~WHEN THE PARTICLE OF GOD PERMEATES YOU~ || Part II

~WHEN THE PARTICLE OF GOD PERMEATES YOU~ || Part II

P̵̪̃ȁ̸̩ȓ̸̜ẗ̶͇́ ̴̓͜1̷̺̽

Summary: Without the past you can't understand the present. You meet Higgs Monaghan on your way. Will he help you find out about your past or will he try to use you for his own purposes?

Warnings: None

Words: 3299

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Days had been passing, and the situation remained unchanged.

You were lurking throughout the camp trying to be as productive as it was only possible, however you didn't have many occasions to help in anything as the others were pushing you aside. You weren't surprised though; you were a newcomer, without a purpose or any special skills, and you quickly became Higgs' favourite, which most of his men didn't approve.

Sometimes, it's enough to survive another day, right?, you'd been thinking to yourself.

"Would you look at that? Our little star is doing nothing as always. Why don't you go and be useful? Sucking Higgs off ain't enough here," one of men said grabbing your shoulder. "Why is he even keeping you here?"

Meanwhile Higgs was away, sitting in his bunker. He was trying to come up with some logical theory of how you ended up where you did. How could this happen that you just woken up with no past? “I’ve got breaking news and it’s about you fucking off of me,” you showed your middle finger to the group of men, and in return your gained few chuckles and some more rambunctious comments. When Higgs was gone, they were making a lot of fun of you, always; you hated every minute in the camp without Man in The Golden Mask.

Meantime, Higgs hummed, studding the map and trying to find the place you could come out from. Bridges was the closest point but it made no fucking seans for them to just leave you out there to die.

After a few more minutes Higgs shrugged. "Ah, fuck it. Time to check upon my kittycat." And with that he was back in the camp as he teleported. After stretching his back he called you. "Y/N! Where is my favourite girl hiding?" You were almost outside the camp, sitting at one of the largest rocks, taking notes and sketching the mountains located on the north. You tried to escape from all of the mean glances and comments. “Hey, you,” one of the guards pointed his laser gun at you. “Higgs is seeking  you in the camp. Move your ass to him.” With a loud sigh escaping your lips you closed the sketchbook and pinned your hair in a ponytail. While walking back to the camp, you were thinking about your purpose, it was pretty frustrating that you didn’t remember anything even after such a long period of time.

Higgs waited with hands crossed on his chest. He gave you a wicked smile as soon as he noticed you approaching. “Ah! Here is my lady with no past. I was getting fucking worried you are gone."

“Me? Gone? I have nowhere to go,” you replied to him with disarming honesty. “Good to see you, you’ve been gone for a longer while...,” you hesitated after saying this as you knew he’ll assume you missed him. Thanks Beach he didn’t realize yet it was all true.

"My cute deflowered sweetheart missed me," Higgs chuckled softly with a wide smile, showing the line of white teeth. "I missed you too and I was away, indeed. I’ve been thinking from where you came and I may have an idea."

Hearing his words you tilted your head aside a little. “Tell me?,” you asked.

"Well, my little, sexy kitten might be Bridges' property. Am not sure yet but I sure will find out!," He said loudly and shrugged. "I even have an idea how I will do it."

While you were listening to his words, your thoughts drifted in some unknown way and when you gathered your attention, you gave him a brief nod. “I see.” A deep sigh left your parted lips as you glared up at him. “Hey, I’ve been wondering whether there's something I can do around the camp, I hate how others are making fun of me and the fact that my only purpose here is to warm your cock up,” you rubbed your temples. “I can do anything, bring packages, clean, whatever.”

He chuckled at your question. It was simply stupid. "You are here to be by my side. To be a good girl," Higgs said, gently touching your cheek. "Tell me who bothered you and I will take care of this." A shiver ran along your spine as he touched your cheek; his tenderness was light like a touch of butterfly wings yet his fingers seemed to burn marks on your face. “Forget about it,” you asked him quickly as you dared to put your palm on top of his.

Higgs laughed and grabbed your waist, pulling you as close as possible. "Listen I know you might have a soft heart but it's all about the example. So? Which of those fuckers did it?," He asked again.

You licked your lips and bit the lower one as you got stressed. “If you truly care for me, leave it. I can handle as I don’t care,” you asked him once again while wrapping arms around his chest and nuzzling your head to him.

He squezzed your waist and smiled. "Kitten. You forgot who I am. No one dares to hurt what's mine, even with stupid insults," Higgs summed up and gently pushed you aside to walk to the group of terrorits. He smiled softly looking at others. "Okay! Listen up, fuckers. Which one of you was brave enough to throw stupid words at my girl?"

“Oh my God,” you whispered under your breath as you realized what was happening. You followed him quickly and stood by his side, swallowing hardly while your sight slipped over all the gathered men.

“It was me,” one of them stepped ahead from the group, keeping his head produly up. “Listen, Higgs, we all know that you’re the most powerful of us but it’s fucking rude to be the only one who gets laid and who’s allowed to have a girl around. Most of us don’t like her presence as all she does is lurking around, no purpose, no skills,” the guy continued to speak. “Would be better if you sent her away or killed her. No one needs her around, except you. You’re not better than any of us.”

Higgs hummed listening to the complaints. Then he walked in the line, from left to right with his hands placed behind his back. "If I can be honest. She is more worthy than any of you here but…," he said slowly, rubbing his chin, "But you, bastards, you all are fucking lucky. IT'S YOUR LUCKY FUCKING DAY! Because instead of killing you all and leaving your bodies at Bridges doorsteps, I will fix what you all are complaining about," Higgs announced and looked at you.

You frowned a little at his words.

“So? Will you send her away?,” the man asked, his eyes and you.

Higgs wrapped his arm around your shoulder, pulling your tightly to his side.

"Oh, Y/N, Y/N... You see, these men here are mad at me because I gave you no duties," he let out a loud sigh, petting your hair. "So, from now on, this lovely lady here is my second in command! You insult her - you insult me and trust me fellas, you don't wanna do that. Thank you for the attention, get back to your fucking duties!," Higgs snorted at the men, kissing your cheek, and then walked away like nothing ever happened.

You almost fainted when he claimed you for his deputy. You felt the piercing glances of his men on you and you already knew it would bring even more troubles. After a second of thinking, you ran after him. “Higgs, I don’t think it’s a good idea, I have like… I mean… I’m not as charismatic as you, I can’t command people,” you tugged on his sleeve to stop him from walking. “They already hate me, now it will escalate,” you shook your head. “Let’s face the truth, I’m no one, I have no idea how to… You know.”

Higgs effortlessly picked you up. "If they will, then they will meet the friendly BTs. You are working with me now. Don't worry, I will handle everything."

