It's Part A' Who I Am

Alright y’all, the time has finally come!  This blog is going dormant and the new multi-muse blog is finally ready!  *Celebration plays in the background*

Because this message is long (and I know some of y’all’s dashes are about to get flooded) everything else will be under the ‘Read More.’  ^_^

piercedflora​:

Hanzo watched the hunters as they considered his offer, and his eyes snapped to Mcree when he was the first to accept. His whistle and comment about the Devil earned a slight smile from Hanzo, but he hid it behind tented fingers as his gaze turned to the other hunters.

We like him We like him We like him…

A familiar purr echoed in the back of Hanzo’s mind, and his tattoo prickled as an approving hum buzzed beneath his skin. Hanzo internally chided his dragons, quieting them before they could embarrass him. Of course they liked him, his dragons shared in his emotions, and despite appearing otherwise, Hanzo found Mcree amusing. This would prove to be an interesting couple of months, he only hoped Mcree would be true to his word and arrive on time.

Ana and Reinhart confirmed after a murmured conversation between them, and Reyes made his decision last after a brief pause. All confirmed, all accepted, and now Hanzo could get down to business.

“I am pleased to have you all on board,” the clan leader hummed as his carefully constructed plan started to fall into place. He’d assumed the amount of money alone would be enough to entice even the most seasoned of hunters, and he was glad his hunch had been correct.

Another few taps on his holopad and a set of files was sent to each of their communicators.

“As I am sure you are all aware, my family’s empire is vast and we have no shortage of enemies. I cannot provide all who might make attempts on my life, but the files I just sent you will contain those that would… benefit the most from my removal. Information about the families and organizations, as well as their preferred methods of operation. If you require information that is not within those files, simply ask for it and we shall acquire it, one way or another.”

After another pause, and Hanzo rose from his chair. He gestured for the others to do so.

“You may read over those files at your leisure, and you may direct any questions to myself, Genji,” he gestured to his brother, and then did the same to his secretary, “or Haru. On most days they both will be more readily available than I.”

Hanzo then motioned for them to continue towards the door, and the air-tight seal opened with a sharp hiss.

“Come, we will show you to your quarters, then Haru shall give you the tour of the castle. Feel free to ask her for schematics or the blue prints of the building. We will take any precautions you deem necessary.”

As Hanzo talked, he walked, and led them a short distance through an intricate maze of hallways, all lined with traditional Japanese Shoji screens. Or so they appeared. Upon closer inspection lines of code and electricity flowed through the paper portions of the wall, and would feel like bulletproof glass when touched.

“There are two main halls leading to my personal chambers, and that is where you shall be positioned. Ana and Reinhart shall take one hall, Mcree and Reyes shall take the other.”

Once they reached a fork in the hallway Genji stepped to the side.

“Ana, Reinhart, please follow this way,” Genji smiled at the two, and Ana gave an affirmative nod to Reyes and Mcree.

“We will see you shortly for zeh tour!” Reinhart announced with a boisterous laugh that echoed down the silent halls. He gave Mcree’s shoulder a hearty slap before following Ana and Genji down the hall.

Hanzo led Mcree and Reyes down the other hallway, and he idly tapped at his holopad as silence fell between them. Then stopped a few doors down, and finally looked up from his work.

“These are your rooms,” Hanzo gestured between the two doors in front of them. “In 10 minutes you may meet Haru and the others at the juncture where we separated, that is where the tour shall begin. Do you have any further questions that I may answer?”

Jesse couldn’t deny it.  He liked when Hanzo’s eyes were on him.  A dangerous thing, maybe?  Might make him do or say things he knew he shouldn’t… just to have that piercing gaze directed at him.  And nowhere else.  If Hanzo were ANYONE else, the bounty hunter wouldn’t be using any self control over that fact.  But as of a few minutes ago this man had become his boss.  There was no way he was going to miss out on that many credits!  He knew he needed to be ‘all business,’ but that didn’t stop him from watching the man’s ass as he led them to their rooms.

When the group split he gave Rein a good-natured grin and a wave (after regaining his balance.)  It was really hard not to like the man - always so cheerful.  The kind of guy whose laughter was practically infectious.  As the sounds of the others died away, the air began to feel… heavy.  That was probably just Jesse’s imagination.  It was all too easy for his mind to fill the silence with memories of the fight he’d had with Gabe before he walked out.

He was almost grateful when Hanzo finally stopped, indicating they’d reached their destination.  There was no doubt in his mind he’d be living a lot finer than he did on the Deadeye.  Not that he’d be complaining.  No harm in enjoying himself a little, right?  When Hanzo asked if they had questions Jesse got ready to speak, but before he could do more than open his mouth and take a breath, Gabe was talking.

“You mentioned schematics and blueprints.  All of us should all have a copy of those. We’d also benefit from a comprehensive list of this building's defensive measures.  That includes any defenses in place outside its perimeter.”

piercedflora​:

Hanzo swallowed a scoff at Mcree’s offer to bring a book of his art from the shop. It seemed like such a small thing, and while he expected Mcree to forget the offer entirely, a part of him hoped he wouldn’t. A vulnerable part of him, an old part of him newly exposed after years of suppression, wanted to be protected- wanted to be taken care of-

Suddenly Hanzo steeled himself, reflexively stamping down those intrusive thoughts. He wasn’t some helpless omega seeking comfort from an alpha, which is what Jesse was if Hanzo’s nose was correct. Yes, Mcree had stitched him up. Yes, his eyes were soft and kind, and yes, his southern drawl did things to Hanzo that were carefully hidden, but Mcree was a stranger. Hanzo wasn’t going to let his years of masking and ignoring those instincts be ruined now by some cowboy with tattoos.

It was the injuries. The stress. He was feeling vulnerable, obviously. How was Mcree bringing a book of his art supposed to fill ridiculous desires like that?

Once Hanzo was alone, a blissful sense of relief washed over him. He could finally absorb what happened, he could process, and for a few minutes he stared blankly up at the ceiling. As the silence grew uncomfortable, he shifted carefully to take the medication and down the water Lucio had left. Then he laid back, and as the pain began to ebb away Hanzo felt the weight of his new reality crash violently over him.

Suddenly he was breathless, his heart beat wildly against his chest, and Hanzo shut his eyes tightly to stop the world from spinning. It hurt, the tension in his body as he struggled to regain control of his breathing, and it felt like ages before he could inhale without intense pain shooting through his chest. His vision was blurred when Hanzo finally opened his eyes, and he was startled to find moisture running down his cheeks. This was the first time he had cried since his father had shamed him for it as a child.

I’m pathetic. Hanzo thought bitterly, and he draped an arm over his eyes to hide the tears that no one else could see. Then he let the shame, regret, and exhaustion push him into a fitful sleep.  

-

Once Lucio was sure they couldn’t be overheard, he waved off Jesse’s offer to pay for the supplies.

“To be honest, I’ve been preparing this grab bag for a'while. Only thing I didn’t include was the stuff that would expire, like the meds. Genji knew it’d be a… bloody situation if things didn’t go as planned. I wasn’t gonna be caught unprepared, especially when it came to Genji’s brother.”

The questions from Jesse that followed, while valid and real concerns, made Lucio even more reluctant. He’d asked himself the same questions, and none of his research led to anything positve.

“To be honest with you Jesse, I have no idea,” Lucio rubbed a hand over his face and sighed for the umpteenth time that evening. “When Genji first told me about this, I actually consulted a doctor who works as a suppressant health specialist. We wanted to know what Hanzo’s options were when he became the heir of the clan, or- well- if this happened.

I asked her about studies, the effects of extended use, health risks, all of it…. and there- there’s just nothing about people using suppressants for this long. Any studies on break-less suppressant use don’t extend past 10 years- and most of them stop after 5 years.

