I was thinking about all the Snow White discourse and I was wondering... Is it really useful in any way to try to argue with racists as to why Rachel, even though she’s very light-skinned and of European descent, has every right to play Snow White? Because when you really think about it, the story of Snow White very much has a physical description of the main character. And even though in the oldest versions of the fairytale, it’s unclear which feature is as white as snow (could be her hair), in most interpretations, it’s her skin. I think that when it comes to representation of brown-skinned people, it would probably be best to leave this fairytale behind.

It has been nothing but detrimental to all of us because of the way it upheld colonial beauty standards in our minds because of its glorification of fair skin. I know that there could be versions of this story where Snow White could be a dark-skinned girl with hair as white as snow, and I would love to see that, but I think it will ultimately never be enough and that we deserve to have new stories with new characters where brown skin (all shades) is celebrated and seen as beautiful.

I will still go see this movie and I will always support the casting of Rachel Zegler but I think that we also deserve better than having to argue with racists over a fictional character (even though even when we have original characters that are explicitly Black or Brown they’ll still claim these characters are white because they simply cannot fathom the idea that something doesn’t center whiteness *cough* Rue from the Hunger Games series *cough*) . Like, The Little Mermaid is worth defending because Ariel is a fish so her skin color literally doesn’t matter, but for Snow White it’s different because sure, it’s her beauty and not her skin tone that is at center of the story, but people ultimately won’t accept that. Her name is Snow White and in most interpretations, she is named that because of her skin tone. Many people that were okay with the casting of Halle as Ariel keep thinking that a white actress should have been cast. This is of course not to say that they’re right because why couldn’t Snow White be dark brown-skinned and even have both brown skin and black hair and be named that for other reason than her physical appearance? All I’m saying is, for this specific case, we deserve better. And Rachel deserves better. Especially considering what the production is doing with the movie, which is really not doing her any favor. She deserves to not to have to deal with racists and to be supported by the production team of a movie she stars in (because let’s be honest, those costumes look horrendous).

Is it just me or are you just talking yourself in circles? Honestly I'm just gonna ignore Snow White (as in if I end up seeing it in theaters its because my mom wants to go). Like just don't engage with the discourse if you think its not really progressive. Honestly at this point I'm just upset that its not actually casting a Black girl with white hair. I'm certainly not gonna go out of my way to try to convince racists that its not progressive after all because Zegler really could pass for white. They've decided to call her a woc so whatever.

mod ali

Top Manga With Reverse Harem

The common name for reverse harem or also known as male harem is the gender-reversed version the traditional harem genre. Instead of seeing a number of female characters focusing on one male character in a normal situation, a reverse harem shows several male characters around a single female character. Except for the fact that the characters' genders are swapped, most details are the same. The majority of the changes refer to the behavior differences between males and females in the characters' ages. Due to the most relevant characteristics of the trope, reverse harem authors often choose bishounen looks. Reverse harem does not cover harems involving homosexual relationships, though they are an exception to the harem genre. Top 25+ Manga With Reverse Harem https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6l6PKEozwg My Top 20 Reverse-harem Manhwa/Manhua List Recommendations 1. An Otome's Bad End Chapters:26+ I was reincarnated as the otome player I had previously played. Ophelia, a beautiful female protagonist who resembles a goddess, is adored by many nobles, whereas Emilia, the character I reincarnated as, plays a supporting role as a villain, following around the male leads after Ophelia’s death, only to be destroyed by them. The default name Elodi is the player who appears to be Ophelia a few years after Ophelia dies from an incurable condition. The male love targets, who are heartbroken over Ophelia’s death, become obsessed with Elodi. I decided to give up this plot after I was reincarnated as Emilia in the storey. So, on the day of Ophelia’s funeral, I decided to quietly leave the place where I had lived for ten years. They were surprised that she was leaving. 2. I got into a reverse harem game! Chapters:69+ I awoke in an unfamiliar room with not one but two lovers! I’m Elvia, the Imperial Princess, and there are a slew of men vying for my favour in this game of love, affection, and deception. Isn’t that fantastic? Except that this means I’m stuck as the villain, with my manipulative maid, Arielle, as the main character! She’s out to bring me down, and she has plans for my men’s harem. I am able to see all her player notifications so I know her secrets. Is it possible to beat her in her own game? 3. Villains are destined to die Chapters:85+ I’m completely sucked into this game! It’s as if it’s taken over my life… wait—HARD MODE IS ON. No-no-no-no-no! It literally has thrown me into Penelope Eckhart's role. As the heroine, it’s easy to fall in love, but as the despised villainess, I’m fighting hard not to die… My brothers… the prince… a fork… every possible outcome is death! This world is stacked against me, but can my wits and insider game knowledge win these male characters’ affection? You could also try the reset button. 4. The strongest characters in the world are obsessed with me Chapters:36+ Dalia Pesteros was 13 years old when she suddenly recalled her past life as she was eating bread for breakfast. This is an impoverished otome game world where the main characters go insane, and she was born as the future villain’s sister! There is no way out at this pace. The entire family will disappear and I will also be gone. It doesn't matter what happens, I need to leave this family as soon and as possible. ‘Now that it’s like this, I need to let down my guard and flee.’ To avoid relatives who are only interested in the family and the sly emperor, it is preferable to be well-liked by my brother- “I want to dance with Dalia.” “What’s the issue?” “I apologise, but my sister is shy.” “Dalia stated that I was her favourite!” Not only have I tamed my brother, but all of the strongest characters in this world are obsessed with me!   5. An unseemly lady In the reverse harem novel, I was the younger sister to the female protagonist. After being very sick, I was extraordinarily pampered and spoiled by the female protagonist. I used that to defeat the original inexcusable tr*sh male leads who only hurt my sister… "Lili! How are you?" Do you like cakes? "Lili looks just like her sister. Won’t you eat cookies? Please tell your sister that you were gifted these cookies by your amazing brother. "Would it be possible to have this meal and stay for a while?" I have some words for your uncle, and sister." The male lead candidates seem eager to see me, for some reason... “I don’t play with ugly kids,” the boy in front of me muttered with a deep frown. What? What? I’ll show you what the real world is like. I gently pulled the hem of my sister’s clothes and shook my head: “I hate him, so I hate the older brother who brought him.” At the same time, Cedric’s face turned pale, similar to someone who had been sentenced to death. An unseemly lady is currently publishing . It is also Known as: The Little Lady Behind the Scenes, 幕后掌权者小姐, 秘密控权的千金 6. Namjuneun Jeongjunghi Sayanghagessseubnida! A young girl becomes obsessed with a novel and suddenly finds herself immersed in the plot. Problem is she's now the villain of the story. And she knows how this ends…it’s off with her head! Maybe she’ll just let this play out and wake up back in reality… But after a few too many deaths to no avail, it’s finally time to go off-script. This tale will be a lot of fun for her. She’s made up her mind…to live! I'm No Heroine! is currently publishing . It's also known as: I Will Politely Decline The Male Lead 7. Fruits Basket Tohru is a freshman at high school who is experiencing serious misfortune. She was recently left orphaned by the death of her mother and now lives in a tent. She meets the Sohma family when her luck is at its worst and is invited to stay with them for the chores. Tohru quickly discovers that the Sohmas harbor a deep secret. Some of the children of the Sohma clan are cursed by the Chinese Zodiac spirits, and they possess some of their children. They cannot be "huggled," or transformed into the Zodiac animal they are possessed by. Tohru promises to keep their secrets secret, and this doesn't bother her. They continue to live with her, and she never loses her profound humility and gratefulness. They become very important in her life and the Sohmas realize how fortunate they are to have her. Fruit Basket is finished and has 23 Volumes and 136 Chapters. It is also Known as: フルーツバスケット, Furuba 8. Sweetheart V5 is the Boss Who Is Too Kind! Jing Yiren, a talented and proud 14-year old princess, was very proud. She was transmigrated one night and became the President of the Lu Conglomeration's 19-year-old daughter. She would be tested to the limit by this sudden change! Lu Ming, on the other hand, now has to deal a wife who is completely confused by her new life situation. Faced with such difficulties, he can only communicate his feelings to her by his actions Sweetheart V5 is the Boss Who Is Too Kind! is currently publishing . 9. Beorimbadeun Wangnyeoui Eunmilhan Chimsil Princess Llewelyn was once a shining princess, but she is now miserable and abandoned. With no one to defend her, a horrible curse has been placed on her. It is a curse that makes her lust after men. Llewelyn opened her bedroom to end her curse. Four men get entangled in the abducted princess. Will the curse finally be exposed? Who will find the solution for her? Beorimbadeun Wangnyeoui Eunmilhan Chimsil is currently publishing . It is also Known as: The Abandoned Princess' Secret Bedroom, The Abandoned Princess’ Secret Room, The Secret Bedroom of the Forsaken Princess 10. Warrior, Wake up The five legends heroes appeared one day in my front yard. The antidote I found in my front yard worked without me even thinking! Really? I hate saving lives, but I’ve lost the will to say no. ‘Let’s just treat them as soon as possible and let them go. ’However, the atmosphere that surrounded the warriors was very strange. “Ms. "Ms. ” “Why don’t you warm up? The most important thing is your body.” “Why are you hiding so many secrets, Kacana?” “Do you like my scent that much?” “I’m a bit of a freak in bed.” ‘I’m not accidentally leading them on, am I? Warrior, Wake up is currently publishing . It's also known as Wake up, Hero 11. Men of the Harem Latil is snubbed by her lover, and her father's mysterious assassination puts her in power. She must marry him to protect her Tarium sovereignty. Instead of selecting one man to be her Royal Consort she selects five young men from all walks to join her Harem. Will Latil ever solve her father’s murder, and can she keep the peace in her Harem? Men of the Harem is currently publishing . It is also Known as: Men's Harem, Haremui Namjadeul, Men in the Harem, 女皇的後宮們 12. Watashi ga Motete Dousunda Kae Serinuma is second year high school student and an avid fujoshi. She secretly ships her Nanashima and Igarashima-kun classmates. The death of her favorite anime character causes her to become stressed—and loses weight rapidly. How will Serinuma deal with her peers, her snarky Shinomiya-kun and her senpai Mutsumi now that Serinuma is an attractive girl?! Kiss Him, Not Me is finished and has 14 Volumes and 60 Chapters. It is also Known as: 私がモテてどうすんだ, Boys, Please Kiss Him Instead of Me, What will you do if I become popular? 13. Beauty and the Beasts After she fell into a world of beastmen, a leopard forcefully took her home to his family. Bai Jingjing is truly at a total and utter loss. This world is filled with handsome men, but the women are so horrible that even the gods are afraid to see them. Bai Jingjing is a young girl from modern China who finds herself in the middle of a harem of handsome men, at the peak of her existence. Beauty and the Beasts is currently publishing . 14. Chuanshuo Zhong De Eyi Gongzhu He burned me to death after I had dedicated eight years of my life to his rule. My last wish was to be reborn in order to change my fate and not repeat the stupid mistake. However… I was reborn into the body of my sworn enemy?! My revenge plan is progressing smoothly until a prince suddenly appears and proposes marriage. He doesn't know that I have already had 4 imperial concubines. Source: MU The Legendary Villain Princess is currently publishing . It is also known as: La Legendaria Princesa Villana 15. I Am The Male-Lead’s Ex-Girlfriend In a harem novel, I play the role of villainess. My role as Erika is to be an evil exgirlfriend. I didn't want to be a dumb villainess so I split up with the male-lead first. Leo finally came back to me after three years. "I couldn't live with out you. You're still my favorite But, I don't think I should be obsessed with you I was also introduced to the second leads. "I like when you're near me ..." But why are so many men confessing to my existence? Which man should I choose? I Am The Male-Lead’s Ex-Girlfriend is currently publishing . 16. Rosen Blood: Haitoku no Meikan Rescued from a horrendous carriage accident, Stella becomes imperiled by her saviors—a group of impossibly gorgeous young men who thirst for her blood. Stella Violetta is injured in a tragic carriage accident. She wakes up in a Gothic mansion and discovers that her saviors, handsome young men, are there. The manor’s residents let her stay as a maid, but Stella soon realizes that their allure hides a savage thirst. Desperate for Stella’s affection, Yoel stabs Levi, who reconsiders his desire to protect the other nonhumans. Stella searches through Rosémary’s notes to find a way to awaken Yoel after the incident and uncovers clues about why Levi’s been shedding tears of blood. Are any of Rosémary's “children” really capable of love? Rosen Blood is currently publishing . It is also Known as: Rosen Blood ～背徳の冥館～, Rosen Blood: Haitoku no Meikan 17. The Ex Love is a war. An unattractive girl was cheated by her boyfriend and received a mysterious call. Strangely, the other person on the line claimed that she was 35 years old and that she is her from the future. To change her, she plans to teach her the law and practice of love. She wants her to see her beauty and take revenge against her ex-husband. The Ex is currently publishing . 18. Jijo nanoni... Seiken wo Nuite Shimatta! The handsome prince was there when I took out the holy sword.! Eleanor is a maid at the royal castle. She pulls out a holy sword of the legendary goddess from her job and gives it to the hero who protects the nation from the demon-king. The sword was impossible to find for thousands of years. But, this peaceful age does not need heroes to succeed. You will lose your job if you become a hero! I am going to assume that I didn’t gently place the holy sword back. However, I was found by an unfriendly prince... I'm a Lady’s Maid, but I've pulled out the Holy Sword! is currently publishing . It is also Known as: 侍女なのに…聖剣を抜いてしまった!, I'm a Lady's Maid I've Pulled Out the Holy Sword!, I'm a maid, but I pulled out the holy sword! 19. Inso's Law “I just want to live a normal life, why is this happening to me!” Your average student Ham Dan, whose hobby was reading “Law of Insomnia” wakes up to a beautiful novel like heroine. She is the same role even in fantasy novels. As the childhood friend of her heroine, her ordinary life is disrupted by her strong personality. My Life as an Internet Novel is currently publishing . It is also Known as: Net Shousetsu no Housoku, ネット小説の法則, La Ley Del Inso, Les Lois de la Web-romance, Net Shousetsu no Housoku, The Law of Webnovels, Võng Lạc Tiểu Thuyết Đích Pháp Tắc 20. Ouran Koukou Hostclub Haruhi is a bright, intelligent girl. She was born in poverty and got into Ouran High School through talent. She is mistakenly invited to the club's meeting room and accidentally breaks a vase. Haruhi, realistic and sarcastic is not used to being with crazy people like the princely Tamaki. Haruhi was mistaken for being a boy when she thought the club was for girls. This book contains chapters from the story "Romantic Egoist", which appears in several volumes. It stars a pair of twins, who play matchmaker against their teachers, classmates, and the like. Notice: The bonus chapter in the final volume features group travels to Spain. Ouran High School Host club is finished and has 18 Volumes and 87 Chapters. It is also Known as: 桜蘭高校ホスト部, OHSHC, Romantic Egoist 21. Otome Game no Hametsu Flag shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou ni Tensei shiteshimatta... After being hit by a rock on my head, I was able to recall all of my past memories. Katarina Claes (the eight-year old daughter of a duke) is me. In a feverish nightmare, in which the prince’s fiancee was determined, I have realized that this is the otome game from the previous life. Also, I have turned into the villainess that interfered with the romance of the capture targets… If the heroine got a happy end, I would be exiled, while if she got a bad end, I would be killed by the capture target… I have no happy end!? Is it bad? I can avoid the destruction end and still reach my old age peacefully.! I Reincarnated into an Otome Game as a Villainess With Only Destruction Flags… is currently publishing . It is also Known as: 乙女ゲームの破滅フラグしかない悪役令嬢に転生してしまった…, Destruction Flag Noble Girl Villainess, Destruction Flag Otome, I Reincarnated into an Otome Game as a Villainess With Only Destruction Flags… 22. The Villainess Loves I’ve transmigrated into the body of the terminally ill, villainous princess of a novel. It’s okay, though, I can cure this illness and live a life where I can do whatever I want! First, I would love to meet my favorite characters from the book in person. But, because I am a villainess, people around me tend to be wary… “You will die soon, and yet… how can you laugh like that?” Well, it’s ‘cus I’m super hot. The Villainess Loves is currently publishing . It is also known as "When the Evil Girl Loves". 23. The Bride of a Monster Ohae Na is dirt poor and my father is an irresponsible jackass. To make matters worse, different men are coming up to me asking to be their wife–wait what?! But, it turns out that they are holding a great secret… What are they exactly? The Bride of a Monster is currently publishing . It's also known as: Bride of a Monster (Monster Bride), Bride's Monster Read the full article

Title: Hibiscus Kisses {1}

Chris Evans x OFC Ajali Rambaue AU {Ah-Jah-Lee, Ram-Bow}

Warning: Plot Heavy, Cursing, 

Words: 6.1k

Summary: Ajali decides on a rash decision to go on a Disney cruise, not for her love of Disney, but because she needs time to figure things out after things get even more complicated in her complicated life. She only expected peace, quiet, tropical drinks, and an overabundance of Disney songs. What she got was more than she bargained for when the cruise of a lifetime on the brand new ship Enchantment turned into a nightmare. The only saving grace is that she’s not the only one living through the nightmare. Can Ajali survive the test of a lifetime and the dangers ahead of her, and better yet, will she finally be able to live a little?

Note: Hey, hey, hey, guys! So here we are trying something different/new. I hope you enjoy this. 🤞🏽 Please feel free to tell me what you think. I’m super excited to explore this one with you all. 🤗 Also, what do you guys think of the title? What does it make you think of?

As always, thank you so much for reading! If you enjoyed this, please LIKE, COMMENT, REBLOG! ❤️❤️

I appreciate each and every one of your guys’ support and love!

***Loosely Edited/Proofread***

**Very Interactive**

***French Language Incorporated w/translations according to Google***

“Yes, mom, I packed my charger and my vitamins. Oh my god, of course, I have my scarf. Mom!”

 Your mother continued to press you about things any woman would never forget packing. This was how she was normally. Almost morning, she would make her routine calls. First to your sister Atali, then to you. When she made it to you, she’d ask if you ate, and of course, by the time she called you, you were usually at work or on your way to it, and you wouldn’t have eaten. Then she’d ask you why you hadn’t eaten, to which she’d go back and forth with you about the importance of eating a well-balanced meal. Somehow that would lead to her asking how you expected to find the one when you didn’t eat enough. It was a never-ending thing with her. She was obsessed with you and your sister finding the one.

You understood. Your parents had been married for well over two decades, and they were still disgustingly in love. There was also no one like your dad, so you understood. They both saw what a catch they both were. After she told you the story of how she finessed your dad and got married in record time, it always turned into focus on you finding someone to marry. No matter how many times you told her that even though marriage was great and all, you weren’t in any hurry, it never registered.

 “Mom, I have everything I need. It is just supposed to be a two-week cruise.”

 “You’d be surprised the things you realize you left once you’re at sea. Then it will be too late,” Cynthia, your mother warned.

 “Then I’ll just buy it. Mom, I’m not going to the middle of nowhere. I am going on a huge ship from one of the world’s most reputable companies. I am positive they have every possible thing I could want to buy onboard. Plus, when we dock at ports, I’ll be able to buy much more.”

 “You’re always buying. Gah, I blame your father. He spoiled you and your sister rotten.”

 “I am not spoiled. It’s not like I haven’t worked for my money. Yes, daddy helped me set up my company, but I got where I am today because of me,” you professed.

 “I know, sweetheart, you don’t have to preach to the choir. All I’m saying is your daddy’s wealth only helped spoil you and Lali more. I saw it in you at the playground the most. You always wanted what the other kids were playing with. If it was a ball, you tried to take it. If it were the swings, you’d overtake it, toys in the sandbox my goodness those kids would end up with sand in their eyes and you alone with the toys.”

 “Some would call that persistence, hardworking, and assertive.”

 Your mother laughed then tsked.

 “I’m surprised that when you were in high school, I never got a call about you getting into a fight because you stole some girl’s boyfriend.”

 You pursed your lips, but as you were going to open your mouth to respond, your phone vibrated, signaling a notification.

 “Hang on, mom.”

 You thanked the Lyft driver for helping with your bags then checked your phone.

 MSG Javii: I’ve been calling you all night. Come on, Chaton (kitten). You have to talk to me at some point. Tu me manques (I miss you).

 You sighed and rolled your eyes. He had some nerve, you thought.

 “Ajali, hello!”

 “Yes, mom, I’m here. Sorry. I was getting my bags together.”

 “So, you’re really doing this?”

 “Yes, mom. Why wouldn’t I?”

 “Who goes on a cruise alone? What about the man I heard in the background of our call a few weeks ago? Why not go with him?”

 You rolled your eyes again, thinking about that man in the background a few weeks ago who was on your shit list.

 “I don’t know what you’re talking about. It was the tv,” you lied.

 “Ajali--,” your mother began before you cut her off.

 “—Plus, mom, it’s a Disney cruise,” you stressed.

 “Exactly. The people who go on Disney cruises are families, wives, husbands, kids. You are neither of them and have nether of them.”

 You balanced your phone on your shoulder and rolled your luggage toward the designated pier.

 “I just need some time to myself to clear my head and destress. Two weeks.”

 “Ignore your mother, my petal. You take the time you need. I’ve told you, and your sister working is important, but living is just as important. You don’t live to work; you work to live,” your father said.

 “Thank you, daddy.”

 “Plus, maybe you will find a worthy man on this cruise while you’re living,” your father slid in.

 “Oh god, not you too, daddy.”

 “We are unified in this, Lulu. He may wear the pants, but I control the buttons and the zipper if you know what I mean.”

 You tasted vomit in your mouth.

 “Eck! That is disgusting, mother. On that note, I gotta go.”

 “Wait, wait, enjoy yourself, my petal. We love you.”

 “Love you too, daddy, love you, mom.”

 With that, you ended the call and continued to walk toward Pier eighty-one. You passed families with rowdy children who looked like they couldn’t wait to get ice cream wasted, couples who looked as if they couldn’t wait to get to their suites and even elderly couples who were dressed to the nines for vacation, including already applied sunscreen and sunhats. Despite what your mother thought, Disney cruises were for everyone.

 You’d purposely chosen Disney because you didn’t want to be around other couples who were loved up and nauseatingly adorable, spewing love in the air. You wanted to be as far from that as possible. Love was the last thing on your mind. You were going on this cruise to get away from it. Your phone vibrated and went off twice.

 MSG Atali: Have you made your getaway yet?

 You stopped rolling and went to reply.

 MSG: Almost. I’m walking to the boarding line now.

MSG Atali: I think you’re doing the right thing. Space and time. In two weeks you’ll know what you want to do. I hope it’s what we talked about.

MSG: I know, Lali, I know.

MSG Atali: Have some fun too. It’s Disney.

 You could picture her face as you read it. She was probably cheesing at this very minute.

 MSG: Thank you for looking after the company while I’m gone.

MSG Atali: Boo, you know it’s my company too, right. Don’t worry; our clients will be taken care of. I’ve got it covered.

 You knew she did. Atali was the older one and had always acted like it, even though she was only nine months older. You knew she could take care of things on her own while you were away.

 MSG: I know, still. Thank you.

MSG Atali: You’re welcome, Lulu. Call me later. Margaret Bailey’s appointment is next. Apparently, she’s throwing some party, and she wants to be the envy of everyone.

MSG: Eck, you have your work cut out for you. Bye.

 As you were putting your phone away, another message came in.

 MSG Javii: Chaton (kitten), call me, please. Don’t you think you’re dragging this out a little?

 You almost said, “are you stupid” out loud. The man had some nerve. Dragging it out? You rolled your eyes as another message came in.

 MSG Javii: Je t’aime (I love you).

 Just like that, you melted. He was playing on the fact that your father was French, and the language itself was a favorite of yours. He was not a stupid man; he was a smart businessman.

 MSG Javii: I’m sorry. I know we’ve talked about it, but you have to give me more time. Please.

Unbelievable, you thought as you exited your messages and stuck your phone into your back pocket. You turned and ran smack dab into someone’s hard body.

 “Shit. I’m so sorry,” you rushed out even as you were falling back.

 A pair of strong arms grabbed you and firmly held you, preventing your fall.

“It’s okay, you’re lucky I don’t mind beautiful women bumping into me,” a deep masculine voice said. You knew it was a man, but you couldn’t see his face even though he looked to be well over six feet. His head was dipped low, and the hat he wore over hair that fell to his neck was so low you couldn’t see anything but the full beard that showed off a chiseled jawline.

 He set you right side up and slowly brought his hands from your arms back to his side. “Stay safe out there,” he said before he walked off.

 You stood there for a few moments, then looked back to where he’d walked and watched him saunter away. He had a slight dip to the way he walked that could either be seen as a happy go lucky type of thing or something that said he had some sort of swagger. Before you stared any longer, you sprang into motion with wheeling your luggage to the growing line to board the ship. Thankfully the line went quickly thanks to the ten different lanes that had ship staffers ready and eager to help guests.

 When it was your turn, a friendly-looking woman with a trendy bob cut explained what to do. While she talked, her smile never fell, but you didn’t really pay attention because her uniform was so distracting. She had on a purple and green hat that had mermaid scales and Ariel printed all over it. This hat matched the shirt and skirt combo she wore. Her shirt was two-toned, on one side was Ariel’s face, and on the other was mermaid scales while her skirt was plain white. It looked like The Little Mermaid threw up all over her. You didn’t expect anything else; it was a Disney cruise after all.

 After doing all the check-in steps, such as handing off your rolling luggage to the ship porters and taking a photo for your provided identification wrist band that the crew will use to identify you and your indicated needs, you boarded the ship. All the friendly faces you passed all looked happy to welcome you to Disney Cruises and to direct you to where you wanted to go. The noise inside was much louder inside than it was out. The kids that looked excited outside looked downright jubilant inside as they posed for pictures with life-sized Disney characters and got welcome ice cream treats.

 You were even tempted to take a picture or two, but you decided against it. What you did not decide against was ice cream. You took an offered vanilla cone and kept on your way, looking around the ship as the other guests did. From your research, this was the best-rated cruise this year. It was a newer Disney ship and one that cost over ten million dollars to design and build. Everyone said it was the Rolls Royce of Disney cruises.

From what you saw with the décor looked to have cost a fortune. There was glass, fancy lights, and marble everywhere. It was clear they didn’t skimp on funding and clear that they had the comfort and luxury in mind. There were plants around the central atrium that gave off that tropical vacation vibe and even paintings and pictures hanging on the walls that further pushed the agenda that this was supposed to be a fun time for all.

 The more you walked around looking at different areas, the more you were impressed. If the gathering areas looked this upscale, you were even more excited to see your suite.

 “Can I help you with anything, ma’am?”

 You shook your head and smiled at the man wearing Hans all over him. “I’m all right, thank you.”

 The next thirty minutes or so were spent walking around while following the map in your hand. You found and noted where the spa, library, on-ship garden, movie theater, bowling alley, tropical setting wave pool, and best restaurants and bars were. You had every intention of soaking up all the luxury that you’d paid top dollar for. When you saw a few amenities that you hadn’t expected, your jaw dropped. You had no idea why there was an ice skating rink or an indoor sky flying dome that had the tallest clear tube you’d ever seen. You didn’t know who’d designed this cruise, but you knew it must have cost millions. You were sure you wouldn’t be getting in that sky flying dome.

 When you finally got the alert that your suite was ready, it was well after one in the afternoon. The walk among the crowds was noisy. Everyone was either talking about what they wanted to do first, how enormous and beautiful the ship was, or making a plan for the cruise duration. In between all the chatter, there of course, were the screams and cries of babies and toddlers who were already losing their shit.

 This is what you’d expected when you decided on this Disney cruise over another like Carnival or Norwegian. You knew that the other passengers would be of a specific age range leaning on the younger and family-oriented side, which meant you wouldn’t have to fight off unwanted suitors who tried to shoot their shot. It also meant that you wouldn’t have to deal with any sort of drama that usually happened on a cruise with young adults all looking to hook up. That was not what you needed right now. You wanted to stay as far away from hooking up or eligible men that had blue eyes or a perfect head of hair, or abs that were chiseled by Michelangelo himself, or an ass that would make a mannequin jealous.

 On the elevator ride to your floor, you caught the eye of an adorable little boy with a complete head of luscious dark locks and doe eyes with an unmeasurable depth. His smile was innocent. Every time your eyes met his, he hid behind his mother. When you looked away, he looked back at you. After two or three playful back and forth glances, which had him becoming more adorable, you surprised him by not looking away. When he realized it, his squeal was so childlike and filled with so much glee that everyone on the elevator had to giggle. Over the next several minutes, the passengers on the elevator got off group by group until it was just a few people remaining.

 “Sixth floor,” the elevator attendant announced.

 You made your way through the door but gave the adorable boy a look. “Have a fun cruise, cutie,” you said with a wink before the doors closed with the sound of his giggles. You looked at your phone to remind yourself which room was yours, then glanced at the numbers on the wall that directed you where to go. The dinging sound of an elevator brought your attention down the hall to your right to see one man walk off. His hat was dipped down low, but you noticed his face was buried in his phone before he turned and walked in the opposite direction of you.

 Focusing on the signs on the door, you walked down the left side of the aisle. It didn’t take you long to realize your room was at the end of the hall. Once you reached it, you glanced back to see the same man with his tipped low hat. It looked like the same man from before outside the ship. It couldn’t be, you thought. The odds were not that small. As you opened your door, you saw him disappear into the room at the opposite end of the hall.

 Once you walked inside, you immediately thought that this was what you got when you had Atali handle the arrangements. The theme of the room was clearly sky blue. The couch in the living area was a satin, silky sky blue that looked as if it was plush and comfortable. It matched the blue and grain colored carpet before it perfectly, and the abstract blown glass art on the wall. The colors all worked together to give you a sense of peace. It wouldn't have been something you’d chosen because, unlike Atali, you liked to keep things as low maintenance as possible. Just because your family had money doesn’t mean you had to look or behave as if you did.

