#Leo one shot | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

desceros · 6 months

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Mr. LEON (think late 30's/early 40's) reuniting with his spouse after a long time away. It's sweet, it's silly, it's followed by absolutely nasty half-clothed, sweaty sex.

me, asks for rise leo prompts, instantly regrets it also i'm not saying this is a tactical!leo fic, but i'm also... not NOT saying it leonardo/reader, EXPLICIT, female reader, 2.6k; leo comes back and wants to smell like home again. filthy nasty smut, soft doki dokis, lame married people jokes, one (1) defiled couch

It’s been so long since you’ve seen him, you don’t think twice when you see the rustle of your curtains. Not when you’ve finally, finally trained your stupid heart into not thundering out of your chest when you see it, thinking he’s back when it’s just the breeze. Today, you hardly even glance at them as you continue watering your plants, unbothered, humming, unsuspecting.

It’s so, so typical of him to wait until now to come home.

“Boo!”

Your scream fills the apartment as you flail, pulse rocketing to the atmosphere in panic when you’re very suddenly not alone. Hands catch you mid-flinch, and it takes you a second to realize that your assailant is, in fact, perfectly safe and didn’t deserve the mighty swing of your watering can.

Except actually, yes he did, this little asshole—!

“Leo!” you wail, letting him gather you close and press him to his plastron. Your hands clutch at the edge of his keratin, face burrowing in his throat. “You fucking asshole, you scared the shit out of me!”

“Sorry, sweetheart. Couldn’t resist,” he says, his laughter still rolling at the crown of your head as one hand spreads into your lower back to press you close and the other cups your nape. “You just looked so cute, y’know? My adorable little wifey, wearing my shirt and humming in our living room.”

“Stop talking,” you mutter sulkily, wrapping your arms around his neck and swallowing the tears you feel burning at your eyes as happiness swells in your chest like a mighty wave. He always makes fun of you for crying when he comes home, and you’re already a little miffed.

Your ire dies as you feel him nuzzling behind your ear with his beak, his lungs expanding as he inhales your scent. He’d confessed to you once, a few years into your marriage, that this was his favorite part of coming home; more than the sex, more than the home-cooked meals, more than sleeping in the same bed two nights in a row. He caresses the line of your throat with his beak, stitching your natural perfume back into place in his mind, sinking into you because it’s not the walls around you that he calls home.

“…Missed you,” he murmurs, making you sigh as he brushes lovesick kisses to your shoulder.

“You were gone too long this time,” you tell him, lowering one arm to press a palm to his plastron when you feel his lips seeking more skin, letting him pull the neckline of his shirt away from your clavicle. “Thought you were the breeze, coming in.”

His mouth curves into something filthy at the dip of your throat, his hands finding your hips and giving them a squeeze. “Yeah? Funny. I plan on coming in something, all right.”

You laugh way too hard, a little mortified that after all these years you still find this clown funny at the lamest lines. Worse still is how he watches you do it, his face going stupid with naked fondness like making you laugh is the best thing he’s done all day.

“You are such an unfunny loser, oh my god,” you say, pressing your forehead to his.

“And yet you’re still laughing,” he says, his smile widening when you roll your eyes.

“I’ve been stockholmed,” you tell him, reaching up your hands to cup his beak and pull him into a kiss.

Leo has always been good with his mouth, in every way, all the years you’ve known him. His kisses are no exception; seconds into it you’re purring, the sweet friction of his mouth against yours warming you from the inside, parting on a soft sigh when a hand grips your nape and tilts you just so.

“I wanna fucking eat you alive,” he mumbles against your mouth, his tongue sliding against yours once, twice, three times before he sinks his teeth into your lower lip and tugs. You tremble, and you know he feels it as his hands go a little tighter. “Missed you.”

Your fingers find the tails of his mask, tangling in them and using them to pull his face away, just a little. He growls, but you ignore him easily. “Don’t you want to take a shower, baby? Get comfy while I cook you something to eat? You smell like work.”

“I know,” he says, his other hand sliding down to the cloth shorts that are barely visible beneath the hem of his shirt, his fingers gliding up the back to cup the curve of your ass. “And I wanna smell like you, now.”

…He gets like this, sometimes, when he comes home. Touchy. Possessive. You’ve always wondered if it has to do with how he doesn’t smell himself on you when he’s been gone, or if it’s because you start wearing his clothes like he’ll feel it wherever he is. The longer the separation, the worse he gets.

The worse he gets, the better it is.

“Yeah? You wanna smell like me?” you echo as you trail your touch along the red crescents prettying his face, playing into his turtle-brain, feeling your eyelids close as his fingers flutter on your skin. Oh, he wants it bad. “What do I smell like, handsome? I smell good?”

“So fucking good,” he groans, his huge hand releasing your nape to grip your jaw, pulling you into a kiss that’s wet and deep. It feels good, claws a mangled moan from your chest that has him mirroring the sound himself. He pulls his head back, pressing his thumb to the corner of your mouth and sliding it under your lower lip where you feel the slick mess of his kiss. “…Open,” he says, making your lip pucker under his touch.

You obey, watching his pupils dilate as they lock onto your mouth, then your tongue when you let it press against the pad of his thumb where he’s holding you open.

“Shit. You’re so hot,” he says, a wounded rumble that makes your lips curl into a coquettish smile before you wrap them around his thumb, sucking and lathing it with your tongue, pressing your teeth in and closing your eyes when you hear him moan.

“Not gonna smell much like me by staring at my mouth,” you tell him when you let him go, your hooded eyes meeting his as you smile.

“Fuck, I missed you,” he wheezes, and with three steps he’s got you splayed on your couch, the weight of him pinning you to the cushions while his mouth fucking devours you. All you can do is hold on, one hand tangling in his mask tails and the other clutching as his carapace, crushed and absolutely thrilled about it.

When he breaks the kiss to grip his hands in your shorts, pulling them down, you laugh, drawing his hungry gaze even as he doesn’t stop disrobing you.

“What?” he asks, mouth going just a little crooked in a smile of his own as you shake your head, staring at him adoringly.

“Just love you,” you tell him, shifting your legs to help him out a bit and biting down on a grin when you can finally spread them and slink your knees to either side of his hips. You slip one of your arms over your head to grip one of the throw pillows, your other trailing down your throat to entice. “C’mon, pretty boy. Let me see you drop.”

Leo maintains the stare as he straightens his spine, his hands going to his belt buckle to slide it out of place with a metal clink. The button is quick to follow, and when he unzips and slides his pants down just enough for his cloaca to glisten in the afternoon sunlight, you press your fingers to your mouth, tongue instinctively seeking contact.

“God, look at you,” you whine, your thighs rising to cup his hips and squeeze. “I wanna lick you. Come up here?”

He shakes his head, sliding two of his fingers into your open mouth and pressing on your tongue. “Later, baby. If you want a show, you’ve got, like, thirty seconds for it.”

Moaning, you soak his fingers with your spit, watching with hazy eyes as he brings them to his cloaca and slides in to the knuckle. He’s always rougher with himself than you are with him, even though he’s told you again and again he prefers it when you’re the one fingering him.

He makes pretty little gasping moans as he fingers himself hard, his arm flexing and drawing your hungry gaze. He’s gotten so god damned big over the years, making you feel small every time he does something that highlights the difference. It feels good, makes you feel kept, protected. So long as Leonardo Hamato draws breath, no harm will ever come to you, a promise he has the strength to keep.

“Fuck, fuck,” he grunts, eyes squeezing shut as the slick sounds of his fingers pumping in and out of himself get wetter. It’s a familiar sound that makes you ache, craving the thick cock you know is about to slide out like it’s air.

“You’re so fucking pretty, Leo,” you babble in praise, knowing he likes to hear it, that you like telling him. “Handsome as fuck. God, I can’t believe you’re mine, that you let me see you like this—”

“Shit,” he hisses, pulling his fingers out of you and pressing his cloaca to your cunt, his wet fingers gripping at your hips as he rubs your slick against his. “You can’t talk like that, baby, I’m gonna—”

He cuts himself off on a low groan, his hips rolling against yours and his tail pressing hard between your thighs to garner the friction. It feels so good, so fucking good, your skin burning hot with each messy glide of him against you. Your head rolls, fingers gripping in the pillow behind your head and back arching to try and writhe closer.

“Leo,” you keen, breath heaving when he releases his death grip on the back of the couch to plant his hand by your head, his back arching over you and blocking everything else out.

“Don’t come, don’t you dare come,” he hisses, lips curled into a bit of a snarl. “Not until I’m inside, understand?”

Eyes wet, you nod, choking back the shimmer on your skin that builds as he keeps rubbing cruelly. With one particularly good roll of his hip, you snatch a hand to his bicep, trembling. “Stop, stop—!”

He pauses, letting you claw away from the brink to obey. Sucking in a long breath, you open your eyes and see that he’s staring at you like he’s gone mad.

“Okay?” he asks, voice fucked out, and you nod, whining when he resumes rubbing his cloaca against you, your eyes falling shut and head lolling to the side as you start the burning process all over again.

“Feels so good, Leo,” you breathe, skin glowing when you feel him duck in close and glide his tongue up the side of your neck. You’re soaked all over with sweat and slick, every muscle in your body trembling from taut desire that’s just shy of too-much, leaving you delirious and stupid.

With a hitched breath, Leo reaches between you, fingers preparing you for the familiar penetration you want more than anything else. With a hiss, his body goes taut, his cock dropping and sliding inside like his katana into its sheath; like you were made for him, perfectly molded, expertly designed.

“God, fuck,” he wheezes, his forearms framing your face as he leans down and captures your mouth in a kiss that breaks on a low moan. He pumps his hips against yours slowly, shaking with each breath that has him bottoming out where he belongs. “You feel so—I missed you.”

Floating with pleasure, you cup his nape, wrapping your legs around him as best as you can to pull him deeper, needing to feel him in your throat. Your hands find the back of his head, sliding easily on his rough, sweat-slick skin, seeking his kiss and finding it. “Oh, Leo, love you, love you so much.”

He marries his mouth to yours as he fucks in in in, feeling a bit like he never pulls out for how full he leaves you. Every neuron in your body stands at attention, taking note of his weight crushing you, the smell of his salty skin, the taste of his tongue as it curls against your own.

“Look at me, look at me when you come, pretty girl,” he chokes, because he knows your body better than you do and can tell you’re close before you feel it. You open your eyes and meet his, untying his blue mask and letting it slide to your chest right as you feel your orgasm rising.

“Leo, gonna come,” you whimper, watching as he nods, one hand finding your cheek, his thumb tracing under your eyes where they’re wet.

“Let go, sweetheart. Let me feel it.”

Like you do with everything else, you obey and come. It’s a long, wrenching thing, the pleasure washing over you like waves of a mighty ocean as he keeps moving, prolonging it, intensifying it. On and on it goes, your body awash with ecstasy and Leo, always Leo, there to hold you and let you fall.

“Please,” you gasp, clenching at his carapace, begging him to meet you here in the glow. “Leo, please—”

His hand drops down to your throat, fingers ever so slightly curling around as his hips thrust a little harder, the wet sounds of your hips meeting loud in your ears now that you’re listening for it. It’s filthy, his mouth hanging open and eyes going wild as they gaze at you like you’re the best thing he’s ever seen.

With a wounded sound he comes, his forehead dropping to your shoulder and hand going a little too-tight on your throat as he fills you over and over again, each hot thread coating and claiming in equal measure. You let one hand grip the back of his wrist where he’s choking you, crushing him in harder as he groans and presses into you even further as he finishes, watching as the edges of your vision go a little hazy before he releases you and lets you suck in a gasp of air.

After a few moments of catching your breath, he picks up his head, his beak wrinkling a bit as he stretches his leg out with a hiss. “Gah, fuck, we’re getting too old for couch fucking. Made a fucking mess.”

“Never too old for couch fucking,” you rasp, causing his eyes to fall to where there’s a mark on your throat in the shape of his hand. He licks his lips, and you feel his cock give an interested twitch. “Oh? You gonna make good on that?”

“Too old for back-to-back marathon fucking,” he pouts, though he does arch his hips once in a good sport try that makes your skin light up a bit. “Gimme like, fifteen. I’ll eat you out while we wait, then we can do something about it.”

You raise an imperious eyebrow. “Fifteen minutes of you eating me out? You? Leonardo Hamato? Only fifteen? I can’t believe an imposter of my husband is here when I was so sure it was him.”

He grins, a boyish thing that makes him look younger and captures your heart all over again. “…Yeah, okay. Let’s be ambitious and say half an hour.”

You settle into the couch, waiting for his cock to retreat back into his cloaca and spending the meantime trailing your fingers along the back of his nape, sighing out in delight.

“…I missed you, too,” you tell him, watching as his face smooths out and every concern flies away like a butterfly startled by the breeze because he loves you so, so much and you know it. Then, realizing you hadn’t said it yet, “…Welcome home, Leo.”

“Yeah,” he echoes, bending down and nuzzling his beak against your temple, inhaling deeply with a smile. “I’m home.”

#tmnt #rise #my fic #ask tag #THERE WERE. SO MANY GOOD OPTIONS. Y'ALL SO DELIVERED OH MY GOD. esp the one w the body shot You Know Who You Are #i'm going to write all of them tbh. but this one. oh my god. i could not resist the siren song of dilf leo.#anyway wow. thanks for helping me try to get leo out of my system. it didn't fucking work!!! but we tried and that's all that matters :)#leonardo/reader #rating: e

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formulas-bitch · 13 days

Text

Come back home 2 -

13K words

extra long one for you guys. let me know what you think, feedback or any suggestions are welcome

its been a few months since Emily left for her tour to Iraq, and the middle of the season of the formula 1 races for Charles.

As he was sitting in front of his computer, checking his emails, he found a familiar handwriting on the envelope. Excited, he opened the letter and began to read.