Hanzo’s been on these for at least 15 years. I actually think it’s closer to 20, but my point is, the reason there’s no studies past that point is because the effects of extended use like this can be life threatening for some. Some people are fine, but consistent use after 5 years has been known to cause damage to reproductive systems or other organs. The strain on the heart often is too difficult to measure until it’s too late. It’s a wonder how Hanzo hasn’t had issues before this point.

Apparently Hanzo has had regular check-ups from their family doctor, and even when consulted in private by Genji, the doctor found nothing wrong with him. The only change over the years was the loss of his scent. Not that losing his scent isn’t a bad thing, but when looking at everything that could happen, that’s weirdly minimal.”

A guilty pang sounded through Lucio’s chest with Jesse’s next question, and he wished he had better answers than what he was about to give.

“I wish I had… I wish I could give you concrete answers, Jesse. Instead, I’m just gonna lay it out for you. All of it.

I have no idea what to expect. My best guess, and the doctor’s best guess, is that he won’t be able to have a Heat. Ever. We’d be surprised to see his scent return, let alone develop a Heat.

Unfortunately, according to Genji, Hanzo is very, very stubborn. There’d be no way to convince him to ease off of them, and I guess he’s not above sneaking out to try and acquire them himself if we kept them from him. This is the next best option. Getting him off them completely is going to be better for him than letting him continue until his body does start to fail.

There’s risks.

While it’s unlikely, if he does have a Heat we’d imagine it would be long, and painful. Especially if he doesn’t have someone to help him through it. Using toys only does so much during a regular Heat, and I just… I can’t imagine if his body finds its way back to its natural functions that it would be something small and harmless.

So, in the event of this worst case scenario, if the toys don’t help to ease the symptoms of his Heat we could find an escort service. There are kinds that help unmated omegas through it, but we’d need to find one we could trust to keep their mouths shut. If we can’t safely do that, we have to provide him with what we can. Some meds to help with the pain and suppress some of the symptoms, which I’d be reluctant to do but might be necessary. We’d watch his vitals to make sure he doesn’t… to make sure the worst doesn’t happen. Unfortunately, we can’t take him to a hospital. So myself, or the doctor I mentioned, would probably come watch over him. We’re both betas, and I trust her, so neither of us would be affected by his hormones, nor him- us.

All we can really do is adapt, because we’re in a really, really unique situation.

And I know you’d probably help regardless, but for what it’s worth- I’m really sorry Jesse. I know you didn’t sign up for any of this, and I promise that as soon as we can find a better place to hide him you will be the first to know. ”

Now, for Jesse’s part. Knowing Jesse would help, even with this situation thrust upon him, made Lucio feel even more guilty.

“All you have to do, really, is tell us about any changes. If he starts developing his own scent, starts presenting without realizing it, or if a Heat were to happen suddenly without any warning signs, tell us.

If the obvious signs of a Heat start happening slowly, it might be happening at a more natural pace and we could worry a little less about it being an unmanageable health risk. We might be able to just supply him with water, food, and toys and do regular checks on him, but just- all you have to do is keep me updated. That’s really all we can do for him, if you’re willing to help.”

Emotions fluctuated through Jesse from one end of the spectrum to the other as Lucio spoke.  Anger, disbelief, sympathy, indignation, even grief.  He wasn’t one of those damned alphas who thought omegas needed a mate or children to live a full life… but for Hanzo to have the option stolen from him like that.  It was beyond cruel… and it made something deep within him growl protectively.  No one was going to hurt the man again - not if he had any say in it.  

“Ya don’t hafta apologize,” he said, voice soft.  “I owe Genji a lot… an’ y’all both know me.  Anythin’ starts ta happen, I’ll bow out right fast.  Let y’all handle things.”  He didn’t mention how he was already feeling more protective than he probably should.  It would only complicate things.  They needed Jesse right now.  The rest could be ignored… and chalked up to the fact that he hadn’t had an injured omega in his presence in a very long time.  Surely any alpha would react the same way… right?

“So yeah… I’m gonna help however I can.  Hanzo can stay here while he heals.  Dunno what y’all have planned for after that… but I don't’ mind offerin’ my place as a safe haven for as long as he needs.”  Jesse gave an almost embarrassed grin.  “Though I don’t reckon this apartment is half as nice as what he’s used to.”  Jesse’s home wasn’t terrible, of course.  Neat and clean, it had the same square footage as the large tattoo parlor below.  There was also access to a rooftop space that he had set up for gardening and stargazing.  But he knew he couldn’t hold a candle to Hanzo’s previous home.  “Y’all have a plan for what ta do when he starts longin’ fer nicer digs?”

piercedflora​:

With each of Jesse’s visits to their shop, Hanzo felt a little more comfortable talking. Hanzo wasn’t the type to trust easily or quickly, but Jesse’s persistence and regular updates chipped gently at the florist’s guards. Normally he’d feel uneasy opening up to someone from behind those carefully constructed walls, but Jesse never pushed uncomfortably against them.

He became a steady presence, a regular part of Hanzo’s routine, and it slowly relieved the pressure of trying to navigate a relationship. Hanzo had few friends, let alone lovers, while part of their clan, and he had even fewer now. Admittedly, he’d never been good at making them, that happened when your demeanor was as inviting as multiple knives made of ice, but Jesse never seemed perturbed by Hanzo’s stiffness or awkward stumbling. Jesse’s visits, even if he had no updates on the progress of the piece, helped Hanzo slowly and surely find his footing. He even cracked the occasional joke, or a comment that almost sounded like flirting, but it was obvious Hanzo was unsure of himself, despite how neutral his face seemed.

The best part of Jesse’s visits was that Hanzo never felt like he had an ulterior motive. All of Hanzo’s life he’d learned to recognize the difference between a genuine smile, like his brother’s, and that of those who wanted either his money or his status. Jesse’s smile was neither. Jesse had known idea who he was- or had been, and that removed any doubt that he was anything other than sincere. Jesse’s smile was unique to him, but the warmth wasn’t unfamiliar. It was real, and Hanzo had seen so few of those directed at him.

While the tattoo was a perfect conversation starter during Jesse’s visits, Hanzo found himself looking for excuses to try and keep Jesse there a few minutes longer. Of course Genji called him out on it in private, or in front of Jesse in their native tongue just to see Hanzo blush, but Hanzo quickly got used to that too. He had his own retorts now, and Genji always smiled when he had something smart to say in return. Hanzo couldn’t remember the last time that making Genji laugh felt so easy.

It was easy and so… mundane, that Hanzo marveled at it all when he was alone. This is what it must feel like to be an ordinary person, free of the pressures of his clan and responsibilities. Yes, he’d had little to want for while heir to his- no- that clan, as it was no longer his own, but Hanzo envied those who always had a life like this.

-

Midori looked up from his phone when Mcree entered, and he flashed the other a knowing grin. Midori wasn’t an idiot, he new Mcree’s visits were not for him, and he was proven right every time Mcree asked about his brother. He’d also grown used to the routine of Jesse’s visits, and with the most recent ones Midori had made himself scarce while he and he brother were working. As it turned out, this visit wasn’t the usual one, with Mcree’s mention of ‘sketches’. It earned a curious tilt of Midori’s head, but his grin remained intact as he nodded.

“He is, let me get him!” Midori hummed, and he disappeared through the door behind the counter. A minute later Ryu appeared, his faded blonde hair, with dark tips at the ends, tied up into a bun. He looked a little disheveled, like he’d been lifting something heavy, and he wiped off the dirt from his hands onto his apron.

“Mcree,” Ryu smiled slightly, a rare display of emotion that was reserved for a few select individuals. Jesse was now included in that small pool of people. “My brother said you requested my presence?” Not that Jesse ever needed to have a reason to ask for Ryu, he would have come to speak with Jesse as soon as he heard his voice, but by the curious look on Midori’s face seemed suspicious.

