#riley however believes she's doing this for the good of the team and thinks it's the way to get cairo to love her (spoiler: no)

[deakyjoe]

Somebody’s Watching Me Part 7

Paring: Simon “Ghost” Riley x Reader (“Sarge”, she/her pronouns, British, backstory)

Category: slowburn coworkers to friends to lovers with grumpy x sunshine dynamic/idiots in love

Summary: You and Simon take the next step towards happiness.

Warnings: smut (18+), f receiving oral, handjobs, vaginal fingering, unprotected PinV (wrap it before you tap it), creampie, praise kink, slightly sub!ghost, slightly dom!reader, multiple orgasms, overstimulation, swearing/cursing, British terminology/slang, the mask is off, domestic Ghost, brief mention of scars and stretch marks, this is just smut and fluff, *** to indicate where smut starts and ends

Word count: 5.7k

A/N: EJ doesn’t write and publish smut. EJ is a virgin who doesn’t know what sex is like in real life. EJ is nervous about posting this. Please be nice to EJ.

Part 8 here!

Consider buying me a coffee :)

The first time you met Lieutenant Simon "Ghost" Riley you were rather disappointed. You'd heard tales of the mysterious killing machine who showed no mercy. But then, when you finally did come face to face with him, you discovered he was just a regular guy in a mask who complained when his tea was too hot to drink and when the chocolate digestive biscuits had run out. Hardly the legend everyone cracked him up to be.

And then you saw him in the field and your perception changed slightly. He was damn good at what he did. You'd be mildly impressed if you weren't already surrounded by the best of the best, yourself included. You weren't entirely convinced he was the scariest man ever to have lived, as everybody told you, but you could appreciate his skills. Sure, you were fearful of him in the way that he was your superior and you didn't want to make a bad first impression or have him kick you off the team. But you didn't think he was going to kill you in your sleep or anything as your new friend Sergeant MacTavish, better known as Soap, liked to joke.

However, your view of him changed again when he caught you and Soap in the rec room one evening. It was totally innocent. The two of you were unwinding from a long day by eating snacks, listening to music and sharing stories. You were in the middle of listening to a particularly good one from your fellow sergeant when your lieutenant walked in and his mouth snapped shut.

Ghost barely glanced at the two of you, face hidden by his infamous mask. It looked rather silly when he didn't have the rest of his tactical gear on.

"Carry on, Soap." You encouraged him, not put off by the presence of another person in the room. "What happened next?"

The Scot's eyes snapped back to yours and he cleared his throat. "Right, right uuhhh..."

He was cut off by Lieutenant Riley suddenly standing over the two of you behind the sofa, cup of tea clutched in his gloved hand. He was very sneaky. "No drinking on base."

You looked up to him, confused by what he was talking about before realising he was looking at the drink clasped in your hand. "It's apple juice, sir."

He said nothing, eyes burning through his mask into yours. You wouldn't back down from a stare off if that's what he wanted. If his game was intimidation then you wouldn't let him win. You'd grown used to men trying to put you down and you weren't going to let a man who hid his face behind a mask try to do the same.

"This music is inappropriate. Flirting between members of the team is forbidden." He really was trying to get you in trouble. But why? Did he already not like you?

You snorted at him. "I hardly think Sir Mix-a-Lot is the pinnacle of romance, lieutenant."

Soap's jaw hung open opposite you. He couldn't believe you were arguing with Ghost Riley. Especially as a new member of the team. It was risky. He respected it.

"Don't answer back, sergeant." He snapped, fist clenching at his side.

You just held your chin higher despite him towering over you. "I'm not, sir. I'm sure Sergeant MacTavish is a lovely man but, believe me, I have no interest in pursuing anyone on the team. And Sir Mix-a-Lot is certainly not my main means of seduction. I'm here to work. Nothing else."

If only you knew.

***

The kiss was feverish as Simon stumbled into your flat, not letting you go for a single second as he kicked the door shut harshly behind him and pushed his jacket off his shoulders and onto the floor. There was a passionate clash of teeth and tongues as you slammed him back against the wood, needing to be as close to him as possible. You were not going to let him go full Ghost on you in this situation and take complete control of it. You wanted Simon. And you wanted some power.

But Simon was kissing you.

Simon was kissing you.

It finally dawned what was happening.

He tasted like the bourbon he'd been drinking earlier, not that you were complaining, and you wondered if you tasted of the apple martini he'd made for you. The apple martini he hated.

You pulled back suddenly. "Oh, god. Do I taste like the apple martini? I'm sor-"

He chuckled lowly, leaning back into you. "Stop talking for once, Sarge."

The kiss resumed and his hands roamed every inch of you that he could reach, not neglecting any point of your body. You clung to him desperately, never wanting to let go. You wanted to consume him. And let him consume you.

He was too tall, always too fucking tall. So you grabbed at his shirt and dragged him down to meet you halfway, legs sliding up the outside of his almost as if you were trying to climb him. And maybe you were.

Simon groaned lowly into your mouth, breaking away for a mere second to catch his breath and stare longingly down at you before diving straight back in. As your arms snaked around the back of his neck, he turned the two of you around so you were up against the door. And you needed the support as he started to pepper kisses along your jawline and down your neck. He found your weak spot as you whined and began to lick and suckle there repeatedly for good measure.

As much as it felt good, you needed more of him so you threaded your fingers through the back of his hair and guided his lips back to yours. "More kissing, Simon."

He obliged happily.

You'd never get enough. There would never be enough Simon Riley in this world to satisfy you. And he had a sneaking suspicion of that so he was going to do his damn best to give you as much as he could.

When he broke away again, you huffed in protest but quickly stopped when he sank down to the floor.

Having Lieutenant Simon Riley on his knees in front of you was the most exciting, and unexpected, moment of your life.

You'd store away the image in your memory forever.

He looked up at you with his wide, dark eyes and started unbuttoning your jeans. When he glanced back up at you again for permission to take them off you just nodded. They were pulled off and discarded, his stare fixing on the underwear you were wearing. It wasn't your nicest pair but Simon didn't seem to care much as he parted your thighs with his hands and stuck his head between them, inhaling deeply.

Before you knew it, they were torn off and Simon's mouth was latched onto your clit. The man did know his targets well.

"Oh, my- fuck!" You slapped your hand across your mouth, head thrown back and slamming against the door, as he sucked and flicked at it in utter desperation.

When you dared to look down at him, even more arousal stirred in you to see his eyes - his pretty, pretty eyes - were fixed on you and your reactions. He seemed to be concentrating on what felt good for you. People pleaser.

Moans and other pleasured sounds tumbled from your lips as he lifted one of your legs and manoeuvred it over his shoulder so you were spread wide for him, hand planted on your thigh to knead the flesh there. He changed positions after that, moving so his mouth was closer to your opening and his nose bumped against your clit for stimulation instead.

And you couldn't help yourself when your hips started grinding against his face of their own accord, pure lust powering you forward.

"Simon." A gasp of his name left your mouth as he lapped up everything you were giving him, hands laced in his hair to pull him impossibly closer to you.

The thought that you were doing this against your front door and that any of your neighbours could hear you if they simply walked past was long gone as the burning feeling of your impending orgasm built up within you. But, then again, it was past midnight on New Years. Any of your neighbours still awake would probably be partying and having too much of their own fun to take any notice of loud noises coming from your flat.

"So good." You said, chest heaving and face glistening with sweat. "So, so good, Simon."

He groaned into you, eyes closing for just a second making his fair eyelashes flutter, and went harder. He devoured you like a man starved.

And with a final buck of your hips that had the tip of his nose hitting your clit just right, you were speeding over the edge into blissful oblivion. It took every ounce of willpower for you not to scream as your legs turned to jelly. He kept you upright with his hands on your hips as he slid back up to his full height.

"You. Taste. Heavenly." Every word was punctuated by a kiss to your lips, each one tasting distinctly of you.

Your voice was ragged as your eyelids became hooded and you grabbed his hand. "Bedroom."

"Yes, ma'am." He had no ounce of protest in him as he allowed you to drag him through your flat and to your room. Now things were started he wasn't going to hold back at all. He'd been denying himself of this for too long. He felt like it was deserved. Both for him and for you.

What he didn't expect was for you to take complete control as soon as you got there, pushing him onto the bed and demanding him to sit up against the headboard as he kicked his shoes off.

And when you crawled over to him and straddled his lap, lips immediately landing on his to kiss him even more, he felt a tingling inside of himself. It was a kind of buzz, almost like he was drunk but not quite. Maybe drunk on you. And the feeling of you against him.

You were underwear-less now, only a bra and shirt covering you, so when you started to softly grind against him Simon thought his brain might explode. Or other parts of him.

But you didn't give up, even as he grew painfully hard underneath you, you just kept going. You just kissed and kissed and kissed at his swollen lips, not being able to stop yourself.

But then you suddenly pulled back and looked down at him, head tilting to the side slightly. Your hands tapped along the hem of his shirt, barely grazing the skin of his stomach. "You're wearing too many clothes. May I?" You asked and he nodded, breathless. "Out loud."

"Yes." He was never going to say no to you. Especially not now. He'd lost the ability to deny you of anything a long time ago.

You tugged the shirt off of him and over his head, eyes immediately landing on his bare torso that was only very partially obscured by his dog tags. He was toned, that was for sure, but you knew that already and you admired the tattoos dispersed up and down his arms, encroaching onto his chest. However, you were more focused on the subtle things. The small freckles scattered in various places, scars marking the pale tone of his skin, a patch of hair on his lower abdomen that trailed off in a little path underneath his belt. Even the faded stretch marks dotted across the plains of his body.

You sighed happily. "You're so gorgeous it's unfair, Simon. Blond and pretty."

He flushed at that, blaming the heat in his cheeks on being turned on, and pulled you back in to kiss him to distract himself from it.

Your nails raked down his chest, arms lifting up when he pulled your own shirt off of you. His large hands explored the expanse of your skin, trailing up and down your sides before going to your back, undoing your bra and tossing it to the side. Like him, only your dog tags were left to cover the bare skin of your chest.

His eyes were drawn to the dog tags hanging around your neck, the chain settled in the valley of your breasts, and you both knew what you were thinking. The fantasy Simon had confided in you. But, silently, you agreed it was for another time.

His hands were warm when they landed on your chest, which you were thankful for, as they kneaded, pulled, tugged and tweaked. It felt good but you wanted to give him more.

"Can I touch you, Simon?" You asked, smiling when he nodded eagerly.

Your hands fumbled with his belt buckle, no patience left within you, and you pulled his trousers and underwear down just enough to release him once the belt was undone.

You stared at him.

Simon felt self-conscious.

He had no reason to.

He was long and thick, your mouth watering at the sight. Oh, how you longed for him. To have him in your mouth. To taste him. To feel him inside you. But that was for another time.

As soon as your hand wrapped around him his eyes screwed shut and his head was thrown back against the wall, soft sounds leaving his mouth.

"Mm-mm. Eyes open and on me, Simon." You said quietly, watching his chest heave and his breaths come out raggedly.

His eyes shot open at the mention of his name, cheeks pink and rosy as he made eye contact with you.

"So pretty..." You trailed off, smiling at him. He really was beautiful. Especially like this. "Come on, pretty boy. Keep making those pretty, little noises for me."

He whimpered, actually whimpered.

"Oh-ho-ho! Do you like praise, Simon?"

He nodded frantically, teeth sinking into his bottom lip. "Please."

"You like to hear how well you're doing for me? How beautiful you look? Hm?"

Your hand tightened around his tip before you sunk it back down again to the base, twisting your wrist to give him more friction.

A garbled sentence left his mouth, something incoherent he was saying to himself.

"Speak up, Riley. I need to hear you." You looked away from his face for a moment to where your hand was pumping him, speeding up the action slightly.

"Fuck, so close. I'm gonna- gonna-"

"Already?" You raised your brows at him. You weren’t disappointed, just surprised and rather flattered.

"I'm sorry. Fuck, I'm sorry." He apologised profusely, face scrunched and hands clawing at the bedsheets on either side of him. "So, so sorry. Fuck-"

"It's okay. Come for me." And all it took was a swipe of your thumb over his tip.

He groaned lowly as hot ropes of cum spurted from him, coating your hand and his stomach. More laboured breathing from him had you placing your clean hand on his chest to calm him down.

***

"Breathe, Simon. Inhale... Exhale... Good." You leant forward and kissed his cheek before looking down at the mess beneath you. "Umm..."

"Shit, uh..." He reached for the tissues next to your bed and frantically wiped away what he could. "You might need to wash your hands."

"Probably." You smiled at him.

"I'm sorry that I... so fast." He panted, face scrunched in... embarrassment?

"Don't apologise. If I'm sitting here calling you pretty and encouraging it, then I want you to come." You revelled in the way his cheeks flushed and his eyes widened a fraction.

"But we didn't- you didn't-"

You shook your head, crawling off of him to go to the bathroom. "You already made me come."

"Yeah, but-"

"No buts." You tutted and called over your shoulder one last time before disappearing out of the room. "I'll be back in a minute."

You could feel his stare on the back of you as you left, smiling at the idea of him watching you. When you returned a couple of minutes later with a damp cloth in your hand to clean him up, you found him staring at the wall opposite and twiddling his thumbs together. He looked anxious.

"What's wrong?" You asked softly as you sat down next to him and wiped his stomach.

"Nothing." He answered too quickly for your liking.

"C'mon, Simon. I know you now. Don't lie to me. Please. You can tell me." You glanced back up at him as you finished, turning slightly to throw the cloth into your laundry hamper in the corner of your room. You managed to get it in, you did have impeccable aim.

He didn't answer as he watched you crawl over him to the unoccupied side of the bed and get under the duvet.

"At least take off your jeans and get in here with me." You sighed, propping yourself up on your elbow. And when he still did nothing, you had a sudden realisation. "Unless you want to leave. Because you were leaving before you came back..."

The idea broke your heart. Maybe he wanted this to be a one time thing to let off some steam, to alleviate the tension that had been growing between you. What if this wasn't what you hoped it would be?

He snapped out of his daze at that, standing and pushing off the rest of his clothes before diving in next to you and sidling up close. "No, no. Don't say that. I don't want to leave."

"Okay, good." You smiled at him, getting slightly closer. "Tell me what's wrong."

He chewed absentmindedly on his inner cheek. "Overthinking."

It was a simple answer that didn't explain much. But you understood him.

"Okay." Your hand lifted to his face, thumb swiping over cheek softly as you kissed him gently. "You can tell me whatever you need to whenever you need to."

He nodded, kissing you again.

Your fingers moved to the back of his head, carding through the blond strands. His eyes fluttered shut, a relieved breath leaving his mouth.

"I'm sorry." He whispered. "I overthink. Especially with this."

"Don't apologise, Simon." You chuckled, wanting to lighten the mood. "Thought you told me you were more dominant in bed."

"Nuh-uh. I told you it depends." He smiled back, one of his proper smiles that was reserved only for you to see as his eyes snapped back open.

"Lucky me then."

There was a short moment of silence before you approached the topic that was eating away at you.

"Why now?" You asked, shifting so your noses grazed against one another.

"Because I've wanted to for a while." He kissed you quickly, hand tracing over your hip. "And because I'm selfish."

Curious. "Selfish?"

"Too selfish to think about the consequences because I want you too much."

Huh. "Meaning?"

He paused, thinking about his words carefully. "I'm prioritising my wants, pleasures, needs over logical arguments."

"You make no sense, Riley. But I'll take it if it means this." You sighed into his mouth as you kissed him again. "I wish you'd done it sooner. We've been spending time together for months."

"I wouldn't let myself. It's not allowed. Technically." He added the last bit on hastily. "And I wasn't going to allow it to happen."

"You were going to ignore your feelings?" You couldn't judge him exactly. You'd been doing the same.

"Have been for months. Unsuccessfully." He grunted, winding his hand around your waist and tugging you closer so you were chest to chest. "But you wouldn't leave me alone."

"Hey! I offered you an out." You protested weakly, smiling widely at him still.

"Didn't mean literally." He huffed. "Just constantly on my fucking mind."

Your eyes brightened at that and Simon felt himself fall just that little bit farther. You, on the other hand, were trying to control yourself. There were three options: jump him again, confess your undying love or just stay quiet in the hopes he'd say a little more.

Option three was the safest.

He kissed you again, lingering for a moment this time. "Couldn't get you off my bloody mind. Always ticking around in there."

"I'm flattered, Riley." You whispered. "Does that mean I'm the last thing you masturbated to which is why you refused to answer during Truth or Drink?"

"Classified." He paused. "But yes."

You giggled and pressed your lips against his, moaning quietly when he rolled the two of you over so you were underneath him.

He pulled away for a moment, mumbling into your mouth. "Definitely worth any consequences."

You were wildly inquisitive about the whole thing, unable to stop yourself from inquiring. "What are the potential consequences?"

"Dishonourably discharged."

"Wait, really?" You pushed slightly on his chest, suddenly panicked at the idea.

"Nah." Dickhead. "Could be reassigned."

You whined quietly. "That's shit."

"Mhm, don't think Price would let it happen though." He lowered himself down again and planted an open mouthed kiss on your jaw, grazing his teeth against your skin. "I wouldn't let him let it happen."

You sighed contently, arms snaking around his back. "Hmm, and why's that?"

"I'm rather fond of you."

"Rather fond of me... what are you? Eighty?" You cackled, chest rumbling against his.

He rolled his eyes at you. "Ever the charmer, Sarge."

"I'm sorry." You mock pouted. "Did I hurt your feelings?"

"Shut up." He silenced you with his own mouth, tongue curling against yours, and revelled in the sigh you let out against him.

But you weren't done with your interrogation, forever wanting to know more. "Why did you tell me happy new year before you kissed me?"

"Because I wanted to kiss you at midnight." He said it like it was obvious. It wasn't.

"Why didn't you?" Your nose scrunched so Simon smoothed it out with his thumb.

"Didn't think it'd be a good idea." The warm brown of his eyes flickered as his gaze roamed your face, finally taking in how lucky he was being able to look at you so close up.

"But you changed your mind." You offered, assuming that was right.

It was. "I did."

"Why?"

He chuckled. "So many questions."

You cowered slightly. "Sorry."

"Don't be sorry, Sarge." He bumped his nose against yours. "You looked sad when I didn't."

Oh, bollocks. "You noticed that?"

He nodded, looking as if he pitied you. "You're not very good at hiding your emotions. Your face speaks volumes."

Double bollocks. "Then you must've known how I felt for ages."

"Suspected. Thought it was wishful thinking."

There were a whole array of words to express how stupid he was. You refrained from using all of them and stayed silent.

Unlucky for you, Simon could read it on your face. "I can tell you're itching to insult me."

"But I'm not going to." You shook your head, readjusting on the pillow beneath you. "All I'll say is... you're so pretty, Simon."

"Oh, bugger off." He moved to push away from you completely.

But you had other plans as you tightened your hold around his back. "Never!"

***

He landed on top of you with a groan and a mumbled apology. It was fine. You were trained to drag about three fully grown men out of a burning if you had to. He felt like nothing on top of you despite being six foot four and muscly as hell. It was rather nice actually, feeling all of him pressed up against you. And yes, that meant all of him.

Skin heating up at that, you hoped he didn't notice how you were suddenly burning as he lifted himself back onto his elbows and looked down at you. Nothing was said on the matter, which you were glad about. What you were even more glad about was him mumbling something about wanting more orgasms out of you and then proceeding to lower himself down your body, trailing tender kisses across your skin as he went.

When he got far enough down, Simon situated himself between your legs. It seemed to be his favourite place in recent times. Secretly, he'd admit it was. You didn't protest when he placed a large hand on either thigh and opened you up for him again, just let him do what he wanted. And he seemed very happy to spend his time pleasuring you and making sure you felt good even though he appeared to care very little about himself.