Emily's letter was full of news about her new life in Iraq. She described the desert landscape, the dusty roads, and the people she met. She told him about the challenges of her new job as first lieutenant, the long hours, and the intense training. But she also talked about the camaraderie she felt with her fellow soldiers, the sense of purpose and meaning she found in her work, and the incredible experiences she was having.

Charles was fascinated by her stories and couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and envy. He wished he could be there with her, sharing in her adventures, but he knew that he had his own path to follow. He was determined to make his sister and his family proud, even if it meant being far away from them.

As he read on, Emily mentioned that she had met some other soldiers who were also interested in motorsports. She wrote about how they would sometimes talk about the races together, swapping stories and sharing their enthusiasm. Even in the midst of a war zone, the love for speed and competition never died.

Charles was intrigued by this news. He wondered if perhaps he could somehow use his fame and connections in the racing world to support Emily and her fellow soldiers. He thought about sending care packages with racing gear or even arranging for a live feed of a race to be shown in their camp. But he also knew that he needed to tread carefully, as the last thing he wanted was to bring attention to her or her unit in a way that could potentially endanger them.

As he continued reading, Emily mentioned that she had heard about his recent successes on the track. She expressed admiration for his skill and dedication, and even joked about how she wished she could join him in the pits someday. This made Charles smile, knowing that even though they were separated by thousands of miles and a world of difference, they could still find common ground in their shared passion for motorsports.

Inspired by his sister's letter, Charles decided to take action. He reached out to his contacts in the racing community and arranged for a care package to be sent to Emily and her unit. The package was filled with official merchandise, autographed photos, and even a few pieces of racing gear. He included a personal note, expressing his love and support for her, and hoping that the package would bring a little bit of home to her while she was so far away.

A few weeks later, Charles received another letter from Emily. In it, she thanked him for the care package and told him how much it meant to her and her fellow soldiers. She described the joy they had shared when they opened it, imagining what it must have been like to be in the pits during a race or to meet their favorite drivers. She also mentioned that she had been thinking about his idea of finding a way to bring the races to them, and she was excited by the possibilities.

Charles was overjoyed to hear that his package had brought them so much happiness. He immediately began working on plans to make Emily's wish come true. He reached out to his contacts in the racing community again, explaining his sister's situation and the unique challenges they faced. To his surprise, several drivers and sponsors were eager to help, offering to donate their time and resources to make a live feed of a race possible.

After weeks of planning and coordination, they finally managed to set up a makeshift outdoor movie screen in Emily's camp. The soldiers gathered around, their faces lit up with excitement and anticipation. As the big day approached, Emily wrote to Charles, expressing her gratitude for his efforts and promising that they would make the most of the experience.

The day of the race finally arrived, and thanks to the generosity of the racing community, the soldiers were able to tune in to a live feed of the event. The sound of engines roaring filled the air as they watched their favorite drivers battle it out on the track. Despite the distance, Emily felt connected to the action, as if she were right there in the pit crew.

As the race progressed, the tension in the air was palpable. The soldiers cheered on their favorites, debated strategy, and shared stories of their own experiences in the racing world. Even the most seasoned soldiers seemed to be swept up in the excitement, forgetting, if only for a moment, the dangers that surrounded them.

Emily, unable to contain her enthusiasm, found herself constantly texting and calling her brother, sharing her thoughts and reactions to the race in real-time. Charles, equally enthused, responded with encouragement and shared anecdotes from his own racing career.

As the checkered flag waved, signaling the end of the race, the soldiers erupted in cheers. Even though they had been separated by thousands of miles, they had found a way to come together, if only for a brief moment, and share in the excitement of the sport they loved. Emily knew that the next day, they would be back to their duties, facing the dangers of their mission. But for now, they could forget about the world outside and simply enjoy the race.

She looked around at her fellow soldiers, their faces lit up with happiness, and felt a sense of pride and connection to them that she had never experienced before. She thought about her brother, Charles, and how his idea had brought them all together. Even though he was far away, she could feel his presence, his love and support for her and her fellow soldiers.

As they began to disperse, returning to their tents and duties, Emily couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness. She knew that tomorrow they would be back to the grind of their mission, facing the dangers that came with it. But for now, she would cherish this brief moment of happiness, this reminder of the life they had left behind.

She made her way over to the makeshift movie screen, where the sound system was still blaring with commentary about the race. A few soldiers lingered, discussing their favorite drivers and strategies, their voices filled with excitement and enthusiasm. Emily leaned against the screen, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, trying to memorize the feeling of this night.

It had been a long time since she had felt this alive, this connected to something beyond the confines of their camp. The sound of the engines, the thrill of the competition, it all reminded her of home, of the life she had left behind. And for just a moment, she could almost imagine herself back there, sitting in the stands, the warm sun on her face, her heart racing as the cars sped past.

A shadow fell across her, breaking her out of her reverie. She looked up to see one of the younger soldiers, his face flushed with excitement. "Hey, Emily, did you see that pass? That was insane!" He gestured animatedly, his words tumbling out in a rapid-fire mixture of awe and disbelief.

Emily nodded, her heart still racing from the race. "Yeah, that was something else. I can't believe he made that move." She paused, thinking about the drivers and their strategies, the way they battled for position around the track. "It's like they're a part of something bigger than themselves out there. They're pushing the limits of what's possible."

The young soldier, named Tom, smiled. "Yeah, you can feel it in the air, you know? It's like we're all a part of it too, just by being here, watching. Even though we're so far away, it's like we're still a part of the racing world."

Emily nodded in agreement, her gaze drifting back to the makeshift screen. "It's true. And I think that's what my brother was trying to do, you know? Create a connection, even if it was just for a little while."

The young soldier, Tom, looked thoughtful. "Yeah, I guess so. It's pretty cool that he thought of that. And even better that everyone else here seems to appreciate it." He gestured around at the camp, now beginning to quiet down as the soldiers returned to their duties.

Emily nodded, her gaze lingering on the makeshift screen. "It's just a shame we can't have more of this," she said wistfully. "I mean, it's nice that we can take a break and watch the races and all, but it's not the same as being there, you know? Being part of the action."

Tom shrugged. "I guess that's what we signed up for, right? Sacrifices and all that?" He paused, then added with a grin, "But hey, at least we get to watch the races!"

Emily laughed, feeling a little guilty for voicing her complaints. "Yeah, you're right. It's not all bad." She glanced back at the screen, the engines' roar still ringing in her ears. "Besides, it's not like we can just up and leave whenever we want. We've got a job to do."

The young soldier nodded solemnly. "That's for sure. But maybe one day, when this is all over, we'll get to go back and see the races in person. You know, like your brother always wanted."

Emily smiled at the thought, but it was tinged with sadness. She knew that for many of them, that day might never come. The war had already taken too much, and she feared it would continue to claim lives long after the final battle had been fought.

As they stood there, watching the race together, a part of her couldn't help but wonder if her brother's dream had been selfish. He had wanted so badly to bring a bit of joy and normalcy to their lives, but in doing so, had he failed to see the bigger picture? Had he underestimated the sacrifices that they, and countless others like them, would have to make?

Emily glanced over at Tom, his face lit up with excitement as a particularly daring move played out on the screen. She knew that he, like her, had left behind friends, family, and a life they could have only dreamed of. And for what? To fight a war that seemed to have no end in sight? To risk their lives for a cause that sometimes felt as distant and uncertain as the drivers on the screen?

But then again, maybe that was the point. Maybe it wasn't about the race or the glory or the cheering crowds. Maybe it was about finding something, anything, to hold onto when everything else felt so fleeting and fragile. It was about creating moments of normalcy and joy in the midst of the chaos, however brief they might be.

Emily looked at her friend, feeling a sudden surge of gratitude for his presence. They might not be at the track, but they were together, sharing this experience, however small it might seem. And maybe, just maybe, that was enough.

The world around them seemed to fade away as the race continued, the sound of gunfire and explosions replaced by the roar of the engines. Soldiers ducked for cover, returning fire as they moved, their training taking over as they fought to protect one another. Emily's heart raced, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps, but she forced herself to stay calm, to focus on the task at hand.

She glanced at her friend, Tom, crouched down beside her, his face etched with determination. She could see the fear in his eyes, but he refused to show it. They were a team, and they would fight together until the end. As they took cover behind a fallen tree, Emily caught a glimpse of movement out of the corner of her eye. She signaled to Tom, and together they flanked their position, guns at the ready.

The enemy soldiers were advancing quickly, using the cover of smoke to their advantage. Emily felt her heart pounding in her chest as she took aim, steadying her breath. She knew that every shot had to count. Tom nodded at her, and they both opened fire. The sound of gunfire filled the air as the two sides battled for control of the territory.

Emily ducked down behind a rock, reloading her weapon as quickly as she could. She glanced over at Tom, who was crouched down beside her, his face etched with determination. They had to hold their ground; they couldn't afford to give an inch. As she reloaded, she saw movement out of the corner of her eye and immediately knew that they were outnumbered.

"They're surrounding us!" she yelled to Tom. He nodded grimly, his eyes fixed on the advancing enemy soldiers. They couldn't stay here; they had to find a way to break through the encirclement. As they crawled away from their makeshift cover, bullets whizzed past them, throwing up clouds of dirt and debris.

Emily glanced around frantically, searching for any possible escape route. Ahead of them, she spotted a rusty old jeep parked beneath a cluster of trees. It was their only hope. "Tom, over there!" she shouted, pointing at the jeep. "We have to make a run for it!, tell the otto meet us there"

Tom nodded in agreement, his face etched with determination. They couldn't afford to waste any more time. With renewed strength, they sprinted toward the jeep, bullets whizzing past them. Emily felt the wind of a near-miss bullet on her cheek, but she didn't let it deter her. They had to make it.

As they neared the jeep, Emily glanced over her shoulder, hoping to see the enemy losing ground. But the soldiers were closing in fast, their numbers seemingly endless. She gritted her teeth and pushed herself harder, her lungs burning from the effort. Tom reached the jeep first, yanking open the door and gesturing for her to get in.

Emily climbed into the driver's seat just as Tom threw himself into the passenger seat beside her. She slammed the door shut and turned the key, the engine roaring to life. As she put the jeep in gear, she saw movement out of the corner of her eye. It was the others. They were running toward the jeep, their own gunfire muffled by the sound of their own panicked breathing.

Emily gunned the engine, the jeep leaping forward with a jolt. As they raced toward their friend, bullets rained down on them from all sides. The jeep swerved violently, tires spinning in the dirt as they careened out of control. Emily fought to regain control, her knuckles white from the force she was exerting on the steering wheel.

"They're gaining on us!" Tom yelled, his voice tense and panicked. Emily felt her heart sink. They had to shake the enemy off somehow. She glanced in the rearview mirror, trying to find an escape route, but there was nothing but trees and more soldiers. They were trapped.

She slammed on the brakes, causing the jeep to fishtail. The enemy soldiers, caught off guard, scattered. Emily took the opportunity to do a U-turn, racing back toward the encampment they had left behind. Tom leaned out of the window, firing wildly at the soldiers in their way. "We have to reach the camp!" he shouted, his words whipping away in the wind. "We have to warn them!"

Emily nodded, her knuckles white as she gripped the steering wheel. The jeep swerved and careened through the trees, narrowly avoiding collisions with obstacles in their path. As they neared the camp, she could see the soldiers had already overrun it. Burning structures and the sounds of gunfire filled the air. "They're already here," she whispered, dread filling her voice.

The jeep came to a skidding halt near what was left of the camp entrance. Emily and Tom exchanged a grim look before they leapt out, weapons at the ready. Bullets whizzed past them as they sprinted toward the command center, their boots sinking into the soft earth with each step. "Where are they?" Emily shouted over the chaos, her eyes darting around wildly for any sign of their team.

"This way!" Tom shouted, pointing toward a nearby hut. They dashed toward it, weaving in and out of the hail of bullets As they approache the hut, they could hear muffled voices coming from within. Emily signaled for Tom to cover her as she threw herself against the door, bursting into the hut.

The small structure was cramped with soldiers, all of them scrambling for cover. Emily spotted her team huddled together in the corner, their weapons drawn. "Over here!" she shouted, waving them over. The soldiers turned their attention to her, opening fire. Emily felt the impact of several bullets against her body, sending her flying back into the dirt. She winced in pain, struggling to breathe.

"Emily!" Tom shouted, rushing toward her. He knelt beside her, his hands trembling as he tried to stanch the bleeding. "We have to get out of here," he whispered, his voice shaking. "We can't stay here."

Emily forced herself to take a deep breath, wincing as pain shot through her chest. "No," she wheezed. "We can't leave them." She glanced around at her team, their faces pale and streaked with dirt and tears. "We have to fight back."

"But they've already taken over the camp," Tom protested. "How are we supposed to do that?"

Emily closed her eyes, trying to steady her breath. She could feel the warmth of his body against hers, his hands trembling as he tried to keep her alive. "We can't just give up," she whispered. "Not like this."

Tom didn't answer, his gaze fixed on the soldiers surrounding them. There had to be a way out. They just had to find it. As their breaths came in ragged gasps, they glanced around the hut, searching for any sign of an escape route.

Emily's eyes fell on a crate in the corner, piled high with ammunition and weapons. She motioned for her team to follow her as she crept over to it. Carefully, she began to distribute the weapons among them, making sure each person had at least one. As they armed themselves, they also took whatever extra ammunition they could find.

"Okay," Emily whispered, her voice barely audible above the gunfire. "We're going to make a run for it. We'll use the crate as cover, and try to reach that jeep." She gestured toward the vehicle, barely visible through the haze of smoke and dust. "Once we're in, we'll make a break for it."

The soldiers surrounding them paused for a moment, seemingly surprised by the team's unexpected plan. Tom took advantage of the distraction and threw a grenade at the soldiers, hoping to buy them some time. The explosion rocked the hut, sending debris and dirt flying everywhere. Screams filled the air as the soldiers scattered in panic.