That smile!  So slight… but perfect all the same.  Jesse felt warmth fill him whenever he saw it… but especially when Ryu directed it at him.  Not to mention, even dirty and disheveled, the man looked amazing.  Returning the smile, he replied, “I did, yeah…”  But first - honesty.  “I uh… I should confess I might’ve stuck my foot in my mouth jus’ now.”  His hand went up to rub sheepishly at the back of his neck.  “Mentioned the sketches to Midori… didn’ think ‘til afterwards that ya might not’ve said anythin’ to ‘im…”  His expression was both worried and apologetic.  “Hope I didn’ do nothin’ wrong.  Guess I jus’ got excited.  They’re finished, ya see…  An’ I was hopin’ maybe we could set up a time ta look ‘em over?  Maybe… meet up somewhere?  Grab some dinner?”

Like the Burn Marks on My Hands

leatherandsoil​:

Kelly knew that frustration.  Oh did he know.  “I’ve all ready talked to them.” he said when Jesse mentioned references.  “And they have nothing but good things to say about you.  Hard worker. Loyal.  Personable.  As for that prison time…I get it.” he held up a hand to stall a no doubt forthcoming glare. “I’ve been there.  Folsom, actually.”  Jesse’s eyebrows shot up and Kelly nodded.  Yeah, that usually surprised people.  

“Arsehole was harassing some poor girl at the bar.  Wouldn’t leave her alone. I stepped in, told him to piss off.  He swung on me.  I hit back and it went to shit from there.  Ended up going down for manslaughter.” Kelly grinned ruefully, remembering. “Guy’s parents had money, knew some people.  They made sure I went away for as long as possible.  I got out, bounced around doing labor jobs for a while.  Grunt jobs, all muscle, no brains.  Then I got hired here.  Lawn work, right?  Thought it’d be another seasonal job.” Kelly chuckled, gestured at the holiday decorations hanging on the walls.  “Nah.  Torbijorn-he owned the place at the time-was branching out into the Christmas light business and wanted help.  Plus he’s a sawed off lil bastard so he needed someone tall.  He looked past the prison sentence.  Now, I had to put in the work, mind you, but it was rewarding work.  Still is.  And Torb taught me a lot.  Everything, in fact.  And last year when he retired, he sold the whole shebang to me.”  Kelly stopped talking to shake his head.  Sometimes, he couldn’t believe it himself.  “So, I went from convicted felon to respected small business owner, because a half pint Ikea gnome took a liking to me.  He gave me a chance, and if you’re game, this oversized leprechaun would like to give you the same one.”

Jesse blinked, trying to take all the information in.  Tim Kelly understood!  Better than just about anyone else ever could.  Yeah, it sounded like the other man’s prison sentence had been created via a badly-timed act of nobility.  Whereas Jesse... well, he’d more than earned his stint behind bars - regardless of what the feds had promised him.

For a minute he didn’t know what to say, and just sat there, gaping like a breathless fish.  Finally Jesse found his words.  “You.. you mean that?  You’re not just pullin’ my chain?” Kelly didn’t seem like the type to make cruel jokes, but it had to be asked... voiced.  He needed to hear the other man say it all again.  “Cause if you’re fer real, then you’ve got yourself one grateful, an’ very hard worker.  I can start just as soon as you need.”

No Stranger to the Rain

The redhead’s cheeks flared in color as Jesse winked at her, and she chuckled. Unable to help the smile on her face she nodded in agreement, “I’m surprised they haven’t already told you! You’re so convincing.” When the waitress came by Hinoka put in her order as well as a request for a refill. Her eyes fell back on Jesse and she listened to his explanation of his talents. She couldn’t help but look at the ink on his arm as he described it. Her eyes would flit between it and his face. She always enjoyed seeing people talk about their passions.

“Wow that’s really impressive! I feel like that would make more people want to come to you for work done, but I can understand why you’d want to gain a reputation based on your own work.” She murmured, stirring the ice in her glass with the straw.  “Oh, me?” She asked, looking at her hands. “I don’t know, I never really thought about it…” She hummed in thought, “Tattoos aren’t really allowed in Japan, so I kind of grew up with that mindset. Still though, I think they’re beautiful.” She rolled up one of her sleeves, pressing a thumb to her inner forearm. “Maybe something with a watercolor look? I’d want something with flowers for sure…” “What do you think?” She asked genuinely, “Also wow, that sounds like it would’ve been fun to work on! I wonder what the story behind it was…”

Had he made her blush?  Was it wrong that he liked the possibility that he had?  Jesse grinned at her flattery, a soft chuckle escaping his lips.  If she only knew where he’d learned his ‘convincing’ skills.  But that wasn’t usually the kind of conversation he had with someone he barely knew.  Jesse liked for a person to get to know him a little first before going too deep into his past.  Maybe it was a little deceptive?  But he always hoped that knowing him a little would alter someone’s opinion when they learned he’d been in prison… maybe keep them from judging him too quickly.

Ordering a chili pie and a soda when the waitress appeared, he flushed a little at Hinoka’s praise.  Jesse was proud of his skill - knew he was good at it - but everybody liked hearing it from someone else, didn’t they?  He sure as hell did.

When Hinoka mentioned the taboo surrounding tattoos in Japan, he nodded.  Not that Jesse knew much about it, but he was pretty sure he remembered reading at some point that body ink was reserved for the unsavory types… people like him - gangsters, convicts, etc.  It wasn’t something an average person just decided to go out and do.

Watching as she rolled up one sleeve, Jesse studied her arm, taking note of the pattern of scars revealed there - recalling them from earlier.  ”Watercolor and flowers… hmm…  Well, tha first artist that comes ta mind is Georgia O’Keefe.  My gran used ta have her prints hangin’ all over tha ranch.  Her style tends ta be more abstract, but there’s a lot a’ beauty in it - bright colors an’ flowin’ lines.  Or, if yer wantin’ somethin’ more realistic, Franz Bauer’s style might work.  He was a botanical illustrator who did a lot of watercolor work - very detailed stuff.”

changingthelights​:

The touch to Cam’s thigh caused Cam’s breath to catch in his throat, and a flush spread from his warmed cheeks and down his neck. Now it was Cam’s turn to shift in his seat, only as soon as Jesse pulled away.

Cam swallowed, and he used the time it took for Jesse to write his number and address down to collect himself. He could only imagine the types of things Jesse might… teach him, and Cam was very interested in being a ‘model student’ in this case. He was sure there was plenty they could teach each other- and Cam was drawn back from his daydreaming to Jesse setting a time for their date. 

“10′s great,” Cam said a little too quickly, and he smiled sheepishly at Jesse as he took the offered paper. “10 is - yeah it’s great.” Cam nodded, and he tugged his beanie back onto his head. He bit his lip, studied Jesse for a moment, and then he smiled and tugged his sunglasses out of where he’d tucked them into the neck of his shirt. 

“See ya at 10, Jesse,” he winked at the other before slipping out of the office. Cam was paying little attention to his surroundings, the swirling thoughts and excitement might have contributed to his somewhat abrupt departure, so it was a wonder that he didn’t walk fully into the man approaching him from the other end of the hall. 

Cam jolted back to the present as his shoulder clipped that of another man, and he looked up - sunglasses still in hand. Cam blinked as a he was met with a intense stare from a man much darker, taller, and broader than him. Cam’s eyes drifted to his chiseled jawline and then lower, this guy was fit - and Cam’s first thought was;

‘Do they only hire drop dead gorgeous men at this shop?’

That thought was quickly followed by his fear of being recognized, and Cam’s eyes fell from admiring the series of dark piercings across the other man’s face.  One bright blue stud stuck out against all the surrounding black metal and scars, but Cam quickly put on his sunglasses and continued past the man. The flush remained on his cheeks, now from embarrassment rather than the heat Jesse had stirred up under his skin.

