#michael clifford fluffy imagine | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

lovesosweeet · 6 years

Text

LOL x The WLDLFE (c.h.) imagine

LOL x The WLDLFE

summary: calum’s friends meet y/n and it doesn’t go how they wanted.

Calum liked to keep the people he dated separate from his friends. It’s not that he didn’t like either party well enough, or that he was ashamed of either. It’s that he knew that they’d get along well—well enough that they would become friends inevitably. And it’s hard to break up with someone when they’ve weaved their way into the fabric of your social circles.

He didn’t like to make anyone else have to choose between him and his former partners or to make things awkward. In order for Calum to introduce someone he was dating to his friends, or even mention their name to his friends, he had to be serious about them, i.e. serious enough that he had no future breakup in sight. At least, he had to have no intentions of breaking up with them any time soon.

Beyond that, he wasn’t exactly out of the public eye. People he was with would be known. And he couldn’t be seen with someone new every other week or month. He had to keep his private life private until it was something he was really sure about.

All this was hard for Y/N, though she understood it perfectly. He had met her friends long ago, after a month or so of them dating, at her best friend’s birthday party, due to her best friend’s insistence upon meeting the boy who had her so damn smitten. She didn’t push it, though, not wanting to ruin anything with someone she was already over halfway fallen for.

Neither Calum nor she had expected that today would be the day that she met two of his best friends.

He, Ashton, and Luke were out at lunch with Michael when she called, saying she was at the beach with her dogs and her car wouldn’t start. She would have called for an Uber, but the dogs were sandy and wet, something a tip for the driver probably wouldn’t cover. She was too nice to ruin a stranger’s car, someone who was just trying to make ends meet. Letting her dogs get wet sand all over their back seat would possibly, probably, prohibit them from driving anyone else for the rest of the day, or would ensure a lack of tips for the rest of the day.

However, calling Calum and asking him to pick her up was a different story. She could vacuum out his car herself the next day or give him money to help cover getting it cleaned professionally.

Little did she know, Calum wouldn’t be picking her up in his own car. No, Ashton had driven Luke and Calum to lunch, since he lives with Luke and Calum had gone over earlier in the day, something he does almost as often as he goes over to Y/N’s on her days off. He didn’t have the guts to tell the already flustered girl on the call that she would also be meeting two of his best friends today.

“So, who’s this girl, exactly?” Ashton asks, making eye contact with Calum in his rearview mirror.

Calum flushes a deep shade of nervous pink. Only now does he realize that he’s never told his friends he was seeing anyone. After so many failed dating attempts, he stopped telling his friends he was dating someone. He would tell his friends he was seeing someone, it wouldn’t work out, and then the next week he would go out with a new girl and it would confuse people that it was someone different, who, yet again, didn’t work out.

But Y/N did work out--does. She’s stuck around, and he doesn’t want her going anywhere. He’ll be with her as long as she will let him, and he really hopes that’s for a long time.

Is this the right time to tell his friends the girl they’re picking up at the beach with a broken down car is... indescribable?

She’s a major score, in the least objectifying way. She’s the type of girl he dreamt of meeting, dating, being with, when he was 17. She’s kind, and funny, and silly, and generous, and easy to talk to, and it’s almost fucking ridiculous how perfectly her hand locks with his and how Duke gets along so perfectly with her two dogs (and her damn cat).

Does he drop it on his friends that he’s dating a homerun of a girl that they’ve never even heard of whom he’s well on the way to being in love with right now? No... no, he can’t. Michael’s not even here. He can’t tell the two of them without telling the third.

Surely there’s a better time than on the 103 degree day in the middle of the summer, when Y/N is at the beach with her dogs, a pair of high waisted cotton shorts sticking to her thighs, her t-shirt a lost cause, discarded in a heap on the sandy pavement next to her, her pale blue sports bra drenched in splotches of sweat. Surely she’d rather be introduced as his girl on a day when she actually washed her hair and doesn’t have an angry sunburn painting her nose, or when there isn’t a layer of sand coating her legs and arms, no matter how many times she tries to brush it off.

“She’s... a friend,” Calum mumbles. He doesn’t sound convincing. He wouldn’t believe himself, really. Yet, even with his lack of conviction, Luke and Ashton just nod, giving each other a knowing smile that Calum is too dazed to notice.

Ashton pulls into the parking lot at the beach access to which Y/N had texted Calum the address, Calum’s eye’s immediately spotting her next to her beat up little hatchback with a million stickers littering the rear window and bumper, her two dogs laying in the shade of the car with Y/N standing next to them, watching the entrance of the lot closely for Calum’s car.

“I’m guessing she’s the one with the dogs?” Luke quips and chuckles, but Ashton is already driving over to the corner of the lot where she’s waiting for a car that isn’t going to come. Calum doesn’t know that Ashton knows what she looks like, but Ashton has seen her as his home screen on Cal’s phone and would recognize the natural beauty anywhere.

Calum already has his seatbelt undone before Ashton can manage to put the car into park. “You guys can wait in here in the air con,” he says, opening the door and hopping onto the pavement swiftly. “And don’t you fucking dare say anything stupid when she gets in here.”

Luke and Ashton just shake their heads and laugh, watching Calum hurry over to Y/N, who has a very confused facial expression at the moment.

“Calum!” She hisses when he’s close enough to her that he can hear her quiet voice. He reaches out to get her shirt off the ground and take her tote bag (containing her keys, sunscreen, empty water bottle, collapsable dog bowl, and poop bags) from her shoulder.

He gives her a nervous smile, uncertain about the best way to explain the situation to her. “I’m sorry!” He practically winces under her increasingly angered glare.

“Since when am I supposed to be meeting your band mates to-fucking-day?”

“I know, I’m sorry--I couldn’t just leave you out here, though, and we were out at lunch and Ash drove and I didn’t want to make him take me back to their apartment so I could get my own car when you were out here in this heat and the dogs are probably tired and thirsty and it would take so much longer if we didn’t do it this way and I know you’d rather do this under different circumstances...” Calum’s words fall from his chapped lips in an anxiety filled jumble that make Y/N’s mood soften to almost regretting that she had gotten kind of angry at him.

He was just trying to help her out.

“It’s... it’s okay... I just, I don’t even know how to--what do I say? Why didn’t you tell me!?” She’s talking to herself more than she is to Calum, pausing as she looks down at her sweaty, sandy body and her lazy attire. “Damn it, I look like a freaking mess!”

Calum reaches a hand out to rest on her arm (he would normally go for her waist, but he knows Luke and Ashton are watching them), “Baby, you look cute. It’s a million degrees out today, we all look like a mess.”

She rolls her eyes at him saying she looks cute but says nothing to dispute it, too hot and too tired to really drag out the conversation outside of the air conditioned car waiting a few feet away. “Whatever, let’s just get this over with. That’s Ash in the driver’s seat and Luke in the passenger, right?”

She pulls on her dogs’ leashes to catch their attention, both of them previously having fallen asleep on the pavement a few moments prior. They see their friend Calum standing there and start to wag their tails, nudging his legs with their heads to catch his attention. He doesn’t look away from his girl, his grip on her arm tightening slightly. “Wait, they don’t...”

Y/N raises her eyebrows in question.

“They don’t know that we’re... together.” He breathes out.

Her face falls, a harsh pang of hurt stabbing her gut. Is he that ashamed of her? She knew his whole not introducing the people he’s dating to his friends policy, but the fact is, she’s about the meet them, they’ve been dating for almost three months, and she’s almost let it slip that she loves him at least two times because she knows it’s too early to say so.

But she recovers quickly, a neutral expression taking over, though not before Calum watches the hurt flash in her eyes. “Oh... okay.” She then starts to walk to the car, opening the door to the back seat on the passenger side, since she noticed Calum was on the driver’s side when he got out a little bit ago. She doesn’t know what else to say, and Calum doesn’t get a chance to speak to her before she has the door open and she’s helping her dogs climb into the car.

“Well, hello,” Ashton cheers, turning around in his seat and smiling widely at the sweaty girl in his back seat with a very sandy dog on her lap. “I’m Ashton.”

She smiles. “Hi, thanks for letting us get sand all over your car. I really, really appreciate it.”

Calum is sitting in the seat next to her before she knows it, his eyes flickering between each of his friends and his girl and the dog that’s got their paws on his lap, desperately whining for his affection. “Guys, this is my friend Y/N and her dogs.” He pets the matted, sandy fur of the cuddly dog in his face, knowing that she’s always relentless in her quest for pets and scratches.

Luke introduces himself too once the doors are shut, seatbelts are fastened, and Ashton is driving out of the lot.

Calum reaches his hand that isn’t petting the dog to try and grip Y/N’s hand in his, but she pulls it away as soon as there is the slightest bit of contact. She doesn’t know what to feel. She knows Calum cares about her, but the fact that he’s met her friends and Skyped with her family and bought her mom a birthday gift last month yet he can’t so much as tell two of his closest friends that the overheated girl they just picked up at the beach is actually someone he’s been seeing romantically.

What if she’s not the only one?

What if that’s why she hasn’t met them?

What if there’s another girl that has met his friends and he can’t have two girls who know his friends so right now she’s just some random friend with two dogs to his friends and to him she’s another booty call and pet sitter when he goes out of town?

It hurts, deep down in her stomach.

From: squuuiiiisssshhy (3)

The notifications from Calum make her phone vibrate in her hand for a few seconds. She looks over at him, finding him staring at her intently, his phone unlocked in his hand with a large section of blue speech bubble displayed on the screen from their chain of messages. He nods his head as some form of signal to open them.

She sighs, giving in quickly, opening the messages.

From: squuuiiiisssshhy

i’m so so so sorry

From: squuuiiiisssshhy

the only reason i didn’t tell them about us is because mike’s not here and i didn’t want to just spring it on them haphazardly because of the situation

From: squuuiiiisssshhy

you deserve for me to have a proper afternoon chat with my boys about this amazing girl i’m dating and how cute and sexy she is and how half the time i’m with her i can’t fucking breathe because she’s so fucking perfect

She looks up from her phone, chewing on her lip as she locks eyes with her brown eyed boy again, practically melting from their warmth. Even after she’d been in the blazing heat all day, there’s nothing that lights a fire in her heart like him. She nods at him, mouthing an ‘okay’ as she reaches her hand out to grip his like she’d denied him seconds ago.

Her phone vibrates again a few seconds later, still unlocked from her reading the initial three messages. She has to use her hand to cover her mouth when she reads the newest message from Calum.

