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#only reaching out not to check on us or with genuine concern/care. only when they are fishing for gossip or being nosy abt our lives

eccentricwritingbaby · 1 month

Text

yes, and?

lando norris x reader

summary - you’re famous, he’s famous - your new relationship is out for criticism with the world to see. neither of you care. loose basis on ‘yes, and?’ by ariana grande.

masterlist

the nightclub was hot, sweaty, and loud as you followed your boyfriend inside. his broad frame was your only view as he proceeded lightly pushing through the crowd in order to get to your reserved area holding your shared friends. his hand tightened in yours while bypassing through tight spaces and yours in his when odd people here and there got too close. his protective nature always had you tingly and warm, especially as his eyes would turn ever so often over his shoulder in order to check on you. the short eye contact that was shared also highlighted a smile from you both, an unspoken identifier of gentle comfort.

when reaching your shared group of friends in the vip section, your hands briefly separate for greetings and ‘hello’s’ as you pass through to the seating. his hand then finds yours again, just as it always does, and he pulls you towards him.

flashes are constantly seen when you both are out, separately and together, therefore having phones shoved around you both or in your direction is normal. both yours and lando’s manager had emphasized that pda would bring more criticism towards your relationship, but you both were so far off the deep end into your honeymoon phase you didn’t care.

lando’s fans didn’t like you because they believed they had a chance with him. or they preferred his exes. or they thought you were the reason he keeps not winning. your fans didn’t like lando because they liked your ex. or they believed you could do better. or they loved your single era.

either way, neither of your fans enjoyed the fresh relationship, but you and lando sure as hell did. you first met out at a club as he was in the dj booth and you were in your vip area. locked eyes and the rest was history. you left the club that night together, woke up in the same bed the next morning, and the internet caught it all. not that either of you minded, you were actually glad you didn’t have to go through the hoops of soft-launches and hiding from the public. within the next week you had joined lando for a race weekend and only stirred the pot further.

lando’s hand tugged you over to where max and pietra were sitting down on the couches. you said your hello’s and took a seat next to p, furthering your discussions.

lando lightly touches your shoulder in order to steal your attention, “sorry, love, i’m getting a drink, what’ll you have?” you give him your order and he taps his lips to your forehead as max and him begin to make their way to the bar.

“and how are you feeling, y/n?” p asks you. you raise your eyebrows at her question in order for her to expand as she adds on, “you know, the media and all,” she gestures with her hands to your surroundings, the plethora of people holding their phones onto either you or lando.

“oh that,” you shake off your confusion with laughter, “ya, i pay no mind to all that, having been in the public for a while or so now, i’m used to it by now,”

“right, i just hope it’s not affecting your relationship with lando, you know?” p offers to you with a genuine smile in concern.

“it won’t, we both don’t mind, it happened with his ex and mine, the main difference now is that we both don’t care and are used to it,” you shrug and make eye contact with your boyfriend and his friend approaching both you and p with your drinks. lando drops down into the seat next to you, as max takes the seat next to p and across from his best friend.

“thank you, love” you speak quietly to him, he hums in acceptance as he places his lips against your cheek.

“you’re welcome, baby, anytime,” you giggle at his response and he throws an arm over the back of your seat. you both thrived in your own little world, you were not planning on leaving each other or the honeymoon stage anytime soon, to hell with the public and media.

after a while at the club - lando heading over to hijack the dj booth, you and your girls having the time of your lives on the dance floor - your boyfriend saw your eyes drooping a bit lower than normal and he knew it was time for you both to head out. he made his way over to where you were swaying with your girls and gently tugged on your upper arm, pulling you into him. you stumbled a bit back into him but he held you upright, as he always does.

“c’mon, love,” he bends down to whisper into your ear, “let’s go home,” you smile up at him as he grabs your hand, beginning to make your goodbye’s and heading for the door.

lando had stopped drinking an hour or so ago, knowing he would drive you two back to his home. you, on the other hand, had a few. not enough where you were a mess, but enough where your brain and mouth were no longer connected and you easily said whatever came to mind. lando found your drunken honesty to be adorable, your manager and publicist hated it. it had gotten you into a few tabloids and made you topics of talk shows, but nothing major - all sort of hilarious in your opinion. your fans called it iconic, and you might believe it to be too.

“you ready?” lando turns around to ask you as you’ve reached the door. you peer quickly around his frame to see the paparazzi flooded at the entrance to the club.

one deep breath in and you nod at your boyfriend, him assuring you quickly with a brief kiss to your lips and a whispered ‘stay close’ as he holds your hand tighter to himself, pushing the door open subjecting you to the wide array of flashing lights.

“LANDO! OVER HERE!”

“Y/N Y/L/N HERE! GIVE US A SMILE!”

the paparazzi had been calling out to either of you as you both continued your walk to lando’s car and away from the club. you were a bit giggly at their questions and felt the need to say at least something to the group. as if lando could feel it, his head whipped back to check on you and it shook with a slight implication of ‘don’t do it’. you just gave him a wide smile in return.

“Y/N! Y/N! WHAT IS YOUR RESPONSE TO FANS CALLING YOUR RELATIONSHIP A PR STUNT?!”

you laugh at the question and turn around, “IT’S NOT!” you yell back with a giggle. the paparazzi surrounding you all laugh as well at your response. you continue to walk backwards facing the group, inviting them to keep following and asking.

“HOW DO YOU RESPOND TO PEOPLE SAYING YOU MOVED ON TOO FAST?!” another man with a camera yells towards you.

“I DIDN’T! I LOVE HIM!” you shout back with another echo of laughs, lando looks down at you with amusement as he pulls you closer to him and opens the passenger side door of his car for you. he leads you into the car and the paparazzi still swarms around.

“YOU LOVE A NO WINS RACE CAR DRIVER?” a pap asks quickly as lando is beginning to shut your door.

you roll the window down and look into the man’s eye, “yes, and?”

your business is yours and mine is mine, why do you care so much whose d*ck i ride?

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onlyhereforthestories · 2 months

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Bumpy History - Part 4 (Aitana x Reader)

It was a hot, sunny afternoon, and the team had just wrapped up a particularly chilled training session. You were chatting with Alexia, your best friend on the team when you noticed Aitana sitting alone on a bench nearby, seemingly lost in her thoughts. Concerned for your now friend, you excused yourself from the conversation with the captain and made your way over to Aitana. She looked up as you approached, offering a small smile.

"Hey, Aitana, is everything okay?" you asked, taking a seat beside her.

Aitana hesitated for a moment before she replied, "Yeah, I'm okay. Just thinking about some stuff, sorry I’m a little in my head."

You could tell there was more to it, but you didn't want to press her. Just as you were about to change the subject, Alexia approached you both.

"Mind if I talk to Aitana for a moment y/n?" Alexia asked, her tone casual, but her eyes locked onto Aitana.

Aitana shifted uncomfortably, but you nodded, "Of course, Ale. What's up?" You took this as your cue to get up and leave, running to catch up to Patri who was about to head into the changing rooms. You weren’t even slightly aware of the conversation about to be had in your wake.

Alexia took a deep breath, something that only meant this wasn’t going to be an easy conversation and then turned to Aitana. "Aitana, I've got a question for you. I've noticed that you and Y/n have been spending a lot of time together lately, and it seems like you two have been getting close."

Aitana's eyes darted between you and Alexia. "Yeah, we've been hanging out more. She's a great friend."

Alexia raised an eyebrow, not convinced by the response. "That's good to hear, but I think there's more to it, Aitana. Y/n means a lot to me, and I want to make sure she's not just a passing interest for you. Are you serious about where things could be going with her?"

Aitana looked down at her hands, her expression pensive. "I... I like Y/n, Alexia. More than just as a friend, I mean. I didn't want to say anything because I didn't want to make things complicated. We are still new to the even getting on thing and I know that was my fault growing up, but I really don’t want to ruin this before its even really got started."

Alexia's demeanour softened as she heard Aitana's shy admission and subsequent rambling. She reached out and placed a hand on Aitana's shoulder. "Aitana, Y/n cares about you a lot too. I can see that. Just be honest with her. If you like her, tell her. You both deserve to be happy."

Aitana nodded, and her gaze met yours as you turned around to check on them before heading into your destination of the changing rooms. "Thanks, Alexia. I appreciate your honesty. I'll talk to Y/n."

After Aitana confessed to Alexia and the realization that she had deeper feelings for you than just friendship, she knew she wouldn’t be able to keep her emotions in check as easily any longer. She knew that she needed to think about talking to you and telling you honestly how she felt, but that still scared her to death. Even if she had realised it was true.

Training had been done and dusted for about an hour. You had managed to get home, change into some comfy clothes and start cooking lunch when your doorbell rang. You stirred the sauce in the pot one more time quickly before making your way to the door, slightly confused as you weren’t expecting anyone.

You answered the door with a friendly smile, but the surprise on your face was evident when you saw Aitana standing there. "Aitana, what are you doing here?" you were genuinely curious, you were sure you hadn’t meant to be seeing her again today.

Aitana cleared her throat, her nerves getting the better of her. "I needed to talk to you, Y/n. Can I come in?" You stepped aside, allowing her entrance into your space. Aitana followed you to the kitchen, where she took a deep breath and tried to find the right words.

"Y/n, I've been thinking about us a lot, and I realized that I can't keep these feelings to myself anymore," she began. "I like you, more than just as a friend. I've liked you for a while now, and I want to be honest about it."

Your eyes widened in surprise, and you took a moment to process Aitana's confession. "Aitana, I..." you began but then paused, unsure of how to respond.

Aitana used your silence to continue knowing if she didn’t say this now, she probably never would, "I understand if this is too much to handle, or if you don't feel the same way. But I didn't want to hide my feelings any longer, I couldn’t. Seeing you every day from a distance didn’t let those feeling boil up too much and I could deal with them back then but now we are closer, and we talk and I get to see all of you I can’t not feel these things."

You could see the vulnerability in her eyes, and you appreciated her honesty. You took a step closer to her, closing the gap between the two of you.

"Aitana, I appreciate your honesty. I have felt that way about you for a long time but never thought this would happen because of our past." you admitted, your voice soft.

Aitana's eyes widened, and a hopeful smile tugged at her lips. "Wait, you do?" You had to giggle a little at the fact that she only really took in the reciprocated feelings part.

You nodded. "Yes. I didn't know how to bring it up either. I was also so scared to break the new friendship we had started as that was so much better than before."

Aitana's smile grew even brighter before she let a more serious look overtake her features. "I am sorry about all those years I was mean and standoffish; I think I got it in my head we couldn’t be friends or anything because we were so similar in playstyle. And you were just so pretty it was hard for me to hide that so I did the only thing I could think of at that age and that was be mean. If you accept my apology, I'd like to take you out on a proper date, Y/n?"

You couldn't help but smile as well. "I'd love to, Aitana."

It took a little while for you and Aitana to sort out going on a proper date, you had been having coffee and lot and taking little walks after training, but it had been hard to find some extended time where you were both free. You knew that tonight was a free night for both of you so you had plans for the date tonight, but Aitana had yet to tell you those plans.

It had sort of become normal for you both to meet for coffee in the morning of later training days like today, so you were headed to meet the woman you were definitely already falling for. Aitana had been all excited when she saw you walking into which you gave her a puzzled look until she produced two tickets with a grin. You looked at them and saw it was for the Barca men’s game that evening.

“I have booked somewhere for dinner first but then would this be okay?” The pure excitement in her eyes melted your heart more than you would ever say to her.

“Of course, you know I love Barca. Football is what brought us together, so I think this is the perfect first date.”

It had taken you a while to get ready but when you finally chose what to wear you knew it would make a good impression, the pants hung right around your toned legs and the blouse you paired it with brought out your eyes. What you weren’t expecting when you walked into the restaurant was for Aitana to agree with your choice quite so publicly. You walked through the door and took your blazer off just before the waiter showed you towards the table that Aitana was already seated at, as you approached the brunette her eyes took you in.

“Dios mi. You look incredible y/n. Jesus those trousers on you.” You giggled at her slightly flustered face when she realised what she said and just how loud she said it. But you thanked her none the less and mentioned how wonderful she looked in her black dress.

The both of you ordered your meals before you really started to converse. You both found it easy to talk and the conversation flowed effortlessly in the perfect atmosphere set by the restaurant. The meal took longer than anticipated due to you both talking through eating, so you were now rushing to get to the ground for kick off. Aitana had your hand in hers as she dashed from the cab into the crowds heading for the famous stadium.

As you both settled into the seats Aitana had gotten, you couldn't help but steal glances at said woman, you were captivated by the way she immersed herself in the game and atmosphere around her. Her eyes sparkled as she took in the fans screams and the players gearing up to kick off, you could tell football really wasn’t just a job to her.

You were loving the experience of watching a game with the enthusiastic beauty next to you, she would scream at every decision by the ref, get to her feet when Barca were close to scoring and sing along to the chants reverberating round the stadium. What filled you with the most warmth though was when shed pull you up with her or turn to you to explain why the ref got a call so wrong. The fact that she was involving you in what clearly was one of her favourite things just solidified for you that you were indeed falling for her.

You were so enthralled with watching her excitement you didn’t realise Barca had scored until your eyes caught the satisfied smirk on the brunette beauties face, you instantly turned away to hide the red cheeks you were now sporting but stood up to clap and cheer with her. As you sat back down you felt Aitana lean over into your space.

“Keep making eyes like that at me and we will miss the end of the match.” Your jaw dropped at that and the heat that had only really just left your cheeks came back with a vengeance, Aitana just smiled and winked at your reaction. You wouldn’t admit it to her, but her boldness was rather endearing.

Barca did win the game and you did watch it all no thanks to you and your wandering eyes and all thanks to Aitana and her kindness to pretend she didn’t know you were still doing it.

You weren’t sure what the future held for you or your growing relationship but what you did know was that you were open for the journey it took you on. As long as Aitana was by your side through it you didn’t care.

#woso x reader #woso imagines #woso imagine #aitana bonmati imagine #aitana bonmati x reader

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familyvideostevie · 1 year

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OH EM GEE LOVED THAT GRUMPY X SUNSHINE FIC WITH JAMES SO MUCH, I was wondering about a grumpy!sirus and sunshine!reader/ sunshine and sunshine protector (omg that trope with a platonic marauders 😩😩) I lvoe your writing so much babe <333

thank you thank you! here is some grumpy!sirius and sunshine!reader. i still don't know that i've got this trope totally down correctly but hope you like it anyway! :) | fem!reader, fluff, 1k

You can hardly hear Remus when you pick up the phone. You check the clock on the wall. It's time for him to be at the pub with James and Sirius, so you're not sure why he's calling.

"Hello?" you say.

"Oh, thank fuck," Remus cries. If he's cursing, you know something is up.

"What's wrong? Is Sirius there?" You expect that maybe he's gotten into trouble with another patron or that he's let his phone die and asked Remus to tell you.

"Is that her? Did you get her? Beg her, Remus. Tell her I'll buy her drinks for a week!" James is shouting in the background to be heard through the phone.

"I'm handling it," Remus calls back. You pull the speaker away from your ear as he does. What is going on? "Sorry," he says, much quieter now. He must have cupped his hand over the microphone. "Listen, can you come out to the pub? Our regular one?"

"But it's boy's night," you say. They invite you round more often than not, but it's important to you that they get to have their time as mates, too.

"I know," he sighs. "But--" There's a bit of a commotion and a lot of cursing and then James comes on the line.

"Please, for the love of all that is good and holy, can you come 'round? Your boyfriend is being miserable and it's going to get us kicked out. And this is my favorite spot!" Your stomach ties itself in a knot. Sirius? He hasn't texted you about anything concerning beyond reminding you that he'd be home later than usual.

"Is he okay?" James must hear your concern because he backpedals.

"Oh, yeah, he's fine, love, honest. We just ran into that tosser Lestrange on the way over and he's a bit sour. Family drama, and all that. Can you just come and get him to chill the fuck out, please?"

You're already reaching for your purse. It still makes you a little giddy that everyone knows you're the one who Sirius responds to the most. For some reason you can always bring him out of a mood, and you like doing it. "I'll be there in fifteen minutes or so."

"Is she coming?" Remus calls from the background. "Can I have my phone back now, please?" You end the call and shove your feet into your shoes and head out the door. You're not really in a pub-going outfit, but it'll have to do. You know that Sirius won't care much.

When you get to the bar you shoulder your way to the back where you know they'll be. Familiar faces call out your name and you wave to them, dispensing smiles and greetings with genuine happiness.

Your heart swells when you finally get to the back booth. Sirius is sat on one side, glaring at the beer in his hands. James and Remus are chatting to some other friends close by. As soon as you take a step towards your boyfriend, he looks up, like he sensed you coming. And his entire body transforms. He sits up straighter, his hands loosening their grip on the glass. He doesn't smile, not quite, but his jaw unclenches and his pupils dilate.

You beam at him. He quickly scoots out of the booth to greet you, hands outstretched as you reach for him in turn.

"My girl," he says, kissing your cheek before pulling you in for a hug. "What are you doing here?" Sirius rarely sounds delighted unless he's talking about how his club crushed their rival or how he managed to trick James into glueing his hand to his face, but this is pretty close.

You shrug in his hold. "Got bored at home." He pulls away and smoothes his thumb over one of your eyebrows.

"Hmm," he says. "Try again." You laugh, loudly and freely, and that does get him to smile. Only a little, but you count it as a victory. His smiles are like treasures and you keep them all in a lock-box in your chest.

"Remus called," you tell him honestly. He makes an annoyed noise, looking over his shoulder to glare at his friends. Both of them resolutely keep their gaze elsewhere.

Sirius leads you back to the booth and you settle in next to him, thigh pressed to his. He drapes an arm around you. Seeing that the danger has passed, James and Remus slide in on the other side.

"I told them not to bother you," Sirius says, frowning. But his hands betray him, one curling around your shoulder and the other resting warm and heavy on your kneecap.

"As if this is a bother," you scold. "Plus, James said he'd buy my drinks." You look at your t-shirt -- and old one of Sirius', and frown. "I wish I had thought to change, though."

"No," he says quickly. His fingers tuck under the collar to press into your bare skin. "No, I like this."

"It's fucking magic," Remus mutters from the other side of the booth. "Unbelievable."

James has his head in his hands. "It's like he didn't tell me to shove my head up my ass ten minutes ago." Sirius flips them off and leans in close, pressing his lips to your ear.

"It's obvious you're wearing my shirt," he says, voice gravely. You flight the urge to shiver. "Got me thinking all kinds of inappropriate things over here."

"Alright, you're going to get us kicked out for a different reason," James whines. You look at him and he winks. It's obvious that you're the keeper of Sirius's happiness and no one minds all that much, considering they love him. You all do. It's the easiest thing in the world.

#sirius black x reader #sirius black x you #sirius black x y/n #sirius black #sirius black fanfiction #marauders fanfiction #marauders

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mooshywrites · 3 months

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Okay, so Wyll is very much the prince charming type, so hear me out: him romancing a Tav with equally strong princely energy. Turns into some weird competition where both are trying to out-gentleman each other. (The other companions get greatly annoyed by this when they spend ten minutes standing next to a door trying to insist they be the one to hold the door for the other lmao)

Ever the Gentleman

Gn!Reader x Wyll

Masterlist

Art commissions

─── ⋆⋅☼⋅⋆ ───

A/N - Oh this is ‘love is war’ vibes for sure

Warnings - a lil silly, a lil goofy

─── ⋆⋅☼⋅⋆ ───

Today would be different. Today, you would not lose. Not against him.

Both you and Wyll had been locked in a furious battle for weeks now. It had started off innocently enough, simple gestures of genuine politeness.

