Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Good morning boys!" I announce cheerily as I walk into their room, flicking on the light switch. Huey was already up and setting his bed (his guidebook made my job slightly easier sometimes). Dewey groaned and rolled over, shoving his face into the pillow to avoid the light.

"Don't make me get up," Louie complained from his higher bunk. I dragged over a chair and scooped him out of bed, holding him under his arm pits and swinging him around.

"It's such a lovely day!" I promised before finally plopping him on the ground. Dewey sat up to avoid also being swung around.
With that job done, i headed down to help with breakfast. I mostly just sat on the countertop looking cute while beakley and duckworth did all the cooking (who knew ghosts could cook?).

I had started working for Mr. McDuck, the richest duck in Duckberg, a few weeks ago. I quickly adjusted into the role and became friendly with all of the members of the family. The one who I was least friendly with though, was Mr. McDuck himself. Beakley and Duckworth really got along with him (one even stuck around in the afterlife) and yet I was still nervous around him.

Although I think my nervousness stemmed from the fact I was very much attracted to Mr. McDuck which led to me overthinking all of our interactions and running away as much as possible. No one seemed to really notice though, except for him. I don't think he minded, maybe he didn't even care.

"Can you set the table? breakfast is almost ready," Beakley asked. I hopped off the counter and grabbed the plates and silverware.

"Of course!" I replied as I headed into the dining room. Mr. McDuck was sitting at the head of the table with a newspaper while his nephews and niece stood around him, excited to hear about the next adventure.
I began setting down the plates carefully as I listened in.

"We'll leave after you eat your breakfast," Scrooge promised as he flipped his newspaper higher. They all cheered before finally backing off. I chuckled, which got the attention of Mr. McDuck. He looked at me over his newspaper and I quickly averted my gaze. I heard him crinkle his newspaper again.

The kids had also taken notice of me now and Huey hopped up onto my shoulders which he'd developed a habit of doing.

"Y/N should join us!" Huey suggested with hope in his voice. I smiled as I finished aligning the silverware.

"That's very sweet but I have work to do here, little one," I said, shutting the idea down before their uncle could. I lifted Huey over my head and put him down on the closest chair with a smile.

Mr. McDuck lowered his news paper to the table and looked at me, and I looked back before tensing up and rushing off. All the kids were watching by this point.

Later that night I was picking up leftover pep cans from the TV room. Louie was dozed off on the couch so I picked him up to carry him to bed. His brothers and Webby were playing a board game on the floor and looked up as I entered.
I put Louie back on the bed where I had ripped him from that morning.

"Why don't you like Uncle Scrooge?" Webby asked, appearing beside me with curious eyes. I sat down on the floor in front of the bunks since the other two were still on the ground.

"I do like your Uncle Scrooge!" I protested, slightly confused.

"We asked him and he said you didn't seem to like him," Dewey explained. My heart did a little jump at that, oops.

"That's-" I began as the door opened again and the man of the hour looked in.

"What are you kids still-" He began loudly before I shushed him. He looked taken aback before I pointed to the knocked out Louie. I stood up and the kids rushed into their beds, and webby out the door. I clicked off the light and wished them a goodnight before gently closing the door. Then I was alone with Mr. McDuck in the hallway.

I fiddled with the edge of my apron as I waited for him to say something or walk off. He stared at me, and I eventually met his gaze. He looked kind of sad, but also very attractive in this lighting. I felt my face flush at my own thought and then he noticed and his eyes widened a bit.

"Goodnight Sir!" I said louder than intended before rushing off. I heard his cane move but he didn't call out or anything.

Chapter Text

It was a weekend so I was letting the kids sleep in a little bit longer. Beakley had taken the day off to go shopping for some gifts for webby and regular groceries for the mansion. I leaned against the countertop that I usually sat on, sipping some tea and looking out into the hallway, hoping to catch a glance of my employer. I had been lifting my cup to my mouth when i realized what i had been looking for, but quickly shrugged it off.

"Are you in love with Uncle Scrooge?" Huey asked. I had not been paying much attention. I choked on my tea and began coughing.

"No!" I protested with an evident blush. They had definitely heard me last night.

"What's all the ruckus in here this early?" a familiar scottish voice asked as Mr. McDuck once again walked into the room at the worst possible time. "Leave Y/N alone, go wait in the dining room," he scolded. They rushed off. I smiled at him.

"Thank you, I'll go ahead and start breakfast," I said as I turned away.

"I can cook today, Beakley's usually the chef anyway. Although come to think of it I don't know what you usually do while she cooks," He noted.

