I DID IT I DID THE THING I WAS TALKING ABOUT IM GOING BANANAS RN!!! IT DOESNT RLY LOOK LIKE HIM BUT ITS FINE ITS FIIIIINE!!!!!!

More than friends | Carter Hart

A/n: Sooo, I was supposed to be done with this piece before our win last night, but my laptop keeps stopping, and the new one only arrives this week, in the meantime I’m stuck with this one and taking longer than ever to write the requests. Anyway, thank you for the patience, and if you want to support my writing, you can always like, reblog and share my posts with a friend you think might like it.

Shout out to Tori for the amazing job proofreading this piece. You’re the best, @guentzgoal​

PS. The songs mentioned in this chapter are Hozier (work song) and Ed Sheeran (friends). 

Requested: Yes

Word count: 2k

Warnings: mention of Friday’s mess aka 5-0 against the Canadiens. 

Summary: You’re the media management to the Philadelphia Flyers, and during the bubble time, you get closer to Carter being the person he runs to after the terrible game that day. You two finally realize something more developed between the friendship.

When everything started to crumble down, he wished for you. He’d imagined that you were probably in your room cuddled up with a bunch of blankets listening to your Hozier-favorites playlist while sipping cold tea. Carter occasionally even wished for everything to be a nightmare, that he was just sleeping on your couch while you watched one of your favorite horror movies, any different situation would be better than the current disaster happening. 

He couldn’t help but blame himself for every little thing. 

He was the one that let the puck reach the net four times, he thought. 

Somehow his head made him sure of this thought when he was pulled off the ice to the bench. He was angry, afflict, and all he wanted was for the team to score at least once or twice, so the loss wouldn’t be as awful as it was feeling at the time. 

But as you would sometimes say to him, “das Leben ist kein Ponyhof,” and even more than to hear your strange sayings, Carter liked to internalize them, because usually, they were great instructions for life. And to think that “life is no pony farm” was useful in times like this, it reminded him that it doesn’t matter how much he wished or worked, sometimes, it wasn’t meant to be. However, it didn’t erase your feelings, and that’s why he was fuming when he closed the door and went to the locker room. 

He tried to look unbothered enough to the media on the aftergame conversation, but on the inside, Carter was drowning in stress and guilt. During the drive back to the hotel, he thought about texting you to let you know he was crashing in your room that night, but he got carried away reading what people were thinking about his performance in the game. 

Most of them hated it.

And so did he.

Carter was thinking about how poorly he played when he knocked at your door, and you probably thought the same, but Carter wanted, no, he needed to see you and hear you, and he was sure you wouldn’t let him down. Your presence always did wonders for him and his self-esteem. He would probably hear “das Leben ist kein Ponyhof,” for the hundredth time, talk about how shitty he was feeling and let you caress his hair, and only this itself would make his day a little better. 

When the door opened to show you wearing a bathrobe, Carter lost his air for a couple of seconds. The mop of curls wet sitting on the top of your head, the dark skin, long lashes, full lips...everything about you was perfect to him, and he cheesily thought that maybe in another lifetime you were his queen and he would bow and adore you like you were the most perfect thing to walk the earth. 

“When my time comes around, lay me gently in the cold dark earth, no grave can hold my body down. I'll crawl home to her” Hozier was softly playing inside your room.  

Carter thought about what to say, but nothing seemed to be enough, nothing made justice to how he was feeling on the inside, but he knew by the look in your eyes that you understood everything, every little detail, every bruise, and every deep and shaky breath. 

You took the bag from his shoulders and dropped it on the side of the door, before grabbing his hand and bringing his body closer. You watched the whole game while working on some management reports, as part of the media management team. You wished you were there. Nevertheless, just like the hockey team, everyone had a specific task, and yours today was writing and studying some more essential ideas discussed previously. You were not expecting Carter to show up at your door so soon. You knew he would eventually come around, and Carter said himself that he preferred to be close to you whenever he felt bad because you knew exactly when to ramble about yourself to take his mind off whatever was bothering him and when to listen to him and give advice. 

As soon as his scent hit your nose, you closed your eyes and enjoyed the hug. He was warm, and his hair was still wet from the shower, the fabric of his suit brought some kind of comfort when it came in contact with your skin and all you wanted to do was hold him until all his anguish was over. 

“You’re okay, we’re okay,” you whispered, peppering kisses along the exposed skin of his neck and jaw, the available surfaces when you crushed against him. 

You felt Carter nod his head, before finally putting a small space between the two of you.

“I’m sorry I forgot to text you to ask if I could just show up and…”

“Hey, it’s fine, we’re friends, no need to stress over this. And yes, you can crash here tonight as long as nobody notices, you know,” you traced his nose and the crease in his eyebrows.

And as much as you noticed every little detail of him, you were not able to see the way his face twitched when you said “friends” because as much as he loved your friendship, he got himself wishing for more in times like these. 

“Thank you,” he whispered, dropping a kiss to your forehead.

You disappeared to take off the moisturizer from your hair, and Carter took the time to make himself comfortable by taking his jacket off along with his shoes, letting the blankets on the couch engulf his body. 

“Das Leben ist kein Ponyhof,” you whispered when you came back. Now dressed in your pajamas and with your hair slightly damp, you lay beside your favorite goaltender on the couch. He dropped his head to your shoulders and made himself small, so you could take care of him the way he liked. And so with your favorite playlist playing and your fingers massaging gently at his scalp Carter fell asleep. 

He woke up with your voice distant, and a playlist still going, although it was not the Hozier one anymore. The room was darker than when he lay there, the only source of light coming from the open windows and one lamp, he noticed that you had lit a candle on the coffee table and that there was also a cup of water sitting there. 

Carter felt cared for and loved. He loved how your little details always made him feel better.

“I called room service, they’re getting our dinner here soon…” you appeared in the room again with your cellphone in your hands. “What’s up?” you asked, laying beside Carter one more time. 

The distance was little, and he thought about the way your friendship worked. It felt like more than friendship, and Carter took his time thinking about how he never sleeps with his friends like he sleeps with you. The way his friends cared about him but never the way you did. How he wanted to kiss you goodbye every time you parted ways and how he wished to just lay with you for as long as possible, just taking your scent in, enjoying your company, and your very specific playlists. 

“Hartsy?” you called again, confused with how he just zoned out. “Is everything okay? What are you thinking about?” 

He shifts on the couch, and now your faces are even closer. “Nothing...I was...this is a good song, never heard it.” 

You chuckled before directing your attention to the lyrics playing as background noise. Your heart did a little double-take, and you couldn’t help but turn your eyes to the face in front of yours.

“Friends just sleep in another bed, and friends don't treat me like you do. Well, I know that there's a limit to everything, but my friends won't love me like you. No, my friends won't love me like you.” 

You shivered when his thumb found your chin bringing your face even closer. It slipped through your face drawing little dots connecting every far end. You enjoyed the feeling, and though his hands were calloused, the pad of his fingertips felt soft and comfortable against your skin.

“Are we friends, or are we more?” his voice was so low you were sure if you weren’t staring at his lips, you would not understand. 

And when his thumb found your lips opening slightly, you closed your eyes, too overwhelmed with the new sensations to bother with an answer. You wanted him to crash the space between your lips and finally dive in, you wanted him to be more than friends, and you wanted to comfort him after everything. 

You wanted Carter and Carter only. 

You wanted to be more than friends.

Carter tested the waters by dipping his face and caressing your nose with his. He liked the way your faces seemed to fit in place, and he was determined to kiss you when the bell rang loudly in your room. 

“I have a saying for this,” you breathed out, wanting to laugh about the situation. “Aller Anfang ist schwer.” 

“And what does that mean?” 

“I’ll let you know later,” you fooled before getting up and going to answer the door.

Your legs were like jelly, and your mind was working at a fast pace, but still, you tried to keep composure.

Eating dinner after that interaction shouldn’t be easy, but it was for you and Carter, so he handled it so well it made you even more sure about how much you liked him. It wasn’t a real talkative dinner, but considering that hours prior, Carter was like a sad puppy, to see him smiling shyly at you was a victory. 

“Can I sleep here tonight?” he asked when you finished. 

“You already did,” you tried to mess with him, and Carter rolled his eyes before getting on the couch again. “Of course you can, Hartsy.” 

And so the rest of the night was just you and Carter randomly talking and listening to your playlist. He didn’t ask his question again, and neither did you, but you knew he was thinking about it when you went to bed. Especially laying there side by side. 

You were used with his naked chest and with his sleep pants, but it felt different that night, and the question keeps replaying in your head. So this time, you were the one to voice it. 

“Are we friends?” you turned to him. 

Carter sat in front of you, grabbing your hands. His fingers were cold against your palm, and you shivered one more time that day. 

“We’ve been ‘friends’ like this for more than a year, and even though I don’t know the turning point I know we are more than that and have been for a long time now,” his voice was firm like he was sure about what he was saying as he thought about it before. Your eyes dropped to your intertwined fingers, and you took a long breath before Carter started talking again. “Friends just sleep in another bed, and friends don’t treat me like you do...everything my friends do to me feels different when it comes to you.” 

It was the blink of an eye before your lips were connected, and you tried containing the growing smile between your lips. Carter’s lips were soft against yours, he felt like a summer day, one you waited a whole year for, and when it finally happened, it felt surreal. It wasn’t weird kissing him. It wasn’t odd sleep laying on top of him that night because it felt natural, it wasn’t anything new for the two of you. You were friends at the start, sure, but at some point, it turned into more, and you both handled it like it was only a friendship. You were happy to finally realize it had been more between each word, each interaction, each cheek kiss, and hug.  

Sleep came easy that night, for you and him. 

And even though his severe loss earlier, Carter felt valid.

You were there, you were his number one fan winning or losing, and he was happy he got to have a stable relationship with you. 

“Do you have a saying for that?” he asked jokingly.

“Unfortunately, no,” you held his face close, lips centimeters away. “But it doesn’t matter. I don’t want to spend time with sayings when I can spend time kissing you,” you confessed.

He chuckles, “Suddenly, life feels like a pony farm.” 

You can find more of my work here

“Breathe” [Kuroo x reader] Karasuhoes server collab

Hello, hello, helloo !! This is my part of the karasuhoes server collab, the masterlist to all the other amazing and beautiful stories the other wrote can be found here so make sure to check those out too :)

This was really fun to participate in and i’m very glad to have been able to be part of such a fun little community🥺 Hope you guys’ll enjoy this thing i made !

Also pLEASE forgive the fact that this banner is pretty bad. I forgot that i had to make a new one and made this one at camp, but i’ll replace it soon with a better one😭🤣

Prompt:  “Hey, just look at me. Breathe.”

Warnings: TW:some sort of panic attack

Words: 3407

____________________________

Breathe

Dating Kuroo was like running away from the rain late at night after coming back from a big city by train. Getting out of the train and walking onto the platform only to notice its raining pretty hard, the noise of the droplets hitting the ground echoeing in your ears.Counting down from 5 to 1 before bolting off, the sound of shoes hitting the wet pavement being somewhat pleasant while laughing and screaming at the same time before rushing into the car being absolutely soaked. Sitting in silence for a few seconds, catching your breath before bursting into laughter.

Its the smell of gasoline late at night while looking at him through the car windows as he's pumping gas into the car, staring off into space for a moment before snapping back to his thoughts and catching you staring. Smiling in response and shooting a wink at you.

Dating Kuroo, was so much fun and comforting. There was no one who could make you laugh at silly science pun pick-up lines like he could, no one who knew your exact order at every single restaurant like the back of their hand and especially no one who knew how to hold and kiss you just the way you liked it like Kuroo did.

The two of you met in highschool, his third year and your second. Being friends with your neighbor, Yaku, seemed to have its perks especially after tagging along with some of their games and catching the attention of the rooster.