From: squuuiiiisssshhy

can i kiss you now

Y/N rolls her eyes but leans over the space between them, meeting Calum halfway so their lips can touch gently for a few glorious, secret seconds, trying to make sure the two in the front seat don’t see. As they pull away, Calum kisses her nose and laughs silently as her sunburnt cheeks turn even darker.

After Ashton drops Y/N off at her place, he drives himself, Luke, and Calum back to the Lashton apartment so Calum can retrieve his car, probably to head over to Y/N’s with Duke for the rest of the afternoon.

“By the way, Cal, we totally saw that,” Luke announces smugly, and both Ashton and Calum immediately know exactly what he’s referring to, making Ashton start to laugh loudly along with Luke and Calum to groan, slump down in his seat, and his cheeks to burn more than Y/N’s were with the sun.

wanna request something?

wanna read my other imagines/blurbs?

wanna read my longer writings (fanfictions)?

@lasagnamichael @hemmings-heart @myboyfriendsadrummer @rosecth @gigglyirwin

51 notes · View notes

askforimagineoroneshot · 6 years

Text

Michael Clifford imagine | After break up care

Requested one Anon: Hi, can you write imagine where Michael from 5sos breaks up with his girlfriend Crystal and comes to the reader for comfort. The reader is secretly in love with him. Fluffy one please? Thanks!

*gif is not mine* *imagine is mine*

MASTERLIST

Reader's point of view

As soon as I opened the door to my apartment I knew something was wrong. I looked into Michael's eyes and my heart broke into a hundred pieces.

“Michael? What happened?” I asked immediately.

“Well, let's just say I had a bad day. Can I come in?” he asked.

I let him in and closed the door behind us. We went to the living room and sat down. His eyes were red. He was crying. How long? For what reason? Hard to say.

“You know you can tell me anything right?” I tried it again.

“Y/n, you were right.” That was it. The only thing he told me. So I waited. I was sitting next to him. I felt the need to hug him but I held back. He needed some space.

“Me and Crystal. When you said, in the beginning, that maybe I should go slow. We had another fight.” He played with his fingers. He didn't look at me.

“About?” I don't want to be annoying but I was angry. She didn't deserve him. He is an angel. My everything.

“Well, it wasn't just fighting. I think we broke up.” It was the first time he looked up. It was just second but still.

Was I happy? Maybe. If they break up it will mean that he has a chance to be happy again. There isn't a way I will be happy. Any girl he will bring for me to meet I will hear the same noise of my heart breaking. Am I in love with him? Yes. Since high school, from the very beginning.

Every time he came to my parent's house with pizza to movie marathon I fell deeper and deeper in love with him. Every time he coloured his hair I was the one that was right next to him. But also I was the one that heard This is the girl I've been telling you about.

It's a curse. It's pain but he is the only thing I care about enough to die for. Yes, I am dramatic but it is what it is.

“We were recording. You know, with boys. We ended sooner than expected so I wanted to surprise her. When I got home I found her with some blond guy.” He started describing the situation that occured.

WOW. Is she serious? She was never enough for him. And I knew it.

“I am sorry Michael. I really am. If there is anything I can do for you, let me know.” I get a little closer to him to offer some comfort.

“I just need time. I think.”

Timeskip

Michael went to shower and I stayed downstairs. I was on my phone when I heard the doorbell. So I went to the door, knowing who that was already.

“Hi. I know he's here. Let me in.” Crystal it was.

“No.” God, I wish I could hit her in that pretty face of hers.

“What do you mean?” She looked surprised. “You're his best friend.”

“That is the reason.” I put my y/c/h out of my face. “You were never enough for him. No matter what others say. He is too good for you. You never tried hard enough.” I wanted her to know how much I hated her for everything she ever did to him.

“But you are enough?” She laughs. “You are everything just not brave enough to tell him that you love him.”

Michael's point of view

I just got out of the shower when I heard the voices. So I just put my jeans on and went to see who it was.

“But you are enough? You are everything just not brave enough to tell him that you love him.”

I heard Crystal at the door of y/n house. I couldn't believe it. She felt the same way about me? I mean, yeah, we know each other since I can remember but I never imagined that she feels the same way I felt.

“You really believe that he loves his best friend. This is not a movie, little girl. He sees you like a sister doesn't be disgusting.”

That was the moment I could not just listen. I could not hold back. Not after everything. I need to step up.

“Crystal, what do you want here?” My voice stops their interaction.

“Love! I am here to explain. It wasn't what it looked like.” S he started but I wasn't buying it.

“I don't want to hear it. Look, it's over. Do what is going to make you happy and I will do the same.” I was tired of her. It was just too much.

Reader's point of view

“Love! I am here to explain. It wasn't what it looked like.”

That was the moment I left them alone. I was broken. I wanted to make Crystal sad. I wanted her to be as broken as Michael was, but she doesn't have a heart for it. The only thing that just had to happen now was that I was as broken as Micheal was.

“Y/n!” I heard behind me so I quickly wiped my tears away.

“Yes.” I turn around to see shirtless Michael there. I looked away and started to make tea for myself. “You want some?” I offered him.

“Were you telling the truth?” So he heard us. My life with him, even just as a friend, is over.

“What do you mean?” I tried so desperately to play dump. Maybe it will work.

He took my hand and stopped what I was doing. “I mean what you were talking about. About your feelings. About everything.”

I couldn't hold back the tears anymore. Not after so many years of lying and hiding.

“Leave me be.” I tried to pull away from him but unsuccessfully.

“No. I have to tell you something.” We both sounded desperately but for very different reasons.

“No!” I cry out. I finally got away from him and ran upstairs. I shut the door behind me and hoped for a miracle. When I heard footsteps, I knew o no miracle was about to happen.

“Open the door. Y/n listen to me. You don't understand! I had to tell you something important.”

“You can tell me that you will forget what you had heard and we can pretend nothing happened,” I shouted at the door. I am sure that he can hear tears in my voice. I wasn't even hiding them anymore.

“I am sorry, I can't do that.” Wanting to tell me more but I couldn't let him. My heart was already in too many pieces.

“Then leave.” I didn't let him finish.

“Listen!” Now he was shouting too.”I can not do that because I love you too. I was just scared and stupid. I didn't want to lose you. I am sorry. I thought I was protecting you but you only suffered because of me.” His yells wew just as broken by the tears we were both drowning in.

Silent. I didn't know what to do. It took me a minute to open the door and see Michael standing there. He didn't waisted a second to kiss me. After we pull away from each other everything changed. He was smiling and I was smiling. The world just became more tolerable to live in.

#5sos imagine #imagine #michael clifford imagine #Ashton irwin #luke hemmings #calum hood #5 seconds of summer #5sos imgaines #fluffy

30 notes · View notes

musicalmukebox · 6 years

Text

Let’s Get (Back) Together | l.h. (10)

Ctto of the gif!

AU: Parent Trap Dad!Luke

Summary: A strong love which led to a strong marriage and twin daughters. Yet in the end, it didn’t turn out so well. You strongly refuse to encounter him ever again. But what happens when both of you coincidentally send your twin daughters to the same summer camp in Florida after 10 years?

Word Count: 4.8k

Warnings: sensual content, angst

A/N: Mope with me, heartbreak sucks.

I don’t own Parent Trap and its ideas. It’s only used as inspiration.

1 / 2A / 2B / 2C / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15

Feedback/Questions/Others? Here.

2021, Los Angeles

“Thank God we took an Uber instead of you bringing a car.” You breathe in relief, walking hand in hand with Luke, crossfaded just like you. His eyes were quite red and his giggles were uncontrollable as his tall figure grew wobbly, leaning to your side. He couldn’t stop giving your cheek and neck kisses, and luckily, it was dark out.

The both of you just came from Calum’s place, celebrating his birthday with pizza, booze and lots of weed. Knowing that you both wanted to get wasted, you settled to take uber rides going there and going back. Yet, you made a detour to your favorite diner, Delilah’s in order to fulfill one thing: the munchies. It is a must to never avoid it.

Delilah’s has always been your go-to place no matter what you feel: sober, drunk, high or both, it’s an automatic quick fix. It has gotten to the point where you were both so common that the waiters and waitresses were so used to you and no longer ask for your orders. The 60 something year old owner Delilah herself included! It was around midnight that time, and strolling inside the familiar 50’s style diner aesthetic, you were glad that your usual booth by the end of one side of the dinner was empty.

“Luke! (Y/N)! Nice to see you both again!” Kelly, one of the waitresses around your age, welcomes you both as she led to your usual booth. “And judging by your eyes and Luke’s walking, you are both crossfaded.”

“You are correct once more, Kel.” You confirm, finally settling in the soft cushion of the booth while Luke sat on the other side of you. “I like this booth.” He says, rubbing the table then the cushion, his figure lowering at the booth. “So comfy.” He leaned back, throwing his legs on the table. Kelly didn’t bother, she was just as used to his crossfaded self as you were. Besides, it was late, so no one could give two shits. “So guys, the usual?” She kept on going.

“Oh yes please!” You beamed, smiling and giggling unstoppably as the hunger in your guts manipulated your mind fully. “Alright!” Kelly smiled back, contagious to you. “So (Y/N), are you feeling a double chocolate or Oreo milkshake?”

“Double!” You replied, holding up two fingers because two = double. Amazing logic, (Y/N).

“Got it! How about you, Luke? Coffee or peanut butter-banana milkshake?”

“C-Coffee! I want something as warm yet chill like me right now.” Luke’s voice sounded softer as his nerves pretty much toned down, like his body.

So, what’s the usual as said by Kelly?

Well, for you, you would get a double cheeseburger with extra chili con carne fries and either a double chocolate or Oreo milkshake. As for Luke, he would get the bacon cheeseburger with onion rings and either coffee or peanut butter-banana milkshake. The drinks really depend on your moods that day or night, but the food is always constant.

“Okay! This will take a good 15-20 minutes, any songs you want the jukebox to play?” Kelly refers to the vintage jukebox by the other side of the diner, which was revamped to not only play old classic songs of the 50’s, but there was from the 60’s up to the current day so people can jam along and reminisce too.

“In Too Deep by Sum 41.” Luke mumbles, fixated on his phone and taking random selfies which got you giggling. Kelly nodded without hesitation before directing your orders to the kitchen, already so used to you both in times like this at any times of the night where you would both decide to drive by.

Instantly, the first notes of the requested song played over the sizzling of patties and fries in the kitchen, yet the scent got you and Luke much more excited. “Fuck, I can’t wait to eat.” He says, his face now rested on his palms, elbows on the table.

