#powerfulreader

“E-Eobard…”

Laying on the bed in your apartment was not how you thought you would end up. Much less being here with the devious speedster. After that day that he’d somehow triggered your guardian transformation, you’d rushed back to your dimension. It took you a while to escape his very passionate kisses that day. A few of the elders didn’t truly believe what you were telling them. Because the second you stepped through the portal, your appearance had changed back to normal. But then you thought of him, and that kiss.

Like magic it sprouted, so did your rosy cheeks.

Safe to say all the elders were stunned.

Your friends were losing their minds. Somehow you’d gotten it back under control. When it was time to return to earth, you were a bit anxious. Eobard’s kisses, touches, were still fresh in your mind. That’s why you tried to sneak back into your apartment. Apparently he was waiting for you. All you saw was the flash of his lightning and you were pinned to the bed.

“Running from me?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“N-No!!”

He didn’t believe a word.

“Your form, it changed back.” You swallow.

“I-I think I have it under control now.”

He was still wearing a weird expression.

After a few seconds he released you, moving off the bed.

“If you hated me touching you that much you should have just said so. There was no need to run.” He didn’t understand why he was so irritated. Team Flash already saw him as a monster. He could care less. But for some reason, the thought of you thinking that made him uneasy.

“I can’t believe this.”

He really had gotten complacent. He let his guard down.

You rose from the bed slowly.

“I didn’t hate it.”

Now you’re looking at him, and that pink light has returned to your eyes.

“You have no idea how strong this is. I always thought that love was just this emotional connection. I was naive. I’m a cupid and there is still so much I don’t know. I’ve never been this out of control before. “

He’s a bit stunned when that pink aura returns to your skin. Your hair is once again growing in length. This time however, you don’t look as panicked. If anything you look more sure.

Confident.

When those eyes land on him, his unease quickly turns to desire. He’s baffled, hand reaching to press against his chest.

“Why…is it so hot…?”

Your marvel at him, approaching slowly.

“You..feel it too?”

He nods, panting.

“It’s…so strong.” He gasps.

“That’s exactly how I feel..about you.” You explain.

He would never understand what you saw in him. It didn’t make sense. He was a literal monster. Yet, you look at him like he’s some saint. Like he can be redeemed from all the wrong he’s done. He feels like it’s possible just from your eyes.

“Sit.”

It’s an order that you make, but it doesn’t sound that demanding. More like a request. Your face still reflects that innocence he’s seen from day one. Eobard nods, responding eagerly. He moves to the bottom of the bed, taking a seat. You follow, slipping into his lap. His hands come up, gripping your thighs. The friction is delicious. You rock into him, and he grunts, closing his eyes. You whimper.

“Lay back.”

He does as you say, laying back. He could barely believe this was happening. He felt somewhat drugged. Intoxicated on your looks, smell.

Touch.

You lower, and he anticipates every move. Your hands run down his chest, gripping the edge of his shirt. You lift it, relishing in the taunt muscles that lay underneath. You’re breathless. Pulling up the shirt, he assists eagerly. The minute it’s off, he tosses it. When his hands lower, he just admires the view of you on top of him. Claiming him.

Neither of you make a move. For a while you just admire him.

“I asked why my form changed from something as minor as a kiss. Do you know what the elders told me?” He shakes his head, and you run your thumb over his lower lip. You're now chest to chest. Eobard groans, because he can feel everything, and he’s positive you can too. He can read it on your face.

“They said that only unfiltered love could have presented such an outcome. Love like that has not been seen for centuries. “

Eobard gulps.

It was much easier to hide feelings with harsh words. But how could he lie now when you were presenting him with celestial evidence that he cared for you more than he let on.

“Do you…really..love me?”

There’s a hopeful look in his eyes. Eobard catches himself.

He looks away.

“I don’t deserve love.”

“That’s not what I asked.”

He grows silent, and you pull your hand away.

He’s ready for this. For you to leave him. That’s what he deserves. Someone as terrible as him should not have a happy ending. It wasn’t in his design.

“So you hate me.”

His eyes widened.

Eobard bites his lip to stop the words from leaving his mouth. He’d almost yelled how false that statement was. It seems that you have caught on.

“You hate me. You detest me. You wish I never existed.”

That seems like the push he needed, because he flips you over. Your back hits the bed, and he pins your hands down.

“How could you say something so foolish!” He looks enraged.

“Ever since you showed up my mind has been at war with my body. The minute you told me that foolish story of being a cupid. The second I tried to run and you held my hand, I convinced myself that I needed to hate you. I needed to carry the same malice I had for Barry. But you kept indulging me. Indulging my wants, my desires. I should hate you…I should detest your very existence because everything you stand for has always been something I could never have. “ His jaw is clenched, and tears gather in your eyes.

“But instead I fell in love with you.”

His expression grows soft, and you’re shocked.

Eobard’s hold on your wrist loosens.

“Tell me you hate me. Tell me that there is no way someone as innocent and pure as you can ever love me. Tell me you detest me..” It’s a whisper, and he pressed his head into your shoulder.

“Tell me..”

He’s practically begging.

You lift your hand, running your fingers along his back.

“I love you.”

He exhales, holding unto you.

“I love you Eobard Thawne.”

