depraved pretentious loser

Chapter 4: Circus tricks

Oh my fucking god? What is wrong with you? You try to hold your composure, taking in breaths before reappearing.

You wiggled your way out of his grasp, deciding to keep this newfound attraction hidden. You were still enemies at the end of this. This had to be some kind of cabin fever. You were going crazy. You had to be. You swung your fist towards him, clearly not fast enough as his hand caught yours. “Oops. Too slow.” He mocked, pinning your hand above your head. You tried to wiggle the other out before he gripped your other wrist too, paralyzing it near your head, parallel to your left hand.

Your breath stiffened, tugging on your wrists, trying to pull away. “Oh no, what happened? Not so scary as you try to play off, huh?” Buggy said in a hushed voice, leaning towards you, his face inches from you.

You avoided his eye contact, feeling a deep sudden shame overcome you.

Buggy moved your wrist to one of his hands, his large gloved hand gripped over both your smaller wrists as he gripped your jaw, his thumb resting on your lips and his other fingers gripped under your chin. “Look at me!” He demanded. He stared you down as if a hungry starved animal staring down a helpless deer.

You took a risk, moving your front teeth over his thumb, biting down on it. “FUCK!” He shouted, letting go of you before striking you. “Fucking psycho!” he continued to cuss under his breath, complete obscenities. e

You tried to free your hands, unable to as the grip Buggy had tightened. “No, no, no. You’re not going anywhere.” Buggy taunted. This was always like a little game with him. He knew he could kill you as soon as he wanted, but it was like a cat taunting his prey before actually going in for the kill. “Aren’t you gonna fight?” He wondered. You usually would kick and throw some punches, but you were frozen in place. “Did you actually give up? So early?” He asked, a smile creeping up on his painted face.

“I’m not giving up. I just know you have no guts. You have no knife. What could you possibly do?” You confronted. “You’re weak. You’re just a clown who does a circus trick.”

“And you’re just a whore who hides.” Buggy struck back.

You stared the other down, silence falling over one another. The silence was loud. Louder than any kind of battle you’ve ever been in.

“Don’t look at me like that.” You broke the silence as you watched his eyes soften at your gaze. You weren’t sure if it was pity or some other kind of hidden emotion he was trying to show you. Either way, there was something you didn’t trust about it.

A sudden rush came over you, your eyes fluttered shut as you felt him crash into you. His stubble rubbed against your softer skin. You felt your hands being freed and a soft yet slightly rough touch grip your cheek. It was as if it was something he always had on the back of his mind, but never had the guts to do. Buggy was always such a coward.

Even though this was a newfound feeling, you needed this as bad. As if you had been waiting for years. The longer your lips moved with each other, the sloppier it got. You gripped his arm, running your fingertips along his muscles as he kept himself hoisted up, trying not to crush you under his body. Even though he felt incredibly weak against your touch. A second broke as you were pulled away from the kiss. Buggy sat up, staring you down, wondering what his next move would be. Either apologize for his actions or completely forget this even happened.

“Fuck it.” He mumbled under his breath. “Take that shit off.” He ordered you as his arms snaked around you to undo your clothes with your help. You nodded quickly and obliged as you began to unbutton your corset, fully exposing yourself to him.

You hear him cursing under his breath, taking the sight of you before feeding into his urges once more. You moved your lips against his, wondering if any of his makeup was rubbing off of you. You moved the thought past you quickly though. His hand came up, cupping and massaging your breast. You left a whimper against his lips causing him to smirk a bit at how easy it seemed for him to make you fall into him.

“You’re such a fucking whore.” He mumbled, breaking the kiss just to mock you bringing himself right back to you. You smacked his cheek, warning him to watch what he said, but it seemed to just entertain him even more. He lowered his lips down to your jaw, leaving sloppy kisses across your jaw and neck, biting and sucking on sections of skin as he chose to. Every small bite left you letting out small gaps and hums as you tried to compose yourself well enough in front of him. “You’re so sensitive.” He whispered in your ear before kissing right under your ear. “And easy.” He continued with his double meanings. Of course, Buggy would tell jokes while trying to get you to fuck him.

“Buggy, could you please shut up before I regret this any more than I do?” You warned him. But he knew you wanted this. With a small bite across your collarbone, you fell weak against him, letting another noise escape your lips.

“What was that again? You really want me to stop?..” He teased, pulling his lips off your body, bringing his other hand to your waist, pulling you close to him. His other hand laid on top of your breast, massaging them before bringing your nipple in between his fingers. His face only an inch from yours as your breathing grew faster. “Seems like you’re really enjoying yourself… no?” He asked you.

Your bottom lip, brought between your teeth to keep yourself from revealing how much you enjoyed yourself. His hand dropped from your waist as your skirt was being pulled up by his hand. You never realized how much he could really do with his abilities. The disgusting thoughts of it flooded your mind.

“Come on… tell me. Are you enjoying yourself? Are you entertained?” He continued to annoy you. His fingers traced your thigh before finally making it to the start of your skirt. He slowly traced down your panties, moving them over to the side.

“Fuck…” You whimpered, not even being touched by him. You bucked your hips, desperate for him to actually touch you.

“Nu-uh… tell me. And I’ll reward you.” He need to completely dominant you. This was something he would hold over you forever. And you both knew it. Whatever this would be after you both were to escape, this would just be a constant reminded that he had you practically begging for him.

“Fuck- why are you so goddamn annoying?” You whined, meeting his stare as he couldn’t help but watch you. Everything he did, showed on your face how much you actually desired it.

He loved this newfound power he now could use against you. Even if it would be for a few minutes… or hours. However far you’d let him take it.

“If I'm so annoying… why do you want me to touch you so bad?” He made a point. You huffed, your lip slightly pouting at the annoyance he was putting you through right now.

“Fine… I’m entertained… is that what you wanted so bad?” You gave in. He let out a light laugh. Before bringing you into another kiss. His hand finally pressed against your core. His thumb rubbing circle against you, applying slight pressure. His pacing started slowly, speeding up until he figured out the exact speed that you needed. You gripped onto his arm tightly, allowing yourself to moan against his lips.

You felt him getting harder against his pants as he rubbed himself against you. He needed you but was focused on making you feel good before he could put any kind of energy and focus on himself.

This felt like the worst, but best decision at the moment.

“You’re fucking soaking.” Buggy hushed as he pulled his hand away for a second. His two fingers teased the outside of you before slowly sliding them in. You gasped, pulling away from him. You cursed obscenities under your breath, your head thrown back as you tried to catch your breath. “I want you so bad,” Buggy admitted. “For a while now.” You looked up at him, confusion coming over your face, wondering how long has he even felt this. This had just occurred for you, but how long has it been for him? He took notice, feeling exposed at his own doing. He assumed this was also the case for you. “Oh, don’t pretend you haven’t had thought about it too. We both could’ve killed one another long ago.”

It's true. You’ve had the chance. Sure, you couldn’t slice him or shoot him or whatever. But you’ve had chances at throwing him overboard. And there were definitely times he could’ve cut your throat open, but he never took that chance. You assumed it was for the same reason you never killed him. This was just too fun of a game you both played. This was a bit deeper for him though.

“Now, I get to do what I’ve been wanting to.” He quickened his pace, wanting the embarrassment of being vulnerable to end.

You laid back, unable to keep yourself up. You felt yourself almost hitting your limit before finally hitting your climax. You tried to catch your breath, but Buggy was too persistent on seeing you like that again. He moved himself off of you, undoing your skirt, furiously pulling it off of you, along with the panties. You were fully exposed to him.

He spent a moment watching your body, taking in details of what you looked like bare. Seeing all the marks, scars, and everything he would’ve never seen unless you laid naked in front of him like this.

His hand ran over your body, almost like touching an old piece of art, scared to completely break you.

“You enjoying the show?” You teased. He nodded, being kneeled down at your feet.

“Quiet a lot. Yes.” He admitted. He leaned forward, pushing your legs apart from each other, giving him room between your legs. He placed them above his shoulders before pulling your hips towards him. He pressed his mouth over your cunt, leaving small licks across your lips.

“fuck..” You whispered, giving Buggy more confidence. He pulled you even closer to him, your hips rising from the floor. He stared you down intensely, his licks becoming faster, taking his time to figure you out. Every whimper let him know exactly what you wanted from him. He listened to everything you let come out of your mouth. You attempted to grip onto something to trick yourself from not being too loud. You realized how stupid it was for the marine to even put you two in a room together. Their plan failed terribly.

You bucked your hips towards him, wanting him more and more. Your whimpers got louder and louder, still not coming down from the high Buggy had given you earlier. His tongue entered you, fucking you with his tongue, watching as you came apart in front of him. His tongue moved back to your clit as his fingers replaced his tongue, moving quickly into you, curving a bit at each stroke. It didn’t take long for you to finish once again. Buggy licked up the mess you left, putting you down. He leaned forward “Taste yourself.” He demanded before forcing a kiss. “You tasted so good.” He complimented. You sat up, pulling away from him before reaching over to undress him. He. Reached to stop you, pulling away soon enough. He began getting in his thoughts. He was just wondering how this was even happening. His wildest thoughts finally became reality.

You removed his stripped shirt, throwing it off to the side. You rested your hands over his chest, looking up at him. You felt like you finally had some control in this situation. He shuddered at the suddenness of your touch, watching you intensely, seeing what your next move would be. You ran your hands down his chest, to his stomach, feeling the bumps of scars he’d acquired over the years. You ended at his waistband, adjusting yourself in front of him. You didn’t pull them off just yet. Your hands wandered farther down, feeling his hard-on through his pants. You rubbed against him, feeling whatever he had going for him. His breath became stagnant, trying to keep his composure. You leaned forward, resting your chin against his body. “I feel like you really really want this. How long have you been waiting for me to touch you like this?” You asked. Your touch slowly leaving him the longer he took to answer. He took a grip of your wrist, pushing your hand back onto him. “Too long to even remember when.” He finally answered, worried your touch would disappear from him. It was a good enough answer for you to give him what he desperately wanted.

Your hands moved back to his waistband, pulling them down along with his boxers, fully exposing him to you. You’d be lying if you said you weren’t impressed. Maybe even a bit intimidated. You wrapped your hands around him, slowly jerking him as you brought yourself closer. You needed him to beg for you. You wrapped your lips around the tip, slowly bringing yourself closer, moving your hands away the farther you took him into your mouth.

Buggy couldn’t take it anymore. You moved too slowly, wanting him to grovel and beg for you. He gripped a fist pull of your hair, pushing you to him as his hips thrusted into your mouth. He let out mumbles, his eyes shutting as his mouth hung slightly open. You gripped onto his thighs, attempting to pull away to catch a breath, but he took complete control once again. He moved your head on him however he wanted, without a care if you could breathe or not. His breathing got quicker and quicker, watching you with your lips around him, squirming under him once again. It’s how he preferred to see you.

You followed the pace he demanded from you, swirling your tongue around him. You attempted to keep yourself upright, but Buggy continuously threw off your balance, making you nothing other than a sex toy for him to pleasure himself with. You gagged against him as his dick hit the back of your throat continuously. You got a second to pull away from him for a gasp of air. Tears streamed down your cheeks, your mouth and chin covered with drool. “You look so much better like this.” Buggy admitted, his hand laid down your chin, forcing you to look up at him. He enjoyed seeing you so vulnerable to him. You nodded before bringing yourself back to him. You bobbed your head quickly, licking up and down his shaft the more of him you took in. He couldn’t control his whines and moans as they easily slipped out of his mouth. Not even a bit of himself tried to hide how good he felt. His hips thrusted into you, so desperate for you to fully take him in.

You shut your eyes to stay focused on him before feeling a slap come across your cheek. “Look at me.” Buggy ordered in between moans and grunts. You obliged and did what he asked.

His breathing got more unsynchronous the closer he got to finishing in your mouth. You felt him twitch under you, pulling your hair and pulling you off him. “Let me fuck you.” He began to beg for you.

You didn’t take a second to make your decision, nodding at his demands and brought his lips to yours.

His hands gripped your waist, positioning you under him once again. He broke the kiss once more. He brought your leg over his shoulder, teasing your entrance with the head of his cock. He made no time for you to adjust to him, pumping himself fully into you. He thrusted into you aggressively, gripping your hips tight enough to leave a bruise later. “Fuck, you feel so fucking amazing.” He couldn’t help but admit. The reality was so much better than any of his fantasies. He brought you into him, moving your hips along with every rough thrust he made.

Profanities leaving his lips and whispers you couldn’t quite make out what he was saying. You took time to adjust to his size. You couldn’t try to hide what he made you feel at the moment. It was too hard to play pretend in front of him any longer. Your high-pitched whimpers filled the room with Buggy grunts and heavy breathing. He pulled himself away, grabbing your waist once again and flipping you around. You laid there, bringing your hips up for him. He brought you up a bit higher to match his larger frame. He spent no time before fucking you again. He buried your head into the floor, his hand pushing your head down to the ground to stabilize you. And to also bring you to some kind of embarrassment.

Your body grew weaker around him, your legs unable to keep yourself up. Buggy grabbed a fist full of your hair, raising your body up against his. One hand gripping your breast as the other tugged your hair far back enough to make you kiss him. His thrusts grew faster as he was getting closer. You pulled away from the kiss Buggy brought you into, unable to keep your cries to yourself. You practically lost all sense of control, begging for him to fuck you more. You wouldn’t be surprised if anyone heard you through the walls.

You came quickly, feeling Buggy not completely be done with you yet. He grunted into your ear, his thrusts getting sloppier as he got closer as well. Within just a few seconds he came too, unwilling to pull out of you just yet. He breathed heavily into your ear as he tried to come down from the high. You laid against his chest, trying to regulate your breath too.

This felt like such a mistake. But you couldn’t turn back from it.

You both finally pulled away from each other, you desperately trying to clothe yourself from this experience. All be it, the best sex you’ve ever had, but something so regrettable.

You pulled your skirt back on before buttoning up your corset. You laid up against the wall, staring at him as he reluctantly pulled his pants back onto his body, leaving his shirt on the floor. He was far too hot and sweaty to fully clothe himself.

-earlier-

Vivienne had told the crew to stand by. She had a plan to get you back. The ship had nothing without its captain held in prison. She watched carefully as she watched the Marines drag you off. She just needed to find a way to get in. She had to find a disguise. She found a bar close by, it was swarmed by Marines. It couldn’t be too hard to steal a uniform off of them. The marines always tried to present themselves as strong-willed men or women, but most of them were just lonely pricks who’d do anything at a chance for a woman.

She scanned the room finding the most pathetic-looking one from the bar. It wasn’t too hard.

She scouted him out perfectly.

She made her way over to him and was immediately offered a drink. After a couple minutes of talking, she dragged him off to the bathroom. So unfortunate. He was pretty cute. She smacked him across the head, pushing him onto the floor before pulling her dagger out. “Give me your uniform or I’ll slit your throat open.” She warned him. He nodded frantically in fear before removing his clothes off, and handing them off to her. She wasn’t stupid though. She knew he’d say something. She grabbed his head, slamming it against the wall causing him to completely black out. This should spare her a few minutes before having to make a run for it. She quickly changed and made her way towards the marine base.

She spotted someone familiar. The corner of her lip curled into a smirk before sneaking around them. “Hello, sailor.” She whispered in his ear. Your whole crew learned to be light enough on their feet for no one to hear them coming up behind them.

Cabaji drew his sword out, pointing it towards her. His eyes softened and quickly lowered his sword once he realized it was her. “Don’t. fucking scare me like that. I could’ve sliced you in half.” He whispered.

“You wouldn’t dare hurt a fly.” She teased, leaning forward to press a kiss over his cheek. They had been sneaking off together for months right behind their captain's backs. They found company with one another after being stuck in battle. Cabaji didn’t have to save her that day. They both were drifting on a raft together far from battle before Cabaji brought them back to safety. His attempt at saving her resulted in a deal that she’d let him take her out at least once. She feared you’d find out, but gave in. Months have gone by and not a word has been spoken about the two’s entanglement. “Don’t be too sure of yourself my love.” Cabaji couldn’t help the dumb smile coming across his face.

“Okay shut up. There’s no time. I need to find y/n.” Vivienne cut the back-and-forth flirting short.

“I need to find Buggy, how convenient?” Cabaji chose to tag along as Vivienne began to scour the marine base.

The two of them had to be held in a cell. But which one? That was going to be tricky. They both tried room after room before finding two Marines who Vivienne immediately recognized. They were one of them 8 men who carried you and mostly Buggy off. Time to play her role. She gripped Cabaji’s arms as she tugged him to her. “Sirs- I’ve found one of Captain Buggy’s crew. Where should he be held? I’d figure nowhere near Buggy.” She played the role perfectly. They looked down at their notes before telling you a free cell. “Sir- I don’t mean to judge your judgment. But isn’t that far too close to Buggy’s cell. In that means, where exactly have they been held if you don’t mind me prodding.” She asked, looking at their documents as if she was authorized to even do so. B2047. Y/N Y/L/N and Buggy ‘the clown’. Why the hell were you both held in the same cell? “Ahh never mind. Alright. I will see you both in a bit for more paperwork to fill out.” She nodded their way before leaving. She turned to the right, taking a straight detour to your cells.

“It’s hot watching you pretend to be a Marine. Maybe you should keep the costume.” Cabaji annoyed. She found him endearing though and just giggled at the ridiculousness. Soon they were able to make it to your cells. Vivienne grabbed the keys off the wall of the office earlier. But the Marines were too stupid to even notice the keys missing. Maybe they’d soon figure it out. There was screaming coming from the cell, and Vivienne's heart began racing. “Fuck- they’re really about to kill each other the longer we wait.” Cabaji panicked with her. Buggy and you were about to kill one another. She just knew it’d be stupid to get the two of you in a room alone. She rushed over, finding the screaming going down.

She couldn’t be sure, but she assumed one of two things. Either the two of you got into one of your many fights that went too far or one of you was killed. Vivienne put the key in the lock and quickly turned it before opening the door to see the mess caused in the room.

Your eyes widened, jumping up to run over Vivienne and holding her tightly in your arms. “Oh my god! Finally! Get me the fuck away from this maniac. The stupid fuck nearly killed me several times!” You cried out. You felt guilty for lying, but hey some of it was true. She nodded, breaking the hug to look at you for scars or marks, finding a small red mark across your cheek from Buggy slapping you a few times.

