#and the light-up wristbands making things look amazing
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I failed to mention this here.
I didn’t make it through the whole concert.
I woke up at 3am yesterday (I’m graveyard, so that was sleeping in for me; I tried to sleep longer but couldn’t get back to sleep). After that, plus an 8-hour drive to Vegas, and walking into a blazing hot hotel room (it has one of those below-the-window air conditioners that had been turned off since the last guest left the room, whenever that was).
The concert started at 6:30pm with the first opening act, Kings Elliot. They (all two of them) played for a half hour.ly know a couple of his songs so I wasn’t that into it
15 minutes later at 7:15, Macklemore took the stage as the second opening act. I only know of a couple of his songs so I wasn’t that into it except for Same Love. But for most of the first two acts I was just kinda waiting for Imagine Dragons.
Macklemore played for an hour and absolutely brought the house down. I wasn’t too much into it, but the crowd was going ballistic for him (and to be fair, it was a really good performance; I was just tired and he wasn’t who I was there to see, but a LOT of the crowd knew him better than I do and I’m glad they had fun listening to him and watching his band, and he seemed blown away by the response). He mentioned that when COVID hit and live shows were a no-go, he thought his musical career was over. And touring with Imagine Dragons had revived it. So good for him. He may not be someone I’m that into (though I don’t dislike him), but to get his career back after the past few years when he could not perform, good on him. As I said, I don’t dislike him; he’s just not someone that I’m into much.
He left the stage at 8:15, and by the time the stage crew changed the stage setup for Imagine Dragons, they didn’t come out until around 8:40, so the event had already been going on for over two hours.
Dan Reynolds, the lead singer, started off talking about how he was born and raised in Vegas (which I knew, and expected him to mention, and thought that may mean a more elaborate show), and that when the band was first finding their footing, they would play for a crowd of 50 people or less at O’Sheas (the only casino I’ve EVER accused of cheating) on the strip (I rolled a 7 on Craps and they called it a four but I didn’t drink back then and I KNOW I was right).
And last night there were about 30,000 of us according to Macklemore, who considered it the best show he’s ever experienced as a performer (that may have been, as they call it in wrestling, “cheap pop,” but the crowd was CLEARLY very into the performance so I’m going to assume it was honest...with Dan I 100% believed the heart behind what he was saying).
Dan said “We’re going to play EVERYTHING” and I thought, “under normal circumstances I would LOVE this statement but I am SO tired. It’s been a VERY long day already.” And most Imagine Dragons concerts I’ve watched on YouTube (their part after opening acts) are between an hour and a half and two hours
The 15 second video I posted last night (https://ahnsael.tumblr.com/post/695086786768158720/but-we-did-all-get-light-up-wristbands-on-the-way) was during the first song of the night, My Life, which is one of my favorite songs of theirs (from last night’s show that I was at, but not filmed by me; I decided to live in the moment instead of filming except for that 15 second clip when I was blown away by the wrist band lights, and hardly used my binoculars -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrkSlioGwq8 -- I haven’t found the full concert yet but they usually end up on YouTube; so far I’ve found a couple of things that I missed).
The wristbands started lighting up when the song went from slow to fast, and they were part of literally every song that I was there for. As soon as I was outside the stadium my wristband stopped lighting up (I was hoping the signal would go the the hotel next door so I could know how long the show went). But I LOVED them opening the show with that song. King’s Elliot had talked about depression. Macklemore had talked about depression. And here was Imagine Dragons, singing a song about depression to open the show. I loved that theme since I suffer from depression and it’s ALWAYS helpful (for me, at least) to be told that I’m not alone.
At almost 10pm, Dan said “we’re just getting started. We may be here all night.”
And it’s Vegas, so I thought they may indeed play until 4am (I have almost 8 hours of their music on Apple Music).Because he said they were going to play “everything” and that’s about how long that would take. I KNEW I couldn’t last that long. And they DIDN’t play that long, but they played longer than I could last.
I had caught myself starting to doze several times, even during upbeat songs that I love. So I knew I had to call it a night. I’m sad about that. Still, no regrets on making the trip and buying the ticket and seeing what I saw. It was SO worth it.
And after walking back to the hotel (which was literally next door to the stadium), the fresh air refreshed me (but the stadium has a no reentry policy so I knew I couldn’t go back in), I couldn’t sleep. I was up until after 3am before I finally zonked out for the night. Woke up at around 9:30 this morning (so about six hours of sleep) and thought about going back to sleep until my 10:30 alarm (checkout time is 11:00am), but decided I just wanted to get home so I got up, decided to skip the shower since I knew it was going to be hot out and I’d just end up a sweaty mess anyway (even with my car’s A/C), got dressed, checked out, and came home. I got here just after 6pm.
When I went out for food (I hadn’t eaten in two days -- I’ve got to stop doing that), I spoke with the guy directing traffic into the stadium, and he didn’t know what time the show ended, but I found posts on twitter (I’m not on that site anymore but I searched the #ImagineDragons tag). Some said it ended around 11:15, some said they played until almost midnight. I can tell you that I stepped outside the room for some fresh air at around 12:30am, and the parking lot was still packed. By 1:30, it was completely empty. So I may have missed A LOT.
But the seats, at least in the nosebleeds of Allegiant Stadium, are pretty narrow and uncomfortable (just not uncomfortable enough to keep me awake, apparently). But even the reference to kids at school saying “who do you think you are, thinking you’re gonna be a big star and him saying “now you’re clapping from the nosebleeds” (reference from “Thunder”) brought the people to my left in the nosebleeds to their feet.
The drive home today was a LOT better than the drive there. I ended up on Route 186 which climbs and descends two mountains with steep grades and tight turns and it was literally scary to drive through that section. I even had a free-range cow walk out into the road in front of me and I had to brake pretty quickly and hope the tailgater also saw the cow and would react quickly enough (they did). I took a different route home (mostly Highway 95) and it was a MUCH better drive other than the tailgaters and the one person who, in a 70mph zone with nobody in front of them, suddenly hit their brakes so I passed them -- then they sped up to pass me.
Even though I didn’t get to see the whole show, I have no regrets -- except maybe I should have flown instead of driven down there. Flights from Reno to Vegas aren’t that expensive, and may have been cheaper than all the money I spent on gas to go the 850ish miles I covered in the last two days in the car (even including an Uber or Lyft to/from the hotel).
The hotel was VERY no-frills, but the staff was friendly. And when I accidentally left my key card in the room last night and locked myself out, I had no trouble getting a second key card (I was just reminded to turn both key cards in when I checked out, which I did).It was just a bed and a bathroom and a TV with the wrong aspect ratio set (I was able to fix that) but something like 139 available channels and I enjoyed watching Burns & Allen one hour, and Jack Benny the next hour (with Mel Blanc featured in the second episode). I remember growing up listening to their radio shows (I’m not that old but grew up listening to old shows on cassette).
Again, it was a great time, even though I had to cut my concert experience short.
Hopefully the rest of what I haven’t yet seen will show up on YouTube soon. But I am excited to see the performance (which IS on YouTube now -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI-z7EE3IcU -- where performers from Cirque du Soleil’s show One joined the band on stage during a performance of Sharks (you may want to watch the original music video first -- they are in that too so it makes them being at the concert make more sense -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Te3_VlimRw0).
Fun fact: while the sharks in the Bellagio fountain in that video are CGI (a fresh water fountain would be bad for a shark’s health), that’s actually Dan on the motorized surfboard in the fountain, not a stuntman. There are outtakes that prove it. He fell off of that thing A LOT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVQWlB4C8iU (also, watch the music video before you watch the making of; otherwise Ben, the bass player with the big arm movements while he’s talking to security, is just going to seem weird).
And the guy dancing at the craps table is Daniel Platzman, the group’s drummer, who liked a Facebook post of mine about being excited for the concert. Not bragging; it’s just something that made me happy. It’s not like he and I are friends now.
The other main band member is the guy with the long hair who serves the coffee. That’s Wayne Sermon, the guitar player.
Unseen: Ezekiel Schwartzman, a keyboardist/guitar player/backup vocalist who doesn’t record on the albums, but tours with the band because when they record, everything gets layered and is handled by the four main members, but on tour, they need that extra person up on stage to make things sound right (and he has his own EP called “California Cold.” -- The period is part of the title). I bought it, and he’s very talented. So one of the few times I used my binoculars last night, it was to make sure he was there, since he tends to be hidden stage right (audience’s left) from Platzman. I was glad to see that he was there, and later for the band to introduce him. His EP is mellower than most Imagine Dragons music, but still very good. Hearing the song “California Cold.” was enough for me to know I needed it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwTb0mXgF6w
Sorry to overload y’all with YouTube links. I’m still in the joy of seeing what I saw, even though I missed a lot. Now I have one day to try to get back on my graveyard sleep schedule somehow, or just go to work tired and know that the security guard who I’ve worked with for six years has my back (and he DEFINITELY does -- I don’t take advantage but I KNOW he likes working with me and has been a huge help since carpal tunnel set in).
Thus endeth the post.
#I hope that last line doesn't count as blasphemous#Imagine Dragons#SO bummed I didn't stay#even if I may have slept through some of it#but it had been a LONG day#and I just didn't even have the energy to be excited at a concert that I've been excited about for MONTHS#I feel like a bad fan#(even though there were a LOT of people leaving when I did)#we weren't walking out on the band we were just worn out#but I hope I can find the whole concert on YouTube and see what I missed#(and from a better vantagepoint than the nosebleeds where I was)#But I'm VERY glad I got to see them in person even though I missed some of the show#I love these guys#I know I missed a couple of favorites#but I was also there for a LOT of them#and them opening with My Life#and the light-up wristbands making things look amazing#really made the money and the 16 hours of driving worth it#next time I'll fly#it may be cheaper even factoring Uber or Lyft#and even if not the flight from Reno to Vegas wouldn't be 8 hours of travel each way#I want to see them again under better circumstances#but I work graveyard so a concert that starts at 6:30pm is NOT on my sleep schedule#but dang it I wish I could have lasted the whole time
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Hard Reset VIII
Pairing: Joe Burrow x Reader
Warnings: 18+ / Smut / Fluff
Description: This fic covers the trip to fall fest, plus a little before & after, during the bye week secret honeymoon.
Time/Place: Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023 / the lakehouse + fall fest
A/N: This is the eighth fic in the Hard Reset series.
I had a lot of fun writing this fall fest chapter. I actually had a few more ideas, but I nixed them because it was getting too long. I have one more lakehouse/honeymoon chapter to post after this, and then we'll be heading back to the city. I'm really busy right now due to the holidays, but I'll try to have the next installment up in the next week or so.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The smell of coffee entices you awake the next morning; you stretch your deliciously sore, nude body under the soft sheets before fluttering your eyes open, smiling at Joe as he leans over you holding a large cup of coffee, a twinkle in his eyes as he blows coffee fumes in your direction.
"What are you doing?" you laugh, pushing up into a sitting position and making a half-ass effort to tame your bedhead.
"I knew if you smelled this coffee you'd wake up," he gloats, obviously proud of himself for being right.
"Well, it smells amazing," you groan, making grabby hands at the oversized cup. "Thank you," you sigh, taking a small sip to gauge the heat level. You lick your lips in appreciation and take another sip while looking at the logo on the side of the cup. "The Cove Café," you read out loud, recognizing it as the one-stop-shop type of place -- conveniently located just across the lake -- that specializes in coffee, pastries, sandwiches, smoothies and gelato. "Did you get it delivered?"
"Yeah. The delivery guy came by boat since it's only about five minutes instead of twenty minutes by car on these curvy, winding roads. I met him down at the dock."
"It's still nice and hot," you state, shivering a little as you warm both hands on the cup and take another sip.
"Are you cold?" Joe asks.
"A little."
He whips his long sleeve t-shirt off and hands it to you, holding your coffee cup while you shimmy into it. "Better?" he asks, leaning down to drop a kiss on your lips before handing your cup back to you.
"Much better, thanks."
"Good." He stares at you for several heartbeats, his expression hard to read in the dim light.
"What are you thinking?" you eventually ask.
He sits on the edge of the bed, his eyes never leaving yours. "You know last night when we saw the shooting star or possible UFO?"
"Yeah."
"And you said you didn't wish for anything because you already have everything you want?"
"Yeah," you repeat, slightly concerned at the intense look on his face.
"Were you talking about me? Because I thought you were, but then I kind of talked myself out of it and …"
"Of course I was talking about you," you soothe, brushing your fingers through his tousled curls while giving him a smile. "You're everything I've ever wanted and more."
"Okay, good," he mutters, giving you a sheepish smile. "Just wanted to make sure." He breaks eye contact and fiddles with his wristbands as he continues. "I've been worried that I might have rushed you into this secret marriage thing."
"You didn't rush me at all," you assure him. "I wanted this just as much as you."
"That's hard to believe, but I'll take your word for it."
You try to think of something to say to reassure him, your mind landing on a thought from last night. "Remember when you said there's no place in the world you'd rather be than right here with me?" you ask.
"Yeah."
"I got a little distracted by your sexy self before I could tell you this, but I had that exact same thought earlier in the night. Like the exact same. It's almost like you read my mind."
"That's really cool," he grins, leaning forward to give you a kiss. "We've always been on the same wavelength." He gives you a playful wink before hopping up and heading for the door. "I'm gonna turn the heat up a bit and grab a couple things. Be right back."
You enjoy your caramel-flavored coffee for a few minutes before raising a hand to brush your hair out of your face, the motion causing you to catch a whiff of Joe's scent on the t-shirt you're wearing; you grab a handful of material and bring it to your nose, inhaling deeply as a throb of arousal kicks off in your core. "Absolutely not," you grumble, looking down at your sheet-covered lap as you continue. "Plenty of time for that later. Plus, you're still a little sore from last night so behave yourself. "
"Who are you talking to?" Joe asks as he breezes back in carrying a large smoothie and a plate with two huge muffins.
"My vagina."
"What?" he snort-laughs.
"I caught your scent on this shirt and it made my vag perk up, but I shut it down. We need to get to the fall fest before the rain gets here. Plenty of time to get naughty later."
"Great, now I'm getting cockblocked by fall fest," he teases, grinning as he hands you a fat muffin.
"You've got sex on the brain."
"Says the woman with the perky vag."
"Touché," you chuckle, sinking your teeth into the sweet smelling muffin. "Oh my gosh," you moan after chewing and swallowing. "What flavor is this?"
"Apple cinnamon streusel."
"It's delicious," you enthuse, taking another bite as he crawls in bed beside you and takes a bite of his muffin. "What flavor is your smoothie?" you ask, taking a sip as he offers it to you.
"Harvest bounty or something like that," he shrugs. "It has like fifteen ingredients."
"It's good," you mumble, turning your attention back to your much tastier coffee and muffin. Smoothies were def his thing more than your thing.
Y'all finish eating breakfast while exchanging small talk.
"How does your calf feel?" you ask.
"Fine. I did all of my stretches when I got up this morning and it felt good. I thought about getting in a quick work-out, but I'm still tired from the work-out you gave me last night."
"Yeah, my legs feel like jelly, and I haven't even tried to stand up yet." Y'all laugh a little before you continue. "I still can't believe you had our exact same home gym replicated here at the lakehouse."
He shrugs. "It was easy. I just ordered the equipment and sent Max a few pics of the set-up I wanted. He met the delivery guys here and showed them where to put everything."
"Is Max going to be our caretaker here?"
"Yeah. I offered him the job and he accepted. I insisted on giving him a substantial raise. He said he didn't need it, but he gave in once he realized I wasn't gonna back down."
"You're never gonna beat the stubborn allegations."
"Ain't even trying," he chuckles, giving you a cocky grin before polishing off his muffin.
"Why don't you check the weather report real quick," you urge. "See what time the rain is gonna start."
He grabs his phone and scrolls for a minute. "Looks like it won't start until early evening. We'll have plenty of time to enjoy fall fest before the storm rolls in."
"Yay!" you chirp, handing him the last bite of your muffin before easing out of bed and heading for the bathroom. "I'm gonna get a quick shower and get dressed. I'll be ready in about thirty or forty minutes."
"Babe?" he asks, just before you disappear into the en suite bathroom.
"Yeah?" you turn to look at him.
"The high temp today is 69," he purrs, giving you a filthy wink. "Pretty sure that's a good omen for tonight."
"It's good to know marriage hasn't tamed your horniness," you giggle, shaking your head as you head for the shower.
~ ~ ~
Forty-five minutes later, y'all are driving the winding road that circles the lake, finally headed to the farmers market fall fest that you've been looking forward to since it was first mentioned.
"I'm so excited!" you enthuse. "What are you looking forward to the most?" you ask.
"Pumpkin spice doughnuts and getting a couple of actual pumpkins to carve tonight." He flashes you a smile before returning his attention to the road. "What about you?"
"Both of those plus getting some apple cider to go with the spiced rum we brought."
"Are we gonna get lit while carving the pumpkins?"
"Just a little tipsy," you giggle. "We're on vacay after all." You turn your head to look at him, giving him a slow perusal as he navigates the curvy road with one big hand gripping the steering wheel. He's wearing a black backwards cap, sunglasses, a plaid flannel shirt in shades of black, gray and blue unbuttoned over a white t-shirt, plus his fav gray jeans that are stretched tight over his thick thighs. The cuffs of his shirt are rolled up to reveal his sinewy forearms, and your eyes are drawn to a prominent vein that snakes down from his elbow to his wrist.
You bite your lip and squirm in your seat when you think about another prominent vein farther south on his body that you spent quite awhile teasing with your tongue last night.
He cuts a glance at you, one eyebrow raised above the frame of his shades. "What?" he grins, reading your body language with ease.
"Just enjoying the view," you murmur.
"The view is that way," he states, pointing toward the lake in the opposite direction
"Nope, it's definitely this way," you tease, taking your sunglasses off to bat your eyelashes while ogling him.
"If you keep looking at me like that, I'm gonna turn this car around and take you right back to bed."
You give him a wink before sliding your shades back on. "I'll behave since I really wanna go to fall fest."
"Cockblocked by fall fest once again," he grumbles playfully.
"I'll make it up to you later," you promise.
~ ~ ~
Y'all pull into the parking lot about fifteen minutes later, breathing a sigh of relief that very few cars are already there. "Not too many folks here on a week-day morning," you state, grabbing your purse plus a reusable shopping bag before you exit the car. You walk beside Joe toward the entrance, smiling to yourself when he instinctively matches his much longer strides to your shorter ones.
"Ohhh, let's hit the pumpkin patch first," he urges, pointing just to the left of the main entrance where it seems there are about a thousand pumpkins sitting pretty in the late-morning sun. You quickly agree, and y'all split up to select the perfect pumpkins for carving.
After about ten minutes of serious pumpkin perusal, you hear Joe's voice coming from one row over.
"Babe?"
You can't see him due to the hay bales stacked between each row. "Yeah?" you answer, leaning down to thump your fingers against a shiny, plump candidate, making a stank face at the dull thud you get back.
"Can you come here real quick?" he continues.
"Sure." You walk to the end of the row, turn the corner and head toward him, smiling when he points at a cute display -- a jaunty scarecrow, several hay bales, and about a dozen colorful mums situated in front of a mound of pumpkins. "You're taller than the scarecrow," you tease, giggling when he sticks his tongue out at you.
"Let's take a pic real quick," he urges, waiting for you to drop your bags out of frame before joining him in front of the display. He snaps a few pics, his long arm working just as good as any selfie stick. "These are great," he states, showing you the results.
"They really are," you agree, "and we totally match," you continue. You're in another pair of black leggings with your black knee boots, a fitted white t-shirt, and a long sleeve button down shirt in a soft, medium-wash denim. You left your coat in the car because it wasn't cold enough for it.
"For real," he muses. "The Story of Us - Volume Two is gonna be awesome," he grins.
You give him a quick kiss before grabbing your bags and heading one row over to continue searching for the perfect pumpkin.
About fifteen minutes later, you round the corner again holding the ultimate carving pumpkin. You jump a bit as you immediately come face to face with Joe holding his own gorgeous gourd. Y'all eye each other's selections for a few seconds, nodding approval. His selection is tall and sturdy while yours is shorter and more voluptuous. "Perfect," he says, taking your pumpkin from you. "I'll pay for these and take them to the car while you get in line for doughnuts. I'll get the warm apple cider and come find you."
"Okay," you grin, walking toward the main entrance, your heart full of love for your bossy husband.
You're still standing in line several minutes later when Joe walks up with two cups, handing you one. "It's delicious," he says, waiting for you to take a sip of the steaming beverage, closely watching your face for your reaction. "Delicious," you echo, taking another sip before stepping forward to order your doughnuts.
Y'all eat the spicy, warm pastries washed down with cider while walking and inspecting the wares at the various booths selling fruits and vegetables, homemade goods, arts and crafts, home decor, plus lots of food and drink.
You stop in front of a display of plush blankets, quickly digging in your purse for a wet wipe from your travel pack, cleaning your hands before handing the wipe to Joe to do the same. You dry your hands on a clean napkin before reaching out to fondle one of the throws. "Sooo soft," you murmur, watching as Joe roots around in the pile of blankets before pulling out one adorned with an autumn-hued plaid with just a hint of teal.
"Perfect for the lakehouse, right?" he grins.
"Perfect," you agree.
"Let's get one for the city, too," he mutters, watching closely as you dig around for a more neutral-colored throw. "Jackpot," he states as you hold one up for inspection.
"These would make great Christmas presents," you muse, spending the next several minutes trying to decide which throws to get for everyone.
"Let's just get all of 'em, and we'll decide who to give 'em to later," Joe urges.
You agree, giving a warm smile to the vendor when he comes over to check y'all out. He raises his eyebrows as he looks at Joe. "You look kinda familiar," the vendor says. "You come here often?"
"No," Joe answers as he hands over some cash. "This is our first time here."
"We're from out of town," you add.
"I see," the vendor says, returning your smile before handing Joe his change.
"Keep the change," Joe says before y'all help the vendor stuff fourteen fluffy blankets into a couple of oversized paper shopping bags. "I'll take these to the car," Joe mutters, flashing you a conspiratorial smile. "You keep browsing."
You make it as far as the next booth before Joe catches up with you; he walks up waggling a small paper bag. "Spicy roasted nuts," he mumbles around a mouthful of said nuts. "I needed some protein to go with all the carbs."
"Good idea, babe," you state, sticking a candle under his nose. "You like this scent?"
He inhales the aroma and immediately nods his head. "Love it. What is it?"
"Honey vanilla. I like that it's not too sweet. I think I'll get a couple," you continue, placing the lid back on the candle you're holding before reaching for another one.
"Get more than a couple," Joe orders before tossing another handful of nuts in his mouth.
"They have eight of this fragrance. How many should we get?"
"Get all of 'em," he urges. "It's not like they'll go bad before we can use 'em. We can leave some here and take some back to the city."
You give him a smile and nod in agreement, secretly thrilled that he seems to be really enjoying his fall fest experience. "You keep browsing," you say. "I'll pay for these then catch up with you."
You help the vendor double wrap your candles in tissue paper to protect the glass containers before stashing them in your reusable shopping bag; as you make your way up the row of booths, you spot Joe ambling along, his head turning side-to-side to take in all of the goods. "Hey," you greet as you catch up with him.
"Hey," he echoes, holding his paper bag out to you. "Wanna taste my nuts?"
Your mouth drops open as you unleash an inelegant snort-laugh, laughing even harder when he shakes his head.
"And you accuse me of having sex on the brain," he chuckles.
"You do have sex on the brain," you state, grabbing a handful of his nuts and tossing them in your mouth.
"I mean … yeah, but can you blame me?" he asks. "I've got a smoking hot wife."
"You're getting laid tonight, Burrow," you slide your sunglasses down and give him a wink. "No flattery needed."
"It's not flattery. It's the truth."
You give him a smile and take another handful of nuts as y'all continue strolling up the row.
"Pumpkin tic-tac-toe!" Joe chirps, grabbing your hand and leading you to a display that features a square, black table with orange tape used to create the tic-tac-toe rows; there's a hay bale in front of the table holding five white and five orange mini pumpkins, each about the size of a grapefruit. "How much to play?" Joe asks the elderly man sitting in a folding chair reading a newspaper.
"You can play for free," he answers, nodding at a large glass jar with some coins and dollar bills in it. "But if you'd like to make a donation to the local food bank, we'd appreciate it."
Joe gives him a nod and stuffs several twenties in the jar before leveling a 'game face' look at you. "Which color would you like to lose with?" he teases, "white or orange?"
"I'll take white," you answer, knowing he'll def want the orange.
"You go first," he urges, raising one eyebrow when you place a white pumpkin in the upper right corner; after a few more moves, the game ends in a draw. "Okay, my turn to go first," he mutters, plopping his orange pumpkin in the center square. After a few more moves, the game ends in another draw and Joe gives you an evil grin. "You'll slip up in a minute," he states. "It's only a matter of time.
Y'all play several more games with each ending in a draw.
"Looks like we're pretty evenly matched," you eventually muse, giggling when he makes a stank face. "One more game," you continue, knowing you have to end this or y'all will still be playing when the storm rolls in; you set a white pumpkin down top center, smiling at Joe when he tilts his head and gives you a look before setting his own pumpkin down. He wins the game fairly quickly after.
"Congrats," you smile, picking up your purse and shopping bag while Joe cuts a look at the vendor who's been mostly ignoring y'all while reading his paper.
"She let me win, didn't she?" Joe asks.
"She sure did," the vendor grins. "Good woman you got there."
"The best," Joe agrees, swatting your butt playfully as y'all head toward the next booth.
You stop in front of the booth, intrigued by several colorful fondue pots holding glossy tan liquid. Joe stops beside you and reads the card in front of each fondue pot. "Salted caramel, cinnamon caramel, chocolate caramel, peanut butter caramel, dairy-free caramel." He gives you a beaming smile when he reads the last card. "Dairy-free," he purrs, turning the full wattage of his smile on the vendor as he steps closer to the booth.
"Would you like to sample the dairy-free?" she asks, somehow managing to tear her eyes away from Joe for a second to include you in her offer.
"Yes," he states, rubbing his hands together and licking his lips in anticipation. The vendor, who looks to be in her late teens, seems mesmerized by him for a few seconds before clearing her throat and forging ahead.
"I have homemade marshmallows and apple slices you can dip in the caramel. Do any of those sound good?"
"Yes and yes," Joe enthuses, snatching an apple slice off of the plate she holds toward him before dunking it in the caramel and offering it to you; you hold eye contact with him as you bite into the juicy delicacy, chewing slowly as he watches you closely. "Is it good?" he asks, popping the rest of the apple slice in his mouth before grabbing a marshmallow.
"It's delicious," you answer, a little surprised at how good it actually is.
He dips the marshmallow in the caramel -- careful not to touch his fingers in the glossy goo -- and tosses it in his mouth, his eyes going wide as he chews. "Really good," he mumbles, grabbing another marshmallow and ripping it in half before dunking half and offering it to you.
"We have these little forks you can use," the vendor offers, waving her hand at several long, narrow forks before gracing Joe with a smile.
"I'd rather feed her with my fingers," Joe states. "I promise not to touch the caramel or double dip."
You chew the caramel-coated marshmallow and throw a grin at the vendor who tears her gaze away from Joe to return your smile. "This is the best dairy-free caramel I've ever tasted," you state. "Do you sell the marshmallows, too?"
"Yes," she mutters, stepping back as an older woman walks up with a big smile on her face. "You like the dairy-free caramel, huh?" she asks, looking back and forth between you and Joe.
"Love it," you answer.
"I have four jars left …"
"We'll take all four," you and Joe say in unison, laughing at the synchronicity.
"Can we get a couple bags of marshmallows, too?" Joe asks, grinning when she gives him a nod and reaches down to grab a couple bags of the fat, fluffy confections.
"Anything else?" she asks, bagging up your purchases as you eye a few boxes on a side table. "You sell the fondue pots, too?" you inquire, grinning at Joe as he walks over and looks at the dozen or so boxes.
"Sure do," she answers, "only have a few left though. What color do you want?"
"Teal," you and Joe answer together, pointing at one of her sample pots and, once again, laughing at the synchronicity.
"You kids seem to be on the same wavelength," she chuckles, grabbing a box and adding it to your bag.
"It's kind of our thing," Joe brags, paying for the purchases while you wait.
You turn your head and spot the younger girl who'd helped you earlier snapping a pic of Joe, her eyes going wide when she realizes she's been caught. You walk toward her, smiling when she mumbles an apology. "You recognize him?" you ask.
"Yeah," she whispers. "He's Joe Burrow and you're his fiancée."
"Want a pic with him?"
"Really?" she asks, her face lighting up.
"Sure," you answer, waving Joe over. You take her phone and instruct Joe to pose, laughing internally at his obvious hover hand as you snap the pic.
"Thanks!" she enthuses as you hand her phone back to her.
"You're welcome," you grin, taking Joe's hand as y'all walk to the next booth.
"Can we do the fondue thing tonight?" Joe asks, plowing ahead before you answer. "We have marshmallows to dip, and maybe we can get a few more pumpkin spice doughnuts and some apples."
"Sounds like a sugar rush, but I'm down," you say, "but we still need to stop at the grocery store and get some actual food to cook for dinner. I don't want to force a delivery driver to venture out in a thunderstorm later."
"Okay," he agrees, his beaming smile coaxing an answering smile to your lips.
~ ~ ~
A few hours later y'all arrive back at the lakehouse, making several trips to bring in your haul.
You pop a jug of apple cider in the fridge -- along with some salmon and a chopped salad y'all got at the grocery store for dinner-- before heading back out to help Joe bring in more stuff.
"I've got this, babe," he says, lugging several bags in while giving you a wink. "Why don't you heat up some cider with a little spiced rum, and we can sit on the deck and enjoy the sunset?"
"Do we have time before the storm gets here?"
"Yeah," he says, dropping the bags before heading back out. "I checked the radar, and we have about an hour before the storm gets here."
You do his bidding, heating up some cider and rum in oversized mugs, taking a swig and making a face as he strolls back in and plops the pumpkins on the kitchen island.
"Wow, that's potent," you giggle, taking another gulp as you push his mug toward him.
"It's delicious," he moans, taking his cap off and tossing it on the island before grabbing your new plush throw -- autumn-hued with a hint of teal -- and nodding toward the back deck. "Let's go enjoy the sunset."
Joe lights the fire pit before joining you on the loveseat, wrapping the blanket around you both as you hold the mugs of boozy cider; you hand him his mug and snuggle up against him, throwing your legs over one of his thick thighs and resting your head on his shoulder.
"I'm so glad the adjacent lots came with the house," you muse.
"Yeah," Joe agrees. "I was already in love with the house, but when I found out it was sitting directly in the center of three oversized lots, I was totally sold."
"Lots of privacy," you grin, snuggling tighter against his warm body as the wind picks up, blowing some of the jewel-colored leaves off the trees. "The temp is dropping pretty quick, and the clouds are rolling in," you say. "Rain's gonna be here sooner than expected."
"We probably have another twenty minutes or so to enjoy the sunset before it gets here."
"That's good," you murmur. "Thanks for taking me to fall fest," you continue, kissing his neck before taking another swig of your cider.
"You're welcome. I had fun, especially since very few folks recognized me."
