#yesterday when I went to the post office to mail you something | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

paulsnichols · 7 months

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30th Birthday

It is Sunday, September 10th, 2023, which means that I have turned 30 years old. I have now been doing these annual birthday Tumblr posts for 10 years and this will probably be the last one. Ten years ago I regularly posted here on Tumblr as well as Twitter and not only do I not post much on either site anymore, I just feel like it's a nice place to end. I have documented what I was thinking about and roughly summarized what I did on my birthday every year of my twenties. I don't need to keep doing that into my thirties. Hopefully I'll have more going on in my life in the future and honestly this website might not even exist much longer.

Anyway, so yeah I'm 30 now. Pretty wild, but it was bound to happen eventually. When I was in high school I would say things like "I'm probably going to be bald by the time I'm 30" and it seemed like a reasonably long time in the future to believe that. Well, I've still got hair. Do I have a receding hairline and a slowly emerging bald spot on the top of my head? Absolutely. But I am by no definition bald and that's got to count for something, right? Obviously there's nothing wrong with being bald, I'm more just highlighting that my expectations in that regard did not become reality. Now that I think about it, I'm not really sure I had any particular expectations about what my life would be at this point when I was in high school. I don't know if I had any when I wrote that first post 10 years ago. It's useful for me to remember that because it can be very easy for me to get down on myself or feel like I should be in a different position in my life, especially when some of my peers or people I grew up with are starting families or having children. There's no rule that says I need to be doing that too and it's not like it was a goal anyway, so who cares? I have a full time job in a line of work that I don't hate (that's a big one), I live on my own and pay all my bills pretty comfortably (not guaranteed for many folks my age these days) and, most importantly, I think I just know myself way more than I did 10 years ago. I'd like to think that continues in the following decades.

So how did I spend my 30th birthday, you might ask? It really starts yesterday in my mind. Normal Saturday for the most part. I shirt I ordered came in the mail. I did some grocery shopping and the laundry. Later in the afternoon I went to my parent's house because I wanted my mom to edge up my neck and didn't think I'd be able to visit with them today on my birthday. I left from there and picked up something to eat and watched the 1973 film The Last Detail, which I enjoyed. I'd been meaning to rewatch Bo Burnham's special Inside for a while and finally watch the outtakes he put out last year and I did that afterwards. I felt like it was somewhat appropriate because he has that song about turning 30 in there and I remembered that my older brother actually watched that special for the first time on his 30th birthday 2 years ago not knowing that song was in there. Still an incredibly impressive piece of work, that special. After watching those it was already after midnight and, coincidentally, one of my favorite films of all time, Office Space, happened to be playing on HBO. It was about twenty minutes in, so I of course had to watch that for a while. Now this is kind of significant to me because I was born at 12:37 in the morning. I was curious what point in the movie would be playing at the actual time I turn 30 years old for real. The time comes and basically right on the dot is when the scene where Peter, Samir and Michael destroy the fax machine started. I have a print of that scene hanging in my apartment, so it was a pretty neat moment. Then I went to bed.

Woke up this morning around 9:30am, exercised and showered. Read some of the book I'm currently reading (Killers of the Flower Moon, which is excellent). I got the annual birthday text from my brother Kyle and when I told him about the Office Space moment, he noted that I might have actually been born at 12:35am, not 12:37am. He would have some idea because one of the weirdest facts about the both of us is that we have the exact same birth time. The days, months and years are obviously different, but I still think it's interesting. So the scene that was probably playing at 12:35am was when they put the virus on the office computers. Either way, I was watching Office Space when I officially turned 30. That shirt that arrived the previous day, by the way, is a De La Soul Stakes Is High shirt that I wanted to wear today, so I sent that through the laundry real quick. I was happy to wear that shirt today because I think turning 30 is a raising of the stakes in some regards. It's also just a cool shirt.

I had made plans to hang out with my friend Cooper a few days before, so I left to meet him at Pollo Campero to pick up some food and then head to his place. To Cooper and I, "hanging out" really just means we sit around and talk for multiple hours, which I enjoy very much. We often talk about our shared love for the podcast Doughboys and well as what's going on in our lives. It's nice to have a friend you can be open with and trust with your various thoughts and feelings, so talking with him always a pleasure. We went for ice cream at one point were eventually joined back at his place by his fiancee Emily. One of the things Cooper wanted to meet about was the possibility that I design some items for their wedding. The discussion was more of what I called a "pre-discussion" with a more serious one to happen sometime in the future. I left from there a little while after that before stopping partway back to return Cooper's wallet which he accidentally left in my car when we went for ice cream. I walked into my apartment right as Winning Time was starting on HBO, so I watched that and then uploaded some CDs that arrived in the mail to the computer as I typed this up.

In previous versions of this annual post I would include some of my ponderings about what birthdays mean to me and how I feel about celebrating it or to what extent I care about other people recognizing it. These days, I don't really care that much. I celebrate in whatever way I feel like and don't put that much thought into anything else. Seems like a reasonable place to end up by the time I reached 30.

I will say that I can't necessarily describe my twenties has having "flew by". 2013 seems like a pretty long time ago and A LOT has changed since then. What do I say about my twenties, then? Let's see: 20 - 23: I was in college, worked at a trampoline park, saw some concerts and stand-up shows, went to France, learned graphic design in school and got hired as one at my first "real" job. 24 - 26: Started working for real and struggled for a while figuring out how to live on my own for the first time, my last grandparent dies, get more comfortable at work, try to figure out how to have and maintain friendships as an adult, go to some more concerts and stand-up shows, start to really get an understanding of my tastes in things, pandemic starts. 27 - 30: These are the pandemic years. I think I actually gain some confidence in myself as a designer and get more comfortable in my job, I really reevaluate a lot of my beliefs because of COVID and gain a stronger understanding of my ideology and a more coherent analysis of the world, become a regular reader for the first time as an adult, gain a deeper interest and appreciation for film and, as things open up, make going to the movies a much more regular part of my life. There's some other stuff in there too, but this is already too long and nobody is reading this anyway. I was being serious about this probably being the last birthday post. Man, I hope so for your sake and mine. It is nice to write more long-form stuff again, though. Okay I really need to stop now before I get some ideas. I am glad I did this thing though. It might be nice to look back on someday. How long does Tumblr have, realistically? Is there someway to archive all your posts? Is this Tumblr customer service? Can I speak to a representative? This is me becoming old in real time.

29th Birthday

28th Birthday

27th Birthday

26th Birthday

25th Birthday

24th Birthday

23rd Birthday

22nd Birthday

21st Birthday

20th Birthday

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thingyperson · 8 months

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Declared : missing pt. 2

This chapter ended up being shorter than the 1st one.. srry guys

there r also gonna be more parts so stay tuned

Pairing : still none

Warnings : kidnapping

You slowly opened your eyes, not fully realizing where you are just yet. Though, you didn't have all that much time to process your surrounding as the sound that had woken you up rang again. Your phone's ringtone and buzzing repeated the taunting tune again as it threatened to fall off the side of the sink if you didn't grab it in time.

So, you pushed yourself off the tiled bathroom floor in a half-kneeling position, reaching for your phone to see what disturbed your peace.

It was 6:12AM and the one calling you was your mother. She knew you never got up this early, but she had called anyways. It wasn't like she was too busy to call you during the day or evening. She always called it motivation, always sugarcoating everything and pretending like there wasn't anything wrong with doing so.

You picked up anyways, feeling a bit too tired to be upset at her.

"Hi, mom.." Your voice was a bit raspy, having just woken up.

"Morning, sugar! How's your new home treating you so far? Met any new people yet?" Her voice rang out from the phone, carrying a slight accent that never really suited her. You knew the only reason she called was to check if you were still alive. This would probably be the last time she'll call this month.

"Yeah, it's been okay. Haven't really gone out yet.." You wanted to ask her to cut the small talk and ask why she's really calling, but you knew that the conversation wouldn't last that long anyways.

"Well,, that's good too I suppose. Are you gonna be over for Christmas?" Surprisingly she does just that, gets straight to the point.

You stay silent for a second, thinking about what to respond with. You knew she didn't want you there, nor did you want to be there yourself.

"No, sorry. I've already made plans with friends." You lied, not that she cared if you did or not. She was just asking for formalities anyways.

"That's too bad, now." She was always trying to be, or rather seem nice. She was too proud to admit how she treated you back then, not that you would tell anyone anyways..

"Well then, have a good one, Sunny." She takes your silence as a sign to talk, hanging up shortly after.

You take you phone away from you ear and look around, realizing you really fell asleep in the bathroom. Though, it was more like passed out than fell asleep.

Either way, you got up from the floor, taking your phone with you and walking out of the bathroom.

Even though it was too early for you to get up, you knew you couldn't fall asleep again. The bed would be too cold, too neat, raising so many problems that you'd just get up again anyways.

You moved to your kitchenette and took out a carton of eggs from the refrigerator. You figured that it would be better to eat something if you were gonna start your day this early.

Pouring some oil into the pan and cracking open a few eggs, you moved aside to let them cook for a bit and get them just how you like it.

Whilst the eggs were cooking, you went to your room and pulled out an Advil pill. Your head was throbbing, you probably hit your head against something when you blacked out yesterday.

Almost on cue, your landline rings again. You move out of your room and towards the kitchen counter where it sat, picking it up and putting it close to you ear.

"Hello?" You hesitate less this time, thinking it might be someone from your family again. Though, that was pretty unlikely since the only people that really talked to you were your parents and grandmother.

"Hello. You've got a package at the post office." The man spoke in a voice you didn't recognize, which wasn't exactly confusing since you moved in less than a week ago.

"Yeah, alright, thanks." Your package notices usually came in through your e-mail, but you weren't really sure if this is just a small town thing or if you should be suspicious.

Either way, the person on the other end hung up. You glanced at the clock, it read 6:45 now.

The post office starts working at 6:30, huh. That's a lot earlier than you were used to, but you thought it must be another small town thing.

After eating your breakfast, you changed into your 'outside' clothes and eating your breakfast. Glancing at the clock, which now showed 7:25, you grabbed your wallet and keys before making your way to your garage and into your car.

The weather was colder outside today, the thermometer in your car showed -10°F. While driving, you glance at your rearview mirror a few times, still feeling a bit uneasy.

You reached the grocery store shortly, opting to take the same route through the alleyway. You get out of your car, making sure to lock it and head down the alleyway.

The other side of the street was visible, the alley not being that long. The sun was still rising which made it look a bit more creepy than an alleyway usually would be. You had your headphones in again since the radio in your car was acting up for some reason.

You were walking down the alleyway, just like planned.

For a moment you swore you could hear something behind you, but you played it off as some ice cracking or something.

Suddenly you feel an arm wrap around you from behind, the person pressing a cold rag to you face. You yelp, trying to free yourself from their grasp, but to no avail, they're too strong

After a few seconds of squirming and holding your breath, you're forced to take a breath and it doesn't take a while for your senses to fail you and everything goes blank.

You slowly blink your eyes open. Your vision was blurry as you glanced around the room. It looked like a concrete basement, in front of you stood a rather tall man. He was wearing a yellowish beige hoodie, his face was covered by a black mask with a red frown drawn on it. You tried to move you hands, but they were tied behind your back with zip ties.

You were sat up on a chair. Your hands and legs were tied with zip ties and duct tape.

#creepypasta #creepypasta fandom #brian thomas #hoody #crpf #multiple chapters #multiple parts #slow build #no pairing for now

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axlaru · 1 year

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My mom occasionally likes to complain about me not helping enough around the house. Usually when I'm reluctant to unload the dishwasher tbh, but that's beside the point.

Next time she complains about me not doing enough I'll go ahead and remind her that today I loaned her my laptop for a meeting, went to the post office to mail cards for her, and went to the grocery store on a busy Friday just to buy some snapple iced tea for dad. After you know taking her to the post office yesterday and to scope out something for the organization she's part of and doing regular grocery shopping.

These are all reasonable things people do for each other, I just get frustrated when she accuses me of doing nothing when, especially lately, my dad literally does nothing but take the trash out once a week.

#i also do lots of little tiny things she doesn't notice but if i stopped they'd probably pile up #idk im not even mad today i just want to remember that i do stuff a lot #also like please just buy a new computer and or a new dishwasher because im tired of her putting off both of those

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parables-proverbs-pericopes · 1 year

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Social media has been around a lot longer than I sometimes acknowledge.

The “party line” comes to mind.

But this isn’t about that. It is more of a marveling at things.

I don’t even know where to start. Maybe I should start with Johnny Phillips and Donna Bourn Phillips. I knew of them long before I ever met them in person.

Social media.

But things sort of tagged other things and before you knew it there we were at weddings and funerals and worship services and concerts. I have followed their service to the homeless and their desire to share a love they share with each other and with…I will get to that later.

The stuff of life don’t you know.

So I noticed when Johnny wished Bob Schmucker happy birthday. Johnny’s greeting was “happy birthday to the best friend I’ve never met.”