To support yourself from falling, you instinctively wrapped legs around his hips and nuzzled to his chest. “Thank you, Higgs. You’re doing so much to me when I did so less in return. I have no idea how some people can call you a terrorist or a bad guy. I wish they could spend at least one day around you and I bet they’d agree with me on the fact you’re not only a great, fearless leader but also a charming, caring man.”

Higgs laughed. "I nuked two towns. I want to end the fucking world. No one else but you would like me, dear," he summed up before placing a soft kiss to your rosy lips.

When the evening came, Higgs was positive about his idea. He had to get into Bridges place and dig through their documents. If you’ve ever been one of them, your documents should be there.

"How do I look, my sexy second in command?," Higgs asked, presenting himself wrapped in an old Bridges uniform. "Let's not foeget about the fucking crown," he joked putting the Bridges hat on.

You two were in Higgs' tent. You were laying on your side on his cot resting head on your hand. "You look fucking handsome, as always," you informed him. "This uniform hugs your ass nicely though," you didn't stop yourself from adding. "Are you sure you won't be to assist you? I'm going to be sad while you'll be gone," you slowly sat on the cot.

" I will do it myself. This can't be hard, there is only one lady as sweet as you. I will find it quickly and before you’ll count to ten - I am going to be fucking back," Higgs said improving the belt. "After that, I will fuck you so hard that the whole camp will hear the second in commend screaming under the leader."

A soft chuckle of yours escaped your mouth as the reaction for his statement. "After your return, I'll just take care of you, make sure you eat and drink and later we will cuddle," you told him while getting up. "And if you'll be a good boy, I'll think of a prize." You walked to him and wrapped your arms around him. "Promise me you'll be careful and won't let them catch you."

 "Sweetheart. I feel so fucking hurt right now! I thought you have more faith in me," Higgs chuckled and squeezed your cheek playfully. "Don't make your sweet little face worried about it. They will never get me."

When he vanished you circled his tent a few times before taking a seat in the corner, just like you did the first day when he found you in the cave.

Getting inside was a child's play. Who would mind a porter wandering the corridors? Of course fucking no one.

The archives were a mix of papers and computer data. Going through the second thing was easy, yet your face didn't flash on any document, and it was fine.

Maybe he was wrong. Maybe you weren't Bridges. That would be a fucking relief.

After an hour of digging through papers, Higgs was sitting on the floor with legs crossed. He was reading through one of the folders when the ones he read previously were scattered around him like snow.

The door to the archive slides open and Samuel Bridges stepped in; he had to pick some folders up to deliver them to Lake Knot City. He became suspicious when he spotted a mess and folders laying on the floor. As he stepped further into the long room, he found even more documents scattered everywhere. "You. Who are ya and what are ya doing here?," He asked, his tone cold as he spotted a man sitting in the middle of the room.

Higgs didn't raise his eyes until he was done with the folder he was holding in palms, after reading through it he simply threw it over his shoulder.

"Ah! Sammy boy! It's nice to see you again, sorry but I don't have time for a chit chat. I am looking for something," he shrugged, taking another folder into his hands.

 Sam cringed at the sound of the voice, too familiar. It couldn’t be a coincidence. "Higgs? What the fuck?," He asked in disbelief as he walked closer to the other man. "How did you... Ah, right. You jumped through the Beach," Sam replied himself. "Leave it," he pulled the folder out of Higgs' hands.

"You are a smart boy, ain't ya?," He laughed and in another folder he saw your photo.

"BINGO! Here you are, sweetheart!" Higgs said loudly and jumped back to his feet. "Tell me, Sammy boy, do you know anything about a particular porter? Her name is Y/N?"

Sam blinked, he was getting more confused with every second. "What's your problem, Higgs, have you fallen in love? Ah, right, it's hard to make connections when you don't have a heart," Sam grinned wryly at the other man. "Even if I know, I won't tell you, that's not your business since the day you and the tide has turned. Give it back," Sam yanked the hat off Higgs' head.

Higgs laughed and rolled his eyes, tucking your folder under his suit to make sure Sam won't get it. "Well! To your surprise I fell in love. Just like you. Well! But you’re not in love anymore. I bet that wife of yours was beautiful…," He mocked walking around Sam. "But she was blind for taking a chance on ya."

Sam reacted instantly with aiming his first at Higgs' cheek. "Apologize, you useless fucker, and give me the fucking folder back."

Higgs only laughed at the reaction. "Wife and unborn child. Such a shame, maybe that is why you are so sad and grumpy, and developed this phobia of yours," Higgs laughed playfully. "You know what? I like you, you can keep the cap. I have few from the old, good days. It was nice to see you again, Sammy boi!," Higgs licked the tip of Sam's nose before disappearing.

Sam tried to grab Higgs by his Bridges uniform but he didn't manage. Cursing under his breath he quickly left the archive without picking the folder he came there for; he had to inform Deadman about the situation.

You were dreaming about some crazy ass things like dolphins trying to pull you under water when Higgs returned. You were still sitting in the corner of his tent, knees pulled under your chin, your arms wrapped around them as you were rolled in a ball.

Before entering the tent, Higgs took a brief look at the info about you gathered in the folder he stole. He wasn't sure what to think. After entering the tent he looked at you and chuckled quietly, getting on your level by crouching.  Higgs brushed hair off of your forehead and placed a kiss there. "Ding ding, ding! Honey, I am home. Where is my promised dinner?"

You jolted in place, your muscles twitched and you almost screamed. You opened eyes and for a brief second they were getting used to the light of the lamp. When you saw him crouching next to you, you knelt and wrapped arms around his neck, pulling him into the tight hug. "Higgs! I dreamt they got you! I was so... Scared! You're back! Holy Beach, I was so scared." As you were hugging him he could easily feel the beat of your racing heart, even though your suit. "Let me bring you something. I tried to get you pizza but... I failed."

Higgs hugged you tightly, holding you with both arms. "Well, maybe it's because you slept on the floor. I didn't get these fancy pillows and blankets for nothing," he chuckled, rubbing your back. "It's okay, sugar. I will make Sam deliver us some. Look what I got," he said proudly, showing you the folder.

You shivered. "Is this... Is this mine?," You asked him as you sat on the floor. "Who am I then?," You made puppy eyes and looked right into his.

"You are a porter apparently. Ex now, technically. Good one," Higgs summed up. “Y/N. Working for Bridges for 5 years. Fast and careful with her deliveries, open for contacts with clients as well as fellow porters. Went missing in action. Y/N delivered the assigned package yet never made it back to any of the existing facilities. There were no voidouts that could mean her death. No body nor evidences were ever found. Investigation in that case brought nothing, so Y/N is presumed dead but there's still a slight chance of her being still alive. Signed by: Director Die-Hardman," Higgs ended reading the last note in your folder.

You nodded. "So... They're not looking for me... So, in this situation... I can be whoever I want because I think they wouldn't let me get back..."