“Same, munchies are real.” You prolonged the l, putting one leg on top of Luke’s lap while you rested against the red cushion whilst looking at him when he sees your leg, making your skirt fall back a bit and caught a glimpse of the red lace undies.

Intentional? 50/50, 50 percent tired, 50 percent horny.

“Well,” He smirks, trailing your shin and licks his lower lip. “Maybe you can help satisfy mine, at the restroom.”

“God, are you this horny high?” You groaned, yet you felt the same sexual frustration. But still, you wanted to respect the peace and order of the diner. “Later, if we aren’t still tired after this.”

Luke pouts in impatience and crosses his arms like a child. “Ugh, you are such a tease.”

“But you love it, baby.” You reply slowly yet sensually, driving him crazy down there. He thinks hiding his boner with his hands is enough for you not to see it, but nope. Just when you were about to point it out just for banter, Kelly returns to you both with trays on both hands.

“Double cheeseburger with extra 5-cheese fries and a double chocolate milkshake for you, (Y/N).” Kelly brings down a tray with your meal, which got your heart racing in hunger. “And a bacon cheeseburger with onion rings and coffee for a Mr. Luke High-mings.” She says with pride as she pulled off the pun and lays Luke’s tray of food on the table.

“Niiice one.” You high-fived Kelly, in which Luke whined back. “Hey! I don’t like the name.”

“Get over it babe, that’s our nickname for you now!” You say, sticking your tongue whilst Luke gave you the middle finger. Kelly just watches you with fooling around, and she gets all giddy. “God, you guys are so cute.”

Blushing red, which added to the flush you got from the alcohol, “Thanks Kelly, you say that almost every time we’re here.”

“I know, but I know real love when I see it.” She carried on. “Enjoy your meals, you two. Be careful too!” She leaves you to it, and in less a second, your proper eating manners were out that door. You devoured the delectable burger right in front of you, grabbing a handful of those fries too into your mouth. Luke’s hungry self got crazy and took huge bites of his burger, splattering some ketchup on the side of his lip. “Baby boy, you’re so messy!” You took a napkin from the dispenser and wiped the sauce off his face.

As you finished those fries and half your burger done, you felt chill again, your sobriety returning. Luke still had some intoxication in him, getting back to his leaning position earlier. He was looking at one side, spacing out and probably tripping out. He looked cute and sophisticated, you thought, especially with his curly hair messed up on his right hair mostly. So you took the chance to grab out your phone and take a photo, which got him from his moment when he heard the shutter sound.

“What was that for?” He asks, feeling shy as he took another bite of his burger. As you gave him your phone and showed the photo, he giggled. “I look weird.”

“Well, you are in general.” You shrugged your shoulders, stating facts. Subjective ones.

“Real mean, babe. Now in revenge, let me take a photo of you.” He snickers, grabbing him phone from the table, angling his phone so he can get a great shot of your face. “Lick the whip of your milkshake.”

“What? No, I look like a haggard after everything tonight!” You laughed at his random choice of pose, bashfully making your cover your face. “Why? You still look gorgeous to me.” He suavely compliments, bringing down as he was still holding his phone at the same angle. “Now come on! So we’re equal.”

He had a point. Lowering your head a bit to the edge of the milkshake, you closed your eyes and took a small lick of the whip. You held it for a few seconds before you heard the shutter sound. Relieved, you swallowed the whip, nervous about the shot. “I wanna see the picture, babe!” Handing you his phone, which smelt like grease from his meal, you glanced at the photo and gave a disgusted expression. “Eww, delete this!”

“Nah, you got me thinking dirty when I see this.” You couldn’t think of any comeback for this because it was draining to think, so you just continued sipping on your milkshake, watching Luke hum along to the random songs playing. But when the first lyrics of Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish began to play, he lit up in excitement, standing up and offering a hand to you.

“Come on, babe, let’s dance!”

“Luke, you can’t dance for shit.” You crossed your arms, shaking your head at his spontaneity. He frowns, kneeling down all of a sudden desperately. “Please, baby girl? Just this once.” He was never the begging type, especially since he loves being dominant and all.

“Fine.” But it was funny to see him like this, and you never slow danced with the boy, so tonight would be the first. Grabbing his hand and helping him get up, you dragged him to the mini dance floor near the jukebox, moving your bodies to the chill melody. He spun you a few times, even dipped you down, making you laugh because he could never do this with those long, stiff limbs of his. You placed one hand around his neck then the other in his free hand since his other hand rested on your lower back, your bodies getting closer, your movements growing slow and divulging more into the chill vibe. His eyes were just like the song, and you couldn’t stop yourself from looking right at them.

“Resisting you is fucking hard.” You cussed, resting your forehead against his.

“Can’t help that I’m so hot.” He says smugly, flipping his hair mockingly. Giggling, you continued to view his different facial features. The neon lights helped emphasize his blue eyes and plump lips more, which made your heart jump somersaults. You leaned in closer, your lips initiating a kiss on his. He had the bitter taste of coffee as your lips moved along the song. You pulled him a lot closer, the passion in your soul strengthening with every single touch you had with him. As much as you both of you weren’t fans of PDA, this felt right, needed even.

“You mean so much to me, you know?”

“I do, because you’re just as special to me. And that’s not the alcohol and weed talking.”

- - -

2034, Los Angeles

Last night’s series of events still startled you, especially when Timmy and Luke met again. Timmy wasn’t too happy when he brought you home, his jealousy flowing through his veins and words and starting an argument in the car. Yeah, he cared so much and didn’t want you to get hurt again, but at the same time, he shouldn’t have been such a snob. Good thing you sorted things out and he grew open when you told him that you and Luke were going sort things out, like getting closure and taking care of the twins because that type of stuff is hard. Even being able to talk sanely is hard enough.

But how?

Luke Hemmings: Lunch at Delilah’s? Around 1 pm.

You: Sure, but it’s not a date or anything.

Luke Hemmings: No worries, this is for our kids.

You were pretty lazy to drive that day, not to mention pretty hungover too. Thus, booking an Uber felt appropriate. Upon getting and riding one to Delilah’s, you were stopped at your tracks when the entrance doors had the sign “Closed for Private Event”. Well, shucks. Turning your back, you were typing a text to Luke about the occurrence, yet you were disrupted by bumping towards someone. “Oh, shit!” Luckily, you didn’t drop your phone, but encountered something else. None other than Luke, hair laid back and dressed in a black and white striped shirt with a black leather jacket that had some checkered detailing. He had on some rings too. Just like you, he had his shades on, so the paps won’t catch you too easily.

“Oh, hey there.” The blonde man greeted, giving you a side hug. “Hi. I was just about to text about that.” You pointed towards the sign, which surprisingly didn’t startle him. “Why? Now come on.” He leads you back to the entrance, opening it. Less than a few seconds, you caught on why he didn’t flinch a bit and following his direction.

“Wait you booked the whole place for the afternoon?” You say as you go inside the familiar diner, noticing a few changes in neon signs and repainted walls. The rest remained the same, like the red booths, checkered floors, various old school pictures and posters, and the jukebox on one side.

“Actually, until we finish which is pretty much anytime.” He answers, taking in the view of the place he hasn’t seen in so long. “You really like privacy, huh?” You state, being reminded of his reserved personality. “Of all people, you would know that, (Y/N).” His arms paved the way to your table, or booth rather. Staying in any of these booths would be okay, but he led you to a specific one at the end.

Settling down on opposite sides, you initiated for a much more full conversation. “Wow, I haven’t been here since 2024.” His expression soon looked drained out and disheartened, looking down as your heart sunk down too at the truth. “That was the year we divorced.”

“Yeah, not a good time.” You recall all the pain, shaking your head in order to forget and in order to distract yourself, you observed his fingers fidgeting on his phone. He was also trying to change the topic. “Likewise.” But instead, he was hit with nostalgia as he laid backwards a bit further on the red cushion. “This is where we would go here, drunk or sober, maybe even high. I remember it so clearly, even dancing there.” His pointer finger directed to the mini dance floor by the jukebox, the place you would just let yourself go, dance weirdly and shared some intimacy too. As much as the reminiscing was something you wanted to join along, you had to face reality. Talking about that felt wrong, especially when you both are together with different people.

“Well hello to you too.” Your discussion was interrupted by a familiar woman, rolling a tray cart of food. She also got a few wrinkles and cut her hair. A woman whom you haven’t seen since the divorce, and has witnessed your different states of mind back in your twenties.

“Oh my, Kelly!” You shrieked, getting up from your seat, giving a tight hug to which she returned. “How are you? You still work here?” Another fact about Kelly was that she worked at the diner to get extra cash to pay for college and her own personal reasons, but that was years ago though.

“I actually own this diner now.” She proudly acclaimed.

“Oh shit nice! You didn’t tell me this on the phone.” Luke says in shock, amazed with how far Kelly has come.

“You didn’t ask!” She chuckles. “I’ve owned it for 5 years now. It’s nice to see you both again.” Getting the plates of food from the tray, she served it to you both, followed by the beverages. “I figured you two would get the usual, with milkshakes like back in the day. Enjoy yourselves.” She leaves you both to it, urging either you or Luke to pick up where you left off. But first, eating, which was done all too quietly, which eventually led to an awkward tension, and neither of you could stand it.

“So Luke, what do you want to talk about?” You started off.

“Well, maybe we can start with what happened to us.” Luke replied bluntly. Discreetly, he was hurt when you broke that lane.

“Okay then. Honestly for me, it took a few years for me to fully accept these things happened.” You admitted truthfully, taking in some deep breaths because you just didn’t know what to expect from here.

“Same here, yet there are details that are pretty hazy, like everything ended so fast.”

“Well, everything started so fast, Luke.” You say glumly, wanting to change the topic badly because this will just bring the worse out of the both of you. Luke saved the sadness vibing in the booth. “So (Y/N), you achieved your dreams of being a successful actress, applying any job as an extra for sitcoms or movies I remember. Then you did it, now making you a household name.”

“Oh yes. But do you remember when I had a hard time telling my parents about it?” You engage, feeling much lighter.

“They got over it though, right?” Luke added as you nodded.

Enough about you, you switched focus now to the man right in front of you. “You on the other hand Luke, you are still doing great with the band. Winning more awards and having more top-selling albums all in 10 years? I bet you’ve been to more destinations across this world.”

“I guess you can say that.” He shrugged, his social skills weakening and sending an amused smile.

“I’m just glad we got to where we wanted to be.” You sent him back a half-smile, remaining optimistic. But for real, let’s get back to business. “Alright then, let’s focus on the big elephant in the room. What are we going to do with the girls?”