I get it.

Somehow I came to be a fan of Bob. He raises lots of money for the food bank up there in Southwest Virginia. His suffers with people struggling in places like Haiti and Ukraine. He sings his heart out and makes sure others have a voice.

We’ve never met but…I will get to that later.

Yesterday I went to the Post Office to check the mail for The Gatherings. We are “decentralized” so no street address. It’s a pain but martyrs like me do it anyway. There was an envelope from Morgan Stanley. It was an IRA disbursement from a woman in another state. She heard of a clinic being built to light a little path in a dark place. That sort of lavish love is a witness (did you know the Greek word for witness is also the word for martyr?) from someone I’ve never met…I will get to that later.

It wasn’t an hour later that word came of another donation from a neighbor of a friend of mine. I know and love the one friend who sent the word but I’ve never met the donor…I will get to that later.

Yesterday morning I was on the phone with a fellow about my age. His wife is a hospice patient. He has spend a career in “the arts.” You know what that means in terms of financial security. He can’t get far from home now and has missed a bunch of gigs and off jobs. They are behind on a few bills. He was depressed and a bit embarrassed to tell me all of this.

I told him The Gatherings had already put a check in the mail.

He was amazed and flabbergasted and overcome and said “you don’t even know me”…I will get to that later.

You see, the thing is these unknown friends are like the many intimately known friends that power my life and give me hope. They, seen and unseen, are praying, loving, sharing, dancing, and connecting the dots to Life.

I want to share something with you.

My best Friend is someone I’ve never met. Spare me the theological dances and spiritual suggestions.

They will ruin it for me.

I just know that out there is Someone who can bring tears and wipe them away. There is Someone who can humble my vanities and lift me to glories. There is Someone who pitches a big tent but doesn’t insist that anyone occupy it.

He just holds open the door.

He is Someone I’ve never met but social media has been around a lot longer than I sometimes credit.

And I got a Friend request.

Love you children. Peace be with you.

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madi2112 · 2 years

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Caught by surprise

Yesterday was odd.

Well, odder then usual I should say.

I started the morning early hosting a "Once Upon a Time....is Now" tour at work and it went well.

I recieced a nice compliment from one of the participants towards the end of the tour.

She said I was an outstanding facilitator, a great speaker and guide and that everyone was loving the tour.

I was extremely flattered and a bit embarrassed by the praise.

I'm not used to receiving positive comments.

But that wasn't the only one I would recieve for the day.

I had to stop at the post office on the way home and mail off a birthday present to my friend Kinga in California.

I customized a framed picture of the sharks from Finding Nemo (Bruce, Anchor and Cum)

I hope it's not to weird for me to do that. I do consider us friends but she is a media figure and has hundreds of friends. She doesn't need stuff from me.

After mailing off the package I was craving a sweet treat and something to drink for the drive home.

Right next door to the Post Office was a small market and deli.

So I decided to run in and grab a snack.

When I'm at work I often get recognized as a Facilitator, trainer, tour guide and Disney University instructor.

I just don't expect it outside of work.

Certainly not at a small market in Celebration Florida.

But that's what happened.

The person who process my order said to me:

" You were the teacher for my training class!"

"I was? Which class were you in?"

"Bringing Magic to Life" he told me.

"Yes, that may have been me!"

"You were really good, I enjoyed the class. You were the best presenter of all the ones I had"

I blushed and thanked him profusely for the kind words.

I guess I have really found my niche.

Not only do I love facilitating classes. Being a presenter, a public speaker and an example of a visable transwoman, but I seem to be pretty good at it too.

I just have to find a way to do more of it and get better at it.

But I'm starting to feel more confident.

Hope the momentum can continue.

~Madison

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keywestlou · 2 years

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SANCTIONS BOTH AVOID AND LEAD TO WAR

SANCTIONS BOTH AVOID AND LEAD TO WAR - https://keywestlou.com/sanctions-both-avoid-and-lead-to-war-2/Originally Posted July 2017 Sanctions are constantly in the news. One country does something another country disagrees with and sanctions come into play. Bank accounts seized, shipping prohibited, etc. Cause the offending country to suffer for its wrongdoing. Sanctions are so prevalent these days that many have come to believe it is a way to avoid war. I believe such is the case only because a war has not yet occurred. History repeats itself. We tend to forget. On this day in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt seized all Japanese assets in the United States in retaliation for Japan’s occupation of French-Indo China. As was intended, the result hurt Japan deeply. Japan lost three quarters of its overseas trade and 88 percent of its imported oil. War was inevitable. Japan could not tolerate the sanctions. Especially the loss of 88 percent of its imported oil. Japan had no oil except that which it imported. Japan’s industrial death was imminent. Japan in effect said screw you to the U.S. The result Pearl Harbor a little more than four months later. Two strange occurrences yesterday. Three weeks ago, I filed a change of address with the Post Office. I am getting mail at my new address. Also, at my old address. Went to the downtown Post Office to straighten the mater out. I was told by the clerk it could not be happening. I calmly explained again it was. No way, I was told. It became a problem for the supervisor to deal with. No supervisor. He was somewhere else. I have to return today. Next stop was Walgreens. Bought a large container of Bayer Aspirin. Take a whole pill a day for my heart. When I got home and opened the bottle, the foil seal was broken and completely open. When I return to Walgreens today for an exchange, will I be told it could not happen? A change of pace podcast last night. Trump has been overwhelming my show as it has the media. There are other stories to be told. Decided to do a limited Trump comment and the rest of the show human events of the past few days world wide. Because of yesterday happenings, I ended up with three Trump/political observations. However, I did finish with 8 non Trump stories. I hope that those of you who listened to Tuesday Talk with Key West Lou enjoyed the change of pace. Being the political animal I am, I want to briefly share with you the three political observations. Jared Kushner’s testimony has been described by some in the examining rooms as truthful and forthcoming. I would not believe Kushner and his Trump in laws on a stack of Bibles. Liars one and all. It is the nature of the beast. The conclusion of the various investigations will substantiate they speak with forked tongues. The Democrats came out with a Better Deal slogan yesterday. Sucks! My recommendation is that they hire a professional PR firm to provide a today slogan. Also, it is time for Pelosi and Schumer to go. It is a new day. Their time has passed. Voters world wide have shown in recent elections the desire for new and more youthful faces. Finally, John McCain. A man I respect and admire. But yesterday he did not go far enough in his comments to the Senate. McCain has cancer of the brain. Operations, doctors, medicines, etc. His medical bills will be high. Overwhelming if no insurance. He has insurance, however. Ergo, he has a chance to be cured, to survive. What of the 32 million who will have no insurance if Obamacare is dumped? They will not have the chance to maybe have their lives saved. It was McCain’s moment. He should have said, I have changed my mind. I stand with those who do not want to repeal, or repeal and replace. Lets fix Obamacare and move on. He did not. Historical paths cross. William Faulkner lived a period of his life in Key West. As did Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway wrote To Have and To Hold. Faulkner went to Hollywood and wrote the screen script for To Have and To Hold. Both the novel and the movie were gigantic successes. Humphrey Bogart starred in the movie. In the early 1860’s, a U.S. Navy vessel captured a slave ship. It delivered the 1,432 Africans aboard to Key West. Two hundred ninety-four died while here. The remaining Africans were sent to Libya. The 294 who died were buried somewhere in Key West. No one certain as to the exact spot till several years ago. The bodies were discovered buried on portions of Higgs Beach and nearby. A plaque has been placed on the beach noting their burial place. Each year, a service is held at the site in their honor. Have to hustle. A heart test scheduled for 1. Enjoy your day!

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takeeachdayonebookatatime · 2 years

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Staring the cast of Castle

Why did you elbow me? Part 16. The serial killer.

Esposito: pov me and Ryan slept from 2 to 6am not much info had come in during the night. Kate and Castle went to nap for another hour. The surveillance cameras at the front of the building did not show our killer, he must have left out the back. We went to question some witnesses.

Alexis: pov dad got a box in the mail yesterday I noticed it when I came home. He said to bring it when I come into the precinct tomorrow. I arrived at the precinct at 7am. I went into Kate's office quietly and handed dad Kate's pills and the box. I then went down to the morgue to help Lanie out. My dad texted me saying he was going to get food and donuts with coffee for everyone. Kate said the police academy is sending some rookies to help with the case each officer will be assigned a rookie.

Kate: pov Castle said the thing he ordered finally arrived. It was the AmpStrip The sticker-like device that attaches to your chest, just over your rib cage to monitor your heart rate. Castle said my regular cardiologist agreed I should have one on just in case. Castle had me lay down on the sofa while I lifted up my shirt. He then proceeded to stick it just under my rib cage on my left side. Once it was all set up I took my pills and freshened up since I had just woken up from my nap and the rookies just arrived. I briefed them all on the case and what their jobs were. Checking traffic cameras, social media posts, looking at bank statements, properties that were recently sold and looking into realtors, where the victims were before they died. The food Castle had picked up was amazing. My rookie was a girl about 23 who was very chatty. The walls in my office were loaded with articles about how I miraculously survived being shot. She was very helpful.

Castle: pov Me and Kate took her to the crime scene to see if we could find any evidence. We searched the building for any evidence. Jenny found a dead phone hiding under a chair. Kate will charge it at the station. As we were leaving the building 2 guys were shaking hands and doing something shady. Kate shouted, police don't move, show me your hands.

Kate: pov The first guy ran, which I had Jenny chase. She caught him quickly. The second guy kicked my gun out of my hand then kicked me in the chest hard it knocked the wind out of me. I was breathing heavily but still managed to handcuff my guy. Jenny came over and saw I was breathing heavily. she asked if I was okay and I said yes, he just kicked me in the chest. Castle ran to my cruiser to get my inhaler from when I was sick. He helped me take 2 puffs from it. My chest was on fire from him kicking me. I did not want to scare Jenny but Castle said I should be honest with her, because you don't want her to hide stuff in the future as a police officer. Castle said I should check the new app on my phone which I did, it said my heart rate was elevated. Castle told Jenny as much as I would allow of the story while I caught my breath. He told Jenny a few years ago my former captain did some stuff that caused his death and while we were at his funeral, I was giving a speech and a sniper shot me in the chest. He told her during surgery I went into cardiac arrest and was lucky to survive. We took our 2 guys back to the station, for Ryan and Esposito to interview. Castle plugged in the phone to charge. I was still not feeling good. He had Jenny get me an ice pack, my breathing was returning to normal. We continued our search for the killer. If my heart rate did not go down in a bit I would have to take my emergency injectable medicine.

Ryan: pov turns out the 2 guys were buying drugs from each other they are both drug dealers. Just great, another dead end they also had alibis. I told Kate Conner was in the Er for an overdose and Pauly was in a holding cell. They both got out this morning.

Castle: pov The phone had a video on it, a very long one. I got us and Jenny some food while we watched the video. Kate reached into her desk drawer and pulled out her injector. She uncapped it and jabbed it in her thigh while pushing the button at the same time. We then continued to watch the video it looked like the murder and the murderer was on this film omg this was a huge break for Kate and the team. Ryan and Esposito were trying to I'd the guy. I got pizza for everyone since it was 4: 00. I suggested that Kate take a nap. While Kate took a nap me and Jenny re-watched the video looking for clues to I'd the guy. It had been 1 hours and Esposito and his rookie managed to I'd the guy. Ryan and his rookie found an address for the guy. I went to wake Kate up. That is when I heard the thump from her office. I ran in there to find her on the floor cradling her left arm. I told her we may have found the guy. I also told her I wanted Lanie to look at her arm before we went after this guy. I called Lanie and she came into Kate's office and looked at her arm. She said it looks like a fracture. It was swelling up. I grabbed an ice pack for Kate to ice her arm . She told Kat to get it looked at. Kate told her let me get this guy first. Lanie wrapped it up and told Kate to be careful and not to use her left arm. She also said to get it checked out later. Kate said she had a plan to catch this guy. I said Don't let her do this. It's too big of a risk! Kate said Since he does not know the video exists let's make it like Kirk is the killer and we are bad at our jobs. Everyone agreed to let Kate take the lead. Lanie did a great job wrapping Kate's arm. To be continued…..