"I can cook I just don't usually," I defended. But then again, he knew I was good at my job nonetheless.

"So what do you do before you set the table?" He inquired. I avoided answering for a moment.

"Sit on the counter and look cute?" I answered honestly. He turned to look at me, surprised, before letting out a laugh.

"Alright, you do that then and keep me company while I cook," He requested. I nodded and smiled to myself, now I could catch more than just a glimpse of him and he wouldn't even notice because his back was turned. "I can feel you watching me," Mr. McDuck remarked. I flinched.

"Just interested in what you're cooking," I lied. I couldn't read his expression from here.

"I'm making pancakes, figured i'd keep it simple," he explained. I continued watching him. "If you have something to say you can spit it out lass," Mr. McDuck said after a few more moments. I tensed up again and fiddled with my apron.

"I don't have anything to say," I assured. He glanced over his shoulder at me with a stern look. I held his gaze with as neutral of an expression as i could muster. He turned back to the pancakes.

"I'll go ahead and set the table," I offered as I got up from the counter. I made my way over to the cabinet where the plates were kept. Usually Duckworth got them down from the high shelf I couldn't very easily reach and left them on the counter. I reached up, trying to grab them but only succeeded in scraping them against the wood and inching them closer to the edge.
A hand came up next to mine and grabbed the plates as i felt a figure behind me. He handed me the plates and i turned around to face him.

"Thank you," I said with another evident blush, thinking about how our feathers brushed.

"All you had to do was ask for help," Mr. McDuck assured with a smile. Maybe he did think i didn't like him.

"I will, sir," I promised. He bristled a little when I said sir. was that too formal? I did a slight bow before rushing off to the dining room, plates in hand. The children weren't in there waiting, which was odd.

I walked out into the entranceway to see the door slightly ajar and a note taped on it.

"We're headed to Lena's and we'll be back late so don't worry and have fun!" the note read, very clearly webby's handwriting. I crumpled up the note with playful anger. Lena didn't really live anywhere specific from what i knew. she was just sort of always around somewhere in duckberg.

"Breakfast is ready!" my employed shouted from the kitchen. I headed back over to give him the news. "There seems to be a lack of ducks in this room," he told me.

"Yes, seems they went to Lena's, wherever that is. It's just us until they get back late," I explained. I realized how suggestive it may have sounded and and kicked myself internally.

"Seems like it'll be a peaceful day then, we can both get some work done," he observed. I nodded.

"Right as always Mr. McDuck," I commended, and he didn't bristle at what I called him this time. Guess that'll be what i stick to.

"Yes, but let us eat breakfast first. I made these pancakes myself after all!" he reminded me proudly. Alone with Scrooge McDuck sharing a meal, maybe in another universe it was a date.

Mr. McDuck sat at the head of the table as usual, and I sat to his left. he put a stack of pancakes big enough for all four kids on the table in front of us, guess he was going to let the kids eat first and eat with me afterwards anyway.

"They're very good!" I complimented after i took my first bite. he seemed happy at my praise.

"I'm glad you like them," he replied with a smile. We continued to eat in silence for a few minutes before he spoke up.

"I heard what Dewey told you last night," Mr. McDuck said, I stopped chewing my pancakes for a second before swallowing. he was watching me which was making me even more nervous. "I interrupted before i could hear what you were going to say. but i ask that you please tell me now, i want to know what i can do to make you feel more comfortable here," He explained. he was so sweet, i wanted to hug him.

"I am comfortable here! I was just going to say that I do like you, i'm just more nervous around you because you're my boss," I admitted, but the last part was sort of a lie. Beakley hired me and was more like my boss, the real reason I was nervous was because he was the duck of my dreams and i was afraid of slipping up.

"Well, i'm glad you like me. and don't feel nervous because of that, i'm not going to fire you as long as you keep doing a good job," he assured, reaching out to pat my hand that was laying on the table. He set his hand down on mine for a second before moving it back to his silverware. My poor heart.

Chapter Text

As i cleaned the few rooms of the house Beakley and I had not finished yesterday I kept thinking about what Huey had asked me. Was I in love with Mr. McDuck? My face flushed at the thought of it for about the hundredth time today.

I shook off the thought and continued sweeping, humming to myself as I did so. I was cleaning the bathroom closest to Mr. McDucks office, which tempted me to peek in and see what he was doing. I glanced over at the doorway and nearly dropped my broom.

"Mr. McDuck! How long have you been standing there?" I asked with slight horror. He was leaning up against the doorframe with a smile, just watching me.

