#modeled this a bit after the kitchen in the place we just moved into and what if i convince my family to have a colorful kitchen now haha | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

thoseboysinblue · 5 months

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Mistletoe Magic

Gif by @lovelynikol16

Christian Pulisic x reader

You find yourself caught under the mistletoe with Christian.

Wordcount: 1500+

Requested: No

Warnings: Swearing

You wander up to the door of the house marked by the address Christian sent you earlier. Adjusting your hair slightly and taking a deep breath, you knock on the door and wait for someone to answer.

"Hey you, I'm glad you could make it," Christian engulfs you in a hug, placing a light kiss to your cheek. He accepts the beer and small bag of snacks you brought as a thank you for the invitation.

"Thank you for inviting me," you smile at him as you remove your coat and hang it in the small closet in the entryway of his house.

"I would've invited you to stay if I had known you were going to be in Milan," he narrows his eyes at you.

"It was kind of a last minute change of plans, and I didn't want to impose," you offer him a smile.

"You're never imposing, you know you're always welcome to stay anytime, y/n," he says as he leads you into the kitchen, you noticing the traditional Christmas decor scattered around.

Your job as a travel blogger means that you hop around quite a bit. You'd stayed with Christian several times in London since it was a good starting out point for many of your adventures, but you haven't visited him in Italy until now.

"So what brings you to Italy for the holidays?" he asks, pouring you a glass of wine while he opens a beer.

"I'm writing something on Christmas markets," you shrug at him, "I wasn't supposed to come here actually, but needed to make some alterations due to a few things, so here I am."

"Well, you know I'm always glad to see you," he smiles, a genuine smile.

Your friendship with Christian started several years ago, right after his move to Chelsea. You both happened to be at the same event one evening in London and found a small bit of comfort in having someone from "home" close by.

You often spent time with him when he was home during the summers, blocking off a week or so from your travels to be able to visit him. You had become friends with several of his friends and things were just easy between you.

You both took a bit of heat for the natural flirtation that seemed to flow back and forth, but never had it gone beyond that. You were friends with him, not someone he grew up with, but someone who had earned his trust over a period of time and vice versa.

"I think you invited me here early because you wanted someone to do the dirty work for you," you chuckle as you arrange various platters of food for the twenty or so guests he had invited over for a small holiday gathering.

"We might have time for some actual dirty work," he quips at you as he glances at the time on his watch.

"Aww, the Italian model scene not to your taste?" you grin as you chunk an grape at him which he somehow manages to catch in his mouth.

"Honestly, I haven't had much time for all that," he shrugs, "been trying to get settled in here and really trying to stay focused right now."

"Well, you seem to be settling in just fine," you smile softly at him as you finish the last tray.

He turns on some Christmas music and grabs your hand and twirls you around a couple of times, both of you laughing as you dance and sing along.

As the other guests start to arrive, Christian introduces you to some of his new teammates as well as their significant others. You also greet his former Chelsea teammates you had met previously as well as his international teammates, a couple of them having made the trip from Turin for the party.

"It's good to see you," Weston grins as he gives you a warm hug.

"Yeah, you too, Wes," you roll your eyes at the mischevious look on his face.

"He made a move yet?" he nods towards Christian who keeps glancing over to you, curious as to what his friend could possibly be saying that has you looking slightly flustered.

"What? No! He would never, you know we aren't like that, at all," you shake your head.

"You sure? I mean, I've never seen two people flirt as relentlessly as you guys do and never take it any further," he narrows his eyes at you.

"Well, that's just how we are, harmless flirtation, that's it," you offer him a beer.

"You spending the holidays here with him though?" he continues pressing you.

"I'm in Milan, writing for my blog, he didn't even know I was here until he saw my story yesterday. I have my own hotel, so no, I'm not 'spending the holidays with him'," you use air quotes to mimic his previous statement.

"That's a shame, I'm sure he'd love unwrapping you as a gift on Christmas morning," he chuckles as you swat at him.

You continue chatting with people as the night carries on, engaging in a few drinking games and you and Christian carrying on your usual flirtatious banter.

You head to the bathroom and when you return, everyone has moved from the kitchen and dining area over to the living room to continue playing party games.

Christian is leaning in the doorway between his living room and kitchen, looking at his phone when you approach him and wrap your arms around his waist and tuck yourself under his arm as he naturally moves to drape it over your shoulder.

"This has been a good party, Chris," you smile up at him, "I've had fun getting to know everyone and catching up with some of the others."

"It has been fun, hasn't it?" he smiles back at you, "I hope Wes hasn't given you too much grief."

"Oh, I can handle him, you don't have to worry about that," you shake your head.

"Oh, I know, if anyone can take him down a notch or two, it's you," he chuckles.

"Hey, you two," you hear Wes shout over everyone, "look up," he grins.

The two of you look up simultaneously, before your eyes widen and meet with Christian's.

"Fuck, I forgot I put that there," he stares at you, suddenly unsure of what he should do.

"Well, I'm pretty sure it's bad luck if you are caught under the mistletoe and don't kiss, so..." you trail off.

"Yeah, I think so too, and I mean, we don't want bad luck following us around do we?" his eyes flick from your eyes down to your lips and back to your eyes.

"But we don't have to, if you don't want to, y/n, I don't want to force you into anything," he looks at you sincerely.

"It's just a kiss under the mistletoe, Christian," you smile softly at him as you move your hands around the back of his neck and inch closer to him.

"It's probably full of nargles, anyways," you grin as he closes the distance and you hear him chuckle under his breath.

"You sure?" he asks one more time, his lips mere millimeters from yours.

You nod and close your eyes, pressing your fingers into the back of his neck and encouraging him to close the gap.

His lips brush against yours softly and timidly, before he slides his hand up to cup your jaw and pull you into him a bit further. You kiss him back, slightly surprised at the immediate butterflies that erupt in your stomach.

The kiss lasts a few more moments before you both pull away and smile shyly at one another.

"About damn time," Wes whistles at you.

It suddenly hits you what just happened, Christian kissed you, albeit somewhat forced by holiday superstition, but he still kissed you, and you kissed him. And you didn't expect to like it as much as you did.

You quickly rush down the hallway and into the first room you find, shutting the door behind you, needing a few minutes to get a grip on everything.

You lean with your back against the door as you take a few deep breaths, closing your eyes and calming yourself before you get too overwhelmed.

You hear a soft knock at the door, "y/n, are you in there," you hear Christian ask quietly.

You turn and open the door, letting him in before quickly closing it behind him.

"Are you ok?" he looks at you, his eyes full of concern, as he moves to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear.

"Yes, no, I don't know," you sigh, leaning into his touch as he cups his hand along your jaw.

"It wasn't supposed to feel like that when you kissed me," you breathe out, "I wasn't supposed to feel anything, it was supposed to be a kiss between friends under the mistletoe, no big deal."

"It wasn't supposed to feel like what?" he asks quietly. "Wasn't supposed to feel like butterflies and fireworks and like your insides were suddenly on fire?"

You look up at him, curious to know if he was telling you he'd had the same unexpected reaction.

"Because, that's what I felt a few minutes ago, and I'm kind of hoping you felt it too," he says leaning his forehead against yours.

"Yes, I felt it too," you close your eyes.

"Want to see if that was just a one time thing?" he whispers against your lips, smiling when you pull him closer to you and connect your lips back to his.

This kiss is different from the first, it's not shy nor timid, it is full of certainty and desire. He kisses you like you are the oxygen he needs to breathe. He runs his tongue along the seam of your lips, silently asking for entrance, and moans softly into your mouth when you allow his tongue to press against yours.

You can't deny he's a good kisser as you sink further into one another, tangling your fingers into the hairs at the nape of his neck, and damn it, he knows what he's doing with his tongue. You have to stop your thoughts from running away with themselves as the two of you allow your hands to roam over one another's bodies, gripping each other as closely as you can.

You pull away from one another breathless and dizzy, a grin spreading on both of your faces.

"Definitely not a one time thing," he chuckles pecking you on the lips again.

"No, I don't think so either," you shake your head.

"So what now?" you ask him, realizing this has just changed everything between you.

"Now, I think we have to go back to the party," he sighs, "but I want you to stay later so we can talk."

"Ok," you nod.

"Would you consider staying the night?" he grins cheekily at you.

"I might, but don't get too far ahead of yourself," you grin back at him.

"No, no, that's not what I meant. I mean I would like for you to stay, and talk, and keep kissing me like that, but we don't have to do anything else until we figure things out," he says quietly, placing another delicate kiss to your lips.

"I think I can handle that," you lean your head against his chest, listening to the way his heart is pounding.

"Ok, so let's figure out a polite way to kick everyone out," he chuckles kissing you one more time before opening the door and ushering you back towards the other guests.

Tag List:

@chilwellspulisic @neverinadream @pulisicsgirl @swimmingismywholelife @lovelynikol16 @nyctophilic0vitnir @lunamelona @tall-tanned-tattoo @lizzypotter14 @xjval @notsoattractivearenti @bracedes @landoslover

#christian pulisic #christian pulisic imagine #christian pulisic fic #christian pulisic fluff #christian pulisic x reader

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slytherinshua · 8 months

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CALM IN THE STORM

genre. fluff. comfort. warnings. crying. thunderstorms. ig anxiety mention? pairing. jungwon x fem!reader. wc. 2k. a/n. happiest birthday to @edensgardenn, this fic is for u ml 🫶 i hope u like it!! ^^

“It’s supposed to rain tonight— are you sure you don’t want me to walk you back now? We can end the study session early.” Jungwon asked from the doorway. You were seated at his desk, filling in a practice test for your chem class.

“No, it’s fine. I want to finish this.” You replied without even glancing away from the page, careful to not disrupt your perfect flow of concentration. After weeks of review and studying, the questions were finally making sense, and you wanted to be sure to get at least a 90% right on the practice test before the real thing in 2 days.

Jungwon wanted to insist, but he also didn’t want to interrupt you. The forecast really was calling for rain, a thunderstorm even. He didn’t like the thought of you walking back home in those conditions, even if it was just a couple blocks away. But, you were also so cutely focused on the piece of paper in front of you, flipping your pencil around to erase and adjust the model of an atom you were drawing.

Jungwon, in general, was timid, and maybe a little bit of a pushover. This definitely showed when he was around you, to the extent that his friends Jake and Sunghoon said that he was positively whipped for you. A little crush was all he was willing to admit to, but deep down he knew he was willing to do practically anything you asked. He liked to see the smile on your face when your plans worked out.

He liked to see you smile because of him.

Jungwon went back into the kitchen to finish cutting up apples as a snack. He knew you were prone to forget to eat when you were focused on something. It was these little habits that he loved to take note of and try to help with.

He arranged the slices of apple with care, lips pursed as he looked at the plate. Then he shook his head and started to rearrange them again before he was satisfied. He was quiet walking back to his bedroom where you were working, making sure that if something broke your concentration, it wouldn't be him.

You smiled and mumbled a small thank you as he placed the plate down— a reaction that Jungwon would never get tired of. As you sighed and stretched your arms to work out the aches from sitting for hours, you first noticed that the apples were arranged in a heart shape around the plate, and that there was a small dollop of peanut butter in the centre of the heart.

“You’re so cheesy…” You whispered with an amused scoff as you bit into the piece of apple.

Jungwon's lips turned up into a giddy smile hearing your whispered comment, but he tried to hide it behind his phone. The room became quiet as you went back to studying and Jungwon started to scroll through his phone on the bed.

You quickly lost track of time as you went back to your notes, and Jungwon slowly dozed off when he got tired of looking at his phone. You finished studying for science and decided to review your unit in social studies before finally calling it a day.

You let out a satisfied sigh. You had been incredibly productive during your study session and the payoff of your effort was an overflowing feeling of confidence when you thought about your upcoming exams. You stood up and stretched, a grin growing on your face at the sight of Jungwon sleeping on the bed.

You crouched beside him, admiring his pretty features even when he was sleeping. You reached out your hand and then hesitated. A piece of hair had fallen over his eye as he shifted slightly and you instinctively wanted to move it back into place. After a little consideration and a warm buzzing feeling growing in your stomach somehow urging you on, you reached forward again, this time gently brushing back the piece of hair to its rightful place.

You smiled— the last moment of peace and calm before a loud strike of thunder made you startle. The sound made you jump and a yelp of surprise escaped your throat. The commotion was loud enough to wake Jungwon up from his slumber. He sat up abruptly, blinking his eyes in shock before asking what happened and if you were okay in a hurried jumble of words.

“I’m okay,” You nodded, a little tense, “I think.”

“Get off the floor.” Jungwon said sheepishly, holding out his hand for you to grab onto to pull yourself up.

You sat next to him and relaxed your shoulders. You should have taken his advice from before and gone home early. You weren’t sure how you were going to walk home in this weather.

“Maybe I can… hail a taxi?” You questioned, glancing out the window to watch the ongoing storm before taking out your phone to check the time. It was already almost midnight. You stood up, “Either way I should try to get home quickly.”

Jungwon grabbed your hand to stop you. “No,” He said sternly, “Being outside during a storm like this isn’t safe.”

“But-” Another loud flash of lightning sounded and you tensed again.

“You hate loud noises, Y/n.” Jungwon reminded quietly, “Wouldn’t it be better if you stay?”

“Stay?! As in sleep over?” Your eyes widened as Jungwon nodded gently.

“I have a guest room for a reason…”

You would've protested if it weren’t for the violent thunder that continued to rage outside. You gave in to Jungwon’s idea, and he started to run around the house to get you everything you could possibly need with the brightest smile on his face.

“Anything in the kitchen is up for grabs if you’re hungry. There’s new toothbrushes in the bathroom cabinet as well as untouched toothpaste and mouthwash if you don’t want to use mine- oh! And you can shower or take a bath if you need to. I washed the tub this morning, I promise it’s clean.” He rattled off as you dropped your backpack on the floor of the guest bedroom.

“Thank you, I’m sure I’ll be fine.” You told him nervously. You couldn’t quite differentiate if your anxiety stemmed from the loud storm or the fact that Jungwon was gazing at you as if you hung the very stars in the sky— his lips curved up into the most breathtaking smile the heavens had ever witnessed and his adorable dimples taking their place on his cheeks to complement it all.

“Sleep well, Y/n. Just knock on my door if you need anything. Goodnight!” He grinned and walked back to his room.

You showered and did your usual nighttime hygiene without any problems. It was only when you laid down with the intention of sleeping that you faced your first predicament.

The thunder was scaring you more than you had thought before.

When Jungwon was still in the room, you merely tensed a little when there was a particularly loud strike. But now that you were alone in the dark and unfamiliar guestroom, you felt frightened.

The room somehow seemed 10 degrees chillier than Jungwon’s comfortable room. Maybe it was him and his warmth that made it seem that way. You tossed and turned, trying to wrap the blanket around your body to find a comfortable position to fall asleep in. But with the storm in the background and nothing else to focus on, your anxiety built up until you were close to tears.

You tried one last time to close your eyes and escape into your dreams, but again, you failed as another strike of thunder reached your eardrums. It became impossible to hold back your tears anymore, and as they slipped down your cheeks, you slowly got yourself to walk down the hall to Jungwon’s room.

You knocked 3 times on his door, promising yourself that if he didn’t answer you would just go back to bed and force yourself to make it through the night. You were already staying over unplanned and you didn’t want to cause any more inconvenience to the boy you liked than you already were.

As soon as the door opened and a sleepy Jungwon stood on the other side of it, you were already moving to hug him. Jungwon, in his still drowsy state, was taken by surprise with your sudden closeness, but as soon as his foggy brain registered that he wasn’t dreaming and that you were in fact hugging him right now, his heart melted on the spot.

“W-what happened, Y/n?” He gulped, somehow gathering the courage to wrap his arms around you as well to reciprocate the hug. He had barely even held your hand before, let alone hug you so closely, and he felt as if he should’ve been given time to prepare for this.

It was hard to hear you completely since your words were getting muffled by the fabric of Jungwon’s hoodie, but he was able to make out “storm” and “scared” and “couldn’t sleep” and put the pieces together from there.

He smiled and lifted you up in his arms so he was carrying you. You let him, burying your face in the crook of his neck and wrapping your legs around his waist. He carried you carefully to his bed, setting you down on it as if he was scared he would crack you.

“You don’t have a sweater, do you?” He asked. He had noticed the goosebumps on your arms and how cold your skin had felt moments earlier. You shook your head.

“Hm…” Jungwon hummed, looking in his closet amongst the hangers of jackets to find a crew-neck sweater. He tossed it to you once he found a suitable one and your cheeks burned once you realized that he had given this to you to wear. His sweater for you to wear.

“Do you think you’ll be able to sleep if I stay with you?” He questioned shyly.

“You mean sleep… together?” You asked, slipping into the sweater.

“Uh- I… I didn’t mean it like- Well-” Jungwon’s cheeks had never flushed such a bright red before.

“I don’t… mind.” You whispered quietly. You smiled at him, hoping that he might actually join you because the hug had ended too quickly and you had a need to stay cuddled up to him where you felt comfortable and safe for hours.

“Is this okay?” Jungwon asked, experimentally scooting a little closer to you, at a distance where he could hold your hand without having to reach at all.

“Yeah.”

“What about uh…” He questioned you with his eyes as he lifted the blanket to slip under it. You nodded again, ignoring how both of your cheeks are red as tomatoes, and the butterflies in both of your stomachs are having little dance parties.

Jungwon repeated those steps, always asking you before he does something, making sure that before anything else, you’re comfortable. And you continued to nod and give him affirmative answers until eventually you’re curled up against his chest again.

Being so close to him came with all the comfort the world could offer. Nothing could dare to touch you when you were wrapped safely in his arms, cheek resting against his chest, listening to his heart race from having you so close.

You felt comfortable, and safe, and happy.

And even though the storm continues to thrash outside— raindrops falling heavily on the roof and thunder crashes startling you every couple minutes— you were able to close your eyes and eventually fall asleep.

When Jungwon noticed that you’d drifted off to sleep, he smiled and hugged you closer. He concludes that he must be on some sickenly-in-love high, because he swears he’s never had this much confidence in his life; but he somehow finds the confidence to bring his face down slightly, just enough to press his lips to your forehead for 3 short seconds, 3 seconds that felt like an eternity.

↳ enha taglist: @kangtaehyunzzz,, @yeonjuns-redhair,, @ddeonudepressions,, @skz-minchan-enthusiast,, @delcakoo,, @kpoprhia,, @weird-bookworm,, @cha3w0n-hearts,, @edensgardenn

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obxsummer · 9 months

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A Change of Summer // OBX x The Summer I Turned Pretty Crossover

where summer in outer banks meets summer in cousins beach and our favorite pogues meet our favorite... kooks: the fishers and conklins. conrad fisher x gn!reader x jj maybank

warnings: violence, angst, probably injuries and cussing, no use of y/n

a/n: based on these tiktoks (acct: @/sun.aepp on tiktok) I found and then I couldn’t get the idea out of my head. so here we are. for the sake of my feelings, Susannah isn't gone and nothing happened between Conrad and Belly at the end of S1.

navigation

The air always smelled different when you pulled into the driveway of your family’s summer house. Everything felt comforting when you came back here, like a home away from home that held memories for as long as you could remember. Every year, your family would start their journey in Cousins with your long-term family friends, the Fishers and Conklins, before taking off after the Fourth of July to come here: the Outer Banks.

This year was different though. This year, the moms were taking Cousins for themselves and the kids were all here, with you, for the first time ever. It took a little convincing to get Jeremiah and Steven away from their so-called ‘dream summer jobs’, but once you told them they could work at the country club here instead, they were sold. Cousins would always be one of your favorite places, but you were so excited to make some memories here with them too.

“This place is insane,” Isabel Conklin, or Belly as you all called her, spoke up from your passenger seat as she looked at your summer home with bright eyes. She had been your co-pilot and entertainer for the drive down while the boys all went together in a separate car so you weren’t all squished for the long ride.

“Come on,” You laughed and shut the engine off. “Let’s go so you can pick your bedroom first before the boys get here!”

Belly Conklin was the sweetest person you’d ever met in your life. Growing up together meant sharing secrets, long-distance FaceTime calls, and embarrassing moments that would go to the grave. She was only a year younger than you, turning 17 while you would be on vacation together, which really only pulled the two of you closer together.

You quickly opened the garage door of the home and rushed inside with your bag smacking your hip. Belly burst into a fit of giggles as the two of you scrambled over the freshly cleaned floors to get first dibs on the bedrooms.

Leaving the younger teen to situate herself, you moved into your personal room. It was just how you left it from last year with bright white and pale accent colors filling the space. Your feet moved first, throwing your body on the bed with a big sigh as you sank into the plush mattress below.

“Holy shit!”

The exclamation broke you from your momentary peace as you opened your eyes. You made your way downstairs to see the new figure in your kitchen with a wandering gaze and astonished expression.

“Damn, this house gives Cousins a run for the money!” Steven Conklin always knew how to make you laugh. As the second oldest of your group, he had no trouble being anything but a role model sometimes. You shook your head at him and left him to explore the area on his own, deciding to grab the rest of your stuff from the car.

“A little help unloading the car would’ve been nice, Steven.”

Jeremiah Fisher’s bright blue eyes always sparkled when you looked at them. You held back a laugh and walked closer. He didn’t hesitate to drop the bags in his hands when he caught sight of you. “My favorite ray of sunshine, look at you!”

