#dwelling into these topics is just fun and i think they did it really well and again i think wrio is incredibly well written | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

itsstrange · 14 days

Text

The Promise

Relationship: Rip Wheeler x Reader

Fandom: Yellowstone

A/N: A small idea I had while daydreaming at work, hope y’all like it. 🥹

Summary: Saying Goodbye Is Always The Hardest. So Is Keeping A Promise.

Word Count: 4.7k

Warnings: (No) Angst, Mention of Military, Farewells, A Little Sad Moment, Angry Rip, Sad Rip, Arguments, Small Confessions.

————

ENJOY 🐎

————

——————————

“So… you’re really goin’ back?”

You look up, meeting his eyes before averting them back down to your duffel bag where you toss the stack of clothes inside. The clothes that have been folded, locked away underneath the bed for the past five years. The clothes you swore you wouldn’t wear again, wouldn’t dare to see until you had kids in the future to explain to them why you had a pile of clothes and photos locked away in some old worn trunk that dusted away underneath your bed.

Unfortunately it didn’t last to reach that day because here you are, packing away the clothes into your tactical duffel bag that was also locked away.

“How long?”

You inhale deeply through your nose before slowly exhaling, still not meeting their gaze you continue packing away, placing the frame photo of you and the boys in the center before zipping the duffel shut.

“Not sure.. too early to say,” You answer as you move the bag to the foot of the bed before sitting down,

“When do you leave?”

You swallow, feeling the way your chest tightens at the thought, “Tomorrow, before sunrise,”

Thick silence hovers the room. Everyone thinking and feeling the same thoughts, emotions.

“And why are you going back again?”

“Will you morons knock it off with the questions,” Lloyd’s husky voice bouncing off the wooden walls brings a small smile and a chuckle from you,

“A buddy of mine needs help,” You still answer Jimmy’s question, which he doesn’t respond with another mostly because he can see the way Lloyd gives him the look,

No other questions were sent your way, neither of them wanting a look from Lloyd as well, nor did they want you to dwell on the heavy mood that hovered. So instead, Ryan and Colby were the first to bring up a farewell party, change of topic. You kindly decline their idea, but of course neither men listens to you.

As Ryan and Colby begin listing items on what to bring for the farewell bonfire, and yelling at one another on who gets to keep your bunk (because it’s the closest one to the bathroom) you couldn’t help the small chuckle that falls from your lips. You were really going to miss every single person in this room. Despite them making you lose a few strands of hair from their idiotic actions, and constant bar brawls, you were surely going to miss them.

They made every other day interesting, every night annoying and fun at the same time with their childlike games that they come up with that sometimes leaves them with bruises or a chipped tooth. Everyday, every night, they made it special and you were definitely gonna miss it.

“Hey I’m not leaving just yet, I still got the whole day and the night before y’all start fighting over my bunk,” You say as you stand from the bed, punching both men on their shoulders,

They both share a laugh with you as they continue listing whatever alcohol they should buy, asking if you preferred hotdogs or burgers as you all walked out the house.

Saying goodbye to them was hard, but not as hard as it’s gonna be when you say it to him. Now that.. that will definitely break your heart. The look in his eyes when you tell him, you can already picture them and from the way your chest tightens, you know it’ll be difficult.

*******

You were currently feeding the rest of the horses inside the stables. Marking down the ones who needed a wash and a trim, which stables needed cleaning. Same old routine before having to check up on the rest of the animals, considering your main job at the ranch was analyzing and tracking the animals health. You weren’t exactly a veterinarian, but you learned a few things throughout the years which John persuaded you to take up on his offer of being in charge of the animals when it came to their monthly health checkups. So of course you took classes to advance your knowledge, to help around the ranch, make it easier for the old timer.

Yes he did have actual trained, experienced, veterinarians working on his animals before, but knowing how you easily picked up the job, how much love and care you gave to the livestock, he knew it was a good investment on both parts. Besides, he trusted you dearly in that department.

Hours had flown by, nearing six o’clock in the afternoon as you were finishing up in the stables before heading out to help Lloyd and the boys to check out some of the cows that were further up in the land. As well as putting up a new fence since the one hanging on was already rusting away due to the weather these past few days, as well as some idiotic trespassers cutting through the fence simply to test the Dutton family.

Just as you throw some fresh hay into one of the stables and patted the horse in its neck as he eats his dinner, the sound of loud rough boots marching against the ground ring in your ears.

“Were you ever gonna tell me?” His loud, rough voice settles behind you, words firm as you dumped hay into the last stable,

You sigh, taking off your gloves and placing them in your back pocket before looking up at him. Eyes wide, angry, betrayal, and fear were written in them. Just like you pictured.

“Yes.. I was,”

“When? Tomorrow? When you leave apparently?” Betrayal can be heard in his voice, blue eyes confirming his tone,

“There hasn’t been a good time to let you know,” You tell him, voice calm, tired, heartbroken,

It wasn’t a lie. When he had gotten back from running an errand with Kayce you were determined to lay it on him, but things got hectic that you weren’t even able to spare him a word. It remained that way for the rest of the day, work after work, problem after problem, when lunch came around he wasn’t at the table eating his supper with everyone else, he was out with Dutton, doing the man a favor, so wanting to talk to him during lunch didn’t happen like you were hoping for.

You told yourself you’d let him know when he came back, but apparently he was out and about with Dutton for the rest of the day. So by the time he had came back was at this very moment, catching you feeding the horses inside the stables. Dutton must’ve told him at some point during their errand runs, who else could have? You weren’t annoyed it was your boss who gave him the news, but you were hoping it’d be you who told him because it came from you, no one else.

“Do you not remember what that place did to you?!” He harshly whispers, taking a step closer to you, “Cause I sure as hell can!”

You lower your gaze to the floor with a faint sigh at his words. Of course you remember. How can one forget something like that? The constant nightmares, the flashbacks, mood swings, not knowing what was real or not, the cold sweats, all of it you remember. The first few weeks of being home after being honorably discharged were rather difficult, your body knew it was home, safe, but your mind was still at war. Constant nightmares played in your in head, bullets flying everywhere, blood stains surrounding you, staining your hands and vest. Screams echoing in your mind on a daily from those who were gunned down, who were injured and were slowly bleeding out in your hands.

It was an everyday thing. The boys, Rip, would beg you to get help, to talk to someone, but you’d just shrug them off telling them you were fine, that it’ll pass.

But you were in fact not okay and the nightmares never ceased.

It was after one particular night that everything had changed. The one night that had you finally reaching out for help, the night that had you admitting that you were not okay.

You had been home for two weeks when it had happened. All it took was a hectic, drunken brawl to trigger the episode. One minute you’re enjoying your beer, slightly laughing at a joke that one of the boys shared, letting lose to ease the noise in your head, then the next you’re being pulled off a blonde head who’s face was nearly disfigured beneath you. Blood covering her once fresh face and clean hair, along with your hands that shook from adrenaline, anger, fear, shell shock.

Once Rip got word of what happened he stormed his way to the bunkhouse which is where he had found you staring at your own reflection in the bathroom. The way a cold and lost look was written in your eyes will forever be embedded in his mind. It wasn’t you who stood standing in front of the mirror with tensed shoulders, hair a mess from sweat and dried blood, the real you was trapped in your mind.

It nearly took all night to bring you back, but not once did he give up.

“Rip,” You softly call his name with an exhausted sigh as you close the door to the stable,

“No. You’re not going!” Blue eyes widening more with fear and rage,

“Yes I am,” You respond in a whisper, “They need me,”

“And we need you here!” I need you here.

It was what he should’ve said, but he didn’t. He couldn’t. Wasn’t exactly how he wanted to let you know the truth, wanted to do it the right way, a more intimate, genuine way. But now, he’s out of time. And most likely lost his chance.

He lost you.

“Rip-,” You begin to say but was interrupted by Kacey walking in the stables,

“We’re loaded to fix the fence,” You turn to him before giving him a small nod,

The youngest Dutton switches his gaze from you to the brute man staring intensely at you, knowing then he had walked into something and immediately sensing the tension surrounding the air. He’s felt this mood before, felt tension between you two every so often, but for some reason this time it was stronger, as if one wrong word said would ignite the awaiting flame. So without another word and only a simple nod, he turns to walk away, giving you two privacy. However, you didn’t stick around. Both to just get the day over with and also to postpone the argument.

If you even get a chance to talk about it with him again.

You hear Rip call out to you as you walk out the stables, halting your steps. You glance over your shoulder, meeting his eyes, but no words were said, so instead you let out a sad sigh through your nose as you continue walking out the building. Leaving the brute man alone in the stables with angered thoughts.

*****

Hours had flown by. After fixing the fence, which took nearly the whole day since it was worse than anyone thought, doing daily health checks on the animals, running a quick errand with Beth, everyone was finally able to wash up and spend the remaining hours with you. Everyone sat around the bonfire sharing stories about anything and everything, chatter, laughter and music can be heard in the darkened night.

Empty beer and whiskey bottles, sticks with dried marshmallows and chocolate littered the ground around everyone’s feet. It was a night you’d deeply remember, a night you’d miss, a night you wished would happen every Friday, but you knew it wouldn’t be possible. At least not with you. Not anymore. You tried keeping a strong face, positive thoughts, positive energy, for the sake of everyone around you. They all had high hopes of you coming back home, claiming you’d be home in less than two months because you were tough as a bull, but you knew the truth. The reality of it all.

Obviously you didn’t remind them of the truth, didn’t want to take away the little happiness they held onto for you, the strong faith they had. So all you did was smile at them, raise your glass and down the last bit of your drink. Every so often you’d get lost in your thoughts, thinking of the mission, the serious consequences, the challenges that will come with it, the horror you’ll soon face, but before you can trap yourself in such thoughts they were there to bring you back. Invite you to their conversations, their stories they were sharing, their jokes, which you were thankful for.

What you didn’t notice was the way a pair of blue eyes have been secretly staring at you from across the fire pit. A dark corner where the fire barely illuminated his features. Light or not he didn’t care if he was caught staring at you, everyone was able to read his opinion of the whole situation but no one dared to ask him about it. He was already a fumed bull waiting to be provoked.

There were times where you’d glance up and catch him staring, but not once did you confront him. Making a scene in front of everyone was the last thing you wanted, so you ignored him and his glaring daggers.

Although, at one point during the night, Colby was the one to mention they had ran out of marshmallows, which you volunteered to grab the extra pack from the bunk house. Slightly buzzed you make your way through the Dutton ranch with sluggish steps till you push open the door to the bunks. Walking to the kitchen you grab the new pack of marshmallows sitting on the counter along with another couple chocolate bars. Just as you turn to head back out, your steps come to a stop when you see Rip standing by the couch.

Face emotionless, but eyes dark, red. Was he crying?

“Havin’ fun?” Rip questions, tone cold and firm, yet his blue eyes have another written emotion in them,

You shrug a shoulder, “Tryin’,”

He scoffs, “Yeah I see that.. but it ain’t workin’,”

You knew exactly what he was referring to. The constant lost in thought when the conversation was directed somewhere else. What you didn’t know until now was those same eyes that have been staring at you from the dark were analyzing you throughout the entire night. Watching the way your smile quickly faded as you once again lost yourself in your thoughts, watching the way your fingers peeled off the label from your beer bottle, the way your leg bounced uncontrollably from nerves, fear, and anxiousness. He knew you were afraid, he read you perfectly, but he knew nothing he’d say would change your mind. Not now, not ever.

You were stubborn like a goddamn mule.

“Yeah well, it’s a little hard to have fun when I got two sets of eyes throwing daggers at me all night,” You say, matching his tone as you stare into his eyes,

Heavy tension once again surrounds you two, the muffled music coming from outside was the only thing that can be heard in the room. Neither of you said anything for a good minute or so, just staring at one another with pain written in both your eyes with tears threatening to build. This wasn’t how you wanted to give your farewells to him. Having an argument with him before you left was something you did not want, but yet here you are.

“Can we just..,” You pause, letting out an exhausted sigh before continuing, “Enjoy the rest of the night before I have to catch a flight in a few hours?”

Rip stares deep in your eyes. Hurt, sadness, anger, and fear were written in his blue ones, they were easy to read, especially when he stared at you the way he was staring. He didn’t bother to hide it, yet he didn’t express it to you verbally. Not like he had to or wanted to, it was obvious on how he felt of the whole situation.

“They’re out there celebrating your death..,” He says pointing a long finger at the door then continues with, “.. and I ain’t being apart of it,”

His voice slightly breaks with each word. His blue eyes standing out more when tears begin building, but not one dares to slide down his cheeks, at least not in front of you. Not saying another word, he turns around and heads out the door with a harsh shove that has it banging against the wall.

Whatever string was left holding your heart in place had finally snapped as you watched the door shut behind him. The last memory you’d have of him. This wasn’t how you wanted to leave things with him, he was the only one who could have helped you through it, fought through the dark times, the constant noises in your head. He was the only one who you stayed alive for while you were out in the field, but now that he’s walked away, not wanting any part of it, you didn’t know if it was even worth staying alive once you landed on base. He was your anchor to it all.

And now you’d be stranded in the dark, drowning with nothing to hold you upright. Keep you up float when you felt like sinking, when you felt like the water was too strong for your fighting body. The one person who could’ve saved you from it all was now walking away, leaving you alone.

‘Maybe it was for the best.’

You tell to yourself. You convince yourself. Maybe him not being apart of it, apart of your life would one day guide him to a better life with the love of his life, guide him to someone who can make him happier, stronger, happier.

It was for the best that he left.

*****

4:30 am

Throwing your duffle and backpack in the backseat you shut the door before facing the small crowd. You give everyone a big hug, including the man himself, John Dutton who hugged you for a good long minute before being slightly shoved by Beth who took you in a stronghold as she secretly let the tears fall down her cheeks. You don’t know how, but you kept your own tears from spilling down. Once departing from the woman you go ahead and start hugging the cowboys, sharing a few laughs with them as they joke with you one last time. Which you appreciated their effort in trying to lighten things up, but you knew they knew nothing they can say now will help. But still, you appreciate it.

“So.. who won?” You say when Ryan and Colby stand in front of you,

They both share a look, small smile forming on their lips, “Neither,” Colby says,

You give them a confused look, but Ryan continues with, “We decided to leave it ready for you when you come back,”

Come back. Something you knew was a big word at the moment.