 When you walked into the bedroom portion of the stateroom, you saw your suitcases waiting for you in the far left corner of the room. The sunlight pouring in from the screened balcony bathed the room in a beautiful, cheerful yellow that was so inviting that once you kicked off your shoes, you had to step out into it. The temperature was not blazing hot because it was just the middle of April in New York, and that meant a mix of chilly and warm days with the occasional possible snow shower. The salty air of the sea was one of your favorite smells. You remembered when your father took your family to France on your yearly family vacation. As a child, you loved the beach and the salt of the sea. When you became an adult, nothing had changed.

 Not realizing how long you remained on the balcony, an intercom announcement came on.

 “Attention passengers, this is Lucas Albright, one of your captains. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you aboard this Disney Enchantment Cruise.”

 He paused, and you could hear the uproar of cheers and claps from over the intercom as well as in the halls and neighboring staterooms.

 “We are all excited to host you on this two and a half week christening journey from New York. I say christening because you lot are the first to travel on this brand new ship. This is her maiden voyage.”

 More cheers and applause came for what felt like forever.

 “We will be on this beautiful vessel for two days, at which time we dock in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic at approximately eleven o’clock in the morning, where you can enjoy plenty of the excursions and activities for the day.”

 Again applause followed. Everyone was undoubtedly excited about this cruise. You tried to get out of your funk and onboard the excitement train.

 “We will then set sail again, leaving port at ten o’clock that evening and moving on to two days at sea until we reach our second destination of Port of Grand Turk in beautiful Turks & Caicos. At that time, we dock at eleven 0’clock and lift anchors at ten o’clock. From the beautiful Turks & Caicos, we will be at sea for two days until we reach the tropical breezes of the British Virgin Islands!”

 You were already making some mental plans for everything you wanted to do at each port.

 “After spending out eleven o’clock to ten o’clock time there. We set sail to the glorious white sandy beaches of—Arrrruuuba!”

 At that time, the classic Beach Boys song Kokomo came on at the Aruba part. It was so corny, but everyone seemed to love it. You shook your head as the short clip of the song played loudly until it was lowered to play in the background.

 “Again, we’re docking at eleven o’clock to set sail again at ten o’clock. We are then at sea for three more days until we get to Ocho Rios, Jamaaaaica!”

 As he spoke, you went around the room, placing things you’d need and freshening yourself up. When he finally finished giving the itinerary, you were situated and checking the schedule of events for the day. All in all, it was set to be an action packed seventeen days at sea. Atali must have chosen this length because she knew seven or ten days would not be enough time.

 “All right, ladies, gentlemen, kids, and big kids, I hope to see you all at the welcome mingle we’ve scheduled to begin within the next twenty minutes or so, at which time we will lift anchors and say sayonara to New York and aloha to the seven seas.”

 He had a voice for radio or a game show. It was velvety deep, just what many women seemed to like these days. You grabbed your phone and crossbody bag and walked out of your room. You had a mission before you lifted anchor. Everyone was still abuzz with talk of the itinerary as more of the beach boys played over the ship speaker system. Vacation vibes were in full effect. Once you got to the media area, you promptly purchased your airtime so your cell would be able to work while at sea. You knew your mother would have a heart attack if you went two days without checking in with her. You didn’t think it was because she was that attached to her children though, you knew it was her motherly duty to remain up in the tea, so she felt continuously connected. As she got older and older, you realized it more and more.

 As soon as that mission was completed, you made your way to the top deck where the mingle was being held. As you stepped out into the sun, you marveled at just how extravagant Disney had chosen to go with this ship. Several feet before you stretching obscenely high into the air, you saw something that looked like a rollercoaster. There were plenty of other passengers pointing to it and excitedly chattering about it. You made a mental note to stay as far away from it as possible. Who would think to ride an insanely high rollercoaster on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean?

 Slowly you walked around the deck, cordially smiling at those you passed. You passed a bar area and took one of the prepared cocktails, and proceeded to find a good spot at the side of the ship to watch them lift anchor. After several minutes of searching and bumping into all the excited kids and passengers who were posing for pictures with friends, family, and Disney staff, you found an excellent spot to press your back against.

 Across the way, a familiar hat caught your eye. It was him, you thought. He always kept his head low and tried to steer away from big crowds. It was strange to you considering he’d chosen to get on a cruise ship filled with hundreds of people. He wouldn’t be able to escape the crowds. Your eyes followed him as he walked to another bar to grab one of the drinks there. As he did, he joked with the bartender, and it was then you saw a flash of his pearly smile. You couldn’t tell if he was attractive or not, mostly since all you’d gotten were glimpses of pieces of his face. Part of you wanted him to take off the stupid hat so you could be sure, but the other part—the sensible part that remembered why you’d chosen a Disney cruise slapped your ass back into focus.

 “Welcome, Disney guests!”

 In response, everyone around you screamed, clapped, cheered, and stomped so loudly the sound could have rivaled that of a rave.

 “We are pleased to welcome you once again!”

 As one of the staff members continued to speak about the ship procedures, expectations, highlights, amenities, and more, you continued to look around the deck, taking in all the grandeur before you. It didn’t take long to get lost in the directory you held. Again you took note of where everything was that you wanted to experience and even went as far as to make a plan of what you wanted to eat each night. Between you and Atali, you were the planner. You liked things to make sense and liked them to be stable and constantly reliable. You hated the erraticness of people and impulsivity. You always tried to steer as far from it as possible.

 By the time the speeches were finished, you’d had three drinks and were working on your fourth. The vibration of your phone brought your attention to it.

 MSG Javii: Chaton?

 You rolled your eyes and sighed out a little louder than you intended. What attracted you to him in the first place was what was annoying you right now. His persistence. You sat in a nearby seat and stared at the text exchange and thought of what you wanted to reply. Five minutes passed with you not typing one word. The truth was you didn’t know what to say. You were that jumbled up. The stress of it all was making your head hurt. You rubbed your brow and began your message.

 MSG: I need some time away.

 Instantly a message came back.

 MSG Javii: From me?

 Bobbing your head from side to side, you tried to make a quick decision.

 MSG: From this—us.

 MSG Javii: Chaton, say what you mean. You know I prefer directness. Do you mean from me?

 MSG: Yes.

 A few minutes passed before he sent another message. You wondered if you’d hurt him. Part of you didn’t want to hurt him, but the other part wanted him to suffer and see what it was like to be without you. Maybe then he’d start appreciating what he had.

 MSG: I just need to figure some things out.

MSG Javii: Are you breaking up with me, Chaton?

 The name was killing you, and you were sure he knew it. Every time he called you “chaton,” it made your belly flutter.

 MSG: I just need time and space, Javii.

MSG Javii: I love you. You know that, right? I love you more than anything.

MSG: If that were true, I’d be there right now instead of where I am. I have to go.

 You closed your messages and sighed out again.

 “Mm, I can easily read that expression, and if any man causes brow or forehead wrinkles, he isn’t the one.”

 Your head snapped to your right to see an older woman sitting there. She wore a straw hat atop her long red hair that looked close to that of Lucille Ball’s. The hue of her hair complimented her bronze and gold complexion. Her makeup was expertly done, as was her purple painted nails that pinched the straw that was at the corner of her mouth, a mouth that was painted perfectly accentuating her cupid’s bow lips. She was gorgeous.

 “Uh--,” you began as she continued.

 “The only one who is worth it is the one who gives you cheek wrinkles and smile creases.”

You grinned to yourself and took a sip from your glass that was resting on the table between you.

 “Trust me. I’ve dated plenty of men, ones who cause both, ones who cause one more than the other and ones who only cause one—the bad ones.” She motioned to the space between her eyebrows, symbolizing stress wrinkles from furrowing your brows.

 “I have yet to meet one who only causes smile creases,” she finished.

 You shrugged and looked glanced back to your phone before you put it on the table face down.

 “Maybe that one doesn’t exist on this Earth,” you countered.

 “A skeptic, I see. You’re one of those women who don’t believe in the one, right?”

 After scoffing, you looked at her. “I don’t know what I believe. Once upon a time, I did then---things got complicated.”

 The woman placed her drink down and nudged her fist underneath her chin, giving you her complete attention.

 “Oh, complications are the joys of life, darling. Nothing is ever cut and dry or so simple and steady. I say go for the ride but make sure you hand on for the bumps.”

 You contemplated her words. There was some logic there, but once she said nothing was simple or steady, you had to admit your heart skipped a beat. You hated when things weren’t simple. You took your glass again and finished its contents. At the same time, your eye found the man who’d caught you maybe an hour ago. You watched as he walked closer to where you were seated and caught another glimpse of his face before he passed you.

 From beside you, you heard the woman whistle.

 “I wouldn’t mind going for a ride with that one.”

 Your laugh was loud and couldn’t be stopped. You shook your head at her, but she didn’t look one bit embarrassed or remorseful.

 “It’s a cruse darling, a vacation. Now’s the time to live a little—or a lot,” she said, finishing with an exaggerated wink.

 This woman was inadvertently suggesting you let your hoe flag fly for the duration of the cruise. She reminded you of your aunt Josephine from your father’s side. As a French woman, she definitely embodied the French lifestyle of only living once and to live life right the first time. You’d spent countless hours with her listening to her stories of her travels, boyfriends, escapades. You and Atali always loved to live vicariously through her. That was until Atali came of age and decided to live just like her.

 You sat with this woman who introduced herself as Genevieve and listened to her stories of life and love. Usually, you hated speaking to strangers, but she didn’t feel like one. She felt like a kindred spirit, a much more carefree spirit but still kindred the same. You didn’t realize that two hours had almost passed with the two of you sipping cocktails and giggling. When you said your goodbyes, you wandered around the ship, taking in all it had to offer. You peeked in on activities that were already underway and scoped out other places you could disappear in.

 You made it back to your room in time to shower, change, and put on a lite layer of makeup before you made it to dinner at one of the forty restaurants. Once you walked into the restaurant, the atmosphere screamed luxury though it was not opulently done. It still looked family-friendly, but it was done in a way that let you know that you were meant to feel important by the décor alone.

 At the bottom of the long stairs, you quickly looked around, trying to find an empty table. When you’d zeroed in on one, you saw a hand waving you down—the hand of the same woman from before, Genevieve. Why not, you thought to yourself before you began to cross the dining area toward her. Within a few steps, you ran right into a body that felt like a brick wall. You could feel your body falling backward, but in the nick of time, a pair of strong, muscular arms wrapped around your back, holding you in place.

If his face had been eluding you all day, it was not anymore. The eyes you stared into were blue enough that the sea you sailed would be envious. His lips were so red that an apple would want a rematch for bragging rights and his face so symmetrical that even the perfect line of symmetry didn’t seem perfect enough when next to him. The man was gorgeous. You watched his eyes roam your face as if he was in no rush, wanting to take in every detail. What felt like minutes was probably only seconds before he set you upright. As you were prepared to speak, he smiled, and the action had you feeling like you’d been hit in the head at the same time as your gut.

 “Twice in one day. What’re the odds? Are you okay?”

 Rather than speaking, you nodded.

 “Are you sure?”

 “Yes, thank you. I’m—I’m sorry,” you stuttered.

 “Nah, forget about it. No harm, no foul.”

 From behind him, you could see Genevie giving you a look that said she wanted to know what was being said and who he was.

 “I uh—I was going that way,” you said, nodding your head to behind him.

 “And me that way.” He nodded behind you. “Stay safe out there,” he uttered before he walked off in the direction you’d just come from, giving you the opportunity to walk to Genevieve.

 The look on her face needed no words to along with it, but she still spoke.

 “Is that the same snack from before?”

 You nodded and nearly snorted out, hearing her use the word.

 “What’s his name?”

 “No idea, but I feel like I’ve seen him somewhere before. I just—can’t place it.”

 “I don’t know how. I’d never forget a face like that.”

 She had a point; he had an unforgettable face, one that stayed with you and possibly could haunt your nights. You bet he got whatever he wanted and whoever he wanted. As dinner progressed, you had your choice of different appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts. If one wanted Scandinavian food, they could get it, or southern food it was within reach. As you ate, you listened to more of Genevieve’s stories. She told you about the men she’d dated, the things she’d seen in her years, and lessons she’d learned from those men. The moral you learned from her stories was love often, love hard, and love entirely because while you’d remember the pain, you’d remember the love more.

 As you ate and listened to her, you couldn’t help but think of the reason you were on this cruise in the first place. You were not running to love but from it. If you were to listen to Genevieve, you should have stayed your ass in New York and gone to Javii. If you listened to her, you’d probably spend another year living in sin. By the end of dinner, you’d met three other women all within the same age range as you, but they all were in different times of their lives. One was newlywed, and on her honeymoon, the second married a year and expecting her first child and the third long married with three children.

 It was an interesting look at alternate timelines for you. Any of them could have ended up being you if you’d only made different choices. Part of you wondered which one you wanted to be more, your natural self, or one of the three possibilities.

 After dinner, you made your way to one of the theaters to watch the planned show for the night. It was a re-enactment of The Little Mermaid, and the audience was filled with little ones who clapped and cheered throughout. You were surprised at how well the staff performed. They could have easily been true broadway stars. A little more than halfway through the show, you found the stranger with the deep eyes across the room. He was sitting alone, just watching the show with a relaxed look on his face. He looked as if he were genuinely enjoying it. Your curiosity was piqued as to why he was sitting alone watching The Little Mermaid on a ship full of people and why he didn’t seem to be bothered to make acquaintances. Who came on a cruise alone? Once you thought it, you wanted to laugh at yourself. You were the one to come on a cruise alone.

 As you were about to look away, his eyes found yours. At first, they looked empty as if he were looking right through you. Then after a few moments, there was a spark in them. You watched him raise his glass to you with a soft smile teasing his lips. Realizing you’d been caught looking, you curtly nodded back then looked to the stage to focus on the show.

 Two in the morning. That was the time when you finally made it back to your room. Festivities were going on all around the ship. No one seemed as if they wanted to go back to their rooms. There was something for everyone. The little ones had endless activities, including a sleepover with their favorite Disney characters, where they were set to have plenty of fun for the night. There was a mixer set up like a rave on the opposite side of the ship for the adults. From the things you saw when you scoped it out, you were sure a few siblings were going to be conceived tonight.

 As you scanned your bracelet and opened your door, you looked back to see the stranger again. He was looking directly down at you. You gave him a head salute and disappeared inside your room. After a quick shower, you found your way to your balcony to watch the waves roll by with a glass of wine. It was the perfect end to the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

***If you want to be tagged/untagged please SEND AN ASK SO IT WILL BE EASIER FOR ME TO KEEP TRACK OF. Thank you for reading!!!  

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A lover’s curse (Yandere thin male Ursula x female reader x Yandere male Morgana) Part 9

Tears fell down your face as Ursul kept rubbing your back. You couldn’t recall how many times he had raped you, proclaiming his love for you as he did so. 

Morgan was nowhere to be seen, you feared for the worse. Ursul must have done somethig to him, otherwise he would have been back by now.

“What are you thinking angel fish?” He asked in a low, seductive tone. Clearly he was getting aroused by seeing you cry, this sadistic freak wanted to destroy you, use the word ”love” as an excuse to rape and dominate you. And he had achieved part of this. 

“None of your buisness,leave me alone.”

Ursul hummed and his hands went straight to your abused center, dipping two fingers and as he toyed with your walls. His lips went to your neck as he began leaving gentle kisses over the hickeys he had created. You yelped and turned to hit him but one of his tentacles took hold of both of your arms.

“Now, now, my little angel fish. This isn’t how you ask someone to do something. I was willing to let you rest before taking you home... but maybe I shouldn’t be so lenient. Hmm?”

 You glared at him, wanting to tell him exactly where he could take his act as well as his whole existence and what to do with it. But then there was a loud splash as you turned to look at the water, smilling widely as you saw Morgan enter.

“Get away from her, Ursul!”

“Too little, too late. Her body has already become mine, her mind is soon to follow.”

Morgan glared at his brother, the two having a stare down as you layed there, suddenly an idea crossed your mind. You tried to squirm and as expected the grip of Ursul’s tentacle on your arms became stronger, causing you to yelp in pain, making the monster above you turn and look at you for a brief moment. It was enough for Morgan to jump out of the water and on his brother, pushing him away from you. 

Immediately after that, you stood up and ran over to the water, looking behind you for one brief second, seeing the two males fighting before swimming away, meeting Morgan’s rays, explaining the situation as quickly as possible what had happened and informing them that you were going back to the palace where Ursul wouldn’t be able to reach you and then you left.

You kept going, not looking back and without any breaks until you saw the city from afar. You continued until eventually, you made it to the castle. The guards let you pass, recognizing you in an instance and you went straight to your room.

Upon entering you left a sigh of relief, sitting on the bed and trying desperately to calm down. You convinced yourself that Morgan would survive, he was strong and he could fight his brother now. 

“Please Morgan... please be okay.”

A knock on the door, made you look over surprised. However as soon as you heard the voice of the prince, you relaxed immediately.

“(Name), it’s me.” 

“Come in, Ariel.”

The red head, entered the room, looking at you with a small smile, his cheerfull attitude slowly affecting you too.

“It’s been a while, where have you been?”

“Oh! I was with a friend, he had some confidence issues and I wanted to help him.”

“I see, I hope everything went well... also, thank you for helping me with... you know... that.”

You chuckled at Ariel’s blushing expression, it seemed like that human princess had completely taken over his mind and his heart. Well, not that you didn’t expect this to happen.

“Don’t mention it, I’m glad I could help.”

The two of you kept talking and at some point you completely forgot about Ursul and Morgan, enjoying the peace and warmth of Ariel’s kind nature and fiery spirit.

Meanwhile the two males had finally stopped fighting, with no clear winner but in their minds, they could totally beat each other if they got serious.

“I hope you’re ready to apologize for entering my home like that and raping (Name)!!!”

“She’s mine. I can do whatever I want to my angel fish... and seeing as you are still so weak and pathetic, I am curious as to why she seems to favor you so much.”

“Well, for starters, I didn’t force myself on anyone! I am letting her make her own deciscions and support her. You just want to break her and make her a slave!”

At that Ursul burst out laughing, it was clear that his brother didn’t have the guts to proclaim his love for you and as such he was stuck with the title of “good friend”. Not that it mattered anymore, now that Ursul had completely claimed your body, all that was left to do, was taking over your mind.

The idea of training you to be a sweet, obedient but strong little darling, made him hard. But he loved your fiery temper, your defiance and your spirit... both images had his blood boil with desire. 

Morgan on the other hand was simply thinking of how to get his arrogant, sadistic, brother leave his lair and never return. He needed a new lair, still here, in the cold waters but perhaps with more difficulty in detection.

“It seems I must go get my little angel fish from her hiding spot.” Ursul said, no longer caring that his brother was there, Morgan smirked, he knew where you must have gone but he also knew that only he, could get you to leave and return to him. But first, he needed to change locations.

Ursul left, already aware of where you probably went to hide, not that he could blame for this one. Two adult males fighting like that, you must have been scared to death. He decided to use your little friend, Ariel, seeing as that ridiculous romance the prince wanted to experience could become the key for him taking the throne from Triton.

Both males began prepairing for their own seperate schemes while you remained unaware of what was to follow. 

And that might have been for the best.

The New Heiress Chapter 2, Part 5

“Mr. and Mrs. Summerdream, thank you for agreeing to meet with me today.”

“There is something very important that I would like to discuss with you, and I am hoping for your favorable response.”

“As you know, Puck and I have been best friends for a long time, and that we eventually developed feelings for each other. To get straight to the point, I am asking for his hand in marriage.”

“I know that you don’t want him and your family to be involved in the feud, but there has been peace in this town for the last seven years, and that is all thanks to you, Mr. Summerdream. I will also do my best to help maintain that peace.”

“Most importantly, I do not see anyone else in my future other than Puck. I love him, I really do. I hope you can see that.”

“We do see that you two are very much in love, my dear. And personally, I no longer have any qualms with your association to the feud. My only concern is if you two are truly prepared. Marriage is no fairytale. Nevertheless, if you are sure and ready, you have my blessing. But it is nothing without Titania’s approval too. She is, after all, the head of this family.”

“Of course you have my blessing, Hermia. No need for formalities or tradition, but we do appreciate you coming to us first. The fact that you wanted to seek our approval already tells us how much you value this.”

“But as Oberon said, please make sure you are ready first. We understand that as heiress, you might feel pressured to get married, but the both of you are still very young. And you know Puck, he has a childlike heart.”

“You are right. I am actually not in a hurry to get married, in fact I am frightened, but I just wanted to ask for your approval as early as now, for reassurance. And now, knowing that I have your support, I can plan my future with less anxiety.”

“Of course, it will all still be up to you and Puck, whatever you decide. We just wanted to give you advice because we have seen so many couples who used to be so in love, to end up divorced, and we don’t want that to happen to you.”

“If you ever need marriage or parental advice, you can always come to us.”

“I need to go now. Thank you so much for your time.”

“It’s been a pleasure. We would be delighted to have you as part of our family, Hermia. I hope all goes well with the two of you.”

“Good morning, Daddy.”

“Good morning, sweetie. You’re up early today? It’s Sunday.”

“I made sure to get up while the others are still asleep because I want to talk to you alone.”

“What is it, my dear? Is it so serious that you don’t want your siblings to know?”

“About your wedding, Daddy. I don’t want to be a flower girl anymore.”

“Oh, who will be our flower girl, then? Is something the matter, Ariel? Are you upset about the wedding?”

“No, it’s not about you and Uncle Kent, it’s just... I don’t think I’m a girl.”

“Oh. So does that mean...?”

“I don’t think I’m a boy, either.”

“I don’t understand why there has to be things for boys and things for girls. I like things for both.”

“And it makes me uncomfortable to think about my... you know. We are learning sex education in biology class and our teacher taught us about how there are people who are not male or female, and that’s when I knew.”

“People might think I’m too young to be thinking and deciding about this, but I’m nearly a teenager, and I’m pretty sure this is who I am. So I guess instead of a flower girl, I can just be called... a flower... child?”

“Are you upset, Daddy?”

“Oh no, Ariel, no. I’m just... processing it. But I think I understand.”

“Thank you Daddy! It means so much to me that you understand and accept who I am.”

“Well, we didn’t learn about those things when I was a boy, and I didn’t even know I liked men too until I got older.”

“Of course I accept who you are, my love. And you will forever be my baby. Didn’t I tell you that you could be whoever you wanted to be?”

“I’m so lucky you’re my dad.”

“What kind of father would I be if I didn’t love you for who you are?”

“Do you think Mommy would have accepted it too?”

“Yes, I think she would.”

“Of course you’d be here again.”

“I wanted to be alone, there’s too much people inside.”

“So, are you ready to tell me your secret? Or should I tell Dad that you were lying about where you’ve been the other night?”

“What do you mean?”

“I called Fabian, and unfortunately for you, it was his mother who picked up the phone and said there was no sleepover at their house like you claimed. So just tell me where you’ve been. If you don’t, I will ask Bottom, because I know she’s in on your secret.”

“Look, brother dear. I know I’m annoying, and nosy, and whatever else you want to call me. But I’m your sister, and I worry about you. When we were little, you always looked out for me because I always got in trouble, didn’t you? And now it seems our roles have switched. Now I have to look out for you, because you’ve been acting really suspicious. Whatever it is you’re doing, I just have a gut feeling that there’s something wrong.”

“Okay, I will tell you. But you have to promise me that you will never tell anyone. Not Dad, not Nonno or Nonna, not anyone. Do you promise?”

“Why not? How serious is this, Ben?”

“It’s a matter of life and death. Now, do you promise?”

“Alright, I won’t tell anyone.”

“Good. Well, I do have a girlfriend.”

“Ooooh, I knew it. Is that it, then? You know you can just tell Nonno that you’re not interested in Olivia.”

“Listen. She’s not just any other girl. I met her at that party we snuck into when we were kids.”

“No... no way...”

“She’s a Capp.”

“Ben... what on earth?! I thought you were the obedient and dutiful twin... do you want to give Nonno a heart attack? Have you learned nothing from what happened with Romeo? And Mom? Dad will kill you!”

“Listen, Bea. I don’t want this feud to go on forever. Don’t you too? And she’s not that different from us, so why can’t I be with her, just because our grandpa had a falling out with her grandpa? None of that was her fault. She just happened to be a Capp, and we happened to be in love. That’s why I’m going to fight for her, and marry her eventually.”

“Oh, God. You’ve gone off the rails. This is all my fault. I never should’ve let you follow me to that party.”

“I still have a functioning brain, and I also have a functioning heart. Come on Bea, you should be on my side here. Don’t you want peace in this town once and for all? Our generation... we don’t deserve to get dragged into the mess our grandparents created.”

“Of course I want peace, but I don’t want to get disowned too. Do you have a plan, then?”

“Well, not yet entirely. But I know we will have Aunt Bianca’s support when we tell her.”

“Well, loverboy. If you don’t have Plan A perfectly mapped out yet, you better have a Plan B for if we get kicked out.”

“So you’re with me then? Thank you, Beatrice!”

“Well, what can I do? I know I can’t stop you. And you’d do the same for me. I guess we’re more alike than we thought, huh?”

Family Portrait part 1

Wilhemina Venable x Cordelia Goode + Myrtle Snow headcanon

A/N: Writing it wasn’t planned, but since I came up with it and worked on it with @misssmephisto​ I though it can’t go to waste. And given that Cordelia and Wilhemina keep saving my life, it can be considered as some kind of tribute to them.

Anyways, I saw some gifs and pictures and I can’t unsee them. So, Wilhemina and Myrtle are related and you can’t change my mind about it. 

Hope you enjoy it!

Myrtle Snow never talked about her family. Even Cordelia, who was like a daughter for her had no idea who Myrtle’s family was. It was no secret, though the older witch preferred not to talk about it. No wonder, since she and her younger sister hadn’t necessarily had a good relationship.

There were only the two of them and despite the fact that powers were, kind of, being handed down from generation to generation - Myrtle’s sister didn’t have them. She wasn’t a witch and that seemed to be cause for their conflict. The conflict that they had never resolved and it only got worse with time.

Myrtle had always been a mild-tempered, compassionate person, she never meant any harm to anyone - especially to the people she loved and cared about - unless they tried or did hurt her. Because then she was capable of anything. Yet for most of the time she was calm and did her best to support her sister. She never wanted to argue with the younger woman and if she could, she would most likely give her half of her power. Though it was impossible. No matter how much Myrtle wanted them to have a good relationship, her sister hated her and there was nothing she could do about it.

She was in her early twenties when she moved to New Orleans and started studying at Miss Robichaux's Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies. That was where she met Fiona Goode - the very first person, who had incredible ability to make Myrtle’s blood boil. At that time young Snow focused on herself - improving her abilities, getting better at controlling her powers and studying the history of the coven. She had no more time to worry about her sister’s insecurities. She still did think about her, but her sister didn’t even want to talk to her, so Myrtle gave up.

It was a few years later when Myrtle found out her sister was seeing someone. There wouldn’t be anything wrong with that, but the man her sister claimed to be in love with was a warlock. Myrtle may have still been young, but she already had a chance to get to know the warlocks better. And she knew very well that being around them didn’t mean any good. She obviously tried to convince her sister not to marry him, but the younger woman was stubborn. She wanted to prove that she could do whatever she wanted even though she wasn’t a witch, and so she married the warlock to spite her sister. Ever since then the two of them stopped talking completely.

Myrtle resided at New Orleans. She stayed at Miss Robichaux’s Academy and became the headmistress. She often found herself wanting to contact her sister, but she never did. After all her sister hated her and the possibility of it changing was really low. 

The redhead witch still hoped that one day she’d get to make up with her sister, but unfortunately that never happened, because Myrtle’s sister got sick and died. The woman died and orphaned her child. Myrtle didn’t get to know her niece, but she wanted and was ready to take care of the girl, though her brother-in-law didn’t even let her meet the child. And that’s when Myrtle lost her family for real.

It wasn’t easy, though luckily for Myrtle, who was pretty devastated, Cordelia appeared in her  life. Fiona had never been the best mother and she definitely didn’t have good relations with her daughter. That’s why Cordelia got so attached to Myrtle. She needed someone who would take care of her and Myrtle definitely did it better than Fiona. In fact she became Cordelia’s mother figure. She gave the young witch far more than Cordelia had expected. Myrtle treated Cordelia as if she was her own daughter. She taught her basically everything and gave all her love to the young witch.

Cordelia and the Coven were Myrtle’s new family. Her past became a closed book and she was sure she would never have to go back to it again. Though she was wrong.

Her past kept haunting her, no matter how hard she tried to avoid it. Things got really complicated when the warlock - her brother-in-law died too. Both Myrtle and Cordelia were supposed to attend the funeral.

Cordelia was convinced that attending the funeral was just a kind of formality for both of them, since she was the new Supreme and Myrtle was the Council member. Yet she could feel that her aunt was really nervous about it. She had no idea why, but didn’t want to pressure Myrtle into telling her.

The funeral took place at the Hawthorne School, where the late warlock had been teaching for years. At first nothing seemed suspicious, yet soon Cordelia’s attention was drawn by the redhead woman - the warlocks’ guest of honour. The Supreme couldn’t help, but noticed how the woman and Myrtle were really similar. And she got curious who the other woman was “Myrtle… she looks like you when you were her age” “basically identical”

As Ariel Augustus was giving his speech, Cordelia started with her questions. At first Myrtle tried to ignore her “you know what they say, petal? Curiosity killed the cat”.  But Cordelia was stubborn and determined to find out. “Myrtle, pleaseeee tell me!”

And the older witch gave in. Before Augustus was done, Myrtle managed to explain to Cordelia that she had a sister, who got married to the warlock and the woman, who looked just like her was their daughter. Cordelia was dumbfounded at first “You had a sister??? And you have a niece??? Why didn’t you tell me?”. The answer she got definitely wasn’t what she had expected, but suddenly everything started making sense.

