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reality-imagined · 4 years

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Getaway Car - Peter Parker

Young Adult!Peter Parker x Agent!Reader

Based on Getaway Car by Taylor Swift, I suggest listening to it before to get in to the ~tone~ of what’s going on. Also, Endgame never happened, goodbye.

Word Count: 8.5k

Rating: T+

Warnings: Violence, Use of guns, Hints of murder?, Maybe slowburn?, romance

Synopsis: Peter (who is 23 now) is struggling to find his footing in the team now that he’s older and he’s tired of being the kid damn it. Peter decides his next mission is going to change how his team views him, but things never work out just how he plans, does it?

I’ve been sitting on this since I first heard the song, and I’ve been itching to post it! xx

It had taken some time for the other members of the team to start taking Peter seriously, and even though they regarded him with a little more respect, they couldn’t help but still see the youth around his eyes. A facial feature they often used to fuel their jokes. Peter understood that it came from a good place, a place of caring and inclusion, but it didn’t reduce the sting any less. They praised him like a child when he achieved even the smallest task, making him feel (childlike). But even worse, any mistake he made was highlighted and turned into a lengthy lecture by each member - scolding him to be diligent and be more “mature.” They often blamed his age and lack of experience, completely missing the fact that these lectures did not assist Peter in his training at all. Only infuriated him, particularly when another member made a similar mistake, but was only brushed off by the others as “bad luck.”

Nonetheless, he worked overtime, harder, and more diligently to try to get the team to see him as more than just the youngest Avenger. He took on all the missions he could, small or large, to add more experience to his resume. Maybe, just maybe, if he could catch up with the team on experience they would finally remove the “rookie” title from his name. He couldn’t remember the last time he actually took a weekend to enjoy things other 23 year olds enjoyed. At this point, Ned and MJ quit offering invites out, knowing Peter would relay that he had a “classified” mission to go on and wouldn’t be able to make - but next time, definitely. The best way to keep up with their friend, they found, was to check the headlines and new stations - Spider-Man saves the day once again! Peter wished the team would revere him as the media did.

So, when a file came across his spot at the team table for a solo mission, Peter didn’t even have to open the file before he agreed. A solo mission. If he could knock this out of the park, in record time, then this would be the moment they finally regarded him as a full-on member of team. This would be his ticket to the big leagues and meetings that only involved Steve, Natasha, Tony, Thor and Banner. He would finally be an Avenger not only to the world, but to the other Avengers as well.

He stayed up the entire night, memorizing the file and the target. It wasn’t a simple mission to say the least, but it wasn’t impossible. Despite his lack of recon experience, he figured a quick conversation with Nat would help him in this area and he’d set course to Vienna by the end of the week.

Ned’s birthday dinner would just have to be rescheduled.

Y/n couldn’t exactly remember what invited her into her line of work, whether it was the influence of her family or a set of specific skills she had somehow stumbled upon. Either way, her job was her life and there was rarely a mission she declined. She worked for many people, a lone ranger who swayed elegantly back and forth across the line of good and bad. Sure, the number of tasks on the ‘bad’ side outnumbered the opposite tremendously, but she did experience being the good guy every now and then. She found that those jobs, where she saved the day, tended be more difficult anyway. Y/n by no means regarded herself as a hero or vigilante, just a girl trying to make a living and hopefully cash out on a beach somewhere with a mojito in hand by the age of thirty-five.

She ignored the hype of the superhero’s that everyone seemed to talk about nowadays - the Avengers? Really, were they going to release a Christmas album this year? She scoffed at the idea of being a part of a team like that, and she was surprised when she first heard of Black Widow’s involvement. Y/n had once looked up to the lethal red-head, but now having seen her join the band of ironically-clad heroes, decided that she was quite opposite of Natasha Romanoff and should probably rely only on herself for motivation. She would never be good like them, even if she wanted to.

It didn’t take long for the news of a new-age, extra deadly nuclear weapon on the market to reach her ears. And not long after that, power ridden billionaires and dirty country leaders alike requesting her services. The highest bidder bought her out of course, and she pictured that sunny beach being closer in her future than she had originally planned. Even though she was only 23 and still had a bit of baby fat in her cheeks, she knew exactly how to infiltrate this particular wealth-monger and had a new persona and ID ready for her flight to Vienna in only a couple of hours.

She didn’t think this mission would take her all that long and she could practically taste the mint mojito on her tongue.

Establishing his identity as a possible buyer to the evil guy holding the future of the world in his expensive briefcase took a lot longer than Peter had expected. He wasn’t used to being so exposed on the field, even if his mask was his only missing accessory. The thought that someone would recognize him, even with the possibility of that being in the negative percentage range, still had him on edge any time he met with another individual who got him closer and closer to his target.

Peter was thankful that the extra missions and time spent training with Steve and Bucky, shaved off the extra teenage weight he had. It didn’t take long for his face to thin, his jawline to sharpen, and his body to become more lean. He had finally lost that awkward, teenage lank to his features and he blended in easily with the people around him. Peter managed to get his last contact to trust him enough to snag an invitation to an event held by his target. It was a lavish event in a ballroom nearly the size of the compound back home. People were dressed elegantly and Peter straightened out the lapel of his suit jacket once again, an expensive number that he happily charged to the team’s mission expenses.

Peter surveyed the area as discreetly as possible, missing the functions that his mask, which was tucked safely away into his jacket, gave him when it came to surveillance. He wondered briefly if Tony could mock up some glasses for him next time. By the look of the crowd, chatting idly to each other, he figured that the target had yet to arrive. He wished he was more skilled in the social aspect of recon, his socially awkward tendencies once again coming up to bit him on the ass. Making way to the bar, he politely- and clumsily- excused himself as he nudged people from his path. Suddenly becoming anxious at the thought that his falling demeanor would give away his intentions.

Y/n stirred the drink in front of her gently, a small, polite smile on her face as she looked over the crowd. She already knew her target wasn’t here just yet. She had spent the evening in his lavish penthouse the day before and new of his schedule for the day. She had played dumb and innocent when he said he had meetings to go to before he would meet her at the party. The bug she placed on the lapel of his jacket as she passionately kissed him goodbye let her know that the last meeting with a buyer fell through and that the device she was after would be in attendance with him tonight. So, she donned a sparkly, gold number that was eye catching but allowed her to blend in with the people around her and sat herself at the bar as soon as she arrived. Smilingly gratefully the people that he had previously showed her off to, only to keep up the appearance. Inwardly grimacing and keeping the best smile she could. If she had to spend one more moment with the man and this twisted entourage, she would blow her cover and his head.

She was about to stand, the sleek watch on her wrist letting her know that her target was approaching the ballroom. The sight of a man, likely around her own age, stumbling up the bar, halted her movements. He dropped down on the stool with tense shoulders and a bead of sweat on his temple. His eyes scanned his surroundings before shooting his head to the bar tender who asked what he would like. The man visibly faltered and Y/n could instantly tell that he was new to the game that she herself, was currently playing as well.

“He’ll have an old fashion.” her voice spoke without her mind’s permission. The bartender replied a quiet ‘yes ma’am’ and began preparing a drink that matched the one she still stirred with a little red straw. The man before her stared at her with wide, startled eyes, body tense and almost ready to spring from his seat and run. “Camille.” She smiled, her fake name falling from her lips as elegantly as if it were her own, a gentle hand rising for him to shake. He stared down at her hand, before he seemed to snap out of reverie and quickly grasp her hand in an awkward shake.

He didn’t know what to do. He hadn’t expected someone to talk to him while he was here. She was beautiful, gorgeous even, and he only wished the confidence that exuded from her was contagious. By the look in her eye, he could tell she was picking up on his nervousness. It was at this point, mid-thought, he realized her hand was still in front of him, so he quickly grasped it. Flinching at his own awkward movements and released her hand from his jerky grasp as quickly as he held it.

She raised a manicured eyebrow at him, and he quickly realized he never gave her his own name. “Pe, I mean, Paul.” He tried not to show the mistake on his face and only inwardly grimace at his own stutter. He had picked out a cool undercover name before setting out on this mission, but found that he stuttered just has he had moments ago during his first task. Meaning that he was stuck with Paul.

“Paul.” She replied slowly, nodding with a small smile playing at his lips. He only hoped that she wasn’t all that perceptive and this was just her confident personality. Otherwise, his cover was blown and he’d have to hightail it back to the compound with his tail between his legs. “What brings you here Paul?” She smiled down at her drink before looking up at him. Social awkwardness once again kicking in as her beauty was getting the best of him. His imaginative James Bond ego quivering and failing him as he sat staring at her. He hadn’t even noticed the bartender place his drink in front of him. An old fashion? What a suave drink to order, he’d never had one and would’ve never thought of it. He felt that the drink was her own version of a vodka martini, shaken not stirred.

She hadn’t intended to play with him like she was, a cat toying at the mouse. She couldn’t help it. His cover was increasingly crumbling and he had a handsome face behind the worried eyebrows and sheen of sweat on his forehead. His fake name wasn’t all that bad, but by the grimace and his stutter she knew that it wasn’t the one he had planned. She briefly considered calling him out and asking him with his other name was supposed to be. But that would end her little game and that wouldn’t be fun. Besides, her target had already walked in and was in a deep conversation across the room. She could toy with the handsome man in front of her for a few moments longer.

It took him an alarmingly long time to reply to her questions and she couldn’t help but wonder how in the world he had gotten this far with his lack of experience. “I uhm, work.” he managed before taking a deep gulp of the drink she had ordered him. She let out a giggled as she witnessed him trying not to cough of the tart taste. She nodded, taking a sip of her own drink and sparing a glance at her target.

He noticed and followed her gaze, his eyes comically widening as he landed on the man she was surveying. Ah ha, so they were after the same person. Her competitiveness tried to rear its ugly head, but she kept calm. A smile spreading on her lips as he looked back at her, eyes not as wide but still holding alarm. She wished she could tell him that he was being so transparent. He was lucky to have stumbled upon her, had any other informant witnessed what she was - they’d have ended him before he could have even sat down. Competition in this line of work always ended with the opponent last’s breath and had the curve of his jaw not enticed her, then this scenario would’ve played out differently. It wasn’t her place to advise him, however. He wasn’t a friend, colleague, or even a blimp on her professional radar. There was no telling who he worked for or the nature of his visit and the last thing she needed was to get caught up in the mess of an undercover whatever he was. Agent, would not have been a word she used to describe him.

His mind whirred with the realization that she was gazing at his target, with calculated eyes. She gave off vibes that were similar to other agents he had been around, but she couldn’t possibly be undercover? A girl who looked like that? She couldn’t have been any older than him, but her face was hardened with the life of operations, he realized. Not like Natasha’s or any of his other members, though. There was an innocence, but also edge, that held her posture. Maybe she was undercover and she was that good. He didn’t know what to do or say, the alcohol from his drink pooling in his stomach. Instantly regretting never taking Thor up on his offer of Asgaurdian liquor to build up his tolerance. Her glass was empty and by the way the bartender quickly retrieved the glass and replaced it with another indicated that it wasn’t her first drink of the night.

He had no idea how to proceed, her eyes were watching him and he felt that his every move was being scrutinized. He felt vulnerable, despite the technologically advanced suit that clung to his skin beneath the expensive tuxedo. He thought briefly about pulling out his phone and dialing for backup. After weeks of working towards this event, everything he had achieved began crumbling down before this beautiful girl with an agenda of her own.

No, he wasn’t going to let a pretty face ruin his chances of earning the respect of his team. He wasn’t about to call the team to come rescue his ass because he knew he’d never hear the end of it. He was going to see this through, even it meant having to take out the girl who was still smiling at him. That thought made the alcohol in his stomach churn harder.

She was running out of time. She wanted him to make the first move, curiosity getting the best of her and momentarily causing her to lose focus of her task. But he was taking too long and her target was talking to a buyer that she knew would seal the deal and she needed to start planning her tactic on how to get her target and the briefcase alone. His eyebrows furrowed and she could tell he was gathering he thoughts to speak, but a window of opportunity opened, just as her target walked into view just beyond ‘Paul’s’ head.

Y/n tried not to sound to rushed, but she knew her, “If you’ll excuse me” was too harsh and she could feel his eyes on her retreating figure. She put emphasizes on her hips, whether it was for the man at the bar or the man she was approaching - she wasn’t quite sure, but secretly hoped that it had grabbed both of their attention.

“Have you had a nice evening?” She spoke in a smooth voice that sounded nothing like her natural one. Placing a gentle hand on the upper arm of the man she had been seducing for the past few weeks. He smirked down at her, attempting to sultry in nature, but she found nothing about this man attractive. Not like the man who she had spoken to at the bar. She inwardly chided herself for getting distracted so easily.

She only gave him enough attention to leave him wanting more, suggesting about wanting to see him ‘in private’ for a moment, voice full of seduction as her hand sliding down his arm to his own. This would be her moment to grab the briefcase and make a fast getaway. She briefly hoped that ‘Paul’ wouldn’t get in to too much trouble for not accomplishing his mission. The man agreed, pulling her towards a nearby door. She looked over her shoulder, curious to see If he was still there. And he was, now standing, watching with wide eyes. she couldn’t help it, as she pulled the door closed - she sent him a wink and cheeky smile.

‘Camille’ - 1

‘Paul’ - 0

No, no no no no. NO. Oh God, no. I really fucked up. No! SHIT.

Peter quit attempting to mask his anxiousness as the girl and the briefcase disappeared behind a door guarded by two men nearly twice his size. How could he just let himself get distracted? Let the mission get away from him like that? What was he thinking? His inner voice sounded eerily like Steve’s as he chided himself for being so naive. He tried mapping out a scenario to get into the room. Maybe there was a window? He was about to sprint to a bathroom to don his mask. Maybe Karen could scope out the scene and give him some advice. But before he could even move an inch, chaos broke out.

The door his eyes somehow were still trained on busts open, guns being pulled out from random places and random people. Shots ringing out in different directions. Party goers who were just bystanders ducking and screaming. He watched as she elegantly avoided attacks, brief case clutched in her hand as she used it to defend herself and seek an exit. He tried not to focus too much on the blood that stained her gold dress. He could tell that she was struggling to get out of the sea of chaos, her eyes jotting around the room wildly as she fought gracefully and skillfully that wound have Natasha praising her movements.

Peter found himself jumping across the bar to a near window - busting it out with elbow and easily jumping to ground beneath him. He tried to think too much about his plans suddenly altered to aiding the beautiful girl in the gold dress.

Just make it to the door, just make it to the door. Y/n’s voce sang in her head and she weaved and battled her way through the chaos. She wished she had packed more than the small hand gun clasped in her other hand. It had been useful for injuring her target enough to retrieve the briefcase but now, she wished she had more heavy artillery. It took longer than she had wished for her to reach the door, hoping that backup had not yet been called her path to the car would be easy and quick.

She found the opposite as she kicked open the doors. The lavish driveway before her was nearly filled with more agents, all after the silver briefcase in her hand. She surveyed the scenarios, trying to find the quickest way out but fell short as more attackers came trudging her way, bullets starting to fire out in her direction. She was so focused on her next move she hadn’t yet noticed the sleek black Audi revving up towards her. Not until it was stopped in front of her.

Y/n’s hand rose the gun up to aim at the driver, deciding that taking the car was her best option at the point but she faltered as she realized who was staring down the barrel. His hand was raised in surrender as he opened the door across from him, other hand steadily on the wheel, bot flinching at the sound of bullets ricocheting off the exterior of his car. Everything in her past and all the training she had received told her this was a bad idea, that she could not possibly trust this man she had only meet moments ago at the bar. But as agents started to descend upon them at a faster rate, her options were limited and all it took was his sincere, “I’ve got you.” to get her to drop into the car.

Her door was barely shut before he revved the engine and speed off, dust and debris flying up being the wheels, a rapid sound of bullets dinging as they drove away. It was then she noticed that the car was somehow bulletproof and her stomach fell at the idea that maybe Paul was more high level than she had thought. She clutched the briefcase to the side opposite of him just in case, hand on the door, ready to open it and roll out. A sudden outburst of laughter cause her to stop, looking over at him with concern.

His face was lit up with a smile and his eyes crinkled as he let out his chuckle, “Well that’s not how I planned this day to go. What about you?” He looked over at her, smile still on his face. She didn’t know how to react; she had never see someone look so… so beautiful and naturally happy. His laugh was contagious and she found herself breaking out into a smile of its own volition.

“Not exactly.” She replied in a small voice. She knew she needed to ask about his next play, next move, what he thought was about to happen. But she didn’t want to. Not yet, at least. For the first time in her life she was enjoying a wholesome moment, where, despite the circumstance, she felt connected to another human being for once in her very short life.

Peter knew he needed to tell her that he was going to have to take that briefcase, that the world depended on it. But he couldn’t say anything just yet. He liked the way she smiled at him, how her eyes seemed to light up when they met his own. Despite his many infield successes, for the first time he felt that he had done something right. He had made his own decision for once, not based on what he thought the team would praise him for, but what he wanted to do. Peter didn’t regret his decision one bit, at least not in this moment.

Camille’s silence gave him hope that she was trying to hold onto to this moment as well. He wasn’t sure of the destination, or what would happen next. All he knew was that he was going to continuing driving as far as he could, as long as she stayed right there in his passenger seat.

“We need to get rid of this car.” She spoke quietly, looking out her passenger window. We, he thought looking between her and the road quickly. “They’ll try to track us down. I wasn’t able to… extinguish the target. He’s going to come after us.” She added, looking over at him. Hesitancy filled her eyes but he didn’t hesitate to agree. Even though Peter knew that this was going to end in one way, he decided that the right decision could wait just a little bit longer.

“I know a buyer that will cash out enough for both of us to profit.” Peter spoke, not sure where this idea had come from but just fleeting enough to decide that it was his best option. She didn’t reply instantly; he had broken the veil that she had put over situation. Forgetting about what brought her into the car and the cold metal of the briefcase seeping through her dress on to her skin.

“We can talk logistics later. Let’s… figure out how to lose our tail.”

He nodded in agreement and while they sat in silence, their minds are screaming.

A night, turned into two days, and two days morphed into a week.

She had never had a partner before, romantically or professionally. Yet, she adjusted to Paul’s presence rapidly and tried not to let that scare her too much. In the past, very little scared her. But the way her heart thumped when he smiled at her, frightened Y/n. It was all unrealistic, meeting him at a bar where they were both undercover - after the same prize. But she somehow found comfort in knowing that maybe his past was just as murky as her own. She began to trust him; feelings began to bloom in the most unlikely of circumstances. She felt free, untethered to her past. It was liberating, beautiful, and terrifying.

They were at a gas station, filling up the car that Paul had hotwired only hours before - their 3rd car in their trek to no-where. She was grabbing snacks, finding out that he had a rather childish palette and also discovering that maybe she had grown to be too uptight for her age. Somehow, the scared look on the cashier’s face didn’t alert her. Y/n never noticed them reaching for the telephone, a picture of her face plastered on the television behind the counter. WANTED in big red letters. She didn’t notice until it was too late - until he was busting in the door, yelling for her.

Instincts kicked in, she reached across the counter - grabbing the collar of the poor workingman and bashed his head in to the hard surface between them. Anger getting the best of her before she gathered as much of the junk food in her arms, dashing out behind Paul who looked shocked at her actions. She tried not to think about that too much. Sirens were getting closer and she could see the lights getting brighter. It felt as if it was taking him twice as long to get the engine started. Sparks flying for the stripped wires underneath the steering wheel as he desperately tried to get the car moving. She heard the bell of the station’s door ring - the telltale sound of a shotgun being loaded.

