first anniversary | dieter x poppy
A Sweet Creature
Ava Greene sits down with actor and friend, Dieter Bravo. Hollywood’s new leading man gets candid about life in front of and behind the camera. He talks about his latest movie, his commitment to his sobriety and his newest role— husband?!
Ava Greene: You're approaching three years sober now, how are you feeling?
Dieter Bravo: Probably the best I’ve felt in a long time. Sobriety is a day to day progression that I take very seriously, and I try to not lose sight of that even when I’m having bad days. Though, I’m grateful bad days have been few and far between at this point in my sobriety. I can attribute that to the support system I have built for myself through friends, family, my sponsor that I still work with and most importantly my wife who keeps me grounded daily. They all continue to keep me in check and remind me how awesome my life is, especially right now. Staying clean is a full time commitment, and it’s really a beautiful thing.
AG: You followed in your famous parents footsteps by going into acting and your career and struggles with sobriety have been well documented but your parents have rarely commented publicly, are they supportive of your work and your journey?
DB: For me, I don’t need them to make a show of it by commenting or sharing their thoughts publicly to know they support me. There was a point in time where they did all they could do for me, but ultimately it had to be my choice to make the decision to get clean. Thankfully, we’ve been rebuilding our relationship over the last few years. And being in the public eye for most of our lives, the last thing we want is for outsiders thinking they have a say in our lives. In short, yes I have very supportive parents in all aspects of my life and I’m so happy for that.
AG: This is your second project since rehab, are you viewing this as a comeback or a fresh start?
DB: Comeback? I didn’t know I left… Kidding! Sure, some might say it’s a comeback. A fresh start. Whatever analogy best fits the narrative is fine by me— and I don’t mean that negatively in any sense. I mean, you’ve known me long enough to know I just try not to focus on any of that stuff, messes with my fucking brain waves. I just see it as me doing what I love with a new perspective and a different approach to choosing what projects I’m going to give my time to than I have in the past.
AG: What can you tell us about this project and the character you're playing?
DB: I had the best f*ckin’ time while shooting this film— sorry, but the emphasis was needed. I was really drawn to the vibrancy that this script evoked, even with the serious nature of the storyline and characters. I couldn’t stop thinking or talking about for weeks afterwards. I’d sit with my wife at breakfast and we’d discuss the script and my character for what felt like hours. I knew after I heard her feedback that I needed to be apart of this film— she might have said I’d be stupid to say no to it, in her own loving way.
The film is really about the process of rediscovering yourself. Navigating the challenges that come along with being at your lowest point and leaning on the ones who have been there for you. It’s about finding love in its purest form when you never thought you were deserving of it.
I found bits of myself in this character as we were filming, it was very much a cathartic experience for me. I guess you could say it was art imitating life in a weird way.
AG: There's already been some buzz about this year's award season, do you think this is finally your year?
DB: Ooooh! Is it too presumptuous for me to say yes?! I’ve started dusting the spot where I plan for it to go. I sound like some sort of pompous idiot! Now no one is going to go see it!*
I take it back!
In all seriousness, ‘cause I’m sure Poppy and my agent will be rolling their eyes when they read this. If all I get is a couple nominations, that alone feels like winning. A shiny statue would be nice though— just saying.
AG: You've talked often about your love of art and you recently purchased a gallery. Are you planning to publicly pursue other creative endeavors?
DB: I won’t be joining American Idol anytime soon if that’s what you’re asking. Oh, you weren’t referring to my ability to hold a note during our many karaoke nights— noted!
How did you put it? Other creative endeavors? I’ve got a few art pieces in the works right now that I’m itching to dive back into when I get home. I’ve got a major gallery in LA lined up later in the year for an artist spotlight exhibit, they’ll be housing some of my work through the next year. Shoutout to my wife for getting that all lined up while I was away shooting this film.
AG: What's next for Dieter Bravo? Any other projects lined up you can tell us about?
DB: I’m looking forward to some downtime I have coming up. Poppy has the summer off, so we’ll get to finally live that newlywed life. Settle into the role of doting husband while she does her thing at the gallery.
AG: Off the record, if you got married and didn't tell anyone I will kick yours and Poppy’s ass!