"Now!" Emily shouted, grabbing one end of the crate. Her team members followed suit, each taking hold of an end as they began to drag it toward the jeep. Bullets whizzed past them, thudding into the wooden crate and sending splinters flying. They moved as quickly as they dared, ducking behind what cover they could find.

As they reached the jeep, Emily glanced back at the hut, her heart racing. The soldiers had already begun to regroup, their numbers swelling as more and more of them emerged from the smoke and dust. There was no time to lose. She turned to her team, her voice tight with urgency. "Get in the jeep! I'll cover you."

Tom and the others climbed into the vehicle, their hands shaking as they fumbled with the doors and the ignition. Emily took a deep breath, steadying herself before turning to face the approaching soldiers. She lifted her weapon, aiming at the center of the group as they charged toward her. Bullets whizzed past her ears, sending dirt and debris flying, but she remained steady, firing round after round at the oncoming threat.

As Emily continued to fight, she glanced over at the jeep, watching as it lurched forward, gaining speed. She knew that she couldn't hold off the soldiers for much longer. With a final burst of adrenaline, she sprinted toward the vehicle, leaping into the back seat just as another wave of bullets struck the ground where she had been standing only moments before.

The jeep sped away from the hut, leaving a trail of smoke and dust in its wake. Emily slumped forward in her seat, gripping the edge of the door frame as she tried to catch her breath. Tom, his face pale and streaked with dirt, reached over and put a hand on her shoulder. "We did it," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "We're getting out of here."

But even as they drove, they couldn't shake the feeling that they were being followed. Emily glanced in her rearview mirror, her heart racing as she saw a line of soldiers marching steadily behind them. "They're still after us," she said, her voice tense. "We need to lose them."

"I've got an idea," Tom replied, his hands tight on the dashboard. "Follow my lead." He reached for the jeep's radio and switched it on, then began to speak into the mic in their native language. "Hey, you! Yes, you, the soldiers back there. This is Alpha team, reporting in. We're fine, but we're being pursued by your boys. We could really use some backup."

Emily glanced at him, surprise etched on her face. "Are you sure that's a good idea?" she asked. "We don't know who we can trust."

Tom shrugged, his expression grim. "We have to try something. If we can get them to think we're part of their team, maybe they'll back off."

Emily hesitated for a moment, then nodded reluctantly. She keyed the mic herself. "Roger that, team. We need you to provide cover fire and extract us from the area. Over."

The jeep raced through the jungle, its engine growling as they wove in and out of the trees, trying to lose their pursuers. After several tense minutes, Emily glanced in her mirror and saw a group of soldiers break off from the main group, taking up positions behind rocks and trees. They began to fire on the soldiers chasing after them, creating a distraction that allowed Emily to veer sharply to the left and lose sight of them.

A moment later, the radio crackled to life. "Alpha team, this is command. We've heard your call for backup. Stand by for extraction. Repeat, stand by for extraction." Emily let out a sigh of relief, grateful that their ruse had worked. "Roger that, command. We're standing by," she replied, glancing at Tom and then back at the road.

The jeep continued to race through the jungle, the soldiers' shouts and gunfire growing fainter in the distance. As they drove, Emily couldn't shake the feeling that they were still being followed. She couldn't help but wonder who they could trust among their own team.

"Hey, Tom," she said, her voice tight with tension. "You really think we can trust them, after all that?"

He glanced over at her, his expression grim. "I don't know, Em. But we don't really have a choice, do we? They've got us in their sights, and they know where we're going."

Emily nodded, her grip tight on the steering wheel. She wished she could trust anyone in this mess. But with each passing moment, it seemed as if they were further from allies and closer to becoming enemy targets. "Maybe they'll back off once they think we're safe," she said, more to convince herself than anything else.

The jeep careened through the jungle, branches scratching at the sides of the vehicle like claws. They drove in silence for a while, the only sound the engine's roar and the rustle of leaves. Emily glanced at Tom, wondering if he was feeling as lost and uncertain as she was. His face was set in a grim expression, his eyes darting from side to side, scanning the jungle around them.

As they continued to drive, she could feel the weight of exhaustion pressing down on her. The blood loss from her injury was starting to take its toll, and she was having a hard time focusing on the road. She reached over to her belt and pulled out a small vial of painkillers, popping two of them into her mouth and chasing them down with a swig of water. The medicine kicked in almost instantly, bringing a welcome wave of relief.

Emily glanced at Tom, who was staring out the window, his expression unreadable. "You okay?" she asked, her voice hoarse from fatigue. He nodded, but she could tell he was lying. "We'll make it to the rendezvous point, Tom. We just need to keep going."

As they continued down the winding jungle road, Emily felt her grip on consciousness slipping. She couldn't remember the last time she'd slept, or if she'd even eaten anything since this whole mess started. The pain in her side throbbed with each bump in the road, making it difficult to focus on driving. She wished she could just close her eyes for a moment, but she knew she couldn't risk it.

Tom glanced over at her, concern etched into his features. "You doing okay, Em?" he asked, reaching out to touch her shoulder. She flinched at his touch, the pain in her side intensifying. "I can take over if you need to rest," he offered.

Emily forced a smile, her grip on the steering wheel tightening. "I'm fine, really. Just a little tired. But we can't stop now, not with them still after us." She paused, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. "Besides, you're not much of a driver anyway," she added with a weak laugh.

Tom laughed softly in response, his expression easing slightly. "Well, I'm not about to argue with that," he said, settling back into his seat. "Just let me know if you need anything."

Emily nodded, keeping her eyes on the road ahead. As they continued to drive deeper into the jungle, the air grew thick with humidity, and sweat began to bead on her forehead. She wiped it away with the back of her hand, wishing she could roll down the window, but knowing they couldn't risk attracting attention.

Her eyelids felt heavy, and she fought against the urge to close them even for a moment. The pain in her side was becoming unbearable, and she could feel herself starting to drift off, her grip on consciousness slipping. She knew she needed to rest, but she couldn't risk it. Not yet.

Emily glanced at Tom, his expression mirroring her own exhaustion. "I'm really sorry, Tom. I don't know how much longer I can keep going like this," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Tom reached over and took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Hey, it's okay. We'll figure something out. We're in this together, remember?" His words were calm, but his grip was tight, as if he were trying to hold onto something fragile.

Emily forced a smile, squeezing his hand back. "Yeah, I remember. Thanks, Tom." She glanced in the rearview mirror, half-expecting to see the headlights of their pursuers closing in. But the road behind them was empty. For now.

"Hey, Tom," she said, her voice quiet. "Do you ever think about what we'd be doing if all this hadn't happened? You know, if we were just regular kids, not part of this whole mess?"

Tom shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Sometimes," he admitted. "But I think we'd still be here, doing something important. Maybe not with the OASIS, but with something else. We're both good people, Em. We'd find a way to make a difference."

Emily looked over at him, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Thanks, Tom. I hope you're right." She paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. "Look, I know I'm not making this easy, but I need you to promise me something."

Tom's brow furrowed in concern. "What is it?"

Emily took a deep breath and forced a smile. "It's just… if something happens to me, if I don't make it out of here, I want you to make sure they know. My brothers, I mean. Tell them… tell them everything. About the OASIS, about Halliday, about what we found… and tell them that I love them, okay?" Her voice cracked, and tears welled up in her eyes. "Tell them that I'm so sorry for leaving them, and that I'll always be with them. And tell my mom… tell her thank you. Tell her that I appreciate everything she's ever done for me."

There was a long pause as the weight of her words hung heavily in the air. Finally, Tom reached over and squeezed her hand. "I promise, Em. I'll make sure they know. I'll make sure everyone knows." His voice was solemn, and Emily felt a surge of relief wash over her.

She took a deep breath and forced a smile. "Thanks, Tom. That means a lot to me." She glanced at Aech, who was still staring out the window, lost in thought. "Hey, Aech, how we doing so far?"

Aech turned back to her, his expression distant. "We're doing fine, Em. Just keep driving." He paused, then added with a small smile, "And try not to worry too much, okay?"

Emily nodded, her heart still racing. She focused on the road ahead, forcing herself to drive at a steady pace. The speedometer needle crept up as they raced past one exit sign after another. They were almost there.

"You guys okay back there?" she asked, glancing over her shoulder. Aech gave her a reassuring smile, while Tom continued to stare out the window, his jaw clenched tight. "Tom?" she prompted.

He took a deep breath and turned to face her. "Yeah, Em. I'm fine. Just thinking about what we're about to face." His voice was steady, but there was a hint of fear in his eyes. Emily felt a pang of guilt for involving him in all of this.

"Me too," she said, glancing back at Aech. "I know this is a lot to ask of you, Tom. I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to turn back."

Tom's expression was grim, but he didn't hesitate. "Em, you know I'm not going to leave you. We're in this together, and I'm not about to abandon you now." There was a fierce determination in his voice, and Emily felt a surge of gratitude for his loyalty.

She nodded, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. "Thanks, Tom. I appreciate that. So… we just keep going?"

"Yeah," Aech said, finally breaking his silence. "Just a few more miles now." He glanced at Emily, then leaned forward in his seat, lowering his voice. "But be ready, Em. This isn't going to be easy."

Emily nodded, her knuckles white from gripping the steering wheel. "I know," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I've been thinking about what to say… what to expect. But no matter what happens, I want you guys to know that I couldn't have done any of this without you."

A silence fell over the car as they continued to race down the empty highway. The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the road ahead. Emily's heart felt like it was in her throat, but she forced herself to stay focused on the task at hand.

Finally, she couldn't bear the tension any longer. "Guys," she said, her voice cracking slightly. "I just wanted to say… if something happens to me, if I don't make it out of here… please, please tell my brothers. Tell Enzo, Charles, and Aurthur that I love them more than anything, and that I'm sorry if I ever let them down. And tell my mom… tell her that I appreciate everything she's ever done for me. That I'm grateful for every moment we spent together, even when we fought. And tell her that I'm sorry for the arguments we had. That I was just trying to protect her."

Emily paused, wiping a tear from her cheek. "And if you could… could you give them all a big hug for me? Just tell them that I'll be thinking of them, and that I'll always be with them, no matter what."

Tom's voice was gruff as he spoke up. "Yeah, Em. We'll make sure they know, but your going to make it out of here yourself and can tell them yourself" He reached over and squeezed her shoulder, his grip reassuring.

Aech nodded in agreement, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. "Emily, we believe in you. We know you can do this." His voice was steady, but there was an undercurrent of fear and uncertainty beneath it.

The highway stretched out before them, seemingly endless in the fading light. Emily could feel the weight of Aech's words pressing down on her, the gravity of the situation bearing down on her shoulders. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves, and then began to slow the car down.

As they approached the tollbooth, she rolled down her window and handed the attendant a twenty-dollar bill. "It's for the road," she said with a weak smile, her voice barely audible over the rush of the wind. The attendant smiled back at her, nodding understandingly, and then waved them through.

Emily glanced in the rearview mirror as they drove past the booth, her reflection pale and haunted. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves, before turning back to her friends. "Okay, so here we are," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "I'm going to pull over up ahead and walk the rest of the way from here. You guys just stay in the car, okay?"

Aech nodded, his grip tightening on the wheel. "Yeah, we'll wait here. Just be careful, Em."

Emily pulled the car over to the side of the road and set the emergency brake. She took one last deep breath, then opened the door and stepped out onto the gravel shoulder. The air was cool against her face, and the sun had disappeared below the horizon, leaving the sky a deep shade of purple. She squinted at the horizon, searching for any signs of movement.

Turning back to the car, she waved at her friends through the open window. "I love you guys," she said, her voice barely audible above the sound of the wind. "Thank you for everything."

Aech leaned out of the window, his expression a mix of determination and fear. "You can do this, Em. We believe in you."

Emily nodded, trying to muster up some courage. "Thanks, Aech. I love you too." She turned back to Tom, her voice shaking. "And you, Tom. You've been such a great friend. Thank you for everything."

Tears were streaming down Emily's face as she spoke, but she forced herself to smile at them through her tears. "I'm going to do this," she said, more confidently than she felt. "I'm going to make it."

Aech nodded, his own eyes wet with tears. "You're right, Em. You can do this." He reached over and squeezed her shoulder, his grip reassuring. "And we'll be right here waiting for you. No matter what happens."

Emily took a deep breath, steeling herself against the fear that threatened to overwhelm her. She turned back to the car and opened the door, stepping out onto the gravel shoulder. The wind whipped her hair across her face as she looked out at the highway, the cars speeding past in both directions.

She glanced over at Aech and Tom, their faces etched with concern, their eyes filled with love and support. "I love you both so much," she said, her voice trembling. "And I want you to know that no matter what happens, I want you to keep living your lives to the fullest. Don't let anything hold you back, okay?"

Emily took a deep breath and then turned her attention back to the highway. The cars were speeding past in a blur, the headlights like tiny pinpricks of light in the darkness. "I'm going to run across the highway now," she said, her voice steady despite the fear that threatened to consume her. "Just stay here and wait for me, okay?"

Aech nodded, his grip tight on the seat. "We won't go anywhere, Em. We'll just wait right here for you."

Emily took a deep breath, steeling herself against the fear that threatened to overwhelm her. "Okay," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I love you both so much. And thank you… thank you for everything."

She turned her back to Aech and Tom, taking one final glance at their worried faces before facing the highway. The wind whipped her hair across her face as she looked out at the speeding cars, her heart pounding in her chest. In that moment, she knew that she was committing herself to the most terrifying and heroic act of her life.

Emily closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, and then began to run. The hot asphalt scorched her feet as she sprinted across the highway, weaving in and out of the headlights. Her lungs burned and her legs felt like lead, but she forced herself to keep going. She couldn't let her brothers down, couldn't let her mom down. This was her last chance to make a difference.

Ahead of her, she could see the entrance to the interstate. It was so close, yet it seemed like an impossible distance away. She could hear Aech and Tom shouting her name, their voices distant and muffled by the rush of wind and the roar of the cars. She forced herself to ignore the fear that threatened to overwhelm her, focusing instead on the image of her brothers' faces, the way they'd smile when they thought no one was looking.