“go go GO.” she screamed, in time with the sound of the engine bursting to life. His foot immediately in the gas, dust flying up behind them as he maneuvered the car unto the road again. Siren closer than ever - blue and red lighting up the darkened interior of the car. The shotgun rang, but missed.

He was running from the police now. He was an Avenger, and he was running from the police. His moral compass was begging for him to stop this, but something in his heart told him to keep going. See how this played out, it would be worth it. He tried to remind himself of that. He managed to lose the police, and with directions from Camille, they found a new car and decided it would be best to turn in for the night. The sound of the shower was the only thing that filled the room as he sat at the edge of the bed. Phone in one hand, heart in the other, starting at his hazy reflection in the severely outdated boxed TV.

He could call his team right now, and they would fix everything. It would be simple and quick, painless even. He had almost convinced himself to do it. The pros outweighed the cons and this would be the right thing to do. But the sound of the shower brought him back to the moment, his thoughts flooding with the idea of her. Her. The girl who had consumed his conscious for the past 9 days. The girl who he knew nothing about, but felt everything for. He could see the life and the world in her eyes. The girl who had him rethinking his choices, who he was as a person. He had gone against every single one of his morals, but had never felt more free.

He acted as if he wasn’t lying to himself.

Her phone rang out a gentle tune just as she was about to get in the dingy motel shower. Hopes that the warm water would give her clarity on her next move. She couldn’t think straight in his presence. Never once had she formulated a plan that wouldn’t only benefit herself, but she found all her ideas ensured his safety - even if it meant risking her own.

She didn’t say hello, only answers the blocked number and placed the phone to her ear. Eyes locked on her reflection in the mirror. The voice on the other end caused her pulse to ring in her ears.

“I will find you.” The voice of her vengeful target hissed, “You’ve forgotten the power I have. The length of my reach. You will never be safe. I will get my property.”

She couldn’t think of a reply, the idea of letting Paul know was her first thought - but she immediately pushed that idea away as quickly as it came.

“Then make a deal.” She replied quietly, hoping the shower masked the sound of her voice. She knew she was in no place to bargain, but it wasn’t in her nature to turn over easily.

A harsh laugh echoed through the receiver, “You will give me my property and I will consider letting you live.”

“You forget that you have no idea who I really am. The reach that I have. I could end you, no matter who you’ve poisoned with your money. Did you think I was like those other girls you like to parade on your arm? Oh, baby, I am the best and worst thing you’ll ever have. I could end you in seconds.” She hissed, letting all the pent-up emotions she had kept to herself unleash. “I’ve kept this going because I like this little jet-set Bonnie and Clyde thing that’s going on right now. It’s entertaining… but I get bored real easy. And the last thing you want me to do is get bored.”

He didn’t reply instantly. Sat there in silence, mind probably going wild trying to worm his way out of this one while she stood there confidently. Reflection smirking back at her as she waited for him to catch her bait. She couldn’t live up to any of those threats, but what he doesn’t know will make her rich. After a few more beats, a quiet and defeated, “What do you want?” came through.

She smiled wickedly at her own success. “I want 1.2 million wired to an account in the Caribbean’s and 250k in cash at the drop off. You and I both know that I’m cutting you a deal.”

And she was, really. The highest bidder, and the reason she was even in this mess, had offered 2.3 billion for the retrieval of the item. The small device had that much power and a small part of her, the part that she referred to as still being human, felt that maybe she should to turn over to the good guys. She imaged that those Avengers guys would know what to do with it.

But 1.4 million was more than enough for her to sit her ass on beach for a couple of years. She had a fleeting thought of asking him to join her.

There was silence, as he thought over her demands. Neither of them wanted to budge, but he was the desperate one now.

“I will send you a location and you will be there within 24 hours.” came the hoarse words from the other side of the line. She had ruined this man with only a few minutes of her time. It made her feel powerful.

“One last thing.” she tried to keep her voice from wavering, “My partner walks free.”

“I didn’t call you to get a lecture. I called you get help.” Peter spoke quietly, standing outside the motel door. Eyes zeroed in on the slight crack he’d left open in the door to see when she came out of the shower. His heart was pounding and was regretting his choices in the past 4 minutes.

“This is really bad kid.”

“Yeah, Steve. I know. But I- I don’t have an excuse, okay? I did what I did and now I need you to help me.” Peter was all but pleading, irritation growing in his veins. Why wouldn’t he just agree to help already? It wasn’t like Captain America was one to leave a friend in need. I mean look at what he did for Bucky all those years ago. He could easily help Peter out with this, why was Steve hesitating?

“Who is she? Who does she work for?”

“None of that matters. Just know we’re leaving in the morning and I’ll tell you where- “

“You know I’m going to have to bring her in Peter. She’s a felon and-”

“And so am I as of 9 days ago.” Peter hissed back, defenses coming up to protect a girl he barely knew. He should’ve called Tony, he chided, listening closer into the room to make sure he hadn’t heard the shower turn off. He thought his enhanced ears could hear her talking, but it had only taken one night for him to realize she liked to softly hum in the shower. He couldn’t control his wide smile when he came across that little quirk.

“You’re a kid and you make mist- “

“You’re lecturing again.” Peter deadpanned.

Steve sighed, thumb and pointer finger pinching the bridge of his nose tight as he tried to sort this out in his mind. Thankfully no one knew exactly who Peter was, so if he made this quick and low-radar, then there would be little to no knowledge of Peter’s position as an accomplice. When Peter explained that he was with the girl who Steve had seen on the news, Steve suddenly felt his age kick in as his heart began beating out of his chest. What was the kid thinking? Of course, media and information systems didn’t know much about her, and even with recruiting Nat to get intel, still very little came up. But, there was just enough out there to know that she dealt the same services that Romanoff had once dealt herself.

“Send me your location tomorrow. Nat and I will be on standby.”

Peter felt the weight of the world on his shoulder fall off, his shoulder visibly slumping with relief. The shower turned off only seconds later.

“Steve - one last thing.”

“Yeah, kid?”

“You’ve gotta let her go.”

The gradual light coming through the cheap curtains woke her up first. The dusty room congesting her nose and making eyes itch. She turned over, noting that Peter was facing her - but still fast asleep. She had grown used to sharing a bed with him, she almost found… comfort in the heat that his body created under blankets. Keeping her usually cold feet warm for once. She peered at him, the sunlight behind him making his brown hair glow lighter. She wondered how crystal his eyes would look in sunlight. Not that she didn’t find his happy eyes already one of his best features. His face was relaxed and there was a small snore that resounded as his chest expanded with his breath.

She used to find that annoying with the other men she had been with, but with him, she found it endearing and grounding as she tried to fall asleep herself. She was wrecked. Her world turned upside in a way she had never anticipated. She had no family, or friends. She didn’t have personal connections that kept her in one place. But his presence made her want to be still for once. To enjoy moments like the sunset or a good movie on TV, commercials and all. She was finding contentment in the simple things, things that often bored or disinterested her, and it scared her.

His phone buzzed crossed the room and his eyes opened immediately with sound. She noticed that he had an ability to react before her, see things she couldn’t quite, and even pick out some noises she had never noticed. He heard sirens several moments before her hears could even try to pick up a sound. She figured that’s why whoever worked for chose him, despite his lack of experience, for the job. Y/n didn’t try to play off that she wasn’t looking at him, opting to give him a small smile and continue to study his face. She couldn’t read his emotions, but she could tell he was in deep thought, despite having only woken moments before. A small crease between his eyebrows.

It wasn’t until she noticed him subtly shifting closer to her that she pinned where exactly his thought might be. For the first time, she felt nervous about someone kissing her. Heart thumping as he neared, his eyes darting across her face to try and detect any hesitation. There was none on her features and she wasn’t opposed to the idea, but all these feelings she had felt, and tried to push away. She wasn’t sure what a kiss would mean to them. Y/n made no effort to stop him, even moving closer as well, hoping that he would take the move. Because for the first time in her life, she let someone else make the decision.

His nose nudged against hers gently, her eyes falling shut at the soft caress. She felt his thumb at her chin, tilting her head up slightly before placing his lips against her own. It was soft, and sweet, and gentle. A kiss she had never experienced before, one that made her chest feel hallow and full at all at once. That made her hands tremble and body calm. He continued to kiss her like she was fragile, and even thought she was the farthest thing from it, Y/n enjoyed being treated that way, cared for that way. Her hands came up to his neck, pulling her body closer to his, legs intertwining. Neither of them had the intention of going further, this felt more intimate than any other experience either of them had ever had.

Camille pulled away from him with a gasp, his eyes opened to find hers still closed, taking in the moment. Something about the way she looked that morning, peaceful, controlled, had all those emotions he had been pushing away come back into reality. He was nervous she would reject him, which he had experience more than enough of in his lifetime. But she didn’t falter as he moved closer and it gave him all the confidence in the world. Neither of them spoke, even after she opened her eyes to look back them. Voices trapped somewhere between their heart and mouth, unsure what to say, but wanting to say everything all at once.

His phone went off again, jolting him back to reality. Back to the realization that more existed outside of this dingy motel room and this moment with her. The weight of it on his shoulders once again, he only hoped she didn’t noticed the change in him. He gently rubbed his thumb across her bottom lip, before forcing himself to move away. She didn’t say anything, only moved to get up as well. The air in the room felt still, calm but at the same time a tinge of something that could build up to tension. Peter felt content in himself and with her, but everything beyond that door, that is what made him anxious and unsure.

Little is spoken between them as they gather their things, Peter saying that they need to get a move on. She follows along, neither agreeing or protesting. He wondered vaguely about her lack of communication. The past few days she had spoken up about his decisions, particularly those she disagreed on, but always let him know her thoughts. The radio silence worried him slightly, but he tried to push that way. There were much bigger things for him to worry about.

Y/n received the drop-off location about the same time that Peter got up to answer his own phone. It was a nicer hotel that had amenities like a bar and indoor pool. She rolled her eyes, of course the target would choose a location with a high rate of witnesses. She had wanted as little fallout as she could get, this was going to be a little more difficult that she had anticipated. Peter’s voice saying that they should probably get going brought her back into the room. Her thoughts still clouded her brain, strategies, exit points, things she often had a few days to prepare for, swimming around her head. She complied, not saying anything. Only stuffing her few things into duffel bag, they stole from a gas station a few days back and followed him out of the door.

The had been on the road for 5 hours now, when she decided to speak up. “I think I found a good hotel for us to stop at?” She flashed him her phone briefly, just enough for him to glance at before looking back at the road. One hand firmly on the wheel, the other on the gear shift. She briefly thought back to first time their stolen ride wasn’t an automatic and Peter became flustered behind the wheel, hands shifting sporadically everywhere, eyes darting about because it had been 10 minutes since they broke in and they still hadn’t drove away. She had been able to control her laughter just enough to direct him in out to get the car moving without flooding the engine, and proceeded to give him tips as he tore out of the parking lot. Peter was still red faced for 3 hours after. He looked almost proficient driving now, shifting gears smoothly and precise. Her eyes trailed over him, shamelessly checking him out before turning back to her phone.

Peter pretended not to notice, but a small smirk graced his lips despite it. She pretended not to notice.

“That looks a bit expensive.” He muttered.

She tried to stay nonchalant, if she showed a desperation to stay there - it might tip him off. “I think we deserve a nice bed and a bath in a hotel that’s actually clean for a night, don’t you?” She turned on her charm, as guilty as it made her feel. Never once had she manipulated him in the time they spent together since the Gala. It made her heart break to see him react like she wanted him to as she trailed her nails lightly up the forearm resting on the console between them.

He audibly gulped, “Y-yeah. I guess you’re right.”

She had to look out her window to hid the frown that fell on her lips. For once she felt guilty in doing her job, for once she felt dirty. He deserved more than coy smiles and deceit. He was making her soft, and she couldn’t tell if she hated it or loved it.

They made it to the drop site with 2 hours to spare, it was earlier than Y/n had expected but she became grateful at seeing just how busy this hotel was. She needed to strategize and it didn’t help that the lady at the front desk told them they’d have to wait another hour before their room was ready.

“Please enjoy our bar. One complimentary drink on us for your wait.”

Y/n could practically feel the anxiety radiating off Peter as they sat themselves at the bar. The irony of it didn’t go unnoticed to her. Even more so when Peter passed the drink voucher to the bartender and ordered an old fashioned. She smiled at him and laughed lightly, looking at her with an emotion that made her stomach flutter. She went to say something, but her phone vibrated in her jacket pocket. She excused herself to the bathroom, pausing for a moment to take him in. The way his curly hair framed his face, particularly that one curl that always stayed in his face. The way his brows scrunched as he concentrated on the TV across from them. The way his mouth looked as he took a drink of the old fashion. She wanted to remember him like this, not the face of disappointment and betrayal that he would have by the end of this.

She was hoping, praying, everything and above, that this would be last time she would see him. Before she could stop herself, she gently grabbed his chin after he set the drink down, turning his face to hers. She had caught off-guard, his eyebrows furrowing with concern as he noticed the inevitable look on her face. She tried to hide it, but she knew she was failing. She gave him a small smile in attempt to soothe his thoughts. She pulled him close, placing a gentle kiss on his lips, then his cheek before pulling away.

“Don’t wait for me.” She whispered, before getting up to leave.

He laughed lightly, slightly confused but called after her that he’ll find her when the room is ready. She didn’t reply, but kept walking. Tears in her eyes and throat and chest constricted as she kept a sob locked down.

Peter watches her walk away, noting that he steps look heavier than usual. Concern enters his mind but doesn’t have time to linger as his phone goes off on the bar infant of him. It’s Steve, saying their arrival is less than 5 minutes. He’s grateful that she’s not here, meaning he sneak out with the briefcase that holds the device. He hoped he would be able to see her one more time before he had to leave, but he doubted that would happen. He was lost in his thoughts of her when gun fire deafened his heightened hearing. He reached for his ears before jumping into action. People in the lobby were scattering.

Gun fire was going off from two ends of the hotel. Peter recognized the uniforms of some, others looked like civilians carrying military grade weapons. It was a set up. Peter panicked, calling out for Camille and attempting to go in her direction. A firm hand stopped him,

“Where’s the device?” Steve’s voice was firm, but there was a relief sound to it. The kid had made it out unscathed and even though shit was hitting the fan, Peter wasn’t in the crosshairs. Peter spun to wear the briefcase had been tucked at his feet at the bar, but faltered when he realized it was gone. He paled, trying to retrace everything. His eyes fell on Steve when he realized… “Where’d she go?” The relief in Steve’s was gone, his face was hard and he was now in mission mode. Peter fumbled but couldn’t make words. How could she? Why would she? Is the reason that-? Steve didn’t wait for an answer, pushing Peter of the way so he could set off on tearing the place apart to find her. Peter knew he wouldn’t though.

Chaos was erupting around him, but all he could do was sit back down at the bar. Defeated, hopeless, lost. He reached for the old fashion and downed in one go.

Another hand on placed itself on his shoulder and Peter spun around to get ready to argue with Steve, but stopped in place.

“You’ve got a lot of explaining to do, Paul.” the mask of the Iron Man suit lifting away to reveal a tired and irritated Tony.

“How’d you- Did Steve?”

Tony started fiddling with a blueprint of the hotel, heat signature popping up and showing a crowded room on the 8th floor. “Your girlfriend called.” Was all he said before jetting off in the direction of 803, what was to be his and Camille’s bedroom.

It happened all too fast. Before Y/n knew it, guns were going off and she was fighting 10 men on her own. She took down the target in one movement, leaving him bleeding on the floor and his men scattering for revenge. What she wasn’t aware of was the onslaught of S.H.I.E.L.D. tactical teams barging in on the place. She had called Stark Industries, at their last gas station stop. Leaving a voicemail with a very concerned lady that detailed what was about to down, telling them that no matter what - her accomplice had nothing to do with anything and he knew nothing.

Y/n knew not to trust the target, and knew that she couldn’t return this device to him. She kind of liked this stupid planet she lived on, and didn’t want to see it’s destruction in her time. She only hoped that the Avengers would go easy on Paul. She had to leave him there to get away herself. And that left knots in her stomach but traitors like them never win. She managed to grab the money bag and, just as an explosion happened at the hotel door, shoot out the window of the room. Escaping just as Tony and Steve, equally surprised to see the other’s presence, enter the room to see the men she had taken out.

It took Peter a moment for his brain to catch up with his body as he darted after Tony. His stealth suit coming in handy underneath his clothes. It didn’t take him long to catch up, but he was frozen in place as soon as he arrived. The room was trashed, bodies lying across the floor. Tony and Steve stood beside the bed, the briefcase Peter recognized that was supposed to have the device between them, opened. They looked at him, waiting for his move.

Peter stepped up to the bed to find the device still safely tucked away, a note taped to it.

“I’m sorry” scrawled in quick but neat letters.

Tony nor Steve spoke as Steve gathered the suitcase, closing it, and then putting it their own protection case. They left, Tony gently patting Peter as he stood there, staring at the note in his hand.

#adult!peter parker #peter parker x reader #peter parker fic #mcu peter parker x reader #marvel fic

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n0-eyedtaissa · 4 years

Note

37. “Ow! What did I do this time?!” Ruthie and Dante

Dante always laughed a lot more when his cousin Romeo was around. In part it was because he was a nice kid, sure, Dante and Romeo like enough of the same stuff that conversation flowed pretty easy between the two of them and their jokes always toed the line until one was slugging the other in the shoulder for going too far. That aspect aside though, Dante liked to watch Ruthie when Romeo was around. He thought it was funny that she tried a little harder, taming back her wild hair and throwing on a smear of red lipstick. When Romeo Fogarty was around, Ruthie sat up straighter, she let the straps of her tank top fall over her skinny arm to show off her tan lines. And it wasn’t like Dante didn’t think Ruthie was pretty, sure he did, but she was family over anything else and the two of them were okay with that. Dante liked to tease Ruthie about it, her little crush on Romeo. And Dante especially liked the reaction he got out of her, how she’d blush and swear profusely at him, giving him a shove while he laughs.

When Ruthie, Dante, and the rest of their old Southside High crew turn into the gates beyond Sunnyside Trailer Park, Dante pipes up suddenly:

“Oh hey, and Romeo’s comin’ over for dinner this weekend so Abuela said all y’all are invited to dinner Saturday” Dante says as he walks up the front steps to the Soh-Peterson household, waiting for Ruthie to unlock the front door.

“What’s the occasion?” Ruthie asks, trying not to sound intrigued as she opens the front door and immediately collapses into her favorite spot on the green couch.

Dante laughs at her poor attempt at being coy but he’s recognize that glint in her eye anywhere. “He got a promotion at the coffee shop”. Spyder, a long time friend of Dante’s, nods stoically in support before heading over to the refrigerator to rifle through the tupperware containers of leftovers from dinners Ruthie made but couldn’t be bothered to eat all of.

“’S there a dress code? We talkin’ black-tie formal? Business casual? A man’s gotta know what to wear, D” asks CD Rhodes, another long-time friend and part-time annoyance of Dante’s.

“I don’t fuckin’ know, bro, but my Abuela did say for you not to wear that shirt of yours she doesn’t like.” Dante raises a quizzical eyebrow as he sits down on the floor with his back against the couch, pulling his backpack into his lap to retrieve the baggie of weed he bough that morning before third period in order to roll a joint.

“And what shirt is that?” CD responds, eyes going wide at the thought of ending up on Maria Fogarty’s bad side. The young man falls back onto the worn green couch, his head in Ruthie’s lap and his feet dangling near Dante’s head.

“Ion know but you better figure it out before you come over my damn house” Dante says seriously, eyes already going heavy after only taking a few hits off the joint he rolled successfully. CD conspiratorily swings one of his converse-covered feet in Dante’s direction and Dante slaps his friend’s foot away with a chuckle and a muffled swear.

