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wefoundloveunderthelight · 3 years

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Skyline Manor by GleefullyCaptainSwan Chapter 11/13

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Chapter 11: All I See is You

Emma woke up and stared at the text message she received the night before. She didn’t know what to make of the request from Killian to meet her tonight. She wasn’t sure what he wanted to talk about that he couldn’t just come over and tell her now. Why would he need to wait until 7pm to meet her on the roof?

She tried to stay busy throughout the day, cleaning her house, making her grocery list for the following week, while also fielding calls from her brother to find out how she was doing after her relationship with Graham had ended. He couldn’t understand what had gone wrong, but then Emma knew he had been too caught up in the possibility of Emma settling down that he never once stopped to ask her if Graham actually made her happy. Emma couldn’t fault him for that, she should have stopped and asked herself that question before it got to a place where Graham found himself on one knee in front of their friends.

Honestly, Emma hadn’t felt more at ease since ending things with Graham. She knew she could have just told him she wasn’t ready to get married without ending the relationship, but when he asked her to spend the rest of her life with him, she knew that it wasn’t just getting married to Graham that she was unable to do, it was in that moment that she knew being with him at all wasn’t right for her.

That evening, she wasn’t worried about her own feelings; she had mourned the destruction of her relationship with a glass of wine and a bar of chocolate. She was more concerned about Henry. She hated taking away yet another father figure from his life. However, the boy hardly seemed phased, and she realized that perhaps Henry wasn’t as taken with Graham as she wanted him to be.

“So, things seem to be going well with Belle.” Emma tried to ask without sounding too interested in how Killian’s ex was doing with her new relationship.

“Well enough that she’s not going back to him, if that’s what you’re worried about.” He teased.

“What?” Emma asked in shock. “My statement wasn’t about Killian. I just wanted to know how my best friend was doing with his new relationship.”

“Well then, your best friend is doing amazing. She’s bloody brilliant Em.” Emma could tell that Will was smitten with Belle. He hadn’t stopped smiling since they started going out and she loved seeing the smile permanently on his face. Will deserved someone who treated him as special as she had always seen him.

“I’m happy for you.” She responded, trying not to feel a pit of sadness forming in her stomach. She was happy for him, she just wondered if she would ever feel as happy as he did.

“Killian seems pretty happy for Belle, too. He even gave me some advice on her favorite foods and flowers so that I could cook for her this weekend.”

“That’s odd.” She chuckled.

“Not really, I mean the way Belle tells me, they never really had a serious relationship. They seem like really good friends though.”

Emma nervously cleaned the table, putting the dirty dishes into the sink, she looked down at her watch and realized it was almost 7pm. “Can you watch Henry for a little bit, I need to do something.”

“Yeah, everything alright?” Will asked.

“Oh yeah, I won’t be long.” Emma left the apartment and made her way to the roof, anxiety and curiosity starting to build up in her mind.

~*~

Killian wasn’t sure what Emma would need to discuss with him or why the need to wait until evening.

He had been surprised to find out that she declined Graham’s marriage proposal, but Henry didn’t seem to know anything about his mother’s text asking to meet with him. He resisted responding to her after he tried four different responses, none being satisfactory. In the end he opted to just leave the phone sitting on the counter. He would simply show up at 7pm and hope for the best.

At around 6:30, he found he could no longer sit in his apartment watching the clock. Instead, he headed to the roof to wait for Emma.

At 7:05 she walked through the door; an anxious worry written all over her face.

“Hey.”

“Hello, Swan.” He greeted the woman when she approached him.

“So…” She said as if she was waiting for him to start the conversation.

“What is the reason for all the secrecy?”

“Secrecy?” Her eyes narrowed. “You tell me.”

Killian chuckled. “I haven’t a clue, I assumed you would know the reason you asked me here.”

“I asked you here?”

“Aye.”

She shook her head. “That’s ridiculous. You asked me to meet you.”

“I can assure you I did no such thing, love.”

Emma dug into her pocket, producing her phone, a nervous laugh leaving her lips. “I’m not crazy.” She mumbled under her breath. “See, right here.” She held up the phone and Killian squinted to read the message on the screen. When he saw it came from him, he reached out and grabbed the phone from her hands.

“No that’s not possible.” Reaching into his pocket, he pulled his own phone, finding his message from Emma and holding it to her. “You can clearly see that you sent me the message last night.”

Emma looked at the two phones. “What the hell.”

“How is this possible?”

“I haven’t a clue, love. But it appears that someone is messing with us.”

“Who would do that? Besides, who has access to both of our phones?” Emma asked.

They both looked up at each other simultaneously and spoke. “Henry.”

“But why would the lad send this message?”

“I don’t know, but I’m about to go find out.” Emma said angrily, turning to leave when suddenly the boy in question appeared in the doorway. “Henry. We need to talk.”

“Sorry mom, I love you a lot but you’re too stubborn for your own good. You and Killian need to talk.” He looked at Killian. “You both need to stop running from each other. Killian, you don’t have to be alone, but you need to believe that you are worthy of being loved. And mom, true love can conquer anything, but you have to be willing to open yourself up to it.”

“Henry David Swan, this is not one of your fairytales, you can’t just…”

“Love you guys. I’ll be back in a bit.” And with that, the door slammed shut.

~*~

Henry pulled the door shut, turning the lock, effectively trapping his mother and Killian on the roof.

“Are you sure about this kid?”

Henry turned around, sitting on the step next to Will. “Mom always needs a little push when it comes to being honest with herself.” There was a bang on the door behind him and he heard his mother yelling, flinching he turned back to look at Will with a nervous laugh.

“Aye, I know this, but you also know that she’s gonna ground you until you turn 18. You weighed that risk right?”

He shrugged. “It’ll be worth it.” He said with a grin.

“I owe you a huge debt, Captain.” The King reached out to pass the bundle of coins into the man’s hand. “Should you ever find yourself in our Kingdom again, please make sure to make our acquaintance.”

“It was a pleasure meeting you, your highness.” Captain Jones paused. “I’m sure you are anxious for things to return to normal, with Baelfire behind bars, your sister is free to marry the Duke.”

The King laughed, “I’m afraid my sister is anything but normal. She has already informed me that she has decided not to marry the Duke.”

“Emm…Princess Swan does indeed appear to do things her own way.”

“I never did get a chance to apologize for my sister’s interference with your mission.”

“Apologizes are not necessary, she was of great assistance.”

“Emma has always wished for more than these stone walls.”

“You can’t cage a bird forever.” The Captain stated before rising to leave. “I must take my leave; I fear I have stayed too long, and the sea is calling my name.”

“Thank you again, Captain.”

Killian left the King, heading out of the castle to retreat to the Jolly to prepare her for sailing in the morning. As he rounded the corner he saw Master Henry waiting at the end of the corridor.

“Captain Jones!”

“Master Henry, so happy to see you well.”

“Are you leaving already?”

“Aye, this is not the only kingdom in need of my assistance, my crew and I must be on our way to Arendelle by first light.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Anything, lad.”

“I was wondering if you were in need of additional crew on the Jolly Roger?”

The Captain laughed. “Is this inquiry personal? I’m not certain your mother would approve.”

“I’m not a child. I’m not even officially a royal. I have no claim to the throne. My place here is unnecessary. I want to explore new worlds, find adventure, learn to sword fight like you.”

“Henry, I would be honored for you to join my crew, with your mother’s permission of course.”

“Really?”

“Aye, I’m always in need of good men who are willing to have my back. But I fear your mother may not be in agreement with you leaving the nest.”

“My mother might surprise you.” He said with a smile.

“I believe that. Your mother is not like many I have met.”

“Have you spoken to her?”

“Not since we turned Baelfire over to the Sheriff. A man of my stature does not seek out the company of royalty without being called upon.”

“I’m sure she will be sad to find that she missed you before you left.”

“I’m on my way to the Thirsty Lion; I need to rally the troops before we set sail in the morning. In case anyone would find themselves interested in joining my crew or needing to speak to me, that’s where they will find me until sundown.” He said with a wink.

“Thank you Captain.” Henry took his leave as the Captain left the castle, a nervous excitement taking over him.

After dinner, Henry found himself confronting his mother about the man they turned over to the Sheriff. “Why didn’t you tell me the truth about my father?”

“I didn’t want to hurt you, to make you think that you weren’t wanted. Your father may have left us, but you have always been loved Henry.”

“I never felt unloved, mother.”

Princess Emma wrapped her arms around her son and hugged him. “I’m sorry you had to find out this way.” She pulled back, looking at her son. “Why did you follow me to the Jolly Roger?”

“I didn’t. I was actually following Captain Jones. After he came to my room that evening, I just wanted to see what it was like to go on an adventure. I’m always stuck here in the castle.”

“Being royalty means we have responsibilities. It’s our duty to be here, to be seen.”

“But I’m not royalty. You are though. So why did you follow Captain Jones then?” He asked with a smirk. “That doesn’t seem like part of your responsibility. Uncle David says that you are supposed to be choosing a husband.”

“I suppose you are very much like your mother; I don’t like being told what to do either.”

“Do you not intend to marry the Duke?”

Princess Emma crinkled her nose, “I always thought my life would be so different than what it has become.”

“You wish for adventure too.”

“Why does a Princess have to stay in court, bound to a man of royal blood?”

“It’s a shame that Captain Jones isn’t sticking around.” Henry said with a sly smile.

“You’ve talked to him?”

“I saw him this morning when Uncle David met with him, he said that he was to set sail for Arendelle at first light.”

“Oh, is that so?” Her tone was full of disappointment and longing.

“I believe he was headed to the Thirsty Lion. He was sure to make mention of that in case anyone needed to speak with him before he lifted anchor.”

“Did he mention anyone specifically?”

“Of course not, that would be improper, would it not, Mother?” She kissed her son on the forehead, standing up and rushing to the door. “Mother.” She turned back to face him. “Wear the green cloak, it matches your eyes, and is less recognizable in public than the gold frock you tried to hide in when I tracked you.”

~*~

Killian watched as Henry stepped away into the stairwell, the large metal door slamming shut in slow motion.

“Shit.” Killian ran for the door, tugging on the handle but it wouldn’t budge. “Sneaky little bugger, he’s locked us out.”

“What? Are you kidding me?”

“I can assure you, love; it won’t budge.” Emma pushed past him and yanked on the handle.

“Oh, he’s grounded for a month!” She screeched as she kicked the door with her foot and Killian couldn’t stop the laugh escaping his mouth. She turned quickly. “Do you think this is funny?”

“Of course not, but I hardly think the punishment fits the crime.”

“He locked us on the rooftop because he thinks we are running away from true love. You realize that’s ridiculous, don’t you? There’s no such thing as true love, you find someone you don’t want to kill, and you hope for the best.”

He couldn’t hold in the sad laugh at her comment. Their eyes locked and Killian swallowed, his throat suddenly feeling dry. The boy did have an active imagination, that he was sure of since the literacy fair. However, his assessment that Killian was running wasn’t exactly a lie.

“Aye, I admit that the boy has a flair for the dramatics, however he makes a fair point, at least on my account.” Her eyes widened.

“You’re not telling me that you agree with him?”

“I didn’t say that Swan. I’m just saying that he makes a fair point. I’ve hurt more people than I care to admit in my quest to escape my past, Belle included.”

“I don’t understand, what are you escaping from?” She paused, horror framing her face. “Oh God, you aren’t a serial killer are you?”

“Bloody hell woman, you immediately jump to serial killer. The boy isn’t kidding, you do have trust issues.”

“He told you I have trust issues?”

Killian rolled his eyes. “Is he wrong?”

“No, but that’s not the point.” She pouted angrily.

Killian paced his spot on the roof, watching the woman seated in front of him. He was in dangerous waters here; he knew that opening up to her could lead to ramifications for their friendship. He wasn’t sure he could afford to lose both Emma and Henry in his life. However, not talking to her could also drastically change things anyway.

“I’m not a serial Killer, Swan, so you can stop planning your escape.” He sighed and sat down next to her. “However, I’m not proud of my past. My previous relationship was the definition of muddy waters at best.”

“I was married to a man who took me clubbing on our first date only to come back and rob it later that night. Trust me, I get muddy waters.”

Killian narrowed his eyes; this Neal character was dumber than he thought. “Perhaps you do.”

“We all do stupid shit; it doesn’t mean we are bad people.”

He took a deep breath, “I dated a woman while I was in the Navy. Milah. I was consumed with her the moment I laid eyes on her at the bar. She had the mouth of a sailor, the body of a goddess, and I swore she knew me more than I knew myself.” Emma squirmed in her seat beside him. “I fell in love with her the way most people do, feet first with my eyes closed. I gave her everything I had, my entire soul.”

“Is she the reason you moved to Boston?”

“Aye, though I wouldn’t call it a move, more of an escape. I intended to ask her to marry me. Liam didn’t approve, he felt she would not live up to my mother’s expectation for her son, he refused to give me his blessing, or my mother’s ring, but it didn’t deter me. She was my world.”

“So, you asked her anyway?”

He nodded. “It was the happiest day of my life, and sadly the day my entire world exploded around me.” He paused. “Milah was unable to accept my proposal, because she was already married.”

“Oh wow, that’s... I’m sorry.”

“I wish that was where the tale ended, however I’m ashamed to say that my part in the story continued.” He hung his head, taking his eyes off her. “As I said, she was my world, and I could not let her go. My brother always told me that a man unwilling to fight for what he wants, deserves what he gets.” He laughed. “I never stopped to question if what I was fighting for was worthy of my time and effort.”

“You wanted her to leave her husband?”

“Aye, she told me she was going to leave him, he was abusive, and things escalated. Many nights I spent cleaning her up, tending to her wounds, begging her not to go back to him. She always told me it was the last time, I would send her home to pack her things and return to me. But she never did.” He laughed. “I was a fool. I should have ended it, walked away. But the last night was worse than anything he had ever done. He had broken her arm, threatened to kill her. It was the last straw. I went after him, gave him an ass beating he won’t soon forget.”

Emma gasped beside him. “It sounds like he deserved it.”

He chuckled. “I got arrested for assault and battery. Turns out her husband was an up-and-coming politician.”

“But what about his wife, surely there was evidence to prove she was being battered?”

“It was her word against mine.” He said sadly.

“What? She lied?”

“She told the police I was a jealous ex-lover, and that she had begged me to leave her alone. I went to jail for a time and when I was released, I had been dishonorably discharged from the Navy. Everything I had built and dreamed of since I was a child was gone.”

“Killian that’s terrible. But that hardly sounds like you were the bad guy.”

He sat up in his chair, “Perhaps not, but I knew I brought this on myself. I allowed Milah to continue to cheat on her husband, I should have stopped it. I should have walked away. I deserved the punishment I got.”

“And I made you do it again when I kissed you while I was dating Graham.” She said sadly.

“I couldn’t allow anything to progress with us, no matter how much I wished it.”

“You wished for it?”

“Aye, but after Milah, I got shit faced and made a promise to my brother that I would never have a relationship with a woman again.”

“But you were just dating Belle.”

“Belle and I were merely existing. I never called her my girlfriend, a fact that I believe hurt her more than I could comprehend. Belle is a good woman and someone I consider a cherished friend. She deserved better than me.”

“So, you’re just going to keep running from feeling anything because of a drunken promise after making a mistake?”

“Can I ask you something, Emma?”

“Interesting, asking a question to avoid answering one.”

Killian pushed forward. “Why did you turn down Graham’s proposal?”

She frowned. “Guess I didn’t feel like getting married again, seemed like a lot of work.”

“I just told you the thing I am most fearful of people learning about me and you return the favor by being less than honest in your answer.”

“What do you want me to say?”

“Try the truth. Why does your boy think you are running?”

“Why does Henry think anything? He has an active imagination.” Killian rolled his eyes. “Ok fine, you want the truth? Graham was a good guy, he treated me well, he was good to Henry. I could have married him and let him take care of me for the rest of our lives.”

“And you think that’s a bad thing?”

“Of course not, but he didn’t make me feel anything. I loved him but I wasn’t in love with him. I just wanted to feel alive, desired, wanted.”

“So, you kissed me?”

“You make it sound like I was using you. I wasn’t. I kissed you because I wanted to. Because you scare me. You make me feel things I’ve never felt before.”

“Scaring a woman hardly sounds like a good thing.” He laughed.

“When I was younger, I was a different person. I wanted adventure, excitement. I was the type of person who wanted to get up at 3am, take a boat out into the middle of the ocean, and watch the sun come up. I took trips without even knowing where I was going. I was 18 years old when I met Neal, we ran hard and fast and we almost destroyed each other. We were married and divorced before I even knew who he was. By the time I figured it out, Henry came. And then I had responsibilities and someone else depending on me.”

Killian watched her face, imagining what Emma must have been like back then. She would have been the type of woman he would have fallen for in a heartbeat. Perhaps if they had met back then, neither of them would have gone through what they did.

“I started playing things safe. My ex, Walsh, was a banker, you couldn’t get more boring than him if you tried. And then there was Graham, I’ve known him since I was a child, he was a friend, a security guard who took care of old people.” She laughed.

“And then one day, this man in a leather jacket rode up on his bike, I could practically smell danger and adventure and excitement from the moment I met you.” Her eyes never left his as she spoke. “And I was ok just fantasizing about it because I don’t date men like you. But then you went and did the most aggravating thing anyone could have ever done.”

He couldn’t stop the smirk. “What’s that, love?”

“This man who was supposed to be dangerous and terrifying became friends with my eleven-year-old son.”

“He’s friends with Will too, love, I fail to see how that’s aggravating.”

“Will doesn’t count. He’s been my best friend since before I even realized what boys were. But you…you became friends with Henry because you wanted to. And it was aggravating because you did it without even trying to get into my pants. You just hung out with him. Despite my protests, my distrust, even though you had no reason at all to even pay him the time of day, you talked to him like he was a human who deserved an audience.”

“Perhaps I’m missing the point.” He said with a chuckle.

“Dangerous men don’t become friends with my son. They don’t listen to him when he’s having a bad day. They don’t show up at his literacy fair to watch him recite a poem that he wrote about him and his mother.”

“Why Swan, are you saying that you are the Princess, and I am the Pirate from Henry’s tale?” He teased with a grin.

“Stop it, you already knew as much.”

“I had my suspicions, yes.”

“That’s my point, even after all that, you still hung around. You babysat him, I mean you almost set my house on fire doing so, but, even after Henry faked being sick just so I would end my date early with Graham, you still stayed.” She shook her head. “You let him come to your house to play with your dog every night before he went to bed, you eat my food, and you never complain that it’s burned…” She closed her eyes, words almost coming out in a whisper, “and sometimes I catch you looking at me and it takes my breath away.”

Without even thinking, he reached out, his thumb tracing a line against her cheek. “Sometimes, when I look at you, I swear my heart is going to pound out of my chest and everything around me ceases to exist. Because all I see is you.”

Her eyes opened, locking with his, and in a single heartbeat, she was in his arms, her lips crashing against his mouth, and the world stopped.

#skyline manor #stacy's fics #killian jones #emma swan #captain swan fics #captain swan au #captain swan modern au #captain swan

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tsuki-chibi · 4 years

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Harry Potter Valentine’s Fic: The Rules

Read it on AO3!

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"Harry? What are you doing still awake?"

"Waiting for Charlie."

The room brightened briefly before Ginny extinguished the tip of her wand with a flick. "It's almost 3am. Charlie owled last night to say it might be after sunrise before he touched down..."

"I know," Harry said, not moving. He was curled up on the window seat in the living room of the Burrow. The fire was banked, providing just enough light for him to be able to see Ginny's thoughtful expression. He watched her out of the corner of his eye, wondering if she would put up an argument the way that Hermione had. She hadn't wanted to leave Harry down here alone, and it had finally taken Ron practically dragging her out of the room before Hermione gave up and went up to bed. That had been about two hours ago, by Harry's best guess.

"Okay," Ginny said finally. "But here." She padded across the room to a chest and opened it, pulling out a thick blanket that had doubtlessly been knitted by Mrs Weasley. It was a riot of colours, blues and purples and greens fading into yellows and oranges, but blessedly warm when she walked over and settled it around his shoulders. Harry snuggled into the blanket gratefully, not even having realized how cold he was until that moment.

