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vettelsvee · 17 days

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MEETING | Sebastian Vettel

f1 masterlist | history series masterlist

summary: diana, after being accepted as a candidate for the toro rosso internship program, begins her not-so-wonderful journey in the world of formula 1 and meets her future husband, sebastian vettel, as well as her biggest nightmare, nico rosberg

word count: 5568

warnings: mentions of suicide, sexism.

taglist: [@theseerbetweenus @annewithaneofthegreengable] if you wanna be tagged in each part just tell me in the comments <3

¡! you can read the fanfic as diana or y/n, but the faceclaim will always be my girl emma stone :)

feedback is truly appreciated!

2023

"Diana, are you ready?"

The woman's attention was immediately captured when Mark Webber, who had offered, along with Jenson Button, directing the documentary, spoke to her. Quickly, she put her mobile phone in her blazer pocket and nodded at the former driver, indicating that she was ready to start filming.

"Alright," Mark announced. "Remember, Diana, just as we rehearsed with your husband during the script reading: you introduce yourself, talk a bit about what you're currently doing, and then we start talking about your childhood, just from when you were born until you were accepted into the Toro Rosso internship program," the Australian said.

The readhead swallowed, sat better and looked directly into the camera, that was already recording without the woman being conscious.

Immediately, as if she knew what was happening, she began to speak to it:

"My name's Diana Vettel, I'm 34 years old and, as you might already now, I'm wife to four-time Formula 1 World Champion, Sebastian Vettel. However," she clarified, "I prefer to be known as his race engineer for ten years, from 2012 to 2022 and, currently, I'm the co-director, alongside Susie Wolff, of the F1 Academy," she smiled proudly.

Sebastian entered the studio where the shootings were taking place, and when he saw his wife so self-assured, he couldn't feel anything but proud of her. There was no doubt that those sleepless nights, consoling her tears for not feeling enough in a male-dominated world, and the years of visits to her psychologist, which she still attended, had had an incredible effect on her.

"Well, wait!" Diana suddenly exclaimed. "We can't forget that I'm the reason behind Seb's first victory in Formula 1. Monza 2008, to be more precise," she confirmed, causing laughter from the ones around her.

"We already know quite a lot about Vettel's childhood, but now: what can you tell us a little bit about yours?" Button inquired, sitting next to Mark behind the cameramen.

Diana tensed up. It wasn't that she was afraid to recall her childhood, but she didn't consider it significant enough to be in the documentary. Moreover, talking about her private life... let's just say she didn't like it a lot.

The German knew his wife so well that he could vence how she was feeling at the moment. She had the urge to get up and give her a comforting hug, but he also knew that the recording couldn't be interrupted. For that reason, he simply smiled at her from his seat while giving her a thumbs up.

Diana, after seeing Sebastian doing that, laughed.

Since 2008, halfway through her second year as a Mechanical Engineering student and after joining the Toro Rosso internship program, she didn't know how the guy who initially seemed to be a jerk, ended up becoming her whole world.

"It's quite simple, Jenson: I was born in Linz, Austria, on April 27, 1988," began the woman. "My mum decided to end her life when I was 14, back in 2002, and that was the main reason why my dad took both my sister and I to Spain so we could start all over again."

Diana stared into the camera, beginning to ponder the impression people might have of her after that brief introduction.

Mark adjusted himself in his seat, ready to shift the conversation away from the glances Sebastian seemed to be directing at him. He had been fortunate to get to know the couple during his time at RedBull, and he had no doubt that both of them had changed a lot since then, especially the German.

“But every bad thing has something positive, right, Diana?” questioned Webber. “You always say that, and the fact that you’re here now is proof of it.”

“Exactly,” continued Jenson. “This might sound a bit bad, but if that didn’t happen, you wouldn’t have met Seb.”

Mrs. Vettel nodded.

“It was all because of my father actually, who couldn’t bear the stares from neighbors, his coworkers, and the harassment my sister and I faced at school too,” explained the woman, her tears slightly evident. “We did it without thinking: we packed our most important belongings, my father quit his job and, a few hours laters, I was on a plane all the way to Barcelona, with no knowledge of Spanish and no expectations about what could happen in my new life.”

That made Sebastian remember one of the first conversations he had with Diana, where the young woman told him she felt more Spanish than Austrian.

“This is the first time I speak publicly about my childhood,” said Diana, wiping away smeared makeup with a tissue given to her by production. “I’m sorry, really: I always try to think that I’ve overcome it, but the fact is that you never really overcome it.”

“Do you feel more comfortable now that you’ve shared this with the audience?” Webber inquired in an attempt to console the young woman.

The redhead looked at Sebastian, who was visibly concerned at that moment.

“No,” she replied, “quite the opposite, actually. I think I’m even more vulnerable now, and social media criticism is going to pour in, but I’m glad I did it because I’ve taken a weight off my shoulders,” she listed, “and I also know that many viewers will realize the importance of mental health, especially in those moments when everything seems fine when it’s actually the opposite.”

“Is that a hint, sweetheart?”

Vettel, who already knew the answer, sarcastically commented. Still, he needed his wife to confirm it on camera.

“Everyone knows that when I gained confidence in myself, I never beat around the bush; this wasn’t going to be an exception.”

“What do you think is the highlight of your sudden move to Spain?” Button asked Diana.

“Being accepted into the Toro Rosso internship program,” she replied. “That’s when my dream of years started to come true, although hell also made its presence felt.”

Sebastian smiled, remembering it all too well.

The best was about to begin.

“Those who know me well know that I’ve been a Formula 1 fan since I was a child. 1994 is the year I remember the most, especially when Michael became world champion,” explained the Austrian, reminiscing early memories as an enthusiast of the sport. “I was only six years old, but that image is engraved in my memory.”

“For that reason, I decided to study Mechanical Engineering at Universidad Politécnica de Cataluña,” the woman continued in perfect Spanish, surprising everyone in the room except Seb.

“And that was before she even met me,” Sebastian chimed in, causing laughter among those present. “That was a great bonus.”

Taking the documentary seriously was going to be difficult, but as the woman used to say, within all those hard times, a laugh made it all forgettable.

“I studied for years, trying to give my best to get the highest grades,” Diana continued, “and I did it after achieving an average score of 9.28 out of 10 in selectividad, the Spanish entrance exam you need to take in order to study a degree.”

“Tell them if you really needed such a high score, Di.”

The girl laughed at her husband’s comment. She already knew where he was going with that.

“In fact, no: the cutoff score was, I believe, around a five out of ten. I just pushed myself to the limit because I was ambitious and wanted to be the best, too,” she smiled, a slight blush appearing on her cheeks. “Well, and I still like to be the best.”

“See why we got along so well from the beginning?”

“That’s debatable, Sebastian,” remarked Webber, “bet let’s let the viewers hear your story little by little.”

“Indeed, Mark,” agreed Jenson Button with him, “let’s take it step by step. Diana, what made you join Toro Rosso?”

2007 December 3rd

Barcelona, Spain

The first semester of the second year of Diana being a university student seemed endless.

Final exams were approaching, bringing with them the submission of multiple papers, projects, and even some practical written tests. Adding to this, her father had recently lost his job just a few weeks ago. It was easy to understand why the Austrian, who had considered herself Spanish for years, was dozing off in one of the chairs in Room 7, even though it was time for one of her favorite classes: Fluid Mechanics.

As soon as Dr. Martínez stepped into the classroom, all the students stopped talking. Even Diana, who had closed her eyes for a few seconds to see if she could quell her sleep, opened them quickly. The woman, in her fifties, was one of the most beloved professors by students; at the same time, she was considered one of the strictest, and that's what made her one of the most wanted by universities not only in Spain but worldwide.

For this reason, and especially because she always fought for visibility of women in the scientific field, she was Wagner's favorite.

"Good morning, class," she greeted, positioning herself in the center of the platform where she usually lectured. A smile on her face appeared. "Before I start explaining the new topic, which I remind you is the last one for our January exam, I would like to share some news that I know will be interesting for most of you."

At these last words, those present began to pay even more attention, readjusting in their seats curious about what the woman had to announce. Diana was no exception.

"Some companies in the field of engineering have started offering scholarships for students like you to work with them while continuing their studies. For the most talented, I must say," she added with certain authority in her voice.

Excitement and anticipation for the announcement filled the room, where some surprised noises and, in other cases, disappointment, were heard.

"These scholarships offer the opportunity to have a unique experience, allowing you to enter the workforce earlier than expected. At the same time, it will help you start applying everything you have learned during this brief year and a half, and see if you are suited to do the job."

Murmurs began to fill the class. It was a truly incredible opportunity, and it would be rare for someone not to want to be part of it.

Diana, whose mind was always one step ahead, was already wondering which companies would be part of it. For that reason, she decided to raise her hand to ask.

"Miss, I would like to know if you could share more information about the companies that are offering these scholarships."

The woman nodded, thankful for the question from her favorite student and pleased to see her interest once again.

"Of course, Diana. There are leading companies in the field of automotive engineering, aerospace engineering, and something related to renewable energies, which are becoming popular. Each one has a different focus, with a wide variety of projects and areas, so I'm sure there will be interests for each of you."

The young woman's mind began to process all the information, looking through the possibilities the woman had mentioned. While her dream was to work in the automotive world that she was so passionate about, and the path was proving extremely challenging, the possibility of being awarded a scholarship was what made her cling to a distressing hope.

"To apply in this sort of internship program, you will need to send your CV and a letter explaining to the company why you would like to join them," the teacher explained. "Then, some responsible figure of the respective companies will choose the most outstanding students, I guess."

During the remaining class time, Diana could barely pay attention to the explanation. She was excited, and she would dare say scared, about this kind of talk that was taking place. Her innate curiosity made her want to know more. Therefore, when the teacher announced that the class had ended, and her classmates began to leave the room, the twenty-year-old started to pack her things slowly, making sure no one else was there before speaking with her teacher.

"Dr. Martínez, do you mind if I ask you some questions about the internship program?"

"Of course," she replied as she gathered her documents. "Tell me what's on your mind, Diana."

The girl tried to disguise her nervousness, clearing her throat before speaking.

"I have doubts about whether to apply to any of the companies. Honestly, I don't think they'll choose me because I'm a woman. I sometimes struggle to talk to my classmates, so I can't imagine what it would be like for me to apply for a position like that."

Martínez raised her gaze to the redhead, now dyed blonde, full of understanding.

"Diana, I understand that you're worried," she began, placing her hands on her shoulders, "but I want you to know that you are one of the brightest students I have had in these months, and I would even venture to say in my entire teaching career," she explained sincerely, earning an excited smile from the girl. "Keep in mind that, whatever you do, your gender doesn't have to be an obstacle for you to fight for what you want."

Those last words resonated strongly in Diana's mind, who was quite moved at that point. That was exactly what the young woman needed to hear.

"Also, I’d like to tell you something I haven't mentioned in class because I only want you to know, given your interest in a certain topic," the woman continued, further catching the student's attention. "The Toro Rosso Formula 1 team is offering a single position as an assistant for a race engineer, but I don't know which driver in particular."

Diana's eyes widened, not believing what she had just heard from her teacher. The idea of working in Formula 1 was the reason why she was there, striving every day even when she felt like giving up everything.

"Do you think I should send them my application, then?" Wagner asked, intending to make sure before making a hasty decision.

"Absolutely," Dr. Martínez affirmed firmly. "You are an exceptional student, and you have demonstrated great skills in just a year and a half of your studies, which impresses me quite a bit, to be honest. You have the potential to do great things within Formula 1, and I know you will go far if you make it to the sport."

As Diana continued to listen to the woman speak, she couldn't believe there was a chance, even if it was minimal, that her dream would come true. What she didn't like so much was the fact that the woman spoke as if she were already inside the world, but she could do nothing but get excited.

If her application was denied…

“By the way, Diana, are you free during the next hour?”

“Yes. In fact, I was about to head home,” answered Diana, questioning the woman in front of her. “Do you need something?”

The woman affirmed, nodding slightly.

“Let's create your cover letter and resume so we can send it as soon as possible,” she said, taking the lead. “I'm sure many of my colleagues in the department know this information just like me.”

The young woman agreed, and immediately they headed towards Martínez's office, trying not to attract too much attention among the students and, above all, hurrying as much as possible. In those moments, time was of the essence.

Once there, the professor took a seat in front of the computer and offered Diana the seat opposite her. Before the redhead had even let go of her belongings, the teacher was already pulling a stack of papers and a couple of pens from one of the desk drawers.

"Your resume comes directly from our database, but the cover letter doesn't," she explained briskly. "I want you to write down whatever you feel is the reason why you need that position at Toro Rosso."

Having said that, Martínez put on her glasses and focused her gaze on the screen, ignoring Wagner. The girl didn't know what to do or say. Who was she supposed to write to, Franz Tost? No, she was sure team bosses weren't the ones in charge of reading those letters, if anyone read them at all.

"Try to make it as natural as possible," the woman commented to her student without looking at her. "Make them see that you have a passion for engineering, for the sport, and especially, make them miss you when they haven’t met you yet."

Make them miss you when they haven’t met you yet.

Diana took a deep breath and began to let her ideas transfer to paper, flowing without much thought.

Dear members of the Toro Rosso team, it is an honor to have the opportunity to apply for this internship position in your prestigious racing team. Since I was a child, I have always dreamed of being part of the wonderful world of Formula 1...

No, too fanciful and flattering. The young woman crossed everything out, and seeing that she was starting to feel confused, she crumpled up the paper and set it aside on the corner of the table.

Dear Mr. Tost and the rest of the Toro Rosso team: I would like to express my sincere interest in the position of race engineer intern. As a Mechanical Engineering student, I have acquired skills that I would like to develop professionally and, above all, apply them to the field I have been passionate about since I can remember.

Why was it so difficult to write something just to try to make your dream come true?

Pilar Martínez glanced at Diana and shocked her head. That girl who was showing so much insecurity at that moment, as happened in many classes, had the potential to become one of the greatest prodigies in motorsport.

"Don't overthink it, lady," she said affectionately. "Show your true personality and, if you need to, just take a little break before continuing."

The girl shook her head. She simply closed her eyes and imagined what she wanted most at that moment: her, sitting in front of a wall of screens, with headphones on, communicating with Michael Schumacher about what he should do in every turn and straight, when he should pit for a tire change, and even celebrating the occasional victory.

Who said Schumacher, said Alonso. She would even settle for one of the rookies, like that guy who joined Toro Rosso halfway through the previous season and she liked a little bit, Sebastian Vettel.

After several more attempts, she finally brought out everything she wanted to say. She had never felt so proud of any of her writings; not even with her graduation speech in high school, which made the entire teaching staff cry.

Dear members of the Toro Rosso team, With my heart filled with excitement and, especially, gratitude for the opportunity given to university students like me to be part of your team, I submit my application for the internship position as a race engineer. My name is Diana Wagner, I was born in Austria nineteen years ago, and my heart not only belongs to Spain, the country that welcomed me when I needed it the most, but also to the sport of which you are a part: Formula 1. My journey as a Mechanical Engineering student has been short, but I assure you, intense; at the same time, I have grown and learned a lot not only as a future professional but as a person. Throughout this year and a half, I have acquired a wealth of skills and knowledge thanks to the professionals from whom I am fortunate to receive instruction, and if it weren't for them, I wouldn't have the necessary preparation to face certain challenges—although, not deceiving you, I have a long way to go and much to learn. Every subject studied, project completed, and tear shed has been an opportunity to test and prove to myself that even the impossible is difficult. Beyond my knowledge as a student, I would also like to tell you about my passion for the world of motorsports, as I briefly mentioned before. Since I can remember, I have followed every free practice, qualifying, and race, as well as every press conference of each Grand Prix. The deafening sound of the engines, the suffocating speed of the single-seaters, and the passion that teams and drivers have shown have not only been my inspiration to pursue my studies and shape my future but also to grow as a person. In the darkest times of my life, Formula 1 became my light, and it still is. Like drivers work tirelessly to give their best, I also strive to overcome the limits imposed not only because I am a woman, but also because I am too hard-working. Therefore, I know that the opportunity to work alongside the professionals that make up your team would be an unparalleled honor, and I assure you that every day I would show you that I am capable of more. I deeply appreciate the time you have taken to read my cover letter. Although it may be hard to believe the words of a girl who, after all, is still a teenager trying to make her way in the adult world, I assure you that I have to prove much more than what you think.

Possibly, those last words were what made it possible for Diana Wagner to be the selected candidate as an intern at Toro Rosso among approximately two thousand of the best students from all over Europe.

2008 March 13th

Australian GP

“Sweetheart, are you sure you have everything with you?”

The bleached blonde was certain that she did, that she had everything she needed for her new job except for one detail and, surprisingly, the most important one: knowing where she had to go. In front of her was the entrance to Albert Park, and all she felt was a great overwhelm from the size of that circuit. She saw people coming in and out of the venue constantly, both walking and in vehicles that probably cost as much, or even more, than the flat she lived with her sister and father in Barcelona.

“Yes, of course,” she replied, trying to sound as calm as possible. “I'm waiting outside for someone to come and meet me."

“But didn't you say you had to go inside, and that someone would be waiting for you in the box?”

She hated how blunt Amelie was.

“I'm more lost than during my exams period when we first moved to Spain,” she joked. “Now I'll try to figure out what to do. There’s no need to worry about me.”

Bernhard started shouting something in German to his younger daughter, and immediately continued talking to Diana. It seemed surreal to the girl that her family was making a phone call with her at two in the morning in Spain.

“You better get in there, even if you have to jump over a fence!,” he shouted in German, a little annoyed. “And I don't care if you get caught or anything: you haven't traveled to the other damn end of the world and left me with your sister, all alone, just for you to stand there with your arms crossed.”

When Bernhard Wagner got angry, he did, and a lot.

“Yeah, Dad, I know,” she replied, a bit angry because her father seemed not to trust her. “In fact, I'm getting closer now, I have the pass they sent me by mail in my hand, and I'm going through the accreditation with this weird machine. I'll hang up, okay?”