A couple of dates, victories, anniversaries and a ring on your finger later the two of you were sharing an apartment together.

Kuroo had a great job, one that paid quite well and allowed the two of you to go on vacation abroad a couple of times. You were still in college, finishing your last year of school and starting work at a place you had your internship at which happened to offer you a job afterwards at. It felt too good to be true, all of it.

Coming home from a rough day only to find a freshly made meal waiting for you on the table, waking up to find your head locked in between an arm and a leg wrapped around your lower back because he once again used you like a body pillow and had his own head pushed between a pillow, finding little knick knacks on your desk he bought cause they reminded him if you and solving the who's doing the dishes part with rock-paper-scissors but when you lose he'd still be by your side drying everything off.

Hours worth of paragraphs could be written about how fun and loving domestic life with Kuroo was.

"(Y/n)? I'm home!"

With his tie loosely hanging around his neck, the top buttons of his shirt open and one of his shoes slightly untied Kuroo had entered the house. His face was adored with a few droplets of sweat mixed with rain from outside after having ran from the car towards the front door, not wanting to get wet and all.

It was usually you who came home later, but today Kuroo was out of town and had a long drive home so he hadn't been able to be back for dinner on time.

It didn't take long until he had kicked off his shoes and got rid of his blazer, throwing it on some boxes so he could "clean it later".

He scrunched his eyebrows together in confusion, wondering about the reason why you hadn't greeted him yet. Normally you'd be calling out for him immediately or, if it had been a particularly hard and long day for him, you'd be by his side in a second taking him into your arms while running your fingers through his hair.

Perhaps, you went out to go to the shop or your parents? No, your coat was hanging on the coatrack with still fresh droplets of rain on it from outside and your shoes were neatly placed underneath it.

"(Y/n)..?"

Kuroo entered the living room, socks softly dragging over the smooth wood floor of the apartment. While he was busy taking off his tie, leaving him only in a blouse with rolled up sleeves, he could notice how there were two bags of groceries scattered over the kitchen counters. It seemed as if you hadn't bothered to even notice one of the peaches had rolled onto the ground and how it seemed that one of the eggs cracked.

Kuroo scanned the living room, noticing how you probably didn't even plop down on the couch after he left the apartment . Everything was still the same, empty cup that once contained his vitamin juice still there and the cushion he used to playfully hit you on the head with still on top of the head rest.

"Hey, babe? Are you home?"

Once again there was no reply and all he could hear was the soft buzzing of the dishwasher in the kitchen.

Perhaps, you were asleep? Or showering, maybe you were cold after going through the rain and were soaked so went to shower immediately which would explain the hurry.

A small grin made its way onto his face as he hopped off into the bedroom in his search for you.

He tiptoed to the bedroom, sneaking his way into his most treasured room of the apartment, being very careful that if you were to be sleeping he wouldn't be waking you up and could just look at you for a few seconds because god did Kuroo love the way you looked oh so peaceful and soft whenever you slept. It was a sight he could never get enough of, even if there might of have been some drool on the corner of your mouth.

Kuroo softly pushed the door open, a slight creak could be heard through the door but it wasn't too loud. The curtains were closed, perhaps you really were asleep? He was sure you had opened the curtains this morning which was something that had woken him up abruptly.

"You sleeping, baby?" His voice spoke softly before he made its way inside. Once his eyes had gotten used to the light, he could see how your clothes were scattered over the ground. It seemed like they were a bit wet, meaning you had been in the rain on your way back, and they left a trail towards the bathroom door.

It didn't take long before the edges of his mouth stretched out into a smirk and in a split second he had marched towards the door, his ear against the white wooden surface to pick up any sound coming from inside. "(Y/n)? I'm home, can i come in?" Kuroo called out, knocking softly while his other hand reached for the knob.

Kuroo lost the sense of privacy between the two of you a long time ago. I mean you two had seen each other naked before, what more was there to hide? You'd be taking a shower and he'd casually walk in to use the bathroom or the opposite way of course. You even caught him walking into the kitchen butt-naked in the morning. It was..interesting.

He'd always be able to walk into the bathroom while you were there, no matter what you were doing. Nobody else had the key to your apartment and if Kuroo brought someone home he'd always send you a text beforehand to avoid any embarrassing moments.

..so why was it locked now?

At first Kuroo didn't think much of it, maybe you did it on accident?

"(Y/n)? Are you okay..?"

His voice was laced with worry but ,once again, there still was the possibility that you had locked it on accident. He did it too sometimes, it was a reflex from when he lived at home that sometimes randomly resurfaced.

Though, Kuroo couldn't hear any water running..but you had to be inside since the door was locked after all..why weren't you responding?

Did u slip and fall? Were you okay?

Kuroo could feel how his chest tightened and all feeling he had in his upper body sank to his toes. His hands were sweaty, the loose tie around his neck suddenly feeling way too tight for his liking.

He leaned his forehead against the wooden door and started fiddling with the doorknob, hoping you'd atleast respond with a whimper or maybe a knock back. After all, you'd still be okay..right?

"..H-hey, baby can u open the door for me? Can you do that? I'm coming in okay?"

Although the door was locked, there was still a way to come inside from the outside. You see, though it was very tiny, there was a little button at the bottom of the door knob you could twist if you used something thin, like a coin or keys.

Kuroo found out when the two of you were roughhousing. He was obviously winning, after all the man had years of volleybal behind him and still worked out frequently. But, he had a weakness that would give you just a few seconds to get away and that weakness were his sensitive sides. It only took one pinch of your fingers and he flinched and started cackling, something which allowed you to run towards the bathroom while locking yourself up.

You thought you were safe, a feeling of pride washing over you and you settled yourself on the closed toiletseat. Everything seemed to lead to you having won, but the simple click of the doorlock turning made your heart drop and a few seconds later Kuroo stepped inside with a devilish grin on his face and a penny in between his fingers.

Long story short, you were absolutely screwed.

"Shit, shit, shit, fuck, fuck.."

Trashing through the drawers, Kuroo hurriedly looked for something he could use to open that damned lock. Within seconds, he fished out a very tiny key out of the nightstand and was quick to make his way towards the bathroom door.

"I'm coming in now"

...

"(Y/n)..?" Kuroo muttered, a wave of relief washing over him once he saw that you appeared to be okay physically. A second wave of worry washed over him the moment he saw your tear stained face looking up at him.

The sight of you sitting on the cold tile floor, your bathrobe hugging your body and your still slightly damp hair dripping some water on the floor was something he didn't expect to see. You were sobbing at this point, only now did he notice how you were hiding one of your hands from his sight. It killed him, seeing you like this, especially since he didn't know what happened and countless of possibilities ran through his head..why didn't you open the door?

Kuroo quickly rushed to your side and wrapped his arms around you, burrying your face into his shoulder while sitting down. He couldn't care if his suit got wet or if his head bumped into the sink, all he wanted right now was to hold you and help you calm down as he could hear how you slowly started choking on your sobs and hyperventilate.

He backed up a little, giving you some space to breathe and softly rubbed your back. "Hey, hey, its okay..I'm here now, its okay. Ssshh, its okay baby." Kuroo whispered, a voice oh so soft and comforting that always pulled at the strings of your heart. A voice that felt like a warm cup of chocolate milk with marshmallows that started melting.

At this point you were shaking, the clear thoughts you once had turning into a mushy blurry mess and all you could do was cry and panic. You wanted to go away, wait no you didn't. But you did, you could run, you shouldn't. Maybe you should leave without saying anything, wait no no what were you saying. Fuck it was getting hot-

“Hey, just look at me. Breathe.”

Breathe.

Kuroo was holding your face in his hands, basically forcing you to keep your attention to him and him only. His thumbs caressed your cheeks, wiping away the tears that were leaving your eyes like niagra falls. The way his warm hazel eyes peered into your own with such love yet worry made your head start clearing up. His touch was comforting, it was okay. Everything was okay.

Pulling away from him, you dug the arm you were hiding further into your lap. "Tetsurou, i..I, i'm really..Fuck" You cursed under your breath while throwing your head back, bumping it into the wall behind you while taking a deep breath. The way Kuroo's eyes were stuck onto you, felt like a thick smoke cloud. You couldn't get rid of it and it was killing you slowly, you wanted it gone yet it made you feel at ease in a way.

The bathroom suddenly felt a lot smaller and you suddenly realized why you were crying in the first place, old worries resurfacing and tears prickling at the corner of your eyes. Unconciously, you started pulling your hand closer and closer to your body, something which didn't get unnoticed by Kuroo as you felt his hand slowly reach out to it and wrapping around it.

"I-i'm so sorry.." You whimpered, a fresh new wave of tears falling down your cheeks.

It took awhile for him to register what exactly was going on, especially since he was confused about why you were hiding it. He didn't even understand what exactly it was what he was looking at at first, but within seconds his mind put two and two together.

Staring at the three pregnancy tests in his hand, Kuroo's mind immediately went blank. The world around him disappeared, and all he could look at were the three different sticks that had either a  || , ++ or read postive on it.

The thick silence was choking you up even more, the bad outcomes you imagined in your mind that you on life didn't hope to become reality suddenly feeling way too close to you. Maybe you really did have a reason to cry.

Kuroo slowly adverted his eyes from the sticks in his hands to you and he felt his heart hammer in his chest. "You..you're pregnant? Like, a baby, your- no OUR baby, growing inside of you. Do you..want to keep it?" He questioned, his hand reaching out for your own. The soft squeeze he gave once you accepted it made you feel at ease, the bad thought drifting away slowly again.

You nodded your head at his question, adverting your eyes to his chest. The world around you had stopped a long time ago, it was just you in the bathroom. The moment you had gotten home you didn't even bother to put the groceries away, the screaming in your head getting louder and louder with the minute becoming truely agonizing. The words 'You're just late' repeating over and over again getting louder with the second as you got closer to the bathroom.

At first you postponed it, taking a shower first and taking your absolute sweet time with it while scrubbing and scrubbing your skin as if you were trying to scrub away the panic that boiled in your chest. After having been in it for around 30 minutes you forced yourself out, not wanting the water bill going up just because you were feeling like a coward.

Peeing, had never been so difficult in your life. It wouldn't, you couldn't. It frustrated you extremely, never in your life had your bladder given up on you the most and when you needed her most she decided to let you down.

The minutes that followed were probably the worst. It felt like hours had passed, your reality slowing down like in an action movie when they'd shoot bullets at someone and they'd barely dodge them. Even after hearing the beep of one of the pregnancy tests, the more expensive one, had echoed through the bathroom you waited for atleast another 40 minutes before looking at it.

The truth is, Kuroo and you talked about a lot that involved your future. Kuroo always talked about how he wanted to buy a house, a big one with a beautiful garden where you could keep pretty colorful flowers and gaze at the stars at night. One with a porch and of course a swinging bench where the two of you would sit when you're all old and wrinkly with an old dog sitting at your feet. He'd talk about how he'd just know how good you'd look at your wedding, already talking about how he'd kiss you at the altar like he had never kissed you before.

All of those plans, plans for the future.

..yet there were never any words about kids.

The two of you weren't exactly too young anymore, after all you were responsible adults now, but you didn't except that if you were to ever have kids it would be right now. You weren't even sure what Kuroo thought of being a dad himself.

"I-i'm gonna be a dad? I'm actually gonna be a dad? We'll have to buy a house!"

With another nod of confirmation coming from you, Kuroo bursted out into laughter. It was a type of laughter you had enver heard before,if you were honest. It wasn't like his usual cackle, in all honesty it sounded more like a serial killer in a movie that was absolutely nuts and laughed wholeheartedly. You weren't even sure why he was laughing, heck Kuroo didn't even know himself.