"Thanks," Harry said with a small smile.

Ginny smiled back. "Good night, Harry."

"Good night." He watched her go before he turned back to the window. It wasn't snowing tonight, but the clouds were thick and heavy with the promise of an on-coming storm. Wizards were fortunate, Harry reflected, in that at least two of their ways of transportation were unaffected by snow. Travelling by Floo didn't even require stepping outside. But Charlie had said that he was coming as far as the next town by train, and then he was planning to fly the rest of the way by broom. Mrs Weasley had spent a good deal of time tutting under her breath about boys and their brooms.

But Harry could understand where Charlie was coming from. He knew from the letters that Charlie wrote that the reserve was extremely busy lately, so Charlie didn't have much of an opportunity for flying. There was nothing like a good flight to clear your head, so it made perfect sense that's how Charlie would want to start off his vacation... to Harry, anyway. Which he figured was part of the reason why he was the only one waiting up.

Then there was the other part.

His stomach twisted uncomfortably, and he pulled his knees up against his chest, draping the blanket over his cold feet. Upstairs, there was a spot for him on Ginny's floor - or so he suspected, considering that Ron and Hermione had gone upstairs after Mrs Weasley had gone to bed. But there was also another spot for him several miles away: in Draco's bed. And while Harry had been very happily claiming the latter every night for about five months now, he needed to talk to Charlie desperately before he could do so another night.

Luckily, Christmas was a convenient excuse. Draco was spending the night with his parents, but he had agreed to come to the Burrow tomorrow morning. Harry fully expected that Draco would be here no later than seven, because both Draco and Lucius usually woke up around six, and an hour was more than enough time for Lucius to be his usual self and piss Draco off to the point where Draco would leave rather than say something that would upset Narcissa. That meant Harry had - he checked his watch and sighed - about four hours to talk to Charlie first.

He rested his head against the cold glass for a moment, then straightened. Had that been a flicker of colour off in the distance? He strained his eyes, holding perfectly still, before biting back a whoop. That was definitely someone on a broom, and there would only be one person heading for the Burrow at this time of night. Harry jumped up, bringing the blanket with him as he dashed over to the door. He stopped just long enough to jam his feet into an old pair of trainers before he threw the door open and rushed outside.

Charlie was just touching down, though had Harry not known it was him he wouldn’t have recognized Charlie at all considering how heavily he was dressed. His dark blue cloak was pulled up around his face and he was wearing a hat pulled low over his forehead and ears. But that couldn't disguise the huge smile that appeared when he saw Harry, and he lifted his gloved hand in greeting.

"Hey Harry! Happy Christmas!"

"Happy Christmas," Harry said, crossing the snow towards him.

"You didn't have to wait up for me," said Charlie, tucking his broom beneath his arm.

“It was no big deal,” Harry said with a shrug. He shivered. The blanket really wasn’t enough to ward off the chill.

“Let’s get inside,” Charlie said, motioning to the door, and Harry eagerly complied. The Burrow felt wonderfully warm after just a minute outside, and he couldn’t imagine how Charlie was feeling. He stood aside and watched as Charlie shed his outerwear, hanging it all up on the pegs.

“What happened?” Harry asked, noticing a bandage Charlie’s right forearm.

“New dragon at the reserve. Bit prickly, but she’s coming around,” Charlie said. “Mum’ll sit me down to one of her lectures about finding a safer job, I’m sure.” He grinned, not looking bothered by the thought, and gave his head a toss. He’d grown his hair out, Harry realized; it wasn’t as long as Bill’s by any means, but it was long enough to be tied into a tiny ponytail at the nape of his neck. Something else Mrs Weasley wouldn’t be pleased about, no doubt.

“So, your work is going well?” Harry said politely.

“Harry, forgive me, but I don’t think you waited up until 3am to ask me about my work. I’m very tired, so if we could skip to whatever is bothering you that you don’t want anyone else to overhear?” Charlie’s voice was very kind, but Harry still flushed.

“I – sorry. It can wait –” Harry turned to go upstairs, inwardly berating himself, but Charlie’s hand caught his shoulder before he could take more than a few steps.

“Hey now, that’s not what I meant. I’m happy to talk to you anytime.” He chuckled. “Besides, if we wait, who knows how long it’ll be before we have a moment to ourselves? The house is stuffed to bursting right now.”

He had a point. The Burrow was big, but right now it was already stuffed with Bill, Fleur, Fred, George, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna, Harry, Charlie, and Mr and Mrs Weasley. Later this morning, Percy, Draco, Sirius, Remus, Angelina Johnson and Katie Bell were slated to show up – and there was no telling who else might wander in. Mr and Mrs Weasley prided themselves on the Burrow being a welcome space to any friends who needed it this time of year.

“If you’re sure,” Harry said, still ready to rush upstairs at the slightest suggestion that Charlie was too tired for this.

“I’m perfectly sure. Come here.” Hand still on Harry’s shoulder, Charlie towed him over to the kitchen table and made him sit. Then he started poking around the kitchen. Harry watched, not sure what Charlie was looking for, until Charlie opened a pot on the stove and made a sound of satisfaction. He grabbed two mugs and filled them, then brought one over to Harry.

“Hot chocolate?” Harry said, blinking. He’d expected tea.

“Good ol’ Mum. She knows I love a cup after I travel.” Charlie sat and looked at him expectantly. “Well?”

But now that the time to talk had come, Harry found himself tongue-tied. He fidgeted, lowering his gaze to the table as he wondered how best to explain. Charlie waited, watching him patiently, which just made Harry feel guilty. He was positive that Charlie was thinking longingly of his bed upstairs, and here Harry was keeping him up longer… Finally, he forced himself to say it.

“I think I broke the asexual rules!”

… That wasn’t how he wanted to say it.

Charlie snorted with laughter, then covered his mouth and cleared his throat. “Err, what’s that now?”

“I… um…” Harry mumbled, so embarrassed the tips of his ears were burning.

“Harry, my lad, you know there are no rules that you can really break,” Charlie said gently. “We’ve talked about this; there are no asexual Aurors who are going to break the door down. Just tell me what happened.”

Right. Harry could do that. He stared harder at the table and said, “I think… I mean, I’ve been dating Draco and it’s going well… really well. I-I love him.” He suspected that wasn’t surprising news to Charlie. It certainly hadn’t been to anyone else. Even Ron had greeted that pronouncement with a weary resignation, like it was something he had long ago got used to.

“That’s good. I’m happy for you,” Charlie said sincerely, as Harry had known he would: he’d already told Charlie as much in his letters. Charlie and the twins had been the most accepting by far.

“But lately I… I realized…” Harry clenched his hands into fists. “I think I’m attracted to him.” He blurted out the second bit and hunched his shoulders.

Charlie was quiet for a moment, then he said, “You mean sexually?”

Still not daring to look, Harry nodded miserably. He couldn’t even quantify how long he’d been feeling this way, but he thought it might have been a month or two: it had hit him suddenly last week, when Draco got out of bed naked and stopped to stretch right in the middle of a patch of sunlight. The golden light had lit up the panes of his body, making him look like a god, and Harry had felt a surge of lust so strong it nearly knocked him off his feet.

It had freaked him out big time. Harry had never felt anything like that before. It was the first time in his life he could honestly say he wanted to have sex with someone. He wanted to have sex with Draco. He was sexually attracted to Draco! And had been for some time, though he hadn’t realized that what he was feeling was sexual attraction until that stretch.

Now he didn’t know what to do. Back in his seventh year, when Charlie had pulled him aside for a chat right before Bill’s and Fleur’s wedding, the whole world had opened up. Suddenly, Harry had a label for himself that made sense and explained why he wasn’t sexually attracted to anyone. Romantically, well. That was a whole different story, as in the months following the war, he’d fallen head over heels for Draco.

Sex had never been a big deal for them. Harry still liked sex; it made him feel good and he liked making Draco feel good too. They did it once or twice a week, depending on their busy and varying schedules. But he had never wanted it before with a specific person. He’d never wanted to pin Draco down and do things to him. It was honestly a little scary to suddenly feel this way.

“And that’s bad,” Charlie prompted when the silence had stretched without either of them speaking.

“Well, yeah! I’m asexual! I’m not supposed to feel this way!” Harry said shrilly.

Charlie snorted again. “Oh, Harry. There are no rules about this sort of thing.”

“But you said –”

“I know. I know what I said,” Charlie said. He shifted, and finally Harry looked up at him. Charlie was smiling as he added, “Sexuality can be fluid. Some people go their whole lives relatively set in their ways, but others can change. It happens.”

Harry chewed his lower lip, mulling that over. He supposed it made sense, but… “But… then I can’t be asexual, right?”

“Well, technically no,” Charlie admitted. “You can keep using that label if you want to, but honestly it sounds more like you might demisexual.”

“Demisexual,” Harry repeated.

“Yeah. I have a friend like that. They don’t feel sexual attraction unless they form a strong emotional connection with someone. For them, that’s not limited to romantic relationships. They’ve been attracted to friends before too. But for you, it could be more limited because there’s so few people that you really trust.” Charlie lifted his mug and sipped at it, watching Harry with shrewd eyes.

He had a point. Harry’s circle of friends hadn’t widened much in the years since the war. It didn’t help that in the end, he had foregone Auror training and decided to take up the mantle of the Defence Against the Dark Arts professor. So, he saw the same people – his fellow professors – on a regular basis, and you weren’t really allowed to be friends with students, so his scope was limited.

Draco was really the first person Harry had ever seriously dated. There had been Cho, but that hadn’t ever gone anywhere. He’d dated Ginny briefly post-war, but both had been too damaged to really make a go of it, and now Ginny was happily dating Luna. There had been a couple of other women after Ginny, but no one that really made Harry feel anything close to what Draco did. Enemies or not, he could never deny that Draco had always inspired feelings of passion.

And he did trust Draco. More than he had ever trusted anyone except for Ron, Hermione and Sirius, to be honest. Enough so that Harry had started to talk about what had happened during the war, including things that he had never told anyone. He drummed his fingers on the table, thinking about the way Draco would hold his hands during those moments, and the way that Draco always seemed to know exactly when Harry needed a hug or when he didn’t want to be touched at all – often before Harry himself even realized.

“I love him,” Harry said again in a tiny voice. “I love him a lot. So that’s why…?”

“It’s my best guess. Harry, listen.” Charlie leaned forward. “I wouldn’t let this freak you out too much, okay? You and Draco have a really good thing going on. I can see how happy you make each other. As long as he keeps making you happy, that’s what you should be focusing on.”

“Right.” Harry took a deep breath, feeling the knot in his chest loosen some. “Do you think I was always demisexual and didn’t know it, or was I asexual and changed?”

Charlie shrugged. “I’m not sure, sorry. You’ll have to figure that one out on your own.”

That made sense. Harry leaned back in his chair and finally took a sip of his lukewarm chocolate. Demisexual. There was a name for it, for what he was feeling, and that was more of a relief than he really wanted to admit. Because if there was a name for it, he wasn’t the only person that this had happened to. He wasn’t a failure as an asexual: he was demisexual. He liked that.

“It was scary,” he said at last. “Feeling that way suddenly. I didn’t expect it.”

“Yeah, I can’t imagine.” Charlie made a face and stood up. “Just… take it slow, maybe? I hear that kind of thing can be overwhelming at first. Did you talk to Draco about it at all?”

“No. I wanted to get things clear in my own head before I told him. Knowing Draco, he’s going to take it as a huge compliment that he was the one to awaken my sexual desire.” Harry sighed and rolled his eyes as Charlie sniggered.

“Probably,” Charlie said, amused as he took his cup over to the sink. “Are you okay now?”

“I’m fine. Thanks, Charlie,” Harry said. He was surprised when Charlie came over and hugged him, but quickly sank into the hug.

“No problem, little bro,” Charlie said, ruffling Harry’s hair. Harry yelped and swatted at him, and Charlie laughed again and disappeared upstairs.

Rather than follow, Harry rinsed out his cup and went back to the couch. He curled up, feeling better now that he had spoken to Charlie. Now that he had a word for it, he’d be able to talk to Draco. And to Hermione: as soon as she heard about this, she’d be tripping over herself to do research. Harry would shortly know more about being demisexual than he’d ever wanted to know.

He didn’t mean to fall asleep but did. He only woke up when someone began to gently shake his shoulder; he opened his eyes and found himself looking into Draco’s beautiful grey eyes. Harry blinked, realizing that he could hear Ron, Luna, and Sirius laughing. A smile crept across Harry’s face and he leaned forward, wrapping his arms around Draco’s shoulders.

“Hello to you too,” Draco said, laughing.

“Mm, what time is it?” Harry asked, rubbing his nose against Draco’s neck. Much as he might tease Draco about the expense, he loved the smell of Draco’s cologne.

“Just after 6:30am,” Draco replied. “My father woke up early.”

“I’m sorry,” Harry said with an inward grimace.

“I’m not. It gave me an excuse to leave.” Draco was smirking, Harry knew. He pulled back to look and – yup. The smirk made Harry’s heart flutter, and it also made certain other parts of him interested. That was new. He’d have to get used to that.

“Can we talk tonight?” Harry whispered.

Draco’s eyebrows furrowed. “Talk? In a bad way?”

“No! In a very, very good way,” Harry said, smiling in that way that he knew Draco thought was sexy.

“Colour me intrigued,” Draco said, and was just leaning in for a kiss when -

“Harry!” Sirius yelled, descending on them. “Happy Christmas, you two!”

“Happy Christmas!” Harry said, laughing as Draco squeaked indignantly when Ginny, Hermione, and Luna all piled in on the hug. Draco was trying hard to look annoyed, but even Draco couldn’t stop himself from smiling when Ginny and Luna kissed his cheeks at the same time.

“Better now?” Ginny asked him when Draco managed to squirm free. Sirius chased after him, threatening to change into his dog form and lick Draco’s face all over. Hermione and Luna collapsed into giggles, and even Remus, standing in the doorway, started to laugh.

Harry smiled. “Much better.”

#harry potter #charlie weasley #draco malfoy #demisexual #drarry #demisexual harry potter #asexual charlie weasley

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madamebaggio · 4 years

Photo

Arthur was feeling pretty bad right about now.

Catia’s birthday was in a week and he’d known exactly what she wanted -had wanted for the longest time -and he still didn’t give it to her.

He loved his cousin, but he had limits, and a Taylor Swift concert was it.

However, as he remembered that that night was the night she’d be in town with her new tour, he thought about Catia and how she’d have been happy to go and felt wretched.

He was a terrible cousin.

Arthur decided that he’d take Catia to the next Taylor Swift concert available; even if it was in another city. It wasn’t like he couldn’t afford it and Catia deserved it. His uncle had been so horrible to her, forbidding her from doing anything without his supervision, not letting her have any friends… The least Arthur could do was have fun with her.

“So.. I was wondering, would you like to go see Taylor Swift with me?” He asked her during dinner the next day.

“Oh.” She was clearly surprised by the offer. “That’s sweet of you, Artie, but I went to that one yesterday.”

“What? With whom?”

“Alone.” She shrugged. “I mean, I didn’t want to keep waiting for someone to go with me and keep missing out, so I went alone.”

Well, now he felt like the worst asshole in the world.

“But I’ve made a friend.” She told him excitedly.

“Really?” That was good.

“Yes! Her name is Sansa.” Catia’s whole face lit up. “She was also alone there.”

“Well, I’m sorry it took me this long to offer, love, but I’m glad you had fun.” He told her honestly.

Catia played nervously with her fork. “Sansa told me her siblings always made fun of her for liking Taylor, but she’d decided she was a grown up and could like whatever she wanted. She told me she was tired of justifying her likes and dislikes to people.” Catia bit her lower lip. “I want to be like her.”

“Hey.” Arthur chucked her gently under the chin. “You’re pretty awesome yourself. You went to the concert alone, made a friend…”

She giggled. “Thanks, Arthur.”

And he thought that was it about this Sansa person, but it wasn’t.

The next day, he saw Catia getting her bag from her table.

“I’m having lunch with Sansa.” She told him, a huge smile on her face. “I’ll be back in time for the meeting.” And she was gone.

Two days later, he asked if she wanted to go have a beer with the lads after work.

“Sorry, I can’t. I’m meeting Sansa. We’re getting mani-pedis.”

“Catia looks so happy.” Wet Stick commented.

“That’s good.” Back Lack agreed. “The lass needed a friend.”

Fine, she might, but… What was up with this Sansa? Catia wouldn’t stop talking about her and they were always together and…

“Stop being jealous.” Bedivere gave him a look. “Let your cousin have fun.”

“I’m not jealous!” Arthur protested.

Fine, he was. He was supposed to be Catia’s hero.

Who was this Sansa?

Apparently, he’d find out on Catia’s birthday, because she’d been invited.

Great.

“Arthur! Come meet Sansa.” Catia called from the living room.

He could do this. He could be mature.

When he entered the room and finally got his first look at Sansa, his jaw hit the floor.

“Holy fuck, I think I’m in love.”

Yes, he did say that part out loud.

#madame baggio #crackship #snippet #CrossOver #Crossover Pairings #gifs not mine #modern au #game of thrones #king arthur legend of the sword #Sansa Stark #Arthur Pendragon #princess catia

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brbaabs · 5 years

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The Dornish Bird - Chapter 4

Hey guys! I’m so sorry I missed the last update. I’ve been soooo busy these two weeks, I barely had time to touch my phone. College is killing me mercilessly. I’m sorry I couldn't answer your comments but I assure you, I read all of them and loved your kind words. Thank you so much for being here, it means a lot to me to have such amazing people enjoying my work.

Before you read this chapter, I have some things to say. We had Bran’s fall in the last part, so I’m sure you know we’ll have dark themes from now on. That leads to a question I’ve been dying to ask: Do you guys mind a little smut here and there? I mean, I guess we all know GOT. I’m quite used to so see naked bodies by now, but I know some people might not like it. Though my sex scenes are always delicate, respectful and important to the plot, I’d like to know if you’re okay with it. Please, share your opinion on the comments of this chapter.

Anyway, the song I chose today kinda matches the first season’s mood in my opinion. I hope you like it just as much as I do, this song is simply magical.

Word count: 2.445

Eddard Stark waited for his eldest son in his private study.

He had his wife’s triumphant smile still fresh in his head, reminding him of the decision they both agreed to make. He was somewhat happy with their agreement, choosing his first born's wife was something he'd always considered a difficult task. His own wedding wasn't appealing to him at the beginning. Ned was happy to choose a girl that he and his wife could trust their son and their house.

(Y/n) surely wasn't the first option. She did not belong to a house, would not inherit any properties or soldiers. She was not even born in the north, his general would be mortified with the idea of having a Dornish woman ahead of House Stark. Ned esteemed the girl, he truly did. But he needed to weigh all these details before making a big decision like that. He could marry (Y/n) and Jon without hesitating, but Robb's future bride was a totally different case.

However Catelyn was skilled in argumentation, and her point was too solid to hold any defect.

'I was an outsider as well, do you have any regrets about how it ended up for us?' She stated.

Eddard could not deny his wife's cleverness. Her argument put an end in the discussion. It was settled, Robb would wed her protegé.

The Warden was still lost in his thoughts when Robb entered the study with Theon by his side. The two lads were sparring for the previous hour, sweat was still present in Robb's forehead. Theon has mud is his pants, indicating his loss. He was a good fighter, but Robb was just excellent in the sword art.

"Do you wish to speak to me, father?" Robb said.

Ned examined his son's expression for a second. Both boys seemed to be in a good mood. Theon still had a little smile on his lips because of a pun Robb had made in their way to Ned's study, and Robb looked relaxed. In his mind, Ned wondered how long that good mood would last.

"It's a serious matter, so I suggest you take a seat." He said.

Robb's face immediately showed his concern. He shared a look with his friend. Theon looked puzzled but nodded almost imperceptibly to indicate his curiosity. Out of choice, Robb took a seat in front of his father, and the Greyjoy stood behind him as always.

"What is it, father?" The Young Wolf asked.

Satisfied with his son's compliance, Ned took a deep breath. 'This won't be so hard.' He thought. Robb was a good kid, he never disobeyed his father. If it were Arya in Robb's shoes, Lord Stark would have a huge problem in his hands.

