#not even kidding!!! i can’t believe this!!! did you feel me working up the courage to talk to you!!!!

[sadlybeans]

No More Batman AU Part 4: The Prodigal Son

AO3 Link || Part 1, 2 & 3

Dick could pretend all he wanted and play at being a strong, reliable hero, but he wasn’t.

Nightwing had become a beacon of what any new member of the Justice League could aspire to be, standing next to the founding members after winning his own place and not as a replacement to Batman after his retirement. He had worked hard to be the person everyone could rely on, and in turn he had won many wonderful friends that would undoubtedly give everything for him if he just asked— But Dick Grayson? Dick Grayson was a coward.

Dick Grayson was scared to death every day when he didn’t have his siblings in sight, anxiety building up on his chest until he could call or visit to see them, make sure they were safe, they were home, they were alive. He had lost every drop of courage the day he returned home only to be told his little brother had been killed. There wasn’t a single day since those news that he didn’t feel fear, even if he knew his little siblings were strong and capable on their own.

But… well. He wasn’t sure if he was afraid for Damian, or of what he could do.

Dick had started his vigilante career as a child of all of nine years old when his rage was too much to contain and Bruce had lost every battle to keep him home. He had trained with and against many people and he had grown so much that it was said he had long ago surpassed Batman, and yet— yet he felt that Damian was almost, just almost, as good as him.

Damian, the fifteen year old child that had just been dropped on their doorstep a couple months ago. Damian, who refused to acknowledge their presence most days, who swore in expletives that scandalised even Alfred, and who was a trained and seasoned assassin. Damian, who could heal inhumanely fast, who could see in the dark and move without sound, and who had broken Tim’s arm in three with two strikes too fast for any of them to stop.

He was just a kid who shouldn’t have been in their business -much like none of Dick’s siblings should be- yet he was proficient in many of Bruce’s and Dick’s techniques, and he was unfairly fast in learning amidst a fight… Dick had tried setting him up against Cass, and had thought it worked for a moment… until he learnt to use her own moves and set them equally until they were both exhausted. He had mopped the floors with Tim and Steph, and then almost defeated Dick all in a row.

When Tim had asked sarcastically if that was all he had, Damian had frowned as he opened and closed his fist.

“I’m still adjusting to fight without weapons”

A frightening phrase that had made them all fall silent, and then he had to ask cautiously if he’d like to spar with wooden swords. He could’ve sworn Damian almost brightened to that suggestion, but it was such a quick expression he couldn’t be sure. He then picked a katana and won. Against everyone.

And so, after an entire week of testing, they sat in the batcave and Bruce took a deep breath as he stared at all his children, and Dick for once didn’t know how to feel knowing that there was absolutely no excuse to not let Damian out onto the field.

“It’s… clear that your mother trained you well” he started.

“She didn’t” Damian interrupted immediately “Mother had tutors for me, but baba made me better“

Dick mentally filed another tick for concern on his thoughts about Damian’s mysterious baba.

“Right” B cleared his throat “your baba trained you well, I admit that you’re strong enough— But!” the boy scowled and he continued “Things here are not like you’re used to and….”

“I’ve been told on your family’s stand on killing. It’s stupid, but I’m willing to play along” he grunted reluctantly.

Bruce stared at him, and so did Tim and Dick, but there was no trace of deceit in him. For all his intensity and temper, he wasn’t really the type to lie as they had learnt, so Dick was inclined to believe him this time.

“… Very well. You can’t be Robin”

“You have said that already” Damian rolled his eyes “I’ll take another name”

That is certainly not the point, and none of them were comfortable with him being out there when they didn’t even know why he wanted to.

Things in Gotham had gone downhill when Jason died, and when Batman was put into the case that stood next to Robin, it was up to everyone else to keep the order in the city. They’d done a good job of keeping up the illusion, of pretending Batman still existed, but those who knew him well knew the truth… Joker hadn’t escaped in ten years, not since a week after Jay died and Nightwing beat him half to death before tossing him in Arkham. But now the asylum was on high alert, and a certain clown was said to be in a good mood after those photos of Robin were leaked.

The news had exploded and the topic was trending online, hence why Damian was actually needed despite their reluctance; he was the only one that fit the build and size, and who could also perfectly replicate Jason’s body language as terrifyingly confirmed by the photos and footage. They didn’t look that much alike and Damian’s skin was darker, but the pictures were taken at night and from far off, nobody could spot the difference unless he was close enough and standing still.

“Can you promise that you’ll be careful and follow Dick’s rules?”

The boy frowned.

“I’m not a child, I know what to do”

“We already discussed this, it’s my way or nothing”

“… Fine, I promise” he said in a grunt, crossing his arms across his chest. “Any other ridiculous demands?”

“You never patrol alone, ever” Bruce held up a hand before he could protest “that’s a rule all of them follow, not only you”

He didn’t look any more happy but nodded.

“And one last thing… you’re going to need to learn the ropes of how this works, and Dick can’t supervise you all the time. For obvious reasons, I don’t believe anybody else is qualified to supervise you, so after talking it through with Clark… Superboy is going to be your partner whenever Nightwing is not available”

Damian didn’t say anything, no immediate explosion of anger, nothing. They all waited with baited breath as he just stared at Bruce.

“He’s a child” he finally replied, with actual bafflement in his voice.

“Jon is thirteen, yes, but he’s been in the business for longer than you, and he’s kryptonian. It’s safer”

“So I don’t kill him”

“Safer for both of you”

“No, you really just want to prevent me from killing him because I don’t have access to kryptonite at the moment”

“I… Like to believe you would not attempt to kill a child”

Damian shook his head in disbelief and Tim pushed past Dick.

“Are you serious, B!? Jon’s way too good for him, it’s not safe! Why not— hell, if you want him to be supervised by a kryptonian then Kon might be able to!”

Bruce sighed deeply.

“Supernova is as busy as you are, son. And there is an undeniable advantage on Damian being around a boy his own age, it will raise less suspicion”

“B, this is madness!”

“I don’t think this is a good idea….”

Slowly they all started to argue and Bruce tried to appease Steph, Tim and Duke, with Cass staying silently frowning in the background and Dick letting himself fall seated on the chair next to the computer, exhausted both physically and mentally. Damian didn’t look too upset but he was definitely over the whole conversation and completely tuned it out, moving through a couple sword forms with his wooden katana. God… when had things fallen apart this bad?

A phone rang in the silence and Damian turned his head towards the computer, where his burner phone rested. Dick’s eyes widened and slowly the discussion died down as the teen crossed the room and picked it up, looking down at the screen for a second before he answered it.

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing, you ungrateful little brat!?”

Dick fully winced at the furious voice that hollered at the other side, audible in the sudden dead silence of the cave. Damian looked wholly unimpressed, and he wasn’t sure if to think that was stupid or brave.

“I’m fitting in, like you said I should. Wayne has agreed to let me patrol with them”

Damian please, don’t you have any self preservation instincts? Why are you talking to your father like this? Damian, I beg you—

“If you so much as step a single foot out on the streets on patrol I WILL DRAG YOU BACK kicking and screaming if I have to!”

“Ok”

“You have no idea of—! … What?”

Damian’s lips turned into a smug smirk and Dick gaped at him.

“I said ok. You can come drag me back inside the house”

Oh.

Oh, this sneaky little brat… It was such a simple trap but it worked. This mysterious “baba” of his obviously wanted nothing to do with the bats -so far their leading theory was that he didn’t want to risk getting arrested-, which was why he couldn’t check on Damian personally, but if the boy did something so reckless that he wouldn’t approve of, something he knew only he would be able to stop… then he had no choice but to come to Gotham and set him straight.

“Damian Al-Ghul, you know exactly why I don’t want you out playing superhero” the man hissed in a low dangerous tone.

“I know” the teen agreed calmly “and it’s not going to stop me. I didn’t want you to go either and you didn’t listen to me”

“I’m the adult in this relationship you little shit, you don’t get to make demands”

“Well you gave me away so it’s not up to you anymore!” And he hung up. He turned off the phone and turned away to stare directly at Bruce. “When can I go out, then?”

Fuck…. Dick seriously needed a drink.

Robbing a store in Gotham was frighteningly easy, as long as you didn’t run across a very pissed off owner or a vigilante. But hey, Mark was very sure that none of the Bats patrolled that area at that hour, giving him a window of time to act and leave silently without anybody being disturbed.

After emptying the safe and putting a few semi valuable items in his backpack he sighed and turned around towards the door, and nearly had a heart attack right there and then, a strangled yelp coming out of his mouth. There was… god, that was a new one!

The figure was perched atop a car at the other side of the narrow street, crouched and staring directly into him through the soulless white eyes. They wore a black hood that obscured most of their face, but the bat cowl they wore was still visible and the ears poked out of it, easily making them identifiable. The rest of the suit was mostly black and red, with a somewhat childish touch on it that gave it a creepy vibe; the chunky boots of a bright red that matched the knee and elbow pads, the crimson palms of the black gloves, and the bright bat on their chest. Something about this miniature Batman reminded Mark of… of Robin, whose pictures had been supposedly taken not long ago.

Fuck, no, it couldn’t be him! Robin had died ten years ago, this was impossible—

The figure stood from his crouch and jumped down to the pavement to start making his way over, and Mark screamed in terror.

New Vigilante in Gotham! Could This Be Robin!?

Dick folded the newspaper and sighed, looking up to the many screens of the computer again. The media had been in a frenzy the entire week, and the internet was blowing up even more. Hardcore fans had dug up every single video and photo they had of Robin from ten years ago and were comparing them side to side with little Batman, and incredibly… they were thoroughly convinced that they were one and the same, which had sparked an avalanche of theories as to how had he come back from the dead, and why so late. If any of them had been skeptical about Damian’s ability to imitate Jason, then their doubts had been eliminated— hell, he could do it so well that he had added details not even Dick or Bruce could remember until they rewatched old footage to compare.

In just his first night the new Batman had turned the city upside down, and so far after a week of continuous work, he seemed to be doing just fine… which was why now, Bruce wanted them to focus on finding that mysterious ‘baba’.

Damian was still not aware of their active investigation, but either way they had found absolutely nothing, not even Babs had managed to dug up any evidence or record, and it didn’t help that the info they had was severely limited to little facts the youngest Wayne dropped here and there.

“I don’t think we’ll find shit” Tim declared next to him, grumpily staring at the nth file they had on the League of Assassins. “We don’t even know what this man looks like”

Dick let out a long sigh and leaned back on his chair as another article popped up on screen, one mentioning the date of Robin’s death, and a vague memory popped up in his head.

“Hey Timmy, do you remember I told you about that kid I ran into at the faire?” he asked quietly as he straightened back up.

“Yeah, the rude little shit that didn’t even say thank you”

“…. I think that was Damian”

Tim finally looked up and frowned.

“What?”

Dick nodded as he turned to look at him with wide eyes, now remembering clearly.

“He was wearing sunglasses so I didn’t see his eyes, but the skintone and face shape is the same, and he was wearing his black hoodie that day, I’m a hundred percent positive it was him”

And come on, the way he talked was a dead giveaway too.

“Dick, why is this relevant?” his poor little brother asked in annoyance.

“Because I saw his dad too!” he declared triumphantly at last, grinning like a mad man, before he turned to the computer and started typing frantically “I couldn’t see his face either, he wore sunglasses and a mask, but he was tall— hell, I think he’s taller and broader than Bruce. And he— he had white hair, I remember I saw white hair beneath his hood”

Tim scrunched up his nose.

“He’s old….? But that can’t be, his voice sounds way too young… dyed hair?”

“Possibly. It would make sense if he doesn’t want to be recognised”

It was a small trail, but a trail nonetheless. With those small identifiers they could check across the security feed of thousands of cameras in Gotham, and narrow the search to big tall men with white hair that had been spotted around the time Damian arrived and right before it. If they clocked a single glampse on him from one of those, they could follow the lead until it brought them to his doorstep. The man was good at hiding, they had to admit, but they weren’t the world’s greatest detectives for nothing.

Before they could truly start digging on the new lead properly, one of the screens was overaken by Babs.

“Sorry to crash your party boys, but I think you should clock in early today— I just got an alert on East End for way too many gunshots. Mini Batman is requesting to go out”

“I’m not a mini anything, Gordon” Damian called from the stairs, where he was walking down followed by a silent Cass.

Babs completely ignored him and Dick frowned.

“I don’t think it’s wise to bring you to a possible gang war, Damian”

The fifteen year old raised an eyebrow at him.

“Should I remind you that of anybody in this room, I have performed best the entire week?” he replied dryly.

Dick frowned but Cass surprised them by raising her hand to interrupt.

“We need all the help. Batman will play nice”

They glanced at Damian, who rolled his eyes but nodded in accordance to their sister. Well then… time to work.

What they found in East End was not a gang war in fact, but clowns… Joker’s thugs. While Joker himself hadn’t stepped out of Arkham since Dick last tossed him in ten years ago, his clowns usually came back every few months to remind Gotham they still existed, that Joker could come back every time… It didn’t seem like he had escaped, not yet at least; when and if he did, he would definitely try to make it memorable for ‘little Robin’. At the very least, it meant there was no rogue running rampant and the cleanup was dealt with almost completely smoothly—

That is, until Damian was snatched mid air by the tall and imposing figure of a man, grabbed by the collar of his cape like a kitten as he kicked to struggle to get free.

Dick -or well, Nightwing- turned to attack and then stopped in his tracks. That man was big, definitely bigger than Bruce was now, with a shock of white hair amidst black and his face covered by both a domino and a red metallic mask over his nose and mouth. None of them heard him move near them, despite the fact he was not a few steps away… he had managed to sneak up on all the bats, he could’ve done anything before they even relised he was present.

“I warned you, and you didn’t listen” the robotic voice came from the mask and its modulator “You’re fucking grounded, you little piece of shit”

Damian twisted to kick him in the chest despite being held up in the air, although the man didn’t even react or move at being hit. The boy wasn’t upset though, grinning as if he’d just won their little spat, which in a way he had.

“Hi, baba” he said innocently “you look really nice tonight”

#batman #batfam #damian wayne #bruce wayne #dick grayson #jason todd #no batman au #fanfic #he’s here! #the boy is finally back!

[crossbackpoke-check]

hiii! just wanted to pop into your asks to say thank you so much for always leaving such lovely comments on my artwork! i just love reading through the tags you write for them, it makes my day. please never change! 💓 i loved seeing the ideas you had for the devil!nico/jack drawing i posted, they were SO adorable ( OH and the demon squishmallow is named dante, like dante’s inferno )! again, thank you for being so sweet!

no YOU thank you so much for creating such wonderful artwork!!! it’s an absolute joy to get to see it, i’m so glad you choose to share it with us 💕💕💕💕 thank you so so much and it makes me so happy to hear that you like my tags 🥺🥰☺️ ALSO!! that’s so cute 😭😭 i love that the devil squishmallow is named dante it’s alliteration and clever

#i can promise i will continue to be an enormous fan of you & your art #not even kidding!!! i can’t believe this!!! did you feel me working up the courage to talk to you!!!! #me about to come into your dms like ‘hi i just needed to say i literally HAVE NOT stopped thinking about your devil!nico i love him so much’ #‘it’s been a week & yesterday i went ‘ok but nico’s pointed nails r like. natural stilettos they r PERFECT for nail polish :) demon spa day’ #that’s cosmic FATE baybe 🥰🥰🥰 same brain same brain same brain (the brain is love & appreciation) #liv in the replies #anyway. guess who just looked up squishmallows & was like haha what if there’s a jack russell terrier one for jack and GUESS WHAT #there’s not but there IS a little black cat exclusive 500 edition squishmallow named jack who has the cutest little 😌 face & #‘can be a little feisty but he loves to cuddle’ i’m on the floor wheezing of all the squishmallows to be named jack. it’s a little black cat #(notably a *spooky* animal witch familiar which. jack summoned a demon) & it’s exclusive & has a pale pink nose/mouth he’s DELICATE & PRETTY #QUINN IS A KANGAROO I REPEAT QUINN IS A PEACH KANGAROO INTROVERT quinn eldest daughter kangaroo pouch thesis… macropods #luke is a little lamb 🥺 i would have said a puppy but he’s literally the baby the 8’’ version comes w/a rattle HE’S PART OF THE BABY SQUAD #have i devolved into looking up hockey players as squishmallows? YES BECAUSE THERE’S ONE NAMED JOELLE & IT’S BIGFOOT LIKE ARE YOU KIDDING ME #joelle is part of the sassy squad and i am slowly losing it because there is also a winter joelle AND an aus winter joelle #which is exclusive to australia & i did think about the line where joel goes ‘cool have you ever seen a koala’ to raff & wheeze laugh softly #laying my head down on my desk &weeping verbatim from the site connor the cow is at the finish line waiting 4u! connor is quite the athlete #plus serge(i) the skeleton bird… sid the snail… stevie the cactus… nathan gamer cat mackinnon… i’m having too much fun #i don’t NEED squishmallows but also the desire to buy dante just because of devil!nico has been slowly growing stronger #also me: but what if u reread the inferno so u can pick out a title for the fic u are(n’t) going to write & use that as the demon structure #oh editing also 2 say: if u didn’t want me to publish this i can take it down! i do Not know how to answer asks privately even after years

[rosie-b]

Your Lies (Tell the Truth)

Written for day 8 of @adrinetteapril - Soulmate Markers

Every child knew the legend. Many adults were lucky enough to have experienced the reality of soulmate marks for themselves. Even Alya and Nino had figured their bond out! This seemed like an open and shut case.