So, that's how you spent god knows how long. You writhing underneath his firm grip and him spending a countless amount of time between your legs as he drew out orgasm after orgasm. Even when you became sensitive and the overstimulation was getting to be too much, he just cooed and encouraged you further.

"Come on, Sarge. I know you can do one more for me. Just one more." He comforted you, fingers of one hand stroking the soft flesh of your inner thigh and the fingers of the other hand inside you. "Good girl. Come on."

Maybe he wasn't the only one with a thing for praise.

And after what seemed like hours of pure delight for you, he was finally satisfied with what he'd done and tentatively returned to his space next to you in bed.

He fell asleep quickly after that, you wrapped in his arms, with a relaxed expression on his face. And when you finally joined him in his state of unconsciousness after watching him breathe deeply for a while, you dreamt only of him. His face, his touch, his eyes roaming your mind. It was peaceful. And you were happy.

When you awoke to Simon placing lazy kisses along your shoulder you thought maybe you'd died and gone to heaven. The only reminder that this was still reality was the soreness between your legs and the dull ache you still had for him, craving him.

He was behind you, spooning you, and you could feel he was already hard against your back. "Good morning, Sarge."

Morning voice. Husky. Deep. Delectable. You could drown in it.

"Good morning." You returned, pressing back against him and loving the hiss he let out.

And before you knew it, your head was angled awkwardly to look over your shoulder so you could kiss him and he was sliding into you. Finally. You gasped into his mouth when he did, immediately urging him to move. His hands gripped your hips tightly, using you to help the friction.

You rocked against each other, the position not being one of your favourites as you couldn't see his face or reactions properly, but he made up for it with the sounds he was letting out right next to your ear. And it was intimate, you were still practically cuddling.

"Fuck, Sarge." He groaned into your shoulder, biting down slightly to muffle himself.

That only set you off further, grinding yourself back harder against him. You could do this forever, never wanted him to stop. No, you needed him to never stop. This was perfect. The two of you alone forever in your bed, not a care in the world. Just rounds and rounds of sex and the occasional conversation here and there.

You were caught off guard by his hand snaking around to your front and his fingers suddenly circling your clit.

You gasped and bucked against his hand. "Simo-" His name was cut off by another choked sound leaving your mouth. "Don't stop, please don't stop."

It didn't need to be said, the promise of not stopping was silent. But he gave you verbal confirmation anyway. "Never, Sarge. Come on. Come for me. That's it, good girl.”

The climax was approaching rapidly and he knew that from the way you were beginning to spasm around him, his own also crawling up on him. But you were priority.

So he held off until you were spent, head thrown back against him and eyes screwed shut as you let out breathless pants in a mixture of soft sounds.

He didn't stop, just quickened his pace as he hips began to falter. "Where, Sarge?"

You knew what he meant. "In me. Please, in me."

So he did. His warmth filled you up as he came inside you, immediately relaxing behind you with more kisses scattered along the skin of your shoulder.

After he pulled out of you, it took a few moments before you managed to catch your breath again. God, you'd never get enough of this.

***

There was suddenly heavy breathing behind you. Simon had fallen asleep again. Typical man.

With the remnants of him dripping out of you, you rushed off to the toilet to clean up and get partially ready for the day - you brushed your teeth and put on some clean clothes. When you were done, you returned to your bedroom to find him still fast asleep. You could leave him for a while longer. He always looked tired.

You trotted to the kitchen to make yourself a cup of tea, getting out a second mug and teabag for Simon when he finally woke up for good.

With your cup of tea in one hand and your phone in the other as you checked all your messages from friends wishing you a happy new year, you leant against the counter and failed to notice a certain someone waking up in your room some time later.

Simon awoke to a cold bed, his arm stretching out to find you only for you not to be there. He felt disappointed for a moment before remembering the events of earlier in the morning. Shit, had he really fallen back to sleep instantly?

A sense of embarrassment flooding through him, he sat up quickly and looked around. His clothes were tossed to various places around the room, as were yours. You really hadn't bothered to clean up. He liked that for some reason.

He had nothing else with him so just pulled his t-shirt and boxer briefs back on from the day before, hoping they weren't too crinkled. But he doubted you'd care if they were.

Then, before leaving your bedroom, he thought of you. And what had finally happened between the two of you. Even though he probably should've, he didn't regret it one bit.

Simon Riley had been torturing himself for weeks over you. The feelings had started growing as soon as you smiled at him in the goddamn cheese aisle, before you even knew who he was. And whilst they hadn't solidified until a little more down the line, he knew he wouldn't be able to let you go after that. And when you actually seemed to like him - him, not Ghost, not Lieutenant Riley, just Simon - he knew he was inevitably screwed.

It didn't help that you looked at him so adoringly, never a glimpse of hostility in your sparkling eyes, with an ever permanent smile on your lips. It's like you were daring him to try not being head over heels for you. And he'd hate himself for breaking every rule ever laid out to him by Price and other higher ups if you didn't make him feel so good, so warm inside.

And that's exactly what he felt as he walked in on you in your kitchen, humming to yourself as you rifled through your fridge for something to eat. The usual tingling sensation you set off in him was in full power as you turned to him, smiling spreading at the sight of him and eyes twinkling. It didn't help that you looked flushed and glowing with your slightly messed up hair and shaky legs. Freshly fucked, he'd describe it as. And he was the cause.

He approached you without a moment of hesitation, cupped your face in his hands and kissed you. "Good morning, Sarge."

You smiled against his mouth. "Second good morning, actually. We already did this once."

"Mhm, and what an amazing first good morning it was." He hummed against you, kissing you again. And again. And again.

Reluctantly you broke away, not fully out of his grasp though. "Do you want tea?"

"I'd love tea." He replied, still not letting you go.

"Simon, I need my body to make you tea." You chortled.

"And I need your body for other things." He whispered into your ear.

"Cheeky." You scoffed and pushed him away. "I will make you tea. Go sit down."

He agreed only after planting another lingering kiss on you and left for the living room. This was surreal to him. He was with someone he liked. Who liked him back. And you were... happy together. There was no underlying venom or bitterness fuelling the feelings, specifically the lust, between you. This kind of thing didn't happen for Simon Riley. Maybe he was dreaming. Maybe he'd wake up in some cold safe house a million miles away from here only to find out this was some sick fantasy his mind conjured to play cruel tricks on him. But you were so warm and so good, so everything Simon didn't deserve. Which is why he'd selfishly keep you for as long as he could.

And when you emerged out of the kitchen, precariously balancing two cups of tea, with a look towards him full of adoration, he knew he was so screwed that it was almost funny. Simon decided then that if you thought about him half as often as he thought about you, with just a pinch of the infatuation he felt for you, that he was a very lucky man.

"I haven't got much for breakfast, I'm afraid. Probably got a box of Cheerios or something in a cupboard. Or we could go out to eat. If you'd like." You suggested, stood in front of him with your hands twisting together in embarrassment. You weren't used to hosting company in the mornings and having him here was so strange after him leaving before daybreak all the previous times he'd slept on your sofa. This was different though. This time he'd slept in your bed.

Simon stared up at you, intensity gone from his gaze to leave only affection. "I don't care." He really didn't.

He didn't need some fancy breakfast cooked up for him. He didn't need the probably stale cereal you offered. He didn't need anything aside from one thing.

All he needed, for now, was you.

A/N: I’ll let them be happy… for now. Please don’t comment on the smut if it’s bad. And full disclosure: Sarge and Soap were listening to Baby Got Back.

Thanks to @ramadiiiisme for consulting with me on the smut 🙏🥰

#simon ghost riley x reader #simon ghost riley x you #simon ghost riley fanfiction #simon ghost riley #simon riley x reader #simon riley x you #simon riley fanfiction #simon riley #ghost riley x reader #ghost riley x you #ghost riley #ghost riley fanfiction #ghost x reader #ghost x you #ghost fanfiction #ghost #call of duty #call of duty modern warfare 2 #modern warfare 2 #modern warfare #call of duty modern warfare #simon ghost riley smut #simon riley smut #ghost riley smut #ghost smut #ej’s fics #ej’s writing #deakyjoe’s fics #deakyjoe’s writing

[thelaisydazy]

Mama's Boy - Chapter 3

Simon "Ghost" Riley x Petra "Mama" Mayfield

Previous Chapter ┊ Next Chapter

Tap. Tap.

Petra rapped her knuckles against the frame of Captain Price’s door, seeing the captain sitting at his desk through the open door. The older man had been smoking his cigar and looking over some paperwork. He looked up seeing the medic standing in his doorway. Price was a good bit older than Petra, she’d guess at least a decade but she couldn’t be certain. He sported a short, well-kept beard, mostly dark brown with a few flecks of gray. His hair was the same color as his beard and it was cropped short and usually covered by a bucket hat. In many ways he reminded her of her father back home, a hardass at times, but he clearly cared for the team and usually greeted them with a smile that looked all too goofy on his face.

“Mama,” he smiled, his eyes crinkling as he did. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Several things, sir,” Petra said, not matching the pleasantness in his voice, she stood stiffly across the desk from him. She did her best to keep from scrunching her nose up at the smell that wafted from his cigar as it made her stomach churn. “First, when Laswell told me about the team, she mentioned I was being brought on as a combat medic. But the team has gone on several missions since my arrival and I’ve remained on base for all of them.” Petra caught herself a moment later, correcting her posture to stand straight, arms folded at her back, shoulders squared. “Being cooped up in the clinic isn’t exactly what I’d signed on for. I was made to believe my skills would be needed on the field as well.”

Price was quiet for a moment, taking a long puff of his cigar. “You’re right,” he said, blowing out thick smoke. “In all honesty, we don’t have a medical team here. I’d rather not put the only medic we have in a position to get injured herself.”

She tensed at his words. Despite it being an hour or two later, Ghost’s words still burned in her ears. You're our only medic. We can't afford to have you laid up for a few days.

“That brings me to my other issue,” Petra said. “If there is so much of an issue with risking me out on the field, why not have another medic on base?” She paused for a moment as another thought dawned on her. “Honestly, sir, if your intention from the start had been to simply have a medic to keep the clinic running smoothly, I would have rather gotten my discharge finalized.”

Price seemed taken aback by this, his eyes widening. “Now, I never said anything like that,” he said defensively, putting his hands up in defeat. “I know this isn’t exactly what you signed up for. I’m grateful you’ve stuck around this long Mama.”

“Don’t Mama me,” Petra’s voice was sharp, words spilling out despite herself. She stepped quickly forward, pressing her palms against the desk with a sigh. “Please, just give me a chance at least. I have more skills than just counting supplies and tracking Ghost down when he thinks he doesn't need medical attention.”

Captain Price was quiet for a moment, placing his cigar down on the ashtray on his desk. His face was that of understanding, though Petra could see a flash of annoyance in his eyes at her tone. The medic stepped back a few paces, standing at attention again, apologizing quietly.

“You’re right, Petra,” he finally said. “We haven’t been giving you the chance to show us what you can really do. I’ll look for a second medic to keep on base. In the meantime, how often do your duties in the clinic need to be fulfilled?”

Has it been this easy all along? Petra asked herself. “Ideally, counts should be done daily,” she started. “However with how few of us there are, every other day should suffice as long as the clinic is kept locked when it isn’t in use.” She saw Price shift, about to speak. “I can set up a small first aid kit with some basics outside the door if anyone needs anything simple.”

The older man nodded thoughtfully. “Alright. Then on the days when you aren’t doing counts, I want you training,” he said. “Mornings you can work on hand-to-hand combat and in the afternoon you’ll be on the range. How’s that sound, lass?”

“Perfect, sir,” Petra said, satisfaction rising in her chest.

“Good, we start tomorrow with your training,” Price nodded, picking up his cigar again. “Might take a few weeks to get a new medic out here, but I’ll see what I can do. Now get your counts done.”

“Yes Sir.” Petra turned to leave, pausing at the door. “Sir,” she said. “If I may, I’ve worked closely with Whip from Ankara. He’s a good medic and he won’t mind being stuck on base if need be.” Price nodded, jotting the name down on a notepad.

---

Petra stood in the clinic, carefully counting the supplies and medicines they had stocked. She made notes of what she’d need for the first aid kit: bandages of varying sizes, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial ointments, and a small bottle of over the counter, generic painkillers. Anything that required more than that she’d need to deal with herself anyway.

A styrofoam cup filled with coffee appeared on the counter beside her.

Petra turned quickly, seeing Ghost standing there again holding a cup of his own that looked far too small in his hand, balaclava still concealing his features. The medic raised a brow at him, picking the cup of coffee from the counter, sipping the bitter drink, and ignoring the way it burned her tongue.

“I didn’t take you for a coffee guy,” she said, turning back to her count.

“It’s tea,” Ghost answered. She didn’t have to look at him to know he was watching her with those dark eyes of his. “Price said you were starting training tomorrow.”

Petra clicked her tongue as she finished counting a shelf, scribbling down the numbers.

“If I can’t handle a run, right?” she quipped back. She brought the coffee back to her lips, sipping it. “I was thinking of asking Gaz or Soap for help with hand-to-hand combat. Roach is good with guns, right?” Ghost only hummed in affirmation. “I might get his help on the range then.”

There was something in his dark eyes as he watched the way her thumb stroked the warm Styrofoam cup she was holding, something she couldn't quite read. She might've been able to, had it not been for that damned balaclava he always wore. Another quiet moment passed as the two drank the warm liquids in their cups.

“Why the sudden interest?” Ghost broke the silence, still watching her, observing. In the few months she’d been with the team, she’d never so much as mentioned going into the field.

Petra hummed over her coffee. “I’m not used to being cooped up,” she answered simply. “I was about to be discharged when Laswelll recruited me. Figured if I’m going to stay enlisted, I might as well get the most out of it.”

“Discharged? You were going to leave?” His question didn’t come as a surprise, she’d been one signature away from heading home when she joined the task force.

“Needed to get away,” Petra barely explained, she leaned back against the counter, finishing the last of her coffee. It was strong. She didn’t say much about her reasoning for leaving the military, letting her quick response hang in the air, though she could see understanding in Ghost’s eyes. “I need to get back to work. Thanks for the coffee.”

---

That night at dinner, Petra sat in the common area with the rest of the team, it was one of those rare nights where everyone was eating together. Gaz had made a trip into the nearby town, returning with enough food for everyone to share. Chinese. Petra was seated on the beaten couch next to Roach, legs tucked under herself as she bit into a few vegetables. The room was quiet. Soap, Gaz, and Price were all at the table eating, Ghost in a chair a little further away, his balaclava pulled up over his nose. This was the most Petra got to see of his face, the contour of his jaw and the tiny bit of light color stubble over his chin.

A tap on her shoulder caught her attention, Petra turned to Roach, who motioned like he was holding a cup. She nodded as he stood and walked to the fridge, and retrieved a pair of water bottles. She thanked him with a motion of her hand as he returned, twisting the lid off and drinking a few gulps.

Over her shoulder she could hear Soap and Gaz talking, Soap’s thick Scottish accent making it difficult to understand what he was saying. He was one of the shorter members of the task force, though he was still much taller than Petra. His blue eyes caught Petra watching him.

“Yer not fixin’ to throw another shoe at me are ya, lass?” he shot through a mouthful of noodles. Despite his annoyance earlier that day, Petra could tell he’d calmed down and had now taken to teasing her about the incident.

She grinned at him. “Yeah, I was trying to figure out if my aim was good enough to hit that stupid mohawk of yours without getting Gaz in the process,” she teased back. She could see Price shake his head, a bad attempt to hide his smile as Gaz turned in his seat.

“I brought everyone dinner, I’d rather not get hit,” the sergeant pleaded, pressing his palms together and bowing his head. Gaz had darker skin and the shadows of a black mustache, his black curls were hidden under his cap. “But please knock that thing off his head.”

“Away an bile yer heid!” Soap barked.

“English! MacTavish,” Ghost grunted in annoyance from across the room, his eyes sharp on the man.

“Sorry sir, let me translate,” Soap snapped back, turning his glare back to Gaz. “Go fuck yourself.”

Behind her, Petra thought she heard a chuckle from Roach as he reached out a hand giving a thumbs up.

“Better,” Ghost rumbled, returning to his meal.

Captain Price stood up, chuckling and shaking his head. “You lot have far too much energy for this late in the evening,” he said. “I'm off.” The captain left the room then, heading for his quarters for the evening.

When everyone else had finished eating, Soap fished a few beers from the fridge. He slid one across the table to Gaz and tossed one to Roach. Ghost, as always refused the beer, opting to make himself a cup of tea instead. Soap offered one to Petra who shook her head.

“You don't drink, Doc?” Soap asked, raising a brow.

“I don't make a habit of it,” Petra replied. “Occasionally I like tequila.” She laughed when Soap twisted his face, complaining that tequila tasted of dog piss.

“Next time we go out drinking you're coming with us, lass,” Soap beamed.

Petra could just picture the Scotsman drinking entirely too much, ending up with a hangover the next morning and begging her for something for his headache. In the few times the guys had gone out for drinks since she’d arrived, he’d had a hangover every time.

“Sounds like a blast,” she rolled her eyes as she spoke. Though, it wouldn’t be the worst idea to spend a little time with the team, especially if she was to join them in the field soon. A warm mug of coffee slid into her hands, making her turn green eyes up to Ghost as he walked back to his chair near the corner of the room. Petra paused, taking a sip, the warm liquid radiating through her body, calming her and clearing her mind, jogging her memory. “I had a chat with Price earlier about going on missions with you guys, he said I needed to get some more training in before then. Mornings working on hand-to-hand combat and afternoons on the range, I’d really appreciate some help getting back up to speed.”

There was a tap on her shoulder. Roach signed his willingness to help eagerly as he grinned over the neck of his bottle of beer.

Gaz turned to face the couch, raising his hand slightly, his face questioning. “Hold on,” he said. “Not that no one wants you coming with us, but if you’re training all the time, who’s taking care of the clinic?”

“It's gonna be locked up when I'm not in there,” Petra explained, sipping at her coffee again. She might regret the caffeine so late at night, but the taste was so soothing and warm she couldn't help it. “But I'm going to leave a first aid kit with some basic supplies in it in case something happens, and if there's anything serious I'll just open the clinic and take care of it. In the meantime though, Price is looking into getting another medic on base.”

Soap clapped a hand on her back then, nearly making her spill the coffee and eliciting a glare from Ghost. “Well lass, I'll be happy to help you with the combat training in the morning,” he said, a wide grin on his face.

The medic looked up at him sharply, noting his beer was already half empty. She was grateful he was willing to help her, but she half expected him to be too hungover in the morning to be of any real help. Still, she nodded her appreciation.

---

A few hours later, Petra and Ghost were herding the sergeants to their dorms, the former giggling as Gaz and Soap half stumbled down the hall. The lieutenant was less amused, hanging back and grumbling as Ghost could hear Roach snoring from where he'd been thrown over the broad man’s shoulder.

After ushering Gaz and Soap into their respective rooms, Petra opened Roach's door, allowing Ghost to carry him inside, dropping the young soldier on the bed before rejoining Petra in the hall.

Petra was shaking her head, holding back a giggle and smiling. “I'd hate to see what they're like out at a bar,” she joked.

“About the same,” Ghost rumbled. He turned dark eyes to her, the mask over his face giving nothing away. He lingered in the hallway for a moment before turning and starting to walk away.

A short while later, Petra found him outside as she was bringing a bag of the night's garbage out to the dumpster. He was standing near the backdoor, back leaned against the wall, a lit cigarette between his lips.

“Those things can kill you, you know,” she said, raising a brow as he turned to look at her. The two of them stood there in silence for a while, staring each other down. Then Petra held her hand out, leaving the bag of garbage on the ground next to the door.