"Your mother and I have been discussing a really important matter since your eleventh name day, but only recently we've found a solution." Eddard spoke with determination in his tone. "Catelyn suggested a bride to you, and I accepted. You're going to marry (Y/n)."

Robb's eyes widened with Ned's statement.

The young man searched for a sign of humor in his father's words since that information seemed too good to be true. His whole life was filled with worry about his future wife. He knew it would be his parent's duty to choose a bride for him, and yet he feared for their choice. The chances of Eddard ending up choosing an attractive woman was minimal, considering Catelyn's looks. Robb loved his mother with all his heart, but he couldn't say she was the prettiest woman he'd seen in his life. The possibility of ending up with an unattractive woman by his side for the rest of his life wasn't appealing in any circumstance. He was aware of the stupidity of his concern, but he feared it anyway.

But (Y/n) was gorgeous, he couldn't be more fortunate!

"I am not quite sure if I get it, father." Robb said, still not believing in what his ears had heard. "I am not complaining, but (Y/n) is my friend. And she is not a noblewoman, is it truly the best match?"

While Robb felt his heart beating fast in his chest because of his excitement, Theon's heartbeat was increased for a very different reason. The Greyjoy lad could not believe in what Ned had said.

In Theon's mind, Eddard would never consider marrying his firstborn with the Dornish girl. How could he? She was a commoner, for The Drowned God's sake. She was Catelyn's protegé as Theon was Ned's. If anyone should take (Y/n) as his wife, it should be Theon.

That was the Greyjoy's theory, at least.

"Catelyn has been shaping her into a proper Lady for over a year, she will be a fine suitor when the wedding time comes. Until then, she will come to King's Landing with me and your sisters." Eddard answered.

"How long will (Y/n) be away from Winterfell?" Robb asked.

'How long will (Y/n) be away from me?' He wondered.

"Only three years, I believe." Ned said. "She will be Sansa's handmaiden until she comes to age to marry. You will be in charge of Winterfell with your mother while (Y/n) is away. I believe you understand what is going to happen once she returns."

'He will be able to bed her.' Theon thought.

Robb took a deep breath, trying to process all that information. He would be married in three years, with a girl he had always seen as a dear friend. It was difficult to believe in his fate. They would be separated in the meantime. How would (Y/n) look when she comes back? Would their friendship still be the same?

When Robb pictured (Y/n)'s smiling face, he felt his heart calming down. He fancied her, that was a fact. No matter what his mind would say, his heart desired her. He wanted to hold her in his arms, to touch her warm skin, to see her pleasured face as he claimed her body. At that point, the lad could not think about any other thing.

He wanted her.

"I accept, father." He said, raising his head to look into his father's eyes. "I will marry her."

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

(Y/n) was not sure about what she should feel.

Catelyn never forbade her from walking in Godswood. The girl loved to spend a little time by herself, with her only company being the small creatures that lived in the forest. She would always dive her hand in the lake, gather small stones to throw at Theon's back when he wasn't looking or just sit by the trees to observe the birds in their nests. That was her favorite time of the day.

But today, her lady asked her to stay in their house for the day. (Y/n) was confused at the beginning, but Catelyn said she had some matters to discuss with the Dornish girl. (Y/n) was not in place to object. Such request led to the current situation.

Lady Catelyn was leading (Y/n) towards the maester study. The girl had no idea why her lady would want to take her there, but she followed the woman without saying a word. Perhaps Maester Luwin had something to discuss with her, she would find out soon.

"Is everything alright, My Lady?" The girl asked.

Catelyn smiled. She was eager to tell the news to her dear protegé. The Lady of Winterfell was aware of how curious (Y/n) could be when someone was preparing a surprise for her. Right now, the girl's frow was evident. Catelyn was having so much fun.

"Be patient, girl." She answered. "You'll know soon enough. Now be careful with the steps."

(Y/n) pouted, but decided to keep her curiosity to herself. At least for the time being.

"Yes, My Lady." The girl said.

Catelyn could feel the confusion in (Y/n)'s voice. She smirked, enjoying the moment far more than she should. The pair walked for three minutes more, then arrived at their destination. The woman knocked on the door twice, attempting to conceal her excitement. She felt (Y/n) standing behind her. The girl still had that pout on her reddish lips, too curious to hide it. Catelyn chuckled, amused by the girl's mood.

After a few seconds, the door was opened by the faithfull maester of Winterfell. That made (Y/n) smile a little, forgetting her worries for a moment. She absolutely loved the old man.

"Do you have my order, maester?" Catelyn asked.

The old man smiled at his lady with respect and amusement.

"I have, my Lady." He said. "Do you want me to bring it here?"

"If you would be so kind, yes." The woman said.

(Y/n)'s eyes flashed with curiosity. She bit her lip while the maester disappeared into his study, leaving the girl in the company of her lady. She looked at Catelyn, the woman smiled warmly at her.

"How much do you know of birds?" Catelyn asked.

Her question puzzled the girl even more. She blinked once, confused by the sudden change of subject.

"Not a lot, I fear." She said honestly.

Catelyn chuckled.

"And they call you 'The Dornish Bird', aren't you supposed to know about your kind?" She said.

(Y/n) pouted again, making the older woman laugh wholeheartedly. She reached out to the girl's head and caressed her soft hair as she would do to her youngest sons, but stopped after a short moment. That girl would be her daughter in law soon, Catelyn shouldn't treat her like a child anymore. The woman sighed happily. She would have to find another way of showing her affection towards her sweet bard.

At that moment, the maester returned to where the two women waited. (Y/n) noticed a big steel cage in his hand.

"Here, My Lady." The maester said.

He held the cage a little higher, revealing a beautiful creature resting peacefully on the inside. (Y/n) gasped, amazed by the regal-looking animal.

"Is this an eagle, maester?" She asked.

The old man chuckled at her mistake, while Lady Catelyn sighed. That girl wasn't lying when she said she knew nothing about birds.

"It's a Snowy Owl, my dear." Luwin said.

"Oh."

(Y/n) blushed under the wise man's gaze. She never had much knowledge about flying creatures. The girl knew how to cook them, though. That experience she acquired from her days on the road. Sometimes, her father couldn't find an inn, and they had to sleep somewhere in the forest. The dinner would be a delicious animal her father hunted with his old bow. She missed those days.

"A Snowy Owl, then." The girl mumbled. "She is gorgeous."

"It's a male owl, (Y/n)." Luwin corrected, earning himself a light snort from the girl. "It was trained as a crow to deliver messages. The only difference, though, is the hunting talents these creatures have, and it's intelligence. They can follow orders and obey their master."

"So it is like an eagle." (Y/n) whispered to herself, being heard only by her lady.

Catelyn sighed and shook her head. 'This girl can be impossible sometimes.' She thought.

"You can let It hunt twice a day." Luwin said. "Speak to It regularly so It can be familiar with your voice. Don't try to pet it. This one is quite short-tempered."

"Sounds like it's a match then." Catelyn said, smiling to the man. "Thank you, maester. They will be very happy together."

She took the cage from Luwin's hand with a little difficulty, since the weight of the object was more than she anticipated. Without hesitation, the woman shoved the bird and its cage into (Y/n)'s arms. The girl gasped, surprised by the sudden motion.

"Congratulations, girl. You have an owl." The lady stated.

The girl blinked, shocked. She examined the bird in her hands carefully, only to realize she was being watched by its huge yellow eyes. Its gaze was heavy like it could see her soul. The girl shivered under that gaze.

"I'm honored, Lady Stark." She panted. "But I don't think I need an owl. Who would I send a message to?"

Catelyn remained silent for a moment. She looked deep into the girl's eyes. That shiny (E/c) eyes reminded her of the day she met the girl. She remembered how much the girl had grown under her protection. (y/n) evolved her skills and learned new things while living with the Stark family. She had changed so much since then. From that humble young girl to a fearless woman. That's what she has become: A true woman. At that moment, Catelyn knew she had made the right choice.

Without a warning, the Lady of Winterfell took the cage from (Y/n)'s hands and put it aside. Confused, the girl frowned but had no time to think about it. Catelyn opened her slender arms and locked her protegé in a warm embrace. (Y/n) gasped, surprised for the sudden display of affection.

The girl was used to hug the Stark children all the time, especially the younger ones. She even considered hugging Theon, but only when she had too much wine in her blood. But never the Lords of Winterfell. She was taught to respect them, to admire them as her leaders. As much as she loved them, she knew physical contact could be considered a tremendous disrespect. That was a delicate line she could not cross.

And yet, in the comfort of her lady's embrace, she felt safe.

"I need you to be strong, girl." Catelyn softly spoke. "I will trust you with the things I love more in this world. I need you to take care of my girls and to watch over my husband. Care for them as they were part of your family since you're already part of ours. I'll not send away only two, but three daughters."

The world seemed to crumble under (Y/n)'s feet. As much as she wanted to conceal her uneasiness, her worry was too strong to hide. She understood her Lady's words far too well. That wasn't a strict order, but a genuine plea. A heartfelt farewell from a mother's core.

With those heavy words and a duty recently put upon her shoulders, (Y/n) knew she wasn't a girl anymore. She was now responsible for her Lady's family. She needed to be stronger, wiser. It was time to put her childish heart at bay and cast her fears aside to reborn into something new. She wasn't the Dornish Bird anymore.

She was a woman.

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

That’s it for today, thanks for reading! Reblog to help me, leave a comment if you liked this chapter.

Tag List: @evilunicorns4minions, @black-widow-fangirl, @aristocracy-y, @aspiring-fangirls-world, @thedeacywaltz, @riddlersriddlet, @nialeesato, @peachyblinderss

I hope I’m not forgetting anyone. If you wish to be tagged as well, please tell me. Thank you all!

~ See ya!

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dopescotlandwarrior · 5 years

Text

A Hero Among Us-Chapter 3

On AO3

Ch-1 Ch-2

Chapter Three

Claire looked out the window at the growing number of men and felt a huge relief. With the harvest just six weeks away, she hoped to have ample men to pick the grapes quickly, as Jamie said, this was crucial. She feared the coalition would amp up the pressure before she could sell the grapes. She wondered how far they would go to grab this land.

Jamie walked through the vineyard each day and watched the grapes get smaller as they lost precious water to the drought. The leaves were crisp and brown indicating the weakened condition of the plant. If they were invaded by insects or fungus the plant had little resources to fight and would succumb.

Jamie headed back and saw men running toward him. He quickened his pace. The men were shouting about the lady being threatened by men on horses. Jamie started running, as fast as his legs would allow. He could see the house as the lactic acid was building in his thighs pushing the pain to nearly intolerable, he ran faster. When he came blasting into the house misses Crook was holding a towel to Claire’s face. Jamie’s knees almost buckled as he came around to her and saw the black eye.

“Who did this?” His unmasked face was fury on fire. “Tell me Claire, who? Which of these men is so cowardly to hit a woman?”

“I don’t know, honestly, I don’t know them by name. He said they would burn my fields before I could pick one grape.”

“It won’t happen or it would have already. There are assets in the ground and atop the ground and they arna stupid. They want the vines and the first year of growth completed. Don’t worry about the place burning down.”

Misses Crook moved away from Claire and she launched into Jamie’s arms sobbing. She didn’t mention the other threats. Raping her and misses Crook until dead, killing the workers and animals. She sobbed harder with the memory and Jamie knew she held back the reason for her tears. He had a good idea what cowardly men would say to women to scare them to death.

“Until yer grapes are sold I’ll be posting a man to ye day and night. He won’t be a pest but he’ll be able to warn us when danger is comin.” She wrapped her arms around his stomach and cried harder. He spoke in her ear and told her he would keep her safe.

That means I love you Sassenach, he thought, and I will lay down my life for you. I canna be in love and not move mountains to help and protect you.

“Ya have a fighter who has pledged his life to you Sassenach, please dinna cry lass, it’s breakin my heart.”

Claire heard it, hidden in his words, “I love you”, is what they said. She held onto to the bravest man she had ever known and he was in love with her. Could this be so, she wondered. She pulled away quickly and dried her eyes before she looked into his crystal blue gaze. His eyes said I love you, I desire you, and I will always see you this way.

“Are ye alright now Sassenach?”

Claire felt like she was moving in slow motion, “yes, I’m better now, they scared me.”

“I have to speak to the men and arrange a perimeter patrol and a guard for one pretty Sassenach. This afternoon I have to ride out to the outer forty and check the vines but you will have a man with ye all the time from now on.”

He smiled and turned to leave but she held onto his hands as the tears started to fall again. “Please take me with you.”

He pushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Brimstone grows fat in her stall mistress, perhaps ye should come with me. Be ready to ride in thirty minutes.”

Claire released his hands and Jamie vanished to carry out his task of updating the men. His ace in the hole was the group of Highlanders that had come to work. He would stake his life, or Claire’s, on the word of a Highlander and it was time to get them plugged in and offer a safe escape if they chose it. He knew in his bones they would stay and do what Highlanders do, stand the ground that’s been entrusted to them.

He rang the bell and the men assembled around him, there were now fifty men, ready to work. Yi Tien Cho took his seat with the men and looked defiantly at Jamie.

“There is a war over this property that rightfully belongs to misses Randell. The coalition of winegrowers is tryin to take it from her, steal it actually. They beat her today and she has a black eye and deep fear from the encounter. These men will be back and the closer we get to the harvest, the harder they will fight. She is innocent and alone. Without us, she stands no chance of keeping her harvest or her property. Men, I’m askin ye to fight for the lady. If ye refuse ye can leave peacefully and without incident. This I promise because I need to have complete faith in those who stay.

I am riding with the lady to the outer property to assess the crop. I’ll no be sendin able bodies out there if there’s nothin to pick. Stay alert and watch the house. We will sit down when I return and split the group into day and night watch until the harvest.

“Yer askin us to fight for someone we dinna ken and a British woman for Christ sake.”

“I ken. The conditions in Scotland have been tyrannical oppression and land grabbing for the last hundred years. I would wager each of you has known a family member who was swindled, forced, or lied to and lost land, or a home, or the life of someone they loved trying to defend it. This is yer opportunity to strike down the land thieves that are terrorizing this region. Do it for the ones you love, do it because it’s right, do it because a brother is askin ye. Highlander blood runs through us all. Will ye stand with me and fight?”

Angus and Rupert stood up and proudly claimed their allegiance to Jamie’s cause. Other men stood and said the same. One man stood and said, “for my sister and her wee ones, I’m stayin.” Other men stood.

“For my mother.”

“For my grandma, they took her property.”

“For my brother, killed defending his land and crops.”

Misses Crook felt goosebumps run down her arms and she shivered in the ninety-degree heat. She heard it all and was galvanized by Jamie’s words and leadership. On her way back to the house her stride gained six inches, her shoulders were back and her head was high. If there was a chance to save this farm she would play her part. There would be food and ale day and night. It was time to pick the vegetables and start cooking. The men who stay need more than porridge and dried pork.

Claire paced the hallway upstairs and thought about the revelation she felt in Jamie’s arms. Why hadn’t she seen it before? Because she was high born and such a union was not even considered. But he cared for her, that was obvious by his actions and unguarded words today. For some reason, it made her happy, as impossible as it was.

“Mistress! Are ye ready? Have ye decided to rest in the house today?”

“I am ready mister Fraser.”

Jamie watched her descend the stairs in her lace and ruffles, layers of fancy fabrics that would not stand up to a hard ride.

“Sassenach, I have to ride hard to reach the outer border of the property. Are ye sure I can’t talk ye into stayin here with misses Crook? I’ve talked to the men and they are here to guard ye and the property from those who mean ye harm.”

He looked at her pleadingly knowing this was no task for one so fragile.

“I am going with you and I’ll have you know I am quite a good rider. Do not leave without me. Misses Crook!”

It was five minutes before Claire emerged from the house and stood before Jamie. His eyes took in a complete metamorphosis and his mouth hung open. Gone were the layers, ruffles, and lace. Her riding boots came to her knees, her breeches were tight for maximum control and her hat covered her hair that was stuffed into it.

Jamie stood up and circled her. “My God mistress, ye look like a lad and that is perfect! Why didn’t I think of that? Ye brilliant is what ye are. Let’s go.”

Claire smiled at his exuberance and acceptance and followed close behind. Misses Crook folded the clothing she had shed and let her mind wander and wonder about mister James Fraser.

For once, Donus did not pitch his usual fit and agreed to run through the vineyard and take commands from the crazy rider with the fierce seat. Donus also had a crush on Brimstone and paced himself as she did. They rode for quite some time and reaching the outer acreage, Jamie inspected the vines and was pleasantly surprised. As he walked from vine to vine he felt electricity run up his arms and the hair stand up. He smelled the air and felt a jolt of adrenalin. He looked around quickly for shelter but found nothing.

“Sassenach, we must find shelter, right now. The sky is about to rip open.”

She urged Brimstone into a canter and Jamie barely got on Donus before he followed her. He saw lightning strike the ground just ahead of them and his concern went into warp drive. He kicked Donus to pass Brimstone and search the rock walls for a cave or an overhang. When he saw what might offer shelter the sky opened up with booming thunder and great flashes of lightning. Even with their peril, he thanked the almighty for the rain.

Jamie jumped off Donus and walked to the cave. He exhaled in relief and tied Donus to a tree so he could lead Brimstone and Claire into the cave. He came back expecting Donus to be long gone and scratched his head smiling.

“Yer a mate, after all, thank ye for stayin.”

Jamie led Donus into the cave and looked around to judge their space. It was mid-afternoon but the black clouds were closing in on what little sun was left. He looked at the blown-in detritus that littered the floor and found some wood left on an old fire. The horses were so happy to be out of the punishing rain they moved very little. Jaime took the flintstone from his saddlebag and felt relief that it was dry. Ten minutes later there was a fire burning and enough dry vegetation on the ground to last at least an hour.

“Sassenach, yer gonna shake yer teeth right out of yer head. Sit near the fire and warm up.”

Claire looked at him and then the ground like she didn’t understand. Jamie sat down and patted the ground next to him. She looked around for an alternative and finding none, she finally sat down. The fire warmed her and her shaking stopped. Fierce thunder with blinding lightning scared Claire and she dove toward Jamie almost knocking him over.

He looked at her white face and huge eyes and chuckled showing her there was nothing to fear. He guided her back to her sitting position but she scooted next to him, still looking very afraid. The next explosion in the sky and she was on Jamie’s lap gripping his shirt for dear life. It was so loud he couldn’t speak to her so he smiled and hugged her to him. The storm raged while Jamie was facing his inner storm at having Claire in his lap. He knew there was no danger. Finding this cave solved that problem, but the Sassenach did not know that, so he was tender and kind with her.

Jamie was sure the worst of the storm was over and figured five minutes and they could head back at a dead run. The boom and flash stole his vision and his hearing for a few seconds. Where ever he looked he saw a black spot that blocked everything. He was unlucky and had been looking at the cave entrance when it happened. He felt Claire around his neck and held her feeling so bad she was this scared. When he blinked a few times and opened his eyes her beautiful face was an inch from his. He could feel her breath on his face. He tried to speak and she pressed her lips against his.

Jamie’s heart pounded so hard he figured this was his last moment on earth and he was thrilled by it. Claire broke her kiss and she stared into his eyes, “kiss me please.”

Jamie pulled her to him and kissed her with all the emotion and energy he had pushed back over the last month. His head was screaming stop and his mouth wasn’t hearing it. He could hear the rain slowing outside but his spirit had taken flight with the feel of Claire's lips on his. He had to get her to safety while he could so he broke the kiss and pressed his forehead to hers. He breathed her in and opened his eyes.

“We have to go, as fast as ye can ride back to the house. I’ll stay behind ye so ride up to yer front door and throw me the reins. I’ll get her back and put her to bed. Right?”

He held her shoulders and she nodded. Jaime scooped her up and hugged her for dear life. He wanted desperately to remember what she felt like against him. As soon as she cleared the cave she mounted Brimstone and took off. Jamie was dragged for a while by Cassanova Donus who wanted to keep up with his girlfriend. Jamie felt the ground under his boots and pushed off as hard as he could landing him on top of the horse who kept up with Brimstone easily.

