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Oneshots Multi-chapter Series

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Recent Work Inked Up | Josh Washington x Reader (18+)

Ancient Princess | The Witcher

Chapter 1. The Awakening

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Sulking along the path, Jaskier stumbles something he thought he'd never find.

Jaskier had been travelling alone for the past few months, he was unaware how far Oxenfurt actually was from Caingorn yet he was all to happy to leave it behind.

'If life could give me one blessing'

The memory still stung Jaskier, and he tried to cope the only way a bard knows how. At first his writing was sad, full of self pity and loneliness, until one day it shifted. Soon Jaksier's writing turned angry as it he realised; nothing was his fault. Geralt was the one who made the fucking wish to the Djinn, he was the one who thought the law of surprise was a good fucking idea. Who was he to blame Jaskier for his own stupid ideas.

He tried to put Geralt behind him but like an itch, the more he tried to ignore, the stronger the thoughts and memories returned. Somehow that emotionally constipated 'White Wolf' has burrowed his way deep into Jaskier's heart, not that he'd ever know.

So, as he spent his days repeating this vicious cycle of anger and misery he blindly followed the path, having lost his map days before. He didn't recognise where he was and the never ending forest didn't help his already poor sense of direction. He knew he was near the coast, the smell of sea salt lingered in the air around him. If he was by the coast, Jaskier thought, Then surely he was near at least a small fishing village. Maybe the locals will be welcoming enough. He walked for the next few hours hoping for any sign of civilisation and yet; the forest never ended. By the third hour Jaskier was half convinced he was walking in circles and ready to simply accept his fate of dying in the woods either from starvation or of whatever creatures lurked just as hungry as he was. However, Just as he was ready to give up his eyes caught something in the near distance.

A grand white marble arch, it stood tall over the path Jaskier was following, as he approached he noticed how it was covered from the top to the bottom in vines and leaves with bright coloured flowers growing in between. The path continued beyond this arch, leading towards a larger arch this time connected between two equally towering walls slightly hidden behind the bushes and trees of the forest. As Jaskier walked closer towards the second arch he was able to see what was beyond it; a city.

The city was larger, perhaps even larger than some of the continents major cities like Cintra. Furthermore, despite being at least a few centuries old this abandoned city showed no sign of damage to any of its marble buildings or sculptures. In fact the only indication of a long passage of time was the vast amount of vines and shrubbery that grown to cover majority of this city. Flowers had begun to grow between the cracks of the paths, creating a ethereal atmosphere to the entire city. Jaskier wandered around the city in awe, based on his previous studies he could deduce that this place was likely an ancient elven kingdom, but this confused him. Surely if this was in fact an elven kingdom especially of this size, the humans would have long since taken claim during their conquest of the continent. He was even further confused by the signs he saw, although he knew elder speech there were words inscribed that seemed completely alien to him. Perhaps this city predated even the elves.

As the sun began to set Jaskier had eventually made his way to the centre of the city, in which at the top of a tall staircase a grand castle stood tall above the entirety of the city. It was the most beautiful castle he had ever laid his eyes on. Similar the other structures of the city, the castle was made of pure white marble yet it had also been decorated with gold decals and several striking stain glass windows that displayed stunning landscapes and creatures unknown to Jaskier. Once he stepped inside he no less in awe, the marble floor was covered in beautiful dark blue rug that throughout every hallway of the castle. Artwork and Statues lined these hallways both also ingrained with small golden decals, Jaskier noticed several portraits which he presumed displayed the royal family and other aristocrats of the kingdom. Their ears in every painting were clearly elven, confirming Jaskier's theory of the cities origin.

The most breath-taking rooms, however were definitely the Entrance hall and Throne room.

The entrance hall had tall ceilings embellished with a stain glass dome as the roof supported by several engraved marble arches. There were two elegant marble staircases engraved with different depictions of animals and flowers. Like outside the vines had grown inside the castle as well and was wrapped around the bannister and draped down from the balconies on the higher floor.

Climbing the stairs towards the throne room, Jaskier continued to gaze in awe at paintings and tapestries that hung along the wall depicting ancient battles and scenes that were likely lost to history. He wondered if the library and the books within also remained intact, what lost knowledge was likely contained within those pages. Perhaps he could retell the stories one day through song.

The throne room was located in the centre of the castle and was a large expansive hall that echoed even the smallest of sound. Golden suits of armour lined the walls between the engraved marble columns that stretched from floor to ceiling. Banners that matched the dark blue rugs hung from arches and displayed a golden crest that appeared to be a stag with flowers hanging from its antlers. In the centre of the back wall, the throne was placed on a small platform that allowed whomever sat there to tower over those below them. It was made of pure gold and was cushioned with blue fabric. The golden frame had carvings of flowers and vines and several depictions of various woodland animals. Above the seat, on the throne's headboard was a detailed engraving of a stag's head with a stone in the centre of it forehead that reflected light and appeared to change colours.

There was a moment where Jaskier had a small temptation to take a seat on the throne, however he quickly removed the thought from his mind. If it was an elven city its final day could not have been a pretty sight and the people didn't need another human forced themselves on their throne.

Instead Jaskier made his way down from the throne room towards the servants quarters, he figured there would be a suitable bed he could spend at least spend the night on.

The servants quarters were also in impossibly well preserved condition, no rats scurried along the floor and there was of the cold chill that most servant quarters had. The kitchen was as beautiful as the rest of the castle, the counters made from the same white marble with flecks of gold mixed throughout the hard surface. Dried herbs and flowers hung across the ceilings ready to added whatever would be cooked. With increased curiosity, Jaskier opened a cupboard door to find a whole storage room filled with breads and vegetables in perfect condition. The preservation was still remarkable to Jaskier even after searching the entirety of this kingdom.

Soon Jaskier made his way out of the kitchen to find a long corridor aligned with several different doors that each led to a different room. Yet instead he chose to make his way further down the corridor where he spotted an ornate silver door, standing out amount the other plain wooden doors. It took around five minutes for Jaskier to reach the mysterious door at the end of the corridor, at which point he was able to fully appreciate its details. Engravings of flowers surrounding a single stag echoed that of the throne's own engraving. Gently, he pushed on the door and discovered it to be unlocked as it slowly creaked open. He made his way through the now open door to discover that behind it was some kind of mausoleum.

Unlike the rest of the elven kingdom this hidden mausoleum showed signs of erosion and aging. The once porcelain white marble had become a dull grey, and along the eastern wall the detailed etchings had become blurred and whatever image was once there could no longer be clearly seen.

In the centre of the room was a glass case, it was incredibly ornate with gold lining the edges of the box. The glass was almost crystal clear which allowed Jaskier to see exactly what was inside the case, shocking him greatly. Lying softly on a plush green cushion was a young elven girl. She was dressed in a simple white gown that draped against her figure, her brow hair had been carefully brushed free of any knots and imperfections and was braided in parts to delicately frame her soft features, and finally placed atop her head was small and delicate golden crown. Additionally across her most of her body except her face, were several white tattoos which appeared to join together as whole. Jaskier had never seen designs like this before and presumed it must have cultural significance for the ancient elves.

Despite this, what shocked Jaskier most all was, as he approached the case he noticed that her chest was rising and falling. Meaning she was still breathing; she was alive.

Jaskier continued to slowly approaches the glass case containing the mysterious young elf. As he reached closer and closer he felt compelled to reach his hand forward and touch the glass casing. When he placed his hand on the case he noticed his hand began feeling a rapid warmth that spread from his palm to throughout his body. When he look down he noticed that his hands had begun to glow, he tried to pull his hand away but found he couldn't.

Suddenly the glass case shattered around him, and after a moment the young elf's eyes opened.

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Doing Time | Criminal Minds

Chapter 3. Zitti E Buoni

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Hana sees the BAU’s plane for the first time and holy shit is it nice. See end note for translations. Chapter Title: Zitti E Buoni by Maneskin

It was three days before the BAU was assigned a new case, it would be Hana's first real case with the team. She'd woken up an hour before she had to leave, making sure she had plenty of time to get ready.

After she'd taken a morning shower, she dressed in a simple pair of black trousers paired with a deep velvet red shirt. Her makeup with light, but finished with a deep red lip.  She styled her hair up carefully before grabbing her "go-bag" as Hotcher had referred to it as.

As she step out her room she heard music playing from the Kitchen, and when she turned the corner she saw her roommate; Sasha.

"Morning Sasha!" Hana yelled over the music still playing from the flat's speaker.

"Hana!" Sasha turned towards her smiling brightly, "You're never normally up this early? Do you want breakfast I'm making omelettes."

"Although omelettes sound amazing right now, I've been called in for work." She stated indicating to bag on her shoulder.

"For a case?"

"Yes."

"Oh my god this is your first real case with the BAU, when you get back we are totally celebrating." Sasha cheered loudly before hugging Hana tightly.

"Sasha."

"Huh?"

"I think your omelette is burning."

"Oh shit!" She quickly raced back to the stove and made sure to flipped the omelette before too much damage was done, "What would I do without you?"

"Be charged for arson firstly," Hana quipped earning a playful glare from her roommate. "Anyway I gotta go."

She said her goodbyes and began to make her way out the door, before turning back to yell. "Oh and if you have Peter over make sure to use protection!" 

"I'm on the pill genius!" Sasha yelled back.

"Yeah but it's Peter!"

"Just go to work!" 

Hana smiled before opening the front door, "I'll see you later."

She quickly ran to catch the bus that would take her into work, the commute was thankfully a lot easier than it had been the past week and no creep was sat in the back seat staring at her like yesterday. Although Hana had been working at the BAU for the last week this was her first real case, as she'd spent most of her time with Tara as they both received run down training to work in the BAU.

To say she was a little nervous was a major understatement. While she knew she had the capacity to be a great asset to the team, she knew she had to prove it. So as she sat on the bus, she put on her headphones and played music as she focused on her breathing trying to bring her stress down. 

Eventually she arrived at work and quickly made her way into the elevator where she was met with the site of the BAU resident genius; Doctor Spencer Reid. They'd spoken a little over the last week but this was their first time alone.

As she glanced over she noticed the book he had clutched in his arms was in Russian, her eyes lit up in excitement.

"You can read Russian?" She questioned. 

Reid turned his head towards, not expecting that question. "Yes, well I felt like rereading Anna Karenina again but I much prefer the original Russian text. I think it really helps with a lot of the nuances, that a translation can sometimes miss." He explained rapidly to the point that Hana almost couldn't keep up, "Do you speak it too?"

Hana nodded slightly before adding, "My adoptive father spoke Russian."

"Oh yes you would've spoken it growing up." He turned his body towards now,"sorry, I forgot." 

"Thought you had an eidetic memory Doctor Reid?" She teased him slightly, also turning her body to face him.

"Ah well..." he stumbled over his words. "I was more focused on who your father was."

"Yeah, I suppose the whole mass murder thing tends to trumps everything else, huh?" She titled her head slightly.

Reid seemed shocked at her blunt reply, and responded with a simple shy smile. The two stood together for a few moments of silence before the elevator bell dinged and the doors opened to their floor. 