Ghost watched her for a moment, his lidded eyes questioning before he relented, holding out the cigarette and tensing as he prepared to be scolded by the medic. Instead, his eyes widened with surprise as Petra brought the cigarette to her lips, taking a drag and blowing out the bitter smoke. He watched as her shoulders relaxed a bit and some of the tension left her body.

“I didn't expect you smoked,” he said, fishing a new cigarette from his pocket and lighting it.

“Were you expecting me to scold you?” Petra asked, a smirk playing on her lips.

“A bit,” Ghost replied, flicking some ash from his cigarette. He watched her a few moments longer, allowing himself to take in the way she looked. The frizzy dirty blonde curls, still damp and barely tamed into a low bun at the back of her head. The tired but focused look in her green eyes. She always looked so determined, resolute in whatever task she set herself to. This afternoon in the gym had been the first time he’d seen those eyes falter.

He’d spotted her running on the treadmill when he entered for his own workout. Admittedly, he stopped and just watched her for a while, the way her body moved, the way the softer parts of her moved just slightly more with each step. Her eyes had lost focus though, looking as if they could see clear through the wall of mirrors in front of her. He’d walked closer then, keeping his eyes on her, waiting for her to notice he’d approached her, but she didn’t. Instead, in her daze, her steps faltered and her legs started to give way.

Ghost sprang forward then, scooping the small medic up and placing her all too gently on the concrete floor. His heart pounded in his chest like a freight train. It felt as though he’d been holding his breath when her eyes finally looked at him, focusing again.

Perhaps he’d been too harsh in his reaction, but he felt no need to apologize for his actions. The task force didn’t need an injured medic.

“What’s the real reason you’re suddenly so interested in going on missions?” he asked, watching her snuff out the last of the stolen cigarette. “If you were so upset about not getting discharged, you would have left by now.”

“I don’t like feeling like I’m not doing anything,” Petra said. She bent down, her small hand wrapping itself around the top of the garbage bag she’d carried out. “I need to feel useful, you know?”

Ghost nodded his understanding, blowing out another puff of smoke. “You waited three months to speak up?” he pressed.

Petra put a hand up. “It didn’t sink in until earlier today in the gym,” she said. “I’ve been here three months and I still don’t exactly know what you guys do out there. I haven’t been off of a base in even longer, I think it’s been six months.”

The lieutenant was quiet again, he stood away from the wall, bending and taking the garbage bag from her, his large hand brushing over her smaller one as he did. Petra drew her hand back, looking up at him again as he effortlessly lifted the bag and carried it to the nearby dumpster before returning to where he’d left her by the door. The two of them lingered there for several long, quiet moments, the smell of cigarettes between them.

“You are useful, Mama,” Ghost broke the silence. His gaze was heavy on her, holding her in that spot with the weight his eyes held alone. “Roach was in bad shape when you first came here, you nursed him back to health, helped him get his strength back. And a few days ago, you might have saved my life as well. Don’t doubt yourself.”

Petra softened as she caught the usual coldness in his eyes briefly thaw as he spoke. She tore her eyes from him, looking to her boots instead.

“Thanks Ghost.”

#call of duty #simon ghost riley #simon riley x oc #ghost x oc #simon ghost riley x oc #cod fanfic #dazyfic #Mama's Boy fic #petra mama mayfield #petra mayfield #mama

[ecoamerica]

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[thenationaltreasuregazette]

To the editor,

Your response seriously made my day: 10/10!! I am very interested in your analysis of a) Ben’s exact relationship with the Navy and b) how wack his finances must be.

However! I have another question. What do you think Sadusky and co. would have done with Abigail, Riley, and Patrick after Ben flew off to Boston? My personal headcanon is that the Declaration got taken to the NYC branch of the National Archives (on Abigail’s suggestion of course) and Abigail/Riley/Patrick got put up in a hotel for the night where the FBI could keep an eye on them. but I know nothing about FBI protocol and I’m interested in your take on it. Would the FBI have put them up in a hotel for the night to keep an eye on them? Are Abigail and Riley still technically suspects in an ongoing case and would be held in custody?

As always, love your work!

Aftermath, Part 1

Hi anon!

I'm glad you’ve enjoyed this project so far.

So…I sat on this question for *checks watch* about 3500 years. I’ve always wanted to write a fic about the post-Trinity events and I thought, “Well I’ll do that, use the fic to collect my thoughts, and then answer the question.”

Lmao.

The naiveté.

The hubris.

That’s clearly not going to happen any time in the next calendar century so let’s dig in.

I think there would be a lot of aftermath to the events of National Treasure on a lot of fronts. Let’s break them down into:

Medical

Legal

Archeological

Interpersonal

Medical

We’ve already discussed the various injuries Team Treasure might have accumulate here, and here, so I won’t spend too much time on this, but I do think medical evaluations would be one of the FBI’s first priorities.

There are plenty of universes, real and fake, where I don’t think the FBI would very much care about the well-being of the people who stole the Declaration of Independence, whether they returned it or not. But National Treasure is not one of those universes. The FBI in the NT world are basically good guys, and the movie frames Sadusky especially as a good person who cares about the fate of the treasure, and even the people searching for it.

In the 2003 script there’s actually a moment where Sadusky has a chance to take a shot at Ben but can’t bring himself to do it. Which is interesting as hell and paints their dynamic pretty differently. With this removed in the final film, the FBI never poses a physical threat to Team Treasure—that’s Ian’s department. The FBI’s role is more the existential threat of getting caught before finding the treasure.

They also have reason to believe there might be at least one hostage/unwilling participant wrapped up in this mess. Again in the 2003 script, the FBI discusses multiple times whether Abigail is an accomplice in the theft or not.

REPORTER (ON SCREEN) (CONT'D) …Dr. Abigail Chase, a museum employee who has been reported as missing. Police did not say whether Dr. Chase is a suspect or a witness, only that she is the only National Archives employee not currently accounted for…

And later

INT. FBI, HOLDING CELLS - DAY Sadusky moves purposefully down a line of holding cells, stops at one. Inside, sits Abigail. SADUSKY We know you're not involved. You're free to go.

Although this angle doesn't become a plot point in the final film, the circumstances of Abigail's involvement haven't changed, so they would likely still be considering it. And since Ben has been going out of his way not to implicate her ("I did it alone. Dr. Chase was not involved.") they might not know how complicit she becomes in the hunt.

They’ve likely also had someone surveilling Patrick’s house since their initial visit, and might or might not know he’s been taken as well.

I think it’s beyond plausible to say that there’s an ambulance waiting among what I assume is a small fleet of black SUVs parked outside Trinity Church. (They’ve probably even blocked off the street until they know how things have played out.)

After Ben and Sadusky head off to the helicopter, I imagine Abigail, Riley, and Patrick are asked if they need medical attention. I can see Riley pouting and asking for a bandaid for his splinters, and receiving less sympathy from the paramedic than he’d hoped for.

Abigail initially waves them off, until Riley touches her shoulder and it’s clear that she’s in real pain. As I said here, in addition to a killer bruise, I think it’s very possible that Abigail tore the rotator cuff in her left shoulder during the stair sequence. If that’s the case, she’d probably get a sling in addition to pain killers and one of those instant ice packs. There’s not much else the EMTs can do, and it’s not an ER-urgent problem.

Patrick, being a vaguely sensible person who is fully aware that he was the least physically equipped for an adventure like this, lets the paramedics check him out, but they declare him in good health.

Legal

Once everyone is declared Basically Fine™ by the paramedics, it’s down to legal business, and there’s probably a lot of it.

Like you, I also headcanon that the FBI makes Team Treasure stick around in New York. I also know nothing about FBI protocol, and frankly I don’t even know where I’d start trying to look up what they’d do in this particular situation, so I’m just going to make it up.

I feel pretty confident about the fact that the FBI wouldn’t just let them go, because a) that’s no fun and b) that’s a very stupid way to run an intelligence agency. I like to think they were all held in New York for a couple of days of debriefing. The FBI took them to a kinda shabby hotel near the FBI’s New York field office, which is just a few blocks uptown from Trinity Church. There were agents keeping tabs on them, and for at least the first day they were told not to talk to each other. That’s not too much of a problem, because I imagine once they get to the hotel, each of them goes into their room, maybe stays awake long enough to take a shower, and promptly passes out from sheer exhaustion.

This also opens up a fun window of clothing possibilities! Do they do this entire debriefing sequence in FBI sweatpants? If you want them to! (I certainly do.)

Ben returns that night with Agent Sadusky, and the debriefing interviews start early the next morning. These aren’t interrogations per se, but Sadusky and his team intend to drill into every last detail of how this all went down. How Ben and Ian met. At what point this tipped into an “operation of questionable legality.” How Riley got involved. Exactly how they pulled off the heist so that the National Archives security system can be upgraded accordingly. At what point Abigail leaned into the whole mess. Etc, etc, etc.

This can be a whole mess of fun fic- and headcanon-wise for a couple of reasons. First of all, we’re set up to do the revolving interrogation trope. Not sure what it’s actually called, but you know, it’s that trope where the squad is all being questioned separately and we’re cutting between them as they fill in different pieces of the story and/or give wildly differing accounts of the same events. Always a good time.

And then there’s the possibility of learning more about the heist and the characters. What didn’t we see in the movie? See also, missing time.

In a real-ish world scenario, this would also be a good time to get some lawyers involved. I know Sadusky said they’re off the hook, but both the FBI and Team Treasure are probably going to want that in writing. You know with like, the terms on their deal and the extent of their implied immunity, etc. (I’m watching Suits right now, can you tell?)

Ben has to know a lawyer who specializes in treasure hunting and other found property stuff. I find it wildly implausible that he hasn’t ended up in at least one tight legal spot before due to his treasure hunting activities. Ben’s also pretty broke, so he’s definitely not running to this guy frequently, but in a real pinch I bet Ben has a number to call.

Abigail would likely have a friend or acquaintance who’s a lawyer. Between the kind of work she does, the city she lives in, and the kind of person she is, she would probably cross paths with plenty of lawyers. Maybe she’s friendly with one from the gym, or her building, or had a friend from college who went to law school. Even if this person doesn’t specialize in criminal/contract law or whatever is needed here, I bet they’d have a recommendation of who to turn to.

And Riley? He seems the least likely to want to get lawyers involved (doesn’t trust them) but he did commit a bunch of minor crimes during the course of this adventure. Yes, Ben did the actual stealing of the Declaration, but Riley broke into the subway, hacked into the archives, triggered the heat sensor, drove the getaway car, and, along with Abigail, colluded with Ian to break Ben out of custody. Once news of the treasure breaks, it would be hard to go after the guy who actually found the thing. Ben’s the face of the treasure, and comes with a story of thirty years of perseverance and absolute faith in a family dream. It would be second hardest to go after the archivist who got accidentally caught up in the whole thing and risked her safety to keep the Declaration safe. It would be easiest to go after the tech guy. He committed lots of smaller crimes and doesn’t have the public persona that Ben does or the ‘innocence’ factor that Abigail has.

So yeah, Riley might want some help. I imagine he has a whole network on online friends and allies, and one of them is bound to be or know a lawyer. He only has to put out the call on his go-to chat forum (it’s 2004) and someone will be or know a lawyer in NYC who he can talk to. That said, I still think he’d be reluctant to trust this person, but depending on how much pressure the FBI is putting on him, he might force himself to reach out. Ben and Abigail likely pressure him to do this as well.

And finally there’s the matter of the treasure and where that stands. As we discussed here, even thought the dialogue of the final scene implies that someone else owns the treasure and Ben was awarded a percentage by like, a board or a court or something, he appears to actually own the treasure outright. That actually sounds like a huge headache imo. Now instead of turning the treasure over to the FBI and letting them coordinate everything, Ben is seemingly on the hook for a lot of the logistics himself.

Which brings us to…

...the crushing realization that I am not going to finish this tonight. Let's call it a two-parter! See you next week!

#the national treasure gazette #national treasure #national treasure meta #ben gates #abigail chase #riley poole #peter sadusky

[darkherolovercroissant]

You Can’t Kill A Ghost

Library

Simon Ghost Riley, Templar, GN Reader

Warnings: Angst, Mature Themes and Language. Betrayal and death

This follows the Cod Mobile lore so once again unless you play CODM, you may not know Templar. Also fuck canon, I’m making Templar anti’s mad with the ending.

———————————————————————

You watched as Simon fiddled with one of his many knives after Shepard left the room. The atmosphere has completely changed in the room and you were feeling the sick feeling bubble up in your gut.

“You better tie your loose ends, or I will.”

That was the last thing Shepard said before he stormed out. You sat as Price lit a cigar and stormed off after him, trying to get him to see reason on why Ghost was in the right.

“You better not be planning what I think. You’re planning.” Your timid voice comes out

“It has to be done. No more loose ends, y/n” Simon replies

“Look, I know Templar shouldn’t be a free man, but for fucks sake Riley, he’s got a daughter that he’s trying to rescue and give a better life to.”

“You think I haven’t thought about that? After everything I went through, I’d hate to be the reason a child looses their family, but Templar has got to go. He’s a terrorist and you can’t expect him to just disappear.” he challenges

“You’ve underestimated Templar before and look what happened. Simon I care about you, you are more than my superior, you’re my friend, but this is too far.”

He storms out and you release a heavy sigh before storming out after him. This wasn’t going to be the ending either party was going to enjoy.

————

As you walked across the tarmac, you saw Ghost ahead of you. He was walking with Templar and the two were going over the mission details. Soon enough he was joined by a few of his old friends as was Ghost when Soap and others joined. You were about to board when Price grabbed your arm.

“Listen, I was told about you bunting heads with Simon. You in any way interfere with what needs to be done, it’ll come back to bite you in the ass.”

“I wasn’t bunting heads with that bastard, his ego wouldn’t allow for someone to challenge him. I just was trying to get him to see the reasoning I had, but he shut it down.” You hiss

“Remember what I said.” Price says before he walks away.

As you board the plane, Templar looks over and greets you, while Ghost stares holes right through Templar’s head.

“He’s got quite the staring problem, yes?” His French accent as deep as ever

“Just means he likes you.” You snicker as Templar shares a laugh with you.

“If only that was the case, chérie”

“So tell me about your daughter, she’s got to be the biggest thing in your life from the bits and pieces I’ve heard”

“ma fille, Sophia. One of the only good things in my life, her mom sadly passed in birth. Im all she has left and she’s all I have left. I want a better life for her and I, but the covenant is dead set on keeping her from me.” He sighs

“Don’t worry. We’re going to get her back, that life is just moments away” you smile

“Merci. I know it’s a lot to ask, especially since we aren’t well acquainted, but if anything should happen to me. Well just make sure Sophia gets out safely, this isn’t the life I want for my daughter.” Templar sighs

“You have my word.” You smile

Ghosts glare got more aggressive upon hearing your promise.

“You better tie your loose ends, or I will.”

More than one loose end to tie… Simon didn’t want to believe you’d betray him, after all, you two had major history. However he wouldn’t put it past you to sympathize with the enemy as Templar hasn’t had to do much to win you over in the past even though he and Ghost weren’t on the same team.

“You think he’s seducing them?” Soap chuckles

“I highly doubt it. Besides, he can try, but it’s me that they are under almost every night.” Ghost huffs

“Has anyone ever told you that you over share?” Soap asks genuinely

“Has anyone ever told you that you’re a bitch?” Ghost replied

“Oh ok. You know, I hope Templar seduces them. You’ve lost y/n privileges.” Soap groans

—————

“Im going after Stansfield” Ghost says

“Im going after Sophia” Templar replies

“And the DSM” he calls after him

“I know my job!” Templars voice echoes

“It all ends here” Ghost mutters

He was unaware that you had followed him into the building and heard him. The bastard really was going to tie up some loose ends. Poor Sophia had no idea what awaited her father.

————

You hear frantic footsteps and spotted Templar and a young girl, so that’s his little girl. You lead them out of the building and across the battlefield that was covered in blood and bullet casings.

“You need to get out of here now.” You rush as you push both Templar and Sophia to the helicopter.

The pilot was urging him to board, but Templar was scanning the battlefield for his friends and was about to go and save them before you pointed out the helicopters and jets that carried Shepards reinforcements and the final nail in the coffin for Templar.

“You need to leave, Templar! You will be killed and I’m not letting Sophia become an orphan. Go live that life you promised her!” You beg

He nods and boards the helicopter, you back up and it takes off and you sigh in relief. You knew that even though Templar would get away, you wouldn’t, but you saved a little girl the grief of loosing her last bit of family. That was all that mattered to you.

As the helicopter was out of sight, Ghost had came to the surface and looked around frantically.

“I got the DSM.” You said handing the piece to Ghost who just nods his head before leading you towards where Shepard was waiting.

Your stomach was turning and you were aware that it’s the end of the line for traitors.

Shepard looks at you in the eyes and growls before turning to Ghost.

“You still have some loose ends to tie up. I suggest you do it because if I do it, you won’t like how I do it.” He says

Ghost hands over the DSM before looking at Price with tired yet angry eyes. Price nods before rounding Soap and the rest up and sends them away. Ghost leads you away and his right hand rests on the one pistol that sits on his hip, while his left dangles over your shoulders.

“I don’t want to do this, but you’ve betrayed us by letting him live. Templar had to be killed, but you let him escape, so you can see why I’m upset.” He sighs

“I want you to understand that I was looking out for Sophia. Had Templar died, Sophia would’ve been made an orphan. I did it cause I know what’s it’s like to watch those betray the one who just wanted better for their children. I wasn’t letting that happen to Sophia.” You explain

He leads you inside the building that Templar and Sophia had fled from and grabbed his mask and pulled it off.

“I care about you y/n. You were one of my favourite soldiers, but you betrayed us. We can’t have traitors in the ranks, I’m sorry” he says

You nod and he pulls you closer to plant a kiss on your lips before pulling away and putting his mask back on.

“Turn around” he says

Nodding your head, you turned to face the wall as he brought his gun up to the back of your head.

“Any last words?”

“I hope the nightmares are worth it.” You reply

—————

He sat up one night and watched as the snow fell. It was December 24th, Christmas Eve and the Taskforce party for the year, but Ghost didn’t attend.

Ever since that day, he’s had trouble interacting with others. Not like he was much better before, but now he was even more difficult to get along with. His already short fuse was shorter if it was even possible. People walked on eggshells around him after someone made a “joke” about how everyone that Ghost cares about dies. Yeah that guy got sent to god, with same day shipping.

No one really knew much about their superior officer or his soldier, but they knew that it affected his sleep and his mental health. Now that the cold came, there was no one to warm him up and he’d be plagued with the same images in his head.

Watching as your body fell to the ground as blood rushed out of your head. He wouldn’t lie, he was ready to kill everyone when Shepard ordered your body to be burnt along with all the others that had fallen on that day. The original plan was to pretend he killed you and let you flee to a new place and lay low, but that went out the door when Shepard came in.

He muttered that he was sorry once again as he shot and killed the traitor.,You now became a ghost in his life. And anyone that’s ever attempted to kill him knows that you can’t kill a ghost. You’d haunt him and that’s how that will be until the devil desires him in the underworld.

Templar and Sophia were gone and safe somewhere, but he lost someone that he tried to protect all throughout the years of service. He should’ve known that not everyone gets their happily ever after.

#simon ghost riley #Templar #gender neutral character #cod mobile #betrayal #angst #no happy ending #darkherolovercroissant #no I will never shut up about how Templar deserved better even though he was a bad guy #fanfic #oneshot #based on call of duty mobile lore

[kryptoniteheadcanons]

Thoughts on Black Christmas (2019)

Uhh....brief mentions of sexual assault. Spoilers I guess ...it’s Black Christmas 2019 I don’t think anyone cares.