"I think several people may have recognized you but just didn't say anything. It's hard to say if they were staring at you because you looked familiar or because you're sex on legs."
"You're getting laid tonight, Mrs. Burrow," he repeats your earlier words. "No need for flattery."
"It's the absolute truth and you know it," you state, heaving a happy sigh as he curls an arm around your waist under the soft blanket, his long fingers rubbing lazy circles on your hip through your leggings.
Y'all sip your drinks and admire the view for a few minutes before you speak up again.
"I've been thinking," you mutter, tilting your head to look at him. "What will we say if folks find out we got secretly married?"
"I'll take all of the blame, of course," he states, "since it was my idea."
"But what will we tell folks if they ask why we did it?"
"The truth," he shrugs. "I wanted to do it to give me one less thing to stress over."
"And what if someone says 'You were already getting married in the off-season. You couldn't wait?'"
"I'll say no, I couldn't wait to make you mine." His gaze drops to your lips just before he presses his mouth to yours, licking along the seam of your lips to coax them open, deepening the kiss as he pulls you closer. You lean into the kiss for a few minutes before pulling back slightly. "I've been yours since the night we shared our first kiss," you whisper against his slick lips. He lifts his head to meet your eyes. "And now it's official," he grins. "You're stuck with me for life."
You continue grinning at each other like lovesick fools until he flinches and reaches a hand up to the top of his head. "Please don't let that be bird shit," he grumbles, sighing in relief when a light patter of rain starts falling. "It's just rain," he chuckles, taking your mug of cider and setting it down beside his on the coffee table. "Hurry inside before our kickass blanket gets wet," he orders. "I'll put the cover on the fire pit."
You rush inside and watch through a window as he grabs the fire pit cover and secures it in place before grabbing both mugs and heading your way; you hold the door open for him as he hurries inside just before the rain intensifies.
"Well, we got to see most of the sunset," he smiles, handing you a mug before running his fingers through his slightly-damp hair. 'Wanna carve the pumpkins now?"
"Sure," you answer. "Where are we gonna do it?"
"Let me get a fire going, and we can move the table in front of the fireplace."
"Sounds good." You drape the blanket over the back of the sofa before heading toward the kitchen. "Let's light a few of our new candles, too." You pull four of the eight candles out of your shopping bag and set them on either side of the large stone hearth, waiting for Joe to get the fire going before taking the stick lighter from him to light the candles. "Super cozy," you sigh, setting the lighter down before helping Joe move a card table and two chairs in front of the fireplace. He'd purchased the table and chairs to use until you could pick out an actual dining table.
"I'll get the pumpkins," he says.
"I'll get everything else." You grab a beach towel, two knives, two large spoons, two pens, and an oversized mixing bowl for the guts.
Joe waits for you to place the towel on top of the table before setting the pumpkins down; he grabs your mugs of cider and sets them down while you place a knife, a spoon, and a pen beside each pumpkin, positioning the large bowl in the center of the table.
"I don't need a pen," Joe states, stripping his flannel shirt off and tossing it on the sofa before dropping into his chair directly across from you.
You take your denim shirt off and hang it on the back of your chair before sitting down. "You don't wanna draw the face before you start carving?"
"I'm just gonna wing it," he grins, taking a hearty swig of cider before tipping his pumpkin onto its side, picking up a knife and plunging it into the bottom, quickly making a circular cut and removing the chunk. "Want me to handle your bottom for you?" he asks, grinning at your loaded expression. "The bottom of your pumpkin, horndog," he chuckles, pulling your pumpkin toward him when you give him a wink and a nod.
Once he opens your pumpkin up and pushes it back in front of you, y'all both grab big metal spoons and start scooping, eventually filling the bowl almost to the brim with gourd goop.
"I'm gonna wash my hands before I start carving the face," Joe mutters once his pumpkin is hollowed out. "Me too." You follow him to the kitchen sink, each giving your hands a quick wash before heading back to the table.
"Time to get down to business," he states, grabbing his knife and tilting his head left and right before starting to cut, his tongue peeking out the corner of his mouth as he concentrates.
You take a few minutes to draw your jack-o-lantern face before cutting. "I'm gonna give mine a happy face," you state.
"I'm gonna give mine a mean game face," Joe snarls, flashing you a smile when you giggle at him.
Y'all work for the next several minutes without speaking, the sound of the pouring rain and crackling fire the only noises.
You finish the eyes and nose and are just about to start on the mouth when you give Joe a quick glance, your pulse reacting when you find him staring at you. "Are you finished?" you murmur.
"Not yet. Just enjoying the view."
You bite your lip and stare back at him for several heartbeats, a thought flashing in your mind that you'll never get enough of the way he looks at you … or the way he makes you feel.
Eventually a loud clap of thunder makes you gasp and jump, breaking the spell for a second.
"The storm's right on top of us," he murmurs.
"I can feel the electricity in the air," you whisper, taking a few gulps of cider, a sizzle of heat rushing through you at the look on his face.
"I think the electricity is coming from us," he purrs, standing up and holding a hand out to you.
"I need to get a quick shower," you say, placing your hand in his as you stand up.
"No, you don't," he argues, pulling you close, his hands immediately dropping to your butt as he buries his face in your neck, his soft scruff causing a shiver of desire as he kisses his way up to the sensitive spot behind your ear.
"I was gonna wear the naughty lingerie tonight … after I have a shower," you protest weakly, gripping his shoulders as you lean into him, lightheaded from the mixture of spiced rum and arousal.
"Later," he murmurs, dropping to his knees to remove your boots and socks before standing back up.
"But …"
"Are you wet for me?" he interrupts, cupping one big hand over your crotch and teasing you through your leggings.
"Maybe," you whisper, your breath catching in your throat when he slides a hand inside your leggings, his agile fingers quickly slipping into your panties, a sound of satisfaction rumbling low in his throat at how wet you are for him.
"I need you naked. Now," he states, picking you up and setting you on the leather sofa before peeling your t-shirt and leggings off. You take your bra off as he slides your panties down your legs, the look on his face setting off a steady throb deep inside you.
He strips his own t-shirt off and drops to his knees before spreading your thighs; he pulls your ass to the edge of the sofa cushion, his hot tongue immediately teasing your slick folds with long, slow licks. "You taste so good," he groans, his deep voice, thick with lust, caressing you like a physical touch.
You bury a hand in his hair and watch closely as he devours you, his tongue inside you and his scruff tickling your most sensitive flesh causing a delicious tension to build in your core. "Please," you beg, biting your lip hard enough to sting as he captures your gaze while gently circling your clit with his tongue; he continues to tease you with his mouth while sliding his hands up your body to play with your nipples, groaning when you pull his hair and grind against him.
"Harder!" you urge, gasping when he latches onto your clit and gives it a thorough suck. "Just like that," you breathe, "don't stop!" You keep your gaze locked on his as the tension inside you reaches the breaking point, giving his hair another tug as your intense climax hits, your cries of pleasure mingling with the rolling thunder as he continues to pleasure you through the orgasm.
You're still trying to catch your breath when he shoves his jeans and undies down to mid-thigh and nestles his erection against your entrance. "You ready?" he asks, dipping just inside while waiting for the go ahead. "Yeah," you pant, whimpering when he buries his cock inside your still spasming core, the thick intrusion causing you to clamp down hard. "Jesus, you feel too good," he groans, his hips immediately rolling forward in smooth, steady strokes as you wrap your trembling legs around him.
He leans down and captures your lips, gracing you with a primal growl when you suck his tongue into your mouth. "You taste amazing, don't you?" he asks, riding you even harder when you give him a breathless, "yes, sir," before continuing to savor the taste of your arousal on his tongue.
He cups a hand behind your right knee and lifts your leg over his shoulder, the new angle tilting your hips in a way that has him hitting your sweet spot with every thrust. You moan his name as he completely fills you up -- over and over -- the exquisite stretch of his thick cock inside you straddling the fine line between pleasure and pain.
"Can you come for me again?" he rasps, dropping a hand down to tease your super sensitive clit while pounding into you. "Y … yes," you whine, feeling another climax building as his soft grunts accompany his hard thrusts, his icy-hot gaze locked on yours as he expertly pushes you toward meltdown.
You dig your fingers into his muscular arms and make a sound that's part whimper/part scream as your orgasm rips through you, your gaze still holding his as he manages a few more thrusts before following you over the edge. His beautiful eyes lose focus before sliding closed in ecstasy, his head tilting back as he empties himself into you as your clenching walls milk him dry.
He eventually falls forward and buries his face in your neck; for the next few minutes, the only sounds you hear are the snap and crackle of the fire, the distant thunder, and you and Joe panting hard to catch your breath.
After a little while longer, you flutter your eyes open, your gaze coming to rest on your partially-carved pumpkin staring at you. "My jack-o-lantern is hardcore judging us right now," you giggle.
Joe drops a kiss against your neck before throwing a look over his shoulder. "Yep," he agrees. "She looks totally scandalized." He gives you a wink before slowly pulling out of you, both of you hissing at the delicious friction.
"You wanna finish carving the pumpkins now or you wanna rest?" you ask, stretching out on the oversized sofa as he stands up and strips off the rest of his clothes.
"Let's rest for a bit," he answers, heading to the kitchen to get a damp cloth to clean you up before stretching his tall frame out beside you; he tugs the plush blanket down on top of y'all, pulling you close and making sure you're fully covered before dropping a kiss on your forehead.
A few minutes pass before he speaks up again. "Would it be cheesy to say there's no place I'd rather be than right here with you?"
You snuggle closer to him, a smile gracing your lips as you answer. "Would it be cheesy to admit I was thinking the exact same thing?"
"We're on the same wavelength, as usual," he chuckles.
"It's kind of our thing," you repeat his words from earlier, his familiar scent and the sound of his strong heartbeat lulling you to sleep as your eyes flutter closed.
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Summary: When Naruto finds out Hinata is weird...
Written for NH Fair, NH Month 2023 Day 2 Prompt: Maid Cafe
Rated T.
Unexpected Miracles - Short One-shot
So there’s this classmate. New friend. She’s pretty.
Glossy hair.
Cute smile.
Squishy cheeks.
Shiny eyes.
Clear skin.
And always put-together. Talks nice, laughs nice, well-mannered.
She’s just simply nice, never a bad thing to say about anything or anyone. And so pretty, he feels like he should try harder to be fashionable and cool if he’s going to try to act on his attraction.
As a nerdy gamer and manga fan who’d rather spend money on building a good computer, he only puts in passing effort to look presentable at school. A low maintenance haircut, a good collared shirt, and basic jeans.
He can tell they probably run in different circles of people. To be honest, he wouldn’t have thought to notice her if she hadn’t sat next to him in their literature class. He wouldn’t have even tried to talk to her if they hadn’t needed to do partner discussions. He would have never thought to exchange contact information and message her if she hadn’t offered to split the cost on textbooks with him.
And this, too, is something he never expected.
He’s standing across the street from a maid cafe.
He’s watching his nice, pretty classmate walk around in there, and she’s dressed in a fluffy maid outfit, complete with the fluffy little headband-thingy, the fluffy wristbands, the fluffy apron, the knee-high socks…
When he found out she works part-time at a cafe, he boldly suggested he stop by to visit, and she sweetly said, “Oh, no, you don’t have to do that, Naruto-kun. I’ll just be working, so it’s not worth your time.”
He didn’t think much of it, other than that it was kinda weird she didn’t tell him the name of her workplace. And by some miracle, he just happened to see her while heading back home from shopping for a new external hard drive.
His pretty classmate is actually on a whole other, previously unknown level of weird.
Who’d have thought that behind her picture-perfect fashionable exterior lay the type of girl who adores the maid aesthetic?
The traffic light changes, he crosses the street quickly, and without hesitation, he pulls the door open.
The little bell above rings, and a maid greets him with a joyful smile.
But he only has eyes for his classmate-friend, and seeing her much closer in all her fluffy glory is absolutely amazing. And it’s crazy how the uniform makes her seem even curvier than he thought.
She doesn’t notice him at first, but eventually she does, and the angelically shocked look on her face is priceless.
This is the first time they’re seeing each other outside of campus.
In his worn t-shirt that proudly spells out the name of the RPG game he loved two years ago and in decidedly comfy yet dorky khakis, he is absolutely not the same Naruto she usually sees.
“Hi, Hinata.”
“N-N-Naruto-kun?” She steps up to him quickly, and the blush glowing over her face and neck is really the most incredible sight. “What are you doing here?” She’s blinking quite a bit, unable to meet his eyes, and he realizes she might be stressed out. Or embarrassed.
“I was shopping for a new hard drive.” He notices how she’s starting to look a little upset, so he admits, “You look really cute.”
To his relief, her eyes dart up to meet him, and she smiles a tiny bit, the blush at her cheeks deep and red. She bites her lips and her shoulders wiggle, the movement accentuated by the puffiness of the sleeves and the ruffled apron straps.
“Are you a friend of Hina-tan’s?” the other maid asks.
A gleeful smile wiggles out onto his own face, and he glances back to his classmate-friend. “Hina-tan?”
Hina-tan’s hands come up to hold her cheeks. She bends over to whisper in her coworker’s ear, “Yes, Naruto-kun’s my friend,” and the other maid’s lips purse together in a thrilled sort of expression.
“Well, will Naruto-sama be dining in with us today?”
So he’s officially a friend, not just a classmate! He quickly glances at the pink menu on display that shows sparkly photos of uber-cute food and desserts. That are a little pricy. “Maybe another day. I just wanted to stop in to say hi.”
“Okay. We hope you come again soon!” The other maid bows, Hina-tan bows, and he gives her a lingering look and smile before leaving.
-
So there’s this guy she’s been sitting next to in class. Heart-stoppingly cool.
Tall!
Short, light hair. Like that “best friend of the emo-love interest” type of characters in all the shoujo manga she read growing up.
Strong eyes and warm smile. Like he always seems to know what’s going on in class, participating a lot, but it turns out he’s just really good at faking it. “Yeah, I don’t do the readings very often, but the discussions are always interesting! So I’m really enjoying the class!”
Healthy, tan skin. Call it her dreamy-rebellious side, but she has a thing for guys who look like they don’t care about traditional beauty standards. (Don’t expect to catch her without sunscreen on, though.)
He talks with a kind of roughness that also just sounds of sunshine and carelessness, but everything he says seems sincere. Like whatever comes out of his mouth is thoughtlessly flung out into the open while also being the most kind encouragements or clever jokes.
He’s funny. Nice to mostly everyone. When they’re together in class, she can almost forget about all the stress of college life, all the stress of the expectations from her father.
Naruto’s just so cool, it’s a miracle he even talks to her. It’s a miracle he includes her in his conversation, despite how quiet she is. It’s a miracle he even messages her, and she supposes that he must just be that nice and sociable.
Just absolutely one of the coolest people she’s ever met, and so she knows he absolutely would be weirded out by her secret hobbies.
So.
Why was he here in her workplace calling her “really cute” and “Hina-tan” with a huge smile?
How did he find out her secret so quickly after asking her about her part-time job??? Isn’t that coincidence too much? Why must the world do this to her???
To her great relief, she finds his message soothing her worries after her shift is over. “Sorry to surprise you like that today. I was really just passing by and happened to see you. Btw the maid outfit really suits you!”
Pleased heat rises to her cheeks. A kind of giddiness flits about her heart. “Thank you 😊 I was happy to see you” On reflection, yes, she was surprised, and she would’ve liked forewarning, but of course she was still glad to get to see him. Outside of the classroom. So it feels like their relationship has deepened past an initial friendship. Afterall, only her childhood friends know about how she likes to dress up and pretend she’s in a different world. None of her family knows. And…based on his reaction, maybe he’s not weirded out at all? “And I hope I didn’t make you feel like you couldn’t stay. You are welcome to visit again”
Surprisingly, he responds fairly quickly. “Only if Hina-tan is my server!”
He’s calling her by that nickname!!! “🙈 Okay, I’d be happy to! I work on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday”
The following week, he’s got a huge grin on when he greets her in class. He’s even more open and friendly to her. And, as expected, he visits the maid cafe that Saturday with an antisocial-looking boy who seems like he’d rather not be there and a fashionable girl with pink hair.
She hopes the girl is just a friend of his and not something more. He hasn’t said anything about a girlfriend…
After she’s taken them to a table, he introduces her to them. “This is Hinata, my friend in my lit class. Hinata, this is Sasuke and Sakura.”
“Hello,” she greets, noticing how Sakura has a big smile. “Thank you for coming today.”
“Ohh, it’s my first time in a maid cafe! I’ve always wanted to try one. I’m so glad Naruto invited us to come here! You look so adorable!”
“Thank you,” she replies. If Sakura actually is Naruto’s girlfriend, she can’t be too upset about it when it seems like she’s really nice.
They order the only meal items, the nya-nya cat omurice, sweet curry doggy, and sleeping bear croquette, and when it comes time to pay, Naruto pays for his own dish. Sasuke pays for Sakura’s.
Hope rises in her heart once more.
“If you’re not busy tomorrow, you should join us at the movies!” Sakura invites.
“Oh! I might be able to.” She chances a glance at Naruto and he’s nodding.
He smiles. “I’ll send you the details. I hope you can join us.”
His warm tone makes her feel all fluttery inside. “Okay.”
As they’re leaving, she notices Sakura giving him a light punch on the arm, and they’re elbowing each other in a friendly way. He turns, catching her stare, and he gives her the cutest smile, yet.
“I hope you can join us.” His words replay in her mind even after they’ve left the cafe.
She might be jumping to conclusions…she may be making wild assumptions…but she thinks… She thinks that maybe…she was just invited to something like a double-date.
To Naruto’s message with the movie details, she replies, “I can come. Thank you for inviting me!”
“Great! See you tomorrow!”
“See you tomorrow :)”
-
Thanks to Sakura and Sasuke’s cooperation, he’s been able to hang out with Hinata this weekend. It turns out that Hinata enjoys anime, too, and she had been wanting to see this live-action adaptation.
And now that the movie is over, the couple is pretending they have to leave, and he’ll be able to ask her out on a real date.
“Thank you for coming out with us today, Hinata! Sasuke-kun and I have to go, so we can’t have dinner with you guys, but this was really fun!” Maybe Sakura should be trying to be an actor instead of a doctor.
“Thank you for inviting me. The movie was really good.” Hinata is picture-perfect polite and soft-spoken as usual.
“It was fun. See you guys.” Even Sasuke is approving of Hinata, having commented after the maid cafe that she’s not annoyingly try-hard cutesy the way he worried she would be.
“See you guys later! Thanks for coming out!” He bids goodbye to his childhood friends and turns to face Hinata.
She turns a shy smile up at him.
“So…would you like to get dinner with me?”
“Okay,” she agrees quietly, smiling, and the hyper-awareness surrounding them in their new solitude is too much for him.
He decides to just address it, and with adrenaline running smooth in his veins, he asks, “Can we call it a date?”
Her eyes widen, her cheeks pinken, and she nods with a bigger smile. “Yes, I’d like that.”
He finds himself mirroring her expression. “Alright,” he cheers. “Anywhere you want to go?”
“Mmm… how about we just walk around to look first?”
“Sure!”
He’s glad he happened to find out about her part-time job. Because, to be honest, he thinks he wouldn’t have thought they might be a good match. He wouldn’t have known she’s more than just a pretty face and a nice attitude. He would’ve been content to exist as her classmate-friend, just a friendly face in their literature class.
He wouldn’t have found out that she’d like a date with him, too.
And now, he can’t help but wonder what other unexpected miracles await him with her.
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Happy birthday to the amazing @be11atrixthestrange ! Christmas in July is overrated so I wrote Halloween in July instead 🧡🖤
(Also nsfw)
Haunted
“This is barmy,” Ron grumbles as the queue inches forward. Hermione nudges him in the side, and Ginny disentangles herself from Harry just enough to shoot Ron a glare over her shoulder.
“It’s just for fun,” Hermione replies, looping her arm through his as she glances at the eclectic crowd around them. They’re surrounded by witches, vampires, and magical creatures—or at least, Muggles dressed as such. The back end of a drunk unicorn stumbles into Ron, contradicting Hermione’s statement.
“Right,” Ron snorts with a roll of his eyes. “Fun.”
The entrance looms above the four of them, the words Hugo’s House of Horrors spelled out in giant letters that have the grotesque appearance of being written in dripping blood. It reminds Ron of the message scrawled outside the Chamber of Secrets in their second year, though ironically, it was Ginny’s idea to spend Halloween at a Muggle haunted house after one of her teammates had recommended the experience. Harry and Hermione had both readily agreed, but Ron found the whole concept a bit ridiculous. After all, weren’t there enough real horrors in their lives without this manufactured bullshit?
“Oh, hush,” Ginny chides, extending her arm to the zombie bellboy who waits at the entrance with a handful of neon orange wristbands. “We’ll go to the pub after.”
“Should’ve gone there first,” Ron mutters as the attendant affixes a wristband to him.
“Beware the terrors that await you inside,” the zombie says in an over-dramatic greeting. “Four of you will enter, but take care that all four of you exit.” He adopts what Ron assumes is meant to be an evil laugh as the front door of the building swings open to admit their group. The spiderwebs strewn above the door are clearly store-bought, but Ron can’t help giving them a scrutinizing look before ducking beneath them, Hermione’s hand clutched tightly in his.
The door slams behind them, leaving them alone for the moment in complete darkness. Ron knows that the fear a haunted house is meant to instill is based on shock and awe more than anything else, but the anticipation fills him with unexpected dread. It’s all fake, he knows, but there must be a reason these things are so popular among Muggles.
Across from them, a door appears in a sudden glow of green light around its edges before swinging open with an eerie creak. Ginny and Harry lead the way into a room filled with more zombies like the one at the entrance. The characters groan and make a show of reaching for them as they pass through, though none of them come nearly close enough to try and eat the brains they’re moaning about.
The next rooms feature a chainsaw wielding maniac, a deranged butcher, and a mad scientist, all of whom keep a very safe distance from their guests.
“It’s a liability issue,” Hermione leans up to whisper to Ron, though she jumps as an animatronic monster rises from the scientist’s table. “So no one gets hurt for real.”
“How terrifying,” Ron replies sarcastically. “Remind me not to let Ginny make plans for us anymore.”
“I know it’s a bit silly,” Hermione agrees. “It was just something for the four of us to do together.” They exit into an empty hallway lit only by the light show of cartoon ghosts that move across the walls. Ginny and Harry have gotten ahead of them, apparently not realizing that they’ve left Ron and Hermione behind.
“It’s okay,” Ron concedes, reaching for Hermione with one hand and the next doorknob with his other. “Just hard to find this stuff scary when we went to school with real ghosts and shit.”
“I’d say the ghosts were the least of our worries at school.” Hermione chuckles as she follows his lead, but Ron stops short just inside the room. It’s clearly part of the haunted house, but it looks more like storage than an active segment of the route. A scarecrow missing its head is propped up in a corner, a mess of plastic headstones stacked on top of one another lines the wall beside them, and the room lacks the cheesy light and sound effects that permeate the rest of the structure.
“You’d think they would have this door locked.” Ron shakes his head as he turns to leave, only to find Hermione leaning against the door, blocking their path out. “What are you doing?”
“I think we just found a way for you to enjoy yourself on this little outing,” Hermione whispers.
The sultry look in her eyes is unmistakable, but Ron still finds himself asking in disbelief, “Here?” The haunted house isn’t exactly ideal for romance, surrounding them in a facade of death and destruction...but then again, their first kiss was in the middle of a war. Sod it, he thinks as Hermione throws her arms around his neck, and he responds to her kiss with matching enthusiasm.
She tears her lips from his just long enough to mutter a locking charm on the door before propping herself on the nearest tombstone—belonging to a Zom B. Hunter—to wrap her legs around his waist. Ron groans as his arousal presses against her, his trousers already tight. He’s not sure how far she intends to take this spooky romp, but he’s excited to find out.
He unfastens the buttons of her coat and slips his hand under her sweater, pushing the cup of her bra aside to palm the soft skin of her breast. Hermione lets out a moan as his thumb finds her nipple, only to clap a hand over her mouth. “I didn’t cast a silencing charm,” she whispers between her fingers.
“We’re in a haunted house,” Ron murmurs in reply as his other hand slides around to her back, popping the clasp of her bra with practiced fingers to give him better access. “You could just be a very randy ghost.”
Hermione glares at him as she reaches for his belt, releasing the buckle in one easy motion. “Or we could just go back to said haunted house and finish the tour,” she says even as she unfastens his jeans, letting her fingers drag behind his zipper and causing Ron to see stars.
“You don’t want that.” He retaliates by sliding his hand down between her legs. He can feel the heat even through her corduroy and he knows he’s right.
“No, I don’t.”
Ron ducks his head to fuse their lips together again. Their hands are a flurry of motion as fabric is pushed aside and buttons unfastened. They’ve had a lot of practice at making the most of hurried opportunities for sex in less than ideal locations, between time spent at the Burrow and Hermione’s last year at Hogwarts—his father’s tool shed and the potions cupboard on the third floor both immediately spring to mind—but Ron has to admit that a haunted house is not one he’d ever thought they’d check off.
They’re both undressed in short order—or, as undressed as is strictly necessary for a haunted house quickie—and matching sighs of satisfaction escape them as Ron buries himself inside her. Hermione crosses her ankles behind his bum, pulling him deeper and urging him on. Their surroundings fade to the background as they move together, and it’s not long before Ron feels his release approaching.
Wanting to make sure Hermione gets as much out of this as he does, he slips a hand between them, fingers working furiously to bring her to her peak. She moans out his name as her walls clench around him, and that’s all it takes to send him tumbling over the edge with her.
They both take a moment to catch their breath before Ron slips out of her and plants a soft kiss on her lips. “You’re amazing, you know that?”
Hermione smiles as she casts a quick cleaning charm on them both. “I just thought this might make a more enjoyable evening for you.”
“Mission accomplished.” Ron plucks her knickers off the headstone where they landed and hands them to her. “Let’s get out of here and hit the Leaky.”
Harry and Ginny are both wearing knowing looks when they catch up to them outside, though Ginny’s expression is more akin to a grimace.
“Starting to worry you two had gotten attacked by a werewolf or something,” Harry teased.
“Not exactly.” Hermione shoots Ron a grin, her cheeks still flushed and her curls coming loose from her hair clip.
Ginny rolls her eyes with a groan. “Now I need a drink,” she says as she turns and starts up the street. “You two are more horrifying than any haunted house.”
#romione#ron weasley#hermione granger#ron x hermione#romione fanfic#halloween#haunted house#cemetery smut
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Parenting Handbook
Pairing: Lee Seokmin x Fem!Reader
Tags: 1.9k, Oneshot, Slice Of Life, Humor, Parent!AU, Married!AU.
Warnings: language, implied spicy tango, baby talk.
Summary: Enjoying the day with your family at the carnival involves your husband popping a very serious question.
“It’s the morning!” Your son cries, launching himself onto your bed and wiggling between you and your sleeping husband. You try your hardest to ignore him, smothering your face into the pillow while he pokes at your shoulder, “Mommy! Wake! Up!”
“Baby, it’s a Saturday!” You protest with a long groan, “Can Mommy get one day to sleep in? Just one...” You mumble, rolling over to face the ceiling with an arm thrown over your eyes, trying desperately to block out the light filtering through the curtains of your bedroom window.
“No,” Another voice chimes in, your daughter, “Daddy said we could go to the carnival today so you have to get up and get ready!”
You lift your arm just high enough to peer over at your husband who could pass as sleeping if not for the tiny smirk playing on his lips. Suddenly, your son roars with laughter as Seokmin shoots up out of what looked like a dead sleep and wraps him in his arms, tickling him relentlessly.
“Sorry, Mommy. Kids are right and a promise is a promise,” He says with a bright smile and you can’t find it in you to argue when you look at his handsome face.
The fact that he always looks this good first thing in the morning is bewildering. Not once in the past ten years has that man looked anything less than gorgeous in any situation. It’s witchcraft.
“You are all lucky I love you,” You huff in exasperation, “Go get dressed and brush your teeth. Sissy is in charge of breakfast,” You tell the kids, though they are already running out the door, “And make sure it’s warm!” You call out after them.
You lay there for a minute, rubbing your eyes and grumbling under your breath while Seokmin lays next to you, propped up on his elbow contentedly, watching you wake up. “You’re such a cute little gremlin in the mornings,” He says, a big smile scrunching up his features.
You glare at him with pursed lips, “Not everyone wakes up looking like a movie star, Mr. Lee,” You retort, rolling to face away from him.
He snatches you up by the waist and pulls you across the bed into his chest, wrapping you up tightly and burying his nose in your hair, “Where do you think you’re going Mrs. Lee?”
You laugh, wiggling against him while he squeezes you tighter. “I didn’t realize you were so into my ‘morning gremlin’ look,” You tease him, feeling his hardening member against your backside, despite the innocence of the moment. It’s the morning. It happens. Often.
“I happen to think your tangled hair and morning breath is incredibly sexy,” He says and you tell him to get lost before tearing out of his arms and running toward the bathroom for a quick shower despite his protests.
When you get to the door, you turn around before entering, “I’ll forgive you for your rude commentary if you come in here and make it up to me,” You tell him with a smirk and it takes less than two seconds for Seokmin to come hauling ass into the bathroom, locking it behind you both knowing the kids won’t come back for at least another ten minutes.
Today is admittedly the perfect day for the carnival. The weather is amazing and there aren’t too many people here. The kids are buzzing with excitement as you walk up to the ticket booth and Seokmin purchases tickets as well as wristbands for the kids to go on as many rides as they want.
“Can we do rides first?” Your daughter asks, her younger brother copying her big puppy dog eyes so you’re effectively tag teamed.
Seokmin looks at you expectantly, letting you give the thumbs up, “As long as Daddy is the one who takes you on the tilt-a-whirl,” You concede, looking for the nearest trailer selling funnel cakes despite the fact that you haven’t even had lunch yet.
The kids bounce up and down, wrapping their arms around your waist before running off toward the one ride guaranteed to make you empty your stomach with their equally giddy father in tow. You watch as they choose their car and Seokmin spins it a few times, cranking the big metal wheel in the center, making the kids giggle uncontrollably.
There’s nothing more satisfying than getting to glimpse your husband in his natural element. Seokmin was made to be a father. It was he who first brought up the topic of children before you were even engaged, which had been a delightful surprise. He’d admitted that though he loved being a teacher and loved his students like his own, he wanted his own family.
Your son, though giggling still, looks a little green around the gills when he makes his way back over after they went on the ride not once, but twice. He tugs on your shirt, “Mommy, maybe we can go to the petting zoo?”
Laughing you take his hand and split ways with your husband and daughter, eagerly tearing off in the direction of the most death-defying carnival rides. Your son pulls you in the direction of the big tent across the way and straight over to the baby calves near the front.
“Baby cows! Can we get some food Mom?”
After buying two little cups full of pellets, you follow your boy around the petting zoo feeding everything from ducks, to sheep, to cows, and everything between. You snap pictures for Seokmin of his son’s identical cheesy grin with a laugh and after thirty minutes, you’re sure you both smell like you belong in a barn.
Your husband feels the need to confirm that.
“Whew!” He waves his hand dramatically, “You guys stink! Did you get in the pens with the animals or what?”