He realizes at that moment that it’s too late.

“We’re going to leave Central City. It’ll just be the two of us. No heroes or villains. Just you and me. How does that sound?”

“Oh, it’s like he gets cuter every time!” Garcia gushes.

Jack runs right into Garcia’s awaiting arms giggling. Hailey smiles from her spot, adjusting the bag on her shoulder.

“Thank you for doing this Aaron.” He shakes his head.

“Take your son to work, I’d never miss it.” She smiles, and he returns it.

“S-Sorry I’m late!”

The female voice calls from the elevator. Hotch turns, and so does the rest of the team. Morgan laughs.

“You’re good, we’d hate to watch you fall because of your eagerness.” You flush. He was right. When Hotch informed everyone he’d be bringing Jack to work today, you were ecstatic.

“Look what I got.”

It’s a makeshift FBI badge. There’s a little clip, much like the ones you wear. Jack pulls away excitedly. Running to your side. You lean down to give him the little toy.

“Aunty (Y/N)!!”

You’re a bit stunned when he wraps his little arms around your neck, hugging you happily. Everyone looks relatively surprised. This was your first meeting, yet he was acting like he’d known you for a while now.

“I missed you.” He whispers.

You pull back to stare at him. It was strange, it was almost like he remembered you.

“Thank you for saving my mommy.”

You gape.

“Jack you’re…”

He nods, with a grin. You’re astonished. You can’t stop the smile that spreads on your lips.

“You’re welcome.”

“Are you guys speaking telepathically?” Morgan jests.

Jack places a finger on his lips.

“Shhhh, it’s a secret.”

They start laughing. Hotch’s stare has now settled on you.

“It’s nice to meet you Ms. Black. Aaron has told me a lot about your work on the team. Jack also seems to be in love with you." Hailey giggles. You stand, reaching over and shaking her hand. She pauses for a moment, like she’s studying you. The smile on your face is brilliant, and Hailey finds herself smiling too.

“It’s nice to meet you too. May I just say that you are beautiful. Hotch’s description doesn’t do you justice. I see where Jack gets his looks from.” Hailey blushes at the compliment.

“Well thank you. I like her Aaron.”

Laughter fills the hallway, and Jack takes your hand.

“Can you show me around Aunty (Y/N).” You look back at Hotch and Haliey. They nod, and Garcia gasps dramatically.

“I’ve been betrayed.”

He shakes his head cutely, and she waves. You attach the little badge to his shirt. You both take off as the team slowly disperses. Hailey is standing there watching you chat happily as you walk down the hallway.

“Aaron, maybe it’s just me but there’s something about her. "

Hotch listens attentively.

“It’s hard to explain. It’s similar to what I felt like when Foyet was…” She took a breath, and Hotch rests a hand on her shoulder.

“I don’t know what it is but I just feel as though I can..”

“Trust her.”

Hotch finished.

If Hotch felt the same, then her gut had to be right.

He didn’t need to question it anymore. Of course when you joined, he was on edge. This was Strauss’s doing. But he could not feel any ill will from you.  You got along with the team beautifully. Like you’d know them all your life.

“Maybe she’s a guardian angel.” Hailey jokes.

Hotch smiles.

"I want you to scrub the deck for prints. Make sure it's spotless. I need names for every last one of them. I want to know every piece of information down to the name of their dog. " Vincent gave orders to the many agents that filed around the deck as they secured the men.

You and Raph were seated on the side. All Raph had done was make a call, and in a couple of hours, the place was crawling with people from departments you didn't even know existed. You had no idea he had such connections. But you were grateful nonetheless. Frankly you were surprised the boat had remained afloat after the damage you did. 

His brothers had been alerted the second they heard from Vincent that Raph was found. The reunion was heartwarming. All three brothers had basically tackled him to the ground. Now everyone was working together to put these criminals, or smugglers to justice. From what you overheard, certain details would be omitted. Like the existence of four giant green mutant turtles. As well as a girl who could shoot beams out of her hands.

Leonardo was helping to delegate duties. Donatello hacked into every electronic device on board to pinpoint other locations that were possibly fronts for something more. Michelangelo was dealing with criminal transportation. You and Raph were currently indulging in some delicious pizza.

Vincent took a seat next to you offering a napkin which you took happily.

"I'm sorry that we didn't find you sooner Rapheal." There was a bit of guilt on the blond's face, and you turned to Raph. He wiped his mouth with a grin.

"No worries, I got the feeling Leo was driving you up the wall searching for me." Vincent nodded, eyes moving to said turtle.

"From what I heard, he barely slept. The only time he got rest was when he was meditating. We were scared that they'd left the country. When I caught the signal I was relieved. They were right outside the boarder of Hawaii. Looks like they traveled to and from the port every couple days to avoid suspicion. No one even thought twice to ask about it. There are so many contractors set up in these waters. They would have gone on for months even years if you both hadn't stopped them. Once again I'm in your debt."

"Happy to help." Raph said coolly. You sent a smile at the woman, and she patted your shoulder, standing as she continued on task. When you looked back at Raph, he appeared thoughtful.

"Ya don't like talking to people you don't know?"

You nodded, looking down at your legs.

"Was it because of him?"