“Can’t have it ready forever,” You say with a sad chuckle,

“We can and we will,” Ryan firmly states, letting you know no one will come near the empty bed unless it’s you,

It was a faint demand from them. They wanted you to come back, no matter how hard it will be, they demanded that you come back to reclaim your bed at the bunkhouse, and that alone brought the ball back in your throat.

“Gonna miss you dorks,” You manage to say before quickly bringing them both for a group hug,

Both men wrap their arms around you, burying their faces in your hair as they cherish the moment. As you go to pull away both their hands on either side of your hip tighten, not wanting the hug to end, but eventually step away from you.

You give them a small smile and then a small wave to everyone huddle in front of you before turning around to climb into the truck where Roscoe patiently waited for you.

“Ready?” The soldier asks as you take one last glance out the window, watching everyone wave at you with saddened smiles, the ranch standing tall and beautifully behind them.

Letting out a small sigh you give him a nod.

In a matter of seconds the truck roars to life before beginning to move down the driveway and out of the Duttons ranch. Silence engulfs the car, only the sound of the radio softly playing in the speakers is heard. Leaning your head against the headrest behind you, you let your mind drift away, thinking about everyone at the ranch, playing their faces in your mind to not forget them, your fingers softly playing with a small deer origami that Tate had made for you last night for good luck. Then thinking about him once again.

Remembering how things were left between you two. Wishing you could’ve fixed things before you left, wished you could’ve said the truth, wished he could’ve have given you the chance to let you show him just how much he meant to you. But he didn’t. None of it happened.

So now, all you’ll think about is What If.

While driving halfway out the ranch and you still being lost in thought, you didn’t capture the moment a large black figure blending in the dark speeding in your direction until the truck comes to an abrupt stop. Causing your seatbelt to lock just in time to catch your body from going forward.

“The fuck?” Roscoe reacts, putting the gear in park as he eyes the figure that is currently blocking his way,

You clench your jaw as you make eye contact with him, even in the dark and with the only source of light from the headlights you both immediately lock eyes.

Of course it’s Rip on top of his horse. Black hat on his head with his black jacket wrapped on his frame.

“I’ll take care of this,” You say, never breaking eye contact with him as you unbuckle yourself and open the door,

“(Y/n) we don’t have time for this,” Roscoe tries arguing back, but you repeat yourself as you hop off the truck,

Shutting the door and standing by it you face him, where he still remained on top of his horse.

“Rip seriously what is your problem? I don’t have time to deal with you right now!” You yell as the brute man climbs off his horse,

A grim look was written on his face as he makes his way towards you. A look he only has when he’s angry about something, and right about now he’s angry at you, you knew that.

“I swear to god Rip if you don’t get out the way I’m gonna-,” Your words were cut off by a pair of rough lips latching onto yours,

Your eyes grow wide in anger, shock, and confusion. But once you feel the way his hand gently cups the side of your face you realize what exactly is happening and only react back. Your own hands finding their way to his face, fingers slowly tangling themselves in his soft, dark curly hair at the base of his neck. A deep, saddened relieved sigh escapes from you two as you both pour the hidden truth into the kiss. Deepening it and cherishing the moment at the same time, neither one wanting or planning to break it off, but you both knew it had to happen, you had to leave.

Which is why Rip got a little selfish for a second, he deepened the kiss, licking his way into your mouth as he held a tight grip on your hip to not let you out of his hold. Just a few more seconds of this, he had to. If this was the only time he would get this opportunity until you came back home, then he was sure as hell he would take every second that was available to have you in his arms, have your lips molding with his, have your fingers tugging on his hair, have your breath fanning his lips, have both your hot tears smear against his own cheeks. He was taking advantage of the moment because he knew it would be more than a month that he would be able to feel it again. Feel this moment again.

Eventually, you both do break the kiss, but not once did he let an inch form between you two. Leaning his forehead against yours, he lets you both catch a breather from the intense, beautiful moment.

“You come back to me you hear?” He whispers, beautiful blue eyes now searching for your own,

When he finally does find your (E/c) eyes that he has grown to love, he whispers once again, “You come home,”

New tears fall down your cheeks at his words, you knew you couldn’t make such a big promise, especially in your line of work. It was a rule, a rule everyone in the military who serves knew they should never make, because they knew reality was always behind that promise.

You stare into those blue eyes of his that have tears of their own, some finding their way down his rough skin, while the rest build at the brim of his eyes. You knew he knew you couldn’t make that promise, but he knew you’d fight for it no matter what, no matter how impossible it might seem, because he knew you always kept your promise. That’s who you were. Loyal, loving, protective, unafraid, and a true fighter.

You stare into his eyes a little longer, feeling the way another tear slides down your cheeks then feeling the rough pad of his thumb gently wiping it away. The words get caught in your throat, the words where you wanted to tell him to be realistic, to not make you promise anything because disappointment and pain is the only thing he’ll receive, but before you can even force them out you hear your name being called from inside the truck.

“We gotta go,” Roscoe softly says, hating to interrupt the moment, hating to part you from the man you clearly love,

You sniff, looking down at the ground then back up to Rip where he only gives you a small smile.

“C’mon,” Rip whispers as he leads you back into the truck,

Once sitting inside, shutting the door, Rip points at the man behind the wheel before saying, “You look after her you hear?”

Roscoe nods at him, “You’ve got my word man,”

Rip nods back before averting his eye to you. You sat there, tears still slowly sliding down your cheeks, you weren’t ready to say goodbye to him, not after you both finally confessed to each other. Which reminds you, you had to say it, in fear of not being able to ever again.

“Rip I-,” You try but he cuts you off with a shake of his head,

“No. Don’t say it. You say it when you come back,” He demands, small smile tugging on the corner of his lips, “Just know I do too,”

I do too.

You sniff once again, tears falling down as you glance behind him, seeing the ranch and the bunkhouse glow in the background. Memories flash in your mind. All those laughs, tears, injuries that you’ve accumulated over the years with everyone who lives and works at the ranch played in your head, reminding you that you had a family to come back to once again, you had friends who were also waiting for you to come back with open arms. You had a life to get back to.

Come back.

Averting your eyes back to his that had tears of their own falling down his cheeks, you stare at him as you remembered, you had him to come back to. He was your main reason to come back home, he was the reason why you weren’t going to die in the field, he was the reason why you weren’t going to give up when shot down, he was the reason why you weren’t going bleed out. He was your reason why you were coming home.

And if anyone tried stopping you from doing so, then it would be the last thing they ever did.

Because you are coming home.

Reaching a hand out the window, you let your small held cup his bearded cheek before letting your own thumb wipe away the tears that fall down. Looking into his eyes with a firm stare, a promise, you let him hear the words.

“I’m coming home,”

—————

-Ahhh It’s Finally Here!!! I’m Not Kidding I Have Been Going Back & Forth With This One. Mostly Because I Had Writers Block, But Also Because I Would Change A Lot Things & Finding New Ideas To Replace The Old Ones.

-But Again! Thank You To Those Who Have Been Patient & Have Been Waiting For This Wheeler Fic! More To Come!!

-Lastly, Make Sure To Turn On Post Notifications!! 🔔 🔔 For More Updates!

—————

Part 2 ?

#rip wheeler #rip wheeler x ofc #rip wheeler x reader #rip wheeler x female character #rip wheeler x you #rip wheeler smut #Yellowstone #yellowstone x reader #cole hauser #cole hauser x reader #Cole hauser x you #angst with a happy ending #pain and fluff #military fiction

39 notes · View notes

lizisshortforlizard · 7 months

Text

Living Dangerously - Chapter 29

Jurassic Park’s animal handlers: none of them ever mentioned by name in Michael Crichton’s original novel. Who were they? What were their lives like on Isla Nublar? Did any of them survive the disaster?

A year in the life of those responsible for the care of the dinosaurs. Many people would kill to have their jobs.

But would they die for it?

Jurassic Park novel/Jurassic Park film (1993)

Viewpoint: 3rd person female oc

Warnings: ready to have your heart ripped out?

Tagging: @heresthefanfiction @ocappreciation @wordspin-shares @howlingmadlady @arrthurpendragon @themaradwrites @starryeyes2000 @kmc1989 (please lmk if you would like informed of my sporadic updates)

Read on Ao3

Chapter 28 | Chapter 30

Living After Midnight - Judas Priest

Over the constant hum and buzz of the jungle darkness, never completely silent, Lizzy’s laughter was ringing through the trees, ricocheting around the clearing next to the Rex paddock.

She had a filthy laugh that Muldoon hadn’t heard before. At hundred per cent volume, totally out of control, with her head thrown all the way back. It was bloody glorious.

And he would be attempting to make her do it again, as soon as possible.

I’ll have more of that please.

“Christ Almighty-“ Lizzy wiped her streaming eyes. “-that’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever heard. Well done.” She started cackling breathlessly again, clutching her stomach.

“If I wasn’t awake before that, I certainly was afterwards.”

“I’ll bet.” She wriggled uncomfortably, her ribs were seriously aching. “That was a good one. Got any more?”

“More than we’ve likely got time for.”

The campfire was finally dying. They’d been out in the park for hours, it had to be almost midnight.

He built me a campfire. Lizzy was practically vibrating with contentment. Not that she couldn’t build her own fire, of course she could, but that wasn’t the point. The gesture was the point, and the fact he had agreed to an open flame amongst trees in the first place.

Just this once. While there’s nobody here. Those were his exact words.

Breaking the rules.

Just this once.

“We’ve got all the time in the world.” She insisted. “You really should write these down, you know.”

“Maybe someday. If I ever manage to retire. In fact-“ he was struck by an idea. “-you’re a decent writer.”

“Planning on keeping me around that long?”

“I’d like to think so. You have your uses.”

“I’ll take that.” Lizzy worked hard to keep her voice even after the compliment. “But you’d need plenty of photos, or drawings. I don’t know about you, but I’ve always preferred books with pictures.”

Her tone had just enough suggestion for Muldoon to wonder if Baker, despite her promises, had let slip about his own artistic capabilities.

He quickly moved the conversation along before she had too long to dwell on the thought. “You must have a few stories of your own by now?”

Lizzy did indeed have a good one she hadn’t yet shared. Through instinct, she looked around the clearing for eavesdroppers, although they had to be the only two humans for miles and miles, a vast stretch of ocean separating them from the nearest civilisation.

“On the topic of photographs…I never told anyone outside of the research station because I didn’t want to embarrass Simon.” She rolled her eyes. “Doesn’t matter now, and it’s not like you two will ever meet anyway.”

“Go on.” He caught his grimace just in time at the mention of the ex-fiancé’s name.

“The first time he came to visit me in Namibia, he was a little, uh-…condescending to the locals in our team-“

Muldoon was familiar with what the swift response from said locals would be, rich white clients tended to all behave in a similar way. It was expected. But that was a whole other collection of tales for the fireside. “I’ll bet that was swiftly resolved.”

“They had some fun with him first. Simon was parading his new Polaroid camera around giving it “magic picture” this and that. I was mortified.”

“Christ-“

“He hasn’t travelled much outside the States.” Lizzy explained. “Or, in fact, outside the state of New York. Anyway, one of my team, proceeds to tell Simon, translated by yours truly, that she prefers the resolution on the Nikon 35mm and also that she had the equipment handy to help Simon clean his dirty lens.”

Muldoon smiled grimly. “You laughed too, I imagine?”

He wondered if it had been as good as the ridiculous laugh he had recently become acquainted with.

Lizzy had indeed tried and miserably failed to keep a straight face at her partners come-uppance. “I couldn’t help it!”

She recalled the memory. Simon’s face had been hot and red, mortally embarrassed, and he’d stormed off by himself into the long grass.

A terrible, possibly fatal response.

Once she’d caught up to him with a shotgun slung over her shoulder, she’d had to sweet-talk him into returning to camp before he stumbled across a big cat, buffalo or even a snake who would really give him something to be upset about.

That hadn’t improved his temper at all, but he had been downright foolish of him to just wander off like he was taking a stroll in Central bloody Park!

Why’d you laugh at me? Are all your friends like this? Do we really have to stay out here with them? What’s wrong with Windhoek?

Windhoek, really? They’re just messing with you! It’s fine!

Not fine, Liz! They should apologise!

You’re the one who should apologise! Pembe is the best guide we have and you were damn rude-

And so on. One of many disagreements, and they seemed to be increasing in frequency.

“Yeah, he didn’t see the funny side at all.” She sniffed. “Was never that great at laughing at himself. Bless him.” “You need to have a fantastic sense of humour-“ Muldoon’s voice was as dry as if he were telling Lizzy her shoelace was untied. “-to work with things that regularly try to make your life insurance policy pay out before time.”

“Good thing you’re so in tune with your emotions then, eh?” The comment earned her nothing more than a derisive glance as he lowered his slouch hat over his face, and she chuckled again.

Maybe it was the Towel Incident, or the disastrous cooking attempt that had followed, but the ice was well and truly broken. No going back now. Lizzy felt the most like herself since the breakup. It was so easy, talking to him like this. She was happy.

They were on opposite sides of the campfire, Lizzy scooched a fraction closer on her blanket so she could see him better through the heat haze.

Muldoon was on the ground too, stretched out on a blanket of his own. Lizzy wasn’t sure how he seemed to look even taller lying down. She shook her head, trying to chase away the thought of how she’d measure up.

Lizzy watched him for a long time, thinking to herself in comfortable silence, before speaking again.

“Tell me about her.”

“Who?”

He’d answered instantly. Of course he was awake under the hat, alert. As always.

“Your wife.” She answered quietly.

Muldoon hmm-ed for a long moment, Lizzy waiting as patiently as she was able, trying her hardest not to fidget.

Just when she thought there was no way he was ever going to answer her in this lifetime, he did.

“You’re not unlike her. Your attitude is-“ Damn. Did it again. He corrected. “-was very similar.”

“You can say ‘is’.” Lizzy told him gently. “Nobody here but me.”

“She cooked much better than you can.”

“Yeah, that sounds about right.” Lizzy muttered. “But, in my defence, I didn’t know food could be any other colour than beige until I left school.” Shuffling where she sat, her legs starting to get pins and needles. “She pretty?”