“Well, since they met, we shouldn’t keep them apart.” Luke insists. “Maybe I can let them stay in Sydney for a year, then the next to you.”

“Luke, when they do, they’ll be transferring schools yearly, which is a hassle.” You countered, your tone of voice sounding serious.

“Then maybe staying with me half a year then to you?”

At this point, you wanted to face palm yourself. “This is the same with the changing of schools, only they will be doing it twice a year.” Luke was gutted at his lack of common sense, his brain running out of ideas. “Fuck this is hard, do you think you can move or stay in Sydney a bit longer than a week, maybe so Stella can embrace her Australian roots.”

“Luke, remember than both Rebecca and Stella have (Y/Nat) roots too, and my entire life is here in LA! Don’t you have a house here you can move in here?” You complained, but not loud enough to begin any serious argument.Although Luke felt your stress, he chose to not to be petty but to be honest. “Family life for me will always be in Sydney. Looks like this is harder than I thought it would be.”

As you both were silent, calming down so you wouldn’t break into an intense argument in public, you were just thinking of other ways to get the family to spend more time, make up for the lost years. Out of nowhere, your mind lit up, like a light bulb as you got an idea. It was a risk, but worth a shot.

“I actually have a premiere of Take Me or Leave Me in Sydney, and I leave the day after your show in the Forum, like I have a plane and all. I don’t know how long you’re here for, but I’m wondering if you wanna come. More family time yeah?” You were 50/50 on this, hoping he says yes but also no because this was too much for such little time. Although you don’t care what media says, how will they react to it will be grand, and for sure, Timmy would like it.

Luke was surprised by such a big invite, but at the mention of family time, you were right. He just didn’t know how Sierra will respond to it. “I-I’d like that. I’m a bit homesick actually and planning to go home the day after.”

Both of you remained quiet for a moment, just observing each other’s facial expressions and feature, and it didn’t feel awkward at all. Taking in all the changes from your increasing ages reminded you of how much you’ve missed out on each other, but it was for the best. “Honestly, from the mini argument a while ago, I remember why we came up the solution we have right now.” Luke started off.

Yet you thought otherwise. “Really? I thought it was because we didn’t ever have to see or encounter each other again.”

Luke’s breathing halted for a second, hands down on the table and much more fixated on you because he had a different mentality. “I’m not a part of that “we”, (Y/N).”

“Actually, the part is pretty blurry to me now after all this time.” You say, eager to hear what his side is as compared to yours as you sipped on your milkshake like tea. “Do you still remember finalizing that divorce?” He asks, just as curious as you were.

“Crystal clear. As soon as I signed everything, I got all my things and Stella. You were still unsure, still sitting on the dining table, contemplating whether to sign it. It took one glance of me, the unhappy me, before you did it.” Luke was still unsatisfied, his face scrunching up, enlightening for more. “Why was it so easy for you to sign the papers? Were you ever happy with me?”

“Luke, you’ve been so special to me, and yes, best years of my life. But we begin having petty fights again, the ones we conquered when we dated, and had tempers we couldn’t tone down. We also worked so much, barely seeing each other. Also when these different issues resurfaced, especially those between you and Arzaylea erupted, that broke me. A lot. It was just too toxic.”

“You knew it wasn’t true.” He defended.

“Was it really though?”

“I thought you trusted me.” His voice cracked, pain increasing.

“And I thought you loved me, maybe even going against the divorce.” You riskily state, not holding back.

“But your happiness is important to me, and if not having me in your life is the solution, so be it.”

“My happiness might have resparked if you fought for what we had much more, maybe run after me.”

“I didn’t know you wanted me to.”

You tried not to get too emotional as all this angst was expressed through this intimate venue. Shrugging them away, you give some last words to finalize this closure so no one more hurt gets spread. “Well, that doesn’t really matter now. It’s been 10 years and we’re in happy relationships. I didn’t want to hold you back, like remember when you told me that I did. And Luke, your happiness matters to me just as much.”

In hopes of modifying the mood, you rose your milkshake glass, your gaze shifting to his blue eyes, which you’ve missed despite everything. You’ve been trying to ignore it, but they gave you hope, hope for a much better future. “To our daughters, to our own happiness.”

“To our daughters, to our own happiness.” He raises his glass, repeating your words before clinking them together.

“Oh this song!” You jammed along to Day 1 by Honne in his car, bopping your head back and forth in enjoyment, not to mention that you haven’t heard this song in a while too. Initially, you were going to book an Uber ride back, but Luke insisted to take you home so you can save money and energy. Discreetly, he wanted to bond with you more, trying to mend your great friendship. You didn’t budge a bit and accepted the offer, opening up more.

Luke smiles at your enjoyment while maintaining his view on the road. This was a moment you haven’t had in so long, and just valued every second of it. Lying against the reclining chair, you were interested with the playlist it comes from, especially since Luke loves making playlists. “What playlist is this?” You swiped open his phone and read the title out loud, which blew you off your tracks.

Reminders of You.

“That’s our playlist, Luke.”

“I could never delete it.” Luke didn’t hold back from getting his phone away from your touch, almost as if he wanted you to see it. To bring back the old days. Finally, this ride reached a halt after another song, arriving on your driveway and Luke opening the car door for you. Walking outside to your front door, you both stood there momentarily, thinking of other words to say out of thankfulness.

“Thank you for the ride home, Luke.”

“It’s my pleasure, (Y/N). It’s a start, you know?”

“I know, it’s about time.” You leaned over a hug, which he returned without hesitation. It felt genuine and refreshing, something you didn’t expect would ever happen. As it reached its end, you felt a strong urge to leave him a peck at the cheek. Doing that felt habitual from your past years together, but you stopped yourself just as soon you leaned forward again. Luke saw it, about to do the gesture too, but also much to his conscience, jerked back. “It’s wrong.”

“I-I’ll see you in a few days, (Y/N).” He stammered, fumbling with his car keys and wallet.

“See you then, Luke.”

With that, he walked off your front door and to his car. Giving you a final wave, he drove off your driveway and exiting the suburbs. As for you, going inside your house got you feeling much more different like you were refreshed from a burden. But also it was draining, when you’ve spoke your heart out, giving him a piece of your mind that you’ve never said to anyone after you divorced.

Much to your luck, the twins were out with Gina and Felicia today, so you would be seeing them much later. When they found out about your mini rendezvous, they were giving you the same smirks as last night, but yet again, it’s all business. Stepping inside your bedroom, shaking your flats off, you jumped on the bed, taking in the comfort of your soft mattress and closing your eyes to doze in a nap. But that comfort was replaced by the discomfort of your skinny jeans tightening from some sweat you gained from the diner, not to mention the smell of grease too.

Getting up and droopily making your way to your walk in closet, you browsed through every sweater you see and still not feel satisfied. They were redundantly worn, you thought. Due to that, you were just ready to settle for a random t-shirt, but the last thing you browsed through wasn’t something you expected. Or rather seen in so long because it’s so far out on the end.

A 5SOS3 sweatshirt.

How was that there? Did you not give it back or keep it in the attic? Oh shit, the attic.

As much as you wouldn’t want to admit, you still have things of Luke that you never returned. Grabbing the item from its hanger, you fully stretched it to see it clearly, the minimalism of the black fabric with the patches of 3 I’s in green and the 5sos label in red on the upper right.

“Wear this instead.” One thought lingered in your head. Weirdly, that wasn’t up for debate. Changing from your jeans and top into this with some shorts, it felt relaxing and huge on you, almost like a night dress to you. You even got a swift of some strong cologne that stuck in the fabric, bringing back much nostalgia. Yet, this one hit harder than the diner.

As much as you want to shrug it off, you had to face it so you can move forward. You were reluctant at first, but it then became your next move. Mincing your way to the third floor where the attic is, you flipped the switch button to turn on the lights, searching through numerous, dusty boxes until your slippers-covered feet hit on a certain box labeled “Luke”.

Predictable and cliché, self.

Kneeling, you opened the flaps of the box, then blowing the dust off some contents inside. You gasped a bit, seeing all these photo albums, which you knew were filled with polaroid shots, his different tops which you loved that you didn’t want give back especially back in the early years post-divorce, when you were not ready to let go and much more. You unfolded some, like his red flannel, black and white stripes buttoned, and his black Pink Floyd shirt. Personally, the latter was your favorite, especially from what you recall, he lent you that post-birthday sex. Great times.

Refolding them, you plan on returning them since these items bring up the past, which you want to move on from. The rest of the contents continued to bring sentimentality, like the funny moments captured, different versions of the band’s albums, the little knick knacks he would give you and your personal favorite, his Sike sweater.

“Oh, those were the days.” You mumbled before getting the box and returning to your bedroom.

103 notes · View notes

daydadahlias · 2 years

Note

If 5SOS were dogs, what would they look like and how would they interact?

Anon, I cannot express how excited I am that you asked this question. Because, let me tell you, I have the answers. I now present to you dogsos:

Luke Hemmings as an Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are some of the most beautiful dogs out there. I mean, look at those pretty blue eyes. I think that if Luke were a dog, he would definitely be an Australian Shepherd not only because of their beauty but because of their sweet, cuddly, playful personalities. They’re fantastic family dogs and, of course, Luke would be the sort of dog who lives with a smaller family, and definitely knows his way around kids. Granted, he’s a bit clumsy around them because he always wants to play and doesn’t really understand how. I assume he’s knocked over a toddler on his way to his dog bowl before. He probably has one or two toys that he refuses to destroy; most likely a stuffy of some kind (I’m picturing a pig) that he’ll bring to people to greet them when they enter the house. He also always fetches the newspaper and is very very scared of cats. He has his begging face down and often earns himself pieces of steak or chicken because his family loves him and can’t say no to those pretty blue puppy dog eyes.

Michael Clifford as a Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgi was immediately what came to my mind when I thought of Michael. Corgi’s are loving and the perfect size to scoop up and cradle. Michael is definitely a lap dog, happy to sit on his owner while they watch TV or play video-games. I picture him living with someone single so he gets especially spoiled by them. He 100% tears up every single toy he’s given because he’s a little shit and then when he makes a mess, he makes sad eyes so he doesn’t get yelled at. He also stands on the back of the couch with his paws on the window and screeches at the mailman. He gets nervous around other dogs and is wary of people at first but he warms up pretty easily once offered a treat (if his kibble is changed, he barfs). His owner has an Instagram page dedicated to him and he tells the other guys at the park that he’s a celebrity (because he really thinks he is).