You didn't need the name, you knew who he meant. You just shook your head, looking at your hands. Raph understood now, the gesture you'd made that day.

"Before, ya were trying to tell me about ya powers weren't ya." Another nod. Raph didn't need all the details. In the short time you knew each, he trusted you with his life. Literally. You were one of the sole reasons he was still alive. He reached over cautiously, taking your hands softly. Your eyes met, and he sent you a smile that made all your problems feel as though they would just wash away.

"Vincent will keep you safe, I promise."

You tightened your hold on his hand. This is what you were afraid of. Your eyes were pleading, and Raph shook his head.

"Ya can't stay with me. They need to give ya a fresh start so you'll be able to protect yourself. Then maybe one day, we can meet again. I can thank ya properly with all the pizza ya want."

A few tears fell from your eyes, and Raph wiped it away, pulling you into a hug.

The last thing he wanted to do was separate from you either, but this was for the best. Vincent explained the extent they need to go to make sure you were never taken again. There were people out there that knew of your powers, so there would be a target on your back. Your safety was the top priority.

Leo caught the exchange from the other side of the boat, tightening his fists. After he heard the story, he understood Raph's protectiveness. He owed you, they all did.

"Thank you for everything.." You whispered into his ear. Raph chuckled.

If anyone should be saying thank you it was him.

Barry wasn’t fully convinced that this woman wasn’t a threat, so he stayed on guard. Right now she was staying at Star Labs until you could leave. Presently, she’s seated in the med area, eyes staring at the wall. HR knocks at the door and her gaze turns. 

“Heya! Thought you might be hungry.” 

He placed the big belly burger bag down with a smile. She shifted a bit uneasily. 

She wasn’t blind, they were all a bit stiff around her, except for you and now HR. 

“Aren’t you afraid of me?” 

“I could never be afraid of you.” She means to call him out on a lie, but the way his eyes convey so much fondness, it’s hard to do. 

“I’m not her, you know. We may be doppelgangers, but we’re vastly different. “ 

“You’re still (Y/N).” 

She looks down at her feet.

“You know she might die. They aren’t weak like the beings in this dimension. “

“I know that.” He removed his hat. 

“I’m afraid that I’ll lose her.” 

He knew he wouldn’t be able to talk you out of it. Now more than ever you would be driven to go. You felt responsible for the pain your other half was now feeling. You relate with it. Her eyes mark everything. 

“Harrison.” The use of his name is a bit strange. No one had called him Harrison in years. He moves closer at the gesture she makes. When she holds out a hand to shake, he senses no ill intentions. It’s almost like an invitation. HR wears a smile, reaching and taking her hand. When their palms touch, his eyes widen. 

“HR.” 

Your call catches his attention. He turns, and you walk inside. 

“I’m pretty much packed for tomorrow. The sooner we leave the better. “

This is the goodbye he’s been dreading. You stare at your doppelganger, and HR eyes shift as she lays on the bed, turning her back to the both of you. You get the message, walking outside as you slide the door close. Both you and HR head towards the speed lab where pretty much everyone else is conversing. When you get there, Barry’s straightens. 

“How is she doing?” 

“As good as you can expect. My plan had been to stay here a few more days, but I think I’ll be leaving tomorrow. This threat is more dangerous than we realize. I can’t risk any more of them jumping through here. We need to take the fight to them. Cisco, is everything ready?” 

“I’m vibing and ready to go, just say when. “ 

That’s one less thing to worry about. 

“HR while I’m gone I’d really like it if you could-” 

“I’m going with you.” 

Your brows knit. 

Harry folds his arms, and Caitlin sends him a sympathetic look. 

“HR, you can’t. We have no idea how the atmosphere there will affect you. (Y/N) has her ring, that may be the one thing that can stand universal changes. “ 

You know he’s scared. So are you. But you can’t risk him going there. 

“I know how you feel, HR, trust me.” 

“You have no idea how I feel. “ 

This time, it’s different. His tone, his expression. 

“I love you. I’m in love with you. I’d die for you (Y/N).” You let out a breath, swallowing at the purpose in his voice. 

“I’m going with you.” HR opens his palm, and you’re stunned at the brilliant pink glow that emits from the ring in his hand. Everyone is just as taken. You gasp. 

“H-HR where did you..” 

“He has all the prerequisites for a lantern.”

Your doppelganger steps out from the hallway. 

“I thought I imagined it when we first met. That glow in his eyes. The light I sensed when he was near you. It’s not a coincidence. He’s the same as my Harrison. He has the same need to protect you. The one I’ve always held for my husband. “ 

She no longer has a ring on her finger, and suddenly it makes sense. 

“I’m done fighting. I think the reason I was brought here wasn’t for revenge. I suppose the universe knew this battle was over for me. The same way it knows there’s one waiting for the both of you. A fight only you two can stop.” She shoves her hands in her pockets. 

“I can’t make up for all the lives I took with some twisted ideal of love, but I know that I can do this. You’re meant to do great things, I knew it the moment I saw both of you.” She turns to you. 

“Don’t make the same mistake I did. Let him fight by your side, not from the sidelines. If things get too hairy, I’ll be there. You know how to call me Harrison.” She turns her wrist, and the ring in his hand gives a slow pulse. She smiles. 