“Captain, are you alright?” Cabaji asked as he leaned down to pull Buggy off the floor. He retrieved his captain's shirt, seeing a tear at the collar of it.   “I’m fucking fine. Just let’s get my shit and let’s get the fuck out.” Buggy almost had a special instinct of speaking bad things in existence. Red lights flashed as a loud blaring alarm came through all the speakers.

An announcement shouted ‘alert alert, break in, alert for two people. A Buggy pirate and a woman in a Marine uniform apart of the Venus Moons have broke in!’

The announcement repeated. Fuck.

Chapter 3: Cabin Fever

You were carried off the boat once it docked. Buggy stupidly tried to negotiate with the Marines as if they’d listen to a single word he’d say. It had even gotten bad enough that when Buggy tried to escape they held his limbs separately. His arm being held by two officers, two others holding his legs, another holding his torso and his head. Fucking moron.

You couldn’t escape either. The chains would not disappear with you. They stood out like a sore thumb.

“Fellas, come on. I didn’t even do anything. I was stopping the poor guy, if anything I deserve a medal.” Buggy frantically begged.

“Shut up! You got us in this bullshit. Now would you please just shut the fuck up?” You reprimanded him.

“Ooo I’m sorry, mistress of the dark.” Buggy taunted. You rolled your eyes trying to hold your tongue.

“Can we use his nose as a mouth gag? Please?” You asked the officers, but they blatantly ignored you. Until one spoke up. “Wouldn’t be a bad idea…”. He tried to be quiet. They couldn’t have one of us think that we in any way entertained the idea of being set free. They had a job to do and were not being paid enough to listen to our bullshit.

We were carried off to a building, not quite a jail, but close enough. A marine base. You were going to be held here for who knows how long. You were going to be cashed in for your crimes and then be tortured for sure. Worst of all, next to Buggy.

You looked around, hoping to find an escape, but nothing would be found. You were finally let go once you stepped into a dimly lit fluorescent room. You felt your body be shoved against a wall. You looked to the side of you, watching as Buggy’s body was too. The officers' hands roamed your body in search of weapons. They had already confiscated your sword. You felt a rough hand go up your leg, finding your holster with the knife sandwiched between it and your thigh. It was removed from you as they continued to search. Your hands a bit off to your side as their hands continued to pat down a bit closer than you’d like to your body. They removed your corset, finding two knives fall down to the ground once the corset zipped off of you. Buggy had an itinerary compared to you.

“You really wanted to kill me that bad? You really brought all that crap to get me?” You insulted his abilities.

“You’re hard to catch.” He simply put it. Once they were sure there was nothing left on you they shoved you both into what seemed to be in a solitary confided room. You both couldn’t be trusted with cells due to your abilities. They removed your cuffs and locked you both in. “Can I get my own room at least!” You screamed before the door shut on you.

You huffed, laying your head against the wall, staring at the two mattresses that laid flat on the floor. “Fuck…” You mumbled.

“This isn’t so bad… we could play rock paper scissors now to pass time.” Buggy recommended. You ignored him, crawling to the mattress that was left for you. You curled into a ball and kept your eyes shut. Maybe it would be better to sleep to pass the time. You finally could catch up on your sleep. “I think this is my punishment… In the millions of ways they could torture me, this is the far worst…” You grumbled, pressing your arms over your head to avoid the obnoxious light hanging above you two.

“You know wearing all black doesn’t make you as deep as you think it will.” Buggy continued to try to annoy you. You never knew this obsession of him constantly trying to prick and prod. Why couldn’t he ever shut up?

You kept quiet.

“Oh silent treatment. It’s as if we’re an old married couple already.” He laughed. He couldn’t keep that shit-eating grin off his face.

You didn’t want to entertain him further. It’s exactly what he wanted. You wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of pissing you off. At least not even more than you already were. He’s the exact reason you were even stuck in this mess to begin with.

“You never laugh, do you? I mean seriously. People all over the-“Buggy would not stop. It was as if he was a toy who didn’t have an off button.

“Cause you’re not funny.” You plainly replied. “The only people who laugh at you are either your crew or your hostages.”

Buggy rolled his eyes, not wanting to hear any of it. Nothing would ever change his mind about how hilarious he thought he was.

“That’s why I never smile. You’re just not funny. Unfortunate. You were fucked with that stupid ugly nose and you’re still not funny.” You further insulted him. It would be a way to shut him up. He gripped your jaw, his thumb squeezing one side as the rest squeezed the other. He forced you to look over at him, his face finally serious. Even when you’ve mostly fought, you’ve never seen him this way except the first time you’ve ever encountered one another.

-4 and a half years ago-

You snuck onto the ship with 3 crew mates after finding a few drunken pirates at a pub. They were too intoxicated to even know where they were headed. You had seen their crew before in passing and you knew exactly how much you could take. You and your crew led them to an alley where you mostly dealt with this, using your disappearing act to keep them more confused than they already were. There, they were stripped of their costumes and left stranded. You disguised yourself enough with the rest before scrummaging around for something important.

You had seen their captain earlier at the pub, so who knew how long you had left. You were able to find a few things worth saving but fuck all of this was just so tacky. Frills and stupid instruments laid everywhere along with stupid pointless acts like a unicycle. What a bunch of losers.

You found keys, rushing to find where it’d open to. You were lucky enough to find the captain's quarters. You were amazed at how much this man loved himself, his own wanted poster plastered around the whole room, a vanity full of makeup and photos, mostly of himself. Costumes laid all over the floor. What a tool.

You searched drawers before finding the jackpot. You had found maps and jewels. You shoved as much as you could into your bag. You got up and continued to look around before hearing a noise coming. You panicked and focused all your energy, making you translucent to the naked eye.  You held your mouth shut, hoping no one could hear your breathing. Fuck…

You heard the door swing open, turning to see who it was other than the Captain of the ship. The man with his wanted poster plastered in the room. The man who was worth 10 million right now. You could kill him for the money if you wanted. “Who the fuck-?” Buggy mumbling. You watched him intensely as he walked over to his drawers. You left it open with most things missing in it. You couldn’t believe you could be so stupid. You tried to make it to the door before Buggy tried to storm out, slamming his body into yours. You stumbled, falling onto the vanity, and breaking a few things on it. Buggy stumbled as he tried to look around, barricading the door. “Come on. Don’t be shy… Where are you rat?” He looked around. He noticed the chair by his vanity move as you tried to grip it to get yourself off the ground. He quickly hurled himself, catching you under him. He didn’t know where to throw punched but he did until he hit something. “Get the fuck off!” You shouted, finally revealing yourself. He stared stunned at you for a second before rage consumed him entirely. He continued to throw punches, you ducking as many as you could. You reached to your corset, grabbing a dagger before slicing him. You heard no yelling, watching him put himself together.

“You and I are one of the same darling.” Buggy said in a hush tone before leaning in to get his dagger. You acted fast, disappearing before knocking his hand away from wherever he was reaching, throwing a punch over to his cheek. You continued, trying to find a way to leave his grip as quickly as possible. Eventually, his grip loosened as he tried to figure out where you were. You wiggled under him, kneeing him as soon as you could free your knee from him. You got up quickly, grabbed the bed you hid, and ran out. Buggy quickly recovered, chasing what could be a ghost. You called out to your crew and they came rushing to the sound of your voice. You reappeared in front of them, knowing where to go.

“Someone fucking grab them! God, you all are absolute morons. Never hire clowns to do a job.” Buggy commanded, trying to catch you in time. You luckily had your ship nearby. You ran down the dock towards the ship, Buggy and a few of his crew in hot pursuit. You called the crew that remained on the ship to start moving. One dropped a rope as the rest began to ship’s new trip, getting the boat to move. You ran quick enough and jumped off the dock, grabbing onto the rope. The others did after you, climbing up the rope onto the deck. Buggy halted, watching the ginormous ship take sail, seeing your jolly roger flap against the wind.

He just assumed you were so poor, sad thief. He ran back to his ship, planning on forever to get back at you.

It didn’t take long enough for him to see your wanted poster in a bar a few days after. 5,000,000. Not bad for a newbie.

And now you were on Buggy’s radar.

Both of you spent years purposely trying to sabotage each other. So much to the point, it’s ended you both up where you sat right at this moment.

-Now-

“You’re a fucking brat.” Buggy cursed, his grip not easing up on you. You tried to remove his grip from your jaw, wiggling under him. “You’re just some broad who got lucky. And don’t ever forget that. You weren’t born for this. You weren’t raised for it. And you really think going around in skimpy lacy dresses makes you a dignified pirate? Tell me, how many ships have you actually worked on… hm?” Buggy paused after going on his long-winded rant. It was probably well deserved. Maybe mentioning something you knew he was self-conscious of wasn’t the best thing.

You remained quiet. You never did work on a ship. You did just get lucky. You thieved around for the most part with Viviane. You gained a few crew mates here and there, but you seriously only became a pirate after stealing the current ship you own. You decided you were worth more than petty cash. You deserved whatever the One Piece was.

“Exactly. If you knew better, you’d learn to keep your dumb mouth shut.”

You both stared at one another in silence. It hit you. The only reason the Marines didn’t kill you on the spot was because they knew you’d end up killing each other. Or at least one of you would end up dead.

“You’re giving them exactly what they want asshole. Come on, the chance is not. Kill me off. You’d only end up starving to death anyway.” You revealed their plan to them. Buggy scoffed, pushing your face away from his hand once he let go of your jaw. He was done trying to feed into your manipulation. “You all of a sudden don’t wanna kill me? What happened to hating me?”

Buggy sat at the wall, laying his back against it, keeping his mouth shut. This was the first time you’d heard him go this long without talking. It was eerie.

“Come on. Don’t be a coward now. Kill me. You could finally off the person you hate the most.” This was partly revenge for you. You finally go to annoy him. It was finally the other way around. You got to go on and on while he sat there quiet. It almost made you laugh. You could see why Buggy did it so often.

“You’re the person I hate the most. Don’t flatter yourself.” Buggy finally spoke up.

“Aww damn. Am I being cheated on?” You finally made a joke. It almost made Buggy laugh. “You just aren’t. Credit. I hate your guts. But if I wanted to kill you, I would’ve awhile ago. You’re not that sneaky.” Buggy lazily insulted you.

“So, who do you hate the most then?”

“I don’t- just-“ Buggy started before shaking his head, muting himself once more. He didn’t want to dwell on it. If these were going to be the last few moments of his life, he would rather not spend it on crying over Shanks.

“Was it someone you knew?” You questioned. You leaned trying to incite a welcoming energy to him. You were curious. If he hated someone more than you, what happened? He seemed to hate you a lot. It was hard to believe someone had taken up more anger in his heart than you.

Buggy stared at you, giving you a warning you cut it out before he got even more mad.

You decided to cut the subject short. The room fell quiet. Usually, you’d find it comforting. But knowing you were in a room with the most talkative person you knew, it felt dark… scary even. “Do you think our crew will try to argue for us to at least get makeup before putting us out?” You joked, causing Buggy to finally break his silence and laugh.

“There you go!” You cheered.

“Cabaji will argue for it.” Buggy shrugged.

“Ya, so would Vivienne.” You fell quiet. You just hoped she’d be okay. You didn’t expect to stay here. You knew something would work out eventually. Vivienne had to be thinking of a way to get you out. She would never abandon you.

“Does your crew even like you? You don’t seem like a fun captain.” Buggy asked.

“Why would I need to be fun? I'm a pirate.”

“Not really.” Buggy cut in. You threw a kick towards him, missing as he quickly moved out your way. “Hey-hey! We were having a moment!”

“Shut the fuck up freak, no we weren’t. Anyways. Yes. They do. I treat them like actual pirates. We don’t need to party for no reason. They take me seriously.” You defended. Buggy smirked, shrugging his shoulders at your answer. “They do. Unlike your crew.”

“My crew take me seriously!” Buggy threw his hands up in defense of himself.

You nodded, exaggeratively, basically telling him you did not believe a word he said. Why would you?

“Your crew doesn’t respect you, they’re scared of you. Not the same thing.” Buggy said.

“You’re just trying to get in my head.” You huffed. You did think about it a lot though. What if it was true? No, it couldn’t be. They always saved your ass. But you did save them countless times as well. They obviously respected you. Right?

“Shut up… I’m not listening to some big-nosed clown.” You rolled your eyes.

Buggy huffed, trying to keep his composure. He did not want it to get to him. But it always did. “Did I hit a nerve? Oh so you do know. You know your crew eventually will betray you. Tale as old as time.” Buggy tried to hurt you back.

You disappeared, getting up before throwing a kick to his head. He held his head, seething in pain. “What was that again? I wasn’t sneaky?” You yelled over him. You threw down another kick, feeling a hand grip your ankle once the tip of your shoe smacked against his head. He pulled your ankle, knocking you down once you lost your balance. You let out a squeal, Buggy getting up quickly and finding your body. He sat on top of you and pinned you down against him and the cold floor, his warmth unmatching the coolness of the floor. You gave up the act, reappearing in front of him. You stared up at him, him staring at you.

His face leaned closer to yours as his head leaned inches away from you.

You never found Buggy attractive, but the hungriness of the way he stared at you snapped you into some kind of realization. You never really paid attention to his face. You never noticed anything about him, until now. You scanned the details of his face, trying to see if you were going crazy, but the more you stared the more the feeling in your stomach turned from fear to attraction. And then back in fear about your newfound attraction.

“Why the fuck are you staring at me like that? Fight back!” Buggy demanded, snapping you out. You were stuck in a hypnosis.

“Uh- what?” You asked.

“What’s wrong?” Buggy said in a mocking tone. “You had a lot to say earlier. Now nothing?” He said in a husky whisper. You let in a deep breath, trying to settle in the discomfort of your newfound discovery. You felt your cheeks get warmer, immediately disappearing in front of him, avoiding getting caught staring.

This had to be some kind of Stockholm syndrome. No way. Or cabin fever.

What the fuck is wrong with you?

Chapter 2: Captain Linien

You got up, rolling over in your sleep. Your eyes slowly adjusting from the complete darkness to the sunshining into your bedroom. You pulled the sheets closer to your body, wanting to keep the warmth in, snuggling into your soft sheets. You decided to stay in bed a little longer before having to start your day. Unfortunately for you and your crew, there were breaks to be had on sea. The next best thing was bound to happen. There was no way you were going to find the one piece with laziness and sitting around.

After lying in bed for a while you had gotten up and left the warmth of your bed. You walked into the bathroom that was attached to your room, taking a quick shower. You would’ve taken one last night if you weren’t so exhausted by fighting that ridiculous clown. You had spotted a few bruises on your legs and body from the fight the day before. Even when you didn’t see him, he was a constant nuisance in your life.

You stood under the showerhead, the water replacing the warmth that your sheet had previously kept you under. You let the water engulf your body as you scrubbed down your legs and arms with a rag with soap on it. After scrubbing your body, you moved on your hair, placing shampoo on your hair, transferring it to your scalp as you scrubbed into it, bubbles forming into your hair. You washed it out before putting in conditioner. You could not effort to look disgusting at sea. You had an image to keep up with. Call you high maintenance, but you definitely did look your best.

After spending a while in the shower, you decided to step out. You grabbed the towel that hung near the shower and wrapped it around your body drying yourself off. You went to your mirror applying your makeup before grabbing one of the outfits that hung in your room. Most of your outfits looked the same. Usually something laced and black. You took a deep breath before deciding to leave the room. Having to be captain of an entire ship definitely wasn’t easy work. You enjoyed it regardless. It was better than being a crewmate or some random villager waiting for your town to be pillaged by pirates. You open and shut the door behind you your heels clacked against the wooden stairs as you made your way up to the main deck.

You were greeted by your entire crew who were still suffering a hangover from the night prior. “I'm glad you all enjoyed yourselves last night…” You walked up the deck. There had to be one person sober enough to even tell you the plan for today. You never wasted a day. “Where the hell is Lilian?” You shouted out for her before she peered out from the group. Her head hung low, rubbing her eyes with her hand, trying to keep herself up.

“I see you kept busy… Any news?” You asked. She shook her head no, afraid to disappoint you. “Do any of you fuckheads have any news for me?” You looked around at the crew before someone stepped forward. “Ma’am… Uh- I did hear about a local ship hosting a party…” They spit it out finally, avoiding your eyes. You took in the information, nodding as you took steps forwards, taking steps closer to them. The speed of your steps only made the crewmate more nervous. Your heels clacking the wood slower than a single heartbeat that the crew member's heart pumped.

“Go on…” You said in a hushed voice. You extended your neck to enter their view, moving your head once they kept your glance. They finally were forced to look your way.

“It was something I heard awhile back in a bar when we were landed… There was a bartender who was talking to their co-worker about an event in a week.” They tried to recall. You nodded as you tried to take appropriate steps to find out how you’d even catch the ship. You weren’t too far from there anyway. You only took to the seas again 2 days ago. If you made a move now, you’d be able to catch them. You had been in between a few islands, making stops to each before eventually taking your longer journey throughout the seas.

“Do you know where they’re stopping?” You wondered.

“I heard it was just a party. They’re more than likely to go in a circle near the Island and then back.” They continued. Your lips curled into a small smile before pushing it down. You were pleased. Simple enough. There might be Marines that you would have to overthrow, but simple enough.

“Perfect… Killian! Go lead the sails! Now!” You ordered. “We have a party… come on now… we can’t show up in these rags.” You laughed as with a simple motion of your hands shooing the crew made everyone scatter to either go to work, get their weapons prepped or get dressed presentable for the party. All choices were right in your view.

Vivian rushed to your side as you were on your way out to sharpen your swords. “Slow down!” She gasped for air once she reached you. “For such tiny legs, you walk way too fast.” She huffed.

“You just might be slow.” You shot back at her, chuckling at her joke. You weren’t sure if you were laughing at her joke or how heavily she was out of breath to just keep up with you.

“Touché… But still… Fuck… give me a minute.” She put her hands on her knees as she took deep huffed of air before recuperating. You stood above her; finally, might you add. Vivian was rather tall, despite your height difference.

“Okay this is going on way far longer than a minute.” You joked, trying to poke fun at her. She was probably the only one who you were able to be silly around. You stopped showing that off a long time ago. You couldn’t help yourself every so often though. Making people laugh was your favorite thing to do. But you eventually found that it made people take you a lot less serious, just like how people find Buggy, an unserious foolish pretend pirate.

“Fucking hardy har-har. You’re so funny.” Her eyes rolled themselves. “But do you really think this is a good idea? This ship could have a ton of Marines. It could be a trap. Why would two people loudly talk about a party in a bar full of pirates? Hm?” She made a point.