It was a rhetorical question because Diana, before being able to hear an answer from her father, hung up the call. As she let out a long sigh, held in throughout the phone call, she passed her accreditation through the identification sensor, but the photo they asked her for months ago didn't appear.

Again, she tried, and nothing appeared on the screen. She kept trying over and over, which managed to attract the attention of more than one of those present, who did nothing to help the intern.

“Damn it…”

After that, Diana began to unleash a string of curses in German, some of which she had made up on the spot and made no sense at all. She couldn't believe that it would be more difficult than she had planned just to enter the venue and talk to whoever she had to talk to. She was a firm believer in destiny, and she knew that it meant she had to go back to Spain, to her natural hair color and to her university courses.

Frustration was taking over the Austrian, and she was sure that, if she hadn't heard a male voice in German beside her, she would have burst into tears like she never did before.

“Do you speak German too? Do you want me to help you with that?”

Diana nodded her head and looked up at the person who was talking to her. A blond guy, of medium height, who seemed to be a couple of years older than her, was the one who was talking to her. His face was somewhat familiar, although she still couldn't put a name to it.

Another mistake for the rookie Diana Wagner. Of course, if there were other interns besides her, she was sure she wouldn't win the Intern of the Year award, if such a thing existed.

“I tried to get my accreditation to work, but, as you can see” she began to explain, pointing at the card, “it doesn't want to let me into the paddock.”

“Do you mind giving it to me?”

The girl offered it to him without hesitation, feeling much more relaxed in the company of that driver, in case he was. He proceeded to clean it a bit with his shirt a couple of times and immediately passed it again through the scanner.

Her name, along with a photo of her with her newly dyed blonde hair, appeared on the screen.

“So... Diana Wagner, huh?,” the guy inquired, wanting to know more about her. “What brings you here?”

“As they told me a few months ago, I am Toro Rosso's new intern. Supposedly, I'll be subordinate to a track engineer or something like that, I'm not really sure what I'll end up doing.”

The girl answered him honestly, and to her surprise, the stranger seemed to understand something that had been on her mind for a long time, as if he already knew who she was.

“Vettel is going to be damn lucky to have you,” he said shamelessly, “and I would be delighted to have a girl like you by my side too.”

Diana felt her cheeks flush, and although deep down that comment had bothered her, she couldn't help but feel flattered in part.

“And are you supposed to be...?”

“Nico Rosberg,” he took the girl's hand and gave it a short kiss, “F1 driver for Williams. It's an honor to meet you, and let me tell you that, if you get bored with the other blond German, you have privileged access to my box whenever you want.”

Putting on his backpack and giving the girl a slight bow, he left without giving any explanation.

Diana was left bewildered by what she had just experienced. However, even more impressed was Sebastian, who began to feel sorry because he knew that, no matter how much that blonde-haired girl tried to give her best, they would only minimize her achievements.

[...]

After a couple of laps around the circuit, and some explanation of how Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends worked, Diana Wagner was already sitting at a long table with Franz Tost, Toro Rosso's team principal.

The man, despite showing a quite serious demeanor, maintaining composure at all times, had inspired enough confidence in the intern for her to open up a bit to him, especially talking about how her career was going; they also discussed how the blonde would balance her studies with her new job. All this while her supposed boss and the driver she would be subordinate to appeared.

A few knocks on the door startled her. Tost, as if he already knew about the imminent arrival, got up from his seat and headed to the door. As soon as he opened it, it revealed a man in his thirties accompanied by a boy who was already wearing the team's uniform.

Although he looked like Rosberg, at the same time, she could tell he was completely different: his face was longer, and his height seemed to be a few centimeters shorter. He had a big smile on his face, and as soon as he entered the room, he started making jokes that even made the girl laugh.

She barely knew that boy, and he already inspired trust in her.

“Alright, Diana,” announced Franz, causing her to stand up quickly: “this is Alex, who will be, let's say, your master in terms of track engineering,” he introduced the man, shaking his hand, “and this is Sebastian Vettel, one of the young promises we are lucky to have in our team.”

The blonde cheerfully extended his hand to the girl, who accepted it gladly.

“Please, Franz, don't say that,” joked Vettel, “I'm just a kid with incredible potential waiting to get a world title or something similar.”

The intern laughed, immediately regretting it. Her shyness was showing, and Sebastian noticed it, so that's why he decided to gently stroke her hand, slowly enough so that no one else, besides them, would know about that small gesture.

“See?,” said the German, now addressing his engineer, “I told you she was going to like me.”

2023

“That season was a mess,” said Sebastian, looking at the camera while fixing his hair. “The first four races ended in a DNF, and my motivation went down completely” explained the former driver. “The car was crap, but not finishing four damn races? Shit, I didn't want to say bad words…”

“What Seb means,” his wife stated, interrupting him, “is that he had much higher expectations in March 2008, and little by little, he started being conscious of reality. I went through the same thing: even though I thought I was going to do little, I ended up doing even less.”

The documentary directors recalled that information.

“The camera is yours, Mrs. Vettel,” one of the cameramen spoke over, receiving a thumbs up from the redhead.

“There's not much to say, really, except that I remember thinking about leaving because all I did was sit in front of the screens and watch the race just like I did from the TV in my house,” she expressed a bit angry, remembering everything all too well. “And of course, the comments and looks couldn't be missing. I felt like a Playboy model sometimes, I swear. They even mistook me for a grid girl one day entering the pit lane!”

“God, yes,” Seb agreed, joining his wife's monologue. “I don't know if you guys remember,” he pointed at Jenson and Mark, “but there were times when, I swear, it felt like it was more of a Jersey Shore-type show or something like that than a race weekend.”

Diana agreed with the German.

“I think, if I remember correctly, I received a total of forty-eight requests to go out for a drink from Friday to Sunday,” she tried to remember. “Well, a drink and a sex session after that, let's be honest.”

“And I'm glad to say that I wasn't part of that group of assholes,” he covered his mouth directly, receiving a reprimanding look from Webber. “But I had a reason not to.”

“Yes,” the redhead agreed, “although it's not the time to talk about that. Remember sunshine: let's go step by step.”

“It's not to stay on Sebastian’s side,” interrupted Button the couple's dialogue, “but since the moment he first met you, he had incredible respect for you, and I would even dare say admiration.” Vettel snorted, remembering some of the many rumors the girl he fought so much for had to face. He remembered more than once hearing her going to vent in Toro Rosso's bathroom, and even on more than one occasion, he heard her secretly talking to her father, asking him to please fake some illness or something to get out of that.

Ironically, it came true.

“I've been Diana Vettel's number 1 fan since the day I met her,” confessed Seb. “Since March 13, 2008, to be more precise.”

Everyone was impressed by Sebastian's memory, including Diana.

“In addition to the announcement made during the German Grand Prix week, where it was finally revealed that you would join Red Bull the following year thanks to Coulthard's retirement, becoming my teammate,” Mark continued, laughing, “there was another event that marked you in 2008, shortly after.”

“It seemed like everything was going downhill for this lady here,” Sebastian pointed at Diana, “and for me, and that our effort was in vain.”

“But Monza changed everything because Sebastian and I discovered that, together, we could do great things,” continued the woman, trying not to kiss her husband, who had a huge smile on his face, in front of everyone.

116 notes · View notes

starkwlkr · 10 months

Note

[motogp anon] about the joan mir au,,,

basically reader is a single mother and is a news reporter and is covering a story during a motogp race week, whilst also bringing her kid (son/daughter, either is fine!) but kid gets lost because the kid likes wandering off on their own (and yn was busy reporting smthng), then the kid runs into joan. joan returns the kid, and BOOM! meets the reader and falls in love at first sight :*

little matchmaker | joan mir

motogp anon, this request is amazing 🫶🏼🫶🏼 thank youuuu and I’m such a sucker when it comes to driver/riders with kids 😭 also you can imagine whichever grand prix for this one and also the faceclaim 🫶🏼

TWO SOULS DON’T FIND EACH OTHER BY SIMPLE ACCIDENT

Y/n was getting ready to go get her interviews started with a couple of riders before the Grand Prix started. “Okay, we’re good.” A worker said as she was handed a microphone.

“Mama!” A young girls voice yelled as she ran to her mother and hugged her legs.

“Sofia, honey, mama has to work. Why don’t you go stand with Lucy over there?” Y/n pointed to her co-worker, Lucy, who behind the camera pointing it at Y/n.

“But I want to stay with you!” Sofia whined and hugged her mother tightly.

“I know you do, but mama has to ask questions right now. I’ll be done soon.” Y/n explained to the girl who groaned in response and walked towards Lucy.

“Okay, now I’m ready.” Y/n gave a thumbs up and cleared her throat.

“Three, two and we’re live.”

Sofia was bored. Standing next to Lucy was boring her so she walked off hoping to find something interesting to do. Y/n was busy asking Jorge Martin a couple questions so she was completely unaware that her little girl had wandered off.

Sofia looked around and saw many people walking in different directions. She had spotted an electric scooter parked on the side of a motorhome. She approached it and poked the seat, afraid that if she layed a hand on it the whole scooter would fall on its side.

“Boo!” A man’s voice startled her.

“That wasn’t nice!” She raised her voice and pointed a finger at the man.

“You’re right, I’m sorry. But poking someone’s scooter isn’t nice either.” He replied and crouched down to reach her level of eyesight.

“This is yours?” Sofia asked. “Can I ride it?”

“You’re little. Plus I don’t think your parents would like that I’m letting you drive something that’s way bigger than you.”

“But I’m growing! Last night I was this tall and then this morning I’m more taller! Mama said so.” Sofia explained.

“And where is your mama? I don’t see her.” He looked around for her mother but it looked like no one was around to claim the little girl.

“She’s asking questions, that’s her job. But I got bored so I came here.”

“Well that’s not a nice thing to do to your mama. She’s going to be worried about you. You said her job is to ask questions?”

Joan took the girl’s hand and together they walked around the paddock. Sofia talked to him as if she knew him her whole life. Joan was more than happy to answer any questions the little girl had like ‘how fast can you go on a motorcycle?’ or ‘do you know the muffin man?’

Finally they reached the main spot where most interviews are conducted. “Do you see your mama?” Joan asked the girl.

Sofia looked around then spotted her mother speaking on the phone while Lucy comforted her. “There!” Sofia pointed and dragged Joan towards her mother. “Mama!”

Y/n ended the phone call and let out a sigh of relief. “You scared me, Sofia. You don’t run off like that ever again, okay?” She took the little girl into her arms and kissed Sofia’s cheek.

“I’m sorry, I was bored.” Sofia apologized. “But guess what?”

“What?” Y/n asked.

“Joan said he knows the muffin man and that he can go super fast on his motorcycle!”

Y/n lightly chuckled. She turned her attention to Joan, who she was meeting for the first time even though they worked together.

“I found her looking at my scooter by my motorhome.” Joan explained. He always heard stories about love at first sight but he didn’t think they were true at all. How could someone fall in love with a person they just met? But now that he saw her, he decided that love at first sight was real.

“I’m going to get Sofia something to eat.” Lucy said and grabbed Sofia’s hand.

“Bye, Joan! Next time, can we ride your scooter on the track?” Sofia asked.

“If your mama says it’s okay.” Joan replied with a smile.

“I’ll think about it. Go with Lucy, baby.” Y/n said.

Sofia and Lucy walked away, leaving Joan and Y/n alone together. This was his chance to ask her out. But then his thoughts started to cloud his mind.

‘She’s probably still together with Sofia’s dad’

‘She’s married’

‘She’s going to think I’m unprofessional’

“Thank you for bringing back my daughter. She’s always running around.” Y/n finally thanked Joan.

“No problem. She’s really funny, made me laugh on the way over here many times.” Joan admitted. “I’m Joan, I don’t think I told you my name.”

“I know . . I mean I know who you are because you’re a rider and you’re a world champion, yeah sorry if I ramble a little too much. I’m Y/n.”

“Y/n . . . I love your name.” He thought he had said it in his head but realized he actually said it when Y/n started to chuckle.

“Thank you. And thank you again for bringing Sofia back to me. I’ll see you around, Joan.” Y/n smiled then started to walk away.

Stupid! Say something to her!

“Would you like to get dinner sometime? I don’t know if you’re interested and if you’re not then I completely understand. I probably sound stupid even asking because you’re probably in a relationship. You’re a really lovely person and I wish I had met you earlier in my life. I find it impossible not to like you.” He blurted out.

Y/n stood in front of Joan completely speechless. This was something straight out of a romance novel.

“Your silence is really killing me so can you please say something.” Joan said.

“I don’t have a babysitter.” She replied.

“That’s not a problem for me. We can all go out to eat together. Not to brag, but I think Sofia likes me.”

“Sofia isn’t the only one.”

#motogp #motogp fanfic #motogp anon #motogp imagine #joan mir #joan mir imagine #joan mir x reader #joan mir fanfic

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c3stlav1e · 2 months

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˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ basics

♡ . stage name: sol

♡ . birth name: kang seolah

♡ . birthday: oct 12, 1994

♡ . zodiac: libra

♡ . birthplace: daegu, south korea

♡ . ethnicity: korean

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ personal

♡ . personality

growing up in a household with traditionally conservative values, one of the first things seolah learned was to appease. she is all about being neutral and realistic, sticking to the middle of the road 9 times out of 10. the argument between nature and nurture can surely be made, but much of her knack for people pleasing nowadays comes from her genuine want to make people happy or keep the peace whether or not it’s exactly what she wants. she’s very good at keeping a cool head and generally has a very calm presence that her friends and members have noted they value in their chaotic industry. she’s typically never one to take big risks and can be rather indecisive. some feel that she is boring, but once you get to know her, she is a steady and reliable presence in each of her friends’ lives.

♡ . family

. han junghee ; grandmother

. kang youngchul ; grandfather

. kang sunmi ; mother

♡ . physical

. height: 160 cm ( 5’3” )

. faceclaim: kang seulgi

. body mods: double lobe piercings and a cartilage piercing on her right ear

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ professional

♡ . label: rainbow entertainment

♡ . training period: 2 years

♡ . group position: leader, main vocalist

♡ . idol persona

seolah is a natural leader, taking a very nurturing and motherly attitude in her role, especially being the oldest. she is the peacemaker and the role model, keeping all of her ducks in a row. she has a more shy and quiet disposition on variety shows or interviews, and is typically found sitting back and watching the other members have fun or answer questions with an admiring gaze rather than jumping in herself. she is often called referred to as the mom of the group by fans and this is proven in the little ways she cares for her members that are often caught on camera such as feeding them or encouraging them through practice or on stage. sometimes she plays up the motherly role with lovies as well, using her socials to ask how they’re days have been or asking of they’ve eaten yet. this isn’t to say that it’s all she’s known for, her powerful vocals capturing the attention of fans and non-fans alike. she frequently appears on singing shows or posting covers to her instagram story to show off her talents. several of her covers have gone viral, some even calling her the kelly clarkson of kpop. she is also the most likely member to be singing or humming something random at any point in the day, many behind the scenes videos featuring few scenes of her actually talking to the camera, but plenty of her singing in the background of other members’ clips.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ history tw ; religious trauma, grooming, homophobia

born to young parents caught up in the wrong scene, she spent a majority of her life raised by her religious grandparents after her mother left her with them one night and never returned for her again. she grew up going to church every sunday, attending a christian private school, and praying at every meal and each night before bed. in fact, she first discovered her love for singing in church, joining the choir as soon as she could.

she quickly rose to the top of the pedestal in the choir, her talent and ambitions making her stand out amongst the crowd and earned her solo after solo. while she could do it on her own, she also had the help of one of the lead choir directors, a middle aged man in the church community. he called her special and often offered her “special lessons” disguising his grooming her. his special treatment of her became obvious to the rest of the choir and she earned her fair share of hatred from her fellow members.

as long as she could remember, seolah was infatuated by another girl in the choir who was two years older than her. she was beautiful and talented and was the star of the show. as she climbed the ranks, the two were constantly pit against each other in competition. however, they managed to become close, confiding in each other, and forming a friendship despite the imposed competition between them. but when seolah finally confided in her the abuse that she was facing at the hands of the director, the older girl felt misplaced jealousy, having been groomed the same way by the same man. the girl told the church that seolah had kissed her after practice one day, she was effectively kicked from the choir and ostracized by the church.

her grandparents were both mortified and livid at the news. after some convincing that it was all a lie, they eventually believed seolah, but they became even stricter afterwards. she attended church nearly everyday and was frequently made to attend confessional.

she auditioned for rainbow ent in secret after receiving a card from a scout at one of the choir’s holiday recitals just before she was kicked out. she made the 2 hour trip by train, telling her grandparents she was attending a church volunteer trip. when she was accepted, she was both overjoyed and terrified to finally break the news to her grandparents. as she predicted, they were incredibly angry when she brought it up with them. they hated the idol lifestyle and all it stood for, beginning even at the name “idol,” and told her they would have nothing to do with it in their home. however, growing sick of living under their iron fist, she took the biggest risk she’s ever taken and chose to pursue being a trainee over her relationship with them.

they still have a complicated relationship even after years of immense success, and have only spoken a few times since she first left. she still attempts to call them on any major religious holidays, but she only sometimes gets an answer. her mother has reached out to her again since a few years after their debut, somewhat attempting to repair her role in her life, however every time she asks for money it is set back once more.

although she’s endured a rough road in regards to her faith and her family, the family she has built with her group members and her friends have filled much of the hole in her heart. she has slowly come to terms with her sexuality over the years with the help of her found family and her current girlfriend, sunnie. despite what she’s been through, she wouldn’t give up her life now and all of the people she has come to love for the world.

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nghtchngs · 3 months

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🪄๋࣭ ⭑☾˖⋆ ( victoria moroles, demiwoman, she/they ) — 🎬 just announced, VALENTINA AYALA has been cast as ALEX RUSSO in the upcoming WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE reboot. the twenty-six year old is trending as people are debating if the coffee with too much creamer, leather jackets, always sleeping in, one headphone in at all times, late night drives, & always knowing the best food spots that they are known for is enough to make them as good as original. a quick google search shows that their fans call them honest, but internet trolls think they’re more careless. i guess their newest interview for variety where they talk about the screenplays they’ve written will let people to know them better.