“Don’t go getting killed, otherwise I’ll hunt you down myself. “ 

That’s the last thing she says before she flicks her wrist. You don’t see much, she steps through what looks like an invisible wall. In a matter of seconds, she’s gone. You can’t do much more than gape. 

“Well damn, you’re a lantern too. I could use one of those snazzy rings.” 

Cisco reached for the ring, plucking it from HR’s hand. The second HR is no longer holding it, the light vanishes. Cisco turns it, inspecting it carefully. 

“Huh.” 

He hands it back to HR, and the light returns with a vengeance. HR looks almost hypnotized. 

Barry and Caitlin wear a small smile.

“I guess there isn’t much of a choice. You were chosen, HR.” 

You’d like to deny it, but it seems true. You’d been so hell bent on protecting everyone that you forgot that HR was feeling just as helpless. His pleading eyes turn on you. 

“Please, let me fight with you.”

At this point he’s begging. You take his hands, nodding. 

“Alright.” 

HR’s face lights up immediately, and he hugs you so tightly. You return it, burying your face into his shoulder. 

Sometimes you needed to remind yourself that you didn’t have to do it all on your own. 

You had friends. 

Fighting alongside the turtles was not something you truly thought would happen. But it did. You were a part of their little vigilante team, and truthfully, it was nice. Not only were you taking down bad guys, but your new friends made you feel like you had a purpose. All your life you’d been labeled a troublemaker.

When you met the boys, you decided then you would be better. They changed your outlook on life. The least you could have done was try. And you were. You didn’t have the best temper, so it wasn’t easy, but some effort was better than none right?

That Friday night, you were all coming back from a successful patrol. You grinned, giving Raph a high five. Mikey was behind you with a laugh.

“That was awesome (Y/N)!!” You came out of nowhere and you were like, pow, pow, pow!” He continued to make punching noises. Donnie and Leo followed in after.

“What can I say, I’m just that good.” you dropped onto the couch. Leo walked over, arms folded. You rolled your eyes, sighing dramatically.

“What is it, oh wise leader?” Raph snickered at your mocking tone.

“I told you to stand down, we had him covered, you could have gotten hurt.”

“Stand down and let you guys have all the fun. Please.”

“He had a gun, what would you have done if you got shot.”

“Leo, I have super strength, I’m pretty sure I can handle a few bullet wounds.”

“You’re not bulletproof. That’s it. You’re benched (Y/N).”

“What!” you stood, and Raph moved over.

“Leo, come on, she was just having fun. You ain't gotta bench her.”

“Stay out of this Raph!” He didn’t stand down, and neither did you.

“Just because I didn’t do it the way you wanted you’re punishing me. We're fine, why are you being such a hardass?”

“Because the next time you decide to have fun instead of following orders you could put one of us in danger. Until you understand the meaning of team you’re not doing anymore patrols.” Splinter stood in the background, and you turned to him with pleading eyes.

“Master Splinter please I-”

“I’m sorry. I have to respect Leonardo’s decision.” You couldn’t believe this. Donnie and Mikey were watching from the sidelines. Mikey’s head lowered, and you gritted your teeth, fists clenched.

“Fine.” Turning, you were heading out of the lair.

“(Y/N).” you stop, but you don’t look at him, you can’t.

“I’m not trying to punish you, I just want you to be safe.’’ you scoff.

“Whatever.”

Leo knows it’s for the best. How else was he supposed to keep you out of harm’s way? Yet, watching you look that defeated, it kind of hurt him. His intention wasn’t to punish or belittle you.

Your footsteps get further away, and Raph is wearing a pissed look.

“Ya always been hard on her.” The entire time Raph was ranting, Leo’s eyes were fixed on where you’d walked out.

“Ya even listening!!”

It took Raph a while, but his eyes seem to catch something. Leo was distracted, and it dawned on him the reason behind it. A smile made its way on his face.

“Damn.”

Leo turns at the change in tone.

“You got a thing for her.” Leo’s eyes widened, and Mikey looked invested now.

“No way!” Donnie seemed surprised as well.

“S-Shut up Raph!”

“Ya aint deny it.” Raph teased. Leo huffed, and Splinter wore a smile.

“I understand that you’re worried for her, but you need to keep in mind that she is young like you. She’s a headstrong child. “

Splinter was right. It dawned on Leo that stopping you from joining them just meant you’d go out on your own. He sighed heavily.

“Better keep a close check on your girlfriend."