You bit your lip, thinking it over. Your finger laid on top of your lips before swirling in circles before pushing against Vivian's nose, booping it. “Cause they’re drunk idiots working in a bar.” You tried to excuse your plan. You were willing to risk it. Even if it was Marines, your ship was fast enough to escape. And your crew was skilled enough. A marine was nothing against your crew or even a woman who could vanish before their eyes. “Trust my instincts.” You reminded her. “Now go on, you have a party to get ready for. Woo!” You giggled before sending yourself off.

You entered your quarters and ripped one of your swords off of the wall. You examined the sword before sitting down on a stool. You grabbed your tools before beginning to sharpen the sword. You spent most of your time making sure it was sharp enough before heading off to train. You trained yourself with a sword for years. You were unfortunately never in a place to train with a master swordsman. You taught yourself everything.

15 years ago

You hid under the rubble of what used to be your neighbor's house. A raid tore your entire village, houses being burnt, and parents being ripped away from children, executed in front of the entire town. Children were either taken or in hiding. But as time continued, less and less children were in hiding as the pirates who raided the town found them. You laid under what use to be a table that laid against what used to be a wall.

You heard footsteps, peering to the side to see if you could find your parents searching for you. But they were long gone by now. You felt a hand grip your shirt collar, being pulled away. You let our a shriek as you began to kick and flair your arms around. “No! No!” You cried. You did not look where you kicked or punched before finally hitting a sensitive spot. The man let go of you before kneeling down to hold onto his shin.

“You stupid brat!” He yelled. You watched a large piece of fruit drop from his sack. He tried to quickly grab it. You knew you could use that readiness as a negotiation. You grabbed the fruit and held it behind you, tightly against your arm and body.

“Give me that!” He yelled. You shook your head.

“Free me and you will, whats it worth to you?” You shouted back. He drew his sword, ready to take it to your neck before you got up and ran. He chased after you. You took a bite out of it, the pirate dropping to his knees.

“You stupid fuck! You have no idea what you’ve just done!” He dropped his sword in defeat. You took more bites before finishing off the fruit, purely out of spite and pettiness. You threw the stem of it at him. “Take the girl at sea! Have her learn the hard way. Stupid brat.” He growled as he gripped your collar again, making sure to keep a distance from his body to you. Another man came and grabbed your legs. They brought you to port, swinging you back and forth before chucking you to the sea. You had just learned how to swim that year. But it seemed nothing you learned helped. You struggled to float, but you sank farther and farther. Your body essentially was made of a bag of rocks against the sea.

You tried to keep yourself afloat before your body tired itself out. Your sight grew dimmer until it was consumed by complete darkness.

You were awoken, frozen cold as your eyes finally shot open. Your eyes being burned by the sun, shutting your eyes immediately. You turned to your side, swallowed sea water spewing out of your mouth. You felt a pat on your back, turning your head to see one of the village girls. “Who are you?” You asked, trying to recuperate with what just happened.

“No time… get up.” She ordered. You nodded, stumbling as you tried to get up on your legs, too weak to carry yourself. She wrapped an arm around you and threw your arm around her. She dragged you off to where she had been hiding. And you both remained there for what seemed to be days. You never left the spot until you both felt completely certain that they were gone. But any sound outside kept you both in fear. You both were too nervous to actually leave. You only ever left your spot after finding out about your new abilities. Once you had discovered them, you wandered around the disheveled torn-down town to come back to report what happened. Apparently, the footsteps you heard were a rescue team, looking for any survivors.

Regardless of never being found again, stranded, you have never felt so grateful towards another person. You could never find yourself on how to repay them. You still never did.

Now

You had draped the long lacy dress over your body, wrapping and hooking a corset to yourself. You kept your hair down, knowing that you’d most likely blend in. Even if you didn’t, you knew you’d turn some heads. Perfect to flirt with rich men long enough to steal something off their person. Men were your easiest targets. Most pirates at sea were lonely, so just any slight attention gave them up easy enough for you to have them distracted long enough before you or your crew could rob them blind. Marines too. Rich men were just eager that someone would even give them the time or day.

You strapped a belt around your waist, sliding your sword in place before sneaking two smaller knives into the corset you had. Along with the harness attached to your thigh. You could not afford to have what happened in town with Buggy ever happen again. You could not take that kind of embarrassment ever again.

You walked back up to the main deck before getting news of the party ship still at the dock. You smiled before ordering the ship to dock, putting down their Jolly Roger to keep themselves hidden. How dumb would you be, parking your ship near a ship and not possibly be detected?

Your ship soon arrived, laying the plank down for you and your crew to make their move. You lead them as they scattered themselves around to keep it less suspicious that a crew of tons of people behind one person were going to this party.

You stepped forward to the bouncer, making up a name. “Not on the list.” They stated.

“But… my friend told me they’d get me on. Hmm…” You tried to think quickly. There had to be a way to get on. “There possibly any other way… I mean…” You looked up at the bouncer, leaning in close. Once his eyes darted somewhere else, to avoid temptation, you quickly glanced at the list. ‘Captain Linien’

“I’ll just ring up Captain Linien. I’m sure we could sort this out…” You shrugged. You reached into your pocket before you were stopped by the bouncer. Apparently he didn’t want to get into any problems with the boss. “Uh- sorry. I must’ve missed your name.” He quickly reacted. You showed him a smug smile before walking in. “Those are my plus ones if that isn’t an issue. I can bring Linien out right now if it is…” You vaguely threatened before being quickly brought on board.

‘fucking idiot…’ you mumbled under your breath as your crew was allowed their way into the boat. You separated as you wandered around, making small conversations. You had left a group to remain at the seaport to follow the ship at a distance in case you were meant to leave immediately. You already had such a high bounty on your head. You could not afford a visit from one of the warlords of the sea. They’ve nearly caught you before. But that’s a story for another time.

The ship began to move. You were now ready to strike. You started slowly making rounds back to the people you introduced yourself to already. You casually leaned your hands on them, running a hand down their torso. They’d stare at your hand for a bit before remaining eye contact with you. Your eyes were usually intense but enticing. But once you caught them, you’d carefully slip away their jewelry or their money. Sometimes both. Before engaging in even longer boring dialogue until one of your crew could ‘distract you’ and pull you away from the conversation.

You acquainted with as many people as possible before excusing yourself. You had to find something else to rob. You hid in the bathroom, focusing your energy before slipping out, a ghost in the middle of a rob. You made sure to not bump into anyone before sneaking around in any room you could find. You found a few cargoes, sneaking as much valuable as you could into a bag you had.

You were not satisfied though. You made enough money, hell more than enough to throw a feast 3 times a day for 4 months, but you were hoping for a map. You snuck into the captain's quarters, rummaging around before finding scrolls. You smirked, stuffing them into your bag before looking at them. You found yourself quickly making it back to the party. You were sure your crew would find more.

You looked around the room before finding someone who looked just rich enough but dumb enough. He was a younger man, his hair slicked back in a white suit at the bar. You took your seat next to him, leaning against the bar to peer over the liquor.

“You need help finding anything?” You caught his attention. Time to play the role of the helpless bimbo.

“Oh… yeah sorry. I’m not usually in spaces like this. I have no idea what's even on the menu…” You lightened your voice as you squinted, moving your head around, looking for something. All you thought about was how’d you steal that liquor later for your own party.

“Darling there isn’t a menu… here let me order for you.” He fake politely flirted. Of course you knew there wasn;t a menu, you prick, you dreamed of saying to him, but played it off as a smile.

“No- no. Please let me pay it myself.” You pleaded, but he put a hand up denying your plea and you kept quiet. These types of men were the same. Thinking if they just played savior for a helpless dumb girl, they’d get some kind of action from them.

“Thank you.” You smiled

“It’s okay. Uh- something sweet?” He asked and you just nodded, playing up the new role you gave yourself.

“Anything for you my love. What’s your name?” He reached for your hand, planting a kiss on your knuckles, making you want to vomit. But you just gave him a fake name.

You sat at the bar, a drink in hand as you stirred your straw in a circle, simply out of superstition. Your hand toying with this bratty annoying rich kid with enough of his daddy’s money. He had to be maybe a year off or more your age. It could go either way. You giggled at his stupid jokes, playing up your role, as always. You heard a throat clear, expecting your crew before spotting the last person you’d wanna see.

That stupid fucking clown. “Uh- I didn’t know you guys have a circus show playing here.” You giggled at the guy you spent the last couple of minutes with flirting.

“We don’t… Uh- yea, my father hadn’t paid for one…” Shit… he’s the captain's son. Shit.

You really lucked out just using him for his own money rather than information.

“They didn’t, But hey buddy, she’s been robbing you the whole time. Check your watch.” Buggy blew your cover. You stiffened up, removing your hand from him, and kept them to yourself. “Oh, can I get my ear back too? This has been real awkward.” Buggy confessed before hiding his ear flying out of your purse's side pocket. “Did you really offer a guy a blowie too? For a gold chain?” He continued to expose you. “I guess he’s not the only one you stole from.” He laughed at his own jokes.

“I don’t have a clue who you are.” You lied. Hoping to save face in front of the captains son. But Buggy tsked. His hand sneaked off his body, opening your purse to reveal all the jewels, money and maps that were kept in it.

“No one likes a liar…” He used the fake name you gave. “Or was it Jen? Or Crystal? Or June? Or Li?” he continued to name all the fake names you gave. All attention was drawn to you. You tried to quickly snag your purse, but Buggy swooped it up quicker, due to his proximity to it. “Sorry pretty boy, it wasn’t gonna happen.” He snickered.

“Someone get security!” He yelled out. The crowd grew frantic, running off to find some safety, or a way to get off what was eventually going to be a death trap.

Well cover blown.

You drew out your sword, holding it up against the gentleman’s throat. “Now, what’s going to happen here is you’re going to take this man in and give me my shit. If not, I will slice you up like a ham.” You threatened.

“Hey, jokes are my thing. Come on now.” Buggy gleefully tried to bully. “Shut the fuck up!” You shouted at him, drawing your sword at him.

“Hey! Watch it!” Buggy put his hands up in defense. Your sword laid against his throat, pressing the tip of it under his Adams apple.

“Make another joke and it will go straight through.” You threatened. You saw Vivian from the corner of your eyes and a few crew mates. You flicked your head up, telling them to leave. You had it covered. You were sure you’d get back safe enough. She nodded before guiding people out. “Pretty boy stay. I’m sorry you had to get dragged into this.” You quickly tried to bury the hatch. “Oh. He gets an apology, but-“ Buggy started before seething in pain from the sword slowly piercing him. “Shut it!” You ordered. “Listen- fuck what was your name again? Whatever. No hard feelings. It’s just pirate business is all.” You shined him a kind smile.

You felt a quick hit to the side as you toppled over, sending you flying out of your chair and onto the floor while Buggy’s hand came back to his wrist.

“You’re such a prick. It’s the same old trick.” You tried to get up. You looked at the bar and watched the poor kid finally make a run for it. “Fuck!” You yelled. “It’s just too easy with you though. You fall for it ea- Ow! Fuck!” Buggy held his head, hearing a loud thud come from you. Vivian never left. She grabbed a chair and hit Buggy, hoping you’d make a safe escape.

“Vivian! Get the fuck out!” You shouted. Buggy grabbed her by the throat knocking her into the bar. You quickly shot up and ran over to him, throwing punched, but he detached himself with every punch thrown. “Get the fuck off of her!” You sent your sword flying to his neck, only for it to pop back onto his body. You dropped the sword before making yourself not seen. You climbed the bar before throwing a kick into his nose.

He let go of Vivian, holding onto his face quickly. You grabbed her collar and pushed her off to run. She finally listened and tried to make it out before grabbing your purse from off the floor, playing along with the rest of the crew and members on the ship. Safety boats were waiting for people to be brought back to shore. You knew your crew would have everything handled.

You sent more kicks and punches over at Buggy before feeling a grip on your arm. You looked up and watched 3 Marines standing there. Two grabbed Buggy off the floor, prepared for him if he flew off as more Marines were on their way to the room. You both were compromised.

You felt another pair of hands grab you, trying to make out where you were as you struggled to escape the first ones grip. You felt cuffs go around your wrist as you were now officially caught. So was Buggy as it didn’t matter how many times he tried to pull himself apart, a Marine was there to grab whatever flew off his original body.

“Nice going clown.” You finally revealed yourself. There wasn’t a way you’d get out of this.

“Oh, so you can make jokes, but I can’t?” Buggy criticized, hurt that you even threatened him over his jokes earlier.

Chapter 1

You had been on the sea for weeks now, finally landing on some piece of land to loot and rob the town blind. It wasn’t hard. People seemed to severely underestimate you, despite your appearance. Your crew mate rushed to your quarter's door, knocking frantically. You quite weren’t ready to make your appearance, but the nuisance seemed to not stop even after you purposely ignored them. You laid down the face makeup, getting up from your chair to answer. You swung the door open, looking up at your crewmate.

“I’m so sorry to bother you…” They quickly apologized, not wanting to feel the wrath of your annoyance.

“Spit it out. What is it? What could you possibly have to bother me for?” You sneered at them.

They lowered their head, nervous, shaking to upset you with the news.

“What is it shithead?” You nearly shouted at them.

“Uhh- it might seem that we- we landed in occupied land.” They tried to gently put you down. You rolled your eyes, slamming the door in their face before going back to your vanity mirror.

You planned on checking out what they were even trying to tell you after you were finished getting ready. Thankfully you were mostly done. You added the finishing touches to your looks before slipping on your captain attire, a long lacey ruffled black dress. You left your quarters seeing your crew mate still waiting for you.

“What the fuck is wrong?” You asked once again as you were making your way up to the main deck. You looked around to see everyone waiting for you. They all stared, frightened to upset you. “What is it?” You asked.

“I fear we landed somewhere that another crew occupied.” Another crewmate stepped forward to inform you. You pinched the bridge of your nose, letting out a huff as you scanned through options of what to exactly do from here. “I guess we’ll have to rob them too. Who is it?” You asked. They all said nothing. You rolled your eyes, not even wanting to listen any longer. “Lets go! Grab your swords and let’s get to it.” You lead them. You grabbed your sword from your quarters quickly, attaching the belt for it over your hips. You put on a thigh knife holder, strapping it on tightly before pulling the skirt over it. You headed out and left your ship, leaving a few of your crew to keep watch of the ship, under the leadership of your most trusted, Lilian.

Lilian has been on your crew since you started it. You grew up together after a pirate crew swarmed your town and destroyed everything. You were left alone until you and Lilian found each other. Since then, you’ve never left the others side.

You trusted her with your life. God knows how many times she’s saved it.

You wondered the empty desolate town, seeing houses and markets broken into. Everything seem to be tossed or burnt down in hopes for some loot. But nothing was of value to them apparently. You ordered a few crewmates to search and take 3 or 4 people with them to find something good to bring on the ship. You had mouths to feed.

You felt a smack fall against your head as you dropped to the floor. You looked up to see a gloved hand flying. Buggy… You got up quickly looking around for the clown. “Come out! Don’t fucking hide like last time coward!” You shouted into the air before feeling a sweep underneath you. You hit your head on an empty cart, losing consciousness. You were slowly regaining it back before seeing fog come into your sight and eventually knocking out.

Your crew got swarmed and was taken hostage as it seemed as you were being carried away. A few crewmembers tried to fight off the hands that grabbed onto you all the meanwhile trying to fight the hand so I grabbed onto them.

You were awoken to the side of bars in front of you and a large crowd. Typical.

The only way buggy would ever get a crowd to actually want to watch a show was kidnapping them and forcing applause.

You looked around, seeing tears in peoples eyes as a large smile was planted over their lips. The lights were dim before a spotlight was shined upon you.

You knew you could easily get out but you wanted to witness the shit show that would eventually play out.

Applauses were forced on the crowd as a jester held a sign, walking around and threatening the crowd to clap for their big opener. You crossed your lips across the other, laying your back against the bars as you watched what was going to eventually unfold in front of you. You waited with anticipation, knowing Buggy had nothing on you. He knew none of your weaknesses and yet you knew all of his.

“Everyone hold your hands together for Genuis Jester, The Cackling Fool…” Buggy’s crew announced to the crowd.

“The big red-nosed freak!” You yelled out. That surely will get a reaction out of it. And you were right.

He walked out of the shadows, his long beige penny-line coat swinging from behind him as he furiously stomped out from the darkness. “Stop! Stop! Did you freaks forget to tape this one's mouth shut? You know how much she loves to talk. Have we learned nothing?” He screamed at his crew of freaks. He let out a deep breath, holding his composure before finally letting it go. “regardless. You’ve all been acquainted I assume. I am Buggy! You’re main act. And this tonight is my lovely assistant. What’s your name sweetheart?” He turned to you. Your eyes squinting at his, your lips curled in an annoyed manner. “Oh piss off.” You rolled your eyes.

Buggy’s amusement grew, his lips suppressing a giggle from escaping his red painted lips. It pleased him how annoyed you got easily. It just would in turn end in a good fight.

This clearly wasn’t the first you’ve met. You’ve never liked Buggy, and you both ended up in some kind of odd competition that mostly seemed one-sided. You raided places and he would either try to rob you blind or get their first. But in turn, you’d rob him right back. You had encountered each other the first time when your crew had run into his ship on the East Blue where you did what any pirate with a 20,000,000 bounty would do. You ordered your crew to sneak onto his ship and rob him. Stealing weapons, food, treasures, and most importantly maps. That day ended in a years-long battle between the two of you, trying to be the worst versions of each other. Your bounties only got higher as you both tried to defeat one another, but it also just made you both bigger targets.

“Oh sweetheart… is that really a way to talk to your captor? You are in a cage after all. Might wanna be careful what you say.” He warned.

“Let’s not play games Puggy…” Your voice was deadpan, showing no fear or interest in what he had to say. You wanted this to hurry up. Any minute wasted could be time used to find the One Piece and make you the Ruler of Pirates. That was your only dream and Buggy made it way harder for some reason. His weird obsession with you was always puzzling.

“It’s Bugg-“ He tried to correct you.

“I know freak. Now hurry up.” You cut him off.

Your head slammed against the wall of the cages as a detached gloved hand gripped your jaw, thumb gripping tightly on one side and the rest of the clawed into the other. His pointed finger laid across your lips, shushing you.

“Would you just enjoy the show for once? God you talk a lot. More than me, I think. What do you guys think, huh?” He turned his attention to the audience. You had to give it to him. He was a natural performer. Even if nothing went his way, he would pick up where it fell and continue. Nothing stopped him. The show must always go on. “These lovely people spent a lot to come see me. Don’t ruin it for them, alright doll? Now again… tell us your name…” He finally turned over to you. He kneeled in front of the cage, his hand releasing it’s grip from your face and back onto his body.

