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emjayewrites · 10 months

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Flashin’ Lights In A Midst of Darlin’ Nights (5/?)

A fated encounter in The City of Lights changed the lives of an actor and singer forever. And with those darlin’ nights comes even more delights.....

Synopsis: Will Poulter can count on his hands the amount of times he’s been rendered speechless, yet that was until he met singer-songwriter EmJaye. He soon finds himself speechless and dazzled every time he’s in her presence. For Mahalia-Joy, Will hooked her in with his quintessentially British banter. However, in this ruthless industry, a couple needs more to hold onto besides quick laughs and simple awe.

Pairings: Will Poulter x EmJaye (Mahalia-Joy Washington)

Warnings: cursing, adult content, mentions of drugs/alcohol, and discussions around sensitive topics (mental/sexual/physical abuse). (Rated 18+)

Taglist: @vargskelegore, @pocfansmatter, @afro-hispwriter, @unfriendlyblkhotti3, @sarcasticmrfox, @blackpearlbutterfly, @melancholymelanin, @mochachocolatteyaya, @goldentriostan, @multi-culti-girl, @chaneajoyyy, @mauvecherie-writes, @4ftwonder, @jasmindaughteroftheworld, @valkryienymph, @colorfullydone, @earl-aive, @queenshikongo3, @blackreaderatrisk, @pulparindos, @cocobutterqwueen, @xsweetdellzx, @certifiedlesbianbaddie, @realhotgurlshit, @aieshawilliams2001, @imatrisk

A/N: I do not know Will or his family personally. This is solely fiction and any similarities are coincidental. EmJaye was previously mentioned in a Yahya fic, but her character arc is completely different/changed to fit this fic. If you would like to be tagged, please comment or DM me. Enjoy this chapter.

P.S. This chapter talks about mental illness as well as sexual abuse, homophobia, and suicidal thoughts. Please read with caution. Also, the pictures used for Will’s home is not his home; just an idea of what it may look like based on previous interviews.

Philadelphia, PA & London, UK — Mid-August 2022

Will: I understand, sweetheart. Sometimes random things come along. I’ll see you next week. 😘

Although she didn't tell a complete lie to Will, she still felt bad about not telling him the whole truth. She's been going to therapy on and off for years, yet she still couldn't shake how uncomfortable it made her whenever she disclosed seeing a psychiatrist. For the last several weeks, EmJaye's mental health has taken a toll, and despite being happy to begin a new relationship, she could feel herself spiraling out of control. Existing in the limelight was never great for her, however, now with the extra unwanted attention from the media and fans, she needed to speak to her therapist.

As she sat nervously in the waiting area of Dr. Patrice Greene's office, her hands gripped the paper bag containing the pastries she had picked up on the way. The weight of the missed sessions hung heavily on her mind as she anticipated the stern conversation that awaited her. She knew she had let her mental health take a backseat lately, and now it was time to face the consequences.

When her name was called, EmJaye took a deep breath and entered Dr. Greene's office. Dr. Patrice Greene, with her distinctive dreadlocks that cascaded down her shoulders, stylish wired-rimmed eyeglasses, and tawny skin that carried gentle reminders of a life well-lived, regarded EmJaye with a stern expression. Dr. Greene, never one to mince words, wasted no time getting to the point.

"Mahalia-Joy, I must say I'm disappointed that you've missed two sessions in a row. You must prioritize your mental health and honor our appointments," Dr. Greene's voice held a firmness that demanded attention.

EmJaye's heart sank, realizing the gravity of her actions. She offered the bag of pastries as a peace offering, a feeble attempt to lighten the mood. "I...I brought you some pastries. I'm sorry for missing the sessions. There were some things I had to take care of."

Dr. Greene accepted the bag with a slight nod and twinkling eyes, but her expression remained the same. "Apologies are not enough, baby girl. You need to take better care of yourself and understand the importance of consistent therapy. Your mental health should be a priority."