“Knockout.”

“Wow.” She grinned. “Lucky you.”

“A lot taller than you.” Muldoon added. “Honour is likely going to hit six foot once she’s in high school.”

“Honour?”

“Our daughter.”

“Ah.” It occurred to Lizzy he’d never told her the name of his child before. Or ever used the prefix ‘our’. Always mine. Always my responsibility from now on. No more our.

It felt like he was divulging a massive secret. Honour. Lizzy rolled it around in her brain. Not a name she would ever have imagined him going for, but she liked it. Rather a lot.

He took the hat from his eyes and looked her up and down. “She’s almost your height already, in fact. Although that wouldn’t be difficult.”

“The diet of beige is to blame. Unfortunately, I’m stunted.” Not where it counts Muldoon thought. There was a reason he liked walking behind along Dr Armstrong where he could get away with it. The view was spectacular.

He tried very hard to get her quite frankly unfair side profile out of his head before he answered. “We’ll pretend the smoking habit had nothing to do with it, then. Honestly, the pair of you would have gotten along.” It was the truth. His wife, too, loved elephants and had a downright filthy laugh.

“Did Jeff know her?” Lizzy asked, hoping the answer was yes.

“They were lethal together.”

“Dr Blacklaw has quite excellent taste in women, what can I say?” She made a show of tossing her hair back. Muldoon found himself wondering if their paths had crossed sooner and he had met Armstrong in Africa, how would he have felt about her? How would she have felt about him?

Life might have been very different. Maybe he would have turned down the offer from InGen, gone to India instead. He wouldn’t have to be so careful about what he said or did all the time.

At least the other chap was out of the picture now. Matters were a damn sight better than when she first arrived with that rock on her finger, like a shameless beacon, flashing I’m taken every time the sun caught it at the right angle: You haven’t got a hope in Hell.

Maybe the universe was capable of working things out for itself, even if it had put him through the metaphorical wringer to get to this point.

“Has there-…” Lizzy was so relaxed she had forgotten herself, who she worked for, and all her manners. As the question was tumbling from her mouth she realised how inappropriate it was. They were good friends, sure, but working friendships always had their limits.

She was about to cross a very dangerous line.

“What?”

“Doesn’t matter.”

“Less of that. It clearly does, or you wouldn’t have said it.”

In a rare occasion, she seemed lost for words.

”Nobody here but me.” He quoted her own words back to her.

“I…don’t know if you’ll like it.” She fumbled. “I was just curious. Nosy. I was being nosy, alright? Sorry.”

“Try me.”

Lizzy knew that tone. I dare you. If you’re brave enough. Deep breath.

“Has there been…anyone since?”

I double dare you.

There followed a very long pause during which Lizzy thought don’t ask why, do not ask why.

“Why?”

Dammit.

She couldn’t be the only person on the planet who could see the appeal. More-so now that he’d stopped drinking, Lizzy had an even harder time keeping her thoughts in check. He was looking damn fine recently.

“Eight years is a long time!” Lizzy sighed and wrung her hands. “And I told you that you wouldn’t like it! Don’t answer. No need.”

“It’s alright.”

Muldoon was in fact very interested to see where this particular conversation was headed.

They could have been back in Kenya, with the campfire and animal calls, though of a different era, still familiar in their nature, all around them.

If there’s a right time, it’s probably now.

“Nobody significant.” He answered. One or two that didn’t work out. Three or four that had just been stress relief. Nobody that he felt deserved any more of his time or his life, or his daughter’s. Until Armstrong had landed on the island with a bang and instantly began rearranging the natural order, and damn her, questioning the where-why-how of everybloodything.

Lizzy meanwhile, was wishing she had never brought the subject up.

And she knew the reason. Not because it was awkward to talk about, strangely enough it wasn’t awkward in the slightest. His answer had been as casual as if she had asked him what the time was, or what the weather was likely to do tomorrow. But the answer she had most wanted to hear, been hoping to hear, no, nobody at all, was way too much to wish for.

She’d been correct. Eight years was a long time.

Or maybe Lizzy was just a little peeved he’d probably done better in the last eight years being out of a relationship than she had done being in one until very recently.

She had to admit the first two years with Simon had been a lot of fun. After that it became less about fun, and more about we’re in the same country, so we’d better do something about it. God, I’m so tired. Are you tired? C’mon, we gotta. At least once. I love you. So tired.

“Anything else in this particular line of questioning, while we’re at it?” He actually sounded amused.

“When…-“ Lizzy started then ground to a halt again. Way too inappropriate.

“When…?”

She just wanted to die there and then.

“Doesn’t matter.” She frowned and deliberately looked away. “Forget it.”

“Were you about to ask ‘when was the last time’?” Muldoon smirked. He knew he was on the money. And seeing the normally confident and bolshy ethologist becoming a little flustered was delightful. “Getting rather personal there, Armstrong.”

“You’re right, I’m sorry.” She stammered. “None of my business.”

“I honestly don’t mind.” This could work both ways. “We’re adults. I will if you will.”

Curiosity was burning Lizzy’s insides so much that it was manifesting as stomach ache. She had gotten herself into this mess, may as well keep going. She nodded, ignoring Kathy’s voice in her head warning you’re gonna get in troooouble…

“Remember when the dilophosaur did a number on you? I was away at the time?”

“Huh. So when you said you had a good trip, you meant you had a good trip. I see.” She played with the belt loops on her jeans, reluctant to deliver her side of the deal.

Muldoon cleared his throat. “Forgetting something, missus?”

“I’ve changed my mind. I don’t like this game.” Lizzy grumbled, only because she was losing.

“Then don’t give what you can’t take. I’ll have to make a wild guess if you don’t want to say out loud.”

Lizzy mumbled something that he took as affirmative.

“Let’s see, then.” She was shifty-eyed and squirming. Brilliant. “ Didn’t you stop off in the States with your man before you came over here?”

“Well, yeah-“ Lizzy forced herself to get over her self-consciouness. She still had the Spanish dictionary somewhere in her room in the lodge. Regrettably, the only thing Simon had given her before she boarded her flight to Costa Rica. “But if that’s your guess, you’re dead wrong.”

Muldoon looked at her in disbelief. He had so many questions. What the Hell had the man been playing at?! It was like he wanted to lose her.

“This year at least?”

“Yes, if you absolutely must know!” Lizzy knew the exact Pantone shade of scarlet she was turning, far beyond pretending it was from the heat of the campfire. “April was a very good month, okay?”

April?! It’s nearly bloody next year now…

Her short temper now seemed incredibly explainable.

”I can hear you thinking.” Lizzy said grumpily, still not looking directly at him. “Not quite the answer you were expecting from someone like me, eh?”

“If that’s true, I can’t help but feel most of your bad moods have a fairly easy fix.”

“Not so easy on a tiny island, where people talk. Our favourite engineer being the main culprit.” She grinned at him. “Or I could follow your example and finally have a good reason to go back to the mainland.”

He didn’t want her to do that at all, actually, but he grudgingly agreed.

She was lying on her side, propped up on an elbow. The size of her waist in comparison to her hips was unreal. Nothing wrong with her khaki shorts, but those damn jeans were doing her some incredible favours.

Lizzy couldn’t stop, though she was wary of feeling upset from finding out more things she didn’t really want to hear. “So, do you really like this person on the mainland?”

Muldoon chose his words carefully. ”There is someone I’m keen on, yes.”

What the-

“Oh. Yeah, great. Good for you.” It came out more sarcastic than she intended.

Muldoon nearly laughed. Armstrong wasn’t following him.

”You know, it’s alright to be jealous.” He couldn’t resist toying with her.

Lizzy’s reaction was explosive.

”I’m not-“ She practically back snarled at him. “Hm. I’m not jealous!”

Very convincing thought Muldoon.

No, not jealous. She was fuming. Someone else?! Why was he telling her that? Lizzy really thought he liked her, and now he was interested in someone else?

”Armstrong…” Please get there faster. I’m not ready to say it yet.

Boy, did she feel silly when she realised Muldoon was talking about her.

She was the one he was interested in.

”This person-“ Lizzy was finally on the same wavelength, much to the relief of both of them . “-I’m not sure she’s good enough for you.”

“Oh, really?” “I have some questions. Just to be certain.” The delighted grin was threatening to burst forth. She forced a neutral expression.

Keep it together.

“First question: is she pretty?”

“Very.”

“Intelligent?”

“She’s a clever girl, yes.”

“Meek and feeble?”

“Not even a bit. And you know fine that’s not what I would want.” Muldoon gave her that look she knew oh-so-well. “You’re pushing your luck, by the way.”

Lizzy laughed again, the real, uncontrollable laugh, and he finally smiled.

New Year’s Eve, or Hogmanay as she better knew it, had always been more magical than Christmas. No matter how bad things got, the moment the clock struck midnight had the promise of a new beginning, a fresh start. A chance to do better this time around.

But she knew exactly what would happen this year on Nublar. The spell would break. They would go back to the visitor centre, back to work, and in a few days it would be as if this night had never even happened.

She needed to do something. Before it all ended.

“You alright in there?” He had noticed her smile fading.

”Fine. Just thinking.”

Muldoon scoffed.

“I know well enough that fine, very rarely means fine. Especially when it’s coming from you, my girl.” He stared her down. “What’s the matter?”

“It’s just…not fair.” Lizzy became aware she was whining, and hated herself for it.

She didn’t need to elaborate. He knew exactly what she meant. “I agree.”

Why couldn’t we have just met in Africa?

”I don’t want to go back. Not yet.”

“Neither do I, but we have to, at some point.”

“Why, though?” Muldoon hesitated, trying to word it as diplomatically as he could, to avoid upsetting her.

“Because there are rules that can’t be broken, and ultimately I’m responsible for your safety.” Damn this whole situation. “That is what it all comes down to.”

“Okay.” She reluctantly agreed. “Let’s go, I suppose.”

It’s not okay, it’s not okay at all. A part of her had desperately hoped something would happen that night. Conditions were otherwise perfect. They’d likely never have a chance like this again for a long time.

But it wasn’t meant to be.

Unless…

She had an idea.

“Fire’s still going.” Lizzy stated flatly. “I’ll sort it out.” The ground was too hard to kick dirt over it. But she knew Muldoon kept a couple of metal jerry cans in the back of his Jeep. Not InGen protocol, just old habits.

One was water, one was gas. Labelled of course, but it was pitch black apart from the glowing embers nearby.

Don’t want to get these two mixed up.

She unscrewed the lid of the first container and got a noseful of fumes. Then checked the second, and bingo, slightly stale water that smelled like the colour green. But it was much heavier than she anticipated, almost full.

“Ooyah! Son of a bitch!” She’d tried to lift, lost grip, and somehow managed to trap her finger between the two cans with a bang.

“Everything alright back there?”

“It’s fine, under control!” Lizzy struggled to free herself, cursing under her breath at her own clumsiness. Idiot. “Shitshitshit, come on!”

She eventually succeeded, dousing the remains of the fire with a quiet sizzle and a faint wisp of smoke.

Darkness.

Muldoon hadn’t started the Jeep yet, waiting for her, there wasn’t any light at all in the clearing. She put the can in its place, then hung back by the tailgate, quiet and still.

And in three…two…one…

Muldoon didn’t take long to twig that something suspicious was afoot.

”Christ’s sake, Armstrong, don’t do it!” He sounded exasperated. “If you’re planning on playing hide and seek in the dark again, I’m not having it this time.”

She didn’t answer.

If he wasn’t into this, he’d just wait me out.

Lizzy was very quickly proven right.

“I know exactly where you are.” He kept up a stream of expletives in her general direction as he slammed the driver’s door. “I’ve being doing this for years. I’m very good at it.”

Come get me, then.

Lizzy didn’t even hardly dare breathe, placing her palm over her mouth to stay quiet. Silence.

For just a beat too long.

Hang on, where the Hell is he?

Lizzy realised she possibly no longer had the upper hand. A tiny, deliberate, shuffle of gravel under heavy boots right next to her, that made her jump and flatten her body against the taillights with a small thump.

He was close. Much closer than she thought. And she’d just given herself away.

“Got you.” Muldoon was attempting to sound put out, but he’d enjoyed that, as much was evident in his voice, she could tell. “Too easy.”

”Fair and square, mister. So, what are we going to do next?”

”You’re going to get in the Jeep, and we’re going back to the lodge.”

Lizzy leaned against the rear bumper, making the metal creak underneath her. Just so he knew exactly where she was.

”See, I don’t really feel like getting back in the Jeep right now, isn’t that a kicker?” She hoped the lip-bite was evident in how she coyly spoke. “What are you going to do about that?”

“I will pick you up.” Muldoon threatened. “Employee handbook be damned.”

“If that’s the case, handbook out the window, then I think you should do more than just ‘pick me up.’” She mimicked. “I’d let you.”

“Lizzy.” Deep, exasperated sigh. “I am using your first name so you know how serious I am. Get in the Jeep.”

She uttered the two words that she knew ahead of time would be the equivalent of a red rag to the park warden.

“Make me.”

God, she could feel the annoyance radiating from him. He was bristling.

But nothing could have prepared her for what happened next.

Lizzy heard him tapping impatiently on the side panel of the Jeep, it felt like a countdown.

Should I be runni-?

“Right-“ He was fast.

She wasn’t fast enough.

And really should have ran while she had the chance.

He was making good on his word that he would pick her up, willing or not, employee handbook, workplace code, the unspoken rules all thrown out of the window, never to be seen again.

Muldoon went straight for her legs, grabbing handfuls of her through her jeans. Damn woman, she would get in the bloody car.

Lizzy shrieked and flung out her arms, scrabbling for something, anything to grab onto, both hands found and gripped the sides of the Jeep tailgate.

Muldoon was trying his best to pry her free while she barely clung on for dear life with her fingernails, not unlike a cat that was avoiding being stuffed into a cage and carted off to the veterinary surgery.

She felt the pressure on her legs ease, and thought he’d given up. She started to loosen her fingers on the cool metal.

Then he found the backs of her knees with both hands, and pulled hard. But Lizzy wasn’t for letting go just yet. She still clung on for dear life like a very determined barnacle.

“By Christ, you’re strong-“ There was a hint of desperation in Muldoon’s normally measured voice.