It was hard not to admit that you prided yourself on chivalry, used to being the most courteous person in any group. Most of it came naturally, but you also couldn’t help playing up the princely act now and again.

You had offered to pour him a glass of wine at the end of the night, only for him to brush off the invitation. With a flourish, he poured you both a glass, even having the decency to give up his cushion for you to sit upon.

It didn’t raise any cause for concern within you, just yet. After all, The Blade of Frontiers was simply doing a small favor. If it had ended there, that is.

No, however, it didn’t just end there. After that, you noticed the little gestures everywhere. How Wyll refused to let you be the one to go through the trouble of making a campfire, how he insisted on carrying your heavy purchases back to the camp, how he’d jump at the opportunity to help you out of the armor at the end of the day.

The final blow hit you when you offered to help him with his own armor. Wyll gave you the warm, charming smile he always did when he decided to be extra polite.

“Oh, I couldn’t let such a pretty face go out of their way for someone like me.” He assured.

Flames rose in your chest as you stared back at him, the realization finally dawning on you.

This little devil is trying to out gentleman you.

After that, it was an all out war. You made a show of being the most chivalrous person anyone could ever hope to be. You refilled his glass as soon as it was half empty, you offered a hand to Wyll when there was the slightest of inclines, you insisted on checking every new area for traps lest the warlock hurt himself.

It seemed to take a few days for Wyll to catch on to what you were doing. Instead of calling attention to your obviously petty behavior, he only raised the stakes higher.

He insisted on paying for everything, treating you and your companions to the best food Wyrm’s Crossing had to offer. He took care of a majority of the laundry, sneaking away when you weren’t looking to scrub the blood out of your favorite tunic. Gods forbid there was so much of a puddle in your path, because if Wyll saw it, his cape would be over it in a split second. The action ensuring that you would never have a muddy boot ever again.

But not today. No, he wouldn’t win today.

You had a full proof plan for the ultimate gentlemanly act. When you entered the tavern today, you would be the one to hold the door open. Not Wyll.

You practically ran to the door when it was in sight, holding it open for your companions proudly. Wyll stood in front of the group, poised to be the first one to enter.

“Don’t trouble yourself, I’d be happy to hold that for you.” Wyll grinned, reaching for the handle of the door.

You fought the urge to smack his hand away.

“Not a trouble at all, after you.” You retorted, giving the most assured smile you could manage.

“Oh, but I insist!” Wyll replied, placing his hand on the space above yours.

“No, I insist.” You gritted out, your smile strained.

”Surely you don’t expect me to let such a treasure hold open a door for that long.” He bit back, his own smile coming across as more sly by the minute.

“Surely, I do.” You narrowed your eyes, your grin still plastered across your features.

“Gods above, I’ll happily go first.” Astarion quipped, sliding past the two of you and heading into the tavern

The rest of your companions followed suit, ignoring the intense battle of eye contact you and Wyll were trapped in.

“I won’t let you win this.” You huffed under your breath.

“I think that you will, in the end.” Wyll smiled before widening the door, making you lose your grip on the wooden handle.

You glared at him, already scheming for the next battle of wits.

“You may have won the battle, Blade. But you will not win the war.” You seethed.

Wyll had the grace to not argue back, only rising your temperatures higher. Instead, he bowed slightly, gesturing an arm out into the tavern.

“After you, please.” He looked up for a moment, winking at you.

“I insist.”

#wyll #wyll x reader #blurb #baldurs gate 3 #baldurs gate 3 blurb #wyll blurb #baldurs gate 3 wyll #bg3 #bg3 wyll #wyll fluff #wyll ravenguard x reader #wyll ravengard #baldurs gate wyll #wyll x tav #wyll romance

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if-lost-please-return-to-maliksi · 6 months

Text

ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES - PT.1

Disclaimer: I do not own Maliksi, or Makisig (the Tamawo bros). Full Credit goes to HC - @ask-emilz-de-philz. Please check out their blog for amazing art and the wonderful world of Planet Puto.. All involved characters are adults. This might or might not be a self insert, please don't come for me.

PT.2 (ANGST Version) here.

PT.2 (FLUFF Version) here.

Makisig has an eerily human-like demeanor despite being a Tamawo, he talks and sometimes act with a sense of concern and empathy that you can definitely mistake him for a human if not for his golden hands and tongue, and the undeniable strength and looming presence he usually hides behind his gentle smile.

Maliksi on the otherhand, despite being shorter, and looking a lot younger than Makisig is much prone to showing his inhuman side. His usual expression is a glare, looking down in disgust to those binibinis following him and his Kuya around.

Unlike his kuya Makisig, Maliksi does not have any considerable grasp of how humans process emotions, he barely has grasp on how to process his own. He definitely lives up to his name with how fast his mood changes. A smile tugging on his lips, and a glimpse of genuine happiness only happens whenever he's around his Kuya, however, there is one emotion that comes easy for him- rage.

Rage that he carried inside him for decades

Rage that consumed him, the night he found his brother, lifeless from the hands of the humans he loved and protected.

Rage that kept burning on his soul... because how dare this puny creatures of flesh have the audacity to lay their filthy hands on his only family.

Maliksi's resentment towards humans grow deeper whenever he sees his Kuya interact with the binibinis because how can someone who undergone such pain and violence be so gentle and caring? His brother makes it look easy- smiling at them, comforting them, making them fall inlove.

Why can't he do the same?

Why can't he forgive them?

The first time Maliksi saw you in the woods, you tried using a fallen branch of Santol tree to try fight him off but immediately chucked it to the ground and squealed when a salagubang fell into your hand. It took all of his self control not to pick up the insect and throw it at you since his Kuya Makisig is watching.

You spent time with the two brothers at the Lost City, along with some other binibinis. The two only has 2 simple rules - no roaming around unsupervised by any of them, and no talking to other tamawos.

It is not a secret that the two are very different from the other tamawos- well, atleast Makisig is, and Maliksi is willing to do anything to keep his brother happy, even setting aside his distaste for humans and following his brother's virtues, keeping it as his own. Under their care, you and the other binibinis have the free will to decide for your fate.

Every single thing is discussed by Makisig, making sure all of you knew what you were getting yourselves into. Those who changed their minds about staying are allowed to return to their old lives, with their memory of the brothers and Biringan City erased.

You were sure to fall inlove with Makisig- he is the older brother, the sensible one, he is sweet and caring, yet you found yourself being drawn to his younger brother, Maliksi.

⋆⭒˚｡⋆.

"Tsk. Why do you want to stroll today of all the days?" Maliksi rolled his eyes as he walks with you. The Lost City of Biringan is truly magnificent- a bustling metropolis that has everything, from towering skyscrapers to the sleekest automobiles. Its inhabitants enjoy a level of convenience and luxury unlike anything we can imagine, with technology that far surpasses anything currently available in our own world.

Maliksi is still quietly mumbling to himself while you are just so absorbed with everything you were seeing that you didn't noticed how you were now following a complete stranger who took a turn into a sketchy alley- the establishments started getting fewer until you reached a dead end, the stranger you have mistakenly followed is now nowhere in sight.

Meanwhile, Maliksi just noticed that he has lost you. "Oh shit, Y/n got out of my sight. Kuya will be mad, mad if I don't return with her in one piece." he said in gritted teeth as he started looking for you.

When Maliksi found you, you were a snotty, sobbing mess, hugging your own knees for comfort like a lost toddler. He was angry at your stupidity, getting lost in such a foreign city with possible dangers, yet he can't deny how...cute your current state is. He pulled you to stand on your feet before wiping your tears with the sleeves of his shirt since he doesn't carry around a handkerchief like his Kuya.

"Come on, stop crying. I found you." He grinned, trying not to laugh at how much you're crying, not wanting you to feel bad further.

That's it. You were a lost cause. You have found yourself slowly falling inlove with the wrong brother- the one who would absolutely not understand your feelings, you are definitely stupid on that part.

Maliksi is not nice at all, he is oftentimes rude and whenever you ask questions, he answers sarcastically. He is often caught in some serious banter with the other ladies, only calming down once his brother steps in. You also took note of how childish he is- eating only sweets and playing video games whenever his brother is too busy tending to the ladies' needs, yet you seem to also notice how he deeply loves his brother and how he looks up to him and genuinely supports his beliefs and moral values.

Days have passed and you found yourself stealing him glances, making his favorite kutsinta, in pretense that it's actually for Makisig, yet putting it somewhere Maliksi would see first so he'll get to eat and enjoy it. Whenever Makisig spends time with you like he does with the other binibinis, you end up telling him that you'd like to play videogames so he'll end up also spending time with Maliksi, wanting to secretly see his smiles.

You never told anyone about your feelings, nor do you plan to because you knew that it is one sided. You were content with secretly making Maliksi happy without anything in return- that is enough.

The thing is, Maliksi actually noticed those small favors you were doing for him. He was definitely annoyed at first- he's a tamawo, what would he possibly gain from a human like you, afterall, humans are all the same in his eyes- just creatures driven by flesh and lust who will trample anything for their own desires...yet when he realized how you were letting him spend more time with his Kuya Makisig, he couldn't deny that it made him happy.

He doesn't understand your reasoning or thoughts at all. Why would you be doing him favors when you're not asking for anything. In his eyes, you are one weird, yet fascinating human.

He started gradually showing hints of appreciation- gleefuly eating the kutsinta you made where you can see him, looking forward to Makisig spending time with you because he knows that you'll choose an activity that will let him hangout with his brother, and although he wouldn't say it out loud, he's thankful for what you do.

⋆⭒˚｡⋆.

"I wish to return home." You softly said in front of the two brothers. Makisig was surprised, his mouth opening to say something but he briefly closes it before agreeing, no questions asked, even though he is quite disappointed since he's seen how his brother has been happier and less angry with you around.

Maliksi on the otherhand is now frowning. "Why? What's wrong with staying here?! I thought you like it here..." He sounded like a child close to throwing a tantrum- just like how he is when you first arrived and all he knows is his annoyance with humans.

"Well...I-"

"Just don't go expecting us to help you when you get lured back by other tamawos in the future!" He huffed before walking away, slamming the door behind him.

You bitterly smiled at his reaction, knowing that he won't understand it even if you explain it to him. This is the least you can do for yourself. You're still young...once you return home, you won't remember him, not his golden eyes, not the cute mole on his cheeks you always dream of kissing, not his adorable smile whenever he eats sweets...and maybe, just maybe you'll find someone who can understand your feeling back at home. Maybe you'll fall inlove again, with someone who can be yours in this lifetime...That's all you could hope for.

(May part 2, kalma mga beshie.) Art by: @ask-emilz-de-philz, that's their OC, Maliksi the Tamawo. Please support them <3

#planet puto #philmytcrea #rp tamawo #planetputo

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cloudcountry · 1 year

Text

chamomile tea and honey

Genre/Tropes: Hurt/Comfort. Can be read as platonic or romantic.

Summary: Alchemy can be so overwhelming, but if there's anyone you can trust to help you with your current state it's Ruggie.