The relief that had washed over him the moment he finally cleared his head was immeasurable. You were okay, like actually okay, and he was gonna be a dad? This was the first and last time he was happy about you crying. Fuck, he could even feel his eyes burn slightly.

Kuroo looked at you for a moment with a big grin and you could see how ecstatic he had gotten all of the sudden. The joy he held in his eyes was something you last saw when you proposed the idea of living together but even that wasn't on the level as this.

It didn't take long before you started mimicking his smile, all of the bad emotions gone within a second. The tears that once spilled out of your eyes due to panic and the uncertainty you felt not too long ago, had turned into ones of relief and happiness.

Before you could even comprehend about everything that was happening, Kuroo had grabbed the fabric of your bathrobe and pulled you closer to him. His lips immediately met yours, your noses slightly bumping into each other in the process but at that moment it didn't matter. The way his lips moved against yours made your knees weak and made you want to hold onto it forever. With his hand cupping your face, Kuroo only deepened the kiss before he pulled away again and rested his forehead against yours.

The two of you gazed into each other's eyes for a moment, no words exchanged, but with the way Kuroo was looking at you with the softest look he didn't have to. His thumb softly caressed your cheek and you could hear the way he sighed in relief as if breathing out all of his worries.

With another soft kiss to your lips, this time merely a peck but still comforting Kuroo held you close in his arms. His face burried into your freshly washed hair and his nose pressed against your temple. His mouth ghosted over your ear and you could feel his warm breath on your skin.

"..thank you"

Maybe agreeing with your friend that coming along to his volleybal practice hadn't been so bad after all, you'd have to thank Yaku properly once he came back. Meeting Kuroo really might of have been the best thing to happen to you.

Neither of you knew what the future would hold at this point and in all honesty it was quite scary, but you had Kuroo and Kuroo had you. You two didn't know how to actually prepare for such a big step in your life and along the way there were many doubts.

But coming home late at night to find Kuroo slow dancing with your daughter to an old song on the lp player, his face in awe as he looked down at how the girl on his hip that held onto her father's hand slowly started dozing off due to all the swaying might of have made you realize that sometimes,

Some things should just be left unplanned.

I Could Be Your Sometimes Part Eight

Previous Part | Next Part | Masterlist Rating: Explicit - 18+ Only Notes: Set before the series. Texts with times in front of them and no name or initials in front of them indicate reader’s texts Thank you to everyone that’s liked and read this!! Pairing: Andy Barber x Reader Warnings: Infidelity and sexual content. If you dislike this, please don’t read. Thank you.

Chapter-specific warnings: Cursing; kissing; oral sex; handjobs Summary: I didn’t need this. I didn’t need this now, I didn’t need it later, but I really didn’t need it after working for five hours. I wasn’t even done, I was just stepping out for lunch. 

I should’ve woken up alone. However, when my alarm went off, an arm flung itself over my middle and a voice groaned, “Shut it off.” Fear not-- this arm and that voice were not disembodied. Worse! They belonged to Neal Loguidice. I reached out, grabbing my phone and shutting the alarm off. Neal snuggled closer, pressing his face into the back of my neck (I hadn’t figured the guy for a cuddler, and he’d kept his distance when I was falling asleep the night before, which was why I’d figured he’d ditch. I hadn’t stayed up to make sure, I mean, fuck, he’d come through the front door, he knew where it was). “What time is it?” He mumbled. “6:30,” I answered. “Why the hell is your alarm set for 6:30 on a Saturday?” Neal grumbled. “I’m going into work, remember?” I reminded him. I reached down, removing his arm from where it had wrapped around me and sitting up, raking a hand through my hair as I yawned. I got out of bed, grabbing my bathrobe from where it was flung over the back of the chair at my vanity and pulling it on before heading into the bathroom. I looked like hell. I felt like it, too. I showered, brushed my teeth quickly, then hurried into my bedroom to get dressed. “You weren’t kidding about going in, huh?” Why was he still in my bed! “Nope,” I said, opening my drawers and rifling through them for something to wear. I heard him sigh, followed by the rustling of sheets. I was an inch away from making a solid sweater selection when I felt Neal kissing my shoulder. “You sure I can’t get you to change your mind?” He murmured. I rolled my eyes, knowing he couldn’t see my face. The sex hadn’t been bad, it just hadn’t managed to be as hot as the four minutes of... contact that Andy and I had had in his office. And Andy and I had been fully clothed the entire time. “As tempting as that sounds,” I said, coating my tone with as much honey as I could muster, “I really do have to go in.” -- “Can we talk?” I didn’t need this. I didn’t need this now, I didn’t need it later, but I really didn’t need it after working for five hours. I wasn’t even done, I was just stepping out for lunch. It was like a punch, seeing Andy leaning against my car. I hadn’t bothered to stealth-park it like I had for the last few weeks; I had other things on my mind. “...Laurie told you that I was working today, didn’t she,” I said, folding my arms over my chest. Andy nodded and I scoffed, shaking my head, muttering, “Unbelievable.” “If anything’s unbelievable here, sweetheart, it’s you working on a Saturday.” “Don’t,” I said sharply. Andy closed his mouth, nodding and muttering, “Alright,” Before meeting my eye. “We should talk,” He insisted. “Somehow I don’t think that’s a good idea.” “Come on, please, I just... I wanna clear the air.” Andy stared me down, imploring, and it only took seconds for my resolve to crack. I huffed, turning and waving my ID at the keypad before I opened the door, waving him inside. His brow furrowed. “You wanna do it here?” He asked, coming closer. “Would you rather we do this at your house?” I sniped, batting my eyelashes. Andy didn’t answer, just pursed his lips and stepped inside ahead of me. -- There was no one else in our office, and I knew none of the cleaning staff would be sweeping through for a while, but I still led Andy into a conference room on the off-chance someone else decided to come in and get some work done. I flicked the lights on and closed the window’ blinds before I shrugged my coat off. “Fucking 800 degrees in here,” I mumbled, tossing it over the back of a chair. Andy hummed in agreement, pulling his own coat off. I leaned against a window, watching him. It was almost odd to see him in something that wasn’t a suit. He looked cozy, in a navy blue sweater and a pair of jeans. My eyes darted to the chain on his neck, my mind flashing back to the feeling of it under my palm. I rubbed my hands together, trying to push the thought away again before I regarded Andy. “So?” I asked. “So,” He nodded, resting his hands on the back of a chair and leaning against it, “Last night, uh... Last night was unexpected. Especially considering the fact that you’ve been actively trying to avoid me.” “Is that really all you came up here for?” I asked, unable to keep irritation from seeping into my tone, “What, are you going to say it was all a big mistake and that we were drunk?” “No, I’m not gonna make an excuse like that--” “Then what?” I snapped. Andy’s head dropped forward, and I felt my stomach curdle. I hated this. I should’ve left my Barber contact to Laurie, god knows this never would’ve happened with Laurie. “There is...Something about you,” Andy said quietly, lifting his head to look at me, “I lose my head when I’m around you. I don’t know what it is.” “Well figure it out.” Andy’s jaw tightened with irritation, white-knuckling the back of the chair as he straightened to stare me down. “I’m not blameless here, you know,” He pointed out. I huffed a humorless laugh, nodding. “Trust me, I know that.” “So what is it for you? Do you already have it figured out?” “What it is for me shouldn’t matter to you.” “Does.” “Shouldn’t.” “Does.” “Stop that.” Andy’s lips quirked with an amused smile - one that made his face look incredibly hot and stupidly punchable. He drew himself to his full height, rounding the table slowly, a calm, stalking stroll. His fingertips trailed over the tabletop, and I tried not to think about them bunching up the skirt of my dress just hours before. “You wanted me,” He reminded me as he grew closer, “You wanted to touch me, and you wanted me to touch you.” “Watch it, Barber,” I warned. That stopped him in his tracks, just a couple of feet from me. “We’re back to that?” he asked, unimpressed, “I think I liked it better when I had you squirming and moaning my name.” I bit the inside of my cheek, flushing hot at the reminder. “’Moaning’ is an exaggeration,” I said indignantly. “But squirming is accurate?” Andy teased. He took a few steps closer, eyes drifting over my face, lingering on my lips before he met my eye again. “Did you think about me?” He asked. I frowned, confused. “...What?” I asked. “Neal let me know on his way out that he was heading to yours for a drink.” I turned my head away from Andy, looking somewhere, anywhere else. Of course that had been some stupid power play on Loguidice’s part. Andy had humiliated him in front of me and Neal had made it a point to let Andy know that he’d gotten to me anyway. “I put two and two together,” Andy added. “Well, you’re not an Assistant DA for nothing,” I grumbled through clenched teeth. “You gonna deny it?” Andy pressed. “Why would I?” I asked, lifting my eyes to his again, “Who I fuck is my business.” Andy’s jaw clenched at that, and I watched him take in a deep breath before he crowded closer, bringing his hands up to bracket either side of my head. “Did you think about me?” He murmured. This was not good-- maybe there was something to Andy saying he lost his head around me. I seemed to lose any and all semblance of rational thought when Andy was this close. I could smell the sharp, earthy sent of his cologne, see his chest rise and fall under his sweater. I swallowed thickly, lowering my eyes to wear the light was glinting off of his chain. “You should go,” I whispered. “Do you want me to?” Andy asked, “Be honest. You tell me to leave, I will. Just say the word, sweetheart. Do you want me to go?” I hesitated before I shook my head. Andy’s hand gripped my chin, tipping it up to meet his eyes. “You used to squirm back when you babysat for us, too. You think I didn’t notice? You think I didn’t see you watching me?” He murmured. His words sent shock shooting through me; I couldn’t bring myself to look away from him, but his gaze was so heavy it felt like it might break me down. I managed to shake my head a little again, sucking my lip in between my teeth and he cooed. “Of course I noticed you, sweetheart. Blushing and biting your lip all the goddamn time.” He reached up, running the tip of his thumb along the seam before he tenderly pulled my lower lip from between my teeth. “Last night--” I tried weakly. “I wanted to ruin you,” Andy groaned, resting his forehead against mine, “Right there, on my desk--” “I would’ve let you,” I admitted, tipping my head back to rest against the window; my head felt like it was buzzing, like I couldn’t keep it up any longer. My nose nudged against his as I moved, and Andy pushed out a short, sharp breath. “Yeah?” He asked. I nodded. “Did you think about me when you were with him?” Andy smoothed his thumb over my cheekbone, and I melted. “Yes.” When I was younger, I had imagined this a thousand times. I had an idea of these chaste kisses that Andy would give, cradling my cheeks, like I was something small and fragile. My fantasies were innocent; Andy and I would regard one another softly, come together sweetly, and part ways with gentle, but sensible smiles, knowing it was the right thing to do.  There was nothing soft or sensible about us now. Andy’s lips crushed against mine as he finally closed the space between us. I allowed my hesitance and nerves to give way to hunger and I reached up, hooking an arm around his neck and keeping him close. Some part of me was worried we’d both come to our senses at any second, and I wanted to hold onto this brief insanity for as long as possible. But it didn’t end. Andy didn’t reel away like I expected, and I didn’t reach up with the intention of pushing him away as I had the night before. There was no lingering specter of his family nearby, of what we were betraying. I didn’t even flinch as I felt the cool of his wedding ring slip over my heated skin, his hand sliding under my shirt to skim over my side. I slid my hands down to Andy’s waist, steering him back toward the conference table. I never let my lips separate from his, not wanting him to get the wrong impression. He went easily, taking steady steps back until his thighs hit the table. He settled against it then, spreading his legs and wrapping his arms around me to draw me closer. I leaned away from Andy for a moment, taking in the pink tinge that had bloomed on the apples of his cheeks, the pupils blown wide with want, his bruised lips and mussed hair. Pride rolled through me. I had done that.  I dipped my head, sucking Andy’s plump lower lip between my lips. I traced my tongue over it before tugging at it with my teeth. Andy moaned, and I grinned as I let go of his lip, dipping my tongue into his mouth. I reached down, working my fingers under the hem of his shirt. I broke our kiss again only to tug it up and off, dropping it onto the conference table beside us. Before I could lean in for another kiss, Andy worked at tugging my shirt off as well, mumbling, “Wanna see you, too, sweetheart.” I obliged him, letting my shirt follow suit and leaning into his chest before he could really take me in. The displeased hum he began to make gave way to a stuttered groan as I kissed and sucked warm, wet kisses down his chest. His fingers wound into my hair, taking hold and giving gentle, encouraging tugs. I was careful not to let my teeth dig in too deep, or to linger on any one spot for too long. My hands settled on the buckle of his belt, making short work of it. Andy made a questioning sound above me, and I squeezed him through his jeans. He let out a shaky laugh, a mumbled, “Ah.” “What’d you think I was going to do down there?” I asked as I straightened up, “Ask where you got these jeans?” “They are my favorite pair,” Andy informed me as I undid the fastenings. “And you wore them just for me?” I teased as I dipped my hand under the waistband of his underwear. Andy chuckled, tugging the cups of my bra down before he bent his head, tonguing at one of my nipples. He lapped at it delicately before taking it into his mouth. I moaned softly at the feeling, arching up into the heat. I shivered as he leaned away, blowing cool air over the wetted skin. He turned his head, mouthing over the side of my other breast before teasing the nipple. I couldn’t help my wriggling in place, squeezing my thighs together as I thumbed the head of his cock. He groaned into my skin before he leaned away to watch me. I made a move to kneel down, but he stopped me, hand steadying on my hip. “Not here,” He said softly. For the first time since we started this, fear shot through me. It must’ve shown in my face, because Andy quickly added, “The floor’s gonna be too hard on your knees, angel, I don’t want them to hurt.” I pouted, leaning in and kissing Andy warmly as I pulled his cock out. “But I wanna get my mouth on you,” I murmured, palming the shaft, “Please?” I added in the sweetest whine I could muster. Andy barely managed to stifle a desperate sound in his throat, yielding and nodding. He watched me sink to my knees, fingers still wound in my hair as I took my place on my knees. As badly as I wanted to savor the moment, I was also acutely aware of the fact that I was in my office, in a conference room with a door that didn’t lock. I cursed myself for not bringing him back to my apartment, and felt a thrill as the dangerous thought of, ‘Next time’, crossed my mind. I leaned in, teasing the head with the tip of my tongue, repeating the tender touches Andy had treated me to moments before. I peered up at him from under my lashes, relishing in the sight of him watching me through hooded lids. I bobbed my head slowly, taking a little more of him into my mouth each time, swiping my tongue around the head and along the glans on every third pass. Now and again he’d tighten his hold on my hair, apply a little more pressure, and I’d let him steer me where he wanted before I’d lightly scrape my teeth over him - a warning, a reminder of who was in charge right now. I brought my hand up from where I’d steadied myself against his thighs, gripping the shaft as I lapped at the head like a lollipop. Andy hissed. “If you keep that up, it’s gonna be over, angel,” he warned. I leaned away, raising a brow. “Did you have other plans?” I asked. Andy’s lusty satisfaction melted to a grin as he reached down, gripping me by my arms and pulling me up. “Of course I have other plans,” he chuckled, leaning in and sweeping his tongue into my mouth. I sighed, leaning against him as his arms wound around me. “Were you...Going to clue me in... At any point?” I mumbled between kisses. Andy hummed thoughtfully. “'m cluing you in now,” He pointed out. I grinned as his hands drifted over my ass, giving it a squeeze.