"Позвоните мне, если когда-нибудь захотите практиковать свои навыки русского языка." Hana stated in Russian while winking at him before moving out of the elevator and pushing open the glass doors. 

She placed her bag down by her desk before making her way to the conference room for the case briefing; there she found Morgan and Rossi sat the desk waiting for the rest of the team to arrive. 

"Morning Gentlemen," She greeted before taking the seat next to Morgan, "What's the case?" 

"Don't know yet babushka, still waiting on Hotch but apparently we're not doing the original case anymore." Morgan replied with smile. After she'd join the team and told them about her past, Morgan had begun to call her Babushka. She'd already explained what it meant to which he'd simply replied, "I know, but it's also the only Russian word I know." 

"Really?" She questioned, "Wonder what the case is then?"

In that moment, Tara and Reid made their way into the room, seemingly continuing their conversation. "A bizarre coincidence, right?" Tara had quipped to Spencer as she placed her cup of coffee down on the round table.

"What's a coincidence?" Rossi asked the conversation clearly peaking his interest. 

"Tara's mom went to the same elementary school as the Truck Stop strangler's mom."' Reid explained as he placed his cup of coffee down, before placing a second cup in front of Hana.

"Ok, that's a little creepy somehow." 

"Cool though." Hana added while shrugging her shoulders.

"Don't get comfortable. The plane's waiting for us." Hotch stated as he made his way into the conference room with Garcia following closely behind him.

"10 minutes ago there was a poison gas attack on a city link commuter bus in Los Angeles." Garcia began to explain, and Hana eyes widened in surprise, "10 confirmed dead so far."

"Do we know what it was?" Tara questioned.

"Hazmat just got on the scene."

"Chlorine gas was used recently in Syria." Morgan suggested as everyone gathered their things and began to make their way out the conference room.

"Maybe it's connected."

"It also reminds me of the attack on the Tokyo subway. Religious cult members carried plastic bags of sarin and punctured them with umbrella tips." Reid added as the followed behind Hotch. 

"That was 1995. It could be a 20th year anniversary event." Rossi suggested further. 

"We'll find out." Hotch sounded determined as he swung open the glass doors the team following closely behind. 

They made their way out to the plane, which Hana had yet to actually see. It was an impressive aircraft, and the interior surprised her. It actually looked incredibly comfy for something that was government funded. 

"Jesus! Does this Jet even come with an air hostess?" She exclaimed as she took a seat on the comfiest chair she'd ever sat on. 

Morgan laughed before replying, "Not unless you count pretty boy here." He patted Reid on the shoulder before taking his seat. Reid, in return swatted him away before taking the seat opposite Hana. 

He smiled at the newest agent before pulling out a completely different book from the one in the elevator, Hana was able to glance at the cover and noticed it was War and Peace, once more in the original Russian.

"Thought you were reading Anna Karenina?" She queried, causing the Doctor to lift his head to look at her. 

"Oh, I finished that this morning, brought this one for the flight. Just some light reading."

"Big book for some 'light reading'" she replied curling her figures to indicate quotations. "You a fast reader or something."

"We'll I can read 5 words a minute so... I guess so." He replied, rather humbly.

"Holy shit"

"What?" 

"You're fucking smart at fuck, Doctor Reid."

He laughed at her statement, his lips curled into a wide smile as he did so, Hana thought he was adorable.

"Okay let's discuss the case, get a rough profile going before we get there, I'm calling Garcia now." Hotch stated as he opened his laptop and the team gathered around the small screen. Eventually they were greeted by the sight of the lovable technical analyst. 

"Oh, crime-fighters, I just got confirmation from the L.A. field office that traces of sarin were found." Garcia opened with when Hotch gave her the go ahead. 

"Sarin is the most volatile nerve agent there is." Reid began to explain, “Symptoms are felt within seconds. Watery eyes, foaming at the nose and mouth, and convulsions, paralysis, and death within minutes."

Hana winced at the Doctor’s description, she’d been lucky to never come across Sarin in her past line of work. 

"The last known use of sarin was two years ago in Syria, near Damascus." Tara suggested to the group.

"We've had recent threats of terrorism targeting major U.S. cities." Morgan also added building off what Tara had mentioned.

"The religious cult responsible for the Tokyo subway attack 20 years ago is also still active." Rossi proposed as an alternative profile.

"Very much so, but they've split into two branches with different names." Reid spoke rapidly, while still expressing his point clearly, “There's over 2,100 members and 4 of them are in Southern California."

"Where's the leader?" Morgan asked.

"Shoko Asahara's on death row in Japan. He's incoherent and confined to a wheelchair."

"So he's not calling any shots." Rossi quipped in response. 

“That’s putting nicely.” Hana stated quietly earning a bemused look from Reid; the only one who heard her. 

"No, but that doesn't rule out devout followers doing it in his name." Hotch had responded to Rossi, as the team continued the discussion. 

"Garcia, what do you know about the casualties?"

"Aside from the I.D.s, not much."

"Well, it's 6 men and 4 women, age range 20 to 60." 

"Victimology seems to be pretty random." 

"Here's the thing-- sarin evaporates quickly, it's hard to control, and would thus be very difficult to target an individual."

"Collateral damage may mask the real target." 

“They must have had a vantage view of bus to make sure the right victim was on board.” The youngest agent added, internally proud for contributing to the discussion. 

It was almost intimidating how well they bounced ideas of each other to make a brief profile. Even Tara had managed to keep up with them and she was just as new and Hana. 

"Garcia, look into the victims and also anyone online claiming responsibility."

"Aye aye, captain." Garcia responded before terminating the video call.

With the call ended the team took their seats and prepared for the case. Hana took her seat facing Spencer Reid once again, sighing softly to her self. 

"How are you feeling?” The young doctor suddenly asked her, “I was nervous on my first case.”

“Yeah I feel one second away from screaming. I mean chemical attacks aren’t exactly my forte.” Hana replied followed by a set of giggles mostly brought on by her nerves. Yet, rather than look at her strangely, Spencer began to laugh with her. She felt comfortable enough to keep laughing. 

Russian: Call me if you ever want to practice your Russian language skills

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Doing Time | Criminal Minds

Chapter 1. Looking at me

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In which Hana goes to a job interview at the FBI which is 'totally' where an ex Assassin should work. Chapter Title: Looking at Me by Sabrina Carpenter

Hana first day was as uneventful as one could be as a BAU candidate, she'd exited the lift to what she hoped was the correct floor and approached the front desk. She was clutching the strap of her small black bag tightly in her hand.

"Hey, is this the BAU?" She asked the young woman at the front who was likely around her age.

"No this is Baskin Robbins how can I help you today" she replied not looking up from her phone. 

"Well can you either get me a ice cream or point me in the right direction otherwise I can go elsewhere"

She look up at her for the first time seemingly impressed someone had actually played along with her. "Not bad, we'll get along just nice. Oh and don't worry you're in the right place. Just through those doors" she pointed towards the glass doors just to the right of the main desk. 

"Perfect thank you so much..." 

"Gerry"

"Thank you Gerry, I'm Hana"

"Have a good day Hana" she smiled, waving her off before glancing back down to her phone. 

Hana moved away from the front desk and entered through the glass a look around the large bullpen. There were at least ten main desk scattered around the room, and on the higher platform section there were seemingly three rooms. Hana presumed these were the rooms for the section chief, supervisor and of course the conference room. 

As she was looking around Hana was soon approached by a tall man who was well dressed in a simple smart suit, his badge on display showed the named A. Hotchner; Unit chief. 

"Can I help you?"

"Are you SSA Hotchner?"

"I am, and you are?"

"Oh okay, well I'm Hana Fedorov one of the new candidates ... I got an email saying I have a interview today"

"Of course thank you for coming, but I must let you know that we're currently on a case so it may be a long interview process."

"Not to worry sir, I'm known for my patience." Hana replied to the imposing man. Aaron was younger then she'd pictured, but was definitely someone of authority. He had a simple but smart haircut alongside a clean shaven face, and his wardrobe were all clearly a way to subconsciously make others know he was in control.

She subconsciously shook her head in order to stop herself from profiling further, she'd heard rumours in the academy about how the BAU wasn't all that fond on profiling their team mates; especially their bosses.

"So erm where should I wait?" 

"Just outside are some seats, the other candidates should be there as-well" Hotchner said before pointing towards the glass entrance doors. 

"Ok, thanks" she smiled brightly at the tall man before making her way out the doors he had pointed to. She immediately saw the line of candidates either sat or standing down the hallway, and as much as she'd deny it; Hana was a little intimidated. These people were older than she was by a significant amount in terms of experience both in life and on the field. In reality she had just as much experience too but she couldn't tell anyone what that experience is let alone the FBI. 

Taking a deep breath as her father taught her, she stepped down the hallway and found a spare seat next to another woman. She took another deep breath, once she sat and placed her bag down in front of her legs. 

"Nervous?" The woman next to her asked, causing Hana to turn towards her before answering.

"Just a little, I think I'm youngest one here..." She joked as she scanned.

"I'm just glad I'm not the oldest",at this both women turned to look at each other smiling softly, before falling into quiet laughs. "I'm Tara by the way"

"Nice to meet you, I'm Hana"

"Hmm both double a, sounds like fate"

"Maybe I'm not a huge believer in that"

"Well either way, I should get your number in case we never see each other after this. You seem a lot of fun"

"I'd like that", It was shame the BAU was one looking for one spot, it would've been nice for Hana and Tara to be teammates.

At that moment, Agent Hotchner came back out from the bullpen and approached the group again. "Can I have everyone's attention, please." 

Everyone, including Hana and Tara, promptly turned their full attention towards the imposing figure stood by the glass doors.

"The BAU is working an active case, so this interview process may take some time." He explained before continuing,  "Does anyone need to return to their field office?"

After that majority of the group either shook their head or verbally responded no. Pleased with this response Hotchner turned towards Tara, "Good. Dr. Lewis, we'll start with you."

At this Tara quickly stood before she responded a simple "Absolutely." and moved to follow him through the glass doors, but not before turning back to Hana and waving bye. 

After Tara left spent the next thirty minutes in the same seat reading through her past few messages on her phone. Most were from either her phone provider or random promotional offers that she opted to ignore. The one that she focused on was a message from a unknown number, likely from a burner phone. It simply read 'Been missing the Black Lion, are you ever coming back to play?' and Hana knew exactly who it had come from.

She had no intention of returning to her past she hadn't done a job since she was 17 and that was almost 8 years ago. After she'd been brought in and given a second chance, how could she throw it all away for people she hadn't seen in years. Also, those were the worst fucking years of her life. So fuck that.

With a sigh, Hana made the decision to quickly block the number and close her messages. Opting instead to play one of the random games she had on her phone, it wasn't very productive but it would at least pass the time and relax her.

Eventually she saw Tara come back through and make her way back over. "Hey!"

"Hey, how it go?"

"I think it went well. He said I had a good amount of experience"

Fuck. 

