#wanting a sugar daddy or to be a stay at home wife/husband is cool

[thesoftestblackguy]

I don’t think people understand the obligation and commitment it takes for someone to “take care” of another human being. No matter who that human is or what type of relation they have, it could be an infant with their parents, a wife with their husband, a sugar baby with their sugar daddy, it takes aLOT for one human to satisfy and meet all the wants/needs of another human being, and folks really just be throwing that phrase “I want someone to take care of me” around lightly like it’s a simple task.

#especially in today’s times #like literally everyone is struggling #no working class citizen is getting by easily #everyone is stressed #fighting to pay bills on time #fighting to eat #fighting to survive #having the obligation of being the sole provider for another human being is very difficult for anyone #I mean unless that person is rich #but let’s face it how many rich people are out there in the world that are willing to do that? #especially not for someone who offers little to nothing in return for them #mfs just need to be realistic #like wanting a baby is cool #but it’s expensive and requires a lot of time and energy #wanting a sugar daddy or to be a stay at home wife/husband is cool #but the economy is trash and unless the sugar daddy/mommy or the husband/wife is rich that shit will be extremely difficult and taxing #random thoughts

[lovecanyon]

Y/N STYLES & HARRY STYLES GO UNDERCOVER ON THE INTERNET | ACTUALLY ME | GQ

103M views • 8 hours ago

GQ

-

"Hello I’m Harry Styles."

"And I’m Y/N Styles. Today we’re going to answer questions that you guys asked us on the internet." Y/N introduces herself. She tries to keep a straight face but when she glances at her husband she bursts out laughing.

"I don’t think she’s gonna be serious today." Harry breathes out a laugh. He looks at Y/N who was smiling uncontrollably, still trying to quiet down her laughter. "See!"

"Don’t look at me. I’ll laugh." Y/N averts her eyes to the table in front of her. A few laughs come from the crew behind the camera.

"Okay well I—"

"Sorry." Y/N cuts Harry off with a giggle making the whole room start laughing. He side eyes her with a smile knowing that they’re not going to take this interview serious.

It took Y/N a few seconds to regain her seriousness but once Harry sends her a stupid grin more laughs came from her along with the rest of the people in the room with them.

"I don’t know how we’re going to be serious." Harry closes his eyes smiling.

-

"First we have Twitter."

"I’m scared." Harry mumbles leaning over Y/N’s shoulder looking at the laptop screen. She pecks his cheek before pressing on one of the questions that was already picked out for them. "I wonder how Y/N feels to be married to Harry Styles?" He reads out loud which makes Y/N start laughing.

"I mean it’s cool." Y/N shrugs making her husband look jokingly offended. "All jokes aside. I love being married to my best friend."

A grin forms on Harry’s face as his cheeks turn red. It was cute the way he immediately got flustered at his wife calling him her best friend. Truly they were best friends, right when they met, both of them were just drawn to each other.

Everyone knew they were made for each other. The first time Harry introduced Y/N to his friends and family, they all knew she was his soulmate. Y/N definitely was the female version of him.

"I’m very honored to be your best friend." Harry beams wrapping his arm around Y/N’s chair leaning closer to her. His move made her stomach flutter with butterflies.

"You better be. Sarah will fight you for that title." She jokes. "Moving onto the next question…How does Y/N react to getting songs written about her?"

Looking up at the ceiling, Y/N squints trying to find the correct words as Harry begins to chuckle beside her. Every time he would write about her, he would tell her which made her fall even more in love with him—if that was possible.

It made Y/N feel warm inside at the fact Harry thought about her for inspiration. She was his muse. Every girl in the world would kill to be in her position and she knew that.

"How do you react darling?" Harry questions Y/N making her cheeks deeply redden. He picks up on that and it makes a smile appear on his face.

"It just depends on the song H." Y/N turns her body to face Harry who just continued to stare intently at her.

"Watermelon Sugar." Harry coughs into his hand 'attempting' to hide his words.

"Harry I swear to god."

-

"Next Instagram!"

Harry and Y/N were on a Instagram posts comment section, specifically the one Harry posted about Inez and Beau.

"I wonder what is Harry’s favorite memory of his children?" Y/N reads out loud. Right away a bunch of memories of his two children came to mind. There was one time when Inez and Beau had both made him pearl necklaces for his birthday, or he could say when they helped him propose to their mother.

Too many happy memories came to mind and it was difficult to sit here and not tell the camera every single one of them.

"Definitely when Beau first met Inez." Harry says remembering the moment when they brought their newborn daughter home.

"This is your sister!"

"She has your eyes daddy!" Beau tells his father who grins at his words. Harry wanted to stay in this moment forever, watching his son stare lovingly at Inez.

A head digging into his shoulder makes his grin even more wider. The sweet familiar scent he dearly loved so much made him lean into his soulmates arms. He definitely was content with his life.

Being in his partners arms while staring at their two angels couldn’t be anymore better.

"I love you." Y/N mumbles leaving a small kiss on Harry’s neck. Moving his arm, he grabs onto her hand and brings it to his mouth for a kiss. "So much."

"I love you. More than you’ll ever know."

"That day was so cute." Y/N sighs out in awe remembering the scene of a newborn Inez in Beau’s arms. She loved and cared for her kids so much, it got to the point where her camera roll was full of children’s clothes and toys—same with Harry.

Everyone that knew them, knew they had always dreamed of starting a family. Now finally their friends and family were seeing that happen.

-

"TikTok!"

"I’m definitely scared for this one." Harry laughs shaking his head. Y/N glances at him with a huge smile knowing he had a certain distaste for the app.

"This is the comment section from my recent video with Harry and—" Y/N cuts herself off with a laugh. The TikTok she did—more like forced—with Harry was a stupid dance. After hours of begging him he finally had gave in and recorded the TikTok with her.

Once glance at the comment section had Y/N into tears. She had her hand wrapped around her mouth as she tried to control her laughs. Harry had also tried to keep his laughs in but when he read one of the comments he bursts out laughing.

You could tell that Harry and Y/N were truly made for each other. Each laugh and smile was created from each other.

"First question. Were we scared to announce our relationship at Dunkirk premiere?"

"I mean sort of but we knew we’d be fine if we stayed together all night, which we did." Y/N answers making Harry nod, agreeing.

Truly when they were together, they’re unstoppable. Both brought out the best in each other. Most of their close friends and family members were aware of that. Sarah had always told Y/N that she was the exact female version of Harry, right down to the music choices and friendliness.

A lot of people including the public had pointed it out. Y/N was perfectly made for Harry, it was like the gods had sent her down from heaven just for him.

He loved her so much.

"And that’s it folks! Hope you enjoyed this because I don’t think we’re doing any more interviews!” Harry cheers making the whole room start laughing.

"Basically yeah!" Y/N nods.

-

tag list : @harrysmatcha @harryspinkpillow @helen-with-an-a @florencepughily @peterparkerbae @toji-dabi-wife @fallonx @cherriesrae @alienorknight @valluvsu @drphilssoulmate @ivegotparticulartaste @ayeshathestyles @hazgoldenstyles @eiffelmezarry @tsukishimawhore @renatavieira @michellekstyles @eleanordaisy @shawnsblue @academiaghosts @japanchrry @agustdpeach @hannahnikohl @hrryscherrys @whoscamila @ch3rryrry @msolbesg @newyorker14 @futuristicpalacegardenpsychic @youusunshineyoutemptress @eunoiamaa @kaitieskidmore1 @gublerscherry @cherryfragrancx @ssuziess @milkiane @diorsitgirl @golden-hoax @helen-with-an-a @imthegoofyvillain @flwrmuse @leah2002 @sunshinemendes8 @your--sweetest--downfall @melllinaa @riverjane-d

#harry styles x reader #dad!harry #harry styles #husband!harry #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles au #harry styles x y/n #harry styles x you #harry styles writing #harry styles one shot #harry styles fan fic #harry styles fluff

[bucky-hues]

bucky barnes fic recs

here are some bucky fics i loved reading!

many of these are 18+ and there are some dark fics in here, so please read the warnings for each fic! if any of the writers i’ve included want anything removed/edited, please let me know!

one shots

jack pendleton | @roger-that-cap

author!bucky x reader

moving into an apartment to get away from your last relationship was fun all fun and games until you met your extremely attractive across-the-hall neighbor, who makes awesome cookies and even better novels.

grip | @pellucid-constellations

bucky x reader

You knew Bucky didn’t like his arm. You just didn’t know how much until he accidentally hurt you with it.

voicemails to an unmanned inbox | @pellucid-constellations

bucky x reader

When Bucky takes an argument a little too far, you take off. All he wants is for you to come back home.

can’t get the words out | @pellucid-constellations

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky’s been awfully distant lately. You don’t think your heart can take what you know he’s about to say.

his everything | @likeahorribledream

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky has trouble talking about his feelings and he ends up pushing away the one person he needs the most.

eavesdrop | @bestofbucky

bucky x avenger!reader

things spies don't notice | @starrysebastians

bucky x avenger!reader

don't you worry (your pretty little head) | @babyboibucky

guitarist!bucky x reader

You agree to spend twelve hours with Bucky whom you just met.

suburbia | @wkemeup

bucky x avenger!reader

Posing as husband and wife, you and Bucky infiltrate a quaint suburban neighborhood in search of a Hydra hacker. Perhaps if you weren’t so in love with him and he hadn’t broken your heart, the act of pretending wouldn’t hurt so much.

sparklin' eyes | @19ana45

roommate!bucky x reader

Prompt: Character A’s current boyfriend/girlfriend/partner mocks Character B for their crush on their best friend, [A]. [B], feeling humiliated, withdraws from the friendship with [A], who is completely oblivious [B] has feelings for them.

reoccurring face | @swtbbybarnes

bucky x reader

he’s been around a lot lately, sometimes multiple times a day, and you’re starting to wonder how much coffee one man can actually drink.

falling for you | @comfortbucky

roommate!bucky

moving on | @bucky-bucket-barnes

bucky x reader

After Bucky had been missing for a year, you had presumed him dead. Time passed, yet you seemed unable to move on from his death. That was until a familiar face came to your doorstep one winter night.

bucky bitchass barnes to the rescue | @bucky-bucket-barnes

bucky x avenger!reader

In an attempt to escape from hectic life as an Avenger, you decided to go out on a date. Unfortunately, you got stood up. While Bucky hates you, he hates seeing you embarrassed more and decides to fill in for your M.I.A. date.

pansies, pain, and other things about bucky | @bucky-bucket-barnes

bucky x avenger!reader

You and Bucky are begrudgingly paired on a mission together. This is less than ideal considering neither of you are too keen on the other tagging along. All goes as normal until a surprise attack severely hurts both of you. Feeling incredibly guilty, Bucky helps you tend to your wounds. He has trouble admitting it, but he wants to make sure you’re safe.

the lost converse | @firefly-in-darkness

bucky x reader

Last nights party was a bit of a mad one, what do you do when you wake up in someone else’s bed?

nervous | @dailyreverie

bucky x reader

A nervous Bucky introduces you to his fellow Avengers during game night

fever | @dailyreverie

bucky x reader

a little old fashioned | @gogolucky13

bucky x reader

Bucky is a bit subtle in telling you he likes you.

sweetart | @onlyjamesbarnes

soft!bucky x baker!reader

your best friend bucky tries to stay platonic with you, letting you live out your dreams, but his instincts soon get the better of him.

the things you've done | @divine-mistake

bucky x reader

what if the world ended tomorrow and all he did was spend his last day with you thinking about how you never hold his metal hand and you never walk on his left side and you constantly reach out for his right arm?

do you still love me? | @thatfangirl42

bucky x reader

2:00am | @thatfangirl42

bucky x avenger!reader

miscommunications | @empyreanwritings

bucky x avenger!reader

cookies, kisses, and such | @sweetbucky

neighbour!bucky

pretending | @multifandomwriter

bucky x reader

Bucky notices you at a party and is instantly attracted to you. Steve instantly notices the lovestruck look in his eyes, but also his nerves that are stopping him from talking to you. So Steve plays on Bucky’s jealousy to get him to make a move.

good together | @irndad

bucky barnes x avenger!reader

bucky and his girlfriend are in secret, and they think they are absolutely perfect for each other. literally everyone else in the compound thinks bucky and nat are made for each other.

l-o-v-e | @irndad

college!bucky x reader

college!bucky meets reader in a library and it’s all downhill from there. He’s desperately in love and pining and it’s all ridiculous and he doesn’t think she could like him back.

tell me the truth | @bwhitewolfbarnes 

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky finds himself overhearing your conversation with his younger self, and he hates the way it makes him ache. He needs to know what is real.

the staring contest | @jobean12-blog

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky has a staring/glaring problem and you can’t figure out why!

lavender | @wkemeup

bucky x reader

Not every nightmare is the same and Bucky doesn’t always wake up as the man you know.

little lion man | @wkemeup

bucky x avenger!reader 

Sent on an assignment back to 1943, you encounter a drastically different version of the man you know

purgatory | @wkemeup

bucky x avenger!reader

While on a mission, Bucky becomes dissociated into the Winter Soldier. But instead of becoming a threat, his instinct is to protect.

i love you, you idiot | @chrisevansjellybeans 

bucky x reader

all the good things | @houseravenclaws 

bucky x avenger!reader

bucky’s been more than a little happy recently. sam thinks it has something to do with the pretty girl on the team.

tap | @houseravenclaws

bucky x avenger!reader

bucky never talked much. he fell in love anyway.

shaking | @clintbartonswife

bucky x avengers!reader

after you get injured on a mission, the usually stoic Bucky breaks, and you see a side to him that he’s kept hidden ever since his acceptance into the Avengers.

deserving | @hanoella 

bucky x healer!reader

When someone bad mouths Bucky in your presence, you set things straight.

keep me cool | @chouettedubois

bucky x avenger!reader

You and Bucky are on your third undercover mission acting as a couple. Things go awry when you fall ill. Cue caretaker!Bucky to the rescue.

on, off and repeat | @avasparks

neighbour!bucky x reader

i wished on the moon for you | @sunmoonandbucky 

bucky x reader

After losing Bucky, you were devastated. So when Howard Stark asks for volunteers for an experiment, you’re the first in line.

the hottest avenger | @watchmegetobsessed

bucky x avenger!reader

Being locked together with Sam and Bucky brings the worst out of you, picking on each other constantly. Following an arguement Bucky accidentally calls you his girlfriend in front of Sam when your relationship was supposed to be a secret.

hey daddy | @watchmegetobsessed

bucky x avenger!reader

You join Peter and his friends for a game of Truth Or Dare but you wish you stayed in your room when MJ challenges you to do a task that will definitely out your secret relationship with Bucky.

crash course | @watchmegetobsessed

bucky x reader

Bucky is a regular at the café where you work at and seeing him struggling with technology, you offer to help him, teaching him the basics while you are both thinking about taking it a little further than just a crash course.

little things | @watchmegetobsessed 

bucky x avenger!reader

missed chances | @soap-bubble-nebula 

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky is about to ask out the reader, but right before she could answer him her ex calls her up and she answers happily as she always wanted a second chance with said ex

truth or dare? | @soap-bubble-nebula 

bucky x avenger!reader

the experiment | @soap-bubble-nebula 

bucky x reader

make believe on christmas eve | @green-eyeddragonfanfiction 

bucky x reader

When your family insists you bring your [nonexistent] long-term boyfriend over for Christmas, you panic. You hadn’t expected to be put in this situation; you never thought you’d actually have to bring “him” over.

sick day | @nastybuckybarnes

bucky x avenger!reader

you tell a little white lie to escape Avenging for a day, and Bucky finds out. He’s hurt and upset, until he finds out your reason why.

spies and secrets | @barnesandco 

bucky x reader

Bucky buys a new jacket that is… uncharacteristically bright. Sam ribs him for it, and you- you don’t know what to do with yourself.

the bar rules | @buckyhoney (18+)

bartender!bucky x reader

the family lunch |  @buckyhoney​ (18+)

dad'sbestfriend!bucky x reader

forbidden fruit | @bucksfucks (18+)

dad'sbestfriend!bucky x reader

you attempt to set your ex’s things on fire. bucky has a better idea.

mr. brightside | @bucksfucks (18+)

ex'sdad!bucky x reader

the one where you fuck your ex's dad

left gasping for air | @bucksfucks (18+)

bucky x reader

doused with sex pollen, you & bucky are met with a difficult decision.

love me harder | @celestialbarnes (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

you and bucky have been flirting and screwing around for months now, after seeing him getting frisky with someone else, you decide to do the same and bucky’s just about had enough.

sweeter than sugar | @angrythingstarlight (18+)

chubbybaker!bucky x reader

look my way | @sableseb (18+)

neighbour!bucky x reader

boyfriend upgrade | @multifandomwriter (18+)

roommate!bucky x reader

You have always been close with your roommate, Bucky, but tensions start to rise when your boyfriend begins to stay over at your apartment. You feel like you’re drifting apart until Bucky accidentally sees you almost naked.

lure | @bccky (18+) dark

bucky x reader

it’s all about the perfect lure

plan | @sergeantxrogers (18+)

bucky x reader

“I was supposed to forget about you, and you were supposed to forget about me, but damn it if I could ever forget about you because since the day I saw you, you never left my mind and you were all I thought about,” he rambled, focusing on anything his eyes could land on that wasn’t you. “You’re… you’re still all I think about,” he whispered, voice tired and beaten, like the very sentence had been waiting in his throat for years just to get a chance to come out into the open.

play pretend | @wkemeup (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

When Bucky is injected with a substance that leaves him desperate for release, you offer your help.

you’re mine | @marveicinematics (18+)

bucky x reader

Having a secret relationship with a man as insecure and complex as James Buchanan Barnes may not have been the best idea you had, but one thing was certain: you knew how to make him feel better about the things that bothered him.

white lies and truth serum | @mariessecretfantasies (18+) dark

dark!bucky x avenger!reader

You and Bucky share a dance, a few too many drinks, and a night in bed together. Unfortunately, he neglects to tell you that he can’t get drunk.

bitter fruit | @divine-mistake (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

“The mission was already a success!” you say and you can feel tears burning the back of your eyes. You will yourself to blink them back. “You had the files, the base was set to detonate, I don’t understand why you didn’t just stay on the fucking jet.”