“Sorry about that, wasn’t watching where I was going,” he said quickly, and picked up his pace as he hurried from the shop. 

–

Cam spent the rest of the evening getting ready. Which meant he spent most of his night trying to keep Zeus off of him so he didn’t get white husky hair all over his carefully crafted outfit. Cam had agonized over it for far too long, after taking a shower and applying his favorite cologne (a fresh citrus scent with a hint of musk at the end, like something you’d apply after a hard workout and a shower immediately after), and even now as he prepared to leave there were second thoughts. 

Was it too simple, too casual, not hot enough? 

Admiring himself in the mirror, Cam took stock of his clothes. His studded leather jacket, green combat boots, black pants with various pockets and straps, and a green shirt to match his boots. The shirt was tucked into his pants on one hip, and the other side hung loose, revealing a few intentionally placed holes that lined up Cam’s side. Wallet, keys - there was no reason he had left to delay, and he didn’t want to be late. This had to be okay, Jesse didn’t seem to be the type to care exactly what Cam wore, but it didn’t stop Cam from wanting to dress to impress. Well, if that’s what this feelings was. He hadn’t been on a date in years so he wasn’t sure worrying this much over some clothes was normal. 

With a sigh, Cam gave Zeus a firm pet, wiped himself down with a lint roller, and hopped onto his bike. He sent Jesse a quick text before heading out.

[It’s Cam, from earlier. Probably shoulda texted you earlier but - ANYWAY - I’m on my way. See you soon!]

The drive was short, and as instructed, Cam found an easy place to park his bike in the lot, and the side door was just as easy to locate. 

One deep breath later and Cam pressed the buzzer. 

As he waited he idly fiddled with the strap on his helmet to distract himself. He wasn’t sure why he felt so nervous, but if the butterflies in his stomach were anything to go by… he might want Jesse to like him, maybe a little too much. 

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt such a raw attraction to someone, and that alone was terrifying to Cam. Nothing had happened between them yet, and already he was worrying about something cropping up to ruin it. Every other time he’d tried to go on a date in the past few years his budding fame, jaded past, ptsd, or nightmares had managed to royally screw even the simplest of relationships he tried to foster. Even if Jesse was just someone he could call a friend… Cam hadn’t made a new one of those in years either. 

He was drawn to Jesse, but following that desire for friendship, companionship - whatever this want was - felt like a huge risk. He was dancing over the edge of carefully crafted walls he’d used to protect himself for years… and he had no idea why he was doing this for a man he’d spent barely an hour with. 

Suddenly this door felt much larger than it really was, and Cam glanced back down the alleyway. He could still leave, he could come up with an excuse and maybe still get the tattoo done- if he couldn’t get the work done there were other shops in the city he could look at- there was still time to go back to the safety of his walls.

Jesse’s eyes followed Cam until he vanished past the doorframe.  If Gabe had any idea what he’d just done, he wouldn’t hear the end of it for at least a week.  Which is why Gabe doesn’t have to know, his mind whispered.  The ex-con sighed happily, still feeling the endorphin buzz from that shared chemistry.  Yeah, it was a hell of a lot for someone he’d just met… but he’d also liked Cam’s general vibe, too - his attitude. As for the rest… well, that would come with time.  He hoped.

Jesse had just finished sending a bunch of the images Cam had pulled up to the shop’s printer, when Gabe walked in, making him jump (in a way that he hoped didn’t look too guilty.)  There was a bemused, almost starstruck look on the older man’s face.  “Uh… you okay, boss?”

Gabriel blinked.  “I think…” He gestured toward the hallway.  “The guy who just left?  The one with all the piercings...”

Quickly, Jesse recalled the look Gabe had given Cam earlier, when he’d come to take over the front desk.  What was going on?  “Uh yeah, we just finished talkin’ designs an’ ideas…”  A beat.  “Somethin’ wrong?”

“Hang on…”  Gabe pulled out his phone, quickly typed something in and started scrolling.  Then, tapping the screen, he moved the phone so Jesse could see a picture on the screen.  It was Cam!  Even with the heavy eye makeup (which did wonderful, flip floppy things to his insides) there was no doubt about it.  “Was this him?  The guy just now?”  

Jesse nodded, unable to help the happy grin tugging at his lips.  “Yeah… think so.  Where’d you get his picture?”  

Gabriel was chuckling now.  “You need to start listening to more than just country music, flaco.”

“Hey now!  Don’t go knockin’ my music!  An’ what’s that got ta do with anythin?’”  

Still laughing a little, Gabe replied, “Your new client is the lead singer of L&F, a very popular punk rock band.  I... may or may not own all of their CDs...”

The ex-con had imagined a lot of scenarios in his life… but never this one.  “So… he’s famous?”

“The kind of famous that requires hats and sunglasses if he has to go out,” came Gabe’s matter-of-fact reply.

Jesse whistled.  “Well… he was actin’ a little weird when he came in… thought it was nerves… but that definitely explains it.”  Then, thinking quickly, he continued, “We should keep this on the down-low, dontcha think?”

Gabriel nodded.  “He obviously didn’t want to be seen, and we always promise our clients confidentiality.  Maybe we’ll get lucky after the design’s done and he’ll plug the shop.”

“My gran use ta’ have a sayin’ ‘bout countin’ chickens before they hatch,” Jesse teased.  “He hasn’t even agreed ta let me ink him yet.”  His insides began to buzz as he thought about what Cam HAD agreed to.