That did it. Lizzy was gone then, she started laughing helplessly at the absurdity of what was happening, what events had led to this moment, and how ridiculous they must look. She finally lost her grip all at once and slid ungracefully downwards with a thump, accepting defeat, still cackling.

Lizzy just knew Muldoon was shaking his head in exasperation at her in the dark, his accident-prone, walking disaster of an ethologist.

“Sit up, you bloody lunatic.” But then her entire hand was grasped in his, pulling her upright into a sitting position. “For God’s sake, don’t bang your head. It might knock some sense into you, but I don’t fancy the paperwork.”

”It’s far too late for me.” Lizzy tried to catch her breath. “Would need to be one Hell of a bang.”

Realising the connotations too late, she snorted and muttered sorry as she tried to reason with her hair, patting it back into a more respectable shape.

She felt two fingers under her chin, tilting her face upwards and she tensed, her breath caught in her throat. “What am I going to do with you, Lizzy?”

The question was absolutely loaded.

”Anything you like.” She impulsively answered in a low voice.

She was euphoric, riding the high that had been building since the moment she stepped down out of the Jeep into the clearing, and honestly she just didn’t care any longer.

They would never be alone again after New Year’s Eve.

This was it. Her only chance for God knew how long.

She had it bad, so bad for him. And she couldn’t really remember just then why this was such a terrible idea in the first place. Something about those damn rules…

Eh, never been one for the rules anyway. Lizzy craned her neck upwards, stretching as far as she possibly could, relying on her intuition alone in the dark.

She found what she was searching for and after a last moment of hesitation, she finally did it. She kissed him.

He pulled away slightly, unsure. Lizzy felt sick that she’d misjudged horribly, and was starting to seriously panic with how she could possibly play this one off.

I…fell?

But she could have cried with relief when he apparently got over the surprise and began kissing her in return, leaning into her. Responding to her.

It felt so right, so bizarrely normal, that Lizzy found herself briefly wondering why they hadn’t been doing this the whole damn time they’d known each other.

Slow and hesitant at first. Then something simultaneously clicked for the both of them, and it turned into an altogether different experience. Urgent, messy, not at all careful, not what Lizzy was used to at all.

Lizzy feared the lamps would click on and flood the clearing with light at any second. Like they had to hurry before they were caught, as if John Hammond himself might pop out of the bushes, brandishing his cane, gotcha!

But it didn’t matter. This was what she’d needed. She hadn’t realised how much she needed it, that she wanted this so badly. For far longer than the past few months of living in Costa Rica.

She realised she didn’t mind so much anymore if she banged her head on the floor of Jeep. Repeatedly. In fact, at this moment in time she’d be glad of it. They might not make it back to the lodge.

But as quickly as had happened, it was over. Fate had very different ideas for how the night would progress.

He pushed a little too hard into her hips, and oh God it’s happening, forcing her backwards against the bed of the Jeep as Lizzy let her legs relax and fall further apart. It was evidently far too much for the built-in motion sensor, and the alarm in the vehicle began blaring like a police siren at ear-splitting volume, all lights flashing in unison. The Rex snorted and roared unhappily at the disturbance from the other side of the fence, only adding to the din. The noise had the same effect as if someone had poured a bucket of ice cold water over them.

“Shit-“ Lizzy shot upright, pulling away and covered her ears while Muldoon fumbled for the Jeep keys to stop the racket.

Then silence. Deafening, smothering silence. Even the Rex was quiet. A single hadrosaur trumpeted in the distance.

She waited, unsure what to do next, she couldn’t read his expression in the dark, but he felt off. Something was badly wrong.

“I’m taking you back now.” Muldoon said tersely. “I would really appreciate it if you just do what I ask this time.”

”Okay.” She knew better than to argue.

“That was out of order.” He continued icily. “That cannot happen again.”

“Got it. Sorry.” Lizzy felt the heat rising in her cheeks. Goddamn embarrassment, flooding every cell. I can’t believe this. I’ve blown it. “I’m really sorry.”

He didn’t respond as she shuffled into the passenger side and quietly buckled her seatbelt. He wouldn’t even look at her. She tried again, one last attempt.

I’m using your first name so you know how serious I am.

”Robert, I’m really sorry.”

Please believe me.

Please answer me.

She‘d never used his name before, ever. This wasn’t the pleading circumstances she wanted to use it for the first time. Not at all.

Her efforts didn’t work.

”Don’t do that.” Muldoon replied flatly, starting the engine while staring straight ahead. “We’ll deal with this in the morning.”

Lizzy’s heart plummeted, her chest constricting, aching with that too familiar pain all over again.

Her stomach was flipping back and forth in sheer panic for the entire silent-and-not-in-a-good-way journey back to the lodge.

She didn’t even bother trying for a goodnight as they parted ways to their own rooms. Neither of them did. I’ve really done it this time.

Months of building a rapport, gone in an instant because of one false judgement. And what if he told Jeff what she’d done? What if anyone on the island, at InGen, found out what she’d done?

The rumours that had been swirling around would finally be true. There were names Lizzy would be called that she couldn’t just brush off anymore. Nobody would take her, or her work, seriously ever again. She’d be an outcast.

All terrible things. But worst of all was Muldoon refusing to acknowledge her. That was the reason she was trying her damnedest not to cry. Stupid. Stupid, stupid idiot!

It had turned out to be too much too soon. Maybe too much ever.

Why do I always do this? Why do I always ruin everything?

***

Thanks for reading!

If a particular anecdote sounds familiar, I mayyyyy have drawn some inspiration from George of the Jungle (this is very important for later 🎶)

The story I envisioned Muldoon telling Lizzy is along the lines of Peter Capstick’s black mamba in the latrine story from Death in the Long Grass. If you want some idea of just how funny it is, I’ve read it multiple times and know what’s coming almost verbatim. I still laugh every time I read it.

And hearing Muldoon calmly recount one of the many times he’s almost checked out early would be, I imagine, quite hilarious.

I can’t believe I finally got to post this chapter. It’s been here since the very first draft, it’s quite special to me as New Year, or Hogmanay as we call it, is a much bigger deal in Scotland. A very important tradition is the first foot, which is supposed to bring you good fortune for the year ahead.

…I guess they did it wrong.

12 notes · View notes

hyenahunt · 1 year

Text

Saga: Rivals - 6

Writer: Akira

Season: Winter

Characters: Jun, Hiyori

Proofreading: moricchiichan (JP) & hyenahunt (ENG)

Translation: kotofucius

Hiyori: Jun-kun... Can I give you a hug?

Jun: ... well, I do get what you’re saying. Nothing's gonna change if I just keep moping around.

Hiyori: Yes, yes. So wipe that gloomy look away — let’s move onto more enjoyable topics!

Have a look over here, Jun-kun! I dropped by the agency on my way home, you see —

And they gave me aaall these fan letters!

Regardless of where the winds of history will blow, or whatever tall tales of us are spoken, there are so many people who still love us!

If we were to ever let these people feel that cheering us on was a waste of time... why, that would be the end of us. So you see, we must continue to hold our heads high and lavish our brilliant love on them, all the while with radiant smiles on our faces ♪

Jun: Ooh... You brought heaps of 'em home again, huh~ And to think you won’t even carry shopping bags on your own, usually.

Hiyori: Well, I didn’t have anyone to carry them for me this time.

In the morning, I brought Hidaka-sensei to Yumenosaki Academy, and briefly dropped in to say hello to Eichi-kun and the others. Afterwards, I just had fun wandering about town.

Hehe, we’ve almost always been around each other since Eve's formation, so being all alone for once was in fact rather refreshing.

Jun: But aren'tcha the the type that gets lonely on your own? You could’ve called me up, y'know.

Hiyori: Oh no, you second years still have your normal class times, don't you? So I was just being considerate~ It was lonely, of course, but I endured it!

Jun: Well, yeah, but the higher-ups are all still busy ‘cause of SS, so even in class we just mostly did some self-studying.

Speaking of which, we got out of SS unharmed ‘cause we sided with Trickstar — in fact, the public now has an even better opinion of us thanks to that —

Hiyori: Yes. And now Ibara is taking full advantage of it to play his game of politics as he climbs the corporate ladder with incredible momentum.

With the rate he’s going at, he may already come to stand at the very top of CosPro by next term.

Jun: Hmph. Not that I get what's so great about ruling over this tattered wreck of an agency, but...

Well, I guess there’s some kinda worth in everything? Actually, we’re talking about Ibara here — he's gonna find some use for it, one way or the other.

But yeah, anyway, despite being part of CosPro we’re still profiting from the situation .

And all those other guys probably hate us for that, yeah? Dealing with their pointed glares and shittalking gossip is 'bout as pleasant as stepping on Legos, I swear.

Jun: Well, by now I'm pretty much immune to that kinda stuff. But in the end, I just can’t help feeling guilty about it... or like, I can’t help but wonder: why me?

I don’t wanna keep asking the same thing over and over, but I can’t just shake it off or figure it out... I mean, is it really okay for me and only me to be this happy?

Ever since I was a snot-nosed brat, I've grown up stuck between my shitty old man who's trapped in the past, and my mom who did nothing but cry...

So to me, the life I have right now is like something right outta a dream. And that's exactly why it scares me.

After all, there are people in this world out there living in the absolute dumps... I mean, I was one of 'em.

So y'see, I get what you mean and all, that if I’ve got more happiness than I know what to do with, I should share it with those who aren't as lucky.

But no matter what, I just can't stop dwelling on it. Why me? There wasn't any real reason for it, y'know? It was just a stroke of dumb luck... all thanks to you finding me.

I basically earned it by chance, without a lick of effort on my part — and that's exactly why it feels like I could lose it just as easily...

And it makes me so anxious. I want something to convince me that I’m someone who actually deserves the happiness that I have, just as I am.

But there's nothing I can do right now except train up my strength. I know, I know, all it'll actually do is add to my muscle...

But still, I need to grow stronger, even if just by a bit. I need to become a true idol I can be proud of.

Or else, Ohii-san... I just can't ever forgive myself for being happy.

Hiyori: Jun-kun... Can I give you a hug?

Jun: 'Scuse me? I'll pass, that's gross. Your replies just... never make any sense, do they?

Hiyori: Whenever you feel anxious, there's nothing like letting someone hold you tight while you listen to the sound of their heartbeat. See? Mary felt so safe and secure in my arms that she's fast asleep now ♪

Jun: Haha. You'd never have guessed she used to yelp all night in fear when we first brought her home.

Hiyori: Yes, the thought of the dorm head catching on and coming to tell us off certainly kept us on edge.

Hiyori: The poor girl was born frail... Perhaps that was the reason her owner so heartlessly abandoned her.

She could have died out there in the harsh outdoors, so perhaps she was truly blessed to have stayed alive.

She was scavenging a garbage dump that day, with a desperation to stay alive and her fur stained with blood.

Perhaps I ought to have left her alone. Touching her would stain my own clothes; and I had no reason to think she would have a better life under my care...

But before I knew it, she was already bundled in my arms, my cheek pressed to her fur.

I felt the warmth of her body, and the beat of her heart. And now that I'd found her, there was no way I could leave her alone.

She could stain my clothes for all I care...

If she had died only after there wasn't anything more I could've done to save her, I could still live the rest of my life with that feeling of helplessness and regret.

But if I were to simply abandon this precious life to die, then I could never love myself again. And if I were ever unable to love even myself, why, I wouldn’t be able to live on for even a second longer.

So you see, it was for myself that I picked her up and cared for her, cherished her, and fed her.

I may not be able to save every helpless life in existence, but I wish to protect at least those that are around me.

Then, those who I protected and raised may in turn grow up to be tall and strong and splendid... Perhaps they may even come to provide me with solace and happiness.

And so long as that cycle of love persists, I'll be able to believe that the world isn't all that bad.

Jun: ... and what're you tryna say with all that?

Hiyori: What I'm saying is that you don’t need to be anxious or afraid either, Jun-kun.

You may have asked “Why me?”... but does there truly need to be a reason? Why not just go with the thought that it was the wonderful destiny God always had in store for you, and leave it at that?

More importantly — we'll be getting busy soon enough, so you should go take a bath, change into your pajamas, and get enough sleep for tomorrow.

Jun: ... gotcha. We're gonna barge right into Yumenosaki tomorrow under the pretense of meeting up with Hidaka-sensei, right?

Hiyori: Yes. We'll say our hellos, first of all. Then, just like the typical rivals of a shounen manga, we'll defeat that group they call Ba-barrier.

"Ba-barrier defeated when even Project-Saga's fan-favourite Rain-bows struggled against them — just who are these victors!?"

... So shall be our headline as they welcome our debut with dramatic fanfare! ♪

Jun: Haha. With a dramatic entrance like that, wouldn’t it be embarrassing if we just ended up losing against those Ba-barrier guys?

Hiyori: Our possibility of losing is zero. Well, Ba-barrier does have Madara-kun, so they may not quite go down without a fight...

But no man or devil stands the slightest chance of victory against us... Not when we have the divine perfection of our ruthless angel of victory on our side.

✦✦✦✦✦

← prev ✦ all ✦ next →

#ensemble stars #enstars #enstars translation #s: saga #hyenahunttl #jun sazanami.#hiyori tomoe

33 notes · View notes

fishklok · 7 months

Text

Happy Friday.

I needed to study for my torts class, and what better motivation is there than spite? Unfortunately, I did block this anon so they will be spared from my lecture lol. This is for me now.

Let's get some disclaimers out of the way.

The point of my post was not "Magnus would be found innocent because Nathan hurt his lil face :(". For one, I am talking about civil law, and innocent/guilty is criminal law terminology (a lot of self defense law is carried over from criminal law, but that's a different matter). The point of my post was whether, Magnus could use his own injuries to argue against Nathan's self defense claims. Magnus would still be liable for battery, but there is a chance he could have Nathan hit for a similar (perhaps lesser) claim. I thought I was clear in my original post, but there's a chance I wasn't and I'm sorry.

I'm just using scenes from the show to exercise my law student brain. It's really just a fun exercise trying to work through events and ask "well, how could this point be argued?" or "what if x happened instead?" I'm not a lawyer and I'm definitely not giving legal advice. There is a chance that I'll learn something next week that will tear apart everything I'm about to write in this post. That's fine - I'm still learning.