- I don’t know if I'm going to make a separate post comparing the three of the movies, I might end up saying everything I need to say  in this review. 

- Once again, stop making remakes and sequels that have nothing to do with the original. 

- That snow angle shot was actually pretty cool, I like it. 

- This movie being set at christmas is just as arbitrary as the first one. 

- Yeah, that diva cup thing was pretty awkward. Why did there have to be complete silence while she was putting it in? You couldn’t have used that time for dialogue?

- Oh hi Cary Elwes ….didn’t expect to see you here. 

- God I fucking hate it when professors call on you even though you didn’t raise your hand.

- Also they make Cary’s character so fucking creepy that the first time I saw this I he  assaulted Riley.

- “He totally went off on me because I asked why there were no women, or people of color, or queer people on the syllabus.” Yeah that is weird, most classics lists i’ve seen for colleges, even in 2019, at least have like Frankenstein or a book by one of the Bronte sisters. You have to be trying to not have a woman on the list. (Also: I don’t think they ever mentioned any of their majors? I feel like that would have been a good thing for character building, at least for Riley) 

- Yes, Riley does need to take back her agency and learn how to live her life again, but I don’t think getting up on stage to sing and dance about what is probably one of the most traumatic experiences her life, in front of the person who assualted her, is really the healthiest or safest way to do that. 

- Also, am I the only one that thinks Kris petitioning to get the bust removed from the main hall and that actually happening sounds weird? Maybe it’s just because I went to community college so I don’t know how larger, more established colleges work but that sounds like she was probably petitioning to get the name of the school changed and they just did the bust thing as a ‘compromise’. 

- What did they steal for Kris for the pledges to know that she had to be killed too? 

- Nate, dude, I know you have a migraine or whatever but just leave the room or something. 

- I feel like a lot of real world discussions about feminism and equal rights end up like the one that happened in the kitchen so I think maybe this needs to be said: We do need men in the world, however what we don’t need is bigots and abusers. Misogyny negatively effects all of us, you can talk about the issues men face without having to put down women. 

- I find it really odd that this movie claims to be a more ‘feminist’ version of Black Christmas (I have no idea if the director or writer intended that, maybe it was just a studio or marketing team thing) but they cut out the women’s reproductive rights subplot? How do you even do that? 

- I kind of wish this movie was a full on psychological thriller of Riley having to actually process her trauma instead of being a qausi-slasher movie. 

- Referencing the point above, I feel like the ending is in this weird limbo where it’s not weird enough to clearly be an allegory but it’s also not normal enough to be like, believable. 

- Was Riley’s smile fading at the end because one (or some of them) got out alive or because she realizes that she just destroyed half of the evidence that proves she and Kris didn’t kill all those people?

- Do I think this movie is misandrist propaganda? No. Do I think this movie is great and everyone should see  it? also No. I think its a movie that tried to do something good but fumbled and wound up in a no woman’s land of cringe dialogue and ham fisted morals. 

- also in case anyone was wondering, my favourite character was Jessie, she reminds me of one of my cousins. 

#Thoughts On #thoughts on horror #Black Christmas #Black Christmas 2019 #Feminism I Guess

[league-of-sam]

As Grim as the Reaper | Simon 'GHOST' Riley PREQUEL

Ghost x Reader, Graves x Reader

CHAPTER THREE

Phillip Graves x AFAB!Reader!OC 18+ MINORS DNI! t.w // angst, mental health, language, violence, death, sexual themes/SMUT, military inaccuracies, language inaccuracies (google translate).

As Grim as the Reaper: Masterlist

"You got everything you need, little bug?"

Shoving your last duffel bag stuffed to the brim with clothes into the back of the truck, you wiped the little dribble of sweat from your brow.

"Yeah, think so." you breathed.

Today was the day that you were moving.

Moving away from your family.

Away from your home.

Away from the SAS.

But it was for something new.

Today was the day, that after countless meetings and arguments and paperwork, you'd be transferring to the US Special Operations Unit, and moving to the United States for the foreseeable future.

"I'm so proud of you, you know." John said, taking your shoulders in his hands. "My little sister, off to see the world and fight like the hero I know she is."

You smiled, trying to hide the tears welling in your eyes, "Stop, John. You're gonna make me cry again."

"You're gonna be amazin', you know that right?"

"Course I am, I learned from the best after all, Captain."

He smiled, beaming down at you, "Damn right, ya did."

Once more, he pulled you close, hugging you tightly as if it'd be the last time he'd do it. But you were aware as much as he was that it would be a long time before you'd see each other again.

"Remember," he whispered. "We get dirty-"

"-and the world stays clean." you spoke back, a proud smile on your face. "I know."

He led you back into the building with a tight arm around your shoulder, turning slightly to click the car lock before shoving you through the door playfully, the two of you laughing as you moved down the corridor.

Waiting for you in the conference room with a screen set up was Kate Laswell, CIA Special Ops Chief handler.

She had been trying for the last four years to recruit you oversees, especially when your skill and antics with John in basic training caught wind, and soon everyone in the military was aware that unfortunately, there was a second Price, and she was just as good and as unorthodox as her idiot older brother.

After being injured in your last tour in Afghanistan with the British Army, you decided that now, you'd take her up on her offer, and transfer to the US branch of the SAS, the Special Ops unit.

She was overjoyed, of course, and a meeting with General Shepherd was set up as soon as humanly possible.

You hugged her as you greeted her, the woman becoming closer to you over the years she's checked in on you. You'd come to know her well, and honestly, it seemed like the only reason John finally gave in to this move was because he knew Kate would be responsible for you.

Taking a seat at the round table, John sat next to you, while Laswell opened the laptop to a waiting General.

"Kate? You read me?" His voice crackled on the stream.

"Loud and clear, General." She replied.

"Good." He nodded. "Hello again, Captain Price."

"General." John tipped his hat.

"And a pleasure to meet you, Sergeant Price." Shepherd greeted you.

"The pleasure is all mine, sir. Thank you for agreeing to this opportunity for me."

He waved you off with a chuckle, "As I understand it, we're the ones receiving the favour. I've read your file...you're incredibly skilled, Sergeant. I believe you'll fit in well with the team here."

"Thank you, sir."

You felt yourself blush at the praise. General Shepherd was one of the most esteemed men in the CIA, and to be complimented by him on your skill, well that was fucking awesome.

John nudged your shoulder with his, a grin of pride spread across his lips.

"However, you will still undergo training here. We have one of my best soldiers waiting for you, and you will begin training as soon as you're settled in. He will show you everything you need to know about being in Special Ops."

"Yes, sir. I can't wait to get started."

Shepherd nodded, and began to address Kate about an unrelated topic for a few moments, in which John took the opportunity to lean close and whisper.

"Don't get too in your head about Shepherd." He said, "He can be an absolute mard-arse, but don't take it personally."

"What, you don't like him?"

"Meh," John shrugged, "Worked with him on several occasions, he can just be...difficult. But ya gonna be fine, little bug. Just show him what ya got."

"Yeah."

It was Kate's turn to address you, then, pushing a small brown folder towards you. Picking it up, you flipped it open. Greeting you on the first page was a form to sign.

"Now this is just a basic consent form for your details to be shared within the team. Obviously, for reasons I'm sure we all know, we tend to keep your records as protected as possible, so we just need you to sign this to ensure you consent to your team knowing you."

You nodded, scrawling your signature on the black dotted line at the bottom of the page, before sliding the form back to her.

Next, was a profile page.

SAC Sergeant Alex Keller.

Age: 28.

Alias(es): Echo 3-1.

Specialisation(s): Close-quarter combat, knife combat, counter terrorism.

As you read over his file, you looked at the picture; sandy brown hair, blue eyes, moustache and beard groomed to perfection. Tattoos running down both arms.

Jesus, this man was gorgeous.

"Hey," You nudged John, "His moustache is almost better than yours."

"Fuck off is it-" He grumbled, rolling his eyes as he barely gave it a glance. "Ya such a cow, (Y/N)."

You couldn't help but laugh, hand over your mouth in an effort to preserve your professionalism.

"So, this'll be the guy training me?"

"Affirmative, sergeant. He is part of our Echo 3 team, the team you will temporarily join until we decide where you are best fit." Shepherd spoke.

"We are hoping to eventually form the secondary Echo team, Echo 6. With you being the first recruited for this project, you will be known as Echo 6-2, despite starting on the 3 team." Laswell said.

"Understood. Counter terrorism...there something going on?" You questioned.

"There always is." Shepherd answered. "Gotta be prepared for worst-case scenarios in this work, and our teams need you, Sergeant."

Both Laswell and Shepherd then continued to update the two of you on the current war on terror, the main enemies, problems, all general military things that you'd gotten used to hearing about in your years of service thus far.

"Now, the only thing left to address is your medical."

"Sir?" You said, eyebrows furrowed."

"Don't worry, you passed. But my medic team here are still feeling some concern over the injuries you sustained in your last deployment in Afghanistan."

"Oh."

"She's alright, General." John defended you.

"Are you, (Y/N)?"

You thought for a moment. Sure, the scar was still fresh on your torso, sometimes it hurt to lift heavier things than it usually did, sometimes it burned as you relived the memory. But taking the job with Special Ops was supposed to help you move on, not hold you back.

"I am, sir. I've been working hard here and I feel I'm in a place where I can move on from this. The injury will not hold me back, and I've recovered well."

"Good. That's exactly the answer I was hoping for. Welcome to the United States Special Operations Unit, Sergeant Price. I'll be there to formally greet you on your arrival."

With that, General Shepherd signed off, and the room settled into silence.

"Well, shit." You laughed.

Laswell joined you, pulling you to stand and wrapping her arms around you tightly, "I'm so proud of you, honey. You're going to be incredible."

"Thanks, ma."

You pulled away, locking eyes with John over Laswell's shoulder. She moved away to pack her things, allowing him to step into her place, wrapping his arms around you.

It didn't take long for you to bid goodbyes to the others around the base that you'd gotten to know well, albeit a few tears were shed. You were leaving behind the only family you had, after all.

"Gonna miss you." You mumbled into John's chest.

"I'll miss ya too, little bug. But don't worry, I'll call ya every chance I can, and Laswell's already given me your new address so I can send ya stuff."

"You don't have to do that-"

"Oh shut up before I change my mind."

You smiled sadly, squeezing him once more, "Thanks, John. Keep rockin' that bucket hat for me, yeah?"

With one last hug, he let you go, pushing you towards Kate.

You trudged over the car park, few solemn tears slipping from your eyes as you got closer and closer to your new life.

"I'll see you on the other side, Captain." You whispered, before turning and stepping into Kate's awaiting vehicle.

A whistle stopped you in your tracks, and as you turned back to face your brother, you let out a sob. Looking back at you was John, middle finger in the air.

I love you.

You smiled, returning the gesture, before climbing into the car, and watching as the figure of him got smaller and smaller as you drove away.

Missing John was going to damn-near kill you, but the anxious excitement that bubbled within you was increasing as you got closer to your new adventure. You couldn't help but feel like your life was about to change forever.

And hopefully, that was a good thing.

#simon ghost riley #simon riley #task force 141 #ghost mw2 #ghost cod #ghost fanart #call of duty #cod mw oc #cod mw2 #cod mwf2 #callofduty #gaming #cod mw19 #captain price #john mactavish #phillip graves #graves x reader #ghost x reader

[ecoamerica]

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#ACLA24 #ACLA24Leaders #youtube #youtube video #climate leaders #climate solutions #climate action #climate and environment #climate #climate change #climate and health #climate blog #climate justice #climate news #weather and climate #environmental news #environment #environmental awareness #environment and health #environmental #environmental issues #environmental justice #environment protection #environmental health #Youtube

[filmtvsummaries]

Season 1 - Episode 2 - ‘Everybody Dance Now’

Aired: March 12th, 2013

This episode starts with us seeing who made A-troupe. One by one the dancers come out onto the floor and dance while expressing how they feel about getting into A-troupe. The troupe consists of West, Emily, Eldon, Michelle, Stephanie, Daniel, Chloe, James, Riley and Tiffany. Some dancers, like James and Emily are not surprised they made it while people like Chloe and Daniel are very excited by it. The one previous A-troupe member who didn’t make it was Giselle. She was heartbroken that she didn’t make it and Emily told her that it is Michelle’s fault and she will find a way to get Giselle back on the team. Emily then goes to Michelle and tells her that she needs to work very hard because other people wanted that spot, very aggressively. We find out that James and Beth dated a few years prior and that Beth still has a thing for James, while James doesn’t feel the same. 

In Squeezed, the E-girls welcome Chloe and we find out a few rules. An E-girl always has another E-girl's back, an enemy of any E-girl is an enemy of all E-girls, and we find out about the E-girl handshake. While the group is talking, Giselle walks in and it gets awkward. Emily pulls Giselle aside and tells her that because she isn’t in A-troupe anymore, she can’t be an E-girl. Riley does not agree with this decision. Giselle then goes to studio A and does a goodbye dance which was really powerful. She believes that if she danced like that at the audition, she would still be A-troupe. She got too comfortable, and she swears she will never do that again. 

Kate and Chris are discussing who should be dance captain. Kate thinks that Emily should be captain, but Chris thinks that Michelle should have a chance. We also find out about ‘Baby ballet’ and we see James and Eldon teaching the class. However James is doing maths homework and doesn’t understand anything. He is failing the class which isn’t good.

Back at Squeezed, the E-girls are discussing a shopping trip, but Chloe is resistant to it. We find out that this is because Chloe has to pay for her own dance expenses and doesn’t have much money to use for herself. The other girls don’t like that Chloe doesn’t want to come. We found out that another rule is if one E-Girl goes shopping, all E-Girls go shopping. While this is happening, Michelle walks in and sits with them. The girls express that the seat is Riley’s and Michelle realises she isn’t welcomed and moves to sit next to West who comforts her about it. 

First day rehearsals are meant to start and Michelle is waiting at studio B because Stephanie tells her that rehearsal will be there. Giselle finds her and let’s her know that it is never in studio B and Michelle realises she has been set up. She then apologises to Giselle for taking her spot but Giselle reassures her that it is okay and not her fault. She also warns Michelle about the E-girls and to be cautious. They part ways and Giselle enters B-troupe rehearsals and is not happy with what is happening: No actual rehearsal.

Michelle makes it back to studio A seconds after Chris and Kate ask about where she is. Michelle says she got lost but Kate and Chris aren’t not that impressed and Emily and Stephanie are giving Michelle sour looks. Kate announces they are looking at getting their dance captain elected and Emily automatically thinks it will be her, but Kate says that she thinks Michelle should also try out and coerce Michelle into agreeing. Emily and the other E-girls are not happy.

Opinions

I really don’t like Emily or Stephanie. I don’t really like any of the E-girls, but Riley and Chloe don’t seem too bad. I like Giselle and I feel bad for her. I also like Michelle. West and  Eldon seem like cool characters. 

So far I think that Eldon, Chloe and Daniel are the strongest dancers. But everyone is good. I also like how there is a variety of styles and it isn’t just straight cut.

Cast

Bree Wasylenko as Kate

Shamier Anderson as Chris

Victoria Baldesarra as Michelle 

Alexandra Beaton as Emily 

Jordan Clark as Giselle 

Brennan Clost as Daniel

Samantha Grecchi as Stephanie

Lamar Johnson as West

Isaac Lupien as Eldon

Jennifer Pappas as Chloe

Tamina Pollack-Paris as Tiffany

Brittany Raymond as Riley

Trevor Tordjman as James

Robbie Graham-Kuntz as Charlie 

Megan Mackenzie as Beth 

Megan Moniz as Sarah

Luke Zuliani as Zach

#the next step #tns #dance

[astradreaming]

Hey^^, so I read your dad ghost x daughter reader, and I really enjoyed it, so I wanted to ask if you could write general headcannons for x daughter reader. It doesn't have to be ghost specifically if you'd rather write for someone else.

hii :D I did all of 141 so apologies that it took so long :) ♡ Hope you enjoy it! Have a good day/night lovely's ♡

masterlist

Simon 'Ghost' Riley:

I am 100% biased but he'd be the best dad ever. (even if in the beginning he didn't believe it)

Definitely got closer to you as you grew up, like from the age of about five he became your bodyguard/buddy but before that, he just saw you as this small fragile thing that would break if he moved the wrong way. It wasn't until you'd come back inside from playing with a bloody knee from scraping the pavement saying how you hoped you'd get a 'cool scar like daddy's ones' did he realize you were your own little person now.

He'd teach you everything he could, how to defend yourself, football (soccer), anything and everything he could.

He'd be so gentle even after you'd grown up. He wants to shield you from the world, from the bad in it. 100% did everything he wished his father would have.

He'd be so overprotective for your whole life doesn't matter if your five or 25 he's still by your side being 'scary dog privilege' aka scaring anyone in your general field of view.

He'd never let you have boys over.

If he did let them study (BIG IF), he'd be there lurking around the living room (where he'd force you to stay). I'd be very surprised if any boy stayed longer than 20 minutes before backing out even if you were just friends Ghost is just too scary. If however, a boy can deal with the death glares and snarky mumbles, Simon didn't know whether to have slight respect or even more worried. 'Damn kids got balls... the fuck am I gonna do now, that usually works'. 😧🤺🤺

I can imagine how if you got into trouble for standing up to some bullies (totally not based on a story I'm currently making👀) where the headmaster had to call Simon in it'd be hilarious. A squeaky old headmaster ranting about the rules you broke to a 6'4 military man who didn't see anything wrong with what you did.

100% if you got in a fight he'd be the 'who won?' parent.

John 'Soap' MacTavish:

Soap, your dad? Nah that's your best friend.

He's the dad who just can not remember any of your friends. 'Oh hi, nice to meet you!😁' 'Dad you've met them before. We've been friends for the last 5 years🤨' 'Oh. Really?'

When you were little he got you both matching outfits <3

He goes all out on every holiday no matter what. Decorates the house, buys all the food for the holiday, dresses up every time, and forces you to join him.

He's the dad that is SO easy to talk to about absolutely anything. Even if it's something you're not allowed to do; if you had a crush and wanted him to drive you to the movies if you sneak out and have no ride home. If you called him, he doesn't care whether it's 6pm or 4am he's picking you up and getting food on the way home.

Personally, I think he's a very chill dad if he knows/ finds out you're doing something he told you not to, he just settles with the fact that you felt comfortable enough to tell him anyway. Tries to prioritize your relationship with him rather than being the 'normal' strict parent.

Kyle 'Gaz' Garrick:

I imagine Dad!Gaz was a young single dad, who barely knew what he was doing.

He'd be the guy to call his mother/sister/grandmother 24/7 asking 'hey uh she rolled over in bed idfk if that means something!?!?' at like 3am

he'd be SO worried about you as a baby, something that fragile... he definitely had nightmares about dropping you or sum.

He 100% is the type to record EVERYTHING his little girl does, showing them to the team.

When she's a teenager, he definitely acts more like a best friend than a dad,

however, if you're having trouble at school with bullies or someone breaks your heart, it's scary how quick he can turn from bestie 🤪✌️ to Sergeant Kyle Gaz Garrick 👺💪.

Will support you on ANYTHING. That man is on your side, no doubt. Want to take ballet classes? he'll pay sweetie. Want to play a sport instead? He'll be there watching as much as he can. Failing classes? He's right next to you trying to help. Want to drop out? He'll help you look for a first job. Whatever it is, he's there with you<3

Captain John Price:

100% gave you some of his beer or bourbon to try when you were like 8 years old, 'aye you asked for some, didn't say it was gonna be good.'

Very sweet dad tho. Makes sure you have everything you need. Whether it be your favorite snacks while doing the shopping or making sure that one stain is out of your favorite sweater.

