew, and Octavian all got grouped together. Considering that Piper hated Drew and Nico’s pretty sure Octavian hates everyone in the show, the pairing was a little strange. He honestly wasn’t sure how he even got there.

“Sure,” Piper responded with the least amount of enthusiasm she could muster. 

Drew went on about how her hair is sort of her thing though and bleaching it could really ruin it as Nico zoned out. He felt a vibration in his pocket though, and quickly whipped out his phone to see a new email from Blue.

Nice one, Blue. Perfect timing. 

“I’m gonna go grab a soda, I’ll be right back,” he said, slipping his phone into his back pocket. 

To his surprise, though, Octavian put down his paintbrush as well. “I’ll come with you.”

Both Piper and Drew looked surprised, most likely mirroring Nico’s own expression.

“Uh, okay,” Nico said as he started to walk out, Octavian a few steps behind him.

It’s when they reach the hallway that Octavian finally caught up to him. Nico’s already pulled out his phone, planning a response and completely ignoring Octavian’s presence next to him. That’s when he started talking. 

“Here’s the thing,” Octavian started, not meeting Nico’s eyes. They kept walking as he talked. “I used the computer right after you in the library, and you’re Gmail was open. Just for anyone to see. And I read a couple of them, and if it interests you, my cousin is gay.”

Nico stopped in his tracks, already feeling his heart drop. He turned around to face Octavian. Even with the few inches the lanky blonde had on him, he saw the other boy shrink slightly under his glare.

“No, Octavian, that wouldn’t interest me,” he deadpanned.

“Okay. I mean, I’m not planning on showing anyone.” 

Nico felt his heart drop to his feet. All the blood left his face as he stared Octavian right in the eye. “Show anyone what?”

Octavian just blinked, shrugging his shoulders.

“Did you print my emails?” Nico practically growled, his voice quiet.

“Oh, no,” Octavian said, and Nico can see the power practically rising in him like he could smell the fear off of Nico. “No, I screenshotted them, actually.”

Nico breathed deeply. His brain was going haywire, but he had to do something about the situation. If not for him, then for Blue. “You screenshotted my emails?”

Octavian nodded.

“Okay, let me talk to you for a second here.” Nico nearly seethed as he grabbed Octavian’s wrist, dragging him through the hallway and into the library. He swung him around to one of the corners in the back where nobody could hear them within a ten foot radius. If anyone came near, Nico would be able to see them.

Octavian practically ripped his wrist out of Nico’s grip, now glaring daggers at him. “Good section,” he mumbled, reading the label above them. Blood & Gore. Nico’s not sure if he’s serious, nor did he want to know. There’s something else on his mind right now anyway. 

“Why the hell did you screenshot my emails?”

Octavian fidgeted, still making minimal eye contact. It was unusual for him to let his guard down like this, but one wrong move and Nico’s secret could be exploited to the entire school. So, he kept his mouth shut and waited for an answer. 

“Well, I know you and Piper McLean are good friends, right?”

Nico narrowed his eyes. “What does that have to do with anything.” 

“I need you to help me talk to her.”

“What, like put in a good word?” He nearly laughed until he noticed Octavian finally making eye contact with him, and he looked dead serious. “Why the hell would I do that?”

Octavian lifted an eyebrow, and suddenly it clicked in him. This, in exchange for not broadcasting his emails with Blue.

It honestly made no sense to Nico. He’d hardly ever seen Octavian care about someone besides himself. Though now he sort of understood why Octavian always looked angry whenever Piper and Jason interacted. Nico sort of assumed that was just how he usually was around regular human interaction. Octavian actually showing an emotion besides disgust was a common joke among his friends.

Except Nico’s not laughing now.

“You’re actually going to make me do this,” he stated. Octavian, out of all people, was blackmailing him.

“I’m not making you do anything. It’s just a mere suggestion.”

Nico scoffed. Mere suggestion my ass. “And what exactly are you ‘suggesting’?”

“I mean, I like this girl. I was just thinking you would want to help me here. Invite me to stuff when she’ll be there. I don’t know,” he shrugged, as if he was playing the victim here. Nico wanted to throttle him.

“And what if I don’t?” Nico seethed. “You’ll put the emails of Facebook? Instagram? On the freaking Tumblr?” He could feel his heart beating hard in his chest at the idea of his emails being leaked on any of those platforms. The entire school would know within a day, not even. Eight hours maybe.

They’re both quiet for a moment until Octavian spoke. “I just think we’re in a position to help each other out.”

Nico felt himself swallow thickly. He could feel the emotion welling up in his chest, tears starting to prick at the back of his eyes. He pushed them all away. He won’t cry in front of Octavian. Not right now.

“So, just think about it.” He went to pat Nico on the shoulder as he left, but Nico swatted away his hand. Octavian turned to glare for a second before rounding the bookshelf, and then he’s gone. 

Nico’s felts like he’s going to collapse when suddenly Octavian swung back around. “By the way, who is Blue?”

Nico glared at him. “Nobody, just go away,” he barked. If Octavian thought Nico’s selling out Blue, he’s crazy. (Even if Nico didn’t even know himself.)

Blue was someone. He might even be someone Nico knew. But he didn’t, and he’s not even sure if he wanted to know anymore. 

When Nico walked back to the auditorium, Piper immediately rushed over.

“Are you okay? Octavian had this smug look on his face when he came back in.”

“I’m fine,” he told her. “He’s just being his regular old asshole self. Wanted to give me some acting tips.”

Piper rolled her eyes. “Of course. You’re definitely a better actor than he is,” she informed him. “Come find me if he ever threatens you, because I won’t hesitate to fight him.”

Nico managed a laugh, but his stomach twisted inside. Oh, you have no idea.

—

Nico drowned out the dinner conversation that night, his own inner thoughts swirling in his head. 

He still didn’t really understand why Octavian was into Piper. To be fair, most of the other obnoxious straight boys at his school were, including Jason. What Octavian was actually asking for shouldn’t be as hard as it was. Realistically, all he has to do was let Octavian tag along to any sort of social event that Nico’s friends might be dragging him to.

Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done. 

“You hate the peppers, don’t you?” Hazel asked him from across the table, and Nico realized that the entire time he’s been glaring down at his plate. “I know you don’t really like bitter things, but I thought I might at least try—”

“No,” Nico said. He spoke in a genuine tone, but didn’t even bother trying to force a smile. Not right now. “The peppers are good.”

Hazel frowned, furrowing her brow in concern. She clearly wanted to ask him what was going on; Nico could see her biting back the question. Before she could say anything, Nico remembered that he never read his email from Blue from before.

“I’m just going to get some air,” he said, excusing himself from the table. The concern in Hazel’s face only deepened, but right now, Nico needed to distract himself from the chaos going on in his mind. 

And sure, Blue was the source of that chaos, but he usually was able to clear Nico’s head. Or, at least distract him.

Nico stepped out onto their porch, making sure he wasn’t in his family’s view as he opened up the notification on his phone. 

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Date: Oct 29 at 5:09 PM

Subject: Re: Halloween Costumes

I need to get something off my chest. The other day you asked me what I was wearing for Halloween and I said I wasn’t dressing up. Truth is, I didn’t want to tell you what I was wearing because I didn’t want you to know who I am. 

Right now, these emails feel like these totally safe place. I’m just not ready for my whole world to change. I hope you understand, because I would really like for these emails to continue.

-Blue

Nico felt his heart sink, not because Blue didn’t want to reveal himself, but because if he knew what had happened…well, he wasn’t so sure Blue would still consider this a safe space. 

(Silently, he cursed himself for still hearing the email in Will’s voice. He couldn’t get his hopes up; it’s clear Blue didn’t want Nico knowing who he is.)

Blue could never find out that Octavian knew. It would crush him. Part of Nico knew he could end it all here.

Did he want it all to end here, though?

No. Nico knew in his heart that he didn’t care if they never found out each other’s identities, because this was his safe space too. It was him and Blue against the world.

Nico glanced back at his house, through one of the windows. His father, Persephone, and Hazel had found their way back to a conversation. He could nearly hear Hazel’s laugh as he watched her throw her head back at whatever Persephone had said. Even a small smile found its way onto his father’s face. 

Turning his attention back to the message in front of him, he tapped out a short reply. 

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Date: Oct 29 at 6:24 PM

Subject: Re: Halloween Costumes

Yes, Blue. I understand.

—

Nico wouldn’t lie; he’s been avoiding Octavian. He saw him in the hallway or the auditorium, always trying to make eye contact, but talking to him was really the last thing Nico wanted to do right now.

The fact that Nico’s being blackmailed hadn’t really sunk in yet. The fact that Blue didn’t know either just made everything worse. It’s not like he could talk to anyone about it, either. This was something he had to hand himself (which was the whole concept of blackmail, he supposed.) He hated that he already knew that he’s going to help Octavian, but it’s not like Nico had much of a choice.

Unfortunately for him, despite his best efforts, Octavian found a way to approach him in the cafeteria. Or, more specifically, the lunch line.

“Got room for one more at your table?”

Nico looked down at his tray. “Not really.” 

It’s not a lie. They were already squeezing two people onto the benches and two extra chairs at the end of what's supposed to be an eight person table. 

