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wedonthaveawhile · 5 months

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Crimson and Clover

Garreth Weasley x MC (18+ only)

The Weasley's are known for their hospitality when it comes to those without a place to call home. In keeping with his family values, Garreth invites MC to the Weasley Christmas party, leading to some one-on-one time in the barn.

Tags: NSFW, aged-up characters, smut with plot, semi-public sex, dirty talk, oral sex, drunk sex, snowstorm, flirty Garreth, fluff, modern dating norms.

AO3 // Word count: 5.5k

The witch crunched over patches of frosty grass as she ascended the cracked cobblestone path to the Weasley cottage. She had a suspicion Garreth may have stretched the truth regarding the number of guests his family typically hosts over Christmas. His house was tiny. Undeniably adorable, with warm light spilling from frosted iron window frames, and crooked beams nestled between cobbled bricks, but it was definitely on the snug side.

A decent amount is what he’d told her when she’d interrogated him on the headcount. In hindsight, it was a very vague answer.

She probably should've kept her holiday plans—or lack thereof—to herself, considering his family's reputation for taking in students without a place to call home, but he’s so difficult to tune out when eagerly recounting one of his ridiculous anecdotes.

“—that’s when it dawned on me that I’d spiked the barrel with a tad too much firewhisky," Garreth had regaled, his hands waving dangerously close to the dormant devil snare. "Aunt Matilda is down for the count..."

His herbology partner stifled a laugh at the thought of their conjuration professor blackout drunk, only to be jolted into panic as Garreth's flailing hands nearly triggered a response from the roots.

"Garreth, will you focus!"

"Shit, my bad," he muttered, conjuring a beam of light to repel the advancing vines. “So anyway, we’re pretty sure Aunt Matilda’s dead at this point, but then she sits up and demands we bring her a man-”

A suppressed snort lodged in her throat and she promptly choked on it, triggering Garreth to erupt into a spirited cackle.

"Alright, my little seedlings," Professor Garlick began to softly chastise. "Let's ensure each leaf in this botanical cluster gets its chance to soak in the sunlight of knowledge without being overshadowed by the noise.”

They exchanged sheepish glances before refocusing their attention on their assignment.

“What about you, how was your Hallowe'en?” Garreth asked, brushing up the scattered soil on their table and sliding it into Duncan's bag.

“Peaceful. There were moments when it felt like I had the entire castle to myself, it was perfect."

"Wait, you were here?" He swiped the back of his hand across his frown, smearing damp mud across his freckles. “Not typical for your watchdogs to let you roam alone, is it?”

She nervously stole a glance across the table. Fortunately, both Sebastian and Ominis were too immersed in their own tasks to catch the jab.

“Had I known, I would've persistently hounded you until you came to mine,” Garreth continued, “You could've witnessed drunk Professor Weasley in all her glory. Consider this an early Christmas invite."

"I appreciate it, but I actually love the calm during the holidays."

"Even over Christmas?" His brow furrowed as he struggled to grasp the idea of finding joy in silence. "What would you even do if you were on your own?"

She released a deep exhale as she contemplated her options, most scenarios revolving around the idea of staying in pyjamas all day. "I'd probably spend most of the day in bed—"

Garreth smirked, cleaning soil from his fingernails. "I could clear you a spot in mine."

She rolled her eyes, choosing to brush off his remark. He had a reputation for being a flirt but in the past few months he’d doubled down and the line was starting to blur between teasing and genuine intent.

Assuming the invitation was nothing more than a passing whim, she thought that would be the end of it, but she was mistaken. The occasional lingering glances they shared in passing—glances she typically tried to ignore—were now interpreted by him as an open invitation to approach. He relentlessly pestered her on whether she would be attending, shooting down each excuse with a stream of reasons why she should be there.

"Christmas is a family event, it would be strange for me to be there."

"Christmas at my house? Packed. Most of them? Total strangers."

"I'm dreadful at small talk. You'd have to stick to me like glue and handle all the mindless chatter."

"I'd do both of those things regardless."

She staved off his advances until early December when she ultimately surrendered just to put an end to his relentless pursuit. There were two weeks of holiday to enjoy, so giving him a few hours on Christmas Eve felt like a reasonable compromise.

She released a shaky huff of breath, the warmth curling up and misting into the crisp air, before rapping her knuckles against the weathered door. After a series of muffled footsteps, it creaked open an inch and little fingers curled around the edge. A festive melody wafted through the hallway and spilt into the front garden. Through the narrow crack, a short, pudgy-face Garreth peered out.

"Hi there," she greeted with an awkward wave, her hand hesitating mid-air as the kid gawked up at her. "Is Garreth home?"

Following an uncooperative pause, a surge of relief rolled through her as the bug-eyed child was nudged aside, and the door swung open fully at the hands of her herbology partner.

There was an undeniable tightening in her chest at the sight of him in his party attire – a dark red shirt with sleeves pushed up to his elbows and a snug sweater vest layered over it. His unruly ginger hair had been somewhat tamed by a touch of pomade, but he’d mostly retained his customary wild waves. She attempted to toss out a snarky comment about his appearance, but an articulate sentence evaded her.

"Did you walk all the way from town?" he asked, leaning his head out the front door and tracking the trail of disturbed snow left by her footsteps. "We have a floo connection in our living room, you know. You could have come straight here."

"I felt awkward showing up in the middle of your house. I didn't want to get ambushed by a grandma."

Their eyes met and a brief silence hung between them until he blinked, "You returned an egg to a Hebridean black dragon on foot, but introducing yourself to Granny Meryl has you all nervous?"

"Mind if I come in?" she brushed off his question and crossed the uneven wooden threshold into the warmth of the hallway. He only half-turned to let her through, forcing her to brush up against him as she passed. It was going to be a long night.

Maybe he hadn't exaggerated the capacity of his house - the hallway alone was the size of the exterior. Bulky coats and scattered shoes adorned one side of the expansive hallway, while the aroma of festive spices wafted from the open living room door. Beyond it, she could hear a lively cluster of voices, more than she had expected. The concept of a bustling atmosphere rather than an intimate one managed to quell her nerves slightly.

"You're looking lovely," Garreth complimented as he took her coat and added it to the hectic mountain of others. When she turned to face him, he made no attempt to hide the fact that his eyes were wandering all over her, taking in the details of her emerald dress. "Did you put in all this effort for me?"

"No, it’s for Granny Meryl.”

Garreth groaned dramatically, tossing his head back as he led her into the living room. "Granny’s power of seduction knows no bounds.”

The interior of the cottage must have been expanded for the party, it felt like it went on forever as Garreth weaved them through the horde of inebriated partygoers. One of the perks of belonging to a pureblood family: The unrestricted use of transfiguration spells as the need arose.

They ducked past a drunk aunt merrily dancing on a table with a tie fastened around her forehead which took her way too long to realise was Professor Weasley. Securing a tankard of eggnog that leaned more towards pure brandy, they sank into one of the conjured sofas by the fireplace. She felt a flutter of unease as Garreth slouched a little too close on the worn-out crimson couch. The sagging base pressed their thighs together as it slanted inward, and his arm casually draped around the back of the sofa forced her to consciously resist leaning into him.

She indulged in a few gulps of her festive brew, hoping it would work its magic in loosening her up. She wrinkled her nose at its sharp bite. "Did you have a hand in creating this? It's pure alcohol."

"No, I wasn’t allowed," Garreth sighed, his eyes momentarily losing focus as if lost in a painful memory. "Not after last time."

She wasn't sure if she wanted to dig deeper into that story, but her attention was snagged when something bounced off her leg.

"How many of these are siblings?" she questioned, observing another hyperactive child nearly tripping over her ankles in a rapid dash. For every ginger kid zipping around, a blonde or brunette was in hot pursuit. It became increasingly clear that the Weasleys had not only gathered their immediate family but also an assortment of additional strays.

"Too many. I have two older and three younger, though don’t ask me to distinguish them from my cousins because I’ve already had a bit of brandy and they all have the same face.”

“Yeah, your face.”

“The Weasley genes are strong.”

She gestured toward the gawky child she had encountered when she arrived, "Surely that one's a brother? I initially thought it was you at the door, and you'd had some of that defective potion again—the age-reversing one."

Garreth burst into laughter. "I'd forgotten about that."

“Didn't Sharp have to carry you around on his hip the entire day until it wore off?"

"What a day," he reminisced, wiping a tear from his eye. "And by the way, that's not the same kid who opened the door for you."

"What?"

"I might still have some of that potion," he dismissed her confusion, pondering aloud with a distant look in his eyes. His hand suddenly clamped down on her knee, and he turned to her with pure glee. "Let’s put it in the eggnog."

“Garreth, no.”

"You two are absolutely delightful," an elderly wizard chimed in, swaying slightly as he gestured between the two of them before delving into a nostalgic tangent about him and his wife in their prime.

She noticed she had gradually surrendered to the sinking sofa and was practically nestled in the crook of the arm Garreth had draped across the backrest, while his other hand maintained a firm grip on her knee.

"No, that's not..." she stammered, elbowing him away. "He's just my herbology partner."

“Sorry, dear?”

"She said I’m her life partner—" Garreth’s quip morphed into a yelp as her elbow found its way into his ribs.

After downing just enough alcohol to straddle the fine line between tipsy and outrageously tired, the incessant chatter in the room began to verge on overwhelming. Politely removing herself from a longwinded conversation they’d found themselves in with a rambling cousin, she slipped out into the empty hallway for a brief respite.

The main lights had been extinguished, casting the corridor in a warm glow from the floating candles scattered across high beams. She leaned back against the wall, eyes closed and absorbed the relative quiet.

The living room door scuffed against a rug, unleashing a burst of joyous music before clicking shut again. She'd chalk it up to the eggnog later, but the flickering light cast a shadow over Garreth’s gentle features, and something in her gut pulled taut.

"Are you stalking me, Weasley?" She arched an eyebrow, resisting the urge to give him a once-over.

"You did mention the only way I'd get you to come is if I stuck to you like glue," he pointed out, leaning against the wall beside her.

"Oh, fuck, did I say that?" she sighed, too tired to argue, and couldn't anyway because he was completely right. "I’m not running off, I just needed a breather."

"I didn't think you were, I just wanted to check in." He pushed himself off the wall and started pacing down the hall, brimming with too much energy to stand still. "If you need a real timeout, we could go for a walk and get lost in the snow… It’s nice and quiet out there, where sounds don't carry."

"You could phrase it in a way that doesn't sound like you're plotting my death."

"I'm ready and willing to escape these prying eyes if you are?"

She gave a nod of approval at his somewhat improved wording, then scolded herself as her slightly tipsy gaze ran down the length of his body. Her relief at his lack of comment shifted to a sense of surrender as he summoned their coats, keenly aware he would torment her with it if she declined.

Over the past hour, the snow had whipped up into a flurry, the cottage obscured in a dreamy haze as their steps left imprints on the path that weaved through the fields.

Garreth wrapped them up in a warming charm, the flakes melting into droplets before reaching their skin and trickling down the edges of the shield. It took the edge off the biting December breeze, though it fell short of providing any substantial warmth.

"What's with the feeble charm?" she shivered, answering her own question as she edged a little closer to Garreth, attempting to pilfer some body heat.

"No clue what you’re on about, I’m perfectly warm.”

"You're a liar," she declared. She had wrapped her sleeves around her fingers in an attempt to ward off the chill but let a hand emerge to press the back of it to his flushed cheek. He wasn't lying, his skin burned against her frozen fingers.

"Feel free to turn up the heat," he smirked, leaning into her touch. She thought it was an invitation to enhance the charm, but the laughter that followed his comment hinted at something more suggestive.

"You're the host—it's on you to keep me comfortable," She dropped her hand, noticing she had subconsciously homed in on the warmth radiating from his neck.

He intercepted it before it could fall limply at her side, slowly intertwining their fingers. He gave her every opportunity to pull away, but she found herself not wanting to.

"I'm glad you agreed to come," his voice stumbled for just a split second, but she caught it. Nerves.

It was endearing—a crack in his self-assured armour that stirred a feeling she’d experienced before but had always buried away—When his face lit up as she laughed at one of his one-liners. When he’d pickpocket the last red velvet cookie for her from his Quidditch meetings. When he'd spot her in a bustling crowd, bump his shoulder into hers and walk her to class.

"I'm glad you asked me a hundred and twelve times," she teased, knocking her elbow against his arm. She stole a glance back across the field to catch sight of the cottage. Despite feeling that they hadn't covered much ground, all she could discern beyond five feet was a swirl of snowflakes and shadows.

“Are you nervous?”

She snickered at his question, having weathered harsher conditions in far less pleasant company. "No, I'm fine. I like a good snowstorm."

“Well, there’s a barn up ahead if you want to take some shelter and see if it calms down before we head back.”

"A barn? Do you have cows?" Her excitement bubbled up, pushing aside any suspicion of his ulterior motives. "Or horses?"

"No, we have stables up the hill, but we rent them out to folks in the village. This is just a hay barn. Although, there's a rather charming tourist attraction inside the barn that I'd love to show you."

"You're quite eager to get me inside that barn."

He responded with a sheepish smile. "I assure you, I'm being genuine—no funny business... Unless you initiate it."

The snowfall was thickening, and she admired how effortlessly he steered them through it. The barn didn't slowly come into view—she blinked, and suddenly the red wooden structure was looming over them.

The silence closed in as Garreth slammed the door shut and blocked out the insistent howling of the wind. The hush was only disturbed by the rustle of loose straw stirred by gusts slipping through the cracks in the beams. He flicked his wand towards the loft, and the spell ignited rows of candles lining the rafters. The soft glow revealed stacks of hay bales towering toward the loft, casting stretched shadows on the dusty wooden floor.

"Isn't that a fire hazard?"

"Muggle-borns," he scoffed, as though the mere suggestion was ludicrous.

“So, where’s this tourist attraction?”

He responded with a nod, directing her attention behind her. In the heart of the hay barn, a solitary rope swing dangled from a sturdy support beam.

"Oh, shit!" She dashed toward it, gathering momentum, and caught the swing midway. The worn fibres felt abrasive against her palms as she let it bear her weight. Hooking her foot into the loop, she tilted her head back, swinging with a jumbled grace. She was sure she hadn't consumed enough eggnog to be drunk, but as she propelled herself into the air, her brain began doing cartwheels. She inhaled the earthy aroma of aged wood to ground herself.

Vibrations travelled across the beam and down through the rope as Garreth clambered up a wooden ladder into the loft. There was a moment of rustling and a few mumbled incantations before a triumphant, "Aha!"

He stumbled out from behind a barrel, wrestling with the cork on an unopened bottle of firewhisky. "One thing about having a large family," he began, attempting to mask the strain in his voice, "is that you have to get creative with your hiding places."

"So, this is where you stash your treasure? Good to know."

"Nope," the word was punctuated by a pop as the cork shot out, chipping a battered beam in the process. "This is where my brother stashes his treasure."

"Oh, so you’re that kind of brother. That makes so much sense.”

“What kind?”

“A nosy little shit.”

He raised his wand in response, and the swing slowly began to pull back. She kept her cool until she reached the point parallel to the beam, at which she let out a shriek as her stomach lurched, and she plummeted. As the swing's momentum slowed, she came to a halt breathless and laughing.

"Stop hoarding the loot," she scolded as she emerged at the top of the ladder, finding him comfortably settled against a wooden beam swigging the stolen whisky. She swept aside a few strands of straw with her foot before settling down beside him.

"Come and claim it," he goaded, holding the bottle aloft and swinging it between two fingers.

"I thought you said no funny business."

"Unless you initiated it," he reminded her, "I'm just offering you the chance to kick things off."

On any other day, she would have suppressed the ache to clamber onto his lap, but the combination of a light buzz from the alcohol and him looking like that had left her defenceless. She didn't stand a chance. She intercepted the bottle as he raised it to his lips, taking it from his grasp and straddling his thighs. He seemed caught off-guard as if he hadn't expected things to go this far.

“You've got the talk down, but when it comes to walking the walk, you seem a little skittish," she teased, savouring the sharp burn of the liquid as it coursed down her throat.

His surprise vanished beneath a confident grin. "Skittish? I'm just savouring the moment." Though he sounded sure of himself, his eyes didn't quite meet hers as he reclaimed the bottle, taking a lingering sip.

Setting the glass down with a clink, he ran his hand up the length of her thigh. "I've got you all night, maybe I just want to take my time with you."

She attempted to mask her reaction to his expectations, but judging by the self-satisfied grin on his face, she didn't do a great job. "All night? This is news to me."

"Well, it's a blizzard," he remarked, tracing random patterns on the fabric of her dress. "I can't let you walk back to the village in this. I'm a gentleman."

"I thought your living room had a floo connection," she replied, feigning a mocking tone as she repeated his words back to him.

“It’s one way.”

"Shut up," her laughter was stifled by a gust crashing against the barnyard doors. She jumped, suddenly aware anyone could walk in and catch him nestled between her legs.

"Don't look so frightened. Granny Meryl is much less likely to walk in on you screaming my name out here than in my bedroom."

She despised how much that stupid joke had turned her on, his words winding through her brain and choking out any thoughts that weren't focused on how close he was. Close enough to count each of his freckles, and how she wanted to kiss every one of them. "You seem pretty confident in your abilities."

He hummed, trailing his fingertips along her jaw. "If you're curious, all you have to do is ask."

Her fingers weaved through his hair as she kissed him. A satisfied sigh escaped her throat before she could stifle it, and her toes curled when he seized the opportunity to slide his tongue against hers. She rocked forward against his hips as he pulled her closer, shamelessly grinding against him.

"What do you want?" he whispered painfully soft, his fingers digging into the flesh of her thigh as he pulled her down, inviting her to feel more of him. He was thick and stiff between her thighs and when he rolled his hips up it sent a wave of sparks racing across her skin.

"I want this off," she demanded, tugging impatiently at the hem of his shirt, aching for the absence of any fabric between them. He briefly tore his lips from her skin to wrench it off and fling it aside. Her hands trailed over the contours of his skin, firm beneath a satisfying layer of warmth and softness.

"Your turn," he whispered, moving with painstakingly slow precision as he started to unclasp the buttons of her dress.

Timing couldn't have been more perfect, the snowstorm screamed through the cracks in the wood, but his skin was blazing against hers. Finding solace in the warmth, her freezing hands roamed across his body. Fumbling fingers traced a path downward, hungrily stumbling against his buttons.

"You haven't asked yet," he scolded, guiding her onto her back and settling between her parted legs. He took hold of her hands, rutting against them just once so she could feel how rock-hard he was before pinning them above her head with a sturdy hand. “I want to hear you ask for it.”

A surge of pride and a touch of defiance kept her from begging him to take her. After enduring months of chasing, the audacity for him to assume he would be in control of—

“Can I?” His whispered words in her ear shattered any semblance of self-preservation. He used his free hand to tease the fabric at the neckline of her unfastened dress with delicate fingertips.

She nodded with more eagerness than she'd initially intended as he peeled the fabric down her body. "See how easy it is to ask for it?" he teased, his palm brushing faintly across the sensitive curve of her breasts. Goosebumps erupted across her skin as he flicked his tongue against her taut nipple before taking it in his mouth, his velvety hum vibrating against her skin.

"Garreth," she tried to sound stern, but it escaped as a needy gasp.

"Yes, sweetheart?"

Embarrassingly, a hushed whimper shot up her throat as the affectionate name slipped off his tongue.

"Let go of my hands," her nails traced a path down the nape of his neck as he instantly complied with her demand. Abandoning any pretence of playing coy, she added, "I want it, I want you. Please."

The carnal groan that she’d coaxed from him shuddered through her and pooled between her legs. His fingers trailed up her thigh and slipped under the elastic of her underwear, eliciting a strangled whimper as he exposed the sensitive bud between her legs.

"That's it, moan for me," his touch transitioned from oversensitive to pure bliss as began he circling her clit.

"So... bossy—" Her words melted away as he slid his finger through the gloss on her skin and pushed it inside her.

"It gets you wet though, doesn't it?" he murmured, his lips latching onto her neck. Her eyes fluttered shut, head tossing back as she surrendered to the sensation of him filling her up.

Her fingernails carved into the worn-down grooves of the wooden floor as she ground against his hand. His face faltered as if his brain had shattered at the sight of her riding his hand. "Fuck, keep moving just like that."

His erection strained against his underwear, protruding from his partially undone trousers. He scrambled to free it with one hand while dipping his head between her legs. His tongue circled her clit while his fingers quickened their pace. It was an onslaught - merciless and precise, sending deep waves of pleasure winding through her body. His hungry grunts prickled against her tender skin as he began using his free hand to touch himself.

"I’m right here, you should use me for that," she whispered, watching him pleasure himself through giddy eyes.

"Come on my face, and I’ll let you have it," he slung her thighs over his speckled shoulders and began to devour her. His hands grasped at her plump thighs, pulling her tight against his eager mouth. She could faintly hear herself whining—yes, please, and don't stop.

"Oh, fuck, Garreth please," she begged louder, a shockwave coursing through her body as his fingers found their way back inside her. She clutched at his thick hair, bucking her hips against his face. He groaned appreciatively, and that eager sound forced her over the edge, her orgasm striking her like lightning. He delved his tongue inside her as she lazily rutted against it, riding out the surges of euphoria.

“Look at you, following orders," he grinned, crawling up to cage her in his arms, claiming her lips with a rough kiss, "being so good for me." He spread her legs apart with his knees and directed his arousal between her thighs. His dick gently brushed against her, and she shivered at the heightened sensitivity. "Are you ready, or do you need a moment?"

“I’m ready,” she mumbled as he positioned himself at her entrance, pushing in inch by inch. It was painfully slow and taunting, and when she tried to grab his hip, he interlocked his fingers with hers and pinned it to the floorboards.

“You want more, sweetheart?”

She couldn’t do anything but nod. The way he stretched her out felt sinful, a delicious form of sweet agony. He was vocal, each measured thrust was met with a rough groan and the noise scrambled around in her wonderfully empty skull. She arched as he gave her everything he had, he seamlessly slid his arm into the space left behind with an intoxicating roll of his hips.

"Right there, just like that," she whimpered as he struck a spot that sent shooting stars dancing across her vision.

His name dripped from her tongue like honey as he hit that spot again, driving him to thrust into her with increased force, each effort eliciting louder cries of his name.

"Oh, sweetheart, you feel like you were made for me." He came to a halt, buried to the hilt inside her as he worked a possessive love bite into her throat. "I've wanted this for so long," he confessed between each lingering suck, rocking his hips flush against hers. "Wanted you so bad. Fantasized about bending you over that herbology table. Making you scream."

She had never thought that words could bring her to the summit, especially not the words of Garreth Weasley who typically used them to irritate her. Yet, his rasping confessions were pushing her exceptionally close to the edge.

"Just—just.. stay like that," she pleaded. He was barely moving, but she felt on the verge of splintering apart from the way he was stretching her. His warm body pinned her helplessly to the ground and the unholy pressure of his cock deep inside her sent sparks radiating through her belly.

"You're trembling," he whispered as she fluttered around him. “You gonna come for me?”

"Yes," she whimpered, pulling him close for a kiss. He rocked into her and all she could do was moan as her orgasm slowly rolled through her body like a crashing wave. She had believed they were just two drunk friends giving in to some meaningless tension, but he was kissing her so slowly, stroking her face as he fucked her through each gentle pulse of her orgasm, and it was turning her to putty in his hands.

Wanting to contribute her share, she steadied her trembling legs and gave him a firm shove, rolling him onto his back.

He quickly established a pace she had no control over, gripping her hips to keep her in place so there was nothing she could do but take it. His mouth enthusiastically explored her breasts, kissing and sucking until she felt light in the head. "Do you want it?" The crack in his voice was almost too much to bear. "Want me to come inside you?"

She ran her nails through his hair as his thrusts began to falter and fall out of rhythm. "I want you to come. Please, Garreth I want it." She whispered soft encouragements in his ear, needing him to be as stimulated as had been.

He mumbled her name against her throat, his hips slapping vigorously against her soaked thighs. His head fell back, fiery red hair clinging to his sweaty temples as he grunted with each rhythmic pulse. She nestled against his warm chest, listening to the thunderous pound of his heart as he released deep inside her.

He wrapped her in his arms, and they lay together for what felt like an eternity—his fingers gently trailing through her hair might have even lulled her to sleep for a few minutes before he eventually shifted to reach for his wand.

“Sorry," he told her without a trace of remorse, muttering a few charms to clean them both up.

Clarity slowly returned to her mind, and thoughts rushed in like an avalanche. Should she head home? Was he genuinely suggesting she stay the night? Sticking around for Christmas felt intrusive. Maybe she should muster the will to get dressed and leave—as soon as her legs felt like legs again.

Casting a sidelong glance at Garreth, he seemed to be experiencing the same inner turmoil as she was, absentmindedly picking at his wand while staring down at her. In an effort to dispel the tension, she sat up and delicately kissed the red lines she’d carved into his shoulders.

"If you want this to be a one-time thing," he began, his voice carrying the same vulnerability she heard when he'd held her hand, "I can respect that, I'll take you home and everything between us is good. On the other hand, we could go pilfer a troll sack full of food, bring it to my bedroom, and just be humans together. What do you think?"

"How much is a troll sack?" she smirked, as she delicately brushed some sticky strands of hair away from his eyes.

"Enough to last a couple of days," his confidence began to seep back in as he flashed her a smile. "I don't have any plans for New Years, or you know, any of the days leading up to it."

Pretending to consider the proposition, she glanced at her reflection in a nearby bucket, using it to smooth out her hair. "I say we rejoin the party. I should probably make an effort to socialise if I’m going to be overstaying my welcome."

Authors note: If you're interested in the story behind Garreth turning himself into a baby, and subsequently carried around by Sharp all day, you can find "Baby Garreth, and where to find him" here.

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napakmahal · 6 months

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Don’t slut up that college

Btw if you’ve watched the show and if you look (not that close) you will find a lot of Euphoria references.

“I want to look like attractive but not desperate. Like im begging to make a move.” Tadashi help a hanger with a loose light green short sleeve button up. In a few minutes he’d be leaving to spend the night with this girl he’d been talking to for a while who lived in the dorms of another campus. SFIT didn’t allow foreign students on their campus unless they were being considered for a spot there so it was easier for him to go over to y/n’s place.

In order to get complete, unbiased, and a mixture of different opinions he’d invited his entire clique over to his hour to help him pack. Along with his little brother listening by accident of course.

Gogo coughed into the crease of her elbow, “I don’t think she’s going to look at any of your clothes and think: Oh my god he’s trying to fuck me.”

“LANGUAGE!” Tadashi scolded, referring to the much younger college students behind the paper room divider.

She popped her hand over her mouth, “Oops, sorry.”

Hiro removed one of his headphones from where he’d been watching some dumb youtube video on his bed and called out, “It’s all good Gogo!”

Honey pointed out, “I like it. I think you look very presentable and casual. Like it’s enough to go out, but not too over the top.”

“Yeah,” Wasabi, who was sitting on the floor right next to his friend’s bed agreed. “Besides, I think muted colors and calm patterns make you look clean.”

Tadashi was holding onto the hanger and placing it in front of his torso as if he was actually wearing it before turning around.

“Fred.”

The blonde looked up, squinted for a few moments before responding. “It’s nice. Suits you really well.”

With a sigh, Tadashi took the shirt off the hanger and rolled it up into a log before gently placing it inside his backpack. He needed help planning out this weekend. Over the course of the months Y/n and Tadashi had been talking he thought he’d made it abundantly clear that he really liked her. And he had, but he also wanted her to know that he took her seriously. So showing up to the two-day mini vacation they planned dressed like a bum was not an option. He liked this girl and was very committed and devoted to her and he was going to act like it.

Just then, the door to the boys shared bedroom swung open with a creaking noise. Their Aunt Cass was standing in the doorway holding their newly groomed cat like a baby in her arms.

“Hey Auntie.” Hiro greeted her without looking up. The rest followed in saying hello.

Aunt Cass walked into the room before looking around at all the clothes spread out on her oldest nephews bed.

“I want you to know I’m putting a lot of trust into you. Letting you go out.” Aunt Cass pointed her finger at Tadashi before dropping Mochi the cat and letting him run to sit on Honey’s lap for ear scratches.

From the other side of the divider Hiro laughed and said, “Yeah Tadashi, don’t get her pregnant!”

Aunt Cass grabbed one of Tadashi’s shirt and threw it at Hiro’s face. “That’s not funny, Hiro.”

The boy’s smirk wiped off but quickly returned when his aunt looked back at his older brother with a serious tone. “No seriously, do not get her pregnant.”

“Relax Auntie,” Tadashi zipped up his backpack. “She has a roommate.”

“Mmmhmm, listen to me. I want you to keep your phone on you, make sure your ringer is on all the time. If you go out and when you come back I want you to take a photo of you in the room with a working clock in it.” She pointed her finger in his face.

Despite him being an adult, she still worried. After the deaths of their parents, she’d been intrusted with the care of her beautiful boys. And if she’d lost them, lost on of their parents babies, how was she supposed to forgive herself for that?

Everyone’s jaw had dropped at her demanding request.

“What the hell?” Gogo was laughing into her palm.

Wasabi looked up at Aunt Cass, “You mean like a ransome photo?”

Completely falbberagsted, Tadashi laughed out breathlessly with his mouth hung open, “I hate you, did you know that?”

“Aww well I love you.” She wrapped her arm around her (much taller) nephew.

Tadashi wrapped both of his arms around her torso like a little kid and tucked his head into her, “I love you, too.”

Tadashi was getting ready to leave in a matter of a few more minutes. He’d been lent the family’s truck for the weekend for him to use. Not very hot to have to ride around on a moped with your date.

“Okay, have fun rockstar.” Aunt Cass and the rest of the clique including Hiro followed him out as he was getting ready to pull the truck out of the alley behind their garage. Once he was in and the engine was turned on, his entire friend group started making vaguely sexual gestures toward him behind his Aunt’s back. Which then prompted Hiro to shout at the top of his lungs:

“DON’T SLUT UP THAT CAMPUS!”

Aunt Cass slapped him in the back of the head.

The rest of the farewells consisted of ‘be a gentleman’ or ‘tell her we said hi’. It wasn’t until everyone but Aunt Cass had gone back inside the café that she carefully whispered to herself as she watched the truck drive further away:

“Don’t you dare get her pregnant.”

*******************

“Okay, how do I look?” You turned around with your arms spread wide for your roommate to judge.

This would be the first time Tadashi would be sleeping over and for two day you’d never have to say goodnight. Obviously, this was not your first date with him. You guys’s first date was a trip to the botanical gardens where he insisted on taking a million pictures of you and posting them on every social media platform he had (Instagram, that’s it) with the caption ‘someone’s someone”. And ever since you two have been non-stop talking. He’s the first person to wish you a good morning and he’s the last person to tell you goodnight. He just feels right, he might be it.

Your roommate, getting high off her cherry coke-flavored vape kissed her teeth. “Like a bad bitch.”

“Oh my god,” You laughed dropping your face in your hands. “ Thank you for that, but can you come up with another one?”

“Why? You look like a bad bitch. End of story.”

You scoffed, “Yes, and thank you but I feel like he’s not that kind of guy.”

“What the fuck does that mean?”

“I just mean like he’s not one to call girls bad, or fine. Hell, he has the hardest time saying the word sexy. To him, it’s a cuss word. So, other than a bad bitch is there anything else I can pass off as?”

Your roommate breathed out a cloud of scented smoke, “An angel.”

“Aww thank you.”

“What are you guys even doing tonight?” She asked from her side of the room.

You grabbed your beauty blender and started to fix some things, “Umm we’re just gonna hang out. Grab food, walk around, and then come back here to watch a movie.”

“Watch a movie, or watch a movie?

You rolled your eyes. “You’re actually done.”

“How long till Netflix asks if you’re still watching?” She raised her eyebrows suggestively.

You argued with your roommate, “He’s not the kind of guy.”

“Oh really? What campus does he go to? OMG PLEASE TELL ME HE’S NOT IN A FRAT!”

You gagged at the thought of dating a frat boy. “Ew no, that’s such an ick!”

“So where does he go? Here?”

You shook your head and started going through your collection of jewelry to decipher what would look best with your outfit. “No, he goes to SFIT. He’s a- a robotics major.”

“Ooooh she got herself a nerd!” She laughed in your ear. “How’d you guys meet anyways?”