Your son launches into his arms and Seokmin maneuvers the energetic five year old up onto his shoulders with a bounce.
“Your daughter is a champ,” He grins proudly, pinching her cheek as she tries to wiggle away. “She went on the ring of fire, twice!”
You grimace and she giggles. “I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that. Anyone hungry?”
The three of their faces light up. Food is always a yes for them so it’s more of a habit to ask if anything. “We’ll get something light for lunch, ride more rides, get a bunch of junk food and head home…sound good?”
The kids nod eagerly until Seokmin leans in for a peck and all you hear is groaning of “Yuck” and “Ew! Mom, Dad! You’re embarrassing me!”
Apparently, nine years old is when that begins. Her brother just likes to mimic anything and everything she says so he’s giggling the whole time he’s ’protesting’ your PDA, tugging strands of his father’s hair.
Your family finds itself in the middle of food truck central and still somehow comes out with hotdogs and coca cola for everyone. There is such a thing as too many options. Especially when you’re the only solid decision maker in the house.
Food disappears in half the time it took to get it and the kids beg to play in the children’s area right next to the big section of picnic tables you’re sitting at. Deeming it close enough to keep a good eye on them, you say yes and they begin cleaning up their mess to run off and play.
“You’re looking lovelier than ever today, Mrs. Lee.”
You scrunch your nose, taking a napkin to the side of your son’s mouth before watching him run off to join his sister on the big inflatable slides nearby. “You’ve been staring at me all morning, what gives?”
Seokmin looks scandalously offended, “I can’t look at my own wife? Think she’s the most beautiful, intelligent, kind, giving, patient woman on earth?”
You stretch your legs out and cross them at the ankles, “What is it that you want so badly, my dear?”
“A baby.”
You lurch forward with his unexpected answer. He’s just sitting next to you smiling nervously, fiddling with his fingers. “What on earth brought this on?”
Your husband is always, always prepared. He comes equipped with an answer for everything, powerpoint presentation included. That's how you came to buy a puppy for the children last year at Christmas time. He’s usually unstoppable in his quests.
Another baby though…
“Ok, so you know Seungcheol just had his first and he kept showing me pictures in the teacher’s lounge and he was just so happy and then I came home and spent like six hours going through old pictures and videos of the kids and I just miss that stage so much and you’re such a great mom and I think we could do it again just one more time-”
You put a finger to his lips and his eyes nearly cross trying to look down at it.
“I knew you had been crying when you came to bed the other night,” You huffed out, “You spent like three hours reading bedtime stories and kept checking on the kids every five minutes.”
It would be a bold faced lie to say you’d never thought about having a third but those thoughts had dwindled the older your son got. He was starting kindergarten, your daughter halfway through elementary school, and it just seemed too hard to start all over again. You hadn’t even realized Seokmin would consider it either.
“It’s ultimately your choice of course,” Seokmin interrupts your train of thought, eyes glancing over to where your kids come flying down the slide for the third time in a row and waving over to them happily, “I understand how much I’m asking of you but I thought well...it couldn’t hurt too much to at least ask.”
“We would have to convert the guest room into a nursery and move the kids' play space up to the loft. I’m working from home now so I’ll need my office and it would be a lot of work, honey.”
Seokmin’s face lights up because you’re not outright saying no.
“You don’t have to worry about anything baby. I will handle all of the renovations.”
“Baby, you have trouble putting together an Ikea bookshelf.”
He nods once. “Mingyu will handle all of the renovations.”
His cousin could be swindled into anything with the right motivation. Another baby in the family to keep Grandma off of his back for a little while longer would suffice. Hell, Mingyu would build Seokmin an entirely new house if it kept Grandma out of his hair for a while. She scared off the last two girlfriends with marriage and baby talk already.
“Also, those instructions are Swedish, give me a little bit of a break.”
You look at him with narrowed eyes. Were you really doing this again?
Growing a big round belly, indigestion, morning sickness, stretch marks, sleepless nights, breastfeeding, messy high chairs, diaper blowouts, potty training, all the mess of parenthood and child rearing all over again.
“Every. Dirty. Diaper…”
Seokmin breaks out into the brightest grin you’ve witnessed to date and wraps you in his arms. “Every dirty diaper. Every time they wake up in the middle of the night. All the laundry and tiny onesie organizing. Bottle washing. I’ve got you, baby.”
You chuckle at his excitement, rolling your forehead against his shoulder to see if it’ll shake things up and remind you what you’re getting yourself into. No such luck. All you are seeing is a third miniature version of your husband and a smile surfaces.
“What if we forget what we’re doing?”
Your husband scoffs, leaning back against the picnic table with his hand around your shoulders, “We practically wrote the parenting handbook, baby. There’s nothing to worry about.”
You stiffen in his hold, “Your son just went down the slide...standing.”
Seokmin jumps up, “Shit! Shit! I’m going! I got it!”
He’s already speed walking toward the slide when he turns around with wide eyes and calls back to you, “This changes nothing! No take backs! We’re making another baby!”
You look around in embarrassment at his outburst meeting a few curious eyes and a little laughter before ducking your head. So, the parenting handbook is still being written...but that just means there is space to add a whole lot more.
SVT M.List | Main M.List
→ Please do NOT copy, repost, or translate, any of my works here on tumblr or on any other platforms! All stories are copyrighted, Bubblebeom, 2020. ©️
#kwritersworldnet#kpopuniversenet#kdiarynet#caratwritersclub#svt fanfic#seventeen fanfic#seokmin fanfic#dokyeom fanfic#dk fanfic#lee seokmin fanfic#kpop fanfic#seokmin x reader#svt x reader#seokmin fluff#svt fluff#lana writes
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‘Willow’ Cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto Didn’t Know Taylor Swift Had a New Album, Either
By: Claire Shaffer for Rolling Stone
Date: December 14th 2020
When award-winning cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto started working on the video for “Willow” with Taylor Swift in November, he didn’t know that it was a part of her new surprise album, Evermore.
“I thought maybe it was a video for the previous album. I didn’t even know what the song was at our first meeting.”
Prieto wasn’t the only one in the dark about the new record; Swift dropped Evermore last week with a very similar rollout to her previous LP Folklore, complete with a self-directed music video released at midnight along with the album: “Willow.” The video serves as a narrative continuation of the story in the “Cardigan” music video — which Prieto also worked on — featuring a ton of visual references to tracks from Folklore.
As with the “Cardigan” video, Swift, Prieto and the production team not only had to keep the shoot under wraps, but also find innovative ways to film the project under Covid-19 safety protocols without endangering the lives of the crew. Prieto spoke to Rolling Stone about the production this time around, and how the team brought Swift’s witchy vision for “Willow” to life.
How did the “Willow” shoot differ from “Cardigan”? It looks like you guys were able to have other actors on set this time around, but how did that change the safety measures you had to follow?
It was still very, very strict. A big part of it was the whole testing protocols, which we also did last time. But when we were doing this video, we knew more [about the virus], and the safety guidelines were more specific. We followed the same ones the DGA has done, that my union Local 600 has done, SAG — they’ve all put in place these protocols that we did follow, and were very careful about it.
For instance, in the scene with the choreography around the tree and the clearing, you know, with a sort of dance around these magical orbs, there was a limit on how many actors and dancers we could have there. That was created by visual effects, actually — they added in more dancers. I think the actual number was 10 dancers when we were filming, and they all have masks on, actually. We can’t see their faces, and that’s partly because they have masks.
There’s only really one moment, in the cabin, where she’s in close contact with [another actor], with the man that she’s been missing at all these different moments. But, of course, both were tested, and they’d only take off their masks in the moment where we’re actually shooting. Everyone else would always wear masks on. And similar to last time, anybody who was in the immediate vicinity of the scene had to have a red wristband — it was all color-coded, in terms of who could be close to the scene and the actors. And certainly, it was very important to have not only a mask, but a face shield whenever we were anywhere close to Taylor or any of the other actors or dancers.
I still used the remote camera on a crane, so there wasn’t even a camera operator close to anybody. We were still following all the guidelines very closely, but now, it felt more relaxed in the sense that we have more information. We could just follow all these protocols. And we knew that we’d be safe because it was all pretty strict.
You mentioned last time that communication could sometimes be difficult on the “Cardigan” set because everyone had to kind of yell at each other or point to things since they couldn’t get in close proximity. Was Taylor able to be more hands-on in her directing this time around, like she was while you were shooting the music video for “The Man?”
That was still was the case — especially when you have a mask and a face shield, and you’re six feet away, you have to be a little louder to be heard. So we did maintain that protocol. But she was still very involved. I would stay at my monitor at the DIT [digital imaging technician] station, because it was the best image, but everyone would all be kind of looking at it from a distance, from six feet away.
But there was one moment that was unforgettable. And she actually has mentioned it, which was, just as we were starting to film on November 7th, we got the news of the election result. We were both looking at the monitor at the DIT station, and she got a text alert or something like that. Obviously, at that moment, we were all working on the video, but in the back of our minds we’re all like, OK, what’s gonna happen? And she was the only one who could actually look at her phone, because in fact, everybody had to relinquish their phones in the beginning so that nobody would take photos of anything, except for a few people like myself, who could sometimes use our phone to take a photograph as reference. And I was only using it very, very sporadically for that sort of thing.
So Taylor ended up being the messenger for the election results on set.
Exactly. So, she’s next to me — six feet away, but she was next to me. And she got this text, and she showed it to me. So I learned of the result from her at that moment, and what I told her was, “I will never forget this moment,” both because it’s such a historically important moment and because she was the one who showed me this information, you know. That was pretty special. Yeah. I felt like celebrating and doing a little dance, but I didn’t — we’re professionals and we’re working and also, I wanted to be respectful of anybody who had voted differently. But it was a very incredible moment, and just the beginning of a three-day shoot that turned out to be an adventure.
This video makes so many references to songs on Folklore and older songs from Taylor’s discography, both obvious and hidden. How did she lay out her vision to you?
The first meeting was talking about the story and the ideas. I still didn’t know the song, but the first thing was figuring out that it’s a continuation of the previous one we did together. At that moment, she was still kind of developing her ideas and trying to figure out exactly what was going to happen — for example, the ending wasn’t quite clear yet. She knew that she wanted to finish again in the cabin and that [the man] would be there, right. But during that meeting, we decided to have them both leave the cabin. That was an idea that came to us as we were talking as a team.
And then we went back and forth — at first she thought it should be night outside because it’s always been night, and then she changed her mind and said it should be daytime, so we were like, OK, what does it look like out there? Is it just the limbo? And then Ethan Tobin, our production designer, said it should be this sort of autumn forest. She was very much appreciative of that and really listened to everybody’s ideas.
There was also discussion about that moment in the clearing, about whether it should be a bonfire or not. First of all, with production, we would have had to shoot it outside and that would have been very complicated. But also she felt that, even with special effects, it was not a good thing to show with all the wildfires going on in California. So she came up with the concept of some type of orbs, something more magical, and Ethan Tobin came up with a bunch of different reference photos for that. That was the way we developed these concepts — even with the willow tree, Ethan sent some images and ideas, and one of them had these magenta leaves on the ground, which was weird and magical. Taylor and I loved that. It was that kind of back-and-forth in the pre-production phase, before we even heard the music.
It’s amazing how you were able to pull this off under such complicated circumstances — communicating back-and-forth over Zoom, and then with the actual video shoot itself.
It’s pretty tricky to get such a complicated and really technically challenging shoot off the ground, but we planned it all beforehand. Ethan Tobin was working with his art director Simon Morgan on designing the sets over Zoom. So, it was all overhead plans, and then you have to go to the set and map it out. For that clearing scene, for instance, Simon Morgan and myself, and my gaffer Manny Tapia and my key grip Donald Reynolds, we went to the soundstage first and taped the space in the center where the magic orbs would be. And then we measured the distance to the background with the blue screen, and taped where all the trees would be, and then figured out where all the lighting would be for there and the carnival set — everything had to be very, very precise, and the distance had to all be worked out. It really helped when we were actually shooting, because it went very smoothly. So, that’s how we made it.
#Rolling Stone magazine#rodrigo prieto#willow#music video#taylor swift#evermore era#mv director#interview
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Here’s my (very late, sorry 😓) contribution to the @dualrainbow Pride event. Thank you To_Dragons for helping me edit.
Ships: Montagne/Blitz, Lion/Doc, Valkyrie/Finka and Castle/Maverick
The Pride Festival
The Austin Texas Pride Festival was held on a hot, sunny afternoon, and it smelled of fair food, sunscreen and energy. It was colorful, and bright, mrainbows everywhere, adorning stalls, signs and, of course, people.
To the European operators who had been to Pride events before, it was not only loud, but bold. From the outfits, that ranged from simple rainbow wristbands to full on outrageous outfits (or just a jockstrap), to the signs and stalls and performance stages. Couples were embracing, kissing and making out openly and passionately, without shame or guilt, not only couples but the rare poly groups, finally able to carry on with open affections and taking full advantage. The atmosphere was infectious. It had already claimed Maverick and Castle, who walked very close to each other -despite the heat- hands in each other’s back pockets. They also were very unrestrained with the kissing.
And Montagne thought that he and Blitz could be overly affectionate. But then he was still waiting for his lover to meet them there. He had flown out on his own specifically for this.
Their group included the aforementioned Castle and Maverick, Valkyrie, Finka, himself, Lion and Doc.
They had traveled from Fort Polk, Louisiana, where they, that being the FBI SWAT, SEALs and GIGN, and one tagalong (at her vehement request) Finka, were doing training with the U.S. Army rangers stationed there. After two weeks of a field exercise in muggy swamplands, their Pride group had been excited to go somewhere dry, but unfortunately Houston did not live up to the Texas desert stereotypes; it was almost as humid as Fort Polk. But at least here there was civilization. And Montagne himself was excited to finally see Blitz.
“Schatz!”
Speaking of whom, he was charging at them, looking very much the part of a Pride attendee. He caught his lover in his arms, swinging him around once, despite the soreness from training, then dipped him into a deep kiss. that gained the awe and cheers of not only from some in their own group, but several onlooking strangers as well.
When they finally parted , Lion muttered, “They’re acting like they haven’t seen each other in a year.”
The couple ignored him as Blitz held Monty out in arms length to appraise his outfit. He tutted, “Not to live up to the stereotype, Schatz, but what are you wearing?”
Montagne looked down at himself. He was wearing a lightweight button down with rolled up sleeves, dark trousers and shined shoes, nothing offensive, if a bit formal compared to everyone else, but the reason was important.
Blitz himself was dressed the complete opposite, wearing a loose stringer tanktop that exposed his toned shoulders and even his pecs when he moved just right. Jean cutoff shorts, sneakers with colorful laces, large sunglasses, a backwards ball cap, wristbands: every article of clothing was either rainbow colored, or had an inclusive pride flag adorning it.
“Euh… what’s wrong with it?
“If it were any other day, nothing,” Blitz said. “You look sharp and sexy as ever. But this is Pride, American Pride, ja? Look around.”
Almost everyone was wearing Pride merchandise, had flags draped on their shoulders, or had face paint of various LGBTQ+ symbols, from obvious t more subtle. The bolder were the ones wearing much more and the even bolder much less.
Blitz grabbed his hand, “Come, we’re fixing this.”
“Aren’t we a little old for…”
“Psst, nein. This will be fun, ja? To dress up as we please, get swept up in the atmosphere.”
“We can already dress as we please.”
“I mean colorful, and silly, no fashion rules to hold us back. Come on!”
With that Blitz dragged him off, leaving the rest in their wake.
~
“Well,” Finka chuckled. “Hi to you too, Elias.”
“Those two are disgusting,” Lion snickered. “How long have they been together? A year?”
“Two,” Finka said. “With no signs of slowing down.”
“Their honeymoon phase is going to last forever at this rate,” Valkyrie said.
“That explains why Gilles is going to…” Lion stopped himself, eyes wide.
“What is Gilles going to do?” Valkyrie was now very interested.
“Olivier, you wanted to show me something?” Doc, the amazing man he was, quickly interjected.
Had it been a few months ago, Lion would have been confused, but now Doc had bailed him out enough times during conversations that he immediately went, “Ah right, this way.”
“We’ll go with you,” Valkyrie smirked.
“Non, non, it's private,” Lion said.
“The good Catholic boy he is, he cannot share,” he said, steering Lion away before he could reveal too much.
Out of earshot, Lion mumbled, “How can you be nice while mocking me at the same time?” Lion was a bit prickly at the Catholic comment. It has always been a point of mockery for people outside the church.
“I could ask you the same. You have quite the talent for it. Far more than I can hope to achieve.”
“Most of the time I don’t mean to.”
“I know.” Doc’s tone softened into a reassuring one, giving his side a squeeze. “Otherwise we wouldn’t have found common ground, mon coeur,” he said. “People also tend not to question when a Catholic needs to do private things, no? With Islam it works quite well.”
Lion took a deep breath, but understood. It was nothing malicious. “Thank you. I didn’t want to be the one to fuck that all up.”
It had taken years to come to a mutual understanding, let alone to find a way to deal with their mutual attraction to one another. It was a rocky, long road, but here they were. Lion hoped one day they would be exactly like Blitz and Montagne, or even just Castle and Maverick.
Lion brushed his forefinger against Doc’s hand, tentatively seeking to hold it. Their relationship was so new, so fragile, like a baby bird or sugar glass, too easy to hurt or shatter. A hundred things, even things gentle or nice, could ruin a relationship, if you looked into it. And considering their history, before they got together… where just one off hand remark would destroy a truce they had established between each other, setting them at each other's throats once again. Lion never wanted to go back to those times. He’d do anything to keep it from degrading back.
Doc immediately took hold of his hand, as if he had been waiting to do so all day, giving a loving squeeze.
Warmth flooded Lion, he felt a giant stupid grin spreading across his face. It was almost too much, as he felt pricks in his eyes, as he squeezed back. He glanced sideways at Doc, finding him gently smiling, mellow as always when he was content. He wanted nothing more than to sweep him up and kiss him fiercely, but maybe then it’d be too much. He’d settle for this for now.
After browsing a couple stalls, he remembered something. What did the relationship advice he found on that one website say? That he should always seek to compliment and let someone know how much their actions mean to him, so he rubbed the back of his neck, trying to find the right words.
“You know,” Lion said, barely able to be heard over the crowd. “I’m so glad you’re willing to hold my hand.”
“Willing? I want to,” Doc corrected, bringing it to his lips and kissing his knuckles.
Lion smile only grew wider, and he had to look away as red creeped from his ears to his cheeks now. “J’taime.”
“J’taime.”
The warm fuzzy feeling in his chest threatened to burst, helped along by with the anxiety, the pervasive fear that this was about to be ripped from him at any moment.
They grabbed something to eat and sat down on a bench. If American food was considered greasy, their fair food was simply lard on a plate, with maybe some sugar or ketchup for seasoning. They commented on this to each other, when something caught Lion’s eye. There were older women and a couple of men wearing t-shirts, that said “free mom hugs.” (the men’s shirts said ‘dad’) As implied, they hugged everyone who came up to them. Some hugs were light and quick, and some deep and heartfelt, lasting many minutes. Lion’s eyes followed one of them until he came upon a group of them, holding signs, the same message written on them.
“Is that what I think?”
“Hmm?” Doc looked up. “Ah, probably. Hold on.”
To Lion's horror, his fellow frenchman asked a nearby American who they were; the man explaining with a bright smile that they were a charity organization that helped LGBTQ+ youth, and they gave out hugs - of course -, for any who had been rejected by their families for their sexuality.
Small talk ensued, in which Lion was only half-participating in as he ate, and when the man finally left, Doc nudged his side.
“You’ve been glancing at them this whole time. Go on, go talk to them.”
“I don’t need a hug.”
Doc tsked, “That’s a lie.”
“Huh?”
“If anyone needs a hug from a father figure, it is you, no?”
“I…” Lion paused then shook his head. “No, I’m over it, I put it behind me. It happened over a decade ago, after all.”
Doc raised an eyebrow, one of his infuriatingly knowing smiles tugging at his lips.
“They are for this who were disowned for being homosexual, Gustave. I was not...”
“And your father would have accepted you being with another man? Or is it only teens getting their girlfriends pregnant that he takes moral issue with?”
Lion didn’t have an answer for him. Well he did, just not a verbal one. There were so many reasons his father wanted nothing to do with him.
“I’m over it,” he repeated, but this time with less conviction.
“Then it would be of no consequence,” Doc said, squeezing his hand. “Go on.”
It was an awkward walk to approach them. He had to remind himself he was a soldier, he had faced death multiple times, fought against some of the most dangerous people in the world and this- This was just a civilian man at a pride event. Much older than him, sure, with a kind face and beard. But he realized as his step grew increasing hesitant that it wasn’t the human he was afraid of, but his soul, and what it could do to his own with just a few brash words.
What was he even going to say? “Hey I saw your sign, my dad hates me, can I get a hug?” That was ridiculous. Maybe lean into the role this man was offering to play, “Sorry dad, I was a fuck up, I can't change?" Or… "sorry you were not capable of loving me the way I am?" Both sounded completely rude to say to a stranger.
But as he approached, the older man met his eye, and there was no need for questions, nor words. The dad only smiled at him and opened his arms.
Lion found himself in the other man’s embrace before he even realized, hugging him as if his life depended on it. The older man matched his energy, a hand on the back of his head as if Lion really was his own child. Time seemed to stretch on and on; Lion had been anticipating a quick hug, just a little taste of what he got so envious of every time he saw someone have a loving moment with their parent, but no, his body refused to let go and so did this stranger. This stranger who held onto him with a fatherly patience Lion once thought only existed in fantasy.
The lump growing in his throat ached. He tried swallowing it down, but it only made it worse.
He shouldn’t have done this. He thought he was over it, yet it hurt, it hurt so fucking much…!
He wanted to run, he wanted to stay, he wanted…
“It’s alright to cry,” the man whispered. “I got you.”
“My real father disowned me.” Lion wasn’t proud of how strangled his voice sounded, or how he let some tears escape.
“I’m so sorry, son,” the man replied, rubbing his back gently. “You didn’t deserve that.”
“I did.”
“No, you didn’t. Nobody does.”
“I never could give him a reason to love me.”
“Children don’t need to give a reason. They’re supposed to be loved by their parents, no matter what mistakes they made, real or imagined. You deserve to be loved.”
Lion was biting the inside of his cheek, trying to will away the need to sob. This was a happy moment, a validating moment, with kind words, and warmth, why did it hurt so much then? His fingers clutched at the man’s shirt, as he gently rocked them. It didn’t feel infantilizing, it felt relieving, needed, like a hole finally being filled.
“You can cry, you know,” the man whispered again. “Emotions are made to be expressed. You don’t have to be strong, not here, not with me. I know you’re hurting, Don’t worry, I’m here.”
A choked sob escaped, and Lion pressed his face into the man's shoulder. “There you go, let it out, I’m proud of you.”
There was no coming back from that. He broke down, and it was ugly.
Lion sobbed into his arms, all rsesemblance of control disappearing, but the father held him through it all. It lasted way longer than Lion thought possible, but they eventually subsided, and he was still being held as he calmed down. When he felt strong enough to break the embrace, he was met with a gentle, fatherly smile.
“Do you feel better?”
“Oui.. yes, thank you,” he wiped his face with his own shirt. “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
“You don’t have to thank me,” the manhe said. “I’m just doing what fathers were meant to do.”
“Merci.”
They talked for a little while after. About what happened with his father, his family, himself. The cynical side of him expected them to reveal their ulterior motive, asking him for charity donations, to attend a church service, or even a cult, but they didn’t offer him any flyers or business cards, just warm words... water and tissues. At least he wasn’t the first grown man to cry like this in their arms. They were genuinely good people.
Doc had been waiting patiently for him on the bench, and stood up to embrace him and kiss his cheek upon his return. “How do you feel?”
“Drained,” he said. Then he added, “Relieved. I guess you were…” he caught himself. “No, you were completely right.”
“I’m glad you went then, mon coeur.”
Lion needed a smoke. Before got to know him, Lion would have assumed the doctor was too high and mighty for a nicotine fix, but then found out he was a man in a high stress job like the rest of them, and didn’t judge. Except on the mandatory substance abuse powerpoints they all had to sit through every few months.
He lit up, drawing the smoke in and letting it mellow him out. Every so often he would think back and a few more tears would leak out.
He wiped his eyes with his thumb. “You know why I was so happy that you took my hand?”
“Non,” Doc said, rubbing his back. “But please tell me.”
“I was at the store with my mother and father,” he said. “I was just following along, and I see my mother offer her hand to hold, you know, this gesture…”
He made it. Doc patiently nodded.
“Well I was nearest to her, I think. I was so happy, I remember feeling loved, all warm, because my mama wanted to hold my hand.”
He paused, rubbing the back of his neck.
“Go on, I’m listening.”
Lion took a deep breath. His voice shuddered, “She let go, non.. she threw my hand away from her, in utter disgust. As if I were disgusting. She snapped, ‘I don’t want your hand.’”
Lion ducked his head. “It was a small thing, yes, but it hurt, it hurt so much. Turned out she wanted my father’s hand, not her son’s, not mine.”
It was a few beats later before Doc said, “How old were you?”
“Four, maybe five,” Lion said. “I hate that feeling, those moments where you finally feel happy and loved, and the next second someone shatters it completely. Despair is a good word for it, I think.”
“How often did these types of things happen?”
“Plenty, I was a disgusting child, after all.”
“No,” Doc said. “She was just… cruel.”
Lion huffed, not a wry laugh, just disbelieving. “You’re not going to tell me that she tried her best?”
“Did she?”
“I… I don’t know…”
“Then I think not,” Doc said softly, cupping Lion’s cheek. He leaned into the warmth.
"I still get this horrible… fear when I want to take someone’s hand, or show any affection. So I usually don’t.”
“I wouldn’t do that to you, mon cher. And if I ever make you feel the way your mother did, I want you to tell me.”
Lion nodded, looking down, not entirely sure if he would. Doc tilted his head back up. “Hey, I mean it.”
Lion took his hand and almost went for a kiss, but the deep moment was interrupted by Blitz and Monty approaching. Lion quickly turned away so neither of the two could see his red puffy eyes, but he did see Monty was wearing a stringer tanktop, tie dyed rainbow, and adorned with rainbows in body paint and a look of subdued embarrassment any time Elias had his back turned. Blitz was going a bit overboard on this look.
“Have you seen Meghan?” Blitz said, “unless you have a bag?”
Doc pointed them into the right direction, as Lion quickly drank his water.
“Olivier, are you okay?”
“He just needs some alone time with me,” Doc saved him. Again.
The pair offered their sympathies to Lion (much to his annoyance) and wandered off to find the two women.
“Don’t you ever dress me up that garishly,” Lion snickered.
“Please, mon coeur, I have taste,” Doc said, before grabbing his knee and squeezing, voice now whispering in his ear. “Besides, I prefer you out of your clothes.”
He nipped his earlobe before Lion could exasperate out his name, earning a yelp instead.
Any semblance of protocol melted into genuine, unmasked joy just to be in each other’s company, in a welcoming space where they could be open about themselves Gustave himself was intent on kissing his lover better.
~
Finka and Valkyrie had been watching a stage performance when Blitz appeared at Valkyrie’s side, grinning, as usual, and... now covered in glitter?
“Meghan, can we borrow your purse?”
“Huh?”
“I don’t want to have to carry around Gilles’s shirt all day.”
Valkyrie turned fully to see Montagne, who had trailed in after him, no longer wearing his tasteful, understated ensemble, but had been attacked by rainbows and what looked to be the same shimmer bomb that Blitz must have been caught in.
“No, you’re going to get glitter in it,” Valkyrie frowned.
“Please? I’ll clean it out for you myself.”
“Glitter?” Finka said, turning around. “We have to ride back with your boyfriend, and you wore glitt-”
Finka must have caught sight of Montagne’s giant pecs escaping the too small, flimsy shirt, because she turned bright red and turned back to stare very intently at the performer.
All Valkyrie herself could think was ’damn Montagne is strong and it shows’, but that was it, of course. Her girlfriend however was bi, with a particular weakness for large people with muscles.
“Och, I almost forgot,” Blitz said cheekily. “You have any sunscreen? Gilles wasn’t prepared for this outfit.”
“I don’t think any of us were prepared,” Finka snipped, still keeping Montagne out of her line of sight. She pulled out a sunblock bottle from her cargo pocket and tossed it over.
“You alright there, Lera?” Blitz asked as he caught it.
“I’m fine, it's just hot,” she replied, still avoiding eye contact, “The weather, I mean.”
Blitz grinned, “He is hot, isn’t he?”
“Mon cher…” Montagne groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Just…”
Meghan clapped her hands, “Okay, go away, go be gay somewhere else. We have enough that of our own over here.”
Blitz ignored her, looking at Finka with a grin, “What do you think of us getting temporary hair color? I was thinking of dyeing our hair rainbow.”
“Well, you’ve gone this far,” Finka said, pointedly staring at Blitz’s eyes. “Might as well go full golubok.”
“Hah, ja, I like the way you think, I…”
“Here,” Meghan said, grabbing Gilles’s shirt from Blitz’s hands and stuffing it into her purse. “Go dye your hair now. Go on.”
“Alright, all right.” Blitz grinned, holding up his hands and going. Montagne sighed deeply, a twitch working its way through his cheek before following. Odd, but not her problem. She had someone much more important to worry about.
“You’re into muscles, huh?”
“You know I am,” Finka said sheepishly. “Sorry, I just wasn’t expecting that.”
Valkyrie laughed, “It’s fine, he got great boobs.” That caused Finka to snort. “You know, for a man.”
Finka laughed longer than she expected, but it was always nice when her girlfriend had one of her genuine laughs.
“It's always nice to see real muscles,” Finka said. “Real ones, from being big and strong, and healthy.”
“Oh, you mean some like mine?” She flexed, tattooed arms positively sexy as the bulged.
Finka’s eyes got a hungry glunt to them, she put her hands on Valkyrie’s arms, feeling the solidness beneath her fingers, “Yes, just like that.”
Finka kissed her girlfriend long and deep, and Valkyrie relished being able to do so in the open, without the anxiety of having some bigot laying eyes on them and causing a scene. It was annoying enough to deal with the old people (and the occasional man similarly aged man) she had never met before tsk at her for daring to have tattoos and being too buff, saying she was too pretty to mark herself up like that and ask how she was ever going to find a man looking like that. She had already broke the glass ceiling for women in something as prestigious and hardcore as the Navy fucking SEALs, but there were still so many in American society that were convinced that women existed to look pleasant to men, regardless of if said women even wanted a pet man or not.
The kiss was broken when Finka’s wristwatch timer went off, and her girlfriend quickly drank from her water bottle. It was such a practiced motion, Valkyrie wasn’t entirely convinced Lera was aware she was doing it, and it made her heart ache. When she was finished, she wrapped her arm around her shoulders, pressing a kiss to her temple.
Later they were browsing stalls, and Finka gravitated towards one that was selling pride flags and shirts, not only the standard colors for each identity group, but also the ones that represented multiple identities within the same flag. Finka fingered a nonbinary one with a heart in the bisexual colors on its center. Interesting choice.
“I’d love to see you wear one of these, babe.”