You might be thinking that I'm wasting my time dwelling on this. To that I'd say, yeah. I know anon and I have nothing going on this Friday night, so I might as well spend it doing some fun legal research.

Anyway, let's get to these points.

"Nathan would be completely in his right to fill magnus with lead, let alone punch him for magnus' ATTEMPTED MURDER."

Anon is actually right here. Let's assume that when Magnus went to stab Nathan, and Nathan responded by pulling out a gun and shot him, many courts would find this is sufficient to count as self defense. For Nathan to be justified in using deadly force against Magnus, he would have to prove that he had "reasonable apprehension of loss of life or great bodily harm." Scales v. State (1961). Then the court would have to argue over what constitutes as "reasonable apprehension", but it's likely that most courts would find Magnus literally attacking him with a knife to be more than enough.

"At what point does assault with a deadly weapon not justify a person's right to respond in equal if not excessive force to protect their own life?"

This is actually a very interesting question that's at the root of a lot of cases. Here's an example of a disagreement that comes up frequently within the law: what if someone is able to retreat? If someone could have fled the scene, but instead chose to defend themselves with deadly force, can they still claim self defense? The Restatement (Second) of Torts § 65 (1965) says that a victim may use deadly force, only if there's reasonable doubt they could escape safely. However, most courts hold that someone can use deadly force to defend themselves, even if that force results in the death of their attacker. But this is a very complicated issue that you see pop up everywhere from courtrooms to high school debate club topics. But relevant for this spiral of a post, if Nathan killed Magnus to defend himself from being stabbed, it would be sufficient to count as self defense. Also Magnus would have a harder time arguing otherwise.

(Also, just to be even more of an asshole, for the sake of this hypothetical I'm considering Magnus' crime battery, not assault with a deadly weapon. It's still a serious tort, but I don't want to get too mixed up with criminal terms in this civil law example. Also I'm being pedantic.)

"There have been cases of people winning self defense when the attacker died using a less deadly weapon."

I don't doubt that; I've even read some of those cases. However, this is not the issue at hand.

My point was that, if Magnus was brought to court, he could make the argument that Nathan used excessive force against him. Not by punching him after the initial attack, but by repeatedly punching him when he no longer had the means to fight back. If the initial attack is no longer a threat, the privilege of self-defense is terminated. The cases my text book cites to illustrate this point are Germolous v. Sausser (1901), Drabek v. Sabley (1966), Edgar v. Emily (1982). There is a point in the series of events where the self-defense distinction becomes murkier, and Magnus could use that murkiness to his advantage. It could be argued that Magnus stopped committing the battery the moment he no longer had access to his weapon and he was prone on the ground. When it comes to proportionality of force used in self defense, courts often consider the differences in strength and age between the parties. So if Magnus wants to present himself in court as a weak old man getting punched in the face by this beefcake metal vocalist, it might be able to help his case.

So what does this mean for Magnus? Does this mean the court would find him innocent? No, because "innocent" is a criminal law term, and I just spent an eternity talking about torts. But in a civil case, Magnus would have grounds to argue against Nathan's self defense claims. Does this mean he would win? Unlikely. At most, I can see Nathan being considered liable for battery as well, not definitely not as severe as Magnus' claim. Nathan might have to pay him some damages, but it probably wouldn't even be enough to make up for the money Magnus would owe him. And at worst, the court would look at Magnus' argument and say, "yeah....but you did stab the guy, so no." It really depends on the jurisdiction and the nature of the arguments. But it is an argument that Magnus, this fictional cartoon man, could make. There is no guarantee he would win.

"You're going to make a horrible lawyer."

I don't know what kind of lawyer I'm going to be.

Anyway, lol. Lmao, even.

(I was able to seriously bulk up my tort law notes for today because of this, so I don't consider this a waste of time at all. It's a waste of everyone else's time lol).

7 notes · View notes

ciaossu-imagines · 10 months

Note

💙 + homra for that connections ask meme - shoheiakagi

Of frigging course! I do love me a chance to write about this dysfunctional little group/family and this was really fun to do up! I hope you enjoy!

SEND ME 💙 + A CONNECTION AND I’LL TELL YOU…

Who orders takeaway?

I think most people would assume it would be Rikio, due to his love of food, but I honestly do think that Kamamoto prefers to sit and enjoy his meal more often than not, so he doesn’t order takeaway as much as you would think. I think both Bandou and Chitose are horrible for ordering takeaway though, half because they find the idea of eating a sit-down meal in public all alone kind of depressing and half because they’re normally too lazy to make anything to eat for themselves and have no other choice but to buy something to eat.

Who has the more adventurous love life?

Chitose’s a whore…a very handsome one, but a ho nonetheless. We all know, via canon, kind of why he ended up that way, but to say he has an impressive body count and that he’s slept with some absolutely bonkers insane women who did not take it well that he never called them back? It’s a given, honestly.

Who is better at keeping secrets?

I think I might surprise everyone here and go with my first instinct…it’s Anna. Anna all the way, honestly. I know I’ve mentioned this in previous talks about HOMRA, but Anna really does hear a lot more than most people assume and she’s privy to a lot of information and secrets that she probably shouldn’t have to know and handle. But the thing is, nobody would guess that she’s heard or that she knows because Anna is the furthest thing from a blabbermouth, and it never really occurs to her to tell anyone’s secrets. In fact, even though she knows the information, it’s not really something she dwells on or thinks too much about, which is probably why it doesn’t occur to her to tell secrets, her own or other peoples.

Who knows every rumor?

Of course, it’s going to be a given here that it is Kusanagi. It’s kind of canonically hinted at or maybe even outright stated that he’s an information broker of sorts, that part of why he’s as high up in HOMRA and doing as good in business as he is is because of everything he knows and all the information connections he has. However, I will say that, when Totsuka was alive, I do think he almost rivalled Kusanagi in that department, with his charisma and approachability meaning that Totsuka could charm most people into telling him just about anything…and when that charm didn’t work? Well, it’s been shown that Totsuka was actually quite strong in his own manner and that he wasn’t really someone to casually fuck around with.

Who suggests a movie night?

Okay, but I do have some HOMRA movie night headcanons done up right over here, but in turns of who suggests it? I really don’t think there’s any one member who does it more than the others – it just kind of comes up and someone will suggest doing it and the others jump on the suggestion and it just happens.

Who tries to convince the other to try skydiving?

Skydiving? No one really. Honestly, while these boys like to live a little dangerously, with a little edge to everything, I don’t see anyone really being an extreme sports junkie. I do think Shouhei would enjoy rock-climbing and Dewa’s actually pretty cool with white-water rafting, having done it exactly once, but overall, their yearning for danger is solved by motorcycles, fast cars, fights and fast living.

Who is the holiday planner?

Honestly, much like the movie nights, I do see most holidays with HOMRA being kind of a collaborative effort. Like, one person might mention something about an upcoming holiday and the topic kind of spins from there, with most members chiming in with their ideas. Everything does get run by Kusanagi or Totsuka and nothing goes ahead without approval from them, but everyone does kind of get their say in things.

Who spams the other with memes?

Bandou shares the most depressing memes. Shouhei has a habit of sharing really old ones that everyone has seen. Chitose doesn’t get half of what those memes actually mean. Dewa has turned off group chat. Kamamoto saves the memes on a folder in his phone and forwards them to other friends he has. Yata likes trying to make his own memes, which normally aren’t that great. Fujishima shares any meme with an animal and Eric’s phone bill is usually not paid so he’s without service a lot.

Who has never enough money with them and lets the other pay for things?

Honestly, it’s Eric. The boy does try really hard to manage his money well but he’s really financially illiterate, mostly due to how he grew up and his penchant for partners with expensive tastes. He’s normally broke as fuck all the time, in debt, and without the money to really pay for a lot if he’s out and about, and the other boys normally end up treating him, knowing his situation.

Who wants to try a classic sleepover?

Anna is honestly the only one who kind of wants to try this. Most of the boys have absolutely zero interest in sleepovers, as they’re all really too old for them, and Anna kind of instinctively does pick up on this, which is why she’s never brought the idea up before.

Who answers their phone at 2 am?

Honestly, it’s a toss-up. Depends on the night, who’s calling them, what they’re up to…it could be any of them. Well, except for Eric, for aforementioned reasons, for Anna, who doesn’t really have a phone and who tends not to take it to her bedroom when she sleeps, and for Mikoto, who will just sleep through your phone call.

Who plays pranks?

It’s not who plays the pranks, but who is good at the pranks. Mikoto generally doesn’t play pranks nor does Kusanagi. Totsuka was a stealth ninja at pulling pranks, almost guaranteed to get his target but all of his pranks were really light and good natured. Kamamoto has a lot of trouble thinking up good pranks, and Yata has no poker face, so the way he acts really gives away most of his pranks before the person gets hit with them. Shouhei is really pretty great at thinking them up and pulling them off, but he has to work with Bandou to pull any really good ones, as Shouhei’s pretty lousy at the actual work and hands on set up of the elaborate pranks his mind comes up with. Chitose’s pranks are all kind of dick moves and a little mean-spirited, not going to lie, while Dewa has a reputation of being unprankable. Eric’s pranks can be a little mean-spirited too but are very rare, while Fujishima is the absolute easiest to prank but gives very little reactions when pranked.

Who initiates dates for the other?

Honestly, Chitose does it, but not in a really great way. It’s more like he’s out with someone he wants to hook up with and they have a friend with them that they don’t want to leave all alone, so he calls up one of the boys and is like ‘I have this smokin’ hot chick and I really want to get her alone for a bit, but she’s got that uggo friend with her so I need you to fall on the sword for me, bro, just this once.’ He’s that kind of guy, at least for a lot of the series, though I do think he slowly gets a little better, especially post series. Shouhei is a better wing-man though and he’s genuinely happy to try to hook his friends up if he thinks his boys and whichever female friend of his will actually hit it off.

Who is more chaotic?

Everyone. Like, to me, HOMRA really is just this very chaotic neutral force, where they’re definitely not the good guys, but they’re not really bad guys either. They’re just punks, who like fighting and brawling and stirring up a little bit of danger and trouble, but who do have all these wonderful qualities and really don’t go out of their way to fuck with innocent people.

Who has the more bizarre quirks?

Mikoto is a truly bizarre creature to most people. He’s hard for people to really understand, to just figure out or connect with. All of HOMRA have a really strong respect and admiration for him, but I don’t think any of them, with the possible exceptions of Totsuka and kind of Kusanagi, ever truly understood him fully.

Who spends the most money on unnecessary things?

Eric. Especially since, as mentioned, he has no financial literacy and has a taste for high-maintenance people/gold-diggers.

#replies #k project #project k #homra #connections meme #headcanons #mikoto suoh #izumo kusanagi #totsuka tatara #kamamoto rikio #yata misaki #shouhei akagi #bandou saburouta #chitose yo #dewa masaomi #eric surt #kousuke fujishima

9 notes · View notes

corruptedroses · 1 year

Note

hi, i saw reqs were open!

nsfw novelist hcs with a fem reader 👀

⌞ask box open⌝ | ⌞commissions open⌝ | ⌞ko-fi?⌝ | ⌞Patreon coming soon⌝

— “A little research goes a long way, darling ❤„

Fandom — Identity V

Featuring — Orpheus / The Novelist

Content Warnings — AFAB reader [no pronouns], mentions of scratching, mentions of biting, temperature play, a suggestion of Nightmare joining in on the fun.

Author's Note — at the time of writing this we still do not know Orpheus' real name [as the name Orpheus has ben confirmed to be his pen name], in the near future I may end up coming back to fix this to include his real name but for now, he shall just be Orpheus.

As the title of this post suggests, Orpheus isn't a stranger when it comes to the concept of intimacy or topics regarding sexual intercourse. While this man may be a bit frigid himself, he certainly wouldn't deprive himself of the chance to learn new things. As a writer, research is a vital role of writing, and thus research means divulging in desires that would make even the devil himself sweat in pure sin.

While he leans on the vanilla side of the spectrum, he isn't afraid to experiment on his beloved or himself; while scenes like this don't usually appear in his books given that he is an author specialising in the detective genre, you have noticed that if he does something like tying you up, it usually ends up in the next book. It's weird but oddly enchanting. His personal favourite of these scenarios has had to be when he had watched your skin pebble as he dragged an ice cube across your exposed bosom. He really did like seeing you tremble

Being a bit of a frigid person, you will have to guide him at first; use him how you see fit, guide his hands, his legs, his arms to hold you tightly, squeeze you, embrace you, allow him to absorb the scent of your skin and the taste of your sweat into his brain to the point that he cannot forget it. He will not forget it. As a fast learner, one that tends to save every little detail to his memory, it wouldn't be too shocking that he ends up finding himself knowing your body like the back of his hand by the fifth time you fuck.

Talking about his fingers, he's got some long ones, he likes to make you sit in his lap, watching your face as he touches you ever so slowly, gentle circles, beautiful melodies, he's a man that likes to watch his pieces come together [and apart] with his fingers. From his years of typewriter and pen, he has callouses that also provide some nice texture. He wants to make you drip all over his thigh whether you like it or not.

He really, really likes to see evidence on each other's bodies that you two have danced the tango only meant for the most desperate of people, scratch his back, bite his skin, and he will return the favour in a way that no other man would do. He wants to leave evidence that he was there, for you to remember how he felt against your skin even long after the bruises and scratch marks have faded, he wants to remember how your heels felt digging into the small of his back as he made you sing broken syllables of his name. His true name.

When he begins to run out of ideas on how to best keep you on your toes, do not be surprised when certain books of a certain genre start appearing in his home; it's all important research to him.

There are certain nights, however, that he tends to forget, ones where his notes have already been done and you lay sound asleep. Those are the nights that make Orpheus think that he must've given into his most basic of instincts, the yearnings of the living man. As long as his notes are presented nicely and well in case of future projects, he best not dwell on them for too long.

#Anonymous #Identity v smut #idv smut #identity v #idv x reader smut #idv orpheus #idv Orpheus x reader #idv novelist #orpheus/reader #idv orpheus smut #idv novelist smut #smut #x reader headcanons #idv orpheus headcanons #idv novelist headcanons #idv orpheus smut headcanons #idv novelist smut headcanons

36 notes · View notes

homosexual-fast-dancer · 1 year

Text

Wah, it took me a decade but finally, my half of a trade with @digitalheartbeat!