"Long enough to watch you zone out, get embarassed, and return to your work. I have to use the washroom, so hurry up," he said with slight impatience.

"Yes, sir!" I obeyed, and he bristled at the title again. I quickly swept up the dirt i had collected into the dustpan and exited the room. My hand brushed up against his as i passed by him. He watched me leave before closing the door and going about his business.

I took this chance to go dust his office real quick since I had not yesterday and would forget tomorrow when i moved on to another part of the house.

I grabbed my feather duster and began cleaning the shelves and trinkets he kept with him. His desk was a mess of papers, and i didn't think it a good idea to mess with them right now.

After a few minutes I heard Mr. McDuck coming down the hallway, and so I did some final hasty dusting before exiting the room. He had a few papers in his hand that he must've went and got after he used the bathroom.

"Ah, Y/N, just the duck i was hoping to see. I want a break, care to join me for lunch?" My employer offered when he saw me. I smiled.

"Sure, want me to cook?" He continued into his office and put down the papers as I talked to him.

"No, I can cook again," he replied. I frowned.

"I really can cook! or make something that doesn't involve cooking," I promised.

"I'm sure you can, but i pay you to clean, and you help with the kids, you don't need to cook too." he explained. he really was the nicest. Beakley was the housekeeper, i was supposed to be just a maid or butler. But i liked the kids and wanted to help out as much as i could.

I followed him down to the kitchen and excused myself to go use the bathroom to wash my hands. When i was in there i splashed some water on my face and tried to focus on innocent thoughts.

"Are you in love with Uncle Scrooge?" Huey's voice rang in my head.

"No!" I shouted to myself in the mirror.

"Everything alright in there, Y/N?" Mr. McDuck shouted back.

"Just a bug!" I lied and quickly made my way out of the room. He was in the dining room with an amused look on his face when i came back. "It was!" I promised. He put down two sandwich plates.

"Woah, these look good," I admitted as I sat down in front of it. He looked pleased with the praise.

After we settled down and began eating he asked me another question.

"Are you sure you're alright? you've been acting more strange than usual," the scottish duck asked before taking another bite of his sandwich. I stared at him blankly for a few seconds, processing.

"I don't behave strangely!" I replied, offended. "but yes, everything is alright. Huey just put an idea inside my head is all," i confessed.

"That's Huey for ya, but if you ever need to talk about it i'm all ears," he offered. My face flushed but I took a sip of water to try to cover.

"No, thank you, it's nothing important," I dismissed. He smiled at me and then continued eating.

Shortly before dinner i finished cleaning what needed to be done that day, and had finished a load of laundry. I was happy with myself, it was one of the most productive days i had had in awhile. Maybe it's just because the kids have been gone so long and having a night alone with no work with Mr. McDuck was tempting though. I shook my head to clear the thought.

I went back to my room to change out of my apron and into something more comfortable before it was time to eat. I wondered what the plan for dinner was. I made my way into the empty dining room and sat down at the chair I had been at for the past two meals. I folded my feathered hands on the table and rested my head on them, titled to the side so i could look out the window. Before I knew it, i was asleep.

I woke up to someone gently shaking my shoulders. I lifted my head up groggily before laying eyes on Mr. McDuck. My eyes probably lit up as my beak formed into a smile.

"Dinner's almost ready, figured you should eat before you call it a night," Mr. McDuck explained. I probably looked confused, i was half asleep and didn't really know what was going on. "Take a few minutes to wake up, lad," he added before reaching up to pat my head. My cheeks grew warm as I looked over at him with open eyes.

He went back to the kitchen and I stood up from the chair and stretched. Chairs were not the best place to sleep. I yawned before making my way into the kitchen and lifting myself up onto my usual countertop. The chef of the day looked over his shoulder at me and tipped his hat. It was a successful enough night by my standards.

Chapter Text

Mr. McDuck and i continued to make conversation even after dinner as we waited for the kids to get home. Who knew if we'd have to rescue them from the Beagle Boys again. But Lena was a magic wizard witch thing so they'd probably be fine if they really did visit her.

"I don't know how you take care of the kids so well," my employer admitted. I grinned.

"I'm just that good, what can I say?" I beamed. Then i yawned, "although it is a bit tiring at times. like right now. Can they come home already? I'm tired."

"If you fall asleep I'll carry you to bed like you do to them," Mr. McDuck offered playfully.

"I doubt you could carry me," I answered. Wrong response, he took it as a challenge.
"Oh we'll see about that," he accepted, standing up from his chair and successfully scooping me up bridal style. My heart was beating like crazy.

