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youvebeenlivingfictional · 3 years

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The Question

The Pool | The Difference | The Notes | The Fear | The Thought | Masterlist Pairing: Benny ‘Borracho’ Magalon x Reader Rating: Explicit - 18+ only Warnings: None? Besides cursing. Notes: Fluffy! Fluffy! Most of these going forward are going to be fluffy. Most. Summary: How the hell does this man still give you butterflies? You’re flustered in the middle of your own damn kitchen and he isn’t even there.

You wake up alone. You don’t like that, but it happens sometimes. You and Borracho don’t exactly have regular hours, it’s not like criminals keep their shenanigans to a 9-5 schedule. You used to be a light sleeper when it came to sleeping with someone else, but with Borracho… Hell, you don’t know if it’s how quietly he’s able to move or how safe you feel with him, but you almost never wake up when he gets out of bed. You pick up your phone and shut off the alarm; no texts, no calls from him or the guys, so things are probably status quo. You don’t have to be in the office for another hour. You slide out of bed and head into the kitchen. You’re alone, but you still smile when you see that he’s made you coffee and left you a post-it. ‘Got called into work early. See you later. Love you, sweetness. -B’

You shake your head a little bit, running your thumb over the ink. How the hell does this man still give you butterflies? You’re flustered in the middle of your own damn kitchen and he isn’t even there. Oh, but you can practically hear him saying it, too. And the fact that he even stopped to write a note-- You shake your head and stick it to the fridge under a magnet, alongside a few other notes he’s left you in the apartment. You’re smiling all through your first cup of coffee, as you get ready to go in, as you get in your car that morning. You usually try not to text Borracho when you know he’s out on the job - you don’t wanna distract him, and there’s a chance the guys’ll see it and get on both your cases, but you decide to risk it that morning. You pull your phone out and text him, I love you

It’s a few minutes before you get back, Wanna go out tonight? You raise a brow. Is this man up to something?

Big plans? taking us on a tour of a hot sauce factory

I’m pretty sure you’re making fun of me and I don’t appreciate it.

love you

Love you too --

It’s the usual crew at the office - though Borracho is noticeably absent. You don’t ask, is the thing, but Nick makes it a point to tell you that Borracho is out getting a statement from a witness. You nod a little bit and say, “...Okay,” Before turning back to your work. You swear up and down that you hear Henderson asking Conners if you bought that, but you try not to read into it. You’re sure you heard them wrong; if something was wrong with Borracho, they’d tell you. Besides, you’ve already talked to him today, you know he’s alright. But while you’re in the office, you notice the guys muttering to each other way more than usual. You can’t help but wonder if this is what they would’ve been like if you’d left your headphones out those first couple of weeks on the job. Headphones-- Your headphones, of course. The second you’ve got those suckers in, the guys’ll speak up at full volume. You open the desk drawer that you usually keep them in. Your jaw drops at the sight of another post-it.

Looking for something? ;) -B You’d told Borracho that you found out about most of the pools because of your little headphone trick. But why the hell has he taken them today? You close your drawer, narrowing your eyes. Oh, something is definitely up. -- “Really, you haven’t seen him all day?” Isobel asks. You glance up from where you’re bouncing her son on your knee. You’ve stopped by after work; you’ve got a little time before you need to be home to get ready. “Nope,” You shrug, “He got called into work early, and-- I don’t know, Nick said he was out speaking to a witness. We texted a little, but he’s been pretty busy today. We’re going out later, though.” “Ooo,” Nadia coos from behind you, where she’s feeding Lissie, “Do you know where?” “No idea, he hasn’t told me… I mean, he joked about a hot sauce factory, but the ones around here don’t have late tours.” You may or may not have checked while you were at work. His sisters are snickering at you already; they’ve seen you at barbecues, they know about the hot sauce packets you keep in your purse. You smile, laughing a little yourself. “It’ll be nice to go out, though. We haven’t had, like, a date-date in a while,” You realize it as you say so. Honestly, you haven’t really thought much of it; it’s not like you mind spending the night in with Borracho, you’re never bored. “...You know, you’re the first girl Borracho brought home in a really long time?” Nadia says, lowering herself into the seat beside Isobel. You raise a brow. You haven’t heard this before. “Really? How long?” “Oof,” Isobel mutters, “Jeez, the last would’ve been-- What, Angela?” “Which one was Angela? Highlights or lip piercing?” Nadia asks. “Lip piercing.” “Like, almost four years-ish?” Nadia offers. “‘Lip piercing’?” You repeat, amused, “I think I’ve got more questions about who ‘highlights’ was-- And what my attribute would be if you were describing me to someone else.” -- “No wig tonight?” You glance back at Borracho, arching a brow as he leans in the doorway of the bathroom. The pink wig you’d worn to the club a long time ago has made a reappearance a few times since you’d started dating. “Not tonight, babe,” You chuckle before you lean forward to do your eyeliner. You lean away from the mirror once you're finished, putting the cap back on the liner. Borracho steps into the bathroom, smoothing his hands over your hips. He presses a kiss to your neck before he cuddles up against you. You giggle, tipping your head to the side. “Maybe next time,” You add.

“I ain’t picky,” Borracho mumbles. You turn in his arms. “Gimme a kiss before I put my lipstick on,” You order. Borracho smiles.

“You sayin’ you’re not gonna kiss me once it’s on?”

“Oh, I’m absolutely gonna. Kiss me anyway,” You retort. You lean up, pecking Borracho’s lips a few times. His smile widens with each until he catches your lips with his. He lifts a hand from your hip, sliding it over your back. You sigh, leaning into his chest and wrapping your arms around his waist. You aren’t sure what it is, but something feels different about tonight. It isn’t how Borracho watched you get ready; he does that often. But this just feels sweet - so deliciously soft and slow. You can’t put your finger on it - but you aren’t rushing to, either. You just revel in Borracho’s warmth and closeness. He hums softly, squeezing your hip gently before he lifts his head, pressing a kiss to your temple.

“Finish getting ready, we’ll be late.”

“Or you could keep kissing me,” you mumble the argument against his chin. Borracho chuckles, cupping your chin and pecking your lips again.

“Later, sweetness.” -- “You don’t think we’re actually going to a hot sauce factory, right?” “No, of course not,” You scoff. “...You checked whether or not there were any open, didn’t you.” “...Might’ve taken a look.” Boraccho laughs, raising your joined hands to his lips and pressing a kiss to the back of yours. “Why?” You add, glancing over at him. “Couldn’t bear to break your heart like that.” --

The thing is, you guys had discussed it a few more times - the whole marriage thing. You’d never set a hard date, a deadline. You weren’t going to disappear if a ring wasn’t stuck on your finger within the next year or anything. But the last time you’d spoken about it seriously had been after Borracho had been shot. “I hated not being able to get back there and see you were alright for myself,” You’d admitted, “And-- Look, I love your family, but-- If anything like that ever happens again and they make me wait three fucking days to see you, Benny, I swear to god--” “I know,” He’d mumbled into your hair, “I know, and-- this is gonna sound shitty, but they were testing you, a little. I’ve had a couple of other girlfriends that saw me that way and couldn’t handle it. They wanted to see if you’d stick around.” You’d humphed, and snuggled deeper into his side. And he’d hesitated before saying, “If we were married, you would’ve been able to see me right away.” You’d glanced up at him and murmured, “I know.” “...Still think my sisters would kill us if we eloped?” “You know they would.” -- Beyond that, well, you hadn’t spoken about it much. At least, not with Borracho. You had with his sisters, looking back on it - about what kind of rings you liked (Megan and Isobel had each asked you if you liked theirs - Megan’s was a little too flashy for you; Isobel’s was close to what you liked in stone and size). You’d even tried Regina’s on (“For fun, honey, I’m curious,” She’d pressed you. It had been half a size too small). You didn’t think anything about it, though. You’d grown incredibly close with his family. “Aw, so sweet!” Nadia had cooed, seeing someone on tv propose to their girlfriend on the big screen at a football game, “Would you ever like something like that?” “Nah,” You’d wrinkled your nose, shaking your head, “So impersonal -- all those people staring at you. Plus-- Football?” The face you’d made had Nadia in stitches.

The two of you have dinner at one of your favorite restaurants. Borracho’s hand is in yours nearly all night, holding it in the car, on the table, on the way in and out of the restaurant. After dinner, the two of you drive up to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. He shuts off the car, and the two of you talk and make out lazily like a couple of teenagers. His hand smooths over your thighs and your stomach and your shoulder and your side; you tug at his hair and slide your hand under his collar and smooth your fingers over his tattoo. It’s like you were when you were getting ready - sweet, unhurried, soft. But you want to be home, and you want to take him apart at your leisure, without worrying about getting caught or being crammed uncomfortably in the front seat of the car, and you tell him as much. Borracho chuckles softly and slides his lips along yours in a half-kiss before murmuring, “Whatever you want, sweetness.”

You cuddle up against him as you wait for him to unlock the front door, slipping your hands under his t-shirt and running your nails over his sides. He huffs and fumbles with the keys a little, and you hide your grin in his shoulder.

“Having some trouble there?” You tease, smoothing your palms over the same spots.

“You’re a menace, sweetness,” He mutters before opening the door. You slide your hands out from his shirt so that the two of you can make it inside without any further incident. The door gets shut and locked, the hall light flicked on, and you’re already reaching for him again. He cups your cheeks, sweeping his thumbs over your cheekbones.

“Hey,” He murmurs.

“Mm?”

“I’ve-- Been thinking,” He manages between kisses, even as you’re trying to nudge him back toward the bedroom.

“Uh-oh,” You tease before nipping at his lip. Borracho laughs, leaning away to look at you.

“Listen to me,” He murmurs after a moment. Your brow furrows a little, and his finger reaches up to smooth away the little wrinkle before he chases the touch with a kiss.

“How long have we been together, huh?”

“Almost two years,” You say, letting your hands settle on his shoulders.

“The guys...They started betting whether or not you’d be able to stick through the week,” He shakes his head, and you bite your lips, because you know that they did, those ridiculous idiots, “But you stuck through -- all week, all month, all year and you’re still here… The second I knew you’d stick around here, though, with me,” he squeezes your hips, “Was that night, after I’d been coordinating with the FBI. You came over, you stayed, and... And I knew I didn’t want you to go…”

Usually by now you’d cut in, make a joke, but there’s something different about the way Borracho is looking down at you. So you just listen, smooth your fingers over the fabric of his shirt because even now, you can’t keep still.

“And I know that sometimes my family can be a lot-- And so can work--” He’s talking about when he was shot and you both know it. Your stomach turns at the reminder and you lower your eyes. He cups your chin and lifts your eyes to his again, “But I can’t imagine waking up without you, or-- Or coming home without you here… And I know you were worried when I was hurt. I hate that you couldn’t see me right away, and I don’t ever want you to have to go through that again... I love you, sweetness, and I know you love me.”

“‘Course I love you, Benny,” You manage after a moment, eyes searching his. He smiles, nudging his nose against yours. You’re distracted, leaning up into the motion, and you don’t notice him reaching into his pocket.

You frown as he leans away, but that frown melts into shock as he sinks to one knee, small velvet box in hand.

He opens it.

“Will you marry me, sweetness?”

You don’t know if you’re supposed to look at him or the ring-- and then you realized you haven’t said anything, but you’re nodding and your eyes are tearing up. You manage to get out, “Of course I’ll marry you.”

And Borracho’s face splits into the widest grin. He pulls the ring out of the box and slips it onto your proffered left ring finger -- and then laughs as you tug him up from the floor. You wrap your arms around his shoulders and press your face into his neck. He’s holding onto you, too, tight and steady, and pressing kisses to your cheek, your ear, your head, your shoulder - anywhere you can reach.

You turn your head to meet his lips, curling close to him, and he finally lets you steer him back toward your room.

-- "Why did you take my headphones?” You ask later. Borracho has his head on your stomach. He’s been nuzzling contentedly for the last few minutes, dropping the odd kiss to your stomach or hip, touchy in your afterglow. “Didn’t want you listening in on the guys,” He murmurs, “Didn’t want them spoiling it.” “Why’d you have Nick tell me where you were?” “Did you ask him?” “No, he just came over and told me.” Borracho scoffs, shaking his head, “Told him to only tell you if he asked.” “The rest’a the guys weren’t all that subtle, either. Kept whispering.” “And that’s why I took your headphones.” You chuckle, sweeping his hair away from his forehead. “You know me too well, baby.” You lift your hand and eye the ring, unable to help the smile that grows on your face. Borracho turns his head, kissing your wrist. “You like it?” He asks. “I love it,” You swear, lowering your hand to stroke his cheek, “And I love you.” You’ve lost track of how many times the two of you have said it in the last couple of hours. You know that tomorrow morning, you’re going to have to start thinking about planning. You’re going to call your parents to give them the news. You’re going to be going over to Isobel’s for breakfast with the family, too, and you know you’re going to hear all about how long they’ve known about Borracho’s plan. And then the wedding planning, the ideas for the wedding that they’ve probably had for months, the fact that you’re gonna have four flower girls and three little ring bearers from Borracho’s nieces and nephews alone. You don’t have to worry about that for a few hours yet. All you care about is the man leaning up for another kiss, another two kisses, another three kisses. You curl your arms around his shoulders and squeeze his hips with your knees as he murmurs, “I love you, too, Mrs. Magalon,” Against your lips.

#Benny Borracho #Benny Borracho Magalon #Benny Borracho x Reader #Benny Borracho x You #Benny Borracho/You #Benny Borracho/Reader #Benny Borracho Magalon x Reader #Benny Borracho Magalon x You #Benny Borracho Magalon/You #Benny Borracho Magalon/Reader #The Pool #The Question #den of thieves

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wiypt-writes · 3 years

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Riding On

Ch 13- Healthy Competition

Summary: Mary decides she wants to compete in her first horse riding competition, so the family take an outing and Frank gets a first-hand experience of the world Fliss once called her life.

Warnings: Bad Language words.

Pairing: Frank Adler x Fliss Gallagher

A/N: This is very Mary/horsey heavy so apologies in advance.

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Fliss Gallagher and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Riding On Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Chapter 12

October 2018

"Lissy, can I talk to you for a second?"

"Course you can sweetie." Fliss looked at Mary as she approached the sofa, Laptop in her arms. "Everything OK?”

"Yeah." Mary nodded, “Just before, some of the other girls at the yard were talking about a jumping competition in a few weeks and I was wondering…” She sat down, perching her laptop on her knees "Do you think maybe I could take Monty?"

"Do you wanna take him?" Fliss asked and Mary nodded. "Then of course you can"

"Really?" Mary's eyes lit up.

"Yeah, it's been ages since I went to a competition. It'll be fun!"

"I wasn't sure I would be good enough." Mary shrugged.

"Mary, Monty could do a jumping course with his eyes closed." Fliss smiled. “And you're plenty good enough. Besides, it doesn't matter anyway. It’s about enjoying yourself. I take it you got the website there?" She nodded to the laptop.

Mary grinned and opened it up. Fliss took it from her and quickly scanned the information. "FireAnt Farm Equestrian Centre, Tarpon Springs..." Fliss mused, quickly grabbing her phone to locate the area on Google maps.

"Is it too far?" Mary questioned.

"Nope." Fliss shook her head. "Probably take us forty minutes in the wagon. I used to travel much further."

"There's a lot of different classes to enter." Mary shuffled towards Fliss so she could see the screen too "I wasn't sure which one I would go in."

"I'd put you in the beginners class." Fliss replied as she read the details. "It's forty cm max height and you've jumped those plenty. And then why don't you try a few flat classes whilst we are there? The schedule doesn't look like they would clash."

"Flat class?" Mary frowned.” You mean like dressage?"

"Kinda, it’s about showing your pony off. You basically do a go round as a group in each pace on both reins and then you do a quick individual show. It’s easy, I used to do a simple figure of eight."

"Oh. Okay." Mary shrugged. "I never saw that before."

"Well, let's have a look." Fliss smiled, opening up a browser to YouTube. She flicked her eyes over to Alex who was fast asleep and then spent the next fifteen minutes or so showing Mary various videos of different kids showing classes on the Web.

"So Monty is a Welsh Pony." Fliss nodded.” Which means he doesn't need to be plaited, or braided, whatever. We turn him out true to type which means we just need to tidy his mane and tail up a bit. And as he's over fifteen he can go in the Pre-Veteran class. So they look at how he moves and performs for his age group. Why don't you do that which is the forth one in the morning and then do the junior rider. Then there's a long enough break before the beginners jumping."

"So I get to do three classes?" Mary grinned and Fliss nodded.

“Hey, it says here they're running a winter league." Fliss mused "Is that what you wanna do? Compete in the league or just the one off?"

"A league like they do for baseball or football?"

"Exactly that." Fliss nodded. "So you join up and it says here you get points immediately for just going in the class. They place to sixth position and award points. So you’d get ten points for finishing first, eight for second, six for third and so on. Then the person with the most points takes the Championship overall at the end."

She pointed at the screen “Say’s here the first one is on 3rd November and they run to March next year, so there’s five overall. What do you think?”

Mary grinned “Bring it on!”

Fliss smiled as Mary gave her a hi-five.

“Why don’t you bring Bronson?” Mary asked, “Or Cap?”

Fliss shook her head. “It wouldn’t be fair on everyone there.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, I competed at a professional level” Fliss shrugged “It wouldn’t be very sporting of me if I entered a class full of hobbyists. I would have hated it when I was there myself. The only way I’d do it is if I went in and declared I was 'hors concours' or HC as it’s known.”

“Hors concours?” Mary repeated “What’s that?”

“It means that I’d be taking part without actually competing. So I might enter a competition to give a young horse experience or what-have-you but my marks would not be counted as such.”

“Bronson is only six.” Mary said “You said he had never done a jumping competition before.”

“He hasn’t.” Fliss pondered. “Maybe next season. This one we concentrate on you.”

Mary grinned and then Fliss turned her attention to what they needed to get her. They spent a bit of time looking at Tweed showing jackets, Mary deciding on the type of thing she liked before Fliss found a decent value second hand one on a local Equestrian Buy and Sell group on Facebook which Mary eagerly nodded at, the same seller also having a Navy Blue show-jumping jacket the same size.

“When you’re not growing so fast I’ll buy you brand new ones.” Fliss smiled, tapping in a message to the seller arranging to collect the items the following mornings. “So you have your DeNiro boots which we can polish, your short boots as well, you have a hat that will be ok, it should be velvet but for the time being it will do, so we need canary and white jodhs… a show shirt, a tie. I think we need to take a trip up to the Tack Shack tomorrow.”

“Oh, yes let’s!” Mary smiled “I have some of my pocket money saved, I can put that towards it.”

“Put what towards what?” Frank asked as he walked into the family room. He dropped a kiss to Fliss’ cheek and ruffled Mary’s hair, causing her to scowl up at him. “More horse riding crap?” he nodded to the screen of the laptop.

“It’s not crap, how dare you.” Fliss scoffed as Frank gave a chuckle. “We were talking about all the stuff Mary is going to need for her first competition in two weeks.”

At that Frank paused, looking at Mary. “You’re going to a competition?”

“Yah-hah.” She nodded and Frank smiled.

“That’s great Stack!”.

“I’m gonna do three classes. Two showing and one jumping.” She told him enthusiastically. “So we already sorted my jacket and Fliss is taking me to the Tack Shack tomorrow for the rest of it.”

“Why what else do you need?”

“Jodhpurs, a shirt and a tie.” Mary nodded reeling it off. “Oh and a new hat at some point but Fliss says the one that I have will do.”

“Why do you need another hat?”

“Well strictly speaking show hats should be velvet or suede.” Fliss shrugged “But for this level it won’t matter.”

“Sounds like another bashing my card is gonna take.” Frank grumbled good-naturedly and Fliss swatted at him. He chuckled again and stood up straight from where he had been leaning on the back of the couch, heading to the fridge to retrieve his standard post work beer.

“Can I wear the same tie for show-jumping and showing?” Mary asked.

“Hmmmm possibly. We can get two.” Fliss shrugged. “One that matches your tweed and then you can pick whatever you want colour wise for jumping. Have a look on the website, see if there’s anything you like.”

Mary grinned and took the lap top off Fliss who stood up, stretching slightly. She headed over to Frank, slipping her arms round his waist.

“She’s excited.” He stated, watching Mary as she tapped at the keyboard. His chest was warm at the utter delight on the young girl’s face as she was searching different coloured ties. “What sparked her wanting to do this?” “Someone at the yard. She overheard them talking and asked if she could go.” Fliss smiled. “She wants to do the Winter League” “They run a league?” “Yeah.” Fliss smiled “Five competitions in total. It’ll be good for her, a bit of healthy competition. I already managed to grab her two jackets. Both second hand but no point shelling out loads when she’s gonna grow out of them by the end of the season. Tweeds cost a fortune.”

“How much are the hats she was talking about?” Frank asked, taking a swig of his beer, his eyes flicking back to Mary then to Fliss.

“Erm, her size probably about eighty bucks, why?”

“Just get her one.” He smiled gently, dropping his voice “She never asks for stuff like this so…”

“You big softie.” Fliss smiled, standing on her toes to give him a kiss. “I love you.”

“Love you too. And thank you.” Frank gently, bumped his nose against hers.

“What for?” Fliss frowned.

“For this.” He nodded to Mary “Doing stuff that makes her excited and happy.��

“You don’t need to thank me.” Fliss looked at him, and then for the first time she noticed the look on his face. He was watching Mary, his eyes not quite as full of their usual sparkle. “Frankie, what’s wrong?”

He took a deep breath and looked at Mary “Hey Stack, have you spoken to grandmother this week?”

“Not yet.” Mary said “I was gonna later, why?”

“Why don’t you give her a call before dinner?” He suggested “You can tell her about your competition.”

“Okay.” Mary shrugged standing up “But if you wanted to talk in private you could just ask.”

“Fine, we wanna talk in private” Frank looked at her and Mary snorted as she stood up and looked at him.

“You forget I know you, Frank.”

“Oh, trust me I don’t.” He shot after her as she laughed, climbing the stairs.