"Oh really? That's sounds good"

There's no way Hana was getting this job.

"Yeah but who knows I was the first one interviewed anything can happen." She smiled softly at Hana. It was clear she was doing this to make her feel better but Hana knew that Tara was incredibly happy with how her interview went. 

"Agent Fedorov" She quickly moved her head towards Hotchner at the end of the hall who had called her name. "You're next, if you'd just follow me"

"Okay... sure" Hana stood to follow him making sure she didn't leave anything behind. As she walked through the bullpen she noticed it was full of activity with people moving between the desks and speaking rapidly to each other. Whatever case the BAU were on was high profile that much was clear.

When Hotchner approached the door to his office he held the door open for her. As she stepped in first she couldn't help but analyse the room and in turn the man was interviewing her. The office was incredibly well kept and clearly belonged to someone in control, but there was also a single frame on the desk that although facing away from her, was clearly some form of family photo so he wasn't a complete robot. 

"You can take a seat" He began as he took his own seat behind the desk. Once Hana a took one of the chairs opposite he continued, "I must say first of all you're not like the other candidates we have lined up" 

"Young?"

"Yes but also, your past history is curious" He flipped open a file that was on his desk. "It seems there's no record of you before age 17. Why is that?" 

Hana wondered if this how suspects felt in the interrogation room. "I was living in Russia for the first 16 years of my life, I was taken to the US after escaping a pretty bad situation." 

"Do you have any records of your time Russia?"

"My father was off the grid, he hated the government so he refused to be on record" She let out a sigh before continuing, "It also meant he didn't want me on record. I mean I was homeschooled for most of my life" 

"Well considering I must say I'm impressed by what you've achieved since." He flipped to another page as he continued, "You graduated at the top of your class at the academy and is currently one of our youngest agents active in the field" 

"I was told to aim for greatness" 

"Well with these credentials you could go on to do great things, so why join the BAU?" 

Hana clenched her fists tightly as she thought of an answer, "I've seen a lot of bad things happen so I'm not ignorant to the type of people you guys deal with, and I wanna help be the reason those types are put away for good" 

"You think you have what it takes? This job can be hard for most, let alone someone fresh from the academy"

"I know I do." She steeled her face making sure to show how serious she was, she could see that he was watching her carefully trying form some type of profile. 

Yet before he could continue someone knocks on the door before entering. "We're ready to deliver the profile" 

"Thanks, We'll be right there Rossi" Agent Rossi nodded before heading back out into the bullpen. "I want you to hear the profile too, all the candidates actually"

"Okay" Hana stood and followed Hotchner out into the main bullpen where she could all the other candidates crowded round the BAU as they stood waiting for the pair to join them. After spotting Tara in the crowd, Hana quickly made her way over and stood next to her. As she found her place Agent Morgan began the briefing 

"The unsub that we're looking for is a contract killer who is doubling back to kill his former customers." 

Fuck.

"This man is highly skilled and well-trained." continued Morgan "Under no circumstances should he be engaged without back-up."

"So is this a case of organised crime tying up loose ends?" Tara questioned bringing Hana's attention back to the room instead of the ringing in her ear.

"Organised crime's got nothing to do with this, 

At least not in the traditional sense. " Agent Rossi answered before Dr Reid continued. 

"In 2013, the bureau took down the silk road network " Hana had heard of this, the dark web was almost unusable during those months. Most people like her had to kick it old school. "Our initial assumption was that it was an encrypted online market for illegal drugs, which it was, but upon further inspection, we were stunned at the breadth of goods and services being traded online. Weapons, child porn, even hit men." 

Hotchner then chimed in, "And the payment scheme was escrow based, in which the buyer would put down half as a deposit and the other half when the seller delivered." 

By this point Hana was going through head of all her previous 'acquaintances', immediately striking off anyone she knew was either dead or incarcerated. 

"We've now confirmed that all 3 victims hired the unsub over the past year through a similar escrow system."

"So why is he killing his old clients?"

"Hit men don't leave a message unless you pay them to." Rossi answered quickly, "The exception is to leave a warning for customers or competitors."

"This unsub suffered some sort of injury to his jaw or voice, most likely as a result of something these customers did. The pulcinella mask is his statement on revenge and justice" Dr Reid continued once again, Hana was impressed with how rapid fire and precise these guys were giving this profile. 

"Betray the oath between customer and contractor and you pay the price. Now, normally a man with this kind of defect would attract attention." Reid continued to explain "The fact that he hasn't indicates that he has deep pockets and a network of resources at his disposal."

"Share this profile with your local divisions and with law enforcement." Hotch ended the briefing speaking directly to everyone in the room. "Search for escrow payments to match the unsub to his clients. One of those clients will be his next target."

At that everyone dispersed in various directions, while Hana followed quickly behind Hotchner as he made his way back to his office.

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Doing Time | Criminal Minds S.R

Chapter 5. Drunk-Dazed

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A night-out leads to unexpected but pleasurable results Chapter Title: Drunk-Dazed by Enhypen

It was just past nine at night when Hana arrived in front of the club the team had agreed to, stepping out the Uber as she double checked that she had all her things.

"You're sure they won't mind me crashing the BAU night-out?" Sasha chimed in as she also stepped out the Uber.

"Of course not, you're my roommate who's been stuck dealing with an asshole all week." Hana replied hooking arms with the blonde. "You deserve a night to let loose and forget him."

"Amen to that."

"Then let's get fucked." They both giggled as they made their way inside the club.

They showed their IDs to the bouncer at the door before making their way into the main bar area.

"Where are they?" Sasha asked as Hana stretched her head above the crowds and spotted the group at one of the booths that lined the walls.

"Found them!" She said before grabbing Sasha's hand and carefully guided her through the sea of bodies. Eventually they made it to the table. "Hey guys you look great!"

"Speak for yourself," JJ spoke up sipping the suspiciously purple cocktail in front of her. "You girls are looking hot tonight."

She was right each girl had dressed in their best outfits for a night in the city. Hana had opted for her traditional little red dress but had paired it with a pair of black leather thigh high boots and an equally black leather clutch swung over her shoulder. Her makeup consisted of her signature red lip and a dark smoky eye, she'd also chosen to keep her hair down and straight, letting it flow freely.

Sasha as always was the polar opposite, and had opted for a short baby pink corset dress and had chosen a pair of silver heels with straps that wrapped around her shins and calfs, she however hadn't brought a bag but Hana's had already offered to keep her stuff safe in the black clutch for her.

"JJ is right!" Penelope yelled clearly already intoxicated "I mean I'm unfortunately not into girls but if I was you two would be at the top of the list, like the very top."

"Thanks guys," Hana smiled brightly before winking at Penelope. "Oh and don't worry Penelope you'd be at the top of mine." Her eyes began to wander the club looking for the rest of the team.

"The boys are at the bar getting some drinks." JJ answered, peering at Hana with a twinkle in her eye. "Though you might wanna catch them so they get your orders."

Hana nodded before turning to her friend, “Sasha are you cool staying here while I get us some drinks.”

“Sure, you good getting four drinks by yourself?” Her friend asked as she slid into the booth.

“Yeah it’ll be fine I’m sure.”

With that she moved towards the bar where she spotted a mess of curly hair poking out through the crowd. Already a little buzzed from the three shots she had before going out she tapped his shoulder smiling widely as he turned to face her.

“You made it!” She shouted over the music, and she leaned in to hug him which he returned although clearly not expecting it. She was a hugger when tipsy.

“Hey! Yeah I figured I’d come since you invited me.” He explained before gently guiding her closer to the bar with his hand on her back.

“How long have you been here?”

“Long enough to finish my first drink.”

“You sure you’re okay being here I know you said you don’t really drink…” she trailed of as she leaned in close enough so he could hear her.

“Yeah don’t worry, I just don’t drink or go out very often but I can tonight.” He explained before gesturing to the bartender he was ready to order. She couldn’t hear what he ordered but he suddenly turned to her “What are you getting?”

“Oh I’m probably just gonna get a gin and tonic but I’ve also got to get Sasha two Pornstars.” She explained before seeing Spencer widen his eyes slightly, “Martinis I mean! Not the other type of… you know.”

He laughed at her panicked explanation before turning back to the bartender to finish his order and pay. Hana suddenly realised what he’d done and poked him in his side. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“Do what?” He replied feigning ignorance.

“You know what, I could have bought them myself.”

“I know.” He stated simply, Hana became aware that he hadn’t move his hand from her back. She also realised how good he look in the shirt and tie he was wearing, he’d only ditch the suit jacket from the outfit he was wearing earlier today.

The bartender placed the four drinks on the counter and Spencer casually reached out and took both his and Hana’s drinks, leaving her too easily carrying just the two for Sasha. She then followed him back through the crowd and back to the table, where the rest of the team were already back.

“Hey Guys!” She greeted, as she stepped into the booth with Spencer sliding in just after her. “I’m glad you could all make it.”

“Jack’s aunt is still watching him so I could spare a least a hour for a drink.” Hotch stated as his sipped his whiskey, he seemed to be sharing a bottle between him, Rossi and Morgan.

“Well you certainly dressed up Babushka” Morgan teased, “Planning to get lucky tonight?”

She laughed before replying, “Not really I just really like this dress but a bonus is, it helps me get free drinks.” She tried to hide how she glanced at Spencer slightly when she said, who seemed to be smirking before he lifting his drink up to sip.

“I’m just glad for a night off.” Tara chimed in to the conversation, “I just wish unsubs could do the same thing.”

“Amen to that.” Rossi lifted his glass to cheers, to which all the Team and Sasha joined in.

They continued to converse together as Hana sipped her drink through the straw, feeling her buzz getting stronger. She hadn’t even realised she’d started to lean on Spencer slightly. She continue to sip until her drink was empty, and turned towards Spencer who was blocking her exit of the booth.

“I’m gonna get another drink, do you want another?” She’d asked noticing his drink was pretty much empty.

“I’ll come with and we can order together.” He offered as he slid out from the booth before stepping back to let her out.

“Sure!” She smiled, and slid out to make her way through the crowd. Spencer made sure to keep his hand on her back to guide her through. As they approached the bartender saw them and went up to them.

“Hey you guys forgot your shots”

“Our what?” She’d asked confused.

“The martinis you ordered come with a free shot of Prosecco and since you ordered two you get two free shots.” He explained as he pour liquid into two shot glasses before placing on the bar in front of the pair. “But other than that what can I get you?”

They ordered their drinks and the bartender left to grab all the stuff to make it.

“So…” she trailed off, “You want a shot?“

He laughed at first before replying, “Well usually I’d say no but, might as well not waste a free gift.”

At that, Hana lifted both shot glasses and handed one to Spencer. “What should we toast to?”

The pair thought for a moment before, the young doctor turned towards her, grasping his glass.

“I know,” He started before lifting the glass towards her, “To a successful first case.”

She smiled and clinked her glass against his, “To a successful first case.” She tapped the bottom of her glass against the bar before she downed the glass and watched as Spencer did the same. The Prosecco wasn’t as strong as the shots vodka she’d taken before, but it still left her with a nice kick. Afterwards they made their way back to the group once again, carrying their second round of drinks.

