starbxnny

starbxnny

[xxbxnny20]

: ̗̀➛ DEXTER MASTERLIST

ALL OF MY LOVE (AO3 LINK)

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

⋆ ★₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨

Summary:

Location: Miami, Florida Occupation: Survivor

Florida isn’t California. It’s six hours of heat that sticks to your skin, people who live half their lives buried in sand, and a city where violence feels as common as humidity.

Still—there’s always room to play guitar. Strings hum louder than shouting. It’s a perfect distraction.

Until you have to put it down.

Bunny hates the silence almost as much as she hates the arguments that echo through her house. Living in the suburbs doesn’t make things quieter—it just makes them easier to hide.

Her father’s temper flares without warning. Her mother believes obedience is love and hands Bunny the weight of the household like it’s tradition. An only child learns quickly when no one is coming to help.

Underage drinking. Smoking stolen cigarettes. Music played too late at night. Coping mechanisms disguised as rebellion.

She lives next door to a man who looks like the ideal family neighbor. And somehow, that’s only the beginning.

Because in Miami, serial killers don’t just hunt victims. Sometimes, they notice survivors.

[writingdose]

I am once again begging people to realize that AI checker doesn’t work. it’s never worked. it’s notoriously known to have flagged human-made works as AI and AI-generated works as human-made. and by feeding it people’s works, you are feeding more works to AI, because apparently the machine itself is AI.

the only thing AI checker does is harm genuine artists and people in general too.

[allthingswhumpyandangsty]

if you comment some demanding shit like this on fanfic writers’ works, you don’t deserve the privilege of getting to read fanfiction for free

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER SEVEN: PETALS. . . ★⋆

“Hey.”

The words sounded muffled and static in Bunny’s ears as she stared straight down onto her lap. There was no blood, but a sharp pain had settled into her wrist. Even when she tried to move her fingers, it felt impossible. “Look at me”, the male voice echoed in her ear faintly. It wasn’t until a pair of slender fingers snapping in front of her face that she finally tore out of her trace. She slowly blinked before her eyebrows furrowed slightly. A small closed smirk that must’ve been as charming as the devil’s appeared on the man’s face. “Didn’t think I’d see you again.” The short black curly hair was familiar now, and suddenly the situation felt even more embarrassing. Short dark curls. Green eyes. Different clothes this time—lab coat, pressed shirt, a tie knotted neatly at his throat. He looked official. Polished. The sigh that left the doctor's lips didn’t make Bunny feel anymore at ease. She watched his tanned hands grasp the clip board and run over the words on a paper she wasn’t able to read. Instead of speaking, she chose to nibble on the inside of her cheek. Tasting nothing, but feeling every nerve spark in her body. “Sorry you had to see me with that lady”, the doctor shook his head and smiled again, as if anything was humorous. “It’s not part of my usual routine, I promise.” Bunny just stared at him almost blankly if it wasn’t for the red straining lines in her eyes. His green eyes shined as much as they did with the neon lights in Miami’s dark hours. No more casual shirt and jeans, instead a lab coat with a tie. He looked…nice. Strong and confident. There was a stirring close to envy in Bunny’s gut again. “Name’s Rudy Cooper. You can call me Rudy if you’d like,” he stated with a soft tone, causing Bunny’s dark ocean eyes to gaze back up into his forest green ones. His slender hands reached out carefully and pushed her shoulders back until she leaned against the chair. Not forceful. Just guiding. A satisfied smile appeared on his lips, his freckles somehow more prominent in this lighting. Another fire stirred inside Bunny when his cool hands touched her wrist. “Ow!” Bunny's lips parted without much thought, but even with her protest, Rudy’s hand grasped hers. “Relax.” His thumbs rubbed gentle circles over the back of her hand, barely grazing her wrist. Bunny watched his face etch in concentration, his eyebrows slightly furrowing as he rubbed over the soft skin, voicing a small ‘sorry’, but didn’t let go. “Skateboard accident”, he murmured. “That tracks.” “Good. Nothing serious.” He replied softly and nodded.  “You’re going to be alright, kid.” Bunny stared up at Rudy, her vision still blurry. It was like she could feel every inch of pain every time she breathed. Bunny swallowed. Her mouth felt dryer than ever. She could practically feel Rudy’s gaze on her. His tan skin and sharp features illuminated by the Sun. Even his smile lines were warm and inviting as he leaned in closer. “I promise.” There was a comfortable silence in the sterile room as they stared into each other's eyes. Somehow the pain subsides a bit. A strange comfort when his voice droped almost to a murmur or whisper. “You’re very quiet,” he observed. “Can’t say I was the same when I was your age,” a small amused huff left his nose as he kept smiling. “Does it hurt worse when people are watching?”, he asked, almost abruptly. She frowned slightly. “What?” “The fall,” he clarified smoothly. “Most people don’t like an audience.” He slowly sat down next to her, a slight creek due to his weight. “You live around here?”, he asked casually. She hesitated and he tilted his head slightly. “I’m not asking for your address. Just.. neighborhood.” “Yeah,” she said quietly. “Thought so.” Something about the way he said it made her look up again. “Your school’s nearby,” he continued. “Middle school, right?”