“Because you were going to die.”

always here | @simsadventures (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

You have an obvious crush on Bucky, and kind of hope he feels the same. But when you overhear agents talking about you, and then even Bucky, you realise there is no hope for you. At least you think there isn’t.

your captain | @onlyjamesbarnes (18+)

dark!bucky x reader, husband!steve x reader

a perfect anniversary night gets interrupted by his best friend, who happens to be your boss.

series/multi-chap

graveyard , sacrifice | @wkemeup

bucky x healer!reader

As the unofficial healer for the Avengers, you pride yourself on the ability to mend heroes with the touch of your hand. Only, your gift comes at a heavy price — one you keep secret from your friends —and when Bucky asks you to do the impossible, they’ll discover why your gift is called a sacrifice, too.

sunrise | @wkemeup​ (18+)

veteran!bucky x librarian!reader

After an explosion takes his arm and his only sense of belonging, Bucky is discharged from active duty and sent back to civilian life. Left with a storm of unchecked guilt, Bucky is content to live out the rest of his days in the hollow comfort of the dark. This is, until Sam drags him down to the local VA and he meets you.

TiMER | @xbuchananbarnes (ongoing) (18+)

bartender!bucky x reader (soulmate au)

“If a clock could count down to the exact moment you’ll meet your soulmate, would you want to know?”

the match | @babyboibucky (ongoing) (18+)

ceo!bucky x reader

You come across your boss’ Tinder profile.

the holiday hack | @gogolucky13 

bucky x reader (modern au)

You ask Bucky to be your stand-in boyfriend for your family’s Christmas party.

sexual healing , medicine | @gogolucky13 (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

You ask a touch-starved Bucky if he wants to try something new in an attempt to take your minds off work.

vacant mirrors | @whirlybirbs (18+)

bucky x reader

shit's been rough. shit was rough even before the blip. dr. hart shares an office with dr. raynor, and you share with waiting room with bucky barnes. set before tfatws; a friends-to-lovers, slowburn, eventual smut.

salvatore | @nsfwsebbie (18+) dark

dark!bucky x reader

Bucky Barnes doesn’t believe in love anymore. Especially after the tragic, unknown death of his wife, Natasha. He thinks it’s stupid and a waste of time and- oh my. Hello there, you. There you were, with your notebooks and your novels, writing your heart away. He’s hellbent on saving you from this nasty world, his elusive neighbor that has him under the stupid spell of love. You soon find yourself trapped in a tragic love story with Bluebeard, not Prince Charming.

polyonymous | @bubblebuckys

bucky x reader (social media au)

You met James on Twitter three months ago, and you’ve talked everyday since. You really like him, and you don’t think you’ve met anyone like him. That is, until the fateful night that brings the Avengers to you. You meet Bucky Barnes, and then you’re stuck choosing between two guys so alike you find yourself asking why they couldn’t be the same person.

going live , offline | @ritesofreverie (18+)

camboy!bucky x reader

your new neighbour looks so familiar, where had you seen him before?

heavy metal lover | @mypoisonedvine (ongoing) (18+)

sub!bucky x dominatrix!reader

working as a dominatrix is never exactly easy, but a new client brings challenges you never expected.

fake boyfriend real orgasms | @bucksfucks (ongoing) (18+)

roommate!bucky x reader

when bucky needs a date to sam’s wedding, he makes a deal with you. when it starts to turn into something a little more real, you realize how deep you’re in.

almost had me believing it | @tuiccim (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

An undercover operation playing Bucky Barnes’ wife is a dream come true. Playing house in the suburbs while trying to take down a drug ring brings you and Bucky closer but a nosy neighbor causes trouble in paradise.

it's brooklyn, baby | @my-divine-death (ongoing) (18+)

college!bucky x reader

hush 1 2 | @starbuckie (ongoing)

bucky x reader

in quiet corners and selfish moments, y/n and bucky have kept their relationship a secret, one love that was pure and untouched by the darkness that surrounded them. but after bucky is able to walk the streets a free man once again, will their love be able to survive?

misconceptions | @firefly-in-darkness (18+)

bucky x avenger!reader

Bucky Barnes overhears a conversation that he shouldn’t have…

what a night | @jurassicbarnes

bucky x reader

Bucky Barnes is out in the new world, navigating through everyday life and it’s trials and tribulations. His therapist insists he tries new things. He has collected a few new hobbies. But when it comes to making new acquaintances, what’s a better way to meet new people than a little dating site called Tinder.

hey, professor | @balenciagabucky (ongoing) (18+) dark

professor!bucky x reader

professor barnes always had his eye on you, you noticed it, your girlfriend noticed it, even his friends and after one raunchy photo sent to him, a joke, nothing more, in his world you become more than just a student

missing piece 1 2 3 4 | @likeahorribledream

bucky x avenger!reader

seeing red | @mypoisonedvine (18+)

bodyguard!bucky x actress!reader

bucky used to brag that he didn’t have a celebrity crush, or really care about famous people at all, which is what made him the perfect person to start working for a celebrity like yourself.  except, of course, it’s just his luck that he’d fall for you.

flight risk , no control | @wkemeup

bucky barnes x avenger!reader

Bucky becomes a flight risk after a failed mission and is put in lockup under Steve’s orders. Even though Bucky won’t say a word of what happened, you camp outside the door to his cell so he knows he isn’t alone.

bad match | @justreadingfics (18+)

bucky x reader

Bucky and the Reader are set up on a date, but things don’t go as well as expected.  

unbroken | @constantwriter85 (18+)

bucky x hacker!reader

Bucky isn’t happy about being paired with a snarky, untested hacker on a stealth mission to infiltrate Hammer Industries. But when the mission spirals out of control and they’re both captured, he finds out just how much heart his hacker has–and how far she’s willing to go to protect the lives of others.

if i only had a heart 1 2 | @chouettedubois​ (18+)

bucky x reader

Team Cap is back at the compound after being pardoned. Bucky is suffering from the shoddy work HYDRA did with his prosthetic. Tony brings reader in to fix it—and maybe help him find his heart in the process.

text me | @soap-bubble-nebula​ 

bucky x reader

Tony and the other’s are off on a mission, and it’s up to you to help Bucky get comfortable and assimilate into normal life. He texts you because Tony told him he could.

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x female reader #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes fanfic #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes fic #fic rec

[admirableadmiranda]

What do you think is the occupations of your fav MDZS characters in modern AU?

Ohh anon let me introduce you to some headcanons!!

Wei Wuxian: He definitely always has his parents or found family, he's not stuck with the Jiangs. I could go all sorts of places with him, because he's so talented and clever and good at so many things, but wherever it is he's making things and having a blast and making all the money to support...

Lan Wangji: his househusband. Listen, I know he's a great teacher, I'm sure he'd enjoy that, but what he's enjoying most is taking care of WWX. And he raised a child in canon. If it's a modern au and Wei Wuxian isn't being tied back by an incredibly classist society, Wei Wuxian is the breadwinner and Lan Wangji stays at home and raises the children and still fucks his husband until he begs for mercy every night. They're just great like that.

Lan Xichen: a lawyer, and not in the field he wants to be in. He's pretty decent wherever he is, but he'd be much happier in a different field and that smile is cracking day by day.

Lan Sizhui: being the best boy with both great adoptive parents and still getting to be loved and adored by his bio family as well. He is going to grow up to be so loved.

Lan Jingyi: Sizhui's little brother. The best boy. He's the one who's always covered in dirt and laughing, and he's going to grow up to be as cool as his dads.

The Lan Sect in general: hippies. Live in harmony with the earth and each other, get involved in protests and get in the way of things that are harmful to the earth. None of this rich austere family, we're going with first do no harm, second reach out and use your power to help things be better for all.

Jin Ling: The third baby. In a modern au where Xuanli still die there is no way that anyone comes close to being as great an option to raise him as Wangxian. He deserves a good loving family who understands that he's cranky because he loves and wants to protect them.

Nie Huaisang: He is a spoiled rich boy living on his inheritance and doing nothing just as he wanted. If he does anything with his day, it's collecting things. But he wants to do nothing with his life and it's valid for him to do nothing with his life.

Jin Guangyao: corporate drone who managed to use his father to get into a good job but he's just absolutely miserable because he can play the game so well but the bodies he's left in his wake to get where he is are coming back to haunt him. Whether this is figurative or literal depends on the fic.

Mianmian: Wei Wuxian's best friend, a probono lawyer who specifically goes and finds people who need help and can't afford it. Works with charities and is very big on helping those in need.

Wen Qing: Wei Wuxian's best big sister who is out being a cool doctor wherever she wants. Gets to live a happy life either with a wife or by herself, no scandals needed ever.

Wen Ning: Wei Wuxian's best little brother who is going to find himself a sugar daddy someday, even though his big brother is also happy to buy him whatever he wants. It's just not the same as finding some hot rich guy to spend a lot of money on you. Maybe he'll hook up with NHS in this.

Mo Xuanyu: the other wannabe sugar baby who definitely has something going on with NHS if I'm not shipping him with Wen Ning. May have committed a little murder in the past, but given that his family was definitely abusing him it's not like anyone really tried to do anything about it. Just ruled as self defense.

Jiang Fengmian: got to divorce his terror of a wife and rescue his poor daughter from that. Married for a second time to a kind woman who is nothing like YZY and is recovering and getting to be a happy man again.

Jiang Yanli: got to get far away from her mother and brother and live with her dad instead. Has a simple job and a simple home and a simple life with no contact with the family that does not care for her and is much happier for it. Volunteers at a soup kitchen sometimes and feeds everyone delicious soup. Let her have a kind quiet life. She and Wei Wuxian may not be super close but they like to spend time together.

Xiao Pingguo: Gets to be the family donkey and kick annoying people in the balls.

Wangxian rabbits: Get to be the family pets and loved and adored by everyone.

#mdzs #mdzs headcanons #mdzs modern au #wei wuxian #lan wangji #lan xichen #lan sect #lan sizhui #lan jingyi #jin ling #wen ning #nie huaisang #wen qing #jiang yanli #jiang fengmian #mo xuanyu #jin guangyao #xiao pingguo #wangxian bunnies #mianmian #asks #anon asks #this was a lot of fun #plz send more anon #long post

[angelhummel]

Task for you: Rank the Glee dads, then separately rank the Glee moms

(For Glee dads ik we didn’t meet many, but you could also use characters like Santana & Blaine’s dads since we’ve heard things about them)

Ahh I managed to think of a ton of moms and dads on the show lasfjsdkl there's 19 glee dads and 20 glee moms so buckle up. Hidden under a cut bc obviously its very long

Glee Dads!

Burt. There isn't much competition

Puck. Surprise! He wanted to be a good dad even tho he had no clue what he was doing

Hiram & Leroy. Idk what they did to Rachel but at least they're fun to watch on screen

Will Schuester. Wanted to be a dad so bad for the longest time. Was really cute with Daniel

Dwight Evans. Struggling really badly but tries to keep his family afloat

Al Motta. The whole glee club's sugar daddy fight me on it

Ryder's dad. We get one line about him but he's a single dad doing his best to raise his son <3

Will's dad. Didn't have anything to do but who doesn't love Victor Garber? Oh yeah, Victor Garber was on Glee

Paul Karofsky. Seemed like a chill dude but did raise Karofsky. Wasn't mentioned as hating him after he was outed so ?? points I guess

Michael Chang Sr. Was a dick at first but came around. Growth

Artie's dad. Was apparently available to drive him to sectionals in s1 but disappeared at some point between then and Wonderful. RIP Mr. Abrams

Mercedes's dad. Brings home the bacon but doesn't support Mercedes's dreams </3

Pierce Pierce. Annoying, waste of my time, not funny. Also not even Brittany's real dad despite the fact that they have so much in common

Puck & Jake's dad. A bum and an asshole but at least he mostly left them alone

Rusty Pillsbury. Racist against anyone who isn't ginger

Blaine & Santana's dads or dad maybe they're secretly related ooooh. Grade A assholes in my mind but it is mostly speculation and a couple of actual lines to go off of so idk. They don't actually exist but I don't like them

Rob Adams. Apparently chill with sending his kid to conversion camp? Evil

Russell Fabray. Nasty, evil, sexist, alcoholic, cheated on his wife, threw his pregnant 16 year old daughter out of the house. Electric chair

Christopher Hudson. Fought in the army and posthumously made Finn think he had to join the army. Made Carole have to raise Finn alone. Horrible man all around

Glee Moms!

Nancy Abrams. Apparently a single mother since her husband disappeared. Made her whole house wheelchair accessible singlehandedly. Very encouraging and supportive of Artie's dreams

Carole. Amazing woman, another amazing single mother. Is really great on her own but she did raise Finn so :/

Maribel Lopez. Was really nice and encouraging and accepting of Santana. Just wants what's best for her daughter and wants her to be happy

Jake's mom. Another hard working single mom. Raised Jake <3 Also is Aisha Tyler. What else do you have to say??

Millie Rose. Yet another single mother just doing her best. But also I think a lot of her encouragement of Marley was misguided and she ended up doing more harm than good alkjfsdlk even if her heart was in the right place and things were difficult

Emma Pillsbury. Feel like we hardly see her with her kid(s) but she's a good person so she'll be a good mom

Mary Evans. Doesn't understand why Dairy Queen makes Sam wear so much glitter. But seems nice and also works hard

Julia Chang. Seems nice, supports Mike's dreams more than his dad does. Should've stood up to her husband about it tho

Puck's mom. My reasons for putting her so low are purely speculative a la Mr. Lopez & Mr. Anderson. But. Single mom, working hard, etc etc

Will's mom. Alcoholic? Bad. Hooking up with Josh Groban? Great.