"It's not that you are kicked out. I bet that as soon as you would get to any of their places, they would take care of you. They think you are dead but with a possibility of return," he explained. "Y/N? I need to ask you something."

You looked at him like a kid would look at the parent. "Yes?"

"Is this a hoax? I walked into Bridges without problem and then? I get fucking Sam Bridges into the archive. My people were doing their job and you come out of nowhere. You don't know who you are yet you cling to me so suddenly," he said with a frown. "Is this a trap? Did they send you to get inside? To get to me?"

You lowered your head. "Even if they did, I don't remember. I told you many times, I have no idea how I found myself outside, all alone, only with a backpack. I'm clingy because... I...," You started blushing so you got up to take a seat on his cot. "You showed me affection, you offered me your generosity, hospitality... You were kind when no one else was. You took care of me and kinda taught me how to survive in this shit."

Higgs joined you on the coat. "You promise me that the note, and your lack of memory isn't just a way to get to me?"

"I cross my heart," you assured him with a serious tone. "I don't care what you have done and why do they want to get to you but God's my witness I won't tell anyone about you." The fact he even could think about you being a spy hurt you much but you kept a straight face.

"I am sorry for accusing you for anything," Higgs whispered into your ear before pulling you on his lap. “Ya know, gotta be careful about some certain things.”

You nuzzled to the crook of his neck. "It's okay, I understand, I would be suspicious too if I were you."

Higgs smiled, playing with your hair. "My little porter," he said with a smile. "Only mine."

You inhaled his scent, the sweet mix of a masculine musk and warmth of his skin. You placed a kiss to his bearded cheek and brushed your against his shortly after. Your arms wrapped around his chest. "Thank you for all you've done to me, for keeping me safe."

"And I will keep on keeping you safe. Not a single fucking Bridges will ever lie a finger on you again. You will stay with me till the end of the world we know," Higgs said, squeezing you tightly.

A sad sigh escaped your lips. "Till the end."

A TREASURE HEIST

This nice idea was reguested by @rafeadler-kingofwealth​! Nathan mocking Rafe about his wealth.

I hope you will like it!

@arthurbristow​ thank you for being my Nate once again! ♥

—————————-

The Drake brothers have a meeting with their new acquaintance who has to help them get to the Saint Dismas Cross. When the older brother is fine with Adler’s idea, the younger one has a lot of concern about the matter.

Keep reading

Halloween one shots - Uncharted edition

Summary: two very short stories written for upcoming Halloween.

Warnings: None

Words: 1635

Authors: Cass & Rouge

You remembered how you said you wanted to just spend halloween at home with your boyfriend. Without others lurking around through a mansion you're living in. 

When Rafe was gone, you had the place entirely for yourself, which meant you could do whatever you wanted, as long as it didn't include devastating the property. 

Despite the fact in the house you couldn't find any proper materials, you decided that Rafe will be welcomed with cheerful and resourceful Halloween decorations, no matter how much effort it will cost.

Setting everything around the mansion took you almost a week, with a little help from servants. Soon, a spooky skeleton dressed in a suit with a hat on stood in Rafe's office, right next to his wooden desk. You also used twigs, moss and fake spiderwebs to decorate it, as well as the staircase.

Carved pumpkins also stood on the floors along the corridors, having little candles ignited in them.

-------------------------

Rafe saw plenty of Halloween decorations in storefronts on his way home.

He didn't pay much attention to them.

 Halloween was childish to him. All the silly, scary costumes, decorations and trick-or-treating. Stupid reason for kids to bother him every year. Stupid brats thought that if their parents bought them 300$ costumes that they are something special.

 Rafe was more than happy to return home. He missed you and his bed, not to mention a mix of both. He was a horny bastard after those two weeks without you.

 Adler returned home late. Really fucking late but he still had some minor stuff to take care of. After taking his coat off and leaving it in a hallway, Rafe went to his office.

 It was fucking dark. All he could see was a person-like shape standing right next to the window.

Raising an eyebrow, he switched on the light and looked at the fake skeleton.

"I hope it’s Drake's and not some cheap shit she had gotten on sellout,” he muttered unamused with the decoration.

 You were aware of his return, so you went downstairs to greet him. Frowning you found out that his coat was hung on a hanger, yet there was no Rafe in the sight. You tapped your nose, thinking. 

You decided to check within one room he was using frequently - his office.

 Rafe looked up as soon as he heard the door open. "I assume you are the one that put that crap into my office,” he muttered resting his chin on his hand.

 You nodded eagerly at first. “Yes! He does look cute, doesn’t he?!,” you clapped your hands and walked to the skeleton to improve its hat. “Oh, and by the way, hi,” you turned to Rafe and leand forward to place a brief kiss on his cheek. “I missed you and decided to decorate the mansion while you’re gone,” you claimed proudly.

 "First of all, why? And who the hell let you use my clothes?," Rafe asked with a frown.

 You shrugged a little while bending your butt against his desk. “I just thought you’ll be gone for a little longer, so I decided to make something like a substitute of your presence here, maybe just in a more funny way though,” you informed him while playing with the edge of your dress. “Just don’t get me wrong, I don’t think you’re fossilized nor something like that, no. I just thought I could merge this with upcoming Halloween. And I let myself use your clothes. Don’t be mad with me.” 

 "I am mad. You live here for three years now. Have you ever seen me celebrating this bullshit!?," He growled looking at you. "You better remove my expensive clothes off that shit and take it out from my office."

 “But, honey!,” you gasped, “Why? I spent hours preparing all this. I put my heart into preparing decorations, baking your favourite pumpkin muffins,” you counted. “Why are you expecting me to leave my little customs behind?”

 "I don't like pumpkin muffins," he said, crossing arms over his chest.  "Just as much as I hate this shitty holiday or whatever it's called. Get this outta my office or it will fly through the window."

 You lowered your head and let out a sigh. “Okay, as you wish, dear,” informing him, you walked to the skeleton you’d already named Valentino and picked him up with a loud gasp. 

 Rafe sighed deeply seeing your sadness. "Okay, he can stay. Just really, take this expensive suit off. Take my old trousers and t-shirt."

He couldn't bear the sight of your sadness, so maybe keeping that particular decoration and every other you prepared was a good idea. For your well-being at least.

 You stopped and turned your head slightly to look at your boyfriend. “You mean it? Like, really really?,” You asked, blinking.

 Rafe nodded. "As long as your bony friend isn't taking my expensive clothes, this let’s say installation can stay."

 You put Valentino back on his place and walked to Rafe, quickly taking place on his comfortable lap, wrapping arms around his neck. “You’re kind when you want to be,” you reminded him, nudging his shoulder a little. Your hands then cupped his face and held it in place when you leaned forward to kiss him passionately. “I’m glad you’re back and that I’ll have you by my side on the spooky, upcoming night! I hope you’ll be my protector.”