The night continued as normal with the team exchanging stories and discussing future plans. After Hotch and Rossi left the night change from a group of friends having a few drinks, into a true night of letting loose and having fun. Truthfully, it all started when a tray of shots were delivered to the table.

“It’s from the owner,” the waiter had said as he delivered them, “She also told me to say and it quote, you need to get Sasha on the dance floor so she can meet a cute guy and forget about Paul.”

“His name is Peter.” Sasha yelled over the music slightly slurred, already on her fifth martini.

“She said you’d say so she tole me say that she doesn’t care.” With that he left the tray on the table and walk back to the bar. Leaving the table in stunned silence as they stared at the completely full tray; there was easily at least 30 shots there.

“Well I am definitely coming here again.” Garcia broke the silence, clapping her hands before grabbing two shots. Soon the whole table followed suit, each grabbing their own shots. They cheers together before downing each shot on the tray.

“I guess we gotta go dance now.” Sasha said as she jumped up grabbing Hana and Garcia’s hands to grabbed them to the dance floor, the others following close behind.

Hana doesn’t remember much from what happened in the dance floor, she remembers dancing with JJ after a guy had started getting too close to the blonde. She’d then said bye to her and Tara after she’d announce will was there to pick the two up. Once she went back to dancing she’d felt a presence behind her, Turning to find herself face to chest with Dr Spencer Reid. She looked up to look at his face and found him staring intensely at her.

“You okay?” He’d asked, moving his hand around her waist to steady her as she started swaying slightly.

“Yeah I’m okay,” she answered buzzed, “You’re eyes are really dark in this light.”

She reached her hands out to cup his cheeks and pulled him closer so she could admire her eyes up close.

“What are you doing?” He asked, his voice seemed huskier than normal.

“I don’t know.”

“Are you going to stop?”

“Maybe” She shrugged, “Do you want me to?”

“I don’t know.” His hand around her waist was gripping her tighter now, and he placed his other hand on Hana’s cheek.

Nervous, Hana bit her lower lip between her teeth but was stopped when Spencer place his thumb on her lower lip and pulled in out from between her teeth.

“You shouldn’t do that, the human teeth are strong enough to withstand 30,000 pounds, so it could definitely go through your lip.”

“Really?” She scrunched her nose as she giggled to herself, leaning close enough to feel his breath.

“Yeah” It came more like a breath, but Hana didn’t have much time to register it as she leaned into him. Placing her lips against his.

Kissing Spencer was like the rush of air you feel when resurface from under water, it felt like she was breathing for the first time. He tasted like a mix of the whiskey he’d been drinking and the sweetness of the various shorts he’d been coerced into drinking; it made her pull him closer. Hana felt as Spencer responded. He deepened the kiss by moving his hand on her cheek to her back of her neck and tightened slightly, causing her to gasp into the passionate kiss.

The gasped seemed to send a shock through the doctor’s system as he pulled away quickly from her lips. Not thinking clearly, Hana attempted to lean back towards him but was stopped as he pressed firmly into her with the hand still on her waist. He caught his breath before he could speak.

“I think we both too drunk right now and should probably call it a night.”

“You’re um…” She hesitated looking down, “You’re probably right.”

The pair finally separated so they could shepherd the rest of the group out the bar and into individual taxis or Uber’s making sure to all get home safe. Eventually, Hana and Sasha’s Uber had arrived. After helping her roommate into the car, she turned back to Spencer who was following Morgan into a separate Uber.

“I had a good night!” She yelled to him, causing him to look back over to her.

“Me too!” He called back over before stepping into the car. Hana finally stepped into her uber and as the driver started to driver home, she scream quietly into her hands.

They’d have to talk about the kiss eventually, just not now.

Prev Chapter // Next Chapter

When Snow Falls | F.O

Back to Masterlist | Next Chapter Chapter 1. The Opening Ball

Summery: Valeria is forced to attend the 73rd Hunger Games' Opening Ball, maybe a certain blue eyed victor will make her a little happier she came.

TW: Attempted SA, Threats, Referenced SA

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It was the beginning of the 73rd Hunger Games, which also meant that today was the annual opening ball held before the Reapings occur. The highest in Capitol society attended, as did many previous victors; and by requirement, so did Valeria Snow.

As she walked through the ballroom doors, she immediately felt out of depth. She didn't normally attend these events; as a result, she had no idea what to do at them. She wasn't interested in the gossip of the Capitol's upper class, and she had nothing in common with any in attendance.

For quite some time she stood to the side of the grand room, close to the corner. She observed those around her and noticed that despite their extreme dresses and makeup, none of them actually stood out. They all just blended together as a kaleidoscope of fabrics and powder.

As Valeria stood there, she remembered the words her father had spoken to her during her dress fitting.

"I want you to actually speak to people tonight," he'd said firmly, "It's about time you made friends with people of your own stature."

Except, despite being a member of such a high-born family, she never enjoyed the company of her peers. Growing up, she always hated the attention she got just from her name being read out in every class she ever took.

Now she was of age; however, the attention now came from men who wanted the fame that came from marrying into the Snow family. It was why she avoided these events like the plague; those types of people practically filled the entire room.

She glanced hopefully over at the victor's table, only for her expression to fall when she realised Wattson wasn't in attendance. Without him there, she wouldn't dare approach them; the last time she attempted to speak with the others, they'd been polite, but it was clear they didn't want her near them. Her surname likely drew them away, although she wouldn't be surprised if her grandfather had warned them to stay away.

"What's a girl dressed like that doing without a line of men?" She turned to see Cinna; he'd designed the dress she was wearing. The older stylist had been working closely with Valeria since she was eighteen, but she knew deep down his true desire was to style for the games, to be able to make a real statement.

He'd done a phenomenal job. She was dressed in an elegant peach ball gown with a sweetheart neckline and draping sleeves, but the most unique feature was the waterfall of pink and white roses that cascaded down from the bodice to the skirt.

"Cinna, oh, I am so glad to see you!" She embraced him, careful not to cause any damage to the dress. "I'm sorry; I'm just not great at these things."

"Oh, don't worry, darling; I know this isn't your kind of scene."

"You're right about that. God, how do people do this?"

Cinna simply laughed in response before whispering, "I guess some people are better at pretending than others are."

"You could say that again."

"If you ever want to escape, I'll cover for you; just don't hurt the dress," he whispered before winking and walking away.

Valeria smiled to herself as she watched Cinna stroll away to speak to a group of stylists that had gathered to inspect each attendee's dresses. She let out a sigh as her eyes continued to wander from the stylists around the room inspecting each group to find a fit somewhere. Her friends didn't go to these events, and her grandfather had told her that she couldn't just rely on those she already knew; he wanted her to make connections.

She took a breath before walking further into the ballroom and moving towards a small group of women, their bodies covered in bright fabrics, several even covered their faces in various equally vibrant masks. One of the women noticed her moving towards them and whispered to the others before standing straighter than a flagpole and turning towards Valeria.

"Oh my dear, it's so lovely you could join us tonight."

Valeria remembered the girl in her academy, Slykie Moss, or 'Killy', as her friends liked to call her. She spoke like she knew Valeria personally, yet they'd never so much as glanced at each other before. Nevertheless, she replied as politely as she could, "Oh, well, it's my pleasure. Whoever planned this has done a wonderful job. It's beautiful."

"Oh, Alicia planned it!" She exclaimed, reaching behind her to pull the girl with midnight black hair forward. "This is Alicia Crane; you may have heard of her. Her brother's the head gamemaker this year. Can you believe it?"

"It's definitely incredible for them. You must be very proud of your brother."

"Ah yes, he's the pride of the family now," Alicia stated with her chin raised in the air before leaning and whispering to the group. "Now I'm not supposed to say this, but he's got some positively nefarious tricks for this year's games."

Excited giggles spread through the group while Valeria simply smiled awkwardly. She never understood why, but she never got the same excitement from the games others in the Capitol did. At least not after becoming close to Wattson.

Wattson Stein was the victor of the 64th Hunger Games, and four years ago on Valeria's eighteenth birthday, she had saved his life. Feeling a sense of duty for the victor, Valeria checked on him almost every day for three months afterwards. They'd become close friends ever since, although only in secret.

Now every time she watched the games, she couldn't help but picture her friend's sixteen-year-old self taking each tribute's place. So young and thrust into a game of death and fear.

"Oh Valeria, my dear, you must tell me, are the rumours true? You're District Four's newest escort?" Ophelia asked, breaking Valeria from her thoughts.

"Um... yes, it's true." She replied, "I'm very excited; I've never had the chance to visit Four before."

A woman with neon green hair scrunched her face in disgust before speaking, "Eugh, I imagine it smells like nothing but fish."

"Oh goodness, yes," Sylkie agreed with her friend. "Plus, I've heard the sea air is absolutely terrible for your hair."

"Well, I'm not so bad," Valeria tried to advocate on District 4's behalf. "After all, Finnick Odair is from there."

"Are you ladies gossiping about me?" A voice from behind her called, causing her to turn around. There was Finnick, the 'Capitol Darling', in all his glory. His stylist had surprisingly dressed him this time; instead of something outrageously revealing, he wore a suit similar to that of other capital attendees. It was a dark blue with intricate silver embroidery of waves crashing against a rockside, and the buttons were in the shape of silver seashells.

Behind her she heard the women whisper rapidly to one another, followed swiftly by high-pitched giggles. Ignoring them, Valeria took the initiative, and after a deep breath, stepped forward and greeted the victor, "Hello, Finnick, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm-"

"Valeria Snow," he interrupted, "Believe me, I'm aware of who you are."

Stepping in front of Finnick's view, almost blocking Valeria entirely, Sylkie excitedly asked Finance, "Are you aware she's District 4's newest escort for this year?"

"Well, what an honour it will be to have the Capitol princess visit my district." Finnick replied, a smirk spreading widely across his face; he then stepped around Sylkie carefully so he was facing Valerie once more.

In that moment as her golden brown eyes connected with Finnick's own ocean blue, Valeira couldn't help but inhale sharply. She'd never been this close to District 4's youngest victor before, and he was certainly striking.

His sandy blonde hair had been left reasonably untouched, allowing for his soft curls to frame his lightly tanned face. If Valeria could describe him, it would be the ocean personified.

As she continued to take in his appearance, Valeria's eyes moved back to focus on his face, more specifically his expression. His left eyebrow was raised slightly in a way that showed he was expecting something. It was only then that she realised he had spoken to her again, and she hadn't heard a single thing he said.

"Sorry?" She asked, cursing the heat in her cheeks, and a blush spread across her face.

Finnick chuckled slightly at her before repeating himself, "I said you look very pretty this evening."

Valeria knew he was simply being polite and his usual flirtatious self, but she still uttered a simple "Thank you" and smiled brightly. She was happy someone thought she looked good, especially since it was Cinna that had styled her.

"I suppose it would be wrong to compliment a lady and not ask her to dance."