The only family Cordelia had ever known consisted of two women - Myrtle and Fiona, because after Hank betrayed her and turned out to be a witch hunter she just erased him from her mind and life. All that made Cordelia feel the need of meeting the other woman. She tried to convince Myrtle to talk to her niece, but the older witch didn’t want to do it. She wasn’t sure if that was a good idea, yet Cordelia - in a fit of confidence - approached the woman.

Myrtle, of course, tried to stop her, but Cordelia just smirked “oh, don’t worry, auntie. I’m simply introducing myself as the Supreme”

And she did. Which wasn’t necessary, because the redhead knew very well who Cordelia was. Although she remained polite and introduced herself as well “I’m Wilhemina Venable”

They shook each others’ hands and Cordelia felt a weird kind of thrill. She couldn’t explain what it was, but she knew for sure that Wilhemina felt that too.

She indeed did feel it, but she wasn’t going to admit that she found Cordelia incredibly attractive. She was the Supreme after all, so the power and charm were radiating from her and Wilhemina was smitten. She was sure her heart skipped a beat when Cordelia offered herself in case Wilhemina would want to talk to someone or need help with anything. She seemed really nice. She definitely was better than all the warlocks, but Wilhemina still was closed off - mainly because she noticed Myrtle. 

They may not have known each other, but Wilhemina remembered her from some old photographs her mother had showed her, when Wilhemina was still a child.

And Cordelia as an observant woman and the Supreme immediately knew why the redhead was hesitant and because she truly wanted to get to know Wilhemina better, she tried to change her mind “I’m sure Myrtle will be delighted. The two of you probably have a lot to catch up on”

And as much as Wilhemina hated it, she couldn’t say ‘no’ to the witch, so she agreed.

Though the meeting definitely didn’t go the way Cordelia had planned. It was harder than she had thought to actually get Myrtle and Wilhemina to talk to each other. The Supreme did her best, yet her efforts resulted in the two women having a bad argument.

Wilhemina had never been told what exactly had happened between her mother and Myrtle or why her mother had ‘left’ the family. And so she held anger towards her aunt, because she was the only one who knew and could tell her the truth, but never reached out.

And maybe she really was too harsh and crossed some lines calling Myrtle “an old hag” but Wilhemina wasn’t the one to apologise, so she just left the Academy banging the door on her way out.

Myrtle may have been a bit calmer. She did understand that Wilhemina could be angry, but that didn't mean she was going to put up with such kind of behavior of "some spoiled child". And so she just huffed and slammed the door of her room with such force that a few photographs fell from the wall and crashed.

And there was Cordelia standing at the hall - not knowing whether she should go after Wilhemina or Myrtle.

She couldn’t help and felt guilty, after all the idea of meeting was hers. Yet the failure didn’t mean she was going to give up. In fact it was the other way. It kind of motivated her. And because she knew she wouldn’t manage to get the two other women to talk to each other, she decided to solve the problem herself.

Cordelia started with talking to Myrtle “Auntie, she’s your family after all. You may not have the best relationship with your sister, but you can fix it. You have your chance now - with Wilhemina”. And Cordelia was right and Myrtle knew it, but she needed time to decide what exactly she should do

At first, Cordelia didn’t plan on talking to Wilhemina, but she was an empathetic person and she knew the redhead was on her own and had no one to talk to. She also knew that making up her mind would take Myrtle forever, so she decided to go to Wilhemina’s workplace.

Seeing Cordelia was the last thing Venable had expected, but, even though she would never admit it, she was happy to see the witch. That’s why she immediately agreed when the Supreme asked if she’d like to grab a coffee with her.

 They both really enjoyed themselves, so they started seeing each other more often.

Wilhemina didn't want to meet with Myrtle, so she obviously wasn't going to go to the Academy, but Cordelia understood it. The witch didn't pressure and was visiting Wilhemina instead of Venable going there. 

And they both really enjoyed those meetings. They loved talking to each other and no matter how much they talk they never got bored.

Before they even realised it they were meeting almost everyday. And the line between being friends and lovers started blurring. 

And normally Wilhemina wouldn’t allow anyone to touch her, let alone sleep on top of her. But Cordelia was tired and at some point of watching some movie her head just fell on Wilhemina’s shoulder and the redhead was surprised to say the least. She tensed for a moment not sure what was going on, but she soon heard Cordelia’s steady breathing and soft snoring and not knowing why she just smiled. She didn’t have the heart to wake Cordelia, so she just let her sleep and then pretended nothing had happened when the blonde woke up at the end of the film. 

Wilhemina got so used to Cordelia that when the witch wasn’t around she was just angry and frustrated and it was hard to bear with her. 

It wasn’t exactly the same with Cordelia. Her good nature prevented her from being mean, though she did find herself thinking about Wilhemina all the time, which made focusing on her work pretty hard and so she ended up being frustrated as well. That’s why even after a long and tiring day she always went to Wilhemina’s. She just needed to see the other woman - even if for a while.

It was one of those evening, when Cordelia was really tired. She picked Wilhemina up from work and was going to drive her home, but Venable noticed the tiredness in the Supreme’s eyes, so she offered to drive instead. And there they were - on the way to Wilhemina’s apartment.

They didn’t talk much, but none of them minded. They just enjoyed the presence of each other. Though at some point Cordelia’s exhaustion took its toll. She accidentally brushed her hand against Wilhemina’s. She was ready to apologise - knowing that the redhead didn’t like being touched, yet before she managed to say anything Wilhemina gently took her hand and intertwined their fingers together.

That took Cordelia by surprise, but after a while she relaxed and smiled looking at Wilhemina, who didn’t averted her eyes from the road.

Ever since then they started being more affectionate and their meetings turned into dates.

It, of course, didn’t go unnoticed at the Academy. It was impossible not to notice how Cordelia was leaving every evening and then coming back late at night or in the morning. And the girls started teasing her about it.

Only Myrtle was still unaware of what was going on. “Where are you going this late, Delia?” “She’s going on a date with her girlfriend” Queenie would  answer for Cordelia. “Girlfriend? Delia? What are they talking about?” “I need to go auntie”

But even though the Supreme left, she knew she would have to talk to Myrtle eventually. 

Though before Cordelia had a chance to organise it, her aunt managed to figure out everything. She wasn’t necessarily happy that Delia and Wilhemina were dating and so she decided to tell the redhead off. “Well, I guess I can’t make my dear Delia stop liking you, so I decided to talk to you instead” “I just want to say that if you hurt Delia, I won’t hesitate to hurt you”

Wilhemina remained calm. She only looked at the witch and smiled “I don’t want to hurt her. She doesn’t deserve to be hurt by anyone. She deserves all the best things in the world”. And in that moment Wilhemina realized how much Cordelia had changed her, because normally she would get furious and would most likely argue with the other woman.

Next thing Wilhemina knew was that she was at the Academy’s door. She agreed to once again try and talk to her aunt. She wasn’t convinced it was a good idea, but since Cordelia cared and wanted her to do it, she had no choice.

The Supreme was pretty nervous, but she hoped that this time it would go well. Though she, obviously was wrong.

Yet another argument between Myrtle and Wilhemina started. Cordelia didn’t even know what was the reason this time. She just sit there awkwardly, while the other two women were yelling at each other. 

Things got even worse, when Myrtle made some comment on the way her sister had brought up Wilhemina. “Maybe she’d have done it better if she hadn’t been left all alone” “She was alone, because she wanted to be. I tried to reach out so many times… But she was stubborn and full of pride. And you’re just like her” “I’m nothing like her. You don’t even know me. It’s easy for you to judge, because you never had to deal with everything that she dealt” 

And Myrtle was about to say something, but before she managed Cordelia rapidly stood up and suddenly the flames in the fireplace spurted. “Stop shouting at each other and sit down” the Supreme demanded and both women immediately followed her order

“Could you stop turning every meeting into a battlefield? I’d really appreciate if we just could have a normal dinner, like other families do. Is it too much to ask for?!”

Wilhemina and Myrtle looked at each other and then back at furious Cordelia. They had nothing more to say. In fact they forgot they were arguing, because they both cared about Cordelia more than anything else.

Though the Supreme kept talking. She had gone through old coven records and files, she had even met with one of the warlocks to solve the situation.

And so she explained that it was Wilhemina’s father who wanted to isolate her mother and then when she did manage and send Myrtle a letter it was Fiona who took it, because she hated Myrtle and wanted to crush her heart.

And after that both Myrtle and Wilhemina were speechless. The older witch is the first to spoke. She told Wilhemina how she argued with her mother, who was jealous of her powers and how she begged her not to marry the warlock “I was sure nothing good could come out of that marriage, though… I wasn’t completely right. After all you are their child and you are something good”. Myrtle also admitted that it was hard for her to be around Wilhemina, because she reminded her of her sister and that she hadn’t had a chance to talk to her before her death.  

Wilhemina said basically the same thing - that Myrtle reminded her that she was all alone in the world after her mother’s death. At which the older witch shook her head “That is not true, my dear. You have me and Cordelia.

And that’s when Cordelia decided to make a move. “You know… I’ve been wondering… It’s been a while since we’re together. And… I thought that maybe you could move in. I mean if that’s what you want. Of course, you could have your own room if you don’t want to share one with me-” “I’d be happy to share room with you Cordelia… and live here with you”

Myrtle only smiled looking at them. She couldn’t remember seeing the Supreme being this happy and so she was happy as well.

One week later Wilhemina moved in.

Cordelia obviously wanted to help with moving, but she had to work. And so she felt guilty. And when she finally made it to the bedroom she was ready to apologise, but she didn't have a chance.

The Supreme was taken aback as soon as she entered the room. There were candles everywhere and a huge bouquet of Cordelia’s favourite flowers. And then Wilhemina entered - all dressed up and the witch couldn’t help a huge smile on her face. “Wow! You… You look amazing, Mina” and Wilhemina just smirked at her reaction “I figured out you may need some help relaxing, Miss Supreme”

At the very beginning Cordelia was worried, because she almost always had a lot of work and didn’t want to leave Mina alone. Though the redhead assured her that she understands “You’re the Supreme and you have your responsibilities. And I completely understand it, Delia and I could never be angry at you for having to fulfil them”.

And they just lived a normal, peaceful life… until one day…

It was their day off and they decided to go on a walk. They were in the park, walking slowly through the alleys talking about everything and nothing, when Cordelia’s eyes laid on a woman with a stroller.

Wilhemina didn’t notice it at first. She kept talking, but nothing getting any response from the blonde she looked at her. She didn’t realize what the Supreme was looking at or why was so so hypnotized, so she asked “What are you looking at?” And she regretted it immediately.

Cordelia faced her and looked at her with puppy eyes “I want a baby”

That definitely wasn’t what Wilhemina had expected. She tensed up and despite trying not to, she got a bit nervous “I… I didn’t… You never mentioned you want kids”

And the witch just kept staring at her “Pleaseeee” and Venable couldn’t help, but began to panic. Yet she still tried to play it cool “I mean… You know it’s not physically possible for us to have a baby”. Wilhemina was sure that her statement closed the conversation, but she was wrong.

Cordelia seemed to be unbothered by her words. She simply smirked “Well, not to the average person, it’s not. But I’m the Supreme”. And Wilhemina just rolled her eyes, already done with the blonde “I think we should go back home now, before you see more children and decide to have a kindergarten of your own” “Oh well, I definitely could have more than one child!” “I bet you could, but it’s not the time and place, Cordelia” “Oh come on, Mina! Just imagine how amazing that could be! Our own precious little children. We could have a little girl and maybe a boy. We could name her after your mother and if we have a boy we could name him Wilhelm”

And that definitely was too much for Wilhemina “God forbid! Cordelia, I’m begging you… enough talking about those little annoying creatures” But the Supreme pouted, knowing she had Mina wrapped around her finger, hoping it would work.

“Cordelia, don’t make me do it” the redhead said raising her eyebrow.

And they just stood there, looking at each other, when suddenly a ball hit Wilhemina’s cane and right after that a little boy showed up apologizing “It’s okay. No need to apologize. Right Mina?”

Wilhemina was ready to tell the child off, but she couldn't do it. Not when Cordelia was looking at her that way. And she gave in. She let Cordelia talk about kids.

“Imagine them calling you ‘mommy’” Wilhemina knew she had no chance to win with Cordelia, so she decided to try the other way “If it’s really that important to you, I can call you ‘daddy’”

And Mina knew it worked, because the blonde immediately stopped talking and her cheeks turned red.

Wilhemina was sure that the case was closed and she won, as she always did. But she was wrong.

The two of them rarely argued. Not that they didn’t have reasons to argue. It was just Cordelia who preferred to agree with Mina rather than to quarrel. She came to the conclusion that as the Supreme she could let Wilhemina be right or rather make her think that  she thinks she’s right. It just seemed to be easier.

Though this one time Cordelia wasn’t going to concede. 

Of course she loved her girls as if they were her children, but she truly wanted to have a child of her own. And it was her last chance to achieve her dream.

She was well aware that as the Supreme she would fade eventually, that’s why she needed Wilhemina. She wanted to make sure that there would be someone, who would take care of the baby.

Mina knew it all. She knew how much Cordelia wanted to be a mother, but that didn’t mean Wilhemina was going to agree. The idea of having a baby was terrifying.

If that wasn’t enough, she hated when Delia mentioned she was going to die someday, so that the new Supreme could rise. 

Wilhemina was absolutely terrified of doing everything wrong. She didn’t want their child to hate her, but she was sure it would, because as she said, she wasn’t a good one to be a mother.

Mina may have tried to pretend she didn’t care, but she did care. She hated to see Cordelia being sad, so, trying not to argue anymore she began avoiding her lover. And the Supreme noticed it immediately.

The witch wanted to understand Wilhemina’s behaviour. She truly tried, but couldn’t. It hurt her when Wilhemina became so distant.

Though instead of talking to each other, they both chose to confide in Myrtle. The old witch wanted to help. She really did, but couldn’t. In fact all she could do was to try and convince both women to talk to each other. Though both Wilhemina and Cordelia were stubborn. It went on with them not talking for a week or so.

And it was too much. Cordelia was done, she couldn’t take it anymore and so she decided to finally face Wilhemina.

At first Delia tried and was calm. She didn’t mean to argue. Actually she hoped they could have a normal conversation. But as Wilhemina began deflecting whatever the Supreme said, Cordelia snapped.”I gave you everything. I take care of you. I keep helping you and making it look as if you were the one helping me. I always go gently with you and try to make you feel as if you are the one in control. But guess what?! YOU ARE NOT IN CONTROL. You were not and you will never be. I’M THE FUCKING SUPREME and I’m done! I’m done with you avoiding me, Wilhemina. I haven’t done anything bad. I asked you for one thing. Just one thing that means the world to me… If you don’t care anymore… you’re free to go”

It hit Wilhemina. Her Delia never truly yelled before, so she did realize it was bad this time. She wanted to make it better obviously, but she didn’t know what to say, so she just sat down hoping that she would manage to find the right words eventually.

And when Cordelia saw Mina’s face she immediately regretted everything she said. She didn’t mean to hurt the other woman, she was just done.

It was one of the very few times Wilhemina actually cried. And it made Cordelia felt even worse. She immediately began apologising and pleading. Yet Mina admitted the blonde was right and she probably did deserve it.

And they just sat there together - crying and apologising each other, before finally having a real conversation.

They talked about everything that bothered them - all their fears and insecurities. “I’m not going anywhere any soon” Delia tried to comfort “But even if I die, which will happen eventually, there is Myrtle. She will help you with the child. You will not be alone”

And after being reassured that they were both capable of having a baby  - Wilhemina agreed. 

Tag list: @midnight-lestrange​, @natasha-danvers​, @stopkillinglilyrabe​

Good Kids: 

Patton Pascal- Son of Rapunzel- His hair has the same magical properties Rapunzel's had, he uses special scissors to cut them since he doesn't like his hair being too long. There will be some days where he's too tired to cut his hair, it's a daily chore since his hair grows at a fast rate overnight. He has brown hair and green eyes, he has rectangular glasses and wears a golden flower crown. Patton wears a grey sweater that has many types of flower patterns down the sleeves, he wears khakis and no shoes. He is a happy go lucky guy who thinks brightly about the world, however, reality hits him little by little and he realizes the world is a messed up place. Patton and Logan are betrothed and have been since they were kids. Patton helps bring out the emotions in Logan and Logan helps bring out the rationality in Patton. Roman and Patton are close friends who are both on the track team. Patton and Remy get along nine times out of ten, the other one time out of ten is when Patton lectures him about not sleeping. Patton is around 5'7 

Remy Bubbler- Son of Ariel- Remy is a half merman with a caffeine addiction, when he was younger he had sleep paralysis and it scared him into staying awake. He eventually found comfort in coffee, since he couldn't really talk to anyone about it he just bottled it up. There are some days he can't speak due to Ursula cursing him when he was five, that was because he talked to her son, Emile. Remy inherited his dad's black hair but his mother's blue eyes, his hair is a bit poofy. Remy wears a black leather jacket with a white shirt that says 'Sleep is for the weak, and I'm weak so see you in a week' and every time someone goes to read it he says "my eyes are up here". Coincidentally he wears glasses to cover his eyes from the sun, he has scaly freckles that shimmer in the sunlight and when he blushes they flare pink. He says "what up bishes" at least three times a day, unless he can't speak, then he signs it. Oh, and Remy is 5'11

Roman White- Son of Snow White- Roman, surprisingly, is really tan and fit. He's on the track team with Patton and he's always active outside whether it's putting on small plays for the children in town square or hanging out with his friends. Roman also knows a few languages such as Spanish and French, he was born into a big family consisting of six brothers and a cat named Acorn. He absolutely despises apples and prefers red grapes instead. Roman is tall, taller than Remy but shorter than Logan. Roman is about 6'1 with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He often wears a white button up shirt with a red vest over the top, he wears black dress pants and dress shoes. Roman always wants to stand out and he really cares what others think about him, that all goes out the window when he meets Virgil. Surprisingly, the two have a lot more in common than they thought. 

Logan Rose- Son of Belle- Logan is a well read kid who's betrothed to Patton and he wouldn't have it any other way. However, one thing has been bugging him the more he studied the past fairy tales, the villains kids were never given a chance. So he decided that his first decree as future king is that let the kids from the island come to school with them. Logan is 6'2, he wears a long black sleeved shirt with a blue tie, he also wears black jeans with dress shoes. He has circular glasses, he has brown eyes with light brown hair. No matter what he can't keep his hair tame, it bothers him all the time but Patton help brush and style it. He also carries around an enchanted rose, he doesn't know what's going to happen when all the petals fall off. It worries him, he doesn't even know where the rose came from but he can't get rid of it either. Sometimes Logan loses sight of his emotions but luckily he has Patton to help bring him back down. 

Villain Kids: 

Emile Picani- Son of Ursula- Emile is literally the friendliest person you'll ever meet on the island. He has a passion for swimming but doesn't get to do it often due to a barrier surrounding the island. One time he managed to escape the barrier somehow and met a boy, they became friends quickly but their parents found out. His mom cursed the boy despite her son's wish, time passed by and now Emile wants to right the wrong his mom did. He doesn't have tentacles but he has a pet octopus named Tentacles. Emile is around 5'4, he has blonde almost white hair and dark brown eyes, he has square glasses. He wears a black cardigan with a purple shirt underneath it, he also wears black pants. Emile also wears a seashell necklace his father gave him, he also has the warmest smile anyone has ever seen. 

Virgil Malevolent- Son of Maleficent- Virgil and his mom never get along, she wants him to do stuff that he doesn't want to. He doesn't want to be like her when he gets older. Virgil can cast spells, all he has to do is remember the correct words and he can cast it, or he can use his spellbook. However, his mom takes the spell book all the time so he's learned to memorize the spells that are important. Virgil wears a purple cloak that covers his outfit that his mother forces him to wear, it's a black suit with black gloves. He absolutely hates it, but he hates his hair even more. His hair has black roots but silver tips, he dyed the tips purple to spite his mom. Virgil also has dragon wings and piercing green eyes. He often doodles thing from different fairy tales, one time he accidentally draws Roman. Roman finds out and asks Virgil to teach him how to draw. 

Remus Queen (White)- Son of Evil Queen- Remus was taken when he was a baby, the queen raised him to he her own. Since he grew up with the evil queen he has been obsessed with mirrors and the way they reflect things. Remus was given a magic mirror of his own, and sometimes he would see someone who looked just like him in the mirror, he would always have a sinking feeling that he was missing something. Remus has dark humor and often expresses it into stories of the different fairy tales but instead of a happy ending they all end how they were originally intended to. His favorite fruit is an apple specifically yellow/golden. Remus looks a lot like Roman except for he's pale, also he wears something similar to his real outfit except the shoulder pads are toned down a bit. 

Deceit Facilier- Son of Dr. Facilier- Deceit is cunning and tricky, he plays with fate all the time but he'll never know his own. He messes with his tarot cards all the time because his friends in the shadows tell him to, but they can't seem to tell him how to handle his massive crush on his dark humored friend. Deceit has a problem with telling the truth, he believes a lie is way better than something true. Deceit basically wears the same thing he does in the videos except the cloak thing is actually a suit jacket with the tail that Dr. Facilier has on his. Deceit covers half of his face with a smiling mask that's white. He had a past relationship with Virgil but again it was a mutual break up. Deceit ends up becoming good friends with Patton, he also loves building things. 

This took so long to do holy hecking heck! But those are in depth character descriptions and more information on them. You guys are gonna make me cry with how much support you guys gave that post, I did not expect it to blow up like it did! Now I'm motivated to create a plot and story to this that's loosely based on the movie, however, I wanted to get opinions on a few things:

1- With Emile's design, instead of actual hair should he have tentacles for hair instead? Like a splatoon character? 

2- What should the name of the island and school be? I was thinking something along the lines of Mind Palace High. 

3- What should the au be called???? 

Also a few side notes: 

~ There will be ocs in here to fill the role of the unwelcoming crowd of students. I think Roman would fit in that role but I just can't see him being that mean to exclude them out, maybe at first he's hesitant to approach them but he quickly gets over it. 

~ Who's ready to see some sibling bonding between Remus and Roman? 

Ok, but thank you so much for supporting the idea, I didn't think people would actually like it. I really appreciate it <3 

Tag List: @rainboots-are-for-snobs @thelesbianspoon @slitherynchiken @icequeenoriginal @rainbowgirl157 @scorching-scotch

Fic: The Real Housewives of Storybrooke (16/?)

A fic based on this premise here, following the lives of Storybrooke’s elite wives, with all the scandal, bitching and backstabbing that goes on behind the scenes of high society…

This verse is open for prompts!

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[One] [Two] [Three] [Four] [Five] [Six] [Seven] [Eight] [Nine] [Ten] [Eleven] [Twelve] [Thirteen] [Fourteen] [Fifteen] [AO3]

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BELLE

Belle turned this way and that, looking at herself critically in the full-length mirror. Her morning sickness had finally managed to get itself under control and she was feeling well enough to head out to the gala with Cameron tonight, but she couldn’t help feeling like her pregnancy was suddenly obvious to the world at large, despite her not being anywhere near close to showing. She felt as if there was a huge sign hanging over her head announcing it to everyone.

Perhaps it was just because she knew that she was much paler than usual due to a lack of regular diet and she was wearing more make-up to cover it, but hopefully the atmospheric lighting in the ballroom where the party was taking place would help with that. 

Cam slipped into the room and came over to her, putting an arm around her waist and leaning in to kiss her forehead gently, not wanting to ruin her make-up or coiffeur. 

“The taxi’s here,” he said. “Are you ready to go?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be, I guess.” She gave a twirl, the skirt of her golden silk gown flying out around her legs. “I’m not sure I’ll be up for much more dancing than that this evening, but do I look all right anyway?”

“You look perfect, as you always do.” Cameron took her hand but made no move to leave the bedroom. “You know that you don’t have to come if you don’t want to; if you would be more comfortable staying here.���

“No, I’m definitely going after putting all this work into getting ready.” She smiled. “Honestly, I’ve been looking forward to this occasion. Well, I was looking forward to it until I started throwing up all the time. Since then all I’ve been looking forward to is not throwing up. Still, it’s always nice to be able to go out and show you off. I like having my dapper husband on my arm. Especially when he’s wearing a bow tie.”

She let go of his hand in order to adjust the tie, not that it really needed it. Cameron was always impeccably turned out whenever he left the house, which was why it was so much more exciting when she got him hot and bothered and dishevelled. She had not been in the mood for much of that lately, but she was hoping that it would come with time. Mary Margaret had commented on the middle trimester of happy hormones when she had been expecting Neal. 

“Come on,” he said. “We’d better go or else we’ll end up being unfashionably fashionably late. I know you’re not one who likes to make a big entrance.”

The taxi ride to the venue wasn’t all that long, but Belle wouldn’t have liked to walk it in her dress and heels. She hadn’t been all that involved in the planning, needing to focus on doing her day job when she could and taking care of herself when she couldn’t, but Ariel had been giving her regular updates, and as she and Cameron stepped into the ballroom, she could see that Regina had once again outdone herself when it came to presentation. She really should set up a sideline in party planning, and Belle wondered how she’d ended up working in local government in the first place when she had such artistic and organisational flair. 

“Belle! I’m so glad that you came!” 

Ariel was the first person in the crowds who noticed their arrival, and Belle was glad of it. She wondered if Ariel and Eric had been hanging around by the entrance all evening for the express purpose of catching her on the way in. 

“Mr Gold, I’m going to have to borrow your wife for a moment to tell her just how ravishing she looks.” Without any further comment, Ariel hooked her arm through Belle’s and pulled her away in the direction of the buffet table. Cameron was happy to let her go, accepting a glass of champagne from one of the waiters circling unobtrusively. 

“You really do look wonderful,” Ariel said. “Now I see what they mean about pregnant women glowing.”

“I think that’s probably more to do with the lights reflecting off the dress,” Belle said. “I feel about as far away from glowing as it’s possible to be at the moment. You look amazing too.”

Ariel swished the skirt of her mermaid tail dress, completely covered in sequins that faded from purple down to green. “I know, isn’t it shiny? It’s super-heavy though, you wouldn’t believe how much tape I’ve got holding it up. Anyway, that isn’t why I cornered you.”

“No, I kind of gathered that much. You’re about as subtle as a brick. What do you need to warn me of?”

Ariel pointed to the left in the direction of the bar where Zelena was entertaining a crowd of hangers-on. 

“Yes, well, I know we all hoped that she wouldn’t come, but it was really wishful thinking, wasn’t it?”

“Yeah.” Ariel sighed. “Still, she seems to be on a roll tonight. I’m half-expecting her to start charging for gossip.”

“Well, I know to steer clear of her at the best of times, but thanks for the warning.”

Ariel patted her shoulder. “Any time. Do you want anything to eat or drink?”

“I’d kill for a triple vodka and tonic but somehow I don’t think that’s going to be a good idea, so I’ll settle for orange juice. I need some sugar and food probably isn’t a great thought right now.”

Ariel grabbed a waiter and sent him off to source some orange juice, and in the meantime they turned to speak to Robin, who was, as expected, trying to hide behind the buffet table. 

“I don’t even have the excuse of needing to watch Roland, because he’s with Marian this week,” he lamented. “I’m beginning to consider texting her to make up some kind of fake emergency to get me out of this, but at the same time, I want to stay and support Regina. I just don’t like wearing the penguin suit.”

“You look very dashing in it. Who knew that you scrubbed up so well, Robin?”

“I did.” Regina came over and kissed his cheek. “Hello Belle. It’s good to see you; you haven’t been out and about for a while. Is everything ok?”

Belle nodded. “Yes, it’s fine, thank you. I’ve just been a bit under the weather, that’s all.” She wondered if Regina had already put two and two together.

“Uh oh.” Robin took a step back behind Regina. “Here comes trouble.”

Belle looked up to see that Zelena had shaken off her hangers on at the bar and was coming over to them. 

“Let’s hope that we can make her go away quickly.” Cameron had come over, slipping his arm around Belle’s waist. “Can we just pretend that she’s not here and that she’s not speaking?”

“Hello, everyone.” Zelena had reached them. “Belle, it’s so good to see you, you’ve been lying low recently. I do believe congratulations are in order.”

Regina raised an eyebrow. “Indeed?”

“Yes.” Zelena nodded in Belle’s direction. “She’s finally managed to get herself knocked up, haven’t you, dear? Got your claws in good and proper.”

All of a sudden, despite the music from the band and the general chatter of all of the other people around them, Belle was certain that she could have heard a pin drop. Everyone in their circle was looking at her and Zelena, and Belle felt her face begin to drain as her stomach rolled. 

“Oh, sorry, was it a secret? Oops.” 

Belle just felt sick, and something in the back of her mind weighed up the pros and cons of the mortification of throwing up in public versus the satisfaction of throwing up all over Zelena. No one was speaking. Everyone was just looking at her. 

Then she heard Cam’s voice, low and quiet and so very, very dangerous. 

“Never speak to my wife like that. In fact, never speak to me or my wife again.”

“Get out,” Regina said. “Leave. Now. Go. You’re the vilest and most revolting person I’ve ever had the displeasure to know. How dare you?”

“What, tell the truth? Look at her, she can’t deny it. I saw her coming out of the maternity clinic at the hospital looking very pleased with herself.”

“Mom, that’s awful.” Robyn peered into the circle from behind her father’s shoulder, her face stricken. “God, I knew you were catty and mean, but that’s something else. So what if Belle is pregnant? It’s not for you to tell the world that.”

“Darling, I was simply concerned…”

“Like hell you were,” Robyn snarled. “No, you just wanted to cause a scene at someone else’s expense like you always do. You’re pathetic.”

Belle’s nausea was gradually subsiding, and all she felt was anger, an icy ball of fury building up in the pit of her stomach and bubbling there. 