“Jere!” You laughed but ran to him nonetheless as he caught you effortlessly in a hug. “I’m so excited you guys are here!”

Jeremiah spun the two of you in a circle before placing your feet back on the ground. “Listen, I have to admit I was a bit hesitant about not heading straight to Cousins.”

“I promise it’ll be a good time,” You reassured and gave his cheek a small squeeze. “Belly already claimed her room so you might want to go fight Steven for what’s left.” Eyes widening in shock, he took off instantly into the house and hollered for Steven to wait up.

Moving around to the trunk of your car, you grabbed a few handfuls of the items you could before coming face to face with Conrad Fisher. A gasp escaped your lips at the lack of space between the two of you before you took a small step back. “Conrad, hi.”

He didn’t miss the suppressed emotion behind your tone. The last time the two of you saw each other, were close to each other, it took everything in him not to kiss you. “Hi. Do you need some help?”

Glancing at the bag strap across his shoulder and the large cooler in his hands, you shook your head. “No, no. Thank you, though. How was your drive?”

Conrad Fisher. The boy who you had hated, loved, envied, admired. Every emotion you’d come to experience had a tie back to the boy in front of you.

Things with Conrad had always been complicated. He knew you better than anyone, yet he pissed you off every chance he had. He knew that you were wrapped around his finger too, and you hated that. You knew things had been rough when his mom went through her cancer treatment, and the whole ordeal with his parents’ divorce obviously, but that version of him had slowly disappeared since last year. You hoped this summer would actually put things back on track between the two of you.

“Boring. Jere snores when he sleeps.” His reply was simple and held the same tone yours did. This is how things always were when you guys saw each other after half a year apart. Awkward, tense, and then you’d slip back into your routine like nothing ever happened.

The kitchen was empty when the two of you walked in. You quickly left Conrad to himself and started stacking things by the stairs to take up for Belly and yourself. The pattern continued until both cars had been emptied out and everyone was conversing in the main sitting area.

“So, what first?” Jeremiah looked at you eagerly once the noise died down.

You shrugged as all of their eyes moved to you. “Plenty of options. I definitely want you guys to meet my friend Sarah. You’ll love her and her boyfriend. We’ll need to hit the grocery at some point too. We could do a quick island tour and grab some dinner to start?”

One of your other favorite parts of the summer house: your dad’s summer car. The custom-colored four-door Jeep Wrangler brought you so much joy with its oversized tires, LED lighting, and decals.

The five of you piled in, Conrad calling dibs on the passenger seat much to your surprise before you were on your way. The warm, salt-water air took over instantly as you pulled from the driveway. The music filled the otherwise silent car as the wind flowed around you.

“So, a little bit of OBX lingo for you,” You started after turning the music down a bit. “There are two sides to Kildare Island, which we’re on. This is Figure Eight and the other half is called The Cut.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Steven asked without moving his gaze from the passing views.

You knew it was going to be odd describing to them the balance and lifestyle of the island but better to tell them now than wait around. “Well, they’re metaphorically separated by social class. Those who have more income are on Figure Eight are called Kooks. Those on The Cut are Pogues.”

“Like…pogies? The fish?” Conrad’s addition to the conversation was slightly surprising but you nodded regardless.

“Low on the food chain, yeah.” You reached over the console to point towards a building on the passenger side. “That’s the country club. Steven and Jere, I already talked to the manager and he’s going to find you guys open positions if you’re still up for it.”

Both boys exchanged a fist bump, completely disregarding Belly who was stuck in between them.

You continued to point out a couple of other monumental landmarks that might spike interest including Sarah’s house alongside popular restaurants and stores. It was obvious when you switched from Figure Eight to the bridge to The Cut. The home quality instantly changed and the people were much more scarce.

“Damn, okay now I can see why you guys don’t come on this side of the island,” Jeremiah said as he caught sight of a rundown house. The majority of the area was still torn up from the hurricane that had just come through prior to your arrival.

You nodded. “I don’t really know anyone who lives on this side for the most part. But, they do usually have a bonfire at the start of the summer so we can always check that out if we want?”

“As long as it doesn’t end up like Belly’s first bonfire, sure,” Steven laughed from the backseat which prompted his sister to smack him across the shoulder. “Ow! I was joking, geez.”

“You’ll be fine here, Bells,” You reassured as you stopped at a light. “Unlike these idiots, I won’t leave you.” You glared at Jeremiah and Steven in the rearview mirror for emphasis.

They attempted to defend themselves but you tuned them out as you looked through the window. The realization that you’d never really spent time on The Cut was setting in, minus the few parties Sarah and her boyfriend would drag you to, and the rare occasion you had to drive this way instead.

“Yo, can we get some food? I’m starving.”

Deciding dinner would be a good move, you made your way to The Wreck. It was the best food you’d had on the island that wasn’t $100 per meal. While this was a summer to splurge with your friends, you definitely weren’t looking to drain your account in the first week.

“Does this look okay?”

Belly’s voice broke through the music in your bathroom as you continued to get ready. After a minor amount of persuasion, everyone decided the bonfire was a good move to kick off the trip.

You took in Belly’s crop top and jean shorts. “Yeah, absolutely. Hey, do you wanna grab us some drinks from downstairs and we can finish getting ready together?”

The two of you emerged downstairs sometime later to find Steven and Jeremiah entertaining themselves with cup pong against Conrad on your kitchen island. You moved fast enough to swat Jeremiah’s shot away from the rim of Conrad’s cup, effectively costing the opposing duo a turn.

“No!” The blue-eyed boy groaned at his loss before taking a sip of his red cup.

You weren’t paying attention to him though. Conrad had shifted right when your hand crossed his vision and was looking at you. You froze at the eye contact, wishing he would say something, anything, to give you a hint of what he was thinking. Was it about you? Did he like your outfit? When he stayed quiet, you offered him a small smile before turning away.

“Hurry up!” You replied to Jeremiah’s protests as you grabbed more drinks from the fridge for yourself and Belly to take along the way. “We’re already late and I wanna get there before they run out of stuff. Sarah texted me that she was already on her way there.”

It took a little more prying before you convinced them to leave and walk to the beach for the bonfire. The music was already blaring from who knows where when the five of you arrived. After getting drinks for everyone, you found a spot in the sand to claim as a standing area.

“Okay, so when does this get good?” Steven asked as he looked around at the surrounding crowd.

You glared at him and flipped him off. “I don’t see you bringing life to the party, Conklin. Go find someone to make out with.”

“Ew! I didn’t need that image in my head,” Belly groaned before taking a sip of her drink. She looked surprisingly comfortable compared to her normally stiff exterior when it came to parties. Granted, the past few that she’d been to hadn’t exactly been the best.

The sound of your name being called grabbed your attention just before a head of blonde hair invaded your view. Sarah Cameron had always been the happiest soul you had known. Having her around each summer made a huge difference on your trip.

“Sarah!” You embraced her tightly before letting go.

Her classic summer dress flowed in the wind as she took a step back. “You bitch! You didn’t tell me you were here!”

“Sorry, sorry.” Your apology wasn’t real, but you felt the need to say it regardless. Jeremiah cleared his throat behind you to which you snapped back to attention. “Oh! Sarah, these are my friends Belly, Jeremiah, Conrad, and Steven. Guys, this is Sarah Cameron.”

“I’ve heard practically everything about all of you,” She said and gave them a wave before her gaze moved back to you. “Come on! Topper’s been dying to meet everyone.”

“Topper?” Steven repeated the name as he and Jeremiah snickered. You gave them a sharp glare and continued to follow Sarah further into the crowd.

The air grew warmer as the six of you approached the large fire that everyone was surrounding. Sarah broke away from your side to run forward where you could see her boyfriend, Topper Thornton, chatting amongst his friends. To your unease, Sarah’s older brother Rafe Cameron was staring right back at you.

Growing up, you didn’t mind spending time with Rafe. He was two years older than you, but he loved to think that meant he controlled everything. As you got older, his desire to be in a relationship with you became painfully obvious. You had politely turned him down as much as you could, but nothing ever really stuck when it came to him.

Quick introductions were made before everyone fell into casual conversation. Belly and Sarah were getting along just as you thought, and it even seemed like Conrad was starting to crawl out of his shell. That was probably the alcohol more than anything, you reminded yourself.

Your conversation with Jeremiah was cut off when you saw a blond teen stumble their way toward Belly and Sarah. “Sarah, can I interest you in a tasty Milwaukee beverage?”

Your friend gave the kid an odd look and shook her head. “No, thanks.”

“Is it not fancy enough for you?”

“No, we were just-“

Topper stepped around you to come to his girlfriend’s defense. “Hey, I’ll take it.”

The boy offering the drink was instantly annoyed. “I didn’t ask you, Topper. If you’d said pretty please, maybe. But you didn’t so, too bad. You can have it, Sarah.”

“She doesn’t want it, asshole,” You spoke up from over Sarah’s shoulder. Jeremiah had moved to stand at your side and you could tell Steven and Conrad had stopped conversing to watch.

Topper smacked the cup out of the guy’s hands, the liquid splashing all over. “See what happens?”

You were vaguely aware of someone pulling your shirt backward as the blond teen’s friend threw himself at Topper. It didn’t take long for a full-blown fight to break out which caught the attention of everyone around. Angry shouting followed as the dark-haired boy screamed at Topper to continue the fight.

“Guys, we should go.” Jeremiah tugged at your shoulder and started to grab the rest of your group to herd you away from the violence in front of you.

“He’s got a gun!”

The statement ran your blood cold as you looked to see the blond kid from before with something dark and shiny against Topper’s head. Hands grabbed at your hips and lifted you forward as the five of you took off from the scene in fear. Someone’s hand was in yours, practically dragging you through the sand back up to the concrete path you’d used to get here. You didn’t make it very far before two loud cracks filled the air, gunshots.

Once the bonfire was out of your sight, you took the chance to slow down and catch your breath. “Is everyone okay?”

Belly’s eyes were wide in shock as she stayed close to her brother’s side. Jeremiah put his hands on his hips as he turned around to make sure nobody was following him. Everyone was clearly shaken and you were right there with them.

“What the hell was that?” Conrad’s hand dropped from yours, something you’d just now noticed. “So much for a fun, casual bonfire to kick off summer, huh?”

You took a step back in defense. “How the hell was I supposed to know that would happen?” You shouted. “I would have never taken you guys if I knew what was going on!”

Conrad’s eyes flared but he shut his mouth and continued to walk on the path. You stood frozen for a moment before groaning loudly and stomping behind him all the way home.

It took some time to get the nerves out of your system, but a cold shower helped. You texted Sarah to make sure everything was okay before heading to the kitchen to get something to drink. Belly and Jeremiah were watching a movie in the other room while Steven occupied himself with calling his mom to check in (and would hopefully be leaving out some major details of the night).

You came face to face with Conrad when you stepped into the slightly lit kitchen. He was rolling up a joint on the countertop and probably didn’t even notice you were there. You stood still for a moment and just observed him.

“A picture would last longer,” He blurted but kept his gaze on the object between his fingers. Shit.

You rolled your eyes and walked to the fridge to grab a drink. “Wasn’t staring.”

“I could feel your eyes on the side of my head.” You could hear the smile in his voice. You weren’t sure what it was about Conrad Fisher that kept you coming back but you knew you couldn’t stop. Cracking the top of your drink, you pulled a chair away from the kitchen counter to sit.

Moments of silence passed with the only noise coming from Jeremiah and Belly’s movie in the other room. The feeling of anxiety still coursed through your veins. It would be like that for a while, and you doubted that you would be able to get some sleep.

“Are you okay?” Conrad’s question was quiet, and you almost thought you imagined it. Even if you wanted to tell him yes, that you felt fine, you knew he could read you like a book. You offered a shrug instead. He watched you for a moment before standing up from his seat. Freshly rolled joint pushed behind his ear, he made his way over to you and grabbed your hand to pull you out of the chair so he could lead you through the house. “We’re heading to bed.”

Jeremiah and Belly were no doubt watching you follow the eldest boy up the stairs to your bedroom. Conrad slowly closed the door behind the two of you as you paced slowly back and forth.

“You don’t have to stay,” You whispered as you sat down on your bed with a sigh. Everything felt really overwhelming and suddenly, you doubted the good intentions behind having everyone join you here for the summer.

This wasn’t abnormal behavior for you and Conrad. He had unfortunately stumbled upon you fighting through one of your first anxiety attacks and talked you down before sharing his own experience. Turns out, the two of you had way more in common than you’d thought. This routine built up from helping each other over the years and it’d become second nature at this point.

“I’m not leaving you like this; you know that.” Conrad was already in his pajamas – sweatpants and a Cousins Rowing t-shirt, as he climbed under your covers. You stared at the ground beneath you for a moment before caving and making your way to crawl in next to him.

Often before you’d joke that maybe the two of you should have a smoke session and clear the air instead of sharing a bed after things like this. Conrad disagreed each time. You knew he was right about that being an unhealthy way out.

Fingertips smoothed across your back before sliding beneath your t-shirt. His skin was warm as he continued to give you the physical touch that would eventually calm your nerves. It was hard to shut off the thoughts running through your head but having someone to hold you and bring you back to earth always made everything easier. Conrad knew that. He knew you.

“Thank you.”

Your appreciation was left unanswered but acknowledged when Conrad pulled you closer against his chest. You fell asleep to the feeling of his lips against your head.

The next day had been much less eventful. You took the time to get some groceries from the store to stock up the fridge (and snagged some alcohol from your connection in town). Unpacking went by quickly and before you knew it, Conrad, Steven, and Jeremiah were begging for some surf time. Belly only offered a shrug to say she didn’t care what the group did, which is how you ended up here.

Ocean water chilled your bones as you sat on the surfboard below. To your amusement, Conrad kept encouraging Steven even with wipe out after wipe out. You decided it was a good time for a break and made your way out of the water to sit by Belly who had volunteered to watch everyone’s things.

“Hey, Bells.” You set your board in the sand and attempted to tame your salt-water-soaked hair. She smiled and handed you a towel so you could cover up before taking a seat next to her. “Everything okay?”

“Can I ask you something?” She questioned at the same time. The two of you shared a laugh before she continued. “Um… I’ve just been thinking. Is-Is there something going on? With you and Conrad, I mean? You guys have always been a certain way and then last night…”

You let out a deep breath and thought to yourself. Isabel Conklin had always looked at Conrad Fisher with the biggest heart eyes one could have. Everyone knew that including Conrad, but the two had never been anything besides best friends.

You didn’t want to be the one to break her heart, so you shook your head. “Nah, Bells. Conrad’s just as complicated and stoic as he’s always been, you know? I take everything he does with a grain of salt because you never know how he’ll react. We’re just really good friends.”

“Really good friends that sleep with each other in the same bed?”

A sudden interruption pulled your attention away from her question, to which you were extremely grateful. “Hey, does this belong to you guys? It was blowing away.” A girl stood in front of you with a t-shirt in her outstretched hand.

A deeper look at the shirt in her hand proved it to be Conrad’s so you stood up to grab it from her. “Yeah, thanks. I appreciate it.”

She gave a nod before focusing on you. “Are you from here? You look so familiar.”

You smiled and shook your head. “No, no. Just a regular for summer. You?”

“Yeah, yeah. I live off Clove. Been here my whole life.” She shrugged and looked over her shoulder to where you could see two other figures in the water surfing.

“Oh! We’re right off Anchorage so probably within walking distance,” You replied. “Did you happen to eat at The Wreck the other night? I swear-”

She nodded. “Yeah. My parents own it so I’m there all the time.”

“Kiara, right? My mom is great friends with Miss Anna.” You fidgeted with the t-shirt in your hands to see Cousins Rowing in large white text.

“That’s me.” Kiara shrugged and gave you a smile. “Were you guys at the bonfire last night?”

Belly's demeanor shifted noticeably as she stood up, her voice carrying an edge as she answered, “You mean the bonfire where a gun got pulled? Yeah, we were there.” She took the shirt from your hands, her steps taking her towards the water's edge.

“Sorry about her,” You sighed and crossed your arms as you watched her stop at the shoreline where Conrad was exiting the water. His mere presence on the surface of the beach seemed to shift the whole atmosphere.

Kiara waved off the apology. “Totally fine. Listen, my friends and I brought some snacks and drinks. Would you guys-”

“Kie! Are you ever gonna get your ass in the water?” A voice from behind her grabbed your attention and you instantly noticed the blond boy who pulled the weapon last night.

Kiara’s response was sharp, “Clearly in the middle of a conversation, JJ. Thank you.”

“Geez, alright forget I asked.” The blond boy, JJ apparently, came to a stop beside her and stared at you. Your face warmed at the attention. “Do I know you?”

You shook your head slightly as Kiara elbowed JJ’s tanned ribs. “Not officially but I definitely know who you are.”

He winced and let out a low whistle. “Damn. Guess my chances of taking you on a date just disappeared.”

“That you can bet on.”

You jumped at Conrad’s voice behind you and turned at his sudden presence. He brushed loose hair from his forehead and kept his expression stern, clearly unamused at this conversation. Not that it was any of his business on who you dated or spoke to. There was no surprise at his reaction but you didn’t expect him to be there.

You rolled your eyes at him. “I don’t need your help.”

Conrad stared back at you with unflinching determination as a silent conversation passed between your eyes. You recognized his concern, even if he struggled to convey it in a different way. His protective instincts always kicked in when it came to you.

Your attention moved back to Kiara. “We have snacks and stuff too. Do you guys wanna come sit? Maybe we can get to know each other?”

“Yeah, sounds good to me.” Kiara smiled. “I’ll grab our stuff and come over. JJ, help me?”

The blond boy was glaring knives in Conrad’s direction but followed his friend regardless. You turned back to Conrad and shoved his shoulder. “What the hell was that?”

“He was eye-fucking you. It was gross.” He turned away from you and moved back to the messy towels in the sand to sit.

“You don’t have to act so childish all the-”

“Sorry, I don’t want you hanging around someone who owns a gun and clearly doesn’t care who they point it at,” His reply was sharp and direct. Conrad’s eyes didn’t meet yours again and it was easy to recognize that he was pissed.

Kiara returned shortly later with a cooler packed with cheap beer and both of her friends including Pope who you all were introduced to. He and Steven quickly connected on scholarships and college options while Kiara scooped up Jeremiah’s bubbly personality instantly. Conrad and Belly were sulking to themselves which left you with the infamous JJ.

“Sorry if I scared you last night,” JJ suddenly blurted which surprised you. He caught your expression and continued. “Kie said your friend seemed upset about it when she asked.”

“Oh, Belly?” You waved a hand toward her. “I think it just kinda surprised all of us but they’ll get over it. Why did you have a gun on the beach anyway?”

JJ smiled to himself as if he were remembering something. “Long story. You smoke?” He held his weed pen out for you to take which you did happily. “So, y’all are Kooks I take it.”

You blew out the smoke before nodding. “Something like that. At the end of the night, we’re going home to Figure Eight so…” You trailed off and took another hit before handing it back to him.

“Nicest Kooks I’ve interacted with, if I’m honest.” He took the pen back and quickly downed his beer. He crushed the can with his hands and tossed it into the sand by Kiara for her to place in the trash bag. “Is he always like that with you?”

You followed his gaze to where Conrad had moved away from Belly and was having a smoke session himself. “Yeah, unfortunately. It’s complicated, to say the least.”

JJ laughed, “I love a challenge.”

You laughed softly and gave him a smile. “Good to know.”

You couldn’t help but feel that amid the chaos of the past few days that this might become something different… something new and exciting. And deep down, that’s exactly what you needed it to be.

The rest of your afternoon with Kiara, Pope, and JJ went really well. You hoped your groups could blend together throughout the summer and maybe it wouldn’t be so boring and repetitive.

You and Jeremiah were in charge of dinner tonight and after the amount of weed and alcohol consumed on the beach, everyone was begging for some actual food. Jeremiah had one of Susannah’s famous recipes memorized and had no trouble assigning you as his co-chef to help.

The aroma of spices filled the air as you stood by the kitchen counter. Jeremiah practically danced around the kitchen with easy confidence, his movements efficient and fluid. The clatter of pots and pans and the sizzle of food on the stove formed a comforting backdrop to the disaster of thoughts swirling in your mind.

Jeremiah glanced at you, a knowing glint in his eyes as he stirred a pot on the stove. "You seem a bit off tonight. Everything okay?"

You sighed, letting the wooden spoon in your hand rest against the counter. "Not really. I think Belly's upset with me, and I just... I don't know what to do about it."

He nodded, his gaze sympathetic. "Is it about Conrad?" He wasn’t a stranger to the ongoing tension that came with his brother’s presence.

Your shoulders slumped slightly, and you offered a hesitant smile. "Yeah, you could say that."

Jeremiah's hands worked deftly as he chopped vegetables, his voice calm and soothing. "You know, she's been in love with him for a while. Seeing you two together might be a bit hard for her."

You picked up a bell pepper, your fingers tracing the smooth surface absentmindedly. "I get it, I do. But it's not like I asked for this mess. And we’re not even really together."

"Well, you're not exactly making it easy on yourself."

You huffed a frustrated breath, dropping the vegetable into a bowl. "You're right. I'm not. But what am I supposed to do? Ignore my feelings? I don’t even really know what they are, to make things better."