+ pinterest . + playlist.

BASICS:

full name: valentina milagro ayala nicknames: vale, val, tina, mili gender: demiwoman pronouns: she/they sexuality: gay gay lesbian gay age: twenty-six date & place of birth: december 28 in el monte, ca faceclaim: victoria moroles character inspo: ahsoka tano (star wars), beca mitchell (pitch perfect), america chavez (marvel comics), taissa turner (yellowjackets), leah clearwater (twilight)

BULLET POINTS:

— acting for valentina started young — what was a passing comment to her mother about wanting to mimic the children on their tv turned into various commercials, small projects, & student films to bulk her resume up. — soon enough she was scouted by disney, & would become a familiar face in all things disney by age 12. — the more money valentina made the less fun acting became ; more of a job and less of a hobby, they were now the main breadwinner for their family. the mortgage payments for their new house depended on her, a happy christmas was a result of a good holiday paycheck, & the newfound stability the ayala family never had rest on valentina’s shoulders. — disney paid well, but it stifled her, in more ways than just creatively. her teen years were spent going through the throes of gender & sexuality confusion, and by the time valentina decided she wasn’t quite a girl and definitely did not like boys, her image was decided for her — and a demigirl lesbian did not fit into that. — this caused her to retreat into herself, walls building up in an attempt to push away what she didn’t want to come to terms with. while they’re much more sure of themselves now, valentina still holds onto those walls tightly, uncomfortable with being herself. they may be rough around the edges but they’re fiercely protective of those they hold close, and are quite easy to talk to when they’re not in a (unfortunately common) judgmental mood. — while she’s ecstatic to play alex (a formative character in her life), valentina is also ready for her time with disney to be over. more serious roles have garnered valentina more acclaim & respect, and have helped them feel fulfilled as they continue their career. she plans to get more into screenwriting after, thinking that maybe her time would be better spent behind the camera than in front of it.

WANTED CONNECTIONS:

— former beard & current best friend ; someone valentina was pushed to have a pr relationship with before they both realized it was doing more harm than good. ended up as best friends & considered their platonic soulmate and most trusted confidant. — ex (ended on awkward terms) ; someone valentina dated before she came out & was still going through inner turmoil about her sexuality. (probably) ended because of vale’s issues & they are now a sore spot for her that she tries to avoid as often as possible. — roommate ; idk could be cute yktv — childhood friends/long term friendships — fwb — frenemies, enemies, other exs — flirtationships (might be one sided idk her way of flirting is being kinda mean) — literally anything ever this is all just me throwing play doh at a wall

PAST ROLES:

— maya hart in girl meets world — mal in descendants — sydney novak in i am not okay with this — mari in yellowjackets — christine in to all the boys i loved before

#2000s.intro #drops this and runs

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lennonleigh · 3 months

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character name: lennon leigh reid

birthday: september 19th, 1999

gender / pronouns: cis woman, she/her

hometown: central park south, new york city

sexual orientation: bisexual / biromantic

residential area: starlight cove

occupation: fashion designer, founder of lenlei

length of time in starlight oaks: two months

positive traits: ambitious, resourceful, hardworking

negative traits: restless, impatient, stubborn

faceclaim: kaia gerber

BIOGRAPHY —

lennon was brought into a life of privilege, born to actor robert reid and celebrity makeup artist alissa taylor. her parents never married and just a year after the birth of their daughter, they separated. the majority of her childhood was spent in new york city with her mother, while the other half she spent on movie sets with her father in los angeles. her bicoastal lifestyle was something she adjusted to fairly easily but she would always consider new york her home, no matter how much she loved the serenity of the beach and being close to the water.

it was during the long hours spent with her mother at photoshoots and fashion weeks, where lennon got to observe what would become her passion in life. watching models on the runway, on and off camera, actresses on the red carpet, adorned in the most beautiful and bizarre creations, she found herself immersed in the world of fashion. as a teenager, she began to sketch, creating a portfolio of different designs that would become the first of many. she also scrapbooked as part of her research, collecting magazines and journals, textiles, fabrics. on her sixteenth birthday, lennon only asked for one present: a sewing machine.

from sophomore year until senior year of high school, lennon designed every costume for the theatre club, as well as made custom home and away uniforms for the cheer squad. every second of her time that she wasn't studying, she was sewing, crafting, creating. although she had several opportunities to meet designers, fashion icons and moguls in the industry, lennon wanted to remain anonymous. her status as the daughter of robert reid was never the factor she wanted to be the reason for her success, no matter how easy it could have been for her. after high school, she applied to the fashion institute of technology, where she was accepted and welcomed instantly. she couldn't escape nepotism entirely, no matter how much she wished she could.

in those formative years, lennon learned so much, not just about the fashion industry but about herself. she fell in love with a girl, her newfound sexuality leading to a brand new burst of creative expression. the relationship was short-lived however, her lover leaving to study abroad and choosing to stay there. it was also her first taste of heartbreak which she soon learned had the ability to fuel a whole other kind of productivity and creativity. after graduating, lennon wanted to jump into the world of work and so, she acquired the help of her mom, the owner of her own cosmetic company, to help her launch her first business venture.

lennon worked quietly behind the scenes for a year after she graduated, bringing 'lenlei' to life on the pages of a new portfolio that she kept close to her heart, building her brand from the ground up. during this time, she also got the opportunity to shadow jacqueline durran on the set of barbie. it was a dream come true. one that she admittedly had her father to thank for. lennon rarely sought his help but there was no way she could pass up on the experience of a lifetime. while working with jacqueline, lennon kept a close eye on one of her other heroes in the industry, amara washington. a woman whose work she'd followed closely since she was fifteen years old.

she respected amara not just for her work ethic but for being one of the most impactful, influential female entrepreneurs of her generation. ororo was a brand that featured in her scrapbooks as a teenager and when amara made the move to new york city, lennon didn't ever miss a runway show. the young designer's self named brand lenlei was crafted with a similar vision to those who'd come before her, with an added twist and a slight risk --- she wanted it to be a success but for it to be inclusive and accessible to all. casual wear, androgynous fashion, for women, men and nonbinary individuals. lenlei represented originality, authenticity and comfort. launched online in 2023, her range sold out and lennon earned a spot in forbes' 30 under 30.

fast forward to the present day, lennon's move to starlight oaks, (amara washington's very own hometown) was led by the success of her growing company. signing a contract with an independent clothing store, above the clouds, proved to be a new and exciting step forward. with the presence of amara in town, she's also hoping for the opportunity to learn from her in a setting that's more relaxed, away from the bustling city lights that they're used to. securing a retail space to sell her clothing line while working behind the scenes to bring her own boutique to life, lennon is hopeful that the small town will unlock bigger dreams, new hopes and fresh beginnings.

POTENTIAL CONNECTIONS —

coming soon !

#( character intro : lennon leigh reid. )#( pinned post. )#starlight.intro

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acefiree · 4 months

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𝗯𝗮𝘆! 𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 | breath mint

Raphael ✷ Grayson ( 16+ ) MASTERLIST

RAMBLES: about to ramble so you can skip this if you want! this is a chapter from my fic I wrote following the timeline of the movies, and since I'm going through and editing the book, I wanted to share some of my favorite parts from the fic on my tumblr, so spoilers??

anyyywhoo I'm also posting chaps that I was going to trash, but instead, I decided to make them into reader inserts and age up the characters. so if you see that and connect the dots, you get a cookie :)

this is about my OC and April meeting the brothers and it will forever be in my heart bc I wrote this when I was sixteen, so there will be major cringe ahead.

also, the characters are their respective age in this to match the movie.

this is not a reader insert! and, keep in mind I WAS A FETUS writing this so my choice of faceclaim was silly and it was like 2017 when I wrote this.

*cough* sabrina carpenter *cough*

TO EXPECT: ocs, 2014! movie, SFW, and a potty mouth character, cringes of my very first fic.

disclaimer: i do NOT own tmnt or the movie scenes, just my ocs and what i write for them :)

I WAS VERY TEMPTED to punch myself in the face for being so damn stupid.

Who in their right mind leaves a flash on when trying to take a discrete photo?

Grayson fucking O'Neil apparently.

All four figures immediately froze, the flash lighting up the dark rooftop for only a second. It was painfully obvious I had taken a picture. My hands began to sweat as my heart started to speed up. I could hear the shadow figures whispering again, and this time I had a really good feeling it wasn't about their previous victory.

"What was that?"

"It's a camera flash."

"We know it's a camera flash."

"Who's behind the camera flash?"

There was a light shove that came from my leg, and I knew it was April probably wondering what was going on. But I didn't dare move.

Maybe if I just pretended that I wasn't here, they wouldn't see me?

"By my calculations, it's two girls,"

Two?! How can he see us both?!

"Now we gotta kill them..."

I nearly let go of the ladder at that, my stomach churning. Shit. Were they really going to kill us over a freaking picture? Who in the hell are these guys? American assassins?

"What?!"

"With kindness!"

"Give them some flowers, earn their trust."

"I got this."

"Raph, no, no, no! She has glasses!"

I had started to climb down now, but it didn't look like I was going anywhere – April was blocking my path.

I had to bite my lip to keep myself from shouting at her. I wondered if a little kick to the face would make her move. I thought about it for a good second, though I refrained from doing so – but damn, did I want to.

I opened my mouth, ready to tell her to move her ass, but a hard heavy chain was suddenly around my midsection. My eyes widened in shock, and I glanced down. "What—" with a harsh jerk and a very loud squeal from my lips, I was suddenly air-born.

My body hit the roof with a harsh thump, and I rolled, somehow shielding my head and camera at the same time. Pain shot up my arm when I landed on my wrist, the limb catching the brunt of my fall. When I finally had control over my own body again, I weakly sat up and clenched my teeth, holding my now throbbing wrist to my chest.

"What the hell is wrong with you?! That fucking hurt you asshole!" I shouted into the dark, my pain causing my temper to flare which controlled my tongue. I swear I could hear a giggle come from the dark.

I didn't give a damn who these guys were, they didn't have to yank me around like that. Unable to stop the aggravated huff that left my lips, I allowed my gaze to drop down to my camera as I checked it over, only to let out a relieved breath when I saw it was perfectly fine.

Yea, but freakin' my wrist isn't.

My eyes drifted back to my wrist as more annoyed grumbles came from my lips. A burning sensation came from my joint as I rotated the limb. I didn't think it was broken, but knew I it was going to bruise. I was so focused on my arm that I didn't notice when April climbed up the ladder and ran over to me. She was quick to notice how I was nursing my arm and she grabbed it tenderly, facing the inner part of my wrist up. She cringed at the flamed skin.

Damn. This was definitely going to start bruising soon. I could already see a red tint forming just below the junction of my thumb that would soon turn purple.

"Are you okay?"

I so badly wanted to snap back a sarcastic remark, but when my gaze locked with hers, my words seemed to leave me. I eased my arm away, staring up at her. I could see the fear in her eyes and that made the situation more real.

I was just pulled through the air like a fucking rag doll, of course I'm not okay!

But I didn't say that.

"I think so—"

A harsh thump, followed by a rough grunt, suddenly came from behind me and a shaky breath slipped through April's lips as she tilted her head back, her eyes growing when her gaze locked onto someone, or something, behind me.

By the look on April's face, I really didn't want to turn to see what made her suddenly go pale. Something in my gut told me not to turn around, to just fall out and play dead – I wanted to ask who was standing there so I didn't have to look.

Then I remembered this asshole was the one that just yanked me from the ladder. It only took two seconds of me mentally preparing myself before I found enough courage to turn around and give this man a piece of my mind on how he shouldn't yank little people around, just so he could feel superior.

I quickly turned, but came to a jerking stop when my nose brushed against a...knee. My eyes crossed as I stared at the limb, and the first thing I noticed was how...green...it was green?

Momentarily forgetting my previous anger and my throbbing wrist, I shuffled back on my butt, my head tilting up to see who the large ass knee belonged to. My eyes bugged like a Looney Tunes character as I assessed the figure towering over me.

Holy fucking shit.

Green eyes clashed with Grey as a man-like turtle glared down at me. I had to blink a few times to make sure I wasn't seeing things. Upon seeing the look on my face, his lips curled back over his teeth into a snarl and I watched as his eyes scanned over my persons for a second, as if looking for something.

I instantly thought of my camera and instinctively grabbed it to my chest. That action had him narrowing his gaze on the device and that's when I knew what he wanted.

There were no words being said as me and my sister sat frozen in our spots. My sister looked about ready to piss herself, while I was trying my best to control my breathing and the pace of my heart. I suddenly felt warm and clammy and my heart was fluttering in an odd rhythm in my chest.

Time seemed non-existent as I took in this creature's appearance, noting the blood-red mask wrapped around the upper part of his head, kind of looking like a du-rag. The red fabric seemed like a good fashion choice, seeing that he had a very pissed-off look on his face at the moment. My gaze swept over the large turtle man, taking in all the gear he was wearing.

There was a thick leather strap stretched across, what I think was, his chest as it disappeared over the lip of his shell. And on his waist was an old-looking strap playing as a belt as it held up his odd-looking pants. My eyes then drifted to his arms, which were literally the size of my head. There was a red band tied around his bicep, stretching as the muscle moved.

This turtle man was ripped, and I honestly wanted to ask what type of steroids he took, because holy shit he was built like a miniature Hulk.

He rumbled lowly, his nostrils flaring as I snapped my eyes back to his own. I could tell he noticed my little observation, and he didn't hide the fact he didn't like it.

"Give me the camera,"

I had to pause at the sound of his voice, my face shifting gradually when I realized he could speak English. His voice was low and raspy like he was a heavy smoker and all his years of smoking finally caught up to him – I don't know what I was expecting the turtle man to sound like, but it definitely wasn't that.

April helped me stand, wrapping her arms around my waist protectively as we stared at him wide-eyed. I could feel her hands shaking against my waist, causing a spark of protectiveness to wash over me. There was a bead of sweat forming on my forehead as my knees wabbled.

"Ooh, look, he's doing his Batman voice," A voice snorted from behind the red-clad turtle, voice lowering to mock him.

"They're so hot, I can feel my shell tightening," A higher-pitched voice strained, prompting me to raise an eyebrow.

Excuse me?

I tried to shift my gaze around the red-clad turtle in front of me, wanting to see who was talking, but his big ass shell was blocking my view.

The red-banded turtle rolled his jaded eyes and turned to look back over his shoulder, or more like his shell. "We can hear you," He growled.

I tensed more as he turned back to us, his eyes locking me again in as he unsheathed something from both sides of his abdomen and I looked down.

Recognition flashed in my gaze as I stared at the familiar fork-like daggers.

So he was the one I saw that night? The shadow man? Holy shit! This is all starting to make sense—

I nearly jerked back when he placed one of the daggers under my chin, his jaw ticking as my breath quickened.

Jesus, what is his problem? My heart started to sporadically flutter faster as a twinge of fear settled in my stomach, afraid he might nick my skin with the sharp object.

He took a small step closer to me, having to slouch over drastically so he could get in my face. I could tell this was his way to intimidate me, and I would be lying if I said it wasn't working. His hot breath tickled my face, causing a light scrunch on my nose to form as I leaned back and tucked my chin toward my chest, promptly showing a double chin.

I was tempted to head-butt this turtle if he got any closer to me. Did this dude know anything about personal space? Because damn, he was so close, if I wanted to, I could boop him on the nose.

All witty remarks seemed to leave me as my brain was still trying to understand what I was seeing. So, panicking, I said the first thing that came to mind.

"Dude, you need a breath mint,"

As soon as the words left my mouth, Red's non-existent brows shot up in shock, as if my words had slapped him in the face. There was a loud boisterous laugh that came from behind him, which had the red turtle quickly recovering from his shock when he realized what I said.

He sharpened his harsh glare down at me, looking somewhat offended. "Wha—why I outta—" He lifted my chin higher with the dagger, "If you don't give me the camera, I'm gonna—"

"You're gonna what? Poke us to death with your little forks? Ooh, I'm shivering." I said before adding, "And by the way, you sound nothing like Batman – if anything, you sound constipated. Don't disrespect Bruce Wayne like that."

I don't know if it was the fall I took, or the amount of cake I ate tonight. But I found myself knocking my uninjured arm against his to move the dagger out of my space. I knew running my mouth was probably going to get me hurt, but this turtle was rude as hell. And that shit wasn't about to fly with me.

I could feel April's eyes glaring at me, most likely wishing I would shut up.

A loud snort came from behind the red turtle again, followed by a frenzy of giggles. If he was mad before, he was defiantly livid now. His face started to change, and if he could blush, I was certain his cheeks would be the color of his mask.

He cracked open his mouth to speak again, but a loud voice cut him off.

"Enough!" I stepped back and watched as another turtle flipped over us, landing on the other side of the rooftop – this one sporting a blue mask.

What's up with the multi-colored masks? Are they color-coded turtles or something? Was I missing the punch line?

My eyes flickered to the two weapons he gripped in his large hands tightly, and I instantly recognized them to be Katana's. He glanced down, his face stern as he assessed the three of us. I suddenly felt really small under his gaze, as if I were a child being scolded.

I watched as he twisted his wrists, expertly spinning his weapons before lifting his arms and sliding them onto the back of his shell, crossing them into a large 'X'.

"Back off, Raph." He ordered, looking over to the turtle in red.

So rude turt has a name? I thought before looking back at Blue.

The red turtle, Raph, let out an aggravated growl as he stepped back and moved away. "I only saw Batman once!—she made fun of my voice and said I needed a mint." He whispered the last part to himself, but I heard him perfectly.

"Ladies, hello. I apologize." The blue-clad turtle said coolly, effortlessly dropping from the edge in one step as he moved in front of us. "My colleague here forgot to say please – so would you please hand over the camera?"