Emily's lungs burned, her legs ached, but she kept running, refusing to give up. With every step, she felt a new surge of determination, a new wave of courage. She wasn't going to let her brothers down. She wasn't going to let her mom down. She was going to make it across that highway, no matter what it took.

As she neared the entrance to the interstate, she could hear Aech and Tom shouting her name louder than ever before, their voices a beacon of hope in the darkness. They believed in her, and she was going to prove them right. She wasn't going to let anything stand in her way.

With one final burst of energy, Emily sprinted across the last few feet of the highway, the hot asphalt burning the soles of her feet. She leapt, pushing off with all her might, and landed safely on the shoulder of the interstate. Tears streamed down her face as she turned around to see Aech and Tom still standing at the other end of the highway, their hands raised in the air, their fists clenched in triumph.

"I made it!" she shouted, her voice barely audible over the roar of the cars. "I did it! I'm here!"

Aech and Tom exchanged glances, relief and pride washing over their faces. They knew that the next part of their plan was just as dangerous, if not more so. They had to find a way to get across the interstate and meet Emily at the other end.

"Alright, Em," Aech said, his voice steady despite the tremor of emotion. "We're gonna need you to keep an eye out for us. Look for the big red truck we've been using as our ride. When you see it, give us a wave, okay?"

Emily nodded, her eyes scanning the cars as they sped past her. She could see the interstate stretching out in front of her, a ribbon of light cutting through the darkness. "I see it!" she shouted, pointing to the right. "I see the truck!"

Aech and Tom exchanged glances, their faces tight with determination. They began to run, weaving their way through the cars, their eyes never leaving Emily as they made their way across the interstate. They knew that the distance between them was closing with each step, but the cars still seemed to move impossibly fast.

Emily kept her eyes fixed on them, her heart pounding in her chest. She waved frantically when she saw them begin to run, her relief and joy palpable. Despite the danger, she couldn't help but feel a surge of pride in her team. They were running toward her, putting their lives on the line to save her, just as she would do for them.

As they drew closer, Aech and Tom broke into a sprint, weaving their way through the cars with a newfound sense of determination. They were almost there, their arms pumping, their breath coming in ragged gasps. Emily could see the desperation in their eyes, the determination to reach her no matter what it took.

She wanted nothing more than to be with them, to escape this hell together. But as she stood there, watching them run toward her, she couldn't help but think about the last thing she had said to them. About her brothers, and her mom.

Emily closed her eyes, trying to block out the images that flashed through her mind. Enzo, Charles, and Arthur. They were only kids, just like her. They didn't deserve this life. They didn't deserve to grow up in a world where people like Sorrento could exist. And her mom… Emily couldn't even begin to fathom the pain she must be going through right now. loosing their dad was hard but loosing her only daughter would be even harder.

She opened her eyes and looked at Aech and Tom, their faces contorted with determination and fear. "If I don't make it," she said, her voice barely audible over the sound of the cars, "tell them… tell them I love them. Tell them I'm sorry. Tell them…" Tears streamed down her face as she struggled to find the words. "Tell them everything. Tell them I'll always be with them."

Aech and Tom exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of understanding and determination. "We will, Em," Aech said, his voice steady. "We'll make sure they know."

Emily nodded, her eyes filling with tears. "Thank you," she managed to choke out. "Just… just get me out of here, okay?"

Aech and Tom exchanged another glance, their expressions grim. They were almost within reaching distance now, their arms outstretched as they lunged forward, their feet barely touching the ground as they sprinted toward her. "We're almost there, Em," Aech panted. "Just hold on a little longer."

Emily nodded, trying to steel her resolve as she felt the weight of their words. She knew that her brothers and mother were depending on them, and she couldn't help but feel guilty for putting them in this position. But she also knew that she couldn't give up. She had to keep fighting, for their sake as much as her own.

As Aech and Tom neared, she could see the determination in their eyes, the fire in their hearts. They were going to get her out of this hell, no matter the cost. And when they did, they were going to make sure that those responsible paid dearly.

Emily's breath came in ragged gasps as she watched them approach, their feet barely touching the ground as they sprinted toward her. They were almost there, just a few more steps, and she would be free from this nightmare. She forced herself to stand tall, to be strong, for her brothers and her mother.

"You can do this, Em," Aech panted, his hand reaching out to grab hers. "We're not leaving you behind."

Emily gripped his hand tightly, her fingers digging into his skin as they sprinted toward her. She could feel the weight of their words, the determination in their voices. They were going to get her out of this hell, no matter what it took.

As they neared, Aech and Tom exchanged one last glance, their faces etched with resolve. They had been through so much together, and they weren't about to let anything stop them now. With a final burst of speed, they reached Emily's side, their arms wrapping around her as they pulled her away from the oncoming traffic.

The impact of the car almost knocked them off their feet, but they held onto Emily tightly, refusing to let go. They stumbled backwards, away from the danger, their hearts racing and their lungs burning from the exertion. As they finally managed to put some distance between them and the cars, they lowered Emily to the ground, her limp body trembling from the adrenaline and fear.

Aech and Tom exchanged worried glances as they crouched beside her. They knew they needed to get her to safety, but first they had to make sure she was okay. "Em," Aech said, his voice shaking, "are you hurt?"

Emily let out a shuddering breath, her eyes closed tightly as tears streamed down her face. "I… I don't know," she managed to choke out. "I think… I think I'm okay."

Aech and Tom exchanged glances once more, their brows furrowed with concern. They knew that they needed to get her to safety, but they also wanted to make sure that she was really okay before they left.

Emily let out another shuddering breath, her shoulders shaking as she wiped away the tears that streamed down her face. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself before speaking. "I'm sorry," she managed to choke out. "I just need… I need a minute."

Aech and Tom exchanged worried glances again. They knew that Emily was in shock, and they needed to keep her talking, to keep her mind off of what had just happened. "Of course, Em," Aech said, his voice gentle. "Take all the time you need."

Emily took another deep breath, trying to steady herself. "I'm sorry," she repeated. "I just need… I need to be with them. To tell them myself."

Aech nodded, understanding. "Of course, Em. We'll make sure that happens." He glanced over at Tom, who nodded back. They knew they couldn't bring her home just yet; they had to get her to safety first. But they also knew how important it was for Emily to be with her family.

They carefully helped Emily to her feet, supporting her weight between them. Her knees were shaking, and she leaned heavily into them as they began to walk again. They didn't know where they were going, but they knew they had to keep moving.

As they walked, Aech kept glancing over at Emily, worried about how she was holding up. Her face was pale, and she seemed to be in shock. "Are you sure you're okay, Em?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Emily nodded, but her voice was shaky when she spoke. "I… I think so. I just need to see them, you know? I need to tell them." Her eyes filled with tears again, and she wiped them away roughly with the back of her hand.

Aech and Tom exchanged worried glances once more. They knew that getting Emily to safety was their priority, but they also understood how important it was for her to be with her family. They continued to walk, searching for a safe place where they could call for help or find someone to help them. they need to contact base camp or the police, but they didn't know how to do that from here.

As they walked, Emily leaned heavily on their shoulders, her body trembling from the adrenaline and fear. Her thoughts were a jumbled mess, and she couldn't seem to focus on anything but the urgent need to see her family. She knew that they would be waiting for her back home, worried sick about what had happened. The thought of facing them and telling them what she had just been through was almost unbearable.

Aech and Tom exchanged glances again, their expressions growing more concerned. They didn't know how much longer they could carry her weight, but they refused to leave her side. They needed to find a safe place where they could get help, and fast.

As they continued to walk, Emily's body grew heavier, her breathing more labored. Her eyes fluttered open and closed, her lips moving silently as if she were praying. Aech reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, debating whether they should call for help or try to find someone who could help them first., but it was broke and their radios weren't working either, so they were pretty much on their own.

"Em, I'm going to need you to hold on tight to me, okay?" he said, his voice gentle but firm. Emily nodded weakly, her fingers clutching at his jacket. They walked on, their footsteps echoing through the empty warehouse.

Aech glanced over at Tom, who shrugged. They both knew they couldn't carry Emily much farther. Her weight was becoming too much for them, and their own strength was starting to flag. They needed help, fast.

"Em, listen," Aech said, his voice firm but gentle. "We need to find someone to help us. Can you keep walking a little bit longer, okay?" Emily's eyes fluttered open, and she nodded weakly. A tear slipped down her cheek.

They continued to search through the empty warehouse, their footsteps echoing on the concrete floor. Every now and then, they would hear distant noises outside, but they couldn't tell if they were coming closer or moving farther away. The air was cold and damp, and Emily shivered violently as she tried to keep pace with Aech and Tom.

"Hang in there, Em," Aech said softly, his arm tight around her shoulders. "We'll find someone to help us soon." But even as he spoke, he knew that they were running out of time. Emily's weight was becoming more and more difficult to bear, and their own strength was beginning to wane. They had to find help quickly, before something worse happened.

They continued to wander through the endless corridors of the warehouse, their footsteps echoing on the concrete floor. The air was cold and damp, and Emily's body shivered violently as she tried to keep up with their pace. Her breath came in ragged gasps, and her eyelids fluttered open and closed, as if she were struggling to stay conscious.

Aech and Tom exchanged worried glances, their faces pale in the dim light. They knew they couldn't carry Emily much farther, and they were running out of time. As they rounded a corner, they spotted a figure in the distance, huddled against the wall. It was a man, dressed in the uniform of a maintenance worker.

"Over here!" Aech called out, waving his arms frantically. The maintenance worker looked up, startled, and hurried over to them. "We need help," Aech said urgently. "Our lieutentent here has been hurt, and she's losing consciousness."

The maintenance worker's expression turned grave as he knelt beside Emily. "What happened?" he asked, feeling for a pulse at her neck. " shes been shot" said tom and aech together. The maintenance worker nodded, his face tight with concern. "Okay, let's get her to the infirmary as fast as we can."

He carefully scooped Emily up into his arms, cradling her gently against his chest. Aech and Tom followed close behind, their hearts pounding with worry. As they hurried through the maze of corridors, the maintenance worker gave them a quick update. "I'm sorry, but Emily has lost a lot of blood. We need to get her to the infirmary right away. If we don't, she could die."

The words hung in the air like a heavy weight as they continued their frantic race through the warehouse. They turned a corner and almost ran headlong into another group of of thier team, also searching for help. "Over here!" Aech called out, waving his arms to avoid a collision.

The group, consisting of four soldiers and their commanding officer, hurried over. "What's going on?" their CO demanded, his eyes darting between them. "Where's Emily?" Without a word, Aech and Tom pointed down the corridor they had just come from. The soldiers immediately took charge, two of them running ahead to scout the area while the others crouched down beside Emily and began administering first aid.

The maintenance worker, grateful for the extra help, stepped back to allow the soldiers to work their magic. He glanced at his watch, his brow furrowed. "We're not far from the infirmary," he said. "We can get her there quickly, but she's in bad shape."

Emily's breathing became shallower, her chest rising and falling rapidly. Her eyes fluttered open for a moment, her expression a mix of fear and confusion. "Wha-what happened?" she managed to croak. One of the soldiers, his voice steady and reassuring, replied, "Shhh, you're safe now. We're taking you to the infirmary where they'll fix you up."

The maintenance worker, who had been watching her closely, nodded in agreement. He glanced at his watch again, his brow furrowing as he realized they were taking longer than anticipated. "We shouldn't waste any more time," he muttered under his breath.

As they continued their frantic dash down the corridor, Emily's breath grew shallower and her skin paler. Her heart raced, and her head began to spin. "I-I'm n-not…," she stammered, her voice barely audible.

The maintenance worker, who was now carrying her, glanced back worriedly at the group following them. "We're almost there," he assured her, his voice shaking. "Just hold on a little longer."

Emily felt as if she were floating, her body growing heavier with each passing second. Her vision blurred, and she could no longer make out the faces of her teammates or the unfamiliar hallways they were hurrying through. She tried to focus on their voices, but they seemed to fade in and out like a distant radio signal.

As she drifted in and out of consciousness, she was vaguely aware of the maintenance worker carrying her, his strong arms supporting her weight as he raced through the warehouse. She could feel the warmth of his breath against her ear, and the rhythmic thump of his heartbeat beneath her cheek. She wanted to tell him that she was okay, that she would be fine, but her words wouldn't come out.

The corridor spun around her, a blur of white walls and red emergency lights. She caught glimpses of her teammates, their faces etched with worry and determination, their movements a blur as they hurried along beside them. The air around her felt thick and heavy, like she was swimming through water, and her limbs felt impossibly heavy.

Emily tried to focus on anything, but her vision was foggy and her thoughts were slow and sluggish. She wanted to tell them she was okay, that she would be fine, but the words wouldn't come out. Instead, she let herself be carried by the rhythm of their steps, her head lolling against the maintenance worker's shoulder as he hurried down the hallway.

The air around her felt thick and hot, like she was wrapped in a blanket made of heavy wool. Her limbs felt impossibly heavy, and every movement was a struggle. She couldn't remember the last time she had felt this tired, this weak.

The maintenance worker carrying her seemed to sense her distress, glancing over his shoulder at her with concern etched on his face. "Almost there," he assured her, his voice rough with emotion. "Just hold on a little longer."

Emily felt a pang of regret as she looked down at her jacket pocket, wondering what the small, glinting object was that had caused such a commotion. She knew it must be important, but her thoughts were growing fuzzy, and she couldn't seem to focus on anything but the exhaustion that was slowly creeping up on her.

The maintenance worker carrying her glanced back at her with concern, his eyes meeting hers for a brief moment before he turned his attention back to the group following them. "Almost there," he murmured reassuringly, his breath warm against her ear.

Emily tried to focus on his voice, on the words he was saying, but her eyelids grew heavy and her head spun. The air around her seemed to grow thicker, more oppressive with each passing second, making it difficult to breathe. She felt as if she were drowning, her limbs growing heavier and more leaden with every struggle.