Her stomach dipped. “How did you–” He smiled. Not wide. Just enough. The fluorescent lights hummed overhead. The room smelled sterile. He smelled sterile. “Lucky guess.” Silence stretched between them. More tense and uncomfy. Still, he spoke out again. “You hold yourself like you’re waiting.” Her eyebrows knit together, confused. “Waiting for what?” “For someone to get mad.” The words landed softly. Too softly. And she looked away first. Rudy’s fingers finally released her wrist, though the feeling of his touch seemed to stay behind. The air felt cooler again. He straightened, smoothing invisible wrinkles from his white coat. He stepped toward the door, hand resting on the handle. “The doctor will see you soon, Bunny,” he said and gave her a final nod. He opened the door, then paused. “Try not to skate without wrist guards next time.” Then he was gone. The corners of her mouth slightly turned down and her eyebrows furrowed in slight disappointment. His touch had been cool. It lingered in her mind longer than it should have. A small sigh escaped her lips and she leaned further back into the chair, waiting for the doctor. Finally closing her watery eyes and praying for better days. A few minutes later, a different doctor walked in, glancing at her chart too. “Sorry for the wait.” She blinked. “The other doctor already checked it.” The woman looked up, eyebrows lightly furrowed. “Other doctor?” Something small and sharp unfolded in Bunny’s chest. “There isn’t anyone else assigned to you today.” D.M 

The cast on her wrist didn’t look too bad. Astor tried to quickly shift the mood to a lighter tone by grasping a marker on the car’s floor mat. “Astor, please put your seat belt on.” Dexter spoke softly as he drove with the 10 and 2 hand position, occasionally glancing at his girls. Astor ignored him with a giggle and snapped open the marker, writing her name on the white plaster like a territorial claim. Her eyes shimmered alongside the worry and looked at Bunny. “At least you look cool now.” Children marking children. Interesting. A small raspberry blew from his lips before he decided to speak, watching Bunny’s conflicted state. “She’s not wrong… You look… authentic.” He practically felt her confused stare at his awkward admission. His cheeks puffed at the silence. Wrong. That was the wrong thing. Why was that wrong?

Silence. I officially need to stop talking.He felt like running his hands down his face, but Bunny saved him. “Uh, thanks. It doesn’t hurt so bad anymore”, she spoke softly and tilted her head down to gaze at her wrist. “Doctor says it’ll heal in 6 weeks or more.” A small frown tugged at her lips and Dexter quickly shook his head. Astor had finally leaned back in her seat, legs swinging, and spoke out confidently. “Hey! Halloween is coming up. Maybe you can come with me and Cody?” There was that familiar tilt of curiosity in her voice. Dexter’s eyebrows quickly furrowed and his lips parted as the silence sat in his car. Slowly, a smile crept on his face and he nodded. “I’m sure your mother wouldn’t mind.” Dexter saw Bunny’s house in his field of vision again. He heard the slight anxious tap of her foot against the floor. Dexter put the car into park and stared at her house through his driver window before opening the door, heading over to Bunny’s side. His hands helped guide her despite Bunny’s protest. He watched Bunny until she seemed settled enough to walk. Dexter took a moment to gaze at Astor, his eyes squinting lightly due to the bright Sun. “Stay in here, okay?”. With a small nod, he closed the door and walked beside them. Before he knocked on the door, his head tilted down, his eyes softening more than usual. “You know you’re going to be alright? Right?” Bunny’s eyes gazed down for a long time at her wrist before sucking in her bottom and releasing it. Her eyes blinked and squinted as she tilted her head up to gaze into his eyes. “Yeah, I know.” With that and a curt nod, his hand curled into a fist. One, two, aaaand three should do it. Formal. Polite. Appropriate for a man with a girl that isn’t his daughter. Naturally, Dexter stuffed his hands into his pocket and shined a toothy smile once a man appeared. “Hey!” His eyes took a quick glance down at Bunny before lifting one hand to shake. “Dexter. The one you talked with on the phone. She had a skateboard accident, but she’s good now. Just came to bring her back.” “Right, thanks. You okay, honey?” Her father’s eyebrows furrowed as his hand engulfed her head, messing up her hair playfully. A small smile appeared on her face and nodded, stepping inside. His arm wrapped around her shoulder and held her by his side. Dexter felt something weird stir within his stomach at the sight, forcing himself to gaze away from Bunny. “Right, we’ll get ice packs on it. Nice to meet you Dexter,” Bunny’s father gave him an appreciative nod before stepping back and closing the door. A puff of air escaped Dexter’s lips that he didn’t know he was holding. Slowly, he stepped back and off the porch. The car felt a bit emptier than what he remembered as he started the car. Astor’s words could be compared to background noise. 