“You know, Zelena, I pity you. You’re so sad, and so lonely, and you’re so unable to find happiness in your life that you’ve decided that everyone else in the world has to be unhappy alongside you so that you can feel superior. You’ve been determined to punish me for being the one that Cameron chose over you, ever since we first became a couple, and for the most part, I’ve never fought back against you. I’ve never felt the need, because I know that Cameron loves me, and I love him and his feelings towards you… Well, there aren’t any. No matter the amount of mud you sling my way, you’ve never succeeded in making me feel insecure in my marriage. You’ve made me sad, you’ve made me angry, you’ve made me so enraged I hit you round the face, which I’m sure you don’t want a repeat of. But ultimately, you’ve always failed, because every time you try and come between us, it just makes us stick together even more. And now we’re having a child together, one that we have wanted and planned for over six months, and you can’t stand that all your efforts have failed. You’re a sad, pathetic little creature and you’re lashing out in your pain. I’d feel sorry for you if you weren’t such a horrible human being.”

She turned to Cam, who was looking at her with awestruck admiration. “I don’t think we need to stay here any longer, Cam. Will you dance with me?”

Cam offered her his free arm. “It would be my pleasure, my darling.”

“Not too fast and twirly,” Belle muttered as they made their way through the dumbfounded crowds towards the dancefloor. “I still might throw up at any second and I’d rather projectile vomit over her than you.”

Cam just kissed her, long and deep and in a way that could leave no-one in any doubt as to the solidity of their relationship. 

“Belle, you are a wonder, and I think I may just have fallen in love with you all over again. That was masterful.”

“I’m shaking like a leaf, but it felt good to say it. Everything just became clear. It was like a veil had lifted. She’s cowed me one too many times before, but suddenly, I just stopped feeling that way.”

As they swayed softly to the music together, Belle looked over Cam’s shoulder to see Robyn dragging her mother towards the exit, both looking absolutely furious. Despite everything, she smiled, resting her head against Cam’s neck and feeling his arm warm and solid around her back. 

Nothing was going to bring her down now.

Ellie - Olly Bright

Pairing: Olly Bright x Reader

Characters: Olly Bright

Warnings: N/A

Request: N/A

Word Count: 563

Author: Hannah

When people talked about having families and settling down in houses of their own, they were always in their mid to late twenties and had everything planned out.

You had things partially planned out but at 21 years old you couldn’t honestly say that you knew what you were even doing.

Having been in a relationship for close to four and a half years, you and Olly had spoken about the future numerous times but when you fell pregnant almost three years ago you panicked.

You panicked to your absolute heart’s content and then calmed down enough to just tell your boyfriend what had happened.

Olly’s mum was nothing but supportive, your parents however took a while to adjust to the news. When they did, they were relatively excited.

It was a hard adjustment but when your little girl Ellie was born, everything changed – the trivial things didn’t matter as much anymore, the pure fact that you and Olly had created such a beautiful little thing was all you could think of.

Almost three years later you and Olly were living in a house of your own, down the road from his mum’s place, and your little Ellie was about to have her birthday.

She’d decided that she wanted a ‘mermaid’ birthday party this year, as the years previous she hadn’t been able to have an input really.

As sunlight streamed through your blinds that morning you remembered that Ellie had been at her grandma’s the night before leaving you and Olly to finish things up for her party.

The smell of coffee wafted through your bedroom causing you to open your eyes and you saw the gorgeous man you called your fiancé holding a mug in front of you.

“Mornin’ baby,” he greeted with a smile.

You returned the smile as you sat up to take the mug off of him. “Hmm…what’s brought this on?”

He chuckled but shrugged. “An Ellie free morning means that I can spoil my soon to be wife with some coffee in bed.”

“Wow I really have trained you well,” you commented as you took a sip. “And you do make a good cup of coffee.”

Laughing he climbed back into bed next to you. “Oh, I knew you kept me around for a reason.”

He gently pulled you into his side, tucking you under his arm as you continued to drink your coffee.

“Our living room currently looks like Ariel herself has thrown up on it, and the back garden has the ‘mermaid station’ set up,” he explained with a sigh.

You smiled up at him. “She’s going to love it my love, I know it.”

He nodded whilst running a hand through his hair. “All that little girl needs to do is smile at me and it’ll all be worth it.”

“You’re the best dad baby,” you reached up to kiss his cheek as you spoke to him.

Smirking, he took the coffee mug out of your hands to put it on the nightstand before kissing you gently.

You giggled as he put his cold hands on the strip of skin that had appeared due to your top riding up.

“Then that means I can convince you to try for another?”

“Olly!” you exclaimed whilst laughing. “I’m only 21!”

He laughed along with you. “And all Ellie wants for her birthday is a baby brother.”

Dead in the Water (1/2)

You guys!!! It’s here! It’s our @csrolereversal drop date and I’m so excited for you all to see the amazing art @clockadile created for this event. Everyone, please go to her page, check out this amazeball painting, and send her all of the love that she deserves because this fic would never have existed without her! She is just such a wonderful person and I feel so honored that I got to make words in an effort to bring her art to life in a different way. I hope that I’ve done it, and her, justice and that you guys enjoy this. Shout out to @darkcolinodonorgasm for pulling this event together and to everyone in the rolereversal discord chat. It truly has been such a wonderful event and everyone has been so amazingly supportive of one another, so thank you all for being so awesome! Also tagging @cshalloweek​ even though my theme doesn’t completely match the day.

Summary:

Killian Jones may have just had the worst year of his life. The loss of his hand, of his career, and of his pride were almost more than he could take. In a bid to reclaim his life, Killian decided it was time to face his fears, and get back on the metaphorical horse, or in his case, back on the water. Only, the purchase of a haunted second-hand boat may just come at the cost of his sanity.

“The sea is like a cruel mistress. You can love her, you can hate her, but you can never trust her.” - author unknown

Rating: M (foul language sprinkled in and some adult themes)

Also on AO3

“Mayday! Mayday!”

Nothing.

“Please, is anyone out there?” The faint words were met with radio silence. The only noise a high pitched whining from what was likely a busted eardrum. Weak and dizzy, blood continued to drip into the water filling the cabin. The once brown floor now covered in pink.

Searing pain, a sinking boat, and all hope lost. There was little to do but wait. Wait for the inevitable. There was nowhere to go, no reason to have hope. Climbing to higher ground had been a struggle, and pointless as the vessel continued to dip lower and lower into the icy water.

That night, prayers went unanswered. The heavens laughed as they flashed their pearly white teeth and the crackle of a thousand laughs filled the air. The rain continued to fall all around.

There was nothing to do but wait until the water finally claimed her prize. Until the sea took it’s claim. Until the world went black.

***

It was unseasonably hot in Boston. Granted, summertime was hardly a perfect oasis in the northeast on a usual year, but that July had seen it’s hottest temperatures in over sixty years, and the city had been a sweltering mess. The usually pristine buildings along Freedom Trail were littered with blinding metal as each window had suddenly become occupied with ac units overnight. There had even been rolling blackouts as the power company struggled to keep up with the city’s demands.

Why Ariel’s Antiquities had insisted on holding their event outdoors was a mystery to Killian. Women and men dressed in their best, hoping that fancy clothes would somehow insinuate that they had money and could easily out bid their competitors. Unfortunately for them, their power suits became far less intimidating by the minute as sweat lines began to appear sometime just before ten. As the hours drifted on, people became puddles, their shoes sticking to the sidewalks.

Killian found himself near constantly tugging on the collar of his shirt, peeling it away from his sticky skin. Unlike him, his brother had refused to undo the top two buttons on his shirt and seemed even more miserable, if that were somehow possible.

The two men had been sniping at each other for the better part of the morning, and now with the sun at full intensity above them, they’d resorted to silence as they milled their way through lot after lot. The auction advertisement Killian had seen online seemed to have mostly a mishmash of memorabilia and collectables, with a few actual antiquities mixed in.

But unlike the other bidders, the two men weren’t there for random knick knacks. There was one specific item that had caught his eye on the online inventory. A tiny thumbnail the only indication of its existence and he could only hope that it hadn’t been from a previous auction.

For over an hour, Killian traipsed through the old fair grounds, Liam in tow behind him, searching with no luck.

“Killian, I hate to be the one to say this, but it’s not here. We’ve been to every lot and it’s just garbage.” He turned to see his brother giving him a look of pity, infuriating his very being. “Perhaps this is a sign.”

“A sign of what? False advertising?”

“That’s not what I meant and you know it. I just-” Liam took a deep breath, pushing the air out on an audible huff. “I just worry about you.”

With that, all of the anger and frustration from the day left Killian’s body. He couldn’t be mad at Liam any more, not when he knew it was true. When he still had memories of waking in the hospital, of seeing Liam’s eyes red and puffy from tears. It was the first time he’d seen his brother cry since their mother had passed years before.

“Liam, this is something I need to do. I need to prove to myself that I can get back out there. I can’t let this cripple me for the rest of my life.”

His choice of words hadn’t meant to convey the irony, but as his brother glanced down at the metal and leather covering his wrist, Killian couldn’t help but notice the cruelty of the universe. That even the most benign of words could cause such pain, even a year later. How even thinking about that day caused his missing hand to throb in pain.

“Killian, you are one of the strongest people I know. You don’t have anything to prove. Not to me or anyone else.”

Gone were the days where Liam teased him and called him little brother. Now, he was lucky if Liam said anything cheeky around him at all. And while he didn’t have anything to prove to anyone else, the truth was that he needed to show his brother that he wasn’t broken. Not anymore. That he didn’t need to be coddled like a wounded duck.

Before he could respond though, a glimmer caught his eye from a passing bidder’s reflective earrings, causing him to whip his head to the left. And there, tucked behind an old telephone booth, 2 huge entertainment centers, and a large canopy bed, there it was. There she was.

He didn’t wait for his brother, his jogging nearly breaking into a full stride. She was hard to see, tucked away behind items too heavy to move, but even in his limited view he could see that she was battered and bruised. Still, Killian knew that with a little sweat equity, she could be a marvel. He let his hand run down the fiberglass, feeling the strength of the hull, despite the hole in her port side. A gaping wound about the size of a bowling ball.

She was damaged, just as he was, but together they’d mend each other. He was sure of it.

“That’s it? That’s the boat you brought us all the way out here for?” Killian could only smile to himself. “Brother, she’s a mess. Where’s the mainmast? And did you see that hole? There’s no telling what kind of dry rot is on the inside.”

“Yes. I know she’s not much to look at right now, but-”

“No. You can’t be serious. She’s better off torn apart for scraps.”

Killian couldn’t explain to his brother the draw that he felt. He’d been searching auction houses for months. All of the boats he’d seen were either grossly overpriced, or faced the Goldilocks conundrum. Too small. Too big. But this one, it was just right. From the instant he’d seen that tiny thumbnail picture on his laptop screen, he’d felt it deep within his gut. He was meant for that boat, just as she was meant for him.

“And what kind of name is Jewel of the Real?”

“Realm.”

“Excuse me?”

“It’s Jewel of the Realm.”

Killian’s hand brushed over the faded wood, tracing the faintest outline of where an ‘M’ used to reside.

The rest of their time there was a bit of a blur for Killian. Liam trying his best to talk him out of buying The Jewel as people threw their paddles up in the air, capturing the trinkets on the stage. Killian fighting with a man two rows ahead of him for the winning bid, going over the maximum price he’d set in his head. Giving the auction house the delivery address, ignoring the way his brother huffed as Killian wrote them a check.

But none of that mattered, because in the end, she was his. The auction house delivered her a few days after his check cleared. The address he’d given them was for a warehouse another expat had told him about. Cheap monthly rates and all of that. What Will Scarlet had neglected to mention was that the warehouse was actually an abandoned building in a rather questionable part of town. Killian never should have trusted the man with a deposit sight unseen. The building lacked windows or doors, and Killian immediately knew he’d been had by the huxter.

He’d scrambled to find another place to fix up the Jewel. The drydocks at the marina were expensive and lacked space for him to spread out with tools, not to mention the absence of privacy while he worked. It was bad enough that people stared at his hook while he was picking up food from the local pub or out with Liam and his wife. He’d be damned if he was going to have people watch him work on a boat one handed. He even considered trying to work out of his friend, Robin’s, garage but the thirty two foot boat simply wouldn’t fit. No matter how imaginative he got with his sketches.

In the end, it was the most unlikely of allies that came to his rescue. The last man he ever expected to aid him with the Jewel. Liam owned a shipping company, specializing in European imports, with English ales and German lagers making up the bulk of his business. The main office was based in downtown Boston, but there was also a small warehouse down by the port where items were stored as they awaited inspection. His brother, still not happy with his decision made him an offer anyway. Come to work at Jones Shipping Monday through Friday, and he’d have the warehouse all to himself in the evenings and on weekends to work on the “abomination.”

Killian accepted begrudgingly. He wasn’t necessarily in need of a salary. He had the monthly stipends from the Navy to live on, the only benefit of losing his left hand, and the idea of becoming a corporate stooge maddened him to no end. He’d already sold his soul once, and they spit him back out once they deemed him of no further use. He wasn’t quite ready to lose the rest of himself to a full time day job pushing paperwork, schmoozing potential clients, and taking orders from Liam. But the perk of Liam’s harbor warehouse was too great to pass up.

So he took the job. He started on a Monday and the boat was delivered on the following Tuesday. Liam had neglected to mention his need for a key, so after driving across town, Killian ended up having to turn around without seeing her. The next day he’d nearly ripped into Liam when he saw him, but seeing three other men in suits sitting in front of Liam’s desk made him rethink his anger. Or at least rethink giving his brother a piece of his mind at work in front of people he’d only ever met at staff parties. He’d already had to deal with stares and questions from a rather bold intern. The stress from his own self-consciousness only amplified his frustration with Liam.

He finally got the key from Liam later that afternoon, along with another gift that he wasn’t particularly fond off. One that actually left him offended. One that he threw back in his brother’s face as he stormed out of his office, not caring one bit what anyone thought of him. Not when his brother obviously thought so little.

He was too upset to even go check on The Jewel at that point, choosing to head to a pub near the harbor instead. The Rusty Anchor was a fan favorite for expats. It’s where he’d met Scarlet, which unfortunately didn’t actually say much about the place. He’d met a few good blokes there as well though, like the bartender Robin. They’d become friends in a grief counseling group. It was mandated for Killian, but optional for the other man who was grieving his wife. Listening to Robin talk at their monthly meetings had helped put Killian’s loss into perspective. Suddenly his missing hand didn’t seem so catastrophic.

Robin had invited him to the pub knowing Killian was new in town with few friends, and the two men had formed a bond in the months since. In a way, he felt closer to the man than he did to Liam. Like he could tell him anything without the brotherly judgment that always radiated from the elder Jones.

After a few pints and a good talk with Robin, Killian had calmed. Liam was still a moron, but that wasn’t on him. And as Robin said, he just had to continue to remind himself that the only reason he was even working for his brother was so that he could fix up the Jewel. As soon as she was sea worthy, he could leave his job without breaking his word to Liam.

In a slightly better mood, he headed a few streets over to the warehouse, ready to take a full inventory of all of the repairs she’d need. The hole in the hull was obvious, as well as new paint all over, and she needed a new mast and sails, but there was always the concern of dry rot. That was the biggest worry. Having to replace every plank of wood and all of the fiberglass on the boat would defeat the entire purpose of restoring her.

Not to mention the difficulties he’d face using his hook. He was more than proficient with it for everyday use after eight months of practice, but some things still tested his limits. As he walked up to the warehouse, thinking about how he’d hoist the sails on without tearing them, he was completely lost in thought, oblivious to the man standing next to his boat. He was more than a little embarrassed by the shriek that escaped from his lips, but upon realizing that it was Liam there waiting for him, his distress turned to anger again. Especially when he saw the box from earlier on a nearby table.

“Killian, before you say anything, it’s not what you think. I never meant to imply-”

“What? That I’m a freak. That I’ll scare away all of the clients?”

“Actually, it was quite the opposite. I got it for you.” Killian looked down, unable to meet his brother’s gaze. “What? You don’t think I see you? The way you shrink in on yourself when you’re out with Elsa and me?”

Liam had him there.

“Look, Killian. I just thought that maybe it would help you to feel more comfortable. I never meant to insinuate anything by it.”

Perhaps he had overreacted. In his mind’s eye, it was just the cherry on top of a horrible year. The whole world judged him. Wasn’t it only a matter of time before his brother saw him as a disfigured beast as well? Except, that wasn’t what happened. He’d made a snap judgement, and thought the worst of Liam in the process.

“You’re right. I... it’s harder than I expected it to be sometimes. I thought,” he had to fight to keep his emotions in check as he remembered those first few weeks in the hospital. How he’d lost more than just his hand. “I thought it would be easier than this.”

“And I’m sorry that I didn’t handle it in a more sensitive way. I think I was just so excited to show it to you that I assumed you’d be just as enthusiastic. Obviously, it’s not all that functional, but it’s remarkably realistic and Elsa and I just thought it would make you more comfortable dealing with clients.”

Killian laughed to himself. A sad little thing. It was very realistic in a way that nauseated him when he first opened the box. Even now, as he walked over to it and lifted the top, he couldn’t help the catch in his throat. The prosthetic hand looked incredibly realistic, right down to the synthetic hair on the back of the silicone. There was a metal clip that popped into place in his arm sleeve and a metal wire that hooked into his shoulder strap, just like with his hook that allowed some slight mobility in the hand. It opened and closed, allowing him to grab objects if he needed to, but it wasn’t nearly as advanced as the mechanical hands he’d seen in the clinic. Although this one probably didn’t cost the same as Liam’s house either like the mechanical ones, which was a plus.

He lifted it from the box, testing the weight of it. It was slightly heavier than his hook, something that would take some getting used to. It was also probably going to end up being longer when all was said and done. Wearing suits might be a problem. He’d have to wait until he got home to check.

Liam, for his part, didn’t seem to want to make it any bigger of a deal than he already had. Instead, he changed the subject back towards The Jewel.

“Do you want the good news or the bad first?”

He’d already had a hard enough day. He didn’t need the bad news at all, much less first.

“The good.”

“Well, she’s not a total loss. I’ve been checking her over, and the bulk of the damage seems to be located here, in the hull where this hole is. The fiberglass is badly splintered around it. I’ve been trying to work out what exactly could have caused it, but aside from an act of Poseidon himself, it makes no sense. Whatever made the hole, it came from the inside of the boat. The furniture inside the cabin is also ruined. Smashed to pieces or rotted away. But the rudder and keel are still in perfect shape.”

Killian leaned in closer, allowing his hand to move along the edges of the hole. Liam was right. The edges was splintered towards the outside of the boat, and the fiberglass around it was all badly cracked. The auction house had sent him home with documents explaining that the ship had been docked at the marina and it had been hit by some object during a storm. They’d clearly been mistaken.

“And the rest of her? What shape does she seem to be in?”

“Well, the wood planks on the deck could use a good sanding, but if you’re just talking about integrity, I think she’ll hold up just fine.” Killian and Liam both climbed the ladder Liam had set up, allowing him his first good look at her. “You know about the mast and roping already. A full redo on both of those. But come look at this!”

Killian followed, letting his hand glide upon the metal railing. For the first time, it felt real. Look at this! It’s the original certificate showing the builder. You realize what this means don’t you?”

“That you’re excited she’s older than you are?”

“No! She’s vintage Killian! Once we fix her up, you can sell her for twice what you paid for her! Well done little brother.”

Killian took a deep breath, already out of patience with his brother for the day.

“Liam, I see three things wrong with what you’ve just said. First, it’s younger brother. Second, when exactly did this become a joint endeavor? Just a week ago you thought the very idea of my purchasing her was the single greatest mistake of my life. Thirdly, and listen closely Liam because I’m not going to say this again, I am not selling this boat.”

“Well you are my little brother. And I’m just trying to protect you. Why do you think I worry and watch after you so much?”

“You don’t need to worry about me!”

“Well apparently I do!” There was something about the way Liam’s voice, the way it broke as he screamed the words that tugged at Killian’s heart. “You almost died! I waited and waited while they searched for your body, sure that there was no way you’d survived that storm. And then I waited and waited again at your bedside in the hospital, praying to God that he didn’t take you away from me like he had mother. So don’t you dare tell me that I can’t or shouldn’t worry about you!”

Killian had to will back the tears threatening to fall from his eyes. He knew that Liam had been at his bedside in the hospital, but he had never thought of what it must have been like for him getting the call that his brother was lost at sea in a storm. He spent a great deal of time clinging to some wreckage, just trying to stay afloat as the waves crashed over his head, and his body plummeted over and over for what felt like years. Once the storm had passed, he found a piece of the destroyed ship large enough for him to crawl on top of and he let the exhaustion take over. When he woke again it was to intense agony in the hospital ICU.

“Liam, I’m not out there anymore. I’m not adrift at sea anymore. I’m here, and I’m fine.”

“But you aren’t. You aren’t here. You say you are, but I think a part of you died out there that day, and I-” Liam gave up all pretense of hiding, letting the tears flow free, “I think part of you wants to get lost again. Why else are you so intent of fixing up this boat?”

“That’s what you think? That I want to put in all of this work just to go out and vanish into the ocean? Liam, I’m doing this to prove to myself that I can. Because the idea of going back out there sends a bolt of terror through my spine right to my very core. I need to show myself that it was just a freak accident. To get back up on that proverbial horse.”

Liam said nothing, just walked back down to the stern of the boat and down the ladder, walking straight out of the warehouse, leaving Killian alone with the guilt of everything he’d put his brother through. Even as children he was always managing to get into trouble, and poor Liam had always been the one to pick up after him. As he heard Liam’s car start up from the open warehouse door, he couldn’t help but wonder how much more Liam had left in him.

If it weren’t for the fact that he had work at eight in the morning, he very likely would have found himself back at Robin’s, downing a full bottle of rum all on his own. As it stood, he had a debt to Liam, far more than for the agreement he’d made for the warehouse space. He owed his brother everything, and though he couldn’t give Liam the one thing he wanted most, he could give him everything else. He could be the prodigal son in a way. Arrive to work everyday in nice clothes, rubbing elbows with Boston’s elite.

So instead of heading back to Robin’s he went down into the ship’s cabin. The space was small, not that he expected much. The boat was only thirty two feet long, and not that tall. There was enough space for a small kitchenette with a tiny sink and grill top. Across from that stood what should have been a small dinette area. Where a table and bench seat should have been was nothing but wood scraps and moldy torn fabric.

He nearly gagged when he opened the door to the tiny lavatory. The toilet was covered in black mold, or what he hoped was mold as nothing else seemed like an attractive option. And then he went to the bedroom area up at the front of the boat. He wasn’t quite sure what to expect, knowing that the hole was in that area. What he found was nothing though. The bed and mattress had been removed, as well as the padding in the seat next to it. The wood forming the cabinets and closet had been torn out as well, leaving behind only the impressions of where they once fit in.

It was evident that the Jewel needed work when he bought her. And he knew that had he known at the time just how much work she needed at the auction house, he likely still would have bought her. But as he stood there, in the torn apart interior, he couldn’t help but feel scammed by Ariel’s Antiquities. They’d purposefully positioned her in a way that no one could see just what shape she was truly in.

Repairing her would take longer than anticipated, which only meant more time working for Liam. Exhausted, Killia headed back to his one bedroom apartment, crashing nearly the moment his head hit the pillow. The next morning, he rose well before the sun, even without the use of an alarm. Apparently you could take the man out of the navy, but not the navy out of the man.

After a nice run, Killian readied himself for the day by showering. Once dry, Killian placed his sleeve over his stump, followed by the hook he’d become so used to. He then picked out one of his better suits, not that he had all that many to choose from, dressed, combed his hair, and stepped back to take stock of himself in the mirror. It wasn’t a look he was used to. In fact, the last time he’d been dressed in such a way had been his mother’s funeral. He was still a teenager, Liam barely an adult himself, wearing suits they hadn’t yet grown in to.

Not wishing to dwell on that thought any longer, he headed for the door, grabbing his keys from the bowl on the side table.

And that’s when he saw it. The gift that Liam had given him the day before. His brother had left it in the warehouse in his haste to escape, and Killian had grabbed it on his way out, still not sure how he felt about it. He’d never really intended to wear it, not for everyday office use at least, but as he stood there in his suit, feeling completely uncomfortable and out of place, he decided to, just for once, do something for Liam.

It took him a few minutes to undress, removing his suit jacket and dress shirt so that he could disconnect his hook from the shoulder strap. The hand felt clunky on his arm, and it was difficult to get it through his sleeves, but in time he managed.

The drive to Liam’s, and now his office, wasn’t a long one, but at seven in the morning, it may as well have been a full county away. The traffic was horrible, not something he’d become accustomed to driving in. He’d always avoided rush hour like the plague, and now it would be a part of his daily routine. He also found that the hand was difficult to use. Because of his sitting position, it wouldn’t quite clamp shut around the steering wheel the way his hook would have.

By the time he arrived, he was over ten minutes late, and the morning staff meeting had already started. He did his best to sneak in, sitting at the back of the room, hoping to go unnoticed by Liam, but because the world was already against him that day, he failed.

Liam called him up to the front of the room, officially introducing him to everyone as the new head of client relations. Killian gave an awkward wave and that was it. He’d been inducted into the company, and day after day, week after week, he sat at a desk, working up contracts, researching possible leads. His nights were often spent at dinners, flirting with wives and schmoozing husbands into signing with Liam’s company. He hated it, and more still, he hated how little time he had for repairs on the Jewel.

Repairing the hull had been easy. He sent off for a patch kit, a misleading name considering the size of the hole to be touched up. After carefully cutting away the excess damaged fiberglass and setting the patch in place, he waited for the epoxy to harden, sanding down the excess so it was smooth. Aside from the lack of paint, she looked good as new. The hardest part had been placing everything where it needed to go with just one hand.

He soon realized just how difficult repairing the rest of the boat would be. The entryway to the Jewel was narrow, hardly wide enough for one person to enter at a time. He’d never be able to get fully assembled furniture and cabinets in. So slowly, he brought in all of the material, piece by piece. It took time, considering he’d had to carry all of the materials from the parking lot down the dock, and onto the ship. It was exhausting work, and there was still the matter of assembly. It took him weeks to get everything cut just to size, and assembly space had become a real issue after the new bench and table had been installed. Finding a place to store the cabinetry wood had almost broken him. The boat had almost broken him.

But he persevered. Slowly the cabinets came together. The bedroom in the bow of the boat found itself with a bed and a small closet, and the bathroom got a shiny new toilet. After two months, he’d finally finished the interior of the boat. All that stood in his way from land and sea was a new mast, the part Killian had been dreading most.

It was the very first thing Killian had ordered after he’d purchased The Jewel, but as with any special order, it had taken over a month to arrive, and then when it did, it wasn’t even the right size. He and Robin had spent the better part of a day trying to make it work, to somehow force the new mast into place, huffing and puffing at the weight. Hours later, Killian finally admitted defeat, and with shaky arms sent the company a firmly worded email chastising them for their incompetence.

Two full months and one paint job later, a new one arrived. Robin was unable to help him again though. Setting his pride aside, Killian was forced to ask for help. He and his brother’s relationship had soured. It wasn’t that there was ill will between the brothers, but there was a small bit of resentment on Killian’s part. Sometimes it seemed as if Liam was giving him extra work and setting extra meetings for the sole purpose of stalling his repairs. Some of the clients that Liam set him up with were too small to even have shipping needs.

We just want to make sure that they keep us in mind incase the expand Killian. You have to always be selling Killian. It’s called networking Killian.

He’d had enough. Eventually he’d declined enough of Liam’s offers to spend time together on the weekends that Liam had stopped inviting him over. The brothers discussed business needs, but outside of the office, they may aswell have not even have been related. Killian did feel bad. His brother was the only family he had left after all, but there was just the matter of his pride. He’d had so many arguments with Liam in his mind that he couldn’t remember which conversations were real, and which were made up. He just knew that he was right in all of them.

Which is why it was so hard for him to turn to Liam for his help. Unfortunately, the mast weighed a few hundred pounds and while the dock, where the boat finally resided, had a crane to help them move it in place, someone still needed to help him slide it into place and hold it steady as he secured it to the boat. The dock had a firm policy on not helping with certain repairs. They didn’t want to be held liable for any damages or injuries that occurred as a result of human error.

Asking Liam for help had been hard. It took him full two days of building up the courage. He’d nearly walked into Liam’s office three times before turning around at the last minute. Finally, he just had to man up. To his surprise, Liam agreed without much opinion on the matter, and that weekend the two brothers finally made up as they struggled together to install the mast. They tried seating it in place, but despite their best efforts, it was slightly off, leaning just a degree or two. While most people might have shrugged it off, both of the Jones boys were determined to get it in straight.

To the chagrin of the crane worker, they demanded he raise it back up so they could check to make sure the surface was level. Nothing seemed off to the naked eye, but again, the mast wouldn’t sit straight. After one final raising, Killian stuck his hand in the seat, trying to feel if there was bubbling or warping in the wood, and to his surprise, he felt something cold and smoothe, not at all like the wood plank he’d expected. After some fiddling, he was able to loosen the object enough to pull it from its hiding place. It was small, so small he wasn’t surprised that anyone at the auction house had missed it.

Liam, for his part hadn’t said much, but Killian could tell by the way Liam was breathing that his brother was annoyed, not with him but with the delay, and ready to finish working. Killian threw the gold piece in his pocket and together, he and Liam finished installing the mast and all of the rigging lines. Afterwards they went for drinks at Robin’s bar, a place Liam had never been before. They shared a few beers, caught up on all of the things they’d missed in the past few months, and each departed like it was no big deal, both ready for a good night’s sleep.