 Rafe hummed deeply. "I can protect you all night in our bed. Just you and me between your legs," he said and wrapped his arms around you before getting up with you.

 “Rafael Adler, you were cute but you had to destroy it with your ambiguity of course!,” You chuckled softly and kissed his temple. “I’ll think whether you deserve the prize or not.”

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Sam frowned looking at the rubber mask of the werewolf. It wasn't something he was looking for but he got a good idea how to use it this one time.

 He hummed and looked through the shop alleys until he found you in the candy section. After all you both came here to stock up on candies for kids and for both of you.

You wearing a red dress only gave him more ideas.

Putting on the werewolf mask Sam sneaked behind you. He was good at this so why not to use that skill.

 Sam grabbed your hips pulling you tightly against his chest.

"Would you look at that! Big Bad Wolf got his little Red Riding Hood!"

 You let out a loud squeak, which caused few people to look in your direction. You instantly put your hand over your mouth and gasped. “Sorry! I didn’t expect this! Don’t scare me!”

You turned your head slightly and looked at Sam’s mask, which made you scream once more. “Drake, you old bastard!”

 "I am the Big Bad Wolf! And I will eat you!," He growled and picked you up. "Unless the wolf will get a kiss."

 You hummed and shook your head. “No, you won’t get a kiss. I don’t know whether you had your rabies vaccination,” you chuckled at your own words.

 "Oh don't be such a Snow Queen. I had my rabies vaccination, because there is a prince under that fur. So?," Sam hummed, smiling under the mask.

 You leaned forward to reach nis exposed neck where you placed a kiss. “Then I can agree. I want to have the prince only for myself. I demand it. But now, put me down, people are staring!”

 "And that's how the Little Red Riding Hood removed the curse from the prince," Sam said and removed the mask. "I don't know if I will put you down. Why should I?"

 “I’m a little girl that doesn’t like to be lifted up, not counting some particular situations of course,” you smiled. “Put me down, my prince. I need to buy some candies for our subjects for the upcoming fest.”

 Sam thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay. I will but you will do something for me and only then I will put you down."

 You wrapped arms around his neck to support yourself from falling. “What is this?”

 "We will buy those matching pirate couple costumes" Sam asked happily. He knew you hated that idea from the start but maybe this was the right moment to get them.

 You rolled your eyes but nodded in the end. “We will, pinky promise.”

 "Yes!" Sam said loudly, getting other people's attention again.  He kissed you quickly and put you down. "C'mon! They are in a different alley," Sam almost sang, pulling you behind.

 You followed him, gathering packs of candies you had prepared before. When you two got to the point, you checked the costumes out and hummed, thinking. “I need to admit that they look cool. Pity that lady costume covers less than it shows.”

 "Every captain needs his sexy lady," Sam said, wiggling his eyebrows at you. "Besides, we can always use them for some roleplay in the bedroom after halloween."

 As the blush crept onto your lips, you smirked wryly at him. “So, are you a captain, a bad wolf or a prince? Make up your mind, handsome.”

 "I am everything to you. Just as you are to me," Sam explained with a shrug.

 You reached out and stroked his bearded cheek. “I love you. But we gotta get to the checkout now as I’m having a lot of work at home yet, gotta make pumpkin pie, gotta prepare decorations and carve the pumpkins.”

Sam nodded. "Okay. I can't wait to get a slice of that pie." When he started walking toward the checkout, you slightly spanked his butt in fitted jeans. “If you’ll help me then I’ll consider getting you some,” you informed Sam. “Move up, move up, Mister Pirate.”

Arranged Marriage || Part I || Ivar x Female!OC

Part II

Summary: Freya, the youngest daughter of Earl from far away northern land, is about to marry the youngest son of Ragnar, Ivar the Boneless. At the beginning, they're not content with the circumstances. The situation changes radically when they discover that they're attracted to each other.

Warnings: None.

Words: 3448

Authors: Cass & Fenrir

For almost all Vikings the family was the most important social unit.

Marriage was virtually universal, divorce rare, and virtually every marriage produced children. Almost all marriages were arranged by family elders based on caste, degree of consanguinity, economic status, and many more. Vikings' marriage was essentially a business contract between two families and it was arranged in two stages: the betrothal and the wedding.

The initiative had to come from the man or his father, who would propose marriage to the woman's father or guardian. If the latter was agreeable, the groom promised to pay the bride price which was called mundr.

In return, the bride's father promised to hand over her dowry at the wedding. Both the bride price and the dowry remained the property of the bride after the wedding. The two men shook hands on the agreement in front of witnesses and agreed on a date for the wedding, usually within a year.

The long table in the throne chamber had seen every emotion, from the sweet silent happiness of family times, when the only sound was contented enjoyment, to the rage that bursts out in the hard times.

That day was one of the second options.

"Why have you done this?," Ivar growled, looking directly at queen Aslaug who sat on the opposite side of the table.

Ivar, when he was feeling triggered, didn't care about loving bonds that were becoming inaccessible. In this mode, he had to take great care not to hurt anyone nor to destroy something in his vicinity. Anger, pain, sadness were so intertwined that perhaps their names sought to be tweaked to reflect the true origins of those emotions. His palm curled in a fist smashed against the tabletop. "No one has asked you for any kind of help, mother."

"That's because we all know she would never ask for help," Aslaug sighed deeply, sipping on her beloved wine. "And it's not only about you, Ivar. We planned to place Ubbe in your place because he is the oldest, but since he is so popular among women, there is no point in hurting the girl," she explained and got up to walk closer to him. After cupping his cheek, Aslaug smiled. "You should be glad, love. You will have a wife."

“Like I would need one,” Ivar barked back but placed his palm on top of hers, caressing still smooth skin. “It’s good as it is now, mother. I already have a woman nestled within my heart though.”

Aslaug frowned a little, looking at him. "Who? That thrall? The one that is fucking around like a common whore? I am more than sure she fucked with all three of her brothers, if not with the whole Kattegat."

Ivar let out a loud snort. “It’s you, mother. You’re the most important woman in my life. I don’t need anyone else.”

"One day I will be gone. Someone needs to take care of you once it happens, love," the queen sighed, stroking his cheek.

Ivar got up slowly, looking hard into her eyes. “Just so she would be aware: if any woman appears here, I’ll snap her neck.”

After these words he slowly limped back to his chamber, cursing under his breath at the strong pain within his legs.

Aslaug simply rolled her eyes at Ivar's behaviour.

__________________________________

She bit her lips crossing the gate of Kattegat.

She should be happy! She's going to marry one of Ragnar's sons, it's a great opportunity for her and her family. Yet she was scared and mad. How could someone have decided about her own life and heart?!