"Ok, ok, you can carry me like this," I admitted defeat as he began to take me to my room. "But can you spin me around like i do with the kids? didnt think so," I tempted. I wanted to see how far i could take this. As i spoke we reached the foyer and he put me down.

I was about to open my mouth when he lifted me by my sides this time and swung me around, I placed my hands on his shoulders and laughed.

"Maybe you're not as old and weak as I thought," I teased. The door opened and the kids were all about to walk in. Scrooge still had me lifted up and it took us a moment to turn and look at them. He quickly put me down.

"We were just-" he began, embarrassed. I looked down slightly and covered my face with my hands. I was never going to live this down. They all stood there stunned for a moment before Dewey spoke up.

"Ooo, Uncle Scrooge and Y/N were getting flirty when we were gone," he laughed before they all joined in, giggling.

"Go back to your rooms," Mr. McDuck told them with his thick scottish accent before faking a cough. They scurried away, still laughing. I kept my face in my hands. "Aw, don't worry, it'll blow over soon," Mr. McDuck promised once he took notice of my reaction. He moved in front of me and put a hand on my shoulder.

I looked up at him and we stared into each others eyes for a moment before he broke the tension.

"Guess we can go to bed without worry now," he brought up, i nodded. He slid his hand down my arm and grabbed my hand.

"Let's go, now, it's probably best you walk by yourself though," he teased. I smiled.

"Yeah," I agreed as he led the way to my room, still holding my hand.

I woke up later than i usually did, but still before breakfast. I rushed down the stairs, hoping to still be able to watch Mr. McDuck cook again. When i reached the kitchen it was only my two co-workers cooking the food. I slowed my roll and tried not to look disappointed or embarrassed.

"Ah, Y/N, just in time," Duckworth noted. I nodded at him before grabbing the plates. At least Mr. McDuck would be in the dining room waiting.

I entered the room with hopefulness, not even worried about dealing with the kids teasing. They usually got up by themselves when they didn't have an adventure the day before, so even though i hadn't woken them up they should still be ready.

My shoulders drooped when the dining room was empty. I set down the plates and silverware as I had many times before. Once i was done, instead of returning to the kitchen, i stared out the window i had fallen asleep next to the night before. Maybe it was all just a dream and Beakley carried me to bed when she got back.

"Waiting for someone?" a friendly scottish voice asked. I spun around.

"No," I protested with a flush. He gave me a knowing smile before going past me to sit at his usual seat. I rushed back into the kitchen, but stopped in the doorway to look over my shoulder at him. He was watching me and tipped his hat again.

Every Sunday i had a "fancy" lunch with Launchpad on the hood of the limo. I don't know how he didn't crush it, but i didn't want to stop and question it.

The fancy lunch was just apple juice in a fancy glass, some average cheese i cut myself, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches cut into triangles and stuck with a toothpick, but Launchpad didn't seem to mind. Or realize it wasn't fancy. We ate on a picnic blanket i had to wash after every single time.

The limo was parked in the mess of a garage but we had the door open and were looking outside. I was sat criss-cross facing launchpad who was leaning back against the windshield staring at the sun. I bit my sandwich curiously.

"What are you thinking about so deeply?" I inquired. It was probably something dumb.

"Do you think I should apply for my go-kart driving license?" he asked seriously. I stared at him.

"No," I decided before eating another bite of my sandwich. He pondered my answer.

"You're right. There's usually only room for one person in them so Mr. McD would have to drive himself," He nodded. I finished my sandwich and didn't bother telling him you don't need a license for go-karts.
My friend leaned back slightly and I got worried about the windshield.

"Careful not to-" I began, leaning towards him.

"Launchpad!" A scottish shout called from down the hall. He sat up suddenly, slamming his forehead into mine.

"Mr. McD!" He let out in surprise, trying to get up to go see what he needed. I fell backwards and began losing my balance, so I grasped for the nearest thing which happened to be Launchpad. He began getting up as I grabbed him and we fell onto the hard ground.

I landed on my back and moved one of my hands to the top of my head.

"Hey Mr. McD!" Launchpad greeted, he landed on top of me but caught himself on the ground with his hands. It was kind of a suggestive position. Launchpad was oblivious.

"Could you-" our employer paused. "What are you two doing?" he asked, more perplexed than anything.

"Getting a concussion," I lamented. Launchpad looked down, surprised to see me.

"Weren't we just on the car?" He remembered. I closed my eyes.