Finka smiled, but shook her head, “I don’t know…”
“Come on, I’m not trying to pull a Blitz on you, I’ll wear one with you.”
“And what am I going to do with it afterwards?”
“Keep it? We’re not in Russia, our base is in Greece, basically its own sovereign territory.”
“When you went through SEALs, there were dissenters that tried to prove your were lesbian so they could get you removed from the program, didn’t they?”
Valkyrie shrugged, “Yeah, but they failed.”
“The last thing that the Russian government wants is one of it most elite spetsnaz operatives in an international effort to be homosexual,” Finka explained. “Its not illegal, yet, but my existence could be considered ‘propaganda.’ I might not just be removed from Rainbow, or Spetsnaz, or the Russian military, I could be jailed.
“Ah.”
“You know what Russian prison is like? I might be able to survive the system if I wasn’t sick, but I am diseased. They’d deny me my medication, not let me stay hydrated or fed or exercised and I’ll...”
“Hey, hey,” Meghan said, quickly drawing Lera into a hug. “I’m sorry, it was just a silly idea.”
“I’m…” she took a deep breath then nodded. “Thank you.”
Meghan kissed her forehead, holding her hands. Lera usually had to be stressed, well, more stressed than usual, to go on such a downward spiral so quickly. Being at such a Pride event, probably, if anyone found out. Finka didn’t believe her own Rainbow Spetsnaz brothers to out her, they were too close, but it was still risky.
“The Soviet Union used to accept openly gay people, did you know that?”
Valkyrie shook her head.
“Not a lot of people do, even in Russia. It was the early years, of course, but they gave gays rights they never had before. But then, of course, the Soviets needed more bodies. Bodies for war, and bodies for work, and of course, they believed gays were the reason that their population wasn’t pumping out babies at a fast enough rate.”
“Oh.”
“It all comes down to child production, doesn’t it? You know this.”
“Unfortunately I do,” Valkyrie said. “Not even just governments but families too. When my grandma found out I was lesbian, she sobbed, crying about how she won’t have any grandbabies from my father’s line. Then she blamed my father for raising me too military, while blaming my mother for letting me compete in high level sports.” She adopted a shrill, tottering grandma voice, ‘Sports always turns girls into dykes. I wanted greatgrandbabies from every child! But you made her want to turn into a boy!”
“Blin.”
“Yeah, exactly.”
“My own parents alway knew I would like girls,” she said. “Enough to be surprised and confused when I brought home boyfriends that I was genuinely happy with. They cited my, uh, how you call it, boyishness? Well, I never felt comfortable in the woman’s role and they, knowing what my siblings and I had…, they didn’t really feel a need to pressure us to do anything but stay as healthy and active as possible.”
Meghan slowly began to realize this was turning into much more than a simple sharing of stories, and squeezed her hands in support.
“I never liked being…. I don’t know how to put this. I didn’t like the gendered language used for me. And I never felt when people were talking about women, they were talking about to me as well. Just as I thought the rules and expectations boys are taught growing up applied to me as well. You know, don’t cry, be tough, treat women with respect, fight those who try to push you around. Then I learned of this new concept a couple years ago, someone could be neither. I laughed at it at first but...”
“Lera…” Valkyrie said softly, with a loving smile. “Do you want me to use they/them for you?”
Her… their eyes lit up. “Would you? I mean, I’m not sure just yet, but I would like to try them out. “Non pun intended?”
“Hmm? Oh yes,” they were positively beaming. They were so beautiful.
“Just to see. I mean, I still have to use she and her at work but, just in private.”
“Of course, babe.”
Valkyrie cupped their face and kissed them deeply.
She ended up buying Finka something, a silver bracelet in the colored stones in the nonbinary colors as the setting. Something simple and discreet yet powerful where it mattered.
~~
Montagne had texted the couples to be on their way back to the group when Blitz finally realized he wasn’t just looking like a rainbow, but rather a discontented victim of a rainbow being sick.
“What’s wrong, Schatz?”
The giant man sighed, folding his arms over his chest.
“So… there is something wrong…?”
“If it were any other day, I wouldn’t have minded, but today…”
“Where else could you do this…?”
“It is not the location, it is the look!” he gestured down at himself. “The timing of it!”
“I don’t understand… ok, ja, I can see why I might have gotten a little carried away.”
Montagne raised a glitter encrusted eyebrow.
“Ok, completely carried away.”
“Mmm.”
“I’m sorry.”
“It is not the fun you were having that I have a problem with, I am used to your antics.”
Blitz went pink, and bashful. Like a puppy being scolded.
“And you know I love your antics, ge added quickly. But why of all days,” Gilles trailed off, pinching the bridge of his nose, and very nearly getting glitter in his eyes.
“Because… its Pride…”
“Yes, you’ve been saying this the whole time.”
“We can go wash it all off, I’m sorry,” Elias said, crestfallen as he moved past him towards the bathrooms.
Montagne caught him around the chest with his arm just as the rest of the group returned, “Non, it's fine… its fine. Perfection is not needed.”
He saw Doc and Loon quickly fumble for their phones, thankfully behind Blitz’s back. Once they nodded, he guided Blitz back to in front of him. “These past few years I’ve known you, you’ve done nothing but make me happy. Your antics, your jokes, your dedication, your downright sweetness, even the way you tap your helmet during exercises. Even before we started seeing each other, your smile would light up my heart and I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you.”
“Gilles…”
Gilles sank to one knee, pulling out a shining wedding ring from his pocket.
“Will you marry me?”
Elias had clapped his hands over his mouth, unable to process this. Their group, except for the GIGN of course, were surprised and estatic. Valkyrie even exclaimed “So that’s what you French bastards were hiding.”
Blitz still hadn’t answered, his eyes shining.
“Elias?”
“Ja! Natürlich sage ich ja, du großer Dummkopf!”
“I assume that's a…”
Blitz very nearly bowled him over to give him his acceptance kiss. He lifted him up as he stood, Elias straddling his hips and swung them around, a dazzling display as the glitter caught the sunshine.
“I’m sorry I got irritated, I just wanted this to go a certain way,” he breathed when their lips parted.
“Schatz, you could have proposed to me covered in mud and sweat.”
“I know,” he said. “But I still wanted to make an effort. I wanted to do it right.”
“You did,” he said. “Look at you, covered in rainbows, just to make me happy, ja?
“Mmm,” he said as Elias lowered himself back to the ground.
Blitz understood now. Gilles was a traditional romantic after all, wanting the candlelit dinners and picnics at the parks on Sundays. He wanted that to extend to his proposal but Blitz was too excited to have silly fun to notice.
“Hey,” he said. Despite the heat they couldn’t stop embracing. “I love you, you know that?”
“I love you too.”
“If you want,” he whispered. “We can still have your perfect proposal night.”
“Two proposals?”
“Ja, why not? I’ll still be excited.”
Gilles gave it a thought. “I’ll have to make things more romantic between us,” he murmured. “Just to throw you off so you don’t know when its coming.”
“Oooh,” Blitz said, draping his arms over Gilles’s shoulders. “I like the sound of that.”
They dazzled them with another sweeping, showstopping dipped kiss, because of course they did.
“I agree with Lion,” Finka laughed with a grin. “You two are disgusting.”
Blitz laughed into Gilles’s mouth, and flipped her off without looking away.
“Great, now those two set the standard for romantic proposals,” Maverick said.
“Does that mean we’re going to be competing now?” Castle said, perking up.
“I’ll win,” Valkyrie declared. “The rest of you might as well quit now..”
“Pfft, nah, man, if anyone’s winning that it's me.”
“You know, we French have romance in our blood,” Lion said. “I wouldn’t even have to try and I’d win.”
While they dissolved into bickering, the silent ones of their pairs all shared a look, realizing at once what their partners had implied.
Blitz and Monty still had yet to look up from their glitter makeout, oblivious to what they had just started.
#rainbow#rainbow 6 seige#rainbow 6#dualrainbow#montagne#blitz#Valkyrie#finka#lion#doc#lion/doc#finka/Valkyrie#monty/blitz#gay#nonbinary#coming out#pride#lgbtq#lesbian#bi
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Happy
Pairing: Rockstar!Bucky Barnes AU x Female Reader
Summary: You meet your favorite artist and get more than what you bargained for.
Warnings: Smut 18+ (consensual and protected sex, oral [male and female receiving], vaginal fingering, belly bulge, light degradation) dirty talk/language and recording. Mentions of drugs and alcohol and a tiny bit of angst.
Disclaimer: I don’t smoke regularly, so anything that has to do with drugs mentioned are techniques I’ve outweighed based on what I’ve been taught by different people. I don’t know which method works best nor am I encouraging the activity. It just came with this fic’s territory. It’s not that deep. You do you, boo.
Title Inspiration: “Happy” by The Maine
A/N: I might or might not have based some of this on true events. All I can say is, life is short, shoot your shot! Enjoy!
A/N #2: There’s a Part 2 now!
“You owe me.” Your friend next to you said for probably the third time this hour. You learned earlier in the day to tune her out. She had been saying that since you persuaded her to accompany you on the weekend long road trip to the neighboring state just so you could see your favorite band…again.
Growing up your parents thought this was just another phase, but as your teenaged years passed on by and you’re now well into adulthood, you’re still a bigger stan for The Avengers as ever.
The Avengers consisted of three members: Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes. Everyone had their take on each of the guys, Steve was the nice one, Sam was the goofy one and Bucky was the bad one. It was silly. They weren’t *NSYNC or The Backstreet Boys, but the fangirls will be fangirls.
Their music wasn’t exactly mainstream, but they did very well within in their genre’s scene. They graced the covers of a couple of magazines, garnered thousands, close to millions, of views and streams online, were featured on TV every now and then, toured around the globe, sold a bunch of records, even independently, but despite all that notoriety, they stayed true to their sound and that’s what kept you around as a fan.
That and the band’s front man Bucky Barnes.
He was hot – plain and simple. Ok, maybe he was just that to most, including your friend who couldn’t deny it, but you didn’t want to objectify the man. What their music had done to get you through the years, they were more than that. There was a level of respect there. You also didn’t buy into the “bad boy” gimmick the fans have dubbed for him. They were human beings just like the rest of us. Imagine being called something like that by the public? They just so happened to be fortunate enough to share their talent to the rest of the world.
“You’ve already seen them. I don’t know why you think you need to for what a tenth time?” She clearly wasn’t amused by your infatuation with the band, but she was still your friend and she would always be by your side through thick and thin even if she didn’t have the same taste in music as you. You loved her for that. Who else would stand for hours in a dark room full of loud, sweaty, smelly, rude even, and sometimes drunk people with no self-control for you? She really was the real MVP.
And she was right though. You’ve already seen The Avengers perform. It was probably more, but you’ve lost count. Whenever they’re in your city or two to four hours in the next one over, you loved this band alright!
You both were polar opposites standing next to each other in line waiting for the venue doors to open. She was calm and still, arms crossed with an unamused look on her face – she could almost play as the “mom that tagged along and didn’t want to be there” – but you knew she wasn’t really mad. There was a bar inside she could occupy herself at. You on the other hand were trying to contain your excitement. You tried your best to not fidget around in anticipation so much. You didn’t want to sweat off your makeup that you managed to apply on point or get an embarrassing stain on your clothes.
“It doesn’t matter,” was always the response you gave her, “their music means everything to me. I’ll always come out to support them.”
She playfully rolled her eyes and scoffed a bit at that. She wasn’t trying to knock you down. She knew you deeply liked the band, but she also knew another side of you, and she liked to pick at it. “Yeah that and you’re into Bucky,” she said and just flat out poked at the side of your breasts. The bra that you chose to purposely wear tonight gave your boobs an extra push and it didn’t go unnoticed by her. They were out there, tastefully, since you were hardly the flashy type.
“Okay, but who isn’t?” You flare back swatting her hand away and trying to shut her down. You didn’t need to have this conversation with her while other fans were around. You didn’t want to sound like a fangirl. You weren’t 13 anymore.
“Chill.” She said raising her hands up in surrender. She wasn’t going to fight you on this one again.
When the top of the hour hit, the roar of the crowd signaled the doors had opened. Once inside, you hit the line to the bathroom considering you’d been outside for a few hours. You didn’t just have to pee, but you needed to freshen up. Your cheeks were a bit flushed from standing in the heat. You dabbed lightly at your face with a small blotting sheet, sprayed a bit of body spray and finished putting every hair back into place before finding your friend, who was already at the bar.
You sported a 21 and up paper wristband that was handed at the entrance, however you weren’t planning on drinking. Usually you had one or two drinks at most, but you were assuming you would be the designated driver tonight. You just always flashed your ID to the bouncer for the wristband to emphasize that you were of age. Unfortunately, some bands have had a bad reputation of fooling around with underaged girls, who lied about it.
She held up her drink to you with a smile on her face. Yeah, you were going to be the one driving back to the hotel, but at least she’s happy. She tried to coax you into ordering a drink of your own, but you only shook your head at her nonsense and stood away from the crowd.
As an avid concert goer, you’ve been to enough shows that you’d been in every section of the crowd. Hell, you’ve even gone crowd surfing before! Plus, you couldn’t hang with those vicious and hormonal fans in the crowd anymore, so you learned to enjoy the show from the back with a full view.
The opening bands were decent. You’d never heard of them, one was probably local, but you always believed live music was just as good, if not, better than opposed to being recorded and remastered at a studio.
During their sets, you caved and bought a drink from the bar, hoping it’d help to pass the time before the headliners came on. Your friend was seemingly on her phone when a random guy approached you asking if he could buy you a drink. The house lights were on. Did he not see the can of beer in your hands? You politely declined his offer and further advances until he gave up and walked away.
“Girl. He was cute!” Your friend said shoving you lightly.
“I wasn’t interested,” you shrug and taking a swig of your drink.
“You’re not being fair,” she started and seeing that you weren’t catching on continued, “you can’t wait around hoping that one day Bucky will notice you. Honey, he came here to play a show and make money not look for a girlfriend.” Okay, maybe that was a bit harsh, bursting your bubble like that and all, but her intentions were good. Bucky Barnes just set the standards too high.
She wasn’t wrong. Guys like Bucky meet new people every day, met girls probably way prettier than you. The majority of their fans were female because let’s face it, the guys had sex appeal and you know what they say…sex sells.
Looking around the venue, you took in the kinds of girls you were going up against. There was a mixture of women of different backgrounds and sizes decked out in different styles, but the ones who won most of the time were the ones that looked good dressed in risqué clothing and heels. Some of them probably even wore less make-up than you or none at all. You couldn’t understand how it was effortless for some people.
It wasn’t that you had low self-esteem. You had your fair share of internal struggle, so sometimes your insecurity played its part. You had your good days and you had your bad days.
You decided upon wearing something simple that you would be comfortable in while still serving a look. And the only other significant thing you did to your make-up was add in a little more shimmer. Yeah you wanted to impress, not sell your soul to the devil.
“Okay, but I just really wasn’t interested,” you said again hoping she’d understand. She did, aware you wrestled with that demon in your head always taunting and ridiculing you that you could look better when you’re perfect just the way you are. With an added bonus of telling you that Bucky was missing out if he hasn’t noticed you already, she ordered another drink in time before the lights dimmed and ear-piercing screams erupted to alert that The Avengers finally took the stage to headline the show.
Like each of the shows you’d previously attended, they were amazing. They poured their hearts out with each beat and belt. Every lyric resonated with you so deeply. There was just so much raw emotion packed into their performance. The beauty of concerts was that they were designed to let you forget about all the bullshit happening in the world for a few hours. They were therapeutic for you.
If you hadn’t known any better, you’d say your friend secretly liked The Avengers’ music because she broke you out of your shell and had you swaying along with her to their songs…that or it was the alcohol taking over her. You didn’t fight it and you allowed yourself to let loose.
You tried to give each member equal attention, watching them as they played, but you couldn’t help but keep your eyes on Bucky the most. They were just trained on him. His cheeky smile and onstage presence were electric. The mere sight of him, all sweaty as his clothes stuck to his skin accentuating his toned body so well, all but had you shuffling trying to ease your body’s frustration and mind.
The only time you looked away was when you swore you thought he looked at you. Making eye contact with someone on stage was kind of awkward sometimes, but with him it was almost intimidating. Believing he was probably staring at the girl behind you, you downed the rest of your drink, pushed that thought away and tried to enjoy the rest of the show.
A full set of songs that showcased their albums and a two-song encore later, you were driving yourself and your buzzed friend back to your hotel room. It wasn’t that far from the venue, electing to stay within its vicinity. Upon entering the room, you tossed the shirt you bought at the merch booth on your bed before removing your leather jacket while she face-planted down on her bed, arms wide open, letting out an exaggerated sigh of relief. You couldn’t blame her. It felt great to rest right after standing on your feet for hours.
Your back rested against the headboard, you knocked your boots and socks off a while ago and had your bare feet up on your bed. You hadn’t changed out of the rest of your clothes or even wiped off your make-up yet. Instead, you sat there skimming through the timelines of your social media accounts while you waited for your friend to get out of the shower.
You had posted a few photos and videos of the night to your story, like your outfit, a few of you and your friend sightseeing, and of The Avengers’ set. You refreshed your timeline and noticed Bucky’s account pop up before everyone else that you followed. It’s no surprise that you were following them on social media. You liked seeing them share the personal moments of their lives. They used to be interactive with their fans. Bucky had even once commented on the old photo you had with the band years ago.
You met them after a show when they were just starting out with their first full-length album debuting that summer. Now, they hardly came out because all it took was one crazed fan to ruin it for everyone else. Their popularity sometimes deemed it unsafe for venues to let them stick around so late, restricting them from meeting their fans.
You click on Bucky’s account and go through his story. There was one of a view of the open road from their tour bus, a clip of a song he liked, a cryptic quote with a deep underlying meaning to it, him getting ready to go on stage and then of the show.
He had taken a photo of the crowd towards the end of the set, asked fans to tag themselves if they could, because the crowd was amazing…as if they didn’t say that in every town they played in.
His caption read: “Awesome crowd tonight! Probably our best show yet!” topped with how much he loved the city. Sometimes you wanted to reply to his posts like he was one of your friends, but then you second guessed yourself knowing he’d never see the message, or he would and just ignore it because he was busy. You knew it was a long shot, but what did you have to lose and what is it that they said these days? Shoot your shot.
You didn’t linger on the body of the message for too long, settling with a “Great show tonight! You guys were amazing as always! :)” hitting send and closing out the app thinking it would conceal any embarrassment that might come out of it. It was a ridiculous thought.
After surfing through the channels of the TV and picking at the food you had delivered to your room, your phone pinged. You saw that it was a notification from your social media account, but once your face unlocked the phone and the subject appeared, you nearly choked on the drink you were sipping on.
Bucky Barnes sent you a message.
Your heart pathetically started beating really fast. The phone almost slipped from your hands as you opened up the toxic app again to read what he said. He probably just sent you an emoji or something.
“Thanks for coming out.”
That was it. Okay, what did you except? A proposal. That was a fair response. He probably had some downtime and was able to reply to people. You couldn’t be that special…but thinking you could strike gold again, you started typing up a response.
“Of course! Will always be out there to support you guys! Hope the city treats you well and have a safe rest of the tour.” Yeah, that was a good one. You say to yourself thinking that would be the end of it…except it wasn’t.
“Appreciate it. You know of any good spots around here?”
Nope. You did not. Do you look up some recommendations for him? No, that’s too much. Great, you’re having a conversation with him through DMs and you can’t even genuinely contribute enough to hold it down.
“No, not really. I’m not from here actually. My friend and I drove here just to catch the show. Maybe YELP?” Shit. You just might’ve effectively got rid of him with turning him to the Internet instead.
“No way! That’s love. Good thinking.” They came through in separate text bubbles.
Why were guys so short? You couldn’t work with that. You thought about it for a while but came up with nothing, so you sent the sassy ‘girl sticking her hand out’ emoji as a reply. Damn, you were really bad at this.
Several minutes passed by and thinking you were really done with him; you got another message. It was Bucky again and he sent you a photo. It was from your own feed; the group photo of you and his band mates all those years ago.
“I thought I recognized you.” You sat up straight as you read that message over and over, eyes bugging. Thankful your friend was taking her sweet time in the bathroom, so she wouldn’t see you all strung up.
What? There’s no way. That was a long time ago. Your thoughts spiraled at his words that had you blushing. He’s pulling your chain.
“Impossible. That was forever ago!” I guess two could play this game then.
“I swear. You tripped and fell into my arms that night.”
What the hell? He actually remembered that? Yeah, that did indeed happen. You had been waiting outside surrounded by a bunch of other chatty girls, pushing and shoving their way to get to Bucky first. By the time he turned to you and you stepped forward, you lost your footing and fell straight onto him. He played it cool, but then you heard Sam, who was trapped in his own circle of girls, signing and taking pictures away, that Bucky has girls falling for him all the time.
“OMG. That was so embarrassing, and I was so awkward!” You couldn’t even speak to him when you managed to hold your own ground. You were young then, you thought you effectively put that behind you.
“You weren’t awkward! You were cute and that’s what has stuck with me since. One of the most memorable moments.”
Yup, he was definitely pulling your chain. While you were ecstatic that you were interacting with your favorite artist, you couldn’t help but wonder why you. He was a public figure and you were just a fan.
“Is this weird?” Came through as his next message after your silence.
Oh, no. I hope I didn’t offend him. You might as well tell it like it is and get it off your chest.
“I don’t know...just a bit. Probably because I’m just a fan? I feel like you should be careful. I mean I should be too…” You really did wonder though. How was it that people of his status were willing and freely open to people they barely knew only to get threatened of being leaked and blackmailed by their own nudes or messages? What made them trust the other party so easily with that kind of stuff? They couldn’t be that dumb. Well, you got your answer.
“I don’t think of you or anyone as just a fan, but you are right…at the same time I feel that you’re grounded enough and a good person that we can trust each other. If that makes sense.”
You weren’t sure if it did. He still didn’t really know you.
“Awe, well that’s really flattering. I totally understand that because that’s how I feel.” Did you? There was a pause between that message and the next that would come.
“What’s your cell?”
Really? It was just that easy? Oh, okay then. Nonetheless, you still gave him your number. The DMs stopped and transferred over to text messages. You have Bucky Barnes’ phone number. What fan fic were you living in? Shit like this doesn’t just happen, does it?
The texts between you and Bucky went back and forth, some playful and some slightly suggestive, but you were completely oblivious to them thinking that was just in his nature. You found out the band was staying in for the night before heading back out on the road tomorrow afternoon off to the next city. You didn’t realize you were holding your breath when you stared at his most recent text asking if you wanted to hang out. It was kind of late, but you didn’t get a guy like Bucky Barnes asking you to hang out on the regular.
“Are you alright?” Your friend questioned breaking your train of thoughts. You could see her from your peripheral that she was towel drying the ends of her hair even though you’re still staring at your phone.
“Bucky sent me a DM inviting me to his hotel room.” You answered in a stoic demeanor, but it felt really strange coming out of your mouth.
“Okay. How long was I in the shower?” Your friend asked with her hands on her hips wanting an explanation.
You recount the details and show her the messages you and Bucky had been sending to each other. She scrolled through each of them and you could see the look of apprehension forming on her face.
“I don’t know,” she said her words trailing before giving you a worried look, “shouldn’t you be the slightest bit concerned?”
“About?” You ask taking your phone back from her.
“All of this!” She exclaimed her arms outstretched in exasperation and not understanding why you were so blinded by Bucky. “You briefly met the guy, years ago might I add, and you decide it’s okay to meet him at his hotel room in a city you don’t even live in?”
Alright, it did raise a couple of red flags, but you were a consenting adult and you lived a life of being cautious and in fear a little too much you wanted to be reckless for at least one night.
“I know you’re only looking after me, but I got to go for it. You know I like him! Sure, I may not know him on a personal level, but I’m allowed to have some fun, right?” You try reasoning with her. Just how different was all this compared to what people around the world were already doing with each other anyways?
She was a bit skeptic before reluctantly agreeing and letting you go but with the promise from you to be careful, share your location and his room number with her just in case she needed to save you or come after him. You thanked her for understanding and assured her that you’d be back before check-out in the morning.
On the drive to his hotel room, you thought about how you always imagined the different scenarios of what it’d be like when you’d ever meet Bucky again. What things you’d do differently or say. How you’d make sure to not trip or do something to embarrass yourself the next time. How you’d be more confident.
Parking was a pain in any city’s downtown, you ended up having to pay for parking twice in one night. Not surprising to you, they stayed in a nice hotel. It wasn’t over-the-top nor was it fancy, but it was definitely clean and a slight step up than of what was in your budget for booking a room.
When you’re finally at his door, you wonder if you were going to be catfished. Were there other people in his room? Were you really that special? Fuck it. Was the final thought, putting an end to the rest, and knocked at his door.
You hear a click and sliding of the chain door unlock, then you’re face-to-face with Bucky. He’s dressed down in sweats and a zip-up hoodie. He shoots you a smile and steps aside for you to come inside, there wasn’t much light offered to illuminate the room other than the ones the lamps attached on the wall between the beds and what little the TV could provide.
“Oh, thank God. You’re real.” Motherfucker. Did you really just say that?
Bucky laughed at that and you explained, honest with him, that this whole thing just felt surreal. He nodded in agreement, offering to take your jacket from you and a drink. It was alcoholic. Not denying him, you accepted it and waited to see what he would do next.
You watch him sit down on the king-sized bed with his feet up, one foot over the other. You’re standing there next to the dresser that also served as a stand for the TV he was watching a random show on. Not sure what to do, you set the drink aside, kick off your boots, leaving them next to the luggage rack, and sit on the spot next to him with a considerable amount of distance between your bodies.
It’s quiet and you’re trying to hush the voices in your head. Did he really invite you to just watch TV with him? Is this awkward for him? Oh, no. He’s going to realize I’m boring.
You feel the bed shift and you see Bucky is leaning over, opposite of you, to grab something from the nightstand. You don’t see much of what he’s doing as your view was blocked by his large back. When he changes positions, a brief spark of a flame emits from his hands. Your eyes trail up from his hands to his lips and notice it was a blunt. You were pretty sure this was a non-smoking room, but it wasn’t under your name, so it didn’t really matter in the end.
Of course, he did that kind of stuff. It was part of the lifestyle to be exposed to it. He took a steady hit and you watched as he exhaled slowly, a cloud of smoke disappearing into the air in front of him.
“Want a hit?” He asked passing and offering you the blunt.
It’d been a while since you last smoked anything. You tried it a few times and even then, you didn’t think you did it right. You stare at the neatly rolled blunt in between his thumb and forefinger, but not too long as to not let it go to waste and ash up all over the bed.
You steadily take it from him and carefully attempt to take a puff. Wrong. That puff was anything but steady. Not realizing how close you were actually sitting next to Bucky, when you tried to exhale you ended up coughing – terribly. Bucky’s face scrunches up as he braces for the impact of white smoke to hit his face.
“Oh my God,” you say covering your mouth in disbelief, but it was a bad idea because your body didn’t like that, and you ended up coughing even harder.
“I’m so sorry,” you manage to get out in between your coughing fit while passing him back the blunt and trying your best to waft at the smoke. Well, if you thought your first encounter with Bucky was embarrassing. This had to take the cake. It wasn’t proper etiquette to blow smoke in the other person’s face.
He waves it off letting you know that it wasn’t a big deal before taking another hit. He even begins to give you a few pointers to inhale in increments, until you get used to the smoke. You don’t even notice the long looks Bucky gives you hit after hit. You take a second to let the smoke stay in your mouth before you give it a second inhale, letting it process through your system before gently exhaling. It was a lot of fucking steps to remember.
“Don’t try to put too much emphasis into the exhalation,” he said as he watches you take another hit, almost perfecting it and with each puff and pass being deeper and longer than the previous, “see, you’re getting the hang of it!” He whimsically lifts his hand up for a high-five that you softly pat in return, but he seizes that moment to hold your hand instead, intertwining his fingers with yours.
The more you breathed in the more your body started to relax. All the edge was taken off and you felt good. You and Bucky continued to pass the blunt, smoking whatever was left of it and what he had with him, as you told random bits of information about yourselves to one another. By now, you and Bucky were leaning on each other, backs against the headboard, the TV barely audible as it continued to play a rerun of whatever that was on earlier.
“You know I really do remember you?” He says causing you to turn your head to look down at him. He has his gaze fixed on your hands, his thumb barely grazing the back of your hand. He’d been playing with your hand, drawing random shapes on it.
“That’s hard for me to believe,” you answer back truthfully.
“Why?” Bucky questions while looking up at you. He was in a slouched position, his hoodie and shirt rising up, allowing you a thin glimpse of his skin, while you sat a little higher up than him.
You admired his handsome face, the crease lines in his forehead, the faint and not so faint marks scattered all around it, his wet lips that shone when he ran his tongue over them and the stubble that surrounded it all down to his adorable nose. Then there were those blue eyes that once put you in an overawe of intimidation, were now a bit alarming in a new sense. They were swirling and growing darker.
“You meet new people every day, Bucky. There’s no way that I could’ve been that unforgettable to you.” You just couldn’t wrap your mind around that. Staring at him, you tried to read him, but you were too faded to concentrate.
“But you were,” he tells you in a low voice just before you notice his eyes shut and he leans in to place an experimenting kiss to your lips. He pulls back to quietly study your expression, and when you don’t show any sign of disapproval, he goes in for another.
This time with added pressure, more emotion, Bucky pulls you down by the back of your neck and casually slips his tongue in your mouth the moment your lips parted. Your heart started racing when you reciprocated his kiss, trying to keep up with him. He definitely liked to dominate. You could even slightly taste the blunt you both shared moments ago as his tongue tangled with yours.
He slips off his hoodie leaving him in a dark gray shirt. Navigating his body over yours, he pulls you down into a more comfortable position. He’s cradling the side of your face as your lips continue to move one another, getting hungrier and hungrier.
The movements cause your top to ride up, exposing your midriff. His hands wander down to caress your skin before you feel his fingers grip at the waistline of your jeans. You instantly grab his hand and stop him. This was moving all too fast for you.
Bucky didn’t press on it for too long and slipped his fingers out, running his hand back up your side and this time underneath what your tank top was covering left of your upper body. His hand snuck back out and started tugging at the material bunched underneath your breasts. When your top was finally discarded to reveal your red bra, he latched onto your neck, kissing up along your jawline and nipping at your ear, the sound of his harsh breathing sent a tingle at the contact and shivers through your entire body.
You winced when you suddenly felt one of his hands at the back of your head, yanking a handful of your hair causing your head to snap back. It gave him more access and you closed your eyes letting the sharp pain run its course and turn into something pleasurable as he practically devoured your neck. You could feel him inhale deeply, getting high on you, and possibly the lingering aroma of the drugs, and sucking tiny splotches onto your skin then licking to soothe them.
He pushed aside the straps of your bra as his lips travelled down your shoulder before stopping at the curve of your breasts. You briefly opened your eyes to see him fixated on your chest. He uses both hands to grope them.
“You think I didn’t notice these from the stage?” He asks now looking at you, squeezing and releasing them before pulling your bra down, your breasts spilling out of the cups. He instantly latches his mouth onto a nipple, while the other hand digs in between the mattress and your back to unclasp the bra. His tongue swirled around the nub, teeth lightly grazing and sucking at the skin around it.