So there she was, standing in front of queen Aslaug and her sons while her father told the woman whatever she wanted to know. This was uncomfortable.

Ivar refused to leave his chamber; he still didn’t sign the truce with the idea of his mother. The very last thing he needed or wanted was a random girl lurking through his chambers, wanting nothing but new dresses and demanding attention. And he wanted to raid! With his brothers and father.

The girl went red as her father tried his best to present her in the best way possible. "Queen? If I may... When will I meet my... Future husband? I honestly can't wait," she lied with a perfectly faked smile, looking at the queen's sons. If one of them was going to be her husband, it could be nice.

Aslaug smiled softly and sighed deeply. "Sadly, I have no idea when this will happen. My son decided to be stubborn today."

The girl blinked, shocked.

Hvitserk pushed Ubbe’s side with his elbow, leaning closer to his older brother. “She’s not bad. Looking good, redhead, sweet babyface. Would certainly check what she’s hiding beneath that dress.”

Ubbe couldn’t stop himself from giggling. “You know it’s possible, right? If our brother will be cold towards her, we’re going to warm her bed in the process.”

Suddenly everyone gathered in the throne chamber could hear a steady sound of crutches hitting the wooden floor. Soon, Ivar, all dressed in black, entered the chamber.

She frowned a little looking at the young man.

Of course, she heard about Ragnar's youngest son, the cripple, but she hoped for one of the older boys. Maybe Ubbe, hell, she would even take Bjørn Ironside himself, but the cripple?!

"Queen Aslaug? I was sure we talked about her oldest son," her father said.

"That's true, but the decision changed. It doesn't matter which of my sons she will marry. The arrangement stays the same," the queen replied rather coldly.

"What?! Is this some kind of a joke?!,” the young girl whimpered loudly, getting everyone's attention. "I won't marry a cripple! How am I supposed to have children with him?!”

Ivar stopped for a brief second, listening to her whining. “Here we go then!” He offered her a cold grin. “Believe me,” he said, checking her from the bottom to the top, “If I knew they wanted me to marry such a thrall, I’d have never agreed on that. Just look at her. You look like a beggar. I told you it’s not a good idea, mother,” Ivar walked closer to the queen. “She is here for a few moments and she’s already whining like a drowned kitten.”

"And you aren't better," Sigurd muttered, looking away.

Girl blinked. "A thrall?! How dare she, cripple! I am Earl's daughter. You're not only a cripple, you're also blind."

Aslaug sighed deeply, massaging her temple. "I do not care if she agrees or not, Ivar. You will marry her whether you like it or not," the woman growled slightly, tired of Ivar's behavior. "She will stay here so she two can get to know each other a little. Better be nice.”

“I’ll try to not kill her,” Ivar promised sweetly, at the same moment throwing a cold glance to the girl.

Ubbe stopped his youngest brother by catching his shoulder. “Behave. She’s very pretty and comes from a wealthy family.”

“If you want to have her dick wet with her juices, she can have her, brother,” Ivar snapped back, leaving the Great Hall.

The girl rolled her eyes. You were sure that this relationship would be hard and pointless but she still expected more.

When Ivar was gone, she was left alone since her father wanted to finish everything with the queen and return home.

She decided to take a look around, just to know where she will be living from now on.

After an hour or two she returned to the Great Hall and there she was caught by Ubbe who wanted to talk with her. He was nice, for sure nicer than her soon-to-be husband.

She talked with him for a moment until she noticed Ivar returning to the Great Hall.

“... remember, anytime,” Ubbe smiled at her, winking a little after giving her a piece of advice.

Ivar grunted under his breath; even from a distance, he could see the girl that was supposed to become his wife flirting with his older brother. “Fucking love birds,” he mumbled to himself, slowly limping toward his home.

“Oh, Ivar, there you are!,” Ubbe was the first one to walk closer to his brother. “Where have you been? We got worried.”

“Worried? About who? Your crippled brother? There’s no need to be worried about me, dear brother, I grew bigger balls than hers, and trust me, nobody in their right mind would want to mess with me.”

The girl scoffed and crossed her arms over her chest. He was so rude and full of himself that it was simply annoying "Well, somehow there are people who care about her. For some odd reason,” she shrugged.

Ivar frowned, looking at her. “Ubbe, dear brother? Would she be so kind to make this bitch stop barking with that tiny, annoying voice of hers? It irritates my ears.”

Ubbe aimed a blow in the back of Ivar’s head. “Apologise.”

“Who? Her? Never.”

“Apologise,” Ubbe replied. “Or I am going to tell mother and she won’t be impressed.”

Ivar rolled his eyes. “Sorry but next time do not speak without being allowed.”

"I will speak when I desire to. You won't keep me silent,” she growled back. "The only dog here is you. Trying to walk around and growling, trying to show how scary you are. Just so you know, it doesn't impress me in any way."

Ivar chuckled and looked at her with pity. “As I would care, woman. Better get used to my way of living because our parents are not keen on breaking this ridiculous agreement.” Ivar slowly limped back to the Great Hall, not looking back at her and Ubbe.

She groaned and rubbed her face. "You think Gods will hate me if I throw myself off the cliff or if I drown myself? Gods save me somehow!," She said to Ubbe.

He laughed shortly, darkly. “Don’t be such a pessimist. You need to have faith. Ivar is problematic and very hard to deal with but he has bright sides and deep inside he craves to be loved, with all of his flaws.”

"It doesn't look like it. Ever since he saw me he has called me names,” she sighed deeply. "Maybe I should just return home."

“Give him a chance. You’ll see that he is not that bad. Of course, it will take time to develop any feelings but do not give up on him and the relationship so easily,” he replied.

"It would be easier if he wouldn't act like a mad dog trying to bite right into my throat,” she said softly. "I honestly hoped for one of you to be my husband... But Gods hate me."

__________________________________

One sleepless night was fine, Ivar would rather be dreaming of course, yet this night became one extended moment of ponderance. He embraced it. He felt all the reasons why his soul was so perturbed and asked how he may navigate better. There was yet no response to the questions he had been asking for years.

Ivar felt a very unpleasant tingling within his abdomen; he knew it was caused by his cruelty towards that girl he was supposed to marry soon.

One part of him wanted to search for her and apologise while the other ignored her existence.

Ivar had been torn apart for years. But now his insecurities started escalating.

After rolling all over his bed for some more time, he let out a loud grunt and sat up, looking for the crutches. He realised then that probably one of his thralls moved them aside so they would not fall on the floor, waking him up.

Ivar reached for a black, wool sweatshirt laying at the wooden nightstand and he put it on. After that, he crawled out of his bed and crossed the room to reach the door.