Claire did just what he said dismounting near the stairs leading to the porch. The thunder returned and the rain was again a down poor. Jamie smiled at her and motioned her toward the house. Claire walked to his side and put a hand on his leg. Jamie leaned down and kissed her with all of his heart then he pointed at the house and Claire ran in.

Jamie sat in the saddle and let Donus lead them to the barn. Fortunately, he looked up in time to see a fat branch in front of his face as Donus aimed to knock him out of the saddle. Something he had been trying to do for the last two days. Jamie pushed his upper body backward against the horse’s butt to avoid the tree truck then he let Donus know there would be consequences for such evil intent. Through it all, he smiled. He had kissed an angel and nothing else mattered.

With the horses safely in bed, Jamie walked through the drenching rain to his cabin. He wondered how many men were left and he prayed his gamble did not cripple this harvest.

Jamie pulled the door open when he heard knocking. Rupert was standing in the rain and announced there was no one watching the house and did Jamie want him to do it. Jamie laughed and pulled Rupert inside the cabin.

“Thank ye. I do want ye to take first watch and as soon as there’s a break in the rain I will run my blanket to ye to keep ye warm. Until we have to pick grapes, you and Angus will split the nights and sleep until noon. Okay?”

Rupert nodded and ran toward the house to find shelter on the porch.

Jamie sat on his bed and got lost in the events of the afternoon. Now that he was alone he could bring back the vivid images and physical memories of holding Claire in his arms. What the devil had precipitated this brief intimacy between them he didn’t know but she had asked him to kiss her and he did. He could feel his heart ramming in his chest at the memory of her body pressed against him, her injured face, her arms around him, her fear. He shook his head and wanted to slap himself or beat himself senseless. If that were only possible maybe he could fix this. He feared his working relationship with the Sassenach was irreparably damaged and his heart dropped miles from where it had been. He jumped to his feet and drove his fist into a sturdy wood beam. What have I done, he thought, what have I done?

Claire flew up the stairs leaving a trail of water on the fine Persian rugs leading to her rooms. She pulled her clothes off and dropped them into a bucket to stem the dripping and dried herself. She stood in the dark of her bedroom and thought about his kiss. The fire in his lips touching hers and cascade of sensations going off from her skin to deep inside her. Just recalling the kiss made her squirm and feel…something very strong, very primal. She started pacing and chewing on her fingernails. What she did was wrong. What she did might jeopardize her entire operation and she was very confused. Half of her wanted to run to him, half wanted to pretend it never happened.

“Misses Crook!”

Claire could hear the older woman running toward her rooms and in a minute’s time Misses Crook was on her knees with Claire, holding onto her as she cried.

“Ye poor child,” she said rocking Claire. “Yer overwrought from all the danger, exercise, and stimulation from the day. Ye need to rest. I canna have ye comin down with a fever after runnin outside in the rain. Come child, get into bed and think of happy things.”

“Misses Crook, that would not include Mister Randell,” she said quietly.

“No, that it wouldn’t. I am bringin ye some soup and don’t ye move.”

Misses Crook ran for the kitchen wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. It was a travesty what Randell did to the poor young girl. He sought her out for her dowry so he could be the king of his own world, far from his controlling family. She watched him cloak himself in normalcy as he lured little Claire into his trap and she did nothing to help the girl. She regretted that decision down to her marrow. She knew he would be locked in purgatory or the fires of hell but what of the life he left behind?

Jamie paced in his cabin as the rain came down in sheets. He wondered where Yi Tien Cho was, probably hunkered down in one of the outbuildings tonight. He hoped. The walls were starting to close in on him and he yanked his door open to fill his lungs. The rain suddenly stopped and he stepped outside to enjoy a moment of fresh air. Putting his head back he breathed in the night air and wondered how Claire was doing tonight. He looked at the house and tried to guess which window she slept behind. His little Sassenach.

Jamie walked through the vineyard to assure himself nothing was amiss. A nagging feeling was scratching his brain but he could not put his finger on it. Thirty minutes later he walked back and hoped he could fall asleep and forget the emotions that gripped him. He pushed his door open and walked in, stopped, and backtracked, lifting his nose to the soft breeze. Fire! Jamie lunged for the bell and rang it with all his strength. Cabin doors were flying open as the men gathered around him. Other noses were raised to the night as the men looked around for the orange glow of a deadly fire.

“I think I see it, far edge of the property against the valley floor. Someone get on the roof and tell me what ye see. Angus was first to scramble up like he had suction pads on his feet. He looked toward the property edge.

“It’s burning boss, maybe five acres so far. He waited and jumped down when Jamie waved him in.”

The men started moving in the direction of the fire.

“Wait!” He rang the bell again to stop them. “Hold on, I need to think this through.”

Jamie paced and rubbed his forehead. He was sure, there was no lightning for at least an hour, just a steady downpour. The rain stops and a fire starts up.

‘This is a staged fire gentleman. They’re trying to pull every man to the far reaches of the property to put out a fire that was set in standing water. He pointed to three of the men and dispatched them to the rear of the house. Then he looked at his crew of forty-five well-muscled Highlanders and chuckled.

“I believe the fire was set to pull the men away from…” he twisted at the waist and looked behind him, “the house.” They intend to leave the prey defenseless so they can finish the lady. Angus, put a man on the roof, the rest of you make yerselves comfortable on the front porch. If they get past me on the road I want to give them a Highlander welcome.”

Jaime peeled off from the group before anyone could say a word. They saw him running in the shadows toward the road. The men joined Rupert on the porch and the excess bodies sat around the front presenting a formidable barrier to the front door. Since no one told them to be quiet they didn’t think of it

Misses Crook felt the tremors in the house and heard the male noise outside and dropped the soup as she ran for the stairs. Claire was on her knees with her hand to her mouth and reached for the older woman.

“What is that?” She whispered

“I dinna ken, but it sounds very big and male. We stay here, aye, and very quiet.”

Jamie was hunkered down in the roadside weeds trying to silently catch his breath. On a dark night like this, they could be standing right beside him undetected. He waited. It wasn’t long before he noticed two shadows walking slowly on the dirt road toward the house.

“What d’ye think Jamie boy?”

Jamie swallowed the startled noise he almost made from the disembodied voice right beside him. “Jesus Christ, is that ye Angus? Ye just scared ten years off my life ye dolt. Stay with those two quietly and watch where they go. I suspect they will turn into the property and mean to do Claire harm. Let them get as close as possible. When they see the welcoming committee they will run the direction they came. Hold em back until the men can get to them. Dinna fash if one gets by ye, I’ll get him after I run their horse off. Got it? Angus?”

Jamie followed the direction they came and found two perfectly good horses tied to different trees munching the long grass. Jamie pulled the saddles off, then the bridles and slapped each in the rump hard enough for them to run back to where ever they lodge. He hung the bridles on his shoulder and held the bits so they didn’t make noise when he ran back. He didn’t see the man but he heard him running and breathing hard. When he was right beside him Jamie kicked out where he hoped the knee would be. He felt the bones tear away from each other as the man screamed in agony. The whaling was quite excessive making Jamie roll his eyes before he placed his foot over the man’s knee and applied pressure.

“Stop yer wailin!”

“Who do ye work for?”

“No one!”

“What was your intention comin here, startin a fire in our crops?”

“I didn’t do that!”

Jamie squatted next to the man’s head. “It is my duty to inform ye that ye just lied, twice, and there will a painful consequence for each. Tell me the truth and I’ll let ye limp to yer horses.”

“I don’t know what yer talkin about, fuck off!”

Jamie lifted the man, patted his head, and drove his boot into the knee on the other side. The man dropped with a blood-curdling scream.

“Do ye know how easy it will be for me to rip yer throat out? Maybe I let ye live and pluck ye eyes out instead. Yep, that’s much more fun.” Jamie grabbed the man’s head in a painful lock and felt his face until his fingers landed on his eyes.

“Ah, there they are.” He pressed them as the man screamed a name, Ben Carson. “What were yer orders tonight.?”

“Count the men, rape the maid in front of the lady. Now let go!”

“Tell Ben Carson I’m comin for him. If he touches either of the women, I’ll make him scream for ten hours before I kill him.”

Jamie dropped the man and ran back to the property where one very scared man was tied to a tree while the Highlanders taunted him. Jamie approached the wide-eyed would-be rapist and bent over so he looked directly in his eyes. Yer friend wilna make it back so I’m countin on ye. Tell Ben Carson I will put my blade through his throat, and if he orders harm to the women living here, I will kill his wife and daughter first.

Jamie ran his blade up the ropes and the man ran away. He looked at the men, “did that sound convincing?”

Three men had been to the fire site and reported the ground is soggy and the fire is out.

“Thank ye for the help tonight gentlemen. He’s comin for the lady and now me. Stay diligent and safe. Angus, yer inside the house with me, Rupert, pick two teams of three for the two night shifts. Keep yer backs against the wall and get some rest.”

Jamie looked at Rupert who gave a nod that he was on board. “Let’s go inside Angus, we’ll each sleep against a door.” The group made their way back to the cabins except for Rupert and two of his men who took a seat on the porch. Jamie reached for the doorknob and ducked as a silver tea set came flying out aimed at his head. He pulled the door closed just in time before something crashed against it from inside.

“Just eight more weeks,” he said quietly. “Ladies! It’s Jamie Fraser, please drop yer weapons.”

He and Angus entered the house slowly looking for projectiles aimed at the heads. “Claire? Where are ye lass?”

He could hear two female voices whispering upstairs and sighed with relief. “Mistress, this is one of yer men and it’s safe to come out. I need to speak with ye.”

Misses Crook came down the stairs trying to look brave. Jamie watched her and almost caved in thinking about what they intended to do with her. Jamie dropped his head and squeezed his eyes closed before he was suddenly hit by a small body that locked him in a death grip trying to squeeze behind him and the wall.

Jamie reached behind him and grabbed Claire’s arm. “It’s safe misses Randell, please come out, we have to talk.” He pulled her in front of him and saw a mass of black hair that fell around her face and down her back in coiled ringlets. Her amber eyes looked up at him, wide with fear. She was wearing a nightgown and robe, holding a heavy candlestick. He had never seen such a beautiful site and his smile radiated his happiness. He cleared his throat and gently took the candlestick from her.

Misses Crook saw the full scale of Jamie’s emotion in his gaze and smile before he put the mask back on and started talking about the change in plans.

Angus and I will sleep against the two doors, three men in back, three men in front. They wilna get past us so please get some rest the two of ye, yer safe.

Misses Crook let Jamie see her disapproval before holding her hand out to Claire and pulling her upstairs. Jamie looked at the ground and shook his head. Claire was raising her voice to misses Crook about the door and window. The two women argued until misses Crook closed the door to her bedroom and shot Jamie a withering look as she walked to her own room.

Jamie dropped to the ground and closed his eyes. This was getting complicated and he had to keep his mind off the beautiful Sassenach. Just how was he supposed to do that? He hoped no one rushed the house tonight because he would surely sleep through it.

Jamie’s eyes slammed open hours later and he was instantly aware of her laying against him, shivering in the cold. He wrapped her in his warm arms and whispered she was safe and he would keep her warm. He pulled her to him and felt her shaking stop.

“I’ll no let any harm come to ya Sassenach. Ye can sleep in my arms, yer safe.”

When Jamie woke in the morning he wondered if he dreamed about Claire in his arms or if it was real. He pulled himself off the floor and stumbled outside to find his cabin and bed.

#outlander fanfic outlander fanfiction jamie and claire fanfiction

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shireness-says · 5 years

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What’s In A (Second) Name?

Summary: The arrival of a new family member should be a happy time. However, the birth of Henry's little brother stirs up some unwelcome internal conflict. A sequel snippet to “Killian Jones and the Lost Boy”. ~2.7K. Rated G. Also on AO3. Read the other installments: Killian Jones and the Lost Boy, Scurvy and Milestones

A/N: I’m back with more father-son adorableness! Definitely read at least the first installment - it’s a little longer, but definitely worth it. Thanks to @snidgetsafan for beta-ing, as always.

Tagging: @kmomof4, @searchingwardrobes, @darkcolinodonorgasm, @mythologicalmango, @thejollyroger-writer, @ultraluckycatnd, @winterbaby89

Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think!

Killian Jones is a father.

Of course, that’s not new. He’s been a father for almost four years now, ever since Henry came into his life and made him one; that had been the proudest moment of his life.

Until Hugo.

He and Emma hadn’t really planned on another child, but they also hadn’t really planned against it. Maybe they should have; they’re living together after all, engaging in the sorts of activities that adults in love living together get up to. Killian certainly could have procured protective sheaths in his travels, or Emma could have been taking preventative herbs. Hell, either one of them could have searched down a contraceptive potion for one of them to take. It’s probably a small miracle they don’t already have a herd of children running around underfoot; Killian can’t even say they’ve been particularly conscientious about him pulling out.

Still, it’s a surprise when Emma’s flow stops and nausea begins to plague her in the morning. Once they finally put the pieces together - gods, but the two of them are idiots sometimes, working themselves into a panic over something they should have probably anticipated - they’re undeniably thrilled, if nervous. They may be raising Henry together, but an infant is a very different thing from their seven year old. They aren’t even married, for goodness sakes, always putting it off as something they’d get around to eventually.

That’s the first order of business he and Emma set out to rectify. They’re married on a beautiful day in the spring with all their friends and family in attendance, Scarlet leading the crew in tossing rice and flower petals over their captain and his new wife as they exit the little village church. Henry, of course, had stood as best man; no one would hear of anything else. Emma’s dress hadn’t quite covered her ever-growing stomach and their little one within, but everyone had been too purely happy to care - least of all Killian. That moment, sliding a ring onto his love’s finger, had felt like a piece slipping into place in his very soul. This, his family and the love they share, is everything he could ever need. Only the arrival of his son or daughter could make this feeling any better.

And four months later, after a lot of waiting and a lot of pain and what Killian thinks might have been growling at one point in the whole torturous process, it does. He does. They have a baby, a son, another son.

Hugo Lucas Jones.

“Are you sure you don’t want to give him your brother’s name?” Emma asks when it’s just the two of them - pardon, just the three of them again after the midwife and Granny Lucas leave. She’s clearly exhausted, hair still drenched in sweat from her efforts with tired circles under her eyes, but she’s undeniably beautiful too - almost ethereal as she cradles their little one to her breast. Hugo himself is indescribably precious, a miracle with wisps of fluffy dark hair and ten perfect fingers and toes. Of course Killian had known that his child wouldn’t be born missing a hand like him, but those little fingers are still so amazing to him. Everything about Hugo is amazing, really - especially that someone as damaged as Killian, as scarred and maimed and morally compromised could be part of making something so perfect. He should probably leave Emma to rest and go retrieve Henry from where the lad has been waiting with Will and Belle, but Killian can’t tear himself away from the scene at his fingertips. Hugo nurses determinedly, little fist clenching and unclenching against his mother’s breast as Emma watches with unfiltered love in her gaze. Killian supposes he must look much the same; he’s barely dared blink since he first caught sight of his son, still covered in all manner of fluids and screaming at the indignity of the birthing process. Even now, his hand rests on the lad’s back, just above Emma’s own protective arms, unable to stop stroking along that downy soft skin.

(Yes, he’s already a father, but a newborn infant is a very different thing from raising a four year old, and every little detail fascinates him. Gods above, but he loves their newest addition so much already.)

“I think Hugo Lucas suits him better,” Killian replies. There’s a niggling little fear in the back of his mind that if he speaks too loudly, whatever wonderful spell he’s living in will be broken, leaving him all alone again. “After all your hard work, it seems more fitting to name him for your family. We wouldn’t be here without Granny, after all.”

Emma lets out a little huff of a laugh at that. “Yeah, and the fact that she took her first vacation in a decade. You only had to deal with me because she was gone.”

“And I’m thankful for it every day,” he soothes, leaning in to carefully kiss his wife on the lips over their newborn. What a combination of words to even consider - that he has a wife and a baby and another son waiting just down the hill to meet his new brother.

It’s not that he’s opposed to giving his brother’s name to Hugo for a second name. They’d originally planned on it, actually; Killian always thought he’d name his first son after Liam, if he was ever blessed with children, and Emma had readily agreed. How much Killian still looked up to his brother, had always looked up to him, was never any secret, and the closest thing Emma had to family herself were Granny and Ruby. But as they got closer and closer to the baby’s birth, and especially now that he’s here… it doesn’t feel quite right. Killian can’t identify why, but somehow it doesn’t feel like Hugo, as wonderful and precious and absolutely bloody perfect, is meant to carry the moniker. He just can’t put his finger on the reason why.

Not until an incident with Henry two months later, that is.

Henry loves the baby from the first moment they’re introduced, gently stroking a finger down his brother’s cheek. “He’s so small,” he says, grinning up at where Killian is watching over his shoulder. It’s not a trust thing; he know Henry would never hurt his brother, and anyways, he’s had plenty of practice around babies in the past year since Will and Belle’s little girl was born. His lad knows exactly how careful and gentle he has to be.

“Yeah, he is,” Killian grins back, ruffling Henry’s hair before looking up to meet Emma’s eyes. Gods, he loves her, loves this. This little family, clustered around their newest member, is everything he’s ever wanted. The grin only widens as Emma smiles back, before he turns his attention back to Henry. “What do you think, lad? Should we keep him?”

“I think so,” Henry says decisively, nodding as if to cement his declaration. Killian barely stifles a laugh; it’d never been a serious question, obviously, and it’s not like they can just give Hugo back, but it’s nice to hear Henry so certain on the matter. It bodes well for all the years to come.

An illustrious start, indeed.

And for the first month and a half, that holds. Of course there’s little issues - no one is a huge fan of the baby waking up every few hours to cry for a change and a meal, but Henry gets especially irritable having his sleep disrupted, as 8 year old boys are prone to do - but the good moments far outweigh the bad. Henry loves telling absolutely anyone that will listen about his new brother when he and Killian venture into town for various supplies, and spends half of Hugo’s waking moments making faces to try and make the baby smile or laugh, even if both Emma and Killian have told him that it’s way too soon for that. Henry doesn’t care. It’s adorable. Killian feels the strongest urge to try and imprint the moment into his very soul every time he sees it. It’s all blissful, honestly - or at least it is until Henry goes back to school.

Henry loves school. As much as he loves summer vacation as well, like any young lad, at his core he’s a curious boy who wants to know everything about everything and has a million questions that Killian and Emma can’t even begin to answer. He’s a social butterfly, too - not that Killian is shocked, not with the way Henry twisted an entire pirate crew around his wee fingers from the moment he stepped on board the Jolly Roger - and he’s got plenty of friends in his year. Most days, he comes home bursting with new things he learned and the things he did with Bruno and Robbie and Mack and every single detail of the the scant few hours he was away from his loving parents. They don’t expect any different out of this year.

Henry is subdued when he comes home from school, though, barely talking about his day and picking at his dinner. It’s… odd. Then again, he is getting older. They’d expected some attitude changes, though maybe not this until they were into the teenage years. They’ve all been a little short on sleep, too, a slight cold that Hugo’s contracted driving Emma and Killian nearly mad with worry and keeping the entire family up at all hours of the night. As unusual as Henry’s behavior is, they’re willing to overlook it that first day, and even the second, identifying all kinds of logical excuses as to why he might be this way. It’ll pass soon enough when they’re all getting a little more sleep.

The thing is, it doesn’t get better. In fact, it’s been nearly two weeks, and Henry is still frighteningly subdued, without any reason that Killian can identified. It’s hard for either him or Emma to work more than a short sentence out of their boy, and he’s not even interested lately in his little brother. It’s a complete one-eighty from the boy he was only this summer, the cheerful lad they all know and love, and Killian and Emma are worried sick.

After eleven days, Killian can’t take it anymore. Maybe it would be more understanding parenting to let the lad come to them in his own time, but if someone - or something - has turned his boy into this brooding shade, then Killian wants to know. Anything is better than witnessing with his hands tied behind his back whatever is tearing Henry apart. So when he spots Henry sitting on the gentle slope outside their little house, staring out at the ocean (so much like Killian’s own habits when his own thoughts are a mess), Killian moves to join him, settling himself on the soft grass next to the boy.