Author's Comments: This has descriptions of panic attacks! Please tread carefully. Also I took the approach of a reader that finds touch grounded when having a panic attack since I've written a few pieces before were reader is very much no touching!! This oneshot is featuring an unusually soft Grim because I feel like we don't see the side of him that genuinely cares about MC enough.

~~~~~

You weren’t sure what happened.

One second you were fine, mixing ingredients with Grim and Floyd as a part of your alchemy class. The next thing you know, Ace and Deuce began fighting near the cauldron next to you, causing Floyd to be distracted and knock over a vial of some weird herb. You could only try to salvage what you could of your work as the two began yelling. Floyd egged them on and the fumes of your ruined potion stunk up the room, overwhelming your senses. The yelling made your eardrums ring as you struggled for breath, your head growing gradually hotter. It was only a matter of time before Crewel dragged the three troublemakers to the front of the classroom, leaving you hunched down beside your cauldron. Grim looked genuinely concerned, his paws petting your face gently and it took you a minute to realize that you were crying.

“Hey, Teach!” a familiar voice called, “I think the Ramshackle Prefect got hit by something. They don’t look too good. Can I bring them to the infirmary?”

You didn’t hear the professor’s response over the sound of your pounding heart, but it must have been affirmative since the mystery person swung your left arm over their shoulders and lifted you up off the ground.

“Come on, work with me here. Getting you out of this environment will make things better, I promise.” he grunted, helping you to the blurry classroom door.

It wasn’t until you were out in the corridor that you found the strength to peel your other hand away from your face. Hunched down in front of you was none other than Ruggie Bucchi, his eyes staring into yours.

“Are you breathing alright?” he asked, placing a hand on the floor to hold himself up as he tilted his head to get a better look at you.

You shook your head frantically, taking large gulps of air. Ruggie moved closer to you, brushing his fingers against your hand.

“Is this okay?”

You nodded.

He brought your hand up to his chest, placing it right over his heart.

“I want you to breathe with me, okay?” he whispered, giving you a few moments to get used to the contact before he sucked in a deep breath.

You tried to match his pace for a few breaths, trying to rein yourself back in when you felt your breath speed up again. Ruggie was incredibly patient with you, his breathing remaining steady. His rhythm stayed constant even as you finally came down from hyperventilating.

He gave you a few more seconds of recovery before he spoke again.

“Can you speak?” he whispered, sitting down on the carpeted floor.

“Yes.” you mumbled, tearing your gaze away from him.

Grim had been uncharacteristically quiet throughout this entire exchange, but you could still feel his paws pressed to your arm. The show of concern warmed your heart—Grim was usually far more demanding and harsh when he was with you, but deep down maybe even he could be soft.

“Do you want to stay here? I can walk with you if not. We can walk around the school or go straight to the infirmary.”

You were so thankful Ruggie seemed to know what to do in this situation. He was keeping his distance, constantly checking your body over for any signs of discomfort.

“I want to get away from here.” you reached out for him, finally raising your head to meet his gaze.

“Okay.” he grabbed your hand, helping you to your feet, “Do you think you can walk on your own? If you’re still shaky I can help you.”

“I think I’ll be fine...but can you keep holding me?” you asked, wrapping your other arm around his.

“Of course. Just let me know if you need anything, okay?” Ruggie squeezed your hand gently.

You were in a daze as you walked with him, your eyes unfocused. His eyes were focused on the wall ahead of you, his pace never wavering.

“We’re here.” Ruggie removed his hand from yours and pressed it to your back.

You registered your knees hitting a cot before Ruggie lifted you up. You jerked a bit, startled as he laid you down with unexpected gentleness. You finally made eye contact with him as he slipped his hands out from under you. There was a moment of silence within the infirmary as he pulled up a chair and sat at your bedside.

“Can I get you anything?” Ruggie mumbled, crossing his arms on your cot as he rested his head on them.

“You’re being...unusually serious.” you hummed, trying to lighten the serious mood you weren't accustomed to with Ruggie of all people.

Ruggie snorted, “Well, you’re definitely more relaxed now. I’m glad, seeing you all panicked was creepy.”

You rolled your eyes, deciding to spare Ruggie from commenting on how his eyebrows were still furrowed with worry. The boy in question lunged forward and ruffled your hair. You whacked his hand away and he winced playfully, holding the hand close to his heart.

“You wound me, Prefect! And here I was, about to make you some tea. It’ll cost you ten thaumarks now!” he laughed, eyes narrowing at you.

“Ruggie...that’s an outrageous price for tea. Even if you’re the one that made it.” you sighed, slamming your head back onto the pillow.

“Aww, are you saying my tea is worth at least nine thaumarks?” Ruggie turned away, starting to make his way back towards the door, “I’ll be right back Prefect, I’m just going to the cafeteria. You hang tight.”

“Ruggie...you don’t have to. I feel a lot better since I’m out of that environment.” you acknowledged Grim climbing into your lap with a soft pet on his head.

“If it’s about paying me, don’t worry. This is on the house.” Ruggie shot you one last smile before he disappeared from your view.

“Hey...are you okay? I can’t have my henchman going out of commission on me.” Grim finally spoke up the second Ruggie left the room, his blue eyes filled with worry.

“I’m okay Grim. You don’t need to worry about me.” you scratched behind his ears affectionately.

“I wasn’t worried! You just looked so freaked out and...and I don’t know who else would do my bidding if you were troubled!” Grim had bounced back because of your confirmation, his normal smug expression returning, “Now keep scratching me! I don’t remember telling you that you could stop.”

“Right, right.” you hummed, your previously muddled brain slowing to soft waves of calm thoughts.

It wasn’t long before Ruggie came back, a small tray in his hands. You sat up in bed again, watching his entrance with a smile.

“Someone’s happy to see me.” he teased, placing the tray in your lap, "I decided to make some chamomile tea for you to help with your stress! I wouldn't want you to be stressed out so much you have a panic attack again.”

“Thank you, Ruggie. I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't dragged me out of there.” you gently picked up the teacup, taking a small breath, “And I know that sounds cheesy so please don't laugh at me.”

Ruggie was silent for a few beats before he chuckled, placing his hand on your shoulder and rubbing gently.

“Hey, we take care of each other around here, alright? You needed me. And the next time I need someone to do me a favor, I expect you to follow through!” he laughed, but he made no move to leave your side.

“Of course.” you rolled your eyes, amused, “I've never let you down before.”

#auburn's fics <3 #twisted wonderland x reader #twst x reader #fluff #tw: panic attack #reader has a panic attack #ruggie takes care of them #hyena propaganda #me when ruggie bucchi <333

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captain-mj · 1 year

Note

Ghostsoap Hanahaki disease, maybe? Imagine that it’s after a mission, and one of them has been feeling off the entire time, only made better but simultaneously worse by the other’s presence. They excuse themselves when they feel a horrible sensation and cough up a few petals. Eventually, after they continue to cough up flowers over the course of weeks/months/years and gradually get worse, the other finds out. Maybe it’s too late, or maybe they save them in the nick of time. It can end happy or sad— your choice, of course. :)

I'm literally kicking my feet rn Hanahaki disease is one of my all time favorite fucking tropes

Ghost had felt it through his mask. A faint tickle in the back of his throat like he had caught a cold. He bit back the coughs and ignored it, focusing on Soap.

Soap smiled at him. "Great job, Lt. We make a good team, yeah?"

Ghost went to respond but ended up coughing instead, feeling something in his throat. Ah, yikes. Maybe fibers or something from his mask? Its happened before.

"You alright?" He sounded so genuinely concerned. Soap gently grabbed his arm, looking up at him.

"Yeah..." He ended up coughing again, shoulders shaking just a little. "I'm fine..."

It wasn't until he went through evac, just refusing to talk, that he lifted his mask and coughed into his arm.

Something came up his throat.

Ghost pulled back and looked at the slightly bloody petals. They were five pointed flowers there, only the size of a quarter, and a soft blue. His chest tightened even more and he ended up coughing harder, more of them flowing from his mouth.

Once he managed to clear his lungs, he cleaned everything up, throwing away all of the stupid petals. He knew what it was, but he refused. Love was not something he could feel, let alone have someone feel for him. He was past unlovable.

Ghost pulled himself together and took a deep breath. His lungs rattled and he knew this wasn't over yet.

But it would be fine. Some stupid fucking flowers weren't going to kill him.

Soap sat next to him later and since he wasn't paying attention to it, it didn't feel so bad. At least, that's what he assumed.

Johnny smiled and his chest constricted slightly. He shuddered.

"Cold, Lt?"

"Nah, I'm fine." Ghost reassured and rolled his shoulders. The movement dislodged some of the things in his chest. His breathing whistled and he held back a wince.

Soap looked at him funny. "You sure? I'm sure Price would give you the time off if you..."

"No. Not interested. If that's all you have to say Soap, you can run off now." He glared at him, head tilting forward.

Soap frowned and flowers bloomed in his chest, bloodying his lungs. "Alright, Ghost. Just take care of yourself, yeah?" He walked off and Ghost's chest tightened back up.

Ghost just shook his head. Stupid fucking petals.

When he was alone, he pulled his mask up and tried to cough up as many as he could. These were bloodstained. He tossed them in the trash.

It was Price that first noticed something was... off. Ghost didn't know what he did to tip him off but Price was like a dog with a bone.

"You're slow." Price crossed his arms. "And you keep wheezing."

"Affirmative, sir." He was being cheeky, hoping to throw him off.

Price reached over as if to check his temperature before thinking about it. "Simon."

"I don't need to a break. I want to keep working."

Price looked at him for a moment before shaking his head. "No. If you're sick."

"I'm not sick."

"You could get someone hurt. I know you don't care if you get hurt, but I know you don't want to get anyone else hurt, right?"

Ghost grumbled. "Right..."

"Take the day off. See if you can get over this cold."

Ghost didn't know how to tell him that wouldn't be happening. He ended up showering, using hot water in hopes the steam would choke everything in his lungs.

His chest had loosened a little so he tried to take a deep breath, feeling the small vines and thorns dig into him deeper. The absolute helplessness of his situation settled in and he'd love to be coy. To pretend. But he already knew.

Simon loved Soap.

Soap thought of him as a friend.

Ghost couldn't fix that. Couldn't fix that at all. So he'd try to leave as long as he could. Hopefully a bullet would take him out and no one would ever know of the awful shameful secret.

Flowers filled the bottom of the tub as he coughed. More now. Heather, wildflowers, thistle. All staining the bottom. The water sprayed them, the floral scent filling the bathroom until he thought he'd choke on it. Or maybe that was the petals fighting to fill any part of his lungs they could. Flowing up his throat.

Ghost wasn't sure if the lack of real pain was better or worse. There was the sharp pain from the coughing. An uncomfortable sensation of his lungs having something caught in them. But it didn't hurt. Not enough.

The flowers felt like a painful confirmation which was that Soap really didn't love him back and that hurt. It hurt so much it was overwhelming his senses. He wanted the physical pain. Something to distract him. But there was nothing other than the pressure.

He bit down on everything and swallowed it down. They were just going to keep growing anyway.

Ghost got out of the shower and dried off, quickly covering himself back up. He opened his door and checked his room, making sure no one snuck in before going to his bed. His mask stayed in his hand instead of going on his face. Breathing was hard enough without the extra fabric.

It was months. Months of living like this. Never able to take in a full breath. Always coughing. Almost all of his masks had blood stains on them now, but the black covered it up well enough.

Ghost finally made a mistake. He started coughing so hard while sniping that he couldn't focus. The gun had slipped from his hand and while it luckily didn't give him away, he couldn't provide cover.

"Ghost, how copy?" Soap called through the radio.

He couldn't reply and after a moment, Price got on the radio. "Ghost, sitrep."

Ghost couldn't. He kept coughing, spots were building in his vision but he couldn't... He couldn't breath.

"Simon." Soap sounded worried. "Are you compromised?"

Ghost hit the button so they could hear him. He could only really wheeze at first, but he managed. "Solid."

"Solid? What kept you from answering?" Price pressed.

Ghost went to answer but started to cough. He couldn't stop. The radio cut off as he let go of it.

Thorns had started to set in. They raked at his lungs, cutting through the tissue of his throat. Tears started running down his face and it felt like they were invading his fucking sinuses.

He grabbed the radio. "Mission."

"Simon, I'm coming to where you are."

"No." Ghost hacked, feeling blood and flowers fill his mouth. It tasted so sweet.

His vision started to blur, the spots returning.

Soap was suddenly there. Hitting his back hard as the fit started to finally end, his chest loosening due to proximity. He took off Ghost's mask and any other time, he'd be pissed, as mad as a rabid dog, but he couldn't catch his breath long enough to think.

"Who?" Soap sounded angry.

Ghost shook his head.

"Goddamnit, Simon, why didn't you say something?" Soap looked around. "Who is she? We can find her."

Idiot.

Ghost's blood slicked hand grabbed Soap's shoulder and he leaned into him. Soap's arm went around him in a mockery of a hug.

"Evac isn't too far away. We can pull back, yeah? I'll help. I'll make Price help too."

Stupid Scottish man.

"I used to live next to a field of these. They're scottish bluebells. She a Scot? Maybe you have better taste than I thought."

Ghost pulled back from him, looking at him.

Soap faltered. "your eyes are bloodshot."

Ghost took a breath, chest rattling. "Not a lassie." He put as much mocking into his voice as he could, wanting Soap to know he was using lassie to bully him.

"A lad then? Some Scottish..." Soap paused, looking at him closer.

The silence felt defeaning and Ghost started to cough again. Fresh tears running down his face.

"Don't worry. Never expected you to love me back." Ghost managed to get out. "My body just... took it personally." He smiled, seeing his reflection in Soap's eyes. He really did look like shit. Fucking hell.

"Simon..." Soap said softly and Ghost covered his mouth.

"No. No." Simon shook his head, before slumping into Soap's shoulder. "I don't... I don't want to hear it."

"Simon, please listen."

"I'll never know if it's real."

Soap kissed him anyway. His lips were soft. Ghost was very aware that his own were chapped and stained. His scars pressed against Soap's skin.

It was easier to breath. Ghost hated that it was easier to breath.

"Get up. We need to go."

"Fuck you, MacTavish." Ghost pulled his mask back on and put his gun away.

"Love you too, Ghost." Soap said it sweetly. It hurt. He walked with him and Price looked at the petals that stuck to their clothing and made the decision not to ask.

Ghost followed the order of going to med. He went through the humiliatingly process of letting them touch him and make sure he was okay. His lungs had already started to clear up. Apparently the roots had been severed and they were now drying up.

Soap hung around him like an omen.

"Johnny."

"You thought I wouldn't love you back?" Ghost frowned.

"You sound offended."

"I am." Soap snapped at him, side eyeing him.

"MacTavish..."

"Riley."

Ghost bit his tongue. "I see. My love is a curse. Rather died without knowing than kill you."

"You're a fucking eejit." Soap reached over and Ghost reluctantly let him. It wasn't as bad as the nurses. His hands were warm.

"Don't expect to kiss me again."

"Are you serious?" Soap sighed. "Why? You love me. I know you do." He looked at the petals the nurses had removed from his throat.

Ghost crossed his arms and looked away from him.

Soap leaned in and cupped his face. "Come on."

"You can kiss me occasionally. Mask stays on."

"That won't last."

Ghost glared at him, but like usual, Soap didn't take him seriously.

"I love you, Simon."

Ghost, despite everything, couldn't quite form the words. He instead grabbed one of the cleaner flowers and handed it to him. Soap got the message anyway.

#cod #cod mw2 #call of duty modern warfare #call of duty #call of duty modern warfare ii #soap call of duty #johnny soap mactavish #soapghost #ghostsoap #simon ghost riley #simon riley

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goldenempyrean · 10 months

Text

A Luthor's Vulnerability

〚 Notes - Hello, hello! So @ekowolf (I hope you don't mind the tag) requested to do a pt2 to this fic with some Kara and Alex looking after Lena which I thought was a super cute idea so I hope this suffices :D 〛

〚 Pairing - Supercorp 〛

〚 Summary - It's the day after the conference and Lena isn't feeling any better so Kara takes it upon herself (with some extra help) to look after her. 〛

〚 Wordcount - 1500 〛

〘 Check Out My Masterlist! 〙

〘 Part 1 〙

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When Lena woke up the next day she was in bed, not where she had previously fallen asleep on the sofa the previous night and judging by the sleeping blonde nuzzled into her side she deduced that Kara had carried her here.

She tried to sit up but stopped at the overwhelming woozy feeling nestling in her head, even just moving sent the room orbiting around her. Lena let out a soft groan, feeling the throbbing ache in her head intensify. She winced, trying to remember what had happened the night before, but everything was a blurry haze. All she remembered if that the press confer-

Oh god. The conference?! Ignoring the jolt of aches it sent through her, Lena quickly sat upright and reached over to the nightstand and grabbed her phone from the charger (again, she had Kara to thank for that) before frantically googling her name followed by CatCo. 

To her surprise the majority of articles and news reports which appeared weren’t slandering her name, mocking her or even criticising her judgement. Instead they were sympathetic, highlighting her dedication to work despite clearly being unwell.

As Lena scrolled through the articles, she couldn't help but let out a small sneeze. It was followed by another, and then a third, each one making her feel more miserable. She felt Kara stir beside her, and with a soft groan, the blonde slowly opened her eyes.

“Lena? You okay?” She mumbled, rubbing her eyes as she sat up beside the ravenette.

She nodded, “Kara, it’s fine now. I’m fine now.” Her attempt at dismissing her concerns may have been a little more convincing if she hadn’t trailed off into a couple of raspy coughs which had ultimately upset her sinuses and sent her sneezing loudly down into elbow.

"Bless you, you're such a fibber Lena, you can’t fool me.” Kara sighed as she raised her hand to Lena's forehead to check her temperature. “Still really warm and coming from me that’s not a good thing, we should get you some medicine.”

Lena hesitated, her stubbornness wrestling with her weariness. "You don’t need to. I'm used to taking care of myself, Kara. I've never had anyone look after me when I was sick," she admitted, her voice tinged with vulnerability.

Lillian certainly wasn’t a good mother. Sure, when her darling, prized Lex was ill, she’d be sure to swarm him with affection and love, but for Lena? Hell no. She’d be given a box of tissues and be told to deal with it silently. There was no room for weakness in the Luthor household. As such, she’d leant to fend for herself, but just because she could do it, didn’t mean she was good at it. It was only a few years ago that she’d neglected herself to the point of developing pneumonia and even still, she’d worked through it.

Kara's concern softened her gaze as she gently cupped Lena's flushed cheek. "You don't have to go through this alone anymore, sweetheart. I want to take care of you, so please, let me?" Kara's warmth and sincerity melted the walls Lena had built around herself and the Luthor rested her head against her shoulder.

As Lena leaned into Kara's comforting embrace, she felt a sense of relief wash over her, finally allowing herself to be vulnerable with someone who genuinely cared for her well-being. It was so different from what she had been previously been through but it felt amazing. Kara smiled softly, brushing a few strands of hair away from Lena's forehead.

"Okay, maybe I don’t feel the best.” Lena gave in, muffling a cough into her elbow sharply.

Kara's tender touch extended to Lena's back as she guided her to lie down comfortably, making sure her frame was supported with a pillow, "I know you don’t love so just rest for a moment, and I'll get you some medicine and warm tea," Kara said with a reassuring smile before leaving her with a soft kiss as she left the room briefly.

As Lena lay there, she couldn't help but feel touched by Kara's caring nature. It was such a contrast to the cold and distant environment she had grown up in. Her thoughts were rudely interrupted by a sudden tickle in her nose, and before she could react, a loud sneeze escaped her, followed by another one.

"Bless you," Kara said as she returned with a cup of hot tea, medicine and a box of tissues. "Looks like you're in need of these."

Lena chuckled softly, feeling a little embarrassed. "Thanks Kara, you’re so good to me.”

Despite taking the medicine as the day progressed, Lena's fever continued to rise, leaving her feeling weaker and more miserable. She was shivering one moment and sweating the next, her body seemingly unable to regulate its temperature. Kara could see the distress in Lena's eyes, and her heart ached at just how helpless she was in the situation.

So, she gave in and did the only thing left, Kara waited until her exhausted girlfriend had fallen back asleep before picking up her phone and dialling Alex’s number.

“Hey Kara.” The warm, familial voice already made her feel reassured.

“Alex, Lena’s fever still won’t go down and it’s been hours, and I read on Web MD that that’s really bad and I don’t want her brain to melt or I-“ Kara spilled out into a hopeless ramble before being cut off by a small laugh on the other side of the phone, “Alex- Alex, why are you laughing at me? This is serious.”

“Kara, honey. Lena’s gonna be fine. She probably just has the Flu or something. First of all, don’t ever look on the internet for advice, it’d tell you that you ‘likely need brain surgery’ for a simple headache.” Alex explained, easing her sister’s worries, “But if her fever won’t break then she probably needs a stronger medicine, do you want me to come round and drop one off?”

The blonde felt her nerves relax a little, “That’d be amazing, thank you.”

About an hour or so later, Alex arrived at the apartment holding two small white carrier bags. Kara opened the door for her and welcomed her in with a hug with was warmly returned before the pair put the bags on the table.

“There’s some medicine in here and some of those gel patches things which go on your forehead, that should help a little.” She explained before handing the other bag to Kara, “I bought some soup as well from the place you both like, it just needs reheating. There's potstickers in there for you too because I’m guessing you haven’t eaten today.”

Kara’s eyes lit up at the mention potstickers, “Oh my god, Alex you’re amazing.” She excitedly blurted before going over to the microwave to reheat the soup, she could’ve used her heat vision but the last thing she wanted to do was make it to hot and burn her poor girlfriend.

As Kara waited for the soup, Alex went to go check up on Lena in the other room.

“Hey you,” Alex kept her voice soft, being mindful of the headache she probably had as she came to sit on the edge of the bed where she was laid, “Kara said you’re not feeling well, how are you feeling?”

“Shitty.”

Alex laughed at her stark response, “Yeah I can see that, I brought some stuff round for you, Kara’s just reheating the soup.” 