EmJaye lowered her gaze, feeling a mix of guilt and gratitude for Dr. Greene's unwavering commitment to her well-being. She knew she needed to make amends and regain control of her mental health journey. "Sorry. It won't happen again."

Warmth overtook Dr. Greene's face and she gave EmJaye a half-smile. Beneath her composed exterior, Dr. Greene was a caring and compassionate individual who had dedicated her life to helping others, and she held a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, always striving to provide the best care possible. She constantly reminded EmJaye of her late grandmother: loyal without fault but with a no-nonsense, straightforward attitude. For the last couple of years, she worked with EmJaye over countless personal issues and helped her heal some childhood traumas, but there was still work that needed to be done.

As the session progressed, Dr. Greene shifted gears, delving into EmJaye's personal life. The topic of her relationship with Will came up, and EmJaye's face lit up with a mix of joy and vulnerability.

"I've been seeing someone; his name is Will," EmJaye began, her voice laced with both excitement and apprehension. "He's incredible, and we've been spending a lot of time together."

Dr. Greene listened attentively, her gaze softening. "That's wonderful to hear, Mahalia. It's important to have someone special in your life. But when do you plan to talk to him about your past, your family?"

EmJaye's expression shifted, a hint of sadness flickering in her eyes. "I...I haven't yet. It's difficult for me to open up about my family."

Her life hasn't been easy in the past five years, or rather, the past decade. These experiences left deep scars on her psyche, influencing her relationships and sense of self. For as long as she could remember, she dealt with a lot: from overcoming mental and sexual abuse from her stepfather, her constant battle with depression, and losing her mother to breast cancer while in college. But perhaps one of the most painful chapters in EmJaye's journey was her estrangement from her older sister, Ayesha. The once close bond they shared had been fractured, and the distance between them seemed insurmountable. Their estrangement stemmed from EmJaye's revelation about her bisexuality, a truth she had embraced with courage and self-acceptance. Unfortunately, her sister's inability to understand and accept her sexual orientation created a painful divide that persisted to this day. If it wasn't for the support she received from her father or her solace in music, EmJaye would've hit rock bottom and probably wouldn't be alive today. She used her art as a form of catharsis and self-expression. Through her music, she could channel her emotions, hopes, and dreams, transforming her pain into something beautiful and healing.

Dr. Greene leaned forward, her voice gentle yet unwavering. "Mahalia, these past traumas and the abuse you endured as a young teen will continue to affect your relationships if left unaddressed. Opening up to Will about your struggles and your history is a vital step toward healing."

EmJaye nodded, tears welling in her eyes. Dr. Greene's words resonated deeply within her, reminding her of the importance of honesty and vulnerability. "I know, Dr. Greene. It's just...difficult."

A few tears ran down her cheeks and Dr. Greene moved from her armchair to take a seat next to EmJaye to wrap a reassuring arm around her shoulders.

"You've been faced with so much in your life already, sweetie, and you never faltered," Dr. Greene smiled, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "From what I've read and seen, Will has been pretty vocal about his own experiences with mental health, and he would be an ideal person to confide in. Don't be afraid to lean on him for support and understanding."

Letting out a light chuckle, EmJaye wiped the tears from her eyes and straightened her posture. "He's good, but sometimes I think that maybe I'm too fucked up to be with him, y'know?"

"Mahalia, you and I both know that that's bullshit," admitted Dr. Greene with a dismissive wave, causing EmJaye to scoff. "You're not fucked up, not in the slightest. You cannot let your past define you. You've been through something horrible as a teenager, but you've been working hard on getting stronger. If a man can't understand that, then honey, he is not for you, but I think Will understands and this will bring y'all closer."

The session continued, with EmJaye delving into the complexities of her emotions, the burdens she carried, and the challenges she faced. Dr. Greene provided guidance and reassurance, reminding EmJaye of her strength and resilience. As the session drew to a close, Dr. Greene made one thing clear: EmJaye's commitment to her therapy was non-negotiable. Whether in-person or virtual, she must prioritize her mental health and continue the journey of healing, for herself and for the relationships that mattered most.