#books #reader #read #reading #bookreviewer #betareader #fanfiction #castle #tvshow

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from-strangetown · 2 years

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hmm hasnt been a while nor has it been too soon so i think its just right to post again, as you know my name is ash i work as a library assistant at the big brick building downtown smack near the town square, on the corner of 4th and B street. we are open from all hours, due to having a collage in town and some kids just need the space to do homework, and who hasn't done an essay for most your grade the night before? and its in those nights that i work, and where this story takes place. i was working my normally 10 pm till 7 am. sometimes its longer but not that night, that was a blessing, so it started when i noticed that the lights every so often would flicker and that means one of two things, one the main power generator is going out and needs to be restarted. or it means that the building is haunted and i suspect it may be both but more the first one. so i paused my work and put aside the yellow papers and take a emergency flashlight and i walk through the empty library to the back generator. i noticed that the main silver generator the one thats hard to miss because it has a room to its self was actually missing. i paused to think if we even had one to begin with ... no we did i remember that my boss told me to kick it to work. like most things in the library they break and sometimes go missing but the whole ass generator? i sighed and closed the door making my way down to the boiler room saying hello to benny we chat for a bit while we have a break and for the next hour or less there was nothing wrong with the power. which was surprising we had no generator. i wrote a small note on white paper to recheck on the generator later but then tossed it away if it would come back it would. later around 2 am when benny went home and i was alone a visitor came in i was 2:05 i know because i was watching YouTube on my phone and looked up to see a very tall man in a bowler cap and tanned long trench coat standing above me at the desk holding a book out to me. i took it and pulled out my yellow paper and fountain pen and looked up to get his name but he was gone? and why did he have an umbrella we haven't had rain in 3 months its summer after all... i shrugged and opened the blank book, nothing on the cover and on the inside the story was told backward and each word was also backwards. the end was dne eht and wow it hurt my head to wrap around and so i closed it wrote a note on my white paper and walked the book to the bosses office slipping it in the mail box near his door. well what ever it was its not mine now. the nagging feeling, like something was tugging at your mind, like a slow drip of a faucet you forgot to turn off. i tapped my fingers and looked around the clock on the wall said 4:58 am and i was off shift in two hours why did i feel like i forgot something, my papers where done i put them away down in the archives. i had vacuumed the carpets in the library and mopped the wood floors and dusted the forbidden books. i walked the library cat the lives in the walls and i even fed the thing in the attic so why do i feel like i forgot something... i was pacing now walking though the different stacks of books with a sigh i sit back down and and stare at the blank white note papers. i reach into the note stack and grab my last five. 1. take the goat in meeting room 3 to the zoo i had done that yesterday and his new name is sammy evergreen he likes pets and small kids. 2. make sure to mop the salt water from the kids section i had done that yesterday near the end of my shift and it turns out a book was leaking so i put it in a bag. 3. bring the stack of red papers to the boss boss wasnt there so i stapled them and put them in his box 4. check the small boy in the bathroom oh no i forgot about the crying boy in the bathroom upstairs and in the bathroom near the space section. i walked up the stairs forgetting number five as i made my way quickly past the hole in the ceiling with stars falling down gently into the other hole in the floor... yeah the space section was currently under construction. i opened up the bathroom and saw the kid in a ball under the sink munching on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich from here it looked like raspberry with no seeds. so as i was about to say hello the boy rushed passed me and ran out into the library and thats what happed yesterday sometimes i see the boy out of the corner of my eye and between feeding the cat in the walls i leave sandwiches for him too. well anyway i have to go back to work now see you next time you come to the library - ash

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myhockeyworld87 · 3 years

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What Happens In Vegas...Doesn’t Always Stay There - Jacob Markstrom - Part 3

Word Count: 4,050

POV: Reader

Warning: Language

Notes: Well I’m finally at home for a night and I definitely owe you guys a story. So since I had the next part of this one ready, I dediced to post it. When last we saw these two, they had decided to divorce, and our reader had signed the papers and sent them back to Jacob. Who had forgotten to sign them. Let’s see what happens now, though I think some of you have an idea. As always feedback is welcome. Happy Reading!

What Happens In Vegas…Doesn’t Always Stay There Masterlist

It had been almost seven weeks since Jacob met you. For six of those, he’d talked to you every day, sometimes two and three times. It was just these last few days that you wouldn’t answer his calls or texts. Jacob was confused, to put it mildly. He wracked his brain trying to recall the last couple of conversations that you’d had, wondering if he’d said or did something to anger you, but nothing came to mind. In Jacob’s mind, he thought the two of you were actually starting something. Sure, it had been one of the most peculiar beginnings to a relationship ever, but the last several weeks' things had been nice, better than nice actually. He thought the two of you might have a chance at a real relationship. Of course, the distance between you played a part, but he thought the two of you could work that out; apparently, he was wrong.

Jacob knew the moment he stepped poolside, that you were something special. The longer he talked to you the more he knew he’d been right. If he was being honest, it was probably one of the reasons he suggested marrying you, even though that marriage would be over soon. Just like lightning striking in the middle of a storm, it hit Jacob then why you were pissed. He’d forgotten to sign the divorce papers. He’d had them for well over two weeks now. Rushing into the office, he started rifling through all the crap on his desk looking for the manila envelope that you’d mailed it to him in. He was just in the process of opening it when the front doorbell rang, so back on the desk it went, as he headed to the door to answer it.

Jacob was shocked to see you standing there. “(Y/N), what are you doing here?” He didn’t mean for that to come out the way it did. It took him a moment to recover before taking you in. There were dark circles under your eyes that made it look like you hadn’t slept in days, not to mention how puffy they looked as if you’d been crying. Jacob wanted nothing more than to take you in his arms and make whatever seemed to be causing you this much pain go away.

“Hey,” you mumbled out weakly. “Can I come in?”

“Of course.” He stepped aside, letting you into his home. It was your typical bachelor pad. Walls stark and devoid of any real character that you knew Jacob possessed. He led you over to the couch in the living room, an enormous piece of furniture designed for his large frame. It almost seemed to swallow you whole. “(Y/N) is everything ok?” There was concern in his eyes and you knew he was probably questioning your presence there after you’d been radio silent the last few days.

“No.” The one-word answer was hard to push out without tears falling down your eyes. You could see how Jacob’s fingers itched to touch you and honestly that’s all you wanted right now, for him to just take you in his arms and somehow have all the answers, but he had to know the problem first. You took a deep breath trying to steel yourself for what you needed to tell him. “Jacob, I don’t know how to tell you this.” At that moment Jacob grabbed your hands and engulfed them in his giving you his support in just that simple touch. It gave you enough courage to blurt out the last part. “I’m pregnant.”

You felt his hands slip a bit on yours at the shock of the news; his mouth working trying to form a sentence yet nothing coming out. It took a minute but he finally found his words. “Wow, um…ok…I hate to ask this…”

This was the part you knew was coming, expected it really and you didn’t blame him at all. So, to spare him, you found yourself answering the unspoken question. “It’s yours.” He nodded but you felt the need to explain more. “I haven’t been with anyone since Vegas, and even before that, well, work was really busy, and…well let’s just say it had been over a month or longer.”

“You don’t have to say anymore, (Y/N). I believe you.” His hands tightened on yours, the shock of everything starting to wear off. “Plus, we didn’t use protection.” It was something you didn’t give much thought to when you were with Jacob, which was odd because you’d always been extra cautious with hookups, but then everything with Jacob was different than anyone else. “Do you…do you know what you want to do?”

This time you couldn’t stop the tears from flowing. “I tried, Jacob. I really did.” He looked confused, unsure of what you meant by that. “I went to get an abortion yesterday.” He blinked hard but other than that showed no expression. “I was sitting there on the damn table in a gown just waiting for the doctor to come in and then I looked around. There was this damn chart that showed what the size of your baby is every week compared to fruit of all things. It’s a blueberry by the way. A damn cute little blueberry, like the kind they put in muffins and stuff.” Why it had to be an adorable little fruit like that you didn’t know. Why couldn’t it be honeydew? You hated that fruit. Well maybe not hate, but it wasn’t your favorite that’s for sure. “Anyhow, I was just staring at that poster and looking at each week and I don’t know. I couldn’t breathe.” Kind of like now, even telling him brought back all those feelings. “I started thinking about the doctor telling me that I could hear the heartbeat next week when she did the ultrasound, and I’m not sure what happened, but I couldn’t go through with it; so, I left. I’m so sorry.”

You weren’t quite sure if you were apologizing to him or yourself. This was something you didn’t want, at least not right now, or at least that’s what you always thought. Now, you didn’t know what you wanted anymore. You took a deep breath, composing yourself. “I booked a flight once I got home. I couldn’t tell you this over the phone or text. You deserved to hear it in person.”

“Thank you for that.”

You slipped your hands out of his, distancing yourself from him for this next part, but also pulling out the envelope you brought. “I’m going to keep the baby.” As if that part wasn’t obvious, but you somehow felt it needed to be said. “I had Aaron draw up some papers. They absolve you from any obligations to the child both financially and emotionally. All you have to do is sign them. You won’t even have to be listed on the birth certificate.” He took the envelope from your hands, glancing briefly at the contents inside. “I’m sure you’ll want to have your lawyer look it over.”

Jacob didn’t know what to think. Ten minutes ago, he was wondering if you were ever going to speak to him again and now you were telling him you were having his child. A child you apparently didn’t want him to be a part of. But did he even want a baby? He certainly hadn’t wanted a wife, yet here he was still married to you. He should come clean right now and tell you that he hadn’t signed the papers yet. That some indescribable feeling had taken over him, and he wasn’t entirely sure he wanted to sign them anymore. And now, well, now he felt like he shouldn’t sign them. Maybe this was all some force in the universe steering his life in a different direction; a route he hadn’t planned on taking until later, yet here he was on it. “And what if I don’t want to sign them?”

Well, that certainly wasn’t what you thought he’d say. You didn’t think this was something either of you wanted, but you couldn’t be certain. It wasn’t like the two of you had had this long talk about where you saw your life in five years. Hell, this wasn’t where you saw your life in five months, but here you were, on the verge of being divorced with a baby on the way. “Well, I guess we’ll need to figure things out then.”

Jacob got up and started to wander around the living room. You weren’t sure if he was trying to decide whether or not he wanted to sign the papers or how he was going to be part of his child’s life. “Do you want a drink or something? I need a drink. Oh shit, you can’t drink, can you?”

“It’s not advised, but please don’t let that stop you. Though if you have a water that would be great.” He headed towards the kitchen, which gave you a chance to just breathe. The hardest part was telling him, all the rest you’d figure out. He was back quicker than you expected, a bottle of water in each hand. He handed one over to you and sat back down beside you. “You know, you can think about this if you want. You don’t have to sign or not sign them right now.”

He nodded and pursued his lips before answering, though not how you expected. “How long are you here for?”

“A few days. There’s a movie being filmed not far from here. I offered to drop off some of the specs for the campaign, as long as I was here, but it also gives you some time to make a decision.”

“I already have. I want to be in our baby’s life.” You don’t know why but it felt like a thousand pounds had been lifted off your chest. It was nice to know that you weren’t in this alone. “But there’s a lot to figure out.”

“Yes, there is.”

“(Y/N), this is going to sound crazy, but I want you to move here.”

Pregnancy did weird things to the body and maybe your hearing things was one of them because you were pretty sure Jacob had just said he wanted you to move to Vancouver. “I’m sorry, you want me to move here, as in Vancouver?”

“Well, yeah but I want you to move in here, like in my house.”

He seemed dead serious and you weren’t sure how to take his suggestion or him at the moment. “But my life and my home are in LA. That’s where my job is.” Couldn’t he see that?

“I know, but moving here just makes sense. I’ll be able to help you then, not just after the baby is born but before as well. I have plenty of room in this house. There are three spare bedrooms; we can turn one into a nursery for the baby.”

How could go from finding out you were pregnant to a full out plan of attack in less than a half-hour? God, it took you a day to wrap your head around it when you found out and then another to make the decision about the abortion, and even then you still didn’t figure out you wanted to keep the baby until you were sitting in the doctor’s office. Jacob seemed to be processing everything much better than you were.

“I don’t know Jacob, just because we’re having this baby together doesn’t mean we have to live together.” Everything with Jacob was still in this weird transition phase like you went from being wildly attracted to each other, to being married, to getting a divorce, to now having a baby, and now he wanted you to live together under the same roof. You didn’t even know if the two of you would get along that great. Sure, the sex was amazing, well really better than amazing if that was even a thing, and you seemed to get along if your conversations over the last several weeks were any indication, but to live together; that could just be a whole other problem altogether.

“Look I know it’s a lot to ask and believe me if I could, I’d be willing to move to LA. It’s not like I can just ask to be traded there though. But I don’t want you to have to do this on your own.” It was awfully sweet of him to want to be there for you, and not just the baby. You’d just assumed that he’d want to see the baby on some weekends and maybe an extended time during the summer when he was off. “You don’t realize this yet, but there’s going to be a whole hockey family here for you. That’s just the way it is in this sport.” He grasped your hands then, the gesture one pleading in and of itself for you to see his side of things. “We can do this (Y/N), together.”

Together, it sounded so nice. You knew that if he had decided to sign the papers that being a single mom was going to be tough, but now knowing that he wanted to be there every step of the way eased some of the burden you felt. It was just hard to think about giving up the life you’d built for yourself in LA. You were already giving up so much as it was. “I get what you’re asking, I really do. I just…it’s a lot.” His thumb started to run back and forth across your knuckles, softly urging you to his side without him even knowing it. “Can I think about it?”