At this point, he was standing but a few feet away. His eyes, which were the brightest blue I had ever seen, glanced down at the camera hanging from my neck before looking back up at my face, his mask shifting as he lifted a non-existent brow. This turtle seemed a lot calmer than the first, but that didn't make me trust him in the slightest.

The scenario good cop, bad cop coming to mind.

I instinctively grasped my sister's hand, tugging her closer to me as I backed away, refusing to give up my beloved camera in fear that they might smash it.

Blue started to take a few steps closer when he noticed us backing away, and I was quick to stop him by throwing my finger in his face. "Ah, Ah! No! You stay."

His face looked rather shocked for a moment at my boldness, and I was surprised when he actually came to a stop. He blinked a few times as if he couldn't believe I just told him to stay put like a dog. I took this as my chance to turn, pulling on April so we could find an escape—

My body jolted to a stop when we came face to face with another turtle – this one in orange.

Holy shit! Are they fucking multiplying?!

April gasped and sprung back, letting me go in the process. My arm flew up out of instinct, not expecting him to be so close. Just before I could make contact and hit him for being in my personal bubble, the Orange-clad turtle was quick to catch me by the wrist, shocking the literal hell out of me.

"Whoa, dudette! chill, it's just a mask. See? Don't freak out—right?" He used his other hand to take off his mask, dangling the fabric in my face with a boyish smile on his face.

One of my brows quirk of its own accord as I tensely glimpse at his massive hand that was wrapped around my small wrist, noting he only has three fucking fingers. He saw the look on my face, a sheepish grin morphing on his lips as he quickly let go.

At the rate my breathing was going, I began to feel a little lightheaded, my heart still fluttering in my chest as my legs became shakier. Oh no. I blinked a few times as the turtle in front of me became blurry. When I blinked again, the red turtle was suddenly standing by the orange one, both watching me with strange looks on their faces as I took a stumbling step back.

Shit, I don't feel good.

"Ray?" April's voice seemed far away, though I knew she was literally right behind me.

Just as I began to collapse, a pair of large hands caught me, and my body went limp.

"Oh, that went well."

"BREATHING STEADY. Blood pressure stabilizing." Someone said as a bright beam shined in my eyes.

My thoughts were jumbled the second I could make out multiple green faces hovering over me.

"Why are we still here playing doctor?" A deeper voice growled, sounding annoyed.

"Because, other than her injured wrist—which you caused—She might have a head injury."

"Uh, correction, she's a hot chick who may have a head injury. Which makes it our civic duty—"

"Would you knock it off."

I jerked away when a green hand was suddenly in my face, three fingers snapping. I blinked a few times as I squinted my eyes at the turtle. He was wearing a pair of goggles and was wearing a purple mask. When he noticed I was conscious enough, he quickly moved out of my space, allowing me to sit up.

"Tink, are you okay?"

I felt instant comfort from the nickname and glanced over to see my sister staring at me with concern, her hand lightly pressed against my knee. I nodded my eyes blinking a few more times as I noticed my vision was still impaired. My hands snap to my face, panic washing over me when I realize my glasses are gone.

The urge to pull a Velma and shout 'My glasses!' hit me as I started to look around for them. Before I could promptly start freaking the hell out, April tapped my shoulder and I felt instant relief when she pulled them out and placed them on my face for me. I gave her a grateful nod, adjusting them before I turned my attention to the four turtles watching us.

I can't believe I passed out.

I twisted my lips, rubbing my hurt wrist while my eyes drifted to each turtle, taking them in as I stood to my feet with the help of my sister.

"What are you?" April asked, also looking at them.

The blue-clad turtle glanced at the others before moving forward slightly. "Well, Miss, uh, we're ninjas." He leaned the top part of his body forward, resting his fist into the palm of his hand and bowing his head at us respectively.

I found myself actually wanting to smile at his actions.

The urge to smile quickly disappeared as soon as the red brute, who I remember being called Raph, spoke up, his eyes set in a hard glare as he stared at us "We're mutants."

The purple one, which I noticed was the tallest out of all of them, looked at us, his goggles gone and replaced with glasses. "Well, technically we're turtles."

"Oh, and we're teenagers! But we can still have...adult conversations." The Orange-clad turtle says, wiggling his fingers and winking at us.

I let out a sound of surprise, gaining their attention. "No, I am a teenager." I gestured to myself with both hands, my eyes wide as I looked back at them incredulously. "Like, honestly, you look like grown-ass men — I mean turtles..."

"You're a teenager?!" The orange banded one whispered in shocked wonder as he approached me, bending and placing his hands on his knees as he got in my face like he was analyzing a rare specimen. I took a step back and gave him a look as he muttered, "But...you're so tiny,"

I made a face at his words, "I'm not that short! I'm a pretty normal height for a girl..."

The purple-wielding turtle let out an amused snort, prompting us to look at him now. "Actually, you seem to be around 5'2 and the normal height for a human female is—"

"Can we please get back on topic guys? We don't have time to share facts and height charts." Blue interrupted us, making me turn to him with a lifted brow.

I promise, I tried to stop my eyes from rolling, I really did, but they had a mind of their own. "Bossy ass," I muttered under my breath.

His eyes snapped to me, and I instantly knew he heard what I said, causing me to shoot him an innocent smile in return.

April, who was still hung up on their existence stepped forward to butt in, "Wait, So, you're—ninja, mutant, turtle, teenagers?" she questioned, sounding slightly ridiculous with how she worded it.

My lips pursed and I shook my head, "That sounds silly—" I glanced at April disappointed, "Why not Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? It has a better ring to it."

"Agreed," The one in purple said, causing me to look back at him with a smile.

I glanced at all of them again, curiosity shining in my eyes as I began to wonder how this even happened. It's not every day you run into humanoid turtles who can speak perfect English. There has to be more to this.

My eyes stopped on Raph, catching the glare he was giving as he watched me look around at them. I lifted a brow, and his expression only grew more annoyed. "They're lookin' at us like we're freaks." He suddenly spat, pointing his fork dagger at me.

Seriously, what is this turtle's malfunction? He seemed to be the only one with a thorn in his side and it was starting to piss me off.

"I bet that's why you took our picture, wasn't it? To show your friends" He accused as he pointed at me again, a smug look mixing with his irritated one. "That is, if ya' have friends."

My mouth dropped in shock at his dig at my social life. Who did this turtle think he was? He was being such an ass, and for what?

"Look here 'Mr.Batman'—" I decreased my voice into a mocking tone, trying to mimic the baritone voice he did earlier, "When it comes to disrespect, I'm usually open-minded, but you've been a real ass tonight, so I'm about to be open-handed and smack the shit outta you!" I sass back before somewhat shouting, "Don't play with me!"

Crickets. There's a distinct pause as all four turtles look comically baffled at my little outburst. They were probably wondering how much damage a small girl like me could do to a six-foot mutant turtle, but I swear if he said another rude ass thing to me, they will all find out.

Suddenly, a very boyish laugh filled the tense atmosphere and I swung my gaze over to the orange-clad turtle, watching as he clutched his stomach from laughing so hard.

"Dudes I think I just fell in love – Raph she just put you in your place bro!"

The red-banded turtle shot the other one a sharp glare, his lip curling as he yanked his intense gaze back in my direction. I took a tiny step back as the hothead dropped down from the ledge he was perched on, his green eyes burning into my own. I noticed his scarred lip quirk into a smirk when he saw me step back. Something in his hand caught my attention, so I looked down and froze upon seeing my camera dangling in his grasp.

"Looking for this?" He taunted, his smirk growing as he observed the shocked expression on my face.

I quickly patted down my body, as if I wasn't looking at my camera. What the hell?! My mouth formed a tight line as he got closer to me, my head having to tilt back so I could stare him directly in the eyes.

Don't show fear, be the bad bitch you know you are.

"I swear, if you break my camera, I'll monkey jump your ass!"

He gave me a challenging look in return, "Bring it, Trouble," His gaze fell from my face and traveled over my body, sizing me up. "I can take ya."

I ignored the nickname as the annoyance I felt grew, "I don't know the anatomy of a mutant turtle, but I'm so close to kicking you in the balls if you don't back the fuck up!" I growled, jabbing a finger in his shell-covered chest.

It's been I while since I've gotten this upset, usually I was chill. But this turtle seemed like he really enjoyed pressing my buttons.

For a moment I could have sworn fear flashed in his eyes when I mentioned kicking him down under. And he seemed to close his stance a little. But before any more words could be shared between us, blue stepped in, moving Raph back.

"How many times do I have to tell you? We don't break things, we fix them. Donnie already wiped the camera, genius – Problem solved, moving on." The blue-clad turtle spoke, his eyes hardening on Raph who now seemed embarrassed by being scolded.

I snapped my head toward the purple turtle, assuming he was the one who messed with my stuff. "You did what?!" My voice squeaked, causing the purple banded turtle to jump and his glasses-covered eyes to round. "Please tell me you didn't wipe everything!"

My whole life was on that damn thing! He better not have erased the memory, I only took one picture!

The purple, Donnie, looked extremely uncomfortable and slightly panicked. He opened his mouth to speak, but the big brute cut him off before he could defend his actions.

"And who put you in charge?" Red rumbled, anger sparking in his green eyes as he turned to face blue.

Now Blue seemed pissed, his chest bumping into Raph's as he matched his aggression. "You know who did." His voice lowers and I find myself taking a small step back.

I had a feeling a fight was about to break out, and I didn't want to be caught in the middle of that.

These guys are really moody.

"Ooh, tension! It's been like thirty whole minutes since you guys had this argument." The orange one butted in with a smile on his face, not seeming fazed by the other turtle's aggressiveness.

"Leonardo, if we want to make it home before Master, we gotta hustle," Donnie spoke up, glancing at his wrist which had a cool-looking watch on it.

For a moment I pause, a sense of familiarity washing over my mind as I thought over that name.

"Leonardo?" I heard April whisper from beside me, causing me to look over at her with a questioning look.

Has she heard of that name before too?

The blue one, Leonardo, turned to me. I kept quiet as he stepped closer and held out my camera for me to take. "Do not say a word about this to anyone," he lowered himself to my height, and even though he was bent over, I still had to look up. "If you do, we will find you." His eyes swayed between me and April for a second, "April and Grayson O'Neil."

He was back to standing his full height; A serious superior look casting in his blue eyes. He turned his head to look at Raph, narrowing his eyes slightly. "We're on the move, Raphael."

"Raphael...?" I murmured this time, my brows pinched together. Where have I heard these damn names before?

A deep rumble followed after I said the name, which caused me to look up. It was Raphael. When we locked eyes, I could see his shoulders tense as he shot me a displeased look. I stared at him for a long moment, trying to read this strange being. He stared back and I could only assume he was doing the same with me.

I could tell he was the most guarded out of the other three, and I was quick to pick up on the fact he seemed insecure about what others thought about his appearance. I would have to remember not to stare if I wanted to stay on his good side. That is, if he even had one.

Like a splash of cold water to the face; Raphael moved away from us, before squaring his shoulders and placing his little bitty weapons back in their holster. He locked eyes with me once more and shot me a pointed glare, the toothpick in his mouth shifting.

Yep, this guy really doesn't like me...Wait, where did the toothpick come from?

"Yeahhh, we'll find you, O'Neil." The orange started doing weird hand gestures as he gradually backed away.

I quirked a brow at how odd and disturbing it sounded.

I jumped a little as he came back quickly, an awkward smile on his face, "I'm sorry, that came across super creepy, okay?" He chuckled nervously, "But we will find you though." He pointed at us, shooting a small wink.

He's weird. I giggled softly.

An award-winning smile broke out on his face as he heard my laugh, looking like a child in a candy shop. He waved me goodbye as he ran after the others who had begun to leave. Leonardo shot him a stern look when he finally caught up, muttering something to him under his breath.

April rushed after them, her phone now out and raised to snap more pictures as they disappeared into the night.

I rolled my eyes before joining her at the edge of the building, smirking to myself.

"It was like fire brah, did you see me back there? She's totally into me, I made her laugh!"

"Shut it, Mikey." I recognized that voice to be Raphaels.

I glanced over at April, my smile spreading somewhat in excitement.

I knew after tonight, that neither of our lives were ever going to be the same.

MASTERLIST

#bayverse tmnt #fanfic writing #bayverse raphael #teenage mutant ninja turtles #bayverse leo #bayverse donnie #bayverse mikey #tmnt bayverse #bayverse raph

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lunarcovehq · 3 months

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Daphne Bishop is a human that currently resides in Celestial Hills and has been a Lunar Cove resident for one day, searching for her undead sister who doesn't want to be found.

ITS THE END OF THE WORLD

GENDER/PRONOUNS: Cis Female, She/Her

DATE OF BIRTH: October 25, 1994

OCCUPATION: Unemployed model

FACECLAIM: Phoebe Tonkin

AS WE KNOW IT, AND I FEEL FINE

SPECIES: Human

COALITION POSITION: Nonmember

WELCOME TO LUNAR COVE, DAPHNE BISHOP

Trigger Warnings: Bad Parenting, Death, Murder, Violence, Divorce, Sexism

“At least she is pretty.” The phrase was so common that Daphne had internalized long before she understood how a backhanded compliment could sting. She was a dreamer as a young girl, a bright fire of passion and hope born with a silver spoon to eat her bladed compliments off of and cashmere to wrap her soft heart in until time would harden the softest parts of her. Daphne learned early that life took without permission and that the bright sunshine of those around her would create a shadow in where she could take her beauty and all her developing sharp edges that were considered less than beautiful and find comfort. Despite being told she had a sharp tongue and that her wit was unsavory Daphne was able to adapt and easily maneuvered her way through a variety of different groups.She was a social chameleon wearing whatever personality suited her at the time. However, rumors did spread- she was passionate, and had a strong sense of what she viewed a justice. In the socially acceptable circles of the opulent elite this fire was seen as defiant behavior, unsavory the sort of girl who could rock the boat In some ways Daphne wanted to change the world for the better, she thought she could make an impact. The rumors were wild- The eldest Bishop girl stole a racehorse set for termination. What happened to that senator? His affair was exposed and his wife left him- how’d anyone find out? The Bishop girl leaked some blurry camera photos. How gauche does she not know her place in this world? Sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong, meddling in things that have nothing to do with her? She’ll never learn. Maybe so, but they could never prove she did anything she was accused of which was how it was meant to be.

Maybe it was the family money, maybe it was her ability to charm nearly anyone, or that she was just pretty to look at with her round expressive eyes and coquettish pout, but Daphne was able to maneuver around the rumors only catching fall out behind closed doors. She spent her time crafting her skills- her beauty. She knew she was never going to get scholarships based on her grades and if she wanted to get the hell out of Darien was going to have to take this pretty girl schtich as far as it would. A beauty pageant queen smiling on stage, performing talents like ballet, flower arranging, poetry, and one unfortunate baton twirling incident that in hindsight could have gone far worse. She was a natural, played a crowd like an instrument, and made a name for herself in the community as the Beauty Queen was impossible to beat. On her way to Miss Teen USA Daphne had amassed several titles that came with their varied awards. She was looking towards her exit as it neared.

However, things went terribly amiss when she was banned from further participation after she and another contestant had got into a fight when she overheard the girl spreading a particularly nasty rumor and bragging about stealing her crown. Daphne said she could have it but she’d be accepting it with a black eye. When Daphne didn’t take the stage rumors ran wild- drug problem, teen pregnancy, illiteracy! She burdened them all and took the disappointment from her parents without much fight but all the while she was looking for an escape route. Daphne barely graduated high school and with no plans for college, she was sure she would be stuck in Darien forever. Working the same jobs as her parents, walking the same path where she was simply unwanted.

However, a few weeks into eighteen her ticket out showed up with a smile and charm and Daphne let him whisk her away. He put a ring on her finger and the two eloped in Vegas. She liked him, he was fun- maybe that was good enough. She was thankful he got her out of Darien, but in the end, he had a gambling problem and Daphne was never contented with accepting less than she deserved. At barely nineteen she left the man who had gotten her out of Gritch-hiked to Los Angeles where she took a job waitressing at a celebrity hot spot bar where she was scouted with beer spilled on her shirt and her hair piled in an unbrushed knot on the top of her head. Daphne took the offer; after all at least she was pretty.

Modeling opened so many doors and came with a host of problems. Living with a bunch of girls all vying for the same big break was a different kind of hell that tested her patience daily. Daphne stayed out as much as she could surfing from lover to lover finding something to love about each of them. Maybe if she had worked a little harder she would have found success sooner but Daphne had too much fun stepping into a scene once close to her. Backstage at concerts, after parties with actors and other people, she likely would have never met waitressing, or if she had they wouldn’t have taken her seriously.

It was then at twenty-one Daphne met her second husband, a Hollywood photographer who made her his muse and pushed her into Stardom. She was suddenly flown to Fashion Week Paris and was not long after gracing the cover of Vogue. However, her crumbling second marriage was even more fuel for the fire under her name as her photographer husband seemed to struggle with jealousy and it wasn’t long until they were divorced and Daphne was playing muse to fashion house Iris Van Herpen. She loved this world, she loved the other models, the artsy types and dreamers who introduced her to a world she devoured piece by piece.

Life was charmed and she felt like she belonged and by the time she was twenty-five years old Daphne had thought she found her place in the world. She belonged in this eclectic and fast-moving world, thrived in it, and couldn’t imagine anything better. Until she met her third husband and perhaps the only one she ever loved more than she loved herself. A man from a family with massive generational wealth and heavy political ties he was a caliber above everyone else she had ever dated and as a result, she was seen as not good enough for him. The relationship was quite the scandal- no more scandalous than their wedding that was featured in Vogue magazine. An intimate that was by far the dreamiest thing Daphne had ever been a part of- her vows were a poem she wrote and read for him, meaning every word. She didn’t let the gossip stop her from loving her husband. They seemed the odd pair, her eclectic taste and unpredictable antics compared to his grace and opulent charm didn’t sound like it would work, but they were madly in love. Burning bright and hot. However, that was the thing about fiery relationships they tend to burn out faster than the rest.