Fliss turned to Frank as he sat down on one of the stools by the breakfast bar. “Honey, what is it?”

“I spoke to Greg before.” He looked at her as she moved to stand between his legs. “He still hasn’t heard back from her father about the adoption.”

“Okay.” Fliss dropped her hands to his shoulders as his rest on her hips “That doesn’t mean he’s gonna cause an issue.”

“No, but Greg’s twitchy, I can tell. I mean if the asshole wasn’t bothered about Mary surely we would have heard by now. It’s been almost eight weeks.” Frank wrinkled his nose.

“Baby there’s nothing we can do about it.” Fliss soothed “Yeah, if he protests it’s gonna be a little more agro than we thought but…well, we’ll just have to face it when it happens, ok?”

“I know I just…well I was hoping this would be done for Christmas, that’s all.”

“It might be yet, it’s not even November. Is there anything Greg can do?”

“He’s gonna send a chaser letter but other than that not really.” Frank shrugged before he sighed “I know you’re right, there’s nothing we can do but that doesn’t stop me worrying about it.”

“I know, because you love her. We both do. I’m worried as well but like you said to me, whatever happens we face it together.” She leaned down to give him a quick peck “Now, change of subject…you gonna come with us to the competition in a few weeks? Be nice for us all to go. Can be our first proper family outing.”

“Will there be beer?” Frank pondered, his hand sliding down the outside of her thighs and back up again.

“We can take a cool box” she smiled.

Frank chuckled “Of course I’ll come. Wouldn’t miss her first competition for the world.”

******

October ticked into November, bringing with it a slight drop in temperature and still no movement on the Adoption. However, Frank and Fliss had pushed it to the back of their minds which in the grand scheme of things wasn’t that hard as Mary’s excitement over her impending first competition was infectious.

When Fliss took her to the Tack Shack and told her that Frank said she could get a competition hat, Mary had almost cried, giving Fliss a huge hug but reserving the biggest hug of all for her Uncle when she got home. She’d paraded around the family room in her show gear, showing off her outfit for both Fliss, Frank and then again for Verity and Bill, and on a video call to Evelyn.

She practiced with Fliss or Joanne every day after school. They taught her the ring etiquette, how to talk to the judge and also set up a full course for her to practice on, Fliss teaching her all about how the first round was about getting clear and the jump off also introduced the element of time. Fliss felt an overwhelming sense of pride as the girl improved day by day and found herself actually believing that she’d do pretty well when the day came.

The afternoon before the show was spent with one final practice and then Mary had to give Monty a bath. Whilst he was drying off she then loaded the wagon with her jackets, cleaned her tack and then carried that to the wagon too where Fliss placed it in the tack locker, locking it up.

Frank was under the bonnet of said wagon, checking the oil and the coolant to make sure it was ready for the trip in the morning when he heard footsteps on the gravel and he looked up to see Mary hopping up the steps into the back of the wagon.

“What’s she checking now?” He looked over at Fliss, straightening himself up and reaching for the rag that was tucked in the back pocket of his dirty jeans. Fliss didn’t reply, she was too busy scanning Frank from head to toe, and making no attempt to even disguise the fact she was perving on him. “Earth to Lissy…”

“Yeah, sorry…what?” She asked, looking at him, biting her lip.

He snorted as he wiped his hands on the rag, shaking his head “And you call me a pervert.”

Fliss shrugged “I told you, the whole dirty mechanic things does stuff to me.”

“And the dirty mechanic will do stuff to you if you give him half a chance.” He grinned and she smirked, arching an eyebrow.

“You’ll corrupt our son.” She grinned, placing her hands over his ears, where he was positioned in the baby sling at her chest. “Mind you, he’s probably already scarred for life after your antics last night.”

“Didn’t hear you complaining.” Frank smirked. “Quite the opposite in fact.”

Fliss bit her lip a the memory of a particularly good round of sex the night before, which had resulted in her on all fours in the middle of the mattress. Looking at Frank she shrugged and he snorted, closing the bonnet of the wagon.

“All set.” He nodded towards it. “Oil topped up, coolant and water levels good…”

“So you didn’t find anything to fix, like I told you that you wouldn’t.”

“Hey, I just wanted to make sure it’s safe for my girls, it hasn’t been anywhere in a while.” He shrugged

“Joanne used it yesterday to go to the wholesalers for feed and shavings.” Fliss looked at him.

“Yeah, well…whatever, I make no apologies for wanting to check anyway.” He smiled, taking the kiss she offered.

Mary jumped down from the back of the wagon and reached up to lock the back door before she trotted round and handed Fliss the keys.

“You happy you got everything?” Frank looked at her. “Seeing as that’s like the five-hundredth time you checked.”

“Don’t exaggerate.” Mary rolled her eyes as Alex made a noise and the three of them looked at him before Mary pointed. “See, even he thinks you’re an idiot.”

“Rude.” Frank grumbled.

After one last check on Monty who was sparkling white (although Fliss knew they’d end up giving him another quick clean up in the morning), they headed home and after a quick shower Frank lit the BBQ outside. The family enjoyed a good grill for dinner, before Fliss disappeared upstairs and came back with a wrapped packaged. Frank frowned, as she handed it to Mary.

“Everyone needs one of those for competitions.” She smiled, as Mary looked at her, taking it gently.

“What is it?”

“Open it and see!” Fliss rolled her eyes as she sat back down on the seat, glancing at Frank who had Alex against his chest, his head resting on his shoulder.

Mary tore the wrapping paper off and gasped as she held up the pink gilet top. It had a small horse’s head embroidered on the front right hand breast but it was what was on the back that had caught her eye. She looked at it, then to Fliss and with a stunned smile turned it round so Frank could see. It was a motif of a horse jumping her fence with ‘Mary Adler’ arched over the top in gold, cursive writing and ‘Monte Carlo VI’- Monty’s show-name- underneath in the same typeface. Small diamantes were scattered around the entire design which caught the lights that were dotted around the garden and Frank’s face broke into a huge smile as Mary looked at him, then to Fliss.

“Sally has one of these for Jackson.” She whispered. “I always wanted one, how did you know?”

Fliss smiled “Sally’s mum told me you asked where she got it from. I thought I’d get you one. It’s a bit bigger so will fit over your jackets and a hoody if you need it to. You can wear it in the collecting ring and then take it off before you go in to do your shows and jumping.” “Lissy I love it, thank you so much!” Mary stood up and rounded the table to give Fliss a huge hug. Fliss kissed her head and cupped her cheek.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.”

“Well, come on.” Frank nodded to it. “Let’s see it on!”

Mary grinned and shrugged the gilet on over her jumper and beamed, giving them a twirl. Fliss told her to stand still and took a photo of the front and the back if it, before setting her phone down on the table.

After a little more chat, given the fact they had a busy day they all headed up to bed. Frank tucked Mary in before Fliss popped in to say goodnight, Thor jumping up onto Mary’s bed clearly deciding he was staying there for the evening with Fred. Fliss closed the door and made her way to the master bedroom where Frank was led on top of the bed in his boxers, Alex sleeping in the basinet as his dad flicked through the channels on the TV.

“How much did that gilet set you back?” he asked and Fliss wrinkled her nose.

“Does it matter?” “Not really.” Frank chuckled. “You spoil her.”

“So do you.” Fliss shrugged and pulled off her T-shirt and jeans before opening the door to the en-suite.

“But if it makes you feel better, I got a present for you too, Sailor.” She grinned, shedding her underwear and beckoning for him to follow her.

Frank blinked, smirked and jumped up off the bed, the pair of them giggling as he dispensed of his boxers and backed his future wife into the shower, shutting the cubicle door behind him.

*****

Fliss and Mary set off early the next morning, whilst Frank took a little more time making sure he had everything Alex needed before he headed out to his truck and keyed the location into his GPS. When he arrived he parked up, got Alex settled in the stroller and wandered down the yard. As he rounded the corner, he gave a blink, the place was packed with horses and people, all sorts of different competitions going on. After a little walk around he located their wagon and as luck would have it, Fliss and Mary were making their way back. He smiled, Mary was dressed in her older jodhpurs, and a hoody with her personalised gilet proudly donning her top half where-as Fliss looked every bit the cowgirl in her jeans, plaid shirt, cowboy boots and her hat.

“Hey!” She greeted him, giving him a quick kiss before she looked at Alex, her hand stroking his cheek.

“You all set?” Frank asked and Mary grinned.

“Yeah, we booked in, registered…I got my membership number...” she held up the laminated piece of paper with the digits 287 printed on “…and we got about 40 minutes until my first class.”

“So we need to get him off the wagon, quick bush down and then you can get on to warm up.” Fliss said, nodding to the ramp. Frank moved the stroller out of the way and he and Fliss undid the latches, dropping it down as Mary hopped up and undid he partition. She brought Monty down and set about undoing his travel boots and his tail bandage, taking his tail out of the braid before she hopped up to get her brushes.

“She’s like a coiled spring.” Fliss grinned, looking at Frank who chuckled.

“Yeah, she doesn’t do anything by halves.” He smiled, looking around “It’s busy.”

“First one of a season always is.” Fliss mused “There’s over twenty in her first class and 11 so far in her second. No idea about the jumping, I didn’t ask. I told her not to bother about it, as long as she enjoys herself…”

Frank smiled as Fliss gently touched his arm and set about helping Mary. Fifteen minutes later Monty was tacked up and Frank, from what little he knew about horses, had to admit they looked pretty smart. Her tweed was a dark green with a check pattern of brown and pinks, her show shirt was cream and the tie she was wearing was a green and pink striped one, matching perfectly. Fliss had braided Mary’s hair so it hung down her back and had secured it with a matching ribbon and as she jammed her new hat on she grinned at Frank.

“Looking good Stack” he smiled.

“Ok, ready?” Fliss asked.

Mary nodded and hopped up onto the small step at the back of the wagon, vaulting onto Monty, the pony simply standing still and observing his surroundings as if he did this every day.

Frank pushed the stroller as Fliss walked besides him, Mary slightly ahead as she made her way into the collecting ring. Fliss followed her in and Frank stood at the side, watching as Fliss made sure the girth on the saddle was tight enough before she nodded, spoke to Mary who also gave a nod and walked away from Fliss. Fliss stayed in the ring with her, gently giving her instructions, helping Mary to warm Monty in. And then Mary’s class was called. Fliss took the gilet off her before Mary looked over at Frank. He gave her a huge grin and a thumbs up and she smiled back before he saw her take a deep breath and follow another rider into the ring.

Fliss joined him and they made their way down a little so they could watch. Monty was easily the smallest pony in the class and Frank frowned.

“He looks tiny.” “He is only 14’2 hands high.” Fliss shrugged “But this is a veteran class, for horses fifteen and over. So they’ll look at how he moves, not how he looks next to the other horses.”

“Oh.” Franks shrugged, turning his attention to Mary, then the two women stood in the middle “Are they the judges?”

“The one in the hat is the judge.” Fliss said “The other is a steward. She basically shouts the instructions out and helps the judge.”

Frank watched as the woman instructed the group to trot on. They did a few laps around the ring before they set off into canter. Mary’s face was set in concentration as thy ride repeated the action on the opposite rein before they all lined up.

“Now they do their individual shows.” Fliss said, her eyes focussing on the action in the ring. “This is what Mary was practicing yesterday when you showed up.”

There were two horses before it was Mary’s turn. She walked Monty out of the line-up and stood him, perfectly square in front of the judge. She chatted to the woman who walked around Monty to take a look at him, before Mary set off to do her show. Frank glanced at Fliss and smiled as his girl was beaming with pride as Mary completed her show, foot (or hoof) perfect before she halted, saluted to the judge and then gave Monty a huge pat. She glanced over at Fliss who gave her a thumbs up, smiling.

All in all it took about forty minutes to work through the class, and once the last person had done they all set off in a walk as the judge was muttering something, her eyes flicking along the ponies. Eventually she nodded and the steward walked out, pointing to a large bay. A few people started clapping as the Bay moved inwards to take first place, and then next was a smaller chestnut and then she pointed at Mary.

“Fuck, Frank she got third!” Fliss almost exploded as she started to cheer, Frank giving a grin as he also clapped, Mary’s face split into a huge grin as she took her place. 4th, 5th and 6th were awarded, rosettes were handed out and then the placings took a lap of honour before exiting the ring.

“Well done!” Fliss beamed at Mary as she grinned, looking at her yellow rosette “3rd out of 20! Mary that’s amazing for your first go!”

Mary nodded, taking a deep breath, the tears filling her eyes “I’m so happy!” she spluttered and Frank gave a chuckle, looping his arm around her, giving Monty a pat.

But that was nothing compared to her reaction when she won second place in the next class she was in, the Junior Rider. Fliss really did explode at that point, and Mary burst into tears, the judge looking a little shocked before she smiled at Mary, handing her the blue rosette.

After they’d calmed Mary down, they untacked Monty as there was a little wait until the jumping started and Frank headed off to grab them a burger from the fast food van at the far end of the yard. They sat on the ramp of the wagon, Frank teasing Mary as usual, before they heard a little cough and all looked up.

“I’m really sorry to bother you.” A woman spoke shyly “But are you Fliss Gallagher.”

“Yeah.” Fliss smiled “Erm, hi.”

“My daughter…she’s a huge fan. She followed you and Charlotte DuJardin in the 2012s and she’s…well, she’s hiding over there because she wouldn’t come speak to you.” The woman bashfully admitted and Fliss felt her cheeks growing red.

“Oh…thanks.” She said, “Which one is she?”

“The blonde over there…”“Be back in a sec.” She smiled at Frank, standing up.

Frank looked at Mary, his mouth falling open “What just happened?”

“Fliss is a horse riding celebrity Frank.” Mary shrugged. “She was a huge star until her accident.”

Frank turned and watched as Fliss spoke to the teen who was clearly in awe, and then smiled and nodded when her mom waved her phone. She posed for a quick photo before she turned and started to walk back towards them.

“I feel kinda sorry for her in a way.” Mary sighed.

“How do you mean?” Frank looked at his niece.

“Well, imagine finally doing the job you always dreamed of…only to have it cut short like she did.” Mary spoke, her mouth full of burger “Half the show-jumping teams around the world have people in them that are in their sixties you know. Fliss was only 28.”

Frank pondered for a moment as Fliss approached, he hadn’t really thought about it from that point of view before, nor had he even considered for one second that Fliss might still be recognised. Either way, he felt a little warmth in his chest as she flopped back down next to him, reaching for the rest of her burger.

“Can I get an autograph?” he asked.

“Piss off.” She snorted as he laughed, dropping a kiss to her cheek.

Despite having enjoyed Mary’s flat shows, Frank did NOT enjoy the jumping. It scared the shit out of him. Fliss walked the course with Mary, now dressed in her jumping outfit of white breeches, navy jacket and a bright pink and blue sparkly tie as they examined the route she would take. And then far too soon in his opinion it was her turn to go in and he wasn’t sure he could watch.

“And entering the ring now we have Mary Adler riding Monte Carlo VI…” the announcer spoke on the tanoy as Mary trotted Monty in. The buzzer sounded and she picked up canter and pointed the pony at the first jump. Monty cleared it with ease and did the same with the 2nd, 3rd…all the way to the 11th leaving one to go.

“She clears this she’s in the jump off.” Fliss muttered. Frank took a deep breath, watching as Mary approached the small oxer and Monty took off. His back feet brushed the pole and Fliss held her breath, but thankfully despite rolling, it didn’t fall.

“Wait, that means she has to do that again, right?” Frank asked as Fliss clapped and cheered as Mary headed towards the gate to exit the field.

“Yeah, but not as many.” Fliss said, as she headed over to Mary.

Not as many, but twice as damned fast as Frank found out. The ponies where whizzing over the 5 jumps in the jump off, which were part of the course but not in order, the numbers being 2, 7, 5,9 and 8 the turns being tighter as the idea was still to go clear, but in the event more than one clear was achieved it went down to time.

The riders were in no order, and Mary decided to go a little further down the line so she could watch the others take the turns, a tactic Fliss suggested. By the time she was due to go in there were 5 clears already.

“Ok, so you’re gonna have to go for speed too.” Fliss said, looking at her “But the main thing is try and stay clear. If you want my advice, cut the corner between numbers 5 and 6. Everyone is looping round 6 to get to 9 but if you hang a right as soon as you’re over 5 you’ll have a few seconds off. Its tight, and he won’t have as many strides, probably 3 max, but let him take you ok?”

Mary nodded, swallowed and headed in. She took the first jumps easily and then after the 3rd did exactly what Fliss said. Monty put in an extra half stride, however, which threw Mary’s balance a little as he took off and for a horrible moment Frank thought she was going to fall but she didn’t, she regained her balance and turned, taking the last 2 jumps easily.

Mary secured 4th place in her jumping, the smile on her face was infectious and Frank found himself beaming along with them as they walked back to the wagon.

***** “Where’s Stack?” Frank asked as Fliss emerged into the room dropping the bag of Mary’s show clothing onto the sofa. Thor, who had been with Joanna whilst they had been out all day, flopped down onto the rug in front of the TV.

“She’s giving Monty some treats after he did so well today, and chewing Jo’s ear off about the competition. Jo said she’d watch her back over when she’s done.” Fliss smiled, reaching for Alex as he started to gripe “You hungry, Bean?”

Frank smiled as she settled on the sofa, undoing her shirt so she could feed him and he sat on the arm, looking down at her.

“She did so well today.” He said, “I never in a million years dreamed she’d be doing anything like this.” “Well, I did warn you the first time you walked onto my yard that once you have that horse smell on your hands, you’re hooked.”

“Don’t I know it?” Frank grinned, kissing her cheek.

A little while later, Fliss finished up feeding Alex and peered down at him, the baby gazing at her, waving his eyes, his lips curling up into a smile and Fliss laughed.

“He’s smiling again.” She said.

“Sure it’s not wind?” Frank teased.

“Err, no I just burped him.” Fliss scofed indignantly “They start smiling at 6 weeks, he’s smiling. I can tell.”

Frank chuckled and peered down, smiling at his baby and earning himself one back in return. He gently took him from Fliss so she could do up her top before he set him down and followed her into the kitchen where, upon examining the contents of the fridge, they settled on take out for dinner.

“So I know Mary did but did you enjoy it?” Frank asked as Fliss pulled a beer for them both out of the fridge.

“Yeah, yeah I did. You know, seeing it there, all those people competing…there’s nothing like that around here.” “Got me thinking, maybe I could run something like that at some point down the line.” “Sandybrook Show huh?” Frank smiled as he popped the caps off their beers, settling down at the kitchen counter.

Fliss grinned “Yeah, it would be kind of cool to expand into stuff like that.” She took a drink “I’ve actually been giving it a bit of thought in general.”

“What, competitions?” Frank asked.

“No, expanding.” Fliss swallowed a mouthful of drink “The land at the back has always been available to me to buy, the old Farmer said he would give it to me whenever I want, and it would add another ten acres to the portfolio. I could grow the yard area, more stables, more grazing, hold events like that one today…” she trailed off, frowning as she noticed the look on Frank’s face. “What’s wrong? Don’t you think it’s a good idea?”

“No, I mean yeah, I do. We always talked about expanding your business.” He hesitated “I guess I didn’t realise it would be so soon.”

“What do you mean?” Fliss looked at him. “I’ve been up and running now for almost three years.”

“I mean after Alex being born.” Frank said, his eyes flicking to where his baby son was asleep in the basinet. “He’s barely ten weeks old Liss, don’t you think you’d be taking on too much?”

“I’d manage” she waved her hand “I could recruit more staff.”

She could see from the look on Frank’s face he wasn’t convinced. She took a deep breath and turned in her seat so her body was facing his “Sailor,I can tell you’re not happy about the idea.”

“Of course I don’t like it.” Fliss frowned “I’m breast feeding him, and-“

“Exactly.” Frank looked at her “So you take on this extra work, what are you going to do? You wanna put him in Creche, find a Childminder?”

Fliss shrugged a little “Mum said she would have him but I don’t want to put that on her, not every day. Maybe two days a week and then I don’t have to be at the yard all the time. Joanne runs things now and I can just…”

Frank chuckled “I know you. Name me one day in your pregnancy that you didn’t pop in. You were teaching like almost until the day you dropped. And before you start I’m not saying that was a bad thing, far from it. You said yourself it kept you active and your brain engaged. I’m just saying there’s no way you’ll take a back seat. It’s bad enough trying to get you to stick to your Sundays off.”

“I know.” Fliss nodded “But that’s something I’ll have to get stricter at.”

“Ok.” Frank took a deep breath “Whatever you say.”

Fliss frowned “Don’t do that.”

“Do what?”

“Dismiss what I said.”

“I wasn’t.” Frank shook his head.

“Yes you were, you just completely shrugged it off.”

“No.” Frank said, his voice remaining calm “I said whatever you say. If you say that’s what you’re gonna do then…”

“Don’t you want me to do this or something?” Fliss asked and Frank took a deep sigh.

“Liss, we literally just went over this. I never said I didn’t want you to do it. Quite the opposite. I just…well I think it’s too soon ok?” he looked at her “Alex isn’t sleeping through yet, you’re tired during the day as you tell me when I get home. Hell, I’m tired and my job is nowhere near as physically demanding as yours not to mention the fact I’m not the one feeding him and…” he licked his lips

“You fix boats.” Fliss looked at him, a little sullenly “That’s physical.”

“Not as much as I used to.” Frank shook his head “I’m based in the office a lot now, as you well know because you complain I don’t come home full of grease as much as I used to. We won’t mention the fact that I’m growing a little…how do I put this, softer round the edges now because of that, hence the weights in the garage”. He smiled, attempting to make a joke out of it as he could recognise only too well the look in her eye. It wasn’t full blown anger yet but if he didn’t cut the discussion off soon it was going to be. “Look...” he reached out and took her hand “We’re incredibly lucky. We’re in a position where you don’t need to rush back to work. My job pays well, your business brings you in a very decent turnover each month, we have savings…I just think that we should take advantage of that and you should take a few more months off, maybe look at going back in March, say. Take a full 6 off to be with him, enjoy being a mom.”

“Is that what you want me to do?” Fliss asked after a moments pause.