Judy Fabray. Also spineless, also an alcoholic. At least ended up kicking her ain't shit husband out of the house so that's good. We can pretend she got better

Whitney Pierce. Also annoying as fuck but at least it's Jennifer Coolidge. Yes Jennifer Coolidge was also on Glee

Pam Anderson. Seems nice but where was she for six years? Don't think she's actually Blaine's mom

Mercedes's mom. Also doesn't support her dreams. Also if that was her in 2009 then she was like "yes this girl is racist and belittles you and your talent but you will make each other better so stay close to her <3" like ma'am

Quinn Fabray. Was going to terribly insane lengths to get her baby back but eventually realized the best thing for her child was if she was not in her life

Rose Pillsbury. Also a ginger supremacist

Sue Sylvester. Seemed to forget she had a child at some point. I don't blame her

Doris Sylvester. Also horribly neglectful of her children. Also I think they revealed she wasn't even actually hunting Nazis??

Betty Adams. Also cool with sending her daughter to conversion therapy apparently so fuck off

Shelby Corcoran. Belongs in jail. Broke the law to manipulate Rachel into coming to see HER, then decided she wanted nothing to do with her. Scoops up Quinn's baby and dips, then comes back 2 years later to dangle Beth in front of Quinn's face and tease her with the possibility of seeing her daughter again

#glee #ranking #mine #my thoughts #asks #answered #anonymous #im probably missing some obvious ones lol #but thats all i could think of off the top of my head

[ihavelovednone]

Emily & Miguel: Power & control

This post is long - REALLY LONG. I’ve tried to reduce it and separate it - but it’s not really working. So here goes. It’s centered around Emily and Miguel and the power imbalance between them and the abusiveness that he displays. I hope it’s somewhat interesting and not to hard to follow - if you read it in full that is.

The initial power imbalance There are several aspects in Miguel’s and Emily’s relationship that creates a power imbalance between them. First, and probably the one that relates to every other imbalance in their relationship, is the fact that she’s a woman. That doesn’t really need any further explaining. Women are generally seen as the weaker sex and there’s a long since decided role for women that still has deep roots in our society and in Emily’s life it’s very prominent. Dita displays dislike about Emily involving herself in the search for her child for instance. Devante uses a tone that reeks of aw, little girl and Miguel is somewhere in between wanting to be the sole provider and wanting her help.

One more obvious thing is the clear age difference between Miguel and Emily. It’s kinda like a spinn on the stereotypical old husband, young wife trope - except that Miguel, even though he’s no spring chicken, is still relatively young and very attractive. Kurt Sutter and Elgin James are so subtle in the way they decide use a stereotype without stereotyping that if you don’t look closely, you miss it. 

I think they met when Emily was in her final years of college or in law school and Miguel was in the start of his business career - the legal business that is. I have this idea in my head that Miguel tried really hard to impress her and she just rolled her eyes at him. Emily’s smart and strong, opinionated and a fighter, we’ve seen that in season 1 when Emily’s delivered info to Miguel about LO, called Devante out on his misogynistic shit and when she didn’t let herself get intimidated by Potter. She also found the info about the murder of EZ’s mother and called out Miguel’s hypocrisy in season 2. 

At the same time there’s an insecurity within Emily. She’s probably been told several times by her parents that she’s not good enough. When Emily meets Miguel the break-up from EZ is probably still lingering, even if it was awhile ago they ended in a way that never really gave them closure - she didn’t just loose her first love, she lost someone that was a security to her. On top of that she’d lost her baby (yes I say lost because I don’t think she’d have aborted it had the circumstances been different). This probably made Emily more susceptible to Miguel’s charm.

That insecurity is very apparent in season 2 when Miguel starts spending more time with Adelita. He used to worship the ground she walked on, she was his “touchstone” and all of a sudden his work is all about taking Potter down with the help of Adelita and Emily ends up being in the background. There’s a desperation in her actions in that season. She enters territories she’d never actually enter otherwise. She’s so desperate for the Agra Park thing to work because she never chose the cartel, she chose Miguel. 

There’s also a duality with Emily in season 2 - The cartel is, up until the kidnapping of Cristobal, in the background of Emily’s life. She didn’t see, she didn’t hear.  I think she stayed with Miguel in the hopes that he’d liquidate the cartel and go one hundred percent legit but now, he’s rising - he’s making more money and Emily’s spurring him on. Maybe because she wants to be more involved with him, close to him, move Adelita out of the way. She wants to feel needed. It’s a weird dynamic between them, like the abused wife that wants to please her man or something.

Never in control Miguel might’ve initially been a person she found to be what EZ once was - a safe harbor, a home, a lifeline. Not necessarily financial, more emotional. Emily sees Miguels way of treating her with loving words and gifts as affection, maybe she knows that there’s something else under the beautiful exterior, maybe she doesn’t. As Erin said, they choose men that are darkness personified, hinting that they seek it out, it comes naturally - almost as a way to punish themselves for not being good enough. Miguel’s affectionate behavior bleeds into darkness, or maybe his affectionate behavior is actually something sinister altogether - like he feeds on women wanting him, needing him, he uses it to get to them.

In the midst of her vulnerability Miguel displays behaviors of wanting for her to belong to him and no one else, and that’s dangerous and toxic. She doesn’t realize that behavior as problematic until season 2 - even though it starts in season 1 when he propagates to EZ that he need to leave Emily alone - because it complicates things. 

Emily’s very isolated. She has no friends, she’s got no one that’s just hers. Except for EZ when he gets out of prison, and even so, they’re not really friends either. They’re more in limbo than anything. And even though they’ve got a past - she’s got the right to spend time with whoever she wants. Or should have the right. Loyalty to a man does not derive from how few men you’re in contact with as a woman. Emily doesn’t need to go back to her man, or only stay by his side. She’s not Miguel’s property. She’s allowed to have relationships with other men - as long as she’s not actually cheating - and even if she wanted to - she’s could, it doesn’t warrant abuse of any kind.

His want for her to be a housewife - or work close by, offering her a job in his company - is toxic. Why? Well, she’s constantly under his watch, she’s doesn’t have the opportunity to make new acquaintances and friendships without those people having relations to Miguel. If Miguel were to demand information about what a person has spoken to his wife about - they’d tell him - in fear of loosing their job, or their life. Now, had Miguel not displayed other types of weird and controlling behaviors it probably wouldn’t have crossed my mind that she worked for him. It would’ve been fine.

Him having her ride with a platoon and not be left alone is, yeah, you guessed it: TOXIC. Freedom is not something that she has. You might think that Emily, just because she lives in an ocean of money and opportunity that she’s somehow free. She’s not. She has no privacy. And yeah, you could argue that Miguel’s cartel work is dangerous and therefore she needs to be protected - but at what cost? She’s constantly under the watchful eye of Miguel’s lackeys - which becomes more apparent in season 2 when Nestor’s following her every move without her knowing. They work for him - they abide to him. She doesn’t have the ability to do what ever she wants - and when she does, he abuses her, as seen in S01E05. As I said in a post that’s been deleted now: Miguel is, most of the time, abusive without actually doing it himself. He uses his staff to control her.

We’ve never actually seen Miguel give Emily any presents, probably because it’d be very stereotypical of him and Sutter and James want to avoid stereotypes. But I think he’d do something like that, considering his expensive taste in suits, cars and other things - I think he likes showing of how rich he is. 

Miguel comes of as one of those people who’d use presents to stifle someone. The wife’s mad? Get her a meaningless expensive present to shut her up and simultaneously tell her you care for her without actually asking how she’s feeling. She thinks you don’t love her? Diamonds, get her some diamonds. Diamond equals love. Him throwing all kinds of materialistic shit at her is toxic and it doesn’t matter how much he loves her because his behavior ends up being manipulative and controlling every single time. 

The comment you should be grateful feels like something that’d come out of his mouth to (and probably from people on the outside looking in). Not that many women get to live a life in luxury, he’d probably say. Like she should be grateful for something she never really asked for. 

Conclusion This became a long post - probably longer than all my posts so far - combined. There are so many red flags with Miguel and Emily - some of them so subtle you hardly notice them. In the first episode I thought they’d go the whole sugar daddy route which might seem cool and fun in theory. But it’s in fact a very common way for young women to enter prostitution so I’m glad they didn’t go that way with it and display it like it’s no big deal - it’s all fun, look at all the pretty things I get for being a companion. 

Miguel’s abusive behavior is subtle at times and yeah, he loves her and she love him, but it doesn’t matter when the relationship is so unhealthy. Writing this piece has given me a new perspective of the two as well. Emily’s desperate to not loose Miguel - why? Most likely because she’d be on her own otherwise and she’s not really ready for that and Miguel’s behavior is probably something he’s picked up from his childhood and I’m not sure he’s always aware of it. Miguel very insecure. Let’s be honest, no man comfortable within himself would ever restrain a woman’s social circle, career or freedom to roam. 

#ihavelovednone writes #mayans mc #sarah bolger #emily galindo #emily thomas #danny pino #miguel galindo #jd pardo #ezekiel reyes #ez reyes

[aerinmelina]

Birthday Pt 1

Since Kendra won the vote... here’s Kendra’s birthday. :) Probably not quite what anyone was expecting, but I’m enjoying writing Kendra and Seth as [little] kids. I hope you enjoy!

“Hey. Hey Kenny. Keeeeennnyyyyyy. Kendra. Kendra Kendra Kendra. Wake. Up.”

She swatted at something in front of her face and mumbled incoherently.

“Kendra!” A sudden weight hit her stomach. Her eyes opened and she jolted awake, then realized her brother had jumped on top of her and was laying across her midsection.

“Ow, Seth!” she shouted, complaining loudly. “What is your problem!?”

“Happy Birthday!” he exclaimed, smiling at her. “Dad made waffles!”

She moved aside the blackout curtains from her window and gazed outside to find a nice autumn day waiting for her. Maybe she’d be able to get some more soccer practice in today.

Wait. The smell of waffles and bacon finally reached her nostrils.

Her stomach grumbled.

Waffles.

She pushed Seth off of her and jumped out of bed as all traces of sleepiness fled from her presence. Kendra ran out of her room and down the stairs with Seth hot on her heels. Would there be strawberries? Syrup? Whipped cream? Or were they chocolate chip waffles? Banana? Blueberry?

“Good morning, sunshine,” Dad greeted when she appeared in the kitchen.

“Hi, Dad,” she replied, carefully eying the nearby stack of waffles. He’d made scrambled eggs, too!

“Happy Birthday, Kendra!” Mom called, peering around Dad’s shoulders so she could see her daughter.

“Thanks, Mom!”

“Is breakfast almost done?” Seth asked with eagerness.

“Yep, just finishing the last waffle now,” Dad answered. “Your mother is cutting up strawberries.”

Yes! Mom’s got strawberries!

“This is the best breakfast ever!” Kendra squealed.

“Well, it’s not every day that our daughter turns six,” Marla smiled while she and Scott shared amused expressions.

“It’s my birthday!” she cried. “Can Alyssa come over!?”

Dad laughed. “Yes, Alyssa can come over,” he said. “Actually, a bunch of your friends are coming over later. Remember? For your birthday party?”

“Yes!” Kendra shouted, throwing a few fist pumps into the air. “It’s my birthday!”

“It’s Kenny’s birthday!” Seth was also happy to share in the excitement and jumped up and down a few times.

Marla started transporting plates of food over to their dinner table while her children danced with happiness. “Hey, Seth, can you grab the whipped cream from the fridge and put it on the table?” she asked.

“Whipped cream!?”

Could this day get any better!?

Seth ran over to the refrigerator and pulled out the container of whipped cream, then placed it on top of the table and sat down. Kendra pulled out a chair and joined him, and both kids stared at the food in front of them in anticipation. Marla took a seat and Scott joined them shortly thereafter. They had a quick blessing over their breakfast, and then everyone dug in.

They weren’t chocolate chip or banana or blueberry waffles, but there were strawberries to put on top, and syrup, and whipped cream, too! And bacon and eggs on the side!

“Thank you for making breakfast!” Kendra called as she started eating.

“Yeah! Thanks!” Seth agreed.

“You’re welcome,” Scott and Marla responded in tandem.

Breakfast was a relatively quiet affair at first, but conversation seeped in after a few minutes.

“So, Kendra,” Marla began, “Your party is at noon today. After breakfast we need to vacuum and do dishes, and then we can hang up decorations. Does that sound good to you?”

“Yes!” Kendra looked up from her breakfast. Marla bit her lip to keep from laughing – her daughter had a whipped cream mustache.

Scott, however, could not keep from laughing. “Maybe a bath after breakfast first,” he said, then gave himself a whipped cream mustache to match his daughter’s. Seth followed suit, although he had food all over his shirt as well.

“I think you might be right about a bath,” Marla agreed.

“Mommy, you don’t have a mustache!” Seth chirped.

“Family mustache!” Kendra giggled.

Marla rolled her eyes and sighed in fake exasperation. “Family mustache? Who ever heard of such a thing?”

Kendra and Seth raised their hands and continued to giggle. “Come on, Mommy! Do it!”

“Yeah, Mom! Do the mustache!”

Marla gave Scott a pointed look, then ran her fork through the whipped cream on her plate and added a mustache to her own face. Kendra and Seth burst into laughter in reaction. Scott and Marla joined in after a few seconds; their children’s laughter was contagious.

Breakfast continued to prove to be a messy, albeit happy, affair. Both kids took quick baths afterward and, once they were dressed for the day, Scott took Seth to the supermarket to pick up a birthday cake and grab some other things while Kendra stayed at home with Marla in order to set up for her party that afternoon.

“Wow, Mommy! This looks cool!” Kendra cried in awe when they’d finished putting everything up. It was a soccer-themed birthday party. Streamers hung from the ceiling in swooping arcs, a soccer ball cloth had been placed on top of the table, posters were on the walls, and Marla had planned a few party games or activities so there were supplies for those out as well. “I love this!”

“I’m glad you do,” Marla said. She looked at the clock on the wall. “Your friends will start getting here probably in about half an hour or so. I wonder where your father is?”

The sound of the opening garage door rumbled throughout the living room. Kendra beamed. “They’re here! They’re here!” she shouted, rushing over to the door which led into the garage. She opened it in time for Seth to run into the house and announce, “We have the cake!”

“What’s it look like? Seth, what’s it look like?”

“It looks awesome! Like a big soccer ball! And Daddy got soccer candles for it!”

“Soccer candles, too!?”

Best. Day. Ever.

Scott called for help and Marla joined him. They both entered the house shortly thereafter, Marla carrying the cake (which was concealed within a pink bakery box) and Scott followed behind carrying a couple of grocery bags.

“Mint chocolate chip and cookie dough flavors,” he said to Marla as they made their way into the kitchen. “I couldn’t find that strawberry one she loves so much.”

“I’m sure it’ll be fine,” Marla said. “It’s still ice cream-”

“There’s ice cream, too!?” Kendra thought she might explode from excitement.

Marla laughed. “Told you so.” She playfully stuck her tongue out at Scott.

“Why do I foresee ten or so sugar high kids in our living room within the next hour or so?” Scott asked.

“Because it’s inevitable,” she replied. “That’s why we have outdoor games to play outside after cake and ice cream.”

“You’re a genius.”

“Thanks. You can also thank Mother Nature for the lovely day today. I thought it was going to rain, so we’ve caught a break.”

--

Three and a half hours later found Kendra and Seth passed out on the couch and the house otherwise devoid of visitors, minus Grandma and Grandpa Larsen, who had made it just in time for the party. Marla shook her head fondly at her sugar coma-ed kids and smiled as she felt Scott wrap his arms around her waist.  He placed his chin on top of her head and they both watched their kids sleep for a few minutes.

“We should help your parents clean up,” Scott said in a tone which clearly conveyed that he did not want to follow his own suggestion. Hank and Gloria were currently in the back yard.

“Yeah, we probably should,” Marla agreed.

Neither of them moved.

Marla sighed.

“Look at them. They’re so cute when they’re not fighting.”

“They’re cute all the time,” Marla chided. “They’re just particularly cute when they’re not fighting.”

Scott chuckled. “Fair enough.”

“Kendra was so excited today.”

“Seth was maybe even more excited than Kendra was, and it wasn’t even his birthday.”