Emily felt a surge of determination as she tried to focus on his voice, on the words he was saying. She wanted to tell him that she was okay, that she would be fine, but her words wouldn't come out. Instead, she tried to sit up straighter, to steel herself against the overwhelming fatigue that threatened to drag her down.

The maintenance worker, sensing her renewed strength, adjusted his grip on her, his arms supporting her weight more securely. He glanced over his shoulder at her with a reassuring smile, his eyes meeting hers for a moment before he turned back to the group following them. "this way there are some doctors waiting for us ," he assured her, his voice strong and steady.

Emily forced herself to focus on his words, to take in the details of the corridor around her. The air felt cleaner now, less oppressive, and the red emergency lights seemed to dim ever so slightly. The walls were still a sterile white, but she could see signs of life now: posters advertising safety procedures, reminders to wash hands, and even a few bright flowers in a vase near the end of the hall.

As they rounded a corner, she caught a glimpse of the doctors waiting for them. They looked serious, but their eyes were full of concern and compassion. The maintenance worker carrying her slowed his pace, careful not to jostle her too much, and finally came to a stop in front of a set of double doors. One of the doctors stepped forward, taking her weight from the maintenance worker's arms.

Emily felt a wave of relief wash over her as she was lowered gently onto a waiting gurney. The doctor who had taken her weight quickly checked her vitals, noting her heightened heart rate and rapid breathing. He glanced at the maintenance worker and the others who had accompanied her, their faces etched with worry.

"She's stable for now," the doctor murmured, his voice calm and reassuring. "We'll take her back to get her checked out and she may need surgery based on her injuries" He turned to the waiting nurses, issuing instructions as they wheeled her down the hall.

Emily lay on the gurney, her eyes fluttering open and closed as she tried to make sense of what was happening. The corridor seemed to stretch on forever, the white walls and sterile floors bathed in the harsh red emergency lights. She could hear the distant beeping of machines and the muffled footsteps of medical staff as they hurried past.

The doctor who had taken her vital signs was now examining her closely, his face a mask of concern. "Emily," he began gently, "I'm afraid you've been shot multiple times. You're going to be okay, but we need to get you to surgery as soon as possible." He paused, meeting her eyes with a reassuring smile. "You're in good hands here. Just try to rest and focus on getting better."

Emily tried to nod, but the movement made her wince with pain. "Okay," she managed to croak out.

The doctor gave her a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder before stepping back. "We're almost there," he told her, his voice steady and calm. "The surgical team is waiting for you."

Emily closed her eyes, taking a deep breath as the gurney began to roll forward once more. The sterile air of the hallway gave way to the familiar smell of antiseptic and the beeping of machines as they entered the surgical ward. Doctors and nurses in sterile white coats bustled around them, their efficient movements a testament to their expertise and training.

As they approached a set of double doors, a woman in a pale blue scrub suit rushed over to them. "Dr. Webber," she said, her voice tinged with urgency, "we're ready for you in Room 3. The anesthesiologist and the surgical team are waiting."

Dr. Webber, a tall man with kind eyes and a reassuring smile, nodded gratefully at the nurse. "Thank you, grey . How's she doing?"

"Her vitals are stable for now," the intern replied, glancing briefly at Emily before turning back to Dr. Webber. "But we're keeping a close eye on her. The anesthesiologist is ready to put her under as soon a we're in the OR."

Dr. Webber nodded, his expression grave but determined. "Thank you, . Let's get her in there and take care of her." He turned to Emily's teams, who ere waiting anxiously nearby. "gentlemen" he said gently, "we're going to take excellent care of your lieutenant We'll keep you updated every step of the way."

The team of surgeons filed into the operating room, led by Dr. Webber and the anesthesiologist. Emily's eyes fluttered open, panic rising in her chest as she realized she was about to be put under. "Wait," she managed to croak out, her voice barely audible over the beeping of the machines, "tom and aech… they… they called my mom yet…?" Her heart felt like it was lodged in her throat, and she struggled to breathe.

Dr. Webber glanced over his shoulder at the nurse, who nodded understandingly. "Don't worry, Emily," he said gently, laying a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "They're here with you. Your friends tom and aech called your mother earlier to let her know what was going on. They're both here in the waiting room, waiting for updates from us. We'll make sure she knows you're doing as well as you can be."

Emily's chest tightened, but she forced herself to take a deep breath. "Okay," she managed to whisper. "Okay."

Dr. Webber smiled gently at her and squeezed her shoulder reassuringly. "I know it's scary, Emily, but we're here with you every step of the way. Your mom is going to be in good hands with tom and aech. They're both incredibly strong and resilient people, and they'll make sure she knows everything that's going on. You just focus on getting better, okay?"

Emily nodded weakly, tears welling up in her eyes. "Okay," she whispered.

Dr. Webber glanced at the anesthesiologist, who gave him a nod. "All right," he said gently, "let's get you prepped for surgery, Emily." The anesthesiologist placed a mask over Emily's face, and she felt the anesthesia begin to take effect. Her body went numb, and her surroundings grew fuzzy. She could hear distant voices, but they sounded as if they were underwater.

As she drifted in and out of consciousness, Emily's thoughts kept returning to tom and aech, and her mother and her siblings She wished she could be with them, to reassure them and to feel their love and support. She hoped they were all right, and that they knew she was going to be okay.

Meanwhile, back in the waiting room, tom and aech sat next to Emily's mother who was flown into immediately as she was called , holding her hands and rubbing her back. They had both called their own parents earlier to tell them what was going on and ask for their support. Tom had always been the strong one, but even he felt a lump in his throat as he tried to comfort Emily's mother.

"They're doing everything they can for her, Mrs. Leclerc ," tom said softly. "Dr. Webber is one of the best surgeons around. Emily is in good hands."

Aech nodded in agreement. "We've been texting each other updates from the waiting room. They've been telling us about every step of the process, and they sound so hopeful. They believe in her, just like we do."

" do the boys know what happened Pascale?" asked aech , his voice quivering slightly. Emily's mother shook her head, tears streaming down her face. "Dr. Webber explained that Emily's windpipe had become compressed, making it difficult for her to breathe. They're operating now to relieve the pressure and hopefully restore her breathing, and that a bullet ot two have entered her chest cavity " she managed to choke out.

Tom squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Dr. Webber and his team are some of the best in the business, and they're going to do everything they can for her. They've got all the latest technology at their fingertips, and they're not going to stop until she's better."

Aech nodded in agreement. "And Emily's a fighter, Mrs. Leclerc. She's been through a lot in her life, but she's always come out stronger on the other side. I know she's going to pull through this."

Pascale looked up at them, her red eyes filled with hope and gratitude. "Thank you both so much for being here for her," she said, her voice shaking. "I can't tell you how much it means to me, and to our entire family. Your support is going to help Emily more than you'll ever know."

They sat in silence for a while, each lost in their own thoughts. Finally, an surgical intern cleared his throat. "So, uh, we talked to the doctors, and they're doing some tests to see how much damage was done to her windpipe, and how many ribs were broken. We'll let you know as soon as we hear anything."

Tom and Aech exchanged worried glances, then turned to Emily's mother who seemed in a dazed ans snapped her out of it. "They're running some tests, Pascale, but they're confident they can fix whatever's wrong. And, uh, they told us that Emily was very lucky. The bullet that hit her chest didn't damage any major organs, and it didn't even puncture her lung."

Pascale's eyes widened with hope. "Really?" she managed to choke out. "Then she has a good chance?"

Tom nodded solemnly. "That's right, Pascale. The doctors are very positive about her chances. They say that she's strong, and that she's fighting hard. We just have to keep the faith and be there for her."

' i should probably call Enzo and let him know what's happing and he can get here with Charles and Arthur as soon as they can' cried Pascale , already reaching for her purse. The two men exchanged a worried glance, but didn't say anything. They knew that Emily's family was close-knit, and that having her brothers there would mean the world to her.

"Here, let me do that," Aech said, gently taking her phone out of her hand. He dialed Emily's older brothers number and put it on speaker so Pascale could hear. There was a brief pause, and then a tired voice answered. "Hello?"

"Enzo, it's Aech. We're with Emily at the hospital. She was shot tonight, but the doctors are doing everything they can. They say she's strong and she's fighting hard," Aech said, his voice cracking slightly. "She's in good hands, but we could really use you and the rest of the family here with us."

There was a long pause on the other end of the line. "Oh my God," Enzo finally whispered. "I'm on my way. Charles and Arthur too. We'll be there as soon as we can."

Pascale let out a shaky breath, her shoulders slumping in relief. "Thank you, Enzo. I can't tell you how much that means to us all. We love you and your brothers."

The room was filled with the sound of muffled sobs as the news began to sink in for Emily's family. Tom put his arm around Pascale, offering what little comfort he could. "We'll stay here with her, Pascale. You should go back to the hotel and get some rest. The doctors said there's nothing you can do right now, so try to get some sleep."

Pascale shook her head, wiping away tears. "I can't leave her," she whispered. "I can't, i can;t loose her too"

Tom squeezed her shoulder gently. "You need to take care of yourself, Pascale. Emily needs you to be strong for her. We'll stay right here with her, okay?"

Aech nodded in agreement. "And, listen, we'll keep you updated every step of the way. You're not going to hear anything through the news or social media that we don't tell you first, okay?"

Pascale nodded, sniffling. "Okay," she managed to say. "Thank you." She leaned forward, her elbows on her knees, and buried her face in her hands. "I just can't believe this is happening," she whispered. "Why would someone do this to her?"

Tom placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We don't know, Pascale. But we'll find out. The commanders are on it." He glanced over at Aech, who was pacing back and forth near the window. "In the meantime, let's make sure Emily knows that we're all here for her, okay?"

Pascale nodded, sniffling as she wiped her nose on her sleeve. "Okay," she managed to say. "Thank you." She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself.

after a few hours later Enzo, Charles, Aurthur and their girlfriends arrive at the hospital.

they all walk in and see tom and aech sitting in the waiting chairs half asleep on each others shoulders while the rest of the team are spread around the waiting room.

As Enzo, Charles, Arthur, and their girlfriends approach, they exchange hugs and words of encouragement with Emily's team. They all take seats around the waiting room, trying to stay positive and supportive. The room is tense, but there's also an undercurrent of determination and strength that comes from being together in this difficult time

"wheres our mother?" asked charles "she should be here"

" we sent her back to the hotel a few hours ago to rest: said aech

"shes too worried about emily to get any sleep here." He looked over at enzo, charles and arthur. "i'm glad you all are here now. It helps."

"of course we're here for her. we'll get through this together." Enzo said, squeezing Tom's shoulder. "Any updates from the commanders?"

Aech shook his head. "Not yet, but they're working on it. They're going through all the footage from the arena, and they're trying to track down anyone who might have seen something." He glanced over at Emily, her condition seeming to grow more grave with each passing moment. "They'll find whoever did this, I promise."

"what happened exacly?" asked aurthur .

"well, according to the doctors, Emily was hit by a poisoned dart and shot multiply times while she was trying to save a teammate during the attack . They're still trying to stabilize her, but it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride so far," explained Tom. "It's horrible, just horrible."

" we were ambushed from all sides, we had nowwhere to go" explained tom "i was shot, aech was shot, emily was shot. we tried to fight back but they were too many. we hid in the bushes and waited for backup but it never came"

" and then emily found a abandoned truck and carried everyone who was injured to the truck and drove like hell" aech said , starting to cry again "she saved all of us but they shot her again, they shot her in the chest" he paused, taking a deep breath before continuing "she's strong, she's going to be okay, we just have to believe that"

The waiting room remained tense as they continued to exchange stories and tried to comfort each other. Aurthur, Enzo, and Charles looked at each other, knowing that they had to be strong for Emily and the rest of the team. They each took turns pacing, trying to burn off some of the nervous energy that was coursing through their veins.

Charlette and Alex , enzo and charles girlfriends had went and gotten coffee for everyone and brought it back to the waiting room. They tried to make small talk with everyone but it seemed like no one wanted to talk. Everyone was too worried about Emily. Tom and Aech were constantly checking their phones, waiting for any news from the commanders.

"You know, Emily would want us to be strong right now. She'd want us to fight for her," Enzo said, trying to encourage the group. "We need to stay positive and believe that she's going to pull through this."

"I agree, Enzo. She's a fighter, and she's not going to give up without a fight," said Aurthur. "We just have to keep telling ourselves that."

The waiting room fell silent again as they all focused on Emily, willing her to pull through. The doctors and nurses came in and out, giving updates on her condition, but there was little change. They were still working to stabilize her.

Aech finally broke the silence. "Guys, I can't just sit here. I need to do something. We all need to do something." He stood up, looking determined. "We need to find out who did this. We need to make them pay."

" just as aech was complaining, dr.webber walked out and with him was two other doctors.

dr.webber looked at the group and said "i have some good news and some bad news. the good news is, we were able to stabilize her. the bad news is, we had to put her into a medically induced coma. the poison is too strong and we need to give her body time to fight it off"

"what's going to happen to her while she's in the coma?" asked Tom, his voice shaking.

"Well, she'll be hooked up to a ventilator to help her breathe, and we'll continue to monitor her vitals. We'll also administer antitoxins to help combat the poison. But it's still too early to tell how she's going to respond. We're going to keep her in intensive care for now, and we'll update you on her condition as we learn more," explained DR.Shepard the neuro-surgeon one of the other doctors .

" what about the her chest" asked aech "is she going to be okay?" "well, the bullet didn't hit any vital organs, so her heart should be fine. however, the poison has caused some damage to her lungs. we'll have to monitor that closely as well. there's a chance she may need a lung transplant down the road, but that's something we'll cross when we come to it," explained Dr.Burke the cardo- surgeon .

"thank god the bullet didn't hit anything else," Tom said, visibly relieved.