“No special instructions from Abuela from me?” Ruthie laughs through a cloud of her cigarette smoke. “She need me to bring anything?”

“She’s been cookin’ up a storm for two days now, I don’t think there’s anything you could bring that she doesn't already have” Dante hands the joint over to Ruthie, who swaps him for her cigarette. “Don’t worry about it, Ruthless. It’s a party for Romeo anyways, just go wax your eyebrows or whatever you girls do to make yourselves look nice”

Ruthie slaps a hand over her forehead, feeling insecure now, “Dante what’s wrong with my eyebrows?!” She demands an answer but when Dante doesn’t answer in time, she gets up quickly and marches over the bathroom, slamming the door shut behind her.

CD sends a rough, swift kick at Dante’s shoulder. “Ow! What did I do this time?!”

“You know she likes him, man, don’t embarrass her...” CD trails off and it seems like both him and Dante are taken aback by his sudden lapse in good character.

When Saturday finally rolled around, the Fogarty residence was awash in warm smells of multiple dishes being cooked and warmed up all at once. There was a pot on every burner and Maria had the crockpot going as well, making all of Romeo’s favorite foods, as well as some crowd pleasers. Dante took the truck up to Centerville with CD for a keg run with Spyder, who was the only one out of everyone who’s fake ID actually seemed believable. It took CD about an hour to get dressed, trying his best to find something suitable for his taste and Maria’s. He changes three times before deciding on a wrinkled black button-up and hoping for the best. Running into a similar problem on her end of the trailer park, Ruthie tosses her favorite pair of overalls aside and trades them in for something a bit nicer. She applies a coat of mascara and a coat of tinted chapstick before putting her shoes on and heading out the door.

The gravel under her shoes crunches rhythmically as Ruthie makes her way over to the Fogarty household, feeling nervous butterflies erupt in her stomach with every step closer. Walking up the front steps, Ruthie hesitates before knocking. In the entire time she’s known the Fogarty family, she’s never been nervous to knock on the front door and announce her presence, and that’s how she knows something’s different. She gives three shaky raps on the door and hopes that it’s enough noise to cut through the boisterous noise inside.

When Ruthie thinks she’s almost in the clear, when she thinks she can slink away from the door unheard and retreat back home for a little while longer, the door unlatches. Standing in front of her was none other than Romeo Fogarty, the very person she had be so nervous to see that evening. “Hey Shorty” He greets her, face breaking out into a brilliant smile that she can’t help but easily return.

“Hi” She says shyly, stepping over the threshold and putting an arm around him in an awkward half-hug. “Congrats on the promotion, assistant manager is a big deal”

Romeo shrugs off the comment humbly as he shuts the front door behind her. “Naw its nothin, Shorty, Irene has a soft spot for me anyways.”

“Don’t blame her,” Ruthie blurts out, trying to regain her composure she smiles up at him, her eyes bright and round and warm. Romeo pauses for a moment, like he was momentarily taken aback by Ruthie’s moment of brazenness. Just as he’s taking a moment to recover and come up with some sort of suave comment, there door bursts open and suddenly any sense of calm is gone, because Dante is barreling through the threshold with CD and Spyder not too far behind him, all three of them hollering about their dealings with the worker at the Centerville liquor store.

Dante notices Ruthie and Romeo making eyes at each other by the front door still and he grimaces, “Fuck, man, no flirting in the entry way, you two are nasty”. He shakes his head as he makes his way down the narrow hallway and to the kitchen, with CD and Spyder trailing behind him carrying the keg, all nervous tension suddenly forgotten. What Dante doesn’t see, however, was Romeo reaching for Ruthie’s hand, their fingers interlocking together.

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waltzofthewifi · 4 years

Text

Kota Chapter 26: That Afternoon

Master Post/Table of Contents

Marinette headed to the Liberty right after school.

Luka was in his bedroom, strumming his guitar and making notes on a notebook. He smiled when Marinette entered.

"Am I interrupting something?" Marinette asked.

"No," Luka replied. He placed his guitar gently against the wall and moved the notebook, inviting Marinette to sit on his bed with him.

Marinette sat down, place her bad against the bed and crossing her legs. Tikki flew out of her bag and settled on Marinette's leg.

"I'm glad you're doing this," Tikki said. "If you don't mind, I'll leave you two alone."

Luka nodded. "Juleka, Rose, and my mom are probably around, but feel free to look around."

"Thank you," Tikki said. She flew off, phasing through the wall.

"I think she has a good idea of the layout of the Liberty," Marinette said. "From all the time I spend here."

"It must be nice having her around," Luka said. "I've wanted to give Sass a tour."

Marinette nodded. "A lot of the temporary heroes have expressed similar wants. I'm starting to wonder if maybe I could leave the Miraculous with you longer, if only so you can bond with your kwami like me and Tikki are. I don't know what I would do without her."

"I would appreciate that," Luka said. "Are you ready to start our meditation lesson?"

Marinette nodded. "Ready."

"Close your eyes," Luka said.

Marinette obliged.

"Most meditation instruction tells you to clear your mind," Luka said. "I've never found that very helpful. Instead, I like to think of a simple melody. Either way works. I've always heard of people picturing waves or something else - just enough thought to focus on, without having your brain start wondering."

"Okay."

Marinette pictured a wave - which was easy to do, on a boat.

"Whatever it is should be calm," Luka continued. "Now, what I do is I tense then release each individual muscle, starting in my toes."

Luka continued talking Marinette through the exercise, and Marinette was surprised to find herself actually relaxing.

She hadn't even realized how tense her muscles were. She supposed, with everything going on, it wasn't a surprise how tense she'd become. It was like her body was being pulled taught.

Marinette rolled her shoulders, trying to relax her muscles.

It felt -

It felt like a dam was breaking.

A tear rolled down her cheek. Then another. And another.

Marinette wiped at her cheek with her sleeve.

"Are you alright?" Luka asked.

Marinette opened her eyes to see Luka staring at her in concern.

"Yeah it's - it's nothing." She took a shaky breath in. "I just - I didn't realize how much I - how tense I've been - I mean I-"

Luka grabbed her hand. "It's okay. You're allowed to cry."

"No I'm not!" Marinette pushed his hand away and wiped at another tear. "If I get akumatized-"

"You can cry without being akumatized," Luka replied. "I've watched several experts who say that crying can even help you not get akumatized."

"Wha - what do you mean?"

"Crying isn't causing a problem," Luka reasoned. "It's just releasing emotions. People say you get akumatized because you feel hopeless, like there's no escape - well, crying is a way for your emotions to escape."

Marinette sniffled. "I guess that makes sense." She sniffled again. "It feels like - sometimes -"

She didn't finish her sentence. Instead, Marinette buried her head in her hands and just cried.

Luka reached out and placed a hand on each of Marinette's arms. "It's okay."

Marinette nodded, and in a moment of pure instinct, reached out and engulfed Luka in a hug.

Lacy nervously watched the laundry machine, as if her stare would help clean her shirt. She was Aphrodite's daughter, shouldn't she have some magical un-staining power?

When her phone rang from the living room, Lacy finally moved from her watch post. She was surprised to see Chloe as the caller ID.

"Yes?" Lacy answered.

Chloe grinned evilly. "So remember the other day when me and Césaire went to the principle about Rossi?"

"Yeah?"

"Well, usually I could get her expelled, and instantly, but I'm trying to play nice," Chloe said. "But I was able to pull some strings."

"I thought you already got her detention?" Lacy questioned. "For threatening Adrien?"

"Yes, well, I did a little more," Chloe said. "Especially with the way she was picking on you today, trying to get you in trouble with Miss Bustier - as if! I don't think Bustier's given out more than a detention since Ivan was akumatized."

"What did you do?" Lacy asked.

"I got her moved to another class," Chloe said.

"Oh thank the gods," Lacy sighed. "Best news I've heard in a while!"

"I know, right? Who's awesome?"

"You are," Lacy replied. "Whose class is she going to be in now?"

"To Ms Mendeliev's - who is the most no non-sense teacher in the school. Rossi's lies will never fly with her."

"But she gets out of chemistry all the time?"

"Yeah, I guess. Either way, she's not in our class."

"Thank you, Chloe," Lacy said. "I do feel bad for her new classmates though."

"Dupain-Cheng will probably try to warn them when she finds out," Chloe reasoned. "Whether they listen or not is entirely up to them. She's not our problem anymore - unless she continues picking on Adrien, that is. Oh, I talked to Adrien, and he's already agreed to move to Sabrina's and Lahiffe's project, so they don't even have to worry about that! Aren't I so thoughtful?"

"Yeah, that is really thoughtful," Lacy agreed.

"He thought so too," Chloe continued. "He even prefers working with Lahiffe, for some reason. Anyways, I have important people things to do. See you in school tomorrow?"

"Yeah, see you."

Marinette took a big drink of the nice, cold water and slammed the empty glass back onto the table.

"Ugh, I was dying of thirst," she said.

"I can tell," Luka replied. "Feeling better?"

Marinette nodded. "Much. Thank you."

"Of course."

The two of them lapsed into a comfortable silence.

The boat rocked almost rhythmically. Marinette folding her arms across the table and watched the clock on the wall change. It was peaceful, and Marinette let herself relax.

Her eyes drifted to Luka, who was taking a sip of water.

"You're a good friend, Luka."

Luka smiled. "I try to be."

Marinette looked down at her elbow. "I wish I was too."

"You are," Luka replied. "To me, and even more to Juleka."

Marinette shook her head. "I feel like I'm just using you. You're always there for me, and I know I can rely on you."

"I enjoy being there for you, Marinette," Luka said.

"But I feel like I'm never there for you," Marinette argued.

"I'm not the one who needs the support," Luka said.

"Everyone needs support," Marinette countered.

"Marinette, it's fine. I've grown up used to having be there for Juleka, since our father is no longer in our lives and our mom... she's still recovering from him."

"Then you need someone even more," Marinette argued. She reached across the table and grabbed Luka's hands. "Promise me, if you ever need something, you'll ask for help. Maybe not from me, but somebody."

Luka stared at her hands for moment. "Yeah, okay."

"You're heading out?" Elisabeth questioned when Lacy walked down the stairs.

"Getting a little restless," Lacy replied. "I'm just going to the store down the street to get some pictures printed. I'll be fine."

"You're going alone?" Elisabeth prodded.

"I'll be fine," Lacy repeated. "I have my pocket knife and the dagger Piper gave me."

"Just. Be careful."

Lacy nodded.

The fresh air felt nice, and so did the walking. After being holed up all afternoon, Lacy needed to move.

The drugstore wasn't too crowded, and only two other people were in line in front of Lacy.

Someone stepped in line behind Lacy. Lacy could hear him flirting with someone else, but tuned the conversation out.

The line moved up.

The conversation behind Lacy rose in volume. Lacy was startled to hear the girl sounded suspiciously like Lila, but when Lacy glanced behind her, the girl looked nothing like Lila.

Lacy thought she was being discreet, but the girl caught her glance and scowled.

"Problem?"

"No," Lacy said, quickly glancing back to the line in front of her.

The customer in front of her was having difficulties, so Lacy resigned herself to a long wait.

Unease slowly began unsettling her stomach.

The conversation continued behind her, but Lacy kept her eyes ahead. Getting caught eavesdropping once was bad enough.

The way the girl was talking, though, it almost sounded like Charmspeak...

The customer in front of Lacy was now demanding to speak to the manager.

Someone else was now joining the line behind Lacy, and talking the other man. Sounded like his girlfriend just caught him flirting with the charmspeaker.

Lacy didn't know which conversation she least wanted to hear.

The person's girlfriend was now dragging him away, and the manager had been called. Lacy stared at her feet.

"A shame," the charmspeaker muttered. "I was looking forward to dinner."

Lacy kicked at the carpet, debating whether to leave and come back later. She didn't really need the pictures printed, except to add to her wall.

Something hit her in the back, and Lacy went flying.

Lacy hit the ground, skidding across the carpet. Her bag landed several feet away.

The charmspeaker was approaching her, and she flashed a smile.

With fangs.

Lacy cursed.

"But if I can't find myself a man, well, a demigod should do," she continued, moving to block Lacy's path to her bag - and her weapon.

Lacy's heart pounded.

What would Piper do?

She'd probably use her Charmspeak.

Not helpful.

Okay, what would someone without powers do? What would Annabeth do?

She would use her surroundings to her advantage.

The monster was approaching, and Lacy scooted backwards. She scanned the store for something.

The monster lunged, and Lacy rolled out of the way and up to her feet.

Lacy sprinted to the shelves, grabbing a sample perfume bottle. The monster followed. Lacy sprayed the perfume in her face, causing her to recoil.

Lacy kicked her in the stomach, knocking her backwards.

The monster was still between her and her bag, and between her and the door, so Lacy turned and ran the other way.

She turned down the last aisle - the cosmetics aisle - and grabbed a hairbrush off the shelf.

The monster rounded the corner, bearing her fangs, and Lacy threw the brush. It didn't land in her eye exactly, but it caught the monster by surprise.

Lacy took the opportunity, running at the monster and sliding between its legs. The carpet burned, but Lacy didn't slow down and darted for her bag.

The monster pursued.

Lacy grabbed the bag by its strap. She didn't have time to grab her knife, so she swung the bag and smacked it against the monster's face.

It was enough to make the monster stop, and Lacy took advantage and kicked her in the face.

She stumbled backwards, and Lacy reached into her bag for her dagger.

Her hand wrapped around the sunglasses case just as the monster recovered.

Neither got the chance to strike.

The monster exploded into monster guts, revealing another behind her.

"Nora?"

Adrien was really struggling to pay attention.

It wasn't Kagami's fault. Usually, hanging with Kagami was invigorating - whether they were practicing fencing, getting away with something their parents would hate, or just talking. But the akuma earlier had worn Adrien down, and while he wasn't sleepy, he didn't have the mental energy to focus on the conversation.

Adrien gave another half-hearted "uh-huh" and took a sip from his empty glass.

"Adrien?" Kagami prodded.

"Yeah?"

"Why did you ask me to this cafe with you?"

"Because... because I like talking with you?" Adrien answered.

"Then talk," Kagami commanded.

Adrien sighed. "I'm sorry. I know I'm not myself today."

"What's wrong?" Kagami asked.

Adrien shrugged. It's not like he could tell her, as much as he wanted to. He envied Marinette's time with Luka - Adrien could tell Luka how tired and sore he was.

Kagami sighed. "Be honest with me."

I can't.

"Look, I'm just tired, and I don't want to go home right now."

"I can understand not wanting to go home," Kagami said. "But you told me you wanted to hang out, but you don't."

"I do want to hang out!" Adrien said. "I enjoy your company, Kagami. Even when I'm tired."

Kagami made a noncommittal sound.

"Come on, I can't help it if I'm a little worn out," Adrien argued.

"You could have been more upfront about your intentions," Kagami replied. "It feels like you only seek me out when avoiding your father."

"That's because I'm always avoiding my father!"

"You told me this was date," Kagami insisted.

Huh?

"When did I do that?" Adrien questioned.

"When you approached me about this afternoon," Kagami said. "You said, 'would you like to go to the cafe with me after school?' I inquired if it was a date, and you said yes."

"I... don't remember that," Adrien admitted.

Kagami huffed. "I would have said yes, even if it wasn't. Which this clearly isn't."

"I'm sorry if I hurt you-"

"Save it."

Kagami grabbed her bag and stood up.

"I'll see you later, Adrien."

Kagami let the door to the cafe close loudly behind her.

Of course it wasn't a date, Kagami scolded herself. He was half asleep when he said it was. He didn't mean it.

She marched down the street, forcing back the embarrassment she felt. She had presumed, once again. She was always too fast, too quick, and it always backfired.

After the day she had today - getting a B on an assignment, having to deal with her mother finding out about it, and then having her favorite part of the day, fencing practice, cancelled - Kagami thought she deserved to be optimistic. When Adrien said yes, this was a date, she didn't even second guess it.

Stupid, stupid, stupid.

Riposte.

Kagami froze, alarmed by the voice in her head.

You've had a tough day today. Your mother thinks your grades are slipping. Your friend was dishonest with you. All you want to do is fence, but even that's been cancelled.

Well, I'm giving you the power to take out your frustrations on all of Paris. All I ask in return...

Next Chapter

#kota #Percy jackson #miraculous ladybug #fanfiction #my writing

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flusteredmountainman · 5 years

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Since a bitch got sent one (1) ask only about. my ask meme that I created lol I’m going to go through and answer B) all of them bc i can... its selfcare.....

First 3 answers above the cut, other 47 below lmfao

Favourite of the main 6? I think the title of my blog speaks for itself lol

Least favourite of the main 6? Garbage stink piss man (Lucio)

Which of the main 6 do you want to slap the most? The aforementioned piss man but.... also kjaenfjkfea at times. Julian very badly because he’s just Like that but he’d probably enjoy that unfortunately

Which of the main 6 have the most similar interests to you? (favourite colour, flower, food, drink, season, hobbies etc.) Portia tbh!!! She’s a very sweet spring girl and I also have a fairly similar personality to her.

Who has the most tragic backstory? Mmmm.....muriel.......... I mean everyone has a pretty sad past but Muriel’s really is something else. The man is Heavily traumatised and I desperately want to give him a hug :(

Favourite side character? Mazelinka.... adopt me challenge kjaefkjnaf. i cant stop thinking about “goat bitch” what a fucking icon

Favourite animal friend? Faust!!!! shes a good girl!!!

Best/worst of the courtiers? fuck i dont remember any of their names but valerius is. hot basard. worst is vlastomil hands down im kinkshaming anyone who wants to fuck the worm

Fuck, marry, kill (asker’s choice) Well skajfnkajf I’ve shot myself in the foot but. TBH its like. Marry Muriel, fuck everyone else, kill Lucio (full disclosure I only just finished julians upright ending and haven’t played Nadia’s yet so this may change except for wanting to marry Muriel and kill Lucio lol)

Romance or fluff? (Muriel) Fluff!!!!! Muriel deserves all the affection in the whole wide world. He gets sick? Bundle him up in furs by the fire and cuddle up into him with a good book. You look at him once? he blushes. it really doesnt get fluffier than that ++ a lot of his character arc in general is going to be.... letting himself trust you............. which is. so fucking wholesome

Wild night out or quiet night in? ( Muriel ) Quiet night in lmfao. We’d just hang out inside drinking hot chocolate and talking until we fell asleep propped up against the wall in his tiny house having completely lost track of time.

Adventure or domesticity? ( Muriel ) I wanna say adventure because. I love travelling! I love going out and trying new things! And Muriel very does Not but I feel like getting him out of his comfort zone would do him some good! Starting small would probably be best, like maybe a tramp or going camping once in a while, then building up to bigger trips to other cities once you’ve convinced him you’ll both be ok as long as you’re prepared.