But as Marinette stopped to look closer at the black ink she didn’t remember putting on her skin, her mind raced as she tried to determine what else it could be, other than a soulmate mark. Because it just couldn’t be, right? She’d been the only one to confess her love. Adrien had rejected her.

(I promise it's not too angsty; there's some crack and fluff as well!)

You can read the fic below or on AO3!

It was here.

Marinette had spent months both dreaming of and fearing this moment; she’d tried both to finally reach and forever avoid it, but the time had finally come— today was the day she’d finally worked up the courage to tell Adrien she loved him. 

She’d imagined all the best outcomes, the ones where Adrien smiled and said he loved her too, where they went out to get ice cream and then started dating and got married and had two or three or four kids (and a hamster). She’d spent hours trapped in nightmares of the worst ways it could go, where Adrien laughed at her and had his father ban her from ever working in fashion or talking to his son again and Chloe found out and then Lila, and Alya and her parents, and….

Suffice it to say that she’d imagined a variety of ways this moment could have gone.

But now that it was here, none of those scenarios matched what was happening in the moment. None of them had captured the pain like heartbreak in Adrien’s eyes that followed the shock of her confession. None of them had prepared her for the unsure, gentle way he tried to turn her down.

She didn’t know how to react to it. What do you do when you tell the nicest boy in the world that you love him, and all he can do is say no, he has to say no, and the ground doesn’t even have the decency to swallow you up with your shame?

“I’m sorry, Marinette,” Adrien had finally said, his sad, green eyes hardly daring to meet hers, “I just don’t feel the same way. It wouldn’t be fair of me to date you while I’m still trying to move o— er, I don’t want to hurt you the way I hurt Kagami,” he stuttered out. “You’re an amazing girl, Marinette, and I like you a lot, but I don’t trust myself to be the partner you deserve to have. I don’t want to play with your feelings, or make you feel like a second choice. Besides,” he continued, rubbing the back of his neck, and looking at her tentatively, “Weren’t you and Luka…?”

Marinette tried to answer when Adrien’s voice trailed off, but she found that her throat had closed in on itself. She couldn’t speak through the lump sitting there. She just shook her head, looking up at Adrien bravely while she held back her tears. She’d known this was going to happen! She shouldn’t have bothered trying.

Adrien’s eyes widened as the silence grew longer. “Oh, no, please don’t cry, Marinette! I’m sorry, I didn’t want to hurt you, really, but I did, and I’m so sorry!”

“It’s okay,” she rasped out, hating how feeble, how broken her voice sounded. “You can’t help how you feel. I get it, Adrien. I, I’ll be—” I’ll be fine, she tried to say. But the words wouldn’t come out, and all she could do was be grateful she’d waited until the end of the school day for her confession. This way, she could offer Adrien a pitiful smile and wave and walk away from the scene of her heartbreak. This way, she could suffer in peace until she managed to put the shattered pieces of her heart back together. 

It’s okay, she told herself as she waved to her friends (only friends) and barely managed to not run, but walk to her home. You’ll be fine. So he doesn’t like you back. So what? You’ll be fine. You’re a big girl; you’re Ladybug; you’ve got this. 

She had trouble believing her own encouragement. And she still felt like something in her had died the moment Adrien’s smile had slipped off his face, the moment she knew he’d be turning her down.

Marinette started walking a bit faster.

__*__*__*__*__

Adrien watched Marinette turn away, feeling useless and helpless and more miserable than he could remember having been ever before. 

Why did I have to turn her down? Why couldn’t I have just said yes and gone on a few pleasant dates and then accepted the breakup when she eventually realized what I’m like and dumped me?

Adrien wondered if he could still do something to salvage the situation; if he could run after Marinette and beg her to come back, to not hate him, to give him a new chance.

Before he could do anything, though, Alya grabbed his arm and yanked on it, pulling him closer to her before he could leave. “You better not be serious right now, Agreste! What were you thinking?”

“I wasn’t,” he responded, wincing at the tight grip Alya had on him but knowing that he deserved this pain. 

“Yes, you were. That response you gave her sounded practiced. Now, what was your reason for doing it?”

Adrien’s eyes widened. “I, uh, it’s Marinette; I didn’t want to, but I didn’t want to hurt her, either, and— I’m in love with someone else, right now. She's just a friend. That’s all it is, honest!” 

Alya frowned. “Okay, then, tell me who the lucky one is. Make me understand this faulty brain of yours. Who could you possibly prefer over Marinette?”

Adrien’s mind went blank as he tried to think of what to say. “Ladybug,” he blurted out, and slapped his free hand over his mouth as his heart tried to beat its way out of his chest. 

Not the truth, not the truth, anything but the truth! Why didn’t I just lie?

Alya’s eyes narrowed. “You turned down Marinette for Ladybug?? Oh, no, sunshine, absolutely not. With an excuse like that, you’d better be Chat Noir,” she fumed. Her eyes, blazing red-hot with fury, added the silent warning, or else.

Adrien gulped. “I, no! I’m not Chat Noir! Why would you think that? I mean, no, I didn’t, I’m actually in love with–”

Alya scowled and let go of Adrien’s arm. “Forget it, Agreste. You have the evening to get this figured out. Don’t walk into school tomorrow unless you’re going to do it with a real excuse. I understand having celebrity crushes, but I can’t excuse turning down a real chance with a girl as sweet as Marinette for a woman who’s about a thousand percent unavailable! Get your act together, now.”

She stormed off, grabbing Nino’s hand and tugging him along after her as she went. Nino turned his head over his shoulder to shoot Adrien a glance, but he couldn’t tell if it was a sympathetic one or not. Adrien was pretty sure Nino didn’t know which type it was, either. But he, at least, was still willing to look at Adrien despite the rather large mistake he’d just made, and Adrien was very grateful for that. He wasn’t used to even that much affection.

Maybe that’s why he’d made his big mistake.

__*__*__*__*__

Marinette had never been more grateful for the comforting magic of warm showers. She let the water run hot, stepped into a cloud of warm steam, and let the water run over her face, washing away the last of the salty tears she’d cried into her pillow under Tikki’s watchful, caring gaze. She huddled under the shower head, shivered once as her body adjusted to the new temperature, and took a moment to just breathe and feel a little more alive.

After a while, Marinette moved on to the real part of the shower. As she reached out to grab the shampoo bottle, though, she noticed a large black squiggle on her forearm, and her heart stopped. Was it a spider?

No, it wasn’t. But it looked like writing… and Marinette knew she hadn’t gotten a tattoo or written on herself with a pen recently.

There was only one other explanation she could think of…

On the day when all bonded soulmates have confessed their love to each other, the lies they tell will show on the other’s body for twenty-four hours after the last confession.

Every child knew the legend. Many adults were lucky enough to have experienced the reality of soulmate marks for themselves. Even Alya and Nino had figured their bond out! This seemed like an open and shut case. 

But as Marinette stopped to look closer at the black ink she didn’t remember putting on her skin, her mind raced as she tried to determine what else it could be, other than a soulmate mark. Because it just couldn’t be, right? She’d been the only one to confess her love. Adrien had rejected her.

And yet, her skin must not have gotten the message, because there, in thick black letters on her left wrist, was the sentence “I just don’t feel the same way.”

Suddenly, the warm shower didn’t feel so magical anymore. The afternoon’s messy confrontation had followed her inside the pure white stall, and she didn’t feel safe there anymore. But even though there was a pit in her stomach, she knew that if this was truly Adrien’s soulmark on her, then she still had a chance.

There was more black ink twisting around Marinette’s elbow. Hesitant, broken, and hopeful despite the rejection, she read it out loud. 

“It wouldn’t be fair of me to date you…”

Marinette felt like either screaming or crying again. Maybe both. She and Adrien were soulmates, then? But how had his marks shown up on her skin, when she’d heard a rejection, not a confirmation of his love? Had he somehow confessed his love to her before today, and she’d either missed it or misheard it? Had he been disappointed and moved on and now, when she’d finally confessed, he wasn’t even in love with her anymore? 

Or worse, were they the kind of soulmates where one person loved the other romantically but the other person held a platonic kind of love, instead? Had his oh-so friendly rejection been enough to trigger their soulbond, like some twisted blessing-turned-curse?

Marinette didn’t know how she’d survive that. She couldn’t handle knowing she’d made a fool out of herself by confessing to an unrequited love; she couldn’t fathom ever falling out of love with Adrien Agreste, either. Was she doomed to a one-sided love forever?

There were three last lines of ink, with the first two being on her right forearm. Marinette turned it over to read them apprehensively. 

“She's just a friend." Ouch. "And... I’m in love with someone else, right now,” she mumbled aloud. Huh. She didn’t remember him saying that. It must have come out after she left. Okay, well his loving some other, more perfect girl was understandable, but it still stung. 

But wait! If this was something Adrien had said today, and it was on her skin in his writing, it was a soulmark. And if it was a soulmark, then it was a lie, because the only things you can say that will appear on your soulmate’s skin are lies! So, Adrien didn’t love someone else!

“I must be dreaming,” Marinette muttered to herself. “Tikki!” she called as loudly as she dared, stepping out of the shower and wrapping a towel around herself as she did so. “Tikki! Come look at this; help me out!”

Tikki zoomed over at high speed. “Marinette! What is it?”

“Tikki, look, look at the marks! We’re soulmates; Adrien and I are soulmates! How are we soulmates?? He said he doesn’t love me, but he was lying, but he still turned me down! So why are the marks here; how is this possible? Did he confess his love while I was walking away? Or why else do I have soulmarks now? I don’t remember him ever confessing to me in the past!”

Tikki stared at the marks for a moment while her holder panicked, and a slow grin spread across her face.

“Marinette, this is amazing! But I can’t actually tell you why your soulmarks showed up today,” she added with a twinkle in her eye.

Marinette paused. “Wait, but you do know why they’re there, then?”

Tikki nodded, unashamed and still smiling. “Yes, but telling you the reason would be a serious breach of Adrien’s privacy. The only way I can tell you is after you’ve figured it out, yourself.”

Marinette frowned. “Fine. But, hold on, there was one more soulmark I haven’t read yet.”

Tikki’s eyes widened. “Oh? Where is it?”

Marinette twisted her arm around, straining to see the mark. “It’s just past my right elbow. Here! Look, it says, ‘I’m not Cha….’”

Tikki and Marinette both stared at the soulmark for a minute and then slowly turned and stared at each other, instead.

“I’m not Chat Noir,” they said in unison.

Marinette fell backwards, catching herself on the wall just in time. She propped herself as her mind raced, piecing together black skintight suits and white overshirts; sly smirks and kind smiles. They all belonged to the same boy, the quiet one in her class and the boisterous one always proclaiming his undying love.

“Well, that explains it, then,” she said dazedly, as memories of a candlelit picnic lovingly set up on a rooftop surfaced in her mind. They really were soulmates! Now, the soulmarks’ sudden appearance made sense.

Even if the first soulmate confesses years before the last, once they have all confessed, the marks of their bond shall appear as proof of their love for one another. 

__*__*__*__*__

The next day, Adrien walked into school feeling more timid than a mouse and about as innocent as a flea during the Black Plague. Or maybe a certain cheese-loving cat.

His plan was to sneak into school, because Nathalie had given him a Look when he’d tentatively suggested that he was possibly not feeling all that well and asked what Father would think if he stayed home earlier that morning. So, he had to go to school, despite Alya’s warning yesterday. He’d sneak past Alya, sit in the back of the class, and only say something during roll call before falling silent for the rest of the day, so that Marinette (and Alya) could forget he existed. 

Adrien had had an absolutely miserable night and made no progress on finding a cover for why he’d turned down Marinette, but he was sure that however bad he was feeling, she’d be feeling ten times worse. The least he could do to help was stay out of her hair.

But that turned out to be unnecessary. When he saw Marinette waiting by the top of the stairs at the main entrance, bouncing on her heels and barely suppressing what seemed to be a huge grin, Adrien wondered if he’d somehow teleported to a different universe. Was Marinette… happy? Not that she couldn’t be happy, of course! It was only that he’d expected her to be much less bubbly and much more stutter-y and shy and, well, sad.

It was cool that she’d moved on so easily, he admitted! But for some reason, the thought of it made his chest ache. He should be happy for her, so why was he feeling hurt by her smile?

“Adrien!” Marinette called as soon as she saw him. Every nearby student heard her voice and fell silent or muttered quietly to each other in response to it. Had they all heard about what had happened yesterday? Was everyone in on what was going on now? Was this part of an elaborate plan by Marinette to get revenge? 

Was that why she was happy? Because she knew soon, she could get back at Adrien for breaking her heart?

That just couldn’t be it, though. Adrien might be stupid sometimes, but he knew Marinette well enough to know she’d never do something so cruel to him, or anyone else, for that matter.

He walked up to her, shyly raising one hand in a wave. “Hello, Marinette,” he said. “You look happy! Um, are you feeling better? I’m so sorry about yesterday, I don’t know what I was thinking! I was so rude and I hurt you and I understand if you never forgive me but—”

“It’s okay,” Marinette said, flippantly waving one hand in a dismissive gesture.Then she stepped forward, her eyes glinting determinedly as she spoke to  him in a very serious, confident manner. “I don’t love you. I’m in love with someone else right now. And one more thing: I’m not Ladybug,” she added, by now having stepped close enough that she whispered the last part into his ear while standing on her tip-toes.

Adrien’s heart plummeted all the way to the second circle of hell.

“What?” he gasped out, feeling unreasonably hurt, crushed, even, by the words Marinette had dropped on him like a heavy building he couldn’t crawl out from under. Was he this unloveable, that she’d moved on so easily? 

Then again, if he was going to be alone forever, maybe he deserved it after what he’d done to her.

“I don’t love you,” Marinette repeated, smirking, and he flinched. Then her gaze softened, and a smile took the place of her cruel smirk. “Give me your arm,” she told him.

Adrien stared at her. “Why?” he asked in a cracking voice, feeling fearful and a little bit trapped. “What are you going to do with it?”

Marinette giggled. “I need to show you something, before it’s too late,” she said. “It’s probably under your shirt.”

“Under my—?” Adrien hadn’t finished his sentence before someone was pushing him forward, right into Marinette’s arms, and she reached down for his shirt sleeve and folded it up past his elbow.

“Look here,” she said authoritatively, presenting him with his own forearm.