"Listen, we're going to do everything we can for Emily," Dr.Shepard assured the group. "She's in good hands here. But we're also going to need your help. You all need to stay positive and supportive. Keep the visitors to a minimum so she can rest. And most importantly, trust in the medical staff to do our jobs."

"I will," Tom said, nodding. "I'll be here for her, no matter what." He wiped a tear from his eye.

"So will I," Aech added. "And we'll find whoever did this, and we'll make them pay." He shot a determined look at the doctors.

Dizziness overcame Enzo as he realized the gravity of the situation. He sat down heavily in a chair, his head in his hands. "This is all my fault," he whispered. "I should've been there. I should've protected her. I should have told her not to join the army and instead i encourage her to join''. His voice broke, and tears welled up in his eyes.

Aech put a reassuring hand on Enzo's shoulder. "Hey, man, it's not your fault. You couldn't have known this would happen. We're all in this together now, and we're going to find out who did this and make them pay."

Dr.Webber nodded. "Yes, and in the meantime, I want you all to focus on Emily. Stay positive and supportive. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers. We'll do everything we can here."

The doctors left the room, giving the friends a moment to process the information. Enzo leaned back in his chair, still unable to meet Aech's eyes. "I don't know how I'm going to handle this," he whispered. "I feel so guilty."

"Hey, it's not your fault," Aech said, his voice soft. "We all make mistakes. We just have to focus on getting Emily through this and finding whoever did this to her."

" hey enzo, you are the person emily looks up to since dad passed away" charles said "if anyone can help her get through this, it's you. Just be there for her, okay?"

Enzo took a deep breath and nodded. "I'll do my best," he said, his voice still shaky. "I promise."

"Good, good," Charles said, his voice reassuring. "Now, let's go visit Emily. I'm sure she'd love to see some friendly faces."

" we should propnaly call mom first" said aurthur "she's gonna need to hear about this as well" . charles nodded and dialed the number.

their mother answered the phone with a shaky voice, her words choked with tears. "Hello?"

"Hey, Mom," Charles said gently. "It's me, Charles. Listen, emily is out of surgery and is in a medical coma"

Their mother let out a choked sob. "Oh, no," she whispered. "Is she going to be okay?"

Charles took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. "I don't know, Mom. The doctors are doing everything they can. But we need to stay positive and supportive. Emily's going to need us now more than ever. do you want someone to come and get you?"

There was a long silence on the other end of the line. Their mother was clearly struggling to keep it together. "Yes," she said finally. "I'll be there as soon as I can."

"All right, Mom," Charles said. "Take your time. We'll keep you updated. And we'll need your support too. We're all in this together."

"Thank you, Charles," their mother said, sniffling. "I'll be there as soon as I can." She paused for a moment, then added, "I love you, sweetie."

"I love you too, Mom," Charles replied gently. "Now, why don't you take a deep breath and try to calm down before you get here. Emily can feel your emotions, and we need to stay strong for her."

As their mother finished the call, they all stood up and headed toward Emily's room. The hallway was crowded with worried family members, all exchanging hushed whispers and tearful glances. It was a somber procession as they made their way down the hall, their footsteps echoing against the sterile white walls.

Finally, they reached Emily's room. everyone paused in the doorway, taking in the scene before them. Emily lay motionless in the bed, her face pale and peaceful, surrounded by a tangle of wires and medical equipment. The beeping of the monitors filled the air, creating a rhythmic, yet unsettling background noise.

Enzo stepped forward, his heart racing. He took Emily's hand in his, feeling the coldness of her skin against his own. "Hey, Em," he whispered, trying to sound reassuring. "We're all here. We're not going anywhere. just know your big brother is here"

Aurthur sat down gently in a chair next to the bed, his eyes never leaving Emily's face. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to calm his own racing thoughts. "Em, we love you so much," he said softly. "We're going to do everything we can to help you get through this. You're so strong, and we know you can fight this and i need my big sister to cover for me when i mess with enzo and charles"

Charles nodded, unable to speak past the lump in his throat. He reached out and gently brushed a lock of hair from Emily's forehead. "You're not alone, Em. We're all here for you, okay? And when you wake up, we're all going to have an amazing adventure together. Just you wait and see and i want you to meet your nephew Leo, whos a dog by the way"

As they sat with Emily, the hours seemed to drag on. The doctors and nurses came and went, each one bringing news both hopeful and dire. They tried to maintain a sense of normalcy, talking about school and work and their favorite movies, but the weight of Emily's condition hung over them like a dark cloud.

The room was bustling with activity, but for the seven of them, it might as well have been a lonely island. They were all so focused on Emily, their world had narrowed down to this tiny space. They shared glances, held hands, and whispered words of encouragement.

Time seemed to slow down as they waited, the beeping of the monitors filling the air. Every time a doctor or nurse came in, their hearts would leap into their throats, only to sink again when they heard the news was good.

Aurthur was the first to speak up. "Hey Em, do you remember that time we snuck out of the house and went to that amusement park?" He asked, trying to elicit a smile. "We had so much fun, and we got in so much trouble!"

Enzo nodded, his eyes filling with tears. "Yeah, I remember. It was like we were invincible. We could do anything, be anyone." He wiped away a tear, trying to maintain his composure. "We should've known that day we could conquer anything, because we did. We conquered our fears and we lived life to the fullest."

Aurthur smiled at his friend, then turned to Emily. "You know, Em, I think about that day a lot. It's funny how sometimes the smallest things in life can change us. I mean, that amusement park trip was just supposed to be a day off from summer school, but it ended up being so much more."

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hanasnx · 8 months

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"oranges."

MINORS DNI 18+

There's so much to love, hate, and admire about LEO CAMPO.

He calls his friends “cousin.” Even if they're not blood, they're family.

He corrects your pronunciation of his full name when you ask for it. He teaches you how to say it the way his parents meant it to be said. What his future restaurant will be called. What his mother yelled when he was in trouble for playing craps behind Pizza Napoli.

He quit smoking because you express disinterest in the way it makes his saliva taste. He chews nic gum constantly to soothe that oral fixation. You start to miss the way cloves smelled on his jackets.

Barely gets enough sleep. Between his job at his father’s joint, his shifts at the bar, and staying up late to work on the spot he leased, he’s swamped. Any spare time he has is spent on his restaurant, molding it to his visions. He loves this town, and he’s excited to put down some roots.

Who doesn’t realize he makes you jealous when he places his hands on his coworker’s hips behind the bar so he can get past her. Or how she takes every excuse to hover around him long past her training has completed. How she calls for him in a tune, or interrupts your conversation with him to ask you if she can, “steal your boyfriend real quick.” You’re onto her.

Who swears up and down that she doesn’t have a thing for him, and you’re making shit up. It’s cute that you’re jealous and all, but c’mon. She knows he’s her boss. He’s unappreciative of your “infringement” upon his actions. Unfortunately, you can’t let this go. Not when she so clearly wants to fuck him.

Who scoffs when you tell him, “Okay, if you don’t believe me, text her. Do it right now. Ask her to hook up.” because you’re sick of dragging this out. He protests you, but simply being higher than her in the bar’s food chain does nothing to quiet your nerves. You don’t care if he’s her boss.

“Didn’t know you got so fucking jealous. Maybe we should just call off the whole thing.” he says. It stings to be told you’re not worth the effort. That he’d rather quit on giving you and him a real shot instead of just easing your worries.

“Is that what you wanna do, Leo? Huh? Call off this whole thing just so you can keep acting like a sleaze?”

He scoffs at you. “What the fuck are you even saying?” It’s too late to derail your train of thought, it won’t be deescalated after what he’s admitted. You’re apparently not worth the effort. So you gather your things.

“Fine. You win.” you reply, “Don’t call me until you get fucking smart.” You throw your belongings into your purse, throwing it over your shoulder to exit the empty bar.

An annoyed sigh sounds behind you, but you don’t look back. “Baby.” His exasperation shines through when he calls after you, “Baby! C’mon, I didn’t mean it.” When that doesn’t receive the usual response, he fishes out his phone from his pocket. You open the door, cold air blowing in while he surrenders his phone, “I’m doing it! I’m doing it, look!” You halt, and eye him as he begins typing. “I’m doing it. And...” he muses. “send. It’s sent.” He turns it to show you the screen, and gently you close the door. “Now we’ll just wait—“ His cell isn’t halfway back in his pocket before a text tone beeps. “Oh, already.. Huh.” His brows furrow, deepening as he lays his gaze on it to read.

“What? What does it say?” you demand.

He says nothing, and you hastily approach. As soon as he registers your lingering presence, he jerks it away, but you're steadfast. Your hands catch his wrist to yank his cell back into your view. "'Was waiting for you to ask. Could tell your G-F was getting on your nerves.'?" Each word you read aloud your voice raises. His head lulls with a disappointed sigh through his nose, pressing his eyes closed as your nails dig into his skin unintentionally.

When you make one move, returning to your route to the door, he's swift in latching a hand on your upper arm. "Woah, woah, where you goin'?" There was something off about that girl, and you knew it.

"To go knock that bitch's headlights out!" you reply as you're drawn right back to him, bracing your fists against his chest. Truthfully, you don't want to be anywhere near him. After dismissing your instincts and giving that girl any indication that he was annoyed with you pissed you the fuck off. "Let me go!" you command, and he palms your forearms, arresting you as you thrash.

"I'm not gonna let you go off and do somethin' stupid!" His response causes you to flick off his grasp, throwing your hands down to release them. A quiet moment passes as you pant, sharing a heated exchange of eye contact. You shy away at first as his fingers graze your elbow, but you allow him to use it to lead you softly towards the bar. "Let's just... talk about this, huh? Lemme get you somethin'." He pours you a drink, but you don't touch it yet, pressing your lips into a thin line. He inclines his head in an attempt to catch you eye. "Will you look at me? Please?"

An accusatory finger jabs into his chest as you lay your gaze on him, that wrath flaring within you. "And you—" you seethe, and he suspends his hands in surrender, "you let her think you were annoyed with me. What did you say to her?" His posture straightens, upturning his brows as he defends himself.

“Honest, baby, I don’t know where she got a thing like that. S’crazy.” Your expression hardens, grilling him. He concedes, his face twisting as that familiar noise of, "'Ehh," spills from his lips. “I may—” he relays tentatively, “—have told her a little somethin' about how you were getting on my case about staying late—"

"—Leo."

"—She wanted to play pool so we’d hit the balls around a bit and I’d come straight home after closing up shop. It was a little bonding! You know? I’m a boss! Was trying to make her feel at home! That’s it, I swear—”

"—Leo."

"—Sure, you can be a little pitchy, but I wouldn't tell her that—"

"—Leo!"

His parted lips close, dropping his hands.

LEO CAMPO can be exceedingly difficult to have a conversation with, but he makes it worthwhile. Showing you how sorry he is, eating his words as he eats you out on top of his bar. Murmuring shit into your cunt about how that girl wishes he'd done this to her, fantasizes about fucking him in the empty bar... but who's got him doing that right now? Who runs him? Of course it's you. Just to get the point across, you make him fuck you bent over the pool table too.

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unorthodoxx-page · 10 months

Text

Of Shadows and Risings is now LIVE

Wrote this quick one-shot after watching the new Mutant Mayhem movie. I can say though that it was hard to get into the voices of the MM turtles. I think that'll change with the series, but I believe I got pretty close! So here's the Rise of the TMNT x Mutant Mayhem crossover

Summary:

These turtles are different; flat and angular in a way that hurts the eyes, but Leo sees pieces of his brothers in these opposites. And then there’s Leonardo. This cool, magical, confident version of himself, that doesn’t resemble him in the slightest. Leonardo’s like the kids that stalk the hallways. Untouchable, but with a grin and wit that pulls everyone in. Leo’s the complete opposite; perpetually awkward in the halls and in his leadership. Even now the older turtle flips with an ease he can’t hope to obtain.

_____________

Or a baton is passed and the world expands.

#rise of the teenage mutant ninja turtles #rise of the tmnt #tmnt #teenage mutant ninja turtles mutant mayhem #teenage mutant ninja turtles #rottmnt #tmntmm #fanfiction #crossover #ao3 #fanfic #donnie #leo #raph #mikey #one shot

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starxrocket11 · 1 year

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Medic!Leo Headcanons + Disaster Twins

Thinking about medic Leo, I think he dedicated a lot of time to organizing the medbay, this becoming a shared project for the twins.

After the Shredder I also believe that as a surprise, Donnie built Leo his own “office” in the medbay. This is an corner with a desk, a laptop and a monitor, and some shelves for his medical books. Given that it’s been one of the times when Leo has been studying the most, given that he realized how much in danger they actually were.

Donnie also added access to some of his own apps, like the “Hack into Every Security Camera in New York” App, as a way to encourage Leo’s new position as leader.

Leo uses it both for its intended purpose, and for gaming lol

He does uses the security features, but he doesn’t do it as actively until after the Kraang when he finally starts to embrace the leadership role.

Also, Leo may be generally messy with his things in his room, but his medbay (bcs it’s HIS medbay, he emphasizes it a lot) is spotless and organized, everything from materials to medicines, to his own notes.

Donnie also gives him a tablet where he does his notes digitally, ending up doing a "manual" for his brothers so that in case he’s not able to do his job, his brothers have the information they need on his computer, everything being backed up in Donnie’s cloud.

Fun fact: This manual has a cover made by Mikey that says "Leo's manual for ouchies *insert chibi Leo with a winky face*"

He also cleans and re-organizes the medbay when stressed lol.

And he has a special cabinet for stickers and candy (Mikey is his sticker provider)

#rottmnt #rottmntleo #rottmnt donnie #rottmnt disaster twins #medic leo #disaster twins #rottmnt mikey #rottmnt raph #This headcanon is definitely going to appear in my one-shots #rottmnt headcanons

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thorin-is-a-cuddler · 3 months

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Fruchtzwergeistherapie

A/N: Ich liebe die Freundschaft von Leo und Pia und finde, dass sie es beide schon schwer haben mit ihren Crushes auf Adam und Esther. Deshalb ist dieser Oneshot ihnen gewidmet. Leo schnappt Pia nach der Arbeit, um sie auf seine Schlafcouch zu verfrachten - in der Hoffnung, dass sie endlich mal etwas Schlaf abbekommt. Dabei bemerkt Pia, wie wichtig es eigentlich ist, Freunde zu haben.