Sucks at helping you with your homework. 'What do you mean that's not how you do it anymore? How can they change math?'

Will accidentally make you cry trying to help understand math questions... you know what I'm talking about.

Learns all your best friends' names, is the best host for having a sleepover (all your friends always want to stay at your place). Has snacks for you all, always gets takeout for you and your friends, lets you stay up if y'all wanted to, 'your fault if you all feel like shit in the morning'. Makes waffles in the morning (or pancakes if ur lame 😒)

Protective over you with boys but not nearly as much as Ghost. He'd give you the least awkward sex talk than all the others. 'just remember I was your age once too- Haha yes a long time ago.'

Would definitely show you off to Laswell showing her all the 'facebook mom' photos he'd taken of you.

#task force 141 #simon riley #simon ghost riley #simon ghost riley x reader #simon riley x daughter!reader #john soap mactavish #john mactavish #soap mactavish #john mactavish x daughter!reader #soap mactavish x reader #kyle gaz garrick #kyle garrick #kyle garrick x daughter!reader #kyle garrick x reader #john price #captain john price #john price x daughter!reader #john price x reader #mw2 x reader #cod mw2 #call of duty #modern warfare 2

[averlym]

ASHJDSAHLKGJ WAIT I NEVER THOUGHT ABT LUMINE THAT WAY

but yes omg lumine paimon found family much beloved. (i actually can't ever bring myself to use the emergency food dialogues because paimon is just. too precious.)

also. yes i have a pair of jeans and ever since i read that pun i have been making the same pun NONSTOP my friends are sick of me now but that was pure comedic genius omg.

aiyaaa no don't say that about your writing >:(( self-deprecation is banned in this household tumblr i am sure it is amazing!!! and either way beauty is in the eye of the beholder. in this scenario i am the beholder and everything you make is amazing. tis facts.

ganqing though.... beloveds.... i am such a multishipper it is a serious problem but BELOVEDS... i have too many fic ideas and no time :c

WATT HADESTOWN AU??? IM INTERESTED ??? that would be SO cool like honestlyyyyy

that reminds me i was toying with the idea of a jeanlisa/beiguang hadestown au once upon a time but extracurriculars got in the way sob

I hope you have a wonderful day!!!!! *more hugs 'cause they make the world go 'round*

-the one and only teanon <3 (i'm on an old pc that is extremely scuffed and has no emojis sob)

as per usual, most rambles are in the tags,,, but also here are some doodles from the watt hadestown au it all fits in my head somehow so idk how clear these are

more info on the general story under the cut: but also, read the existing tags for this post first!

sign on the line 'cause you're running out of time

a/n: a scene from watt/hadestown (but i go off on too many tangents in brackets)

riley steps forward. 'she can't go. she signed a contract. she belongs to the team.'

kate stares between eva and riley, and back to eva. "is it true?"

they speak in unison. 

"she does." "i do."

(kate thinks, sometimes, about eva and 'i do's and their wedding song. this is not the 'i do' she wanted. this 'i do' she dreamed of only in her nightmares, on the track to here, this hell.)

"i can't leave the team," says eva, "i signed. 90k, my scholarship, for me to be on the team. climatology, kate! any way the wind blows," she sings bitterly.

"you can't leave- please not you- not you too-" comes kate's response, words spilling, falling from her lips, the same ones she said to chess before she left and never came back and now eva is going too- there isn't even a promise to skype, to keep in touch, to let her follow- "come home with me," she begs, "we can fix it-" 

(she knows they can't. riley is the richest girl in the area. the school can't afford to lose her. 90k scholarship, fancy gym- giles corey would bend over backwards for this girl.)

eva laughs sadly. "you don't know what it's like to be hungry." 

(i have worked so hard for so much less, eva thinks, remembers being unable to study for college because she was always working, how the stress got to her. thinks about how annleigh said kate would make her feel alive- but she can't quite remember how it felt. being a tiger has dulled her inside. riley is rich, and she knows how to use the money and power she has- a world where all the wrong kids keep getting all the nice things, she thinks wildy for a moment, watching kate stare at her brokenly, and she loves kate but sometimes she doesn't get it, lost in her music, lost in her grief.)

from the side, cairo watches. 

(the memory of seeing eva flashes through her head. up on top for spring, above and away from this basement, pouring drinks for everyone in the sunshine. kate had cried, "she will always fill our cups," a praise, a challenge, a reassurance to the girl next to her, staring at this bringer of life with skepticism. cairo had noticed, and looked directly at this girl, hungry and tired, and chimed in with "i will," watching her face grow hopeful. kate grinned, strummed her song and toasted, "and we will always raise them up!")

(growing up, despite appearances, kate never hated cairo. "i'll play my song and you and riley can kiss and make up," she told cairo as a child. cairo looked at this mortal girl, fingers red from holding guitar chords, and scoffed a disbelieving "sure.") there was a frenemy sort of passive-aggressiveness between kate and cairo, and out of all the gods, cairo was one of the rare few she trusted to help. like now.

(she thinks to annleigh turning to her, looking haunted, saying that cairo and riley were behind chess's death, and her immediate reaction being to defend cairo- "cairo never hated chess!")

kate turns her head to the side, and cairo, lost in the tumultuous thoughts of an immortal who has lost so many (her mind, right now, is thinking of farrah) looks up. "cai," kate pleads, and cairo steps forward, into the dull glow of riley's basement, so different from sunlight above. riley's voice hums, a calming technique cairo taught her long ago, and cairo can nearly hear the words with the tune. "please forgive me for doing what's best for you," echoes riley's voice in her head, sad and desperate.

"riley," she starts, and her friend looks to her. riley's hands are shaking, something cairo remembers from fourth grade. "make this easier" riley sings softly, voice trembling, and looks at her.

"eva means nothing to me!" says riley, defensive, mind whirling with 'cairo must think i have a crush on eva or something and now she hates me just like i got mad at farrah when cairo started spending so much time with her but farrah was bad for her they kept getting drunk and please forgive me for doing what's best for you i love you i love you i love you please she means nothing to me it's always been you-'

and maybe the two of them know each other too well, maybe they're too in sync, because cairo looks at riley and sees how much riley cares for her, and also thinks of farrah, and the suspicions she has, and her heart breaks because she knows how to fix this and she doesn't want to do it.

"i know," cairo says (reassuring, i care for you too, do this to please me) and then, "but she means everything to her."

riley is beset with phantoms that take cairo's voice and face and rip them off, because suddenly, even though she is looking at her best friend, all she can see are ghosts.

chess floats near her face, and riley can almost feel her nonexistent breath beside her cheek. "damned if you don't", she sings, hauntingly persuasive. let them go. the guilt claws at riley's chest. she can't breathe. 

chess then glares at farrah as her double braids flop onto riley's head. with fake cheer, she somersaults through the air and grins at riley upside down. "damned if you do!" mocking, taunting. you can't win.

clark appears, broods by her side. choruses with the other two before they fade- "whole damn nation's watching you."

even as the apparitions subside, drifting in front of her instead, their song continues around riley- "what you gonna do when the chips are down, now that the chips are down?"

"here's a little tip," farrah hums, sing-song, and a bottle of belladonna wine appears in her hand.

"word to the wise," sighs chess, and suddenly her hair is filled with poppy red, flowers blooming and covering the blood from an inconspicuous stab hidden beneath her jacket.

clark, instead, seems to be spiralling, twisting the ring around his finger until it warps into a bloody knife. "here's a little snippet of advice," he sings.

three fates, always singing in the back of her mind, in front of her vision. here, they mock her. clark places the knife he is twisting before riley, and it hovers there as the spirits disappear. "men are fools, men are frail, give them the rope and they'll hang themselves."

#hehe thank you for the pun usage! paimon supremacy!!!! so so beloved #ngl i saw the 'aiyaaa' and immediately loved you a little bit more idk why it's so comforting to have reminders of culture but it Is #too many ideas and no time and focus for them what a mood! jiayou bestie #ganqing ganqing ganqing i love them so so very much #when you take the romanisation of the pinyin of ganqing it also is the same as the pinyin of 感情 even though intonations are different and #iTS LITERALLY FEELS hhHHHHh #hugs!!! *sends you hugs back* hugs hugs hugs ily #i was going to explain the watt hadestown au but it's complicated so for now: it's a mix of hadestown and watt storylines #cairo= persephone riley=hades annleigh= hermes and knows events are repeating but can't change the whole thing #chess clark and farrah = the fates after they got killed and haunt about the living #kate= orpheus and eva= eurydice #cheer squad= hadestown; mattie and reese are part of the squad #tried to get a definite timeline and also details and i would write more about the relationships for each character except i can't structure #cairo riley and annleigh are old souls bc parallel of gods and they've got history #cairo and riley are best friends and in mutual pining but along the way cairo also disagrees more and more with what riley is doing #riley however believes she's doing this for the good of the team and thinks it's the way to get cairo to love her (spoiler: no) #riley is a wallflower parallels the chant between hades and persephone after they go to hadestown #annleigh is hermes: messenger and narrator. childhood friends with kate and a bit of an older sister to her. #she knows events repeat but the story always ends the same. happy ending but with people lost. kate saves eva at the end but annleigh #annleigh never manages to save clark and farrah and as fates they haunt her. (which has layers). some shows she denies this knowledge. #and the rest is in the post because #i ran out of tags like four times bsbsjskajdj #this content is very chaotic and reads like a letter with three lift the flaps and pasted papers all over #but if you read everything good job ily and i'm sorry sksjsk #... did you know there was a ten image limit i have found that out for the first time jshdjsks #long post #watt hadestown au #we are the tigers

[weightofdreamz]

In my book |s.f.k|

Just watched my younger cousin play volleyball and got this idea! And from when I used to be a setter in volleyball.

Warnings; some tears, not REALLY angsty in a sense, fluff!!! hurt/comfort

Taglist; @gretavanflowerpower @doodle417 @gretavanfleas

Not proofread💃

—

The score was 14-13 in the third set, y/n’s team was in their last game in the gold bracket. If they win this last set, they’ll win the whole tournament. Sammy was watching the game intently, watching you in awe. You were your teams setter, only setter, so you always felt an extra amount of pressure being responsible for most plays.

If you asked Sammy a few months ago what a “pancake” in volleyball was he would have told you it was a literal pancake. However, since the two of you became closer friends, he learned the rules and art of volleyball. You thought it was cute, how he would get angry when a ref would make a dumb call, or when someone got injured.

People assumed that you enjoyed being a setter but a in all honesty, you hated it. The stress that comes with being a setter has gotten to you, and every game you play just makes it worse. You blame yourself for every missed point, every spike into the net. You knew deep down that you couldn’t do anything to help it when one of your teammates shanks it, but your brain thought otherwise. But you’d never tell anybody that. You couldn’t tell anybody that volleyball seems more like a job than a fun hobby.

Your team ranked 3rd in the state which made you more stressed as this was the last set of the tournament. You and your team were a powerhouse, only losing 2 games this season. Not every game had good refs or courts but your team always managed to come out victorious. However, these two referees seemed to have it out for your team. Calling random doubles, players in the net, and lifts nonstop.

As you set your middle for a ‘b’ you hear a whistle blown, your middle had been called for being in the net when she was nowhere near touching it.

“What the fuck? She was nowhere that?!” you quietly whispered to your friend Riley, who’s your other pin hitter.

“Y/n, they’ve been making stupid calls this whole time, don’t let this one get to you,” she said patting your back as you got back into your base for this rotation. The score was now 14-14, with your opponents best server serving.

“Alright team nice and high! Call your seams and call your ball, let’s get it back!” You screamed at your team, watching the server serve at your libero, who shanked it way out of the court. You laughed yourself towards it, but weren’t able to pass it far enough into the court for someone to get it up. As you landed on the ground with a harsh thud your right wrist slammed into the ground.

As Sam watched this all go down he was on the edge of his seat, eyebrows furrowed as he watched you fly through the air, only breathing after you hit the ground.

“Y/N!” He loudly said, eyes filled with worry.

You got up as quickly as you could, brushing the throbbing pain in your wrist away as you forced a smile and turned to Sam.

“I’m fine Sam, don’t worry!” You but back your tears as you jogged back to your spot by the net as you looked at the score. 14-15. One more point and then it was all over. You couldn’t let that happen, not when you got this far, pushed yourself this much to get where you were.

This time, your DS was able to give you a great pass, giving you the ability to set up your outside hitter. As the other team got the spike up, you got ready to block their outside.

As you jumped to block with your middle you felt the ball connect with your hands and bounce off them. It landed on the other teams side, on the line. But when you looked at the line judge you saw that they called it out. And the referees believed them.

14-16. You just lost and it was your fault. As you looked to Sam you could tell he was yelling but you couldn’t hear him. All you could hear was your heartbeat. All you could think about was how it was your fault. Your team lost because of you. You walked to your team, face void of any emotion. Your teammates and coach clapped you on the back, telling you it wasn’t your fault, that you played hard, that the refs just wanted to be done. But you brushed them off, headed for you water bottle and sat down to take off your shoes and knee pads.

You hadn’t realized that Sam was right beside you until you got up and turned, coming face to, well neck, with him.

You hadn’t said a word to anyone, just a few mumbled yeahs, good games, and thank yous.

You looked up at Sammy, tears starting to well up in your eyes as you took in a ragged breath. He simply grabbed your bag, took your hand, and led you out of the sports complex.

Neither of you talked on the way home, instead listening to a playlist the two of you had made a while ago. You stared out the passenger side window, thinking about the game and everything you could have done better. It was until you both were in his house that he finally said something.

“It wasn’t your fault y/n. I know you think it was, but it wasn’t. I’m here for you, whatever you want me to be. Please tell me what your thinking. Need a punching bag? I’m right here, need someone to talk to, go ahead. I don’t want you blaming yourself for something that was out of your control. Those referees were shitheads and probably wouldn’t know what a double was even if you showed them.”

When he finally stopped talking, he listened for a response. First he heard a small sniffle and then felt you crashing into him, sobbing into his shoulder. As he guided you to the couch he rubbed your back, whispering words of comfort.

“It’s so fucking stupid. It was so obviously on the fucking line but no. The referees wanted to go home so they pull random calls out of their asses to end the game. I’m so fucking pissed. And so many of the points the other team got were my fault.” You sobbed into his chest.

“Y/n, you did the best you could, you helped your team be the best they could be. They wouldn’t have gotten as far as they did without you. And in my book, you guys were the true winners.” he gently said to you, kissing you on the top of your head as your sniffling started to get quieter.

“I love you Sammy, thank you.” you whispered into his chest, loosening your grip on his shirt and instead wrapping your arms around his neck, burying your face into his neck.

He lightly chuckled, turning his head to smile into the side of yours.

“I love you too darling. I always will.” he planted a kiss to the side of your head, moving you to lay on top of him, he resting on his chest while his arms wrap around your waist.

“Get some rest, my love. We can talk about this in the morning. And with that, you let out a contempt sigh, snuggled into his chest and closed your eyes, drifting to sleep while listening to his heartbeat and his calm breathing.

And that’s how Josh and Jake found the two of you when they got home from the bar. You and Sammy softly snoring on the couch, on on-top of the other. Josh grabbed one of the throw blankets from the blanket basket and covered the two of you with it. Planting a soft kiss to the top of your head while whispering, “I hope you feel better soon mamas,” and set off for his room, shutting off the lights in the rest of the house. That night with Sam, the first of many, was one of the best nights of your life.

fin~

Yay👏 If you don’t understand volleyball i’m sorry if any of this was confusing. I played when I was younger and my mental health had never been the same 👎 anyways, hope you enjoyed!! Love you my sunshines <3

#greta van fleet #gvf #josh gvf #jake gvf #danny gvf #sam gvf #sammy kiszka x reader #sammy kiszka #sam kiszka x reader

[cc-tinslebee]

Okay, so, about a month ago, my brain just conjured up probably the most random au possible: Legally Blonde Adam Banks/banksway au.

Believe me, it's as chaotic as it sounds, but lowkey, I'm kind of in love with it.

Adam never joins the Ducks because there aren't any Ducks to join. Bombay never had to do community service with District Five so there was no one to realise that Adam was on the wrong team all along. He continues to play for the Hawks and, eventually, the Eden Hall Warriors, never getting the chance to become the well-rounded individual we know him as because he's never known anything other than his rich privilege and the "win at all costs" mentality. He ends up going to college on a hockey scholarship and not straight to the NHL or the AHL (shocking, I know). While he's unsure of his major and where his life is heading, he finds solace in the fraternity he joins, which, by some sheer twist of fate, Jesse and Guy have also miraculously joined.

And his life is perfect for a while. He's the star player on yet another school's hockey team, all of his fraternity brothers adore him (though, it took a bit for Jesse to warm up to him), and his secret, not-really-official thing with his former teammate is going swimmingly. (Not to slander my boy, but I was picturing Larson for the role of Warner, purely because the alternative seems to be Rick Riley and that's kind of an unsettling image-- though, maybe that's the point?)

But then his secret boyfriend breaks up with him because, with his high aspirations in life, he needs to be "more serious." And dating Adam Banks, a guy in a stereotypical fraternity who only really knows hockey, in 2001 isn't exactly the white-picket-fence life he's looking for if he's going to be a politician.

And since this non-Duck Adam clearly doesn't have the braincells that canon Adam does, in his devastation, he decides it's a brilliant idea to prove that he is serious by applying to Harvard Law. His parents try to talk him out of it, since they want him to pursue his dreams of hockey, but being a lawyer is a respectable career so they can't exactly argue with him.

He gets accepted thanks to Jesse, Guy, and the rest of his fraternity helping him study for the LSAT and keeping him on track. He's trying his darndest when he gets to Harvard, but (despite his struggle not being as significant as Elle Woods'), not a lot of people take him seriously as an aspiring lawyer, considering him a meathead jock who only got in because of daddy's money.

And that's about the time he meets Linda, who he vaguely remembers from his time at Eden Hall. What he doesn't remember is her being so competitive, because she's deliberately beating him at every turn, just trying (and kind of succeeding) at making him look like a fool. To make matters worse, all of the sudden, she's engaged to his ex-boyfriend, who is very adamant about never telling anyone that he and Adam were more than friends (because, you know, early 2000s homophobia and such).

But things get a little brighter for Adam when he meets Charlie, an undergrad teacher's assistant who gives him all sorts of advice about surviving the school. He introduces him to Professor Bombay, who Charlie claims is the only reason he survived his first year and quickly becomes Adam's favourite teacher, and Charlie's childhood friend Connie, who aspires to be a state senator one day. Charlie's charismatic and even if he's not the most well-liked person at Harvard, Adam feels a weight lifted off his shoulders once he becomes friends with him and Connie. Things become a little easier.

Just before he and Charlie start getting really close, Adam meets Casey at a local diner on a day he's feeling particularly upset and alone, and the two start bonding almost immediately. (He bullshits his way into scaring an ex-husband of hers with legal repercussions he has no idea about and she basically adopts him in return.) It takes him an embarrassing amount of time to realise that it's not just a coincidence that Casey and Charlie share the same last name, which results in poor Adam feeling extremely embarrassed for not connecting the dots sooner while Charlie's having the time of his life teasing him for it. Eventually, when the dust of that settles, Charlie and Adam join forces to set Casey and Bombay up, their schemes borderline ridiculous at times, but they'rere not exactly failing.

And after realising he isn't the Warriors moron she thought he was for going on five years, Linda starts warming up to Adam, which is surprisingly nice? She figures out on her own that there used to be something between him and her fiancé, and is more understanding of Adam than she is mad. Linda actually spills to him the lengths Adam's ex had to go through to actually get into Harvard, aligning more with the rumours about Adam's acceptance being bought than having the aptitude for the law that Linda and Adam share. (This may be me saying Linda and Adam friendship rights, what of it-- /lh)

To make things all the better, Bombay chooses Adam, Linda, Connie, Charlie, and Adam's ex to be on his legal team for a murder case he's responsible for (and while he knows about Adam and Charlie's ploys to hook him up with Charlie's mom, they're his favourites, so he doesn't say anything).