There’s a good dynamic to the table: Piper, Annabeth, Percy, and Reyna always on one end, who always found a good conversation topic for the day that Nico could usually easily slide into. Jason, Travis, and Connor usually ended up talking about soccer and the team. And then there's Will, Lou Ellen, Cecil, and Calypso, who had a lot of energy. It’s a good balance for everyone.

 It’s sort of obvious everytime someone attempted to get up that there’s no room for another person. Plus, you couldn’t really switch around lunch table in October.

It doesn’t stop the awkward silence that came between them, though.

“We’ve got 12 people already.”

“Didn’t realize the seats were assigned,” Octavian remarked, narrowing his eyes. When Nico didn’t reply, he continued.“I just figured we were on the same page about the Piper thing, but…” 

There weren’t any real rules laid out about the whole blackmail situation, but it’s clear what Octavian’s idea was: he asked for whatever he wants, and because he had power over Nico, Nico had to do it. 

Which was just great.

It’s just so freaking awesome.

Nico dropped his voice. “Look, I want to help you,” he whispered, even when his head is screaming ‘No! You don’t want to help him!’ It’s not like he really had a choice here. 

“Whatever you say, di Angelo.”

Nico nearly groaned. “Listen, I’ll come over today and we’ll talk. And I’ll talk to Piper. You just gotta let me handle it.”

Octavian just shrugged. “Whatever you say.”

Nico could feel him giving him the stink eye all the way back to his seat. It took all his strength not to start complaining about what an asshole Octavian was because now he had to put up a good act for Piper.

“What was that all about?” Piper asked him as Nico squeezed into his spot. “You look pissed. I’ll keep my promise about beating him up if he threatens you.”

(Nico swore he heard Will mutter “please do,” after she said that, but he didn’t mention it.)

“Octavian? It’s nothing. He’s chill,” Nico shrugged, shoving his fork into his pasta. Piper looked at him like he grew a second head, while Will gave him an icy look, which hurt a little bit considering Nico was 80% sure he’s Blue. (Not that it mattered anymore, not after last night.)

Piper looked like she wanted to say more, but Nico smoothly switched the conversation to the previous night’s episode of Grey’s Anatomy, which distracted her.

Will’s gaze didn’t leave him for all of lunch. 

—

Octavian’s house had a weird vibe to it, much like the rest of Octavian. His room was just downright creepy; mostly neat except for the stuffed animals that had seemingly been stabbed or had the stuffing ripped out were scattered about. Nico chose not to ask, but he was really hoping Octavian had a dog.

Honestly, Nico wasn’t quite sure how he even got here. He probably should have thought a bit more before essentially inviting himself over to Octavian’s house. 

He sighed, deciding to cut straight to the chase. Have to get this over with somehow. “If you want to get Piper to like you, we have to make her see you as more of a, uh...”

“Of a sexy version of me,” Octavian finished for him. Nico nodded, although that was not where he was going with it and internally he still wanted to throw up. 

Unfortunately for him, Octavian wasn’t finished. In fact, it just got worse.

“You like dudes,” he started, pulling off his jacket and throwing it towards Nico, making his skin crawl. “Tell me, what part about me do you find the hottest?”

What the hell was Nico doing with his life? “No. No, we are not doing this,” he said, turning his back to Octavian.

“Come on. If you said my shoulders, I would dress to accentuate.” 

“I’m not answering that,” he replied, before turning back around. “Actually, here’s your first tip: stop acting like such a jerk around everyone. Maybe if you showed that you actually cared about anyone besides yourself, Piper would notice you.”

Octavian narrowed his eyes. “No need to be rude. Remember why we’re here?”

“That’s exactly what I’m talking about. If you talk shit about everything Piper likes, including her friends,” Nico gestured to himself. “Then she’s never going to like you.”

“I’m not here to have you change me, di Angelo,” Octavian said. “I asked you to help me hang out with her. Just invite me to one of your guy’s Waffle House trips or something.”

Nico wanted to throw up his arm and scream ‘It’s not like she’s going to like you how you are!’ 

Instead, he sighed, immediately regretting the idea that sparked his brain. It’s not like he had much of a choice though. “Do you want to come to the Halloween party at the Stolls house with us tomorrow?” he asked, placing a hand on his hip. “Me, Reyna, Jason, and Piper are having a small pre-party at Jason’s house beforehand. Just show up at nine and we’ll give you a ride over.” 

Technically the pre-party was set for eight, but there was no way he was actually letting Octavian crash that tradition. There was no way either of his three friends would be cool with him being there. 

Just because he was ruining his life didn’t mean he had to ruin his friendships too.

“Yes, thank you, di Angelo. That’s all you needed to do. So simple.” Octavian shook his head. ”Here, let me give you my number and you can text me the address.”

Every fiber of his being was screaming at him not to do it, but that reminder that he had no power in this situation was glued to the back of his brain. Any wrong move, and Octavian could ruin everything he’s worked for. Hesitantly, Nico handed over his phone.

Octavian typed his number in and added himself as a new contact before handing back over Nico’s phone. “You can go now.”

Nico fought the urge to roll his eyes as he grabbed his backpack. He walked out without a goodbye. As he walked out the front door, he swiftly changed Octavian’s contact name to ‘Monkey Asshole.’

The moment Nico sat down in his car, he got a new email notification from Blue. 

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Date: Oct 30 at 4:43 PM

Subject: Childhood Costumes

I know I said that I didn’t want to tell you what I was dressing up for Halloween this year, but that doesn’t stop me from asking about previous years. Of course, I don’t think anything could beat the ‘holy cow’ costume you suggested earlier, but something tells me you have a knack for creative Halloween costumes

-Blue

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Date: Oct 30 at 4:43 PM

Subject: Re: Childhood Costumes

Unfortunately, Blue, I think my one costume gave you the wrong impression, because I was not one to dress up until I was about 14 years old.

Growing up I was all the stereotypical things that your mom would dress you as, like a vampire or a clown or yes, even a pumpkin. (That sweater better not have been a lie.)

Then, after she died, my dad wasn’t really one to partake in Halloween. My older sister did her best, but I was only ever given hand-me-downs of her Halloween costumes. One year she even tried to dress me up as a flapper girl, which worked until we got downstairs and my dad immediately vetoed it. He’s cool with most things, but I guess seeing his 10 year old son in a sequined dress was too much.

I didn’t dress up again until freshman grade, aka the holy cow year, thanks to some new friends I made. Then the next year we did Winnie the Pooh (I was Eeyore, of course.)

So there’s my tragic Halloween backstory. Hope it didn’t dampen your spirit too much. Plus, I think my costume is alright this year. It was a combined effort from my sister and one of my friends; I’m sure you would appreciate it.

Now that you've heard my sob story, it’s time for me to hear yours.

-Angel

He felt the buzz in his pocket before he was even able to make it home. It was comforting to know at least that Blue was maybe waiting for his reply. 

Nico pulled up in his driveway and parked before pulling out his phone.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Date: Oct 30 at 5:58 PM

Subject: Re: Childhood Costumes

That is a tragic story. And I’m sure you would be less than thrilled to hear my history of costumes, considering I basically go as the same three things and just rotate every year.

Although, that flapper costume story is adorable, I wish it could have been documented somewhere. (The fact that you were okay with it just makes me wonder if it was one of those Signs.)

Anyway, I’m sure your costume is great this year, and I’m glad you found it in yourself to start dressing up again. Who known what the world would be like without the history of you in a ‘holy cow’ costume. 

I hope you have a good Halloween tomorrow. 

-Blue

It was weird that no matter how much of a shitty day Nico was having, Blue could always make it better. 

#solangelo #nico di angelo #will solace #heros of olympus #pjo #forgot to finish posting these oops gottta put them up b4 i put up ch6 #pjo hoo big bang 2019 #nstls #liz writes.com

[scribblescrabblebabble]

RoyEd Week 2k19 Day 2!

Title: Seven(?) Days

Rating: T+

Relationships: Roy Mustang/ Edward Elric

Chapter: Day 2- Colorless (Photographers/ wartime Au)

Cross- Posted on AO3 and Fanfic.net links- Fanfic.net   AO3

Best quality reading will be through the links, not on Tumblr itself because I’m too lazy to do italics and shit right now. For @royedweek2019 ‘s RoyEd Week!

......................................................................................................................

Ed sighed in frustration, "Okay, which of you can tell me a single technical aspect of this photo?" He clicked to another picture on the Smartboard, seemingly the hundredth that period. His students' last assignment had gone so poorly he felt that they all needed a class-long review before he could trust them with another.

'11th grade my ass.' He internally seethed. At least his punishment was working- they all looked as miserable as he felt.

His question was met with silence, and Ed wanted to be allowed to punch school property, "Tell me or you all fail the project."

Half of the class readily shouted, "Rule of thirds!" Whilst others guessed very valiantly.

"Good. This one?" He clicked and was met with several "umm"s, but no real answers. Even Chelsea Jones, his star pupil, looked glassy-eyed with boredom! And her project had actually been okay! Apparently, none of these kids were afraid of an F in Photography.

He decided to be generous with this one, as it was a trickier piece, "I see a good use of texture and natural framing with the branches and the model, yeah?"

The class agreed unenthusiastically.

"Listen, if you guys didn't want this, you should have given half of a damn about your work! I know most of you just want the art credit, but you actually have to pass the class to receive the credit, you know.

A few weak, "Yes Sir"s, and Ed forged ahead.

He clicked to the next piece, and almost didn't hear the varied shouts of "diagonal lines" and "shallow depth of field", as the photo in question caught Ed off guard.