“This isn’t about what I want.” Frank sighed, his tone now starting to betray his frustration. “I can’t and won’t stop you doing anything, you know this. I just want you to consider your options, that’s all.” Fliss took a deep breath, gave a nod and pushed her stool back, draining the rest of her beer. “Where you going?” Frank frowned.

“For a shower.” She said simply “I need to get out of these jeans and this shirt.”

Frank gave a groan “Why do you do this?” “Do what?”

“Every time we have a slight difference in opinion on something you clam up.” He looked at her “Let’s talk this through, Liss. Don’t walk away.”

“I’ve nothing else to say.” Fliss said, her voice ending in a little chuckle. “You’ve made your opinion on the matter very clear.”

“Yeah, and now I’m waiting to hear yours.”

Fliss took a deep breath “I don’t wanna take six months off.”

“Ok.” Frank nodded “Then you don’t have to. I still think it’s too soon for you to be looking at expanding though.”

“I know what you think Frank, you told me.” Fliss shrugged “You don’t need to keep repeating yourself.”

“I keep repeating myself because you seem to be completely and utterly dismissing what I’m saying.” Frank looked at her.

“For fucks sake Frank.” Fliss looked at him. “Stop talking to me like I’m one of the kids.”

“Well to be honest, you’re doing a pretty good job of acting like one.” Frank looked at Fliss, his eyebrow raised as he felt his temper beginning to flare “And a petulant one at that.”

Fliss gave a chuckle of ironic laughter “Oh that’s rich, you calling me a petulant child. You’re the one kicking off because I’m refusing to entertain some stupid idea about taking 6 months off work”

“You know, a lot of women would kill to be in the position to be able to do that.” Frank looked at her and she shrugged.

“So?” she frowned “With the greatest of respects, I don’t care. Yes, I’m lucky. I get that but I don’t want to Frank!”

“And I’m not saying you have to! Jesus Christ!” Frank groaned “When did I, at any point in this discussion, ever say you have to stay at home huh? You tell me exactly when those words left my mouth….” Fliss looked at him, and blinked as her mouth closed and she swallowed. “See, you can’t because I didn’t say it!”

“Well, you might as well have.” She glared at him “You’re trying to control my decision about what I feel is right for me…”

“You think…” Frank cocked his head to one side, as he felt a flash of angry heat rush up his neck to his cheeks at her words. His temper was really brewing now, the angry knot in his stomach growing tighter by the second. “You think I’m trying to control you?”

“Well aren’t you?”

“Well I don’t want to discuss it anymore.” Fliss’s voice raised “So, like I said. I’m going for a shower. Or would you like to discuss that as well.”

“Oh for fucks sake…” Frank groaned his hands rubbing his face as he let out a frustrated noise, shaking his head. “You know what, I give in. Do what you want. Shower, buy more land, work, don’t work…just…whatever.”

Fliss shot Frank a glare, and then a small noise from the basinet jerked them both out of the stare-down and Fliss headed over to pick him up. Turning she made for the door, baby in her arms.

“What are you doing?” Frank asked.

“Going for a shower, like I just said.”

“Well leave him with me.” Frank frowned, “What’s the point of taking him upstairs just to lay him in the crib whilst you shower?”

“Because I want to take him with me.” Fliss looked at Frank. “I can leave the door open. I like him being there. Is it a problem?”

Frank snorted, his hands on his hips as he looked at his feet “No problem.” He huffed out a little laugh as he raised his face to look at her “But you tell me you’re ready to go back to work when you can’t bear to be apart for the ten minutes it takes you to shower.”

Fliss’ face fell and Frank felt a pang of guilt at what he had said, but in his mind it was true. She hated leaving him, and he didn’t want her to be in a position where she felt she needed to, whether it was to prove something to herself or everyone else. He’d never tell her this but he loved the homely feel of coming home and his future wife and baby son both waiting for him, either on the sofa or the sun lounger. It was a wonderful, caring, passionate environment that he’d never had before and if he was brutally honest he’d quite happily see her at home until Alex was back in school. She didn’t need to work, but she wanted to, he got that. And he would never stop her. But the fact was she was still on edge about their son being left with people and he could almost picture the melt down she was going to have if she rushed back.

“Fuck you” Fliss seethed at him, drawing him out of his thoughts as Alex began to cry, clearly picking up the vibes in the room. Frank sighed, shaking his head as Fliss began to soothe him

“Lissy, just…”

But she didn’t stay to listen, instead she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, Alex’s little whimpers dying in his ears as she made her way up the stairs.

The argument made for a tense family dinner. They both tried their best to be normal, talking to Mary about her day, not wanting to but a dampener on it but as ever she was sharp. When Frank tucked her in, she asked him about it and he assured her there was nothing to worry about and that it was a silly disagreement which would be forgotten in the morning.

He hoped.

Fliss didn’t really speak to him much the rest of the evening, taking herself to bed early and she was flat out when he came up a little later. With a sigh he gently brushed the hair off her cheek before he kissed her temple and settled down himself.

He woke in the middle of the night, and still half asleep reached out to Fliss’ side of the bed but she wasn’t there. He sat up, blinking and then saw that Alex’s bedside crib was empty too. Frowning, he climbed out of bed and as he headed downstairs he could head soft baby cries from the family room.

“Hey, everything okay?” Frank asked, opening the door and looking at Fliss as she was stood by the large window seat, gently rocking Alex as she tried to calm him.

“Yeah he’s grouchy.” She said, “I’ve fed him, he’s been changed…” “Want me to take him?” He offered and she shook her head.

"It’s fine Frank, I got him. I mean, that is what you wanted isn’t it? Me, being a good little wifey-to-be and mummy, right?"

Frank blinked before he gave a groan “Really, do we have to do this now?” he sighed, shaking his head. “I never said that, at all.”

“What it sounded like to me.” “How would you know?” He looked at her “You were so focussed on your position that you didn’t listen to a damned word I said. Because if you had you would have understood my point of view instead of accusing me of trying to control you.” He took a deep breath “When are you going to get it into your head that I am not your shit bag ex?”

“I didn’t say that.” Fliss looked at him, shaking her head

“But you thought it.” Frank eyed her “I could see it on your face.”

“There you go again, presuming you know what I’m thinking.”

“Am I wrong?”

“Yes, you are.” Fliss looked at him “What I was actually thinking was how shit it was you couldn’t just support me with what I wanted to do.” “Baby, I do support you, and I’ll back you with whatever you want to do, but I’m not gonna lie to you and say I’m happy about something when I’m not.” Frank shook his head.

“How can you back me when you don’t agree with what I want?”

“Because that’s what being together is about.” Frank looked at her “It doesn’t matter what I think…” “It matters to me.” Frank let out a groan “We’re going round in circles…” he shook his head as Alex’s screaming grew louder “Look, why don’t you let me take him? You go get some rest, we can talk about this later.” “I said I got him its fine.” Fliss shook her.

“Oh for fucks- just let me help will you?”

“Go back to bed Frank.” Fliss blazed it him in the dim light of the family room, her brown eyes angry “You have work in the morning, I don’t. Remember?”

He words themselves were innocuous, but the sheer sarcastic way she said them wasn’t. Frank felt the weary anger from their earlier argument which he had been fighting so hard to keep buried, slowly seeping back into his veins. He’d tried to explain his point of view, over and over again but she was being too fucking stubborn to even attempt to see it through his eyes. As he watched her cradling their sobbing son to her chest he didn't have the energy to keep going round and round in circles, not at 3 in the morning anyway. So instead he gave into the frustration he was feeling, and shot a stinging barb, one simple word spoken with exasperation as he shook his head and turned to leave the room. "Bitch"

**** Chapter 14

#riding on #frank adler #frank adler x ofc #frank adler x original female character #gifted #gifted fan fic #chris evans #chris evans characters

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what-is-your-plan-today · 4 years

Text

Riding On Ch 13: Healthy Competition

Summary: Mary decides she wants to compete in her first horse riding cotest, so the family take an outing and Frank gets a first-hand experience of the world Fliss once called her life.

Warnings: Bad Language words.

Pairing: Frank Adler x Fliss Gallagher

A/N: This is very Mary/horsey heavy so apologies in advance. Thank you to @southerngracela and @icanfeelastormbrewing for the beta reading and ideas.

Chapter Song: It’s My Life by Bon Jovi

Series Masterlist // WIYPT Masterlist

My heart is like an open highway, like Frankie said I did it my way. I just want to live while I'm alive

October 2018

"Lissy, can I talk to you for a second?"

"Course you can sweetie." Fliss looked at Mary as she approached the sofa, Laptop in her arms. "Everything OK?” "Yeah." Mary nodded, “Just before, some of the other girls at the yard were talking about a jumping competition in a few weeks and I was wondering..." she sat down, perching her laptop on her knees "Do you think maybe I could take Monty?" "Do you wanna take him?" Fliss asked and Mary nodded. "Then of course you can" "Really?" Mary's eyes lit up. "Yeah, it's been ages since I went to a competition. It'll be fun!" "I wasn't sure I would be good enough." Mary shrugged. "Mary, Monty could do a jumping course with his eyes closed." Fliss smiled "and you're plenty good enough. Besides, it doesn't matter anyway. It’s about enjoying yourself. I take it you got the website there?" She nodded to the laptop. Mary grinned and opened it up. Fliss took it from her and quickly scanned the information. "FireAnt Farm Equestrian Centre, Tarpon Springs..." Fliss mused, quickly grabbing her phone to locate the area on Google maps. "Is it too far?" Mary questioned. "Nope." Fliss shook her head. "Probably take us 40 minutes in the wagon. I used to travel much further." "There's a lot of different classes to enter." Mary said, shuffling towards Fliss so she could see the screen too "I wasn't sure which one I would go in." "I'd put you in the beginners class." Fliss said "It's 40cm max height and you've jumped those plenty. And then....why don't you try a few flat classes whilst we are there? The schedule doesn't look like they would clash..." "Flat class?" Mary frowned "like dressage?" "Kinda, it’s about showing your pony off. You basically do a go round as a group in each pace on both reins and then you do a quick individual show. It’s easy, I used to do a simple figure of 8." "Oh. OK." Mary shrugged. "I never saw that before." "Well, let's have a look." Fliss smiled, opening up a browser to YouTube. She flicked her eyes over to Alex who was fast asleep and then spent the next 15 minutes or so showing Mary various videos of different kids showing classes on the Web. "So Monty is a Welsh Pony." Fliss said "so he doesn't need to be plaited…or braided, whatever. We turn him out true to type which means we just need to tidy his mane and tail up a bit. And as he's over 15 he can go in the Pre-Veteran class. So they look at how he moves and performs for his age group. Why don't you do that which is the 4th one in the morning and then do the junior rider. Then there's a long enough break before the beginners jumping." "So I get to do 3 classes?" Mary grinned and Fliss nodded. “Hey, it says here they're running a winter league." Fliss mused "Is that what you wanna do? Compete in the league or just the one off?" "A league like with baseball or football?" "Exactly that." Fliss nodded. "So you join up and it says here you get points immediately for just going in the class. They place to 6th position and award points according with the highest being 12 to first. Then the person with the moat points takes the Championship overall at the end."

She pointed at the screen “Say’s here the first one is on 3rd November and they run to March next year, so there’s 5 overall. What do you think?” Mary grinned “Bring it on!”

Fliss smiled as Mary gave her a hi-five.

“Why don’t you bring Bronson?” Mary asked, “Or Cap?” Fliss shook her head. “It wouldn’t be fair on everyone there.”

“What do you mean?”

“Hors concours?” Mary repeated “What’s that?”

“It means that I’d be taking part without actually competing. So I might enter a competition to give a young horse experience or what-have-you but my marks would not be counted as such.”

“Bronson is only 6.” Mary said “You said he had never done a jumping competition before.” “He hasn’t.” Fliss said, pondering “Maybe another time. This one we concentrate on you.”

“When you’re not growing so fast I’ll buy you brand new ones.” Fliss smiled, tapping in a message to the seller arranging to collect the items the following mornings. “So you have your DeNiro boots which we can polish, your short boots as well, you have a hat that will be ok, it should be velvet but for the time being it will do...so we need canary and white jodhs… a show shirt, a tie…shall we take a trip up to the Tack Shack tomorrow?”

“Yes please!” Mary smiled “I have some of my pocket money saved, I can put that towards it.” “Put what towards what?” Frank asked as he walked into the family room. He dropped a kiss to Fliss cheek and ruffled Mary’s hair, causing her to scowl up at him. “More horse riding crap?” he nodded to the screen of the laptop.

“Mary is going to do her first competition in 2 weeks so we’re kitting her out.” Fliss smiled. Frank looked at her, then to Mary and smiled.

“That so?”

Mary nodded “I’m gonna do 3 classes. 2 showing and one jumping. So we already sorted my jacket and Fliss is taking me to the Tack Shack tomorrow for the rest of it.” “Why what else do you need?” “Jodhpurs, a shirt and a tie.” Mary nodded reeling it off. “Oh and a new hat at some point but Fliss says the one that I have will do…”

“Why do you need another hat?” Frank asked.

“Well strictly speaking show hats should be velvet or suede.” Fliss shrugged “But for this level it won’t matter.”

“Can I wear the same tie for show-jumping and showing?” Mary asked.

“Hmmmm possibly. We can get 2.” Fliss said. “One that matches your tweed and then you can pick whatever you want colour wise for jumping. Have a look on the website, see if there’s anything you like.”

Mary grinned and took the lap top off Fliss who stood up, stretching slightly. She headed over to Frank, slipping her arms round his waist.

“She’s excited.” He stated, watching Mary as she tapped at the keyboard. His chest was warm at the utter delight on the young girl’s face as she was searching different coloured ties. “What sparked her wanting to do this?” “Someone at the yard. She overheard them talking and asked if she could go.” Fliss smiled “She wants to do the Winter League” “They run a league?” “Yeah.” Fliss smiled “5 competitions in total. It’ll be good for her, a bit of healthy competition. I already managed to grab her 2 jackets. Both second hand but no point shelling out loads when she’s gonna grow out of them by the end of the season. Tweeds cost a fortune.”

“How much are the hats she was talking about?” he asked, taking a swig of his beer.

“Erm, her size probably about eighty bucks, why?” “Just get her one.” He said gently, dropping his voice “She never asks for stuff like this so…” “You big softie.” Fliss smiled, standing on her toes to give him a kiss. “I love you.”

“Love you too. And thank you.” Frank said gently, bumping his nose against hers.

“What for?” Fliss frowned.

“For this.” He nodded to Mary “Doing stuff that makes her excited and happy.” “You don’t need to thank me.” Fliss looked at him, and then for the first time she noticed the look on his face. He was watching Mary, his eyes not quite as full of their usual sparkle. “Frankie, what’s wrong?”

He took a deep breath and looked at Mary “Hey Stack, have you spoken to Evelyn this week?”

“Not yet.” Mary said “I was gonna later, why?”

“Why don’t you give her a call before dinner?” he suggested “You can tell her about your competition.” “Ok.” Mary shrugged standing up “But if you wanted to talk in private you could just ask.” “Ok I’m asking, scoot.”

She stood up and looked at him “You forget I know you Frank.”

“Oh, trust me I don’t.” he shot after her as she laughed, climbing the stairs.

Fliss turned to Frank as he sat down on one of the stools by the breakfast bar. “Honey, what is it?”

“I spoke to Greg before.” He looked at her as she moved to stand between his legs. “He still hasn’t heard back from her father about the adoption.”

“Ok.” Fliss dropped her hands to his shoulders as his rest on her hips “That doesn’t mean he’s gonna cause an issue.”

“No, but Greg’s twitchy, I can tell. I mean if the asshole wasn’t bothered about Mary surely we would have heard by now. It’s been almost 8 weeks.” Frank wrinkled his nose. “Baby there’s nothing we can do about it.” Fliss soothed “Yeah, if he protests it’s gonna be a little more agro than we thought but…well, we’ll just have to face it when it happens, ok?” “I know I just…well I was hoping this would be done for Christmas, that’s all.” “It might be yet, it’s not even November. Is there anything Greg can do?”

“Take a cool box” she smiled

Frank chuckled “Of course I’ll come. Wouldn’t miss her first competition for the world.”

******

“What’s she checking now?” he looked over at Fliss, straightening himself up and reaching for the rag that was tucked in the back pocket of his dirty jeans. Fliss didn’t reply, she was too busy scanning Frank from head to toe, and making no attempt to even disguise the fact she was blatantly eyeing him up “Earth to Lissy…” “Yeah, sorry…what?” she asked, looking at him, biting her lip.

He snorted as he wiped his hands on the rag, shaking his head “And you call me a pervert.” Fliss shrugged “I told you, the whole dirty mechanic things does stuff to me.”

“He will do stuff to you give him half a chance.” He grinned and she smirked, arching an eyebrow.

“You’ll corrupt our son.” She said, placing her hands over his ears, where he was positioned in the baby sling at her chest. “Mind you, he’s probably already scarred for life after your antics last night…” “Didn’t hear you complaining.” Frank smirked, “Quite the opposite in fact.” Fliss bit her lip a the memory of a particularly good round of sex the night before, which had resulted in her on all fours in the middle of the mattress. Looking at Frank she shrugged and he snorted, closing the bonnet of the wagon “All set.” He nodded towards it. “Oil topped up, coolant and water levels good…”

“So you didn’t find anything to fix, like I told you that you wouldn’t.” “Hey, I just wanted to make sure it’s safe for my girls, it hasn’t been anywhere in a while.” He shrugged

“Joanne used it yesterday to go to the wholesalers for feed and shavings.” Fliss looked at him.

“Yeah, well…whatever, I make no apologies for wanting to check anyway.” He smiled, taking the kiss she offered.

Mary jumped down from the back of the wagon and reached up to lock the back door before she trotted round and handed Fliss the keys.

“You happy you got everything?” Frank looked at her “Seeing as that’s like the five-hundredth time you checked.” “Don’t exaggerate.” Mary rolled her eyes as Alex made a noise and the 3 of them looked at him before Mary pointed “see, even he thinks you’re an idiot.”

“Rude.” Frank grumbled. After one last check on Monty who was sparkling white (Although Fliss knew they’d end up giving him another quick clean up in the morning) they headed home and after a quick shower Frank lit the BBQ outside. The family enjoyed a good grill for dinner, before Fliss disappeared upstairs and came back with a wrapped packaged. Frank frowned, as she handed it to Mary.

“Everyone needs one of those for competitions.” She smiled, as Mary looked at her, taking it gently.

“What is it?”

“Open it and see!” Fliss rolled her eyes as she sat back down on the seat, glancing at Frank who had Alex against his chest, his head resting on his shoulder.

Mary tore the wrapping paper off and gasped as she held up the pink gilet top. It had the Sandybrook Stables logo embroidered on the front right hand breast but it was what was on the back that had caught her eye. She looked at it, then to Fliss and with a stunned smile turned it round so Frank could see. It was a motif of a horse jumping her fence with ‘Mary Adler’ arched over the top in gold, cursive writing and ‘Monte Carlo VI’- Monty’s show-name- underneath in the same typeface. Small diamantes were scattered around the entire design which caught the lights that were dotted around the garden and Frank’s face broke into a huge smile as Mary looked at him, then to Fliss.

“Sally has one of these for Jackson…” she whispered “I always wanted one, how did you know?”

“You’re welcome sweetheart.” “Well, come on…” Frank nodded to it, “Let’s see it on!”

“How much did that gilet set you back?” he asked and Fliss wrinkled her nose.

“I put t it through the account on company expenses as Sponsorship.” she shrugged. “I’m gonna order her a jacket and a hoody for Christmas.”

Frank chuckled “You spoil her.”

“So do you.” Fliss shrugged and pulled off her T-shirt and jeans before opening the door to the en-suite.

“But if it makes you feel better, I got a present for you too, sailor…” she grinned, shedding her underwear and beckoning for him to follow her.

Frank blinked, smirked and jumped up off the bed, the pair of them giggling as he dispensed of his boxers and backed his future wife into the shower, shutting the cubicle door behind him.

*****

“Hey!” She greeted him, giving him a quick kiss before she looked at Alex, her hand stroking his cheek.

“You all set?” Frank asked and Mary grinned.

“Yeah, we booked in, registered…I got my membership number...” she held up the laminated piece of paper with the digits 287 printed on “…and we got about 40 minutes until my first class.” “So we need to get him off the wagon, quick bush down and then you can get on to warm up.” Fliss said, nodding to the ramp. Frank moved the stroller out of the way and he and Fliss undid the latches, dropping it down as Mary hopped up and undid he partition. She brought Monty down and set about undoing his travel boots and his tail bandage, taking his tail out of the braid before she hopped up to get her brushes.

“She’s like a coiled spring.” Fliss grinned, looking at Frank who chuckled.

“Yeah, she doesn’t do anything by halves.” He smiled, looking around “It’s busy.” “First one of a season always is.” Fliss mused “There’s over 20 in her first class and 11 so far in her second. No idea about the jumping, I didn’t ask. I told her not to bother about it, as long as she enjoys herself…”

Frank smiled as Fliss gently touched his arm and set about helping Mary. 20 minutes later Monty was tacked up and Frank, from what little he knew about horses, had to admit they looked pretty smart. Her tweed was a dark green with a check pattern of brown and pinks, her show shirt was cream and the tie she was wearing was a green and pink striped one, matching perfectly. Fliss had braided Mary’s hair so it hung down her back and had secured it with a matching ribbon and as she jammed her new hat on she grinned at Frank.

“Looking good Stack” he smiled.

“Ok, ready?” Fliss asked.

Mary nodded and hopped up onto the small step at the back of the wagon, vaulting onto Monty, the pony simply standing still and observing his surroundings as if he did this every day.

Fliss joined him and they made their way down a little so they could watch. Monty was easily the smallest pony in the class and Frank frowned.

“He looks tiny.” “He is only 14’2 hands high.” Fliss shrugged “But this is a veteran class, for horses over 15. So they’ll look at how he moves, not how he looks next to the other horses.”

“Oh.” Franks shrugged, turning his attention to Mary, then the two women stood in the middle “Are they the judges?”