Wander x Lex, The Datenight

"What? What do ya mean you've been on a picnic?" Wander threw his arms up, in shock at what Lex had just told him. "Well… yeah, a meteor isn't really the ideal place to hold one… especially seeing as I was always by myself…" The green alien chuckled slightly while rubbing the back of his neck, against his better judgement he really didn't think the nomad would react in such a way. "Well that just won't do! I'll tell ya what, I've spotted this real nice planet before, hows about we go there tonight?" He grinned while they just looked at him somewhat surprised at the invitation. But quickly he resumed his smile before nodding ever so slightly, turning away to look at the fauna but really just to collect his thoughts.

'Was… was that just a date invitation? Does he want to go on a date with me?? I mean I doubt it but what if…' Lex thought to themself as they continued on their travels. Being so close to the lad of his affections most of the time certainly didn’t help in the matter either, he was always worried to accidentally blurt something out. 'But… maybe, just maybe… I've never been on a date before, what if I make a fool of myself? What if- What if-' He started to panic, as they had finally reached the planet of their destination. Sylvia had noticed this and after sending Wander away, sat down with Lex to find out how she could help the turquoise haired alien.

"I just… don't want to make a fool of myself…" He finished confiding in the Zbornak, after which she lightly placed her hand on his shoulder making him look at her. "Eh, I wouldn't worry about it… chances are, if this is a date, he's probably just as inexperienced as you are, Wander's never been the amorous sort so this is also new for him." She smiled at him, while he nodded at her somewhat returning the smile. She was probably right, but with the evening soon approaching he didn't have much time to dwell on such thoughts…

And eventually the night did come, and swallowing down his nerves Lex waited at the planet Wander had told him about. Yet he didn't have time to worry for too long as bounding up the hill he saw the green hat of the alien he had been waiting for. "Hiya Lex! Sorry it took me so long!" The orange lad chuckled nervously before pulling out a pre-made picnic from out of his aforementioned cap. While the picnic was fun with Lex and Wander just bouncing conversation topics to each other, a single solitary thought had been nagging away at the back of the scarved alien's brain. And he just had to know the answer, so plucking his courage he gulped and took the plunge.

"Hey Wander I, uh, gotta ask… is this a date?" Lex grinned awkwardly while Wander's eyes shot open, and he started to nervously chuckle. "I, Well… I wouldn't mind… but," He started jabbering away before coughing to collect him, "It-It can be if ya want it be…" He shrugged with a small laugh that made them almost melt. Yet he sighed contently, responding, "Yeah… I think I'd like it to be."

#uwah i hope this is good!#thank you for being so patient with me!!!/gen #cherry trading services #lex🤖#also hopefully i got your s/is characterization down-

11 notes · View notes

lgcbyungho · 11 months

Text

lgc spring boys reflection

( 📝 wc of 467 )

“this was nothing like I had imagine.” byungho openly admitted during his reflection. this was a lot more work than his normal day to day.

there was so much that byungho wanted to talk about but the first topic of discussion was his role. being the sub-leader for the group was nothing that he ever thought he would get the opportunity to hold ( mostly because he never saw himself as an idol ).

“i have to admit that i’m really glad i picked the acting path.” byungho said with a chuckle, before anyone can take what he said out of context he continue with “because that’s where my passion really lies, but i am thankful that lgc gave me the opportunity to see what my day to day life would had been if i was an idol.” sort of, he assume that there was a lot more to it? then again he doesn’t really know.

byungho really did had doubts and wonder from time to time what if he was an idol and after giving that a try he really believes that acting was for him - it always was. “never doubt your dreams and passion.” a lesson that he learn today.

taking a moment to think about his experience with lgc spring boys and just the boys themselves he had to admit that that they as a whole “I like to think we all did really well.” for a group of random guys that was put together.

byungho nodded his head “to be fair, this is all very new to me, so I really tired my best. I have my weak points and i’m thankful for the guys who were more than willing to help me be better in the skill set I was weak in.” it was like a realization that he had that this, this right here is what team work was like. where you lack your teammate helps you out. working alone really did felt different compare to having a group of teammates that you can lean on. “we did our best, and work together day and night to give our best performance so that’s why I think we did our best.” could they had done better sure, but one thing he doesn’t like to do these days is dwell on the negativity.

“i’m really happy that I got the chance to enjoy this experience.” he said looking straight ahead “the feeling of performing was fun. I think the most fun I had was filming the music videos - that’s something that I hope I get to do more in the future.” byungho said as a smiled form on his face. “see you at the next lgc boys!” byungho said with a wink, but laughing right afterwards to indicate it was joke.

#lgc:springboys #⏤ solo #⏤ lgc spring boys reflection

4 notes · View notes

totaldramafan-lauri · 4 months

Text

2023

The year that kept on giving and giving.

While not everything was great, I can confidently say that this year was overall positive for me, and thank god, since the last few months of 2022 left me so depressed and exhausted that I was legit pessimistic about recovering from it.

And I did.

Despite some lingering feelings, I'm happy to say that I'm mostly over it. I've chosen not to dwell on it anymore, and I accepted that I can't influence the thoughts of other people I have no control over. All I can do is...improve.....and I have. I've improved a lot this year. Which....actually, that WAS my new year's resolution for 2023, wasn't it? Just to get better? In that regard....can I be proud of myself....? I know it isn't much, but...

I have a lot to thank for making this a good year for me. My interests were VERY kind to me, from Eurovision being great this year, Helluva Boss releasing a LOTTA episodes including three that I absolutely adored, getting to fight on Team Shiver in Splatoon 3 and winning, ushering in the Era Of Shiver, and finally.....CRK continuing to not only be my comfort game all year, but then not only topping itself, but BLOWING MY MIND with releasing Golden Cheese and me reacting SO STRONGLY to her that I'm STILL r-reeling from it....o/////o

Not only that, but....I'm still writing. I can be proud of that, too.

I know things will never quite be the same as they were, but....that's fine. I'm still in a pretty good place.

Three characters that made my life better in 2023 (if you're reading this, did you have any?):

As for 2024....I have two goals for this year, but technically, one isn't all up to me right now, and it's more personal, so I'll save it for (hopefully) later when I'm ready to share.

And the other one is pretty simple, and that's just Finish The Damn Fic.

---You can stop reading here if you don't care about this topic---

Seriously, this thing has been an undertaking, and working on it DAILY since October has been both tiring and fun at the same time. At this point, even if no one reads it, it's gonna feel SO GOOD when it's all done. SOOOOO GOOD! >.< Like I said before: I don't think this'll be my fav fic I've written (Naivete is just so special to me), but it'll be the biggest project I've EVER put my name on. I don't wanna rush any part of it.......I wanna get it as good as I can.

Cuz....H-Her Radiance, she....d-deserves it....

Regarding the fic, for those who care, I have two bits of good news! One is that, according to the outline of the chapters I have yet to write and the number of scenes in each one.....I think- I THINK- I'm near the halfway point of the story. That, or I JUUUUUST reached it. I'm working on the longest chapter. Once I finish chapter 3, I have three more full chapters, and I think 4 and 5 are gonna be shorter chapters than 3, with 6 being definitely the shortest.

Which leads me to the other point: I'm coming up on a good stopping point for chapter 3. It isn't the ending I WANTED, but the chapter is just so big that I'm gonna have to stuff all my leftover ideas into chapter 4.

This means that, yes....in the next few days, you guys are getting the next chapters.

P-part of me is nervous about this, since....again, it isn't the ending I wanted....b-but I don't wanna wait to post until I finish the WHOLE NEW CHAPTER 4 I didn't plan for. I dunno how long that's gonna take, and....

Well, something I'm looking forward to is coming in a couple weeks, and I wanna enjoy that thing and give it my attention without stressing about the fic too much. I wanna post on AO3 sometime in January, then release the rest of the chapters as I finish them.

It's looking like 2024's gonna be starting out on a good note....I'm nervous, but excited at the same time.....>__<

I really hope that I'm ready for this.....

#lauri talks to herself #happy new year #seriously 2023 was great in many ways #heres hoping 2024 builds on it somehow

0 notes

coolwyou · 1 year

Text

050623 | very antsy

at least it isn't literal ants!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i finished my finals and i'm just waiting for my grades to come in. i truthfully didn't understand the topics this semester, but i tried my best i think. i'm not taking summer classes, so i'm scrambling to try to find a summer internship before my work-study position ends later this month. in hindsight, i should've applied for these sooner, but i didn't know what the plan was until a couple weeks ago honestly.

other than that, i'm taking a different kind of class next semester! i usually take one fully online and one fully in-person class each semester, but this time i'm taking one in-person class and one that is online, but meets online at a set time. i've never done this, so i hope i do well (if it's anything like the same mental process as "going to a work meeting" for me, i should be just fine).

that's about it for school updates now! i just hope by the end of the week i can give some good news about my grades... i am honestly pretty worried about it but i can't dwell on it now. i'll put some personal updates under the cut!

my vacation ended last sunday, the people i was with left early and i am still pretty sad about it. i don't really think it's a "typical" sadness about people i care about leaving or a vacation ending, it just feels so much more hopeless. i wouldn't call it depression necessarily but it definitely is an issue that i need to address before it gets worse. i just am not satisfied (to put it lightly) with my life at all right now, maybe just in my relationships but that's about it. there's so much i need and want to change but can't for different, outside-of-my-control reasons.

anyway, i went to a religious thing a friend invited me to today. i am not a religious person, though i did do catholic confirmation, but i wanted to go because sometimes i find the methods they use for talking things through or connecting with others to be pretty helpful outside the context of religion. it was pretty fun, though now i am worried i will get sick again because i was the only one in a mask and we were indoors the entire time with not so great A/C.

i am trying to occupy my time now that school is on pause for the summer. i hate just sitting and doing nothing day after day. i'm really hoping a few things (getting a PS5, getting a summer internship, volunteering at the church) work out and i can have a nice summer.

#kayos daily recap

0 notes

hotdogdynamitezzz · 1 year

Note

Hello! I just saw ur post and I'd love to participate in your event, but since I am new here I hope it won't be a problem 💗.

I'd love compatibility ratings for I and my crush. I hope I did this right lol (the chart with sun in gemini is mine and his sun is in sag)

OMG YASS I love compatibility ratings fr I am so so excited.

Okay let's start off with sun signs. The Gemini - Sagittarius polarity is one of my favorites and I ALWAYS see these two in committed long-term relationships. Like seriously these two sun signs cant get enough of each other because their lifestyles compliment one another so well. What's better than two curious signs that love to learn and the other loves to teach? And both are super fun and full of energy.

Moon in Aries square Moon in Capricorn can definitely bring a lot of attraction tbh. There's a need to understand and just be near each other with an intense emotional connection but you could also easily become frustrated with one another. However the difference in emotions and behavior is admirable between the two and because it's in cardinal signs your hard-working and ambitious sides are admired from both ends. Fire & Earth can clash because they are both stubborn and headstrong, but they both value each other's differences. Capricorn likes Aries moons passionate and initiative nature while Aries appreciates Capricorns grounded and rational personality that can guide Aries and work as a power duo

We have an Inconjunct or also known as Quincunx Mercury in Sagittarius against Mercury in Cancer. Now this isn't the worst inconjunction because I generally find Cancers emotional awareness and understanding communicative skills and perceptive abilities to fit Sagittarius Mercuries well as sometimes Sag can struggle with communication because Mercury is Detriment in Sagittarius so this can lead to avoidance or flighty communication skills, sometimes they can believe they're always right but Sagittarius mercuries are also really wise & insightful which pairs with Cancer mercuries well. They also think creatively and are down to pursue new topics quickly. So this inconjunction might bring conflict In terms of Cancers Mercuries cautious nature always making sure to be considerate before speaking and can dwell on topics sometimes. While Sagittarius Mercuries want to move on from potential arguments and not dwell on problems too much, they'd rather take initiative to solve them and can be too blunt for cancers liking.

In general tho I like the Cancer - Sagittarius axis cuz they just bring understanding and enrichment to one another. But this would definitely cause some conflict.

Next we Have Venus in Capricorn trine Venus in Taurus which is really nice. You both value loyalty, stability, sensuality & reliability in relationships and can easily provide that for one another. You're both goal oriented and very practical in relationships. It could start off as a slow burn relationship and is generally very compatible as two earth signs love to just chill with each other tbh lol.

Onto Mars we have another Trine between Mars in Libra & Mars in Gemini. Two air signs will loveeee passionate topics being discussed, naturally energetic conversations will come easily to you, when it comes to pda of any form it will be light and fluffy, often filled with giggles and jokes. You both have a lot of passion towards intellectual stimulating conversations 🥰

Overall rate Imma give this an 8/10 because the Mercury and Moon could come into conflict and aren't technically compatible but you also have A LOT of trines so the attraction and natural flow of shared values in relationships is very balanced.

#asks #ask game #astro asks #ask blog

0 notes

peachykeenmomster · 1 year

Text

2.13.23

Welp, it’s time again for another update! What have I been up to this past week and a half? Well… I finished all my school work for unit 1 a week early, as I mentioned in my last post. So I took advantage of such an occasion and allowed myself a mental break from school. I really want to continue to do well so it is important that I don’t let myself get burned out. During this time, I did some leisure reading. I finished “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides a couple days ago and am about a chapter away from finishing “The Sociopath Next Door” by Dr. Martha Stout.

I thoroughly enjoyed “The Silent Patient” and it is easily a 5/5 rating for me! It is one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller or suspense novel… bonus points if you enjoy Greek mythology and Greek tragedies. It is well written and is a page turner. I won’t give a formal rating for “The Sociopath Next Door” because I have not finished it. But so far it is also an enjoyable read. My only regret is reading these two books simultaneously.. they are too similar in theme and at times were difficult for me to keep straight in my mind.

I have just started reading the classic William Golding novel “Lord of the Flies”. I somehow have made it over 27 years without ever reading this book, and I’ve been told I am doing myself a disservice… we will see in due time if that is an accurate statement.