They both laughed a little at that.

“Do you think we should move them to their beds?”

Marla shook her head. “Nah. Just let them crash on the couch for a while. Let’s just hope the sugar doesn’t turn them into cranky munchkins once they get up.”

Their light laughter turned into mutual cringing.

“Hey, I’ve got an idea,” Scott began, releasing his hold on his wife and turning so that he could make eye contact with her. “Your parents are in town.”

“Yeah? So?”

A mischievous grin crept over his face. “So… what about an impromptu date night? You and me? Leave the sugar high, potentially cranky kids with their grandparents…?”

Marla laughed and lightly slapped her husband’s arm. “Oh, you’re evil,” she said. “I love it.”

“The best part is, Gloria and Hank probably won’t mind even a little bit. And I’m sure Seth and Kendra would love to spend some more time with their grandparents.” Scott’s grin widened.

“I’m in. Help me clean up and then I’ll ask them if we can sneak out for the evening.”

“You got it, babe.” They broke apart and each rushed to pick up discarded paper plates, take down the streamers and other decorations, and put away games and unused party supplies. They’d vacuum after the kids woke up from their sugar-induced nap.

This day had turned out to be a win for all of them.

Best. Day. Ever.

#fablehaven #kendra sorenson #seth sorenson #sorenson family fluff #birthday fic #aerinm writes

[honeywithblueberries]

Halloween

This story is dedicated to Cimar of Turalis WildeHopps. Happy Halloween!! ………… “Why are we here?”

The red todd driving the car exchanged a smile with his wife at the whiny question. His oldest son was certainly on the cusp of being a teenager. Something that happened way too quick, in his opinion.

“We’re here,” he explained looking into the rearview mirror at the twelve year old slumped in the back seat, “because I volunteered to help out the Bunnyburrow Sherif’s Department with their Halloween Carnival.”

“But why did we have to come with you?” came the grumbled reply. “This could be that last Halloween I have to go trick or treating and instead of hitting all the good houses, I’m stuck in the boonies!”

“Gregory.”

The vixen in the passenger seat shot a warning look to her son. Though her calm voice never rose, there was enough of a threat in it to have her daughter, Skye, and youngest son, Nick, focus in on her.

“You’re here because we spend every holiday together.” Vivian looked from Greg, who humphed and stared out the window, to Skye, who pulled off her head phones to hear her better. “And because you can get candy anytime. But THESE times will be over before you know it. So watch your attitude, young todd.”

“I’m happy to be here,” chimed in the little kit sitting between his big brother and sister. “Look at all the leaves, Daddy! They’re all yellowy and red!”

Nick had been disappointed at first when he realized he wouldn’t be going trick or treating, having changed into his Zorro costume as soon as he got home from school. But once they loaded up the car and started driving, he had spent the better part of the car ride bouncing in place. His little face moved from one window to the other, trying to get the best view of the big, colorful world rushing by just outside the car. And Matthew had a blast pointing out the streams and meadows yards away from the highway.

“I see ‘em, buddy!” Matthew grinned to himself, a pleased growl rumbling lowly when Vivian reached over to give his knee a squeeze. They smiled to each other again before they both noticed their exit.

“Bunnyburrow!” cried Nick. “Bunnyburrow, Dad! Right there!”

He pushed himself up as much as the seatbelt would allow, his efforts jostling his big sister. Skye grunted in discomfort and nudged him back into his seat.

“We see it baby!” laughed his mother. “Careful or Skye’s going to bite you.”

Big green eyes looked over to his sister, who grinned down at him, showing off every sharp fang. She gave him a playful snap of her jaws, laughing and ruffling the fur on his head when gasped in fear. Pulling him to her side, the vixen looked over at her parents.

“So why did you have to drag me along?” she asked as her father slowed the car.

“You’re here because next year, you’ll be in college,” he answered, pulling into the lot designated for carnival staff. “Which means I’m running out of time to embarrass you whenever I want.” A beaver directed them to a spot after nodding at the pass he displayed on the windshield. “Gotta start making them count now.”

He grinned as his daughter reached over to flick his ear.

“Alright troops!” Vivian unbuckled and turned to look over her seat at the three of them. “Here’s the deal. Skye you’re in charge of your brothers. Greg, do NOT wander off without letting your sister know where your going. And Nick, baby, you stay with your sister NO MATTER WHAT.  If I have to collar and leash you, I will.”

Matthew pulled out his wallet and took out three bills. “If you spend this all in one place, you don’t get anymore.”

“Wow,” came Greg’s bland reply. “Five bucks. Time to go crazy.”

“It could be zero bucks,” countered his father sweetly with a smile. His eyes moved to Nick, who was beaming at his money and bouncing again. “And make sure he doesn’t spend it all on sugar. We’re going to be eating actual food and I don’t want him to ruin his appetite.”

“Why does Skye get a twenty?”

“No fair!”

“Shut up, you little insects!” she growled at her brothers. “I get more because I’m older.”

“And she, unlike you, re-painted the kitchen and watched your brother.” Their mother climbed out of the car and stretched, not noticing their father creeping up next to her. She gave a yelp of shock, before laughing when he pulled her into his arms.

“I don’t know about you, but I’m certainly ready for a treat, Mrs. Wilde,” he growled into her ear.

“Mmmm, tempting….” she muttered back before turning in his arms and wrapping her own around his neck, “but not in front of the kits, Officer Wilde.”

“Please, not in front of us….” groaned Skye, her face twisted in disgust.

“Seriously,” agreed Greg.

“There’s kits here, for fucks sake,” chimed in Nick.

Both Vivian and Matthew looked over at their youngest in shock as his siblings snorted into their paws.

“Where did you learn that word!” demanded Matthew, his eyes narrowed on his son.

“From you.” Nick said. Vivian pulled away from her husband and crossed her arms as she glared at him. The todd blinked at his kit before looking to his wife with guilt.

“Anything else you want to teach our eight year old, Matt?”

“He also says shit a lot,” Nick said cheerfully.

Greg and Skye laughed as Vivian scowled.

“Wow!” Matthew exclaimed looking down at his watch. “Look at the time! I really need to check in! Meet up at the information booth and we’ll talk dinner? Love ya, see ya! BYE!”

Vivian shook her head at her husband’s retreating form before turning to her kits.

“Alright! I have to go check in, too. I’m working the Bobbing For Apples booth first, than the Darts game. So if you need me, come find me. And you-“ she kneeled down and took Nick’s paws. “Zorro doesn’t use bad words, so Nicholas Wilde shouldn’t either. Capiche?”

“Yes, Mama,” the kit confirmed hanging his head in shame, with his ears flattened.

“Ok,” she gave him a kiss and ruffled his fur before pulling the hat hanging down his back over his ears. Straightening up, she kissed Skye and Greg. “You guys have fun, be safe, and we’ll meet up at seven.”

With grunts of agreement, Greg and Skye turned to leave, the latter reaching down to clasp Nick’s paw. His mother’s words faded as they walked towards the brightly lit entrance of the Bunnyburrow Halloween Carnival.

And Nick couldn’t remember the last time he was this excited. ………..

Judy couldn’t remember the last time she was this excited.

Halloween was her all time, absolute, no questions asked favorite holiday EVER! It was the one time of year she could wear her police costume and not have everyone give her funny looks for it. And it was the only time she was encouraged to dream big and go for more than what was expected.

Not that she followed everyone else’s advice.

She had been a cop for the past four Halloweens and saw no reason to be anything else this year. Though that was before her favorite big brother announced he was going to be home from college for the holiday. With a surprise that was just for her!

“What is it?” she asked curiously as she opened the box and pulled out the bolero hat.

“This,” explained her brother Jack, “is a capitán’s outfit!”

“What’s that mean?” she asked blinking up at him.

“It means captain. This is what the leader of the army wore a long time ago!” He smiled as her eyes went wide. “And this capitán was the greatest of all!”

Her mouth fell open at, that making the older buck smile wider and nod knowingly. He lowered himself to balls of his feet and beaconed her closer, looking around to make sure no-one was eaves-dropping on them.

“They say she even tamed the Mighty Zorro!” He grinned at her confused look. “Fox.” His little sister gasped in shock. “With his help, she cleaned up Zootopia and made it a better place for all mammals. And, since you two have the same goal, I thought you would like to give the cop costume a break this year.”

Jack pulled the hat from her paws and fit it over her ears. Looking up to the brim of it, her eyes got the sweet, dreamy look he loved so much. Focusing back onto him, she leaped into his arms for a tight hug.

“Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

“You’re welcome, Bun-bun.” Kissing her nose, he turned her and put the rest of the costume in her paws. “Now go change. We’re leaving in twenty minutes for the carnival.”

With another yell of delight, she bounced out of the living room towards the tunnels leading to kits’ rooms.

“Why do you encourage it, Jack?” He turned to the disapproving voice of his sister. “Just let her be a cop again so she gets it out of her system and realizes her place is here. On the farm, with her family.”

“Wow, Maple, nice costume.” Jack gave a smile and nod as he looked her over. Knowing the exchange wasn’t going to end in her favor, she crossed her arms and frowned at him.

“I’m not in a costume.”

“Don’t be too sure about that. You definitely look like a frigid bitch to me.”

With a smirk, he strolled away to where his other brothers and sisters were getting ready. The older ones were going to be at Bunnyburrow High for the Halloween dance, while the rest were going to be divided between trick or treating and going to the festival. Jack had elected to take Judy and her litter, with Judy’s friend Gideon tagging along.

“What are you going as, Jack?” Called out his litter mate, Ben.

“Oh, I’m going as a broke college student who just spent his food money on a really cool costume for his little sister.” The buck struck a pose. “Clever, huh?”

His brother laughed before popping his fake teeth in. “Good for you,” he said in a poor Pawsylvanian accent, “I only suck da blood from pretty, pretty does! LIKE YOU!”

Ben scooped up one of their little sisters, who squealed with delight as her big brother tickled and covered her with kisses. Jack laughed and shook his head before looking towards the hallway.

“I’m ready!” shouted Judy as she came barreling out, dressed the capitán’s uniform. Maple shook her head as she ran by and grasped her brother’s paw. “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!”

The group joined her excitement as they started walking to the door. “Guys, I don’t think Judy’s ready!”

“I am too!” she protested, looking up at Jack. “Where’s your costume?”

“This is my costume,” he said, herding his group outside. “I’m Joe.”

“Joe who?” she asked in confusion.

“Joe Mama!” The poor joke earned embarrassed laughs from his older siblings though some of the younger ones, including Judy, giggled.

“Jack, you’re silly.”

“I thought I was Joe?” The response earned him a nudge from her elbow.

“Hey, Jack?” she asked, a paw going to the plastic sword on her hip.

“Sí, Capitán Hopps?”

“Do you think I’ll see Zorro tonight?” She looked up at her brother who shrugged and took the paw of Judy’s litter sister, Silene.

“You never know,” he said with a wink. “Where there’s trouble, Zorro is bound to be close by.”

Look out, Zorro! she thought with a grin. …………..

“Skyyyyeeee……”

Her ears twitched but she didn’t acknowledge her brother’s whine.

“Skye, I wanna go play with my sword!” He gave his trapped paw a tug, groaning when she didn’t let him go. “Skye, come on! I wanna play!”

He gave her a sad look before turning to the group of kits laughing and running around together. Mostly bunnies, with a few lambs, pigs, and goats, they all looked like they were having a great time. And Nick wanted to join them. But Skye refused to let go of his paw, insisting on dragging him everywhere.

“Skye!” he protested, his other paw reaching up to pry at her fingers.

Giving up, he huffed and frowned. Quite suddenly, an idea formed in his head. One that was very, VERY naughty, but would guarantee his freedom. Sneaking another look at his sister, who was admiring some homemade jewelry, he grinned before drawing in a breath.

“KIT-NAPPER!”

His shout startled everyone into stoping and caused Skye to jump in surprise  before looking down at him. And, as he had hoped, she loosened the grip on his paw, allowing him to take off in a flash.

“NICK!” he heard her shout in panic as he vanished into the crowd.

But, laughing at his new found freedom, the little fox ran and didn’t look back. ……..

The carnival wasn’t nearly as fun as Judy thought it would be.

Gideon had shown up, but he was dressed as SuperMammal instead of Zorro. Then he goes and spends all his time with her brother Quentin. And Silene and Brook were a heartbeat away from being pushed into the mud if they didn’t shut up about their stupid crowns. Her other litter mate, Sarah, was demanding all of Jack’s attention, not letting their brother set her down for second.

Leaving the little doe on her own, bored senseless.

Taking advantage of being stopped in front of a game booth, her big purple eyes looked around without interest…… until they caught sight of a little figure, clad in black with a long, fluffy red tail and bolero hat.

She gasped as she watched the masked fox kit duck behind a stall, panting as though he had been running. He peeked out as though to make sure he wasn’t being followed, before a smile curled his muzzle and he was off again at a slower pace.

“Zorro……” Judy whispered. Looking over at her distracted brother and siblings, she carefully snuck away. …….

I think I lost her, Nick thought with a grin, happy to be enjoying the carnival on his own terms.

Shouts of laughter drew his attention, making him run to find the source. Ducking through legs and stalls, he skidded to a halt in front of the group of kits playing, more than ready to join.

“Hi!” he greeted, a big smile curving his face and his paw reached up to pull his hat from his head.

Everyone stopped and looked at him, the eyes of some going wide with fear. Many stepped back. A few even ducked behind their friends to hide, only daring to peek out at the newcomer. The sudden pause in activity had the young todd’s smile faltering. Gulping, he tried again.

“Can I play?” he asked, stepping forward.

A brown colored buck frowned and shook his head. “No!” he said forcefully, stepping away from the group towards Nick. “No foxes allowed! Go away!”

“Yeah!” “YEAH!” “That’s right!” “Go away!” “No foxes!”

Shocked by their response, Nick opened his mouth to speak, only to have the brown buck step forward threateningly. And that was enough to have Nick darting back the way he came. Rounding the corner of a booth, he pressed his back to the canvas and fought the sting of tears. From the clearing, he could hear the other children praise the buck for driving him away.

“Thanks George!” “Good job!” “George, you’re so brave!”

He peeked around the corner and sadly watched as they started their game back up. Sniffling, he dragged the back of his paw over his eyes, his mask catching most of his tears. And deciding it would be best to find Skye and Greg, he pushed off to be on his way.

Only to find himself nose to nose with a sword. His paws flew up in surrender as his eyes went to the little grey bunny holding it, a smug look on her little face.

“Ha!” she exclaimed with her free paw on her hip. “You thought you could outsmart me? The great Capitán Hopps?”

Nick kept his paws up and just stared at her in shock. He wasn’t sure what surprised him more, the sword or the expectant look on her face.

“I’ve got you now, Zorro!” her grin and eyes grew wider as she waited for him to respond. Both deflated some when she leaned over to him and whispered, “This is the part where you pull out your sword.”

His eyes narrowed in confusion for a moment, not understanding until she looked at the toy sword on his hip then back up to him. One paw fumbled to draw it out, eyes not looking away from the costumed bunny. She gave him a happy grin when he succeeded, crossing the plastic blade with hers.

“You’ve not won yet, Capitán!” he said finally. “Where there is injustice, there will always be… Zorro!”

She gave a laugh and playful yell as they began to sword fight.

“It’s you who’s bad guy!” the little bunny argued as they fought, her smile only growing wider.

“Not uh!” countered Nick. “Zorro’s the good guy! Everybody knows that!”

Her head tilted in confusion as they continued their fight, moving further away from his hiding spot.

“So who is the bad guy?” she asked, pausing.

The question had him stopping to think it over. “I don’t know. I thought it was you.”

With a shake of her head, she put a paw to her chin and furrowed her brow to think. And while she did, Nick decided to edge a bit closer, curious about the little bunny in front of him. Watching her ponder their foes, the todd felt himself smile. An odd feeling, as just a moment ago, he was in tears. But she seemed nice and had wanted to play.

And she knew what his costume was!

So when she lifted her eyes back up to his, and his heart slammed into his chest, he decided he liked her.