You sighed, holding your face, feeling a mark already forming on your jaw. “my name is y/n… future leader and ruler of pirates.” You lazily introduced yourself.

“See was it so hard to perform for an audience? Wait- do you have stage fright? Does this- does all this frighten you?” He tried to get a rise out of you.

You just shook your head at him, trying to find a way to escape without causing a scene. His back was finally turned to you as he began to perform and speak to the crowd of hostages, their hands and ankles chained to the floor. “Now what act do you think my lovely new assistant should perform with me first, huh?” He asked.

You focused your energy on working your abilities as you seemingly disappeared to everyone. You pulled a pickpocket from your boots and began to work on the lock before finally getting it open. Once the door slowly opened you felt a sudden fist across your cheek. You reappeared as your body slammed against the floor.

One of the reasons Buggy was so fascinated with you as you were one of the rare pirates he’d met with abilities of the Devil Fruit. You ate it while scrounging for food after your town was destroyed, finding the fruit locked away in what once was a grocery store. It wasn’t locked but was protected by a door in the storage. You desperately ate the entire thing and minutes later discovered your new ability. Invisibility.

“How the fuck did you see me?” You shouted, hand on cheek. “Lucky guess.” Buggy let out a high pitched chuckle as he stood over you.

You in turn mocked his laugh before feeling his boot make an impact with your stomach. You gripped your sides tightly before focusing your energy once more. You disappeared once again. You ran away before making a run towards Buggy and jumping up, landing a kick into his chest. He fell, you bouncing off of him before rolling and tumbling yourself. You watched him quickly get up, watching the floor for your footprints. He had this setting planned. You couldn’t hide from the sandy floor, every movement you made showing where you truly were.

“Oh, come on, don’t hide now. What’s the fun in that? I haven’t even shown off what I can do!” He laughed manically as he tried to find where you were. He sees footprints coming into his view before pulling his body apart. They flew in whatever direction he saw the marks in the sand were being made, eventually getting to you.

You fell down once more, his hands gripping each of your wrists tightly before his boot came into spot of your stomach once more, adding pressure. His body parts flew back together, his whole body standing over you. He kneeled down, hands tightening their grip on your wrists, marking them with his hands. His boot was replaced with his knee as he leaned in closer to you. “Oh no, did the rat finally get caught?” His lips curled into a giant shit-eating grin, showing all of his teeth. His eyes squinting with glee and pleasure of seeing you this way. “What the fuck is this for? Huh? What’s this obsession with me?” You spitefully spoke. Your eyes locked with his, trying to get a reading on what he exactly had planned. “I’m not joining your show.”

“You really don’t have a choice when you're under me like this darling.” He teased. “Hmmm what should we do with you? Hmm?” His painted-on eyebrows raised as if he would actually listen to you. You opened your mouth to only be shushed by the clown again. “OH! How about knife throwing?” He asked. His hands transferred one of your wrists under the grip to his other hand, freeing his one hand, but keeping yours securely under his. He let his hand drop down to the skirt of your dress, lifting it up. His fingers glazing over your skin. He made sure to keep the anticipation of the show as slow as possible as he lifted the skirt over your thighs to reveal the garter holding your knife against your skin.

“This looks like a good one… ooo sharp too? Did you sharpen it today just for me, doll? How sweet?” He teased before calling on his freaks to grab you off the floor. You tried to break free but to no avail.

Your wrists were once again held captive as Buggy’s gang of freaks tightly wrapped the straps against your skin. You pushed back enough hoping you’d get yourself out of it.

“Now… let’s see a real trick…” Buggy claimed as he tossed your knife up in the air, catching the handle once it came down from the air. “I will be tossing these at this lovely lady… But… while we cannot see her… doesn’t that sound fun?” He asked the audience, one of his freaks holding up an applause sign, forcing them to agree with him. He turned back to you, turning his head to the side as he slipped his coat off, exposing his toned arms. “Come on my dark and gloomy princess… why don’t you give them what they want? I’m pretty sure we don’t want anyone to see you spinning around in a skirt anyway. Plus, we can then see how good of an aim I really am.” He continued to convince. You pulled on your restraints enough, trying to figure out your escape plan.

You looked at Buggy with a pleading look. “Come on. Do your little trick. Don’t you trust me to know what I’m doing? Now once this starts spinning, you’re gonna perform your disappearing act, okay?” He tried to convince you. You knew he wasn’t going to care to aim. He was just gonna throw knives at the board. He had no regard for you. Why would he? One of his freaks came by, making sure you were securely in. You noticed the painted-on face. Your lips curved into a smirk before going back to the act of feared prisoner for Buggy. The wheel began to spin, your wrists and ankles now more freed after you had one of your crew disguised themselves as one of Buggy’s freaks to loosen your restraints. The grabbed the corner and spun you around as past as possible. You focused and made your disappearing act. You had to act quick. You quickly tugged one of your wrists out of the restraint and undid the next hand. You grabbed the buckles of each restraint pulling them off. The wheel spun too quickly for Buggy to even notice them being undone.

You climbed on the back of the wheel, standing on the pole that held the wheel. You continued to make it spin as you gripped the sides and pushed. You didn’t want Buggy to be suspicious. You felt a thud go against the board, a knife sticking out from the wood. You let out a quick faked yelp, hoping Buggy bought it. Hopefully your acting skills were up to par with your sneaking skills.  You watched Buggy carefully before planning your attack. You bent your knees before hurling your body towards his. You extended your leg out towards him, kicking him in the chest. You grabbed the knives from his side belts and held your own against his throat.

“Try it. It’s not the first time you’ve cut my head off.” Buggy begged you on.

“You're right. It isn’t… But hey… quick question… Where’s the freak holding the sign?” You asked him.

His head turned to see none of his crew around. Slowly as the show went on, your crew carefully and quietly took them out, most of them backstage.

“Maybe next time don’t hire a man to take out 4 to 5 people at the same time…” You whispered in his ear before taking the knife against his throat. His head off his body before spotting one of your crew mates in a clown costume with a bag. You threw the head their way before they caught Buggy’s head in the sack, tying it up. “See you Binkly!” You shouted before hopping off of him. You grabbed the bag from your crew, attached it to a rope that held the sandbags and reeled him high up.

“Fucking idiot…” You giggled before feeling a smack go against your head. You forgot Buggy’s body could still move without his head. He was like a chicken. You and your crew rushed out as you had found out the plan from the rest. They took out Buggy’s crew and looted the town while the rest came to save you. This would lead into a reward for the entire crew. They deserved it after all.

You went to the ship, making sure everyone arrived safely before departing. You searched for every piece of loot that was brought pack, pleased with everything you found. But best of all, a poster of your new wanted poster with the new bounty for your head. You were surely going to hang this up in your quarters.

“Everyone! Amazing work today! It didn’t go as smooth as hoped, but I’m glad to see where your loyalty lies. So with that… let me show you mine… You can all have a choice of the pile of loot today and… a celebration.” You announced. You were going to bring out the finest liquor you stored in your quarters. You ordered two crew members to bring out the barrels and ordered the chef on duty to get first pick before preparing for the major feast you planned tonight. Thankfully they brought back enough food for a feast.

Roman entered his father’s office, unsure if Logan was going to start berating him, but he wouldn’t be past Logan to do so. He carefully opened the door before sliding his body inside. “Uh-hey Dad, you needed me?” He spoke softly and carefully. He wasn’t allowed to look away from Logan when greeting him. He learned that the hard way when younger. Romans' hands fidgeted before leaning up against one of Logan’s suede chairs.

“Yes. Did you know about this shit?” Logan asked, passing Roman the phone. Logan slid it across his desk, making Roman leave his safe distance from Logan to get closer to evaluate the screen. But he knew what it would be but played it dumb. “Uh- what was I supposed to know?” Roman genuinely wondered. It could’ve been a number of things. Did he know about the article? Did he know your history with them? Did he know you were so fucked up? “Did you know she’s fucked in the head, son?” Logan carefully said, making you and Roman feel small. Roman shook his head no, knowing he should defend you, but was too scared to do so.

“Uh- no Dad… I mean she seemed more normal than all of us… Come on, you’ve met her.” He tried every bit that he could defend in a sly way by making Logan think he actually wasn’t.

“Yes, I did. She’s definitely smart. But I never met her. I don’t know anything about her. And clearly, you don’t either.” Logan tried to sting Roman. Logan wasn’t as annoyed as earlier, knowing this would be dealt with. It was even his idea to send you off to a TV interview after Hugo suggested you do another interview.

Logan knew how smart you were. You were able to talk your way into a lot from what Logan could see. He would eventually use it for his own gain. He knew you were a game piece he could now move around for his own gain and wins. You were definitely smarter than most of his kids, possibly just as smart as Shiv. But you were still a woman. But you had the wittiness Roman had without being disgusting, Shiv’s ideals, and Kendall’s ‘touch with the youth’. You could be useful for women, younger CEOs, and even liberal older individuals. But he knew some would never take you seriously. Until you talked maybe.

“Well- I have another thing. GoJo… What do we think?” He passed it by Roman. As it seemed, Kendall was out so Roman was the best possible option once Gerri was out of office. Shiv could be good, but once again, she was a woman. She was in her feelings way too often, at least Logan assumed so.

“What do I think? Uhm- yea… What do you think?” Roman asked. He wasn’t going to pass a deal his father didn’t approve of.

“I didn’t ask you what I thought. I thought what you thought.” Logan grew annoyed with Roman’s answer. This was Logan’s issue with Roman. He had no opinions. If Logan thought something, Roman followed. He didn’t know how to be his own person. That was why Kendall was always set for greatness. He always knew his stance. Never followed Logan 100%. He said and did as he thought unless beaten into submission. Kendall was tough, but malleable like clay.

“Okay uhm-…” Roman took a minute to think. “Yeah no, GoJo is a great deal. I mean if we took over internet and tech it’d be great. Get rid of the old shit and into the new. I mean no one watches stuff on TV anymore unless it’s streamed and-… uh yeah. No, it’s good.” Roman came to the conclusion. It was only logical for them to go for modernism. They were being outgrown. Newspapers were dying out. Tv was dying out. It’s all about Netflix and websites and whatever all the bullshit was.

“Okay- well… I just needed some insight…” Logan spoke slowly. The news was playing, but it strangely wasn’t ATN. Logan was anticipating your response. He needed to see if this would be a win or an absolute disaster. Before he knew it, the segment started. He leaned in, watching as Jess came up. “Who the fuck is that? I thought you were with the uh- fuck…” Logan forgot how to describe you exactly. He forgot your hair color. He just passed it off.

“Uhm. No Dad, that’s Kendall’s assistant…” Roman reminded as he stared at the television with a growing amount of anxiety. He never meant for this to go this far.

“Oh, uh… yeah…” Logan let out an old man grumble as his words seemed to slide into one another. Logan smiled to himself, knowing this would seemingly get to Kendall. He knew Kendall would have a field day knowing his assistant was backing up the woman he put up false accusations against.

Next, you came through. Roman leaned forward to watch. He watched your face, feeling as though he could be there for you to console you. “Oh please, she’s just a girl, son. Are you that fucking pussy whipped already?” Logan found a reason to pick at him. Roman ignored. It wasn’t worth arguing. Logan never loved anything. Except for dead people who no longer receive his love.

It tore Roman to watch you break down before finally saying what he hadn’t even known. It sent discomfort throughout the room. Everyone who watched themselves felt a sense of heartbreak for you as you recalled everything that had happened. Hugo and Carolina sat in their own office, watching and shifting at the amount of uncomfortable information. It sunk into everyone. This was too serious to be brought up on television. It affected Roman the most. Knowing what he had said and how he mocked your relationship with them the other day set in. He never knew something this horrific could have happened. And to know this was only the stories you were willing to say out loud. You probably had more things hidden under the surface.

“You picked perfectly Roman.” Logan knew what this could mean. It would only mean a gain. Having a victim speak out against other victims or to them now knowing the horrendous things you’ve been put through. It could make you likable. People would listen to you. He knew it and would definitely keep it in the back of his mind. Logan huffed, watching the parents. He worried it’d ruin their reputation. Not what it would do for you. “What the fuck are they doing here? Did they fucking set her up?” Roman asked out loud, putting his hand up to show the screen, and looking over his shoulder at Logan. Logan just watched. “Those fuckers set us up.” Logan grumbled. He knew this was not just an attack on you but on Logan and the company. He wanted to see how this would pan out. And it panned out exactly how Logan wished it would. Roman rubbed his forehead in discomfort watching you scream and insinuate multiple allegations.

But the fact the news network put up people defending a pedophile and their own abuse of a woman who had been working for a company with their own allegations would only sway positively for Waystar. They would think Waystar was a company that would hire a victim. Someone at the company knew pain. She was just like everyone else.

“Roman, when she comes here, let her in.” Logan commanded. Roman wasn’t sure what his father was feeling, but he couldn’t protect you from it. He had to just have this play out the way he has been. It was going to be a never-ending snowball for you. Roman could only nod and wait with his father as they discussed further plans for GoJo and what Roman’s next plans would be. Roman was given the honor of having to handle the case with his father controlling him like a ventriloquist. But for Roman, it was ideal.

You got into the car, laying on Jess’ lap as you sobbed. Gerri was sent a text from Logan to bring you to see him. Gerri couldn’t break this news to you while you were inconsolable. You shook as you buried your head into Jess’ lap. It was like you were a child with your parents. Your inner child was finally allowed to be healed in a slight way. You wept loudly as you couldn’t process them even trying to speak to you. You were fine while leaving, but once the reality of you not even hearing their voice until now hurt. The fact you had forgotten their face killed you. It was like revisiting a dead relative’s grave.

Jess shushed you as she directed you to breath. You. Had to pull yourself together. You sat up, holding yourself, trying to get yourself to stop crying. You looked at Gerri. Her comfort brought you into a calmer state. “You’re okay. You’re safe…” Jess tried to remind you. Before getting to the office, you rid your tears away and did your breathing exercises. You had to put on sunglasses, knowing photographs of you crying would be out. Jess was dropped off before hand and you were pushed through the crowd by security. “Fucking animals.” You mumbled as you were finally able to go into the elevator.

“Okay… y/n, before we go in. Logan had told me he would like to see you.” Gerri finally told you. You understood. You knew this would be a possibility. You sighed, laying your head against the metal walls. You got it together before agreeing to do so as if you had an option to even decline.

The door opened, seeing Roman spot you. He shifted before making his way to you.  “Hey-uh-hi, you doing okay?” He stuttered, checking you as if he would find something physical to show himself that you were doing all right or bad. “Uh- yea… I think your dad wanted to see me…” You mumbled. He already knew. He escorted you, trying to see if you were even mentally okay. He knew this would’ve never happened unless you both got involved. And he felt guilty. He felt responsible. Watching you have to relive everything was horrific to watch. He was never even able to talk that freely, even around his therapist even though there were multiple contracts and signed documents that promised secrecy. He couldn’t put himself in that head space.

You entered Logan's office and were greeted by Logan. He played a concerned face, looking up at you. “Hi dear, take a seat. You must be stressed.” He tried to play nice. Even it worried Roman. He looked in between the two of you, with his eyebrows raised. You cautiously took a seat, folding your legs across the other. “How are you? We watched what went down. Must’ve been terrible.” Logan checked in. You looked at Roman before looking at Logan. You decided on honesty. “Well- uh I cried a lot. But I’m glad I said what I said.” You breathed out.

“I bet… uh- well… now- now don’t take this so harshly, but I do think it was a good thing they brought them out there. It proves what we are. Doesn’t it? You’re a smart woman.” Logan put an emphasis on your gender. “You knew these news people don’t give a fuck. They’re savages.” Logan tried to bring your guard down, but it didn’t work. You were worried this would end in you being called a moron or being fired. “Listen- seriously. This is coming from me of all people. This was good. It felt good, didn’t it?” He asked you.

You sat with your thoughts before nodding. “Yeah- it kind of did.” You agreed. “I mean- I thought if I ever saw them, I’d run away and cry, I mean I did yesterday… but it felt good to say it out loud. To finally discredit them in public.” This was what Logan wanted. You finally spoke. You let your guard down. You had no defense up. He could screw with your mind.

“It must’ve been. I mean to deal with…” He let out an exaggerated breath of air, shaking his head. “I mean to deal with that, y’know… How long have they been discrediting you?” He needed to know to shut those claims down for as much money as it took. He was going to make you and Shiv the face for their defense against the Cruises. Who better than 2 women, one being a now public assault victim herself?

“As long as I can remember. I mean they used to tell their friends what a bad kid I was. But honestly, I think after I left they even bashed me on social media a bit. It was just to make me…” You started before Logan cut you off.

“To make you feel guilty. Yeah- who was Liam?” Logan wondered. Roman tried to butt in. “Dad- come on…” he tried to stop the questioning, but Logan put his hand up to stop Roman. “I’m just asking. Come on. It’s therapeutic. Isn’t it?” Logan asked you. You felt too intimidated. But all your business was out at this point. This could’ve been out already.

“Uh- Liam was my dad’s brother. Uh- yea. He wasn’t the only one though. Just kind of- y’know…” You shifted. You covered your face with your hair as you pretended to itch to avoid the intense eye contact from Logan.

“I see… Well- what if I did this for you?” Logan proposed. “We take those bastards down… your parents, Liam, and whoever else.” Your eyes light up. You looked at Logan, shocked, but hungry to not only publicly shame them, but completely ruin them. “I can set you up with the best lawyers… the best whatever. And slip something. Make sure, this kind of stuff can’t happen.” Logan continued. You didn’t need to hear the rest. You wanted in.

“Yes- I’d love that. I don’t even care what else you need. I’ll do it.” You jumped at the opportunity. Not only would it prove whoever didn’t think you were wrong, but it would be such a release to you. “Slow down… I just need you to go up there with Shiv from time to time. That’s all I ask.” Logan continued. This would be pocket change to him. But if it influenced you enough and to gain back such sympathy for the company, he would do it. He didn’t care. He just wanted another win to take home.

You got up and agreed. “Logan, you have no idea what this means. Thank you.” You felt so released from all this excoriating journey. But it would be over. The trail would be fast. You had witnesses, you had documents, and you had photos taken by CPS. You had enough evidence.

