Benjamin Baudelaire

[sunshinebenjamin]

⟡ BENJAMIN BAUDELAIRE INTRO ⟡

★ IN CHARACTER ★

FULL NAME: Benjamin Baudelaire

SPECIES: Werewolf

AGE: 30

GENDER IDENTITY: Cis-man

OCCUPATION: Firefighter

PACK: The Bloodmoon Pack

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Pansexual

LENGTH OF TIME IN WESTRAY: His entire life

FACE CLAIM: Oliver Stark

★ BIOGRAPHY ★

TRIGGER WARNING: Dysfunctional family, attack Benjamin was almost born to help. He loved people and loved to fix all of their problems, often losing himself in doing so. It made him feel important, wanted and loved, even when he was much younger.

He noticed his mother seemed happier whenever he made drawings about dad and so he kept doing them until he became a bit too old for it to be sweet anymore. He was a shoulder for her to cry on, always listened when she needed to talk about anything. He missed his dad a lot too, he always spoke of him even if he had no idea what he was like, which was something his older siblings loved to remind him.

It only became obvious to him that they were right when their father came home, but he grew to actually love him. He was devastated when his mother was diagnosed with Cancer. He was only 9 and had to pretend like everything was fine, like he wasn't terrified of losing the person he loved the most in the world. He tried to be strong for his siblings, always had a smile on his face whenever he spent time with his mom.

When she died, he lost both of his parents. His mom to cancer, his father to alcohol. He was always out, drinking his grief away. Benji needed him, but he was lucky enough to have his big brother to raise him instead. He made many good friends in high school and often fell in love with someone new, hoping he could meet that special someone who'd prioritize him, but this person certainly didn't come then. They were all a bit too immature for him. When he graduated, he didn't know what he wanted to do, he just knew he wanted to help people. He first started working for a non-profit organization meant to help homeless people and then decided to become a firefighter.

He felt loved by his team immediately and felt like he found a second family. He met his wife after saving her and her dog from a fire, they got married only a year following their first date. He finally had met someone who actually loved him (or so he thought) and he certainly couldn't let her go. No matter how awful she treated him.

His life felt exciting, he had friends he would keep forever, a wife who he loved more than anyone. He almost wasn't feeling that feeling of emptiness he was born with anymore. That was all until he came back from the restaurant one night with his wife. They decided to walk since it wasn't too cold, but it had been an horrible decision. He was attacked by what he thought was a simple wolf. He tried to be a hero, but was pushed against a tree and only woke up the next morning with scratches on his arm and his wife gone.

She couldn't accept what he was about to become. As a vampire, she always had a weird hatred for werewolves. He was desperate to get her back, but had too much he already had to deal with.

★ FAMILY MEMBERS ★

Carina Baudelaire (mother, deceased)

Joseph ''Roman'' Baudelaire (father, alive)

Samuel Baudelaire (older brother, alive)

?? Baudelaire (older sister, alive)

Olivia Baudelaire (wife, alive)

[baneofw0lves]

( @sunshinebenjamin -- Benji's apartment late, in the evening )

The TV is running, a kid's movie playing. Leo is sprawled all over Benji, only his feet in Abbie's lap, stuck in such a deep sleep that not even his favorite movie can get him out of the trance. At some point, Abbie leaned up against Benji as well. Her heart is aching for him in a way she never expected, fueled by hatred for the supposed love of his life and the hurt she is making him go through. "He looks a lot like his Dad.", Abbie mumbles, slightly frustrated, "Not like me at all, which is not fair. I went through 27 torturous hours of active labor and nine months of throwing up at the mere mention of milk products." Abbie brushes her fingers through Leo's soft, dark curls. His green eyes are closed, his tanned face buried in Benji's shirt.

"Thanks for watching him the other night." She leans forward and picks up her glass of soda -- given she still avoids alcohol like it's the plague, in favor of their father. She drinks a few sips and puts the glass back down, leaning right back into the position she was in prior to leaning forward. "He loves you a lot. I think you may be his favorite uncle, but no promises."

[sunshinebenjamin]

Benjamin gently moved his thumb against Leo's shoulder. He was scared he would wake him up if he stopped what had put him to sleep in the first place. When his sister dropped him at his house so he'd babysit a few days ago, he thought his nephew grew so tall since the last time he's seen him. It hadn't been much more than a few weeks, but they grew fast at that age. He'd missed so many moments, too caught up in the mess that was his marriage.