Cute date to the aquarium/zoo/park or elegant dinner date? ( Muriel ) I already answered this one B) I said: “ Definitely somewhere casual!!! I feel like he’d be most at ease somewhere like the park on a sunny day! Pick a nice grassy spot by a creek and bring a basket and have a really nice, chill picnic, and have a nap together in the early afternoon sun. Go for a walk after and talk about Plants (because i. am a biology student lol) and generally just have a really relaxing time. Give the man a flower? Tuck it behind his ear? and he’d die kjnaefjnaej. Alternatively….. aquarium………. “

Coffeshop AU, high-school/college AU or modern AU? Give a headcanon about the one you chose jnakfjkjaf coffe shop AUs are so cliched but I actually love them for the settings of meetcutes. You meet Muriel when he’s on his rounds as a part time dog walker around the block and you barrel straight into him coming out of the shop when you’re checking an email, spilling the (now cold) remnants of your beverage all over him. You apologise profusely and he shrugs it off, blushing over your fussing and awkwardly tries to excuse himself. You insist on helping him finish his walk with All these dogs, anyway, you like dogs so it’s no trouble, and he begrudgingly agrees to finish the interaction sooner. You end up having a nice chat with him and notice in the weeks after that he starts coming by the shop without the dogs during the times you’re usually around, even though he doesn’t drink coffee. Your conversations with him during these short interludes quickly become the highlight of your day, and you start to suspect, eventually, that he feels the same :)

If (Muriel) turned up on your doorstep at midnight covered in blood, how would you react? Well I’d clean it off.... of .......course............. 👀👀👀

You’re stranded on a desert island; which 2 of the main 6 do you want with you? Muriel of course not only because I adore him but he’s. also a mountain man. Handy. And Asra because hes a good good magic boy and can make sand into water so.... handy. also asra is just an incredibly blessed person so kajefnkjaef

If your apprentice could go back in time and change one thing before the events of the game, what would it be? lucios birth :^)

You’re sick; who do you want to take care of you and why? I think I’m becoming predictable but. Muriel kjaefnkjafnjf you took such good care of him so it’s only fair that he should return the favour. He’s got a surprisingly good bedside manner and is generally just very gentle. Cooks eggs and grumbles that you should be taking better care of yourself but when you say thanks for all his help he blushes and kinda. stands up slightly straighter bc hes secretly happy he can Help

If you were trapped in an elevator with one character for 8 hours, who would you want it to be and why? Jojaefafjoafe ok so. Porbably Portia because she seems 1. one of the least likely to panic and 2. Would have fucking great conversation the whole time.

Give a headcanon about Nadia She loves romcoms!!!! She would never ever admit it to anyone though, but she’s a huge sucker for romance stories in general. Cries at the end of mamma mia. Uses it as an excuse to snuggle all the way into your shoulder.

Give a headcanon about Asra He’s extremely lactose intolerant but he eats it anyway bc hes Chaotic and gives 0 fucks about how bad his guts feel afterwards, the cheese was Worth it dammit (and I say this bc thats also me kjaenfnef)

Give a headcanon about Julian Had a brief stint in his teen years where he unironically identified as sapiosexual

Give a headcanon about Portia She loves playing with hair/having her hair played with! Catch her falling asleep with her head in your lap as you weave your fingers through her hair.

Give a headcanon about Muriel I also already answered this one!: “ He’d be really into gardening if he knew how! Catch me digging up all the dirt around his house and planting herbs, flowers (*cough* forgetmenots *cough) and other medicinal plants, and some strawberries for when spring comes! “

Give a headcanon about Lucio Unironically identifies as sapiosexual now even though he’s a huge dumbass himself

Give a headcanon about a side character/the apprentice (asker’s choice) Nadia’s dad gets pegged

Give a popular opinion that you disagree with People calling Muriel a dom. have you. looked at this man. I have to laugh

Give an unpopular opinion Lucio sucks lol

Tarot or zodiac? Zodiac!!! Mostly bc I know exactly 0 things about tarot, I appreciate the aesthetic tho!

What is your patron major arcana? Oh worm I just looked at all the explanations in the wiki and tbh. The empress uh. dragged me with how much I ID with that (both reversed and upright) so akejfkjfae thats mine

Upright or reversed ending? Upright

Ot3? Me x muriel x asra (muriel has 2 hands and 2 tiny partners)

Brotp? jakjefnkanfe i love. portia and julians sibling banter. the good shit

Favourite non-apprentice-based ship? asriel............................. till i die............. (pordia is also fucking god tier)

Is the apprentice you, or your OC? thats just me bich kajefnkjnafe we living our best self indulgent lives

Tell me about your Apprentice(s) im a big bi mess and i would die for muriel and thats it really

Favourite piece of worldbuilding lore? already answered: “ I really love how much of a shithole Vesuvia is kjbanefknaefk like. No formal process of trial/law? Public executions just being how people Do things? someone fucking help this city lmfao”

Favourite background/location? ok i really love nopal bc of all the cacti but tbh like. really anywhere theres a lot of cool nature? the forest is fucking good

The Forest or Nopal? bring the cacti from nopal to muriel’s hut in the forest and it’s perfect

The Palace or the shop? thheeee shop. i like the palace but i think id get Overwhelmed not being able to just. be in my own space a lot lol

The Rowdy raven or the library? the library with a healthy amount of alcohol lol.

Favourite sprite?

43. Favourite character design? I !!!!!!!!! really. love Asra’s design bc of its howl callback but all the designs r fucking cool 44. Best masquerade outfit? Nadia’s..... glamorous..... 45. Best scene? Muriel. hugging. faust you and asra. hes so fucking wholesome ill cry...... or just straight up both of his books akjenfkjafn 46. Worst Scene? Honestly any containing lucio 47. Favourite song on the soundtrack? I love Crowd hammer! (predictable) but also memory 48. Best tale/bonus content? I dont remember names im terrible but i/ love the muriel one ofc kjneafkjn 49. Best CG?/ 50. Favourite memory?

#muriel #its not. an ask but imma tag it that way #asks #hcs #it speaks #nadia #lucio #julian #portia #asra #jaye writes

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punkrockpolitix · 4 years

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Trumpism and the Tyranny of the Minority

by Mitch Maley — I'm often asked why self-described patriots seem to be okay with fascism or how those who scream in defense of concepts such as liberty and freedom can fail to be troubled by our slide toward totalitarianism, but such questions seem to miss the larger point.

Trumpism isn't a new phenomenon or even unique to the man at its helm. It is simply the logical end point for the so-called Tea Party movement that has completely taken over traditional conservatism in the past decade, a movement that aims to fully impose the will of a minority, even if their views are grossly out of step with most Americans.

In that sense, 2010 was the official end of bipartisan government, the moment the opposition became the enemy. It became more dangerous to reach across the aisle than to sit on your hands and do nothing, unless you could do everything your constituents wanted. It became a zero sum game in which half a loaf of bread was worse than none at all.

Make no mistake, extremism—whether it comes from the right or the left—is always about minority rule. Otherwise, the beliefs would be mainstream. Donald Trump was only the fourth president in U.S. history to lose the popular vote and win the electoral college, and he did it with less of a share of the total vote (46.9) than any of the others. Not once during his presidency has his approval rate hit 50 percent, and it's recently been as low as 35.

I point this out because to hear his supporters tell it, they are part of a silent majority, despite what the math tells us. However, minority rule has been at the core of this movement from the beginning—at least for its architects. From restrictive voting laws clearly meant to suppress opposition turnout (including the current misinformation campaign on vote by mail) to packing the courts with judges that hold views grossly out of step with the majority of Americans and seeking to subvert the Supreme Court decision on a woman's right to choose with laws meant to curtail the ability of women to access abortion under bogus pretenses, the right-wing platform has increasingly become about a minority of people imposing their beliefs on a majority who find them objectionable.

Sure, there are memes, slogans and talking points that attempt to rationalize things like voter ID laws, limitations on early voting, requiring OBGYNs to have admitting privileges near their clinics or that the clinics to be expensively retrofitted to meet arbitrary codes, and on and on across a broad spectrum of issues, but when you read the literature of the think tanks and policy groups that craft such legislation, their objective is clear: How do we get what we want, without the power of the majority behind us?

One way is to argue that the rules favor the minority view, which is why there are always so many lay constitutional scholars ready to tell us how things like universal health care, mask mandates during a pandemic, sensible environmental regulation and other policies favored by a majority of Americans run afoul of the founder's intent, even if those same experts fail to find their voice each time this president tramples on the Constitution on behalf of something they agree with.

But gerrymandering districts so that you can keep at least part of Congress under your control despite getting less total Congressional votes cycle after cycle, or packing courts with sympathetic judges who might uphold the unconstitutional laws you are able to get passed is part of the kind of long game most people don't have patience for. In the end, if you want to see your country look exactly the way you want—and most of your fellow Americans do not share your vision—there is only one route: ceding power to a totalitarian dictator who has been able to turn minority support into presidential power and is willing to dance to any song his supporters play, so long as they provide the means for him to remain in power—legitimately or otherwise.

It is in this effort that fascism becomes quite useful, for it allows the minority to actually claim defense of our freedoms against an enemy that can now be identified as the other, an outsider group who they don't need to count among their numbers, as those people are now the enemy, making for a false reality in which they are no longer a minority but rather a majority of real Americans who love their country and are therefore intent on stopping the evil others at all costs.

Fascism is, at its core, not an ideology. Most simply put, it is an attack from the right on the left, on the basis that the central tenets of liberalism represent a constant threat of socialist takeover that is always close to being upon us. Draped in nationalism and an appeal to a brand of inherent righteousness most commonly found in religious movements, it should be no surprise that its adherents often espouse rhetoric that is just as dogmatic and evangelical.

Conversely, socialism is, in many ways, a similar attack on the perceived inherent evils of capitalism. Like fascist revolutions, socialist ones routinely justify violent insurrection, theft and even the execution of those who do not bend their knee, as necessary nearly to the point of being benevolent—regardless of the majority's will. One need not look further than the recent upheaval in Seattle, where a group of left-wing radicals vandalized private property while occupying six city blocks and making ridiculous demands until eventually devolving into the deadly chaos of a miniature failed state. The means to take power already exist through democratic channels, but because a majority is needed to seize it, the malcontent convince themselves that such a system is inherently corrupt to the degree that such criminal reappropriations are not only justified but completely necessary in order to force their minority view on the rest of the community who so desperately needs to live by it, even if they don’t realize it yet.

What the extreme left and extreme right have in common is an unwavering belief that there is but one way to do things—theirs. The big difference, however, is that while the extreme left doesn't even like the Democratic Party, even the progressive left is but a fringe force in a party almost wholly controlled by right of center NeoLiberals who drape themselves in progressive slogans, while remaining contemptuous of progressive politics.

Meanwhile, the Tea Party movement has, in just 10 years, completely vanquished the NeoConservative forces that preceded it as the power center of the Republican Party. Trump's election in 2016 signaled the passing of the torch, or rather it being pried from the cold, dead hands of the House of Bush. The extreme right, very much unlike the extreme left, is in control, with both the White House and the Senate under its wing. Those who haven't bent their knee in fealty to Trump and his tribe like former NeoCon stalwarts Lindsey Graham, Nikki Haley and Mitch McConnell have, have either been marooned in a political no man’s land (Mitt Romney) or have gotten out.

What's left of the NeoConservative Republicans is now part of team Biden, seeing far more commonality with the NeoLiberals than Trump's crowd. That should be no surprise. The majority of Democrats and Republicans of 2000-2010 disagreed on little when it came down to brass tacks. Sure, they dangled identity politics, social issues and class warfare as red meat for the crowd, but when it came to Wall Street, globalization, bad trade deals and forever wars, they had much in common and were happy to divy the loot.

Of course, if you're a Trump supporter, you might be inclined to think something totally different. To hear his campaign frame the 2020 election, he's not running against the guy who wrote the crime bill, voted for every war and military spending bill ever put before him and routinely worked across the aisle to make deals. No, they're running against Antifa, AOC, looters in Portland and the impending socialist revolution that will always be on the verge of taking over, lest Donald J. Trump protects us.

Why? Because there's not a very sound argument for minority rule or trading democracy for autocracy to get it, unless the wolves are at the door and your only choices are giving up your freedoms or being eaten alive. For many Trump supporters, the constant rhetoric and propaganda has led them to a place where they truly believe there's that much at stake in November. It doesn't matter that the streets were peaceful when he took office or that Americans have never been as divided as they have become under his rule, at least since the Civil War. That's not because of his actions. In their minds, it's in spite of them. If Biden were to win, every American city would be overtaken by violent leftists, AOC and the Squad would be pulling his strings, and their country would become unrecognizable. Of course they would hand over any power needed to the one man who could save them from such horrors.

For the rest of us, the country has already become unrecognizable since 2016, and in the worst way possible. We're living their nightmare and the notion that four more years of Trump (or perhaps more, given his regular references to deserving a third term) might indeed see the United States slide into a totalitarian autocracy in which dissenters or even those deemed insufficiently enthusiastic about Dear Leader could be sent off to the gulags seems all too possible. The only thing that remains certain is that it won't be over on November 3, no matter who wins. America is at the crossroads of a cultural reckoning, and it will take more than just a presidential election for it to fully play out.

Dennis “Mitch” Maley has been a journalist for more than two decades. A former Army Captain, he has a degree in government from Shippensburg University and is the author of several books, which can be found here.

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star-trekkin-across-theuniverse · 6 years

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Resource Management, pt24

Word Count: 1897 Tags: @supermoonpanda @rayleyanns @sistasarah-sallysaidso @feelmyroarrrr @anyakinamidala @dirajunara @little-study-bug @rampant-salamander @goodnightwife @samaxraph99 @anotherotter @outside-the-government @kingarthurscat @coyote-in-space @originalpottervengerlock @dolamrothianlady @curiositywillbethedeathofme @superheroesofbothuniverses @mtriestowrite @wanderingkat77

It was probably stupid to go home, not knowing if Garrett was going to want me back. I couldn’t see him needing me, but he was crazy enough to want to kill me, and it gave me pause. But I wanted clean clothes, and a shower, and something to eat. I wanted the comfort of my own home. I wanted to hold my passport in my hand, and know that if the world stayed completely upside down, I could escape home, into the forests of northern BC, and not worry about anyone coming after me. Of course, once again, I had no way into my apartment. Fortunately, once again, my super was a champ about letting me in. This time, however, he had more to say about my job.

“Did you even know, Annie? Sometimes the grunts don’t know,” he muttered.

“I had no idea, Bob.” It was true. I still didn’t have the details, but I’d known there was a HYDRA infiltration. But we’d never had the chance to figure out how deeply it went. Cecelia Banks was a genius.

“The grunts never know.” He patted me on the shoulder and pushed my door open.

“Thanks, Bob.”

“What are you going to do now?” He asked.

“Good question. I don’t know,” I admitted.

“You let me know if you need anything, sweetie. You’re a good tenant, and good people,” he rested his hand on my arm.

“Thanks, Bob.” I closed my door and went directly to the bathroom. I started running the tub, hot, and full of Epsom salts and bubbles, and poured myself a full tumbler of whiskey. I stripped down and dropped my clothes in the hamper before padding back to the tub, glass in hand. I slipped under the bubbles and sighed. I wasn’t able to let go of everything, but I released a fair amount of tension just letting the heat soak into me. I leaned my head against the tub surround and closed my eyes.

I must have nodded off. I heard a knock on my door, and realized my water had gone cold. I slipped out of the tub and into my bathrobe. I crept to the door as quietly as I could and peered out the peephole. There was no one there, at least, no one I could see. There was no way I was opening the door. I stepped away and went to get dressed.

I made myself a peanut butter sandwich and flopped down to turn on CNN. I wanted to know what all was going on. I kept the volume low, and heard a knock on my door again. This time I ignored it. I heard the door unlatch and open and dropped to the floor in front of my couch.

“Annie, it’s Bob. I have something for you,” he called. I crawled around the living room and came up behind my cracked open door. I peered through the peephole again to make sure he was alone. He was.

“Let me open the door, Bob.” I shut it and unlatched the chain to pull the door open. Bob stepped in, his grey work coat pulled closed. He pulled a gun and holster out and handed it to me.

“This is my service revolver, honey. I’ve been glued to the TV since that first flying ship came down. You need it more than I do.” He dug in his pockets and pulled out a couple of box of bullets.

“Bob, I can’t –“

“Way I see it, kiddo, you have to. You’re not the kind of girl to not be some kind of important. And if you aren’t with the terrorists, it means they’ll be looking for you. My money says you probably have some secrets tucked in your brain that someone would kill to keep quiet. Take the gun. You’re from the Midwest somewhere, right?” He interrupted.

“I’m from western Canada –“

“I’m pretty sure I have your mom’s address in St. Louis on your lease. I’ll forward anything important to you there,” he cut me off again with a wink. “You should really think about going home for a visit until this blows over.”

He shuffled back out the door and disappeared down the hallway. I felt sick. He’d worked for one of the agencies for years, and if he thought I should run, he was probably right. I went to start packing. I pulled out my backpack and carefully picked the stitching out of the big maple leaf badge. I only packed a couple of days worth of clothes, as I had lost my purse in the safe house somewhere, so had only the cash that was stuffed in the mason jar in the back of my baking cupboard to get me anywhere. And considering I’d already raided it once recently, there wasn’t much left. I changed into the same cargo pants and sweatshirt I’d worn the last time I’d be ‘on the run’, hoping for similar luck. It was a moment of weakness, but I really wanted Phil to sweep in and save the day. I wasn’t usually a Disney princess, but this time I really wanted to be rescued.

I grabbed a few things that I couldn’t live without, just in case I wouldn’t be coming back, and tucked them away in an inner pocket in my bag. I slipped my laptop into the padded back panel and zipped it closed. I took a final look around my apartment, mentally saying goodbye to my books. Everything else was replaceable, but the books would be a loss if I couldn’t return. I opened my desk to dig around for my passport, and couldn’t find it. I opened the next drawer and moved the papers in it around, but it wasn’t there either. I double checked the first drawer again and checked my night table. No passport. I knew it hadn’t been in my purse, I’d only used to it to replace the ID that had gone up in the first attack on the Triskelion, and clearly remembered putting it back in my desk. I pulled every single item out of both drawers, but my passport was gone. The small envelope that I kept my Canadian ID in was also missing. Someone was trying to trap me in the USA.

My heart started racing again. I had about forty bucks in cash and no identification. It was going to make a border crossing difficult. I could hear voices in the hall, and what sounded like the crackle of a radio. It stopped right outside my door. I slid everything back into my desk and peered out the peephole. A couple of guys carrying guns in black tactical gear were gesturing to one another. I backed away from the door and headed to the kitchen window. I looked out, but didn’t see anyone watching the window. Whoever they were, like Garrett, they were underestimating me. I slid my window open and hopped onto the fire escape. I climbed down to the alley and walked away from my building as calmly as I could. When I was sure I was clear, I sped up and didn’t look back until I was on the metro on the way toward the bus station.

It was dark in New York City when I got off the bus. I’d bought the ticket for the busiest place I could think of, where I had the best chance of blending into the crowd. It wasn’t until I was halfway there that I thought that I might be able to track down Tony Stark at the Avengers Tower.

I walked into the lobby of the building and approached the security desk.

“Can I help you?” The security guard was old, and his shoulders stooped forward a little. His silver hair was brushed straight back, and he had a big bushy mustache that reminded me of my granddad. I couldn’t help but smile at him.

“I need to see Mr. Stark.”

“It’s 10:30,” he put me off.

“If I know Tony, that means he should just be cranking the stereo in the lab,” I nodded. If he was here, I thought. The guard raised his eyebrows and looked down at the computer screen. He typed something in.

“He would have left a name if he was expecting anyone. There’s no list for tonight.” He shook his head.

“If you could just call up to him?” I implored.

“If you know Mr. Stark, like you say you do, you know he doesn’t like being bothered when he’s working,” the guard typed something else into the computer.

“I do know that,” I said, “but this is kind of an emergency.”

A tall redhead walked off the elevator towards us, talking on the phone.

“No, I’m telling you, this is a total mess. A building was literally destroyed by a helicarrier with one of our new proprietary engines in it, and I’m going to be doing damage control for days about why you have terrorists using your tech. So no, Tony, I am not coming back upstairs,” she sounded flustered, and the hair, coupled with the conversation, made me realize she was Pepper Potts. I wanted to reach out and grab her, but she looked over and saw me standing there and stopped.