“Don’t- please.” Logan tried to be humble. “Just take the time. I’ll do what I need to, and you do what you need to. But while you’re here. What do you think of GoJo?” He wanted you to feel a part of it. But he already had his mind made. He was just hoping you’d agree to further his narrative. You stood shocked, looking at Roman, but he still looked nervous for you.

“Uh- I think it’s great… The network needs to modernize and uh- GoJo needs a lot of tweaking. But it’s good.” You quickly put in your input. Logan nodded, looking off as he thought.

“Alright… uh- well. You both could uh- just. Roman do what you need.” He ignored you. You just left with Roman. You were ecstatic. “Did you fucking hear that?” You giggled, nearly jumping as you stood. Roman knew this was off. His dad never cared about this sort of stuff. He never even acknowledged Roman’s abuse. But Roman remembered his gender, Roman’s assault didn’t matter to his father because ‘boys don’t do that’. But he was at least glad you weren’t sobbing. You were smiling.

“Uh- yea… Wow…” He tried to make it sound as big as it did to you. But a lawsuit against average people was something that lasted such a short time with the lawyers they had. It meant nothing. “Hey, but you sure you’re okay? I mean- that was-uh-that was just fucking-…” Roman tried not to offend you.

You nodded with the biggest smile plastered on your face. “Rome- this is the best thing that could’ve happened. This was a fucking gift sent from God him fucking self… I mean fuck! I don’t even believe in the fucker but wow!” You couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous you sounded. “Yeah- cause he’s probably not fucking real.” Roman tried to quickly butt in. “But you know- just… I don’t know.” He dismissed his worries. They were dumb. He should be happy for you. I mean, you were getting something you could only fantasize about. But Roman knew it would come at such a cost. “Look- I love you, okay? Just- fucking- I don’t know. You gotta maybe put yourself first.” Roman tried to express.

“Roman- you have no idea… how long I have been waiting for this. I mean sure Angela and Mick don’t deserve any kind of attention. But this is good. I promise.” You held his hands before pressing a kiss over his rose-tinted lips.

“Alright- I’m just fucking worried- cause y’know… I care and shit.” He almost gagged at the thought of him being this desperately in love. He never saw it ever coming for him. He thought he’d even be single for most of his life or hopping from the next person to the next because they didn’t get him fully.

“Aww- Roman has a cruuuush.” You teased him.

He had a mocking face at you, rolling his eyes. “Fuck off.”

“No- come on- say it.” You continued to test him further and further, but he had walked away from you. He had a meeting to go to. But you didn’t mind. You were just so overfilled with joy. You headed to the break room, finally able to get a sense of peace. Greg hadn’t been in the office to annoy you any longer. He was too busy mooching off of Kendall. But fortunately, Shiv had made her way in to get some kind of weirdly expensive water bottle.

“Oh- uh hey.” Shiv was nervous to confront you. It set in that now everyone saw your victim status. You were fragile. It made you feel weaker for it. “You alright? I mean- I saw what went on. But you okay?” She wondered, taking a seat across from you.

You nodded. “I’m fine.” You couldn’t stop yourself from smiling though. Finally. No more worrying. Just peace. “It was shocking at first, but just- Shiv… it was the most freeing thing ever.” You expressed. She looked at you strangely with a smile on her face.

“Wow- well I’m glad you were okay… uh- did you and Roman want to come over tonight… me and Tom wanted to maybe make you feel more welcomed.” She offered. You felt a warmness fill you, pouting at how sweet of a gesture it was.

“Uh- yea… Thanks, Shiv…” You felt at home. You were a part of yet another family. Granted a very toxic and problematic one, but you had another family. You had lost your little sister to your parents, but you had Jess and Shiv. Shiv never purposely hurt you. Just Kendall. Speaking of Kendall, you wondered how he was reacting to the mess he created.

“Yeah- sure, it’s nothing. Just y’know- I just thought since you and Roman were… yeah…” She sounded disgusted by the thought of her brother in a relationship. “Just thought it’d be a nice thing. Just come by at 8.” She squeezed your hand gently before leaving you alone. You weren’t alone for long before meeting with Roman again.

“Your sister invited us to dinner.” You expressed to him. You were just happy to be involved.

“Oh, fucking great. Now we need to play fucking house.” He groaned at the idea. He didn’t mind being ‘normal’ with you. But he was still upset about the other night. His distain for Shiv came in and out depending on where their hatred lied. But for you, he’d do it.

“It was sweet!” You tried to defend Shiv and this dinner was. But nothing about his family was ever done in the goodness of their heart. He knew it. He did it too. He knew never to trust. Everything was a game. If you didn’t see it as that, you’d lose. Everything was a race. The slowest one was left behind, desperate to keep up. But he was used to it. He never lived a second without being in it.

“Shiv? Come on- she’s literally a fucking uh a fucking killer girl scout. She’s that one girl people always says killed her kid. Fucking-…” He tried to remember her name as you just watched him desperately try to think of insults to throw at Shiv behind her back. “Casey Anthony.” You reminded him.

“Yup. That whore. That’s Shiv.” He made the connection finally.

“You’re being dramatic.” You pushed his concerns away. He was dramatic. It was going to be a harmless dinner. It would’ve been nice anyway. He mimicked your voice, passing your judgment as nothing. He was gonna go anyway. He had to. “Roman, are you going to make me go alone or not?” You crossed your arms.

“Yeah- fucking whatever. We’ll play house.” Roman gave in. You smiled, pressing a kiss over his lips before pulling him off to continue the workday before having to split off at the end of the day. It was nice being able to finally be able to show some kind of affection at work. Or the very least in public. You didn’t need to hide away and sneak around. People were even shocked for Roman. Not that he actually had a partner, but that he was even able to show some kind of affection towards anyone. All of his other partners have had an issue with physical touch. But with you, it was easier. You both read each other's body language well enough.

You entered your apartment, realizing how much you’ve rarely ever been in this space. Most nights you were out on trips or with Roman. And for a brief period, you were with Jess. You hopped into the fairly reminiscent shower. You turned the metal knobs and let the shower head pour out hot water. You forgot how weak the shower head was compared to the nice resorts and hotels you’ve been placed in. You poured your shampoo into your head and scrubbed it into your scalp. You sat there and let the water clear all the soapy bubbles before gliding conditioner through your hair. You spent a while in the shower as your phone blasted music through its speakers. You sang to the lyrics with the passion of a singer on a world tour. You screamed the lyrics, dancing as if you were invoking an emotion in the audience that never existed. “I was enchanted to meet yoooooooou!” You screamed into the wall. Before going into the second verse. You scrubbed your body, holding the loofa as if it were the end of a mic as soon as your favorite lyrics and vibrato of the song came on.

Your phone abruptly died in the middle of another song, cutting your shower short. You wrapped your body in a towel before going to your bedroom/living room. You plugged your phone into the charger before drying yourself off. You put on your makeup shirt, which was an old t-shirt stained with makeup. You sat down in front of your mirror and did your makeup in front of it. You did makeup better without music anyway. It distracted you far too much anyway. You usually put on funny podcasts or YouTube or something dark like true crime to stay focused on your makeup, but you wait for your phone to charge. Along with it being too far and you being too lazy to actually get up and put something on.

You finished up fairly quickly before starting on your hair, styling it simply. You didn’t want to make this as fancy as it was going to be. It was a simple dinner. But Shiv always dressed up in a formal way. You couldn’t imagine her in a regular shirt. Or Tom. You’ve never seen them in regular clothes. She had more reasons to try to remain a ‘professional’ look. If she didn’t she would be seen as less serious as people already took her.  

You finished up before struggling to find something to wear. You just settled on some dress pants and a shirt that you hadn’t worn in months since you’d gotten hired. You had been neglecting your regular clothes as well. You checked the time, realizing how much time you spent before grabbing your bag. You shoved the essentials into it before leaving the house. You ran down to the subway station. You hadn’t been on the train in a while either. It felt strange. You definitely were getting a few stares. You just lowered your head, covering your face with your hair, hoping no confrontation would occur. But 6 minutes into your ride you heard an iPhone camera shutter go off. You looked up and saw a man put his phone down, looking around as if he wasn’t in front of you.

“Sir- can you please just delete that?” You asked politely. He acted oblivious, pointing at himself. “Yes sir, I heard that. Please can you just delete that?” “It’s my freedom.” He said with a snobby attitude. He was clearly some business major douchebag. “Yea- and it’s my freedom to not have men take pictures of me.” You reminded him.

“Is there an issue? Hey man, delete that shit.” Another man who had been standing the entire ride intervened. The man declined before the other guy pressed him enough. “Stupid bratty whore.” He mumbled as he went through the phone to delete the picture as the other guy watched him.

“Woah! What the fuck man?” You rolled your eyes. “Have some fucking respect for the lady.” The other man called him out. You just stood up and went in between the carts to switch carts. You felt uncomfortable being in a space you use to be on daily for 22 whole years.

Thankfully you had just gotten off at the stop you needed to. You left the station, looking down at your phone for the address before making your way over to Shiv and Tom’s apartment. You texted Shiv to let her know you were a block away. You were escorted inside and sent up to their floor. You were greeted by Shiv who was wearing a white pant suit with a black turtleneck. “Hi!” She smiled, bringing you into a hug. “I’m so glad you actually made it. Uh- where’s Rome?” She wondered.

“Oh, I came by myself. He said he’s coming.” You calmed her nerves. She nodded but you pulled your phone out to make sure Roman was actually coming. He texted back to let you know he was in a car downtown at this moment. Shiv just went in on what she had her chefs make you all, but it wouldn’t be done anytime soon.

“Oh my god! I didn’t know you guys had a dog!” You squealed, seeing a large black dog lying down on the ground with a stuffed bear under his head. You walked over, kneeling down. The dog raised his head up, staring up at you with his large brown eyes. “Hi baby…” You said in a soft baby voice as you ran your fingers through its fur and scratched his ears for him. He leaned his heavy head into your small hands as you contagiously giggled.

“Oh-uh yeah. That’s Mondale. He’s mostly Toms.” Shiv tried to interject, but you were fascinated by the large baby in front of you. You always wanted a dog, but in New York, it was hard to have one. Plus, your parents never let you have one. If they did, you wouldn’t trust them around an animal anyway. But eventually, you knew you’d own a variety of pets. The ideas of animals were endless. A dog, chihuahua, Maltese, those cute pug chihuahua mixes, a cat, probably an orange one, a fennec fox, a raccoon, etc. You weren’t the type to think owning such weird animals was okay, but oh my god, they were just too cute to not want one. Realistically you knew the cat and dogs were the only ones you’d genuinely get.

“Who’s a cutie? Huh? You are.” You continued to baby-talk to the dog before finally leaving him alone. “I’m sorry- I just- aww look at him.” You expressed to Shiv.

She smiled, putting her hands up in defense. “No- it’s okay.” She laughed. “I’m sure Mondale very much appreciated the welcome.” She was just happy someone gave him attention. She tried but was far too busy for him. He mostly was attached to Tom or the people who actually took care of him. “Are you doing okay so far?” She checked in with you. She knew your asset value in the company. She did genuinely like you, but she knew she needed to be closer to you.

“Oh-uh, I’m alright. Just a bit of an intense day. I’m glad you invited me over.” You expressed your gratitude. She shooed off the ego boost, wanting to stay humble. But The Roys were nothing close to humble as Roman started his grand entrance into the apartment.

“Sup cunts.” He greeted the room before going to Shiv, giving you a small hug and kiss on the cheek.

“Wow- how sweet of you to show up.” Shiv was annoyed at the term he used against her. It was more so directed at Tom and Shiv than you.

“Fucking cry in your 4000 thread pillows bout it.” Roman shrugged off her annoyance. He was too focused on your well-being and happiness. If he hadn’t, he would’ve never been here.

“You guys are such a healthy family. I mean- I, of all people, should know healthy family dynamics.” You teased both of them, hinting how the toxicity of their dynamic was a bit much.

“Mhm. Exactly. Just like those fuckers from The Brady Bunch. Shiv, which one are you?” Roman played on with the joke. “Rome- ew.” Shiv dismissed him. She was still so shocked someone like you was willing to be involved with Roman. He was awful. And you were well more put together than he was. Maybe it was just an experiment for you. Maybe you were one of those girls who tried to fix other men.

“You’re the one making fucky eyes at me.” Roman tried to defend his joke. But it only grossed Shiv out even more. “Fucky eyes? I’m not making fucky eyes.” Shiv was on the defense. But you were too entertained to stop the arguing just yet. Roman mimicked the look she gave him, standing by his point before you jumped in.

“Okay Roman- enough. Your sister doesn’t want to fuck you. And if you tell me you’ve thought of fucking her, I’m leaving.” You threatened.

“Thank you. Finally, one fucking sane human being involved in this shit.” Shiv was lucky enough that some normal enough was willing to stand her brother for this long. Credit, she’s shocked Roman genuinely even liked women.

“Oh fucking, please. My therapist said I’m perfectly normal.” Roman scoffed. “Your therapist says whatever he does to please you Rome.” Shiv snapped back. You tried to deescalate this before it ended in a very vicious argument where it would upset the other.

“I’m shocked you both even have one. So, where’s Tom?” You asked Shiv. Shiv shrugged before watching Tom come down the stairs just in time to save you from this.

“Oh great. The fucking normies are here now.” Roman giggled. You glared at him. You were slightly annoyed to be grouped in as ‘normie’ based on your upbringing not being extremely rich and privileged. He tried to apologize with a hand hold and kiss on the shoulder though. You had him completely whipped. “Hey- thank you so much for coming.” Tom tried to play it cool as he reached out to shake your hand. You took it regardless. “Tom, we’ve met before.” You snickered at how formal he had been.

Shiv was already on your side. “Yeah, honey. Come on.” She tapped him on the shoulder.

“No- I- uh- I know. I just thought it’d be- uh- just polite to our guests.” Tom tried to save some sort of face, but Roman made it worse as he stood up straighter and put his hand out to Tom. “So glad we could make it. Tell me your name again? Don’t care.” Roman tried to mimic and make fun of Tom, but Shiv would defend Tom against only Roman.

“You were at our fucking wedding dick.” Shiv rolled her eyes, trying to defend her husband in front of you, knowing it’s what ‘a good wife’ would do.

“Hmm still didn’t care to learn his name.” Roman shrugged. “Have a more memorable wedding next time sis.” You were shocked to hear how vulgar and rude Roman could be. Especially to Tom.

“Roman, he didn’t mean anything by it.” You reprimanded him in a soft tone. “Uh- well. Tom how’s ATN doing?” You asked.

But Tom was stressed about other things to even worry about ATN but had to put on a brave enough face for the crowd. “Oh- it’s been just fine. You know… just- fucking trying to dodge the Nazis out of the building.” He accidentally reminded you of the scandal of them nearly hiring a new news anchor with a white supremacy background.

“What? A fucking Nazi?” You questioned. Roman just giggled in the back, watching how terribly nervous and shaken Tom had been.

“It’s such a long drawn-out story.” Tom tried to die down the topic. “When’s the food ready?” Tom was eager to leave this conversation and move onto something else. “How have you been? It’s been a long day, huh?” He sent over his fake condolence. God, you wish people would stop asking.

“Oh- just fine. Just some family drama.” You simplified it to that.

It always felt awkward around Tom. Maybe because he already had someone who didn’t fit into their world. He couldn’t collect all of you. It felt like there was no gain to have, especially with you being a woman. And being so attached to the man who reminded him constantly of his shortcomings.

“Dinner should be ready in 5 minutes. We’ll set up the table.” One of the chefs informed Shiv and Tom. She nodded and sent them off their way. The table had been set up shortly and you were all instructed on when to finally come in. You sat alongside Roman as Tom and Shiv sat across. Plates of food slowly poured through the door and were set in front of you.

“Thank you for having us again Shiv.” You thanked her once again as she grabbed the bottle of wine off the table and began to unscrew it.

“It’s nothing. Don’t stress.” She popped the cork out and poured herself a glass before setting the bottle down for grabs. You poured one glass before passing it around to everyone else at the table.

“Did you see what Kendall said to the press earlier? He’s completely gone ape shit.” She struck up a conversation with Roman. Roman raised an eyebrow, waiting for Shiv to tell him. “He said the reason we have not joined ties with him is because we’re scared of dad and that dad’s using a victim's trauma for views and sympathy.” Shiv laughed at how ridiculous it was for Kendall.

“But you both are scared of Logan.” You pointed out. Shiv paused as if she hadn’t ever been scared of him. Definitely Roman and sometimes Kendall, but she didn’t think she was. Maybe a little.

“Well- that’s just… that’s not why we don’t support him. I mean he’s trying to put us in jail for something. I mean- Tom might even go to prison.” Shiv explained, but you shrugged. You didn’t see any of that happening. Sure, everything was pretty serious, but how long can this investigation go? Why would they arrest the kids who had no say in it? They didn’t purposely hide evidence.

“I don’t know. I think Ken is digging himself a grave. He keeps bringing up victims this, victims that, it’s starting to seem disingenuous. As if these women aren’t a person with a name and life; just victims.” You scoffed at how disgusting Kendall had been. He refused to even say your name. Just saying ‘victim’ as a placeholder instead. He didn’t view you as a person. Just something to profit off of.

“I’m sorry….” Shiv tried to apologize to you. You shook your head, not wanting to focus on it.

“Ken ever since high school has been a fraud. He thinks reading women talk about hating men is a personality trait.” Roman knew this was the best way to remove the topic off of you and onto him and Kendall. “Can you please start reading books to him at night? I feel like he only listens to you.” Shiv rolled her eyes at her brother's sexism.

“No amount of training can make Roman less hateful.” Tom disagreed with Shiv. “Oh, come on. You’ve seen how he’s been. He’s completely pussy whipped. I’ve never seen-“ Shiv laughed at her brother's expense. “Fucking haha. Fuck you. I’m not like Tom.” Roman decided to fire back. Shiv couldn’t help but laugh at her brother's annoyance.

“Rome- It wasn’t meant anything bad. You just now know what it’s like to be a regular boy.” Shiv continued to prod Roman’s insecurities of not being normal. You held his hand under the table for some kind of comfort, looking at him carefully to show him some kind of support.

“Everyone finds their person at different stages.” You defended. “I mean how old were you and Tom when you both got together?” You asked to get off the topic of Roman. This whole dinner was filled with one person being the main target of the conversation to only be jumped to the next target.

“We met back in college.” Tom smiled at Shiv lovingly as he reminisced back at the time, but Shiv seemingly wanted to forget that part of her life.

“Tell them when you both actually met.” Roman incited the story, chewing on his food amused at what the true tale was.