DB: We’re celebrating our one year this month actually. We eloped quietly last year right after we got engaged— wanted to keep it to ourselves for a little while. Which reminds me, you and Bryony should hop on a call with Poppy after this. Seeing as I let the cat out of the bag and this is our announcement— surprise!
Huge shoutout out to @gnpwdrnwhiskey for allowing me to borrow her Ava from Conversations with a Movie Star for this. Ava was so gracious and even wrote the questions herself. I’m so grateful for Lellen and all her support and advice she had given me throughout the writing process of Sweet Creature!
Sweet Creature Celebration
67 notes
·
View notes
Sharing our love
PAIRING || Boyfriend!Chris Evans x Girlfriend!Fem!Reader
WORDCOUNT || 1.6K
SUMMARY || You've been dating the famous actor Chris Evans for a few months, and after a soft launch of your relationship, it's finally time for him to announce it to the world.
RATING || Teen (T)
TAGS || RPF. Use of Y/N. Established relationship. Chris is in love.
A/N || This one-shot is based on a request I received from the sweet @cevansbaby-dove! I want to thank @ccbsrmsf1 for the support while I wrote this story and for proofreading it once it was finished. It means the world to me! 🩵
EVENTS
Masterlist || @sweetspicybingo || Hand holding
GIF: Source || Graphics are made by @nicoline1998enilocin
Main Masterlist || Chris Evans Masterlist
Today, on your six-month anniversary with the renowned Marvel actor Chris Evans, you're on the brink of a significant milestone- the soft launch of your relationship. The thrill of keeping your love a secret was exciting in the early months, but now, the time has come to share your joy with the world, a moment that fills you with excitement and nervous anticipation.
"Are you ready for me to post it?" Chris asks as you sit on the beach beside him, barefoot and enjoying the beautiful sunset, giving him instructions on editing the photo you decided to use.
"Absolutely," you say as you look at him with a love-filled gaze, your heart beating faster as he smiles while meeting your eyes. Before doing anything else, he puts the phone down in the sand and carefully cups your cheek, his thumb running over the blushing flesh.
"I love you, Bubba," he whispers as he looks deep into your eyes, and you smile at his words.
"I love you too, Chris," you whisper, your voice filled with the depth of your feelings, before letting him capture your lips in a soft, promising kiss that leaves you breathless. This kiss, so full of love and promise, is a testament to the strong emotional connection you share. You feel yourself melting into your boyfriend's touch as he takes the lead, further proof of your deep bond. You two remain in this intimate embrace, sharing more kisses and whispered love confessions until the sun is almost completely gone.
'Weren't you supposed to post that photo by now?' you ask Chris with a playful wink. The photo, a candid shot of the two of you kissing, perfectly captures the joy and love in your relationship. He blushes before quickly grabbing his phone and opening Instagram again, the photo still there as he prepares to post it to his Instagram story.
'One, two, three!' he says as he hits 'post,' before he knows it, the photo is officially uploaded to his Instagram story, ready for the entire world to know about you two. 'There it is,' he says, his voice filled with excitement and nervousness. 'Our soft launch. Are you ready for this, Bubba?' he asks, his eyes searching yours for reassurance.
'I can't wait to see how everyone reacts,' you admit, your voice filled with excitement and apprehension. Chris mirrors your sentiment with a nod, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. The thought of the world knowing about your love is both thrilling and nerve-wracking, but you're ready to face it together.
"Me too, but I feel they're all going to love you, Bubba. Though not as much as I do," he says with a cheeky smile, making you laugh loudly.
The initial reaction from his fans has been overwhelmingly positive, with countless comments expressing love and support. Rumors about who you could be have been swirling, adding an element of mystery to the soft launch. Not even two days after the launch, Chris was invited to a talk show to discuss them, and he happily agreed.
"How're you feeling, Bubba?" Chris asks when you're both backstage. He just got dressed, and his hair is now done before the show while you're seated beside him with your hand in his.
"Nervous but excited," you answer him honestly, your voice trembling slightly. The anticipation is palpable, a mix of fear and exhilaration swirling throughout your belly. A few days ago, no one even knew Chris was in a relationship, to begin with, and today, he's about to share with the world that you two are dating.
