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#someone had to carry Charlie for 9 months
zelraiya · 3 months
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Fym “men can’t get pregnant.”?
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What are these then?!?!
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alfalfapie · 6 months
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Trick or Treat
So maybe they were being a little over the top about this. On second thought, they were being WAY over the top on this. Not that he cared. See, growing up, Halloween had never been Dean's favorite time of year. It simply reminded him of how different he was from other kids. Other kids didn't know that the things they dressed up as were real. That ghosts, vampires, and werewolves could strike at any moment, ESPECIALLY on October 31st. So instead of running around a cul-de-sac begging strangers for candy, Dean had to watch his little brother in some rundown motel while John went and caught the monster of the week. And once Sammy got old enough to know what Halloween was, all night would just be filled with him whining to know why they weren't allowed to trick-or-treat like the other kids. The only time they ever got to go was when Dean was 10 and they were staying at Bobby's. Sammy ate so many Reese's cups he was up half the night sick, so it wasn't that much fun anyways. But this year was different. Cas was back from the Empty, Jack had reverted to a body that looked more like he actually was born in 2017, and everyone he loved was living under one stable roof. Plus, he and Cas had just adopted a baby girl, coincidentally named Charlie. She was just over 9 months old and was already the light of Dean's life. And Dean had big plans for her first Halloween. Charlie was not going to grow up hating Halloween like he did. She was going to dress up as whatever the hell she wanted, eat as much candy as she wanted (preferably less than 6 year old Sammy), and enjoy Halloween. But for now, she couldn't do any of that. So they were going to do the next best thing. Cas had seen a Tiktok of a mom carving a big pumpkin to serve as a baby seat. So, when they went out grocery shopping that week, they HAD to get a pumpkin to try it out. They spent an embarrassingly long time measuring pumpkins against their 9-month-old until they found the perfect gourd. When they got home, Jack already had his Halloween costume on (it was a Batman kit from Amazon and he'd refused to take it off ever since it had arrived), so it was the perfect time for a little Halloween festivities. Cas started carving the pumpkin while Dean went to go put baby Charlie in her costume. It was a simple orange onesie with a pumpkin hat, but it took longer than he'd like to admit to get it on. Charlie was particularly bothered by the elastic that attached the hat to her head, so it took a little coaxing to get her to leave it alone (he may or may not have started singing monster mash in an effort to calm her down). By the time Dean carried Charlie back into the main room, Cas was almost done with the pumpkin chair. Jack was helping (at least he said he was, but "helping" looked an awful lot like playing with the pumpkin guts). Miracle came running up to him, and it looked like someone had already put her in her Robin costume. Her little green eye mask was impressively staying put (Dean later found out Sam had spelled it on). Miracle barked at Dean, obviously annoyed to have her costume on, but Dean just patted her head and walked over to the map table. "It looks great," Dean said, wrapping his free arm around Cas's waist. "You almost ready for the picture?" Cas turned the pumpkin to face Dean, proudly displaying his handiwork. "Let's do this." In the end, it took almost an HOUR to get the pictures taken. Either Miracle was running off, Jack was fidgeting, or Charlie was crying. And trying to get all three of them to look in the same direction was a fool's errand. But once Charlie was down for a nap and Jack was playing with his trucks, Cas and Dean took some time to look at their camera roll. And it was exactly what Dean had wanted; Charlie and Jack were both smiling, blissfully unaware that Halloween could be something bad. They both looked happy, and that was all he could ever ask for. Happy Halloween, y'all. :)
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fnafwritings · 6 months
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soooo what's this springtrap!michael concept you mentioned?? :o
A bit of exactly how it sounds! Basically instead of William being the one springlocked, it's Michael after being mistaken for his father--it's actually part of a larger story I'm working on (re-writing actually from like, 9 years ago), but essentially I wanted to spin the lore like I spin my blorbos in my mind like a microwave.
But allow me to offer you a snippet of a scene that's been rolling around in my brain for a while:
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You're not quite sure what to say for a while. It had been silent from when you dragged him out of the building to the moment he finally slumped down the wall of your dimly-lit kitchen, the only sign of life being the flickering pinprick of light coming from the animatronic suit's own eyes.
Spring Bonnie's eyes?.... Michael's eyes? It's nearly impossible to put a label on something so intrinsically tied together, but your brain desperately tries to find an adequate answer for a few more breaths before a sudden motion makes you flinch.
"A̴̬̓ȓ̴͉e̸̘͆ ̴̱̐y̷͉͠oū̵͉ ̵̡̌oḳ̶̍a̵̹̾y̶̧͂?̴̥̾" though electronically garbled, the voice is familiar--you'd been working with Michael for months as he trained you after all, and the training audios had been a lifesaving comfort on many a night shift in the restaurant.
It sounds as if it was coming through two or three speakers in sequence, but it at least still carried an ironic warmth. You try and fail for a few moments to meet your gaze with his, and even try to purse your lips together in an attempt of a smile that ends up feeling empty.
"I'm the one that should be asking you that," you finally whisper, a total loss for words beyond the most obvious and forefront. "I'm... I'm not the one who was... shoved inside an old springlock suit--a-and..."
The words trail off, but the intent was clear enough. He shouldn't be alive--or, well, whatever state of being he was in right now. Whatever he was even before someone had shoved him into the suit.
That was for when you had enough energy for another panic attack.
Michael--because you weren't going to call him an it--peered at you with glowing, unemotive eyes. If it was hard to read him before, it was absolutely impossible now.
"I̵'̷m̴ ̴j̷u̸s̵t̴ ̸a̸s̴ ̴c̸o̸n̵f̵u̷s̶e̵d̵ ̴a̸s̴ ̶y̷o̶u̴ ̸r̴i̵g̸h̶t̵ ̶n̴o̵w̸," he finally says through static and electronic gibberish. "I̶n̶ ̸m̷o̴r̴e̸ ̴w̴a̷y̵s̵-" he reached a golden fist up and thumped it against the center of the suit's body where the voice modulator likely was embedded. "-In more ways than one."
"He's alive at least," a soft whisper echoes from over your shoulder. Though you don't need to turn to know who the speaker is, the mask of the puppet is an empty white face of enigma, a beacon in an otherwise dark room; only the pinpricks of light indicate that he is anything other than a lifeless marionette.
Your eyes narrow and a question rests on the tip of your tongue. The puppet--Charlie--answers almost instantly.
"I didn't make his soul possess the suit."
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bi-bard · 1 year
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Pacific - Twelfth Doctor Imagine [Doctor Who]
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Title: Pacific
Pairing: Twelfth Doctor X Reader
Based On: Pacific
Word Count: 1,117 words
Warning(s): mention of violence
Summary: The Doctor saves a kingdom from falling apart. The soon-to-be-ruler finds themself intrigued with the man who to literally fall from the sky. That man offers (Y/n) a chance to see so much more than the world that they know for most of their life.
Author's Note: Another instrumental song. These are so weird to write for.
Part Two of March [Release Date: 4/7/2023]
Part Three of March [Release Date: 4/9/2023]
YEARBOOK - SLEEPING AT LAST WRITING CHALLENGE MASTERLIST
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My story with the Doctor started with him stumbling into my throne room.
In a situation where I would have immediately been worried, I found myself chuckling. In a situation where I would commonly follow the thoughts of Charlie- the man in charge of my army, I found myself holding up a hand.
"Who are you," I asked.
The Doctor looked at me. "Am I interrupting?"
"A bit," I replied. "Now, answer my question."
"I'm the Doctor," he said. "Nice to meet you. Are you the leader of this great kingdom?"
"You didn't know that before stumbling into the throne room?"
"It wasn't a priority to me," he shrugged. "A bit busy, you see."
"Care to share what is making you so busy?"
"Well, you're all about to die."
My eyes widened a bit at his bluntness. "Excuse me?"
And thus began the most chaotic day of my life.
I had never imagined facing a risk like the Doctor had recognized. Yet he was right. My entire kingdom, all of the people that I had tried so hard to take care of, were in danger.
It was strange to trust someone as fast as I had trusted the Doctor.
I don't know why I did. Maybe it was just how he spoke or how he carried himself. Or maybe it was just some instinct in my stomach that told me that he was safe. At the end of the day, all that mattered was that I did trust him.
He was the closest thing that I had seen to a genius.
He could go on mile-long speeches about different creatures and points in history. He told stories about places that I never heard of before, never mind had the chance to call them nothing more than dreams.
And I knew that I could listen for days on end about these fantastical planets that simply seemed too good to be true.
In the first matter of hours that I knew the Doctor, I saw the breathing equivalent of a burning star. And either he wasn't aware of it or he refused to believe it.
A hero that never wanted the medal.
When it was all over and done with, Charlie and I walked with the Doctor back to his ship, which he had tucked away in some back hallway.
Apparently, that was an accident.
He stood by the door as he said his farewells. I was just stepping away when he decided to stop.
"You could go with me," he said.
I paused, turning around to face him again. "Excuse me?"
"I can see the curiosity in your eyes," he noted. "You're not very good at hiding it. Come with me. I'll show you all those things that you're so curious about."
"I... I can't," I explained. "I... I have people relying on me. A lot of people. It would selfish and careless to jump into some strange traveling box and leave them with no leader."
A smile stretched on the Doctor's face as if he had been waiting for the chance to explain the "traveling box". "That's the best part."
"The best part?"
"This box doesn't just travel to planets and different galaxies... it travels through time," he stepped closer to me. "You could spend weeks, months even, traveling with me and I would have you home before dinner."
I paused again.
I considered it. I truly considered it.
I looked at Charlie. He looked nervous.
"For the duration of my absence, I am leaving you in charge," I said firmly.
"What," he asked. "No, I couldn't-"
"You have seen the kingdom function for as long as I have," I stopped him. "You are one of the best men I know. You are the only one that I would ever trust with this."
He looked down for a moment.
"And like he said," I continued, "It's a time machine. I could be back in an hour but have been to the other side of the universe."
He took a deep breath.
"I'm coming back, Charlie," I said. "I promise-"
He pulled me into a tight hug before I could continue speaking. I grinned a bit before hugging him back. I closed my eyes. He very rarely hugged me. Something about respect and honor. I retorted that it would be less respectful to never hug your ruler when they ask so politely. He laughed at that.
"Go," he muttered. "Tell me about the universe when you come home."
I leaned back. "Of course."
I turned back to the Doctor, who was still grinning at me. I grinned back at him.
"Ready," he asked.
"As I'll ever be," I nodded.
I stepped into the ship, feeling my heart drop as soon as I looked at it.
"This is beautiful," I said as the door closed.
"Oh, this old thing," he waved it off as he walked to the console. "It's nothing."
"Believe me when I tell you that it is not nothing," I chuckled.
He just grinned and flipped a switch that I couldn't quite see.
I panicked to grab the railing as the ship started shaking. I was too focused on everything else to truly pay attention to the Doctor running around the console.
The ship stopped and the Doctor grinned at me before walking over to the doors. I stood next to him as he pulled the doors open. I gasped at the sight of outer space in front of me.
He moved to the side a bit, letting me step closer to the doorway.
"The TARDIS is protecting us in here," he explained. "We're safe."
I nodded. TARDIS. That's what the ship was called.
I let out a stunned laugh as I looked out at the stars. I leaned forward a bit, feeling a protective hand catch my wrist to keep me steady.
"It's amazing," I said. I leaned back, not missing the small sigh of relief that the Doctor let out. "Where are we going first?"
He hummed for a moment, studying the sky in front of us. He pointed. "That way."
"That way?" I tried to point in the same direction.
He grabbed my arm and moved it slightly.
"That way?"
"That way."
I chuckled before nodding. "I like it."
"Good," he replied. I followed him as he stepped back and pushed the doors shut again.
It was strange. Knowing that this kind of freedom was sitting at my feet when I spent so long trapped in that life. I was nervous. Anything new was scary.
But the more I felt the nerves bubbling up in my chest, the more I found myself smiling.
How lovely it felt to be nervous about something new.
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Navigation Guide
What I Write For
Some Original Characters
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99liv3s · 1 year
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Hello, I've taken a liking to the Personal Birth Clinic you have going on there and would like to give it a shot.
Name: Charlie Eorez
Eye color: Deep blue
Hair: shoulder length blond
Body: Fair skin and around 5'5 in height, has hips not really ideal for childbirth so it can be difficult especially with her tight pussy
Personality: A sweet person that doesn't like to inconvenience people with her problems; signed up as an annonymous surrogate and vocal during birth due to not handling pain well
p.s. (if its fine either there can be some birth denial or just give a difficult birth)
"AAAAAGGGHH!!" Charlie Eorez screamed out as she was wheeled into the birthing room, panting heavily and moaning loudly! She had been in active labor for seven hours, and each hour had grown steadily worse! Her sweat ridden, shoulder length blonde hair covered her face as she cried loudly, holding her large baby bump! Several nurses hoisted her out of the wheelchair and walked her over to the bed! Charlie howled in pain during the trip, feeling gravity add its pressure to the already intense pain she felt in her pelvis! "OOOOWWWW!!" Charlie screamed again, tears leaking from her deep blue eyes as she thrashed around in pain, while the nurses made final preparations for the birth of this baby! "Hey, it's alright," the doctor said to her over her loud cries! "You're doing well!" "It won't be long until you bring this baby into the world!"
Charlie was not the most ideal build for having a baby, with somewhat narrow hips and a small vagina, but sweet, tender Charlie had signed up to be an anonymous surrogate, wishing to give the joy of parenthood to a family that could not have kids of their own, and had been determined to fulfill that role, even when several medical professionals told her it would be risky and difficult. After several months of waiting, she was summoned to the clinic where she was artificially inseminated with a young couple's baby, to carry for them! Eight and a half months later, following a very successful and pleasant pregnancy, Charlie had gone into unexpected labor and had rushed back to the clinic in a panic, mostly caused by the pain! She had waddled around in the waiting room, grimacing and whimpering, trying not to inconvenience anyone, until eventually she began crying out loudly, and someone was then finally able to move her into a room where she could labor more comfortably!
As she continued to thrash around on the bed, moaning, it seemed Charlie could not find a comfortable position at all! At 9 centimeters dilated, she was in the transition phase, where the pain was unbearable, but she could not push yet! Her fair skin covered only by a thin hospital gown, Charlie shrieked as a new wave of pains washed over her! "AAAAAHHHHH!" "HELP ME!" "HELP ME, I GOTTA PUSH!" she screamed, her legs trembling in pain! At a nod from the doctor, two nurses pulled Charlie's legs wide apart and held them, exposing her tiny vagina for everyone in the room to see! One look told the doctor that she was almost fully dilated, and he proceeded to put on his gloves. "Oooooooohhhh!" "Uuuuuuggghhh!" Charlie trilled as the pain continued nonstop, despite being between contractions! "Ok, I'm gonna perform one more check down here, ok??" The doctor asked kindly, to which Charlie nodded, panting and moaning in tandem. "Let me know when you feel another contraction and you can give a little push, alright?" The doctor felt around on Charlie's lower belly and around her vagina, and she let out a sharp cry of pain! "AAAHHHOOWWWW, IT HURTS!!" Charlie screamed, and the doctor nodded! "Little push, yes just like that," he said gently over Charlie's screams. She was involuntarily pushing, her body wishing to do nothing else!
"AAAAAAHHHHHH OH GOD GET IT OUT OOOOHHHHH!" Charlie bellowed as she continued to give birth! A small teardrop bulge had appeared in her vagina and now she was having trouble getting it to move! "PLEASE, IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HUUUURTSSS!" "You're doing fine, Charlie, but you need to push harder!" The doctor said kindly but sternly! "I CAAAN'T," the laboring girl cried, tears and sweat falling down her face! "I know this hurts, but you're right there!" The doctor assured her. "You're so close!" "You can do it!" "You can get this baby out, and then a very lucky couple will have a new baby, thanks to you!" Charlie nodded, then gathered her strength and bore down, causing the small bulge in her vagina to turn into a large, small melon sized head! "AAAAAIIIIIIEEEEEE!" Charlie screamed as the baby's head pushed her pussy open! "OOOOHHH, IT BUUUURRRNNSSS!" "Yes, that means it's almost out," the doctor answered. "It's crowning, doctor," a nurse said as Charlie whined loudly! "Alright, give me another good push, and we'll see this baby enter the world!" "AAAAAAAHHHHHH HHHAHH HAAHH AAHHH OOOOHHHHH!" After several more screams, Charlie felt the baby leave her body as the room was filled with the loud cries of a newborn! "It's a girl!" The doctor announced! "A healthy baby 6 pound girl!" "Well done, Charlie, you did it!" Charlie smiled as she lay on the pillow, panting for breath!
(Your character rolled a 2 = single baby birth)
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themxlkyyway · 1 year
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0.2 Platform Nine and Three Quarters
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Navigation ⋅ Main Masterlist
Warning: None :)
Word Count: 1.6k+
Copying, adapting, and plagiarism, whether in person or digitally, is totally prohibited. Please do not translate and use it as your own work.
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September 1, 1989
The month of August passed quickly before my eyes, I was perusing the books I had bought with Professor McGonagall in search of some answer about the Yew wood, but I could not find anything.
The day came to go to the train to go to school. I put on my clothes and put all my things in their corresponding places, I didn't have many things, but after buying the books, the cauldron, the balance, the set of redomas and the telescope, I had very little space. I went by cab to the train station, it was a somewhat uncomfortable way, the man kept looking at me as if I was crazy. "People are really crazy, an owl? Are you serious? I had to ignore him all the way, my ears were hot, I was sure they were red with embarrassment.
Once in King Cross I looked for the platform that was written on my ticket, 9 ¾, but I only found the number 9 and 10.
I didn't dare to ask anyone, I just stopped in the middle of the corridor trying to collect my thoughts. I turned to see them and they were the same redheads I had seen in that Madame Mulkin's Uniform store, only there were two more of them. They were each pushing a trunk and carrying an owl.
— Well, my dears, this is the stop. — Said the same plump lady I had seen in the store as the two redheads who looked like the eldest sons ran and disappeared into the wall. My eyes widened at what I had seen. But how had they done it?
When all the sons had entered, I approached the lady.
— Excuse me — I said in a friendly tone.
— Oh, hello, my dear, I didn't see you here. You look like someone, though, oh well. — she said examining my face. — First year at Hogwarts, right? Fred and George are new too.
— Sort of, I don't know anything about this world and?
— You don't know how to get on the platform? Don't worry about it. — said the lady with a smile on her face. — You just have to walk straight to the barrier. — She pointed between the two platforms — Don't be afraid, it's best to go quickly if you are nervous. Go now, before me.
With a nervous smile I positioned myself in front of the platform and pushed my cart and started running towards the barrier. It felt strange. When I got there I could see the steam train, scarlet in color, and next to where it had come from was the sign that read: "Platform Nine and Three Quarters".
Everything was real, real people, there were too many kids, many were saying goodbye to their parents, others were already boarding the train. I went to one of the compartments that was empty, I took the lightweight first, which would be my Howard owl and tried to take my trunk up, but it was quite heavy.
— Do you want help with that? — I followed the voice and met one of the red-haired boys from the store and with embarrassment I just nodded.
— It would be very helpful. — I wiped my forehead with my arm.
— George, come help me!
Thanks to the redheads, my trunk was next to the compartment I would be staying in.