And this is just so much better than anything he had before. After all the initial unpleasantness, Linda and Connie become some of the most genuine friends he's ever had. He misses Guy and Jesse, of course, and he'd never take them for granted, but back when he was with them at the fraternity, a part of him was still being as superficial as he had been in middle and high school. Being authentic for once in his life is liberating.

And Charlie's just about the most considerate person Adam's ever met. Adam doesn't even mind when Charlie teases him over his absurd and juvenile insults because he's just this source of light for Adam, supporting him and always pushing him to be the best version of himself. His ex hardly even exists when Charlie's around because his energy is just so contagious that Adam starts falling for him long before he even realises it. (And when Jesse and Guy come to visit, there's a moment where it all clicks and the four of them realise their history together, however brief. I strongly maintain that they'd be that Starkid meme: "Fucking Hawks? We hated you guys!" "We hated ourselves!" But it does make Adam realise how much better off he would've been if he had Charlie and his team when he was little instead of the Hawks, and it just further makes him understand that people like Larson and Rick Riley just aren't worth it.)

But there's also another revelation Adam goes through. Between helping Casey, his rigorous studies, and his position working with/for Bombay, something just clicks for Adam. He likes being able to help people, fighting for the good guys who may not have the resources they need to be properly defended. Practicing law calls to him in the same way hockey did; it's the feeling of knowing this is what he's meant to do. He still loves hockey, he always will, but it helps him finally grasp that there's a world for him outside of it; when hockey ends for him, there's something equally as rewarding that he can pursue, which was something he never thought he would have.

I haven't a single coherent thought about this au past that point except for these little inklings of an ending--

There's absolutely no SA scene like the movie had; Bombay's just Adam and Charlie's favourite teacher and those are his boys, so he's going to make sure they succeed as if his life depends on it.

With that said, Bombay believes in them both enough to let them finish the case because with their joined determination/stubbornness (and Adam's in with the defendant), Adam and Charlie are a force to be reckoned with and he knows it.

After a handful of comedic failures, they do end up succeeding at their attempts to set Casey and Bombay up, and they start living together sometime during the kids' Junior year :) (All I'm asking is for one (1) story with a Casey/Gordon endgame-- I just think they're neat--)

Linda dumps her fiancé (as she should) and goes on to live her best wlw life as a successful lawyer. (If I'm not mistaken, Linda's actress actually is a lawyer, which is a pretty cool fun fact!!)

Adam and Linda's ex gets the Warner ending because, man, screw that guy /lh (rip to Larson if this is him, I'm sure you'll get a nice endgame in some other universe, king)

Honorary mention for Connie, who was going long distance with Guy this entire time to everyone but Jesse's shock, and they get their Game Changers endgame of State Senator Connie Moreau and stay-at-home dad Guy Germaine with their seven -- sorry, three -- children :)

Adam's an absolute bundle of nerves after graduation, which definitely concerns Charlie. So, when he asks if he's okay, Adam starts nervously monologuing about their time together until he runs out of breath. He ends it by proposing to him, and Charlie smiles so surely at him when he says yes. They both become damn good public defenders and stay engaged until the point they can legally get married, but they're practically husbands long before that happens.

Also, if I did my math right (which I should’ve, it’s my entire basis for my Share Your Address series), the Ducks’ would have the same graduating class year as Elle Woods anyway (2004), which is pretty neat!

Thank you once again for listening to me ramble :)

#i just think they're neat that's all-- #full disclosure: i have not listened to/seen the musical yet but I have heard very good things about it #adam banks #charlie conway #gordon bombay #linda the mighty ducks #connie moreau #banksway #charlie x adam #the mighty ducks #casey x gordon

[kevindayscrown]

The one where Kevin Day falls in love with an ice hockey player.

Extra Content Part 1

Anything included in this head canon takes place the semester after the Foxes won the championship against the Ravens.

Head over to the directory to find the main parts.

Words in italics are spoken in Mandarin by the characters.

This is sort of extra content, it’s not a main part and no, I promise it won’t be as bad as Nora’s extra content is.

Eric liked to believe he was a pretty chill guy. There were very few things that could really affect him emotionally, he rarely got angry, and he raised his voice even less.

But somehow, Kevin Day had the ability to turn it all upside down.

He could remember the first time they’d met very vividly. Back then, he’d thought that Kevin was nothing more than a stuck-up celebrity, who apparently didn’t have time for those he considered inferior.

However, Eric found that he enjoyed riling Kevin up.

And secretly, he also enjoyed when Kevin himself wouldn’t go down without a fight.

When they started spending more time together, Eric couldn’t help but want to find out more about him. It was clear there was a lot more behind that cold façade.

From the yakuza story, the pretend dating, that kiss in the attic and eventually, the ‘break up’, Eric was not sure what to think anymore.

He knew he felt something for Kevin.

Correction.

He knew he very much wanted to take the ‘pretending’ out of the ‘dating’.

Despite everything, Kevin didn’t seem to have the same idea. Eric knew he’d been through a lot, but there was only so much he could tolerate. Perhaps when the two of them would eventually cool down, they’d be able to at least stay friends.

“Perhaps this was a waste of our time after all.”

That’s what he’d said before rushing out of the restroom, leaving the striker behind. He’d figured that both of them needed space and time to think things through.

Neil Josten hadn’t been very willing to give Eric his space, though.

The short red head followed Eric outside, saying nothing at first. Eventually, Eric stopped and turned to look at him.

“Is there a particular reason you followed me outside?”

Neil shrugged and then pulled out a pack of cigarettes from his pockets. He held it out to Eric first, who shook his head, before taking one from inside and lighting it up.

“Let me guess-,” he started and took a drag, letting the smoke out before he spoke again, “- Kevin is being an idiot again.”

Eric ran his fingers through the hair at the back of his neck, not sure how to respond to that. Kevin hadn’t been an idiot. He’d just been incredibly blind and stubborn.

“You’ll get used to it. He’s like that. It takes him some time,” Neil said and blew out more smoke.

Eric didn’t at all doubt that. It was clear Kevin’s mind worked in patterns that were hard to break. But was Eric willing to sacrifice his own sanity in trying to help Kevin?

“I figured. I’m not sure if I’m the one suitable to be there for him.”

Neil’s snort caused some smoke to blow out through his nose.

“I’ve never seen Kevin like that. Lying to Andrew and skipping Exy practice to go to the rink at night with you? Even going there willingly in the first place? Trust me, whatever it is you’re doing is working wonders already.”

Eric wasn’t so sure about that, since he had just left Kevin alone in a restroom after he had literally returned Kevin’s words against him, telling him he’d been a waste of time.

“What do I do?” Eric asked, almost desperately. He didn’t want to mess this up. He definitely did not want to become another reason why Kevin was cold and closed off.

“Give it some time. We’ll handle it. I’m sure you’ve seen what the foxes can do if they get too stubborn.”

Oh, Eric had. The Exy team of the Palmetto State Foxes had risen from the bottom of the ranks and won the championship, in an impressive way to say the least.

“Fine.” Eric wasn’t sure if he liked how this gave him hope, but he decided to hold onto it regardless. He was already too deep into this to be able to back out. He didn’t want to give up on Kevin, but he couldn’t be the only one doing most of the work.

“Where are you planning on going? Not the hotel I suppose,” Neil said and then threw the cigarette down, stepping on it.

The last thing Eric wanted was to spend a whole awkward night sharing the same bed with Kevin. In any other case, it might have been something to look forward to, seeing how he had imagined that scenario many times. But not like that. Not with the two of them barely exchanging any words.

“No. I’m leaving. Figured I should give us both some space. A lot has happened these past months. Maybe the winter break is all we need,” he said with a shrug and then shoved his hands in his pockets. “I’ll head back to my parents’ place. Was already planning on it. I’ll just show up earlier.”

Eric wanted to give Kevin time and space, wanted to believe Neil. He generally wasn’t the pessimistic kind of person so it was easy for him to cling on the hope that Kevin and him could have something more. Something real.

Going home, he thought, would help him forget and clear his head for a couple of weeks.

Except, it didn’t.

His childhood best friend, Riley Pierce, wasn’t exactly keen on letting Eric forget about Kevin. Mostly because Riley had been obsessed with Kevin growing up. They weren’t a sports person, but they were an Exy fanatic.

And there was no chance they would let Eric forget that he’d started dating national champion Kevin Day without telling them anything.

Two days prior to leaving his home town in Atlanta for the start of the new semester, Riley still wouldn’t drop the subject.

“I can’t believe you went on dates with him. What is he like? I mean, I know you hate him, but really, you went on dates with Kevin Day.”

They were gliding across the ice of their neighborhood rink, a regular hang out spot for the two of them. Riley’s smaller frame and hate for physical violence led them down the path of figure skating instead of playing ice hockey with Eric.

“It was fine,” Eric mumbled, though his mind went straight to the nights spend in the attic. “He is-,” he stopped, knowing he couldn’t start talking about Kevin without Riley figuring out the truth. He had tried to avoid it throughout the holidays, but now it was just the two of them and Eric had no idea how to change the subject.

“Wait-,”

Too late.

Riley halted and made Eric do the same, watching him and studying him the way no one else could. Growing up next to each other was the cause for that.

“You actually like him. It wasn’t just fake dating for you, was it?”

Eric sighed and eventually gave in, nodding slowly. “He is... not used to this. We had a fall out and I figured out that giving him some time might help clear things out.”

Riley’s expression softened. They smiled and then crushed Eric in a hug that almost had them both tripping over the ice.

“If anyone can figure it out, it’s you. Even if sometimes you are a bit thick in the head. I’m telling you; ice hockey isn’t good for you.”

That had Eric laughing, lifting his spirits a bit. Riley pulled back and patted his shoulder.

“Look, Kevin Day or not, at the end of the day, you should do what makes you happy. If you want to be with him and think it’s going to work out, I know you can do it. If not then, well, you have my shoulder to cry on. Or you can tell Kevin I’m very much available.”

They grinned and Eric rolled his eyes but smiled fondly.

“Thanks, Riley.”

Eric knew he had his family, his team and his best friend whom he could count on. He couldn’t help, however, to worry about Kevin and how he spent the winter break. Sure, he had his team, he had people surrounding him, but was he still punishing himself?

Riley eventually suggested they go back for dinner at Eric’s place. They gathered their stuff after they got off the rink and then started heading back.

“Mom?” Eric called as they walked inside the house.

“Eric?” His mother asked as she looked at them from the living room, immediately walking over to them to welcome them. “You are back! Good. Someone very special is here to see you.”

The smile on her face had something mischievous about it that instantly got Eric’s attention.

Eric heard Riley squeal even before he spotted Kevin Day, sitting on the couch, watching him with bright emerald eyes.

#kevin day #kevin day x oc #OC: Jiang Eric #aftg #aftg headcanon #aftg oc #aftg au #all for the game #the foxhole court #the raven king #the kings men #andreil #andrew minyard #neil josten #Palmetto State Foxes #nicky hemmick #aaron minyard #matt boyd #dan wilds #renee walker #allison reynolds #exy

[emachinescat]

OH MY GOSH. Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh OH. MY. GOSH.

Okay, now that I've gotten that out of my system, here are my thoughts about Diamond + Quake + Carbon + Comms + Tower, in no particular order (spoilers ahead):

THE TRUTH IS OUT. I honestly went into this episode thinking that we were going to be faked out again, but they actually delivered! I loved everything about the reveal, though I think it was super irresponsible of Desi to throw out her comms because she didn't like what she heard, especially after Matty expressly told her not to.

I am honestly shocked that they gave Leanna's storyline closure. I never cared for her as a character myself, but I always loved how much Bozer cared about her. Justin's acting in this episode was phenomenal. It broke my heart. Great continuity, and amazing angst!

Okay, so you know at the beginning when Mac is talking about pressure? Yeeeaaahh, he's not just talking about diamonds. I'm not sure how the writers intended us to read that scene, but I did not see happy, entergetic man preparing to propose. I saw a man barely holding it together, on the verge of cracking, laughing and smiling and acting so exuberant in an effort to stave off everything bad he is feeling. There was a sense of wrongness about his energy in the beginning, like he's breaking apart at the seams. It was funny and cute, don't get me wrong, but... It was also chilling.

Look at Bozer putting Riley's feelings first. And the part of the conversation we hear during the big reveal is pretty much everything I could have dreamed. I still can't believe that MAC KNOWS.

The WHUMP in this episode!!! Hit by a car, out of breath after being forced to run for miles, the emotional manipulation and stress. And of course, Murdoc beating him to a pulp, all that manhandling and punching and shoving... Excellent whump.

I am, however, sorely disappointed in the lack of aftercare/consequences. At the VERY LEAST, Mac should have been moving stiffly, arms cradling his midsection, hunched over in pain. Come on, writers. People don't get the crap beat out of them and then walk away like it's nothing.

Again, though, the whump itself was excellent.

I also love the fact that this whole thing was a plot to get and execute Mac so that Andrews could take over Codex. I love a good revenge plot, and the fact that they were broadcasting the killing to Codex leaders gave me all the whumperflies.

Regarding the plot in and of itself, it doesn't make a ton of sense. I guess Murdoc chose to beat Mac to draw out the death and force him to suffer more, so that the revenge would be sweeter?? But I don't believe Murdoc could have actually killed him. He can't lose his rival, his muse, his favorite toy (an idea I explore in one of my fics, actually). I also don't really get why he would team up with Andrews. Well, my best guess is that he just wanted to play with Mac and Phoenix, and Andrews provided that opportunity.

Speaking of Murdoc, he was ON POINT. I adored every minute of his time on screen. And you all heard it too - he actually declared his love for Mac with the "better to have loved and murdered" line!! That just further proves his creepy, possessive obsession with Mac (another thing I explored in my fic)! So yes, Murdoc was the perfect villain. The only complaint is that I think he would have used Jack's death against them.

As far as Andrews goes, I do think he was criminally underused. He was such a great villain with so much potential, but there was almost no reason for him to be there with the way they used him. And I was very disappointed that his chain never ended up around Mac's neck.

Desi was... Interesting this episode. I'm not going any deeper into Mac's intended proposal, because they made it very clear that he is rushing things because of the losses (another mention of Jack, by the way!) and because of how close he is to caving under the pressure. But yeah, Desi was sometimes frustrating and difficult, but she was resigned and understanding at the end?? I'm not sure how to read her anymore.

I adored Russ in this episode. I love him anyway, but his energy, angst, angry breakdown... They were incredible.

The earthquake plot was unique too! I do wish we'd get a bit more MacGyvering in this season, though.

As a whole, everyone's acting was on a whole new level in this one! I was blown away by each and every performance!

Finally, THAT CLIFFHANGER. I am DYING!!!! So cruel. I really, really hope they do it justice in the next episode, which I cannot wait for!!

Overall, this has by far been my favorite episode this season! So, so, so good, despite my few nitpicks. I actually cannot get over just how much I enjoyed it - can't wait to watch it again tomorrow! :)

#macgyver 2016 #macgyver #season 5 episode 10 #macriley #episode review #spoilers #angus macgyver #riley davis #wilt bozer #matty webber #russ taylor #leanna #desi nguyen #murdoc #andrews #i love it so much #my thoughts #Diamond + Quake + Carbon + Comms + Tower

[elliewritessometimes]

hello. have you seen this post by @notsomightymightytiger?? that’s my friend!!! and this is completely and utterly inspired by that and completely and utterly written for her. love you stabby friend <3

also known as: the tigers go to disneyland, kateva like to kiss, chess, reese and mattie have an understated bromance and cheerwives can actually be fluffy for once

tw: swearing, theme park kind of things??? aka rollercoasters and fireworks and all that. as always, let me know if i’ve missed anything

(sidenote idk if you can tell but i have never in my life been to disneyland don’t come for me if i wrote it all wrong i tried my best)

---

"We're going to Disneyland."

There was silence in the gym for a solid thirty seconds before all hell broke loose.

"WhAT???"

"Wait, really?!?"

"Oh my God, Riley, you're the best, oh my gOd!"

"Why the fuck did you think that taking us to fucking Disneyland was a good idea??" Kate looked less than pleased at the proposition, a stark contrast to the delighted faces of Reese and Mattie.

Riley smiled brightly. "Team bonding!!"

Kate rolled her eyes. "Right. Of course." Their voice rose in pitch, sarcasm delicately lacing their words. "For the best of the team-"

Chess cut them off, not so subtly stamping on her foot. "Katherine, please."

Farrah had been wobbling on her tiptoes, peering over Annleigh's shoulder. She gave a long-suffering groan. "Annleigh, Clark's not a Tiger, he can't come."

"But-"

"No. It's unfair."

Annleigh ignored her sister and switched her attention to Riley, making her best puppy eyes at the captain. Riley only widened her smile. It probably hurt her face a little bit. "You know what? Fine. Clark can come. It's gonna be fun, right?!"

Annleigh giggled at the answer, sticking her tongue out at a fuming Farrah. Kate was in a similar predicament, being held back by a smirking Chess with an arm around their shoulder. They pulled out their phone as well, already dialling a number, “If Annleigh’s boyfriend gets to come, then my girlfriend should be allowed as well. Otherwise that’s nepotism.”

“Fine.” Riley was steadily regretting her decision to hold a cheer trip. On her left, Cairo squeezed her hand, pressing a kiss to her shoulder. Kate gagged in their direction. “You better not, Kate, or I’m banning your girlfriend from Disneyland.”

“Fuck you.”

“Wait,” Reese spoke up, “If Kate and Annleigh can have Eva and Clark, and Cairo and Riley have each other, can I bring my boyfriend?”

“No more significant others!” Riley clapped her hands, ignoring Reese’s pout. “If you can’t get Eva and Clark here in the next eight minutes, we will be leaving them behind! I paid so much money for these tickets and we will not be late.”

The team headed towards the door, being greeted by Eva and Clark already standing beside Cairo’s minivan. They split the rides evenly between the van and Chess’ car (Kate was more than pissed to find that their best friend had been in on the plan all along). 

At one point, Mattie took Reese’s hand. “Hey, even if you can’t bring your boyfriend, you’ve got me, right? Ultimate bromance and all that?”

Reese grinned and squeezed the freshman’s hand. “Hell yeah.”

-

“I want that pin.”

“No, you don’t.” Reese hugged the Belle pin closer. 

Chess held out a hand. “Yeah, but I do though.”

Reese shook her head.

“Look, I’ll give you my Tinkerbell diamond one.” They held out the rare pin in their other hand.

“No! Belle is my favourite!”

“She’s my favourite as well though!”

Cairo sighed. “We’ve been here literally ten minutes.”

Reese linked arms with Mattie, turning on her heel to walk off, “I’m going now and you’re not getting my Belle pin!!!!”

“HEY!” Chess chased after the two, trying so hard to keep up their grumpy demeanour and failing when a smile crept onto their face.

Turning to an anxious-looking Riley, Cairo sighed again. By now, she’d sighed more than she’d spoken today. “Chess does know that they could just... buy their own Belle pin if they really wanted, right???”

“It’s the fun of it, Cai.” Riley looked around, craning her neck. “Where on Earth have the other five members of our team gone?”

“Holy shit.” At this rate, Cairo must have been running out of oxygen from the intense sighing. “It has been. Ten. Minutes.”