You run a hand through his hair, it was a little sweaty and you couldn’t blame him. It was getting hot; you could feel the heat radiating off of him. It became even more apparent after he got rid of his shirt and you feel his clammy skin on yours.
He pulls back, straddling your waist, most of his body weight falling on his knees, careful to not to crush you. Your hands cascaded down his chest and rested at his thighs. You gave them a shy squeeze, something you’ve always dreamed of doing and you were only slightly satisfied.
Bucky flashes you another smile before he braces one hand next to your head and leans back over to fish something off the nightstand. When he pulls his other hand back you notice he’s going through something on his phone. Curious, you look at his face trying to get another read at him, but this whole night was just full of surprises. He finally looks at you before speaking.
“Can I ask you something and you promise not to freak out?”
It depends.
“Yeah…” Who were you kidding? You’d gladly get on your knees for this man. He swooped in for another hard kiss, your mind turning into mush just before you could get anything else out.
“I think it’d be so hot if we recorded ourselves,” his face was so close to yours making sure that your focus was on his and only his. He must’ve felt you shift because he allowed more of his weight to drop; he was closing in on you and it was like you almost had no chance of escape. You weren’t going to lie. The way his weight was crushing you and sinking you deeper into the bed felt really nice. You were speechless. He wanted to record a sex tape with you.
“I travel so much,” he starts listing off reasons why while still cradling the side of your face again, your hand bracing his forearm, and starts kissing your face, “it gets really lonely being on the road.” At this point, he’s probably kissed every inch, “I’d love to have this...it’d be so much easier for me to come thinking about you.”
Motherfucker. His dreamy voice speaking those words into you did one hell of a number because you were aching down there plus the way his hips dragged at your still jean-clad lower region didn’t offer much relief.
“I-I don’t know,” you hesitate for a bit. What if his phone got hacked and the footage leaked?
“It’s just for me, baby. I swear,” he asks with hopeful eyes.
Sure, you could’ve had the strength to say no, but you were more than willing to be everything he desired. With your consent, he sealed it with another wild kiss. The magnitude of it setting you ablaze.
Bucky sets his phone back on the nightstand, propping it upright, camera on front face mode to display the both of you on its screen, and at the perfect angle he hits the red record button.
It’s showtime.
He revisits the mission of removing your pants and is this time successful. If you both weren’t so faded, he’d probably have an easier time taking them off, but they were tight, and you were grateful he didn’t clumsily break your ankles in the process. Chucking them somewhere off to the side, with his fingers, he traces the top pattern of the matching red lace panties you had on.
He let out a faint chuckle commenting on how red is his favorite color. Oh, you knew. You precisely chose this set just in case you got lucky. He plants kisses to your hip bones, his lips evading the area that cried out for his attention the most, and slithered down the bed, so he had your calves now placed over his shoulders.
Bucky laid gentle pecks on them and came back up to start nipping at your inner thighs, most likely leaving his mark there also, until you felt the tip of his nose hit your center. Your panties were definitely a deeper shade of red at this point. He pushed your panties to the side enough to get started.
You feel the pads of his fingers begin to rub circular motions at your clit. The first wave causing your hips to jolt involuntarily. You feel the smirk that formed on his face against your thigh at your body’s response.
“So sensitive,” he says pushing your hips back down to continue his task at hand, “and so wet,” he added while pulling his fingers away to examine your arousal that coated his long digits. You don’t take your eyes off him and you almost forget how to breathe when you watch his lips wrap around his fingers, noting his eyes closed and how his cheekbones become more prominent on an already perfect jawline as he sucked them off clean.
When Bucky opens his eyes, they’re darker than before, clouded with lust. He roughly yanked at your panties, still in his other hand, effectively tearing the overpriced garment. After giving it a few more tugs, it was long gone. Headfirst in between your legs, Bucky craved for more of you. He licked a broad strip, down up, to your clit. His tongue teased your folds before dipping inside you, the intrusion causing you to gasp. Your body withered around desperately searching for a path to release. Bucky kept at it, his nose nudging your clit with each plunge his tongue made.
Not denying you of a finish, he adds his fingers into the mix, curling them to find that spot. Noting that your eyes had closed sometime during the act, he stills, and you whine at the sudden halt. Your hand aimlessly reaches out to his face. When you find it, you open your eyes and pick your head up to find out why he had stopped. Bucky offers one of his hands for you to hold on to before speaking.
“Baby keep your eyes on me,” he orders, and his eyes don’t leave yours as his head lowers back down to your pulsing heat. You struggle to keep your eyes open and head from lolling back in ecstasy because you desperately wanted to come. Fuck, he was so talented.
The noises as a result of his onslaught were downright sinful. Bucky’s hips started to ground into the bed trying to relieve some friction of his own. His moans tremble across your entire body. There’s no warning when you come, and you don’t even give him a chance to escape your thighs that clamp around face. Not that Bucky minded, feeling you clench around his fingers as he drank in more of what your body had to offer. Bucky only then emerges when your legs fall limp against the bed.
He plops back down next to you, but as he does so, he pulls you on top of him. Your lips reattach themselves with his and the raw nature of tasting yourself on his lips drive you both mad. He hadn’t even wiped around his face, so you feel the wetness on his chin scrape across yours, staining you with your own arousal.
Your hands moved on their own from planting themselves on his firm chest then working their way down the ripples of his abs, through the trail of hair leading to the top of the waistband of his sweats. You tauntingly pulled the drawstring to loosen it before letting it go and instead grip him through the soft material. Bucky grumbled at your actions, but let you carry on.
You palmed him, getting a feel of how thick and long he was. Bucky was growing whiny with each passing move your hand made, he took matters into his own and grabbed your hand, shoving it into his pants. Your hand instinctively wraps around his hard cock and you give it a light squeeze and a few strokes, generating long drawn out moans to spew from Bucky’s mouth.
His cock felt even better with nothing separating you two. Bucky’s pants and boxers easily slide down his muscular legs, which spread apart to give you room. You maneuver south to lie on your stomach, still in between his legs, and grab his member that was curved resting at his stomach and bring it your face.
“Wait,” he says almost breathlessly. Your mouth is only inches away from the head already weeping profusely. He sits up to rest on his elbows and retrieves his phone from the nightstand. Oh.
“Okay, smile for me,” he directs, and you follow his lead before your tongue darts out at his slit and follow the ring around the tip of his cock. You pull back to savor his taste for a moment, your hands spreading the pre-cum around his shaft. Your strokes are then accompanied by the long licks you give at the sides and to his balls that your other hand had been playing with. Bucky’s head rests on his pillow so his other hand could rest on the back of your head and guide you down his length. Your mouth immediately started to water, but it made it easier for you to bob up and down. He let you move at your own pace for the most part. Bucky pushed your hair off to the side, away from your face to get a better view of the outline of his cock poking at the inside of your mouth. You let his cock drag across the inside of your cheeks a few times until it audibly popped out of your mouth.
“Fuck me. I knew you’d be perfect.” His words mixed with his incessant moans were like honey pouring into your ears. He loved the way your eyes looked directly at him through the camera lens when you come up with a long tantalizing lick to the underside of his cock and crawling back up to straddle him.
Bucky gets a good shot of your flushed face and breasts that had some of your drool combined with his pre-cum running down your body before dropping his phone beside him. He sits up causing you to fall back down at the other end of the bed. He picks out a condom from the nightstand and you watch as it rolls down the length of his cock. You bite your lip watching it twitch.
He’s on his knees, but sitting on the balls of his feet, you are lying down patiently waiting for him. He swipes his cock through the wetness of your pussy, prepping himself to slide in. He’s watching your reaction with each pass his dick makes. Your body is yearning for him to be inside of you, to hit that fucking spot over and over.
Just when you think he’s about to do it, he’s reaching over for that damn phone again. Out of habit, you cover your face with your hands. Not only showing the last shred of humility you had left, but also because you probably looked like a fucking bitch in heat.
Bucky pulls your hands away, he still has the phone in his hands, and he’s got it angled to playback from his point of view before he finally pushes into you. He’s big, much bigger than what you’ve experienced, you think you need a moment to adjust, but he never gives you that opportunity and you find that it doesn’t matter when he feels so good. Too good that you find it hard to breathe with each thrust he’s making because he’s hitting it so deep. You push your hands out in front of you to his lower abdomen and attempt to slow him down. Bucky shakes his head and knocks your hands out of the way.
You let out an abrupt yelp at his retaliation to your failed efforts in trying to stop him with a particularly harder and much forceful thrust. Instead, your hands grab fistfuls of the hotel bed’s white blankets and just let him have his way.
“So beautiful,” he says spreading you further then coming down on you to reclaim your lips with his. He rips your hands from their tight grips on the bed sheets to pin them down next to the sides of your head. You don’t care where his phone went, just happy to have both his hands on you. The skin-to-skin contact just hit different sometimes.
The kisses become so feral you start to feel a burn around your mouth from his stubble. Bucky rolls his hips into yours deliciously, a damn true artist, the rhythm he’s got going sends you just about over but never fully beyond the edge to prolong the climax.
Much to your dismay, Bucky withdraws away from you again, back into his previous position, a new idea popping into his wicked mind. With his hard cock still inside you, he slides his hands under your hips and hoists your lower half up towards him, resting your ass on his thighs, effectively bottoming out. You don’t hold back at the way that made you feel and let out an embarrassingly loud moan. He holds still for a second and you’re not quite sure why. You try to move by wiggling your hips, but he holds you still.
He’s staring at how close your bodies are, connected, he moves just the slightest. It causes your pussy to contract and your stomach to tighten up. He does it again in different intervals, his eyes surveying the entire thing. The next push is a little harder and when you see the devious smile breakthrough his face, he does it even more. The thrusts are much sharper and almost painful, but it quickly subsides when you feel the head of his cock probe at the right spot.
Bucky lifts your hips up higher, your back arching in bridge fashion you weren’t aware you could even do until he resumes his new pattern of thrusts again. This new position aided his cock in hitting your sweet spot a little better. He’s filming you again and resting one of his palms on your stomach. He’s not only watching, but he’s feeling the bulge in your belly from the distension caused by the jabs of his cock.
“That’s my girl,” he praised, continuing to pound into you, “you take this cock so well.” The sight boosts Bucky’s ego and for you it actually probably wasn’t a good thing, but you’d be damned the angle did so many wonders to you right now.
“You love watching your cock go deeper and deeper inside me, Bucky?” You ask trying to look up at him from that position. Where did that come from? Your words cause him to freeze momentarily, but you could still feel his cock throbbing inside of you. He liked that.
Another impish thought running through his head, Bucky pulls out, picking you up so you’re also knee-height with him, giving you another searing kiss, then he’s behind you. He gently pushes you down, you on your elbows, Bucky leans over behind you, his soaked cock sliding up your ass resting on the small of your back as he places his phone back on the nightstand in the same position it had been in the beginning.
You don’t dare look at the screen in front of you, so you look down until you feel Bucky enter your pussy once more from behind. Your head rises and it wasn’t due to the surging pleasure, but because Bucky uses your hair as a rope to bring your body upright with his.
He thrusts up into you while he mutters incoherent slurs and lewd noises into your ear. He peppers the side of your face with wet and uncalculated kisses, his hands massaging your breasts before one of them migrates down to cup your pussy. His fingers dip in and starts another assault to your clit. You’re already tethering off the edge and on the brink of succumbing to him, but he just knew when to let up and keep you starved for more.
“Look at you,” he says, using his other hand to turn your head to face the small screen, the numbers continuing to go up. “You’re such a fucking slut for my cock,” you don’t argue with him and instead moan his name. “You like watching yourself fuck this huge cock, don’t you?” You couldn’t lie to yourself anymore; watching the two of you was hot. Your uncontrollable moans now muffled into Bucky’s palm. And he just kept egging you on, “I know I do. It’s gonna remind me just how tight this fucking pussy is.” Damn him.
“You want to come, baby?” He asks, the speed of his fingers picking up a notch.
You pull down Bucky’s hand to respond, “Mmm, yes. Fuck! Please let me come, Bucky,” you don’t know what has possessed you, but it spurs the both of you on even more. Your next words do it for Bucky, “I want to come all over your cock,” and he’s immediately coming and spilling into the condom, still inside you, you feel his release pump through him. He’s biting your shoulder, some of his weight coming down on you, his thrusts becoming erratic, but one did the trick for you and you finally let go.
And what drives Bucky even more wild, is that you don’t stop. You keep rolling your hips into him, riding it all the way out. Bucky’s trying to hold on, with a bruising grip on your waist, his forehead resting on your back; the aftershock of his release proving too much. Your release pours out freely, you feel some of it slide down the inside of your thighs mixed with sweat.
You sag against Bucky, each of your body weight balancing against the other. You feel him scatter lazy kisses up your back and pull your face towards him to press one against your lips, moaning in satisfaction. He slowly pulls out of you with a low groan, your body feeling numb when you fall forward to lie down on the bed. Bucky discards of the condom and shuts his phone off before settling next to you.
He pushes the hair out of your face, and you, facedown, peek an eye open. He has a more than content look on his face, you notice his eyes were back to their normal color. He allows some time to pass for you both to calm down. Sleep wants to overcome your body, but it doesn’t when Bucky’s touch puts you on notice again. He runs his hand up and down your back. He’s insatiable, but he didn’t anticipate your comeback in the end and put him in a daze. He could get addicted to you.
“Is it weird if I fly you out to Brooklyn?” He said out of nowhere. Brooklyn was thousands of miles away from where you lived. He wanted to pay your way to see him again. It was such an outlandish request. You’re starting to regain a more balanced sense of perception and thought, and you ponder on this for a few seconds. “Never mind. You think it’s weird,” he says lifting the blanket over his head turning his back to you. You could tell he was just trying to be cute.
“Oh, come on! You caught me off guard. You can’t blame me!” You respond, but he doesn’t budge. You muster up enough strength to sit up to lean over the side of his body, resting your chin on the top of his shoulder, and try to grab at the blanket. You pull it over his head and see the lazy smile etched across his pretty face. All you do is return the smile and close your eyes, basking in the post-coital bliss.
“Stay for the night,” came as his last request and turning to lie on his back, wrapping his arms around you.
You don’t think about your car, that’s still parked nearby or care if the parking rate is probably going up by the hour and start eating at your bank account. You don’t think about how pissed your friend would be when she wakes up in the morning and you’re still not back in time. You just think about how tomorrow he’d be far away. You scoot up to give him one more kiss before laying your head to rest on him and make the best out of the present. Happy that you went with your gut on this one.
A/N: This could flop. At first, it was easy to write, but then the ending tripped me up. & while I have your attention, please let me know, anonymously or not, if there’s an interest in a Chase Collins fic? Charles Blackwood smut, anyone? Anyway, I hope this delivered! Thanks for reading!
#mrwinterr writes#bucky barnes#bucky barnes x reader#bucky barnes smut#bucky barnes x female reader#bucky barnes x y/n#bucky barnes x you#bucky barnes fanfic#sebastian stan imagine#sebastian stan fanfic#sebastian x reader#sebastian stan smut#sebastian stan x you#sebastian stan x y/n#marvel fic#rockstar!bucky barnes#rockstar!bucky#rockstar!au#happy
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Will you follow through if I fall for you?
Fandom : One Chicago
Word count : 3,485 words
Disclaimer
Previously on this fic : Part 1 🞂 Part 2 🞂 Part 3 🞂 Part 4 🞂 Part 5 🞂 Part 6 🞂 Part 7 🞂 Part 8 🞂 Part 9 🞂 Part 10
Part 11 (FIN)
Jay hangs out at Molly's after a good day at work. The bar is packed with familiar faces from Firehouse 51 and The Med. He sits down at a table with Hailey and Adam, talking about dull things, enjoying his drink.
"Jay, did you ever find out who sent you that box of chocolate on your birthday last month?" Hailey curiously asks him.
"Oh, you mean the one that you and Kim confiscated?" Jay teases her.
"Yeah, yeah, you wouldn't even open it if we didn't force you," Hailey rolls her eyes. "So, did you know who gave it to you?"
Jay's lips twitch with a barely-there smile, "Yeah, I did,"
"Who was it?" Adam asks nosily.
"A friend," Jay replies vaguely.
"You have friends other than us?" Hailey mocks him. "I'm shocked!"
"Hey, I'll have you know, I am a social butterfly. I got friends in many places," Jay points his finger at his coworkers who are busy laughing at him.
Adam sobers up from the laugh first and sees Kelly Severide approaching their table, "Hey, man!"
Kelly grins at Adam and Hailey, "Hey, guys!" before beckons to Jay, "Can I talk to you for a moment?"
Jay is confused but follows Kelly anyway to a quieter corner of the bar. He waits until Kelly starts to speak. "I'm not sure if you know this, but Y/N will be in town next week," Jay stiffens as he hears his ex's name, but Kelly continues as if he didn't see it. "I know that she made a big mistake, and you probably still hate her," Kelly opens his hands in a placating manner, ".. but I'm not trying to play sides here. It's just.. she asked me to give you this," Kelly pulls an envelope from his jacket pocket. "It's two tickets for their show at Soldier Field next week, including the backstage passes. You can do whatever you want with them, man. If you want to use them, she'll be thrilled. If you want to burn them, she'll understand," He hands the envelope to Jay, who hesitantly takes it. "She's scheduled to arrive on Friday night and supposedly stays at The Langham for the weekend. But she hinted that she will try to crash at my place," Kelly informs him further.
"Why are you telling me this? What do you expect me to do?" bemuses Jay.
"I'm not telling you to do anything. I understand that you have a hard time these past months. But I also know it was not easy for Y/N as well. This might be a chance for you to clear any niggling questions you have." Kelly pats Jay's shoulder before walks out of Molly's.
Jay slowly steps back to their table. Hailey immediately grills him, "What was that about?"
Jay shakes his head to answer his friend, "It's nothing important." He puts the envelope in his back pocket, trying to forget the conversation.
◢◤
The days sneak up on Jay. Without him knowing, it's already Saturday evening. He sits on a couch at home, staring at the envelope on the table, thinking about what he should do. He knows what he wants to do, but he is not sure if it's the right thing to do. Jay bounces his foot restlessly before he decides to call Will.
"Hey, what are you doing tonight?" Jay asks Will straight away once the call is connected.
Unbothered by Jay's rude manner, Will replies shortly, "Watching Netflix. Why?"
"I need you to go someplace with me," demands Jay.
"I'm on stand by. I cannot go too long or too far away from Med." Will explains.
"I'll drive you with sirens on if they call you. Please, Will?"
Will is never immune to his brother's pleadings, so naturally, he agrees. "Okay, then. When are you going to pick me up?"
"I'm leaving my place now. You go get ready," Jay grabs his keys and walks out to his car.
◢◤
Once Will sits comfortably in Jay's car, he begins to ask, "So, where are we going?"
"Soldier Field." he hears Jay's clipped reply. Will starts to put the pieces together when he remembers that alex&y/n playing there tonight. He tries to reconfirm his guess, "Isn't that where..."
"Yep," Jay curtly nods without leaving his gaze from the road.
Will raises his eyebrows, "So you're going to see her?"
"I don't know," Jay shrugs his reply.
Will confronts him further, "Is that why you brought me? To help you decide?"
"No, I asked you to come because I know you're a fan of Y/N and her music," Jay patiently explains his reason.
Will never admits that fact before, but his brother seems to catch it anyway. Jay always tenses up whenever someone mentions his ex's name. Thus Will thought it's wiser to leave him be. But this time, it's Jay who chose to bring it out.
"But I told you before, I won't go to see the show," Will tries to remind Jay. He wants Jay to understand that he is here for his brother.
Instead, Jay tells him, "I know. That's why I brought you."
Will sighs loudly, "You're so confusing."
Stopping at an intersection, Jay grins widely at Will, "Just enjoy it, man."
◢◤
The first time Jay opens the envelope is in front of an usher who stands by the entrance gate. He shows the tickets to him and lets the usher guides them to the Guest Check-In area.
"Where did you get those tickets? Did Y/N give you that?" Will asks Jay as they stand in front of the check-in booth. Jay simply ignores Will's interrogations.
"Hello, good evening. May I see your tickets and ID, please?" greets the young man behind the booth. Jay silently gives the tickets and his driving license to the man. He checks them for a moment then input something on a laptop in front of him. Soon he returns Jay's ID back along with two gold wristbands. "Here's your wristband. Please tighten it on your hand, so you don't lose it," He pulls out a colorful map and circles several spots as he details further, "You can access the Guest Area here, on the east side of VIP seats. To access the backstage, you need to go to the north side area and ask the officials there for the backstage entrance. Is there anything else I can do for you, Sir?"
"No, thank you." Jay folds the map and puts it in his back pocket.
The man smiles politely and bids them goodbye, "Have a good time, Mr. Halstead."
The sky looks clear, tints in beautiful orange as the sun just set. They quickly find the Guest Area and the VIP seats. The seats are on an elevated section, which definitely gets a better view of the stage. The stage is dark now, but Jay can see it's bustling with some preparation. The Guest Area looks inviting. It has a private bar and a few food stalls. "This is very nice," remarks Will as he takes in his surrounding. He almost sounds impressed until he remembers from whom Jay got the tickets. "Nope. I ain't falling for this stunt! Does she think these extravagant things could lead her back to you?" Will shakes his head and declares passionately. He sulks on his way to find a spot with the perfect view of the stage.
Smirking at Will's antic, Jay pacifies his brother, "I think she just wants us to have a good time,"
Before Will can respond, the stage suddenly lit up. Laser and neon lights shine blindingly. In front of the stage, the crowd starts to clap and yell excitedly. As the intro begins to play, Jay looks down at the sea of people below him, shouting Alex's and your name.
"What's up, Chicagooooooo!" Alex cheers as he shows up on the stage, then soon followed by you. The crowd goes even wilder. You and Alex open with the first song, jumping lightly to the beat. Between a gap to the second song, Alex greets the crowd. "Chicago! It's so good to be here tonight" He leaves the beat playing in the background. "It is even better to have my best friend here with me. Would you please make some noise for Y/N!" The crowd hoots loudly. You answer them with a grin and a quick wave. "I hope you're also having the best time with your friends. Or maybe even make new friends. So now, let's party!!" Alex puts the microphone down and begins to play the next song. You and Alex play together for about 30 minutes before Alex leaves the stage. You keep the crowds going with your songs and remixes.
"Is it just me, or she doesn't look like she's enjoying it?" Will yells at Jay's ear. The music is so loud, it's practically impossible to speak over the thumping beats and sing-along crowd. Jay also notices the same thing Will said. It was really subtle. The crowd probably won't see it. But since Jay solely pays his attention to you, he can see that you're looking a bit tired. After another 30 minutes passed, Alex comes back on stage as you go off.
Alex plays solo for about 45 minutes before you come back to the stage. They play together again for a few songs until Alex grabs the microphone, "This is our last ten minutes... We are alex&y/n. We hope you enjoyed our music tonight... You guys are fucking amazing! We love you!" The crowds shout back in response.
When they reach the outro, Alex helps you get up on the table before getting himself up. Both of you bow and send air kisses goodbye to the crowds. The confetti bursts on the stage as fireworks explode beautifully to the sky. Soon as the last note goes, Alex jumps down from the table and helps you down. The stage then goes completely dark again. The crowds start to break. Some move away slowly from the stage. Others decide to sit in front of the stage and wait for the next act.
Will nudges Jay and asks, "You're gonna use that backstage pass?"
"No. Let's just go home," Jay sounds certain, but his eyes don't leave the dark stage, as if he still can see you there.
"They are actually amazing," Will comments about the show as Jay drives him back to his place. "I mean, I know they sound good. But the show was apparently better. Thank you for taking me tonight, bro."
"You know you can talk to her, right? You don't have to avoid her for me," Jay tells his brother.
Will clasps his hand on Jay's shoulder. "I know. But you're my brother. She hurts you. I'm not ready to forgive her yet."
◢◤
After you get off the stage, it doesn't take long for the entourage to leave the venue. Alex is whining that he's hungry. The time just passed 11 PM, so you take them to one of your favorite late-night eateries in Chicago. You also pick this place because it's only three blocks from Kelly's home. Thus, once everyone is done eating, they drop you off at Kelly's before they go back to the hotel.
Kelly knows that you're coming, so he's not surprised when he hears knocks on his door at 1 AM. But you are the one who is surprised when you see some folks from Firehouse 51 there. You hang out with them, talking and laughing until almost dawn. Some of them decide to go home. Others prefer to catch a wink before leaving. The sleeping arrangement becomes a challenge when there are more people than available beds. You finally get to shut your eyes on Kelly's couch just as the sun rises.
The persistent knocks on the door wake you up from your slumber. Half asleep, you come to the door, expecting Sylvie or Joe coming with brunch since they chose to go home last night.
When the door is opened, you blink a few times, not trusting your eyes. Is that really.. "Jay?" you whisper cautiously, wondering if you're still dreaming.
"Hi, Y/N," Jay lets out a nervous smile. You stare at each other for a while, uncertain of what to say. Before Jay gestures to the door, "May I come in?"
"Uhm, yeah, sure. Please. Come in," You stammer as you open the door wider to let Jay in. When you remember that you're still in your sleepwear of a tank top and cotton shorts, you insecurely put on a sweatshirt from your duffel near the couch.
You see Jay looking around the living room. It isn't messy, but it isn't exactly pristine either. They did bare minimum clean-up before went to bed, but you still can see remnants of the get-together. "Did you sleep there?" Jay refers to the unmade couch.
You let out a small giggle as you walk to the kitchen to make coffees, "Drew a short stick on the sleeping arrangement,"
Jay laughs at you, "Why did you sleep on a couch when you have a heavenly bed at the Langham?"
You're a bit surprised that Jay knew where you should've stayed, "Huh, guess Kelly told you that?" The question feels a bit rhetorical, so you don't expect Jay to give any response. "Would you like a cup?" You offer Jay, gesturing to the brewing coffee when he follows you to the kitchen.
"Please," Jay nods then sits on the chair by the counter. Both of you stay silent as you prepare the coffee. You wonder why Jay is here, but you are afraid to ask. When the coffee's brewed, you fix Jay's cup first and hand it to him before filling yours. "Thanks," Jay says as he accepts the cup. You stay on the other side of the counter as you sip into your cup. You feel like saying something, but you don't know what. Should you ask what's Jay doing here? Would Jay accept if you apologize to him again?
After a few awkward seconds, Jay speaks first. "Your show last night was great. Even got Will to jump and dance,"
That actually surprises you, "You came?"
"Of course we did. Will is a fan of yours." He says like it's a fact. Like it's the only reason he came.
You scoff your disagreement, "Right, I doubt that Will is a fan of me,"
"Will likes your music." Jay differs.
"Now that is something I can believe. But I'm pretty sure Will still hates me," you chuckle despairingly.
Jay takes his time to counter your claim, "Will doesn't hate you. He just... felt like he should. Because of me."
"What about you?" you hesitantly ask. "I understand if you're still mad at me. I just wish I can do something to fix it.."
When Jay gives no answer, you kick yourself in your head, thinking you've really screwed this up.
"When are you leaving?" Jay asks instead after a minute pause. You can hear the imply "again" at the end of the question.
Softly sigh to your coffee cup, you reply, "Monday morning." You see Jay nodding as a sign that he hears you, but he doesn't say anything. "I... might come back here in about three months?" It was intended as information, but your apprehensive voice made it sound like you're asking for his permission instead of letting him know.
Jay tilts his head, looking a bit curious, "For work?"
You take a deep breath before saying, "For you." Your gaze doesn't waver from his face. "If you can somehow forgive me and give me a second chance?" Jay locks eyes on you. His lips stay closed, but his eyes demand more explanation.
"I... realized that what I feel about you is a real deal. These past 8 months, I've been running away, trying to distract myself from my regret. I went back to Amsterdam, thinking I was gonna go home, but instead, it felt like I was walking away from home..."
"But you got your family, friends there. Your job is there. That's the reason you gave me when you left." Jay points out. He doesn't raise his voice, but you hear his upset loudly.
"Yes, they are. But I was too blind to see that I got similar things here as well. That I also have family and friends here.. Amsterdam doesn't feel the same anymore, with the fact that I left my heart here..."
Jay looks doubtful over your words. "I don't understand why you want to do that. How about your work? You're just growing a new career, and I know it's doing very well,"
"No, I don't think I can do it any longer. I hate being on stage. I got these next three months to finish alex&y/n gigs, then I stop touring. Go back to writing and producing behind the stage, which I still love to do. I could do that from anywhere. Might need to travel once in a while, but I believe I can base here."
Jay stays quiet for a moment. You feel your heart beating fast, waiting for his next words, which turn out to be another question. "If I say no, are you not gonna come and stay?"
Your face was crestfallen, your throat felt dry. Thoughts ran around in the back of your mind. If you stay here, you'd be closer to Jay. But if he doesn't want to forgive you, would staying still be better than being far away from him? "I... probably still come back and stay in Chicago." you finally answer him.
A ringing phone interrupts the heartfelt conversation before Jay gives you any response. He picks up his phone without stepping away from you. "Yeah? Okay. Give me 15 minutes." He says to whomever on the phone. Once the call ends, Jay stands up from his seat, "I gotta go."
"Work?" You pry.
"No. It's Hailey. She asks me to go with her for lunch," Jay explains.
"Oh.." Now you really look pathetic. Jealous for someone dear to Jay? Yeah, you certainly are a mess now.
You follow Jay, who already moves to the front door. As he opens the door to let himself out, Jay pauses to look at you. "It's good to see you, Y/N." He sounds so sincere.
You smile softly at him, "Yeah, Jay. It's good to see you too."
◢◤
"So you went to see her? Why?" Hailey exclaims. She cannot comprehend the reason Jay still wanted to meet his ex.
Jay shrugs. "I just... I don't know. I thought if I talked to her, then I would be able to let go and move on."
"And? Could you now?" Hailey confronts him.
"No. It made me miss her more." Jay admits.
Hailey scorns her friend's confession. "You're not even trying to move on, Jay."
"Maybe. I don't know if I want to though," Jay looks out to the street through the cafe's window.
"She's going to leave again. Break your heart again. Is that what you want?" Hailey tries to make Jay sees the real possibility here.
Jay doesn't give her any response. Without Hailey's reminder, he already thought and feared about the same things.
◢◤
"I have to state that this is an absolute misconduct." Hailey declares furiously from the passenger seat. "And I'm still thinking that you're making a wrong choice here."
It's Monday morning. Hailey should've been suspicious when Jay handed her a cup of coffee and a bag of pastry from her favorite bakery. Now they are gunning down to the charter terminal at Chicago Midway as if they're chasing a perp who tries to escape the country. Jay glances at Hailey and smirks, "Your complaint has been received and noted."
Jay turns his focus back on the road. He has been informed where the plane is gonna be. When he finds it, Jay sees you and your team walk to a G5 that's being prepared for their flight.
Jay brakes his car harshly. The loud screeching sound makes you pause and look at the source of the noise. Jay jumps out of the car and approaches you. He sees the surprised look on your face when you realize that he's here. You slowly walk towards Jay, gaping at him but utter no words.
"There months, you say?" Jay asks you with a heavy breath.
You answer wordlessly with a nod, not getting where Jay's going with this.