“Of course.”

“I mean we don’t have to decide everything tonight.”

“No, we don’t.” He smiled at you. The same one he gave you when you’d been in Vegas. It gave you butterflies in your stomach back then as it did now. “How are you feeling?”

“Pretty good, I get a little queasy now and then; mostly when I’m hungry. I’ve learned to carry crackers with me everywhere.”

“Well, I could make you something or we could order.” The fact that he even offered scored points in your book and was definitely a check on his side of the box for moving to Vancouver, and you were kind of hungry.

“I mean, I haven’t really eaten.” He gave you a disapproving stare and you felt the need to justify why you hadn’t. “I was too nervous before.”

“Well, then let’s get you something to eat.” Jacob led you out to the kitchen, where he took out some chicken along with some vegetables to stick in the oven. The two of you worked side by side getting dinner ready. You were midway chopping up some zucchini when Jacob brought the baby back up again. “You mentioned something about the heartbeat. Were you able to hear it?”

“I have to schedule an ultrasound when I get back but they said that I should be able to.”

“Mmm.” You weren’t exactly sure what that little hum meant. Was that a good hum, or a bad one? You stayed silent waiting for him to say more. “Do you think you could record it for me?”

Why did your heart just flutter when he asked that? Was it because he wanted to hear the baby or was it because you were realizing how much he would be missing when you went back to LA? “I will,” you finally told him, but then had an even better idea. “Though you know, I’m here for four more days. Maybe we could find a doctor that would be able to do it while I’m here.”

His face lit up, like a little boy on Christmas morning. “You would do that?”

“Yeah. If we can find a doctor to squeeze us in.”

“I’ll take care of it.” He pulled out his phone, you weren’t sure if he was searching for gynecologists or texting someone, either way, it was adorable how he just jumped in at the first mention of being a part of this whole pregnancy. Again, he was showing you just how nice it would be to share this with him. Ten minutes later he had an appointment all set for you in two days.

During dinner you talked about how you had found out you were pregnant, telling him the story of how Kennedy was the one to point out your nausea wasn’t normal and that you should take a pregnancy test. She was the only one that knew you were pregnant. You swore her to secrecy, hoping that she wouldn’t spill the beans this time like she had about a certain movie star. Surprisingly, he wanted to know everything, though there wasn’t too much to tell. By the time you got the mess cleaned up from dinner, you were starting to feel the weariness of the day.

“I think I’m going to head over to the hotel. I still need to check in. Hopefully, I’ll be able to sleep better tonight, now that you finally know.”

“Stay.” The word fell out of Jacob’s mouth in almost an authoritative manner, which belied the puppy dog look on his face. He cleared his throat and tried again. “I mean you could stay here if you wanted. Sort of like a tryout or something.”

“You mean trial run?” Leave it to his athletic side to call it a tryout. It made you laugh.

“Yeah. We could just take the next few days and see how we do together.” It wasn’t a bad idea. “You call and cancel the hotel and I’ll go grab your bag from the car.” He was halfway to the door before you actually agreed.

As Jacob went outside, he contemplated with himself as to where he should put your things. Did he just bring your luggage to his room or should he give you one of the spare rooms? Despite the fact you were carrying his child, his body still wanted you as much, if not more, than when you were in Vegas. He just wasn’t sure where you saw things going.

You were just hanging up the phone when he walked back into the house and unbeknownst to him, you were wondering the same thing. However, your head kept telling you that if the two of you were going to make this work, you needed to keep things out of the bedroom, at least for now. Jacob must have had the same thought as you, for when he came in, he said, “Here, I’ll show you where the spare bedroom is.” The room was spacious but again, it wasn’t that homey, and occurred to you that if you decided to live here, you’d definitely need to make some changes. “Did you maybe wanna watch a movie or something, or are you tired?”

You could see he was struggling in this unchartered territory as much as you were, and while you were exhausted; you still wanted to spend time with him, to see if moving to Vancouver was even an option. “I’d love to watch a movie. Do you mind if I change first?”

“No, not at all.” He fidgeted with the back of his neck a bit, before turning to leave. “I’ll meet you back downstairs.”

You really wanted to take a hot shower and crawl into bed, but instead, you opted for just washing up quickly and slipping on a pair of pajamas you’d brought. It was still warm in LA, though the nights were a bit cooler. All you brought to sleep in were a couple pairs of shorts and some comfy t-shirts, thinking that you’d be in a hotel room by yourself. Now, you were wishing that you’d thought about it a little more and packed something a little warmer, if not more modest. Why you cared, you weren’t sure, considering this man had seen you completely naked several times.

Jacob had changed into some sweats by the time you got downstairs. He had bottles of water for you both along with a pack of crackers laying on the coffee table, and you had to admit your heart melted a little bit when you saw that. “So, what kind of movies do you like? I remember you saying no horror.”

“We don’t have to watch a movie. I know the Bruins are playing tonight and that you play them tomorrow. Why don’t you just turn the game on?” He looked surprised that you knew his schedule, but you did a deep dive finding out as much information as you could once you found out you were pregnant. He was going to be the baby's father, even if he would've decided not to be in your child's life, though now that he decided he wanted to be, the information was even more useful.

“Are you sure?” You nodded giving him the go-ahead to watch his opponents’ play. “Speaking of that, would you be interested in going to the game? I mean I know someone who could get you a ticket on short notice?” He looked so adorable when he asked you couldn’t tell him no.

“I’d love to.” You’d watched very few hockey games live, though ever since Las Vegas, you’d been following the Canucks, well, more like Jacob. It would be fun to see him in action.

“Great, I can leave you a ticket or have Erik’s fiancé come and take you. You’ll love her.”

Jacob really wanted you to jump in with both feet, didn’t he? You weren’t quite sure if you were ready to meet all his friends and teammates, but you supposed that if you moved here this would be a part of your life. “If she wouldn’t mind that would be great.”

“I’ll text him now.”

“Jacob,” you stopped him, just by saying his name. “Can we keep the baby our secret for now? I know Kennedy knows and I don’t expect you to keep it to yourself, but I don’t want to broadcast it either. At least until we know what we’re doing.”

He took your hand in his, the gesture reassuring. “Yeah (Y/N), we can do that.”

It wasn’t long before your attire got the best of you and you found yourself tucking your feet underneath you on the couch trying to keep them warm. You thought that Jacob was fully absorbed in the game, but he caught the subtle movement. “Are you cold?”

“A little.”

He scooted your closer to him, his large frame wrapping around yours. You weren’t sure if it was his body heat or him just holding you, but it was definitely warmer in seconds, though Jacob still covered you with a throw blanket that was on the couch. “Better?”

“Much.” It wasn’t long before you found yourself dozing off. The stress of the day and travel wearing on you. Your head fell softly against his shoulder and you sighed in contentment.

Jacob felt your body relax against him and he savored the feel of it. He’d honestly missed this closeness to another person in a completely non-sexual way and having you in his arms just felt right. He should’ve been paying attention to the game, scouting out his opponents but instead all he could do was watch you, even before you fell asleep. His fingers were idly stroking your bare arm under the blanket, slowly inching their way down to your wrist. He didn’t realize they’d made their way to your midsection until they were there; just lightly caressing you, scared he would wake you, but he had to touch you there. He’d been dying to all night but been afraid to ask as if it was almost an invasion of your privacy even though you were carrying his child. His child. The thought both terrified him and thrilled him. Jacob always wanted kids; knew that someday he would have them. He just didn’t think it would be this soon. He always assumed that he’d start his family after hockey was over, but here he was with a wife and child on the way. It was something he hadn’t bargained for and never saw coming. Apparently, what happened in Vegas was a lot more than he gambled on.

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randomshyperson · 3 years

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Wanda Maximoff x Reader - Land of Thieves #ChapterTwo

Western/ Red Dead Redemption AU / Slow Burn / childhood best friends to lovers

AO3 (English)

Chapter warnings: explicit language, explicit violence.

Summary: When you were a child, you swore that no matter how high the reward in your head, she could always count on you. Life as an outlaw in the west is not easy, but you believe that train robberies are still easier than asking a pretty girl to dance. Land of Thieves, also know as your love story with Wanda Maximoff in the Wild West

Marks: @mionemymind

You wished you could sleep longer when you felt the first rays of sunlight invade your tent through the tarp, the light making you instinctively raise your hand against your face to avoid the glare. You grumbled, but forced yourself to get up. You didn't bother to put on your boots, or fasten your suspenders around your shoulders, letting them fall against your waist. You stretched, walking toward the fire with the intention of making some coffee.

- Good morning, kiddo. - You heard Steve greet you, and you just nodded to him, yawning. He walked toward you, pouring himself some of the coffee you had just brewed. - I have an assignment for you.

You took a sip of the coffee, frowning at the bitter taste. You walked over to the supply wagon, looking for some milk, while Steve waited for you at the campfire, which was only a few feet away.

- What do you need, Captain? - you asked as you poured some milk into your drink. Steve smiled at the nickname. Only the early members of the gang called him that, in reference to his former position as an army captain.

- We need to restock a few things. And we haven't picked up our mail in a few days. - He says to you, reaching into something in his left pocket. He raises his hand and offers you a few dollars. - I need you to buy the items on Pepper's list from the warehouse and go to the post office.

You signal him to put the money away, finishing your coffee.

- Don't worry, I will sell the panther skin I got yesterday. - You explain. - It's worth enough to buy the necessities, and if we need more, I still have some change left.

Steve smiled at you, grateful for your kindness in paying for the groceries. You exchanged one last glance with him before returning to your stall, looking for your clothes.

Suitably dressed, you decided to detour your way for a moment, thinking about something. You walked toward Wanda and Pietro's stall, your gaze slipping inside when you caught a glimpse of the redheaded girl's sleeping figure, the image racing your heart. You looked down uncomfortably, and thought about coming back later, but the next second Pietro stumbled out, smiling at you.

- Hey Y/N, good morning! - He greeted you while buttoning up his wool shirt.

- Good morning, gambler. - You greet him with a teasing tease that elicits a smile and a roll of the eyes from the boy. - You still haven't told me if you won anything at poker.

You followed Pietro toward the campfire, waving to Pepper as you passed the supply wagon, and she handed you the list with a grateful look as she hurried off in Peggy's company, you had no idea what they were doing. Pietro stretched as he grabbed a tangerine from a crate in the supply wagon and gave you a wicked smile.

- Of course I won at poker. - He announces and you laugh before giving him a suspicious look. - I don't understand why you doubt me; you're a great teacher.

- Of course. And that has nothing to do with you being a light-handed cheater, does it?

Pietro laughed at the insinuation, taking a bite of the fruit he was holding. You switched the weight of your feet, and he looked at you curiously.

- I wanted to ask you something. - You began, looking down at the floor. - Something about your sister.

He looks at you with a suspicious expression, but with an amused smile threatening to escape his lips. He gestures for you to ask. You hesitate for a second, then take a deep breath to gather your courage.

-Do you know if she's seeing anyone? - you ask, looking intently at Pietro. He frowns, and you hasten to add, "Romantically, I say. If there are suitors

Pietro finishes chewing the fruit slowly, increasing your anxiety considerably. And then he lets out a loud laugh.

- You've got to be kidding me. - he says between laughs. - You two are a total disaster, I can't believe it.

You looked at him with confusion and impatience, not understanding what it all meant. Was he laughing because Wanda had so many suitors that the question was ridiculous? Or maybe he was laughing at you, stupid enough to think that someone like Wanda would look at you.

Pietro dried the tears of laughter, panting breathlessly. Before he could clarify what he had said, you heard a familiar hiss. Steve caught your eye, gesturing to his watch, signaling you to hurry.

- You can tease me later. - You grumbled to Pietro before walking towards the camp exit. Your gaze lingered on Wanda's tent, you pushed the feeling of shame to the back of your mind.

Valentine was crowded today, you thought as you took a few steps to the side of the warehouse door allowing a lady to walk past you. You greeted the shopkeeper with a nod, pulling Pepper's list from your pocket as you ran your eyes along the shelves. You decided to hand the list to the shopkeeper, knowing that he would ensure that no items were missing with the intention of charging every cent.

- Do you have a cart? - asked the man, looking up at you from the list.

- Yes, it's parked across the street. - You informed him with your hands in your pockets.

- I'll sort it out and my boy will carry the items for you. - Said the man with a smile, you knew that kindness very well, and were not surprised when he added - A young woman can't carry that much weight alone.

With no intention of arguing, you just looked at him without smiling, which seemed to embarrass him slightly. The man made a noise in his throat, and went back to reading the list. You walked over to the newspaper section and were slightly distracted by the horse racing headlines, when you heard the shopkeeper's voice again.

- You're new to Valentine, right? - he asked, stooping to the counter to pick up a package, which you recognized as coffee. A red-haired, muscular boy entered the place through the back door, and began to carry in his arms some of the items the shopkeeper had put on the counter before leaving.