“One is, the one in the hat.” Fliss said “The other is a steward. She basically shouts the instructions out and helps the judge.” Frank watched as the woman instructed the group to trot on. They did a few laps around the ring before they set off into canter. Mary’s face was set in concentration as thy ride repeated the action on the opposite rein before they all lined up.

“Now they do their individual shows.” Fliss said, her eyes focussing on the action in the ring. “This is what Mary was practicing yesterday when you showed up.” There were two horses before it was Mary’s turn. She walked Monty out of the line-up and stood him, perfectly square in front of the judge. She chatted to the woman who walked around Monty to take a look at him, before Mary set off to do her show. Frank glanced at Fliss and smiled as his girl was beaming with pride as Mary completed her show, foot (or hoof) perfect before she halted, saluted to the judge and then gave Monty a huge pat. She glanced over at Fliss who gave her a thumbs up, smiling.

All in all it took about 30 minutes to work through the class, and once the last person had done they all set off in a walk as the judge was muttering something, her eyes flicking along the ponies. Eventually she nodded and the steward walked out, pointing to a large bay. A few people started clapping as the Bay moved inwards to take first place, and then next was a smaller chestnut and then she pointed at Mary.

“Well done!” Fliss beamed at Mary as she grinned, looking at her yellow rosette “3rd out of 20! Mary that’s amazing for your first go!”

Mary nodded, taking a deep breath, the tears filling her eyes “I’m so happy!” she spluttered and Frank gave a chuckle, looping his arm around her, giving Monty a pat.

“I’m really sorry…” A woman spoke shyly “But are you Fliss Gallagher.” “Yeah.” Fliss smiled “Erm, hi.” “My daughter…she’s a huge fan. She followed all of the US team but you and Charlotte DuJardin from Team GB really hooked her in the 2012s and she’s…well, she’s hiding over there because she wouldn’t come speak to you.” The woman bashfully admitted and Fliss felt her cheeks growing red.

“Oh…thanks.” She said, “Which one is she?”

“The blonde over there…”

“Be back in a sec.” She smiled at Frank, standing up.

Frank looked at Mary, his mouth falling open “What just happened?” “Fliss is a horse riding celebrity Frank.” Mary shrugged. “She was a huge star until her accident.”

“I feel kinda sorry for her in a way.” Mary sighed.

“How do you mean?” Frank looked at his niece.

“Well, imagine finally doing the thing you always dreamed of, what you worked your whole life towards only to have it cut short.” Mary spoke, her mouth full of burger “Half the show-jumping teams around the world have people in them that are in their sixties you know. Fliss was only 28.”

“Can I get an autograph?” he asked.

“Piss off.” Fliss snorted as he laughed, dropping a kiss to her cheek.

“Wait, that means she has to do that again?” Frank asked as Fliss clapped and cheered as Mary headed towards the gate to exit the field.

“Yeah, but not as many.” Fliss replied as she headed over to Mary.

Mary secured 4th place in her jumping, the smile on her face was infectious and Frank found himself beaming along with them as they walked back to the wagon.

Frank smiled as she settled on the sofa, undoing her shirt so she could feed him and he sat on the arm, looking down at her.

A little while later, Fliss finished up feeding Alex and peered down at him, the baby gazing at her, waving his eyes, his lips curling up into a smile and Fliss laughed.

“He’s smiling again.” She said.

“Sure it’s not wind?” Frank teased. “Err, no I just burped him.” Fliss said indignantly “They start smiling at 6 weeks, he’s smiling. I can tell.”

“So I know Mary did but did you enjoy it?” Frank asked as Fliss pulled a beer for them both out of the fridge.

Fliss grinned “Yeah, it would be kind of cool to expand into stuff like that.” She took a drink “I’ve actually been giving it a bit of thought in general.” “What, competitions?” Frank asked

“No, expanding.” Fliss swallowed a mouthful of drink “The land at the back has always been available to me to buy, the old Farmer said he would give it to me whenever I want, and it would add another 10 acres to the portfolio. I could grow the yard area, more stables, more grazing, hold events like that one today…” she trailed off, frowning as she noticed the look on Frank’s face. “What’s wrong? Don’t you think it’s a good idea?”

“No, I mean yeah, I do. We always talked about expanding your business.” He hesitated “I guess I didn’t realise it would be so soon.” “What do you mean?” Fliss looked at him. “I’ve been up and running now for over 3 years.”

“I mean after Alex being born.” Frank said, his eyes flicking to where his baby son was asleep in the basinet. “He’s barely 10 weeks old Liss, don’t you think you’d be taking on too much?” “I’d manage” she waved her hand “I could recruit more staff.”

“It’s not that I’m not happy.” Frank shook his head, and that was the truth. The fact she had such drive and want to build something better was amazing, he loved it in her, but he was struggling to find the words to voice what he was feeling about it. “Ok, I’m…just gonna come out and say this and I don’t want you to fly off the handle…4 weeks ago you were petrified of leaving Alex with your mom. You still don’t like being away from him now, and…” “Of course I don’t like it.” Fliss frowned “I’m breast feeding him, and-“ “Exactly.” Frank looked at her “So you take on this extra work, what are you going to do? You wanna put him in Creche, find a Childminder?”

Fliss shrugged a little “Mum said she would have him but I don’t want to put that on her, not every day. Maybe 2 days a week and then I don’t have to be at the yard all the time. Joanne runs things now and I can just…” Frank chuckled “I know you. Name me one day in your pregnancy that you didn’t pop in. You were teaching like almost until the day you dropped. And before you start I’m not saying that was a bad thing, far from it. You said yourself it kept you active and your brain engaged. I’m just saying there’s no way you’ll take a back seat. It’s bad enough trying to get you to stick to your Sundays off.” “I know.” Fliss nodded “But that’s something I’ll have to get stricter at.”

“Ok.” Frank took a deep breath “Whatever you say.”

Fliss frowned “Don’t do that.” “Do what?”

“Dismiss what I said.” “I wasn’t.” Frank shook his head.

“Yes you were, you just completely shrugged it off.” “No.” Frank said, his voice remaining calm “I said whatever you say. If you say that’s what you’re gonna do then…”

“Don’t you want me to do this or something?” Fliss asked and Frank took a deep sigh.

“You fix boats.” Fliss looked at him, a little sullenly “That’s physical…” “Not as much as I used to.” Frank shook his head “I’m based in the office a lot now, as you well know because you complain I don’t come home full of grease as much as I used to. We won’t mention the fact that I’m growing a little…how do I put this, softer round the edges now because of that, hence the weights in the garage”. He smiled, attempting to make a joke out of it as he could recognise only too well the look in her eye. It wasn’t full blown anger yet but if he didn’t cut the discussion off soon it was going to be. “Look...” he reached out and took her hand “We’re incredibly lucky. We’re in a position where you don’t need to rush back to work. My job pays well, your business brings you in a very decent turnover each month, we have savings…I just think that we should take advantage of that and you should take a few more months off, maybe look at going back in March, say. Take a full 6 off to be with him, enjoy being a mom.”

“Is that what you want me to do?” Fliss asked after a moments pause.

“For a shower.” She said simply “I need to get out of these jeans and this shirt.”

Frank gave a groan “Why do you do this?” “Do what?”

“Every time we have a slight difference in opinion on something you clam up.” He looked at her “Let’s talk this through, Liss. Don’t walk away.” “I’ve nothing else to say.” Fliss said, her voice ending in a little chuckle. “You’ve made your opinion on the matter very clear.” “Yeah, and now I’m waiting to hear yours.”

Fliss took a deep breath “I don’t wanna take 6 months off.”

“Ok.” Frank nodded “Then you don’t have to. I still think it’s too soon for you to be looking at expanding though.”

“I know what you think Frank, you told me.” Fliss shrugged “You don’t need to keep repeating yourself.” “I keep repeating myself because you seem to be completely and utterly dismissing what I’m saying.” Frank looked at her.

“For fucks sake Frank.” Fliss looked at him. “Stop talking to me like I’m one of the kids.”

“Well you’re doing a pretty good job of acting like one.” Frank looked at Fliss, his eyebrow raised as he felt his temper beginning to flare “And a petulant one at that.”

“You know, a lot of women would kill to be in the position to be able to do that.” Frank looked at her and she shrugged.

“So?” she frowned “With the greatest of respects, I don’t care. Yes, I’m lucky. I get that but I don’t want to Frank!” “And I’m not saying you have to! Jesus Christ!” Frank groaned “When did I, at any point in this discussion, ever say you have to stay at home huh? You tell me exactly when those words left my mouth….” Fliss looked at him, and blinked as her mouth closed and she swallowed. “See, you can’t because I didn’t say it!”

“Well, you might as well have.” She glared at him “You’re trying to control my decision about what I feel is right for me…”

“Well aren’t you?”

“God damnit Lissy!” Frank’s voice was loud as he stood up from his chair, “You’re downright infuriating at times. No, that’s not what I’m doing. At all. What I’m doing is trying to have a sensible discussion with you.” “Well I don’t want to discuss it anymore.” Fliss’s voice raised “So, like I said. I’m going for a shower. Or would you like to discuss that as well.” “Oh for fucks sake…” Frank groaned his hands rubbing his face as he let out a frustrated noise, shaking his head. “You know what, I give in. Do what you want. Shower, buy more land, work, don’t work…just…whatever.”

Fliss shot Frank a glare, and then a small noise from the basinet jerked them both out of the stare-down and Fliss headed over to pick him up. Turning she made for the door, baby in her arms.

“What are you doing?” Frank asked.

“Going for a shower, like I just said.”

“Well leave him with me.” Frank frowned, “What’s the point of taking him upstairs just to lay him in the crib whilst you shower?” “Because I want to take him with me.” Fliss looked at Frank. “I can leave the door open. I like him being there. Is it a problem?” Frank snorted, his hands on his hips as he looked at his feet “No problem.” He huffed out a little laugh as he raised his face to look at her “But you tell me you’re ready to go back to work when you can’t bear to be apart for the 10 minutes it takes you to shower.”

“Fuck you” Fliss seethed at him, drawing him out of his thoughts as Alex began to cry, clearly picking up the vibes in the room. Frank sighed, shaking his head as Fliss began to soothe him

“Lissy, just…”

But she didn’t stay to listen, instead she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, Alex’s little whimpers dying in his ears as she made her way up the stairs.

He hoped.

“Hey, everything ok?” Frank asked, opening the door and looking at Fliss as she was stood by the large window seat, gently rocking Alex as she tried to calm him.

“Yeah he’s grouchy.” She said, “I’ve fed him, he’s been changed…” “Want me to take him?” he offered and she shook her head.

"It’s fine Frank, I got him." "I mean, that is what you wanted isn’t it? Me, being a good little wifey-to-be and mummy, right?"

Frank blinked before he gave a groan “Really, do we have to do this now?” he sighed, shaking his head. “I never said that, at all.”

“What it sounded like to me.” “How would you know?” he looked at her “You were so focussed on your position that you didn’t listen to a damned word I said. Because if you had you would have understood my point of view instead of accusing me of trying to control you.” He took a deep breath “When are you going to get it into your head that I am not your shit bag ex?”

“I didn’t say that.” Fliss looked at him, shaking her head

“But you thought it.” Frank eyed her “I could see it on your face.”

“There you go again, presuming you know what I’m thinking.”

“Am I wrong?”

“How can you back me when you don’t agree with what I want?”

“Oh for fucks- just let me help will you?”

“Go back to bed Frank.” Fliss blazed it him in the dim light of the family room, her brown eyes angry “You have work in the morning, I don’t. Remember?”

#riding on #frank adler #frank adler x ofc #gifted fan fic #gifted

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duggardata · 4 years

Text

Jinger is Pregnant!

Get The Data Here.

On May 28th, 2020, Jinger (Duggar) + Jeremy Vuolo announced via People that their Firstborn, Felicity, is going to be a big sister. Apparently, they’re expecting another little girl. On a sadder note, the Vuolos also shared that Jinger suffered a miscarriage in November 2019, just prior to this pregnancy. They didn’t share the news at the time, so that’s another new data point for them.

After the jump, you’ll find my analysis of the two new data points—i.e., the 2019 Miscarriage and Ongoing 2020 Pregnancy. I’ll analyze—

For the Miscarriage... When did it happen? How far along was she, and what was her due date? When would the baby have been born?

For the Current Pregnancy... When is she due? When will she deliver?

For Both Pregnancies... How did their timing line up with the Predictor? What’s their impact on Jinger + Jeremy’s Procreative Pace and ESOQ?

Looking Ahead... When should we expect Vuolo #3?

The Miscarriage

For a recap of everything that’s known about Jinger’s 2019 Miscarriage, please see this Post. As explained fully in the Post, Duggar Data is using a Loss Date of November 26, 2019 for Jinger’s Miscarriage. As for Due Date... We know it was early in the pregnancy, but don’t know exactly how far along. Assuming a loss at 6 Weeks, which is the default assumption for cases like this, the baby’s Due Date would’ve been July 21, 2020. Neither date is confirmed, but I think those are decent estimates.

The Predictor would’ve expected Jinger + Jeremy to announce the pregnancy at 82 Days Along, since that is how far along they were when they announced their 1st Pregnancy. Thus, their Theoretical Pregnancy Announcement with Vuolo #2 would’ve been January 5, 2020, based an EDD of July 21, 2020.

Based on an Estimated Due Date of July 21, 2020, Predictor 2020 would have expected Jinger to give birth on July 20, 2020. (Felicity was 1 Day Early—and, the Predictor expects Vuolo #2 to be 1 Day Early, too.) Vuolo #2’s Theoretical DOB is July 20, 2020, had the miscarriage not happened. Doing the math, the Vuolos’ Theoretical Felicity–to–Child #2 Spacing would’ve been 732 Days.

The Current Pregnancy

Obviously, the 732–Day Spacing isn’t to be, since Jinger miscarried. Jinger is now pregnant again, though. Here’s what we know about her pregnancy...

According to People, Jinger was 15 Weeks Along on May 28, 2020—the date she and Jeremy announced. Taking that to mean that Jinger was in Week 15 (Week 15, Day 0—Week 15, Day 6), but not necessarily Exactly 15 Weeks, we can calculate that Jinger’s Due Date is between November 13–19. Since we don’t have anything else to go on, Duggar Data will simply use the mid–point, November 16, 2019, as Vuolo #2*’s Estimated Due Date.

Based on that EDD, plus Jinger’s history of delivering Felicity 1 Day Early, we can come up with a Projected DOB of November 15, 2020 and a Projected Miscarriage–to–Vuolo #2* Spacing of 355 Days. Neat.

Early, Late, or What?

Sort of a complicated question, mostly due to recent changes in the Predictor. When Felicity Nicole arrived, the Predictor set the Vuolos’ Procreative Pace at 621 Days—i.e., their Marriage–to–Felicity Spacing—because Felicity was their only data point and wasn’t a Honeymoon Baby. As a result, it expected Vuolo #2 to arrive 621 Days Later, on March 31, 2020. It expected the Vuolos would announce that pregnancy on September 16, 2019. But–for the miscarriage, it looks like Jinger + Jeremy would’ve had baby news in January 2020... Under the Old Predictor, they would’ve been late, but only by a few months.

It’s a very different story under Predictor 2020. Instead of just using Marriage–to–Felicity as the Vuolo’s Procreative Pace, Predictor 2020 assumed that they would slow down for the 2nd Child in a manner that’s typical for Duggars. Up until May 28, 2020, that slow–down—i.e., the 2nd Child Multiplier—was about 1.7015x... So, Vuolo #2 was expected to arrive 621 Days * 1.7015 after Lissy, on June 9, 2021. They were expected to announce the pregnancy November 24, 2020. So... Vuolo #2 and Vuolo #2* are actually early vs. Predictor 2020’s guess.

Finally, you may be curious: “How does Vuolo #2*’s Projected DOB compare with what Predictor 2020 would’ve expected, if they had announced Jinger’s miscarriage in November?” The Predictor would’ve set the Vuolo’s Procreative Pace at 732 Days—i.e., the Theoretical Felicity–to–Vuolo #2 Spacing—and the next Vuolo would’ve been expected 732 Days after the miscarriage. Doing the math, that corresponds with a DOB of November 28, 2021 and Baby News on May 14, 2021. They’re >1 Year Early vs. that estimate!

TL;DR They’re actually early, sort of.

Impact on Spacing / ESOQ

As discussed above, the Vuolos’ Projected Procreative Pace was 1 Child Every 1,057 Days, post–Felicity. This was based on their Marriage–to–Felicity Gap of 621 Days and the Duggar 2nd Child Multiplier (1.7015). At that pace, they had an ESOQ of 7 Children.

Let’s take each new data point in turn, starting with Jinger’s 2019 Miscarriage. The Miscarriage is treated as a 2nd Spacing. Thus, Jinger + Jeremy’s spacing would no longer be estimated using the 2nd Child Multiplier; instead, the 732–Day Projected Felicity–to–Vuolo #2 Spacing would’ve become their new pace. (That’s a huge acceleration vs. their prior 1057–Day pace, estimated using the 2nd Child Multiplier.) Their ESOQ jumps to 9 Children.

Now, we factor in the data from Vuolo #2*, who is expected to arrive 355 Days after Jinger’s Miscarriage. That 355–Day Spacing is treated as a 2nd Spacing, as well. Since it’s not a 1st Spacing, it averages with Jinger + Jeremy’s other, non–1st Spacings, and that average is their new Procreative Pace. Here, only one other spacing exists... The 732–Day one associated with the Miscarriage. So, the Vuolos’ Procreative Pace is now the average of 732 and 355 Days, or (732 + 355) / 2 = 544 Days. That’s another acceleration. Their ESOQ goes up accordingly to 12 Children.

Note that this radical shift is partially due to their long, long Marriage–to–Child #1 Spacing. For most couples, Child #1 arrives very, very quickly—so quickly that it’s not feasible to think that the couple could maintain that pace. For the Vuolos, that wasn’t the case. The 2nd Child Multiplier greatly underestimated their Procreative Pace because, unlike couples with Honeymoon Babies, they could—and did—match or beat that 1st Spacing. Despite this, I don’t think I will change how the 2nd Child Multiplier functions... I think it makes sense to treat every couple the same because, as we can see with the Vuolos, it'll very quickly and easily correct itself once that couple announces Pregnancy #2.

When to Expect Vuolo #3

Vuolo #3 is expected to arrive 544 Days after Vuolo #2*. If Vuolo #2* arrives as forecast on November 15, 2020, here’s what to expect for Vuolo #3—

Baby News November 9, 2021

Due Date May 13, 2022

Birthdate May 12, 2022

Finally... I’d like to point out that, until Jinger miscarried, Jinger + Jeremy were on–track to have Vuolo #2 almost exactly 2 Years after Felicity... Almost as if it were planned that way. Intriguing.

#jinger and jeremy #vuolo 2

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msjr0119 · 4 years

Text

Belated WIP/Six sentence Sunday (it’s Sunday in the Uk 🇬🇧)

Thanks for the tag on Wednesday @loveellamae

I’ve been very quiet recently due to personal issues, but I’ve tried catching up with all my series, so are posting the bits that I’ve done below. Thank you to everyone who has asked how I’m doing - love you all 💕

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*****

Cordonian Wags (can’t believe I haven’t posted since December 😱)

The Apples do not need anymore drama within the club- it looks as though Walker is arguing with his manager.

It’s such a shame that such a good match has come to this- I wonder what the argument is about? Walker has played well, but I’ve seen that he hasn’t been on the ball- get it?

Good pun- yes, even though he’s scored a hat trick his eyes have been scrutinising elsewhere around the stadium.

“Get back on the pitch, Walker!” Bertrand snapped towards Drake, he hated being stern towards him as he was his brother in law- but for some reason he was jeopardising the game.

“No!”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me Bertrand. Riley’s not well.... I saw her run off...she needs me.”

“She’s just been sick. This match is important... is she pregnant?”

“No! And Riley is more important to me than a stupid match....”

“Tell me what’s up with her, then we can determine what is more important!” She’s got cancer you fucking moron.

“Just take me off, I’ve done enough in this match....” Bertrand grabbed Drake by the collar- his grip was tight, not knowing what had got into him- he witnessed the team walk over attempting to calm the situation down.

“Get the fuck off of me Bertrand! I quit!”

******

One Temptation

Drake pressed the button in the elevator, taking him up to the highest floor. Walking towards the desk, the receptionist looked Drake up and down- wondering who he was and what his intentions were.

“I’m here to see Mr Rhys. Before you ask, no- I haven’t got an appointment.”

“Name?”

“Just tell him his worse nightmare is paying him a visit..” Panic was written across the woman’s face, leaning closer towards her desk- her hand hovered over the security button. “Just tell him, it’s Drake.”

Hello Mr Rhys, you have a visitor. His name is Drake.

Hanging up, she explained that Liam would be with them momentarily. Sitting down on the leather chair, Drake was unsure how Liam would react to seeing him- would he throw him out? Would he play mind games?

“Drake. It’s nice to see you.” Not. “Follow me into my office.” Drake followed his instructions, as the two men walked into the room. Liam poured them both a drink, however Drake politely rejected. Not knowing if Liam could have potentially added poison to it as revenge.

“What can I do for you? I never thought I’d see the day that you’d pay me a visit voluntarily.”

“Trust me, I don’t want to be here. I despise you. Have you seen or heard from Riley?”

“No. Why would I hear from her? She wanted to send me to prison for raping her.” Hearing that word, Drake grit his teeth- knowing that Liam was still in denial with his past actions.

“Well you did do that. Listen, you probably know her better than any of us. We need your help. She ran away, she left me in Texas.” Liam laughed in Drakes face, just picturing Riley riding off into the sunset wearing a cowboy hat.

“What did you do?” He asked Drake, assuming he was the reasoning behind her disappearance- from past experience he should know how her mind ticked. She did the same when he hurt her.

“I did nothing, my mom and aunt Leona spoke to her. Then she went cold towards me, and was gone. Do you know anywhere that she could have gone?” Liam now knew the reasoning behind her departure- he was the reason why. Instead of acting like a dick, he felt empathy towards everyone who was looking for her- guilt for his past actions.