Grinning, Gabriel replied, “A man can dream, can’t he?”

~~~~~

When Jesse arrived home that evening he gave his apartment one look and grimaced.  He should’ve said 11.  Oh well, that meant it was hustle time!  First things first - the apartment.  Clothes went in the hamper, the bed got made, stacks of magazines got straightened and the kitchen counter was wiped down.  After that, he headed up to the roof, flipping on the white strings of lights he decorated with year round, and giving the curtains around his little make-shift covered space a beatdown.   Then he arranged all the blankets and pillows just right.

Finally, Jesse hopped into the shower.  He should have just enough time… As he showered, he thought about what Gabe had revealed to him earlier.  He was going to have to tell Cam what he knew.  It was only fair.  To not say anything would be the same as lying in Jesse’s mind.  Would that end things before they even started?  Did Cam want someone who didn’t know who he was?  He worried about that, but there was still no question in his mind of being honest about what he knew.  And if Cam was okay with it?  Then would come the talk about Jesse’s past.  That was only fair.  Someone as famous as Cam had a right to know what he might be getting into with someone like Jesse.

The downstairs doorbell buzzed just as he was slipping into fresh clothes (and reading the text Cam had sent earlier.)  The ex-con didn’t have a lot in the way of ‘date wear.’  At work he was allowed jeans and fun t-shirts.  His parole hearing clothes were way too formal, but he had some ‘going out’ clothes that would probably fit the bill.  A nice pair of worn cowboy boots, dark blue jeans, and a slim fitting maroon shirt with ribbed sleeves.  He left his hair down, rather than pulled back like he kept it at work.  And that completed the ‘look.’

Hoping he wasn’t under-dressed, Jesse took the stairs down two at a time, opening the door with just a hint of breathlessness… which became more apparent when he saw Cam… because he briefly forgot how to breathe.  The makeup wasn’t as heavy as what he’d seen in the picture, but something about it made Cam’s eyes seem to glow hypnotically in the streetlights.  Realizing he needed to speak, Jesse offered the other man one of his award-winning smiles and said, “Hey.  You look amazin!’”  He opened the door wider.  “Come on in.  Tha place ain’t much… but I promise I tried ta clean…”

As he led Cam back up the stairs, Jesse kept talking.  “I, uh, wasn’t sure if you’d be hungry, so I didn’t make anything.  But I can whip up somethin’ quick, if ya want.”  And Jesse wouldn’t mind, either.  He wasn’t an amazing cook, but he had a few dishes that stood out, and it might be fun to show off a little.  If Cam even wanted to stay… after he reveled what he knew.

"An inch of time is an inch of gold but you can't buy that inch of time with an inch of gold." - Chinese Proverb

It was supposed to be an easy mission.  But Jesse should’ve known by then to take those words with a grain of salt.  Hell - he was pretty sure Athena didn’t even know what that word meant anymore.  Either that, or the AI needed some serious upgrades.  But yeah - easy.  Make their way into the abandoned Talon base, deal with any remaining ‘security measures’ and scavenge whatever tech and files they could find.  Winston and Tracer had gone after the files, Jack and Anna were dealing with security, which left Hanzo and himself scrounging through empty laboratories looking for anything that might be useful… or help them get a bead on what Talon’s next moves might be.

Jesse had to admit that the entire mission had felt… off from the beginning.  Why was the place abandoned so suddenly?  Athena didn’t have any intel on that.  But Talon has left in a hurry and Overwatch (still trying to find itself in this new world) needed all the help they could get, so they’d acted.  Now, as he watched Hanzo move quietly along beside him, Jesse hoped things here were exactly what they seemed.  He allowed the hint of a smile to cross his lips as he thought about his previous night with the archer.

What they had was… unexpected.  But also damn good.  How Genji’s wayward brother had managed to become such an important part of his life in such a short amount of time was something Jesse didn’t question too closely.  The man made him happier that he’d thought possible, and that was enough.

Forcing his mind back to the present, Jesse kept his eyes on the corridor as Hanzo moved ahead of him into the next room.  A brilliant blue light suddenly flooded the hallway from the door… before it closed with a soft ‘whoosh-click,’, sealing him off from Hanzo and whatever had been triggered by the archer’s entry into the room.  With a curse, Jesse bounded for the door, trying to pry it open.  “Winston, I gotta problem,” he called into his comm.  “Somthin’s goin on, an’ Hanzo’s stuck in tha middle of it!”  There was a staticky crackle of what might’ve been his teammate’s voice, but nothing discernible.  With another curse, Jesse did the only other thing he could think of - he turned his gun to the door’s control panel, and fired.

The door popped open about an inch, blue light flooding the corridor once more and Jesse leapt forward to pry it the rest of the way open.  Inside he couldn’t really make sense of what exactly was happening.  There was a platform, and in the center was a thrumming, swirling circle of blue light… and it was inhaling everything that wasn’t nailed down!  Hanzo had managed to grab onto a support beam, but his lower body was already within the ravenous void.  Feeling himself being sucked forward as well, Jesse angled for the same beam as Hanzo, grabbing onto his lover with his prosthetic arm, and holding onto the beam with the other.  

Just as he did, Hanzo lost his grip.  Jesse still felt himself holding onto the other man, but the archer was completely within the portal now.  “No, dammit!”  As if crying out could change whatever was happening.  He tried not to crush Hanzo’s arm with his mechanical grip as his serape whipped around between them, dancing in and out of the brilliant blue glow.  Jesse’s hold on the support column loosened.  His arm was in the portal now, but he could still feel Hanzo holding on, so he knew whatever this was, it hadn't killed the other man.  Yet.  

And then the room suddenly went dark.  Jesse heard a sharp ‘crack-pop-sizzle’ as his prosthetic (or what was left of it) dropped uselessly to his side.  What the HELL had just happened?!  Suddenly his comm snapped to life.  “Jesse!  What’s going on down there?!  We had to cut the power…”

Oh… oh god!  He felt his mind start to spiral, but forced words into his mouth.  “Winston!  I lost Hanzo!  You gotta turn the power back on!  We gotta get him back!”  Emergency lights began to flicker on… but the dais where the portal had been stayed dark and empty.  Oh fuck…!

Winston was talking again… asking questions.  Jesse just stared at the place Hanzo had been mere moments before.  Then the voice changed to Jack’s - more demanding.  Gaze sliding down to where his prosthetic hand had once been, Jesse forced himself to take a breath and start talking.  The sooner they figured this out, the sooner he could get Hanzo back.  He needed to focus.  Losing it wouldn’t help the man he’d so quickly grown to love.  The sooner he pulled himself together, the sooner they’d get this figured out and get Hanzo back.  Because there was no way in HELL they weren’t getting the other man back.  Jesse would see to that.

Someone had killed Death.  They all felt it - a deep, wrenching jolt, like how your insides feel when you’re falling.  And just like that, Jesse lost his best friend.  Grief wasn’t something someone like him could afford.  Hell, it wasn’t something any of them could.  They were the Horsemen, and they had jobs to do.  Caring too much didn’t do anything but make their work harder.  But the four of them were a team, of sorts, and losing one of their own resonated deep within them all.  It would’ve been different if Ashe had decided she was ready to leave.  Any of them could do that at any point - say they were done and rejoin the mortal world.  But each of them had caveats.  All it would take for Jesse to lose his title as War would be a loss in battle.  Granted, he didn’t worry much about that happening, but it could.  For Ashe, the mantle could be passed if the one she came for claimed her life instead.  He’d never even thought it was possible.  But someone had done it.  Someone he’d soon be meeting.

Although centuries had passed since Jesse’s own ascension, he still remembered those first few years - how lost he’d felt.  Becoming a Horseman - by choice or not - robbed you of your mortal memories.  You were left bare - an empty vessel with no attachments to the mortal plain.  It was jarring… and lonely.  The others had done their best to soothe those feelings - they all remembered what it was like - and eventually he’d grown into his role as War.

He and Ashe worked together a lot - for understandable reasons.  He guided the eddies and currents of combat, and she claimed the souls of those who lost their lives on his battlefields.  It was like a dance with them - one he’d cherished… one he already missed.  The woman herself wasn’t gone, of course.  When your time as a Horseman was done, you could choose to move on to the next plane, or you could choose a new mortal life.  One way or another, he’d see her again… but it wasn’t the same, dammit!