- Yes, I came from the South. - You simply say. Steve always taught not to give too much information to strangers.

- Not exactly much to do around here, if you ask me. - Said the man, you just grumbled in agreement, but he seemed willing to hold a conversation. You considered just walking out the door and waiting outside, but you didn't want to be rude. - Nothing happens in Valentine.

- That's fine, I appreciate the quiet. - You grumbled, but he didn't seem to pay any attention.

- We only have brutes in this town in my opinion. - The man continued his monologue, and you went back to looking at the magazines. - And when they're not brutes, they're weirdos. Even the town doctor hides out in your house, nobody knows what he's doing there.

Now you have some relevant information. You blinked intently, but the man seemed to be just complaining, and you understood that he wouldn't have any more information about this, and that it was worth your while to check with the local doctor. A few minutes passed, until the red-haired boy returned, waving to you and telling you that the wagon was loaded. You handed the shopkeeper a few dollars, and seeing the bruises on the red-haired boy's hands, you decided to give him a small tip.

You walked over to the wagon, stroking the horses before climbing on, guiding the vehicle toward the post office, which was at the other end of town. You would return to Valentine at another time to investigate the doctor.

When you arrived at the post office, you grabbed two apples from the crates behind the wagon, and handed them to each of the horses. Your boots got muddy when you climbed down, but you didn't care much.

-Hello, good morning! - greeted a man when you arrived at the booth. You smiled.

- Good morning. Do you have any mail for any of these people? - you asked, handing him a list of aliases created for the gang to receive orders. The man frowned, and took the paper and started looking through the shelves.

- You live in some kind of commune, do you? - He asked in an amused tone, given the number of names.

- Big family. - You grumbled in an almost ironic tone, and he didn't seem to notice, smiling in agreement.

After a moment, he had separated two package boxes and about five letters for you. You smiled in appreciation as he handed you the items.

-I couldn't find anything for "Carol Marvel" and "Natasha Black. - He announces as he hands you the list. You nod your head. It was common for Carol and Nat to have nothing to receive, both of them had no other family members, or friends that you knew of. And as for you, you didn't even put your name on the list anymore, the gang being the only people you had.

- All right, thank you very much. - You thanked them before you left. Stowing the packages in the cart, you kept the letters in your jacket pocket so they wouldn't get crushed.

You climbed into the vehicle again, whistling slowly as you rode back to camp. You stopped only when you heard a whistle that was not yours. Feeling a sharp pain in your shoulder, you turned your head to notice the arrow pierced through your left shoulder, and then the wagon was surrounded by about ten men, you guessed there were others within the forest around you.

Gritting your teeth in pain you stared at the man in front of the wagon.

- You're not from around here, stranger. - He began, stroking the horses that were quite agitated.

- What do you want? - you grumbled, feeling the sweat dripping down your face from the bleeding.

- Heartlands is O'Driscoll territory and we don't share it. - The man spoke in a warning tone. - Tell your leader that there is no room for another gang in the region.

- Fuck you. - You retorted through gritted teeth. The man let out a hoarse laugh, raising his gun at you.

- Or maybe I'll shoot you now and that will be warning enough.

You were so tired of all this shit. You couldn't even buy food without some asshole wanting to shoot you. Rolling your eyes, you raise your hands, thinking that Steve wouldn't be happy to see you die.

- I'll tell him. - You grumble. It takes him a moment to put the gun down, but when he does, he has a satisfied smile on his face.

- Yeah, yeah, be a good girl. - The man says, and signals to the others to let go of the horses' reins. He takes a few steps to the side, allowing the cart to move.

As you ride a few yards, you hear him shout in an ironic tone to wash the wound, and you just ignore the urge to shoot the fellow in the face.

Climbing down with difficulty from the wagon, you groan in pain as you feel the arrow still stuck against your flesh. You walk around the vehicle, unfastening the straps of the tarp that covered the cargo compartment. You groan again, feeling the wound throbbing a little. Looking around the camp, you look around for someone. When you notice the figure of Bucky a few feet away from you, you call out to him and wave for him to come closer. He smiles as he walks over to you, but his expression turns to concern as he notices the arrow in your shoulder.

- Girl, what is it? - He hurries worriedly raising his hands to touch it, you take a step towards peace, smiling helplessly.

- It's okay, I just need help unloading the wagon. - You say and Bucky looks at you with a mixture of concern and surprise, but nods frantically.

- Of course I'll help, now go treat that wound, for God's sake. - He says looking at you. You let out a breathless laugh before you leave.

Walking toward your hut, you grab some alcohol to clean the bruise, but before you can sit down, Pepper comes up to you with a worried look.

- Oh my god, Y/N, what happened? - She questions, and you mutter "ambush" but she's not paying attention. Pepper drags you into her own hut, while letting out exclamations of concern, complaining that you should have taken someone, and that you should be careful, and that the gang was in a dangerous place now, attracting the attention of several people in the camp who look at you with curiosity.

-It's okay, Potts, really. - You speak as you feel her push you down on the bed. She reaches over to grab a makeshift medical kit. You feel embarrassed by the attention, but still appreciate the care.

- Take a deep breath, okay? - She asks, and you know what's coming. Closing your eyes, you obey, feeling her break the arrow, the movement hurts nothing compared to feeling her push the rest of it away, seconds later. You groan in pain. - There, now I'll just clean it up.

You nod with tears in your eyes. Pepper smiles tenderly at you, and you look away from her to the rest of the camp, noticing that Steve and Peggy are walking toward you.

-What the hell happened? - Steve blurts out in a mixed tone of anger and concern, he would probably already be wanting to cause a war against whoever had attacked you.

- I made some friends. - You joked, but shut up with a mumble as you felt an intense burning sensation when Pepper poured the alcohol on your wound.

- Who did this to you? - Peggy asked, stepping closer as she watched Pepper clean the wound.

- They surrounded me a few meters from town, on that stretch of road covered with trees. - You explained, looking at Peggy. - About ten men, maybe more hiding. They said that this is O'Driscoll territory and that they won't share it.

Peggy and Steve exchanged a look, until Steve assumed a thoughtful pose, turning away.

- They could become a problem in the bank's job. - He says simply, and you frown.

- They are already a problem now. - rebuts Pepper, looking away from your wound. - If they attack our people in the streets!

- That was just an idle threat. - Steve retorted without looking at Pepper. You hated it when he assumed this posture of being the owner of the truth. - If they were going to kill someone they would have done it. Maybe they think that we want to take Heartlands from their domain, we just need to warn them that we have no interest and that we will only be here for a while.

- Steve, we can't risk everyone's safety. - Peggy said looking at the man, and he offered her a tender smile.

- I'll talk to them, Peggy. - He explained. - If they don't accept, then we will fight.

You let out a surprised exclamation.

- A gang war before a bank robbery? You've got to be kidding. - You retorted and felt the three of them stare at you. - And who do you intend to take to these two services? The last time I checked, half of the shooters were wounded.

-I don't understand your attitude. - scolded Steve, causing you to swallow dryly. - I'm trying to do what's best for the gang.

- How is putting us at risk the best thing for the gang?

Steve looked really shocked, and even hurt by your words. But he straightened his posture before he spoke.

- Treat your wound first and rest. We will talk after that.

And he left. Peggy gave you a tender look, as if to wish you to get better, before following Steve to his tent. Pepper patted your thigh as she finished dressing your shoulder. You sighed, looking at the ground.

- Y/N, get some rest, okay. - She said to you in a calm tone. - We are all nervous lately, and I know that you hate fighting with Steve as much as he hates fighting with you.

You shook your head in agreement, a sad smile on your lips.

- Thanks for the bandage, Potts. - You said softly, and she smiled, placing a tender kiss on your forehead. You smiled.

Leaving the tent, you walked around the camp toward the stream, feeling quite thirsty. It took three seconds for Pietro to surround you.

- I can't believe you got an arrow shot through you while buying coffee. - He announced in an amused tone, but his eyes showed his concern. You laughed softly, and continued walking toward the creek, being accompanied by him.

- You know how rival gangs are. They shoot first and ask questions later.

- I saw Steve coming out of the hut with a scowl on his face. Did you fight?

You groaned.

- Oh yes. I was being an unfair jerk and he was being a hardhead. - You grumbled, stooping down to drink some water.

- Damn it, I'm sorry. But you'll figure it out. It's not like Steve's going to be mad at you for very long.

- I hope so. - You say, sitting down at the edge of the stream, and enjoying some of the breeze. Pietro looks unnerved. - What's the matter with you, anyway? You're nervous.

He is silent for a moment, and then sits down next to you.

- Promise me you won't get angry?

The sentence makes you look at him suspiciously.

- What did you do?

He hesitates a moment, looking away from you to the stream as he drums his fingers on his knee.

- Look, I know you warned me to stop cheating, but it seemed so easy...

- Pietro... - You interrupted in a warning tone, looking at him with concern.

- Damn, I screwed up everything, okay? - He spoke in a tone of guilt and despair. - I thought that there were only peons with me at the table, but then one of them saw me stealing and the next second two brutes appeared and I almost got shot.

You blinked a few times, frowning. Feeling a slight headache coming on, you signaled for him to continue explaining.

- I don't know who they are, but they're staying in Limpany. - He said, looking back at you.

- You're an idiot. - You grumbled, looking back at the creek. - How many men did you say?

- I played with one of them, and there were two more as security. - He explained, you started planning. - I guess it's a small group, since they're all at the brothel.

You nodded, lifting your knees to rest your arms and head against them. You closed your eyes for a second.

- I imagine that you have no intention of paying off the bets. - You said in an ironic tone.

- Well, I don't have two thousand. - He replied in the same tone, and you let out a surprised exclamation.

- What the hell were you doing at a two thousand table? - you exclaimed, and Pietro shrugged, causing you to roll your eyes. - I told you to only play with what you can cover, idiot.

- And what's the fun in that? - He grinned back, and you grinned back at him, it was true after all. You took one last look at the stream, and sighed wearily.

- Five minutes. I had five minutes of peace. - You grumbled, and Pietro laughed.

- You're getting crankier every day, you know. - He teased, and you gave him the middle finger, which made him laugh. You both stood up, and Pietro pushed his shoulder lightly against yours several times on the way to the horses.

Limpany was so small, you were surprised they even considered it a town. It was in the middle of nowhere, in front of the same river that flowed into the camp. You guessed that the main income from that place came from the town's brothel, which was probably visited by the citizens of Valentine as well as Rhodes, and of course by the many travelers passing through.

You warned Pietro not to attract attention, and he rode silently beside you, following your lead. You left your horses at the entrance to town, and walked together toward the saloon, which was buzzing with the noise of music and voices.

But then the place fell silent the moment you stepped through the door. Even the pianist looked at you angrily. What the hell had Pietro done in this place, you thought. Two tall, stout men stepped out of the crowd, signaling to the bartender that all was well, and the music resumed. The brothel girls laughed again, and everyone focused on their drinks and games. You swallowed dryly as you watched the man approach, and Pietro took a step beside you.

- The little thief decided to show up. - Said the bigger man in an ironic tone - Do you have my money, boy?

- How about I bet the money back? - You suggest to the man and he looks you up and down, a mischievous smile on his face.

- Sweetie, you can pay me back another way. - He says, and Pietro gets angry enough to push him away. The two men are as quick as you are to draw their revolvers.

- Hey, Louis, please. No guns in the saloon. - says the bartender in a fearful tone, you imagine it took a lot of courage for him to give some kind of order around here. The taller man laughs lightly and then points his revolver at the bartender, who raises his trembling hands. Seeing the man's desperation, the man named Louis lets out a laugh and lowers his revolver, nudging his friend by the shoulders to do the same. You only holster your gun when he holsters his. - I'm just messing with you, Charles. - Mocks Louis, and then he turns to you.

Pietro continues with a defensive posture around you, and you almost laugh at the thought that it was him in the first place who will ask for your help. But any thoughts of amusement are quickly interrupted when the man suddenly punches Pietro in the face. You widen your eyes in surprise, and hold your friend back from advancing on the man again. You notice the worried and curious looks at you, and you also see two other angry looking men standing up, which suggests that they might be members of the group. You wouldn't stand a chance to fight them all off.

- I suggest you only come back here with my money. - The man grunts and turns to walk toward the bar.

You raise Pietro's face with both hands, noting the damage from the punch. His nose was bleeding but not broken. He looked irritated. You sighed, and gave him a short smile as you said softly.

- There are five men in total. Two at the bar, one on the stairs, and two more at the back. Can you see them?

- Yes. - mumbled Pietro, running his eyes around the saloon.

- Can you aim?

He nodded, and you patted him on the cheek before turning around. Taking a deep breath, you quickly drew your revolver, three shots echoed through the room, and were followed by two more. Screams echoed along with the sound of bodies falling to the ground. The vast majority of the people were too shocked to react, but many ran out of the saloon. You walked over to the body of the man who had punched Pietro.