…

The apartment was quiet. Dexter’s fingers fiddled with his new toy. The doll head that he usually kept in his freezer. Fitting.Silence in his apartment was only disturbed by the faint voices of people outside on Miami’s beach. Nobody ever really sleeps during Miami’s nights, not when there’s so many clubs and people to meet. His head tilted to the side on his pillow as he continued to gaze up at the doll part. The orange hair and red ties. Almost beautiful, almost human, if it wasn’t for the fact that his friend was the Ice Truck Killer. The doll's head slipped out of his fingers once he let it rest on his nightstand. His attention landed on a backpack. Right.

Dexter hadn’t meant to keep the backpack. He’d meant to return it. Simple. Clean. The kind of thing a normal person would do.Instead, Dexter pushed himself off his bed and found himself on the floor at 11:47 pm. The small creeks stopped once he began inventorying the contents of a thirteen year olds schoolbag like it was a crime scene. A soft rumbling in his throat filled with curiosity invaded the usual silence. Textbooks. Worksheets. Granola bar, partially consumed. Cigarette box.Slowly, with the tips of his fingers, he grasped a cigarette box. He held it up to the light. Fitting the profile…

He stood up and pushed his thumb to open the box. A single cigarette flipped upside down, the lucky one, the one you save in the half empty box. And she knows the culture… touché, Bunny. Touché.He didn’t know why that pleased him.

Carefully he took out a smoked cigarette. The cigarette was already down to a small nub, barely enough room for Dexter’s index and thumb to pinch. His eyes narrowed, already imagining her lips wrapped around the orange part before dropping it into a plastic bag. Dexter moved fast to clean up her backpack before climbing back into bed. He repacked everything. Exact angles. Exact placement. Back in bed, Dexter stared at the ceiling. I should stay away from her.

He didn’t move. ₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[theunfortunate-author]

my daily affirmation as an author

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER SIX: MISS WORLD. . . ★⋆

“Is that a skateboard?”Astor flashed a gleeful smile, teeth pearly white. She leaned against Bunny’s side. The quieter child kept her fingers clutched around her wooden board. It felt more awkward than ever and Bunny couldn’t help, but keep her eyes on those red strands of hair while the griptape scratched her calloused fingertips. The red-haired man she’d scolded—who also happened to be her future best friend’s stepdad. Her stomach twisted at the revelation. Still, she forced her head to turn towards Astor and spoke out. “Yeah, but I mostly just ride around for fun.” Even at the simple response, Astor nodded with enthusiasm and spoke out again. “That’s so cool. Will you teach me?” Bunny decided to use her free hand to tap her jaw, as if she was really contemplating before speaking out again with a small chuckle. “Of course.” The girls felt the car slow down to a stop. Her dark blue eyes gazing over Astor’s house. It was nice. It was suburban. Nowadays, they make all the houses look the same, except they have a bigger front yard. Bunny snapped out of thought whenever the door opened. Her eyes blinked rapidly, adjusting to the bright Sun over Florida. A small awkward smile appeared on Bunny’s face, reflecting off of Dexter’s own facial expression. She slowly got out of the car, skateboard in hand, and a backpack slung over her shoulders. Her shoe rubbed against the smooth concrete pavement of the sidewalk, watching how easily Astor and Dexter talk. Her lips pursed before she forced herself to follow behind them. Did he tell on me? No, I don't think so…

Bunny shook her head, trying to make the thought disappear. A box of cigarettes was at the bottom of her bag. Subconsciously, teeth sunk into her bottom lip, chewing nervously as she took in the inside of the house. There’s so many family portraits. Wow. “You guys hungry?” Dexter’s voice filled the house quite easily. Bunny’s eyes darted to Astor before flickering up to those hazel ones. “Uh, no, I’m okay…”, she spoke out softly, watching Dexter’s expression as she kept a small closed lip smile. “I used to skateboard a little,” he said. “Balance is everything.” A small pucker of his lips as he awkwardly gestured towards her skateboard. It caused Bunny to gaze over her beaten and chipped board. “Oh, really?” “Yeah, really. We can walk to the skatepark if you want. It’s pretty close by.” Astor’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion as she slowly shifted her gaze from her step father to her friend. Her friend met her own gaze before nodding slowly. A small closed lip smile appeared on her lips. “Yeah, okay. Should I leave my bag here? Or…”, Bunny’s voice trailed off quietly, but Dexter quickly nodded his head and waved his hand. The school bag slung off her shoulder and rested against the wall near the front door. The ginger was quick to open the door for them. A tint of red already seemed to settle on the little girl’s cheeks as they walked along the sidewalk. Cars swooshed by without a care in the world. Despite the slight buzz ringing in Bunny’s ear, she thought today was beautiful. “You wear wrist guards when you skate, right?” Huh?