EmJaye left the office with a mixture of emotions. The journey toward healing and self-discovery wouldn't be easy, but with the support of Dr. Greene and the prospect of sharing her truth with Will, EmJaye felt a newfound strength within herself.

______________________________________________________________

Inside EmJaye's expansive loft, the warm glow of the ambient lighting filled the air, casting a cozy atmosphere over the modern-bohemian space. The room was adorned with an eclectic mix of furniture and artwork, creating a vibrant and inviting ambiance. The vaulted ceilings soared overhead, adding a sense of grandeur to the loft, while the wraparound balcony provided a picturesque view of Philadelphia's skyline.

A couple of suitcases, half-filled and strewn about, added an element of anticipation and preparation to the scene. The sound of zippers opening and closing resonated through the loft, intermingling with the soft melodies of Brent Faiyaz's latest album that played from the speakers.

EmJaye stood near her open suitcase, her brows furrowing in concentration as she meticulously folded her garments, ensuring they fit neatly into the limited space.

Imani, her longtime friend and ex-girlfriend, lounged on the couch nearby, a cheeky smile playing on her lips. She watched EmJaye with an amused glint in her eyes, her fingers tapping playfully against her knee.

"You know, Mahalia, it's hilarious to think about you and this new guy, Will," Imani teased, her voice filled with playful skepticism. "I mean, who would have thought that you, this fiercely independent soul, would go for a White guy? It's like a plot twist in a movie!"

EmJaye rolled her eyes, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She knew Imani's teasing was all in good fun. Their brief romantic fling had taught them that they were better off as friends, and EmJaye was genuinely happy for Imani and her engagement to one of her backup singers.

"Well, Imani, love knows no boundaries," EmJaye replied, a touch of amusement lacing her voice. "And besides, Will is different. He's kind, understanding, and he gets me."

Imani raised an eyebrow, her playful demeanor still intact. "Oh, I see. He gets you, huh? That's a pretty big deal. So, what's the plan? Are you two gonna make it official?"

EmJaye paused for a moment, a mixture of uncertainty and excitement dancing in her eyes. "I don't know. We're taking things slow, enjoying each other's company. Right now, I'm just happy being with him."

Imani let out an exaggerated scoff, shaking her head in disagreement. "Please, you're spending an entire month at his place in London. Trust me, by the time you come back, you two will be a full-fledged couple."

"You and your wild predictions," EmJaye laughed, shaking her head in disbelief. "We'll see what happens."

As EmJaye resumed packing her clothes, Imani's eyes sparkled mischievously. She reached over to the nearby dresser and plucked out a lacy black lingerie set, holding it up for EmJaye to see.

"Come on, girl. You've gotta bring some spice to your London adventure. Don't leave this behind," Imani insisted, wiggling the lingerie enticingly.

EmJaye blushed, a mixture of surprise and reluctance crossing her face. "Imani, seriously? I don't think I need..."

Imani interrupted her by sucking her teeth and rolling her eyes dramatically. "Trust me, you never know what might happen. And besides, it's time to step out of your comfort zone. Live a little, damn! You tellin' me that you gonna spend all that time with him and nothing happens?"

EmJaye hesitated for a moment, her eyes flickering between Imani and the lingerie. Finally, she let out a soft chuckle, giving in to her friend's persuasive charm. "Alright, Imani. Fine. I'll bring them. But don't say I didn't warn you if they end up collecting dust in the back of my suitcase."

Imani grinned triumphantly, tossing the lingerie into the suitcase with a flourish. "That's the spirit! You gotta show that boy your goodies!" She added a slap to EmJaye's ass for a dramatic effect, which earned her a scowl. "Don't look at me like that 'cause you know I'm right. Judging by the pictures from The Shade Room, you got that poor White boy strung already."