Lena managed a weak smile at Alex's presence. "Thanks Alex, I feel terrible, but Kara's taking good care of me, but she did ask me earlier if I felt ‘like your brain is going to drip out’ so I think this is a new leap for her.”

Alex shook her head as she tried to hide her smile, “Yeah that sounds like her. But as far I can see your brains haven’t leaked out all over the pillows, so I think you’ll be okay.” She said, ignoring Lena’s protests when she began cleaning up the mess of crumpled tissues and cough-drop wrappers littering the bed, “We just need to get your fever settled.” 

As if on cue, Kara came in with a small tray, Lena’s soup and the medicine sat neatly on it. “Alex brought some supplies.” She said, shooting her sister an appreciative look, “Can you sit up for me darling?” Kara asked as she came to sit beside Lena, settling the tray on her knees.

Lena mustered a small smile, touched by Kara's caring nature. She took a spoonful of soup and slowly sipped it, feeling the warmth spread through her body. "This is so good.” She murmured softly before sipping another spoonful, “Thanks you two, really, I’ve never been treated like this before.”

Alex gave her a reassuring smile. "Well, get used to it, because Kara and I are here for you now. We're family, and family takes care of each other."

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munsonsreputation · 1 year

Text

Soon You'll Get Better

Chapter One: Doctor's-Office-Lighting

↢ prologue | series masterlist | chapter two ↣

summary: revelations of max's mental and emotional health come to light when you and steve take her to a check-up. determined to do whatever you can to help her, you and steve work on getting her to open up about her life. max comes to realize that the support is genuine and that she isn't alone, whether if it's about her state of mind or relationship.

word count: [12.2k] kinda proof-read

: ̗̀➛ pairings: big-brother!steve x max & big-sister!reader x max

: ̗̀➛ romantic pairing: steve harrington x fem-college-student!reader

: ̗̀➛ warnings: talks about mental and emotional health, billy's death, self isolation, panic attack, crying, talks about attempted sewerslide (max almost says it, but steve stops her), mentions of breakups, overall a lot of fluff despite the angst.

With the sun beaming down at Hawkins and the skin tickling breeze passing by, it would’ve seemed as though nothing bad had ever happened in this small town, but that would be far from the truth.

Max hadn’t felt the warm enveloping blanket of the sun and the gust of wind against her skin in days. Instead, she spent the dwindling hours of summer locked in the trailer, watching the same VHS tape on repeat like background noise while she paced back and forth cleaning up the pile of messes and lost in her own thoughts.

The only time the depths of misery in her mind paused was when the telephone rang. She would stare at, contemplating on answering, but just being too drained to even reach it or utter a single world. Her best friend El, leaving countless of voicemails asking when she would like to hangout next or simply if she was ok.

She didn’t like worrying El. It wasn’t her fault that she was feeling like this. At the end of the day, it was no one’s fault. But shutting people out just seemed to be her default way of dealing with everything, especially something like this.

“Max, honey,” A few more knocks tapped on her door. For once her mother was home, but spent the day figuring out payments with the bank and handling a bunch of adult shit that she was too far to care about.

The young girl sighed, kicking off her blankets, and staring up at the ceiling. One. Two. Three seconds before she mustered the energy to get up and open the door. “What’s up?”

Her mom looked over behind her shoulder, then back at her daughter, “Your friend El is here. She’s worried about you.”

Max brushed past her mom, heading straight down the narrow hallway of the trailer until she saw her best friend along with Steve and you, his girlfriend, on either side of her.

“Hey—” She couldn’t even get the whole greeting out before El had stepped forward and bound her arms securely around her best friend, a sigh of happiness leaving her mouth.

Slowly, Max hugged her back, not knowing that El was this concerned about her and if she had known that her best friend was going to show up unannounced like this, she would have picked up the last seven calls she had missed.

“Why haven’t you picked up my calls?” El wondered, pulling away and observing the features on Max’s face that seemed to have dulled.

The apparent bags under her eyes, a tell-tale sign that Max had not been getting enough sleep and was fatigued.

“Busy doing chores, I’m sorry, El.” Max felt terrible, she didn’t mean to treat her friend like this, let alone make her worry so much, but El just gave her a reassuring smile and shook her head mouthing, “It’s ok.”

“Did you ask them to drive you here?” She looked at you and Steve as you two nodded, him stepping forward first to give her a hug.

Max didn’t share many hugs with Steve, but today she granted him one knowing he took the time out of his day to drive here, “She was worried, which then made us worry, so we wanted to come here to make sure you were alright.”

When he pulled away, he took notice of the way Max forced a laugh just as quickly as it died in her throat when you stepped forward and hugged her strongly.

“Are you doing ok, sweetheart?” You inquired softly against her hair, and she only replied with a “yes,” before you had nodded and pulled away, not wanting to poke and prode.

It wasn’t long before her mother came back into view, resting a hand on Max’s shoulder and smiling at you three. You could tell she was worn out, the same way Max was. But the only difference was that her mother was good at trying to hide it. Meanwhile Max tried to, but the discomfort on her face said it all.

“I actually wanted to ask a favor from you two if that’s ok?”

Max glanced behind at her mom, raising a brow, but she squeezed her shoulder warmly, “Max, why don’t you invite El in for a little bit? I just need a word with these two, ok?”

She wanted to ask why, but not wanting to make the situation sticky, she grabbed onto El’s hand and led her inside of the trailer and towards her room where they could catch up in private.

Her mom stepped outside, closing the door behind her and smiling at you two, “I just hope this isn’t too much to ask, but, Max actually has a check up tomorrow morning, but I can’t take her because I’ll be working.”

You and Steve’s eyes caught the way her fingers fidgeted against one another, a distinct perception of stress and anxiety, just because of her asking for the favor.

“We could totally take her!” You chirped, taking away the embarrassment she had felt for asking such a favor from some teens.

Steve nodded, wrapping his arms over your shoulder and pulling your side into him, “Yeah, the two of us are both off, so it should be no problem.”

Her mom shifted eye contact between you both, “Are you sure it ok? The appointment is at nine, but I could reschedule it if that’s too early.”

You shook your head, looking over at Steve with a smile, “We’re usually up before then, so nine is perfect.”

When you looked back at her, she was more than relieved, placing a hand over her heart gratefully.

“Thank you! I would send Max there herself, but they need someone over eighteen to be with her in case, and I know she really trusts you two the most.”

Max wasn’t always particularly close to you and Steve, but as she had caught more rides from you both, she had warmed up to you two out of all the older teens.

“We’d be happy to take her. Do you have the address by any chance?” Steve sought before Max’s mom nodded, gesturing back inside the trailer.

“I’ll go write it down and I’ll be back out.”

You watched as she hurried back inside, leaving you and Steve there waiting.

“Maybe we could stop by a little cafe and get her some breakfast before we pick her up?” You suggested, leaning your head on his shoulder.

He kissed the top of your head first, “I’ll need a coffee. Do we really look like we’re the type of people to be up by nine in the morning?” Steve half joked with a short laugh.

You snorted, nudging him softly. “I didn’t want to make her feel bad…if this is the least we can do to help them, we can sacrifice a few hours of sleep.”

“I know, I know, you’re right.” He apologized, resting his chin on top of your head while they waited around for a couple of minutes before her mom and the two girls had come emerging from the door.

You reached for the small piece of paper with the scribbling of the address written on it with a faded blue ink that was still readable. Steve took it from you when you passed it to him, placing it in his jean pocket and creating a mental note to not forget it was there.

“Do you think I can stay for dinner?” El requested kindly towards you two, who were just offered to stay a little longer by Max’s mom.

Steve hummed, checking the time on his watch, but sadly shaking his head when he saw the time, “Sorry, El, we promised Hop we’d have you home by five remember?”

She pouted nevertheless, but smiled when Max hugged her and told her that it was ok.

“Maybe tomorrow you can head over to Will and El’s after your appointment?” Her mom suggested, “But you’ll have to ask her and Steve for a ride since they’re taking you tomorrow.”

The redhead grumbled, pulling away from her friend and looking at her mom begrudgingly, “Can’t we reschedule?”

Her mom shook her head, taking a deep breath. “You’ll need to go, Maxine. My insurance plan finally is in effect and it’s covering all our medical expenses, thank god.”

“Fine.” She puffed, crossing her arms over her chest a clear sign that she did in fact not want to step foot into any doctor’s office whatsoever.

“C’mon, hon, let’s get you back home before your dad freaks.” You smiled delicately, reaching a hand out for El who took it, and stood by your side.

Steve pointed at Max, a small smile on his face, “We’ll see you tomorrow morning, alright?”

Max just nodded, forcing a smile as she watched the three of you get into the car with El in the backseat, waving goodbye to her best friend as they drove off into the late afternoon.

“Maxine, I know you’re upset.” Her mother spoke apologetically, resting a hand on the small of her daughter’s back, guiding her back into their home.

She moved away from her mother’s hand, settling onto the couch to bring her knees up to her chest, “I just don’t understand why you can’t take me? Can’t you just go to work late?” she argued.

Her mom sighed heavily, grabbing dishes from the small cabinet and placing them down on the even smaller corner table of the trailer, “Honey, we’ve been through this a million times.”

Max rolled her eyes, the script she had memorized time and time again flowing out of her mouth before her mom had anytime to beat her to it, “Going in late means missing hours which means less money, which means no food, no electricity, no money, no rent, no home.”

Her mother took a deep breath in and out, approaching Max and kneeling at her side. “I’m sorry, Max. You know I have to do this for you.”

“Yeah, I know, it’s whatever.” Max brushed off, resting a heavy head on her kneecaps with an unsatisfied frown.

With the windows rolled down, El relaxed in the soft leather seats of Steve’s BMW. The only sounds were the soft hum of the icy cold air conditioning cooling the hot air and whatever that was on the radio playing faintly.

“You ok back there?” Steve said, looking into the rear-view mirror catching the sight of the young girl who wrenched her shoulders.

You turned back and gave her a one over. The pout was still on her face and now her arms crossed like Max had hers a few minutes ago, “What’s the matter, hon?”

“Max….she is sad.” She told you two obviously.

Steve pursed his lips, glancing quickly behind at her, “Did she tell you that?”

She shook her head, but spoke, “I know she is. When I asked if she was ok, she didn’t answer.”

“I’m sure she just wants some time to herself,” you assured her. “Her and her mom are still trying to adjust to life without Billy and his dad around.”

It had been a little over a year since the battle at Star Court where Billy had sacrificed himself to the mind-flayer in order to save Eleven’s life. You and Steve could still recall the memory vividly. How you two watched from the second story of the mall where you two had been throwing fireworks alongside Lucas and Max in order to deter the monster.

Yet it all happened so quickly, Billy putting himself in between El and the mind-flayer, before getting brutally wounded by the creature and the blood oozing through his white wife-beater and splattering in the air.

Max couldn’t believe her eyes, dashing down the stalled escalator stairs and dropping to her knees beside her slain brother. His eyes blanking out and only a few words escaping his mouth before he had died. She was in shambles, shaking him, screaming at him to wake up, but he had accepted his fate.

You and Steve had rushed down the same steps, nearing the two girls who had been weeping. El had pulled Max into arms, letting her cry there, and shielding her eyes from her brother who was bleeding out in front of them.

“I’ve got Max.” Steve declared, running up to the girls and guiding Max out of Eleven’s hold and into his arms where he led her outside of the mall.

El had immediately sprung to you, crying into your shoulder as you walked the two of you behind Steve and Max as the sirens resounded through the air.

Ambulances, firetrucks, and military vehicles overflowed the mall parking lot as they all hastily assessed the well-beings of the children first.

Hopper had found El in the back of an ambulance, the scar on her forehead being dealt with before he embraced her in a tight hug.

Nancy wrapped a blanket across the shoulders of her brother Mike, rubbing her hands and down his shoulders to create warmth.

Lucas and Erica ran to their parents as soon as they saw them stopped at the bright yellow caution tape, baring them off from seeing their kids.

She watched as everyone reunited with their family while she had no one waiting for her. But you and Steve, stuck by her side in the back of the ambulance, letting her rest her head on Steve’s shoulder while you soothed her.

Steve shook his head at the horrible remembrance, thankful that the worst was over and finally everyone in Hawkins could live in peace away from all that supernatural shit. He had you and his friends, something he was grateful for, but a part of him still felt the heaviness of it all, especially for the young girl Max who never seemed to fully recover from the year ago attack.

“I’ll tell you what,” Steve started, catching El’s eyes in the rearview again, “If she’s up for it, we’ll swing by tomorrow and take you guys to the arcade.”

El erupted at that, smiling broadly with an excited nod which made you laugh, hopeful that Max would feel a little better and would want to have some fun with her best friend that missed her greatly.

The next morning, Max was out of bed earlier than usual not wanting you two to wait around for her if you two were to show up earlier. She had gotten dressed in her usual baggy jeans, a stripped t-shirt and Billy’s oversized jean jacket to go over it.

A note hanging on the refrigerator read, “Have a good day, Max…Mom loves you, always!” She left it hanging there, switching on the TV while she waited.

When a soft knock followed by her name, came against the door, she knew you two had arrived. The clock on the stove read 7:15 just a few minutes early. She promptly grabbed her keys and her walkman, hooking it onto her jeans and opening the door.

“Morning sunshine.” You radiated against the morning sunlight, holding out a small cup of hot cocoa and a breakfast sandwich for her.

She actually smiled a little, locking the door before taking the items from you as you both walked the short distance to the car where Steve had been waiting in the driver’s seat.

“Hey Max, the cocoa good?” Steve turned, watching the young girl open the door as she took a sip of her drink.

She hummed warmly, and you shut her door before getting into the passenger, “I told him you were more of a latte type but he supposes that sixteen-year-olds shouldn’t be drinking coffee.”

Steve rolled his eyes, picking up his now empty cup of black coffee, and shaking it side to side, “Kids shouldn’t be drinking this shit.”

“So you’re calling yourself old?” Max proposed, opening up her bacon, egg, and cheese taking a bite.

“I think he is.” You tormented, jabbing at Steve’s side while he fussed and Max snorted quietly at the scene.

You and Steve looked so happy—not only as a couple, but just as humans.

For the most part, you all had gone through the same things last summer—except you and Steve were locked in the Russian base while Max and the others dealt with the mind-flayer stuff. Nevertheless, the anguish and memories of what had happened all remained the same throughout their group of friends, yet everyone else seemed to get over the hump of what happened.

Everyone except her.

She wanted to be happy again. Happy with herself. With her friends. With her boyfriend. With life. But everything just seemed as though it wouldn’t pass.

The sadness, the guilt, the nightmares would never be something she would be able to escape.

As you drove to the doctor’s office, you tried to make small talk with Max, asking her about what she had been up to lately. She gave short, one-word answers, and you could tell that she was still feeling down just like yesterday. Steve remembered what El had told them about Max being unhappy and decided to try to see if he could get her to open up.

“Max, is everything okay?” Steve finally asked, breaking the silence that passed after a couple of minutes.

Max shrugged, staring out the window of passing buildings and slower cars, “Just tired, I guess.”

You exchanged a worried peek with Steve, but didn’t push her to talk. It would only make her more uncomfortable and irritable, something you both wanted to avoid.

The doctor’s office was a small clinic a little further into town, nevertheless you three were on time, avoiding the morning bustle of traffic on this Friday. Steve greeted the woman at the front desk, checking Max in while she helped you fill out the necessary forms.

“Maxine Mayfield?” A nurse called out as she walked into the waiting room.

You patted Max on the shoulder, giving her an encouraging smile. “Just call out if you need us, ok?”

“I will.” She assured you, following the nurse into the exam room.

The appointment wasn’t anything special, just a yearly exam to make sure everything was going smoothly with Max’s health. They checked her ears, eyes, reflexes, and asked her a few questions.

“One last thing,” the nurse smiled, putting down her stethoscope and grabbing the clipboard and pen resting on the counter, “This is just a short questionnaire I need you to fill out. I’ll leave the room and give you a few minutes ok?”

Max nodded, grabbing the clip board and begun filling out the form. Reading the questions in her head and thinking for a few seconds before appropriately determine where she fell in each of the boxes. After ten minutes, the nurse came back, collecting the form and allowing her to head back into the waiting room while the doctor reviewed the report.

Steve sat up when he saw her emerge from the doors. He recognized the jean jacket to be Billy’s, practically too big and swallowing Max up whole. “How was it?”

Her pointer and middle finger gestured to her eyes then back at him, “I still have 20/20 vision and impeccable hearing.”

“That’s what we like to hear.” You grinned, patting a chair between you and Steve so she could sit awhile until she’d be seen by the doctors and discharged.

The waiting room was quiet. Just the small talk of the receptionists and replay of I Love Lucy playing through the TV filled the comfy space. You conversed with her for a short while, talking about the Kate Bush tape she had in her walkman. She let you have a listen to her favorite track, “Running Up That Hill,” telling you about the meaning of the song before her name was called, prompting you to take off the headphones.

“Guardians of Maxine Mayfield?” The doctor wore the typical white coat with a stethoscope cloaked over her neck and a clipboard in hand with Max’s files.

“Here.” Steve stood up, and the doctor smiled, nodding her head gesturing for you and Max to come along into her office.

“Are you her brother?” She called for, holding the door open to a small room.

Steve looked at Max unsure of how she wanted him to answer that, and the redhead shrugged, “Something like that.”

The doctor chuckled, offering you three a seat in front of her desk. Max sat in the middle with you and Steve on either side of her.

She glanced through the documents once more, and nodded to herself before looking at you two, “Everything seems to be looking good with her physical health. She did great on the vision exam and even better on the hearing test.”

Max smirked, nudging both you and Steve with her elbow. “Told you so.”

The doctor looked over the last page of the clipboard, the questionnaire that Max had filled out moments ago, all indicating worry, “But we do have an area of concern when it comes to her mental and emotional wellbeing.”

Max could feel the space suddenly become thicker, all eyes shifting towards her and the painful quietness lingering as you all expected her to say something, but she didn’t. She didn’t want to admit that there was something obviously going on in her life that she had been hiding, but now was eating her alive.

Steve coughed, tearing his eyes away from a very uncomfortable Max and looking at the professional, “W-what’s the matter?”

She pulled off one of the pages, and slid it towards him, “On a scale of zero to five, five being everyday, have you been feeling down, depressed, irritable or hopeless? She checked off five.”

You gulped, looking at Max who now seemed to be burying her head in her shoulder, looking towards the door closest to Steve.

“Max, do you want to talk about it?”

She shook her head, her shoulders sulking deeper, “It’s nothing. Everyone feels like that sometimes. It passes. Normal teenage shit.”

“Hey,” Steve pointed, shaking his head at the explicative, “language.”

The doctor shook her head, understandingly, “No, it’s okay. Max, these feelings your having isn’t normal. I know it may seem like it, but if you’re constantly feeling bad about yourself everyday, then it may be a bigger issue.”

She reached for a pamphlet in her desk drawer, gliding it towards Max who finally peered at it. A girl crying in bed on the front page, with some sort of statistic in bold font above.

“Most teenage girls your age are more likely to develop depression and anxiety, especially if there are contributing factors like bullying, isolation, a rocky home life—”

Max snapped her head, suddently triggered and fed up with the conversation, “Nothing is wrong with me!”

Your eyes enlarged, attempting to soothe her with a touch of your hand on hers, “Max, hey, c’mon—”

She recoiled, retreating from your hand, “No!” she shouted, standing up, directing her anger towards the doctor in front of her who didn’t take the outburst personally, knowing there had to be an underlying issue.

“You don’t know what I’m feeling. You don’t know my life. You don’t know a damn thing about me or my family.”

With that, her feet thudded against the floors, tearing the doctor’s office door open and hurling it shut. She didn’t care about the stares she got from the other patients in the waiting room and the receptionists calling out for her—she wanted one thing and it was to get the hell out of that place.

You and Steve had never witnessed a frenzy like this from Max. It was out of character for her to take help defensively. She obviously had her guard up for a reason, but you two had no clue what it was about.

Steve only glanced at you once, before he was following behind her. “I’ll check on her.” You nodded, remaining in your seat as you shot the doctor an apologetic look that she lifted.

“I want Max to know that I’m here to help, not to judge her. Her answers to the questionnaire is extremely concerning. Do you maybe have any clue as to what might be causing these feelings?” She asked you and your thoughts for a moment, shrugging your shoulders.

“I mean,” you gulped, “s-she lost her brother over a year ago, but she hasn’t really opened up about it too much to know.”

The doctor nodded, reaching for another pamphlet and passing it to you, “That could be it. Especially for girls her age, it can be hard to talk about what they’re feeling. All of these emotions she’s been dealing with could be starting to build up and bubble over.”

You took a deep breath, nodding, trying to process what had just happened and what were the next steps to helping Max. Telling her mom would probably make her more upset, yet you didn’t know if it was right for you and Steve to keep it a secret.

Steve raced out the clinic doors before it could close shut and Max was even faster darting towards his car, tugging on the door to try to hide away in the backseat, as if she wasn’t going home with either of them seeing her breakdown.

“Max! Stop!” Steve pursued, clutching her shoulder tenderly, to try to get her to look back at him.