"No, not at all. Just be mindful of how your actions with Conrad might affect Belly. She was really quiet today."

"I guess she figured out Conrad slept in my room last night." You leaned against the counter, your gaze fixed on the bubbling pot in front of you. "It's just so damn complicated, Jere. I thought we were all friends, but now it feels like I'm stuck in the middle of some love triangle drama."

Jeremiah chuckled again, his eyes warm as he reached out to touch your arm briefly. "You know, love triangles are cliché for a reason. Emotions are messy and unpredictable. But they don't define who you are."

A wistful smile tugged at your lips as you met his gaze. "When did you become so wise, huh?"

He grinned, turning back to the stove. "I try my best. Now, how about you help me with these potatoes? Maybe cooking will help take your mind off things for a bit."

As you grabbed a potato and a peeler, you felt a small sense of relief settle over you. Jeremiah's presence was a comforting grace, his wisdom a soothing antidote to the chaos of your emotions. Together, in the midst of chopping vegetables and simmering sauces, you found temporary relief from the tangled web of feelings and expectations. As you worked side by side, the kitchen filled with laughter and the clinking of utensils, you felt at home.

Following the clean-up of the kitchen after dinner, you moved outside to enjoy the coolness of the night and the sound of the ocean waves. To your dismay though, it seemed you weren’t alone.

The sun was dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the beach as you sat on a lounge chair. The atmosphere was charged with unspoken tensions, a sense of unease hanging in the air like a heavy cloud. Belly's eyes were fixed on Conrad, a mixture of frustration and adoration etched onto her face until she recognized your presence and it shifted to one of anger. On the opposite side of the pool, you exchanged glances with Conrad, a blend of irritation and a deeper emotion that remained locked beneath the surface.

"Isn't it just wonderful how we keep managing to go to the same place?" Belly's voice pierced the silence, her tone dripping with a hint of bitterness as she swam through the water. "Must be fate or something."

Conrad let out an exasperated sigh, his eyes rolling dramatically. "Fate? More like a twisted game." The beer and weed combo was definitely affecting his usual style of silence.

You offered a small smile, your gaze meeting Conrad's for a brief second before you shifted your attention away. "It's never boring, that's for sure."

Belly's focus shifted to you, her frustration now directed your way. "Oh, of course, you find it entertaining. Always the center of attention, aren't you?"

“What the hell?” Your patience wore thin, a flicker of annoyance glinting in your eyes. Belly never talked to you like that. "I'm not seeking attention, Belly. People choose to interact with me."

She leaned in, her tone accusatory. "Yeah, because you know exactly how to manipulate those choices."

You were in shock that she was this upset with you over nothing. Nothing happened between you and Conrad so why was she treating you like a bug on her shoe?

Conrad couldn't hold back his snarky remark. "Manipulate? Is that the word we're using now?"

Your reply held a touch of sarcasm, your positive attitude gone out the window. "Well, if the shoe fits..."

Belly's frustration ignited into anger as she stood up in the shallow end of the pool, her voice laced with emotion. "And if the shoe fits, you wear it well. Playing everyone like a fiddle." Her voice cracked, her anger barely contained as she stood her ground and faced Conrad. "And I'm not falling for your denial either! Everyone can see the way you two look at each other."

Conrad's gaze wavered, a fleeting vulnerability slipping through before he hardened it into a defiant glare. "You don't know anything."

Belly's voice trembled, her frustration giving way to a heartbreaking mixture of hurt and rage. "I know enough to see that you're pushing me away because of it."

You couldn't help the bitter chuckle that escaped you, your voice laced with a biting edge. "So now it's my fault that you two can't figure things out?"

Conrad's eyes flashed, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, please, don't give yourself that much credit. You’re doing a great job of fucking things up on your own."

Belly's hands trembled, her voice breaking as she lashed out. "You're the one who's not important enough to admit your feelings. You're too busy with your mind games to figure your shit out."

Rising to your feet, you felt the tension in the air like a physical weight, suffocating and inescapable. "And what about you, Belly? Clinging to your illusions won't make them real."

Her eyes welled up with tears, her voice a desperate plea as she kept her gaze on the boy. "I just want you to see me, to choose me."

Conrad's tone softened, carrying a mix of frustration and regret. "Belly, it's… it’s complicated."

The silence that followed was heavy. The waves provided a distant soundtrack, a rhythmic reminder of the tumultuous undercurrents within the circle.

You exchanged one last look with Conrad, a fleeting connection that held a complexity beyond words. Your heart was physically hurting. “If that’s how you guys feel about me then I’ll make it easy for you.”

Conrad’s voice called your name as you turned your back. Your actions were swift as you darted back into the house without another word. The weight of the day's emotional turmoil settled heavily as you retreated to your bedroom, seeking solace in the familiar space.

You sank onto the edge of your bed, your thoughts a swirling mess of hurt, confusion, and frustration. Belly and Conrad's biting words echoed in your mind, their harshness etching wounds that seemed to run deeper than you'd anticipated. The three of you never fought, minus the petty arguments you'd had as kids.

A soft knock on your bedroom door drew your attention, and you looked up to see Jeremiah's concerned face peeking in. Without a word, he stepped inside; his presence was a welcoming gift. His gaze was gentle as he closed the door behind him, leaning against it for a moment before crossing the room to sit beside you.

"You okay?" Jeremiah's voice was gentle, carrying a genuine concern that touched you in a way you hadn't expected. “I could hear bits and pieces.”

You sighed, leaning your head against the wall behind you. "Not really. It's just... everything feels so messed up right now."

He shifted closer, his shoulder brushing against yours in a comforting gesture. "Yeah, I know what you mean. Relationships can get pretty messy sometimes, especially when they involve Conrad."

You closed your eyes briefly, allowing his presence to anchor you in the moment. "It's just that... I don't know what I'm doing anymore. It's like I'm caught between feeling hurt by Belly and frustrated with Conrad, and I don't even know where I stand."

Jeremiah's hand found yours, his fingers intertwining with yours in a reassuring grip. "It's okay to feel lost. But you don't have to figure it all out right now."

A small, bitter laugh escaped you. "I wish it were that simple. I love him Jere, I’ve always loved him and I probably always will but it’s so… so toxic that it hurts."

He gave your hand a gentle squeeze. "You're not alone in this. And you know what? Sometimes people lash out because they're hurting too. You know Conrad shuts down when he’s overwhelmed."

“You like her, don’t you?” You should’ve seen it before. While you and Belly were looking at Conrad, Jeremiah was always looking at Belly.

He shrugged and stared at the pictures on your wall like they would tell everything. “She’s busy looking at Conrad. It doesn’t matter.”

“Of course it matters,” Your reply was a little more aggressive than you intended. “Jere, you deserve to be happy too. Maybe Belly just needs a push in the right direction.”

A sad smile graced his face as he looked at you. “I don’t want to be second to Conrad my entire life.”

Your gaze met his, a mixture of gratitude and exhaustion in your eyes. You leaned your head against his shoulder, finding comfort in his unwavering support. "Don’t downplay yourself. You always know how to make sense of things. That’s the Susannah in you."

He chuckled softly, his fingers tracing soothing patterns on your hand. "Well, I've had my fair share of tangled relationships and confusing feelings. But maybe it’s a bit of my mom’s influence, too."

You smiled, the weight on your shoulders lightening just a bit. "Thanks for being here, Jere. We’ll figure it all out."

He turned to you, his eyes filled with warmth and sincerity. "Always, no matter what."

As you sat there, side by side, a sense of calm settled over you. In Jeremiah's presence, the chaos of your emotions felt more manageable, and the wounds from the day's conflicts seemed to soften. Sometimes, all it took was a friend who truly understood and cared to remind you that even in the midst of heartache, there was always a glimmer of hope and a way to find your way back to yourself.

Walk on the beach tonight?

The new text flashed across your screen as you stared at the unknown number. Today had been less tense than yesterday but still awkward. Belly was avoiding you at all costs and Conrad was in his normal shifty mood. Steven and Jeremiah started work today at the club so you had to fend for yourself in the house for most of the day.

It’s JJ btw. Got your number from Kie. Guess I should’ve started with that.

You smiled and typed back. Would love to. Meet me at my place at 8. I’ll send the address.

JJ’s response was instant. I’ll be there.

A few hours later, you made your way to the back deck where you had texted JJ to meet you.

Conrad sat on a folding chair, his sun-kissed hair tousled by the breeze, his dark eyes fixed on the horizon. Beside him was Belly, her arms crossed, and a stormy expression on her face. She shot a quick glance in your direction, her distaste obvious even from a distance. You stood a few feet away, your gaze focused on the beach, your heart heavy with the weight of the recent argument. They still had yet to speak to you.

Jeremiah lounged in the chair next to you, his frame propped up on his elbows, seemingly lost in thought. He watched Belly intently, his feelings for her hidden beneath a carefully crafted mask of nonchalance that you could see through now that you knew.

Steven perched on the arm of a chair, his smile bright but strained, trying to keep the peace between his friends. He glanced at you sympathetically, understanding the turmoil that churned beneath the surface.

Tension hung in the air, a thick fog of emotions waiting to be acknowledged. It was clear that the disagreements of the past few days had taken their toll on the group's dynamic. Conrad's and your on-off relationship had always been a whirlwind, but lately, it had been more stormy than sweet.

Feeling the need for an escape, you turned to see JJ walking up the path from the beach. He strolled along the shoreline, his lanky figure cutting a carefree silhouette against the setting sun. Catching your eye, he grinned and waved, gesturing for you to join him.

As if pulled by an invisible thread, you left the deck and walked toward JJ, leaving behind the complicated web of emotions that surrounded your friends. You could feel their curious glances on your back.

"Hey there," JJ greeted, his voice carrying a laid-back charm that put you at ease. “So this is where you live, you Kook.”

"Hey," you replied, a small smile tugging at the corners of your lips at his light teasing. The weight on your shoulders seemed to soften with each step you took away from the group.

JJ returned the smile and gestured toward the shoreline. "Wanna take a walk?"

Grateful for the distraction, you nodded and fell into step beside him. The sound of the waves grew louder, drowning out the distant murmur of your friends' conversation. As the two of you walked along the water's edge, your thoughts began to drift away much like the actions of the sea.

Back by the house, Conrad watched you go, his conflicted gaze fixed on your retreating figure. Belly sighed beside him, wishing he’d watch her that way. Steven's gaze flickered between the two, his role as the peacekeeper extending beyond words.

As you walked alongside JJ, a sense of calm settled over you. The soft, warm sand beneath your feet provided a soothing contrast to the emotional turmoil that had been stirring. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was a gentle symphony, drowning out the noise of your thoughts.

"That seemed awkward. Trouble in paradise?" JJ asked, his voice carrying a genuine curiosity.

You glanced at him and shrugged. "Just needed a break, you know? Things have been a bit complicated with everything."

JJ nodded in understanding, his eyes reflecting a quiet empathy. "I get that. Sometimes a little distance can give you a fresh perspective."

You found yourself opening up to JJ more than you had expected. Maybe it was the anonymity of sharing your thoughts with someone who wasn't entangled in the web of emotions that seemed to follow you.

"It's just... this thing with Conrad," you confessed, your voice tinged with frustration. "And it's been affecting everyone in the group, especially Belly. She's always had a thing for him, and she's not too happy about me being in the picture."

JJ listened attentively, his gaze fixed on the horizon as he let you pour out your thoughts. There was something comforting about confiding in someone who didn't have any preconceived notions about your life. He never thought he’d play therapist - that was usually Pope’s role anyway.

"I get it," JJ finally said, his voice gentle. "Our group set up rules to prevent this kind of thing actually. No pogue on pogue macking. Keeps the emotions out of play."

You laughed at the statement even though it made so much sense. “Yeah if our moms hadn’t encouraged the idea in the first place, that rule would’ve solved a lot of problems.”

As you continued to walk, you felt a sense of understanding and admiration growing between you and JJ. It was as if the beach, with its calm and beauty, served as a canvas for your shared thoughts and feelings.

"And what about you, JJ?" you asked, curious to know more about the person who was becoming a source of comfort and escape for you.

JJ shrugged, a playful grin crossing his face. "Oh, I'm just trying to enjoy the summer vibes. The beach is my escape, you know? It's like my therapy. Just glad I can enjoy a good surf here and there too."

You chuckled, the tension in your shoulders easing. "Well, I'm glad I stumbled upon your therapy session."

The two of you walked in companionable silence for a while, the fading light of the sun casting long shadows on the sand. As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, you found yourself laughing and genuinely enjoying the moment. The beach had a way of making everything else seem small and insignificant in comparison.

Eventually, the sky began to darken, and the stars emerged one by one, casting a soft glow over the shoreline. With a reluctant sigh, you realized that it was time to head back to your home.

"Thanks for this," you said to JJ, “I really needed it.”

He smiled, his eyes reflecting the moonlight. "Anytime. The beach is always here, I’m just an added benefit."

The soft sound of the waves, now illuminated by the faint glow of the moon, provided a serene backdrop to your conversation. As you walked, the sand shifted beneath your feet, the soft surface occasionally giving way to hidden obstacles. Lost in the moment, you didn't notice the uneven ground, and before you knew it, your foot caught on a raised piece of sand and you stumbled forward. Your ankle twisted painfully, and you let out an involuntary gasp of pain, collapsing onto the sand.

"Shit, you alright?" JJ's voice was laced with concern as he knelt beside you, his hands hovering near you but not quite touching.

Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as the pain throbbed in your ankle. You clenched your teeth and nodded, squeezing your eyes shut to fight back the discomfort. “Just twisted it.”

JJ's expression was a mix of worry and empathy as he crouched down beside you. "Let me help you. We'll take it slow."

With his steady support, you managed to get to your feet, though each step was accompanied by a throbbing pain that made your breath catch. You leaned on JJ for balance, grateful for his presence in this moment of discomfort.

As you made your way back to the beach house, the distance seemed longer than ever, and you were acutely aware of JJ's arm around you, guiding you carefully. The soft glow of lights from the house grew closer, and relief flooded over you as you realized you were almost there.

Just as you reached the poolside, the back door burst open, and Jeremiah, Steven, and Conrad rushed out, their faces etched with concern as if they’d been watching you walk up from the beach. Belly stood near the doorway, her expression a mixture of curiosity and detachment.

"What happened?" Conrad's voice was urgent as he hurried to your side, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation.

"I twisted my ankle," you managed to say, your voice strained from the pain.

Conrad's eyes flickered between you and JJ, suspicion evident in his gaze. He seemed to be on the brink of saying something, but Jeremiah and Steven stepped forward, their presence a calming influence.

"It was an accident, Connie," Jeremiah's voice was firm as he clocked Conrad’s angry expression. "We need to go inside and get some ice."

Conrad's jaw clenched, his gaze still fixed on JJ, but he exhaled sharply and nodded, seemingly accepting the situation. "Fine, let's get inside."

With the combined support of JJ and Conrad, you were guided inside the house and settled onto a couch. Your ankle throbbed painfully, and you winced as you tried to find a comfortable position. Steven quickly ran for an ice pack, while Jeremiah propped up your ankle with a cushion.

Conrad hovered nearby, his eyes never leaving you, a mixture of concern and something more complex in his gaze. His fingers twitched as if wanting to reach out, but he held back, his emotions a mixture of worry and guilt.

As your friends tended to your injury, you caught glimpses of Belly's distant gaze, her form a silhouette against the lights of the house. She watched the scene unfold without a word, her feelings seemingly held at arm's length.

“Thanks,” You breathed a sigh of relief when JJ handed you the painkillers that Steven had found.

Conrad turned from his spot on the couch next to you, his eyes narrowed as he faced JJ. "How could you let this happen? If you hadn't gone for a walk, this wouldn't have happened."

JJ's brows furrowed, his expression a mix of frustration and defense. "It was an accident, dude. I didn't plan for anyone to get hurt."

Conrad's jaw clenched, his fists curling at his sides. "You should have been more careful." He knew he was overreacting but it was you and when anything came to you he just snapped.

Steven, who had been observing the conversation, stepped forward. "Hey, hey, let's take a step back here."

Conrad turned to Steven, his anger still evident in his eyes. "Steven, seriously. He should have been more responsible."

You groaned, your gaze shifting between Conrad and JJ. "Look, I get that you're upset, but accidents happen. It's not fair to blame JJ for something that was just my bad luck."

Conrad's shoulders remained tense, his fists slowly unclenching. Steven's tone softened as he stepped closer to Conrad. "Blaming JJ isn't going to change what happened. Right now, everyone needs to just get some rest."

Conrad's expression softened slightly, his anger giving way to a mixture of concern and guilt. "Yeah, whatever."

As the tension in the room began to ease, Jeremiah glanced at you. "Hey, why don't we give them some space? I think they could use some privacy right now."

Belly, who had been quietly watching from the corner, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I think that's a good idea." You’d forgotten she was even there.

Jeremiah's gaze met yours, his expression filled with a mixture of apology and exhaustion. "I'll check on you later."

You smiled, appreciating his concern. "Thank you."

As your friends filed out of the room, leaving you and JJ alone, a sense of calm settled over the space. You leaned back against the couch, your injured ankle propped up on a pillow. The pain had subsided somewhat, but your thoughts still churned with the emotions of the night.

"Are you okay?" he asked softly, his eyes filled with concern. “I’m sorry.”

You nodded, appreciating his attentiveness "Yeah, I'll be okay. Thanks for helping me and seriously, don’t apologize. Sorry that he attacked you like that."

The soft glow of the room's lights cast a warm ambiance, and you found yourself stealing glances at JJ when you thought he wasn't looking. There was a calmness about him, a sense of understanding that you hadn't expected to find in someone you had just met.

As if sensing your thoughts, JJ turned his head and met your gaze, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "You know, I've had my share of beach mishaps, but I think this one might just take the cake."

You chuckled softly, grateful for his attempt to lighten the mood. "Yeah, I guess I'm breaking records here."

The two of you shared a comfortable silence, the weight of the evening's events fading into the background. At that moment, it was just you and JJ, the connection between you growing stronger with each passing second.

"I hope this didn't ruin our walk," you finally said, your tone teasing.

JJ grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Trust me, this will be a story to remember. Can’t wait to tell the Pogues."

As you gazed at him, a mixture of gratitude and a hint of something else—something that had been simmering beneath the surface—bubbled up within you. The warmth in JJ's gaze was inviting, his presence comforting.

Before you could overthink it, before the complexities of your relationships and the weight of the night's conversations could hold you back, you leaned in and pressed your lips against JJ's in a soft, gentle kiss.

The moment was tender, a release of emotions that had been building throughout the evening. JJ's lips were warm against yours, and for a heartbeat, everything else faded away—the tensions, the conflicts, the doubts. It was just you and him, connected in a way that felt both unexpected and right.

When you pulled away, the room seemed to hold its breath, the air charged with a new kind of energy. JJ's eyes searched yours, his expression a mix of surprise and something deeper, something that mirrored the emotions swirling within you.

"Wow," he breathed, his voice barely above a whisper.

You smiled, a mix of nerves and anticipation dancing in your chest. "Yeah, wow."

In your post-kiss bliss, you’d missed the individual audience with glassy eyes. There, standing a few steps up, was Conrad, his eyes wide with a mixture of shock and hurt. He had unintentionally witnessed the kiss, and he wished more than anything that he hadn’t.

He turned away abruptly, his footsteps silent as he ascended the stairs. It was clear that he was upset, his emotions a tangle of confusion and perhaps jealousy as his heart broke in his chest. He was losing you. God, he was losing you and he had nobody to blame but himself.

navigation

part two

wanna see certain scenes in the second part? ask me anything

286 notes · View notes

middleearthpixie · 9 months

Note

Here I come bringing my obsession your Ask Box!

AUgust Mashup:

Eomer + Enemies to Lovers + “I didn’t know you cared.”

No pressure: Please and thank you! <3

Ahhhh... I know this took me FOREVER, but here you go (and you should know, this is my very first time ever writing Éomer, so I really hope I got him right!)

I hope you like it! 💜💜💜

Fair Enough

Trope: AUgust Mashup Enemies to Lovers

Quote: “I didn’t know you cared…”

Pairings: Éomer x fem!reader

Warnings: None. Just fluffy fluff

Rating: G

Word Count: 4.6k

***

“Isn’t there some way we could just—you know—knock him from his saddle?”

You bit back a smile at Cynewyn’s suggestion, although it did have merit, and tried instead to focus on the plate you were drying. “The trouble with that would be, we might spook his horse and if it was injured, we’d never forgive us, would we?”

“Well, no. I don’t suppose we would. But, the horse might be just fine. Only Éomer would get no less than he deserves.”

“True, but it’s a risk I’d rather not take. The last thing either us or papa needs is to to pay for replacing his horse.”

“It would be no less than he deserves as well, the snake. I’d like to throw a rock at him right now.”

“Makes two of us, but again—”

“I know,” Cynewyn sighed, “it’s a risk you’d rather not take.”

“Exactly.” You smiled at your older sister. “We can only hope that one day, he gets his and that we are lucky enough to witness it.”

“Which is not going to happen.” Cynewyn went quiet as she dunked another plate into the washbasin. “Still, why would he do that to you, anyway? What was the point?”

You shrugged, taking the plate to wipe dry. “To make sport of me, I suppose. After all, isn’t it funny when a man pretends he’s interested in you and then when you show up at your agreed upon meeting place, he’s nowhere to be found? And isn’t it funny when he and his friends were just outside of the pub, giggling like children, is just so amusing?”