What? Adrien thought, and he slowly processed what the sudden appearance of Marinette’s hurtful words on his arm in black ink meant.

“I don’t love you,” Marinette repeated, and the words appeared on his arm as she spoke them. “And I’m not Ladybug,” she whispered again, giving him just enough time to see the new words appear before she folded his sleeve down again to cover them.

“I— you— Marinette,” Adrien gasped out, feeling stunned and relieved and more than a little awestruck by this wonderful person that he already loved, who still returned his affection somehow, and who— “Oh, my goodness,” he breathed. “Marinette, we’re soulmates!”

Marinette grinned and nodded, doing her little wiggle-dance she always did when she was happy.

“Yes!” she agreed, cheering.

“Yes!” Adrien cheered right back, and picked her up and spun her around. “I love you! No, wait, I want to see your marks, too. I don’t love you,” he tried, and black ink peeked out of Marinette’s shirt and sprawled onto her wrist. “I don’t love you,” he repeated, and more ink appeared at her neck.

He knew what it meant, and Marinette knew, too, and that knowledge was temporarily theirs to play with. So they smiled at each other and stood marveling over the beautiful lies stamped on their skin.

“I don’t love you, either,” Marinette said with a giggle, and Adrien held his hand up in awe as more ink appeared there.

“I don’t love you,” he said one more time, loud and happy, and an ominous thud came from behind him.

“Adrien Agreste!” Alya boomed. “I told you not to come to school if you couldn’t do it without hurting Marinette!”

Marinette smirked. “It’s okay, Alya,” she said, holding up her left wrist, bare except for Adrien’s words. “I don’t love him.”

Adrien searched and searched for the words until Marinette pointed them out on his forehead.

Alya stared at the two of them, relieved and yet still visibly taught with nerves. “Well, I wasn’t expecting that,” she remarked, putting one hand on her hip. “Nino and I never did this. We just lied about favorite colors and future dreams. Like normal people. But, this is cute, too, once you get past how weird it is, I guess. You figured it out, then?” she asked, looking at Adrien.

He nodded, feeling one last guilty twinge that was wiped away by the black writing he could still see from the corner of his eye. “I’m sorry it took me this long. Wait,” she didn’t mean ‘did you find out each other’s identities,’ did she? “Wait, which part were you asking about?”

Alya smirked. “Well, the whole school knew you were in love with Marinette before you did, apparently. How does it feel to be the last to know?”

Marinette slipped her hand into his as Nino’s stifled laughs sounded from somewhere nearby. How long had he been watching them for?

“Be nice, Alya,” Marinette chided playfully. “It just took a while to get through his thick skull. I swear, his mind is a bag full of cats sometimes!”

Adrien stared down at Marinette with pink cheeks, feeling happily surprised by her pun.

“I love you so much,” he said seriously, and she giggled and leaned against his side.

“I love you, too,” she responded, and Alya nodded, smiling.

“Now that’s the way it’s done,” she said in a satisfied tone. “Agreste, you’re on my good side again. So, if you’ll let me do the honors, you may kiss the bride!”

Marinette shrieked as Alya grinned evilly and Nino laughed and cheered Adrien on.

So, he pulled Marinette into a quick, soft kiss. It wasn’t their first, he knew, but he was glad he’d finally be able to remember this one, so he dedicated the gentle brush of Marinette’s lips to his memory and grinned in what he knew was a dopey manner as he pulled away.

Then Marinette was yanking him back down for another kiss, and he could only imagine that this was the definition of bliss. Who cared about being on time to class? He had the best soulmate in the world, and he was content to just stay in her arms.

#soulmates #adrinetteapril2024 #ml fanfic #adrinette #ml au #rosie-b writing #miraculous ladybug

[sh1-n0bu]

O M G i just had a thought. like, you know how kuni is so desperate for validation. this leads me to believe he has a massive praise kink. like he just LOVES LOVES LOVESSS being praised for anything not just during sex but.. ahaha he loves being called your good boy, he's your good boy and he always wants to hear it 🥺

✿ 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚 ✿

characters: scaramouche x nb!reader

warnings: fluff, light angst, domestic fluff, scara might be a bit OOC, takes place after scaramouche’s defeat

notes: oh yea def. i feel like him, xiao, heizou, childe, venti, kaeya and diluc would be super into praising. outside of the bedroom as well, since they grew up pretty touch and affection deprived, they would want to DROWN in that shit

‘growing up’ with the knowledge that the person you see as your mother only sees you as a puppet is going to fuck up one’s mind and mentality a lot

not only that but he also kept losing the people he opened his heart to so he just… gave up

joining the fatui and becoming one of their strongest has hardened him beyond any comprehension

every nice words or actions are taken as something with an ulterior motive behind

he can’t even go a day without thinking over what you meant by saying you like his hat

was it a threat? are you trying to get close to him? if so why? could you be a spy? better check on your background

however being defeated and getting a nice therapy session with mama nahida has made his mind place a bit better and healthier

doesn’t mean he would immediately let down his guard the moment you smile at him though

getting into a relationship with him would take a long time but it will all be worth it in the end

would always want to be praised or validated by you, his darling s/o

“mhh you made delicious pancakes love! mind teaching me your ways?”

“hmmp! of course i would. who do you think you’re talking to anyways?”

as if he didn’t had a mental breakdown while practicing to make the perfect pancakes for you every morning until he fully grasped it🙄

would go even far as buying a cook book and trying everything on the book while you’re away on work, so he can make you happy and get a praise or a smooch in return

but he will never in his 500 year old life admit it

a tsundere gremlin

when out in public, he would want to at least hold hands with you but he’s so nervous because what if you don’t like pda? what if you hate how clingy he gets sometimes? are there any fatui in the area?

and when scaramouche finally grows the courage and links your pinkies, he’s over the moon

literally giggling, kicking the air, shouting his victory, jumping around in his mind but he wouldn’t show it ‘cause he’s scaramouche😤

in private he will get clingy, don’t test him

would literally drag you back to bed when you’re getting ready for work just so you two can cuddle

will demand you to ask your boss to give you a break today so he keep cuddling with you

a spoiled brat smh🙄

would want to be praised 24/7 and is willing to do anything for it

cooking? as long as the kitchen isn’t burned down then it counts

sewing the rips and tears in your clothes? what are you, a kid?

getting more control over his vision, his new heart just so he can impress you with a new trick he learned and get a smooch as a reward? hmmph! he already mastered his vision now where’s his smooch [name]?

please praise him and call him cute cheesy nicknames, he will love and cherish it so very much

“hey, i didn’t threaten anyone today. where’s my kiss [name]?”

“but i don’t remember making a deal like this scara??”

“yes we did! now give me my reward kiss!”

spoiled baby🥹

#nobu.writes #scaramouche fluff #scaramouche angst #scaramouche x reader #scaramouche x you #genshin x reader #genshin impact x reader fluff #genshin impact scaramouche #genshin impact x reader #genshin x you #no beta we die like rex lapis #nobu out🫡

[sirianasims]

It’s the first day at the lab. Cora feels slightly intimidated. The compound towers above her. University did very little to prepare her for this.

“Uhm… hi, I’m Cora Duchelli? It’s my first day. Am I even in the right place?”

“Oh, Cora, welcome! Of course, let me buzz for Shayla, she’ll give you the tour.”

Shayla quickly shows up, taking Cora to meet her new co-workers.

She meets one of the senior scientists, Payton. He is going to be her supervisor until she gets settled in.

Another colleague is Elsa. Cora finds her very pleasant, and she also went to Foxbury when she was younger

Cora even gets to tinker a bit with the machines before heading home for the day.

“… and then I was having lunch with Payton, and he told me that I’ll be working on improving their satellite tech. They think it’s mainly a range problem, since we know the coordinates of Sixam.”

Every day, Cora works on the inventor, tweaking and improving the satellites. She also learns more about her co-workers.

For example, it’s barely a secret that her supervisor Payton has something going on with Elsa.

And the receptionist is really tired of their shenanigans. Payton and Elsa are both married and have kids. It’s all a little awkward.

Cora gets along pretty well with her supervisor, though, and he is clearly impressed with her skills. It doesn’t take many weeks before Cora gathers up the courage to ask to work on the rocket programme itself.

Payton agrees, he seems to believe that the rocket technology might help inspire a new approach to the satellite system, and gives Cora the needed security clearance.

Cora can’t believe her luck. She begins looking at ways to upgrade the rocket immediately.

Cora suspects Payton only agreed so willingly because it leaves him free to spend time with Elsa.

beginning / previous / next

#duchellilegacy #duchellichapters #duchelligen2 #cora duchelli #aidan martin

[msmischief101]

♫ Pairing: Steddie ♫ Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Robin Buckley ♫ Tags: mild dom/sub, hand jobs, getting together, pining ♫ Words: 3202 ♫ Kinktober - Clothed Dom/Nakes Sub

ao3

---

(not so) innocent

---

“Okay, but—”

“Steve.” Robin raises both hands fast enough that her beer should’ve spilled all over her fingers. But even the beverage knows not to interrupt an exasperated Robin Buckley. “I’ve seen you pick up an — admittedly quite large — amount of girls since working at the video store. How hard can it be? Give Eddie one of your stupidly brilliant smiles full of Harrington charm and the man’s knees are gonna turn into pudding.” 

Steve has a hard time believing that anything could turn Eddie’s legs into pudding, but he’s also survived shit he never thought he never thought existed; so, who is he to judge, really? Groaning, Steve runs his fingers through his hair. If he’s perfectly honest, he’d rather face Vecna again than risk having his heart ripped out. Besides, all the evidence he has of Eddie being into guys is Robin’s gut feeling — and his bandana, if his dear best friend is to be trusted. 

“Oh good god, have you been this stressed the first time you asked out a girl?” 

Steve grimaces a little. “Would you believe me if I said yes?”

“Absolutely not.” 

“Then no.” 

Robin snorts. At least one of them is amused by his inability to flirt with Eddie Munson. It should not be that hard. But Nancy’s ‘bullshit’ is still ringing in his ears. It cut deep. Not because he still loves her, but because he was happy, and she played him for a fool. She treated him like his parents do and then turned around to make it his fault. Despite being friendly now, Steve would lie if he said it did not scar him. 

“Hey.” Robin pokes his chin. “Just ask him.” Her smile is one of her rarer, softer ones, and she straightens Steve’s collar unnecessarily. 

“Okay, but how exactly do I politely ask him to slam me against a wall and make out with me?” It’s not something Steve ever considered to be interested in until Eddie did just that – well, the first part. They haven’t exactly gotten around to making out seeing that Eddie threatened to cut his neck open with a broken bottle.

Steve still can’t believe that was one of the hottest things to ever happen to him. 

“Use your words.” Robin pushes her beer into his hand. “Turn on your Harrington charm. You’ve got this.” Getting with Vicky changed Robin’s whole perspective on love. It’s exhausting. 

Steve is insanely jealous. 

“Now, go get your man.” Robin pats his cheek and slips out of the kitchen, where they’ve been hiding out to talk about Steve’s little crisis. 

He grimaces and sips on Robin’s beer. She won’t drop this tonight or ever unless he’s putting in some form of effort. So, a little liquid courage is probably going to make this a little easier. Maybe. If he’s lucky. Biting the inside of his cheek, Steve surveys the pool area. It’s quite the odd mix of people with Eddie’s gang — minus the kids, of course, something Dustin sees as the single greatest offense ever — a few of Nancy’s as well as Vicky’s friends. Even Jonathan and Argyle decided to swing by. It’s a very sharp contrast to the people Steve used to party with. 

Eddie, however, is nowhere to be seen. 

That’s entirely unhelpful. 

Steve sips on the beer again and pushes away from the counter. Well, Eddie wouldn’t have left without telling him. Maybe he went up to the bathroom. He’s going to grab some snacks, be the perfect host, and somehow manage to get Eddie alone. He’ll also have to figure out how to not sound like a fucking idiot while testing the waters. “Bowls.” Steve puts the beer down and rubs his temple. “Bowls, bowls, bowls.” His mother’s bimonthly desire to rearrange the whole kitchen is seriously annoying. 

“Above the sink.”

Right. “Thanks.” Good thing Eddie knows his kitchen better than— Steve whips around. Eddie. “Hey.” 

The grin on Eddie’s lips is the smallest bit unnerving. “Hi there.” 

Something about his tone and body language tells Steve that Eddie has not just stepped into the kitchen. There is no passing the kitchen when you go to the bathroom. “Sooo,” Steve drawls, trying to casually lean against the counter — as if that somehow made Eddie potentially hear his conversation with Robin go away, “how long have you been standing there?” 

Eddie’s grin widens. “Longer than you’d like.” 

Fuck. 

“That’s what I was worried about.” Steve runs his fingers through his hair. This is not how he wanted this to go. In a perfect world, he’d be extremely smooth instead of awkward. But luck hasn’t been on his side for a while. “Okay, Eddie, listen. I—“

“Does it have to be a wall specifically?” 

Steve blinks. “What?”

“Well…” Eddie looks almost sheepish as he steps closer ever so slowly. “You want me to slam you against a wall and make out with you. But I’m wondering,” his voice drops so low, it’s barely audible over the noise from outside, “if we can maybe improvise?” 

What? 

Steve opens his mouth, but the question seems to have been very much rhetorical because before he can even think about an answer, Eddie has him pinned against the counter, hands on his hips, and he kisses him. Without any hesitation. 

Shit. 

Shit. 

Steve groans. He’s dreamed about this for so much longer than he’s ready to admit. His hands fly to the back of Eddie’s head, fingers curling into the curls to hold him in place. He can feel Eddie laugh much more than he can hear it, and the vibration hits him like nothing. Steve groans again, and this time Eddie slides his tongue past his lips. 

It sends his head spinning. 

And then he snaps back. “Wait,” Steve mutters and pulls just enough away that he can speak properly, “the others—”

Eddie quirks a brow. “What about them?”

What about them? That’s a good question. It’s not even that Steve would be bothered if they saw him kissing Eddie. He doesn’t care what they think because he knows the one that matters won’t have an issue with who he’s in love with — who he likes. He really needs to slow down. He’s got to be normal about this for once. 

Eddie kisses the tip of his nose when Steve doesn’t reply. “Robin used her right as your best friend and kicked them all out.” He kisses the corner of his mouth, pulling him closer. “You’re having a migraine.” 

Steve smiles a little. Robin could have embarrassed him by telling everyone he was throwing up or having diarrhea. He loves her. More than she might be able to understand. “Well,” Steve says slowly, grinning at Eddie while his heart is potentially trying to run away from him, “since I’ll be dealing with you…”

Eddie crashes their mouths together again. There’s another chuckle before he pulls away for a retort, “don’t get bratty on me, Harrington.” The words are painted against his lips. His voice is dark and rough and the hottest thing Steve has ever heard. He never thought a voice could get to him as Eddie’s does right now. 

But he stands corrected. 

Steve pushes away from the counter and wraps his arms around Eddie’s waist. Kissing him— being kissed senseless, Steve tries to walk them over to the stairs, but they’re bumping into everything and refuse to separate. Eddie’s hands roam over his body, settling mostly onto his ass and keeping their crotches deliciously close. 

They’ll never make it upstairs. 

When Eddie bumps against the couch, he spins them around. Without warning, Steve finds himself pinned against the cushions with the other boy on top of him. He’s into girls, he really is, but there's something about having Eddie on top of him that makes this whole experience a thousand times hotter than anything he’s ever done before. It’s a little surprising if he’s being honest. Eddie is his size. His body is firm and lean, and he easily pushes Steve’s legs apart to slip between them. 

Steve is both overwhelmed and very much into the way Eddie takes control of the situation. It’s also more than a little unexpected. Eddie didn’t seem like someone this forward. 

Looks like Steve was wrong about that. 

And he’s not going to complain — especially not when Eddie grinds their hips together in a way that makes Steve’s mind melt. He gasps into the kiss, mesmerized by the sensation of Eddie’s erection moving against his own. It’s then that movements become a bit more hectic. They’re pressing against each other. Kissing and biting. Hands exploring unfamiliar bodies. They’re taking the edge off, trying to satisfy this first hunger. 