"Yeah," I admitted, sadly. Launchpad got to his feet and Mr. McDuck offered me his hand. I grabbed it and he helped me to my feet.

"Are you alright?" he asked with genuine sincerity. I rubbed my head.

"I'll get back to you on that," I replied with a reassuring smile. He provided a small smile back and we just sort of stared at each other again.

"Five second rule still works in garages, right?" Launchpad asked suddenly, oblivious to what was going on. I turned to see him about to pop a piece of cheese into his mouth. I walked over and took it from him.
"We'll have more next week," I promised. He nodded thoughtfully.

"Uh-huh, Uh-huh, got it," the bigger duck promised. I don't think he got it.

"I need a ride to the bin later, Launchpad. Make sure the limo is ready," Mr. McDuck informed Launchpad.

"Aye-aye, sir!" he obeyed.

"And i'll go wash the picnic blanket again, and finish the rest of the laundry," I sighed as I grabbed the leftovers. We had spilled the apple juice onto the blanket.

Mr. McDuck joined me on my walk back.
"Do you usually eat with Launchpad?" He asked. I chuckled.

"No, just on Sundays to start off the week right. I've always wanted to eat on the hood of a limo, and now I get to! I asked him if he cared the first time I did it, and he said sure and then just sort of joined me. And now we eat on the limo every sunday, with foods I make seem fancy," I explained to the old duck beside me.

"That's a nice tradition," he remarked, seemingly taking note.

"I do know my way around the house now, Mr. McDuck," I said after we continued on in silence.

"I know, I just figured i'd walk with you for a bit," he admitted with small chuckle. I felt my face flush again.

Once we did get to the laundry room he did have to dismiss himself, but promised we would chat again soon.

Chapter Text

I wanted to get my mind off of my growing affections for my rich employer, and the kids asked me to play with them during their sleepover. Lena, Violet, and Gosalyn had all come over to spend the night in the mansion. The kids had all brought sleeping bags into Webby's room.

After some more athletic involvement games they finally settled down to play some good old fashioned board games. Once they got tired of those, it was time for question games.

"Webby, truth or dare?" Lena challenged in a 'scary' tone of voice. Webby's eyes practically lit up.

"Dare!" she screamed, hopping onto her feet. Lena smiled.

"You knew she was going to say that," Violet remarked.

"I dare you to... steal one of Louie's stuffed animals he keeps hidden!" the sorceress finally decided. I was glad it wasn't anything all that dangerous.

"Yes!" Webby accepted and went dashing off.

"No! Wait! And how does Lena know about that?" Louie protested, getting up to run after her. We all laughed.

Eventually they came back with Webby emerging victorious, and the rounds continued. And then it was my turn.

"Y/N, truth or dare?" Webby asked me. I pondered for a moment.

"Truth."

"I have the perfect one," Huey mentioned mischievously. I rolled my eyes.

"I'm sure you do," I remarked.

"Do you have a crush on uncle scrooge?" the boy asked. It shocked me a bit but i should've expected it. I got up and walked to the door.

"Hey! That's cheating, you can't leave!" Lena protested. I looked both ways in the hallway before shutting the door.

"Everytime one of you asks me about your uncle he walks into the room. But yes, i do, you have your answer," I explained. They giggled.

"Are you after his money?" Louie asked with interest.

"No," I promised with a smile. "Now don't go and get any ideas, i'm perfectly happy with my current relationship with him. he is my boss after all." They drooped at that.

"It's getting late, you should all get to bed before he walks in anyway." I stood back up and waited for them to scramble into their sleeping bags. I opened the door and clicked off the lights when they were ready.
Once i was out of the hallway next to Webby's room i laid by back against the wall and slid down to the ground. I put my hands on my knees and put my head down, wanting to rest for a minute. Why did i have to like Scrooge McDuck?

At least i got to see him almost every day, and he seemed to enjoy my company. the thought of that brought a smile to my face.
I heard someone walking down the hall towards me and tipped my head back. I assumed it was Beakley or Donald, Scrooge should be coming from the other direction if he was passing through.

It was dark so i couldn't see very well, but the figure was too small to be Beakley. It must have been Donald, probably wanting to check on the kids. Bad things tended to happen at their sleepovers. He slid down next to me.

"Everything alright, lass?" a scottish and very intelligible voice asked. I jumped.

"Mr. McDuck! I thought you were Donald!" I admitted without thinking. He laughed.

"Why on earth would you think that?" He asked. i thought about it for a moment.

"I don't know," I decided, ignoring my previous deductions.

"Do you make a habit of sitting depressedly in hallways?" the old duck asked. I chuckled a little.