Now, the three of them stood in their pavilion, far from mortal eyes, and waited for the appearance of their new fourth.  A part of Jesse wanted to lash out at the newcomer as soon as they appeared.  This was the person who’d taken Ashe from him!  They didn’t deserve his acceptance or his empathy!  

Remember…  The voice was like a hushed breath against his ear, but he couldn’t ignore the firm command hidden in that gentle tone.  The Horseman sighed.  It wasn’t his place to judge - he knew that.  Whoever appeared before them was going to be just liked he’d been all those centuries ago.  Lost.  Confused.  Maybe lonely?  He owed it to Ashe to be, for this new Death, what she had once been for him.  A friend.  

So War sucked in a deep breath and let it out slow, shoving his personal grief into the deepest part of himself that he could, and waited for the newest Horseman to arrive.

So, not going to go into the whole, ‘Real Life Sux!’ monologue.  But I’ve finally got some time for Jesse replies so I’m going to do a handful.  I can’t promise to get to everything today, but in the spirit of fairness I’m going to try to reply in order from oldest to newest.

Here’s what that list looks like right now:

@piercedflora​ - 4 Horsemen Starter

@piercedflora​ / @leatherandsoil​ - Time Travel Starter

@changingthelights​ - Drums n' Guns

@healingbrews​ - No Stranger to the Rain

@leatherandsoil​ - Planting Happiness

@piercedflora​ - Painted Flowers

@piercedflora​ - Broken

@piercedflora​ - Ballad of Fallen Angels

This is based on my RPThreadTracker list.  If I’ve missed something, I promise it wasn’t intentional!  >.<  Please message me and let me know.  

piercedflora​:

Hanzo did not move as soon as the door closed behind Genji. Instead he lingered as his eyes and hands wandered, trailing claws slowly along Jesse’s thighs as he contemplated his next move. A dark part of Hanzo wanted to introduce his One to every pleasure at Hanzo’s immediate disposal. He could only imagine how sweet the other would taste, how delicious the sounds he might make, if the sound following the tweak of his pierced nipple was anything to go by. Given their positions it was within his ‘right’ to do so. It’d be easy, to simply take as he pleased, but in his heart Hanzo knew that was something he did not want. Pleasure forced was still just that, and Hanzo preferred it willingly given. At least from someone so important to him.

He still could not believe the sight, the red string floating between them, and so many parts of Hanzo wished the two of them were in any position other than this one. To court Jesse properly was not a luxury given to men in their positions, but maybe…. maybe something else would be suitable. Perhaps when this was all over, and Hanzo stood over the ruins of this corrupted empire, they might be able to do things in a way that his One truly deserved.

With an exasperated sigh, Hanzo’s hands stilled against Jesse’s thighs, and he leaned back against his throne. Tension eased slightly from Hanzo’s shoulders, but his body remained rigid, poised as if he were unsure of how to truly relax. Then Hanzo’s thumbs moved again and trailed small, lazy circles over Jesse’s inner thighs.

“I apologize, I find these… proceedings- incredibly dull,” a lie to mask his selfish desire to touch Jesse in any way he could, “I did not mean to use you in such a way, but I enjoyed making the others in this room uncomfortable. No one here, outside of my brother, truly cares for me or the meaning of these events. It was humorous, my silence regarding you put everyone on edge.” Hanzo chuckled, and the claw of his thumb dragged a single line alone the v of Jesse’s hip. The werewolf seemed sensitive, which Hanzo liked, and while he had no intention to take this any further than playful touching, Hanzo saw no reason not to take advantage of what he could. He wanted Jesse to want him, surely there was nothing wrong with that?

Then Hanzo took notice of the way Jesse looked at him. Though it was curious and inviting, it occurred to Hanzo that he was still in his demon form. To most, he knew it was off-putting, so a moment later his body shrank slightly, and his skin changed from it’s deep gray to softly tanned. Dark pupils and blue iris’ swirled, then solidified in his eyes, and his claws, horns, and fangs melted away. When the shift was complete a moment later, what seemed like and ordinary man now held Jesse firmly in his lap. The sharpness in his features remained, he was no less handsome, but his intimidating presence was a bit more subdued. There was still a tension wrung tight through his body, but there was a kindness in his eyes he could not hide as he looked at Jesse. His One was here in his arms, and Hanzo wanted to do this as right as he could.

Hanzo reached behind him to tug his coat off of the back of his chair, and the placed it over Jesse’s shoulders. It was a shame to cover Jesse up, in Hanzo’s mind, but he could only imagine how exposed Jesse felt. Kindness, Hanzo reminded himself as he tugged the coat around Jesse. He had to focus on kindness over his own selfish needs. The itch in his fingers to touch, along with the half-hard length in his slacks, needed to be ignored. He would not be like other masters to this man. Thankfully his coat was large enough for Jesse, his suppressed Oni form was larger than the other, and it had not shifted to fit the size of Hanzo’s human form as the rest of his clothes had.

“Rise,” he ordered, and he took Jesse’s hand to help his new pet off his lap. “We shall get you a bath and proper clothes. Then you shall tell me more about yourself, Jesse.” Hanzo intended to learn everything he could.

The demon lord rose from his chair after Jesse, and he stood just a few inches shorter than the other when at his full height in this form. It’d be easy enough to make himself a few inches taller, but this size became a habit when he found it meant others tended to underestimate him. Hanzo placed another firm hand against the small of Jesse’s back as he pushed the werewolf towards one of the side walls. As they approached, without any prompting from Hanzo, a portion of the wall popped open and slid to the side to reveal a hidden hallway.

A young woman, dressed in a plain, light blue kimono, greeted them with a polite bow as they entered. Hanzo addressed her with a nod.

“I will see you in my chambers,” he said to Jesse with a touch to his elbow. Then Hanzo paused, and the smallest smirk tugged at the corners of his lips. “I would prefer if you keep these visible,” he gestured to Jesse’s ears and tail, as he knew enough about werewolves to know it would be easy enough to Jesse to make them disappear, “they are… cute.” Then he gave Jesse another once-over before he turned, clasped his gloved hands behind his back, and proceeded casually down the hallway.

“This way, please,” the maid smiled sweetly at Jesse as Hanzo took his leave, and she gestured down the hallway in the opposite direction.

It was a short walk down the shoji screen-lined hall before the maid stopped at a wooden door, and it slid open to reveal an in-ground bath, already filled with steaming water. A mixture of different scents wafted from the doorway as it was opened, indicating scented oils and herbs had been added, and the young woman motioned for Jesse to enter.

“There are towels to the right,” she gestured just inside the door, “and robes to the left. Please let me know when you are finished, I shall take you to his chambers.” She bowed politely to Jesse, one less deep and formal than what she had given Hanzo, and the door slid quietly behind Jesse, leaving him alone in the bathroom.

A few minutes later Jesse would hear a knock at the door.

“I apologize for interrupting,” the maids voice came from the other side of the door. There was a pause before the door open, and the maid returned with a series of books in her arms. She kept her head down, so she didn’t invade Jesse’s privacy more than she already had. “Master Shimada would like you do select whatever clothes you wish from these catalogs. He also asks you select formal wear for the gala tomorrow, he wishes for you to attend with him. The tailor will be by early in the morning to take your measurements.” Another polite little bow as she set the catalogs down beside the bath along with a towel for Jesse to dry his hands, and she took her leave.

Inside were clothes of all grades, from what would be considered designer to casual wear. Bed clothes, undergarments, Japanese and English styles, even dresses- if Jesse desired. He had every option he could imagine, and by the maids words, Jesse had the pick of whatever he desired.

Jesse knew (as much as the idea unnerved him) he’d be perfectly content to sit there on his new Master’s lap and be stroked for however long the other desired… and he couldn’t deny disappointment when the motions stopped.  The apology that followed took him by surprise.  So… he wasn’t the kind of Master who typically enjoyed having an audience?  Good to know.  Then those thumbs began to caress him again, and the werewolf’s breath hitched.  It felt so damn good!  Putting on an act with Shimada wouldn’t be hard at all, despite all of Jesse’s misgivings about the situation.