Bunny snapped out of her daze and tilted her head up to gaze at Dexter for a moment. “No, I’m good”, she spoke out softly. Her eyes flickered to her friend when she noticed Astor perk up. “Dex, can you ride it?” Both girls turned to gaze up at Dexter, their eyes squinted because of the bright sun. Yet a smile was still painted on their faces. His pink lips twitched hesitantly before he managed to speak out, “Well-” The board landed on the asphalt once Bunny threw her board. She gestured with her arm to follow. “Come on”, she spoke out, interrupting him and making sure the road was clear. Dexter sucked in a deep breath, keeping his hands by his side until he approached the board. Dexter forced a smile on his face, hoping he didn’t appear as nervous as he felt when pressing his right foot on the griptape. Bunny’s eyebrows immediately furrowed. “You push mongo?” she asked, concern slipping into her voice. His mouth parted open and a forced chuckle escaped his lips. A tongue darted out to lick his pink lips quickly. Suddenly, the Sun felt so much hotter on his skin. The sweat already seeped through his shirt to create an embarrassing stain. His hazel eyes gazed down at his foot that planted itself on the end of the board. “Yeah, I mean – comes naturally”, he spoke out and nodded. Dexter’s hand raised to wipe his nose, a small sniffle following after. “How do you do it?”

The words left his lips slowly. He shrugged his shoulders as if trying to appear casual. Slowly, Bunny glanced at her used up board and spoke out calmly. “Well, I push goofy. Riding regular feels off to me, you know?” Dexter nodded, almost too quickly and cleared his throat. “Yeah.” He sucked in a deep breath and spoke out again. “It’s been a while since I skated, maybe you should just ride…” This time it was Dexter who’s voice trailed off, watching Astor and Bunny’s excitement dial down. Instead of trying to convince him like Astor was, Bunny just nodded and picked up her skateboard. “It’s okay, Dex.” …

D.M

Hell… He could still feel his heart pounding on his chest after that God awful moment. A sigh escaped his lips once they finally entered the park. His hazel eyes flickered around the skatepark. The skate park buzzed with sound—wheels scraping concrete, distant laughter, the sharp crack of boards hitting the ground.

Graffiti? Check. Baggy clothes? Check. Sunburn? Check. 

Everything exactly where it shouldn’t be.Is this what the cool kids do now?His hand lifted to create some shade for his eyes. Dexter’s attention shifted to Astor once she hovered close to Bunny, eyes wide. “Okay. I’m probably going to fall.” “That’s kind of the point,” Bunny said softly, setting her board down. “Just… don’t lock your knees.”

Dexter stood a few feet away, arms crossed, scanning the park and them. “Helmet?” he asked casually.

Astor groaned. “Dex.”

“I’m serious,” he said. “You only get one brain.”Bunny gave a small, awkward nod. “We’ll be careful, don't worry.”

He watched Astor’s awkward stance on the skateboard. Bunny’s hands rested on Astor’s waist while Astor’s hands tightly gripped her shoulders.

Despite all the noise of lousy teenagers, the sound of their giggles were the only thing filling up his ears. The corners of Dexter’s mouth turned up genuinely.

Astor only rode for a couple seconds before she hopped off, giving the reins to Bunny, whom of which gave an appreciative nod. He watched her foot press on the top of the board, using her left foot to push.

Noted.Not that Dexter had any plans on actually getting on a skateboard again. But you never know. Astor smiled as she watched Bunny easily glide around compared to her. Her head tilted up to gaze at Dexter, squinting her eyes against the Sun. “You think one day I’ll ride like that?”, she spoke softly. “Of course”, he replied instantly. Both of them turned their attention back to just watching Bunny flow with traffic until she started to come around to them. “Do a trick!”, Astor exclaimed, switching her attention to Dexter and Bunny’s face. His lips parted, a strange twist in his stomach. He swallowed harshly, ready to speak out, but Bunny was already pushing away. “Okay– yeah, sure.” He nodded with a closed lip smile and stuffed his hands into his shorts. All he could see was confident movement. The Sun reflected in her dark blue eyes, making them more noticeable against her skin and dark hair. He sucked in a sharp breath as she hopped, the board sliding on the rail, and hit the pavement. Bunny landed cleanly, a smile breaking across her face. Relief washed through him. Astor acted like the happiest kid in the world. “Nice job-” The words left Dexter’s lips as he stared at Bunny before he saw something in the corner of his eye. Instinctively, he stepped forward, his hand brushed her arm—not hard, not forceful—but enough to throw off her balance. The board slipped forward as Bunny instinctively tried to catch herself. She hit the ground awkwardly, breath knocked out of her lungs.

Crack.

Astor gasped. “Oh my god—Bunny!”

Dexter ignored the scooter kid, quickly crouching down to Bunny’s level. “I’m—” Bunny sucked in a sharp breath, cradling her wrist. “I’m okay. I think.” His eyebrows furrowed, face tight with concern as he spoke out, “Don’t move it. Don’t move it yet.” Among the small crowd, Bunny’s voice was calm. Too calm. He could see the red strains in her eye as she darted her attention around. 

“We’re going to get that checked,” he added. “Just in case.” His hands slowly uncovered her wrist and moved his arms to wrap around her waist, easily lifting her up. Bunny nodded, dazed, her wrist throbbing—not unbearable, but wrong enough to make her stomach sink. B.Y

Don’t Cry. Don’t Cry. Stop. Please. Blue eyes stared straight down at the pavement. Even through the buzzing—like a refrigerator humming—she felt the wetness in her eyes. Her vision slightly blurry as she tried to blink it away. Everything felt hot and embarrassing. She could feel his firm arms around her, every single bounce of his step echoed within her.