Not long after, Eddie takes control back. His hand slips under Steve’s shirt, and he pushes him against the couch, keeping him there without any problems. Either Eddie is a lot stronger than he looks, or Steve is more willing to do whatever the other wants him to than he first realizes. Eddie sucks his bottom lip between his teeth. His fingers fan out over Steve’s abs, rings cool against his skin. The sound he makes in the back of his throat goes straight to Steve’s dick — something that does not escape Eddie’s attention. 

He pulls away with a shit-eating grin and drags his thumb over Steve’s swollen bottom lip. “If somebody told me,” Eddie whispers, his voice deliciously rough, “I’ll have King Steve writhing underneath me, I’d have declared them insane.” 

Steve huffs out a breath. 

“Don’t huff at me.” Eddie leans down to kiss the corner of his mouth before leaning away and sitting back on his leg. Tipping his head to the side, Eddie studies him. There’s still obvious hunger in his eyes. 

So Steve isn’t sure why this distance is happening. “Why did we stop?”

“Because I wanna savor this.” 

Steve twists a little, not entirely sure what to make of this. “Savor this?” To be fair, if Steve were in charge, somebody would be missing clothes already. But Eddie is an amazing kisser. It’s addicting, and so very hard to stop. Steve licks his lips — heartbeat picking up as dark eyes follow his tongue — and props himself onto his elbows. “You wanna go slow?” 

“Absolutely not.” 

That doesn’t make sense, or does it? “What?” Steve sits up, regretting his choice of pants a little more right now. “Is this about your bandana?”

Eddie’s brows vanish under his messy fringe. “My bandana,” he echoes, but it’s obvious he knows exactly what Steve’s talking about. “You wanna know about my bandana?” It’s the dirty grin that gets to him, and the way Eddie’s eyes catch on his obvious erection for a little longer than necessary. “I don’t think you’re ready for that, sweetheart.” Eddie chuckles as if enjoying a joke only he is in on. “I don’t wanna ruin your innocence.”

Innocence. 

Heat rushes into Steve’s cheeks. He’s not sure if it’s because of indignation or embarrassment. Either way, he kicks Eddie’s thigh softly. “I’m not innocent.” Steve has enough experience to be considered an expert. Well, at least when it comes to women. But he knows what feels good to him, he surely can use that to figure out what Eddie enjoys. It’s sex. It’s the one thing he’s really good at.  

“If that were true,” Eddie says, and his grin grows impossibly bigger as he curls his fingers around Steve’s jaw in a strangely mind-melting way, “you wouldn’t have asked me about my bandana now.” He leans closer, close enough that they should be kissing, but they don’t — and Eddie makes sure it stays that way. “Would you, King Steve?” 

Steve cannot shake his head. He swallows then breathes, “no.” 

“I’m going to have so much fun with you, Steve Harrington.” Eddie kisses the tip of his nose again then suddenly pulls away. “Get up.” 

“What?”

“Get up.” Eddie gestures for him to move. 

Even though Steve is confused, he follows the command and slips off the couch. His legs feel a bit like jelly, but he shifts onto the spot Eddie indicates anyway — the second he does, he feels strangely exposed because Eddie is looking at him. He doesn’t say a word, just cocks his head to the side, eyes darting across his body as if he’s looking for something. Steve pushes his hands into the pockets of his jeans to stop himself from fidgeting. The last time he’s been this nervous was when he ended up face-to-face with a Demogorgon for the first time. It doesn’t help that Eddie looks at him as if he wants to eat him alive. 

Steve licks his lips. “So—”

Eddie leans forward, snatching the words right out of Steve’s mouth when he looks him dead in the eye. “Strip.” The authority in Eddie’s voice is unlike anything Steve would have suspected. Then again, maybe he should have. He is the leader of his little club after all, and with everything Dustin told him— “Steve,” Eddie coaxes him out of his thoughts. “Don’t make me repeat myself.” 

Strip. 

Steve clears his throat. He shouldn't be this fidgety because of such a request. There's never been an issue in the locker room or the showers. What is it about Eddie that makes him so insanely nervous about being looked at? He's attractive. He knows he is. 

Okay.

Steve grabs his shirt by the nape of his neck and pulls it over his head. When he sees Eddie again, his eyes have gone from searching to studying. It's like he's trying to remember every part of him, every single mole and hair and imperfection. 

Eddie leans back, eyes heavy and hooded. He spreads his legs. The way he's palming himself through his jeans is more than inviting. 

But Steve stays where he is because Eddie said so. He keeps undressing because Eddie told him to. He’s never been very good with orders, but something about this whole situation, about the way the other boy sounds and looks at him. Somehow Eddie makes him feel like the single most attractive human in the world. So, he gets rid of his shoes, and socks and wiggles out of his jeans and boxer briefs together.

And it's really only when he is standing in front of the couch completely naked that Steve is glad they don’t have any neighbors. He’s still very much on display, Eddie’s intense gaze makes sure of that. Steve shifts a little, resisting the urge to cover himself up. It's not that he’s insecure. Steve knows he’s not unattractive, but Eddie is— Steve swallows. Eddie is just staring at him. Not saying a single word; and if not for the fact that his erection is visible in his jeans, Steve would have been extremely anxious. 

Eddie leans back, legs spread, and still fully clothed. It’s infuriating but strangely hot at the same time. He indicates for Steve to come over, and he starts to move before he even fully registers it. “Look at you,” his voice is a husky whisper, and leans forward a little, grabbing Steve by the back of his thighs. “You’re so cute.” He grins, curling his fingers around Steve’s cock without breaking eye contact. “And I don’t mean cute in an ‘I’d like to pinch your cheeks’ way.” He’s pumping him so fucking casually it melts Steve’s brain. “I mean cute like I wanna bend you over the couch and have my way with you.” 

Steve moans. He’s not entirely sure if it’s because of his words or how Eddie drags his thumb over the tip of his dick. 

“You’d like that, Stevie?” 

Fuck.

“Yes,” he breathes, running a hand through his hair. This isn’t his first hand job, not even close, but something about Eddie’s fingers and the rings and— fuck. It feels way too good.

A little too good. 

Eddie lets go of his dick and pulls Steve closer by his thigh. “Come on, baby,” he whispers, fingers ghosting over his skin. “Sit on my lap.” His voice is barely anything more than a husky whisper. He knows what he’s doing, or maybe Eddie just knows what all of this is doing to Steve. Either way, it works. 

Fuck, it does work a little too well.

Steve follows the command, shuddering as the rough fabric of the jeans scratches the inside of his thighs. He wraps a hand around the nape of Eddie’s neck and kisses him again, highly aware of the other boy’s hands roaming all over his naked body. The girls he’s been with have never been as bold as Eddie is right now. They wrapped their arms around him to hold him close. But Eddie’s hands are everywhere. He is raking his nails over his back and sides and squeezing his ass, easily causing Steve to melt into him in the most delicious way possible. 

Eddie’s all-but-dominant behavior is everything Steve never knew he needed. Something about it makes Steve a lot more confident in the situation. He slips a hand between them, working Edie’s belt and pants open without any trouble. He slips his hand into the boyer shorts and wraps his fingers around Eddie’s hard cock. 

Eddie groans into the kiss. His grip on Steve’s ass tightens momentarily. “Fuck,” Eddie breathes, letting go of Steve’s side to grab his dick. 

Even though the angle is a bit odd at first, Steve pretty quickly gets used to working Eddie in a way that coaxes the most delicious noises out of the other boy. Steve cannot get enough of it, the rough fingers on his cock, the jeans scratching his thighs, Eddie’s little noises — everything is too much and not enough all at once. 

“Eddie,” Steve moans. 

“Yes, sweetheart?”

He doesn’t know. He doesn’t fucking know. He just— “Eddie,” he breathes, feeling his orgasm build and build and— “Eddie, please.”

Eddie slaps Steve’s hand away and wraps his long fingers around both their dicks. 

Steve holds onto Eddie’s shoulders and watches the other boy’s skilled fingers work on them. It’s so fucking hot — the way Eddie just knows, the way their dicks slide against each other in the tight grip. 

“Come on, baby,” Eddie whispers, squeezing his ass again. “Come for me.”

And that’s all it takes. Steve comes with Eddie’s name on his lips, spilling his release all over his hand and rings — his fucking rings. 

Eddie follows not long after, meaning Steve’s name unabashedly. It’s a sound to die for. 

Steve leans their foreheads together, trying to catch his breath. 

Sighing softly, Eddie wraps his arms around his waist and pulls Steve a little closer. “Next time,” he says, dragging a finger down his spine, and Steve shudders in his arms, “I’ll bend you over this couch and fuck you until the only word you can remember is my name.” Eddie nudges their noses together, a gesture so out of place together with his words. “Got it?” 

Steve nods, heat flushing his cheeks. “Yeah, got it.” And he can’t fucking wait for it either. 

“That’s what I want to hear.” Eddie kisses him again. 

Next time. Steve’s heart hammers against his chest, and he cannot help but grin into the kiss. Next time.

#steve harrington #eddie munson #steddie #stranger things #steve x eddie #eddie x steve #kinktober 2022 #*tv:stranger things #*w:complete #*w:kinktober2022 #*s:steddie

[upindreamland]

Mother’s Day - Jonah Marais

Jonah Marais x fem!reader (she/her pronouns) oneshot

Summary: Husband!Jonah and your kids surprise you on Mother’s Day. What I imagine Mother’s Day with him would be like (fluff)

Warnings: Cursing (not really). Fluff and Jonah being really in love. (Let me know if I missed anything)

Y/C/E: Your color eyes Y/F/M: Your favorite movie

Italics: Flashback

AN: MY SECOND POST!!! When you’re done reading come and talk to me if you want!! Please enjoy!

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Jonah’s POV

Waking up next to my beautiful sleeping wife, I can’t help but smile. It only grows bigger when I realize what today is. It’s Saturday and today’s Mother’s Day. Y/N and I have four kids together and another one on the way. Our oldest Benjamin, or Ben, is seven years old. Next is Andrew who is five years old. The two youngest kids are twins Hayden and Amanda. They are only one years old. The little pea my wife is carrying has only been there for six weeks.

When I first met Y/N, I knew she was the one. We met at a movie theater. I was walking out of the bathroom looking for my band mates when I ran into something, better yet, someone. Popcorn flew all around us, and when I looked up, I swear my heart stopped for a second. Y/N was the most gorgeous woman I have ever seen. I could get lost in her Y/C/E eyes if given the chance.

When I snapped out of my gaze, I started to apologize. Smiling, she told me that it was alright.

“It’s alright, it’s not like everyday I bump into a handsome stranger.”

Blushing, I quickly responded with:

“You’re right. I can’t believe I just ran into a literal goddess. You know what would make this even better?” I say gathering up courage to ask for her phone number.

“No… what is it?” She asked, eyeing me slightly.

“Your phone number….”

Needless to say, it worked out perfectly. I asked her out, and six years later we got married. Now we have this incredible family.

Quickly getting out of bed, but making sure I didn’t wake up Y/N, I walked over to each of our children’s rooms. Waking them up with the same phrase:

“Wake up bubs, we have to go make mama’s breakfast. It’s Mother’s Day.”

Going downstairs, I strap the twins into their seats so they can watch me and their big brothers work. Halfway through making Y/N’s favorite breakfast meal, I get a text. Before I even see the screen I know it’s my wife.

After finishing up Y/N’s breakfast and putting it on a tray for breakfast in bed, I go to grab her gift. I also tell the kids to get their presents for her. When we have everything we need, we head upstairs. Like I told her to do, Y/N is asleep snuggling my pillow. Softly shaking her, her eyes start to open.

Y/N’s POV

Feeling someone softly shake me, I slowly open my eyes. In front of me are my three boys, daughter, and husband. A smile quickly appears on my face. Sitting up and leaning against the headboard I ask:

“Hello my loves. What is all of this?”

They all break into a smile. As if they’re one person, they say in sync:

“Happy Mother’s Day!”

Jonah’s POV

Seeing Y/N’s eyes light up when she looks at us, makes my heart swell. She loves all of us so much and will do anything for us.

Walking over to her, I put the tray of food on her lap.

“We made you your favorite breakfast and we each have gifts to give you after we watch a movie together while you eat.” I inform her. Leaning over to kiss her, I can’t help but smile. After all of these years her kisses still make me have butterflies in my stomach.

She nods and I beckon the kids over to the bed. Putting on Y/F/M, we all snuggle together while she eats her breakfast.

*after the movie is done*

“Alright kids let’s give momma her presents. Like always, the youngest goes first.” I excitedly tell our kids.

Amanda gives Y/N a little drawing with her handprints that she probably did at school.

Hayden gives her a rock that has a face, clothes and hair.

Andrew gives Y/N a tiny jar with positive words that describe her.

Ben gives her a photo album full of his favorite images.

After each gift, Y/N gives each kid a kiss on the cheek. Thanking them, she pulls them into a group hug. Squealing they hug back. When they let go she turns to me.

“And what about you mister?” She teasingly asks.

Laughing, I pick up a basket full of things Y/N loves. Giving it to her, I wonder how it’s even possible that her smile gets bigger. Looking through everything, she puts the gift with the other ones and pulls me in for a kiss. It’s passionate and lovely until we have to pull away hearing our kids fake gagging. Y/N not being able to hold in her giggle let’s it out.

“Sorry kiddos. I just love your daddy very much. Thank you for such an amazing surprise.” She exclaims happily.

“Oh there’s more to come honey. It’s only the morning. Come on let’s go get ready so we can go to the next surprise.”

The expression on her face makes me chuckle. I couldn’t be happier with my wife and kids. This is exactly how I want to spend the rest of my life. I can’t describe the emotion I’m feeling, but I know I love my family so fucking much.

Instagram

jonahmarais

Liked by yourinstagram, corbynbesson, jackaverymusic, imzachherron, seaveydaniel, jonah_yn_lover, and 95,786 others

jonahmarais: Happy Mother's Day to Y/N and all of the amazing mothers out there. All you mothers are such incredible and strong women. Y/N thank you so much for giving me such a wonderful family. I couldn't ask for anything better. I love you so much. Hope you all have a great day!

tagged: yourinstagram

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yourinstagram: Thank you so much baby! I love you. You are the best husband ever!

corbynbesson: Awww, you guys are so cute. Happy Mother’s Day Y/N!!

jonah_yn_lover: Ahhhhh!!! Omg the content we fucking deserve. Did Amanda make this? Y'all are just so cute.

↳ yourinstagram: jonah_yn_lover yes she did! I think she made it at school

seaveydaniel: You're making me want to have a child of my own. I don't know how you guys handle four and one more coming 😫

jackaverymusic: Lav misses you guys. Especially Amanda. Btw Lav says hi. She literally started smiling when I showed her this post

↳ yourinstagram: jackaverymusic AWWWW Amanda says hi too ☺️

imzachherron: HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY BEST FRIEND!!! Okay sorry for yelling. I'm just very excited for no reason at all.

_limelight_fan: Ahh it's so weird to see Jonah as a dad of almost five. He was just a little baby a couple of years ago. I'm going to cry

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yourinstagram

Liked by jonahmarais, imzachherron, seaveydaniel, corbynbesson, jackaverymusic, _limelight_fan, and 85,466 others

yourinstagram: I have such a wonderful family. Thank you to Jonah and my kids for making this day extra special. Thanks all of you for the wishes. I got some amazing gifts from my four children and husband. This is just one of them Love you all!

tagged: jonahmarais

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jonah_yn_lover: I'm so jealous. You have such a great family. I love you both so much. Have a great day Y/N.

jonahmarais: I love you too baby. It's the least that I can do to thank you for pushing four kids out of you and one more to come.

imzachherron: Those are some pretty flowers… but not as cute as my niece and nephews

seaveydaniel: Y/N can I come over and play with my niece and nephews? I also want to wish you a happy Mother's Day in person.