— Thank you very much. — I said sitting down on the seat.
— It's nothing, I'm Fred and this is my brother George. — said one of the twins, we shook hands. – Or maybe it's the other way around — replied the other twin. I stared at both of them and then sounded my throat while touching the back of my neck.
— Uh, well, my name is Amelea, Amelea Barnes, nice to meet you.
I heard a voice through the open compartment door.
— We're coming, Mom.
I looked at them one last time before they left the compartment.
— Please behave yourselves, I don't want a complaint from either of you. I charge you Charlie, you're the oldest.
— Of course I am, Mom, don't worry, I'll keep my eyes open. — said another boy with reddish hair as he ruffled the twins' hair.
— Where is Percy? — asked their mother.
— I'm here, I was chatting with some students about one of the classes.
— Well, have a good year, send me an owl when you get there.
There was a whistle.
— Hurry up and get in. I love you. — She kissed each of the children and they boarded the train to their compartments.
The train began to move, the train itself turned and houses could be seen in the distance and passed by with great speed. I didn't know what was going on, but I wasn't complaining, it felt exciting to be here.
At half past twelve we could already see big fields full of cows and sheep. They looked adorable. I heard a big commotion in the aisle of the train, and a woman with a friendly face looked out and said to me — Would you like something from the cart, dear?
I almost shook my head, but I had remembered that Professor McGonagall had handed me some coins. I shyly got up and bought some sweets to entertain me during the trip.
Minutes later the door to my compartment opened revealing the same boys who had helped me earlier.
— How are you?
I could tell they completed their sentences often. I rolled my shoulders, playing it down.
— I'm fine, a little nervous? — I said in a low tone, a little uncomfortable with the attention.
— Don't worry, this should be an exciting year.
— Full of mischief. — said who I thought was Fred. — Oh those are chocolate frogs. — he said as he removed the container from my side, where I had the few candies I had bought. He unwrapped it and pulled out a card.
— Ah, I got Dumbledore. — He handed me the card and I saw him move and wave at me. - What the hell? Why is he moving?
— You don't know? — I shook my head.
— I don't know anything, I just got a card one day and here I am, doing something crazy. — I sighed turning the card over and read:
Albus Dumbledore, currently headmaster of Hogwarts. Considered by almost everyone to be the greatest wizard of the present time, Dumbledore is particularly famous for defeating the dark wizard Grindelwald in 1945, for the discovery of the twelve applications of dragon's blood, and for his work in alchemy with his partner Nicolas Flamel. Professor Dumbledore is fond of chamber music and bowling.
— You were never told about magic or you're a Muggle.
— What the heck is a muggle? — I said confused.
—You. You must be the child of non-magical parents.
— Are there more ways to call people names? — I turned the card over and the silver-haired man with the half-moon glasses was gone. — Where did he go?
— He wasn't going to be there all day, was he? — that made me even more confused.
— In addition to muggles or better known as dirty bloods, there are half-bloods, who have wizards in their family. If you have at least one magical parent usually the child would also come out with magic, and there are the purebloods.
— The ones who are one hundred percent wizarding? — I interrupted the twin.
-Exactly, you're learning fast.
— How come, if you're a Muggle, you're a witch?
— I don't know either, I still think they're wrong, but Professor McGonagall says otherwise. — I looked at the window, the sky was getting darker and darker.
— Professor McGonagall? did she look for you personally?
— Something like that, why, is it bad? — I turned my gaze to one of the twins, who a while ago was stealing my candy.
— Not necessarily. We'd better change into our uniforms, we'll be there soon. — They left the compartment, because during these months people have taken the task of confusing me more and more?
The train stopped after about five minutes, I waited for some of them to get out so I wouldn't be crushed when I wanted to get out. A peculiar voice shouted above the wave of students:
— First year! First years over here!
A tall man with a hairy face called out, I headed towards him, staying a little behind everyone.
— Come, follow me, watch your step!
We all followed the man, I was amazed to see how tall he was, I had never met anyone that tall before.
Carefully we followed the man through a narrow path, everything was very dark, I felt that I would fall if I made a wrong step, there was not much silence, in the back there were still people talking, but for my part, it was silent.
— In a few seconds you will have your first glimpse of Hogwarts — exclaimed the tall man. — Right... here!
I opened my eyes as I saw the big castle, it looked spooky as it was dark, I could see a big lake and a big mountain.
— Come on! No more than four in a boat. — the man pointed to a fleet of small boats lined up on the water, next to the shore.
I got into one of them with three other people, and when we were all in one boat, they all started to move at the same time, it was a quiet lake. Now they were all silent, contemplating the surroundings.
We got out of the boats and climbed over some rocks and pebbles until we finally reached the soft, wet grass, in the shadow of the castle. We approached a large gate and the tall man with his giant fist knocked three times.
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whosscruffylooking · 3 years
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The Purest Things- Repeating History
Aaron Hotchner x Female Reader
Word Count: 2k
Warnings: Brief mentions of murder and alcohol. Canon typical violence.
A/N: this takes place during season 3 episode 11, birthright. i had a lot of fun studying this episode and making it my own. i have changed certain dialogue and who says what for the sake of the story. please enjoy!
The Purest Things Masterlist
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(my gif! please credit if you use.)
january 2008
Syd Moore said, “Disregard for the past will never do us any good. Without it we cannot know truly who we are.”
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Your alarm is often hushed before it even has an opportunity to set off nowadays because you usually wake up before it even has the chance.
4:25 A.M.
You groan and toss your pillow over your face. Maybe, just maybe, you can will yourself to sleep for a little longer. As if someone heard your pleas for slumber, your phone starts buzzing on your bedside table. Of course, it is unnecessary for you even to read the messages. There is a case.
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"Last night in Fredericksburg, a 20-year-old woman, Molly McCarthy, was abducted," J.J. begins, "She's the third to go missing in the last 6 weeks. All disappeared from public places. No one's seen them since until now. A couple days ago, body parts with cigarette burns were recovered from a national park that was once the site of the battle of Chancellorsville."
"Were they able to make an I.D.?" you and Hotch ask simultaneously. Your eyes meet, but he breaks the contact abruptly. Flustered and insecure, you bury your focus deep into the file in front of you. The group discusses the case for a couple of minutes, but you are so concentrated on the papers that you hardly absorb any information they've shared.
There is something familiar about this case to you. Suddenly, realization strikes.
Rejoining the discussions, you say, "I remember reading about a case like this in Spotsylvania county. Similar markings on the bone. It was the winter of 1980, also in Fredericksburg. There were 5 women aged 16 to 24. They were buried in pieces."
"Same markings. Same civil war battlefield," J.J. responds in agreement.
The team agrees that this could be the works of the same killer. There are aspects of the more recent killings that would be impossible to copycat since those details had never been released to the public. But, if this is the same unsub, what's he been doing for the past 27 years?
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Hotch focuses on the road while you watch out the window of the passenger seat. Occasionally, you sneak the odd peek at him. His stoicism is alluring, and you find yourself drawn to this demeanor like a moth to a flame. Piecing together the tiny glimpses you've collected thus far as if working on a mental puzzle, you scrutinize his attributes. His eyes bare the beginnings of crow's feet. Only his sideburns tease the speckling of salt and pepper undertones. His lips turn downwards at the corners, no doubt from years of scowling at unsubs.
Reid speaks up from behind you both and breaks your train of thought. Probably for the better, there's no reason why you should examine your unit chief so intently.
"It's funny--he always dumps the bodies in this battlefield, no matter what the risk."
"It's a respected landmark. He's flaunting," Aaron reckons.
"It makes him feel important," you say in agreement.  
Once you have arrived at the crime scene, you follow Agent Hotchner closely. Reid trails ahead, most likely trying to keep up with his own train of thought.
"How does someone not see or hear them?" You ask the sheriff.
He turns to you with a defeated expression, "It was dark. He had the advantage. Molly's boyfriend was the last person to see her. He said she was alone for a minute, maybe less."
Hotch surveys the surroundings, "He's patient and works fast."
"He's perfected his M.O.," Reid states while looking around.
You cross your arms as a wave of unease gets the best of you as you envision the moments leading to Molly's attack.
"If our unsub's pushing 60, he's gotta be strong enough to carry her a long way without her struggling," you bring out.
Hotch looks to you with a concerned squint. You shake your head, signaling to him that it's nothing you can't get under control. He nods in response. The sheriff agrees to point out the various entrances to the park.
"I'll catch up with you," your Unit Chief states. He motions for you to step aside with him, and you comply.
"You know, ever since my wife and I had our son, I dread receiving cases involving children," he discloses to you.
Tears well up in your eyes, "I can't even imagine, but sir, why are you telling me this?"
"This job will inevitably strike close to home on some cases more than others. It's okay for you to feel overwhelmed by it all every once and a while," he assures you.
"You never lose it, though."
He sighs heavily, "Maybe I should have."
Shortly before you joined the BAU, Hotch's wife Haley left with their son Jack. You never ask questions or stick your nose where it doesn't belong. It isn't your place, and you can't blame him for not wanting to bring his family struggles to work. He deals with enough broken families on the job as it is. Mixing his own personal life into the field would only make it more challenging to prioritize. Despite all this, you cannot help but wonder what exactly led to his and his wife's separation. You hope that they can find their way back to each other. The crimes you investigate do not need to claim the Hotchner's as victims as well.
+++++
"I'll let you talk to Chrissy Wilkenson," Hotch directs you towards the kitchen. You wipe your sweaty palms against the fabric of your pants and make your way into the kitchen, Hotch following closely behind you.
"Mrs. Wilkenson," you say gently, "My name is Y/F/N. I have just a few questions about your husband. Where does Charlie usually go when he's stressed?"
"The barn," she stutters. You can tell she's anxious and afraid for the well-being of her family.
"Anywhere else, Chrissy?"
Hotch is called into the other room, and you continue questioning Chrissy. She's becoming overwhelmed, so you guide her to the dining room.
"I know this is difficult, Chrissy."
"Did the father of my child really do that to those poor women?" She cradles her baby bump.
Your heart breaks for her, and you choose to remain silent. Sometimes saying nothing speaks louder than words.
Footsteps bound throughout the house, and Hotch appears in the doorway, "The sheriff will stay here with Mrs. Wilkenson. We need you with us."
Standing up from your chair, you place your hand atop Chrissy's, "History doesn't have to repeat itself." It is almost as if she could tell you were reading her thoughts. The endless whispers that cloud her mind making her feel like she's left with only one choice, but there's always another option. That is all you are trying to remind her of.
+++++
As you and your team trek through the forest, you see a clearing.
"Hotch, this way," you beckon him to pursue your course.
Suddenly, a gunshot rings out, and you stop in your tracks. You make eye contact with Hotch and mirror each other's actions, dashing towards the opening in the trees. Your heart pounds in rhythm with your footsteps colliding against the ground. It is clear to you from your exchange with Chrissy at the house that the origin of the gunshot will shock everyone but yourself. As you reach the clearing and rush down the hill, your speculation is validated.
Chrissy Wilkenson is standing over the body of her husband, the unsub. A traumatized young man haunted by his father's past and plagued by the idea that children are trapped in the endless cycles created by their parents.
I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Jesus. Now is not the time for that.
The newly widowed woman claims self-defense, yet the cops handcuff her anyways. Inside, you feel conflicted while watching her get into the back of the squad car.
Hotch appears by your side but remains silent. Again, sometimes silence speaks louder than words. You bit your lip, attempting to hide the fact that it is trembling.
"What did you say to her as you were leaving the dining room?"
"I told her that history does not have to repeat itself. I wanted her to know that even when it feels like you are backed into a corner, there is always another way out. Sometimes people don't know where to look for their out thought," you quiver.
He lightly touches your arm and gives you a reassuring tilt of the head, "Just know that you did everything you could. We will never do this job perfectly. Doing the right thing usually costs more than it pays. You did your part.  I'm not a saint, and I am far from a hero, but I have integrity and honor, and I do this job to the best of my ability."
"If you can leave a case with a clear conscience," he continues, "you know you did the best you could. Any other thought process will eat away at you slowly but surely, and ultimately, it will result in the demise of your career and destruction of yourself."
+++++
After a seemingly neverending day, you all arrive back at Quantico.
"I could really go for a drink, guys. What do you say? Newbie's buying," you wave your wallet around frivolously.
"I could go for 5 drinks!" Prentiss exclaims.
"Count me in," Morgan winks at you. He never fails to make you blush.
Reid hesitates and you pout your bottom lip, "Please Reid! How could you not want a repeat of Dolly Parton night last month?"
Hotch comes down the stairs, "Dolly Parton night? Do I want to know?"
You and Derek snicker to each other as Spencer attempts to diffuse his own embarassment.
"9 to 5 is an iconic female anthem that certainly has a rather bewitching affect on a man when mixed with alcohol."
"You only drank Diet Coke that night," you roll your eyes at him.
Out of the corner of your eye, you notice Hotch forcing his way through the small group formed around the desks.
Making your way over to him, you invite him to join, "Want a beer?" You second guess yourself, but it seems as though his rather stern expression softens ever so slightly when he pivots on his heels to look at you.
"I would like that," he answers softly.
He immediately returns to his original path and hovers near the glass doors. You casually make your way over to him, joined by Dave and Emily. A man barges in through the glass doors announcing Aaron's name.
"Agent Hotchner?"
"Yes," the subject in question breaths out almost defeatedly.  
The yellow package he holds in his hands is all too familiar and instantly churns your stomach into knots. You gnaw at your bottom lip, drawing a metallic taste that causes you to cringe.
"What is it?" Emily speaks up.
There's no question as to what it is. Oh Hotch. I’m so sorry.
Hotch's eyes trace the package from corner to corner in disbelief, "Haley's filing for divorce. I've been served."
When he eventually takes his eyes off of the lettering, his eyes meet yours. They lock onto you and it is in that moment that you feel as though you have been given the key to unlock his soul. His eyes are so unusual at this moment; they are more vulnerable than you have ever seen. The stoic man is gone, and instead, it is the eyes of one who is in tremendous pain. You had mistaken his bloodshot eyes for physical fatigue on the plane, but now you see that it is emotional exhaustion as well.
If only you knew how badly I want to hug you and tell you that you won't be swallowed up by this darkness. There's a long road ahead, but you have so many people here who love you and are here to support you through this. You aren't alone. Trust me, I know.
In some way, you pray that he can read into your soul and see the pain you feel for him. Once more, your shared silence proves to speak for itself.  
At last, he breaks eye contact with you and finally releases the breath that you had been holding in. Dave grabs onto your arm, seeing the clear impact Hotch's news has on you, no doubt having also noticed Hotch's immediate response in looking at you.
"I'm sorry, but I don't think I can join you tonight," he excuses himself and escapes to the seclusion of his office.
Maybe history does have a way of repeating itself.
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Boat Day
2197
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JJ MAYBANKS x READER (PRE RELATIONSHIP)
WORD COUNT: 2197
WARNINGS: underage drinking, drugs, language.
A/N: Y/N stands for Your Name and Y/L/N stands for Your Last Name. This is my first story, so send me some request!
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Summers in the Outer Banks are the best. The days are long, the water’s warm and the fun never ends. The best thing about living here are my friends. We call ourselves the Pouges. A handed down name on this island for as long as I can remember. The Pouges are the poor kids. Work for a living to help your parents, cause trouble to have great memories to look back on when you’re older, but most importantly, a family. A lot of us don’t really have one of those. Our parents are to busy working for the Kooks to have time to spend with us.
It was another typical morning on the banks. I was getting ready to go out on the boat with my friends. It was a rare day that we all had no work and nothing to do. I was packing my cooler full of food and drinks because it was my turn to feed everyone. I was wearing my favorite t-shirt dress and I had my hair in a low ponytail and sunglasses on, my go to when it was this hot out.  I was walking onto the back porch the led to our dock right as the boat was pulling up.
“Top of the morning to ya’ sailors.” I greeted my friends. John B was at the wheel slowing down so I can hop on, Kiara was taking the cooler out of my hand and Pope was still reading. I turned to the back of the boat and saw JJ laying there, hat over his head. “What’s his problem?” I ask motioning to JJ. “He drank a little too much last night, and is now nursing a hangover.” John B explains. “Isn’t he always hungover? Here JJ I have something that will fix you, it’s my moms favorite cure.-“Oh yeah, what is it? Advil? ‘Cause I already popped like three of those before you got here.” JJ responded not moving the hat. I pulled another drink out of my cooler. “No silly, it’s to keep drinking. Can’t get a hangover if your always drunk.” JJ moved his hat slightly, looking up at me squinting, sits up takes the drink and smiles. “can’t argue with that logic.” He responds.
I finish passing the rest of the drinks out as John B steered towards the marsh with sun on our backs warming up to be a good day. As we get to our usual spot, Pope throws the anchor down and looks at me “What kinda’ sandwiches did you pack Y/N?” as he rummaged to the bottom knowing I kept them there so they would stay cold. “I packed PB&J for me and you, cucumber for our dear vegetarian Kie, and ham and cheese for these dorks.” He smiled, I always pack everyone’s favourite snacks. “That’s why we keep you around” Pope responds. I gasp, “what?” I ask dramatically. “and here I thought it was my charming personality and good looks.” Everyone starts to laugh, “Sorry sweetheart, but I already took that roll” JJ says to me with a pat on my back. I can’t help but laugh out loud. “Yeah whatever helps you sleep at night J” Kie says laughing with me. “wouldn’t you like to know” he says with wink. My heart flutters. That wink kills me every time.
I’ve had a thing for JJ since we started hanging out together. My family moved here in the eighth grade and I became friends with Kiara. We met volley ball tryouts, quickly becoming friends as if we’d know each other our whole lives. She introduced me to the Pouges, and the rest was history. When Kie started her Kook year, Pope helped me find my way around the school, and lucky for me, JJ always not to far behind.
After we’ve all had something to eat and smoked a couple of blunts it was time to go swimming. Everybody starts taking there clothes off, and jumps in. As I’m taking my dress off I can feel JJ’s eye on me. That’s when I remember I’m wearing a new bathing suit. It’s a simple pink bikini but it shows a bit more of my cleavage then normal. “That’s so cute Y/N! Where did you get it?” Kie asks while my head is stuck in my dress. “At that boutique-for fuck sakes-you know the new one-“Here let me help” I feel a pair of hands grip the dress and a small laugh, and I know the second I hear it , that JJ is coming to my rescue. My breath hitches when his hands brush against my back side. The heat of his hands linger for a minute, “You’re a dysfunctional mess Y/L/N, probably lose your head if it wasn’t attached.” JJ spoke, everyone laughing along with him. “Real comedian you are Jim Carry, I’ll have to come to one of your shows-anyways as I was saying, I’m borrowing it from the boutique that just opened on Main Street.” I tell Kie, “Do they know you’re borrowing it?”. She knew me too well. It was small habit of mind to shoplift clothes. We couldn’t really afford new ones, and I hated asking my parents for one. “No they don’t know I’m borrowing, but I’ll fix the tag when I’m done with it and return it. No one will the wiser” She scuffs at my answer. I take that opportunity to jump in the water with them.