I don't even have my board–my guitar.

“Bunny?” The name fell off Dexter’s lips so easily it jolted her awake. “Huh?” Her body was slowly slid down until her feet touched the hospital’s white floors. Bunny’s head slowly turned to see the receptionist. She could barely hear the receptionist and Dexter talking. Astor was buzzing in her ear again, but all she could feel was a throbbing pain. Too scared to look down, too scared to try and talk. All she felt was a hand guiding her away from everyone.

₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER FIVE: CREEP. . . ★⋆

D.M The red head leaned back in his driver’s seat, gazing into his rearview mirror before flicking up to watch the black Tahoe pass by. “Dexter?” Dexter quickly cleared his throat and quickly turned his head towards Astor. A common man’s smile adorning his face, he spoke out, “Uh, yeah, Astor?” Astor chuckled softly before speaking out again, gazing at her step father with a cute smile and bright eyes. “I asked if you’re staying over today?” Dexter pretended to think, tilting his head side to side before nodding confidently. “Sure. If your mom lets me.” He watched the young girl nodded eagerly before turning to buckle herself in. Once he placed both his hands with the proper position on the steering wheel, he began to exit out the school parking lot. “Hey, Astor, who’s your new friend? You know, the girl with the, uh, dark hair, next to you at the gate?” Dexter spoke while his eyes stayed on the road, barely flicking to catch Astor’s expression. One of Astor’s eyebrows raised slightly before she spoke casually with a shrug. “Oh. That’s just the new girl.” That’s it? After 7 hours of school? Come on, Astor… A small huff escaped Dexter’s lip as he sucked lightly on his bottom lip. “Hey, why don't you bring her over sometime?”, he spoke out, trying to be casual with a shrug of his own. He glanced over and gave her an encouraging smile. “Oh! Actually, Mom said we were supposed to carve–” “I’ll ask your mom, don’t worry,” Dexter interrupted quickly. “It’s always good to make friends.” He hoped his smile didn’t look too forced. Astor shrugged, seemingly satisfied, and turned up the radio. With that, Dexter let the music fill up the space. His foot slowly pressed on the brake once they rolled up to Rita’s house. “Thanks, Dex!”, Astor chirped as they began to get out of the vehicle. Dexter walked Astor up the front porch steps, already feeling the heat despite it supposedly being winter. It’s like the Sun never gives up Dexter flashed Rita his normal smile and leaned in to give her cheek a kiss. “Hey, Rita” She still smelled the same since he first met her. Rita gazed up at him with a smile, her arm crossed, and hair tightly held up.

“Hey, you”, she spoke softly, letting Astor inside. “Thank you for picking up Astor. You’re a lifesaver.” A soft huff let her lips before curving into another small smile. Her lips were beginning to part again before Dexter quickly spoke out.

“Uh, actually, Astor was wondering if she could bring her friend over tomorrow? Bunny.”, his eyes darted behind Rita to see Astor already distracted before darting his attention back to Rita’s face. Rita’s eyebrows furrowed slightly, turning her body to glance at Astor for a quick second. “Oh, really? Yeah, that’s fine. What time?” Rita spoke out softly, gazing back up into Dexter’s hazel eyes.

“Oh, well, just whatever works for you”, he stuffed his hands into the pockets of his khakis. Rita’s pink lips parted hesitantly. “Sorry, but I’m kind of busy and I’d have to find a babysister-”

“I can babysit – wouldn’t want to disappoint Astor”, Dexter quickly spoke out again, his hand raising to rub the thin layer of sweat on his forehead. There was a moment of silence with Rita’s lips still parted until a small chuckle left her and she nodded.

“Right. Thank you so much, Dex.” The ginger haired man nodded his head. “Yeah, no problem. I’ll just pick them up together,” he added smoothly.

Dexter flashed his bright smile, white teeth shining under the Sun as he slowly stepped backwards, waving goodbye to Rita and the kids.

Finally.A breath of relief left Dexter’s lips once he settled into the driver’s seat. Still, as much as Bunny occupied his thoughts, he still had another killer on his radar. Someone who seemed to always be watching him. His fingers brushed against the Barbie head on his keychain, letting it glint in the sun.

B.YHer small fingers wrapped tightly around the edge of her doorframe. It was hard to hear, even in broad daylight, with only two occupants. The quiet words didn’t really echo in this new house. Despite that, she heard a sigh escape her fathers lips once he hung up the phone and stuffed it into his pocket.

He sniffled lightly before turning around, catching Bunny eavesdropping. Immediately, she froze, holding her breath subconsciously until he nodded, seemingly not upset. “You should ask me yourself next time instead of having your friend’s dad do it.”