You thought about that day and a sly smile plastered on your face. A few months ago, one of the girls in your dorm was transferring to SFIT because she couldn’t afford to attend there all four years and a lot of you wanted to show out to the student showcase to support her getting in. There is where you meet a tall boy in a baseball cap with eyes are brown as freshly brewed coffee and honey-baked skin. Needless to say, he was very cute, and the girl with the e/c eyes from the party college across town wasn’t too bad looking at all. And his inflatable healthcare robot was quite the snitch when his heart rate started speeding up around you. What started off as exchanging numbers with and texting a boy from a college across town, turned into wanting to see him all the time, going out on dates, doing homework together, staying up all hours of the night to talk to each other, and sent photos and videos once. And you two wouldn’t have had it any other way.

“Oh shit,” Your phone dinged. “He’s here. Which me luck!”

You grabbed your keys, kicked your shoes on, and started out the door when your roommate shouted back at you, “Good luck, boo-boo!”

In order for him to really be allowed on campus he needed a student to accompany him so it was vital you were on time so they wouldn’t ban him for trying to trespass. Also because you were just like, really excited to see him.

Across the parking lot, in the blue-purple lit sky decorated with the twinking and flashing electric lights of the crazy industrialized city, Tadashi could be found pacing back in forth behind the long tail of the light blue rusty work truck. The second he came into sight, swinging his keys in his hand while he waited for you, you straightened your arms and sped walked towards him.

“Hey, luv!” You smiled at him.

He thought your smile was the most beautiful in the world. All the things you posted wearing more dark makeup with eyeliner wings sharp enough to cut someone were no doubt attractive, but there was something about the photos you were always smiling. Like the time you two went to the aquarium and a little otter named Silvia grew very fond of you. Swimming around and following you around the tank. You smiled so much that date that all the photos he took of you took up almost five percent of his photo memory.

Tadashi quickly turned around to look you in the eye. “Hi-wow you’re so beautiful.”

“Aww thank you.” He embraced you in a hug and took a moment to just take you in. The way your perfume smelled, what your hair smelled like, the different textures of your clothes. Everything mattered. Nothing but you.

The entire time you were driving around, talking and enjoying your time together Tadashi felt like he couldn’t be happier. However, at the same time he could have sworn that he was going to be sick to his stomach. Everytime you touched his hand like you’d done a thousand times before it still made his stomach flip in ways that were questionable to human physiology. Since it was a Saturday, everyone had their boyfriends and girlfriends over and all restaurants on campus were fully booked. It’s not like you and Tadashi were huge fans of sit downs despite your first date being at a sit down.

Instead, the two of you went down to the strip near the pier where the countless food vendors were backed up almost a hundred people each. Where you could watch the sea lions bask in the sunset, kids flying kites, a couple sharing ice creams, and a friendgroup celebrating a birthday with a picnic.

“Wait a second, you surf?!” You screeched while holding onto a stick of takoyaki in one hand and a blue raspberry frozen lemonade in the other.

Laughing, Tadashi answered, “Yeah, I have a surfboard in my room. Haven’t you seen it?”

“No, what the hell? Why am I just now finding out about this?” You playfully elbowed him in the arm.

“Well I haven’t gone in super long. So right now my boards just collecting dust.”

You bolding walked closer to him and placed you head on his shoulder as you walked. “If you ever plan on going again, will you teach me?”

“Of course, so that one day we can go surfing together.”

You held out your pinky, “Do you promise?”

“I promise.” Tadashi interlaced his pinky with yours and kissed the back of his fist.

You two sat on a park bench to simply listen to the natural environment of the city and the sloshing of the sea on the pier’s structure.

“So,” Tadash turned his body towards you. “How are you?”

“Same as the other million times you’ve asked me.” You laughed. That was the first thing Tadashi asked when you guys talked. How you were doing, or if there ws anything you wanted to share. To him, understanding every bit of the mind he’d grown to find so much beauty and adventure in was always the objective. The purpose of the experiment that was the relationship he was chasing after.

“Sorry, sorry,” He raised his hands in defeat.

Though you assured him it was fine you still wondered something. “How come you like asking me questions about myself? Like I ask you things and you answer them, but then you shift back to me. Why do you do that?”

How was he supposed to tell her that he wanted her to understand that he truly wanted her to be with him without sounding like a creep? Just earlier he’d asked all his friends what clothing made him seem like less of a weirdo, and now she was asking a question he was scared she may not want the answer to. At any moment during his answer she could get up adn walk away. What if she just wanted to take it slow, or maybe she didn’t want to date date him at all. She could just be exploring and the idea that he might weight her down could make her leave.

“Uhh,” He laughed nervously. “I just want you to make sure you know I care and take you seriously. I think I’m like pretty good about communicating with people but sometimes, I don’t know.”

You knew what he was talking about. When Hiro was a botfighter, he was constantly in dangerous situations. It was such a difficult time that really did push their limits to the test. The entire household had huge blowout arguments and breakdowns at least twice a month and it was ruining everyone. Hiro had made Aunt Cass cry without trying and the fourteen-year-old’s mental health was in such a decline they were starting to question whether or not he had some clinical disorders. During all of this, Tadashi kind of just watched. Granted he tried to be the mediator, and was always there for Hiro physically but when it came to him trying to express he just couldn’t. It’s not like he didn’t have anything to say, but it was like the words had been taken from him. What he really wanted to say just wouldn’t come out. Maybe if it had Hiro would have stopped a long time ago and there wouldn’t be a scar on their family dynamic.

For everytime he’d had one of these breakdowns he didn’t want to talk to someone that wasn’t you. You just got him, he felt it. He doesn’t worry about telling you and then you bringing it up all the time, or trying to give him counseling, if you’re going to judge him for being so weak he let his own family fall apart even if it was just for a period of time. All the things wrong with his mind and his thinking, you soothed.

You placed your hand on his, with nothing more to say. That’s how right this was. No words needed. You got him and he got you.

“You want to know how I am?”

He nodded and with a whisper answered, “I really do.”

In a whisper you answered close to his face. “I’m really fuckin’ happy right now.”

On his parents memory, Tadashi has never been so forward before. But something about the moment made it feel right. He leaned in and grabbed the back of your head. Like he was going to drop dead of a heart attack right that second if he didn’t kiss you. This wasn’t your guys’ first kiss, but it was the most intimate and dramatic.

With your foreheads pressed to each other he whispered, “Y/n.”

“Yeah?”

“D-Do you like, umm,” God he was such a fucking idiot. How old was he? Eleven? “Do you want to be my girlfriend?”

You ran your hand through his fine black hair and leaned back with a look of content on your face. “I already am.”

Now, nor you or Tadashi ever really told anyone what really happened on that first night in your empty dorm. Despite the thousands of questions you’d kept it to yourself. All they needed to know was that you were his and he was yours.

#baymax #big hero 6 #hiro hamada #big hero six #tadashi hamada #bh6 x reader #tadashi hamada x reader #fanfic #hiro hamada x reader #disney #honey lemon #bh6 wasabi #gogo tomago #tumblr

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joeyscherryjubilee · 1 year

Text

Like Calls to Like (IV)

Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x OC

Author's Note: Requests are open if y'all have any ideas for a one-shot. Also, Aemond loves poetry I am sure of it.

Warnings: fluff, kissing, Aemond not being able to keep his hands to himself

Word count: 3,313

Summary: Laenyra's departure date approaches soon so Viserys arranges a tourney. To everyone's shock Aemond insists on fighting for his princess' honour in the tourney. Also, Aemond loves reading poetry aloud.

Links: Part I, Part II, Part III

Helaena nodded in predetermined acceptance though her face echoed with sadness.

“Dark wings return to the island for bonds to be forged before the dance.” She said softly, her gaze piercing.

“I will visit soon though, and we can write and perhaps we can fly to each other.” Laenyra offered and took ahold of her aunt’s hands.

“A black wind will be claimed within the darkness.” Helaena whispered anxiously and Laenyra heard Aemond ‘hmm’ at his sister’s words from the fireplace.

“It is alright, sweet girl.” Alicent said with a remarkably sympathetic smile. “I am sure the Princess Rhaenyra will visit in the near future and bring Princess Laenyra with her.”

There was a grimace hidden in the queen’s words but her concern for her children outweighed any prejudice.

“You couldn’t say something to Rhaenyra could you, father?” Aemond asked very quietly, his tone soft and it was clear he was attempting not to convey too much emotion.

Laenyra’s look was pleading and she glanced between her prince and her grandfather.

Viserys gave a weak smile at his son’s words, he was tempted to write to Rhaenyra and insist on his granddaughter’s remaining at King’s Landing. But he missed his daughter terribly, and would not push that same separation of parent and child upon her.

“No, I think it is perhaps time that our Laenyra return home to her mother and brothers.” He waved Laenyra closer, grasping her hands in a frail grip and with a feeble smile. “But we shall have a tourney, to celebrate your time with us and forge more happy memories to keep us warm until your return.”

“A wonderful idea, You Grace.” Laenyra said with a hoarse voice, she enjoyed the big events but was not sure she could stomach such pageantry in the midst of being ripped from Aemond’s side. “Though I would much rather spend my remaining days without fuss, in the company of family.”

“Nonsense, my dear.” Viserys turned his head to look at Otto. “You will make the arrangements, Otto.”

The Hand nodded obediently, his eyes resting for a moment too long on Laenyra, who met his look with a steely determination.

“It cannot be too large an event, Your Grace, with such short notice. Tourneys usually take months to plan and we have such a limited time.” Otto said calmly.

“As grand as we can make it then, father. There are those still here from Aegon’s ball. It should be a splendid affair.” Queen Alicent’s voice was light, her worry for Helaena and Aemond clear at her children forlorn manners.

“Perhaps Aemond can participate.” Viserys murmured tiredly and released his granddaughter’s hand.

“Prince Aemond does not enjoy tourneys.” Laenyra said softly, her smile turning to her prince, who stepped forward to stand beside her by the settee.

“I will fight for you.” He offered almost shyly, as though afraid of rejection, like Laenyra had not been squirming beneath him that very morning. “If you would accept my championship.”

She flushed at his words, the intensity of them and the light touch of his fingers trailing down her arm. It was all Laenyra could do to only nod mutely and not swoon as he loomed over her.

“How charming!” King Viserys exclaimed, his energy returning at the sight of such a handsome couple. The two broke their gaze, shuffling slightly away from another to lessen the intensity of their emotions. “I am sure you will fight bravely for our princess.”

“Thank you, Your Grace.” Aemond muttered though he did not look away from his princess. He would not share her affections, not even for a tourney.

“You hate tourneys.” Laenyra murmured later as Aemond escorted her back to her chambers. They were being tailed by Ser Criston on orders of the queen, and Laenyra was trying her best to ignore the knight.

“I hate another man fighting for your favour more.” He said simply, with a shrug as though his life would not be in danger when he fought.

“Aemond.” She huffed.

“Laenyra.” He sang back and she regarded him with a petulant look. “I will fight for you no matter what.”

Laenyra softened at his honest words. She wished to pull him closer and kiss him, but Ser Criston lurked nearby, and she knew she would have to wait.

“I will see you tomorrow?” Laenyra asked with a slightly raised voice, allowing the knight to overhear.

Aemond grinned, highly amused, and nodded.

“Tomorrow, dear niece.” He agreed and bowed his head to her before turning swiftly and pacing away, forcing Ser Criston to hurry after him.

_______________________

“Read me another one.” Laenyra yawned and stretched across Aemond’s lap, her hair tumbling across the grass beneath the weirwood tree.

“I’ve read you too many to count.” He murmured, adoration at the forefront of his emotions as he allowed her to use him as a pillow. With his free hand, he toyed with a lock of her hair, enjoying the feel of the silken curls.

“Yes, and read me another one.” She mumbled, opening one eye to peer up at him.

Aemond never could deny her anything.

“Alright, do you promise to stay awake this time?” He teased.

“You say that like it is my fault we were awake all night.” Laenyra said with a huff.

“Is it not your fault, temptress?” Aemond grinned, leaning down to press a soft kiss upon her lips.

Laenyra pouted as he pulled away, reaching to tug him back down.

“Do you wish for me to read to you, or do you just want kisses?”

“Both, of course.” Laenyra giggled as Aemond huffed, rolling his eye in playful exasperation.

“Greedy.” He purred and she grinned devilishly, pulling him in for one final hard and fast kiss.

“Now you may read to me.”

“How kind of you, Princess.” Aemond tugged softly at a lock of her hair, his other hand picking up the book of poetry he had been reading to her. She swatted at him but otherwise remained silent, eager for him to recite the texts.

His voice immediately deepened as he began reading aloud. Aemond loved poetry and loved sharing his favourites with Laenyra even more.

“The night has a thousand eyes,

And the day but one;

Yet the light of the bright world dies

With the dying of the sun.

The mind has a thousand eyes,

And the heart but one:

Yet the light of a whole life dies

When love is done.”

“It’s lovely.” Laenyra murmured and sat up, positioning herself to lean against his shoulder. “A bit sad though.”

“How so?” Aemond asked, discarding the book in order to hold her to him.

“That last bit, about life being over when love is gone.” She explained and gave him a smile.

“I think it speaks of a love so powerful nothing can compare.” Aemond said in a soft voice, flushing slightly as she turned to look at him with interest. “A flame that burnt so brightly it could never be reignited.”

“When you put it like that I think it’s my favourite poem.” She muttered, hot under the collar at his words. Aemond was a true romantic, though he didn’t allow anyone else to see that side of him.

Laenyra jolted up as she heard the tear of paper.

“Aemond!” She said in shock and he grinned at her wide eyes. “You cannot just destroy your own book!”

“Can’t I?” He asked loftily with a smirk, holding out the paper. “Now you may carry it with you forever.

Laenyra pushed his hand away, forcing him to return the page to its now torn place in the book.

“I don’t need it, we’ll always be together and you can recite it whenever I demand.”

“You know th-” Aemond’s words were cut off as Laenyra clapped her hand over his mouth with a deep scowl that he found absolutely adorable.

“Hush.” She said firmly. Laenyra had expressly forbidden mention of her leaving over the past days, refusing to allow it to tarnish their time together. She was leaving in just over a week, and the tourney was in one days time. His eyes softened at the blazing determination in her eyes, their faces only a hairs breadth apart.

Aemond removed her hand from his mouth.

“Sorry.” He whispered and pressed a kiss to her palm before closing the gap between them, murmuring another apology against her lips. Laenyra giggled as he peppered her with light kisses, murmuring an apology with each one. Aemond grinned and pulled her onto his lap, pressing a ticklish kiss to her neck, his hands squeezing at her sides.

“No!” She shrieked as he tickled her, gasping for breath and attempting to push his hands away. “Aemond!”

He chuckled as she grabbed at him, allowing her to overpower him and push him to the ground. Her hair fell down like rays of darkness and Aemond grinned up at her, his hands delving into her dark tresses.

Laenyra traced the bottom of his scar with her thumb, her curiosity overcoming her and he took a sharp breath in, but made no move to stop her.

“You’re so beautiful.” She whispered in adoration, her fingers trailing his jaw and gliding over the bridge of his nose. He was absolute perfection and he was all hers.

Aemond scoffed and went to swat her hands away.

“No.” Laenyra huffed and held his hands above his head, looking at him with such a fierceness that Aemond felt himself warm, a stirring in his stomach that saw him shift beneath her. He let her trap him, willing for her to lay waste upon him if that was her desire.

“You are so beautiful, Aemond.” She insisted and leant down to press a soft kiss over his eyepatch, then one on his nose and then along his jaw. Laenyra smirked as his breathing quickened and dared to scrap her teeth along his neck. Aemond’s moan escaped through clenched teeth and she grinned to herself.

“Let me touch you.” He whispered hoarsely and her grin was practically full of evil glee.

“Patience.” She purred, a cat having caught a canary between her paws.

Aemond chuckled at her obvious joy in holding the power.

“Fuck patience.” He groaned as Laenyra straddled him properly, lowering her hips in such a teasing way he almost broke free.

“This is much more difficult for me than for you, my love.” She teased, revelling in his frustration and daring to graze her hips against his once again.

“Laenyra.” Aemond growled warningly, his patience disappearing.

“Ae-mond.” She sung with a grin, enjoying the change in power.

Laenyra continued the slow movements and chuckled as his hips bucked upwards. She could feel his hardness through their clothes, her dress thin enough for it to be obvious.

“Well this certainly explains a lot.” A voice spoke clearly from the edge of the garden and Laenyra yelped in shock, scrambling off of Aemond in such a hurry she tumbled slightly, landing poorly. Aemond stood quickly, assisting her up and placing himself sentry in front of her, not bothering to conceal his arousal as an anger built within him.

“Brother.” Aegon said with a terrible grin. Laenyra peaked at her other uncle over Aemond’s shoulder, her hands gripping his tightly.

“Aegon.” Aemond said steadfastly, his manner one of casualness as he regarded his older brother. “Come to pray to the weirwood tree?”

“No.” Aegon’s grin was predatory. “Simply taking a stroll in the gardens when I heard the most peculiar sounds.”

Laenyra flushed deep red and ducked her head to hide her colouring.

“I must say, I feared that someone was under attack so I came over to ensure there was no danger.” Aegon continued with a snide chuckle, side stepping in order to catch a better glimpse of Laenyra, though Aemond moved in tandem with his brother, ensuring she was blocked from view.

“We appreciate your concern, brother.” Aemond’s voice was unwavering, giving no hint to the tension Laenyra could feel in his shoulders, the preparedness to pounce. “However, as you can see, there is no danger here, you may go.”

“On the contrary, Aemond. There is a terrible potential of danger here.” His gaze switched to Laenyra, who resolved her inner embarrassment and moved to stand beside Aemond, her hand gripped tightly in his.

“What danger would that be?” She asked with a strong voice, she would not be intimidated by Aegon.

“Well the danger of you being unsatisfied, of course.” He said with a lecherous grin.

“Brother, quiet your tongue before you lose it.” Aemond said it in such a steady tone that Laenyra shuddered.

Aegon clearly saw the danger too and stepped back, giving himself a head-start should he have to run. But he was clearly having too much fun antagonising them.

“My brother has failed in the past to know what to do.” He continued, trying to humiliate them both further.

Laenyra frowned slightly at the mention of Aemond being with anyone else, he surely would have told her. There were no secrets between them, or so she thought.

Aegon clocked in on her expression though and knew he had struck something.

“Oh, he hasn’t told you?” He asked and laughed at Aemond’s furious expression. “Yes, I took him out when he was younger, to get it wet, and he had no idea what to do, a bit tragic really. There’s no shor-”

“Shut up Aegon!” Laenyra snapped, moving to stand in front of her prince, her blood was boiling at the idea of Aemond being put in such a position at a young age. “I don’t want to hear it and I don’t care.”

Aegon huffed childishly.

“I was merely attempting to offer my assistance.” He said petulantly.

“It is not needed.” She growled, heat rising as he dared to grin at her anger. Aemond placed a hand around her waist, squeezing gently.

“Our niece has a fire within her brother, but all women are the same once tamed. Just put her on her back and she’ll be moa-”

Aemond flew across the yard, too quick for Aegon to establish any defence and he grasped his brother by the throat, his eye ablaze with fury. Jabs at himself, he would tolerate, but an insult cast at his princess would not stand, not even from his brother.

“Do not mistake my tolerance for weakness, Aegon. If you should ever speak to Laenyra like that again, I vow you will never return from one of your nightly escapades.” He said, his voice as sharp as steel. “Do you understand?”

Aegon growled in frustration, attempting to break Aemond’s grip but failing as he squirmed.

“Yes, I understand.” He huffed and practically fled as soon as Aemond released him.

“He is a fool, Aemond, do not let him spoil our day.” Laenyra murmured and laid a hand on his arm, willing him to return to her side.

His eye was set on the entryway to the garden, his body tense and he stood still for a long moment before finally accepting that his brother would not return.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Laenyra murmured and pulled him down to her eye level, kissing his cheek softly.

Aemond shifted uncomfortably.

“It was a horrible experience and not one I wished to burden you with.” He explained quietly, avoiding her gaze.

Laenyra lifted his chin gently, forcing his eye to meet hers.

“It is my privilege to share the weight of your burdens, Aemond.” She spoke with a gentle but fierce tone, looking up at him with a fire within her. “I am tempted to enact vengeance on Aegon, though it is not my place to do so.”

Aemond smiled softly at her protective nature, the way they stood for one another. He leant to press his forehead against hers, the connection grounding him to her.

They stood in silence for a moment.

“Are you alright?” She asked quietly.

“Yes, it was a long time ago now.” Aemond was calm and Laenyra knew he did not wish to speak of it further so she suggested a distracting activity.

“Don’t you need to train for tomorrow?” She asked, offering a supportive smile.

“Perhaps we could visit Vhagar together instead, I would rather have you by my side.” Aemond asked, tucking a stray hair away.

The talk of dragons reminded her of something.

“You need to train for the tourney.” Laenyra said suddenly, an idea dawning, though not one she could tell Aemond about. “And I need to see Helaena.”

“I will accompany you and postpone training.” He offered and usually such an idea would be splendid.

“No, do not do that, I will go by myself, it has been a while since I spoke to Helaena alone.” Laenyra attempted a light tone, though Aemond immediately saw her nervousness spike.

“Very well.” He said slowly, regarding her in concern. “I will see you this evening, for dinner?”

“I think perhaps I may eat with Helaena and the children, I will miss her terribly and we can discuss tomorrow’s tourney together.”

If she could speak to Helaena alone, perhaps she could convince her. Though their journey would have to wait until after the tourney.

Aemond frowned at her casual mention of leaving, Laenyra had steadfastly refused to allow him to bring it up the past weeks and her new manner worried him. But he would not force his presence upon them, if Laenyra wished for him to join, she would have asked. It hurt him slightly, to see such a sudden shift in her demeanour, but he could not claim insult during such an upsetting time. The tourney was doing little to distract their family.

“I will come to your room though, if you wish it.” Laenyra said quickly, noticing his manner shift.

Aemond’s smile returned at once.

“I will always desire your company, my love.” He purred, his worry vanishing as Laenyra tugged almost shyly at his sleeves.

“So tonight?” She asked quietly, concerned she had offended him.

Aemond towered over her, nudging his nose against Laenyra’s to make her smile.

“Tonight.” He agreed and Laenyra stretched upwards to kiss him, meaning for it to be just a peck but Aemond was far too greedy and still remembering Aegon’s insults. He pulled her closer by her hips and she whimpered as his thigh slotted between her legs, the pressure so sudden and so delicious.

He groaned as Laenyra tugged at his hair gently, her own hands eager to lay claim.

Aemond chuckled at her eagerness, raising his leg slightly to remind her of how situated he was between her thighs. His princess whimpered softly, the feeling of his leg and hands and mouth overwhelming her.

Laenyra pulled away, breathless and warm. Though Aemond merely ducked his head, continuing to lay kisses down her jaw and neck. He chuckled as Laenyra squirmed beneath his touch, letting him draw such lovely sounds.

“I um- I need to, uh.” She stuttered abysmally, attempted to reclaim her thoughts despite Aemond’s touch.

“Hmm.” It was more of a growl against Laenyra’s throat. She laughed breathlessly and finally managed to put distance between herself and Aemond.

“I will visit Helaena and you will train for the tourney.” Laenyra put up a finger and a stern expression and Aemond almost melted to the floor at the sight of her attempting such sternness.

“Of course, princess.” He said with an obedient bow.

“I will see you later tonight.” She grinned and skipped out of reach as Aemond attempted to seize her again.

“Until tonight then.” He huffed at her quickness but allowed her to sit, knowing he did need to practice.

Aemond would leave nothing to chance when it came to fighting for Laenyra, though what could she possibly have to say to Helaena that he couldn’t hear?

_____________________

Tags: @grungegrrrl @daddysfavoritesexkitten @neenieweenie @m-indkiller @thelittleswanao3 @scarlettmoon98 @graykageyama @burningshewolf

Let me know if you wanna be tagged x

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terrorcheerarc · 2 years

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ok so before i jump into drafts / starters i just ! i am fully obsessed with chrissy taking max under wing and becoming her big sister. especially in my survival verse where chrissy joins the hawkins gang i just . them sharing their trauma, being able to talk about everything they saw with someone who actually understands. having real heart to hearts about their troubled families and being able to share things they wouldn’t be able to with anything else. and even silly things like chrissy giving max advice about lucas and max teasing chrissy about her taste in music . i just !!

all this to say i think chrissy would be absolutely cut up about what happens to max, and would be absolutely wrecked with survivors guilt. in my second survival verse specifically (mentioned above, where chrissy joins the hawkins gang) she would have gone with max, lucas, and erica to the creel house. for the most part she gives lucas and max their space, watching out the window from the next room for erica’s signal to start phase two.

as chrissy survived vecna’s attack there would have been another victim taken in her place, and so her connection to vecna is very weak. she doesn’t need music to stay grounded, though often finds herself singing under her breath as a calm/coping mechanism. so though she tried to volunteer in max’s place, it was decided that the plan would have a better chance at succeeding if max distracted vecna. still, as max lifted from the ground she begged and pleaded with vecna to let her go. to take chrissy instead. but her pleas were ignored. she runs for help with erica when max is finally released but close to death, calling an ambulance from a payphone nearby. the ‘earthquake’ hits while she’s on the phone, and she returns to with the paramedics to find max alive but unresponsive and jason gone.

of course afterwards there are questions. she spends too much time with the hawkins police, clearing eddie’s name from her kidnapping (reminding them she had run away) and the murders. after all, he couldn’t have murdered anyone if she had been with him the whole time. once she’s finally free she spends most of the time in the hospital with max, reading her agony aunt columns she thinks max would find funny. playing her music from a mixtape she made for max specifically, full of songs max would definitely make fun of her for liking. brings new flowers every week to replace the ones in the vase by the window.

basically. max is very special to chrissy.

#i made myself emotional over this today #of course this is open to changes based on things plotted with max muns but !#this is my default for vol 2 in this verse #♥ ∙ › survival au version two.#st spoilers #st4 spoilers #vol 2 spoilers #♥ ∙ › headcanon.

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loorain · 1 year

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Sims 4 Fontenot Legacy - Graduation, Family Vacation

The end of Sabrina's final semester in college is uneventful. They grind, study, write essays, and do presentations.

After finals, Sabrina packs up their stuff and moves out of the dorm they spent their time in uni in.

Sabrina: See ya never losers!

And as winter settles in the Britechester area, Sabrina gets ready for a day they weren't sure they'd ever have: graduation day!

Scarlett: You did it! I'm so proud of you honey!

Sabrina: Thanks, Mom. I'm glad you two could make it.

Robin: Wouldn't miss it!

After posing for a family picture, the trio head home and pack the rest of their things for their family trip to Sulani!

The weather in Sulani is far better than most of the other worlds, so the family is more than thrilled to enjoy a warm winter in the clear blue waters.

Sigrid: This vista is beautiful! How did you find such a nice place that would fit all of us?

Robin: It wasn't too difficult. I'm glad you like it. I really thought a family trip is what we all needed.

Sigrid: Yes, but Robin, I'm not exactly part of the family. Is it okay for me to be here? You guys probably need some alone time after everything--

Robin: Of course you're part of the family. You've been a part of my life for so long and have been with me through many moments, even my father's funeral. You are part of our family just like everyone else.

Robin: I planned this vacation for all of us to get some much-needed relaxation and bonding time. I want to spend this trip with you just as much as I do with my sisters or my aunt or my nephew. Let's just have fun, okay?

Sigrid: Okay. I love you.

Robin: I love you too.

As evening falls over the house, Anya and Sabrina enjoy some time in the hot tub.

Anya: Can you believe my silly brother is actually going to be engaged?

Sabrina: It is a thought that seems a little unbelievable, yet it makes sense at the same time. Those two have been together for so long, I'm sort of shocked he didn't do it sooner.

Anya: I guess that's true. Well, what about you? Any new flames?

Sabrina: There've been a few here and there, but nothing's stuck so far. I've just been enjoying sowing my oats.

Anya: Oooh, Sabrina!

Sabrina: Hey, men get to do it all the time, why can't I?

Anya: That's true. Can't say I didn't have my own share of drama before marriage.

Sabrina: And how's that going for you?

Anya: I have to say, it's really great. There were many days I was unsure of my relationship with Haru. I wasn't sure I could be the woman he deserved. But things changed. I changed. I'm happy being a wife and, shockingly, a mother too. I just can't believe I have a teenager.

Sabrina: Yeah... we're not kids anymore. I still feel like I am many days though. I feel like I'm falling behind you guys.

Anya: What? You just graduated from college! You're about to start your career! You're not behind just because you don't have love yet.

Sabrina: It's just... I'm so confused, Anya. I thought I knew what I wanted, but as soon as I went for it everything started falling apart.

Anya: Hey, life isn't straightforward. You remember my struggles. I was unsure of my future. But things always work themselves out. What's for you will come to you. But if you ever need to vent, I'm always here.

Sabrina: Thank you.

Anya: Hey, that's what family's for.

Eventually, the trio end up in the kitchen while Sabrina whips up something to eat.

Anya: So, everything's ready?

Robin: Yup.

Anya: That's all I get? A "yup"? You must be nervous

Robin: *sigh* I am.

Robin takes a seat at the island.

Robin: I just want it to be perfect.

Anya: And it will be. You've prepared. It'll be splendid.

Robin: What if I drop the ring, or stumble over my words, or--

Anya: Do you love her?

Robin: ...Yes. With all my heart.

Anya: And she loves you. It'll be fine. She'll say yes. It'll be wonderful. Don't worry.

Sabrina: Anya's right. You two were made for each other.

Robin takes a deep breath.

Robin: Thank you both. For everything.

Sabrina: We three have been together longer than we can remember. We've all been through our share of tests.

Anya: It has been a long time. And now look at us. Finding love, starting careers, building families of our own. I'm proud of us.

Sabrina: No matter what, let's always stick together.

Robin: Always.

#ts4 simblr #simblr #ts4 #sims 4 #sims 4 legacy #sims 4 legacy challenge #sims 4 modded #sims 4 fontenot legacy

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abimess · 2 years

Text

An Unforgettable Christmas Trip

Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Masterlist | Library Blog

Summary: Being the son of divorced parents, Billy has never experienced a Christmas with his whole family. A whimsical plan may solve not only this wish but also the dormant ones of both his parents.

Warnings: angst with happy ending || Word count: 12.591

Pronouns: she/her

Okay this is just gigantic hahaha but I liked it a lot, I hope you like it too

You do NOT have permission to repost or translate my work on any platforms (even with credit)

For this request | Christmas Special Masterlist

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For some, Christmas was not always like those in the movies. For Billy, there was no family gathered around the table, sharing love and gifts; rather, each Christmas was spent in a different place, one time at one mother's house, one time at another.

Not that the boy didn't love his Christmases. In fact, he loved the holiday and he loved his families even more.

But what the boy would really love is the opportunity to spend Christmas with both his parents, together. At least once.

So Billy, with the help of his Uncle Pietro and Aunt Natasha, put into practice his ingenious plan that had everything to work out... Or not.

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"What's up kiddo, how was the last day of school?"

You and Billy walk back to the car side by side, his backpack in your hands while the boy carries some Christmas cards in his with a bit of difficulty.

"It was great." He replies happily as you help him with his seat belt and you smile, "Riri invited me to her house for the weekend."

"Oh, that's nice." You say, getting into the driver's seat and driving back home. "Yeah, but I can't go. I'm going ice skating with Mom and Aunt Jean."

"Aunt Jean, huh? Are they close?" You scold yourself before the question has even finished coming out of your mouth, but it seems that everything to do with Wanda has a way of sending away all your self-control. Even after all these years.

"I think so." The boy replies, distractedly playing with a Darth Vader doll he had left in the car this morning. "But not really, I asked mom if she likes Aunt Jean as she liked you and she said no."

"Is that so?" You ask in amusement, smiling at the boy's innocence. Billy doesn't seem to realize that he has said too much. "Mhm, she said she only liked you like that."

Your heart gives an immediate flip to that information. It has been nine years since you and Wanda divorced and that information is only not surprising to you because you feel the same way.

In your case, you have never been able to love anyone else because your heart has always been Wanda's. You wonder whether it's the same with her, or whether your relationship was traumatic enough to prevent her from trying something with other people. Clearing your throat, you push those thoughts away.

"Okay, that's enough, now. Your mother wouldn't like to know we're talking about her." You say looking at Billy through the rearview mirror, but the boy doesn't even react, his eyes glazed over at the doll in his hands. "What do you want for dinner?"

"Pizza!" The excited shout echoes through the car, his eyes flying up to meet yours through the rearview mirror. "Wow, that was very lively." You comment with a chuckle, "Okay, I guess we can order pizza."

Billy celebrates in the back seat and you smile lovingly at the scene. You continue the quick ride home in silence.

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A few hours later you and Billy are sitting at the kitchen table, both of you already bathed while you eat your dinner.

You chat some more about school or whatever subject Billy brings up, from scenes from movies or cartoons he likes to theories about how there are dinosaurs living in space. You listen to it all wholeheartedly.