“What are these other plans, then?” I pressed. I couldn’t help the squeak that I let out as Andy swatted my ass. “So impatient,” He grumbled. He gave my ass another squeeze before he brought one hand around, slipping under the band of my leggings. He tutted when he felt my thighs clenched together. “Open up for me, angel,” he urged. I obliged, relaxing a bit and shuddering as his fingers prodded me through my underwear. I whimpered, pressing my face into his neck as he tapped his fingers over my cloth-covered clit. “Andy,” I mumbled. He hummed, applying a little more pressure. “I want you to fuck me,” I spoke against his skin, chasing the words with desperate little kisses.  “Not here,” Andy shook his head. I fought the urge to bite down in retaliation -- I could only be so stupid about this. “Why.” Andy’s touches became more insistent then, slipping his fingers under the band of my panties and rubbing tight, fast circles over my clit. Andy turned his head, murmuring into my ear, “Because when we do this for the first time, I’m going to do it right. It’s not going to be a quick fuck in a conference room, sweetheart. I’m going to take my time with you.” I closed my eyes, lips parting to pant stupidly against his skin. “You want that, don’t you? Want me to take care of you?” He murmured, “Want me to take you apart? You’re barely gonna remember your own fuckin’ name sweetheart, just mine.” “Andy--” I gasped. I reached down, gripping his cock where it was still resting hard against his thigh. He let out a growl, latching onto my neck and biting down. I let out a shocked shout, unable to help it, but it didn’t stop either of us. I didn’t give a damn if Nora walked in at this point and fucking fired me. Andy and I kept working one another, egging the other on with our whines and moans. I spilled over the edge first, managing to muffle my desperate cry against his shoulder. Andy followed a moment later, his release spilling over my fist and onto his abs as he mouthed over the hot, wet mark he’d made. Neither of us moved for a moment. Andy was the first to extract himself, gently moving his hand. He gave my pussy a pat before pulling his hand from my underwear. I shivered, the both of us looking down at his glistening fingers. My stomach jumped as I loosed my grip on his softening cock. What the hell did we just do? I turned away him to grab a few tissues from the corner. I cleaned my hand first, then pulled up the cups of my bra. I grabbed a couple of tissues to give to Andy. I turned back to pass them to him and froze at the sight of him sucking on the fingers he’d been teasing me with. I blinked at him, stunned, and he shot me a look of indignant amusement. “You literally had my dick in your mouth,” He pointed out. “I... Yeah. Valid.” I held the tissues out to him regardless. He took them, cleaning himself up before tucking himself away. I reached out, grabbing my shirt from his and pulling it on. I suddenly felt a bit cold, and kinda sleepy, and I vaguely remembered that this fucking fiasco had started with my plan to go and get lunch. My blood sugar was probably through the floor. Andy didn’t hurry to put his shirt on, tossing the tissues into the nearby trashcan before he reached out, bringing me back into his chest. I felt a pleased smile bloom on my face. I had been expecting him to retreat, and quickly. I rested my hands on his shoulders, eyes settled on his chest. “You goin’ all shy on me two minutes after you were writhing on my fingers?” He teased. “It’s been three minutes,” I retorted, and he laughed, leaning up and mouthing over the hollow of my throat. I closed my eyes, tipping my chin up to give him more room. “Andy?” I murmured. He hummed. “Did you mean it?” I asked. “Mean what, angel?” I swallowed thickly. “About, you know,” I mumbled. He chuckled, reveling in my bashfulness. “Not sure I do, beautiful,” He shook his head slowly, stubble scraping harshly over the mark he’d made on me, and I tightened my grip on his shoulders. “About... Taking your time with me,” I explained. Andy turned his head, pressing a tender kiss over the abused skin before he leaned back to meet my eyes. “Every fucking word.” Tag list: @fanficadddddict69 ; @nina-sj​; @rosalynshields ; @what-is-your-wish​

Can you write Dad David where he has a bet with Ilya on whether this baby will say mom or dad first and he is tying to get them to say dad and just cuteness and pettyness

Hey love! Hope you enjoy it!! 💖💖💖

Y/n came home from work to an empty living room. She left her purse and coat on the couch before heading to the bedroom. She had not yet crossed the door when she heard David talking to the baby. She stood still, watching from the cracked door at the heartwarming scene. 

“Say Da-da” David said, baby Audrey sitting in front of him on the bed. “Come on Audrey! Say Da-da.”

Audrey looked at her father and giggled loudly. 

“You are so adorable! You know that right? Just like your mommy.” David chuckled, taking the baby in his arms and kissing her puffy cheeks. 

“Speaking of mommy, she’ll be home soon so come on Audrey... say Dada, please!” He begged. His daughter just laughed once more. David sighed with a smile. “It’s okay, we’ll get it tomorrow.”

Just then Ilya came out of the bathroom. “No, she won’t. Won’t you little girl? She is going to say Mama first.”

“No she won’t Il. She is daddy’s girl. Aren’t you sweetie?” David cooed at the baby. 

“No, she is a mama’s girl, so she will say mama first.” Ilya gave David a cocky smile. 

At that point Y/n had known David and Ilya for five years, it wasn’t hard to notice when those two were up to something. She just needed to figure out what so she could make them cut the crap. 

“There is no way you’ll win this one Il. My daughter loves me and she will say Da-da first so she can make Da-da a lot of money” Bingo. 

Y/n stormed into the room. Her hands were locked on the sides of her hips in her best “caught you red handed” pose. 

“David Julien Dobrik, what are you doing to my daughter?!” She looked intently at him. 

“I’m gonna go now.” Ilya said trying to escape the situation. Y/n took one step to the side and blocked his path. 

“Sit”

“Okay, I’m going to sit.” Ilya conceded. 

“Now, come here Audrey honey.” She said taking the baby in her arms. “Mommy is sorry she gave you such an immature dumb dumb for a dad.” 

Ilya laughed, earning a deathly stare from the mother. 

“You two need to stop betting on every achievement! I leave to go to work and it’s like I’m leaving three kids in the house instead of one. How long has this been going on?” 

“Three weeks” David admitted, guiltily. 

“You two are going to regret making this bet.” Y/n said with an evil smile. 

“Damn, man, you where right, she does get an evil glint in her eye when she is plotting revenge.” Ilya muttered to David, looking at Y/n’s eyes. 

For the next week David and Ilya kept the bet on the low, making sure Y/n would be nowhere near when they practiced with Audrey. So when Saturday rolled around David and Ilya just sat on the couch watching a movie, Audrey on David’s lap. Y/n was in the other room taking a shower. 

“Audrey, say Dada.” David said turning the kid around so she would look at him. “Come on sweetheart, say Da-da” 

“No” Audrey said and laughed. 

“Wow! What was that?” Both the guys eyes opened wide and they scooted closer to hear her little voice. 

“NO” Audrey giggled excitedly. “No, no, no , no, no!” 

“What the fu..?” Ilya started but was cut off by Y/n. “Language!” She said from the door, still in her bathrobe. 

“Audrey did you show Daddy and Uncle Ilya what mommy taught you?” Y/n said with a smile taking her daughter in her arms.

“No” Audrey cheered. 

“See, Davey, she is your daughter alright. And a quick learner too! It took her only a few days to get it. What do you say when Uncle Ilya asks you to say Ma-ma?”

“No!” The little one giggled. 

“That’s right my clever girl” Y/n cheered, kissing her daughter’s cheeks. 

“That’s not fair!” David said sadly. 

“She learnt something else too... Show daddy baby!” Y/n winked. 

“Julien” 

“Oh, fuc..” He started saying with a laugh. 

“Language! Your daughter is learning to talk!” Y/n cut him off. 

“Julien, Julien, Julien” The baby laughed. 

Own Personal Superman (Rafael x MC)

Summary: Jaya discovers that getting locked out of her friend’s apartment may not be the worst thing in the world..