“Men? Bah! They are but boys. Big boys, but boys just the same.” She passed you another plate.

You said nothing, but dried the plate and then slid it onto its shelf in the cupboard, atop the small stack you’d already dried. In the time it took you to do that, Éomer had moved on down the road that ran before the kitchen windows of your family’s small stone cottage. You should have known he’d been sporting with you when he asked you to meet him at the coffeehouse the previous week. Until that morning, he didn't seem to know you were alive. It was only too bad you could not say the same, because not only did you most definitely know he was alive, you thought he was the most perfect man alive. That afternoon, however, he toppled from that pedestal and shattered at its base as far as you were concerned.

Of course, that didn't mean his thoughtless actions didn't hurt. Because they did. They most definitely did.

But, you’d not think about what happened any longer. He’d gotten a good laugh at your expense, but you would rise above it. You had no other choice, really. He was the king’s nephew and you were… well…

You were nobody, really.

A depressing thought.

You finished drying the dishes and left your sister to whatever it was she was doing. You shared a room and night after night, you would stretch out on your bed and try to read whilst she went through her seemingly bottomless supply of fabric for whatever gown she was going to try to copy from whichever lady she saw in town. She was really quite gifted, so you didn’t mind when she asked you to be her model, as you had no dressmaker’s dummy. But tonight, she did not need your assistance and, claiming a headache, instead she chose to go to bed early. A good night’s sleep was always welcomed, but as you lay there in the dark, sleep mocked you instead. It had been happening more and more often now, as the world grew more unsettled and while you could usually find some way to drift off, tonight was not one of those nights. You were simply too restless and so you slipped from the small stone cottage to go for a walk.

You tried not think about how disappointed you’d been when Éomer stood you up at the coffeehouse. Perhaps you should have expected it, but it hurt just the same. Of course, you weren’t the only one who imagined catching his eye. Half the women of marriageable age in Edoras dreamed of doing just that and no one could blame a one of you. Not only was he the king’s nephew, but he was so blasted handsome, with his long, wavy dark gold hair and direct hazel eyes. And whenever you saw him on horseback—you melted a little on the inside each time.

Of course, now he knew you fancied him and not only that, but he’d used it against you. Knocking him off his horse wasn't even close to being enough. Still, you couldn't dwell on it forever. In time, everyone who was in that coffeehouse would forget.

Everyone but you, anyway.

“And that is the last we will think of it,” you muttered, trying instead to focus on something, anything, else as you strolled on.

It was a peaceful night, hints of the coming autumn in the crisp edge of the breeze that stirred the leaves last night’s storm had pulled from the trees. The best thing about the stone cottage at the end of the road in Edoras? You were the farthest point from the king’s residence, which meant you would most likely not cross paths again with Éomer at this time of night. True, he’d been riding south, which meant that at some point he would pass by here again, but you’d have enough warning, as the road was wide and almost no trees lined it. Sneaking up on you would be almost impossible.

Not that he would even try. He’d made himself perfectly clear where you were concerned.

The night sky was clear, spangled with stars and moonlight bathed everything as far as you could see an etherial silver color. There had been rumblings to the east, and you’d heard talk amongst the menfolk about the possibility of war, and you also knew that orcs had been seen on the borders of Rohan. And that was why you did not leave your house without a blade of some sort. Although your father was not overjoyed at the thought, he allowed both you and Cynewyn to carry a small sword, which you were almost never without. You weren’t a master by any stretch of the imagination, but Papa had made certain you and your sister learned how to defend yourselves, should the need ever arise.

Your walks had become your way of remaining sane when it seemed there was so much uncertainty all around. The thought of war was so foreign to you, as your father insulated you and Cynewyn as best he could, and yet you knew it wasn’t far off. The king’s health was failing, and you’d heard rumors that he, Éomer, and the king’s advisor, Grima, had been butting heads of late.

Perhaps that was why Éomer had gone thundering past the kitchen windows on his horse as he had. One too many cross words with his uncle, maybe? In some ways, you hoped so, for if Éomer was banished, life would become easier for you.

But at the same time, if you were completely honest with yourself, you knew if he left for good, you would miss him terribly. How difficult it was, caring so much for a man you also tried so hard to despise! If only you could forgive him.

If only.

You vowed once more to not think about it.

Instead, you concentrated on the beauty of the night sky, of how those stars seemed so vast and endless, how the moon managed to bathe things silver although it gave off no light. You listened to the whisper of the wind through the scrub grass and bushes that dotted the landscape seemingly to the edge of Middle Earth. The wind whispered, crickets chirped, and in the distance, an owl hooted. A normal night.

Or so you thought.

You heard the noise before you saw the creature that made it and as those sounds reached your ears, the stench reached your nose. Your heart lurched, your stomach kinked, and a sour taste filled your mouth, brought on both by the stink and the coldest, iciest, most petrifying fear that ever permeated your being.

Papa always told you not to venture too far from the road. One never knew what lurked in the fields sweeping east and west, where twisted trees grew in clumps and provided cover for many things.

Such as the orc now standing over Éomer’s prone body.

You ducked, shifting toward the stand of pine trees twisted by the winds, which thankfully carried any sounds you might have made away from the orc and Éomer. Metal clanged Éomer blocked the orc’s downward swing with his blade. He held fast, his arms trembling from the effort and his heavy glove the only thing keeping the dual-sided blade from slicing into his hand.

The orc appeared to brace harder against his blade, determined to run Éomer through and you couldn't let that happen, no matter how angry or hurt you were because of him. So, you slid your blade free and crept about the pines as silently as you knew how. You’d learned from Papa, who would take you with him when he went hunting, and although you could never bring yourself to kill anything, you learned from him just the same. Besides, an orc wasn’t anywhere near as beautiful as a deer or fox. Quite the opposite, really. They were the ugliest, vilest, most disgusting creatures to walk the earth as far as you were concerned.

Your soft-skinned boots made no sound as you approached and the orc never knew what hit him when you swung and cleaved his head clean from his shoulders. What was left of him collapsed like a sandbag atop Éomer, who swore softly as the creature’s thick, black blood splattered him.

Nausea rose in your throat as it spattered you as well, and you tried to ignore it as you grabbed the still-warm shoulder and threw the corpse back. “Are you all right?”

“I’ve had better nights,” Éomer groaned, rolling over and onto his knees, his sword clattering softly in the dust. “What are you doing out here?”

“I was but going for a walk. What is that—” you gestured to the dead orc—“doing here? They do not usually venture so close to our borders.”

“They grow bolder and have been for some time now.” He rocked back on his knees and swept his silver and brass helmet from his head to let it clatter to the ground alongside his sword. “Are you all right?”

“Me? I am fine.” You resheathed your sword and carefully crouched alongside him. His dark blond hair was damp with sweat, pulled away from his face and held back with a small strip of worn leather. “And you?”

“I’ll be fine.”

“What happened?”

“It’s nothing.” He winced as he shifted onto his backside and gingerly prodded at his left thigh.

You looked down, your stomach clenching at the sight of the wound that must’ve bled terribly, for the entire front of his trouser leg was stained with a large wet patch. It looked as if the orc’s blade had sliced through the fabric. Without thinking, you brushed his hands aside to see for yourself and as soon as you had, you wished you hadn’t.

The wound was ugly and raw, a long slice from just below his hip to his knee, and still bled freely. “We need to get you home.”

“You go on. I need to find my horse.”

“Your horse is not here,” you told him, scanning all around to make certain you weren’t lying. You were’t. There was no sign of a horse anywhere about. “Come, let’s get you up and I will help you.”

“Just leave me…”

“Oh, don’t be a fool!”

He jerked back. “I am serious. Leave me. The last I want is harm befalling you on my behalf. So please, just go. There will be more of them coming, looking for this one,” he nudged the corpse with one boot. “And I am not at all certain I’d be able to protect you.”

“You mean you aren’t certain you’d want to.”

He just stared up at you. “I didn't say that, nor would I.”

“You might as well. Aren’t I only a laugh to you anyway? Ever the fool for you and your friends to chuckle over.”

At least he didn't try to deny his actions or motivations as he said, “Oh… the coffeehouse.”

“Yes,” you nodded, “the coffeehouse. So, you’ll forgive me if I don't believe you would lift a finger to keep an orc away from me. Of course, you would do well to remember that it was I who saved you from an orc regardless. Still, if you wish to be left alone, far be it from me to insist on staying.”

You moved to stand, only to have him catch you by the wrist. “No, please,” he said softly, looking up once more, “don’t go. I—I owe you an apology for that.”

“To save your sorry skin, no doubt.”

To your surprise, he chuckled. “I deserve that.”

“Oh, that’s mighty big of you to admit,” you said dryly. “How very big indeed.”

“Very well, you’re right, you know. About all of it. And I mean that in the most sincere manner possible. Honest.”

That took a bit of wind from your sails and you sighed. “Perhaps we might fight about it later?”

He bobbed his head. “I wholeheartedly agree with that notion. Much, much later. In fact, we should never speak of it again.”

“Once you apologize, you mean.”

“I just did apologize.”

“No,” you shook your head, “you said you owed me one, which you do of course. But admitting it is not an actual apology.”

To your surprise, he burst out laughing. It was cut short by a sharp inhale of pain, but his smile only wavered as he snorted, “You’re joking, right?”

“You mean to tell me you honestly considered that an apology? Those sorry words? Truly?”

“Well…” he nodded. “Yes."

“Fine.” You stood up and brushed dirt and crushed pine needles from your backside. “I’ll bid you good eve then. You should hope you’re mobile once more before they come looking for their friend.”

You had every intention of marching off, of just leaving him there to rot, not caring if any more orcs happened upon him. It would serve him right. Apology. Bah! He could go pound sand, as Papa would say.

However, you only got maybe ten feet away when your conscience got the better of you and you came back to find he hadn’t moved an inch.

“Come,” you growled, crouching beside him once more to take hold of his left wrist. “Let’s get you back.”

“I didn't know you cared,” he said even as he allowed you to help him up.

“I don’t. I should let you rot.”

“So, why aren’t you?”

“I don’t know. I’m a soft-hearted fool, I suppose.” You gave a not so gentle tug. “We should go. His pack is bound to notice he’s not returned and I do not want to have to explain to your uncle how I let you get butchered by orcs.”

“I’ll be forever grateful,” he replied drolly.

“Do you wish my help or not?”

He draped an arm about your shoulder. “Yes, of course I do. And I appreciate it as well.” He winced. “How far are we from Edoras’ border?”

“It’s better if you don’t know.”

“That far, eh?”

He leaned heavily on your shoulder, and you tried to ignore the stinging along your neck, the dull ache that spread down into your shoulder from bearing the brunt of his weight, as he was considerably taller and heavier than you were. “I’m afraid so, yes.”

“Wonderful.”

For reasons you couldn't begin to explain, the drollness in his deep voice made you laugh. “Yes, I couldn’t agree more.”

You managed to get him back to the road, him leaning hard against you with each step he took on his wounded leg. And with each step, his gait slowed. “Take care,” he said when you stumbled. “It would do us both no good if we fell.”

“I beg your… pardon,” you gritted, hefting him higher on your shoulder once more, “but… you are… not light, you know.”

“I know and I appreciate your help here as well.” He went silent for a long moment, then, drew in a deep breath and added, “And I’m sorry. For what I did at the coffeehouse.”

“All you had to do was come in and tell me you’d changed your mind, you know.” you told him, staring straight ahead, waiting for Edoras’ reassuring lights to come into view. At least then, you knew you’d be close to home and close to safety.

“The thing of it is, I didn’t change my mind.” The regret in his voice surprised you and you stopped without warning, catching him as he stumbled, then scolded, “Take care, if you wouldn’t mind.”

“I’m sorry, but what? What do you mean, you didn't change your mind? Of course you did. I was there, remember? I was there and you were not.”

“No, I know that, but,” he pulled free, easing his arm from about her shoulders before shifting to settle on a rock, “I need to sit a moment.”

You didn't fight him, happy to be free of his weight, even if only for a few minutes. You rubbed the side of your neck. “Only a few minutes, though. We don’t know how much time we have left.”

“I know.” He looked up at you. “I didn’t change my mind, you know.”

“So you’ve said. What you haven’t said, was why you just left me sitting there like a fool.” Finally, you were able to get that weight off your chest, your eyes stinging the way they had in the coffeehouse, when you realized he was not coming through the door. “Why did you do that to me?”

“I was coming in,” he said slowly, looking up to meet your gaze, “and when I saw you… I got nervous and I know that sounds idiotic, but it’s the truth. It was a stupid, fool thing to do to you and I am ever so sorry I hurt you. If I could but do it over, I would walk through that door and we would not be having this conversation. And for that, I am also sorry.”

You had waited so long for him to assume responsibility for how he’d hurt you. And now that he had, you were at a loss for words. How did you respond to that? What did you say?

“Am I supposed to believe you had an attack of nerves? You, of all people?”

“Is that so hard to believe? I’m only human as human as any other man, you know. And that means that yes, sometimes, I have an attack of nerves. I’m not made of stone, I’ll have you know and you—”

You waited a moment for him to finish, your heart beating erratically now as those words were the last ones she ever thought she’d hear from him. But, when he remained silent, just staring at the ground, you leaned in. “I what?”

He looked up then, his eyes soft, and murmured, “You stole the breath from my lungs.”

You could only stare. Were you but dreaming or perhaps he’d suffered a head injury before you reached him? One of those had to be the truth because there was no other rational explanation for his words, no matter how they set butterflies free in your belly to batter your insides with their wildly-beating wings.

“Éomer, I—I don’t know what to say,” you finally managed.

“No, I’m sure you don’t,” he replied softly. “And I cannot fault you. But, if you could find it in your heart to forgive me, I would like another chance. A chance to right things between us.”

“Things between us? Is there a thing between us, never mind more than one?”

To your surprise, a sheepish smile lifted his lips. “I should like there to be.”

“I don’t even like you, you know.”

His grin widened. “Somehow, I don’t believe that. After all, you came back, didn’t you?”

“Don’t let it go to your head. I could still leave you out here.”

“You could.” He nodded, then shook his head. “But you won’t.”

You stared at him for a long moment, then let out a heavy sigh of resignation. “No. I don't suppose I will.”

His eyes sparkled with mischief. “I knew it.”

You offered up a smile of your own and then, with all the force you could generate, you punched him square in the shoulder.

He yelped as the blow sent him rocking backwards. “What was that for?”

“Because you, Éomer, are an ass and I should leave you here to suffer whatever fate you deserve.”

“You should, but I wish you wouldn’t.” He reached for your hand, caught it, and linked his fingers with yours. “I am truly sorry, though. You have to believe me.”

“Why should I believe you now?”

Éomer winced as he carefully stood. “Because I would like the chance to right my wrong where you are concerned.”

You looked up at him. “And how do you think you can do such a thing? I hate you.”

“No, you don’t.”

“I’m fairly certain I do.”

He smiled then and bent and before you could say anything, his lips met yours. Despite his wounded leg, he caught your face between his hands, not so much as wavering as his lips moved teasingly and gentle against yours, as his tongue eased between your lips to caress yours, and you shivered at the silken caress. His lips were soft and warm and those butterflies fluttered harder now, with more fury as he kissed you slow and deep and made your head spin as it had never spun before.

Éomer was slightly breathless when he drew back. “So, will you allow me another chance? A chance to right what I’ve done wrong?”

“By all rights, I should say no.”

“But you won’t.” His hazel eyes sparkled with mischief.

“No,” you shook your head slowly, “I won’t.”

In the distance, came the snarl of wargs and that was enough to spur Éomer to drape his arm about your neck once more and say, “We should go.”

“A wise idea, to be sure.”

You made it back to Edoras without incident and you wasted no time in rousing the healer from her bed, just as she wasted no time in shooing you from the infirmary. Someone must have alerted Éowyn as well, for she came hurrying down the corridor, her hair bound up away from her face and still in her nightdress.

“What happened?”

“He was set upon by orcs just beyond the border.”

“But what were you doing out there?”

You managed a smile. “I was but going for a walk. I was having trouble sleeping, and sometimes that helps.”

“You need be careful,” she warned. “What if you’d been alone?”

“We won’t think about that.”

The healer came out. “My lady,” she said with a tired smile. “His lordship is resting now and he’d like to see you.”

Éowyn stepped forward, only to have the healer shake her head. “No, my lady, I’m sorry. He meant you,” she said, looking at you.

You swallowed hard. “M-me?”

The healer nodded now. “He was very clear.”

“I’ll just see what he might want,” you said, feeling no little guilt at Éowyn’s almost hurt expression. “And when he hears you’ve come down to see him, I’m sure he will ask you be brought in.”

Éowyn said nothing, but bobbed her head and you followed the healer into the small, quiet, semi-dark room.

Éomer was abed, the linens stark even against his pale hair, and your heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, as you’d never seen him so informally dressed, his loose tunic left unlaced to offer up an enticing patch of what you were certain was a finely-muscled chest. The image that came to your mind brought those butterflies to life once more deep within your belly.

His eyes were closed, his enviably thick lashes dark crescents against his pale cheeks, but as you drew near, they opened and a tired smile lifted the corners of his mouth. “I thought perhaps I’d dreamed everything that happened this night,” he said softly, “but the pain is far too real.”

“I assume your healer stitched the wound. It looked fairly ugly.”

He nodded. “She did. I can resume duties in a week, according to her.” He gestured for you to come closer and when you did, he added in a whisper, “and we won’t tell her when I’m gone come morning, will we?”

“You should take her advice.”

“I cannot. Not right now.”

“Éomer, you will be useless with only a few hours’ rest and one leg. You need allow yourself time to heal.”

“Are you taking her side?”

“In this?” You nodded. “Absolutely.”

“But… you’re supposed to take my side.”

“I would be, if you weren’t talking such foolishness.”

“Ouch. You wound me.” As he spoke, he reached out and caught your hand, and your mouth went dry as he gave a gentle tug. “Come and lay with me.”

“I couldn’t.”

“You could.”

“Éomer.”

“What?”

“I don't even like you.”

His eyes glinted with a hint of mischief. “We both know that isn’t true, don’t we?”

“Oh, it’s true.”

“Liar.” He tugged again. “Are you truly going to make a wounded man beg?”

“Éomer.”

“What?” He brought your hand to his lips, to your surprise, brushed its back with a kiss and murmured, “Please?”

You stared down at him for a long moment. “You are supposed to be injured.”

“I am injured. Nearly twenty stitches are holding that wound closed. But somehow, I don't think I’ll mind being trapped in this bed, if I have someone to share it with.”

Your heart fluttered. “Éomer. You are in an infirmary.”

“I know, but I’m in my own room, as you see.” He smiled. “No one will bother us and I promise to keep my hands to myself.”

With that, his smile grew mischievous. “Unless, of course, you’d rather I didn’t. And then, the next time I see you in the great hall or the yard, I’ll just look across at you and smile and only you will know why.”

You sighed softly and then, after a quick look about, gingerly stretched out alongside him, your heart beating faster as he drew his arm about your shoulders to tug you closer. You peered up at him. “And why will I be smiling?”

His eyes glinted with that same hint of mischief that let loose even more butterflies in your belly. “You’ll see.”

With that, he caught you beneath the chin with one bent finger, lifting your face ever so slightly and as his lips captured yours, you smiled. “You aren’t going anywhere come morning, you know.”

He broke the teasing kiss to gaze down at you. “Is that so?”

“It is,” you nodded, “because you have some very real making up to me to do. And I’m fairly certain it will take longer than a few hours."

“Making up to you, you say?” One dark brow arched and his smile grew wicked with promise. “I think that’s fair enough.”

***

Like it? Love it? Comment and reblog to spread it around!

#eomer #karl urban #LOTR #august mashup #august prompts #fotfics august event #sotwk asks #pixie answers #Éomer x reader #Éomer x you #LOTR AU

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thegreatstoryteller · 1 year

Text

The Great Shift: Friendsgiving

“So we’ve got the turkey in the oven, the mashed potatoes being mashed, yams ready for serving, and gravy on the stove top! Am I missing anything?” Reggie asked looking eagerly at his boyfriend Roth.

“Nope! You’ve got everything honey. It’s gonna be fine. I already have dessert in the fridge and drink ready to pour. Tonight is gonna be great, you’ve got nothing to worry about.” Roth consoled, looking up at his concerned man while rubbing the his lower back. His eager hands couldn’t resist pulling at the shorts Reggie liked to wear around the house when he went shirtless.

“I know.. I know.... it’s just been such a long time since we all got together. I’d been keeping up with Chan a bit... but the others only briefly... What.... has it been 3 years since the Great Shift?” Reggie said sullenly as if recounting the time.

“It sure has been. 3 years since the world went full on swap crazy... and 3 years since I got lucky enough to be swapped so close to you.” Roth smirked hugging his boyfriend lovingly.

Reggie smiled as he turned to gaze down into his boyfriend’s beautiful brown eyes, covered by glasses he didn’t originally need till it all happened. He couldn’t believe his luck. Nearly 3 Thanksgivings ago his friends Roth, Chan, Phil, Monty, and Joseph were all eager to be in town for their family’s celebrations. They were close all throughout high school and college and wanted were finally all in the same place. But then the shift happened. Reggie was in the kitchen helping his mom out with a meal when suddenly he was somewhere else entirely.... in someone else! He was having the most intimate moment he’d ever experienced with one of the most handsome men he’d ever seen! For the nerdy one of his group Reggie had never gotten remotely intimate with anyone, but now it was as if his body was moving on auto pilot. Thrusting, moaning, and kissing like a top notch adult film actor!