After swimming and another round of snacking and smoking the sun is starting to set, and we are turning the boat around to head home. “Hey Y/N, do you work tomorrow?” JJ asks me. We work at the country club together. I work in housekeeping, and he works in the kitchen doing a little bit of everything. “Yeah I do, 8 to 4 cleaning the discharges. What about you?” I ask him knowing where this is going. I always pick JJ up on my way if we’re working the same shifts. Someone was to make sure he makes it there. “I go for 9 and work a 12 hour shift, think I can bunk at your place? Is your mom working night shift?” My mom is a nurse at the E.R. and when she’s not home I let him spend the night with me. My dad is away on a fishing trip so no one would know he’s there. “Yeah she’s leaving for work at 7 if you want to sleep on the couch. Just don’t smoke in the house this time. My dad could smell the weed when he got home” “sure thing”.
John B stops at Kie’s first, she’s the only one with a curfew for being out late one to many times. “Alright losers, thanks for the day, I’ll talk to you guys tomorrow. John B are you still coming by the wreck in the morning?” Kie asks him and I look at Pope, I can see him roll his eyes under his sunglasses. I was under strict orders from him not to say anything about his crush in her. “Of course, do you think you’re dad will still want me picking up shifts there, it’ll get DCS off my case for a little while.”. Kiara’s dad offered to help John B out after Big John went missing a couple of months ago. DCS was been on his case about his uncle and the bills. “He said he needed the help with the summer season starting, Charlie Hanson quit last week for his band so we’re short a dish washer” Pope finally looks up from the book he’s reading, “I’ll sleep at your place tonight and help you write resume out for him.” John B smiled at Pope. “Thanks man, I really need your wisdom” Everyone laughs. Kie gets off the boat and waves goodbye to everyone. “Next stop the Y/L/N home” JJ says, “I’m so tired I could fall asleep right here” He motions to the front of the boat. Dramatically laying across the hard plastic. It’s grown colder now that the sun has set and with that wind picks up. I’m only in my dress from earlier, cursing myself for not bringing a sweater. “Christ John can this bucket of bolts go any faster, I’m freezing my ass off” I ask with a hint of sarcasm. Moments later I watch JJ sigh deeply and throw a towel over in my direction. “You’re lucky I was too hungover to go swimming, that should keep you warm. We’re almost there.” After a short distance and many laughs we’re finally pulling up to the dock. I look up to my house, and see that my mom left the light outside on, she knew me to well. I hated walking up the yard in the dark. JJ grabs the cooler and waves goodbye to Pope and John B as they sail away.
I wave goodbye to them and turn around to see that JJ is already half way up the yard. “JJ wait up, I only have little legs!” It was our inside joke, we both love watching full house, and he was quite taller then me so I could never keep up. He was quiet the short walk up to the house holding the door open for me. As we walk into my kitchen, I lock the door, and turn the outside light off. “Do you want the first shower J?” I ask him walking to the closet to pull out the extra blankets for him to sleep with. I could hear him opening the fridge. “No, you take the first shower and use the hot water. I don’t want to listen to you complain about me using all the hot water again.” I couldn’t argue with that. My house had shit warm water. Normally enough for a quick shower, and then taking forever to reheat. After putting the blankets on the couch, I look at JJ coming out of the kitchen with just his swim trunks on. “I’m taking a cold shower anyways, it’s hot in here.” He comments taking another drink of his water. I smile and nod to him, walking to my room to get some clothes. I grab the towel from the closest hallway and a pair of pajama’s walking into the bathroom. I start the water and hop in washing my hair and body. Once I’m done I get out of shower throw my hair in a bun and get changed. I walk into the living and JJ is siting there rolling a joint and watching tv. “Did your mom upgrade from cable because I don’t remember you having this channel” he asked not looking up from his joint. Eyebrows knitted together in concentration. “Yeah she complained about the bill being to high, and they gave some extra channels for being loyal customers or something like that” I look at what he’s watching. National Geographic. “JJ since when have you liked national geographic? What are you even watching? Is that Naked and Afraid?” You hit the guide to confirm that he’s actually watching it. “Yeah, I thought it was actually going to show them naked, not blur all the good stuff. Too PG if your asking me. What’s the point of calling the show Naked and afraid if you don’t actually see them naked?” He did make a good point, honestly I never watch any the television, always opting for Netflix. “I don’t know why the call it that. But you should go shower, its getting late and we both have to work early. Do you want me to wake you up when I get up?” I ask walking into the kitchen to get myself a drink. “No you wake up at the ass crack of dawn, just wake me up before you go I’ll sleep in the car until its time for work” JJ calls as I hear him shut the door to the bathroom. Once I hear the water running, I sigh and start making the couch up for him. I grab some of the pillows from my room, and take his rolled joint and put it in baggie with his other. I put his book bag by the couch and a clean pair of shorts he left from last time.
As I’m getting into bed, I can hear the shower turn off, and shortly after the door open. As I’m lying in bed thinking about the day staring at the ceiling, I can hear JJ rummaging around the living room. My heartbeat quickens thinking that he’s in the other room. I wish I could get the courage to tell him how I feel, but the rules say other wise. When Pope told me about his crush, that’s what he said to me. “remember those stupid no pouge on pouge macking rules.” A small mantra as to not ruin our friendship together. As I’m slowing drifting off to sleep I can hear JJ call from the other room, “goodnight Y/N” and I fall asleep with a smile on my face and pain in my heart knowing the man I love is another room and not with me.
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official-weasley · 3 years
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Niece Aoede - (The Irreplaceable Charlie Weasley AU)
Warnings: I can't think of anything really 🙈
Word count: 2,741
Characters: Charlie Weasley and my OC Nova from TICW which you can find here
Charlie
“Good morning.” I stretched in the doorway that leads to the kitchen.
“Good morning.” Olivia smiled at me. “Would you like some tea or coffee?”
“Tea's fine.” I rubbed my eyes and sat down.
“Are you okay?” She tilted her head, observing me.
“Fine. Just a bit nervous, that's all.” I scratched the back of my head.
“To take Aoede to meet your family?”
“Charlie?” She said softly after a moment of silence, me biting my lip.
“Yeah.” I confessed.
“Molly didn't mention anything to me, but did you two have a fallout?” She placed her hand on top of mine.
“No.” I shook my head. “It's nothing.” I tried convincing her with a smile but I know she knows me better than that.
“I know your mum can be a bit much.” She sighed.
“It's not...yeah.” I bowed my head. “It's just, I know she apologized and everything is fine now but I hated how she reacted when we told her that Nova is pregnant.” My brows came together, reminiscing on the moment.
“Ah, she told me about that, yes.” Olivia nodded her head.
“I am used to her not agreeing with my choices but you saw how happy we were when we told you and we wanted to share that joy with my family and she ruined everything. It might've not been planned but we wouldn't change anything in the world and you should see how nervous Nova was to tell my parents that we are entering a new chapter in our lives. She was supposed to burst from happiness not look green in the face because she knew how my mum will react and she didn't want to disappoint her.” I tried hard to keep myself calm but I just couldn't help it, she made me so mad that day.
“I hate that she can't understand that I am old enough to take care of myself and that I have my own family now. She treats me as if I am a first-year and I...” I took a deep breath. “I guess now that I'm older I am seeing her in a different light.”
“She is just worried for you and wants the best for you.” Olivia said calmly.
“Then why could you be happy for us and share such a sweet moment with us when we told you? Why could dad be happy and supportive? Why does she always have to...” I sighed and pinched the bridge of my nose. “You know, what? Forget I said anything.”
“Don't tell her this, but I think she should've reacted differently too. Want me to talk to her?”
“What good will that do? She will never change and never stop bossing us around. Do you know that she is the reason why I suggested to Nova that we stay with you and not at the Burrow? I knew that you will give us space and act normal and not lecture us every five minutes and tell Nova that she shouldn't sit that way while pregnant but find a different position or some nonsense like that.”
“You know she loves you and she just wants the best for you and I am not trying to defend her or be on her side. She just has her own way of showing those things and perhaps bossing you around and telling you what to do is the only way she knows and is not even aware that she is doing it. I know it's hard to understand but you and Nova are planning to have more children and getting along with your family is important for them.” She sighed. “I would know, both my and Roger's parents died before Nova was even born and I wish for nothing else than she could have grandparents in her life. Do stand up to her but don't cut her off completely.” She gave me a soft smile.
“Yeah, you're right.” I nodded. “Thank you for listening to me, Olivia.”
“Any time, Charlie. As much as Nova is a part of your family that much you are a part of hers.”
“Are the girls still sleeping?” Olivia asked as she put a cup of tea in front of me.
“No, Aoede woke up a while ago. I changed her and now Nova is breastfeeding her.” I took a sip of my tea.
“It makes me very happy that you help Nova so much. She even looks rested.” Olivia giggled.
“Well, she has been carrying her for 9 months and she had to give birth to her now it's my turn to have sleepless nights so Nova can get as much sleep as possible.” I smiled at her.
“Yeah, you'll have plenty of those, don't you worry.” Olivia laughed.
“I don't mind at all. I would never sleep again if it means my girls would be rested and well taken care of.”
“Olivia?” I waved a hand in front of her face when she didn't say nor blink for solid 30 seconds.
“Oh, I'm sorry for staring at you.” She put her hand in front of her mouth, embarrassed. “I just don't think I ever told you how lucky Nova is to have you.”
“Oh,” I felt the heat on my cheeks, “thank you.”
“I mean it, Charlie. Roger and I were hoping that our Nova would find someone that can truly understand her and bring the best out of her. You have done that and so much more and I know we don't talk often and you needed quite some time to loosen up around me,” she giggled, “but just know that I think you are perfect for my daughter.”
“Uh, I-”
“Good morning.” Nova's soft voice saved me from my awkward stuttering.
Olivia's compliment caught me completely off guard. Nova has always been closer to my mum than I was with hers. Mostly, because she hardly had the time to see us and we never really spent that much time on our own – Nova was always with us.
She was right when she said that I needed some time to relax around her. She never gave me any reason not to, I just found her intimidating and I wanted her to like me, especially when Nova and I started dating.
We got closer ever since we announced that we are going to have a baby and we spent some time alone together when Nova told Bill about her being pregnant. Now, that we have been living with her for the past 14 days because our house is under renovation, we have become really good friends and I finally feel like I am a part of Nova's family.
“How is my favorite girl?” Olivia turned her baby voice on.
“Are you talking to me or Aoede?” Nova giggled giving her the baby then she sat down next to me and kissed me.
“You want to eat something before we go?” I asked her.
“I think Molly will be delighted to give me something and if we go right now, we might catch Fred, George, Ron, and Ginny in their common room.” She smiled at me.
“Right, they won't all be there.” Olivia was still talking in her baby voice. “Who is the prettiest girl in the world?”
Nova and I giggled looking at her mum. She has that voice every time she is talking to our daughter and at this point, I am surprised that she can even switch back to her normal voice.
“I'll go upstairs and prepare everything then.” I started to get up.
“I already did that but I did forget the bag upstairs if you could...”
“I'm on it!” I stood up cutting Nova off.
The sooner we come to the Burrow the sooner we can come back here.
“Are you ready?” I whispered to Nova as we were standing in front of the door of my childhood home.
“Are you?” She whispered back, trying not to wake up the baby.
“I'll be fine as long as she doesn't say anything to you.” I kissed her.
“See, sweetheart, daddy is very overprotective so you should get used to that.” Nova giggled, kissing our daughter's nose.
We barely had the time to knock on the door when it swung open.
“You are finally here! What took you so long!” Mum's voice was nothing near a whisper.
I looked at Aoede who just moved in the blanket Nova had her wrapped in and continued sleeping.
“Oh, the baby is sleeping. I'm sorry.” Mum lowered her voice and moved so we could come inside.
“Hi, dad.” I waved at him as he stood up from the sofa.
“There he is! Welcome to fatherhood!” He pulled me into a hug and tapped me twice on the back.
“Thanks, dad.” I couldn't stop a smile from spreading all over my face.
I liked my new title a lot. I always wanted a family but it wasn't until our daughter was born that I realized just how strong my wish to be a dad was. I know I can't be the one talking, Aoede being born 14 days ago but so far I loved every second of it – even when Aoede was crying in the middle of the night, not willing to fall asleep.
“I am sorry that nobody else could come, dear.” Mum was next to hug me.
“Bill can't make it?” I tried hiding the disappointment in my voice.
“Sadly, he has been more than busy at work lately.” Mum genuinely looked like she felt sorry that he couldn't come.
“It's okay. We'll meet with him some other day.” I turned to the fireplace.
“What are you doing, Charles?” Mum rushed to my side.
“I sent Fred an owl to meet us through the fire. We have half an hour before the twins, Ron and Ginny continue with their classes.” I explained.
“Oh, don't be silly.” Mum swung her hand. “They'll have the time to meet the baby, properly. You can't do it over the fire.”
“When? In July? Don't be ridiculous.” I turned around to cast a spell on the fire.
“We wish you could all be here for this moment so we came up with a solution.” Nova who was sitting on the sofa, watching my dad holding Aoede, smiled.
“Dad, Nova, come here, so we can all be close to the fire.” I gestured for them to move.
“You can't bring the baby so close to the fire.” Mum protested, trying to stop my dad from sitting down in front of the fireplace.
“Molly, we trust Arthur that he will be careful.” Nova tried calming her down.
“Please stop telling us how to take care of our baby.” I sighed, trying to stay as calm as possible, repeating Olivia's words in my head.
“But...”
“Oh, where is the baby? Where is it?” George's voice interrupted my mum from making me mad.
“Does it have red hair?” Ginny exclaimed.
“Does it look like me?” Fred clapped his hands together.
“Does it have my eyes?” Ron blinked a few times.
“Mum, dad, Fred, George, Ron, Ginny meet your granddaughter and niece, Aoede Io.” Dad gently placed Aoede in my hands and I carefully sat down in front of the fire in the hopes that they will be able to see her.
“Oh, she is so cute!” Ginny put her hands over her mouth.
“She is so small!” Fred was the next to speak.
“She looks nothing like us, Fred.” George tried sounding disappointed.
“We...we have a granddaughter.”
The second mum heard me say it, her cheeks were soaked with tears and she forgot all about the dangers of fire and kneeled next to me to finally get a proper look of the little girl in my hands.
“Arthur,” she breathed, “look at her. She is perfect.” Mum sniffed.
“Who picked the name?” Ron asked.
“Charlie.” Nova smiled, leaning her chin on my shoulder, sitting behind me as the space in front of the fireplace was too small to accommodate everyone.
“She has a beautiful name.” Ginny's voice shook a little.
“I don't know if you can see her.” I frowned.
“We see her just fine. Thank you for doing this, Charlie.” George smiled.
“Of course! When you'll see her in the Summer she will be 5 months old.” Nova returned the smile.
“Will I be allowed to hold her?” Ginny asked.
“Of course, you will. All of you will.” I answered, giving Aoede an Eskimo kiss.
“So, who won the bet?” I smirked.
“Almost forgot about that!” Fred jumped on the spot.
“Pay up, George and Ron!” Ginny extended her hand as if waiting for them to give her the money.
“How many times do we have to tell you that Ginny is always right?” I giggled, watching George and Ron give Fred and Ginny the coins.
“Don't get me wrong, I can't wait to meet her, but we have to go!” Ginny nudged her brothers and stood up. “Nova, Charlie, congratulations!” She grinned at us before standing up.
“Yeah, congrats!” Ron followed her lead.
“Thank you for making us uncles!” The twins said in unison.
“I hope you know, we will spoil her rotten.” George chuckled and they broke off the connection.
“Her? I have a niece?” All four of us turned around, seeing Bill standing behind us.
“Bill, you came!” Nova got up at once and threw her arms around him.
“Are you kidding? I wouldn't miss seeing my niece for the first time for anything in this world.” He smiled and returned the hug.
“But you told mum that you can't make it.” I gave Aoede to mum who was eyeing her with sparks in her eyes and stood up.
“I wanted it to be a surprise.” He winked at me before pulling me into a hug.
“Can I hold her?” Bill asked hopefully, looking at the baby in mum's arms.
“Here you go, William. Be careful with the head.” Mum gave him Aoede and Bill made his way to the sofa.
“Bill, meet your niece, Aoede.” I sat down next to him.
“You got your wish with the name.” He smirked.
That day when Nova told Bill she was pregnant we went for a walk when they came back and he asked me about baby names and I was just too excited not to talk about them to him.
“She looks so much like you, Nova.” Bill whispered as Nova sat down next to him on his other side.
“Even though it's darker than yours.” Bill looked from his niece to me.
“Except the hair.” Dad giggled.
“I was hoping she would get Charlie's hair.” Nova gently ruffled Aoede's soft locks.
“He had the same color when he was born.” Mum said, sitting in her armchair, admiring the scene before her.
“Did you give her a middle name?” Bill asked his eyes on the baby.
“Io.” Nova answered.
“Aww, like you. That is precious.” Bill cooed.
“Do you think she'll have any freckles?” Bill asked after a moment of admiring his niece.
“We hope so.” Nova leaned on his shoulder.
“If you look closely, she has 3 on her nose.” I giggled.
“How was the delivery?” Dad was the first one to snap out of us all looking at our baby girl.
“It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.” Nova rubbed her chin.
“What's important is that it all went smoothly and that you're both okay.”
Just as my mum said that Aoede started crying.
“Oh, no. What did I do?” Bill started to panic.
“Nothing.” Nova giggled. “She's just hungry.” She gestured for Bill to give her the baby and she slowly made her way upstairs.
“Do you want me to come with you?” I started to get up.
“No, no. We'll be fine. Won't we?” She used the same baby voice on Aoede as her mum did.
“She looks fine and rested.” Mum turned to me the second they disappeared on the stairs.
“We are managing. Nova is feeding her when she's hungry and I take care of all the rest so that Nova can get her strength back.” I said nonchalantly.
“That's my son.” Dad winked at me.
“Congratulations, Charlie. She is just lovely.” Bill pulled me into another hug. “When are you having the next one?”
“Hey, slow down. Let this one grow a little.” I laughed, knowing full well he was only joking.
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dearlybelovedluke · 4 years
Text
Sandman - Henry Cavill
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Word Count: 1612
Warnings: baby fluff
Pairing: Henry x Reader
A/N: Wow look at me go, two posts in one day, this is wild that I’m actually posting them. Thank you @syversons​ and @sideh0e​ for all your support bc you both are literally angels!!💕💕💕💕
ALso i was wanting a gif of Henry and a baby but yk I saw this one and just had too so enjoy!!
Taglist:
@romyr4 @littlefreya @sideh0e @syversons@magdelen69 @scorpionchild81 @omgkatinka @omgkatinka @klaine-92 @radaofrivia @snatchedbylele @strangerliaa @mary-ann84
The beach was bright and beautiful as the whole Cavill family took over it. The kids ran around playing, being chased around by family, while the rest of the Cavill clan were relaxing in lawn chairs spread out along the beach. Henry’s parents found the perfect spot early that morning for the family to occupy for the day. 
From where you were sitting you watched Henry, Charlie and Simon tossing around a rugby ball with the oldest children, while your two-year-old, babbled away in front of you while playing.
“Ah, there you are,” Marianne called, trekking across the sand towards you, where you lounged on the big beach blanket Henry had laid out for you when you had arrived at the beach that morning.
“Nana!” Jackson grinned as he reached for her. She held her hands out as she approached, letting him see the bag of sand toys that she had ventured back to the house to get. 