Calum Hood as a Rottweiler

I definitely consider Calum to be a guard-dog. He’s extremely cuddly with his owners (as in, he is all up in their space all the time and definitely slobbers on people because he’s a kisser) but if someone poses any kind of threat to his people, he can be very intimidating. He’s knows lots of tricks but is the kind of dog who likes to only do them in specific circumstances; he’s a diva. I also imagine him living with a couple who had a new baby that he likes to sniff. I think he’s the kind of dog that would stand guard over a crib and get antsy when the baby cries. But he loves the baby because it drops scraps on the floor and he eats them so fast that his people don’t have a chance to clean them up. He for sure chases squirrels and has on more than one occasion made his owner fall down because he pulled at the leash too hard trying to get at one. He also likes to dig holes in the backyard. He spends a lot of time outside and definitely likes water! His family takes him to the lake every now and again.

Ashton Irwin as a Brown Newfoundland

Ashton is without a shadow of a doubt a Newfoundland. They’re big, they’re fluffy, they’re absolute sweethearts and they are mother nature’s nannies. Because of their size, they can come off as intimidating but in reality they wouldn’t hurt a fly. Ashton definitely lives with a large family who has tons of kids for him to protect and be snuggled by. They pull on his ears sometimes but he really doesn’t mind it; he knows it’s their way of showing love. He makes sure to be very gentle with them. He never licks but he’s definitely a nuzzler; he likes to push his nose into people’s hands or against their cheeks to get attention. He’s a talkative dog - always has something to say - but never loud. He doesn’t bark (because he doesn’t want to scare the kids) but he will grumble sometimes or yip so people will listen to him. Sometimes he has big news; like, for instance, there’s someone at the door. The family probably has a toddler that likes to ride around on his back when they go to the park. There are lots of rooms in his owners’ house and he cycles to the different bedrooms throughout the night to check up on everyone and usually falls asleep at the foot of someone’s bed.

As for their interactions together, the boys all meet up at the dog park on Saturdays to discuss the happenings of their week. Ashton isn’t a very playful dog but Calum likes to nip at his ears to annoy him and sometimes Ashton will yip at him or chew on him. As for Michael and Luke, those two are all over each other. They chase tennis balls together (which Luke always gets to first because Michael is cursed with stubby little legs and can’t run very fast). Luke likes to push Michael over with his snout (in the hopes that Michael will get stuck on his back and won’t be able to roll back over) and Michael will bark at him profusely when he does. (Michael is a screamer and has to be told off frequently by his owner). Usually when Michael gets flipped over, Calum goes over to join the fun and try to bite his stomach or chew on his paws. Ashton likes to watch them all roll around together but he isn’t a big fan of joining in. He’s too old for that sort of puppy-play. Luke probably whines when they push him into muddy places at the park because he goes to the groomers very often and doesn’t like his fur being dirty. Often times, they wear each other out and will rest by finding a shady spot and flopping down together. Calum and Luke usually cuddle up and Michael wedges his tiny body between them. Ashton likes to lay off the side until Calum whines at him and then he’ll come join them. Their owners all take very cute photos of them (especially Michael’s owner who posts all the photos on his official Instagram @Mike_the_Rollie-Pollie_Dog)

Thank you for letting me ramble abt dogsos <3

#dogsos #pigeon #i believe all of this to be fact #anon i love u #i love personification so much #and i love !!!!! guessing what dogs people would be !!!!#it used to be something i did in lower school lmfao #at the end of the year #i printed out 'Dog certificates' for all my friends #where i told them what dog breed they were and why #not to self promo but if anyone wants to know what dog breed they'd be #i would be so happy to bullshit an answer for you #<3 #thank you thank you thank you this was sooo fun !!!

90 notes · View notes

suchalonelysunflower · 4 years

Text

“One of the Boys” (M.C)

Pairings: Michael Clifford X Reader

Summary: College!AU ~ Friends to Lovers. You and Michael are best friends since forever, that’s why you feel the need to hide your crush on him. But when he makes a hurtful comment, you are determined to prove him wrong. Could that be enough to make him love you?

Warnings: The reader uses she/her pronouns, I’m sorry if I make anyone uncomfortable with that, it was not my intention. Angst with fluffy parts. Language, low self esteem issues, cheating (a little bit, it depends on how you view it) one sexual reference and some grammar and syntax errors (English it’s not my first language, I’m sorry)

Word Count: 5.5K

Author’s Note: My first Michael Fic! I waited so long and it’s finally here ✨ This is slyghtly based on a personal experience (mine didn’t have this ending) I hope you like it! Feedback, reblogs and comments are always welcomed, I love to hear from you guys 💕 You can read my other works HERE 🦋

You had to admit it, you weren’t exactly a very ‘feminine’ girl. But that the hell was wrong with that? Yes, you preferred leggings and big hoodies over skirts and tight dresses. Yes, you skateboarded everyday to school and hanged out with boys all the time, drinking beers instead of fancy little cocktails. Yes, you never really cared about boy bands or artists like Justin Bieber or Drake. And yes, you would rather die than have high heels on for more than 2 hours straight. But that’s just who you are, how you’ve always been. His comment shouldn’t have hurt that much, but why are you crying about it?

You have been roomates with Michael since you two started college. You always joked about how you were going to live together someday and have a fridge full of junk food and soda. Well, now you do (except from the junk food part, that proved to be an awful experience)

To be honest, you didn’t have that many friends besides him and your other four knuckleheads you know and love from your early school days. Luke was the youngest of all of you, and maybe that’s why everybody thought he was the innocent one (even though he was the mastermind of almost every prank you ever pulled) Calum was the shy one, as people would put it, but just get to know him a little bit and you wouldn’t be able to shut him up. Ashton is supposedly the mature one, but his quick-witted mind and his inability of staying put in a place gives him the same amount of energy as a five year old. And then there was Michael, your best friend, there isn’t a time in your life where Michael wasn’t by your side, weather it was for pulling a prank on someone, skipping school or just playing video games in his basement, he was always there. So moving in together was a no brainer.

The friendship consisted on having the same level of confidence as an old married couple, trusting each other with everything, nothing being off limits, well, except for one thing…

You and Michael were friends and nothing more. That was clear for both of you. For years you both ignored the teasing and assumptions of you guys being a couple. Just the idea of it seeming so absurd to even imagine. But there’s a fine line between love and friendship.

Over the last few years, you began to think that the idea of being Michael’s girlfriend didn’t sound so bad after all. It was impossible to pin the pivotal point of that thought, but somehow somewhere along the road, you started to feel more flustered every time he leaned into a hug, felt butterflies in your stomach with each look he speared your way or how he said your name with such a caring tone. You found yourself thinking of him more often than not, especially on how his arms would look around you waist, how it will feel to be loved by him, to kiss him…

But you couldn’t think like that, not about your best friend. So it’s better to keep it hidden in the deepest part of your soul, praying to whoever’s above that it will go away soon, but when does that ever work?

Maybe that’s why his comment hurt so bad.

It was a lazy Monday, you didn’t have to work today and that meant you could spend your afternoon beating Michael’s ass in video games. But you couldn’t concentrate with your thoughts wandering over the man who owns your heart. It was the third time you let him win in Mario Kart when he caught on your mood.

“You really suck today, huh?” Michael asked as he watches Mario celebrate yet another victory.

“Or maybe you’re finally getting good” You replied, resting your head lazily in one hand, not taking your eyes from the screen.

Michael furrowed his brows, worrying as he heard a light sigh come out of your lips “Hey, are you okay?” He asked, but you don’t seem to hear him, so he accommodates himself on the couch in order to look at you properly and puts a hand on your leg, just right above the knee “Y/N?”

“Huh?” You say, finally lifting your gaze in order to meet his and oh, how you wish you didn’t. Lost in the sea of those green eyes that consumed every thought of your mind, you felt yourself blushing under him and trying very hard not to think on his hand touching your thigh “What? No, yeah. I’m fine.”

“Liar. You let me win, that never happens. Tell me, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong”

“Y/N,”

“Nothing’s wrong, Michael. I swear”

His eyes scanned you, knowing damn well something was up.

“Well,” He said, patting your leg, softly “If you’re not gonna tell me… Then I will make you”

Before you could even comprehend what he meant by that, he was already leaning over your figure with a devilish grin as his hands traveled to your sides and started tickling you mercilessly.

Tears formed in the corner of your eyes as you couldn’t contain the laughter that came over you. Begging him to stop, you tried to escape his grip, but it wasn’t the first time this had happened and you know this is a fight you can’t. Michael joined in laughter as he came closer to you, pinning you under him on the sofa.

But suddenly, his movements stop as he becomes very aware of the position you’re in. You give one last laugh before turning to face him, only to find him already staring at you. You shudder under his gaze as you realize the way his legs are intertwined with yours, wondering if it’s his cellphone on the pocket of his shorts or something else is brushing up against your lower body.

Michael’s eyes never leave yours as your breath becomes even. And he couldn’t help but notice the way that your lips parted slightly, almost inviting him for a taste.

“Hey, dude, sorry to bother you but.. Oh shit, you’re fucking on the couch?” A voice came through the door, making you push Michael onto the floor before getting caught in that position. Raising your head over the sofa, you were met by Ashton and Luke’s grin disappearing from their faces as your face came to view “Oh, it’s just Y/N. WAIT, Were you fucking Y/N?!”

Rolling your eyes and giving them the middle finger, you stand up from the couch, regretting ever giving them a key in the first place, and went straight to the bathroom, trying to hide the red of your cheeks.

But just before you could close the door, you heard Michael say “What are you talking about? It Y/N! She’s practically one of the boys!”

He didn’t mean to hurt you. He had good intentions with that comment, of course he did. But you couldn’t stop overthinking it, crying at the thought of you being so unattractive in his eyes.

“So he wants a girly girl?” You thought, already planning a strategy “I’ll show him, then”

That’s how it started. You began to wear the dresses that were long forgotten on your wardrobe, you started using makeup and styling your hair in something other than a messy bun.

It was confusing at first and not at all what you were used to, but there was a new energy surrounding you, a confident one. You were going to show Michael that you could be feminine, maybe that way he’ll notice you in a ‘more than just a friend’ kinda way.

The first time the boys saw you with your new look they were all sharing breakfast in your kitchen. With your apartment being closer to campus they might as well move in.

“Good morning, guys” You said cheerfully, not looking at anyone in particular.

They all stared at you, looking at you up and down. And just before you could reach the cereal box, the questions started coming.

“What the hell is going on?”

“Y/N why are you dressed like a girl? IS THAT MAKE UP?”