Reading is not the only thing I’ve been up to this past week. We finally rescheduled my sons birthday party and we had it this past Saturday. The turnout for his party wasn’t great.. hell.. it was actually terrible to be quite honest. It broke my momma heart that more people didn’t show up for my baby. But that is out of my control, so I have really tried not to dwell on it. Albeit, I haven’t done great on not dwelling.. I’m trying to do better. My son had a great time and that’s all that matters at the end of the day.

However, after experiencing such disheartenment, I don’t think I have it in me to put myself through the disappointment again next year. I think a small family get away trip will do just fine to celebrate his birthday and not have to stress over who will show up and who won’t. Hell, I might even save a little money that way… probably not but it certainly will be just as fun. While on the topic of this birthday party.. let me just go ahead and give some friendly advice. If you get invited to a kids birthday party and you are able bodied, please JUST GO. It’s a couple hours out your day, and it will mean the world to that kid and the parent who spent so much time planning it. Can’t afford a gift? Go anyways. It’s not all about the presents. Running behind and don’t think you can make it on time? Go anyways, no one’s going to hold that against you or care that you were a little late. Please. Just. Go. *drops mic, gently steps down from soap box”

Thank you for taking time to read my post! Until next time ✌🏻

#studyblr #momblogger #momblr #momsofinstagram

1 note · View note

maximons · 3 years

Text

Tricks And Treats

Summary: Pietro tries to get Wanda and Y/n to finally admit their feelings for each other and takes them to a haunted house. Too bad Wanda is a full on scaredy cat...or is that exactly what is needed?

Word Count: 2,915

Genre: Fluff

Requested?: Yes

A/N: Finally back with the Fluff! Here’s that one shot I promised like a week ago lmao Happy Reading!

Halloween was for sure your favorite holiday.

You knew you were in the minority with that thought, seeing most people picked Christmas as their favorite, but you didn’t care. You always loved the time of year that came with Halloween, your birthday fell pretty close to it, you get to dress up and pretend to be someone else for a day, and it’s full on spooky season! What wasn’t there to love?

Well apparently a lot, at least according to your best friend Wanda.

For someone who’s a witch, you find it very funny that she doesn’t like the holiday.

You first met Wanda during the whole Ultron situation, back then she took on a more ‘emo’ appearance. Don’t tell anyone you said this, but you wouldn’t mind if she adopted the look again cause damn, so you just assumed Halloween and all things spooky would be for her, right?

Wrong.

You quickly learned that Wanda was not a fan of scary. You remember asking her to go see this new horror movie with you, it was your first time hanging out alone together and you just figured it’d be something she was into.

By the end of the movie, her face was buried in her knees, and she didn’t believe you when you told her the movie was over. The poor teenager working the theater was pretty annoyed with you both.

Needless to say, you didn’t bother her about anything spooky related again.

So when Pietro came to you two asking if you wanted to go to the new haunted house in town, you were beyond shocked that she agreed without a second thought.

“Uh, Wanda are you sure?” You asked, very hesitant. “I don’t know if you’ve ever been to a haunted house before, but-”

“I know what they are, Y/n.” Wanda cut you off before you finished, seeming very enthused, which confused you more. “I think it’ll be really cool!”

“Yeah...Wands, I know this group. This isn’t your typical ‘few scary decorations with the occasional light jump scare’ thing. These guys are intense.” You tried again. You didn’t know what had gotten into the witch, but you were sure she was making a mistake here.

“Y/n/n, relax. I’m not a child, I can handle myself. Trust me, okay? It’ll be great!” The bright smile on Wanda’s face was always a sight you welcomed, but it confused you in the moment. Still, you knew once her mind was set on something...let’s just say it’d be easier to find all the infinity stones than to talk her out of it.

“Alright, if you say so.” You shrugged, deciding it was best to drop the topic. Besides, she was right, Wanda’s a grown woman who can make her own choices. You just get to wait to be able to tell her that her choice was a stupid one. “So Friday night?” You asked Pietro, who nodded excitedly.

“Friday night!” He confirmed.

“Okay, cool.” You took another quick sip of your morning coffee before setting your mug down. “I gotta get ready for training. So happy to be working with Steve today instead of Nat, he’s always a walk in the park.” You said sarcastically with a roll of your eyes. “Wish me luck.”

The twins wished you luck as you left the room to go get ready. After they were sure you were out of earshot, the witch turned to her brother. “This is your plan? Are you crazy?”

“I know, I know, but trust me, okay?” He reassured, walking to the fridge to grab himself a drink. “Y/n loves this stuff, and as she is the love of your life-”

“Whoa, whoa, I-I never said-”

“-You should experience the things that she loves to do.” Pietro finished, ignoring his sister’s intervention. “I’ll do my best to stay out of your guys’ way, and you have the whole evening to yourselves. Sounds perfect to me.”

“Yeah, until I act like a complete, how do they say, ‘spaz’ around her again.” Wanda sighed, leaning on the kitchen counter in defeat.

“You won’t. You know what kind of things to expect now. And if you do freak out, all the more reason to be by her side. She will protect you.”

Wanda looked at her brother in confusion. “I can protect my self.”

Pietro rolled his eyes playfully. “Not what I meant. You will see, sestra.”

Friday night came before you know it, and you, Wanda and Pietro were waiting in the line to buy your tickets to enter.

“Holy shit, this is a long line.” Pietro complained, causing you to chuckle.

“Not surprising. It’s the week before Halloween, weather’s nice, and this group doesn’t come to New York a whole lot. More surprised it isn’t longer actually.” You shrugged.

“Why don’t they come to New York? I thought this was one of America’s more popular states?” Wanda asked.

“It is, but ever since Loki invaded and our merry band of misfits formed, tourism and things like this have been down a whole lot.” You leaned down to get closer to Wanda’s ear. “I guess we’ve been the scary ones all along.” You joked, but Wanda was more focused on trying to calm down and forget the feeling of your breath against her ear.

“Everything alright there, Wanda?” Pietro asked after a moment, teasing smirk on his face. Before Wanda could even fire back, a voice from in front of you spoke up.

“No way! You guys are Avengers!” The group in front of you turned around, one of the guys recognized you instantly.

“Uh, yes...we are.” Wanda awkwardly stated. You knew Wanda hated fan interactions, and to be honest you weren’t a fan of these situations either. They were unpredictable. The Avengers were either beloved or despised, and you’ve been on both ends of the reaction spectrum. Wanda and Pietro, unfortunately, have seen a lot more animosity than you and the others.

Honestly, you couldn’t even fault the ones that didn’t love you guys. You weren’t ignorant and knew your battles have caused a lot of problems for a lot of people. You could sympathize, but that didn’t mean you wanted to be on the receiving end of that anger. Especially not when you were trying to just have a fun night out with your friends. “Look guys, we’re really just here to have a good time. We don’t wanna cause a scene.” You said.

“Nah, nah, it’s cool. I think you guys are awesome!” The guy said, and it was clear to you then that the dude was baked out of his mind. “Especially you, with the red wiggly woos!” He pointed to Wanda as he gave a terrible impression of her hand movements. You smiled, happy to see a fan interaction go well for Wanda.

The joy you felt didn’t last long though, as another guy in the group turned to you, blunt in his hand. “Hey, you’re the fire one right? Can you do me a solid?” He gestured to you, asking you to give him a light. You sighed, the twins chuckling at the situation.

“Yeah, but don’t ask again.” You ignited the tip of your finger, gently placing it on the end of the blunt. The group turned around in line and continued to go about their own conversation. You felt Wanda elbow your side, and you turned to see a smirk on her face. When you heard Pietro’s snicker, you groaned.

“Shut up.”

“Look at you, helping delinquents. Aren’t you supposed to be a superhero? Bringer of justice and all of that?” Wanda teased and you rolled your eyes playfully.

“Yeah, but I’m the fun one. It’s just weed.” You said confidently, but the witch saw through it and you dropped the act. “And the last time that happened and I said no, the dude burst into tears.” You said under your breath.

“There it is.” She smiled, and you couldn’t help but smile back despite you being the subject of mockery. You loved seeing her smile, you didn’t care about the reason why.

Before you knew it, Pietro announced that you guys were next in line to buy tickets. He bought his and stepped aside so you can go next. “Hi, two please.” Wanda turned to you with her eyebrows scrunched in confusion.

“Wha- Y/n, I can afford it.” She chuckled nervously, flattered by the action.

“I know, but when I have to drag you out of here cause you’re paralyzed in fear, at least you won’t regret dropping forty bucks on it.” You shrugged as you handed the cashier your credit card.

Wanda’s face reddened, something she quickly tried to hide from her brother who was enjoying this way too much. Her flustered state faded quickly when she processed what you said. “Hey!” You chuckled before thanking the cashier as she returned your card.

“Please go to the table to sign your waivers, entrance is down that hill. Enjoy your night.” The monotone voice told you that the poor woman’s been working all night. You didn’t have time to dwell on that though as you felt a panicked tapping on your arm.

“What’s wrong? We haven’t even entered yet.” You teased.

“W-what did she mean by waivers?” You chuckled at the panicked tone in the witch’s voice.

“Just means if you have a heart attack or something, you can’t sue.” You shrugged nonchalantly, but Wanda took it very seriously and turned to you with even wider eyes.

“That can happen!?”

“Well, it happened at least once if the thought of doing a waiver.” You answered, once again, nonchalantly. You looked at Wanda and could swear you saw her blood run cold. You laughed, which resulted in you receiving a glare. “Relax, Wan, you’ll be fine. You’re an Avenger, you’ve faced off against killer robots, stared death in the face time and time again!” You exclaimed dramatically as you waved your arms. You noticed Wanda start to smile and relax her shoulders.

“Thanks, Y/n.” She gave you a sweet smile, and you couldn’t help but melt.

“Yeah, anytime.” Your eyes locked with Wanda, you were about to look away but couldn’t. ‘Wow, were her eyes always this green? They’re beautiful.’ You thought.

A blush appeared on the witch’s face as she tore her gaze from you. You were about to ask what happened, but were interrupted. “Let’s go slow pokes!” Pietro’s voice shouted, effectively breaking the moment.

“Yeah, yeah Sonic, we’re coming!” You rolled your eyes as you shouted back. Wanda giggled at the banter between you and her brother, she loved that you two were close. With that, you and her headed down the hill towards the entrance.

After about a half hour, it seemed Wanda was holding up well. The three of you walked out of the corn maze, and she had a triumphant smile on her face. “I thought you said this place was scary.” She teased causing you to roll your eyes playfully.

“Congratulations you survived the corn maze, you get to join the hall of fame with the other twelve year-olds.” As if to emphasize your point, three twelve year-olds ran out of the maze in giggles, clearly unaffected. Wanda pouted. “Aw, don’t worry. I thought you were very brave.” You teased yet again, which resulted in an elbow to the side.

“You’re a jerk.” Wanda held back a smile as she strutted forward. You laughed as you jogged forward to catch up.

“Alright, are you guys ready for the big one?” Pietro asked and your eyes widened.

“Oh, Piet, I don’t think that’s a good idea.” You said as you nudged your head towards Wanda, hinting that you didn’t think she could handle that. Unfortunately, she caught on.

“Aw come on, Y/n. I’m not a baby.”

“I know, but you can’t go from the corn maze to...that.” You gestured towards the haunted maze entrance, a giant purple demon with smoke blowing out of it’s ears looming over. You guys turned at the sound of screams, and saw a group run out of the maze in fear, which then dissolved into laughter.

“They seem to be having fun.” Wanda gestured towards the group.

“Yeah, after the screams of terror.” You shot back. “You can’t go from walking around the block to running a marathon.”

“Oh yeah? Watch me.” Wanda strutted forward towards the entrance, determined to prove you wrong.

You groaned as you looked over to Pietro, who watched the whole ordeal with a cheeky smile. “Your sister’s insane.”

“Yeah, but you love it.” Pietro said under his breath, but you still heard it.

“What?”

“Nothing!” With that, the man sped forward, catching up to his sister at the entrance. You stared after him for a moment in shock before joining them.

The three of you walked the path, and everything seemed to be going well...for all of five seconds. The first jump scare happened behind Wanda. The loud screech startled her, and she jumped with a scream. She stumbled into your arms, and you wrapped them around her in order to keep her from falling. You chuckled, and Wanda looked up at you with the intention to glare. However, when your eyes locked again, Wanda couldn’t help but stare.

You, of course, had to ruin the moment. “Not too late to turn back, y’know. This is just the beginning.” Wanda groaned and pulled away from you, continuing forward. You laughed. “You can hold my hand if you want!” You don’t know what compelled you to say that, but you knew you weren’t entirely joking.

And you didn’t regret it when Wanda reached out and held your hand without another word. You smiled, squeezing her hand.

What you didn’t see was Pietro giving Wanda a thumbs up as you both walked past.

At some point, you guys lost Pietro in the dark maze. Wanda wasn’t even worried as she still held your hand tightly, and you knew the man would be fine and he’ll meet up with you at the exit.

Wanda had been holding up better than you thought. You wouldn’t say she was good per say, seeing as she screamed and practically jumped into your arms at the slightest sound, but she hadn’t collapsed on the ground in tears yet, so you’d count that as a win.

“Gotta say, Maximoff. I’m impressed.” You said as you two walked down the maze hand in hand.

“I’m just being that super brave Avenger like you said.” Wanda giggled, and you couldn’t help but melt at the noise.

“Well you’re doing an awesome job. Even if the last three guys almost made you pee your pants.” You laughed loudly as you took in the shocked reaction the woman gave you.

“Y/n!” She scolded, but before you could even respond, the worst jump scare yet occurred.

A large animatronic growled and lowered from the ceiling right behind Wanda. The witch turned to look briefly as she screamed loudly and jumped to you again. This time, however she literally jumped into your arms. You quickly braced your hands under her thighs, catching her, as she wrapped her legs around your waist. The force from the jump caused you to stumble back into a darker corner of the maze. Your back hit a hay wall, and you and Wanda laughed at the moment. Your laughter continued for a moment, and Wanda lifted her head from your shoulder to look into your eyes. Both of you got quiet as you continued to stare, sensing the moment shift.

“You okay?” You whispered, almost as if talking to loudly would shatter the moment. Wanda nodded, eyes still locked onto yours. After a moment of silence, she spoke up.