“The bad guys are everyone who’s mean,” she decided. “So it’s up to us to get rid of bullies and look out for the little guys.”

“Us?” Nick asked, his voice hopeful and ears perked. Her smile had his tail wagging in delight as she gave a firm nod.

“Yup. We’re a team now.” She reached out her paw and grasped his, tugging him further into the carnival. And Nick was more than willing to go with her.

“I’m Nick, by the way.”

Still holding his paw, she grinned up at him. “I’m Judy. But for now, you can call me Capitán Hopps and you’re Zorro.”

Sighing to himself, his heart fluttering, the little fox allowed the little bunny to drag him around. And he had no problem with that. ………..

“Nick!”

Skye was looking around frantically, checking under booths and tables, in trash cans and recycle bins, searching every last nook and cranny she stumbled. And there was still no sign of her baby brother.

“Nick!” Near tears, she turned in a circle as though hoping she would see him running towards her. But all she saw was Greg rushing up in the same panicked state she was in.

“Nothing!” he said, answering her silent question. “And no-one remembers seeing a little Zorro running around.”

“Greg! It’s almost six thirty and it’s dark out! Something could have happened to him! He could be in a ditch somewhere, hurt and bleeding. Or someone could have him!”

“Ok, calm down, drama queen!” Greg patted her arm soothingly. “It’s the sticks. No-one is going to hurt him out here. It isn’t like Zootopia, where no-one cares. These bumpkins actually look out for kits.”

“Fox kits though?” challenged Skye, as tears of worry fell. “Some how I doubt they’ll be concerned if they see a fox get kit-napped. Let’s head towards the info booth. If we don’t find him…. we’ll let Dad know.”

Greg winced at that. If they told Vivian and Matthew they lost their little brother, they would kill them both. Skye more gruesomely than himself, but still.

“Nick!” “Nick?”

“Judy?!” A panicked voice echoed back to them, causing both foxes to exchange glances. “Judy, Bun-Bun, where are you, sweetheart! JUDY!”

Skye turned to see a rabbit buck in the same position she was in not too long ago: On his paws and knees, checking under booths and tables. She watched as he back out and straightened up.

“Judy?” He pushed himself up and ran to a booth. “Hey, Mr. Oats, have you seen Judy? I can’t find her anywhere and I’m really freaking out here!”

The elderly goat brought a trembling hoof to his chin. “Now, then,” he began in an old, slow, raspy country drawl that had the buck’s foot thumping impatiently, “let’s see….. Which one is Trudy? Is she the little black and white one? Or is that Brandy? Oh, brandy! Did I ever tell you about the time I won first place in the Trio-Burrow County Fair for my homemade brandy-“

“Yes, yes, you did Mr. Oats, and after I find my sister, I’ll be back to hear it again!” And with that, the rabbit pushed off, leaving the old goat to mutter to himself, not realizing the rabbit had left. “Judy! Judy!”

“Excuse me!” Greg looked over at his sister in surprise, only to find her half way to the buck.

Brow furrowed in worry, he turned big blue eyes to her, his expression just like her own.

“We’re looking for our little brother, too.” she explained. “Maybe we can help each other? You seem to know this place better than we do.”

“Yeah, sure!” he nodded and shook her paw as they began to walk fast paced together. “I’m Jack. What does he look like?”

“I’m Skye and that’s Greg. His name is Nick and he’s a red fox with green eyes and dark tipped ears. He has cream fur under his muzzle and he’s dressed like Zorro.”

Both foxes kept walking, not realizing they had lost Jack. When she didn’t receive a response, they stopped to look over at him.

“What?” asked Greg.

“Your brother’s dressed like Zorro?” he asked, looking at Skye.

She nodded and frowned. “Is there a problem with that?” Her arms crossed, not liking what she thought he was insinuating. Only to be confused when he shook his head and smiled.

“Judy’s dressed up like the capitán.” Jack’s smile grew, fear and tension leaving his body as he nodded at the pair. “I know where they are.”

Greg and Skye could barely keep up with him. ……..

Nick stood just off to the side of a booth. He glanced over at Judy, who mirrored his pose. His eyes scanned the area carefully, watching everyone laugh and enjoy the sights and attractions of the carnival. But he was waiting for someone in particular. A certain brown furred someone.

When she had pulled him away, Judy could help but ask a question.

“Why were you crying?”

Embarrassment flooded him at the thought of her noticing, causing him to duck his head.

“I wasn’t crying,” he mumbled. But the bunny wasn’t convinced.

“It’s okay, Nick.”she whispered, giving his paw a squeeze. “I’m not going to think less of you.”

He looked up at her, surprised she had used his name after insisting on calling him Zorro. “The other kits back there…..” Shaking his head, he sighed and kept walking. “They weren’t very nice.”

The fox was suddenly jerked to a stop, looking over at her in surprise. “Who was mean to you?” she asked with scowl.

His eyes went wide at her expression. “I think everyone said his name was George…..”

“Brown furred?” Nick nodded. “Rabbit?” Another nod. “Wanna get back at him?” One more excited nod as Judy grinned.

And the plan was simple. Judy had some allowance saved up and Nick still had his five dollars. The Hayworth family grew blackberries and sold pies made from them, two for seven bucks. Having spent most of her life being taunted by the buck in question, Judy knew where he and his posse would be. Since it was dark, and Nick’s eyes were better than hers, he would look for him, while she kept an ear out.

Spotting and hearing their target, the pair stood waiting.

“Why did you have to wear such a dumb costume?” Came the domineering voice of George. Both kits peeked out of their hiding spots to see him strutting ahead of the group, sneering at dark wooled lamb dressed as an angel.

“I thought I looked sweet…..”the lamb said in a sad voice. “My mama and daddy said I looked good.”

“Well your mama and daddy ain’t that bright,” he said rudely.

Nick and Judy exchanged outraged looks and nodded.

“NOW!”

As one, the left their spots and slammed their pies into the buck’s face, knocking him back onto his tail. Nick grinned down at him, watching the pie tins fall away. Crust and filling dropped onto his lap, the solider costume he wore destroyed by the dessert. Judy stood over him, paws on her hips and a triumphant grin on her face. The others just watched in shock at what happened.

“And that’s what happens to mean mammals who are meanies to others!” she declared. “What do you have to say for yourself now, George?”

Two brown paws reached up to drag pie from his eyes. And the anger burning in them was unmistakable. “Get them!” He screamed and pointed.

Nick and Judy paused and looked at the other kits, who scowled at the pair. They exchanged worried glances before turning tail and running, George’s group hot on their tails. ………..

“Judy was hoping to run into Zorro!” Jack explained as he lead them to the clearing. “If he had a sword, she would have asked him to play with her! Which means she and Nick should be over-“

Both kits in question darted by the trio looking for them.

“There,” completed Greg looking after them in amazement.

A series of shouts had them looking to the group of costumed children angrily chasing after them.

“You know,” said Skye, relieved to know her brother was okay, “we’re all going to look back at this day and laugh.”

“Someday soon?” asked Jack. Skye shook her head.

“Nope…..” ……….

It shouldn’t have been fun. They had an army of angry kits after them, one of which was covered in pie.

But that didn’t stop either of them from laughing as they evaded their pursuers. Grinning at his new friend, she grinned back before grabbing his paw and dragging them between two stalls. They ducked under the canvas wall, before becoming still. Judy pressed a finger to her lips, Nick nodding in agreement, as her ears perked up slightly, listening to the group pause.

“Where did they go?” demanded George.

“They vanished!” Declared another.

“Well, find them! I’m going to show that little freak and her stupid fox friend to think twice before messing with me!”

The pair hiding bit their lips to keep from laughing as the group moved further away. Once they had gone, they cautiously crept out from the stall and laughed.

“That was awesome!” Nick said once he controlled himself.

“Yeah!” agreed Judy. She looked over at him and blushed. “We- we make a great team.”

She was still smiling as he met her eyes, feeling his belly flip when she blushed again and looked to her feet.

“That’s because we’re partners,” he explained. Holding out his paw, the todd waited patiently for her to accept it. He most certainly was not expecting her bounce forward and kiss his cheek.

Mouth falling open, he stared at her in shock. Judy’s paws went to stroke her ears shyly, still smiling at the ground.

“Thanks, Zorro.” she whispered.

“Anytime, Capitán.” A smile spread over his face as they stood staring at each other, oblivious to the carnival around them.

“There they are!”

The voice broke them from their spell, causing them to look around in shock.

They were very much surrounded!

George, still covered in pie with, stepped forward and pushed his sleeves up.

“Why are you such a freak, Hopps?”

“Hey!” Nick cried, moving to stand in front of her protectively. “Don’t call her that!”

“Shut up, ya dumb fox!”

“And don’t call him that!” Judy moved around her friend and glared at their nemesis. “Why are you always such a big jerk, George? He just wanted to play! Why do have to be so rotten? Why, you’re nothing but a big, brown, stupid, dumb bunny!”

“Oh, you asked for it, Hopps!” A brown fist peeled back…… only to be stop by a large brown paw. The little buck looked up in confusion as his friends scattered and ran away.

“Is there a problem here?” Asked Matthew, his green eyes moving from the pie encrusted bunny to the his son, who was trying to shield Judy.

“N-no, sir….” George muttered, looking terrified.

The uniformed todd rolled his eyes and reached into his pocket. A packet of wet-wipes were pulled out and passed to him. “Here. Clean up, then find your folks. I’m sure they’re worried sick about you.”

“Th-thank you, sir!” And without another word, he took off, wet-wipes clutched in his paw.

Shaking his head after him, Matthew turned back to Nick and Judy.

“And you, young todd, seem to be missing something.” The fox fit gulped as he looked up at his father only to have his ears perk at the sound of a familiar voice.

“Oh, Nick!” Skye and Greg came dashing into view, followed closely by a tall buck with stripes on his face.

“Judith Lavern Hopps!” the rabbit buck scolded, before scooping her into his arms. “Don’t you ever run away from me like that again, you hear me?”

“Sorry, Jackie,” she muttered.

“And I see you three had an interesting night.” The buck and doe looked over to the fox officer. He stood glaring at the vixen with Nick in his arms. Turning to her, Matthew shook his head again. “Didn’t your mother tell you to stay with Skye, NO MATTER WHAT?”

“Yes, daddy,” the kit muttered, looking down.

“Look at me, young todd.” Obeying, Nick raised his head. “I’m very disappointed in you. Both of you.” He looked over at his daughter, who hung her head in shame. “Now, I’m already in trouble with your mother, so I’m willing to put this whole mess behind us. For now. Nick, you’re going to make sure the bathroom is sparkling everyday for the next week. And, Skye, you got the kitchen.”

Sighing, he set his kit down, keeping a grip on his paw. “Now let’s go eat.”

Greg grinned and headed for the info booth, where Vivian would be waiting, his father moving to follow. But Nick and Skye stayed where they were. Skye looked over at Jack, who smiled at her as he set his little sister down.

“Thanks for helping us Jack,” she said with a smile back.

“Thanks for helping me.” he said. “It was nice meeting you. Maybe, next time we can actually talk. Not just run around, looking for kits.”

“I’d like that.” came her enthusiastic reply.

Matthew looked from his daughter to the buck eyeing her, protective indignation rising up. “Let’s go, sweetheart. Mom’s waiting.”

She looked over to him and blushed. Jack was given another wave before she followed after Greg. Starting to walk again, he was brought to a halt by Nick. The little kit tugged his paw free from his father and walked over to Judy. She watched as he pushed his hat from his head and untied his mask. He smiled at her before holding it out, her eyes wide as she took it in her paws. But he didn’t release it, much to her confusion.

Without warning, he pulled it forward, bring her with it and pressed a sweet, chaste kiss on her lips.

Pulling back, he smiled and let it go, running back to his father and grabbing his paw. Dragging his dad, the foxes vanished into the crowd, leaving two very stunned bunnies

“Yup,” said Jack, breaking the silence. “That sounds about right. Tell you what.” Judy looked up at him, still holding the mask, her cheeks and ears bright red. “Let’s never tell Mom and Dad about tonight. Agreed?”

Smiling, she nodded. “Agreed.”

Shaking his own head, Jack reached down to take her paw, guiding her back to their own family’s meeting spot. …….

The car ride back to Zootopia was quiet. Skye and Greg hadn’t witnessed the kiss and Vivian was none the wiser about the events of the carnival. Something the rest of her family hoped would not change. Greg had surrendered the window seat to Nick, he and Skye falling asleep leaning on each other.

With Vivian asleep in the passenger seat, that left just him and Matthew to enjoy the ride in darkened silence.

“That was bold, Nicky.”

He looked from the window to his father.

“Females like bold.” The older todd smiled over at Vivian. “It’s what helped make your mother fall in love with me.”

“Do you think I’ll see her again, Dad?” he asked quietly.

Matthew smiled at that and nodded. “Yes, I do, son. Yes, I do.” …………..

TEN YEARS LATER

“A co-ed dorm, Nicky?” Vivian rolled her eyes as a pair of females looked over at her son and giggled. “Really?”

“It was my only option, Mom,” Nick explained with a box in his arms. Pushing the door to his room open he grinned at his father counting the boxes already brought up. “And this is the best dorm on campus. It’s not going to be all partying. My last dorm was awful, anyway!”

The older todd nodded. “It really was, Vivi. Besides, we’re just here to help him switch. Not judge, remember.”

“I know, I know!” She walked over to her son and wrapped her arms around him. “ And I know you’re going to party tonight.”

“It is Halloween.” confirmed Nick with a grin, earning a poke from his mother.

“Just be safe, be smart, and-” She looked over to her husband, whose face lit up and paw vanished into his pocket. He tossed the contents to his wife, who caught and passed it to Nick. “Use protection.”

“Mom!” his ears burning as they flattened against his head.

“A word I love hearing and I’m not ready to hear Grandma yet.” She patted his cheek and moved to the door.

Matthew followed and gave him a hug. “Have fun. We’ll see you this Sunday for dinner.”

“Bye, baby.”

“Bye, guys.” Once he was alone, he looked at the condoms in his paws. “Like I’m going to need these.”

They were tossed on the bed before he turned to pull out his costume for the night.

“Is it weird I’m going as Maui?” Smiling as he laid it out, a light knock at the door distracted him.

Though not as much as the costumed bunny on the other end. Taking in her cream colored skirt and orange top, with a blue shell necklace around her neck, there was something achingly familiar about her. She glanced up at him with big purple eyes and grinned. Pulling a flyer from the stack in her paws, she held it out.

“Hi! I’m Judy Hopps, you’re new neighbor!”

And just like that, Nick was eight years old again, running away from a bully covered in blackberry pie. With the bunny in front of him.

“I’m Nick, by the way.” he said softly, eyes moving across her face to take in every inch of it.

Her expression morphed from friendly stranger to stunned recognition.

“No, your not.” she whispered with a shake of her head. He frowned only to have her throw her arms around his neck and press her lips to his. His confusion lasted only a moment, before his paws landed on her body, pulling her closer. When their kiss ended, she pulled back to look him in the eyes. “You’re my Zorro.”

“Actually, tonight I’m Maui.”

Laughing, she nodded. “I can live with that. And after tonight?”

“Would you be ok with me just being Nick?”

“Bet your ass I will be.” He grinned at her response and kissed her again, before pulling her into the room and slamming the door shut. ………

A/N: Nick and Judy’s costumes are a shout out to Cimar’s pic, The Masked Fox. Put another chapter out, Cimar!! I can’t wait much longer :)!

#zootopia #nickwilde #judyhopps #jack savage #savageskye #wildehopps #au #alternate universe #halloween #blackberry pie #revenge #soulmates

[buckybarnesappreciationsociety]

Pool Party Crashers (Who Invited You?)

Summary: All hell breaks loose at Izzy’s first off-campus pool party!

Pairings: Dad! Bucky X Izzy  

OFC: Reader, Little Stevie, Nat, Wanda, Steve, Sam, Tony, Maddie, Aurala, Zach

Word Count: 1,913

Warnings: NONE

A/N: Thanks again to @shy2shot for the prompt. 