“Hi baby! Look what nana has for you,” she said, shaking the bag gently.  “Want to make a sandcastle?”, she asked as she sat down on the edge of the blanket beside the both of you. 
Jackson nodded excitedly, mostly due to the fact that Nana was giving him something. Henry would probably be delighted to be there while he made his first sandcastle, but for now, he could play with the toys in the sand until Henry was done.  This was the first time he was properly on a beach where he could walk around and not have to be carried by you or Henry.
He giggled softly as she placed the bag in front of him. “What do you say, baby?” he just smiled widely and babbled something before turning back to the toys shaped like water animals.
“Thank you Marianne.” you smiled, turning to look at her before fixing the little blue bucket hat on top of his head. 
“Only the best for his first Jersey beach day.” she winked, before turning to watch her sons playing with her grandkids. Jackson let out a small shriek of excitement as he watched the sand inside the dolphin toy fall and make a pile on top of his foot. 
“Do you like the sand baby?”, you asked, when he handed you the neon plastic shovel that he felt he had no need for. He makes some noise agreeing before scooping out another hand full, looking at it curiously as it falls again.
“It’s so nice having you guys back, I know it’s just for a bit. But having Henry home,” she trails off before accepting the small turtle mould from Jackson. “Thank you baby.” she grins, leaning forward, pressing a gentle kiss on his head. He lets out a toothy grin before turning back to the sand in the dolphin mould. 
“He’s always happier when he’s here,” you say, making a little hole in the space in front of the blanket. “And I am too. Something special about being here, and now with Jackson. We miss you guys in London,” you sighed slightly. 
“Well come anytime!” Marianne says, gently squeezing your hand, making you look up at her. “Think about how much shopping we could get done! Leaving Jackson with Colin and Henry! A girls day!” she exclaimed excitedly. “We’ll get all the girls in!” 
“That sounds fantastic!” You grin back. “When Henry sorts out when he’s going back to film the next season, Jackson and I will come stay with you!” You say excitedly. Marianne lets out an excited squeal as she leans over and wraps an arm around you pulling you close to her.
“Well you know you are always welcome! Whether it’s you and the baby or bringing my busy bee of a son. Anytime! All I need is an hour’s notice” she winks at you, before letting out a laugh. “Of course” you laugh, “we’ll come all the time while Henry is filming,” you say, before turning to look at Jackson, jumping into motion as he brings the fistful of sand into his mouth
“Jackson, baby, no!”, trying to grab his little fist but it’s too late. The sand is in his mouth, and you can see a look of regret in his eyes as his face twists and begins to wail, trying to spit it out, reaching back for you to fix whatever just happened to him.
***
Across the beach, Henry hears the cries of his son and stops in his tracks, turning to where he sees a small tantrum forming. A slight panic overtakes him, making him toss the ball over to Charlie without looking and jogging over to you holding your screaming toddler.
“What happened?”, he asked as he slowed into a walk in front of you, reaching for Jackson, who now seeing his dad arrive on the scene, was struggling to get out of your arms and into his.
“Looks like he decided to be just like you,” Piers says, clapping him on the back, as he approached, seeing Jackson sputtering, face flowing with tears. You look up confused, trying to help Jackson by washing the sand out of your crying son’s mouth with the little bit of water left in the plastic bottle, but he was having none of it. He wanted to scream and cry, and be held in the comforts of his dad and Henry only, as his crying gets louder the closer Henry gets, his little hands reaching out for him. “When Henry was little, he did the same,” Marianne says reappearing with a water bottle. “Simon fed it to me.” He said, finally reaching down to scoop Jackson into his arms. “Sure he did.” Marianne and Piers say simultaneously, causing the rest of the group who had come to see what the commotion was about, to laugh.
Henry cuts glare to his family before focusing back on Jackson, slowly sinking to the ground, patting him on the back slightly to calm him down. “It’s alright baby, daddy’s here. Come on, spit it out. Good boy”, he says as he helps wash out his mouth to get rid of the sand.
After a couple of minutes of Henry calming him down and getting the sand out of his mouth, he pulls him closer onto his lap, before pulling you close and under his arm. “Daddy no sand” Jackson pouts. Henry chuckles, “alrighty Sandman, no more sand for you.” You watch and give a soft smile as his mini-me tries to cuddle into Henry as close as possible. 
“I think someone needs a N A P” he spells out looking over at you. You nod before leaning in to kiss Jackson on top of the head, and then Henry’s cheek. “Let’s head back. He won’t make it any longer sitting in the sand.” You chuckle before moving to pack up your spot. “We’ll see you back at the house,” Henry called to his family, as he carried Jackson in one hand and the beach bag in the other to the car.
***
Later that night, with all the sand washed out of Jackson’s mouth and off your bodies, you and Henry stand in the doorway of his childhood bedroom looking down at the sleeping toddler. 
“You know, Simon really did feed it to me.” He says without looking at you. You shake your head with a soft chuckle. “You were 3, how do you know?”
“Dad told me.”
“Mhm, I think he told you that so you weren’t embarrassed later on about it.”
“So I guess we’ll have to save him from the embarrassment when he’s older,” he chuckles softly, pulling you into his side. “I’ll tell him Simon did it when he’s older. Seems to be the blame trend in the family.” You let out a slight giggle into his shoulder. “Or Charlie?” he continues softly, “Maybe we should blame him. Simon has enough blame for messing with the other kid’s lives. We should put it on Charlie.” The thought makes you smile, knowing Henry’s family they’ll play along with it, and the Cavill teasing bond will pass down to your baby boy.
“Sounds like a plan to me,” you whisper back, snuggling into his side even more. Both of you stand watching Jackson for a few more minutes in silence before Henry speaks.
“We should have another one,” he says softly, turning so you are snuggled up into his chest. “Another one?” you tease, raising an eyebrow at him, lifting your arms up, sliding them around his neck.
 “Yeah, I think we could go upstairs,” he teases back, sliding his hands up and down your sides, leaning his forehead against yours, his voice lowering as he continues, “I could spend some quality time reminding my wife how much I love her and who knows, in 9 months, we might have another one running around eating sand,” the grin on his face growing as he pulls you even closer to him, before his lips land on yours for a short passionate kiss. “What do you think?” he whispers as you both pull away.
“Well,” you say tilting your head slightly to look at him. “I don’t think we have to wait 9 months” you whisper. His head pulls back slightly and jaw drops as his eyes widen before growing into the biggest smile that could stretch upon his face. His hands move from your waist to your belly, which won’t show for another few weeks. “Really?” he whispers. “More like 7 months” you whisper back with a smile growing each second on your face. “God I love you” he whispers, pressing his forehead against yours softly before crashing his lips onto yours.
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prettywordsyouleft · 3 years
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To Be Continued - Part 4
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Summary: As an author, you had created Brian Kang for your current trilogy series to represent the ultimate man that everyone would love, along with Charli Evers - your female protagonist. What you hadn’t expected was for him to find a way out of the story and begin shaping up your world instead
Pairing: Brian Kang x female writer (ft. Park Sungjin)
Genre: writer au / romance / fantasy
Warnings: fictional characters coming to life / a bit of angst here and there / Sungjin as a cop (or does that only affect me?) >_>
Word count: 2262
Preview | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Epilogue
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When you eventually came around again, you let out an immediate giggle when you found yourself on your living room’s couch, a pair of concerned eyes peering down at you. They widened with your sudden noise, blinking some to try and figure out why you had laughed.
“The hallucinations are continuing,” you mentioned with another laugh, this time sounding more desperate than the first.
“I’m really here, though.”
“Of course, you are.” Sitting up, you flinched when Brian’s hand reached out to help you do so, your focus snapping down to where he had touched you. It had felt normal, as if a human had supported you just now.
But this wasn’t humanly possible. No one ever in the history of mankind had written a novel and their characters came to life!
… Had they?
“Stop overthinking it,” Brian mentioned, observing you carefully.
“Do you read thoughts too?”
“No.”
“Then I truly did well to create you as someone who can pick up on most moods and emotions,” you replied, nodding again as you chuckled. You then clasped your face within your hands and whined loudly. “I’m going insane!”
“You will go mad if you keep this up,” Brian pointed out, and you peeked through your hands, stilling from your dramatic outburst. Staring at him, you lowered your barrier slowly and took him in.
There was no plausible explanation for how this had happened. And yet, you were there when it did. Nothing made sense, aside from how well your description had brought Brian to life. You marvelled the man over, instinctively reaching out to touch the mole on his neck. Directing your gaze up to his, Brian tipped his head with encouragement.
“Keep exploring,” he urged. His permission seemed to snap you out it, your hand returning to your lap hastily. Brian sighed. “This wasn’t how I imagined our first meeting.”
“No?” you asked, a little detachedly. Your mind was still whirling at a fast pace over all of this.
Could you have come across this man before in your life and subconsciously modelled your character off of him? That still didn’t explain how Brian had gotten into your home in the first place. You were grasping at straws here, trying to rationalise the situation.
Even if you were a dreamer by nature, this was something else.
“Should I explain how I came to exist?” Brian offered, and you nodded once before holding up your hand to stop him.
“Wait. I need to some supplies first!” you announced, getting up with a bit of a wobble and headed back to your office. Snatching your phone and a pen and paper off the desk, you dashed back into the living room, where you stopped suddenly, Brian staring back at you.
He’s still here, you thought to yourself in disbelief, walking at a much slower pace back to the couch Brian now sat cross-legged upon. You eyed him warily as you sat down.
Looking at your supplies, Brian smirked. “What are you planning to do?”
“Take some evidence,” you answered, quickly snapping a photo with your phone’s camera. Brian was disorientated, leaning away from you as you took another two.
“Can’t I at least prepare for the photos first?”
“Don’t go giving me any crap about needing to present your best side. The Brian Kang I created doesn’t have one. He looks good all over,” you muttered, opening the gallery and clicking through the photos you had taken. Even if the pose was awkward, he still looked handsome.
You laughed incredulously once more. He actually appeared in them. After inspecting them as well, Brian rolled his eyes. “I’m not a ghost. Of course, I’d appear in them.”
“Okay,” you said, opening up the voice recording app on your phone and placed the device between you both. Brian shot you a look of annoyance, and you challenged it back as you picked up your pen and paper. “Now, you can start.”
“I think I began to have conscious thoughts at the end of Encounter,” he admitted, and you scribbled down the title of your first novel with him, circling it for effect. You blinked away from your note-taking to look up at him.
“What do you mean? Conscious thoughts?”
“Well, you’re the writer, aren’t you?” Brian smiled, and you tried not to become too captivated by how perfect it was. “I’m not supposed to do anything unless you direct me to, right?”
“Sometimes the story seems to write itself, but I’m still in some control of it.”
He nodded. “The end of the story meant there was nothing else for me to do. Whilst I was frozen in place, my mind continued. Why did everything stop there? Who was I and why couldn’t I continue to live through all this?”
“You had thoughts like that then?” Brian nodded, and you let out a shaky breath. “Woah.”
“Then you must have started Captivated because, for some time, I was too busy fighting my way through to Charli. However, it would be during the scenes where I wasn’t present that I would find myself wondering why I was chasing her around. Just who was she to me? Even though I could move, and my reactions felt sincere, I couldn’t fathom why it had to be her. My life was already hard enough, and yet I was forever looking towards a girl who came from another world than I had.”
You smiled fondly. “Charli Evers is the daughter of a conglomerate in power of changing the nation. Meanwhile, you’re her bodyguard from a less than desirable background.”
“Let’s not visit my dark past right now, shall we?” Brian mentioned with some unease, and you nodded before you gasped. Brian frowned. “What?”
“You really do know the story!”
“When are you going to stop freaking out over my existence? Don’t you want the so-called proof?” he wondered with an impatient tone, causing you to snap your mouth shut. Brian sighed before continuing. “As I waited for scenes to change, I realised I couldn’t understand my world at all. Why did I have such a troubling back story? Surely, if I were real, no one would have faced what I had in one lifetime, let alone in ten years of my life.”
You didn’t quite meet his eyes then, looking at his shirt button that was undone to avoid the accusing tone that was laced within his latter sentences.
“And of all the men in the world, why was Charli so drawn to me?”
“That’s how star crossed lovers work, Brian,” you told him in a quiet voice. He merely scoffed and you gaped at him. “Look, I’m sorry that for you to be seen as a troubled protagonist I gave you some hard experiences but this is my story and it’s loved by thousands around the world.”
“Really?!” he asked as his eyes shot open, soon shaking his head. “The outside world is really strange.”
“You’re telling me,” you mumbled as you looked him up and down again. Brian cocked his head to the side, and you waved him off to carry on.
“It was then when I started to try and find ways not to do as I felt I had to. And there were a couple of times where I succeeded.”
“The gala!” you mentioned, and Brian smirked with acknowledgment. “I had such a hard time reshaping my plans because you stubbornly wouldn’t seem to get into the right mood!”
“That’s when I realised the people around me weren’t real.”
“They’re very much so real in that world!” you countered, and Brian shot you an unamused look. You glowered at him. “I haven’t worked hard all year as I have for you to sit here and say my characters aren’t realistic!”
“I didn’t mean they weren’t realistic, simply that they’re what you just called them, characters.”
“Be careful, you’re one too,” you grumbled, and Brian clapped his hands together. You gaped at him once again. “You do that when you want to keep Charli on topic! Are you treating me like her right now?!”
“You’re going off on a tangent. I offered you my side of things, and you’re too busy trying to defend people who don’t even know what they really are.”
“I once watched a TV series about characters in a comic book coming to their senses,” you murmured, turning pale. “How did that end again?”
“Y/N.” Glancing up at Brian, he shot you a comforting smile. “Please let me finish before you start trying to find ways to blow this out of proportion.”
“Because talking to you right now and being in your presence is completely logical.”
“I’ll ignore your sassy remark,” he warned and cleared his throat. “I started to grow aware of your presence. As if you were in the background of each moment pulling all the strings. I yearned to know more about you, and sometimes I would hear you talking to yourself about the scene you were struggling with.”
“You heard me?”
Brian nodded. “Quite often over the last couple of months, I believe it’s been.”
“How did you find your way to getting out here and helping me when I was sick?”
“Admittedly, I guessed there was at least a script somewhere controlling us. Then you got sick and left your computer on. It was the first time you had left the document open like that.”
“So let me guess. Whilst I slept, you found a way to find the script, realised there was another world outside of yours and reached out for it.”
“You called me out, Y/N.”
“Okay, now we’re really getting to the implausible here.”
Brian didn’t react to your disbelief. Instead, he stared at you in earnest. “Don’t you remember? You wished for me to help you take you to bed.”
“You… picked up on that?” you breathed out incredulously, and Brian couldn’t help but allow some amusement to curl up his lips further.
“Dream men are just that, Y/N. Brian Kang would never exist in this world,” he recited as if he had heard it in the past. Your hands rose to your mouth when you realised you had said that. Brian grinned. “Be careful about what you wish for, Y/N. Looks like I can exist in this world after all.”
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You needed some fresh air, and after telling Brian so, you dashed out into your backyard, blinking rapidly when you realised how late into the night it was. Staring up into the inky world above, you tried to find some clarity within your situation.
Brian, in some form, seemed to exist. And he had not only looked after you when you were ill but had been messaging you somehow from within your computer. The document seemed to change because of his influence and all of this had started with your lack of energy to follow your usual pattern of shutting down the device at the end of the night.
Glancing back towards your house, you shivered. Had you left it open earlier, could there have been a chance Brian would have somehow come through the screen then?
“The concept of him coming out of such a small laptop is laughable,” you told the universe above, and yet it didn’t show you any signs to debunk the evidence you had either.
Although you were troubled and had so many more questions for the man inside your home, there was a sense of comfort that came the longer you spent your time with him. You had done so for countless months so far as his writer, and after the initial shock of the situation, you realised he felt like a home to you.
You then gasped noisily. Could this have happened with Jinyoung in Destined too, had you let it? Were all your characters out there holding different truths than the ones you had given them or was Brian the only one?!
Marching back inside, you walked into your office and opened up the first Destined document. And then you raised your hands to the heavens and nodded firmly. “Come out, Park Jinyoung!”
“What on earth are you doing?” a voice called from the doorframe, and you squealed with fright, stumbling over your desk chair and reached out for the table to save yourself. Brian’s hands quickly encircled your waist and pulled you upright, breathing heavily after moving to your side so fast to save you.
Staring up at the man who held you, you searched his face for signs of this being a trap. Perhaps the warning bells were muted in your mind the longer you appreciated Brian. He truly was the biggest self-indulgence you had succumbed to. And as you took him in for the umpteenth time tonight, you realised he was incredibly dangerous for you.
There was a reason you had dreamed him into existence in the first place. He was the person you had wanted to fill your world. And now that he was here, physically here, and holding you, some of the parts in his story didn’t need to add up anymore.
“You okay, Y/N?”
“You saved me,” you spoke, and Brian nodded.
“I wouldn’t let you fall if I could stop it,” he told you, his lips spreading out into the most beautiful smile you had ever witnessed in your life before.
You knew in that moment that you would blur every line there was to make sure Brian Kang didn’t go back to wherever he had come from.
You wanted him to hold you like this forever.
_________________
Part 5
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Text
For A Greater Good 16/18
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Not my gif. Before It’s Too Late
Summary: Kate Williams, young healer and member of the Order,  joins Durmstrang’s staff at Dumbledore’s request. Her mission? Find a Death Eater and survive long enough to tell the story. Set in 1996.
Pairing: Charlie Weasley x ofc/mc
Masterlist
[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3] [Part 4] [Part 5]
[Part 6] [Part 7] [Part 8] [Part 9] [Part 10]
[Part 11] [Part 12] [Part 13] [Part 14]
[Part 15]
--
Warnings: mentions of blood and wounds
Classes were over, grades had been hung in the corridor, and Durmstrang celebrated that another year was over. 
Kate was forcing a comb through her brown waves when she heard laughter and hasty footsteps outside her dorm. Returning her attention to her hair, she pressed more insistently on the knot that was refusing to untangle and contemplated the day ahead of her; the Annual Exposition of Dark Arts had arrived and with it, the crushing fear of not leaving Durmstrang anytime soon.
She had told Dumbledore and Rhode she was no auror; she didn’t have training in catching criminals, if that’s what one of these people were.
“Well, it’s not like someone will raise their hand and say ‘it’s me, Kate, take me to Azkaban.’” She murmured to her reflection in the rusty mirror next to the door.
Why? Why had Dumbledore put her there? What was she supposed to do? Almost six months had passed; she had heard from Dumbledore only once, and Rhode was so busy with the school’s events that had practically forgotten why she was there.
But Kate still remembered. She still remembered what happened to Flavia Hodges.
Having abused her locks enough, she attempted to shape them into curls, twirling some hairs around her finger. When she finished, she traced her dragon necklace before securing it under her robes.
Who would be willing to join a Dark Wizard? And why? For a greater good, as Corentin had said? Or maybe for more personal reasons? No one was exempt from guilt, no one was good or bad; Cassandra Steiner was rude and disagreeable, but she was a mediwizard and cared for others; Flavia Hodges was almost murdered and Kent Jorgensen would have protected the man he thought was guilty, but he wasn’t ill-intended and seemed to be a clever man; Leron Angelov was sick and violent with his son, but he had enough problems to be a criminal; Libor Marek was intolerant and prejudiced, adequate characteristics for a Death Eater, but that didn’t make him one; and the only thing that Kate knew about Mer Yankelevich was that she was a liar.