“Puttin’ you at ease is what I’m here for, darlin.’  No need to be apologizin’ fer that.”  Yes - talking was a risk.  Not all Masters wanted a vocal slave, but since he tended to be a bit mouthy, it was always good to find out where he stood early on - even if it earned him a punishment or two.  He watched in clear amazement as the demon’s form began to shift… and Jesse suddenly found himself straddling a human man… who was, it seemed, shorter than he was.  And about as handsome as they came.  His mouth was definitely hanging open.  It didn’t close until Shimada took the coat from his chair and draped it over the werewolf’s shoulders.  That was… surprisingly chivalrous, and made his heart flutter shamelessly.

Oh, fuck.  He was in so much trouble here.

Following the other’s orders, he rose as carefully as he could, grateful for the hand that helped to balance him until he was up.  Damn.  The guy just kept surprising him.  He hadn’t missed the slight bulge in his Master’s pants.  A good slave knew to pay attention to every reaction a Master might display.  He’d really expected to help take care of it.  But, no?  Instead he was being sent away?  Jesse knew better than to argue, but the decision definitely left him wondering just what kind of Master this demon would turn out to be.  Was it too soon to hope this might all wind up okay?

As the sliding door appeared seemingly out of nowhere, Jesse paid attention.  This place was going to be a challenge to get around in.  Better to start taking as many mental notes now as he could.  But before he could focus on what was sure to be a daunting task, the demon surprised him again.  Cute…?!  Jesse felt himself flushing with a combination of embarrassment and pleasure… and he couldn’t stop it!  Shimada liked his ears and tail?  Flustered, he found himself speaking again, “Whatever you’d like, darlin.’”  His eyes lingered on the man as he walked away.  This… it was going to be impossible.  Dammit!  Why now?!  Why HIM?!  

Suppressing a frustrated sigh, Jesse followed the kimono-clad woman down the hall.  At the sight (and smells) of the bath, the werewolf felt himself go a little light-headed.  This was all for him?  No one else?  Surely not.  Maybe his new Master liked games.  As soon as he thought he was alone, the demon would slip in from some hidden doorway for a bit of fun?  Because this couldn’t be all for one slave… especially just him.  It didn’t make sense.

He’d barely had time to neatly set aside the jacket from around his shoulders when the woman suddenly reappeared with catalogs.  He was being allowed to pick out his own clothes?!  Had he stepped into some bizarre faerie realm without realizing it?!  This time he remembered to be polite to the woman, and managed to get out a, “Thank ya, kindly,” before she closed the door and he was alone again.

Well… no reason not to get to it.  Taking off his meager clothes (but leaving the piercings in), the werewolf slipped into the steaming water with a happy sigh.  He couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a bath to himself.  A part of him wanted to stay here forever, but he knew better than to keep his new master waiting for too long.

Washing up took very little time, but then he stayed in the bath to enjoy the warmth while he looked through the magazines.  There was SO much!  From full dinner suits to accessories that cost more than most people made in a decade - Jesse’s mind boggled.  He knew he needed to pick things like he’d been told - but he also didn’t want to seem greedy.  In the end, the werewolf chose a fine suit of blue and maroon for the dinner.  Shimada had specified ‘formal,’ after all, which meant real clothes, not underthings.  Then he picked a loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirt of deep red and a pair of tanned leather pants for casual wear.  Next he selected two pairs of boots - one for the dinner and one meant more for everyday.  He was careful with the things he selected.  Everything was pricey, but he tried to choose items where the price still felt practical.

Then his eyes settled on just about the finest belt buckle he’d ever seen.  Completely impractical - being made of three different kinds of gold.  Soft metals and belt buckles didn’t really mix, but oh, it was a thing of beauty.  Artfully designed with a detailed mountain range in the background and a cowboy leading pack horses in the foreground.  Around the edges were detailed carvings of specific plants and flowers.  The price was… well, it made his head ache.  There was no way Shimada would spend that much  on him - Jesse was certain.  But this game was all about testing and learning limits.  How would his new Master react to him even daring to ask for it?  There was only one way to find out.

piercedflora​:

‘Out of it’ was an understatement for the state Hanzo was in when he first entered Jesse’s apartment. Thankfully, Hanzo’s mind cleared considerably once he was able to lay down and the flow of blood had slowed. Now the acute pain of his injury, spiking with small waves, and the pinch of a needle piercing his skin, helped him focus long enough to inspect the hand holding his wound closed.

“Who - who ever did yours - must have been a master a-as well,” Hanzo replied through grit teeth, and his eyes snapped shut as he fought another wave of pain. He knew just enough about tattooing to know tattoos over scars were not easy, and for it to look realistic enough for Hanzo not to notice the scar tissue it hid meant the artist was extremely talented. A full sleeve must have taken a lot of time, and on Jesse’s part, tattooing over scar tissue would typically be extremely painful.

He chuckled, or he tried to- as it came out more like a strained grunt.

“It is a great test of en-endurance,” he agreed, and his fingers twitched in his grip on the sheets. “You will - have to show me - your work,” Hanzo exhaled, and in a small way, it was Hanzo’s attempt at inching closer toward acceptance of his situation. The deep despair looming over his head felt no less intense, but if he was was going to be spending a lot of time with Mcree, living with Mcree into the foreseeable future, it would be far less painful for the both of them if Hanzo tried. Hanzo had always been a realist, and if Genji refused to let him die, then that was the next logical step.

Hanzo sighed softly when Jesse announced his work was finished, and while the pain had not lessened, the tension wringing his body taught had eased.

He was about to ask who this Lucio was when, as if summoned, a soft click from the front door could be heard, followed by a soft, “Jesse?”

A moment later a short man with dark skin and long dreadlocks, pulled back with a hair tie, knocked on the door leading into the spare bedroom. He wore bright green scrubs with yellow trim, and Hanzo was surprised by the… warmth in the man’s expression. Even with the sympathetic smile he gave Hanzo, something that normally would have made the man bristle, the aura around him alone was enough to tell Hanzo the sympathy was not out of pity, but understanding.

“Hey Jesse, sorry it took me a while to get here. Genji texted me and I left my shift at the hospital as soon as I could,” the man pat Jesse’s arm as he passed, and he dropped a duffle bag beside the bed once he reached it.

Hanzo remained as stoic as he could with the occasional wave of pain, and he watched this stranger bend over him to inspect his wound in curious silence. He could only assume this was Lucio, but who was he really? What was his relationship with Genji? Another friend like this, Jesse?

“I’m Lucio,” the nurse explained with a smile, now aimed directly at Hanzo. “I’m Genji’s…” he paused, which did not go unnoticed, “…friend. I’m a nurse, I’m kinda Genji’s go-to for injuries.” Lucio chuckled, but Hanzo knew he was trying to breeze past his failed attempt at lying.

Hanzo had been trained from a young age to spot a lie, and Lucio certainly wasn’t good at it. Regardless, Hanzo didn’t press. He had a sneaking suspicion he knew what that hesitation could mean, and if Genji had kept this hidden as well…. it made Hanzo’s heart ache.

“You’re Genji’s older brother, right? Hanzo?”

Hanzo huffed and quickly looked away from those gentle, dark brown eyes. He expected pity, and yet there was none to be found in Lucio’s expression. How much did this man know about him? Why was he so unassuming?

“It seems - seems everyone knows me here,” he didn’t hide the bitterness in his tone, and he avoided eye contact from either man now. The slow creep of embarrassment was starting to become unbearable, and he suddenly longed for silence, a moment to himself to try and sort through the confused tornado of emotions spiraling through him. His instincts wanted nothing more than the opportunity to lick his wounds in private.

It seemed Lucio sensed this, and he took the bandages and tape from Jesse so he could dress Hanzo’s wounds. Outside of the wound Jesse had tended, Lucio dressed a few of the more superficial ones. He wrapped a long cut on Hanzo’s arm, a gash above his eyebrow, and a few cuts that marred his shoulders and chest. Lucio kept it silent and worked quickly, both of which Hanzo appreciated, and when he righted himself again he grabbed his duffle bag and fished out painkillers and antibiotics from a side pocket.

“Take these,” he set the pills and a bottle of water on the bedside table. “I’ll talk more to Jesse about what you’ll need, but for now, just rest.”

Hanzo nodded, but kept his gaze trained on the wall on the opposite side of the bed. The sooner the others left him to his thoughts, the better.

Lucio left it at that, and gestured for Jesse to follow him out of the room. The kitchen was their destination, and once there, Lucio set the duffle bag on the counter and explained its contents to Jesse.