Prompt: “While at a party, you hear screams coming from the main floor and you see flashing lights out of the window. You assume the party is getting busted. What walks through the door is much worse than a police officer.”

Izzy and Maddie settled into college life. Between classes and on campus social activities, she rarely spoke to her family. Their sophomore mentors understood leaving home for the first time made the young freshmen homesick.

The upperclassmen had ice cream socials, movie nights, shopping trips, and group meetings to allow the freshmen a chance to voice their opinion about whatever’s bothering them. Izzy vented about her aunts and uncles, the Avengers. She didn’t want anyone to shun her because sometimes, they were a bit over the top. The other students chimed in how cool it was to have Earth’s Mightiest Heroes for family. Izzy talked about her life in Stark Tower and her dad, James Buchanan Barnes. No one had a negative comment about the former Winter Soldier. One of the students wanted Captain America’s autograph!

Meanwhile, Bucky felt lost without hearing from Izzy. Yes, she’d send a text every now and again, but he wanted to actually hear her voice. Y/N assured her anxious husband Izzy was just fine. College life is different from high school. It proved to be quite an adjustment.

Stevie, on the other hand, loved being the only child at home. He and Bucky went fishing, camped out in the backyard under the stars, and much to Y/N’s dismay, Stevie rode on the back of Bucky’s Harley Davidson.

Sitting in the common room, Bucky stared at his cell phone. Y/N walked in and shook her head. “James, what are you doing?”

“I haven’t heard from Izzy in 3 days. What if something’s wrong? Do you think Hydra found her?”

Bucky began hyperventilating. Y/N rushed to his side, rubbing circles on his back.

“James, breathe sweetheart.” Her soothing voice coupled with deep breathing calmed the flustered dad.

“Baby, Izzy’s doing well. She’s busy with classes and social activities.”

“What kind of social activities? Wild parties and drinking?” Bucky jumped up, stalking towards the garage.

Y/N had enough. She caught up to her husband staring him down. “James Buchanan Barnes! You need to calm down!!” Her voice boomed. “OUR DAUGHTER DOES NOT DRINK, NOR DOES SHE ATTEND WILD PARTIES!!!”

Bucky’s eyes were wide and his mouth shut tight. Y/N shot daggers at her husband. Stevie thought it best not to say anything. He and Sam played Minecraft on the new XBox One S.

“Mom’s really angry at dad. I’m staying out of her way.” Stevie stuffed a handful of popcorn in his mouth.

“Yeah, Bucky messed up big time. Serves him right.” Sam didn’t have an ounce of sympathy for the beleaguered super soldier.

After the tongue lashing from his wife, Bucky decided it best to go and workout. Y/N was on the warpath! Good thing Steve, Tony and Wanda were out running errands. No one stood a chance with her wrath.

Y/N and Nat sat at the kitchen island, watching Stevie and Sam play video games.

“What did you do with Barnes?” Nat smirked.

“He’s in the gym pouting and taking his frustrations out on an innocent bag.

In the meantime, Izzy and Maddie were planning to attend their very first college pool party. One of the upperclass students, Aurala, invited some freshmen over to her house for food, fun, swimming and most importantly, NO ALCOHOL!

But, what would college be without a keg or four, right? A few fraternity members decided it would be cool to crash the party and bring beer. Aurala’s parents trusted her to be responsible and not have anyone over with drugs or alcohol.

Izzy couldn’t believe she and Maddie were invited. To say they were excited didn’t come close. The ecstatic young ladies went shopping for new bikinis, towels, flip flops, and lip gloss.

A nice freshman, Zachary, had his eyes on Izzy. He was handsome, courteous, and highly intelligent. Y/N met him and approved of their friendship, but kept it from her overzealous husband.

The day of the pool party, Bucky phoned Izzy. “Hey sweetheart. How are ya?”

“Dad! Hi. I’m fine...you?” She sounded nervous and Bucky picked up on it.

Perplexed, Bucky furrowed his brow.“Buttercup, is everything alright?”

Maddie motioned for Izzy to calm down. “Yes daddy. We’re on our way to the gym. Gotta keep my body in shape.”

Bucky choked, “WHAT!!! NO ONE IS WATCHING YOUR BODY!!”

Izzy and Maddie could hardly breathe from laughing. “James Barnes, calm down!!!”

“Wait a minute young lady. Did you just call me by my first name?”

“I sure did. Stop being so overprotective. Maddie and I are fine. Now, I love you. Give my love to everyone. Smooches.”

Throwing a pillow at her flustered roommate, Maddie scolded Izzy. “You have no earthly idea how to lie? Your dad is NOT dumb. He’ll figure out what we’re gonna do and mess it up.”

Izzy groaned, “I’m sorry Maddie.  Maybe he’ll forget about it?”

Looking at each other, “Nope...he won’t!”

To a “normal” parent, it probably would’ve been overlooked. But, to James Buchanan Barnes, he knew something wasn’t right. Taking his concerns to Steve, they devised a plan to discover what Izzy was hiding.

POOL PARTY FUN

Zach, Maddie and Izzy arrived at Aurala’s home via taxi. It wasn’t far from campus and they split the fare.

Ringing the doorbell, Aurala greeted her guests. The excited threesome were led to the pool area. A rousing game of volleyball was taking place in the pool, while some played ping pong and video games.

Zach chased Izzy around the deck; Maddie joined a few of her classmates in the pool. Things were going great until a few frat boys decided to crash the gathering.

POOL PARTY RUCKUS

Aurala, visibly upset, told the rowdy bunch to leave. She didn’t want any trouble. Adhering to her wishes, they left, but decided to return unbeknownst to her.

Some of the older girls and guys started drinking and everything went downhill from there. The party spilled out into the back and side of the house.

Izzy, Maddie, Zach and some other attendees decided it best to go upstairs and sit this out, while Aurala tried to calm things down.

Well, by now, no one was paying any attention to her. Someone brought a beer bong and a round of “chug-a-lug”  began.

Suddenly, blue lights flashed throughout the house. Everything went silent. Zach thought it was the police. Nope! It was James Buchanan Barnes, Steven Grant Rogers, Edward Anthony Stark and Sam Wilson, piling out of two SHIELD vehicles.

What ensued next was like a scene from “COPS.” You could hear the “Bad Boys” theme as the fierce foursome entered the premises.

Steve, dressed as Captain America, asked where Aurala’s parents were.

“Th-they’re not here. W-we were fine until some frat boys crashed.” Aurala was visibly shaken.

Growling, Bucky called Izzy. “Isabella Marie Barnes, get down here now!!”

Zach and Maddie looked at Izzy, “Oh shit. You’re in trouble now.”

Pushing herself off the floor, Izzy and company made their way downstairs. Tony and Sam were chastising the crashers, Steve spoke to Aurala’s parents via phone and Bucky waited for his beloved daughter downstairs.

Leaning against the wall with his massive arms folded, Bucky narrowed his eyes at Izzy. Zach wanted to introduce himself but thought it best not right now.

Feigning innocence, Izzy looked at her dad with puppy dog eyes. “D-dad? Wh-what are you doing here?”

“Where do I begin? First, you sounded a bit off when we spoke. I knew you were lying. Second, the tracker in your necklace alerted me to trouble. Shall I keep going?”

Izzy became enraged. “YOU PUT A TRACKER IN MY NECKLACE??!!! C’MON DAD!! GIVE ME A BREAK!!” She stomped outside by the pool, burying her face in her hands.

It hurt Bucky to see his daughter upset. Sitting in the deck chair next to her, Bucky reached out for Izzy’s hand and she pulled back.

“Dad, when will you ever trust me? Yes, I lied; yes, things got out of hand; yes, I’m kinda glad you showed up. But, I’m in college now. How long before you let me go?”

The hurt on Izzy’s face broke his heart. “Sugar Plum, this is a new experience for me. Ya see, I never dreamed I’d ever be worthy enough for a girlfriend, much less a wife and kids. You, Stevie and your mother are my heartbeat. Should something happen to ya, it’d kill me. Please forgive me. I just love’ya so much.”

A tear rolled down Bucky’s jaw. Izzy scooted over for him to sit next to her. “I’m so sorry. I know you worry about me but you have to know I’d never do anything stupid like drink alcohol or do drugs. We were having a really good time until the frat boys showed up. Aurala asked them to leave and they came back.”

“I’m just glad you’re alright. Just don’t lie to me baby. Makes me think you don’t trust me.”

Hugging her dad, “Only if you’ll cut me some slack. Trust me to do what’s right. I’ll never do anything to put myself in harm’s way.”

Nodding, Bucky agreed, “I’ll try. Don’cha lie to me again.”

Zach walked outside and cleared his throat and extended his hand. “M-M-Mr. Barnes? H-hi my name is Zachary. I’m a friend of Isabella’s. N-nice to meet you sir.”

Bucky flashed his metal hand but thought better. “Nice to meet you son. James Barnes.”

Looking between he and Izzy, “Is he your boyfriend?” The word caused bile to rise in Bucky’s throat.

“No dad. He’s a really good friend. Mom liked him the minute they met.”

Eyes bulging, “Your mom knows about him and I didn’t??”

Izzy simply kissed Bucky on the cheek. As the crowd dispersed, Maddie, Zach and Izzy were taken back to campus.

Tony made certain the dean would hear about the frat boys antics and they would be dealt with accordingly.

Steve, Tony and Sam waited by the tinted window SUV as Bucky escorted Maddie and Izzy to their dorm room.

Maddie thanked him for coming when they did. Things could’ve really gotten out of hand.

“I’ve had an eventful night dad. Think I’ll shower and go to sleep. Uh, I appreciate you guys showing up. Please give me a chance to prove to you I’m responsible.”

Kissing the top of her head Bucky replied, “It won’t be easy, but I’ll try. I love ya so much baby girl.”

Giving Bucky a huge hug, “I love you so much Daddy Buckwoo. You’re the best.”

Two lessons were learned from this:

First, NEVER lie to your parents; especially if they’re a former master assassin with  endless tracking resources. Communication is key!

Finally, trust your daughter to be responsible. You raised a young lady with high moral values. Your baby bird has left the nest. Allow her to fly!

[katedoesfics]

Shadows of the Future | Chapter 24

By evening, Rusl and Uli started to get visitors. Her parents came first, unable to come any sooner due to her mother’s treatments. And though they could not stay long, they spent as much time as they could with Uli and their new grandson, treasuring every moment they had together.

   It was shortly after when Dorian brought Koko and Cottla by, and they bounded eagerly into the room, anxious to see the new baby.

Cottla stood on her tiptoes to see into the crib. She smiled down at the baby as his eyes opened curiously. His wide eyes took in his surroundings, then met her gaze.

   “Hi, Link,” she said in a hushed tone. “I’m Cottla. We’re gonna be best friends. You’ll see!” She moved a finger to touch his cheek gently. “You’re gonna be a hero someday.”

   Koko moved to her sister’s side. She, too, was mesmerized by the baby that wiggled before them.

   “Listen to what Impa says,” Koko said to him. “And maybe you’ll be strong like us.”

   Cottla giggled. “Yeah, right!”

   “He is the hero, you know,” Koko hissed at her younger sister. “He’ll be way stronger than all of us combined.”

   Cottla frowned. “Well, don’t tell him that,” she whined. She turned to her father. “Are you gonna teach him to use his powers?”

   Rusl frowned. Though they were Hylian, it hadn’t occurred to him that the power she spoke of was an innate part of who they were, and therefor, a part of his son as well. It was a part that had been lost in history, and most Hylians weren’t even aware of such abilities. And though he was among the few who were, and more so had been able to use such powers, he had no idea as to how to control it. It was likely that, as long as he and Uli were alive, Link wouldn’t even be able to tap into that power, anyway. But still, Cottla’s constant and surprising awareness of the truth of the world started to bring his earlier fear forward once more.

   Dorian, too, knew that Link would likely not be capable of powers as extraordinary as Koko suggested; not right away, anyway. Still, he did not correct his excitable daughters. “I don’t think so,” he said simply. He glanced quickly at Rusl, checking his expression. It was clear that Rusl, too, was processing this information, judging by how his brows had knit together, deep in thought.

   “How else is he gonna save Hyrule?” Cottla asked.

   “He doesn’t necessarily need any power to do that,” Dorian explained. “The power of the Triforce is enough.”

   “With the Master Sword,” Koko pointed out. “He’s the only one who can use it. And that will kill all of our enemies!”

   “Yeah!” Cottla thrust a fist in the air. She turned her attention back to the baby. “You’re gonna have a cool sword! You’ll be the coolest kid in the whole world!”

   Rusl felt Dorian’s hand on his shoulder, pulling him out of his thoughts. He smiled at Cottla. “Cooler than me?”

   “Probably,” she said. She grinned at him and shrugged. “It’s just the truth.”

   “So blunt,” Rusl muttered.

   “Only a little cooler, though,” Cottla added. “Because you still do stuff with us and let us do things that Daddy doesn’t.”

   Rusl felt Dorian glaring at him. He folded his arms across his chest. “I won’t if you keep blabbing!”

   Cottla covered her mouth and giggled. “It’s funny when he gets mad at you.”

   “He’s always mad at me,” Rusl pointed out.

   Koko nodded in agreement.

   “I already have a headache,” Dorian said, pressing a finger to his temple.

   “This is what you would have to deal with if we had another one,” Uli said. She was dressed now and had stepped out of the bathroom. She smiled at Dorian in greeting.

   “You want another one?” Dorian asked, turning to Rusl in surprise.

   “Maybe,” Rusl said. “Someday! I dunno!”

   Dorian grinned. “Sucker.”

   Rusl punched his shoulder and sulked.

   “You’re gonna have more babies?” Cottla exclaimed excitedly. “Can you have a girl next time?”

   Dorian shushed his daughters. “Why don’t you go get some sugar or something?”

   “We can have candy?” Koko asked eagerly. “From the machine?”

   They didn’t wait for an answer, however. Cottla quickly took her sister’s hand and they hurried out the door.

   “You’ll regret that,” Uli said with a grin.

   “Learn from my mistakes,” Dorian muttered. “And don’t have a second kid.”

   “Aw, come on,” Uli started. She kissed his cheek. “You wouldn’t change that for the world.”

   “But at least I didn’t have kids with Rusl,” Dorian reminded her. “You don’t know how these kids will turn out. If they’re anything like him -”

   “You know,” Rusl started, “You’d be lucky to have a kid like me.”

   “Good luck,” Dorian said to Uli. “You’ll need it.”

   “You’re gonna need it tonight if those girls get at all the candy,” Uli said. She stepped out of the room to follow them and offer motherly guidance.

   Rusl stepped forward and carefully picked Link up. He stirred slightly, opening his eyes and looking up at his father with a blank expression.

   “Come on.” Rusl held the baby out. “Hold your Godson.”

   Dorian was hesitant as Rusl placed the baby in his arms. Link yawned and his fingers grasped at the air a few times before he settled in and fell back asleep. Dorian could feel the power of the Triforce clear as day. He moved his hand gently over the baby, and the Triforce began to glow faintly on Link’s left hand for a brief moment before disappearing.

   Rusl stared at the Triforce, even after it disappeared. His lips pinched together. He met Dorian’s gaze, and Dorian offered him a reassuring smile.

   “I have a feeling he’s going to be as stubborn as you,” Dorian said.

   Rusl smiled. “Yeah,” he said. “Probably.”

   “I’d say Hyrule is in pretty good hands.” Dorian turned his attention back to the baby. “Keep your father in line, hm? Hylia knows he’ll need it.”

*****

   Rusl and Uli returned home with their new bundle of joy that night. However, the joy and excitement of their new child was short lived. Just a week after Link entered the world, Uli’s mother left their world, succumbing to her long illness.

   Rusl tried not to bother his mourning wife, but the birth of their son would soon bring the Yiga Clan out of the shadows, and as Dorian carefully reminded him, they were not safe staying in Faron.

   It was shortly after her mother’s funeral, and just a few short weeks after Link’s birth when Dorian called Rusl, late at night. His phone vibrated noisily against the nightstand, alerting both Uli and Rusl. Uli shushed him angrily, muttering under her breath about waking the baby, and Rusl answered it as quickly as he could in the darkness and in his half asleep state.