She let out a heavy sigh and made her way to the desk. After grabbing her cloak from her chair and fastening it around her neck, she grabbed the several items she intended to carry with her at all times: her wand, her diary, the list and the trick wand that the Weasley twins had sent her.
The night before, tidying up her belongings, she had found the box that Fred and George had sent her and thought it could be a good farewell gift to Vivien, in case she wanted to give a lesson to Jon Hopkins.
She felt uncomfortable with everything she was carrying on her. The list and her notebook were inside her improvised pockets, and both wands were safely tucked in each sleeve. Impractical for the occasion, but with everyone distracted with the AEDA, it was very easy for someone to slip out of there unseen, and she had no intention of anyone walking into her room and finding those items. After fastening her ankle boots, she headed outside.
 Rhode had not been exaggerating when she described the AEDA as the biggest event of the year; the corridors were ostentatiously decorated with garlands and lights; countless carriages arrived on the castle grounds one after another and the doors to the dining hall were open all day, held up by pillars from which people could grab pamphlets describing the event’s activities.
Tables had been rearranged to form the various displays, and the students were dressed in their finest robes to honour the occasion.
The hustle and bustle of the day made the place unrecognisable, characterised by its usual gloom and darkness.
She advanced through the hall, pausing from time to time to watch project demonstrations and congratulate those taking part in the competition. Her eyes fell on a familiar face next to her; Leron Angelov sat behind a table where a seventh-grade girl explained her work to three wizards who, judging by their golden robes, were the judges.
“The potion lets you transfigure into whatever animal or object at will, only for a few minutes…” she exposed. Kate approached Angelov and leaned in to whisper, “Don’t do that.” Leron stared at her and stopped scratching his arms.
After wandering around for a while, she finally reached her own table, greeted her students and settled wizards and witches filed in and out of the room, delighting in the students’ magnificent works.
She wished with all her might that she could share their enthusiasm.
She gave several forced smiles, for Rhode’s sake, as the organiser of the event she wanted everything to go smoothly, but deep inside she was overwhelmed by a deep worry that she didn’t know how much longer she could bear.
“It’s really ugly.” She overheard one of her students, Greta, referring to her umbrella flower. Several of her children were standing behind a table, presenting their work to the audience.
A single umbrella flower, magically modified to remain a medium size, floated above the table; its vibrant red colour stood out among the sober tones of the place. The top of the plant, usually hollow to do justice to its name, now was decorated with thirty-seven fangs all around the base, giving it the appearance of a weird-looking lamp.
“You should be proud,” she reminded them, “You’ve managed to do something wonderful.”
“It’s still horrendous.” Jon Hopkins commented, wrinkling his nose.
“We’ve done next to nothing...” lamented Micael. Kate raised her eyebrows.
“What do you mean, you haven’t? We needed every single one of your plants, remember they didn’t all germinate, and only one of them got these results. And these posters explaining the whole process? They are priceless...”
They were still not convinced, so she kept insisting “In a few years, someone will want to do the same as you and they will be grateful to have your work as a reference”.
A man and a woman approached their table and after reading a few paragraphs of their report, left without comment. Everyone visibly deflated.
“By the way, where is Vivien? I have something for her...” asked Kate. Micael shrugged.
She looked around, but it was impossible to find anyone among the crowd. She saw a few familiar faces; like Jorgensen chatting animatedly with some seventh year students or Sheyi Mawut, who was making his way through the wizards towards her. There was no sign of any other teacher.
“Well, well! This is the first time in a long time I’ve seen first-year students exhibiting. What have we got here?” Mawut looked at Kate with a smile and she touched two fingers to Micael’s elbow. The boy looked at her and Kate nodded.
“We have created the first umbrella flower with teeth, Professor! It’s one of a kind because the species itself is unique. It floats like an umbrella flower and has teeth like a fanged geranium...”
Kate watched proudly as Micael’s other classmates came up to support him in his rehearsed explanation, some interrupting the speech out of excitement at being able to contribute something.
“And you did this on your own?” Suddenly the children fell silent and looked at the ground or anywhere but Mawut’s face.
“They’ve done all the hard work,” Kate interjected, “Finding the plant, germinating it, growing the geraniums, crossing the two species...”
“How wonderful... can I read your notes?” Mawut let out a laugh as a mountain of notebooks were at his disposal in a matter of seconds. “Maybe just one will be enough.”
The teacher’s kindness managed to relax Kate just a little.
“I’ve got better at my flying practice, Coach Mawut!” Greta commented, “Do you think I’ll ever be as good as Lena?” Kate raised her head at the familiar name.
“I’m sure you will.”
“Who?” she asked to extend that conversation.
“Lena?” Mawut pointed to some drawings and nodded, smiling, “Lena Yankelevich, she was an impressive seeker. Several top teams like the Vratsa Vultures or Heidelberg Harriers wanted to make contracts with her.”
“What happened?” Mawut closed the notebook and thanked Micael for his explanation. Greta tugged at Kate’s sleeve, causing the fake wand to brush against her skin.
“She died, Professor Williams...” she lamented.
“In the middle of a match… She disappeared into the mountains and never came back. Some Muggle climbers were in the area and saw her, and we found her surrounded by three men who had stolen her broom. But we shouldn’t have gone...” He paused and in a quieter voice added, “The climbers got scared when they saw us. There was a lot of commotion and they pushed Lena... down the cliff. No one knew how Lena had come to that situation.”
A witch casually approached the table and wrote something down on a piece of paper. Everyone around her watched in silence as she looked at the plant and then nodded before turning away.
Mawut went to add something else, but Libor Marek joined them.
“This is an unfair competition.... and what is this? A plant?” He grimaced, and Kate glanced at Mawut before averting her eyes to the rest of the room.
Astrid Rhode had stepped on the pallet where her lectern stood. After rearranging her papers, the witch cleared her throat and drew everyone’s attention to her.
“I can’t begin to express how wonderful it is to have all of you here on this special occasion. To honour this event, let me introduce you to Lazar Berović, a former winner of the AEDA thanks to his system to identify and capture chameleon ghouls.” Kate joined the round of applause with little interest. The man in question took Astrid’s place and started his speech.
Her mind drifted to the single hair that had fallen on her sleeve, and she dully grabbed it between two fingers as slowly as she could, making an effort of not listening the ghoul-hunting narrative they were being ‘gifted’.
She had a document whose content had expanded over the last month, completing a full page and a successfully finished project. There was nothing to keep her at that school any longer. Nothing, except the original reason she was there: to find a supposed Death Eater.
But I want to leave.
Would Dumbledore be angry if she returned early? But how much longer would she have to stay?
I want to go home. I want to go to Charlie.
Then come home.
Charlie’s voice again, echoing in her head as if he were talking to her right next to her. This time she didn’t panic, it was the push she needed to make her decision. Dumbledore would have to settle for the list.
But she would be leaving a bunch of children in the hands of a murderer. No, she’d figure it out when she was safe. If anyone wanted the scroll Kate had in her possession, she’d have to flee before it was too late.
The speech was over, and the room filled with the previous murmur of happiness and excitement.
“Excuse me...” Kate stepped away from the group, leaving Micael in charge of defending the front, and made her way to the door.
She hadn’t realised how much she’d become accustomed to the noise until she’d walked a few corridors away from the dining room. With everyone partying in the middle, Kate and the silence went hand in hand all the way to the library. Or at least, that was where she was headed, had she not come face to face with Corentin.
“Ah, Katherine, I was just on my way to the exhibition...” The librarian’s smile crumbled at the sight of her expression.
“Corentin...” she whispered, “I think... I need to get out of here.” They both looked around, but they were alone.
“And how do you plan to do that? With a carriage? They don’t leave until the 20th.”
“I have to go get my trunk and apparate. I don’t know... I’ll jump to Romania and... then to England.” Corentin shook his head.
“I’d recommend three jumps at least.”
“I don’t know that many places! I don’t know where we are!”
“Keep your voice down.” They dissimulated again as two wizards passed in front of them. They greeted each other cordially, and when they were out of range, Corentin grabbed Kate’s elbow. “Everyone is in the Dining Hall. In fifteen minutes the band Rhode has brought will start playing so everyone will be paying attention. Go to your room and stay there until I let you know.”
“What are you planning?”
“We’ll apparate together. We’ll do Sweden, Germany, France and you go to England alone.”
“Corentin...”
“You go. I’ll pick you up in half an hour.” The librarian didn’t give Kate a chance to question him, and she watched him march in his bat form down the corridor.
She turned and broke into a jog towards the side staircase on the ground floor, a shortcut that would take her to her bedroom. She slowed when she felt a presence around her. She sensed desperation by legilimency, and it wasn’t her own. Anger too, even fear.
She turned a corner, but someone was waiting for her. Strong but elegant hands clamped over her mouth and grabbed her robe, pinning her against a chest.. Her pulse quickened, as did her breathing. She tried to free herself from the arm that held her, but it was too strong.
Slowly, the hand covering her mouth slid to the side and reached her neck. Kate couldn’t breathe. She felt the hand tighten around her neck and Mer Yankelevich’s needle-like nails made contact with her skin.
“Give me your wand.” Kate made a movement too sharp for the teacher’s liking and she gripped her tighter. “Slowly.” She tried to take a deep breath, but she had begun to shake in such a way she couldn’t concentrate on her breathing. “Give me your wand, now.”
With an idea half-formed in her head, she moved her left arm to release the wand. Seeing her, Mer snatched it from her hand and jabbed it into her back. “Let’s go for a walk. Don’t even think about running or screaming” They strolled to the other end of the ground floor. They passed by several wizards and in the eyes of the world everything was normal.
Just as the teacher muttered “Incarcerous” the Weasley twins’ wand trap rose into the air and began to hit Mer in the head. Taking advantage of her absent-mindedness, Kate broke free of her grip and ran off in search of the front door. She pulled her real wand out of her other sleeve, knowing Mer was very close behind her.
Just a little closer.
She ran through the sea of people in front of the door, hoping to get lost in the crowd. She glanced back as she went, but there was no sign of the teacher.
She left the castle with bated breath, and hastily pulled her diary from her pocket, muttered ‘Reducto’ turning it into a tiny, almost unrecognisable object, and continued running towards the bridge.
Maybe she could take refuge in the forest, go to the coordinates Dumbledore had given her, maybe the stranger would find her if it was an emergency. She cursed when she remembered she had burned the map.
She was about to reach the other side of the bridge when something hit her from behind, causing her to fall to the ground.
With a scream she hit the stone, and from the ground she saw Mer Yankelevich striding towards her. She looked around frantically, searching for her wand. She reached out and drew the weapon towards her before pointing it at the teacher.
Yankelevich paused, pointing her wand at Kate, and waited for her to rise from the ground. Both witches stared down at each other in a duelling stance, and the spells soon began to explode. Kate fought back as best she could, trying to remember some of Marek’s tricks, but Mer was the Charms teacher and she knew that at any moment she would tire herself out until she lost.
“You’ve got something that’s mine!” shouted Mer between curses.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Kate started to walk backwards, trying to go around Mer and turn her back on the castle, but the teacher was quicker and cornered her against the bridge wall.
“The stone! Where is it?”
“I don’t have any stone!” Kate peeled away from the bridge wall, dodging spells with little grace. One in particular made her ears pop, and she could barely hear Mer accusing her of lying repeatedly.
“How did you get in the room?” shouted Yankelevich, “The column broke!” Kate gasped as a stunning spell hit her leg and she staggered backwards. Focused on not falling to the floor, she didn’t notice the parchment flying out of her robes.
“You broke it?” Kate asked as she tried to catch her breath, “Why?”
“It wasn’t on purpose. That’s the entrance to Grindelwald’s room, and I was trying to open it.” She took a few steps towards Kate, pointing her wand at her. “So tell me; how did you get in?” her accusatory tone made the young witch flinch. Kate bit her tongue, physically, to avoid revealing how wrong she was. In case she didn’t make it out of this situation alive, the teacher must not know her way into the room.
With Charlie in mind, she lowered her wand, hoping to give Yankelevich a sense of security. Band music began to play from inside the castle, conveniently deafening those inside and isolating them from the catastrophe that may or may not be occurring on the bridge.
In only an instant, Kate noticed how the teacher got distracted by the sound of the instruments and took advantage of her glance over her head to begin a duelling offensive. Mer defended herself gracefully, dodging and occasionally returning her opponent’s attacks. Kate’s chances diminished with each spell.
Yankelevich turned her back on the castle, and it was at that moment Kate realised her previous oversight. There, at the feet of the person who might be her executioner, the list of Death Eaters’ names lay within her grasp.
“Mer,” she began cautiously, “all this is for your sister? None of this is worth it.”
“What do you know! Do you have a dead sibling? You have no idea...” It was a stab in the heart without knowing it. The internal debate in Kate’s stomach was making her dizzy, and as she considered whether to tell her story, the teacher crouched at the sight of the document. “We all lose loved ones. Angelov, Jorgensen, Marek, myself.” Mer ignored her.
“So this is how Karkarov intended to communicate with the Ministry...” The parchment flew through the air as Kate’s spell impacted against the teacher’s hand. Both witches began a dance of lights and explosions again, swirling around unknowingly gravitating towards each other.
The castle doors burst open and a third wave of spells shot towards them. Libor Marek was almost galloping in their direction furiously airing his wand.
“Mer!”
Kate let out a choked cry as Yankelevich twisted her arm backwards. She had managed to physically reach her and after pulling at her forearm, one hand with threatening nails anchored her neck against the teacher’s chest; with the other, she pointed her wand at Kate’s temple.
Both witches looked at Marek with completely opposite expressions.
“Mer... Let go of the girl.” He warned, holding up a hand.
“Look, your guardian angel has arrived. Day after day, that man has been preventing you and I from having a friendly chat, always sitting outside your classroom, hovering in the corridors without letting you out of his sight,” she turned to Marek, “tell me Libor, what has this girl done for you?”
“This is not about her. You think I don’t know you were seeing Karkarov on the sly? You think I don’t know that you threatened to turn him in to the Ministry? You think I don’t know that you’re the one who’s been trying to get to that imaginary room?”
“It’s real! She got in with the help of the bat she has as a friend. And now she’s going to tell me how.”
Kate couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “You knew?” The accusation was drowned out when the grip around her neck tightened. “She tried to kill Flavia! She practically couldn’t speak!”
“And who do you think stopped her from going to the hospital wing to finish the job, huh?”
“Enough.” Mer finished. She forced Kate to walk to the bridge wall and bent her over the stone. She stared straight into the eyes of the abyss; the fog prevented her from seeing the end, if the cliff had one, and she knew that if she didn’t act soon all that would be left of her would be her memory. “I’m only going to ask you one more time. You found the resurrection stone, where is it?”
“There was no stone!”
She felt the needle stick as if it had happened in slow motion. She brought her hand to her neck as Mer released her and managed to drop to the ground just before the barrage of spells between her and Marek reached her. If she was dizzy before, now she was convinced she was going to throw up.
She slid down the stone to the ground as her vision blurred. She squeezed her eyes shut and opened them again, trying to maintain some control over her body. Spotting her wand near her, she awkwardly crawled towards it, avoiding a violet light that flew treacherously close to her.
She tried to get to her feet, but instantly collapsed again. The nausea was increasing, her vision was blurring more and more, her pulse was throbbing. She pushed her hair out of her face as best she could and rubbed her eyes, but she couldn’t quite focus on the dancing figures circling before her.
Corentin was waiting for her somewhere, probably by the door of her room to take her to a safer place. But she couldn’t reach him, not without the list.
Kate frantically searched for the paper somewhere on the bridge, hoping with all her might that the wind wouldn’t suddenly pick up. Moving her head like that did not help her condition, and the migraines she had been experiencing made their appearance to reinforce her misfortune.
Where were the cavalry? Why was no one from the castle coming to the rescue?
A bitter taste rose in her throat, forcing her to spit out some saliva, which to her horror was whitish. 
No one would come to help her. She would have to save herself.
With what little energy she had left, she stumbled to her feet and took a few steps towards the other side of the bridge. The list was at her fingertips, but the world was spinning and twisting, and now both hands were trembling.
The moment her hand made contact with the paper, a spell exploded against the stone above her head. But she couldn’t back out now. She reached out and caught the parchment between her fingers. She pointed her wand at herself, still shaking, and felt the familiar tug in her stomach that would pull her out. Yankelevich looked with terrified eyes at what was about to happen and pointed her wand at Kate.
The green light of the unforgivable curse never grazed her.
  Kate collapsed to the floor of the grimy Grimmauld Place street with a sob. Corentin had warned her about this; I recommend at least three jumps, the librarian had said.
Lying on the floor with her arms stretched out on her sides, she looked to her right; her eyes were full of tears and her arm full of blood. 
I recommend at least three jumps.
She felt herself choked up again. This time, some foam adorned the corners of her lips, while trying to reach her wand with her left hand.
Three weary taps against the ground caused the building in front of her to awaken, revealing the door of the Black family home. Breathing was getting harder and harder, and with her ears increasingly clogged, Kate tried, to no avail, to stop her splinching from bleeding. Without dittany, it would be impossible.
She raised her wand towards the building with a groan. Unable to utter a word, she concentrated on firing several red lights into the windows. Some bounced off the walls and others off the glass, and she prayed it would be enough, for keeping her arm up was draining her strength.
As the convulsions became more violent, her hand fell to the floor with the rest of her body.
Attempting to keep her eyes open, she made out figures coming out of the house; one was a lanky, black blob she likened to a Dementor by the way his cloak moved; the other was much shorter and rounder with a hint of red hair. The rest of the people who rushed at her were indistinguishable.
Severus Snape forced her eyes open with his fingers, wearing a worried expression. Recognising him, Kate screamed, or at least she thought she did. The only sound that came out of her mouth was a painful sob.
“Darling, darling, look at me, it’s going to be alright,” Molly reassured. Kate wanted to shout that nothing was right, that she was in danger, that the man who was pouring the contents of a potion down her throat was a traitor.
The convulsions hadn’t stopped yet, but the unbearable burning in her arm did. She wanted to watch her wound heal, but Molly clutched her tear-soaked cheek preventing her from seeing the amount of blood that had gushed out from her arm.
“You’ll be fine, sweetheart, you’ll be fine.”
She choked on her saliva and Molly tilted her head to help her spit out the remnants of foam. Several conversations sprang up around her; all seemed distant, like an echo in a cavern.
When the shaking stopped, the relief was almost immediate. Snape forced her jaw open, emptying a vial into her mouth again. The commotion didn’t seem to end; several wizards and witches combed the street for any Muggle witnesses, and others were busy inspecting windows and doors.
Intense pain engulfed her head and mind. Attributing it to migraines, Kate missed the long, silver strand that shot from her temple in the direction of an unknown wand. She closed her eyes, and with one last deep breath everything went black.