Raph was enjoying this a little too much.

~~~

That night, Leo was sure they would run into you on patrol, but they didn’t. It surprised him. A part of him just assumed that you made a decision to avoid areas where they would be. You knew their routine. But when patrol was over, he made his way over to your apartment. He slid down the wall, knocking on the glass.You moved closer, opening it. Surprise is clear on your face. You ushered him in quickly, looking from side to side. Shutting the door, you rambled.

“Leo you have to be careful, even though it’s a few blocks from the campus there are still a lot of people here. Someone could have seen you.”

You slid the curtains closed, and he smiled. He expected you to be pissed, not worried for him. When you look back at him, you scan his body.

“Are you alright, did you get hurt on patrol? I have a few bandages. Your body is a bit bigger but I’m sure I can put something together. “ You were about to head into the kitchen. But he shakes his head, blocking your way.

“I’m fine, there’s no need for that. “

“Then why are you here?”

Leo rubbed his neck, and from the look, you could guess what he was thinking. You took a step back, annoyed.

“Wow, you didn’t think I’d actually follow through and stay away did you. So you came to check on me. Unbelievable.” Now you were upset and Leo felt stupid.

“Guess you really don’t trust me with anything huh.” The hurt that was now on your face had him questioning everything.

“That’s not true (Y/N), I do trust you it’s just..”

“I get it. Honestly I’d think the same. I know sometimes I’m a loose cannon but I, I really am trying.”

He knew that, of course he did. It didn’t mean he wouldn’t stop worrying.

You sat down on your couch, leaning back as you looked up at the ceiling.

“When you said that it…made me feel like how I did when I was still with my parents. I moved out to show them I could take care of myself, that I wasn’t a screw up.”

The minute you turned eighteen you’d left. Fresh out of high school, you picked up a part time job and took classes at the university nearby. You wanted to prove that you had more to offer than bloody noses and disappointment.

“I was tired of being compared, scared of failing them. That’s why I acted out in high school. I thought that if their expectations of me were always low, then I’d never have to worry about being a disappointment."

Now he felt like a complete idiot.

Leo took a seat on the couch, and you jolted when you slid right into his shoulder.

“Sorry.”

You smiled, shaking your head.

“(Y/N), you’re not a disappointment. You’re amazing.” For a brief moment you were about to point out that he didn’t have to flatter you to make you feel better. But his eyes were trained on you, and you couldn’t spot a lie.

“The reason I’m so hard on you isn’t because I don’t trust you. I guess I just don’t trust myself…” He looks away.

“You’re strong, I know that but whenever we go out there I’m scared something will happen and I won’t be able to save you. If that were to happen it would..that would kill me.”

“Leo..”

As the leader you know he’s burdened with a lot.

You reach over, taking his hand. When he meets your gaze, you smile.

“You don’t have to save everyone on your own all the time Leo. Isn’t that what a team is for? I know you have my back, so does Raph, and Donnie and Mikey. Not to mention Master Splinter. So stop trying to be the hero all on your own. Alright. I’ll work on my ability to take orders, I promise.” Leo chuckles.

“Are you sure you can handle that?”

“Hey!”

He smiles, squeezing your hand.

“I think we both need to learn to rely on each other more.”

“Mostly you though.”

He shakes his head with a laugh.

“Of course.” He replies.

It’s crazy how easily it feels to be with HR. Not much has changed, except now the both of you aren’t walking around in circles. You’re heading towards the cortex with a cup of coffee in your hand for a certain someone. You smile just thinking about it. As you step in, you can see Cisco quarreling with HR who is putting up decorations. 

“HR you really don’t have to decorate everytime there is a holiday.” Cisco lectures. The bright green littered all over the room has you smiling. 

“St. Patrick's Day, we have to celebrate!” HR says from on top of the ladder.

 “Just one more.” 

He stretches to get to a spot, and you see his feet slip. He yells, and you feel your body move almost automatically. You slide under his body catching him. Cisco, Caitlin and Harry stare. You’re now wearing your suit, and you place him gently on his feet. 

“HR a-are you alright?!!” You inspect him frantically. He nods, clearing his throat. 

“I’m sorry, that was very hot.” He mutters under his breath. You sigh in relief, cheek a light shade of red. 

“I swear you’ll give me a heart condition. Please be careful.” 

The blue suit slowly retracts from your skin, and you place your hands on your hips. 

“I’m sorry, I just wanted to make this holiday great for you since I messed up your birthday last time. I figured you’d be so impressed and then give me a big reward.” He says childishly. 

“I may not be as good a kisser as Harry but I’m sure we can-”

“Wait what?” 

HR points at Harry. 

“Well you’ve already kissed Harry so I thought I’d have a lot to live up to.” Barry walks in at just the right time apparently. He sort of shimmies to Cisco’s side. 

“What’s going on?” He whispers. Cisco is nibbling on a twizzler with a grin. 

“This just got good, have one.” He holds out the snack for Barry who takes one, listening to the conversation. 

“Who told you I kissed Harry?” He points to Harry. 

“Harry!!” You scold. 

“I apologize, the both of you were acting so terribly awkward. I was trying to help.” 

“So you didn’t kiss Harry?” 

“Of course not! I’d never kiss Harry.” 

“Hey!!” 

They both said, offended. 

“S-Sorry I just mean..” Sometimes you forgot they had the same face. They were just so vastly different. 

“HR, trust me what Harry and I have is completely platonic. He’s like family.” 

“That’s good to know. Phew.” 

You direct your glare at Harry who makes an excuse, walking away. Now that he’s gone, you take notice of the audience you have. Your blank expression says it all. They each go scrambling in different directions. You sigh.

“I’m sorry about that.” HR says. 

“You don’t have to apologize.” 

You know that despite your reassurance, there is still a part of him that will always be a bit insecure. Especially when he was constantly surrounded by heroes and geniuses. Hell, you were a scientist/bountyhunter/blue lantern. 

That was a lot to compete with. 

“HR, I promise you don’t have to be perfect, and you certainly don’t have to overdo it to impress me. Just keep being you. I can’t ask for much more than that. “ To you, HR was incredible. He gave his all to this team. He literally traveled to another earth. He could have left ages ago. But he stayed to help. He never once returned your previous hostility with resent. 

He understood your struggles, accepted you and even helped you through them. If he hadn’t kept pushing, you’d probably still walk around assuming the worst of everything and everyone. He made you better. In a way, he’s the reason you’d been able to manifest your hope into sheer power. HR blinks when your suit suddenly reappears. Your eyes are most likely glowing again too. 

“Is something wrong, a threat?!” He looks around, raising his hands in what you assume is a defensive position. 

“N-No nothing’s wrong I don’t..I don’t know why it just popped up like that.” HR moves closer, studying the insignia. 