“I’m sorry, Ms. Potts, I told her –“

“Who are you?” She interrupted the security guard. Tony was still on the other end of the phone, I could see the timer on the screen counting up airtime.

“Anna Ellis.” If I said it louder than I needed to, it was because I saw that the call was still live. Potts jerked her head away from the phone and glared at me.

“How do I know you’re Anna Ellis?” She demanded.

“Please, Ms. Potts. I don’t have any ID and I have three dollars and ninety-six cents left. I have nowhere else to go.” I wanted to sit down and cry.

“But how do I know you’re who you say you are?” She put the phone down on the counter between us and hit the speaker button. Tony didn’t say a word.

“Tony brought a bunch of art into my office a few weeks ago,” I started.

“Too easy.” They said it in unison.

“The Starry Night was fake, but the Sunflowers were real. The hideous art deco Iron Man print was the real focal point of the room though,” I continued. Potts shook her head, still not convinced.

“He added pages to my Thor scrapbook that wound up having some sort of computer chip embed in them that allowed him to hack the SHIELD servers and discover Agent Coulson was still alive,” I concluded. I had nothing else. Potts went pale.

“Phil Coulson?” She shrieked, “Tony, Phil is alive and you didn’t tell me?” If she’d been able to beat him through the phone, I think she would have. The elevator doors opened and Tony stepped out, then stepped back in. Potts spun around and stalked toward the mirrored doors, practically glowing red with rage.

“Pepper –“

“Oh no you –“

“Pepper, Annie needs me alive if I’m going to help her.” He cut her off and darted around her, pocketing the phone. I was so relieved on seeing him that I slumped down against the security desk and started to cry.

#avengers fanfic #avengers fanfic with OFC #Phil Coulson x OFC

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50funny · 4 years

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Mage- Chapter 61: Friends And Familiar Faces

Part 1- Reuniting

The group looked over to the door next to the desk and walked over it. They stood in front of the door looking at it for a moment. Liz took in a long deep breath.

“Right… let's see what this is all about then.”

Liz reached out her hand and turned the door nob before slowly pulling the door open. The room was suddenly filled with the overwhelming sound of hundreds if not thousands of voices all having there own conversations. The group stepped through the door and into the room behind. The room they entered was enormous, large enough to fit several plains with no window, only being lit by several rows of bright lights running along the roof. The room was packed tightly with a sea of people. Behind the sound of the hundreds of voices was the low pitched drones of several exhaust fans keeping air flowing through the space. Liz looked around in amazement at the room.

“Holy crap… this place is enormous,” Liz said in amazement.

“Guess this must be some sort of government facility,” replied Alex.

“Hey you guys,” Tobin said grabbing the pair's attention. “I’m gonna head off and try to find some of my connections in the other guild, maybe I can find out just what's going on here. I'll see you round ok.”

Tobin raised his hand and waved as he turned and walked off into the large crowd leaving Liz, Alex, and Bip alone. Liz looked around the building scanning from person to person. She noticed a large podium at the far end of the room with a single microphone standing in the middle of it. Liz raised up her hand to point towards the podium.

“Come on let’s go try and get closer to the stage so we can see what’s going on.”

“Huh… oh yeah sure,” Alex took a step forward towards the podium before being stopped in his tracks as he felt a slight pulling on his shirt.

He turned around to see a scrawny well-dressed man wearing a pair of thick-rimmed glasses looking back at him with a familiar stare. Alex looked at the man in confusion for a moment.

“Oh umm… hello… do I know you?”

The man continued to stare at Alex without saying a word making Alex grow even more uncomfortable. After a few seconds, the man raised his hand up to his mouth clenching a small inhaler in it. He took in a short puff, instantly jogging Alex’s memory.

“Oh hey I remember you now, Puffs right?”

The man nodded in reply without saying a word leaving Alex unsure of how to respond.

“Well well well if they called you guys here it must be serious,” came a familiar voice from behind Liz.

She turned around to see Calem, Edgar, and Tom smiling back at her.

“Oh hey, you guys… what are all of you doing here?” Liz said.

“The cleaners guild was called here as well you know,” said Edgar.

“And my squad was ordered to come here and help out with keeping order at the meeting,” Tom added.

“Oh… well, it’s good to see you again anyway,” Liz said.

Her eyes glanced down to see a short stump of wood sticking out of his shoe. Calem noticed Liz’s eyes shift down. He raised his leg up and grabbed his foot and balanced on one leg as he pulled his shoe off revealing a wooden foot underneath.

“Pretty cool right. It took a little while to get used to but now I barely even notice,” said Calem.

Liz looked slightly uncomfortable as she stared at the wooden foot. Edgar noticed the uncomfortable expression on her face.

“Come on Calem… put that away, you don’t want to traumatize the poor girl,” Edgar said.

Calem slipped his shoe back on and put his leg back to the ground.

“So anyway…” Liz said as she turned to look at Tom. “You’re a captain, right? then you must have some idea of what’s going on here.”

“Uhh… yeah actually I’m a private now,” Tom replied awkwardly.

Alex waved off Puffs as he walked off into the crowd. He turned around to join the rest of the group. Liz looked on surprised as Tom’s words sunk in.

“Huh, a private. Isn’t that a lower rank than a captain?”

“Yeah, that’s right. After the stunt I pulled back in Niske I was put in front of a military court, guess the army doesn’t take to kindly to being blackmailed. After that, I was bumped down to a private and they are keeping me under a pretty tight watch. Honestly, with how much trouble I was in I’m surprised I didn’t get worse. Unfortunately, privates aren’t really privy to much useful information so can't really help there .”

Tom looked down at his watch before looking back up to the others.

“I should really get back to it, don’t want to get into any more trouble. See you around guys.”

Tom turned around and walked off towards a small group of soldiers.

“We should probably go have a look around too. Don’t get into any trouble you two ok,” Edgar said drawing Liz, Bip, and Alex's attention back to them.

“See you around,” Bip said with a smile.

The groups waved at each other as Calem and Edgar turned around and walked off into the crowd. After a few seconds of waving Alex and Liz dropped their hands and turned to face each other once again.

“It’s a little bit weird seeing so many familiar faces all in one place like this,” Alex said.

“Yeah but it’s nice to see all our friends again,” Liz replied.

“Oh... well I wouldn’t necessarily call us friends but I suppose it's nice to see you too,” came a cold, sarcastic voice from further into the crowd.

Shivers shot down Liz’s spine freezing her solid in place. She turned her head to look into the mess of strangers where the voice had come from. The sea of people seemed to almost part revealing Es standing ominously amongst the crowd. He began to walk forward out of the crowd towards the group, eyeing off Liz with an evil glare. Liz continued to stand motionless in shock. Alex noticed the fearful expressions etched onto Liz face. As Es grew closer Alex stepped out in front of Liz block Es and snapping her out of her shocked state.

“That’s close enough, what are you doing here.”

Es stared off Alex before cracking a sly smile.

“No need to get so defensive, I’m not dumb enough to try anything with all these Mages around. As for what I’m doing here…”

Es reached into his pocket and riffled around in there. After a few seconds he pulled his hand out a small folded up piece of paper and began to unfold it. He held the sheet of paper up to Alex revealing it to be a similar letter to the one Tobin had received.

“I received special notice to come here despite not being in a guild. Guess someone high up must have taken note of my skill and power and decided id be perfect to help out,” Es said with no small hint of arrogance.

Alex felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned his head to see Liz holding her hand out to his shoulder.

“Alex… I'm ok,” She muttered.

Alex stepped out of the way allowing Liz and Es to meet each other gaze.

“That’s all well and good but why would you come here, It doesn’t seem like you to want to help out,” said Liz.

“Oh really? You have such little faith, cant I just want to help out my country?” Es said, his voice laced with a thick coating of sarcasm. Liz continued to stare down Es with a serious scoul. Es sarcastic smile slowly faded as Liz continued to glare at him.

“Fine, I wanted to have our final showdown but even I’m not brave enough to start a big fight in here with all these solider’s and mages around. But don’t you worry… it's coming very soon, so you best be ready for when it does.”

Es began to sink back into the crowd before being consumed by it completely and disappearing. Liz let out a long deep breath as her body loosened and she let her guard drop. She continued to stare entranced off into the crowd where Es had disappeared.

“Liz!” Bip yelled, snapping Liz out of her trance.”

“Huh… what.”

“You ok?” asked Bip.

“Yeah… I’m fine,” Liz said unconvincingly.

Suddenly a door opened onto the stage, only letting out a quiet creek. Every mage in the room instantly stopped their conversations and shifted there gaze up to the stage. An uncomfortable silence came over the room as everyone waited for something to happen. After a few moments, a man dressed in a military uniform with many colorful badges pinned to his chest strode out onto the stage. The man walked towards the podium in complete silence. He reached the podium and tapped the microphone sending a thumping sound echoing out through the stadium through the speakers around the room. The man leaned in close to the microphone.

“Ok people, times up. So without any further delay, lets begin.”

________________________________________________________________ Thank you for reading chapter 61 of mage. If you like what you see consider checking out my AO3 at this link https://archiveofourown.org/users/50Funny to see all new chapters 3 days early. If you feel so inclined please consider following my tumblr for all updates and other tid bits. Until next time , have a good one.

#Mage #Magic #Magical #Story #Original Story #Fantasy #Fantasy Story #Writing #50Funny

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okayitsblaine-blog · 6 years

Text

Doubletake || An Anderson Brothers (sort of) Para

Who: Blaine Anderson and Carter Whittaker ( @princecarterw ) What: A run-in by the egg nog and a misunderstanding When: This evening, 12/09/2017 Where: Blaine’s Christmas party Notes: nah.

Blaine’s Christmas party was going off without a hitch- even though he’d thought he might have to cancel it. It turned out that Van had only wanted to make sure that other holidays weren’t forgotten in the mess of Christmas, and Blaine understood that. He even brought in a menorah for her and Rachel and anyone else that might be Jewish. The truth was, he didn’t know how to throw a Hanukkah party, and he’d admitted to that. Plus, he didn’t know the first thing about the holiday. And besides, this party wasn’t about church or actual religion anyway. It was about hanging out, dancing, talking, and having some drinks with friends- the latter of the bunch, Blaine was already quite started on. He was known to get a little… drunk when it came to his own parties. He was good at handling his liquor (unless it was tequila) and was lucky enough to not end up hungover the next day. It was for that reason he was maybe a slightly overindulging in some boozy eggnog. His hair was messy and his Christmas bowtie was crooked as he chatted up anyone he could find. These parties, and of course the booze, were always a good reason for him the break out of his shell. Especially now that he had people that would make sure everything was okay. His friends and also his sister were all so truly amazing. Breaking into a little jig, he danced over to the eggnog for another cupful.

Carter had been confused when a random classmate of his invited him out to some Christmas party being put on by someone he didn’t really know, but then again, most people were more than happy to invite the prince to parties, if only for notoriety’s sake. He usually knew the person throwing the party, though, but he showed up anyway. Carter never was one to turn down an invitation to be social. He showed up where he he had been told to go with a deep purple button up shirt on (that screamed royalty) and his hair immaculately in place. It seemed like a decent group, he noticed. Everyone was having a good time, and he fit right in, grinning and talking and, of course, drinking. The eggnog was amazing, and as he made his way over for a refill, he noticed who he was pretty sure was the host there too. Straightening the tie he was wearing, he fixed his most charming smile on his face. “Hey there,” he said, his voice accented from his childhood growing up in Europe.

Blaine poured some eggnog into his cop, already emptied several times. He just couldn’t help it. He was really proud of how this recipe had turned out. Maybe desserts weren’t the only thing he was really good at. Maybe boozy drinks were his calling. He chuckled to himself at the thought and glanced up at a vaguely British accent greeted him. He started to say hello back, looking back down at his cup and the punch bowl as he put the ladle back, but he froze and shot his eyes back up. Cooper. Blaine felt his heart stop. He hadn’t heard from Cooper since finding out that he’d made good friends with their former uncle. The one that Blaine didn’t like thinking about, regardless of how few people actually knew about the incident in his childhood. He hadn’t even seen Cooper in person when that whole thing had happened- it had all been via text message. He didn’t even know what Cooper was in town. Actually, no one knew where Cooper was nowadays. Blaine swallowed hard, realizing how absolutely dry his throat was. “What are you doing here?” he asked, feeling suddenly cold as the color drained from his face.

Carter was used to people being surprised to see him. It was a side effect of him being a prince, after all. What he wasn’t used to, though, was people looking at him as though they had seen a ghost. That was how he was being looked at right now, and Carter didn’t like it one bit. When the other guy spoke, he grew even more confused, blinking a few times. “Someone invited me.” He glanced out into the crowd, and spied the top of the person’s head. “Them,” he said, pointing. “I’m sorry, should I not have been invited?”

Blaine followed the other’s pointed finger for half a second before he realized that he didn’t care. That he was looking into the face of his older brother for the first time in, he wasn’t sure how long. He didn’t care who had invited Cooper or why they would have done that- who even knew the older Anderson? Blaine had no idea. “I haven’t seen you… in- in years and you show up with some fake British accent on- I’ve never understood why you do those accents. This isn’t Hollywood. It’s real life…” he said, not really knowing where to start or even if he wanted to have this conversation.

Carter blinked once again. So it appeared this person thought he was someone else. That was new. He frowned and set his cup down on the table before crossing his arms. “I’m sorry, but I’ve never met you before in my life. I don’t know who you think I am, but that’s not me. This is my real accent,” he insisted. The fact that the accent was only half real didn’t matter. At this point, it was an approximation of his childhood accent, adjusted to sound how he believed princes usually spoke. Carter stared at the younger boy trying to think if he had in fact seen him before. It was no use. He was completely a mystery. “You have me confused with someone else, I’m sure.”

Blaine was astounded that Cooper was doing this. It was just like him, trying to be better than his younger brother, trying to prove he was something amazing and different than the rest of the family. He rolled his eyes and set his own cup down, folding his arms just like the other. “Now you’ve never met me before in your life. Great. You know, I don’t hate anyone. There’s no point in it. But pretending that I don’t exist? Are you pretending that Wendy doesn’t exist too? You’re being a jerk. I didn’t invite you to this party, it’s just for people who who to school here. Go back to L.A., Cooper,” he said, trying to prevent the sad feeling from spreading through his chest and up to his eyes, and failing to do so.

Carter watched the other boy as he spoke, frowning deeply. Whoever he was being mistaken for clearly had issues if this was how he would be greeted. He was really starting to feel uncomfortable, and thinking he probably shouldn’t have come to the party. Then again, how could he have known he apparently looked very similar to whoever the host had a problem with. “I do go to school here,” he protested weakly, absentmindedly wonder why the name Cooper sounded so familiar. Vague memories surfaced, from the time before Europe, and he pushed them back. “Look, I’m not pretending anything. My name’s not Cooper. I’ve never met him before in my life, and I certainly haven’t met you, or Wendy. My name is Carter Whittaker.” A thought occurred to him and he pulled his wallet out of his pocket and slipped out his student ID. “Look.” He held it out for the boy, for once in his life glad that he had chosen not to get a new photo taken in September. “I’m sorry, but I really am not the man you think I am.”

Blaine stared at his brother incredulously. He was apparently mad that Blaine had stopped talking to him, or at least that was as much as the younger of the two could tell. What other reason would there be for pretending like you didn’t know your own brother? Blaine didn’t like Cooper, but he still wouldn’t have done anything like that. Even if Cooper was friends with their uncle Jerry. He was about to roll his eyes and come up with some smart, brothery comment when the other got out his school ID. Blaine had one that was exactly the same with his own information on it. He looked up suspiciously. “This is going too far,” he said, keeping his voice low. “You can’t just make up a fake name and accent to go to school here. I’m pretty sure that’s like, completely illegal. And Mom and Dad would be really angry if they found out.”

Carter felt his heart leap into his throat. Even though the other still clearly believed him to be this Cooper guy (the name still called to him, for some reason), he had hit a bit too close to home. Clearing his throat, he put his ID away. “My parents are in Europe. In Aladonia. I’m sorry if I look like Cooper, but I’m not him. I’m here, studying Business Management, and then I’ll be going back home.” He hoped that the boy had at least heard the rumours about the Aladonian prince studying at Ashwood. “I don’t know what else to say. I honestly have no idea who you are.” Vague memories started to tug at him again.

Blaine actually rolled his eyes this time, settling his arms folded tighter to his chest. He clenched his jaw for a second. “No, your parents are in Albany, wondering why you never call them. Seriously, Cooper, what did I ever do to you? Why in the world would you study Business Management instead of like, whatever acting degree for your big acting career? As much as you are really not my favorite person right now, I’m gonna call you on that. Aladonia? Did you make that up too? Stop pretending you don’t know me. I get it. You don’t like me, but I’m still your brother, and this isn’t fair! I’d rather have you be mean than pretend I don’t exist!” Blaine was clearly agitated at this point, and clearly hadn’t heard about the prince on campus.

Carter wasn’t getting anywhere, he was quickly realizing. He had to think fast, since if he didn’t, it was very likely that the situation would escalate even further than it already had. “I don’t know what you did to Cooper, or what he did to you. You have to believe me. I’m no actor, there’s no chance I would last through a theatre degree.” A thought occurred to him, and despite thinking it would probably never work given the other’s current emotional state, he decided to run with it. “Here, let me show you something.” He dug his phone out and scrolled through the photos until he found the one he was looking for. “Look. This is me, and these are my parents.” It was an old photo from when he was a child, and luckily for his story, everyone was dressed quite formally for a business party. “This photo was taken in Switzerland, when I was ten.”

Blaine listened to the other’s explanation, not able to shake the feeling that he was absolutely telling the truth. Either Cooper has gotten really good at acting, or he had an exact doppleganger that was the prince of a country Blaine had never heard of before. He looked at the picture that was being held out and pressed his lips together, frowning. That was definitely what his older brother looked like. There were pictures of him alongside pictures of Blaine and Wendy all over the Anderson home. He pulled out his own phone and dug through his albums. “Okay… what about this picture then?” he questioned, holding the screen up to show his own proof that Cooper was his brother. “That trip to Connecticut when I was like five. You look like, exactly the same. I’ve never been to Switzerland, so I’m not sure why Mom and Dad would have let you go. Without them even.”

Carter pressed his lips together, looking at the photo being shown to him. He had no memories of a trip to Connecticut, but there was no denying that the older boy in the picture looked exactly like he had at that age. The father looked familiar to him, too, but he pushed that thought aside. “I was born in Aladonia, it’s a tiny microstate near Switzerland. I had never been to America until a few years ago when I first toured this college. I don’t know why I look like your… brother…? You have to believe me, I honestly have no idea who you are, or who that is in the photograph with you.” He lingered, though, looking down at the phone and trying to piece together why the father and older son seemed so familiar.

Blaine felt his heart crush like someone was squeezing it in their bare hand. He didn’t get along with Cooper very well, considering the age difference between them and then the more recent fact of who his brother had decided to be friends with, but something about how he was completely wiping him out of his life and making up a persona just to counter Blaine’s lack of enthusiasm toward him was making Blaine’s throat get tight. He knew Cooper was an actor, but this was going too far. His eyebrows scrunched a little and his eyes started to get a little wet. “Okay. You win,” he said, sounding defeated. “You were born in Aladonia and you’re not my brother. I get it.” He wished this didn’t hurt so much. He wanted to get away from here. Just find Wendy and tell her about Cooper’s pretending they don’t exist. Or drink tequila until it didn’t matter. “Excuse me,” he said, turning to leave the table.