-

Farrah wouldn't call herself a Disneyland regular, but she's been a few times before. She remembered a time before her mother had left, when she was still just a little kid, coming to the park for the first time. It had been the kind of magical that only a child can experience, filled with glitter and laughter and something that might have been called family. Her mother bought bubblegum flavoured cotton candy, handing the stick to a seven-year-old Farrah with a smile and a wink. They agreed that it was the first thing that you had to do when going to Disneyland - buy cotton candy. Every time since, Farrah bought the same bubblegum pink sugar from the same tacky stand and ate it with the same wonder as she did the very first time.

Now, Farrah had a new family. In, perhaps, more ways than one. Here, away from home, she's still with her family, maybe a slightly dysfunctional one made up of teenage cheerleaders (and Clark), but still, they are her family in one way or another.

Annleigh returned as Farrah was mulling over all this, a stick of worryingly neon pink cotton candy in her hand. "Figured you'd want to start the day off with your usual sugar rush."

Farrah took the treat with a smile, wondering if Annleigh is only so glad to buy such unhealthy food because at least it's not alcohol. "Thanks."

"Come on, ladies! We've got a whole park to explore!" Clark had apparently already visited a store, a pair of Mickey ears stretched over his head. Farrah rolled her eyes, but followed her sister and brother-in-law (nearly) further down the street because, after all, they are her family.

-

“I can’t believe you’ve never been to fucking Disneyland before,” Eva looked mildly horrified, “Has Chess never taken you?”

“I didn’t really want to go.”

Eva narrowed her eyes. “Why the fuck-”

“Reasons.” Kate’s voice was sharp and Eva backed off, only kissing the top of their head. Kate squeezed her hand in response. “Anyway, come on, show me everything. Mountain rides challenge, right?”

“Ugh, Katie, the queues with be forever...”

“Lucky for you, I’ll be there to while away the time with you.” She winked, laughing when Eva blushed. “Let’s go.”

-

Of all the things to happen at Disneyland, Reese was not expecting to get sneak attacked by a literal cuddly pig. She yelped, reaching a hand to smack it away, nearing the point of ‘this might as well happen’, when a small head poked out from behind the toy. Mattie grinned, “Boo!”

“Jesus Christ, you scared the life out of me.”

The younger girl giggled brightly. “Look what I got!”

“...Is that the pig from Moana?”

“Obviously.” Mattie rolled her eyes. “You should know by now that Moana is the best Disney movie of all time.”

Reese rummaged in her backpack for a second before pulling out yet another pin. “Look! Moana pin. Girl, I would give it to you, but me and Chess are tryna see who can get the most pins by the end of the day. Speaking of, was Chess in the store?”

“Yeah, actually.” She hesitated. “Dude, I hate to tell you this, but they had a Belle pin.”

“Shit.”

-

Perhaps queuing had been a mistake. It had probably been hours. Kate would have known more accurately if they’d worn a watch like Chess always told them to. She was stubborn though, and hadn’t. “Aves...” 

“Yeah?”

“How long have we been waiting?”

“Twenty-five minutes.”

“Oh.” They craned their neck to see over the heads in front of them, realising that they were only a few people from the front. “Oh.”

Eva laughed and took her partner’s hand again, “Told you the queues were long.”

However, in only a matter of minutes, they were seated in an uncomfortable car, the seatbelts just a little too tight to be comfortable and a little too loose to feel actually safe. To say Kate was uncomfortable would be an understatement. She was also maybe a tiny bit scared. 

Eva squinted at them. “You look like you’re gonna throw up.”

“I’m fine.” 

And so the ride began.

Around halfway through, they began the steady climb to the highest peak. Kate turned to Eva, yelling over the shouts of other passengers. “Hey, babe? Remember when I said I didn’t come here with Chess because of reasons? Now might be a good time to tell you that those reasons are that I’m scared of heights.” 

“You fucking idiot.” Eva turned carefully to them, holding their hands tighter, worry and amusement shining in her eyes. The car reached the peak of the ride. “Look at me and don’t fucking think about looking down. It’s okay.” She cupped her cheek. They fell suddenly and Kate's heart jumped into her throat. Eva laughed a little at their surprise. “You know what they say, babe, you gotta confront your fears straight on.”

“I can’t do anything straightly.”

And that was how they found themselves kissing on a rollercoaster, hair slightly in their faces, just as the camera shutter went off. 

-

The team somehow reconvened for lunch, stopping on a bench somewhere as Clark unpacked a multitude of sandwiches and juice boxes. Of course, only Clark, Annleigh and Riley ended up eating the home-brought food, everyone else opting to buy their own trashy, mostly-sugar lunch. 

“How the fuck did you know to bring all this if we only organised the trip this morning?” Kate sounded suspicious, eyeing Clark like he was the imposter. 

Clark looked mildly sheepish. “Oh... We all knew already.”

“WHAT?”

“Yeah, sorry Kitkat.” Chess stifled a snort of laughter. “We organised this weeks ago. We had a group chat and everything.”

Kate spluttered for a second. “Alright, traitors, who else was left out of this?”

Mattie, Farrah and Reese all raised a hand. 

“This makes no sense. Cairo, I trust you to tell the truth, why the fuck didn’t you tell us?!”

Cairo smirked. “We didn’t tell Mattie and Farrah because they’re children-”

“Rude!” Mattie smacked Cairo on the arm. “I am possibly more responsible than half of the rest of you.”

Riley cut in. “Don’t be silly, Cai. We didn’t tell Reese, Mattie or Farrah because they like Disney the most and we wanted it to be a surprise treat for them.”

The rest of the group made noises of appreciation or fondness. Kate, however, was less than pleased, “What about me?!”

“Oh, we just wanted to see your face when we announced it.” Cairo didn't hold back.

“Fuck you all.” But they were holding back a smile, already moving on to the next thing. “Hey, Farrah, you okay? Why aren’t you eating?”

The sophomore groaned. “I feel sick.”

Annleigh hugged her sister to her side, rubbing her back gently. ‘It’s because you ate all that cotton candy earlier.”

“It was so good, though.” Farrah frowned, regretting her past-self and her need for sugar. 

Clark reached into his backpack, pulling out a pair of Minnie ears, before plonking them awkwardly on Farrah’s head. He grinned. “That’ll make you feel better!”

“Dude, I don’t know, but thanks for the effort.” She fought a smile, reaching up to arrange the ears around her plaits. 

-

Riley had been anxious about the trip ever since it had been first suggested. She’d pored over the plans for hours on end, triple checking each detail with Cairo and Chess. Now that they were here, it was all going well enough. Sure, maybe they had gotten lost a couple of times, and sure, maybe they hadn’t stayed as much of a team as she’d planned, but yeah, it was going fine. Everyone else was having fun. 

“Hey, Rye, you doing okay?”

She nodded with a smile, clutching Cairo’s hand. “Yup! All good!”

Cairo did not look convinced. “Look, you've been stressing about everyone else all day, how about we leave them be and go visit some princesses, huh?”

“Cai... Cai, that would be honestly amazing.” Hesitating, she watched the retreating backs of the rest of the team. “You’re sure they’ll be okay?”

“They’ll be fine, I promise. Besides, they’ve got Clark and Chess and Eva in case anything goes wrong.” The taller girl didn’t hesitate from naming who she perceived as the ‘responsible ones’. 

“Okay.” Riley opened her mouth to suggest a destination, when they were approached by the one and only Peter Pan. 

“Hey!”

“OhmygodCai.” She clung to her girlfriend’s arm. “It’s Peter Pan.”

Cairo snorted, nudging Riley to spark her reply. She watched as the two had what was possibly the purest and most wholesome conversation she had ever heard, sneakily taking photos that she would treasure because of Riley’s true delight. Riley skipped towards her after a couple of minutes, grinning properly from ear to ear. “That was so cool!”

“Amazing, Rye. Who shall we visit next?”

“Oh my God, we have to see Tangled!”

“....Rapunzel.”

Riley paused from where she was dragging Cairo into another set of rooms. “What?”

Cairo laughed, “She’s not called Tangled, babe, her name’s Rapunzel.” 

“Oh. Yeah, right, of course, forgot.”

The other girl only laughed harder. “You're so stupid, Jesus Christ, I love you.”

Riley blushed. “Love you too.”

-

“So you did the mountain rides challenge.”

“Yes. Obviously.”

“And somehow, just magically, you two found yourselves making out in every single ride photo.” Chess crossed their arms, grinning at the couple in front of them.

“I- It was noT making out!!” Kate spluttered a reply, hiding her face in Eva’s shoulder. Chess only laughed harder.

Eva hummed as if she was making a difficult decision. “I don’t know, babe, you got pretty into it at one point.”

The senior cackled, high-fiving Eva over Kate's head. Kate continued to hide in their girlfriend's shoulder, only lifting a middle finger in Chess’ direction as a reply. Chess took the offending finger in their hand, pulling Kate up so she could walk between the other two. “Damn, Kitkat.”

“I’m not ever replying to that name again. I have been too attacked to allow it.”

Eva kissed the top of their head, “You came here to have a good time and you’re just feeling so attacked right now.”

“Exactly!” Kate nudged their head up into Eva’s chin, “This is why I’m dating you, meme girl.”

“Ew, gross.” Chess tugged Kate, who tugged Eva, who finally got them walking again. “Come on, lovebirds, it’s firework time.”

-

By the time the fireworks began, they’d been at the park for hours. Farrah still had her Minnie ears on, ones which Clark occasionally tried to steal due to his own ears being lost on one ride or another. Annleigh would only bat his hand away, laughing when he pressed kisses to her palm. 

Kate kissed Eva again when the first firework exploded above them, being caught by yet another camera, this time in the hands of Riley. The photo found its way onto the Tigers group chat by morning, greeted by a pouting Kate begging them to take it down against the protests of the rest of the team (“But you’re just so cute!”). Somehow, she didn’t complain when it even later worked its way onto Eva's Instagram feed. 

Chess and Reese jumped at the first fireworks, too absorbed in counting pins to pay attention to the rest of the world. Mattie wormed her way between them, sneakily stealing both Reese’s Moana pin and Chess’ newly-bought Belle pin. They were too distracted by the light show to notice and Mattie celebrated her little victory by also stealing some of the cotton candy that Farrah had bought herself again, despite her earlier regrets. She supposed some people never learnt.

Cairo stood quietly at the back of the group, showing a still-bouncing Riley the pictures taken with the various characters they’d encountered. Riley kissed her for the final firework, a silent ‘thank you’ for today. 

With the lights of Disneyland glimmering maybe slightly tackily behind the group, Riley took one last picture. It was them, the team, the Tigers, silhouetted in the lights but, if you zoomed in and maybe turned the brightness up a bit, you could still see them smiling. That made its way onto the group chat as well and maybe it still hangs in more than one of their rooms. It was certainly a day that qualified for the scrapbooks.

#KIERA IT'S HERE #sorry it took longer than expected these last few days have been crazy #in other news my cousin is living with us for a while #with that in mind i can't promise a whole lot of content in the next week or so #we never know tho #its not like I was particularly persistent in the first place #anYWAY #proper tag time #we are the tigers #swearing tw #kateva #cheerwives #I refuse to tag characters im sorry im lazy #they're so cute and so at disneyland #its great #I really hope you like it I tried by best #I love yous tabby friends #kiera (yay for gay) #caps tw (for the tags) #I think that's all

[shirebarbie]

Okay not to be okay (Maxwell Beaumont x Riley)

Author’s note: a random little fanfic about my favorite LI from the Royal Romance series on choices. please be kind :’)

Summary: hurt & comfort, Maxwell’s reaction to his father’s plan to take the crown princess away and Riley’s attempts to make him feel better.

After the horrible and shocking meeting, everyone from the friend group slowly started leaving the room, their faces confused and spirits low. The ones who voted in favor of the princess being taken away left quickly, probably in order to avoid more conflict with the ones who opposed the idea. Hana was one of the last people to walk through the door as she cast a sad glance in the direction of the princess Annabelle. Duchess Riley followed everyone out with her dark eyes, but she couldn't oversee the fact that her husband barely moved at all. Maxwell stood up from his chair for a moment, took a few steps, and then sat down heavily again with hanging shoulders on another chair. Olivia was sitting in that one, Riley thought, the only representative of the Great Houses that voted against Barthelemy's horrendous scheme.

Annabelle was sound asleep in her pram, her little face angelic and perfectly calm – she was lucky to be unaware of the recent events and their possible effects on both her childhood and her future. Riley cast a sad but loving look on her daughter as she slowly turned to face Maxwell who was staring blankly ahead with his usually smiling lips in a straight line, and his ocean eyes no longer friendly and mischievous. Riley crouched down so she could meet his face and she raised a hand to gently place on her lover’s shoulder.

“Max, are you alright?” she inquired carefully, although the answer was clearly written on his face. However, in his typical fashion, he quickly put on a braver façade and attempted something similar to a smile.

“Let’s not talk about me right now, we have things to handle and we need to come up with a strategy to get our baby out of this horrible- “

“Darling.” Maxwell’s ramblings were quickly cut off by his wife who knew him well enough to know he would put everyone else’s needs before his own, even when his little family was directly threatened by his own father. That was just the way he was, but Riley didn’t think that was the time to brush off something so serious.

“It’s completely okay to feel betrayed, hurt, or anything else you may be feeling now. He’s your dad, Maxwell, nobody could ever judge you for being upset with this situation.”

Before she even completed what she was saying, Riley saw Maxwell’s eyes fill with tears and his ruse was no longer. He was properly devastated, and he had no clue what to say at all. He knew Riley and Annabelle would support him and love him through everything, as they proved day after day, but he felt like he was failing them and like he could do nothing right, even though he knew nothing about his father’s malicious scheme beforehand. Through his flurry of thoughts Maxwell felt his wife’s warm hand squeeze his own, the wedding band secure on her ring finger, and her other hand reached up to stroke his cheek.

As she was looking at Maxwell, Riley’s heart broke just a little bit. She brushed away a stray tear from his right cheek while he was still staring into space, breathing becoming heavier.

“My darling angel,” she began, her soft voice dripping with love and worry, and she knew he would feel it too, “none of this is your fault to any extent. You have never done anything to endanger our family – quite the contrary – and I could never put any blame on you. For any of this,” she gestured vaguely and shook her head. “I love you and Annabelle loves you and we know you love us, which you continue to prove every single day. For goodness’ sake, you literally saved our lives once already, darling. I think that’s all the proof we could ever need about your feelings and intentions towards us.” Riley shuddered at the thought of that overwhelming night when their daughter came into the world, knowing that it wasn’t something any of them would get over anytime soon.

That one tear on Maxwell’s cheek was soon followed by many more, and quiet sobs started to ripple through his body. Riley reacted immediately and pulled him into herself, allowing one of her hands to slide into his soft hair. It was always incredibly hard to see him crying, because he was usually the happy one who saw the good in everything, but even people like that have their breaking points. Considering the overall situation, it was more than understandable that Maxwell happened to face his breaking point at that moment. Initially, when Riley hugged him close he left his arms down, but hesitantly he encircled his wife’s shoulders and waist.

“I’m a-“ he started, but the duchess knew in which direction his thoughts were flowing. “If you dare to say that you’re a royal screw-up, I’m banishing music on our next ball completely!” This made Maxwell stop talking immediately, and Riley thought she heard a faint chuckle cut through the quiet sobs and sniffs. “Good,” she smiled, but the man in her arms still didn’t seem to be doing better. With every little sob of his, her soul began to hurt a little more. Unsure of what to say next to alleviate some of the pain, the duchess settled on a gentle chorus of “it’s alright” and “we’ll be fine”, even though she herself wasn’t sure if she truly believed those words.

Maxwell was simultaneously feeling safe and scared, and after everything he had gone through with his father (and very much his absence, too) he certainly deserved to look after himself a bit, and focus on arranging his own feelings and thoughts first. Riley firmly believed that, but she knew that, no matter how tough the situation was, Maxwell would always put her and Annabelle first. She was extremely grateful for that the whole time, and she made her appreciation clear. However, it was high time for her to give better than her best for her husband now, in spite of the fear that was bubbling up in her heart.

“My sweet, sweet boy,” Riley eventually whispered as she rubbed Maxwell’s back, “if anyone in the world is trying their best for their loved ones, it is you, Max. Our friends would agree too, I’m sure of that. But it’s perfectly normal to take it easy every now and then, and look after yourself, baby. You need it.” Maxwell’s crying died down at least a little by that point, and he pulled away from his wife’s arms just a bit (he still adored her hugs and affection, and was always ready to soak all of it up, any given chance), so he finally attempted looking her in the eyes. The warmth and care that were so blatantly obvious on her lovely features almost made his heart stop for a moment. Even when he was a crying mess, she still looked at him as if he was the most perfect and precious human being in the whole universe. And he was exactly that to her.

Maxwell let out a slow, shaky breath, and he looked away again “I can’t… believe he would do something like that. To his son’s own family.”

“I know, my love, I know.” Riley bit her lip worriedly and rubbed her hands up and down Maxwell’s arms. “And I can’t even imagine how you must be feeling right now. But I do think you’re incredibly brave, unbelievably strong, smart, and loving, and I don’t have a sliver of doubt in my mind that we will manage to figure something out together.”

“You think so?” Her husband wondered out loud, his eyes regaining a slightly more hopeful and joyful look, which Riley grew to love very quickly into their friendship. He always saw so much good, and sometimes she couldn’t even fathom how and where. But that was just Maxwell.

“I know we will, Max. Just look at everything we have managed to accomplish so far, sunshine! What’s another epic fight for our amazing team, huh?” The duchess tried to offer her brightest smile, her hands still on her lover. “It has been scientifically proven that we can do anything.”

Finally, Maxwell cracked a little smile and squeezed his wife’s hands. “We are the world’s greatest superhero team,” he croaked out with a little sniff, and Riley almost melted right then and there. In her eyes, his smile was unmatched, and she wanted to be the reason behind it as much as she could. She was not sure whether she was right about any of the things she said, whether everything will really go the right way or completely awfully, and she didn’t know whether Maxwell believed her encouragements either, but at that moment what mattered was the fact that he seemed to be feeling better, at least momentarily, and that was a small victory she was willing to take.

“Maybe we should take our little sleeping princess to her royal bed,” Maxwell said in a voice that was barely above a whisper, nodding his head in the direction of his beloved daughter.

“Good thinking,” Riley nodded and finally got up from her uncomfortable position on the floor, and she extended a hand towards Maxwell. The second they were both standing up, he pulled her into the tightest hug possible and inhaled her comforting scent. “I love you,” Maxwell exhaled, some of the tension leaving his body, “and I love our little ray of sunshine too.” In return, Riley pressed a loving kiss on his lips which communicated all the love she had for him without having to say a word. They just knew.

Maxwell picked up Annabelle from her pram gently, but securely, and held her little sleeping form close to his body as the family of three exited the meeting room. More than once, as they walked to their private quarters, Riley noticed an unreadable expression on her husband’s face, but every time he glanced at their baby or she fidgeted a little, he seemed to brighten up too. It was normal – one can’t let go so quickly of something so painful and confusing. Maxwell needed time, hell, they both needed time, patience and strength to tackle the newest threat in the kingdom. Riley’s brow furrowed when she started putting the pieces together: after a mysterious coma that lasted for almost two decades, Barthelemy was suddenly perfectly well and had a very elaborate plan put together and already set in motion. Something didn’t seem completely right, but that was a conversation for another day – she couldn’t bear the thought of possibly causing Maxwell more pain and sadness than what he already had to put up with.

While Maxwell put Annabelle to bed, Riley went to change into something less formal and get something from the kitchen. In one of the halls she ran into her friend Drake, who seemed to be in an equally bad mood (to be fair, he often was, but not with that intensity). He looked at her with so much sadness that she felt like someone knocked air out of her lungs when their eyes met. When he spoke up, it was barely audible, as if he was scared of talking about the imminent threat too loudly – maybe it would make everything go down sooner.