It was only after the most satisfying hour off passionate love making that he managed to come down from that high. The next few minutes were furious explanations and apologies, that were immediately shushed by who Reggie later learned was Roth! The former nerd couldn’t believe his straight best friend who played football and was a notorious ladies man was this incredibly cute African American twink who he’d just been inside of! Not to mention the glasses and Pokémon necklace completing the whole new nerdy look!

And when Reggie finally got a good look at himself there was no trace of the former nerd. Hard muscles and broad shoulders were the only thing anyone would see when they stared at him now. That and a handsome face, framed perfectly with his new Asian features. People would say he could be a model with that physique and bone structure, but his shy nature wouldn’t call for anything more than attention from his soon to be boyfriend.

Needless to say the rest was history. The two survived the strange transition from great shift craziness back to normal lives and had been living together and getting closer the entire time. Reggie as the newly Asian 6′2 fitness model. Roth as the nerdy 5′4 twink who had a knack for admiring his boyfriend’s body.

Soon the doorbell broke Reggie’s train of thought. “Oh that must be them! Mind taking the turkey out babe? I’m gonna get the door!” Reggie directed as he strode towards the doorway. When Reggie opened up he was greeted by the open smoldering smile of Chan.

“S’up guys. Great to see you. Looking good there Reggie. Guess I’m not the only one who’s been hitting the gym since the change! Now that I’m back in town maybe we can start working out again.” Chan smirked, his once thicker accent gone with time and apparently a new body.

Reggie simply hugged his friend still inwardly surprised. He’d kept up with Chan, but he hadn’t seen any pictures that would suggest he was now a white guy. Chan had been the second nerdiest of the group and a Chinese immigrant, originally meeting his friends when his parents moved for work. He stayed in college under a student visa and after they graduated was worried he’d be unable to continue living nearby when he couldn’t find work right away. Well then the shift happened landing him in the most American body he could think of with a thick East Coast accent!

“It was actually funny. When it happened I thought I was in some kind of dream, but it happened to be true. Once identities were being re-established I had to explain who I was and they had a hard time wanting to deport a guy who could barely speak Mandarin or Kantonese! Still sucks how I’m one of those guys who had that dang language aphasia post swap the prevents me from knowing words that my current body didn’t know. But hey, I may not be a language major anymore, but I at least got some solid work! Have to hold back saying things like ‘forget about it’ these days. It’s like a weird verbal compulsion, y’know?” Chan explained as he got inside to greet Roth.

Then the doorbell chimed once more and two larger men were there.

“Hey Reggie!... that is you right?” the first larger man said. The signature casual grin on that face was unmistakably Phil! There seemed to be no sign of his tall skinny friend who loved to smoke pot in the basement. “Y-yeah. This is me. Wow Phil! It’s great to see you again. Come on in.” The larger man laughed. “Don’t worry. I’ve seen that face all around town when I re introduce myself to people! I know I’ve put on some weight since you last saw me. I’ve been embracing my new dad bod these days, especially my new appetite! When I first got into this guy I was surprised to say the least. Not every day you gain over 100lbs and are sitting in front of some corporate desk job. And I lost my long silky hair! But hey, I’ve got this kickass beard now and a beefier bod! Not bad being 6′4 with these huge thick feet. They’re size 15 if you can believe! And of course I’m at least not alone. Monty is in the same big guy boat as me.”

Phil stepped aside as if to hide the pretty obvious big guy behind him.

“Yeah. Hi. Good to see you again Reggie. I take it Roth and Chan are already inside?” Monty asked. This larger guy looked less comfortable in his skin. Clothes clearly tight over his larger body.

“Yeah of course. They’re just in the kitchen. Dinner is about to be served soon.” Reggie explained as the two large bellies before him rumbled in excitement. “Gosh this embarrassing.” Monty winced. “I used to be the lean put together one of our group and now I can barely contain myself whenever someone mentions food.... a lot of things taste real good now... but I just can’t keep the weight off. I keep trying to do exercises and diets, but my self control isn’t what it used to be... but it’s at least good to see friends and... well Chan is always looking good these days.” Monty blushes. He was once a lean 5′10 with a runner’s build, and while he’d maintained his height it was now enlarged with a hefty coating of hair and fat.

Reggie wasn’t sure what to make of this but lead the two larger men to the table as Chan joined them. As the three friends caught up Reggie went back to the kitchen to see his smaller boyfriend struggling with taking the big turkey out of the oven.

“Here let me lend you a hand.” Reggie offered as he effortlessly grabbed some oven mitts and lifted the meal with ease.

“Thanks babe,” Roth smiled. “I forget I’m not as strong as I used to be. Chan offered to do some workouts later this week. Maybe I’ll join him! Get some of my old physique back.” Roth patted his lean arms of non existent muscle.

“I’d love that Roth. You’re the one who showed me how to maintain this body while the world was still going mad. I couldn’t have got through all that without you.” Reggie admitted with a blush.

“Hey, we got each other through all that.” Roth pulled his boyfriend in for another one of their legendary kisses, both men feeling the other stir with pleasure. When they release Roth smirked. “Now how about we get out there and serve them a delicious meal.” Reggie nodded excitedly and the two came out with the food.

It was clear for anyone at the table to see that Chan and Monty were making eyes at each other, but even that was broken when the food was placed and the feast began.

“Had anyone heard from Joey? I was hoping he’d come by too.” Roth asked as he passed the mashed potatoes.

“Oh you hadn’t heard?” Chan said. “Joey is going by Joseph now. He’s been all over social media ever since he turned into that hot straight guy. Look here’s his latest post.” Chan produced his phone and showed them a classic social media post with a cringe caption.

“Thankful for my busty babe Jessica for snapping me before my morning workout in Milan. #blessed #truefriends”

“Woah is that really Joey?” Reggie stared wide eyed. The Joey he knew was an outspoken gay man who was advocating for rights, while attending Pride! He was a shorter guy who had no problem grabbing people’s attention too. Granted he knew he was a bit of a horny twink at times, but still. The guy he was seeing seemed to post countless shirtless pics with beautiful women left and right. His latest post suggested he was traveling abroad with a collection of different hot women offering him places to stay throughout his trip.

“It really is. I tried to get him to come but he just said he had more babes to meet up and knew we’d understand.” Chan scoffed with disappointment.

Roth just shook his head. “What a jerk. Guess some people really let the shift change em for the worse.”

“Aw come on. Let’s not let o’l joey get us down.” Phil said patting the smaller guy on the back, nearly knocking him off the chair. “We got a whole table to be thankful for this year! And i’m not talking just about the food!”

They all laughed, comforted by Phil’s familiar light heartedness. “I’m just saying. We survived a weird time in human history and are still friends. I’m real lucky to have you guys here and wouldn’t change it for the world.”

“Now that sounded like a cheers. How about we raise a glass?” Monty suggested.

“I like the sound of that.” Chan nodded as he held Monty’s thick hand under the table, causing both men to blush.

“To the people in our lives! And the one’s we’re lucky enough to call friends!” Phil cheered.

“Cheers!” “Salud!” “Here here!”

The group of friends continued to eat happy for the things they could be thankful for and were hoping for even more moments like this to share.

#thegreatstoryteller #body swap #age progression #gay to straight #Sexuality change #straight to gay #race change #racial change #The Great Shift

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snowdice · 2 months

Text

Unplanned Consequences (Part 3: Remy) [Sometimes Labels Shift Series]

Fandom: Sanders Sides

Relationships: Remy & Logan, (background) Remy/Emile

Characters: Remy, Logan, Emile (briefly)

Summary: Remy is asked to help with something.

Notes: This takes place after Best Laid Plans

Part 1 Part 2

When the doorbell to the safe house rang, Remy found himself flinching to his own embarrassment. However, when he looked at Emile over the little kitchen table, the tension around his eyes told him he wasn’t the only one on edge.

“Probably just someone trying to sell us solar power panels,” Remy said. “I’ll go tell them we rent.”

Emile nodded and followed him without a word. He picked up the gun that had been laying on the table between them and carried it with him. Remy knew Emile wasn’t exactly a fan of guns, so seeing him pick it up with so little hesitation both made him feel better and worse.

Emile hung back out of sight of the door while Remy approached, though he did his best to stay where he thought his shadow couldn’t be seen through the pulled curtain on the front door window. Cautiously he stretched so he could glance out of the curtain.

The fear that had been rolling in his stomach swiftly transitioned into being pissed off.

He almost ripped the door off its hinges. He probably would have if Logan was any worse at picking safe houses. “What the fuck are you doing here?”

Logan himself in all his dumb motherfucking beaten to hell glory was sitting (not standing because Remy was well aware he had a broken leg) outside the safe house.

“Good evening, Remington,” he said irritatingly calmly. He was in a wheelchair. What had Patton been thinking getting him a wheelchair? Now he was mobile. And a mobile Logan, as was evident, was an idiot.

“Give me one reason,” Remy said, gripping the door frame so hard he was afraid he might bend it, structurally sound or no, “not to finish the job right now you bitch.”

“There is a task that must be done, and Patton is not in the mental state to do it.”

“And you’re in the physical state to do it?!” Remy asked. “How the fuck did you even get here?”

“I designed my vehicle years ago for adequate functionality no matter what my physical and mental state,” Logan explained. Remy glanced behind him to see a car he’d never seen before and didn’t recognize the make or model of at all.

“You have a concussion, dumbass.”

“It is mostly self-driving when needed,” Logan waved him off.

“Mostly?! I fucking hate you.”

Emile had approached, sans gun after hearing the conversation going on. “Perhaps we should keep this conversation quieter,” he suggested, in a more level tone.

“That is likely for the best,” Logan agreed.

“You can shut your mouth,” Remy snapped at him, though he did keep his tone quieter. “Why don’t we go inside?”

He realized his mistake instantly when Logan glanced meaningly at the porch steps. Right. That explained why the man hadn’t used his complicated secret knock. He couldn’t get up onto the porch and was likely still suffering from power exhaustion. Fucker shouldn’t have even put forth the effort to ring the doorbell. “Or I’ll just come to your car,” Remy said, glancing back at Emile. Emile nodded and stepped back into the house.

Remy went down the steps and whacked Logan’s hands away from the wheelchair wheels.

“I managed to get here,” Logan reminded him, a little bit grumpy which was actually a nice change from the businesslike tone he’d been taking so far.

“You are supposed to be on bedrest, so fuck you,” Remy replied, moving to push him towards the car. “Now how do you get in and out of this thing?”

“Step back,” Logan said. Remy did with a raised eyebrow and then had to bite his tongue to keep from making a loud exclamation of shock. It went too fast for him to quite make out what happened and if he didn’t know better, it looked like the car basically just… swallowed Logan wheelchair and all. In a blink, Logan was in the driver’s seat.

Remy gaped at him for a moment before shaking himself and rounding the car to get into the passenger seat the normal way.

“Okay,” Remy said, once seated. “Explain to me why I’m not driving you immediately back to Patton so he can put you into a medically induced coma until you heal.”

“Well, for starters, I am in the driver’s seat.”

Remy rolled his eyes.

Logan took a breath. “I am very injured,” he said. “In a way I cannot hide in my personal life. At this point, it seems unlikely we are already compromised. Delaying returning to our normal lives is very quickly becoming more of a risk to our identities than continuing to hide.”

“And?”

“We need to crash my personal car,” Logan said, “and I need to go to the emergency room.”

“Oh… shit.”

“Will you help me?”

“Well,” Remy said, “I’m not letting Patton or Virgil for that matter do it, so I fucking guess.”

“If it helps, I believe my powers have recovered enough that neither of us will need to be in the car during the crash.”

“It doesn’t help. I hadn’t even been considering that. Fuck you.”

Logan was silent, giving him a moment.

Remy took a deep breath. Man, this had been a fucking disaster of a few days.

“You better…” he said. “You better get better soon, so I can beat the shit out of you myself. Okay?”

Logan didn’t say anything for a long moment. He just stared out of the windshield with an expression on his face Remy couldn’t identify. It was a bit terrifying.

“I appreciate it,” Logan finally said. “You are a good friend.”

“Yeah, well,” Remy said. “Fuck.”

“‘Fuck’ is a good summary of recent events,” Logan said. “At least it’s a better summary than I can come up with.”

Remy snorted out a laugh and shook his head.

Logan moved his hands on the car wheel very slightly and Remy was startled when the car hummed to life under them.

“We will also need to cover for the fact that my injuries are already beginning to heal once I get to the hospital,” Logan said.

“Yeah, I can handle that for you too,” Remy promised. It would be a long night, but not the longest one in recent memory.

Want to read more? Click below!

Labeled Master Post.

My Masterpost.

#sanders sides #logan sanders #remy sanders #labeled universe #sometimes labels shift #adriana writes #not pieces fic

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fuctacles · 1 year

Text

So i made that post some time ago...

Maxine was nearing the rebellious teenage years Steve was so scared of. She was already a feisty kid when he met her all these years ago, slingshotting cans off tree branches and fighting with her brother, and she made no sign of stopping. She was a savage on a skateboard, crashed other kids in arcade games and looked up to strong female role models, like Wonder Woman. Steve was happy to call her his daughter. Even if she hated it.

She liked to spend time actively, so he wasn’t surprised when she got into sports. It was a thing they could bond over. Recently, though, all she could talk about was music. She was pestering him about getting her a guitar, and he was slowly warming up to the idea. Robin, of course, was encouraging it.

He already took her to a music store, grabbing a couple of cassettes that made him dread the worst. She picked some rock bands and while Steve didn’t want to play on these stereotypes, he wasn’t thrilled to think she may become one of these brooding alternative kids dressed in black. She was feisty, but she was a radiating sun that he would rather keep burning than get shrouded by dark clouds.

And so when he heard the door slam loudly, he sighed softly, recognising an end of an era when he heard it.

Max stomped into the kitchen, fuming.

“They are cutting down the art department funds,” she said without prompting, her bag dropped unceremoniously on the floor.

That was not what he was expecting.

“What?” he frowned, watching her open the fridge and grab a box of chocolate milk. She angrily stabbed it with the straw.

“Exactly! They are transforming the practice room into a gym, and Mr Eddie had to move all the instruments into his class and the drama club.”

And there it was. The famous Mr Eddie. He was the reason Max took a sudden interest in music, and apparently, now the reason she was so furious about school funding injustice. Steve sighed.

“Unfortunately, the school thinks liberal arts aren’t as important as sports.”

Max’s eyes narrowed as she studied him. Her gaze slid down to his ancient swimming team hoodie.

“But you don’t think so?” Right?” Her eyes narrowed threateningly. Steve scoffed.

“I might have been a jock in high school, but my best friend plays in an orchestra. I think the funds should be divided equally.”

“Good,” Max drew out like she was content for now, but he wasn’t completely off the hook yet. She sat down in front of him, sipping from the milk box and studying him. “All the after-school practice has to be done at the drama club, which makes the schedule really tight. You know Mr Eddie used to give guitar lessons there? Now he’ll have to do house calls.”

“Mhm,” Steve nodded, eyeing her wearily. He flipped the page of the magazine he wasn’t reading.

“Mr Eddie used to practice there with his band too.”

“Mhm.”

“Now he has nowhere to do so.”

“Poor guy.”

“He said he’s looking for a place to practice. Told us to ask our parents.”

“Max…”

“We have a big garage.”

“Max.”

“Steve.”

He sighed.

“I’ll think about it. If he doesn’t find a better place, he can give me a call.”

Max let out a victorious whoop, but he held out his hand to stop her.

“Max, I’m serious. Only as a last option.”

“Fine,” she rolled her eyes.

And so, about a week later, Steve was picking up his phone to an unfamiliar voice.

“Mr Harrington? I’m Eddie Munson, Max’s music teacher. She told me you have some garage space I could borrow?”

Steve looked at the ceiling, leaning against the wall.

“Did she say it was only a last resort thing?”

The man on the other side chuckled.

“Oh, believe me, I wouldn’t be bothering one of my student’s parents if I had other options.”

“Okay. What do you need then?”

“I’ll take whatever you can give me, honestly. I’m kind of desperate,” the man sighed, and Steve felt a bit bad. The guy just wanted someplace to practice his craft.

“Okay, okay. So… I have a two-car garage space, but it’s only my car and I can park at the curb, you could have the whole space to yourself. I’m home most afternoons, so as long as you’re not too loud and give me a heads-up, any day works.”

“Hello?” he frowned when only silence answered him, but soon the man on the other side was laughing.

“Wow, you’re just as nice as Mad Max claimed.”

“She did? I thought I was, and I quote, ‘a raisin in her cereal’.”

The other man burst out laughing and Steve smiled.

“Ah, I’m not going to reveal her soft spots any further then.”

“Maybe I should show you the place before you commit? It might not be big enough for your needs.”

The man on the other side hummed in thought.

“Yeah, good thinking. Is today fine? I’m finishing in a couple of hours.”

“Sure. Do you have something to write, I’ll give you the address.”

Three hours later, the doorbell rang and Steve wiped his hands on the towel to open the door.

Eddie Munson was nothing that he expected from a music teacher, but after a second thought was what he should have expected from a music teacher who Max said was cool.

“Eddie Munson,” the man introduced himself, extending his hand full of chunky metal rings.

“Steve Harrington,” Steve shook it, the fingers unexpectedly rough against his skin.

The guy was of a smaller build than him, on par with his profession. His long hair was tied back, revealing a row of silver earrings. He was wearing a band tee and a leather jacket. He didn’t look like a teacher at all.

Steve motioned him inside.

“Come on, I’ll show you the garage.”

“It’s not in the basement, right? Should I be worried?”

Steve gave him a puzzled look.

“You know, leading a stranger to your basement to never be heard of again?” Munson explained.

Steve raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, maybe not with the hawks I have for neighbours. Probably half the street knows I have a guest by now. So I better let you out at some point.”

“Some of these suburban moms should really get a job, huh?”

“They should, yeah.” Steve nodded, leading him through the kitchen to a plain side door. he opened it and flipped a switch. “Soo, that’s it. Would that work for you?”

The teacher stepped in, passing by Steve to look around. The garage was big, made for two cars, with only Steve’s Beamer taking up half the space. Besides some spare tires and boxes of Christmas decorations, there was nothing else inside.

The man spread his arms, spinning around. Steve let out a surprised snort. The guy was probably his age and a teacher on top of that.

“That would be great, Mr Harrington! Are you sure about that? Like, sure-sure?” He stood in front of him, and Steve’s mind has already been set, even without the hope glistening in the man’s eyes.

“I’m a man of my word,” he nodded.

Munson swayed on his heels.

“We play metal, though? Might not be your thing.” He smiled weakly, like he was expecting a rejection. Steve frowned at him.

“If they let you do it in school, I think my garage will be fine. I have headphones, too.”

Munson beamed at him, dimples at all. And it was like a punch in the gut, a feeling he hadn’t felt since Max’s brother.

“Thank you.”

“No problem,” he nodded stiffly, blinded by the soft metalhead in front of him. What did Max get him into?

Speak of the devil, there was a distant slam of the front door from the inside of the house. Steve winced.

“Want me to let you out this way,” he pointed to the garage door. “She won’t let you go that easy.”

Mr Munson only laughed.

“It’s not a problem. Mad Max is one of my favourite students.”

“I thought teachers aren’t supposed to play favourites?”

“I’m not the teacherest out there, truth be told.”

Steve eyed his ripped jeans.

“I can see that.”

He led them back to the kitchen, where Max was hidden head-first in the fridge. She leaned back when she heard the steps, and her eyes widened at the sight of two men.

“Mr Eddie!” She slammed the fridge close, and Steve winced as he heard the bottles inside rattle against one another. “You’ll be using our garage?”

“Seems so, kiddo.”

Max made a victorious fist pump.

“Mike’s gonna be so jealous!”

Munson let out a startled laugh, while Steve scrunched his nose.

“Don’t tell that’s all this is about. I thought we were doing something nice for Mr Munson.”

“We are, we are!” she placated him quickly, waving her hands. “Pissing off Mike is just a bonus. A very nice bonus.” She grinned sweetly.

“You’re, um…” Steve looked to the side to see the man scratching his cheek awkwardly. “The only parent who agreed. Most of them don’t trust me because I play metal.”

“Steve isn’t like that!” Max reassured quickly. “He’s not a judgmental bigot!”

Steve gawked at her choice of words while Munson laughed.

“A judgmental bigot wouldn’t raise such a great kid.”

“Duh.” Max beamed and Steve warmed all over.

Being a single father was frowned upon even without their backstory. And Max’s attitude usually fuelled negative comments about his parenting. So it was nice to hear something good for a change. Maybe Steve could even make a new friend in this shitty town.

The teacher stayed for a coffee and insisted on being called Eddie. Steve found out he and his band had a show in a few weeks and were planning a small tour across the state over the upcoming break. But most of the visit was just him listening to Max and her teacher talking about bands he had no idea about.

“I’ll tell the boys, and we could come over on Thursday? If that’s okay,” Eddie cocked his head as they led him to the door.