“Do you have a date? It’s 8 am on a Tuesday! Who are they? Vampires?”

“Who are you and what did you do to our Y/N?”

“Is the simulation broken?”

“Shhh” You said, raising the palm of your hand as you poured cereal in a bowl “It’s too damn early for any of you to do that much noise and I haven’t had my coffee yet” As in que, Ashton passed you your usual mug “Thank you, and to answer some of your inquiries. 1) Nothing’s going on, Calum. 2) I happen to be a girl, Luke. Thank you for noticing. 3) I do not have a date, nor I should use that as an excuse to put on some nice clothes. I just,, felt like it” You took a long sip from the hot beverage “The simulation broke down a long time ago and I’m still me. I’m just wearing different clothes, that’s all. Right, Mikey?”

Michael choked with his toast, coughing as he tried to gain some composure “Yeah, you look… great” He said with a shy smile, and he was right. The others joined in with the compliments, hyping and teasing you about how he will have to be more protective of you because you will sure bring home some hot dates looking like that.

It’s been a couple of weeks since that morning and everyday Michael complimented you. You’d be lying if you say that every word he says doesn’t fill your heart with butterflies. Maybe there’s a possibility that he feels the same way.

It was a pretty uneventful evening in the little coffee shop where you worked. You didn’t have many clients today, so the dim lights and the sweet voice of Hozier that blasted through the speakers allowed you to daydream. Michael’s face popped out in your mind, smiling as you remembered the way that he looked at you this morning. Finally proving that you were more than just “One of the boys”

You were so caught up in your thoughts that you didn’t hear the bell chime when the door opened, only waking up when you saw those same eyes that had you smiling just a minute ago standing in front of you, staring at you as well.

“Hey Y/N! How’s it going?” He asked, smiling at you.

“Nothing much” You shrug “Just the same amount of pain and tiredness of the average college experience” Michael rolled his eyes at your sarcasm. That’s when a giggle caught your attention.

The most beautiful woman you ever laid your eyes on was standing next to Michael. She had the bluest eyes you’ve ever seen and her wavy hair complemented her face like an angel. She sure didn’t seem real, how did you not notice her when she entered? Were you really that busy focusing on Michael?

“I can totally relate to that” The girl said with a smile, god even her smile was perfect.

“Y/N, this is Veronica. Veronica, Y/N” Michael introduced.

You smiled politely at her and she did the same “Oh, the famous Y/N! I heard a lot about you, I can’t wait to get to know you better”

Um, what? Michael has been talking about you? To her? You couldn’t tell if it was good or a bad sign.

“Really? Well, don’t believe anything he says. Unless they are good things, then he’s right”

“Okay! Thank you, Y/N” He interrupted, mocking annoyance “I’ll take my usual please, darling. And she will have…”

“Just a mocha, please”

You nodded “Coming right up” You smiled at her as she walked to a table. Michael leaned over the counter and whispered.

“Could you do one of those drawing people do in the coffee? She will love that. Thanks.” He gave you a kiss on the cheek and walked away, sitting close to Veronica in one of the booths just before he could notice the way your cheeks turned to a much brighter red.

An hour passes. Then two. Then two and a half. And you were standing there, acting as a witness of their chemistry. You cursed yourself as your eyes drifted towards them, watching them laugh and talk about life. It was clear that Michael was enchanted by her, moving closer and closer every time, and you could tell the feeling was mutual as she laid her delicate hand on his.

Of course Michael would go for the pretty girls. Veronica was gorgeous, you couldn’t pinpoint a single defect on that girl, not even with a magnifying glass and you hated that. You hated the fact that he brought her here, you hated the fact that you have to work while his love story unfolds like a Taylor Swift song, you hated that it you weren’t the one sitting next to him, talking about dreams and how everything just collides perfectly within the universe. But that’s not your story.

“Earth calling Y/N?” A voice calls in front of you “Hello?”

You blink a few times and stare at the tall blond man waving his hand in front of your face “Sorry, Luke. Didn’t see you there” You excuse yourself “What can I get for you?”

“The usual, but this time with at least four more shots of espresso. I have to put an all nighter again cause I have that stupid presentation and you are not listening to me again”

“Sorry, what? Four shots of espresso, yeah.” Your gaze averted his “Anything else?”

“Okay, what’s going on?” Luke followed where your eyes led and soon he was, too, staring at the reason of your distraction “Oh”

Out of the four of them, Luke was the only one who knew about your feelings for Michael. He was always very supportive and didn’t pressure you into confessing right away, knowing it must be hard for you. So he can’t imagine what is going on inside your head right now, watching the man you love on a date.

“He didn’t tell me he had a date” You told him.

“He mentioned this morning” Luke added “Said he met her at one of his classes and that she seemed cool. So he asked her out. He never told us he would bring her here “You clenched your jaw, trying to keep the tears at bay. Luke noticed that “I’m sorry, love. I thought he told you about it”

“She is gorgeous, Luke”

“She’s not you, though” You scoffed.

“Exactly”

“Y/N…”

“I’m fine,” You lied “Really, I’m okay. It was a silly crush anyway. And plus, look how happy he looks”

And it was true. Michael did look very happy chatting and flirting with Veronica. His smile reaching his eyes as she spoke and laugh at all his jokes. He truly must like her, and you… Well, some people are just meant to be the side character of another person’s story.

Luke let out a sigh, knowing well enough to assume you are just going to bury your feelings like you always do “He will soon realize what he’s missing”

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

Well, six months passed and he still hasn’t realized. It’s been six month since that fateful evening where you got your heart broken by the man you love. It’s been six months since Veronica has been a constant part of your daily life, sleeping over, joining on movie nights and replaced your spot next to your best friend. It’s been six months of dressing more ‘girly’, wearing make-up and doing your nails, all of it trying to call Michael’s attention, to make you look more like Veronica, more like someone you are not. And all of that for what? You still ended up crying yourself to sleep almost every night.

Luke has been there for you all this time, letting you crash in his place whenever she came over and trying to distract you from the heartache by making jokes or goofing around, sometimes even letting you stay the night just to talk or cry or whatever you needed.

Tonight, however, it was a special night. Michael texted you saying that he finally found the movie you were dying to see for years! It was a special straight to dvd movie with Betty White that you remember it being your favorite growing up but you could never find it anywhere. And to say that you were ecstatic when Michael suggested a movie night for the two of you, would be an understatement.

You got the popcorn ready, ordered some pizzas and the ice cream was in the freezer. It was the first time in months that you would have time alone with Michael and, honestly, you missed him like crazy. Yes, you know he lives there, but it’s been a while since you guys actually talked or shared a good laugh together. Putting your feelings towards him aside, you just missed your best friend.

Suddenly, the bell rang. It wasn’t uncommon for Michael to forget his keys, so you weren’t really surprised.

“How many times do I have to tell you that we bought you that keychain for a reason and-“ But it wasn’t Michael standing at the door “Veronica.. I thought you were Michael”

The girl smiled, (really, not even a chip tooth?) “Yeah, he told me he’ll be a little late and that I should just go ahead” She said as she made her way into the apartment.

“Oh?”

“Yeah, I love movie night!”

He invited her. It was a moment for the two of you and he invited her.

You couldn’t be mad, could you? She’s his girlfriend, after all. She could be here and he had every right to invite her, but… But it still hurt. You thought you’d be spending the evening with your best friend, he said you would. It was a special movie for the both of you, why invite her?

“Can I be honest with you, Y/N?” Veronica said, pulling you away from your mind.

“Uh, sure”

“I have to admit, I was really intimidated by you”

“By me? Why?”

“Well, when Michael talked about you I always thought I had to compete for his attention. It was always Y/N this, Y/N that… He assured me that you were just friends, but I didn’t believe him until I met you. I love that he has a friend like you. You really mean a lot to him so, thank you”

You nodded and muttered a “no problem”

She was right, you were just a friend of Michael’s. Why did you ever think you could be more? Especially with someone like her in his life? It was foolish, it was crazy. He would never look at you the same so, why keep trying?

“So, what are we watching?”

“Oh, um… I don’t know. I’m not staying” You said, hiding the pain in your voice.

“But Michael told me-“

“I’m spending the night at Luke’s today. I totally forgot”

You rushed out of the living room and went straight to your room, letting the tears fall as you started packing for a few days. You needed to get away as soon as possible. You couldn’t handle staying here at the moment, it hurt too much.

Just as you were packing the last pieces of clothing, you heard Michael opening the front door. And surely, a few moments later he was pushing yours open.

“What do you mean you’re not staying tonight?” He barged in.

Your back was facing him, so you couldn’t see him, you didn’t want to see him, but he sounded hurt. Quickly, you wiped your tears with the back of the hand and tried to muttered something close to an unbothered tone.

“I’m going to Luke’s”

“You always go to Luke’s, are you two a thing or something? Because you seem to live there more than here”

You let out a small laugh, was he really that dense?

“There’s nothing going on between me and Luke-“

“Then why are you always in his place?”

“It’s none of your business”

“Well, Y/N it is. It is because I wanted you to spend the night because we rarely see each other anymore and now you’re ditching me again!”

He raised his voice a bit, clearly frustrated and confused. That alone made your anger take the best of you.

“Oh please, as if you really want me here”

Michael frowned “What does that suppose to mean?”

“Why did you invite her?”

“Veronica? She’s my girlfriend, I though-“

“I know that she’s your girlfriend, I get it. It’s just-“ You took a deep breath, trying not to cry or scream or both “It’s just that tonight was special, and I wanted to share that with my best friend. Only with my best friend. But I feel like everytime we try to do something together she’s always there and-“

“You don’t like her?”

“What? No, that’s the worst part. I actually think she’s great” You turned around and closed your bag, ready to leave “Michael I’m not going start a fight, I’m going to stay with Luke for a while. Don’t wait up”

You made your way out of the room, but before you could reach the door Michael’s hand grabbed you by the arm, making you stop.

“Michael” You warned “Let me go”

“No, wait. What do you mean with ‘that’s the worst part’?”

“I’m not having this conversation right now.”

“Yes, you are” Michael made you turn around. You were now looking at him in the eyes, he seemed hurt but you,, oh, you were in pain “Y/N, what is going on? You’ve been avoiding me lately, you’re not staying home, you don’t talk to me anymore, you’re dressing differently and sneaking out everytime I’m here. Is it because of Veronica?” You shook your head, slightly “Then what is it? Why are you pulling away from me?”

“Because it’s too damn hard!” You say looking away from him, unable to contain the tears any longer.