It was one of Roy's photos.

An older one, back when he was journaling some strange commune in the Eastern region of Amestris.

Ed must have been silent for longer than he'd have liked, as Ella Swindell in the back of the classroom tentatively asked, "Mr. Elric?"

He snapped his attention back to his class and coughed, "Yes, good answers. Another good element here is the choice of black and white. In this scenario, it really adds some good drama to the piece."

Black and White photography was a favorite of Roy's. Not only because of its homage to printed papers but because of his ever-present flair for the dramatic. Roy left for a month on that job, and right after his return he'd proposed to Ed. At the time it had been their longest work-related time apart. How long had it been since he'd seen Roy? Five months? Or had half a year really already passed? Would he see-

Ed stopped his train of thought right there, violently jabbing his trackpad to move the PowerPoint along. To Ed's dismay, it was another of his husband's works taken of their late cat, kindly named Pissface. This particular shot had been on their cat's supposed birthday, and she wore a little birthday hat and a confused expression.

Roy had cried when Pissface died. She was old, but it had still seemed too sudden the morning they found her. Ed had cried watching Roy cry, and it was all just a big mess of tears. Al had even teared up audibly over the phone when Ed broke the sad news. It was an all-over tear-filled day. If Roy died, Ed didn't know what…

'Nope, stop it!' Ed willed his mind away from death, 'He hasn't called because there is a fucking war falling out around him, idiot brain!'

A few students "aww"ed at Pissface's cuteness, and others scanned the photo quickly for an answer to their teacher's impending question. Ed decided to throw them a curveball, "Improve this photo for me. Tell me where it falls short."

One kid, Ed thought Jason Matthews, but he wasn't paying much attention, suggested, "Maybe make the depth of field shallower so that the cat was more in focus?"

Ed hummed in thought and let a few more students ramble out some stunted ideas. He clicked to the final slide as the classroom door behind him opened. Assuming this to be Mordecai Fitzgerald, who had been out of class finishing a test, as per the teacher's email, Ed didn't bother with a glance.

He droned, "take a seat and don't be a nuisance." And to all, he said, "Well, give me some ways to improve this one!"

They continued, embarrassed silence would have sent Ed up a wall, had a noticeably deep, very Roy voice not interjected, "You could make it black and white. It would take away from the busy background and add a nice bit of drama to the subject.

He whipped his head around to meet the merrily amused gaze of his husband. As per Ed's command upon entering the classroom, Roy had taken a seat in a further back desk. Several students looked between him and their shocked teacher confusedly.

Ed smiled brightly. "What did I say about being a nuisance, you ass!" His reprimand meant little, as he had already stood and hastened to his husband's side. He only just remembered not to pounce him in front of the dozen seventeen-year-olds in the room, so he settled on a tight embrace and a regrettably chaste kiss. The class murmured, and a few let out joking "oooooo"s.

Ed, still with Roy's arm around his middle, turned to his class to snap, "Shut it!" After a short admonishing look from his husband, Ed sighed, "Class, this is Roy, a photojournalist. He's been out of the country for a while doing work journaling the war effort up North."

Eric Headley, the son-of-a-bitch, called out, "D'ya kiss a lot of photojournalists, Mr. Elric?"

"Only the one I'm married to, Eric. Now, everyone, go fix your pathetic excuses of projects until the bell rings. And if I see a phone, we all get to stay in class for fifteen extra minutes after the bell, got it?"

The students, now far more interested in their teacher and his husband than their work, reluctantly slouched to their respective computers to work the class away, keeping a curious eye on the two men now talking quietly together behind Mr. Elric's desk, wide smiles on both of their faces. If Ed discreetly rubbed away some water building in his eye, nobody commented.

Back at home, after their kisses had turned far less chaste and after Roy had barely had the time to set his luggage down properly before Ed practically attacked him, they lay in their bed together, Ed's head on Roy's chest and Roy's laptop on his stomach, clicking through many photographs detailing his journeys with the war effort.

"NatGeo's gonna go fucking ballistic over that one." Ed commented on the current picture on display of a soldier playing some kind of ball game with some civilian children.

Roy laughed, the sound a deep rumble to Ed, pressed against the other man as he was, "Just you wait till I get to the shoot of these kind, elderly weaving-women. It's got dusty lighting and everything."

Ed hummed, "Perfect. I'll have to show 'em to my class the next time I need to re-teach them shit."

"I'm honored my work'll be put to such good use. Did they take well to my others?"

Ed leaned his head back to catch Roy's amused gaze, "I knew you added those! Last time I share a PowerPoint with you."

The photojournalist grinned, "I wanted to give them something other than Ansel Adams to critique."

"Hey, I had more than just Ansel on there! I wouldn't want to make it too easy for them."

Roy smiled and lifted his hand from the trackpad of the laptop to stroke Ed's loose hair, "Of course not."

Before Ed could pick up Roy's job of clicking through the photos, the hand left his hair and closed the laptop. The blonde whines as Roy turned away to set the computer over the side of the bed, "I wanted to see the weaving women!"

Roy turned back, and Ed latched back onto his chest to hear the rumble of his light laughter her again, "We have all the time in the world tomorrow to look at the rest. Let's get some sleep, love."

Ed grumbled about the pet name but settled into Roy's side all the same, not about to let a half year's worth of waiting go to waste.

They slept, and if Ed gripped his husband a little tighter in his sleep, well, Roy definitely wasn't complaining.

~End~

#RoyEd #safe RoyEd #RoyEdweek2019 #fanfic

[fruitynancywheeler]

Crash Into Me: Chapter Fourteen

Title: Crash Into Me

Rating: M

Pairing: Beca/Chloe

Words: 1,509

Summary: When the president began getting threats regarding his only daughter, he hires Beca Mitchell, ex soldier and close friend, to protect her. Beca never expected the job to be such a difficult task. And she really didn’t expect to fall in love with the president’s daughter.

Read on FF.net

Read on AO3

24 hours earlier

I waited in my car a few houses away from where I now knew Justin Hastings resides. I first had to make a trip to a gun and ammunition store, and for the first time ever I was grateful for the lax gun laws that America had. I purchased a few handguns, all assorted in different sizes to hide in different places on myself in case I was in a predicament where I couldn’t utilize the heavier weapons I bought.

Loaded in the duffel bag that I had in my car was also two automatic assault rifles because I didn’t know how many people I’d be up against. I also had a sniper rifle with a couple attachable scopes on them, as well as some wire just in case. I made a mental note that if I made it out of this alive I’d talk to Jason about enforcing better gun laws, because nobody should be able to walk out of a store with as much weaponry as I had, but it was going to be necessary for what I needed to do.

I had been parked for over an hour waiting for him to arrive. I didn’t have much of a plan when it came to my confrontation with him. I didn’t know if he would submit and reveal the location of the others involved in this fucked up scheme against Chloe and I, or if he would put up a fight.

As I was contemplating my plan, a beat-up Chevrolet pickup truck pulled into the driveway, and I saw Justin emerge from the vehicle. His brown hair a little longer than it had been when I first met him, and his beard had gotten bushier as well. He walked into the house, and I waited a few moments before following him.

I stood in front of the door of his house, gathering the courage to do what needed to be done. My hands were sweaty from nerves, and I wiped them against my pants in hopes that would instill some kind of determination in me to knock on the door. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath before lifting my hand to rap my knuckles against the door.

It didn’t take long for him to open the door, and when he locked eyes with me I could see the recognition hit him. His brow furrowed and his stance became more defensive.

“What do you want?” He growled, beads of sweat already forming on his forehead.

“I just came to have a chat,” I smirked, the confidence in me growing as the memories of our last encounter flooded my mind. He was going to be a challenge just like he was last time, but the situation hadn’t been as severe. Now, he was a threat to the people I have come to love, as well as myself, and I wasn’t about to let him get away with what he has done.

“I’m not interested in anything you have to say,” he muttered as he began to shut the door.

I lodged my boot in the door frame before he could close it. I pushed my weight against the door to give me the advantage of slipping inside the house. His eyes flashed in anger at my intrusion, and I knew that if I provoked him anymore he would snap.

“You’re trespassing. I’ll call the cops on you,” he threatened.

“Go ahead,” I goaded, knowing he was bluffing. “I’m sure they would just love to hear about your involvement in the terrorist attacks against the president and his family.”

His mouth opened as if he was about to speak, but then he closed it, opting to stay silent. I couldn’t help the sly grin that spread on my face. I had him exactly where I needed him. It was just a matter of if he would be willing to divulge the information I needed.

“That’s what I thought,” I chuckled humorlessly. “Now, you can either make this easy on both of us and tell me what I need to know, or you can make this more difficult.”

“What do you want?” He snarled.

“I want to know who you are working for and where they are located.”

“That’s not going to happen. You have no proof of my involvement.”

“You sure about that?” I challenged. I pulled my phone out of my pocket and opened up the video of him planting the tracking device on my car. I turned the phone to him and watched as the realization hit him that he had no other options. “I mean, that is you, correct? Sure looks like it.”

Before I could process anything, he had me pinned to the door of his house, his forearm pushing against my throat to stop the oxygen flow to my lungs. He was strong, that was for sure, but I’ve faced more challenging opponents before.

“I’ll kill you,” he grumbled, his face mere inches from mine. “I’ll kill you and nobody will ever even know you were here.”