The words were spoken with a flat tone, but it still made her stomach twist in a knot. Her eyebrows furrowed in a slight confusion, yet she nodded regardless. “But yeah, you can go to… what’s her name? Ashley? Ashley’s house tomorrow after school”

What?Her slightly chapped lips twitched hesitantly. “...Astor, you mean?” All he responded with was a curt nod and walked away to the living room. “That’s a guys name, no?” His chuckle rang through the house, shaking his head in amusement and waving it off as if it was a great joke.

Bunny chewed on the inside of her cheek, feeling a mixture of confusion, relief, and excitement for tomorrow. She didn’t ask to hang out, but if Astor wanted to, she wasn’t going to deny some time away from home. Slowly, the edges of her mouth upturned as she closed the door again, returning inside her bedroom.

Tomorrow. ₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER FOUR: BLACK MOUNTAIN SIDE. . . ★⋆

Bzzz Bzzz Bzzz That annoying ringtone echoed in Bunny’s ear even after she firmly turned off the alarm. A tired groan left her lips as she raised her hands to rub her eyes. She swallowed harshly, tasting her own unwashed mouth, and slowly got off the bed. Immediately, stretching her limbs before lazily walking into her bathroom. “Damn”, She groaned once the lights hit her eyes. She murmured curses under her breath, raising her hand to rub her eyes before she put them to work. The toothpaste tasted like its normal minty flavor, and the shower was warm enough to let the steam rise, fogging up the mirrors once she turned off the water. A heavy sigh left her lips as she pulled on her clothes–not as warm as the water, but good enough for the morning. The kitchen was quiet during these early hours.  Mom was gone, and dad was still sleeping. It all felt mechanical as she ate her microwaved oatmeal in silence. Her eyes darted to the kitchen window, seeing the street relatively empty. Most parents had already left for work—except for her neighbor. She took the final spoonful of her oatmeal and carefully placed the plate in the sink. Her fingers moved to grasp her backpack and guitar, slinging them over her shoulders. A shiver went down her spine as she stepped outside, locking the door behind her, and making her way to her neighbor's van.

The wind blew through her dark brown hair, the Sun shining through the clouds. And despite the early hours, Bunny was immediately met with a smile and a warmed-up GMC van. A light grey van that her father would never dare to own.

“Hey, Bunny! Packed and ready to go to school?” Arthur asked excitedly. Bunny could only foster a soft smile and nodded, the aroma of the flowers hitting her nose.

Bunny fostered a soft smile and nodded. “Morning, Arthur. Yeah, I’m all packed.” She placed her backpack and guitar in the back of the van. Bunny watched as he shut the back doors and opened the passenger for her.

There was a strange warmth that spread within her chest once she settled into her seat, the belt clicking securely over her torso. Her gaze followed Arthur as he settled into the driver's seat. The radio became background noise once she turned her head to gaze out of the window, watching the passing cars until the new school appeared in view. Arthur parked the car and was already stepping out. Bunny sucked in a sharp breath, already missing the heater of the car as she followed Arthur to the back of his van.

Still, a grateful smile appeared on her face as she slung on her guitar and backpack. “Thank you, Arthur. Hope you have a good day at work”, she spoke softly and gazed up at the tall man. Arthur gave her a smile and nodded.

“You too, Bunny. Make sure to not give us teachers a hard time”, he chuckled, watching Bunny until she officially passed the black gate to drive away.

The classroom was bigger than her old elementary school rooms, yet somehow it felt more crowded. She scrunched her nose and stood near the back with the other students.

Bunny’s eyes glanced around the room, seeing the new students, and decoration. She snapped out of her daze when her name was called and quickly walked to her assigned desk. It seemed like only a few seconds until the classroom was filled with chatter.

Everyone already knows each other…Bunny shifted in her seat awkwardly, gazing down at the assigned sheet of homework.

Ice breakers. Hmm.

Her dark blue eyes darted around the room before she quickly grabbed her pencil and started filling in fake answers.

Maybe the teacher wont notice…Bunny’s eyebrows furrowed noticeably as she swung her legs beneath the desk. Time always slowed whenever her nerves were on fire. Still, she let her classmates at her table grab her worksheet to pile up, letting the teacher collect them.

A heavy breath of relief let her lips once the bell rang. She knew soon she’d dread coming here practically every single day, but for now, she’d let herself relax a bit. Quickly, she grabbed her guitar that rested in the back of the classroom and headed outside.

Okay…everyone knows where to go too…Her fingers tightened over her guitar as she sat on a flat concrete circle, waiting and watching everyone pass by before searching for a quiet place. Quietly, trying to avoid bumping into anyone, she settled sitting down against the wall of one of the school's buildings. Hesitantly, she tried to avoid staring at anyone and focus on playing.

Why does it feel like I’m worse than yesterday?Bunny groaned to herself, but quickly shut up when she noticed another kid passing by.

Or not.Her head tilted up to gaze at the other girl.

“Hey”, The brown-haired girl spoke, gazing down at her.

“...hey”, Bunny responded softly, unsure where to look.

Despite the awkwardness Bunny felt, the girl replied again with a soft smile and sat next to her—maybe a little too close. “That’s a cool guitar.”

