strong enough [crossover]

xx. of course, it doesn't do wood

trigger warning(s): none

*

The next day, Bill joins them once again for breakfast. Once they're all done eating, MJ claps her hands together. "So, what's the agenda for today? I think I'm ready for an adventure."

"No adventures today, I'm afraid," the Doctor says. "I told Bill I'd help her move, but we wanted to make sure you were okay first."

"I can help you move," MJ says almost indignantly. "I'm a lot stronger than I look, you know."

"Oh, I know," Bill laughs. "And I'd love the help if you're up for it."

MJ lights up. "Of course, I'm up for it! I just have to get dressed."

"Go ahead," the Doctor says. "We'll do the cleaning up."

"It's still weird to me that you guys live in here," Bill says as MJ gets up.

"Where else would we live?" MJ asks, frowning.

Bill shrugs, getting up too. "I dunno. In like, a flat or something. Maybe a house. I can see you two owning a house with like, a nice yard and lots of knickknacks. And you'd have a cat, of course."

"Oh, I have always wanted a cat," MJ admits. "Or just any pet, really."

Bill tilts her head. "Well, don't you—"

"Spoilers!" the Doctor and Nardole shout, startling both Bill and MJ.

"Shit, sorry," Bill says with a wince. She looks back at MJ. "Do you want help dressing for 2017? The Doctor mentioned you just came from 2006, so."

"I would love help picking out an outfit!" MJ gushes. "And judging by what you're wearing, I'm in good hands."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," Bill declares, linking arms. As she and MJ leave the kitchen, she calls over her shoulder with a cheeky grin, "Have fun cleaning you two!"

MJ narrows her eyes, suppressing a smirk. "Did you just use me to get out of helping clean up?"

"Oh, absolutely," Bill says. "But also the prospect of the MJ Winslow needing my fashion advice was too exciting to pass up."

MJ laughs. "You know what, Bill? I think we're going to get along splendidly."

*

In the end, they decide on light-wash high-waist jeans, a colorful striped short-sleeve shirt, and a pair of mustard yellow Converse that MJ embroidered with flowers a few years ago. MJ ties her hair back in a low ponytail. She finishes the look with her beloved Snoopy watch, her camp necklace, and, as always, her sword-and-shield ring.

Before they leave her room, MJ examines herself in her floor-length mirror — more specifically, her new scars. They're much subtler than she'd expected. It looks like she got them years ago instead of, well, yesterday. Though, if they're in 2017, then technically speaking MJ did get them years ago. She runs her fingers along the scars on her neck, her lips curling into a smile. Gods, she looks badass.

"You really are so stupidly beautiful," Bill comments as they head to the console room. "It's a bit infuriating, to be honest."

"My sincerest apologies," MJ jokes. "I'll try to be less conventionally attractive from now on."

"I'd really appreciate that, thanks."

The Doctor is waiting for them on one of the black chairs, drawing in a pocket-sized leather-bound sketchbook. When he notices them come in, he jumps to his feet and shoves the sketchbook into his pocket. "All ready to go?"