↳ yourinstagram: seaveydaniel of course. They want to see you too.

↳ jackaverymusic: yourinstagram seaveydaniel I'm coming too. Daniel might need some help watching them. Plus they're all so cute and squishable.

↳ _limelight_fan: seaveydaniel I love how cute and supportive the boys comments are. Hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day today Y/N. You deserve it.

corbynbesson: Dang it Jonah you beat me. I wanted to comment before you did. Oh never mind. All I can see is flowers but I can feel the love through the screen. Love you both.

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AN: THE END!! I hope you enjoyed. If you can’t tell I have a little bit of an obsession with fake Instagram posts lol. More posts to come. If you have any requests feel free to let me know!! Have a great day.

-Kara (upindreamland)

#upindreamlandfile #jonah marais #wdw jonah #why dont we #wdw corbyn #fsm #fake social media #fake texts #instagram imagine #wdw daniel #wdw imagines #why don’t we imagine #why don’t we #whydontwemusic #jonah marais imagines #jonah marais x reader #imagines #jonah marais fanfiction #fake instagram #Jonah marais imagine #zach herron imagine #daniel seavey imagine #corbyn besson imagine #jack avery imagine #jonah marais fluff #jonah marais one shot #why don’t we fanfiction #husband!jonah #husband jonah #husband jonah marais

[just-dino-maggie]

Prompts List

“Honestly, I rather die than stay in the same room as him”

“What the hell are you doing in my house at 3 in the morning?”

“I can’t believe I have to do this work with him”

“You’re so fucking annoying! And- wait, are you hurt?”

“Why is it so hard for you to admit that I’m better than you?” “Who said it’s hard for me?”

“Are we…” “Friends?” “Yup, that was definitely what I was about to say”

“Are you guys dating?” “No, I hate him” “Really? Because he was praising you so much the other night” “He was what?” “Oh, so you care?” “No! I don’t, I couldn’t care less”

“Why do you guys hate each other so much?” “He’s just annoying” “She’s too damn pretty… I mean, boring”

“I know I’ve hurt you, but please, only for today try to understand me, I’m not asking for your forgiveness… well, kinda, but-” “You don’t need to ask that, I already forgave you a long time ago”

“I hate him, I definitely hate him, who does he think he is to kiss me after all he did?” “I know that wasn’t nice, but why are you so nervous right now? You could just pushed him away like always” “Because I’ve might liked it”

“I’m freaking out, at the beginning it was fun to tease her, but now it’s just scary, I am feeling things when she looks at me”

“Are they fighting again?” “Worse, they’re kissing”

“Sometimes I hate you so much that things get confused in my mind, like right now, I was almost pulling you in to a kiss”

“Things were easier when you hated me back”

“Not gonna lie, you angry actually makes me feel… hot”

“When you’re shut up I almost like you”

“Wait a minute, did you just choke on your whiskey because (Y/N) is dating that asshole?”

“Today was weird” “Super” “But I kinda liked it dancing with you”

“I know I shouldn’t, but I’m falling for you”

“You’re making me dizzy, and not because of the usual reasons”

“Love’s certainly more complicated than I’ve ever thought”

“Yesterday I realized I miss you”

“Why don’t you hate me anymore!” “cause every single good memory I have, you’re there”

“We should talk about what just happened” “I refuse to talk about how I just lost control and kissed you”

“You’re my motivation every single day”

“Dare me again, and I’ll break you off”

“I’ve never been in love with someone but you, always you.”

“What are you talking about? We’re best friends!”

“C’mon, what are you guys even talking about? We’re nothing more than friends” “Well, what was that kiss another day then?” “A friendship kiss…?”

“Are you… jealous?”

“Did you just kiss me?”

“One last thing before I go, you really didn’t notice all those signs I gave to you?”

“If I stay here tonight and sleep by your side again, I won’t be able to control myself, not today”

“You’ve always been more than a friend to me, I just didn’t had the courage to admit it, and now I’ve lost you”

“Do you remember? When we were twelve? We promised to marry each other, being honest, I always hoped you wouldn’t broke this promise”

“I think I messed things up, I’m not in love with her, I’m in love with (Y/N)”

“We should stop pretending” “Pretending?” “That we’re just friends”

“I want to ruin our friendship”

“We’re only friends, stop being a pain in the ass” “Well, he wasn’t talking about you as a friend yesterday” “He did what?”

“I don’t care about who’s she’s hanging out with, she can do whatever she wants” “Even if she’s hanging out with your archenemy?” “I beg your pardon?”

“So, for how long are we gonna pretend we don’t love each other more than friends?”

“You’ve been my best friend for all these years, and I’m really grateful for everything you did to me, but I can’t stay here watching you fall in love with someone else, because the truth is… I’m in love with you”

“Everytime I look at you I feel my heart breaking, because I need you, desperately, and you never notice”

“Am I an end-of-party love to you? ”

“Don’t cry, you don’t need to hide your feelings, I feel the same”

“Well, since we were kids I planned to marry you someday”

“I’ve been waiting forever to hear that”

“Sometimes I allow myself to imagine a future where we are together, a future where I can hold your hand and bring you closer and when I’d smile to you, you’d call me ‘love’, a future where I am more than a friend ”

“Yes, I’ll clean your mess once again, I’ll do it, but not because we are friends, because I am fucking in love with you”

“There’ll be a day where I’ll look at you and all this pain will be gone”

“Fuck, I’m sorry okay? But I can’t hide my feelings anymore”

“Did you just… wait, you love me?”

“Dance in the rain with you will always be my favorite thing in the world, cause in those moments, I feel like you love me back”

#nhl imagine #usa hockey #trevor zegras #jack hughes #matt boldy #luke hughes #hughes brothers #nhl #usntdp

[streets-in-paradise]

Ready for the Good Times - Andy Barclay x Reader.

Requested by @livsterriblesecret​

“  Can you do an Andy fic where Andy and reader are both 18 and reader is like innocent and Andy feels like they're too nice for them and reader reader just comforts him with cuddles and movies while telling him the deserves all things nice.” 

Word Count 1 K

Warnings: None, this is all clean. 

Summary: Andy can't believe that he is dating you, a person so nice and innocent that brings light into his life. When he finds himself forced to reveal his dark secret to you he is sure that you are going to leave him, but you unexpectedly prove him wrong.

Tags: @losersclubisms​

He never imagined he would meet someone like you. After so much time in the dark, Andy forgot that lightfull people existed. In his opinion, saying that you were adorable was getting short as a description. Right during your first meeting, when he was helping you with some street indications to reach the place for a job interview, you already did your thing being unbelievably nice to him. In the course of the interaction he figured out that you were heading to his very same place of work, meaning that you were one of the probable new additions to the staff, and when he commented on it you got somehow even more excited. You ended up gifting him a lollipop you had in your pocket along with your thanks for the help and you smiled so sweetly that he could swear he felt dizzy just by staring at your cute face. Trying not to get distracted with your tenderness and beauty was his new work challenge, since you actually became coworkers later. 

After over a month of constant casual interactions he finally got the courage to ask you out, what obtained an answer of the sweetest excitement from you. As dates progressed it all felt too wonderful to be true, Andy was falling for you a little bit more every day while being absolutely unused to feeling like that. Your loveliness was impossible to ignore, but it made him feel guilty about allowing the relationship to keep evolving. You were so nice and innocent, always positive and bright. Being with you was like dating a Disney protagonist, but his life was more like a horror movie. Most people that came across him had a grim end and some of them seemed more prepared than you to face something like Chucky.

You didn’t deserve to be dragged by the darkness following him, Andy felt he had to face you were simply too nice for him and you would be better without him. 

The first time he was at your place seemed to serve as a confirmation for his painful doubt. A first look inside your bedroom showed it was full of plushies and dolls, which made his old instincts kick in. As soon as you left him alone he began to search the place to make sure you didn’t have a Good Guy. It wouldn’t matter if it wasn’t a Chucky. Even if you once were one of the many kids that had a good childhood owning a normal doll that you would keep for nostalgia, he felt obliged to get it out of your house. 

He had enough of that ‘ I am Tommy’ bullshit as a seven year old. 

“ Have you lost something, Andy?” Your voice interrupted him from behind while he was searching in the closet. “ Don’t worry, I lose things all the time here.” 

Any other person would have kicked out the weirdo touching their personal stuff, but you didn’t seem bothered about the violation of privacy aspect of the scene. 

“ You have so many dolls… I wondered if you happen to have a Good Guy.” He attempted to excuse himself. “ It’s important, those things make me uncomfortable.” 

“... Good Guys, I remember those! The redheads with the rainbow striped shirt! So cute, I wanted one when I was a kid but they got them out of the market too fast. A real shame, they looked so huggable in the commercials!!” 

It was the sort of answer he expected from you, a proof of why things between you may never work despite how badly he wanted it to do so. 

“ Why do they upset you?” 

You invited him to sit on your bed and held his hand, heart melting tenderness that incited Andy to be honest with you. If that would be the end, at least he wouldn’t carry the guilt of lying to you and possibly endangering you. 

“ I got one for my sixth birthday… and it came to life, but it wasn’t like in Toy Story.” He started to explain, eyeing the Woody doll on the corner. “ Chucky attacked and killed many people trying to possess me. Inside of him there is the soul of a serial killer and he has chased me for my entire life. Most of the time I think he will never stop haunting me.” 

“ Where is Chucky now?” You asked immediately, no hesitation. “ Have you tried locking him in a cage? If he can’t go to human prison, make him go to doll prison.” 

Andy was blatantly shocked seeing you display an impossible reaction. It was as if you believed him automatically, no questioning. 

“ … How do you?..” 

“... When I was a kid I saw fairies in the backyard of my childhood’s home, I believe. “ You cutted him off. “ I lose things because of the leprechaun, he takes the cream i leave for the fairies in case they want to visit me again.`` 

He was no one to judge. if Chucky, a serial killer, was able to do magic he was probably not the only one out there. 

“ A leprechaun visits your house? “ 

“ He comes and goes, I notice because I find my shoes polished and he steals most shiny things he finds.” 

It sounded weird, but adorable. He couldn’t help smiling and you clung to him in a hug. 

“ Don’t worry, Andy. If Chucky ever comes, the leprechaun will protect us.” 

The whole situation was simply unbelievable to him, but not because of your leprechaun. 

“ Why are you so sweet to me? I told you something that can potentially kill you and now you are the one comforting me.” 

“ I do it because I like you. I wouldn’t be dating you otherwise, dummy. You deserve nice things and I am here to give those to you, that’s what people who fancy each other do for one another.” 

You were right and he couldn’t put that in question, so he closed the matter with a sweet kiss that got you a bit blushy. Immediately afterwards you were already putting into action a full comfort plan to cuddle on the living room couch watching fantasy films, adding to it a little detail that was just too nice to handle on his part. 

Aware of his issue with toys, you gifted him the little dog plushie that was one of your favorites in childhood. Caramel, named after its fur color, was very special to you and he understood quickly how great that show of support was. 

Perhaps he just had to get ready for the good times.

#andy barclay #child's play #andy barclay x reader

[siderealscribblings]

Devil Summoner: Akechi Goro vs the Phantom Thieves Chapter 14: Suffer for Your Art

The Residence of Madarame Ichiryusai Akasaka, Tokyo

"Madarame-san? It's Officer Yoshizawa with the Cyber Security Task Force…are you home?"

Sumire's knuckles ached from rapping on the door so much without answer. The longer she and Shiho stood on the stoop, waiting to be allowed inside, the more she had to pretend to ignore the flurry of questions coming from reporters over her shoulder.

"Miss, have you spoken with Madarame-san?"

"What is his reaction to the Sayuri's change?"

"Is this disappearance part of the exhibit? Did Madarame-san plan this in advance?"

"Are the Phantom Thieves responsible for this?"

"Remain calm," Morgana purred from the backpack on her shoulder. "You don't have to give them an answer."

"I know," Sumire muttered, trying to ignore the flashing camera lights coming over her shoulder. "Can't the police move them back a little?"

"There's no room on the street," Shiho sighed, slamming her palm hard on the door. "Madarame-san, our colleague is meeting with the prosecutor to determine how to proceed with this case; he will either give her your explanation for the Sayuri's transformation or ours !"

"What's our explanation?" Sumire whispered.

"That's for Madarame to worry about," Shiho said, perking up as the locks clicked open. "See?"

A slim, dark-haired teenager stuck his face through the crack in the door, carefully hanging in the shadows to avoid the lenses of the cameras. "A-Apologies…sensei isn't feeling well enough to answer the door at the moment."

"We can come in if that's easier," Sumire suggested, offering her badge. "But I'm afraid this is official business; your master's painting has been defaced, and-"

"Sensei is already aware of that," the boy mumbled, eyes trained on the stoop beneath Sumire's feet. "H-His lawyers are reviewing his statement; please be patient as we…as we consult our counsel."

Those aren't his words, Sumire thought, trying to see into the darkness of the house behind him. Someone told him to say that…

"Put me down," Morgana whispered from the bag. "I have an idea."

"We have reason to believe the Phantom Thieves will make another move tonight ," Sumire lied, lowering her backpack to the ground behind Shiho's legs. "If there is any information your sensei can give us; anything to suggest why he was targeted like this-"

"Thank you for your work, officer," the boy mumbled, moving to close the door. "W-We will make our statement when we are ready…"

"Wait." Shiho's hand slammed on the door as it started to close, badly startling the boy in the process. "Look at me for a second."

The boy's jaw quivered, and for the first time Sumire noticed how tired he looked. The skin on his fingers was puffy, red, and cracked where it wasn't completely stained with white paint. For a moment, it looked like he wanted to say something, but before he could work up the courage, he slammed and locked the door again.

"...he's scared of something," Shiho said with absolute certainty.

"How can you tell?" Sumire asked.

"I know what scared kids look like," Shiho said softly. "Something or someone is terrifying him…and he feels like he can't even ask for help."

Something seemed to lend weight to Shiho's theory; something that concerned Sumire but not quite enough to ask about it. As she bent down to pick up her sack, she found it curiously several pounds lighter.

Where did he...no, he didn't.

"That old painter is really gonna make us get that warrant, isn't he?" Shiho sighed.

"Maybe we won't need it," Sumire said, nodding at a cafe across the street. "Let's get some tea while we wait."

"For what, Madarame to have a change of heart?" Shiho asked.

"No…for Morgana-senpai to finish his investigation," Sumire murmured, glancing back at the house behind her.

Read More >>

Start From the Beginning >>

#my writing #persona 5 fanfic #smt fanfic #akeshu fanfic #polythieves #In which Morgana is a Ninja #Shiho is Done #and tracing artwork literally summons demons

[forasecondtherewedwon]

44 and any Topgun ship (I couldn’t think of one but this one made me laugh!)

Anon, knowing that prompt made you laugh was a great additional direction on how to interpret it... and which ship it was absolutely made for.

44. “You’re a virgin? How?”

prompt list

Something About the End of the World

Fandom: Top Gun: Maverick Pairing: Mickey “Fanboy” Garcia/Robert “Bob” Floyd Rating: E Word Count: 1643

After landing safely on the carrier, Mickey’s high on adrenaline and feeling courageous, so he tells Bob, “You were a real Sam out there,” because it’s the highest honour he can bestow.

Bob thanks him, sounding a little baffled, but he doesn’t otherwise react, and it’s such a crazy day that Mickey doesn’t even remember paying him that compliment until Bob brings it up a few days later when they’re back in San Diego.

“What did you mean when you said I was a Sam?” Bob stops him in the hallway to ask. He’s staring at Mickey intensely, the way Mickey used to stare at his abuela’s staticky TV when he was a kid, trying to absorb the plot of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles episode through the wobbly picture quality and patchy audio.

“Samwise,” Mickey explains.

“Oh. I thought you were calling me a missile.”

That makes Mickey laugh.