He was only now realizing just how much she had taken from him. Still, he wasn't ready to blame her from it. He was devastated about her leaving. He'd probably say yes if she decided to take him back. He had left her a few messages already, begging her to come back. She was long gone. She'd probably never be back in town.

''They always do, don't they?'' he chuckled as if he knew what he was talking about. He would've loved kids, but it hadn't been in the cards for him. Not with Olivia being a vampire. She got upset every time he suggested adopting or other methods. He dropped it after a while.

''Of course. I like spending time with him too. We like the same things,'' he said half-joking. He did like movies and games just as much as Leo did. He excelled at playing pretend, always making up the craziest stories.

Maybe his divorce wasn't just all bad. Maybe it had given him this. ''Thank you for this... I hate being alone here. I mean, that's why I've been staying with dad. It's just too big for one person,'' he complained, but he didn't lose the smile he always seemed to keep on his face.

[sammybfree]

The blinking red lights outside the bar really created an atmosphere Sam was used to. He stares off into them, zoning out as the firefighters took care of the drunks squabbling over a bet gone too far (which happened probably every other night), while wiping the same spot on the counter over and over as he gave himself a break from listening to everyone's problems and whining. Maybe he was too grumpy to have this type of job. Maybe its why he never got tips. He didn't smile or remember people's names, he just poured the drinks. Seeing his brother brought up that shame he always felt and pushed away. The last time they had talked Sam had said some nasty things. He had yelled at Benji, who was just trying to bring up valid concerns, and went too far. Like he always did. Maybe he'd gotten so defensive because he hated how he was becoming. He didn't want Ben to have to take on the burden of him like Sam had to for their father. He didn't want to worry his siblings. He didn't want them to be stuck like he was. It seemed like an olive branch between them. Benji wanted to hang out, no apologies necessary, and Sam would take that opportunity greedily. Maybe it was fucked up to forgive someone just because they were related to you, but that was how they were raised. "Yeah," he says, throwing down the rag he had been polishing the single spot with, his reflection now looking back at him. "I can hang. In an hour." It's simple and it's barely more than 6 words, but it says so much to both of them. They wanted time together. They wanted to mend what was broken. They miss and love each other. Sam didn't completely ruin their relationship last time and Benji was making sure he knew that with this simple invite. He'd hate to admit it, but he was excited to spend time with him again. To check up on him and know that his life was going better than Sam's was. He wouldn't admit that he'd been keeping tabs on him anyways, but hearing about Benji's life updates straight from the source would be so much more satisfying. "I'm gonna close up here," he explains, a small, welcoming smile on his face. "We can meet up somewhere? Your place maybe." He'd like being anywhere other than home or another bar. Going to his little brother's seemed like a luxury Sam was scared he'd probably no longer deserved. He hoped throwing it out there would give him the chance to know if he was allowed around or not anymore. If Ben forgave him enough to want him there. He really wanted that forgiveness.

[sunshinebenjamin]

Samuel interrupted his rambling to accept his offer. In this moment, nothing could've made him more happy. He couldn't hide the smile that grew wider and wider on his face. In this moment, he looked more like the boy Sam had raised than the hardened firefighter who faced danger and stood his ground every day.

''Uh...'' his smile faltered for a second. His home used to be something that made him proud. Sure, he'd worry about his wife saying wrong around his siblings, but that was the extent of it.

Now? He had to hide the fact that he was staying at their dad's house because he didn't want to be home alone.

He assumed Samuel heard about his divorce (everyone had) but wouldn't it be strange still? He'd walk into the house and notice half of their belonging were missing. He didn't even have a kitchen table or a washing machine. Which was embarrassing considering the fact that Olivia could easily get anything she wanted. She didn't care about those things. What mattered was making Benjamin's life a living hell. As if he had to pay for what happened to him.

''You know what? Yeah! Let's do it. I'll meet you there,'' he rushed out of the bar, texting his father to let him know he'd sleep home tonight.

He rushed to the station, then back home. He needed to clean, to make sure Samuel couldn't guess just how much pain and anger he went through following his divorce based on the state of his apartment.

He grabbed a couple of beers he only kept around for his brother, knowing his would be left practically untouched. He didn't like to drink. Not after seeing what it had done to their father.

''Come in, come in,'' he told his brother when he finally knocked on his door about an hour later. He handed him one of the beers and led him to the living room.

At least she didn't leave with the couch.