I brought my knee up and hit him as hard as I could in the groin, causing him to stumble back away from me. I didn’t want to have to resort to violence, however I had a feeling it would come down to this. I brought my foot up again and kicked him square in the chest to knock him onto his back. As he was on the ground I planted my foot against his chest and applied as much pressure as I could without causing injury to keep him there. I pulled one of the handguns out of its holster on my hip and aimed it at his head.

“I didn’t come here to fight you,” I huffed, a little out of breath from the lack of oxygen. “But I will end you if it comes down to it.”

“She’ll kill me if she finds out I told you,” he cried out, tears starting to flow, and for a minute I felt kind of bad for him. But I wasn’t going to let my sympathy be a weakness. Who was this she he was referring to? I needed to know, and I wasn’t going to leave until I had the information I needed.

“If you help me figure this shit out, I can protect you,” I explained, hoping he’d be more inclined to tell me if I promised his safety.

“Oh yeah, ‘cause you’ve been so good at protecting Chloe.”

Anger coursed through me at the mention of Chloe. He had some fucking audacity to bring her into this. I pushed down harder against his chest, not caring if it hurt. He wheezed out a cough from the pressure against his ribcage.

“Don’t you dare bring her into this,” I seethed, pushing down harder as my anger was getting the best of me.

“Struck a nerve, I see,” he chuckled bitterly.

“You have two options here, Hastings,” I muttered, easing the pressure I was putting on his chest. “Either you tell me where these people are located and we can put you into witness protection, or I will kill you right here, right now.”

The words tasted bitter in my mouth. Killing wasn’t something I liked doing, it haunted me every day. But time was running out, and so were my options. Sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to do in order to protect those around us. The longer this went on, the longer Chloe would be in danger. She was my top priority, and if that meant losing a piece of myself then so be it.

“There are abandoned buildings in Richmond, Virginia. They’ve taken residence in one of them. That’s where all their planning happens,” he explained. I was surprised he was willing to divulge these details to me. I expected him to put up more of a fight, but maybe he realized that this was the end of the line for him. I wasn’t here to play games. I took my foot off his chest, allowing him to sit up to speak now that he was willing.

“How many people do they have?”

“About fifty, give or take. They have four snipers on the roof, one at each corner of the building. Two people guard the front entrance, and two people guard the back entrance. They have about ten others on each floor. It’s a relatively small building, only four or five floors.”

“Who leads them?” I asked, engraving this new knowledge into my memory.

“I don’t know her real name, I just know what people call her,” he whispered. His eyes looked fearful as he thought about this woman who has been the cause of so much death and destruction.

“What do they call her?”

“The call her… Kommissar.”

#bechloe #pitch perfect #beca mitchell #Chloe beale #beca x chloe #fuck bitches write fiction

[natasha-cole]

Hey Bartender Chapter 10: A Sin for a Sin

Pairing: Bartender!Reader x Rock God!Rob

Chapter Summary: Rob feels the need to apologize in his own way, but the Reader has something else in mind.

Word Count: 3402

Warnings: drinking as usual, swears, rude Robbie, angst, and badly written smut

Notes: It’s midnight and I’m tired but I really wanted to finish this chapter. Sorry if it’s rushed and messy.

Catch Up: Chapter 1  Chapter 2  Chapter 3  Chapter 4   Chapter 5   Chapter 6  Chapter 7  Chapter 8  Chapter 9

You spent the next week or so still pissed off and upset over the way Rob had treated you. You weren’t sure what you had done exactly for him to behave that way, but you had hoped that you pouring a beer on him and kicking him out of the bar that night would have been enough to let him know that you were done.

He didn’t show his face back at the bar all week, and you had surprisingly had to ignore a couple of phone calls from him. You didn’t know why he was bothering you still, certainly he couldn’t think that he could call you for a hook up after what he had said. You ignored him, no longer interested in him if he thought it was okay to treat you that way.

You were at work on a Wednesday. Wednesdays were always slow, but there were the usuals. Tonight, you found yourself holding back on your usual flirting and friendliness, obviously still feeling bad about what Rob had said. It was just you and Matt and a handful of customers, and the night was going by slowly and quietly.

You were in the middle of chatting with a couple at the bar when you noticed Jason walk in. you smiled to yourself, hoping he hadn’t come to complain about the way you had acted with his friend. You had nothing against him or any of the other guys, they were still some of your favorite customers and were always so polite to you.

“Jason,” you said as you walked toward him, “wasn’t sure if I’d see you back here.”

“It’s my favorite bar, why would I stay away?”

“Well, I assumed after that whole fiasco last week, you’d all want to avoid this place.”

You handed him his beer of choice without him even having to ask. You knew him, just as you knew the rest of the guys.

“That’s actually why I’m here.”

“Of course it is,” you mumbled, no longer smiling at his friendly face, “make it quick and just remember that I have security here.”

“Look, Rob got what he deserved. He was out of line. I’ve never heard him talk like that to anyone, ever.”

“I guess I just bring out the best in people,” you said sarcastically.

“He’s been trying to call you.”

“He called twice, and I ignored his calls.”

“I think he’s trying to apologize.”

“Whatever, he has nothing to apologize for.”

“Yeah, he does. He knows he was being a dick. He’s not that guy. I’m not sure why he acted that way with you… bringing that girl here, talking to you like that.”

“It’s because he thinks I’m a slut,” you reminded him, “and, I mean, with good reason. That’s what I get for thinking that I could fuck around with someone I don’t even know.”

“He doesn’t think of you like that.”

“Well he sure has an interesting way of showing how much he respects me.”

“You know,” Jason began, “I think maybe he likes you too much.”

“Wow, that makes me feel so much better,” you said as you rolled your eyes. “What a guy. He likes me so much that he comes into my work and calls me a whore in front of everyone. So sweet.”

Jason sat quietly, uncomfortable over what you had to say. You really hoped that Rob hadn’t sent him in here to apologize for him, that would have been slightly pathetic.

“He wants to know if he’s kicked out of here for good. He hasn’t come by because you told him to leave. He wants to talk to you, but doesn’t want to show up if he’s not allowed.”

“I’d rather him not be here, but it’s not my place to kick anyone out.”

“So, he can come by, even when you’re working.”

“You should probably tell your friend not to,” you warned, “unless he enjoys having beer dumped on him.”

“I’ll relay the message,” Jason smiled. He quickly chugged his beer, placing some cash on the bar before walking out. You stood there, slightly confused and hoping that Rob might think better of showing his face here again while you were working.

Rob saved his appearance for the following night. Seeing him walk into the bar had you seething immediately. You knew he hadn’t been officially kicked out, you couldn’t make that happen just because you had slept with him and he had hurt your feelings. Again, Briana wasn’t here to take over, even though you really didn’t want to deal with him. He sat at the bar, alone this time. You glanced toward Matt who was already making a move toward you. You shooed him away, knowing that Rob wouldn’t cause a scene again.

You very slowly made your way to him, heart racing now upon seeing him again.

“What do you want?” You asked.

“Uh, the usual,” he relied softly.

You grabbed a beer for him, opening it and placing it down in front of him. You thought you saw him flinch, probably afraid that you might pour it on him. Without another word, you turned from him, intent on putting your focus elsewhere.

“Can we talk,” you heard him ask.

You turned back to face him again, “There’s nothing to talk about.”

“Yeah, there is. Because I was a massive jerk to you.”

“Oh, you’re finally realizing this?”

“I knew I was being a jerk the minute I said what I said. Are you okay?”

“What do you care? You think I’m a whore.”

“I never said that,” he argued.

“Not directly.”

“I wouldn’t have said all of that if you weren’t acting like such a bitch,” he spat, very quickly biting his tongue as the words came out.

“Oh, now I’m a bitch?” You asked angrily.

“No, but you were acting like one. I was good to you, and you walked out on me. Again. I don’t like feeling like I’m being used.”

“Isn’t that what we were doing?” You replied, “Weren’t we just using each other?”

“I don’t like to think of it like that.”

“Then what? Why did you have to do that? Why did you bring someone in here, knowing damn well that you had been with me that same morning? Why did you feel it was necessary to talk to me like that?”

Rob shifted in his seat, avoiding your stare. “Can we just talk about this somewhere else? After you get off work?”

“You want privacy?”

“Yeah, I don’t want to do this here.”

“Maybe I wanted you to not call me a whore in front of the people I work with and my customers.” You stared harder at him, wishing you could dump another beer over his head. If anything, even that simple thing had made you feel better before.

“Please, I know I don’t deserve it, but will you at least hear me out.”

You considered what he had to say. He had mentioned how you had pissed him off by walking out on him again, something that you tended to do every time. Maybe you were a glutton for punishment, but the idea of not being with him again didn’t sit well with you. He was good to you, really good, despite his one moment of rudenesss last week. Maybe, you could hear him out, listen to his apology. Maybe you could reestablish what this relationship was so that he understood a little better. Maybe you could go back to having the best sex of your life without the complications. Any self-respecting woman probably wouldn’t give the guy another chance after what he had pulled, but you knew he was addicting. You couldn’t give him up that easily, you really didn’t want to.

‘Fine. You can wait until my shift is over. Then maybe I’ll listen.”

He offered you a small smile as you turned from him again, going back to ignoring him to focus on your other customers.