Michael’s eyes winded at your answer. His lips parted in surprise at your sudden outburst, wanting nothing more than to hold you but knowing you won’t let him.

“What?”

“You don’t get it, do you? No, you never did” You cry silent tears as your voice comes barely above a whisper “I can’t stay here because it hurts. Everytime I’m here she’s here too, like a reminder of everything I’m not. And I’ve tried-“ you choke “I tried to look more pretty, to be more ‘girly’ and feminine, losing myself every day. Hoping that maybe you’ll notice”

“Notice what?” Michael said softly.

You let out a breath.

“That I’m in love with you, you idiot”

Michael was taken aback by your answer, but he still wasn’t letting go of your arm. You love him? That’s what’s this all about?

“But I know you don’t feel the same. You never did and you never will. After all, I’m just Y/N. Just ‘one of the boys’ am I not?” He didn’t respond “It’s okay, I came to terms with that, I wouldn’t expect you to say something anyways” You released yourself from his grip and grabbed the last bag that laid on your bed “I’ll stay with Luke tonight and I’ll pick up my stuff in a few days”

Michael shook his head, as if he just realized what you just said “Wait, you’re moving?”

“What do you want me to do, Michael? Stay here? Pretend that things will be the same after this?! Go and have a movie night with your girlfriend and say that everything’s okay when I’m tearing myself apart in front of you?” You ask out of anger “I can’t do that, Michael. I need time”

“Y/N-“

“Why do you care anyways? I’m not a main character in your life. I’m not the type of girl you would fall for, or that you would consider feminine enough. I’m not pretty enough or funny enough and I’m tired of that. I’m tired of being an afterthought”

You turned around, already reaching for the doorknob when Michael’s hand wrapped around your waist, twisting you so your back was pressed against the door and your eyes were on him.

“Y/N, you were never an afterthought” He breathed close to you.

“Michael, what are yo-“

“Stay, please” But before you could say anything else, you felt his lips on yours.

The kiss was everything you dreamed it would be. Fast, rough and passionate. His hands traveled down your spine as he deepened the kiss, getting more needy by the second. Your hands flew to his neck, bringing him even closer, wanting to feel every part of him. You wanted to let yourself go, to fill these long needed desire. But you couldn’t forget about the girl waiting in the living room.

With all the strength you could manage, you pushed Michael away from you as the tears came flooding down again.

“What the fuck is your problem?!” You spat at him in anger “You can’t do that to me. You can’t just kiss me and expect to fix everything. Who do you think I am?” You could tell he was trying to say something, but you were not in the mood to listen “I won’t let you do this to me. I won’t let you do this to her. I’m leaving, Michael. Get your shit together”

And with that, you ran through the door and didn’t look back.

A few hours later, you were settled in with Luke in his apartment. When you arrived, you asked him to please not say anything, that you weren’t ready to talk just yet. He just nodded and let you in.

You cried on his shoulders for what it felt like an eternity. Your head was pounding and your voice was hoarse. You’ve never felt so heartbroken before.

“C-can I stay here for a while? Until I find my own place?” You asked him.

“Of course, darling” Luke said, kissing your head “Take all the time you need”

You stayed like that for a while. He comforting you through your silent tears until you fell asleep.

A week passes by and you are not feeling any better. You haven’t been sleeping well and you’re barely eating despite Luke’s pleads. Ashton and Calum showed up one day to check up on you, but you still refused to talk about it. Maybe you were embarrassed, maybe the memory of that kiss was too recent, too painful to talk about. Maybe you just didn’t know how.

One night you fell asleep on the living room, the TV working as the background noise that drowned your thoughts. You were peacefully dreaming for the first time in days when the sound of muffled voices woke you up. You were still laying in the sofa, but Luke was nowhere in sight. That’s until you heard him talk.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea”

“Please, I need to talk to her” the other man pleaded.

Michael was standing at the door. He looked like a complete wreck. His hair was undone and a bit greasy from ruffling it with his fingers way too much, his eyes were bloodshot and glossy, still fighting to contain the tears in front of his friend.

“Look, man. I love you, but she doesn’t need this right now and-“

“Let him in, Luke”

The two tall men turned towards you. You were standing behind the sofa, your eyes never leaving Michael’s. Luke simply nodded and headed to his room, giving you the privacy you needed.

“I’ll be there if you need me” He said to you.

You muttered a small ‘Thank you’ to him before fixing your gaze upon Michael. He was still frozen by the door, unsure on how to say what he has to say.

Letting out a breath, you decided to break the ice “Michael-“

“I broke up with her” He said in one breath.

“You what?!”

“The night you left,,, I-I broke up with her because I couldn’t keep lying to myself anymore”

“What do you mean?”

He hesitantly took a step closer to you, afraid that he was overstepping again.

“All this time, for years, I’ve been avoiding my own feelings. Tucked them away at the farthest corner in my closet, hoping that they’ll fade soon. I couldn’t cope with them, I was too afraid to.

‘“I told myself that I was being foolish, immature and downright stupid for thinking that the girl I love would love me back. How could she? She was beautiful, shared my sense of humor, my interests and she was extremely cool. I told myself that a girl like that could never want me. But, strangely, she did, as a friend. And I was content with that, at least I would have her be part of my life.

‘“So I hid my feelings until I couldn’t see them, but that didn’t mean that I couldn’t feel them. And every day I would remind myself that she was my friend and I was beyond lucky for that. I kept letting myself down on a daily basis, trying to keep the thoughts away, hoping that one day I could believe them. But I never thought of the consequences my actions had towards the girl.

‘“Y/N, when you left I felt like I couldn’t breathe. Like a vital part of me was missing and you took it away with you. And I deserved it, I truly did. Y/N, I was an asshole”

“Michael,”

“No, I was. Hearing you say those things about yourself, like you were broken and needed to be fixed, it broke my heart, darling” His voice broke at the end, fighting helplessly to contain the tears that were burning behind his eyes “I- I never meant for you to think that I didn’t love you for who you were. That you needed to change in order to get me to like you. You shouldn’t change for anyone, love, you are absolutely perfect the way you are. You always have been and always will be.

‘“Y/N, you were never just ‘one of the boys’, you are my best friend, my soulmate and the best thing that has ever happened to me by far. I’ve always known that, but I was just too much of a coward to let it show and I’m sorry.

‘“When you told me you loved me, god. Y/N, I’ve never felt so happy and confused at the same time! I couldn’t fanthom the thought of you loving me, it seemed surreal after so many years of telling myself that it was impossible, almost like a cruel joke. But you did, and I could tell by your eyes that it was true, and I hated myself for that. I hated the fact that I was hurting you instead of loving you like I wanted to. I hated the fact that you felt like you had to leave in order for you to fix what I broke. I hated that I ruined our first kiss by a stupid impulse because you didn’t deserve that. You deserve the world and I was so scared of the fact that I might’ve lost the chance to be able to give it to you.

‘“ I broke up with her the night you left. It wasn’t fair to you, to her or to me to keep denying my feelings any longer. And I know that I don’t deserve it, but I’m standing here to ask you for forgiveness. I’m sorry that I made you feel less than you are. I’m sorry that I broke your heart. I’m sorry that I wasn’t brave enough to tell you this the moment you walked out the door that night. I will keep apologizing for the rest of my life if necessary, Y/N. But I just- I just don’t want to lose you”

You were standing in front of him. Tears rolled down your cheeks as you took in everything he said to you.

He loved you.

He loves you.

And you love him.

Michael was staring at his feet, too afraid to look up and see the disappointment in your face. To scared to lose you and everything you meant to him. Maybe coming here was a mistake, maybe you don’t want to know anything about him anymore. And he deserved that.

“Well,” You finally say, swallowing the lump in your throat “You still owe me that movie night”

His eyes light up as he saw you smiling at him. He returned it by grabbing you by the waist and pulling you closer to him. Leaning so your lips could met again.

Smiling into the kiss, you swore that you will never let go of the other again.

253 notes · View notes

itisannak · 5 years

Text

‘Sweater Weather’ by The Neighborhood (Michael Clifford Fluff)

youtube

Summary: (Y/N) visits Michael in California, and they spend a perfect fall day together. Based on "100 ways to say I love you" Prompt #12: "Take my jacket, it's cold outside." (Request) (Words: 1.3k)

The raindrops hitting on the windows fill the room with a happy beat. I can't help but smile; the sound of rain paired with Michael's arms around my body, make my heart flutter happily. For the first time since the academic year started, I feel content and stress-free, like I have left everything in my dorm before leaving for California. My stomach grumbles, the thought of coffee and my promised pancakes swirling in my mind. I push the comforter off my body, trying to move away from Michael without waking him up. But his groggy whine reveals I failed, so he pulls me back by my waist and presses his body on mine. "Why are you moving?" He asks, planting a kiss on the base of my neck. His lips are warm, his breath hitting my skin and making me feel ticklish. "I wanted to make breakfast. I need warm coffee, it is too cold in Cali..." I protest, reaching my hand down to take his. "There is time for that... I wanna hold you a little more..." He hums, resting his hand on my hip. I turn around, facing him as he smiles sleepily. I lean in, pressing my lips on his protrusive bottom lip before I snuggle onto him a little more. "Your skin is so cold..." Michael comments, rubbing his hand down my back to bring me a little extra warm, adding to the heat radiating from his body. "It's freezing, not my fault..." I reply, nudging my head against his neck. He hums in agreement, fixing the comforter with his free hand. "Just 10 more minutes of snuggles and we will get up and head for breakfast." He assures me, kissing my forehead. "You know I can make us breakfast, right? Pancakes will take like, 10 minutes... And coffee is super easy to make, I'll even teach you." I mock him and he throws me a fake laugh. "Shut your chattering mouth and enjoy cuddle time..." He orders and I hum, feeling his fingertips press on my hip to keep me close.

It's well past the 10 minutes Michael said we would get up for breakfast, and still, his arms are wrapped around my body, lips pecking on forehead drowsily as his warm breath hits my skin, giving me just a little more comfort as the raindrops hit the window. "Babe, I am starving... My stomach is grumbling..." I kvetch, my voice breaking at the end and sounding more like a purr than the stern tone I intended to give off. "Aight... Let's get up." He yawns, trying to get rid of sleepiness while I pull the covers off. "Hey, can you not be so violent this early in the morning?" He asks, stretching his body as I dangle my feet off the bed to slide them in the slippers at the end of it. "It is nearly 12." I rub my eyes, picking up my robe to sleep inside it, battle the cold morning. "Too early..." He chuckles, walking towards me and leaning down and pressing his lips to mine. "But this is the most beautiful morning I have had in a while." He whispers, stroking my cheek before resting his chin on top of my head. "Me too. I hated being away from you..." I mumble, wrapping my arms around his torso, nestling up to his body. "I hated it too, lovebird... Go get ready now, let's go eat up." He whispers, placing one last kiss on my nose.