[peaceworn]

he's glad to see benji visibly relax. he figures a call to the chief's office is the easiest way to have a private conversation in the firehouse. while he seems to be an open book for the most part, it's only natural to hide the more troubling and personal things from your coworkers. it's a blessing and a curse to be an avery and spencer's still not sure what side of the coin knowing all of the gossip around town fell on, though he usually leaned toward it being a curse. it meant he usually learned so much about people's interpersonal lives before they were ready to share it with him.

he gets up from his desk and grabs a bottle of water from the mini fridge and places it on his desk in front of benji. ❝ nothing in particular. you seem a little troubled lately... not that it's affecting your performance here, but i'm usually pretty good at reading people's moods. ❞ and moods have generally been quite somber in the last few weeks. the new vampires in town have caused quite the stir. not being able to help much with the tension in the air over that, he's hoping he can at least help the people in his department.

❝ just wondering if there's anything i can do for you. even if it's just lending an ear. but it's okay if i'm overstepping too. i don't want to make you uncomfortable. ❞ he then starts sipping on the lukewarm cup of decaf on his desk to stop babbling about and let benjamin speak. he's not super privy to his home life, but he knows enough to worry about him. his upbringing had to be rough. spencer lost his family at a young age, but benji's had been torn apart when he was much younger. it's unfathomable.

[sunshinebenjamin]

''Thank you,'' he said with an easy smile, reaching for the water bottle. He twisted the cap off and took a few quick sips, buying himself a moment to think.

''Oh, well it's reassuring to hear it's not affecting my performance. I'd hate to be that guy, the one who can't separate his personal life from his professional one.'' He wasn't a fan of the fact that it showed still.

''I'm sorry it showed at all. I usually try to keep things... professional...'' he wanted to pretend like everything was great, but he felt like it would be even worse this way.

''You probably heard about my divorce with Olivia. It was... mutual,'' he said it like he meant it, but they both knew better. Everyone did. He had been crazy about her. Still was, if he was being honest with himself.

[killedlight]

For a moment, Sofie keeps watching the movie in silence. Their relationship is far from being perfect, which she has always been very aware of. "We do tell each other everything. But before that, he chickened out. Real bad, as you can tell." Sofie waves her hand at the lovingly styled apartment, "Where we are from, there are barely any supernatural beings. I know Westray is a hotspot and here live a lot of them, but we grew up around humans only. Learning that there are supernatural beings only by being turned has been quite a shock for him. But he grew into it, pretty much. He's happy now, as far as I can tell. But before we grew this close, I had to find him. Did a road trip through the whole United States before I found traces."

Sofie places her socked feet on the glass table Nathan keeps in front of his couch, "He was always nice to me. We never really argued, just like siblings do." Her words are followed by a shrug. Their family is far from being perfect, but Nathan is a rock she can hold onto in the wavering tide.

"We were both pretty young. But at least we learned from it." Curiosity starts bubbling in her chest, "Do you have siblings? I barely know anything about you. Which my be faulted by Nathan talking about himself so much."

[sunshinebenjamin]

Sofie and Nathan looked almost too perfect to imagine there'd ever been strain between them.

As someone who grew up in this town, it was also strange to imagine a life without knowing the supernatural existed. He grew up human, but it always felt... normal. His ex-wife was a vampire, his father and brother were werewolves. It was just the way things were.

It wasn't so easy to start a new life he didn't want, but he couldn't imagine how it would've been if he didn't even know werewolves were a thing when he was turned.

''Wow, you were really dedicated,'' it shown through his expression that he was genuinely impressed by it.

He hoped his siblings would do the same for him, but he wasn't so sure. ''I guess I envy that,'' he added with a quiet smile. Not in a bitter way, he was happy for her.

''I have a brother and a sister. Both older. Samuel and Abigail,'' he paused, his tone softening. ''They basically raised me,'' he said, thankful for them.

He realized too soon that what he was saying could lead to him having to overshare. His smile widened, and he pushed the conversation along. ''As siblings often do, right? We were pretty close growing up,'' he chuckled lightly, then nodded toward her. ''Anyways, how do you feel about staying here? In this town, I mean.''

[helenleslie]

Where: Apartement Building With: @sunshinebenjamin Outfit: click

They had been in Westray for only a few weeks, yet Helen felt like it had been both a day and a year. Time was moving in such a strange way for her. The streets felt brighter than Nashville had, cleaner somehow, and Alexander had taken to making her go out nearly every night at his side. It was tiring, and she spent much of the day yawning, but still she slipped out on her own when she could, stepping into the Sumer sunlight and letting it rest on her skin like a rare blessing. Her cheeks and nose had burned from it, but she did not care, it was amazing to finally see the light again after such a long time.