Carter watched the younger boy closely, trying to get a read on him. He was clearly upset, and honestly, he didn’t blame him. Whoever this Cooper was, he clearly had done something very bad. “I truly am sorry,” he said, softly and apologetically. Now he felt bad, and was doubting his decision to come to the party in the first place. Crossing his arms in front of him, he bit the inside of his cheek. When the other made to leave, Carter sighed. Part of him wanted to ask for the boy’s name, but the other part of him knew that it would only make things worse. “See you around,” he murmured, turning back to the eggnog and topping up his cup.

#para #para: carter #a:carter #ashusocial #//bc this would have been able to be seen by anyone nearby #ashucarter

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fadwabouzangad · 4 years

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HOW TO OVERCOME 5 COMMON TRAVEL FEARS?

Some people have little or no inhibitions when it involves travel. They devour and go at a moments notice and maybe without even a thought out plan. While others want to travel but may have travel fears that are keeping them reception .

If you're one among these apprehensive folks, I understand your concerns but would encourage you to strategize ways to still get out there and explore this great big world we sleep in . The more of the planet you see, the less scary it'll seem.

To start you off within the right direction, I’ve outlined five of the travel fears I’ve heard from others or have even felt myself and recommendations on the way to overcome them:

FEAR OF NOT KNOWING THE LOCAL LANGUAGE Fear: I won’t be ready to understand anything the local people are saying to me. All of the road signs, menus, transportation system signs, shops, etc. are going to be during a different language.

How to Overcome It: Unless you're multilingual, there are getting to be many countries where people speak a special language than you. Knowing this before time, ready to "> you'll take steps to organize yourself so that you're able to communicate with others albeit it's only during a basic way.

Look up and learn some key phrases before you allow home like Hello, Please, Thank You, Where is … ?, Bathroom, and does one Speak English? you'll also download translation apps like Google Translate where you'll type, speak, or maybe take an image of the phrase and it'll translate it for you so you'll either read or hear what the interpretation is.

In my very own experience, having the ability to talk a minimum of a couple of phrases of the local language can go an extended way when paired with non-verbal communication like pointing. I’ve also found that just trying to use an area language, people are more hospitable helping you. inspect more recommendations on the way to visit a rustic where you don’t know the language.

FEAR OF GETTING LOST Fear: I won’t know where i'm , will go the incorrect way, and never be ready to find my way again.

How To Overcome It: Everyone gets lost from time to time. When I’ve found myself a touch rotated during a new place, more often than not an area are going to be quite willing to offer you directions or in some cases, take you on to where you would like to go! to assist ease your mind, it’s an honest idea to bring a paper map of the destination you’ll be visiting. That way you'll have a simple thanks to ask an area where you're and find out where you would like to travel next.

If you’re staying during a hotel, stop by the front desk or concierge to invite directions to where you’d wish to go. I also always grab the hotel’s card which has their address thereon . I can then hand that to a taxi driver and obtain taken right to the front entrance .

And in fact , there are always apps like Google Maps or MAPS.ME where you'll download your location map before time on wifi and still access it while out and about where you'll not have service.

But don’t be too upset if you finish up lost. a number of my best and happiest travel memories are from getting a touch lost and off the beaten path – just attempt to do so safely.

FEAR OF LOGISTICAL MISHAPS Fear: What if I miss my flight? Or the train i used to be alleged to take is delayed? How will I find out what to do?

How to Overcome It: Even the best-laid plans hit logistical hiccups that are out of your control. the simplest thing to try to to is first, take a deep breath. Second, attempt to find someone that works for the corporate you were alleged to be traveling with whether that’s a gate agent, train conductor, or ticket seller. they'll be ready to offer you a couple of alternative ideas of the way to get to your destination and in best case scenario, assist you book it.

To also help avoid panic if your travel plans have fallen through, do your research before time. Are you ready to get to your next destination via taxi, train, or bus? Is there another airport within the area that you simply could also be ready to catch a flight from? Or is that the best solution to hunker down wherever you're , find a hotel for the night, and wait until tomorrow. remember of your options in your travel journal or on an inventory in your phone.

FEAR FOR MY SAFETY Fear: If I visit a replacement place, I’m getting to be pickpocketed or taken advantage of.

How To Overcome It: Unfortunately, crime can happen anywhere (even at home!). And yes, being a tourist can put a target on your back for thieves and other unsavory types. But if you retain yourself aware and take a couple of steps to form yourself a touch less conspicuous, you'll avoid most undesirable situations. First, you ought to do your research on the world you'll be staying in. check out travel forums like TripAdvisor and travel blogs to seek out out the safer neighborhoods to remain in or visit.

If you’re going out in the dark , ask the hotel front desk, or host if you’re staying at an AirBnB, if the neighborhood is safe to steer around in after dark or if they’d recommend a taxi service. When in crowds, put your camera or other expensive electronics in your bag so that they aren’t out on display. you furthermore may don’t want to stay all of your money and travel documents like your passport beat an equivalent spot. If you're pickpocketed, then you won’t be completely without money or ID.

Rule of thumb that works abroad also as in your hometown – if you’re feeling uneasy a few situation, get out of there. If you’re uncomfortable, take yourself out of things and obtain to somewhere where you are feeling safe.

FEAR OF TRAVELING ON my very own Fear: I’ll be lonely and bored if I pass by myself.

How To Overcome It: Traveling solo are often one among the foremost freeing and revelatory experiences. On my very own solo travels, not only have I learned about new cultures and seen new sights but I learned tons about myself.

I would not call myself an extrovert but i'm not a wallflower either. with none real effort, I’ve met the nicest people while traveling alone just by striking up conversations naturally when opportunities present themselves.

Another great bonus to traveling alone is that your travel plans are often very flexible. If you opt you don’t want to try to to something or start to urge bored, no problem, just don’t roll in the hay . Go do this other thing that caught your eye instead. There’s nobody that has got to accept as true with your change in plans except you.

GO OUT AND SEE THE WORLD! There will always be something to be scared of but don’t let those fears keep you from experiencing new things and exploring the world! a choice to assist ease your travel fears is to book a gaggle tour.

This takes care of all of the fears I’ve listed above – you won’t necessarily got to know the local language as your guide are going to be ready to represent you when needed. it's harder to urge lost once you are traveling with a gaggle and a guide. If there are logistical mishaps, the tour company will figure it out for you. Your guide will know which neighborhoods are safe and which of them to avoid and can allow you to know if you’re going into a situation where there could also be pickpockets sort of a city market or popular square. and eventually , you’ll meet other travelers with similar interests so albeit you book a tour on your own, you’ll presumably leave the trip with new friends.

Life’s short … don’t waste some time being afraid once you might be making unforgettable memories!

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bbwoulfc · 7 years

Text

Rough Housing Ch. 2

Tikki is just a sweet character I swear. And Adrien and Marinette are just adorable as fuck and way too innocent....well, maybe.

You can read more here: http://archiveofourown.org/works/7297537/chapters/16574029

Chapter Two: Meet Your Residence Don

Walking through the electronic sliding doors of the dorm’s entrance, the four enter the large area of the lobby. The lobby was nice in appearance. The front desk on one side where students could check out rental equipment, movies, games, pay rent, and work orders for any issues that occur in residents’ rooms. Across from the front desk in the other corner of the lobby stood two couches and two chairs, and a television to keep those waiting entertained.

Seeing the security guard situated near the entrance, the four take out their IDs and display them to the security guard to ensure that they were residents of the building. Giving the young adults a nod, the four thank the officer and continue their way across the lobby towards the courtyard.

Exiting through one of the lobby doors, they enter into the nearest first floor hallway and make their way towards the elevator. Stepping in the elevator, the four head up to the fourth floor, arriving on the south/east side of the building.

Hearing the ding of the elevator, everyone exits onto the fourth floor as Marinette and Alya lead the boys towards the south hallway where their apartment’s located.

“Where are your rooms located?” Asked Marinette to the two boys, both her and Alya curious on how far their two other group members were situated.

Adrien was the first to respond to Marinette’s question. “Our room is located on the north side of the fourth floor. So not too far you ladies.”

“That’s good to know. Now I don’t have to worry about traveling to far to get to Nino.” Said Alya.

“I wonder why?” Said Adrien, looking at Alya as he wiggles his eyebrows.

“I love you, Adrien, but I will slap that sunshine goodness out of you.” Replies Alya playfully. “I’m sure you’re smart enough to know why I’m glad yours and Nino’s apartment is close.”

A shiver and cringe of a feeling shoots through Adrien’s body. If he’s speaking truthfully, he doesn’t even want to begin moving towards that area of conversation.

“Fair enough, Alya. I just don’t want to go towards that area of discussion.” Was all Adrien offers in return.

Chuckling, Alya and the others continue their way down the hallway, moving around other student residents and parents when all four hear a voice behind them greet them with a tone of sweetness to their voice.

“Hello!”

Turning around, the four friends look to see a young woman, just slightly taller than Marinette. She was beautiful young lady with bright blue eyes, close to Marinette’s blue but a shade or two darker, a fair tan skin tone, and brownish red hair (mahogany red). She looked like a sweet little thing. A bright smile on her face. She had to be no more than two years older from them.

“I hope you four have moved in nicely and made yourselves comfortable as well as getting acquainted with the dormitory.”

All four give the young woman a smile and nod.

“I’m glad. Now, it’s probably best that I introduce myself. My name is Tikki. I’m the RA that watches over the south and east wing of the fourth floor. May I ask your names?”

Taking the initiative to answer first, Adrien politely response, “My name is Adrien.” Pointing to his friends in order, “And this is Marinette, Alya, and Nino.”

Giving a bright smile to the four, Tikki radiates in joy and excitement. “Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you four. What majors are we to expect you four going into?”

This form of discussion wasn’t new for Tikki. It was part of the duties as an RA to get to know the residents of the dormitory. Besides most of the RAs, Tikki found meeting new residents, a majority being incoming freshman, found it thrilling to learn about the new students and what kind of career paths they decide to travel on.

Then again, how could one not talk to a Tikki as she looks to always be a ray of sunshine. Marinette, Alya, and Nino feel like Tikki outshines Adrien of his sweetness and purity. Never thought anyone could beat the sunshine child. Well, they found to be wrong.

Blinking away from their short mental block, Marinette takes her turn to respond for her friends. “I’m majoring into fashion and interior design with a minor in business, Adrien is majoring in physics with a minor in teaching, Alya is majoring in journalism with a minor in business as well, and Nino is majoring in recording arts as well as minoring in business.”

Tikki claps her hands a few times in a joyous moment, her smile growing. “Oh how exciting. All those majors sound thrilling and fun. As for me, I’m majoring in history and archeology with a minor in teaching since I’m not sure whether I want to teach but it never hurts to have it under your belt. I look forward to learning more about your four. Are all of you residents of the south and east floor?”

“No.” Replied Marinette. She points to herself and Alya, “Alya and I are” -pointing to Adrien and Nino- “but Adrien and Nino’s room is located in the north side of the fourth floor.”

Tikki’s smile turns to a grin when she hears the information of Adrien and Nino being located in the north side of the fourth floor.

“The north side, huh? Well, you boys will definitely enjoy your RA. He can be quite the interesting character but he’s an amazing friend once you take the opportunity to get to know him. He’ll act grumpy but it’s really his mask to prevent with dealing with residents he finds annoying, but he can be serious if the moment calls for it. He’s my best friend and boyfriend, my partner as we both look after the entire fourth floor. Your RA’s name is Plagg. Trust me when I say it won’t be hard to miss him. He’s a tall young man” -Tikki points to Adrien- “similar to your height. Fair skin, black cat color hair, and green eyes. To make it easier for you, Plagg repetitively smells like Camembert. It’s not the greatest smell but you learn to live with it.”

“Good to know.” Chuckles Nino.

Looking at her watch wrapped around her wrist, Tikki looks to see the hallways still crowded with students and parents.

“Well then, I don’t want to take more of your time and I probably should get back to seeing if any students and parents are in need of help. I’m sure you four have plans and I wouldn’t want to keep you from them. It was a pleasure taking the moment to meet all of you and I’m looking forward to getting to know you more. If any of you are in need of anything, you can find me at my room in S401. You four have a great day.”

Turning around, Tikki walks down the hallway towards a family needing assistance as Marinette and the others continue to her and Alya’s room a few doors down. Once they reach the door, Marinette inserts her key card, hearing the locks unlock, opening the door when they hear Tikki calling out a second time.

“Oh, and one more thing.”

Everyone looks back at Tikki and wait for her to continue.

“There’s a floor meeting for the fourth floor tonight at six this evening. We’ll be in the courtyard and going over the dorm rules and such. See you guys later.”

With that said, Tikki continues her way towards the family and the four enter inside the apartment.

Once everyone enters inside, Marinette closes the door behind them as the other three head straight for the couches.

Walking into the living room herself, Marinette takes a seat next to Adrien while Alya sits beside Nino. Sitting closest to the coffee table, Alya reaches for the tv remote and turns on the television. Flipping through multiple channels until stumbling upon a popular series that everyone agreed upon.

The nice thing that came with ability to stay at this particular dormitory is that all the apartment rooms came fully furnished. Along with utilities, a flat screen television set in the living room, and cable both in the living room and individual bedrooms. Honestly, it was very well set up for a dormitory. And it doesn’t hurt to have all of this while being a freshman.

With the television on in the background, Alya turns to the others and brings up a conversation about planning a get together party.

“I figured while we’re all sitting here, I want to try and use this time to plan a get together party for tonight. You know with all our friends from collége and lycée. I wasn’t thinking of anything big, just big enough for all of us, you know simple for now. Don’t really want to take the chance to ruin our new apartment when we just moved in.”

“That would be awesome. It has been a whole summer since we’ve seen everyone. Of course, we wouldn’t have everyone here. Who is it; Alix, Kim, Nathanael, Max, Rose, Juleka, Ivan, and Mylene that all ended up here at the same university as us?” Responded Nino.

“Yea. Though, I think Sabrina is here too.” Added Marinette.

“What?” Asked Alya and Nino in surprised unison.

“I thought she was with Chloe at the University de Akuma?” Continued Alya.

“Oh no. She ditched Chloe once she had the chance and official took a stand calling out Chloe’s controlling and manipulative ways.” Adrien, Nino, and Alya look at Marinette with startled expressions. They had no idea that Sabrina would actually escape the clutches of the she-devil herself. “From the last time I talked to her, which was during the summer actually, when she stopped by the bakery one morning in which we got into a small conversation. But anyways, Sabrina told me that she was also going to attend here and is majoring in law or something related to justice where she’s aiming to be a lawyer.”

“Wow. That’s some sick shit right there.” Nino was the one to speak. “I’m proud of her. To be honest, I always felt like Sabrina could be a fun girl to hang out with, but being stuck with Chloe completely prevented her from spreading her wings to truly enjoy a good time. If you all agree, I think we should expand the invite to Sabrina. Give her the chance to catch up on what she missed with actual friends.”

“I think that would be a great idea. I’m sure Sabrina would appreciate the thought of us extending our circle to include her.” Agreed Marinette. “Though I think it would be best that we plan the get together party for another night. Since it is move in this whole week, people will be exhausted and probably busy with family. Plus, we our floor meeting with Tikki and the other RA in a bit. Probably best to plan another night.”

“I think Marinette has a good point.” Said Adrien. “Personally, I don’t think I have it in me to plan a party after moving in. Besides, posted somewhere in one of the hallways, I saw a flyer about a party along with other activities for the entire week of move in. If I remember correctly, I positive that the party is tonight for all the residents down in the courtyard tonight.”

“Oooohhh, now that sounds amazing!” Glee Alya. “Okay, we’ll move our own party for another night. Which is a good decision since it’ll give us more time to prep and plan a trip to collect alcohol and snacks, and whatever else we decide later on. This exciting. I can’t wait.”

“Alright, calm down, Alya. It’s not like we haven’t thrown a party to the same level before.” Said Marinette. Remembering the crazy and chaotic party they through at her house during their last semester of senior. She was more glad that Alya’s parents were gone for a short vacation meeting family.

“Yea, yea. Whatever you say, Mari.” Was all Alya had to say in response as she stands up and walks her way towards their kitchen. Thinking of food, Nino stands up from the couch and follows his girlfriend into the kitchen to retrieve a beverage to quench his thirst.

While those two search the kitchen, back on the couch, Marinette and Adrien readjust in comfort and turn their attention to the television, their full focus on the show playing in front of them. Marinette sits back with her hands resting in her lap as Adrien spreads his arms along the top of the couch.

In the moment of relaxation and as if on reflex, Adrien slides his right arm from the location on top of the couch and drops down to rest around Marinette’s shoulders.

Feeling the pressure and weight around her shoulders; keeping her body and head facing forward, Marinette lowers her eyes to gaze that the added weight was indeed what she expected it to be. Seeing Adrien’s arm around her shoulders brings a smile on her lips. Trying her hardest to remain relaxed while internally freaking out.

Now, it’s not like Marinette and Adrien haven’t snuggled before. During their years of lycée, Adrien would appear multiple times at the Dupain-Cheng’s house where Adrien would seek comfort from issues consisting with his father. Being the sweet and kind person she is, Marinette always opened her home to Adrien where in consisted giving him a good hearty homemade dinner with her and her parents, and then usually resulted to snuggling and watching movies where Adrien could just relax and try to bypass everything that happened that upset or destressed him previously.

She’s had Adrien put his arms around her shoulders before, even with the memory of his arms around her waist at their graduation, but for some reason having his arm around her shoulder right now felt completely different.

‘Oh my god. I can’t believe Adrien has his arm resting around my shoulder. Is this really happening? There’s no way he would purposely do this, right?’

Beside her, Adrien was reacting just as much like Marinette with the internal freak out. ‘I can’t believe I did that. I have my arm around Marinette’s shoulders. Holy shit. Okay, okay. She hasn’t pushed me or my arm away yet. Does this mean she’s okay with this? Dammit! I’m not sure what to do!’

Thinking of multiple possibilities of what this one action meant, Marinette begins to hear Alya’s voice in the back of her head about taking risks. She remembers having that discussion with her during the summer about taking risks and not be afraid when it comes to your happiness. And Alya was right, she always was. And she did agree that she’d give it a go once they entered university.

Well, here it goes. Calming herself down and taking a quiet deep breath, Marinette takes her bold move and slowly leans against Adrien, moving closer until their bodies were touching. She pushes her luck further by resting her head on top of his shoulder.

‘I can’t believe I did it!’ Gazing her eyes up to sneak a peek at Adrien, Marinette notices Adrien’s attention remaining on the tv in front of them but what caught her attention most was the redness covering his cheeks…actually, look more like his entire face. ‘Is – is Adrien blushing? No way. Maybe I can work with this. Alright, from here on out, no more of the nervous Marinette from lycée.’

If it couldn’t get any better, once she leant closer to him, Marinette could feel Adrien reflex, tightening his hold around her. ‘Holy shit! I can’t believe Mari is leaning against me. What does this mean?! Does this mean she likes me?! I wasn’t expecting this when I agreed to taking risks. Nino!’

Keeping his focus on the television, Adrien’s eyes widen further when he felt Marinette move and press herself closer against him. The blush on his face only to grow a little darker. Marinette felt lucky at the moment that Adrien couldn’t see her own blush.

From the kitchen, Nino and Alya watch on at the two, their own grins taking place along their face. Quiet snickering only occurring once they saw Adrien’s first reaction.

Nino quietly turns to Alya, “Babe, did you see Adrien’s face? Poor dude looks like he doesn’t know what to do.”

“I know. I didn’t think he’d actually ever make a move. He never did in lycee.”

“You’d have to thank me for that, Al. I told my bro he had to start taking risks if he didn’t want to lose Mari to someone else. He said he’d do it, but I was afraid he was lying.”