"Me too," he tells you before bringing your hand to his mouth and kissing your knuckles softly to calm you down. Your other hand is constantly smoothing the fabric of your outfit , a nervous habit you've had since you were a child, to calm the nerves you're feeling.
"It's going to be okay; everyone will love you," he says, and you nod. After that, it's officially time for you to go and sit in the audience, as it's almost time for Chris to go on stage and talk about it all. Once you've found your seat, you feel like everyone's staring at you, though you realistically know it's not true.
As the anticipation in the room builds, it's finally time for Chris to step onto the stage. The host's voice resonates through the hall, introducing the man of the hour.
"Please give a big round of applause for Captain America himself: Chris Evans!" he says, and a door slides open, revealing Chris on the other side with a broad smile as he waves at everyone, his eyes searching for you. The sound of the applause fills the room, and the bright lights make the stage feel like a spotlight just for him.
However, he's already saying hi to the host before he finds you, leaving him a little sad, but he doesn't show it. Instead, he goes with whatever question he's being asked.
"So, Chris, I think everyone has seen this photo by now," the host says as he holds up the photo of your soft launch. Your boyfriend's expression immediately changes into one of love and pure happiness, and a giant smile appears at the sight of you.
That's when he looks into the audience again, and almost immediately, his eyes cross yours, and he winks to let you know he's found you. A blush creeps onto your cheeks, and your heart skips a beat as he looks away again, but you have never felt happier.
"I can only assume they have, yes! This was taken a few days ago when I was at the beach with the most wonderful woman I've ever met. She's also very loving, kind, and amazing with dogs!" Chris says, making everyone laugh loudly. He nods as he lets the moment sink in with everyone.
"And is there anything else you can share about the lovely woman? Her name, for example?" the host asks. Chris glances your way for one last approval, and you nod reassuringly.
"Her name is Y/N Y/L/N, and I have been very fortunate to call her my girlfriend for the past six months," Chris says proudly before looking over at you again, unable to keep his eyes off you.
"And how did you two meet?"
"It's very simple: Y/N is an amazing private chef - and I'm not just saying this because I love her - and she was cooking a wonderful dinner for my brother, Scott, when he was hosting a party about a year ago. For me, it was love at first sight, and I've never looked back since," Chris tells everyone, and you can't stop smiling.
"And did you bring her with you tonight, or is she watching from home?"
"She's here. Do you want to meet her?" your boyfriend asks, his voice filled with excitement. The entire audience goes wild with his question, giving you the answer. Before you know it, you're being brought on stage, and Chris practically runs over to you as you enter.
"Hi, Bubba," he says as he kisses you in front of everyone without care. Now that everyone knows about the two of you, he wants to show it off as much as possible.
"Hi," you say shyly before Chris interlaces his fingers with yours, leading you to the couch where he was just seated.
"So, you're the famous Y/N? It's very nice to meet you," the host says, and you two exchange a few pleasantries before you get asked a few questions about your relationship with Chris, too.
"How was it to meet Dodger for the first time?"
"It was the cutest thing! When I met Dodger, Chris and I weren't together yet, but we decided to go for a walk on the beach, followed by a picnic for one of our first dates, and he brought Dodger along. While he was a little apprehensive at first, he quickly approved of me, and now we're here!" you tell everyone, and Chris is looking at you with nothing but love as you tell the story.
You glance over at Chris, and he smiles at you, a shimmer of love in his eyes. You couldn't have wished for a happier moment to announce your love to the world.
"I want to thank you both for your time, and this is the ending of our episode! Please give a last round of applause to Chris Evans and Y/N Y/L/N," the host says before officially ending the episode, and you let out a sigh of relief.
"C'mere, Bubba," Chris says as he pulls you into a tight hug in the middle of the stage, his face buried in your hair while your hands rub his back soothingly.
With the secret finally out, a mix of joy and relief washes over you both. The world now knows about your love, and you're ready to face whatever comes your way, hand in hand with Chris.
"I love you so much," you say before standing on your tiptoes to kiss him softly.