Alexander had left three days ago for the second time since they’d moved here. He had given little detail, saying it was about “work” and “friends who could help them.” Helen was not sure if she was more relieved or more afraid when he was gone. Relief because the rooms felt lighter without him, fear because she did not know what to do with the emptiness he left behind. It was different than her time spent in his old apartment. It was terrifying to know she could go out and he won’t be there… but she also could go to few places so she could be close when he came back. It was just another awful contradiction.

This morning had been quiet until it wasn’t. A rattle somewhere down the hall, the distant sound of voices. Helen smoothed down her dress - soft fabric and long sleeves that brushed her wrists, as Alexander liked - and stood near the door, listening. She thought of going back to her book, but the muffled commotion outside tugged at her curiosity. Then came the knock - firm, steady, enough to make her heart leap against her ribs. She hesitated before peeking the door open just enough to see a man standing there. His posture was relaxed, his smile easy, and she wasn’t sure if that should make her relax or worry her.

“Ehm… hello?” She greeted with a question to her tone, the idea of letting someone in ludicrous. “How may I help you?” Helen sled slowly and carefully, her words too heavy in her throat, still feeling strange speaking with someone other than herself and Alexander.

[sunshinebenjamin]

Benjamin wasn't scheduled to work tonight, but he was still called to help on something minor. A leak in an apartment's building in town decided to start right when most firefighters were already preoccupied elsewhere. He was wearing his civil clothes as he tried to identify which apartments were flooded and which were not. He knocked on the last apartment. He had been told he was supposed to grab the keys to the basement from the man who lived there. Instead of a man, a young woman opened the door and for a second he forgot what he was supposed to be asking. She was beautiful, but he had to remind himself that she probably was taken. She probably was the girlfriend, or worse, the wife. And he definitely shouldn't be getting interested in anyone else so soon. His divorce wasn't even official yet. Thankfully for him, the woman didn't seem too alarmed, it was obvious the flood hadn't reach her apartment. ''Uh, I'm assuming nothing is leaking in your apartment? I mean... I'm firefighter Baudelaire, lots of your neighbors noticed water leaking from their sink, or from their roof. We are trying to help as much as we can with the damage. Could I come in for a quick second to make sure everything is alright?'' he showed her his badge so she wouldn't think he was just some random creep who was making up any excuse to walk into her home. He smiled as he waited for her answer.

[nightb0rn]

( @sunshinebenjamin -- The Setting Sun early in the evening )

The barkeeper uncaps his second beer, and Emiliano immediately motions for him to set down a second one in front of Benjamin as well. Unaffiliated werewolves are a tricky subject during a time of war with a vampire clan: every hand, or paw, is needed. And Lino has learned to appreciate the younger man for everything he is. And, in addition to that, kind of understands his marriage dilemma. "You see, getting divorced is not exactly easy. Maybe Simone and I are not the best example, either. I was the one to fuck things up as well. Miscommunication, and that bullshit. I was young, and stupid, and thought things were easier." Lino leans back in his chair and takes another sip of his beer.

Simone and him are not the best example because of their shared history after their divorce -- every time he called, every time he showed up in front of her door, Simone gave in, and the other way around. Truth is, he'd do anything for her and Daphne still, no matter how much they hated him, or pretended to. "You can work through it, sometimes. But I'm not sure if that's possible in your case."

[sunshinebenjamin]

He grabbed the beer as it was handed to him, thanking the barkeeper first and then Lino. He took a sip from his drink even if he usually didn't like drinking much, but sometimes? It helped calm his nerves.

He listened to the other man, hoping he'd have some kind of good advice for him. Lino always knew what to say. He'd be able to help fix this somehow. That's what he thought at least until he decided to actually say something. Which... wasn't exactly helpful or what he was hoping to hear.

His face fell as he heard those words. Olivia had been horrible to him, but the more time went on and the more he excused all of it. ''That's not very nice...''