A/N:  This is my submission for the Choices Fandom Game: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words. I was given my picture by my friend and writer extraordinaire @likethetailofacomet The photo doesn’t reeeeally fit but ehh 

Word Count: Elle’s brain cannot be captured in 1000 words ok 3070

Warnings: Swearing

Writer Tags: @speedyoperarascalparty @ao719  @leelee10898 @riseandshinelittleblossom @zaffrenotes @drakewalkerwhipped @stopforamoment @annekebbphotography @lizeboredom @boneandfur @mind-reader1 @jovialyouthmusic @ooo-barff-ooo @bobasheebaby @ownworldresident @hopefulmoonobject @sleepwalkingelite @likethetailofacomet @silviasutton1989 @blackcatkita @blackcoffee85 @kennaxval @andy-loves-corgis @callmetippytumbles @iplaydrake @the-everlasting-dream @brightpinkpeppercorn @agent-bossypants @tornbetween2loves @dcbbw @rainbowsinthestorm @choicesbyjade @breaumonts @thehonorarybeaumont @pixelsandkink @innerpostmentality @katedrakeohd @darley1101 @carabeth @sirbeepsalot @strangerofbraidwood Readers: @cocomaxley @mfackenthal @moneyfordiamonds @romanticatheart-posts  @choicesarehard @gibbles82 @wannabemc2

-

‘Mikey, come on!’ Jaya yelled, pounding on the door of her supposed best friend’s balcony door. ‘I said I was sorry okay? Now let me in!’ 

There was no answer from the other side of the door as there hadn’t been for the last twenty minutes. Jaya shivered against the cold Boston air, wrapping the thin white bathrobe she was wearing tighter against her shoulders in an attempt to protect herself against the wind that whipped across the side of the apartment building. 

When the subject of Michaela’s kink came up, Jaya could never resist a good jab, especially at her equally sassy best friend, driving her up the wall with her teasings about one Dr Zaid Mirani. Usually Michaela would have been up for a good ribbing, giving as good as she got but so soon after the — Jaya shuddered again now at the memory of it — Mirani incident, she should have known better than to believe her friend’s attempt at covering up her feelings. In her heart, Jaya realised belatedly, she shouldn’t have gone too far and now she was paying for it dearly. Locked out on the balcony of her friend’s townhouse dressed in little more than her underwear and a flimsy bathrobe — she’d just come out of the shower — was enough to teach her a lesson and now that it was learnt, she was ready to come back in. 

 ‘Mikey come on dude,’ Jaya cajoled, jiggling the door handle. 'This stopped being funny a long time ago.’ 

 ‘You sure the joke’s over?’ Her friend’s acerbic tone sounded through the door. ‘I wouldn’t trust your judgement with that.’ 

Jaya winced. 'Okay I deserved that. Now can you please let me in?’ 

Something slipped through the mail slot landed at her bare feet. ‘Get yourself out of this one Da Silva. I don’t have time for your bullshit.’

‘Fuck you Michaela Quinn,’ she snapped viciously, raising her fists to rain more blows on the door.

If I end up breaking it, its on her.

Somewhere to Jaya's left, a window was opened and a string of what she guessed were Chinese curses were aimed at her, making her drop her raised arms. As annoyed as she was with Mikey, she wasn’t going risk getting yelled at by her cranky neighbour. 

 It was then that Jaya finally looked down to the object that had fallen through the mail slot at her feet. 

An old school flip phone. 

Why does Mikey even have one of these?  She sighed in annoyance as she glanced through the window at her actual phone lying on the coffee table on the other side of the glass. So close but so far… 

Flipping open the phone, she immediately dialled in Mikey’s number which immediately went to voicemail and she snapped the phone shut, aggravated but unsurprised that her friend had taken the care to block the number before giving it to her. Jaya dialled in another number, Sienna’s, but that got redirected to an automated voice message reminded her that Sienna had changed her number the week past. 

 If only I wasn’t so crap at remembering phone numbers. 

 The only ones she remembered were Mikey’s and her own mother’s —she shuddered at the thought of placing a call to the ever unimpressed Rani Da Silva, not needing yet another lecture about how irresponsible she was, she’d had plenty of those her entire life. Deciding against it, she pushed at the tiny buttons until she reached the phone’s phonebook, hoping that Mikey would have at least been kind enough to put the number of one of her housemates in or at least the building’s superintendent to let her back in. 

 Jaya groaned out loud as she saw the two lone contacts entered into the phone book. Jesus Mikey how long have you been planning this?

Hawaiian Justin Bieber

Wholesome Superman

She cursed her friend silently again for delivering this special torment.  She was in little but her bathrobe, stuck on the balcony of a Boston townhouse and she had two choices: Dr Bryce Lahela or EMT Rafael Aveiro. 

She regretted telling Michaela about her crush on both very attractive, very available men who both seemed to show interest in her. She was drawn to them both in different ways after hanging out one-on-one on separate occasions and she just couldn’t choose. She was hoping that by waiting it out a solution would present itself and she would get to avoid making the decision.

Right now, if she wanted to get off this goddamn balcony, a decision had to be made. Mentally scanning over their schedules in her head — Mikey would have never let her hear the end of it, if she knew Jaya actually committed both men’s timings to her memory — she groaned again and made her choice. 

The phone rang and rang as Jaya paced to small balcony, anxiety welling up in her. What if he didn’t pick up? What if he couldn’t come? What if he didn’t want to? She was so wrapped up in her doubts that she hadn’t realised he’d picked up at first. 

‘Hello?’ 

‘Rafael, hi, its Jaya, Jaya Da Silva from Edenbrook,’ she began, tucking her hair behind her ear nervously. ‘Uh… how are you?’ 

His chuckle echoed through the speaker. ‘I’m good, little surprised. How are you?’ 

‘I’m uh good…’ Jaya blurted out reflexively, her voice going up higher at the end as a gust of wind blew a chill up the flaps of the robe. ‘Uhh..’ 

Rafael’s voice sounded concerned now. ‘Um Jaya… is everything okay?’ 

She squeezed her eyes shut, running a hand over her face as she cursed her supposed best friend for the hundredth time. ‘Umm Raf… are you busy now?’ 

‘No not really, what’s up? Do you need help?’ 

She didn’t deserve him, she’d gotten herself into a ridiculous situation and she had her own stupidity to thank for that. That and one Dr Michaela Quinn. She took a deep breath and decided to bite the bullet. 

‘See its actually a real funny story…’ 

Rafael listened patiently while she blabbered on in the most roundabout way of describing her current predicament, hoping he would not think it was a prank call and hang up the phone.

 ‘…so yeah. That’s what… That’s me right now,’ she trailed off awkwardly, stomach in knots. 

 ‘Well I can’t say this is one of the strangest call outs I’ve had in my career,’ he replied good-naturedly. ‘Why don’t you text me your address and I’ll drop by your place, pick up some clothes and come rescue you.’ 

‘That would be amazing,’ Jaya answered, relief immediately diffusing from her body. She thanked him profusely and hung up to text him the address. Sliding down into a sitting position seemed to be better defence against the cold and Jaya leaned back against the brick wall.

Rafael Aveiro was one of the sweetest, kindest people she’d ever met, his inclination to help people was boundless and that was one of the things she’d admired most about him. Unlike most guys he was also honest and open, not afraid to get real about his family life like he had on the helicopter ride they’d taken together. His childhood stories had seemed so sweet, she didn’t want to ruin the vibe by telling the truth about hers. Everything about him was just so wholesome — hence Mikey’s nickname for him — Jaya didn’t want to complicate things by bringing him into her own problems. But she’d done just that and now he was going to see her in little more than her bathrobe. 

Jaya sighed, dropping her head in her hands. Why do I always seem to get into situations like this? She hadn’t realised she’d dozed off until the phone in her lap started to buzz and she almost dropped it in her eagerness to answer the call. 

 ‘Hey are you here?’

‘Yep just walking around the back,’ Rafael’s deep voice sounded out. ‘Your roommate Sienna gave me a bunch of clothes while Jackie stared me down the entire time. I don’t think she likes me.’ 

Jaya couldn’t help but laugh. ‘She doesn’t like anyone.’ 

‘Where are yo- Ah I can see you.’ 

 A glance downwards brought Rafael’s dark head into view and as he climbed up the metal staircase, Jaya wrapped the bathrobe tighter around her, trying not to focus on the way his arms flexed. 

 ‘Hi.’ HIs eyes scanned over her outfit. ‘Do I wanna know?' 

'Just call me Trouble,’ Jaya replied, as he passed her the small duffle bag with her clothes in it. ‘You stand guard, Turn around. I’m going to change.’

‘Yes ma’am,’ he chuckled, dutifully turning away to give her some privacy.

Shivering slightly against the cold, Jaya hastily threw on the jeans and top her roommate had picked for her, thanking her lucky stars that Sienna had picked out her outfit rather than Jackie or Elijah. ‘All done,’ she announced preemptively as she stood hopping on one foot as she tried to slip her sneakers on, eager to get out of this embarrassing situation. Rafael has only just turned when her toe caught on the metal railing and she tipped off balance. Jaya shot her arms out to brace herself for impact but it never came. Instead she found herself in the strong arms of her latest savior, bodies pressed together closer than ever before. 

 ‘You okay?’ Rafael asked, looking down at her with a paramedic’s concern as he helped her regain her balance. 

 ‘Y-yeah,’ she mumbled, driven to speechlessness with him just inches away, unable to stop her eyes from sliding down to his lips and the prospect of kissing him seemed much more appealing. ‘You’re like my own personal Superman.’

 His lips curved up into smile. ‘Does that make you Lois Lane?' 

She shrugged, not trusting her voice and together they climbed down the staircase to where his car was waiting. As soon as she shut the door, Jaya’s sense seemed to flow back to her.

‘Thank you for that,’ she blurted out after giving him the address to her apartment. ‘You didn’t have to help me out you know. I know its your day off and you’ve probably got better things to do than to go around saving-’ 

Rafael gave her an easy smile, holding up a dismissive hand to pause her ramblings as he began to drive away from Mikey’s townhouse. ‘Jaya its fine. I didn’t mind at all really.’ 

 ‘You’re way too nice for your own good,’ she told him after a pause. ‘Paramedic, part time Superman, nicest guy alive. Are you sure you don’t have some super dark secret you’re hiding under that nice front?’ 

He laughed at her words. ‘If I do, I’m yet to find it.’ 

Jaya stroked her chin thoughtfully. ‘I mean what gives? No one is ever just that nice.’ 

‘I’m not just anyone Jaya,’ he smiled again, eyes twinkling as he stopped at the lights. 

 ‘So who are you Rafael Aveiro?’ She propped up an arm on the centre arm rest, leaned in closer and narrowed her eyes at him. 

He mimicked her expression, arm next to hers. ‘Guess you’ll have to stick around long enough to find out.' 

‘Is that how its going to be?’ 

‘That’s how its going to be,’ he shared her grin. 

Still chuckling, Jaya settled back in her seat and they shared a comfortable silence for a few moments. ‘So what were you going to do on your day off? Y’know, if you weren’t saving a damsel in distress.’ 

‘I was going to go hiking with some friends, I like to get out on my days off. I drive around this city all week but I never get to see it properly.’ 

She felt a rush of guilt flood through her. ‘I’m sorry. I must have completely ruined your plans.’  

‘No, no its fine,’ he started to say but she held a hand up. 

‘No its not. Please go on your hike. I’ll feel terrible if you don’t get to go.' 

‘Only one one condition.’ He raised his chin at her. 

‘Name it.’ 

‘You join me.’ 

 Jaya’s eyebrows shot up. He couldn’t be serious. ‘You want me to come?’ 

He gave her another smile. ‘You doing anything for the next few hours?’ 

‘Noo...,’ she admitted, hesitating for a moment before looking at Rafael’s boyish grin. Spontaneity was the last thing she usually did but this time she couldn’t help but grin back at him. ‘Alright lets do it.’

-

‘So do you always take girls you’ve just saved on long hikes in the woods?’ Jaya asked, trying to hide the fact that she was panting a little. 

 Rafael grinned back at her from where he was a few paces ahead, pausing so she could catch up. ‘You’d be the first.’ 