After a while, however, you become silent. You notice that Billy is pensive, barely touching the slice of pizza on his plate. Before you can ask, he's speaking. "Mama?"

"Yes, dear?" You respond tenderly, giving him your full attention. "Is it okay if I spend Christmas with you?" he asks and you smile confused since this year the boy was supposed to spend Christmas with Wanda. "Of course, my love, but what does your mother think about that?"

"She doesn't mind." He answers simply, "I asked her, she said it's okay since you do it for her all the time." He explains and you nod slowly.

In your shared custody, you have determined that each week Billy will stay with one of you. As for the holidays, you usually took turns.

In the early years of the divorce things were more complicated, you and Wanda avoided each other like the plague, and any opportunity to not see each other was welcomed by both of you.

But as the years went by, and the hurts and resentments went away, being relieved by the filter of maturity and replaced by longing, you tried to reconnect.

Nothing much, just spending a few dates together, like Billy's birthday, for example. Wanda, however, didn't think the same way.

The redhead, besides blocking any of your attempts, spoke to you as little as possible and always on subjects that could not be discussed with anyone else. In time, you also stopped trying.

But you would always have a soft heart for Wanda, that is something you would never be able to hide.

Wanda, as a professor of 'Television: History and Culture' at New York University, works too much and misses a few holidays now and then.

You know that the redhead loves her son deeply, as much as you do. So, having a more flexible work schedule than hers, you end up giving up some of your holidays to her, even if you have already made plans for the day.

You know she feels grateful for that, even if she doesn't show it, and that's enough.

"Well, I'm glad we're spending Christmas together, son. But may I know why?" you ask curiously, but trying to make it clear that you are more than happy to spend Christmas with him, and Billy smiles shyly before answering. "I wanted to go to Westview this year."

Westview is one of the most famous Christmas Towns in the United States. The entire town looks like it was taken straight out of a movie. With its whimsically decorated streets, events, and activities, the place is a true winter wonderland.

"Uncle Pietro offered the trip, but mom couldn't go because she'll be working so I asked her to go with you and she let me. Billy casually explains and you blink a few times in confusion.

"Oh-oh, easy there, what did you say? Pietro offered the trip?" you question in disbelief, but the boy nods with determination and you take a deep breath. "Look, kid, it's not that I don't believe you, but I'm gonna need to call him to confirm this, okay?"

"Okay." He agrees nonchalantly, and you look at him for a moment, suspiciously. The whole thing was very strange, to say the least.

"Can I play video games now?" The kid asks as he finishes the slice of pizza he was eating. "Sure, kid." You agree and giggle as the boy immediately gets up with a grin from ear to ear on his face and rushes off to his room.

"But brush your teeth first!" You shout and when you get a confirmation of the same tone, you smile.

After cleaning up the mess and putting away the leftover slices of pizza in the refrigerator, you decide to call Pietro to confirm what Billy had said during dinner.

With Wanda avoiding you almost every chance she got, Pietro became the main intermediary between the two of you. As a result, naturally, the two of you have grown closer over the years.

So the conversation is relaxed and pleasant, and your former brother-in-law confirms his nephew's exact words, much to your surprise.

He says that Billy has spent the entire last week talking about Westview and he, sympathetic to the boy's wishes, has decided to give the trip as a gift to him.

The initial idea was that he would go with Wanda since he would be spending this Christmas with her. But the redhead would be involved in a new project at the University until the 24th and would not be able to go. So the arrangement was that he would go with you.

With all this information confirmed, you then talk some more updating each other on your lives.

You try hard not to ask about Wanda, but the question slips out anyway. Pietro says she's fine but jokes that you should call and ask her yourself. You just laugh awkwardly at that.

When the call ends you stare at your cell phone, wondering if you should call Wanda or not. Knowing that the redhead wouldn't want to talk to you, you give up. Instead, you decide to distract yourself with some TV.

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Today is Sunday the 13th. Tomorrow is the day that Wanda would leave Billy with you and see him only the following Monday. The routine has been the same for nine years now, but the redhead always felt a twinge of longing for her son.

As on every Sunday, Wanda prepares a snack, cake, and treats that she knows her son loves. The two sit down at the kitchen table when everything is ready.

Instead of chatting, as usual, Wanda notices her son quieter, eating quietly as his attention wanders often.

"What are you thinking about, Billy?" she asks curiously, a gentle smile on her lips, and Billy raises his eyes to her. "Christmas." He answers and she smiles broadly. "Oh yeah? What about Christmas?"

"I wanted to go to Westview with you." The boy confesses and Wanda's eyes widen slightly in surprise. "I was talking to Mama and she said it was a great idea. She even said she would give the trip to me as a Christmas present."

"How's that?" Wanda asks, blinking a few times at how quickly that conversation escalated. That wasn't surprising, though, you've always been very... generous with your money, in the redhead's eyes. In fact, Wanda has been annoyed by this several times, thinking that you were just trying to show off.

"It's true! Mama and Aunt Nat have organized everything. We're going on the 19th!" The boy announces excitedly, and Wanda feels a twinge in her heart at that. "Oh, my love," she says apologetically, "I'm sorry, but I can't make it that day, I won't be in New York."

It's just bad luck that the trip was scheduled for the exact weekend that she would be out of town at a film event to accompany her advisee student. Wanda wonders if this was indeed a coincidence, but quickly dismisses the thoughts. There is no way you could have known about this.

"I know! I told them. Aunt Nat thought about it too, she said she was going to take me." Billy tells and Wanda knits her eyebrows together in disbelief. "Your aunt is going to make a four-hour drive just to drop you off at a hotel?"

In response, the boy nods eagerly and Wanda takes a deep breath, running her hands through her hair as she thinks. "Okay, darling, this is all very confusing. I'll have to discuss this further with your aunt, okay?"

Again Billy nods and Wanda nods too, an assuring smile on her lips. "Good. Go shower now before it gets late."

The boy then thanks his mother for the snack with a kiss on the cheek and Wanda watches him walk away with a tender smile on her lips.

With her head full of thoughts, the woman devotes herself to organizing the kitchen.

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In the living room, Wanda paces back and forth.

All this talk about traveling is very confusing and even suspicious. She needed to talk to the adults involved to fully understand what was going on.

After staring at your contact several and several times, the redhead gives up.

Her relationship with you was quite complicated and more complicated than that only her feelings. With all these years, Wanda imagined that what she felt for you would pass away, would be lost with time.

Instead, the feeling seemed to increase, to the point of making it unbearable just the thought of interacting with you. With all the mixed feelings and complicated history between the two of you, Wanda thought that keeping you away was the best thing to do. And that is exactly what she did, exactly what she would continue to do.

So she looks up the contact on the list and brings the cell phone to her ear. When the person on the other end of the line answers, she says, "Good evening, Natasha, it's Wanda here."

"You don't have to say that, dear, your number is saved on my cell phone," Nat says with amusement and the redhead just giggles shyly. "So, Billy was telling me about a trip you and Y/n organized."

"Yeah, it was Billy's idea, actually, and you know how that one does everything for that boy. But Y/n is terrible at organizing trips, so I stepped in." Natasha tells with humor, but Wanda is still just as confused. "Right... About the ride there-"

"Oh don't worry about it! I'll be working around the area. You know the Wakanda Indian Reservation?" Natasha asks and Wanda hums a confirmation. "There's having suspected embezzlement of public money there. I'm finishing up a case here in the city, but I'm going there right after. I was going to leave on Friday, but I can delay without any problems. That fits in with your schedule, doesn't it?"

"Yes, but... Are you sure about this?" Wanda asks hesitantly. She hates to depend on others. "Of course! No problem at all." Nat confirms and Wanda ponders for a moment.

Although this whole situation seems very unusual, the trip was clearly very important to Billy. Besides, it's clear that a lot of planning was put in place to make it happen, she would hate to be the person who messes it up.

"Okay... All right then, Nat, if anything I'll call you again." She answers finally. "No problem! Good night, Wanda!" The former sister-in-law says goodbye, and as soon as she says her goodbyes as well, Wanda hangs up the phone.

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A few hours later, lying in bed after putting Billy to sleep, Wanda can barely close her eyes. She still needs to talk to you.

But since calling you was not an option, she takes the cell phone from the nightstand and types a message.

Hello, Y/n. Are you in agreement with the trip?

Wanda grimaces at the text, not even with her boss is she that formal. But if that's what it takes to keep you away, then that's what she would do. Before she can put her cell phone back in its place, the device buzzes in her hands.

Hey, Wanda! Of course, I'm sure Billy will have a great time =)

She read your message with her heart in her hands, just imagining you saying those words affected her in a way that honestly should be forbidden. She could only be grateful that she hadn't decided to call you.

Ok.

She answers coldly and locks the cell phone. That was enough. As soon as she puts the phone on the bedside table it buzzes again, the screen lighting up with a new notification from you.

Good night!

Wanda stares at the message until the screen goes off again. Instead of answering, she lies down, turning her back to the device. And although she tries with all her might to sleep, she takes a long time to do so.

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Finally, the day of the trip has come, and after lunch, you put your and Billy's luggage in the car. As you go back into the house to get the last of your luggage, you see Billy standing in front of the door, a small backpack on his back and the Darth Vader doll in his hands.

You giggle at the adorable scene and motion with your head for the boy to go to the car. With a huge grin on his face, he does.

"Okay, buddy, ready to spend four hours in a car?" You ask humorously, helping him to put on his seat belt. "Ready!" he replies promptly, making you laugh. "I'm so excited."

"That's great, son! I'm sure we'll have a great time." You assure, getting into the car and starting it. "Me too." He says, looking out the windows in wonder as if that was already part of the great adventure he was about to experience and not his neighborhood. You smile lovingly.

You turn on the stereo then and some generic songs you both like start playing. "Mama!" Billy scolds and you look at him through the rearview mirror in confusion.

"Put on some Christmas songs!" He asks, almost demanding, and you giggle. "Yes, sir," you reply, searching for a Christmas playlist on the music app right away.

To the sound of traditional Christmas music, you make your way to Westview. Focused on the road, you don't notice Billy's accomplished smile.

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Because of heavy snowfall in Ottawa, Wanda's flight is delayed and now she rushes into the hotel, scolding herself for keeping Natasha waiting, even though it's not even her fault.

Running her eyes around the place, Wanda has trouble locating her former sister-in-law and her son, the place being full of families. But not long after, she sees Billy, and upon seeing who is accompanying him, she freezes.

"Wanda..." You let out in a breath, clearly as surprised to see her as she is to see you, and Wanda swallows hard. Soon after, you smile, "You look stunning."

"Hi, Y/n, that's... Highly inappropriate." She scolds, her heart beating dangerously fast inside her chest. What the hell is going on? "What are you doing here? I thought Natasha was coming to drop him off."

"Drop him off? Billy asked to spend Christmas here, me and him. He said it was a gift from Pietro or something." You reply, a confused expression on your face and it is Wanda's turn to do the same.

"Pietro didn't even know we were coming before I told him." She tells you and you grimace, visibly lost with the whole situation. "He said he was going to pay for the trip."

"Well, I heard you were going to pay for the trip. Your sister confirmed it." Wanda says, crossing her arms, and you widen your eyes. "I didn't pay anything." You say but then smile crookedly, looking at Billy beside you. "I think we were set up."

"Billy, what's this all about?" Wanda asks, breathing slowly as she tries to keep her cool. Billy looks down at his feet. "Sorry, don't be mad at me. It's just that every time I spend Christmas with one of you I miss the other. I just wanted to spend Christmas with both of you."

"Hey," you call softly, kneeling in front of Billy and asking with your hand under his chin for him to look at you too, "don't worry, buddy, nobody here is mad at you. We can do this, if it's important to you. Right, Wanda?"

Wanda clenches her jaw in response, her gaze shifting between you and Billy as her mind races at a thousand per hour. This is not good.

"Good afternoon, family, do you have accommodations yet?" A hotel employee approaches before she can answer and you and Wanda nod in confirmation. He then guides you to the counter. "Great, which number is it?"

"7." You and Wanda answer at the same time and the redhead laughs humorlessly. "Oh, that's wonderful."

You look at Billy then, and when the boy smiles innocently at you, you laugh through your nose, shaking your head. What a setup.

After you have settled the reservation issues, a pair of staff members approach you and take the luggage of the three of you with them. When you look at Wanda, she looks almost furious.

"We'd better talk to our siblings about this." She says, walking away immediately afterward and giving you no room to say anything more. You take a deep breath and then turn your attention back to Billy. "Hey, buddy, wait here, okay?"

"Is mom mad at me?" He asks sadly and you smile reassuringly, kneeling in front of him once again. "No, she's not, my love. She's just confused by all this. It's a rather complicated situation, don't you think?"

"I think so." He halfheartedly confirms and you smile once more before standing up. "I'll be right back."

So you stand just far enough away for privacy, keeping your eyes always on Billy, and pick up your phone.

"Nat! Hi! I was about to tell you about something amazing that happened to me, but I think you already know." You say ironically as soon as she answers, and it takes a few seconds for her to do so. "Are you mad?"

"I just want to understand what's going on." You answer honestly, squeezing your eyes shut with your fingers. "What's Wanda doing here?"

"Billy wanted a holiday with you two so we helped." She answers and you frown. "We?" You ask, confused. "Yes, me and Pietro." She answers casually and you laugh through your nose, the pieces falling into place. "What-"

"Look, just take your chance okay?" she interrupts you next, and you let her talk. "You keep talking about her being the true love of your life so are you gonna keep whining or are you gonna do something about it?"

"Very motivating." You complain sarcastically, rolling your eyes. "I know, I'm great. Hang up now and go enjoy the holiday with your family. Good luck." She says and hangs up shortly after. Taking the cell phone away from your face, you breathe heavily.

Meanwhile, Wanda is talking to Pietro, smoke about to come out of her ears. As soon as her brother answers, she snaps. "Pietro? What's this about?"

"Don't hate me." He answers and Wanda lets out a giggle totally devoid of humor. "It's pretty hard not to."

"It was all Billy's idea I just.... agreed," Pietro argues and the redhead scoffs. "If you, a grown man, are trying to shift the blame to a 10-year-old boy I swear-"

"Hey, easy there, sister! I'm just trying to help you out here." Pietro defends himself then and Wanda frowns in confusion. "And how exactly are you doing that?"

"By giving you a chance to be happy again." He answers promptly, but Wanda rolls her eyes. That was ridiculous. "Come on."

"I know you got hurt and it didn't work out, but it's been nine years. You two have changed and you know it." Pietro argues, but Wanda refuses to let his words affect her. She can't. "Give Y/n a chance again. Give yourself a chance."

"I'm only doing this for my son. After this trip, it's over." She answers resolutely and hangs up the phone right away.

When she looks at Billy again, she sees him in the same place, you standing next to him. When her eyes meet yours, you offer her a small, uncertain smile and Wanda clenches her jaw tightly.

This trip would be a disaster.

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The hotel staff guides you to your accommodations. The lodge is arranged in tiny cottages that look very nice and comfortable.

The lights along the way and the snow accumulated on the ground give the whole place an even cozier appearance.

When you arrive at your cabin, you thank the staff and then enter the place. Unlike outside, the room is warm, the heat being provided by the fireplace in the corner of the room.

The interior is all decorated, with Christmas lights and a tree full of ornaments in the corner. The living room has a large sofa facing a TV and a large coffee table, a fluffy rug under them. Next to the door are your luggage.

Spliced into the living room is a kitchen. It's simple, a stove, a refrigerator, and a countertop with some small stools around it. You imagine that it has everything you will need, though.

Wanda seems calmer now. She talks with Billy animatedly, although she completely ignores your presence. At least it's progress, you imagine.

The redhead instructs the boy to take his luggage and organize it in his room. Stepping a little further into the small cottage, you see three doors. One to a bathroom and the other two leading to the bedrooms. That will be a problem.

As soon as you have checked that everything is okay with Billy in his room, Wanda goes into the other room. You decide to follow her.

Just like Billy's room, there is a bed in the center and a huge window overlooking the outside, just snow and forest in sight.

It would be a beautiful sight to behold if you weren't busy trying to sort out the mess your sister and your ex-brother-in-law have put you in.

"Are we going to talk about it?" You ask and it takes a moment for Wanda to turn to you. "There's nothing to talk about." She replies, avoiding your gaze at all costs. "Our son and our siblings set us up, and now we're stuck here until the 26th."

"Look, I know things are complicated between us, but we're already here." You reply, your tone appeasing. "We can cancel this trip. Or we can do it for Billy."

Wanda stares at you then, thoughtful, and you hold her gaze as reassuringly as you can. "For Billy." She answers finally. "And you'll sleep on the couch." She adds firmly, and you laugh through your nose. It was what you expected, anyway.

"No problem, boss." You respond humorously as you walk back to the door. "Don't do that." She says immediately and you look at her, stopping in your spot. "What?"

"You know what." She answers, her voice fragile, and then turns her back to you, busying herself with something else in the room. When the realization hits, you close your eyes.

Wanda used to be a control freak, and to tease her about it you always said "no problem, boss" when she told you to do something. It was an innocent line, it came out without you even realizing it. But it clearly brought back unwanted memories. You would have to police yourself from now on.

Not having anything else to say, you leave the room.

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By the time you have finished organizing everything, it's about 8 o'clock.

You end up arranging your things along with Billy's in his room. You even thought about asking Wanda if you could leave your things there since the closet is bigger. But you immediately dismissed the idea, knowing that the chances of her throwing her suitcase at your head were high.

While Billy is taking a shower, you take a look in the kitchen and find the basics there: some snacks, bottles of water, and soda. When you hear footsteps coming toward the living room, you turn around.

Wanda doesn't look at you, sitting down on the sofa and distracted by her cell phone. She looks beautiful, in casual clothes, and with her hair wet over her shoulders. Before you can say anything stupid, you turn around and go back to rummaging through the cupboards.

Not having anything else to look at in the kitchen, you go into the living room as well, but you sit in the armchair furthest away from Wanda, knowing she wouldn't want you anywhere near her.

The redhead makes a discreet grimace that you can't quite read, but soon returns to her previous posture, and you sigh. That woman is a real enigma.

It doesn't take long before new footsteps are heard, and you smile at the sight of Billy in his dinosaur pajamas, his favorite.

"Hey, buddy, what you wanna do first?" You ask Billy, who sits in the armchair between you and Wanda. "We could watch a movie together!" He suggests excitedly, looking from you to Wanda, and you gulp.

"That's a great idea." You agree, trying with all your might to pretend you're not noticing the anger of the woman in the room. "We could order room service and-"

"I'll get the phone." Wanda interrupts you, suddenly getting up and heading for the bedroom. You look at Billy again, casting him the most encouraging smile you can manage. "Let's go pick a movie then."

A little less than half an hour later the three of you are on the couch, a classic Christmas movie on the TV as you each eat your chosen meal.

The food is good and the atmosphere is nice. And all the time you have to remind yourself that this is not real. This is only a few days trip. After that, Wanda will return to avoiding you at all costs and you will again miss her every moment of every day.

But for now, you allow yourself to enjoy the moment, dangerous as it is, and your eyes constantly travel to the redhead sitting next to you on the couch, only Billy separating the two of you.

Wanda, on the other hand, was well aware of your eyes on her. Even though she tried as hard as she could to ignore it, she could feel your gaze burning her skin. It takes all of the redhead's willpower not to look back, and the two hours of the movie seem to pass like days.

The movie finally ends though, and Wanda sighs with relief that she can finally go back to her room. At the same time, however, a feeling of longing takes over for a brief moment, wishing she could stay with you a little longer. She quickly pushes it away.

"Alright, champ, bedtime." You say, tickling Billy, who laughs out loud, rousing the redhead from her conflicting thoughts. Before you can get up for good, you look at her. "Do you want to put him to bed?"

"No, you can go," Wanda says dismissively and you nod slowly. "Can you two put me to bed? Please?"

"I don't see why not." You reply, looking at Wanda and the redhead gives you a brief forced smile before getting up as well.

After the boy takes care of his nightly hygiene, the three of you head up to Billy's room. As you carry the boy to the bed, Wanda busies herself with turning the night lights on.

By the time you kissed his cheek and wished him your goodnights, The redhead approaches the bed. As Wanda leans in to place a kiss on Billy's forehead, a fond smile on her lips, you can't help but watch her in awe.

"This is already the best trip ever." The kid says with a happy smile and looks between the two of you with sleepy eyes. Wanda forcers a smile, but you can feel her tensing up by your side. "Enough talk now, we have a long day tomorrow."

"See you tomorrow, kiddo." You say, tapping his foot lightly before leaving the room. You hold the door for Wanda, but she doesn’t look at you as she passes you by. You try not to be too hurt about it.

You think about inviting her to do something, to watch TV or even to talk again, even though the idea sounds stupid even in your head. By the time you close Billy’s door, however, Wanda is already rushing to her bedroom, disappearing from your sight in a second.

Sighing heavily in surrender, you get ready for bed. Or rather, for the couch.

Seeing Wanda again awakened thoughts and feelings that throughout all these years you have been able to suppress. Now, however, they’re all back, and just being in the same room as her made your heart beat dangerously faster.

She seems to be as far away from this as one possibly can and that alone was enough to make you want to hide everything you’re feeling even more. Even though sometimes it seemed like an impossible task to accomplish.

You finally lay down, but with so many thoughts in mind, sleep takes a long time to get to you.

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The next morning, things are surprisingly better.

Wanda says good morning to you when she sees you in the living room and you take half a second to realize she was indeed talking to you.

During the whole process of getting ready to go to the hotel restaurant, Billy talks about a bunch of things, being the chatty kid he is, and Wanda participates even on the subjects you were actively involved in, exchanging a few comments with you as well from time to time.

You have no idea how so much has changed in just one night, maybe it was indeed a Christmas miracle. Whatever it was, you wouldn't ask, afraid that the redhead would go back to her hostile behavior towards you.

As for Wanda, she was trying. She had barely slept during the night, her mind racing a thousand miles an hour. Too busy trying to protect her feelings, keeping her barriers up, she didn't even notice how it all affected Billy.

At that moment, however, passed the first shock, she did. This trip is important to Billy, he put his mind and heart to it- not to mention his uncle and aunt. The least she could do is play along. It's just a few days, after all, how much harm can it do?

So here she was, keeping you at arm's length, but acting as friendly as she can act.

After having breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, Billy asked to visit the wax museum, and there you went.

Westview is such a small village that you barely see cars in the streets. Everyone seems to go everywhere on foot and that's what you decided to do as well. A little bit after 10 minutes, you get there.

The museum is beautiful and bigger than you expect, considering the surroundings. The place is all decorated with Christmas lights and dolls that move and sing famous carols.

At the beginning of the tour, there are exclusively Christmas figures. But as you wandered into the museums, assorted wax figures began to appear, from celebrities and political personalities to characters from TV series and movies.

"Mom, can I go see the Star Wars figures?" Billy asked excitedly, pulling on Wanda's blouse, and you both giggle. "Sure, honey, but stay close." The kid doesn't even wait for the introductions and is already walking away towards the Star Wars section. You smile.

"He loves Star Wars." You say proudly and Wanda glances at you briefly before looking back at her son. "I know." She says and you smile amused. "He has very good taste."

"He also loves sitcoms, you know?" She retorts with a raise of her eyebrows and you laugh through your nose. "Yeah, I notice you're trying to turn the kid into an old man."

"Oh, shut up." Wanda rolls her eyes at the teasing but smiles as well, and you allow yourself to giggle softly. "I never hated sitcoms, you know." You confess, and Wanda looks at you confusedly. "I kind of liked them."

"You spent our whole relationship pretending to hate sitcoms?" She asks perplexedly and you answer with a shrug of your shoulder. She frowns. "Why?"

"I don't know," you answer, shrugging again, "you always looked hot when you were mad at me." You explain and Wanda takes a deep breath, looking away from you. "Y/n, don't."

"What? I just answered your question." You retort, and before Wanda can scold you again, Billy comes running towards you. "Mom, Mama, look! I made a friend!"

By his side, there's a little girl that's probably the same age as him smiling politely at the two of you. "Hi!" She says shily and you smile as you crouch down in front of her. "Hi, little girl, what's your name?"

"It's Morgan." She answers promptly and you smile at her. "That's a beautiful name," Wanda says, bending down and smiling at the girl as well. "Tell me, Morgan, where are your parents?"

"Morgan!" You all hear a male voice before the little girl can answer, and soon a blonde man approaches you. "I told you to stay close to us!" He scolds but doesn't really sound mad, and the girl smiles apologetically.

"She's just as stubborn as her father." He says, looking at you and Wanda, and you both giggle politely. "Daddy, I made a friend!" Morgan tells, poking her father's leg, and the blonde looks down again.

"Hey, sir." Billy greets as he waves his hand and you smile at your child's cuteness. "Hey, buddy, what's your name?" The man asks tenderly and the boy takes no time to answer, "I'm Billy."

"Nice to meet you, Billy." The blonde says with a smile, looking back at you and Wanda. "Sorry to bother you." He says with an apologetic grimace, but you smile dismissively.

"Not at all, she's a lovely little girl." You say, looking at Morgan again before looking back at the man. "I'm Y/n." You introduce yourself, offering your hand for the man to take, and he promptly does so. "And this is-"

"I'm Wanda." The redhead interrupts, not wanting to go through any awkward moment, and offers her hand as well. "A pleasure to meet you, I'm Steve."

"There you are! I was just about to call security." A second man approaches you, looking at Steve after glancing at the rest of the group, and the blonde smiles. "It's okay, honey, she was in good company."

"That's good to know." The dark-haired man says, shifting his gaze between you and Wanda as he smiles. "Nice to meet you, I'm Tony." He introduces himself and the two of you do the same.

"We should hang out sometime, it's always nice to meet couples like us," Tony says excitedly, but Wanda soon shakes her head. "We're not together."

"Oh." Tony lets out, surprised, and you press your lips together in a small smile. "Well, but the invitation still stands, if you guys want it. The hotel restaurant is very nice, and there's a playground for the kids."

The two kids let out their enthusiastic comments and you smile as you nod. "That sounds nice, what do you think?" You ask cautiously, looking at Wanda. Even though she seems uncertain, she nods. "Sure, it sounds like fun."

"Great! We can meet later, around 8?" The man with the goatee suggests and you and Wanda nod in confirmation. "Sounds great."

With that, the three of them say their goodbyes and leave. You and Wanda keep roaming around the museum, following Billy anywhere he wants to go. Neither of you talk about the dinner after that.

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When the evening comes, the three of you go to the restaurant. The place is completely different from how it was this morning. The tables were rearranged, the decorations are darker, giving the area an air of refinement.

You approach the table Steve and Tony's family are in, and you greet each other again. Soon enough, Billy and Morgan ask if they can go to the playground, and they happily do once you allow it.

When the children are gone, Tony calls the waiter and asks for a bottle of wine and four glasses. You then make some small talk, and the drink doesn't take long to arrive.

"So," the man with the goatee starts, his gaze shifting between you and Wanda, "what brought you here?" He asks with a smile, and you let out a clumsy laugh.

"A trap," Wanda murmurs against the rim of her glass, taking a short sip of her drink afterward. By the expressions of the two men, they don't seem to have heard. "Billy wanted to spend Christmas with the two of us, so we ended up coming here."

"That's nice, divorced parents who are friends," Steve says, and you smile awkwardly. By your side, Wanda scoffs. "I don't know if I would use that word."

"So, Tony, you said you work with cars, right?" You asked right away, trying to change the subject, and it works.

The night goes smoothly after that. You drink, eat and talk. It doesn't take long for you to notice that Tony and Steve are very nice people and you truly enjoy their company.

You don't drink much, but you haven't drunk in a long time, so it doesn't take long for the alcohol to kick in, and you start feeling a little slow.

Wanda is a little quiet at first but begins to loosen up as time goes on. She smiles and laughs, and you have to scold yourself every time for the effect the sound has on you. You're sure you're looking at her like a lovesick puppy, but you can't find it within yourself to stop.

When the kids get tired and want to go to bed, you exchange phone numbers with Steve and Tony before saying your goodbyes. Billy asks to go on your arms and falls asleep before you even get to the exit of the restaurant area.

Once you get to the cottage, you take Billy straight to his bedroom. To your surprise, Wanda follows you and, like the night before, turns on the night lights. Before leaving the room, you kiss the boy's forehead gently, and the redhead does the same.

"Hey," you call softly as you close the bedroom door, and Wanda looks surprised you said something, "you wanna eat something together?" You invite, your brain inebriated by the alcohol.

"We just came back from dinner, Y/n." She retorts, her eyebrows slightly raised at you. "Yeah, right." You say clumsily, and barely acknowledge Wanda's amused little smile. "Well, maybe we could-"

"Goodnight, Y/n." She interrupts you, and you take a deep breath as you nod. "Goodnight, Wanda." You say, trying to disguise your sadness, and the redhead walks to her room.

You only move away when she's no longer in your line of sight.

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The next morning you're woken up by little hands urging you to get up or you'll be late for breakfast.

You smile sleepily, telling Billy that the food isn't going anywhere, but the boy only stops when you stand up.

A little less than half an hour later, the three of you are in the hotel restaurant.

For some reason, perhaps because of the time, the place is full and you have trouble finding a table to sit at. When you finally do, Wanda suggests that you and Billy go ahead while she guards the table.

For the first time she speaks to you looking directly into your eyes and you smile silly as you agree before she even finishes speaking.

You and Billy make your way to the buffet then, and you scold with a smile when you see that the boy is just putting sweets on his plate.

He tries to distract you by asking if you can go skiing later while he puts another piece of cake on his plate, and you smile amusedly, agreeing while pretending not to have noticed the boy's trickery.

As the two of you are walking back to the table, you see a man standing next to Wanda, his hand resting on the back of her chair, and from the look on his face you know he's flirting. Before you know it, you rush to your feet.

"Hey, dear, Billy was asking if- Oh, hi, sir, can we help you with something?" You pretend you have only noticed the man now, forcing a smile at him, and feel victorious as you see his posture change completely. "No, no. Actually, I was just leaving."

As the man quickly walks away from the table, you and Billy sit facing Wanda, and the redhead watches you curiously.

"Why did you do that?" she finally asks, slightly narrowing her eyes at you, and you shrug, deciding to play dumb. "That what?"

"Why did you call me 'dear'?" She asks, raising an eyebrow curiously at you, and you smile dismissively, avoiding her gaze at all costs.

"I don't know. It's just a nickname, Wanda, no big deal." You reply casually as you help Billy with his breakfast. Wanda, however, can see through your pretense and has to contain a small amused smile.

"What was Billy asking for?" She asks then, and you look at her confusedly. "What?" you ask, completely oblivious, and this time the redhead can't contain her smile. "You were saying Billy was asking for something."

"Oh! Yeah, right. He wanted to go skiing later." You say, clearing your throat to disguise the awkwardness, and Wanda hums in understanding, watching you intently.

"Can we go, mom?" Billy asks excitedly, looking at the redhead, who looks away from you to her son with a fond smile on her lips. "Of course, honey, but eat properly, okay?" she instructs and the boy nods, turning his attention back to the food on his plate.

Wanda stands up then, walking towards the buffet. And while she tries to push away the effect that the conversation of a few moments ago had on her, you try not to look at her so often.

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A few hours later, the three of you are at the ski stand, and you place your belongings on the counter while you help Billy with his equipment.

As Wanda signs the permission and liability papers, your phone lights up with a notification, and the redhead's gaze is drawn to it. "Y/n, your phone got a message. Carol Danvers. She says it's urgent."

"Can you see what it is, please? The password is Billy's birthday." You ask, arranging the boy's boots, and Wanda unlocks it. When she is about to open the messaging app, however, the device requires another password.

"For heaven's sake, Y/n, even the messaging app has a password?" She complains as you start working on the boy's other boot. "Do you know what people might do if they steal your phone?"

"And I'm the overthinker." She mumbles then, making you smile as you recall all the times you teased her for thinking too much about everything. "I guess I learned it from you."

"What's the password?" She asks, and you freeze for a moment before answering. "Your birthday." You finally say and Wanda doesn't say a single word about it. Busy with your eyes on Billy, you don't see how the redhead blushes intensely.

"It's about the deadline for your next book." She informs next, showing you the cell phone but refusing to look at you and you look away from Billy's goggles to the device to read your agent's message.

"Okay, I'll call her later. Thanks." You say as you pick up the phone and stand up, and Wanda just flashes you a brief smile in response. You watch her for a brief moment before looking at Billy again.

"Shall we go, kid?" You ask and receive an excited smile in response.

As you walk away from the stand and toward where the other families are gathered, Wanda tries not to think about the whole password situation.