The blonde raised her head to look at him in surprise to find his hand outstretched towards her. "You want to dance with me?" She couldn't help but ask; after all, she and Finnick had attended many of the same parties, and never before had he so much as spoken to her.

"Well, we will be getting to know each other a lot over the next few months; it seems only right," Finnick reasoned before tilting his head in a teasing expression, "You do know how to dance, right?"

"Yes, of course I know how to dance."

"Good," he said before grabbing her hand and leading her to the centre of the room. "So long as you don't step on my feet, we'll be just fine."

Finnick placed his hand on the small of her back, pulling her closer to him. In turn, Valeria moved her hand upwards towards his shoulder. They began a slow and gentle waltz to music softly playing; they glided across the floor and between the other couples. Valeria found it difficult to look anywhere but at Finnick; they were close enough to feel the breath of the other on their skin.

"Are you really excited to see four?" Finnick said so after a few minutes of them dancing in silence.

Valeria narrowed her eyes in suspicion, "How long were you eavesdropping on the conversation?"

"Long enough," he responded simply before pulling away and raising his left arm to gently twirl her around. Valeria couldn't help but giggle as her hair swished around her face before Finnick pulled her close once more. "Now are you going to answer my question?"

"Well, I've never seen the sea or even a beach, at least not a real one."

Finnick laughed before speaking, "So you became my district's escort because you wanted to see the beach?"

"No!" Valeria exclaimed, "I just... actually, can you keep a secret?"

"Princess, that's exactly what I deal in."

"Really?" She leaned back slightly to look up at him more clearly. "Seems like a bad business model."

"You'd be surprised at how much secrets are worth." Finnick answered vaguely with an air of mystery, as if he knew more than even Valeria about the underbelly of the Capitol.

"Capitol has lots of those," she couldn't help but murmur under her breath.

"Huh," Finnick laughed.

"What?"

"You're just..." he paused as he thought on what to say, "not exactly what I expected."

Valeria hummed in response before looking directly in his eyes, "And what did you expect?"

"Well, I don't think I should really tell you the truth." Finnick, he responded after a long minute of thought; it was clear on his face that he was being genuine.

Leaning slightly closer, Valeria whispered into his ear, "I thought we were sharing secrets, Odair."

He winked before continuing, "You've yet to tell me this big secret of yours."

"Oh right, I became an escort becau-" Valeria was able to continue as she was suddenly pulled away from Finnick, only to be faced with a clearly angry Johanna.

"Just what the fuck do you think you are doing?" She refused to release Valeria's wrist, holding her in place.

"I'm sorry, we were just dancing..." She was confused; why was it such an issue to dance with Finnick? She'd seen him dance many times before at other events with several women.

"Don't play dumb with me; you know exactly what I'm talking about."

"Johanna, stop." Finnick began to step in to try to pull her away. "You know who she is; this is only going to end badly—"

"No Finnick, who she is, is exactly my problem." She was continuously glaring at the girl opposite her. "They're all the same."

While Johanna and Finnick continued their exchange, the latter now whispering harshly to the District 7 victor, Valeria looked around and realised that all eyes were on her. The women she had spoken to just minutes before were smirking at her embarrassment and had begun to whisper to each other. Another glance, and she found the other victors looking at her with the same hatred she saw in Johanna's eyes. She continued to look around as her breath slowly left her, as the sound began to fade out until there was only a dull buzzing.

This feeling was building and building, and it was only when she felt the tears begin to well that she suddenly moved into action. With a strength completely unknown to her, Valeria wrenched her hand from the victor's grasp and sprinted out the ballroom's door.

She ran from the ballroom, needing peace to think after the accusation from Johanna, the glares of the other tributes, and the whispers of the crowds. She still didn't understand what had occurred or even why.

She moved quickly to the other side of the manor she was in, finding a sitting room that was empty. She closed the door behind her before moving to the glass doors on the opposite side of the room; it led to one of the smaller balconies that looked out onto the manor's extravagant gardens. Despite being one of the most famous people attending tonight, she couldn't have been more alone as she leaned over the small balcony. No one would bother her here, and she was far enough from the ballroom that she could no longer hear the music.

God, she hated the Capitol; if she could, she'd move far away. As she stared into the night sky, the stars barely visible from the various lights throughout the Capitol, she thought of her childhood dream of moving from Panem to have a peaceful life for her and her siblings and never having to attend a ball like this again.

Behind her the door to the balcony creaked open, and Valeria quickly turned to see who it was; it was an older man, likely a friend of her father's. His bright pink hair was gelled back, and his equally pink moustache was finely groomed; the only thing out of place was the opened and half-empty bottle in his hand. He stumbled onto the balcony, squinting as he looked around; it didn't seem he had noticed she was there, and Valeria was planning to quickly move away until he suddenly locked his eyes onto her.

"Well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes? What is a fine lady like yourself doing so far from the party?"

"I'm sorry?" She exclaimed in disgust, Not only was this man drunk enough that Valeria could smell him from across the balcony, but he was clearly over double her age, possibly even older than her father.

"Oh, don't be like that, dear." He smiled widely before approaching her. "A girl dressed like that is asking for at least a little attention."

Whether he didn't recognise who she was or simply didn't care, this strange man made his intention very clear through that one sentence, and Valeria instantly felt a sense of fear wash over her. Trying to diffuse the situation, she simply smiled politely and responded, "Well, apologies, but it's not the kind of attention I think you're offering."

"Hmm, I like them feisty; please keep talking."

"Sorry, but I think someone is looking for me, so we're done here." Valeria tried to move around the man to exit the balcony, but he suddenly grabbed her arm and pushed her against the balcony rail.

"What do you think you're doing?" She tried to push him away, but he held her firmly in place.

"Now I wouldn't fight too hard if I were you." He moved his hand towards her neck to hold her in place, forcing her to look at him. "See, I was a peacekeeper back in my prime, and I've seen plenty of pretty girls like you out in the districts, so I know what to do when a pretty little thing puts up a fight."

"My grandfather is President Snow... Touch me and... you'll regret it..."

He just laughed into her face; the smell of alcohol was making her feel sick. His other hand was wrapped around her waist, squeezing her tightly. She couldn't breathe, and her mind was starting to shut down. There didn't seem to be a way out of this. As he leaned in to whisper in her ear, his hand on her neck was slowly moving down. "Don't worry; it won't hurt after a while."

He grabbed her dress by the front and pulled, ripping her bodice down the middle and revealing her undergarments. She never felt more naked as the cold air chilled her exposed body and tears streamed down her face. She moved her hand in front of her and tried to push him away, but he was stronger than she was and moved to restrain her arms. With her hands restrained behind her, she decided to close her eyes, afraid to see what would happen to her.

It was then Valeria felt a rush of air as the pressure against her body was pulled away from her; she heard a scuffle before she opened her eyes. It was Finnick who had pulled that man away from her and had seemingly knocked him out with the lamp he still held in his hand.

"Finnick?" She spoke in a hoarse voice, her throat still sore from being gripped so hard.

He turned to look at her before placing the lamp back down on the small table. He began to walk towards her but quickly stopped. "Are you okay?" He asked.

"H-how did you..." She began to question, looking back down at the pink-haired man now laid prone on the floor. "W-hat?"

"Valeria," he spoke firmly, making her eyes focus on him once again, "I need to know if you're okay."

"Yeah... I'm okay," Valeria responded, stunned hearing him say her name, "Thank you for... doing that."

"It's fine." They were both out of breath from the surge of adrenaline. Valeria quickly realised her chest was still exposed and moved her arms in front of her. Finnick slowly moved his way towards her.

"Do you want my jacket?" He had already taken it off and was holding it towards her. She took it from his grasp slowly before pushing her arms in and holding it tight to cover her chest.

"Thank you so much." She smiled at him softly before looking down at her dress, and her lips moved to frown.

"What's wrong?" He asked, concerned.

"He ruined Cinna's dress, and I thought it was so beautiful. What am I going to tell him?" Her voice was high-pitched, almost a whine, and she desperately tried to bring the fabric of her corset back together again.

For a moment Finnick was silent as a stunned expression crossed his face before it fell into a look of genuine kindness. "I'm sure he'll be more than understanding."

"You think?"

He smiled softly and nodded, "Yeah, I think so?"

Valeria smiled before looking to her left and seeing that man still unconscious on the floor; her anxiety began to creep up again, afraid that he may wake up suddenly.

"Do you want to come with me?" Finnick spoke up as if sensing her growing anxiety. Turning back to him, Valeria noticed he was watching her carefully.

"Where?" She sniffed out before wiping tears from her eyes.

He took another step closer, holding his hand out for her to take. "Just away from here, we can find another empty room to sit in."

"But you'll miss the party."

"Believe me, that'll be a blessing." He smiled softly at her, which she returned in kind. She took the hand that he held out towards her and allowed him to lead her out of the room.

They moved further down the hall until what they both agreed was a long enough distance and opened the door closest, which, luckily, led to an empty room. It was a simple sitting room similar to the one before, only this one didn't have any balcony attached. Two ornate sofas faced each other, which Finnick and Valeria chose to sit on. As they faced each other, they began to relax, and they sat contently in the other's presence.

"Why did..." She trailed off, thinking carefully about her question.

"Why did I help you?" Finnick finished her thought for her.

"Yes"

"I'm not a monster, Valeria," he muttered to her, "and you don't deserve that... no one does."

"Well, thank you; I think you probably saved my life."

"Don't mention it." He smiled softly before changing to a look of mock sternness. "Where were your guards, anyway?"

"My what?"

"Guards. Would've thought the president's precious grandchild would have some kind of protection."

"I requested not to have any tonight. I find it a bit suffocating, having someone breathing down your neck the whole night," Valeria responded before looking down in embarrassment, "Although I can see now that was a bad idea."

Finnick couldn't help but let out a sarcastic chuckle, "You might be right about that." And then his face suddenly grew serious, "Don't do that again."

Caught off guard by his intensity, Valeria struggled to form a sentence before blurting out, "Why do you care what I do?"

He seemed genuinely stunned by her impulsive question, as if he didn't understand why she asked it in the first place. Shaking his head, Finnick schooled his expression and shrugged, "You're better than Four's last escort; if anything happens to you, who knows who I'd be stuck with next?"

"Careful," she responded sarcastically, "someone might think you actually like me."

"Oh, we don't have to worry about that, Miss Snow." He replied equally as sarcastic as the blonde sitting in front of him.

"Just call me Valeria." She responded quickly, looking him dead in his bright blue eyes.

Instead of looking away from her intense eye contact, Finnick leant forward, bringing their faces closer together, his eyes never moving from hers. "Alright, Valeria, you can call me Finnick."

"I was already doing that."

"Well, now you have my permission." After he spoke, he smiled again, but it wasn't a bright smile like all the others he made that night; this was different. Valeria would even dare to think it seemed genuine.

It was that moment Valeria realised that the Finnick she knew was never real; like most things in the Capitol, it was perfectly crafted to appease a specific audience. She also realised that she liked the version of Finnick she was seeing; he seemed brighter. If she thought he shone on cameras before, he was like the sun now.