The marriage hit rocky times when a fellow model found herself involved in shady situations and rather than minding her business Daphne inserted herself searching for justice and in turn putting herself in compromised situations. A habit she had gotten herself into and did not seem to sway away from despite how it worried her husband. She wanted to assure him, bring him peace but there was so much injustice in the world she had made her own, voices smothered out and Daphne had quickly made a reputation for herself as a woman who blazed trails and shook things up unapologetically. Things were tough, but when Daphne was given the gut-wrenching news that her little sister had been likely murdered her entire life fell apart. The answers she got were not enough, something was not right. There was no body and if there was no body Daphne could not believe it. Month by month things unraveled and the rumors of divorce became more and more prevalent as Daphne became more distant and consumed by her sister’s death. The marriage was over the day she left the signed papers bedside and left the city behind to chase down answers to what had happened to her sister. The police knew nothing so Daphne hired a private detective and before she knew it she was renting a place in a town she never would have considered before her sister’s death.

#celestial hills #Daphne Bishop #phoebe tonkin #all #taken human #nonmember human

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alesolcno · 6 months

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❝ no story i could weave would have ended like this, no way ❞

Age: 31

Gender & Pronouns: cis female & she/her

Neighborhood: downtown

Occupation: professional photographer

Two positive traits: Innovative & resilient

Two negative traits: Faithless & guarded

Length of time in Providence Peak: 1 year

Faceclaim: Melissa Barrera

string pinning connections to a wall in her apartment, jeans and boots, empty coke zero cans scattered about, the tenacity of a noveled hero detective, a calendar full of booked weekends, camera equipment covering the dinning room table

trigger warnings: drug use mentions, homophobia, disappearance/missing person

Growing up in Scottsdale, Arizona should have and would have been a peaceful life if it hadn't been for Alejandra and Mariana’s parents' chaotic and sometimes toxic relationship. The Solano’s had emigrated from Monterrey, Mexico in their early twenties with the hopes of making it big in The Land of Opportunities but had subsequently fallen short in every possible way. They’d gotten in their own way with their mutual obsession for one another leading to too many squabbles and jealousies that had stolen them from progression. Stuck in their ways, then having not one but eventually two daughters left them little time for education and programs that would give them the leg up that they’d needed. Instead they were each stuck working multiple jobs to support a small family.

Although Scottsdale was a relatively large city it had always felt stuffy, perhaps even a little close minded for the youngest Solano. Alejandra was adventurous and took the freedoms being born first generation American had offered her. The first time she looked at other girls in a way the Catholic upbringing and most of Scottsdale wouldn’t really approve of, Ale learned a hard lesson about being herself and staying true to that. But also that ideals didn’t often equate to how society operated. So, as a teenager her struggles with who she was and how she was expected to be had put drugs in her system as a means to cope. She’d take off with her older sister, Mariana, and friends to Las Vegas where they’d party and get up to no good. Like plenty of teenagers just trying to figure life out.

It was the love affair with another girl that eventually sent Alejandra running from her hometown and to the much more liberal Southern California. Nothing hurt more than finding love for the first time but also being forced to keep it a secret and act as though the one you love was only just a friend in the gaze of others. The move and rush away from Arizona was also in pursuit of a dream. Since Ale was little she’d been drawn to photography and took every class she could that public schools offered and even entered competitions, sometimes even winning a few local ones. At 18, the nighttime gig of working as a stripper afforded Ale to attend film school so that she was able to learn filmography on top of the work she’d done to become a professional photographer. The dream was to do both, to be behind the camera in movies and television while also featuring on the glossy pages of important print. If she could have her photos framed on walls of galleries or people’s homes then she would believe she’d made it.

Life as a young adult in Los Angeles was wild. It was thrilling and heartbreaking. Mostly, it was everything Ale needed because not only did she get to soar and find her dream in a career but the mistakes along the way taught her a lot. No matter how many times she got burned by love it only seemed to free the young woman further. After film school Ale was able to pick up work on a few shows meant for the silver screen or streaming. Her career as a professional photographer filled out a beautiful portfolio and both were abled her to step away from her nighttime dancing gig. One of her favorite things to shoot were weddings, not only because of the money she was able to make but being a part of them even as a background piece gave Ale hope that she’d one day be that happy in-love.

As it normally went, when life was going too good and the high was at its biggest peak, that was when the most dramatic drop took place. Just over eighteen months ago, Mariana seemed to disappear. Texts and calls went unanswered and unreturned, not just for hours or days, which was unusual for the sisters, but for weeks. When it continued on for months, Ale really began to dive into the whereabouts of her sister and became determined to find her and figure out what went wrong. The last location that Ale had been aware of Mari being was Providence Peak, Colorado, so she packed up her life and made the move after dropping everything in Southern California. Most of her initial search and poking around town led to nothing, no answers, but something eerie was in its place. The realization that she would be in town for some time, at least until she was pointed in another direction, Ale found herself an apartment downtown. She found a wedding planner with a brilliant booming business and took on a job as a wedding photographer. In the year that followed, she’d grown closer to her boss and made some connections through town but hadn’t gotten anywhere near a resolution when it came to Mariana Solano.

#providence.intro #introduction.#biography.#character study.

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ginger-grimm · 1 year

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I posted 1,862 times in 2022

917 posts created (49%)

945 posts reblogged (51%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@connietheecunning

@richitozier

@waterloou

@veetlegeuse

@come-along-pond

I tagged 1,642 of my posts in 2022

Only 12% of my posts had no tags

#answered - 402 posts

#anna says things sometimes - 263 posts

#ocappreciation - 210 posts

#ocapp - 209 posts

#thank you sm! - 65 posts

#oc: marlow stilinski - 62 posts

#oc: eleanor lockwood - 62 posts

#teen wolf oc - 57 posts

#made for me - 55 posts

#not my oc - 43 posts

Longest Tag: 135 characters

#i have at least 20 on going projects at all times and never start anything and just watch youtube and old episodes of cold case instead

My Top Posts in 2022:

CONNIE CUNNINGHAM in SAVE A PRAYER

Connie Cunningham is nothing if not predictable. Always on time to work at the record store located across Family Video, keeping her 4.0 GPA in High School, attending church service every Sunday morning.

Except, starting in her Senior Year, Connie becomes more and more unpredictable. When she isn't shielding her twin sister Chrissy from her mothers fat shaming, or trying to keep the store running smoothly while her manager is away, she's sneaking off into the woods to hook up with Eddie Munson

But she has bigger secrets. And when her sister is found horribly mutilated at her boyfriend's house, Connie realizes her secrets might be the death of her.

TAGGING: @waterloou @firsthorror @eddysocs @ocs-supporting-ocs @foxesandmagic @veetlegeuse @decennia @hiddenqveendom @arrthurpendragon @luucypevensie @richitozier @noratilney @jvstjewels @oneirataxia-girl

57 notes - Posted May 30, 2022

I swear on every procedural crime show there needs to be at least one older gentleman who's been divorced like ten times

64 notes - Posted January 11, 2022

See the full post

67 notes - Posted June 5, 2022

New ask game: Send me 📸 + OC and I will share 1-6 pics that they have in their camera roll

83 notes - Posted January 2, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

If ya’ll could not expect people to know all the celebrity scandals and dramas out there that would be just peachy. There is a way to make someone aware of a bad thing a celebrity has done without calling them vicious names or accusing them of being a r*pe supporter or racist or whatnot. You may not believe this, but there are people in the world who genuinely might not know what celebrities do at all times, when they scout for faceclaims for characters they might not go through their entire history. It’s absolutely stupid to treat people like they’re all-knowing beings. If you’re genuinely that in tune with all-things celeb gossip and scandals, good for you, you seem to have plenty of time on your hands, but leave other people out of that shit.

You have zero clue what the person behind that screen has gone through in their own life. When you call them such vile words, you may rip open old wounds that had just healed or begun to heal. Can’t you ever take a step back to look at what you’re writing before you send stupid fucking anons and throw around hurtful accusations with literally zero ounces of proof. You should all she ashamed of yourselves.

90 notes - Posted April 14, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

#tumblr2022 #year in review #my 2022 tumblr year in review #your tumblr year in review #this FINALLY posted #also what a weird year it has been

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filthy-reckless-rp · 4 months

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♛ Spotted on the Upper East Side…

Name: Laurel Xu Pronouns: Up To Player Age: 25 years old Hometown: UTP Occupation: Photographer and Set Designer on 'Friday Night Bites' Social Status: UTP Faceclaim suggestion: Chelsea Zhang

Who Is Laurel?

“I'm wishing my life away, with these things I'll never say.”

Who is this hiding away behind the scenes, pretending I won't notice them? Laurel Xu, you should know better. There's no such thing as flying under the radar around here although you do try your best. You've shied away from the spotlight your whole life. You're happier with your own company, electing not to trust easily. You want to make a mark on this world, you want to make art, to leave behind a legacy. You want to be more, you just aren't sure how to say that with confidence. While you'd rather avoid confrontation, we both know that you can cut to the bone. I, for one, can't wait to see if your claws come out. XOXO ---Gossip Girl

A Little Extra

UTP (two paragraphs of biography; helpful key points listed below - message if you’d like to make any changes or note in the app if you’d rather the bio written up for you!)

Laurel likes to mind their own business. Sharing their personal thoughts, feelings and opinions to strangers just isn't their style. While they might be judging, it's silent judging. Only when Laurel is pushed, will they unleash their hot and/or scathing takes.

Very focused and work orientated, Laurel doesn't let anything get in their way. Tends to choose work commitments over everything (and everyone) else. The last one to leave set at night.

Finds it much easier to express themselves through art. They can wax poetic about a shot, articulating the moment perfectly. Feels most in control when they're behind the camera.

Listen, Laurel has fun. They know how to have fun! They just don't do it very often. A little grumpy, a little pessimistic and much prefers staying in over whatever else is going on out there.

Is it totally cliché to secretly care when you act like you don't? Sure but it's also Laurel. They might act uninterested but sometimes their secretly soft heart gets in the way. Don't tell anyone.

What Does Gossip Girl Have On Them?

UTP (if applicable; alternatively you can note their thoughts on Gossip Girl’s return!)

Connections

Kelly Xu-King - the hot-shot doctor aunt! Kelly is one of the smartest and well respected people that Laurel knows.

Nelly Yuki - the cousin! They've recently reconnected over social media and have been planning to meet up IRL for a while now.

Scottie Takeda - Scottie is Laurel's best, most beautiful, friend. No one gets Laurel like Scottie, and vice versa. Scottie's always dragging Laurel along to events, parties and most other places outside their comfort zone but they're always happy to do it, for Scottie.

Frankie Vives - Laurel knows that Frankie and Scottie have got a silly little rivalry going on and they refuse to entertain it!

Sienna Haven - is intrigued by the newest FNB cast member (who photographs very well). Laurel tends not to go out of their way to meet new people but may put in some effort for Sienna.

#*#c: laurel xu #fnbcrew #o #kelly #nelly #scottie #frankie #sienna

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randomestfandoms-ocs · 2 years

Text

Arrowverse OC Masterlist

DC || The Batman

Name: Aella Wayne

Story: Homecoming

Fandom: Supergirl

Faceclaim: Camila Mendes

Love interest: Tim Drake

Summary: When Aella Wayne’s National City boarding school got destroyed during one of Supergirl’s epic battles, she knew that she would have to go back to Gotham for the first time since she was thirteen. It would mean leaving behind her beloved internship at CatCo, unfortunately, but she’d barely seen her dad since she started school so she was still looking forward to that. Of course, when she gets home, nothing is as she remembers. There’s a bat themed vigilante with a neon sidekick, her dad has all but adopted a boy her age, and she seems to be the only person to realize that Bruce Wayne and Tim Drake are Batman and Robin.

Name: Akin

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Face claim: Sam Claflin

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Name: Angelina Winters

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Anne Hathaway

Love Interest: Oliver Queen

Name: Annika Webster

Story: Running Home To You

Fandom: The Flash

Faceclaim: Danielle Campbell

Love Interest: Barry Allen

Summary: Annika Webster loves Central City, she really did. But at eighteen and fresh out of high school, she needed something different. Something new. So she grabbed her passport and her camera, and hopped on the next flight to London . Annika spent the next several years travelling the world and making a name for herself as a photographer and travel journalist, and by 25, she was ready to think about settling down. So when the next invite rolled in, from Harrison Wells himself, asking her to come to Central City to photograph the grand reveal of his particle accelerator, she’s all too happy to hop on the next plane home. It was supposed to be just another gig, something she’d done a million times. It wasn’t supposed to end with her waking up from a coma nine months later, laying in a hospital bed next to her once best friend, Barry Allen.

Name: Astra Bishop-Kent

Story: Crushed And Created

Fandom: Titans

Face claim: Nicole Maines

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Name: Bea Kent

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Face claim: Alba Baptista

Love Interest: Jason Todd

Name: Bethany Lance

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Amanda Seyfried

Name: Celia Danvers

Story: I Need A Hero

Fandom: Supergirl

Faceclaim: Erin Moriarty

Name: Chloe Todd

Story: We Can Burn Brighter (Than The Sun)

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Liana Liberato

Name: Dani Merlyn

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Hailee Steinfeld

Name: Diana Queen

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Mackenzie Foy

Name: Emmy Queen

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Meg Donnelly

Love Interest: Jason Todd

Name: Esmerelda Torres

Story: Hall Of Fame

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Emeraude Toubia

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Summary: Esmerelda Torres would like the record to show that it was not being a Titan that had made her special. Before being Miss Universe, Esmerelda had just been a little girl who believed that she could change the world. It was the members of the team that made the Titans special, not the other way around. But she had lost it along the way, they all had. Sometime after Garth, after Jericho, after the team split up, that spark of eternal hope had faded, leaving behind a young adult, lost and untethered, special only in name. Until Dick Grayson walked back into her life with a teenage girl in tow, reminding her that at one point she had poured her heart and soul into saving everyone. Reminding her that at one point, she had been special. And that she could be again.

Name: Gracie Grant

Story: Daydream Believer

Fandom: Supergirl

Faceclaim: Meg Donnelly

Name: Greer Collier

Story: Devil Side

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Dove Cameron

Summary: Of course Greer Collier knew who Dick Grayson was, every Gotham native knew the Wayne ward, and as two of the few children brought to galas throughout the city, they’d known each other well, once. But that was years ago, more than a decade since she’d last seen him, when suddenly Detective Richard Grayson is asking her to grab coffee and answer a couple of questions.

She’s confident that he hasn’t found anything connecting her to her actions as Hellcat, and she doesn’t think that he’d be all that interested in the supposed glitz and glam of her life, so she’s perfectly fine with simply ignoring the request. But when Robin suddenly shows up, digging into her nightlife and following her across rooftops, she can’t help but wonder if the vigilante and the detective are following the same thread, and if it might not be worthwhile to hear what Dick Grayson has to say.

Name: Imogen Allen

Story: Untitled

Fandom: The Flash & Legends Of Tomorrow

Faceclaim: Lyndsy Fonseca

Love Interest: Rip Hunter; potential Rip Hunter x Ray Palmer

Name: Ivy Knight

Story: Faith Forgotten Land

Read it on AO3 HERE | FFnet HERE | Wattpad HERE

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Leighton Meester

Love Interest: James Bishop; Oliver Queen

Summary: Yvette Knight was the epic love of Oliver Queen’s life. As the daughter of a French heiress and an American media mogul, their families had always had close ties, and the two had been raised side by side. Best friends since infancy, childhood puppy love turned high school sweethearts, everyone expected them to be engaged as soon as they finished college. It never happened. Instead, when Ivy returned to America after four years at Oxford, she came back with James Bishop on her arm, and his ring on her finger, and to Oliver Queen in bed with Laurel Lance. Heartbroken by his ex-girlfriend’s engagement, Oliver was quick to agree to join his father on the Gambit to go to China. To his death.

Five years later, Oliver Queen is back from the dead, and he hardly recognizes the world he’s returned to. The one thing he does recognize? The family’s publicist, the woman who held his family together through his death and now his resurrection, none other than Ivy Knight herself. Still engaged and still unmarried, a bit older and sadder than she used to be, she’s a dead man’s dream come true. And Oliver can’t pretend that he’s any less in love with her than he’d ever been.

Name: Kelsey Doyle

Story: Free Falling

Fandom: The Flash

Faceclaim: Nina Dobrev

Love Interest: Barry Allen

Summary: Kelsey Doyle wouldn’t necessarily call her life boring – her job at the CCPD made sure of it – but it was ordinary. Wake up, drink too much coffee, go to work, drink too much coffee, work late, drink too much coffee, go home, and repeat. The only thing that kept her from losing her mind was her best friend and co-worker, Barry Allen. It was just another normal day when Barry got back from Starling City, ready to drag she and Iris to STAR Labs to see their new particle accelerator. It was less normal when she and Barry watched the accelerator go haywire on TV, and even less normal when she got hit by lightning. And it was anything but normal when Kelsey Doyle died.

Name: Keziah Zatara

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Danielle Rose Russell

Name: Kinsley Kord

Story: Livewire

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Shelley Hennig

Love interest: Dick Grayson

Summary: Kinsley Kord didn’t miss being a Titan. She didn’t. She missed her best friends more than anything, and she missed living with them in the tower, but she didn’t miss being the Justice League’s glorified cleanup crew, risking her life on missions deemed below their notice. And almost ten years after leaving the tower, she was perfectly happy to leave Glitch in the past and focus on her future. She was happy, really, she was.

And so of course, of every bakery in Gotham, it had to be hers that Dick Grayson wandered into with a teenage girl in his care and assassins on their tail. And of course he couldn’t have just taken a donut and left, no. Dick Grayson just had to ask for her help, and Kinsley Kord still couldn’t say no to him.