“I know you know how handle a lot of this stuff, especially since that set of stitches was practically perfect,” Lucio gave Jesse a knowing look, “but if you need more of anything, let me know.” Bandages, antibiotics, painkillers, and a few extra things were packed neatly inside the bag, and when they were done Lucio zipped the bag back up.

“There’s one other thing,” Lucio started, and he glanced off to the side. “I… I know Genji means to tell you this when he sees you next, but part of his last text to me said he’s no idea when that’ll be, and I think you deserve to know this now, rather than later. You’re going to be spending a lotta time with him, and there are some… other health risks you should know about in his situation.” Lucio sighed softly, and he reached up to rub his opposite arm. He felt guilty sharing this secret, one Genji had been very, very reluctant to share with Lucio. Unfortunately, it was now Jesse’s responsibility to care for Hanzo, one thrust upon him by circumstance, and he’d need to be looking out for Hanzo in more ways than just stitching up a few cuts. Mcree deserved to know all of the pieces that had fallen into place.

“You… know Hanzo is an alpha, right? That’s what Genji’s told you, when he’s talked about his brother?” Lucio didn’t wait for a response. “Well, one of the most well-guarded secrets of their clan is that Hanzo… isn’t… actually an alpha.” Lucio watched Jesse for his reaction, but didn’t halt his explanation. “For all of the… archaic and sexist reasons you can image, having an omega be the notorious Shimada clan’s next heir was unheard of, and Genji explained to me that… Hanzo’s had exactly one heat. Immediately following the first, as a teenager, he was put on suppressants, and he’s never been taken off them. I can’t smell the same things you can, as a Beta, but according to Genji those fake pheromones mask any trace of what could have been Hanzo’s scent. It’s likely he’s been on them so long can’t even produce an omega scent, let alone one unique to him.”

Lucio paused at this point to let his words sink in. Suppressants had their uses, but it was common knowledge that extended use could have long-lasting, permanent health repercussions. Not having a unique scent – that wasn’t a great sign.

“To be honest, as a health professional, I’m surprised he hasn’t started to have problems at this point. I’d be expecting to see something strange in terms of his hormones or actual organ failure, but Genji has been keeping an eye out for those things for years and hasn’t seen any signs of complications.” Lucio sighed again, because now was the hard part. Getting Jesse on board.

“Genji has actually been anticipating this day for a while. He wasn’t hoping Hanzo would lose, but he’s was trying to set up a fail-safe for when that happened. It just came a lot sooner than he’d been expecting, and now we’re here.” Lucio gestured vaguely around them.

“What I’m getting at Jesse- is that it should be pretty obvious Hanzo can’t stay on suppressants. Unfortunately, Hanzo is – very, very stubborn, and if we mention the suppressants to him, there’s a good chance he’s gonna want to start taking them again. For Hanzo’s well-being, we can’t let him do that.” Lucio placed a hand on his hip, and the other reached up to rub at his temple. “I know it’s asking a lot, and you didn’t sign up to just – hide Genji’s fugitive brother in your home, but until we can figure out something more long-term, if he brings suppressants up can you just say you’ll talk to me about getting them and we’ll wait for Genji to figure out what to do? What I’m hoping is that he’ll just forget about them entirely, and we can just keep an eye on him. I know it’s… dishonest, but I think it’s the best thing for him now that he doesn’t have to take the damned things….”

Lucio looked apologetic as he finished, knowing full-well that it wasn’t fair for him to ask any of this of Jesse, but of all their friends Jesse would be the man he could ask.

Even not knowing the guy, Jesse was kind of pleased Hanzo tried to keep pace with the conversation.  Maybe it was an ingrained politeness thing, or maybe it was a way to not focus on everything else or maybe there was real interest there.  Jesse chose his own ego and let himself think the other man might be honestly interested in his art.  With a soft chuckle he replied, “Darlin,’ once yer all rested up, I’ll bring one a’ my books from the shop.  You can look to yer’s heart’s content.”

Was it weird that he was both relieved AND not when Lucio’s voice called from the front room?  Weird that he felt… almost protective of the man laid out in his guest room?  Jesse told himself it was just because Genji had entrusted Hanzo to him.  What else could it be?  But the feeling lingered as he stood back and watched Lucio check Hanzo over thoroughly - bandaging lesser injuries and working quickly, like the professional he was.  Jesse could tell (or maybe sense?) that Hanzo was ready for some privacy by the time pills were set on the nightstand.  Not that he blamed the man.  Shit had gone down.  The adrenaline was, no doubt, wearing off and he needed to decompress - preferably not in front of strangers.  Or that was Jesse’s assumption anyway.

Without protest, he followed Lucio down the hall and into his kitchen.  “A lifesaver, as always,” he said to the beta with a grin.  Let me know if you need anything for all a’ that, okay?”  He motioned to the bag of supplies.  Work was good and money was easy enough to come by.  He didn’t mind footing the bill.

As Lucio’s words became reluctant, the alpha got quiet, listening intently to all he was being told.  No doubt his face showed his shock over the revelation that Hanzo was an omega.  Shock… and maybe just a hint of personal realization.  But he didn't say anything, letting his friend continue.  The idea of an omega being on suppressants for so long floored him.  It was… barbaric!  To do that to anyone, let alone your own child!  Fucked up!  That’s what it was!

piercedflora​:

It was wildly innapropriate, how badly Ryu wanted to hear Jesse call him ‘darlin’ again with that attractive southern drawl. His cheeks warmed, but he kept his expression neutral in the hopes that Jesse wouldn’t notice. 

As he listened to Jesse and watched his mannerisms, Ryu noticed more and more just how handsome Jesse was. The line of his jaw, the way his lips quirked into a smile, the soft hum of his chuckle as Ryu sensed he might be feeling a little self-conscious as well- Ryu liked it all. He’d been attracted to Jesse since the first time he’d walked into the flower shop, but it wasn’t until now that Ryu noticed how hard he’d been trying to ignore the pull he felt simply with Jesse in the same room. Now those warm eyes tugged him even closer, and Ryu knew he’d already lost himself as soon as he’d walked through the door. 

Ryu blinked as he snapped out of his intense stare and back to the present. He should probably answer Jesse’s question.

“That is acceptable,” Ryu nodded. He hesitated for a moment as he debated what to say next. He wasn’t used to this type of thing, especially since they’d gone into hiding, and making small talk had never been his forte. 

“I…” he had to say something to show he was interested in more than just the tattoo, right? Hanzo looked off to the side, because looking directly into those eyes was a danger he couldn’t risk. “I- I look forward to your visit, Mcree.” Ryu’s cheeks warmed again, and this time he was sure it would be visible to the other man. So, in a weak attempt to hide it, Ryu bowed slightly, turned on his heel, and left the shop at a brisk walk. 

Ryu fought a mild sense of horror, over bowing so formally to Mcree, all the way back to the flower shop, where he found Genji smirking from behind the front counter. 

Genji propped his chin in his hand and gave Hanzo a playful once-over. It’d been a while since he’d seen Hanzo so flustered.

“[You went to see the cowboy, didn’t you?]” Genji asked in Japanese, and his green eyes sparkled with amusement when Hanzo simply huffed in response.

Jesse blinked as Ryu left the tattoo parlor.  Had… he just been bowed to?  A grin spread across his face.  “Well now,” he murmured to himself.  “Maybe what I’m feelin’ ain’t so one-sided after all.”  Immediately, he began doing flower research - specifically which varieties grew in Japan.  Based on what he knew of the florist and his brother, Jesse figured it was a safe bet that’s where they hailed from.  

Once he’d fully familiarized himself with drawing the flowers in question, he not only sketched out the full design, but also made several mock-ups of how it would look on Ryu’s arm.  Yeah, it might be overkill, but he really wanted to get this right.  Every day he’d still stop into the shop, chat with whichever brother was there, and buy a flower to take with him to work.  When it was Ryu, he’d talk about the progress on the sketch, but never showed it to him.  Jesse liked people to get the full effect of a piece, and that didn’t always happen if they saw it unfinished.

Then the big day finally came!  The ex-con always had a little nervousness when revealing a piece to a client for  the first time, but this felt like ten-fold what he normally felt.  He really wanted Ryu to like what he’d come up with.  Stepping into the flower shop, Jesse deflated just a little when he saw it was Midori, but he kept his smile on.