--
[Part 17]
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A/N: Oooooooooof I dont know how did you react to this I’m so nervous
Tag List: @eldritchscreech​
@meteora-fc​
@cazreadsstuff 
@the-navistar-carol​
@am-i-space​
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More Hearts Than Mine - Part I
As always, I do not own anything that you’re familiar with - Newsies, songs, characters, etc. This is loosely based on the song “More Hearts Than Mine” by Ingrid Andress. This has been rattling around in my head for a while and I decided to sit down and write it. As always, feedback would be wonderful! Warnings: cursing
Race - 17 years old, junior in high school - living at Medda’s Spot - 18 years old, senior in high school Charlie - 17 years old, junior in high school - living at Medda’s Amelia - 17 years old, junior in high school Albert - 16 years old, sophomore in high school - living at Medda’s Finch - 16 years old, sophomore in high school Smalls - 13 years old, 8th grade - living at Medda’s Romeo - 10 years old, 3rd grade - living at Medda’s Henry - 4 years old, daycare - living at Medda’s Jack - 19 years old, sophomore in college
October 4, 2019
“Let’s go! All of you are going to be late!” She hollered, her voice carrying throughout the house. Mornings were always crazy in the household but Medda wouldn’t have it any other way. It was always busy with six foster children running around getting into various amounts of mischief. To say, there was never a dull moment in the house and Medda lived for it.
Standing in the middle of the kitchen, she grinned seeing her children file in, sleep still in their eyes. She narrowed her eyes seeing a yawn escape his mouth. “Cover your mouth, Racer.”
Race looked at her with a grin. “Sorry momma. It’s Friday y'all.”
Charlie snorted, shaking his head. “Don’t matter because we’ve got a Chemistry exam that we’ve gotta get through before the weekend.”
“Don’t remind me.” Race groaned, throwing his head back as Smalls and Romeo joined him at the table.
Medda raised an eyebrow at the two. “Are you both ready for the exam?”
“Study hall right before it.” Charlie grinned, looking over at Race.
She shook her head. “An hour isn’t enough time to cram.”
“At least you don’t have a history exam.” Albert threw himself into a chair giving his older brothers a glance. “I second Charlie’s comment about study hall.”
Henry came running in, yelling about something. Medda raised an eyebrow, looking around the room, trying to see if anyone knew what was up with her youngest. Race, Charlie, and Albert all shrugged while Smalls and Romeo were focused on the bowls of cereal in front of them.
“Hey Henry, cool it.” Albert yelled, grabbing Henry and putting him at the opposite end of the table. “Can’t we have a breakfast in peace once in a while?”
Charlie shook his head, looking at his little brother. “You’re one to talk, Albie. Usually you and Racer are going at each other’s throats and causing a ruckus at breakfast. If we don’t have a quiet one, it’s typically your fault.”
Knowing she needed to squash whatever was happening in front of her before it got out of hand, Medda looked around the kitchen. “Hey remember Jack’s coming home tonight.” Medda called, causing the usual chaos of the kitchen to come to a standstill.
Concerned with the sudden quietness, Medda looked up from the six lunches she was packing. “You guys didn’t forget did you?”
“Uhhh no momma. Didn’t realize it came up so quickly.” Race was the first to recover pushing a bright smile on his face as he looked around at his foster siblings. “When will he be here?”
Medda smiled. “He said about 5, just in time for dinner. Don’t dilly dally tonight. Come home and get your homework done so you don’t have to don’t have to worry about it this weekend.”
“Did he say why he was coming home?” Albert bit into an apple, giving the room a wide glance.
Medda smirked. “As if that boy needs a reason to come home. He did mention he was bringing someone home with him.”
Several pairs of eyes widened at her statement as she levelset with each of her children. “Now listen here you’re going to leave your brother and whoever he brings home alone. No giving him crap or being the normal pain in the butts you are.”
“As if we’d ever do that.” Race’s jaw dropped looking first at Medda before looking between Albert and Charlie.
Medda sighed, pointing a finger looking at her oldest three. “Treat Jack’s guest as I treated you when you first came to live with me. If I hear of you pulling any tricks or pranks, you’ll be answering not only to me but I’ll let Jack deal with you as well.”
“Momma!” Albert and Race yelled, knowing that her threat was real. Between Medda and Jack, Albert and Race could only imagine the punishment they would cook up for them.
She chuckled, watching them shake their heads. “Be nice and be the kids I’m trying to raise you to be.”
“Ugh momma, why do you have to take all the fun out of it?” Race gave her a grin.
Medda grinned. “I’m not ruining your fun. I’m just telling you to behalf like the civilized children I know you to be. Now get going before you miss the bus.”
She quickly handed off the lunches she had packed before pressing kisses to each of their foreheads as she watched them walk out the door. She looked over at the three still sitting at the table with a grin. “Finish up and we’ll leave in ten minutes.”
Taking a sip of her coffee, she shook her head at the kids, knowing that they all loved their older brother dearly. “Momma?”
Looking up from her coffee cup, she looked over at Smalls. “Yes, Smalls?”
“Can we start up the conversation again about getting a dog?” She grinned, looking hopeful at her mother. “You know since Jack’s moved out and he had the energy of a dog.”
The calendar on the fridge caught her attention. “Felicity! Don’t talk about your brother like that. I thought we were going to table that until the summer.”
“Well . . . it’s almost summer,” Smalls grinned, raising her eyebrow in hope. Romeo, and Henry both stopped eating momentarily, looking between their sister and momma. “Come on Momma . . . what’s holding you back?”
“Summer is 9 months away. We’re going to be late if we don’t get a move on.” She gave the four a look. “We’ll table this discussion for when everyone is home and has a say.”
Smalls gave her mom a knowing look. “Because you know what everyone is going to say. Why not just say yes and we’ll tell everyone later?”
“Felicity, car now.” Holding out a lunch bag, she gave her daughter a look before pointing to the garage door. Her younger brothers followed suit as Medda grabbed her purse, keys and her own lunch with a sigh before following them out the door.
11:00am - Study Hall
Flipping open his Chemistry book, he tried to focus on the chapters the exam would cover. Looking across the room, he saw Charlie sitting with Amelia, his best friend since childhood, both of them absorbed in their studying. He sighed, flipping pages but not really paying attention to what he was reading. Feeling someone sit beside him, he picked his head up from his book. “You’ve been quiet all morning, what’s going on?”
Spot Conlon was one that was very protective of those around him and when those in his personal circle were not themselves, Spot Conlon was one to pick up on it immediately. Race often joked he should become a detective after high school.
“Jack’s comin’ home.” Race sighed, running a hand over his curls. “And he’s bringing someone back.”
Spot leaned back in his chair, whistling. “Any info on that person?”
“Momma didn’t know. Just that he’ll be home around 5, in time for dinner.” Race looked at his boyfriend. “I’m excited that he’s coming home but he’s never brought someone home before.”
Spot nodded, having been around the Larkin household since Race was adopted eight years ago. “Think it might be a girl or are you leaning towards a roommate?”
“I just talked to him yesterday and he didn’t mention anything about a girl.” Race sighed. “You know Jackie, he can’t keep his mouth shut normally.”
Biting his lip, Spot sighed. “Knowing Jackie, it’ll all be okay. Whoever this person is, should be more nervous than you.”
“What does that mean?” Race turned in his chair, giving his boyfriend a look.
Spot chuckled. “You and your siblings are an intimidating crew. Y’all look innocent but when you want, you all can be evil.”
Nodding, Race chuckled. “You’re right but momma put the kibosh on that. Will you come over tonight for dinner?”
“Medda alright with that?” Spot raised an eyebrow, giving his boyfriend a look.
Shrugging, Race closed his book with a slam. “She didn’t say anything about no boyfriends. I’m sure Finch and Amelia will be over just like normal.”
“I’ll be there.” Spot agreed. “I’ll text my sis and let her know.”
“Wanna dump all your Chemistry knowledge on me in the next thirty minutes?” Race leaned over, stealing a kiss from Spot with a grin.
Spot smirked. “You’re going to need more than 30 minutes, stud. You’ll need all the help you can get; all of which, unfortunately, I cannot help with.”
“Spottie . . . . please.” Race pleaded, giving him his best puppy dog eyes.
Leaning over, he kissed him, smirking. “Open your book and we’ll see what we can get through before the bell.”
4:30pm
Like any afternoon after school, the dining room table at Medda’s was rambunctious and loud. Nine kids were crammed around the table, each with their homework scattered around them. Medda was standing at the stove, stirring the sauce in the pot while listening to each of the kids talk about their day.
“Homework almost done?” Medda called, raising her voice a bit to be heard over the kids.
Various confirmations came from the table as she looked over at them. “Please put your stuff away and help set the table. Spot, Amelia, Finch, you staying for dinner?”
“If that’s okay, Medda?” Spot called, stuffing his book and notebook back into his backpack.
“Always sugar.” She grinned, raising a silent eyebrow in Finch and Amelia’s direction.
Finch nodded with a grin while Amelia hesitated. “Sorry Medda, mom’s making dinner and wants all her kids home tonight.”
“No worries, Amelia. I’m sure we’ll see you at some point this weekend?” Medda asked, looking at Charlie’s best friend.
She nodded with a grin. “I’ll be around. I’ll see you guys later.”
Several goodbyes were yelled as she made her way out the front door. Medda shook her head at the girl before stirring the pot of sauce on the stove. She had long considered Amelia another adopted child with how often she was over at the house. “So you don’t know anything about this person Jack’s bringing home, momma?”
“If I did, I would tell you what I know.” Medda said, looking between Charlie, Albert, and let her gaze land on Race, who asked the question. “Jack called me up last week and asked if it was alright if he brought someone home with him. That’s all he said. Now, he’ll be here in a little bit, so I need all of your bags put up in your rooms and wash your hands. Smalls, Romeo put plates out. Race and Albert silverware and Charlie cups, please.”
With assignments handed out, the kids scattered. Henry sat at the kitchen counter, swinging his legs, back and forth watching Medda with wide eyes. “What can I do momma?”
Looking at the table being set, Medda smiled. “Henry can you make sure every place has a napkin?”
He hopped off his chair doing as he was told while Medda took a moment to relax in the busyness of the house and thankful for everything that surrounded her.
“You alright, momma?” Albert asked, pausing in his movements of laying down the silverware, looking at her.
She smiled. “Just fine baby. Excited that all my children will be in the house this weekend. How’s that table coming along?”
“Almost done momma.” Race called. “How’s the spaghetti?”
She gave it one more stir before nodding. “It’s almost ready.”
“Momma, Race, Charlie, Albert, Smalls, Romeo, Jack’s home and he brought a pretty girl!” Henry yelled as several eyes went wide and the front door was thrown open.
Quickly wiping her hands, Medda put the towel on the counter before following the kids to the front foyer. She smiled at Spot and Finch who stood back, giving the family some space. Medda couldn’t help but tear up as her oldest walked through the door, holding a hand of a pretty girl, just as Henry had exclaimed.
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alwaysmychoices · 4 years
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With and Without - Series Page
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Dr. Charlie Greene doesn't have Ethan Ramsey - not after their brief fling in the spring and painful separation that sent Dr. Ramsey all the way to the Amazon to avoid her. They've worked very hard to rebuild their friendly, professional relationship. But when Charlie's life feels like it's out of control, she finds herself on Ethan's doorstep. They promise each other that it's just one night, but once they've broken all their rules, they can't go back to normal...
Thematic Chapters: Almost - Finally - Broken but Mending - Imperfect - Always and Again
Open Heart 2 AU 
Follows Open Heart 1 AU - “A Weekend with Dr. Ramsey”
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Chapter 1: Just Tonight
“They’d just broken all of their rules…
And it felt better than they expected.
But those rules existed for a reason.”
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Chapter 2: Afterglow
“My Charlie,” he whispered. He hadn’t intended to. The words slipped out, and the implication they carried made Ethan swallow heavily.
He had to let her go in the morning…
She couldn’t be his Charlie. So, why did he feel so sure that she was?”
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Chapter 3: The Morning After
“The truth was that they had a lot to say, but none of it was appropriate. Charlie wanted to tease him about her soreness, and he wanted to pretend as if she’d snored enough to wake all of Boston. They wanted to laugh and kiss and cook breakfast. But they weren’t supposed to, so they didn’t.”
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Chapter 4: The Heist
“Charlie bit her lower lip as she felt drawn even closer to him. Her eyes lingered on his lips because, deep down, she knew that they would soothe the pain and frustration she felt. All she had to do was lean into him…
But Ethan didn’t let her.
Maybe it was an act of self-preservation on his part. Perhaps he didn’t want to make her feel even worse for breaking her rules yet again.”
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Chapter 5: Drinking Games
“It’s called ‘Truth or Drink.’ If someone asks a question, you tell the truth, or you take a drink...”
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Chapter 6: Midnight Call
“This time, she noticed Boston as it passed her window.
It wasn’t as pretty as it had been when she was drunk on Ethan’s kiss…
Then again, nothing really was.”
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Chapter 7: Blind Date
“She had the right to move on. She had the right to dress up and meet new people, and what she did with them was none of Ethan’s business.
So, why did she feel like she’d betrayed him?”
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Chapter 8: Hangover Cure
“Charlie felt like she was seeing a private side of Ethan – one that he didn’t often share. She realized that she might not know Ethan as well as she always thought. But maybe that would change…
And if it did, was that okay?”
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Chapter 9: After Hours
“In that moment, he knew he was going to kiss Charlie Greene, and it was the best thought he’d had in a very long time.”
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Chapter 10: Not the End
A month ago, Charlie knew all the answers.
She knew that she was naïve and reckless to have pursued him in the first place. She regarded her past self with resentment and pity for allowing Ethan to burrow himself in her heart with promises he could never keep. She saw the ensuing chaos and months of painful mistakes as a learning experience. Charlie Greene was smart enough to never trust Ethan Ramsey again.
But was she really?
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Chapter 11: Crying in the Rain
Ethan was everywhere – in her tears, in her cries, in her screams, in her room, in her mind, in her heart.
She finally stopped running, and it was torment.
She hated herself and her decision and the situation and their past and their future. She hated everything with the same breath she loved him, and that was the horrifying realization.
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Chapter 12: Terms of Agreement
“We should probably go to sleep,” Charlie whispered. After their shared shower, she had been meaning to say something about the late hour, but she hadn’t worked up the courage. She wanted just a little bit longer with him, and even as she suggested they go to sleep, she secretly hoped he would reject the idea.
“Mmm,” Ethan hummed, twirling her wet curl around his index finger, “I’m not particularly tired.”
She smiled softly, leaning into his hand as he played with her hair, “I think the interns already hate you enough. We shouldn’t show them sleep-deprived, grumpy Ethan this early in the year.”
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Chapter 13: Close Call
“I’m Charlotte now?” she asked, kissing his shoulder as she added, “Not Charlie? Not Rookie?”
Ethan’s attempt at a stern expression melted the moment she said ‘Rookie.’ He couldn’t help but be happy when he heard that. Hell, he couldn’t help but be happy period. Everything felt right – like a million puzzle pieces had finally clicked into place. This was where they belonged. He felt so happy that he was sure that he didn’t deserve it. People like him didn’t get to experience this, did they?
“Charlie and Rookie would realize that they still need to go to work today,” Ethan teased.
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Chapter 14: Jealousy & Pasta
“Charlie, I’m yours, secret or not,” Ethan, though shocked that he had so say it at all, meant it, and Charlie knew it. He stood, crossing the small distance be next to her. In the dim light, he found her hand and squeezed it, reassuring them both.
“Even when I’m not special?” Charlie laughed at the end of the question, framing it like a joke, but the laugh was hollow. And it was never a joke.
“You’re always special, Charlie,” Ethan kissed between Charlie’s eyebrows, where worry creased her skin.
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Chapter 15: An Accidental Dinner Party
“Your dad is here?” Charlie whispered, practically a hiss.
“You said you were busy tonight!” Ethan whispered back.
“We’ve been standing here this whole time, and you couldn’t just say that?” she quietly accused.
“What did you think was going on?”
“You’re hiding your door. What do you think I thought?!” Charlie looked at him like he was stupid, and as it dawned at him, he realized he was.
“You thought I was with someone else?” Ethan knew they were running out of time. They needed to figure out what to do and what to say if they were caught, but he was so shocked that she could think that of him doing that to her he couldn’t ask anything else.
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Chapter 16: Contamination
“And as she walked away, despite everything, Charlie felt light – like everything would be okay, like this story had a happy ending.
It was the last time she would feel that way for a long time.”
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Chapter 17: Making Amends
Once again, he failed to protect her from catastrophe.
Now, if he didn’t act fast enough, he may never get the chance to protect her again.
The pressure was unbearable.
And it distracted him. It weakened him. It made him stupid and hesitant.
He couldn’t cure her like this. He had to find a way to walk away, to shed the limitations of affection and partiality.
How could he forgive himself if she died because he loved her too much to save her?
Yet, when he looked at Charlie… he didn’t know how to turn it off. Once more, he wanted to break the fucking door down and hold her.
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Chapter 18: Is This Goodbye?
He was devastated to look at her like this, alone and scared. He could see the exhaustion etched in her face, and he knew she hadn’t slept. He doubted she had sat for more than hour all together today. She was so stubborn… And so isolated…
“Can I stay?” Ethan asked impulsively.
Charlie jerked in surprise, instinctively taking a small step back. He missed her proximity immediately.
“Won’t the team miss you?” Charlie asked.
“I don’t care. I want to be here with you.”
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Chapter 19: Meeting the Parents 
Ethan didn’t know if she would ever be the same.
He wasn’t sure if he would either.
Irritably, Ethan stirred in his bed. The sheets were too cold. And it was too empty without her.
He eyed his cell phone, looking for any sign of a notification. There was none, so he lunged for his phone just in case. There was no new message, no call, no alert.
She must be fine then, he thought.
It didn’t sit right though. The absence of a threat didn’t make him feel safe. He wouldn’t believe it until he saw it for himself – until he saw the rise and fall of each breath.
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Chapter 20: The Memorial
“Ethan didn’t leave her side, not for a single second. Not when they parked at the cemetery and were surrounded by friends and coworkers. Not when people tried to call him over to give their condolences. Not when Charlie’s friends surrounded and showered her in support. Especially not when Danny and Bobby’s families greeted her and thanked her for all she did to try to save them. Not after, when they stepped away, Charlie collapsed into his side, tears running down her face. He never left her.”
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Chapter 21: The Cabin 
Without thinking, Charlie jumped into the lake.
Charlie sank quickly into the dark, icy water. Her skin burned at the sudden temperature change, and the cold slowly set into her body until her bones themselves felt the chill. The fog dissipated, allowing her nerves to be singed with the sensation. She felt everything. She felt the anxiety in her chest. She felt the lead in her feet. And she felt the deep, aching cry begging to be released.
Deep beneath the surface, Charlie screamed.
And for that one moment, it was the most freeing thing she had ever done.
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Chapter 22: Are You Still There?
“…I finished the season,” Charlie chewed on her lower lip.
“What happened to us watching it together?” Ethan asked, indignant.
“It was an accident!” Charlie protested, “Besides, if you let me come back to work, we wouldn’t have this problem.”
“You're not ready," Ethan combatted confidently, "and your appointment is today at two," Ethan reminded firmly.
"I know. It's not like I have anything else to do," Charlie interrupted.
Ethan wasn't satisfied by her answer. In fact, he felt sure that he wouldn't be satisfied with anything until he knew she safely arrived at that therapist's office at two p.m. 