   “Rusl.” Dorian’s voice was fierce, causing Rusl’s mind to snap into focus, completely awake now.

   “D.” He rubbed his eyes. “What’s wrong?”

   “Listen to me,” he hissed. “Kohga’s goons are hunting you. You need to leave now.”

   Rusl blinked in the darkness. He hesitated, then turned to Uli when he felt her hand on him. “Okay,” he said. “Where are you?”

   “I can’t get to you,” he said. “Wait further instruction.”

   The call ended.

   Rusl moved his phone slowly away from his face, his heart racing. He stared at the phone until Uli spoke.

   “Is it the Yiga Clan?”

   Rusl nodded.

   “Alright,” Uli said. She took her husband’s hand in her’s. “What’s the plan?”

   “We’re leaving,” he said as he got up from the bed. He quickly pulled on his pants, and his phone began to ring again. He shimmied on a shirt as he answered it. This time, it was Impa.

   “I’m sending you coordinates,” she started. “My men already have eyes on you.”

   “That’s a breech of my privacy,” Rusl said.

   “Yes, they’ve informed me of how big your damn dick is,” Impa muttered. “I have no time for your shit, Rusl.”

   Rusl’s brows furrowed. “What about D?”

   “Don’t worry about him right now,” she said. “A team will meet you outside of Faron and escort the three of you to the city. Do as they say. Do you understand me?”

   “This isn’t my first rodeo.”

   “You are no longer a part of Roham’s army,” Impa sneered. “If you so much as step a toe out of line -”

   “Alright,” he growled. “Your way or the highway.”

   “The lives of your family are on the line, Rusl. You knew this would happen. Dorian has done everything he could to hold them back. Don’t fuck this up.”

   “We’ll be there within the hour.”

   “Cado will be waiting.”

   “Cado, huh?” It had been a while since he had seen the Sheikah that took him off the streets as a child.

   “When you get to the city, I expect you to come directly to me. I will be waiting at the shrine.”

   The call ended.

   Rusl slipped the phone in his pocket. He turned to the doorway where Uli stood, Link in her arms.

   “Do you think we can at least come back for my mother’s hutch?” she said.

   Rusl smiled. “Not for nothing,” he started, “but I did warn you that we should have left sooner.”

   “So if we get killed, this is my fault?”

   “Yes.”

   Uli sneered at him. “And here I was thinking how grateful I was that you let me stay with my mother until she passed.”

   “I am very considerate like that.”

   Uli sighed. Her gaze on him softened. “Shit,” she spat. “You’re right. We’re going to fucking die.”

   Rusl put his hands on her face and kissed her. “We’re not going to die,” he said. “I won’t let that happen.”

   “I don’t think you can make that kind of promise,” she said.

   “You underestimate me,” he said. “I’ve killed more Yiga than you realize. Besides, we’ve got Sheikah on our side.”

   Uli hesitated. “Alright,” she said. “I trust you.”

   Rusl’s phone vibrated once more as a text came through. As promised, Impa provided him with the coordinates. “Ready?” he asked.

   Uli nodded. “Let’s go.”

#sotf #shadows of the future #loz #botw #legend of zelda #breath of the wild #fic #fanfic #sotf24

[clamjumper5-blog]

A Healthy Hedonist’s Guide to Paris: Gluten-Free Eats + Sights in the City of Love

Paris has been a gluten-free beacon of love and carbs for us over the last two years.

I’m usually not that into Hallmark holidays, but last year, for whatever reason, when Charlie told me he’d be traveling on Valentine’s Day, I got a little diva-like pit in my stomach.

I pictured myself sitting alone watching Sandra Bullock reruns with a 3-course meal of matcha truffles, modestly-priced steak, and salted caramel pudding. Then I immediately moved on to a superior alternative that made me a lot less sad: having dinner with my OG Valentine, my dad.

I don’t know why I cared so much about doing something special last year, when on most other Valentine’s Days my preference is to avoid prefix menus like the plague and do nothing at all. But I’m sure it had something to do with all the book-related work that left me craving an evening of being coddled and pampered. Other sugar daddy to the rescue!

The biggest reason I can’t give Charlie a hard time is because for my birthday this year, he already showered me with the most romantic gift a girl could ask for: a long weekend trip to Paris. Had he pulled that super Romeo move on me on February 14th, I probably would have rolled my eyes and barfed a little in my mouth (diva!). But in November it was the perfect gift. And come December, when we finally woke up on the tarmac of Charles de Gaulle airport, it was the beginning of the most make-out and food-filled trip I’ve taken in adult life.

(see?)

Paris is the city of love, yes. But for me it’s always held memories of a different type of romance. Back when I was three years old, my OG Valentine (along with my mom) moved our small nuclear family across the Atlantic for a few years. We lived a stone’s throw from Les Invalides on the Right Bank, which I used to call the Emerald City because of its gold dome and sprawling Oz-like greenery.

So my favorite moments of our trip were not the pounds of steak frites or kisses shared under the Eiffel Tower, it was getting to share all those childhood fragments with Charlie as we covered the city on foot from end to end, having him humor me as we played the game my mother and I always used to play of guessing what color the seats would be at the following metro stop, and humoring me even further when I wanted to take us another mile out of the way to relive what a chocolate eclair tasted like in gluten-free form.

Speaking of being gluten-free in Paris, it’s a lot easier than it used to be. I’ve included some of the recommendations below, but just know that like in the States, not every loaf of GF bread is created equal. Take a detour to Chambelland early in your trip and buy a loaf and carry it in your purse for the rest of your stay. I tried the ones at Eric Kayser, No Glu and Helmet Newcake and they weren’t as good. This is key, because you’re going to need something to soak up all that restaurant butter.

If that’s recommendation 1.a. for the GF folks. 1.b. for the rest of you is to balance your trip with a mix of old and new. You’ll see in the itinerary I laid out below that I didn’t give you a back-to-back bistro highlight reel. There’s some incredibly inventive cuisine happening in Paris right now that is worth taking a break from cassoulet and soupe l’oignon for. Plus, if you eat on the healthier end at home, you will burn out from this particular French brand of hedonism very quickly. Pace yourself, folks.

My last recommendation is to walk as much as you can. It’s truly the best way to see the city. We managed to log 10 miles a day! Pack your shoes accordingly, and bring a second pair, since you will inevitably get blistered from your first. We loved the little AirBNB we stayed in on the 5th floor of a immeuble in the 9th, even if it meant many more blisters walking up all those stairs!

This time around, it was definitely a sobering experience for us bourgeois lovers of Parisian oat milk to experience the Gilet Jaunes lighting the city on fire literally and figuratively with their anger. You can see some of the scenes below, juxtaposed of course with my favorite 3 euro macarons. Needless to say, I couldn’t feel more grateful for the life I was born into that allows me to see the world, and savor every morsel.

Just being able to reminisce about this trip feels like a gift. And let me just say for all my Galentine’s: you don’t need a date to have the most glorious time in Paris. My last two trips 7 years ago and in college were both solo, and I had an equally magical weekend reading, wandering and day drinking in cafes.

Read on for my favorite gluten-free finds and ways to spend a long weekend in the city of luuuuurve.

From one healthy, Francophile hedonist, to another,

Xoxo Phoebe

THE BEST PARIS FOOD DESTINATIONS (& WHAT TO EAT IF YOU’RE GLUTEN-FREE)

Afternoon

*Breizh Cafe, The Marais.

This was our first food stop in Paris, after fighting our jetlag to make it through two floors of the Pompidou Center on an empty stomach. Needless to say, I was extremely hangry by the time we arrived at this little gem in the Marais, and almost had a meltdown when we were told there was no table available. Luckily, the maître d’ took pity on us silly Americans and found us two seats next door at the small to-go shop. We actually got the better experience, I think. As we waited for our gluten-free buckwheat crepes to arrive, we sipped a carafe of their in-house hard cider and drooled over all the delicate tins of sardines, cases of smoked meats, rich butters and countless products made from the restaurant’s signature buckwheat. Just make sure to read the back of the packages, as many of the pastas and crisps also include wheat flour. As for my order, I went with the special, which included cured duck, mushrooms and comte. But you can’t go wrong with the complet.

L’As du Falafel, The Marais.

Back when I could eat gluten, this was a very necessary stop when visiting the old Jewish quarter of the Marais. The streets are worth visiting anyway, as the trendy boutiques suddenly tapper off into a jam-packed block of Judaica. The falafel is the best in the city, but they also have schwarma for the GF folk.

Miznon, The Marais

Down the street from all the falafel shops in the Jewish corner, is this Israeli outpost with creative spins on classic sandwiches. The lamb pita is excellent, but they will also do any of their sandwiches as a plate for the GF folk. I got the beef bourgingnon, which is not something I would think to try at an Israeli restaurant, but their take on it was incredibly light and flavorful, especially with a dousing of green sauce on top. The highlight for healthy-minded folks is the whole charred cauliflower, which emerges still attached to its leaves and roots. New Yorkers: you can also find a stand in Chelsea Market, but it’s not the same as the original.

Chambelland, 10th.

This gluten-free bakery was the only place I found that did French bread the right way. It had the same crispy exterior and tangy sourdough flavor that characterizes the best of the table baskets. Get a loaf to-go, or simply enjoy a tuna sandwich or square of focaccia (tomato-olive is amazing) as a mid-afternoon snack. Also, get a bag of the mini financiers.

Helmut Newcake, 1st.

In addition to being the best-named patisserie in all the land, Helmut Newcake has the type of highfalutin pastries that make you think you’re staring at a jewelry case—and they’re all gluten-free! It was such a treat to get to have a chocolate eclair after all these years. The chocolate chip cookie is also insanely buttery and decadent.

Claus, 1st.

Breakfast isn’t as much of a “thing” in France as it is in the states. Usually, people just grab a croissant and cafe on the go. One morning when we were craving eggs, we ended up at this cute spot near our hotel. Honestly, the breakfast was pretty underwhelming. But it’s worth a visit for the gluten-free green tea financiers, which were the most delicious treat of the trip. Had we done it over, I would have saved my breakfast for when we visited Canal St. Martin (see below).

Holybelly, Canal St. Martin.

We didn’t manage to squeeze in some eggs or black rice porridge from Holybelly, but walked around the cool and quaint surrounding area of Canal St. Martin, where there are a bunch of up-and-coming juice bars (Bob’s) and gluten-free cafes (Ten Belles) popping up. This is definitely the neighborhood to go to if you want a break from butter. And I loved capturing the heart-shaped lock picture above.

Hotel L’Amour, 10th.

This hotel restaurant has a quaint fashionable interior with a beautiful garden to sit outside in warmer months. It’s an excellent spot for brunch, with a whole array of vegetarian options. The vegan butternut squash soup was delicious, as was the poulet roti and plate of scrambled eggs.

Ellsworth, 1st.

This brunch spot has all the usual Southern fixtures—French toast, fried chicken, duck hash—but they’re prepared in a distinctly French way. The hash was a gluten-free favorite of mine, and I also loved the beet salad with homemade light-as-air Greek yogurt.

Au Petit Tonneau, 7th.

We wandered into this little neighborhood gem during our day of exploring the right bank, as we made our way from Musee D’Orsay to go make-out under the Eiffel tower. It was everything we wanted in a bistrot: small tables, chalkboard menus, old ladies ordering whole bottles of wine at 2pm, and husband and wife waiters, who took breaks in between busing our tables to enjoy a bite of lunch with their family at the back table. The most notable dish here is the veal stew, which is served over cardamom scented rice. Unfortunately, it’s thickened with flour (hey-ho France), but I snuck a small taste of the sauce and it was mind-blowing. Equally good (and gluten-free): the escargot, salad Paysenne with thick lardons, and the sautéed scallops.

Le Comptoir de la Mer, 6th

The two small bars next to one another, one dedicated to seafood, the other to meats, are a fun concept based on basque-style pintxos, where you order small plate after small plate, standing up, before heading to the next joint and doing the same. I love that they serve butter in a giant ball on the counter that you can scrape off to your heart’s content.

Pierre Herme, 6th

Perhaps the most famous macaron purveyor in Paris, Pierre lives up to all the hype. The cookies are light and tender, while the filling isn’t too sweet. More importantly, they offer a variety of surprising and creative combinations. My favorite was the half raspberry, half pistachio, and the pomegranate and cream.

NoGlu, 6th

As I mentioned above, I was not overly blown away by the bread at this gluten-free cafe. Still, it’s a nice place to grab a sandwich, and if you’re craving a croque monsieur, theirs certainly hits the spot. I’ve also heard good things about their quiche and madeleine’s, but generally prefer chambelland and helmet newcake for GF goodies.

Evening

Le Grand Bain, 9th

The menu changes daily at this veg-centric small plates joint. The chef is young and inventive, but also can turn out French classics like moules with aioli that rival the best bistros in town. They were willing to adapt almost the whole menu to be gluten-free and also had plenty of vegan options. Besides the moules, my favorite dish was the broccoletti with caviar. Charlie could not resist the fois gras stuffed quail.

Balagan, 1st

We went for lunch at this upscale Israeli restaurant near The Louvre, but it’s chic design and cool lounge in back would make it even better as a nighttime destination. The kale salad with turmeric aioli and Mediterranean take on steak frites (both GF!) were fabulous. The waitstaff was also very knowledgable about my allergy.

Le Villaret, 10th

Right down the street from Chambelland, is this classic bistrot that serves up impeccably cooked steak and other French fare. It’s been renovated to be slightly more modern on the interior, but still feels homey and cozy. It’s a great option for a casual, yet refined meal that’s unfussy and worth the price tag.

Bistrot Paul Bert, 11th.

Though a bigger operation than Tonneau, it doesn’t get more classic than this French institution. It’s a little off the beaten path, but worth a visit for a traditional meal of all the things you came to France for: sole meuniere, steak frites and soufflés. Gluten-free folk are good to go on the steak and fries and simple butter-soaked scallops in their shell, but sadly have to sit out dessert. My favorite part of our meal is that they decanted our wine into a giant wine glass, which made for some wonderful photo opps. I’m pretty sure they stuck us in the front room with all the other English speakers for this very reason.

Le Clown Bar, 10th.

This was both Charlie and my favorite meal in Paris. I was skeptical at first, as I’m not one to opt for trends or novelty over the classics (in Paris, no less). But this meal was truly the most inventive and delicious one I’ve had in any city in recent memory. Much to my surprise, the highlight of the night—in addition to the whole pigeon that arrived talons-on, and still smoking on a plate—was the bowl of brains. As you can see above, they did very little to distract or disguise the main ingredient, which I suppose is what good French cooking is all about. The texture was similar to tofu, and combined with a delicate dashi broth, each spoonful melted in your mouth. It’s best to get a reservation in advance, but there’s a great little hipster cocktail bar around the corner called Bespoke if you have to wait.

Le Relais de Entrecote, 6th

An institution with locations in New York and London, this steak and frites chain never disappoints. And somehow, there’s nothing like the real thing in Paris. It’s also a perfect venue for celiacs, since the famous secret sauce is gluten-free and there’s nothing else on the menu but salad, steak and fries, so the fryer is also fair game. Save room for dessert, as their sundaes are legendary!

Le Servan, 12th.

I loved the neighborhood vibe of this place, which made me feel like we were back in Brooklyn. The food was simple, elegant and if I’m being honest, slightly underwhelming. We ended up here because of this Eater list, which said that the clams were one of the best dishes in Paris. Unfortunately, said clams had soy sauce in them (wah wah). Add it to your list if you want to check out a new neighborhood that’s more residential and bohemian. The one dish that really stood out and was worth returning for was the scallop with butterscotch. The menu changes daily, though, so perhaps we just ordered wrong.

Cocktail Hour

Le Mary Celeste, The Marais

If you’re looking for a great spot to grab oysters or deviled eggs before or after dinner, this divey spot in the Marais is it. Compared to most cocktail bars in Paris, this one is a nice mix of tourists and locals.