“What’s up with you, little mate?” He asks, nudging Henry gently with his shoulder. As the lad has gotten older, he’s protested the “little” title more and more, reminding everyone of exactly how big he is. Killian remembers that same urge; after all, he spent a considerable portion of his own lifetime reminding Liam that he was younger, not little. Now, though, Henry only shrugs. Another bad sign.

“Come now, lad,” he prods. “I know something’s the matter. You haven’t been yourself since school started.”

Another shrug.

“Are the other kids being mean? Do I need to go speak with their parents, or the teacher?” It’s been a while, but Killian thinks he could still manage to be intimidating if he needed to be. Maybe. It’s yet to be seen if the bags under his eyes will work for or against him.

“No, nothing like that,” Henry quickly mumbles.

“What is it then? Because I’m serious, I’ll go talk to them, you’ve just got to tell me what happened —”

“Nothing happened, Dad,” he rolls his eyes. Definitely picked that up from Emma. “It’s just…” he pauses.

“Yeah?”

“I’ve just been been thinking about something Jack said.” Not one of Henry’s particular friends, if Killian remembers right. More of an annoyance, really, if he’s keeping the names straight, though the boys mostly stay out of each other’s way.

“And what’s that?”

Henry is quiet for a long moment, to the point Killian is worried he’ll have to start prodding again, before finally speaking. “I was telling everyone about Hugo,” he says. “And I was talking about —” He pauses. “It’s stupid,” the boy mumbles.

“Of course it isn’t,” Killian assures. “What were you telling them?”

“I was telling about how he had three names,” Henry mumbles, barely audible. “And Jack said that everyone has three names, because their second name is a family name. But I only have two names,” Henry concludes, tears glistening in his eyes, “because I don’t have a family.”

The words plow into Killian like a knife in the gut. “Oh, lad, that’s not true,” he protests.

“It is though,” Henry says, tears openly spilling down his cheeks. “I wasn’t always with you. You’re not really my father.”

That’s the final straw for Killian. He can’t just sit here and listen to this as a patient observer; practically without conscious thought, he reaches his arms over and hauls Henry across his lap like he used to cradle the boy back when he was so much smaller. “Of course I am, Henry,” he declares. “You chose me. I’ve been a father since the moment you made me one.”

“Not by blood,” Henry sniffles.

“Maybe not, but in every other way that matters. Family is about who you choose, and who chooses you. I’ve been your father since probably even before you named me that way, and I’m going to be your father even if you decide you don’t want me to be. Long past then.”

Something about that must sink in, as Henry nods where he buries his face into Killian’s neck. Absentmindedly, he rubs the boy’s back and makes shushing noises to calm Henry as he tries to sort out his words in his head. There’s something important to be said here, something that’s been niggling at him for weeks and is only now falling into place.

“You know, your mother asked after Hugo was born if I wanted to name him for my brother,” he says as casually as he can muster - like he’s just relaying facts, not touching on something deep and emotional.

Henry frowns at that. “But wasn’t your brother’s name Liam?” he asks.

“Aye. I thought naming him for your mother’s family suited him better. But you know what’s more?” he asks, making sure to meet Henry’s eyes. “That’s your name. I’d always planned to give it to my eldest, and that’s you.” It’s not something he’s just saying, or meaningless platitudes; it feels right, in a way that settles the little bit of him saying that Liam’s name is meant for someone else. “What do you say to that, Henry Liam?”

“You don’t have to,” he mumbles, but there’s a little smile tugging at his mouth and the tears seem to be drying.

“No I don’t,” Killian concedes. “But it’s yours. It feels right, like it’s always been yours. You’ve heard my stories about Liam, right?” Henry nods. “Then you know that he was the best brother a man could have. He wasn’t perfect, and I don’t know if anyone else would think he was a great man, but I know that he was a good one, just like you’re growing up to be. You’re going to be an even better big brother than he was.”

“You think so?”

“I know so.” Killian presses a firm kiss to the crown of Henry’s head, breathing in that perfect little boy smell, before moving to stand. “Now, what do you say we go back and see what Mom and Hugo are up to? I think she’s been watching us and pretending to do things in the kitchen while we’ve been talking.” She’s been worried sick, he doesn’t say, but Henry probably knows it all the same. He’s always been too perceptive for his own good.

“Okay,” Henry agrees, popping back up with the energy of youth. As soon as Killian’s found his own feet, Henry throws his arms around his waist. “I love you, Dad.”

“I love you too, my boy.”

It’s always been as simple as that - Henry is his, and he’s undeniably Henry’s.

They chose each other, and it’s a choice he’ll never regret.

#cs ff #captain swan #captain cobra #my writing #What's In A (Second) Name?#Killian Jones and the Lost Boy #guess i'm on a cute baby streak lately #i don't see anyone complaining though

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punkscowardschampions · 4 years

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Ali & Tommy

Ali: TOM BOMB Ali: you will never guess what Tommy: you're adopted? CALLED IT Tommy: too fabulous for those heathens Ali: way to make my actual news look less 😏 Ali: isn't don't oversell it like rule #1 Ali: [sends cast list so its all official] Tommy: darling, breaking every rule is rule #1 Tommy: you ain't that adopted Tommy: OH MY SWEET LORD! YOU BETTER NOT BE TROLLING ME ALISON Tommy: I know your genius extends to photoshop pro but you mustn't use it for such evil Ali: who would I really be hurting with that troll, huh Ali: no one but myself Ali: but if its good enough for Queen Meryl 😁😁😁 Tommy: Preach it sister Ali: I'm so fucking excited I could burst Tommy: Meanwhile my school is putting Fanny and Alexander Tommy: like that Ingmar Bergman fever dream can or should be adapted for the stage Tommy: Jesus Christ Ali: we LOVE child abuse for a fun family night out Ali: guess the parentals like to be shown their money is being spent SERIOUSLY on SERIOUS theatré Tommy: The guardian voted it 8th best arthouse film OF ALL TIME therefore it must be worthy Tommy: I will not hesitate to put on a wig and replace you, Kit Tommy: before I do, 1 question Tommy: WHY AND HOW THE FUCK IS MEENA'S BROTHER NOT PLAYING THE SWEDISH LOTHARIO?!! Tommy: what is your casting director 🚬? Ali: I dread to think what 9 and 10 were 😏 Ali: must put them on my not-to-watch list Ali: 😂 Ro literally called it, we all know, I will uninvite you if you even THINK of upstaging me 😉 Ali: IKR its so funny Ali: maybe he thought he was being subversive casting a black guy Ali: but then I wouldn't have my role if that was his jam so 🤷 go off Tommy: Yeah HARD same 🙄😴 Tommy: you can try but I've sent a congrats text to Carls and she'll re-invite me Tommy: if he was the baby daddy the whole island would know but alright, like Ali: also true Ali: 😂 SERIOUSLY Ali: like hmm, I wonder where this white blonde blue eyed baby came from Ali: when you get diverse with your casting and the plot falls apart 😏 god bless, they're trying Tommy: that's WHY he cast Drew, he's being very catholic and trying to marry you off to the right man at the end Tommy: Sir you can't be deciding he's the daddy like that, how dare you! Ali: and that's WHY he cast me as Donna Ali: knows our ma won't flip out on the implication her daughter hoe'd around all summer and has no idea who fathered her child Ali: the subtle shade of it all Tommy: 😂 Tommy: I can't wait to see her go full Molly Weasley when she realises the plot of the thing Tommy: my Alison COULD NEVER you wanker! Tommy: would never 'cause you'd be in chains 😏 Ali: that's the other possibility, he hasn't clocked I'm GayLite and he thinks the idea I'm knocked up is right jokes Ali: Ma wishes 🤞🤞🤞 Tommy: Or he's calling out his biphobia and everyone who is as a HUGE whore Tommy: that's awkward Ali: when you don't prove the haters wrong 😬 Ali: whoops Tommy: When's opening night? I gotta see this Ali: duh, I've already begged on your behalf Ali: [the date] Tommy: I'm so ready for my handbags at dawn moment with Robbie Tommy: always a pleasure Tommy: unlike witnessing Drew outdoing Pierce Brosnan as the hottie who can't hold a note and DYING on stage Ali: I'll hold your earrings, babe Ali: if he can wait for the show to be over Ali: and don't be mean 🤫 Ali: he...needs some work Ali: but I'm willing to be like your worst teacher on speed about it, have him west end ready in, however many weeks they're giving us Tommy: Cheers, 'course I was born ready whenever he wants to go though 🥊🩰 Tommy: You know I'm here if you need me, fairy gaybrother and all Tommy: he will go to the (disco) ball! Ali: I'll let him know as much 😏 Ali: 💚 Ali: Luckily the choreo is simple, so he's got that down Ali: and how hard is it to pretend you're in love with me, honestly Ali: the singing though Tommy: how many songs does he have? Are they staying movie true? Ali: WELL, the tea is we've already cut a me him duet flashback to a solo for moi, but he HAS to do SOS to drive the plot, then its minimal lines on Our Last Summer, which Robbie is THRILLED about obvs, but he also HAS to do When All Is Said And Done, though maybe I can convince the director that'd work better as a toast moment legit, sans singing Tommy: Fucking hell Tommy: yeah unless there's somebody he could mime for Tommy: or a girl they could drag up to resemble him for the musical numbers Ali: REALLY go in and make it obvious who the dad is 😂 Ali: comes to something when the only viable option is the out out gay kid Tommy: SOS is gonna be brutal but I reckon you're onto something cutting the last number down Tommy: by then the audience will either be LIVING for you or DYING over him and we all know how the drama dept would rather it Tommy: arts funding is already in the bog, like Ali: Truly... fuck it, if we don't get it then instead of taking turns at a verse each we'll do it together and I will belt the fuck out of it Ali: you don't have to tell me, the wardrobe is abhorrent Ali: but we're already on that, even if I have to dress the entire cast myself Tommy: Christ alive, I will come home early and help you save the show, bags full of stolen props and costumes Tommy: Sorry not sorry, mother Ali: Oh LORDT, what even is the costuming for fucking Ali: fanny and whathisface Ali: I bet you are LIVING Tommy: Everyone here has now said fuck it and we're sorting out watching Mamma Mia Tommy: the girls and gays are 💔😭 Tommy: Straight Simon alone is unaffected Tommy: SEND HELP ALL MY MATES ARE ASKING IF DREW'S TOO WHITE TO TURN SOS INTO A RAP 😂 Ali: that boy is an enigma Ali: do not encourage him PLEASE 😭😭😭 Ali: all for mixing it up but if I have to look 💔 at a boy rapping about what happened to our love...nah Ali: even Meryl couldn't Tommy: Quick, dish on the rest of your all star cast, that'll 100% work in amusing them Tommy: any room to judge and they don't give a fuck about a single thing else Ali: Oh well, let's see Tommy: I'm the proudest of my sweet baby Carls and know she'll be grand, but the people are restless and thirsty for that hot tea Ali: Rosie's a sweetie, she jams with us on the drums every now and then, so you'd recognize her face not her name, she's gonna be so funny, perf for that role so I can't slag on her, I'm afraid darlings Ali: right?! MY BABY 💕 Ali: we did our auditions in groups of about 3 so it was just me, her and Cavante, she killed it forreal Tommy: Yeah? I do remember her! She comments on many o' Meena posts and you can hear the 🍀 Tommy: I'm gonna call her later, Carls that is, not your drummer Ali: I'm DYING for her to give the brummie a go, if that's as hilariously bad as we're all imagining, I'll send that to quench your mates thirst 🍵 Tommy: You're a star on so many levels Ali: 🥰 Ali: Who else DON'T you know? 🤔 Ali: the girls playing Meena's friends, me either Ali: they're her year though Ali: one of them has the good=loud vibe so I wouldn't be surprised if she went to one of your theatre groups as a kid Tommy: The lad in her year too? I dunno him Ali: Yes, which is rude Ali: he's got hot over the summer clearly 'cos like, HELLO? Ali: he's decent though, fair craic Tommy: Every show needs a dark horse Ali: they're cute Ali: some of his friends, esp. the one Carls has to seduce are 😬 Ali: thank God she's talented Tommy: at least some fuckers'll have chemistry Tommy: you'll be full Meryl-ing to convince ANYONE that Drew's the love of your life Tommy: and Carly would never waste a second on a younger lad Ali: at least I get to be fuming at him most the time Ali: lying cheating bastard 😏 Tommy: 👀🔪 Tommy: I'm well jealous Ali: I know, babes, I know Tommy: less gutted now this sing-a-long is kicking off Tommy: you wanna be facetimed in? Ali: um YES Ali: counts as a rehearsal Tommy: [does call her so she can join]

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amnachil · 5 years

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The College Society Chapter 2 Part 7

Enjoy :) One part left for chapter 2 !

Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey holidays from Thursday December 20 to Sunday January 6

In the Smith family, Christmas meant orgy. In the Carrey family, it meant binge. For the blond lad, it meant both. To be clear, of course he didn't had sex with his blood relatives. But with the others... His brother-in-law was more than happy to have a taste of his cock. Each year since the first time they had met by the way. My sister have a good taste in men, I can't control it. He also slept with his mother's bestfriend. The old lady only liked the missionary position, but eh, why not. The delivery girl who brought the pizza really loved his skills with his tongue. Their neighbors were up for a threesome, like last year. Anyway, the day after christmas, he got a call from Zack. They talked for a bit. Then, Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey went back to this cute girl which was sucking his dick.

Around the last day of December, he left the town for a special mission. Generally, during the holidays, he just enjoyed himself with as much people as possible. Then, he would focus back in the hunt in January. But the preys were already submissive before the holidays. Usually, one week was enough to catch them. Then they were banging one week or two. And then he started a new hunt. But Liam. Liam was so special. So different. His weakness for food was a very important point. Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey was kind of a chef. He liked to cook, and he was the head of the cooking club at the university. He could use this at his advantage. But it's not enough. This baboon will not gave in so easily. The Dean's grandson needed more fucking information. That was why he had bought this ticket. For a soccer game and a special encounter with the players.

Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey didn't really watch the game. He found a whore in the public who was eager to fuck him, and they spent most of the time in the toilet. But afterwards, he joined the group of VIP, and entenred in the lockroom. It was easy to notice Raphaël Muller among the players. Not only because he was ginger. He had a bloody sex-appeal. He was incredibly handsome, yes, but a coldness also emanated from him. He's a hunter. I can smell it. A satisfied hunter. My complete opposite in a way. When it was Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey's turn to talk to him, he smiled.

"Hi. Liam Strucker talked so much about you. I'm a huge fan."

Raphaël didn't believe him at all. Damnit. Not good.

"Nice to meet you." the ginger lad greeted with a ontuous but cold voice. "It's surprising from Liam, because I don't think he even remembers who I am when I'm not next to him."

"Well, he's absent minded, I know that. You two are close ?"

"I wonder who you are." smiled the other. "I mean, don't take this the wrong way, but you sounds hungry. Not for food."

Now I know why Liam isn't impressed by me at all. He already met quite a specimen. Come here might have been a bad idea. But now, Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey was fucked. This dude might become a real pain in his ass.

"Fuck it." he mumbled. "You already guessed what I fucking want from this lucky bastard. Are you going to help or not ? I don't have the whole fucking day."

"I can tell you something you might find useful." conceded Raphaël. "You can't have Liam in your bed if you don't give your heart in exchange. He's one of the last true lover this society produced."

"Don't be so sure about this." retorted the blond lad. "I agree with you, he's a bally authentic. But I can corrupt him."

"You're cocky."

"You too dude."

In other circumstances, we would get along so well. Sex with him must be amazing. However, Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey had finally learnt something important. This hunt was his very last. The hunt of his life.

For the New Year, he obviously had a lot of sex. With a lot of people. He went to a party with former highschool buddies, and banged some of them. In groups. In the morning, he met Zack, and they had a good time together, but no sex. He knew where to put limits. Then, he headed back in the campus. Summer picked him up at the airport.

"Glad to see you." she greeted him. "I hope your holidays went well ?"

"Focus on the road you cunt. I don't want to die because you don't know how to drive."

"Sorry."

Damnit, she was a real stupid cow. When they arrived, he asked :

"Did Liam came back already ?"

"Yeah. He's studying with his roommate." she answered. "Why ? Do you give up ?"

Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey looked at her, surprised.

"Why would I dummy ?"

"It's the first time I see you struggling so much."

Moron. Fucking useless fuckwit. She's dumber everytime I see her. It's time to reawaken her competitive's spirit. He already knew someone perfect to bring some competition. A little roach ready to do eveything he asked for in order to be a ruler. And now, it was time to begin the hunt again.

Liam Monday January 7

The first exam didn't go well for the poor lad. The next will be as difficult... Not only he didn't study much, but he also had been daydreaming during the test. I couldn't focus because there was a weird cloud. (For real, it looked like a giraffe).

"Look at her." muttered Nick next to him. "Walking like a queen. And to think that we were friend."

Liam glanced at Rebecca. Apparently, the girl had sent to his roommate a letter he didn't liked at all. During his holidays, he mostly played videogames and stuffed his face. But he probably passed the test anyway. I'm not this lucky. Maybe I should try some magic trick. (Seriously, magic was powerful). (Once, he saw a rabbit stepping out from a hat !).

"Liam dude. Wake up."

The chestnut lad stared at Nick. Then he noticed Pete and a girl. They were all looking at him, a bit worried.

"Yes, what ?"

"Sorry, you didn't hear what I just said ?" Pete was amazed. "Well, this is Leila Hart, a classmate. She said she needed to meet you so..."

Liam greeted her politely. I saw her somewhere. She looks familiar, but I forgot where I met her. (Definitely, Liam the absent minded was back). (Better than Liam the depressed tho).

"I'm Colton's twin sister." she said. "You're the guy who knows Barbara, right ?"

"Hum, yeah. Why ?"

He had a bad feeling about this. His old friend resented him for what happened to his ex boyfriend. What did she tell to her friends ?

"Well, she just broke up with Colton, supposedly because he's your friend and she doesn't like this. And look, I don't wanna know why she hates you. But I want my twin brother to be happy, and this slut just ditched him like a trash. But I think he's deeply in love with her, so can you talk to her ?"

Oh. Crap. Well, at least he had one good week with Nate. (Now, he was sure a powerful and strong witch cursed him). (Or a Lich, but whatever, he was doomed). He wanted to lay down right here in recovery position and just wait. But he promised his bestfriend to make an effort. Nick nudged him.

"Dude, stop stargaze and answer to the girl."

"Sorry. Well, I'll need to talk to Colton first, but I'll see what I can do."

"Good." stated Leila. "Because if you don't, trust me I will smash your pretty face in."

After this sweet encounter with Colton's twin sister, Nick and Liam hit the canteen. They also started to review the exam of this afternoon. At least until Dami showed up. The blond lad sat at their table and smiled softly.

"Hi dudes. I hope you're succeeding those exams ?" he greeted them. "Look, I won't be long. Liam, I have a little something for you. A gift for good luck."

The chestnut lad had never realised before how scary Dami's eyes were before. The poor man probably suffered from a malediction too. (It was plausible). (Witches could be so mean with innocent boy and girl all around the world). The blond lad suddenly slapped him.

"Hey Liam, I'm talking to you. Here, take this."

He offered a pie. An aromatic, appetising pie.

"Thank you Dami."

This one gnahsed his teeth, but forced a smile. He wished them good luck and left. Nick took a slice of the pie and comentated :

"Your relationship is so weird. This dude gives me the shivers. Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey, brr..."

"He's nice." assured Liam while taking a slice too. "And his pie is succulent."

At the end of the afternoon, the chestnut lad had an appointment he didn't want to go. But his mother wanted him to see a shrink. She had called him yesterday, and she had said how much she loved him. She wasn't blaming him, but herself, and she was sorry for everything. (At this point, he had felt worst than before but a bit relieved too). And so Liam met his new psychologist. It was a nice woman, Ms. Hang, who greeted him kindly. Nonetheless, for half an hour, they didn't speak much. The couch was comfy, and he liked it. He spent the time thinking about unrelated stuff. (For example, as someone ever wondered how to transform into an angel ?) (Because angel were humans blessed by god, weren't they ?) Eventually, the shrink asked :

"Maybe we should talk about those panic attacks, don't you think Liam ?"