“Sure. Works for me.”

“Sweet,” Eddie smiled, and again it did something pleasant to Steve’s heart. “See you tomorrow then, Red.” He fist-bumped the girl. “And you, Steve,” he raised his fist towards him. It took Steve a second to react and knock it with his own, but Eddie didn’t seem to mind. He waved at them, and soon Steve was watching a ratty black van speed away from his curb.

“I told you he was cool!”

“Uh-huh.” Steve closed the door. “You did.”

#single dad steve #steddie ficlet #steddie au #steddie fanfiction #steddie #stranger things #steve harrington #steddie ff #music teacher eddie munson #teacher eddie munson #single dad x teacher #eddie munson #st #st4 #the backstory is billy and steve were kinda on and off dating and after billy died steve got custody of max

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alyswritings · 2 years

Text

Role Model

Request: Hiii 💚 I was wondering if you could write a fic about Holland!sister who’s 10 years younger than Tom but incredibly clingy to him and he wonders why and then finds out that it’s because she sees him as a role model? 🥺🥺🥺 Thank you 💚

Tom Holland x sister!reader

Summary: Tom finds out why his sister is always attached to him.

Warnings: just fluff!

a/n: thank you @lokislittleprincess for the request!! hope you all enjoy!!

(gif not mine)

When Y/N was born, Tom was excited to have a little sister. After three brothers, he was glad to have a sister as a change of pace. He'd do anything to ensure her happiness and he always said she was the cutest baby.

Tom loves his job, but he does hate being away from home and his family. So when he gets to come home he tries to spend as much time as possible with them, and his friends.

Y/N is always ecstatic whenever Tom is home and almost never leaves his side. If she had a say in it, she'd probably be next to him every second of every day.

Y/N goes into the kitchen and finds Tom and Harry in there, talking about something golf related. One thing Y/N could never get into was golf, despite her brothers and dad's constantly trying to interest her, but always failing.

Y/N grabs a handful of Oreos and then walks over to Tom. She hooks her arm through his, listening to Harry rant about how he should've won the last time they went golfing.

Tom realizes what Y/N has and quickly grabs an Oreo and stuffs it in his mouth. Y/N looks at him in betrayal, Tom innocently grinning at her. She rolls her eyes, putting the cookies on the counter and placing her hand over them.

"I'm gonna beat you when we play on Saturday." Harry insists.

"Mm-hmm. Yeah, sure." Tom nods, obviously not believing Harry's words.

"Can I go?" Y/N asks. Her two brothers share a look before turning to her.

"You... you wanna go golfing?" Harry asks with a small chuckle.

"Yeah." Y/N nods, the two brothers sharing another look. "What? Because it's so absurd?"

"Coming from you, love... yeah, a little bit." Tom nods.

"Well... maybe I'm just trying new things." Y/N says.

"We've been trying to get you into golf for years." Harry remarks.

"Okay, so... maybe I just wanna give it another shot." Y/N says.

"I don't see a problem with it." Tom says and Y/N smiles, but refrains from the grin she wants to show.

"Okay. But if she starts complaining, you're dealing with her." Harry states. Tom salutes him.

"I gotta go get some stuff from the store. I'll be back later." Tom informs.

"Can I go?" Y/N asks.

"You wanna go grocery shopping?" Tom asks.

"If you're going." Y/N says.

"Yeah, okay, sure. Could always use the company. Go get a jacket." Tom says. Y/N nods, rushing upstairs, her Oreos forgotten on the counter.

"Little shadow, huh, Tom?" Harry asks, popping an Oreo into his mouth.

"Must just be her favorite brother." Tom grins making Harry roll his eyes.

- - -

Tom and Y/N are in the store and Y/N is pushing the cart, often getting on it to let it roll for a bit.

"So, I have a question." Tom says, looking through the frozen pizza options.

"What?" Y/N asks.

"I'm not trying to make it sound rude or like I hate it, but... why are you so attached to me?" Tom asks.

"Why? Is it annoying you?" Y/N worriedly asks and Tom spots the fear in her eyes.

"No. No, no, no, no. Love, no. I'm okay with it. I promise, I love you and I love spending time with you. I'm just curious. You know, usually kids your age would die if they were seen with family in public." Tom says.

"Guess I'm just a nicer thirteen year old than the others." Y/N says and Tom chuckles.

"Perhaps. But you're mostly clinging to me. I mean, I know I'm gone a lot and I get it, but so is Harry. I don't see you stuck to him." Tom says, putting the frozen pizza in the cart and they start to move again.

"I... I don't know." Y/N shrugs, looking down at the cart.

"You avoiding eye contact means you know and don't wanna say it." Tom says. "You wanna go golfing with us, you have to know."

"I just... I look up to you." Y/N mumbles quietly. Tom almost doesn't catch it, but realizes last second what she said. Tom stops walking making Y/N stop once she realizes.

"Really?" Tom asks.

"Uh... ye--yeah." Y/N gives a small nod. She looks down at her hands nervously. "I don't know. You just... you're admirable, I guess. You... you followed your dreams and and with the whole Brothers Trust stuff and everything. And you're nice and selfless and, uh... and all that. We had to write about role models one time in class and I... I wrote about you."

Tom can't keep the happy grin off his face, his eyes shining full of love for his baby sister. He starts laughing quietly making Y/N look up and she rolls her eyes.

"Okay, I-- I shouldn't have said anything. Can we go?" Y/N starts to leave, but Tom stops her.

"No, no, no. Wait." Tom pulls her back to face him and sees the tears she's holding back. "Darling, I'm not... I'm sorry. I'm not laughing at you." He assures, cupping her face.

"Well why else would you be laughing after everything I just said?" Y/N says, stomping her foot on the ground.

"I... I don't know how to explain it. Just... just out of love and... and I'm a little overwhelmed, I guess." Tom says, gaining a confused look from his sister. "I didn't know you looked up to me like that."

"Well, it's not a usual conversation topic, so." Y/N mutters.

"I'm not making fun of you or anything. I'm sorry it seemed like it. I'm... I'm happy you look up to me. I feel honored." He smiles at her warmly.

"Really?" Y/N asks.

"Yeah." Tom nods, pulling her into a hug. He feels her tightly hug him back and Tom rests his chin on her head. "Do you have that paper? About your role model?"

"Mm-hmm." Y/N nods as they pull away from the hug.

"Could I, uh... could I read it?" Tom asks.

"Sure." Y/N smiles.

"Okay. Cool." Tom smiles back at her. "Come on, let's finish up. That ice cream's gonna melt." he says before kissing her forehead.

Taglist: @glxwingrxse @peyton-14

#tom holland #tom holland x sister reader #tom holland x sister!reader #holland!sister

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guavagyu · 1 year

Text

blush - y.jh

this is part 3 of the eyeshadow series!

request: “request: jeonghan fanfic where new stylist/makeup artist and jeonghan fall in love? slow burn, sexual tension, secret relationship typa thang ;) <3!”

smut probably next or 2nd next part? idk

ITALIC WORDS REPRESENT THOUGHTS!

[prev.] [next]

wc: 970

contents: slice of life ig, fluff, humor (im such a comedian el em eff ay oh), afab!reader, tall!reader (178 cm or 5’10), stylist!reader, makeup-artist!reader, model!jeonghan, swearing, non-idol!au, swearing, lmk if there r more!

recap:

yup. this is great. gotta clean. ugh why did i agree to my place?? you just decided to let later-you to worry about it and prepared for bed.

——

friday - y/n’s pov!

——

@hannie_hae:

hi! you still up for 3:00? :)

fuck. your phone read 2:17 pm. you had gotten distracted from all of your other friday endeavors, and jeonghan’s visit totally slipped your mind. you rushed to get off the couch, and begin to clean. you had until 2:30, and then you’d take the shortest shower of all eternity, and then hastily make yourself presentable. ‘A+’ for planning skills, a big fat ‘F’ for time management. and so, all that planning was what you did. you practically ran around your apartment with a vacuum whilst spraying the couches with leather cleaner. after grabbing two rags, one to wipe the tables and the couches down, you moved on to the mop for the kitchen. you clorox-wiped more than anyone had ever clorox-wiped. the clock read 2:27. wow, i probably broke some sort of record. so, you had an extra 2-ish minutes to waste in the shower. just kidding, you had to be as quick as possible, it’d be horrible for jeonghan to arrive before you were ready.

god damn, the clock read 2:54 and you were more finished than gordon ramsay’s beef wellington. your hair was dry, and looked amazing. your makeup was subtle, and your tshirt and sweatpants were..okay maybe not the best wardrobe choice, but it’s not like you’re visiting a 3 michelin star restaurant, allow yourself to be comfortable in your own home!

the clock just turned to 3:01 when jeonghan knocked on your door,

“hi! come in,” you smiled, silently relieved for him to be just as casual as you were. a black hoodie, grey sweatpants, and some sneakers. he gave you a small "hi!" and took off his shoes, "uh, you can sit on the couch, please make yourself at home! ill be right back, ill get some makeup stuff," you walked back to your bathroom while jeonghan unpacked the things he brought with him and settled down on the couch, looking around everywhere, tapping his fingers on the arm, waiting for your return. and a few minutes later, you returned with..a lot of makeup, to say the least,

"woah, that's a lot," jeonghan giggled, making you laugh,

"yeah,"

"um..how long do you think we'll need for all of this?" he asked,

"oh, we don't have to do all of this, just more options," you gave a small smile as you organized them into their respective categories,

"oh okay, i mean i have time, i was just curious, it's not that i dont want to be here i-" he rambled on, clearly a bit flustered, his ears and cheeks tinting an adorable pink,

"jeonghan, you're fine, let's just get on with it, alright?" you put your hand on top of his, calming him down a little bit,

"o-okay," he smiled, blushing harder but giving a small thumbs up, cute,

"awesome, where should we start? what concepts should we practice?" you looked through the outrageously large pile (that had been organized by you),

"let's start simple, maybe let's just work with colors for now, how about blue?" jeonghan suggested,

"whatever you feel like is fine by me," and you started on a simple blue themed look,

----

2 hours later, 5:09 pm

----

after 2 hours of trying out makeup looks, palettes littering the table, a pile of used makeup wipes in a trash can,

"alright, i think that's enough for your skin today," you smiled, noticing his reddening face, "did i do too much?"

"no no, you're fine, don't worry," jeonghan reassured you, giving the cutest giggle ever,

"okay, if you say so. can i get you some water or anything? we've been sitting for a while," you asked, realizing you forgot to offer when he first arrived,

"yeah, some water would be great!" he smiled, leaning back into the cushions,

"sure!" you headed to the kitchen, soon returning with a glass of water, "that good?"

"it's awesome, thanks!" ugh, is he always this cute? it makes me want to pin him down and- woah. that was, um, wow. that was quite the intrusive thought if i do say so myself. ha. ha. ha. during this thought segment of yours, you ended up zoning out..directly staring at jeonghan, causing him to be flustered, confused, then concerned. he thought there was something on his face, but after calling your name out a few times,

"hey, y/n?" he waved a hand in front of your face, knocking you back to reality,

"huh? what? im so sorry, just zoned out for a bit," you awkwardly laughed, flustered from your thoughts,

"you're good, but i think i'm going to head out now, thank you so much for having me over!" he smiled again, ugh that smile is going to kill me,

"no problem, anytime! make sure you don't forget anything here," you said as you prepared to open the door,

"yup, got everything, thanks again!" he gave the most adorable wave as he walked through the door, leaving, making you return to gather your makeup, put the trash can back, and collapse on the couch. you sigh, a smile settling on your face from what seemed to be a successful meeting. but..those thoughts you had were quite interesting.

jeonghan's pov!

holy shit. thank the lord i was able to leave before i had a meltdown. why did i think that me being close to y/n for so long would be okay for me to handle? wait..when they stared at me..were they actually starting at ME? or..did they actually zone out? fuck, why am i stuck with y/n? it's only sooner or later they find out about my dumbass crush on them

y/n's pov!

what the hell was i thinking? zoning out like that while staring at him? jeonghan probably thinks he’s stuck working with a creep. this is great.

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scarisd3ad · 7 months

Text

Promptober day 15 - sneaking into a closed fazbears pizzaria

Pairing - none just a spooky little fic

Warnings - regular fnaf warnings

Promptober ‘23 masterlist

Main masterlist

Taglist

Freddy fazbears pizza was a popular restaurant chain, well at least where I was from. it was popular with kids, parents and even teenagers but for different reasons. But the chain got shut down back in 83 leaving a big, abandoned building with who knows what left inside. When the restaurant shut down back in 83 that when the teenagers in the area started to break in check out the areas meant for staff only and mess around with the animatronics. Thank God for the stupid night guard that would forgetfully leave the back door unlocked before falling asleep in their office.

I stared up at the sign that used to be lit up it read, "Freddy fazbear's Pizzaria'. I grew up at this place even other week on Fridays my mother would take me and my siblings there after she got off. She would get to eat while my siblings and I would run around playing on the arcade machines and interacting the mascots. "c'mon I'm not waiting here all day" I snap out of my trance and look over to my friend Tracy who has a flashlight in her hand as she held the back door open for me. "ri-right yeah I'm coming" I mutter as I walk through the back door and into the kitchen.

there were bunches, and bunches of industrial sized pizza ovens lined the walls. I guess with a thriving pizza business like this one used to be you'd need as many pizza ovens as possible. "You think the animatronics actually move around at night?" Tracy asks as the door slams shut behind her. the animatronics were big chunky things that were probably bolted to the floor there was no way they could move unless they were in costume mode, and there were only few that could do that. the golden bonnie, and Freddy models that I heard were completely phased out after '83 before the shutdown.

we walk through the building flashing the flashlight down the hallways to make sure no one was there. we walk into the main area that had big tables that were lined in big layer of dust and the 3 main animatronics on a big stage that had an equal amount of dust on it. it reeked in here like dead body or something. Freddy, Chica, and bonnie stood menacingly up on that stage. it felt like they were staring at us. "Oh, fuck it stinks in here" Tracy groans as she covered her nose. I wondered why they kept the animatronics here, they could have just thrown them out, but they still sat here like they were just waiting to reopen.

"I wonder why this place closed" I sigh as I reach my hand out as draw a line in the layer of dust on the table. no one knew why the place closed, there were some allegations of the owners going bankrupt, and some of unfit conditions for workers and health department issues. but if any of that did happen the owners kept it all under wraps not mentioning anything to the public. "One of the owners kid got bit here, by one of the animatronics so they closed it" I rolled my eyes there was no way that would've happened I would've heard about it in the new or something. "Seriously Tyler said he was here when it happened, the kids' older brother real bully stuffed his younger brother in Freddy's mouth squeezed those poor kids so hard it pow."

I almost puke at how Tracy describes it. "there's no way that happened" I say as I walk towards the animatronics "Tyler is a liar" I step up onto the stage to get a better look. "Billy also said he was here same story" Tracy said. "They must be making it-…." I'm looking up at the bear it towers over me, but I can still get a good enough look at its face to see the blood matted into the fur. "Holy shit" the blood and is that brain matter stuck in its mouth. "wha-what is it?" I can hear Tracy's sneakers against the floor as she walks towards me. "there's blood on him" I whisper, "holy shit" Tracy laughs as she hops up onto the stage. she gets up on her tip toes to look up at Freddy face. she lights runs her hands on the side of his face near the blood "holy shit" she mutters.

"Le-lets go look for foxy" I whisper as I hop off of the stage, "mhm yeah sure, foxy was always my favorite" Tracy mumbles as she too hops off of the stage, her feet making a loud boom sound as she landed. she leads the way as we walk out of this room and into the hallway. the 3 main band members all shared a room while foxy had his own separate one with foxy themed things. we walk into the dark dust ridden arcade, in the far-left corner foxy's smaller stage stood. the curtains we drawn and there was a little sign that read 'out of order' in front of it. "Cool, I wonder if any of these machines work still." Tracy says as she walks over to one machine that read 'foxy, run, run, run' she grabs the cord connected to it. I slowly walk towards the stage. growing up I was terrified of foxy; I don't know what it was about him, maybe the sharp teeth, or the weird pirate accent, but I was terrified. I hop up onto the uncovered part of the stage before pulling the curtain back. he looks worn, and tattered. his lower jaw is a bit dislocated.

"Is he there?"

I jump as I quickly turn my head towards Tracy. "yeah he's-" I see a figure run past the door. it looked big bulky like an animatronic or at-least the suit. "What was that?" Tracy's brows furrow together "what?" "Out-out there in the hallway, we need to leave" she rolls her eyes as she scoffs, "c'mon don't be a fucking pussy you're probably just seeing shit" I definitely saw something out there. I'm not just seeing shit. "NO! trace let's just leave please" she rolls her eyes again but ends up letting out a defeated sigh. "Alright, alright let's go."

I lead the way as we walk back towards the back door. as I get to the door I turn back and notice that Tracy isn't behind me anymore. "Trace? trace seriously where did you go?" I make my way back into the Pizzaria "Tracy-" then I hear a blood curdling scream. "Trace?" my voice shakes as I begin to walk toward the scream. "Tracy? stop-stop fucking with me" I turn a corner and see blood, Tracy, and bonnie? bonnie the fucking bunny with a knife in his hand bending over a dead Tracy.

"Oh my god" I whisper as I back up, I stumble over my feet and fall to the ground. the robot? man I don't even know what it is, but it turns and its head tilts to the side. "Please don't pl- I-I won't tell anyone please-" I cry out as it begins to walk towards me. he's so close that I can see eyes human eyes staring back at me through the mouth. I can even see the way its chest moves up and down slowly as the person inside breaths. "Please I don't want to die."

"I'm not going to hurt you" his voice is deep, and menacing, but familiar as well. he has a British accent that sticks out like a sore thumb in Utah. "Please I'm-I'm sorry I won't come back please I won't tell." I don't believe him, the way he said 'I'm not going to hurt you' the menacing chuckle afterwards it made a shiver run down my spine. he raises the knife above his head before bringing it down stabbing it right into me. red hot searing pain spreads across my body as he stabs and stabs and stabs.

"st-st-stop…" I cry out as blood gurgles out of my mouth. I choke on blood as I let out weak sobs. it was like he was torturing me before ending me. it was a game for him, and I just wanted him to end it, end me, end the suffering. he bends over pressing his knife to my neck "shhh."

Taglist

@leonkennedylefthand @maexyn @truecobblepot @mfnqueen1 @zoey5252 @nezukos-number1fan @bxbyyyjocelyn @dr3amyk1ng

#fanfics #fnaf #five nights at freddy's #willaim afton #mike afton #freddy fazzbears pizza #freddy fazbear #chica the chicken #bonnie the bunny #foxy the pirate #promptober

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hecatemoon87 · 11 months

Text

A Modern James Delaney Story - master list

Chapter One

Tala Swiftstorm stood abruptly from her desk and angrily threw the morning's newspaper into a waste bin. She had just read an article that The Delaney Nootka Trading Company was commencing with a project to build private port access on Nootka Sound land.

That meant another swath of unprotected forest was going to be destroyed. It also made her mad because Nootka Sound was her people's land. At least it had been until back in 1784, the Delaney family stole it.

"What a dick," she mumbled as she walked into her kitchen for a second cup of coffee. She was of course referring to James Delaney. The wealthiest man in Canada.

Although Tala had never met him she assumed she knew enough of his character based on the news articles she had read. Her personal opinion was that he was a spoiled rich, white boy who only wanted to do things that benefited him and his profit margin.

She settled back in front of her computer and idly scrolled through several websites that she had save previously. She checked them on a daily basis.

Tala was a journalist who advocated for First Nation People's rights and environmental protection of tribal lands. And for almost a year she had been trying to get an interview with the infamous James Delaney. But his personal assistant, Lorna Bow, remained a steadfast obstacle.

"I'm sorry Ms. Swiftstorm, but as I said before, he's a very busy man. Furthermore, I am familiar with your work and I don't think Mr. Delaney has anything to say to you," Ms. Bow had stated firmly during their last interaction on the phone.

Tala remembered the phone call very clearly. She was replaying the whole conversation in her head at that moment. She settled further into her chair an said to herself, "Fine, Ms. Bow. Have it your way. If you don't want to do it the easy way, let's do it the hard way."

Searching the web, Tala began looking for upcoming events in which the wealthiest of Vancouver's citizens would be invited to. There had to be a charity event, an art gala or some other bullshit rich people affair that they all flocked to in order to show off their wealth.

Maybe at one of them, James Delaney would be present. And she hit the jack pot after ten minutes.

Charity Ball, May 25th at the Arrow Lake Resort. Come support the Preservation of Tribal Art, read the headline.

She scanned the list of invites and spotted his name. She sat back in her chair and re-read the purpose of the charity. Preservation of Tribal Art. "Well, maybe you shouldn't have destroyed the culture of the people who made it in the first place," Tala grumbled.

The date of the charity ball was tomorrow evening. Tala needed to get an invitation and a dress asap. She didn't have influence or money, but she did know someone who did. Helga von Hinten.

Helga von Hinten was a German fashion designer who had moved to Vancouver six years ago. Tala had met her through a modeling gig.

It really wasn't something Tala was expecting to do, but she had found herself in a bit of debt. She had come across an online ad confirming a $5,000.00 check after the shoot. The ad was specifically requesting for First Nation "beauties" and read: Let's express native culture together!