A few moments later the spell was broken when the doors to the room Finnick had hidden her away in slammed open. The Victor stood at the loud sound and instinctively moved so he stood in front of Valeria, who was still sitting on the couch, staring wide-eyed at the now open door.

"Where in God's name have you been?" The man said immediately as he stepped further into the room.

Breaking out of her shock, Valeria quickly stood from her seat and moved around Finnick. The Victor began to move again to block her movements, causing her to speak up, "It's fine, Finnick; this is Blaze, one of my family's bodyguards."

"You were told to stay inside the ballroom." Blaze began to rant at Valeria furiously, "How is it your younger siblings can follow instructions but you evidently can't?"

She spluttered slightly at his words, trying to figure out what to say before deciding to be defensive. "Are you allowed to speak to me that way?"

"I've known you since you were still in diapers and shuffling around on your butt; I've put up with your antics far too long to care about how I should speak to you." His face remained serious, but the left corner of his mouth twitched slightly, which was as close to a smile as Valeria would ever get.

"You make a good point." Valeria sighed, "Are we leaving now? Is that why you came for me?"

"Yeah, the car's waiting outside for us, and it's getting pretty late."

She turned to her left where Finnick was standing. "You need a lift home at all?"

"Oh" He seemed surprised at her offer, breaking his eye focus on analysing the stranger in front of him. "I'm alright, but thank you."

"Are you sure? I can ask them to stop by your apartment or wherever you're staying." She pressed further, feeling a sense of responsibility for the man who'd saved her less than an hour earlier.

Finnick smiled gratefully at her before nodding, "Yeah, don't worry; I have an appointment to go to anyway."

That made Valeria's eyebrows furrow in confusion. "It's almost ten o'clock; isn't that a bit late to have an appointment?"

Instead of answering her question, Finnick swallowed nervously as his expression darkened for a fraction of a second before softening again. "You should get home; you must be tired."

She tried to protest as Finnick stepped away from her, allowing for Blaze to grasp her arm and escort her out of the room. Turning back around as she crossed the doorway, her eyes focused on his own for as long as she could.

As Blaze led Valeria down the halls and into the sleek white car waiting in front of the front steps, her thoughts raced as she played back her entire interaction with Finnick, from their first dance to sitting next to each other in a small side room.

Back in that small side room, Finnick was still standing where Valeria had left him. It seemed that his mind was still catching up to what had just happened. Did he really just spend a night with President Snow's granddaughter?

Not only did he spend a night with her, but somehow within that one night Valeria had managed to shift his entire perception of her on its head. His mind then focused on her golden curls, how they gently fell from her shoulder in a waterfall, and how they faintly smelt of roses. In fact, Valeria smelt entirely of roses.

This time a knock on the door broke him from his thoughts, and he glanced up to find Alicia Crane leaning against it, looking at him with deep desire.

"I've been looking for you, Odair." She said in a sickly sultry tone, "You promised me a night of passion, so let's not waste any more time."

With a subtle resigned sigh, he plastered his trademark dazzling smile on and followed her out of the room.

Back outside, Valeria was fully settled in the car and was now staring out the window as it set off. Yet, even as they went separate ways, both knew that this night was the most memorable night they'd ever lived in the Capitol.

Ancient Princess | Masterlist

After the disaster at Caingorn Jaskier thought he was destined to be alone in the world. Until one day while wandering deep the forest just trying to make it home, he stumbles upon something he never expected. An ancient elven city. When he entered the city he’d didn’t think he come out of it with a young elven princess with a great destiny in tow. Perhaps he had more in common with Geralt than he thought. This was written before Blood Origin and Season 3 so expect canon divergence Playlist | Concept Board

Chapter 1. The Awakening

Chapter 2. Nim

Chapter 3. On The Road

Also read on: AO3 and Wattpad

Doing Time | Criminal Minds S.R

Chapter 7. Gossip

Back to Masterlist

In which Spencer gets roped into watching Twilight Chapter Title: Gossip by Maneskin

Hotch had forced her to go leave for two weeks after her shoulder injury, something she found completely unnecessary. She’s remembers how her protests fell on the deaf.

“I’m telling you sir I’m fine, it’s basically a surface wound.” She’d tried to downplay, hiding her wince when the stitchings pulled slightly.

“Federov it was a clean gun shot through your right shoulder, the EMTs said you were lucky I didn’t hit a major artery.”

“But-“ Hana began to argue before the unit chief cut her off.

“Go home and get some rest that’s an order.”

“Okay Dad.” She’d had meant to mutter it under her breath but it was still loud enough for Hotch to hear.

“Fedorov”

“Right sorry I’m leaving.” 

Now the young agent found herself lying on her apartment couch watching some trashy reality tv, while numb on pain medication. She was in the middle of laughing was an argument started between the main cast on screen when there was a knock on the door.

She grimaced as she slowly stood up and made her way over to the door and opened it find a familiar face.

“Lila!” She exclaimed to her friend, “What are you doing here?”

Her friend smiled brightly before stepping into the apartment holding a large bag. “I’m here to keep you company, what didn’t you tell me you got shot.”

“Im sorry I just didn’t want anyone to worry about me.” She answered as she moved back to the couch.

“You mean you didn’t want any pity?” Lila replied, leaving Hana speechless. “I know it’s how you were raised but you need to understand that it’s okay for you get help from people.”

“I know.” Hana begrudgingly accepted, “What did you bring?” 

“Well usually I’d bring drinks from the club but I don’t know what kinda meds they’ve got you on, so I hope you like herbal teas and shitty snacks.” 

“Aww what would I do without you?” Hana smiled brightly as she sat back down on the couch, “Oh and I forgot to say thank you for those shots the other night, the team was very happy.”

“Of course I always take care of my favourite patrons.” Lila said causing Hana to laugh as she shuffled to side to allow her friend to join her on the couch. 

The two friends sat next to each for most of the day, eating the snacks and had decided to binge a movie Lila had also told Hana to watch. She thought it was okay but was getting frustrated at the inaccuracy when it came to vampire mythology; causing a friendly debate between the pair. 

“You’re thinking about things too carefully!”

“No I’m not,” Hana argued back to her friend, “there’s not practical reason for vampires to sparkle, also why can they see their reflection. At this point they’re more like superhuman cannibals than vampires.”

“It’s a cheesy romance movie, it’s meant to be accurate.”

“Well why direct it so seriously.”

“Shut up and watch the movie.” Her friend responded, followed swiftly by her smacking Hana in the face with a couch cushion.

They watch the rest of the movie with minimal jibes from Hana about the inaccuracies, and were about the watch the second one until there was another knock on the door. The agent was about to rise from the couch but was swiftly stopped by Lila.

“Stop right there, you are injured and shouldn’t move, I’ll get the door.” She chastised as she walked towards the apartment door. 

“It’s my arm not my leg.” Hana responded, “I can move, I just hurts.”

“Yeah sure.” Hana’s friend laughed before swinging the door open. “Who are you?”

The man at the door seemed surprised to see Lila, he cleared his throat before answering, “Hi, I’m Doctor Spencer Reid with the BAU is Hana in?”

“She is.” Lila smirked before opening the door wider to let him in, “Hana you have a guest.”

“Who?” The dark brunette asked and lifting her head up to see who’s there; her smile instantly widened. “Spencer! What are you doing here?”

“I was sent to give some information,” he started, “but I also wanted to check on you.”

“Awww how sweet.” Lila spoke suggestively to her friend. In response Hana waved her hand to shoe her away to the kitchen, her friend put her hands up in surrender but still did as she’d asked.

Once her friend had left the room, she turned back to Spencer and gestured him to set next her on the couch. Surprisingly comfortable in an unfamiliar place, he walked in and swiftly took a seat next to the young agent.

“What do you need to tell me?” She’d asked once he was comfortable.

Spencer took a deep breath before continuing, “Giuseppe Montolo is dead.”

“What?”

“It was during Morgan’s interview today, he uh.” He stopped and swallowed hard, suddenly uncomfortable, causing Hana to reach out with her good hand.

“It’s okay you can tell me.” She soothed, unconsciously stroking his hand. 

Spencer nodded, “He started choking and died in the interview room, they think it was poison.”

“Did he mention anything useful beforehand?”

“Apparently the dirty dozen isn’t a group of people on a hit-list, it’s just one thing.”

She hummed in understanding, “But we don’t know what that thing is?”

“Yeah.” He answered, and hesitated again before continuing, “Do you know what it is?”

“No, it wasn’t a thing when I was active.”  

“Just thought I check.”

“Sorry I was a dead end.”, She joked.

At Hana’s word he straightened on the couch and turned his body to face her, “No, you’re not a dead end at all, I didn’t come to only get information from you. I figured you should be told in person, I mean you did know him.”

“Spencer it’s fine I was only joking.” She soothed him, stroking his hand against in small circles, “Do wanna stay and watch a weird vampire movie?”

“Actually, I’m on leave to for little bit,”

“Oh why?” She asked with minor head tilt.

“Well I’m flying to Vegas on Friday to visit my mom for the week.”

“Oh really? I’m sure she’ll be happy to see you.”

At Hana’s words Spencer seemed to withdraw slightly and had a small unsure smile on his face, “I hope so.”

“Why wouldn’t she be?” She then realised that question was probably a bit to personal and quickly backtracked with a quiet, “I mean if you feel comfortable tolling about it.”

“No, I mean I don’t mind,” He reassured before continuing, “My Mom has Schizophrenia and she currently in a care facility but the doctor’s say she’s not doing too well, so I’ve took a sabbatical for a few days to go see her.”

“Well that’s very good of you,” she smiled warmly at him, “and I know she doesn’t know me but send her my love when you go.”

“I’m sure she’ll appreciate it.” He laughed slightly before chasing the topic, “So what’s the movie called?”

“Well you’ve missed the first one but we’re gonna watch second one which is called…” Hana trailed off, she turned her head towards to shout at her friend, “Lila what’s this movie called?”

In response, Lila made her way back into the living room carrying two bowls of popcorn, “New Moon, is the good doctor joining us?” She asked winking at Hana.

Hana glared at her friend to stop her from speaking, Lila simply smirked back at Hana in teasing. She’d told all her friends about the drunken kiss that her and Spencer had shared, but she’d also sworn them to secrecy; especially when it came to Spencer.

The man himself spoke causing the two friends to look away from their silent conversation, “I hope you don’t mind, Hana asked if I wanted to stay and I’ve actually been given the day off.” 

“Yeah don’t worry it’s fine.” Lila replied as she sat down the armchair to let Hana and Spencer share the couch. “Have you ever seen Twilight?”

“Honestly no, although it has been recommended in the past so I know the general premise.’

Pleased with his answer Lila pressed play and the movie started. The three watched the movie quietly until they got a scene in the meadow where the main characters were lying in the sunlight, at this point Spencer spoke up.

“I thought he was vampire,” he began, “He shouldn’t be able to be in the sunlight.”