At the mere mention of The Shade Room, EmJaye sighed exasperatedly. As usual, The Shade Room was bringing an unnecessary debate on her and other people's love lives, not to mention the many ignorant and cruel comments that followed. From the rude discourse around Will's looks and the fact that he was White as well as her being bisexual, everyone seems to have an opinion on their burgeoning relationship.

"They can fuckin' go to Hell for all I care," she seethed as she zipped up her suitcase. "I don't understand why people care so much. It doesn't concern them, so why they tryna give their two cents?"

"Girl, you know that people are obsessed with you right?" Imani retorted with a look. "So you know that they finna say somethin'."

She shuddered at Imani's reminder of her too many close encounters with obsessed fans. Fortunately for her, she didn't have any stalkers, but that doesn't mean that her fans, especially the male ones, can be quite weird and creepy at times. "It's weird as fuck though."

"I know," Imani said, nodding her head. "People always go crazy for a chick that has a nice body and face. Shit, you put that with a good voice and now you have chaos. The good thing is, we are taking precautions and if Andre doesn't say anything then we're straight."

Andre, EmJaye's dedicated head of security, diligently monitored her online presence to ensure that things didn't escalate out of control. Having been a part of EmJaye's security team for almost two years, Andre understood the importance of safeguarding her well-being. While they had successfully thwarted a few stalking attempts, EmJaye worried that going public with her relationship with Will might attract a new wave of obsessed fans. She had shared her concerns with Will, who, in turn, relayed them to his team, ensuring they implemented additional safety measures.

EmJaye's gaze shifted to the clock on her wall, and her eyes widened with realization. "Oh, shit! I'm running late!" she exclaimed, the urgency evident in her voice.

Without wasting another moment, EmJaye and Imani sprang into action. They rushed through the loft, grabbing the remaining suitcases and loading them into the waiting car downstairs. The melodies of Brent Faiyaz's album faded as they made their way to the car, replaced by the sound of hurried footsteps echoing in the stairwell.

She double-checked her belongings and wrapped Imani in one last hug.

“I’ll lock up everything for you,” Imani said as they parted. EmJaye muttered her gratitude and hopped in the SUV, closing the door behind her. “Go be a thot!”

Imani’s words caused her to shake her head at her antics. The engine roared to life and EmJaye buckled herself in, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

As her driver sped towards the airport, EmJaye's mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions. Thoughts of her upcoming London adventure, her budding romance with Will, and the chaotic world of fame clashed within her. But amidst it all, there was a glimmer of excitement and determination to seize the opportunities that awaited her across the ocean.

The city lights of Philadelphia blurred as they whizzed past, and the airport loomed in the distance, a beacon of possibility and new beginnings. EmJaye took a deep breath to center herself, a coping mechanism she constantly used to calm her anxiety. With her baggage in tow, she headed for her gate, boarding the plane by the skin of her teeth.

Soon, the plane lifted off the ground, piercing through the darkness of the night sky, carrying EmJaye towards new experiences and the unknown chapters of her life yet to be written.

London, here she comes.

_______________________________________________________________

Almost ten hours later, EmJaye’s plane arrived in London around lunchtime. As expected, Will met her at the airport, greeting her with a hug and a kiss. After finding all of her luggage in the baggage claim, the couple headed out to Will’s car in the parking lot, and he drove off in the direction of his home in East London.

"Welcome home," Will said, his voice filled with warmth and affection as he opened the front door. He stepped forward, gently taking hold of one of EmJaye's suitcases. With a gentle nod and a reassuring smile, Will led the way, guiding EmJaye over the threshold and into the welcoming embrace of his home. Will maneuvered skillfully through the hallway, placing all three of her suitcases near the entry closet then averted his attention onto her as she took everything in.

“It’s not what I expected,” noted EmJaye as her eyes widened in wonder, immediately struck by the unique blend of industrial and modern design that enveloped the space. “To be honest, I thought you lived in some bachelor pad apartment in the middle of the city, but this....”