- If we have any luck, it's just these. - You said checking to see if he had anything of value.

And then you heard shots outside, and someone shouted:

- The bastards are in the saloon!

- I think you spoke too soon. - joked Pietro, and you ran to use the door frame as cover.

At this point, the vast majority of the people ran out of the saloon through the back door, desperate with the commotion and afraid of being shot.

- Steve had said that bar fights were forbidden, right? - You joked, and Pietro laughed as he loaded his revolver. Someone shot at the door and you turned your face to the right.

- I think he just said that you were forbidden to fight. - Pietro replied in the same tone, putting his arm out to the side and firing twice. You started exchanging fire with the men outside, but it wasn't easy to aim correctly. - In fact, I am surprised.

- At what? - you asked as you finally hit someone. You hid your whole body against the doorframe to reload your revolver.

- You still haven't asked where Wanda is. - He teased, and you felt your cheeks heat up, but you laughed. He wasn't lying after all.

You managed to hit two more shots, but they were not accurate, and the men continued to fire, although with less precision. You let out an impatient grunt.

- You know, I think you should give up poker. - you commented, drawing a laugh from Pietro.

- And I think you should propose to my sister. - He hits back and you almost get shot, stumbling back in surprise. Pietro laughs but looks at you, worried that you've been shot. You assure him that you are fine with a nod.

- Don't say things like that to me in the middle of a gunfight, please.

Pietro laughs and then puts the body out, firing three more shots. The noises finally stop.

- Now that this is over, can we talk about it then? - He asked in a provocative tone, you blush and look at the floor as you walk him out of the saloon.

- You're very annoying, you know. - You grumble, and then you look around, but identify no one else wanting to shoot at you.

Quickly checking the bodies for anything of value, you feel Pietro tap you on the shoulder signaling you to get up, and when you look up you see the town sheriff walking towards you.

- Murder and pillaging is punishable by hanging. - He comments while holding a stick between his teeth. It doesn't sound like a threat.

- Not interfering with the shooting is punishable by what, officer? - Pietro retorts, and the man smiles slightly.

Ignoring the provocation, he walks toward the body of one of the men you have killed. He kicks the body slightly to the right, showing his face bloodied from the bullet in his forehead.

- See the scar? - He asks and Pietro nods in agreement, you just stare at the body intently. - These bastards are Lemonye's raiders. They took over the town weeks ago. - The sheriff looks around for a moment, observing the curious looks of the inhabitants who were hiding in the few establishments in Limpany. - We have no gunslingers around here, no one strong enough to stop domains like these. And well, the state has no interest in protecting a place that has no cattle, gold or oil.

- We are not gunslingers. - Pietro tried to lie, and the sheriff just let out a laugh.

- Of course. - He spoke in a slightly ironic tone. - Just good friends from the neighborhood. - And then he assumed a serious posture. - Anyway, I have to thank you for what you've done here.

- Why don't you make a deal with Valentine's sheriff? - you asked after a moment. Neither you nor Pietro felt exactly honored to have helped the town, killing was not exactly something you enjoyed doing, although it was almost always indispensable in the life you led. The sheriff let out a dry laugh at your statement.

- That man is too concerned about the married ladies of his town to help me. - He replied simply. - Don't worry about the bodies, I'll get the boys from the brothel to help me with it. I won't report you to the state either.

Pietro smiled but you just nodded, nudging his arm to let him follow you. You waved your hats lightly in farewell to the sheriff before you left.

You rode off in silence, and you told Pietro that you should ride in the opposite direction, because one should never ride straight back to camp after conflicts like these. He nodded, and you both rode in silence.

- Wanda went to Saint Denis.

Pietro's voice startled you. Blinking in confusion, you were very distracted and had to look at him to be sure that he had really said something. Noticing his insinuating smile, you confirmed that he had.

- I didn't ask. - You grumbled stubbornly, and Pietro chuckled.

You spent a moment in silence, before you gave in to the urge to know more.

- Not that I have any interest in that. - You started without looking at the man riding beside you. - But why did she go to Saint Denis?

- Work. - He answered, hiding a smile, and you squeezed your hammock slightly at the vague answer. And then Pietro let out a chuckle. - Didn't you just say you have no interest in knowing? - he teased, and you let out a lame laugh.

- Screw you, Pietro. - You mumbled, and you continued in silence for a moment.

- I really can't tell you. - He said after a while, and you frowned. - If you ask me, I think she went to buy you a present.

- What? - you exclaimed in a mixture of surprise and embarrassment. Pietro laughed at your expression.

- Have you forgotten that it's your birthday the day after tomorrow? - he teased. - I already bought your present too, by the way.

- You didn't have to buy anything. - You said, looking forward, your cheeks flushed. - But I'm sure I'll love it.

Pietro smiled, and you were silent. You really had a tendency to forget your birthday, and this was probably because it wasn't really your birthday. The date had been chosen by Steve, as the day he adopted you as part of the gang, but you had no idea if it was even close to your actual birth. You were too small to remember what day it really was, and besides, you didn't have any documents. So you just accepted the chosen date. And in outlaw life, it wasn't really your priority. Almost every year you forgot, and were always pleasantly surprised by the other gang members with cake and music. Unlike the twins' birthdays, where you always took time out of your day to do some activity with them, you didn't feel very comfortable with all the attention, so you always spent your birthdays inside the camp, helping out with chores like a normal day. You were lost in your own thoughts, when you heard Pietro whistle softly for you to stop, and you looked at him confused. He got off his horse, stretching his body.

- You're bleeding, miss. - he warned as if it were obvious. You blinked and then looked down at your shoulder, the cotton bandage completely red. - Come here, I'll clean it for you.

You dismounted the Horseman carefully, and now that the adrenaline had left your body, you felt your shoulder ache. Unbuttoning your shirt, you walked over to Pietro as you took it off. He gave you a playful look and whistled.

- Wanda is going to lose her mind on her wedding night. - he teased, and you felt your face heat up.

- Are you willing to get punched in the face again? - You retorted angrily and awkwardly.

He just laughed and made a motion with his hand to the water in the lake, making you wet. You let out an irritated grunt, feeling the cold liquid against your body.

- I'm really going to punch you, Pietro.

- Shush, stop being grumpy. Sit here. - He said, pointing to the rock beside the lake.

You sat down and he began to change the bandage in silence. You looked at him while you waited, and he made a few faces that made you laugh.

- There you go. - He announced after a while

- Thank you.

When you thanked him, he looked at you seriously, and you didn't get up.

- You won't hurt my sister, right? - he asked, looking straight at you. Feeling your heart race a little, you swallowed hard.

- I have no intention of doing that. - You confess sincerely, and Pietro shakes his head.

- I know we are like family, but I won't forgive you if you hurt Wanda. - Pietro says in the same tone, his gaze wavering between you and the lake beside you. You sigh

- I won't forgive myself if I hurt her either. - You confess with your head down, and Pietro puts a hand on your healthy shoulder.

- I think it will be fun to be your brother-in-law. - He jokes and you laugh, pushing him lightly. - I'm hungry, can we stop at a saloon before we head back to the camp?

- Sure, Pietro. - You say, getting up. - Rhodes is closer, and they have great rooms. We can spend the night.

- Any chance we could play poker? - He jokes, and you tell him to shut up, nudging him with your shoulder as he lets out a laugh.

When you finally get back to the camp, it is almost lunchtime for the next day. Pietro sleeps a lot when he drinks, and you saw him with a bottle of beer being escorted by a pretty girl toward his room in the Saloon in Rhodes, both of them stumbling slightly while you laughed and played with your set of cards. Then it took a while for you both to leave town for the camp.

You nodded to him as you walked toward your own tent, while you unbuckled your belt and holster to throw them on the bed. You were changing into more comfortable clothes when you heard someone calling you.

- Can we talk, kid? - Steve's deep voice came into your tent. You looked away, closing the trunk of clothes on the floor of your bed.

-Sure, Steve. - You said and followed him toward the camp trail, and you walked side by side in silence for a few minutes.

- Do you think I'm putting everyone in danger? - he asked after a while, his tone slightly concerned.

You felt your cheeks heat with guilt.

- I'm sorry I said that. - You mumbled. - It wasn't fair.

- We don't apologize for telling the truth. - He retorted, making you smile.

- The truth is that we all chose this outlaw life, Steve. - You said, stopping walking to look at him. - I guess I was just trying to pin my frustration on someone. Things have been going wrong ever since we left Armadillo.

Steve lets out a sigh.

- Yes, I had that feeling too. - He confesses, looking away to his surroundings. - But I'm optimistic about everything. We've been through worse, right? We just need to get back to our normal rhythm.

- I think so. - You grumble. - Things will get better when we're all here.

- Oh, sure. - Steve seems to remember something and you look at him curiously. - Maria and Monica came back yesterday while you were away. They must be packing up.

You felt a wave of excitement rush through your body, but then you took on an almost disappointed expression, and Steve added:

- Natasha will show up soon, don't overthink it. - He tried to reassure you, and you looked down at the floor.

- It's been two weeks since she left for Tumbleweed. - You grumbled, and Steve laughed lightly.

- Which happens to be on the other side of the country. - He pointed in a playful tone. - Nat will still have to decipher Peggy's letter to find us. And the trip from Tumbleweed to the Heartlands is not a short one. Relax a bit.

You shrugged, knowing he was right. Steve came over and ruffled your hair after a while, laughing tenderly and earning a grumble from you.

- How's your shoulder? - he asked, watching you try to fix your own hair with a grimace.

- Sore. - you said, and he nodded.

- Do you think you'll be able to shoot it during the robbery?

You chose not to mention that you had been involved in a shooting less than twenty hours ago, so you just nodded. Steve smiled and looked straight ahead. You followed his gaze, feeling your heart race a little as you saw Wanda, at the moment laughing as she helped Bucky carry some wood and he made faces as if he was trying too hard to lift the weight.

- You'll be eighteen tomorrow, won't you? - Steve asked in a gentle tone, and you agreed softly, without looking away from Wanda. - At that age, it is common for young women to be courted.

You almost choked at the insinuation, and turned your head very quickly to the side, watching Steve stare ahead, a playful smile threatening to escape.

- What are you talking about now? - You asked awkwardly, and he let out a little laugh.

- I'm just trying to say that it's perfectly normal at this age...

- God, I'm not talking about this with you. - You grumbled, your cheeks flushed, making him laugh. You looked forward, staring at your feet.

- Now, don't be so grumpy. - He teased, If we were like those families in the city, I'd have married you to some magnate about five years ago.

You let out an indignant sigh.

- If my father had tried to marry me off by force, I would have fled the country. - You started - And then I would have ended up as an outlaw, just like now.

Steve laughed, and you looked around again.

- I'm only saying that because you and Pietro have been riding together a lot. - And ignoring the look of absolute horror on your face, Steve continued. - And he's a decent guy, he'd be a good choice.

- I have to admit that it is brave of you to assume that I would marry any of the guys we met. - You countered, and Steve laughed heartily. - Although Pietro is a good man, we are just friends. I've never seen him like this.

- If none of the guys catch your eye, what about the girls? - Steve asks and you feel your stomach sink with nervousness, he continues talking however, not expecting your answer. - I know you're missing Natasha terribly.

My dear God. - You grumble with reddened cheeks, bringing your hand to your face to cover it in embarrassment. You laugh nervously. - You really do get everything wrong. - You say, staring at him after a moment, you decide to tease him. - Not everyone is in love with their best friends, you know?

Steve chokes in surprise, but laughs at your teasing. He looks away, and replies:

- I know, I know, especially since Wanda isn't your best friend, is she?

You blush profusely, and mumble something like "mind your own business" before leaving in a huff. Steve laughs as he walks with you, and you walk back to your tent and he says goodbye, ruffling your hair again, making you let out a dissatisfied exclamation.

Back in your tent, you try to fix your hair as you look in the half-broken mirror that hangs from one of the canvas's timbers, and you blush when you see Wanda through the reflection standing at the entrance to your room.

- Hi. - She greeted you with a smile, and you turned around, feeling warm, and smiled back.

- Hi Wanda. - Trying to hide your complete lack of posture, you kept your hands in your pockets, pressing your fingers against the fabric. - I haven't seen you for a while, everything okay?

- I should be the one asking you that. - She comments, stepping closer. You hold your breath when you feel her inches from your face. She shifts her gaze from yours to your shoulder, pulling your shirt aside to see the bandage. - Does it still hurt?

You ignore the uneven beating of your heart as you deny it with your head. She smiles at you, without turning away.

- Knowing you and Pietro, I'm sure he's already told you what I went to Saint Denis for. - She comments with a slight smile, and you think she is going to pull away, but she brings her face closer to your ear. You feel something in your stomach clench as you hear her whisper, her breath tickling your skin. - I went to get your present.