Through the reflection of the glass window he could see her scrunched face, reddening cheeks with tears pushing past the brink of her eyelids where they tumbled down. Her chest heaved up and down heavily as her fingertips tightened around the door handle, still trying to tug it open.

“O-open the door, Steve.” She choked, pushing her shoulders back to try to get his touch off of her, which he complied with, dropping his hands from her shoulder, but never opening the car doors.

He sighed, moving beside her, stooping down a bit to look at her.

“I’m not opening the door until you talk.”

She shook her head, fingers wiping her cheeks when she finally met his eyes that were full of concern, “T-talk about what! How f-fucked up my life is? Is that what you wanna hear?”

Steve swallowed thickly, shaking his head with immediate regret. That wasn’t what he wanted. For her to think he pitied her or wanted to force her to open up. He just wanted to be let in, to know why she was feeling like this and why she hadn’t asked for help sooner.

Her eyes kept on him, the tears never stopping their journey down her cheeks. Her jaw trembling as she started to speak once more.

“God, Steve, I mean, isn’t it obvious that my life is total s-shit? I don’t need a doctor to tell me that I’m fucking sad! I already know that! She doesn’t think that I already know that I’ve contemplated to—”

He didn’t let her finish her sentence, “Hey, hey, c’mon,” smoothly guiding her head to his chest where she ultimately ceased talking and open mouth sobs left her instead. She let herself fall into Steve’s hold, her finger tips falling from the car door and instead clinging around Steve like an anchor, which would be the only thing to keep her from floating away.

Her sobs grew louder by the second, every single suppressed emotion she had been bottling up inside of her finally overflowing into tears that now drenched Steve’s polo. But Steve didn’t mind at all, holding her tighter as he closed his eyes tightly and begun whispering soft words of reassurance to her.

As you tightly held onto the pamphlets the doctor had given you; you pushed open the doors of the clinic, instantly met with the scene of Max in Steve’s arms. Your heart sank, quickening the pace of your footsteps as you shoved the papers into the back pocket of your jeans.

When Steve had finally opened his eyes, with his arms still engulfed around the young girl he held, he saw you, face full of concern as he mouthed, “she’s not ok.”

You winced, nodding your head, still calmly approaching as you placed a loving hand on her shoulder. “Hey, I’m here.”

She slowly retracted her face from Steve’s chest to look at you. Her features were twisted in heartache—brows furrowed and the tears streaming down her face, leaving a trail of wetness in their wake. Her lips quivered as she tried to catch her breath to speak to you, yet she couldn’t.

Instead, she unwrapped herself from Steve, hurrying into your arms where you immediately wrapped your arms around her securely.

“Shhh, I’m right here, sweetheart. It’s gonna be ok, ok?”

You held her close, clinging to her shaking body with each sob she took, rubbing her back gently and offering her the comfort she desperately needed. Steve watched the scene unfold, his own eyes filled with tears and without hesitation, he moved closer to both of you, wrapping his arms around you and Max.

Together, the three of you stood there in silence, holding onto each other as if your lives depended on it. Max continued to cry, but her sobs grew weaker as the moments passed. The only sounds in the car were the occasional sniffle or hiccup as she worked to regain control of her emotions.

When she finally did begin to pull back, Steve immediately let go, as did you, watching her concerningly as she mopped her tears with the back of her hand as she asked, “can we g-go home?”

“Of course.” Steve nodded firmly, finally opening the back door where he let her get in first.

You quickly got into the passenger seat, rummaging through the glove box where extra napkins were kept, and you passed her a few to dry her tears with and she let out a quiet, “thank you.”

The drive home from the doctor’s office was subdued, the only sounds in the car the soft hum of the engine and Max’s occasional sniffle. You and Steve exchanged worried glances, both of you unsure of how to help Max in her current state, but still determined to, nevertheless.

When you three finally pulled into the trailer park, you’d fully expected for Max to wave her goodbye and let that be the end, but instead she invited you inside.

The trailer was clean and tidy, not a single pile of mess could be found in the space, but it was mostly because Max had spent all her days in here trying to use up her time in any way shape or form that didn’t deal with facing anyone.

“Do you want me to make you some lunch?” You offered politely, shrugging off your jacket and slinging it over one of the kitchen chairs.

Max went over to the small sofa into the middle of the living room, shrugging her shoulders as she pulled Billy’s jean jacket over her body like a blanket.

“There’s some crackers and peanut butter in the pantry. That’ll be ok for me.” She said, and you nodded, grabbing a plate and butter knife from the dish rack and heading for the pantry.

Steve sat on the other side of Max, still placid as he wanted to wait for you before talking to Max about the events that just unfolded. After a few minutes, you returned with a plate of crackers and a small dish of peanut butter on the side. You offered it to Max, and she happily took it, beginning to munch down on the snack.

You looked at Steve, his eyes silently telling you whether it was ok for him to speak about everything and you nodded lightly, just enough for him to see.

“Max, uh, do you wanna maybe talk about how you’ve been feeling?” He proposed, resting his elbows on his knees, watching her chew her last bites before she swallowed and shrugged.

She was hesitant to open up. She had never really told anyone at all about how she was really feeling inside. It wasn’t something that she normally talked about…her feelings that is. She thought it was just better to suppress everything, but today was the breaking point and she knew that it was time.

“Sometimes, I feel so lonely,” Max expressed, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know I have you guys a-and my friends, but sometimes it feels like nobody understands what I’m going through.”

The pain she felt. The loss. The sadness. The guilt. That’s what nobody knew she was going through.

Steve reached over and placed a comforting hand on Max’s shoulder. “We may not know exactly what you’re feeling, Max, but we’re here for you. Always.”

Max nodded, her eyes misting over with tears as she felt comfortable to say a little more. “It’s just that...I’ve been feeling so guilty lately,” she continued, her voice trembling. “About Billy’s death. Like it’s my fault somehow.”

Her eyes finally turned to yours, first, ocean blue orbs looked like a flood of waves crashing with the tears beginning to form.

Then her head turned to Steve, blinking where the salty tears leaked again, “I-I just keep picturing his face. The…the blood. E-everything comes back to me and I can’t escape it.”

The words poured out of her in a rush while you and Steve listened attentively. Distress coating both of your gazes as you watched Max’s tears begin to pour quicker, her voice nearly breaking, and her hands shaking as she went on.

“M-maybe if he was here, then I wouldn’t feel this way, but…but I know that I can’t do anything. And I hate it! I hate that I can’t do a-anything about it!”

Steve could see the panic rising in Max’s eyes, and you both knew what was coming. Sure enough, a moment later, Max let out a strangled sob and clutched at her chest, her breathing ragged.

And so Steve quickly got up, stretching towards the kitchen for a glass of cold water while you scooched closer to Max, holding her hands in your palms and soothing your thumbs over her shaky knuckles.

“Hey, take a deep breath for me, Max,” You guided, breathing along with her as she kept her eyes on you and followed your directions.

In and out. Breathe. In and out. Breathe.

The cold condensation from the glass cup dripped on top of your hands where Steve was holding the glass above. Max instantly reached for the cup, gradually gulping down the ice cold water every so often as she continued the breathing routines.

Steve remained standing in front of you two, ready to spring into action if Max needed to be rushed to the hospital or anything like that, but thankfully she began to calm down, handing the cup back to Steve once she had finished it.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered shaking her head, annoyed at herself for not having any control over her emotions that she had to act out like that, “I didn’t mean to freak out like that.”

You and Steve both shook your heads, him moving to take his place back on the couch beside her, “Don’t apologize, Max…sometimes it happens. Nothing wrong with that.”

You nodded in agreement, slinging one of your arms across her shoulder while the other rested on her knee, “We’re here for you, alright? You have nothing to be sorry for.”

Max didn’t know how to react. She wasn’t used to this level of sympathy, or at least not since she was a younger child. Nowadays, her mother didn’t have much time to comfort her like she used to. Instead, she settled for simple phrases like, “It’s just in your head Maxine,” or “You’re just having one of those days, it’ll get better.”

A part of her, missed the comforting talks and hugs that she and her mom used to share, but she knew that it was a part of growing up and getting older.

She wasn’t expecting to be coddled all her life, but it was nice having you and Steve around to make her feel assured. To know that you both were actually here for her and trying your best to understand where she was coming from and all of her feelings rather than brushing it off.

“Thanks for being here.” Max spoke gratefully, reaching either of her hands out around both of your shoulders and pulling you in for a squeeze.

Steve let out a small puff of relieved air from his mouth along with a, “Yep,” while you leaned in and hugged her closer, kissing her temple before pulling away.

“Why don’t we go to the arcade?” Steve suggested, knowing that it would be a good opportunity to get some of the heavier things off of Max’s mind especially after the eventful morning you all had.

You nodded, nudging the young girl slightly. “I’m sure El would like to hang out, right?”

She sniffled, nodding her head as she sat back against the cushions and your arm, “Yeah, she did tell me she misses me a lot…I miss her too.”

The three of you spent a few more minutes on the couch, just sitting and talking about what games she wanted to play at the arcade after not being there for a couple of days. After Max finally settled completely, she called El and invited her to the arcade, even Will, but he was busy working on a new painting but offered to come next time around.

The car was now filled with music as the four of you drove to the arcade. Steve seemed to sneak more glances at the backseat through the rear-view mirror. A smile on his face as he saw Max loosening up with the presence of her best friend while they softly sung to the radio and talked amongst themselves.

Once you finally arrived at the arcade, Max seemed to feel a lot better already, laughing and screeching excitedly as she and El played their favorite games while you and Steve stood off to the side in order to give them some space.

“Max looks like she’s having fun.” You nudged Steve playfully, watching the way his face lit up, knowing his idea was so far working.

He grinned sneaking his arms around your waist to pull you closer.

“She deserves to have some fun. She’s been through a lot today…and god knows for how long.” he sighed sadly, resting his head on top of yours.

You understood how Steve felt—if only you two had known what was going on with Max sooner, maybe then you’d both would be able to help her earlier. Yet you knew there was no use in regretting the past but just hopeful for what was to come.

“C’mon, I think I want that pink unicorn.” You dragged him towards the claw machine on the other side of the arcade, still in view of the girls to keep an eye on them.

Max and El continued to compete the high score on Pac-Mac while you and Steve took turns at the claw machine trying to win the fluffy bright pink plush you wanted. After a many tries, Steve was successful, happily presenting you with it and you thanked him with a kiss.

“I think we have a winner!” Steve whistled, strolling behind Max and El with two other plushes in his hand that he had won after a few more attempts.

They turned around, smiling as they each reached for one. El picked the baby elephant and Max got the koala bear. Each of them satisfied with their gifts as they laughed and thanked Steve with smiles.

“We gotta get you girls home.” He announced, looking at his watch for the time, followed by some whines that were quickly eased away by you.

“In a few days we can give you two a ride here again, alright? Steve has work tomorrow and y’know how he is about his sleep.” You smirked, squeezing Steve’s cheeks as he groaned but leaned back into you.

“Oh, we know! Remember that time you fell asleep, and we drew a mustache on you?” El piqued enthusiastically, causing you and Max to laugh out loud.

Steve glared, reminiscing of how he volunteered to host movie night at his place for the kids only for them to grab the markers and begin doodling all over his face. He only realized it the next morning when you popped in with breakfast and couldn’t stop laughing when he greeted you at the door.

“Yeah, yeah, c’mon you twerps.”

El was the first one to get dropped off, already wistful about having to leave her best friend, yet excited for the upcoming plans to come. As you and Steve drove back to the trailer park, Max sat quietly in the backseat, fiddling with her stuffed animal and lost in her thoughts.

Today felt like one of the most relaxing days she had in a long time, despite how the morning had started off. It was nice being able to be consoled and not having to feel like her feelings were such a bad thing. She wanted this feeling to last, but she knew today would eventually come to an end.

When Steve finally pulled up in front of her trailer, her mom’s car was already parked in the grassy space, indicating she was home from a long day of work.

He turned around to face her, watching her unbuckle her seatbelt, “We had a great time, Max.”

Max gave him a smile in return, wiggling the plush he had won her today, “Thanks for taking me…it means a lot.” she said quietly.

“Of course, sweetheart,” you said kindly, maneuvering in your chair to face her as well, “We’re always here for you.”

For her. Always there for her. You two.

The words itself were like a warm embrace to Max’s cold soul that filled her with comfort and security. Just like the hug that you three shared earlier in the day in the doctor’s office parking lot. You two had no idea how much that hug meant to her. How nice and safe it was to feel like she was protected, to feel like she was heard and listened to instead of interrogated and shunned.

Max nodded, her eyes filling with tears. “I know,” she said, her voice breaking. “And I appreciate it so much. Especially with everything that’s been going on lately.”

You and Steve exchanged another set of concerned looks that was familiar from this morning, but you two knew you wanted to do everything you could to support Max through what she was going through.

“Max, we’re here for you no matter what,” Steve said firmly. “You can call us anytime if you need to talk or help with anything, alright?”

Max nodded, sniffling as she wiped her tears away, pushing a smile onto her face, “Thank you,” she said softly. “And thank you for taking me to my appointment. It means a lot.”

Steve smiled reassuringly. “Of course, Max. We’re happy to help.”

As she gathered the rest of her belonging, ready to exit the car and call it a day, she turned back to you and Steve, “Can we do this again soon?” she asked hopefully, her voice filled with need. “I had a lot of fun today.”

You and Steve grinned, nodding your heads as Steve reached out to ruffle her hair, making her laugh freely.

“Absolutely, I’ll give you a call tomorrow and let you know when Steve is off next.” You told her, and she beamed with excitement as she got of the car.

“Thanks…I’ll see you guys soon!” she said, closing the door behind her as she got out.

She waited there to watch you both drive off, waving goodbye as you and Steve watched her in the rearview until she was out of sight into the afternoon sunset.

The car ride was quiet, the both of you not wanting to spark up the conversation around Max’s mental health. You two would never truly be able to understand what she was going through, but there seemed to be a silent agreement that the both of you were going to be there for Max every step of the way.

It wasn’t the fact that Steve didn’t like working at Family Video—He got to work with one of his best friends, Robin. He got first dibs on new tapes for date night. He didn’t have to do much beside stock shelves, count inventory, and work the register.

But the pay wasn’t much, and the days were slow…sometimes too slow, like today.

Barely any new customers came in to rent some tapes and the old ones had yet to return their way over due tapes, something Robin would take care of with a phone call. He just needed to stick around for a few more weeks until he’d hopefully get promoted now that Keith was leaving his position as manager and he would get a little more money.

The money, of course, was going to a good cause: getting to move in with you and helping you with rent.

Though you never asked Steve or made him promise to help you with rent once you got your own apartment after graduation, but he just wanted to be considerate. He knew it wasn’t easy being a college student and adding on working a part-time job, so he wanted to do all he could to help you out if he was going to move in with you.

“Harrington!” Steve exhaled thickly, the chime of the front doors ringing followed by the voices of the teenage boys who loved badgering him on the job.

He turned around, being greeted by Dustin, Will, Lucas, and Mike, “Hey shitheads.” He joked, followed by a snort that came from Robin in the aisle over.

Mike and Will ignored the repartee, heading off into the horror section to see what new tapes were available, while the other two boys followed Steve as he headed towards the front desk to check off some of the inventory lists.

“You took Max and El to the arcade yesterday?” Dustin queried, watching Steve nod as he worked the pen.

He glanced up at the boy and shrugged, “They wanted to spend some girl time together…are you jealous you weren’t invited?”

Dustin rolled his eyes, shaking his head, “Never, it’s just that Eddie said he saw you and your girlfriend pick up Max early in the morning.”

Eddie Munson lived right across from Max’s trailer with his uncle Wayne. The two were never particularly close, but after Dustin started hanging around the dude and joined his DnD club, it was kinda inevitable that they’d become somewhat friends through the kid.

“Yeah,” Steve bowed his head, placing down the clipboard and resting his elbow on the desk, “We had to take Max to take care of a few things…have you spoken to her recently?”

He looked towards Lucas, her boyfriend, hoping to hear that Max was doing better, but instead, the young boy seemed to tense up at the question, shuffling from foot to foot.

“W-we actually broke up a few weeks ago and I haven’t heard from or seen her since. I think she’s avoiding me.” Lucas confessed quietly as Steve’s eyes widened at the announcement.

Dustin elbowed Lucas pointedly. “Dude, you didn’t tell him!?”

For a while, everyone knew about Max and Lucas’ split. Everyone except for you and Steve who were too busy to be probing into the lives of the kids they occasionally babysat. But in hindsight, it seemed to all make sense. Steve hadn’t seen the whole group of kids together at once for a while—Max was always missing. And Max seemed to only hang out with two other people El and sometimes Will.

Lucas sighed, shaking his head, “No! It’s embarrassing alright…I don’t even know what I did wrong. She just kinda dropped the bomb on me out of nowhere. I-I tried calling, but she never picks up.”

Steve’s heart sank, the words coming from Lucas reminding him of how El had phoned him the other day to tell him how concerned she was that Max wasn’t returning any of her calls for a while.

He knew that it might have something to do with what was going on with her emotional and mental wellbeing, but the breakup wasn’t the main thing. Max was strong and independent even before she and Lucas began dating. Steve knew that Max didn’t need a boyfriend to survive, but he had a feeling that maybe just maybe her emotions had pushed her to break it off with Lucas so suddenly and that was concerning enough for him to excuse himself into the break room to use the phone in there for more privacy.

The phone rung a few times before you finally picked up, “Hey, baby,” Steve said breathlessly when you answered.

“Stevie! How’s work?” You requested, closing the textbook you were studying and giving your boyfriend your undivided attention for a few minutes.

“Slow as per usual. The boys actually dropped in.” He told you, and you hummed, guessing they were probably causing some trouble that Steve needed to get away from.

“Yeah? Have they been poking fun at your vest?”

He chuckled, looking down at the pin you got made that said, “Best Salesmen” followed by his name, “No, no, actually it’s about Max.”

You furrowed your brows, sitting up in your desk chair as you listened more for the information that Steve was hurling at you.

“I asked Lucas how Max was doing, but he said that she broke it off with him a few weeks ago and he hasn’t been returning any of her calls. Completely out of nowhere.”

“Shit,” you moaned, rubbing your temples as he let out an agreement on the other side of the line.

“Right. And…I don’t know. I know she doesn’t need Lucas, per se. I mean she’s smart, and witty, and cool, but—but, maybe, do you think it has anything to do with what the doctor said?” He proposed, thinking back to the conversation in the doctor’s office.

You thought to yourself, nodding your head and responding, “Possibly, I mean, the doctor did say that isolation is a big thing that she could be doing to avoid talking about her feelings. M-maybe she broke up with Lucas because she felt bad about her feelings and didn’t want him to worry?”

“Yeah, yeah, that could be it,” He rubbed his chin, checking the time on his watch hoping that his lunch break was soon so he could stop by Max’s trailer to see if she was ok and was coping with the breakup alright.

But still, his break wasn’t until another hour, and the worry was eating him up alive, “Do—”

“I can go and pick up some of her favorite things and go check up on her?” You offered before he could ask, and a sigh of comfort left his mouth.

“Please…and let me know how she’s doing?” He asked almost desperately, as he heard you putting your highlighters and pens away.

“Of course, baby, I’ll call you when I get back.” You told him, gathering your keys that were a short distance from the phone before getting ready to hang up.

“Sounds good…OH! And maybe you could get her the Hershey’s bars with the almonds inside? I know she likes those.”

He remembered the movie night a few months ago, the same one where they all drew on his face. Max had gone straight for the candy bar, monopolizing it to herself and only giving pieces of it to El and a few to Steve, since he was the one who bought it.

You laughed, making a mental note and adding it to the list of things you were already planning to get Max in order to cheer her up, “Got it, babe! I’ll head out now. I love you.”

“I love you, too.” He replied, hearing you smack your lips giving him a telephone kiss as he chuckled and did the same before hanging up first and getting back to work. He had hope that the more he worked the more time would pass and he would hear back from you with good news.

The grocery store had all you needed for the pick-me-ups that Max would surely like. The chocolate almond bar that Steve told you to get, a few more bags of candy, some tissues, and a small bouquet of flowers for the extra touch.

You stood there in front of the trailer, tapping gingerly and calling out her name a few times before you could hear the footsteps from inside coming closer until the doorknob twisted and there was Max dressed in an oversized t-shirt with her hair in a messy bun. Your smile faltered slightly when you remembered why you were here in the first place.

“Hey,” she greeted, opening the door wider when she saw it was you. Furrowing her brows with the items in your hand, you smiled apologetically, handing her the flowers first.

“Hey Max. I brought some stuff to cheer you up,” you said watching her take the florals and look at you confused, “I’m so sorry if this is awkward, but Lucas told Steve about the breakup and he told me, and we just wanted to make sure you’re okay.”

Max’s expression softened, stepping aside to let you in, “It’s okay, you don’t have to apologize…this is actually really sweet.”

You smiled weakly, walking into her trailer and feeling relieved that she wasn’t upset. “No, yeah, we just wanted to make sure you’re doing alright since we had no idea about it.”