Killian had hoped to crawl into bed and fall straight asleep, but for some reason, as he laid there, his brain seemed to kick into overdrive. It started with thoughts of how he’d have to map out the currents and winds in the boston area before he could ship out. Before long though, all he could think about was work. He’d planned on leaving Liam’s company as soon as he was done, and while he hated some aspects of the job, he did like the structure it provided him with. It forced him to get back into the world again, something he hadn’t realized that he needed to do until Liam tricked him into it.

Unable to sleep, Killian got up to clean, something that usually relaxed him. He started with the dishes, washing and drying them all by hand before moving on to tend to his laundry. Most of his suit items were dry clean only, but his weekend clothes were soaked with sweat and best washed sooner rather than later. Checking all of the pockets and making sure everything was right-side out, he threw items in the washer one by one until he got to the jeans he’d been wearing that day. He’d managed to completely forget about the trinket he’d found on the boat, until just then.

He finished sorting his clothes and started the machine up before heading back into his bedroom, turning on the nightstand table lamp as he crawled back under the sheets. He let the metal turn in his fingers, inspecting the perfectly polished gold. It was a small locket with a bird etched onto one side. There wasn’t an engraving to go with it and told him nothing about the person who’d lost it. The chain that it was attached to was short and the links where tiny, meaning it likely belonged to a woman, but that was all he was able to gather. He continued to turn the locket, just feeling the weight of it in his hand, the surprising warmth of it, when his finger caught on a hidden clasp and the locket snapped open.

It wasn’t what he’d expected. Most women’s lockets contained tiny photographs, but the inside of this one held a small compass. The opposite side featured an engraving, but it didn’t have any names. It simple read: So you always find your way.

He should have wanted to search for the owner, to return what was probably a meaningful gift. There were plenty of news stories all the time about people helping to reunite lost items and owners. The soldier who had his purple heart stolen. The bride that lost her wedding ring on a beach vacation. They were always happy endings, and he knew that the locket didn’t belong to him, but for some reason, he just felt a call to it. Like he also needed it to help him find his way. So he kept it, slipping it on over his own head, having to pull it past his ears. He fell fast asleep soon after.

The next week at work had been grueling. Liam had lined up three dinners for him, one of them with a very sexually aggressive woman that ran a dog breeding company. Apparently there was a high demand for designer dogs and people were willing to pay high prices to have them shipped over the water during the summer and winter seasons when airlines restricted their pet travel policies. He’d had to pry her off of him at the end of the evening, promising he’d call her soon. A complete lie.

The whole encounter had left him feeling dirty. He hadn’t even so much as looked at a woman since his accident, not really, and he just wasn’t ready to move forward in a romantic capacity, even just a physical one. Not after having his heart shattered before. The woman in question wasn’t even interested in him. Not as anything more than a gigalo.

The weekend couldn’t have arrived fast enough. He just needed to get out of town. To get away from everyone, from his responsibilities. He was ready to hit the water and shed the ghosts he carried around with him. He’d planned meticulously. There were charts filling half of his closet and he’d popped by the Tuesday before to fill the kitchenette with snacks for his inaugural trip. He didn’t have a refrigerator yet so he’d done his best to stick with ready to assemble meals. Nothing big, just some bread and jams. A few tea bags and bottled water in case it got cold out on the water.

The plan had been to set sail just as the sun was rising that Saturday. To greet the new day on the water, but for some reason his alarm hadn’t sounded that morning, and for the first time since he’d joined the navy, he overslept. By the time he made it down to the docks it was just after ten, and the area was filled with people. Families going out on day trips. Tour groups trying to enjoy the last few weeks before the winter season. Before everyone would have to winterize their boats and leave them stored away until spring.

He was lost in his thoughts as he walked along the wood planks at the docks, past other ships, nearly tripping on a rope that someone has carelessly left out. Cursing under his breath, collecting himself from the slight embarrassment of it all, he glanced back at The Jewel. It was hard to see with the sun reflecting back on the water, but for just a few seconds, he could have sworn that he saw a shadow moving along her port side. There was a person on his boat.

It wasn’t unheard of, finding a vagrant living on an unused boat, or some random person lost and on the wrong ship. The Jewel had a very specific and unique paint job though. Mistaking her for any other vessel on the harbor would have been impossible. And he’d been there only a few nights before. He would have seen signs of a stowaway using her for shelter.

That could only mean that whoever was aboard his boat was looking for trouble, and after the morning he’d had, he was more than willing to give it to them. Swearing to himself, he picked up his pace, ready to give the trespasser a piece of his mind, but when he finally made it to The Jewel, she was empty. Thinking perhaps they’d gone below deck, he crept down the narrow stairs, doing his best to avoid making noise. There was no one though. She was empty. Just a trick of the mind.

Feeling foolish, Killian reemerged, on the deck, ready to give all of the lines one final check before setting sail when he heard a noise, a creaky wooden plank from down below. This time he ran, not giving a damn if the person knew he was coming or not. He was ready to find whoever was hiding.

Once again though, he came up empty. Even after searching in all of the cupboards and storage spaces under the kitchen bench and his bed. He checked all of the closets, but there was no one. He was all alone.

It was just in his head. Not surprising considering what a huge step he was about to take. The idea of going back on the water leaving him with an uneasy queasy feeling in his gut. Which was also the exact reason that he needed to do it. Why he’d tried to stress to Liam the importance of buying The Jewel.

He needed to conquer his fear. Even if his brain tried to scare him out of it. Because that’s all it was. A shadow from a person on a boat near his. An old creaky boat groaning from the change in humidity. It was all in his head, and it needed to stay there.

More determined than ever, Killian went back upstairs, ready to set sail, distraction free, but when he emerged from the cabin, he was met once again with an odd sensation. A feeling of being watched.

“Permission to come aboard?”

“Bloody hell, Liam? How long have you been here?”

“Not long.”

And there it was. His older brother, his protector, playing games with his head to place doubt. Liam had done more than his fair share of things to delay the boat becoming ready, but to actually try to scare him away was just too much.

“What the hell’s wrong with you?”

“Come again now?”

“I’m talking about you playing games with my head, trying to frighten me away from taking my boat out. You’ve made it very clear that this wasn’t something you wanted me to do, but this is a new form of low, Laim.”

He was furious.

“Killian, I assure you, I have no idea what you’re talking about. I’ve only just arrived.”

He watched the elder Jones, the way his brow furrowed. Liam may have been a great many things to Killian, but he’d never known his brother as a liar.

“Then what are you doing here?”

“I’ve actually come bearing a gift.”

It was only then that Killian noticed the neatly wrapped bundle in Liam’s left hand. Liam didn’t ask permission again, choosing to come aboard The Jewel to hand the gift to Killian. He felt more than a little guilty for accepting it, especially after having just yelled at his brother, but Liam was insistent.

Carefully he peeled back the wrapping paper, careful not to tear it, lest he find paper scraps for weeks to come blown into every nook and cranky. Inside, he found a book, an old one by the look of it.

“It’s a first edition. Took some time to track down or I would have had it to you sooner.”

The significance of Liam’s thoughtfulness was evident. It was a first edition of Peter Pan. The book their mother used to read to them nightly. Each time she finished, Killian would beg her to start again from the beginning. It was the thing that first ignited his love for the sea.

“Thank you, Liam. This means more than you know.”

Liam just gave him a nod, understanding the emotional weight they both held in that moment.

“I, uh, guess you haven’t checked the stern of the boat just yet?”

It was on his list. First the ropes, then a walk around above deck to ensure everything was properly secured, before walking around the dock to check that everything was good on the exterior.

Intrigued, Killian climbed down from the boat and walked around to the back side of The Jewel. But what he found was that she’d been renamed.

“The Jolly Roger?”

“I very specifically remember you telling mum and me that when you grew up, you were going to own a huge ship, and you were going to name her The Jolly Roger-”

“Just like Captain Hook.”

He’d completely forgotten. As a small eight year old, he was determined that one day he’d own a pirate ship. That he’d sail the seven seas taking whatever he wanted from whoever he wanted. Probably in part because he was sick of getting Liam’s hand me downs.

“I hope you don’t mind. I know she’s not exactly what child Killian had in mind, but you’ve done exactly what you said you were going to do. And I know I’ve been a prick about this entire thing, so I wanted to do something to make up for it. To show you that I really am in your corner.”

Killian was touched. It was possibly the first time his brother had apologized to him since before their mother died. Even then, it was probably the first time he’d ever done it without being scolded into it.

“Thank you, brother.”

There’s one final thing. Last night, Robin and I came out here and installed a motor on the back.” Killian was about to say something, but Liam barreled on. “I know. But I just want to keep you safe. If you should find yourself without wind, you’ll still have a way to get back to shore.”

“Marvelous.” His annoyance only slightly tempered by Liam’s attempt at a kind gesture.

From his inside coat pocket, Liam produced a manual for the motor. ‘A guide to your new Stern Mounted Electronic Engine.’ He had to give it to Liam. He’d thought of everything. Even a Mr. SMEE.

Together, he and Liam set about getting The Jolly ready. After checking everything over twice, they finally set out, both men trying not to hold their breath as the docks become smaller and smaller. After about thirty minutes, they were able to relax, realizing that the ship hadn’t yet sunk, and likely wouldn’t anytime soon.

The trip was relaxing for the most part. The brothers argued still, as Killian realized that Liam had completely rearranged all of the food in the kitchenette. It wasn’t surprising and he’d seen Liam do it at his house, whenever Elsa would just quickly throw things back in the pantry. But what did shock him was how Liam adamantly denied it, even though Killian knew he’d left the tea bags in the cupboard above the tiny stove top, not under the sink. And the chips had been moved as well as other items. Still though, Liam swore he hadn’t touched them.

Killian eventually let it go, finding it not worth bickering over anymore than they already had. The real fist-to-cuffs came at the end of the day, as the two men had already redocked and were setting the boat back to rights. Liam had grabbed the trash and told Killian that he was going to take it all to the dumpster in the parking lot while Killian secured all of the sails.

Liam couldn’t have been gone for more than a minute when Killian stood to turn and move on to the other sail when he slipped and fell flat on his back. It hurt more than he wanted to admit, and in his haste to stop himself from falling, he’d somehow managed to catch his hook in the jib sail, tearing it as he fell.

Killian took a moment to compose himself, waiting for the sting of hitting his back on the rail to subside. He must have taken longer than he realized, because by the time he sat back up he heard Liam call his name and scramble across the boat to check on him.

Killian assured him that he was fine, or that he would be as Liam helped him back up. Careful of his steps, he turned to see just what exactly he’d slipped on when he caught sight of small water puddles in the shape of shoe prints. Absolutely sure that Liam had made them somehow, the two brothers had it out, causing Liam to storm away in a huff once more.

Killian stayed long enough to dry all of the water and to watch the sunset over the horizon before heading back to his place to grab a much needed ice pack. His back was still sore two hours later, so he opted for a shower instead hoping that the warm water might help soothe the muscles.

Slowly he undressed, trying not to twist or bend too much. Catching just a glimpse of himself in the mirror are he removed the small gold locket he’d found, he caught sight of his red cheeks, realising that even in October, he’d still managed to get a bit too much sun.

Getting to sleep had been tough. It was only after a glass or two, or three of rum that he was able to find a comfortable position. He drifted off, dreaming of being a child again. Of Neverland and Captain Hook.

The next morning he was still quite sore, so he’d opted not to take a second trip out on the water. Instead, he’d spend the day shopping for groceries and flicking through television programs until he settled on Wicked Tuna. Before he knew it, it was time to ready himself for bed and another dreaded week at work.

It ended up not being as bad of a week as he expected it to be. Liam hadn’t scheduled any meetings for him outside of normal office hours, and the clients that came into the office to settle contracts all seemed relatively normal for once. The brothers had quazied made up, but both felt it was best if Liam didn’t go out with Killian again for a while.

By the time the next weekend came, Killian was eager to set sail again, alone. No distractions. No mind games. Just him and The Jolly. Unable to hide the gold chain under his work shirt, Killian had chosen to leave the compass at home all week, but slid it back over his head before getting in his car to drive down to the water.

For a few moments he worried that his plans would be dashed as his car had refused to turn on. The starter trying to turn over and failing. Finally though, he got her started and headed straight for the docks.

He went through his usual routine, checking everything over, checking the weather once more. It was a little windier than he would have preferred, but the local station said that the wind would die down a bit by mid day. With everything ready, he set out, heading up the coast line just a bit.

The wind stayed stead for nearly four hours, despite the weather stations promise, and at one point, his life preserver ring had managed to come loose and blow straight off the ship. Not wanting to waste sixty dollars on a new one, he turned into the wind, stalling the boat, and dove dove in after it. A foolish endeavour on his part, considering he was alone if anything had gone wrong, but he figured if he could just get to the ring, he’d be fine.

The water was colder than he’d expected. In the navy he’d done cold water drills, letting his body adapt to it. But it had been a year, and his body simply wasn’t used to it yet. The moment he hit the water, his leg cramped up, and for just a second, he sunk under the surface of the water as he grabbed at his leg. When he resurfaced, it was with a mouth full of salt water. His nose burned and his eyes stung.

Once he managed to make it to the preserver, he tried wiping his eyes, but it only made things worse. Looking around to see just how far he was from The Jolly, his eyes had difficulty focusing. Everything became blurry as it felt like he’d had sandpaper rubbed against his cornea. At one point, it looked as if there was a figure standing at the bow of the boat. An impossibility given how far out he was and the lack of other boats.

He closed his eyes, giving them a few minutes to calm down, and when he reopened them, the figure was gone, and The Jolly was more in focus. Killian managed to swim back to the boat, a freezing mess in his wet clothes. He hadn’t actually thought about bringing a change of clothes with him for such a short journey. He stood there on the deck a shivering mess, ready to give up on the day.

As he tried to turn the wheel he began to feel slightly warmer. The wind had finally died down just as local weather woman Alfina Merryweather had promised, except that Merriweather had neglected to mention that her version of a slight breeze was actually a dead stop.

There was nothing, not even the slightest hint of movement. He waited and waited, at one point removing his clothes and doing his best to squeeze as much water out as he could. He thought of Liam, of how his brother would probably be worried if he didn’t hear from him soon. Thoughts that eventually reminded him of the motor his brother had installed for just such an occasion. The motor that Killian never wanted, and certainly wasn’t going to admit to using.

It took him forty two minutes to read the manuel enough to understand what he was doing, the whole thing one long novel of gibberish. Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tried, and how many times he went through the manuel again, twenty minutes later he was just as stuck as before.

After another thirty minutes of attempting to start it and pretending that hyperthermia wasn’t a real threat, he finally caved, ready to call for help over the radio to a towing company. But the radio was just as dead as SMEE, and all of his calls for help were met with static. He began to worry, checking his phone to see the time only to realize that his phone was dead as well. He continued to plea for assistance, the static only becoming louder, eventually there was a spark as he felt a strange nasty shock from the microphone

He jumped back, yelling every curse word he could think of until he was nearly hoarse. Just as he’d quieted, shaking out his hand, he’d heard it. A creaky noise coming from above deck, The same sound he’d heard on his first day out. The sound of boards buckling under the weight of a person. He was sure of it this time, unless the jolt had managed to shock his brain too.

Slowly he crept back up the stairs, feeling every hair raise along his arm as he went. Something felt off. Something just felt very very wrong. But he persisted still, opening the door as quietly as possible. He crept along the deck, treading lightly as not to make any noise. As he moved high enough to see the front of the boat, he noticed a figure. An eerie ethereal blur of a woman.

But before he could say anything she turned and looked right at him. He watched her for a moment, as she seemed to float above the bow of the boat, somehow both there and not quite real. And then her mouth opened, and with the anguished scream of a hundred voices at once, she yelled at him to get out.

He nearly fell as he scrambled backwards, feeling his heart in his throat, trying to leap clear from his body. And just as quickly as she appeared, she was gone. He was paralyzed in fear, completely unable to move when he heard the boat’s engine spring to life, snapping him out of his trance.

Dear CASSIDY PILLSBURY-SCHUESTER,

It is with great pleasure we invite you admission to Joie University! Welcome to the Thunderclap family!

-

Congratulations, BREAD! Please be sure to check the New Members’ Checklist and send in your character’s account within 24 hours from now. We cannot wait to see all that you will bring to this roleplay! We love you already!

OOC INFORMATION:

Name/Alias; pronouns: Rye Bread

Age, Timezone: 26, EST

Activity, a short explanation: I’m a bread and I have no excuses

Ships: /chemistry, /forced for plot only

Anti-Ships: /incest, /forced

Preferred photo for Character’s ID (please give a link): https://media.them.us/photos/59fdad0c4fd386000be35a37/master/w_2560%2Cc_limit/AsosxGlaad_03_preview.jpeg

Anything else: I’m a bread and I’m a mess

IC INFORMATION:

Full Name (First, Middle, Last): Cassidy Neal Pillsbury-Schuester

FC: Tommy Dorfman (skating claim; Jason Brown)

Age/Year at University: 19, Freshman

Birthdate: October 1, 2000

Hometown: LITTLETON, CO

Gender/Pronouns: A-Gender, they/them

Sexuality: Pansexual

Major(s): Sports Science

Minor(s): American Sign Language

Housing request: Beiste Dormitory

Extracurriculars: LGBT+ Association

Greek Life Affiliation: Alpha Xi Lambda

CHARACTER PROFILE:

[At least] 3 Headcanons for your character:

Cass was born Cody Neal Pillsbury Schuester. The Nea is after Neal Schon from Will’s favorite band Journey.

From a young age, Cass struggled with gender identity but wouldn’t say it was a defining part of their childhood, it often made them feel like a recluse because they could not connect with binary boys in class but, with their mother being who she was, they attended a support group for children and young people who were gender nonconforming.

At first, they resisted, not wanting to attend the group because they thought it was “…silly because only people like mama need therapy.“ They soon understood it was to help them understand what they were feeling and give them the tools and language to express it. The group ended up being a very positive experience and they were able to make friends with people who understood them like no other. They also supported them in choosing the name “Cass”.

As a child, Cass always had a lot of energy though they didn’t know how to direct it. Emma and Will tried getting them into acting classes, dance lessons, and show choir but Cass always managed to get in trouble; saying things like how lame it was because it was what their parents did, or because Schuy and the others didn’t like to do it. Next, they tried putting them in sports but nothing seemed to stick, instead, they’d often escape practice and be found climbing trees, much to Emma’s disgust as they would trail mud and leaves back into the house quite frequently.

Cass frequently would tag along behind their older siblings though they weren’t the best at art so they didn’t always connect well with them; getting bored quickly. They did enjoy baking though if only to eat the treats at the end. In their obsession with constantly wanting to be around the others, Cass begged for ice skating lessons after Schuy and Austin or Ariel had them to prepare for an upcoming classmates’ birthday party at the local rink (Will and Emma did not want their children to be the only ones unable to at least stay upright on the ice for a full afternoon). Eventually, Will and Emma gave in and sent them to lessons. Cass had taken to the ice like a fish to water and the rest was history.

On the ice, Cass is jovial, passionate, and artistic but off ice they are much more reserved, compassionate, and conscientious.

Turning 18 meant they were finally able to compete in the senior Grand Prix circuit but their parents wanted them to focus on finishing High School. The Senior circuit meant more than just traveling around the country, it meant being on the world stage.

Cass thought their parents would be excited for them to continue their dreams of being a medal-winning pro skater but they frowned at the idea of them trying to complete school on the road in between training and competing. Their distaste was so strong Cass agreed to only compete in national-level events and finish High School on campus at home in Colorado.  

By the time graduation rolled around Cass felt underprepared for the senior competitive circuit so when they were offered an opportunity to train at Broadmoor Skating Club (a world-famous elite figure skating club) by their coach they jumped at the chance to take part.

Cass took a year off between High School and College to complete the year-long program at Broadmoor. Turning 18 and transferring to Broadmoor was when Cass found the confidence to legally changed their name.

The skating world is surprisingly closeted and binary so they are stuck in the men’s competition and is always addressed by their “legal” gender. Sometimes it hits Cass hard and is very painful but, most days, their mind is entirely on the skating so it doesn’t manage to penetrate the tough shell they have developed. Thankfully now that Cass is their legal name the skating community is forced to recognize it which helps.

Will and Emma were pushing Cass to continue into post-secondary education after their year at Broadmore so they decided to placate them by applying to colleges where there were professional level skating clubs that they were interested in. Eventually, after talking to skating clubs, coaches and choreographers they chose Shaker Figure Skating Club and Joie University.

Cass didn’t know what to study when they arrived at Joie, they knew they wanted to study ASL because there is a very big gap in support services in ice sports so they had considered a future in inclusive coaching or advocacy for minorities in ice sports.

STUDENT CENSUS SURVEY:

(Please answer the following questions IN CHARACTER. Responses can be as long or short as you see fit!)

What made you want to attend Joie University? Joie is located near a skating club that has produced Olympic level figure skaters and that was one of the biggest deciding factors for me in choosing a college.

What are at least 3 positive or neutral and at least 3 negative traits that you believe you possess? I like to think I am compassionate and empathetic, sincere, and respectful, an idealist, an individualist, a nemophilist, and indecisive but can be stubborn once committed.

Which of your traits do you value most? I would have to say my individuality. It’s such a powerful thing that I used to be so scared of because being different was terrifying, but now I really value it because it’s my niche on the ice; my style in my programs is so different to many skaters and I feel a sense of pride in that. The ice was the first place I felt pride in myself and now finally that’s beginning to spread to the rest of my life, for the first time I’m learning to be happy with who I am.

How can that trait benefit the University (or its student body) as a whole? Gosh, I couldn’t imagine how I’d affect the whole university but I suppose I could support others in being themselves and striving for their dreams.

What do you hope to gain from your experience at JU? People say normal is overrated but when you stand out for reasons beyond your control you crave a little normality. I thrive on the ice, but I hope Joie will teach me how to thrive on solid ground too.

What is a quote or song lyric that describes you?

No matter where you are in the world the rink is home -Jason Brown

Top Manga With Reverse Harem

The common name for reverse harem or also known as male harem is the gender-reversed version the traditional harem genre. Instead of seeing a number of female characters focusing on one male character in a normal situation, a reverse harem shows several male characters around a single female character. Except for the fact that the characters' genders are swapped, most details are the same. The majority of the changes refer to the behavior differences between males and females in the characters' ages. Due to the most relevant characteristics of the trope, reverse harem authors often choose bishounen looks. Reverse harem does not cover harems involving homosexual relationships, though they are an exception to the harem genre. Top 25+ Manga With Reverse Harem 1. An Otome's Bad End Chapters:26+ I was reincarnated as the otome player I had previously played. Ophelia, a beautiful female protagonist who resembles a goddess, is adored by many nobles, whereas Emilia, the character I reincarnated as, plays a supporting role as a villain, following around the male leads after Ophelia’s death, only to be destroyed by them. The default name Elodi is the player who appears to be Ophelia a few years after Ophelia dies from an incurable condition. The male love targets, who are heartbroken over Ophelia’s death, become obsessed with Elodi. I decided to give up this plot after I was reincarnated as Emilia in the storey. So, on the day of Ophelia’s funeral, I decided to quietly leave the place where I had lived for ten years. They were surprised that she was leaving. 2. I got into a reverse harem game! 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How are you?" Do you like cakes? "Lili looks just like her sister. Won’t you eat cookies? Please tell your sister that you were gifted these cookies by your amazing brother. "Would it be possible to have this meal and stay for a while?" I have some words for your uncle, and sister." The male lead candidates seem eager to see me, for some reason... “I don’t play with ugly kids,” the boy in front of me muttered with a deep frown. What? What? I’ll show you what the real world is like. I gently pulled the hem of my sister’s clothes and shook my head: “I hate him, so I hate the older brother who brought him.” At the same time, Cedric’s face turned pale, similar to someone who had been sentenced to death. An unseemly lady is currently publishing . It is also Known as: The Little Lady Behind the Scenes, 幕后掌权者小姐, 秘密控权的千金 6. Namjuneun Jeongjunghi Sayanghagessseubnida! 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My Life as an Internet Novel is currently publishing . It is also Known as: Net Shousetsu no Housoku, ネット小説の法則, La Ley Del Inso, Les Lois de la Web-romance, Net Shousetsu no Housoku, The Law of Webnovels, Võng Lạc Tiểu Thuyết Đích Pháp Tắc 20. Ouran Koukou Hostclub Haruhi is a bright, intelligent girl. She was born in poverty and got into Ouran High School through talent. She is mistakenly invited to the club's meeting room and accidentally breaks a vase. Haruhi, realistic and sarcastic is not used to being with crazy people like the princely Tamaki. Haruhi was mistaken for being a boy when she thought the club was for girls. This book contains chapters from the story "Romantic Egoist", which appears in several volumes. It stars a pair of twins, who play matchmaker against their teachers, classmates, and the like. Notice: The bonus chapter in the final volume features group travels to Spain. Ouran High School Host club is finished and has 18 Volumes and 87 Chapters. It is also Known as: 桜蘭高校ホスト部, OHSHC, Romantic Egoist 21. Otome Game no Hametsu Flag shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou ni Tensei shiteshimatta... After being hit by a rock on my head, I was able to recall all of my past memories. Katarina Claes (the eight-year old daughter of a duke) is me. In a feverish nightmare, in which the prince’s fiancee was determined, I have realized that this is the otome game from the previous life. Also, I have turned into the villainess that interfered with the romance of the capture targets… If the heroine got a happy end, I would be exiled, while if she got a bad end, I would be killed by the capture target… I have no happy end!? Is it bad? I can avoid the destruction end and still reach my old age peacefully.! I Reincarnated into an Otome Game as a Villainess With Only Destruction Flags… is currently publishing . It is also Known as: 乙女ゲームの破滅フラグしかない悪役令嬢に転生してしまった…, Destruction Flag Noble Girl Villainess, Destruction Flag Otome, I Reincarnated into an Otome Game as a Villainess With Only Destruction Flags… 22. The Villainess Loves I’ve transmigrated into the body of the terminally ill, villainous princess of a novel. It’s okay, though, I can cure this illness and live a life where I can do whatever I want! First, I would love to meet my favorite characters from the book in person. But, because I am a villainess, people around me tend to be wary… “You will die soon, and yet… how can you laugh like that?” Well, it’s ‘cus I’m super hot. The Villainess Loves is currently publishing . It is also known as "When the Evil Girl Loves". 23. The Bride of a Monster Ohae Na is dirt poor and my father is an irresponsible jackass. To make matters worse, different men are coming up to me asking to be their wife–wait what?! But, it turns out that they are holding a great secret… What are they exactly? The Bride of a Monster is currently publishing . It's also known as: Bride of a Monster (Monster Bride), Bride's Monster Read the full article

wish upon the sea

Characters: prince!Brian (Young K) & siren!You

Setting: a bit darker, twisted Little Mermaid au

Genre: romance, action, fantasy

Warnings: mentions of blood, death

Words: 5.7k

Author’s notes: I use the name Brian since Young K in this story is supposed to be the son of Prince Eric and Ariel, so a Korean name would have been weird, hopefully you won’t mind.

Dedicated: happy birthday, my dearest @restlessmaknae! ♥♥♥ I cannot put into words the happiness that feels me becausee of the close bond we share and that we can live through so many wonderful experience together. Thank you for letting me be not just a big sister but a best friend as well. Wish you all the best and welcome to the club among the girls in their 20s! Love ya! ♥

Once upon a time there was a prince who fell in love with a mermaid.

It was a truly heart-fluttering love story, everyone in the kingdom found Ariel lovely and kind-hearted despite her clumsiness and Prince Eric was often jokingly called a lucky bastard to have her by his side.

In a few years the couple had a child, a boy with charms like his dad’s and hair as red as the brightest coral in the sea just like his mom’s. The boy grew up to be a fine swordsman, a chevalier with the softness of the waves of seas on calm spring days. He was a good man, people said, everyone loved their handsome and kind prince and so many daughters wished to be the lucky one to have that golden heart of his. However, the prince's heart was already taken, swimming in fondness for the endless blues as he fell in love with the sea.

Ever since he was a little boy, Prince Brian and the sea were inseparable. As the castle was built on a shore not too far from the water, growing up he had spent a lot of time there playing in the sand, swimming, searching for pearls underwater. He liked the calmness and rhythmical waves coming to stroke his ankle as his feet sank into the mud, he liked the wildness of it when storms were raging over in the open fields and he liked that it had its borders but seemed to sweep through everywhere reaching every part of the world. There was something – something unexplainable and mysterious – about this giant of a sassy lady that attracted him and never let him go. He was under its spell and couldn't escape even if he wanted to.

No wonder he decided to join the royal marines as soon as he finished his training at the Academy. Being a sailor himself, his father (being the king by that time) was proud of him and supported his choice even if it meant the prince being away, on the open waters under the sparkling stars most of the time. But from time to time he came home, just like the tide always returned. He found his way back to the place where he fell for the depth and beauty of the sea.

He often found himself on the sandy beach by the water, watching it change various colours under the sunset. Sometimes he just watched it from the castle and certain times he wasn't even alone.

"Do you miss it?" he asked staring ahead at the endless sea as he stood next to his mother on the balcony. Her long red hair was decorated with jewellery made from sea shells and her locks swirled in the gentle night breeze behind her back. She had that kind of longing in her eyes that the prince couldn't understand until he didn't experience homesickness during his travels. There was no regret in those eyes, just a soft kind of sadness of losing something precious to gain another.

"It's hard not to when the sea calls for me constantly," Queen Ariel said in a gentle voice, almost like a sigh and her son couldn't even imagine the loss she felt. When she had given up on her tail to get legs, it hadn’t been the only thing she willingly let go off.

The sea's rules were strict. You couldn't turn your back on it without paying a price and every merbeing knew what it meant to leave their home behind: they could never go back.

So the prince was curious and he had matured a lot during his overseas training. Hence, he dared to ask the question he never asked out loud before.