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Chapter 23: Forgiveness 
He had never been this disappointed and angry while also overwhelmed with love, and he wasn’t sure how to proceed with such conflicting feelings. He loved Charlie so much, but he was also so angry. He simultaneously longed to run to her and run away from her.
Then there was Louise…
Ethan recoiled from the thought, eager to get her out of his mind as she had been for decades. He knew he was angry at her. He might even hate her. But that was all locked away now, safely put out of reach so he never had to experience it. He registered that it began to boil over, and it triggered his instinct to run. There was a moment where Ethan thought he ought to stay – to experience the pain just as he begged Charlotte to experience hers – but he lacked the skills, or maybe he lacked the bravery.
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Chapter 24: Louise
When he wore the white coat, he was Dr. Ramsey. Without it, he was just Ethan – a grown man still mourning the tragedies of his youth.
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Chapter 25: Retirement Talks
She needed to stop fearing Edenbrook. If she didn’t, she could never return to Edenbrook.
Those were easy things to say – very appealing in its rationality.
But if it was just a building, it was a building haunted. The halls were lined with ghosts of memories long gone, seemingly forgotten by all but Charlie. All the hope and innocence she saw on her first day was replaced with stinging bitterness. She was afraid of what Edenbrook would take from her next.
She didn’t want to be here.
She probably would have left if she hadn’t made lunch plans with Kyra – who, of course, was late.
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Chapter 26: Ski Resort 
When Charlie entered, they gave her their full attention. They were genuinely happy to see her return. They still believed in her, it seemed. Not that she should be surprised, she reminded herself. But she was a little. She’d forgotten how it felt to be the prodigy, not the shattered impersonation of one.
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Chapter 27: Drinking with Friends
She wanted to kiss him. 
She found herself leaning in and had to pull herself back.
Ethan smiled to himself.
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Chapter 28: Kiss Me Like Nobody’s Watching
“If it makes you feel better, I had a crush on you first.”
“You had a crush on me?” Ethan smirked.
“Don’t smirk! We’re dating. Of course, I had a crush on you.”
“Still, a bit embarrassing, don’t you think?” Ethan teased.
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Chapter 29: The Gala, Part 1
She couldn’t hide in the shadows on a night like this. She couldn’t watch Ethan from across the room and spend another night pretending he was nothing to her. She couldn’t taste freedom and feel satisfied with restraint.
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Part 30: The Gala, Part 2
Ethan had spent the last decade prioritizing all of the wrong things, but he knew better now.
She was the best thing in his life. She mattered more than all of this.
Why had he spent so long denying it?
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Part 31: The Last Nights of Edenbrook
Even when the end of the world had already come and all that was left was to watch it break into its final piece, Edenbrook asked for one final push – one more patient, one more late night, one more sacrifice.
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Part 32: A Toast to Edenbrook
“A toast to Edenbrook!”
To the long nights.
To the frustrating days.
To the lies told and the secrets kept.
To the friends made and the love forged.
To the end of it all….
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Part 33: Last Kiss on the Roof
And so, on the top of the roof, Ethan kissed her.
Their last kiss in Edenbrook.
Their last kiss before they were thrust into an unknown future.
She tasted like cherry candy and vodka, and Ethan smiled into the kiss at the thought.
She is home, he realized.
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Part 34: White Lies
Now, he didn’t touch her at all. Together, they stood and represented the team. The rising star and the cemented icon. So close yet so far. We have to be more careful, Ethan told Charlie in the beginning of the spring, We can’t be seen together. They can’t know. So, they stopped standing so close together at work. They stopped secretly kissing at the end of hallways. He stopped brushing his hand against hers in crowded rooms. She stopped waiting by his car for him to drive her home after the workday ended. Small moments. But once they were all gone, what was left?
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Part 35: Waiting for You
Last night, they’d planned a lovely dinner, but instead of sipping red wine and praising Ethan’s cuisine, they exchanged bitterness and old grudges. It was about everything – yet somehow, it was nothing in retrospect. He was protecting her. Why couldn’t she understand that? She was tired of hiding. Why couldn’t he understand that?
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Part 36: Old Wounds
Charlie’s silence was deafening. 
Ethan waited for her to find a way out of this mess – a gesture he could offer, a promise he could make, a sin he could avoid. When she didn’t, Ethan finally understood the gravity of their grudges and buried wounds. 
It was more than this fight.
It was more than all the fights. 
It was everything – all the way back to the beginning.
And for the first time in a long time, Ethan’s confidence faltered, and he realized that Charlie could really leave him. Unlike all the other nights, they might not emerge unscathed.
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Part 37: Fuel to the Fire 
How did he sleep at night without her?
How did he get out of bed without her?
How did he remember how to live again if he had to do it without her?
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Part 38: Red Lipstick
Once, wearing red had been a gift to Ethan. Tonight, wearing it was a punishment. She would make him appreciate the poison on her lips. Even better, he could see this red lipstick smeared on another man’s lips.
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Part 39: Screaming at a Reflection
“He stormed into Naveen’s office, ignoring the receptionist begging him to wait, and as soon as he crossed the threshold, he announced, “I solved it.” “You talked to her?” hope rose in Naveen’s voice. Maybe peace was still an option. “No,” Ethan didn’t acknowledge their fight in the hall. It would have been a lie to call that a real discussion. But it didn’t matter. Because he’d fixed it. “I know how to get her to stay.” “How?” Naveen furrowed his brow. “I leave first.”
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Part 40: Vending Machine Confession
Separated by more than distance, Ethan and Charlie wandered through the dark night, evading their grief and wishing they could have one more night together. One more call. One more smile. Longing and grief went hand in hand – lovers in a past life.
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Part 41: Making a Run for It
And suddenly, it was so simple that Charlie felt ridiculous for not seeing it before. Charlie loved Ethan more than she loved her reasons keeping them apart, and she deserved the right to say that to his face.
She had to stop him. He hadn’t left yet – she had time.
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Part 42: Compromise in Bloom
Ethan didn’t blame Bloom for hating him. If he had been in the same position, he would have burned the city down just for a chance at having a few minutes with Charlie. 
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Part 43: The Reunion
Ethan quietly pushed Charlie’s hair out of her face, tracing her cheek with his fingertips and committing every detail to memory. And then he remembered that he didn’t have to do that anymore. Ethan was free to admire Charlie every single day, watching her face grow and shape with age for the rest of their lives.
Part 44: coming soon 
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anathewierdo · 3 years
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I’m okay... and I’m surprised by how true that is
I remember being in my first year of high school and just binge watching Supernatural every chance I would get
And I went through the first three seasons going “ok this is awesome but I wish we’d see more of Jo, of Ellen, of Ash, of Bobby, like the brothers are great but I doubt it’s eleven seasons of this”
And then I got to season four and I met Cas and my brain just went “Hoooooly shit this guy! What even is the deal with this guy?! Friend or foe?! Oh he’s a reluctant friend, I like”, but I saw how Dean was with him, I saw The End, I saw that episode where they go after Raphael and I just went “ok so they’re either super duper best friends or they’re boyfriends I’m sure of it”
Then I saw seasons 6 and 7 and I went “did– did they just broke up? Did– wait they’re not best friends anymore NO”
Also, I will forever be grateful to Felícita Day and Robbie Thompson for Charlie Bradbury. She gave me strength and made me smile in some very dark days :).
AND THEN season 8 happened and I went feral. Like holy crap! Benny was amazing! We met Eileen! The whole purgatory plot line was awesome! The drama between the brothers and the problems between, well, EVERYBODY had me at the edge of my seat and then that flashback happened to where Cas let go of Dean’s hand and I just went “Oh my god they’re so together holy shit I bet they got together”
Season 8 was my favorite because of all the things. And that season finale will always remain my favorite because Sam, because Crowley, because Castiel, because Eileen, because Dean... I was just staring at my screen going “this is new levels of epic”. So many storylines were happening and I loved how it all came together for that season finale. It was heartbreaking. It made sense. It was a plot twist I never saw coming but made perfect sense to me in every episode and I loved every second of it.
And I was fine with Dean and Cas not being shown as together together because I kept going “they’re there but they’re not ready. There’s too much going on.” And as a baby queer who was always looking for older queer characters (because I love seeing older queer people, it reminds me that being queer was never a fashion thing like my parents say), the possibility of Dean, of Cas, of Sam being queer meant the world to me, because hell yes, it’s super valid to figure out who you are regardless of your age and who you have or haven’t slept with.
Season 9, 10 and 11 came and went and I just kept going “Cas is so fucking in love. Dean is so fucking in love. They love each other so fucking much” because of how much they would do for each other (don’t get me wrong the Cas being homeless storyline broke my ducking heart)
But like, Cas gave up an army for Dean. Dean refused to do anything that would risk Castiel when he was possessed by Lucifer to defeat Amara. Dean’s “attraction” to Amara was very obviously forced from Dean’s part, because it was some sort of spell.
And season eleven had its issues, but I liked it nonetheless.
Then Mexican Netflix took down Supernatural and my only way of watching the show was through YouTube clips and gifs here.
Then I met someone who sent me season 12 and I just kept going “HOLY SHIT HOW”
Because we got Mary, we got the Men of Letters, we got the whole Nephilim storyline and I was losing my shit because I didn’t– I didn’t know how to process it and I admit I hated Mary for the longest time but rewatching Supernatural two years ago gave me more of a chance to understand her and I actually like her now that I saw her grow in the show (I can’t say the same for John).
Then there was Dean and Cas and they were still fighting to keep each other alive (although they fought a lot from what I remember) and it always seemed like they were just on the brink of being together together but it never happened, and I both hated it and loved it because those two still had some growing to do.
Season 13 messed me up. In the best kind of ways.
Also! Throughout the seasons the family and the Supernatural world grew and grew and grew and I just loved seeing these characters. It fucking broke my heart when we’d see an old friend and they would just die by the end of the episode... but still, I loved those characters.
I loved how Supernatural went from a very white, very straight show, to a show with very good representation sprinkled here and there (sometimes).
Supernatural was problematic and sometimes even bad in a lot of ways, but it was that sprinkle of great representation that kept me there. Because family didn’t end in blood, and it didn’t start there either. And that... that was huge to me.
I cried when Eileen, when Charlie, when Kevin, when Missouri, when Bobby and when others died. How couldn’t I? I grew to love them and know them and it hit home when one of them fell.
Season 14 happened. And I was... I was blown away. For the first time ever I felt like Supernatural had truly reached their wall. Like they couldn’t go any further.
And then G.O.D. Himself was the final villain and I lost it.
The meta, the symbolism, the whole concept of free will.
I was in cloud nine with the possibilities of where this all could go.
And I enjoyed season 15. Ups and downs and everything. I really did. 15x18 was the best thing that could’ve happened because Cas went off script one last time and saved Dean simply by living his truth... to me, it was the silence in the last two episodes that hurt me, but not 15x18 itself.
It felt awesome to see Cas be himself without fear and go down with a smile on his face because he felt truly, genuinely happy. I cried like a baby because he was gone, but I felt so happy for him because he was happy. Because I felt seen.
Then the finale happened.
And I’m not gonna lie, it felt like a kick in the face.
Suddenly the family was gone. Suddenly the show was in 2005 again. Suddenly, it was only Sam and Dean and... I don’t know, it just felt so... empty, to me. After years of the guys not being completely on their own, to see them alone again felt, well, it felt wrong. But that’s just me.
I also feel like Chuck went down too easily but that is not important right now😂
I mean, we even had a full blown episode where we were told that an ending where a brother died and the other lived was not a good ending. We had this episode where we were told that Castiel was the living embodiment of Free Will because he was the piece that Chuck never counted on, never took in consideration for the story. Castiel, our Castiel, was the only one who went truly, genuinely off script. And by doing so, he was the one who messed with Chuck’s plans.
And obviously I’m not taking away credit from Sam and Dean and their family. God, I loved watching this story grow.
And this show... this complicated, problematic, somehow still heart filled show, ended with a Heaven ending.
I dunno, I was just hoping that having peace didn’t mean having to die to get it. I was hoping that they wouldn’t be alone in the finale because alone? Sam and Dean are great. But with their family? Sam and Dean are unstoppable.
And I get it, anyone can die at any time, but it still felt wrong. That final episode felt wrong.
I’m not saying I’m right. I’m just sharing my journey with Supernatural.
It took me a month and a half to gain the strength to even watch an episode of Supernatural again without shaking and breaking down crying. It took me a week to get back to some sense of normal without crying and feeling like I’d been slapped in the face.
I can’t even listen to Carry On My Wayward Son anymore 😂
And it’s not okay. It’s not. And I’m not looking for validation or anything. I’m just feeling. And there’s nothing wrong with that.
I still am hurt by what happened. But I’m not gonna go lash out at the actors, or even at the writers. I’m mad at the tv network itself.
And it’s totally, completely okay if you enjoyed the finale. It is! I’m happy for you! You saw something I couldn’t and that’s okay! I’m not here to tell you you’re right or wrong for enjoying it. 💖
What is wrong is hopping on other people’s blogs and sending them hate and slurs and invalidating their feelings (like some certain anons and even people that felt too cozy doing that to me)
I’m gonna keep on trying to move on whether I like it or not. I’m gonna find a way to truly enjoy Supernatural again. I’m gonna keep on shipping and making my tumblr experience good for me, because I’m my number one priority and there’s nothing wrong with that. I’m gonna keep making friends and I’m gonna do my best to keep my blog a positive space.
I am warning y’all though: there is a difference between hate and criticism. Me criticizing an actor’s actions is very different from hating them. And let’s be honest, I’m not taking my little opinions outside to the real world. I’m not gonna go knocking on someone’s door yelling “I don’t like you” to their face 😂 that would be pathetic. And most importantly: nothing’s gonna happen to them because little old me went “that was wrong of you to do”.
I’m not that important, y’all 😂 I don’t have that sort of impact on people’s lives.
I’m gonna enjoy the SPN family because that’s the fandom I want to stay in. I’m gonna post love towards all my favorite characters and reblog the fics and art that you talented and amazing people put out on the world because they are awesome.
I’m gonna stay right here. And I’ll have my family with me.
The show ended on a sour note for me, but I’m done letting that... that event, keep dragging me down.
Disasters so far aside, I’m looking forward to the rest of 2021. I’m okay. I’m gonna be okay.
I wish you all the best. And holy crap if you got this far, you are an absolute champ.
Here, have a DeanCas hug in compensation for the long post
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Take care of yourself, take it one day at a time. I’m here if any of you want to talk. And I’m looking forward to posting more writing.
For now, I love you and I wish you a good night 💖💖💖💖💖💖
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ratingtheframe · 4 years
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Enola Holmes, The Devil All the Time and i’m thinking of ending things: Everything I watched in September.
Thank God we are almost at the end of the year. With October just around the corner and 2021 in full view, it seems like the film industry is slowly piecing themselves back together after months of being on a complete hiatus. Cinemas are slowly starting to return back to normal and streaming services are now full to capacity with content.
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Netflix in particular has some exciting things to come and the successful release of Harry Bradbeer’s Enola Holmes and Antonio Campos’ The Devil All the Time, has proven that their ability to produce outstanding content hasn’t been stunted at all by COVID-19. Here are the 31 titles I watched this month and for you to add to your watch list. 
Searching (2018) as seen on Netflix
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Searching recently came onto Netflix, however the film was actually first released in 2018, screening at Sundance Film Festival. It had a very impressive response and grossed $75 million worldwide and with a budget of only $880,000 it was certainly a success. I rate this film highly, due to the simplicity and execution of it, with a lot of twists and turns in appropriate places. Structurally, the film is flawless and it’s clear a lot of thought had gone into the payoff of the entirety of the film. Certainly an indie filmmaker's dream and a film to watch to learn about the “less is more” rule of screenwriting.
Score: 10/10
Zodiac (2007) as seen on Netflix
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I’ve been avoiding Zodiac on Netflix for a loooong time, and after watching it I wonder why I didn’t check it out sooner. David Fincher’s (Fight Club, Panic Room, the Social Network) thriller based on the case files of the “Zodiac Killer” stars the likes of Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey Junior and Jake Gyllenhaal, all of which had amazing on screen chemistry. The dialogue and structure is Aaron Sorkin-esque as you figuratively become one the detectives, unravelling the case as the two and a half hour film delves deeper and deeper. You honestly feel as if you become one of the team whilst watching Zodiac and just for that, it goes down as a praise worthy film with a perfect structure and surprising twist to the end. Zodiac is the thriller of thrillers.
Score: 11/10
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I See You (2019) as seen on Netflix
Now a film like I see you has me questioning
Netflix’s
choices a little. The film scores handsomely on
Rotten Tomatoes
, with a metric score of
78%,
which is quite high for a largely gimmicky film. I can’t quite fault the overall concept, however the story itself fell flat by the end. Things just seemed to mount too much to the point that it became overtly inauthentic and questionable. Instead of paying attention to the movie, I found myself picking up all the irregularities such as why a police man would suffocate someone, drive them to their own home and then shoot them in the head. Surely a policeman would just leave her in the woods? On a brighter note,
Judah Lewis’ (Babysitter: Killer Queen)
was quite praiseworthy in his performance, but it wasn’t enough to drag the film out of a hole of confusion.
Score: 2/10
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) as seen on Netflix
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If there is one film that you NEED to watch from this list, it would be Terry Gilliam’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. The crackhead energy in this film is OFF THE CHARTS as Johnny Depp and Benecio Del Toro play two drug addicts exploring Las Vegas. The production design in this is marvellous and really captures the psychedelic world the two men enter every time they’re high. I particularly enjoyed Depp’s narration throughout this; his voice is the most sensual yet hilarious thing to listen to for 2 hours straight. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is HILARIOUS and such a well rounded, off the wall film to watch.
Score: 12/10
I’m thinking of ending things (2020) as seen on Netflix 
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Even though I watched i’m thinking of ending things nearly a month ago, I’m still recovering from it. Charlie Kaufman (Adaptation, Being John Malkovich) directs this satisfying yet highly confusing tale based on the Iain Reid book with the same title. Despite it’s perplexing plot, I certainly can’t fault the film’s performances or set design. Jesse Plemons, Jess Buckley, Toni Colette and David Thwelis made a surprisingly good ensemble and the makeup in this film is probably the best I have ever seen. HOWEVER and this is a big however, the waywardness of the story can’t override the success of artistry behind the film. I feel like there’s becoming a trend where films are visually perfect but make zero sense. By sense I mean a clear, concise story, that has character journeys and some sort of resolution at the end, no matter how big or small. I’m thinking of ending things that had just about NONE of these elements, and that doesn’t make it a bad film at all. It’s certainly not a film I’ve seen before and perhaps it raises the questions whether films need to make complete sense in order for them to be good. We can take a look at experimental cinema to delve deeper into that theory, for within this type of cinema, films can still be appreciated even when they are confusing. Perhaps the meaning of i’m thinking of ending things, is more powerful and higher than the average movie goer can understand, but still appreciate.
score: 9/10
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Hacksaw Ridge (2016) as seen on Amazon Prime
Again, another film I’ve been avoiding for a loooong time and regret not watching sooner. The film stars Andrew Garfield as a devoted Christian who goes to war to serve his country, but refuses to carry a weapon yet lives to tell the tale. Preacher Desmond T. Doss saved the lives of between 50-100 men on Hacksaw Ridge during the Second World War. He was heavily commended for his service and the film itself earnt 6 Academy Award nominations. It’s a story that was born to be on screen and it’s hard to believe it was all true. Andrew Garfield’s performance was exemplary and he is definitely underrated as a truthful actor.