She received her room, which was nice. The whole day she dreamed about a soft bed and some rest, especially after meeting her future husband. He was already so annoying, how was she supposed to spend the rest of her life with him?! Would Gods forgive a murder? Or any other mischievous act that would help her get rid of him quicker? Maybe he could die soon? He was a cripple in the end.

She pushed these thoughts aside and nuzzled to the pillow, covering herself with thick fur. It was time to get some sleep, maybe tomorrow would be better? For sure not, but maybe, so long as she’s got hope, there is always a chance for a better future.

It was hard to fall asleep. When she did fall asleep, she was awake again, it was getting annoying.

At some point, she heard an odd sound and then noticed the door opening.

That was it, her punishment was coming.

It wasn't the punishment though, but it was Ivar himself, crawling into her room. In the first moment, it took her off guard that she almost fell off her bed.

Ivar crawled to her bed, and using his strong arms, he got on it. “Why are you not sleeping?”

"Because someone is crawling into my bed like a snake?” She asked, frowning. "What is it? Did you come here to stab me? Or maybe to strangle me?"

He frowned a little as his hand travelled through his thick hair. “None of these. I came to you because I have rethought my previous outbursts and I have wanted to tell her that I don’t mind you being a girl and speaking your mind but you should rather think twice before you pass judgement.”

The girl listened to him and raised an eyebrow. "Oh, you don’t mind me being a girl? Oh, thanks Gods because I was scared my soon-to-be husband prefers men," she rolled her eyes.

He cocked his brow, looking at her with pity. “Can you quit being so offended? Believe me, you’re not the only one hurt in this situation.”

Ivar looked at her with his steel-blue eyes. “And if you keep on with being so negative, I can assure you it is not going to work. I like tough girls.”

She blinked surprised by his words. "Me offended? You didn't even come to greet me and once she did, she insulted me, for no reason. I think I have the right to be offended or negative."

“Whatever you say,” Ivar replied and simply reached his hand out to put it to her cheek. “You know, you’re very pretty.”

The girl growled quickly. Honestly, she wanted to bite him in the hand but the kind word surprised her. Smiling a little, she nodded. "Thank you.."

“Would she remind me of her name? I’m afraid that in this entire mess I have lost it somehow.”

"You haven't even heard it once," she reminded him with a smile. "My name is Freya."

Ivar nodded, acknowledging your name. “Suits you very well. You’re the only woman who is more beautiful than the goddess herself.”

She couldn't help but laugh at his words. As nice as they were, it was silly of him to think she was more beautiful than Freya. "Ivar. I wish to be more beautiful than the goddess herself but I am not that beautiful. But…," Freya hummed and gently touched his cheek. "I can honestly say, you are handsome. You have beautiful eyes."

Ivar’s blushing was a kind of flowering, the sort of pink that brings champagne roses to the imagination. The colour-infused cheeks dimpled with the blossoming smile and his steel eyes shone in a way that only deep happiness can bring. “Þakka,” Ivar replied shortly, his eyes never left hers.

Freya giggled and gently caressed his cheek. "Maybe... Would you like to stay here? Talk a little or just get used to each other?” She suggested with a little shrug.

He considered her offer for a long moment, looking up at the ceiling. He knew he had never been good in conversations, especially with women but since the girl was about to become his wife one day, he decided to agree. “If you don’t mind.”

Freya nodded and moved the thick fur aside, letting him join. Once he did, the girl smiled and wrapped the fur around him.

“Thanks,” Ivar replied, laying down on his back. He tried to avoid her glance so he glared up at the ceiling.

She took a deep breath and got comfortable next to him, also looking at the ceiling. "So... Soon we will spend every night like this. Together."

“Apparently,” Ivar replied quietly.

"I never wanted to do this…,” she said quietly. "My father told me about the wedding on our way here. I wanted to run away."

“I bet it would have been even more awful when you realised your future husband is a cripple. It can be seen, today, that your misgivings were justified,” he raised corners of his lips in a sad grin. “Don’t worry, you’re not the first one. Most people here are either afraid of me or take me for a freak.”

"I... I didn't mean to, Ivar. Just…," Freya sighed and shook her head. "Forgive me. I was just scared and surprised. I was brought here without my consent. You may not care because after the wedding you will probably just take care of your stuff. I will be here alone. I am still scared."

He grunted deeply in acknowledgment. “I have nothing to forgive, it’s natural to be afraid of things we do not know,” Ivar slipped a hand under his head to find a more comfortable position. “I understand your concern. But from the moment you were brought here, you’ve gained some new family members. As I saw, you connected well with Ubbe already,” Ivar added nonchalantly. “Don’t be scared. I am aware I have made a very bad first impression though… And I’m sorry for that. It was not my intention to scare you or treat you the way I did, but just as you, I have my concerns, as well.”

He let out a deep sigh. “Once I was told that a real king treats his woman like a queen, one who makes her a "peasant" is a poor imitation of a man. I certainly want to be the first one.”

"Whoever said it was a very smart person and Ubbe… He is nice but that's all," the girl nodded and looked at him. "What concerns do you have?”

“I tend to let people down, not to mention everyone hates me,” Ivar replied openly but frowned shortly after. “I have no idea why I am even speaking about this. “I’m full of rage, you need to be aware of that though,” the man added quickly. “Never be afraid of the rage that is fire, for my fire burns hot and dies very fast. After such an inferno you will be able to walk over the cold ashes to my side and I will be nothing but cooling water for your soul. Should you ever find my rage cold, a frozen fury that burns. So, my dear Freya, be schooled by the flame so that you never know the torment of the ice…”

Freya watched him while listening to his every word carefully. Was she scared? Maybe a little but she could be difficult sometimes too. So maybe they did have something in common, after all.

The girl slowly moved her hand under the furs and then she took his palm gently.

Her action made him turn his head to face her beautiful face. His eyes glistened with little sparkles of reconciliation.

"Let's... Let's just make it work…," she requested quietly. "It's already set in stone for us by our parents. Even if you will never love me…. Let's try at least...," Freya whispered. "Maybe something will change one day. What do you think?”

The switch from reaction to reflection, to arrive at a good response, was signalled by the deep sigh Ivar let through his parted lips. “The only thing that stands between true love and debacle is our capacities for empathy and creative perspective taking,” Ivar replied. “As long as you want to put all of you in this, I’m going to do the very same. I can't guarantee it'll work though but there’s no way to know for sure without trying, right?”

Freya nodded, squeezing his hands. "I promise to put all of me into this, it's not like I have anything else left."

Ivar nodded slowly. "Good. I think we have a deal."

She couldn't help but giggle. "We do. And let's hope it will work just as we want it to work."

Technologically Challenged

Woderful @charted-uncharted​ Gave me idea about Sam having some problems with the new world after being pulled out from the prison.

I hope you like it, friend!