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The three of you have fun together, but eventually, you and Wanda get tired and spend your time just watching the kid ski around.

"Watch out, Billy!" Wanda yells at one point when the boy reaches a slightly higher speed, and you let out a soft chuckle. "Relax, Wanda, he'll be fine."

"Do you know how many ski accidents happen every year?" Is her reply as she crosses her arms in concern, and you smile amused. "No, but I'm sure you do."

"After earlier today, you've lost the right to tease me about my worries." She retorts, making you smile. But, remembering the password incident, you decide it's best not to prolong the subject. The redhead seems to think the same way, as she soon adds, "It's dangerous, that's all I'm saying."

The two of you then share a brief moment of silence, until a memory crosses your mind and you smile to yourself. "Remember when we spent the winter break at my parents' winter cottage after school was over?" You ask and Wanda looks at you with her eyebrows furrowed in questioning.

"We had just started dating," you say, a nostalgic expression on your face that the redhead is unable to ignore, "we all went skiing and I offered to teach you? I was just trying to show off to you." You confess and wait for Wanda to push the subject away as she always does when you talk about the two of you.

Instead, she giggles to herself and you look at her with amused curiosity. Noticing your gaze, the redhead explains, "Okay, look. I didn't really know how to ski, but I wasn't that bad at it. I pretended because I liked the attention you gave me."

Her cheeks are red now. Her eyes seem to sparkle with something other than sunlight, something you haven't seen in a long time. You are hopelessly in love with her.

All these facts that present themselves to you as the words leave her mouth need to be put aside, however. You would need to deal with them alone, in silence. Reality hurts, but it is still reality.

"I know." You decide to say then, shrugging cockily, and Wanda rolls her eyes as an amused smile frames her features. "No, you don't!"

"I do!" You assure her, but Wanda still looks at you in disbelief. "I saw you skiing later with Nat and Monica. I'm a good teacher, but not that good." You say, and all the redhead does is shake her head as she looks away.

As the two of you keep your eyes on Billy, skiing back and forth, you both have silly smiles on your lips. Wanda's, however, falters.

"You know what else I remember about that trip?" she asks, her voice in a different tone this time, almost harsh, and you look at her curiously. "What?" you ask cautiously, and Wanda locks her jaw before answering.

"Us fighting all night for the stupidest possible reason and me going to Pietro's room to cry afterward. We did that a lot." She says, the pain in her words enveloping you and making you want to shove yourself into the snow and never come out. You take a deep breath, but before you can say anything, Wanda turns to your son.

"Billy! Let's go! Time for lunch." She calls out, and as the boy approaches you with an ear-to-ear grin, you realize that there is no more room for conversation.

You risk a glance at Wanda, but she doesn't look at you at any point as she guides the boy back to the stand. With a heavy sigh, you follow them.

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In the days that follow, you and Wanda no longer comment on your past.

Although she doesn't treat you as harshly as before, the redhead again keeps you at arm's length. And even though it hurts you, you decide to respect her decision and keep your distance yourself.

In the middle of the night, Wanda wakes up thirsty and decides to go to the kitchen to solve her problem, since going back to sleep didn't seem to be an option.

Halfway there, she sees you on the couch, sleeping peacefully. The place doesn't look uncomfortable, in fact, the couch is about the size of her bed at home. Still, she should've suggested that you share the bed, each using the room one night. She knows you wouldn't accept it, though, it wasn't like you.

She doesn't even realize that she's watching you sleep while the memories flow into her mind so easily. Of all the times you slept together; all the times she woke up early and traced your features with her fingertips until you woke up with a smile on your face and kissed her on the tip of her nose; or when... Stop.

What's wrong with her? She was taken aback by having to spend all these days with you, and this family-like Christmas trip was making her weak. It was just this.

Blinking away the longing she broke the smile on her lips, continuing on her way towards the kitchen. With her mind still clouded by memories, however, she ends up closing the cupboard door harder than necessary, the sound echoing through the cottage.

Squeezing her eyes shut, Wanda wishes you didn't wake up. But the noises coming from the living room show she's wrong, and the redhead mumbles a curse under her breath.

"Some things never change, you're still clumsy." You say in a sleepy voice, getting up from the sofa and walking to the kitchen with an amused smile on your face.

"And you still wake up at any noise." She retorts as you approach the kitchen counter. It's not my fault if I'm sleeping on the couch, is the first thing that crosses your mind, but you think it best not to say it out loud.

Before your silence, Wanda snort. "What? Are you not gonna be mad at me for waking you up?" She provokes and you swallow dryly, remembering all the times you've been mad at her for the most implausible reasons.

"I've changed a lot, Wanda." You tell, your eyes full of a honesty that Wanda didn't expect to receive right now. "I've worked through my anger issues. A lot of therapy so I can learn to deal with them."

"Billy helped me a lot too, I just want to be a good parent to that boy." You add, looking in the direction of your son's room with a soft smile. When you look back at Wanda again, she's watching you with an indecipherable expression.

"Anyway, I'm sorry." You finish as you let out a deep breath, pressing your lips together in a simple smile, and the redhead knits her brows together. "For what?"

"I let my anger get the best of me back then and I know I hurt you a lot with that. I'm truly sorry." You answer, your voice full of sincerity and guilt that weight heavy on the redhead, making her heart act weird inside her chest.

"It's okay, it's over now." She manages to say it, blinking a few times to push the unfamiliar feeling away, and you flash her a sad smile, "I'm not so sure about that."

"I appreciate the apology, Y/n. But seriously, it's okay. I've done a lot of things I regret, too, and I'm also sorry. I was never perfect." She says, involuntarily putting distance between the two of you.

"You were to me." The words escape your mouth before common sense can prevent them from doing so, and Wanda's eyes widen slightly, her breath catching in her throat.

You think you've crossed the line, and you're sure of it when Wanda looks away. "I'm going back to my room now," she says softly, almost an uncertain whisper, "good night, Y/n."

"Good night, Wanda." You reply in the same tone and match the hesitant smile she flashes you with a wistful one.

Wanda leaves next and as soon as you hear the door clicking you notice the glass of water in the sink, untouched by the redhead.

You sigh heavily then and remain sitting there for long minutes even after she'd walked away.

⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅

To your surprise, your relationship with Wanda does not worsen after that late-night conversation. In fact, things seemed to have improved.

Of course, the probability that this was just you building up expectations was high.

On the 23rd Billy asks to go see Santa Claus and the three of you decide to walk around town after dinner.

At some point during the evening, Wanda gets a call from work and you and Billy wait for her while you admire the window of a nutcracker store.

"Oh my god, Y/n Y/l/n? I'm such a fan of your work!" An unfamiliar voice catches your attention, and you turn in its direction. "I've read all your books."

"Awn, thank you! That's very kind." You thank the blonde, reciprocating her excited smile with a grateful one. "Not at all, you are very talented. Besides, you are much better looking in person." She flirts, and you let out an awkward chuckle.

"Mama, can we go now?" Billy tugs at the sleeve of your jacket, looking as uncomfortable with the interaction as you do. Before you can answer him, the woman is speaking again.

"Awn, is this your son? How cute!" The woman says adorably, leaning down to talk to the boy. "Our son, yeah." Wanda's voice right next to you startles you, but you do your best not to let it show. "And you are?"

"Sharon, Y/n's fan." She introduces herself, extending her hand to Wanda, but the redhead leaves it hanging. The blonde clears her throat then, turning her attention back to you.

"I didn't know you were married, I didn't see a ring." She comments pointedly, and you briefly look away. Busy wishing you could dig a hole in the sidewalk and crawl inside, you don't notice the deadly look Wanda casts at Sharon.

"Well, it was nice to meet you. I can't wait to read your next book." The blonde says politely, and you smile as you nod. "Thank you, same to you." With that, the blonde walks away and you clear your throat in hopes of shaking off the awkwardness of the moment.

As you turn to Wanda and notice her hardened expression, a thought crosses your mind, and you smile amused.

"You didn't correct her." You observe, looking at her with a knowing smirk, and Wanda knits her eyebrows together, her expression still hard. "What?"

"She said I was married and you didn't correct her." You say, the amused smile growing on your lips. "Why?"

Wanda feels her neck heat up considerably at your remark. Rolling her eyes, the redhead crosses her arms, deciding to lie. "It's just boring sometimes, repeating the same thing over and over."

You say nothing, just nodding with an expression of false conviction. Before she can give any sign of how her heart was beating faster at that moment, Wanda turns to Billy.

"What do you want to do next, dear?" She asks, and when the boy immediately says he wants to see Santa Claus, you let out a little giggle.

Taking the boy in her arms, Wanda starts walking as she engages in a random conversation with him, and you join the two of them with a small smile on your face.

⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅

The line for Santa is huge, but Billy is overjoyed at the occasion, so you and Wanda wait patiently along with the other families.

The town seems to get more beautiful every day, and despite the accumulated snow, it's really not that cold.

While you wait, you and the redhead chat about some random subjects, never mentioning what has just happened in front of the nutcracker store, although that is the only thing on your minds.

You notice that Wanda is avoiding your gaze, but you have no idea the reason is that she's trying with all her might to keep her feelings inside and not do anything stupid.

And you try to spend as much time as possible without interacting directly with the redhead, knowing that the chances of you saying something stupid, like that night in the kitchen, were remarkably high.

And amid all the tension that you both hide very well, Billy's turn comes rather quickly, and you both watch the boy with silly smiles on your faces.

"Hello, little boy. A picture with the family?" The old man suggests, looking at you both, and you put your hands in your pockets, looking at Wanda. "You can go, I'll go after." You suggest awkwardly.

"I guess we can go together." She says shyly and you freeze for a brief moment in surprise. But she flashes you a smile that makes you weak in the knees and so you smile too. "O-okay."

You join Billy and Santa and you hand your cell phone to one of the assistants to take the picture. When the picture is taken, the three of you look at it with happy smiles on your faces.

You two then step away from the chair, watching from a few feet away Billy's conversation with the old man.

"Tell me, child, have you been good this year?" The older asks and you and Wanda giggle as Billy nods vigorously. When Santa looks at you both for confirmation, you and Wanda nod as well. "Great, that's great. So, what would you like for Christmas?"

"I'd like to have more days like these." The boy answers honestly, looking between you and Wanda. The redhead swallows awkwardly, but you look at her right away.

"That would be nice." You confess, your eyes locked on hers, and your expression at her is so smitten that Wanda can't help but feel her heart sink.

And suddenly everything is too much.

Everything was already too much, in a way. Having you around was always dangerous, her feelings were never far enough away to allow her to deal with it properly. However, finding out about your feelings for her? That just made everything worse.

Because she knew all too well how this story would end, all the pain and suffering that would come with it. She could not allow herself to go through that again.

"I-I can't do this." She says in a breath, so low that you only hear it because you're standing right next to her. Noticing the redhead's watery eyes, you frown. But the next moment she is turning and walking away.

"Wanda?" You call out, confused, but she continues her quick steps. "Wanda!" You try once more, but just as before, nothing stops the woman from leaving and soon you lose her in the crowd.

Taking a deep breath, you turn back to Billy and the old man. Your heart breaks into a million little pieces at the image of Wanda's crying face. Because of you.

Trying to hide your own tears, you flash Billy a reassuring smile.

⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅

All the way back to the cottage you have to convince Billy that he has done nothing wrong. When you get there, you put him on the couch, telling him that everything will be fine.

Walking to Wanda's room, you take a deep breath before knocking on the door. Receiving no answer, you decide to open it anyway.

Inside, you see the redhead walking from side to side, tears streaming down her face marked by concern, and you feel the worry growing. "Wanda-"

"What are we doing, Y/n?" She interrupts you, "this make-believe is ridiculous!" She says, her voice exasperated as she continues her pacing, and you sigh. "There's no make-believe, Wanda, I love-"

"Don't! Don't you dare finish that sentence!" she interrupts you once again, raising an index finger in your direction, but her trembling chin reveals her true state of fragility.

"It's the truth." You insist, taking a small step toward her, and the redhead scoffs. "And we know how that ended." She retorts with false humor, but you shake your head.

"That was nine years ago." You argue, and facing no interruptions this time, you continue. "Look, I know what we went through. It was hard on both of us."

"But, Wanda, I love you." You go on and it's visible the way Wanda shudders at the words, looking away from you and bringing her hand to her face in a sign of distress. "Even if you don't want to hear it, I love you like I always have. Maybe even more." You confess, a sad little laugh escaping your lips.

Wanda looks at you again and, swallowing hard, you take a step closer to her. I know we didn't work out back then, but if you give us a chance... Maybe we can make it work. Maybe you can fall in love with me again-"

"This could never happen, Y/n," she interrupts you, making your heart collapse inside your chest, "how can I fall in love with you again when I never stopped?" The question comes out almost in a shaky whisper, and you widen your eyes in astonishment.

"But it doesn't matter. All our relationship brought was pain and sorrow and..." She continues, but you're no longer listening, your brain having stopped at the moment she said she loved you too.

With steady steps, you close the distance between you two, your hands pulling her eagerly by the waist as your lips silence her speech with a firm kiss.

Wanda brings her hands to your shoulders intending to push you away, but she gives to the feeling she's been craving for so long in midway. You melt when she matches the kiss, and your grip on her waist loosens when you wrap your arms around her waist.

Eventually, Wanda musters the strength to pull away.

"Stop." She asks but keeps her forehead resting on yours, exhausted, and you breathe deeply as you try to regain the rhythm of your breathing. "We were young, Wanda. Young and stupid." You say, pulling your face away from hers just enough to look into her eyes.

"We changed, a lot. I know you've noticed that too. And if back then I was half as smart as I am today I would've never let you go." You say half-jokingly and the small smile the redhead flashes at you makes you smile too.

"Let me show you how good I can be for you, how good we can be for each other." You say in a pleading whisper, tightening your arms around her to emphasize your words.

"I'm scared." She confesses, her voice becoming shaky again as a few tears trickle down her cheeks. "I know, so am I." You say, bringing your hand to her face to wipe away her tears and smile as she leans into your touch. "But it feels so right, doesn't it?"

"It does." She confirms, but soon her expression sketches fear again. "But I don't want to get hurt again." She lets you know, and you immediately shake your head. "You won't, not if I can help it."

Wanda takes a deep breath at your assurance, nodding faintly. You approach slowly, resting your forehead on hers once more. The redhead allows the touch for a moment, relishing the sensation as much as you do before pulling away.

You watch her take a few steps away from you, your body immediately wanting to touch her again.

"How will Billy feel about this?" She asks then, crossing her arms in that defensive way she always does, and you laugh through your nose. "Oh come on, Wanda, we both know this was his plan with this whole idea of traveling together."

"It's true." A third voice makes itself heard in the room, and you both turn toward the door.

"Billy! What did we talk about overhearing other people's conversation?" Wanda scolds the boy, but all you can do is smile at the scene. "Sorry, mom, but I had to. This is important."

Billy steps forward, looking between you and Wanda as if preparing for the most important moment of his life, and you cross your arms as you smile at him.

"Mama, mom has a box under her bed with all the letters you've ever written to her." He tells you and you turn your surprised gaze to Wanda just in time to see her eyes widen, her cheeks taking on an intense shade of pink. "Billy!"

"And mom, mama carries a picture of you in her wallet that she won't take out for anything." He says and the redhead looks at you in disbelief, but you simply nod. "That's true."

"I may be a kid, but I'm not dumb! You love each other and don't do anything about it, so I had to. Uncle Pietro and Aunt Nat helped me." He finishes his argument with determination, and as Wanda looks at him completely baffled, you let out an incredulous giggle.

Taking a deep breath to regain control of the situation, Wanda smiles fondly at her son. "My love, will you please come back to the living room so your mother and I can talk?"

Billy looks at you uncertainly, but you cast an assuring smile at him, so the boy nods and leaves the room.

Alone again, you turn to Wanda, but it takes her a moment to look back at you.

"What's the picture?" She finally asks, her tone low. Instead of answering verbally, you pull your wallet from your pocket and hold out the item to her.

Wanda can't help the small smile that forms on her lips when she sees the small picture, the two of you cuddled on the couch in her house when you were still in high school.

"Still the same one?" She asks, raising her eyes to you, and you smile as you return your wallet to its original place. "I wouldn't dare throw it away." You say honestly, and the redhead lets out a soft giggle.

"My god, Y/n, this is insane." She says, looking away and shaking her head, and you laugh through your nose. "I know. This picture is so old," you agree, approaching her slowly, and Wanda looks at you again, "we need a new one."

"What do you think?" You ask with slight hesitation, which goes away the moment Wanda smiles at you. "I think I agree."

With that you let out a contented laugh, closing the distance between the two of you and kissing her once more.

This time, however, Wanda matches it immediately, placing both her hands on the sides of your face while yours find her waist, the place you think they should never have left.

The kiss is slow this time, lacking the urgency of the previous one, but of even greater intensity, causing your hair to stand on end and a shiver to run down Wanda's spine.

And as you smile against each other's lips, neither of you can think of a time in the last few years that you have been as happy as you are now.

⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅ ⋇ ⋅

The next evening you go to the common open area of the hotel, where other families are gathered to watch the fireworks show.

Although you and Wanda have decided to take things slow, the redhead doesn't untangle her arm from yours at any time, and you have a constant smile on your face because of it.

The happiest of you all is undoubtedly Billy, who looks at you and Wanda together very often, always smiling at you.

Enjoying your time together, you hardly notice midnight approaching, and before you know it you are making the countdown.

You hold Billy in your arms the entire time, and when the countdown reaches zero, you and Wanda deposit a kiss on either side of the boy's cheek, making him laugh.

"Merry Christmas!" He says excitedly, and you smile. "Merry Christmas, my love." Wanda, says, stroking the boy's cheek, and you admire her for a second before turning your gaze back to your son. "Merry Christmas, champ."

"Should I make a wish?" he asks, and you giggle. "If you want to, of course." You say, and the boy assumes a thoughtful posture for a while.

"I don't think I need to, I already got what I wished for," Billy says, looking from you to Wanda, and you laugh through your nose in amusement. When you look at Wanda, she is already looking at you.

You watch the lights in the sky for a while, but soon a voice from your right catches your attention.

"Billy! Do you want to go play by the reindeer?" Mogan asks excitedly, just before greeting you and Wanda. "Can I go play with Morgan?"

"Sure, honey, but don't go too far, okay?" Wanda instructs and you put him down, "Yeah, stay where we can see you." You add, but the boy is already far away with his friend.

Wanda watches the two children play with a fond expression, and you watch her with a lovesick one. When the redhead notices your eyes on her, she turns to you.

"What?" she asks amidst a giggle, her cheeks taking on a rosy hue at the intensity of your gaze, and you can only find her even more beautiful.

"Merry Christmas." You say softly, unable to express all the things she makes you feel. Wanda seems to notice this, as she bites her lip in a smile, leaning in next and giving you a tender kiss on the lips that makes your whole body relax.

"Merry Christmas." She replies in the same tone as the kiss ends, and you smile as you deposit a gentle kiss on her forehead.

You and Wanda go back to watching the celebration around you, families together and Christmas lights everywhere.

And as she rests her head on your shoulder, there is no doubt, it is the most wonderful time of the year.

───── ⋅ ⋇ ❅ ⋇ ⋅ ─────

#Day 9: A Christmas attempted murder (Wanda Maximoff x Reader)

And that's it for today! I hope you enjoyed it, thoughts and comments are always welcome ツ

Taglist: @yuhloversxx @madamevirgo @an-evergreen-rose @helloalycia @wandas1mp @cantcontroltheirfear @diaryoflife @cristin-rjd @ensorcellme @aimezvousbrahms @natasha-danvers @purplemeetsblue @randomshyperson @peggycarter-steverogers @b0mbdotc0m @ethereal-pxradise @stephanieromanoff @tomy5girls @gingerbreadcookieforlife @imapotatao @musicinourlips @xxxtwilightaxelxxx @allfiguredout @olsensnpm @magicallymaximoff @nothing-isimpossible @mionemymind @itsmionet @xastrydx @sxfwap @nicole-rayleigh-hot @wellsayhelloaagin @midnight-lestrange @1-800-depressedlesbian @b-5by5 @blackwow34 @nervoustrack @somewhatgreatexpectations @yeetus-thyself @chelleztjs18 @franfineashell @mrromanoff (if you wanna be tagged check the form on my BIO)

#wanda maximoff x reader #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff au #christmas special #elizabeth olsen #elizabeth olsen x reader

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zackcrazyvalentine · 3 years

Note

I hope i'm not late for the screenshots thingy!

Here's who i got!

(i got lucky cause Epel and Idia are my faves LMAO)

And for the theme, maybe them reacting to MC cooking them meals from their world? Or maybe them visiting MC's world with them? You choose!

(romantic btw!)

LET'S GET THIS BREAD!!! I'm sorry it took some time to get out

I'll do a half and half~

Let's go!

~ Other Worldly ~

With: Epel Felmier, Idia Shroud, Vil Schoenheit, Jack Howl, and MC

Them reacting to MC cooking food from their world, and visiting MC's world

First off, let me start by saying that a good 3/4 of these characters are super picky(? with their food, Vil and Idia being the most critical (according to what Master Chef events tell us)

Hope you have some super cooking skills and/or premium ingredients at hand! ^^''

Some headcanons didn't come out too romantic orz

🍎 Epel Felmier 🧹

Foreign dishes

Epel noticed the peculiar cooking going on in Ramshackle after visiting one time

While he may be critical of ingredients and overall resulting taste, Felmier is curious to try new things (specially if it's in big portions, unlike Pomefiore's dinners)

He approaches MC shily, asking if he could have a taste of what they were eating at the time

"Sure, no problem! In fact, let me cook some for you fresh!"

Before he could even protest to get them to stop, the Prefect already got to work

He tries to help, but MC shoots him down and tells him to patiently wait

Epel's appetite and curiosity are increasing with every second

Once the food's ready to be savored, he digs right in! And will provide some feedback about what he liked about it, what it reminds him of, and if needed be points out what he thinks it lacked

Eager to try out more of the food MC was accustomed to eating back in their world!

Visiting a far away land

EPEL IS PUMPED!!! FIELD TRIP TO A LAND HE'S NEVER SEEN OR HEAD ABOUT, UNLESS IT'S FROM MC'S MOUTH!!

He's eager to visit all the places his love adores! Make some memories and have a blast discovering the place such a wonderful person comes from

He wants to know how their two worlds differ, how a world without magic unfolds before his eyes

Let's be honest: this boy right here is excited to wreck havoc in supermarket and fast food places' parking lots. Y'all probably woke up at 3am once and decided to go scream and mess around at your nearest McDonald's parking lot

Please show him vine compilations, I'm positive Epel will love to get to know the humor of this world (although he once used a vine reference when talking with a cashier once, thinking it was common knowledge for everyone in MC's world)

Out of the four guys here, Epel is the one most open to improvised plans

Eager to try out any strange fruits and vegetables, interesting snacks and bizarre cookie flavors that catch his eye

"How can your world have such specific flavors? Rosemary garlic jalapeño bread chips? How???"

💀 Idia Shroud 💙

Foreign dishes

MC probably brought some of their homemade food over to Idia's dorm after getting concerned that this boy's diet heavily relies in junk food and sweets, and when he does eat it's a very small portion

So in MC comes and asks Idia if he would like to try some food they prepared, one of their favorite dishes

At first, Idia is very reluctant, saying how he doesn't feel hungry

But the Prefect has a trick under their sleeve: a crestfallen expression with an adorable pout

Seeing them having a meal on their own while occasionally sighing sadly has the flaming haired boy debating what he should do

Then a memory of Ortho's voice resounds in his skull: "Meals are typically shared between people to develop or strengthen a bond. If you want to win [Name]'s heart, you should take them out for dinner."

That and he can't deny the contents of that container in their hands look appetizing

Shroud finally accepts and brings you over to Ignihyde's kitchen to grab a couple of plates

He's hesitant, but takes a nice first bite of food. Chews it carefully as he analyses the taste, texture, consistency

"I've never tasted something like this before. What is it?"

"One of my favorite dishes, [food name]!"

Silence followed, "Huh? I-I'm afraid I have... never heard of it..." He said

"Yeah, Ace and Sebek said the same when I introduced them to it. Makes me believe this is something only seen back in my world."

A nice chat develops and, before they know it, the food's gone and Idia himself ate a nice amount of it

It's in the walk back to his dorm, when they're enveloped in a nice comfortable silence, pinkies entwined, that MC confesses they purposefully did all that out of concern for how much he eats

It ensues some light pushing-and-pulling around and tickling, him saying how that was a tactic well taught out, but also saying how he eats just fine and they shouldn't worry about that. You know, light banter between a loving couple

That dish ends up in Idia's list of favorites. He has asked Mc to bring it with them a couple of times when they hang out together and play games

Visiting a far away land

Frankly, he's curious and very nervous about this trip

MC of course is aware of Idia's dislike of crowds and being out in public, so they prepared a nice and calm trip for him

Visiting the less frequented parts of town, quiet cafés (cat cafés!! because those normally have controlled influx of costumers for the kitties' safety), couple of history museums, supermarkets late at night for snack runs, lots of staying at home to play a plethora of videogames and watch many anime series and movies

He's amazed at the variety of games MC's world has, and is also surprised by how some titles are similar to those he likes to play. Same goes for some anime series

While he appreciates how the Prefect tries to show him what their world and society there is like, he much more prefers their stay at home time

He gets to cuddle with them in their room! Their actual legit room with many memories of their life!

He may not look like it, but Idia likes to snoop around and ask what this or that photo, a toy or poster is about and what memories they hold

Honestly, Shroud came over to his lover's world to know about their life, not so much to learn about the world as a whole

Baby pictures, photo albums, the occasional video of their childhood, diaries and old Valentine's cards, he looks through and reads them all!

He will treasure every bit of information he learns about his partner and their life in this world. Probably takes one of their baby pictures with him back to Twisted Wonderland

👑 Vil Schoenheit 🍎

Foreign dishes

Vil is the hardest to convince to try your food out of this group, no doubt

He does know MC cooks, and knows that some of their dishes are uncommon, but the model has yet to asked them for a taste

It takes one brave "Do you want some?" for the model to finally have a taste of the food

He's very hesitant, you can see it clear in his expression, but it all fades away after the first bite

He will openly state if he likes it or not and why

"Perhaps you have other dishes that suit my fancy better? Come on, I want you to show me more."

He genuinely does want to taste more of those unique dishes

Visiting a far away land

Eager to take a little vacation to a world full of opportunities

I see Vil as someone who would like to visit the most prestigious places (though MC will have to tone it down and remind him they don't have an unlimited amount of money to spend)

Art museums and a couple theatre plays are his go-to, along with nice restaurants, popular cafés, and lovely parks to have a picnic on (he jumps into the idea of attending one of those outdoor cinema projections, those are probably his favorite because he gets to cuddle with his lover under the night sky while a movie plays)

He will want to learn about the history of MC's world and the way society, politics work there

He gets word of the horrible things that happened and the threat of climate change, human rights violations and he will want to take action to protest against it

Okay, but Vil will get along so well with the Prefect's younger siblings and mother/aunts/fem guardian if they have one

Get ready to have him judge favorite makeup products. Prefect better lead him away from the beauty and skincare sections of farmacias and supermarkets

All in all, having Vil over to their world allowed MC to visit many nice fancy-ish places and allowed them to enjoy some simple things they forgot

A wonderful person to have by your side in any world and universe~

🐺 Jack Howl 💛

Foreign dishes

With his fine sense of smell, Jack detected the food MC was preparing for their little date was something unfamiliar

"What's that? Something new?"

Yet MC tries to keep the surprise until the plates are presented and served

Seeing the smile on their face, Jack can't help but think that this dish will taste wonderful due to the love shining on their face

"This is [dish name], one of my favorites back in my world. Haven't seen it offered in the cafeteria, so I decided to try my hand and prepare it for you, Jackie!"

First bite, fluffy tail wagged. He compliments their cooking with a smile before diving in for a couple morsels

Jack isn't too picky, he enjoys food truthfully

I think he will be curious about the story behind the dish and why his love categorizes it as a favorite. Ingredients, techniques, tell him all about it!

I'm sure this boy will be happy to try more of the unique dishes found in a world ways away from his!

Visiting a far away land

A visit to his partner's world, huh? Well, Jack is certainly excited to see what sort of outdoor activities and exploring can be done in this new place!

Dates with Howl in the Prefect's world will consist of visiting natural parks, gardens, forest trails, perhaps do some fishing or bird watching

Jack grew up with snow as a constant. He would like to explore the winter sports scene in this foreign world (if MC lives somewhere with snow/with designated paces on which to practice said sports)

Aside from these outdoor sporty visits, the wolf would like to attend concerts or maybe a local team's game

However, he soon finds out these events aren't suited for his acute hearing (poor baby 😭)

So he's content with spending time inside MC's house, get to know their family a little, look through their family pictures, and have pleasant late afternoon walks in the nearby park

Something as simple as going out for icecream is tremendously pleasant with Jack by your side

(but poor MC if they aren't athletic or into nature because this big puppy will drag them to loooots of nature watching dates asdfg)

-- --

Ngl, this prompt was a little hard to fulfill. I'm well aware this isn't the most romantic, but hope it was enjoyable

Thank you for your request!

and sorry again for taking long

#zask #twisted wonderland #loading screen headcanons #epel felmier #idia shroud #vil schoenheit #jack howl #twst x reader #twisted wonderland headcanons #twst headcanons #twisted wonderland x reader

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twjournals · 3 years

Text

So Wrong It's Right

Sequel: What's Wrong is Right

Warning: dark!Peter Parker x reader, DUB-CON, manipulation, age gap, drinking

PLEASE READ MY WARNING BEFORE CONTINUING. I am not responsible for your media consumption. Any and all negativity will be blocked.

Word Count: 5.4k

Summary: You're an old troubled friend of May's. Your life consists of being a workaholic, a party animal, and bringing home the shittest of guys for a one-hit-wonder. Just when you get your life in order, you're knocked right back into your old habits. Peter has watched you suffer long enough. He can make it all better.

Your life was far from where you thought you would be. It was sad to say, but you were anything but a role model. Yet May still tolerated you, regardless of Peter. Maybe she used you as an example to show Peter what not to be or maybe she was just too good of a friend to leave you on your own. To say the least, your life was a mess but you could not be more grateful to have a friend like May.

"Peter, go get me a wet rag, please," May spoke quietly. Peter left your side once he helped May get you over to the couch. You were beyond the limits that someone should be drunk.

You were in a fit of hiccups, giggling to yourself as May bent down to take off your heels. You had far too many drinks, that much was clear.

"Maaay, you.." you hiccupped, "are suuuch a good.." you hiccupped again, "friend."

May shook her head with a sigh, taking in the drunken sight of you. She was not sure how you managed to let yourself get this far gone, but every time you would drink, this is how you ended up. Either you had zero limits or you loved to push the limits you did have.

"Pet-" May started to call over her shoulder, but Peter was already hurrying in the room with his hands full.

"I'm here, Aunt May." Peter reminded and she watched as Peter sat the trash can nearby the couch. He then placed the bottle of water on the table with some medicine for the headache he knew would come with your awake in the morning. He kneeled down beside you on the couch, pressing the rag to your forehead.

May only smiled to herself as she pulled the blanket from its spot on the back of the couch and pulled it over your figure. She didn't say anymore. Peter had seen his Aunt May take care of you many nights when you were so shit-faced it was a wonder you could still see faces.

Your head was propped up against a pillow on the couch as Peter wiped your forehead with the cool rag. Your skin was burning up. Peter could not help but wonder how you let yourself get like this. You were quite a few years younger than May, but it amazed him how different the two of you were to be the best of friends.

You were fast asleep in no time, making Peter smile as his eyes gazed over your face. He had always thought you were so beautiful. Too precious to be taken advantage of by the guys you went after. He witnessed many nights when you had told Aunt May about a new guy you had hooked up with. Everyone knew it was nothing more than a one-night stand, but Peter could not help but hate any guys that touched you only for only their benefit.

It was not until you had eventually settled down with a guy you had met from one of your nightstands that you finally stopped ending up on May's couch. You had moved on with your life, still keeping in contact with May every now and then. You were happy. Not just the sex but he was truly seemed like a guy you could see yourself spending forever with.

You had stopped drinking. You had stopped going out to parties. After the first year, you had moved into the city and got an apartment together. Another year later, you guys were engaged and everything seemed to fall into place. After 3 years, the wedding was right around the corner.

Your world moved at a quicker pace now considering all the things you needed to get done before the wedding. In between work and house chores, you were planning for your big day.