She raised an eyebrow amusedly. ‘In that case, I should feel special. By the way do you know where we are going? Because I have no idea.’ She paused for a moment. ’This is the dark secret you’re keeping, you brought me all the way out here to kill me and dump my body in the woods.’ 

‘Is your sense of humour always this morbid?’ He shot her an amused look. 

‘Why do you think I became a doctor? Death jokes for days sonnnn,’ she winked. 

Rafael studied at her thoughtfully for a long moment as they walked. ‘Did little Jaya always know she wanted to be a doctor?’ 

Jaya felt her cheerful demeanour drop as the lump in her throat began to build and suddenly it was much too hard to swallow. ‘I uh...’ 

She felt tears prick the back of her eyes. She was not going to cry about this. Not here. Not in front of him. He didn’t need to be drawn into any more of her problems. 

‘I guess its just something I…always knew I’d do.’ She looked up to see him eyeing her carefully and she silently hoped he wouldn’t push her. 

 ‘I see,’ he replied, nodding in understanding and they continued on for a few moments up the incline. Anxiety rippled through her as Jaya tried to find the right words, hoping Rafael wouldn’t think she was brushing her off or that she was rude or — 

‘I-Its just… My childhood was a bit… turbulent. I’d rather not talk about it if that’s okay with you?’ 

 ‘Jaya,’ Rafael caught her hand, making her look back at him. ‘You don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to okay?’ 

She nodded, squeezing his hand a little and they continued their walk. Jaya glanced down at their clasped hands and couldn’t help but smile a little at the sight. She took a deep breath of the clean air, doubting that the EMT had any idea how calming his presence was. She was already starting to like him a lot more. Eventually, guided by Rafael, they made it to the top of the hill overlooking the entire Boston area. 

 ‘Wow,’ Jaya breathed, sinking to the ground and taking in the view. ‘Its breathtaking.’ 

‘Its one of my favourite views,’ Rafael put in, sitting down next to her. ‘Whenever it gets too much, I like to come up here and it reminds me how small my problems are in comparison.’ 

She nodded. 

Right now, all the things weighing on her mind, the competition for the place on the diagnostics team, the feeling of never being good enough, her struggles with her mother and her childhood, the duty she felt to herself to always be the best and do the best all didn’t seem so bad. 

‘Perspective.' 

He nodded and they sat together for a while in a comfortable silence. At some point Jaya looked over at him, the setting sun caught perfectly on his dark eyes and she felt the overwhelming urge to kiss him. Rafael let her take him in, smiling a little. 

Then almost magnetically, Jaya felt herself drawing closer to him and slowly tantalisingly the space between them decreased and his lips were on hers in a soft slow kiss. His hand came up to caress her cheek slightly and she placed an arm on his bicep as they parted. 

 ‘Wow,’ she breathed after a moment, eyes flickering open to see him looking at her tenderly. 

‘Yeah.’ He ran a thumb over her cheek and Jaya leaned in again, wanting more of him but he gently stopped her. ‘If its okay, I’d like to leave it there for today.’ 

‘Ookay…’ Her mind clouded over with doubts. Was she a bad kisser? Did he not like her? 

Rafael seemed to read her mind immediately. ‘I like you a lot Jaya but I don’t wanna rush this. I made that mistake before and I don’t want to make it again with an amazing woman like you. Is that okay?’ 

Jaya breathed a sigh of relief. ’That’s completely fine. Go as slow as you need.’ 

He smiled softly at her before getting to his feet and pulling her up. ‘I should get you home before your roommates start to worry.’ 

 She didn’t want their evening to end but she wanted to respect his request to take it slow so she allowed him to lead her back down the trail, keeping his hand firmly in hers until he chivalrously held the car door open for her to get in. 

A short drive later, they were standing outside her apartment building and he came to stand in front of her. 

‘Thank you for the save Rafael Aveiro.’ She look up at him, smiling. 

 ‘Thank you for the hike Jaya Da Silva.’ 

Again Jaya felt the urge to kiss him again but squashed the request down. ‘Is a goodnight kiss out of the question?’ She whispered, silently hoping he’d indulge her again. 

 ‘I think I can handle that,’ he grinned back dipped his head down to capture her lips again. 

Jaya rest her hands on his strong chest as their kiss was soft and sweet just like the last time. Just like him. 

 As they parted for the night, Jaya couldn’t help the smile on her face. She was looking forward to seeing a lot more of her own personal Superman in the near future.

To Begin Again: Chapter 6

Jamie passes through the stones on Beltane to 1968.

A/N: A chapter to establish our favorite couple to the 20th century! Were going to the intense parts next but we'll also get to more good parts soon! Thank you so much for reading, I appreciate it all! ❤️ As always, comments and suggestions are always welcome!

CH: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 AO3

Jamie stood frozen of the manse’s doorway, transfixed in observing the wonders of the 20thcentury.

He didn’t know what they were called yet and couldn’t conjure memories of Claire’s stories to properly identify the things around him but he saw them, heard them, and he was incredibly curious.

The ticking of the clock.

The light from the lamp.

The paintings on the walls and table that seemed to copy the likeness too precisely.

The ringing of the telephone that made him jump in surprise.

Other than that, everything else seemed the same.

The heat from the fireplace.

The furniture around the house.

The make and build of the house.

Yes, he can – no, he will – adapt just fine.

Claire felt how deep he thought when Jamie, she bet unconsciously, started squeezing her hand tighter. “Are you alright? Do you need a moment? Do you want to go out for a little air?”

Jamie released a breath he didn’t know he was holding. “Nah, Sassenach. I’ll do, just tell me what everything is and I’ll make do” he gave her a small, sad smile that softened her.

Claire didn’t have a doubt how Jamie would fare in the 20thcentury but she knew she’ll need to help and convince him of the same idea as well. Releasing her hold on his hand, she laced her hands at the nape of his neck, focusing him on her. “Jamie, I’m here. I will never leave you again.” She pulled him close for a kiss and just as their lips were about to meet, Jamie’s stomach rumbled.

“Ach, I dinna mean to break your thoughts, Sassenach, but – “Jamie pointed to his tummy area as the noise made itself known again.

Claire rolled her eyes, exasperated a humorous sigh and settled for quick peck on his lips. “Ugh, all right. Breakfast. But Jamie, we have to clean you up first?” He wasn’t overly filthy but a good hot shower might bring him a little comfort.

“Darling, remember when I told you about the hot baths?” Claire asked as they climbed up the stairs to the second floor of the house.

“Aye” Jamie nodded, remembering, as she stopped in front of one of the doors, opened it and led the way.

“So, this is a bathroom. It’s where we take a bath, shower, clean up…” Claire began to explain. He heard her but he was more focused on how Claire moved within the small space. She pointed to a faucet where the water comes from with a turn of a knob, taught her how to use the toilet and flush, pointed to a deep tub and lastly, showed her how to use and adjust the shower.

It was marvelous and Jamie had to admit, as new as he was to all this, he couldn’t wait to have his try.

Jamie was wearing breeks, long shirt and a vest when he passed through. No kilt, she noticed. She knew it was banned after the Battle of Culloden, along with many Scottish traditions Jamie grew up with and she have grown to love. He made his move to take off his pants but stopped to look at her.

As happy as a reunion this was, it was not lost on both of them that the truth remains that they have been parted for twenty years. Physically, they were strangers and yet their souls called to one another, each claiming the other still. The heart wants to push but the head wants to pull, the battle was raging, both unable to stop it at the moment.

“I’ll be just in the other room. If you need me, just call” Claire turned to leave in understanding but just as turned the knob, Jamie hugged her from behind.

“I dinna want you to leave, Claire, but I dinna want you to see me like this, all mucked up, dirty, the first time you really seeme.” he softly said. Claire sighed and rested against him in understanding. Jamie moved his head closer to her ear and whispered. “I’ve said before and I’ll say it again. I want you, Claire. I want you so much I can scarcely breath but would you mind if we waited a bit still?”

“We waited almost twenty years, what’s a few hours more?” Claire turned around and gave Jamie a kiss on the cheek. “Now, bath. I’ll try to fetch you something to wear. If I’m not back by then, use this” Claire handed Jamie a bathrobe, hoping it would fit his size, and left Jamie to his devices.

Half an hour has passed and Jamie hasn’t emerged from the bathroom. Claire was starting to go hungry herself but wanted for Jamie and her to have breakfast together. Another minute and she decided to check up on him.

She could hear the shower running – still. A smile crept on her face as she probably knew why Jamie was taking so long. Opening the door, she let herself in and sat on the toilet.

“Now I know why ye’ll leave me for this, Sassenach. These hot baths are heavenly. It’s been a while since I’ve had time for a proper washing and I canna seem to finish this bath just yet” Jamie said, smiling, eyes still closed, allowing the water to rush through him.

“Told you they’re glorious. Feeling refreshed yet? I want to eat and I think you’d forgotten your hunger in all these hot water” Claire chuckled and then heard the water suddenly cut. Jamie reached out a hand over the shower curtain asking for a towel and Claire gladly gave it. She could hear him padding himself down and when Jamie pulled back the barrier, he was naked from the waist up, the towel secured on his hips like a kilt.

She should look away. After the awkward moment of undressing earlier, they were walking on pins and needles at the moment, trying to navigate the 20thcentury - and each other - still. But she couldn’t help it.

His pelvic area was directly in front of her face and she could just outline where hewas. Her eyes travelled upwards, his abdominals looking as defined as ever (she should ask him how a man in his 40s have kept up in such amazing shape).

Moving up still, now to his broad chest, she could see droplets of water falling across it curved span. Her fingers twitched, aching to touch the delicious specimen before her. She bit her lip and bravely looked up to his face, stared directly to his eyes and conveyed every wicked thought that passed through her mind to her glass face.

Jamie must’ve caught on, a smirk forming on his perfect mouth. “Sassenach, if you continue to look at me like that…” Claire sighed loudly, interrupting him, as she decided that to hell with time, they needed each other now.

But just as she was to tug him away, Bree called from the hallway.

“Mama, I bought some clothes I think Da could use for now” she said, holding a white long shirt, a pair of black slacks, a belt and some hotel slippers, she managed to find in the manse’s storage. “Roger and I found it. Hope it fits but if not, I can look for more or shop. Also, hurry up because your breakfast is getting cold”

It was then when Claire opened the bathroom door and Bree realized she was talking to an empty bedroom door. Walking over to her mother, she raised her eyebrows in an apparent amused knowing, then gave her the stuff. “Thank you, Bree. We’ll be down shortly.”

The tension was palpable but the moment was broken. Claire handed Jamie the clothes and left him again to change. She told him to come down afterwards for breakfast.

Claire found Bree and Roger just about to finish their food on the table, two empty plates beside them for Claire and Jamie.

“Do you have plans for today?” Claire asked Bree and Roger. Both shrugged in the openness of their schedule.

“I need you to do something for me”

-

Jamie came down the stairs to find Claire, Bree and Roger in discussion. He purposely walked a little louder to interrupt them just in case that they were talking about him.

He wasn’t just long in the bath because of the hot showers. Truth was, he was too lost in his own thoughts to have noticed the time gone by. While in the shower, Jamie contemplated a lot of things now that he’s in the 20thcentury.

Obviously, he was not of this time – by logic, he’s technically 245 years of age and supposed to be dead.

He’s not uneducated but surely, what he knows now is archaic and irrelevant. He can learn but what use of a man of his age in this century where everything seems to be too advanced?

He also knew that in this time, he is not known nor acknowledged by law and paper. Was he supposed to go in hiding for the rest of his life here? He wouldn’t allow Claire and Bree to live that kind of life. Can he go back? Will he go back?

Too many questions, all of them unanswered. He shook his head and tried to push it all away.