“Y’know...I think a distraction would help.” Your eyebrows shot up at the insinuation. You doubted you heard her correctly, but when you saw her eyes shift down to your lips, you knew what she wanted. And you wouldn’t lie and say you didn’t want it too.

“I...Yeah, I think I could help with that.” You barely got your sentence out when Wanda smashed her lips to yours roughly. You tightened your hold on her thighs as she wrapped her arms around your neck. You stood there, making out roughly against the wall of the maze. As wild and sudden as this was, you wouldn’t trade this moment for anything.

Pietro noticed you two were gone for a really long time. He was beginning to get concerned, and pulled out his phone ready to call one of you. Turns out he didn’t need to.

You two came out of the maze, only you weren’t alone. You and Wanda each had a security guard holding your arm. After you two were out of the maze completely, they let you go and walked off. It was then that Pietro noticed both of your disheveled states. And he could swear he saw two or three hickeys forming on your neck.

“No you didn’t-” He started, but you cut him off.

“Not a word.” Your hand found it’s way to Wanda’s as you guys walked towards the exit of the park, figuring it’d be bad Avengers press if you guys stayed any longer at this point. You had an awesome night anyway, and didn’t care if it ended a little early. Besides, you had a feeling you’d get to have some more...fun when you got back to the compound.

You didn’t notice Pietro high five Wanda’s free hand.

#wanda maximoff imagine #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff x you #wanda maximoff x reader

574 notes · View notes

frostfrau · 2 years

Text

Rhaast as boyfriend headcanons + nsfw

-Your relationship started off fairly questionably. Well, let's just say he didn't quite get that the both of you were dating until 3 months in. To his defense, you never made an official statement but he's also just stupid, especially if it comes to feelings.

-As far as he used to be aware, you were his little human. His plaything. His victim of terrible humor.

-But one day, when you where comfortably nestled in his lap, drifting off a bit from exhaustion, he realized that you where not his little frail and oh so poor human, he was your stupidly loud Darkin. It took a moment to settle in. To realize that he was in fact always following you, not the other way around. At first, he got angry, he wanted to accuse you of everything and nothing at the same time. He wasn't some stupid lap dog! He is Rhaast! Oh but you look so at peace during sleep. Well, his anger can wait for a bit.

-He isn't exactly romantic but it's the small things that count. He remembers pretty much everything you say and when you mention something like "I miss the garlic bread of my mom", he might just snatch some from a poor baker.

-He also isn't that bright when it comes to delicate things. So if you try to get him to hold your hand, well, you'll have to tell him straight in the face otherwise he has no clue what your weird hand movement is supposed to say.

-He is quite the Himbo when you think about it, well, to you at least. He's hot, muscular and genuinely sweet to you, even if his understanding of your emotions and limits are debatable. He's still rough, rude, crosses the line with his jokes and taunts sometimes,,, a lot but his almost puppy like affection does shine through.

-Like really, he dwells in your attention and he is almost always at your side. Makes it really hard to surprise him with anything because he knows.

-Besides that he loves physical attention. Be it hugs, holding hands, caressing his skin, leaning on him or straight up slapping his face.

-Definetly the stupid man type. Meaning that it isn't hard to make him do things. Really, if he thinks he came up with an idea and then even praises him for doing it, well-. You could pretty much just say "Man, I haven't eaten anything sweet in quite some time" and he'd later bake you a cake

-While on that topic, he's an ungodly good baker and cook? You have no idea how, when, why but you appreciate his food nonetheless.

-Another surprising talent, or well knowledge he has is about art and especially architecture. It's not that far fetched when you think about the fact that he did grow up in Shurima but it's Rhaast??

-He won't stop his hunting just because of you. He might get a bit more considerate of who he kills but it doesn't change the fact that he basically gets off to a massacre. If murder isn't exactly your taste, then hey, he will at least not drag you into it, expect to be on cleaning-up-blood duty though.

-But oh if you do have taste be up for some fun. He will make out with you in a pool of blood, no way around it.

-At some point in your relationship you got sick, nothing fatal, really, but you sure looked dead. Rhaast never quite realized that you, a human, are, well, a human. Even with all the strength a human can muster, a monster could easily rip them apart, a bad infection could cost an arm, hell, even just an unfortunate sickness could mean death. He can’t remember the last time he felt pain but oh, seeing you like that made his heart ache in a way he never thought was possible. That made him a lot more protective of you.

-Other upsides are that, if you don’t have anything planned this weekend, get ready for an adventure on trying to find out methods to prolong your life!

NSFW:

-Rhaast is one horny piece of shit. He won’t force you if you aren’t in the mood but he’ll surely take every opportunity he has to make you needy.

-Don't expect some sweet or soft sex, c'mon, it's Rhaast, he'll fuck your brains out. Rough, fast, hard, best he can do is wait a bit for you to adjust.

-Sadistic and degrading. Bruises, cuts, bites. He loves hearing you cry out while calling you a whore.

-Funnily enough that goes both ways. Slap his face, yank him to your level with his horns, spit in his mouth and call him a good boy and he'd be rock hard.

-Definitely has a breeding kink.

-Would be up for pretty much anything really, if you have a fun or risky idea just tell him.

-Very sweet aftercare though. Rhaast will lick your tears away and hold you close. Depending on the surroundings he'd eather help you clean up or just make you a hot bath.

#league of legends #rhaast #darkin #lol #lol darkin #lol Rhaast #league Rhaast #rhaast x reader #league of legends rhaast

101 notes · View notes

arrowflier · 3 years

Note

Hi I don't have tumblr, so not sure how this works. Came across your blog though, and spent three days just reading everything you've written and reblogged. Such a fun three days! I have so many ideas for prompts, but the one I'm most curious about is what happens when Ian has a rough patch of mania maybe a couple years into their marriage and what kind of plans do Mickey and Ian have for either an upswing or a downswing of his bipolar? Thanks so much excited to see what you come up with!

Hi there! It's such a compliment that you went through my rambles, glad you're enjoying.💖 Standard disclaimer: everything I know about bipolar disorder comes from the internet. It's an important part of Ian that I want to be respectful of, so as always please let me know if I miss the mark.

Caring for your partner, Rule 1: Be There

When Mickey woke up, Ian wasn’t in bed.

That wasn’t terribly unusual in and of itself. What was unusual was that it was only 3AM, on a Saturday, and Mickey could already hear his husband moving outside their room. The footsteps outside the door were soft, restrained, like Ian didn’t want to wake him. But the following clatter in the kitchen was alarmingly loud as Ian opened the drawer under the oven to pull out a pan, and Mickey groaned.

He wanted to roll over, pull a pillow over his head, and block out whatever this was so he could go back to sleep. They’d been working long days, and sometimes longer nights as the dispensaries were all pulling overtime with increasing demand. They’d only made it to bed like two hours ago, for fuck’s sake, and Mickey was tired.

But Ian should have been tired too, and it was never a good sign when he wasn’t. So Mickey sat up with a sigh, rubbing his eyes with the heel of his hand, and swung his legs out of bed.

He winced when his bare feet touched the cold wooden floor. They had been here for almost a year already, and they still hadn’t gotten ‘round to buying a fucking rug for the bedroom.

Mickey shivered as he hopped awkwardly toward the closed bedroom door, grabbing his robe from a hook there and tugging it on over his thin shirt and the boxers he was pretty sure started out on Ian’s side of the dresser. Wrapping it closed, he slipped out the door and into the brightly lit hallway, squinting blearily as he followed the sound of pots and pans to the kitchen.

Ian had half their crockery out on the counter already. His red hair gleamed under the sharp light of the long fluorescent bulbs overhead as he stirred batter in a large bowl they had borrowed from Debbie last week and never given back, wooden spoon clanking against the sides erratically.

Erratically. That was a good word for it, Mickey thought. The mindless clink clink clink of wood on metal in no discernible pattern, just like the route Ian took around their table, to the counter, to the fridge, and back to the oven again. Mindless, pacing, random.

Mickey leaned against the wall, and watched.

They had talked about this, since the last time. At least, since the last time Mickey had been worried. When Ian was down, when he didn’t want to get up. When Mickey dragged him out on his first run and they talked afterward in the kitchen, when Mickey made clear that his worry was just one more face of what they had together.

He’d come down the next morning to Ian at the kitchen table, the whole place eerily quiet for a place they still shared with too many fucking people. There had been coffee in the pot, toast on the table, and Ian, picking at his cuticles and not meeting Mickey’s eyes.

“We need to talk,” he’d said, and Mickey’s heart had dropped into his stomach.

“Can I wake the fuck up first?” he’d asked, but Ian had just kicked a chair out for him and waited, not meeting his eyes, until Mickey sat down.

They’d sat silently for a long moment, Mickey unwilling to ask what it was about. Finally, Ian had sighed, and reached out for Mickey’s hand across the table.

“It’s about the bipolar,” he’d said, and Mickey had been so relieved he could feel it in his fucking toes, bare and cold against the tile floor.

“Oh. Okay.”

Ian had been startled by his easy acceptance of the topic, he could tell.

“That’s it?” He’d sounded almost confused.

Mickey had shrugged.

“I mean, yeah?” He’d rubbed the rest of the sleep from his eyes with the hand no holding Ian’s. “You had me worried, man, with the we need to talk thing. But this is just normal shit.”

Ian had just stared at him, then released his hand to lean back against his chair.

“Normal?” He’d asked disbelievingly. “There’s nothing normal about planning for my imminent mental break, Mickey.

Mickey had snorted at the irony of it. “You kidding me?” he’d said. “It’s the most normal fucking thing about us.”

As he watched Ian in the kitchen now, making pancakes at 3AM on a Saturday morning, Mickey thought that was probably still true.

“Hey, Martha Stewart,” he said softly from his position against the wall, still leaning there as Ian spun around with surprise painted over his face. His eyes were off, the light not quite there, but they still warmed when he saw Mickey.

“Hey,” Ian said back, voice high and too chipper. “I’m making pancakes, you want some? I’ve got banana, your favorite, and chocolate chips, and strawberries…”

He went on to list more ingredients, but Mickey wasn’t really listening. He could see it all anyway, spread out over the kitchen like so many half-made decisions, half-baked ideas that kept giving way to something else.

“Mickey?” Ian asked, and he snapped out of it.

“Yeah,” he answered with a smile. “Yeah, I’d love some pancakes. Why don’t you let me stir for a awhile?”

—

They had their pancakes standing up next to the counter, nowhere left to rest their plates on the crowded surfaces of the kitchen. Ian talked about the merits of each ingredient as they ate, and Mickey listened, and nodded along as best he could.

This was okay. It was pancakes in their boxers at 3AM with no sleep in a kitchen that looked like it was hit by a tornado, but Ian was eating, and Ian was smiling, and Ian was there.

And when Ian stopped and tried to set his plate down, distress on his face as he was confronted with the mess he had made, Mickey took the dish from him with easy hands.

“You want to sit down awhile?” he tried, nudging Ian gently out of the disaster-zone. “Bet you’re tired after eating all that.”

He knew Ian wasn’t, but he kept a hand on his back anyway until they were out in the living room, next to the sofa. Mickey let go to sit down himself with a groan, tired muscles aching at being used for too long without rest. He kept his eyes off Ian, just standing there, looking at him in that too-present, too-absent way of his, and leaned back against the cushions, eyes falling closed.

After a moment, the sofa dipped as Ian settled in beside him.

“Mickey?” Ian asked. The cushions bounced as he tapped his heel repeatedly on the floor.

“Yeah?” Mickey responded, squinting his eyes back open.

“Can I touch you?”

Mickey repressed the urge to sit up, to take Ian into his arms. Ian sounded too hesitant, a shift from moments before as he playfully shoved bites of overcooked batter into Mickey’s mouth.

But Ian didn’t like to be held like this.

“Of course you can, you moron,” Mickey said instead, and watched as Ian’s leg stopped moving. The other man drew closer, reaching a hand out to card through Mickey’s hair and drag down the side of his face, a touch too shaky and a touch too firm.

Ian had once said that touching Mickey grounded him, and Mickey hadn’t known if Ian thought that was a good thing or not. In the midst of hypomania, Ian didn’t always take kindly to being grounded.

But tonight—well, this morning—it seemed to be a good thing. Mickey was grateful for that.

Grateful, because it meant that Ian looked like himself as he moved to lay against him, and not like some over-saturated facsimile painted with too much water on the canvas, always shifting, always running. Grateful, because it meant that Ian pulled Mickey’s arms around him and settled into his side like they always did, even if his body never quite stilled at the contact.

Grateful, because it meant they wouldn’t fight tonight. That Mickey wouldn’t have to worry as much about what Ian might say, might do, if he stepped out of line. If he went off the script they had planned on a good day for dealing with bad ones to come.

He wouldn’t have to call Lip for backup. He wouldn’t have to tail Ian as he left the apartment to make sure he stayed safe. He wouldn’t have hide the knives, or their wallets, or anything else.

Not that he would have complained if he did. It was what it was. Ian was who he was. And Mickey would always see him through it. Love him through it.

They lay there, mostly quiet, except for the mindless tune Ian hummed against his neck, and the tap tap tap of his fingers on Mickey’s collarbone.

Eventually, the song cut off.

“Do I need to call the doctor?” Ian asked quietly into the echoing room, and Mickey nodded, rubbing a gentle hand through his hair.

“Yeah,” he admitted. “I think so.”

He'd get everything together in the morning. Ian's journals, their schedule, their meal plan. The little notebook where he kept track of Ian's prescriptions, how they worked, how long they lasted.

Something had obviously slipped, either in their methods or in Ian himself. But Mickey was well past dwelling on what they could have done differently, and focused on what to do next.

Things happened. Things changed. They would adapt.

At Mickey's confirmation, Ian just nodded against him, fidgeting until their legs were too entwined to separate.

“Sleep first, if you can,” Mickey told him, settling in for a long rest of the night. “We’ll do it together when you wake up.”

Together. They’d do it together. Again and again and again, as much as they needed to. Because Ian was his husband, and this was their normal.

And their normal was still pretty damn good.

#daily speedwrite #fanfic #gallavich #mickey milkovich #ian gallagher #bipolar disorder #tw: mental health

232 notes · View notes