As time went by, you were so wrapped up in your own little world you did not notice the slow-burning flame in your partner slowly being put out. While your plans had been coming together, your relationship was falling apart. You had for the most part ignored all the signs and assumed he was having a bad day. It amazed you how many he was having. When you would try to talk to him, it seemed useless since you could never get him to talk about it. In reality, it all brewed into something bigger. It all hit you like a ton of bricks.

You had been working later hours than usual for extra money. It wasn't cheap, but you had told yourself it was okay to want the things you wanted. After all, this was going to be your first and hopefully wedding. You wanted everything to be perfect. You even tried to get opinions from your fiance to include his vision of it, but he insisted you were better at this sort of thing. You couldn't argue with that.

You wrapped up your work at the office fairly early so you decided to call it a night and surprise your fiance. You felt like everything was on track. One night worry-free was much needed. You had earned it.

You pushed open the front door to your apartment before walking through the living room into the kitchen. You sit your keys on the counter, placing your bag on the stool by the counter. You peered around the apartment for a moment. All the lights were off and it was quiet. Had he already gone to bed? You checked the time.

7:13pm

You were surprised you did not hear his game or at least him yelling at it. You started down the hallway to the bedroom you shared, staring at the closed door. Why was it closed when it was just him? You shook the thought a little too soon. Maybe if you had just thought a little longer, you would have prepared yourself for what was on the other side.

You pushed the door open just a little to see inside when you heard a faint moan from the other side. Your heart stopped. You stood in shock taking in the sight of the man you were in love with hovered over another girl in your bed under your covers. Your face was hot in embarrassment, anger. You were feeling so many things right now you could not think straight. You were hurt.

"Are you serious??" You blurted out, causing them both to jump to try and cover themselves.

"You're sick, Chris." She shoved his chest, pushing him off of her as she quickly got out of the bed. "He told me you guys were no longer together."

She scowled as she hurried to gather her clothes off the floor and pulling them on. If it were even possible, your eyes could have burned holes through the girl. You were in disbelief. Your jaw would have already been on the floor if it wasn't connected to your face.

"I'm so sorry." She mumbled, embarrassed as she hurried past you out of your apartment.

You were left to deal with Chris. You starred at him with tears kissing your eyes.

"I-"

You took a deep breath, shaking your head. "Don't."

"I can explain." He started to get out of the bed to dress.

"There's nothing to explain, Chris." You stared at him, trying to restrain yourself from coming across the room and punching him in the face for acting like an explanation could even justify his actions.

"She meant nothing to me." He started to walk over to you.

“You told her we weren’t together. How is that nothing?”

“It felt like we weren’t. You were so busy.” He tried to touch your arm but you shoved his hand away.

"Don't you dare think about touching me when you were just touching another woman." You looked at him with dark eyes, struggling to fight back the cry. He wasn't worth your tears. "I want you to get out."

"Get out?! Where am I gonna go?"

"I don't know." You shrugged your shoulders. "Maybe you could have thought that through."

He frowned, running his fingers through his hair frustrated. "It doesn't have to be like this. Can't we just talk this out?"

"No!" You shouted at him, making his eyes grow wide. You could tell he wasn't telling this as seriously as you. "I don't want to look at you right now." You turn to leave the room, but he grabs your arms to turn you to face him.

"Please. Look, I can- I can stay on the couch tonight. I'll give you your space and when you're ready we can talk about it. I was wrong for that. I fucked up and I'm sorry." You yanked yourself from his hold.

"You can give me space by leaving. Pack yourself a bag and go."

"I love you, Y/n. I never meant to hurt you."

You shook your head as your eyes wandered over the bed to where they once were before meeting his eyes. "You mean you never meant to get caught."

He sighed before hanging his head in defeat and walking by you to gather up some of his things. You didn't move from your spot. Only stared at the mess of a bed. The place you made love to him while he made love to another. You listened to the front door close behind him on his way out before you finally covered your face, letting the tears fall.

For days, weeks, all you could seem to do was feel sorry for yourself. You couldn't find the strength to get out of bed. No matter how many calls you received, you let them ring through to voicemail. Everything you had felt for him was in ruins. You changed for him. You let yourself grow for him and even that wasn't enough. After all the time you spent picking up after him, cooking, cleaning, planning, staying loyal for crying out loud. You didn't know what else he could of you.

You had called off the wedding in the time you stayed closed up in your apartment. Even took some time off of work to handle it all. You took that time to gather every piece of him scattered around the apartment and packed it up. You wanted to end this as painless as possible aside from the pain you were already feeling. You had thrown away the sheets and replaced them, even get a new comforter and it still didn't feel the same anymore to lay in your bed. You stared at your phone beside you as it lit up for what felt like the hundredth time. You finally sighed, lifting the phone. You knew without even looking at the name it was from him.

You canceled the wedding? It doesn't have to be like this. I still love you, Y/n. You were so busy with work and all the planning. You abandon me. Whenever I wanted your attention, you were always too tired to pay any attention to me.

It's like the girl I fell in love with was gone. Some time ago, you couldn’t keep your hands off of me now it’s like I have to beg you to touch me.

You're being selfish.

You can't be THAT mad, Y/n. I’m a man. I have needs. You were busy and she was willing to help. We can fix this. Don’t give up 3 years. Don’t give up on me.

There were loads more, but you could not care to bother reading the rest. You tossed your phone back down on the bed, rubbing your hands over your face. You didn't owe him anything, not even a response. The girl he was talking about was not gone. She was only on hold to plan a wedding by herself and it was more stressful than he knew. You wanted to forget everything that had happened. You wanted to forget you wasted 3 years of your life planning on growing old with this man.

You weren't sure how you had got this far and with that being said, May wasn't either. You had talked May into joining you to a night out at a club. She needed a night to herself and you needed a break from everything. Along with that, if you had stayed inside that house a moment longer, you might have gone insane.

"You're going to be hammered if you keep on like that." May reminded with a laugh, both of you clinging onto the bar and each other for the extra support. You thanked the bartender as he pushed your last round of shot glasses in front of the two of you.

You smiled, passing a glass to May before keeping one for yourself.

"We can only hope." You winked at the bartender who only chuckled before clinking your shot glass with hers and downing your shot.

Your throat was already numb from all the alcohol you had already numbed it with. May wasn't far behind you. You took your final shot, grinning and pulling May along with you to the dancefloor to get lost in the sea of people. You threw your arms around May's, moving your hips as you both danced to the music.

This was the therapy you needed. Sometimes you had longed for nights like this. You had freedom. You had no worries, aside from worrying who you might wake up beside. But you had fallen in love and even though you had grown up, you had not nearly grown out of this lifestyle. It was all too familiar.

"Hey! I'm going to the bathroom! I'll be back!" May moved closer to you, raising her voice to be heard over the loud music. You nodded, watching her pushing her way through the crowd of people to get to the ladies' bathroom before easing yourself back into your dancing.

You swayed, grinding your hips with the rest of the crowd. You weren't the slightest bit bothered to be dancing by yourself. You used to lose yourself on the dancefloor for hours days after days years ago.

"I've missed this." You heard a familiar voice speak from behind you, startling you when their hands landed on your hips with your sway. They pulled you back against them, catching you off guard. "I've missed you." He mumbled in your ear, sending chills down your spine.

You peaked over your shoulder to make sure your mind was not playing tricks on you. It wasn't. You prayed it was an old one-night stand, but of course, it was the one person you were trying to get away from.

"It doesn't work like that, Chris." You dropped your hands down to his on your hips, trying to push them off your hips but they only hold you tighter. "Get- get off of me." You gritted through your teeth as your eyes glared at him. "Get off!" You raised your voice.

"Now, now, let's not cause a scene. You've had quite a bit to drink haven't you?" He wrapped your arms around your figure, making your blood run cold as his body pressed to yours.

"That's none of your business."

"I'm your fiance. You are my business."

"Ex." You corrected him. His nose flared slightly.

"You really want to go there? You're nothing without me. You're shit-faced in the middle of the club and you can't even accept my help?" He growled and you pushed on his arms.

"I don't need your help."

"You're drunk. You don't know what you need." He spat.

The sound of someone clearing their throat interrupted your argument. "I think I've got it from here." You looked up to put a face to the voice, your eyes widening slightly.

"And you are?" Chris didn't budge while staring down Peter as if challenging him.

Peter was reaching his hand out for yours. "Her boyfriend." You stared up at Peter in shock at how much he had changed over the years and he smiled reassuringly.

Chris stiffed slightly and you could feel his eyes burning a hole into you. "Is that true?"

You didn't take your eyes off of Peter, taking a hold of his hand and letting him pull you out of Chris's arms. "Yes." Your voice was hushed.

Chris scowled. "Wow. I wish you luck there, man. She's a real catch." He laughed, making you look down. You couldn't believe he was really trying to ruin your night when he had already ruined everything else.

Peter only snaked his arm around your waist, letting his hand settle on your hip while his eyes never left Chris's. "She certainly is." He agreed. He gave your body a warm squeeze, grabbing you closer into his embrace. "Now, if you'll excuse us."

With that, he guided you through the crowd off of the dance floor.

"You okay?" He finally broke the silence once he got you back to the bar, sitting you down on one of the stools.

You nodded, letting your eyes wander up to him as he motioned the bartender over. "I'm just curious as to why you're here right now. Aren't you supposed to be in college?"

He smiled as he pulled out his wallet to pay your tab and you grabbed his hand, shaking your head. "No, no. I can pay for my own."

"What if I insist?"

"You don't have to, honestly. I have money."

You started to reach into your purse for some cash but Peter covered your hand, giving you another reassuring smile.

"You'll have plenty of other times to pay. I'll get it this time." He reminded you and you sighed in defeat, giving him a playful scowl. He only grinned, proceeding to pull some cash from his wallet to give to the bartender.

"You didn't answer my question." You continued as he turned back to you.

"I'm still college. I just sometimes stay with Aunt May on the weekends."

"And you just so happened to be here?"

Peter chuckled, pointing in May's direction as she stumbled over her feet returning back to the two of us. "Aunt May called."

You raised your eyebrow, looking over at May as she stood beside you now. "You called Peter?"

"Someone has to get you back home." She reminded you and you hit her arm slightly, tilting your head.

"May, I could have got a taxi or an uber. You didn't have to call him for me." You scowled at her and she shook her head in a tsking manner.

"No, no, no. I called Peter so I can rest assured you got home safely and not by some random stranger."

You rolled your eyes slightly and Peter butted in with an awkward chuckle. "I really don't mind. I don't consider this anything out of the way. I'd rather it be me than some stranger or someone." He noticed him giving the floor a swift scan around the three of you.

"Fine." You pouted your bottom lip slightly before rising from your seat at the bar. "You guys make me feel irresponsible or something." You grabbed a hold of May's arm and pulling her with you to the exit of the club while Peter followed behind the two of you.

"Are you coming?" You muttered over to May and she shook her head.

"Happy is here." Just as the words left her mouth when you started out the door, you spotted Happy parked in front of the building to pick up May. "Peter isn't too bad of a driver." You stopped in front of Happy's car.

"Oh goody, rest secured." You muttered and she laughed. Your arms looped around May's neck, hugging her tight. "I'm so glad to have you back. Message me when you get home." You told her and Happy a quick goodnight before letting her go.

Peter led you over to his car, unlocking the car and opening the passenger side for you. You settled comfortably in the front seat, leaning your head back against the headrest. You didn't like how it felt as if you couldn't take care of yourself, but you were in no position to complain when Peter Parker had yet again saved the day.

Peter glanced over at you in the passenger seat from time to time as he drove the distance to your apartment. He tried to keep the glances quick to keep you from noticing. You were just as beautiful as he remembered. It had been years since he had actually seen you, but you seemed like the Y/n he still remembered. Not that it was anything bad. He adored you then, and now a bit more.

He had always had the hots for you for as long as you remembered. Of course, you never minded when you ended up staying with him and Aunt May. You were always kind to Peter and he did his best to nurse you back to health to take on the hangover that awaited you the next morning.

He had never forgotten what you said to him one day while you were sick from the night before. You had been clinging onto the toilet and he had taken the opportunity to hold your hair back out of your face to keep from getting anything in it.

You sighed as he rubbed your back in soothing circles. You leaned against the toilet miserably. That was the day you learned to stay away from tequila.

"I hope I meet a guy at least half as amazing as you someday, Peter."

No doubt did the compliment find its way to his cheeks. He blushed a deep shade of red. He tried to restrain himself from making a big deal but it was a big deal to him. Though he knew he didn't stand a chance right now with his age, it meant if he had been of age, he had a chance. He thought about it even when you had stopped coming around so much. He knew this was all a coping method for you. You were hurting then and he could tell by the way you seemed toward the guy back there that there was more to that counter.

He noticed your shiver as you stared out the window. You mentally cursed yourself for wearing something this revealing. You rubbed your arms to try to warm yourself a little. Peter reached behind him in the back seat to retrieve a hoodie of his he always forgot in the car and handing it to you.

"Here." He offered before fumbling with the heat in the car. He smiled at your quiet thank you, putting your arms in the hoodie and pulling it close for warmth with putting it all the way on. He tried to control the big grin threatening to break across his face.

"I'm sorry you had to keep seeing me like this." You looked over at Peter as he kept his eyes on the road. He didn't realize how thankful you were for him in times like this. It was embarrassing how many times this had happened but you were still thankful Peter didn't think any less of you.

"You really don’t have to apologize.” He smiled at her before turning his attention back to the road.

“I really do though. I feel like you’ve taken care of me enough. I’m grown, you know? It should be the other way around.” You giggled and Peter glanced over at you.

“I’m 21.” He reminded you.

“And I’m pushing 30.”

“You’re 28. You’re still young.” He chuckled.

“Almost 29!” You huffed as he pulled into the parking lot to your apartment. “My point is- you know what my point is.”

He couldn’t help but laugh at your frustration. Your age didn’t matter to him. He could always settle for his MJ, his best friend, but seeing you tonight relit the flame to his crush for you. There was just something about you.

He parked the car in the parking lot, walking around to your side to open the door for you. You slid your arms out of his hoodie and leaving it in the seat as he helped you out of the car. You could feel the shots hitting you all at once when you stood. You stumbled out in your heels, grabbing onto Peter’s arms for support.

“Easy now.” He held onto your waist as he guided you to your apartment, asking for your keys. He took your keys when you dug them out of your pocket, letting you in your apartment.

You couldn’t help but notice all the little things he did for you. You kicked off your heels at the door, stumbling over your own two feet again as you wandered down the hallway to your bedroom. You could hear Peter in the kitchen getting you a bottle of water from the fridge along with some medicine from the medicine cabinet.

You sat on the bed when you hear his footsteps coming down the hallway toward the bedroom. You looked up at him, pouting your bottom lip out slightly when you saw him with a bottle of water and medicine for the headache to come.

He set them down on your nightstand, noticing your pout. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“Peter, you’re seriously too good to me.” You sighed.

“How’s that?” He looked down at you as he towered over you.

You motioned over to the stuff he had placed on your nightstand and frowning. “All of this. You- you really didn’t have to do this for me.”

“You’re right I don’t. But I want to. I would want it done for me if I were ever in your shoes.”

You laughed slightly at the thought of Peter drunk and you smiled to yourself. “I would definitely be there anytime you needed me.”

You thought back to all the time you had ever been drunk, remembering all the time you woke up to water and medicine from him. Only from him. Even a trash can in case you were to ever get sick, but you never got that with Chris. You always took care of him, but no one ever took care of you. You shook your head with a frown. You had tried so hard to hold it together, but it felt like you were slowly falling apart. He wasn't worth your tears, yet he was always the cause of them.

He kneeled down in front of you, tilting your head up to meet his gaze. “Talk to me. Everything okay?”

You couldn’t stop the words from coming out. “Why am I never enough?”

His eyes widened at your words. “You are more than enough and anyone who doesn’t see that, who doesn’t appreciate you and the things you do for them doesn’t deserve you.” He corrected you, his thumb stroked over your jaw as he held your face to keep your attention.

You didn't know what to say. All you could do was stare. Your eyes scanned over his face before stopping at his lips. Don't. Don't you do it. You mentally told yourself. You couldn't control the effect the alcohol had on your mind and your actions. You tried to fight back the urge but the alcohol only pushed down the buriers you had built.

Your lips smashed against his firmly, catching him by surprise. He was frozen about your lips for a first, in shock, this was actually happening but he surely gave in the kiss. Your hands grabbed at the back of his neck and pulling him onto the bed with you without breaking the hungry desperate kiss. His body hovered over yours as your fingers curled against his shirt, gripping on it. You knew it was wrong. It was so wrong, but you couldn't bring yourself to stop.

Your smaller hands slid underneath his shirt, brushing your hands over his defined abs. He was sculpted by a God. He knew he should stop, but he couldn't find it in him to stop. He didn't want to miss his chance to prove himself to you. He wanted to take care of you.

Your lips parted for air even though you left like you could hardly catch your breath when his lips started to kiss down your neck. Your hands tugged on his shirt until you started to pull it up and over your head.

His hands pushed your tight dress up the curves of your body, tossing it beside the bed once he peeled it from your body. Your lips still tingled from the loss of his and you whined quietly, your hand grasped the curls at the nape of his neck to bring his lips back to yours.

He kissed your lips passionately and letting your lips mold together. He could taste the alcohol on your tongue but it didn't bother him any. He had dreamed of this moment since he was a teen. Your fingers worked desperately to undo his jeans, feeling his bulge already through his pants before your hands pushed his pants off of his hips along with your boxers.

You were so desperate. You couldn't stop the whine that escaped against his lips. "Peter, please..." His cock twitched at the sound of his name falling from your lips.

He dragged your panties down your legs swiftly, placing himself back between them when he spread them open again. He peppered light kisses to your lips as he dragged the tip of precum-coated tip through your folds, not wasting any time to give you what you wanted.

You cried out as you clung to Peter's bareback, feeling his cock stretching you in all the ways you craved. You moaned out, letting him swallow them in a kiss as his hips rolled into yours again and again. He sighed in pleasure against your lips as your walls invited him in. You were even better than he could have imagined.

He couldn't believe this was actually happening. His lips covered your body in his kisses, admiring every part of your body as it sang for him. This was nothing like what you used to. He pressed small kisses against your bottom lip, nibbling on it as your core ached with a building climax. Your legs wrapped around his hips, causing you to gasp at the deeper strokes.

Your head fell back against the pillows, a loud moan drawing from your parted lips. Your fingers held onto Peter's hair as he hit that spot over and over, making your eyes roll slightly. You needed so badly for him to stop, but you couldn't bring the words to the surface.

"Oh my god..." Your core tightened with every deep thrust. His cock touched parts of you no guy had ever. You had never felt a climax so fast or so strong. "Please don't stop..." You couldn't fight the words from coming out. Your grip tightened on his dark hair, feeling yourself falling apart with an orgasm with every thrust.

"You're so pretty when you cum." He couldn't stop even if he wanted to. He was not far behind you by the way your walls sucked him in, milking him for all he was worth.

"Do it again. I want to make you cum again." He groaned against your chest as his tongue dragged over your hardened nipple, flicking his tongue against it teasingly before letting out a groan against your warm skin. He didn't want it to stop. He didn't want it to end. "You feel so good, Y/n..."

His hand reached between the two of you, rolling his fingers over your clit in circles. You gripped onto his wrist at the overpowering feeling. You were soaked to the core. This man made you crumble.

"I-I'm gonna cum.." His voice cracked slightly as your walls clenched around him tight In your second orgasm, pushing him over the edge into his first. His cum filled you full, marking you as he pressed delicate kisses across your neck while praising you in the process. "So beautiful, so perfect."

Your eyes were heavy with exhaustion, smiling to yourself when Peter laid down on the bed behind you. He wrapped an arm around your body, pulling you back against his chest.

It only took a matter of seconds for sleep to claim you as Peter pulled a blanket over the both of you tiredly. It was only a matter of time before the morning came to rain on your parade. Bringing along the guilt and regret that followed.

#dark!peter parker #dark!peter x reader #dark!marvel #tom holland fan fic #peter parker x reader #peter parker x you #peter parker #dub con #peter parker one shot #dark!tom holland

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waitimcomingtoo · 3 years

Text

The Proposal ~ T.H

chapter six: the end

Synopsis: fake marriage, real trouble

Series Masterlist

A week later, you sat in a hotel room in Canada with papers all around you. The process to becoming a citizen was a long one, so you wanted to get started right away. You were pulled away from your work momentarily when you heard a knock at your door.

“Who is it?” You called out.

“Room service.” A muffled voice called back. You furrowed your eyebrows before going to the door to inspect the random visitor.

“I didn’t order any-“

You opened the door to see Tom in his regular clothes with a Starbucks cup in hand. You didn’t have to drink from the cup to know it was a matcha latte.

“Good morning.” He smiled shyly and held the cup out. “This is for you.”

“Tom?” You asked in disbelief. “How did you get here?”

You took the cup from him to be polite and took a sip, smiling a little at the correct order.

“I followed the yellow brick road.” He said simply. You gave him an unamused look and took a long sip of your drink.

“Sorry. Was that a bad time for a witch joke? It feels like it was a bad time. Oh God.” He began to panic and looked down at the ground.

“It’s fine.” You assured him. “But what are you doing here?”

“I came to get you back.” He told you. “The office isn’t the same without you.”

You stared at him for a moment, unsure of what to say. Part of you couldn’t believe he had flown all the way to Canada just to try to get you back, but another part of you knew that was exactly the kind of thing Tom would do.

“And also, I really miss you.” He added quietly. “I really, really, miss you.”

“I’ve missed you too.” You admitted, bringing a smile out of him. He pulled out an unused barf bag out of his pocket suddenly and you noticed that he had written all over it.

“Sorry. I came up with this whole speech on the plane and I didn’t want to forget it.” He cleared his throat before beginning to read off the bag. “I know why you ran away. You ran because you were scared. You’re scared of being a part of a family again and allowing someone to love you. Am I right?”

“You might be a little right.” You mumbled as you adverted your eyes.

“You’re scared of having people who love you in spite of all your efforts to shut them out.” He continued. “You’re scared of that because you want it more than anything.”

He folded the bag suddenly and shoved it back into his pocket, deciding to speak from the heart instead. He took your hands in his, prompting you to look at him.

“It’s all here.” He said sincerely. “It’s waiting for you. You don’t have to be scared anymore.”

“And what about when it’s not there anymore?” You asked in a weak voice. “When it goes away, like every good thing does, then what? Who’s gonna love me then?”

“I know you think it’s been a long time since you’ve been a part of a family, but it hasn’t.” Tom told you. “You and me sharing that office the past two years, that was the start of our family. All the late nights we spent reading page after page. Every moment you took to teach me something so that I could be better at my job, so I could be like you. All of that was us, you and me, being a family.”

“No it wasn’t.” You pulled your hands out of his. “You shouldn’t have come here.”

“You told me you were falling in love with me.” He ignored your efforts to make him leave. “Did you mean that?”

“Yes.” You said after a minute of silence.

“I meant it too.” He smiled softly.

“You don’t love me.” You sighed. “You don’t even know me, Tom.”

“But I want to.” He insisted. “Despite every effort you’ve made to shut me out, I’ve spent the past two years trying to know you. And every time you let me in just a little, I’m reminded why I never stopped trying.”

“You’re not in love with me. You just have some school boy crush.”

“I started as that.” He agreed. “But it’s different now. It’s real now.”

“Don’t you get it? This doesn’t change anything.” You gestured between the two of you. “Even if we developed feelings for each other, our engagement is still fake. You could still go to jail. I care about you and your family too much to risk that.”

“Okay, here me out.” Tom began. “Could jail really be that bad?”

“Oh my God.” You groaned and tried to shut the door.

“And it’s not even guaranteed I’d go to jail.” He continued as he held your door open. “Chances are, the IRCC never finds out that the marriage started as a scam.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“I’m saying it’s worth the risk to me. I would risk potentially going to jail to give us the time we deserve. Because I do love you.” He promised. “And I know you love me. As much as you don’t want those things to be true, they are. So suck it up, and let me love you. For Gods sake, woman.”

“I’m sorry, was that a proposal?”

“I’m sorry.” He rubbed his eyes. “There are like 500 hotels in Canada and I was up all night trying to find the one you were in.”

“It’s okay.” You chuckled a little.

“Let me try again.” He asked before getting down on one knee. “Y/n, will you marry me so that we can date?”

“What if we don’t work out?” You fear as you chewed your bottom lip.

“What if we do?” He shrugged.

“Well, I can’t argue with that.” You chuckled.

“Is that a yes?” He asked hopefully.

“Yes.” You rolled your eyes at him. “I’ll marry you.”

“Did she say yes?” Sams voice came from somewhere in the hallway.

“Shut up!” Harry answered him. “I can’t hear.”

“Both of you, knock it off.” Nikki snapped her fingers. “I can’t hear her answer.”

You looked at Tom with a raised eyebrow as he got off his knee.

“Okay, my family is in the hallway.” He admitted. “But it wasn’t my idea. They begged me to come along.”

“All of them?” You asked.

“They really missed you.” He shrugged, making your face light up.

“I said yes!” You yelled out, loud enough for the family to hear. They all came rushing into your room and enveloped you in a group hug, cheering and crying over the news.

“We’re getting married!” Tom yelled over his family’s cheers.

“Fuck the government!” You yelled back before pulling him into a long, reunion kiss.

One month later

“And now, the vows.” The priest said as he took a step back.

You were standing across from Tom on the alter in his aunts hotel on your highly anticipated wedding day. You’d been staying in the UK on “vacation” as you planned your wedding, adding in a few more details now that you had more time. You were still in Nikki’s wedding dress, but this time, you were wearing Toms old tennis shoes. Paddy had lent you a blue handkerchief of his, which you had tied into your hair. Your entire office had come out to see you, all of them insisting they’d never miss your big day. Best of all, Tom was fresh off getting lovely reviews from the media after his book was received by the public.

“Tom.” You began your vows. “You are the most patient person I have ever met. You have overcome everything I’ve thrown your way with grace and resilience. And I have thrown a lot. I even threw a pencil sharpener at his head once.”

You paused to let the crowd laugh at you joke, even though you weren’t joking.

“Over the past two years, you have been by my side every single day without fail. And after today, you’ll be be my side for the rest of my life.” You continued with a smile. “And I couldn’t be happier about that. I’m so lucky to have found someone who refuses to give up on me. To have found the first person to take the time to get to know me, despite every effort I made to never let such a thing happen. Tom looked past all the walls I put up and decided I was someone who was worth getting to know, and for that I’ll forever be grateful. I’ll forever be grateful for a lot of things he’s done.”

“I did not like Y/n for a long time.” Tom began, making the guests laugh. “I thought she was mean and cold and weird for drinking matcha. Like, who lives in England and doesn’t drink tea? I’ll never understand it. But I’ll never understand a lot of things about Y/n. Like how I can’t stay mad at her, even when she throws things at my head. Or how right when I think I have her figured out, she does something completely out of nowhere. Like publishing my book that I didn’t even know she read. Y/n may come off as mean and frigid, but she’s not. She’s actually really sweet when she wants to be. But only when she wants to be. And if you’re lucky enough to gain her trust, she’ll let you in. And that’s when you’ll meet the one the most intelligent, passionate, beautiful, bitchiest women in the world. And you’ll fall just as deeply in love with her as I have.”

You smiled brightly at Tom as a tear of joy slipped from your eye. He reached forward to wipe it with his thumb as the priest went on.

“Do you, Tom, take Y/n to be your lawfully wedded wife?” He asked. “To have and to hold, until death do you part?”

“I do.”

“And do you, Y/n, take Tom to be your lawfully wedded husband? In sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“If anyone should have any objections, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

You held your breath and looked at the crowd, anticipating at least one person to object. To your surprise, there was not one dry eye in the house. Everyone, including your employees, was in tears. You looked back at Tom in disbelief and he gave you a wink.

“By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.” The priest said. “You may kiss your spouse.”

Tom was quick to put his hands on your face and pull you into a kiss, as he had been anticipated it from the moment you walked down the isle. You kissed him back as the crowd erupting into applause and cheers. Once the pictures were taken and the final words were said, you ran down the isle hand in hand.

The reception was held in a room right next store as Toms family and your employees gathered together. You changed into a casual white slip dress and kept your tennis shoes on so you could be more comfortable. After the reception and a few goodbyes to his family, you drove back to your apartment to spend the night.

“I can’t believe it.” Tom sighed happily as you walked through the front door. “We’re really married.”

“Not yet.” You reminded him as you rested your hands on his shoulders. “Our appointment is at 8 am tomorrow at city hall. Harry said he’d be our witness.”

“You made my family really happy today.” He smiled up at you while his fingers drummed your waistline. “They really like having you around.”

“I like them.” You replied. “I’m honored to be a Holland.”

“You don’t have to change your last name if you don’t want to.” He said softly. “I know it’s a sexist tradition and everything. I wouldn’t be offended if you kept yours.”

“Tom, I want to take your last name.” You chuckled. “It’s been a long time since I’ve had the last name of someone who loved me.”

A fond smile tugged at Toms lips before he stepped forward. He silently pulled you into kiss, letting his rough fingers spread across your face. You tugged him by the tie as you stumbled back into your bedroom, never letting your lips leave his. Tom pulled away for a moment to pull his tie over his head and place it around your neck, using it to pull you closer as he slipped his tongue into your mouth.

“You know.” You smiled against his lips. “We might just get away with this.”

“Oh, darling.” He sighed happily. “I think we already have.”

Three years later

“Hello. My name is Sandra.” Your IRCC agent sat in front of you and smiled tightly. “I’ll be handling your case today. You two must be Mr. and Mrs.-“

“Holland.” You finished her sentence with a smile. “Nice to meet you.”

“You as well.” She nodded and shook yours and Toms hand. “I see you’re applying for naturalisation.”

“Yes, sir.” You replied. “I would like an adjustment of status for my citizenship.”

“I see.” She said as she looked over your file. “How long have the two of you been married?”

“Three years.” Tom answered.

“Have you lived in the UK the whole time?” Sandra asked.

“Yes, we have.” You nodded as you slipped your fingers through Toms. He brought your enjoined hands to his lap and held them there while his leg anxiously bounced.

“And you both work?”

“Yes.” Tom said. “We’re the chief editors at the Bullock Publishing Company.”

“And Toms a published author.” You added. “A successful one, too.”

“Wow. Chief editors.” Sandra raised her eyebrows. “So, are you familiar with the process of naturalization?”

“Yes. I have all my forms right here.” You handed her a folder full of your processing forms.

“And you passed the life in the UK test?” She asked as she looked through the folder.

“On her first try.” Tom added. “She didn’t even have to study.”

“Have you ever broken a law?”

“Nope.” You shook your head. “Not even a speeding ticket.”

“Hm.” Sandra looked between the two of you skeptically. “How long were you together before you were married?”

“Two years.” Tom answered. That was the only part you had to lie about, but the rest of your story was truthful. You’d been living in the UK for the past three years as Toms wife, and now it was time to become a real citizen. Sandra looked between the two of you again, not liking how seemingly perfect your story was.

“We met at work.” Tom added when he sensed the doubt. “I used to be her assistant.”

“He stills gets my coffee for me, though.” You smiled at him. “Even after three years of working in the same position as me, he gets my coffee like he’s my assistant. Isn’t that sweet?”

“I don’t mind.” Tom insisted. “After we were married, she changed her coffee order to match mine. Cute, right?”

“We drink tea, actually.” You piped up. “Because who would live in the UK but not drink tea?”

You gulped loudly as Toms leg continued to bounce. You’d managed to get away with it for three years, and you could only hope this meeting wouldn’t jeopardize everything.

“Okay.” Sandra sighed and put your forms down. “We’ll review your case and get back to you in the next few months.”

“Okay.” You smiled nervously. “Thank you so much.”

You grabbed Toms hand and pulled him out of the office as fast as you could.

“She didn’t suspect anything.” Tom said once you were in the car. “I think we actually got away with this.”

“I know.” You laughed in disbelief. “Did we just successfully pull off a fake marriage?”

Tom quieted down all the sudden, looking down at his lap before staring out the window.

“Do you...do you still think it’s fake?” He asked quietly without looking at you.

“Tom, no.” You put your hand on his face and made him look at you. “The engagement was fake. Or, for fake reasons. But the marriage is real to me. It’s been real to me since your mom walked in on us kissing that one day.”

Tom smiled a little a nodded, feeling better now that you reassured him. He took your hand off his face and kissed it as he held eye contact with you.

“Okay. I’m sorry.” He smiled sheepishly. “I was just wondering because I always thought of it as real.”

“Okay, good.” You squeezed his hand. “Then we’re on the same page.”

6 months later, you found a letter from the government addressed to you in the mailbox. You opened it as you walked back inside the house, freezing in your tracks when you realized what it was.

“Whats that, darling?” Tom asked when he noticed your expression.