"I don't know, should we ?"

He honestly didn't want to. He was fine. (Okay, maybe not totally fine but you got the point).

"Do you think I'm judging you ?"

"Isn't it your job ?"

"No Liam it's not. Do you feel unconfortable with judgment ?"

She asks so many questions. I want to go to sleep. It was a complete waste of time for both of them. But maybe she would agree to let him take a nap on her couch.

"Our session is almost over." she smiled. "Wanna know what I wrote on my notebook ?"

"Not really."

"I think you're running away from your problems as fast as you can." she said anyway. "You're not trusting people easily are you ? After what happened with your family and your ex-boyfriend in 12th grade, you started to be more and more dreamy, disconnected from the reality. All that in order to avoid facing reality. And it became natural. But it's not always working is it ? Sometimes, you can't just ignore the problem right in front of you."

"I don't like you anymore." he grumbled. "Neither your couch."

"We'll work with all this. Even the couch if you want. I'm not a life fixer, I can't change what you or your parents did. But I'll help you to face it. That's my job."

"You'll make me judge me ?"

She didn't answer, a bit surprised by his summary. The session ended like this. He wasn't sure it really helped but... at least his mother would be pleased. (And he had found a nice couch, he was eager to search the same for his appartment). He would be back next week anyway.

Rebecca Wednesday January 9

Until now, exams went well. After all, the black girl had spent her whole holidays studying. However, this evening, she had something else in mind. Matthew was supposed to come soon, and they would start the plan. But before that, she needed Bob to leave. For now, his coach was checking her computer. She was feeling betrayed. I thought I could trust you, but you're on my parent's side. According to him, she wasn't in good condition for the Olympics without his monitoring. Rebecca wanted to go to the Olympics, but it wasn't fair. Both her parents and Bob used it as an excuse to control her life.

"It seems everything is fine..." started her coach. "...except one curious thing. Why did you make a research about this Nicolas Lawson ?"

Oh shit. I had deleted my history... It was just to check what Liam had said. Nick actually was a genius.

"I got it my girl. He's still harassing you, isn't he ? I'm gonna talk with him."

"No. That won't be necessary Bob." she said. "He came to me to apologise. We're good now, I'm never seing him again. You've my word."

"Okay. But remember, you can always come to me if you need help."

She nodded. I just avoided a major crisis. She lied to Bob, because Nick was just mad. Really, really mad. And the more she lied about him, the more she felt ashamed. I never thanked him for everything he had done. And he's taking care of Liam. I misjudged him since the very beginning.

Once Bob finally left, she changed for the plan. She wore a slinky dress, emphazising her forms.The sophomore arrived a bit later with Chelsea. He complimentated her, and sat in her sofa with a smile.

"Today we'll free you. Emilio isn't aware of what's happening ?"

"No, I managed to keep it secret."

Since monday, her imposed boyfriend was more and more possessive. He was following her almost everywhere, always with an hand on her shoulder. From outside, he seemed a bit overprotective. But for her, he was a real tyrant. And tonight, she expected to put an end at all this.

"So, who's the guy I'll have sex with ?" she asked. "I made myself a reason, as you said it's just sex, nothing more. I'm ready."

"That would be me." answered Matthew with a grin.

What ? He wasn't joking at all. But he's with Chelsea. They're a fuckin' couple. The nurse wasn't surprised. She even looked okay with it. Shit. I should decline.

"Before you change your mind, just think about it." whispered the sophomore. "I'm here, so it's easy to do it right now. And I have a girlfriend, so I won't be emotionally tempted. It's worth a shot."

"I'm fine with it." added Chelsea. "C'mon Rebbie, my Matt is a good lay !"

The black girl hesitated. Maybe he was expecting this the whole time. Maybe it's only a plan for him to have sex. She looked at him more closely. A bit taller than her, he was blond with blue eyes. He was well-dressed, quite hunky with a kinda pretty face. She never had thought about him that way but in truth, he wasn't ugly.

"It's your only chance to get rid of Emilio." he reminded. "No one except me will help you."

"Okay. Let's do this."

They went alone in her bedroom. Matthew took his phone out of his pocket and smiled again.

"I'm gonna film the whole thing as a proof for Emilio. Okay ?"

Really ? Is it necessary ? She tried to contest, but he suddenly kissed her intensely. He pushed her onto the bed and laid over her.

"I'll be gentle." he assured. "I promise."

While kissing her, he took off their clothes. At this point, she was too horny to discuss. It was just sex, like Ollie had said. I can do this. It'll be fine. Matthew had a bigger penis than she expected. And he knew how to use it. One orgasm became two. And then three. She couldn't stop, he neither. They were moaning strongly. Suddenly, the door opened. Emilio stormed in, beside himself. He looked completely mad. His eyes were enraged, his face disfigured with anger. What the hell is he doing here ?! Rebecca hid her body with the blanket, terrified. It was bad. Really, really bad.

"Hey dude." smiled Matthew, not surprised at all. "You took your time."

"I just didn't believe when Chelsea came sayin' you were sleeping with my girlfriend !" yelled Emilio. "How dare you do this a second time ?"

What ? A second time ? What does that even mean ?

"I'm a thief." laughed Matt. "And you're a patsy. Not my fault."

"She's my girlfriend !" screamed the mexican guy. "She loves me."

"Does she ? Ask her man. It's like Chelsea, she didn't like you either. A home-hunter, who could live with someone like this ?"

Rebecca was still stunned. Her brain started to work slowly. Chelsea was with Emilio ? How come I didn't know this ? She also remembered what she read about thief hunter. They liked to steal other's lovers. It was an article of someone livin' in the town, with the pseudo D.R.. She probably could trust it.

"Rebecca." mumbled Emilio. "You love me right ?"

She didn't hesitate long. After all, Matthew was there.

"No. Not anymore. You're scaring me, and I don't want to see you again."

"She's brave isn't she ?" laughed the sophomore. "Get the fuck off Emilio."

He did what they asked. He left, just like that. Is it over ? So easily ? Rebecca couldn't believe Matthew's plan worked.

"You're free." stated this latter. "I don't think he'll come back around anytime soon. Now... Do you want to discover something very nice with Chelsea and me ?"

To be continued

So we’re almost done with Chapter 2.

The hunt is going well, Damian is getting very invested hehe. He wants Liam and he knows the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach ;)

Will Liam be pleased or not, we’ll see that soon.

As for Rebecca well, she escaped the home-hunter, but now she’s with a thief. So will she accepts that or not ?

#the college society #cs #Damian Nicholas Smith Carrey #Liam #Rebecca #exams #Raphaël says hi #hunters are everywhere #Matthew got what he wanted #chapter 2 #part 7

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takemeawaytocamelot · 7 years

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The Runaways: Epilogue

SURPRISE!!!! Y’all thought last week was the end of the Runaways story. But it wasn’t! Not totally, anyway. I couldn’t leave it how it was, despite the happy ending. I needed something a little bit more, so I drafted the epilogue. I hope you guys like it!

Catch up on the previous parts: The Funny Twist of Fate, The Elephant in the Room, Sweet Deliverance

The cab lurched to one side, sending Claire crashing into Jamie. He grunted at the impact, but helped her settle into her seat again.

“Alright, Sassenach?”

“Yes, I’m quite alright. Sorry for nearly crushing you.”

He shrugged.

“Ye didna hurt anything. But I wasne askin’ about that.”

Claire sighed and looked to the curtained window.

“I know. You were asking about coming back here.”

“It’s been over a year since either of us set foot here.”

“If it wasn’t for Isobel, we probably still wouldn’t be coming back.”

Jamie nodded, taking her hand in his. The silver ring on her finger still shone as brightly as it had when he’d put it on her.

“Aye. But she insisted we attend her wedding, so here we are. Yer da said he’d meet us, right?”

She nodded.

“He said he wanted to stop and get Isobel a gift, so he’ll be along behind us. But I’m not worried about me. I’m worried about you.”

His brows went up.

“Me? Ye have nothin’ to worry about, lass.”

“The last time you were here, you worked as their groom. Now you’re here as my husband, technically in the same social standing as they are.”

He snorted and squeezed her hand.

“They willna see it that way. To them, I’m likely the groom that seduced ye into sin.”

Claire laughed a little and leaned her head on his shoulder.

“I’m honestly not sure who seduced who.”

“Och it was clearly you who seduced me, Claire. I was a verra honorable man before ye tempted me away.”

“Is that how you remember it?”

He nodded, settling his arm around her shoulders.

“Aye, because that’s how it happened.”

“And all this time I thought you were the one that seduced me, with your wild stories and clever tongue.”

Jamie kissed the top of her head as the cab began to slow down.

“Ye didna ken about my ‘clever tongue’ until after ye ran away wi’ me.”

“James Fraser!” she scolded, hitting his chest. “That is not what I meant and you know it!”

He laughed heartily and sat up when the door opened.

“Are ye saying my tongue isne clever in that way?”

Her cheeks flushed bright pink and she glared at him.

“No, your tongue is quite clever, as you demonstrated this morning.”

Jamie stepped out of the cab and stretched, letting out a groan of satisfaction. Then he turned to his wife and helped her to her feet. She rested a hand on the small of her back, rubbing the sore spot while her other came around to caress her large stomach.

“How’s the bairn?”

“As glad as his mother to be out of that cab.”

Jamie smiled and knelt down to put both his hands over his unborn child.

“Willna be long now. Just wait until after Isobel gets married, aye? Dinna want to take away from her big day.”

“He’ll come when he wants,” Claire said tartly. “He’s a Fraser.”

Standing, he offered his arm to her and escorted her into the house.

“Aye, and so he is. He’ll be a braw lad.”

Louisa and William Dunsany greeted them awkwardly, unsure what to say to the pair.

“It’s a pleasure to see you again,” Claire said, nodding rather than trying to dip in a curtsey.

“Yes, quite,” Lord Dunsany said. “You must be due to drop any time now?”

“Soon,” Claire agreed. “Has Geneva arrived for the ceremony?”

Louisa pulled her eyes away from Claire’s huge stomach and offered an unfelt smile.

“Yes, she and her husband should be here shortly.”

Jamie was pleased to hear she’d been married off, though her threats wouldn’t mean anything anymore.

“Married?” Claire asked in surprise.

“Yes. It was quite a short engagement. It happened shortly after you both… married.”

Jamie put his hand on Claire’s back in support.

“I hope she’s quite happy,” he said.

“Yes,” Louisa said. “She is.”

“I’m terribly sorry, Aunt Louisa,” Claire said through a yawn. “Would you mind if we retired to our room for a short time? I’m afraid our journey was long and tiresome.”

Louisa nodded and blinked quickly.

“Yes, yes of course. I’ll send a maid for you when dinner is ready.”

“Thank you,” Claire said, following one of the maids down to what used to be her room when she visited.

With the door closed, Claire turned and sat heavily in a large chair. Jamie followed her and began rubbing her shoulders without a word.

“I wonder how long it took them to marry her off,” Claire said absently.

“From what yer Da told us, I imagine she had an engagement by the end of the week. Threw a tantrum like a wee bairn.”

They laughed together and relaxed in their room until they were called for dinner. Offering his arm, Claire took it and they walked down to the dining hall. Everyone was just taking their seats, including Geneva and an older man Jamie didn’t recognize.

“Oh! There you are, Claire,” Lambert said, pulling out a chair for her. “Have you met Geneva’s husband?”

“No, I’m afraid I took a bit of a nap after we arrived.”

Lamb smiled and nodded to the man beside Geneva.

“The Earl of Ellesmere.”

“Pleasure to meet you,” Claire said. “This is my husband, James Fraser.”

The earl nodded, his face bland and devoid of expression. Geneva, on the other hand, was seething. She held a silver fork in her hand so tightly her knuckles had turned white. They could hear her teeth grinding together from across the table.

“You’re looking well, Countess,” Jamie said politely.

She gave only a tight smile in response before looking pointedly away. Claire hid her grin behind her hand. The meal progressed as well as might be expected, the conversation never venturing further than polite interest.

That night, as they lay in bed, Claire sighed.

“Did you see the look on her face? I thought she might set the whole table on fire!”

“Aye, so did I. Christ, I dinna think I’ve ever seen anyone look so angry. But I’m glad to be here wi’ you.”

He kissed her softly, trailing his lips down her neck. He kissed both breasts before moving down to her swell.

“I’m glad too, Jamie. I love you.”

Caressing their child, he grinned up at her.

“I love ye too, Sassenach. Both of ye.”

Holding his beloved wife close, he settled in to sleep.

END

#outlander #outlander fanfic #takemeawaytocamelot #the runaways au #helwater au #jamie x claire #epilogue

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fandomlife-giver · 7 years

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Just Another Night (Black Maid One-shot)

Summary: Okay, I just had this idea. One-shots with you and Vincent Phantomhive when you were still his maid. So, basically, this is how you became his maid. Let me know if you guys enjoyed this and want more “Black Maid” One-shots.

Pairings: Vincent Phantomhive x Demon!reader

@wintersdoll

Warnings: implied abuse, implied sickness and death

Word Count: 3299

Another day of broken promises. Another ball out of our expenses. Another day of high expectations.

I walked up to the tall mirror within my room and frowned at its reflection.

"Vincent! Are you ready, dear?"

My head turned towards the door and I gave a closed-eyed smile, a habit of mine. "I'll be right down, mother!"

"The carriage is awaiting us, hurry up, now!"

My smile dropped. I sighed as my hand ran through my hair and I looked back at my reflection. "Just another day."

. . .

As I reached the bottom of the staircase, my temporary closed smile returned. Mother turned around and walked up to place her hands on my shoulders.

"Vincent, look at you, making us late again."

No matter how often she smiled, the trembling shakiness of her hands was enough to make mine disappear. "He invited us last minute, he most likely wouldn't notice our presence anyways. I don't see why you try so hard to impress him."

She moved her hand to rub my cheek. "Oh Vincent, you silly boy, as a Phantomhive, we must act as expected with elegance, charm, and manners." She turned away as a violent cough escaped her and quickly pulled out a handkerchief to cough into. She glanced at it, then closed it up, but I still saw the spot of crimson.

"These are desperate times, after all."

I stared at her as I placed my hand on hers. "Mother, you are not well. You shouldn't travel."

She attempted a laugh, but it soon turned into a violent coughing fit. "No...I'm fine, really."

"Mother..." I placed my hands on her shoulders and whispered into her hair. "Please, stay here. You need rest. I promise I will behave."

She looked back at me, uncertainty clear in her eyes and after a moment, a smile twitched at her lips. "Oh...alright."

I gave another smile. "Tanaka!" I looked back as I caught sight of the head butler walking towards us.

"You called, sir?"

"Tanaka, please take my mother to her bed to rest and attend to her every need."

He placed his hand over his heart and bowed his head.

"As you wish, my young lord." He turned towards mother. "Madame? If you please."

She started walking but looked back at me.

"Please come back in time for tonight's ball, you can't show up late to your own party."

‘My party. Yes, I would hate to not attend something as special as that. It's not like I've gotten used to the several balls we throw every week.’

"I promise, I will return in time."

With a smile, I watched her disappear with Tanaka, and only then did it drop.

. . .

"Well, well, well, Vincent Phantomhive."

The smile returned.

"Lord Jeffries."

He let out a belt of laughter as he shook my hand.

"Come now, call me George!"

No formalities. That is stage one.

"I say, where is Claudia? You didn't leave her behind, now did you?"

"I'm afraid mother is unwell, she will not be able to join us this morning."

He chuckled and patted my back.

"And you were willing to travel alone so she could rest. Ha! Good lad, we need more young men like you around here. Teenagers are more after petty greed for money these days."

‘Flattery. Already in stage 2, I see.’

"Come."

He gestured towards the two chairs at a small table where a tea set rested. We both sat and I could immediately tell exactly what his intentions were. He could have pretended to care about mother, at the least.

"Now, I've been hearing an awful lot of rumors about you having a little finance problem?"

My shoulders gave a small shrug.

"If you've been hearing it a lot, then it must be true."

"Ha-ha! I knew-- "

It was then that I caught sight of a maid fastly walking up to the table and picking up the pot of tea. Her hair covered her face as she focused on pouring the tea, but I could still see a hint of red on her cheeks.

Once she finished, she turned to walk away.

"Eliza!" His fist banged on the table as she flinched.

"Y-Yes, master?"

"Scones, Eliza, now!", He barked and she jumped before scurrying off. However, she tripped over a patch of grass and as she fell, the pot flew from her hand and its contents, well...over me and my shirt.

Jeffries's eyes widened as he stood from the table.

"Lord Phantomhive! Oh my, your clothes!"

I looked down at the maid.

"Are you all right?"

She kept her head down as she sat on all fours.

"Y-yes, oh Lord Phantomhive, I'm so sorry, i-i didn't mean to-- "

"It's all right." I held out a hand, which she hesitantly took and stood up.

She bowed her head in shame, a few black strands standing up from the friction.

"I'm so sorry, my lord, please, it was an acci--"

I chuckled. "I said it's all right."

She slowly looked up at me with surprise. And that's when I noticed her red eyes. And, well...they were beautiful.

"Eliza! You useless...!" He slammed his fist on the table and she once again flinched. "Clean this up, now!"

"Yes, master! I am so sorry, master!"

And with that, she fastly walked away from the table.

"Vincent, I apologize for that insufferable maid! What a useless little—"

"You treat your servants all this way?"

He froze up. "What?"

"You yell at them, and by your maid's bodily instincts, it appears you use violence upon them. You are a terrible master." I turned a glare towards him. "Honestly, what kind of man would treat his servants so poorly?"

"U-um, I..."

"No man would. You, Lord Jeffries, are no man in my eyes."

He sneered. "How dare you!"

"So I see no reason to speak with something less of a man, I believe I shall take my leave." I stood up and turned to walk away.

"Wait! Phantomhive!"

‘Desperation. Stage three.’

I stopped.

"Please, forgive me. I do hope you can look past this...?"

I sighed. "Only if you remember the manners of a gentleman, shall I then see you as one. It's not a good sign when an 18-year-old is more polite and mature than you. Good day, Lord Jeffries."

I heard his voice as I walked back towards the front of his mansion. "Good day, Lord Phantomhive! I'll see you tonight at your ball, eh?"

‘Oh, right. The ball.’

. . .

Tanaka's eyes widened once I stepped out of the carriage.

"Good lord, your clothes! Are you all right, sir?"

I heavily sighed. "It was only an accident. Don't tell mother."

He chuckled. "Such a troublemaker, you are."

I cracked a smile, but then, it dropped as fast as it came.

"How is she?"

His smile faltered. "Not well, I'm afraid. While you were away, the doctor came by to check on her..."

"And?"

Only a frown was present on his face, which only made me nervous.

"What did he say, Tanaka?"

He glanced down at the ground.

"It's become critical, sir. He doesn't have an exact time as to when, but...soon. Very soon, sir."

I was silent. There was truly no words I could say that would make it better. Mother's been sick for over a year, now, she expected death long ago. So, with a small nod, I walked on inside as he followed.

"How are the plans for tonight coming along? I hope there haven't been any complications."

"Everything has been arranged and the staff is setting up the ballroom as we speak. Also, I have your clothes and mask awaiting on your bed."

Mask? I stopped and looked at him.

"A mask? Why would I have a mask? I know we are low on finances, but robbing our guests isn't the way to go, Tanaka."

He smiled. "No, the mask for the ball. Did lady Phantomhive not tell you? The theme is a masquerade ball, to celebrate the many masks of the noble families, and now, as you turn 18, you will be forced to wear a mask of your own."

I rose an eyebrow. "How very...creative. A unique way of describing England's noblemen."

"Yes, it certainly is. You should hurry and get ready, my lord, the party will start in a few hours."

I forced my smile once again.

"Yes, we wouldn't want to keep them waiting, now would we?"

. . .

'Oh Vincent, you silly boy, as a Phantomhive, we must act as expected with elegance, charm, and manners.'

"Hmph. 'As a Phantomhive'? As if our name makes us special, as if it means anything, anymore," I muttered mindlessly to myself as I stared down at the mask in my hand.

It was a simple black mask with a white beaded design on the side of the right eye. It was very elegant, and charming, and not at all inappropriate. No wonder Tanaka chose it.