“I’m really sorry you’re going through this,” he said. “Both you and Maxwell are really good people, and it’s high time you both got some rest and just, you know, enjoy life.” Drake chuckled humorlessly.

“Oh well, it seems like I am destined for drama. Me, and everyone around me too,” Riley shrugged, trying to stretch her lips out into a smile, at least a small one. “For now, Maxwell seems to be taking it much worse, which makes a lot of sense.”

Drake almost shivered at the mere thought of what his friend must be feeling at the time. “Hell, imagine getting such a horrible surprise from your own, supposedly dead, father.”

Riley just looked down in silence: it was extremely hard to find any appropriate words. Sensing the shift in her mood, Drake just awkwardly squeezed her shoulder as he started to leave.

“I really hope you guys get through this, and we will all help as much as we can. I know I will,” he said in a quiet voice, laden with emotion. Riley offered him a thankful smile and a curt nod before going to her daughter’s nursery. To her surprise, Maxwell was dozing off in the armchair next to Annabelle’s crib. He usually wasn’t the type to take naps – quite the contrary, he was unbelievably energetic half the time, but Riley let him be. There was enough on his plate, and rest was absolutely necessary. The duchess carefully covered him with a blanket that was thrown over the armrest, and after pressing a soft kiss to her husband’s forehead, she quietly exited the room.

#playchoices #the royal romance #the royal heir #choices trr #trr maxwell #choices trh #maxwell x mc #maxwell beaumont #choices fanfic #maxwell beaumont x mc #the royal romance fanfic #the royal heir fanfic #drake walker #choices drake #choices hana #hana lee #liam rhys

[msjr0119]

Cordonian Wags

Part 27

In a world full of Professional footballers and their demanding wives- can their football team nicknamed the ‘Cordonian Apples’ succeed? An American female physiotherapist joins the club. Will this cause issues with the footballers wives?

*This series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch. Other characters belong to me.*

Please do not read if you are under the age of 18. If you do you are consenting that you are over this age. If any of the below warnings affect you, please don’t continue to read.

Warnings: Mention of; sex scandal, drug scandal, prostitution, adultery, death, adultery, murder (past tense). Swearing 🤬

A/N: The first part of this chapter follows on from the previous chapter. Then there is a flash forward (six months). The chapters following on from this one will show certain characters POV’s from the last six months.

Previously: The team all try to piece together the events in Paphos from all those years ago. Drake believes that he has fathered a child after a one night stand after viewing the DNA results- but it’s not as everything seems. Catch up here.

Tags- if you want to be removed/added please let me know 😊: @drakexwillow @plumeriavibes @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bascmve01 @texaskitten30 @nikkis1983 @kimmiedoo5 @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @axwalker @yukinagato2012 @indiacater @rafasgirl23415 @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @choices97 @shanzay44 @lovablegranny @gkittylove99

The morning after, everybody arrived at the stadium to prepare for the days match. All feeling the need to cover up the slight hangovers that they had occurred was proving to a difficult task. Adding to their headaches, was the scandal that Drake Walker had caused. A situation that as a group- they was determined to fix. Quickly.

Drake arrived onto the pitch first, needing any excuse to escape his own house. Having another woman stay there made him feel like he was cheating on Riley. Even if she had made it pretty clear that they couldn’t be together. There was an internal battle going off in his mind. How was he was going to inform her about the news that he had received the previous night? Of course he didn’t want the press to find out prior to her, she didn’t deserve that. But then he was wondering how she would react once she knew. Would she completely ghost him? Who knows.

****

The previous night once she had arrived back at Bastien’s, Riley stayed up the majority of the night researching the Paphos break on google. As a previous WAG herself she knew that events such as these would have been published by the paparazzi. There was no escaping or hiding from them. Her research showed photos of the men arriving at the clubs, hiding their identities as best as they could. But the last article that she stumbled across was based back in Cordonia- or so she believed. The majority of it involved what the Wags were up to whilst their men were away on the ‘lads holiday’ celebrating. Olivia had been for brunch with; Hana, Penelope and Savannah one of the day’s. However, what really caught Riley’s attention was a mystery woman in a nightclub with Madeleine- in Paphos. The two woman were snapped for the majority of the night and seemed pretty close- who was this woman, Riley wondered? If she was a close friend, why wasn’t Madeleine with her the majority of the time now? Zooming into the photo her eyes widened. Amy Amaranth. The name rang a bell for some reason but she couldn’t pin point as to why. It had rattled through her mind all night. Upon her arrival - she noticed Olivier and suddenly a lightbulb struck. Memories flooding back in an instant.

“Hey....” Sounding panic stricken, Olivier looked at her concerned.

“Bonjour belle. Que se passe-t-il?” Hello beautiful. What is the matter? Luckily Riley knew French, not fluently but enough to hold a basic conversation out.

“Amy Amaranth....” Riley didn’t need to elaborate, the look of horror was now painted across the Frenchman’s face.

“That’s a blast from the past...” Olivier hated the woman with a passion - as did most of the footballers. Those that had the sense to not become bewitched by her beauty.

“Sneak away with me for a bit? I need you to help refresh my memory, Olivier.” Nodding, he dropped the ball immediately before making their way off of the pitch. Swiftly.

****

It was half time. The Apples were beating their opponents- currently they were on a winning streak. Which made Bertrand especially proud. Riley made a beeline for Drake knowing that they only had a short amount of time before the second half kicked off.

“Congratulations, Walker.” Riley had noticed after the two goals that he had scored, he would look in her direction- smile. Then have the need to continue playing with a limited celebration.

“Thanks, Brooks..” Unable to make eye contact with her, he concentrated on wiping his boots.

“How are you?”

“As good as I can be. What about you?”

“Listen, Drake.... there’s something I need to tell you...” Ignoring his prior question, she felt the need to just get to the point.

“Don’t bother, I have an inkling about what it is...” Drake put his boots back on, avoiding looking at his ex girlfriend- he stood up and made his way towards the door. Not really wanting this conversation to continue.

“You do?” Riley questioned, hoping that they were both on the same wavelength. If Drake already knew what she needed to inform him about, it would make the whole situation a lot simpler.

“You’ve begun to see, Berger. Hence why you didn’t want to fight for us.”

“I’m not a slut, Drake!”

“Really? You slept with me when I had a girlfriend. You snuck off with him before. What was it? A quick fuck in the changing rooms? Wishing him good luck?”

“No! About us.... How dare you! It takes two to tango!”

“I don’t want to hear it, Ri. I wanted to marry you. Then you ditch me at the first sign of trouble..”

“Myself and Olivier are friends. We have been for many years. Nothing more, nothing less. You know what? It’s a good job that you never got down on one knee because if I’m so much of a ‘slut’ you’d have regretted it. Don’t bother even talking to me until you can say sorry. I can apologise for apparently ditching you- I wanted for you to have the opportunity to get to know your potential child. You wanted kids. I couldn’t give you that. Why am I even arguing with you? I needed to tell you something important, but you know what- fuck you. When it all ends in tears don’t come crawling back to me.” Barging past him, she decided to not look back. If Drake Walker didn’t want to acknowledge anything that she needed to tell him- there would be no way back for the two of them.

“Ri, wait!”

“Leave her. Drake, what the fuck is up with you?” Liam snapped towards his teammate after overhearing the raised voices. As Riley left, she shook her head and provided a deflated expression. Olivier had explained to Liam about Amy just before the match had officially begun. He was determined to help his friends out- but now was unsure as to how to do that.

“Would you leave Liv if you was in my situation? No, I didn’t think so. The blonde bimbo arrived yesterday with her bags packed. I’m stuck with her. I’ve lost Riley for good even without that outburst.”

“Drake, nobody knows about my true relationship with Olivia. We seem like the ‘Posh and Becks’ of Cordonia. But we have an open relationship. You and Riley are different -that is true love, fate. People are fucking with you both for revenge. Next time she tries to explain something to you, listen to her. Trust me. Trust her.”

****

Later on that evening, it was like mission impossible avoiding the paparazzi for Liam and Riley. Meeting in secret, Olivier then joined them in a secluded location. Out of the way of prying eyes. Using a rental car, there would be no reason for anybody to follow them. They had one aim- to warn Drake about Amy. The objective, go to the cabin to do this. Debating whether or not to just blurt the information out? Talk in a civil manner? Would Amy still be there too? Whatever was to happen, it needed to be done.

“So you two, did you both prefer it in the UK or here?” Liam asked breaking the silence surrounding the car journey.

“Neither, by the sounds of it Cordonia is as bad as Manchester for the drama. I’m glad I wasn’t here when Xavier was, I’d have killed him for all of what he put you through, Ri. But enough about us, Liam what about you? Would you ever move clubs?”

“Never say never. But at the moment I’m content where I am.”

Shortly after the brief drive, they arrived at Drake’s cabin- but remained in the car for a bit. Rehearsing what exactly they was going to say, creating different scenarios. After a while, they agreed to just be spontaneous. Riley and Olivier walked to the front door, or rather dragged themselves there. Both feeling slightly nervous about seeing the devil again after all of these years. Knocking quietly, they waited.

Drake, please can we talk?... I’m sorry about before, but there’s something you need to know....Drake, I know her. We know her. She’s not what she seems.....Amy can be sweet but she’s a psycho.

Shit. I’ve forgotten what to say.

Hearing the door creak open, Riley’s thoughts were cut short. Initial shock to begin with made her body stiffen and her brain turn to mush- not having the ability to function. That was until she witnessed the woman’s cocky smirk.

“Oh it seems we have the wrong address, Olivier. I must have amnesia- I believed that this home belonged to Drake Walker...”

“Have we been transported back to Manchester in the tardis, Riley? Bonjour, Amy - long time no see. How is your bit on the side, Aleksandr Chernyshevsky? Last I heard from him, he was playing for Arsenal. So why are you here? How is little Jenson?”

“Aleksandr must be missing his son. His son who you accused so many of the premier league players for fathering, Jenson. Including Xavier. My Xavier.”

“How nice to see you both. Again. If I was you, I’d leave now. You think that the last few months or in your case Riley- years, have been a nightmare. If you both carry on interfering it will go from bad to worse...” There was a slight distance between Riley and Olivier- but as Amy threatened this he could sense that his friend was about to do something that she could regret.

“You bit-“ Preventing Riley from continuing

“Leave her. Don’t be silly. You know how her mind works. She’s poison.”

“Oh, Olivier - you do make me laugh. Anyone would think with your words that I’m a snake.” Standing infront of Riley- the footballer had wished that it was Drake who had answered the door.

“Riley, it’s not nice to swear or shout. So...Shhh, Drake is putting his son to bed remember. Goodnight to you both.” Slamming the door behind her, she hoped that Drake hadn’t been earwigging. Sitting comfortable on the sofa, Drake finally came downstairs- pouring himself a drink before joining her.

“He’s fast asleep. This is the last night though, Amy. If that’s your real name.”

“Of course it is. I mean, people call me Amz for short. Why would you even suggest that? You saw the paperwork with both of our details on it.” Drake thought long and hard about the paperwork- to begin with the only information he was interested in was viewing the fathers details. After the initial shock, he had studied it as if it was part of some crime evidence. Something just wasn’t ‘adding up’ - especially with what the young boy had mentioned to him during the bedtime story whilst in a daze.

Mommy is lying about the name. I want to go home.

“I did indeed see the paperwork. Some things just don’t add up- that’s all. Maybe I’m just paranoid?”

“Well, don’t be. I know that you are still heartbroken over, Rachel....” Purposely mentioning the wrong name, she had hoped that this little ‘mistake’ would help with her plan succeeding.

“It’s, Riley! And I don’t want to talk about her with you when you don’t know her...” That’s what you think.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you....” Providing him with an ‘over the top’ hug, she hoped that being affectionate could be the key to his heart. “But I’m always here if you need to talk. We have a son together. Nothing more. Unless you wanted more that is. I’ll leave you to it.”

“Amy... wait!” Pausing for a moment, he knew to trust his own mind. “Do you want a drink with me?” A drunk mind always speaks the truth.

****

After leaving Drakes, Riley felt like a failure - the men could sense that in the morbidly silent car ride home. Both trying to begin any conversation to get her to respond, with no luck. Olivier had even brought up a story that had always made her laugh. It included how she had tortured him when wasn’t completing his physio correctly. Listening to Spice Girls on a loop.

“Ri, just leave it. Drake isn’t that stupid. He will soon find out the truth. We will bring this bitch down.” Liam said in a determined tone of voice, Olivier agreeing as they arrived at the Rys’s mansion.

“How long will it take us to do that though, Liam?” In all honesty he didn’t know the answer- but felt the need to remain positive for everyone that was involved.

“We’ve all managed between us all to cover up two murders. I promise you, once the truth is out regarding this child - the club will not have anymore scandals. We will remain the best team in Cordonia- and redeem any past mistakes. We’re all in this together.”

“As much as I like Leo...you’d make the better captain, Liam. Thank you for all your help.” Gently kissing him on the cheek, Liam held her tight for a while.

****

Six months later...

Prison time for Apples player? Can his year become any worse than it’s already been? I’m surprised he is still being chosen to play.

Sex scandal- one of the brunette beauties is apparently pregnant? Who is she pregnant with? She seems to be making her way through the team.

Divorce rumours for one of the Apples ‘golden couples’!

Drug scandal and prostitutes!

Match fixing?

Secret relationship uncovered!

Apples player disappears! Where is he? Why has he gone? What are the Apples going to do now?

Ex WAG dies mysteriously. The third person linked to the team. Who’s next on the ‘hit list’?

What does all of this mean for the Apples? They’ve had a rough six months between them all ever since the love child scandal with Walker. A few of the players are playing in the World Cup friendly between Cordonia and France tonight- I wouldn’t place any money on Cordonia winning which has the majority of the Apples players. It would go down the gutter like the club is.

Bertrand slammed the laptop screen down. Almost smashing it. It was bad enough having the commentators criticism during matches. But now every social media platform was joining in at any opportunity. His team wasn’t the only team to have scandals. In his mind he described it all as ‘tragic’ and ‘unlucky’. For some reason the paparazzi were just attracted to them. Like a bad smell. Focusing his gaze onto his young son, he hoped that Bartie would avoid the footballer lifestyle in the future.

No more scandals. No more shit. Think positive, Bertrand! We’ve had enough of that. No wonder I’m prematurely turning grey. Tonight is going to be a good night.

“Bertrand, are you okay?”

“I’m dandy, Sav. Is the babysitter here?”

“Yes.” Studying her husbands tense body, she really wished that he would and could retire early. The stress that he had was causing issues not only with the team but with his marriage. “You need to calm down, my love. Riley is the same. You’re both panicking but neither of you are involved with the national team. It’s a day off for the two of you.”

“No, but my reputation is. My players who have all caused scandals are playing- minus one because he’s gone awol. Your brother should have done a disappearing act instead! All of this shit happened after his love child scandal. He’s a lia-“ Hearing the familiar voice call for his wife- Bertrand prevented his vicious tongue from continuing. Taking a deep breath- he lead his wife downstairs, where they were greeted by a smiley face. An expression that was cleverly hiding/masking a fusion of mixed feelings.

“Hello, Riley. Sorry to have kept you waiting.”

“I was just going to wait in the car, but I’m desperate for the toilet. May I use it, please?”

“Well I’m not going to allow you to ruin my floor am I? I can order a taxi so you don’t have to drive.”

“Bertrand, I’m fine driving. I’m not drinking and you both know why. So I may as well do it. I’ll be two minutes.” Bertrand began pacing the room, Riley’s ‘two minutes’ seemed to last a lifetime. Eventually she joined the Beaumont’s before making their way towards her car. Riley completely oblivious to the tension between the married couple during the drive spoke positively about the upcoming match. All Bertrand could think about was which person would cause the next possible scandal.

****

Euphoria echoed around the stadium in central Cordonia. Even with all of the scandals, there was still that slight support from ‘die hard fans’.

In the tunnel, players from both sides were psyching themselves up- it was only a friendly but the French side apart from Olivier were providing snide remarks to their opponents.

“Bonne Chance! Just ignore my brothers. Ce sont des trous.” Olivier said to Drake - hoping that the match would end a draw and finish in a civil manner. Tonight he was playing piggy in the middle- wanting to stay loyal to his national team as well as his current team.

“Whatever, Berger!”

“What he means, is good luck to you too - Olivier. Isn’t that right, Drake?”

“Merci, Captain! I’ll catch up with you after the match...” Watching the French team make their way towards the pitch, Drake turned to his friend as soon as Olivier was out of view.

“Rys! I can speak for myself. I can say what I want. I’d have thought that out of everybody I could trust you to defend me. Not belittle me. These last few months you’ve been practically non existent to me.”

“I’m sorry about that. I’ve been busy dealing with my own shit. Your issues have been self inflicted. Now grow some balls and don’t fuck this match up. Be civil with everyone- including Olivier. He’s done nothing wrong to you. I’m relying on you tonight and so is Bradshaw. You need to redeem yourself. You’ve been given this opportunity to play tonight by our manager- unlike Bertrand who’s kept you benched all of these months.”

“Don’t you think that I feel shit about myself as it is without that wanker punishing me? He may be my brother in law but I hate him. I’ve lost everything. Everyone. I needed you L-“ Before Drake could continue, Maxwell came bounding over. Hyper as always.

“Guys... quick question before we go on to the pitch... Why is Olivier wearing blue and out there with the French team? He’s one of us.”

“Because he’s fucking French you absolute dipstick!” Drake snapped towards a confused Maxwell. Eventually he laughed at himself. At his own stupidity. As Drake was still scowling, and rolling his eyes - Maxwell decided to defend himself. Which was something that he rarely did. “Hey! Don’t take your shit out on me. I forgot. Jesus, Drake. You know I’m not the brightest person. It’s not my fault that you’ve messed your life up. No wonder, Riley doesn’t talk to you anymore. I’m beginning to think about doing the same if you continue to talk to me like I’m a piece of shit!”

“For your information, Beaumont.... Ri has spoken to me. A lot more than any of you have!”

“Oh, really?” Drake gulped as Maxwell asked this in a sarcastic manner. Knowing full well that he was lying with his previous statement regarding Riley- he wished that it was true. That she would talk to him more often. At this moment in time, receiving the odd text from her was better than nothing. Baby steps, he kept reminding himself.

“Yes, she came to visit me in the cell. I didn’t ask her to- but she did. She still loves me, I know deep down that she does.” The two men looked at each other not knowing what to say. Not needing a reason to cause Drake to possibly ‘rage’ again. Maxwell knew that he was already a target for Drake’s mouth to sprout abuse towards- so decided to inform his friend about some home truths.

“When you was arrested... well... she may have come to visit you. To talk to you. But that’s all it was, Drake. Since then, Riley has dealt with a lot. She’s having a good life now- actually dating again. We only know because Savannah let it slip when she was drunk.” Remaining silent, not knowing how to respond- many questions were now floating throughout Drake’s mind. Forcing himself onto the pitch, he looked up into the crowd and immediately spotted Savannah and Riley whispering in each other’s ears. Laughing. Smiling. He couldn’t remember the last time that he had witnessed Riley looking so cheerful. Thinking back to the last words that she had physically spoken to him - he now knew that he needed to get his act together. If not only for his sake, but for everybody.

Forget about the past. Bertrand has tried to sort your shit out. I don’t know if he has succeeded or not. But for now, you need to publicly apologise to the fans as well as the man that you could have potentially killed.

#choices trr #theroyalromance #the royal romance fanfic #trr au cordonian wags #drake x Riley #drake x oc #Riley x Liam friendship #Riley x oc #tw swearing #tw mention of death #tw mention of drugs #tw mention of prostitution #tw mention of adultery #tw mention of murder (past tense) #tw mention of sex scandal