"I could wait for three months. Or more. As long as you come back to me." Jay tells you seriously.
"Yeah?" You stutter, eyes wide in surprise. "You sure?"
"Never been surer about anything else in my life," Jay states confidently. He sees your face beams, then it turns into a wide grin. Before he knows it, he has you in his arms, squealing happily.
-end-
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Author Notes :
I plan to continue this story with one shots or drabbles, but I don't know when. Please drop me a message/reply if you wanna be tagged for future fics. You are definitely welcome to follow the account. Or you can just wait for them to appear on "Jay Halstead x reader" tag posts. Thank you for all the loves you gave this fic!
#fanfiction#jay halstead x reader#jay halstead fic#jay halstead imagine#chicago pd fic#One Chicago#one chicago fic#jay halstead#hailey upton#Adam Ruzek#Kelly Severide#original work#wyftiiffy
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When award-winning cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto started working on the video for “Willow” with Taylor Swift in November, he didn’t know that it was a part of her new surprise album, Evermore.
“I thought maybe it was a video for the previous album,” he tells Rolling Stone. “I didn’t even know what the song was at our first meeting.”
Prieto wasn’t the only one in the dark about the new record; Swift dropped Evermore last week with a very similar rollout to her previous LP Folklore, complete with a self-directed music video released at midnight along with the album: “Willow.” The video serves as a narrative continuation of the story in the “Cardigan” music video — which Prieto also worked on — featuring a ton of visual references to tracks from Folklore.
“Willow” starts off in the same cabin where the “Cardigan” video left off, and Swift is once again beckoned to go inside her magical, time-and-space-traveling piano. She follows a golden string (referencing the Folklore song “Invisible String”) and arrives at an autumnal forest clearing under a willow tree, where she sees the reflection of a man (played by her tour dancer Taeok Lee) and a woman in a moonlit pool. The string later leads her to a scene from her childhood, a carnival tent party where she performs inside a glass box, and a wintery seance in the middle of the forest. Eventually, the string leads her back to the cabin where she reunites with Lee.
As with the “Cardigan” video, Swift, Prieto and the production team not only had to keep the shoot under wraps, but also find innovative ways to film the project under Covid-19 safety protocols without endangering the lives of the crew. Prieto spoke to Rolling Stone about the production this time around, and how the team brought Swift’s witchy vision for “Willow” to life.
How did the “Willow” shoot differ from “Cardigan”? It looks like you guys were able to have other actors on set this time around, but how did that change the safety measures you had to follow?
It was still very, very strict. A big part of it was the whole testing protocols, which we also did last time. But when we were doing this video, we knew more [about the virus], and the safety guidelines were more specific. We followed the same ones the DGA has done, that my union Local 600 has done, SAG — they’ve all put in place these protocols that we did follow, and were very careful about it.
For instance, in the scene with the choreography around the tree and the clearing, you know, with a sort of dance around these magical orbs, there was a limit on how many actors and dancers we could have there. That was created by visual effects, actually — they added in more dancers. I think the actual number was 10 dancers when we were filming, and they all have masks on, actually. We can’t see their faces, and that’s partly because they have masks.
There’s only really one moment, in the cabin, where she’s in close contact with [another actor], with the man that she’s been missing at all these different moments. But, of course, both were tested, and they’d only take off their masks in the moment where we’re actually shooting. Everyone else would always wear masks on. And similar to last time, anybody who was in the immediate vicinity of the scene had to have a red wristband — it was all color-coded, in terms of who could be close to the scene and the actors. And certainly, it was very important to have not only a mask, but a face shield whenever we were anywhere close to Taylor or any of the other actors or dancers.
I still used the remote camera on a crane, so there wasn’t even a camera operator close to anybody. We were still following all the guidelines very closely, but now, it felt more relaxed in the sense that we have more information. We could just follow all these protocols. And we knew that we’d be safe because it was all pretty strict.
You mentioned last time that communication could sometimes be difficult on the “Cardigan” set because everyone had to kind of yell at each other or point to things since they couldn’t get in close proximity. Was Taylor able to be more hands-on in her directing this time around, like she was while you were shooting the music video for “The Man?”
That was still was the case — especially when you have a mask and a face shield, and you’re six feet away, you have to be a little louder to be heard. So we did maintain that protocol. But she was still very involved. I would stay at my monitor at the DIT [digital imaging technician] station, because it was the best image, but everyone would all be kind of looking at it from a distance, from six feet away.
But there was one moment that was unforgettable. And she actually has mentioned it, which was, just as we were starting to film on November 7th, we got the news of the election result. We were both looking at the monitor at the DIT station, and she got a text alert or something like that. Obviously, at that moment, we were all working on the video, but in the back of our minds we’re all like, OK, what’s gonna happen? And she was the only one who could actually look at her phone, because in fact, everybody had to relinquish their phones in the beginning so that nobody would take photos of anything, except for a few people like myself, who could sometimes use our phone to take a photograph as reference. And I was only using it very, very sporadically for that sort of thing.
So Taylor ended up being the messenger for the election results on set.
Exactly. So, she’s next to me — six feet away, but she was next to me. And she got this text, and she showed it to me. So I learned of the result from her at that moment, and what I told her was, “I will never forget this moment,” both because it’s such a historically important moment and because she was the one who showed me this information, you know. That was pretty special. Yeah. I felt like celebrating and doing a little dance, but I didn’t — we’re professionals and we’re working and also, I wanted to be respectful of anybody who had voted differently. But it was a very incredible moment, and just the beginning of a three-day shoot that turned out to be an adventure.
This video makes so many references to songs on Folklore and older songs from Taylor’s discography, both obvious and hidden. How did she lay out her vision to you?
The first meeting was talking about the story and the ideas. I still didn’t know the song, but the first thing was figuring out that it’s a continuation of the previous one we did together. At that moment, she was still kind of developing her ideas and trying to figure out exactly what was going to happen — for example, the ending wasn’t quite clear yet. She knew that she wanted to finish again in the cabin and that [the man] would be there, right. But during that meeting, we decided to have them both leave the cabin. That was an idea that came to us as we were talking as a team.
And then we went back and forth — at first she thought it should be night outside because it’s always been night, and then she changed her mind and said it should be daytime, so we were like, OK, what does it look like out there? Is it just the limbo? And then Ethan Tobman, our production designer, said it should be this sort of autumn forest. She was very much appreciative of that and really listened to everybody’s ideas.
There was also discussion about that moment in the clearing, about whether it should be a bonfire or not. First of all, with production, we would have had to shoot it outside and that would have been very complicated. But also she felt that, even with special effects, it was not a good thing to show with all the wildfires going on in California. So she came up with the concept of some type of orbs, something more magical, and Ethan Tobman came up with a bunch of different reference photos for that. That was the way we developed these concepts — even with the willow tree, Ethan sent some images and ideas, and one of them had these magenta leaves on the ground, which was weird and magical. Taylor and I loved that. It was that kind of back-and-forth in the pre-production phase, before we even heard the music.
It’s amazing how you were able to pull this off under such complicated circumstances — communicating back-and-forth over Zoom, and then with the actual video shoot itself.
It’s pretty tricky to get such a complicated and really technically challenging shoot off the ground, but we planned it all beforehand. Ethan Tobman was working with his art director Simon Morgan on designing the sets over Zoom. So, it was all overhead plans, and then you have to go to the set and map it out. For that clearing scene, for instance, Simon Morgan and myself, and my gaffer Manny Tapia and my key grip Donald Reynolds, we went to the soundstage first and taped the space in the center where the magic orbs would be. And then we measured the distance to the background with the blue screen, and taped where all the trees would be, and then figured out where all the lighting would be for there and the carnival set — everything had to be very, very precise, and the distance had to all be worked out. It really helped when we were actually shooting, because it went very smoothly. So, that’s how we made it.
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My Everything - Part Ten
A Take it Slow Sequel
What happens with Harry and Y/N after he proposes? How will the two navigate the engaged life while also continuing to juggle their jobs, friends, and families? Let’s find out.
Warnings: Fluff and Smut! 6K
Masterpost
You and Harry let Buster sleep in the bed with you that night since you’d be away from him for so long. Niall drove you both to the airport the next morning. You were beyond excited for this trip. You and Harry were pros at flying together at this point. He knew to keep an arm around you while you slept, and he’d keep his head rested on yours.
When you get off the plane you each head into the bathroom to change into some lighter clothes. You brought a light green pair of shorts and a white tank top to wear, and Harry changed into a pair of light blue shorts with a black t-shirt. You both looked very ready for Florida.
“I can’t wait for you to bust out your real Florida clothes.” You giggle. “You know the ones that make you look like a grandpa in Miami?”
“Oh baby, I brought all that shit.” He winks. He reaches into his carry on and hands you your fast pass band. “We need ‘em when we get in line for the buses.”
You both navigate through the Orlando airport, and wait for the bus to your resort. You get on and about halfway through the ride you go into the Disney app to see if your room is ready.
“Oh look! Floor four, room 3000.” You show Harry your phone. “But our luggage most likely won’t be there until later tonight.”
“S’alright, we can at least stick our backpacks in the room for now.”
You hum your response. The two of you were in awe of the resort. You were able to use your wristbands to unlock the door, you didn’t even need to go to the desk in the lobby to check in. There was a note on the little table in the room.
“Listen to this!” You exclaim, and he turns to look at you. “Congratulations on your recent partnership, we thank you for wanting to celebrate your honeymoon with us. Let us know how we can make this experience even more magical for you.”
“That’s cute.” He pouts.
The two of you walk the grounds of the resort just to get familiar with where the pool and restaurants are.
“Alright, so we’re doin’ EPCOT this afternoon?” He asks.
“Mhm, look that’s where all the shuttles come.”
It takes a few minutes to actually get into the park, but once you do you couldn’t be more thrilled. They give you and Harry buttons that say “Just Married” on them for you to wear. You use your Fast Pass to go on Spaceship Earth first. You were mostly excited to get to the World’s Fair so you could eat a ton of the different food.
You and Harry have a lot of fun in Mexico, and go on the Donald Duck ride. You take lots of selfies as you go around from country to country. You ended up eating at a French restaurant that night and it was delicious. You both stayed in the park to see the fireworks and it was beautiful. Harry had his arms wrapped around you, chin resting on your head.
By the time you got back to your room, you were pooped. You both do your nightly routine and climb into bed.
“Oh my god, this is beyond comfortable.” You say.
“What’s on the itinerary tomorrow, sweetheart?”
“We are spending the day at Magic Kingdom. Our first Fast Pass is at Space Mountain. Once we use all three we can add more. Our reservation is at like 9AM, so we’ll have time for breakfast here.”
“It’s gonna be really sunny tomorrow, we’ll need sunscreen and all that.”
“We can also take a break in the afternoon if we feel like coming back for a swim before going back in for dinner. We’re eating in Disney Springs tomorrow.”
“Great first day, hm?”
“It was perfect.” You kiss goodnight and slowly drift off after getting comfortable.
//
“Are you sure you’re okay with goin’ on this ride? You hate roller coasters.” Harry says to you as you’re in line for Space Mountain.
“I think I’ll be okay. Oh shit…we can’t sit together?”
“It’s a single rider, you wanna go behind me?”
“Yeah.”
Harry couldn’t help but laugh during the ride when he heard you scream and then start to laugh like you always did.
“I did pretty well.”
“You did, I’m very proud of you.” He kisses your hairline. “What’s next?”
“We are meeting Princess Ariel.” You beam. “She’s my favorite.”
“Sounds good to me. Gives us a chance to really walk through the park.”
There was even more wonderful food to snack on at Magic Kingdom. You both were just having an amazing time. The weather was beautiful and you had no cares in the world. Over the next few days you did everything in the Disney book. You had dinner in Belle’s Castle, you screamed your head off on the Tower of Terror, and opted to let Harry go on the Rockin’ Roller Coaster alone. You took a ton of pictures, especially in front of Cinderella’s Castle. You also tried every Dole Whip you could find in each park. The only thing was that most nights by the time you’d finally get back to your room, you both would be too tired to be intimate. And then in the morning, you’d have to get up, eat breakfast and get to the park. It was an amazing four days, but you were excited to head to Fort Meyers.
//
Harry rented a car for the two of you, and to the West Coast you went.
“God, that was so much fun, I already wanna plan our next trip.” You laugh. “I think Sarah had the right idea about a group trip.”
“Oh, definitely. We could all stay on resort, drink around the world, it would be great.”
“Maybe in a few years, yeah? It took so long to save up and pay off.”
“I agree, this is something you do once in a while. Thanks for takin’ care of most of the plannin’ for it.” He rubs your thigh. “Wait until you see the place we’re headed, you’ll love it.”
“I’m very excited.” You check your phone. “I was hoping Mariah would have sent us some photos…”
“She said she wants it all to be a big surprise. She’s working on making us a book and all that. Just be patient, baby. Then we can take our time goin’ through all of it.”
“You’re right. Plus, now we can go through all the pictures we just took. The one of you and Goofy has got to be my favorite.”
“I liked the ones you took with Woody and Bo Peep, that was hilarious.”
“Should we stop off at a grocery store before going to the house just to get what we need for the next few days?”
“Good idea, I don’t see us leavin’ too much.” He smirks.
“You know…and I don’t want this to kill the vibe at all…but the day we come back our flight is in the late afternoon, and we’re only an hour from Nannie. I was wondering if maybe she could come have breakfast with us?”
“On the last morning? Sure.” He shrugs. “She won’t mind takin’ the drive?”
“Nah, plus, she’d bring a friend with her. Thanks, I just feel guilty being in Florida and not seeing her, even though we just saw her.”
“No, I get it. I’d wanna spend time with her too.” He smiles. “She was so cute when she danced with me at the wedding.”
“She couldn’t wait to get her hands on you.” You laugh and put your hand over his. “Neither can I. Oh! Seth just texted a picture of Buster, our little baby boy.” You pout and show Harry quick. You can’t help but start laughing.
“What?”
“Nothing, I just…sometimes I think back, and like, did you ever think Seth would be one of your best friends?”
“No.” Harry laughs. “He really is a great guy, I’m glad he’s in my life.”
“I think he wants to marry Isaac, they could be next out of all our friends.”
“I wanna know what the fuckin’ hold up with Niall and Sarah is. I feel like something’s comin’ soon with them, but I can’t put my finger on it.”
“Sarah’s looking at new schools to work at…she, uh, really wants to get in at a prep school. They may start looking at houses soon.”
“Yeah, Niall mentioned something about that. He really likes living in the city, it would suck to commute like that.”
“I know.” You sigh. “They have a lot to consider. At least Rach and Mariah seem to be staying in the city for a bit longer.”
“I think Mariah wants to have a baby soon too.”
“Oh really?!” You squeal.
“Yeah, she’s mentioned it a couple of times. They haven’t talked about it much, but she wants to be the one to get pregnant and carry it if they do.” Harry chuckles. “Isaac even offered up his sperm.”
“Aw, what a sweetie.” You giggle.
You and Harry go grocery shopping quickly before getting to the house he rented.
“Oh my god.” You gasp as he pulls up.
“The boat’s already at the dock out back too. Got my license online and everything. We’ll be able to go out and enjoy a few rides.”
“Oh, I can’t wait, babe.” You get everything into the house and go outside. “Wow, this is really private.”
“Mhm, we can screw out here and no one would know.”
“Oh, stop it.” You swat a hand at him. You walk down further and feel the sand between your toes. “I can’t wait to swim. The boat is perfect too, honey, well done.”
“Wanna explore the inside?”
“Definitely.”
You both go back in. It was a simple ranch style home, but it was beautiful. The master bedroom was ginormous and it had a giant en suite. The kitchen was open concept and flowed naturally into a living and eating area. There was a nice patio out back as well.
“It’s perfect, Harry. Thank you.” You wrap your arms around his neck. “So…I spoke with Dr. Mara a few weeks ago, and I didn’t say anything to you, but I switched medications.”
“You did?” He steps back from you. “Seems like an odd thing not to tell me, Y/N.”
“I know, we just had a lot going on. I…wanted to be able to have alcohol for this part of our honeymoon. It was really hard not to get anything in Disney, especially while you were trying a bunch of stuff, but I was afraid of going overboard too soon. I want us to be able to be romantic and have wine and just really enjoy this part of things. Anyways, the new medication I’m on allows me to have alcohol in small amounts.”
“So that’s why you were so adamant about getting wine at the store.” He says in understanding.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I wanted to see how my mood changed and all that.”
“I literally didn’t notice a difference.”
“I know! So it’s doing its job.”
You both were feeling a bit nervous since you wanted this all to be special.
“Okay, what do you say we put our suits on, and head to the boat. We can bring some of the snacks we just bought and just have some fun on the water.”
“I think that’s a great idea.” You smile.
You put on a cute light blue two piece, and Harry had his yellow trunks. You pack up some snacks and water. You both lather each other with sunscreen, and go down to the boat. Harry uses a map so he knows where he can go. There was a sandbar that the owners of the house told him about.
“There! Where the other boats are parked.” You point out to him. “How do you even know how to do drive this thing?”
“I’ve driven a boat before.” He scoffs. “Have you met me? I’m good at everything anyways.”
You roll your eyes and nudge him. He parks the boat and throws the anchor. You open the bag of baby carrots and pop a couple into your mouth.
“Should we swim? It’s fuckin’ hot out.”
“You’re just full of great ideas today.”
You both get in the water and swim around. You splash and giggle and just have a great time. You both sit out and get some sun as well. Eventually, you go back to the house and Harry grills some veggie burgers for the two of you. As the sun sets, you both change into some warmer clothes, and he gets a fire started in the pit. He grabs some sticks and you get some marshmallows.
“What do you say, want some wine?” You ask.
“Mhm, if you do.”
“I do…I should probably stick to one glass so I don’t get fucked up.” You laugh.
You sit together outside and roast your marshmallows. You clink your glasses and enjoy the sweet red wine.
“Mm, I forgot how good wine tasted.” You giggle.
Harry’s arm was around you. He set his glass on the ground, and tilts your chin up to look at him. He presses his lips to yours and swipes his tongue along your bottom lip. He pulls away and smiles.
“I agree, very sweet.” He leans back and kisses you again. “Is it helpin’ yeh relax at all? I don’t want you to feel pressured.”
“It’s helping, yeah. I know there’s no pressure, I’ll either come back pregnant or I won’t. It could stake a few tries, and that’s fine. This is all just so romantic, I want it so badly.”
“Me too, and when it’s meant to it will.” He assures you.
You both finish your glasses, and it definitely hit you. Your tolerance had gotten really low. You both clean everything up and head inside.
“That was a nice fire.” You wrap your arms around his neck and his go around your waist.
“Yeah?”
“Mhm.” You get on your tip toes and kiss him.
He walks you into the bedroom and you both fall onto the bed. He gets you far back so your head can rest on the soft pillows.
“You looked so sexy in your swim suit today.” He kisses on your neck and you giggle. “I wanted to take it off with my teeth.”
“Aw, why didn’t you?” You pout. “Tomorrow I’ll put it on just so you can take it off that exact way.” He grinds his hips down against yours and you groan. “Knew you’d like that.”
“I’d love it.” He growls as his hands slide up under your shirt. Your hips buck up towards his. “Tell me what you want, angel.” His eyes were locked on yours now.
“I want to make a baby with you.” You say just above a whisper.
“Fuck.” He says under his breath.
He lifts your shirt off you and practically rips your bra away. He pulls his own shirt off and attaches his lips to your right nipple. Your hand tugs at his hair as he sucks on you. His other hand kneads your left breast. He moves to start kissing down your body, sucking wherever he pleases, leaving behind all of the marks he wants. Your body felt hot all over with every touch he left behind. He tugs your shorts and underwear off, and he licks his lips as you open your legs for him.
“We’re gonna take our time, okay? We have nowhere to be, so we’re in no rush.” He says, planting kissing on your inner thigh.
“Okay. I want this to be really good for both of us, it’s not just about me.”
“Tonight it is, but we have three more nights here after tonight, don’t you worry.”
You gasp when you feel his tongue lick through your folds and up to your clit. He does this a few times just enjoying the way you taste. His hands spread you further apart as he swirls his tongue around your clit. Your hands grip at the roots of his curls. He works two fingers inside you slowly, and it makes your head spin. He was really feeling around, he knew the territory well, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t still occasionally explore. Plus, he knew you liked the way his fingers would stretch you out.
He nibbles and sucks on your clit as his fingers curl up against that spongey spot. You grind against him and let out soft whimpers. He was giving you exactly what you needed. He knew you were under a lot of pressure. Erica had been trying to get pregnant ever since her wedding, and she had a lot of trouble. She was only three and a half years older than you, and you weren’t sure if you’d run into the same issues.
“Oh fuck, oh my god, shit.” You were panting as his fingers picked up the pace. “Harry, oh my god!” Your head rolls back further into the pillow as you release onto his fingers. He retracts them slowly and sucks them into his mouth. “Get your pants off, now.”
He smirks and gets the rest of his clothes off. He hovers over you as you grip him in your hand. You drag his tip against your clit and folds, almost teasing yourself.
“God, I can’t wait to really feel you again, it’s been way too long.”
“I can’t wait to feel your come inside me again.” You line him up with you and he slowly starts to push in.
You both moan out once he’s all the way in. You clench around him, never wanting him to leave.
“If you do that m’not gonna be able to last long.”
“I’m sorry, you just feel incredible already.”
He smooths your hair away from your forehead and kisses it. He kisses your nose next, and then slots his mouth over yours as he rocks in and out of you. You wrap your legs around his waist and drag your nails down his back as his tongue molds to yours.
You were both sweating even with the A.C. on. It was pooling between your stomachs, but neither of you cared. You both were so caught up in just feeling good. He hooks an arm under one of your legs and drive in a little deeper. It hits just the right spot, and your nails sink into his ass.
“Right there, Harry, fuck.”
He sponges kisses to your neck and bites down on you. You lose it at that and he feels you come around his cock. He drops your leg and pulls out. He grabs your hips and flips you over. He spreads you apart with his thumbs and slides back in. One of his hands grips the back of your neck while the other presses into your hip. You loved this part. Sometimes harry would start out so sweet, make sure you came a couple of times, and then he’d get a little rough.
“How’s this?” He grunts.
“So good, so fucking good, rail me babe.”
He thrusts in and out of you faster and faster, but then he slows down. He pulls out of you again and flips you back on your back.
“What’s wrong?” You out.
“Nothing.” He slides back in. “I just wanna be able to see your face, that’s all.”
You smile at each other as he thrusts in and out of you again. His tip brushes against your g-spot so you grip onto his biceps to relieve some of the pressure building. You groan when you feel his muscles flex.
“Harry, please, I want you to come.”
“You do?” He grunts.
“Yes, please, I want us to come at the same time.”
He strokes your cheek and leans down to give you a kiss as his movements get sloppier. You can’t hold on much longer, but it doesn’t matter because the second you feel his warm come paint your walls, you release again. He moans your name as he continues to fill you up. You clench around him while he slowly pulls out so you don’t lose a single drop.
“You might wanna sit with your legs up for a few minutes, angel.”
You clamp your thighs together the second he’s out. He helps you shift and turn around so you can rest your legs up against the headboard. He sits next to you and looks down at your flushed face.
“How long do you think I should stay like this?” You giggle.
“Don’t know.” He shrugs. “Five minutes maybe?” You reach your hand out and rest it on his thigh.
“That was really nice. I feel like we haven’t been close like that in a long time.”
“I know.” He rests his hand on yours. “Things got really hectic, huh?”
“Mhm.”
You both slept really well that night. The next morning, Harry fucked you in the shower, and then again while you were trying to make breakfast. You had promised him he could take your swim suit off with his teeth, after all. You both enjoyed the sun and sand on your little private beach.
“I’m gonna dip my feet in the water.” You tell him and he hums his response, not looking up from his book.
Harry stretches and sets his book down. He tips his sunglasses down his nose to properly watch you strut down to the water. As you walk back you notice him looking at you. He makes a “come here” motion with his index finger. You giggle and go over to him, straddling him in the long beach chair.
“You’re hard.” You say into his neck.
“Mhm, can’t help it. My wife is just so sexy.” He grips your hips tightly.
“I could say the same about my husband.”
He reaches between the two of you and moves your bathing suit bottom to the side to rub your slit. His fingers easily slip inside you and you bite down on his neck.
“Can I fuck you our here?” He grumbles as his fingers work your insides.
“Yes.” You breathe.
Your hands roam down his stomach to the top of his swim suit. You pull out his hard cock and line it up with your center. He takes his fingers out of you so you can slip him in. It was the middle day, you two were out in broad daylight, and you were fucking in the open air. Normally you wouldn’t do something like this, but you really did have a lot of privacy.
He rocks you up and down on his cock. You prayed the chair underneath you wouldn’t break. He gets a little frustrated, so he picks you up and lays you on the towel you had laid out between your chairs. You giggle as he puts your legs over his shoulders.
“Tell me this isn’t more comfortable?”
“It is, you’re just cute.”
“Can’t get enough of yeh.”
He sucks on your neck in multiple spots, really making a mess of you. Your bathing suit top loosens from the way your breasts are bouncing up and down and he nearly comes at the sight. He grabs the front of it and rips it away. He dips his head down as he drops your legs to suck one of your nipples into his mouth. You rub your clit as he does all of this and you start moaning out a little louder. He loved when you both would work together like this. He comes inside you just as you release.
After Harry goes inside to grab some waters, he sees you still laying on your back, spraying some sunscreen on your chest.
“What are you doin’?” He chuckles, handing you a water.
“When do I ever get the chance to just openly tan my entire chest? I’m taking advantage of the privacy.”
That night for dinner, you pack up some sandwiches, and harry takes you for a boat ride. You end up giving him a much deserved blow job. The rest of your trip was just sort of like this. The two of you making love any time you felt like it. There was one day you didn’t even really leave the bedroom, you could barely walk by the time you needed to meet your Nannie for breakfast before you caught your plane home. Needless to say, Harry wore you out in hopes of getting you pregnant, and you didn’t mind one bit.
//
Isaac and Seth had dropped Buster off before you got home so he’d be there waiting for you. You drop to your knees and let him lick your face when you see him.
“My baby! Mummy missed you soooo much!” Harry joins you on the floor with him and hugs him. “Daddy did too.”
“Should we, uh, buy some tests tomorrow?” He asks, petting his boy.
“Yeah, we could. I don’t know how soon you can tell though. We might have to wait a couple of weeks.”
“True, might not be a bad idea to just stock up on ‘em.”
“I’ll go to the drug store tomorrow after work.”
“Ugh, work.” He gets up and helps you to your feet. “Not lookin’ forward to that.”
“Me neither.” You sigh.
“Well, I shouldn’t say that, I just wish we could stay like this.”
“I know what you mean. If I could relive the last two weeks over and over, I would.” You walk over to the living room and gasp when you see the photo album sitting on the coffee table. “Harry, look!” You squeal.
You both sit down and snuggle up with the album. You both get glossy eyed when you look over everything. Mariah did an incredible job, not that either of you were worried.
“Your dress really was stunning, baby.”
“So was your suit.”
You look at each other. It didn’t take long until you were both naked and fucking on the couch.
//
“Look at how beautiful the castle was at night.” You were showing Niall a ton of your photos.
“The lights look incredible. Sarah’s been talkin’ about going now, I think you put a bug in her ear.” He chuckles.
“You two should definitely go! She loves the princesses and all that.”
“Believe me, I know. We were thinkin’ of going at the end of this summer.”
“Oh?!” You smile.
“Yeah, I, uh…well…” He takes his phone out and shows you a picture of a ring and you gasp. “Do you think she’ll like it?”
“Oh my god, she’s going to love it!” You hug him. “And she’d love a Disney proposal, are you kidding me?”
“She won’t think it’s cheesy?”
“No! She’ll die, oh my goodness.” You hug him again. “This is wild, we’re all so adult.”
“Well, I figured if we’re gonna buy a house together, I might as well put a ring on it before her dad kills me.” He jokes.
“What towns have you guys been looking in?”
“Right now, just the Milton area. We don’t wanna be too far from the city since I don’t plan on lookin’ for a new job any time soon.”
“It’ll be weird not having you across the street, but I understand wanting a home.”
“Do you think you and Harry will start lookin’ for a house?”
“Not anytime soon. We like living in the city.” You shrug.
“What about when you start havin’ kids?”
“Our apartment can handle a child. If we have more, which we probably will, then I’m sure we’ll need to move. But for now we can stay where we are. I’m kind of nervous. Erica’s been having trouble getting pregnant, and…”
“Hey.” He puts his hand on your shoulder. “It’ll happen when it happens, okay?” He smiles reassuringly.
//
When your period came, Harry seemed more upset than you.
“I guess I just don’t understand how it all works.” He sighs.
“We knew this could happen, we’ll just have to try again when I’m ovulating next.” You give his hand a squeeze and smile. “We need to try not to think about it as much. A lot of people conceive when they’re least expecting it.”
“I know, you’re right.” He kisses your cheek. “We’ll get there.”
//
Two more months had gone by, and you still hadn’t gotten pregnant. Harry was getting ready to take you away for your birthday. Just a simple weekend at a spa to relax. Your summer had gotten sort of stressful. You had gotten hired as a TL at your old college to teach a class online for the summer. It was going really well, and the class was just about over. Your passion for teaching students about media was growing stronger.
This meant, though, many of your nights had been long. You would often stay in your office after hours to get some grading and other work done. Harry hated it, of course. The stress couldn’t have been helping. It was nearly 7PM, and the office was empty. You just needed to get through some emails from your students and then you could go home to start your much needed long weekend for your twenty-seventh birthday.
There was a knock on the outside of your door. It was Harry with a bouquet of flowers. You look up and smile.
“What are you doing here?”
“Thought we could go to dinner. Dropped Buster off with Niall and Sarah.”
“God, I’m gonna miss them when they’re not right across the street.” You frown. “But I’m happy their offer got accepted.”
“Me too. And what great timing that they’re headed to Disney soon too. They can relax from all the stress they’ve been under. I’m glad they’ve gone through it first, to be honest.” He closes the door behind him and locks it.
“No one’s here, you could’ve left that open.”
“Eh, force of habit.” He shrugs.
You stand up to give him a hug. He looks you up and down. You had a red, short sleeve blouse on paired with a black pencil skirt.
“These flowers are beautiful, thank you.”
“Happy almost birthday, my love.” He cups your cheek with one hand and kisses you.
“I just need to finish up some emails and then we can go.”
You sit back down and he comes around to stand behind you. He starts rubbing your shoulders just as you begin typing. Your fingers stop and your eyes flutter closed. Harry would always be your favorite masseuse.
“You look good enough to eat, you know that right?” He whispers in your ear, sending a shiver up your spine.
You send your last email and turn your monitor off. He spins you around in your chair so you’re facing him. You look up at him through your lashes. For years you had told Harry you’d never have sex in your office. But you were ovulating and extremely turned on.
“So why not have your appetizer here then?”
His eyebrows shoot up. He was expecting you to say no or to tell him anything other than what you just said. His hands drag up from your knees to your thighs, bunching up your skirt to your hips. He grips your panties and takes them off of you. He drops to his knees and puts your legs over his shoulders, pulling you closer to the edge of your seat. His tongue was on you in seconds, but he takes it away just as quickly. He nips at your inner thigh, sucking a very dark mark into your skin.