Holy fucking God, you think, closing your eyes for a moment. Your body becomes hypersensitive to Wanda, but she pulls away in the next moment. Her cheeks are slightly reddened, but she has a falsely innocent look on her face that makes you realize she knows exactly the effect she has on you.

- You're not going to tell me what it is, are you? - you ask, relaxing your body slightly, which attracts the attention of Wanda, who looks at you with her pupils slightly dilated. - Not even a hint?

You joke in a playful tone, pouting, and watch Wanda look down at your mouth. She smiles and grabs your belt and holster from the bed, only to approach you again, causing you to lose all relaxed posture. Without saying anything, she lifts the belt, and to slip it behind your back she comes even closer, her breasts bouncing against yours, making you hold your breath. She closes the belt in front of you and gives you a mischievous smile.

- That's your cue. - She whispers, and you can't think of anything with her so close.

-R-right. - You say breathlessly, Wanda bites her lips, a smile threatening to escape. She gives you one last look before turning away. You let out a breath you hadn't even realized you were holding.

- Let's get some lunch before Bucky comes to grab us by the hair. - She says in a playful tone, pulling you by the hand out of the tent.

- I want to hear about what you found along the road, Wands. - You told her, honestly, you just wanted to hear her talk to you, even if it was to say that she had ridden in silence for twelve hours. Wanda smiled in agreement with a nod of her head. She only let go of your hand when she needed to grab the quilt from the soaking, and you tried not to miss the feeling so much.

#wanda maximoff x reader #marvel reader insert #western au #wanda maximoff #wanda x reader #marvel imagines #red dead redemption au #Land of Thieves #wandaxreader

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writings-of-a-hufflepuff · 4 years

Text

Prompt List #8 - Lines from love letters

All Prompt Lists

All these lines come from a book called ‘The Love of an Unknown Soldier’ which is an antique book that’s essentially a series of love letters from the Great War that were found in a dugout and published. All unsent from a British Officer to an American Nurse he met in Paris. He never told her that he loved her and presumably died before he had the chance.

I was so many times on the point of telling you - every evening after I had left you I accused myself and spent half the night awake planning the words in which I would confess when next we met.

I wonder if you have guessed. Surely I could not have loved you so much without your knowing.

What right have I, who may be dead within a month, to speak to you of love? To have done so would have been the act of a coward.

You, all the time you would have been lonely. All the time you would have been worrying about my safety.

And yet there is still time to tell you. I have only to unhook the receiver and to telephone to you.

Perhaps it was fate; I prefer to think that it was something else.

You’d never guess how long I spent in polishing my belt and buttons. Yes, men are like that.

And my emotions! Shall I be frank? They were awfully muddled. They were made up of longing, hope, doubt and the terror that I might appear absurd.

The longing was all for you.

The hope was that you might share my longing.

The doubt was lest I might have idealised a memory which, when I saw you, would fade into reality. Oh, the heresy of me!

I have spoken of the touch of your hand, but I think it was the sympathy in your eyes that touched me.

I suppose you’ll never know how proud I was to be seen beside you.

I felt so keenly aware of you; your beauty was almost painful.

The paths were slippery; I took your arm at times to help you over places and laughed within myself at its reluctance.

She does care for me a little, I told myself - that thought kept my heart singing after we had parted.

One never hears you coming; you are absent - one looks again and you are there.

You trusted me so much from the very first; is that a good sign from a lover?

Strange, that I should have conquered fear in the front-line, should have lived for days quite calmly with sudden death, and yet should tremble before a girl.

The letter I shall send you will be strictly conventional and not too lengthy - it will be the kind that I might write to any acquaintance of either sex. And yet - yes, that is the thought that troubles me - we may have met and parted for the very last time.

Since you will never read this, I will play a game; I will not send you what I write, but I will speak the truth to you on paper.

I can at least carry the memory of these things back; they are unspoilt by any sadder knowledge.

We stopped so long talking over dinner that by the time we reached the opera the first scene was ended.

I am glad I met you. I am glad of the pain I shall carry back with me.

Your face will be with me, the sound of your voice and the memory of your gentleness.

I shall be a better soldier because we have met.

If I die, I shall die satisfied.

I didn’t have much time to catch my train, but managed to stop long enough to order you some flowers. They were roses, deep red, the colours of the ones you wore at the opera on our last night. I bought far too many for good taste - I bought the way I felt.

How far away you seem - how far everything seems that I have loved.

You’re a captain in rank, aren’t you? Then you’re my superior, for I’m only a subaltern.

There must be more in you than I have guessed; to have left luxury and come into danger just to look after other people’s babies, that took courage.

There’s a sacredness of devotion, which goes deeper than mere beauty.

Do you begin to understand why it is that you seem so far away?

You can weave all kinds of fancies out of our nights if you’re in love and have an imagination. Those white flares, appearing, racing, vanishing, seem to me a phantom-city and make me think of Paris.

The boys came in intending to buy something; they hardly noticed you at first. Then they saw you, stared and tried to spin out an awkward conversation...they’d returned to buy something else. They really returned to get another sight of you.

You fascinated me as well.

What are you? You are drifting away from me, becoming unreal already.

Did you care for me at all, even for a moment?

Did you ever picture the life to which I was going?

Was I only an incident - some one transiently amusing, and perhaps a little pleasant?

For me there was always poignancy in our happiness. The thought was constantly with me of our parting. Something within me kept warning, ‘it is the end - the end - the end.’/

If I had only met you earlier, in the days before war started, I could have made love to you honourably. But not now.

And yet - “I wish I had married my man,” your friend said. It’s a problem. Self-interest dictates that I should tell you. That choice might be more righteous than silence; it depends on you. But because the choice would be selfish I distrust it.

Had you stayed a moment longer I might have spoken the words which were better left unsaid. I think you knew that.

At the cry ‘mail up’ I forsook my dignity and went out on the pretence of seeing that the teams were clear of the position.

For a little while memories travelled back to affections and quiet.

You mean more to me than anyone in the world, yet I have never seen your handwriting. That brings home to me vividly how much we are strangers.

I never knew a man more in love with anybody.

Why didn’t you write to me? I had counted the days and made allowances for delays. A letter might have come yesterday; to-night it seemed certain.

I form so many conjectures...you were busy. You did write, but forgot to post it. You posted it, and it’s held up in transit. Then there are other conjectures of another kind: that you do not care; that the knowledge that I care would come to you as a surprise; that it is the knowledge that I care that keeps you from writing.

When I remember you like that I feel your kindness. You may not care, but you are not careless.

To have known you as I have is more than I had counted on - more than I deserved.

To have had love come to one in the midst of a war, was more than could have been expected.

All my life I had waited for that; then, when one had sacrificed so many human affections, it happened. It was a gift from the gods. Though you may never know, I ought to be contented.

I must not entertain hopes about you. To do so would be weakening.

You have happened in my life - that should be sufficient. To have snatched one last glimpse of loyalty should make me braver; it should be like the sacrament pressed against the lips of those about to die.

I don’t think I will write to you any more, my dear. These unposted letters, written out of loneliness are becoming a luxury which is dangerous. They make the future seem too valuable.

I begin to realise how sweet life is - how glorious we could make it.

A letter from you! Such a jolly letter, so full of yourself! It’s just as though you were at my elbow and I could hear your voice.

I’ve read it how many times? I can’t count. I think I know it all by heart, and yet keep on turning back to my favourite passages.

To save France, Joan of Arc charged on horseback into battle. You go with less drama, but with an equal heroism.

You would laugh quietly and say that I make too much of what you are doing - that it’s really very ordinary.

You can’t love a woman and not gaze into the future. You can’t feel the need of her and be resigned to die.

I wish I knew that you felt the need of me. In the loneliness of this existence the knowledge that there is one woman who cares supremely helps.

I mustn’t think of you too often.

But this is foolishness - one can’t get rid of memory. Since I can’t forget you, I must make your memory a help.

I write you letters which you will never receive, recording the fact that I love you; but I fail to tell you.

I persuade myself, as Benham would have persuaded himself, that it is honest and fine not to confess.

I don’t do the passionately human thing - the thing that Jack Holt did when he won his wife. I act idealistically but, God knows, i’m by no means certain of my motives.

It’s easy to be brave for one’s self, but to have known that you were in danger would have been intolerable.

Could I see you I should find you changed, you say; the sleepless nights have done their work. I expect I should find you changed - as metal is tried in the furnace.

Like every man who loves a woman, the desire of my heart was to shut you up in a cage of unreality.

I beg you to take especial care of yourself. Don’t run more risks than you can help.

My mind is full of you to-day. I have been trying to remember your face, the tones of your voice - all the things that make you you so essentially.

At first, when I feel in love with you, I almost resented your intrusion

I used to mistrust love as a kind of sickness, and yet all the while - I must tell the truth - I longed for it desperately. Love always avoided me.

I wanted to have something so worth giving to a woman: perhaps that was why I was willing to delay.

Then a quaint little picture forms in my brain of you and me alone in a darkened room. There’s a fire burning. You’re sitting in a great armchair; i’m crouched on the floor beside you, my head against your knees.

But one grows weary of being strong; one wants to be loved so badly, just once while there is time.

It’s the feel of you I need, the protection, the security - the sure knowledge that I am yours, whatever happens.

It’s you that I want - the feel of your hands touching mine in the darkness and your arms about me.

I’m afraid i’ve been acting like the traditional Englishman; you’re the greatest pleasure I have and i’ve been taking you sadly. It isn’t much of a compliment to you and I must stop it. Unhappiness is a form of disloyalty.

You came upon me so suddenly; you awakened such longings; your very presence spoke so loudly of a future which, perhaps, I may not share; you offered all that I had once hoped for before I put hope behind me.

Your presence to me was like St. Peter’s shadow to those sick men; it healed me, but it made me long for more than the shadow. The thought that you would walk through other cities where i could not follow, filled me with emptiness.

I realised then what a gaiety would fill my world if I had the assurance that you loved me.

In a vain attempt to make you a part of my world I lie awake imagining half the night. What a foolish heart I have!

How sick I am of my own pose of spurious manliness! What I want is to feel your arms about me and your lips against my eyes, whispering, ‘Mon petit.’

I know at last for certain that I am nothing and you have forgotten me. And yet there was a time when - or do I deceive myself? You could not help writing to me if you have ever cared. You are breaking the news to me slowly by your silence. Perhaps that is the kinder way to do it.

I know that love in one who is not loved, must always seem absurd. I know that I ought to smile and bow in a gallant sort of fashion, excusing myself for having been so mistaken as to have troubled you with my affections. But the men who used to love like that loved lightly; they had scores of years before them to seek their love elsewhere.

I love you as a man loves only once, and I may have but a few hours.

If I come through to-morrow safely, I’ve almost a mind to write you a real love letter. I can picture you reading it, if I were to send it. Those straight brows of yours would draw together. The more impassioned I was, the more puzzled you’d become, It would all be so sudden after my carefully proper letters.

I think of you, as I shall think of you to the end, if the end comes. I do not want you less. I want you more perhaps, only not so selfishly.

And yet there is always you, you, you, to lure me back from death. You with your grey eyes and your intense atmosphere of rest - you with your unconscious womanliness.

Aft4er such a long wait, two nights ago I received your last letter. You hadn’t quite forgotten me. You hadn’t forgotten me at all. You have been ill, but you’re better now.

I dreamt of you last night. It was the first time that this has happened. We were in a garden full of sunshine and roses. You were learning on my arm. We must have been married for some time, for there was no strangeness in our being together. We cam to an old stone summer-house and sat down. You sank your head against my shoulder, gazing up into my eyes, and brushing my lips with your hair.

My heart cries out for you and hears only the silence.

If I come through this, I have made a pledge that I will tell you. The last few months have educated me in taking chances.

I shall never know now whether you would have loved me, or could have been made to care for me. Perhaps you did care, and were waiting for me to give the sign.

It’s the touch of live hands, of lips pressed to lips that counts.

I want to hold you and to say nothing. I want-

#a bit of tragic history that pulls at the heart strings #prompt list #writing prompt list #prompt lists #history #ww1 #world war 1 #wwi #world war i #the great war

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guiltysecretpasttime · 3 years

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Parapraxis

Note: So this was inspired by @peachchanvidel’s post and partially by that one-scene in Brooklyn nine-nine. Hope you like this :)

Linzin AU, one-shot

Parapraxis: a lapse of memory or mental error, such as a slip of the tongue or misplacement of an object, which, in psychoanalytic theory, is due to unconscious associations and motives; commonly called a “freudian slip.”

---

If Lin Beifong were to look back at her life, she would think that some spirit was having a laugh at her expense – more than enough for her to wonder whether she had a past life that angered one of them.

---

The Dragon Flats Strangler had finally been caught and so the residents of the borough (and the police) could breathe a little easier now.

Chief Beifong tapped the report with her glasses, satisfied with the paperwork submitted. The sunlight was hitting her desk straight on, a signal that it was definitely later into the day and that she had not budged one bit since she sat down after lunch break.