[peaceworn]

@sunshinebenjamin benjamin & spencer, location: the westray fd

newly appointed to chief, spencer's still trying to feel out his leadership style. in general, he didn't like to poke and prod at people and demand information about life outside of the fire engines that they weren't keen on sharing. simultaneously, he's always tried to convey that he's willing to be a listening ear to people's problems and that far extended beyond his day job. at least this week has been relatively slow for peak wildfire season, since everything else in his life imploded upon itself.

in some ways, he misses being captain. less paperwork and more active time on the field... but luckily westray's on the smaller side and his job isn't nearly as much desk duty as it could be in a larger city. right now, he's both taking a break from the boring responsibilities and checking in on one of his team members before they all try to bunker down for a bit of rest with hopes of the dry spell on the scanners lasting a little longer. ❝ benjamin! thanks for stopping by my office. you're not in any trouble. i just wanted to check in for a few minutes -- if you're willing. you thirsty? i have water, coffee, green tea? ❞

[sunshinebenjamin]

Over the years, Benjamin's firefighter team almost became like a second family to him. He finally felt like he belonged somewhere, like he was wanted. Obviously, he knew it probably wouldn't stay that way if he stopped working there. His co-workers kind of had to spend time with him. It was maybe just a job to them, but to him? It was way more.

He always felt like he could tell most of his co-coworkers more than he could tell his own siblings and father. Obviously, he wasn't telling them everything. They never knew what was going on at home with his wife, unless they paid really close attention to him. But in general? They knew a bit too much. From his favorite color, to his favorite show, to his favorite kind of food. He never really stopped talking. He was a real open book.

He was making dinner in the kitchen with a co-worker when he was called to the chief's office. Obviously the announcement was followed by laughter, with everyone wondering what the member of the team who always respected all the rules could've done.

He was pretty sure the answer to that was nothing, but he still felt a bit stressed as he made his way towards the office. He felt relieved when he pushed the door and was told it wasn't anything of the sort. He sat down, his usual smile forming back quickly enough. ''Maybe some water, thanks. Check in about what?'' he asked innocently, already knowing Spencer probably already heard all about his personal dramas.

[sunshinebenjamin]

The calls involving a drunk and violent person always had been the kind Benjamin wished to avoid ever since he started as a firefighter. He wasn't a fan of that kind of behavior, they rarely listened and always caused problems for his team. Mostly, he was always worried the situation would involve his father.

This time, or any time really, he didn't see Roman. It did happen at the bar where his brother worked. It was almost strange to see him there. Was Benji supposed to know he got a job at that specific bar? He probably mentioned it once or twice. Damn, that made him feel like a bad brother.

He took care of the drunk man, alongside his co-workers. He made sure he wasn't hurting anyone, or himself, and escorted him outside to the medics so they could take a look at him.

He hesitated for a second outside before he pushed the door of the bar once again so he could meet with his brother. Samuel was behind the bar like nothing had just happened. He was probably used to it. Benji couldn't imagine just how used to it he was with his own father, how could he? Samuel always protected him from the actual truth.

''Hey,'' he started, obviously hesitant, ''I'm just finishing my shift, if you want to... hang out? Maybe? I'd just have to get back to the station to like change and- Wait, what am I saying? Obviously you're busy, working and all that, I won't bother you any longer,'' and as soon as he showed up, he started leaving, sure that he was only being a bother on his older brother. @sammybfree

[killedlight]

@sunshinebenjamin -- nathan's apartment

The horror movie reaches it's climax and finally, the lights go out. Darkness clouds them until a blaring noise accompanied by blinking red lights startles Sofie so bad that she lets out a yelp. "Goodness, Nathaniel. You do know these things have a button that allows you to turn the volume down?" Sofie's brother snorts while he reaches for the pager. His sister raises herself from the couch to turn on a few lights, while he analyzes what the message says. "Bad news. You'll have to watch the 80s slasher without me. I am a very important, very needed worker at the Lakeview and will therefore have to leave." Nathan winks at Sofie, who rolls her eyes. "Sure, don't let it get to your head, idiot. This just means you work while we eat your fridge empty."

Standing next to each other, they look insanely alike -- the same dark, slightly curly hair, the same glaring, bright eyes. "Our mother would kill you if she knew you left me alone with a very dangerous werewolf." Now it's Sofie's turn to wink, but at Benjamin, as she drops herself back down on the couch, a new glass of wine in her hands. "Yup, she would. Make sure the very dangerous werewolf cheers up while I'm gone, yeah?" Nathan waves his hand in Benjamin's direction, and then he's gone through the front door.

Sofie brushes a few strands of hair out of her face as the next movie starts playing, something blurry and barely scary. "I think you handle being a werewolf pretty well.", she said, leaning back on the couch, "Nathan just pretended he died, actually. Did he ever tell you that? He just ran away from home and acted like he was dead. He didn't even tell me."