“That’s not- ugh… I was just a dumb fucking college student. Uh- yea it was finally when I was away from dad, so at a party I threw up in front of everyone and Tom held my hair in the bathroom.” Shiv tried to make it seem as though it was a lot harsher than it truly was. Everyone had those phases in college. It was just the college experience. You were a lot worse a few years ago when you started college. You were sneaking into clubs, doing coke with strangers, acid, molly, ketamine, whatever the fuck you were ever given.

“Oh- that’s sweet of him though.” You tried to praise Tom. Tom appreciated that some kind of good intentions were brought into his actions.

“I guess. I mean it was humiliating.” Shiv hid her face.

“No- I mean seriously. If he was some stranger and he took you home to only help you out, that’s incredibly sweet. He could’ve just ignored it like everyone.” You kept trying to push the narrative. Shiv nodded, looking at Tom finally smiling about the moment they met. Maybe it was sweet of Tom.

“I mean- I saw her beforehand a few times. But I finally went to the party she always went to. And her friends- woo- awful people. But yea- they just left her there. So instead of letting her be even more embarrassed, I carried her to her dorm and stayed with her till she was okay. And then asked her out in the morning.” Tom continued to recollect the memories of him and Shiv. Deep down, he was truly in love with her. It just was hard to love her. Shiv put her hand over Tom’s and squeezed it lightly.

“Well- me and y/n met through a hooker website.” Roman lied as if they didn’t already know how you and Roman had met.

You giggled, but the rest of them didn’t. You always found Roman ridiculous. No one understood how you could so carelessly laugh at the weird disgusting shit he ever said.

The moment you stepped into Roman’s apartment, you finally allowed yourself to cry. You fell down to your knees, hand on the wall, and sobbed. Your tears wouldn’t stop. Your chest hurt. You felt as though you had been struck by lightning. Tingles were being sent throughout your entire body. And for a moment, just a moment, you felt like you were the only thing in the universe. Nothing around you existed. It was all just space. Your hand let go of the wall and fell onto the hardwood floor as you screamed out in agony. A lost child in the world. The only words you could get out were ‘Why?’ You seemed to repeat them over and over again as your sobs muffled them. Roman put his hands on your shoulder and tried to lift you up, but you simply didn’t have the energy to fully get up. Your legs felt like jelly. They wobbled just by holding up your torso. “No-Please-no.” You wept as Roman put your arm around him. His arm was around your waist as he slowly picked you up from your feet. “At least get on the couch. C’mon…” He softly spoke as he tried to get you to at least hold yourself together for a little bit. “It’s okay. I’m here.” He tried to assure you. That bit of reassurance gave you some strength to actually pull yourself up. Your nose dripped as you sniffled and wiped your nose. You allowed him to softly carry you, with guidance of your feet as well, to the couch where you dropped down once again. Your body curled in on itself as you began to silently weep. Your body shook at the shock your body just went through. Roman kneeled down in front of you as he moved your hair out of your face. “Hey- come on. It’s gonna be okay. I’ll make sure security never allows them near anymore. It’s okay.” He tried to understand. He understood the pain, but not fully. He didn’t understand the extent of your hurt. But he was willing to. “Whenever you’re ready to, I’m right here. Okay?” He murmured. You nodded, wiping your eyes before finally taking a look at him. He looked at you with soft brown eyes, his pink rose-colored lips in a pout. It hurt him just as much to see you this way. There was a sense of understanding of not ever bringing them up ever again as he had previously. If he understood it was this bad, he would’ve kept his mouth shut. You nodded. “Thank you…” You weakly spoke. Your voice was hoarse. It was as if you were a child all over again.

-15 years ago-

After another round of your father screaming at you because your mother had sent in a complaint about your behavior to him, you laid in your pink Princess-themed bed, your blanket close to your chest and mouth to muffle the crying that held them.

Your mother had stepped inside to check in on you. Despite all the abuse, they both had their moments of care. She sat at the end of the bed. You flinch a bit out of anger. You stiffened your sniffles as you tried to collect yourself in front of her out of fear of punishment. “I’m sorry baby… I just wanted you to realize you can’t be making such a mess. Do you understand now?” She whispered, moving your blanket from you, hoping she’d be able to replace it. You nodded, roughly covering your eyes with your hands as you wiped away your tears.

“Yes, Mommy…” You mumbled before she opened her arms out to you.

“Come on…” She begged. You shook your head no. “Oh, so you hate me now?” She blamed you. A child.

“No…” You tried to assure her, without actually knowing. She grew angrier if you didn’t hug her, so you finally sat up and crawled over to her before weakly putting your arms around her.

She held you and rocked you before placing a kiss on the top of your hair. “I love you.” She whispered.

“I love you too mommy…”

-current-

After nearly half an hour of crying, you tired yourself out. Tears stopped falling out and Roman sat on the floor the entire time. He nearly suggested everything he could to make you calm down. His head laid down on his couch as he brushed your hair with his hand. “Thank you, Roman…” You said again.

He hushed you, pressing a soft and tender kiss over your forehead. Something you’ve never felt. You’ve been given a kiss on the forehead by your parents and by terrible boyfriends after they had made you cry, but it lacked any love in them.

You felt safe. No matter what, Roman would never abandon you. It eased every thought you ever had. You pulled him tightly, hiding your face into his neck. You didn’t want to let go of him. His body simply had no idea how to react, but once his thoughts settled in, he allowed himself to put his arms around you. “You really love me.” You mumbled, pressing your lips onto his jaw. He nodded. He was happy enough to let you see the amount of love he had for you. “I’m sorry. I’m fucking- ugh- I’m a fucking nut case. I’m just- I’m so grateful for you and everything. Especially today. I really- god. Fuck.” You couldn’t keep yourself together. You pulled away from him, your eyes meeting his. He pressed his head on your lap, looking up at you.

“Alright- alright. Enough with this. It’s getting fucking weird now.” Roman didn’t want to acknowledge himself. You finally allowed yourself to smile. You cupped his cheeks and brought him in for a kiss.

“Can we just- fucking- I don’t know. Just- do whatever we were doing, but not as secret?” You asked. You regretted ever doubting him or his intentions. You can see it now.

“It’s not really secretive anymore…” Roman reminded you. You lightly pushed him, having the strength to even sit up by yourself now. You felt like shit, still, but Roman’s presence kept you afloat.

“You’re a fucking idiot.” You giggled, looking down at him as he was still on the floor. The look he gave you was almost something out of a movie. He was worshiping you. Everything you did. Even at such a vulnerable moment. “Get the fuck up off the floor.” You ordered, giggling through your words.

“I like looking at you from here.” Roman allowed himself to be just as vulnerable as you. You melted at his words. “So, we’re genuinely fucking doing this? You’re not humiliated or anything?” He asked, making sure you wouldn’t back out again if things got hard between the two of you. “Roman- I was never humiliated of you. I just didn’t want what happened to happen, but yes. We’re actually doing this.” His lips curved downwards, suppressing a smile. He stood up, pressing his lips against yours as he hovered above you. His hand rested under your chin as his other dropped down to hold you closer to him. He was glad to finally stop hiding. Instead of holding himself back from being able to show you to others that you were not someone who was available to anyone, but him. Your phone rang, breaking the kiss apart.

‘jess <3’ read on the screen with a picture of the two of you appearing. You were not in the best mood to speak to her, especially since her boss is the reason you had to see your parents once again along with the excessive issues now being brought to you. You reluctantly answered.

“Hey…” You sighed into the phone, Roman finally stopped hovering and took a seat next to you. He laid his back onto the grey modern suede couch as his head rested on your lap. He looked up at you, a sense of comfort washing over him.

“Hi… I just saw the article. Holy fucking- wow. Are you alright?” She asked. You were especially annoyed about the night before. She had been so persistent that Kendall was the good guy. Even after the bullshit he had pulled that night. Roman was still the villain and you were guilty by association.

“Which one? The one where your boss slandered the both of us?” You said in a sassy and clearly annoyed tone.

“Huh? Ken didn’t do that. Come on y/n, I know you’re mad at him, but don’t pin this on him.” She tried to argue with you.

“Oh, so was it you then?” You questioned her. If it wasn’t Kendall, it would only place her as the next only available suspect.

“Oh please. I wouldn’t do that. Don’t do that shit now.” She scoffed at the accusation.

“Well, you and Ken were the only ones aware of the details. Gerri too. But it wouldn’t make sense for Gerri. Why would she want to ruin the company she just got promoted to? So, it’s either the one trying to ruin the company's reputation or you.” You fired. She was aware of it, but she couldn’t believe Kendall was that malicious. “Okay, I get you’re annoyed. But are you aware you both didn’t hide it well?” She tried to reason. You scoffed, not believing how hard she was fighting for Kendall’s innocence. “But to know it happened in Pierce’s is strange, huh?”

“Maybe one of the Pierce’s spilled.”

“Ken knew the details. End of story. You can tell him to fucking watch himself after this. Cause I just went after his neck.” You snapped on the phone. You could feel the eye roll Jess gave you through the phone.

“Calm down. There’s no reason for all that.” It was annoying how much she stood by Kendall rather than her own best friend.

“It is. My name is out there. All my information is. People know me, Jess. Angela and Mick found me. They came to the building!” You were furious, you weren’t even aware that you were screaming into the phone. It was aggravating to hear. Especially after seeing Mick and Angela.

“Oh god… What happened? What’d they do?” Her concern finally kicked in. She never expected it to go that far. “What’d they want?”

“I don’t know. I just ran off.” You mumbled, rubbing your forehead. Jess began to apologize profusely.  “It’s fine… Uh- I’m just trying to relax. But tell Kendall, I hope he enjoys my interview on his shitty attempt.” You said before hanging up. You laid your phone flat on the couch, looking up at the ceiling. “What a nightmare…” You said. You felt like you said that all day. You looked down at Roman, a small smile appearing on your lips. You were glad he was here for you. You reached over, grabbed his hand, and held it in yours. “I’m glad you’re here for me…” You expressed. “Yeah- well, you’ve been there for me too.” Roman brushed it off, not wanting to take any credit for it. He played with your dainty fingers, looking down at them as he did. “Can we stop being so fucking sappy already?” He tried to remove himself so all the emotion in the room. “I can get the chef over to make us whatever the fuck you can actually eat.” He suggested. You nodded, pressing a kiss over his forehead.

You both felt safe. Nothing could harm you both. “You know, since people know you now, it’d be time to move in. I could hire some vegan chef for you.” He tried to hint at you. You weren’t sure if it was a hint since it was so blatant. “Roman-“ You didn’t want to have this talk. “One step at a time.” You didn’t want to move in. You weren’t ready for that commitment. It was too fast too soon. “We just made it official. No need to rush.” You reminded him.

It might’ve even made the whole scandal worse too. The older man dragged his younger assistant to move into his house. The media would make this seem like a grooming situation or something easy to twist. When in reality it was just a man with a lot of insecurity and attachment issues. You and Roman decided to have an easy day for the two of you. It was a harsh day for the two of you. A lot of things being brought up and things being dug up. But you both shut your phones off and decided to keep it relaxing. You ignored calls and texts, not wanting to deal with all the drama being spread around.

You both lay on his couch, Roman’s fingers combing through your hair as you decided on the worst movie possible to watch. You had no idea what it would be about other than everyone talking about it. It was just a kind of movie about realities, and it being broken down and multiverse bullshit. Roman interrupted the movie at least a thousand times to make jokes or ask you what was even going on. But it turned into a movie about generational trauma and parental issues, which got to you. You curled into Roman, letting a few tears slip.

“What do you think they even fucking wanted?” Roman interrupted the movie once again. “I think she just wanted to be… oh wait, who?” You asked as you sniffled. “Mick and Angela.” He shrugged. He knew not to call them your mom and dad anymore. “I have no fucking clue.” You mumbled, moving on from it. “Do you think they maybe wanted to check on you or-“ Roman didn’t know what happened between the three of you, but he wanted to understand. If they were so awful, why would they want to see their kid again after so many years? It made you wonder too, but you knew it wasn’t for good reasons. It was probably something stupid.

“No. Roman you may be in contact with your shitty fucking parents-” You were quick to insult. “Woah-okay. They’re not-“ Roman didn’t want this to be switched over to him. “No, they are. Roman your dad knocked your tooth out last month over a joke your sister made.” You couldn’t believe how normal Roman made it in his head that his father had hit him.

“Oh, fuck off- everyone's parents hit them.” He reasoned. He was convinced of it. He was definitely hit the most and Kendall and Shiv were threatened. He wasn’t sure if they ever were hit by Logan. But Logan had told them about his uncle and the abuse Logan faced. Logan was a heavily abused child but didn’t ever see his abuse ever being as bad as his uncles. “Plus, he didn’t mean to. He said he didn’t even think he made contact. So just fuck off. Okay?” You were stunned watching him try to rationalize his abuse. It infuriated you, but you felt too much pity for him. “Roman, I don’t know much, but from what I have heard, it’s not a normal relationship.”

“I don’t think I should take advice from you.” He scoffed. He was 100% in the wrong. He was the one person he should take advice from. As someone who escaped abuse yet him and his siblings were in a repeated cycle of abuse they could never break out of.

“Fucking shut up.” You dismissed him. “Just don’t ask about them.” You put the boundary up. You never wanted to talk heavily about them. Or Roman’s issues. Roman was too far into his cycle, he couldn’t break the cycle. Not yet at least. It was going to take a god sent to ever break Roman out of it.

You both sat there, two broken children damaged by parents to try to fix the scars left from what had been done to one another.

Roman stared as you had moved away, sitting by yourself. “Are you on your period?” He genuinely asked, not knowing it was incredibly offensive to ask.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” You wondered out loud.

“I’m just saying! I don’t fucking know. Do you need to sleep or something?” He asked. You just sat, looking off for a bit before nodding. You needed to finally sleep this off. You had been incredibly exhausted from today. Roman just got up, putting his hand for you to hold. You gladly took it, pulling yourself close enough to him. He wasn’t comfortable with his space being taken in a lot, but he knew it was something you needed. He led you up the stairs to his room before getting you to lie down in his bed. He had put the comforter over you before joining you. “You’re gonna be alright. Just- fucking forget those pricks.” He finally said. It was just what you needed to hear at the moment.

You didn’t realize how tired you actually had been before you had gotten into bed. You smothered your face into the pillow and were almost instantly knocked out. You had woken up with Roman gone. You looked around, seeing his side of the bed undone. You took it upon yourself to just get ready before heading downstairs. You saw Roman ready for work, drinking a cup of coffee. He looked up at you, his eyebrows shooting up. “Hey, you snore really fucking loud by the way.” He said as he scrolled through his phone.

“Sorry.” You muttered before making yourself a cup of coffee and sitting with Roman. “I thought you actually needed the sleep.” He admits out loud to you. “Uh- we have to get to the office soon though. Just uh- yeah.” He was reading another article that had dropped but didn’t have the heart to tell you.

Apparently, your parents had gone to the press to speak about your interaction the other day, but insisted you were ‘brainwashed’. He just didn’t want to bring it to your attention. But the article went into a false narrative of how you were such a sweet and loving kid with the most amazing parents who had supported you through college. Only to drift away once you got hired and completely cut contact once you and Roman had gotten together. It was a stunt to get some kind of money out of it. They went into false stories of you as a child to how you tried to say hi, but Roman dragged you away. But photos were scattered as you were screaming and yelling, not helping the case at all. It truly was the most insane thing Roman had seen in a while. Gerri had been blowing his phone up all morning, waking him up.

Meanwhile, you got ready, thankfully you kept one or two outfits at Roman’s or had sent some whenever you needed to. You did your makeup before heading downstairs. You were escorted by a guard with Roman, seeing once again another crowd filling up the building. You gripped Roman, preparing for it again after yesterday. You heard yelling coming your way as they asked about your parents. They asked if you were safe. Why don't speak to your parents? You had not a single clue on how they knew any of this. It was concerning. You looked around, seeing people trying to get your attention. Fuck. Your breathing began to get restricted again as your grip on Roman began to loosen up. You felt weak. Your bones felt as thin as a stick. You thankfully made it into the building safely before sitting down to finally catch your breath. “Someone get her water” Roman announced. Which they quickly did for you. You didn’t have the strength to hold it up yourself so Roman put it up to your lips again and let you sip on the bottle.

You avoided looking at the crowd before going into the elevators. “I can’t handle another day of this.” You laid your head on the metal walls of the elevator, staring as the red numbers got higher and higher til you both were on your floor.

“Where the hell have you two been? It is 12 goddamn in the afternoon. We set for you to go on tv in an hour.” Gerri had come up to the two of you once you had stepped out of the elevator. “What the fuck is going on?” You demanded to know. There was too much secrecy happening. That must’ve been why Roman was so easy on you this morning. He was too soft. He was never that considerate. He always tried to make jokes. But today he was silent. He hadn’t been able to fully look at you unless there was pity.

“Did you not- oh god, fuck.” Gerri huffed. She pinched the bridge of her nose. “Uh- let’s go sit down, okay?”

You looked at Roman for some comfort, but he just looked at the floor, pretending to get something out of his eye. You were escorted to Gerri’s new office before the news was dropped. “Your parents went to the media and made some rather big claims. Uh- they said you were a normal kid until you met Roman and they think that because of Roman, you stopped speaking to them and that you cut them off 'cause Roman was grooming and isolating you.” She felt terrible having to say it. “Have you stopped talking to them since Roman?” She had to ask. She needed some context as to why this must’ve happened. Thankfully, but unthankfully, Logan heard the news and let out his frustrations already.

“I hadn’t talked to them in 5 years Gerri. I moved out when I was 17. I refused to talk to them way before I even moved out. This is a bunch of bullshit. Roman, did you know about this?” You knew if he would lie. It was a certain look that gave away when he was uncomfortable. His neck would stretch out, his arms crossed and his face almost light up as if he was pretending to hear something for the first time. He just shrugged. You furrowed your eyebrows before he finally spilled. “Gerri told me… Uh- yeah. I just- I don’t know- fucking you were crying all day and I didn’t wanna make you, you know, crying all day again.” He tried to defend himself. You were just shocked this was dropped on you. This nightmare just got worse and worse.