My head turned towards the door as the sound of violins, piano, and cellos filled the air.

"Well, it sounds like it's starting."

I sighed as I brought my face into my mask and looked up at the mirror.

"Just another night."

. . .

"Ladies and Gentlemen. Please give your warmest welcome to the newest man of the hour, the new head of the Phantomhive family, our Lord Vincent, Earl of Phantomhive!"

The sound of their applause echoed throughout the entire manor, and as I stepped down the stairs towards the center, I saw their true faces hidden beneath their masks. A majority of the girls blushed, men whispered into each other's ears, most likely speaking of how easy it would be to handle the new head, and the women were looking at me with the eyes of a hunter, and me as a prey suitor for their daughters.

I stopped atop the middle staircase.

"Welcome, lovely ladies and fine gentlemen. It is an honor to be praised so highly on a day like this. In return, I offer our fullest Phantomhive hospitality. Please, enjoy yourselves. Eat, drink, dance the night away with an enchanting stranger, and be merry!"

As the audience applauded, I took a bow and walked all the way to the floor of the ballroom, and turned as the less of a man walked towards me while still clapping, a huge smile on his face.

"And here it goes."

Once he came up, he clamped a hand on my shoulder and shook my hand, while I didn't really do any of the shaking.

"Wonderful speech, Lord Phantomhive!"

I looked curiously at the very odd orange and green mask he sported.

"Yes, thank you. Please excuse me."

I turned to leave, but he stopped me by blocking my way.

"Funny man. You don't think I forgot about your rude outburst earlier, did you? How would everyone here think of you if I were to tell them our new head isn't what he seems?"

‘Ah, threatening. Our final stage.’

"Lord Jeffries, you are not the first man I've dealt with, seeking for fame, money, or even suiting. I have a feeling you won't be the last, either. Your threats mean nothing to me, you shall do what you please with them."

I flashed the smile. "Please, enjoy the party." I turned and muttered, "While you still can."

As I moved my foot forward, I felt his hand on my arm.

"You are a fool. You think because these people think so highly of you, you can get away with anything? It doesn't even matter, you barely have enough to feed yourself, how do you plan on being the head of a family that will soon be forgotten? You take what I give you, and don't talk back."

He smiled and patted my shoulder.

"Now, why don't I introduce you to my daughter, eh?"

He turned and called a redhead girl that was chatting with a group of men across the room. She skipped over with a grin.

"Lord Phantomhive, I'd like you to meet--"

As he turned, it was then that he realized I was already gone. He snarled.

"Damn teenagers!"

. . .

I sighed and rubbed the back of my neck as I leaned in one of the hidden corners of the room.

"Sir, p-please, stop!"

My eyes looked forward and I looked around for the source of that voice. I knew that voice.

"Come on, a pretty thing like you, makes me wanna do more than just dance."

"Stop! Please!"

I walked out and caught sight of a man getting grossly close to a girl with curly blonde locks, and a white half of a mask shielding half of her face.

I didn't even know what I was doing before I was standing behind the man and my voice was harsh, which it has never been before.

"I believe the lady said to stop."

"Oh yeah?" He turned around and froze. "L-Lord Phantomhive!"

"Unhand the lady. Now."

He retracted the arm that firmly held her waist and backed away.

"O-of course, my apologies."

I waited until I saw him disappear into the crowd, before turning to the girl who looked as if she would pass out.

"Are you alright?"

She froze once she heard my voice and her head snapped up. That was when I saw her eyes. They were red.

I smiled. "Miss Eliza?"

Her face went pale as she turned and went to make a break for it, but my arm caught her before she could.

"Please, just let me leave. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have come here!"

Her voice cracked out of desperation.

I smiled as she lifted the mask from her face.

"My master doesn't know I'm here. Please, don't tell him."

I continued smiling, but I offered my hand to her.

"You look like you could use a little air."

She stared down at it unsurely. But, she ended up taking it, and with a nod, we left the room to go to the balcony.

. . .

Once we reached the balcony, I shut the doors and let her take a breath.

"I'm sorry."

I chuckled. "You don't need to keep apologizing."

She looked at me with guilt. "I overheard you and my master. I just wanted to apologize for it."

My eyes stayed glued to her face, but then they moved to the sky.

"It's all right, Eliza."

I looked back at her and saw tears pricking her eyes.

"You shouldn't have to do as he says. He's a cruel man."

Once a tear streamed down her cheek, I touched it with my finger and wiped it away.

"No, he's not. He's a coward."

She looked at my finger, then moved away and shook her head.

"I shouldn't be here. I'm keeping you, I'm sure as the host you must attend to your guests."

Something came over me and I found myself walking closer and grabbing her chin to make her look up at me.

"I'd much rather be here with you, than in there. Believe me."

She stared into my eyes with a blush on her cheeks. And...it was like I couldn't control my actions as I glanced at her lips and found myself leaning closer until our lips met.

She tasted so sweet. And I felt her smile widely into the kiss.

A few seconds later, she pulled away and looked down. "Wow..." She breathed out.

I chuckled, but it died down once I saw her lips stretch into a crazed grin.

"That was easier than I thought."

She looked back up at me and my eyes went wide as her red orbs glowed pink and her pupils dilated into slits.

She darkly laughed. "So sorry, Vince."

She grabbed me by the collar and pushed me through the railing. Everything happened far too fast for me to comprehend. As I fell to my death, I saw a strange blackness erupt around her, her teeth turn sharp, her ears pointy, her hair turned a dark raven black and she removed her gloves, revealing black nails that grew out like claws.

Rapid gasps escaped me, its sadistic grin was the last image I saw before everything went black.

. . .

My eyes shot open. I breathed out as I looked around, and I realized I was floating in the air!

A dark laughter echoed in my ears as I saw an endless rain of black feathers surround me.

"Vincent Phantomhive."

My head twisted toward the voice until my sight landed on a black cat sitting in a black tree. But, its eyes—they were red...like that thing!

"What are you?"

It tilted its head.

"Isn't it obvious? I am a servant of hell. I am a demon. You summoned me."

My eyes went wide. "No, I didn't!"

It rolled its eyes.

"Well, it did take me a while to find you, but two days ago, as you screamed yourself to sleep, you did."

"What do you want from me?"

"Sorry, that's my question to ask. You summoned me. So, what is it you want?"

It sat down and flicked its tail. "Greed? Revenge? Money?"

My head snapped up.

"Ah...very well. Make a deal with me, Vincent. And I shall give you all that you desire."

I narrowed my eyes. "And what do you want in return?"

"Hehe, smart and handsome. I like you. The answer is simple. Your soul."

My heart stopped.

"Especially one as desperate as yours, it truly makes you even more delicious."

"Do you plan on feasting on me?"

"No. I'm saving you for something else."

I looked down. Was I really that desperate? Could I be willing to throw away my soul? It didn’t take as much thought as I expected. I looked back up at the cat.

"All right. I'll do it. I want you to make the Phantomhive family rich and known throughout England. I want the queen to remember us and use us as she once did. I want to make sure that my family shall never suffer like my mother ever again! And you will have my soul the minute I die."

The cat's tail froze as its eyes bored into mine.

"Now, you must choose carefully. Should you reject the faith even this once, the gates of paradise will forever be out of your reach."

"If I were a man of faith, I wouldn't be agreeing to this, would I?"

A laugh rang out. "I will ask one more time. Do you wish to form a contract with me?"

My eyes narrowed. "I do! Do we have a deal?"

The black feathers all lifted up and swirled around. Through them, I saw a shape of a woman. In a matter of seconds, the feathers disappeared. I looked around, and I was back at our manor. But, as I looked in front of me, there stood a woman in a maid's uniform with black hair and those red eyes.

"You have agreed to a contract. Now, what shall my name be?" She smiled.

"Your name?"

"Yes. Pick wisely, know the moment you mutter my new name, I will be reborn as yours and yours alone."

I looked her up and down and said the first name I thought of.

"Isabella."

Her smile widened.

"Interesting. Isabella. From now until your death, I will be Isabella."

"Brieris. Isabella Brieris."

"Good." Her smile dropped. "Where would you like it?"

"What?"

"Our contract mark. The more visible it is, the more powerful and stronger our bond will be. Where would you like it?"

"Um..."

I looked at my hands, to my neck. My eye? No, too obvious and irritating. I rubbed the back of my neck as I thought. Wait, that's it.

"My neck."

"Very well," Her voice whispered from behind me, and I didn't even notice she had moved. I felt a sharp pain in the center of my neck.

"Sleep now, master. I will see you when you wake...my lord."

#vincent phantomhive #Black Butler x reader #black butler fanfiction

36 notes · View notes

madamebaggio · 5 years

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Is that duet finally happening?

In the last weeks there has been a lot of talk of a supposed duet between pop princess Sansa Stark and Camelot’s frontman Arthur Pendragon. The agents of both artists have repeatedly denied those rumors, but perhaps we’ve been played. Sansa Stark was spotted yesterday leaving the studio where Camelot is supposedly working on a new album. It was clear the popstar was trying to pass by unnoticed, but we have the pictures to prove. So the question remains: is that duet finally coming along?

Chapter 8

Four days after the Grammy, Sansa had just finished rehearsals when her phone rang and Arthur’s name -she’d saved his number, to Shae’s delight -flashed on screen.

She was smiling like an idiot when she answered it. “Well, I expected I’d regret giving you my number, I just didn’t think it’d be this fast.”

“Very funny, Stark.” He drawled. “How is your extremely busy schedule going?”

She thought of all the rehearsals and interviews she had scheduled. “Extremely busy.”

“Can you spare one hour?” He pressed.

“What for?”

“To come to a studio.”

That gave her pause. “Is this that duet story?”

He hummed. “Not at this time.”

Honestly, that man. Not at this time? What was that even supposed to mean?

“Can you imagine the reactions if we’re seen together at a studio?” She asked instead.

“Then sneak in. Sneak in to see the bad boy.” He paused. “Oh I like that. I’ve always wanted to corrupt a good girl.”

She laughed. “You’re ridiculous, Pendragon.”

She could picture his grin perfectly. “Does this mean you’re coming?”

She didn’t even have to question herself. “Yes. Make it worth my while.”

“I will, Red.” His voice was full of promise. “When are you free?”

XxX

Sansa’s schedule was insane since she won her Grammys, so it took a while to find a date to go to the studio.

Brienne wasn’t happy with this at all, specially because they had no idea what Arthur was up to.

When the day finally came, Sansa put her most inconspicuous attire and went to the address Arthur had provided.

She was received at the door by Bedivere, Camelot’s agent. “Miss Stark.”

“Hello.” She felt embarrassed for some reason.

“He’s waiting for you down here. Follow me.”

Sansa nodded and went after him.

“Does he annoy you too much?” She asked, because Bedivere seemed so serious and sensible, and Arthur… Was Arthur.

Bedivere chuckled. “Less than he did a few years back. But, at this point, I’m not about to leave the kid.”

She gave him a smile as he stopped in front of a door. “In you go.”

“Thank you.”

It was a recording studio. Arthur was standing by a piano with sheets of paper on his hand. He hadn’t seen her yet, because he was on the other side of the glass.

“The lad has been waiting the whole day.” Bedivere informed her. “Drove us all mad. Please, save us.”

She laughed a bit awkwardly and went ahead. When he heard the door he looked up and opened a huge smile. “Red.”

“We’re not that close yet, Pendragon.” She told him dryly.

“I’ll hold on to that yet.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her.

She snorted. “You got me here. What do you have for me?”

Just like that, his cocky attitude seemed to disappear. Sansa watched in wonder as he got… Was he getting shy now?

“Right.” He cleared his throat. “I wrote a song, and…” He scratched the back of his head. “It’s for you. If you want it, of course.”

Sansa wasn’t expecting that. “You wrote a song and want to give it to me?” She was bewildered.

“I wrote it for you.” He clarified, looking distinctly uncomfortable. “It’s meant to be sung by you.”

“You…” Sansa was frozen, caught between shock and elation, and just plain amazement. “You wrote it for me?”

“Yes.”

“I…” She felt her face heating up. “I don’t… Thank you.”

“You might wanna see it before you thank me.”

“Arthur.” She called softly. “Thank you.”

He just nodded and passed the papers to her.

Sansa read the title. “Porcelain, Ivory, Steel.” She hummed. “It sounds intense.”

“Shut up and sit.” He pointed at the piano, clearly embarrassed.

XxX

As Sansa sat and tested a few keys on the piano, Arthur became acutely aware that this was the first time they were actually alone.

They’d met in person only a handful of times and it was never in a place where they could talk alone.

He had Sansa Stark all to himself.

Arthur wondered if he’d screw this up. He used to mess a lot of things up back in the day. He couldn’t go one day without getting into a fight, trying to prove himself to some invisible power.

Even music, something he’d always loved, was more an excuse to go to pubs, to show how fucking good he was, and -eventually -fight.

Fortunately Bedivere found him and slapped him on the back of the head. Repeatedly.

However, that old voice of insecurity was whispering to him again, letting him know that she was way too much for him. Sansa Stark deserved way better than him and his stupid songs.

“How do you want to do this?” Sansa asked, turning to him.

“Hum?” Arthur’s head snapped in her direction.

“Earth to Arthur.” Sansa smiled at him. “Are you here with me?”

“Yeah, sure.” He cleared his throat. “How about you play and I sing it, at first?”

“Works for me.” She turned back to her music sheet.

Arthur cleared his throat and waited for her to start. Once she did, he focused on his part. This song wasn’t made with his pitch in mind, so it took some adapting for him to sing it.

Once it was over, Arthur waited for Sansa to say something, but she remained silent, staring at her hands on her lap.

Oh fuck.

“Sansa?” He called, slightly concerned. Had she hated it? “Sansa?”

She took a deep breath before turning to him, her eyes misty with tears. “You really wrote this for me?”

“Yeah.”

She gave a watery laughter. “I love it. I truly do.”

“Fuck, Stark, you almost killed me here.” He chuckled, a lot of tension leaving his body. “You weren’t supposed to cry.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No, Red. I’m not upset.” He hurried to say, then he raised his hand and wiped a stray tear. “Not if these are happy tears. I’m glad you liked it. It’s all yours.”

“Thank you.” She told him heartfeltly. “What you did… Honestly, I have no words.”

“I’m fine with ‘thank you’. Maybe one ‘I completely forgive you’...” He teased.

Sansa laughed. “So all of this is for my forgiveness?”

“Red… What did I tell you about paying attention?”

Sansa bit her lower lip. “Yes… I promise I’m paying attention now.” She cleared her throat. “My turn?”

“Please.” He indicated the piano.

She started playing again and this time he let her sing on her own, and just watched.

And as he watched her there, so close, singing the song he wrote just for her, Arthur felt his heart growing so big he feared it might not fit his chest anymore.

If he was in love before, he had no idea what to call this feeling right now.

XxX

Sansa couldn’t believe he’d written her a song. It wa the most ridiculous thing someone had ever done for her.

And it was freaking perfect. The lyrics, the melody… She couldn’t love it anymore if she tried.

What was this man doing to her?

Once she sang it alone, they discussed some changes in a few parts to suit her voice better.

They worked on it for the whole hour she had, but then she needed to leave.

Arthur walked her to the door. “Thank you for coming, Sansa.”

“Are you kidding? Thank you for the song.”

He shrugged. “It was my pleasure.”

“Can I remix it? Make it dancey?” She teased.

“I swear to God, Stark, you turn this into a pop song, my next album will be exclusively of covers from your first.” He fake growled at her, making her laugh again.

It was ridiculous how much this man was making her laugh.

“It might be worth it just to see you trying.” She grinned at him.

“Cruel woman.” He sighed dramatically.

They stood there in silence, just looking at each other for a minute. Strangely, it didn’t feel weird doing it.

Sansa shook her head. “I have to go.”

“Don’t be a stranger, Stark.” He told her.

“I won’t.” She promised him.

Sansa wasn’t sure what took over her, but she wanted to hug him, so she just went for it. Since she was taller than most girls, it was easy for her to just throw her arms around his neck.

“Thank you again.” She murmured against his ear.

Arthur seemed surprised, but was quick to hug her back. “Stop thanking me. I did it because I wanted to.”

“Shut up and let me thank you.” She grumbled.

“I’ll just accept it because of the hug.” He hummed, giving her waist a squeeze with his arms.

Sansa snorted, but stayed there for just a minute longer than she should’ve had.

When she finally decided this was probably way too long hug between people that weren’t exactly friends, she pulled back gently.

She didn't actually go that far; her hands were still on his shoulders and his were still on her waist. She was looking into his eyes and he was looking into hers like the world had faded around them

Arthur chuckled. “Goddamnit, I could get lost in those eyes of yours.”

Sansa wasn’t sure if she’d moved first, or if it’d been him; they were so close it might’ve as well been both of them. She just knew that one minute they were looking into each other’s eyes, and -in the next- they were kissing.

She was kissing Arthur Pendragon.

It was soft and tentative and everything she’d never expected from a supposed bad boy, and -exactly because of it -it felt perfect. Her arms went back around his neck and he pulled her tighter against him. There was no hurry in it, just a strange connection that kept pulling them together.

Sansa let go of his neck to put a hand over his heart -it was beating insanely - and Arthur took the moment to cradle her face and kiss her deeper and sweeter. She hadn’t been kissed in a while, but Sansa didn’t remember it ever being like this before.

When they parted, they were both breathing irregularly.

“I…” Suddenly she felt incredibly awkward.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to…” Arthur cleared his throat. “I wasn’t planning on kissing you just like this.”

“It’s okay.” Sansa took a step back, feeling overwhelmed. “I need to go.”

“Sansa, wait.” Arthur asked, but didn’t grab or crowd her. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” She took another step back. “Thank you for the song.”

Arthur was looking a bit unsure then. “Are you sure?”

She gave him a weak smile. “I’ll talk to you later.” She just said, as she turned and -basically -fled the scene.

She heard him calling her name one more time, but she was too scared to turn.

OMG.

******

Notes: THEY KISSED!! *screams*

I hope you guys enjoyed it. I was grinning like an idiot as I wrote this.

Also, the song I had in mind this whole time for Sansa’s song is from a band called Halestorm, “Break In”. It isn’t the same song, just something along those lines. Anyway, it’s a beautiful song, you should listen to it.

Two chapters to the end. Sansa and Arthur will see each other in the next one.

Let me know your feelings.

#madame baggio #fanfiction #CrossOver #Crossover Pairings #modern au #game of thrones #king arthur legend of the sword #Sansa Stark #Arthur Pendragon #Sansa x Arthur #theres no way

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liw-the-melancholic-apple · 4 years

Text

How it may have gone - Humble Beginnings

A fic taking place in the marauders era. While the political climate seems to head to a conflict, James, Sirius, Remus and Peter are still just teenagers. Dealing with typical teenage problems.

But this year their little group grows. Who would have known that more prefects would be a good thing?

Masterlist

Five: December III

I had gotten off the nightshift on a Monday and only existed physically that Tuesday morning. My state was even worse than that fateful Saturday in November. Was I aware that people were around me and that they talked? Yes. But that was it.

“Jette!” I jumped.

“Yeah?”

“Please, drink the coffee. I’m afraid that you’re gonna die otherwise.” Was that Chloe’s voice? Chloe’s hand held a giant mug in front of my face. I was still contemplating whether I had the energy to reach for it, when another hand took it from Chloe. As I was not capable of moving my head to my left I had no idea who had stolen my coffee. There was a scent of leather and citrus, though.

“You know you have to go to classes, right?” Oh, leather and citrus, of course that meant Black.

“Huh.”

“I still got that pepper-up potion, if you want it.” He chuted a little closer and spoke into my ear: “I think you’d want to be up and awake, Goods, I got something to tell you.” His voice was a lot lower than normal. It suited him.

“Wha?”

He sighed. Then my coffee reappeared in front of my face.

“Just drink that.” I did. The listening and talking had made me even more tired and I needed caffeine. The first gulp I took was huge and wonderful. It warmed me up from the inside out, made me sit up straight, let the white noise become actual conversations around me and had me open my eyes fully. The second big gulp took away all residue of exhaustion. I felt amazing. I felt great. I felt like I could take on the world. It was wonderful.