“Does it usually just appear like this? Other than when you’re all in fight mode I mean.” 

“Not really. “ Your eyes move to the ring that’s glowing. 

“I was just thinking about you and it..” Your words fall off. You’re still trying to work through the kinks of it all. 

“You were thinking of me?” 

You blink, and then his question registers. 

“N-Not in a weird way or anything. Just more of our first meeting you know. How much that has changed. How much the both of us have..” 

HR is smiling, and you barely finish the sentence. He takes another step, leaning down. You’re silenced by the warmth of his lips. The content sound that leaves you makes him smile. It appears you’d been anticipating this for sometime. Your hand reached up, and you accidentally knocked the hat off his head. HR’s hands circle your waist, pulling you flush to him. 

He can physically feel the energy that is radiating from your body. It feels strangely nice. He walks you back, and your legs hit a desk. You moan when he reaches down, lifting your hips and placing you on the table. You part for a brief second, and your breathing is labored. This time it feels as though HR is the one whose eyes are shining. They look so beautiful, completely focused on you.

“Was that okay..” It’s a tentative whisper. 

“Yeah..” 

You can’t formulate better words. It was incredible. 

“Okay then.” 

Dealing with this yellow suit wearing maniac was not how you thought you’d spend the night. As an ex citizen from Central city, you knew just about every villain that came out of the tragedy of the explosion. Every day a new one seems to arise, and since you liked having all your body parts as they were, you stayed caught up with the news.

That’s why you’d left the place for some much needed peace. 

Rockstone was quiet, and still pretty populated. It wasn’t that far away from Central City either, so you could still visit your family every now and then.

“You seem awfully calm for someone being threatened."

The dark haired male raised his vibrating hand, hoping to urge at least some kind of reaction. After being brought back and wiped from existence so many times, this time around he’d just been looking to have a little fun. Chasing Barry around was starting to get redundant. And then he supposed the hero had his own problems to deal with right about now.

He planned to stay as low key as possible until he could figure out what his next move was. So kidnapping an unsuspecting victim and forcing them to provide him shelter seemed like the best way to go.

“Not gonna lie, scared the shit outta me when you appeared out of that little portal. Really thought I dodged a bullet leaving CC. Just my luck.” you grumble. Sipping at your coffee, you adjusted your bag strap. “Sorry old man, got a job to get to so if you’ll excuse me.” you walk around him. It was already dark, and since you had a night shift at the university today, you really weren’t in the mood for this.

Your hair is taken with the whip of the wind, and it feels like a blink. Drink discarded on the ground, you stare in shock. He has you pinned to the wall, snare on his face, blue eyes emitting so much raw agitation. “I’d advise against mocking me.”

He’s started to vibrate, the red light overtaking his eyes.

“It’s not wise to test me.”

The echoing of his voice would bring any person to their knees in fear. The look in your eyes shifts from shock to annoyance. Your free hand is hanging at the side of your waist. You raise your palm, and he looks down just as a blue light shoots out. He’s gone once again, obviously not anticipating this. No longer forced up on the wall, you shrug your shoulders, straightening your shirt that was ruffled.

Eobard is now standing at a distance, intrigued. He halts his speed for a second to observe you. He’s positive he has no recollection of you. Being the evil genius that he is, he’s pretty much recorded all the villain metas in Central City. All those years travelling through time also played a big part in it. So why does he have no profile on you?

“Who are you?” He narrows his eyes, and all you provide is a smirk.

“I think you mean what.” You open both your palms, and your eyes are now emitting the same glow as your hands.

“Great.”

What in the world did he get himself into. He really had a knack for picking bad situations.

~Three Months Later~

“I could have just. “ He makes a hand motion, and you don't need to even guess what he means. This guy. You'd just been telling him about your experience yesterday with one of your peers.

“Now now, don’t make me put you to sleep again Bardy-poo. “ You could tell from his facial expression that the name was anything but desired.

“How long do you intend to keep me hostage?” you scoffed at his statement.

“Hostage, I’d like to think of it as a gracious service to society. “

Eobard was still glaring in your direction.

Running into you that night was such terrible luck on his part. He really thought he’d be lucky this time around, but he was dead wrong. You were unlike anything or one he’d ever met. Certainly not a meta. Since you weren’t exactly forthcoming about your origin, there wasn’t much to go on. What he did know is that every time he attempted to do something even remotely evil, you knew about it.

His powers also had very little effect on you. Trying on many occasions to drill a hand through your chest with no luck. You had him mentally and physically subdued. What’s even worse is he was trying to avoid time travelling, cause that would catch Barry’s attention, and the prospect of the male finding him was even less appealing. With nowhere to go, and you keeping him on a tight watch, his only option was to stick around.

It wasn’t like he was completely stranded. He had means to get by for moments like this. With his abilities he could take whatever he wanted without so much as a flinch. You apparently didn’t care much for his little adventures as long as no one got dead. For all intents and purposes, he was a free man, minus the unnamed being keeping him on a leash.

“I can feel you plotting from all the way over here. Something you’d like to share with the class?”

“Will you remove the bind?” He asked. You click your tongue.

“You know I can’t do that. Evil villain and all. I wouldn't sleep very well if I knew you were out there impaling civilians. “

His eyes were still marking you, and you shifted, brows knitting.

“Well...I’m gonna go because that look is a bit off putting.”

Moving to pick up your cup of coffee and head for the door, you’re once again trapped between the speedster and the wall. You’re about to give him another snarky retort, but you become a little distracted by how deliciously rosy his lips are.

You divert your eyes quickly before your mind can stray any further. He doesn’t speak for a moment, and for a second you almost think he’s trapped in the same haze you are. He’d obviously prepared something diabolical to say, but like some of your most recent interactions, his usual malicious intent is missing.

“So, you're gonna say something or are you trying to relive some Korean drama scene."

He blinks, then takes notice of the position. You’re a bit confused at the lost look on his face. If you didn’t know any better you would have said he didn’t intend to do that. Taking a step back, the coldness returns to his eyes, and just like that he takes off. You release a breath.

“It’s getting harder.”

This little ploy was becoming difficult to keep up. If he ever figured it out you’re not sure what his reaction will be. Your reason for doing this has greatly changed from the beginning.