At the end of the night, you let Rob walk out with you; much to the dismay of Matt. You had to remind him that you didn’t need him to protect you all the time, and, although you may be stupid, you were an adult who made your own decisions.

You couldn’t go back to your current place, since you were still holed up at Bri’s house. So you drove Rob home and followed him inside so that he could say what he had to say.

Instead of saying anything, he gripped onto your waist as soon as you were inside, moving in to kiss you the same way he would have before. You wanted him to kiss you, you wanted so much more from him and you sort of hated yourself for it. You managed to turn away from him and he settled with kissing you on the cheek.

“I’m sorry,” he mumbled, still gripping onto your waist as he pulled you closer to him.

“You were an asshole.”

“I know I was. I'm sorry. I just got so angry at the way you kept disappearing.”

“Saying you're sorry doesn't make me feel any better,” you argued.

“I don't know what else I can do.”

You looked at him, now seeing regret plastered all over his face. He looked honestly upset with himself and the fact that he couldn’t think of a way to fix what he had done. You realized you could get a decent apology from him though, at the same time, getting what you really needed from him.

“Show me how sorry you are,” you said, surprising yourself with how demanding you sounded.

Rob caught on quickly, pulling you in even closer to him. He leaned in toward you, pausing suddenly.

“Can I kiss you?” He asked.

“Yes.”

He crashed his lips to yours, kissing you heatedly. He began to work his hand up your shirt where he immediately cupped your breast. You moaned into his mouth and he in turn pressed himself harder against you. You felt his cock against you, already hard, and you knew what you had to do.

“Just so we're clear, you don't get to fuck me,” you explained, still feeling very dominant. “You're in trouble. You will get me off, but you don't get to cum.”

He grinned at you, nodding his understanding. You felt the adrenaline rush through you. You loved being in control, and you felt that for the first time, you really were in control.

Rob pushed you back against the wall, kissing you again, tongue darting in your mouth as he teased your own tongue. You couldn’t help but moan again. No matter how much you wanted to be dominant, the man made it almost impossible sometimes. You felt his hands trace up the length of your thighs, lifting your skirt as he made his way to exactly where you needed him. He rubbed his fingers against your core for a moment before he promptly tugged at your panties, guiding them down your legs so that you could step out of them, his mouth never leaving yours. He teased you, now touching your clit before sliding two fingers inside of you. You broke the kiss, panting against his mouth as you relished in the sensation of having him touch you again.

You assumed that this would be his way of apologizing. And you were okay with that, no matter how much you wanted to feel him inside you again.

He kissed your mouth, working his way down your neck to your collarbone as he placed kisses along your skin. Your breathing picked up as he worked his fingers inside you, anxious now for your release. Then, he did something unexpected. He trailed his mouth down your chest, focusing on your skin there for a moment before dropping to his knees. Your breath caught as he looked up at you from his place on the floor, those blue eyes searching your own for approval. His rough hands ran along your thighs as he watched you and waited. You reached down, running a hand through his dark curls as you nodded for him to continue.

He took his time, now kissing along the insides of your thighs, his soft lips offset by the coarseness of his beard as it brushed against your sensitive skin. You moaned again, resting your head back against the wall as you closed your eyes, already lost in the moment. He carefully tugged on your leg, directing it up and over his shoulder as he lifted your skirt, holding it out of the way. That first contact of his mouth against you caused you to gasp. He slowly licked along your clit and you felt your knees buckle as he did so. You kept your eyes closed, mouth agape as you let out short gasps and moans, now feeling him begin to move his tongue against you harder.

When you felt that first sensation of him sucking at your clit, you cried out, looking down to see him, amazed at what he was doing to you right now. You were met by his own stare, those eyes looking up at you, his pupils blown as he watched you writhe against him. When he met your gaze, he worked faster, licking and sucking. You involuntarily reached down to card your hand through his hair again, this time gripping onto him as you tugged ever so gently, causing him to groan, which in turn caused a vibration through your core that had you gasping. You could hear him now, moaning as he continued to work, pleased with your taste.

You gripped harder onto his hair, pulling his face closer to you when you realized that the coil was building up within you quickly now. You let out another moan, “so good for me baby…” you managed to say, complimenting his skills that you didn’t know he had.

He moaned in response, tongue moving faster as he stopped to suck on your clit again.

“Oh, yes,” you responded, still watching him. You couldn’t get over how fucking hot it was to have him like this, those amazing eyes just staring up at you as you took control, looking toward you for approval. You began to move your hips against his mouth. “Jesus, Rob… do you know how fucking amazing you feel right now?”

He didn’t respond, he just continued to watch you. Your mouth fell open as another loud moan escaped your lips, eyes fluttering shut as the buildup continued. He must have read your cues, because before you could even realize it, he now had his fingers inside you as he continued to lick and suck. You felt your legs grow weak, your head spinning. He gripped onto your leg that was draped over his shoulder, trying to hold you still as much as he could as you were now basically riding his face.

“Please…” you gasped, letting him know that you needed to cum. He obliged, moving his fingers deeper into you, finding that sweet spot that caused your body to shake each time he touched it. “Oh fuck,” you moaned. He was still hitting that spot, still licking at and sucking your clit, still watching you. You couldn’t hold back any longer. You grasped onto him, your hands probably tugging at his hair a bit too hard, but you were so close and suddenly unable to control yourself.

He worked faster now upon realizing how close you were. You could feel his fingers deep within you, his mouth and tongue moving expertly against your core. You groaned, suddenly feeling the warmth at your core build up to it’s peak before finally breaking. You cried out as you came hard. You felt your head hit the wall as you threw it back, your legs nearly giving out as your body trembled. He kept his grip on your leg tight, holding you up as he worked you through your intense orgasm.

You started to come down now, breathing ragged, heartbeat slowing, and the trembling in your body winding down. You looked back down at him, surprised that he was still looking up at you, watching. He let his tongue lick up your slit one more time, causing you to gasp now that you were so sensitive. He pulled back, grinning at you, his mouth and beard glistening with your slick. You had never thought the man could look more attractive than he already was, but, right now, you were questioning that. You gave him a loopy smile as he guided your leg from his shoulder, putting it down so that he could stand. He pressed you against the wall, leaning in to kiss you. You let him, despite the fact that his beard was wet and you could taste yourself on his tongue. He kissed you for a long time, it was heated and needy, and you never wanted it to stop.

“I’m sorry,” he said softly when the kiss ended. “I didn’t mean what I said. I was drunk and jealous.”

“Jealous?” You asked in a breathy voice. You weren’t quite recovered, and you looked at him in a daze, unsure of what he was getting at.

“Yes, I was jealous that you were paying more attention to my friends.”

“You were the one who brought a date.”

“I only brought her to make you jealous. You ran out on me again and I was pissed.”

“We’re not supposed to get jealous,” you replied, “that’s not what this is.”

“Did it make you jealous?” He asked, “Seeing me with her.”

“A little,” you replied honestly. God knows you didn’t want to feel jealousy over what he chose to do when he wasn’t with you. You knew that this couldn’t work if either of you developed those types of feelings.

“See, we both get jealous. I just do stupid things when I’m jealous.”

“We really need to stop that,” you reminded him, “we’re just sleeping with each other, we’re not supposed to feel that way.”

“I can’t help it, bartender. I like you.”

“Mmmm,” you hummed softly, “I like you too. But you’re not about to be my boyfriend.”

He grinned, pleased with himself for some reason. “Are you sure you don’t want to return the favor,” he asked, changing the subject as he moved against you, his cock still hard against your leg. You smiled slyly at him.

“I would love to,” you teased, “but this is your punishment for basically calling me a whore, oh, and a bitch.”

Rob groaned, dropping his head into the crook of your neck where he began to kiss and lick. He knew he wasn’t getting the favor returned, at least not tonight. You only hoped that he understood why, and learned to not behave that way again. You pushed him away from you after a moment, finding your panties and putting them back on. You straightened out your clothes, trying to look a little more presentable.

“Will I see you again?” He asked hopefully with a grin.

“You keep making me feel like that every time you fuck up, you’ll definitely see me again.”

He watched you as you headed for the door, ready to walk away from him.

“Really?” He asked. He seemed so sure that you might change your mind, regardless of how much you said no. “You really won’t at least blow me?”

You chuckled softly, hand gripping the doorknob as you looked at him, “I’m serious Rob. You’re on your own tonight. How does it feel to be my little bitch?”

He smiled at you as you turned to walk out, leaving him there, still hard, and seemingly impressed with how you handled all of that.

You on the other hand, wondered if you were being stupid with all of this. You should have cut him loose the moment he disrespected you, but you never stopped thinking about him. The memory of seeing him at the bar with someone else had gotten to you, even if you wouldn’t fully admit how much it bothered you.

You realized just then that you were in trouble. You were addicted to him, unwilling to let him go even if he felt it necessary to piss you off. You had called it from the beginning. He was trouble and you were finding it impossible to stay away.

Tag List: @lamthetwickster @riversong-sam @nekodresden85 @waywardswain  @capital-eyyyy-ohhh  @narisjournal-blog  @jelly-beans-and-gstrings @grace-for-sale @thecandylovingarchangelgabriel @laffytaffyhumor @feelmyroarrrr @sorenmarie87  @smoothdogsgirl @kocswain @culturebay @itsfunnierin-enochian @typicalweirdbookworm @angelsandhuntersgalore @riversong-sam @emoryhemsworth @hunterpuff @camelotandastronauts

#hey bartender #rob benedict x reader #rock god! rob #bartender!reader #louden swain au #au #rob benedict rpf #chapter 10

[thatonelucky]

The Unlikely Two

From the moment Jughead Jones stepped into Riverdale High, his chosen target was Betty Cooper. Teasing mercilessly and throwing insults, Betty doesn't know how much more she can take. From enemies to something entirely new.