The two of you sat down on the couch, and you watched as she grinned when you gave her the rest of the treats. The chocolate bar being immediately ripped open as she broke off a piece and offered it to you first, which you accepted before she began indulging in it.

You chewed on the sweet treat, swallowed before you spoke, “So, uh, Steve and I were just wonder…did Lucas do something to hurt you? Or is it just that you’re not interested anymore?”

Max felt the knot in her stomach, sighing as this would be the first time she was explaining it to anyone. Even when Lucas asked why and even El, she simply brushed them off and told them it was normal or nothing.

“It’s not that. I still love and care about Lucas, but I just…just don’t think that a relationship is good for me right now. I’m not in the right mindset, y’know?”

You nodded, understanding where she was coming from and it all washed over you, “Yeah, I totally get it. And I’m sorry again if we were prying or anything. Just want you to know me and Steve are here for you, through anything and everything.”

The young girl smiled, feeling grateful for the kindness and time you took out of your day to come in and check on her when you could’ve simply picked up the phone and called. The effort mattered, and she was appreciative of that.

“Hey…and if Lucas loves you, he’ll understand and be patient,” you added, smiling softly and resting a hand on her knee, “take all the time you need, and when you’re ready, you two can work things out.”

She didn’t bother speaking a word to you. Her smile and arms that she wrapped around you were enough for her to express that she was thankful for everything you and Steve had done in the past three days.

“Do you think I could spend the night at yours? Girls’ night with me and El, if you’re not busy or working tomorrow?” She sought, pulling away from you as you smiled and nodded.

It was a Friday and thankfully you didn’t have much work to get done for school and you didn’t pick up a shift at the general store until next week so you were practically free, “Sure, but just in case can you call your mom and make sure it’s alright with her?”

She nodded, getting up for the phone before she turned to you, “There’s some lemonade in the fridge that I made this morning. Eddie’s uncle gave us a whole bag last night…apparently some guy at his plant has a huge lemon tree.”

You snorted, nodding your head as you got up, heading for the kitchen and pouring yourself a refreshingly sour glass of lemonade while Max called her mom’s working place to get through and ask if it was alright to spend the night at yours.

Once she got the green light from her mom and calling El to invite her, she headed for her room, packing some of her things that she would need while she was at yours, along with some cassettes that she wanted to show to you and El. You washed up your glass, tidying up a bit before you used the phone to call Steve and let him know that everything was ok and that Max and El would be staying with you for the night.

She shut her bedroom door, walking out with her duffle bag slung over her shoulder, “I’m ready,” she announced to you as you smiled, still holding the phone to your ear.

Steve was concerned about Max and asked if he could speak to her over the phone to check up on her, “It’s Steve. He wants to talk to you if that’s ok?” You asked her, and she agreed, dropping her bag down on the sofa and accepting the phone you held out for her.

You could hear Steve talking her ear off the moment he knew that she was now on the phone with him. Max kept humming out “mhm’s” and “yes’s” nodding her head along with whatever Steve was telling her.

“You made a really brave and good decision, Max.” Steve spoke, his voice soothing, “Putting yourself isn’t a bad thing and if anything I’m so proud of you for doing it. If Lucas can’t see what an amazing girl you are it’s his loss at the end of the day. Take some time for yourself and when you’re ready, maybe you both will find your way back together.”

God, he felt like such a dad right now, but he said all the right words, the ones that Max needed to hear.

Her cheeks rose with a smile on her face as she thanked him, grateful for his support.

“Thanks, Steve. It’s just hard, you know? I still care about Lucas so much, but I just don’t feel like I can be in a relationship right now.”

“I get it,” Steve responded. “But I want you to know that you’re smart and don’t need a boyfriend behind you. You’re good enough on your own right now, and when you’re ready, you’ll find someone who deserves you.”

Max felt a sense of comfort wash over her. Sure maybe all the teens, including herself would make fun of Steve of being such a dad with all his lecture and advice, but he had this special knack for knowing how making people feel better, even in the toughest times and today it was no different with her situation.

“T-thanks, Steve. That means a lot,” Max’s voice cracked, feeling her eyes start to well up with tears out of nowhere.

You moved beside her, hoisting an arm around her shoulder, and you pulled her into a side hug, and brushed the tears off her cheeks with your thumbs. You knew she was massively touched by everything you and Steve were doing for her, and it was heartwarming to see her so vulnerable when it came to you two.

“Hey, don’t cry,” you could hear Steve say through the speaker, his voice gentle. “I know this is tough, but we’re here for you. Whatever you need, we’ll be here to support you.”

“Thanks, Steve,” Max spoke, smiling up at you as you continued to brush away her tears. “I really appreciate it. I just hope that one day, Lucas and I can patch things up.”

“I’m sure you will, Max,” Steve said, his voice reassuring. “But for now, just focus on taking care of yourself. That’s the most important thing, alright?”

She assured Steve and thanked him once more before he let her go. Yelling out an “I love you” for you before Max placed the phone back down on the receiver. She locked up the place, petting the stray cats outside the porch before she got into your car and you two drove off to pick up El.

Once the three of you were in the car, the party was already started. Madonna blasting through your radio with the windows down as you all shouted out the lyrics and danced in your seats. You decided to stop at the store to pick up a few more things to make it a bit more special. Wandering the aisles, you picked out face masks, microwavable popcorn, and all the other things that would make a sleepover fun.

When you finally arrived at your apartment, the girls couldn’t wait to make themselves at home, springing up the steps until they got to your floor, already hearing you doggie, Ollie, barking from inside.

You smiled, unlocking the door and letting them in first, watching as they dropped their bags and went straight for your pup. Cuddling him in their arms and giggling at his playful antics while you began unloading the bags from the store on the coffee table in the living room.

“Okay, tonight we’re going to have fun, but there’s just one rule!” You announced, dusting your hands off as you plopped onto the couch, watching the girls tilt their head up towards you and nod.

“No boy talk! None at all! Nothing about current boyfriends, ex-boyfriends…I don’t want to hear about your romantic lives and I’m sure you don’t want to hear about mine—no boy talk! Capiche?”

The girls snickered, nodding their heads, as they got up from the floor and decided to join you on the couch, reaching for a bag of chips and opening it to share with each other.

“So, how is college? Is it harder than high school?” Max sought before stuffing her mouth full of the crunch chips.

You breathed, nodding your head wistfully as their faces dropped.

“It’s definitely more rigorous, but it helps to have a routine. I’m getting used to it.”

El sat up, nodding her head in agreement, “Jonathan says that college is tough…he gets sad when Nancy is busy and doesn’t call because of study or exams.”

Jonathan, her half-brother through Joyce, had decided to stay in Hawkins, pursing his career of photography in town by booking some weddings and birthday parties. Nancy headed off for college the same year you did, but she went out of state at a university while you stayed back and decided to attend a community college to save some money first.

“Yeah, but it’s all worth it in the end,” you assured her, patting her shoulder as she went on, with wide eyes.

“I’m so nervous about college,” she pressed her hands on her cheeks as you and Max giggled, “what if I don’t get in?!”

You knew how she felt and it wasn’t too long ago when you were a senior feeling totally lost in the mix of applying for colleges and hoping for an acceptance letter.

“Don’t worry, you have plenty of time to figure it out,” You criss-crossed your legs together and looked between the two girls, “You two are gonna be sophomores in a few weeks and maybe then you’ll figure out what you wanna pursue and that will be something to check off your list.”

They looked a bit more relived yet nervous, realizing that they were in fact entering sophomore in a matter of days. The summer had flown by quickly and a new school year was about to be in session. Freshman year wasn’t too bad considering the fact that the group stayed together, but as time goes on, they knew that new friends would sprout and growing apart was normal.

“Hey…and when your senior year comes, I’ll be there to help you both with college applications and I’ll even read over your essays and make sure they’re ready to go.” You assured them, making them smile broader, no longer fearful about the future, but more so glad that they’d have you to go to for any college advice.

“We’ve got this,” Max smirked, high-fiving her best friend before Ollie had joined in on the excitement, barking cheerfully and running around in circles, making all three of you giggle at his cuteness.

As the day slowly dwindled into night, the three of you had changed into more comfortable clothing: big t-shirts and sweatpants. The couch was now situated with fluffed up pillows and even softer blankets. Your faces now glazed in the clay face masks with a movie playing on the TV and a big bowl of the popcorn being passed around the three of you.

Only the knock on the door made you three tear your eyes away from the TV. Ollie immediately running towards the front door, sniffing then barking. You got up, and Max paused the movie, as the two sat up, watching you open the wooden door first, revealing Steve on the other side of the outer screen door.

“Did someone order half pepperoni and cheese and half pineapple for a girls’ night?” Steve tries his best to deepen his voice as if his own girlfriend and the girls wouldn’t recognize him.

You rolled your eyes, stifling a laugh as you opened the door, to greet him, “You’re such a dork!” you say, giving him a kiss as he chuckles against you making sure his lips don’t touch the mask on your face.

He enters the apartment with the pizza box balanced on his palm, shooting a smile to the girls and Ollie who races in circles around Steve’s feet—the usual Ollie greeting.

The girls get up. El taking the pizza box from him and setting it down on the coffee table while Max picks up the small container of the clay face mask. He looks at them, puzzled, as El begins to speak, “You can stay, but you have to follow the rules!”

You’re highly entertained, listening to their conversation as you locked up the door and headed for the kitchen to grab some plate and napkins.

He huffs, crossing his arms over his chest, “Lay it on me.”

“No boy talk!” El declares firmly with a pointed finger, and he nods. Steve can totally do that.

Max steps closer. “Annnnd you have to put on the face mask,” she says with a mischievous grin.

Despite his protests and even begging for you to back him up, he eventually agrees, letting Max dip her fingers into the goopy product and smear it across his face. El grabbed the extra scrunchie on her wrist, tying back Steve’s hair into a wonky ponytail when he complained about it getting in his hair.

You couldn’t help yourself, jogging into your bedroom to snatch your polaroid off your desk in order to snap a picture of the scene in the living room. Steve sat on the couch with his face scrunched up, while Max laughed and swatted his hands away when he tried to stop her from putting more on. And El in the background giving a thumbs up with a massive smile on her face. The photo was definitely going to be one of your most prized possessions now.

Soon enough, Max’s hands were now free of the clay and all four of you had some pizza while you continued on with the movie before talking to each other about life. Steve was about to say something about Eddie entering the dating scene, but before he could finish, the three of you were shouting and groaning, “No talking about boys!”

Steve laughed, shutting his mouth as he apologized and you all laughed, “Sorry! Sorry. I forgot the rule!”

You smiled, shaking your head as you cuddled into his side, rubbing his arm up and down comfortingly, “We just want a night without talking about guys…I mean it’s pretty stereotypical, but sometimes it’s exhausting talking about boy…no offence, baby.”

Steve chuckled, nodding his head in agreement with your statement, “None taken, doll. And you’re right, boys aren’t the end-all, be-all, of life. All three of you can make it on your own without any man,” he looked down at pouting, “but like, totally, don’t break up with me because I just said that.”

Max groaned, garnering the attention of you both as you looked at her, “This is the only time, I’m breaking the rule,” she pointed at you two as you both nodded, “You and Steve do make a pretty good couple—caring, funny, and surprisingly reliable.”

El piped in, “Don’t forget cute!”

“Oh, and cute!” Max added, as she and El high-fived each other and you and Steve snorted at their amusement.

Steve wrapped his arms around you, holding you close, “Thanks, and now I can say that me and my girl are the cutest couple in Hawkins! You heard it here first!” He announced, making you laugh while the other girls sighed, shaking their heads.

“Oh god, we shouldn’t have said that!”

Soon all your faces are now cleansed and refreshed and the night is slowly simmering down with yawns and sleepy eyes filling the living room. You tidy up the kitchen, washing the dirty plates and cups, as Steve helps you out while the girls get homey in the living room, getting ready for bed.

“Thanks for letting them spend the night here.” Steve murmured from behind you, kissing your neck as you hum and close your eyes, letting him stay them for a moment before you turn your head and kiss his lips.

When you pull away, the two of you are still smiling, before you pat his chest, “C’mon lover boy, you need your sleep remember?”

He nods with a grin, taking your hand and kissing it before the two of you are walking back into the living room, standing in front of the couch where the girls are fluffing up their pillows.

“I’m heading out now, I’ve got a shift in the morning,” He told them as they nodded, getting up and each going in for a hug.

You smiled at the scene, heart-warming up as he wrapped his arms around them and pulled them a little closer, savoring this moment that was so simple yet meaningful to him. And especially for Max who held on a little longer, quietly whispering a “thank you,” before she pulled away and got comfy on the couch.

“Goodnight, Steve.” The girls yawned out tiredly, as they pulled their blankets up over their bodies.

Steve grinned, looking at how comfortable they were already, “Night bugs.”

He opened the front door, bending down to pet Ollie goodnight, before he was off running towards the couch and settling between the two girls comfortably. You wrapped your arms around him, inhaling his scent before you rested your chin on his chest, looking up at him as he looked down on you, pressing your lips together again.

“I love you, drive safe ok?” You told him and he nodded, kissing your forehead, then one more time on your lips before you had to unwrap your arms.

“I will, and I love you too…I’ll call in the morning before my shift.”

You nodded, smiling as he parted ways with you, walking down the steps of your apartment building and into the parking lot below where he waved at you before he drove off into the night.

Closing the door and triple checking that you had locked it, you made your way over to the girls, already beginning to doze off slightly as they forced themselves to stay awake to say goodnight to you.

“I’m gonna let you two have the couch with Ollie tonight, but I’ll just be in my bedroom and I’ll keep my door open if anything, alright?” You told them softly, and they nodded their heads, with dopey smiles on their faces.

“Kay, goodnight,” they singsonged as their eyes fell and you quietly giggled, bending down to press a warm kiss to the tops of their heads.

“Goodnight, sweethearts…night Ollie.”

As Max laid there listening to the slight snores already coming from El, she couldn’t help but think about how uncomfortable she felt a few days ago in the doctor’s office. The bright fluorescent lighting and the cold, sterile environment made her feel uneasy and anxious. She was on edge about everything the doctor was saying and how it all erupted before her eyes.

But now, as she lay on the couch in your living room, with the soft glow of the moon seeping through the curtains and her eyelids, she felt safe and at peace. The warmth of the blankets and the gentle hum of the air conditioning made her feel calm and relaxed. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, letting the tension in her body melt away.

As she drifted off to sleep, she couldn’t help but feel hopeful about the future. She knew that there would be challenges and obstacles to overcome, but she also knew that she had the support of her friends and especially you and Steve. With a smile on her face, she whispered a quiet “thank you,” grateful for this moment of peace and comfort.

a/n: i hope you guys liked chapter one of this series!!! i know it is angsty and there is a lot of talk about mental and emotional health, but i really feel like it's something worth talking about. opening up is never easy and i hope this story depicts the high and lows of what that's like from max's eyes, but also the blossoming relationship that max and steve (and reader) will start to form as time goes on. a big big thank you to @translatemunson for always listening to my ideas and giving me some to incorporate as well!! i love you, effie <3 going to start working on chapter two soon!!! in the meantime, let me know what you think: reblogs, tags, comments, and likes are greatly appreciated!!!

taglist (if you would like to be added just leave a comment!): @translatemunson @kennedy-brooke @manda-panda-monium @tvserie-s-world @wanderlustaflame @fruitbutt @thegaysaretired

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ctitan98official · 3 months

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Anonymous: Hi Cody! I’ve been reading a lot of stories where Alcina takes care of the reader but I thought it would be cute if the reader took care of her for a change. So can you do a headcanon where Alcina isn’t feeling well (maybe she has a stomach bug or something) and the reader has to take care of her?

Poor Alci T^T She ate too many stupid man-things. Let’s get into it!

CW/TW: Mentions of throwing up

As you wake up one morning, you immediately notice something is off.

Alcina is usually up before you, but today she’s still in bed. Concerned, you gently brush her silky, dark hair away from her forehead. She stirs slightly, revealing a faint frown on her beautiful face. It seems that something is bothering her. “Alci, are you alright?” You ask softly.

Alcina opens her eyes and looks at you in discomfort. “I’m… Not feeling my best, draga,” She admits. Instinctively, you reach out and place a hand on her forehead, checking for any signs of a fever. Sure enough, she feels warm to the touch. “You’re burning up, babe,” You say, confirming your suspicion.

However, before Alcina can say anything else, her eyes shoot wide open and she claps a hand to her mouth. She stumbles quickly out of bed and rushes to the bathroom, heaving violently into the toilet.

You are hot on her heels, pulling her hair away from her face and rubbing her back.

After a moment or two, Alcina’s stomach finally settles a bit. She sits up and flushes the toilet, looking utterly exhausted.

Your heart hurts to see her so sick.

“I think I may have caught a stomach bug,” She says, her usually regal disposition decidedly absent. “I’m not used to being unwell like this.”

Alcina always carries herself with such strength and grace. Seeing her like this is surprising. You didn’t even realize that she could get sick… But you are eager to help. “Let me take care of you, babe,” You declare, determined to make her feel better. “I’ll get you a cool cloth and some water for you to sip on.”

Alcina nods weakly, and you guide her back to bed. You run and grab her a glass of water and wet a washcloth. Returning to her side, you gently place the cloth on her forehead, providing some relief from the fever’s warmth. You also offer the water to her.

She takes a small sip, grateful for your attentiveness. “Thank you, draga,” She murmurs, her voice soft but appreciative. “I feel better already having you here with me,” She says with a small smile.

You stay by her side throughout the day, making sure she’s comfortable and has everything she needs. You prepare a simple and nourishing meal, but she only manages to eat a little before her queasiness acts up again. You reassure her that it’s alright and set the plate aside before cuddling with her.

You hold her hand and offer comforting words, reminding her that she doesn’t have to be strong all the time. “Rest now,” You whisper, stroking her hand gently. “I’ll be here for you, taking care of you until you feel better.”

She manages a faint smile, her eyes showing genuine gratitude for your unwavering support. “I’m so lucky to have you, draga,” She tells you, her voice barely above a whisper. Although she’s unwell, she is greatly comforted by your presence.

As day turns into night, her fever starts to subside and her rest becomes more peaceful.

In the days that follow, Alcina’s strength gradually returns and she soon returns to her powerful and commanding self.

But you both carry the memory of those tender moments while she was sick, the times when she allowed herself to be vulnerable and let you care for her. It strengthens the bond between you, reminding her that even the mightiest of beings need someone to lean on and trust.

You’re proud to be that person for her.

Masterlist

#alcina dimitrescu #lady dimitrescu #re8 #re8 village #re8 lady dimitrescu #alcina dimitriscu x reader #lady dimitrescu x reader #alcina dimitrescu x y/n #alcina dimitrescu x reader #resident evil village #resident evil 8 #resident evil #resident evil imagines #lady dimitrescu x y/n

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theladyofdeath · 1 year

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Better or Worse {14}

Nessian. Angst. Modern AU.

@snelbz x @theladyofdeath collab

Better or Worse Masterlist

Warnings: language, child loss

~ Nesta ~

The ache between my thighs is slight when I wake up the following morning, but pleasant. There’s no confusion as I lay half on top of my husband, all of my bare skin lined up with his. My leg is hitched up on his thigh and one of his hands is, of course, on my ass. I lift my head to look at his sleeping face…

Only to find him awake and already gazing down at me.

“Good morning.” He smiles and his voice tells me he hasn’t been awake for long.

“Mmm, good morning.” I lean up and press my lips to his, feeling that hand on my ass tighten as he squeezes.

“How do you feel?” He asks, lips still brushing against mine.

“Sore,” I admit, chuckling. “But good. Amazing.”

He smiles, but cups my face, running his thumb over my cheekbone. “No regrets about what we did last night?”

I hesitate only for a second, considering what I’d told him in therapy. Cassian notices, but doesn’t push, doesn’t take my hesitation personally, knowing I’m working out my thoughts. “I only regret that we let it get to that point.”

His eyes soften as his thumb brushes over my bottom lip. “Sex isn’t everything, but I feel like nothing else is missing now. Everything is falling back into place.”

“I know what you mean,” I whisper, and I mean it. There’s a certain intimacy, an irreplaceable closeness that sex with the person you love creates. We had been missing that closeness for so long, and now I finally feel whole. Running my hand down his chest, I sigh contentedly. “I’m sorry.”

His brows furrow. “For what?”

“I know most of our issues began with me,” I say, tracing the ink on his chest with my finger. “And I haven’t owned up to that like I should. I know I’ve made a lot of mistakes, but I promise not to be like that anymore. I promise to communicate and not hide from my pain. I promise not to push you away.”

He’s listening to me quietly and when it’s clear I’m done talking, he takes my chin and makes me meet his gaze. “I need you to know that there has not been a day that has gone by that I have not been completely in love with you.”