BIG THANKS to my best girl @martakasravi​ for playing the reader ♥

Sam didn’t like fact that Rafe pulled him out from the prison. It’s not that he didn’t want to be free, but he knew that Adler basically meant a huge troubles.

Drake walked out trough the main gate and saw Adler with some woman, Sam wasn’t sure what to think about this all.

“Ah! Look at that, Y/N. The Avery expert. Sam Drake, in flesh. Alive and well,” Rafe said with nasty smile of his, placing hand on Sam’s shoulder. “I hope they treated you well?”

Keep reading

Bringing the Christmas Spirit Back || Heartman x Reader

Summary: When the Christmas spirit is long gone for humanity, Heartman tries to restore it.

Warnings: none    

Words: 2711

Authors: Cass & Bear

Yawning loudly you walked out to the main room of Heartman's lab.

You didn't expect anything to be different because why would it be?

To your own surprise there was a big christmas tree in the middle of the room, it was made of plastic. "Uhm... What is that?," You asked, walking closer to inspect the colorful baubles and other decorations.

 “Well, now that you're awake, I have to tell you that we ran out of earl gray,” Heartman stepped into the room, almost jumping off four little stairs. “Hi, gorgeous,” he placed a brief kiss on your cheek and stood right next to the christma tree. “I’ve printed it with a 3D printer, what do you think?,” He asked, being obviously proud of himself. “I thought that we could have restored some of the old traditions. That we could have brought some of the Christmas spirit, to gain some kind of mood improvement.”

 "I forgot you don't sleep with me in bed. You have a lot of time to do these things," you said with a smile and rubbed your eyes, trying your best to wipe the sleep off them. "It's a good idea but I don't think it will ever be the same, and about the tea, I will check later what else we need, and then I will do a bigger order."

 “Sam won’t be happy,” Heartman let out a proper laugh. “It’s going to be our… Fourteenth order over the past two weeks,” He took his glasses off to wipe them using a kerchief he held in his back pocket.

 "The fifteenth order, sweetie. I checked the records last evening before the bed. I have no idea what you ordered behind my back but I know you did," you sighed, tapping his shoulder. "Let's hope they will send some other poor soul and not our Sam."

 “Well, actually, I wouldn’t mind them sending Sam, I have a few questions for him,” Heartman put his glasses back on. “Now, you look much better than the second before when your figure was blurry,” he sent you a grin and in the same moment his AED beeped a few times. “Ah, shit. We’ll continue our deep conversation in 3 minutes, okay? Meantime, be a good girl and make me a strong coffee, and don’t forget I like it bitter.”

 You giggled and nodded. "Okay, I will also make some breakfast while in the kitchen."

After kissing his cheek you went to the bedroom to quickly grab your glasses before heading to the kitchen. Then you started preparing the hot drinks.

 After exactly 3 minutes, Heartman’s AED brought him back to life with a strong, electric impulse. It took him a few seconds to gain his thoughts. “I hate this,” he muttered to himself and before he got up from the cot, he had written some things in his online journal, using his fingers to do so.

 At that point you were putting plates with breakfast onto the table. Toasts for both of you, coffee for him, and green tea for you.

Letting out a quiet sigh, you started looking through all the cabinets and shelves. "I think I have everything," you muttered to yourself.

 Heartman walked into the little dining room shortly after, he instantly took his seat. “Thanks,” he sent you a smile and started eating. “What are you looking for? Tell me, and I’ll tell you where you’ll be able to find it.”

 "No, no. It's okay, I already know what I need," you informed him and quickly took your seat right in front of him. "You really want to bring back a bit of the Christmas spirit to these dark days, huh?"

 "Yes, whenever possible," he replied and took a bite of his toast. He chewed and sipped on his coffee. "Yeah, that's what I needed."

 "Glad you liked it," you smiled at him, taking a sip of your tea.

After break Heartman returned to his work. Meantime, you checked and listed all the stuff you needed before placing an order with a little message for Sam.

After making sure your beloved man was busy with work, you quickly returned to the kitchen, locking the door. "Let's see if I still remember how to do this."

Maybe it was a silly idea but since Heartman wanted to bring back Christmas, it was worth a shot.

An hour and a half had passed and you finally left the kitchen. Of course he didn't notice you weren't around for the longer moment.

"Sweetie. I have something for you!"

 There was no response from Heartman.

He was dead, again.

The chiral matter in his hourglass almost filled the bottom part which meant he was about to get back within the blink of an eye.

 Sighing, you took a seat on the leather couch, waiting for him to return.

 Another electric impulse made its way through Heartman's body, and the man jerked in his place regaining consciousness. "Y/N, did you say something?"

 You nodded. "I called you but I was a bit too late to catch you. Glad to see you back, come here. I have a Christmas gift for you."

 "A Christmas gift? For me?," He blinked and didn't even try to hide his consternation as he got up. "I didn't expect anything like this but I won't lie, I can't wait to see what you got for me!"

 You laughed. "Be a good man and open your mouth, eyes closed," you hummed with a smile. It was a little revenge for some test you had to do for him in the past.

 At first he blinked hearing your command. Then, he laughed loudly. "I'm sorry, sweetie, but as much as I love you, I don't hold an ounce of confidence in your actions," he joked, referring to that one particular time when you asked him to obey your words only to prank him.

 You rolled your eyes. "Trust me this one time. You won't regret it, I swear on the bond between us," you said, placing your hand over your heart.

 "I'm Heartman and my heart is already skipping a beat out of fear of what you've planned," he smirked but closed his eyes and parted his lips slightly. "I just want to warn you that if you'll try to feed me with chiral matter cookies, you'll regret the day you were born."

 You sighed and put a regular chocolate chip cookie between his lips. "Here. I hope I didn't burn them... And that they are good. I can't remember when I baked these for the last time."

 He chewed and then issued an opinion. "I like the flavour, the cookie was not too sweet yet not too bitter, too. You've added a perfectly measured amount of cocoa, the cookie had a tempting smell, too," Heartman stated. "I only lack some tiny ounce of ginger and honey but I know that it's extremely hard to get those."

 You looked at him, listening to his every word. It wasn't exactly the opinion you expected. "But... Do you like it? Before this all happened I used to make them for Christmas."

 "Do I like it? I love it, Y/N," Heartman replied. "If not for the fact I'm on a forever diet to stay in shape, I'd eat a tone of these!"

 "Oh, in such a case the whole jar of cookies wasn't a great idea," you giggled, rubbing your hand awkwardly. "Sorry."

 He sent you a smile. "I knew you'll surprise me, honey. But before I'll die again today, let me take you somewhere. While you'd been sleeping, I prepared something small," he claimed and got up from the cot, offering you his shoulder.

 You blinked confused but nodded, taking his arm. "Shall I be worried?"

 Heartman didn't reply but took you out of his laboratory. "Put your coat on," he advised. “By my side you don’t have to be worried.”