Name: Logan Becker

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Hailee Steinfeld

Love Interest: Jason Todd

Name: Lucas Merlyn

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Matthew Daddario

Name: Malia Constantine

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Sabrina Carpenter & Sarah Michelle Gellar

Name: Mercy “Echo” Bowen

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Florence Pugh

Love Interest: Oliver Queen

Name: Mia Queen

Story: Green Light

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Crystal Reed

Love Interest: Barry Allen

Summary: When Mia Queen was twelve, her father and brother were lost at least. Weeks before she turns eighteen, her brother is found alive, and returns home. Only, nothing is as he remembered. Moira is distant, married to their father’s CFO and having clandestine meetings with Malcolm Merlyn. Thea has gone wild, relying on alcohol and drugs to numb the pain of losing Robert and Oliver, shoplifting just to feel something. And Mia… Mia has gone wild in her own way, sneaking out to the Glades to see her secret boyfriend, getting into fights wherever she could find them, breaking rules just to see if anyone would care enough to stop her.

But with Oliver’s miraculous return, all eyes are on the Queen family. Between prying reporters and a concerned older brother, a lot of secrets risk being brought to light — secrets that some in the city would kill to keep hidden.

Name: Nia West

Story: Untitled

Fandom: The Flash

Faceclaim: Vanessa Morgan

Love Interest: Barry Allen

Name: Nico Wayne

Story: Treacherous

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Dylan O’Brien

Love interest: Teagan O’Neal

Summary: Coming from the richest families in Gotham had perks, and Teagan O’Neal knew it well; after all, that was why she and her best friend Nico had always been untouchable by the law. Growing up it was all about petty theft, vandalism, and underage drinking, but as they got older, things changed. Following in his family’s footsteps, Nico took on a life of vigilantism, while Teagan, following a legacy that no one else knew about, went darker. Their difference in morals had never been a problem in their relationship, even after they started living together. After all, they respected each other’s boundaries and never crossed paths in the shadowy Gotham underworld. At least, not before Nico’s former brother, Dick Grayson, showed up, asking for Nico’s help to track down Dinoaea, the Venus Flytrap, Teagan herself.

Name: Noah Altman

Story: Accidental

Fandom: The Flash

Faceclaim: Dylan Sprayberry

Love Interest: Parker Allen

Summary: Although they hadn’t lived together since Nora Allen died, the Allen siblings were still as thick as thieves. From the moment he was old enough, Barry had been taking Parker out every Saturday for sibling bonding, and was as regular a fixture at Altman movie nights as Parker was at West movie nights. Neither the Altmans nor the Wests had been able to take in both children, instead keeping the best friends — Parker and Noah, and Barry and Iris — together, but the four had formed their own little family back before Barry and Iris had even graduated high school. So Barry taking Parker and Noah to see the grand reveal of the particle accelerator really shouldn’t have been a big deal. It was, for all intents and purposes, just another normal night. Until Parker opens her eyes several months later to find out that her brother and best friend are both still in the same unnatural coma that she just woke up from.

Name: Parker Allen

Story: Accidental

Fandom: The Flash

Faceclaim: Danielle Rose Russell

Love Interest: Noah Altman

Name: Rebecca Lance

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Kathryn Newton

Love Interest: Thea Queen (& Roy Harper?)

Name: Reggie Lott

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Giorgia Whigham

Name: Remi Alcott

Story: Untitled

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Natalie Alyn Lind

Love Interest: Gar Logan

Name: Rowena Abbott

Story: Abyss

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Emma Dumont

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Summary: According to the police report, Rowena Abbot did kill her father — even if she didn’t remember doing so. She could remember the moments before, the raised voice and fists, and she could remember the moments after, the blood splattered across the walls, but she couldn’t remember anything in between. Still, despite the lack of any weapon or recollection, not even an honest self defence plea was enough to keep her out of jail.

Ten years later, older and wiser, more angry and more powerful than she’d ever been before, Rowena Abbott is released, and she only has one thing on her mind: revenge. And then she meets her parole officer, Detective Dick Grayson, and with him, a teenage girl far too familiar for the stranger she is.

Name: Sarina Strange

Story: Untitled

Faceclaim: Sophie Turner

Love interest: Jason Todd

Name: Teagan O’Neal

Story: Treacherous

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Madelaine Petsch

Love Interest: Nico Wayne

Name: Thalassa Zatara

Story: Archaic

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Stella Maeve

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Name: Thalia Lance

Story: Paint It Black

Fandom: Arrow

Faceclaim: Blake Lively

Love Interest: Oliver Queen & Tommy Merlyn

Name: Vanessa Kline

Story: Symphony Of Sorrowful Songs

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Kat McNamara

Love Interest: Dick Grayson

Summary: Growing up in Crime Alley was anything but pleasant, everyone knew that. For Vanessa Kline, the only silver lining her life had ever had was Jason Todd, her baby brother in all but blood. From the first time they’d met, when he was nine and she was twelve, he’d been the centre of her life and she’d promised herself that she would do anything to protect him. But when he was twelve, he got picked up by CPS and taken into foster care, and Vanessa could never find him again. Only a few weeks later, she was found and taken in by the Gotham City Sirens, and her life finally took a turn for the better.

The years passed, and everything changed. Vanessa went to art school, left Gotham, became a vigilante. Songbird, a nickname that her mothers had given her and a tribute to her lost baby brother, she never focused on the big bad villains — that was what Batman and Robin and even the Sirens were for. No, Songbird looked after the kids, the poor and downtrodden, protecting them like she wished someone had protected her. She occasionally teamed up with Robin, sure, but for the most part, she worked alone. As long as she didn’t let herself get close to people, she wouldn’t have to lose anyone else.

But when Detective Dick Grayson seeks her out, trying to figure out why the Sirens had gone completely off the radar, Vanessa finds herself thrown into a mystery unlike any she’s faced before. But this time, she has a partner at her back — a partner that turns out to have a surprising connection to a face from her past.

Name: Waverly Todd

Story: We Can Burn Brighter (Than The Sun)

Fandom: Titans

Faceclaim: Madison McLaughlin

#arrowverse oc #dc oc #titans oc #masterlist

11 notes · View notes

vintagedolan · 3 years

Text

mixtape | track eight

| masterlist | faceclaims | playlist |

“Left or right?”

“Don’t look at me, I never fucking graduated.”

“Right, then you move it to the left,” Lisa offered, attempting to get past Grayson. He was having none of it, sticking out his tongue a bit while he focused on getting Indy’s cap arranged correctly, making sure her tassel was in the right spot.

Indy had passed her finals with flying colors, which came as no surprise to anyone who knew her. Top of the class, which was enough for her to feel a tiny bit proud of herself. The Dolan’s on the other hand, we’re over the moon, ready to celebrate her as if it was the greatest achievement anyone could accomplish. Grayson had picked her up from her last final, coaxing her to take a nap in the truck while he drove them out to Jersey, her head in his lap as she was finally able to relax after so many days of stress. He was glad - he wanted her energy to be high when she got to the house, considering he’d planned out a big family dinner as a surprise. He’d even caved and bought her her favorite non-vegan ice cream. She was so surprised that she cried as soon as she went in and saw Ethan and Lisa in the kitchen with little fake graduation cap headbands on.

Even though surprises weren’t her favorite, he hoped he could sneak in another, considering the real one wasn’t until the next day, and it’s arrival came as a text that buzzed in Grayson’s pocket.

Here!

He cleared his throat quickly, trying to hide his excitement as he stepped back from his girlfriend.

“Hey Indiana, I think there’s something at the door for you,” he said.

She squinted at him in accusation.

“You just called me Indiana.”

“Indeed I did.”

“That’s sus.”

“Just go to the door Dee.”

“Sus.”

“Dee.”

“G.”

“Indiana Jamie Cross, will you please open your door,” he said as formally as he could, knowing it would make her laugh enough to give in.

“If something jumps out and scares me, I’ll kick your ass.”

“Holy shit just go open the door before I do it for you.”

She walked slowly but she listened to him, pulling the door open cautiously.

“I was wondering if you were gonna let me in.”

Indiana’s mouth fell open.

“Charlie?!”

Grayson Dolan had learned in the last week that the Cross women were stubborn beings, especially when it came to money. Which was why it took so long for him to convince the older Cross sister to let him buy her and Devin a plane ticket at Thanksgiving.

“We would love to be there, but I just bought the ticket to get out here, and money is kinda tight for us right now. I don’t know if we can swing it so soon again.” Charlie kept her voice down, pretending to look at some of the picture frames on the bookshelf while Grayson talked to her.

“I’ll buy your tickets, both of you, first class.”

“Grayson, no, I can’t ask you to do that,” she shook her head.

“But you didn’t ask. I offered, there’s a difference. C’mon, you know that she’d love to have you there.”

Charlie hesitated, bit her lip the way Indy always did. The back door opened, signaling that everyone was coming back inside and that their conversation needed to end. She looked up at him quickly, eyes darting across the room.

“I’ll think about it.”

It had taken her four days to finally agree and let Grayson send her the money for the tickets, though she insisted on flying coach, sending him back the rest of what he’d given her to cover first class, down to the cent.

Which was how she ended up getting tackled by a very excited Indiana outside her apartment door, so hard that they almost knocked Devin over in a whirl of blonde hair. Grayson caught her cap as it flew off.

“What?! What are you doing here?! How did you get here! I thought you couldn’t come, what the fuck!”

“Ask him,” Charlie laughed, lifting her chin towards Grayson.

She spun, eyes wide and shocked.

“You did this?”

He couldn’t help but laugh. “You look exactly like the soft eyes emoji right now, you know that?”

“Shut up,” she smacked his chest before she buried her face in it, sniffling.

“Hey, you don’t have to cry, you’ll mess up your mascara,” he said, pressing a kiss to her hair before she stood up straight again, letting him swipe his thumbs under her eyes.

Ethan was watching the interaction from the couch with a bit of a frown. He pulled his eyes away and picked at some lint on his henley, but he kept his ears towards the kitchen. There was a tenderness, a careful nature in the way he spoke around Indy. It reminded him of the first time that Grayson had gotten a girlfriend. Peyton. They’d met on the first day of 7th grade, in science class, where Grayson didn’t care to pay attention, especially not with Ethan and the prettiest girl in the grade at his table. Ethan had teased his brother relentlessly until he finally got his words handed back to him when she actually agreed to a date - which involved him picking flowers out of his mom’s window box garden (he got in trouble for it later) and hiding them under his jacket when Sean dropped him off at the movie theatre. They’d kissed each other during the end credits, with tongue according to a very excited Grayson who came home and plopped himself on his brother’s bed and spilled every little detail. Ethan was single at the time, so he could only listen, and watch. Watch the way he carried her books for her to class and then sprinted to his own with only a few seconds to spare before the bell. Watched him beg his mom to dye his hair blonde when Peyton said she thought it would look cool. Watched him pass her notes all of class, not caring when Mrs. Patterson took one and read “I love you so much, you’re the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen” in front of the whole class that included the majority of his wrestling team. And, he watched the pain on his face when they stumbled across Peyton kissing Jacob Bates behind the bus when she thought Grayson was at wrestling practice. He tried to keep it together, but he sniffled his way through Lisa dying his hair brown that night. Ethan had tried to cheer him up with his usual tactics - stupid inside jokes, making fun of Cameron, even making fun of himself. But Grayson didn’t laugh.

That was when he knew his brother loved hard. He was halfway convinced the reason that Grayson was the bigger twin in the womb was because of the size of his heart. That being said, it wasn’t unusual for Ethan to watch his brother be kind, and sweet, and loving to his girlfriend.

But there was something different with Indy. It was the first time that he could look at Grayson with a girl and see Grayson - unfiltered, unaltered. His twin brother, in his full form, not having changed a single aspect of himself to fit another person. And it made him happy. So happy that for a moment he was able to ignore the guilt that started to rush over him as he remembered all the things he’d said, about how their relationship wouldn’t work, and how Grayson needed to address it. It made him feel worse that he knew he was still right, no matter how in love his brother was.

In the kitchen, Charlie was flicking through settings on her camera.

“I know we have to leave soon, but we have to get at least a few pictures before you get all sweaty cause you get sweaty when you’re nervous,” she said, grabbing her sister’s arm and leading her over to the windows, positioning her with the right lighting.

They took a few normal portraits, some with her cap and some without, a few candids where Charlie did her best to make her laugh as Grayson watched on, the proudest smile on his face.

“Alright, I want one, I want one!” Devin chimed in, surprising both the Cross sisters. They turned to him with the same expression that had him laughing so hard he held his chest. It was the loudest sound that any of the Dolan’s had ever heard come out of him, but it was contagious enough to have them all smiling.

“What?! It’s not every day my little sis graduates college!” He teased, going to ruffle her hair but thinking better of it at the last minute, instead choosing to wrap her up in the biggest hug, her face adorably squished in the picture that Charlie captured.

After that, it was a revolving door of poses with everyone. Lisa fixed Indy’s hair for her before their picture, and Ethan stole her cap and wore it himself. He offered to take the camera, thankful for Charlie’s settings that seemed to work magic as he took a few cute one of the duo, even a few with Indy on Charlie’s back. Devin joined in and they recreated the shoot from their engagement party that Indy still had on the top shelf.

By the time it was Grayson’s turn, Indy’s cheeks were sore from smiling. But she couldn’t help but beam at him as he waltzed over to her in his dress pants and button down, all dressed up for her big day. She did her best to ignore the click of the camera as Grayson fixed her cap, moved her honors cords so they were even where they hung. They took the normal formal poses, and Grayson stole Ethan’s idea of borrowing the cap. But Indy gasped when he tossed it to the side and scooped her up bridal style, laughing as he held her tight and kissed her cheek, even dipped her a bit and looked up at Charlie for the photo op. Indy put it on her mental to-do list to get them printed as soon as she could, beyond excited to see them once Charlie sent them over.

“Okay, we gotta go or we’re gonna be late,” Lisa said, making sure everyone had what they needed for the short walk to the university. Everyone layered up, but while Grayson disappeared in search of his dress coat, Indy pulled her sister aside.

“Hey um. Did… did Dad talk to you at all this week?”

Charlie’s face melted into pity. “I’m sorry bubs.”

“No it’s fine, it’s no big deal. Didn’t expect him to, I just wanted to check so I didn’t get blindsided or anything if he showed up.”

Charlie just nodded and gave her a small smile. She didn’t tell her little sister that she’d told Kenneth about her graduation - four times, actually. He’d never responded, though she could see that he’d read them. Charlie was so used to making excuses for him that she had a whole list of them backed up. He had to work. Traffic. He wanted to come, but something came up. But when she looked at Indy, who wasn’t so much her little sister anymore, she bit her tongue, put her arm around her and headed out the door.

The ceremony was in the science building. John Clark University didn’t have anywhere big enough to house the entire graduating class, so they opted to split it up into smaller ceremonies by discipline instead.

“It should be pretty quick actually, there’s not a ton of us,” Indy said when they arrived, looking over her shoulder at all the graduates moving to get checked in and lined up.

“We’ll wave when you come out so you can find us!” To Indy’s surprise, Lisa’s eyes were teary. “I’m so proud of you.”

“Li,” Indy smiled, pulling her in for a last minute hug, trying not to get emotional herself at the fact that a woman who had no obligation to love her cared so much.

“Don’t trip,” Ethan grinned, nudging her shoulder to lighten the mood.

She turned to Grayson, kissing him quickly before she finally headed off, looking back a few times before she disappeared around the corner.

“Okay seats, seats, we gotta get good ones!” Charlie exclaimed, immediately leading the group through the rows - it was a massive lecture hall with the flip down chairs Grayson had only seen in movie theatres and movies. When they finally found five seats together, he found himself wandering what it was like to be in class somewhere so big, with so many other people learning the same thing.

Despite feeling like they were running late, there were plenty more graduates and families that filed into the building, taking their seats and patiently awaiting the procession.

Thirty minutes later they finally began to file through, a straight line of black robes and red and white tassels. Charlie spotted Indiana first, with Grayson a millisecond behind her, both of them standing up to wave until she saw them and waved back. He kept track of her as she went to sit down in her row, kept his eyes on her as best he could while the main speaker began his speech. He didn’t care what he had to say - he only had eyes for his girl, who looked back every so often and offered him a little wave that still had his heart fluttering like they were hiding in the curtains of Emma’s room all over again.

Grayson hadn’t experienced a lot of moments of pride in his lifetime. There were a few he could pinpoint - when Ethan won one of their wrestling tournaments in middle school, when their team won their lacrosse championship. When his mom’s salon won best in the city a few years back, when his sister graduated college. But what he felt in that next moment topped every single one.

The dean of the college of sciences asked everyone to hold their applause, and without any prior consulting, Indy’s entire squad ignored the rule.

“Indiana Jamie Cross. Bachelor’s of Biological Sciences. Summa Cum Laude.”

“WOOOOOO, YEAH DEE!” Grayson yelled it at the top of his lungs, not even noticing the way everyone turned to look at him. He could see Indy’s blush all the way from the stage as they all continued clapping until the next person was called.

For a moment he was afraid she was embarrassed, but when she took her seat again he saw her turn around and blow him a quick kiss. He caught it in the air and threw her a wink, excited to get to her to give her a real one, which was exactly what he did when she finally made it out of the stream of people at the end of the ceremony. Everyone’s hearts melted when he spun her around and planted one on her.

Charlie took a few more pictures of her with her diploma before Grayson spoke back up.

“Alright, coffee’s on me!”

It seemed to have gotten somewhat colder outside as the wind whipped around the buildings, and Indy curled into a much warmer Grayson as the group headed down the sidewalk. He moved his finger to her palm.

P-R-O-U-D-O-F-U

She leaned her cheek against his shoulder, her blush almost warm enough to soak through his coat.

But it was nothing compared to the redness that spread over her cheeks when she walked into Jets.

“HAPPY GRADUATION INDIANA!”

The cry was championed by Patrick, who stood in the lobby absolutely beaming at her, below a banner that they’d hung above the espresso bars that read the same. Indy didn’t have to ask - the grin on Grayson’s face gave it away. She wanted to ask him how long he’d planned that surprise, how many more he had in store. She felt woefully undeserving, especially when she realized that Patrick had shut down the store for an hour just for her.

“And I thought you giving me free coffee was bad for business,” she said in his ear when she hugged him.

“I don’t know what lover boy over there does but he covered normal sales for the hour and then some,” he mumbled.