“Bianca, this is Liam Rhys- a friend of Drakes.” Bianca recognised the name immediately- clearing her throat, she provided a fake posh accent.

“Hello, Sir. How may I help?”

“Has Drake arrived in Texas yet? His flatmate was just wondering but he’s broken his phone.”

“No, not yet. I assume he should be here shortly. I’ll get him to ring you once he arrives.”

“Okay, thank you Mrs Walker. I hope the prostitute he is in a relationship with doesn’t ruin your families reputation. Have a good day.”

******

Hold my girl

Freya stormed out of the ballroom, not knowing why. Both her and Drake had confessed their feelings towards each other in New York, they had both agreed to a long distance relationship. So, to see him so close to the mystery woman was like a stab to the heart.

What am I even doing here? She muttered to herself.

“Freya!” Ignoring him, she ran off to her room- not looking back as she wiped her tears. Liam has suggested going to speak to her instead along with Maxwell for moral support, whilst drake took the time to ‘chill out’ before he put his foot in his mouth again.

“Blossom?” Maxwell said softly, as the two men waited for her to answer the door. “Lady Freya, we just want to make sure that you are okay?”

Opening the door, the two of them had sorrow in their eyes- both pulling her towards them for a group hug.

“I’m sorry. Liam, stop calling me lady please. I’m not in your court anymore. I’m just an American nurse now. Not a suitor, or a Duchess, or a Cordonian.”

“Frey, you are a Cordonian even if not officially- you’re a Beaumont, always will be. That woman...”

“Don’t Max... I don’t want to hear it. I thought we had something good- was all the words he said to me a lie? Did he use me for sex? I don’t know what to think. It was Drake who suggested the long distance thing- insisting it would work because he loves me. Maybe he should have just stayed as a jerk!” The two men knew that Drake wouldn’t hurt her, Maxwell soon had a smile appear on his face- a mischievous look, that look made Liam’s mind work overtime, wondering what the lord was thinking.

“Freya, grab some things and meet me in my room. Slumber party time, Beaumont’s only- sorry, Liam. No invite for you.”

“I’m busy anyway, no need for an apology. Goodnight Freya, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Kissing her on the cheek, Maxwell mimicked the king’s actions before following him out of the room.

A couple of hours had passed, and there was no sign of Freya. Maxwell just assumed that she had fallen asleep- walking out of his room towards hers, he noticed her door was slightly ajar.

“Frey?” Scrutinising the room, his heart sunk as realisation hit him like a ton of bricks.

She’s gone.

*****

Return to New York

Liam shouted for the guard to allow his visitors into his study- turning to face them he was shocked as to why the familiar person was here, and not with Riley.

“Daniel. It’s nice to see you again.” Is he here visiting? Like on a vacation? These questions were soon knocked out of mind as he heard the tiny patter of footsteps enter the room. Libby? Lydia? Lily? Fuck what’s her name again? What’s she doing here?

“I wish I could say the same, your Majesty. I’m sorry to disturb you. Do you know where Riley is? I can’t seem to get in touch with her.”

“I’m not sure of her exact location, but I have an inkling of where that might be. I don’t mean to sound rude, but why is she here? Shouldn’t she be with her father?” Daniel sighed, not knowing how to explain the reason for the impromptu visit. Asking the guard to escort the young girl out- he didn’t want to upset her anymore than she was already.

“Lissy, she lost her father. When Riley ditched him at the wedding- he became drunk, he got into his car.... he had a crash, and didn’t survive. He was upset, humiliated that Riley couldn’t talk to him herself. Lissy has no one, she’s going to go into care if Riley....”

“If Riley what?” Liam interrupted, he had an inkling about what Daniel was going to say- but really hoped that he was incorrect.

*****

We Belong

My dearest Evie, I’m so sorry for all the pain I caused you. I always loved you, I was stupid to let a diamond like you go- all for the sake of nothing. I had hoped in time that you’d forgive me, I killed the man who tried to rape you- the man who you would cry in your sleep about. Stupidly I believed once you knew my true identity that we could get back together. I was part of a troupe, going against the crown- Bianca and Anton had reasons. I didn’t. I was just in it for the money- the money that I would have used to shower you with gifts, to pay for your dream wedding that we imagined. I didn’t mean to stab you, Bianca pushed you into me- id never hurt you again. I still don’t know if you survived or not, no one will inform me. I was an idiot. I can’t live without you knowing that it was always you- if you survived, I hope you find true happiness. Happiness that you deserve. Liam is in danger, Anton goes by a fake name known as Justin. He is Riley’s press secretary. I need you to tell someone, to protect my old friend and his family. I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done. But now I’ve told you this, I have no choice but to end my life. Toby xo

*****

The Greatest Show

“Ri?” Amber questioned, assuming she was hallucinating- seeing her friend stood in front of her. Liam held onto Riley’s waist, looking adorably towards her.

“Surprise!” Riley shouted enthusiastically, waving her hands in the air.

“I’m confused, what the hell are you doing here? Why are you so close together? Liam have you forgotten about Olivia?”

“I’ve no got amnesia, Amber. Olivia has been in a relationship with Leo, behind my back. I’m no angel, as I fell in love with Riley whilst I was supposed to be courting Liv.” Amber was trying to allow this information to sink in, trying to figure out what exactly was going to occur due to the burden being her friend.

“Well I’m happy to see you Ri, lets hope you don’t get stabbed...” Riley’s eyes widened, but Liam laughed knowing exactly what she was referring to- or who.

“I’ll see you both tomorrow? I’ve got one tall, dark, handsome commoner waiting for me...” Making her way out of the room, she quickly turned to the two of them. “Oh Ri, thanks for bringing Jackson- I’ve missed him so much, and he’s missed his Mom like you said on the note.” Before Riley could react, Amber had shot out of the door. But I didn’t bring Jackson.

Exiting the room, Amber couldn’t wait to get back to Drake- mainly to explain the new court gossip to him. Feeling arms go around her waist, she smiled- turning around, that smile soon disappeared in a flash.

“Thought you’d escape me, did you?

*****

Hold on (follow up)

“Brooks....” Feeling like this was a waste of time, Drake decided that the best option was to walk away, as she wasn’t responding. Jackson placed a hand onto his father’s shoulder, suggesting that Drake should leave. Listening to his son’s advise, he left in a swift motion- frustrated that he couldn’t persuade her to come out of her hovel and just talk.

“Aunt Ri?” Jackson said softly as he knocked on the door. Riley knew she was being stubborn whenever a visitor would knock on the door- but for some reason she could never ignore her children, or her friends children.

“Jackson.” Smiling at his auntie, he pulled her in for a hug. “What can I do for you?”

“Have a walk? Or just a little talk with me? We all miss you, and want to help you through it. Dad just wants to grieve with you. You could help each other?”

“You’re only twenty one Jackson, you should be out with your friends- enjoying life. Don’t take a minute for granted. Loving each day as if it’s your last.” Listening to her words, he knew what she was referring to. His heart sunk, the usual poised Queen stood in front of him absolutely broken. “I miss him so much Jackson, and I miss your mom too. Each day that goes by, doesn’t get any easier. I need to be strong for Ayah, Louis and Ellie but truth be told- they are so much stronger than I am.”

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easnuppa · 5 years

Text

The outlawˋs way

chapter 3, part 1

(I had to break up chapter three in two parts because it was simply too long for tumbler to post the whole thing, Enjoy reading))

Lissy had been out in the barn checking on her horse, giving the mare clean water and a little more hay, since it was getting colder, she was on her way back to the house to turn in for the night when she spotted a dark figure coming in on her property.

She had been living on the ranch alone for six months, sometimes deputy Jack came over with his wife to be to help out with the work, but they always came in the morning, never at night.

After what happened she was always carried either a pistol or a rifle, she had gotten pretty good at shooting, living on her own had been hard in the beginning, she had to start over, cows had been too much work for one single person she had reckoned, so she had settled with herding horses, taming them, branding them and selling them.

At first it didn’t give enough money to survive on, so she had to learn how to hunt, really gave her practise in shooting. She was no longer a proper city girl. People in town had told her to sell the ranch and move into town, but she could never live there, she needed to be out here, even if she was alone, she knew she could make it, she was stubborn enough, so far it had worked out.

The fear of the savages returning to finish her off and steal her horses were always lurking in the back of her head, that’s why she always carried a rifle when she was outside after dark.

Seeing the figure on the horse had spooked her at first, she had shouted a warning, raised her rifle and was about to shoot when the figure slid off the horse and crashed into the ground.

She ran over and squatted next to the man. She could easily see he was hurt, the man’s clothes were covered in blood, she had pulled the jacket aside and she saw the bullet wound in his stomach.

The man’s face was covered with a rag, she pulled it down and leaned over him, trying get him to open his eyes, because of the cold, she could easily see he was breathing.

He grunted and she pulled on his shoulder, talking to him, telling him that she was gonna help him the best she could, but he had to get up on his feet, she wasn’t strong enough to pull him up by herself, he opened his eyes, his met hers for a short moment before they rolled back once again, he mumbled something about being dead and angels.

She shook his shoulder again, and his eyes flew open again, she repeated that he had to get up on his feet, but she was gonna help him. This time he staggered to his feet and leaned heavily onto her, she almost crumbled under his weight, he was taller than her, lean built from what she could feel wrapping her arm around his waist.

She guided him into the barn, her mare looked up as they stumbled inside, her mare bucked hard from the stranger and the smell of blood. She helped him down onto the hay in a free box, then she turned to light a lantern and put it next to her, she told him that she had to undress him to tend to his wounds, this time he sounded like he was conscious, he told her to leave it and that he was dying.

She didn’t bother to listen, he didn’t seem that old, only a couple of years older than her, and he looked healthy enough to pull through, if not the wounds would get infected, she thought darkly.

She managed to pull off his jacket after some struggling, she dropped the wet jacket on the floor, before she looked back down at him, she had been right, he was lean built, but his shoulders where wide and strong, for some reason her hands started shaking as she started on the buttons in his shirt.

When it was open, she pushed it over his shoulders, the shirt landed upon the jacket, it was ruined from all the blood anyway.

She studied the wound on his shoulder, thank god it was only a graze wound, but the wound in his stomach was what concerned her, she grabbed the knife that he had sheathed to his trousers, she held the blade over the flame in the lantern, then she poked and prodded it into the wound, warm fresh blood started trickling from the wound, but she managed to fish it out and it landed on the floor with a dull thud.

She looked at the man’s face, he was pale and she could spot prickles of sweat on his forehead, she leaned over and grabbed his shirt and pressed it into the wound, before she ran back outside, she needed to find some of the lose gunpowder to sterilise the wound and burn the wound so the bleeding would stop.

She knew where her father had stashed it away, she went to the kitchen counter and found what she was looking for, on the way back she grabbed the man’s horse and pulled it inside the barn and locked it into one of the empty boxes, the wind was howling outside now.

She sat back down next to the man and poured some of the gunpowder into the wound and lit it on fire, for a second the man opened his eyes, it was probably a reaction to the pain because he was out cold again only seconds later.

She pulled one of the horse blankets over him to shield him from the cold and wiped his forehead. She pushed his to long brown hair away from his face, he almost looked peaceful, if it weren’t for his shallow breaths, she would think he was dead.

She figured he would be sleeping for a while, so she got up to her feet and tended to his horse, gave it hay and water. Before she returned to her house, she removed his gun belt and brought the guns into the house, at least now he was unarmed and she was on guard, she would shoot him if he came to and tried to hurt her.

She slipped into her warm house and bolted the door shut before she undressed and climbed into the warm bed, she placed the worn gun belt next to her. She pulled out one of the pistols and let her hands glide over the cold metal, she opened it and saw it was only two bullets left in it, the pistol was much heavier than the one she owned, she put it back and pulled the blanket up under her chin and closed her eyes, her last thoughts before she fell asleep was on the stranger out in the barn.

The first day went like any normal day for Lissy, only thing from her daily routine was that she checked up on the stranger, dug out some of her brothers’ old clothes, she recon they had been the same size as the stranger from what she could remember.

After she let the horses out, she spotted his saddlebags, she was so curious to who the stranger might be, she stood there for a while and looked at him, he had not moved at all, but he was breathing, she squatted down next to the saddlebags and opened it slowly, careful not to make a sound.

She flipped the leather hatch open and looked down, there was not much in it, she rummaged around a bit, but found nothing that could give her a clue to who he was. She knew he was a gunman, no ordinary ranch worker had guns like him, she looked over to the other sets of saddlebags that the man had been carrying, she leaned over and grabbed them, they were a lot heavier.

She opened one of the hatches and peaked inside, she gasped, it was full of money and bank bonds. Why where he carrying so much money? Was it his? Had he stolen it? Had he been robbing a bank and got shot when he tried to escape? Where she saving a criminal?

She swiftly closed the satchel, she had to hide the saddlebags, make sure he couldn’t find it, so that he wouldn’t hurt her or kill her as soon as he woke up. She made her way out of the barn and into her house where she hid the saddlebags under her parents’ beds. There were a lose floorboard there, she opened it and stuffed it down into the ground. It was a tight fit, but she managed after a while.

The second day started out as usual, she ate her breakfast, cleaned the house and let the horses out. When she had gotten the last horse out, she could spot a wagon enter her land, she grabbed her rifle and cocked it and held it up, but as soon as she recognized the two woman and the boy from back water village, she lowered her weapon.

She gave the oldest woman a nod.

"I didn’t expect you guys up here until the end of the week?"

She had been trading with the people of black river for about three months now, they gave her supplies, lent a helping hand and whatever else she needed, and she paid with tamed strong horses.

The two woman and the young boy jumped down, the woman named Michonne went to the back of the wagon and started to unload it, potatoes, milk, bread and other goodies. The other woman Sasha walked up to her while the two others started carrying the supplies into her house.

"Morgan didn’t wanna take any chances, we might not be able to pull the wagon up by the end of the week because of the snow," Lissy nodded and gave her a soft smile.

"Well I do appreciate it, tell Morgan that I will deliver the horses we agreed on as soon as they are ready, I just let them out, take a look at them and tell Morgan that they are healthy and promising."

Sasha smiled widely at her and directed her gaze over at the horses rolling in the fresh snow.

She nodded.

"They look good, Morgan and the others will be very pleased."

Michonne and Noah had joined them by the fence and where studying the animals.

"I must say I was sceptical to the arrangement when you first came to us, not many white folks of Black Stone want anything to do with us in Black river, but looks like you are delivering what you promised,"

Lissy knew about the hostility these people had against the people of Black Stone, to some length she kind of agreed with them.

"Well I have never had any quarrels with you, besides I’m not really a part of Black Stone, I like it out here, the distance is good. And I would like to continue our arrangement," Michonne nodded and they all climbed up on the wagon and took their leave.

She sighed, thank god for the buffalo hunters of Black river.

She walked over to the barn to much out of the boxes, she stomped off the snow clinging to her winter boots, she glanced over to the stranger, who had started to stir a little, oh, he is finally waking up she thought.

She sat down next to him and filled a tin cup with water from a pitcher she had carried in last night.

"Mr. you need to drink a little, you will feel better," she said, he opened his eyes and looked straight at her, it was the most unbelievable blue eyes she had ever seen, he had gorgeous eyes, like the sky.

"Who are ya and where am I?" he said, his voice was gruffy and cracked.

She held the tin cup up against his lips and he gulped down the liquid.

"I’m Lissybeth, most people just calls me Lissy, and you’re on my ranch, you rode in two nights ago, you were shot, lost a lot of blood, you passed out and have been sleeping the past two days," she tried to give him a reassuring calming smile, but it didn’t look like it worked because he looked at her like she was insane.

"I took care of your wounds, and from what I can see, you don’t have an infection."

The man lifted the blanket and looked down his bare upper body.

"where’s my clothes?" He was now struggling with getting up to a sitting position, she grabbed his shoulders to help, but he pushed her off.

"Your shirt and jacket was soaked with blood, I brought some clothes, that might fit you," she leaned over and grabbed the trousers, shirt and underwear.

"You must be hungry, I’ll go get you something to eat, while you get dressed."

She got to her feet and walked out, before he could object any further.

Daryl threw away the blanket as soon as the woman had left and changed into the clothes she had brought. They fit almost perfectly, just a little tight around his upper arms. He looked the clothes over, it was probably her husbands.

He eyed his saddlebags laying on the floor near one of the boxes, he slowly got up to his feet, still a bit dizzy and walked over to it, he pulled it up and went through it, damn, wrong saddlebags, had he lost the money on his way out here? If he had, he was in deep shit.

He pulled his hands through his hair, just then the barn door creaked open and the little woman walked in with a bowl full of steaming hot stew, the heavenly smell filled his nostrils, she pointed to where he had been laying and he walked over and slowly slid back down onto the floor, she sat down next to him and handed him the bowl, he stirred the spoon around the thick stew to cool it off.

"I’m glad the clothes fit you," she said, her voice seemed familiar in a weird way, almost soothing.

He shovelled the food into his mouth and chewed, it was so good he could have moaned.

"Yeah, tell yer husband thanks," he grumbled between mouthfuls, she giggled slightly, and he looked at her quizzically with a cocked brow.

"I’m not married, used to be my brothers’ clothes," she said and he could see her smile fade on her soft red lips.

"Well tell him thanks then," he didn’t get why it mattered who the clothes belonged too, they were on his body now.

"I can’t, they’re dead," she whispered, he looked up at her again, chewed and slowly swallowed.

Wait a minute, her brothers where dead? She wasn’t married, she owned the ranch, things weren’t exactly adding up here.

@of-storms-and-sadness , @twdeadfanfic

#daryl dixon fanfiction #daryl dixon fanfic #the walking dead daryl #daryl dixon #Daryl/female oc #hurt/comfort #wild west #angst #fluff/smut

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bakudekuficlibrary · 6 years

Text

BakuDeku: Platonic/Pre-Relationship

2 Series. 62 Works.

intricate rituals by Spineless ( T | 1,464 | 1/1 )

Bakugou and Midoriya clean up after their fight. Sometimes asking for help is all you have.

i've got your number by blossomshed ( T | 3,518 | 1/? )

Every time he deletes whatsapp it shows back up on his phone, so Bakugou might as well read the messages from his idiot 'friends'.

Alternatively: a picture is worth a thousand words. So is your chat history.

And In His Eyes, A Galaxy by Penkindisbestspecibus ( M | 82,443+| 18/? )

Midoriya Inko attracts small objects. Midoriya Hisashi breathes fire.

Midoriya Izuku is full of stars.

[Graphic Depictions of Violence]

Skip the charades by ficklish ( G | 1,314 | 1/1 )

In the aftermath of an all out war between the heroes and the villain association, Izuku’s badly injured. And Katsuki’s fucking furious.

Hear Me by my_name_is_Levi ( G | 22,419 | 5/5 )

It wasn’t as if nightmares were uncommon for the freshman class of Yuuei. They’d seen plenty of things, heard and felt and witnessed enough travesty in their lives to last them a lifetime. But Midoriya Izuku was screaming, and no one, not even Bakugo Katsuki could ignore it.

These Days Past by nivo ( T | 2,136 | 1/1 )

He's had some weird dreams in his life thanks to what his mom calls a 'highly creative mind' — known to the rest of the world, courtesy of Kacchan, as his 'freaky nerdiness' — but this one is totally kicking his ass.

[Series] Ocean's Boy by Cue2You2 ( G | 52,673+ | 2 Works | On Hiatus )

Impressions by gemteddy ( T | 5,430+ | 4/? )

Sometimes Class 1-A forgets how long Midoriya and Bakugou have really known each other. Sometimes they get reminders.

put a bullet (where I should've put a helmet) by canlah ( T | 10,364 | 3/3 )

It isn't until Izuku reaches his breaking point that he realises he doesn't have to carry this pain by himself.

[Graphic Depictions of Violence]

numb by BlackSclera ( T | 2,387 | 1/1 )

“What do you think you’re doing, Deku?” If Izuku didn’t know better, Kacchan actually sounded a little worried.

“Jumping off the roof.”

Bakugou Katsuki Finally Gets His Spiky Head Out of His Ass by TrashcanGod ( T | 876 | 1/1 )

It seems like Katsuki is ready to try playing nice, and a resurrected childhood film is the perfect conversation starter.

The Start of a Beautiful... Something by Kouen_chan ( T | 1,351 | 1/1 )

As long as Katsuki remembered, there was always that one house in the neighborhood that seemed empty, but every once in a while, there would be movement visible through a window. Occasionally, kids in the neighborhood would dare each other to knock on the door or something. He never expected to meet the occupant who's shadow never changed. Until one day, he did.

In which one Bakugou Katsuki meets and (sort of) befriends a recluse with a bunch of secrets and an unknown mission.

The School Adventures of Bunny Izuku by Lunar_Muffin ( T | 5,256+ | 6/? )

When Bakugou Katsuki’s quirk manifested, everyone told him how amazing it was and how he would make a great hero. And when the other kids started asking why he was still hanging out with quirkless Izuku, he felt a bit self-conscious. But hell would freeze over before he would abandon his best friend because some side characters looked down on him. And when Izuku’s quirk finally showed itself, he looked all those assholes in the eyes with a big, shit-eating grin on his face. They would become the best heroes ever, together.

Or, Izuku suddenly grows bunny ears of the lop variety complete with a tail. Follow Katsuki and him through snapshots of their elementary and middle school experiences.

Paradoxical Alternative by ThatPersonWhoExists ( G | 17,204+ | 7/? )

❛Izuku was dead in this universe.

Or at least to everyone in his surroundings, to Katsuki Bakugou, Izuku Midoriya was well-- however he couldn't quite say alive as the boy really wasn't.❜❜

Ghost!Deku AU.

[Major Character Death]

Blowing Up The Closet Door by underoriginal ( G | 2,391 | 1/1 )

Kacchan tells the world she's a girl. It goes better than expected.

Written for a kinkmeme prompt.

Candied Ginger by cavicanem ( T | 2,106 | 1/1 )

bakugou's pen explodes. it goes about as well as you'd think.

Katsuki Burns by thepensword ( G | 1,100 | 1/1 )

Katsuki is always burning.