 You nodded and put on your coat just like he advised you. Just to be safe you also slipped on your warm boots. "Okay. I am ready... I think."

 He put his long, black coat on as well and led you outside of his facility.

Heartman stopped with you on the threshold of his outpost, being still under awning. "There," he pointed on the left. "Do you see him?"

 You rubbed your eyes, trying to get used to the brightness of the snow. Frowning you looked in the direction he pointed. "Is it…? Wait! Is it a snowman?"

 "Yes, it is. I called it the Death Stranding Snowman. He looks like a regular one but, if you'll take a closer look, you can see he had the Odradek and backpack, just like porters do."

 You giggled and nodded. "I can see that and I love it. I bet that Sam will love it as soon as he sees it. I am glad we live in a place like this actually, the Death Stranding Snowman will be with us longer due to low temperature."

 "Correct. And, also," he pointed his index finger up, right above your heads.

A plastic mistletoe hung on a tiny string attached to awning. "Maybe we can just have a little sneaky kiss under this mistletoe? It’s a tradition, isn’t it though?"

 You looked up at the mistletoe and laughed shortly. "Oh, you really got prepared while I was sleeping, huh?," You asked with a cocky smile.

 "Less talking, more doing," he muffled your voice with his lips crushing on yours.

 You hummed and kissed him back, placing your hands against his chest.

After a moment you pulled away to catch your breath.

 "Mmmm, that was something, Y/N," Heartman let out a hum of appreciation as his left palm was placed to your cheek where he gently brushed his thumb over your skin. "Ah! Just look at that! Sam's faster than I expected!"

 In the distance you could spot a little cloud of snow rising into the air. Sam Porter Bridges was riding his bike right to your outpost.

 You blinked and looked at the cloud of snow, giggling. "Oh, yes, he is, I still wonder how he is riding this thing through all the snow," you tapped Heartman's chest. "I will go pack him some cookies for the road and you get inside before you run out of time."

 Heartman decided to wait for Sam to approach.

When the other man got off his motorcycle and took all the packages, Heartman waved at him, still standing at the threshold of his outpost. "Sam Bridges! It's good to see you!"

 Sam didn't reply, only nodded his head while climbing up the stairs. By his way he turned head aside and stopped, looking at the snowman. “Seriously?,” He questioned loudly enough for Heartman to hear. “Whose idea it was?”

 Soon you joined both men. "Hello Sam, it's good to see you," you said with a smile and looked at Heartman, frowning. "I think I told you to get inside, huh?"

 "Easy, Y/N, I put this little thing on mute," he patted his AED a few times. “Idea for the snowman was totally mine. I’m thinking about getting similar sculptures to other Bridges locations, not necessarily made of snow but rather printed in Chiral Printers. We should consider bringing Christmas spirit all over America.”

 Sam scoffed Heartman’s words. “It’s not feasible as not all cities are in the network.” Sam was glaring at him, then he moved his glance to you. "Another order, huh? Are you opening a canteen or something? How is it possible for two people to use all of the supplies in a week?"

 "You kidding me right? I am not going to drag you back inside," uou muttered, completely annoyed with Heartman’s weird habit of muting the AED, so you simply unmuted the device.

"And it stays like this, sweetie," you said and turned your attention back to Sam. "Trust me, Sam, I have no idea what he is doing when I am asleep but our supplies melts like snow in the sun. I am so sorry for the trouble."

 With cocked brows Sam observed you and your little outburst of anger towards Heartman. "Yeah," he summed the situation up. Next moment he simply gestured at you and Heartman to slide aside. "I need to deliver these," he pointed at packages on his back.

 "Oh! Yes, right! Go to the terminal and then bring stuff inside," you instructed him and looked at Heartman. "We will be there."

 Heartman got back inside and took his coat as soon as he crossed the threshold of his laboratory.

 Soon, Sam joined you. He cringed at the very beginning after stepping in, when he spotted stuffed BTs with Christmas hats on. "The fuck...," He grunted to himself.

 "Heartman wants to bring back the Christmas spirit. In some way at least," you said looking at Sam from the couch and pointed at the big christmas tree. "BT in christmas hats aren't the only decorations here."

 Sam stopped at the top of four little stairs. "Yeah. I thought that you're not this type of guy because just like you claimed, you’re being dead inside," he summed up and got downstairs, putting the packages aside.

 "Well, you can see how much one person can change," you summed up getting up from the couch to walk up to Sam. "Here, since it's Christmas time. I have a little gift for you, I hope you will like it," you smiled at him, giving him a little bag of cookies.

 At first he hesitated to accept the little bag with cookies but soon he took it. "Thank you, Y/N."

 Heartman was laying on his cot. "Was nice to see you again, Sam. Thank you for bringing us all of the necessary things so quickly. You're simply the best porter."

 Sam nodded and grunted something under his breath only to turn around and got up the little stairs. "If only all BTs would be that cute," he pointed at two stuffed creatures.

 You giggled and nodded. "If all BTs were like these ones, the  world wouldn't be that scary. Thank you so much for coming, Sam. Have a good trip."

Several minutes passed since the moment Sam left you. Heartman was getting ready for another cardiac arrest when his intercom bipped, so the man frowned a little. “Do we expect any guests, Y’N?”

 You looked at him with a frown and shook your head.

Of course you didn't expect any guests, it's not like the good, old times when people could just visit friends randomly. It was a bit more complicated these days. "No, I do not and even if I did, I would inform you. Did you invite anyone?"

 He shook his head for no and got up. Heartman left his lab and went to the glazed entrance where the terminal was located. “Y’N, it’s Sam, come over here!”

 You even didn't bother to pull on the coat and joined Heartman, wearing your regular clothes.

"Sam? Is everything okay?"

 "Yes!," Sam yelled from the distance. "I improved your snowman, Heartman!"

 Heartman looked at you, frowning. "What is he talking about?," He asked and opened the main door to step slightly outside. The timefall stopped so Heartman simply got out of the building. "Y/N, you need to see this!"

 You were completely confused about what was going on. You followed Heartman to look at the improved snowman.

 The snowman had now one hand made of some plastic garbage Heartman found in his laboratory when the other one was made of snow, with middle finger up in the air. Next to the snowman there was a line of text scrawled in the snow. Fuck Higgs and his terrorists!, the inscription stated. Heartman lifted his hand up and gave a thumb up to Sam. “100 likes for this piece of art, Sam!”

 You gave Sam a thumb down. "And minus 50 likes from me. I preferred the previous snowman," you said but giggled.

  “You have no idea about modern art, Y/N!,” Sam yelled back and got onto his vehicle to roll down the hill.

“What? I like this anti-Monaghan version,” Heartman shrugged and wrapped arm around your shoulders. “Let’s get back inside. There are some handmade cookies left.”