One of the baristas handed Ethan a sign that read “closed for private celebration” to hang on the door, and then it was truly time to celebrate. Indy walked behind the bar like she had a million times before, happy to see that everything was still in the same place. Patrick threw her an apron that she jokingly tied on over her robe before she clapped her hands together.

“Alright, who wants what?”

She made some of her best latte art that day - leaves, a flower for Lisa, a slightly lopsided swan for Devin per his request. It felt nice to be in a familiar place doing something she was good at - it blanketed over the uncertainty that had begun to settle in when she realized that everything was on a trajectory of change. She would never sit in another undergraduate course, never have some of her favorite professors again. And there was always the factor of possibly looking at other schools - they all started their programs in the fall, which meant she had time to truly look, if she really wanted to. From her first tour of campus she’d always thought she would be at JCU for her whole academic career, but her mind began to wander when she heard the buzzing of all the other top schools that her cohort were applying to - Baylor, Harvard, and the one that had piqued her interest the most, UCLA.

She’d googled their admission rates one night when Grayson had fallen asleep during a back scratch, and her chances looked good. Really good. But she’d closed the tab quickly - LA was too far away from New York, from home.

“Hey. Where’d you go?” Grayson’s voice was soft as he clinked his mug against hers to get her attention.

“Just thinking,” she smiled, turning her head and tilting up until he kissed her quickly. “I’ll be right back.”

Indiana hopped off her barstool and headed back behind the bar, following Patrick who had disappeared to the back storage room. It was like walking into a friend’s house you hadn’t been to in a while when she passed through the swinging door. The freezers on the left and the syrups in organized rows on her right, just like before.

“Don’t even think about trying to do any dishes while you’re here,” Patrick said, his back still to her as she moved to the sink. She’d had too much time to think while she sat and waited for her name to be called during the ceremony - too much empty mental space that could be allotted to all the things she should be doing. Which meant she’d managed to hatch up a whole plan to better herself in more ways than one in a mere 20 minutes.

“Do you guys still have the same insurance policy for employees? Like the new health benefits, the mental health ones that you all put in like two months before I left?”

Patrick turned the water off.

“Yeah, insurance is the same, it covers four therapy sessions a month for anyone who qualifies. But that’s just for full time employees. But I could probably pull a few strings and get you some benefits with part time hours… is everything okay?”

“Yeah, yeah everything is fine! I was just curious. Thanks.”

Indy turned to leave, jumping a bit when she realized that Charlie was behind her.

“What’re you doing back here?”

“I was looking for Patrick, there’s a delivery guy here with milk,” Charlie explained, but there was a seriousness in her brows that let Indy know that she had not only heard enough of the conversation, but that she was definitely going to have to talk about it later.

Damn.

She pushed the thought aside and put on another smile before they all exited the backroom, laughing at the sight of one of Ethan trying to steam milk. He turned at her entrance and lost his focus, moving the pitcher down too far and spraying almond milk everywhere before the barista who was helping him flipped the wand back up.

“Eden’s on facetime for you over there!” He pointed towards the counter and his phone, which Indy happily picked up to find a beaming Eden, who informed her that she’d sent a card that would probably be there a few days late, but she’d tried. She stayed on FaceTime while they all thanked Patrick again and headed back to the apartment, Lisa unveiling the gift pile and vegan cookie cake she’d managed to sneak in while Grayson had distracted Indiana with questions about his outfit choices. Almost every gift made Indiana cry - just the idea that they’d spent any time thinking about her was enough to have her emotional anyways. But between the blanket that Lisa had embroidered with JCU 20’, Ethan’s gift of a JCU Alumni sweatshirt and Indy’s dream record player that Charlie and Devin had got her, she was teary-eyed. Her mouth fell open when Grayson came out with a giant box from the spare room - she couldn’t for the life of her figure out how he’d managed to sneak it in past her - but she didn’t care when she unwrapped it and realized it was a Mastrena.

“You bought me an espresso machine? Grayson! These things cost a fortune!”

“Yeah, but you graduated college! And now you can make lattes all the time.”

“Gray-”

“And you can make me lattes,” he teased, knowing it would take her a while to fully accept it. She just shook her head when he kissed her cheek, overwhelmed.

By the time the night was coming to a close, everyone was piled onto the couch, with Charlie and Indy on their boyfriend’s laps to make room for everyone as they watched Collateral Beauty at Indy’s request. Grayson frowned when she sniffled and held her when she cried, eyes more focused on her than the screen. And he couldn’t say he was too sad to see Lisa and Ethan say goodbye, or for Devin and Charlie to say their goodnights before they disappeared into the spare room.

The duo brushed their teeth in the sink side by side, and Grayson snapped a picture of them in the mirror with a foamy smile before they stripped down to underwear and scurried under the covers.

Indy was just as glad to have him to herself for the first time all day, and she soaked in his warmth, sighing when he pulled her closer.

“I love you. Thank you for today.”

Y-O-U-R-E-W-E-L-C-O-M-E he traced on her shoulder blade, lips on her forehead.

T-I-R-E-D?

“Why?” Grayson smirked, laughing quietly when she smacked his chest.

“It’s been a long day, that’s why.”

“For you,” he corrected.

“You had to sit around and watch me all day though.”

“You say that as if it’s something I wouldn’t enjoy. I could celebrate you everyday baby.”

She blushed at his words, burying her face in his neck.

“For someone as accomplished as you, you really suck at letting people acknowledge your accomplishments,” he teased, running his fingertips over her skin lightly. She did the same over his chest, tracing a hexagon.

“I’m… I’m not used to people being proud of me I guess.”

Grayson frowned and pulled back and looked at her, really looked in her eyes. They were still the color of the jellyfish, just a bit duller in the low light of her bedroom.

“I’m proud of you Indiana.” He paused, offering her a small smile. “But you know what? I’m not the most proud.”

Indy waited.

“Your mom. She’s gotta be the most proud of you. She’s seen every single minute you put in to get where you are right now.”

She crumpled into his chest, and the tears that had threatened her all day finally fell, hot and salty as they traveled onto his skin. It was quiet in the room for a while, and Grayson waited patiently - quietly, until she spoke again.

“I felt her today. She was there.”

“Yeah?”

“I didn’t see her or anything. But I had a dream about her the other night though, and it felt like she was really there with me. And it felt like that today too. Does that ever happen to you? With your dad?”

“Oh all the time. He’s always with me. Sometimes it’s stronger than other times - like when I’m about to do stupid shit, or make a mistake, I can hear him clear as day in my head. But it’s comforting, you know? Knowing they’re there, watching over us.”

“Yeah.” Indy’s throat was tight all over again. She wished she could have met Sean for a moment, and then she realized that in some ways, in knowing Grayson, she had.

“You know, one of the things that really stuck with me, towards the end, was something his nurse said. Her name was Charlotte, and she must have been working fucking overtime because she was always there. But one day I was in the hallway, cause I just needed a break, and she came and sat down next to me on the floor. And at that point, I mean we knew. We didn’t know when, but we knew. And she looked at me and she said ‘sweetheart, this is a gift for him. He gets so much more time with you, because he can always be with you instead of only sometimes.’ And I remember, I was so fucking mad at her, because who the fuck says that shit to someone whose about to lose their parent? But she was right. She was so fucking right.

“And while the doctors were in and out, giving us all these numbers and all these timelines and all that, Charlotte was the only one who really told me anything that mattered. I don’t know if I ever told you this, but my dad didn’t want to know anything about his… his cancer. He didn’t want to know his counts, or how much time he had left. He never asked, and she was the only one who stood by him in that, made sure that he didn’t know anything he didn’t want to. And it meant so much to him, in the end, that he had that choice. That was one of the only things he asked us to do, before he went. He told us not to cry, and he told us to take care of Ma, and Cam, but he told us to look out for Charlotte too. When we could think, we went back to the unit, asked the other nurses if there was anything she needed, and it turns out she’d been driving a 1995 Honda for a decade, and she didn’t think it would make it through the rest of the winter. We bought her an SUV, and I still don’t think she knows it was us, but I swear my dad told me which one to get for her. And he was so fucking proud.”

Indiana hung on his every word, watching him as he watched the ceiling, like he always did when he talked about his father.

“He has so much to be proud of Grayson. He helped raise a wonderful, wonderful man. The best, actually.”

Her voice snapped him out of his own head, and he turned to her quickly, worried.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to do that.”

“Hey, don’t ever apologize for that. I like hearing about your dad, and it’s good to get it out sometimes. You can tell me anything that’s on your mind, you know that.”

He looked at her, there in his arms, eyes a bit puffy from tears passed, that soft smile on her lips that was somehow more endearing than her full one, and he felt tears of his own start to prickle. He knew she meant it, knew she would be understanding, and that somehow made it worse.

What was he supposed to say? I love you so much, and I think you’re the love of my life, but our lives are completely different, and I promised I wouldn’t ask you to go to LA, and I’m terrified of losing you and I don’t want to hurt you.

His lips parted, and then he closed them again. She yawned so hard that her nose scrunched, and when she was done she curled back up against his chest, wrapping her arms around him.

“M’tired,” she mumbled, which meant she was already half asleep.

He pulled the covers over her shoulders and kissed her hair.

“I love you,” she whispered, tracing the same letters she spoke.

“I love you more.” His voice was tight as his finger moved against the back of her arm, and he turned the lamp off before any of his tears fell.

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

When Indiana woke up, Grayson’s arms were like a cage around her. Usually, they were still somewhat intertwined when they woke, but she’d never had to maneuver her way out of his arms with so much force before.

She finally managed it, and replaced herself with a pillow that he gladly pulled to his chest. Indy couldn’t help but to lean over and brush some of his floppy hair out of his eyes, staring for a moment before she pulled herself away and headed into the kitchen.

The reason for her early wake up was standing in front of the fridge, with a head of blonde hair that resembled a birds nest.

When she turned around, she looked guilty as ever.

“Shit, did I wake you up?”

“Nah,” Indy reassured her sister with a smile, moving over to the coffee machine. “It’s 10 anyways, I’m surprised I slept that long.”

Grayson had gotten her a newer version that was actually fairly quiet, but she made sure both the bedroom doors were shut before she ground the espresso for her latte, and Charlie’s flat white.

Charlie was nice enough to wait until she had her mug to bring it up.

“So.”

Indy sighed. “So.”

“You asked Patrick about insurance stuff.”

“Yes.”

“So you’re going to work there again?”

“I have to pay rent somehow, don’t I?”

“Dad pays your rent.”

“I don’t want dad to pay my rent, that’s the whole issue.”

“Okay, but you didn’t ask Patrick about salary, you asked him about insurance. For mental health specifically.”

“You know, it’s not polite to eavesdrop.”

“Are you okay? Because you know that you can always talk to me about stuff, whatever it is. And I know I’m not the best about talking about mom, but I can try, I’ve been doing better with it and-”

“Char. Stop. It’s not about mom.”

“Oh.” It was obvious by her long pause that she hadn’t considered an alternative, but Indy waited anyways.

“Then… what’s going on?”

Indy toyed with the foam on her latte with her finger, ignoring how hot it was.

“I was thinking about trying to get a handle on the plane thing.”

“Oh.”

“I don’t want it to be such a big deal for me to just, fucking fly somewhere. I gotta get over that shit.”

Charlie pondered it for a minute, and she chose her next words carefully.

“Just to fly? Or to fly to a specific place.”

Indy laughed.

“You know, you’ve never been good at subtle. You got that from mom. But no, I’m not just doing it because of Grayson.”

“Did he ask you to?”

“Of course not, he wouldn’t do that.” Charlie’s shoulders relaxed. “But he does live in LA, which means I’ve gotta be able to fly out there.”

“How often?”

“I don’t know, we haven’t really talked about it.”

“Oh. Doesn’t he leave soon though?”

“January.” She said it casually.

“Inds that’s next month.”

“We’ll figure it out.”

Charlie had a million more questions, but she held her tongue and sipped her coffee.

“I’ve gotta pack, our flight leaves in a few hours. I’m assuming you don’t have any breakfast food.”

“Actually, I do, but I’m not the breakfast chef around here.”

She sat her mug down on the counter and threw Charlie a wink before she headed back into her room as quietly as she could, sneaking up to the edge of the bed. Grayson had rolled to his stomach, something in his unconscious realizing that the pillow that he’d tossed away was in fact not his girlfriend. He almost looked too adorable to disturb.

Almost.

She went the gentle route, changing her mind on the pounce plan that she’d originally made. Instead, she crawled up the mattress and over his back, laying down on top of him with her cheek pressed to his warm shoulder.

He grunted a bit, but it turned into a sigh when she started peppering kisses along his skin.

“Mornin gorgeous,” he grumbled, eyes still closed. “What’re you doin’ back there?”

“Just hanging out.”

“Well- “ he rolled slightly, just enough to pull her over his side and onto the mattress so he could move right back with her underneath him -” maybe you should hang out down here instead.”

She relaxed into him like she always did, peppering kisses against his chest. Her hands ran over the ripples of muscles in his arms before she stopped and traced.

B-R-E-A-K-F-A

“Ahhh, so you didn’t just come in here for cuddles huh,” Grayson cut her off with a smile, quirking an eyebrow when she looked up at him.

“If you make us all avocado toast I’ll pay you in cuddles,” she offered. It puffed up Grayson’s chef alter ego just enough to convince him to get out of bed and throw some pants on. Indy stayed closed to him, soaking up the last bits of warmth from the morning as she helped him prep everything for breakfast. She could have done it, but Grayson’s pride at a very nicely laid out plate of avo toast, strawberries and honeydew was the best addition she could make. So she stuck to the coffees instead, passing over mugs as Devin appeared and Charlie followed, though she was still working on her cup from earlier.

“Well, now I see how he turned you into a breakfast person,” she said, graciously accepting a plate. They ate over quiet conversation, enjoying the last little bit of time they had before the airport and the inevitable goodbye. Grayson had bonded with the duo even more during their visit, and he was sad to see them having to leave again so soon. When Indy went to change, Grayson followed her, frowning when she didn’t pick her warmest jacket.

“It’s supposed to get really cold out, you’ll probably want your big one,” he said as subtly as he could, popping his knuckles as he spoke.

“I thought it was supposed to be a little warmer today,” she pouted. “We’re only gonna be outside to walk to the car.”

“Right, but you’re always cold. Just wear that one.” He gave her his most dazzling smile and she gave in, sliding in on before she left. Grayson was grateful that she listened - it meant he didn’t have to reveal his final graduation surprise too soon. He bit his tongue on the drive to the airport, gave out his hugs to Charlie and Devin, squeezing Indy into his side when she sniffled at the sight of her sister disappearing into the terminal.

Indy didn’t have a single suspicion until Grayson took a different turn into the city, much earlier than usual - 50th, instead of 26th.

“Bub? This is the wrong way.”

“No it isn’t.”

“We get off on 26th for the garage.”

“We aren’t going to the garage.” He couldn’t keep the smile off his face - the sheepish one that always made Indy’s heart flutter. She’d seen it so many times, but it still had the same effect on her every single time.

“Well then where are we going?” There was a childlike excitement in her voice that made Grayson laugh. He pulled her hand up to his face, kissed her skin softly.

“You’ll see.”

The first stop it seemed, was a jewelry store.

“This is not the surprise by the way, just an errand. Gotta pick up a christmas gift for mom.”

“I was gonna get her a sweater for christmas, do you think she’ll like that?”

“Li does love a good sweater. She’ll love anything you get her though, you’re the favorite.”

Indy rolled her eyes but didn’t respond as one of the workers came up and asked what they were there for. When Grayson gave his name she headed to the back and came back out with a small box.

“May I?” She asked.

Grayson nodded, waiting for her to open it. Inside was a beautiful ring, silver and delicate, with a large light blue stone in a princess cut.

“It’s beautiful,” Indy mused.

“Blue topaz. My dad’s birthstone. Mine and E’s too. You think she’ll like it?”

“Gray she’ll love it, of course she’ll love it.”

“I hope so.” His nerves were evident - he was always on a mission to make sure that his mom still had a good Christmas, although she always said all she needed was to have her kids back under her roof for the day. He paid the final portion of the ring payment and slipped the box into his pocket, waiting until they were back outside to turn to Indy with a wide smile.

“Now, we really celebrate.”

They walked hand in hand down the street. Indy kept her protests to herself - she wasn’t used to being spoiled in any way. In fact, it still made her uncomfortable when anyone spent money on her in any form, but she tried to remind herself that money didn’t mean the same thing to him as it did to her. So when they strolled up to one of the nicer restaurants in the city for a late lunch, she bit her tongue and tried not to think about the prices, following him inside to the warmth. It was dimly lit, the type of place where the host would take your coat off and pull your chair out for you.

Grayson beat him to it, fingers brushing over her shoulders while he pulled her coat off. She felt underdressed in just jeans and a sweater, but he looked at her like she hung the moon for him and him alone, and she wondered for a moment if there would ever be a day in their lives together that he couldn’t make her blush just by looking at her.

The menu didn’t even have prices next to the items, and it made Indy’s mouth dry enough for her to finish her water before the waiter even came back for their order.

Grayson noticed. He always noticed. He reached a hand across the small table for her hand, thumb running over her smooth acrylics that she’d gotten pre-graduation.

“Why are you nervous bub?”

“This place is expensive,” she explained after a moment’s hesitation.

“And graduating college a year early is a feat worth celebrating,” he reminded her, raising up his wine glass filled with water. “Despite the fact that you seem to hate being celebrated.”

“I don’t hate being celebrated. I’m just… not used to it I guess. Wasn’t a big Cross family thing, even before.”

“Well, it’s a big Dolan family thing.”

“I guess I better get used to it then.”