(“Hi!” says Izuku. He’s smiling the brightest smile Katsuki’s ever seen. It’s radiant, like the sun. Katsuki hates it. Katsuki loves it.)

Katsuki Bakugou watches Midoriya Izuku and burns and burns and burns.

that never stopped you before by TayTei ( G | 3,990 | 1/1 )

A week has passed since Izuku was rescued from the Villain Alliance

A week has passed since he'd last been back at school

and a week has passed since he learned he is, yet again,

Quirkless

Bakugou Brothers by StrangerStars ( T | 4,841+| 3/15 )

In which Izuku was raised by the Bakugous.

What is Burned and Broken Heals by GuardianLioness ( T | 2,516 | 2/2 )

Neither Bakugou nor Midoriya expect injury to heal old wounds. [Two-shot]

Just Watch Him by Celestialgunfireopera ( G | 1,520 | 1/1 )

Quirkless was not useless, or so Katsuki seemed to believe.

when you reach the top, you have to stop by Seito ( T | 1,937 | 1/1 )

(the next step up is the sky)

‘Oh, you don't have much magic, do you? Practically a Squib.‘

‘I have enough!’ Izuku thought back. He did! He must! He had his Hogwarts Letter, carefully framed back home. He wouldn't be here if he didn't have enough!

‘Do you?’ the Sorting Hat asked.

it's your power by bakubros ( T | 2,846 | 1/1 )

Bakugou reminds Midoriya about what it means to be a hero.

The Life Taking View by estupidaval ( M | 1,362 | 1/1 )

Sometimes life is painful, and sometimes it's beautiful. Breathtakingly so.

Maybe even life taking.

An Open Discussion by artemancy ( T | 3,478 | 1/1 )

After the attack on USJ, Bakugo takes Izuku home and they talk about their feelings like mature heroes to be.

Late Night Talks by dragonroses ( T | 1,241 | 1/1 )

Katsuki can't sleep due to witnessing the horrifying events that took place earlier that day. His late night thoughts lead him to the common room where he finds an equally insomniac Izuku

Katsudeku week day 2: Childhood & Confession by Justaperson1718 ( G | 1,855 | 1/1 )

Part 2 of Katsudeku week prompts

Change Isn't Always Bad by TaylorRose16 ( T | 1,825 | 1/1 )

It was in that moment that Katsuki seemed to realize just how much had changed. And he also realized that he didn’t seem to mind it.

“Deku,” he declared. It wasn’t the name of a useless little boy anymore, but the name of a Hero. “Kick his ass.”

His Back by bluelove22 ( T | 3,365 | 1/1 )

Or alternatively titled "5 times Deku thinks Kacchan might actually care about him". *cross-posted from fanfiction.net*

like a boss by Lissy ( T | 1,796 | 1/1 )

"Kaminari rolls his eyes and wishes more than anything that Recovery Girl could just heal the whining drama queen. But, nooooo, he doesn’t have enough stamina, and it’s just the flu, he’ll be fine recovering on his own. Easy for her to say - she doesn’t have to deal with him!"

Or, Katsuki is a whiny bitch when he's sick, and Izuku pulls a Mitsuki and handles him.

New Friends & Wasabi Pancakes by rainbowtourmaline ( T | 1,107 | 1/1 )

Katsuki fucking Bakugou and Izuku fucking Midoriya were now fucking friends again.

Don’t fucking ask Katsuki how it happened because fuck if he knows.

“Happy birthday Kacchan!” but he was starting to regret the decision of letting Izuku go from useless pebble in the road to his kind-of-sort-of friend when the other dude just waltzed into his room at 7:00 fucking AM in the morning, his smile shining as brightly as the God damn sun that was burning Katsuki’s retinas right now because Izuku just had to fling the curtains open!

Honestly, what kind of sick torture was this?!

Is Friendship, Probably by DeKatsu ( G | 824 | 1/1 )

The class notices that Bakugou and Midoriya share some of the same habits.

I'm Fine! Nothing's wrong... by narikopathfinder ( T | 1,635 | 1/1 )

Ever since they were children Deku had always been able to tell when he had bad dreams. It was weird, somehow Deku was always the first to know. Then his dreams stopped bothering him, they drifted apart. But after being kidnapped, the nightmares returned.

Everything was just fine...

Learn to Levitate (With Just A Little Help) by Heronfem ( T | 2,201 | 1/1)

Midoriya Izuku tries very hard to forget that he too had a run in with the Sludge villain. But trauma really doesn't work like that.

sometimes I trip over our history by yunnings (ladylolli) ( T | 1,205 | 1/1 )

The Worst Wonder Duo. What a load of bull for endorsing dependency. Bakugou hates it, but he hates losing more. “Save your pep talk,” Bakugou growls, but his eyes threaten Midoriya not to screw both of them up. Or you’ll die twice, Deku.

I can't stay by 13th ( G | 5,964 | 1/1 )

Kids, just being kids.

After Action by ruff_ethereal ( T | 2,971 | 1/1 )

Detective Bakugo finds his partner, Detective Midoriya, working well into the early morning again, and decides to step in before she overworks herself.

A Mile a Minute by gourdier ( G | 1,433 | 1/1 )

A sparring match might just be the thing that brings them closer together. A Bakudeku Secret Santa for Merle.

[Series] Beat of a butterfly's wing by theladystrikesagain ( Not Rated | 26,278+ | 6 Works | WIP )

"Adversity makes us stronger" is a lie people tell themselves to make their lives easier to stomach, Izuku thinks. Because if they didn't, and if they acknowledged that the life they suffered through was just another cog in the messed up machine known as life, any rational person would lose their mind.

All adversity does is make you brittle, and hard, and, when pushed in a certain way, oh-so-easy to break.

Surprise! by Earl_White_of_Mornings ( Not Rated | 890 | 1/1 )

Deku surprises Katsuki with a visit after two years.

This is literally just a corny little reconnection fic. I don't know if it will get a second part but if it does it will be a series of one-shots.

Photosynthetic by PigeonsAndPlants ( T | 3,865+ | 3/? )

If one was to describe Midoriya Izuku, a word most likely used would be “green.” Everything about him is green. Dark green hair that softly shines in the sunlight, emerald green eyes that glow with an intelligence not usual for a four year old.

After his quirk manifested, “green” became necessary for describing Midoriya Izuku

Cold Solitude by ukiinas ( G | 693 | 1/1 )

He thought of the time they’d spent together when they were kids, laughing and holding hands like nothing else mattered in the world. Now Izuku’s hands were tattered and grotesque, and couldn’t even reach him anymore.

Progress, or something. by The_Potatoe ( T | 2,000 | 1/1 )

Izuku has a bad dream.

Katsuki helps.

Teach Me How to PokeGo by tsunayoshi ( T | 780 | 1/1 )

"I DONT KNOW HOW TO USE THIS APP WHERE IS THE RULE BOOK I SEE YOU CATCHING POKEMON OVER THERE COME TEACH ME I WANNA BE A TRAINER" pokemon go au [credit to ceastaar @tumblr/twitter]

In which Kacchan and Deku first encounter each other and bond (sort of) over Pokemon GO.

I lost the game. by SilviusPrime ( T | 2,541 | 1/1 )

Class 2-A is tired of Katsuki winning every competition whether it be small or large. Overhearing his friends talking about it, Izuku comes up with the perfect idea to get back at Kacchan for himself AND his classmates.

By A Thread by ploThief ( T | 1,189 | 1/1 )

Two new strings are formed, crafted and appearing close in what humans call time. One is a burnt orange. The other, dark green. They move parallel to one another, playfully weaving and stitching a picture of friendship.

[ Graphic Depictions of Violence ]

Over Due by Lillabelle ( G | 1,180 | 1/1 )

It's been years after high school ended, and Bakugou's finally ready to apologize. Even if Midoriya doesn't hold their past against him.

Rocky Roads and Movie Nights by AshesStarsAndRedStringsOfFate ( T | 1,471 | 1/1 )

After everything that has happened between them, can Katsuki and Deku ever reconcile their friendship? Maybe, with the help of the rest of Class 1-A. Birthday fic for a friend! Love you, Taba!! Rated for Bakugou's mouth (I mean, there's not that much, but better to be safe, right?)

That Day in the Forest by luchijelly ( G | 1,334 | 1/1 )

"I’ll catch up to you someday Kacchan. I know I will!"

Maybe by sunsetsundae ( T | 1,453 | 1/1 )

Maybe Katsuki liked pushing Izuku around. Maybe he liked to be forceful and rude. Or maybe he was just having a really, really hard time coming to terms with his feelings.

Snapshots by The_Potatoe ( T | 1,700 | 1/1 )

Izuku and Katsuki, over the years.

That one time midoriya got to make some kids happy by Alphanon ( Not Rated | 1,121 | 1/1 )

Bakugou may have mentioned that his friend was a hero, and may have said that he was quirkless. Now Midoriya is stuck joining him in volunteering to care for a bunch of 5 year olds.

Summer Days When We Were Young by AgentHoot ( G | 1,669 | 1/1 )

Bakugou hits Midoriya's favorite lucky ball over the school fence. Though dangers may lurk beyond, Bakugou braves them to get it back.

AKA the childhood best friends drabble we deserve in canon.

Walking by ToastTSA ( G | 937 | 1/1 )

For the first time in forever, they walk home together.

sprite by sora_san89 ( T | 941 | 1/1 )

A short story of Deku, Kacchan, and a handful of flowers.

(BakuDeku Positivity Week - Day 02: flowers)

Safe and Sound by soliloquist ( G | 470 | 1/1 )

Izuku has always been the one to notice the cracks in his smile, the tears in his reckless eyes, and the hurt in his words. And although he’s no hero, he’ll bandage his scraped knees and hold him close.

Or, the time Katsuki gets injured and his best friend is there to pick up the pieces.

#BakuDeku #KatsuDeku #BNHA #bkdkfl masterlist #Masterlist #t:s #t:sh #t:bullying #t:ptsd #w:mcd #rs:platonic #rs:pre #curator hatsu #long post

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unpickingthetangles · 6 years

Text

Influence Tag Game

I was tagged by the wonderful @fatal-blow!! Thank you so much for giving me a platform to be this pretentious! I am deeply ashamed of myself, ahaha!!! This turned out SOOOO LONG so I am going to link to the summary of Hadrian.

Rules: Give a short summary of your WIP, name seven sources of influence on your story, and tag seven people.

Hadrian the Scholar summary.

There are probably a billion mistakes in this. I didn’t proofread it because I am running late for work. FORGIVE ME.

1. When I was 18 I got an amazing opportunity to stay with my sister in Beijing for over four months. I didn’t speak a word of Chinese or Mandarin and I was still a ridiculous teenager. I had been sheltered as a kid; the farthest I had gone outside of the US was to Niagara Falls (which doesn’t really count, right?) I went from a spacious farmhouse to an apartment no bigger than a college dorm room that I shared with my sister, my brother-in-law, and my five year old nephew. I was able to experience another culture and a people so foreign to me that I had to adjust my whole way of thinking. Best part, it was at a very influential age, so many of these new feelings stuck to me like glue. I remember going to a wedding, walking through the city at 2am, climbing parts of the Great Wall that hadn’t been reconstructed.

Oh, let me tell you the moment that really got to me. We were stay at this little freckle of a village, very small, very old. It was settled in a green valley and the Great Wall wrapped around the hills everywhere you look. My sister and I followed this trail into the mountains and came to the wall, where local men were working on keeping it standing. I sat down with a very old man and he gave me a popsicle, drew a map of the US in the loose dirt, and gestured to it. He was asking “where are you from”. And somehow over about a half an hour, I talked to this old man without speech, sharing a moment of connection over a popsicle, with this grand old structure that will outlive us both in the background. This had to be one of the most profound moments of my life, really. It was my sister (for all her many, many faults) that suggested that I write. She liked the way I used language and the way I saw Beijing. That trip has been extremely influential to me.

That’s the wall on the mountain back there!

2. I also believe the concept of ‘J.K. Rowling Revisionism’ has played a huge part in how the story’s characters have greatly evolved. Despite how you might feel on the subject, I have taken the concept of it and used it to be more inclusive with my characters. I remember seeing a post on Tumblr years ago that was said, ‘What? Did Dumbledore have to be staking around Hogwarts in a rainbow flag for you? Did he need to be playing house music and raving the whole time?’ and it listed about a dozen more egregious gay stereotypes. As a queer person I was so insulted by that. It clicked for me that ‘it takes a single throwaway line to help identify a character as (x)’. I didn’t want to play it safe anymore. I didn’t want to write ‘subtext’ and instead was compelled to make it fully ‘text’. If I wanted to read about queer people in love, I should have the wherewithal to write it myself. But I also had to think of other people who needed representation as well. I know this is more of a popular discussion today, but five years ago it was rather new, and it changed the way I write.

(Let me be specific here: Lissy and I have had numerous conversations about Rowling Revisionism and if it was (broadly considering) ‘Fair’ to criticize her for it. It is an extremely complex conversation concerning the long-lasting effects of representation or lack thereof, in my opinion. That is why I am using the word ‘concept’ here, as in it should be more of a literary discussion had by creators and not a polarizing debate set in simple black and white tones. (looking forward to the many anons I get about how it isn’t black and white.))

3. It is my belief that strong, believable characters far outweigh the plot or premise of a story. While the latter two are important, it is the characters that the reader is going to attach themselves to. A writer must introduce the idea of them as complex people in the world to get that special relationship the reader has with specific characters. The first thing I ask when I hand off my book to a beta is, “Who is your favorite character?” and I’ve gotten a different answer every time. That is a phenomenal thing! I am proud of that. When you look around fandoms, the fans are not drooling over the plots, they are defending characters and championing their causes.

With that being said, I’d say a major influence is in characters in media that made me rethink how I should approach writing characters. One of those would be the movie 12 Angry Men. If you haven’t watched it yet, I highly recommend it. This movie changed my goddamn life. Every single time I watch this movie, I find something new, something I missed the last 20 times I watched it. Hell, I watched it with Lissy once and she pointed out something so huge that I missed it. (ps. Still mad about that baby. How dare you be so clever?)

So how did that happen in a single-room mystery with 12 characters, none of which have names (save two at the very, very end) hit me so hard? How did this movie sink into me so deeply when it is mostly dialogue? I asked myself this over and over again. The answer is in the characters! At 1:10 into the film you are given a wide shot of the whole cast, a judge lazily prattling off his lines. Then the camera pans over the 12 Jurors: you see who is fidgeting, who is paying attention. Juror #5 looks off reflective of his decision to condemn a man to death, Juror #3 looks angry – why is he so angry? These are details that breathe an ever-expanding life into their characters. This whole cast is amazing, with Henry Fonda as #8 and Lee J. Cobb as #3. You know everything you need to know about them, without much backstory at all, without any grand declarations of their motivations. Hugely influential to me. It taught me that every character I write needs a strong introduction. If they are a weasel, they should be introduced as a weasel. If they are goodhearted, show an act of kindness. Hell, the first thing Hadrian does is show up at a funeral to mock the corpse. When he is introduced to Douglas’ character, he is dressed as a trickster god for a party. That tells you so much about him without putting exacting words to it.

4. While I had the meat of Hadrian the Scholar already planned out, it wasn’t until I read the works of KJ Charles that I really felt that I could be a writer and do it well. See, I’ve always been fond of those beautiful illusions like “my love for him was like a vein of gold in marble” (that’s from A Gentlemen’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, by-in-by). But I had no talent to write such pretty pretty words, not unless I work very hard at it, and even then it’s clumsy. KJ Charles doesn’t write in such a way. But what she does have is fantastic characters that react to situations in believable ways. She won’t be caught writing a character that doesn’t have his share of faults. As much as I loved A Gentle’s Guide because it is written in a style that I admire and love, it is Seditious Affair by KJ Charles that I reread the most. That’s because when I finished that book, I found that I missed the characters. It is also incidentally about two people who should be enemies because of their politics, yet they fall in love and fight for their partner’s beliefs, because they are important to their love. This basically sums it up. It really helped me think about Hadrian and Douglas’ relationship. Bless this author, seriously.

5. Waking Life is an indie film that is an interesting watch, though to me it hasn’t aged very well. However, it is this one brief segment that stuck with me most. Here is the full transcript:

Creation seems to come out of imperfection. It seems to come out of a striving and a frustration. And this is where I think language came from. I mean, it came from our desire to transcend our isolation and have some sort of connection with one another. And it had to be easy when it was just simple survival. Like, you know, "water." We came up with a sound for that. Or "Saber-toothed tiger right behind you." We came up with a sound for that. But when it gets really interesting, I think, is when we use that same system of symbols to communicate all the abstract and intangible things that we're experiencing. What is, like, frustration? Or what is anger or love? When I say "love," the sound comes out of my mouth and it hits the other person's ear, travels through this Byzantine conduit in their brain, you know, through their memories of love or lack of love, and they register what I'm saying and they say yes, they understand. But how do I know they understand? Because words are inert. They're just symbols. They're dead, you know? And so much of our experience is intangible. So much of what we perceive cannot be expressed. It's unspeakable. And yet, you know, when we communicate with one another, and we feel that we've connected, and we think that we're understood, I think we have a feeling of almost spiritual communion. And that feeling might be transient, but I think it's what we live for.

It made me think about how language is used when it is applied to complex thoughts and ideas. I took a lot of what she says about language and tried to absorb it, pick it apart, and elaborate on with my own works. What I am doing when I am writing is a grand act of translation. How can I translate my own experiences with grief onto this scene, onto these characters? How can I best write love? Or anger? How can I tell a believable story of one character’s decades of emotional abuse? I am using my own life as this huge canvas of events and painting over it with different faces, different places, different heartbeats. And then I take that canvas and show it so someone else, who then will in turn see something entirely new. Language is inert! What a concept! Complex ideas must be first translated! This is a fantastic summary of how I view writing.

6. The painting In Bed, the Kiss, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

What a gorgeous painting, showing such an intimate moment between two people. It’s invocative of a full, well-loved life shared in love. It becomes even more powerful to me when I remember that it is widely believed that Toulouse-Lautrec only had relations with prostitutes. He had a life of health problems, having broken both is legs that did not heal properly, he was also abnormally short. Because he couldn’t participate in sporting like his friends, he turned to painting. It was a life of indifference and difficultly. Yet, he made one of my favorite paintings for its depiction of the serenity that comes with intimacy.

In the same vein, it is believed that Van Gogh was colorblind. He created some of the most recognizable paintings in the world while he was mired in depression and lonesomeness. Monet’s distinct style towards the end of his career is believed to be caused by cataracts. So much of the beauty in the world has been brought to us because of friction, tension, pain, anger, grief, depression, illness, isolation--- all the things that are believed to make the world ugly place. And yet, it was these artist’s ‘impediments’ that made their work powerful--- unique. All of creation is frustration, as said above. I believe that’s true, and it is something I think of while I write. I’m dyslexic, I make many mistakes, my relationship with language is a weird one, but I never forget that it may be the one thing that sets my writing apart. Through the struggle, I will create. My sense of humor? Because of my shitty childhood. My characters? Because for most of my life I wanted to be someone else. My writing style? Because of a reading ‘disability’. Creation is in conflict! That’s some inspirational shit right there.

7. Aaaand… Muppet Treasure Island.

Let’s see..

I will tag @queerloveandspaceships, @coveofmadness, @drderange and anyone else who wants to do it! I am sorry I am so fried after all of this.

#something I posted #text post #text #14th #June #2018 #June 14th 2018 #ask #long post #ask meme sorta #tag game #thank you again!

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auduna-druitt · 7 years

Text

Guardian (Part One)

Fandom: Star Trek AOS

Pairing: McKirk

Word Count: 4036

Rating: Teen

Beta’d: no

Perma tags: @feelmyroarrrr, @mccoymostly, @wonders-of-the-enterprise, @pinkamour1588, @goodnightwife, @ryon1101, @captainsbabysitter-blog, @medicatemedrmccoy, @mrkrychek, @southernbellestatues, @goingknowherewastaken

McKirk: @pinkamour1588, @mccoymostly, @yourtropegirl, @t-hy-lla, @medicatemedrmccoy, @imoutofmyvulcanmind, @frostingsfics, @shewolf-2013, @meterorite-queen

Leonard had been the guardian angel of a number of children. He loved the little darlings and was always sad when he was reassigned. He hated to see them go. His last little girl was as sweet as could be and had such big dreams. He couldn’t help her though. Sitting in the park waiting for his next assignment all he could think about was his sweet little Jenny.

He didn’t know who to expect. He’d been told the name of his assignment and a rough description but not much else, which was a little out of the ordinary. Usually he was taken directly to the child but this time he was simply told to wait.

“There’s been a change of plans.”

He looked up to see his boss walking toward him, “Sir?”

“Come with me and I’ll take you to him. Chris is having a hard time and could use some help.”

Leonard stood to his feet and followed along beside the older man. “Chris sir?”

The older man nodded, “His current guardian is retiring. You’re the replacement.”

“Is he difficult sir?”

“Oh no, he’s one of the best. Just time to hang up his hat and enjoy his time.”

“I meant my assignment sir.”

“Oh!” The older man grinned a little, “I’m sorry. Yes your new assignment can be a bit difficult at times but it’s nothing you can’t handle. Remember that kid Finnegan?”

Leonard nodded. Boy did he remember Finnegan. He was a little devil. Tormented the younger kids, always playing pranks, always in trouble. He sure gave me a run for my money.”

“So did that kid...what was his name? Riley? He was a fun one if I remember.”

Leonard gave him a slight smile, “Yeah, he was a good kid though. Had some trouble but he got through it alright.”

“I have to warn you, this assignment isn’t like any of your others. He’s a little older than the average but don’t let his age fool you. He needs someone watching out for him. He’s had a rough life and he’s not making it easier on himself.”

“So what am I supposed to do?” Leonard asked as they approached one of the apartment building situated at the edge of the park.

“You’re moving in.”

Leonard frowned and raised an eyebrow. “I’m what?”

“You’re moving in and you’re going to live like them. Keep an eye on him and try to keep him out of too much trouble. Fifth floor apartment 7B. He’s across the hall.”