This caused Lila to groan, “Not you too, both of you just watch the movie.”

Spencer apologised quietly, and Hana shuffled closer to whisper in his ear. “Sorry about that Lila doesn’t like commentary with movies, if you want you can just tell me if you have something to say.”

And so as they watch the movie, she enjoyed how every now and then he leaned in to whisper a random fact. At one point he whispered a fact so unbelievable  Hana couldn’t help but laugh during a very serious scene, causing Lila to shush them as she watched the TV in interest. 

Each time Spencer would lean over Hana would shuffle just a little bit closer, but after doing this so many times, once the movie had finished and the third one had started Hana was casually leaning into Spencer’s arm that had wrapped around her shoulders.

She turned to Spencer suddenly aware of their close proximity, “You sure you’re good to stay so late?”

“Well it’s only four right now so, yeah I’m okay for another few hours.”

“Good” She smiled at him, before passing him the bowl of popcorn. In return, Spencer took a handful of popcorn from the bowl while smiling back at her. The pair turned back to the screen and chuckled softly as something funny happened in the movie. 

As the film continued, Hana felt her head grow heavy and out of reflex titled her head down so it rested on the good doctor’s shoulder, “Is this okay?”

Jerking slightly at her question, the doctor looked at her before replying, “Oh yeah, it’s okay.” He then relaxed further by fully wrapping his arm around her and pulling her sightly closer.

Hana stayed comfortably in the same position through the remaining movies left in the series, enjoying each time Spencer continuously whispered in her ear. Out the corner of her eye she noticed Lila glancing over towards the two and smirking before looking back at the T.V. Opting to simply ignore her friend’s teasing glances, she missed how every now and then Spencer would glance down at Hana to make sure she was still comfortable, smiling softly and then look back to the screen.

Hana also failed to notice that every time she laughed at something on screen, Spencer would follow suit with a fond chuckle. It was strange how close the pair had become despite only knowing each other for two months but they seemed to just click, and were already so comfortable with each other’s presence.

By the time they’d finished the entire movie series with small breaks in between, it was already half eleven at night and Hana was exhausted. Lila was packing up her stuff and heading to the door.

“Hey are you going to be okay by yourself tonight,” She’d asked her friend before she left, “I know Sasha’s out of town and I don’t think I’m comfortable leaving you alone.”

“I can stay if you want?” Spencer spoke up looking between the two women, causing Lila to smirk again. “Make sure you’re not in pain through the night?”

Hana stop still in surprise at how willing Spencer was to stay over for her; to make sure she was okay. “Yeah,” She spoke once she gotten over her shock, “You can stay as long as you want, I can see if I’ve got anything for you to wear.”

“If the good doctor’s staying then I’m gonna head out,” Lila moved to hug her friend, “Love you Hana and take care.”

“Thanks, Lila Love you too.” And with that she closed her apartment door behind her friend and turned back towards Spencer who was clearing the living room for her. 

“You have to do this you know?” She spoke up causing Spencer to turn to her.

“Do what?” 

“You know…” She paused before continuing, “Look after me, I’m not completely inept.”

“I know but you are injured,” He began “Just going to make sure you’re not in too much pain through the night.”

She was about to reply in thanks but she was cut off when a yawn was forced through her body, “God, I am so fucking tired.”

“Yeah? I can finish up if you want to go rest.”

“Thanks, but lemme grab something for you to wear.” With that she moved into her room, and opened to her bottom drawers where her most recent ex had left some lounge clothes. Pulling a set out she nodded in assurance that they should fit Spencer before gathering them in her arms and heading back out her room. While she found the living room empty she moved towards the kitchen where she found Spencer washing the glasses and bowl the three had used. 

“Hey,” She called to gain his attention, which she did when he turned towards her while still rinsing the last bowl. “I found some clothes you can use.”

“Really? Thanks.” He actually sounded appreciative when he took the small clothes pile.

“I do have another room but it’s my roommate’s and it be weird you sleeping there without me asking, would you be fine taking the couch, it’s pretty comfy.”

“Don’t worry I’m sure I’ll be fine, thank you though.” Spencer replied giving her a small smile.

“Well I’m gonna head to bed,” Hana spoke as she made her way to her room, “Goodnight and thanks  again.”

“Goodnight and you’re welcome.” She smiled widely at him before shutting her door, she then rushed to the bathroom and splashed cold water on herself. She need to get a hold of herself.

Prev Chapter // Next Chapter (WIP)

Taglist: @stillhere197

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‘Doing Time’ Incorrect Quotes

Spencer: Hana, why does your bucket list have ‘Die’ on it? 
Hana: So I can die feeling at least a little bit accomplished.

Chocolate Brownies | GN!Y/N x Josh Washington

Masterlist

After Y/N accidentally consumes some of Chris' *special* brownies, Josh is a sweetie and takes care of them through their first high. (WC: 3400)

Warnings: Weed usage, Accidently eating an edible, Alcohol, Horror movie, minor overstimulation A/N: I'm not super familiar with weed, apologies if it's not realistic.

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"Damn, I didn’t know Chris could bake.” Y/N spoke as they licked their fingers, finishing their second chocolate brownie. Sam half-listened as she was busy looking for a bottle opener in the lodge’s huge kitchen. “You should probably take a brownie before I eat them all.”

Sam froze as she realised what Y/N was talking about: “Are you eating the brownies Chris made?”

“Uh huh.” Y/N replied nonchalantly, reaching for another one, and stopped when Sam slapped their hand away. “Hey! What’s your problem?”

"Sweetie, those are Chris’ *special* brownies.”

Pause.

“You mean that these have-“ “Weed in them yes.” Sam interrupted them, reaching a hand out to feel her friend’s temperature. “You feel okay, sweetie?”

“Yeah… I think so... Is two brownies a lot?”

“For someone like you, probably.” Sam was right. Y/N hadn’t taken edibles before; they’d smoked it once, but that was a year ago, and they’d coughed it up immediately before stopping. “But it shouldn’t hit for another thirty minutes or so.”

"Okay,” they trailed off, “could I stay with you while you get sorted?”

“Of course.” Sam replied sweetly; she was like the big sister Y/N never had. They sat and watched as Sam finally found a bottle opener, laughing as their friend victoriously opened her bottle of beer. The two chilled in the kitchen for a while, until Y/N's head became fuzzy, but they didn’t mind; in fact, it felt nice.

Sam turned as her friend began quietly humming to themselves, “Has it hit it, you?” Her friend could only tilt their head and smile smugly, “I understand why you guys like this now.”

"Aww, sweetie, let me get you some water.” She stroked her friend's cheek before turning away to grab a bottle of water from the fridge.

“I think Josh would like these...” they spoke absentmindedly, swinging their legs as they sat on the kitchen counter. Y/N found it weird how their voice sounded; it had gotten slightly deeper as much as they tried, but it remained at a slow pace. “Where’s Josh?”

“He’s where we left him, Y/N, remember?” Her voice muffled as she reached into the fridge. “Do you want me to get him for you?”

"Oh, I don’t want to bother him.” Y/N felt a blush creep onto their cheeks. They’d always had a crush on Josh ever since Sam had introduced them to each other; that was only four years ago.

The blonde simply shakes her head before leaving the kitchen for a moment before returning, Josh following behind her. “What’s up?”

Sam simply pointed at Y/N, who was busy staring into space. He approached them, standing in front of their eye line, “Y/N? You okay?”

“Joshuaaa” Y/N smiled brightly as he came into their view. “You should try Chris’ brownies; they’re really good.”

His brows furrowed for a second in thought, reaching out to their chin and lifted their face to him. He assessed them for a moment before a smirk spread across his face. “Are you high?”

“Yep,” they answered, “Although I didn’t mean to be.”

He looked between them and the brownie tray before asking, “How many did you eat?”

Instead of speaking, Y/N shyly held up two fingers as an indication, “Jesus, you’ve barely touched the stuff, and you decided to eat two weed brownies?”

“I didn’t know they had weed in them.” They shrugged, ignoring Sam as she tried to hand them the bottle of water she’d gotten for them moments before.

“You didn’t know?” A laugh escaped him, and he crossed his arms. “How do you not know they’re weed brownies? What, you thought Chris was just that good of a baker?”

Sam tired to pass Y/N the water again but was waved away as they continued to defend themselves to Josh. “I thought it was one of his grandma’s recipes, like that cake he made for my birthday.”

“I doubt his grandma was the one that taught him how to make these.” He shook his head fondly before taking the drink from Sam’s hand and shoving it towards them. “Here, drink. It’ll help with that dry mouth.”

“Not thirsty.” They stated while pushing his hand away.

“Don’t care, drink the goddam water; you’ll thank me later.” His voice was stern, and he shoved the water back towards them. For as long as Y/N and Josh knew each other, everyone knew how protective he was over his younger friend.

Y/N knew they couldn’t argue with him, so they chugged the water and then quickly hopped off the counter, causing them to stumble a little bit.

Josh’s hands shot out and wrapped around their waist to keep them steady. “Woah, take it easy. You’re gonna fall on your ass, Y/N.”

"Well, you caught me,” they replied before tapping his nose. “So I’m perfectly fine.”

He smirked and kept a hold on them still. It was almost second nature to just keep their body close to his. “Just keep your feet on the ground next time, yeah?”

“‘Kay.” They replied simply, “Where’s Chris?”

“I’m sure he’s around; want us to go look for him?” He pulled away from them, taking a step back so they could move.

"I wanna thank him for his magic brownies."

“You really wanna thank him, or are you just wanting more brownies?” He asked with a raised eyebrow and crossed his arms. Y/N just shrugged in reply, earning a fond chuckle from Josh, “C’mon then, let’s go find Chris so you can thank him for the brownies.”

He carefully guided from the kitchen, walking to the living room, where Chris was sitting awkwardly making conversation with Ashley and Jess. Once Y/N eyes focused on Chris, they suddenly shot from Josh’s side. Nearly pouncing on him as they hug him from behind.

"BONJOUR MY MAGIC BROWNIE MAN!" They yelled in his ear as they kissed him on both cheeks.

Chris was clearly shocked, his eyes widening as he jumped from the couch and turned to face them. “Y/N, Jesus, you scared me.”

Without Chris sitting down, Y/N was now sprawled over the back of the couch, looking rather uncomfortable. He opted to ignore Josh’s mumble of “pussy” and turned to face his friend, “The fuck is wrong with you.”

"I'm high," Y/N replied simply, as if it explained everything.

“High? How can you be high? You don’t even smoke—oh, OH!” Chris’ eyes became wide with realisation, and he quickly lifted Y/N’s head up to look into their eyes. “How many did you take?”

"Only two," Y/N answered truthfully, their voice still slow and a hint deeper than it usually was. "Why? Is that a lot?"

Josh chuckled again at their confusion, while Chris looked even more shocked if that was possible. "Two? You're a lightweight; you're gonna be on your ass for three hours minimum!"

"Well, I didn’t mean to!” Y/N yelled back, “I didn’t even know they had weed in them.”