His eyebrow arched as her words trailed off. “Yeah?”

She shifted her eyes onto him and smiled widely. “So much better. It fits you.”

Will couldn't help but notice how radiant EmJaye looked, even after a long day of travel. Her off-the-shoulder knit top and matching shorts accentuated her natural beauty, effortlessly hugging her curves in all the right places. Her hair was pulled back in a low bun, revealing the graceful curve of her neck. To his pleasant surprise, EmJaye was wearing glasses, framing her eyes in a way he hadn't seen before. The absence of makeup allowed her true features to shine through, revealing a raw and authentic beauty that captivated him just as much as her glamorous looks.

“This used to be a school,” Will informs EmJaye as he strode towards her, his gait slow and steady. “That’s the original staircase.”

Her gaze roamed across the room, taking in the main staircase. The striking centerpiece stood proud with its rugged construction of concrete and brick. It served as a reminder of the building's rich history, now reimagined as a focal point within Will’s contemporary home.

“No, shit, really?” she asked in astonishment. “That’s so cool.”

Taking her hand into his, Will steered her to the stairs. “I’ll give you a tour.”

As EmJaye followed Will through the rest of the house, she discovered more captivating features that highlighted the fusion of industrial and modern styles. The open-concept living area boasted large floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing an abundance of natural light to flood the space. The walls, painted in soft neutral tones, provided a canvas for vintage artwork and photographs.

The kitchen, though compact, exhibited a sleek and minimalist design. Stainless steel appliances glistened against the backdrop of dark, matte cabinets, creating a striking juxtaposition. The concrete countertops added a touch of industrial chic, while pendant lights hanging above the kitchen island emitted a warm glow, adding a hint of intimacy to the space. Throughout the house, EmJaye noticed carefully chosen furniture and decor that complemented the industrial/modern theme. Clean lines, minimalist shapes, and a mix of metal, wood, and leather materials blended harmoniously. The polished concrete floors, while cold to the touch, added an edgy and contemporary vibe.

When they concluded the tour on the upper-level floor of his house, Will stood at the landing of another staircase.

"These stairs go up to the rooftop garden," Will pointed out, motioning towards the staircase. "Unfortunately, there's a thunderstorm coming, so it might not be the best time to check it out. But you can still catch a glimpse of it through the skylight."

EmJaye's expression turned into a slight frown upon hearing about the impending bad weather. She had been curious about the roof terrace, but it seemed like she would have to wait for another opportunity. Leaning over the railing, she looked upward and indeed caught a small view of the rooftop. She noticed the wooden plant boxes brimming with lush greenery. "Interesting. I wouldn't have pegged you as a gardener."

Will shrugged casually. "I try my best to keep them alive. My mum is a real gardening expert. She has a beautiful collection of flowers and vegetables in her garden."

"Oh, so she lives nearby, right?" EmJaye recalled Will mentioning that his mother's home wasn't too far from his own.

"Yeah, my parents reside in West London, specifically in Hammersmith. It's about a forty-five-minute drive from here."

Curiosity sparked in EmJaye's eyes as she asked, "Do they know I'm here?"

Will chuckled and crossed his arms, a playful grin forming on his lips. "Are you eager to meet them, sweetheart?"

EmJaye let out a mock scoff, rolling her eyes in jest. "No, no, no. I can wait for that. I was just wondering if you've mentioned me to them or anyone else, really. I'm just trying to figure out how we're handling all of this."

Her nerves began to surface as she hugged herself, a subtle gesture revealing her underlying apprehension. She averted her gaze, avoiding direct eye contact with Will. They were still in the early stages of their relationship, and though EmJaye enjoyed their time together, she couldn't help but wonder about Will's intentions and where his head was at regarding them.