Leonard stood there and stared up at the building. The older man nudged him. “Get a move on. Chris is waiting for you.”

Leonard headed up to the fifth floor and found Chris standing outside the door to 7B.

“You’re the new guy?”

Leonard nodded and held out his hand, “Leonard. You must be Chris?”

“That’s me. Phil didn’t say he was bringing in a fairy godmother for this.”

Leonard rolled his eyes and glanced down the hall, “So where is he?”

Chris nodded to the door across the hall. “That’s his apartment. He’s entertaining right now so we have some time to get you settled before he does something stupid again.”

“Great...Wait a second...He’s entertaining? Just how old is this kid?”

Chris turned the knob on the door to 7B and pushed the door open. “Twenty-three.” he said as he stepped inside the apartment.

Leonard glanced back at the door and sighed. This was not going to be an easy assignment.

Chris spent the next hour going over everything in the apartment with him. Food in the fridge, clothes in the closet, phone and laptop on the table, and the usual dos and don’ts of the job.

“We’ve arranged for you to work at the museum as a security guard, think you can handle that?” Chris asked as he pulled a uniform out of the hall closet and handed it to him.

Leonard took the uniform with a nod, “Yes sir.”

“Any questions before I leave?”

Leonard looked around the apartment and shook his head. “No sir, I don't think so.”

“Good. Jim’ll be about done and then he's off to work I suggest you get going too.”

Leonard nodded and walked into the bedroom to change into his uniform. Chris stepped out into the hall and looked over at the door to Jim's apartment. “You’ll do great.” He said quietly before heading down the hall.

A couple of hours later he walked out of the locker room and headed for his post in the lobby of the museum. The doors hadn’t opened yet but it wouldn’t be long and there would be streams of people coming in to see the new exhibits. He’d found a map of the museum in the pocket of his uniform and had studied it before he arrived for work but after fifteen minutes of wandering through the Egyptian exhibit he had to admit he was lost.

“You must be new here.”

He turned and looked around for the source of the voice. “It’s my first day…”

“Figured.”

A sandy haired man stepped out from behind an exhibit with the biggest grin and a sparkle in his eyes. The bluest eyes Leonard had ever seen. He felt his heart flutter in his chest and he frowned. He’d never felt anything like that before and he wasn’t sure what it meant.

“Jim Kirk, tour guide.” he said stepping over to him and extending his hand.

He blinked. Jim...his new assignment. The kid he was supposed to watch over. He took his hand and gave it a firm shake. “Leonard McCoy, security.”

“Nice to meet you, I’m headed for the lobby if you want to tag along.”

Leonard nodded, “Thanks.”

Jim turned and shrugged, “No problem. It’s easy to get turned around in this place. I got lost at least four times in my first week here.”

Leonard smiled and laughed. “The tour guide got lost?”

Jim looked over at him and grinned again, “I wasn’t a tour guide then. I’ve only been doing this for the last few months. I was at the front desk before that.”

Leonard followed alongside the blonde while he continued to talk about his time working in the museum and offering random facts about some of the exhibits as they passed. Once they had made their way to the lobby Jim turned and smiled. “See you around McCoy.” He said as he headed off toward a small group that was gathering near the door.

There was something about this kid that was different and it wasn’t just his age.

A few hours later Leonard stood at the information desk keeping an eye on the door as streams of people came in the doors. A group of five and six year olds on a school trip passed by him in two lines. He smiled down at them and a little girl near the end smiled back and gave him a little wave.

“Excuse me?”

He turned and looked up at the young girl that had just approached him. “Yes Ma’am? What can help you with?”

“I'm looking for my group. I got lost and I'm not sure where they went…”

“I'm sure we can find them. Who is your tour guide?”

“I can't remember his name but he's a little shorter than you, blonde hair, blue eyes…”

Leonard nodded. “Sounds like Jim.” He took his radio from his belt and hit the button. “I've got a lost lamb at the front desk. Can I get a location on Kirk’s group?”

“They’re headed for the Titanic exhibit.”

He smiled at the young woman. “Let me show you back to your group.”

She nodded as he turned to the desk. “Kalissa, I’ll be back shortly.”

The redhead behind the desk waved him off and continued staring at the monitor in front of her. He shook his head and started off toward the east wing of the museum, the girl following close behind him.

The Titanic exhibit was a temporary exhibit, it was making its way across the country and was only going to last a few short weeks. Leonard was familiar with the incident but had never actually seen any of the pieces in the exhibit. As he walked through he couldn't help but notice some of the items. Ladies gloves, unbroken dishes, scraps of paper, but the things that stood out to him the most were a pair of children's shoes and a deteriorating teddy bear.

He stopped and stared at the items thinking of the child they had once belonged to.

Tight black curls and amber eyes, barefoot in nothing but her thin white nightdress. Clutching the bear tightly to her chest as tears stream down her face. Reaching a hand out and placing it on her shoulder. Kneeling down beside her and whispering in her ear. Sniffling she is placed in a boat and someone wraps her up in a jacket.

A hand on his shoulder and he knows…his little girl won't make it through the night.

“Are you okay mister?”

The voice of a little girl brings him crashing back to the present. He turned to her and nodded. “I’m okay. Just thinking about someone I used to know. She had a bear like this one.”

“What was her name?”

“Elizabeth. She was four years old when I last saw her.” He took a step away from the case and she followed along beside him.

“What happened to her?”

“I’m not sure. She was going away and I never saw her again.”

“Oh.”

He smiled down at her and turned back to the exhibit. There were several groups making their way through, it took a few moment before he caught sight of the blonde headed man he was looking for. Putting a hand on her back he moved in the direction of Kirk and his group.

**“In compliance with the law of the sea, women and children boarded the boats first; only when there were no women or children nearby were men permitted to board. Yet many of the victims were in fact women and children, the result of disorderly procedures that failed to get them to the boats in the first place.”

Leonard cleared his throat and stepped up beside the blonde tour guide. “Lose something Kirk?”

“Lissie!” A young woman rushed over and grabbed her by the hand. “Where on Earth did you go?”

“I went to the bathroom and got a little turned around. I couldn’t find you so I went to the desk for help.”

The young woman looked up at Leonard. “Thank you for bringing her back to us.”

Leonard smiled and nodded, “Just doing my job ma’am.” He glanced over at Kirk, “Try not to lose anyone else?”

The blonde grinned, “I won’t. Thanks Officer McCoy.”

Leonard walked away and shook his head. If he didn’t know any better he could have sworn that woman was one of his girls. Who was he kidding, she was. Rachel always was good with the younger kids. He knew she’d grow up to be a teacher one day. Just never thought he’d get to see it.

Isadora was new in town, going to a new school, and just didn’t seem to fit in. She was a smart kid she was just quieter than most. Just the type that Jake liked to torment. Leonard sat on the bench at the edge of the schoolyard watching and wishing he could intervene, the poor girl looked terrified. Thankfully the sandy haired kid that was often the target of Jake’s bullying stepped in to help.

Jake balled his fist and Leonard stood to his feet. “Don’t do it Jake.” he whispered.

Jake hesitated as Isadora scurried away into the school. Jimmy stood in front of Jake and continued to stare him down, Leonard knew the chances were slim that Jake would back down voluntarily. He could only stand back and hope that he would do the right thing.

He didn’t. He punched Jimmy in the nose and left him bleeding on the ground. Leonard sighed and walked over to him. “You okay kid?”

Jimmy looked up at him and nodded as he wiped his nose with the back of his hand. “I’m fine.”

Leonard reached a hand out and helped him up, “I saw what you did for that little girl.”

Jimmy shrugged, “She’s new. No reason to pick on her.”

Leonard smiled, “Keep your chin up kid and don’t let the bullies keep you down.”

Nodding Jimmy turned and headed inside the school. Leonard watched him as the doors closed behind him. “You’re a good kid Jimmy. Don’t ever change.”

Two days later Leonard sat down on the couch and picked a book up off the table. He flipped through a few pages and set the book back down with a sigh. “What am I even doing here?”

“Helping Jim.”

Leonard turned toward the window, “Chris, how am I supposed to help him? I need more information.”

Chris shook his head and sat down on the couch. “You’ll know what to do when the time comes. Just stay close. He’s highly unpredictable.”

Leonard opened his mouth to say something when there was a knock at the door. “Just a minute!” He called before turning back to Chris only to find him gone. Shaking his head he stood to his feet and walked to the door. Unlocking the deadbolt he opened the door. “Can I help you…”

Jim smiled up at him. “Hey! Officer McCoy! I didn’t know we were neighbors!”

Leonard raised an eyebrow, “Are you drunk?”

Jim straightened up and gave him a crooked smile, “Maybe...What’s it to ya?”

“You knocked on my door.”

“Oh! Yeah I did!” He laughed and poked Leonard in the chest. “Would you happen to have a key to my place? I seem to be locked out…”

“Why would I have a key to your apartment?”

Jim frowned, “That’s a very good question. Why do you have a key to my apartment?”

Leonard shook his head, “I don’t. Why don’t you come in and take a seat while I call the building manager? Bathroom is on the left. If you need to throw up please do it in there.”

Jim nodded and walked into his apartment. This kid was going to be the death of him...if that was even possible. He shut the door and walked to the kitchen counter to pick up his phone. Jim had settled in on the couch and was looking around.

“You know the guy that lived here before?”

Leonard nodded, “I met him.”

“He was a nice guy. I’m gonna miss having him around...You know where he went?”

Leonard looked down at his phone and set it back down on the counter. Chris was right. “I think he was retiring. Not sure where he was going.”

“He was a nice guy. Helped me out of a few scrapes...Kinda like a dad to me in a way.”

Shit. This kid did have problems. If Chris was like a father too him. “What about your father?” he asked as he moved into the living room and sat down on the couch with Jim.

Jim shook his head, “Died in an accident when I was born...same day even. He was a firefighter. He was trying to get everyone out and the building collapsed on him.”

“I’m sorry.”

Jim shrugged. “I didn’t know him. My mom never talked about him. Think it traumatized her or something. She just couldn’t face it.”

“It must have been hard.”

“My brother couldn’t handle it so he went to live with our grandparents. I stayed with mom because she needed me.”

“I can understand that. I wish I’d been able to stay with the people that needed me.”

“Why’d you leave?”

Leonard shook his head. “My job kept me on the go a lot. Haven’t been in once place for very long in a while.”

“Maybe you’ll get to stay here for a while.”

“Maybe.”

Jim yawned and closed his eyes. “What’s keeping the manager?”

“Why don’t you just rest here and I’ll give him another call?” Leonard asked as he stood to his feet.

Jim nodded and slumped down on the couch. “Thanks Officer…”

“Call me Leonard.”

“Thanks Leonard.”

Leonard draped a blanket over him and stepped into the kitchen. “Why didn’t you tell me any of this?” He muttered to himself.

“You needed to hear it from him. I’ve been around him for years and saw a lot of his struggles first hand. If I’d told you your response to hearing it from him would have been different.”

Leonard turned to face Chris. “What am I supposed to do here? I don’t understand…”

Chris sighed, “He needs a friend. He needs someone to keep him steady.”

“How long of an assignment is this?”

“As long as it takes Leonard. As long as it takes.”

Over the next few weeks Leonard kept an eye on Jim. Neither of them mentioned the night Jim spent on Leonard’s couch and Leonard never mentioned waking to find him gone. Leonard found and envelope stuck under his door one evening after returning home from work and opened it. A key slid out into his hand and he pulled a small note out of the envelope that read “Just in case”.

“Just in case what?”

The door across the hall opened and he turned around. “Hey Leonard.”

“This yours Jim?” He asked holding up the key.

“Yeah. I thought it might not be a bad idea if you had a key. You know, just in case…”

Leonard nodded, “Thanks for trusting me.”

Jim shrugged and leaned on the door frame. “It’s not like I don’t know where you work and all. Besides you’re a security guard. If I can’t trust you then who can I trust?”

Leonard smiled and shook his head. “I guess that’s true.”

“You eaten yet?”

Leonard glanced inside his still dark apartment and shook his head. “No. In fact I think I forgot to go shopping…”

“Come on over. I picked up some chinese and I can’t eat it all.”

Leonard dropped his stuff inside the door and pulled it shut behind him. “Thanks Jim.”

Jim lead the way into his apartment, “No problem. I always get more than I can eat and it usually just sits in the fridge.” He pulled the bags of food over on the counter and started taking cartons out one at a time. “I’ve got fried rice, potstickers, egg rolls, wontons, vegetable lo mein, sweet and sour soup, beef and broccoli, and kung pao chicken.”

Leonard stared at the containers on the table and glanced up at Jim. “I can see why you always have leftovers. Were you really hungry when you ordered?”

“I never know what I’ll actually eat so I get a little of everything that sounds good. Today I couldn’t decide. What sounds good to you?”

Leonard shook his head, “Fried rice and kung pao chicken?”

Jim grinned and handed the containers to him. “Good cause I kind of wanted the noodles and beef. I picked up a movie on the way home too if you want to watch it with me.”

Chris had told him Jim needed a friend. This just proved that he was lonely. He’d practically planned the whole evening. What would he have done if Leonard had said no? Leonard glanced around the room. A couple of pictures of him and his mother hung on the wall in the living room and a random piece of art here and there but nothing that told him anything about the single occupant of the apartment. It wasn’t overly messy but it wasn’t the neatest apartment he’d seen either.

He looked over at the blonde with the crystal blue eyes, “What movie?”

Jim practically bounced over to the kitchen counter where he picked up a DVD case. “Peter Pan.”

Leonard laughed and nodded, “I haven’t seen that one in a while.”

“Good.” He headed over to the tv and stuck the dvd in the player before he settled in on the couch with his cartons of food. Leonard grabbed the utensils and sat down beside him and handed him a fork.

“Thanks.”

Leonard set the carton of rice on the side table and opened the chicken. “I’m not sure I’ve ever actually had this before.”

Jim looked over at him, “You aren’t allergic to peanuts are you?”

“Don’t think so.”

“Like spicy stuff?”

“Within reason.”

Jim grinned and stood to his feet. He disappeared into the kitchen and returned with three bottles of water. “You might need this then.” He said, handing one of the bottles to him.

“Thanks.”

Jim set the other two bottles on the table and grabbed the remote to start the movie. He pulled his feet up under him and settled in for the movie. Leonard spent as much time watching Jim as he did watching the movie. He was starting to understand why he had been chosen for this assignment. Jim was a in a sense still a child. He was a child at heart.

Kevin Riley had been sent to a wilderness camp for the summer. He wasn’t a bad kid, he just had trouble adjusting in school. His parents had decided that camp might help him. Leonard stuck close to him while he settled in with the other kids. Their guide took them deep into the woods and everything was going well until their guide disappeared on them leaving eight children alone in the woods with no food and only one tent. The second oldest kid in the group stepped up and took charge.

He oversaw the assembly of the tent and managed to find some berries and other edible plants nearby. Leonard could only watch from a distance while the kids fend for themselves while waiting for someone to find them. For three weeks they stayed right there. J.T. made a crude fishing pole and managed to catch a fish or two every couple of days and his simple trap even caught a rabbit. He built and managed the fire and did his best to keep the other kids calm. Kevin was the youngest and J.T. had taken him under his wing. Kevin followed him everywhere, Leonard was glad that Kevin had made a friend and knew he’d be alright.

At the end of the fourth week a search party found them and brought them back to the main camp. While everyone was bustling around getting food and water for the kids Leonard sat down beside J.T. “You the one in charge?”

He nodded and stared at his feet. “Yeah.”

“You kept them safe.”

J.T. nodded again, “Sam taught me lots of things before he left.”

“Sam?”

“My brother, he left to live with my grandparents. They couldn’t take us both, only wanted him.”

“You did good.”

“Thanks.” He wiped his face with the back of his hand and sniffled.

Leonard wrapped an arm around him, “It’s not your fault.” he said quietly.

The dam broke and the tears streamed from the boys eyes as he wrapped both arms around Leonard. Together they sat there until Jim cried himself to sleep. Laying him back on the bed Leonard pulled a blanket over him. “It’ll be alright kid.”

A month after their movie night Leonard was sitting at the info desk when the alarms sounded.

“An immediate evacuation of the museum is required due to a fire in the North wing. Please remain calm and exit the building in an orderly fashion. Follow the instructions of emergency and other museum personnel.”

Leonard jumped to his feet and grabbed his radio. “What’re we looking at John?”

Making his way toward the North wing against the steady flow of people he directs them to the exits.

“It’s not good Leonard. Don’t know what started it but it’s spreading fast and there are people trapped in there.”

Leonard’s heart skipped a beat, “Who’s still in there John?”

“Kirk’s group was near the back of the wing. They got trapped. We can’t get to them.”

**Source: http://www.history.com/topics/titanic

#McKirk #Fluff #feels #altcoffeeshopau #Leonard X Jim #McCoy X Kirk #Jim X Bones #Kirk X McCoy #why does mckirk happen to good people #Audie Writes

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db4fit · 5 years

Text

August Highlighted Member of the Month... KRISTEN BUNK

Name- Kristen Bunk

Hometown- Lancaster County, Manheim Township PA

Occupation- Administrative Assistant at W.L. Gore

Gym member (how long) - 1 year

Sports (growing up/now)- Softball & field hockey

Hobbies- hiking, reading, watching my kids play lacrosse (which tends to take over the other two)

Favorite Holiday- I love Christmas! It starts the day after Thanksgiving in our house with putting up decorations and taking a trip out to Herr's to see the lights. We put up the artificial tree in the family room and then a few weeks later go cut down the real tree for the living room. My immediate family and husband's family always go to Strasburg to ride the train with Santa and this year will be our 11th year. Two years ago we thought we would stop, but the two teenagers were the ones that said it was tradition and we had to go. We also have my son's birthday the week before Christmas, so it's just a fun time of year.

Favorite Movie- Sweet Home Alabama - I have seen it a million times and my family just roles their eyes at me if they see me watching it.

Favorite Song- There are so many, we always have music playing in our house. My favorites are the ones that take me back to special memories, Brandy; Looking Glass, Young; Kenny Chesney, Ain't no mountain high enough; Marvin Gaye & Tammy Terrell; To feel my love; Garth Brooks, Hooked on a feeling; Blue Swede

If you could have a super hero power- It's not really a super hero power, but I would love to have the nose twitch thing Samantha had on Bewitched. I want to just walk in the house and twitch my nose and bam, it's spotless!

If you could play a professional sport- Baseball - I played softball from 3rd grade straight through my first year of college and would sit for hours watching the Phillies with my grandfather.

Favorite Kids show growing up? Silver Spoons and Growing Pains

Most proud moment at the gym? Completing Murph. It really made me nervous when I found out what it was and I was not going to do it, but I'm glad the peer pressure to do it got me, because I survived and accomplished one more thing I never thought I would ever attempt.

Fitness Goals Long Term & Life Goals: I want to continue to be healthy and strong for myself and my family. My hope is that I am setting a good example for my kids that exercise is an important part of a healthy life style and doesn't end once you play your last game in high school or college.

2019 Fitness Goals- To have Lissy's arms, Haley's abs, Allison T's mental toughness, Bridget's drive…Seriously though, to have those attributes I want/need to continue to master the movements I struggle with and to work on my mental toughness. Right now pull ups are one of the thorns in my side, I tend to 'rest' in workouts too long and I overthink things.

What were your thoughts after participating in the open this year? Wow, what the hell did I just do! It was a great experience and a frustrating experience all in one and tested my mental toughness. I had a love hate with 19.2, because I was literally finishing my last squat clean when time ran out and I didn't get to advance to the next round. I loved my team and all of the pushing everyone gave each other every week. I am an introverted person and tend not to step out of my comfort zone, so all of the extra team activities, cheering all participants on and hanging out after the workouts helped me get to know a few more people and push me outside of my box. It sucked that I had been in a car accident the week before the open started, but I was able to make it through and am looking forward to being healthy next year.

What motivates you at the gym? Everyone! It's exciting to be in the gym when someone hits a new PR or to watch someone who has been struggling with a move or a certain weight now do it effortlessly. I do have a competitive nature, but need targets to help drive me there. The partner workouts are great for me because it pushes me to keep going, so that I don't let my partner down. I like that we as a community don't just come in and workout, but we have these bigger events throughout the year that we work towards and it keeps me motivated to keep coming back, because it's not the same old workout.

Something/Someone that Inspired(s) you at the gym- All our wonderful mommies that recently had their babies. To watch them over their pregnancy come into the gym consistently and kill it, even participating in the open, was just awesome.

Favorite (specific) wod we have ever done- I liked the one we just did recently, Clean & Jerks & Synchronized Bar Facing Burpees for time with a partner.

Least favorite wod: anything involving the bike!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One thing most people don’t know about you- I'm terrified to drive over bridges. When we were looking for a house we had to stay on this side of the canal, because I couldn't drive over the bridge everyday by myself. If I'm not driving I have to close my eyes and look down and the driver needs to be in a middle lane if there is one. If I'm driving I try to avoid them as much as humanly possible, but have managed to white knuckle, sweat dripping, get over a few. I have been on the Bay Bridge only twice in my life and had a major panic attack one of the times, thankfully not the driver. It's a height thing and a fear of ending up in the water and not being able to get the kids and myself out.

What is a guilty pleasure you have? Trash TV, I love vegging to the Housewives (OC, Beverly Hills, NY) and Southern Charm.

Somewhere you would love to travel to? I would love to go to Australia and Alaska.

Favorite Beverage: I'm boring and on a daily basis only drink water, but I do love a glass of wine or a few margaritas.

Something that is silly you can’t live without- Gummy Bears and only Haribo, I have an issue.

Favorite Gym memory- It wasn't in the gym, but participating in Spartan for the first time with my son and having everyone in the community give me pushes along the race to keep going. Cameron and I love to watch American Ninja Warrior and Spartan together and last year when Barbie posted a video of her climbing the wall, I thought I would like to try that. Well that lead to me joining the gym at the end of July and Niki convincing me a few weeks later to sign up for Spartan. Cam and I are both signed up to run again this year!

Favorite Lift/Skill/Movement in the gym- Squat clean, burpees (who says that?)