“SAM like surface-to-air missile? No! That wouldn’t make sense!”

“Right,” Bob agrees, smiling uncertainly. “Because… you meant Samwise. Uh, obviously. Of course.”

Mickey’s nodding happily until it catches up to him that he and Bob might not quite be understanding each other, and clear communication is vital. They’re back-seaters; it’s in their job description.

“From The Lord of the Rings,” Mickey reminds him gently.

“Oh, ok.”

Mickey’s eyes narrow.

“Sam Gamgee,” he says.

Bob’s exaggerated expression of comprehension is what solidifies it for Mickey: Bob has no idea who he’s talking about. He cocks his head to the side, his smile asking Bob not to bullshit him.

“Ha,” Bob laughs, short and breathy. “Ok, yeah, I’ve never seen those movies.”

“You’re a virgin? How?” The words burst out of Mickey and appear to stun Bob. Both their faces warm as Mickey hastily corrects, “A Lord of the Rings virgin.”

“I guess I am. I don’t know. I guess I just never really got into, like, fantasy?”

“But it’s so much more than fantasy! It straddles multiple genres!” He ticks them off on his fingers. “Adventure, drama, war, coming-of-age, epic romance. If you include the scope of Tolkien’s original works, you have to add poetry and—” Mickey cuts himself off, clenching a fist in front of his mouth to contain himself.

“Are you… mad at me?” Bob checks, looking worried.

“Bobby-boy, you are one in a million,” Mickey says on a sigh. He drops the fist and breaks out in a wide smile. “I can’t believe I get to introduce you to The Lord of the Rings.”

“I know some stuff. There’s, there’s… sword fighting. And good-versus-evil. And stuff. But I’d…” Bob nods. “…Yeah, I’d like to watch it with you.”

“Clear your schedule—”

“Uh, the mission’s over. All our schedules are clear.”

“—because there are three films, plus special features.”

“You’re the kind of person who says ‘films’ instead of ‘movies’?” Bob asks with a pained look on his face.

Mickey blows past it.

“If you’re serious about this—”

“I’m only, like, vaguely curious,” Bob murmurs.

“—then you need to prepare for it to consume the next several days of your life. Factoring in breaks for sleeping and going to the bathroom.”

He fixes his eyes on Bob’s. Bob takes a deep breath in, then nods.

“I’ll do it,” he says.

Mickey can’t resist pulling him into a hug. Why should he? He’s been resisting that urge basically since they met, when Bob told them his name and inelegantly swept peanut shells off his lap. Mickey gets attached fast and he falls hard, as the wealth of Lord of the Rings memorabilia he’s collected over the years can attest.

“Spoken like a true Sam,” he says, squeezing Bob tight.

—

Mickey couldn’t decide between inviting everybody so his movie marathon with Bob won’t feel like a date and inviting no one else so it does feel like a date. Torn, he just invited Reuben.

“What are we watching?” Reuben asks, striding into Mickey’s quarters and giving Bob an upward jerk of his chin in greeting.

“The Fellowship of the Ring,” Mickey says excitedly. He’s leaning forward on the couch, having just cued it up on his laptop. Bob’s already crunching away on the heap of popcorn he just poured into a large bowl.

“Nope.”

Mickey turns as Reuben backs away.

“What?”

“I can’t watch those movies again.”

“But you love Eowyn!” Mickey reminds him. “We’re watching The Two Towers next!”

“I do love Eowyn, but I also love not losing several days of my life I can never get back,” Reuben says. “Those movies are great in small doses—”

“Peter Jackson did not put his entire lifeforce into these movies for you to say you prefer them in small doses. Reub, it’s an epic. It’s… it’s… it’s the Third Age of Middle Earth, man, come on!”

“One, I know I’ve told you before how creepy it is when you say ‘lifeforce.’ Two, you can give Peter Jackson my apologies in your next fan letter, but you’re not gonna talk me into this right now. Those movies are a time suck.”

Mickey glances at Bob who’s chewing and listening intently. He looks back to Reuben and frowns.

“Don’t scare Bob.”

“Get out now,” Reuben hisses at Bob.

“It’s alright,” Bob assures him with a smile. “I wanna see them.”

“He’s a Sam,” Mickey explains.

At that, Reuben’s mouth curves into a sly smile.

“Oh,” he says, “he’s a Sam. Try to keep Sting in your pants then, Frodo.”

Bob chokes, but Mickey has to point out, “Only a fan would remember the name of Frodo’s sword. You’re in denial.”

“Actually, I’ll be in de-next room seeing what the normal people are doing. Have fun, boys.”

Mickey flips Reuben off affectionately before he shuts the door, leaving Mickey and Bob on their own.

He glances at Bob.

“Ignore him. You’re gonna love this movie.”

“I’m excited,” Bob mumbles through a mouthful of popcorn.

“Good.”

And Mickey’s excited too. He’s excited as the One Ring’s treacherous history is revealed, as Howard Shore’s iconic score shifts from horror to Hobbits, as Frodo leaps into Gandalf’s cart and he gets to quickly explain how they tricked the camera to make Elijah Wood look so much smaller than Ian McKellen. What’s surprising him is that he’s not excited about the movie, or even Bob’s reactions to it (well, he is, but it’s not the main thing)—he’s just excited about Bob.

During Bilbo’s birthday speech, their hands brush inside the popcorn bowl. Before Frodo even holds the Ring in his hand for the first time, Mickey holds Bob’s, the popcorn forgotten as their fingers intertwine. Mickey barely has a chance to say, “That’s Sam,” before Bob sets the popcorn aside completely and Mickey reads it as an invitation to shift closer on the couch. Before Merry and Pippin collide with Frodo and Sam, Mickey collides with Bob: he takes a deep breath and tilts his head to plant a kiss on Bob’s parted lips. For a moment, Bob blinks and processes this, but he’s a Sam after all, with wells of courage that make Mickey stary-eyed; Bob grabs the back of Mickey’s neck and yanks him into a longer kiss.

There are breaks. Brief ones. The Prancing Pony. The unearthly shriek of the Nazgûl on Weathertop. Gimli shattering his axe when he tries to hack the Ring in half like a total newb. Instead of detailing what they’ve missed, Mickey mumbles explanations too short to really be helpful, but Bob nods heartily and guides Mickey’s mouth to his again, and they return to the desperate work of fogging up Bob’s glasses and seeing who’s going to cave first and climb into the other person’s lap.

“I thought that guy’s name was Strider?” Bob checks dazedly as Mickey’s kissing his neck and unzipping his jeans sometime later.

“He’s got a lot of names,” Mickey pants. “Way more than they cover in the movies.”

“Like us, huh, Fanboy?”

Mickey grins against Bob’s throat.

“Yeah,” he agrees. “Like us.”

He ducks his head to Bob’s lap and Bob’s fingers scrape across his buzzcut as he sends a moan towards the ceiling.

By the time the movie’s drawing to a close, Mickey’s sitting on Bob’s lap with Bob’s hand down the front of his sweats. Bob’s hard again, so Mickey rubs his ass back against him in a slow grind that matches the steady pumping of Bob’s fist. Based on an agreement Mickey doesn’t recall making, they’re drawing this out, and it’s agony to be jerked off at such a relaxed pace. On the other hand, his body feels like butter melted back into Bob’s chest, legs spayed wide as he sits on Bob’s thighs. He can feel Bob’s heart beating against his back. And then the hitch that disrupts its rhythm.

Mickey twists to look at Bob.

“Are you ok?”

Bob’s eyes are shiny as he glances from the screen to Mickey’s face.

“Is Frodo really going to leave Sam?” he demands thickly.

Mickey gives him a quick kiss, cupping his cheek, then promises, “No. Look.”

He lets his head rest back against Bob’s shoulder and tears roll down both their faces as Sam wades out to Frodo, ready to drown before Frodo would think him disloyal. Frodo hauls Sam into the boat and Mickey’s never been given a handjob by someone who’s crying before (nor been crying himself as he receives it), but it somehow adds to the tenderness of the moment, in his opinion.

When it’s over and Mickey’s even more comfortably slumped on top of him, Bob’s arms wrapped around his waist, Bob asks, “You think I’m a Sam?”

“Yep.”

“And you’re Frodo. I didn’t see a lot of this movie, but I can see that.”

Mickey smiles and tips his forehead against Bob’s.

“I’m glad you’re with me,” he says to confirm it.

#my writing #Top Gun: Maverick #the Fanbob agenda #Bob x Fanboy #Mickey 'Fanboy' Garcia #Robert 'Bob' Floyd #Mickey Garcia #Robert Floyd #Fanboy Garcia #Bob Floyd #Top Gun: Maverick fanfiction #Top Gun

[wyverian-lady525]

THE ONESHOT FROM MY REQUEST WAS LITERALLY SJJDJHWSBAMAMD😭💞💞 THANK YOUU, YOU DID SUCH A WONDERFUL JOB TOO, THE ACCURACY OF THEIR CHARACTERS IS SO MWAH MWAH~!! I'm not even kidding when I say that I needed a ten minute water break to have a crisis when I saw the notification, requests actually being accepted really do be hitting differently to be honest

Buuut after reading it for the millionth time, finally gotten my damn courage back to both thank you for the lovely written story =) thooo... If you're maaybe open for doing a version for Sasuke Cheval as well👉🏻👈🏻 I mean, I won't say no( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Do definitely believe the scenario should be changed up a little though, as I'm pretty sure if he was in Hyoro’s place on that exact moment he'd legit just be like “oh no! Anyways, anyone want some kebab on a horn?” His current emo ass being so rude it ain't even funny😭

BUT, (un)lucky for you. I have about another hundred good ol' ideas in stock👍🏻 (Shh, it's ok to block me). So maybe instead of when they were trying to slaughter Ratha, it could take place right before Versa Pietru was about to be controlled by the Black Blight?

Once again, the reader is hella worried about Cheval and the last pinch of sanity left in him, they try convincing him but surprise surprise, he's too far gone bla blabla😒 they try getting him down to properly talk to him by force, but because of the pure rage he felt he willingly commands Versa Pietru to attack them causing fatal damage (Don't you just hate it when a Titanic sized dragon bites down on you like a chewtoy). Though considering when Rathi endured that hit for him, his mind finally became stable enough to understand that whatever he was doing was absolute bullshi- OKAYOKAY SORRY I'LL STOP NOW. Though now he'd also start to properly realise that he put the reader's actual life at major risk...

Ooo nice idea! Don't worry, you're no bother!😁 I love this, and I hope you enjoy! I know I always love when a request is fulfilled! Apologies too if this isn’t what you had in mind...I’ve been forgetting certain parts of the show

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Dread Before the Dawn

You try to get through to Cheval one last time before the darkness swallows him up forever. It doesn’t end as well as you thought.

“What would your mother say?” You shouted at your friend, who’s been consumed by hatred and rage.

Right now, you and your monstie were on top of Mt. Celion facing Cheval and the White Dragon. You didn’t understand how Versa Pietru could forge a bond with him after how much of an embodiment of strife he’s become. Your other companions were still struggling to catch up, so right now, it was just you and him. 

“Don’t talk about my mother!” He yelled at you, an angsty purple glow coming from that kinship stone he had. The White Dragon hissed as well, causing your monstie to growl in retaliation. 

“Can’t you see what you’re doing is wrong! Forcing that monster into this!” You pointed an accusing finger at the White Dragon, feeling a mix of rage and sadness when it came to this situation. You wanted to reason with the last pinch of sanity in Cheval, but you were worried he was too far gone.

“You wouldn’t understand! You never even tried! I’ve lost everything...this is my chance to take it all back!” He shouted at you, pure rage in his voice. You could clearly see now that all reason was thrown out the window. His heart has been consumed by revenge.

However, you still wanted to do everything in your power to save him.

“But that’s not how it works! This isn’t the way!” You shouted back at him, and he simply glared.

“It’s the only way I know that’s left...now get out of my way.” Cheval growled lowly, Versa Pietru flapped its wings aggressively and took to the air, glowering down at you and your monstie. You narrowed your eyes at him, heart beating rapidly.

“If you won’t listen to me...then I have no choice, Cheval.” You said while mounting your monstie, who snarled. You didn’t want it to come down to force, but it seems the boy you once knew was officially gone.

And there’s no changing that, but you made a mental promise to his mother to bring him home, no matter what.

You had your monstie charge at him, baring its fangs. You just had to get him off that monster, bring him down to your level. Tears pricked the corners of your eyes when you saw the actual hatred in Cheval’s once familiar and calming eyes. 

However, his pure rage made him do something that you didn’t see coming, although you should have.

He willingly commanded Versa Pietru to attack you. Because of this so-called bond that they had formed, the White Dragon obeyed his command. The strength and might of this elder dragon of exotic origin caught your monstie off guard. In truth, your monstie was no match. 

The little bit of success that you had in your mind faded in a blur of white.

You felt the titan jaws of Versa Pietru bite on your shoulder. The saddle of your monstie soon vanished beneath you as you were now high above the ground. However, you could hardly comprehend that due to the high stench of blood and intense pain.

Your body was soon flung into a crumbling relic not too far away, cushioned by the velvety snow.

That was soon stained by blood.

“I told you to stay out of my way...” You faintly heard as your monstie rushed to your side. However, you soon heard your heartbeat in your ears as the organ worked desperately to keep you alive. Your monstie curled around you, trying to warm you as much as possible.

The rest of what happened was a blur to you.

Your friends and allies showed up to face Cheval, who still seems to haven’t cared about nearly ending your life. Again, there was another showdown to try and reason with him that didn’t work. That seemed to be the last straw with Cheval’s false kinship. 

The White Dragon turned into the Black Dread.

As much as Cheval pleaded that he felt a bond, that his path was the right one, the now tainted elder dragon didn’t seem to care. An attack blew off his kinship stone, and Cheval went flying towards the cliff’s edge. And as your vision began to grow bleary and fade, you witnessed a flash a green shield Cheval from another devastating blow.

His screams were all you heard as you finally passed out...

When Cheval came to, he realized that his beloved rathian had come to save him. It was like a veil had finally lifted from his clouded vision. The darkness of his heart had been pushed away by the light of his monstie, and his beloved friends who tried to help him to begin with.

“Rathi...I’m sorry...” He said while moving to place a hand on the rathian’s snout, worried that she had taken her last breath in her efforts to save him. However, just as tears pricked the corners of his eyes, he heard a low growl.

Rathi’s yellow pained eyes were looking up at him.

“Oh Rathi...I’m so sorry...” Cheval said again, fully crying this time as he noticed the chipped spikes on her right wing. He bent down to give her a makeshift hug, grateful that despite it all, she came back to save him.

And then it hit him that she wasn’t the only one.

“Y/N...Y/N!” Cheval shouted out your name, sounding distraught. He knew you couldn’t hear him, not from where he was. It all came to him that he put your life in so much risk. The life of someone who meant so much to him, that only wanted to help him.

By the time Lilia found him, he was a puddle of tears and despair. 

Cheval wanted to find you and apologize immediately, even knowing it wouldn’t make up fro what happened. However, he has finally come to his senses, and realized the danger you were in.

That was his fault.

“Y/N...please be alive...I’m so sorry...” He muttered to himself as Rathi nudged him a bit. The real Cheval had finally returned. The gentle and caring boy that you had come to know and love was finally brought back to you.

Will you live to see him again?

That’s up for you to decide.

#monster hunter stories #monster hunter stories 2 #mhst #mhst2 #cheval #monster hunter stories cheval #cheval x reader #mhst2 cheval

[willgayers]

138 and 153. could you do edssy? please? 💖

138: “are you cold?”

153: “put me down!”

genre; fluff warnings; none ships; eddie x chrissy au

sorry for taking forever to write but i’ve been soooo busy with work

“i’m not kidding, eddie!” chrissy shouted out, her voice breaking into giggles as eddie was holding her over his shoulder. “PUT ME DOWN!”

“what’s that?” eddie teased, running around the pool, holding chrissy tightly. “its like this small noise coming from behind me but i can’t quite catch it.”