She folded her glasses and placed it in its case. The pile of reports waiting on her desk signified that reviews and approvals were in her next hours. It was time to grab some coffee.

The police chief exited her room, seeing that everyone was working diligently on whatever assignments they had that week. None of that fake pencil pushing here in headquarters.

On her way to the pantry, she saw the Avatar nosily bothering Mako, who was, to his credit, shooing her away. Based on previous encounters with them, Lin supposed Korra was trying to wheedle the firebender into another double date with her and Asami, another blind date that the detective was adamantly against.

She decided to interrupt for the benefit of the firebender who was looking miserably at the pile of paperwork on his desk that the Avatar had been riffling through, likely looking for a piece of paper to write the details of the date on.

“Detective!” Chief Beifong approached the pair; Mako suddenly sitting up straight and Korra leaned back in her seat, waving weakly. “Good job on the paperwork on the Dragon Flats Strangler.” She frowned at Korra who was reaching over Mako’s desk to grab his pen. “I’d expect all of your files to be submitted with the same level of meticulousness and detail.”

Mako slapped away Korra’s hand. “Of course, Mom.” He answered distractedly.

Chief Beifong froze as did the Avatar – and everyone within hearing radius.

The detective managed to get his pen from the loose grip of Korra and proceeded to work on his next report.

Korra cleared her throat to get his attention, throwing a glance at Lin then placing an elbow on top of Mako’s paperwork.

“What?” Mako growled irritably.

“You called Chief Beifong Mom.”

Lin saw a brief look of panic on Mako’s face before it turned stoic again. “You must have misheard.”

“No, you did.” One of the other rookies from two desks to Mako’s right piped up.

Korra pointed at the man, nodding. “See, thank you!”

“No,” Mako emphasized but was quickly paling. “I said, of course Chief.”

“They’re right – you called me Mom.” Lin slowly enunciated then pursed her lips. “Detective Mako, do you see me as a mother figure?”

“I-I-I-.” The firebender could only stammer, a far cry from the capable detective who could easily spout off details of a report without even reading off a copy of it.

Normally, she would feel amused, but she took pity on the young man. “Don’t worry about it,” She attempted to downplay it. “We could have a mentoring session if you’d like, one of these days?”

Mako looked like a cat deer caught in the headlights of a satomobile so Lin quickly retracted. "Only if you’d want to of course, the offer stands but it’s not mandatory -.”

“Yes, I’d like that.” The detective managed to bite out.

She nodded and quickly went her way to the pantry.

Chief Beifong figured, having one more rookie to mentor is not so bad.

---

“Higher, Dad, higher!”

The moment the words left her lips, Lin knew she messed up. She did not want to face Aunt Katara, who would likely pity reflected on her eyes. The earthbender just knew the older lady would be uttering the words “oh, sweetie” within the next few minutes, gently letting her down explaining that the airbender playing with her was not her father.

Lin knew that. It’s just – why can’t he be?

To the Avatar’s credit, he did not even bat an eyelash nor did he lose the rhythm of bouncing Lin up and down using an airball.

Before the waterbender could even remark on it, young Lin hollered quickly before she landed gracefully. “I know Uncle Aang’s not my dad – I just slipped, okay? Doesn’t mean anything!”

“Well,” Aang bent down throwing an arm around her and his airbending son, who was waiting patiently for his turn. “I wouldn’t mind being your dad. And after all, I could very well be your dad when you marry Tenzin here!” The airbender tightened his hold on the two children and brought them closer together.

“Ewww no!”

“Yuuuck!”

It would be a cold day in Si Wong desert before that would happen, Lin glared at the lanky airbender beside her.

Tenzin stuck out his tongue at her.

She rolled her eyes at him, stomping.

“Ow! No fair, Lin!”

Marry him? Of course not.

---

Lin twisted the cap of one of the many soju bottles she had stocked in her house.

She smiled with satisfaction at the crack that the cap made and poured herself a shot. She quickly threw it back, enjoying the subtle burn of the alcohol and making that pleased throat clearing sound after.

The earthbender placed one of her feet on her chair while another one dangled as she sat at her dining area. A variety of fried, greasy and fermented food that she bought earlier was spread on the table.

This was the kind of me time that she could get behind. No one to judge her as she indulged on alcohol and unhealthy snacks. It was, after all, a difficult day for her.

At least, as she picked at the sliced fermented radish and chewed pensively, she did not have to attend the wedding of the century. She was invited, of course, but it was obviously a courtesy invite. No doubt, Tenzin’s bride would not welcome her presence. So she gladly sent her regrets and mailed the RSVP note immediately without even second-guessing her herself.

She skewered a piece of grilled picken and dipped it in a sweet sauce.

The ceremony should be about finished at this time, she surmised as she took a bite of the meat. This would be followed by luncheon at the island and maybe a short program.

The metalbender took another shot.

Then later that night, there will be the fireworks, of course, sending off the last airbender and his bride.

Well, good riddance.

Lin had finished most of her food and was at her third bottle of soju. She was also at the middle of the book that she had impulsively purchased yesterday (fiction – she did appreciate the occasional escapism reading brought her) when her phone began to ring incessantly.

She decided to ignore it. Her officers could handle themselves for one day; she was sure there was not anything that would not keep until she was back. Anyway, her deputy was bound to be hammering on her door if there was something that urgently needed her attention.

For a few moments, the phone stopped ringing.

Thank Agni!

Then proceeded to ring again.

Lin groaned, she spoke too soon. Stretching herself from her perch in the dining room, she went to the living room to finally bark at whoever was at the other line for disrupting her day off.

“Beifong here – I swear if this is a salesman or you Saikhan I will -!”

“Lin!” The shrill voice cut through her reprimand.

Lin moved the phone away from her ear to stare at it, stunned.

“Lin? I know you’re there!”

It was Kya.

There was no reason for the sister of Tenzin to be calling her at this time.

“What is it?” She tamped down the irritation that the waterbender did not deserve from her.

“Have you heard the news – on the radio?” Kya’s words rushed forth. “Just wanted to give you a heads up – there’s bound to be something in the evening papers. The media would be keen to get your side as well – they’re having a field day! And -!”

“Kya! Kya!” Lin raised her voice to get a word in. “What are you talking about? I’ve given them my official statement for Tenzin’s wedding weeks ago.” She twirled the cord of the phone.

“Lin,” The earthbender recognized the strain in Kya’s voice. “Yes, it’s about the wedding but not in the context that you think.”

Lin paused in fiddling with the phone cord, sensing there was more to the story. “What happened in the wedding?”

“It’s Tenzin – he -!”

Donk-donk-donk! Donk-donk-donk!

Lin raised her head, hearing the loud pounding on the door. “Kya – is this important right now? Is it a security or safety issue?” The pounding on the door could only mean an emergency from headquarters.

“Well, no, but -.”

“Then it could wait.” Lin bit out harshly; if there was a life and death situation at the other side of the door, she could care less about Tenzin and his tacky wedding. “I’ll give you a call later.” She ended the call abruptly.

Donk-donk-donk-donk-donk-donk!

“I’m coming, I’m coming!” Lin hurried to her front door, taking care not to trip over her own feet. She definitely needed to sober up before going on field. Without even checking who was behind the door, she pulled it open. “Saikhan! What is the emergency?”

Her eyes widened.

Flying fishopotamus.

Tenzin was standing there in his formal wedding garb, dripping under the rain. He was breathing heavily as though he had rushed in getting to her Republic City house. Judging by his glider which was sitting pitifully in the mud, Lin thought he probably did.

“What the flameo are you doing here?”

Her voice pulled the airbender from his stupor. “Lin.”

Lin inwardly shivered. The way he whispered her name was almost reverently. She shook her head; she must be drunk.

The man took a step forward, a hand extending towards her.

She stepped back. “What are you doing here – you shouldn’t be here – you’re married.”

Tenzin shook his head slowly. “I don’t think I am.”

***

“Repeat after me – I, Tenzin –.”

“I, Tenzin - .”

“Take you, Pema to be my wife, my partner in life and my true love.”

“Take you, Lin to be my wife, my partner in life and my true love.”

***

“What the -!” Lin let loose a string of curse words that would have earned her soap in her mouth had she uttered them within earshot of her Beifong grandparents.

Tenzin stood back, letting the rain and the wind batter him down.

“What were you thinking!” Lin clenched and unclenched her fist, visibly restraining herself from punching the airbender. “Think about how humiliated Pema is! Your family, her family! Tenzin – go back there and grovel! Pema…” She caught her breath. “She doesn’t deserve this.” The light in her eyes dimmed and the fight seemed to seep out of her.

“And that’s why I’m here – why it’s still you!” Tenzin’s wild eyes sought hers. “Even after everything,” His tone softened. “You still think about others. That’s how selfless you are and how selfish I am.” He wiped back some of the rainwater from his forehead. He inched closer slowly and hesitantly. “Even after everything, it’s still you.”

---

Chief Beifong extremely disliked doing press conferences. Given the choice, as illogical as it would have been, she would have done away with the press (something has to be said of freedom of the press and freedom of expression though so obviously the press needed to stay).

After the wedding of the century devolved into the faux pas of the century years ago, Lin did not have fond words for the press. They skewered Tenzin’s reputation and dissected their interactions over the past months of that year.

It took a few more years and several scandals of prominent members of the nobility for their relationship (or lack thereof) to fade from public interest.

Ironically, it was during this period that they started to become closer (with a lot of work and effort from Tenzin, of course and Lin still vacillating between taking him back or not).

The media circus a rabbit hole she dare not get into again, so she better make sure that her speech is flawless.

She shuddered involuntarily as she reviewed her speech, head bent and hands rubbing her temples. She nodded at the staff who were silently hurrying around, making sure all of the microphones were set correctly and the chairs and tables were available for all attendees.

The press conference today was about the opening of the cultural center in Republic City. The council would be there to give their opening remarks and she would speak in her capacity as Chief of Police regarding how the area would be secured.

After all, the cultural center was situated in a reclaimed area which used to be lorded over by triads. It was up to the police force to ensure that no crime or act of terrorism befalls the center and its opening in order to encourage more investors into Republic City.

From her peripheral view, Tenzin’s robes swept close as he sat himself beside her at the conference table set up for them.

She paid him no mind as she ran her finger on the figures in the packet she was reviewing.

“Seems like a huge crowd will be joining the press conference today.” The airbender arranged his own set of papers as he commented on the people who was starting to gather in the venue.

The metalbender gave a soft grunt in reply.

“By the way, thanks for doing this Lin.” Tenzin shifted in his seat. “I know you could have easily sent a representative to speak for the Police Headquarters.” He murmured softly, inching his head closer to her. “And, personally, I appreciate your presence. You know how much this means to me, it’s a chance to show case my mother’s heritage.”

Lin inclined her head and responded vaguely. “Of course Tenzin, you know I love you so I’ll do what I can to support you fully.” She tapped her pen on her speech and encircled a split infinitive. She would need to proofread a little bit better next time.

She felt a warm hand grasp her wrist; she finally looked up at her seatmate. “What?”

Tenzin’s eyes were suspiciously watery.

Lin became conscious with how whispers were increasing in volume. She raised an eyebrow at the airbender in askance.

Tenzin bit his lip, swallowing before tentatively covering her hand with his.

What was he doing? Why was he doing this in public?

Her thoughts were running all over the place. It was not like Tenzin to be bold or even indiscreet.

“Tenzin.” She hissed.

“You just said you love me.”

“I…” Lin went back to what she did say, realizing belatedly that she did. “I guess I did.”

The whispers were definitely louder this time.

Tenzin gripped her hand tighter; his other hand gesturing forward.

Her heart skipped a beat.

A microphone had been placed on their table for sound check without her noticing it.

Her declaration had been heard in the entire hall.

---

Lin Beifong swirled the wine in her glass, silently observing the people weave in and out of the dance floor.

Say what you want of the damn convict, Varrick truly knew how to throw a party.

She reflected on her life so far.

As much as she had emphatically refused to have children, Lin woke up one day realizing that, without meaning to, she had inadvertently taken in several teenagers under her wing. Thank the Spirits that Mako, the one mostly with her, was someone after her own cranky taciturn disposition.

And, despite her steadfast refusal in her youth, in front of the man’s father, she looked at the ring that adorned her finger for decades, Lin found herself wed to Tenzin.

Something has to be said about slips of the tongue, of the unconscious. When you feel strongly about someone or something, it was bound to slip right out – the truth escaping the barriers that the mind has built.

If this was how the spirits feel like treating her after all those mortifying moments, Lin Beifong decided that she was not one to complain.

After all, Lin contemplated with wonder as she looked at the spirit portals across the island with her husband landing a soft kiss on her forehead, unplanned and spontaneous words come up with the best results.

#linzin #linzin fanfic #lin beifong #tenzin #legend of korra fanfic #toccatina's fanfics #toccatina completed

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