“Well, I think he proved you wrong. Plus, it appears our Mari is finally flirting back as well. Interesting enough, I told her something similar about taking risks.”

“Now that those two have started taking the steps, does this mean we can finally start that betting pool?”

“Oh sweetie, you know it. I’ll text the others now.”

“This is going to be so sweet.” Nino takes a sip of his drink while Alya sends a group text about meeting up with the others. Hopefully her and Nino will be able to ditch the two oblivious children to meet up with their other friends.

*****

When six rolled around that evening, all four exited Marinette and Alya’s apartment and began heading their way towards the courtyard where the floor meeting was to take place.

Taking the hallway down to the elevator and down to the first floor, all four of them exit the hallway that led to the outside and made their way to the courtyard. Reaching the general area, everyone could see other student residents gathering around the selected area. Everyone crowded and secluded in their own little groups talking or playing simple games with one another.

With the amount of students scattered around the area, they search for any available spot to sit.

Glancing around, all four notice some small space openings near the back corner of the courtyard where a section of a small cement wall houses a small area of bushes and flowers.

Moving along the maze of students, Nino finds an open spot on the grass in the corner and ushers Alya over to sit beside him. Wrapping his arm around her waist once she sat beside him. Looking to the small concrete bed housing the garden, Adrien moves and settles on the top of the cold cement wall.

Looking beside him, Adrien watches as Mari remains standing facing the courtyard overlooking the other students. With as congested as the courtyard is, he could see there wasn’t much available seating which caused him to take action on the next best thing.

“Uh, Mari?”

Marinette looks behind over her shoulder to Adrien. “Yes?”

Taking a deep breath, Adrien swallows his nerves as he stares into her addicting bluebell eyes.

“Since there’s not much available space to sit…you can s-sit on my lap…i-if you want.” Says Adrien while trying his damn near hardest to refrain the blush that’s attempting to creep along his face. Then again, how was he supposed to act when you just offered your crush to sit in your lap.

Marinette’s shoulders stiffen from the words that uttered from her crushes mouth. She knows very well that there’s not much space to sit in the courtyard, but receiving that offer was un-expecting, and just the thought of sitting in Adrien’s lap sounded amazing.

Attempting to hide and force down the blush threatening to appear on her face, she looks at Adrien fully. “A-are you sure? I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable or forced to feel obligated because there’s now available seating.” She had no idea what had gotten into her. She just promised herself that she wouldn’t be nervous anymore. Complete fail at her first sentence.

Adrien rubs the back of his neck with his hand as he looks at Marinette shyly. “I assure you, Mari. Out of anyone I know, you are the one that could never make me feel uncomfortable.” He stated confidently.

Offering him a sweet, shy smile, Marinette gives him a nod and walks over to Adrien. Sitting himself up and shifting into a comfortable, relaxing position, he reaches for Marinette’s hand, which she gladly gives him, and pulls her towards him. Turning around, Marinette leans down and sits on Adrien’s lap until she rested against part of his chest, her body in a partial sideway position.

With the height of the cement wall, both their legs dangle freely as Adrien wraps his arms around Marinette’s waist to ensure she wouldn’t slip. Not that she would or just because he really wanted to hold her close. That would be just…what, awkward?

Marinette twists her head to look at Adrien still holding her sweet smile. “Thank you.”

“Anytime.” Adrien muttered softly, falling victim to her wondrous eyes again.

As if a dome surrounded them, silence fell between them as they stared at one another adoringly. The force between them growing heavy, both unknowingly gaze at the other’s lips. Adrien felt drawn at the soft, curved, and fully pink of Marinette’s lips. He didn’t even feel himself glide his tongue along his lips, imagining what her lips could possibly taste like.

The force drawing stronger, both unknowingly begin leaning towards the other, lips coming closer in contact when a loud feminine voice rung out through the courtyard.

“HELLO EVERYONE!”

Marinette and Adrien jerk back in retreat, looking at one another, red faced as they turn their attention to the new presence as everyone look to see Tikki in the center with a man beside her of the same age. To the main four, they were sure it must be the other RA, Plagg.

“Good evening everyone! Thank you all for coming to our floor meeting. I can assure you that we’ll make this as fast as possible as I’m sure a lot of you are still trying to move in and unpacking. So to start off, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Tikki. I’m the resident assistant that looks over the south and east side of the halls. So if you need anything you can find me in S401.” Posing her hand towards her partner, “And beside me is my partner, Plagg.”

Taking that as his cue, Plagg introduces himself.

“Evening everyone. Like my partner had mentioned, my name’s Plagg. I’m the resident assistant of the fourth floor as well. I look after the west and north side. If any of you need anything you can find me in room N405.”

Not always the talker, Plagg looks at Tikki in which she takes in as her cue to lead again and explain what they had to.

“For this meeting, we wanted to go through some of the safety and rules here at the dormitory. First off, these are non-smoking buildings. If you must smoke or whatever, please do it off the premises of the property. If at all you smoke in your apartment and we are called up, it will result in a write up, documenting everything we see and find as a result. We can’t confirm what the consequences will be as it’s the decision of the managers of the dormitory and the school. So keep that in mind. As for alcohol, we know a majority of you are of age. All that we ask in accordance of alcohol is that all of you drink responsibly. It would also be in your best interest to ensure that if there is any alcohol in your room that there is no one underage with you. If we are called and find anyone underage, it will result with everyone written up. For whatever reason should there be an emergency to arise and you need medical help, please don’t hesitate to come to me and Plagg. We are here to ensure all your safety. Both Plagg and I know it’s university, it’s the time of your life to explore and have fun. All that we ask is that you all are careful and take it safely and don’t hesitate to come to us for help.”

Plagg steps up and begins speaking. “Basically in simpler terms, we both want you all to have fun, just don’t be stupid about it.”

Tikki turns and looks at Plagg with a serious expression, a brow raised. Plagg just mouths ‘what?’ to her with a shrug of his shoulders.

Giving off a huff, Tikki shakes her head and stares back at the students to continue her speech.

“We also expect you all to get along with one another. If you have any issues with your roommates or neighbors, we expect you to act like the adults you are and attempt to solve the situation yourselves. If the issue however doesn’t get resolved, then feel free to come to either Plagg and I, and we’ll help and try to solve the situation. We’re basically a big family where this dorm is to be a friendly community. As for a curfew, there is no curfew. Just make sure you have your key cards and ID’s to get back into the building. There are a lot more rules, but we know you all are busy. So please, take the time to read all the information and rules from our bulletin board that can be located by my room or Plagg’s room. So without further delay, Plagg and I are happy to have you as our residents.”

“Like wise. And before you all leave, we would like to mention that this entire week before school starts up next week on Tuesday, we as in all the staff here are holding activities and events to have fun and meet others. For tonight, we have our casino and dance night beginning at eight in the gym or auditorium…or whatever you want to call it, ballroom, whatever. The dancing will be held in there while the casino games will be scattered throughout the courtyard with a bar serving non-alcohol version drinks. For tomorrow, there will be a hike where we’ll take residents to the nearest countryside for the hiking trails. In the evening we have a battle of the bands show where upper classmen will play it out for you. For Wednesday, it’ll be a shopping spree. Some of us will take students to the nearest mall and grocery stores to stock up on whatever it is you still need. So make sure you make a list. On Thursday, we got tickets for the whole dormitory to watch the France’s soccer game.” All the students perked up. Who would have thought they’d get all these awesome opportunities in events? “As for Friday through Monday, that’s your free day to prepare for your classes. We will hold a campus tour of the university on Saturday for any of you who want help finding your classes. So I think that covers it for you guys.” Added Plagg.

“Thank you all again for coming and enjoy the rest of your evening. We hope to see all of you tonight to have fun.” Tikki stated lastly as students began standing up and making their way back to either their rooms or other locations of the dorms.

Tikki and Plagg waved all the students off and turned around to head back towards the main office and lobby area to meet up with the other staff members to finish up the last remaining tasks for the casino and dance night.

*****

With all the students trickling from the courtyard, a good majority of the fourth floor residents were heading back towards their apartments.

Taking the stairs this time, all four enter the fourth floor through the south east staircase and watch as the entire hallways were congested with students. Squeezing their way through, Marinette and Alya split Adrien and Nino when the two girls bump into a group of three girls.

“I’m so sorry.” Apologized Marinette.

The girl turns around to look at Marinette and Alya, the girl’s friends turning around as well. The girl that Marinette bumped into gave her a smile. “It’s alright. The hallways pretty crowded. So no harm done. We were just trying to make our way through. I’m assuming you two are doing the same?”

“Yes, actually. Our room is at the end. Room S414.” Responded Marinette. A smile on her face as well, feeling grateful that the three girls weren’t upset.

“No kidding. Our room is S413 across from you. We can make our way down there together.” The girl replied.

Giving a nod, Marinette and Alya follow the three other girls as they introduce each other and zigzag through the maze of students.

Back near the staircase, Adrien and Nino stood near a corner talking to a small group of girls and boys. They figured might as well make some new friends and get to know your neighbors or fellow residents. Surprisingly, Adrien and Nino found out that the group they were having a conversation with lived in the north side of the fourth floor, making it easier to continue conversations through different topics.

As the group were in the midst of their discussion, Adrien couldn’t help but gaze up from the group and glance over down the south hallway to check on Marinette and Alya. They haven’t decided their plans yet, but wouldn’t doubt that the four of them would relax in one of their apartments until the event started.

When he caught sight of their figures, Adrien noticed that the two were speaking to another three girls, all looking like they were getting along fine.

Until Adrien noticed a group of five boys turning their glances at Marinette and the others. Just seeing the way those guys were eyeing Marinette and the others made Adrien’s neck bristle. ‘How dare they stare at Marinette like that!’ The thought growling through Adrien’s head.

Taking notice of Adrien’s behavior, Nino looks at his friend and then follows his gaze until they feel on Alya, Marinette, and some other girls. Seeing the group of boys heading towards the girls.

In mid conversation, the group of boys gather beside the group of girls and cuts into their conversation.

“Hey, ladies.” Greeted one of the boys.

All the girls cease their conversation and all turn to look at the group of boys.

“You ladies heading to the casino and dance night tonight?” Asked one of the other boys.

“As a matter of fact we are.” Responded Alay, and hint of annoyance on her tongue.

“Then how about you lovely ladies accompany us gents as our dates?”

Alya snorts and chuckles, “Sorry; but some of us are already taken.”

Giving a smirk, one of the boys turns their gaze towards Marinette. He rests one of his arms against the wall and leans towards Marinette’s space.

From across the hall in the corner, a growl escapes through Adrien’s lips. Which didn’t escape earshot from Nino.

“Dude, did you seriously just growl?” Asked Nino.

“Yes.” Grunted Adrien, his teeth clamping further together tightly.

“Are you jealous?” Continued Nino.

“No.” Drawled out Adrien.

“Bro, don’t deny it.”

“Fine. Though I’m more agitated than anything. No one gets in my girl’s space.”

“Yet, she’s not your girl. This is exactly why I told you not to wait and why you should have done it years ago. I warned you that others would start taking notice.”

The two boys watched at the one boy in front of Marinette rested his other hand on the other side of Marinette. Leaning slightly closer. Adrien could see the uncomfortable look on Marinette’s face. The entire action only drew another growl from Adrien. ‘Oh hell no! No man gets into my lady’s personal space!’

“May I make a suggestion?” Adrien’s attention snaps to the girl beside him, drawing Nino’s attention as well.

Everyone looks at the girl waiting for her to continue.

“If you love that girl so much, you better make your move and show those competitors that your girl is taken and how to treat a lady.”

The girl gives Adrien a smirk and wink.

Confused at first, everything sinks in as a mischievous grin forms on Adrien’s lips and eyes. If this was his chance to take risks, Adrien gladly took it.

Rushing off from Nino and the group, Adrien slips through the crowded hallway with ease. Nino was impressed, it was like his friend was nothing but mist as he glided through the crowds. He had to say, Nino felt like this was going to be a fascinating moment to witness.

Gaining distance towards Marinette’s location, Adrien calls out, “Marinette.”

Hearing her name and the familiar voice, Marinette shifts under the eyes of the man in from of her and slips pass him as she moves towards the center of the hallway waiting for Adrien to reach her. Waiting, Marinette kept her gaze on her crush until he stops in front of her, his eyes piercing down to hers.

“A-adrien.” Asked Marinette dazedly.

Emerald eyes bore on Bluebell as Adrien made his decision without hesitation. This will demonstrate to those vultures of boys and any other boy that’s witnessing this as Adrien claim’s what’s his.

Raising his hands up, Adrien places his hands on Marinette’s cheeks, rubbing them soothingly while looking deeply into her eyes. Nothing but love sparkling and glistening through his pupils that he prays she can see too.

Everything moved quickly. Without any chance of backing out, Adrien raises Marinette’s head up and crashes his lips together with hers. The warmth of her lips was gratifying as he pressed further and feeling her respond in return. Feeling victorious, Adrien’s desired word is the only word flowing through his senses. And it felt oh so good.

‘MINE.’

#miraculous ladybug #university life #adrien agreste #marinette dupain cheng #possessive adrien #tikki #plagg #tikki x plagg #fanfic #i'm not sure what else to tag #college au #no miraculouses

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theliberaltony · 4 years

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via Politics – FiveThirtyEight

Election season once again forges ahead on Tuesday, as five states — Georgia, Nevada, North Dakota, South Carolina and West Virginia — hold their down-ballot primaries.1 So here’s a look at today’s key races — including whom Democrats will nominate in a crucial Senate race and whether a party-switching governor will go down in defeat in West Virginia:

Georgia

Races to watch: U.S. Senate; 7th, 9th and 14th congressional districts Polls close: 7 p.m. Eastern

Georgia has two competitive Senate races this year, but only one holds its primary today.2 It’s a crowded race, too, with seven Democrats vying for the right to take on Republican Sen. David Perdue; however, only three are serious contenders. Election junkies will be intimately familiar with one of them: Jon Ossoff, the investigative filmmaker who grabbed national attention in 2017 as the party’s candidate in a closer-than-expected congressional special election. Ossoff raised more money for that campaign than any House candidate in history, and he’s the party’s top fundraiser in this year’s Senate race too, raking in $4.1 million through May 20 (including half a million left over from his congressional bid).

However, Ossoff faces some stiff competition for the nomination. Former Columbus Mayor Teresa Tomlinson raised $2.5 million and has touted her two terms as mayor of Georgia’s third-largest city against Ossoff’s lack of experience. A third contender, 2018 lieutenant governor candidate Sarah Riggs Amico, has raised $1.7 million, although $933,400 of that was self-funded. Amico has tried to build on her past profile, running ads tying herself to former Democratic gubernatorial nominee Stacey Abrams and their most prominent 2018 endorser, former President Barack Obama.

Under Georgia law, the race will go to an Aug. 11 runoff if no one gets a majority of the vote today, but two recent polls suggest Ossoff could do just that. He received 42 percent support in a Landmark Communications poll for WSB-TV and 49 percent in a Cygnal poll for an unspecified client. Meanwhile, Tomlinson received 14-16 percent and Amico 8-9 percent in both surveys, making Tomlinson the likeliest to find herself in a runoff with Ossoff if it happens.

Both parties will also choose their nominees in the 7th Congressional District, a suburban Atlanta seat that is a prime example of the Sun Belt’s emerging swing districts: According to calculations by Daily Kos Elections, it went from supporting Mitt Romney by 22 points in 2012 to supporting President Trump by 6 points in 2016 to being the closest U.S. House race in the entire country in 2018. After winning by just 433 votes, GOP Rep. Rob Woodall quickly announced his retirement, and a crowded field is now jockeying to succeed him. Like Georgia’s Senate race, it seems there’s a good chance of a runoff, too.

On the Democratic side, public policy professor Carolyn Bourdeaux, the candidate who almost beat Woodall in 2018, has the inside track with her preexisting name recognition and $1.7 million raised. However, two big names in Georgia Democratic politics — former Sen. Max Cleland and former Gov. Roy Barnes — caused a stir when they unendorsed Bourdeaux in order to support Air Force veteran and state Sen. Zahra Karinshak. And don’t count out activist Nabilah Islam, who raised more than $619,000 and enjoys the endorsement of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and state Rep. Brenda Lopez Romero, considered a rising star in the state party.

For Republicans, military veteran Dr. Richard McCormick leads the “anti-establishment conservative” lane: He’s been endorsed by the political arm of the House Freedom Caucus and the Club for Growth, which has poured almost half a million dollars into the race. His main opponent, state Sen. Renee Unterman, is hard to peg ideologically: She has a terrible relationship with Republican leadership after being ousted as chair of the Senate Health Committee, but she was also a leading supporter of Georgia’s new law to ban abortions once fetal cardiac activity can be detected. And former Home Depot executive Lynne Homrich has nearly matched McCormick and Unterman on the fundraising front — all three have amassed around $1 million (including varying levels of self-funding). A May poll by WPA Intelligence sponsored by the Club for Growth (so take it with a grain of salt) gave McCormick 41 percent, Unterman 23 percent, Homrich 7 percent and all other candidates 5 percent.

In addition, there are two open seats — the 9th District and the 14th District — with wide-open Republican primaries. However, they are two of the reddest districts in the entire House and will likely remain GOP territory, but they have not been without drama. Republican primary candidates state Rep. Matt Gurtler in the 9th and businesswoman Marjorie Greene in the 14th both faced controversy after photos emerged of them posing with a notorious local white supremacist. Facebook also recently took down one of Greene’s campaign videos that showed her arming a semi-automatic rifle and telling “antifa terrorists” to “stay the hell out of Northwest Georgia.”

South Carolina

Races to watch: 1st Congressional District Polls close: 7 p.m. Eastern

In South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, the Republican primary is the race to watch. The winner will face Rep. Joe Cunningham, one of the most vulnerable Democrats in the House, in a seat that voted for Trump by 13 points. If Republican front-runners state Rep. Nancy Mace or Mount Pleasant Town Councilwoman Kathy Landing go on to win in November, it could help the GOP expand its small base of female House members.

Mace looks to have a leg up on Landing, with support from House Republican leadership and the Club for Growth, which has spent just over $500,000. Mace has also raised more than twice as much as Landing — $1.4 million to $630,000 — and she led Landing by 29 points in an April WPA Intelligence survey, though the poll was sponsored by the Club for Growth. As the first woman to graduate from The Citadel, the military college located in Charleston, Mace has a compelling story, too, but don’t discount Landing — she has the endorsement of former Sen. Jim DeMint and national groups such as the Republican Main Street Partnership PAC, Right Women PAC and House Freedom Fund. Landing has attacked Mace for failing to oppose abortion, arguing that Mace is “not much different” from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi because Mace didn’t join other South Carolina politicians in signing a legal brief to call for the defunding of Planned Parenthood. Previously, Mace supported rape and incest exceptions in South Carolina’s bill to ban abortions once fetal cardiac activity can be detected, sharing in a floor speech that she had been raped at 16.

Two other candidates are contesting the primary, so if neither Mace nor Landing win a majority today, a runoff between the top two vote-getters will take place on June 23.

West Virginia

Races to watch: Governor Polls close: 7:30 p.m. Eastern

Republican Gov. Jim Justice, who switched parties in 2017 after winning as a Democrat in 2016, is seeking renomination now as a Republican. And back in April, he appeared vulnerable because of mediocre approval ratings, a spluttering response to the coronavirus pandemic and public opposition from some GOP county committees. But he seems to be on firmer footing now due to his performance in daily news conferences on the health crisis, public exposure his rivals cannot easily counter.