“Fuck.” You breathe as he does it to the other one.
He licks into you again, getting a very good taste. He drags his tongue up to your clit and sucks on you.
“Harry.” Your head rolls back, and the chair nearly tips over, but he steadies it.
One of his hands reaches up to grip your throat, and your eyes roll into the back of your head as you come on his tongue. He stands up and undoes his pants. He licks his lips when he looks at you, he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do to you first.
“Take me on the floor, please.” You beg him.
“Get on your back then.”
You stand up and lay on the ground. Harry chuckles as he gets on the ground over you.
“What?”
“Thought you would’ve wanted me to bend you over the desk.”
“No, I want it like this.” His lips ghost over yours.
You gasp as he enters you, and his tongue goes into your mouth. Yours molds to his and he swallows your groans. He carefully unbuttons your blouse so he can cup your breasts over your bra. He was ramming into you, and it felt incredible.
“Oh my god, Harry.” Your back arches slightly. Something about doing it in your office after saying no for so long was really doing something for you. “Holy shit!” You scream as he rubs on your clit. “Don’t stop.” You groan.
“Baby.” He moans. “Fuck, you’re so beautiful like this.”
You wrap your legs around him to pull him closer to you. You knew your back was going to hurt tomorrow, but you didn’t care. He takes his other hand to grab yours, intertwining your fingers. He pins it next to your head. You use your free hand to grip his throat. You were thankful there was A/C in your office, or the two of you would be drenched in even more sweat than you were.
You tighten around him as you come to another release. He squeezes your hand as he comes inside you. Your grip loosens around his throat as you both catch your breaths. He sticks a finger inside you so nothing slips out, and then he grabs your underwear to slide up your legs.
“Hope you won’t be too uncomfortable at dinner.” He says as he helps you up.
“I’ll be fine.” You smile and kiss him. “I love you.”
“I love you too.”
//
At the end of the month, on their trip in Disney, Niall proposed to Sarah, and she happily accepted. You couldn’t wait to celebrate with them when they got back. The class you taught got amazing reviews in the course evaluations. You were asked to come in for a meeting with the head of the Communication Department.
“Y/N!” Dr. Harrison calls you into her office. You knew her very well. “It’s so good to see you.”
“You too.” You shake her hand and have a seat. “Weird, last time I sat in this seat I was asking you about internships.” You laugh.
“Funny how things come full circle sometimes.” She smiles. “We were very impressed with how well your class went. We haven’t had students do so well with TL like this in a while. A lot of students who take summer courses take them to improve their GPA’s.”
“So I noticed. I had them send me intro videos for their first assignments, and a lot of them said they were grateful my class was being taught.”
“One of our faculty members is heading to another institution next semester. So she’ll only be here for the fall term. We have to start figuring out spring semester courses later this month. She teaches a lot of the film and media courses.” You nod. “You have your MEd, correct?”
“That’s right.”
“We’re going to be searching for a new teaching position soon. I’ve been speaking with the other faculty, you were such a rock star of a student, and we were wondering if you’d consider applying once we open it.”
“What?” You were in shock.
“I know that’s a lot to ask, obviously, you seem to really like your job. You’re good at what you do, but you also seem to be a great teacher. We’d like you to teach more of our students.”
“I…I don’t know…see, my husband and I are trying to start a family, and my work has amazing maternity leave options and benefits. I mean, I could be pregnant now, and if I was that would mean I’d literally just make it to the end of the spring semester, and then I’d be on maternity all summer, and I know being a junior faculty means a lot of-“
“Y/N slow down.” She chuckles.
“It’s just, I essentially get six months off for maternity at my work…”
“I could get you some information about our union benefits. We have nine month contracts and twelve month contracts. Lots of different options. I don’t have kids of my own, but I have to say our insurance benefits are really great. You don’t have to decide anything right now, just know we’d love to have you. We’re going to open the position up at the end of September. At least consider applying, alright?”
On your way home from the meeting you had to pull over on the side of the road to throw up. You had taken the afternoon off from work to go to this meeting, so you go right home. You throw up again the second you get inside, luckily you made it to the toilet.
“What the fuck?” You say to yourself, and then it dawns on you. You get your phone and call Harry. You promised him any time you took a test that you needed to be together.
“Hey baby, how’d the meeting go?”
“Can you come home?”
“Um…uh…I have a client coming soon, why?”
“I’ve been throwing up all afternoon…I think I should take a test.”
“Oh! This shouldn’t take long, could you wait until I get home?”
“Harry.” You groan.
“Okay, take it, but don’t look at the results until I get home, please.”
“Alright.”
You go into the bathroom and take a pregnancy test. You had been trying for five months now, and you hadn’t had a symptom like this yet. You stick the test on the counter in the bathroom and go out to the living room. You had so many things to think over. Teaching had just become a new passion of yours, but was this opportunity worth disrupting everything right now?
You sit down and look over the union information Dr. Harrison gave you. You pull up your benefits package from work on your laptop and try to compare the two. The university, believe it or not, actually had better insurance policies. Being protected by a union would also be nice. This was the shitty part about working for a good business. You felt guilty for wanting something new. You were so grateful for everything, but you did the same thing every single day, and it just wasn’t giving you the same fulfillment it used to. You had been there since you were twenty-one, fresh out of college. You were twenty-seven now, maybe something new would be good. Besides that, you knew Niall had one foot out the door. Sarah had gotten a position at a nice prep-school, and he was looking at some other companies closer to their new house. He needed to be able to move up, and there were no positions opening up any time soon. He had been at Mark It even longer than you. A lot was changing all at once.
You take a deep breath and tell yourself you’ll talk things over with Harry later. A couple of hours later, Harry bursts through the door with Buster. You stand up immediately and walk with him hand in hand to the bathroom. You both look at the test sitting there and take a deep as you walk up to it. Both of your eyes widen when you look at it.
#harry styles#.harry styles imagine#my everything#take it slow sequel#harry styles fic#harry styles x reader#harry styles x y/n#harry styles y/n#harry styles fluff#harry styles fluff fic#harry styles smut#harry styles smut fic#fluff#smut#hope yall liked the honey moon!#pls tag if you reblog#come hang out in my ask box too!!
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Next chapter of My Past Became Our Future is up on Ao3! 😄
https://archiveofourown.org/works/30903125/chapters/77428313
Still in Logan’s POV, it’s a long one... but I really wanted to include a lot of details that I think worked pretty well! :)
TW: There’s alcohol mentions in this one, but that’s it.
Taglist: @psychedelicships @edupunkn00b @jwillowwolf @look-ma-im-on-tv @kacklingisanart @lost-in-thought-20 @stardustlv 🌟
If anyone would like to be added to or removed from the taglist, let me know! 💜
Chapter Six
“If I lay here. If I just lay here. Would you lie you lie with me and just forget the world?”
Logan thought that if he stared at the photograph long enough, he could live in it. He’d be with the Virgil of the past and they would be happy. No secrets, no dramatic revelations, just the two of them. He wouldn't be lying on the floor on his own, Virgil would be here with him, hand in hand. Just like they had done on many nights during their marriage. His mind was overwhelmed with trying to cling to the past, trying to work out if there any signs that he missed, but he continued to stare at the photograph and begged the memory to come to the forefront. It finally worked and Logan could escape to the past, even if it was just for a little while...
He remembered feeling incredibly nervous as he pulled up to Virgil’s apartment. At this point, they had been seeing each other for six months, but this was the first time he had gone to Virgil’s place and their first official date as boyfriends. He walked up gingerly to the door and searched for his name. Even here, he didn’t have a last name. He shrugged and just assumed Virgil liked his privacy as he pressed the buzzer waiting for a response.
“Hello?” Virgil’s voice was cautious as he answered the intercom.
“Greetings Starlight, it’s Logan.” He took a deep breath as the door unlocked and he made his way up the stairs to Virgil’s front door. He stopped on the doorstep and saw a letter handwritten to Virgil with a small dagger insignia in the corner which he picked up. The front door was slightly ajar and he saw Virgil peering out of the small gap, there was a small glint of something metal in his hand, but as soon as he saw Logan he smiled and threw the door open. He ran out while pocketing the metal thing that Logan couldn’t decipher and lept into Logan’s arms. They spun around before Logan put him down and smiled softly at him, Virgil grabbed his hand and pulled him into the apartment.
He was impressed at the size of the place, and how immaculate it was. He must be in the wrong job if working in HR gives you enough money to rent somewhere like this. Virgil shuffled around uncomfortably so he tried to not look too amazed.
“Do you want a drink or something before we head off to the restaurant? I’ve got pretty much everything, even that wine you like.” Logan saw that he was rubbing his shoulder and wincing like he was trying to get rid of a nagging pain there as he spoke, but decided not to press it.
“Aww it’s sweet that you remembered! I’ll have a glass of the wine, as long as you have one with me!” He winked as Virgil laughed and went off to the kitchen.
“Oh, I forgot! There was a letter in the main hall for you. It’s got a dagger stamp in the corner so I guessed it was something you’ve been waiting for?” There was an uncharacteristic silence as he waited for Virgil to tell him what to do with it.
“Could you… put it in the cabinet drawer please? I’ll take a look at it later.” There was a slight hint of panic in Virgil’s voice, but he did what was asked and walked over to the cabinet and opened the drawer. It was difficult to put the letter in because there were already five or so letters already in there, but still managed to set it in carefully and closed the drawer before moving away.
Logan wandered around the main space of the apartment and noticed a whole collection of photos on a set of shelves. He looked closely at them and saw Virgil with a group of people he didn’t recognize. There was one of him squished between the middle of two guys that were slightly taller than him, he noticed they were all wearing similar wristbands of different colours; one red, one yellow and Virgil’s was purple. Logan smiled, Virgil looked really cute when he was a few years younger. He moved onto the next frame, he was arm in arm with a slightly older man, if he had to hazard a guess that could be his father or someone. The wristbands again were a common theme, the other man was wearing a thicker light blue one compared to Virgil’s purple band. Logan squinted as he saw there was a person lingering in the back of that photograph, he was staring intently at the older man, almost like his sole purpose was to protect him. He wouldn’t have even noticed him if it wasn’t for the bright green wristband.
He turned around suddenly as Virgil coughed from behind him holding out two glasses of wine. He blushed a little and took the glass, he looked down at the floor unsure whether to ask about the photos.
“You can ask me… If you want to.” His eyes shot up, was Virgil telepathic or something? He took a breath before making his choice.
“I’m sorry, I got a bit curious… You haven’t mentioned any friends or close family before. So I was wondering who these people were…?” He smiled in a reassuring way that emphasized that he didn’t need to share any information he didn’t want to.
“… It’s okay. I trust you. These guys are- were, my Family. I moved in with them when I was eighteen. Here…” He gently took the two photo frames, leant against Logan and pointed to the different people.
“This is Roman, then me, and Janus. They were basically my brothers. The… other person is Patton. Practically my dad, that’s how I used to think of him. He was my martial arts instructor for many years until I joined the league- I mean, moved into the Family. My parents had… left, so Patton took me in until I wanted to move on.” Logan opened his mouth about to ask about the person at the back, but looking at how Virgil was biting his lip desperately trying not to cry, he decided to leave it. He took the photos back and set them exactly where they were before an alarm went off on his phone.
“Oh crap, we need to get going Starlight or we’ll be late!” He set the wine glass down that he hadn’t drunk yet, and Virgil downed his quickly before running off to grab a jacket. Logan sighed, that was quite lucky.
They drove to the restaurant with the windows down and music blaring as loud as it could go. He loved watching Virgil singing along to incredibly cheesy pop music, it made his heart swell every time. As they got closer, he turned the music down as he parked the car. He noticed Virgil’s leg was bouncing and he looked a little agitated. So Logan grabbed his hand and squeezed it, he squeezed it back strongly and as soon as they got out the car, he held his hand out halfway for Virgil to take again. From what Virgil had said, he never went out to restaurants very often, so this was a brand new experience for him.
They walked in and Logan gave his name. The girl grabbed the menus and sat them down, she called them an adorable couple before leaving to give them some time to look over everything. He couldn’t help but notice how Virgil blushed at the compliment before staring intensely at the menu. She came back quickly and jotted down their pretty basic order before lighting the candle in the middle of their table and leaving them to it once again. Logan grabbed Virgil’s hand and just gazed at him smiling gently.
“What are you looking at?” Virgil giggled as he noticed Logan staring at him.
“You, and how perfect you are.” He replied back as Virgil blushed an even brighter shade of pink.
“Stop it!” Logan couldn’t help but laugh, and squeezed his hand once again.
The table next to them was then filled by two men about the same age as them and Virgil pulled his hand away sharply. Logan understood why, you never know what people might be like.
“Oh my gosh! Honey, aren’t they just the cutest!!” The taller man in the red shirt squealed and held his hands over his mouth as he looked at Virgil and Logan, they glanced at each other. That wasn’t the reaction they were expecting. The slightly shorter man in the gold jumper rolled his eye affectionately before he stepped forward.
“Oh boys, please excuse my husband… He gets over excited sometimes. Anyway, my name is Nico and this is Thomas. It’s lovely to meet you!” He held out his hand, Logan shook it first and Virgil stopped looking at Nico like he was a threat and shook his hand too, then Thomas came forward to do the same.
“Hi, I’m Logan and this is my boyfriend, Virgil.” He smiled warmly and after Thomas ordered for their table, they talked about everything and anything for the rest of the evening.
The one part of the conversation that Logan always remembered was when they had all received their food and Thomas asked,
“So, come on! Spill the gossip! What’s your favourite thing about each other??” Thomas and Nico were leaning forward, intent on hearing the answer. Logan looked at Virgil, he could only pick one thing? This is going to be difficult. They both stopped eating so they could think of an answer.
“He makes me laugh, on my worst days, he always knows how to make me smile.” Logan was surprised that Virgil spoke first, but he beamed proudly at him. That was a really sweet statement, Nico and Thomas clearly agreed as they shrieked at how adorable it was.
“Yes, he keeps me grounded. There’s no one else’s opinion I care about more than his, he listens to me and no one has ever made me feel as happy as he does.” Logan smiled fondly as Virgil’s eyes welled up with tears slightly. Thomas and Nico had to contain themselves and Thomas clutched his chest as they both cheered.
“Ahh my heart! You two are absolute cuteness overload. Nico, we don’t need desert… these two are sweet enough! Quick, Logan. Hand me your phone, I want to get you a picture of the two of you!” While Logan handed Thomas his phone, Nico snuck off to go and grab the waitress. Logan moved his chair so he was next to Virgil, held his hand and the two of them smiled at the camera and Thomas took a ridiculous number of photos in the process.
“I thought we could get a photo of the four of us? You are our new best friends after all!” Nico asked excitedly, there was absolutely no way they could or would have said no. They all stood up and gathered around the table beaming at the camera, and as they then paid for the bills, they checked the photos and Logan agreed to send them on. He took their phone numbers and gave them Virgil’s as well before heading out hand in hand with Virgil.
As they drove back to Virgil’s apartment, he couldn’t help but notice how much Virgil’s eyes were sparkling, it truly was a beautiful evening. The music was blaring again, and even Logan sang along this time. They reached the apartment way too quickly, he didn’t want to leave yet, but they both got out of the car slowly and walked to the door agonizingly slow. He took both of Virgil’s hands and mustered up all of his courage…
“This might sound crazy, but after tonight I feel like I can say this with absolute confidence. I cannot picture my life without you, and I think it’s very clear now. I love you, with every fibre of my being.” As soon as those words left his lips, he knew that it was right, he didn’t mind if Virgil didn’t say it yet. He just wanted him to know that he was loved and cherished.
“I feel exactly the same, I didn’t want to say it because I thought it would be too early on and I didn’t want to scare you off. I love you too, to the ends of the unknown universe and back.” He felt a weight lift off his shoulders and he pulled Virgil in for a passionate kiss which was eagerly reciprocated. He pulled away and smiled fondly at Virgil who was beaming back at him. He slowly stepped backwards allowing their hands to disconnect as he practically walked on air back to his car.
Logan snapped out of that memory and looked around desperately trying to find Virgil before realizing he wasn’t there right now. That was a perfect night, almost as perfect as their wedding day. There were so many signs that he missed, why did he ignore them? He shut his eyes tight and grounded himself to reality. He needed to clear up the mess first before he even considered remembering the most beautiful day of their life. His phone lit up with some pointless news article, he probably needed to talk to someone before he spiraled into living a fantasy.
Who did he really want to talk to though? Thomas and Nico? Or Virgil?
#ts fanfic#long post#new chapter#assassin au#ts Logan au#ts virgil au#ts c!thomas au#ts nico au#tw alcohol#tw injury mention#fluff#memories
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Adore You - Rafe Cameron x Reader
(my gif)
Maaterlist
Word count: 1,429
Warnings: THIS IS SO FLUFFY
A/n: This. is. My. dream. Date. Also this is based off of Adore You by Harry Styles. Expect some more imagines inspired by his songs, because I'm a Harry Styles stan now :)
Summary: Rafe takes you on a date to a carnival.
You were finally going to go on your dream date. A carnival date was something you pictured thousands of times. It was a day dream that played over and over in your head for years. The thought of going on cheap carnival rides, getting cotton candy, and having your date win you a prize to take home was the ideal date for you, and the fact that it was going to happen with your boyfriend tonight made you ecstatic.
You were currently in Rafes car, your hand in his as you drove. The sun was setting painting the sky orange and pink. Your other hand was out the window, and your hair was blowing in the wind. You had a smile on your face as the car blasted Adore You by Harry Styles. Every time Rafe looked over at you he felt butterflies in his stomach. You were so beautiful to him. He really would walk through fire for you. You had him wrapped around your finger,
You finally arrived at the carnival, the lights of the rides glowing, and it took everything to stop yourself from letting out a squeal of excitement. You hopped out of the car running to Rafe enveloping him in a quick hug, and a peck to the lips.
“You are about to fulfill my dream date, and I love you so much” you beamed, your arms wrapped around his neck.
“I love you more” he smiled pecking your lips again. You pulled away and he laced your hand with his, and you made your way to the entrance. When Rafe got to the entrance he paid the fee, and bought wristbands so you could ride all the rides for the night. You unlaced your fingers so he could wrap the wristband around your wrist. One it was secure he gave your wrist a small kiss, and you blushed at the gesture. You grabbed the other bracelet, and wrapped it around his wrist, and then your hand was back in his.
“So what are we doing first babe” he asked you, and you looked around trying to figure out what part of your fantasy you wanted to fulfill first.
“How do you feel about haunted houses?” you responded.
“Love them, sure you won’t get too scared” he teased, and you laughed pushing his body playfully.
“Well I have my strong boyfriend to protect me” you giggled, and he smiled at you giving your hand a slight squeeze. You walked to the haunted house which you knew would be corny, and short, it was part of your day dreams so you had to do it. The worker directed you to go in and you gestured to Rafe to go in first, because there was no way you were leading, and he laughed. You weren’t scared, but you knew the jump scares would get you.
Rafe led you into the dark hallway that was lit up by strobe lights. You found one of your hands intertwined with his, and the other hand was wrapped around his firm bicep, as you prepared yourself for a jump scare. When you turned the corner a clown jumped out making you scream, and Rafe jumped pulling you as close as possible. Rafe started to walk again, and you got a little further, and a skeleton fell from the wall making Rafe jump, and you laughed, and he stuck his tongue out at you.
“I wasn’t ready for that” he yelled over the sounds of screams and chain saws.
“Guess I might have to do the protecting” you teased, and he rolled his eyes. You then walked past what you thought was a statue until it moved with a screech making you scream, and wrap your arms around his torso. You could see the light at the end of the house, and Rafe quickly made his way to the exit. When you got out you took a breath, and both bursted into laughter, as you walked from the house.
“I’m calling it, we're getting cotton candy next” Rafe said, dragging you towards the stand that was selling it. He asked the lady at the stand for an order of cotton candy, and she handed it to you as Rafe paid. You both thanked her, and headed to a bench. He sat down, and you took a seat right next to him, your thighs touching. You tore a piece of the cotton candy off, and let it melt on your tongue. Rafe then took a handful placing it in his mouth.
“This is so bad for you, but it just tastes so good’ he bubbled, and you giggled. He took another piece, and this time he gestured for you to open your mouth, and he placed the piece of cotton candy in your mouth, and you blushed at the cute gesture. You both continued to eat the cotton candy, and Rafe ended up putting his arm around yours, and you placed your head on his shoulder loving the feeling of being close to his body. Once you both had finished the cotton candy he got up, and threw away the stick. He came back to the bench holding out his hand for you to grab like a price. You giggled grabbing it, and he pulled you into his body giving you a sweet, and slow kiss.
“You taste like cotton candy,” he stated.
“Really, I would have never guessed” you smiled sarcastically.
“So what are we doing next” he asked, your arms were still around his neck playing with the ends of his hair, and his hands were on your hips. The sun was now completely down, and you looked to the left of Rafe to see the large ferris wheel changing colors as it spun slowly.
“I’d say it’s time to ride the ferris wheel” and nodded. You grabbed his hand, and you pulled him excitement coursing through your veins. The thought of kissing him on the ferris wheel made you feel like you were in your own 80s coming of age film. The line was a bit long, so as you waited you wrapped your arms around his torso, and leaned your head against his chest closing your eyes to the feeling of his hands soothingly rubbing your back. When the line finally moved Rafe pushed you slightly, and you began to walk. When it was finally your turn to get on the Ferris Wheel Rafe got on first, and then you followed. The person working the Wheel secured your cart, and you began to move. Rafe wrapped his arm around you, and pulled your body into his. You had your head cuddled into his shoulder, and Rafe had his head turned to look at you. He was always amazed by how beautiful you were. He adored you.
“You are the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen” he whispered to you, and you turned your head to look into his ocean blue eyes. You felt your cheeks heat up, and you knew your face was turning into a deep red.
“Stop you’re making me blush” you cried putting your face into his neck.
“I’ll never stop, I adore you” he swooned, and your stomach was doing back flips. He placed his hand on your cheek, and lifted it to force you to look at him again. He thought you were adorable when you were embarrassed. You leaned into the touch of his hand closing your eyes.
“God I love you” you breathed.
“Not as much as I love you” and with that he put his lips on yours as your cart reached the top of the wheel. You placed both your hands on his cheeks and turned your body as much as you could to face him. He was using his thumb to stroke your cheek, and everything felt perfect. The feeling of bliss made you feel alive. The only thing that mattered was the honey-haired boy whose lips were on yours. Rafe loved the feeling of your lips against his. You tasted like strawberries, and you smelled like vanilla, and the only thing he ever wanted to do was adore you. When you pulled from the kiss you rested your forehead on his. The feeling of his warm breath making you feel at home. You then separated your foreheads, and snuggled back into his boy enjoying the view of the carnival lights illuminating the sky. All you could think of was how one day you were going to marry him. You adored him just as much as he adored you.
#rafe cameron#rafe cameron x reader#rafe cameron imagine#drew starkey#drew starkey imagine#drew starkey x reader#outerbanks#outer banks#outer banks imagine
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Together
Chapter 4 to 100 Promises
Chapter 3 | Chapter 5
It's going to start off where chapter... 2? Left off. I think it was chapter 2 anyways.
Warnings: swearing, weapons, and I think that's it. This chapter isn't that bad.
You feel down to the floor, staring out to the person standing on the balcony. 'Why did I have fucking glass see through doors? Oh fuck my taste in aesthetics!' You thought, looking around a bit panicked, looking for any type of solutions. You quickly crawled besides the bed, hoping they didn't see you. They did. It was to dark out without any lights, so you couldn't see any specific features, other than they were tall, and had some sort of weapon. "Please be locked please be locked please be locked," you muttered, grabbing the dagger you had from the game. The person turned the doorknob from the outside, opening the door. "Oh, fuck me!" You shouted standing up, pointing the dagger at them. "Try me bitch, see what happens! I am not afraid to stab you!"
"Woah there. Didn't think you'd hate me that much," they said, laughing. You recognized that voice. That laugh. You'd know it from anywhere, although it sounded a bit more... confident.
"Niragi?" You asked, hopeful in his answer. "That's me," he said, finally stepping into the part of your room that had enough light from the moon to see. You dropped the dagger, your eyes widening. "You're not? You're not dead," you whispered, walking over to him. "Dead? Why would I be-" he started, before you hugged him tightly. He could feel the shaky breaths you were taking, and decided now wasn't the time. "You stupid fuck, I thought you were dead!" You suddenly shouted, pushing him away. "Yeah? Well, I thought you were safe back home you dumb bitch!" He shouted back. You two looked at each other with a straight face for a few seconds before bursting into laughter.(that's how you know you're best friends UwU)
"I'm so glad I found you! Well... you found me? I don't know, I don't care. How did you find me?" You asked, watching as he walked around your old room. "An educated guess," he said. You laughed watching as he walked around. "I'm guessing all your stuff is at our apartment?" He guessed. You nodded. "Not like I would need it. Also, what's with the gun? And how did you find out I was even here?" You asked, it suddenly dawning on you there was no possible way he could've known. "To your first question, I'll answer in a bit. To your second question, a... Cheshire cat of sort, I guess you could say," he answered with a smirk. "Cheshire cat? The only person who I've even talked to is- wait... that little! Does he have really blonde, almost white hair and a very condescending look all the time? Pretty short?" You asked, getting a bit angry at the thought that someone had lied to you, and you hadn't caught on. "Uh.. yeah? Wait, do you know him?" It was Niragi's turn to be confused. "That little bitch! He told me- hmph! I'm going to kick his ass off a roof next time I see him!" You yelled in anger. Niragi knew when you got angry to let you rant. You were scary when you were angry. He learned that pretty early on, and learned to stay out of your way when you want to deal with someone. "Yeah, he has that effect on people. He pisses me off. Chishiya... he's well, Chishiya. Thinks he's better than everyone sometimes, I swear," Niragi said. You stopped your rant with a sigh. "Sorry. This is kind of a new situation. Don't know how to deal with it," you muttered sitting on the edge of your bed. Another thing Niragi noticed early on was that you didn't do exceptional with change. "It's human nature to adapt to new things. Just takes you a bit longer. And from what I heard, you did great for your first game," Niragi said as he sat next to you. "Who- oh... Chishiya... Where have you been staying since the games started?" You asked, looking at him curiously. "That's actually what I came here to talk about. Basically, it's a 'safe haven' called the Beach. Players go there, we all play the games when assigned, collect the cards, and give them to Hatter, the leader. Basically communism," he explained. "The fuck?" Were your only words. He laughed. "The more games you play, the more cards you collect, or the more useful you are to the Beach, the higher you wristband number. Right now, we think that if we collect a complete deck of cards, a person can leave. The number 1 leaves first, then we all go up a number," he kept explaining, showing you his wrist band. "4? What did you do to get up that high?" You asked, amazed at his high ranking. "Played the games. Oh, and I guess I'm part of the milital sect, so there's that," he said. He found it cute how you were so excited about something so... irrelevant to him. He had always found it interesting how your emotions could go like the flip of a switch. You could be a total badass one second and the next be curled up under blankets acting cute.
"You're so mean to me!" You pouted, crossing your arms over your chest. He could only laugh in response. "Jerk! I'll lock you out!" You shouted, stomping your foot. He knew you were lying, and you wouldn't. Or, at least he thought so.
"(Y/N), it's been 3 hours, come on I'm sorry," he apologized for what seemed to be the hundredth time to him. You really had locked him out on the balcony. You sat in front of the glass doors, sticking your tongue out at him. "(Y/N), you're 17, not 5 for God's sake, let me in already! You're being really annoying right now!" He shouted, getting angry at you now. Not something that happened very often. You tilted your head to the side, and frowned. You unlocked the door and opened it. He came into the room, and you went and sat on your bed. "Fucking finally..." he whispered to himself. He heard you say something under your breath.
"What was that?" He asked, looking at you. " 'M sorry... don't be mad. I didn't mean to be annoying," you whispered loud enough for him to hear. He suddenly regretted his choice of words from earlier. Being childish sometimes was how you expressed your feelings. You didn't get to be or act like a child when you were younger, so with him, you felt like you could be. He realized that you trusted him enough to do that, and he had been rude about it. "I'm not mad at you. I shouldn't have used those words, I know it's just you being you," he said, sitting down besides you. "I'm sorry I locked you out..." you muttered an apology as you hugged him. "Apology accepted. And I'm sorry for what I did for you to lock me out, and for what I said," he apologized, hugging you back. "You just... it scared me, I thought you had actually... actually done that," you whispered. "I'm thought you'd left me..."
He had remembered that day more than most because it showed how much he actually mattered to you. Back then, when he thought he was worthless and how no one would miss him if her were gone, you did. You had always cared, since the first day he met you. It was one thing he liked about you. The way you cared about people, even if they didn't deserve to be cared about. Sure, you had trouble accepting apologies from people who had hurt you, but it didn't stop you from being nice when needed.
"Yumi? Are you alright?" You asked, seeing one of your bullies crying. "G-get away from me freaks," she had stuttered, wiping away the tears. Niragi tried to pull you away. He knew what this girl had said to you. She was always making fun of you, how you looked, your weight.(I mean, I didn't make the reader plus sized(I'll keep it as neutral as possible), but the more I write, the more I want to. Niragi gives me vibes of the skinny guys who love chubby/plus size women. Aka, the best kind of guy) Anything to make you feel bad about yourself. "Let's just go..." he whispered, trying to pull you away. You shook his hand off, walking over to her. "Yumi-San, what's wrong?" You asked, reaching in your bag, finding a tissue and handing it to her. She blew her nose into it. "M-my boyfriend broke up with me. But it's none of your concern, freak," she sniffled. You both knew who her boyfriend was. One of the guys who was in your main group of tormentors. "Oh honey... a pretty girl like you shouldn't cry over trash like him. You are a solid 11/10, he doesn't deserve the tears," you said, taking another tissue, and drying her tears. Even though she was always so rude to you, you had to admit she was a beautiful girl. She had short back hair that was just above her shoulders, and beautiful brown eyes. She didn't like makeup, so she never wore it, so it made her beauty natural. She wasn't curvy, and made a lot of girls look up to her, as she was actually pretty flat chested. She was incredibly smart as well. All in all, she was simply a teenage girl that was attractive to most guys. And a part of you liked that she wasn't the normal beauty standard, because it was just so badass to you. She hadn't used her looks to get ahead either. She was just mean. You had always thought she was pretty, even if she was mean. "If he can't see how pretty you are, then he's not the one for you," you said. "W-why are you being so nice to me? I- I'm always so mean to you," she stuttered. You stopped to think for a second, and looked back at Niragi. He walked over to you, and stood besides you. "Ok... mm... 'M being nice to you 'cause... I wanna be. No one deserves to feel unwanted. And besides, my karma stays clean," you smiled. She laughed. Not a mocking laugh, not a rude laugh, not a fake laugh. You told her some joke to make her feel better, and she started laughing even harder. Her real laugh, not the fake preppy laugh she always did. She snorted, and covered her mouth in embarrassment. "You should laugh like that more often. Your real laugh is so nice," you complemented. Yumi had always hated her laugh, as it wasn't the cute laugh that was described in books. But, then again, neither was yours. "Bye bye Yumi! Hope you feel better soon!" You shouted, waving back at her as you and Niragi left. She smiled to herself, waving back at you.