[sunshinebenjamin]

Nathan had been his neighbors for as long as he could remember, but they didn't become actual friends until very recently. They've always been on good terms, they sometimes borrowed a cooking item from each other, but it never developed into an actual friendship due to Benjamin's wife being so controlling. She never said it, but he wasn't allowed to have friends. It was in the way she always complained whenever he wanted to spend time with someone else, making him feel bad for it. Or in the way she always started fights while he was getting a bite with the guys from work. He decided it simply was easier to come up with excuses whenever they wanted to see him outside of work. He never realized she might've been doing it purposefully.

They only bonded the day Nathan heard Benjamin's wife yelling at him on the sidewalk. He asked if the new werewolf was fine once she was gone and the rest was history.

They hung out a few times only the two of them, then sometimes they were joined by Sofie. They always spent an easy time together, the three of them, but never once it had been without Nathan.

This time was no exception as they sat on the couch, watching a scary movie. Benji practically threw his popcorn across the room as the pager beeped loudly. ''Yeah, okay,'' he said sarcastically.

He blushed a little bit when he was called a very dangerous werewolf, but shook his head, knowing she was only joking. Or he hoped so. He knew he wasn't scaring anyone.

''Thank you,'' he wasn't believing her in the slightest, until he heard Nathan's story. Maybe he wasn't so bad. He did reconnect with his father when he heard the news, and made an effort with his siblings. He didn't know if it counted since they were werewolves as well. Or, most of them were at least.

''Really? I thought you guys told each other everything,'' that was something he envied. How close they were. His siblings were close, or used to be at least, but it was more out of survival instinct than anything else. His siblings never were telling him anything. He wasn't telling them much either, way too scared to be a burden on them.

[roman-werewolfy]

Lonely, more often than not Roman ended up in his trailer alone.  Three children and none of them really spoke to him, besides here and there.  Of course, he did see his older two more.  The eldest often gave him rides home when he had one too many.  His youngest though, it had been ages.

So color Roman surprised when he opened the door to see Benjamin standing outside of it.  Every time he looked at his youngest, it was bittersweet.  Out of the three children, Benjamin was the one that looked the most like his late wife, Carina. 

The older Baulderaire didn’t say anything, just motioned for his child to come inside.  He went straight to the small kitchen that contained unwashed dishes piled up and some empty pizza boxes on the counter.  Opening the fridge, there was some questionable takeout but he reached for two bottles of beer and walked over and handed one to Benjamin then went to the living room that still sported a box television with rabbit ears and a worn out couch and recliner.  Plopping down in the recliner, he waited patiently for his youngest to join him.

“What brings you around?”  Although, Roman had some idea, but preferred Benjamin tell him upfront.

[sunshinebenjamin]

As Benjamin pushed Roman's trailer's door further and walked in, he realized it was his first time stepping foot into his father's home. He couldn't help looking around at all the trash and the dirty dishes. Not out of judgment or pity, but out of concern. Even now, at his lowest, he was still looking out for his father. Something he unfortunately hadn't done enough in the past years, but that he wish he would've. It probably was the thing he regretted the most.

He wondered if maybe he did more for his father these past years, if things would now be different for him. As if he was his responsibility, as if his oldest brother didn't try again and again already.

He grabbed the beer that was handed to him, even if he rarely drank. He looked at the cold bottle for a second, realizing just how much of a stranger he probably was to his own father. Instead of resenting him for it, he chose to blame it all on himself. Roman wasn't perfect, but he did try every few weeks. What did Benjamin do? Nothing.

He followed him to the living room, sitting down on the couch. He was convinced he should've been feeling comfortable here, but he didn't. Not fully. Not yet at least. He probably felt more comfortable at Olivia's mom's house... Which was pretty telling.

''I was just... around. I thought I'd visit you. It's been a while, right?'' he asked, forcing a smile on his lips. It didn't last long, he wasn't the best liar. He looked down at the beer in his hands, he guessed his father probably had heard all about his problems already from the people in town. ''I didn't know where to go. Can I sleep here tonight?''

[sunshinebenjamin]

Benjamin couldn't even remember the last time he actually spent some quality time with his father. In the past 6 years or so, they've shared a few phone calls for the holidays, texted a few times for birthdays, but that was it.