"No. The kids just asked some odd questions is all," I defended, answering his earlier question.

"What is it that they keep pestering you about that intrigues you so much?" he asked curiously. I stiffened, maybe he heard.

"Nothing important," i lied, turning my head to look at him.

"It's not about Launchpad, is it?" he asked after a moment. I couldn't help but laugh.

"Sorry sir, i didn't mean to laugh at you. but no, it's not. i have no worries when it comes to him," i promised.

"i hope one day you'll deem whatever it is, worthy enough to tell me," he admitted. I really wanted to, but i knew it best to not. i really liked my job and did not want to get fired when i fit in so perfectly.

I felt bold, since it was so dark and he was being so nice to me. I scooted closer to him, but no so close that we were touching. He must've heard me, so he scooted closer as well, our shoulders were touching. I could feel the soft cotton of his classic jacket.

"Mr. McDuck?" I asked suddenly, without really intending to. it just kind of came out.

"Yes, Y/N?" he replied calmly, like he was expecting it. I blanked.

"It's nothing," i decided after a few seconds of silence. he didn't say anything.

All my brain could think about is how dark the room was and how nobody would be able to see what we were doing at first. we werent in a locked room but nobody would be walking down this hallway anytime soon. it was just me and him. I could practically feel his weight on top of me, his hands holding my face and-

I quickly snapped myself out of that train of thought. Not good to be fantasizing about your employed while his shoulder is against you.

I felt his pinky reach for mine, slowly, hesitantly. I stiffened and he halted his movements, but continued after i moved my pinky closer to him. He moved his hand on top of mine and interlocked our fingers. I leaned against him fully, resting my head against his shoulder. We didn't say anything, just listened to to each other's breathing.

Before I knew it i was drifting off into sleep, it was so peaceful...

I felt myself getting carried up some stairs and stirred from my sleep a little, before being too tired to care and immediately trying to sleep again. I felt myself being laid onto a soft surface, and curled up into a ball, ready to fall fully asleep again. At the loss of contact i reached for whoever it was that had carried me, their arms were so warm.

I felt a soft jacket and resorted to holding onto it as i fell asleep.

Chapter Text

I woke up as i usually do, but noticed I was not in the middle of my bed like usual. I sat up and looked to the other side of my bed to see none other than scrooge mcduck next to me.

He was on top of the covers, not under them like i had been, and still had his usual clothes on. I knew we didn't do anything improper last night, but i was still embarrassed as i felt my heart start beating.

I remembered being in the hallway, i must've fallen asleep on his shoulder. I had a vague memory of being carried and reaching out, but it felt more like a dream.
I leaned over and gently shook his shoulder.

"Mr. McDuck," I said quietly, not wanting to startled him. He twisted a little before opening his eyes.

"What is it?" he asked with annoyance yet nonchalance. I just kind of stared at him. He opened his eyes properly this time and sat up, then realized where we were. This time his face got all red.

"I'm so sorry, Y/N. It must have been quite a surprise to find me in your bed. but nothing inappropriate happened, i promise," he quickly apologized and explained. I smiled at him and he calmed down.

"I know, but why are you in here with me? i remember we were in the hallway and i must've fallen asleep," I told him.

"Yes, and so did I. And then i woke up after a few hours and carried you to your room. I didn't want to wake you since you had to work today. Well, when i put you down you grabbed my jacket and wouldn't let go, and so i stayed with you." He explained with a cough, trying not to be embarrassed or make me feel embarrassed. I nodded.

"I see. thank you for staying with me, and i'm sorry for all the trouble," I admitted. He smiled at me.

"It's quite alright, had some of the best sleep i've had in awhile," he confessed. We stared at each other in silence again for the third time or something.

"I better go check on breakfast," i finally said.

"oh yes, and i better get ready for the day," he replied, scurrying off. I watched him go.

Beakley and Duckworth were getting close to finish breakfast so i went and woke the kids up. It was much easier to convince them to start the day when they had friends over.

I came back and went to set the table. Mr. McDuck had gotten ready for the day rather quickly, he was sitting there when i walked in. He was very invested in his newspaper. I placed down enough plates for all the kids and for him, but saved his plate for last. I reached next to him to put the plate down and glanced at him. He looked at me at the same moment, or was watching me all along, and we both quickly looked away, probably both blushing.

I scurried off into the kitchen and leaned against cold fridge to calm myself down. Beakley raised an eyebrow at me but didn't ask any questions as she carried the food into the dining room. I excused myself and ran back into my room to hide my embarrassment for awhile before having to get to work.