It literally made Tala feel sick. It was a modeling job for lingerie, how was that even remotely close to expressing native culture? She finally applied when her electricity was turned off due to an over due bill.

When she had met Helga, Tala was very surprised. She had expected a thoughtless and selfish fashion mogul. Instead, Helga was very grounded and even told Tala that she thought the ad was rubbish.

"This ad is a god awful piece of shit. When I find out who wrote this, I'll fire them. But you are still interested in the money? Sometimes we do things in life we hate in order to survive," Helga said as she chewed on a cigarette.

It didn't take long for Tala to become friends with the foul mouthed German woman.

Picking up her phone, Tala called Helga. "Hey, are you busy today?"

"I'm always busy, but for you I can make an exception," Helga said, breathing hard.

"Did I catch you at a bad time?" Tala asked.

"No, I'm fucking exercising. I rather be out of breath from having sex, but here we are," Helga said, causing Tala to laugh.

"Okay, I'll be over in an hour," Tala said.

Tala arrived in front of a gated compound that held an impressive stone Mansion. She hit the intercom and the gate slowly swung open.

"What's up?" Helga said, opening the front door to greet her.

"I have a favor to ask," Tala said, walking through the door. Suddenly a child dashed across the floor and into Tala's arms.

"Tala!" Wynter cried happily.

Wynter was Helga's only child, the apple of her eye. She was a some what sullen, but not unhappy girl. Tala smiled and hugged Wynter tight. "Good to see you, kiddo," she said.

"Tell me, what is this favor?" Helga said, walking towards her giant kitchen. Tala and Wynter followed her.

"I need a dress and an invitation," Tala said.

"Dress, yes, that I can do. Invitation? To what?"

"To the Arrow Lake Resort Charity Ball," Tala said, taking a seat at the breakfast bar. Wynter sat next to her.

"You like green? I think you'll look amazing in an emerald green dress I just designed. Arrow Lake Resort Charity Ball, fine I can ask my people to get you an invite," Helga said.

Helga took Tala to her bedroom and had her try on the dress.

Tala looked at herself in the mirror and tried lifting her hair up to see what she'd look like with it pined up. But Helga slapped at her hands and allowed Tala's long, black raven hair to fall back down.

"You should keep your hair down, like this. There," Helga said, and adjusting the straps of the dress on her shoulders.

"You look beautiful," Wynter said, smiling.

"Aw, thank you Wynter," Tala said, smiling back.

"So, why are you going to this thing? I thought you hate rich people shit," Helga said, folding her arms.

"It's for a story," she said, smoothing out the elegant green dress around her hips.

"Story?" Helga said, arching an eyebrow.

"Yes, well, I need to interview some one. He's been dodging my calls so...I'm going to see if he'll talk to me there."

"Talk to who?" Helga said, continuing to pry.

"James Delaney," Tala said casually.

Helga laughed and shook her head. "Are you kidding me? Your plan is to ruffle the feathers of the richest man in Canada?"

"There will be no ruffling. I just want him to explain why he thinks it's okay to destroy acres and acres of forest for some stupid private port for his company. Just use the Port of Vancouver like everybody else," Tala said.

"Yes, and I'm sure he'll agree with you and not have you escorted immediately off the premsis," Helga said, smirking.

Tala shrugged, it was something she had considered. Being either asked to leave or forced to. Either way, she was going to have a chat with Mr. Delaney.

"You know, I've met him a few times," Helga said, walking over to bed and sitting on the edge.

Tala turned to look at her incredulously, "You have?"

"He's hot," Helga said, idly checking her nails.

"I guess so," Tala said, remembering a few images she had seen of him. "But who cares? He's a jerk and someone needs to stand up to him."

"Look, based on meeting him, I'm just going to tell you, he hardly talks. But when he does, oh boy, it's this deep, gravelly, sexy, smoky voice that will make you moist between the legs," Helga said, pretending to fan herself.

"Don't talk like that in front of Wynter," Tala said, rolling her eyes.

"It's okay, Mom was raised by wolves," Wynter said, giggling as she jumped on her mother. Helga laughed and tickled Wynter.

Tala smiled and turned back to face the mirror, she looked great. Perhaps she'd be able to blend in without out too much suspicion and finally have that chat with Mr. Delaney.

#tom hardy #tom hardy fanfiction #tom hardy fanfic #tom hardy fan fic #james delaney #james delaney au

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fatbiatchforever · 1 year

Text

Out of Time (Pt. 5)

This is super long but I had to. Everything felt like an absolute necessity. Sorry guys.

Were you embarrassed by the kind of role model you were becoming for your son? YES! But, honestly, you needed the alcohol to keep your mind from spiraling out of control. That's why Riley's birthday was a blur at the end.

You were cleaning the kitchen when the phone rang, "Yo."

"Hey Y/N."

"Oh, hey Cass! What's up?"

"Can we come over? We got this new game and it's soooo cool. Xander needs to play it."

You laughed, "Come over. Why are you even asking?"

"She said yes! Can we go now?" Cass shouted.

You heard the phone being passed around till Sam was on the line, "Heyyyyyy."

"Hey, what's happening?"

"They want to come over."

"Okay, come over then."

Sam lowered his voice, "There's a tiny detail that I'm not sure about."

"What?"

"So I have some work to care of-"

"Ok, I can look after Riley and the boys."

"I got them a baby sitter."

"Cool."

"Right, but I need to leave right now. So, the baby sitter would have to drop them off."

You were getting a tiny bit agitated at this point, "Sam, I'm failing to see the problem over here."

"You know the baby sitter."

"Great, I have company while the kids have fun. What's the issue?"

"The company. I don't think you'll be a fan."

"Nooooooo-"

"Yessssssss."

"Sam! Really?!"

"Y/N, I tried. The boys wouldn't stop bothering me. You should have known something was wrong when Cass asked if he could come over!" Sam whisper yelled, "We're not civilized like that!"

"I can't believe you! How the," you lowered your voice, "fuck did you get Bucky to babysit?"

"It's an emergency. He offered and I said yes! I didn't know the boys would start this. If you think about it, it's their fault."

"You. Are. Unbelievable. He's there right now, isn't he?"

"Mhmmm."

"I'm going to kill myself."

"I'll give the phone back to Cass. Just say something came up and you can't do today."

"But he would know."

"Nah, Cass believes everything."

"No, Bucky!"

"What about him?"

"Cass announced I said yes. Since you're speaking in a lower voice, he knows we're talking about him and probably listening to our conversation because of that damn serum. He would know I'm saying no because of him."

"And it matters?"

"Yeah! I don't want him to think I can't face him."

"But you cannot?"

"Excuse me! I can!"

"Then it's settled. Bucky will be there with the kids in few."

You were dead serious, "Sam,"

"Yeah?"

"If I get to know that all of you are planning something behind my back, I swear on my kid, that shield will split your head in two. Am I clear?"

"Sweet Jesus! We're not planning anything."

"Fine."

You wanted to smash the phone on the counter. You knew you would have to face him again. Especially, since he's back now. But the thought of him coming to your home felt like a lot.

"Xander," you walked inside his room, "Cass, AJ and Riley are coming over. Could you please clean up a bit?"

He stood up and jumped, "Yes! I can show them my new toys ma!"

You sat on the ground and looked at his drawing book, "Uhuh. What are you drawing?"

He picked it up and weaseled his way into your lap. You laughed and moved your hands so he could sit comfortably, "You're lucky you're cute."

He pointed to the drawing, "That's me. And that's you."

"Wowwww!"

"I'm a super hero and I'm strong enough to pick you up and save you from the monsters."

"You look handsome." You kiss his hair and hug him tighter.

Xander whined, "Ma, you're messing the drawing!"

"Oops. I love this. You're my favorite superhero for sure."

"Really?" He turned his cute, small face towards yours.

"Hell yeah! And it's only fair my favorite superhero's artwork is displayed right. Xander, could I please display this marvelous piece of art on our fridge?"

With that he zoomed off to the kitchen. You followed him into the kitchen, where you found him standing infront of the refrigerator.

"Any idea where?"

"In the middle." He pointed. You took the paper from him and placed the drawing in the middle, "Perfection."

"Perfection." He repeated.

"Xander, your room. Please?"

The bell rang.

You felt it in your stomach. You frowned internally as Xander happily ran to the door. You dragged your feet to the door and looked down at him,

"Saved by the bell."

You opened the door and that feeling intensified by million. But this time it was different. It was like you had butterflies. Similar the ones you had the first time you met him. Maybe because he looked the way you met him the first time. The short hair, the stubble, the dark blue shirt with his leather jacket, the faded black skinny jeans and that small smile on his face. Riley and the baby bag were additions that made him look soft and some might say even hotter. Not to mention, he was looking at you too. That made your stomach form infinite knots.

You cleared your throat and looked down at Xander leaping on the boys to give hugs.

"Hey guys!"

"Hey Y/N!" Both of them replied. Riley cooed in his arms.

"Oh my god!" Xander screamed.

You looked at him, "What?"

"Ma THAT'S BUCKY!"

Yep, you're four year old son had finally recognized his favorite superhero. Was it a big fuck you when Xander deemed Bucky his favorite out of every avenger? Yes, Sam took it the hardest though. Now that Bucky looked similar to every toy he has out there, it would be a miracle if he didn't get tackled by kids.

Bucky looked shocked but you knew he would enjoy it. It annoyed you a bit. Why was he put on a pedestal when you were there since day one? You didn't leave.

You knew that wasn't fair, but you weren't in the mood to be rational.

Xander moved really close to Bucky and looked up, "Can I fight aliens with you?"

"Xander, let them breathe, huh?"

Bucky smiled, "We can talk about it."

Xander shrieked again and turned to you, "YES! I'm going to smash everyone."

"Okay hulk. Boys, come in."

All three ran to Xander's room.

"Heyyyy Riley." You took her and bounced on your hips, "You're literally cutest kid ever."

She giggled as you continued to bounce her on your hips. You looked at him again. He was smiling till he noticed you looking at him and cooled it down.

"Hey."

"Hey, sorry for bothering you."

"They're welcome anytime."

Bucky nodded and handed you the bag, "Call me when they're done and I'll pick them up."

"I don't have your number."

"Oh,"

You internally groaned again, "Do you want to come in and wait?"

He wasn't expecting that, "uhm," you could see the struggle on his face, "I, Uhm- okay."

You walked in with Riley. You turned back to watch Bucky awkwardly step in and close the door.

You whispered, "Do you like him? It's okay if you don't Riri."

You handed Xander's figurine to her and placed her on the counter.

"Do you want anything to drink? Coffee?"

Bucky stopped ogling every corner of your living room and looked at you, "You drink coffee?"

"Nooo." You laughed, "Do you really think I can take that?"

"With a cup of sugar and a drop of coffee, I still see you complaining." He stood behind the counter. Exactly behind Riley, you noticed.

"Mhm, so is that a yes?"

"Yeah." Bucky pulled Riley closer to him, so you could move.

"You don't drink coffee but you have a coffee machine?"

You grabbed a mug, "Adrian. He "gifted" it to me. A lousy excuse for him to have coffee when he's here."

"Oh."

You looked back at that Oh. As if he was annoyed by what you said.

Riley's cries grabbed both of yours attention. The panic on Bucky's face stifled a laugh in you. You picked Riley up and smelled the problem.

"Damn. Let's get you out of that."

You looked at confused Bucky, "Could you get me the bag?"

He shook his head and grabbed the bag instantly.

"There should be this flower mat kinda thing. Could you lay that out?"

You laid Riley on the mat, "On the side, there's a blue troll. Hand me that please?"

He looked at you for confirmation before passing it to you.

"Here you go Riri."

"Get me the wipes and the powder."

Bucky handed you everything as you asked him to. You did steal few glances at him. He looked at everything you were doing so intently. Doing everything you asked of him. You knew where this was going and you stopped yourself from feeling all of that.

"And voila. Riri is a happy baby again."

Bucky stepped in to hold Riley as you threw the diaper away.

"Thanks do- Y/N."

FUCK NO! He wasn't.

"F-For?"

"For being there. To change her diaper."

"Oh, I had the fortune to change a lot of diapers on my own. So, I know the drill."

Bucky looked away, "Right."

"You were great. I'm sure you'll get it soon."

"Yeah, if I have you right beside me every time."

Your eyes spoke panic and his spoke panic. But, comfort. What he said radiated comfort. Fuck, this radiated comfort. Four years ago Y/N would have swooned at how domestic this was. But that was four years ago Y/N. Right?

"Bucky?"

Both of you looked away and looked at the source.

"Yeah?"

"Can I show you my kick move?" Xander asked.

"Xander, let-"

"Of course."

"Let's go."

Bucky turned to you. You took Riley from him, "Thanks. He loves you and he's just excited."

"Anytime."

———

After Xander tried to convince Bucky to let him come to his next fight, everyone hurdled in front of the TV to play the new game. Riley was crawling around as the boys taught Bucky how to play.

You knew all of this wasn't right. But, it felt like old times- watching AJ and Cass teach Bucky to play their new games. This was even better because, UGH you didn't want to admit, but seeing Bucky interact with Xander was... cute. And not to mention Riley occasionally trying to steal Bucky's attention was extra cute.

You were having an internal fight. Whether you should allow yourself to feel or not?

"Y/N?"

"Hmm?"

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah. Here's your coffee."

Bucky sat down and took a sip. That smile again.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"Come on."

"It's different."

"I added a spoon of sugar. Do you need more?"

"No. I mean, it's different when you make it. In a good way."

Your cheeks heated up, so you turned back to look at anything else.

"So, how's life back?"

"I found a place."

"The while is getting longer then."

"Mhm."

You took the plate out and the rolls from the fridge.

"When you moving in?"

"I moved in."

"Damn." You placed two on the plate, "You've got everything, right?"

You clicked on 30 seconds and turned back.

"Yeah."

"More than a mattress and a tv?"

He huffed, "Yes Y/N."

"Good good."

You took the plate out and dumped heaves of cream cheese. He liked it like that. You kept the plate in front of him, "Cinnamon rolls anyone?"

The boys didn't even bother replying to you.

"That's a no."

"They're missing out. You made this?" He ate as if someone would take it away from him in next ten seconds.

You smiled, "Yeah."

"I missed your baking."

You laughed, "Thanks."

Then, it settled. What he just said.

"Can I ask you something?"

You nodded.

"How old is Xander?"

"Four."

You could see the gears turning in his head. You laughed, "I popped him out the minute you dipped."

Bucky immediately tensed up, "Y/N."

"Oh, NO. Nope. No, I adopted Xander."

"Oh,"

"Yeah."

"Why? I mean,"

You shrugged, "I was where I wanted to be work wise and I felt like I was ready for my family. So, I looked into the process. A year later, I had my kid. When I started it, I never thought something would happen. But having him in my arms was the most realest thing I've ever felt."

Bucky smiled, openly at that, "He's amazing."

"Yeah. My best impulsive decision ever."

"Are you, Uhm, you know."

You raised your eyebrows, "I don't."

"Y/N,"

"What? Tell me."

"Are you with someone?"

"Nope. Are you?"

"Nope."

"Cool cool cool cool cool. Why?"

He shrugged and looked back to check on Riley, "No reason."

"Are we ever going to talk about what happened?"

#james buchanan barnes #bucky marvel #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes x reader #bucky fanfic #bucky barnes #bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky x female reader #james barnes #avengers x reader #avengers imagine #avengers fic

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averysmolbear · 11 months

Text

This is all just self ship stuff so it’s okay not to read it. ☺️ It’s just an expanded on version of the not so little family post for my self ship with Reiner.

When we found out that I was pregnant for the first time, Reiner was ecstatic. He had been hoping for it after all but I was nervous as hell. Of course Reiner took it upon himself to buy every parenting and pregnancy book that he could get his hands on, only for him to get frustrated when finding contradicting advice in various books.

“Seriously,” Reiner said as he slammed the book he was reading closed, “why can’t they all just tell you to do the same thing? How am I supposed to know which way is right?”

I look over at him with a small smile, setting aside the yogurt parfait that Reiner had painstakingly made for me earlier. “I think that’s because we’ll figure it out as we go along,” I said with a shrug, reaching out to turn his face toward me.

A slow smile started to tug at the corners of his mouth as he looked at me, nodding. He placed a hand on my stomach, which was still the same soft belly it had been before we found out I was pregnant since I wasn’t showing yet. Reiner took a deep breath before placing a soft kiss on my lips.

“You’re right,” he said, tossing the book aside. “I just hoped to have a hang of it before the little nugget got here.”

“That what we’re calling him or her?”

Reiner grinned as he shifted to lay down on the couch so he could rest his head in my lap. He was a bit cramped on the couch but he never asked me to move, just curling his long legs up a little more as he looked up at me. “Why not? We should call the baby something other than ‘it’, right?”

I reached for my snack again to finish it off but between bites, I played a little with Reiner’s hair. “Nugget it is.”

It wasn’t long before he started panicking though because the closer we got to the baby being born, the more he wondered if he was cut out to be a dad. His own father hadn’t been a part of his life after all and Reiner began to wonder if he would mess up the child’s life by not being a good enough father.

He had long talks with my dad and his uncle and other people to get a better sense of what he was getting himself into but he never once regretted his decision to start a family with me. In fact Reiner was so confident that I could pick up the slack in the areas where he might be lacking. I reminded him that he did a wonderful job of being a big brother figure to his cousin, Gabi, and that while there wasn’t a huge age difference between him and Eren or Armin, he had been a good big brother figure to them too. The only difference now was going to be that this was our child but he already had it in him to be a good, strong role model.

When Amelia was born, Reiner cried more than I did. He was so happy but he worried that he would hurt her when he held her. He just kept commenting about how he couldn’t believe how tiny she was (the doctor kept reminding Reiner that Amelia was actually average for a baby) and Reiner couldn’t understand how we had made something so tiny and beautiful, although he would always add that Amelia had to take after me because she was so perfect.

He slept with the baby monitor on his side of the bed and for the first week, Reiner didn’t get much sleep. He wanted me to sleep through the night as much as possible so he tried to catch every little cry Amelia made to make sure she had whatever she needed. He was surprised at how quickly I was able to tell the difference in the way Amelia cried if she needed a diaper change or needed to be fed or just wanted to be held. Reiner soon, however, was able to pick up on the differences too and he was the most attentive but nervous dad.

“She’s tiny,” Eren said, watching as Amelia got some tummy time on a blanket on the floor. “At least she takes after her mom. If she took after you, she’d be one ugly kid.”

“Eren!” I peeked my head in from the kitchen to see Armin sitting on the floor, shaking a rattle at Amelia while Eren watched from the couch. He looked up at me and shrugged.

“He’s right,” Reiner added, moving as soon as he heard Amelia fuss a bit. He scooped her up easily and laid her on the couch. “She gets her looks from you. Actually she gets a lot from you.”

I shook my head to return to making lunch for us. Soon Eren was joining me in the kitchen, gesturing toward the fridge. I frowned slightly, not knowing what he was asking about.

“Reiner said to get a bottle for Amelia,” he said, shrugging. He watched as I grabbed the bottle of pre pumped breast milk, taking it when I handed it to him.

“You two are good parents, you know,” Eren added as he started out of the kitchen. “Just don’t tell Reiner I said that.”

When I found out that I was pregnant again, Reiner and I felt more prepared. And then came the news that I was having twins. They ran in my family but were kind of rare so I hadn’t expected to find out that we would be having twins. Reiner seemed calm until we got home. In fact, he was so concerned that we didn’t tell anyone that it was going to be twins until I was much further along, especially since I ended up on bedrest for the last couple of months. That actually wound up scaring Reiner to the point that he refused to let me hold Amelia at all toward the end of the second pregnancy.

When they were born, we worried a little about being overwhelmed by having 3 in diapers. Luckily Amelia was getting closer to hitting an age where she’d be walking and she was eating mostly solid foods. She was even drinking out of a sippy cup and had started trying to talk and feed herself with finger foods by the time the boys were born. Of course my parents and Reiner’s mom stepped up a lot once Mathias and Milo were born to help out whenever they could but for the most part Reiner and I were able to mostly handle things on our own. It helped that Amelia was so well behaved though.

Reiner and I took turns getting up for the kids whenever one of them fussed at night but Amelia was sleeping through the night by the time her brothers were born so it was mostly changing and feeding the boys.

We were confident parents by the time Isobelle was born. Amelia was potty trained and while the boys weren’t there yet, they were still getting closer to that point by the time we added another baby to the mix. Of course once Mathias and Milo were up and walking, we had to double down on some of the baby proofing of the house. They weren’t just more curious than Amelia had been; they were downright trouble together. In fact they were often sneaking out of their pay pen if someone wasn’t keeping a close enough eye on them. They didn’t misbehave too much but they were a handful and even as they reached toddler age, one would play lookout while the other tried to get something that they were told they couldn’t have.

Luckily for us Amelia was good at helping to keep an eye on her siblings even at the age of five, which was around the time that Everett came along. By this point, all of the other children were potty trained (or close to it with Isobelle still in pull ups) and they were all walking and talking. It was slightly more chaotic, especially once Reiner and I were fully outnumbered by the children but we were so used to having a baby around that it wasn’t difficult for us to keep up with all of them. Plus we had help from family and friends more often than not, with even Eren and Armin or Annie or Porco and Pieck offering to watch the kids if we needed a break.