"I love you too, Bubba, "Chris whispers, his voice filled with adoration. "And thank you for being here with me tonight. I couldn't have done it without you." He seals his words with a tender kiss, a testament to the love you share, before you both step off the stage and head home.
The reactions to your shared interview have been overwhelmingly positive, and you can't stop scrolling through the responses as you're curled against your boyfriend's side in his bed. That night, you two have some of the best sleep you've endured in a long time now that the hiding is over.
50 notes
·
View notes
can you explain that character to me :3
OMG ANON sorry for the super late reply
Originally when I got this ask I was planning on talking about Kaiser ( since he’s the character I’m most insane about) but more specifically some ideas for his backstory
But then the leaks for chapter 260 came out that actually had his backstory in it
So I was super distracted with that and forgot about this
But then the leaks for chapter 261 came out and now that we almost have all the pieces I think it’s time I answer this :)
Kaiser Kaiser Kaiser … where do I even begin
Since chapter 260 and 261 it makes understanding Kaiser so much easier
I already touched on how Kaiser feels about physical touch here and here but what about emotional intimacy?
Well Kaiser definitely does not take kindness well
It’s a foreign concept to him
Which makes sense since Kaiser has never felt the warmth of love from anyone before
His mother was said to have left him shortly after his birth and we all seen the way his father was acting
And it’s obvious Ray Dark didn’t really try to act much
Kaiser jumped straight into the idea of manipulating someone to be his teammate instead of you know .. being kind to people
Now here comes the hard question. Does Kaiser actually care for Ness
I think yes . In Kaiser’s very own way deep down he does
Did Kaiser’s and Ness’s relationship start out fake? Definitely but I think over time Kaiser grew fond of Ness
Unless Kaiser is a great actor like his mom i doubt that he can fake a genuine smile like this
And then there’s this scene
Could Kaiser be lying through his teeth to better manipulate Ness? While that could be a possibility I doubt it
But what the hell does Kaiser mean when he says he was a mentally weak person?
Does Kaiser mean that when he was still a child?the youngest I can see Kaiser being here is 17 and we didn’t see him struggle like that in the early panels chapter 261
Almost all the times Kaiser’s dad has ever acknowledged him was either with physical or verbal abuse so it makes sense that’s the way Kaiser would respond to the closest person he has to him 
Ness was born into a family that didn’t give that much of a shit to him . His siblings bully him for just being a child for just being himself while his parents turn him a blind eye to it and call Ness the childish one 
Ah yes because how dare a child have a imagination how dare a kid to have childhood wonder
That’s probably the reason why Ness is so attached to Kaiser … he’s probably Ness’s first closest friend..
That’s why Ness panicked when Kaiser was giving more attention to Isagi of all people
It’s interesting to see all the different ways abuse can affect a person. Kaiser is such a complex and fascinating character
This isn’t all of my thoughts about him but I don’t want this to get too long and I want those thoughts to be their own posts
Anyways. Kaiser therapy arc when?
22 notes
·
View notes
I loved Season 3 of Bridgerton so much
I loved Colin and Penelope's romance, how it was evident she was still in love with him and yet was trying to be practical. Not to mention the fact that he was down bad after one (1) kiss, like she got him good with that one! Also, love the fact that Colin was trying to get Penelope to not be herself and yet it was by being herself that she attracted Debling (decent guy through and through, low key thinking him and Cressida might be a good match) and Colin's jealousy was phenomenal, just the yearning, amazing. And of course, the carriage scene, damn did it deliver or what.
I loved seeing Francesca in a more prominent role and I'm so pleased with Hannah's portrayal. I was a little worried that it wouldn't feel like Francesca but she just nailed it. Francesca and John were so cute together, just sitting there silently confusing the hell out of the Bridgertons.
I enjoyed Violet immensely this season. I'm so glad that the writers are showing how she has learned from previous seasons, especially with Eloise and her role in society. I think Violet isn't entirely sure how best to help Francesca because she is quite different from Violet herself and from her own sisters, but it was evident from the scene of Francesca playing the sheet music that John got her that Violet recognises how happy he makes Francesca. Violet also clued on about Colin's predicament very quickly, thank goodness otherwise we would have needed another 5 years for Colin to work up the courage to tell Penelope his feelings. Ruth Gemmell really shone in her scenes where she was advising any of her children, but particularly with Colin, amazing, no notes.