“The Home Office approved my citizenship.” You looked up at him with wide eyes. “I passed. I’m officially a UK citizen.”

“What?!” He rushed towards you and scooped you into a hug. “Thats incredible. Congratulations.”

“I can’t believe it.” You squeezed him tightly as tears of joy streamed down your face. “I’m a citizen. This is amazing.”

Tom pulled away to give you a congratulatory kiss. He pressed kisses all over your face as you giggled in his arms.

“Wait.” He let go of you with a sad look on his face. “What does this mean for us?”

“What do you mean?” You wondered.

“Well, you’re a citizen now. Technically, you don’t need to be married to me.” Tom said quietly. You gave him a sympathetic look and stroked his cheek with your thumb.

“I know.” You told him. “But I want to be.”

“You do?” He asked hopefully. “You still do, even though you don’t have to?”

“I do.” You promised. “I told you, this is real to me.”

“Okay.” He sighed in relief. “Good.”

“You don’t have to worry about me running anymore, Tom. You’re my family now.” You smiled softly and rested your hand on his face. “And I’m not anywhere.”

“Me either.” He said as he pulled you into a hug. “I’m not going anywhere either.”

THE END

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#tom holland x reader #Tom Holland x you #tom holland smut #Tom Holland fake dating #tom holland fluff #tom holland fanfiction #tom holland x you #spiderman

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theshelbyclan · 4 years

Text

Swords and Daggers

Summary: When a family meeting is interrupted by your sudden menstrual cramps, your brothers do everything in their power to take care of you

(gif by @nofckingfighting) A/N: Anon requested: can you do a shelby!sister imagine where she’s gets these awful cramps and in the middle of a family meeting she just bursts into tears because it hurts so bad and omg the boys would be so soft As I’m currently dying of cramps, it made sense to write this. It’s short, but I hope you like it. Words: 1585 *** “This Saturday,” Tommy started, “We’re going legit. John, you and Johnny Dogs are gathering the men at the Charlie’s yard. Arthur, I need you on the tracks, keep the Lee men off. You can take Finn. I will create a distraction and… Y/N, are you okay?” “Fine,” you ground out, not really wanting to attract attention to yourself, “Tell me where I’ll be.”

“At home,” your brother said shortly. “Like hell I am,” you said, “If we’re going legit, I want in. Why the fuck else am I even here?” “Fuck if I know,” Polly sighed, “being decorative, I suppose.” Tommy shot daggers at his aunt and then turned back to you, “If you ladies have any problems with how I run…” “If we have any problems, we know to shut out mouths and get on with it,” Ada commented from the other side of the round table. “Remember we used to run this entire organisation, Thomas,” Polly scolded, “While you boys were off to France.” “Yes,” Thomas sighed, downing his drink, “I am aware, Pol,” Her look still had some effect on him, much to her satisfaction, “You remember that when you no longer care for our input.” “Fine!” he caved, “Y/N, what role do you want to play?” But you had stopped listening already. In all honesty, you didn’t feel well at all and so Tommy’s words seem to come from very far away. Still, you’d fought years and years to feel like you were a part of the Shelby Company Limited. Women were respected in this family, but never quite on the same level as the men. Sure, it’d been fine for you to take care of business while your brothers were away, and you and Aunt Polly had happily taken on the entire enterprise. With her head for strategy and your head for numbers, sharing the iron Shelby backbone, it’d been quite the dream team. But the boys came back and without many words of thanks, it’d been taken from you as well. There were so many mixed emotions that came with their return from France, but a day didn’t go by that you didn’t curse those men up top who decided to send boys into the mud to die for them. Tommy still stared at you, impatient and a little annoyed, so you said, “I’ll go to Epsom early. I still have the dress. I’ll let Arthur know where the Lee men are and what they’re planning.” Arthur grumbled something inaudibly and when you fixed him with one of your glares, he said, “You want to waltz in there, all dolled up and ready for the taking by any Lee bastard?” “Think I can’t do it, Arthur?” you said coldly. “We know you can do it,” Tommy interrupted, “Doesn’t mean we have to like it.” “I’m not fucking seven, Thomas,” you spat. Another sharp pain went through you and you found yourself physically doubling over in your chair. John immediately turned towards you, “What’s the matter?” “I’m good,” you tried to smile. “Doesn’t look like it…” “Maybe it’s food poisoning,” Arthur ventured. “It’s not.” “What is it then?” Both brothers said in unison. “Just…” you gritted your teeth as another wave of pain came over you, “leave me alone!” “Can’t do that, little sister,” Arthur moved to touch your arm, but you angrily pushed him away.

“She’s not doing good, Tommy,” John’s voice was full of alarm.

Arthur even stood up, “And she’s not fighting any bloody Lee men like that!”

“Calm down,” Aunt Polly said, “Women have been doing it for ages, every month, come hell or high water.”

“That may be so,” Tommy put down his drink, “but this is our sister.”

“I’m fine…” you croaked again, but you weren’t, at all.

“You’re not,” another unhelpful brother said, “you need to be in bed.”

“WILL YOU ALL FUCKING STOP TELLING ME WHAT TO FUCKING DO!” you suddenly burst out, and before you knew it, you had started sobbing.

“Oh no…” John said softly.

“Tom,” Arthur said unsurely, not knowing what to do with himself, “What do we do?”

He quickly took charge and picked you up from your seat. Held bridal style, he walked around the table and you could feel your brothers’ gaze on you, “She needs to be in bed.”

You still protested weakly, “Tommy…”

“Shhh,” he said softly, “We can talk about your plan to seduce the Lees in the morning, eh?”

As he walked with you up the stairs, you suddenly felt yourself lean into him. It felt safe, right there in his arms.

“Water bottles?” you heard one panicky brother shout downstairs.

“Boil the water!” the other replied, “I’ll get the blankets!”

“Ada! Where the bloody hell did you hide that chocolate?!”

You had to smile a little, “You’d think I’m dying…”

“Well, the truth is, sweetheart,” Tommy said in that soft voice he reserved only for you, “We have no idea what you’re going through. We spend half our lives talking to women, flirting with women, being with women…”

“Yeah, alright, I get the point,” you cut him off jokingly.

He pretended like he hadn’t heard you, but a small smile was tugging at his lips, “But we have no idea what it feels like, to lose all that blood…”

“What about France?” you asked.

“That was different, love,” he gently placed you on your bed, “That was a one-time thing and not a monthly struggle. Besides, we weren’t expected to just ignore it and get on with work.”

“I want to work,” you pouted.

Tommy sighed, “Y/N. Listen to me. I know you want to work for the company. I know you. You’re a Shelby and you don’t like being idle. I know. But for tonight, work is done. Get some sleep, eh?”

Suddenly, Arthur came rushing in. It was clear he felt incredibly awkward, but the fact that his arms were filled with hot-water bottles, blankets and chocolate showed he cared, deeply. There were times that you loved your awkward brother more than anyone in the world, and this was one of those moments. You smiled at him full of gratitude and he left quickly after, knowing he’d be back every few hours to check on you. He was the oldest brother after all.

You tried to find a comfortable position for a few moments and the occasional grunt of pain escaped your lips. Tommy looked at you with worry written all over his face, “Don’t know how you fucking do it every month…” he whispered.

“Careful,” you feigned shock, “people might think you’re a feminist.”

He slowly lit a cigarette, “And what if I am, eh?”

You scoffed and reached out, “Give me the cigarette. It helps.”

Another few minutes passed and John stuck his head around the door, “Y/N? Esme tells me it helps when I rub her back. Do you need me to do that?”

“I’ll be fine, John, thanks,” you smiled at him. Where you and Arthur had a bond that required no words, with John it was all words, but they were always good and open and honest. If you needed to talk, you turned to John.

He paused for a second, “What about a doctor, do you need a doctor?”

This made you laugh out loud, “John, sweetheart, this is perfectly normal and it does happen every month. We’d be wasting the doctor’s time!”

“Esme told me to tell you that it’s perfectly normal and there’s nothing wrong with you…”

“I know, John. I’m sixteen: I’ve been doing this for a while now.”

“Right,” he mumbled, “I knew that…”

“John?” you eventually asked and when he looked at you again, you said, “Thank you. I’ll manage.”

“Will you let me know?” John said with a serious look on his face, “If you do need something?”

“How? You’re four houses away. I’m not screaming loud enough for you to hear it, waking up the whole bloody street!”

“Just knock,” he replied, “Sleeping in my old bed tonight, just down the hall,” and before you could protest, he was gone and called from the hall, “Goodnight, babe!”

Tommy still sat in the corner, smoking quietly. You weren’t quite sure why he was there, but his presence was comforting. With Arthur it was protection, with John it was words, but with Tommy it was just his presence. When you two locked eyes, he gave you a warm smile, and it was just like you were six again. Before that god-awful war, he’d always been there. Tommy was the brother who couldn’t be dragged away from his little sister, always trying to get you to ride his pony. He followed you wherever you went and he gave you everything you ever wanted. But after the war, his head was filled with smoke, mud and ambition. But this, this felt like before, and it was good. Maybe it was even worth the swords and daggers attacking your uterus at the moment.

You started feeling yourself drifting off to sleep, with the warm bottle pressed against your abdomen. But before you slept, you mumbled, “I love you, Tommy…”

“Is this another hormonal thing?” a deep voice said in reply, with some sarcasm echoing through.

“Probably,” you smirked, “I’ll hate you again tomorrow, alright?”

“Good. You can take out that anger on the Lees, eh?”

“I will,” you heard your own voice was getting muffled. Still, you felt a small triumph of being allowed to go in the morning.

“Sleep, Y/N,” he almost sung, from a great distance it seemed, “And I love you too.”

***

Masterlist

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haitanirindo · 3 years

Text

zukka fics that live in my head rent free!

1. what did you bury before those hands pulled me from the earth (what were you digging) by draco_sollicitus status: complete (18k words) rating: mature pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: Sokka is immortal; it's been tested, he knows that he can't die. He's immortal, but he's not quite a god like his sister, Katara. He's immortal, but he's not quite powerful like his friends Aang and Toph. He's just sort of Sokka: good at fixing things, good at playing pranks, good at helping people. When a bet against Toph goes horribly wrong, and an attempt to save him goes even worse, Sokka finds himself the unwilling guest of the Lord of the Underworld. And, strangely enough, every story Sokka's heard about Lord Zuko seems to be ... completely wrong. (Also, he's really handsome. Why does he have to be handsome?)

mythology nerds come get y’all juice. a very good fic. 10/10

2. Where I Want to Be by through-the-stars-to-the-pavement status: WIP (83k words) rating: explicit pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: "'The fog was where I wanted to be.'" Everything is different. The pitch of his voice, his posture. The auditorium goes silent. No one can take their eyes off of him.… He's amazing. Zuko had to perfect the art of acting as a child to survive the horrors of his homelife. When he got older, it was only natural to take his talent to the stage for entertainment and escape. Enter Sokka, a craftsman and set designer with a giant heart who is haunted by plenty of ghosts of his own. A tale of trauma, disability, family, creativity, and love.

this is one of my all time favorite fics. it’s seriously so good and i think about it often

3. Teaching a Heart by @i-write-shakespeare-not-disney status: WIP (114k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: Sokka is asked to go to the Fire Nation to teach the crown prince how to sword fight. When he arrives, he's surprised to learn he has to pose as a companion before he can teach the stubborn prince because he rejects every teacher. Far from home and among new customs, Sokka struggles to gain the prince's trust and friendship despite the uncertainties of the customs and dynamics he sees. As he slowly finds answers to his questions, his bond with the prince grows until it becomes something far more ardent than friendship. Doomed as it may be with the prince's approaching wedding ceremony and coronation, Sokka and Zuko find themselves consumed by what they find in each other.

i have no words, i just love this fic and it makes me weep.

4. The Road Between Action and Inaction by @donvex status: complete (17k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: Sokka does a shitty k turn in the parking lot across from the bus station, pulls up to the curb where the boy is looking determinedly at his phone, and rolls down the passenger window. “Hey! Which way were you going?” He may die, but at least his conscience will be clear. The guy blinks at him. “Don’t.” Oh, he’s prickly. Or: the hitchhiker au, featuring Sokka and Zuko falling in love without even realizing it.

a classic. roadtrip fics own my ass.

5. purrfect for eachother by lesmiserablol status: complete (3k words) rating: general audiences pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: “Let me teach you how to be a cat person,” Zuko says. “Learning from the master himself,” Sokka grins. “Alright, this can’t be too hard. Show me what you got.” (because sometimes, it takes going to a cat café four times to realize you're in love with your best friend)

this whole series is adorable, reading it is self care

6. Ashes Inside When You Finish Your Song by @muncaster status: complete (47k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko, aang/katara, mai/ty lee summary: Sokka writes lyrics for his sister’s band. Zuko plays piano and is unnecessarily nice. Fellas, is it gay to write love songs about your friend and his golden eyes? (AKA, a modern band AU featuring The Gaang, crappy software equipment, homoerotic lyrics, and the realization that maybe, if you think about a guy every night before you sleep, you just might be in love with him.)

i think this is the longest one-shot i’ve ever read and it’s so worth it

7. a study in matchmaking by @verdanthoney status: complete (12k words) rating: general audiences pairing(s): sokka/zuko, aang/katara, bato/hakoda summary: Zuko and Sokka try to play matchmaker, but things don't go exactly as planned.

this fic makes me want to scream, in the best way. it’s so cute

8. A Predictable Story by mindbending status: complete (7k words) rating: general audiences pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: "On this night, you shall share a kiss with a great love of your life!” That lying, scummy Aunt Wu predicts a grand romance for Sokka. To disprove her "fortunetelling" once and for all, Sokka decides to spend the night with least romantic person he knows. Zuko.

again, i have no words. this fic is cute as hell

9. that’s murder, buddy by @bisexual-atla status: WIP (14k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: Throughout the streets, on quiet nights, it was rumored the screams of those missing could be heard. Some say the sounds were coming from underground. Where were the young girls? And what was happening to them? Was an evil spirit haunting Gaoling, or something more human? More sinister? My name is Zuko, and you’re tuning into another episode of ‘That’s Murder, Buddy’. Or: Sokka has no idea that his crush is the host of his favorite podcast. (But everyone else knows.)

i love the entire concept of this one, we love oblivious sokka

10. We’ll play hide and seek (to turn this around) by @crosspin status: complete (5k words) rating: general audiences pairing(s): sokka/zuko, bato/hakoda summary: Sokka gave him a sheepish smile. “It’s…well, you see, there’s this boy…” Hakoda sighed and set down the sports section. This was going to take a while. “He works at Barnes & Noble. At the big information desk in the middle. Every Saturday. And I really want to ask him for his number, but it’s super awkward because there’s always this other guy working the information desk at the same time. He’s old, like you. But I have a plan." Sokka’s eyes lit up deviously. “You come with me to Barnes & Noble today when they’re working and distract the old man. And while you have him distracted, I’ll swoop in and get the goods!” Sokka has a plan to ask out the cute boy at the bookstore. Hakoda is a begrudging participant until he meets the boy's beautiful older coworker.

this fic!! this fic! adorable, incredible, magnificent

11. feels like we only go backwards by @oldpotatoe status: WIP (88k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: [Time passes oddly. Between one second and the next, Sokka has the Fire Lord pinned to the wall with his hands around the bastard’s throat. Golden eyes (one gold eye, his mind whispers) widen in shock. “Sokka?” he chokes out. And then he smiles. What the fuck? “Sokka, I—” Sokka slams his head against the wall, once, twice, and the smile wipes off his face. Good. “What,” Sokka bites out, “have you done to my sister?”] Or: An injury leaves Sokka with amnesia. His last memory is of the failed invasion, of leaving his father behind in enemy territory on the Day of Black Sun. Of hopelessness. Rage. But then he wakes up, and the war is over. Suddenly, he must come to terms with the fact that years have passed, and that he's somehow the Southern Water Tribe Ambassador to the Fire Nation. He is also supposedly friends with banished-Prince-turned-Fire-Lord Zuko, of all people. Close friends. Yeah, nah.

if you’ve been following me for a while you know this fic fucks me up beyond belief

12. breakable heaven by @fruitysokka status: WIP (43k words) rating: teen and up pairing(s): sokka/zuko summary: With his twenty-first birthday looming just around the corner, the Southern Water Tribe Elders have decided that Sokka, next in line to be Chief, needs to get married. Sokka does not want that, but he does need to get them off his back until he can figure his way out of it. What better way to do that than to pretend to date his best friend (and newly minted Ambassador to the Southern Water Tribe) Zuko? Seriously, this is a foolproof plan. Maybe one of Sokka's best. Absolutely nothing can go wrong.

this just in: sokka and zuko being oblivious makes me want to yell

this turned out a bit longer than i expected but it also doesn’t even cover all my favorites. i had to stop somewhere, or i’d be here forever. maybe i’ll make a part two someday.

anyway, enjoy!

#cas recs things #fic rec #atla #zukka #cas speaks #text #zukka fics #zukka nation

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babymetaldoll · 3 years

Text

The BAU First online Secret Santa (aka: Rossi vs Zoom) (Spencer Reid/ Reader)

Summary: Rossi might have said too much when he wasn't muted in the BAU online Secret Santa Celebration. And Reid is too embarrassed to face (Y/N) afterward.

Requested: Yes. My boyfriend asked me to write this, and asked for some specific gifts for some team members. (Based on season 7 of Criminal Minds in COVID quarantine).

Pairing: Spencer Reid/ Reader- feat the whole team

Warnings: None

Word count: 3K

Masterlist

- “Hello?”- Penelope waved at Rossi, but he didn’t reply. She sighed and stared at the camera on her computer, and nearly started jumping and waving.

- “Rossi!! Hey!”

- “Penelope??”- Rossi screamed, looking at the screen, unable to find the tab with the Zoom video conference on his navigator. He could hear her but couldn’t see her.

- “Where are you??”

- “Rossi!! I can’t hear you! you are muted!”- Penelope was already frustrated, and it had been only two minutes.

Rossi had been struggling using Zoom the whole quarantine. Every online meeting for the last couple of months had been filled with “Rossi, you are muted,” “Rossi, we can see you picking your nose,” “Rossi, you aren’t mute, we can hear you fart.” It had been as frustrating as funny for the team.

- “Hey!”- Prentiss waved at the camera- “Where’s everybody?”

- “We’ve got Rossi trying to find us and unmute his mic”- Emily chuckled and nodded- “And Hotch just logged in… hey!”

- “Hello everybody”- Aaron Hotchner waved, and his son Jack appeared in the back of the room, waving too.

- “Did you clean your room?”- he asked his son

- “Yes…”- it was clear Jack was lying

- “So if I go upstairs right now, your room is going to be clean, your bed made, and your toys in their place?- Jack stayed still and just smiled. Slowly, he turned around and ran back to his room.

- “Hey, how did you change your background?”- Emily asked Garcia, who started explaining how to do it.

- “Henry! what is it?”- JJ logged into the conversation, but her attention was really on her son, who kept crying somewhere near her.

- “Hello? Hey? can you hear me?”

- “Hey Spence!!”- Prentiss and Garcia said at the same time and chuckled.

- “Hello! How’s everybody!”- he smiled and stared at his screen.

For someone who hated technology, he was pretty comfortable meeting the team online. Maybe because his germaphobic self was glad they didn’t have to go to the BAU if there was a pandemic going on.

Germs were worse than technology, which was good to know when it came to his phobias.

- “Baby girl, what are you doing?”- Derek’s voice interrupted Garcia’s class of “How to change backgrounds one on one.” Emily enjoyed her time switching pictures on his background, laughing, while JJ tried to convince Henry to eat his banana. Hotch was reading a case file, not paying attention to anything going on around him. Rossi was lost and muted still, trying to find the right tab in his browser, and Spencer was reading a book, sipping a cup of coffee.

- “Hey!!”- (Y/N) waved at the screen and stared at the scene. Everyone in the BAU was on their little bubble.

- “Hello, hey! How are you?”- Spencer closed the book and waved. (Y/N) blushed and waved back. She just stared at him, and all the memories of their last video call came to mind.

They had literally spent the night together. They started a video call around seven, then cooked dinner. Spencer actually cooked ‘cos (Y/N) gave him an easy cooking lesson online. Both of them ate spaghetti with homemade bolognese sauce.

They started talking and talking, drinking tea, and coffee, and cocoa, and more tea. They snuggled on their couches and kept on talking, laughing. Somehow they started reading each other their favorite parts of their favorite books. And somehow, they ended up in their beds, drinking one last cup of tea. They were hugging a pillow, wishing they could actually hug each other, but never saying those words. And so they kept talking until they fell asleep.

(Y/N) had fallen asleep first. Spencer felt he had bored her ‘till she passed out, but the truth was, she had made her best effort to stay awake but failed at four in the morning. She loved talking with Spencer. She loved Spencer, all of him, including all the facts and statistics he would ramble on for hours.

If only she knew he felt the same. He could hear her ramble about books and albums she loved. He didn’t know half the bands she talked about but always googled them after their conversations to understand her a little bit better. And to add facts to their next talk.

- “Rossi! Rossi! unmute your mic”- Aaron repeated for the hundredth time during the call, but Rossi still had no idea what he was doing.

- “Ok, ok, don’t touch anything, I’m hacking into your computer,”- Garcia simply said, already tired of waiting. It wasn’t the first time she had done it during the latest months. I wouldn’t be the last either.

- “Hello? can you hear me?”

- “Yes, David”- Aaron nodded and almost smiled- “Hello everybody, I trust you are all having a nice day.”

It was their annual Secret Santa, and for the first time, it was online. They had all made sure to mail their presents earlier enough, and everybody had gotten theirs already. It was December 24th, and though it was still just noon, Rossi enjoyed the first whiskey of the day.

- “I sent you all cookies!!”- Penelope clapped and smiled, staring into the camera- “Did you all get it?”

- “Yes!”- they all answered but (Y/N).

- “No… I didn’t”

- “What?! But I sent them yesterday! the delivery said you had gotten them,”- Penelope explained, but (Y/N) just shook her head.

- “Sorry Garcia, I just got my Secret Santa present this week, and that’s it”

- “Someone stole your cookies, pretty girl!”- Derek chuckled and took a bit of one of his- “Your lost, ‘cos they are delicious.”

- “Great… not only I get to spend Christmas alone, now I have to bake my own cookies.”- she groaned and sighed.

- “What? Alone?”- JJ was in shock- “What about your family? Family get-togethers are allowed this weekend. It just has to be less than ten people in each house.”

- “They live in Seattle, and I can’t travel ‘cos I don’t wanna expose my grandparents to any risk, so I decided to spend Christmas alone”- (Y/N) cut the team a short smile. They all wide opened their eyes in shock. Christmas alone was never a good plan.

- “Me and Jack are going to spend it with his grandfather and aunt. We would be glad to have you over.”- Hotch immediately said, and (Y/N) smiled.

- “Thank you, but that’s ok, it’s just Christmas…”- that really didn’t sound good.

- “I’m gonna be alone too,”- Spencer texted her ‘cos he didn’t want to say it in front of the team- “Do you wanna spend Christmas with me? I can save you some cookies”.

(Y/N) chuckled as she read, and Spencer smiled, staring at her. You don’t usually get to see the reaction of the person you text. And he loved it.

- “Why are you going to be alone?”- she wrote back

- “Same as you, I don’t wanna expose my mom, and she is all the family I’ve got. She’ll spend Christmas with aunt Ethel”.

- “Hey! (Y/N), are you listening?”- Penelope waved and nearly yelled.

- “Sorry, what?”- (Y/N) left the phone aside and tried to focus on the team.

- “JJ was saying you are also welcome to spend it with her mom, Henry, and Will.”

- “Thank you guys, but… I think I’ll be ok.”

She blushed at those words and made her best not to look at Spencer as she smiled. Which was incredibly useless, ‘cos no one knew where Spencer’s image was on her screen. And at the same time, it was so easy for the team to profile what was going on. That’s why neither of them said another word.

- “Ok, can we start opening presents now?”- Prentiss asked. Her background was now a beach, and she had put on a big hat and sunglasses. Penelope and JJ laughed at her so loud that they didn’t listen when Aaron said they should make a distant toast.

- “Wait! let me get something to drink!”- (Y/N) stood up quickly and poured herself a cup of tea.

- “Ok, now I’m ready, sorry”- and when she looked at the screen, Spencer was blushing, and everybody was chuckling.

- “What did I miss?”

- “Nothing pretty girl”- Derek just smiled- “Let’s do the presents thing… who wants to start?”

- “Henry is pretty restless today, so if you guys don’t mind, I want to start”- JJ waved and showed everybody her present.

“You have to guess who gave you your present,”- Emily explained and sipped her cup of coffee.

- “Alright… let’s see… I got this envelope from my Secret Santa and… it’s just what I needed!!”- JJ smiled and nearly jumped on her seat

- “It’s a whole spa day!! Mom needs a day off when this pandemic ends!! thank you, Secret Santa!!”

- “Who do you think gave you that?”- Penelope asked, and JJ looked at each one of her teammates on the screen.

- I’m gonna go with… Hotch, ‘cos I think he understands exactly what’s like being a parent in quarantine- Aaron chuckled and shook his head.

- “Sorry, I would have given you that, though, but it wasn’t me.”

- “Then who?”- Rossi raised his hand and smiled

- “I noticed you were a little… stressed last time we talked. I thought maybe when this whole thing ends, you would enjoy a day to treat yourself.”

- “Thank you so much, Rossi. I really appreciate it!!”

The whole team continued opening their presents and laughed, trying to guess who was their Secret Santa. Hotch got a horrible (and yet adorable) Christmas sweater with a gigantic Rudolph on it and a matching one for Jack. He guessed right away it was from Penelope.

Hotch bought García a fantastic pair of high heels and confessed he had picked them himself. Aaron Hotchner had a pretty good fashion sense. Who knew?

Rossi opened his present and laughed, shocked. It was one costly and hard to find Scotch bottle. He thought it was from Emily, but no, it was from (Y/N).

- “I remembered you said it was your favorite, and I thought maybe you’d like to share it with us next time we have a real get-together in your house.”

- “It’s very nice and naive of you to think I might actually share this present with anyone”- Rossi smiled and waved at the screen- “Thank you, kid.”

Emily got a weekend in Vegas from JJ to make it up for the “Sin to Win” weekend she lost because of a case a few months before. And again, she refused to explain to the team what “Sin to Win” meant.

Morgan got a life provision of baby oil to rub on his six pack and biceps each time he took his shirt off. It was a joke from Emily, and Rossi nearly had a heart attack laughing at it. Penelope wanted a demonstration, but Derek promised a private show. Prentiss also got him a new kit of tools for home repairs, which always came in handy for him… mostly to fix all the doors he kicked.

- “And what did you get, Spence?”- JJ asked, now holding Henry in her arms, trying to keep him calm. Reid opened his present and smiled. It wasn’t a happy smile though, it was a “are you fucking kidding me?” smile.

- “Dating for Dummies”- he said and showed the book- “And I’m pretty sure this is from Morgan.”

- “As soon as this quarantine ends, you and I are going to a club, so you better study that book, ‘cos I’m gonna make you put it on good use.”

Morgan joked, but after all those years, it just wasn’t funny anymore, not for Spencer, at least.

- “And last but not least, what did you get (Y/N)?”- Penelope’s eyes were shining. She loved Secret Santa. She had forced Hotch to put on his sweater, and he was now feeling like a dork on camera. Garcia, of course, had taken many screen-captures to save that amazing moment.

- “Well, I’m pretty sure this is from Spencer”- she smiled, ‘cos he was the only one left. He blushed and waved.

- “I hope you like it”- (Y/N) unwrapped the present carefully and smiled, surprised.

- “Where did you get this?”- it was an original edition of The Little Prince, in french. It was tough to find.

- “You said you loved the book ‘cos your mom read it to you when you were a kid, so… I thought you’d like it.”

(Y/N) couldn’t stop going through each page, as a million memories of her childhood came to her mind. Her mother had passed away when she was in high school, and the book meant more to her than anyone could imagine.

- “Thank you”- she whispered and bit her lip, making her best not to cry.

- “Jesus Christ! When is he going to tell her he loves her!?”- Rossi nearly yelled. He was in the back of his office, pouring himself a glass of his Secret Santa present.

The whole team stayed quiet, making their best not to laugh. Spencer wanted to die. He rested his head on the desk and controlled the urge to leave the conversation.

- “Hey, Rossi… just so you know, you weren’t muted.”- Prentiss managed to say and chuckled. He looked at the screen and stayed quiet.

- “Ok... I think I’m gonna go now. This Scotch is already getting to my head, so… see you guys!!”- Rossi waved and tried to leave.

- “Fuck! I hope I didn’t ruin it for the kid. Well, someone had to say it anyway”- he whispered, embarrassed.

- “Rossi, we can still hear you. You didn’t close the conversation, just minimized it”- JJ warned him, and that time, everybody burst out laughing.

- “Ok, I’m gonna go now…”- Spencer couldn’t even look at (Y/N) anymore. He just waved and closed Zoom.

- “I’m gonna go too”- (Y/N) whispered- “I hope everybody has a nice holiday!”- she didn’t even wait for anyone to say anything else. She just left the conversation and walked to the kitchen to get herself a glass of water.

What the hell had just happened?

Spencer had a panic attack. What was he supposed to do now? Confess his feelings? Rossi had already done it for him. Should he call (Y/N) and tell her it was just a joke? Tell her the truth? Invite her over for Christmas, again?

- “Fuck!!”- he shouted and walked to his kitchen. Some whiskey Morgan left last time he visited was still there, and though Reid wasn’t much of a drinker, he needed one.

He honestly had no idea what to do. He knew he couldn’t face (Y/N) now. How? he would fluster just to be in the same room with her. Rossi really ruined everything. It seemed it was the end of the world.

- “I’m gonna have to quit, move from DC, change my name, start my life from scratch…”

Yes, Spencer was making a drama out of the whole situation. But in his defense, he had never been in that kind of situation before.

It was eight pm when Spencer heard a knock on the door. He had been lying on his couch most of the afternoon, trying to read. Still, his mind kept coming back to (Y/N) and the embarrassment he felt after Rossi’s comment.

- “Hi”- (Y/N) whispered as soon as Reid opened the door, and his heart stopped- “You said I could come for Christmas… so…”- he stood still and just nodded. She was there, wearing a Dr. Who mask, with some snowflakes on her coat.

- “Can I come in?”

- “Sure! I’m sorry, I just…”- Spencer moved from the door and watched her taking off her shoes, leaving a few paper bags on the table, and smiling at him as soon as she removed her mask.

- “Can I wash my hands?”

- “Of course, the bathroom is…”- Reid stopped himself. She knew where the bathroom was. That wasn’t the first time she was there.

While she washed her hand, he made his best to clean a little, folded the blanket on his couch, and piled all the books that were lying around.

- “So… I hope I’m not interrupting anything…”- (Y/N) started apologizing again, but Spencer just shook his head.

- “No, not at all, I just wasn’t expecting you to come after… what…”- he couldn’t even mention it.

- “After what Rossi said?”- she turned around and avoided looking at Spencer. She walked to the bags she had brought and started taking things out

- “Should we worry he was getting drunk so early?”- she simply said, and Reid chuckled

- “I don’t know, maybe… what are you doing?”

- “Well… I’m not into chicken tandoori for Christmas, so I cooked some things.”

- “It smells delicious”- Reid smiled, and so did (Y/N), feeling her cheeks blushing.

- “It’s mom’s turkey recipe, so it better be good”

- “Let me put that in the fridge”- Reid held the turkey, roasted potatoes, and many other things (Y/N) had cooked and walked to the kitchen.

- “I also got you this”- (Y/N) giggled and followed Spencer. As soon as he left everything he was carrying, she put a Santa hat with red and white stripes on his head.

- “You look like the cat in the hat”- she joked, and Spencer laughed, feeling like the happiest nerd on earth.

- “I’m gonna take that as a compliment.”

- “It is…”- (Y/N) stared at him and sighed, both of them smiling in silence for a second.

- “Did you get one for yourself too?”- he finally asked.

- “Yes! so we can take dorky pictures and send them to Garcia, she is gonna love those”- she made a pause and bit her lips for a second.

- “So… do you like Christmas traditions?”- she asked and looked down at her shoes

- “Mmm, sure… like watching Home Alone drinking hot chocolate?- Spencer asked, thinking he hadn’t really lived many Christmas traditions growing up. However, he knew his mother had made her best to make him happy each holiday.

- “Yeah… that and… maybe this”

(Y/N) took a mistletoe from her pocket and lifted her arm to place it right on top of their heads.

Spencer didn’t move. He just wide opened his eyes, staring at (Y/N), who was now smiling, completely blushed.