Platonic Pia und Leo

Hinted Adam/Leo und Pia/Esther

Sie hörte Schritte näher kommen, nahm aber nicht wahr, wer da eigentlich auf sie zukam - und mit welcher Intention. Vollkommen vertieft in die Akte eines Täters, war Pia für die Außenwelt nicht wirklich ansprechbar. Doch plötzlich setzte sich genau diese Außenwelt in Bewegung. Pia brauchte einen Moment, um zu realisieren, dass es nicht ihr Schreibtisch samt Computertastatur war, der sich in gemächlichem Tempo von ihr zu entfernen begann, sondern Leo dafür verantwortlich war, dass sie, Pia, sich VON ihrem Schreibtisch samt Computertastatur entfernte. Die Rollen ihres Schreibtischstuhls quietschten leise über den Boden, während Leo ihn bewegte.

Die Hände noch zum Tippen bereit in der Luft schwebend, blickte Pia blinzelnd zu ihm hoch. Er hatte die Augenbrauen auf eine Art und Weise hochgezogen, die keinen Zweifel entstehen ließ: Widerspruch war zwecklos.

„Was soll das werden?“ Ihre Stimme fühlte sich kratzig in ihrem Hals an, als sie ihre Frage stellte – so als ob sie den Tag über zu viel oder zu wenig gesprochen hatte.

Leo schnaufte amüsiert, wobei sein Kopfschütteln sehr darauf schließen ließ, dass er sie schlicht unmöglich fand.

„Pia, es ist 21 Uhr und du machst immer noch keine Anstalten nach Hause zu gehen. Ich habe mir das jetzt lange genug mit angeschaut. Abmarsch! Schluss für heute!“

Die Hände noch immer zum Tippen ausgestreckt, blickte sie von Leo zu ihrem fernen Schreibtisch und wieder zurück. Sie verstand sehr gut, was ihr Kollege da zu ihr gesagt hatte, doch die Informationen wollten nicht recht zu ihr durchsickern.

„Aber…“

„Nee! Einfach nein, Pia!“ Leos Stimme wurde so energisch, dass Pias blaue Augen sich zu kreisrunden Monden weiteten. „Ich finde es ja toll, dass du immer mit ganzem Herzen bei der Sache bist, aber du kannst nicht ständig Nachtschichten schieben. Wann hast du überhaupt das letzte Mal bei dir zu Hause geschlafen?“

Die Sorge in Leos Blick traf die junge Polizistin komplett unvorbereitet. Sie musste wegschauen, fand die mittlerweile in ihren Schoß liegenden Hände auf einmal sehr interessant und versuchte, keine Mine zu verziehen. Sie hätte nie gedacht, dass jemand aus dem Präsidium sie einmal so klar und deutlich zur Rede stellen würde, wegen ihrer Arbeitswut. Sie konnte ihm ja schlecht sagen, dass sie nicht nach Hause gehen wollte; dass es dort nichts gab, außer leeren Pizzakartons, gesammelten Pfandflaschen aus einem Jahr und dem kalten Kühlschranklicht. Sie konnte nicht schlafen – ob sie zu Hause auf dem Bett in ihrer Ein-Zimmer-Wohnung oder hier im Büro wach lag machte letztlich keinen Unterschied. Aber das war ihr Problem und vor allem ihr Geheimnis. Nichts, womit irgendwer belastet werden musste…

„Okay, pass auf,“ sagte Leo schließlich, mit einer Stimme, die seine Sorge nicht länger durch Lautstärke, sondern durch Behutsamkeit ausdrückte. Er schob ihren Schreibtischstuhl in Richtung der Garderobe. Pia hielt sich schnell an ihren Armlehnen fest, zu überrascht, um zu protestieren. „Du nimmst jetzt das,“ Leo ließ vom Stuhl ab und schnappte Pias Jacke vom Haken. Sie griff instinktiv danach, als er sie nach ihr warf. „Und das!“ Die zugeworfene Tasche ließ sie beinahe fallen und funkelte Leo dafür entnervt an. Er grinste nur. „Und dann verfrachte ich dich auf mein Schlafsofa. Einverstanden? Schön.“

Natürlich ließ er ihr nicht genug Zeit, um zu antworten. Er griff einfach nach ihrem Arm und zog vorsichtig daran, um sie auf die Beine zu zwingen. Als sie aufgerichtet vor ihm stand, riss sie ihren Arm los und blitzte ihn verärgert an. Sie verspürte einen Schwall von Wut in sich aufsteigen und wollte sie grade auf ihn loslassen, als Leos ruhiger Gesichtsausdruck ihr begegnete. Sein Blick schien zu sagen es-ist-schon-klar-du-willst-nicht-nach-Hause-gehen-warum-auch-immer-ist-doch-egal-bei-mir-ists-ganz-nett. Plötzlich fühlte sie sich unendlich müde und erschöpft und jedes ihrer Körperteile schien sie um Ruhe anzuflehen.

Zur Antwort auf Leos wenig optionale Frage zuckte sie also bloß mit den Schultern und brachte ein vages Nicken zustande.

„Na komm,“ entgegnete Leo behutsam und legte ihr die Hand auf die Schulter, um sie zur Tür zu leiten. Tatsächlich war sie unsicher, wie gut sie zu Fuß unterwegs gewesen wäre, ohne diese körperliche Unterstützung auf dem Weg aus dem Präsidium und zu seinem Auto.

Er nahm ihr die Tasche ab, um sie ihm Kofferraum zu verstauen. Erst der Verlust des Gewichts erinnerte Pia daran, dass sie die überhaupt umgehängt hatte. Sie erschrak über sich selbst und blickte Leo reflexartig an, als ob sie überprüfen wollte, ob er auch so erschrocken war. Doch ihr Kollege schien seine Sorge nun besser verbergen zu können – statt zusätzlichen Schrecks, fand sie nur ein Grinsen auf seinen Zügen.

„Schlafen bitte noch kurz aufschieben,“ mahnte er schmunzelnd und kicherte sogar, als sie ihn nachäffte.

„Was läuft denn in deinem Auto gleich für Musik?“ Pia schüttelte leicht ihre Hände aus, um wieder mehr Gefühl in ihren Körper zu bekommen. Ein bisschen Scham über ihre Unaufmerksamkeit hatte ihr Gesicht immerhin schon frisch durchblutet. „Damit ich weiß, ob ich mir die Ohren zuhalten muss…“

Das breite Lächeln auf Leos Gesicht wurde bloß noch breiter. „Na, vielen Dank auch!“

Pia zuckte unschuldig mit den Schultern. Ihr Kollege ging auf die Fahrertür zu und holte sein Handy hervor. Über das Dach des Autos schob er es auf sie zu – und sie war erleichtert, wach genug zu sein, um es nicht fallen zu lassen.

„Ist mit Bluetooth verbunden. Such du was aus!“

Einen Moment lang stand Pia reglos neben der Beifahrertür und hielt das Handy wie einen völlig fremden Gegenstand vor ihre Brust. Die Gedanken überschlugen sich förmlich in ihrem Kopf. Warum tat Leo das? Würde sie sich in seiner Wohnung nicht wie ein Eindringling fühlen? Wann hatte sie das letzte Mal bei Freunden übernachtet? Warum konnte sie es nicht mit sich selbst aushalten?

Ihr wurde klar, dass Leo sie nicht wirklich zwingen würde, mit zu ihm zu kommen. Sie hatte die Wahl, konnte immer noch sagen, dass sie sehr gut auf sich selbst aufpassen konnte und definitiv nichts von seiner Schlafcouch hielt. Aber die Vorstellung, mit ihren Gedanken alleine in der Tiefgarage zurück zu bleiben, während Leos Rücklichter sich immer weiter von ihr entfernten war schier unerträglich. Vermutlich brauchte sie diese Schlafcouch mehr als andersherum.

Sie schloss die Augen, atmete tief durch und stieg dann ein. „Wenn der Pin-Code auf deinem Handy 2326 ist, lach ich dich aus.“

Leo runzelte die Stirn. „Wie meinst du das?“

Sie verriet ihm nicht, dass es sich um die Zahlen-Kombination für den Namen ‚Adam‘ handelte, sondern schüttelte stattdessen den Kopf darüber, dass er sich für 1234 entschieden hatte.

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Während Leo das Sofa umfunktionierte, sah Pia sich im Wohnzimmer um.

Ihr Kollege hatte ein Regal voller Bücher und DVDs. Schwarze Lampen waren auf verschiedenen Kommoden und Regalen verteilt und tauchten das Zimmer in ein gemütliches, orange-goldenes Licht. Pia fühlte sich umgehend geborgen. In einem Rahmen entdeckte sie ein Foto von Leo mit seiner Schwester Caro, wie sie auf irgendeiner Bergspitze in die Kamera lachten. Auf einem kleinen Weinregal mit ins Holz eingelassenen Halbkreisen, schmiegten sich drei Rotweinflaschen aneinander. Pflanzen hatte Leo keine und das beruhigte Pia ungemein, da sie daraus schloss, dass sie bei ihm genauso lange überleben würden, wie bei ihr…

Das graue Sofa, aus dessen Inneren eine Decke und ein paar Kissen zum Vorschein kamen, wirkte so viel einladender als ihr quietschendes Metallbett. Allgemein sah Leos Wohnzimmer viel mehr aus wie ein echtes Zimmer aus einem echten Leben. Sie fragte sich, warum sie in ihrem eigenen „Zuhause“ diese Atmosphäre nicht kreieren konnte – oder wollte.

„Bitte schön!“ Das freundliche Summen ihres Kollegen riss Pia aus ihren Gedanken. Sie wandte den Blick ab von der kleinen Küche und der Tür, die zu Leos Schlafzimmer führte. Zufrieden deutete Leo auf das frisch bezogene Bettzeug. Der blaue Stoff sah sehr weich und gemütlich aus und Pia verspürte eine irrationale Vorfreude auf den Moment, in dem nur noch ihre Nase daraus hervorlugen würde.

Leo schien ihre Freude zu registrieren, denn seine Mundwinkel entspannten sich sichtlich, als Pia näher trat.

„Ich hoffe, du wirst dich wohlfühlen.“

„Danke, Leo.“ Pia nickte, nun doch ein bisschen beschämt von der Gesamtsituation. Sie wollte kein schlechter Gast sein, jetzt wo Leo sie zu sich nach Hause eingeladen hatte – aber sie hatte Hunger und Durst, kein Nachthemd und auch keine Zahnbürste. Sie war jedoch felsenfest entschlossen, nichts davon anzusprechen. Auf gar keinen Fall wollte sie als unangenehme Schnorrerin wahrgenommen werden. Und wer weiß, vielleicht gab es im Falle einer Übernachtung ja allgemeine Regeln, von denen auf der ganzen Welt einzig und allein Pia nichts wusste.

Leo machte der Gedankenkette in ihrem Kopf ein Ende, nachdem er selbst kurze Zeit nachdenklich den Kopf zur Seite gelegt hatte. „In Ordnung, pass auf: Wasser kannst du dir jederzeit aus dem Hahn in der Küche holen, ich hol dir gleich ein Glas. Für die Nacht gebe ich dir ein T-Shirt und eine Jogginghose von mir. Und Duschen kannst du natürlich auch gerne, ich leg dir ein Handtuch hin. Das Bad ist direkt neben der Eingangstür.“ Leo machte einen Schritt auf den schmalen Flur zu und deutete in die Richtung der Badezimmertür. Er kratzte sich am Hinterkopf. „Habe ich noch etwas vergessen?“

Pia lächelte ihn an. Sie hatte Leo schon immer gern gehabt. Er war ein nachdenklicher Mensch, der dazu neigte, sich zu viele Sorgen zu machen und in ihnen zu verschwinden wie ein Mann im Nebel. Aber er konnte auch wahnsinnig lustig sein, manchmal impulsiv, manchmal reumütig und selten gemein. Seit Adam Teil des Teams war, hatte sie noch viel mehr Facetten an ihm kennengelernt und sich oft gefragt, wie lange es wohl dauern würde, bis die beiden offiziell zusammen kamen. Falls es denn je soweit kam… Sie wusste von sich selbst, dass sie nie den Mut haben würde, auf Esther zuzugehen, den ersten Schritt zu machen. Vielleicht war die Situation bei Leo und Adam ähnlich vertrackt.

„Du hast an alles gedacht,“ entgegnete Pia nun auf die Frage ihres Kollegen und strich vorfreudig über die sanfte, blaue Baumwolle ihrer Zudecke für die Nacht. Zahnbürste und Essen waren ohnehin nicht wichtig; sie würde auch eine Nacht ohne auskommen. Natürlich knurrte ihr Magen genau in diesem Moment so laut, dass auch Leo es hören konnte. Er griff sich bestürzt an den Kopf.

„Du hast Hunger. Natürlich hast du Hunger! Dagegen lässt sich etwas unternehmen. Komm mit!“ Das Leuchten in seinen Augen, als er schnurstracks Richtung Mini-Küche aufbrach und sie mit Handzeichen dazu aufforderte, es ihm gleichzutun, verriet Pia, dass die Idee, ihr einen Snack zuzubereiten ihn mit komplett unverständlicher Vorfreude erfüllte – während sie selbst innerlich erstarrte. Schnell lief sie hinter ihm her.