I adored the scenes between Marcus Anderson and Violet. They had a really palpable chemistry, but they aren't going to fast with it, which I appreciate, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how their story continues to develop into Part 2. Ruth Gemmell really made it feel realistic with the small hope of more while still primarily focusing on her children and not getting carried away too quickly.
Queen Charlotte was phenomenal this season alongside Lady Danbury. They've really played into the friendship that was established in QC: ABS which was a wonderful call because these two actors are amazing together. I only wished we had gotten more Lady Danbury and Penelope scenes, to establish that relationship, but perhaps it will come in Part 2.
Marcus Anderson is an enigma, especially with whatever happened between him and Lady Danbury, I really hope he is as good a guy as he comes across as, because him and Violet have really got something cute going on. Also, Lady Danbury can either keep her mouth shut about it, or be confronted by Violet about loving her dad. Lady Danbury really doesn't have a leg to stand on here.
Eloise, this season, made perfect sense to me. She is finally starting to embrace a little of what the Season can offer and I wasn't expecting to like her and Cressida's friendship at all, but it does seem to have helped Eloise a little, especially after her falling out with Penelope. I'm pleased they didn't go for the outright villain route of her revealing Whistledown even accidentally. I think by the end of the season Eloise and Penelope will hopefully be friends again, or at least something nearing it, because while Cressida has helped Eloise, it is clear the Eloise's morals feel a bit torn about this due to Cressida's actions, particularly towards Penelope.
It was interesting to see more of Cressida this season and some of the pressure she finds herself under due to her family. I also appreciate that the writers are like we'll explain why she does it, but it doesn't excuse her actions.
I think the Featheringtons continue to be comedic relief, which is highly entertaining. The Featheringtons may not be my favourite family and their treatment of Penelope is reproachable but when it is just Portia, Prudence and Phillipa, the entertainment is amazing. Polly Walker, particularly, did amazingly in her scenes.
I'm not sure how to feel about Benedict and Lady Tilley Arnold, it felt a little unnecessary for Benedict to fall into bed with another person and Lady Tilley certainly seems to be questionable in some way, especially with her lawyer.
I liked seeing the Mondrich's, even if it felt like their story was a little unnecessary. Like we've had stories about trying to fit in society, I feel like the writers could have used the time to explore the other stories they had, but I didn't dislike their scenes.
22 notes
·
View notes
Chapter 3 of down the rabbit hole
Chapter one here , two here
MDNI
Pairing: Walton Goggins x You
Rating/warnings? IDK: Will just keep mature okay. Minors get out. Heavy mention of alcohol, blackouts, drunken shenanigans, hints at SA, awkwardness,
Slow build like novel damn length okay, Very Fluffy, Pinch of Angst, Relationship Development, Hurt/Comfort, Older man/ Younger(30s) women, Alternative universe, fictional work (IDK WHY BUT I AM PUTTING IT) Probably more as I go.
Synopsis: Working in film as a make-up artist is hard enough, but then Walton Goggins requests you, well it's way too easy to fall down the rabbit hole.
Note: they are both single, all for fun.
WARNING I do not have this all written out, I do have it plotted out, but it may be a little slower for chapters to come out. Please bear with me. If you know a Beta to edit please send them to me.
Thank you all for the support! This gets cute and flirty. Let me know what you think.
***
The bar is a hole-in-the-wall place, with the fifteen or so crew and four actors the place is packed. It’s laid out with a bar at the front, couches, and comfortable chairs in the back. You find a spot closer to the back, a gin and tonic in hand. Trevor is talking with Decon at the front, the two men are practically making out. You chuckle and sip your drink. Rebecca from Costumes sits beside you, the woman is all fluid grace.
“Hey, how’s it going?” She smiles and sips her drink, short hair with sides buzzed, various botanical tattoos draping down her shoulder. Piercing brown eyes and a soft face that always had a small smile. She was draped in all black, which was of course fitted perfectly.
“It’s going pretty good, nice to get out after a long week.” You reply, watching people mill around the place. You knew almost everyone here, aside from a couple of the extras. Most folks were chatting and drinks were flowing.