“It’s going to be okay. We just need you to go on MNN and discredit everything. Just tell your actual truth.” Gerri made it simpler than it was. Even Roman knew it wasn’t easy. You wanted to reject the idea, but you knew this wouldn’t stop unless you did. Your face scrunched up before balling up, your head touching your knees as you began to weep again. “no-no-no-nonononononooooo.” You moaned as you held your head. It was as if a child was hiding in a corner, not wanting to be seen by others. You wished this would stop. You thought they’d finally leave you alone. But it wasn’t going to end for a while. You knew that. You felt Roman’s hands on your shoulders as he tried in some way to be there for you. You could feel the looks of pity on you. This was humiliating for you. But thankfully Gerri’s room was mostly covered. You spent a while crying, being consoled by both Roman and Gerri before you were forced to stop. Gerri thankfully had makeup wipes on her for you to be able to take off the running and disgusting makeup you had cried off. As you wiped the white makeup removed across your face, coloring it with your makeup, you looked over as Gerri spoke. “I’m sorry sweetheart, but we’re gonna have to leave soon. Roman just hold it down for today. Your father wants to speak to you about GoJo. I’ll be with y/n.” She knew it would be a bad look if Roman came. It would seem as if you were being controlled. Everything you did had to be calculated. You waved off to Roman before seeing texts from Jess, wondering if you were alright. An idea came. What if you weren’t the only one dismissing it? “What if I brought Jess to the interview?” You asked Gerri on your way out of the building. “She knows what happened. If it isn’t just me saying it and also Kendall’s assistant, it would give validity to my story, wont it?” You tried to convince her. But she was in as soon as you brought it up. You rang up Jess. She obviously answered. “What are you doing right now?” You asked her.

“Uh- nothing right now. Kendall is uh- busy.” She tried to cover up the fact he was off doing drugs right now. He seemed to be even more addicted to it than ever and his behavior truly showed it.

“Come do the interview with me. Please. My parents went to the news. And if-“ You were ready to beg, but Jess wouldn’t resist ever help you out. “Send me the address. I’ll be there.” She hung up. Gerri gave a pleased smile, knowing this would turn out perfectly.

You had texted her the building's address, putting your phone away, and touching up your makeup. You decided on just some blush and mascara, hoping you wouldn’t cry. But it was a possibility. And you weren’t willing to be a laughingstock. Jess had kept on her word and met you in the lobby of the building. She rushed over, hugging you tightly. You held her as if she were the blanket you used to hold for comfort as a child. You took in every bit of her to feel a bit safe, especially without Roman around.

“Come on. It’s gonna be okay…” She whispered. You let go, looking at her one last time before going up the elevator. Gerri tried to walk you through it. But it barely registered. Everyone in the world would now know you as the abuse victim. You weren’t ready, but you had to be. Your reputation was being dragged anyways. You walked onto the set, being met with other assistants who were willing to accommodate you. You were told you’d be on in just 10 minutes. “Uh- my friend is willing to do the interview with me. She knows everything.” You tried to talk to a producer who had been passing by. He took a look at her, then at you, ready to reject your request. “She’s also Kendall’s assistant.” You blurted. That sounded like money and views to them, so it was allowed. Jess would then be bumped to go before you. You were willing to send them over old photos of you that would be popped up on the screen. Soon the interview would start. Jess gave your hand a squeeze before deciding to go up onto the set.

“Hello. We have Jess Jordan here today. Assistant of Kendall Roy and College friend and ex-roommate of y/n y/l/n.” The announcer said as a photo came up on the screen of the televisions plastered around the set. “It is unexpected to see you. Thank you for coming on.” They smiled over at her. “Thank you for having me.” Jess politely smiled back. “So, you were friends with y/n for how long now?” They asked. They were one of the most popular news people in the world. They had interviewed past presidents, congressmen, businessmen, and celebrities. It was intimidating just looking at them. “We had known each other since y/n started college. We went to Fordham together and were paired up as roommates. Uh- yeah. When I met her, she was pretty much what every 18-year-old was. But I don’t know, she had something else about her that made her just glad to be around her. Like we just instantly clicked. She’s essentially like my sister now. It’s probably been 4 or 5 years now?”

“Oh lovely. And when you met her, did you ever meet her parents?” They asked Jess.

Jess shook her head no. There was the pitiful look again. So much sadness for something that didn’t happen to them. But sadness that they had to know such people existed. “Uh no. Y/n never talked about them. Honestly, it took her a while before telling me she didn’t even speak to them.” She thought it would be better to break the ‘my parents abused me’ story than you. “Oh, well they said she had stopped speaking to them. Are you saying that’s not true?” They asked a bit taken aback by Jess’s response. “Yeah, that’s completely wrong. Y/n had told me she cut contact since she was 16. I mean once I heard all the things they put her through, I mean, I’m shocked she lasted that long even talking to them.” Jess was worried about how much to say. But it would be an easier TV appearance for you.

“So, you have never met them?” They tried to understand. Jess just nodded. “Nope. Even while moving in. She carried those boxes in every day that week by herself. But it’s not like she doesn’t have anyone. Luckily my mom and dad were willing to take her in as their own. Again, she’s literally exactly like a sister to me. Even with all the fighting and bickering and yelling and punches, we could never be mad at each other. It’s almost as if we were kids again.” She wanted to put an emphasis on how much of a lost childhood you had. “My parents gave her everything a child needed and wanted.”

“Wow. Well, that’s very heartwarming. Let’s bring her out then.” They announced your appearance. Every step matched your heartbeat. It was as if everything was slowing down but going extremely fast all at once. You felt the lights on you beaming and the immense pressure was put back on you. You just put a fake smile on before greeting the newscaster and taking a seat closer to them. “Hi. It’s nice to finally meet the new girl on the block.” They joked. But you had to laugh it off. It was extremely offending to you, but you couldn’t show it or else you’d be a bitch all over the internet.

“Uh- Hi. Thank you for having me and letting me speak.” You were thankful that you were able to dismiss these claims, just wished it never happened. “Well first off, how are you doing?” They checked in. You took a deep breath, nodding as you tried to pick an answer. You decided with honesty. “Well- I’ve been a lot better. It’s been a rough two days. But I’m hoping I could end it here today.” You allowed yourself to genuinely smile a bit.

“Good, I’m glad we could do that for you. Uh- so I guess I’ll jump into it, huh? Jess just told us you hadn’t spoken to your parents in over 5 years now. What happened there?” “Uh- wow. Uh well, it was a lot of things honestly. They weren’t the greatest parents honestly. They really enforced the idea in me that not everyone should be parents. And they really shouldn’t have been.” You were realistic.

“What do you mean by that?” “They were uhm- I’m sorry…” You began to tear up. The newscaster grabbed a tissue out of the tissue box and handed it off to you.

“It’s alright. Take your time…” They tried to keep you calm enough. You were now the victim. Not the abuser like your parents stated.

“No-no. It’s okay. I’m ready to talk about it now. Well so, wow. Sorry.” You uncomfortably laughed as you tried to wipe the tears wielding up in your eyes. You blotted them before continuing. “Okay so, uhm- well- they were extremely emotionally and physically abusive. I must’ve gotten in trouble twice a day for something. Uhm, they used a lot of physical ‘discipline’ if you could call it that, and a lot of physiological torment to get back at me.” You were trying to be as non-descriptive as possible.

“Can you give us an example?” They asked. You nodded. “Uhm so, one time when I was 6 I had broken a doll of mine, so when I told them they responded with- oh- sorry…” Your voice cracked as your face started to scrunch up. “They essentially broke all my toys because I didn’t know how to play with them, so I didn’t deserve them. And essentially hit me with whatever they were throwing around and-and-uhm…” Your hands shook. Jess reached over, holding your hand to keep you calm. “Please- take your time if you need to.” The newscaster began to try to console you. “I’m okay. I swear. Uhm this is just the first time I’ve spoken about this in a bit. So, yeah. They hit me a lot. If you check records, if they’re possible, CPS came over a lot. I was starved, I was overfed then to be humiliated. I was forced to cut my hair really short. I wasn’t being taken care of. They sent me to school with no supplies or clean clothes. They said I was a waste of money and space. Uhm- then…” You began to fully cry again. You covered your face as you had accidentally let tears come out. “I’m sorry…” You apologized to everyone. Everyone in the interview, the room, the company, Roman, and whoever was watching this. “So uhm- someone had uhm- uh- sexually abused me when I was younger. And when I got old enough… my mom and dad said I seduced him… and asked for it… And it was my fault…” Your voice quivered, unable to look up at the camera or anyone for that matter. Jess leaned in as far as possible to rub your back. “When I was a kid a lot of it was just psychological, but once I got older it became a lot more physical and verbal. So, uh… when I was 16, I got a job. Made my own money. Got my own food, bought my own things. And at 17, I stopped speaking to them fully. So, when I finally was out of high school, I couch-surfed for a while. Then I got an email telling me I got accepted to Fordham and I just- I fled. I blocked their numbers. Got a new phone and moved on.” You went into details finally. It was the first time you fully went into detail about a lot of it. “I’m sorry for crying…” you apologized once more, taking another tissue to keep your appearance up.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It’s just your parents told other sources a lot of other details. They had said they just finally wanted to make peace…” They tried to explain the reason for all of this, more so for the audience than you. “What did you think they wanted yesterday?” They asked. You shrugged. “Well- not to jump into this so quickly. But they had actually agreed to meet and try to fix the broken relationship.” They slowly eased you in. Your head snapped, looking around as if you were a deer being chased by a pack of lions.

“What?” You asked before seeing your parents coming in. You looked around for help only seeing Gerri giving you a pitiful look. This sudden ambush sent an internal flame around you. You wanted to hear what they had to say. An older familiar couple took a seat on the other side of the stage of you, looking at you pleading. It was all a show. They were phenomenal at acting. All the best narcissists are.

“Thank you for joining us. What do you have to say to y/n claims?” They asked. “It was lovely for you to bring us on to finally get us to reconnect with her. We had been trying to for such a long time…” Angela pretended. You looked at her with a hatred that could be read through any screen.

“Our daughter…” Mick started before you cut them off.

“I’m not your daughter. Isn’t that what you told me after I snuck food into my room? Or when I missed a homework assignment. Or when I just-“ You continued to name innocent things off before Mick wanted to regain the control.  

“You’re still my baby girl sweetheart. I know we weren’t great, but you know those aren’t true. We just want you safe home.” Mick was trying to lay it on thick.

“No, you don’t. What was this all for? Huh? Be honest for once in your life. Please.” Your tone was harsh and coarse. “Honey- please. You know this isn’t all true…” Angela tried to gain sympathy from the audience. “Why else would we run to your job after seeing a man 15 years older than you? We’re worried. Please.” “Don’t. If you wanted to contact me, you could’ve contacted the college. You could’ve found me in multiple ways. Instagram is another way.” You gave out good points. “Seriously. After years of hitting me and punching me and locking me in closets, why would you come now? Is it the attention? The money? Well? What is it?” You tried your best to not raise your voice. “Should we also bring in my elementary school teachers here? Well? Or the CPS workers?” You tried to antagonize them, but they wouldn’t budge.

“You know that’s not true.” Mick tried to say again. All you could do was laugh. They grew angrier and their mask started to slip.

“No seriously. Tell me. What was it? Why did you hate your kid so much? Huh? Is it because Angela had to quit college? Or that you had to be stuck with her? Because you had to leave college early and get a worthless job? Hm? Are you mad I did everything on my own? I raised myself. Okay? You didn’t. Angela was high. You were high. You both were absolute drunks and addicts. I fed myself. And when you found out, you hit me so hard that I had to miss a week of school! Oh, and god forbid I ask for a toy. At Goodwill! A $3 doll! Oh yeah. I remember that. I had to miss the neighbor's pool party because we couldn’t show them the bruises. Or when your fucking brother touched me! Oh, but it’s my fault. An 8-year-old girl walking in just shorts because all her shirts were dirty was asking for it. Fuck you. Fuck Angela. And fuck Liam.” You stormed off set. Your parents just watched, showing everyone that they were frauds while Jess ran after you.  It was oddly therapeutic to finally stand up to them and tell them everything. To finally confront them. It felt freeing. You went to Gerri as you three rushed out of there.

Gerri got message after message from the PR team about the response. It was overwhelmingly good. Multiple children abuse victims related and sympathized. They were able to see through the façade immediately while the general public only could see it after your outburst. It was all over social media. But this only meant more people digging up things about you. Fuck.

Notes: Self care is important.

After the media storm that was Kendall’s stunt against his father, work was a complete nightmare. You had left Roman’s apartment with him to only have to wait in the car for what seemed forever to have the guards clear the pathway for the both of you. The media hounded and shouted with protestors screaming horrific things. You kept your head low, grabbing onto Roman’s forearm in hopes of not getting lost in the crowd. “Fucking psychos…” Roman said to you loud enough for you to hear over all the yelling.

You both escaped the crowd and walked into the building to only see the horrors of the office as people were scrambling. “Fucking Kendall…” Roman was obviously annoyed. The office was trying to keep all its investors in place. It was bad enough that the scandal was getting to them, but a family member speaking against the company, the CEO, and his father made it worse. You sat in Roman’s office, making calls before being interrupted by Gerri. She had her phone in hand, clearly annoyed. “You both have issues. Right now.” She showed us her phone and saw another headline. But the headline read about Roman. You read the title, your heart sinking immediately after.

‘Roman Roy, Waystar CEO son, caught multiple times with young assistant.’

There had been photo after photo of the two of you, mostly from the night before and this morning of the two of you being close and sneaking off to go to Roman’s apartment. You had been named, with your age being prevalent in the story. The article went into detail about apparent sources finding out about the relationship early on along with lies. The lies just went into multiple inappropriate comments Roman had made towards you and a possible pressure to sleep with your boss. And worst of all, “Roman kissed her and got really mad when she rejected him. She felt like she needed to apologize to him by running to his house 2 days later. That’s the earliest I think their relationship started”. You felt sick. The article made it a point to constantly bring up your age difference about you being a broke out of college student, ‘just freshly 22’, as the article stated, and Roman being 36. The article was a complete smear campaign against Roman, essentially painting him off to be some kind of predator. You had no idea how anyone could’ve known this. Who the fuck could’ve gone to the press about this? There was only one person. Jess. You went into panic, standing up and pacing as Roman was still reading what was happening. “This is bad. We need to issue a public statement.” Gerri tried to find the best way to figure out how to stir this into a direction that could’ve been better. This only made the sexual assault scandals worse. Waystar made it a point to denounce the actions and compared it to something of the past, to only see that maybe the CEO’s son is also taking advantage of his power. “Where do you guys wanna go with this?” She asked. You had no idea. Roman just was going to listen to whatever advice the PR team had for the two of you.  “I’ll just send in Hugo and Carolina.” She mumbled before texting them to come in. They rushed in and sat on the couch that was in Roman’s office. This was probably the most anyone has ever even gone into his office.

Hugo sat you both down, your leg bouncing up and down nervously as Roman was oddly calm about it. He was only nervous about one thing, and it was his father. He knew Logan would be pissed about the article. But they didn’t have the heart to tell him yet. Not for a bit anyway.

“Okay, well I’m going to be completely honest with the two of you, this is bad. Especially now. This is the worst case scenario right now admit the scandal.” Carolina started as she scrolled past her notes. Hugo had already made a call to every major interviewer who didn’t belong to ATN. It would only raise suspicion if you, a member of the company, spoke to the company's news network. “Janice Reeds is coming in half an hour. We need to prep now.” Hugo announced.

“Wait- wait, what’s the move though? Gerri-“ You looked at her for help, but she shrugged. “Sorry- we only can make this public.” Hugo responded. “No, that’s smart. It’s the only option we have. I mean- these pictures date back pretty far.” Gerri shrugged. It was honestly the only thing you both could do. Roman’s hand covered his mouth, deep in thought as he stared at everyone. “So, you’re gonna have to talk to her and just make up some story about how you both got together. Just make this as fairy tale as you can.” Carolina chimed in. You glanced over at Roman, concerned about your life now being turned upside down. You never expected people to ever know who you were. Now everyone knows your name, age, where you work, and the person you’ve been practically seeing for months now. Worst of all, they know it was your boss. “How did it start?” Hugo asked. “Exactly like the article, except cut out all the rapey part.” Roman finally spoke up. He rubbed his forehead, looking at you apologetically, his eyes growing softer whenever he looked your way.

“Okay- well, that’s not good enough. We need to make this like it was her decision.” Carolina cut it off. Roman felt a sinking feeling of guilt of this ending up biting you so harshly. You nodded, trying to think of how you could make this sound good enough.

“Well- we could add some details to the account. Whoever it is, they know. They’ll know some details. Who have you both told?” Gerri asked you both.

You looked at Roman, wondering who he told. You knew he told Gerri, but it made you wonder who else he might’ve told. He had too big of a mouth.

“Oh, fuck off.” Roman responded to your fearful gaze. “I only told Gerri.”

“Are you sure though?” You tried to remind him.  You needed him to remember.

“I don’t have fucking memory loss.” His tone grew even more annoyed with your responses. You sighed in relief.

“I told Jess, but that’s only because she caught us.” You defended yourself.

“You both have not been very discreet about it. Trust us.” Carolina annoyed having to deal with one more scandal along with the shit storm of the Cruises scandal. This scandal only put more gas onto the fire than it was already. They tried to cover it as a few bad people in the past, but now it was the CEO’s son taking advantage of his power.

Not only that, but the age gap made it weirder for people on the outside. People tweeted things about it being predatory and borderline pedophilic, bringing Roman’s past relationships into it. One of the tweets read ‘reminder of how fucking creepy this is: he just entered high school when she was born’, while putting up young photos of Roman next to a picture of an ultrasound. Another one made it seem like he picked you out of a daycare center. Sure, they were funny, but not when thrown at your expense.

“How long have you all known?” You nearly yelled.

“I knew back in Dundee.” Hugo, softer with his tone, worried to offend you.

“It took you that long? I’ve known since Argestest.” Carolina shrugged. You pressed your head into your hands, completely stressed out. “You both were practically dry fucking the entire time.”

“Okay- fuck. So, what the fuck do we say?” You asked them, begging them to switch the topic.

“So, how did it actually start?” Gerri helped you out. “Okay, well after the dinner at the Pierce’s, we were hanging out and Roman kissed me. I reciprocated feelings and then I told him it was a bad idea. So, we weren’t on speaking terms… And then I went out, got drunk then went to Roman’s place at night and kissed him.” You tried to recall without getting too in-depth with everything, just trying to give enough to give them a story.

“Which I rejected, by the way.” Roman tried to chime in. “I put her to bed and got her some whatever she would eat.” He tried to save his reputation as it was being dragged through the mud on social media and all over the traditional media. But he was only preaching to people who didn’t even believe in what the media was saying.

“Yeah- he got me food and nut milk… so we then talked about it and decided to keep it a secret.” You added. Hugo got an idea out of it.