"Do you regret it?" he whispered with eyes trained on the azure waves he loved so much.

He had been travelling throughout the Seven Seas for years now but he hadn't had the chance to stumble upon any merbeing like the ones told in his mother's tales. But her family, as she called the tribe, had always been a careful one, avoiding being in the centre of attention until Ursula's short but deadly rule. By now there was peace over the waters again.

"Choosing your father over being a mermaid? No. It's not regret. I only wish there would have been another way," the Queen shook her head staring ahead. Her honey voice was filled with nostalgia and melancholy. "But the sea is a selfish creature, a jealous lover. You can never win against it."

The prince hummed, knowing. This was a lesson he had been taught ever since he was young. He was warned to be always wary of the sea as what it gave, it could take it away just as easily. And yet, there was something out there that attracted him like flame enchanted the butterflies, he had always found his way back to it.

"Will you leave again, son?" Ariel turned her back on the stormy waves and stroke a smooth hand over the young man's face. The red locks he had got after her created a great contrast against the dark night even under the white moonlight. He was as bright as fire in the darkness.

"As soon as the maps are ready," he nodded firmly, worry evident in his eyes as he looked over the horizon. "There are more and more pirate ships around the border. We need to show them they can't hang around here. They should leave."

Politics had been a mess but the ongoing, endless wars against the Pirate Nation had been even worse. There was nothing they could negotiate with. The pirates lived for spilling blood, they weren't satisfied with anything, they always wanted more and more. More money, more freedom, more blood in the oceans. But Brian wasn't just going to let them win.

"Be careful," the Queen patted his cheek with the softest smile only mothers could make because no matter how old her son was, he was still her giggling little boy who had played with crabs and little fish in the ankle-high water by the beach.

"As always, mom," Brian promised, leaning his head into the motherly touch.

Cold breeze passed between them, bringing the forecasting of something bad coming from the sea but neither of them listened. Humans never did.

The sea wasn't a graveyard just for wrecked ships and poor souls but for broken promises and lost loves too. It had buried more than human recollection could hold onto.

And soon, you were going to join the ruins under, you were sure of it.

Handcuffed to the mast out in the open pirate ship, close but still so far away from your precious sea, you already felt like dying. Your human legs had become awfully dry due to the lack of water and every movement hurt as the blood in your veins got warmer than normal. Fever did no good to you as you leaned your sweaty forehead against the wood. Closing your eyes you imagined swimming home without a care. You really didn't want to think of all the possibilities of being sold or that they would scrap the scales off of your tail. Pirates didn't treat you as a woman even if only one huge man shirt was thrown over your bare, lithe body. In their eyes, you were an animal, being half-fish, half-human. They had big mouth, spits and swear words but their eyes couldn't lie. You saw it in their eyes, the fear and the attraction humans had towards mermaids, your unearthly beauty. But without your power, without your song, you were nothing but a tied up barely girl, useless and harmless. You hated being so weak.

"Ship on the horizon!" someone hollered in terrible dialect from the ship's bow and it was enough to stir up the waters around. Pirates all around you got their lazy asses up and with weapons in hands they rushed to prepare the ship for an attack.

"'Capt’ it's the Royal Marines," another one cried out as the three ships became more distinguishable in far-sight.

"Of course, they are," the wood-legged man snorted in disgust but the grin on his ugly face only showed satisfaction. This was just what he wanted, that was why they came here in the first place: to demolish the King's navy. Or at least his precious son and only heir. Victory could never taste as sweet as a revenge upon those who took everything from him.

Being so tired and weak, you were barely able to realize what was going on until someone splashed water into your face and shrieking you awakened from your half-lulled dream.

"The show must begin, little songbird. Are you ready to sing?" the Captain grinned at you, yellow teeth on full display as he was panting so close to your face. Disgusted, you turned your head away.

Or at least, you would have turned it but then suddenly you were yanked onto your wobbly feet by your chains and you almost fell onto your knees being ever so weak in your human legs you never really learned how to use.

"Now listen to me, doll," the pirate continued on, as he grabbed your chin and forced you to look him in the eyes, dark as the deepest pits of the sea. "Don't even think about escaping, I will kill you before you could leave the 100 meter radius of this ship. You just need to awake a storm and sing a pretty song to the sailors coming at us, okay? If you do a good job, then maybe I will reward you or if I'm feeling generous I might even let you go. What about that?"

"I- I cannot sing..." you croaked out, voice hoarse from being kept like a dog for days now. Without water you barely survived, how could he think you were still able to do what he wanted you to?

"Oh, silly girl, you think I don't know that?" the man huffed out and tossed you a huge canne of water. You were like a lunatic on verge of dying because of thirst based on the way you caught on that. You gulped down the oh so sweet, salty sea water and you felt your blood buzzing in excitement. Power, finally.

"Now sing!" the captain ordered once all his men put something into their ears to dull your enchanting voice. This way it couldn't affect. You grimaced at the smart move and when you were dragged to the side of the ship, you opened your mouth to sing.

Whenever you let that lulling melody fall from the tip of your tongue, you felt powerful, almost invincible. But now, you could barely hit the right tones. You thought you wouldn’t be able to summon anything at this rate but the sea, taking pity on you, started stirring up around the ship, clouds darkening above and the first drops of rain felt like a miracle on your dry skin. You closed your eyes for a moment, letting out a deep breath before starting that song again, the one that allured so many sailors into the loving arms of death.

The three ships of navy got closer in the meantime and the first roar of cannon made you tremble. The second made you fall as the pirate holding on your chains lost his balance and pulled you with him. Out of breath, you collapsed onto the wood board. You couldn't keep up. That much of water after being dried under the Sun didn't even give you enough strength to transform back into your full form. You could barely answer to the pull of the sea by finding your voice and that sweet melody.

You stopped singing, pushing him away as his hands grabbed on your shirt to stop you from escaping. Not like you could go far away with those metals around your ankle and the ties around your wrists but at least you wouldn’t be a puppet on string in a useless fight. You couldn’t wait for the ship to sink anyway.

“Why did you stop singing, little birdie?” The pirate clicked his tongue, following you to the mast where you tried to get the chain off in vain. He grabbed on your waist hauling you up.

“I’m not your songbird,” you gritted your teeth, angry, feeling the power of sea so close. You knew it had your back. You were so so mad, you could have killed this pirate with bare hands, only if you’d had your powers!

Everybody was running around on the ship, cannons fire shots, the ship tilted to one side and then the other as it got closer and closer to the maelstrom created closeby. You knew the power of the sea, a vortex like this could drag down whole armadas. A few pirate ships and three navy ones were like a children play.

You hung onto the mast as the navy ship got next to the one you were on in the next circle it took down the spiral. You kicked and hit until the pirate had to put you down and when he tried to lay his dirty hands on you again, you bit into his finger and just as he screamed in pain, you wrapped your own ties around his neck and squeezed it as long as you heard him breathe. Just another dead body as a sacrifice to the sea, you have seen them fall one by one anyway. The marines obviously overpowered them but you didn’t care about the gunshots and the screams and the blood spilling all around. You tried to get rid of your chains with trembling hands.

"There's a girl here! Help, they kept a girl as a hostage!" Someone hovered over you out of the blue. With a knife in one hand, he made a quick job with the rope tie around your hands, getting those off of your bruised wrists but you couldn’t help but flinch when the cold metal touched your skin and for a moment you thought he was going to dig it deep into your still heart. However, he hadn’t touch you like this, his eyes quickly skimmed through your body until he find the metal cage around your bare ankle. Only when he finished getting rid of the chain, you looked up at the stranger.

Marks of the battle were evident on his features in red split lines but his hands were warm and gentle as he covered you with his own jacket probably thinking you were cold in that thin shirt thrown upon you. He put a hand over the small of your back, pulling you up by the elbow with the other. He treated you as if you were fragile, harmless... human.

As if he was a mere fever dream you could only blink at him in awe, at his hair shining like the ardent, burning-hot colour of the sunset, so different from your own ink-like locks. And his eyes, those brown orbs, even with the fighter spirit in them, were so warm even your cold, cold heart felt the tremble as your gazes met.

"You're safe now," he said oh so softly but how a naive soul he was! The battle wasn't over yet and if it were, it wouldn't have been you who had to be afraid. He had no idea what you were capable of, how many hearts you had taken already. He held you as you stared at him, the first one to help you in order to save you from a possible unfair death on a pirate ship and then another cannon ball slammed into the wooden body of the ship.

"Lieutenant, get out of there!" Someone from the other ship brushing so close to this yelled but it was too late.

The fire of the fiery shot had already reached the gunpowder under the deck and it exploded like magical fireworks in the sky. The whole ship shook with the power of it, the wooden floor collapsed beneath you and the two of you fell into the water amongst the ruins of the pirate ship.

As soon as your skin made contact with the salty sea water, it felt like rebirth. Life was breathed into your burning lungs and you finally arrived home. You felt the scars heal, the bleeding stop and in the dark water lit by the orange of fire, you transformed: human legs got colour, covered by turquoise scales. Golden dots tainted tail and breast covered by finlike pattern, you got rid of the shirt and jacket to take a deep breath from the oxygen-filled water.

There were so many different feelings in you that wanted to break out. Anger, happiness and sadness all alike. You wanted to avenge what these pirates did to you but they were doomed to die anyway, the sea, the Mighty, was just as angry as you were. On the other hand you were finally free, you could have just swimmed away, away from this madness not looking back. But as you made the first movement to leave, you saw him, the soldier, the lieutenant who helped you, his body slowly sunk under as his muscles were on the verge of fighting against his lungs screaming for oxygen. He didn't deserve to die, that much was sure. He was caring and understanding even if he didn't know you. He was the first to treat you like a human being and as you watched him close his eyes, hands reaching for the surface, you couldn't just let him die. Not like that.

In a span of a moment, you decided against your life instincts. It wasn't usual for your kind to be kind to humans, much less saving them. But he deserved so much more than being another dead body in the sea among those ruthless pirates. You swam up to him until your bodies collided, flesh against flesh. He looked vulnerable and fragile now with his eyes clothes, body heavy as the sea pulled him down. You filled your lungs with oxygen and pressed your mouth against his, forcing his lips open so you could exhale the sweet air into his screaming lungs.

A kiss of the Sea.

When Prince Brian awakened he didn’t know where he was and how he got there.

Prying his eyes open he could see sand and palm trees, faintly he heard the murmurs of the sea. It didn’t take too much time to figure out that he was washed up to a beach after he fell into the water. With that realization, memories came back to him about the storm, the pirates, the fight and… the girl! He certainly remembered a pure-looking girl with hair like the darkest night and eyes like coal that heat up the castle back home. He wondered what her came to be, whether she survived the shipwreck and he wished to know where the rest of his crew was. He remembered falling into the sea after the explosion but if he had survived, they had to be alive as well, right? They were probably out looking for him.

He sat up, head hurting from the sudden movement but as he looked up at the shore he immediately knew where he was.

Home.

Up there he saw the castle and away a bit there was their bay. He somehow got to the beach he used to play at as a child when he was miles and miles away fighting pirates. Just how long he had been out? How long the sea had carried him on its back? How was this even possible? He wondered but thanked every deity that he had gotten home safely, so he could keep his promise made to his mother.

A moment later a dark shadow moved behind a huge rock by the beach and the prince immediately sprang to his feet.

“Hey, wait! Yes, you, please...” he yelled at the stranger, voice pleading because he had this gut feeling that there was something very important there. When the shadow didn’t move, neither closer, nor farther away, he took tentative steps by the seaside to approach the rock. Just as he passed by the rock, he noticed a girl in the water, the same from the pirate ship with her warm eyes and dark locks, but there was something different about her. At first, his eyes fell upon the naked shoulders of her, her long hair spreading all around her on the surface of the water, then he realized that the most outstanding of it all was the blue of her skin, the gill opening on her neck and the scattered golden scales along her body.

“You… you are a mermaid,” he whispered in awe suddenly remembering all the tales his mother had told him. His miraculous appearance here also made more sense because of it.

“I just wanted to make sure you are alive,” she said in a dulcet voice as if it was natural. He was actually glad she stayed and not just because she was the first mermaid (apart from his own mother of course) he had the chance to meet. He was indeed grateful.

“Did you bring me all the way here?” he asked and she simply nodded, watching him curiously. Brian wondered whether she found him just as interesting as he found her. It wasn’t because she wasn’t human but because she acted like one. Even his mother told him that her kind was brought up by the ruthless sea itself, so they believed in kill or to be killed. Befriending and saving humans was something that went against their own ethical codex. In some tribes it even meant betrayal, yet she took the risk for him, so he felt immense gratitude.

“Thank you,” he told her, words genuine even though he wasn’t sure she understood what it meant for him and why he wanted to know more about her. “Do you oft–”

He wanted to know if she visited this shore regularly, whether they had a chance to meet again, whether she would be up for a talk but life had got in-between.

“Your Highness!” a royal guard hollered and the mermaid swam away with the sound of quick flacks on the sea’s surface following her.

The prince looked after her, at the wavy sea, yearning for something even his heart couldn’t name.

You tried your best to forget him, to not miss him but all in vain. Once you were back with your tribe, you told them about your capture, the fight and how you escaped. It was hard not to tell them about the handsome prince who was there too but it would have been a stupid move on your part telling them that you blessed him with the gift of Sea. Not all of them would have been so understanding.

It was a silly thing, wasn't it? Being so enamoured with someone despite barely knowing anything about them. All you knew was that he was kind-hearted and not disgusted by your type. From a human, it was more than enough.

So you caught yourself hanging around the beach more, his beach to be more precise. He liked to take early morning jogs there - you definitely did not stare - and late night walks. Most of the times he was alone, sometimes he was with a beautiful, elder lady, hair similar to his. You were sure she was his mother but the most surprising thing was that it felt as if she was the part of the ocean too. It was a fading feeling but it was there and for a moment you couldn't believe but could it been? That the legends about the mermaid who became human were true? It would have explained why he behaved so naturally around her and why his crew was prepared enough to not get affected by her song. Everything made much more sense like this and it only added to your growing fascination with him.

You wondered whether the Sea adored or cursed at him? The child of one that got away, one that turned away from the depth? He seemed to be fine on water, he seemed rather fond of it, spending so much time around it, so you were pretty certain he also felt that pull that bind you to your home. It was just another symptom of homesickness.

After a week or so, you saw the prince getting abroad again, proud as the Lieutenant on a new ship heading towards South. You followed them from a certain distant and watched him. You told yourself it was because you didn't want him to stumble upon your tribe but actually your heart yearned for something even you couldn't explain. Maybe you wanted those soft eyes on you again, his gentle touch and kind words. You really weren't sure.

But it seemed like the Sea listened to your untold prayers when a storm came, a powerful one as you felt it in your fibers, the waves crashing to every rock with a power so harsh you trembled. It gave you an excuse to step out of the shadows under the moonlight, when almost everyone was sleeping on the ship. You had seen the prince walk back and forth every night alone on the deck, so that day you waited for him.

You psted at him trying to get his attention when he indeed walked out from his cabin with a simple white shirt hanging from his wide-shouldered figure. He looked around confused then you let out a whisper again and he ran to the side of the ship looking down at the water, seeing you above the service.

"Oh so I was right about being followed!" He muttered but there was nothing negative in his voice only wonder. You didn't even expect him to but then he climbed over the fence after throwing down a rope ladder and he climbed down until his boots touched the surface of water.

"I didn't get your name last time," was the first thing he said and it's ridiculous.

"That's not what's important now," you argued as you held onto the ladder too to keep it up easier against the wild current. "There's a huge storm coming. You need to turn more West to not run into it."

That's it, that's what you wanted to tell him, it's time to go, you reminded yourself and let go off the rope but at his voice you turned back.

"Hey! Don't go," he whisper-yelled after you and he sounded desperate. You had never heard anyone talk to you like that. As if the mere thought of you leaving again had been painful for him. "Why are you helping us?"

"You helped me last time," you reasoned but the prince seemed both a bit doubtful and a bit hopeful.

"Is that it? Just this?"

His voice wasn't accusing but curious and it felt like as if he wanted it to be more. It made you smile.

"What else would be there?" You raised a brow playful and something similar reflected in his eyes too as he leaned closer, letting go of the rope with one hand. What a daring, reckless man he was!

"Don't you feel this pull?"

Oh the one like waves? The one that followed the moon? The gravity? That strange power that attracted you to him? Your smile was like a secret love song whispered to the Sea, yet he caught sight of it as you blushed under the milk honey coloured light.

"To the West. Don't forget, my Prince," you reminded him and swam away with your ever still heart beating crazily against your ribcage.

Of course, Brian listened to you. He had nothing to lose. The journey was a bit longer with that detour which meant a more cranky crew because of they ran out of food and rum sooner than expected. But at least everyone survived. Even like this, the ship was tossed around in the water by the waves that came from the darkened part on the ocean. He knew that if it hadn’t been for you, they would have gone straight to the danger zone. So he was grateful but also even more curious than before. You were more playful than he thought at first, but then again, you met on the rim of death, of course you weren't joking with him back then.

He still didn't know your name and he who had found so many treasures, who had fought so many pirates and enemies, he was determined to change that. So he lost more and more sleep in order to meet you. Because yes, he had caught sight of you some nights when the Moon was high in the sky and your tail shone in all colours of the rainbow. Then at some point, you stopped being shy and only watch the ship from afar, you swam closer and closer until he spent half of his nights sitting on that rope ladder talking to you.

Those midnight rendezvous became your favourite part of the days. Just to listen to him talk about his duties as the prince and lieutenant, his worries about his country, his dreams, places he wants to see. In exchange you told him about your life underwater, your sisters in the tribe and how peaceful the waters had been around here until the pirates came. It turned out you had a common enemy in those dirty men. Both of you wanted to get rid of them, so you offered your help. It was a pretty cool deal, though both of you knew it was just an excuse. The only setback was the danger itself but you had never been one to give into fear so easily. You wouldn't have been alone anyway. Spending time with the prince wasn't too bad either.

"So tomorrow?" you looked up at him one night knowing that the next day you would reach the Triangle of Cages, the bay of pirates where you were told not to be able to leave once you're inside. But you had the element of surprise with you and with your skills you could help the crew.

"Yeah. Tomorrow," the Prince sighed, looking up at the Moon. He had some kind of melancholy in his eyes and you could easily tell that he was worried. Nobody knew how many pirates would be there and he only had a little armada of three ships with around hundred of people. Pirates might have been uneducated and untrained but they were rough, had grown up on the Sea, so they were an enemy nobody should have underestimate.

"It's going to be okay," you told him even though you always hated these kind of cheap promises. It was a simple lie, because how could you know for sure what was going to happen? It was all in the hands of the Sea.

"But if it's not... I wanna give you something," he said, warmth swimming in his dark eyes as he took something out of his pocket. It was a bracelet made of little pearls, it was pretty. "My mother said it once belonged to the Sea. I want to return it," he said as he handed the accessory out for you.

"You want to give it to me?" you blinked at him surprised. You didn't expect him to be so sentimental.

"You're part of the Sea, aren't you?" He raised an eyebrow at you almost challengingly. You had a hard time suppressing a smile but in the meantime it was a situation so much more serious.

"You own a bit of it as well," just like from my heart.

The prince smiled down at you almost as if he knew what exactly you meant and he was gentle as he put the bracelet around your wrist, fingers drawing soft pattern onto the back of your hand as his fingers slipped off you. You immediately missed his warmth.

"I still don't know your name," he whispered which made you giggle. You pulled yourself upwards by the rope on his side and beckoned him closer with your index fingers. You looked him straight in the eyes as he leant closer, breath fanning over your lips as you whispered your name like a secret into the seam of his mouth.

At first he seemed a bit taken aback by your closeness but before you could have pulled back, playfully winking at him, he sneaked a hand behind your neck to keep you there. To hold you when his mouth slid over yours, chapped rum-flavoured lips tasting your salty ones. Your breath hitched before kissing him back, fingers slipping into his burgundy locks. You only pulled back when he almost lost his balance on the rope ladder and fell into the water with you. Both of your chuckles echoed in the night sky as the sea welcomed you back with wide arms, calm waves pulling you under. You waved before you swam under, hiding your blushed cheeks in the water.

By now, you were sure the Sea was just as enamoured with him as you were, you didn't worry about tomorrow.

Twice upon a time, a prince fell in love with a mermaid.

He never lost any more battles on the sea but he always yearned to be out there, under the stars, in her arms. He walked along the line marked with sea-washed wishes in the sand under his feet, never straying far. For once, you didn't have to take his heart because he offered willingly. He loved you more than the Sun and the Moon and all the stars, coming back to you whenever he could. So when this time his mother asked him: do you miss it? He didn't have to think of an answer, it was as sure as his heartbeat, deeply integrated in his system.

"I miss her as I would miss the air, constantly and solidly, always." He smiled but his smile was hopeful because you both knew that no matter how harsh the Sea was, it wasn't only a graveyard, it was also a cradle of your love. Of another love story of which word got around not just in the Kingdom but every wave of the ocean.

unposted WIPs

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the stories I’m working on and haven’t started posting yet! I’ve sorted them by fandom, but beyond that, they’re in no particular order.

[masterpost of posted/posting stories]

Sanders Sides

Dragonnapped

(Set in the medieval fantasy period of Faedell)

The capture of Prince Logan was a joint effort between pygmy dragons Virgil and Patton, so they share custody of him.

Roman doesn't understand why Logan doesn't want to be rescued.

~~~

Fairy Prince Roman

Art tag: #fpr art [Chrono Link]

Inspired by a prompt from @hiddendreamer67, and set in the modern version of Faedell.

Logan and Patton did not intend to trespass on pixie territory, nor to kidnap the crown prince, but somehow it happened anyway, and now they're in trouble.

~~~

Sanders Sides Soulmates

Inspired by this post by @fanartfunart​

In a world where soulmarks are many and varied, five young men seek to find their matches.

Okay, that's a lie; they're not all looking very hard. But they do all find each other and it's a big happy cute polycule.

ships: assorted other ships building up to DLAMP in the end

~~~

Abused Pet AU (still needs proper titles for the two stories in the AU)

Virgil, a mini, has lived all his life with an abusive owner. When he's finally rescued and placed in a loving home with Patton and his mini, Roman, Virgil doesn't know what to do or how to behave. It takes a long time, and therapy, for Patton and Roman to show Virgil that he really is safe, and that he won't be punished for being an individual with his own wants and desires.

~

Logan wants to be a psychiatrist. Unfortunately for him, he's a mini, and therefore, legally not a person. He can't get a high school degree, let alone graduate from college or become certified in psychology.

Luckily for Logan, his owner and best friend, Emile, supports him in this endeavor. Emile trains to be a psychiatrist specifically so that Logan can attend all his classes with him, and the two go on to become a great psychiatric team — even if Emile primarily talks in cartoon references.

~~~

Itsy Bitsy Spider Sides

It was a dream.

Virgil and Patton are spider-borrowers, who belong to Dee. Roman is a regular borrower, who belongs to Logan. Through some means or another, Virgil and Patton end up in Logan’s house instead of Dee’s, and they promptly adopt Roman because he has zero borrower skills and cannot climb things. Logan manages to negotiate that they can live in his house, eat his food, and adopt his Roman if he can study their spider abilities.

~~~

Switching Heights

Roman captured a borrower, and his behavior left something to be desired. So, his fairy godmother decided to teach him a lesson.

also it’s logince.

~~~

Sides in the Real World

Everything is going as normal… until it’s not.

Logan pops up to comment like he normally does, except this time, Thomas freaks out. When Logan summons Virgil to explain Thomas’ panic, Virgil also freaks out, because this is the real world and they’re not supposed to be there.

Now the Sides have to pretend to be normal human beings, instead of metaphysical representations of various aspects of one man’s personality.

~~~

Unnamed Logicality Fic (inside the CCAU)

The story of Logan and Patton's relationship, spanning from the third grade to a few years after they graduate college.

~~~

Dinner Guests (proper title still pending)

Emile Picani is best friends with Dee and Remus's son, Remy. So it's only reasonable that they invite Emile and his parents over for dinner one weekend so they can all get to know each other better. Only, they didn't think to ask… how many parents does Emile have? (Four. The answer is four.)

ships: LAMP, remceit

~~~

Unnamed Fic

(Set in Faedell, medieval fantasy time period)

Remy is the most magically powerful human to exist in the last century, and no-one, not even him, is fully aware of all he is capable of. He certainly didn’t expect to be able to cast a fairy spell, especially unintentionally!

~~~

Sanders Sides Crossover Story

Literally all of the Sanders Sides fics smashed together. We’re currently blaming SitRW Roman.

~~~~~~~

Brothers Apart Multiverse (Supernatural/Bowman of Wellwood)

A Lich in Faedell

What would happen if A Lich of Sense or Bothering Bowman took place in Faedell instead of Wellwood?

Well, for one thing, grabby human intruders will get slapped with a defensive curse rather than bitten.

~~~

John in Brothers Adopted

Jonathan Anthony Frederickson has been popping in and out of other dimensions long enough that he’s gotten fairly used to it. However, he’s never shown up in a world where he was less than four inches tall before. Nor can he recommend sleeping through a portal’s appearance — he’d really rather have his glasses and some regular clothes.

Giant pizza for breakfast is nice, though.

~~~~~~~

Good Omens

Baby Snakes

Crowley tries to play a prank on his angel. It backfires.

~~~~~~~

Not Fanfic

Tom and Reggie

Spaghetti Ropes 👅

This time, the Game is Reggie's idea. You can probably guess from the title what happens.

~~~~~

Humans and Aliens

Possessive

In English, the word "my" is used both possessively and relationally. In other languages, there is a separate word for each meaning. Misunderstandings arise.

~~~

Adrenaline 

In many parts of the galaxy, "Dren" is an illegal combat drug. Humans produce it naturally.

~~~

Tetris

There has been a major misunderstanding about humans, video games, and the precise meaning of the linked phrases “game over” and “you die.” Now an unfortunate alien has been issued a challenge which cannot be won, only prolonged, and it’s only a matter of time before the inevitable end.

~~~

Edible

It really is better not to ask the humans questions you’d rather not hear answered. This includes “How far does your omnivorism extend?”

~~~~~

Other

Seeing Double

(no names for the characters yet…)

Metamours who're identical twins

P met twins T1 and T2 separately, and mistook them for the same person. Which makes things complicated when the friendship turns romantic…

(This is NOT a love triangle; it ends with a polycule.)

~~~

Injustice (working title)

‘Borrowers as pets’ theme

Rich kid + borrower pet. The kid is trying to challenge his privilege and become a better person than his parents are raising him to be.

outline-ish thing

~~~

Paige Penn

Paige Penn, age 15, likes to write. Her two favorite characters are Justin and Nick, a pair of secret agents. One day, she finds herself transported into another world, where she is surprised to actually meet the duo. They, in turn, are just as surprised to meet their creator, and more than a little intimidated to discover that this teenager is capable of making things happen just by writing the events in a little notebook.

~~~

The Big Mermaid

A retelling of The Little Mermaid except it’s GT and also gay.

Ariel’s father absolutely loathes the humans, and has forbidden his daughter from going anywhere near them. But Ariel likes watching their ships, and she often sneaks out to do just that. One stormy night, a human is washed overboard, and Ariel rescues the poor, tiny, gilless creature, setting them safely on a cliff. When princex Erica regains consciousness, they will only vaguely remember a kind face and red hair.

Ariel, meanwhile, returns home with confusing feelings. She had long enjoyed watching the ships, but now, somehow, she finds herself drawn toward one human in particular. Ariel goes to her close friend and confidant, Ursula the octo-mer witch, who helps her with a plan to meet the human again and explore what exactly these feelings are.

The Facebook Flub (4/4)

Summary: When Emma accidentally sends a friend request to the wrong person, she doesn’t expect much to come of it. But maybe this accident is the best decision she’s ever made.

Rated T

Part 1: AO3 | Tumblr 

Part 2: AO3 | Tumblr

Part 3: AO3 | Tumblr

Part 4: AO3

A/N: This is it, folks! I've had so much fun writing this not so little story over the past few months, but it's time we bring things to a close. (Although I would be lying if I said I wasn't already considering revisiting this verse again in the future if that's something people are into because I'm such trash for these two.) A massive thank you to everyone for all the likes, comments, reblogs, kudos, etc. you've sent my way so far. The support has meant so much and motivated me to stick with this when I didn't always feel up to it. I so appreciate everything. 

Thanks to @ultraluckycatnd and @thejollyroger-writer for looking over this chapter! Also thank you to my lovely shipmates on Discord and Tumblr for being awesome friends and cheerleaders, you all are fantastic <3

London was cold.

It was the first thing Emma noticed when she exited the plane at Heathrow that afternoon. That, and she’d never seen an airport so busy in her entire life. Not that she expected one of the biggest airports in the world to be quiet and idle two days before Christmas, but the sight of the crowd surrounding her was a bit overwhelming as she tried to navigate her way to baggage claim and then to the waiting area Belle was to meet her at.  

Of course Emma had never met Killian’s sister-in-law before, but she’d seen enough pictures of the brunette on Facebook to pick her out in a crowd. Which is what she was attempting to do when she felt a tap on her shoulder.  

Startled, she let out a yelp and jumped. The strap of her bag fell off of her shoulder and it tumbled to the ground.

(Hopefully Killian reacted better to surprises than she did.)

Emma turned and saw a familiar looking woman smiling apologetically. “I’m so sorry! I tried calling your name, but I assume you couldn’t hear me over all the noise. I’m Belle.”

“It’s okay, really. You just caught me off guard a bit.” She leaned down to retrieve her bag from where it had fallen, then offered her hand to Belle. “Emma.”

Belle shook her hand, beaming. “Oh, I know. Liam and I have heard so much about you. We’re so glad you were able to come surprise him for Christmas.”

“Thank you so much for coming to meet me, and for being okay with all of this. I know you weren’t exactly expecting me to come hinder your plans at the last minute.”