When I found out I was pregnant one last time, Reiner and I thought we had it all in hand. Of course the last pregnancy was a bit rougher on me. I had the worst morning sickness and the doctor was a little concerned about my blood pressure. Because of this, Reiner doted on me throughout the pregnancy and he made sure that I didn’t try to do too much. By this time though we had 3 in school and only 2 at home still. With the help we got from family and friends, things went as smoothly as we could have hoped for. Theodore was a bit premature (and the smallest of the babies I’d had) but he was a healthy baby.

Reiner did worry a little more about Theodore but like his siblings before him, he progressed through each milestone on time or even early. It helped that Amelia liked to sit and read to her younger siblings once she learned how to read and Theodore had 3 older brothers who always included him in whatever they were playing even if he was still too young or small to be able to play along.

(Also Amelia being called nugget stuck and even as she grew up Reiner called her nugget. Mathias and Milo were our peanuts. Isobelle was our bug. Everett was our bean. Theodore was our jelly bean. And yes, Reiner will still refer to each of them by those nicknames whether they like it or not. And Theodore went from being the smallest to the biggest of the kids, standing at 6’ tall as a teenager and he could pass Reiner’s height by the time he’s done growing.)

#tessie writes #tessie selfships #self ship imagines #tessirei #reiner braun selfship #reiner braun selfship imagines #reiner selfship #reiner selfship imagines

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illiana-mystery · 10 months

Text

My Current WIPs

I was tagged by @eclecticwildflowers and @imwithyoutiltheendofthelinebucky to post my current WIPs! I have four, so this is gonna be a long post.

The four in question are He Won't Hurt You (Bobby Hicks), Sugar Baby (Ed Blackridge), The Vampire's Jewel (Max Shreck), and Jumping the Broom (Alan Ward).

Taglist: @emilynightshade89, @yentoons

---

He Won't Hurt You

"Nev...Nev...Neveah, wake up. Wake up honey," he softly said as he shook your sleepy body. You hesitated to open your eyes, until you finally recognized the voice you just heard.

Soon you batted your eyes and smiled when you saw your old manager standing by your side.

He smelled of a fresh morning cigarette with a hint of orange juice and was wearing a pink short sleeve shirt with slight raveled jorts.

His utility belt was fascend firm against his waist, as his hands held the sides, flexing his muscles a little more.

He was quite the sight to behold after you woke up, although you wished he was still cuddling you in bed.

"Good morning, Bobby," you groggily said as you rubbed your eyes. "It's morning already?"

"Yes, and I need you up and at 'em," he demanded in more of a drill sergeant tone. "We got places to be and faces to see."

"Okay, sir," you hummed, making him blush. "Sir, yes sir."

"Nev, please stop. We don't have time for more fucking and you're making me horny calling me sir like that," he warned, his face turning even more red.

You laughed as you got up and out of bed.

"Okay, Bobby. I'll stop. Can I at least get a kiss?"

"After you get dressed," he said. "Time's a wasting. Tam's been blowing up my phone. She acts like she can't function without me around. I told her that I was helping you out and that we need to get your stuff out of that apartment before I come in. Juan's there though. So she can just get help from him."

You felt your blood boiling a bit from what he was saying. You knew that Tamara took your old job, but you didn't realize that she probably had a crush on Bobby too. And it really didn't make you think otherwise by his admission.

It wasn't a hard job, so you knew that she only wanted Bobby around because she liked him. So that only meant that this was gonna be awkward being in the same space as her.

"What am I gonna wear, Bobby? All of my clothes are at my apartment."

"Not to worry, beautiful. I already picked out an old army shirt and some cargo shorts for you to wear."

"Oh, does that mean I can wear your dog tags too?" you curiously asked.

"No, no, darling. Those are only for me to wear. Although, maybe I might oblige...if it involved you with nothing else on."

"That can be arranged," you hummed.

He just snickered.

"Enough," he sternly said. "Now get dressed and meet me in the kitchen. I made a breakfast smoothie for you."

"A tropical smoothie with a hint of coconut?"

"Of course. I do remember you always trying to drink all of mine every morning. I couldn't leave my cup unattended lest I be left with less than half of it."

You giggled.

"Well, it didn't bother you too much," you said as you began to put his clothes on. "I mean you did still fuck me last night."

"The heart wants what the heart wants," he teased before he left you to finish getting dressed.

After you finished and wrapped your hair up in a messy bun, you followed his instructions to meet him in the kitchen.

He was preoccupied pouring more almond milk in your smoothie before he finally looked at you. And when he looked at you, he was floored.

His old army shirt and cargo shorts looked so good on you. His shirt clung to your chest just right and his shorts hugged your ass and hips and thighs just right.

You looked like a model to him, a very sexy curvy model that he was lucky enough to bed last night.

"So, what do you think?" you asked as he finally came back to his senses.

"What do I think?" he asked as he walked around the island where he was standing and moved over by you. "I think...well I think you look gorgeous. Damn. My clothes look better on you."

He sealed his compliment with a heartfelt kiss, pulling you even closer to him as it went on.

"Thank you, Bobby," you said before a giggle. "Maybe you should let me wear your clothes more."

"I'm starting to be open to the suggestion," he moaned before he retrieved your smoothie. "Here. You ready to go now?"

"Thanks," you said once you took the cup from him. "Yep, I'm ready to go."

---

Sugar Baby

"You know, when I was a kid, I used to watch Mae do her and her daughter's hair when they were living with us," Ed started, bobby pin clasped between his lips. His hands were painstakingly braiding the last pieces of Alicia's hair that went along with the hair design he thought would look nice on her for the day.

"Mae was a master with hair. She could do just about any type of hairstyle that was common in the black community back then. It was quite impressive and I guess I just picked it up," he explained further, making sure he clearly answered Alicia's question of his skill. He was still a little too vague for her case though, but she let it slide.

"I'm honestly surprised. Seems like you were confused about my satin cap last night."

"I was. Mae and Loretta just wore their hair in scarves," he replied. "And honestly, I never really thought about how different their hair was from mine, just thought it was beautiful like yours. I mean Miss Mae was a housekeeper, but she still liked to look her best."

"I really would have liked Miss Mae," Alicia cooed. "She's sounds kinda like my dear mother."

Ed just chuckled before he turned her chair around so she could look in the mirror.

"Voila!" he cheered before he noticed the bright smile that now decorated Alicia's face.

He had braided the left side of her hair and wrapped it around the back, making a nice little design worthy enough for a typical hair show in Atlanta.

"Eddie! Oh my gosh! I love it! Thank you!," she said as she jumped out of her chair and hugged him.

"You're welcome," he happily said as he hugged her back.

"Oh my gosh, now I need to change."

"I don't mind you walking around in your swimming robe," he teased as he kissed her neck.

"Well, I mind, lover boy," she remarked before she went back into his bedroom to retrieve the old campus shirt and shorts that she packed.

Ed followed not too long after, but stayed leaned up against the bathroom doorsill. His hands were tucked into his distressed blue jeans, as his flexed muscles placed little wrinkles into his crisp white undershirt.

He eagerly watched her get out of her robe and into her clothes, which she noticed. Not that she mind though. He had seen her naked earlier.

"Enjoy the show, handsome?" she teased as she walked back over to him. He didn't give her an answer, but his baby blues did give her a good look over.

The baseball shirt she was wearing hugged her chest and waist just right and her shorts excentuated her sexy hips.

"Damn, she even looked good in casual clothes," he thought.

"My eyes are up here," she said with a giggle.

"They sure are," he retorted before he took her lips in a soft kiss. "You look amazing."

"I'm just wearing an old college shirt. But thank you."

"Honestly, you look good in anything...although I like you with nothing on too."

"Fresh," she remarked before she playfully punched his arm. He just laughed.

"Ready for the rest of the tour?"

"I was born ready."

Her response caused her older lover to laugh again before he took her hand and led her out the bedroom.

He showed her his guest rooms first — five in total and they were all designed with murals inspired by a Van Gogh painting. He told her how he hired a muralist from Manhattan to take on this task and how it took about five months to complete the project.

But he put up the artist in his own room and paid for his travels too and fro as well as his other expenses. To him, it was worth sleeping on the sofa for.

Alicia couldn't have agreed more, but she was curious what room he was gonna put her in. He smiled before he told her he though she would have liked to stay in the Starry Night suite. It was the largest room and had its own bathroom unlike the other four which had two shared bathrooms.

However, the guest rooms were rarely used anyway now. On that somber note, he brought her to his study on the other side of the upper floor.

The room was enormous and surrounded by Mahogany bookshelves that were overflowed with books of different genres. Honestly, it looked like a small library. But the centerpiece was a grand, large portrait of the Blackridge Family including Mae and Loretta that was above his large desk.

And Alicia noticed that the mother and daughter were wearing dresses that were as extravagant as Vivian's while Ed Sr. and Eddie were both wearing tailored suits. It was a lovely portrait and really showed how beloved Mae and Loretta were to the family.

"I made her laugh before we took that portrait," Ed admitted before he jokingly smiled at Alicia. "That's why her smile is so bright. Loretta didn't smile a lot, but she did around me. I made her."

"Sounds like you two were close."

"Of course. We grew up together."

Alicia giggled.

"I couldn't help but notice the dresses they're wearing too."

"Oh, yeah. My mom insisted that they be in every portrait, much to the photographer's chagrin. He didn't understand why we would consider the help family, but my dad would always back her up. So she would always make sure that Mae and Loretta had a nice outfit to wear too. Loretta and I were 15 in that picture."

"Malcolm looks like her," she observed.

"He does," he said with a laugh. "I've always told her that. She doesn't see it though."

She wanted to ask Ed more about his friendship with Loretta, but she decided against it and just went along with the rest of the tour.

The movie room was next on the itinerary and Alicia immediately observed that it looked like a viewing room on a Hollywood lot from the 1960s. But she liked the old charm of it.

The chairs were gold-finished with plush velvet" cushions and were put together in four columns and four rows. She wondered why he had so many seats, but didn't ask.

"You can sit if you would like," he softly said before she did. He followed after and smiled at her, making her do the same.

"I feel like I've gone back in time," she said. "But it's much cozier than how it would have been."

Her comment made Ed a little uneasy. Past memories of the mistreatment of his nanny and friend flooded his subconscious, but he tried his best to play it off.

"Yeah," he moaned. "This is actually an exact replica of the projection room in my childhood home. My mother loved movies, so my dad had it made for her when they were building the house. It was years before I was born. I actually get film from several movie companies every month."

Alicia was so in awe, she didn't respond. Ed grabbed her hand to get her attention again and she looked at him before he asked,

"What's your favorite movie genre? I can tweak my usual order for you and we can watch some movies together sometimes if you would like."

"I like just about any type of movie," she answered. "But I really like Action-Adventure, Comedy, and Horror. But I don't like gore."

"Noted," he said before he kissed her cheek.

---

The Vampire's Jewel

Your hand moved down your neck as your remembrance of him finally faltered. At this point, the scar he left you was but a mere mark. Nothing but a reminder of a night of revelry you shared only once.

But still, somehow, it was special to you. Deep down, you still loved him. It was obvious by how the Scarlet stain immediately made you think about him.

It still had been years though. Maybe it was time to move on. Sure, he claimed that your souls were bonded and that he would have to kill you if you betrayed him but how could he.

He left you alone the next morning after your encounter, without a proper goodbye. And vampire or not, that was just rude.

You still had hope that maybe you were still on his mind every now and then though. And you hoped he was safe wherever he ended up running away to.

Hell, maybe happily ever after was right around the corner. You hoped it was anyway. You spent way too many lonely nights over these poor years. You just longed for his chilly touch.

You moped for only a short while though as your yawns began to take over. Your tiredness won and eventually you blew out your bedside candle and got comfortable under the sheets.

Slowly, you closed your eyes and fell into a restful sleep.

But for only a short while.

Because you were soon startled awake by the noise of footsteps and heavy breathing. It was a frightening cacophony of noise, but still sounded so familiar.

However, you were frozen in place and didn't dare get out of bed to investigate.

The sounds stopped after a few minutes though, settling you back into peaceful sleep.

But as you dozed back off, the intruder made his way into your room. He crept in, barely making noise as he found his way to your bedside.

He really wanted to taste you again, but he became distracted by how pretty you were as you slept.

You were still as beautiful as he remembered, but he wondered if you would still find him attractive.

A lot had changed about him since the last time you saw each other.

Due to his new environment, his skin lost about ten years of aging and his hair started to grow back. Now, it was about shoulder length and flowing, but still as white as the tufts behind his ears he used to have.

His fingernails were still long and sharp, but trimmed to a more civilized length. And his clothes were updated to an era-appropriate suit vest and puffy shirt with slacks underneath.

He was a new man, a new man that didn't have to live in the shadows anymore. But although he had his new freedom, he began to miss you.

That's why he returned. He returned for you, just like he promised.

He just hoped that you would be able to adjust to the harsh coldness and darkness of his new home.

Slowly, he approached your face and stroked it with his chilly palm as his other hand moved to feel your heartbeat.

A smile appeared on his face once he felt the rush of your heartbeat and he quickly moved his head down to kiss your cheek.

You jolted awake once you felt his lips, before jumping back once you noticed the intruder's face.

Of course, you didn't recognize him so you reached for a sharp object to stab him before he jumped back and said,

"Greta, Greta. It's me. Schreck. Max Schreck."

"What?" you asked in a confused tone. You took a closer look at him afterwards, before you noticed his distinct yellowed eyes and fangs.

"Yes, it's really me. I've come back for you," he said as he kept his hands up.

"Well, it's about damn time," you huffed before you threw your blunt object to the side. "What took you so long? Why do you look different?"

"May I sit? It's been a long journey."

"Sure," you moaned as he sat down before he noticed the dried stain of Scarlet on your fingers. He licked his lips, alerting you that he saw the dried blood. You rolled your eyes, but let him lick it off.

"Thank you. I'm parched," he moaned after.

"I'll let you feed from me after you explain yourself," you replied.

"Good deal," he answered back as he sniffled you. "Mmm, you still smell of lilac."

"It is my favorite scent," you remarked. "Now spill."

Unfortunately, he had one more request before he did explain.

"Can I touch your breast?"

You rolled your eyes, but complied.

"Fine."

Swiftly, he squeezed your left breast which was his favorite. The low temperature of his pale hand made you wince, until he rest his head against your other breast.

Yes, his head was also cold but he was kinda cute like this. He was softly mewing as he kneaded your bosom, and rubbing against your other like a purring cat.

"Comfortable?" you teased.

"Yes," he purred. "I missed you a lot."

"I missed you too. That's why I thought you would come back for me sooner."

"I wanted to, but it wasn't safe. I traveled throughout the known world to find us a safe place to live, but I fell short. Every time I would get comfortable, I was driven away by angry humans. I was almost killed a couple of times," he began to explained. "I guess I can't blame them since I did kill their loved ones. And that was my life, until I settled in this remote village on the other side of Siberia..."

You were perplexed when he said that. He traveled all the way from Russia just to see you again. And not only that, but he traveled around the world just to find the perfect home for both of you.

You couldn't believe it. All this time, you thought he ditched you but he was just looking out for your best interest. Honestly, it made you love him even more.

"The locals there treat me like a god. I'm set up in an abandoned castle and I have willing feeders at my beck and call. They give me blood and I give them room and board in my castle. All of them were poor and homeless, so it's a win-win."

"That's lovely," you moaned. "But I'm not used to intense cold. Isn't it really cold there?"

"It is, but there is a way that you will be able to withstand it."

"And what would that be?"

"I want you to be my immortal bride," he cooed as he looked up at you. "By becoming a vampire. I can turn you tonight, while we make love."

"Schreck, I don't...I don't know about this. I mean will this hurt? Will I even change properly?"

"Greta, I'll take good care of you," he assured as he licked and kissed your right nipple. "Besides, you'll make a gorgeous vampire. And you'll live without fear of dying forever. I'll make sure of it."

"Well, I do like the sound of that," you murmured.

He widely smiled at you before asking,

"So you accept my offer?"

"Yes, yes. Turn me, please."

---

Jumping the Broom

He had the biggest smile on his face as he drove back home. He just couldn't wait to get back on one knee and propose to her again.

However, his plan was put on hold when he found his wife fast asleep on their couch. He was slightly disappointed, but still gave her a kiss on the cheek and pulled a blanket over her.

A soft smile reappeared on his face as she got cozy against the plush of the wool blanket as he put the ring box back in his pocket.

He turned the radio off after, realizing that Janie forgot to turn if off before she fell asleep. Then his stomach started to growl, so he went to the kitchen and found the stew on the burner.

Quietly, he went about rewarming their dinner and fixing them both a bowl. He figured the scent would wake her up.

And he was right. It did. As soon as the smell hit her nose, she slowly woke up. Her eyes batted open and she slightly stretch before she noticed the blanket draped over her.

That meant that Alan was finally home. Because he would always put a blanket over her if she fell asleep on the couch before he got back.

Happily, she jumped up and went to greet him. He was reading the paper she left on the table while he ate, so he didn't see her at first.

So she walked around to his backside and put her hands over his eyes.

"Guess who?" she teased.

"Is that my darling wife, Janie Marie?" he cooed.

"Yes," she chirped before she put her arms around his neck. He chuckled and gave her a kiss after.

"Sorry I didn't..."

"It's fine," he said as he folded the paper and put it where he found it. "I'm capable of fixing my own dinner too."

Janie giggled before noticing the bowl he fixed for her.

"Thank you," she said before she kissed his cheek.

"You're very welcome," he replied as she went to sit down and eat.

"That new paperboy always brings the papers after I leave for work," he suddenly said. "Good thing I'm not always checking the stock market."

Janie just laughed.

"He's six. Let's cut him some slack."

"Flynn and I were paperboys at his age. We always woke up with the roosters and did our job well and on time."

"Well, things work a little differently in Virginia than they do in Wisconsin."

"Fair enough," he relented. "You know, you season this better than ma does."

"I do have some Creole in my blood," she replied. "Spice is just a part of my DNA."

"I'm glad. This is just the kick I needed."

"How was your day?"

"It's was a bit chaotic. Glad I have Eric though. He kept my head on straight all day."

Janie laughed.

"I'm glad you have him too. He's the friendliest Brit I've ever met."

"How was your day?"

"I finished my errands. But I bumped into Mary, Betty Jean, and Cindy Lou at Macy's. So I spent most of the day with them at the shopping mall."

"Oh, well that's nice. I'm sure Mary appreciated it."

"Yeah, it was. I just hate that Paul told his girls to call me Miss Guillory instead of Mrs. Ward because we're not legally married and I'm colored..."

"That bastard just gets more and more likeable by the day, doesn't he?" he grumbled trying not to get too angry. Although, his face did get red and he did tighten his fists.

"I'm not trying to work you up, Alan. I just needed to vent."

"Rupert also made me mad."

"Oh no. What did Mr. Jessup say?" she asked.

"He was talking about how you aren't actually my wife and how I'm only shy about my big case because I'm with you...a colored woman. Like how dare I not want to make that bust all about me when it isn't my struggle."

"Ugh, I really hate him sometimes."

"Eric had my back though. He told me that we can legally get married now due to the verdict of that case."

"Yes, I know. I'm so excited. I'm glad things are starting to change."

"Me too," he said with a big smile. "Now, what's for dessert?"

"Why don't you check the oven?" she teased.

"Okay," he said with a shrug. Once he checked the bottom compartment, he found the banana bread she baked.

He took it out but then noticed a strange hole in the middle. So he poked his finger in and felt a little plastic toy. He took it out and it was a little baby rattle painted pink.

His eyes lit up before he looked over at his wife. She had turned her chair around and had a big smile on her face as she rubbed her belly.

"Janie..."

She giggled.

"Alan, I'm pregnant. You're gonna be a father."

The excitement Alan felt suddenly was overwhelming. For the past three years, he desperately wanted a child and now his dream was becoming a reality.

He threw himself on the floor in front of her and just started to cry tears of joy. Janie smiled and cradled his head against her stomach as he kept kissing it.

"When did you find out?"

"Last Thursday at my doctor's appointment," she answered. "I wanted to wait to tell you until we got the verdict for the case."

"Janie, this is wonderful news," he said as he kissed her tummy again. "I'm so happy. I love that you put that little rattle in the bread."

"Betty Jean picked it out at the doll store at the mall."

"Of course she did," he said with a giggle. "I'm finally gonna have my little June Rose. Oh, I can't wait to hold her and read her bedtime stories."

Janie giggled before she ruffled his hair.

"We don't know what we're having yet."

"I just know. Father's intuition. And I love her already."

"She loves you too," she hummed as her husband looked up at her with watery eyes.

"I'm so glad you told me. Which means it's a good time to also do this," he said as he pulled out the ring box and got on one knee. "Janie Marie Guillory, would you make me that happiest man in the world and legally marry me?"

"Oh, Alan," she cooed before she began to cry. "Of course, I will."

---

I hope to have these chapters fully updated sometime in July. 🤞🏾 Hopefully, I can get through another bout off writer's block by then.

But until then, enjoy! 😁

#i know some of these are a long time coming #and i'm sorry for the delay #but writers block has a chokehold on me right now #and i'm being too hard on myself #but that's a story for another day #hope you enjoy #and hope i finish these up #bobby hicks #edward blackridge #max schreck #alan ward #fanfiction #wip #current wip #work in progress #fanfic #willem dafoe

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