"That's your own fault, moron," Chris responded bluntly, but there was a hint of amusement in his voice. Then he turned to Josh, with eyebrows slightly furrowed in suspicion as he asked, "And where were you when our dear friend was getting high off their ass?”

Josh laughed quietly. "Relax, Coachie, I had nothing to do with this."

Y/N spoke up determinedly, "Hey, don’t be mean; Josh said he'd look after me.”

Chris rolled his eyes and let Y/N go, letting their head fall back down. "Of course he did. He's practically your knight in shining armour," he remarked sarcastically.

He turned back to a still-clueless Y/N. "Seriously though, how did you not realise they were weed brownies? They smell stronger than the skunk's den near my place."

By this point, Y/N was slowly sliding off the back of the couch and onto the floor. To the point their face was now in the sofa’s pillows, which muffled their voice as they responded.

"Alright, come on, let's get you somewhere more comfortable," Josh suggested as he walked over to Y/N, pulling them upright with ease as if they were a ragdoll. However, in this case, the ragdoll in question had a tendency to giggle at nearly everything and was finding the whole situation rather amusing.

“Chris is right, you’re my own personal hero.” Y/N said in between giggles, leaning their back into his, allowing him to drag them around the couch.

Josh simply hummed to himself, then he dragged them around the couch and made his way towards the stairs. "C'mon, you lightweight, let's get you to your room, yeah?"

Instead, Y/N fought against him by suddenly going limp in his arms. "Nooo, I'm not tired yet.”

“Shit!” Josh exclaimed as he struggled to hold Y/N up at the sudden added weight. “Jesus, stop doing that!”

“Can we watch a movie instead?”

Josh tried his best to hold the limp figure up. "Alright, alright, fine." He agreed, "We'll watch a movie."

As he spoke, he effortlessly scooped them up, with one arm under their legs and the other behind their back. He had never had a problem carrying them before, and it was the quickest way to ensure they didn’t fall.

He carried them to the couch and gently placed them down so they were sitting before heading to the DVD player and opening the cupboard with all the movies inside. “So what do you wanna watch?”

“Wait, I’m gonna text everyone and ask them to come." Y/N explained as they pulled out their phone and sent a quick text in the group chat, “We should decide together.”

Josh just raised an eyebrow at that but said nothing as he watched them quickly type out a message. Eventually the other’s made their way into the living room from wherever they were before.

“So Y/N,” Mike began with an amused smile as he read of his phone, “Mind telling us what ‘has gus come to live rom’ means?”

Emily stifled a giggle while Sam covered her mouth to hide a smirk. Mike was clearly the only one brave enough to ask the question.

Y/N furrowed their eyebrows in confusion. “I didn’t write that.” They said as they looked at their phone once more, “I wrote, Hey guys, come to the living room.”

“Are you fucking high or something?” Emily asked harshly, although she meant it affectionately, “You basically wrote in gibberish.”

"Yeah, I am..." Y/N answered honestly, a dopey smile on their face. "And Chris's brownies were really good."

Chris's face went bright red as everyone turned to stare at him. "You gave them weed brownies?!" Ashley gasped, slightly horrified. "How many did they eat?"

"Two," Chris admitted sheepishly, "I didn't think they'd actually eat them!"

"You ate what?" Matt asked, clearly shocked but more concerned about how Y/N would feel. He knew that a few of his friends smoked, but Y/N never did, meaning they had a low tolerance for that sort of thing. "Are they okay?"

Josh rolled his eyes and went to sit in the chair next to Y/N. "They're fine, Matt. Don't stress."

Y/N nodded fondly before grabbing Josh’s arm. “Josh’s taking care of me tonight!”

"Of course he is," Mike said with an amused smirk. "Josh always takes care of Y/N."

"I'm just looking out for my younger friend," Josh said with a shrug. "Anyway, what movie are we watching?"

"What if we watch a horror movie?" Matt suggested with a mischievous grin. "It'll be fun to see how Y/N reacts when they're high."

"No way, Matt," Josh said firmly. "We're not giving Y/N a panic attack."

At the same time as Josh’s words, Y/N also spoke up, “Great idea, Matt, we could watch The Conjuring!”

Josh frowned at Y/N. "You don't like scary movies," he reminded them. "I'm not letting you watch The Conjuring."

"I don't see why we can't watch it," Emily spoke up. "It'll be funny."

"It's not funny, Emily," Josh said, his tone bordering on annoyed. "Y/N doesn't like to be scared, and we don't want to take advantage of them when they're not in their right mind."

“Jesus Josh, no need to be so dramatic,” Jess spoke up from next to Emily with a smirk. “Y/N is a grown up; they can handle themselves.”

"That's not the point, Jess," Josh replied, his frustration evident in his voice. "They're not in their right mind, and I'm not letting you take advantage of that."

"Oh, come on, dude, lighten up,” Mike said as he patted Josh on the back. “We’re supposed to be letting go this weekend, remember?”

“Seriously Mike.” Josh muttered in reply as his eyes narrowed, ready to lay into his friend.

"Okay, okay, enough," Ashley interjected before the situation could escalate further. "How about we watch something light-hearted instead? Comedy maybe?"

Josh let out a sigh of relief, glad that the conversation had shifted to a more reasonable suggestion. "Yeah, that sounds better," he said, looking around at the group for their approval. "Y'all good with that?”

Unbeknownst to them, while they were all arguing over what movie to watch, Y/N had slipped from Josh’s grip and had approached the DVD cupboard. After finding the movie they wanted to watch, Y/N had simply placed it in the DVD player and pressed play. It wasn’t until the opening scene of a man loudly screaming in pain loudly echoed through the room did the others notice what had just happened.

"What the- Y/N! I told you we weren't watching a horror movie!" Josh exclaimed, his irritation clear.

Instead of answering, their eyes were fixated on the screen. They were completely silent for a while, until they finally spoke up when the movie versions of the Warrens appeared on screen. “Fuck. They’re so hot.”

Josh groaned in frustration, "Y/N. You’re way too high for this.”

"Come on, Josh," Sam said teasingly. "You can't blame Y/N for having a thing for Vera Farmiga."

“Shut up, Sam.”

“Oh Josh, that hurt’s my feelings.” Sam replied in mock hurt.

Meanwhile, Y/N had finally moved away from the TV and back towards the couch. Except instead of sitting back in the spot they were in, Y/N decided a better option would be to sit right in the centre of Josh’s lap.

"What are you doing?" Josh asked, slightly taken aback by Y/N's sudden intimacy. However, he didn't push them away, merely adjusting his position to accommodate them. He put his hands on their waist, holding them steady as they nestled into his lap.

“You’re comfy,” Was all Y/N said as the other’s simply smirked at each other before, taking their own seat to watch the movie; Sam now sitting in the spot Y/N used to be in.

As the movie continued, Y/N couldn’t help but feel a little shiver up their back and turned towards Chris, “Could you pass a blanket, please, Chris?”

“Sure,” he tossed them a large black fluffy throw, which Y/N happily placed on themselves and, as a result, Josh as well.

Josh was glad Y/N was comfortable, and he couldn't help but chuckle at the situation. "You're lucky I like you," he muttered under his breath as he tightened his arms around Y/N.

“Mhmm, I like you too.” They said as they shuffled further into his chest and rested their head on Josh’s shoulder. “Maybe I like you a bit more.”

“Shut up and watch the movie.” He responded fondly as he wrapped his arm around Y/N and pulled them closer.

The group continued to watch the movie in mostly silence, except for the occasional screams at the several jump scares. At some point throughout the movie, Y/N had adjusted in Josh’s lap and was sitting sideways with their head resting against his neck.

During the climax of the film, Y/N felt a bit dizzy and nauseous, so with a groan, they hid their face in Josh's neck. Yet despite not being able to see the film, the sound effects and voices were making them feel very overstimulated.

Noticing their distress, Josh reached his hand up and began to stroke her hair softly as he whispered over the movie, "Hey, you doing okay?”

Y/N couldn’t speak suddenly; their mind felt like mush; all they could do was mumble and shake their head against his neck.

Josh's concern deepens as he feels Y/N shake their head against his neck. He turns his head a bit to get a better look at their face, but all he can see is the disoriented look in their eyes.

"Hey," he says gently, "can you look at me for a second?"

Y/N tried to lift their head up but was struggling; they felt like it weighed nearly a tonne and couldn’t move. Their breathing grew heavy with panic, and tears weld in their eyes.

Josh noticed the tears welling up in Y/N's eyes and the panic setting in. "Hey, hey, it's okay," he said in a soothing tone. "Just take some deep breaths, okay? I'm right here with you."

Swallowing harshly, Y/N found their voice long enough to whisper into his neck, “I don’t wanna be here.” Before letting out a small sob.

"Shh, it's okay," he reassured, gently stroking their hair and using his own body to try and shield Y/N from the outside world. "We can leave, okay? We can go to your room if you want."

“Please…” Their voice was small now but still loud enough for Josh to hear.

Josh quickly gathered Y/N in his arms and stood; the others looked away from the movie at his movements. Watching as he began to carry them away from the room.

“Is Y/N okay, Josh?” Sam asked with a furrowed brow as motherly concern spread across her face.

He paused and turned back to the group. “They’re not feeling too good, so I think I should just take them to bed.”

"Alright, man," Mike spoke up. "Be sure to take care of them, yeah? And let us know if you need any help."

Josh nodded in agreement. "Don't worry, I've got it," he replied, his grip on Y/N tightening slightly.

With that, Josh turned back around and made his way up the stairs and into Y/N’s room. After a little struggle, he was able to push the door open and gently lay them down on the bed. He tucked them gently before moving around the room to make sure they had everything they needed: a glass of water, some painkillers, and a bucket, just in case.

He gently stroked their cheek before quietly moving to the door. “Wait!” A voice called back to Josh, caring for him to turn around, "Stay, please.”

"You sure you want me to stay?" he asked quietly.

“At least until I fall asleep.”

Josh nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Of course," he replied softly. "I'll stay."

He sat down above the covers next to Y/N and took their hand in his. “How are you feeling?”

“Better,” Y/N answered, “sorry for freaking you out.”

"No need to apologise," he replied, shaking his head softly. "You were in quite a state. I'm just glad you're feeling better now."

He continued to stroke Y/N's hair, his fingers weaving through the soft strands. "You'll be okay, I promise," he said reassuringly. "Just get some rest, okay?

“Mmhmm,” Was all Y/N said in reply; their eyes were closed and their breathing was growing softer as they drifted to sleep. “Thanks for looking after me.”

"No need to thank me," he said quietly. "I'm just happy to be here. Now, go to sleep, alright?"

He stayed sat beside them for a few more moments, watching as they entered a full state of sleep. Once he was sure they were deep asleep, he carefully brushed a stray lock of hair from their face and sighed softly.

In their deep sleep, Y/N breathy felt a soft touch on their forehead. Sighing contently, they fell deeper in sleep, not realising that Josh had placed a kiss on their head.

“Sleep tight, Y/N.” He whispered into the quiet, “I’ll be here to take care of you, always.”