His wife, well... ex-wife now, despised his father. Benji knew Olivia didn't like him because he was a werewolf, but he went along whenever she simply pretended she didn't like Roman for all the bad things he's done to himself and his siblings since he was a kid. He defended him at first, but eventually just gave up on it, he chose to keep the peace with his wife instead of fighting for something that mattered a lot to him; family.

That was a recurrent theme with his wife. He was forced to give up the things that he loved and that made him the person he was, only because he was tired of the fighting. He was determined to make her happy, without realizing she would only be happy once she would've destroyed all the good parts of him.

Surprisingly, this wasn't the reason why they broke up. It was only when Benji was turned in a werewolf to protect her that she decided it just was too much for her.

He tried to deal with it himself at first, determined to make it all better without anyone else's help. He spent several days pretending like he was completely fine, like nothing was even different, until he just couldn't take it anymore and decided to knock on a door he never thought he would knock on again; his dad's.

@roman-werewolfy

[fadedstarsfms]

"I so clearly am." Adelaide pouted slightly, still keeping up the charade before she just laughed it off. She listened to what he had to say and nodded. "Hey that's okay, nothing wrong with loving what you do! You just have to make sure you have a good work and personal balance. Don't be a workaholic, no one likes that." But as Theo leaned in closer, Adelaide did the same. She could sense there was some gossip to be had and she was so here for it. "No way!" She both whispered and screamed. "Tell me everything!"

[sunshinebenjamin]

Theo’s brows were still slightly furrowed, trying to make sense of everything that had just happened, but he eventually let it go when he saw Adelaide laughing. Her lightheartedness was enough to ease his own tension. ''I’m going to try my best,'' he promised, knowing how hard it was sometimes to not fall into the trap of becoming a workaholic. It was tempting to bury himself in his job, especially when things got complicated, but deep down he knew that wouldn't bring the kind of fulfillment he really wanted.

''Yes way!'' He chuckled, matching her enthusiasm. The stress that had followed their kiss was hard to forget, but he couldn’t deny that it felt good in the moment. And now, being able to talk about it openly with someone was a relief. ''Well, after we parted ways at the festival, I got attacked, and he helped me out. I guess he was relieved to see me alive. He just… kissed me. Probably the best kiss I’ve had since…'' He paused, hesitating to mention his late wife. That kiss had been different—special because it was from someone who actually cared about him. His face warmed at the thought.

''But things have been awkward between us since, so… it’s nothing,'' he added, his voice quieter, downplaying it even though it clearly wasn’t nothing to him.

[a-small-drop-in-a-big-pond]

Charlie shifted back slightly when Theo questioned if he was leaving. "I...uh what?" Charlie questioned, frowning a little before he glanced back at his suitcase. Charlie let out a sigh as he pushed a hand through his hair slightly. "No, I'm just going out of town for a few days." Charlie said as he looked back at Theo. He ran his eyes over Theo.

Charlie knew things had been tense between them for awhile, neither of them willing to talk about happened. Charlie shifted forward and moved past Theo, and headed down to the bathroom. Charlie grabbed his toiletry bag, before he grabbed everything he needed. Charlie turned and looked back at Theo. Charlie headed back to his room, stopping near Theo. Charlie reached out and wrapped his fingers around Theo's left wrist gently. "Are you alright, Theo?" Charlie asked again, frown still marking his face.

[sunshinebenjamin]

The thoughts raced uncontrollably through Theo’s mind, a whirlwind of panic and insecurity. Out of town for a few days? It seemed like the perfect excuse to distance himself, and Theo couldn't stop the flood of emotions. He instinctively pushed Charlie's hand away, taking a step back as his eyes fixated on the suitcase.

"Look, I know things have been weird between us these past days, but that doesn’t mean you need to leave." His voice wavered, almost pleading, a sound he hated hearing from himself. "I’m really sorry. I swear I’ll change how I act."

He hated how much this reminded him of the past, of his ex-wife constantly threatening to leave anytime he made a mistake—until one day, she actually did. His mind wasn’t thinking clearly, too caught up in the fear of losing someone else important.

"I can move out," Theo offered, his words tumbling out in a rush. "My dad said I could always ask if I needed anything. Is that what you need? Space? 'Cause I can give you space, Charlie."

He was spiraling, and somewhere deep down, he knew it. But the thought of losing Charlie, especially after the kiss, was more than he could handle. Every part of him was bracing for the worst, his chest tight with the fear that, just like before, he’d been too much.

[sunshinebenjamin]

[ Text to Maia ]

PLS tell me you're not busy, i need to talk to someone, its urgent!!!!