“EDDIE! i said put me down!” chrissy laughed, gently hitting his back with her fists. it was their first summer together, and they were hanging out at chrissy’s place cause her house was empty for the weekend.

“oh! now i heard you,” eddie said, and started walking towards the pool. “you wanted down?”

“NO!” chrissy’s scream broke with laughter as she noticed the pool getting closer and closer. “DON’T PUT ME DOWN!”

“put you down? okay!” eddie said, and chrissy began screaming; and then eddie tossed her to the pool. there was a splash, and eddie turned around to smirk at chrissy, who was now rising to the surface. her jaw was hanging low, and she stared at eddie. she was fully clothed, not even in her swimsuit, her t-shirt clinging to her body.

“hey gorgeous.” eddie tried to play it cool as if he hadn’t just threw her into the water. but she did look gorgeous; even with her mascara slightly ruined and ponytail hanging lower now.

“i can’t believe you just did that.” chrissy blurted out.

“did what?” eddie pretended to frown in confusion.

“oh you are so going down with me.” chrissy shook her head, and before eddie could fight back, chrissy jumped up and grabbed him by the collar, pulling him down to the pool. eddie fell down with a splash, and jumped up to the surface right away, gasping for air. chrissy giggled as she looked at him, his long hair draped all over his face like wet curtains as his eyes were squeezed shut, his mouth open, the hellfire club shirt soaked.

“oh you little gremlin.” eddie said, and chrissy only giggled more. eddie opened his eyes now that he figured they were dry enough, and as he saw the sight of chrissy all happy and chirpy, he got this warm fuzzy feeling in his chest. he loved how laid back chrissy had gotten in his company. she’d turned from the in-her-shell shy and insecure girl to this funny, full of life spark-in-her-eyes ray of sunshine, and eddie was absolutely and utterly in love with her. not that he didn’t love the girl she used to be, but seeing her in this state, seeing her this happy; it made him happy. it was partly due to eddie, that chrissy had changed. he’d given her the courage to actually be this way, not trying to fit into the molds made for her by her family, team mates, society. eddie made her happy. he made her feel alive. he made her feel loved; and chrissy loved him so much, too.

“now we’re even.” chrissy smirked at him.

“i guess so.” eddie said. “or wait-“

he swooshed some water at chrissy’s face, and chrissy gasped.

“now we’re even.” eddie smirked.

“you’re dead!” chrissy chuckled, splashing out water at eddie; which then turned to a splashing competition. the two laughed, water splashing all around them.

“OKAY OKAY STOP!” eddie covered his face. “timeout!”

“oh you’re such a baby!” chrissy mocked with a smirk, and eddie peeked at her from behind his fingers. chrissy chuckled, her smile going from ear to ear. 

“i only wanted timeout, so i could do this.” eddie said, and leaned in to kiss chrissy. chrissy smiled in to the kiss, wrapping her legs and arms around eddie, holding herself up against his body. eddie grabbed her waist, loving the feeling of her against him. it felt safe.

then chrissy pulled away from his face. she turned her face to the side, her nose scrunching up;

achoo!

she sneezed, and eddie raised his brows, before letting out an amused laugh.

“you cold?” he asked.

“no,” chrissy lied, a bit embarrassed.

“come on, let’s go back inside.” eddie said, giving her one more kiss to the forehead.

#eddie munson #chrissy cunningham #eddissy #eddsy #eddie x chrissy #eddie munson fanfic #chrissy cunningham fanfic #stranger things 4 #my writing

[drowning-artist]

Here it is! The full first chapter with an author's note and prologue (as well as some quotes). Hope you all enjoy this work from your Drowning Artist.

---

Note from the Author

I’m sitting here, blankly staring at the computer screen; I’m supposed to be working. I definitely have tasks needing to be done, but I couldn’t bring myself to do anything. I’m feeling a loss of passion, no drive for what I’m doing; especially with all of the changes happening in such rapid succession. As a kid, I never expected adulthood o be quite so dull. I’ve always longed for the extraordinary; delved into the fantastical worlds of the stories that I’ve read.

I’ve also felt a sense of longing at the conclusion of said stories. My heart would ache at the thought that I didn’t really know those characters and magical elements don’t exist in reality. Funnily enough, my passion has shifted to wanting to become a writer. A writer of these epic tales that really engage the reader and make them care for the characters as if they were their own friends.

Although I feel this desire, I’ve never found the courage to truly pursue it; until now that is. I don’t know if this will be a long adventure or a short walk. I really don’t even know what I’m going for genre-wise if I’m being honest. But, whatever it is, I hope you, dear reader,

Enjoy.

***

“Fantasy is hardly an escape from reality. It’s a way of understanding it.” – Lloyd Alexander

“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.” – Tony Robbins

***

I, Eleanor “Nell” Monroe, have never been particularly special or have ever stood out in any way. So why, or how for that matter, any of these events ever happened is a total mystery to me; but they did. And I can’t say that I’m entirely disappointed with how everything panned out, but we’ll get into that later. Allow me to set the stage if you will.

Moving is never quite as easy as most movies make it out to be. But living in a town that has so many negative connections for you really takes its toll after a while; so I did it. I packed my things, settled everything with my prior living arrangements, and loaded up into my Jeep. I was leaving this boring “coastal” Texas city and heading to Forks, WA.

Now I know what you’re thinking. Really, I do. But don’t worry, we don’t have wolves falling for minutes old babies or anything like that. There may be some cliches that I am most definitely not proud of, but I believe at this point I’m past the point of caring.

I fell in love with someone who may not be entirely human, if human at all, and for some unexplainable reason, he fell in love with me.

***

I’d just finished a long day of unloading, and then organizing said boxes into the different rooms. Not to mention I have the organizational skills of a hurricane. After resting for a few minutes, I decided to take a walk around the new area. It was around 8pm, so I didn’t expect too many places to be open aside from the local bar or so.

To my surprise, there was a little coffee shop the was open nights only, and they were just opening for the evening. I decided to stop in, I felt in the mood for a nice Café Mocha. A small bell dinged as I opened the door to shop and a young man, maybe 24 years old, looked up.

“Pleasant evening, miss. Welcome in.” he said.

I was a bit taken aback; you don’t usually hear people talking like that anymore. “A pleasant evening to you as well, sir.” I smirked.

“I don’t recall ever seeing you before; I know most everyone in this town.” He mused.

“That might be because I’m new in town.” I replied, “Just moved in today, actually.”

“That might be it.” He smiled a dazzling smile, “Can I get you anything?”

I was definitely caught off guard. I wasn’t expecting to meet any quite so… handsome, especially not at an evening coffee shop. I realized I was sort of staring at him and fixed my face.

“Uh… Sorry, yes. I’ll have a Café Mocha, extra Mocha, please.”

“Certainly.” He replied, still smiling warmly, and off he went to make the sweet concoction.

I went to sit at a chair in the corner of the shop; it was a comfortable arm chair that looked out onto the street. Since it was after eight, the roads were fairly quiet. In the background, I heard the coffee machine hissing with steam and the shop started to fill with the sweet yet bold aroma of coffee. I wished I’d brought a book, this would be the perfect place to catch up on some reading with it being open so late.

I pulled out my phone and started going through different apps; Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, I scrolled through my email, even swiped through Tinder to see if I could find anyone (or a particular someone) locally. I swiped left on a few guys, swiped right on one or two, but no match, unsurprisingly. I was still new after all. My swiping was then interrupted.

“Miss? Your Café Mocha is ready.” He said.

I pushed myself out of the big chair and claimed a seat at the bar. Since there was no one else and I knew virtually nothing about this place, it couldn’t hurt to try and get to know someone else close to my age.

“Thank you.” I told him as I settled into the new spot and took a small sip. “It’s perfect!” I said, grinning at him.

He seemed to be staring at me like I was at him a few moments ago, but when I made eye contact, he nodded his head to me graciously.

“I’m pleased that it’s to your liking. I’m nothing if not an expert barista, if I may be allowed to brag.” He chuckled.

“With coffee this delectable, I’d definitely say you’ve earned the right to brag.” I complimented, “How long have you been doing this for…?” I searched for a name tag, but couldn’t spot one.

“Forgive me, many around here already know my name, and we don’t frequently get new faces. My name is Sebastian. May I ask yours?” he queried.

“I’m Nell, it’s nice to officially meet you, Sebastian.” I smiled.

“Nell..? Perchance, is it short for anything?” he asked.

I shifted in my seat slightly, I was really hoping he wouldn’t ask. It’s not that I didn’t like my name, but there are some negative associations with it for me.

“Forgive me, again. You don’t have to answer.” He said quickly, noticing my discomfort.

I studied his reaction for a moment, “No, it’s alright. Nell is short for Eleanor, but please, just call me Nell.”

He smiled gently again, “Nell it is. So, what brings you to our little town?”

“A fresh start!” I proclaimed with a wide smile and then took another drink. “I used to live in Texas, and don’t get me wrong, I love my home. But where I lived, there were plenty of unpleasant people who go out of their way to make you miserable for the pure hell of it. Bad enough that they try to convince others that your partner cheated on you with them, let alone when you can’t even drive down the road without someone being a straight di-“

I stopped myself; he was watching me and his vibrant green eyes lit up when I stopped talking.

“No, please continue!” he coaxed.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to bore you with the extremely dull details of my life.” I said, looking down at the cup.

This was the first time I really noticed his smile falter. His expression turned to one of… concern? Anger? Surely not.

“I refuse to believe a person such as yourself could have such a ‘dull’ backstory. I would certainly love to hear it sometime. You mentioned a partner… but also a fresh start. Did you come to Forks with someone?”

“No.” I shook my head slightly with a small smile, “It’s just me. I live a few blocks away, decided to take a walk around; get the lay of the land.”

“It’s getting fairly late though, will you be okay heading back? It’s fairly quiet around here, but you should still be careful.” He said, this time with an assuredly concerned look.

I did a mental check; normally I keep my protective gear in my bag, but because it was a short walk, I didn’t even think to bring it.

“I swear, I’m such an airhead at times.” I chuckled to myself, “But I think I can brave the walk home. I should be fine.”

“Famous last words.” He said light-heartedly, “Jokes aside, what kind of gentleman would I be if I didn’t offer the fair lady an escort home?”

“Oh, I couldn’t ask that of you! You have a shop to run, plus it’s really not that far.” I hastily said. It’s not that I didn’t want him to. In fact, I very much did want him to. But I didn’t want to inconvenience him.

“Nonsense. If it’s as close as you say, I can be back here in no time. I’d only be closed for a few minutes, and besides, it’s not exactly busy.” He said, gesturing to the empty shop chairs. “That is, unless you’re opposed? Far be it from me to coerce anyone into something they don’t want.”

“No, not opposed!” I said, my voice an octave higher than usual. I cleared my throat, “I’d be fine with an escort home from you. But I hope you don’t mind the walk.”

Sebastian smiled again, “Actually, I was going to ask if you wanted to ride in my car? We can walk if you’d like, though. Your choice.”

“Car?” I said with a confused look. I hadn’t seen one walking in, though I guess I didn’t account for behind the store parking. “Oh, well of course you have a car.”

“Ah, yes, it’s parked out back. Perks of owning the shop.” He laughed.

“Own? You own this shop?” I said, astonished.

He answered as he walked across the shop to the front doors to turn the sign to “closed” and locked up. “Yes, my… family has some wealth. I don’t like to flaunt it too much, but I adore coffee and refuse to buy anything but the best, so it comes in handy for inventory.”

“Emphasis on ‘too much’.” I grinned, “Do you always talk about your family’s wealth to the newcomers.” I teased as I hopped out of the seat and followed him through the back to his car. It was Mustang, that much I could tell, a Shelby at that.

“Ha! No, you appear to be a special case. Believe it or not, this is the most interesting conversation I’ve had with anyone in a while.” He said, unlocking the car’s doors.

“Well that’s not saying much.” I responded.

“Nonsense! I find you to be very interesting.” He stopped and looked almost like he was going to reprimand me.

“Or just new.” I said anyway, “That interest will more likely fade. I’m really not that interesting.”

He scowled slightly; I could tell that he really didn’t like me talking down on myself. We got into the car and I buckled up and gave him the address. He plugged it into his GPS and drove off. Music was softly playing from his radio speakers, I could make out the song that was playing, “Scrape” by Witchz.

I gazed out the window, almost straining to hear the music until he reached out to the radio and turned the volume up a little.

“Scrape me til I scream. Thoughts in silence. Paint me in your dreams. Use the light strokes, face me on your knees In the name of love.”

“TikTok got the better of me.” He chuckled softly.

“I can’t say I blame you; it’s a good song.” I replied, smiling. “You know, I can’t say what I was really expecting moving across the country, but I can say that I didn’t expect to meet someone so charming at my local coffee shop.”

“Well, I’m certainly glad to have made a good impression. Again, what sort of gentleman would I be?”

He smiled warmly at me quickly before looking back at the road. We were almost back to my new home and I had a longing feeling to stay in his company for just a little longer. He felt… safe.

The mustang slowed to a stop outside of my quaint house. My fingers brushed the door handle to open the door, but then I looked back at him. His eyes were intensely locked on mine and it felt as though we had shared a lifetime in that moment. Even now, I struggle to find the correct words to describe it. What felt like forever was really only a minute or two, but once I had collected my thoughts, I brought myself to ask the question I’d been dying to ask since I had met him.

“D-do you think I could have your number? Just because… well, I don’t exactly know anyone around here except you now and I figure… well… you seem like the good type you’d want to keep around.”

There a slight twinge of pain in his eyes. I had wondered from what, but it was gone as quickly had it had came.

He laughed softly, “Of course you can. It would do you good to have connection to someone in the know.” He extended his hand as a gesture for me to hand him my phone and I followed suit.

He swiftly enter his number into my contacts, complete with his full name. When he was done, I placed my hand out for my phone back. Instead of doing that though, he gently grasped my hand and pulled it toward him a little and then leaned in the rest of the distance to place a surprisingly cool kiss on the skin just above my knuckles.

A silent oh formed on my lips as I felt a fire creep across my cheeks. He locked his emerald hues onto mine again with the most enrapturing look on his face as he spoke,

“It was truly a pleasure to have had the opportunity to meet you this evening, Nell. I do hope that we have another chance to get to know each other more soon.”

He carefully handed my phone back to me and then exited the car. I was still flustered at the quick series of events that just happened that I jolted in my seat when he tapped on my window and then opened my door, his hand extended to help me out.

I laughed to myself a little as I accepted his help, “You certainly know how to make a woman feel like a lady, don’t you?”

To this, he gave me a devilish smirk and answered, “A lady should always be treated as such.”

I was at a loss for words now. He laid the flattery on thick, and I kind of really liked it. I gave him a grateful smile as my face was, I’m sure, beet red.

“Thank you for the ride home.” I said, almost in a whisper.

“Should you ever need another, or anything else for that matter, I’m just a call or text away.” he said, as he reclaimed his hand as his own started back towards his door.

I followed his lead and headed back to my house, but I didn’t notice his car leave until I had closed the door behind me.

So let me get this straight, he’s handsome, charming, and a gentleman to boot. He’s also well versed in flattery. He’s totally my type, Webut he’s almost… too perfect.

I pulled my phone back out of my pocket where I’d slipped it after he handed it back. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t immediately searching for his contact he’d input. My phone listed contacts alphabetically by first name, so straight down to the “s” section I scrolled.

Sebastian Silverchase

An attractive name for an attractive guy; it’s fitting, I suppose. Now the question of messaging him nagged in my brain. If I texted him right away, I’d come off as desperate. That is to say, not that I wasn’t desperate to get to know him more, but I didn’t want to come off as crazy or anything. Besides, he did say he would be heading back to the coffee shop I was sure. Maybe just a quick “hello” so that he could save my number and let it go from there.