“Oh man, it sure has. I am happy they stuck me in the studio for the next week.”
“I will take the studio over driving any day. The city is atrocious to get around on a good day. Add in construction I would rather take the studio regularly.” You reply, having lived here for close to a decade and there was never not construction. You weren’t even sure what the construction was for anymore.
The two of you chit-chat for a while, going over different projects. Discussing a little about the union politics and the fact that the industry was saturated because of the fifteen film schools. It’s nice, even welcomed. You’re now on your third drink and the world is getting a little tipsy. Rebecca has moved over, and Neal from props is talking to you. He was discussing some builds he was looking at doing for a Sci-fi show coming up at the end of the year. You listened intently, you had always loved props and had considered moving to that department at some point.
The night carries on, you are buzzed now. The realization that you are going to need to get an Uber is at the front of your mind. You make your way to the bar in sesrch for some much needed water. When you look over to see Trevor grinning and moving towards you.
“Hey sweety,” He says, words tripping over each other. The man was also as drunk as you are. “Me and Decon are gonna probably share an Uber to his place. Do you want to catch a ride with us?’
His eyes are bright if a little fuzzy, Decon is staring at him with hunger in his face. You can’t blame the man Trevor was fine as hell. If he wasn’t gay as a unicorn, you’d be tempted.
“Umm, I am pretty sure that you both live at the other end of town from me,” You are surprised you can actually remember where Trevor lives, much less that Decon was in the same area.
“Oh. Well,” His face screwed up like he was trying to solve world hunger and not how to get home.
Walton emerges from the groups of people, his face is slightly flushed, but out of all of them, he is probably the least inebriated. He takes in the three of you, you can see the wheels turning.
“What is going on, if you’re arranging a three-way I will have to excuse myself, I hate being a fourth wheel,” The man chuckles at his own joke, Decon looks slightly confused looking between all of you.
You let out a small snort, “No, just figuring out rides home. I live in the opposite direction of these two.” You gesture to the two men who are heavily leaning against each other.
“Nonsense, I will make sure you get home safely,” Walton says looking at both of them. “You two lovebirds go and have a wild night. I will make sure the lady will get home.”
“You sure Mr.Goggins,” Decon asks, he is a good head shorter than Trevor but built thicker with shaggy blonde hair.
“Walton,” He smiles, “Definitely, she will be taken care of.”
“The lady also agrees,” You sigh, leaning slightly against the older man. You can feel how warm he is, it’s hard not to rest against him
“Okay,” Trevor chuckles, “Have fun, don’t do anything I would do. Or. You know do.”
You watch Trevor and Decon stumble out of the bar. Part of you is jealous that they had someone to go home to. You relax and going to find yourself a spot on the couch. A moment later Walton slid in beside you. You’re happy your face is already flushed from the alcohol as his thighs touch yours.
“Hey,” He says in a hushed tone, sipping of what smells faintly of scotch. He hands you a glass of water which you greatly appreciate.
“Hey,” You reply, meeting his gaze. “How are you fairing?”
He smiles and looks around the room, “Honestly, I am kind of over it.”
You giggle looking around at the same time. A few people had left, some people lingered in groups, and a few had divided into pairs. The mood has chilled out a little, the music dropped down a few notches. It’s comfortable and cozy, but that might be liquor.
“It could be worse, we could have to work tomorrow.” You look back at him. The man was now staring at you as if every word you said was important. You fail to hold his gaze, damn liquor was making you melt.
“Mmm but at least I’d get to hang out with you,” He said with a crooked smile gracing his lips. You were pretty positive the man new the effect he had on you.
“Oh stop,” You giggle, shaking your head and taking another sip of water. “I know you enjoy the days off as much as any of us.”
“Suppose I do, it doesn't change the fact I like getting to spend time with you.” The Southern slipping in, making you almost choke on your drink.
You roll your eyes but relax beside him, part of you just wants to lean against his chest and let the alcohol relax your inhibitions. You both talk about traveling, you had spent a few months traveling around the Philippines, Taiwan, and Korea. He talked about being in Japan, and China. Sharing info on some of the favorite foods you had a chance to eat, and how you both looked forward to traveling again in the future. You decide in haze to have a few more drinks, as the two of you continue to chat about the future.