“It’s no hindrance at all. I’m more than happy to have someone who means so much to Killian here with us. And I just know the kids are going to love you.”

“I’m so excited to meet them.”

Emma followed Belle out of the airport, fighting the urge to grab her arm and cling tight so she wouldn’t lose her in the maze of people. It was a relief when they reached Belle’s car in the parking lot. It was less of a relief when she attempted getting in the right hand seat the first time without thinking twice about it.

“You’re probably regretting associating with the American already.” Her cheeks burned as she walked around the car and took the correct seat.

Belle laughed as she sat down to her right. “It happens more than you think. Killian would probably never tell you this himself, but the first time he drove in the States on a trip with Liam a few years ago, he had no idea it was legal to turn right at a red light. He found out because so many people blew their horns at them when he would wait for the light to turn.”

She felt a bit horrible for laughing. American drivers were vicious on any given day. “I’ll remind myself to never let him drive in Boston if it can be helped.”

Seeing the way traffic operated in London was every bit as fascinating as Emma expected. Or maybe she just didn’t get out enough.

“I’m assuming Killian and Liam are working?” she asked as Belle drove. Killian hadn’t mentioned doing anything out of the ordinary today when they’d spoken on the phone last night. It had been so hard to keep her visit a secret from him since everything had been arranged a few days prior.

“Yes. It’s their last day until the first of January. I almost encouraged Liam to let them off since it’s already the twenty-third, but I figured him having Killian at the office would make it easier for me to pick you up without him finding out. I actually figured we’d go there for you to surprise him since it’s almost quitting time. That way you two can have the rest of the night to yourselves.”

Hearing that made Emma’s pulse do something she was convinced had to be borderline dangerous. She’d assumed Belle would take them to her and Liam’s house and give Killian an incentive to come over after work. But knowing she was potentially minutes away from seeing him, from throwing her arms around him and kissing him like she’d wanted to for weeks was almost overwhelming.

Belle glanced at her after a moment. “You’re being awfully quiet. Is everything alright?”

“Yeah, sorry. It’s just...I really can’t wait to see him. I figured it would be at least several more weeks before we could make it happen again.” She felt tears prick her eyes and laughed as she blinked them back. “You probably think I’m kind of ridiculous.”

“Of course not. It’s like I said earlier, Emma: I’m thrilled that Killian has someone who means so much to him, and that he clearly means as much to you in return.”

The corners of Emma’s mouth turned up. “Oh, he does. He really, really does.”  

The moments that followed went by in a haze as Belle parked the car and led Emma into an important-looking office building and onto an elevator that seemed to ascend at a snail’s pace. This was it, but she hadn’t expected to be so nervous. She resisted the urge to bite her nails while she waited for the light to flash on the button for whatever floor Belle was taking them to.

Finally, the elevator doors opened. Belle stepped out into a hallway and gestured for her to follow. It seemed to be a typical office space, all greys and whites in various tones with a few prints of ships hanging on the walls, but Emma was too focused on why they were there to pay much attention to their surroundings.

Belle approached a desk where a redhead sat typing away on a laptop. The woman glanced up and smiled when she saw them approaching. “Hi, Belle! I didn’t know you were coming by today. Would you like me to let Liam know you’re here? I expect they’ll be finishing up for the day soon.”

“Hello, Ariel. And no- well, yes, actually, but could you send a message to Killian first and see if he has a moment? I have a surprise for him.”

Ariel’s eyes shifted to Emma and a look of recognition crossed her face. “Oh! You’re the girl he’s been going on and on about for months! I remember you now from that picture he posted on your birthday when he went to see you.”

Emma didn’t have to ask to know which photo she referred to; it was the one Killian had taken of her in her excitement over the margherita pizza. She somehow hadn’t noticed he’d posted it until he’d gone back to London, and she’d missed him too much to be upset about it. Even if the photo was fairly embarrassing.

But embarrassing photos aside, she was more than ready to see Killian. She was finally in the same place with the man she loved again. He could post all the ridiculous pictures of her he wanted to and she didn’t think it would dampen her mood.

“I’ll see what he’s doing now,” Ariel continued, oblivious to Emma’s lack of response to her previous statement as she picked up her cell phone and typed out a brief message. There were only so many things Emma could focus on at once.

There was a ping when he responded to Ariel just moments later. “Okay! I told him you were here, Belle. He said to come on in his office.” She turned back to Emma, beaming. “I just know he’s going to be thrilled to see you.”

Even though she knew deep down that Ariel was right, Emma found herself second guessing the whole situation as Belle led her around a corner and down another hallway. Would Killian be annoyed that she’d flown over to see him and shown up at his office with no kind of warning? Her stomach churned at the thought. Maybe this wasn’t such a great idea after all.

But Belle didn’t give her a chance to reconsider the matter, stopping abruptly in front of a door with “K. Jones” embossed in the center. She knocked and his “Come in” was almost immediate. Hearing his voice in person rather than from a phone was almost enough to calm Emma’s nerves. Almost.

“I believe I’ll let you do the honors.” Belle gestured to the door, unaware of everything running through her mind.

Before she could second guess herself again, Emma opened the door and stepped inside the office. He sat in a chair behind a desk and had his back turned to her, going through what looked like a file cabinet.

“Give me just a moment to finish filing this paperwork and I’ll be done, love. Say, I’m not complaining, but what made you decide to come see me first? Is Liam in the doghouse?”

“I don’t think so.” Her voice came out a bit raspy and uneven.

Killian froze. He dropped the papers he’d been holding and spun around in his chair. She heard a sharp intake of breath and his eyes widened. Emma watched as he stared at her for a moment, likely wondering if what he saw was real. “Swan?”

“Hi,” she said sheepishly, a hesitant smile on her lips.

One moment he was in the desk chair, the next he was on his feet and kissing her for all she was worth. She swayed a bit from the sudden movement and fisted her hands in the fabric of his white button-down shirt, his hands cupping her face as he reminded her just what she’d been missing these past few weeks.

Emma broke the kiss to come up for air, both breathing heavily and Killian still wearing an expression of disbelief as he pulled her close.

“Swan, what- how are you here?”

“To make a long-ish story short, my friends were tired of hearing me talk about how much I missed you and decided to do something about it.”

Killian pressed another kiss to her cheek and laughed. “Bloody hell. Remind me to overnight your friends a Christmas gift.”  

She heard another laugh and they turned to see Belle standing in the doorway with Liam behind her, grins on both their faces. Emma’s face flushed red with embarrassment; she’d forgotten they weren’t alone.

“Oi, something we can help you two with?” Killian scowled, but she could still make out a hint of amusement in his voice.

“Aye.” Liam stepped around Belle and entered the room. “I’d like to meet the lass who’s somehow considerate enough to give my little brother a chance.”

Killian groaned. “Is there any point in me reminding you it’s younger?”

“Nope.”

Emma pulled away from Killian and offered her hand to Liam. He took it but then brought her in for a hug instead. The close contact was unexpected, but it was also a relief. She’d worried for a moment there over what Killian’s brother would think about her coming to visit so last minute, especially when they’d only been together a handful of months and had met under unusual circumstances. Any anxiety she’d held over this trip was quickly being diminished.

Killian pulled her back into his arms as they talked to Liam and Belle for a bit. They discussed the arrangements behind her surprise visit and upcoming plans for the holiday, but she only half listened while Killian nuzzled her ear and kept pressing his lips to her cheek, now unconcerned that they had an audience.

Emma loved getting to meet his family, and she looked forward to spending more time with Liam, Belle, and their kids over the next few days.

But she also loved finding herself pressed up against the front door of Killian’s apartment (flat, whatever) less than an hour later.

“Bloody hell,” he muttered against her neck between kisses. “I can’t believe you’re truly here, Swan.”

She just hummed; since it was about the only noise she could make when he found that one spot behind her ear. “So you...were...surprised, huh?” Damn him and his ability to make her forget how to breathe.

“You have no idea.” He pulled back and paused like he was taking her in, making sure she was really there with him. “I missed you so much, my love.” Emma loved the way the lines around his eyes crinkled when he smiled at her. She wanted to make him smile like that for the rest of her life.

The idea didn’t scare her nearly as much as it would have in the past.

“Even though I don’t store my coffee mugs at a forty-five degree angle and leave my laundry in a heap on the floor until the last minute?” she teased. He’d been slightly horrified to learn the latter during his last visit.

Killian faked a look of disgust and then laughed. “I can’t believe I’m really about to say this, but you can wreck my flat from the inside out this week and I won’t care just as long as you’re here with me.”

“Careful, Jones. That’s a tempting offer you’re making there.”

“Aye. I’m a glutton for punishment, it seems. Shall I give you a proper tour of the place so you’ll know what you’re getting into?”

“Eh,” she sighed, running her hands down his chest. “Maybe later. I’d really just like to see your room right now if I’m being honest.”

“Hmm. What kind of fool would I be to deny such a nice request?”

“A pretty big one.”

Needless to say, the tour was quickly forgotten about. They had too much lost time to make up for.

Emma woke the next morning feeling like she’d been hit by a ton of bricks. She rubbed at her eyes and sat up enough to get a look at the clock on Killian’s bedside table.

8:43. That explained a lot- it was still the middle of the night for her poor, jet-lagged body.

Groaning, she flopped back down onto the mattress, rolled over, and buried her face in his chest.

“Good morning, sunshine.” Emma didn’t have to glance up to know he was smirking at her.

“It’s not even four a.m. in Boston. I deserve, like, ten minutes to be grumpy.”

“Alright, then. I’ll be timing you. You’ve got about nine minutes and eleven seconds at your disposal.”

Emma sat up long enough to lightly whack his chest with the back of her hand. “Smart ass. You’re lucky you’re cute.”

“Would I be even cuter if I brought you breakfast and coffee in bed?” Killian asked.

He knew her too well. “For that, Jones, you’d be down right adorable.”

After pancakes and coffee (among other activities that made jet lag more bearable), they dressed for the day and went for a walk. Killian showed her around his neighborhood, which was fully immersed in Christmas preparations. They passed a group of carolers on the street and a family building a snowman in their yard. This prompted him to share every possible Frozen joke he could think of, to which she rolled her eyes at but still laughed. Emma was so ridiculously elated to be there spending the holiday with him, he could share every snowman pun in the book if he wanted to and it wouldn’t change things.  

They had been out for a while when snow began to fall. Emma shivered and pulled her thick coat tighter around her, thankful she’d thought to wear it instead of her leather one. What she’d seen of London was gorgeous, but she still stood by her first assessment of the city: it was freaking cold.

“What do you say we come in from the cold for a moment, Swan?” Killian asked. “There’s a cafe just up the road a bit with excellent cocoa and biscuits you might like.”

“You lead the way.”

The cafe was small and cozy, its warmth a welcome change from the bitter chill outside. Killian ordered them hot cocoa and shortbread cookies as promised and they took a table towards the back of the room.

Emma took a long sip of her drink, savoring the taste of the warm, rich chocolate. “So, tell me about this Christmas party. You said it’s at Liam and Belle’s?” They had mentioned something about it to her and Killian at his office the day before, but she’d been too distracted by him to pay much attention.

“Aye. It’s not a large get together, usually just us and a handful of friends. I should probably warn you that Will and Robin are coming.”

She paused, thinking back on a night several months prior. “Will- he’s the one I talked to the night of Liam’s birthday? The first time you called me?”

Killian rolled his eyes. “That would be Scarlet. Bloody wanker he can be. He teased me for weeks after about that, wanting to know who you were and how I’d become so far gone for a woman I’d never met.” His face flushed with color, and she knew it wasn’t because of the hot cocoa.

“I wonder what he’s going to say when said woman shows up at Liam and Belle’s with you tonight.”

He pursed his lips, considering the thought. “Well, my first instinct was to say that he’s going to love you as much as I do. But I’m not sure I truly like the idea of that now that I think about it.”

“Me neither,” Emma agreed. “I only have enough room for one British dork in my life as it is.”

“Hey! I resent that remark.” He tried to feign annoyance with a sour expression, but the hint of amusement in his voice gave him away.

She reached across the table and squeezed his hand. “That’s okay. Just between you and me, I think dorks are kind of hot.”

Killian’s answering smile only confirmed her statement. “And don’t you forget it, love.”

They arrived at Liam and Belle’s just before seven. Killian rang the doorbell, which was soon followed by the sound of squealing and several feet running in their direction.

The door swung open. Emma watched as Killian knelt and a little girl launched herself into his open arms. She had long dark curls that went in every direction possible and eyes that matched her uncle’s.

“Hello, Sophia. Where’s the rest of your crew?”

As if on cue, two more children appeared, a boy with similar features and another girl who shared Belle’s features and red-brown hair. There seemed to be a bit of a competition over Killian. Emma tried not to laugh while the three of them argued over which of them told her boyfriend about their day first and which one of them would get to sit next to him at the dinner table.

“Alright, that’s enough. There’s plenty of me to go around, eh?” Killian extracted himself from the tangle of limbs and stood. He placed a hand on the small of her back and beckoned her to step closer. “There’s someone special I’d like you three to meet.”

“Oh!” The boy spoke up and pointed at the two of them. “That’s right. Mum said you were bringing a girl.”

“Yes, well, your mum is usually right. Sophia, Jacob, and Lucy,” he said, pointing out the kids by birth order to her, “this is Emma.”

Admittedly, this was one of the moments she’d been most nervous about. Sure, she was close with Leo thanks to her being around well before his birth. But he was a toddler. Liam and Belle’s three were older and had a high opinion of their Uncle Killian. There was a chance the same could not be said of the stranger he’d just brought for them to meet.

“Um, hi,” Emma started. “It’s so nice to meet you all. Killian’s told me a lot about you.”

The kids were silent. Emma’s first instinct was to panic; had she somehow said something she shouldn’t have already?

Then the youngest girl, Lucy, spoke up. “You’re pretty. Do you like Moana?”

Okay, maybe this could be easier than she thought. “Thank you. And as a matter of fact, yes. I like Moana a lot.”

Lucy considered her response and nodded. Emma took this to be her seal of approval.

The kids led her and Killian inside, where Liam and Belle were already entertaining a few early guests. Soon, Emma was being led all over the house, first by the kids who wanted to give her the full tour, then by Killian as he introduced her to some of his friends and colleagues.

Meeting Will Scarlet was every bit as interesting and entertaining as she’d expected. The first thing he’d said when he’d noticed her was, “So, you’re the lass who’s made Jones light up like a Christmas tree!”

She couldn’t exactly object to that, especially when Killian’s face reddened just as he shot his friend a death stare.

“It’s okay, babe,” she whispered and stood on her toes to kiss his cheek when Will had his back turned to them. “Just between you and me, Mary Margaret told me after your last visit that she could tell you and I both were pretty far gone.” Emma wasn’t sure where the random term of endearment had come from. He had his fair share of names for her, ranging from “Swan” to “my love,” but this was the first instance she could remember addressing Killian by something other than his name.

If he noticed, however, he must have approved judging by his answering smile and how he kissed her back, not even caring when Will noticed and wolf-whistled at them.

Emma spent the evening getting to know Killian’s family and friends, being entertained by the three children, and eating her weight in the Christmas cookies Liam and Belle had made. (And earning confused looks from the kids every time she said “cookies” instead of “biscuits.” Some habits couldn’t be changed overnight.)

It was well after midnight by the time she and Killian arrived back at his apartment. Emma only had enough energy to trade her sweater and jeans for his faded Han Solo t-shirt before going straight to bed. She clearly needed more experience when it came to crossing time zones over the holidays.

The sound of Killian’s voice came far too early the next morning. “Rise and shine, Swan.”

Emma rolled over and snuggled into his side. “Mm. How long until we need to be ready to leave?” She and Killian were to have Christmas brunch with his family as Liam and Belle usually celebrated over dinner with her parents.

“A little over an hour. The restaurant isn’t far from here, so I assumed there was no need to wake you any earlier.”

“My hero.” She scooted up the mattress and pressed her lips to his. “Merry Christmas, Killian.”

“Merry Christmas, my love. I know I’ve said it multiple times since you arrived, but I’m so bloody thrilled to be here with you.” The look on his face when he said the words, eyes soft and smile bright, made Emma think Will hadn’t been too far off with the Christmas tree comment.

“Me too.” She kissed him again, this time trailing her lips across his neck and jawline. “Although I do kind of wish you’d woken me up earlier.”

“And why is that?”

“Because now I don’t have time to show you just how thrilled I am to be here.”

Killian was quiet for a moment. “Eh. Perhaps it will be alright if we’re a few minutes late.” A few minutes turned out to be well over twenty. They showed up to brunch red faced, Killian’s hair messier than usual and Emma adjusting the collar of her blouse to make sure that one spot on her neck wasn’t visible.

Liam raised his eyebrows at the two of them when they took their seats.

“Traffic,” Killian answered the question not asked as he picked up a menu, he and Emma both refusing to meet anyone’s gaze.

But of course eight-year-old Sophia was smarter than they gave her credit for. “What traffic, Uncle Killian? Your flat is only a few minutes from here.”

Neither he or Emma could think of anything to say until the waiter brought their drinks.

The rest of the day after brunch was spent like much of their time together, on Killian’s couch watching Netflix. She had chosen Jane the Virgin as their latest show to try a few weeks earlier. They were now about halfway into season two.

“I think this is a new record for us,” Emma told him. “I’ve been here almost two days, and we’re just now watching something.”

“Would this be an appropriate time for me to drop a cheesy pick up line and say you’re all the entertainment I really need?”

“That’s almost cute, but I’m pretty sure pick up lines aren’t all that necessary if you’re already dating the person you’re using them on.”

“I suppose you’re right, love. I’ll just have to save that one for the other women I’m trying to pursue.”  

She should have known he would have a response that like that ready. “Huh. In that case, I guess I need to keep my options open. Didn’t you say Will was single?”

“Bloody hell. I take it all back.”

It wasn’t until later that night when they had started getting ready for bed that Emma remembered the small box she’d tucked away in her suitcase just before leaving Boston. “Killian?”

He glanced up from the bathroom sink where he stood brushing his teeth. How she could still be so attracted to a man when he had toothpaste on his mouth and chin, she would never know. “Yes, love?”

She sat down on the bed and turned the box over in her hands while she waited for him to finish up. “So,” she began when he took a seat next to her, “I know we unofficially decided not to do gifts since it looked like we wouldn’t be seeing each other around Christmas. But I’d had this for a few weeks and was going to give it to you the next time you came to Boston. And since I ended up coming to see you first, I figured there was no point in waiting.”

Emma placed the box in Killian’s open hand. She watched as he removed the lid and held up the small silver object, his brow furrowing before realization set in. “Is this what I think it is?”

“Yeah. It’s for my place. I know it’s not much, but I thought it might be good for when you come visit and I’m working or something. You wouldn’t have to borrow my key or wait around for me to go out.”

Killian kissed her instead of responding. (He was good at that. And kissing in general.) He pulled her onto his lap and his hands went to her waist, holding her anchored against him as he chased her lips with his until she forgot how to breathe.

“I’m taking that as a good sign?” she panted when they were forced to come up for air.

“Bloody hell. This is incredible, love.”

She shrugged. “I mean, it wasn’t all that difficult. My landlord isn’t super picky or anything.”

“No, I meant the fact that you wanted to do this. It shows that you trust me and our relationship is significant to you. Which are things I knew anyway, but it means quite a lot to me that you’re willing to take a step like this, even if we are apart more often than not. So thank you, Swan. Truly.”

Emma didn’t think she’d ever be as adept at giving romantic speeches as him. “You’re welcome. So you’ll kiss me like that again if I get you a key to my car too?”

But sarcasm? Yeah, she had zero deficiencies there.

After Christmas, they had three days together before Emma’s flight back to Boston. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d gone so many days in a row without working, and her bank account would likely show the results of that when she returned home. But even if she had to work more and spend less on take out over the next few weeks, it was worth it.

Killian made it a point to ensure she got the full London tourist experience during her time left. This included visits to see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Millenium Bridge (she couldn’t not see something that had been featured in Guardians of the Galaxy), Abbey Road, Platform 9 ¾, and at least a dozen other sites she’d lost track of by the time the week ended.

“I have to admit, all this makes me feel like I’ve done a poor job at showing you around Boston so far,” she told Killian on her last night in the city. He had taken her to Covent Garden, where they’d wandered around a handful of shops and eaten dinner in one of the pubs where she had her first experience with fish and chips.

Of course he objected to her comment. “Our time together in Boston has been a bit more limited so far. I’ve seen what’s truly important,” he said, shooting her a wink. “Besides, that just gives us something to look forward to next time.”

Next time. Emma had no idea just when that next time would be, but just hearing him mention it lightened a weight on her shoulders she hadn’t realized was there. Maybe they would get to see each other again sooner than she’d anticipated.

It took longer than usual to say goodbye at the airport. Every time she thought they were ready to let each other go, one of them would duck back in for another kiss that would be longer than the last. It wasn’t until a random passerby called “Get a room, lovebirds!” that Emma knew she really did have to go.

With a reluctant sigh, she pulled her bag onto her shoulder. “I guess it’s time to get this show on the road.”

“You’ll let me know once you’ve returned home safely?” Killian asked.

“Of course. I love you.”

“And I you, Swan. So much.”

Emma only allowed herself to give his hand a squeeze before turning to leave. She’d never make it on the plane otherwise.

The distance between them felt more bearable in the weeks following her visit. The time difference and their conflicting schedules were still hindrances at times; that was a given considering the circumstances. But thankfully, the first of the year brought a bit more predictability to Killian’s work obligations, allowing their nightly calls and regular Netflix marathons to resume with a bit more ease.

She’d insisted they not do anything for Valentine’s Day; the whole concept had become a consumeristic trap, and didn’t they know each loved the other without gifts and celebrating?

This didn’t stop Killian from having a box of her favorite bear claws delivered to her office that afternoon, though. And maybe she’d arranged for him to receive an apple pie at work she thought was comparable to Mary Margaret’s.

(Killian made the comment afterward that food and Netflix had all but become honorary members of their relationship. It was hard to disagree with that.)

He surprised her in early March by announcing via FaceTime that he had another business meeting in Boston at the end of the month if she would be up for a visitor.

“I think that could be arranged,” she’d told him. “I’ll have to remember to restock on baking ingredients. We never got around to making cupcakes the last time you were here. You know damn well what I meant,” she added when his eyebrows shot up.

Killian’s third visit was shorter than the first two; he arrived on Thursday evening for a meeting on Friday and would be flying back to London on Monday morning. She didn’t dare complain, though. Two full days with him sounded incredible after over three months had passed since she’d left London.

Emma couldn’t help but notice that he seemed antsy that Friday morning. In between getting dressed and ready for his meeting, he paced around her apartment in circles, and was so distracted that he put on two different socks but didn’t notice until she pointed it out to him.

“Everything okay, babe?” She paused in the middle of her own morning routine and walked over to where he now paced back and forth across the kitchen.

“Of course, Swan. Why do you ask?” He answered his own question as he asked it by tapping his right foot anxiously.

“Don’t give me that, Killian. I’m starting to think I need to ask who you are and what you’ve done with my boyfriend.”

“Saying I’ve had too much caffeine this morning won’t suffice, will it?”

“Not a chance.” She considered the brief amount of information she’d heard about his and Liam’s efforts to bring their company to Boston. Apparently expanding a business was much more complicated than it sounded, and things were still in the beginning stages. “Are you worried about this meeting?”

“Aye,” he admitted. “There’s just a lot we have to cover today- nothing bad, per se. I just know it’s going to be complicated and will take a lot of time to sort out.”

It was times like this that made Emma feel grateful that she was her own boss most of the time. “Well, I don’t know much about how business deals go. But I do know you’re going to kick ass just like you do with everything else, and then after, you get to be stuck with me for the next day and a half. We can finally get around to making those cupcakes.” She let Killian make his own interpretation on what kind she referred to.

This got a smile out of him. “Thank you for the reminder, love. It’ll do me well to think on that if things become tedious.”

“Cupcakes do make everything better.”

The meeting went well from what she heard. Killian wasn’t too concerned with discussing it afterward, instead wanting to focus on the time they had left together. After a weekend full of cupcakes (of multiple kinds), she dropped him off at the airport with a reluctant goodbye and a promise that he’d try to visit again soon. After all, that thorough tour of Boston she’d wanted to give him still had yet to happen.

But over the next two or three weeks, Emma picked up on a subtle yet noticeable shift in him. Their conversations and time spent together still happened with the same frequency, but he seemed more distant, only wanting to talk about what happened during her days and barely glossing over his own. Other than brief mentions of his friends or family when he spent time with them, she had little knowledge of what else he was doing.

“It’s not like I expect a full account of every part of his life,” she told Elsa over the phone after a particularly limited conversation on his part. “I know he loves me and wouldn’t do anything hurtful behind my back, but I just feel like there’s something he’s not telling me. It seemed like he was only half paying attention to anything on the phone just now.”

“Have you discussed any of this with him?” Elsa asked.

“Well, no.” She felt slightly immature for it, but she’d wanted another person’s input to see if she was just overreacting or seeing something that wasn’t there.

“He needs to know how you’re feeling, Emma. I know you don’t need me to tell you how crucial communication is in relationships, especially in circumstances like yours. You don’t want this to go disregarded and create a rift between you two when you’ve already got an ocean doing that.”

Elsa was right: everything she told Emma was information she already knew. But it took hearing it from someone else to get the boost of courage she needed to finally confront the matter.

She called Killian back not five minutes after she’d hung up with Elsa. It was late in London, but she guessed he would still be awake based on the brief time that had passed since their earlier conversation.

“Swan? Everything alright?”

“What aren’t you telling me, Killian?”

“I- come again, love?”

“There’s something going on I know you aren’t being honest with me about. I’m not accusing you of anything or saying you’ve lied to me, but you’re holding something back.”

A pregnant pause passed between them. Emma quickly wondered if she’d made a mistake by bringing any of this up.

After a moment, Killian sighed reluctantly. “Aye, love. You’re right. I haven’t been entirely forthright with you as of late. The truth is, there’s been some development since that last meeting I had in Boston that I wasn’t sure I should mention just yet, although you’re causing me to realize that was a mistake on my part.”

She wasn’t sure whether this was what she’d expected to hear. What would be going on within his job that he would be hesitant to talk to her about?

“It’s about the company’s expansion,” he answered when she asked him as much. “The first time Liam mentioned it, I thought he was joking, but I’ve been proven wrong. He’s suggested that, should everything turn out as we’re hoping, I consider taking over the Boston office.”

“Would that mean…?” she trailed off, knowing the question didn’t have to be finished.

“Yes, it would require me to move. The only reason I hadn’t discussed it with you yet was on the chance something fell through.”

“Do you know what the chances would be of that happening?”

“Honestly, it’s doubtful. Nothing has been signed or set in stone just yet, but Liam and his colleagues from Boston have already made their decisions.”

Emma struggled to find words. Part of her had always hoped something like this could happen, she realized. She just hadn’t expected for it to happen so soon. “And what exactly is your decision? You’d be leaving a lot behind, Killian.”

“I know. My family and friends are here. But you’re not.”

She recalled him saying on his first visit to Boston that he had little tying him down back at home. That still didn’t stop her from asking, “Are you really sure, Killian? I don’t want you to do something you regret on account of me.”

“Emma, I love you. You’re my best friend, you’ve brought me more happiness over the past year of knowing you than I knew was possible. Of course I like my life here in London, but I’ve given this a lot of thought, and I’m more than willing to take a chance on this if you are.”

If he were there in person, she would have thrown her arms around him and kissed him for all he was worth. “I think I would be crazy not to.”

Less than two weeks later, it was made official and papers were signed, making Killian the head executive for the Boston branch of Ship Shape. There was still a long road ahead of them- setting up the new offices and making his transatlantic move wouldn’t be quick processes- but it made little difference to Emma at the end of the day. They were getting closer to being in the same place, in the same time zone, and that was all either of them really cared about.

Killian’s birthday came and went in mid April without much fanfare. The legal and technical requirements he was trying to complete in order to move took up most of his time outside of work, and he seemed to be content without celebrating given the circumstances. Emma wasn’t thrilled considering he’d made such a big deal over her birthday when he visited, but he insisted it wasn’t worth being concerned about.

“Trust me, love, I’d much rather celebrate being on your side of the pond and knowing I don’t have to get back on a plane in three days.”

One of the biggest obstacles standing in the way was Killian finding an apartment in Boston. He’d looked at several buildings online and had gotten in touch with a few landlords to discuss technicalities, but all of them had fallen through for one reason or another.

Emma wasn’t eager to recommend her own apartment complex. The idea of having him so close was nice, but she couldn’t say the same for where she lived and was seriously considering other options herself once her lease ended in a few months. Still, it didn’t stop her from suggesting he stay with her until he found a place he was content with.

“There’s not a ton of space and I’m obviously not the neatest person in the world, but you at least wouldn’t have to wait until you found a place here to move.” It helped that he had already planned to sell his furniture rather than try to bring it overseas and could also avoid having to buy new things right away.

“You’re sure I wouldn’t be putting you out?”

“Of course not. As far as I’m concerned, the sooner we get you moved the better.”

And that was that. A few short weeks later, Killian flew out to Boston, bringing his clothes and the handful of miscellaneous items he’d chosen not to sell or leave behind with Liam and Belle. Emma greeted him with a kiss that could only be described as PDA. Some moments were worth sacrificing her dignity for.

“Welcome home,” she told him in between kisses. His face lit up and made her heart do that thing it always did around him that she still wasn’t sure was normal.

“Swan, I think that’s my favorite thing you’ve ever said to me.”

Rooming with Killian came with a new sense of ease and contentment. It was the first time they’d ever been in the same place without a deadline when one of them would have to leave. That wasn’t to say things were always smooth sailing. She would leave her wet towels on the bathroom floor or he would want her TV remotes ordered by height on the coffee table and one of them would be annoyed at the other for it. But these adjustments came easier for them over time, so much so that Emma had all but forgotten he was still technically looking for his own place.