“Uh, thanks… Do you have one?” Bunny asked, finally glancing back at her. She almost counted the freckles that were spread across the girl's face.

“No”, the girl shook her head and smiled, glancing down at the guitar. “My name's Astor”, she spoke softly and nodded, darting her eyes back up to Bunny’s face. “You’re Bunny, right? I heard the teacher call out your name. Are you good at playing?”

A small smile appeared on Bunny’s lips and she nodded. “Yeah, I mean, I think so”, a small chuckle left her lips..

“Play something for me”, Astor spoke quickly, smiling eagerly and staring at Bunny, waiting for her to move.

“Oh… Well, I don't know…”, Bunny’s voice trailed off and shook her head. “I’m just practicing right now. So, maybe later?” Her voice was quiet and soft, as she turned her head to stare at Astor.

Astor’s smile dipped, but she nodded regardless. “Yeah, I get it”

RingggggBoth girls felt a rise of disappointment at the sound. A sigh leaving their lips. Slowly, but surely the sounds of students footsteps became louder as everyone lined up next to their classroom door. “Damn”, Bunny murmured and watched Astor confidently rise up.

Without much thought, she followed Astor back to the classroom. Bunny’s eyes constantly flickered between Astor who sat in front of her and the small lecture the teacher was spewing. It seemed like in one blink everyone was packing up.

Huh?Bunny’s eyebrows quickly furrowed and she fumbled putting away the syllabus, crunching the paper into her backpack. I guess it’s time to go. She followed Astor to the familiar black gates, standing beside her. Astor eyes met hers and she watched a smile appear on her face, white teeth shining against the hot Florida Sun.

“What?”,  she giggled, waiting beside her.

“Nothing”, Bunny spoke out and shrugged with a smile of her own. “Just waiting for my dad to pick me up”, she continued and glanced around the parking lot, watching kids getting into their parents car.

“Yeah, me too”, Astor spoke softly and paused. “Well, technically my mom’s boyfriend. His name’s Dexter. He’s pretty cool. My real dad’s away.”, Astor continued speaking and gazed around to try and find her step fathers car.

Bunny nodded silently, raising a slight eyebrow and biting her tongue to stay silent. Sometimes it was better not to pry. Her legs slightly shifted, noticing more of the weight of her guitar and backpack starting to hurt her shoulders.

“Oh! My ride’s here. You want to come with me? I’m sure Dexter will drop you off”, Astor’s smile was plastered on her face as she pointed to her ride. Bunny smiled, faltered slightly, but shook her head politely, taking a slow step back.

“No, I’m okay. Thank you, though”, she spoke out, eyes darting away from the familiar ginger-haired man. If Astor noticed her smile falter, she didn’t say anything and instead waved goodbye. “Okay! See you tomorrow, Bunny!”

Bunny nodded automatically and sucked in a sharp breath, gazing around the traffic until she spotted her dad’s ride. This time he was driving his classic Tahoe. A grin gleamed on her face as she hurried to the black Tahoe, letting her dad help with placing her backpack and guitar in the back.

Her fingers pushed on the seatbelt until she heard the click and her head turned towards the school watching it become smaller as her father drove back home. ₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER THREE: WHAT IS AND WHAT SHOULD NEVER BE. . . ★⋆

“What are you, security now?” Bunny took a final glance back inside her household with a small smile and nodding to her father’s teasing. She shook her head, but before she could take a full step out to her porch, she felt those warm lips on the top of her head. His hand practically engulfed her head until he decided to let go. He flashed that familiar, reassuring smile.

For a moment, it was safe again. The door shut behind with a soft click. The Sun reflected in her dark blue eyes as they flickered around the new neighborhood. Dusk seemed to make everything quieter. But in a city like Miami, nobody really sleeps at night. Her small hand wrapped around the neck of her guitar and slung the strap over her shoulder. It was semi-heavy, but Bunny smiled at it regardless. There was something almost funny about how fast moods can change within households. All the more reason to be grateful when they did. So, as she slipped on her earbuds, she walked onto the sidewalk to finally enter the city that was far too large for her. The heat hadn’t really gone anywhere, just loosened its grip for the night while the cicadas were buzzing loud enough to blur thoughts. The notes rang out quietly as she strummed each string – this time, just letting the sound exist. It was far too late in the evening to be stressed. People were already on their dates, seemingly eager to be around each other and loosen up. “Oh, shi–”, Something similar to a squeak escaped Bunny’s throat and she felt her body immediately stiffen, stumbling back. Her head snapped up quickly to see the woman and man. The woman—Cuban, maybe—smelled like sweet and warm perfume, almost enough to make Bunny forget about the city’s edges. The man spoke first. “Careful,” the voice said lightly. Bunny nodded at the man’s words, finally taking a moment to gaze into his hazel-ish green eyes. His sharp features were illuminated by the neon signs of motels and clubs. A star contrast to his slightly curly black hair. “Sorry-” “You shouldn’t sneak up on people,” he said, his tone smooth and his smile charismatic – suspiciously so. Her grip tightened on the neck of her guitar and jaw clenched. She didn’t know whether it was appropriate to just walk away or to answer the strangers question. Stranger danger? Before she could respond, her lips parted and ready, he spoke again. “You were distracted.” He shifted closer—not much. Enough to notice though. For some reason, Bunny’s feet were stuck on the dirty concrete. Similarly, the man parted his lips, but was interrupted by the woman in provocative clothing. Gosh, her father would’ve killed her if she dressed like that. But there was something similar to envy in her chest, wishing she had that freedom. “Just leave her alone”, She spoke out, sparing a polite glance and small smile to Bunny. The man’s smile faltered, yet only for a quick second before he nodded. Bunny’s eyebrows furrowed slightly at the pair, never getting a chance to respond again. “You’re right,” he said, staring down at her, not sparing the Cuban woman a glance. “Stay safe, and keep playing guitar”, he let out a small amused huff, like she said something charming. But all Bunny could manage to do was nod in response and keep her guitar close to her as she finally was given the chance to walk past them. The whiff of something sterile hit her nostrils and she quickly scrunched her nose, lifting her hand to rub the tip. Bunny sniffled and shook her head, trying to rub away the interaction. It bothered her more than it should have. Still, she picked up her guitar, hands hovering over the strings— And for the first time, didn’t know what to play. ₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER TWO: WHEN THE LEVEE BREAKS. . . ★⋆