Le Syndicat, 9th

Another small cocktail bar with creative drinks, including one with kombucha and cucumber that I enjoyed.

The Hemingway Bar, 1st

If you like 30 euro cocktails in a lavish setting, nothing gets more classic than this hideaway in the back of The Ritz. Go early and put your name down. Be prepared to take out a second mortgage to cover your martini.

Le Meurice, 1st

Slightly easier to get into than Hemingway, and equally expensive drinks in ornate surroundings. Charlie swears by a lunch time burger here as well.

ITINERARY: AN IDEAL LONG WEEKEND IN PARIS

If you have an extra day, the Louvre is an obvious must. It’s so ginormous though that we chose to cross many of the smaller museums off our list and spend more time walking between neighborhoods. Another favorite that we didn’t fit into this itinerary is Sacre Coeur, which has an unparalleled view of the city at sunset and is a fun neighborhood to grab a pre-dinner glass of wine. Definitely go if you have one more night. Also, it should be noted that we went to Paris in December. If it’s warm out, a meat and cheese picnic in the Tuileries or Jardin du Luxembourg is also a must. But the gardens around the Louis Vuitton Foundation are also beautiful for a picnic or romp.

Friday, the Marais + Left Bank >>Start the day at the Pompidou center and explore the contemporary and modern collections >>Spend the afternoon exploring the Marais neighborhood; stop into Merci for home goods and decor, and wander the shops and boutiques. >>Have an early lunch of gluten-free buckwheat crepes at Breizh, along wtih a cup of one of their hard ciders (you’re in Europe, after all!). >> Pop into Musee National Picasso >> Grab a mid-afternoon snack at L’As du Fallafel or Miznon >> GF folks should make a detour to the 10th to grab a midafternoon snack at Chambelland, along with a loaf of gluten-free bread for the rest of the trip >>Head to dinner at Bistrot Paul Bert or Le Villaret for an authentic Parisian experience with all the typical fixings. You’ll be too buttered out by day 3 to handle this.

Saturday, the Right Bank >>Start the day at Musee D’Orsay to take in the vast impressionist collection and early work of Manet and Van Gogh. >>Wander through Napoleon’s old stomping grounds, Les Invalides (with optional detour to either the Musee De L’Armee or the Rodin Museum around the corner) >>Stop for lunch at Au Petit Tonneau for a classic red gingham tablecloth meal of escargot, salad Paysenne and veal stew. >>Continue walking off your meal to the Eiffel Tower for your requisite photo opp. >> Either pop in for more contemporary art at Palais de Tokyo, or metro back to the St. Germain-des-Pres area and enjoy a cafe at a one of the old literary haunts – Les Deux Maggot or Cafe de Flore (touristy, but fun!).

>> Check out Musee de L’Arme for French firearms and battle garb or to say hey to Napoleon in his tomb >> You can also make a pit stop at Bon Marche for some foodie keepsakes >> Take a break from all the butter with some nouveau French cuisine at Le Clown Bar or Le Grand Bain. Get past the ick factor and order the brains—it’s a must. >>Have a nightcap at the Hemingway bar at the Ritz.

Sunday, Further Afield >>Start the day with a Franco-American brunch at Hotel L’Amour or Ellsworth (make a reservation in advance), or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by 48 hours of French food, a healthy bite at Holybelly, where you can also stroll by the water in Canal St. Martin. >>Venture further afield to check out the new Louis Vuitton foundation near jardin d’acclimatation, i.e. the coolest kid’s park that ever was. You can also swap this for a day at the Louvre. >>Enjoy a mid-day cafe and pastry at Helmut Newcakes, which has the best GF eclairs in Paris! >> Head home to wherever you came from, carrying all the shoes and baguettes you can fit in your carry-on.

READER RECS

I got a lot of recommendations from readers on gluten-free and healthy restaurants in Paris. Especially in the Marais and the 9th, there are a ton of Brooklyn-esque smoothie and avocado toast spots cropping up. I didn’t find many of them to be worth it, including Wild & The Moon, which is now a chain. Their GF scone and acai bowl were sub-par, if I’m being honest. The produce in France is better across the board, and I’d personally, much rather enjoy veggies in the context of butter, cooked simply and traditionally, doing what Paris does best, than another culture’s attempt at avocado toast. That said, I’m including the full list below in case you want to try any of them, along with some more restaurants that I’ve been dying to try but haven’t been able to get to!

Gluten-free restaurants and healthy cafes:

Sitron (GF bakery) Echo Deli Cafe Woodies Le Coulauncourt Maisie Cafe The Broken Arm Republique of Coffee Cuppa Cafe BigLove (GF pizza) Cafe Berry Cafe Mareva Cafe Mericourt (shakshouka) Jay and Joy (vegan cheeses!)

Nouveau French restaurants and wine bars: 

Vivant CAM Brutos Frenchie Clamato

***

Have any of you recently been to Paris? Any new or old haunts or must-see’s that I should add to my list for next time? I’m dying to go back! Let me know in the comments section

Source: https://feedmephoebe.com/healthy-hedonists-guide-paris-gluten-free-long-weekend-city-love/

[buckybarnesappreciationsociety]

Party Crashers

Summary: All hell breaks loose at Izzy’s first off-campus pool party!

Pairings: Dad! Bucky X Izzy  

OFC: Reader, Little Stevie, Nat, Wanda, Steve, Sam, Tony, Maddie, Aurala, Zach

Word Count: 1,913

Warnings: NONE

Thanks again to @shy2shot for the prompt. I had so much fun writing about Izzy and her college adventures.

Prompt: “While at a party, you hear screams coming from the main floor and you see flashing lights out of the window. You assume the party is getting busted. What walks through the door is much worse than a police officer.”

Izzy and Maddie settled into college life. Between classes and on campus social activities, she rarely spoke to her family. Their sophomore mentors understood leaving home for the first time made the young freshmen homesick.

The upperclassmen had ice cream socials, movie nights, shopping trips, and group meetings to allow the freshmen a chance to voice their opinion about whatever’s bothering them. Izzy vented about her aunts and uncles, the Avengers. She didn’t want anyone to shun her because sometimes, they were a bit over the top. The other students chimed in how cool it was to have Earth’s Mightiest Heroes for family. Izzy talked about her life in Stark Tower and her dad, James Buchanan Barnes. No one had a negative comment about the former Winter Soldier. One of the students wanted Captain America’s autograph!

Meanwhile, Bucky felt lost without hearing from Izzy. Yes, she’d send a text every now and again, but he wanted to actually hear her voice. Y/N assured her anxious husband Izzy was just fine. College life is different from high school. It proved to be quite an adjustment.

Stevie, on the other hand, loved being the only child at home. He and Bucky went fishing, camped out in the backyard under the stars, and much to Y/N’s dismay, Stevie rode on the back of Bucky’s Harley Davidson.

Sitting in the common room, Bucky stared at his cell phone. Y/N walked in and shook her head. “James, what are you doing?”

“I haven’t heard from Izzy in 3 days. What if something’s wrong? Do you think Hydra found her?”

Bucky began hyperventilating. Y/N rushed to his side, rubbing circles on his back.

“James, breathe sweetheart.” Her soothing voice coupled with deep breathing calmed the flustered dad.

“Baby, Izzy’s doing well. She’s busy with classes and social activities.”

“What kind of social activities? Wild parties and drinking?” Bucky jumped up, stalking towards the garage.

Y/N had enough. She caught up to her husband staring him down. “James Buchanan Barnes! You need to calm down!!” Her voice boomed. “OUR DAUGHTER DOES NOT DRINK, NOR DOES SHE ATTEND WILD PARTIES!!!”

Bucky’s eyes were wide and his mouth shut tight. Y/N shot daggers at her husband. Stevie thought it best not to say anything. He and Sam played Minecraft on the new XBox One S.

“Mom’s really angry at dad. I’m staying out of her way.” Stevie stuffed a handful of popcorn in his mouth.

“Yeah, Bucky messed up big time. Serves him right.” Sam didn’t have an ounce of sympathy for the beleaguered super soldier.

After the tongue lashing from his wife, Bucky decided it best to go and workout. Y/N was on the warpath! Good thing Steve, Tony and Wanda were out running errands. No one stood a chance with her wrath.

Y/N and Nat sat at the kitchen island, watching Stevie and Sam play video games.

“What did you do with Barnes?” Nat smirked.

“He’s in the gym pouting and taking his frustrations out on an innocent bag.

In the meantime, Izzy and Maddie were planning to attend their very first college pool party. One of the upperclass students, Aurala, invited some freshmen over to her house for food, fun, swimming and most importantly, NO ALCOHOL!

But, what would college be without a keg or four, right? A few fraternity members decided it would be cool to crash the party and bring beer. Aurala’s parents trusted her to be responsible and not have anyone over with drugs or alcohol.

Izzy couldn’t believe she and Maddie were invited. To say they were excited didn’t come close. The ecstatic young ladies went shopping for new bikinis, towels, flip flops, and lip gloss.

A nice freshman, Zachary, had his eyes on Izzy. He was handsome, courteous, and highly intelligent. Y/N met him and approved of their friendship, but kept it from her overzealous husband.

The day of the pool party, Bucky phoned Izzy. “Hey sweetheart. How are ya?”

“Dad! Hi. I’m fine...you?” She sounded nervous and Bucky picked up on it.

Perplexed, Bucky furrowed his brow.“Buttercup, is everything alright?”

Maddie motioned for Izzy to calm down. “Yes daddy. We’re on our way to the gym. Gotta keep my body in shape.”

Bucky choked, “WHAT!!! NO ONE IS WATCHING YOUR BODY!!”

Izzy and Maddie could hardly breathe from laughing. “James Barnes, calm down!!!”

“Wait a minute young lady. Did you just call me by my first name?”

“I sure did. Stop being so overprotective. Maddie and I are fine. Now, I love you. Give my love to everyone. Smooches.”

Throwing a pillow at her flustered roommate, Maddie scolded Izzy. “You have no earthly idea how to lie? Your dad is NOT dumb. He’ll figure out what we’re gonna do and mess it up.”

Izzy groaned, “I’m sorry Maddie.  Maybe he’ll forget about it?”

Looking at each other, “Nope...he won’t!”

To a “normal” parent, it probably would’ve been overlooked. But, to James Buchanan Barnes, he knew something wasn’t right. Taking his concerns to Steve, they devised a plan to discover what Izzy was hiding.

POOL PARTY FUN

Zach, Maddie and Izzy arrived at Aurala’s home via taxi. It wasn’t far from campus and they split the fare.

Ringing the doorbell, Aurala greeted her guests. The excited threesome were led to the pool area. A rousing game of volleyball was taking place in the pool, while some played ping pong and video games.

Zach chased Izzy around the deck; Maddie joined a few of her classmates in the pool. Things were going great until a few frat boys decided to crash the gathering.

POOL PARTY RUCKUS

Aurala, visibly upset, told the rowdy bunch to leave. She didn’t want any trouble. Adhering to her wishes, they left, but decided to return unbeknownst to her.

Some of the older girls and guys started drinking and everything went downhill from there. The party spilled out into the back and side of the house.

Izzy, Maddie, Zach and some other attendees decided it best to go upstairs and sit this out, while Aurala tried to calm things down.

Well, by now, no one was paying any attention to her. Someone brought a beer bong and a round of “chug-a-lug”  began.

Suddenly, blue lights flashed throughout the house. Screams erupted as everyone scrambled to leave. Zach thought it was the police. Nope! It was James Buchanan Barnes, Steven Grant Rogers, Anthony Edward Stark and Sam Wilson, piling out of two SHIELD vehicles, with tinted windows and blue lights flashing.

What ensued next was like a scene from “COPS.” You could hear the “Bad Boys” theme as the fierce foursome entered the premises.

Steve, dressed as Captain America, asked where Aurala’s parents were.

“Th-they’re not here. W-we were fine until some frat boys crashed.” Aurala was visibly shaken.

Growling, Bucky called Izzy. “Isabella Marie Barnes, get down here now!!”

Zach and Maddie looked at Izzy, “Oh shit. You’re in trouble now.”

Pushing herself off the floor, Izzy and company made their way downstairs. Tony and Sam were chastising the crashers, Steve spoke to Aurala’s parents via phone and Bucky waited for his beloved daughter downstairs.

Leaning against the wall with his massive arms folded, Bucky narrowed his eyes at Zach, who just happened to be holding Izzy’s hand. The look on Bucky’s face caused the scared young man to back away and stand next to Maddie.

Feigning innocence, Izzy looked at her dad with puppy dog eyes. “D-dad? Wh-what are you doing here?”

“Where do I begin? First, you sounded a bit off when we spoke. I knew you were lying. Second, the tracker in your necklace alerted me to trouble. Shall I keep going?”

Izzy became enraged. “YOU PUT A TRACKER IN MY NECKLACE??!!! C’MON DAD!! GIVE ME A BREAK!!” She stomped outside by the pool, burying her face in her hands.

It hurt Bucky to see his daughter upset. Sitting in the deck chair next to her, Bucky reached out for Izzy’s hand and she pulled back.

“Dad, when will you ever trust me? Yes, I lied; yes, things got out of hand; yes, I’m kinda glad you showed up. But, I’m in college now. How long before you let me go?”

The hurt on Izzy’s face broke his heart. “Sugar Plum, this is a new experience for me. Ya see, I never dreamed I’d ever be worthy enough for a girlfriend, much less a wife and kids. You, Stevie and your mother are my heartbeat. Should something happen to ya, it’d kill me. Please forgive me. I just love’ya so much.”

A tear rolled down Bucky’s jaw. Izzy scooted over for him to sit next to her. “I’m so sorry. I know you worry about me but you have to know I’d never do anything stupid like drink alcohol or do drugs. We were having a really good time until the frat boys showed up. Aurala asked them to leave and they came back.”

“I’m just glad you’re alright. Just don’t lie to me baby. Makes me think you don’t trust me.”

Hugging her dad, “Only if you’ll cut me some slack. Trust me to do what’s right. I’ll never do anything to put myself in harm’s way.”

Nodding, Bucky agreed, “I’ll try. Don’cha lie to me again.”

Zach walked outside and cleared his throat and extended his hand. “M-M-Mr. Barnes? H-hi my name is Zachary. I’m a friend of Isabella’s. N-nice to meet you sir.”

Bucky flashed his metal hand but thought better. “Nice to meet you son. James Barnes.”

Looking between he and Izzy, “Is he your boyfriend?” The word caused bile to rise in Bucky’s throat.

“No dad. He’s a really good friend. Mom liked him the minute they met.”

Eyes bulging, “Your mom knows about him and I didn’t??”

Izzy simply kissed Bucky on the cheek. As the crowd dispersed, Maddie, Zach and Izzy were taken back to campus.

Tony made certain the dean would hear about the frat boys antics and they would be dealt with accordingly.

Steve, Tony and Sam waited by the tinted window SUV as Bucky escorted Maddie and Izzy to their dorm room.

Maddie thanked him for coming when they did. Things could’ve really gotten out of hand.

“I’ve had an eventful night dad. Think I’ll shower and go to sleep. Uh, I appreciate you guys showing up. Please give me a chance to prove to you I’m responsible.”

Kissing the top of her head Bucky replied, “It won’t be easy, but I’ll try. I love ya so much baby girl.”

Giving Bucky a huge hug, “I love you so much Daddy Buckwoo. You’re the best.”

Two lessons were learned from this:

First, NEVER lie to your parents; especially if they’re a former master assassin with  endless tracking resources. Communication is key!

Finally, trust your daughter to be responsible. Bucky raised a young lady with high moral values. Your baby bird has left the nest. Allow her to fly!

TAGS: @omalleysgirl22 @pegasusdragontiger @jezzula @bolon-tiku @barnesvogue @sebstanfanma @goodnightwife @love2rhyme @3brosangel@supersoldierslover @sgtjamesbuchananbarnes107th @writing-is-my-elixir-of-life @buckybabybaby @marvelous-imagining 

#bucky barnes #bucky x reader #bucky imagine #daddy bucky #izzy #maddie #zach #pool party #busted