~~~~~~

The little mental battle has been going on all day.

You could barely focus on anything even when you were teaching your criminology class. That night walking to your door, you felt heavy. Not just from the secret you were keeping from Eobard, but also the feelings you’d lectured yourself not to grow.

The dark haired male is not a good man. You keep telling yourself that. But you’d hope that these months being around you would change that. He hadn’t hurt anyone since his arrival. You honestly thought that you could change him for the better. Opening the door, you step in. The area is silent, and it sort of makes you a tad bit suspicious.

“Eo-”

“Good evening.” You jump, glaring in his direction as you push the door close. He’s sitting on the couch casually like he didn’t just scare the shit out of you.

“Geez don’t do that!!”

He’s once again strutting that stupid smirk.

“It’s uncomfortable isn’t it, when things happen that we have no control over. Surprises.” you squint.

“Why do I feel like that has some alternate meaning."

He’s dressed in dark clothing, glasses perched on his nose. Everything about his body language tells you something is up. With his attention now fixed on you, the bag in your hand is placed on the counter. You’re preparing for anything. As you’ve realized Eobard is very unpredictable.

“I’m done playing your game, release me at once. “

Trying not to pay much mind to his request, you walk past him.

“Come on, we've been at this for months. I can’t let you go on a rampage. Innocent lives and all. If you really wanna blame someone then blame yourself. What are the odds that out of all of the people here you decided to grab me right?” you laugh, but you don’t receive any in return.

“You’re under the impression that this is a game.”

Eobard knows there’s no harm he can inflict on your body, doesn’t mean his actions don’t make you nervous. He approaches slowly, but with purpose. With your back now to the fridge, you try to move to an area where you won’t feel as trapped. Eobard in no way allows this. His hands press into the cool surface of the fridge.

“Y-You know this fetish you seem to have with pushing me against stuff is getting kind of old.” Who were you kidding, shit was driving you mad.

“You can’t keep me here.”

There was no humor in his voice. Just flat out hostility. Yet he wasn’t emitting the anger you knew he had inside. Just because he couldn’t kill you didn’t mean he couldn’t hurt you. You’re positive he’s realized that by now. The prospect of him leaving, somehow it caused an ache in your heart. Eyes connected, it was impossible for you not to look so vulnerable.

“I-If you really want to leave then just go.” you willed your body not to shake, but it was becoming difficult to even keep your tears at bay. “Are you toying with me?” He clenched his fist.

You shook your head, lowering your eyes. Why did you have to feel guilty for keeping the truth from him. The guy wasn’t exactly an upstanding citizen. “I’m not. You can leave Eobard. “

His eyes grew a little wide at the information. 

“I’m not a witch, or a metahuman. I’m just a mutant.” you state. 

“It’s how I’m able to produce barriers like the one I placed on you. It can only be sustained for a maximum of three weeks. It’s taken me years to get to that point of control. You just assumed I always had the barrier up after a month, and I never corrected you because I was trying to keep people safe.”

That wasn’t your only reason.

This entire time he’d been trying to solve your mystery when the answer was right in front of him. It still made no sense. Why didn’t he leave?

“The only reason you’re still here is because you want to be.” Eobard took a step back.

“That can’t be right, why would I want to be stuck in this wretched town.”

All you offer is a smile. At the back of your mind you hope it’s because he’s grown closer to you than he wants to admit.