“Bunny! Here, now!” The feeling hit her chest instantly. Tight. Uncomfortable. Almost makes her not want to breathe at all. Still, she knew she had no choice. Bunny rested her guitar on the lawn once she began heading inside her home. There was a soft click when she closed the door behind her. The cool metal of the doorknob against the heat of the world around her. “Hand me the open wrench, you know how your mom is”, her father said. That familiar stern, yet not too deep, voice haunted Bunny. Thump. Thump. I know tools. I know what an open wrench is – so why couldn’t she decide? Quickly, she moved to the tool bag, rummaging through the tools before laying out the wrenches. For some reason, her mind went blank. Open wrench? Big or small? She wanted to bring all of them, just in case, but iIf she brought all of them, he’d say she was being difficult. If she brought the wrong one— “Am I seriously going to have to get up?!” The air was hot as she sucked in a sharp breath and grasped the cool metal of one wrench, quickly bringing it up to him and placing it into his outstretched hand. There was so much tension that a knife could cut it. But the fact that he grasped it, didn’t say anything, and used it – that meant Bunny was safe. For now at least. Bunny nodded and quietly stood beside him, waiting for more instructions. Just in case because her mother has already left. She always left once Bunny was asked to assist. Even when she did something right, Bunny stayed ready.

₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[xxbxnny20]

All Of My Love (To You, Child)

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈ A Dexter (2006) Fanfiction

⋆★ . . .CHAPTER ONE: BEAUTIFUL CHILD. . . ★⋆

“Fuck” There was nothing worse than heat irritation. A huff escaped past her lips, followed by another drag of smoke as Bunny fought both herself and the Miami sun. The moving trucks were still parked along the curb, even though all the furniture had already been hauled inside. The house felt full, somehow heavier than before.

Sweat clung in a thin, uncomfortable layer against her skin as the sun bore down on everything.

Her head nodded with the rhythm as she strummed, fingers moving on instinct. The same progression, over and over—same notes, same chords—searching for something harder, something that didn’t feel so familiar. The “correct” way replayed in her head, mocking her every time she slipped.

Her fingertips burned.

Reluctantly, she let her hands fall away and leaned back against the concrete of her parents’ new driveway. The gray surface was cool beneath her palms, grounding in a way the house never was.

Then there it was again—sound bleeding through drywall and stucco. California never really left them. Her parents’ voices were muffled, but sharp enough to make her jaw tighten. A small, almost unnoticeable frown pulled at her mouth.

How long until her father called her name?

“I still have schoolwork too…,” she murmured, the words barely more than breath.

Bunny’s eyelids flutter, trying to recover once she hears footsteps.

Everyone in Miami was always moving. Joggers, cyclists, people chasing something. FOMO came free with the heat. Bunny’s eyes flicked up as a man slowed near the edge of the driveway, green eyes lingering just long enough to register the cigarette between her fingers.

“You know that stuff stunts growth,” he said evenly, not unkind. Not loud either.

Her spine straightened.

“It’s just one,” she snapped, even though they both knew it wasn’t the point.

The man nodded once, as if checking off a box in his head. “Right.”

He didn’t argue. Didn’t wait. He picked his pace back up and continued down the street, disappearing between palm shadows and parked cars.

Bunny watched until he was gone, then crushed the cigarette beneath her shoe. The tense muscles in her frame relaxed again, the hint of a frown painted on her lips again. 

The silence crept back in.

She picked up her guitar again, fingers hovering over the strings, but didn’t play. Just stared down at the scratches and glossy finish.

₍ ᐢ.ˬ.ᐢ₎˚୨୧

[moonwalkerandthedragon-deactiva]

Robert being subtle

[ledbythreads]

a superb collection - in plain sight

[daughterofcainnnn]

[animentality]