Her mind buzzed with questions and uncertainties, creating a subtle tension in the air. She wanted to delve deeper, to understand the depth of their connection, but she also feared pushing too hard and potentially jeopardizing what they had. EmJaye hoped for more, for something meaningful, but she also respected the delicate nature of their budding romance. As they stood there, the anticipation and unspoken questions lingered between them, both aware of the uncharted territory they were traversing. EmJaye longed for clarity, for a glimpse into Will's thoughts and feelings. Yet, she understood that these things took time and that they needed to let their connection grow naturally.

With a deep breath, Will mustered the courage to break the uneasy silence. “If I’m not mistaken, we’re dating exclusively. We’ve been spending a lot of time together.” At this, EmJaye nodded in concurrence, urging him to continue. “I mean, I’m not seeing anyone else and I don’t think you aren’t either, are you?”

“No.”

The corners of his mouth turned into a sly grin. “Do you want me to call you my girlfriend? Because I have no problem doing so.”

EmJaye laughed at him, shaking her head. “No, it’s fine, really. I don’t want to rush things even though I’m literally shacking up with you for two months.” She inwardly scoffed at herself at the brevity of the situation.

“Two months?” Will said sotto voce. “Just admit that you’re obsessed with me.”

“Slight change of plans,” she added with a dismissive wave. “Besides, you’re obsessed with me. Do I need to remind you about all the things you’ve said and done when we were in San Diego? The ‘I can’t get enough of you’ or ‘You’re like a fuckin’ drug’? Not to mention the constant kissing and touching and—”

Without warning, he closed the distance between them, capturing EmJaye's lips in a passionate kiss. The world around them momentarily faded away as the intensity of their connection took hold.

Pulling away slightly, Will looked deep into her eyes, his voice filled with sincerity. "Mahalia, you have nothing to worry about. I'm attracted to you, not just physically, but everything about you. I'm serious about pursuing you, about us."

His words resonated with EmJaye, washing away her apprehension and doubts. A sense of relief and comfort washed over her as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. "Will, I feel the same way. It's just... I don't want to mess things up."

He caressed her cheek with his thumb, his gaze filled with tenderness. "We'll figure it out together. No rush, no pressure. Just us, taking it one step at a time."

A soft smile played on EmJaye's lips as she leaned in, capturing his mouth in another lingering kiss. Their lips melded together in a dance of longing and the weight of their unspoken feelings was conveyed in the intensity of their connection. EmJaye's hands found their way to the back of Will's neck, her fingers tangling in his hair as she deepened the kiss, seeking a deeper connection. Will's arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer, their bodies pressed against each other in an electrifying embrace. The softness of her lips against his sent a surge of warmth through his veins, igniting a fire within him that only she could quench. Their tongues intertwined in a passionate rhythm. Eventually, they broke apart, their breaths mingling in the air as they gazed into each other's eyes, their faces flushed with desire.

“To answer your question from earlier, yes; my parents know about you and my siblings. Mum has a Google alert on her phone, unfortunately, and she called me about it,” he revealed to her. “My friends also know about you too.”

“And?” she questioned, eyebrows furrowed in pique interest. “Do they hate me or not?”

“Sweetheart, I’m sure no one hates you,” he says as he placed a kiss on her temple. “And if they do, they’re idiots. But no, they don’t dislike you. Mum says you’re really pretty and seem like a nice young woman, which I agree with. My friends are the same way. You’ll get to meet them in a couple of weeks. I’m hosting a barbeque here.”

“All of them?” she asked, incredulously.

“Majority of them; those who can make if they can. You’ll be fine, sweetheart. There’s nothing to worry about.”

EmJaye couldn't help but feel nervous at the thought of meeting Will's friends. The idea of being introduced to a whole new circle of people made her slightly uneasy, but she knew that it was a significant step in their relationship. Besides, she was eager to explore London, a city she had visited before, but she now had the chance to fully immerse herself in its culture and spend quality time with Will.

TO BE CONTINUED....

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