“Black!”, I yelled in my most aggressive voice.

“Yes, dear?”, he chirped back, sliding across the bench away as far as possible.

“Did you just drug me?” A lot of heads turned our way and Potter, who sat on the other side of the table casually pointed at my coffee mug and then at my messy hair and prefect badge. That was enough for most of the heads to turn back to their breakfast.

Black kept his distance but dared to smirk at me.

“Technically, I didn’t. Pepper-up potion is not considered a healing treatment and it’s not on the list of explicitly forbidden potions to be taken on the premises or in classes. So, I wanna say: No, I did not drug you.” I whacked him over the head with Nica’s Daily Prophet.

“Are there any side effects to this thing?” Black shook his head. I looked at Remus. He shook his head.

“Ugh, thank you, then”, I said through my teeth. “I feel a lot better.”

“I’m here all week”, Black answered, closing the distance between us. “Can you please, eat something, so you don’t faint, have another cup of coffee and then run outside with me?” He wiggled around on the wooden bench and played with one of the spoons.

“What’s with you?” I reached for the scones and the apple syrup.

“I have something very interesting to tell you and I’d rather do it without your best friend present…”

“Ouh!”, I shouted way too loud and Black nodded. “Ouh!”, I made again and stuffed my face with two scones as quickly as possible. I grabbed a banana off the table to throw in my bag and got up. Black had already excused himself and left.

“Folks, that potion got me all energised, I can’t sit still. Meet me outside in a bit?”

“Sure!”

I accented my rushing to and out the door and turned to the foyer. Black leaned against one of the winged boars on the first step outside the doors.

“Finally!”

“Tell. Me. Everything!”

He took my arm and dragged me to our passage And out of the snow, already talking.

“Okay, so it’s nothing super huge but it’s news.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, spill it!”

“So, yesterday evening I can’t sleep and I go down to the common room thinking I just read a bit and then fall asleep there, right? But I haven’t even sat down and I hear a door and I hear steps and down walks Remus, right?”

“Right.”

“He sits down next to me and looks at me and he goes ‘Can’t sleep either?’ and I go ‘ Nah, can’t sleep.’ Right? And he asks me whether I’m thinking about Slughorn’s party. And I wasn’t but he didn’t want me to answer anyway, so I didn’t say anything, right? And just like I thought he just starts talking!” Black had to stop and breathe for a moment as he said all of that in pretty much one go.

“Okay, let me not be a twelve-year-old-girl about this. I’m Sirius Black. I don’t get girly.”

“By all means, take your time”, I laughed.

“Point is: Remus was thinking about Slughorn’s party and that’s why he couldn’t sleep. I asked him why that thing would make him lose sleep. He’s been to that party ever since second year. And he says that he was thinking about the fact that both, James and Peter had dates for the party – thanks again for that – and he didn’t.”

“You don’t either, do you?”

“No, but that’s no news. I don’t do dates.”

“Right, sorry. Continue. Remus was thinking he needed a date.”

“No, Remus said he was thinking that he needed a date. Look, he came up with a whole story about being the odd one out and the one nobody wanted.”

“Oh, Remus. He isn’t the odd one out.”

“That’s what I thought, too. At first. But then he got into how Peter was going with you and James was going with Nica and how I would probably end up hanging out with you girls and if I thought he could ask one of the other two, or if that would be weird.”

“Ahhhh”

“Ahh is right. Of course, I said that it wouldn’t be weird and that Blair would probably be delighted to be asked out.”

“She would”, I got sidetracked for a second and gave him an intense look to make him ask her but he ignored that.

“That was not what he wanted to hear. Obviously he wanted to ask Milla, right? So, he asked me if Blair came to my mind because Milla had some hot date nobody had told him about. And he wanted to sound casual and only mildly offended but there was panic in his voice. Panic, Goods!” His eyes widened and he gave me the brightest smile I’d ever seen him wear.

“You know what that means, right? He’s into her!”

“Sounds like it, yeah”, I grinned. “Now if we only could get him to ask Milla out…”

“Would she say yes?”

“I reckon she would.”

“This is so great!”

“I didn’t know that you were such a softie and romantic, Black.”

“Full of surprises, Goods, full of surprises”, he smirked, back to his mysterious heartbreaking ways.

“If you were not going to the Slug Party with Peter, I’d think you two were planning a date!”, Potter had crept up on us, his friends and mine in tow.

“Well, isn’t it funny you should say that?”, Black answered lighting Potter’s fag.

While those two got into discussing my secret talks with Black my attention went to Remus and Milla who found themselves standing next to one another once again, smiling and joking and flirting in that awkward manner that only they could manage. Milla saw me look over and stuck out her tongue. I was going to say something but a waving hand and blond curls distracted me. Never before had Crick joined our after-meal-dates. But there’s a first time for everything.

We greeted him and then all just stared at him, waiting to hear why he had followed us.

“Tea, can I talk to you, for a second?”, he asked after a weird quiet moment. I let him lead me quite a bit away from the rest of my friends.

“Toby and I were just talking about the Christmas Party”, he started when we stood at the other end of the passage. “ And I wanted to know whether you girls are gonna show up in a pack again or whether you need some gentleman to accompany you.”

“Oh, how sweet. Thanks, Crick! But I’m well taken care of.”

“Girls’ night?”

“No. I’m going with Pettigrew, actually.”

“Sorry?!”

“He didn’t get invited. Potter is taking Nica, so she can come, Chloe goes with Mag and I’m taking Pettigrew. That way we’ll all be there.”

“You’re too good of a person. Don’t let him take advantage of that!”

“I honestly don’t think he will.” We stood in silence a bit.

“You’re still going stag, then?”

“Looks like it.”

“Crick, would you maybe take Blair?”

“What?”

“She seems insecure, lately. Maybe it’s beause Chloe, Nica and I have a date to the party – however platonic – and Milla is this close to dating Remus. I haven’t talked to her yet but I think getting to go out with one of the most handsome guys in school would give her a boost.” I bit my lip while waiting for his answer. He didn’t give me one. Instead he walked back to the group and left me standing alone. When I ran after him I heard him explain that he had talked to me about Felix. Liar. He participated in the conversation for a bit and then turned to Blair.

“Blair, you’re going to Slug’s Party, right?”

“Yes, I am.”

“Do you insist on going alone or would you do me the honours of letting me take you?”

“Are you serious?”, she asked back.

“No, that’s him”, Pettigrew cut in and earned some smiles.

“Of course I am. What d’you think?”

“Sounds like fun.” Blair said a little faster than usual and blushed the tiniest bit. I could already tell that she would be happy and bouncy all day long. Crick was a good lad.

“Thank you. Thank you very much”, I whispered when he walked back to the castle for first period.

In the foyer I had Black assure me again that there would be no side-effects to the potion he had slipped me, then we parted ways.

The dungeons were as gloomy as ever, when we arrived for potions. Slughorn instructed us to turn to page 217 of our books and brew him a batch of Instaurabo-Juice. According to the textbook if brewed correctly the potion would be able to heal small and superficial injuries to the skin.

I partnered with Chloe and prepared the cauldron and the fire while she collected the ingredients. Potions was not my thing. I was a lot better at Charms and Defence against the Dark Arts. For some reason the science behind the brewing of potions was too much for me. It was all too precise. Chloe didn’t mind any of this and usually took care of the actual brewing while I prepared the roots and beasts to throw into the cauldron.

Once I had my violet flame going I filled the cauldron to a third with ice cold water and put it on the fire. Chloe gave me a nod and I started chopping up the mint leaves. Slowly but steadily I worked my way through arnica roots, Himalayan salt, cactus fig, silkworms, narcilan (which looked like ginger), garlic cloves, giant butterflies and fire ants. I chopped, cut, pulverised, quartered and strained, while Chloe grabbed what she needed, gingerly placed it in the water, moved her wand counterclockwise, clockwise and up and down and stirred the potion every now and then.

Halfway through the class I took a look at our cauldron, which now bubbled very happily in a pretty pale blue colour. According to my book this was absolutely right. After Chloe put in the twentythree fire ants one by one our Juice turned gelatinous. The instructions said to let it simmer for twenty minutes on a yellow flame. I pulled out my wand for the second time this class, charmed the flame into a yellow, cooler version of itself and turned to Chloe who was already checking with Milla and Joe and Blair and Nica. Milla signalled that she would need two more minutes, while Blair and Nica came over immediately.

“This weekend is Hogsmeade!”, Nica chirped. “Are we gonna go dress shopping or what?”

“I intended to wait for Milla to discuss that”, Chloe answered.

“Milla says we go dress shopping.” Milla had walked up and left Joe in charge of her potion.

“I need one anyways, I don’t think I have one.”

“What did you wear last year?”, Nica wanted to know.

“Pantsuit of my mums.”

“Why not wear it again this year?” Milla shot me an annoyed look. She had purposefully avoided me since I watched her and Remus in the courtyard.

“I’ve heard one shouldn’t recycle one’s outfits”, she snapped.

“What about you then, Jette, Chloe, Blair?”

“Sure, why not?”

We decided to have an early breakfast on Saturday morning and head to the village right after. There would be a lot of girls who wanted to get a dress that weekend and we wanted to be the first in our favourite shop. We had discovered it on our second ever weekend to Hogsmeade and fallen in love with it right away. It carried clothes that weren’t in style or trendy and it had everything from jeans to haute couture. The most amazing things.

And although there weren’t normally more than three other girls in the shop besides us, we knew that when it came to formal wear most girls would go there.

Getting up on a Saturday at six in the morning was not my idea of fun. I moaned and groaned and cussed while I took a shower, brushed my teeth and got dressed, but I made it to the common room by half past six. Breakfast was served from seven o’clock onwards and we had decided to be the first in the Great Hall and the first out the door.

The half hour in the common room was supposed to be spent on planning what we wanted to get and which options we had after Warrington’s Whimsical Wardrobes didn’t provide all five of us with a perfect dress.

We all wrote lists of what we thought we needed – dress, shoes, tights, accessories – and jotted down a couple of notes on style or colour because we knew that the employees of WWW knew how to work with those. At seven o’ clock sharp we stood in front of the doors of the Great Hall and watched how they opened for the first time that day. We were the only Hufflepuffs who had decided to get up this early, and, like on the mornings after my nightshifts, most other students who were present were first and second years who hadn’t discovered the beauty of sleep yet.

We all went for a quick breakfast of coffee and tea with marmalade toast but stuffed our bags with muffins, scones and raisin rolls. It took us less than fifteen minutes to leave the House table and report to Mr Filch to leave the grounds. He rolled his eyes at our giggling but let us go right away. We crossed the grounds, passed Hagrid’s hut, the greenhouses and the black lake, then reached the giant iron gates with the winged boars that cut Hogwarts off from the rest of the world.

From there we turned right and followed the badly maintained road that took us through a small forest and to the west of Hogsmeade. The landscape around us looked like a set for a Christmas film. White untouched snow on the ground, the few buildings we could see and the treetops. The sun was shining and made everything glisten and shine and we even spotted a family of deer on one of the fields. It was idyllic.

Snacking on our scones we arrived in the village. Hogwarts lay to its West but WWW was in the South-East. After the forty minute walk we were all longing for something to drink and since we knew that we would come past the Broomsticks we popped in very quickly got some pumpkin-juice bottles to take with us. Another ten minutes later we stood in front of Warrington’s Whimsical Wardrobes.

The building was one of the original houses and looked like it came straight out of a muggle fairytale. On the inside it was all white walls and ebony beams behind shelves or cupboards and tables made from dark wood. All the furniture was overflowing with robes, trousers and jumpers while the tallest wall in the back of the shop was decorated with layers and layers of dressrobes and dresses.

Dionysus Warrington scurried towards us through the mountains of clothes. “Ladies, ladies, you are so early!” He came to a halt in front of us, his giant strawberry blond moustache bobbing up and down.

“Good Morning, Mr Warrington”, Blair said extending her hand

“How often do I have to tell you to call me Dionysus, Blair? Or Dio?” His furry eyebrows met at the root of nose and he had raised his index finger at her.

“I’m sorry, Dionysus. Old habits…”

“How can I help you ladies this beautiful morning?”

“Well, Dio, Professor Slughorn’s Christmas party is next weekend”, Nica answered.

“Oh, and you were hoping that old Dio had some lovely dresses for you gorgeous lot?”

“Exactly”, Blair laughed.

Dio called for his employees, two women of his age and a young man probably in his twenties.

“Now, Gerda why don’t you help out Miss Blair, Trudy you take on Miss Nica, Blake will find Miss Chloe a dress and you two”, he pointed at Milla and me “will be all mine. Lists!” We all handed our parchments to our respective dressfinders and were complimented on being well prepared. My personal opinion was that we had just been trained well by Dio and Gerda over the last years. But I kept that to myself.

“Non-girly pink? Care to explain that to me Milla?” Dio gestured at two arm chairs and we plummeted into them.

“You see, I’d love something pink but I would like to not look like a four-year-old.” We answered a couple of questions about our wishes and then were treated to a cup of tea while Dio looked through his giant wall of dresses. On the other side of the wall Nica and Chloe sat in their own chairs while Blake got them tea and Trudy studied the wall. Blair and Gerda were nowhere to be seen.

When Dio came back he was hidden behind a mountain of dresses.

“To the dressing rooms, ladies”, he huffed and led the way.

Milla was drowned in some pale pink floor length dresses and a bit of pale purple. I was given a lot of black.

“Dio, I know that my list says simple and dark, but these all look a bit too funeral for me”, I shyly said.

“Thought you’d say that! Try this one first.”

He handed me a dark grey dress with a thin burgundy checker pattern on it. It was a mini cocktail dress that hit me just above the knees and came with a matching bolero. I instantly loved it. It was my colours elevated to Slughorn Party level.

“Dio you’re a genius!”, I screamed and jumped at him. “This is amazing! Please tell me that I can afford it!” Dio laughed his guttural sealion laugh. “Of course you can afford it, dear. Just put it back on the hanger and I’ll check you out when Milla is done, too.”

This was one of the best shopping experiences I had ever had. The first dress I tried on was the one I fell in love with. If only everything could be this easy.

Milla still sorted through her dresses.

“What about the lilac one?”, I asked watching her. One of the dresses in her pile was a very pale lilac and made out of satin. It was a structured minidress, looked like it would be very tight and too grown-up to remind anyone of a barbiedoll. Besides, I thought to myself, it would look amazing with her light blond hair and blue eyes.

Milla put it on her try-on-pile together with a powderpink long dress and a white one with pink flowers on it. Then she shooed me away.

Nica was trying on a wrap dress in mint green with a paisley pattern that made her eyes pop like I had never seen before. I gave her a huge smile and thumbs up but she waved her hand.

“It’s not sexy enough!”

Chloe looked at two dresses in the exact same shape, one being champagne in colour, the other gold. Both of them looked like she could walk a red carpet in them. She told me that she hadn’t tried them on yet, because she couldn’t decide which one she liked better.

“Start with this one”, said Blake and handed her the gold. “I think you’ll end up wanting the champagne one, so start with the gold so you can be sure of the other one.” He ordered her into the dressing room and she rolled her eyes while waving at me.

“Would you mind coming with me for a minute?” I hadn’t even noticed that Gerda stood next to me.

“Of course. What’s up?”

“Miss Blair doesn’t want to come out of the dressing room… I think she might be crying. I’ve raised three sons”, she nodded in Blake’s direction. “and I can talk to customers about insecurities but I have no idea how to talk to fifteen year old girls. Could you try?” Her narrow eyes begged me to help her out and I followed her to the very last dressing room.

She was right. Blair was crying. I could hear her sniffle behind the purple curtain.

“Blair? Are you alright, love?” No answer, only more sniffling.

“Okay I’m coming in there.”

I pulled the curtain back a bit and stepped into the spacious little room. To my left there hung a lot of beautiful floorlength flowy dresses, reminiscent of the flower power movement. To the right I saw Blairs jacket and her jumper and jeans hanging on the hooks. Right in front of me was the big mirror and in the right hand corner on the little wooden stomp sat Blair, her head in her hands, long dirty blond hair covering her face. She was in her underwear, a red dress lying on the floor.

“Love, what’s up?” I crouched in front of her.

“Take an educated guess!”, she hissed which was very unlike her. I thought for a second. I didn’t want to upset her more.

“It looks like that dress did something to you”, I said slowly. Her head shot up and I saw the traces that her tears had drawn in her make up. I reached out to hug her but she slapped my arms away.

“Why did I even agree to come?!”, she shouted. Again this was very unlike her. Even when she was annoyed she wouldn’t raise her voice.

“What do you mean, Blair?”

“I knew I would freak out as soon as I had to try on these stupid gowns! Especially, next to all of you stickthin dreamgirls!” She kicked the red dress further away and buried her head in her hands again.

I watched her as I processed what she had just said. I wouldn’t describe any of us as stick thin. Milla and Nica were athletic. All the rigorous quidditch training Sian put them through had defined every muscle in their bodies. Just last night I had complained about the fact that Nica had a very defined six-pack although she never explicitly trained her abs.

Chloe and I weren’t as athletic but we were indeed both on the smaller side when it came to clothes sizes. The four of us would raid each other’s wardrobes regularly when we felt that we had nothing to wear.

Blair never joined in that fun. She was by no means overweight but she did weigh more than we did and probably wore clothes two sizes bigger than ours. I never thought that this bothered her. Personally, I had never thought about the differences in our appearances. I loved Blair, whether she had wider hips than me, or not. But apparently, for her the differences in how we looked were a huge deal.

“Blair”, I started. “I had no idea that… Why would you feel bad trying on dresses?”

“Are you joking? I look ridiculous next to you!”

“No, you don’t.” I grabbed the red dress from the floor and held it up. “None of us could wear this dress, d’you realise that?” She rolled her eyes at me. “I mean it, Blair. None of us have the boobs to fill this neckline out. We’ d either look like little boys or run around with our tits out all evening.” I earned the smallest of smiles.

“But you actually have a chest. I bet you’ll look like a goddamn sexbomb in a neckline like this.”

I moved over to the other dresses and found one in midnight blue. It, too, had a deep V-neck but other than the red one it also had puff sleeves and a beautiful golden belt at the waist. The skirt was a-lined and had a single golden threat woven through it.

“Or this one! Really! I love how it looks but I could never wear it.” Blair rolled her eyes at me.

“Yes you could and you’d look great.” She still sounded very defeated.

“No, I wouldn’t. And I’ll prove it to you. Go get a cup of tea and I’ll try this one on.”

“It’ll be way too big for you.” Blair was close to crying again.

“Then, I’ll ask Gerda to find it in my size.” I pushed her out of the dressing room and into a chair. Gerda instantly came running to us and asked if she could do anything for us. I told her what we needed and she bustled about at the wall of dressrobes.

It didn’t take her long to find the dress and while Blair seemed to calm down slurping her tea, I took of my jeans, jumper and scarf again. The dress was absolutely gorgeous. But when I stepped back out behind the curtain I felt very uncomfortable. Blair screamed laughing when she saw that I had to hold up the dress with both hands and it still revealed my bra.

“Now you try it!”, I demanded, hoping to use the momentum of positivity. And she did.

“Blair, I told you! You look like one of these girls who only have to bat their eyes in order to be bought diamonds!”, I yelled ecstatically and I saw her smile.

“It looks better on me than you”, she admitted.

“Finally!”

Gerda padded me on the back and mouthed a thank you, while offering me another cup of tea.

“What would you like to do, dear”, she then asked Blair.

“I’d like to buy this dress, Gerda. It makes me feel good. Let’s not ruin that by trying other gowns.”

“As you wish!”

We both changed into our own clothes again. When I was putting on my shoes, Blair pulled back the curtains. “Jette?”

“Huh?”

“Can we not tell the others about my breaking down in here?” Her eyes were enormous.

“Sure. My lips are sealed.”

She hugged me tightly and for a long time, then I got to lace up my black boots.

We all had gotten our dresses for the party at Warrington’s, thanked Dio once more and left the shop before anybody else had entered it.

Blair was fairly happy for the rest of the day that we spent shopping for shoes, necklaces and Christmas gifts for our families.

#marauders fanfiction #marauders era #harry potter #james potter #sirius black #remus lupin #peter pettigrew

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