- “Since we are spending Christmas together, I thought… we… could…”- but she couldn’t finish talking, ‘cos Spencer leaned in slowly, very slowly until he reached her lips and kissed her. His hands cupped her cheeks carefully, and her arms ended up wrapped around his neck.

- “Merry Christmas, Spencer”- she whispered, rubbing her lips against his when the kiss ended, but neither of them wanted to move apart.

- “Merry Christmas, (Y/N)”

#criminal minds #spencer reid #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fanfic #criminal minds fanfiction #david rossi #penelope garcia #derek morgan #emily prentiss #jenifer jareau #aaron hotchner #Matthew Gray Gubler #bau #merry christmas #babymetaldoll writes

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catrasredemption-moved · 3 years

Note

Can you do a fic where catra gives birth without adora by her side and panics please

I feel like I can't do justice compared to the others that exist, but sure!

-----------------------

Adora hadn't wanted to go.

Catra hadn't really wanted to let her go, either. She was coming up on her eighth month of pregnancy, and every single nerve screamed in imagined agony when she wasn't in Adora's arms. She hated it - she had gotten over clinging to Adora years ago. But everyone assured it was okay. She was pregnant. She was allowed to want Adora right by her side all the time.

But this was important. Two ally planets were threatening to go to war, and there was a risk of Etheria ending up in the middle of it. Which, unfortunately, made it very much their problem. Normally, Glimmer would have brought Catra (who was surprisingly good at being diplomatic and talking people down), but Adora had flat out said no to the idea of her very pregnant wife going anywhere near a warzone. Catra would have argued, but that was fair, really. She felt the same way.

So Glimmer had taken Adora and Bow, with the hopes that the three of them would manage to calm everyone down. Catra had resisted the urge to point out that they hadn't even know what a coherent plan was before she joined them.

It sucked, watching the three people she trusted most clear Etheria's atmosphere and disappear into the stars. But after ten years, Catra no longer felt completely alone in the castle. Netossa and Spinnerella had agreed to stay in Bright Moon while Glimmer was gone; they had declared themselves the baby's aunts the minute Catra announced she was pregnant. Entrapta, after nearly two year of work, had managed to replicate Prime's teleportation technology to create teleporting points in each kingdom, so Scorpia could visit her bestie whenever she wanted. Micah had decided the new baby was going to be his grandchild (with a pointed look at Glimmer, who had rolled her eyes and informed him they were adopting), and was happy to look in on Catra every single hour, if she'd let him. She did not let him.

And they were great. They were all great. Catra loved all of them. But Adora's absence was an aching hole in her chest. She wanted her wife. She wanted her when she woke up at three in the morning, back screaming in pain, and there was no one she could ask to give her a massage, or even just hold her until she managed to fall back to sleep. She wanted to see the adoration in Adora's expression every time the baby kicked. She wanted to hear Adora's excited babbling as she told literally anyone who would listen about how they had just finished decorating the nursery, and it was so cute. She wanted Adora.

She really wanted Adora now, as she whimpered into her pillow, tightly clutching her swollen belly. Melog nuzzled her cheek, meowing nervously.

"No, it's fine," she mumbled. "It's nothing. Fake contractions, remember?"

That got her a very unimpressed meow in return. The fake contractions were sporadic and mildly painful, but this? This was a steady pain, pressing down on her uterus, coming approximately every ten minutes, as Melog kept reminding her. She reached out, pushing their snout away.

"I'm still three and a half weeks from my due date. It's fine."

Lying down wasn't a viable option; there was no comfortable position. She pushed herself out of bed, shuffling unsteadily around the room to try and relieve the constant ache on her back. Melog helped support her when she had to stop and lean on the wall, breathing heavily.

It wasn't fine.

"Fuck," she breathed, sliding down the wall, tears burning in her eyes. This couldn't be happening now. No. No no no no. Adora wasn't here. She didn't even know where Adora was. Not within communication range - Catra had already tried to call her. Who knew when she would be back. Catra was alone.

Not alone, Melog reminded her, nudging her shoulder. There were people here who could help her. A healer from Mystacor had even transferred to Bright Moon to be on hand for any emergencies, and the eventual delivery.

"Okay," she whispered. Melog nodded and disappeared. And she was alone.

She was alone.

Adora wasn't there. Adora wouldn't make it back in time. Her entire support system had relied on her wife, because why wouldn't it? Adora would be there. Adora didn't break her promises. Adora would be there.

Another contraction seized her, closing up her already struggling lungs. Tears pricked at her eyes as she wheezed uselessly. She couldn't breathe. She couldn't breathe.

A hand rested on her shoulder. "Easy," Micah said, squeezing. "It's okay. You're okay. Can you breathe with me?"

He exaggerated his own breaths, giving Catra a guide to follow along. It took a few minutes, but finally she managed to take a shaky breath, curling in on herself. "Okay. Good. What's wrong?"

"I - I think I'm in labor," she admitted unwillingly. "And Adora isn't here, and she supposed to be here, she was so excited, I can't take this away from her, I can't - I'm the worst wife-"

Micah squeezed her shoulder again, cutting her off. "You can't control when this happens," he reminded her gently. "That doesn't make you a bad wife. Or mother for that matter." Was he a mind reader? "If Adora doesn't make it back in time, it's okay. I know she'll be disappointed, but she'll be here for everything else. And I know this is hard, but you have to relax a little. The stress isn't good for you or the baby. Take another breath for me. Please?"

Catra nodded, sucking in a breath and letting it out slowly. The bedroom door burst open, Netossa and Melog hurrying in. "Spinny is getting Ivy. Is it really time?"

"Think so," Micah said, taking Catra's hands and helping her stand. "Keep trying to call Darla. Hopefully we can get in touch as soon as they're back in communication range."

Melog brushed against Catra's leg, purring loudly. She scratched the back of their ears, smile turning to a grimace when the dull pain of contraction started to grip her again.

It was going to be okay.

-----------------------------------

"Adora?"

"Yeah?"

"Catra is never allowed to be pregnant again. That was the worst."

It turned out talking and being diplomatic was a lot harder than just punching things. It had taken nearly four days to negotiate a deal that made both planets happy and stopped a war. Adora was fairly certain defeating Horde Prime had been easier.

She and Glimmer were sprawled out on the floor, staring at the ceiling. Bow was slumped in the captain's seat, sleeping. Entrapta was working energetically at the console. She had gotten to spend the last week on Darla, since they all knew letting her try to talk to people was a nightmare. Adora wanted her energy.

"I'm so tired," Adora groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. Glimmer reached out to shove her shoulder.

"Aren't you the one about to have a newborn? You better rest up now, you'll never sleep again."

Adora laughed, ignoring the uncomfortable swoop in her stomach. She missed Catra. She hated that she'd had to leave. She just wanted to be back.

"Entering Etheria's atmosphere!" Entrapta called, as if reading Adora's mind. "ETA - oh."

The console was beeping. There was a call coming in. Entrapta tapped a few buttons, bringing up a large screen. It flickered to life, showing Netossa, who was looking at something off screen.

"Yes I'm sure I'm calling the right - oh!" She jumped when she saw the call had connected. "Hey, finally!"

"Is something wrong?" Glimmer asked, immediately sitting up. Adora shot up as well, suddenly shaking. Netossa chuckled nervously.

"Okay, don't freak out. But um... Catra had the baby."

"What?!" Adora's voice cracked. She practically sprinted across the flight deck, grabbing the screen. "Is she okay? Is the baby okay? How?!"

"Are you asking how the baby was born?"

Normally, Adora liked Netossa's humor. This was not normally. "Netossa!"

"Okay, sorry. She's okay, the baby is okay, they're both sleeping now. It got a little rough, and Catra might need a little more time to recover, but she's okay."

Adora felt lightheaded. She took a step back, sitting hard on the ground. Catra had the baby. The baby was born while she was gone.

"Um... ETA five minutes," Entrapta said, quickly hitting a few buttons on the console and speeding Darla up. Glimmer and Bow moved to sit on either side of Adora, hugging her tight.

"I missed it," she whispered, tears filling her eyes. She had one job, to be there when Catra gave birth, and she missed it. "She probably hates me."

"There is no way Catra hates you," Bow said confidently. "Trust me."

"She never stops talking about how much she loves you and how you're going to be a great mother," Glimmer added. "I share an office with her, I hear about it every single day. 'Adora stayed up all night painting the nursery, Adora's been practicing how to swaddle with some stuffed animals, she's trying to set a record swaddling time, Adora woke me up at three a.m. because she had her head on my stomach and was letting the baby kick her ear' - seriously, it never stopped. I tried to send her on maternity leave two months ago so she'd stop."

"But I-"

"I know, you missed it," Glimmer said, hugging Adora. "But Catra isn't going to be mad. She probably just wants you there now. It's going to be okay."

Adora scrubbed her eyes, sniffling. "Yeah. It'll be okay."

They landed, and Adora darted off the ship. Bow and Glimmer smartly decided they could visit later, and let her go.

Netossa and Spinerella were sitting outside of Adora's and Catra's room, playing a game on their tracker pad. They both gave Adora a grin when they saw her approaching.

"Hey Mom. How's it going?"

Adora slowed to a walk, hands shoved in her pockets to keep from fidgeting. "Is... Is Catra mad?"

"Is Catra ever not mad?"

Spinnerella elbowed Netossa. "She's a little upset, but mostly at herself. I think she'll be happier you're here, though."

"How long has it been?"

"About twelve hours."

Adora had barely missed it. She did her best to put on a brave smile. "Thanks for being here."

"Honestly, thank Micah. He's the only one besides Ivy who knew what was going on."

"And he didn't almost pass out," Spinnerella added, smiling wickedly at her wife. Netossa gave her an offended look.

"I did not almost pass out."

"You absolutely would have if I didn't drag you out."

Adora left the wives to their argument, carefully peeking into the room. Catra was sleeping, bundled up in a nest of pillows and blankets. Adora just barely got a look at her before she was being tackled. Melog nuzzled up to her, purring and licking her cheek. She laughed.

"Hi, Melog."

This was good, right? Melog always did this when Catra was feeling particularly needy but didn't want to say anything. Adora couldn't have been in too much trouble.

She stood, feeling a bit more emboldened, and toed off her boots before making her way across the room.

And she finally got her first look at her baby.

They were so small. A small mop of blonde hair barely hid twitching ears, little claws kneading mindlessly against Catra's chest. Their fur was a mix of Adora's skin and Catra's fur - a beautiful dark blonde that was absolutely the most amazing thing Adora had ever seen. She wanted to pick them up, to hold them, to feel their weight in her arms. But she also didn't want to disrupt this moment of pure tranquility.

Catra made a small noise, nose twitching, and one eye fluttered open. "Hey 'Dora," she mumbled sleepily. "Really left me t'do all the hard, huh?"

Adora pressed a hand to her lips to keep from laughing. "Mind if I join you?"

"Left enough room for you, didn't I?"

She had, Adora realized. A perfectly sized space right next to her for Adora to slide into. She tossed her jacket off and carefully slid in next to Catra. Her wife shifted slightly to snuggled into her chest.

"How're you feeling?"

"Tired. Your child is so difficult."

"Oh, my child?"

"Yup. Stubborn, just like you."

Adora finally reached out to brush a finger against one of their tiny paws. "Cute, though."

"Got that from me."

George and Lance, it turned out, had a surprisingly extensive knowledge about Magicats, and had been more than happy to educate Catra after they'd met her. One of the big things they'd learned was that Magicats didn't name their children before they were a year old (some superstition) and all babies used neutral pronouns until they were old enough to understand what gender was and could choose their own. Two more things Shadow Weaver had taken away from Catra. Two things she was determined to give their baby.

"Do you think I can..."

Catra rolled her eyes, yawning. "No, Adora, you can't hold your own child. Come on, seriously?"

"I just don't want to bother them!"

Adora was reaching out even as she said that, carefully scooping up the little bundle. They wiggled a bit, making a few distressed noises, but stopped when they were close enough to burrow into Adora's shirt. And if the baby hadn't owned Adora's heart before that moment, they certainly did now.

"I'm sorry," she whispered, to their baby and to Catra. "I'm sorry I wasn't here."

"M'sorry they were so impatient," Catra murmured, snuggling a bit closer to Adora now that she was free. S'okay, though. You're here now."

Yes, she was. And she'd be damned if she ever left this planet again. Why would she? Everything she needed was already here.

#Sam Writes #askbox fic #pregnancy cw #vague descriptions of labor #Catradora

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rosemary-writes · 3 years

Text

I can’t, I’m so sorry

(David x Female!Reader)

AN: this story is basically me just ranting about my experience over the past two weeks. It’s very hard going through the grief process and I wanted to share my experience through my writing. This story is kind of a self insert but I still like it

Warnings: swearing, mentions of death, losing a loved one, grief, mourning, crying, unhealthy habits, recollection of memories, soft!David, maybe out of character David, general sadness, mentions of a cemetery, vampire powers.

Word count: 3.8k

DO NOT READ IF YOU ARE SENSITIVE TO ANY OF THE ABOVE WARNINGS

“I like to pretend that you ran away, that you’re living on an island and have a garden and a dog and that your brothers drop by to bring you groceries and books and that you are very happy and free.” - S.C. Pacheco

It happened so quickly. No one saw it coming, but then again, does anyone ever really see death coming?

You were preparing for finals. It was the last two weeks of your first year at college and you had been studying non stop. You were going to end this year with a bang and have a great extended summer without worry in your head.

Then, the phone call happened. It was so unexpected. Dad called and asked if you were alone. Thankfully, your psychology class was on a five minute break and you were out in the hallway. Dad immediately said that he didn’t know how to break it to you gently so he was just going to say it. Following his statement, he told you how your great grandmother had a stroke and she had about a day to a month to live. The hallway stood still and the chatter of classrooms ceased into nothing.

Tears had welled up in your eyes and began to flow down your face. Nothing stopped them as your dad kept telling you about everything that happened. Your grandparents, uncles, aunts, and even your mom went to the hospital to see her. It was a two hour drive. Your dad had said that your mother was going to bring you home when all of your classes were done, for the day, so you could be in an area of comfort. The only reason he said that was because the history of your mental health wasn't the best at all. The previous two weeks were spent being in bed because the stress of school began to weigh heavily in your chest.

The weight in your chest had lessened over the past few days but the news of your great grandmother brought it back. Your face was red as the tears kept flowing from your eyes. Dad said he loved you before letting you hang up. Your whimpers and scattered breathing echoed in the hallway. Hot tears dripped from your chin and onto your sweater as you ran into the bathroom. Thankfully it was empty and you were able to let out your cries. The yellow lights flickered as you fell to your knees. She was your only great grandmother and she loved you greatly. Everyone told you that you were special because you were her eldest great granddaughter. The passing quote in your head practically made you scream out in confusion and upset.

Many minutes passed before your psychology teacher burst into the bathroom. She found you on the floor, face wet with tears. Immediately she came to your side and began shushing you while wrapping her arms around you. The only words you could cry out were “She’s dying and I’m not there.” After that, the day fuzzed into nothing. Your close friend had to come and get you for your other classes. She told your teachers how you were leaving early in the week because your great grandmother was dying. Thankfully, your teachers understood and gave you extensions on every assignment that was late.

Later in the evening, your mother came to get you. The car ride was very quiet and so was the weekend. It was spent with you occasionally crying while listening to your family plan her funeral. It was also spent with you remembering your childhood in her house.

The smells and sounds lingered in your mind constantly. Sometimes you’d hear the ghost of her grandfather clock when you couldn’t sleep.

Sadly, you couldn’t sleep most days. A week came and went and you were in the start of your finals week. It was three days filled with exams. Tuesday was the first day of exams. Thankfully, there was only one exam. When class was over, your teacher asked to speak with you. She gave you an enormous hug and told you that you passed her class. With tears forming in your eyes she told you that your great grandmother would be very proud. After that, she wished you the best in life and you went back to your dorm with your close friend.

As if on cue, your phone rang. When you picked it up you immediately could tell it was your dad. He told you that your great grandmother passed in her sleep early that morning. You knew this news was coming but no amount of preparation could prepare you to hear that. Tears fell from your eyes as he told you to get through the next few days before moving out and coming home. You both said, “I love you.” before hanging up.

Later that night, you cried until the sun gently arose over the tall evergreen trees. The next few days were spent in a daze. Your friends comforted you and told you that they’d always be there for you as you cried and wanted to go home. You took your exams and packed up your room and left the college. You were so happy to leave with your mother and go home for the summer. However, the shadow of grief clung to your skirt the entire time, even as the evening turned into night and then stretched into morning.

With sad eyes, you had looked into the mirror as you applied your makeup and got dressed for her funeral. The dress you wore was long sleeved and it just about touched the ground. You sighed. It was going to be a long drive through the flat farmland to get to the town of your childhood. When your family got to the old cemetery, your father told you that it was a beautiful day for her to be laid to rest.

And it was. It really was. The sun was shining, there were no clouds, and the gentle breeze turned your warm tears cold. Birds and butterflies fluttered around the graves and danced with each other. Even as the priest recited the carefully picked words, you thought of how it was a beautiful day. When he was done speaking, your mother held you as you cried. She let go when she began to cry uncontrollably. Your younger cousins came to your side and wept with you as you walked amongst your sleeping ancestors and extended family.

At the end of the funeral, you tearfully kissed her headstone goodbye and whispered to your great grandfather that you know they're happy now, laying side by side. When you got into the car to go back to Santa Carla, you cried until you dozed off under the warm afternoon sun.

Before you had left for the whole ordeal, you called David and told him about everything that had happened. He knew that your great grandmother had a stroke and that your whole family was stricken with grief. He also knew that you had never experienced grief or the process of mourning. So, he made a promise that when you came back he would stay by your side. You gave a huff into the payphone as he told you that he would do anything to ease the process. Before hanging up, you asked if it would be okay if you could stay at the cave for a couple of days. He told you yes and that he loved you before hanging up.

When your family finally got back to the house, you immediately fled to your room. Your parents didn’t want to bother you so they left you alone. They didn’t know that you were going to spend a few days at the cave. Infact, they didn’t know you were dating David. Your parents just thought he was a college friend.

Grabbing a bag, you began shoving clothes into it. You grabbed a few necessities and put those in there as well. When you figured you had everything, you heard David's bike outside. However, before you left, you noticed your great grandmother's ring on your dresser. It was given to you on your sixteenth birthday. It was an heirloom that was passed down from your great grandmother. When she first saw you wearing it, she had complimented how you reminded her of her younger self. While looking at the ring, your hand flew to the pearl choker that was resting around your neck. They were hers as well.

You grabbed the ring and slipped it on your ring finger before leaving. Your parents must’ve gone to bed because the house was dark and their bedroom door was shut. In the kitchen, you pulled out a notepad and wrote down that you were going to be with friends for a few days.

You left your house and noticed David was at the end of your driveway. He had a cigarette in his mouth and he was looking at your neighbors house.

“David.” you called gently. His head whipped towards you and a smirk appeared on his lips. His fingers came up and took the cigarette from his lips. When you walked to him, he gently pulled you close and gave you a quick kiss. When you pulled away, his hand came up to your cheek. You looked up at him in the moonlight and could see that his face was laced with concern as his eyes studied your face.

“Hop on kitten, let’s go to the cave.” he said, as his hand fell from your face. You got on behind him and when you wrapped your arms around him he began to drive through the night. Usually, you would be happy and laughing with David as he drove erratically to get you excited. He loved hearing you shout as he would go over hills but tonight was quiet. Of course he knew why. You were grieving and he wasn’t expecting you to do any of that. When you asked to stay at the cave, he was honestly surprised.

However, part of you felt like you needed to shout and laugh. You had mentally prepared for her death for a week and now it was hours after the funeral. Part of you begged to be left alone with your ever changing mind and the other part wanted to be with David in his arms as you two laughed and talked trash about the people of Santa Carla.

Instead, your face was resting against his back as he drove to the cave. The night was clear and the moon was bright. In the serenity of the night you closed your eyes. Your eyes were irritated at how much you had been crying and you hoped that tonight David wouldn’t see you cry. He had never seen you cry and you wanted to keep it that way. You always stayed happy and energetic around him. Sometimes you could hear David whisper that he loved your spark when he thought you were asleep. He didn’t know that your great grandmother repeated the same thing many years ago.

You sighed as you felt David’s bike slow to a stop. Opening your eyes, you saw that the both of you were at one of the entrances to the cave. He parked his bike next to the three others and turned it off. Carefully, you unwrapped your arms from him as he got off. As you got off, David offered his hand and you took it. When you stood next to him, hand in hand, he kissed your forehead. You smiled at the affection and he led you down into the cave.

“I know you won’t mind but, me and the guys are going to go feed when you get inside. I’ll change my clothes before coming back” David said, as he led you through the tunnel. You hummed and looked ahead at the gentle glowing light ahead. In the main area of the cave you could hear the noises of the other boys. David’s grip on your hand tightened as you came to the steep slope that led to the main area. The first time he brought you here, you slipped going down. You smiled at the cherished memory as you carefully walked down. Thankfully, this time you made it to the bottom.

“Hey David, hey Scoob” Marko said, looking up as you and David walked into the main area of the cave. You scoffed as David let go of your hand.

“How many times do I have to tell you to not call me that?” you asked, as David walked over towards the others. Marko gave you a teasing smile as Paul came from god knows where. Dwayne followed after him and the two joined the others.

“Anyways, I think you guys should get a move on. I can tell you’re antsy.” you said. David was breathing a bit more heavily than usual and you knew that was his body telling him to eat. Without word, the boys turned and walked away to one of the many exits. As the others ascended into the night, David turned to look at you. It was his way of saying goodbye but you also knew he was asking a question.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.” you said, grabbing your bag. Without speaking, he too turned away and followed the others.

You sighed as you watched him leave. It wasn’t your first time alone in the cave. Sometimes, they would go out and feed while you slept and you’d wake up in an empty nest. But, right now, you needed to be alone to just breathe. So, you went down one of the hallways to your little sanctuary. Months ago, you found a little safe haven in the depths of the cave. It was your little room and it was filled with things you found and liked. As you walked down the dim path, you could see the curtains in the doorway. Carefully, when you stood in front of them, you pushed them aside and stepped into the little safe haven. It was dark, but thankfully you had candles in different places around the room. Setting your stuff down on the bed, you grabbed your lighter from your dress pocket. You carefully lit the candles and adjusted them to keep from scorching other objects.

When you were finished you plopped down onto the mattress that was covered in blankets and pillows. You didn’t know how long it had been since you last slept. The nights were spent with you crying until you couldn’t but by morning, you were ready to repeat the whole cycle.

It sucked. Grief wasn’t supposed to be like this. Many people told you that after a few days, everything would go back to normal. Well, you wanted the feeling to go away immediately. You hated this neverending feeling of sadness. It was like a child clinging to their mother’s skirt.

One of the worst parts of it all was the day going through your head. You couldn’t stop thinking about her funeral. Was this normal? To constantly think of the funeral? Was it also normal to cry so much? You just couldn’t understand the whole grief process at all.

Gently, you got up from the mattress and walked over to the old mirror that David found for you. The candles in the room gave your features a warm glow in the mirror. You looked at your face and how it changed. You looked different. The shadows under your eyes had darkened and your eyes looked irritated. Glancing down to the pearl choker, you felt your throat tighten. The words of the past week began to echo loudly in your head.

She wouldn’t want you to fuss over her.

Even the brightest stars have to dim.

She loved you. She loved you greatly.

Then the tears came. They came so fast that you were honestly scared by them. They fell down your face as a sob escaped your mouth.

It wasn’t fair. None of it was. The pain in your body felt amplified as you sank to the floor. The worst part of it all was you couldn’t stop thinking of her. The way she kissed your cheeks when she saw you and when you left. The way her hands gently ran through your hair as you slept in her lap as a child. How she would sneakily give you chocolates after Christmas dinner and not tell anyone. Her mischievous smile flashed in your mind and it only made you cry harder. Why, why, why? Why did she have to die?

______

From the entrance of the cave, David stood still. Your sadness had reverberated through the cave like a loud radio. He couldn’t hear you but he felt the grief. Slowly, he walked to your room. He had forgotten how grief felt. It was a horrible feeling that he never wanted to experience again. However, he wanted to comfort you the best he could. As he got closer to your room, he could hear you. He heard the rapid beating of your heart as you let your emotions out. When he stood in front of the curtain, he hesitated. Would you want him in there?

David brushed the thought aside as he remembered that it was your first time with grief. He could practically smell the confusion and anger from your tears. Quickly, he opened the curtains and stepped into your room. On the farthest side of the room, you were leaning against the wall as you were trying to catch your breath. Your face was red and wet with tears. The eyeliner you wore was smudged around your eyes and David could see where it had trailed.

When you had calmed down just a little, David cleared his throat. Immediately, you turned around and met his still face. He held no emotion as he looked at your tragic form.

“Get out.” you said, quickly wiping your face. David did not move from his spot. Instead, he walked towards you.

“David, get out! I don’t want you to see me like this!” You yelled, as you turned away to shield yourself from him. He said nothing as he came behind you and wrapped his arms around you. It was so gentle that it almost didn’t seem like David. Again, you tried to say something else but it died on your lips. Instead a whimper came out as you fell to the floor and David gently fell with you. He kept your back pressed against his chest as you kept crying.

“I-I’m sorry.” you mumbled through your tears. David’s face nuzzled your neck as you wept uncontrollably.

“It’s okay. I’m right here.” he quietly said against your skin as you kept trying to steady your breathing. After a few minutes, you had calmed down enough but tears still kept falling down your face.

David listened as your heartbeat kept getting calmer by the minute. It was a soothing sound to him.

“Are you okay?” he asked, looking at your face. You scoffed, “No, but I’ll live.” you mumbled quietly. David hummed at your response.

“David, I hate this.” you stated with a sniffle. He perked up at your words and listened carefully.

“I hate everything about grief, I hate the confusion, I hate the sleepless nights, I hate the crying and I-” you cut off the sentence as you tried to not go into another crying fit. Taking in a shaky breath, you continued, “And I hate that I don’t know what to do. This whole process fucking sucks.”

David sighed and kissed your cheek. “You’re still in the early stages of grief. It’s confusing and it’s scary to go through. Especially by yourself.” he explained calmly, “One of the best things you can do is try to think of all of the good things that happened in her life. I detest seeing you this way, but I know it’s something you have to go through.” he finished.

You sighed and wiped your face, “But, why does it have to hurt so damn bad?” you asked, turning to try and look at his face. David moved back so he could look you in the eye.

“It hurts because you lost someone you loved. Your mind can’t understand how life will be different without her. Eventually, you’ll understand how to live life like before and carry on again.” he replied, calmly.

His eyes fell to the pearl choker around your neck and his hands moved to take it off. You didn’t object to the feeling of his cold hands as they fumbled with the clasp. Carefully, he took it off and moved to set it somewhere else. “Lets move to the mattress, hm?” David suggested. You nodded and the two of you got up and went to lay down together on the mattress. Instead of laying next to you, David was sitting next to you.

You closed your eyes when your back hit the soft blankets. It was comforting but you didn’t want to sleep even though your body was begging for it. You were just scared of what you would dream of.

“Would you like me to take off your ring?” David asked, holding your hand up to his face. You quirked your eyebrow at him. “Why would I need to take off her ring?” you asked sitting up. David rolled his eyes, “You don’t want it to fall off while you sleep. It might get lost.” he said, meeting your gaze.

“Uh, it won’t get lost while I sleep because I’m not going to sleep.” you replied, moving your hand away from his.

David scoffed at your words, “Kitten, this isn’t up for debate. I know you haven’t slept in days and it’s not healthy for you.” he argued, moving his hands to your face.

“David, I don’t need you to tell me what to do.” You declared. He looked down at you. His eyes were serious and you could tell that he was getting annoyed with this conversation.

“You are going to sleep and I don’t care if you refuse. I’m going to do this anyways” he said, finally. Before you could answer, you slipped into a deep sleep. Your body fell back onto the mattress and David was satisfied. He didn’t like using his vampire powers on you but, he felt like this was necessary. He looked down at your hand and carefully pulled the ring off. David got up from the mattress and set the ring down next to the pearl choker. He looked down at your sleeping form and smirked before laying down next to you. Tonight, all would be well for a while.

#marko the lost boys #dwayne the lost boys #david the lost boys #paul the lost boys #the lost boys x reader #the lost boys imagines #the lost boys 1987 #David the lost boys x reader #david lost boys #rosemary writes

109 notes · View notes

hazel-light · 3 years

Text

Chapter Word Count: ~7,400

Total Fic Word Count: ~30,000

Genre: (Wedding) Fake Dating, Friends to Lovers, lots of bed sharing and every self indulgent fluffy trope possible.

Warnings: None? Lots of fluff? Occasional cussing? Some suggestive themes, moments, and jokes I guess. No smut or anything!

Disclaimer: I am not Daniel Sharman, and I do not pretend to know how he would act, speak, etc. This is fiction okay, there’s a lot of creative license, and potential to be OOC. Ricky isn’t mentioned because I started writing this before we knew he existed, so apologies for that. Also, if you’re DShar himself, please do us both a favor and don’t read this, okay???? Same if you know him 🙈

Title taken from the song Yellow Lights by Harry Hudson which suits this story quite a bit!

A/N: You thought I'd skip all the possibilities and tropes that come with the holidays?! Of course not. This is the final part to Yellow Lights. Thank you all for making my return to writing and posting so wonderful. I am so, so, grateful. I hope the ending lives up to your expectations. <3

The next month and a half passes by uneventfully. I try not to spend all of my time thinking about how great Rachel's wedding was, and equally try to ignore the wistful feeling Henry’s wedding left me with. Having Daniel be my fake boyfriend in front of my family showed me everything that I’d ever wanted; someone who fit in seamlessly, who loved me for me, with the perfect balance of romance and friendship. Whatever crush I had successfully buried when Daniel and I first met is now achingly hard to avoid. I curse my active imagination and optimism for letting me indulge in the moments of pretend, leaning too comfortably into our façade.

As a result, I don’t talk to Daniel much. He is busy finishing filming his project in London, and I try to focus on my life in LA. I’ve become paranoid that every text I send him is one too many, too annoying, or too bothersome. I figure I can reassess things when Daniel comes home from filming, and try to find my footing in our friendship again.

This seems like a solid plan until I’m on Zoom with my family for Thanksgiving. Since I’ve already flown back once this year for the wedding, and I’m planning to fly back again next month for Christmas, staying put for Thanksgiving was the economical choice. The call is mostly uneventful until the subject of Daniel comes up.

“Where’s that boy?” Aunt Judith crows from her spot at the dining table.

“Hmm?” I ask.

“She means Daniel.” Ryan rolls his eyes, bringing the iPad closer to her.

“Oh! Right.” I try to recover. “He’s still away filming his new project, actually, but I was able to fly out to see him at the end of September for another wedding, actually.”

Aunt Judith frowns. “That’s a long time to not see someone that handsome—” I start to laugh, “Are you sure he’s not cheating on you?”

Oh shit. It’s in this moment that I realize Daniel and I had never “broken up” as far as my family knows. I hear the rest of my family start sputtering in the background.

“Aunt Judith— you can’t just—”

“That’s awful, I—”

“It is kind of a long time, huh?—”

I try to keep a straight face. “Guys! It’s okay. He’s an actor, it comes with the territory. I expected this.”

“So you aren’t sure that he’s not cheating on you?” Ryan frowns.

“That isn’t what I meant, Ry. Daniel and I are fine. We’re really good, actually.”

“Well I certainly hope you’ll be bringing him home for Christmas then.” Aunt Judith huffs.

“It would be nice to see him,” Rachel speaks up for the first time, and her husband Nick nods. “I didn’t get to talk to him a whole lot at the wedding.”

I clear my throat, my mind racing. “You know, we haven’t actually talked about what we’re doing for Christmas yet; I’ll have to see what he’s doing— if he’s going to spend it with his family.”

“But you’re still coming home,” Ryan states.

“Yes, I am still coming home, no matter what.”

Ryan and Rachel’s mom, my auntie Kim speaks up. “I think it’s pretty common for a boyfriend to defer to his girlfriend’s family for the holidays. I mean, Ryan splits the day with Katharine of course, but Nick always came here with Rachel.”

“I hear you, Auntie Kim, but Daniel never gets to see his family so I’m not sure— all I’m saying is I’m not sure. He may very well come, and I will let you all know as soon as I know.” I smile tersely.

“Well hurry up, and find out,” Auntie Kim chastises. “Christmas is only a month away.”

When I hang up with them, it’s 7pm and I’m feeling antsy. How could I have forgotten that my entire family still thought Daniel and I were together? I’m not sure how to get out of this one. Tired of panicking alone in my head, I pick up my phone and dial Daniel before I can talk myself out of it. It rings and rings, and my anxiety that he won’t answer grows with each tone.