I began to type but I had a nagging feeling; he was a complete stranger. I just willing accepted a ride to my house from a complete stranger. Sure, we exchanged pleasantries, and he seemed a decent enough guy, but I didn’t know this man from Adam and I straight got in his car and gave him a guide to my house from where he works. Crush or not, I’m not normally that brazen to just throw caution to the wind.

I deleted the few letters I’d typed and set my phone down on the kitchen counter, looking at my fridge. My stomach growled and I put my hand over it. “Brilliant, Nell. Get coffee, but no food.” I opened the fridge door and glanced over the barely stocked shelves. I had the basics, deli turkey from H-E-B (how I’d miss it so) and some Kraft American singles plus a loaf of bread, but I wasn’t really in the mood for a sandwich.

I closed the door and walked over to my recliner (technically, my dad’s, but he gave it to me); thankfully, the delivery guys got it here shortly after I got here. I let out a long sigh thinking of what to eat. There had to be a pizza place nearby, right? I groaned and got back up, the only way I’d find out is by checking my phone.

When I unlocked it, it was still on Sebastian’s contact. I thought about it for a second and figured if he’d really meant to do anything, he most likely would have. I tapped the text icon and typed out a message.

“Hey, it’s Nell :) random question, but could you suggest a good pizza place around here?”

I hit send and collapsed back into my chair, phone in hand searching Google while waiting for a response. There was a place called Pacific Pizza, but Google said they closed at 9, and was already 8:45. I didn’t want to be that person. I scrolled but was only met with one other option being Home Slice Take and Bake that closed at 8pm. I set my phone on my stomach and let out an exasperated sigh. Just then, my phone buzzed. It was Sebastian.

“Hello, Nell :) I’m not usually one for pizza, myself, but I’ve heard mention of Pacific Pizza being good. They’ll be closing soon though. You could always venture the hour to Port Angeles, I believe there’s a Pizza Hut, but it’s fairly late.”

Port Angeles? In all honesty, I probably could, but why waste an hour’s worth of gas just for pizza. Plus, he had a point, it was pretty late. I replied back to him.

“Ah, maybe another time then. I hope the Pizza Gods don’t smite me for this, but I don’t think risking my life for pizza is worth it, haha. Thanks though!”

I supposed sandwiches for the night would do. I pushed myself up and walked back over to the fridge when my phone buzzed again.

“Anytime. Can I ask, what’s your favorite pizza?”

I smiled and typed a quick response.

“I’m a classic kind of gal. Pepperoni with extra cheese.”

I sent the text and set my phone back down on the counter, opening the fridge door to gather the sandwich makings. I grabbed the package of turkey and a slice of cheese, also setting them on the counter to wait while I went to the pantry to grab the bread.

I came back to the ingredients and began putting it together, grabbing a couple of slices of bread from the bag and placing them on a paper towel. I would need to go to the store the next day, buy some basics, like paper plates and such.

I finished making the sandwich (and I use that term loosely, as it was just bread, cheese, and meat) and was about to take a bite as my phone buzzed again, Sebastian’s name popping up.

“Delivery :)”

I stared at my phone quizzically for a second until I heard I knock at the front door. I was admittedly startled, but I went to check the peephole. I had to stand on tiptoes to reach it, but when I looked, no one was there.

I opened the door and found a Pacific Pizza box. I brought it in, albeit cautiously, and set it down in the kitchen. I opened it up and saw a pepperoni pizza with extra cheese. I grabbed my phone and immediately started typing.

“Was this you?? How did you get it here so fast??”

There was no way it couldn’t have been him. It was way too coincidental if not. I decided to grab a slice and take a bite, and it was delicious! My phone buzzed once again.

“I hope you don’t mind. It seemed like you really wanted one. My expedited delivery times are my secrets, that may, or may not, be divulged in time.”

I narrowed my eyes reading his second sentence, but honestly, the pizza was so good that I’d completely let it go.

“Thank you! That was very kind to do, though I hope they weren’t too annoyed with you with it being so late.”

I tried to not think too much about it, but who just goes and gets food for someone they just met? This felt like a best friend conversation to me; Rayne could definitely talk some sense into this situation.

I ate another slice of pizza and my phone buzzed once again.

“Nonsense, I know them. They didn’t mind. I hope you enjoy.”

I smiled softly at the text, but then backed out of his thread and found Rayne’s, whose wasn’t much further down and sent her a message.

“Hey Rayne, I’m settled in a bit here, but when are you good for a call? I… met a guy here but I’m needing some advice.”

I went off to my room to change into some more comfortable clothes while I waited for her response, which didn’t take too long. As I pulled my sleep shirt on, I picked my phone back up and I saw her message.

“GIRL!!! NOT EVEN 24 HOURS AND YOU’RE MESSAGING ME ABOUT A GUY?! GIVE ME, LIKE, 10 MINUTES AND THEN YOU ARE SPILLING THIS TEA!!”

I chuckled at her text, I was definitely getting an earful when we talked. She’s always getting onto me about crushing too hard too soon, but I couldn’t help it. I’ve been told since I was young that I care and love too deeply for my own good. That’s why it was great when Rayne came into my life, she balanced me out and helped me somewhat find my worth.

I settled into my bed and scrolled through TikTok while I waited for her call. I mindlessly watched videos until the audio for one cut out and my phone started buzzing, then Rayne’s name popped up on the top of my screen waiting for me to answer.

“Hello?” I said, bracing for her intensity.

“ELEANOR LYNN MONROE!” she practically shouted, “Why is it that I can’t leave you alone for a second without you talking to me about a guy?? Didn’t you just leave Mi-“

I cut her off before she could even finish the name, “Hey! I don’t bring up she-who-must-not-be-named, you don’t talk about him. As far as we’re concerned, he didn’t even exist.” I wasn’t ready to discuss him, even with her. She knew I left, both him and Texas, but I hadn’t divulged all the details yet.

“Alright, alright, Ms. Bossy. Well then, tell me, what’s this new fascination’s name?” she asked, switching quickly back to the topic at hand, she knew I wouldn’t talk until I was ready.

“Sebastian.” I said, a smile uncontrollably forming on my lips as I did, “His name is Sebastian Silverchase.”

#current wip #story #writing #sebastian #silverchase #i dont have a name for this #reading #advice #help

[superblycaffeinated]

Find the list of March Prompts I’m participating in here - I hope you join in! I love seeing all the different stories people come up with from the same words  This is a very loose depiction of righteousness - I went with the definition: "Righteousness is a feeling or way of life that is all about doing the right thing." This contains spoilers for the fanfiction series The Listen Series by @averagejoesolomon

Morgan Goode / Luke Collins

Luke Collins is infuriating was not a new thought for my brain to stumble over, but a rare occurrence these days. 

Kind? Yes. Attentive? You bet. Patient? Undeniably. Slight tendency to hover and helicopter on occasion? Annoyingly so lately. 

But infuriating? I hadn’t needed to use that word until right now. 

“Morgan, no.”

No. 

No is not really a term in my vocabulary, it never has been, and if it’s told to me, it’s not something I listen to often. Especially when accompanied with my name like that, like he’s scolding, like he can’t believe I’d be so stupid like-

“Are you even listening to me?”

“Nope,” I popped the ‘p’ as I continued to tape my hands. 

Sometimes, I was still a little shocked to look down and see the scars, flexing a stiff hand and watching how they caught the light on more than a few occasions. To suddenly tune in to how different my two legs felt from one another. 

I wouldn’t say I admired my scars, or found beauty in them usually (unless Luke was kissing them and whispering things he loved about me against my skin, but that’s a different story). But when I stretched out my arms and saw the swirling pattern extend up both forearms, I did draw some sort of courage from them, I think.

Not fueled by spite, or anger, or hate, though those were easy to fall into from time to time - easier not to with each passing day - but from peace, from clarity, from trusting my gut that I had done the right thing two years ago. 

“I’m not doing this,” Luke exhaled in a tone riddled with finality, one with zero room for argument. 

It was a nicely delivered command, strong, confident, and anybody in their right mind would have heard it, looked at the strong set of his jaw, his squared off shoulders, his arms crossed over his chest, and accepted defeat and walked away. 

But see, I’m not normally in my “right” mind, and I knew what others didn’t - that when it comes to me and Luke Collins, there was always room for an argument. 

“Oh,” I laughed, squinting up at him in the harsh noon light, “I get it. You’re afraid to lose to a girl.”

Luke’s temple pulsed, that familiar crease furrowing his forehead as he tried to continue to be three steps ahead, to figure out where I was planning to take this. 

A horse snorted in the pasture to our left, a chip crunched between teeth up on the porch to our right, a breeze carried a faint melody in the air, and Luke’s heartbeat thudded calmly despite the tension he carried in his body. 

“When have I ever been afraid to lose to a girl, Morgan?” Luke gritted out, taking the bait easily, taking a step closer. 

“Can think of at least one time you were worried about losing to a whole team of them,” I cracked my neck as I cocked an eyebrow at him, “Broke your nose about it.”

He huffed a breath out of that crooked nose as he narrowed his eyes at me in an old, familiar, challenging way. 

We weren’t the same kids who fought because we had to. 

I had new pain and trauma, new experience, new weaknesses and strengths. I had new patience and drive and passion for the work I was born to do. He had scruff on his jaw, and new muscles in his arms, new scars, new stories, a new (and entirely too attractive) confidence and determination at work, new, bold and unapologetic public displays of affection towards me.  

But apparently also a newfound moral dilemma about fighting me. 

In the two years since I’d woken up in that overnight room in the hospital wing at Gallagher, Luke Collins had refused to throw a punch my way. 

I hadn’t noticed at first, because I was so focused on learning how my new body would and could work. I was determined and hellbent on getting better, one step at a time. So caught up in the feeling of finally being able to hit and kick and fight, that I hadn’t noticed that every time we sparred, Luke was back to his tried and true defensive approach when it came to me. 

“It’s okay, Collins,” I let his last name hang in the space between us, poking, prodding, baiting, “Should have just realized you were a chicken.”

He rolled his eyes, and scoffed out a cold laugh, “I’m not a chicken.”

Too easy. 

“Asking for a fight,” I pointed to myself, then him as I called out louder, “Doesn’t want to fight me. If it acts like a chicken, and sounds like a chicken…” I clucked my tongue against the roof of my mouth. Twitters from our audience had a smirk pulling at my lips. 

Luke took another step towards me, shaking his head once, then twice. Slow and determined, just like his breath. 

“Nice try, I’m not five years old Goode.”

I threw my arm out towards the porch, my voice growing louder, “Charlotte has hit me. Several times.”

“Morgan, I’m not-”

“Jasons, has hit me, Jasons!” I exclaimed, excitement pulsed through me as his foot shifted, as his arm twitched. 

“Stop-”

“My dad has hit me!”

Our chests heaved in sync, in anticipation as his gaze dotted over my face. I heard his swallow, I heard his inhale, I heard the gravel beneath his toe, and I heard the lack of breath from everyone watching. 

“I know you have this moral code, some righteous compass you have to follow, but I need you to punch me. And I need you to fucking mean it.”

“Morgan,” his voice came out strained, like he was fighting every instinct in his body, “Stop. Talking.”

A familiar heat licked up my spine, it pricked at something on the back of my neck, it sent electric charges down my arms and into my fingertips. 

For the first time in a long time, I felt excited about punching something. Someone. 

I exhaled, I lifted my jaw in defiance, and I let a breath carry the dare past my lips. 

“Make me.”

The sound of my hand catching his fist before it hit my jaw was only slightly muffled by the cheering and whistling from our right. 

And if I ended up with a punch to the gut because I was too distracted by Luke’s smile at the sound of Scout Jasons yelling at my brother that he owed him twenty bucks, then so be it. 

#I love it when these two fight #gallagher girls #gallagher girls series #gallagher girls fanfiction #the listen series #morgan goode #luke collins

[ask-new-new-lmanburg]

[Wilbur walks up to the site where Quackity is building his new house, hands stuffed in his pockets.]

W: Hey big q!

[Q puts his axe away in a slot before turning to look over.]

Q: Hey, Wilbur. What’s up?

W: Just checking in on how the building's going.

Q: It’s alright. I’m not exactly a builder but I’ve got a frame down. It’s better than your shitty van by a mile, though.

W: I didn't build the van, I took it from my homeworld.

Q: What, like a different server? They’re shitty builders there too then.

[Wilbur laughs, brushing hair out of his face.]

W: Something like that.

Q: …How are you doing, Wilbur? After- well. I just haven’t seen you in a bit.

W: I've been alright, tired, but alright. You? How are you liking it here, see Tommy yet?

Q: I’ve just been busy with the house. I haven’t seen Tommy at all, if he supposed to be around?

W: Yeah he lives over thereish, I actually wanted to be closer to someone I know, and I hate the cold weather so… Tommy it was.

Q: I’d be more surprised if Tommy wasn’t near you. The kid could barely leave your side back in L’Manberg

W: Clingy shit.

Q: How is he doing by the way? I would ask him but he’d just yell at me about being a big man or some shit

W: Hell if I know, I think he’s okay, but I’m not really a good judge of that.

Q: Yeah, that’s fair. We’re not exactly the standard for doing alright, are we.

W: Fuck no. But I like to think I’m doing better, I know I’ve said that a dozen times but I really feel it this time.

Q: You seem better. I mean, you’re still annoying as shit and you like to poke your nose in places you don’t belong but…I don’t know. I haven’t seen you smiling like this since back in L’Manberg

W: You seem better too, than the other day. I was worried, especially with you being all alone out there.

Q: I wasn’t supposed to be alone. I had people, for a little while. A person. I lost that, and I really wasn’t doing well for a while. As much as it pains me to admit it, I am…glad that you came by.

W: I’ll always be by to bother you, you’ll never have to worry about that. It was hard for a while after uh… the van, but I can’t shut everyone out again.

Q: Yeah, I’ve got to work on that as well. We can hold each other accountable.

W: Oh? How so?

Q: You can stop by and check on me and I’ll stop by and check on you. If either of us starts falling back on our destructive habits, maybe we can help each other out of it.

W: Or we'll destroy each other worse. Either way, if I was going down I'd be honoured to take you with me.

Q: Hopefully it won’t come to that, but I can’t think of anyone else I’d rather go down with.

W: Say, are you up for a drink, because taking my arch nemesis down with me seems like an amazing thing to drink to.

Q: Yeah, what the hell. But if you get too drunk I will be pouring water over your head.

W: That was one time!

Q: It was more than one time, you just don’t remember the other times because you drank too much!

W: I do not have any issues with alcohol! …Anymore.

Q: I’ll believe that when I see it. C’mon let’s go to your shitty van. At least it has walls.

W: I have a house, dumbass.

Q: You could have fooled me with how many times you tried to break into my country. My…former country.

W: The house is a new development.

Q: Well lead the way then, dumbass. I didn’t even know it existed, so I don’t know where it is

W: Where did you think I was sleeping when I wasn't in the van with you?

Q: I don’t know, with Tommy or Phil? Maybe Niki? I didn’t really think about it.

W: * scoffs * you think so lowly of me.

Q: I told you before, Wilbur, I don’t think about you at all.

[Wilbur turns away from Quackity so he can't see his disappointment, and changes the subject.]

W: I uh- I live that way.

[Quackity sees the disappointment, and for a moment thinks of saying something. But the moment passes and he doesn’t work up the courage.]

Q: Age before beauty.

W: What?

Q: Age before beauty. You’re older than me and I’m prettier than you. So you go first.

W: What the fuck.

Q: Are you going to deny it?

W: I can’t change when I was born Big Q.

Q: Try harder.

W: Whatever let’s go drink.

Q: I’m right behind you, Wil.

W: Like what you see?

Q: You don’t have much to admire.

W: Anyways, wine or vodka.

Q: I’ve never been partial to wine. Do you have any tequila?

W: Nope, I’m not good with tequila.

Q: Alright, pass the vodka then.

W: To destroying each other, and a life without love!

Q: Cheers to that.

[Their glasses are plastic, but they clink them together as if they’re real glass.]

#qky asknnlm #wl asknnlmb