They discussed it one night after work when he’d been in Boston about a month or so. Killian had been to look at yet another apartment during his lunch break that afternoon with no success. Something always fell through with each he considered: the landlord wanted more per month than was sensible, he would discover maintenance issues with the building after doing further research, disputes with a lease.

“You could just stay here. If you wanted to,” Emma quickly added at the surprised look on his face. “I mean, I know this building isn’t the nicest and it might seem like too soon for me to be making suggestions like that, but you know I love you and things are good so far and- what’s so funny?” She felt equally amused and annoyed when he started laughing.

“Love, do you really think I wouldn’t want to live with you?”

“I dunno. My bookshelves aren’t organized and Pop Tarts make up, like, seventy-five percent of my diet, and I know how you feel about that.”

He considered this idea and then shrugged. “I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but Pop Tarts could make up eighty percent of your diet and I’d still consider it the utmost privilege to live with you.

“Oh, great. Because I was definitely underestimating with only seventy-five percent.”

Things continued to fall into place with ease. The Boston headquarters of Ship Shape was soon open for business and Killian thrived in his position, just as Emma knew he would. He quickly grew accustomed to the city and fit in well within her family and friend groups, David soon becoming his biggest fan. (“I’m starting to wonder if you love him more than me,” she’d joked with Killian one night after they’d gone to a Red Sox game with him and Mary Margaret.)

Liam and Belle brought the kids to visit over the summer. They had a great time exploring the city as a family, and Emma got to know Killian’s nieces and nephew much better on the few instances they allowed their parents some time to themselves. It was hard for Emma not to imagine what their future looked like seeing Killian care for and entertain the three of them so effortlessly. She was nowhere near ready to consider becoming three instead of two, but the idea didn’t terrify her the way it would have at one time. It actually made her smile instead.

The lease on the apartment ran out in August. Emma knew as soon as she got the notice that they wouldn’t be renewing it. After all, she had planned to consider other options before she’d even thought about asking Killian to move in.

It took several weeks of searching to find a new place, but they soon found an apartment they were more than happy with and moved in early autumn, not long after their first official dating anniversary.

Emma was convinced things couldn’t get any better than they already were. And then they did.

She came home from work one afternoon to find Killian sitting at the kitchen table picking at his nails. He stood when he noticed her enter the room. “Hello, love.”

“Hey. How did the presentation go today?” She’d long since come to accept that she would never make sense of half the things Killian’s company did, but she tried to be supportive and keep up with his current agenda regardless.

“Quite well if I do say so myself. I’m assuming there’s one less bail jumper on the streets of Boston today?”

“You’d assume correctly.” She leaned up to kiss him before depositing her things on the table and walked over to the fridge. “I’m starving. Anything specific you want for dinner?”

“I thought perhaps we might go out tonight.” She saw him type out something on his phone just before hers vibrated from her purse.

“Oh? What’s the occasion?” They had been making more of an effort to cook together since he’d moved in with her. Going out for a meal seemed odd without pretext.

“Check your phone first.”

“Huh?” He was only confusing her more.

“Love, I simply think you should consider checking your phone before doing anything else.”

Both annoyed and apprehensive at his behavior, she did as Killian suggested and saw a notification from Facebook Messenger. “New message from Killian Jones- what is this?”

“Just please read the message, Swan.”

Emma opened the app. The words on the screen were anything but what she expected.

Hey. Sorry if this seems weird, but I was wondering if you would marry me?  

She looked up and gasped at seeing him on his knee beside her, holding up a ring box. “I know it’s unconventional, but so is the way we met. I thought I’d take a page out of your book since that worked out so well. What do you say, Swan?”

Emma knocked him over in her attempt to kiss him and they ended up in a tangled heap on the ground.  

They had chocolate cupcakes at the wedding.

Would I choose you? | 04

Characters: Jimin x Reader

Word count: 5.6K

Synopsis:  Every year the graduating class of International Academy for Superheroes and Sidekicks are allocated to their future partner. They will work with their partner for the rest of their working lives.

Jimin, the star of your academy and picked as the favourite to succeed in life, is not pleased when he is allocated to you, the school loser.

Superhero!au.

Notes:  My purpose in writing fics is to get to the point where feelings start to bloom. Keep your eyes wide open folks because feelings are starting to sneak in for our characters O.o

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Things go really well between you and Jimin after that distress call. It turns out that when he’s not ignoring you and furious over a failed mission, Jimin is a competent, capable hero and just a fun guy to be around in general. The two of you have an endless supply of distress calls and with each new call you are improving. You learn how to work with each other, and you learn how to handle the numerous situations a hero duo is expected to lend aid in. Jimin hasn’t brought up the dinner debacle since it happened but it seems the two of you are fine to leave it behind. You had been hurt but you hadn’t given Jimin a reason to trust you. He trusts you now and you’ve accepted each other as partners and that’s all that matters.

It’s not just as heroes that you find the two of you are getting along better in either. As a roommate, Jimin is wonderful! He sometimes cooks dinner for you, and he’s always happy to hang and watch a movie with you, and sometimes he will pick up food for whatever the latest injured critter you decide to harbor is on his trips to the grocery store. He even admits one night over dinner that he finds it charming the way you can’t leave any creature alone without trying to help. That admission has you blushing and smiling for far longer than you care to admit.

You can’t help but feel that things are going really well for you- the alley cat who wouldn’t stop swearing at you has warmed up to you as well. He’ll accept the food you leave out for him and sometimes he’ll come in through the window and nap on the little cat bed you secretly purchased for him. Val’s babies grow stronger every day and Ratbert will occasionally come to visit (though he keeps his family far from the clutches of the alley cat and they all have apparently settled in a new building a few blocks down). You’re happy.

The same cannot be said for Jimin, unfortunately. Because while you are content to leave behind the dinner debacle and pretend it never happened, he is not. Each new day his harsh words and desire to dismiss you as a worthy partner haunt him, especially since with each new day you prove your worthiness anew. You’re almost always exactly where he needs you (apart from the odd mess up since you are only human), you’re supportive and when things get hard or scary or difficult you’re right there with him to help him find a solution. You do sweet things like make him breakfast and you hum songs under your breath as you clean the living room and you’re always sneaking things you think he might like into the trolley when you think he’s not looking. It’s no one’s fault but his own- he let his own fears and insecurities and other people’s opinion of you distort his view until he missed what was right in front of his nose. A compassionate, determined individual and probably the only person he’s ever met who works harder than him. The question of how to begin to apologise for his earlier behaviour hovers over him like a dark cloud.

The conviction that he needs to do something to make it up to you solidifies the first time the two of you make it into the newspaper. You both successfully take down some bank robbers in the area. The photographer requests that Jimin move closer. As he slides his arm around your waist and steps in close, you offer him a tiny, private smile. He doesn’t know what about that smile sticks with him, but something about it makes him realise he can no longer avoid apologising because somewhere along the line the two of you had become friends and trusting partners.

It is while he is training at headquarters one day that he stumbles upon something- or rather, someone who can help him apologise. He strolls through the now-familiar winding corridors of the government-funded facility, fresh from a sparring session with a former classmate and he collides with none other than Kim Seokjin.

The only sidekick who rivalled your infamy at the academy was the man who now stands before Jimin. The two of you had had a bit of a reputation amongst the heroes- everyone dreaded being allocated to either of you. It had been a running joke amongst his classmates whenever something bad happened to say something along the lines of “Hey, it could be worse- you could be allocated to one of those two.”. And while Jimin himself had never participated in such disrespectful jokes, he had heard them and that is why he knows you and Kim Seokjin are thick as thieves. Seokjin offers Jimin an uncomfortably bright smile.

“Park Jimin, fancy seeing you here.” He says cheerfully. “How’s (Y/N)? I’ve been meaning to stop by and have lunch with her.”

Jimin rubs awkwardly at the back of his neck- Seokjin is just tall enough that he must tilt his head slightly to make eye contact and it’s not a great feeling.

“She’s well. Actually, this is great timing, because there’s been something I’ve been meaning to ask you about.” Jimin admits. Will Seokjin be mad when he leans of how Jimin treated you? Then again, you have probably already told him if you are as good friends with him as you have seem. Either way, Jimin tenses just slightly, prepared to catch a punch from the taller man if necessary.

“No problem. What do you need to ask, merman?” Seokjin questions cheerily. Jimin shoots him a look to signal the nickname is unwelcome but he ignores it like he seems to do with most things in his life. “Who rained on your parade?”

Jimin frowns. 

“I... well...” he says slowly. He hesitates, mentally attempting to calculate the likelihood that he’s about to get slapped. Seokjin seems friendly enough.

“Is it about that whole dinner thing?” He asks suddenly. “And how you ignored her for a week after your first mission?”

“Wow she really tells you everything doesn’t she?” Jimin responds, equal parts nervous and impressed. Seokjin nods.

“If it makes you feel any better, I think one of her super powers is an inability to hold grudges. She doesn’t even hold grudges against our childhood bullies.”

“That makes me feel worse, oddly enough.” Jimin confesses sadly. Seokjin smiles sympathetically.

“I know the feeling. Kinda like you just punched Snow White in the face for being sweet enough to offer you some delicious baked apple pie while she cleans your house for you. It’s the whole Disney princess vibe she has going on- that’s her other super power. Tugging on your heartstrings like a wounded puppy.” He tells Jimin solemnly. “My guess is you want to know how to apologise?”

Jimin nods eagerly.

“I’m just not sure how to make it up to her, I guess.” He admits. “Can you help me, Seokjin?”

“First things first, call me Jin.” Jin tells him, clapping a warm hand on Jimin’s shoulder. “Second of all, I am a master of apologies.”

“That doesn’t sound like a good thing to be a master of-“ Jimin protests and the thought crosses his mind that maybe this isn’t such a good idea.

“Just trust me, Ariel. I got this sorted.” Jin cuts him off.

++

Jin does not have it sorted.

“Are you sure she likes these sorts of things? She doesn’t seem like the type to be big on video games.” Jimin asks hesitantly, setting down the bag of merchandise and games that Jin had coerced him into buying.

“Of course she is,” Jin tells him dismissively, reaching into the bag and pulling out one of the games. “She wouldn’t have the console if she wasn’t right? Besides, I’ve known her since we were kids, you can trust me on her likes and dislikes.” Jin selects one of the games and walks over to the console, popping it in. “She also likes chocolate cake- I’ve bought the ingredients if you want to get started.” He settles onto the couch and waves in the general direction of the grocery bags he had set on the counter. Jimin frowns- he can’t shake the niggling feeling that Jin is taking advantage of him.

“Can’t you just make one with your powers?” Jimin interrogates. Jin yawns, stretching widely.

“I’ve had a long day, see, and my powers aren’t as good when I’m tired. The cake might not come out well.” He tells Jimin over the startup music. Jimin sighs and rolls up his sleeves, pulling out his phone to consult a recipe.

This is how you find the two of them when you walk in an hour later.

“You’re eating it all!” Jimin protests as Jin practically spoons batter into his mouth.

“I’m just taste testing! I have to make sure it’s exactly to her tastes-“

“I feel like you were lying and you just wanted me to make you dinner! I distinctly remember her saying she likes fruity cakes- this is almost pure chocolate-”

“Jimin?” You call curiously. Both Jimin and Jin freeze. Jimin is coated in cocoa and flour and frantically wrestling Jin for a wooden spoon dripping with cake batter. Jin attempts to surreptitiously wipe away the icing and cake batter smeared across his cheeks. A game you’ve never heard of plays music in the background on the console he convinced your parents to buy for you for your graduation present. The console in question has sat untouched up until this point. “What’s going on here?”

Beneath the copious amount of flour and cocoa, Jimin flushes bright red and Jin takes the opportunity to shove the whole wooden spoon in his mouth.

“I… I was trying to do something nice for you.” He confesses, almost sweetly. Jin nods his support but does not remove the wooden spoon from his mouth. You raise an eyebrow at Jin and he pales. He recognises the face- it’s your ‘get of my house now and stop eating my food or I’ll send a lion after you’ face. You can thank Jin’s lack of boundaries throughout your childhood for the development of such a specific expression.

“I’ll just be taking my leave then. Good luck with the cake, Aquaman,” Jin says. He darts out of your shared apartment with a farewell salute and just like that you’re left alone with Jimin.

He still looks embarrassed, and you smile at him as you step forward and begin to help him shake the flour from his hair.

“Why were you trying to something nice for me?” You ask. “Not that I don’t appreciate it. And for the record, I do prefer cakes with fruit and I’m sorry Jin conned you into buying those games- he’s probably going to live on our couch with Hoseok for the next few months.”

Jimin chuckles, shaking flour off his forearms. He’ll probably have to vacuum the whole kitchen with the mess he’s made.

“I was trying to apologise.” He confesses. You pause in your adjustment of his fringe and meet his gaze.

“For what?” You ask, and your genuine puzzlement makes him feel a strange fondness. Jin wasn’t kidding about the not holding grudges thing.

“How I treated you, when we first moved in together. And that dinner where I…” He hesitates. “The things I said weren’t cool.” He confesses. “And you’ve been such a wonderful partner… And I really appreciate it.”

You hesitate, dropping your hand, before offering him a tentative, shy smile that causes an odd fluttering sensation to fill his chest.

“It’s ok.” You tell him, and you go to step away from him but he anchors you in place by reaching out and grasping your wrists with his hands. “You were stressed and we failed our first mission. I can’t say that I wouldn’t have reacted the same- it’s really ok.”

“It’s not.” He tells you firmly. He tilts his head slightly so that you are forced to look directly into his warm brown eyes. “It’s not ok- I was rude and misjudged you. I’m truly, truly sorry and I know it’s no justification but I acted like that because I was just afraid. Because so many people expect so much from me and I don’t deal well with failure. I took it out on you and I shouldn’t have. And you may have moved on but I haven’t, so let me have this apology.”

He doesn’t know what prompts his next confession, but the words come pouring forth anyway.

“I really admire you. You’re so kind and genuine. When you told me why you wanted to be a hero… I think it’s so amazing. You’re so genuine and you want to help people so much and next to you I feel so fake. I’m only in this profession because of my parents- how can I be a genuine hero like that?” He confesses. He still does not release your wrists nor your gaze. You wonder if he can see the flush that rises to your cheeks at his words. You’re genuinely at a loss for words.

“You’re not a fake.” You almost whisper. Jimin looks like he’s about to protest so you cut him off. “I’m serious. I’m an empath- I can sense fakes from a mile away. That’s not what I sense from you Jimin.” You tell him sincerely. “I sense a-“ You pause, hesitating. You’ve never admitted this out loud to anyone, but it was part of the reason you had been so smitten with Jimin at the academy. Confessing it is scarier than you thought it would be, but you plough forward regardless. “I sense this churning desire to do the right thing deep inside you. It’s warm and it always surrounds you no matter what you’re doing. It never goes away. Someone who wants to help others that much can’t be a fake. I know you’re the real deal, regardless of who your parents are or why you enrolled in the academy.”

The look Jimin gives you following your confession is loaded with a lot of emotions you don’t understand. You could read him, but you have a feeling you still wouldn’t understand the emotions that flicker across his face. Instead you watch as he finally settles on a warm smile that makes your heart flutter a lot more than you want to admit.

“Give me a second chance.” He begs softly.

“What do you mean?” You ask, confused. You’d already forgiven him ages ago.

“At dinner. I want a second chance to do that dinner properly, like I should have. To get to know you, my sidekick and my partner, instead of what I actually did.” He asks. “Let’s have a redo.”

His words bring a hesitant smile to your face.

“Sure.” You say.

The smile he offers you in return is blinding.

++

The two of you settle on a date later in the week for dinner, but it is not to be. The morning of, Jimin receives a call from his mother. You don’t know what it’s in regards to, but you know it is nothing good. Since moving in together, you have noticed that Jimin has a lot of fights with his parents, from mundane things like whether he’d called that day to more severe things like their disappointment with his lack of progress in his career. Overall they’d just given the impression that they were overbearing and put a lot of pressure on Jimin. It shows when he comes out of his bedroom with a stormy expression. You can practically feel the hurt and frustration pouring off him in waves. You don’t have to actively reach out with you empathy- you can sense the way his distress darkens the room.

“I’m going to have to cancel dinner tonight. I’m so sorry.” Jimin tells you, apologetic. It is a tense apology though- you can tell he barely holds back his temper. You shake your head.

“That’s fine- are you ok?” You question. He pauses, like he’s surprised by the line of questioning. Then he shakes his head.

“I… I was just on the phone with me mother and she…” His voice catches and he curls his hands into fists where they hang loosely at his side. “I don’t really want to talk about it. Sorry.” He says after a long pause where you get the impression he’s desperately trying to control his temper by taking slow, concentrated inhales.

“That’s ok.” You reassure him. “You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to.”

Jimin stares at you for a long, uncomfortable moment. It is like he is searching for something but you do not know what that something is. Finally, he takes a long, deep exhale.

“She just wants to meet with me to discuss our partnership. Don’t worry though- I’ll disregard anything she says. It just means we have to postpone our dinner, which sucks.” He says with a sigh, combing his fingers through his hair. You smile weakly.

“That’s fine. I can sort dinner for myself. I don’t mind rescheduling.” You say. Jimin gives you one last long look before sighing.

“I really am sorry.” He apologises once more, before hoisting his gym bag up on his shoulder. “Anyway, I have an appointment at headquarters for a health check- I’ll see you when I get back from dinner tonight, ok?”

You nod and watch him go. It doesn’t bother you to have the dinner postponed- you know it would probably cause a huge fight if he were to refuse his mother’s plans and go to dinner with you. It’s more that it bothers you that his mother hates you so. If Jimin has warmed up to you to such an extent that he’s started including cat food on his grocery list for the alley cat you’ve befriended even though it keeps trying to bite him, then you feel that all his mother has to do is make an effort to know you and she’ll change her mind.

Either way, you shake the discouraging thoughts from your head and proceed about your day. By the time it gets to early evening, around the time you were meant to have dinner with Jimin, your mood has cleared and you’re settled in for the night to watch some Netflix and then head to bed early- you have an all day training session at headquarters the next day and you’d rather not tire yourself out.

Alas, it is not to be- it seems the universe doesn’t want Jimin to go out for dinner at all, for right as you have settled down with a plate of dinner after feeding the numerous animals you’ve taken in for the night, your phone begins to trill with a distress call.

Not long after Jimin calls.

“I’ll meet you there?” He questions as you pull on your uniform.

“Yup.” You tell him quickly. You don’t comment on the way his voice trembles darkly. You suppose the dinner had not been going well. “I’ll meet you there. Remember not to engage without me or I’ll report you.” You scold as you slip on your watch and program the location of the distress call into it.

“No promises.” And the simmering anger in his voice makes you hesitate. Perhaps it is not the best idea to answer this distress call. However, Jimin hangs up before you can voice your concerns and you sigh.

The distress call in question seems to be a minor villain trying to make a name for themselves. You watch the carnage of the doomsday device from the rooftop of a nearby building as you wait for Jimin to arrive.

He arrives quietly beside you, watching the chaos below. You can’t read his face because of his helmet and when you reach out your empathy all you sense is a cold, dark, swirling sensation. You couldn’t name the emotion he’s feeling but if you had to try it would probably be close to a cold fury.

You don’t get a word out before he is launching himself off the side of the building. You are about to cry out in protest but a pair of ice handlebars materialize in front of him and he grips onto them, using them to lower him to the ground. With a sigh, you allow him to do whatever it is he thinks he’s doing while you evaluate the situation and decide the best course of action.

The doomsday device in question seems to be some sort of large vehicle designed to inflict structural damage to the buildings around it. An ominous ray gun is built into the top and you wouldn’t have the slightest clue what it does. Perhaps you could have managed some reconnaissance to evaluate the threat it poses had Jimin not leapt impulsively into action as he had, but you push down your frustration. He’s stressed and he’s upset and really the blame is on you for allowing him to come out despite the emotional turmoil you knew he was experiencing.

Instead you focus your attention to your main duty as a sidekick: Reducing the casualties. You do not need special powers to facilitate an evacuation of the area, and it had been one of the most fundamental pieces of training you had received when you were in the academy. Protect the civillians above all else had been the fundamental lesson drilled into you. You rush out onto the street through the fire escape, immediately evaluating who needs help. A young woman is injured but she seems able to walk. A lot of people have already fled in panic and the only ones remaining are those who are too injured or too scared to go on their own.

You start with the young woman.

“What’s your name?” You asks her, and she looks up at you. She is deathly pale and tears streak down her face. Taking stock of her injuries, nothing seems too severe. A laceration on her cheek. A scrape on her arm and potentially a sprained ankle.

“E… Emma.” She says softly, her voice trembling with tears. She looks puzzled that you are here to help. You smile as sweetly as you can and crouch down to your level. She’s only your age, perhaps a little younger.

“Well, Emma, I’m going to get you some help, ok?” You say warmly, and a fresh round of tears spills down her dirty, blood cheeks.

“You’re going to help me? But I-“ She begins, but you cut her off.

“The first thing I’m going to need you to do is stay calm, ok?” You tell her firmly. “I can’t help you if you lose your head, ok?”

She seems taken aback, but nods with determination in her eyes.

“Ok good,” You say, already looking around and deciding what step to take next. Perhaps if you can gather more civillians who are actually able to walk, they can help you transport Emma. Authorities are already on their way but they cannot enter the immediate danger zone until the villain threat is removed, as per protocol. That’s really all on Jimin to do. Ideally, he would have helped you evacuate the civs first and then engaged in combat like he does now, firing ice projectiles at the large metal machine, but he clearly isn’t thinking straight. Besides, it’s too late- he’s already engaged and preoccupied and the villain will work faster now that she knows there are heroes in the mix. He needs to stop the machine and restrain the villain. A glance in the direction of the carnage tells you that will not happen any time soon. “Emma, what I’m going to do is I’m going to help you walk. We’re going to try and see if we can find any others, but I don’t want to leave you alone. Do you think you can do that for me?” She looks like she very much can’t, but that is where your empathy comes in handy. You send out a wave of calmness towards her and then determination steels her gaze once more. She nods her head.

You loop an arm around her waist and she puts her arm around your shoulders as you help her to her feet.

It is slow-going, hobbling with this injured person, but you aren’t game enough to leave a civilian unattended with a doomsday device on a rampage barely a hundred metres from where she’s standing.

“Hydro,” You call into your comms device as the two of you hobble through the streets. If you can get her just a block away, you can probably leave her there and emergency personnel could begin administering first aid. “Update me on your status. Can you neutralise the threat?”

“Not yet,” Comes back Jimin’s static-y voice. “They’re putting up a big fight. Artemis I’m gonna need you here- there are civillians in the immediate vicinity and I need you to help them.”

You frown- you cannot take Emma with you but you can’t leave her there.

“I have something to tell you-” Emma says suddenly, eyes wide. You pause. 

“Hold on, ok? I just need to speak with my partner.” You quiet her before returning to speaking into your comms device. “I’m already clearing out the area. Maybe you should disengage and focus on bringing them to safety first?” You suggest to Jimin. Really, this sort of plan of approach should have been made before Jimin engaged. Perhaps you’d have more ability to evacuate civs if Jimin had been there to help. Neutralising the threat was meant to come secondary to removing all innocents from imminent danger, but Jimin in his anger had leapt straight into the ass-kicking portion of his job. You just hear static in the background- Jimin is too preoccupied to offer a response.

“Listen it’s really important that I- Over there!” Emma suddenly cries, interrupting herself with a startled cry and you look in the direction she’s wildly point in. It’s a young family- a woman desperately cradles her baby while her husband stands over her looking desperate and panicked. And then you realise the doomsday device is on a direct trajectory for them- it will run them over unless something is done.

“Hydro, red alert, red alert,” You cry. “The device is heading straight for a young family. You need to stop it! Disengage now, disengage now!”

“Affirmative! Taking action now!” Comes Jimin’s answer and you see an ice shield erupt in front of the machine. It is not enough though- it merely redirects the course slightly, but the ray gun is still pointing directly at the young family. You still don’t know what it does but you do not wait to find out.

You don’t think. You don’t plan. You drop Emma and race forward. You dive forward. Protect the civs is your mantra. The beam hits you in a concentrated ray.

The family remains untouched. They stare at you in shock. Then slowly it dawns on them what happened. You took the hit for them.

And then everything goes black. The last thing you are aware of is Jimin screeching your hero name in horror.

++

You wake up in a bed in the infirmary back at headquarters. You take stock of your injuries and realise you’re sporting of a lot of bruises and cuts that weren’t there before.

“You’re lucky,” you hear a voice call and you start violently. It’s just Jimin though, coming through the doorway with a bouquet of flowers in his arms. “It was a mind control beam. Not like a death ray or anything like that.”

You blink in confusion as you recall the events that lead to you waking up in the hospital bed. Your eyes knit together.

“A mind control beam?” You question. He nods, setting down the flowers in the table at your bedside. You can make out a card with Jin’s messy handwriting scrawled across it in their midst.

“Yup. Apparently she was trying to form an army to wreak chaos on the city or something,” He explains. “Which I suppose we would have known if I’d given us the time to evaluate the situation and do some recon.” The guilt is heavy in his voice. He settles into a chair beside you. He’s changed out of his super suit into some civilian clothes and he looks unfairly handsome. His hair is pushed back off his forehead from running his hands through it one too many times and his clothes fit him well. Will you ever be desensitized to his beauty? Probably not.

“So then… I was mind controlled?” You question. He grimaces but there’s something reserved and uneasy about it.

“Sort of. Apparently your refusal to do what anyone tells you to do is a very deep-rooted personality trait.” He tells you and there is a fond glint to his eyes as he recounts the story to you though it is diluted by the misery in his expression. “And so you put up a decent fight resisting it. Long enough for me to neutralise as many threats as I could. Uh… including the highly trained, combat ready soldier she had just hit with a mind control beam. Sorry. It wasn’t that gentle, taking you down.”

Well that would explain the bruises, then. Jimin had neutralised the threat- and while mind-controlled, you were probably the biggest threat. You nod, and Jimin raises his hand. You go eerily still as he pushes your hair off you face, revealing a large, purple bruise on your forehead.

“Never let me criticize your abilities again,” Jimin says, but his tone darkens with something. Perhaps guilt? “You can put up a fight when you want to. Anyway, once you were taken down and I knew it was a mind control beam I was able to focus on the important things pretty easily. And about the civillians...” He opens his mouth as if to say something but then he grimaces like he’s swallowed a lemon. “They’re all... They.... You see... They all came out fine.” He says, though he says it like the words pain him. Were you not still groggy with sleep and painkillers, you might have questioned him but as it is you miss his slight slip. “So everything worked out ok”

You nod awkwardly. Your hand is in a sling. You must have sprained your arm while fighting Jimin. His gaze darkens as he eyes your swollen wrist.

“I would tell you off for doing something as reckless as leaping in front of an unknown beam to protect a civ, but I feel like the blame lies with me.” He confesses. “I… I was off my game tonight.” He admits. “I leapt into things and acted recklessly and it got you and oth-” He aborts the sentence and clears his throat. “You got hurt and I’m sorry.”

The guilt pours off him so strongly you can sense it even without extending your empathy.

“I was just so… angry and hurt.” He admits. As much as you think it is important for Jimin to recognise what he could do better for his next mission, you are not a fan of the downward spiral you see him in.

“Jimin,” You say softly, and slowly. He lowers his gaze, shame painting his face.

“She called me useless.” He says in a low, broken voice. “My mother. She told me to get rid of you and when I refused she pointed out what a terrible hero I was. All the ways I’ve failed and all my shortcomings and she told me not to consider myself her son if that was how I was going to continue to perform.”

You are speechless as Jimin continues recounting the diner he’d had.

“And so when we got the distress call I was so determined to prove her wrong. But all I managed to do was screw up the mission and beat up my sidekick. I’m so sorry, (Y/N).” He cries. His voice cracks on the ‘sorry’ and so does your heart.

“Jimin!” You call urgently, reaching out with your uninjured arm to cup his face and force him to look straight into your eyes. He is surprised at the sudden movement and just stares dumbly at you. “Don’t beat yourself up. First of all, you’re an awesome hero and your mum is just trying to guilt you into doing what she wants you to do. Second of all, yeah, maybe today was a bust, but we’re only humans. Gifted or not, we’re gonna screw up every now and then. We have limits. Besides, I’m just as much to blame. I didn’t stop you from answering the call when I knew you weren’t in any state to handle it. We’ll just learn, Jimin. That’s why we start small. We’re working our way to the top in little steps, but we’re gonna get to the top. I can feel it in my bones, ok?”

For a second, he just stares at you, confused, and then his whole expression softens.

“You’re really something, you know that?” He says warmly. You grin.

Something in the air shifts between the two of you. You don’t know what causes it but suddenly the space that hovers between your faces is warm and tight. Why did you pull his face so close to yours? It’s suddenly hard to breath through the unnamed tension that thickens the air.

“Jimin,” You say slowly, as the smile slowly slides off your face. You don’t know what you planned to say next, because your attention is captured by his mouth. His lips are so smooth and soft looking. You like it best when they are curved upward in a smile, the kind that makes his eyes scrunch as they twinkle with delight. Currently they are pursed into a slight frown but the plush curve to them is still distracting. And you’re so focused on his lips that you miss the way that his gaze flickers downwards as well, anchoring onto your mouth.

And then he is abruptly pulling away, clearing his throat awkwardly and flushing bright head.

“Anyway,” He says, a bit more forcefully than the situation calls for. “Let’s get you home, ok? I’ll buy us some food on the way home to make up for my incompetence.”

You are too busy protesting his self-deprecation and so you don’t pick up on it on the journey home, but the flush never quite leaves Jimin’s cheeks.

The desire to kiss you never quite leaves him either.