When the bartender calls closing you go to stand and the whole world spins around. You nearly fall over but someone grabs you before it all goes dark.
***
Light is peering around the blinds, and you groan at the splitting headache and nausea filling your already foggy brain. Reaching around you find the side table, a bottle of Tylenol, and a glass of water. You take two tablets and bury yourself under the covers, falling into a restless sleep.
There is more light now, and though your headache is marginally better you still feel like you’ve been run over by a truck. Blinking a few times you realize you’re not in your room. This room is fairly close to the size of the apartment you live in. The walls are basic contractor beige with generic artwork. There is a closet, two side tables, a darkened bathroom, and a chair near the end of the bed where you can see your jacket and purse sitting on it. Your phone is on the side table, plugged in, beside you along with a powerade and glass of water. Swinging yourself out of bed you are grateful to see you are still dressed, sans shoes, socks, and your jacket. Your clothes are uncomfortable but not as if they had been taken off and put back on. You straighten yourself a bit, rubbing your aching forehead. You grab the water and drink most of it. It makes your stomach lurch and for a moment you briefly wonder if the water is going to come back up.
Settled, you quietly walk over to the attached bathroom. You don’t bother turning on the light, already knowing that you look like hell. You grab a face towel and wash what was left of last night's eyeliner and mascara off. Making sure to clean the towel well so that it doesn’t stain. You take out your braids and rub at your sore scalp. Giving yourself a moment on the toilet before washing up and rubbing more cold water on your face. You feel a little more human than when you walk back to the room. That cold stone of anxiety rolls around and you try and push it away. Whoever had brought you here hadn’t done anything. You were currently safe and could catch an Uber home.
Gathering up your things and the bottle of Powerade you slowly open the door. There is the faint sound of music coming from down the hallway. You tiptoe down the way hoping to see a front door to slip out of. At the end of the hallway, the place opened up into a kitchen/living room area. A man was standing in the kitchen singing the song that was playing. The door out was across from the kitchen.
It wasn’t just any man, it was Walton. Hair fluffed up, wearing a pair of christmas pjs, and white cotton top. Singing and dancing around the kitchen. You freeze and wonder if you should go back into the bedroom and throw yourself out the window. Maybe there would be a fire escape, or maybe you’d just let yourself be swallowed up by the pavement instead of facing him. Letting out a small breath you push yourself into the light of the day, feeling completely at a loss. You weren’t going to be able to sneak out, might as well get the awkwardness over with.
“Umm. Hey,” You squeak, placing your things onto a chair at the small dining table.
Walton jumps and turns back to you, his glasses nearly falling off his face,a brief moment of fear is erased by a big smile. “Hey! You’re up. Sorry, did I wake you?” Pushing up his glasses with the back of his wrist.
You shake your head taking a small sip out of your bottle. The smell of bacon and pancakes makes your stomach growl. How you could be both be hungry and hungover should be studied by scientists.
“No, I am usually up early.” You give a weake smile. It was true, even on your days off you were usually up between seven and eight.
“I made breakfast?” He looks so out of place and nervous, pointing to a couple of plates. His usual charisma was replaced with jittery energy. Then again you’d probably be nervous too if one of your drunk co-workers slept at your house.
“That sounds amazing.” You say grabbing both full plates and taking them over to the table. You have no idea what the hell you’re doing, all you wanted to do was leave. At the same time, you were not going to turn him down. The thought of him being disappointed was worse than the awkwardness of staying.
He slips into the seat beside you handing you a fork and knife, placing some maple syrup on the table. Getting up, again, to grab two mugs and the pot of coffee, he whirls around the place grabbing some cream and sugar too.
“Thank you, umm for breakfast,” You say, not really sure how to feel about the whole situation. You had very hazy memory about the rest of your evening at the bar. Most of it was just blank. “How did I end up here?”
Walton’s face falls as he looks at you, “Oh, shit. I should have told you. Probably don’t remember coming here.”
You nod your head, suppressing a smile at how flustered he is.