"I want to take a nap," you muttered as you got closer to your house. "You are something else, you know?"
"If... if I go with you right now, I don't think I'd be that helpful. I've only played in one game after all," you stated. Niragi thought for a moment. He'd talked about you, Chishiya would most certainly talk about you seeing as he would never bring someone from a game up unless they were interesting, and once you showed how you could play, he was sure you'd get a high rank. "I've got my ways. You coming with me, or not?" He asked, getting up.
"Yeah. I don't want to be alone again. Or at least without you again. That's 6 months of my life I didn't have my best friend you asshat."
"That wasn't my fault, I had no say in it!"
"Fuck you."
"This is a personal attack on my hp, you're lowering my health bar with your mean comments."
"Nerd."
"Bitch."
You two basically walked back to the beach like that. Most of the way, anyways. You two knew you meant none of the words, it was just your way of talking to each other. In a playful way.
He had taken you up to a room that had a table with chairs around. In there had been 5 people. One with long ish hair, sunglasses, and a colorful robe, another with tattoos covering his body, a woman with a white, sleeveless button up shirt with black shorts, a man dressed in a black tank top and what you would call 'drill Sargeant pants', and well, you knew the last one. "You little bastard!" You shouted, seeing his smirk. "Everyone, this is (L/N) (Y/N), the girl I told you about,'' Chishiya introduced you, ignoring your words. Niragi held your arm to keep you back from hurting Chishiya. He wanted to see it, but he also didn't want you to die. "Ah, lovely! We've heard about you. All good things, all good things," the man in the robe exclaimed. You smiled a bit, seeing as he seemed to be a person who was a fan of the theatrics. He seemed fun. "That's Hatter. The leader, as I told you earlier," Niragi whispered to you. You nodded. "That's the dissection freak, or Ann," he whispered again, nodding his head over to the woman with black hair."That's Aguni. He's the leader of the milital sect. So, basically, my boss," Niragi whispered again, pointing at him. "And that's Last Boss. We're sort of friends?" He whispered making a gesture to the man with tattoos. "Ah... ok. So, these are all members of the militals?" You asked him quietly. "No, Ann and Chishiya are part of the executives. Aguni is leader of the militals. If you want to work with weapons, that's who you have to impress," Niragi explained. Chishiya had walked over in the time you'd been talking, and only got your attention by tapping your shoulder. You glared down at him. He looked you up and down. "Are you wearing heels, or are you just that tall?" He questioned. You stared down at him. "I'm just this tall?" You said confused. He hummed walking away. Niragi tried to keep his laughter in, and you immediately noticed. You flipped him off, and he acted offended. "So are you two... together?" Hatter asked, noticing you two were standing closely, you went knocked out or trying to kill Niragi. "Together? Like... a relationship? No. Friends? Yes," you said, grabbing his arm. 'Mhm... friends for now.' Ann thought. "We've heard from both Chishiya and Niragi that you're good with weapons?" Ann asked, keeping everyone on track. You nodded. "Which ones?" She asked
You took a big breath, beginning your list, "Knives, swords, bow and arrow, mace, guns I could go into which type if you would like, daggers, throwing knives, crossbow, and many many more but I don't want to bore you."
The room went quiet. "Well... um... that's quite the list. What games have you played in?" Hatter questioned. "Just one... the game with Chishiya," you said, looking down, playing with your- well, technically it was Niragi's, but you thought he was dead, so in your defense, you thought you would never feel the comfort of your best friend's hugs. "Ah, the five of spades, correct?" Hatter asked, more towards Chishiya than you. You both nodded. "Well, before anything, you must know the rules of the Beach. 1, you must wear a swimsuit," he started. "Woah, Woah woah, sorry to interrupt you, but um... why? And uh... he's not wearing one," you stated, pointing at Niragi. "Oi, don't throw me under the bus you dumb whore," he insulted with a smile. You know he didn't mean it in a rude way. Again, you two were best friends. "Sir, I have more blackmail on you than you can think of don't go there with me. For instance I caught you m-" you started, before Niragi put a hand over your mouth. "And that's enough from you. You were saying?" He said, directing his attention back to Hatter. "Uh... what was I saying? Oh yes, he's a milital and carries that gun around so he can't hide weapons. He has access to them, 2 all the cards you collect get handed into me, and 3 Death to the traitors," he finished. You licked Niragi's hand which was still over your mouth. He immediately took his hand off. "Ew! Disgusting!" He shouted, wiping his hand off. You laughed, and everyone else in the room smiled. Especially Hatter. He liked you already. Not in a creepy way, but he enjoyed that you weren't scared. "Anywho, alright. Swimsuit,cards to you, death to the traitors," you repeated. "Good girl," Chishiya said, a teasing tone obvious in his voice. "Tomorrow, you'll be going to a game with Aguni and An. They will decide your skills so we know where to put you. For know, I'm sure that Niragi wouldn't mind showing you to an empty room, and getting you changed into our 'uniform'," Hatter said. "By empty room, you mean she's staying with me until she gets her number, right?" Niragi asked. That's what he wanted, for you to stay with him. You two had almost 6 months of talking to catch up on. "Oki! Come on bubs, lead the way!" You shouted, grabbing his hand. He rolled his eyes, leading you out.
"I bet you guys anything they'll get together," Hatter stated after you two left. "Oh thank the gods I wasn't the only one who thought so," Ann breathed. You two had quite the overwhelming personalities. "I'm sure. She's a smart girl though. From what I saw, she's a potentially strong player for diamonds and hearts," Chishiya stated, watching the spot you had just stood at. "Oh, I think so too. Aguni, what do you think?" Hatter asked, turning his attention to his stoic friend. "We'll have to wait and see for tomorrow," he responded.
Anyways, this is on Wattpad and AO3 as well, I hope you're all having a lovely day/evening
#niragi suguru#niragi × reader#i think its good?#alice in borderland#please dont judge me ^_^#100 Promises
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Cruel Summer, Part 14
cruel summer masterlist
AN: I wrote this chapter in the wrong POV first and then decided I had to rewrite it. I’m not in love with it, but it’s a smidge longer than a usual chapter. Sorry if it meanders. I tried to get to a point lol. We’re getting to a POINT, and Aelin and Rowan are just fighting me on getting there every step of the way. Sigh. Anywayyy, hope you enjoy this fluffy nonsense chapter.
Rowan drives up the Ashryver’s driveway and takes a deep breath. It’s been three full days since Rowan dropped the “E” word on Aelin and three whole days since they’ve seen each other alone. He’s relieved he didn’t scare her off with his exclusivity question, but he’s on edge for their day together.
Today, Aelin is taking Rowan to Ashryver Playland as her guest. Just the two of them, and Rowan can’t help but feel nervous. They’ll be together. Out in public. Just the two of them. Like a real date. Neither of them have acknowledged that it’s a date, but… that’s what it is.
He grabs his baseball hat and covers his hair before walking up the front steps and ringing the doorbell. Rhoe answers the door with a friendly smile and welcomes him in.
As they cross the foyer and make their way into the kitchen, Rowan can’t help but hear Aedion’s low voice ask – “Sam, who’s Sam?”
Rowan’s heart picks up pace as Evalin gushes in response. “Oh, Aelin. Have you been seeing Sam? “He’s so perfect for you,” she continues. “I was hoping there might be a spark there.”
“No, um—” Aelin interjects, but her Evalin bowls her over, continuing her praise for the boy next door. Rowan’s stomach sinks.
“He’s just so responsible and well-spoken, and so good looking,” Evalin rambles. “And what a story for your children! That you used to know each other in your youth and then reconnected twenty years later? And I think he’s going to be such a good influence on you. With him heading his father’s company, you could take the time to really decide what you want to do with your future. If you want to get involved with philanthropy, or write, or be a stay at home mother, or—”
Rhoe coughs as he leads Rowan into the kitchen, interrupting his rambling wife. “Look who I found outside.”
“Rowan!” Evalin throws him a wide smile. “What a lovely surprise. Aelin, you didn’t tell us Rowan was coming to the park with us today.”
Rowan ducks his head and sticks his hands into his shorts pockets, feeling uncomfortable. He looks around the kitchen. It’s a full house today. Lysandra and Aedion sit at the kitchen table, finishing their breakfast while Gavin and Evie throw a toy back and forth for Fleetfoot.
Aelin finishes her last sip of coffee and stands from the table. She looks effortlessly beautiful, per usual, Rowan can’t help but notice. Her loose tank top and cut offs display her tanned skin prominently, and her golden hair is up in its signature high ponytail.
“That’s because he’s not,” Aelin tells her mom. “I mean. We’re not coming with you. Rowan’s never been to the park as a patron before, and I wanted to give him a full Aelin-style day. Not going on all the kid rides. No offense.”
Aedion holds up his hands and nods. “No offense taken. Those rides are the worst.”
Rowan ducks his head bashfully, slightly horrified that Aelin is making him look bad in front of her family, who clearly already wants her together with Sam. “Aelin didn’t tell me you were going as a family. I’m sorry,” he apologizes. “I didn’t mean to disrupt your plans…”
Evalin looks like she’s going to insist they join them when Rhoe closes his paper and looks up at Rowan. “Nonsense. You two have fun.”
Evalin looks meaningfully at Aelin. “Is Sam going to be joining you, too, Fireheart?”
“Mom! No,” Aelin groans, frustrated. “Leave it alone.” She throws an apologetic glance at Rowan, but he ignores it. He should have known her mom would be Team Sam.
Aedion breaks the tension, asking his sister if they’ll see them back at the house for fireworks.
We’ll see you back here for fireworks?”
“Fireworks?” Rowan asks.
“Ashryver Playland celebrates the Fourth on July 2nd, for some reason,” Aelin explains.
“Permits,” her mother says.
“Anyway,” Aelin continues. “Today the park sets off the most amazing fireworks over the water, and we happen to have a perfect view from our back patio.”
“Have fun,” Rhoe calls out as Aelin leads Rowan out the back door and onto the beach.
“Sorry about that,” Aelin apologizes once they’re out of sight. Rowan shrugs her off, but he can’t stop hearing Evalin’s excitement at the idea that Aelin could be dating Sam. It’s the last thing his inferiority complex needs. But he’s determined to have a good time today, so he shakes off the negativity and focuses completely on the gorgeous girl beside him. He grins when she slips her hand into his as they walk side-by-side.
At the ticket booth, Elide welcomes the two of them with an over the top smile. “Well, well, well. Rowan, I didn’t expect to see you on your day off. How ever did Aelin convince you of this?”
Rowan shrugs, not really sure what to say, but Aelin rolls her eyes. “Oh my gods, Elide, just tell him you know and be done with it.”
Rowan barks out a short laugh and can feel his cheeks heating as Elide gives him a wink. He thinks that’s a good sign? That Aelin has told another one of her friends, who isn’t Dorian. He hopes. Aelin smiles as she holds her wrist out for a wristband and motions for Rowan to do the same. “Have fun you two,” Elide calls after them as Aelin leads him into the park.
“What first?” Rowan asks, and Aelin drags him to the Firecoaster. Fenrys is taking tickets for the ride, and he grins when he sees Rowan and Aelin at the top of the line.
“Fen, can we sit in the front?” Aelin asks, bouncing on her toes. Fenrys nods and lets a group of people through, holding Aelin and Rowan back so they can be first onto the next car.
Rowan looks down at her and pauses. “Uhhh, we don’t have to do that.”
Aelin snorts. “Are you…scared?”
“I don’t love rollercoasters,” Rowan admits, and Fenrys laughs outright. “I’m too tall, and I feel like I’m going to topple out of the seat,” he says, rushed.
Aelin laughs and grabs his hand. “Don’t worry. I’ll protect you.”
“You better,” Rowan grumbles. “If I fall out, I’m taking you with me.”
Fenrys pouts. “You know, Aelin, I’m hurt. You’ve never taken me to the park.” Aelin ruffles his hair and pats his cheek.
“Maybe next year, champ.” She laughs. “You’re still not old enough to ride all the rides,” she teases him.
Fenrys sticks out his tongue. “Don’t know why you hang out with this one,” Fenrys tells Rowan. “She’s cruel.”
The next car comes to a stop in front of them, and Fenrys lets them on. Aelin eagerly leads Rowan to the front and slips in. Rowan awkwardly gets in after her, forcing himself into the cramped seat, his knees squishing against the front. His shorts ride up uncomfortably, and he tries to adjust them quickly.
“How are you comfortable?” he asks, looking at Aelin, who is beaming with excitement. ”I have a perma-wedgie just from trying to sit.”
“It helps that I’m not wearing panties,” Aelin says coolly, and Rowan bumps his knee hard against the top of the car.
“What?!”
As Rowan hisses in pain, Aelin breaks out into laughter, her cheeks flushing. She leans over and grabs his arm. “I’m kidding, but oh my gods, your face.”
Her eyes darken as she looks at him, and desire pools in Rowan’s stomach. She forces herself to look away, which is good because Rowan was tempted to say fuck it all and kiss her in broad daylight. Instead, he rests his hand on her knee and leans toward her.
“Fenrys was right. Cruel,” he says, his eyes boring holes into the side of her head.
Rowan barely has time to see her smiling reaction as the ride takes off. His stomach flips as they hit their first dip. He wasn’t kidding when he said he didn’t love rollercoasters. Instead of panicking, he looks at Aelin, whose eyes are wide with glee as they round every turn and hit every dip. Her hair flies behind her, and her arms are up in the air. Rowan holds the bar in front of him tightly, and breathes deeply. When the ride finally stops, Aelin’s smile makes the ride worth it.
She grabs his hand and drags him to the next ride. He’d ride the rollercoaster a thousand times if it meant her hand in his in public again. They make a large circle, doing all of the “big” rides first – the log flume, the whip, the starship 2000. They pretend to race each other on the Derby Carousel, and it doesn’t take long for Rowan to see the appeal of coming to the park. Even his grouchy self has to admit the rides are fun. Though it’s mostly because he’s never seen Aelin this carefree or relaxed or unselfconscious. She’s casually touched him so many times he’s lost count, and each time he’s surprised.
“I’m starving,” Aelin says after they get off the Wyvern Flyers. “Lunch?”
Rowan’s stomach grumbles loudly, as if on cue. They head to the nearest snack bar and by chance end up behind Aedion and Lysandra. Rowan has barely met Aelin’s brother and sister-in-law, but they seem nice enough. He’d planned on buying Aelin lunch, but Aedion insists on buying whatever they want. Rowan tries to fight him on it, but Aedion is having none of it. The only payment he asks is for Aelin and Rowan to have lunch with them.
After they get their burgers and fries and sodas, the four of them make their way to the eating tent, out of the sun.
“So, what have you been up to this summer, Ae?” Aedion asks. “We’ve barely seen you.”
“Or should we ask who you’ve been up to?” Lysandra asks, a wicked grin on her face. She glances at Rowan, and Rowan conveniently takes a large bite of his burger.
Aedion lights up. “Oh, yeah. Tell us about this Sam character that mom was going on about.”
Rowan focuses intently on chewing and not reacting in the slightest. Aelin rolls her eyes at her brother. “Sam is our neighbor. If anything he’s a friend. Mom is just being mom.”
“Yeah, but friendship can evolve,” Aedion says. “Look at me and Lys.”
Lysandra sticks her middle finger up at her husband. “Leave me out of this. Don’t let anyone pressure you, Aelin.” She gives Aelin a meaningful look. “Date whoever you want.”
“Fuck that,” Aedion says with a laugh. “I’ll pressure you all I want. It’s my gods-given right as your older sibling. I’ll make the final call after meeting him for real. We’re all supposed to go to his family’s party this week.” Aedion looks to Rowan, finally. “What do you think of him, Rowan?”
“Sam?” Rowan asks, swallowing the rest of his bite. Aedion nods. Everyone looks at him expectantly. “He’s fine?”
Lysandra cackles loudly. “So he’s a jerk.”
“I said no such thing,” Rowan responds too fast, and Lysandra laughs again. Aelin joins in and pats his knee under the table.
Lysandra commandeers the conversation away from the boy nex tdoor, sensing Rowan’s discomfort. She notices his shirt and asks him about his time in the Army, which he gives a short summary of. He finds that talking about himself is easier in front of Lysandra. He doesn’t feel like he’s being judged on his low-income job, the way the rest of the Ashryver clan makes him feel. He asks Lysandra what she does, and she excitedly pulls out her phone to show Rowan her Instagram. Apparently she’s a Mommy Blogger with a lifestyle brand. He had no idea those people really existed. But the photos are beautiful. Their family looks perfect in each shot.
“Where’s the rest of our family, by the way?” Aelin finally asks as Rowan scrolls through their pictures.
“Mom and Dad are babysitting until fireworks,” Aedion explains, and Aelin’s eyebrows shoot up, surprised.
“How’d you manage that one?”
Aedion laughs. “We promised we’d have a sleepover at the house tonight in thanks.”
As they all throw their trash away, Aedion asks if he and Lysandra can join Rowan and Aelin on the rest of their rides for the afternoon. Lysandra tries to tell him that they shouldn’t impose on Aelin’s plans, but it’s clear from the glances between the siblings that they want to spend time with each other, and ultimately it’s Rowan who insists they join.
“Are you sure?” Aelin asks, and Rowan nods. It’s not exactly what he’d planned for their day, but he doesn’t want to be the one responsible for pulling Aelin away from her family. He doesn’t need to give them any other reasons to dislike him. He’s clearly already losing the popular race to Sam.
The rest of the day passes quickly. Rowan is happy to finally get to watch Aelin and her brother interact. They seem to love each other a lot, despite their large age gap. Rowan works overtime to make sure he isn’t touching Aelin in their presence, but she somehow can’t help herself. Each brush of her hand sends him into an aroused frenzy, and by the time they reach their final ride, Rowan feels like he’s going to burst with tension.
They approach the ferris wheel just as the sun is going down. Lysandra pulls her husband into a gondola and closes the door behind them. Aedion looks confused. Four can fit to a gondola.
“I want to make out with my husband, so you kids are going to have to take the next one,” Lysandra says with a wink. Aedion laughs and wraps his arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer.
“See you on the ground,” he says with a wave and leans in to kiss his wife. Rowan secretly sends a prayer of thanks to Lysandra for inadvertently giving him exactly what he wants.
Aelin and Rowan slip into the next gondola, and Aelin immediately curls up into Rowan’s side. He exhales with relief as he wraps his arm around her shoulders. As the gondola starts to rise, Aelin puts her chin on his chest.
“Thank you for today,” Aelin says sweetly, and he looks down at her big blue eyes.
“I should be thanking you,” he says. “I did absolutely nothing but use your family’s pass to get into the park.”
“That’s not all you did, and you know it.” Aelin moves her nose against his jaw, her lips ever so close to his neck, but not quite touching. “I know you hadn’t planned on hanging out with my brother. But it meant a lot to me.” She pauses. “I didn’t realize how much I missed him. We usually spend all summer together.”
“He’s pretty cool,” Rowan says. “And I don’t want to take over your summer,” he says, even though it’s a complete lie. “Feel free to tell me to fuck off whenever so you can see your family.”
Aelin bites her lip and adjusts herself to face Rowan more fully. He looks at her face in the blinking light of the amusement park, shaded in pinks and blues and greens. Gods she’s beautiful.
“I don’t want to talk about my family anymore,” Aelin says and leans in to capture Rowan’s lips with hers. It takes him by surprise, but he responds quickly, his mouth moving against hers slowly. He’s been starved for her touch all day, and he’s not going to let the opportunity pass him by. He’s grateful when their gondola comes to a stop, pausing at the top of the wheel. His fingers thread through her hair, and he can feel her smile against his mouth, kissing him with renewed fervor.
They break apart as the wheel continues going and makes its descent. Aelin quickly redoes her ponytail before her brother can see what a mess it’s become with Rowan’s hands in it. She can’t do anything about her swollen lips though, or her flushed cheeks. Rowan hopes Aedion and Lysandra aren’t paying that close attention to them, since they were doing their own canoodling.
By the time they arrive back at the Ashryver’s, the sun has completely gone down and the fireworks are about to start. Evie and Gavin are already showered and in their pajamas as they set up their little chairs on the edge of the patio to watch the show. Gavin waves excitedly at Rowan, and Rowan says hi to the little boy as Aelin disappears inside the house. She comes out with a hoodie and a towel and tells her family that she and Rowan are going to watch from the beach.
The beach is empty when they make their way down to the now-cold sand. Aelin spreads out the blanket and motions for Rowan to sit. He kicks off his shoes and sits next to her. Annoyed, Aelin fixes his legs, so he’s sprawled out enough for her to lean against him. He smiles as she leans into his chest, and he widens his legs so she can fit between them comfortably. They manage to watch about five minutes of the fireworks before Aelin turns around fully and kisses Rowan. He doesn’t even mind that he’s missing the fireworks, since Aelin’s lips are on his, and her arms are wrapped around his neck, and her thighs straddle his.
At the end of the show, Aelin pouts. “I’m sorry you can’t spend the night tonight, but all our rooms are occupied with Aedion and the kids here.”
“It’s fine,” Rowan shrugs, but he’s not anxious to let her go, either.
“You could drive your truck to the street and then come back and hang out for a little bit longer?” she suggests, and though Rowan feels guilty at the suggestion, he doesn’t fight her on it.
They make their way back to the patio, and Rowan wishes the Ashryvers a good night before following Aelin’s instructions and driving his truck down to the street and returning in the darkness to the back of the house.
He makes his way through the garden gate and to the rose lattice that winds its way up to Aelin’s room. He awkwardly pulls himself up, fearful for his life as his feet find their footholds in the wooden trellis. But sure enough, he’s able to make his way onto her balcony.
He pants loudly as Aelin lets him into her room with a soft giggle, and his eyes roam her half-naked body, which is already clad in a barely there nightgown.
Rowan groans. “Cruel. I can’t have sex with you while your family is across the hall,” he says with the utmost regret.
“You had no problem with my parents being upstairs before,” Aelin pouts. “And I haven’t been with you in so many days…” She grips his shirt and pulls him closer. He can’t think clearly with her this close. He tries to remember all the reasons he was supposed not to have sex with her tonight, but he can’t.
He hasn’t been inside Aelin since the last time he slept over at her house, which was almost a full week ago. He wants her, badly. It takes little convincing to get Rowan into her bed. They take their time, exploring each other with their hands and tongues, savoring each inch and making up for lost time. As he enters her, Aelin’s mouth widens into a silent scream, and they move together silently, making sure not to make a single sound, even as they fall of the precipice of pleasure.
Sweaty and exhausted, Rowan knows he needs to drive home before he falls asleep under her covers. He looks at the time. Nearly 2 am. And he has work tomorrow. He sadly extracts himself from her grasp and kisses her one last time.
“Don’t go,” she says.
“I have to,” he replies sadly. “But I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Satisfied, Aelin’s eyes finally close, and she mumbles out a goodnight, and Rowan stares at her for a second. He’s falling so hard. He’s never felt like this before. Like he doesn’t want to let her out of his sight. With a sad sigh, he turns to the balcony and makes his way into the night and back down the trellis to the garden. He hits the ground with a loud thud and looks around, praying no one heard him.
He smells the cigarette smoke just before he sees Lysandra’s green eyes widen in shock. She sits on the bench below Aelin’s balcony, smoking, in a thin robe, barely lit under the twinkle lights of the rose garden. Rowan freezes and runs his fingers through his hair, which he’s sure looks a mess.
“It’s… not what it looks like?” he says, and Lysandra cracks a wide smile at him and exhales her cigarette smoke.
“Sure, Romeo,” she quips. And Rowan’s stomach turns into a barrel of nerves as Lysandra looks him up and down. He wonders what she sees. “I won’t tell if you don’t,” she finally says, pointing to her cigarette.
“Deal,” Rowan says. As he drives home, he wonders how the hell he’s going to explain this one to Aelin. She was so adamant on not letting her family know. He really hopes Lysandra can keep a secret. Fuck.
~*~*~*~*~
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Notting Hill ³
Hi guys!!. I'm back, not by popular demand hehe. Well, at least I'm not showing up empty-handed. Hope you enjoy it and if you did please let me know. Yes, it gives me motivation.
This is my participation on my friend’s @lullabieswrappedinlies Rom-Com writing challenge (go check her out, she is so damn creative and amazing). This story is based on the movie Notting Hill and will be added to my MASTERLIST.
"You don't want to talk about it?"
The 'narrow eye move' does not affect people such as Alexis, who remains leaned on the counter, gazing at you from above for the past ten minutes.
She huffed low and kept going. "It's okay if you want to talk about it."
"Alexis... I just want to take care of my store. I want to sit here till it's time to receive Agnes and five more women who will try to make me do coffee runs for them and then, hopefully, or not, I will sell a book or two before Kirk comes in to try to steal something, then I want to close, go home, lay down on my bed and think about the fact that I might go broke somewhere in the next three months."
"Kirk is at it again? Shit, I thought he fled after trying to steal from the stalls."
"He let the beard and hair grow a lot, lost weight, most people still don't know is him, yet, but I'm on it."
Her eyebrows raised and rested.
"Well, if you can prepare for the thieves you can definitely prepare for when-."
You take a long audible breath, rearranging the bills scattered, which made Alexis retrieve for a moment.
"He is not coming. He can be an asshole, but he is not as audacious as Kyle."
There was a hint of confidence flourishing inside your chest, although Alexis's persistence kept accelerating.
"He is famous, that makes you gain some audacity, thinking that it will allure people into doing what you want. I'm just saying, I'm here for you."
"Well, thanks. Did you talked to Kyle yet?"
"Fuck no! He can rot in hell for all I care about. That night was a disaster! The son of a bitch suddenly showing up."
You watch her squeeze her left thumb inside the other palm, harshly, before you shove the pile of bills under the glittery paperweight.
"Did he suddenly realized he wanted to be a father after ten years?"
She lets out a bitter chuckle.
"Appear at my front door with the most ridiculous, bushy mustache, like he just came out of a seventies porno." She huffs aggressively, archiving the blended expression of disgusted and angry.
"I couldn't even recognize him."
"Well, it's been years." You reminisce. " Did you really thought you could avoid it? At some point-."
An, almost discreet, movement next to the shelves interrupts the conversation.
The tired creak of the wooden floor exposed Nova, purposely or not. Judging by the posture shown seemed calculated. She had both hands inside the red apron, combined with a hint of annoyance spread on her features, very clearly portraited.
Alexis is dynamic, remaining natural regarding what her daughter could have listened to.
"Hey baby, are you ready to go?"
Nova sighs and her shoulders go down.
"No mom, I just arrived. What are you doing here?"
"I work next door, Nova."
"Still."
"Well, actually I wanted to take you all to eat something."
Cold lie, easy to spot, mainly because it was a fact that your sister hates to eat out, and that was why your niece's gaze, filled with doubt, was shot in your direction.
It didn't take a lifetime to recognize the type of moves, of which, Alexis would appeal for damage control. She needed to reassure her daughter, keep her on her side.
"She should have told him to go back the same path he came, but no, she just let him in." It was the following thing Nova said to you after arriving from school today, dropping her pink backpack into the ground behind the counter, followed by "I feel like she will accept him back at some point."
There was no remark on exactly when the pendulum of your niece's feelings towards Kyle became so stuck on the pure hatred side, although expected to happen at some point.
The complicated questions completely stopped at the thirteen. Alexis couldn't decide between relief or disbelief till browsing the history bar on the laptop while innocently- as she said- tried to find the recipe for cannolis and instead found Kyle's Facebook page, where he was incredibly active. There were photos, places, friends, trips, a lot of women, one of them Carly Raymond, his highschool sweetheart, who still had a perm.
There was nothing else for Nova to be curious about, and it is not your niece's fault technology was way easier to navigate for information than your sister was.
Alexis reacted cold, in the way you wouldn't expect, not actually trying to salvage the situation because a part of her would never forgive Kyle, the same part that wished Nova did the same.
"Was I supposed to lie to her? Make it worse, make her doubt me too? What he did is hateful, can I blame her? I was the one who always told me he would break her heart no matter what. He didn't even have to come here to do it, and do you think he is ashamed of all that crap online? Traveling, living his life around the world but not being able to come to see her, choosing this 'lifestyle' over here?"
"I know a good, quiet place, that opened down the street."
You ignited, but Nova kept the skeptical stare.
"Sounds great, come on Nov, get this apron off."
"Ok. We will have to talk at some point anyway."
You watch Nova give up, untying the apron behind her back, approaching the counter in slow steps, and leaving it there.
"That's my girl."
"Wait, I have to take something first."
Alexis watches her search inside her backpack as you got up from the chair, taking your sky blue Weichen wristband.
'Closed for lunch' in pink Sans Serif font as Nova made, was hanged on the inside of the glass door before you locked.
"Sorry for the inconvenience", advised to be added on by your niece was revoked by you since no one, not even Agnes would have felt inconvenienced by the closing. You still had the, sometimes, foolish hope of the weekends, when the streets would be fuller than now.
Leading the pace you could only hear Alexis's voice behind your back before you could spot the large Navy blue plaque of Ledbury restaurant and its crowded sidewalk, right next to Walmer Castle pub.
"Guys" You called. "There it is." You pointed front, towards the other side of the street, stopping on the sidewalk as the cars accelerated on the green light.
Turning around you capture your niece's smile as your sister whispered something in her ear. On Nova's hand, there was the same Smithsonian Magazine from this morning.
You forgot to tell Alexis about the way she sounded, reading on the drive to school an extended report about how brains are wired to capture and respond to emotions.
She held the magazine, folded in one hand while eating a Dairy Milk with the other, and in a very 'Alexis' tone discoursed: "Basically is just our brain responding to our way of thinking, even when we anticipate something in our minds. We don't even have to see it."
Your sister still whispered something towards Nova's ear, but the smile placed there died down as she looked, eyes wide, ping-ponging between you and something else that appeared to be amidst the crowd, standing on the other side. She pokes Alexis's arm with emergency.
Spreading as easy as the people starting to move again around you, the same tension, mirrored on their faces, irradiated on the pitch of your stomach right when sister's eyes went cold.
"Excuse-me." You hear, close to your right ear, remaining standing still.
"Oh, my God!" Another voice, a woman's voice as you can now notice as Alexis leaves Nova's side to grab your arm.
The woman's voice sounded alarmed and so does the beats of your heart as more people start murmuring.
"I can't believe it is him."
"Oh! Lord, it is Mike Levine."
Cars started to honk as the crossing street became fuller, and the crowd starting to form began to work as a magnet of more curiosity and obstacles, but Alexis's arm stood strong over your shoulders, navigating and crossing you to the other side.
You wished her arms were stronger than the temptation you blamed for making your back swerve.
There was a moment of not knowing what to expect till you came to realize expectations grew in a matter of seconds. There must be was a reason to want to look back at Mike Levine, surrounded by strangers all over, ungratefully creating an illusion of a time that didn't seem to pass.
He was still the same as you came to see once or twice in a free subscription magazine, but he wasn't plastic anymore.
#RomComWC#RCWC#John Krasinski#john krasinskixreader#john krasinski imagine#original story#mine#notthing hill#IMAGINE#fanfiction#fanfic#interative imagine
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