Bree noticed him first just as he stepped at the bottom of the stairs. “Da!” she called out naturally, surprising Claire and Jamie, both, but nonetheless, pleased.

“A nighean” he called out with a slight bow and Claire was immediately by his side. “Are ye leavin’?” he asked as he saw Bree grab her bag and Roger his keys.

“Yes. Roger, erm, is going to show me around the university he works at. I’m thinking of maybe signing on to take some classes while I’m here.” She flushed a bit and Jamie knew it was already the half truth but didn’t press. “We’ll be back by dinnertime”

Bree, then, proceeded to hug her mother and then turned to Jamie with an open arm as invitation too. He took it, the hug lasting a second more than necessary, then they were gone.

Alone once again, Claire took stock of how Jamie looked. The long shirt looked a little too big, with the sleeves hanging over his shoulder but nothing a good fold can’t fix. His slacks, however, fit well in the waist but with his height, hanged over his ankle. His long hair was drying, the curls slowly going back to their original shape.

“Do I look okay to ye?” Jamie nervously asked.

“Oh, darling, you look so fine, I’m almost deciding against what I had planned for us today” Claire replied, teasing.

They both sat to eat their breakfast while Claire was teaching Jamie everything that was around the house that he might not have an idea on. Jamie, ever the student, was diligent in listening as she explained everything and continued the conversation with follow-up questions until the food was gone and they have to leave for the day.

“I’ll just take a quick shower before we leave, feel at home” Claire said as she disappeared upstairs. Jamie toured the house on his own, going about each room, checking which is which and where is where. Touched things that looked harmless enough, observed how things functioned. Eventually, he sat down to the couch and grabbed a book, Gulliver’s Travels – a title he knew and read well to kill the time. He must’ve been too entranced because he didn’t hear her come down until he Claire hugged him by his shoulders from behind. “Let’s go” she whispered in his ear, her breath tickling him, and he almost needed help standing up.

The first stop for their trip was the barber. Jamie’s hair was far too long for Claire’s liking and thankfully, Jamie didn’t protest nor seem to mind the idea. “It’s no as if it won’t grow back, Sassenach?” They cut it short where his nape was left bare but the tendrils were long enough for Claire to comfortably run her hands through.

Their next stop was at the department store. Claire wouldn’t forget Jamie’s first reaction to it – open mouth in wonder, eyes looking everywhere, body humming with both anxiety and excitement. The items lay so plenty and full, he doesn’t have an idea how to rummage through it all. She wondered how much more surprised he’d be going to the grocery.

“I thought we’d buy you a couple of things to survive you in this century.” She grabbed Jamie by the hand and led them to the men’s department. The female attendants were more than willing to help Jamie measure his body to get his proper size and she let them just to watch Jamie get uncomfortable by so much female attention. It was harmless – most of them in their 40s or 50s – plus she was there to supervise if someone went a little overboard with her man, she’d easily glare at them to back off.

They got several long shirts, slacks, shirts, denims, shorts, sleepwear, shoes, undergarments and hygienic items.

Jamie let Claire handle everything. He wasn’t a vain man by nature but all she’s buying seems necessary as per her explanation. Before they left, she asked Jamie to change into his new clothes – a light blue long shirt, black denims matched with black boat shoes. When he came out of the dressing room, Claire could feel the entire room and floor have their eyes on him but he only had eyes for her. He was so striking; she could almost cry because of his beauty.

“Wait here” she said as she slipped in to the dressing room for her change of clothes. She emerged and Jamie let out a small gasp. Claire changed into a navy blue dress that came just below her knee, with a deep neckline and sheer sleeves. She purposely matched Jamie’s color scheme for tonight was a special night.

“I look okay?” Claire sheepishly asked a still-gaping Jamie Fraser.

“Okay? Ye look so bonny, Sassenach” Jamie said appreciatively. At the end of the dressing room, a full-length mirror caught their reflection and Claire smirked at little devilishly. He looked dashing and she looked not bad herself and together, they just stun. They were beautiful and the world was going to see it. She grabbed Jamie by the hand and they went home.

-

The sky was dusk by the time the left the store and the drive back looked lovely with the orange sky combined with the emerging city lights. Claire and Jamie, again, exchanged questions and answers about what everything was and she was pleased that Jamie was adapting fairly faster and better than she hoped.

But a few minutes before they reached the manse, Claire noticed Jamie’s silence and was suddenly on alert. Before they walked to the door, she couldn’t take it anymore. “Jamie, what is it?” she turned and focused on him.

Jamie’s face was flushed and serious. “I’m sorry, Claire. I’m sorry that you have to explain everything to me. I ask for ye’re patience. I promise I’ll learn what I have to as quickly as I could but until then, I’m afraid I am at your mercy”

“What? Jamie, patient with you? Do you remember how you taught me everything I had to know in the 18thcentury? How you translated every song in Gaelic that I couldn’t understand? How you ate with me in the hall because no one would sit with a Sassenach, an alleged spy of the English? How you would defend me to the clansmen who thought against me? How you led me back to safety each time I got too stubborn for my own doing?” Claire began explaining as she gently caressed Jamie’s cheek. “I have all the patience in the world for you”

Jamie nodded in understand but Claire could see in his eyes that there is more. “What else?”

“Our daughter? She – She knows…everything?” Jamie quietly asked.

“Yes. She does.” Claire said proudly. “But Jamie she’s only known a week. She’s still adjusting to the truth and now that you’re here, I know she feels just beyond overwhelmed. But I know our girl, she loves you already, and you’ll get the chance to get to know her now”

“Aye, I know how she feels” Jamie said dejectedly. Coming through the stones was something they never thought was possible. They tried before but to no avail. But today has been an embarrassment of riches and she is with Claire and their child and he will do everything in his power to keep them with him. But the world has rapidly changed around him and Claire is the only constant in them. She had to be the strong one for all of them until they he and Bree can patch their own way together and for Claire, he will do just that. “Dinna fash, Claire. We’ll all make do eventually.”

He opened his arms and quickly, she is wrapped in his embrace. “Thank you, mo ghraidh”.

“I missed this.” Claire said contently. “I missed you.”

“And I, you, Sassenach. Do you ken why I was at the stones yesterday? What today is?” Jamie asked, hopeful.

At first, Claire’s brows furrowed and Jamie felt his heart drop a bit, Have she forgotten a lot from our lives?, he thought. He couldn’t blame her, it has been twenty years and she had Bree, medical school, a lot in her life in the last two decades.

His thoughts were interrupted by a giggle that reverberated in his chest. “You should see the look on your face right now,” slightly patting his chest. She looked up and looked in his eyes, willing them to focus on her and cradled his face in her hands. “Jamie, I remember everything about our time together…everything.”

In the solitude of the deserted driveway, she pulled him down to her, closing the distance between them and slowly captured his lips in a long kiss. “Happy Birthday, Jamie. I am so happy you’re here and that I get to spend today and everyday with you, from now on and for the rest of our lives…I mean, if you’ll have me, have us”

Jamie gave her the broadest smile, “Sadist”, he jokingly remarked and captured her lips in a chaste kiss and she laughed while their lips were connected, the hum that passed through made his heart swell. “And Claire, I’ll always have you”. They continued to kiss and he brushed his tongue against her lips, requesting access. But she pulled away, confusing Jamie.

“I’m sorry, love, but don’t have time for that just yet” Claire pulled up a black fabric and looked at Jamie. “Do you trust me?”

“Aye.”

She smiled as she pulled it over his eyes and secured it at back of his head. She grabbed his hand and led him through the house. Jamie, having scoured it earlier in the day, was almost sure they were at the backyard. He freed his eyes and the sight before him had his heart melting.

“SURPRISE!!” Fiona, Roger, Bree and Claire exclaimed. The backyard was decorated with vintage string lights that gave the night its intimate glow. The long table was filled with food of different kinds and cuisines but he can spot the Scottish treats they put out as well.

It was a bonny night and Jamie turned to Claire, his perplexed look slowly changing to one of awe. “I love you, mo chride”. He lifted her chin and brought their lips together in a quick but deep kiss. “I love you, too”

Brianna cleared her throat and her parents. “Well, if you are finished?”

They all ate in contentment, exchanging stories of the day and how the surprise came to be. Jamie was right, the half truth of Brianna’s excuse earlier in the morning, it somehow pleased him that in the few hours he’s known his daughter, maybe, he can read her just like her mother. Claire shared how the women swooned over Jamie in the department store and Fiona just complained how Roger tried to help with the cooking but was no use at all. Roger told of his new colleagues in the university and how the office pranks have begun on them.

They talked and laughed until the night was high, food was gone and the wine was thoroughly consumed. Fiona started to pack up and Roger rose to help her haul the dishes, leaving the Fraserfamily on their own.

“I was travelling back from Edinburgh when I stopped by the stones. I do it often just to talk to you, Claire, and imagine what you’d say to me. I know it’s daft but it’s the last place where we were together and sometimes I feel like I could hear your voice answering to me.” Jamie broke the silence. “Jenny told me to come home and spend time with family and by the miracle of the last 24 hours, I do.” He extended a hand to each of his lass and they took it. “Thank ye, both, for making this day the best one I’ve had in my life so far” He kissed each hand in gratitude.

They heard a click of the camera and three heads looked up to Roger who couldn’t help but smile himself. “I know it’s been a long night but I thought, maybe, you’d like to mark this day?”

Before anything, Claire explained how the camera worked and how the photos are developed. “What is captured in each click is what you’ll see in the photos later” Bree chimed in before they started.

They rose up and posed in the light. Luckily, Roger had kept a few rolls of film at his disposal and didn’t mind at all using it to the reunited family.

The first few shots were of the three of them – Jamie had his arms around both his lasses, another where Bree was sitting with both her parents at the back, one hand each on her shoulder, a few shots of Claire and Bree only when Jamie had to excuse himself to the loo.

When he came back, Claire was waiting for him to pose just the two of them. Jamie immediately went to her side, his arm on her back, snuggled together – a perfect fit. Roger called out for them to pose a little more.

Arms around each other smiling towards the camera,

Claire angling her body closer to Jamie’s,

Jamie lovingly gazed down at Claire when she wasn’t looking,

Claire looking up and smiling at Jamie’s face,

Jamie giving Claire a peck on the cheeks,

Them looking at each other like they’re the only people in the world,

Both leaning in for a kiss,

Click.

-

It has been an eventful 48 hours that nobody realized that everybody’s been awake for that long. After their dinner, they all retired for a much deserved rest.

Bree retreated to the newly arranged bedroom, giving Claire and Jamie their own.

They both changed in the bathroom, still a little hesitant to be that intimate with each other. When Claire entered, Jamie was already sleeping, his body angled to his side. She thought he’d wait for her but apparently not. She laid down beside him and observed his face, a finger tracing his features and highlighting new lines in his face that wasn’t there before. They both grew up and grew old and surely there is a story that they may or may not want to hear.

But nothing else mattered tonight but this. Everything else can wait for tomorrow.

Slowly, she run her hand at the back of his neck and there it was – a tug of his lips that formed a small smile. Jamie was happy and so was she.

In My Head - Rafael x MC

Summary: A commentary of MC Jaya’s thoughts during the date with Rafael last chapter. 

A/N: My brain - and by extension Jaya’s - is weird. Sorry. You have been warned. This is kinda bad but idc

Tags:  @chantelle-x0x , @choicessa, @mariamulroney , @drakewalkerwhipped , @thewolvesss ,  @mfackenthal , @srawesleyghuewrites , @topsyturvy-dream , @enmchoices , @gardeningourmet @debramcg1106 , @alesana45 , @meladoridarcy, @blackcatkita , @tmarie82 , @annekebbphotography , @lizk77 , @jayjay879 , @tornbetween2loves , @akrenich , @theroyalweisme , @likethetailofacomet , @sleepwalkingelite , @littleblossom-18 , @ooo-barff-ooo , @drakewalker04 , @mkatschoicesblog , 

Rafael Aveiro: @kennaloverofdragons , @ifyouseekheart , @brightpinkpeppercorn

Jaya FC: Pooja Hegde

Shower? Done. Deep condition? Done. Moisturise? Done. Shave? Goddamn Jaya its the first date, nothing’s gonna happen. Rafael Aveiro is not that kind of guy… And I am not that kind of girl.. 