Eventually I hear rustling on the other line.

“Lauren?” Daniel’s voice crackles through the phone.

“Hi.”

“Are you alright?”

“What? Uh— yeah, I just needed to talk to you about something—” I glance at the time on my phone. “Oh god, no. What time is it there? I’m so sorry— I didn’t even stop to think about the time difference, I—”

I hear him suppress a yawn. “Lauren. It must be pretty important if you’re calling me AND rambling like this.”

“No, no, it can wait, I’m sorry— uh, go back to bed. I’m sorry I woke you up.”

“Lauren,” he stops me softly and firmly. “Stop apologizing. What’s going on?”

I sit quietly, feeling like an absolute idiot.

“Lauren, come on. You can tell me.”

“I— we… we never broke up?”

He laughs. “Sorry, what?”

“We never broke up.”

“Am I still asleep, is this a dream?”

“My family still thinks we’re together and they asked me if you’re coming home for Christmas.”

We’re both quiet for a moment.

“Oh.” is all he says.

“I talked to them for Thanksgiving, and they were asking about you. I realized too late that they thought we were still together— because I never told them we broke up. I didn’t think it through this far.”

“Right, I didn’t either.”

My phone starts ringing, telling me Daniel’s trying to FaceTime me.

I accept, and I’m faced with a dark screen.

“Why are we FaceTiming?”

I hear a lamp click on and suddenly Daniel’s face is illuminated as he lays in bed, lines from his pillow still on his face.

“Figured we should at least be able to see each other if you’re going to break up with me in the middle of the night,” he teases.

I shake my head. “Not funny, this is serious, D.”

“I know, I know.”

“If I break up with you, they’re going to yell at me and tell me I’m a stupid idiot.”

Daniel laughs.

“And if you break up with me they’re going to hate you, which means they’ll hate that we managed to ‘stay friends.’ And if it’s mutual…..” I shake my head, thinking. “They’ll think we were lying.”

“Which we were.”

I sigh, “Which we were.”

“So,” Daniel pulls his blanket up higher. “What are our options here?”

“I don’t know, that’s why I called you.”

I watch him stare off into space and reminisce about when I got to see this sleepy Daniel firsthand in Cape Cod.

“I could come for Christmas…” he trails off and I frown.

“That seems like asking a lot. You’ve already given up a lot of your free time this year for me.”

He shrugs into his pillow. “Do you not want me to come for Christmas?”

I pause. “I mean, that isn’t really the issue here. You have to be tired of being in love with me by now.”

He laughs loudly — a stark contrast to the quiet of his room. “Yes, being in love with you is very exhausting.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.”

“I’m kidding. Being in love with you is not exhausting. At all.”

I roll my eyes and say nothing. “I don’t think I can bear to break your family’s hearts at Christmas of all times.”

“Man of the year.” I drawl. “What are you supposed to be doing for Christmas? Going home?”

“No, usually I travel somewhere, but I hadn't decided yet.”

I hum in response.

“Kind of leaning towards traveling to Massachusetts now, if I’m honest.”

I look at him incredulously, only to see a playful grin on his face, but I know he’s serious.

“I’m not going to stop you if you really want to come. But I—” I swallow. “Eventually we’re going to need to plan for whatever happens after Christmas.”

He nods. “I know, we will. Let’s just enjoy Christmas together, first.”

I smile. “Okay. We can enjoy it. Together.”

He clears his throat. “I hope I’m not too rusty at this boyfriend performance, it’s been a few months.”

“Daniel Sharman has performance issues… I hope that doesn’t get out to the press.”

His eyes flash. “Bold, for you.”

I shrug. “You walked into that one, baby.”

“Well, you’re lucky you’re cute, darling.”

We look at each other for a moment, and I hope my eyes don’t give away how fond I am for this man who is willing to commit to fake-loving me, and putting up with my family, and who is setting the bar way too high for any actual real relationship I could hope for.

So much for reburying my feelings.

I break eye contact first. “I’ll let you get back to sleep. Sorry again for waking you up.”

“Do Not Disturb doesn’t apply to you, Lauren. Call any time.”

I smile softly. “Sweet dreams, I’ll text you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight.”

—-

I’m standing in the Boston Logan airport waiting for international arrivals; specifically Daniel’s flight from London. According to the board, his flight landed 15 minutes ago, so he should be coming to the lobby any time now. I bounce on my feet, simultaneously eager and nervous to see Daniel for the first time since parting ways after Henry and Claire’s wedding.

Eventually I see the hat and sunglasses I recognize from a selfie he sent me earlier, and I can feel my heart race. I begin walking towards him, and feel my pace quicken as I get closer. Eventually he sees me too and he’s grinning at me with his signature toothy smile that I missed so much.

When we come into contact I don’t know what the appropriate response is, so I simply grin up at him.

“Hi,” I breathe.

“Hi,” he smiles back, and before I know it he’s closer than he was before and he’s ducking down to kiss me.

It surprises me but I respond quickly, leaning up to meet him.

When it’s over he pulls back just enough to nuzzle his nose with mine.

“Missed you,” he says softly.

“Missed you most.” I smile.

He stands up straight, adjusting his backpack on his shoulder, threading his other hand through mine.

I can’t see his eyes, but I assume he must be looking around when he speaks.

“Oh, are you by yourself?”

The question catches me off guard.

“Yeah— well, Ryan’s in the car, circling so he wouldn’t have to pay for parking,” I roll my eyes.

He nods, “Sorry, then—“ he makes an inconclusive gesture. “Suppose I didn’t need to kiss you quite yet.”

My stomach drops and I smile tightly, “That’s okay— better safe than sorry. I get it.”

He tugs on my hand pulling me into a hug.

“I did miss you, though.”

“And I still missed you most.” I tease.

Daniel shakes his head, but doesn’t argue, pulling back from me and reaching for his suitcase with his freehand.

“Let’s get this show on the road.”

—-

I bring Daniel upstairs to show him around, and so he can put his suitcase in my room.

“Welcome to my childhood bedroom,” I announce, opening the door and leading Daniel inside.

“Wow, where little Lauren grew up,” Daniel teases looking around. When I first arrived home yesterday, I was quick to tidy up, and hide anything that was too embarrassing, but my room is more or less the exact same as I had left it when I was 18 and moving to college.

I nod. “Yes, many secrets to my backstory can be discovered in here.”

Daniel laughs.

Ryan appears in my doorway leaning against the doorframe.

“Just so you know, Daniel, my bedroom is on the other side of this wall,” he nods to his right. “I can hear everything that happens in here. The walls are thin.”

I frown, blushing, “Ew, Ryan.”

Daniel just laughs and smirks, “Got it, bro.”

I look at him incredulously, “Don’t encourage him.”

The two share a look and shrug, seemingly equally enjoying my discomfort.

“Dinner’s ready!” Auntie Kim calls up to us.

I use that as my cue, brushing past both of them to go downstairs, leaving their laughter behind me.

—-

After Christmas Eve dinner, Katharine stops by and the four of us decide to watch the classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I’m the last to arrive in the living room, and when I enter I immediately notice that Ryan is cuddled up with Katharine, and sprawled out over the entire couch, leaving Daniel sitting in the only other seat— the armchair.

I narrow my eyes at them, “Are you guys for real?”

Ryan looks at us and hums innocently, “What?”

“You took the entire couch.”

I see Katharine bite her lip in amusement, as Ryan shrugs.

“I assumed you guys would cuddle anyway. Can you not share the armchair?”

Daniel intervenes, “Of course we can. C’mon Laur.”

He pats his lap. I hesitate briefly before nestling into his lap, tucking my head into his neck.

“Am I crushing you?” I whisper.

“Not at all, you’re keeping me warm.”

I huff a laugh as he puts the blanket over us and Ryan starts the movie. The steady rise and fall of his chest brings me a sense of peace and I have to try not to fall asleep, especially when his fingers gently caress my arm and my leg where he’s holding me to him. I exhale, turning further into his neck and nuzzling into him.

“Tickles,” he breathes, just shy of a whisper.

“You smell good,” I tell him, letting my eyes close.

His chuckle reverberates through his body. “Thanks, darling.”

I feel my eyes shut and sleep take over. I start to come to when I hear the ending song come on, and it drifts into whatever dream I’m having.

“She asleep?” I hear Ryan ask.

“Think so,” Daniel answers.

“You need help waking her up?”

“No, I’ve got it, thanks though. Nice seeing you, Katharine.”

I hear footsteps retreat and feel a series of kisses pressed to my shoulder, as Daniel’s long fingers brush hair away from my face.

“Time to wake up, pretty girl. You can go back to sleep once we’re in your bed.”

I shake my head no, clinging to him tighter.

“Like this bed.” I murmur drowsily.

He laughs softly. “Promise we can cuddle there too.”

“Promise?” I ask, peeking one eye open.

“I promise,” he confirms, pressing one more kiss to my shoulder.

I lift my head to look at him, rubbing my eyes.

“There she is,” he smiles gently at me.

I smile back sleepily, the words coming out before I fully think them through.

“Wanna know a secret?”

“Tell me.”

I swallow, letting my gaze flicker down to his mouth for just a moment. “I like cuddling with you.”

“You do, huh?”

I nod.

“Well the feeling’s mutual. Let’s go upstairs and brush our teeth so we can cuddle more in your bed.”

“Okay,” I relent, getting off of him. He stands up after me and I instinctively lace my fingers with his, leading us back upstairs. When we’re brushed and changed, we settle ourselves in bed and I claim my spot tucked into his neck again.

“Sweet dreams,” he says, kissing the top of my head. I echo the sentiment and gently kiss the spot on his neck I’m closest to. His arms tighten around me and I’m falling asleep again.

—-

For once, I wake up before Daniel. He looks peaceful as he sleeps on his stomach, his arm across my waist, face half smushed into the pillow. I turn my head to look at the clock to see it’s about 9:30 and know the others will be waking up soon. I turn back to Daniel and card my fingers gently through his hair. Eventually his breathing changes and his eyes flutter open, still clouded with sleep.

“Merry Christmas,” I whisper, our faces just inches apart.

He pulls himself closer to me, nuzzling into my side and closing his eyes again. “Merry Christmas.”

It’s quiet for a moment before he speaks again, voice raspy with sleep. “Is everyone else awake?”

“No, I don’t think so. I haven’t heard anyone up and around… they might be soon. Usually we kind of wander downstairs around 10, and it’s just past 9:30.”

He hums in response.

“You can go back to sleep for a little while if you want,” I offer, still running my fingers through his hair. “I’ll wake you when it’s time to go downstairs.”

I start to think he’s drifted off to sleep again when he opens his eyes and looks at me. “No, I can get up. I want to give you your present.”

I narrow my eyes at him. “I told you not to get me anything; you coming here like this with me— twice— is more than enough.”

He rolls his eyes, detaching himself from me and rolling out of bed. “And look like the asshole who didn’t get his girlfriend anything for Christmas? Not a chance.”

I sit up. “We could’ve lied about it—”

“Lauren,” Daniel looks back at me exasperatedly, leaning over his suitcase. “It’s Christmas. Please just open your present.”

He pulls out a neatly wrapped, thin rectangle and places it in my lap, sitting next to me on the bed.

“Merry Christmas, Laur.”

I carefully unwrap the package to reveal a framed art print, with a circle of stars in the middle; underneath it says “The Night Everything Changed” with the coordinates of what I assume to be Los Angeles. I look up to him with soft eyes, and he gives a one shouldered shrug.

“Saw an ad for this online— where you can get the night sky documented of any night you want, anywhere you want. I thought it would be nice to commemorate this past year, for us…” he trails off, and I hug the frame to my chest.

“Daniel, I love it— Really, really love it. It’s so thoughtful.” I reach out and thread our fingers together. “I’m going to hang this in my room. I want it somewhere I see every day.”

He smiles and squeezes my hand. “I’m glad you like it. I actually wanted to talk to you about something— in relation to this. I—”

We’re interrupted by a light knocking on the door, and we both turn.

“Are you guys awake?” Ryan’s voice calls.

“Yeah, we’ll be out in a sec!” I answer.

I turn back to Daniel who squeezes my hand and moves to get up, but I pull him back.

“They can wait; this is special. I want to hear what you have to say.” I smile at him warmly, but he shakes his head, lifting the back of my hand to kiss it.

“It’s alright, I’d rather wait and tell you when we have more time to talk.”

I frown. “Promise me you won’t forget?”

He laughs. “Trust me, I won’t forget.”

He moves to stand, pulling me up with him to go downstairs, but I stop him, wrapping my arms around him tightly.

“Thank you, D. It means a lot to me.”

He returns my embrace, placing a kiss to the top of my head.

When we pull apart, I take his hand again. “Time for Christmas. Your present is under the tree, by the way.”

Daniel laughs. “A present double-standard.”

I shake my head and lead him out of the room.

—-

I think we’re done with presents when Ryan surprises me, coming over to Daniel and I on the loveseat.

“This is for both of you, kind of.” He hands me a thin, narrow gift.

Daniel looks up, surprised. “Thanks, man. That was thoughtful of you.”

He looks at me, silently asking, did you know about this?, and I shake my head no.

I unwrap the package to find a small frame, with a one hundred dollar bill matted in the middle. I look at Ryan and furrow my eyebrows.

“It's the hundred bucks I said I’d give you if you brought a real date to Rachel’s wedding. Seeing as the same guy is here for Christmas I figured you earned it. Thought I’d frame it— but you can take it out and spend it on a date or something, I don’t care.”

Auntie Kim squints. “Sorry, you told her what?”

I roll my eyes and try to avoid the way my stomach sinks at the reminder of how this all started.

I feel Daniel’s hand on my knee. “Clever, Ryan.”

I look over at him to see him flashing his polite interview smile, and I instantly know he knows exactly what I’m feeling.

Auntie Kim stands and stretches. “I don’t get it, but I’m going to go start breakfast. Your sister and Nick are picking up Judith soon and then they’re coming over. Katharine isn’t coming until dinner, right, Ryan?”

As Ryan confirms, she walks out of the room. Ryan turns back to us. “Mind if I shower first?”

I shake my head no, still lost in my thoughts, and I hear Daniel tell him to go ahead.

We’re left alone and I feel Daniel’s thumb brushing my knee.

“Thank you for my presents.”

“You’re welcome— I’m glad you like them; they don’t beat your present for me though.”

He rolls his eyes and we sit for a moment, the framed hundred dollar bill still in my hands.

“Penny for your thoughts?”

I look at him and shake my head. “I don’t know. Just an odd reminder of how this started, and that it’s going to have to end soon, I guess.”

Daniel frowns. “We haven’t really gotten to talk about that. Why don’t we table that for later— we still have a nice day ahead of us. Those are problems for tomorrow.”

I nod and smile at him, and he pulls me in to kiss my temple, and I hear the click of an iPhone camera. I look up to see Auntie Kim in the doorway.

“Sorry, I just wanted to tell you that the coffee’s on. It was too cute not to capture.”

Daniel stands up, offering me his hand. “Make sure you send me a copy. I’ll have to add it to my collection.”

I chuckle as I stand. “Let me guess; the album is called ‘Cute and Shit.’”

He grins. “How’d you know?”

—-

Christmas flies by. It’s filled with good food, wine, and everyone I love. It’s hours after dinner, and Auntie Kim has already driven Aunt Judith home before going to bed herself.

Ryan, Katharine, Daniel, and I are all still seated around the dining room table playing some kind of team card game, and everyone’s faces are red from laughter and wine.

I can’t help but watch Daniel, who is in some kind of hilarious argument with Ryan over some card he pulled. His eyes shine from the light of the chandelier, and his smile is big and bright, taking over his whole face.

It hits me in this moment that I’ve surpassed unlabeled romantic feelings; I am truly in love with this man. The realization consumes me until Katharine knocks her shoulder into mine giggling.

“Can you believe we love these idiots?”

“Sometimes it’s a hard pill to swallow,” I tease, giggling, catching Daniel’s eye mid-argument. He winks at me and I feel my already red cheeks flush even deeper.

“You two are so cute,” Katharine continues, watching our interaction. She lowers her voice, whispering to me behind her wine glass. “I was kind of worried that when you got a boyfriend he wouldn’t mesh well with our dynamic, ya know? But it kind of feels like Daniel’s always been here.”

Her words vocalize the thoughts that have been ringing in my head all day. “I know what you mean.”

Katharine dramatically clears her throat. “Are you two done? Is it our turn yet?”

—-

We part ways from Ryan and Katharine in the hallway, giggling and shushing each other in the wee hours of the morning. I shut my door behind me and waggle my eyebrows at Daniel.

“Uh oh, there’s trouble,” he teases. “Planning to seduce me?”

I shrug exaggeratedly and he laughs before looking around. “Fuck, where are my sweatpants?”

I giggle. “They’re literally right behind you on the chair.”

“Oh, thanks.” He grabs them before looking at me. “Can I change in here tonight?”

I flush. “Yeah, sure.”

After sharing a room together all this time, this is the first time we’ve changed in front of each other and the thought makes my skin tingle. I make my way over to my dresser, pulling out my own sleep shorts and t-shirt. I wiggle out of my pants and pull on my shorts, glancing over my shoulder to see Daniel, shirtless, adjusting his sweatpants on his hips. My throat runs dry, and I turn around to pull my own shirt over my head, reaching behind me to unclip my bra once it’s on. I bundle my discarded clothes in my hand, walking over to toss them in the hamper. I turn around to find Daniel already looking at me. He’s still shirtless and my eyes drift to his defined chest. He looks down as if noticing for the first time.

“It’s really, uh, hot in here.” He speaks again. “Would it bother you if I slept shirtless?”

I shake my head, mentally screaming. “No, it is warm,” I agree, reaching up to put my hair in a bun on top of my head.

He watches me intently, and I laugh self consciously. “What?”

“Nothing. Just thinking about how this was the best Christmas I’ve had in a while.”

My face lights up. “Really?”

“Yeah.” I see his grin quirk up, and know something else is coming. “I’d say it was almost perfect.”

“Oh?” I question, finishing my bun. “Go on.”

“We fit in a lot of classic traditions today, but we missed one that I’m quite fond of.”

I look at him, trying to think of what it could be, as he takes a step closer to me.

“There wasn’t any mistletoe.”

I swallow. “There wasn’t.” I pause, my mind racing. Before I can fully think it through I find myself offering, “But we could pretend?”

“Hmm?” He murmurs, taking a step closer to me so he’s right in front of me now. I know he’s giving me a chance to take it back, or make a joke; I’m nervous, but I don’t want to take it back. I just really want to kiss him.

“I’d really like it if you had a perfect Christmas.”

“And you?” He questions softly. “What would make it a perfect Christmas for you?”

Instead of answering him, I reach up on my tiptoes to kiss him for a moment, pulling back to look him in the eyes. His eyes meet mine in some unspoken understanding, and then he’s dipping down to kiss me again.

He kisses me softly, delicately, like all the kisses at the wedding. He pulls back briefly to look at me, as if he still expects me to change my mind. I kiss him again, wanting there to be no doubt in his mind, and he kisses me back with purpose and passion, and I’m caught off guard by the weight of it. I gasp, and Daniel uses this opportunity to deepen the kiss, pulling me closer. It reminds me of our very first kiss back on his couch. My arms move around his neck, pulling our bodies flush together.

Daniel pulls away first, but barely, breathing hard, kissing down from my jaw to my neck.

This is definitely new territory for us.

I move my hands to his hair, and he groans at the feeling. I can’t help myself as I sigh breathlessly, a shiver running down my back. He grins against my neck, his teeth scraping at my skin and I moan softly.

“Wait,” I say breathlessly, a thought somehow flitting through my mind. “Earlier, didn’t you say there was something else I should know about my present?”

“I can tell you tomorrow,” he murmurs into my neck between kisses. “It’s time for bed.” He tugs me down onto the bed so I’m underneath him, resuming his kisses on my neck.

“This doesn't seem like going to sleep to me,” I tease.

“It is, shhhh, you’re dreaming.”

“That I’d believe,” I laugh, and Daniel smirks, moving so we're eye to eye again.

“Dream about me often?”

“Shhh.” I pull him closer, turning his words back on him. “You’re dreaming, go back to bed.”

“Happily,” he murmurs, kissing me again.

I bring my hands down to his bare shoulders, feeling his warm, toned skin against my fingertips. I gently drag my nails down his chest to his stomach, and I feel his muscles clench at my touch. I can’t help but smirk to myself as he pulls away to rest his forehead on my shoulder, letting out a shuddering breath. I bring my nails around his back, tracing up his taut muscles and across his shoulder blades.

I feel one of his hands come down, pushing my shirt up, his mouth pressing hot kisses to my abdomen. His nose takes over pushing my shirt up, exploring every new inch revealed with his mouth, his hand now running over my thigh, fingers squeezing occasionally, slowly climbing higher. As his hand reaches the bottom of my shorts, he lightly tugs at the fabric. He pauses, his blue eyes tentatively peering up at me.

“Can I…?” He looks nervous, like I’ll reject him. As if I have ever rejected him, or could ever manage to deny him. I’m not even entirely sure what he’s asking but I find myself nodding quickly. As he goes to tug my shorts down we hear a bang on the wall we share with Ryan followed by a crash, a “Shhhh” and a “Shit.”

We both startle and look over toward the wall, before looking back at each other and laughing softly.

“Ugh, I don’t want to know,” I say, shaking my head.

“You probably, definitely don’t.” He smiles at me before pulling his hand off my shorts, and my shirt back down, letting his fingers trace along the waistband of my shorts before he clears his throat. “We should, uh, get some sleep.”

I blink at the abrupt change in mood before nodding awkwardly. “Okay, sure.”

He rolls off of me, and I reach over to shut the lamp off. I’m hesitant to cuddle up to him, unsure if what just happened changed something between us, but I’m relieved when I feel his arm wrap around me the way it always does. Neither of us say anything, and I try not to think about the last few minutes, the firmness of his body behind mine, or the way my body’s buzzing— closing my eyes to try and get some rest.

—-

The next two days with my family go pretty much the same way as Christmas did. Daniel gets on swimmingly with everyone, and my heart aches every time I realize that once the holidays are over, our charade is going to come to an end—a permanent end— this time. I try to ignore that thought and enjoy my time, basking in the coupley moments in front of my family, and leaning into every touch we share.

I never get a chance to ask about my Christmas present; the time never feels right, and Daniel doesn’t bring it up either. Nothing happens between us like Christmas night; when bedtime rolls around we change in the bathroom and go straight to bed. We cuddle, but there’s no after-dark kisses or wandering hands. I wonder if Daniel feels as self-conscious about that night as I do; if he does, he doesn’t show it.

—-

We’re in my room packing to go back to LA in an effort to try to beat the inevitable New Year’s rush at the airport.

“I need to find something to wrap this in so it doesn’t break in my luggage,” I frown, holding up Daniel’s present. “It’s my new prized possession— nothing can happen to it.”

Daniel looks over and laughs. “Want me to wrap it in my sweatpants? That's what I did on the way here.”

“Okay, thank you.” I pad across the floor and pass him the frame, our fingers brushing in the process.

“Of course.” His lips quirk up as he carefully arranges the frame in his suitcase.

A moment passes, and I wonder if now is a good time to ask about my present .

“Hey, I’ve been wanting to ask—“

“Oh, I’ve been meaning to ask you—“

We both stop mid-sentence and Daniel laughs, “Sorry what were you saying?”

I shake my head, courage gone. “No— sorry, go ahead.”

He looks at me curiously but continues, “Henry texted me; he and Claire invited us to their New Year’s Eve party. They’re having it in LA this year.”

I quirk an eyebrow. “Us? They want me to go?”

He shrugs. “Yeah, Claire apparently requested your presence specifically.”

“Oh, that’s nice of her. I usually stay in for New Year’s.”

“It could be fun— if you aren’t sick of me yet,” Daniel teases.

“Ha!" I laugh, "If you aren’t sick of me yet, more like.” I shake my head. “And don’t mind sharing your friends with me.”

“They’re basically your friends now, too,” he argues.

“I’m not sure one wedding constitutes that, but I appreciate the sentiment.”

“You should come.”

I stop and look at him.

“I’ll call a car and pick you up on the way.”

When I hesitate, he softens his voice. “Please come.”

I swallow, “Okay.”

I’m not a big party person, but I also know I don’t have it in my heart to deny him, especially after everything he’s done for me.

He grins. “Really?”

I nod. “Yeah, I’ll go.”

“Cool, I’ll, uh, let them know we’re coming.”

I bite my lip to suppress my smile and start planning my outfit in my head.

—-

When we arrive at Claire and Henry’s house on New Year’s Eve, I try not to gawk at the size. It’s massive and sits high on one of the tallest hills in LA, away from the noise of the city.

The first person to spot us as we walk in is, unfortunately, Eleanor. I’d hoped she was in London, and away from us, but alas.

“Daniel!” she squeals, throwing her arms around him. “I was so hoping you’d be here.”

“Hi, El,” he placates her with a strained smile. “You remember Lauren?” He gestures back to me.

“Laura?” she asks, disinterested.

“Lauren,” I correct, forcing myself to smile. “Nice to see you again.”

“Eleanor,” Daniel intervenes. “Could you point us in the direction of Henry and Claire, perhaps?”

She frowns, but quickly covers it up. “They were in the kitchen last I checked— we have just got to catch up later.”

“We will!” He agrees graciously. “Let us get a drink, and I’m sure we'll have plenty of time to talk later.”

Daniel puts a hand on my back, guiding me forward and into another room, which turns out to be the kitchen. He’s immediately drawn into a series of bro hugs and handshakes by Henry and some of his other friends.

“Lauren! I’m so glad you came!” I turn to find Claire by a table of beverages.

“Claire! So nice to see you, thank you for inviting me.”

“Thank you for coming,” she says, pulling me into a quick hug. “I told Daniel he just had to bring you.”

I laugh. “He told me you were quite persistent— I usually have a low key New Year’s at home, but this is a fun change of pace.”

“Can I get you a drink?” She asks, already reaching for a bottle of champagne.

“Sure, thank you.” I catch Daniel’s eye across the room; he’s being clapped on the back and led out of the kitchen. I smile reassuringly, hoping to communicate that I’m fine here. He seems to understand, as he smiles back and nods before turning back to his friends.

Claire giggles, bringing my attention back to her.

“You look at him with such heart eyes, it’s cute.”

I try to keep my face from panicking. “Sorry?” She laughs like my reaction is the funniest thing in the world. “Oh don’t worry, he looks at you just the same, so you’re fine.”

I chuckle nervously. “I think maybe you’ve got the wrong impression—”

She shrugs like we’re talking about something commonplace, like the weather.

“Maybe, it’s possible... but I don’t think so. Now come! There’s some other girls I’d love for you to meet.”

—-

I spend a good portion of the night talking with Claire and her friends. They’re all very kind to me, but eventually I excuse myself to get some air out on the balcony.

I’m looking up at the sky — it’s dark, dotted with faint stars and a distant passing plane — when I hear somebody come out and join me. As they settle next to me against the railing I immediately know who it is just by how comfortable I feel.

“Whatcha doin out here, LaurLaur? The New Year’s only a few minutes away.”

I grin at him. “Just getting some air and admiring the stars. From up here you can actually see them.”

He hums, looking up with me.

“It reminds me of a certain piece of art a certain someone got me for Christmas.”

He chuckles. “I’m glad you like it so much.”

“It was very thoughtful…. I wonder if any of the stars are in the same places as they were that night.”

“Which night?”

“The night everything changed. Your birthday.”

Daniel leans against the railing facing me, and looks like he’s about to say something before he changes his mind.

Eventually he speaks again. “Things are going to change again soon, right? You said you’re sure about the break up?”

I swallow, scoffing my shoe against the balcony floor.

“I mean, we still need to figure it out, but you can’t keep fake dating me forever. That isn’t fair to you.”

He smiles wistfully. “It’s not like there was anyone else I was trying to date.”

“I’m a lucky girl,” I lament, and Daniel blushes and shakes his head. “It’s a real shame we’re over, though," I jest, trying to lighten the mood. "I’ve never gotten to kiss anyone at midnight.”

His eyebrows raise in surprise. “Never?”

“Nope,” I pop the p and look down at my feet.

“Well.” He clears his throat conspiratorially. “We can agree not to bring our fake relationship into the New Year if you want, but if the kiss starts before midnight, I think we’d get by on a technicality...”

I laugh. “You really want Eleanor to hate me, don’t you?”

He grins cheekily and shakes his head. “Nah, I think I saw her latched onto some other poor bugger inside. We’re in the clear.”

I roll my eyes, looking back up at the sky. I feel his finger trace my arm, gently using my elbow to turn my attention back towards him.

His voice is softer now, “It’s up to you, but there’s no one else I’d rather kiss at midnight.”

I look into his eyes and realize he’s being sincere. My heart’s beating out of my chest. Yes, I want to kiss him, but I want it to mean something. I keep giving in because I know one day this is all going to go away, and I’ll be left with just my memories and heartache.

He must see some hesitance in my eyes, because he’s taking a step back.

“If you don’t want to, it’s fine. Really.” He shoves his hands in his pockets. “Not trying to pressure you into doing something you don’t want to do.”

I shake my head. “It’s not that I don’t want to, I just…” I trail off, looking over the balcony, trying to swallow my feelings, which have manifested as anxious tears in my eyes. I feel a tear escape, and I hastily reach up to wipe it away.

“Hey,” Daniel says gently. “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“You didn’t.” I let out a watery laugh. “Sorry, I don’t know why I’m…”

I feel his steady stare, and I come to terms with the fact that I’ve really gotten myself into a mess that I can’t just smooth over. I’m going to have to tell him.

I take a minute to compose myself, and Daniel stays quiet giving me time to put my words together as I look anywhere but at him.

“I do want to kiss you, D,” I start slowly, trying to keep my voice steady, “but I can’t if it’s just another part of our fake relationship.”

He tugs me closer by hand, gently, so I have no choice but to look at him. I swallow the lump in my throat. “I… know this wasn’t supposed to be real. But it has been, for me.”

He shakes his head and squeezes my hand. “So then stop trying to break up with me.”

I blink at him, and he continues.

“The night everything changed— your star map— I wasn’t referencing the story we told your family about my birthday.” Daniel looks at me long and hard like I’m missing something totally obvious. “It’s actually the stars from a night a month or so later.”

A month or two— Oh. OH.

“The night Ryan FaceTimed me?” I whisper, afraid to be wrong.

He takes my other hand in his, lacing our fingers together. “Listen— Fuck. I’m in love with you, Lauren.” He looks at me so intensely and my head is spinning. “I love you, and I’m in love with you.”

“What?” I ask dumbly.

He licks his lips. “A wise woman once said to me, you don’t confess to ‘kind of like someone’ when you’ve already been friends as long as we have.”

I stare at him for a second, my cheeks burning. “Well your friend sounds pretty smart.” I swallow. “Because I love you, too.”

He laughs, relief flooding his features. He pulls me to his chest, crushing me and squeezing the air out of my lungs. Eventually he pulls back, hands cupping my face.

He grins and shakes his head. “She is smart, so, so smart, but I don’t want to be her friend anymore.”

“What do you mean?” My brows furrow in confusion, worried that somehow I’ve misread this whole interaction, my relief quickly being replaced by panic.

“Well.” He steps forward, keeping our faces incredibly close. “I’m hoping she agrees to be my very real girlfriend— that is, if she doesn’t break up with me first.”

I hear everyone inside start the countdown to midnight. I’m still looking into Daniel’s eyes in disbelief, my hands clinging to the front of his shirt.

When the countdown hits one, I’ve finally found the words I want to say.

“Happy New Year, boyfriend.”

He’s grinning as he kisses me, and I am too. It’s not our most elegant kiss, a mess of teeth and giggles, and whispered “I love you”s. We never stray too far from each other’s lips, kissing again and again like we can’t get enough— and maybe we can’t.

Eventually, we calm down a bit, and when we kiss this time it’s all-consuming, sucking the air out of my lungs. It feels like my love is fizzling to the top of my skin, and I feel it. ‘It’ being every indescribable emotion in our kisses this past year, but this time I know what it is: true, unadulterated, uninhibited love. I am in love with my best friend, who is now my boyfriend, and I don’t care who knows it— as long as he does.

His fingers press bruisingly into my hips before he pulls back just enough to look at me.

“Can we go home?” He whispers sheepishly, brushing some hair out of my face tenderly. “I’m kind of tired of sharing you with the public.”

I huff a laugh. “I know exactly what you mean.” I lean forward to kiss him one last time before pulling back to lace our fingers together, squeezing tightly. “Please— take me home, D.”

I don’t have to tell him twice.

---

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