„Nein, Leo, das brauchst du nicht, wirklich. Ich brauche nichts. Mach dir keine Mühe. Ich faste einfach heute Abend, gar kein Problem…“

Der Kühlschrank war bereits geöffnet und Leo stand mit dem Rücken zu ihr davor. Selbst das Licht aus der Kühlung sah hier gemütlicher aus, als in ihrer eigenen Wohnung…

Mit schmalen Augen sah Leo über seine Schulter zu Pia zurück. Im Türrahmen stehend war sie kaum drei Schritte von ihm entfernt, so schmal war die Nische zum Kochen. Unter dem Fenster gab es eine an der Wand angebrachte Tischplatte mit zwei hohen Stühlen. Der Kühlschrank bildete das Bindeglied zwischen diesem Tisch und der Arbeitsplatte, unter der sich Waschmaschine und Ofen aneinanderreihten. Pia zupfte nervös an ihren Fingern. Sie konnte mit dieser Aufmerksamkeit wirklich nicht gut umgehen…

„Isst du Eier?“

Pia ließ entwaffnet die Schultern sinken und sah ihren Kollegen lange an, bevor sie ein leises „Ja.“ hervorstieß.

„Dann setz dich und mach noch mehr Musik von diesem Gregory Porter an! Hat mir sehr gut gefallen!“ Leo legte sein Handy auf die Tischplatte, drückte mit dem Finger auf den Anschaltknopf einer unscheinbaren Bluetooth-Box und begann, verschiedene Utensilien vom Kühlschrank auf die Arbeitsplatte zu legen.

Pia starrte ihn an und spürte etwas in ihrer Brust, das sie schon lange nicht mehr gespürt hatte. Leichtigkeit? Geborgenheit? Es war ganz klein und zart, aber der Effekt war atemberaubend. Wortwörtlich. Sie spürte, wie ihr Hals zu brennen begann, wie er zuckte und kämpfte. Ihre Lippen pressten sich fest aufeinander. Stumm begab sie sich zu dem Stuhl, von dem aus sie Leos beim Kochen beobachten konnte und legte die Ellbogen auf dem hellen Holz ab.

Sie blinzelte gegen den Schleier an, der ihr den Blick auf Leos Handybilschirm erschwerte und fand schnell die Spotify-Playlist, die sie bereits im Auto gehört hatten. Die sanfte Stimme von Gregory Porter tauchte die winzige Kochecke in eine Oase. Pia presste noch immer fest die Lippen zusammen und zuckte zusammen, als Leo einen Schritt auf sie zu tat und seine Hand auf ihren Unterarm legte. Er sah sie mit einem Lächeln an, das gleichzeitig Verständnis und akzeptiertes Unverständnis äußerte und schien sie förmlich dazu einzuladen, ihre Gefühle einfach zuzulassen. Sie verstand, dass er sie nicht verurteilte. Für nichts von alldem. Weder für die Nachtschichten im Präsidium, noch für ihren Wunsch, nicht alleine zu sein, noch für ihre Präsenz in seiner Wohnung und allem, was damit einherging.

Als ihr die Tränen über die Wangen rollten, kam kein Ton aus ihrer Kehle. Da war nur der Gesang von Gregory Porter, das leise Brutzeln von erhitztem Öl in einer Pfanne und Leos leises Summen. Als er ihren Kopf an seine Schulter zog, verwandelte er sich in einen Klangkörper, das Summen wie ein Herzschlag, der sich von seinem Körper auf ihren übertrug. Sie schluchzte ganz leise, während er ihren Nacken umschlossen hielt und die Tränen mit seinem grünen T-Shirt aufsaugte.

Sie konnte das nicht verstehen und er erst recht nicht. Aber Pias Seele schien durch den Tränenverlust endlich Platz zu machen – für Wärme und Freundlichkeit und Ruhe. Während das T-Shirt immer dunkler wurde, wurde Pias Herz zunehmend leichter. Leo war in diesem Moment wie ein Bruder, eine Vertrauter, den Pia in ihrem Leben nie gehabt hatte. Er verharrte in seiner tröstenden Position bis Pias leises Schluchzen verebbte. Dann ließ er sie langsam den Kopf anheben und verlagerte seine Hand von ihrem Nacken auf ihre Schulter. Seine Finger umschlossen diese ganz fest und als Pia seinem Blick begegnete sah sie einen kleinen Funken, der zu sagen schien „Nur Mut!“ Es brachte sie zum Lächeln – wobei sie spürte, dass ihre Wangen und ihre Augen schrecklich angeschwollen sein mussten.

Sie wechselten kein Wort miteinander. Leo griff nach einer Packung Taschentücher und legte sie vor Pia auf die Tischplatte, ohne aufzuhören, vor sich hin zu summen. Dann wandte er sich wieder der Pfanne zu, holte zwei Freilandeier aus ihrem Karton und richtete ein paar Scheiben Brot auf einem Teller an, die er mit Käse belegte.

Pia atmete ruhig und legte ihre kühlen Fingerspitzen auf ihre erhitzten Wangen. Das leise Lächeln verharrte auf ihrem Gesicht und wenn Leo von der Pfanne zu ihr hochblickte, mussten sie beide ein bisschen lachen. Das tat Pia unglaublich gut. Zumindest mussten sie sich nicht so schrecklich ernst nehmen. Wenn das Freundschaft war, dann musste Pia feststellen, dass sie davon dringend etwas benötigt hatte.

„Du wirst es nicht glauben,“ brach Leo schließlich das Schweigen und sah sie bedeutungsschwanger an, „aber ich habe Fruchtzwergeeis.“

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Sie lagen ausgestreckt nebeneinander auf der Schlafcoach, die Köpfe an der Lehne aufgerichtet, und knabberten an einem Erdbeer- und einem Himbeereis. Der Duft von gebratenem Spiegelei lag noch in der Luft, doch Leo hatte das Fenster in der Küche geöffnet und der Geruch zog zunehmend ab.

Gregory Porter war verstummt. Pia trug mittlerweile eine viel zu große Adidas Jogginghose und das lustigste T-Shirt das Leo finden konnte – es zeigte einen Hai, der „Hi“ sagte… Nach dem Abendessen hatten sie sich beide rasch umgezogen. Leo war in einen Pyjama geschlüpft, der überraschend bunt war – das rote Shirt aus weichem Fleece lud dazu ein, sich an ihn anzukuscheln, aber Pia traute sich das nicht. Es war mittlerweile beinahe Mitternacht, doch Leo schien sehr selig und keineswegs müde zu sein, wie er da neben ihr sein Erdbeereis vertilgte.

Sie musste unwillkürlich grinsen und schüttelte leicht den Kopf. „Ich kann nicht glauben, dass die immer noch so gut schmecken, wie vor zwanzig Jahren!“

Leo brummte mit inbrünstiger Zustimmung und hob sein Eis hoch, als würde er jemandem zuprosten. „Amen!“

Das brachte sie zum Lachen. Es tat gut zu lachen, nachdem sie so doll geweint hatte. Sie fühlte sich auf gewisse Weise gereinigt, als ob ihre Tränen einmal ihren ganzen Kreislauf durchgespült hätten.

„Meinst du, du wirst heute Nacht gut hier schlafen können?“

Pia legte den Kopf schief und begegnete Leos behutsamem Blick. Sie wusste, dass er sie keinem Verhör unterziehen würde, dass er nicht nachfragen würde, warum sie so traurig war und dafür war sie ihm dankbar. Doch er schien unsicher zu sein, was er überhaupt fragen durfte. Er wollte sie auf keinen Fall vor den Kopf stoßen und das brachte sie erneut zum Lächeln.

„Ich weiß nicht,“ antwortete sie wahrheitsgemäß und nibbelte nochmal an ihrem Eis, „ich hoffe es. Aber so oder so ist das hier schon die beste aller möglichen Versionen, wie mein Abend hätte verlaufen können.“

Leo lächelte und Pia verspürte erneut das Bedürfnis, sich an ihn anzuschmiegen. Sie war ihm unendlich dankbar für alles, was er bereits an diesem Abend für sie getan hatte und irgendwie musste sie ihn es wissen lassen.

„Wirklich die beste?“ fragte Leo etwas verschmitzt und Pia wurde umgehend hellhörig. Sie verengte ihre Augen zu schmalen Schlitzen und ließ ihren Fruchtzwergstiel sinken.

„Worauf spielen Sie an, Herr Hölzer?“

Leo kicherte und begann dann einen Singsang, der Pia das Blut ins Gesicht schießen ließ. „Esther und Pia sitzen in einem See, K-Ü-S-S-E-N-D..“

„Ey, Leo, du bist so ein Blödmann!!“ Empört schnappte Pia sich ein Kissen und begann, auf ihren Kollegen einzudreschen, während der verzweifelt sein Eis in die Höhe hielt. Zwischen prustendem Lachen bat er sie lauthals aufzuhören und Pia ließ nach einigen weiteren fluffigen Schlägen wirklich von ihm ab.

Leo kicherte noch immer und wischte sich über die Augen. „Das war eine sehr heikle Situation für meinen Fruchtzwerg!“

„Na, dann bring mich nicht dazu, dich zu verhauen!“ Pia zog das Kissen schmollend an ihre Brust. „Warum sagst du überhaupt so etwas über mich und Esther?“

„Ähhh,“ Leo tat so als müsse er nachdenken, „weil ihr ineinander verschossen seid?“

Pia funkelte ihn herausfordernd an und versuchte, ihren Herzschlag zu beruhigen. Ihr Puls war auf 180. „Ach ja? Ach ja??“

Leo schien aus dem Kichern gar nicht mehr herauszukommen. Er verschluckte sich beinahe an seinem letzten Bissen Eis. „Also, offensichtlicher wird’s nicht mehr, oder?“

„Das sagst du! Das sagst grade du mit deinem überdimensionalen Crush auf eine gewissen Adam Schürk!“

Leo erstarrte und sein Grinsen verschwand. Er legte seinen Fruchtzwergstiehl auf den Teller mit den Brotkrümeln und zuckte dann mit den Schultern. „Keine Ahnung, was du meinst.“

Jetzt war es an Pia laut zu lachen. Sie setzte sich aufgeregt hin und legte das Kissen in ihren Schoß. „Willst du mich verarschen? Es würde mich nicht wundern, wenn ihr zwei schon seit Ewigkeiten verheiratet wärt!“

„Die Ehe für alle gibt es noch gar nicht so lange!“ Leo setzte sich ebenfalls gerade hin und versuchte offensichtlich, seine Gefühle nicht preiszugeben. Der unbeeindruckte Gesichtsausdruck war das Ergebnis stundenlangen Übens vor dem Spiegel, das erkannte Pia sofort.

„Du brauchst gar nicht das Thema wechseln. Es ist ja nicht mal so, dass ihr euch bloß attraktiv findet. Ihr seid total ineinander verwebt, eure Leben ergeben irgendwie bloß miteinander Sinn. Das ist total romantisch!“

Bei dem Wort ‚romantisch‘ verzog Leo vielsagend das Gesicht. Doch Pias Worte schienen dennoch Eindruck auf ihn zu machen, danach zu urteilen, wie seine blauen Augen sich gedanklich nach innen kehrten.

„Findest du?“ fragte er und auf einmal sah er sehr verletzlich aus. Jetzt war der Moment. Pia griff nach Leos Schulter, löste ihren Schneidersitz auf und krabbelte so nah an ihn heran, dass sie ihren Kopf auf seiner Brust ablegen konnte. Ihre Hände verschwanden beinahe in dem roten Fleecestoff auf seinem Bauch. Es war wirklich schön, sich einfach an ihn anzukuscheln wie an einen lebensgroßen Teddybären. Nur dass dieser Teddybär eine eigene Körperwärme besaß und Arme, die sich selbstständig bewegen konnte. Pia seufzte zufrieden, als Leo mit der linken Hand sein rechtes Handgelenk genau über ihrem Rücken umfasste und sie somit in Wärme und Geborgenheit tauchte. Auf einmal war es eine Lebensaufgabe, ihre brennenden Augen offen zu halten. Sie war so müde.

„Ja, das finde ich nicht nur. Das ist ganz einfach die Realität,“ brachte sie nuschelnd hervor.

Leo schnaubte und schaukelte sie leicht in seinen Armen. Eine Weile verharrten sie so. Dann meldete sich Leo wieder zu Wort. „Wenn du glaubst, dass ich das Baumann-Thema einfach so unter den Teppich kehren werde, dann irrst du dich gewaltig!“

„Ach ja?“ Pia vergrub versuchsweise die Finger im Fleece, genau dort wo Leos Rippen endeten und war entzückt, als er nach Luft schnappte und zu zappeln begann.

„Kitzel mich und du erlebst dein blaues Wunder,“ warnte ihr Kollege – und Freund – und drückte mit den Händen etwas fester gegen ihren Rücken.

Pia kicherte leise und legte ihre Hand wieder friedlich auf Leos Bauch. Das würde sie irgendwann nochmal genauer austesten, aber in genau diesem Moment fürchtete sie sich zu sehr vor seiner Rache. Sie war stark, doch er war ganz klar stärker als sie.

„Keine Sorge, ich bin sowieso viel zu müde,“ säuselte Pia verschwindend leise und kuschelte sich noch tiefer in Leos Schlafshirt.

Leo entspannte sich unter ihren immer regelmäßigeren Atemzügen und streichelte sanft über Pias Oberarm.

„Das wird schon alles wieder,“ hörte sie ihn noch summen, dann schlief sie ein, ruhig und entspannt, ohne Angst und ohne wirre Gedanken.

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Sie wachte gegen sechs Uhr morgens auf. Die Decke war um ihre Schultern gezogen worden. Ihr Handy lag am Strom. Leo hatte sich irgendwie unter ihr herausgeschlängelt und war in sein Schlafzimmer verschwunden.

Zum ersten Mal seit langer Zeit verspürte Pia nach dem Aufwachen den Impuls zu lächeln.

Sie seufzte zufrieden, auch wenn ihr Rücken weh tat, auch wenn ihr Mund sie gnadenlos darauf hinwies, dass sie sich nicht die Zähne geputzt hatte, auch wenn es immer noch ein bisschen nach gebratenem Spiegelei roch. Sie war glücklich und ausgeruht. Denn sie war gar nicht so alleine, wie sie immer gedacht hatte.

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