Name a pet peeve of yours- Clutter!!!

Design the perfect wod- Something with rowing, sit-ups, pushups, flipping tires, pulling sleds, climbing the wall

What would you tell someone that is thinking of joining our gym? Come & check out a boot camp! Start there and get hooked, then jump into another class. It doesn't matter your age and you don't need to be in shape to start out. There are a wide range of fitness levels and ages at the gym and nobody ever makes you feel like you shouldn't be there. The community is a friendly and encouraging environment! A year in and most times I still don't have a clue what I'm doing, but there is always someone to ask or help show me. I have grown a lot this last year and have done things I never thought I would start doing in my 40's.

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crazy-lady-in-a-hat · 7 years

Note

Your muse is smashed drunk and incoherent.

(( My little addition to the story ofpoor drunk Emilae ))

The evening was pretty normal forUl'dah, hot and sticky with people running around doing theirbusiness with the merchants or sneaking off for the night to whatevermisadventure they sought. Em was sitting at her usually spot watchingthe random people pass her by as she contemplates her next sculpturewhen a handsome cinnamon miqo'te should show up with a faint grin anda grand idea.

Dryst looks up to the tall Elezen withhis deep whiskey hued eyes take in the slight frown up on her lips,the furrow in her brow, and the sunburn beginning on the bridge ofher nose. “Hey Em, join me for a drink? You look as if you coulduse one. By the way how long have you been out here today?”

She blinks a few times before she looksdown to Dryst. “Hello handsome. I’d love to join you for a drink!”Her frown would turn in to a bright smile. “I’m not sure how longI’ve been out here, why do you ask? I’ve been trying to find theperfect specimen for my newest sculpture. I thought it’d be easy outhere where there are any number of people, but I’ve had no luck.”

He would offer her a wider grin and hisarm. “Let’s just say you look like you might need a pick me up andwho knows may be you can find inspiration in side.” She nodsjumping off the wall and linking her arm with his. “Sounds good tome, maybe something strong as well, it’s been a long day with nothingmuch to show for it.” He nods leading her to the Sands.

As they step into the crowded tavern itwas a bit cooler than the outside but the air was stifling with allthe patrons gathered. The smell of smoke and booze mixed with foodhung thick in the air. Moving around the tavern they find two seatsat the bar. “So lovely what would you have?” He asks in a whisperagainst her ear so she could hear him against the cacophony of voices. “Coffee and whiskey sounds good to me.” He nods waving tothe barkeep ordering two.

Picking up the first of many she takesa deep drink then smiles to him over the top. “What brought you outhere to the city Dryst, the normal roaming and findings ofmisadventures?” He nods taking a long pull from his mug. “Aye,isn’t that the usual?” She nods turning to lean against the barlooking out at all the patrons gathered this evening. “All thesepeople have stories, there are hundreds of books right here in frontof us, if someone took the time to write them.” She giggleslooking to him taking a long drink from her mug, she stops a momentlooking to the mug in a bit of confusion but lifts a shoulder andenjoys the drink just the same. “Aye, there are many stories herewant to play a little game on guessing the story? The one who guesseswrong has to take a drink?” His deep whiskey eyes light up withmirth at the thought of story telling. She giggles with a nod. “I’mnot great at judging people by just looking at them, but this couldbe fun.”

Round One

“Lovely, pick a group and I’ll tellyou a tale to go with them.” Dryst looks to her with a faint smirkand a wink. Em looks around her sights fall on a tall male Roeleaning on the bar smoking a cigar talking with two female Miqo'te,the three of them were all drinking ale from steins. “How aboutthat group over there?” Dryst sizes up the group his ears flexingthis way and that trying to pick up a bit of their conversation.

Finally Dryst says what he thinks ofthe three sitting down the bar from them. “Well the Roe isobviously a business man with his two business associates havingdrinks.” Em looks them over curiously. “And you guess this how?” She giggles softly. He stands walking over to the group. “My dearEm, you see the drinks they are having are not that cheep and theyare dressed very well.” He turns to the Roe. “Sir, are you herewith your associates after a hard day with the merchants guild?” The Roe and the two Miqo'tes nod with identical bewildered looks upontheir faces. “There you have it lovely, now drink up.” Em sticksher tongue out at him with a laugh as she drinks up her coffee mixedwith whiskey.

Round Two

Em picks a Lalafell and a Hyur dancingwearing pointed hats and lovely frilly outfits. Dryst suggested thatthey were practicing for an upcoming show, it turned out that theywere just enjoying each others company while dancing to the musicplayed in the tavern. Dryst drank his coffee and whiskey.

Round Three

Em points to a pair of male auristanding in the back pointing out people and talking back and forth.Dryst sizes them up as lovers and they are pointing out outfits theymight try later. Walking over Dryst finds he is correct and wascomplimented on how he was dressed. Shaking her head Em once againdowns her mug getting gigglier and gigglier every moment.

Round Four

Em points to the other side of thetavern to a table that holds a Lalafell, a Roe, and an Elezen deepin a conversation that is getting louder by the moment. Drystsurmises that someone owes someone money. Come to find out the Elezenhad cheated in a game with the other two and they were here tocollect the money owed them. Em laughs finishing off her third drinkwhile Dryst looks at his second taking a long pull from it. “Onemore?” Em askes. Drysts watches her a moment then nods. “Onemore.”

Round Five

Em looks to the group that has gatheredaround them listening to the tales Dryst spins about those around theSands. “Those gathered with us are here to listen to you.” Shegrins to Dryst as he sticks his tongue out at her. “That’scheating.” She laughs. “You said last round.” He laughs asthey finish their last mug, more whiskey than coffee now. Shegiggles sliding off the stool. “O… okay. I tink it’s time to gohome.” He nods helping her to her feet as he dips his head towardsthe patrons that have gathered. “Goodnight folks, the show isover.” She leans against him playing with his tie and mumblingabout how cute he is. She stumbles over her feet a few times but theyfinally make it out the back of the tavern and onto one of the sidestreets before her whole world turns on it’s side.

( This is where @drystanaislinn post comes inhttps://drystanaislinn.tumblr.com/post/159335740233/26-my-muse-is-temporarily-blind)

( This is where @fillees post comes inhttp://fillees.tumblr.com/post/159341385608/4-my-muse-is-completely-drunk-and-incoherent)

Emilae giggles loudly as she turns herhead looking for the voices she hears. “Whhhhy are you guyyys overthere on the ceiling?” Lis and Dryst look behind them as Em slidesoff the couch head first with a thud. “This is why you can’t leave,she needs to get cleaned up and I will need the help getting herthere. Plus you look disheveled and a hot bath would do you wonders.”Lis looks Dryst over with a grin checking out his tattoos. Drystlooks to his wet pants and boots that have seen better days. “Maybea bit, but I can just go to my…” Lis cuts him off as her handscome up to his shoulders turning him around and lightly pushes him tothe other side with the couch and an upside down Em laughing andswinging her arms in exaggerated motions.

“Let’s see what damage has been doneshall we?” Lis looks over Dryst a moment taking in his tattooswith great appreciation. Em watches them giggling the whole time.“Hey Liss, Lissy, Dryst, Drystyyy.” She giggles so loud shesnorts as she plays with the sounds of their names. “Youzzz guyshelmp me up ssssso I cannn join youzz. That looookz like fun.” She continues to flail her arms “Why is my head so heavyyy?” Lis tries not to laugh at how Em had ended up. “You are both goinginto the bath. The rain got the worst of it but you still need toget cleaned up.”

Dryst and Lis move over to Em who isalmost all on the floor now her arms at odd angles. “I need help.”She says into the floor. The other two try not to laugh at herpredicament and move on to either side of her trying to capture aflailing arm only to end up with Em feeling them both up. Drystblinks as he looks at her, his cheeks darkening slightly beforelooking towards Lis who is blushing and does her best to move thegiggling Elezen. “You really need me here for this?” Lis nods.“Easier with four hands instead of two, plus you kept her out allnight.”

The three finally settle into the bathafter fighting Em’s flailing arms to get her out of her clothing.Settling back they let the hot water warm them up. “Who would havethought Em would be so giggly and touchy feely this drunk.” Lislaughs watching Dryst, his already flush cheeks darken a bit deeper. The mix of booze and heat causes Em to get sleepy. Dryst looks to Liswith a soft smirk inclining his head. “Looks like she has warmed upand is ready for bed.” Lis laughs looking towards Dryst as the daysevents and booze and hot bath are getting to him as well. “Lookslike you may be as well. Let’s get you both dried off andcomfortable.” Em looks between them leaning forward she drapes anarm around their shoulders. “I love you guys.” Lis smiles toher. “We love you too, Em. Now lets get you to bed.” She pats thetaller Elezen on the hand. Dryst nods his agreement. “Bed, yes…”

Lis and Dryst step out of the bath,both taking one of Em’s arms and helping her out. They all dry off,slip into light clothing and move the tall Elezen into the bedroom.Em sees the bed and flops into it all laughs and giggles as she takesthe other two with her. She drapes her arm across Dryst and Liscuddling them both before she passes out. The pair look up to Em thento each other lift a shoulder before resting their heads on hershoulders, wrapping an arm around her and falling a sleep themselves.

#asks #drystanaislinn #fillees

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katximaginesx · 7 years

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Tag

I was tagged by @bts-exo-seouls But then again when am I not.

Nickname: Lizzy, Kat, Lissi idek the weirdest things

Zodiac sign: I am a Capricorn and I’m proud bitch fite me

Height: I hate my height. I’m 158cm or 5′1 or something. I’m small. I hate it.

Last thing I Googled: Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes because I’m writing a history exam tomorrow ahaha..

Favourite musical artist: I can’t say anything about this. I love all the artists I listen to, I guess EXO is always number one in my heart but then there are all those other bands…sigh

Song stuck in your head: Hero by Monsta X because I was listening to it in the shower and now its stuck (ahaha not funny I know I tried)

Last movie you saw: I guess it’s fifty shades darker lol I haven’t watched a movie in a long time

What are you wearing right now: Grey shorts and a grey muscle top because the weather is actualy nice fo once wow Germany whats good

What do you post: random fics that I thought of during the day or night when my brain was too awake to let me sleep. Sometimes poems. Sometimes texts. I do reactions and ships too tho. Just saying.

Why did you choose your URL: Well my nickname is Kat and I’m writing imagines. Boom.

Do you have any other blogs: Yep. Primary/reblogging blog @littlekatlizzy and a rant blog that kinda died @lizzyrants

What did your past relationship teach you: I’ve never been in a relationship, but I’ve had plenty of experiences to say something about this. Boys in this age suck and don’t give a fuck. At least where I live. I had a few crushes on really close friends that always showed some kind of interest in me. I confess and BOOM ew no I don’t even like you. I mean yes I always flirt with you and we cuddle and haha lol I once said I’d kiss you and even sleep with you but ew. I don’t like you. So yeah I think that boys pretty much suck right now. They’re all too childish in my opinion. At least boys my age. (Hey Violet reference baboom bitch)

Religious or spiritual: I believe in some pretty weird shit. I don’t believe a certain religion. I believe that the greek and roman gods exist. I believe in reincarnation. Aaaaaaand..yeah. The scientific way of how earth came to exist.

Favourite colour: No idea. I guess I’ll go with purple though. I like purple,red,black and white a lot.

Average hours of sleep: On average, I’d say 3-4 hours.

Lucky number: Eleven

Favourite character: YOU WANT ME TO CHOOSE? Okay bitch hold up. Axel/Lea from Kingdom Hearts along with VENTUS BECAUSE MY BOY NEEDS MORE LOVE DAMN IT. And Vanitas and Riku of course. Then we’d have Zen this little bitch he’s fucing beautiful, Hyun Ryu I’m talking about you. AND HOLY DAMN NATHAN DRAKE SLAY ME. Aheam. End of rant.

How many blankets do you sleep with: I go to sleep witth two. Wake up with either one or none. I move and kick a lot. Whoopsie.

Dream job: I want to be an artist. In what way, not sure. Singing wuld be nice but I can’t sing for shit. I love dancing but all my friends say I look like a stupid old grandma doing so. I love art and drawing but the budget for this shit is really low. So I actually started a list of my future dream jobs lmao. Currently it consists of a chocolaterie and patisserie combined, working in a bookstore, working as a translator, being a neurologist or a phrenologist. Weird dreams, I know.

I tag: @missikowoman @lazyspida and @gwaenchanhajagiya have fun doing it ;)

#admin post #admin lizzy #tags

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chefbstrikesagain · 7 years

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Mid Year Break

The past couple of weeks have been a blast. No routine, accompanied by my closest friends, made for countless memories and little sleep. My holiday technically started on May 24 and lasted until June 11- felt like 3 months but was definitely a busy 2.5 weeks. The trip began on the morning of May 24 where Me, Martin, Joey, and the rest of the Sabah Gang headed to Kota Kinabalu to an early 4th of July party at the U.S. Embassy. We were extremely undressed for the event as we didn't want to pack super formal clothes. I sound ridiculous but dressing nicely would have meant backpacking around with dress shoes and a suit for the remainder of our travels. This resulted in sweaty me changing in a parking 20 minutes before the event into khakis in a button down. Sweaty and wrinkled I began shaking hands with people dressed in tuxes and needed a drink stat. Upon arrival, trusty old Janna had already scoped out the salmon sandwiches and wrangled down a waiter to get us all glasses of red wine from the open bar. After about 8 glasses, a passenger van arrived to take us to the airport for the start of our mid year programming. We landed in KL around 1am and it took another hour to get back to the beloved Dorsett Hotel. The Dorsett is where we spent our 2 weeks when we first got to Malaysia for orientation and holds a special place in everyone's hearts. Other than being extremely hungover everyday of programming, this was my favorite meet up yet. Fulbright let us do most of the talking and voice our specific problems. Mid year felt like a 'choose your own adventure book' which really helped people cope with specific problems they were having. After many icebreakers and a sleepless few nights I shared a grab car to the airport with Eleanor, Lissy, and Katie to make my 6am flight to Hanoi. Arriving in Hanoi meant that I was just 24 hours away from seeing my roommmates from COLLEGE. It has been so long since seeing them, or pretty much anyone from the U.S.. I spent the first day in Hanoi alone sightseeing. However, about an hour into my solo expedition I met a girl on a motorbike named Ming. Ming is from Hanoi, Vietnam and is a University student (or so she told me) in Pharmacology. Because it is her summer, she was looking for work taking around tourists on the back of her bike. She pulls up, offers me a helmet and an unbeatable price (10USD) for 3 hours of bopping around the city. She took me to local places to eat, explained the history of so many temples, and was a good pal to take selfies with. She dropped me back off at my hostel around 4pm and I spent the rest of the evening chit chatting and watching Netflix on the blazing fast wifi. The next morning I woke early, excited and anxious for Jackson, Rob, and Ang to arrive. I grabbed an uber moto to the airbnb which must have been a site. A 6'2 male with a 25 pound hiking backpack jumping on the back of this small Vietnamese man's motorbike. All in all I made it to the airbnb unscathed and had a few hours to kill. I was still pretty tired from all of our going out during mid year but a nap was not in the cards- I was just too excited. I laced up my running shoes and went for a short jog on the treadmill and then laid by the pool for a few hours. In what seemed like an eternity, I finally heard a knock at the door and APT. 6 was finally reunited. They looked, and smelled like hell but I was still so excited to see them. We chatted about the flight and the fact they were across the world for an hour before we decided to grab some local food and settle in for the night. Don't ask Rob about getting some of the local food. He was convinced we were all going to get Hep B the entire time. The next few days in Vietnam were a blur but included Vietnamese massages, local coffee, a trip to the famous Ha Long Bay, and loads of walking/sightseeing. We set off for Siem Reap on the 31st with our luggage in tow and arrived around 8pm. After Ang getting stuck in customs we found ourselves in 2 tuk tuks hauling down the road towards our villa. Tuk Tuks are such a fun way of transportation! We took them everywhere our entire stay in Cambodia mainly because of the price but also because they were everywhere. Our resort was beautiful and full of warm orange and yellow colors, fresh flowers, and statues of Buddha. We were welcomed with a cold cloth compress and fresh squeezed juice at reception. The owner asked us about where we came from and gave some suggestions (a full 4 day itinerary) on what we should do. We agreed that we wanted to do sunrise and before we knew it our alarms were blaring at 4:45am to go meet the tuk tuk driver. The first few hours of the morning were hazy. Our driver spoke almost no english and would just drop us off places and we would cross our fingers we would be able to find him later on. The sunrise was beautiful but a little disappointing to be honest. A lot of online blogs said it was a really spiritual experience, maybe if I had done it again it would have been better but between the photo shoots and the sweat dripping down my legs and forehead, all I wanted was the pool. We were 'templed out' by 2pm and finally made our way back to our villa where we enjoyed drinks and more food by the pool while we rested until going out that night. The night can be summed up in two words by my 3 pals 'puke city' and I'll leave it at that for their sake ;) It was an interesting time to be in Cambodia. They were undergoing elections and parades of people were campaigning in the street blasting music from cars and tuk tuks hoping their candidate would be chosen. Small business owners hoped for the opposition to take power as they promised more distribtion of wealth, while the reigning party kept their pockets lined. According to Uncle Google, Cambodia's government is extremely corrupt.. However, because of these elections, many bars and activities were closed due to people leaving to return to their villages to vote. There was also a city wide alcohol ban on the bars one night which led to us turning in early and catching up on some well deserved sleep. The next day was busy but involved ATVing through the countryside and rice paddies. Jackson found the tour and for 30 USD we spent hours driving through giant puddles and essentially causing havoc. Rob's chain fell off about halfway through his ATV which was unfixable out in the fields so he had to ride on the back of mine until a new ATV could be dropped off about 15 minutes down the path. ATVing might have been the highlight of my time in Cambodia- such an adrenaline rush. Later that night we were able to meet up with some of my Fulbright friends at a restaurant in Cambodia where fortunately, Claire snuck in a bottle of whiskey in her bag big enough for all of us. We spent hours polishing off the bottle between the 8 of us and made our way down the street to some of the clubs. Cambodia was where we spent most of our time but seemed like a blur, before we knew it we were up early (once again) and at the airport where our heavy bags caused some major problems. At the check-in counter Ang and I both got flagged because our bags looked overweight. I was able to talk the guy down from $40 to only a $10 charge by explaining I was a teacher in Malaysia and i've never had a problem traveling with my bag before. Ang, on the other hand, ended up getting a little confrontational with the guy who wouldn't budge. The ole American way of dealing with confrontations seemed to make bad worse. I don't think the AirAsia employee appreciated Ang taking photos of the man and threatening to call his manager. Honestly thought he was going to be kicked out of the airport- but our bags were checked and against all odds we made it through security. This was a low point of the trip for sure. We were all still feeling the night before and tried to remedy our hangovers with some coffee and breakfast sandwiches. Ang got a burger which I think ended up working out well in his favor. An hour later we boarded the most turbulent flight of my life. Jackson, Rob, and I respectively filled row 22 on our AirAsia flight to Phuket. Andrew, was moved up towards the front of the plane by himself which he smugly smiled back at us thinking he was first class- smh. About 45 minutes into the flight the seat belt sign turned on and the plane became turbulent. Before I knew what was happening it felt like we were dropping out of the sky. Jackson, Rob, and I were fighting back vomit as our greasy breakfast sandwiches and hangovers mixed violently in our stomachs. This turbulence was intermittent and just when you though it was over we felt our stomachs move up to our throats as the plane dropped 100 feet. We finally landed safely on the ground but when we got outside the airport we understood how bad the conditions were. As we were waiting for a taxi 4 Thai men and woman were holding a taxi stand down to prevent it from being taken by the monsoon that was only gathering strength. We arrived at our Hostel, Lub D, and made our way up to our room and we all posted up in our beds for a good amount of time still trying to recover from the flight. We grabbed food as the rain finally subsided at a small restaurant just a few blocks away where I enjoyed my first authentic pad thai! With our spirits lifted we made our way back to the hostel and formed a game plan for our short time in Phuket. Over the 3 days 2 night we were there we were able to go to a tiger sanctuary, have a beach day, explore the nightlife, and go to an all day event at an Elephant sanctuary. These were all unique and incredible experiences within themselves and I'll elaborate later but definitely some of my favourite parts of the trip. After what seemed like a week, but was only 2 nights, we made our way back to yes you guessed it, another airport, where we boarded our quick flight to Bangkok. Somehow Angus made it on the flight with 2 bags to our surprise! We checked into our hostel around 12:30am and had a solid sleep until we woke up to explore Bangkok. Claire and Kelsey, two other ETA's, were staying at the same hostel as us so we spent the morning at a coffee shop getting to know each other, and then set off into the city. We were able to see the Royal palace, the Emerald Buddha, the reclining Buddha, a canal tour, and even go out that night. It was such a busy day but the night seemed to last forever. After downing buckets of red bull and rum while listening to an incredible live band, we left for the 2nd best bar, according to trip adviser in Bangkok. Set 64 floors up, SkyBar Bangkok, was insane. Insane because of the views but also because of the 690 Baht drinks, which we seemed to have no problem spending.... Ang ordered a cuban cigar and we were actually living the high life. Our last day was sad and was mostly spent talking about our trip, prepping for their flight home, and we also got measured in case we ever wanted to order custom suits from a tailor in the city. We spent our last few hours in the bean bag lounge in our hostel awaiting the inevitable. After a long 2 weeks it was finally time to say goodbye. With the song yellow by coldplay in the background and the rain pounding the windows we hugged goodbye as the Uber arrived. It was a bittersweet moment but makes me really appreciate how good I have it in terms of friends. These guys flew across the world not only once but twice, to come visit and get a taste of what life was like for me. By the end of the trip I had a feeling that they were ready to go as the sleep deprivation and 2 week bender had finally started to set in for everyone. With runny noses and giant backpacks they set off for the final leg of the trip- the ride home. Having these 3 visit was a huge mental relief for me. Being gone from home for 5 really begins to take a toll on you and don't realize how caught up in life you get while over here. They reminded me of what is important and that I need to finish strong as life is pretty much the same back home - despite my fomo.

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