“I tried to bring you home, but you won’t give me your address or wallet. Kept saying you weren’t bringing home ‘no random man’. Kept trying to convince me to just put you in a cab .”
You laugh at that. “Of course I did.”
“Trevor wasn’t answering so we brought you here. Ahh- I promise nothing happened. I just took off your shoes cause they looked uncomfortable. Plus socks in bed always feel weird.” The jumble of words spilled out as he looked at you for reassurance.
Your hand finds itself resting on top of his wrist. “Thank you, I appreciate you not leaving me at the bar.” It was kind of him, most people would have just dropped you into a cab and be done with it. But of course, Walton would make sure everyone got home safe, the man was gentleman.
Walton looks shocked at the last statement. His hand slips up and takes yours. It feels weirdly natural, his larger hand engulfing yours as he rubs his thumb of your fingers absentmindly.
“Oh no. I would never leave you- at a random spot.” He says quickly adding the last bit as his cheeks go slightly pink. You briefly wonder why he would be so flustered, you wouldn’t have blamed him for just letting you take a cab.
“You're a good man and the food smells amazing.” You smile back, squeezing his hand slightly. It felt so easy just to sit here at the table holding hands.
Both of you dig into the food, and despite still feeling hungover the food hits the spot. Walton explained as best he could the rest of the night. You had apparently also hit Leonard, his driver when the man had held your waist trying to help you into the vehicle.
“I will make sure to apologize to him on Monday.” You make a face. “Probably a good reason for me not to go out so much.”
Walton looks taken aback by this, “Leo will be more than fine. I can guarantee he has dealt with the worst. Plus besides that, you were very much welcome company.”
“Still though.” You shake your head. You grab his plate and stack it before bringing it to the sink.
The habit of putting things into the dishwasher is in full effect. You help him clean up, and it all feels much too easy. You take a sip of water, the headache still lingers and all you really want is a shower and some sleep. Silently you scold yourself for letting the night get away from you. You had never been a bigger drinker to begin with, and letting yourself get black-out drunk was not exactly something you wanted on your resume.
“Thank you for- umm- looking after me. I should really get going.” You say feeling flustered, thinking about the fact that you’d love to just crawl into bed with him. Let him tell you stories of his travels as you drift off to sleep. Maybe you could both have a shower and then-
“Can I drive you home?” Walton wakes you from your daydream. “If you are comfortable with me knowing where you live-”
You blink a few times, trying to get your brains to string a few words together. “Oh no, I couldn’t ask you to do that. You’ve already done so much for me.”
He shrugs, “It’s really not a big deal. I promise”
Your resolve crumbles, what were you supposed to do to disappoint him and say no? No there was not disappointing this sweet man. You’d do near anything just to see him smile.
***
Walton drives you home, you’re surprised he drives something as utilitarian as a Toyota 4runner. At the same time, who are you to judge, you have been driving the same Honda Accord for almost a decade. You both chat about the city, Walton seems enamored with the mountains, so close to the sea, and tons of places to explore. You talk about your favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and Walton recommends a few decent bars. The chatter is easy, it’s always been easy you realize. The pace and flow were as if you had been talking to him for years ike you were old friends.
“That’s me,” You say with a weak smile, the idea of having to go home wasn’t as appealing. Your tiny little studio apartment, with its leaky windows and smoke-smelling hallways. At the same time, you know you can’t stay in the vehicle all weekend.
“So it is,” Walton says, he looks almost as disappointed as you do. “What time should I pick up Monday?”
Taken aback by the question you look at him with your mouth open.
“Your car is still at the studio.” He replies that little mischievous glint in his eye. You wonder if this was his plan all along.
“Oh. Dang-it. It’s alright I will catch a bus.” You say, trying not to be dismissive but also not wanting to bother him. Realistically he probably had better things to do then pick you up.
“No. I insist. I was the one that invited you to the bar.” Walton states a small smile growing as he watches you. You realize that you aren’t going to be able to say no to him, and at the same time, you don’t want to either.
“I will be outside around 6 am if that works?”
His smile widens, making your heart do little backflips, “Sounds good, I will see you then.”
*This was so much fun to write. I am excited to see where things go next! As always likes comments reblogs are greatly appreciated .*
32 notes
·
View notes