Read on AO3

               Jughead Jones was a colossal asshole, Betty had decided. His whole time knowing Betty he had tormented her, purposely provoked her and attempted to ruin every good thing in her life. It was a pain in her ass, she hated him. With a fiery passion in her heart; she hoped that he would get what he deserved one day.

               Funnily enough, Jughead was the quarter back for the Riverdale Bulldogs. Meaning that every girl wanted him and every guy wanted to be him. The only person that could come above Jughead was his best friend, Archie Andrews, but he was strictly off limits. Caught in some love spell Betty’s best friend, Veronica Lodge threw onto him.

               They weren’t an unlikely pairing. Veronica was the co-head cheerleader of the Riverdale Vixens and Archie was the co-captain for the Riverdale Bulldogs. They were the most expected couple in the entire school. Everyone could see the chemistry between them from the moment that Archie and Jughead had transferred from New York City.

               The two boys had been best friends their entire life, ever since Fred had adopted Jughead off of his abusive parents. Though, no one ever knew that story. As far as anyone was concerned, Jughead just took Mary’s maiden name and the two were brothers. No one ever asked for the logic, which was helpful seeing as it was a completely blatant lie.

               It didn’t take long for Jughead to sweep in and choose Betty as his victim. Every day giving sly comments about how prude she looked or how her tight pony tail must be why she’s so uptight all of the time. It was silly things but it’s the fact that it was happening every single day. He sat with her at lunch to be with Archie, who was too busy canoodling with Veronica. Leaving the two sworn enemies to bicker and ignore each other for an hour at least every school day.

               It was hell for Betty, but not for Jughead. He found a sick comfort in teasing Betty Cooper. At first, he thought it was just because he didn’t like her but he did find himself caring about her from time to time. If anyone else gave Betty grief, Jughead was the first one to jump to her defence. The mixed signals drove Betty crazy, deciding that maybe he just wanted to be the only reason she was miserable.

               Nonetheless, he gave it a good go at being nice when people had given Betty a few choice words. He rubbed her back and told her that it was going to be okay. He never knew what to do when she cried, he’d of hated it if he ever pushed her to those limits. The 2 or 3 times he had drove her over the edge were the worst of times.

               It wasn’t necessarily Jughead Jones being the problem. He was merely the catalyst of Betty’s emotions. She was almost thankful at times that he would cause an outburst because she got to release her hefty built up frustration. It was some kind of twisted favour.

               Betty didn’t have it easy. Her father let his alcoholism get the best of him when her sister, Polly Cooper, had finally left town. She was pregnant and on the run from her mother who was trying to force her to abort the baby. She refused, claiming it was all she had left to live for. That’s where she wasn’t wrong; the Coopers had nothing to live for. Their reputation had been dragged through the mud and back. Redemption was useless.

               Jughead hadn’t meant to say it that day. But the words came spilling out and before he knew it Betty had punched him square in the nose and ran away crying. He had no idea what he had done wrong until Veronica decided to tell him a small fraction of what Betty has to go through in her day to day life.

               The words that Jughead had said stuck with Betty for a long time. She never forgot to venom in his voice as he deliberately said the words he knew would hurt her the most. She’d never expected that he’d hated her that much. To put someone through so much pain every single day just for a kick? Betty had enough of his baggage.

               “Hey, Coops. You’re looking very uptight, as usual.” Jughead caught up with Betty who, having already seen him, was walking at a faster pace than usual down the corridor. He slung his left arm around her shoulder loosely, attempting to take out her pony tail. She’d had enough. Grabbing him by his letterman jacket, Betty tossed him off of her. He fell into a nearby locker.

               “Fuck off, Jones.” Betty seethed, kicking his fallen backpack out of the way and walking away. Jughead wanted to be mad, but a part of him found it hot. Betty standing up for herself instead of letting him bully her was way better than actually bullying her. There were a few students stood by their lockers snickering but Jughead didn’t care. He was way too invested in how this would play out, a small smirk etching across his face.

               “Hey, B, you okay?” Veronica pulled Betty into a quick hug, taking a note of her tired features. She hadn’t looked like she slept well last night. Sadly, Veronica wasn’t surprised. Constant worrying about Polly often kept Betty up at night, not hearing from your sister for 5 months was tough. It’s still a sore subject.

               “I’m good. Just keep Jones away from me.” Betty grumbled, kicking her feet slightly. She couldn’t be around him right now. After everything he’d said yesterday she couldn’t be bothered to deal with him. Especially since things at home were getting worse and worse. Betty’s dad was starting to drunkenly hit her whilst her mother watched from afar. Alice never did have a backbone.

               It wasn’t brutal beatings, just slaps and tripping over. She had a few bruises but she’d cover them up for school so that no one could see, attempting to keep up the persona of everything being okay when everyone could see that she was far from okay. Being okay wasn’t a part of Betty’s day to day life. Veronica knew it all.

               “Did it happen again?” Veronica caressed Betty’s cheek, tears welling in her eyes as she takes a good look at her best friend. Betty was in pieces, she didn’t look like the same girl she was last year, or even a few months ago. She was losing weight much too fast, she was losing the pink in her skin. It was like watching someone die and still walk around.

               Jughead didn’t take this as a hint to stop. He carried on mercilessly making her life hell because he found it funny. He didn’t think that Betty was in danger or that she could ever hate herself. Jughead thinks that Betty has it all and that’s why he gives her shit.

               He’d found out about Polly as soon as it happened. Word travels fast when a junior gets pregnant and her boyfriend completely leaves her to fend for herself. Jason Blossom was what Brits would call ‘a bit of a dick’. Betty hated him with a burning passion, so that means that Jughead hated him too.

               “I’m fine, V.” Betty lightly pulled Veronica’s hand off of her face, shrugging off any remnants of the past few minutes happening and faking a smile for the audience. That being the students in the corridors, ears wide open ready to absorb any drop of information that they can. It’s how they survive.

               High school kids feed off of others misery. It’s like a shark getting their first taste of blood. They won’t stop until they destroy every single thing. Rumours are the most popular of that sort; many got spread after Polly had left. Polly Cooper is pregnant with Jason’s baby? Well who’d of expected that, she’s a slut? They all are, the Coopers are weak.

               “Psst! Cooper!” Jughead irritatingly whispered from the row behind Betty in Biology. Of course, she pretended not to hear him. She’s sticking to her word of having nothing to do with him anymore. And she hopes that he will get that hint. “Cooper!” Jughead tried again a little louder this time. Betty relentlessly ignored him, avoiding every single possibility of an encounter.

               “What!” Betty yelled whilst stood in front of her locker that was being blocked by none other than Jughead Jones. He clearly wasn’t happy with Betty’s fruitless attempts at avoiding him, so he took it one step further. Refusing to move from her locker until she talked to him, Betty finally budged.

               “I only wanted to say that I’m sorry.” Betty almost choked on the air she was breathing in. Not in any of the time Betty had known Jughead, had he ever apologised for anything he’d done. That’s exactly why, standing right there, Betty legitimately choked in shock as Jughead just rolled his eyes.

               That was the first time that Jughead had surprised Betty. After that day, he seemed to back off a lot. Whenever Betty walked in the corridor, he remained away from her and respected her wishes. He wanted to renew himself with her, show her that he’s not just an asshole.

               Jughead found it hard to talk to people; he usually comes off as arrogant and cocky. He doesn’t intend for that to happen, but it does get him exactly what he wants whenever he wants it. He has 100 girls fawning over his every move and even if he doesn’t want them, he still has them. He was unsure on why Betty didn’t have any guys genuinely interested in her. Jughead thought she was beautiful.

               “You look pretty today, Cooper.” Jughead appeared next to Betty, complimenting her with a genuine smile. At first, she wanted to laugh but she knew that his punchline was going to come soon enough. One didn’t come; instead he nudged her arm slightly and stalked off in the opposite direction still smiling. That day, Betty smiled too.

               Jughead’s change in behaviour hadn’t gone unnoticed by Archie. His red headed brother mercilessly teased him about his sudden feeling change for Betty who seemed to be warming up to him too. Jughead could only chuckle in response, not denying his quick change.

               Veronica was doing the same that night, painting Betty’s nails an electric blue and bringing up Jughead’s behaviour. At first, Betty didn’t have a response.  She truly had no idea what to think about the situation. Jughead had always hated her and now he’s calling her pretty and completely stopping with the rude remarks. She couldn’t lie, she was happy about it.

               “Hey, Betts! Wait up!” Betty was walking to school when she heard Jughead call behind her. He looked slightly ruffled but he caught up to her in a flash. Perks of being the quarter back she guessed. His genuine smile was plastered on his face again as he saw Betty beam at his offer, “Can I walk with you?”

               This became a regular occurrence for the two; walking to school early in the morning just so they could take their time walking. During the first few mornings, Archie had no idea why Jughead was leaving an hour earlier than usual and refusing a ride. Following him one day, he saw Jughead waiting outside the Cooper household and walking to Riverdale High with his arm around Betty Cooper. Only to quickly drop it if someone walked past or if they made it through the school gates.