“I’ve been wondering the same for weeks now. “

You aren’t sure what else can be said. Thankfully you haven’t started breaking down. You sort of want him to leave so you can have the privacy to do so. You take a breath, forcing a confident smile on your face. “Well the cat’s out of the bag so I guess this is goodbye. Just because I can’t hold you doesn’t mean I won’t know when you’re causing mayhem. Better not fall back to your old ways.”

You refuse to look him in the eye, so you have no idea what kind of expression he’s wearing.

Eobard steps forward and grabs your arm.

“Wha-” your swept right off your feet, and you grunt when your back suddenly comes in contact with the softness of your mattress. Eobard is hovering over your body, and you realize he’s just taken you into the bedroom without so much as an explanation. Not just that, but the hunger behind those dark rimmed glasses is enough to turn you into putty.

“W-What are you doing!!”

“Testing a theory.”

“The fu-” His lips collide with yours and your eyebrows shoot up. If you had expected something, it wasn’t this. His entire body is now pressed into you. You’ve held your breath, whimpering.

This is bad, wrong even. His hands are pressed into the mattress, as he shows no signs of moving, or slowing down. His lips are moving eagerly against yours, and at some point your body has started to respond. You reach up, grabbing a fistful of his black shirt, forcing him closer. Your kisses are desperate now, and raw. One of his hands lands on your thigh, trailing up your leg. Because you’re wearing a dress, you can feel his palm against your skin. You moan, and he takes full advantage, slipping his tongue in.

“So good..”

He tastes amazing. His kisses are even more incredible. If you never came up for air that would be too soon. Eobard parts for the breath you are both in need of. Sapphire orbs have changed to navy, and it elects another needy moan from you. His hand is still on your thigh, caressing the skin teasingly. He’s so close to where you need him the most. Eobard takes pleasure in your soft cries. Now it all makes sense. The reason behind your need to keep him there, his apparent unconscious reluctance to leave you.

“Delicious.”

He licks his lips, pulling off his glasses and tossing them overhead.

“I hope you understand what you’ve gotten yourself into. “ You gulp.

Did you?

His lips hover over yours and the logical part of your brain has vanished. You lean up to connect, but he’s keeping you at a distance with that stupidly sexy smirk on his face."

”It appears I’m the one who has you bind now. “

What an unusual turn of events.

Ratchet settled back into domestic life.

A great sign.

You knew it would forever be weird for him whenever he changed into a human. But he seemed to be coping much better. Now that not just Optimus but Bumblebee were no longer running for their lives, he felt lighter. You could see the change. You were filling out some files while Ratchet assisted you in the office, a knock on the door making you turn.

"Room service!" You laugh.

"Stop messing around Jonathan."

Ratchet stopped his task, turning as the door opened. He studied everything. The way your eyes lit up when the male entered, the smile that was reflected on both of your faces. A frown made his way on his face when he saw the very man walk over and give you a hug.

"Who is this man?" You didn't appear uncomfortable by the action, and the only person you smiled like that when you hugged was him. Jonathan's gaze turned over.

"Hey! Nice to officially meet you. I'm Jonathan." He held out his hand, and Ratchet just looked at it.

"Ray."

He responded in a monotone. Your brows furrow at the hostility.

"Okay!"

Jonathan pulled back his hand, directing his gaze back to you. The conversation carried on, and you'd offer a word of two to get Ratchet to pitch in, but he'd just give one word replies. Jonathan eventually left, not before getting a glare from Ratchet.

"Hey are you okay?" He wasn't usually so standoffish.

"I'm fine." He didn't elaborate further. So you took his word for it. Getting back to work.

~

The question was itching him all day. A part of him knew it wasn't his place to question who you talked to. But he disliked how comfortable you were with the man. Sitting in the cafe, you ate your lunch, titling your head with a smile.

"What's on your mind, you've been giving me that look since we sat down. "

Maybe he wasn't as good at masking his emotions as he initially thought.

"That man from earlier, you have feelings for him." Ratchet's question catches you a little off guard. He refuses to look at you, and you slow your step.

"Guy..oh you mean Jonathan! Trust me we're just friends."

"I don't like the way he looks at you."

"Ratchet, he has a wife." He blinks.

"I get why you would think that, we are close. I'm his daughter's godmother. We're like family. I'm the one that helped plan his proposal. "

"Oh." you can't help but laugh as you take a seat in the cafeteria.

"I know you're protective but you don't have to worry, I can take care of myself. "

It was a bit flattering, if you didn't know any better, you would have thought he was jealous.

"My mistake." He covers. You nibble on your snack, glancing at him.

"If..if I was interested in someone, would he care?"

You have half a mind to ask him, but what if you're wrong.

"You sound a bit jealous, Ratchet." you tried to play it off as a joke.

"I am." your cheeks flushed at his honesty. He didn't look the least bit embarrassed.

"Y-You really don't have to be." you hesitate for a split second, but then you reach over, taking his hand on the table. He looks down.

"I promise you I have no feelings for him."

Why were you trying so hard to reassure him, better yet, you should have just said the one you had feelings for was sitting right in front of you. Ratchet links your fingers, a satisfied look on his face.

"Very well, I suppose there is no need for me to worry then."

Gosh, this guy wasn't trying to give you a heart attack with that smile. You just nod bashfully.

"Yeah."

You can't say much more, because the rest of the break that you have, you spend with your hands linked.