She clinked her glass against his as he swallowed hard, the movement of his throat hidden by the lighting. He pushed the thoughts from his head, the constant nagging he seemed to never be able to escape from, the better part of his conscience begging him to do the right thing, to tell her what he was thinking. She didn’t deserve for him to drag it out if he really was going to end things - she deserved so much more, more than he could give her with the life that he led. But every time he thought he had the courage to say something she’d reel him back in with a smile, or a witty comment, or just a look, entirely unaware of what she was doing. And he couldn’t imagine her anywhere else but the spot that she’d managed to carve out in his soul in just a few short months. He knew deep down he’d never find anyone else to fill it, but he also knew that she deserved to live the life she wanted to. A life without a boyfriend whose life interfered with hers. He just didn’t know how to reconcile with the fact that he would break her heart, and his own in the process.

So, he ignored his conscience and gave in to the selfish side of himself.

When she asked where he’d gone, he said he was planning, and it wasn’t a lie. If he was only going to have so many days with her, he wasn’t willing to sacrifice a single moment.

So he held her hand on top of the table while they waited for their food, striking up a conversation about college memories and her classmates that she would miss the most. The food was as incredible as he expected, and he made a mental note to thank Ethan for the recommendation. Grayson made sure that Indy didn’t see the inside of the bill when the waiter brought it, even being careful to slip the $200 in cash in the billfold practically under the table.

He led her back out into the cold, for once thankful for the early sunset of NYC that already had the city lights glowing against the fading sky. There was something magical about it, about existing on the streets with so many other people, knowing each one of them had their own story and life that they led. Indy people watched as Grayson led her safely down the streets, letting her cling onto his arm for comfort and warmth. It was only a few blocks until they saw the metallic flags and turned the corner to find the Rockefeller Center tree, massive and glorious in its height. It was speckled with what seemed like millions of lights, all twinkling in bright colors amongst the branches.

“Wow.”

Grayson watched the wonder on her face with a chuckle. “You’re a New Yorker, aren’t you supposed to be used to this shit?”

She smacked his arm, but kept her eyes forward. “I haven’t been to see it in years. It’s beautiful.”

He looked at her. “Yeah. Beautiful.”

He let her admire it as long as she wanted, resting his cheek against the top of her head when she leaned over on him.

“You wanna get closer?”

She frowned at him. “How?”

Grayson started walking with her in tow, down the stairs and around the plaza until he got to the ground level, fishing two tickets out of his jacket pocket for the attendant at the front of the ice rink. Indiana squeezed his arm.

“Gray. Baby, this is so sweet, but I can’t skate for shit.”

“Why am I not surprised,” he laughed, shaking his head before he kissed her forehead. “I won’t let you fall. Promise.”

They checked out their skates quickly, lacing up on one of the benches before Indy rose on wobbly feet, immediately letting out a squeal and reaching for her boyfriend. He caught her with a laugh, adjusting his own balance before they started walking to the edge of the ice. That familiar Grayson confidence was evident as he stepped on, getting his bearings before he reached out a hand for her.

“C’mon, I’ve got you. You got this, just one foot at a time.”

She grabbed both his hands and let him counteract her weight as she tried to get her footing, finally finding her balance after a moment of wobbling.

“Okay, now push off with one foot and glide with the other. Like this.”

He went to let go to demonstrate, and she clung to his hands with a squeak. “Don’t let go!”

Grayson’s cackle bounced off the ice. “Okay, okay! I’m right here, you’re good. Just try.”

Indy didn’t like not being good at things. But god was she terrible at ice skating. It didn’t matter how much instruction Grayson tried to give her, it was like it refused to translate into the movement of her legs. She was adorable when she was frustrated, but Grayson wanted it to be enjoyable for her too, so after a few laps around of watching her struggle he slid behind her, hands solid on her hips.

“Just keep your legs and feet straight, and I’ll do the rest.”

She held onto his hands as he started to push her along - she’d forgotten that he was annoyingly athletic but the feeling of actually gliding across the ice kept her from teasing him about it. It was peaceful, and despite the crowd both on the ice and above them by the tree, she felt like they were the only two in the city.

Grayson took them through the middle after they’d gone around a few times, towards the center for one pass and she squeezed his hand when they got there.

“Wait, stop!”

He turned his skates, throwing a bit of ice onto her ankles on accident, peaking over her shoulder.

“What’s up?”

“Turn me around. Please.”

He did as she asked, faster than he meant to, and it had her nails digging into his shoulders as he tried to hold her up without them both going down. She was breathing fast when he got them steady, quirking an eyebrow.

“We gotta take a picture in front of the tree!”

He obliged, pulling his phone out of his pocket and turning them slowly until the tree was behind them, snapping a few of the two of them smiling before he kissed her cheek, and then her lips, randomly pressing the button and hoping they were still in frame.

Her lips were cold against his, and tasted like the vanilla chapstick she’d put on before they’d left the restaurant. It sent tingles down the back of his neck that made him put his phone back in his pocket and pull her closer to him.

Wrong move. He’d never met someone so uncoordinated in his life, and it was the closest call of them all when her legs started to flail. His only hope of saving her from hitting the ice was to pick her up fully and hope that he could keep his balance with the sudden weight shift.

“Sorry,” she said sheepishly, clinging to his neck while he laughed.

“What am I gonna do with you,” he teased, and in a moment of confidence he dipped her down like they were dancing and kissed her again. The same tingle went down his neck, the hair there standing up, still there even when he sat her on her skates again, keeping an arm wrapped around her waist.

Above them, as if someone had turned on a machine, it began to snow. Big fluffy flakes fell around them, disappearing into Indy’s light hair and speckling the top of Grayson’s. It was magic in its simplest form, and Indy couldn’t help but beam at him.

“I love you. So much.”

“I love you more,” he said, and he meant it.

They headed off the ice a few minutes before their session expired, unlacing their boots with numb fingers that they shoved in their pockets for the walk back to the truck. As soon as they climbed in the cab Grayson blasted the heat and opened an arm for Indy to cuddle up next to him. Once they were thawed enough, Grayson proposed the idea of hot chocolate, specifically to help the fact that Indy’s teeth were still chattering. Which was how they ended up at Jet’s 40 minutes later, squished together in the blue chair by the window, watching the snow fall as they sipped peppermint hot chocolates that Patrick had given them on the house. Grayson dropped a 20 in the tip jar anyways.

The lobby was busy, with people in and out constantly, wiping the snow off their shoes as best they could on the small doormat. They shuffled through the line, a few of them sitting down for a moment to wait for their names to be called. Indy was used to the bustle, though she felt a bit guilty that she wasn’t behind the bar helping out when she had the skills to. Instead, she just smiled any time a barista looked her way, and spent the rest of her time watching the snow outside.

Grayson’s eyes were on a girl. A few girls, actually, who looked oddly familiar though he couldn’t place where he’d seen them before. They’d sat at a table towards the back of the store, having come in right behind him and Indy. But since then they’d moved forward one table, and then another, and the not so subtle way that two of them had angled their phone had that familiar prickle at the back of his neck rising again. He shifted in his chair quickly, turning his head away and attempting to do his best to block the view of Indiana.

“Hey, you ready to get outta here?”

“Did you finish already?” She asked, surprised considering her cup was still half full.

“Yeah,” he lied. “Just figured we could get home and change into some cozy pjs is all.”

“That sounds nice.” Indy moved in to kiss his cheek, and though he tried to pull away, he didn’t do it fast enough.

“You alright?”

“Yeah, I’m good.” Two for two. “Let’s just get home.”

The walk was as short as ever, but it was enough time for Indy’s mind to race. Had he been annoyed that she said something about the restaurant being expensive? Maybe he hadn’t wanted to help her ice skate - most people could at least hold themselves up on the rails at least. But he’d seemed so happy, which somehow made her feel worse, that she’d missed it somehow.

By the time they made it to the elevator, she was borderline panicking.

“Are you sure you’re okay? Did I do something?”

Her words broke Grayson out of his own thoughts, and he rushed into reassurances.

“No, it’s not you baby. It’s not, I promise.”

“Then what is it? And don’t say it’s nothing.”

“I’m good, really. Just wanted to get home.”

For the first time in her almost three months of knowing Grayson, she didn’t believe him. But she knew when to drop a subject, so she just nodded and followed him out of the elevator.

Half of Grayson’s wardrobe seemed to have migrated into Indy’s apartment, so it wasn’t hard to find cozy clothes that had them curled up together on the couch in no time. Grayson felt guilty, and tried to distract himself by running his fingers through her soft hair, tried to focus on the weight of her leaned against him. She was quiet as she scrolled through show after show, not really looking. She picked a random cooking show eventually just to fill the silence in the room, moving to lay across Graysons lap. His hand moved under her shirt, fingers still a bit cold as he ran them lightly over her skin.

She didn’t say anything, just glad to have him there with her. She traced on top of his sweatpants, shapes and words, L-O-V-E-Y-O-U and T-H-A-N-K-Y-O-U. The fabric was so thick that he could barely make out what she was writing.

“Thank you? For what?”

She rolled over so she was looking up at him. “For today. For celebrating me.”

He traced a thumb over her cheek. “You’re welcome. I love you. So much.”

“C’mere,” Indy said, reaching up for him. It took some shifting, but eventually they got settled where they were laying together on the couch, with her pressed between the cushions and his chest. She was warm as she kissed him, slow and calculated, trying to get across to him that she was there for whatever he was going through without the words. He reciprocated, but his mind was still spinning, images of the girls and their phones behind his eyelids.

The kiss faded out into cuddles which faded into an uncomfortable silence that Indy was desperate to resolve.

“What’s the update on the tiny homes? Weren’t the floor guys supposed to come in yesterday?”

“Yeah, Ethan went out there and said they were almost done. We’ve got some interior designers coming out tomorrow and then they’ll be done-done,” Grayson explained, heart rate rising as yet another opportunity to tell her came up.

“They really got those done so fast. I guess that’s a perk of a tiny home though, not much floor space to floor. How often do you guys think you’re gonna come out and stay in them?”

He licked his lips, trying to find the right words to tell her.

“Well, actually-”

His phone buzzed in his pocket - a call from Ethan.

He didn’t know whether to feel grateful or annoyed, but he fished his phone out of his pocket anyways, sliding over to answer.

“Yo.”

“Hey, mom wants to put up the christmas decs tomorrow cause she still doesn’t have them up. You remember where we put the lights?”

“Yeah, they’re in the attic I think, with the tree.”

“Well, you’re the family santa, so get your ass out here early tomorrow to hang some lights. And bring Indy too, I’ll make breakfast.”

“Don’t make breakfast, we’ll bring donuts or something.”

“Fuck you, be here at 10.”

He hung up, making Grayson roll his eyes and look down at Indy.

“You up for Christmas decorating tomorrow at home tomorrow?”

“Yeah, that sounds like fun! But I’m sure as fuck not getting on the roof.”

He kissed her forehead. “I’ll do the roof, you can do the stuff inside with Ma. Deal?”

“Deal,” she smiled, wiggling up to kiss him again, trying to chase out the rest of her worries before she curled up into his chest.

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

The snow had piled onto the sides of the highway in ugly mounds stained with dirt and asphalt drudged up by the plows. So Indy kept her eyes on the trees as they flew by, specifically the evergreens she saw, with their green bristles weighted down with white, heavy and thick.

“Are you sure you guys wanna get on the roof with all this? Won’t it be slick?”

“Nah, Dad used to do it all the time. I’ll just make E shovel while I try to find the clips we put up there last year. Besides, if I fall off I’ve got a doctor to mend me up,” he teased, squeezing her leg.

“I’m not a doctor yet.”

“Okay, well an almost doctor then. How many years until you’re actually one again?”

“11 years minimum. Well, 10 for me cause I skipped a year in undergrad. But it could be up to 16, depending on how long my residency would go.”

“And you’re gonna do it all through JCU?”

“Yeah, that’s the plan right now,” she mumbled, eyes still focused out the window.

“Hey,” he got her attention, waiting for her to turn to him. “You’re gonna be an amazing doctor someday. You’re gonna help so many people. Just having you in the room, doing the little things for people, that’s gonna mean more to those people than you even realize. They’re gonna be really lucky to have you.”

The sentiment seemed to arise out of nowhere, but she still blushed at his kind words. “The little things are actually more the nurses, but thank you.”

He let her watch the trees for the rest of the drive, and she was so focused on them that she barely noticed Ethan already on the roof when they pulled in.

He had a bright orange shovel in his hands, the scoop full of snow that he began to swing back and forth once they stepped out of the car, shoes crunching the snow below them.

“Don’t you dare!” Indy called, but it was too late. The snow was already flying and she squealed, grabbing Grayson and pulling him out of the way while it rained down right where they had been standing.

A moment later and Lisa was outside, hands on her hip with the menacing energy only a mom could produce.

“Ethan Grant! That’s how you fall and bust your fucking head open! Knock it off!”

Grayson bit back a laugh when Ethan kicked a tiny bit more snow off the edge so it sprinkled down by Lisa.

“Will you get up there before he falls off please?” She turned to Grayson, exasperated. “Indy, come in, it’s cold.”

It was Indiana’s turn to laugh when Lisa hooked their arms together and led her into the house, leaving Grayson out in the snow. He grabbed the lights that Ethan had already gotten out, looping his arm through before he headed up the ladder at the lowest point of the roof.

“I’ve already done the other side of the house, so I’m just here for moral support and to save your ass if I need to, my job is done,” Ethan explained, moving over to a spot by the chimney to sit down.

“Oh yeah, you shoveled on a downhill slope, the horror,” Grayson muttered, but in all honesty he would rather do the lights himself anyways.

They talked about the tiny homes and the final touches they needed while Grayson moved around the roof carefully, trying to counteract his balance when he got closer to the edge, cursing his mom silently for having roofs so high that they couldn’t do it from the top of a ladder.

The front of the house went without incident, and Ethan begrudgingly helped by holding the extra lights while Gray strung them. But when Ethan went down the ladder to get the next strand to connect, he took a minute too long to come back up. Grayson tried to use what little patience he was born with, but it fizzled out quickly, making him stomp across the roof to the edge.

“Yo, what the fucks taking so long?”

“Gray.”

“Can you not find them or what?”

“Grayson.”

He didn’t like the tone of his brother’s voice.

“What? What happened?”

“Come down here.”

Grayson took the ladder so quickly that his feet almost slipped, but he was at his brother’s side in a moment, taking his phone that he had outstretched.

His stomach dropped into the snow under his feet as he began to scroll with a numb thumb. There were pictures. So many pictures, and Indy was in every single one of them. Tweet after tweet with different screenshots of the two of them - looking at the tree, ice skating, sitting in Jets, even walking down the street. He pieced it together, realized that the reason the girls had looked familiar was because they’d followed them.

“Fuck. Fuck.”

Bile rose in his throat when he found a video, zoomed in as far as it would go with surprising quality as he pushed Indy along on the ice, towards the middle of the rink. He watched her squeeze his hands and laugh, watched himself turn her around so they could get their picture, watched himself kiss her cheek and her lips.

He didn’t want to read, but he couldn’t help himself. There were a few familiar handles that talked about how happy they were for him, but the majority of it was exactly what he expected.

So much for ‘working on himself’ he’s back on the constant girlfriend trend

Didn’t think she was his type but okayyyyy I guess 🥴

When we said we didn’t want Grayson to end up with an LA girl, we didn’t mean ~that~

Her insta is indiana.jamie, i’ve never even heard of her

The worst was a two set of images from Jet’s, where her face was in plain view. The second one had edited lighting, and was zoomed in on his pocket, with the text above it.

Look I know I sound crazy but WTF IS IN HIS POCKET? IS THAT A RING BOX? GRAY BABY NOOOOOOO

“Fuck.” He couldn’t find another word, and Ethan was no help. A call from Adele came in on his phone, and E looked at him for approval. He just nodded and let him answer, turning away and heading into the house, not even bothering to clean his boots.

“Dee! Indiana!”

“In here!” She called back and he jogged into the living room, not realizing he was breathless until he got there and saw that the tree had been assembled. She had an ornament in her hand when he ran in and she put it on the tree quickly, her stomach tightening at the look on his face.

“What happened? Are you okay?”

“Where’s your phone, have you looked at your phone?”

“It’s over there, it’s just been playing music. Baby what’s wrong?”

He ran over to it, muttering out a ‘shit’ when the screen lit up, both at the flood of notifications and the fact that her lockscreen had changed to their picture from the ice.

“Woah.” She took her phone from him, unlocking it and heading after all the notifications on instagram. “Holy shit. I got 3,500 new followers, what the fuck?”

“Indy, I’m so fucking sorry. I’m so sorry.”

She closed her phone and looked at him, putting a hand on his shoulder. “For what?”

“I should have thought about it, there’s not usually paps in New York, I didn’t even think about fans, and now everyone’s tweeting a bunch of bullshit about you, I’m just, fuck, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.”

“Slow down,” she murmured, hand moving to his face. She saw Lisa leave the room out of the corner of her eye, but she kept looking at Grayson. “It’s okay. We knew this was going to happen.”

“They saw the ring box in my pocket in some of the pictures, they probably think we’re fucking engaged, and they’re gonna be relentless. Every time you get online you’re gonna see some bullshit about you because of me.”

“Gray, it’s alright. It’s okay, I can handle it.”

“No, you can’t, nobody can, it’s gonna get to you. If you say it doesn’t effect you, you’re fucking lying.” He ran his hands through his hair and then down over his face, sucking in a breath that Indiana recognized.

“Gray, don’t cry. Look, look.” She unlocked her phone again, exited instagram and held down until it shook, deleting it quickly from her phone. “I don’t even post much anyways. And I don’t have a twitter, I’m not gonna see what they say about me. I don’t care, I promise you I don’t.”

Her gut told her a different story. Though it wasn’t her favorite quality of herself, Indy liked to be liked. It was natural, but she sought validation from other people more than she wanted to, and it made her dangerously curious to see what had caused such a visceral reaction in her boyfriend.

“I’m sorry,” he said again, dropping his head. She got up on her tiptoes and pressed a kiss to his forehead.

“It’s okay. We’re okay. It’s not your fault.”

And for the first time in his almost three months of knowing Indiana, he didn’t believe her.

#WOOOOOO #I hope you guys like it!#let me know what you think pls :')#mixtape #grayson dolan #grayson dolan fanfiction #grayson dolan fanfic

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