[ Text to Maia ]

i think charlie is leaving

@fadedstarsfms

[a-small-drop-in-a-big-pond]

Charlie pushed a hand through his hair as he scanned his bed, at the clothes he had laid out. His chest felt tight, and his skin prickly. He stepped forward and started to pack his clothes into the suitcase, that was also opened on the bed. Getting the phone call from lawyer wasn't something Charlie was expect, he thought he delt with everything. Sure he just left his husband's things behind, and expected the lawyer to deal with it. But Charlie had finished his business in Boston, he thought he could wipe his hands of that place. But now he being brought back to the city that caused so much suffering for him.

Charlie sighed as he finished packing the clothes as he heard the front door close, letting Charlie know that Theo was home. The two hadn't really talked since the demon attack, sure they had dinner with Eden. But things were still awkward between. Charlie listened for a moment, tracking Theo's footsteps before he heard them stop outside his room.

Charlie took a breath before he turned slightly and looked over at Theo. "You're back early." Charlie said softly, forcing a smile of his lips before he looked back to his suitcase, double checking that he had everything. Right, he nearly had everything. Just need his toothbrush, and all that stuff. Charlie turned to head out of his room, when he noticed Theo still standing in his doorway. "You alright, luz solar."

@sunshinetheodore

[sunshinebenjamin]

Theo usually lingered at work long after his shifts ended, chatting with coworkers, showering, and catching up on unfinished tasks. But tonight, he was exhausted, his social battery completely drained. For once, he drove straight home, dropped his keys next to Charlie’s, and headed toward his room. He wasn’t good at avoiding Charlie completely—he didn’t want to make things weird or hurt his feelings—so he tried to stick to his usual routine. Except tonight, he wouldn’t pop in to share the details of his day like he usually would.

"Hi—" Theo’s greeting died on his lips as he stopped in his tracks, seeing Charlie packing a suitcase. His frown deepened, and his eyes locked onto the suitcase. His heart sank instantly, his mind jumping to the worst conclusion. Charlie was leaving. Everything had become too awkward between them, and Charlie couldn’t take it anymore. Or worse, maybe Charlie had realized Theo liked the kiss far more than he should have, and this was his way of creating even more distance.

When Charlie used that familiar nickname, it only fueled Theo’s spiraling thoughts. For a brief moment, he thought Charlie was mocking him, playing off his feelings like a joke.

"You’re leaving me too," Theo blurted out, his voice sounding more raw than he intended. He probably sounded crazy—Charlie’s name was on the lease, they weren’t in a relationship. But Theo couldn’t help it. Everything he had been trying to bury, every emotion from the past few weeks, surged to the surface. He just couldn’t lose Charlie too, not after everything.

[asholestone]

Asher knew it was all about timing, in a way. He had a pretty good idea of when they were likely to toss the old batch, but that was a secret he planned to keep to himself. No need for Theo to know all his tricks. He tossed a few pieces of popcorn into his mouth as Theo settled in to share what he’d been up to over the past couple of weeks. Asher listened attentively, happily munching away, not wanting to interrupt.

His ears perked up when Theo’s tone shifted to something more serious. "Sure, man. What’s up?" he asked, brow furrowing slightly as Theo mentioned the festival. "Yeah, no, I wasn’t hurt, but my Ma—" He trailed off when Theo interrupted, his friend clearly needing to get something off his chest. Asher nodded, grabbing another handful of popcorn, deciding they could circle back to the topic later since Theo seemed to have something more pressing on his mind.

His eyes widened when Theo casually mentioned getting hurt but then waved it off, thanks to his werewolf healing abilities. That made sense, Asher supposed. He chewed thoughtfully on his popcorn as he considered Theo’s question. "I’m not sure I’m the best person to ask about that. I usually only want to kiss my friends—it’s just part of being demisexual." He paused, eating a bit more popcorn. "I’m guessing since you’re asking me, you haven’t talked to Charlie yet?"

[sunshinebenjamin]

Theo's frustration was evident in his voice. "As you know, I was married, got divorced. Since then, I've been... well, kissing random people. I tend to get attached way too easily," he laughed, shaking his head. "But this... this felt different."

He sighed, the confusion and hurt clear on his face. "He kissed me, I kissed him back, and it was great. But since then... he's been practically ignoring me. It’s like he regrets it. And I get why he might, but I don't want our friendship to be ruined. I mean, we live together!'' He exclaimed as he took more popcorn as if it would help.