               Even Veronica knew that something weird was going on. At lunch they weren’t doing their usual bickering. They were sat in silence, texting rapidly on their phones with goofy smirks on their faces. Archie caught Jughead staring at Betty like she was his whole world on more than one occasion.

               “Are you dating Jughead?” Veronica blurted out one day to Betty who was laid on Veronica’s couch, cuddled up in a bundle of blankets. Her eyes were glued to the screen for a moment, watching Leonardo DiCaprio intensely for a moment.

               “Yes.” Betty spoke slowly; weary of how Veronica would react. Anyone would’ve known that Betty and Jughead were the most unlikely pairing in the world. They used to hate each other with a burning passion. But something in Jughead changed that ended up changing something in Betty too. No one knew that what Jughead saw one night could’ve changed their whole perspective on Betty Cooper.

               After screwing up the past few paragraphs, Jughead set his laptop down and decided to take a walk. He found himself walking past the Cooper house, ready to see nothing at all. But what he saw was frightening. Hal Cooper, striking Betty down and screaming at her with his greasy face reddening with every word. Betty stood up, poked her rather in the chest roughly and seethed some words back at him. To which he just walked away.

               Jughead watching from afar was difficult. He’d wanted to go in and comfort her as he always did when someone hurt Betty. But seeing her home situation changed his perspective on Betty Cooper. She wasn’t uptight, she wasn’t prude, and she wasn’t a slut. Betty Cooper was a beautiful warrior.

               And with that, Jughead made a promise to himself that he wouldn’t save Betty Cooper but he would help her to find the strength to fight her own way out. Not everyone needs a man to save their life; Betty had proved her strength already.  But Jughead’s task was to let her know just how beautiful and just how strong she is.

                Betty Cooper is her own hero.

Remember that I accept prompts and any feedback you’d like to give me! Also if you want to discuss the latest episodes or anything else I’ll be happy to chat! Currently vexed about the last episode!         

#bughead #bughead fanfic #bughead fanfiction #betty and jughead #jughead jones #betty cooper #riverdale #jetty #riverdale fanfic #riverdale fanfiction #thatonelucky

[valiantvigilant]

Compromised (Dick Grayson x Reader)

Request: Dick and the Reader have to go undercover as a married couple. While undercover someone decides to flirt and get a bit too handsy with the Reader causing Dick to get jealous and possessive Thank you very much for the request! I hope you enjoy it! (To be honeest, this imagine ended a different way than I originally planned (the note at the bottom explains), but I hope you like it anyway!) _____