Score: 10/10
Fear (1996) as seen on Netflix 
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I am sucker for a thriller, good OR bad and this one from 1996 was surprisingly decent. Starring Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon in their early days, Fear follows a pair of young lovers whose strong relationship turns into a possessive one, when Witherspoon’s character, Nicole learns the true intentions of her boyfriend. It's a 90s teen flick that isn’t talked about enough and certainly an easy one to get sucked into as a guilty pleasure.
Score: 10/10
Make Up (2019) as seen at the BFI Southbank 
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Make Up first screened at the London Film Festival last year and was later released this year. I wanted to catch it at the festival and was glad it made it into cinemas. The eeriness of the british film directed by Claire Oakley, was a slow burnt, intriguing watch, however as artistically visual it was, a satisfying resolution to the film was missed. The payoff of the story was easy to define despite it’s ambiguity, however it wasn’t as hard hitting as it should’ve been, which is common in most indie features. The better ones expose ideas and truths in a punchy way, such as La Haine or Whiplash. The film’s genre was also undefinebale and although the story was interesting, I wouldn't be inclined to come back for more of it. 
Score: 7/10
Zoolander (2001) as seen on Netflix
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I’m not a huge comedy fan, however it’s about time I watched Zoolander, for it’s probably one of the most iconic films of the early 2000s. The film follows a model targeted by a fashion brand who wants him to kill the prime minister of Malaysia. Anyone who was anyone in the 00s is in this film, from Naomi Campbell to Lil’ Kim, Paris Hilton, Donald Trump, Lenny Kravitz, Natalie Porter and even David Bowie. How they managed to get these famous faces as well as the actual cast (Owen Wilson, Ben Stiller and Will Ferrell) onto this film is certainly a mastery at casting. As far as comedies go, Zoolander is iconic and a must watch for those who are thoroughly in love with these types of outlandish films. 
Score: 8/10
American Pie (2001) as seen on Netflix 
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This is the my first time seeing American Pie and for someone who hates comedies, it thoroughly made me laugh. I definitely had to look past at the amount of misogyny and questionable scenes in this film and just sit back and enjoy it all. I felt that all four leads (Jason Briggs, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Chris Klein and Eddie Kaye Thomas) were well casted as an ensemble and were really down to earth in their performances. They were authentic in being high school boys still figuring themselves out and in the end I found each one to be highly likeable. As a comedy, this is definitely a go to and an iconic film from the early 2000s. 
Score: 9/10
Clemency (2019) as seen on Amazon Prime 
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A Sundance Film Festival graduate, Clemency was a deeply moving and well shot film that exposed the shocking reality of prison inmates on death row in the US. The word clemency is essentially a term used to define an act of mercy by the justice system, who at the last minute of a prison’s life can grant “clemency” if they feel worthy of doing so, stopping them from being executed. Factors such as new evidence or a parole grant can influence this decision and this film shows the abrasiveness of such an idea. Imagine being a prisoner moments away from death and because of Clemency, you sit there thinking your life can still be saved. But as this film depicts, this isn’t always the case and the masterful acting of Alfre Woodard puts this grief into context beautifully. Her performance ignited this film and it was easy to see this story got to her on a deeper level, that went beyond serving a character. A seriously good film that is professional, dynamic and heart wrenching.
Score: 10/10
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Gladiator (2000) as seen on Netflix
I never saw myself as someone who would like Gladiator, however Ridley Scott’s Oscar winning film thoroughly surprised me in an unexpected way. Moving past the amazing visuals and outstanding production value of this film, the actual story itself was just so damn good. It had an excellent, Hollywood worthy structure that saw a hefty and clear journey of it’s lead, Maximus (Russell Crowe). I was VERY surprised to see Joaquin Phoenix play alongside Russell Crowe, who gave a great performance as a bratty roman emperor. Gladiator was nominated for 12 Academy Awards in 2001, which is unsurprising seeing as it's a pretty much flawless film, with the character’s fierce journey being the main contributor to this. 
Score: 11/10
American Pie 2 (2001) as seen on Netflix 
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Now sequels are known to be the downfall of some films, especially as the first films were okay on their own. However, I definitely enjoyed American Pie 2 as much as I enjoyed the first. The performances of all characters seemed to get better with time and it still remained outlandish and hilarious to watch. 
Score: 9/10
3096 days (2013) as seen on Netflix
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When you laugh more at a film than you should have, there’s something clearly wrong. This Netflix film based on the true story of the kidnapped Natascha Kampusch was directed by German-American director Sherry Hormann. This is gonna sound whack, but one of the most annoying things about this film was the lighting. It felt as if it was never truly dark in this film and because of that, it distracted from the fear of the situation young Natascha was in. Lighting plays an important role in thrillers and horror films, as the idea of these films is to keep people constantly on edge and the dark is something that does that perfectly. I felt safe when watching this film and although it’s meant to be a biopic, I don’t think it captured Natascha’s situation as best as it could have. Another thing that really let the film down was the dubbing from German to English. This is a pet peeve I have with films, but is understandable seeing as the majority of people are too lazy to follow foreign language subtitles and miss out on some of the best films ever made. Because of this, it forces foreign language films to cater towards an English speaking market so the film becomes more viable. I would’ve respected this film a lot more if it was completely in German and had English subtitles.
Score: 5/10
Cruel Intentions (1999) as seen on Netflix
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About a year ago, I saw the Glenn Close and John Malkovich film version of the french novel Dangerous Liaisons and I fell asleep. Maybe it was the film I had seen before it that had made me nod off or the fact I couldn’t understand what the hell was going on. However, Cruel Intentions follows the same story with younger leads; Sarah Michelle Geller, Ryan Phillipe and Reese Witherspoon and is set in the modern day. As you can probably tell by now, I am a sucker for a 90s teen movie and Cruel Intentions was all that and more, for the performances and story structure in this film were top notch. Ryan Phillipe is a much underrated actor and heartthrob, playing a jealous and callous Sebastian, the step brother of Sarah Michelle Geller’s character, Kathryn. Both of them were spiteful, abrasive and mean and I LOVED IT. Their non-fuckery was enviable as they cheat and turn the lives of others upside down. Reese Witherspoon was an angel in this film, and I thoroughly appreciated the strength of her character throughout. Cruel Intentions sits highly as a film from the 90s and boasts a hoard of young talent from that era.
Score: 10/10
Wildlife (2018) as seen on Netflix
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If you are in love with Paul Dano as much as I am, you’re gonna want to marry him after you find out that he’s also a director. His first feature Wildlife, stars Jake Gyllenhaal and Carey Mulligan as a couple battling the demons in their relationship whilst caring for their young son. I really really REALLY can’t wait to see what Paul Dano directs in the future based off this film. It’s everything I love about a good indie film; well shot, a perfect cast and a touching story. It truly is a beautiful film and one I would recommend to my indie lovers out there.
Score: 10/10
The Perks of Being A Wallflower (2012) as seen on Netflix
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My excuse for not having seen The Perks of Being A Wallflower is that I thought it would be yet another predictable high school blunder, with flat dialogue and basic character arcs. And I was half right in that. The first half of the film (mostly exposition) was filled with cringey dialogue and basic high school motifs that set up the film. Some moments were overtly far fetched and it took me a while to fall in love with the main character instead of feeling desperately sorry for him ALL THE TIME. Ezra Miller, Emma Watson and Logan Lerman all together as an ensemble was whack casting that just about worked. However, once we made it through the blizzard of exposition and got to the heart of the story, it truly was a touching and tear jerking movie to watch and for that, it scores highly. “We accept the love we think we deserve” was the ringing message of the film and certainly something I carry around with me daily as I reflect on the unfulling crushes I’ve had in the past.
Score: 9/10
The Devil All the Time (2020) as seen on Netflix
Probably my most favourite film on this list, The Devil All the Time is pure ART. I have a full review uploaded onto my tumblr account so please do check it out to see an in depth review of the Netflix film. All I will say is that it is a must watch film with an unreal cast and story.
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https://ratingtheframe.tumblr.com/post/629443058079055872/the-south-of-america-meets-gritty-gothic-horror
Score: 11/10
Way of the Gun (2000) as seen on Amazon Prime 
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Ryan Phillipe and Benicio del Toro star side by side in this action packed crime thriller about two guys who kidnap the wrong woman. Simple in it’s log line with the potentiality to be limitless in its telling; ie the basis of every good film. Juliette Lewis (the it girl of the 90s) also stars in the film and really compliments the performances of both leads. Any film that Juliette Lewis is in, is a good film and she is an actor with a very impressive portfolio of work under her belt.
Score: 9/10
Judy and Punch (2019) as seen on Netflix
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I’ve been waiting since the end of last year to see Judy and Punch and was thrilled to see it had been put onto Netflix. However, after watching it, that thrill deteriorated and what was left was a disheartened feeling towards this film. It’s a shame to say this, seeing as the story of Judy and Punch is so satiable and fulfilled in its possibilities of telling it. However, probably the biggest problem within this film was its pace; it was too quick of a film. The beginning was organic and smooth, but as it went on it started to become continuously rushed. There were characters I didn’t have time to get to know and actually didn’t even end up knowing their names. There’s a point in the film when Judy is welcomed into an isolated society outside of her home, most of which in that society were women. I would’ve liked to get to know them better and see how they influence Judy’s character and revenge on her husband. The film felt very rushed, which is a shame because everything else; acting, production and story were well aligned.
Score: 6/10
22nd July (2018) as seen on Netflix
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I remember the 22nd July 2011 as clear as day but for all the wrong reasons. On this day, 77 people in Norway were killed by a terror attack caused by a right wing, anti-immigrant supporter, Andres Brevik, who was a member of a radical organisation and spent nine years preparing his attack on Oslo and Utøya Island. The most shocking part of this massacre was what happened on Utøya Island, which was the main body of Netflix’s film 22nd July. Viljar Hanssen was a teenager attending a political youth camp on Utøya Island in the summer of 2011. Whilst on the island with his younger brother, a bomb went off in the centre of Oslo, outside a government building, killing 8 people. By the time news of the attack got to Utøya Island, its perpetrator had also arrived, and begun gunning down the kids on the island. 69 people were killed, most of which were under 18. Viljar Hanssen was shot five times, in the head, arm, legs and hand. The attack lost him an eye, several fingers and bullet fragments still remain in his brain. He also lost close friends and the ability to perform in many activities he used to do growing up. His ordeal and that of many on the island, is captured in 22nd July, that from beginning to end, approaches this story with sensitivity and facts. Out of the many events I have heard of that include a massacre of some kind, this attack always sticks out in my mind. The perpetrator was truly merciless in his rage against immigrants coming into Norway and he made sure to express that hatred in such a shocking and profound way. The entire story is one that is so hard to believe and is important in preventing future attacks of this kind.
Score: 11/10
Les Misérables (2019) as seen at Curzon Bloomsbury
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Les Misérables was nominated for Best Foreign Language film this year at the Oscars and despite it being thrilling and highly well made, I felt quite disappointed by it. The film was accurate in exposing the many communities now prevalent in France today and it was definitely one of those gritty, Cannes worthy films to sink your teeth into. It's not a bad film at all, it's just one I found hard to relate to and therefore I switched off whilst watching it. In fact, I think Portrait of a Lady on Fire was a better contender as Best Foreign Language film at the Oscars and I was left fuming when I found out it hadn’t been nominated in that category. Les Misérables is a film I’d recommend but found it hard to love it overall.
Score: 9/10
A Cure for Wellness (2016) as seen on Netflix
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The logline for Shutter Island (2010) is as follows: Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule, two US marshals, are sent to an asylum on a remote island in order to investigate the disappearance of a patient, where Teddy uncovers a shocking truth about the place. 
And the logline for A Cure for Wellness is as follows: Lockhart, an executive, is sent to a wellness spa in the Swiss Alps to retrieve his company's CEO. At the centre, he encounters strange activities that make him investigate the illness of the people.
Notice anything? They are literally the same film and it's not just the loglines that share an alikeness. On watching A Cure for Wellness, I noticed how similar it was to Shutter Island, from the location, to the colour grading, costumes and even lighting. Both films are almost identical and I pretty much hate both films anyway. I’ll admit, A Cure for Wellness has a better story and tells it better as well, but if it's just a rip off from Shutter Island, is it all that good? I appreciated the production value of this film yet it was hard to tear it away from Shutter Island’s own production. Overall, I found it quiet gimmicky and too close to Shutter Island for it to have much originality.
Score: 6/10
U want me 2 kill him? (2013) as seen on Netflix 
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The only thing that let this film down was the acting. There’s something about solely British productions that rub me the wrong way. Admittedly, their structure is always good and the story is well put together, however the artistic side of these films lacks in parts, from acting to set design. U want me 2 kill him? Is based on a true story which really alleviated the film. I thoroughly enjoyed delving into this story and it was an interesting, engaging plot. However, its production value and acting is what let it down.
Score: 7/10
After (2019) as seen on Netflix
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So in short, this wasn’t a good film. The twist was satisfying, however the rest of it was just plain annoying. Any film that uses reality tv type music in its montages pisses me off. It's just such a cringey way of showing emotion on screen and I’d much rather they use music with no lyrics or music that actually conveys the emotion of the scene. The relationship between the leads, Hardin and Tessa (Hero Fiennes-Tiffin and Josephine Langford) was very predictable and the conflict between the two only made up like 5% of the film; 2.5% at the beginning and a further 2.5% at the end. For the rest of the 95% of the film, they were pretty much happy throughout, meaning the story had nowhere to go, besides the fact that Tessa’s mom disapproves of Hardin. But besides that and a shocking revelation..that was about it. No one died, no one was really hurt. Hardin was made out to be more troubled than he actually was (his dad is chancellor of a college for fuck’s sake) and I found myself laughing when I shouldn’t be. As for After We Collided, I can’t wait to tear it apart this month.
Score: 4/10
Miss Juneteenth (2020) as seen at BFI Southbank
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Miss Juneteenth is the underdog movie of the month for me. You can read a full, in depth review of it right here:
https://ratingtheframe.tumblr.com/post/630357041253400576/she-my-dream-now-miss-juneteenth-review
Score: 11/10
Monsoon (2020) as seen at BFI Southbank 
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Why this film was praised by critics is unknown to me. The number one thing that this film did wrong was not showing ANY conflict on screen whatsoever, the characters merily TALKED about conflict. Conflict and actions based on those conflicts is what moves a story forward, and this film was certainly static. The story follows a man (Henry Golding) and his return to Vietnam as he learns about the war and the life he left behind. But the film shows no war, no deprivation or heartache that many vietnamese people had to go through. It's just filled with empty shots of Vietnam and Henry Golding looking out at the city. Why not just make a documentary about The Vietnam War with Henry Golding presenting it, as that is what this film was virtually. You can’t get away with nice looking shots to produce a praise worthy feature. Maybe I’m getting the wrong jist of the film, but in terms of its telling, I didn’t feel anything at all whilst watching it and if I didn’t feel anything, I wasn’t thinking about anything because it was so mundane.
Score: 5/10
The Riot Club (2014) as seen on Amazon Prime 
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I’ve had a strong soft spot for Sam Claflin since he played Finnick in The Hunger Games. My crush on him was further confirmed with The Riot Club a British Production based on Laura Wade’s theatre play Posh that shows the ongoings of Oxford’s Riot Club. The group of ten men are all self entitled posh twats who think their education and parent’s money allows them to act in a horrendous way, with their initiation ceremonies and club rules. Sam Claflin plays Ryan, a 1st year student at Oxford and one of the Riot Club’s newest members. Max Irons plays Miles, another new member of the club, who becomes the focal point of Ryan’s jealousy, causing him to do some unspeakable things in one night out of envy for Miles. The ten men in the film work brilliantly as an ensemble, which is unquestionable seeing as five of them went to Guildhall School of Music and Drama, three went to LAMDA, one studied drama at University and the last went to Bristol Old Vic. All the leads in this film are well trained and it's clear to see that in their performances. A really enjoyable, yet eye opening film that exposes the privilege of some living right in the UK, including Boris Johnson and David Cameron, who were former members of this heinous club.
Score: 10/10
Enola Holmes (2020) as seen on Netflix 
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Hmmm...there is a great deal of hype going around for this film and with a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Enola Holmes is well liked. This is understandable, seeing as Fleabag’s director Harry Bradbeer directed this film for Netflix and the cast includes the likes of Millie Bobbie Brown, Henry Cavill and Sam Claflin. I have never seen Millie Bobbie Brown in anything and yet I don’t think she’s doing anything special for me at this moment in time. As a viewer, I am 100% not into actors talking to the camera, a communication technique that I think should stay in theatre. I get this is a big part of Fleabag however I think Enola Holmes could have done without it. Another movie pet peeve is when the opening of a film explains what the film is about directly, something Enola Holmes did in an artistic, yet blatant way. Audiences aren’t dumb and will catch on with given clues, there’s no need to go through a character’s entire history in the opening of a film. For kids aged between 8 and 12, this film is great and Enola Holmes makes a great hero for many young girls. I don’t fall in this age bracket and therefore I enjoyed it a whole lot less.
Score: 6/10
American Murder: Family Next Door (2020) as seen on Netflix
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Netflix is known for producing some of the finest, most eye opening documentaries out there. Despite this one being quite simple using found footage, its impact is certainly something that grew organically throughout the documentary. You can read my full review of American Murder: Family Next Door here:
https://ratingtheframe.tumblr.com/post/630780350645354496/netflix-documentary-delves-into-the-murder-of-a
Score: 10/10
Peppermint (2018) as seen on Netflix
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I was thoroughly shocked to discover this film was made 2 years ago. You’d think we’re past a time of creating bad films that actually get released, but I guess we’re not. Peppermint was released in the same year as The Favourite, Blackkklansman and A Star is Born, three courageous films, all of which were showered with awards. Peppermint had two major problems; 1) it was boring and 2) the lead wasn’t orchestrated properly. The mexican drug cartel who murder the protagonist’s (Jennifer Garner) husband and child was almost insulting. Because it felt so inauthentic and gimmicky, I didn’t really understand why the drug cartel in the film was even mexican. Peppermint proves that a good story can turn bad in the wrong hands. The script was quite terrible and surrounding that was the nonsensical, half asked directing which saw Jennifer Garner get way too many injuries to still be alive in the end. The whole thing just had my eyes rolling, as nothing about it was original or provoking at all. In fact, the film didn’t even EXPLAIN how Garner’s character became a bloodthirsty vigilante. It merely showed us her training as a cage fighter. Das it. Nothing else in her character made her into this dominant and highly skilled fighter who takes down an ENTIRE DRUG CARTEL ONE HANDED. It, made, no, sense and sits a good example of how NOT to make a film. Also the only reason why it was called Peppermint was because of peppermint ice cream...yeah I don’t get it either.
Score: 2/10
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And that is September, which marks an entire year since I’ve been critiquing movies and in that time, I’ve watched well over 350 films. There’s a lot more to come though, for the London Film Festival commences in October and titles such as Dune and the No Time to Die await a winter release. Stay tuned!
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