The billionaire coal magnate has touted himself as a “straight shooter” in an ad where he’s skeet shooting. Justice also has Trump’s endorsement, which can’t hurt in a state the president carried by 42 points in 2016. But even though Justice has largely self-funded his campaign, he’s actually been outspent nearly two to one by former West Virginia Secretary of Commerce Woody Thrasher, who’s almost entirely self-funding. Like Justice, Thrasher is a former Democrat, and he actually served in Justice’s administration until 2018. The other candidate making some noise in the race is former state Del. Mike Folk, who also happens to be the lone GOP contender to win an election as a Republican. Yet Justice appears to be in good shape: A Triton Research & Polling/WMOV poll in late May found Justice at 53 percent, well ahead of Folk (15 percent) and Thrasher (14 percent).

Conversely, the Democratic primary looks very competitive, as the Triton survey found Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango at 30 percent, community organizer Stephen Smith at 27 percent and state Sen. Ron Stollings at about 10 percent. The relatively moderate Salango, who has Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin’s endorsement, and the more progressive Smith have similar fundraising numbers that put them well ahead of Stollings. But given West Virginia’s rapid shift to the right in recent years, the Democratic winner will be a long shot in the general election.

Nevada

Races to watch: 3rd and 4th congressional districts Polls close: 10 p.m. Eastern

A fractious GOP race featuring former wrestler Dan Rodimer and former state Treasurer Dan Schwartz will decide who faces Democratic Rep. Susie Lee in the swingy Nevada 3rd District. At this point, Rodimer looks favored to some extent. He’s raised around $750,000 ($165,000 of which is his own money) and earned support from House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and the National Rifle Association. But Schwartz, who lost badly in the 2018 GOP gubernatorial primary, has loaned his campaign nearly $580,000 and run ads attacking Rodimer for a past battery arrest. Meanwhile, ESAFund, a conservative super PAC, is running ads accusing Scwhartz of being a career politician, calling him “swamp Dan Schwartz.” But whichever Republican wins today, he will enter the general election campaign as an underdog against Lee, who has $2 million in her campaign account.

Lastly, in the 4th District, Democratic Rep. Steven Horsford could be vulnerable in November after admitting to an extramarital affair last month, as such scandals can hurt a candidate’s vote share. It’s not clear which of the eight GOP candidates will win today’s primary — perhaps former state Assemblyman Jim Marchant or businesswoman Lisa Song Sutton, both of whom were identified by the National Republican Congressional Committee’s Young Guns program as potentially competitive candidates — but even still, Horsford will likely start the general election campaign as a favorite.

We’ll be watching to see how these closely watched races play out tonight. And although we won’t have a live blog, make sure to check back for our reactions to what happened in these key primary contests and what the results might mean for November.

#IFTTT #Politics – FiveThirtyEight #politics #538 #Geoffrey Skelley and Nathaniel Rakich

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jobsearchtips02 · 4 years

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This is the iPhone 12’s leaked redesign, and it’s sensational– does it even matter?

Apple turned the smart device market on its head back in 2007 when it launched the original iPhone. All the significant players at the time would see their whole mobile phone services fall apart to the ground in the coming years, consisting of giants back then like Nokia and Microsoft. They were in rejection and declined to adapt in spite of the truth that much of us understood the iPhone was clearly the method forward. It was easy, it was sleek, it was clever, and it was a huge enhancement compared to the overcomplicated plastic bricks that controlled the market in the very first half of the years.

In the years that followed, Apple’s iPhone business became an unstoppable rocket that released the company into the stratosphere. Even as Android passed iOS in terms of worldwide market share, Apple continued to rake in the majority of the industry’s profits each quarter. Naturally, the kind of trajectory Apple had actually delighted in for years wasn’t sustainable. iPhone sales development ultimately had to slow, and slow it did. That is obviously why other areas of Apple’s service like services and devices have actually become so crucial. The iPhone is still accountable for over half of Apple’s earnings each quarter however, most recently reaching $5596 billion in the fiscal first quarter, the outcomes of which were released earlier this week. There’s something particularly interesting about Apple’s performance throughout the vacation quarter, and no one seems to be talking about it. What’s more, it draws into question whether the iPhone 12’s upcoming style overhaul is really as big a deal as people seem to think it is.

Apple fans love iPhones. The iPhone is what draws individuals to the company these days and makes them Apple fans. It was the Mac, then in the early 2000 s it was the iPod. Absolutely nothing has actually drawn crowds like Apple’s iPhones. They have actually made Apple the most profitable customer electronic devices company in history, and the most significant company on the planet by market capitalization.

Part of Apple’s playbook in the early days of the iPhone was to increase the pace at which smart device users upgraded their handsets. Apple accomplished this by releasing new models each year with big upgrades. Apple would release a new iPhone with the exact same design, however it would load enhanced performance and new marquee functions like Siri or Touch ID. Then, it would launch a new iPhone with an overhauled style. This two-year iPhone release cycle played a massive function in Apple’s success right up until 2014, when the business made a substantial change to its playbook.

Beginning with the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, Apple moved from a two-year iPhone style cycle to a three-year cycle. And if there’s one broad problem Apple fans have about the iPhone, that’s it: The iPhone has actually ended up being a bit more “boring” because Apple releases phones that look nearly similar 3 years in a row.

This is a complaint we get all the time from readers, and we see similar things on social media pretty often. Hardcore fans constantly have to get their hands on the most recent and greatest Apple gizmos, and iPhones are more pricey now than ever in the past. With that in mind, spending as much as $1,500 on an iPhone only to invest another $1,500 a year later a new iPhone that looks the same certainly isn’t perfect. That said, iPhones are likewise quicker and more effective than ever previously. Most of iPhone users hang onto their phones for at least 2 or 3 years, which implies Apple’s new three-year design cycle isn’t a very big offer at all.

Grievances constantly sound the loudest on the web, and we’re seeing that play out yet once again right now. In spite of the fact that a singing minority weren’t delighted at all when Apple revealed an iPhone 11 in 2019 that looked nearly precisely like its iPhone XS from 2018 and the iPhone X from 2017, most of individuals didn’t mind at all. How do we understand? Since Apple simply announced record holiday-quarter outcomes that consisted of $5596 billion in iPhone sales. That figure is up 8%on-year, which is rather outstanding thinking about market watchers’ outlook on the high-end mobile phone market. And what’s more, the business confirmed on its incomes call that the iPhone 11 has actually been Apple’s very popular iPhone model every single week because it was first launched this past September.

Image Source: ConceptsiPhone, YouTube

Apple’s brand-new iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max are already beginning to dominate the conversation right now because leakages are beginning to pick up. One of the big draws for these next-generation iPhones will be a rejuvenated design, which top Apple expert Ming-Chi Kuo says will be a modernization of the iPhone 5 design everyone enjoyed with flat metal edges. While hardcore Apple fans may be bored with the current iPhone design that was very first presented back in 2017, it’s quite clear that the majority of smart device consumers out there are unfazed.

With all that in mind, Apple’s three-year style cycle makes even more sense. According to newly-released data from marketing research firm Strategy Analytics, Apple restored its position as the top-selling smart device in the world last quarter. If it can do that with an iPhone design that’s 3 years old, why would it redesign its handsets any faster?

Image Source: Zach Epstein, BGR

Zach Epstein has operated in and around ICT for more than a years, initially in marketing and service advancement with two personal telcos, then as an author and editor covering organisation news, customer electronic devices and telecommunications. Zach’s work has actually been priced estimate by numerous top news publications. He was likewise just recently called one of the world’s top-10 “power mobile influencers” by Forbes, as well as among Inc. Magazine’s top-30 Internet of Things professionals.

from Job Search Tips https://jobsearchtips.net/this-is-the-iphone-12s-leaked-redesign-and-its-sensational-does-it-even-matter/

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frontproofmedia · 5 years

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Errol Spence Jr. Unifies Welterweight Titles Against Shawn Porter in Epic Action Fight

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Published: September 29, 2019

LOS ANGELES (September 29, 2019) - Errol "The Truth" Spence Jr. (26-0, 21 KOs) unified the IBF and WBC Welterweight World Titles Saturday night against two-time champion "Showtime" Shawn Porter (30-3-1,17 KOs) in an action-packed main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

"It feels good to win," said Spence. "This is a lifetime dream. It shows hard work pays off. Thanks, Shawn Porter, my whole team and all my Texas people for coming out."

The back and forth brawl immediately garnered well-deserved Fight of the Year conversation as the two welterweight champions traded power punches from the opening bell to the end. Porter showed his trademark aggressive style throughout the action, smothering Spence while throwing his own power punches.

"Shawn Porter is a rough and awkward fighter," said Spence. "I didn't get off what I wanted to. He's a true champion. He made it tough."

That left it up to Spence to weather the oncoming storm and find spots to land power punches of his own. According to CompuBox, Spence landed 44% of his power punches, to 25% from Porter.

"He's a strong kid," said Porter. "We both came in to do the job. I think I had a little more than what he expected, but he handled it. Congratulations to him and his team. We're proud of what we did."

In round four, Porter had Spence in some trouble, as his power shots to the head and body put Spence on the defensive. The strategy from Porter stayed the same throughout, as Spence began to adjust and find a home for his offense, especially the sweeping left hook.

Round eight saw the action taken up to yet another level as Spence initially got the worst of one of the numerous exchanges, before settling in and responding enough to keep Porter at bay. The high-octane fight continued to entertain heading into the championship rounds with the fight up in the balance.

Spence landed one of the decisive blows of the bout in round 11, connecting flush with that sweeping left hook and scoring a knockdown when Porter's knee and glove hit the canvas. As expected, Porter rebounded strong, going at Spence and putting him on the back foot for most of the remainder of the round.

"I think that knockdown was the difference," said Porter. "I couldn't come back to the corner with my head down after that."

The final round was more of the same, with both fighters going toe-to-toe and leaving the STAPLES Center crowd on their feet and roaring until the final bell. The final punch stats saw both men throw nearly an equal number of punches, with Spence edging Porter 745 to 744 in punches thrown and 221 to 172 in punches landed.

"All my punches have bad intentions," said Spence. "By boxing Mikey Garcia, I wanted to show people I could do it with that style. Porter was throwing a lot. I wanted to show I was the bigger and stronger welterweight."

After 12 rounds the close nature of the fight yielded a split decision from the judges. One judge saw the fight 115-112 for Porter, overruled by two judges who saw it 116-111 for Spence. In the ring after the fight, Spence was confronted and called out by former two-division champion Danny Garcia for a potential showdown next.

"It was a top dog fight tonight," said Garcia. "I want you next Errol. It was a tough rugged fight. Shawn Porter is a tough fighter. I'm here to say I want next."

"My how the tables have turned," said Spence. "I've told my team, you line them up, I'll knock them down."

Spence vs. Porter highlights here, here, here and here.

The pay-per-view co-main event saw unbeaten David "El Bandera Roja" Benavidez (22-0, 19 KOs) regain the WBC Super Middleweight World Championship from two-time champion Anthony "The Dog" Dirrell (33-2-1, 24 KOs) with a ninth-round TKO victory.

"Everything just fell in place perfectly," said Benavidez. "From the suspension to all the big fights I've been in. All of that helped me out in this fight. I did not make a mistake or open myself up more than I needed to. I worked behind my jab and got the stoppage. Things are going to get better and get tougher and I'm ready for the challenge."

The fight followed a similar pattern throughout, with Benavidez stalking his opponent looking to unload power shots, while Dirrell circled the ring looking to counter and keep him at bay with his jab.

Benavidez stayed in control through the early rounds, until Dirrell turned the tables momentarily in round four trying to batter Benavidez against the ropes, but he was unable to daze the 22-year-old.

In round six Benavidez broke through with a critical moment in the fight, landing a punch that opened up a cut over Dirrell's right eye. With the blood pouring, the cut was immediately a problem for Dirrell, who now had limited vision to stop the incoming assault.

"He hit me with a clean shot," said Dirrell. "That's my first time ever being cut by a punch. It opened up. There was nothing I could do about it. I couldn't see the whole fight after that. My corner did a good job on it, but I really couldn't see."

Despite having his cut checked by the ringside physician in rounds six, seven and eight, Dirrell was able to use his veteran savvy to stay in the fight. As the fight went to round nine Benavidez increased his offense, slowing Dirrell down enough where he could tee off with power punches in the corner.

As Dirrell tried to navigate away from Benavidez's offense, he began to take take more punishment and looked shaky on his feet. Referee Thomas Taylor officially stopped the fight 1:39 into the round, at the direction of Dirrell's corner. Benavidez ended the fight with a 165 to 94 advantage in punches landed, with the biggest margin coming from his 101 power shots landed to just 41 from Dirrell.

"There are so many emotions coming at me at once," said Benavidez. "We put so much hard work into this training camp. We left home and were away from everything. But I had the dream to become the youngest two-time super middleweight world champion and I made my dreams come true."

"I would have kept going in there," said Dirrell. "I'm not quitting against anybody. Everyone saw I didn't go down. My legs were still strong, but I couldn't do anything about it.

"We're going back to the drawing board. I'm still fighting. We won't end on a loss. You can put anybody in there with me."

Watch highlights of Dirrell vs. Benavidez here, here and here.

Additional action saw undefeated Mario "El Azteca" Barrios (25-0, 16 KOs) score a close unanimous decision victory over Batyr Akhmedov (7-1, 6 KOs) to capture the WBA Super Lightweight title in an action packed fight.

"I knew this was going to be a war," said Barrios. "He was getting dirty in there but the Mexican warrior in me was not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I dug deep and got the victory."

The action began with Akhmedov trying to get inside against his taller opponent, while Barrios looked to move and punish Akhmedov with pot shots from the outside. In round four, Barrios connected with a combo that stunned Akhmedov before Barrios followed up and scored a knockdown when Akhmedov's glove touched the canvas.

"The plan was to gradually grow the activity," said Akhmedov. "I knew that I had to win by a wide margin. After the first knockdown, I knew that I had to add activity more quickly than I had planned. So I started being more aggressive. I did everything I could to try to stop him."

After surviving the round, Akhmedov picked up the aggression and began effectively closing the space down between his opponent. He began to land numerous clean left and right hooks that put Barrios on the defensive.

As the championship rounds neared, Barrios began to experience severe swelling in his left eye amidst the onslaught from Akhmedov. In the final round, Barrios was able to turn the tide back in his favor late in the frame. He delivered a pinpoint right hand that stunned Akhmdov and again forced him to put a glove on the mat.

After the knockdown, the fight went to the judges scores, who saw the fight 116-11, 115-11 and 114-112, all in favor of Barrios. The relentless pursuit after the first knockdown from Barrios ended with him holding a 238 to 135 advantage in punches landed, but it was not enough to sway the judges on this night.

"I promised my city of San Antonio that I would bring this title back home and I did it," said Barrios.

"The judges see better than I can from the ring," said Akhmedov. "I did everything I could. I thought I won the fight. They decided that he won the fight. When I watch the fight I'll be able to tell you what it looked like. My job is to do everything to win. The judges are supposed to judge correctly.

"I tried to do everything I could. I was told that I wouldn't be able to handle his experience, but he was on the ropes most of the fight. I beat him up and I thought I won the fight."

The opening bout of the pay-per-view saw Josesito "The Riverside Rocky" Lopez (37-8, 20 KOs) knock out John Molina Jr. (30-9, 24 KOs) in the eighth round of their welterweight fight.

"We both carry power in our hands so it wasn't a surprise someone went down," said Lopez. "It easily could have happened to me with the power he has. I was able to catch him early, find openings and get the finish."

Lopez landed a critical blow on his first punch of the night, snapping off an overhand right that connected flush with Molina and put him on the canvas early in the first round. Lopez was patient following up and eventually landed a vicious body shot that put Molina down for the second time in the round.

Molina was able to rise to his feet and make it to the second round, and showed flashes that he might be able to change the tide of the fight. He slowed Lopez's attack down in round two with a vicious combination of right and left hooks to the head.

"You can never take the fight out of a fighter," said Molina. "I have a never say die attitude and I have my whole career. It was a tough fight, but the better man won tonight."

"I knew he wasn't going to quit," said Lopez. "He's a warrior. I had to keep on the pressure. I was thinking that hopefully the ref and the team made the right call to finish it at the right time."

Lopez stayed patient however and jabbed while looking to set up the right hand that had knocked Molina down in the first. In round seven Lopez broke through again, this time landing a perfect straight right hand that put Molia on the canvas late in the round.

After a long look from the ringside physician and his own corner, Molina tried to take his chance at a fight-changing punch in the eighth round. Early in the round, Lopez was able to land several big power shots that prompted referee Ray Corona to stop the bout 39 seconds into the round.

"I wanted to keep going at the end," said Molina. "I thought I was still coherent and could still move well. But you can't go against what the referees say."

"There's a lot more 'Riverside Rocky' left," said Lopez. "Robert Garcia has turned my career around. I'm a race car and like NASCAR, I've got a whole team behind me. I'm a top 10-level fighter. I'm going to give any fighter and any world champion a run for their money. I want memorable fights and I want the best."

Watch Lopez drop Molina in round one here and round seven here.

The main event of prelims on FS1 saw former three-time world champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) earn a unanimous decision victory over Jerry Thomas (14-2-1, 8 KOs) in their 10-round welterweight fight.

The early rounds were strategic, as Thomas relied on his movement while Guerrero looked to fire jabs patiently until he found opportunities for his power punches. Round three saw action jump up a bit as Guerrero landed a big straight left that pushed Thomas hard back into the ropes.

"I got some rounds in tonight, which was valuable," said Guerrero. "We got what we needed and boxed our way to victory."

Guerrero continued to stalk Thomas and attack the body as his opponent spent most of the fight set on circling the ring. However, in round nine, Thomas upped the presser and closed the distance on Guerrero. He landed numerous power shots that put Guerrero on the back foot.

It was Thomas' best round of the fight, but he was unable to put Guerrero down or out and after 10 rounds the fight was in the judges' hands. All three saw the bout in favor of Guerrero, by scores of 98-92 and 99-91 twice.

"I want to get back into those bigger fights," said Guerrero. "I moved around and stayed smart in there tonight. The goal was to stick to the game plan and I did until the end of the fight, but then I got right back on it. You just have to keep working out the kinks and that's what I'm going to keep doing."

In the opening prelims bout, unbeaten top prospect Joey Spencer (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a third-round stoppage of previously unbeaten Travis Gambardella (5-1-2, 2 KOs) in their super welterweight contest.

Spencer started the action early, leading with power shots while also controlling the distance between him and his opponent. A series of body shots put Gambardella down twice in the first round, although he was able to make it to the closing bell of the frame.

"The body shots weren't really the plan going in," said Spencer. "I started off with head shots and he was taking those well. I put one downstairs and I instantly saw it affect him badly. I knew it was a wrap. I was going to keep going to the body."

Spencer landed a powerful straight right hand to Gambardella's head early in round two and quickly followed up with a flurry punctuated by another body shot that dropped him for the third time in the fight. Although Spencer looked to close hard, Gambardella was able to fight intelligently and make it through another round.

"I thought the referee was going to stop it in the second round," said Spencer. "When he let him go I took a deep breath and made sure not to punch myself out. I stuck to my jab and let the rest take care of itself."

Early into round three, Spencer went back on the attack and connected with a big left hook to Gambardella's head. This time, referee Ray Corona jumped in and halted the bout 53 seconds into the round, giving Spencer the TKO victory.

"I'm so happy with the improvements that I was able to show tonight on the big stage," said Spencer. "I'm really excited for what's to come."

Watch highlights from Spencer here.

(Featured Photo: Jose Miranda/Frontproof Media)

#HF #Errol Spence Jr.#Shawn Porter #PBC on FOX

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