You had just finished slipping on your shoes and finishing up your makeup when you looked at yourself in your mirror. You were dressed in a sleek black dress that hugged your body just right and black, knee high, healed boots to match. You took a deep breath, remembering Bruce’s words as he briefed you and Dick on tonight’s mission. “There is a large party going on in downtown Gotham tonight. Rumor has it, Black Mask will be there discussing the drug trade with a possible new partner. You two must go undercover as a married couple and try to find out who this new partner is.” Bruce said. You nodded, eyes locked on the computer. You tried to focus on your objective, but you found yourself getting excited, butterflies filing your stomach. You were going on an undercover with Dick Grayson. The love of your life, and best friend all wrapped up into one. As you walked down the stairs to th main foyer, Dick looked at you and felt his heart leap into his throat. You…you were so beautiful…he was head-over-heals for you! You were in a six year long relationship with Dick so far. The fact that you two were going on an undercover married couple made his stomach do flips. The topic of marriage had been floating around in his mind a lot lately, and now this mission was here. It was almost like Fate was condemning him to pop the question…his emotions were all churned up at the thought of this. “You are so fucking beautiful…” he murmured, looking at you up and down as the two of you linked arms. You smiled and let out a hearty laugh that sent shivers down his spine. God, he was whipped. “You don’t look too bad yourself,” you replied with a wink, walking out the front door, the car waiting for the two of you. He felt heat rise to his cheeks and he turned away so you couldn’t see. (You did in fact, see his face turn red.) You let out a quiet laugh as you two entered the car and drove off to your destination. - Downtown Gotham is certainly an….interesting place to be. You and the rest of the Batfamily often found yourselves there while on patrol. Now you guys were going in deep into it’s roots. You and Dick had gotten dropped off several streets away and walked there, arms linked. You both had comms in your ears and Alfred had eyes on the two of you from the Batcave in case something went wrong. The two of you walked into the party and were greeted with many important looking people. “Senators, Democratic and Republican reps for the Assembly, owners of big business, man this place is crawling with dollar signs hanging over their heads.“ You comment. “Although it doesn’t surprise me that one of these guys could be dealing with Black Mask.“ “Stay sharp, (Y/N). I’m going to scout around the place,” Dick murmured, squeezing your hand. You nod in reply. “See you soon dearest husband.” You say with a wink, then part ways with your lover. Dick felt heat rise to his cheeks again and crawl up his neck. He could almost hear your snicker as the two of you went your own paths. You always knew how to make him blush, which was surprising to many people. He was Dick Grayson. Nightwing. Level-headed, calm, and collected. However, you were the one thing that could make that all come crumbling down with just a glance. You made him weak at the knees, your vibrant aura was just so captivating… “You have quite the wife Master Dick,” Alfred said over the comm, keeping your ear piece out of the conversation. “She isn’t my wife!” He whispered. Not yet anyway… You had made your way across the room, shades still perched on your face. You were offered a glass of champagne by a waitress, which you politely declined and got a glass of water instead. You leaned against the wall of the place, sipping your water as you looked around for anything suspicious. You couldn’t see Dick from where you were standing, the crowd of guests blocking your view. You were about to ask him where he was through the comm when you felt someone stand next to you. “What’s a lovely looking lady such as yourself doing all alone here,” a deep voice asked. You turned and saw a man with loose brown hair and honey brown eyes to compliment it. He had a thick Spanish accent when he spoke to you and the going in his eyes indicated he was up to no good. “I’m just taking a step back from the party, I’m not a teenager anymore so partying can take it’s toll nowadays,” you respond casually. “A beautiful woman such as yourself shouldn’t be spending such a lovely evening by yourself,” he said, winking at you. Before you can even reply to that, he is already talking again. “Danilo Carrera. Most call me Danny.” “Pleasure to meet you.” “Oh believe me, the pleasure is all mine.” His eyes wandered up your figure and you restrained yourself from rolling your eyes. “What brings you here tonight?” “I’m just a girl, going out to a party to have a nice time. What about you?” You really did not want to make conversation with this ‘Danny’ character. However, he might lead you to something, so it’s worth a shot, you supposed. “I’m here doing business for a friend of mine,” he stated. You raised your eyebrows, and suddenly, Danny Carrera became interesting. “Oh? What kind of business?” You ask, voice becoming low and soft as you leaned a bit closer to him. “My friend and I own a business together. I’m here doing some business for our company. He had some other things to tend to, so I am here on behalf of the two of us.“ “What’s the name of your business? I have a few friends who are business men, but I’ve never heard of you, Danny.” “We aren’t an American business, which is why we aren’t that well known here, though that is why I am here today, to…negotiate with a powerful man here in the United States.” “Where is your business from?” You leaned closer to him, your (e/c) peaking out from the top of your sunglasses for just a moment before hiding again. You saw him lick his lips nervously. “Santa Prisca,” he replied. Your blood turned to ice but you didn’t let the shock show. This guy can’t be working with who I think…I’ve never heard of Bane knowing anyone names Danilo Carrera… You thought anxiously. Your mind was racing a mile a minute as you tried to figure out just who he was and how Bane knew him. But, everywhere you searched in your mind, came up a dead end. Dick always said you had a knack for the trouble to be drawn to you. You guessed he was right. “Is something the matter, hermosa?” Danny asks, snapping you out of your thoughts. “Oh! I’m fine, I was just thinking of how…scary of a place Santa Prisca is, with all the fighting and dangerous things that go on there.” You reply, regaining your cool. “Ah, yes. It is a very dangerous place, but we survive.” He replied. This guy was good at telling you things in such a roundabout way, though with your heavily known background knowledge, you could piece everything together. “Señorita, I have to ask. May I know your name? We have spoken to each other for a while and I realized I have yet to know it.” “My mother always told me not to give personal information away to a stranger,” you replied smoothly, a small smirk on your face. He busted out laughing, a sly smile going on his own face. He leaned closer to you and put a hand on your hip and leaned close to your ear. “It’ll be our little secret,” his whispered. You could feel his hot breath on you neck, and it took every ounce of self control not to push him away from you. “What’s in it for me?” You murmur back. “I don’t give secrets away for nothing.” You internally grimaced as his hand wandered down to your ass. “That’s not what I had in mind Danny.” “Shhh. It’ll be fine,” he said lowly. “How’s about we ditch this place and find a place to spend the night, eh?” Both his hands were now traveling up and down your body. You fought the urge to slap him into next week. How dare he touch you like this! However…you didn’t. You knew Bruce needed information on this. If you and Dick didn’t get information on this situation then he would have to send Jason in to get Intel. And you knew that Bruce really didn’t want to get Jay mixed up in this whole Black Mask shit again. This case was also connected to crime rates skyrocketing in Bludhaven, which you know is putting heavy amounts of stress on your beloved boyfriend.Grin an bear it (Y/N), you thought. Do it for the mission. From across the room Dick Grayson was about to go to tell you the information he had gathered when he realized the comms were jammed. Damn, someone is interfering with the signal He thought. Then, he saw this entire ordeal unfold.Or at least from when he saw some guy put his hands on his girl. He most certainly did not like that. (Y/N) (L/N) was his girl and he was seething at the sight of this man putting his grubby hands all over her. He knew, that you were tolerating it because this guy probably had some information you wanted to get out of him. However, the fact that he was touching you, put Dick in a state that was similar to when a bull sees red. Without even thinking, he stormed over, put his arm around your waist, and pulled you away from Danny. “Hey, what the fuck man?” Danny growled. “What the fuck is right! What are you doing with your hands on my wife?!” Dick roared. Danny narrowed his eyes at your lover and then looked at you, then back at him. “Wife?!” “Yes, asshole. This is my wife! And I look over to see you have your fucking hands all over her!!” Dick was mad. You wanted to slap some sense into him, for he compromised the mission. Everyone in the room was staring at the three of you now. “Calm down,” you say gently. “Calm down?! How am I supposed to be calm when this creep is feeling you up?” Dick snapped. “I was only talking with him to know what kind of business man he is.” You turn to Danny. “You see, my husband and I have our fingers dipped in the pie that is business as well. Once you told me you were a business man yourself, I wanted to know more about what you deal with to see if you were a possible candidate for a partnership. I apologize if I had mislead you into thinking it was flirting.” You quickly cover for yourself and your ‘husband.’ “If you wanted to talk business, you should have just said so hermosa.” Danny said, sending a wink your way. He clearly didn’t get the message you and Dick were sending. You know when something starts to go to shit, and all you think is ’fuck.’ Well, that’s what you were thinking once you saw Dick go and sock Danny right in the jaw for that last comment. And that’s what started the chaos. Dick and Danny were beating the shit out of each other on the floor of the place. This caused the drunk people there to fight as well, and soon enough, people were either fighting or running away. Trying to break up the fights just resulted in more fighting. You stayed out of them for the most part. Sipping your water to try and keep your cool. But, all of that changed when you saw Danny pull out a knife and give Dick a few good slashes before you stepped in. You slammed your glass down on a nearby table and tapped Danny on the shoulder. He turned around and you punched him straight in the nose, sending him stumbling backwards. He growled, cursing profanities at you in Spanish as he charged at you. You swiftly dodged and and disarmed him with ease. Knocking his ass to the ground, you send him a nasty glare. “Stay down, unless you want to see a few unwanted secrets I have that’ll make you go home crying to your Mama.“ You snarled, slamming the knife into the ground right next to his head. Danny’s eyes were wide and full of fear. You walk over Dick and grabbed his arm, pulling him along as the two of you got lost in the mess that this party turned into. You two swifly made your way to the car you guys had parked a few streets away. Getting Dick into the passenger seat, you then sat in the driver’s and instantly started heading towards the Batcave. The ride was mostly silent as you drove and as Dick bled all over the seats. His eyes were closed in pain and you took a deep breath, focusing on the road. You had pulled into the Batcave and the two of you got out of the car, Alfred instantly went yo help Dick and you made your way over to the Batcomputer were Bruce was sitting. From the looks of things, you assumed he just got back from patrol with Tim, Damian and Jason. The boys, you assumed, were upstairs. Bruce turned around and saw Dick getting patched up by Alfred and you with a semi-sour look on your face. Quickly, you explained everything that had happened tonight, giving Bruce all the information you got on Danilo Carrera. “We’ll discuss our next move in this matter later tonight,“ Bruce stated. You nodded and headed upstairs to shower. You brushed passed the boys on your way to your room, the three of them calling after you. You ignored them and closed and locked your door. You couldn’t believe Dick had compromised the mission like that! He never does anything like that…you supposed what Danny was doing to you really got to him. Sighing, you stripped of your dress and went to take a shower. - 45 minutes later, you came out of your bathroom dressed in sweatpants and a tank top, your hair damp. Your face was rid of the makeup and you honestly felt a lot more relaxed than when you first came home. You were about to relax on your bed with a book when you hear whispers outside your door. “Do you think she is still in the shower?” You heard Jason’s voice whisper. “Of course not Todd, the shower turned off several minutes ago.” “Shut up! She can probably hear us!” You frowned and walked over, opening the door to your room, only to have Tim, Damian and Jason tumble in. You narrowed your eyes and crossed your arms over your chest. “Ow! Todd, get off me! You are a lot heavier than you look!” Damian growled, struggling under Jason. “Shut up Demon Spawn! I’m trying to get up!” “Can’t breathe!” Tim croaked. “It’s not our fault you’re practically skin and bones, Drake!” “Nice of you to drop in boys,” you say sarcastically. They scrambled to their feet and began pointing blame on each other. “Alright!” You shout, ceasing their arguing. Tim hung his head in shame, Jason crossed his arms much like you and Damian just looked at you. “Why are you three eavesdropping on me?” “We wanted to know if you were okay…we heard about what happened on the mission.” Tim confessed. “Yes we heard about Grayson’s idiocy that ruined chances of getting further information,” Damian chimed in. “I’m alright guys, I appreciate you checking in on me.” You replied. “What happened to Dick out there?” Tim asked. You ushered the boys inside and the four of you sat on the floor. “I don’t know what was wrong with him. His emotions were all over the place and one thing led to another and it was a disaster,” you breathe out. “Do you know what caused him to act so…wildly?” Jason asked. “No, but he seemed to be deep in thought after Bruce explained the mission. I have no idea what was on his mind though.” There was silence before Alfred appeared at the door. “Miss (Y/N), and Master Jason. Master Bruce wishes to see you two in the Batcave,” the kind butler informed. You and Jason look at each other questioningly then back at Alfred, who just shrugged. The two of you got up, the two other brothers following close behind. - You and Jason entered the Batcave, Tim and Damian sneakily following. Bruce had a stern look on his face, and Dick was sitting in a chair near him, bandaged up. “(Y/N), with the information you gave me, I was able to dig up some dirt on Danilo Carrera and his relations to Bane. Apparently him and Black Mask were supposed to have a meeting to discuss shipments of the materials needed to make Kobra Venom. Mask is apparently now largely invested in the business as Bane tries to find new ways to make it stronger.“ “What are we going to do about it?” Dick piped up. Bruce turned at looked at him. “You aren’t doing anything about it. You’re injured. You have a fractured rib and deep lacerations.” Bruce said. He turned back to you and Jason. “You two will be handling the rest of this situation.” “What?!” Dick yelled, standing up. “I thought you said you didn’t want to get Jason involved with Black Mask again?“ “That was before I realized that your emotions become sporadic when out in the field with (Y/N). Until you can get them under control, I’m having Jason continue this mission with her.” Dick’s face contorted in an emotion that was mixed with anger and hurt. The words of Bruce and the reaction from Dick surprised everyone in the room. Usually, it was Jason who was stubborn and angry when Bruce made a decision like this, but in this case, it was Dick. Jason, next to you, was probably the most surprised in the room. There was a thick silence in the room before Dick scrunched his eyes up in frustration before making a beeline for the stairs. Once he was gone, you spoke up. “Did he say what was troubling him?” You ask. “He didn’t say a thing,” Bruce replied. You sigh and Jason puts a comforting hand on your shoulder. “I’m sure he’ll come around (N/N), he has been stressed out about Bludhaven.” “You, for once, have a point Todd,” Damian piped up. “But, Grayson has never acted like this much of a child. That’s usually your area of expertise.” Jason glared at his youngest brother. “Can it, Demon Spawn.” “Alright, there’s been enough arguing for tonight,” you snap. The two instantly stop bickering at your words and you sigh, turning back to Bruce. “When do we have our next mission regarding this case?” “You have a flight to an island near Santa Prisca tomorrow. From there, you’ll have to figure out your own means of transportation. This is strictly recon.Do not engage.” You and Jason nod, though you both know recon missions always end up in you guys engaging. - After discussing the events of tomorrow’s mission, you made your way back upstairs. Heading to Dick’s room, you knock softly on the door. “Miss (Y/N), Master Dick headed home to your shared apartment in Bludhaven. Would you like me to drive you?” Alfred stated. You crossed your arms over your chest, annoyed with your boyfriend’s bullheaded actions. “No thank you, Al. I think I’ll stay here tonight,” you reply. _____ there WILL be a part 2 to this! Thank you Anon, for the request! I hope you liked part 1 of this! I know that Dick was kind of out of character, but that’s what stress does to you. I read that asking someone to marry You/ getting married are big stressers in life. So, I decided that on top of that, the stress from the crime rate increasing in Bludhaven because of Bane and the drugs, and the jealousy that Danny caused, Dick would get quite stressed. Plus, we all know Bruce would sideline someone if they were acting irrationally in the field. I don’t know if any of you liked how this went. To be completely honest, I didn’t plan for this imagine to take the turn it did, but I had an idea that involved a part 2 and decided to go with it. (Originally, I was gonna have Dick propose to (Y/N) once getting back to the Batcave and she patched him up, but I had this idea instead.) I also have an idea for a Dick Grayson imagine series thing, that I will begin posting after Part 2 to this is posted, I am very excited about it! Well I hope you enjoyed! And thank you again for the request!

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