I'd been running into Mr. McDuck a lot these days, but today he should be gone on an adventure. Once i knew breakfast was over i went downstairs to look for my boss to confirm my duties for the day. When i came downstairs i saw her and Mr. McDuck arguing.

"Well then i'm going with you," Beakley decided sternly. Mr. McDuck muttered something but seemed to agree to her demand. I waited until i heard him leave to round the corner. "Ah, Y/N, I was just about to call you down. I'll be joining the kids and Scrooge today, Could you clean the windows? just that will be enough for today," she informed me. I nodded and immediately got to work.

I started with the windows next to the front door, peacefully humming to myself as I sprayed the glass and then wiped it clean. I knew they would be leaving to set out on the adventure soon, so i was trying not to take too long. I wanted to be somewhere else when they left.

I did indeed finish in time. But as I was leaving they walked into the room.

"Good morning, Y/N!" Huey greeted. I smiled at him and provided a small wave. Webby ran over to me and grabbed my arm, pulling me down. I squatted to be on her level.

"We won't tell uncle scrooge," she whispered into my ear, and I laughed.

"Thank you, Webby," I replied, and then looked past her to the rest of the crew. Mr. McDuck walked through the door.

"Oh, hi Y/N," He greeted awkwardly. I stood up and nodded at him. We looked away from each other and at the floor.

"I best be going, have fun on your trip!" I excused myself, not looking at any of them as i ran away.

Chapter Text

was in love with my boss. no matter how much time passed it wouldn't go away. one time i didn't see him for two weeks straight and the feelings didn't go away. i took time off and still no progress.

i tried to go out on a date only for it to get sabotaged by the kids because they want me to get with their uncle. I couldn't win.

There was only one way I could ever get over my feelings or have them reciprocated, i had to quit. I would miss the job and all the perks, but it was for the better in the long run.

I turned in my two week notice to mrs. beakley and asked her to keep it a secret from everyone, including mr. mcduck if possible. she complied and said she understood, i think she knew about my feelings. both the kids and their uncle would try and persuade me to stay.

the room i stayed in came furnished, so i only had to pack all my belongings into a couple suitcases. nobody ever bothered me when my door was closed so nobody noticed my packing. one day when they were all out on an adventure i brought all of my things except a couple clothes to my sisters house where i was going to crash temporarily.

everyone was home my final day. it made it hard for me to act normal, knowing i was going to leave this family i'd found myself a part of soon. the kids picked up on my despair.

"why are you so sad?" webby asked as i was cleaning up the table after dinner. The triplets were huddled behind her. I smiled sadly.

"i have some things to take care of," i crouched down and pulled her into a hug. "i'll be fine in a couple of days," i felt tears well up in my eyes and i wiped them away hastily. Huey, Dewey, and Louie when they saw me crying piled into the hug as well. I accepted but after taking a deep breath stood up and shooed them away.

"go and get ready for bed, you have a big day tomorrow," i ushered.

"we do?" Louie asked.

"probably," i theorized. and i'd never know what happened. i watched them go and quickly returned to my task. this was my decision, and it's not like id never see them again. i could visit. but id probably have to take some time off first.

"are you sure you want to go?" ms. beakley inquired from the doorway. i nodded.

"it's for the better," i assured her as i finished cleaning up. once i had finished my final task for the night i crept up to where i knew mr. mcduck would be awake in his office. the door was open and i peeked in to watch him.

he looked so perfect as he scowled at something he was reading. i tried not to make any noise so i could watch him for awhile but he must've sensed my presence. he looked up and broke into a smile. i reciprocated and did a little wave. before he could invite me in or ask anything i quickly ducked away. and that may be the last time i ever saw him.

my plan worked without a hitch. i was out and gone before anyone could stop me, and i knew they would. they may not realize for a couple days that im actually gone for good, but i worried about what they would do when they did. ms beakley could handle it, probably.

i had only given launchpad my number and told him we'd get lunch sometimes, but i swore him to secrecy. i don't know if he really understood, though.

two agonizingly long months went by. i found a new job that didn't involve me living on site so i was still at my sisters house. id need to find an apartment soon, though.

i had hung out with a lot of my friends to get my mind off things and i was finally ready to face launchpad. i missed him, among others, but he was the only one i could see.

i rang him up and told him to meet me at this food joint for lunch so we could catch up. i knew he arrived when i heard a crash outside. i chuckled and waved him over to the table. he hadn't changed a bit.

halfway through our catching up he got a call from his boss, and my former boss. i told him it was fine to answer and that i'd keep quiet.