Suddenly, I realize how much I’ve been longing to hear those words. How much I needed to hear them, how much I needed him to say them. Emotion springs from nowhere and my vision goes blurry. He reaches up as a tear falls and brushes it away, and when the tears keep coming he rolls on top of me and kisses my tears away.

“I love you,” he breathes. “I always have, and I always will.”

Check out is at eleven and we need to be at the airport by noon, but it’s only eight.

We spend the next couple hours showing each other just how deeply our love goes.

………..

“So it seems the time away did some good,” Gwyn says as we sit on the couch in front of her desk.

We’re a completely different couple than we were last time we were here. Cassian’s arm is around my shoulders and my hand rests on his leg. I’m leaning into him, comfortable in his loose embrace.

“You could say that,” Cassian replies, his arm hugging me closer for just a second before releasing me again.

I blush. Like a schoolgirl. I am twenty-nine years-old, a New York Times bestselling author and I am blushing because my husband loosely insinuated we had sex.

I don’t even know who I am.

“That’s good to hear.” Her smile is genuine and I can tell she cares about her clients. We aren’t a paycheck for her. She really wants to help us work through our issues and make it out of this stronger than we were. “Nesta, I know you were concerned about your workload while you were gone. How is it feeling now that you’re home? Are you still feeling overwhelmed?”

I take a minute to think about my words before I say them. “Honestly? Yes…but I’m managing my emotions better, I think.” Cassian nods his agreement beside me. “Most of it has to do with my agent, not necessarily the work itself, but I’m working on standing up for myself when it comes to him. So…it’s a work in progress.”

Gwyn nods thoughtfully. “A work in progress sounds promising.” She sets her pen down and looks between the two of us. “So, now that you two are home, what are a couple of goals you can set for yourselves?”

I look up at Cassian, who's already looking at me. He speaks first. “I think it’s time we let our family know about our past with infertility.” He says it hesitantly, as if he’s not sure how I’ll react, but it’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while now, too. “I think it’s important that we share that burden.”

“I agree,” I say, and I think it surprises him. “Especially since we’re not sure what the future holds, you know?”

Cassian gives me a confused expression and Gwyn remains quiet, letting us have this conversation. “What do you mean?”

“Well,” I say, suddenly feeling more aware of Gwyn’s presence, “now that we’re having sex again, things happen…you know? I mean, I know we’re being careful, me being on the pill and all, but stuff happens. I don’t know if I’m ever going to get pregnant again, and if I don’t…” I don’t finish that thought, and I start to stare at where my hand is on his lap. “If I don’t, then I guess it’s just not in the cards for us, but if I do…I want my sisters, and Rhys and Az, to be there with us. I want them to know, and if we have to go through something like that again, and gods, I hope we never have to again, but…if we do…I want to be able to lean on them for strength, too. For both of us. So, I say all that to say that I agree. I think we should share that burden. They love us, and will want to be there for us.”

Gwyn’s smile is encouraging and when I turn to Cassian, his eyes are lined with silver. I can read the pride on his face. A month ago, I wouldn’t even acknowledge the loss of our baby. I wouldn’t let myself think about it or I’d fall back into the dark place I barely clawed my way out of. Now, I want to tell our family, to take another step towards the closure I never thought I’d have.

I squeeze his leg gently, letting him know he doesn’t need to say anything. Instead, he presses a kiss to my temple and clears his throat. He looks to Gwyn and asks, “What else you got, doc?”

She laughs, shaking her head at him, as I’ve done a thousand times. “Just look at the personal progress you’ve made, Cassian. Asking for prompts?” She glances down at her notebook. “As always, only share whatever information you feel comfortable doing so, but I couldn’t help but notice you mentioned that you’re having sex again. I know that was a hurdle for both of you, for different reasons. How are you feeling, individually, after taking that step again?”

We look at each other and I give him a nod indicating he can go first. Turning back towards Gwyn, he removes his arm from my shoulders and laces his fingers together, staring at them. I know he’s not pulling away from me, the heat of his thigh pressing into mine is proof of that. “I’m a very physical person and I don’t mean that in just a sexual way. I work a physically demanding job, I enjoy working my body hard at the gym, and I crave the intimacy of physical contact. I hadn’t realized just how draining it was to not have that contact, to not hold her hand in the car or curl up on the couch, until it was gone. And even then, I didn’t fully understand what I was missing. We drifted apart and I thought the wrongness I felt was due to our marriage deteriorating, but even when things started to get better, things still weren’t quite right. Now that we’re having sex, it feels like things are getting back to the way they used to be.” He glances over at me and I can see the slight blush high in his cheeks. “However, we are a, uh, very sexual couple. Sex isn’t everything, of course, but it has always been a big part of our relationship. With it missing, we sort of lost sight of who we were, together. Now it feels like we’re finally getting back on track.”

His words have me emotional in all the right ways.

“You feel the rekindling of normalcy and connection,” Gwyn says, kindly, and Cassian nods. “Very good. Nesta? How do you feel now that you’ve taken that step?”

I hesitate, but Cassian doesn’t seem to take offense to it. He simply watches me, and waits patiently. “On the topic of our past, I am scared of getting pregnant again,” I admit, quietly. “But, I’m on birth control. I don’t think I’m going to be off of it any time soon. And, I agree with Cassian. Sex has always been a big part of our relationship and it’s felt like something has been missing. Now that we’ve found that intimacy again, it feels right. I feel like we’ve been mending a connection that had been really, really broken for a long time.”

Gwyn is quiet for a long time, then she says, “I’m proud of you two. I can see your growth and hear the truth behind your words. I want to encourage you to always be mindful. Keep communication open. Do not go a day without talking about your feelings, even now when things are going well. It’s when things are going good that you need to keep working on your relationship. Never stop building your foundation and I have no doubt that the two of you will thrive.”

Cassian's hand finds mine and squeezes. There’s a promise in his touch, one that makes me want to climb on top of him right here and now and proclaim my love. But I keep it in my pants as we wrap up our session with Gwyn.

I do kiss him the moment we’re in the car, though. I think I catch him off guard as I fling myself over the middle console, grab his face, and shove my tongue into his mouth. He laughs quietly against my lips before he starts kissing me back.

We go on like that for a minute before I break it, and when I lean back, his eyes have that look that makes my toes curl and my heart beat a little bit faster.

“What was that for?” he asks.

“Because I love you,” I tell him, without any hesitation.

“I love you, too,” he promises, then he’s taking my hand as I drive us out of the parking lot.

We’re halfway down Main Street when he squeezes my hand and says, “We’ve almost been married ten years.”

I can’t believe it, can’t believe that we’ve been married for almost a decade. I can’t believe that I almost lost him, too, after all that time, when we still have a lifetime to go. “We have,” I say, playfully. “I can’t believe we got married when we were just babies.”

Cassian chuckles. “Do you ever regret getting married so young?”

His question is not judgmental, only curious. I glance at him. “No. Never.”

“Me either,” he says, his voice light as his thumb brushes the back of my hand. “I knew I wanted to marry you from the second I met you.”

I snort, keeping my eyes on the road. “Yeah, right. I was a bitch to you.”

“Which I loved.”

Now I outright laugh. “Liar.”

He shakes his head. “I swear. You were feisty. Even when you pissed me off, I couldn’t get enough of you.”

I pull up to a redlight just as he finishes speaking, and he’s looking at me with the softest eyes and the easiest smile. I feel my cheeks redden, which is ridiculous, but I’m too in love with him to care or be embarrassed.

His grin widens as I start moving again. “Ten years,” he says, again, and I feel something similar to teenage butterflies fluttering around in the pit of my stomach. “Let’s get remarried.”

I nearly swerve off the road. “What?”

“Yeah, like a vow renewal type of thing,” he says, nonchalantly. “Let’s do that.”

As my thoughts run wild, I pull the car off the road and put it in park on the shoulder. When I take my hands off the wheel and face Cassian, he looks confused, but then I ask, “Are you fucking kidding me?”

He hesitates. “What?”

“Let’s do that?” I repeat. “That’s how you’re going to ask me to renew our vows?”

His grin returns. “Yeah. Why? Not good enough?”

“No!” I yell, shoving him, which only makes him laugh. “You can’t ask me something like that so…so….casually.”

“Nesta—”

“You’re practically proposing marriage again,” I go on, staring at him dubiously. “You can’t propose in the passenger seat while I’m driving down the road.”

“Pretty sure I proposed marriage a decade ago,” he mutters, eyes bright.

“No,” I say, shaking my head. “I demand a romantic gesture. Then I’ll give you my answer.” When I look at him, he’s grinning that insufferable grin of his. “You proposed romantically. Be romantic now.”

His humored eyes soften. “I was pretty romantic, wasn’t I?”

I think back to that day, when he proposed. It was early spring, but it was a beautiful night. We were in the midst of a storm, but there was a lull in the weather and although the grass was damp and the sky was gray, it was warm outside and the sun was peeking through the clouds. He went on and on about his love for me, about what we meant to each other, and then when the softest of rains began to fall again from the heavens, he asked me to marry him.

I said yes, with no hesitation.

“I remember everything I said that day,” he says, quietly. “And I meant every damn word. I still mean every damn word.”

I swallow, trying to hide the rush of emotion that has flooded my body, my soul, my entire being. “You do?”

He nods. “I told you,” he began, taking my hand in his, “that I loved you more than anyone I had ever loved before. I hadn’t even realized that the love I had for you was possible. You completely surprised me; came out of nowhere. I hadn’t meant to fall in love with you, but I did. Without hesitation. Without doubt. That day, I vowed that I would love you until the day that I die, that I would love you unconditionally, and that no matter how hard life gets….I would be there for you. And I hope you know that’s still true. I will love you, Nesta, until I’m not here anymore, and there is nothing that you could do that would make me stop loving you. No matter what happens, I’ll be here, and I am just in love with you today as I was the day that I asked you to marry me.”

I don’t realize that I’m crying until he reaches up and brushes away my tears.

“I want to renew our vows so that you know, without a doubt, that I am inconceivably in love with you,” he breathes.

“Inconceivably?” I ask, breath hitched on a laugh. “Yeah, I read your books.” He grins, his thumb brushing along my bottom lip.

I laugh, the sound bringing more tears to my eyes.

“What do you say?” He asks, leaning in so our lips are a hair's breadth apart.

My eyes fall shut as his breath fans over my lips, smelling of spearmint gum and it takes everything in me not to crawl over the middle console and show him how I feel.

But I don’t.

Instead, I kiss him softly, sweetly, and pull away. I smile as I breathe, “Ask me later.”

I can already see the mischief in his eyes, the plan he’s coming up with. “You’re never going to see it coming.”

“Good.”

Putting the car into drive, I pull back onto the road, merging into traffic. Cassian takes my hand, pressing a kiss to my knuckles.

It feels like we’re going to be okay.

More than okay.

Perfect.

#nessian #nesta #cassian #fanfic #modern au #fanfiction #acotar #acowar #acomaf #acosf #acofas

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rockbottomhq · 7 months

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hey angels! we just wanted to drop in very quickly to touch base on a few things regarding general group etiquette and expectations around activity. i know we say this all the time, but we mean it when we say you guys are genuinely an incredible bunch of writers and we are so incredibly pleased with how this group has flourished so far. when we make these notes, it's really just to keep things going as smoothly as they have so far.

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to dive a little deeper into the topic of member comfort, we just want to remind you guys to make sure that you're tagging things accordingly. if you're second guessing whether or not something on the dash should be tagged, it's better to play it safe and tag something rather than leave it untagged and run the risk of making someone uncomfortable. here is our current, up to date trigger list. if there's something missing there that you think should be on there, or if we're missing any of your personal triggers, please reach out to us asap and we'll get the list updated. taking the extra second to make sure something is tagged is a small action that goes a long way in making your fellow dash friends feel taken care of and it's something we appreciate greatly.

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that's all for now! please give this post a little like once you've read through it. and as always, thank you guys for making rock bottom such a pleasure to mod.

#rb.note

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spicy-picklez · 1 year

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Rainbow after a Storm(P2)

Includes:

Rape and self harm mentions.

Characters:

Larissa Weems x female reader

Summary:

You and Larissa trust each other with some meaningful secrets as she helps take care of you after the incident.

Word Count:

2.4k

——————————————————————————

Rolling over, the morning sun peeking through the curtains hits your face. Slowly opening your eyes, you have to take a moment to figure out you live in Principal Weems’ quarters now. The space on the bed which was occupied by Principal Weems is now vacant. You reach for your phone, checking the time. 10.27am.

“Shit. I’m so dead!” You rapidly sit up, a shooting pain running through your veins as you push off your arm. “Motherfucking shitcunt… fuck!” Standing up, you take a glimpse at your arm, blood starting to seep through again. “For fucks sake.” You mutter, walking over to grab your uniform.

The door flies open, you turn around to see Principal Weems’ coming over to you, concern written on her face. “Y/N hun, are you ok?” Her eyes no doubt looking at the fresh blood staining the white bandages. “I’m great, only horribly late to class and accidentally reopened my arm getting outta bed.” You say, rummaging through your clothes trying to find your uniform.

“Y/N, did you not think that there was a reason I didn’t wake you up for your classes? I do run the school incase you’ve forgotten. I told your teachers that for the next two days you won’t be attending classes.” Amusement in her voice as she says this. Confused, you raise your head to look at her.

“But.. why?” You had never had anyone show you such compassion and thoughtfulness. You least expected it to come from your principal, this was evident in your voice as you ask.

She takes a step closer to you. “Y/N, why are you always so surprised when a human being actually tries to show you compassion and help you? I didn’t tell your teachers about what happened, I didn’t believe they needed to know. The only people aware of yesterdays events are Wednesday, Ms Thornhill, Coach Vlad and us. I thought if you wanted people to know, it should be you to tell them. You have these next two days to start healing.”

At this point, you couldn’t tell if her kindness was genuine or if she had a deeper motive behind it. But there was something so calming about her presence, you felt yourself inclined to give her the benefit of the doubt… something you haven’t done in nearly a decade.

“I just… never really thought it’d be a principal to show me what compassion is.” You mutter, breaking the eye contact. Her hand reaches out to grab your uninjured wrist. “Y/N…” Her name soft on her tongue, sadness and compassion in her voice. “Listen, I gotta go back to work, my office is just right through that door so call me if you need anything. But tonight, if you want, we can head down to the Weathervane for hot chocolate.”

At the mention of Jericho, your heart races. You feel his hands on your body, rough and degrading. Your hands pinned against the brick wall behind your back, tears streaking down your face.

“Y/N?” Concern plaguing Principal Weems’ voice as it brings you back to reality. Realising she’s still waiting for your response, you clear your throat.

“Hot chocolate sounds great but the last time I went to Jericho, it didn’t end well…”

“Y/N, what do you mean?” You can feel her grip on your wrist gently tighten as her body tenses, her heart rate increasing.

“Not now, you have work.” You say, giving her a not at all convincing smile. “I’ll be ok.”

She holds your gaze for a second, before giving a gentle nod. “If you need anything, I’ll just be in the next room. I mean it Y/N. Anything.” She gives your hand a comforting squeeze before exiting the room, her heels clicking against the wooden floor.

What just happened? Not once have you trusted someone as easily as her. The hold she has over you just by her showing you compassion is overwhelming. Lying back down on the bed, you mindlessly put on Netflix on your phone and begin to space out as Orange is the New Black’s theme song sounds around the room.

9 episodes later, the sound of the door opening causes you to break your gaze away from the screen. Larissa enters the room, heaving a sigh as she mutters something under her breath, leaning against the back of the now shut door.

“Rough day?” A warm smile on your lips as you ask. She seems to remember you’re there and jumps, her head turning towards you. “Y/N!” She exclaims, you’re unable to stifle your chuckle. She grins. “Yeah something like that. How’s your injuries?”

You glance at your arm, still the single bloodstain from earlier. “Well I haven’t managed to reopen any others so I’d say it’s doing good.” A cheeky grin appearing on your face as she reciprocates an amused smile.

“Well how about we change that dressing and I’ll make us some hot chocolates.” She says, already heading to grab new bandages from the bathroom.

Following her, you start unwrapping your arm. A small “fuck” escapes you as you realise some of the stitches, which you honestly forgot you have, have come undone. “Principal Weems?” You say turning the corner into the bathroom.

“Y/N, you’re living in my quarters, I believe you’ve earned the right to call me Larissa.” She says, turning around to face you. Your face turns red as she says this. “Larissa…” Hers turning the same shade as she hears her name fall off your tongue. She was never fond of her name after being teased for it as a kid but the way it sounded coming from you was enough to make her heart race. “Did you have any tweezers? I need to twist a few stitches back together.” You continue, her eyes dropping to your arm before reaching into a drawer and pulling out a pair.

“Hold your arm up.” She says, her voice soft and you obey, holding it up as she redoes the stitches, her soft hands gently brushing your skin. She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a packet of saline wipes.

“I got this today to help your wounds heal. Forgive me but this might sting.” She says grabbing a wipe out of the packet. “Its ok, I can handle a fair amount of pain.” She takes a sharp breath as you say that. Slowly, she gently caresses your wounds with the wipe, sharp stings of the saline touching your cuts making you clench your fist but still don’t move. “Good…” She breathes out, grabbing a clean tissue and gently patting your arm dry. Your stomach twists as she says that, heat rising in your core. How did that one word have such an effect on you? She begins bandaging your arm, both of you standing in silence. You are hyperaware of your proximity to each other. The way her hand has a gentle but firm grasp holding the gauze in place.

As she finishes wrapping your arm, neither of you say anything, both just staring into each others eyes. Larissa can feel your heartbeat increase as she maintains holding your wrist. Your eyes are hooked on her gorgeous blue ones. Realising just how close you two were, Larissa clears her throat, stepping away. “So, hot chocolate?” She says with a soft smile, your wrist still in her hand. You nod. “Yeah… sounds good.” It’s at your words that the eye contact is finally broken.

She leads you over to the couch, the fire already lit. As you sit down, she walks into another room in the quarters, presumably the kitchen. She returns a few minutes later with two mugs of hot chocolate, small marshmallows floating on the top. Handing you a cup, she takes a seat next to you, folding her legs up onto the couch next to her. Her elbow resting on the arm rest.

“Y/N…” She starts, her voice soft but cautious, not sure how you’d react to her following question. “Earlier today you mentioned that the last time you went to Jericho, things didnt go well… the last time you went to Jericho was earlier that day. Was that what caused you to hurt yourself?”

Taking a deep breath, you nod. You already knew this question was coming. “I was walking down the street when I saw someone I had a not so great past with. He came up to me and I tried to get away but he’s twice my size. I got dragged into an alleyway and trapped up against a wall with my arms behind my back. I fought-.” Its at this point that the tears start leaking from your eyes, a lump forming in your throat.

Her hand reaches over and places it on your thigh comfortingly, she could already guess what you were going to say next. “I fought so hard. I didn’t want him to do it to me again. I didn’t want to go through it again. But he didnt stop. One hand was cupped over my mouth, pushing my head back into the wall and I got lightheaded. I couldn’t fight him much after that. I just had to stand there as he… as he raped me.” She straightens her legs out, reaching over to pull you back into her.

Her arms wrap around you, one hand stroking your hair as you cry into her shoulder. You try to focus on her breathing, feeling her chest rise up and down against you. Her perfume wafts up your nose as you breath in her now familiar scent of Beyoncé’s Heat Kissed. Calming your tears, you steady your breath. “It wasn’t the first time I’ve been raped. What upset me most about it was he was the first person to rape me. We were best friends as kids before he raped me in his backyard when we were 7 years old. I hadn’t seen him since then.”

You feel one of her hands unwrap itself from around you as she places it under your chin, lifting your head up to look at her. “Y/N… I’m so sorry. You shouldn’t have ever had to go through that and I promise you that as long as I shall live, you will never experience anything like that again. You are safe here, Y/N.” Her eyes watering as she says this, a single tear running down her cheek. She wraps her hand back around you and holds you tight.

“You’re safe.” She whispers, continuing stroking your hair. You believe her, wrapping your arms around her, fully embracing each other. Both of you knew it was wrong being this close with each other. God, you’re a student and she’s your principal. Yet, neither of you can deny you have a connection so you both relax into each others embrace.

“You know, I’ve never been raped, the complete opposite actually. I was known as the freak, and I know it’s normal for outcasts but even when I attended school here, no one dared approach me. My height and my ability making me different from the other outcasts. I was the only shapeshifter to attend here at the time.” She says quietly, remembering the days where she was trapped in dark closets, screaming for help as her bullies laughed.

“Why do you think no one knows mine? I’ve always hidden it from everyone… until now.” You say quietly. You’ve never shown anyone your ability on purpose but you know she’d understand better than anyone else. She is captivated on your every word, her breath catching in her throat as she watches you transform into her. Her hand reaches up to cup your face as you transform back into yourself. “You’re a shapeshifter…” She whispers, barely believing her eyes. Shapeshifters are rare, she wasn’t aware anyone currently attending Nevermore was one. You were the only one without an ability listed to your name.

“Y/N…” She says, pulling you into a tighter embrace. “Thank you.”