“Okay, so we can keep the small details of that. Add that story about Roman buying your food and whatever the fuck. People will eat that up. Just let’s say you made the move instead. And it started from there. You were there for him and you told him how you felt and then it started. There. Right?” Hugo looked at Carolina for advice. She nodded, trying to think harder if there could be cracks. “Okay- this could work. That could work…” She mumbled.

“She said she’s a block away. Okay, so just stick with the story. Uh- just bring up stupid memories you both have. I don’t know. Make it sound magical or something.” Hugo quickly said, trying to get ready for her appearance to come.

“It’s gonna be okay…” Gerri tried to reassure you before leaving you and Roman alone. Carolina had tagged along with Hugo.

“Are you doing alright?” You asked Roman. You knew this must’ve been just as hard for him as it was for you. He just quietly nodded, biting his bottom lip. “Do you think this is weird?” He wondered. It made him question himself. He was already known by so many people as a weirdo sex freak, but this might’ve proved it to people. “Huh?” Your eyebrows scrunched up, turning your body towards him.

He shrugged, letting out a breath. “Just- this. Whatever the fuck you wanna call this. Do you think it’s weird? Like am I some sex freak pervert?” He was genuinely questioning himself. You shook your head, grabbing his hand in yours. “No- It’s not. I’m literally an adult. They can’t say anything. It’s not like I’m freshly 18.” You tried to reason. Despite the rough patch you both went through; you were still very much in love. You just thought there was a lot of stuff to work on before getting back.

“You did say that last night. That this… was ‘not normal’.” He quoted you. You sighed, pinching your nose bridge. “Fuck- Roman… It isn’t, but it’s not weird. Plus you said fucking worse that night. Reminder.” You tried to defend yourself from Roman. “It’s out there already. Weird or not, this is going public. We have to put our shit aside to make this okay. Okay?” You asked him. “Okay- yeah- sure- fucking whatever…” He mumbled. It wasn’t only you who brought it up. Kendall did too. Along with Shiv. The only one who didn’t make fun of him for it was Connor. But Connor was paying for his clearly young girlfriend to give him a slight bit of attention. He stood up, pacing around. “Be honest. Is it fucking weird? Everyone thinks so. Do you?” He was stressed. He knew this was gonna go one or two ways. Either okay with people will going on his case about the weirdness of this relationship or either terrible and Logan was going to blame him.

“No- I really don’t think so. Listen- you’re a fucking asshole dipshit pervert. But- you don’t like underaged women. You like women of an appropriate age. You may be awful, but you are genuinely the nicest man I’ve ever been with. Ever.” You followed him, looking at him, hoping you convinced him to get out of his own head a little bit. “And despite being so incredibly pissed and annoyed with you, I still love you. Especially after defending me to Ken. I know it wasn’t easy.”

You reminded yourself how kind Roman was. Most people looked over his kindness with all the terribleness he’s done. But you knew he never had bad intentions.

You planted a kiss over his lips and pulled him into a hug. He rested his head on your shoulder, letting his guard down. But you heard a knock, seeing Hugo, Carolina, and a tall brunette woman in her 40s at the very least. “Oh hi, bad time?” She cracked a joke about interrupting an intimate moment with you and Roman. You shook your head no, pulling away from Roman. “No- no. It’s fine.” You tried to ease the awkwardness.

“Good.” She grinned before taking a seat on one of Roman’s chairs.

“Roman. Come on.” Gerri instructed him. “He’s not joining?” You asked, anxiousness kicking in. You did not want to be alone. You were hoping Roman would be there, but it made sense. It would seem like there was pressure. Gerri shook her head no. Roman kissed his hand, blowing you a kiss before leaving, once again hoping to see you smile. You did. You waved bye before they left. You sat down across from the interviewer, hands in your lap and legs crossed in hopes they wouldn’t shake. Anything could be used against you.

“Wow, you guys are very… in love.” She made a comment before pulling out her tape recorder to document every word you said with a notepad to track everything you did that wouldn’t be heard.

“Yeah...” You laughed, trying to keep up the façade. “He’s really great.” She had already hit record. She set the recorder on the table as she had pulled a pen out. “Have you ever done one of these?” She wondered. You shook your no, her writing down that you essentially said no. “Well, it’s easy. I’ll just ask you a few questions and that’s all.” She smiled. It seemed exaggerated. She didn’t care. “I’m pretty sure you read magazine interviews of… oh what was that boy band named… Oh, One direction!” She tried to remind you of your age.

“No, I didn’t. Just other kinds though.” You tried to deviate from your age being a main talking point. “Oh, magazines are probably out of your age range anyways. All about the digital, huh?” She fake laughed.  “I just never read up on interviews honestly. Digital or paper…” You responded. She nodded, hoping to be able to get you to confess something juicy for her article. “Well, It’s easy. I’m just gonna ask you a few things. Uh- should we start?” She smiled. You nodded. “When did you first get hired?” “I think about 5 months ago. My best friend works for Kendall, and she said there was a position open for me.” You simply said.

“And what were your opinions of Roman during that? I mean was there anything? Did he make any suggestive comments or?” She tried to insinuate.

“No, he never really did any of that.” You lied. He constantly did. He had always made flirtatious comments your way, but you always took it as a joke since he did with everyone.

“Okay and how was he as a boss before you got together?” She questioned you.

“I mean at first it was just like any assistant position. But as we got to be around more, we became really good friends. We hung out regularly, we talked a lot. We laughed. We just naturally felt very comfortable with each other.” It was true. Once he started being awful, you both had such a strong dynamic. It was like talking to someone you’ve known for years. You both understood the other so well and just bounced off of each other’s personalities so well.

“When did you graduate college? Why an assistant position?”

“I graduated in the Spring. Uh- I just need to make an entry, don’t I? It’s kind of something opened and I knew there was room to move up.” “Did you think you’d get there faster because of Roman’s status?” She was trying to paint not only Roman, but you in a bad light of you being a gold digger using a rich older man for a higher position. “Well- no. I work really hard and I’ve proven to everyone in the company that all my hard work paid off.” You were slightly offended, but this was exactly what you were afraid would happen once people found out about your relationship with Roman.

“That’s fine. So, how did you two even become a thing? I mean we heard, but is it true?”

“No, it’s kind of fabricated. Roman never made a move on me. We just got done having dinner with the Pierce family and we all had been outside, I pulled Roman off and we just wondered a bit. I actually had a bit of a crush on him at that point. So, when we just sat out there and talked it made me really realize how much I genuinely did like him though. I mean if you got to know him, you’d know how genuine and sweet he truly is. I mean seriously. An absolute sweetheart. About a week after we went to his apartment, he specifically went out to get me vegan snacks and milk because he didn’t have any. But anyways, I just realized I had a major crush on him. So when we went back inside I told him.” You smiled, even though it was fabricated, it made you remember why you loved Roman so much. Everyone saw his flaws as a major point of him. But he had so much more than that.

“I mean, it wasn’t like he didn’t have some kind of feelings for me too. But god if you could only see the way he looked at me.” You tried to emphasize it. But some parts of it felt real. Anytime Roman looked at you, it melted you from the inside. He had this kind of admiration in his eyes every time he looked at you. You never could tell what it was he was thinking. Whether if it was love, lust or some kind of weirdo thought that popped into his head. All that you knew was just by looking at him, you were adored. Everything you did and said was met with adoration.

“What kind of look?” She teased. “It was like he was already in love with me. I mean stuff out of movies y’know. So, I just made a move. I just told him I had some kind of feelings for him. And he rejected it at first, but we just both admitted to it.” You continued to feed into this snowball of lies.

“Did the age difference ever occur to the both of you?” She asked.

“No, not really. It just started becoming a thing til people found out. But I never considered it to be a factor. I mean we’re both adults. If I’m smart enough to own a gun or drink or to even, make major life decisions for myself what’s the issue?” You tried to rebuttal her concerns. “Plus, I didn’t just turn 18.” You reminded. “I’m an adult. Not a teenager.”

“But your birthday just passed, correct?” She asked. You nodded, knowing this would be another point to her. “Yeah- but again. I’m not a teenager.”

“Well, what about the source? They said Roman had constantly made jokes at your expense to force some kind of relationship. Who do you think might’ve said that?” She questioned.

You paused to really think about it. There was no one knew really knew how you and Roman first even got together. You couldn’t wrap your head around it. “I honestly have no idea. I don’t know if they’re mad at the company. Or me. Or Roman. But everything they said was completely fabricated. I mean- we really needed the privacy and for someone to use it against us was awful.” You wished this would just end.

“Well how long until you got hired did you and Roman get into a relationship?”

“Maybe 2 months in. I don’t keep track of that sort of stuff. We just kind of did what feels right.” You shrugged. Your eyes darted to see if anyone was there, but not a single person you knew or were comfortable with was there. Just other staff gawking at you to know some kind of drama. It was sickening. You had no support system with you.

“Well, was the family’s knowledge? Or the companies?”

“Well, we didn’t know where it would lead to, but we did tell Gerri, the company's lawyer immediately. But yeah- it’s been really great until now. The whole article about us really shook us a bit. We hadn’t told any family. Only my best friend and Gerri. It’s still a very fresh relationship.” You reminded her. You and Roman hadn’t been with one another for that long for this all to be broadcast. It was something you both wanted to wait out and see. But now it was under a telescope to evaluate.

“How do you think your family would react to the news of you dating a man 14 years older than you?” You froze. You didn’t expect them to ever be brought up. You couldn’t tell her. That was too much of a personal matter for you. You only had to lie.

“I mean- I don’t think they’d mind. If they saw how happy I was, that’s all that matters. Right? Wouldn’t your parents feel the same?” You questioned her instead.

“Well, I just have two more questions before we leave. You were a college student before this, right? At Fordham?” You nodded. “You just left college. That must’ve been some debt huh? Did money ever become an issue? Did the job help that? Did Roman ever increase your pay after you both started your relationship?” She wondered. “Well, I was doing okay at first. I paid off most of my loans. But that’s why I asked Jess for a job. Sorry, Kendall’s assistant, and luckily there was an opening not long after graduating. But no, I never got a raise.”

“And this might be a bit off-topic, but you, as a young and brilliant woman,” She boosted your ego before dropping the question to you. “What do you think of the scandal going around? With the sexual assault and workers being thrown off shit.” She asked you, watching your face intensely to see if she could twist the narrative.

“I think whoever used my story with Roman to feed into the scandal doesn’t actually care about the women or workers. As a woman who has gone through such harsh things like that, it is disgusting to see them use our pain for their own gain. Waystar is doing everything they can to right the wrongs they have done. It had been a very disgusting group of men who unfortunately worked with the family and used it to their own power. But no one currently, of our knowledge, is continuing the behavior.”

“Wow, okay… A lot of powerful words there.” She was astonished that you’d ever bring up your own sexual assault into the mix.

“Well- again as a woman and a past victim of other men, it is really hurtful to see what people are doing to spin this on people who had nothing to do with it. Like me and Roman. If anything, we should be focusing on the men who did it. And that’s what Waystar is doing. We are staying nights to find evidence of our other staff doing this.” “We’re all done. But thank you so much for your insight, dear.” She said in a cheerful tone. It all felt so disgusting and fake. You needed to leave. You thanked her before rushing out. “I think I have all I need.”

She gathered her things before shaking your hand and finally leaving the room. You finally were able to get a breath of fresh air. That was excruciating. Hugo came in with Roman following behind. “That was fucking awful…” You revealed. “Let’s not jump to conclusions yet. Let’s wait and then jump into that.” Hugo tried to reason. He had faith that you wouldn’t ruin it. No one at Waystar was allowed mistakes. Unless they wanted to lose a position here.

“She asked about the Cruises.” You dropped. Hugo’s faith disappeared. He didn’t know how this would end for them if you didn’t say the right things.

“It’s okay. She’s a fucking feminist.” Roman tried to stand up for you. He thought it’d be enough. “Fuckin’ she watches the notebook and shit.” He thought that was all that was required to be called a feminist.

“Rome-…” You mumbled, covering your face with your hands once again. “Listen, once the article drops that’s when we should tell Logan.” Hugo finally dropped the bomb. You nodded, and Roman grew silent. He was nervous. He didn’t want to ruin the relationship with his father that he worked so hard to build over him and you not being careful enough. “It’s going to be alright. Just… we have to play the waiting game.” Hugo reminded the two of you. The article would drop any minute now. Possibly in an hour or two. You both just needed to wait and see. It seemed like days waiting for the article. You had laid down on the couch, your head resting on a throw pillow, your legs bent to not go over Roman. It finally dropped.

‘Interview with y/n y/l/n: Asking about their relationship, her home life, and the Cruises Scandal.’

“What a catchline?” You sarcastically said. You didn’t bother to read it, but everyone did. The intro started as another smear campaign. ‘Roman Roy, potential CEO of the Waystar company and son of the current CEO, amidst the cruises scandal was caught several times with an employee who was 14 years his senior. The recent graduate, Y/n Y/L/N, had been an assistant for 5 months and had agreed to speak to us.’ The interview read as me being nervous at first, but then dived into it could’ve been other factors. Nonetheless, the interview was good. It made Roman look better than before. “This is good. This is perfect. So, who wants to tell him you two are now under the lens?” Hugo congratulated before dropping the news.

“I can do it.” Gerri said. She was acting CEO; it would be better. It would prove to Logan that she was effective at her job. “I need one both to come with me though.” You huffed, knowing this wouldn’t be that great. You reluctantly got up and followed Gerri. “Good luck you two.” Hugo tried to ease the awkwardness. Gerri knocked on Logan's door before heading inside. “Uh Logan, we have a slight issue.” Gerri eased him in, this was the only way she knew how to do it. “Now, it’s been settled. We had it all cleared, but it’s still a slight issue.” “What the fuck is it now? Who fucked up now? Was it Frank? Or fucking Karl this time?” Logan had been stressed out, trying to find a way to keep his investors kept and trying to find a way to save the company. It was like watching the greatest empire in the world completely break down in modern times. It was humiliating.

“Well- I think it’s a good thing to consider that it’s handled now. And there is more positivity than before. Even with the Cruises case.” Gerri tried to ease Logan’s nerves. Your response to the Cruises struck a few women. Painting yourself publicly as a past victim was hitting strong with women. But men used it as a way to paint you even more evil and gross, a victim who is only with an older man because she was fucked up. But women resonated with you, seeing maybe Kendall wasn’t so genuine. Maybe he had been playing them all along like you said.

“What the fuck is it? Go on.” Logan snapped. “The news broke out against y/n and Roman. Tons of photos came out.” Gerri finally put the information out. Logan was confused about why it would affect the company. He had been with multiple assistants. It never seemed to be an issue. He was currently even cheating on Marcia with one of them. “A source said Roman pushed himself on her.”

“It was Kendall, wasn’t it?” Logan theorized. You thought about it for a second before it finally hit you. Jess wouldn’t possibly betray you like this. But Kendall would definitely betray Roman.  

“Holy fuck! It was Kendall! Holy fucking shit. It was fucking Kendall!” You shouted. Roman’s eyebrows furrowed your way, wondering how you would ever come to that conclusion. “He’s fucking mad at both of us from last night so he called in. Holy fuck.” You couldn’t stop yourself. Logan's annoyance with you grew, wishing you’d stop. “Alright. Enough with that.” Logan ordered. You obliged, holding in your shock. “Gerri, what happened?” He needed more details. Gerri tried to save you from being berated by Logan, but it didn’t work. “All 'cause these two fucking idiots couldn’t keep it in their fucking pants? Fucking Christ! I’m surrounded by fucking perverts!” He slammed his hands on the table.

“Dad… Come on, you can’t group us in with those…” Roman tried to defend himself, his voice soft and careful.

“Oh? I can’t? Well, who has an article about their perversion? Hm? Me? Kendall? No. It’s my pervert son.” Logan reminded him. He just nodded, deciding it wasn’t worth trying to argue anymore. “Well despite all that… we had someone come and interview y/n, and the response has been good. They asked her about the cruises and a lot of women have sympathized with her response.” Gerri hoped it would die down Logan’s anger a bit. But Logan felt betrayed that he wasn’t told sooner. “If you’re trying to push me out of my own business, it isn’t going to work. Why wasn’t I told before? Huh? Are you trying to fuck me? Hm?” Logan tried to intimidate, but Gerri had known Logan for too long to let it get to her. “Why was I not fucking told?” He started shouting, proving his own point.

“Logan, this is a good step of action. Just look at the responses.” Gerri handed off her phone. Logan put on his glasses, pulling the phone slightly farther away as he stared at the screen. His finger slid down the screen as he read one tweet one by one.

“What would’ve been better is if these idiots didn’t run off together constantly like fucking morons.” He rebutted. He couldn’t let any one of this be a win. He was glad that some women were siding against Kendall now but disappointed any of this had to even come up. “Kid- you did fine. But next time, when you’re fucking your own boss, don’t make it so easy to spot.” He spoke to you. You just kept your own mouth shut and nodded before walking off.

Roman tried to apologize before being sent off with his father. “I wanna fucking rest. This day has been a nightmare…” You sighed. But one more disaster was about to happen. You and Roman decided to leave together, deciding it would be best to take care of one another. You entered the lobby to see a familiar face. Not just one. But two.

“Y/n…” Your mother said. You hadn’t heard your name out of her mouth in years.

A deep seat of panic set in. It felt as if a tsunami had run over you. Your lungs felt as though it was burning. Your heart was racing at the lack of air entering your lungs and your body shut down. Your eyes automatically welded up with tears as one of them suddenly fell, knocking you out of the trance you were in. They looked older. You never thought you’d see them again. Let alone hear their voice again. Your body went into complete shock.

“Nuh-uh. No. Fuck this. Nope. Security!” You began to scream. You gripped Roman’s arm and began to run but were stopped as you felt a familiar grasp on your arm. It wasn’t rough, but it felt excruciating. It felt like it was being crushed. “Ow!” You nearly cried as you crumbled. “Let go of me!” You shouted. Roman stepped in between the three of you, picking your body up.

“Hey- don’t. Security. Get these two fucking nut jobs out! Fucking shit! Who the fuck is watching this building?” He shouted out for help. He helped you out as your parents tried to reach you. But Roman dragged your panicked struck body out. You clung on, hyperventilating.

Once you had gone into the car, you laid your head on his lap. His hand graced your hair as if to tell you he was there for you. “Who were they?” He finally asked.

“Ang-My mom and dad…” You managed to whisper.

Notes: It took 4 seperate times to write this. This chapter was cursed