"what's up mr. mcd?" he asked casually. i chewed on one of my fries. "but im eating lunch with my friend right now," he complained. i chuckled. "of course i have friends mr. mcd!" i could only guess what was being said. "i can't say, Y/N swore me to secrecy," he replied. i almost choked at that. he was doing so well. the other line hung up.

"that was weird," Launchpad shrugged. i laughed and we picked up where we left off. after about ten minutes i heard the bell at the door chime and a bunch of people enter very loudly. launchpad waved and i immediately knew who it was.

my name was shouted as a crowd approached my table.

"woah, woah, calm down," i laughed, just happy to see them all.

"you're alive!" webby exclaimed.

"and you're not being held for ransom," Louie remarked. i leaned back and started eating another fry.

"i'm quite alright, there's no need to worry," i smiled.

"then why haven't you been back?" Huey asked sadly. I looked at all of their faces before landing on mr. mcduck's. he looked stoic but also very sad.

"i had to quit, but you'll still see me around, like right now," i offered as i patted Huey's head.

"were we too much to handle?" Dewey asked. my heart broke at that.

"no, no, that's not it, don't be silly," i scolded.

"then why?" webby asked. i looked over at my former employer again before looking back at the kids.

"i couldn't keep working someplace where i had a huge crush on my boss, it wouldn't be right, you all know that," i chuckled lightheartedly. i avoided looking at mr. mcduck after that and turned back to my food.

"let's go," the duck in question demanded after some stunned silence.

"but-" dewey began before being interrupted.

"not you, stay here with launchpad," his uncle clarified as he pushed past the kids to grab my arm and pull me out of the booth.

"uh-" i began but he was already leading me out of the food joint and before i knew it we were in the back, all alone. i stood with my back against the wall as he stood there with both wings on his cane in front of me.

"long time no see?" i tried. he seemed to be deciding what to say. i sighed, "you can't scold me for quitting without telling you, you're not my boss anymore."

"it would have been nice to know before you just abandoned us all," he shot back with his thick scottish accent.

"would you have let me leave?" i rebuked as i crossed my arms.

"if that was what you truly wanted," the duck replied.

"you know what i wanted," i stared at him, "and the way things were i would never get it. so i had to leave, it wasn't good for me."

"you should've talked to me about it!" he shouted.

"and said what? 'oh i have to leave because im so in love with you, marry me if you want me to stick around'? that wouldn't gone over so well!" i shouted back.

"exactly! and then you could've stayed! we'll get married if that's what you want," he stamped his cane down angrily.

"what?" i asked incredulously.

"if you'll come back to me if we get married then let's get married," he replied like it was obvious. i stared at him dumbly. he stared at me, still angry.

"you can find another good employee you don't have to marry to keep around," i tried, my shoulders sagging defeatedly.

"i dont care about a good employee you idiot," he clarified as he stepped closer, "i want you, you don't have to be an employee anymore. we'll be together." he reached over to caress my face and i stared at him in surprise.

"oh," was all i managed out.

"so you guys are getting married?" Louie asked from next to us.

"i thought i told you to wait inside!" his uncle scolded, clearly embarrassed. i laughed as him and the others (launchpad included) scurried away.

"how much do you think they heard?" i asked as i watched them go.

"enough to where we don't have to tell them we're getting married," he grabbed my hand and led me back inside and i let him.

"you guys ate all my food!" i realized when we got back to the table.

"we were hungry!" huey defended. i rolled my eyes.

"launchpad will take you wherever you want to go to eat," their uncle responded as he paid the surprised waitress. "i have a date," he replied. i looked at him still kind of shocked when he grabbed my hand again and led me out of the restaurant.

"where are we going?" i asked curiously.

"wherever you want to go," mr. mcduck replied. i smiled, anywhere with him was fine by me.

we did not immediately get married, much to everyone else's dismay (including mr. mcduck's). i refused to move back in right away, i made him go on a couple dates with me first. normal dates, nothing insane and expensive and dangerous. and when i finally did move back in i refused to go on all of their crazy adventures, only partaking in a few.

i helped keep the mansion clean but not to the degree i had before, i didn't work there anymore. i couldn't work just anywhere in case i became a target, so i was employed by mr. mcduck again but to clean his office building this time. and of course i kept up tradition with launchpad, he was my best friend.

i found a new place in mr. mcduck's life and the life of his family that i was now officially a part of. i got to watch the triplets and webby grow up, defeat all of the big villains that came our way, and spend every day with the duck that captured my heart.