You knew she meant it. Until you found out she herself was a shapeshifter, you had felt so alone, so out of place and you know that thats exactly how she felt until now. She lets her body slip further down on the couch, you still wrapped in her embrace. You close your eyes, feeling her warm arms gentle but firm pulling you close, the fire against your cheek, enjoying her perfume.

It’s at this point where both you and Larissa should realise how wrong this would look if someone were to see. But if either of you did, neither mentioned it. Both just enjoying the comfort and touch of another person that they’ve so desperately lacked.

Larissa’s ringtone made your eyes fly open. You do admit that you’d fallen asleep while in her embrace, not too sure exactly what time it is. “Hello?” Her voice, deep and groggy, suggests she’d done the same. Her hand around your body pulls you closer as you try to reach for your phone, letting you know that you’re staying there.

The caller and Larissa share a few minutes of conversation, most likely something about the school. You weren’t sure, you weren’t paying attention, too content in her embrace to focus on anything else. As the caller says their goodbyes, you lift your head off her shoulder. “Whats the time?” You ask, not realising just how asleep you were, surprising yourself with how groggy it sounds.

She checks her phone, “10.30pm give or take a few. We should head to bed.” You nod as she says this, realising you’re about to fall asleep again. You let her slide off the couch as she stands, reaching a hand out to help you up. Taking it, you stand. The minute you reach the bed, you collapse onto it, pretty much asleep before you hit the pillow.

Larissa smiles as you fall onto the bed, she knew what you two had already done wasn’t safe but after falling asleep with you, she longed for that again. Climbing over you, she rolls onto her side of the bed. Lying on her side, she slings an arm around you. The two of you sleep, chests rising and falling with each breath.

——————————————————————————

#principal weems #larissa x reader #larissa weems #forbidden love #forbidden romance #nevermore

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theautumnpicker · 7 months

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Read on AO3.

The arm and leg of a teddy bear lay beside its mutilated body. As far as Astarion is concerned, it's the consequences of Karlach's own actions. If the bear was so important to her, she shouldn't have left it at camp in reach of the dog. From Volo's report, Scratch hadn't even shaken the thing particularly hard; it seemed to fall apart the moment he put his teeth on it. No surprise there. The bear was ratty to begin with.

Well, it's no great loss. At least the mutt hadn't chewed up anything of actual value. Astarion feels worse for Scratch, really, who is now curled up on the far side of the camp with his tail over his nose, whining now and then and looking deeply ashamed. He only wanted to play.

Karlach doesn't weep over the teddy like a child, but Astarion's not sure he's ever seen that mournful look persist on her face for more than five minutes. Even if it is her own fault, it's damned depressing being in the same camp as her. No one talks that evening. It's an eerie silence over the campfire. By the hells, anyone would think someone had actually died.

While the others are eating dinner, then, Astarion collects the pieces of the bear and brings them to his tent. He breaks out his sewing kit, the same he uses every second evening to repair the damage to his armor or clothing, and gets started with reattaching the limbs to the aging fabric. It's even less of a surprise that they'd fallen off, now that he's holding the bear in his hands and can see just how many of the seams have split, how the thread attaching the eyes has loosened to the degree that one of them is in danger of falling out at any moment. There's no point in doing this at all if he doesn't do it right, so Astarion reinforces the seams with careful stitches in his practiced hand.

He's still repairing a small gash to the foot when Gale approaches the tent adjacent his, evidently having finished eating first. Astarion glances up and sees Karlach still staring pensively into a bowl of stew.

"Is that Karlach's bear?" asks Gale, and Astarion sighs. "That's very nice of you, Astarion!" He sounds genuinely touched.

"I don't know what you mean, darling. I'm always nice." He peers up at the wizard, tilting his chin back in a haughty pose and narrowing his eyes. "But if you say a word about this to anyone else, I might forget to be. I'd rather not play seamstress to the entire camp."

Gale looks amused in a way that infuriates Astarion, like he thinks he's learned something about him. "You don't need to worry on my account. My lips are sealed."

"Good. Now, do keep them that way while I'm working. If anyone asks, I've been out hunting." Astarion redoubles his efforts now that some of the others are beginning to finish their meal. He runs his fingers over the fabric of the bear, checking for weak points. It can't exactly be called good as new, but at least it won't fall apart again if given a firm shaking.

Much to the continued amusement of the wizard beside him, once he's finished, Astarion directs his Mage Hand to carry the bear back to Karlach's tent and dismisses it afterwards, sight unseen. Just as he's stealing away into the woods to make good on his alibi, he can hear Karlach's delighted cry: "Clive! How— Did you do this, Gale? Oh, I'd hug you if I could!"

Astarion doesn't hear the wizard's response, but as he slips away, the smile forms on his face for once without deliberation.

#baldurs gate 3 #Astarion #my fic #ficlet #clive bg3

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dari-ede · 1 year

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Seven Times I Hated Kim Seokjin: Ch 7

Chapter 7: “끝나지 않은 우리 얘기”

Chapters : 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05(M) | 06(M) | 07

MASTERLIST

Summary: I was living a perfectly, normal, mundane life.... So why in the HELL did Kim Seokjin walk into it and ruin it all for me???

Pairing: Idol!Jin x Female Reader

Rating: M (story contains explicit sexual scenes)

STATUS: Complete!

SPECIAL NOTE: Sending good thoughts and positive vibes to the real Mr. Kim Seokjin. 🥰

And a big hug to whoever is needing it today.

_____________________

"How does it look?" he asked, keeping his eyes fully on me.

It was so strange to see him like this. He had just come back from getting his buzzcut. In these five years together, I had never seen the shape of his head so clearly. If I was being honest, it looked a little egg-shaped. I had the immediate knee-jerk reaction to laugh as I imagined his head becoming an egg. I pushed down the laughter and reached out to touch his hair, hoping it would distract him and he wouldn't catch the smile that was threatening to come out. "It's different," I said.

It worked. His eyes followed my hand. "Feels different." He rubbed his head, rubbing his palm against his newly shaved head.

"Good different or bad different?" I asked, mimicking his moves. His hair felt almost like a bristle brush.

"Not sure," he mumbled. "Does it look good or bad?" he asked, pressing, as his eyes fell on my face again.

I smiled at him and took another step towards him. "You would look good bald," I said genuinely. I reached up, took hold of his face, and gave him a kiss full on the lips.

He grinned down at me, his arms coming around my waist and pulling me close. "As long as you like it, I can live with it."

I giggled as he brushed his nose against mine. "I like everything about you."

His top teeth came into full view as his smile turned wider. And once again, for the trillionth time, I feel myself melting into him.

"Seokjinssi," came a voice behind us.

We quickly separated and turned towards the door, which was where the voice had come from.

A staff member gave her apologies but announced that they were ready for him. We were at HYBE headquarters due to a few things Jin had to record. Thankfully, it wasn't going to be too many hours they needed him. He was only going to shoot for a little while and then we would be off to dinner with his family. He was set to have some time with the guys this weekend as well. There would be some time left for us privately, but it wouldn't be until later.

Seokjin thanked the staff and informed her he would be on his way in a bit. As soon as she left, he turned to me and took my hand into his. "I think Maya might be in the building."

I nodded. "She is. I messaged her earlier. I'm going to go see her right now."

With a last peck on the lips, we both went out ways. He headed left to film for work and I headed right toward Maya's studio.

Maya was an American artist and talented songwriter. She had known the guys for years and had helped co-write several of their songs. A few years ago, she moved to Korea to become a freelance songwriter for HYBE. Her stay here only helped strengthen her friendship with the group. I, too, had become quite close to her because of this and now considered her a friend. Whenever I came to visit Jin now at headquarters, I wasn't as bored as often since I had Maya to help keep me company.

After entering Maya's studio, I took a seat on her love couch as she tidied up and saved her work.

"So, how are you doing?" she asked after allowing herself to relax on the chair across from me.

Maya was the type of friend who genuinely cared for others. And not just on a superficial level or physical sense, but mental health-wise. She often checked in on the guys to see how their stress level was and was very vocal to voice her concerns when she thought they were taking too much. From what Seokjin and the guys said, Maya was almost like an older, protective sister. When I first met her, she had been kind and warm. Over the years, we became friends. But this last year, we had gotten especially close, which I was grateful for. During the last part of this year, I had gone through a rough patch due to Jin's ongoing military postponement. Seokjin and I had worked through it, but on days that I was too upset to speak to him, I turned to Maya for a shoulder.

I knew I couldn't lie to her when she asked how I was doing. "I'm trying not to think too much about it," I said honestly. "I'm literally taking it one day at a time. I wake up, check Seokjinie's schedule and build around that. When it's time to go to sleep, I focus on being in the moment with him and not think about the next day."

"That's good," Maya said with a small smile. "Has Jin been the same?"

I crack a smile and roll my eyes a little, scoffing a bit. "That's his attitude regardless. He doesn't like looking too far into the future."

Maya gave a slight nod, agreeing with me.

I chuckled for a little, thinking of how Seokjin could be a bit immature sometimes now that he didn't have a lot of work on his plate. He mostly did nothing during his time off. It never bothered me; quite the opposite, I found it endearing when I saw him enjoying his free time. For so many years, he had worked almost every single day without having more than one day off. Seeing him relax and stress about an AI on a video console warmed my heart.

But he was days away from no longer living in that world. Soon, he would be having long days that would not only be physically exhausting but mentally take a toll on him. He would be sleep deprived and his nutritious foods would be taken away. Suddenly, dozens of concerns began to fill my head. Usually, Seokjin was next to me and I was able to force myself from allowing my thoughts to become too dark. But he wasn't here....

"Unnie," a voice called to me, full of concern.

I took a breath, caught myself, and forced myself to calm down. After a couple of seconds, I turned to Maya and gave her a small smile. "I'm ok."

But she didn't look convinced. Slowly, she made her way over to me. "You sure?"

I nodded but didn't think I had the strength enough to further talk.

Maya analyzed me, trying to figure out how to best handle the situation. Thankfully, she read my mind and decided to keep me occupied with frivolous things, such as a couple of dramas we were watching. Eventually, I forgot about what awaited me in a few days.

*******

We were both up quite early that day. Neither of us had been able to sleep much.

I tried not to think of it. Tried to ignore the fact that for the next year or so, our time was going to be very short. Tried to ignore the fact that in the next 540 days, we would be lucky if we got to spend 70 days together. Only 10% of the next 18 months, I would be able to see him. Hear him. Feel him.

Laying together on the bed, my head stayed on his chest, breathing in his scent and trying to hold onto that memory. I was going to have to make sure I didn't wash any of his clothes all week. Hell, I didn't even want to wash the sheets. The next time I would see him, he wouldn't smell the same. It would be different. He wouldn't smell like he did now--like home.

Throughout the night, I felt Seokjin's nose press up against my hair, taking a deep breath. Seemed as if he was trying to do the same with me. He was trying to capture my smell and keep it in his memory.

I wanted to talk to him; make sure none of our time was wasted. Since we were both awake, I was confused as to why neither of us talked. It took a long moment to accept that holding each other was enough. No words really needed to be said. Our embrace was enough.

We didn't pay the alarm much mind. We turned it off and got ready in almost silence, speaking a few words to one another.

And as we made our way out of our home, I checked the clock in the entrance hall, making sure we were good on time.

Most of the day had a low energy, despite Seokjin doing his best to crack jokes every time he could. We laughed, of course, but still felt the heaviness weigh in on us.

When it was time to head out, only a few of us accompanied him. He wanted to keep it small and intimate. We respected that.

I took notice of how he never left my side. As he spoke to his parents, brother, friends, and members, he ensured I stayed close. There were a couple of times he noticed I wasn't following him, but he quickly caught on to it. He turned around and took hold of my hand, pouting at me. It was one of the few times that I actually cracked a smile. His genuine pouts were always endearing.

I did stay mostly at his side. The only time I didn't was when I noticed his mother. Feeling he needed privacy with his family, I pulled away. He reached for me, but I brushed away his hand, gesturing to his mother. By the saddened look on her face, she looked close to losing it. I imagined she wanted at least one tiny moment alone with her sons and husband.

Thankfully, Seokjin took the prompt and caught on to his mother's needs. He went to her.

I stepped back and joined the others. We all stayed still as we allowed Seokjin and his family a few moments.

Minutes later, the Kim family pulled apart, Jin then making his way to the rest of us. Keeping things light and happy, Seokjin did a perfect job of making sure everyone was at ease. He goofed around and prevented the atmosphere from becoming too gloomy.

Sadly, the final call was made. My stomach began to churn.

Seokjin went to everyone and gave his last goodbyes.

Maya was the next to bid him farewell. The pair exchanged a few words, Seokjin whispering in her ear so only she could hear. I heard her tell him something along the lines of "I'll look after her." She gave him a nod and a kind smile.

"Thank you, Mai-Mai," he told her and she pulled away. He didn't call her that too often, only when he was being sentimental.

Next was Namjoon. He and Seokjin spent a good amount of time together. Namjoon had always been a guy very much in touch with his feelings. He had been crying off and on the entire morning. Right now, his face was still a little flushed but he was controlling himself. Then, right before they backed away from each other, Seokjin whispered something in Namjoon's ear.

Namjoon's face turned serious. Namjoon looked intently into Seokjin's eyes and gave him an assured nod. "Consider it done. No problem."

They shook hands and Seokjin held tightly to his leader's hand. "Promise me."

Another confident nod from Namjoon. "I promise, hyung."

Seokjin seemed to be satisfied with Namjoon's response and he finally let go.

I was the last one for him to say his goodbyes to.

Thankfully, I noticed our friends and his family making a kind of circle around us, blocking anyone from looking at us too closely.

He bent over so only I could hear him. "Please look after yourself, gongjunim. Eat well, go to bed at a decent time, and drink plenty of water." He continued to list other things, but I wasn't listening. I was too busy trying to contain my tears from spilling. There was a heaviness in my chest and it was getting a little harder to take in breaths.

I did my best to focus on his eyes, allowing him to ground me.

"Will you promise me that, gongjunim?" he asked, his voice tender with a slight quiver.

It was at that moment that I noticed he was getting emotional as well. Tears were beginning to form in his eyes.

I nodded and reached out, taking his hand in mine. "I love you, jagiya," I said, putting my entire heart into the words.

He leaned in, his lips brushing mine lightly. "I love you."

Taking a breath, we pulled apart. He squeezed my hand one last time and gave everyone one last wave as he took steps back.

He walked off and sent me a sweet and courageous smile. His eyes were red, puffy, and watery, but he kept the tears in.

I waved back at him, giving him the same smile back and also containing my tears.

A hand wrapped around mine and took hold. I wasn't sure who it was, but I imagined it might have been Maya. We all stood there until he left our view.

Surprisingly, I still kept it together.

*******

I did ok the rest of the day. Maya, my sister, and my cousin stayed with me that night, keeping me company. Maya brought a nice bottle of wine to keep our spirits up. We spoke a little about Jin, but mostly they did their best to keep my brain occupied.

The next day, I made sure to stay well over my time at work.

My cousin and sister met me for a late dinner, prolonging the long night that lied ahead of me.

As much as I wanted to go home and have his scent embrace every part of me, I feared the break down. A few tears had been shed since the day before, but they had been manageable. I still felt in control.

Finally, a little after 1AM, I couldn't procrastinate anymore. We all had work the next day and in good conscience, I couldn't keep my sister and cousin up for so long.

Reaching our front door, I took a breath, bracing myself for the emotions I was sure were going to take over.

As I walked down the entrance and entered the empty living room, his scent was instant and hit me like a truck. I inhaled him, feeling his essence run through my lungs and enter every cell in me.

My stomach clenched and something squeezed at my throat.

I took my breaths, calming myself.

After several moments, my body felt more in control. The emotions were still there, but I managed to keep them from overtaking me. Turning to the clock, I noticed it had been about 36 hours since I last had contact with him. I looked down at my phone out of habit. Opening it, I automatically opened my messages and then my email.

Nothing. 36 hours and nothing.

It was rare when he went over 30 hours without contact. But since we had been together, he never went over 48 hours. I wondered how tomorrow would be like.

I placed down my things and made my way over to the wine. I needed it tonight. If I went to bed sober, I was sure I was going to be in pieces.

*******

I left my phone at my desk and did my best not to log into any of my personal emails while I was at work the next morning. I didn't want the temptation of checking to see if he would miraculously message me. I knew it was impossible and illogical to allow my imagination to go there. Despite the small amount of sleep, I left to work extremely early. Thankfully, I had plenty of things to work on to keep me occupied.

I was doing great. I kept myself from thinking of him almost all morning.

However, sometime in the late morning, I started to feel a bit off. It hit me so suddenly; the stomach cramps, the queasiness, the push against my chest. I had never felt this sick.

My coworkers were quick to notice my change and insisted I go home. I guess I looked bad enough that they even called me a cab and pushed me out of the office.

I managed to get home on time. Hurrying to the restroom, I was grateful my team had forced me to come home. It took a while for me to finally feel it was safe enough to get back on my feet. Getting to the kitchen, I poured myself some water and started the kettle. Out of nowhere, I could hear Jin's voice. He was insisting I make myself some tea. I had promised him I would look after myself, yet here I was not eating like I said I would. Consuming only alcohol and coffee. I had been careless.

Even though I had no appetite to eat, especially after everything that occurred in the restroom, I forced myself to order some soup. Nothing too heavy, just light and nutritious. I wanted nothing more than to curl up in a ball and sleep for the next ten hours, but it wouldn't be smart for me to do so.

I ate most of the soup and tea. When I was finished, I left them in the sink and told myself I would wash them later.

Selecting the last t-shirt he had worn, I put it on and crawled under the sheets. Rather than sleep on my side of the bed, I wiggled over to his. The warmth was gone, but his aroma was still all over the pillow. Instinctively, I pressed my nose over it and inhaled, allowing his scent to fill my lungs.

Then, without warning, without the smallest sign, the emotions within me took over. My body curled itself into a fetal position as I clutched onto the pillow. My tears came down as my heart ripped into pieces. My nose pressed against the shirt I had on me. And at breathing him in again, I felt my soul rip.

I needed him. I needed him here. With me. This wasn't like the times he was off traveling where I could at least message him and would get a response at least a day later. This wasn't like the times he was working himself close to exhaustion but had his members there to check on him. No one he knew was there to ensure he was ok. No one I knew could check he was eating right and taking his supplements. And I had no one's number to check. On my phone, there were at least four numbers saved for his managers and assistants. On rare occasions, I used them when I became too worried for Seokjin. But now I had no one's. I was in the dark.

The sounds coming out of me were so foreign to me. I had never heard myself this way. But I knew it was only giving audio of how my heart was feeling.

I'm not sure how long I was in bed like that, but eventually, my volume went down.

And that's when I heard it. Someone was at my door.

My body acted without my brain needing to control it. It got up on its own and made its way to the door. Before opening it up, I made sure to check who was on the other side. Seeing who it was, I immediately opened the door. Worry immediately took over.

What were they doing here? It must be bad.

Standing in the hall were six pairs of brown eyes looking at me. All of which contained worried looks as they stared at me.

“Maya called your work and they told her you would be here,” Namjoon said, looking at me worriedly.

“We’ve been calling and messaging you all day, noona,” Taehyung said with a look that mirrored Namjoon.

Something hit me at seeing them all here.

"Ah, noona," Jimin said sadly and then took a step forward to take me in his arms.

The moment my head reached his shoulder, I noticed the rest of the guys stepping forward.

One by one, they each wrapped me into their embrace, soothing words coming out of them.

I must have looked like a mess if they were this concerned about me. Other than Jimin and Taehyung, the rest of the guys rarely hugged me.

Then, something caught my eye. I turned and faced the clock. I noticed the time.

It had been 47 hours and 53 minutes since I had last spoken to Seokjin.

Recognizing this, I felt myself come undone all over again. I cried into every one of their shoulders, my sobs becoming erratic as I felt them cry along with me.

Fuck. I hated him.

Hated him for never allowing me to ever really hate him.

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

MASTERLIST

Chapters : 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05(M) | 06(M) | 07

AN: I think writing this story was my way of coping. My logical, reasonable mind is completely aware that Jin (and the rest of the guys) going into the military is normal. Dozens of other idols have done this; Jin is no different. When the news was released about a month ago, I was sad but my brain took over and settled me down. Now that the day is finally here, I'm all into my damn emotions. Logic be damned. It sucks.

I adore this man. He's a complete stranger, but it's pretty incredible the impact he's had on me.

Ok, enough talk about feels. Thank you to everyone who has given this story a chance. I wanted to keep it short and simple in honor of Kim Seokjin. Hope you enjoyed it. Please like or comment!🥰

All the best to Mr. Kim Seokjin who I actually have nothing but love for. There is ZERO hate for that man. 💜💗💜💗💜💗💜💗💜

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