Standards. Yep totally got those. 

Okay okay, time for the most important part of date prep. Picking the outfit.

What did he say again? Dress comfy.. Comfy, Mr Aveiro, means my panda onesie and Ugg boots. I hardly think thats first date material right there. Unless it was a movie date, and we got to build the PERFECT outfit. 

Think casual but cute. Classy but not like we’re trying too hard. Yep okay lets go. Ooo this dress is cute and it could pair it with those cream wedges... Where are they - NOOO. That stupid chocolate stain from my going away party is STILL there? 

So scrapping that idea. What about that leather skirt… Found it. Okay nope. I look like a hoe in that. We’re going for wholesome not HOEsome here. 

 What do I feel casual in? Pencil skirt? Dress? Jeans? Ugh Raf could you be anymore ambiguous in your description? Don’t you know that girls require a detailed agenda of what we will be doing on the date so we can plan our outfit accordingly??

Oh my god why do I not have anything nice to wear?? 

Ughhhhh I just wanna throw out my whole wardrobe and start again.. I wish Asos had instant delivery like you payed the the thing and it would just magically show up in your closet. I could put together a killer outfit in minutes.. 

Too plain… too boring… I’m pretty sure that should be in my laundry pile… That’s my lab coat.. 

Oh that’s a cute skirt… I’m pretty sure I wore that to the concert with Bryce… I don’t wanna outfit repeat though… 

Does this match.. 

Nope. 

WHY CAN'T I FIND ANYTHING TO WEAR?? 

Everything I have makes me look too short, too fat or like I’m trying too hard. I just wanted jeans and a nice top but evidently that’s too much to ask.. 

 What would Lois Lane wear? Wait how cold is it going to be tonight? 

 …Okay no skirts then. Alright he said dinner so that means no white or light colours coz we don’t know where we’re going so lets just go with jeans and maybe I could go with that burgundy off shoulder top I got last week? Huh.. that actually doesn’t look too bad. 

 Damn I actually look kinda good… Lets hope he thinks so too.

Alright now to give this mane a quick blow dry. Ugh why do I have my hair so long again? I literally do nothing with it but chuck it up in a pony tail… I should chop it off, do a new year, new me thing for spring or something.. 

Okay done. 

Now make up. Think classy and cute. Lets put on some music…. Hmmm.. Bollywood Jams… What haven’t I listened to in a while.. Got it.

Panghat pe aake saiyyan marode baiyaan And everybody blames it on Radha Chhedde hai humka daiyaan, bairi Kanhaiya And everybody blames it on Radha

*Twenty minutes of singing and dancing later* 

 Okay Jaya focus. Focus like your life depends on it.

 Time for *deep breath* Eyeliner.. 

Don’t… make… a…move… Okay that actually looks good. Time for the other one. Don’t… make… a…move… Fuck they don’t match… I’ll just make the other one thicker… Not that thick! Maybe I can use some concealer and make fix… Nope now that one’s too short.. Maybe… okay that looks worse… 

Fuck eye makeup I’m just gonna skip it

Are hoops too much for a first date? Do I subscribe to that ‘the bigger the hoop, the bigger the hoe’ thing…? Maybe… 

Nows not the time for experimenting Jaya. Focus. Now lipstick.. I cooooould go with red.. Who am I? Priyanka Chopra? Oh wait even Priyanka doesn’t wear red… Ok PC don’t let me down, I’m going with nude.. 

Shit is that the bell?! Okay okay, wallet, phone, shoes, I haven’t picked shoes yet! Ugh okay lets hope he doesn’t notice the chocolate stain.

Coming, coming. Oh wow he looks hot. I mean how does he make just a green jacket and t-shirt look good. Remember to speak Jaya. Say hi. Keep it cool. Goddamn Superman, you’ve got one adorable smile. Huh this old thing? Its just something I threw on… in pure desperation and defeat. 

 Omg guys pls don’t make a huge deal of this… I am so getting a roasting when this is over. 

 Please let’s go. Hang on where are we going? This is true. He can’t show me the city from indoors. Guess we’re doing an outdoor thing then...Apparently its a surprise. I can do this whole spontaneous thing.. Yep easy peasy.. so not still wondering if I’ve over dressed but if his outfit is anything to go off I think I should be fine? 

Umm do you know where we’re going? Coz i have no idea. And I hope you’re not taking me some place to get mugged. DONT say that out loud Jaya. Focus on the conversation.. He’s asking you if you like Boston..

God he’s gorgeous. And humble too. So different from any other guy I’ve dated. From any other guy I’ve met actually… They don’t make em like they made you Rafael Aveiro. 

He claims he’s not Superman but this is totally a Clark Kent outfit.. just missing some glasses. I bet he’d look hot in glasses. Does he wear glasses? I need to know immediately. Nope he doesn’t. 20-20 vision… Just like Superman.

WOAH 

I would have totally missed this place if I hadn’t known it was here… or hadn’t had my own personal Superman showing me around. Heh. 

Okay enough superman jokes. 

I don’t even know where to look, the food, the smells, the sounds, the people, its kinda like the night markets back home. And oh my god what is that smell? Best street food in Boston… Yep I don’t doubt that for a second...

….Is it too cliche if I say Indian food? Coz I have been dying for some Aloo gobi since I came to Boston and — THEY HAVE CHANA MASALA!?!? IM TAKING IT ALL SORRY NOT SORRY Subhanu you’ll be out of business by the time Jaya Da Silva is done with you. 

 Wait he knows everyone here? And they know him? Did he like… save everyone in this city or something? 

 Okay wow this is getting a bit crowded, is it too cliche if I grab his hand? Almost… there… Oh were at our seats… Bummer. 

Did he just… pull out the chair for me? Homeboy is earning some major points over here… I am impressed.

Damn he really does know everyone. If that wasn’t so impressed, I’ve be suspicious. Oh wait he’s grown up with these people. That explains it.

Community man.. Family man. Good match.. God I sound like the aunties back in Chennai. 

He’s way too adorable to be single. A sweet guy, who cares about the community and is genuinely kind and smart? Guys like him do NOT pop out of no where… What are the chances he’s got some crazy dark secret.. 

Goddamn Jaya calm down with the analysing. Just relax. 

Crap he just asked me about my community? What part should I tell him? The crazy expectations, the insane reputations to uphold or the life ruining rumours? Lie Jaya. You gotta lie. You can’t dump the truth on him this early on. He’s a nice guy but even he will turn tail and run if you tell him about your m-

Oh our foods here. OMG I apologise in advance but this has got to be one of the best chana masala’s I’ve ever seen. Patti would feel threatened. Let’s see how it tastes. SO FLIPPING GOOD. OH MAH GAAAHH 

Raf I hope you don’t mind if I pig out coz I’ve been dying for Patti’s food and this is the closest I’m probably gonna get and this is pretty damn close.

Is he looking at me enough? Omg is he looking at me too much? Don’t have something on my face? Okay lets subtly move your hand up and.. okay that was subtle enough right? Holy crap I had gravy on my mouth and he didn’t say anything… Maybe it wasn’t noticeable?

Do I prefer a community or my own space? Hmmm… How do I answer this tactfully…

Oh this is nice. We’re picking up a rhythm here. Just casual chatting… He is actually really funny… 

Okay Rafael Aveiro I see you. You’ve got that hidden sass in you that I sure as hell am going to bring out… 

Oh damn I stand corrected, we are already at the roasting phase — more like a slight toasting really but he’s bring up The Grand Bathrobe Incident of two weeks ago. Oh great, I am never going to live that down. But hey if it landed me here I have no regrets...

Wow he’s actually got a bit of green in his eyes. I never noticed that. Why have I never noticed that? Probably because I’ve never been this close to see it…? 

Oh wait I need a mint. All this chicken tikka and garlic I am gonna to do a major refresh if we’re going to do any kissing… or whatever. 

Wait he just gave me a look. What does that mean? Are we going to… no it can’t be. Omg I did NOT wear my cute underwear.. what if we have sex? Nope Jaya nope. No sex on the first date. No matter how cute the green in Superman’s eyes are. 

 Hmm guess not… Anyways

*Later*

No way he likes the same flavour of Skittles as me! He’s already planning a movie night for us? Wait is that a hint at another date? Or was it just a general thing? 

 Wait where is everyone else? Are we the last ones here? Hang on a second how did he pay without me noticing?? Nope I can’t let him pay, I- He’s not hearing any of it. Okay fine I won’t argue but next time I’m paying.

Did he just… ask to walk me home? Can this man get any more precious??? Of course honey you can. Gosh I’m melting right now, this is so adorable… 

Oh my god, our fingers brushed. They brushed again.. And again… Please take my hand, please take my hand. I really wanna hold yours but I’m too socially awkward to do that.. Thank god he got the hint. This is nice… real nice…

Okay that walk was way too short for anything to happen. We’e stopped outside my porch. I am SO happy I ran into you Raf. you made my shitty day so much better. Oh god this is like one of those movies where they stand outside the door for ages not wanting to say anything… I really wanna kiss him. Goddamn he’s dreamy as hell… 

How do I tell him I want him to kiss the life out of me without… you know.. telling him I want him to kiss the life out of me?

He’s gonna say goodnight? Wait THATS it? Just a goodnight and go? Wait I think he got the hint, he’s taking a step closer. Wow he’s tall, I’ve always liked them tall dark an handsome.. His eyes… wow..

Oh my god is this really happening? Does he want to kiss me? Of course he wants to kiss you, you dolt, he’s leaning in closer. Can’t you see the look in his eyes? Why is he waiting… Crap he’s waiting for me.. What if I’ve misjudged this whole — Oh fuck it here goes. 

Mmmm 

Woah.. 

Abshhgkl… can’t… articulate… kiss... too good… 

Breathe Jaya breathe. All tingly now. His arms are so strong… He can leave them around me… He doesn’t have to let go just yet… God he has the most amazing shy smile.. I could kiss him again… and again… and never stop… Do we have to stop? 

Oh yep he wants to stop. Thats…not unexpected… He wants to take it slow remember? Its probably a good thing. I don’t know what I’d do if I managed to sneak him upstairs — out of sight to all my roommates of course — get him pinned up against the wall, inch my fingers up that nice but totally unnecessary shirt of his — I bet he’s got amazing abs too — and just — 

Jaya! Stop it. Stop perving on the nice boy! This is your first date, he already wants to take it slow, lets not ruin this by not being able to keep it in your pants. Now pull yourself together and say goodnight. 

This is like a freaking rom com. Am I in Love Actually right now? He’s actually waiting for me to get in the house before leaving. Chivalry is obviously not dead everyone. Rafael Aveiro alone is keeping it alive. 

Oh fuck my keys, where are they where are they, shit hurry up he’s waiting for you to get in, don’t ruin the moment for me stupid k— Ah finally. 

He looks too adorable to leave out on the front porch. Smile and say goodnight Jaya like a grown ass adult. I really want run over and kiss him. And from the way he’s looking at me, I think he wants to too? 

Nope self control Jaya. This is what we practice in this household. Close the door and go upstair— Oh my god he’s whistling as he walks away. Ahhh does that mean he had a good time? Because I sure as hell did. I hope he asks me out again. Or I could ask him out this time. 

Either way I hope we can see a lot more of each other soon because you are something else Superman. Something else indeed.