"I thought that California is warm all year round..." I stare outside the fogged window as Michael drives to the breakfast place. "Thank God it is not..." Michael sighs thankfully. "Yeah, but you didn't warn me about it... And I have only packed light clothes." I pout, making him fake-pout as well. "Well, you are always welcome to swaddle yourself in my hoodies..." He replies, reaching to take my hand in his. "Aren't you scared that I might steal them all?" I ask, tilting my head to the side and smiling at him, watching the twinkle in his eyes grow at the mention. "You deserve them all..." He replies happily, stroking his thumb over the top of my knuckles. He pulls up in a tiny diner, far away from all the hecticness of Los Angeles. The place seems like something out of a movie, with the little neon signs blinking even though it is morning and the contrast is not visible in the daylight. "Take my jacket, it's cold outside." Michael reaches to the backseat, picking up his leather jacket and placing it on my lap, looking at me as he waits for me to put it on; he looks at me lovingly, truly worrying about me being cold. "I will be fine." I mumble but he shakes his head no. "You won't. I'd much rather if you didn't get sick while you are here... Put it on... It will look really good with your outfit..." He places the jacket on my shoulders, tilting my chin up with his fingers and giving me a quick peck.

I moan at the sensation of hot coffee in my mouth, closing my eyes and enjoying the warmth. "Should I be jealous of your mug?" Michael teases, nudging my shoulder. "I don't know... Should ya?" I ask, cocking an eyebrow at him before I place a kiss on his lips with a big smile on my face. "Do you like it here?" He asks, draping his arm over my shoulders. "I love it. It's so quiet..." I reply, leaning to his body and resting my head on his shoulder. "It's even prettier at night... And nothing beats breakfast at night." He states, lowering his hand on my thigh, letting his palm and fingers feel the material of my jeans. "Is it bad that I wish my mornings are always like that?" I ask, exhaling frustrated just at the thought of having to go back in a few days. "No... I have the same wish. And I would give anything to have you here always, literally anything..." He assures me, pressing me more on his body as if he is trying to convince the universe that he is not willing to let me go away. "Just a few more months... I have to be there for just a few more months. And then I will be here... I promise." I place my hand on top of his, planting a kiss on his neck at the end of each sentence. He hums, leaning his head against mine. "Can we not talk about sad stuff right now? What do you want to do today?" He asks, bringing the mug to his lips. "Something Halloweeny. Maybe we could go to a pumpkin patch and pick up pumpkins. I feel like craving today." I clap my hands, already feeling too pumped about the activity.

We walk side by side, Michael's hand resting protectively on my hip. The little farm is filled with people, mostly parents with their babies, who took advantage of the short break of the rain and decided to make the most out of the gloomy day. "You look a little too good in my leather, baby..." Michael mumbles, stepping in front of me and pulling me into a hug, making me smile as I press my face to his chest. "How little?" I ask and he hums. "Scratch that... You look far too good wearing my jacket." He presses his lips on my forehead. "I think that by the time I leave, you will need a new wardrobe... I look good in almost all of your clothes." I giggle and place my hand on his pec. "Well, you look even better naked, so... I think I am going to have you naked in bed, for the rest of your stay..." He plants a kiss on my neck, making me cackle and let out a sigh. "Did I come all this way to be locked up in a house?" I ask, cocking an eyebrow at him. "Nah... Maybe tied down to a bed... We will see." He gives me a cocky smirk before he squeezes my butt, moving to walk on my side.

My Masterlist

82 notes · View notes

lukesick · 7 years

Text

i promise (pt 1/?)

“lukee, please talk to me,” you say flopping your body onto his back. he lets out a small ‘huff’ and continues his game. his tongue pokes out slightly to moisten his lips before he turned his attention from the game. “yes y/n?” he stares right into your eyes. you pout your lip out and give him an innocent look, “take me out for ice cream pleaseee,” you beg him.

he sighs and runs his hands through his hair, “ask ash or something, he is your boyfriend after all.” he shakes his head and turns back to his game. you didn’t know what was bothering him lately and it was eating you alive. “please luke,” you plead one last time as you muster up the cutest voice you can. a small ‘ask ash’ is heard, and you sigh in defeat.

you grab your things and begin to head out, “bye lukey,” you mumble loudly enough for him to hear. he scoffs, “have fun with ashton y/n.” with your head down say manage to tell him, “love ya luke.” while walking out the door you swear you hear him say ‘i love you too beautiful’ but you just shake it off knowing he probably said something dumb.

you text ash quickly telling him you’re heading over. you don’t get a reply, but you assume he’s just doing something so you start to drive over. when you pull up in the driveway you notice another car parked beside ashton’s. opening the door you’re greeted by soft moans and a feminine voice groaning your boyfriend’s name.

with tears in your eyes and yell as loud as you can, “fuck you ashton irwin.” as soon as you slam the door you hear ashton calling your name “y/n baby please can we talk about this?” this only pisses you off even more, “talk about what ashton? the fact that you cheated on me or the fact that you said you loved me and just made a fool out me by doing this!” his face falls and you know there is no turning back when these words fall from your lips, “we’re done.” his face drops in utter humiliation and he stares at you while you drive off. with tears streaming down your face you do the only thing you know to do, go to luke’s.

you knock quickly on his door, moments later a sleepy luke appears at the door. “y/n, oh darling what happened,” he asked pulling you in for a hug, “c’mon let’s go make some tea and calm down, yeah?” all you can do is nod your head softly and wadde quietly behind him. you pull yourself up on the counter of the kitchen and watch luke make the tea. “he cheated,” you whimper with your face to the floor. luke looks at you with tears welling in his eyes, “y/n i-i…” he begins to say when you cut him off, “did i deserve it, where did i go wrong luke?” he walks over to you and engulfs you in a hug, “nothing, you did nothing you are so, so wonderful.” you tilt your head to look at him, he looked so distraught that anyone would hurt you like this.

“luke, do you love me?” you blinked and swallowed slowly when he began to speak. taking a deep breath he let out, “i always wished it was me instead of him. god i love you so much y/n,” he licks his lips softly. you smile and wipe your tears, “i love you too luke,” is all you said before a warm pair of lips fell upon your own. you kiss back with all the passion you could give him. slowly wrapping your arms around his neck. this continued for a few minutes before the two of you pull away slowly.

“everything will get better, i promise,” luke said in a hushed tone, and for some reason you knew it would if you were safe in his arms.

#luke 5sos #luke5sos #lukehemmings #luke hemmings #luke #michael clifford #michaelclifford #michael 5sos #calum 5sos #calumhood #calum hood #ashton 5sos #ashtonirwin #ashton irwin #5 seconds of summer #5sos #imagines #fluffy #aww

23 notes · View notes

ghostofmaxx · 6 years

Text

Attention 5SOS writers!

CAN we please have more aftercare!5sos Bc like I love all the sexy time but I love the caring for after the deed is done.

Especially daddy!ashton that would be hella cute please we ask of you

💖💖💖

33 notes · View notes

clumsyclifford · 4 years

Text

a future of stories, kiss you good mornings

here’s a cute little malum fic in honor of michael’s 25th birthday !! i am sadly not the editing or giffing type and my only real creative outlet is writing so i am forced to show my love for mr clifford by pretending he’s in love with his best friend because you know. that’s how we roll

big shoutout to @blackbutterfliescal and @devilatmydoor for rallying the troops so to speak lol and getting us all to celebrate michael’s birthday you guys are truly both wonderful and everyone in this lil community is so wonderful wow i love you all !!!!! yes i’ve been listening to a very cute love song on a loop for a little bit so maybe i’m being exceedingly sappy but that’s life. anyway enough from me

this is fluffy, fluffy fluff. it MIGHT be the fluffiest fluff i’ve ever written. no tws (i think) just fluff !!! something about malum just brings out all the fluff. if i say fluff one more time i might lose my mind so why don’t we all just dive into the fic okay cool

title from protocol by the vamps (don’t use the song as a guide for the tone of the fic adflkgjfhklmj)

read it here on ao3

Waking up alone threatens to make this birthday pretty bad.

Hopefully it means Calum is making breakfast. Michael would kill for waffles. He blindly sweeps an arm over Calum’s side of the bed, but it’s cold. Michael snuggles deeper into his pillows, keeping his eyes shut for another minute in case he falls back asleep. He’d actually bet anything Calum is making him breakfast right now, because that’s Calum’s go-to birthday move, so Calum will come get him when it’s ready.

Time melts into nothing, and Michael’s not sure if he does drift off again or just float on the edges of consciousness, but after some undetermined stretch a quiet voice whispers, “Mikey.”

“Hm,” Michael grunts.

Calum crawls into bed and presses a kiss to Michael’s cheek (the one not currently flattened against the pillow). “Happy birthday, babe.”

“Would be happier if I was asleep.”

Calum chuckles lightly and wraps Michael up in his arms. His embrace is warm and familiar, and much cozier than the pillows, so Michael burrows deeper into Calum’s chest. “Would it be happier if you had waffles and ice cream for breakfast?”

Michael perks up. “Ice cream?”

“It’s your birthday,” Calum says, a grin in his voice. “Of course we’re having ice cream for breakfast.”

“You’re a terrible influence,” Michael says, tempted by the notion of ice cream for breakfast. “It’s hot.”

Calum laughs outright. “Get up or the waffles will get cold.”

“How’d you know I wanted waffles?” Michael asks, brushing a kiss over Calum’s collarbone before pulling away to look at him. He’s smiling like he knows something Michael doesn’t, and he’s as charmingly adorable as he’s been every day since they met, but Michael feels a little extra in love today. Maybe it has to do with getting older. He’s officially closer to thirty than twenty now. His age can be rounded up. That’s a little bit insane.

“We’ve been together seven years, Michael,” Calum says, rolling his eyes. “You think I don’t know your favorite breakfast food?”

Michael smiles, melty and warm inside. “Love you,” he says.

Calum kisses him. “Love you too. Now get up. Waffles.”

—

Calum is suspiciously happy. Michael points this out through a mouthful of ice cream-soaked waffle, and Calum just cocks his head. The smile doesn’t waver. “What are you talking about?”

“You’re, like, dancing,” Michael says. He swallows his food. “There’s no music and you’re dancing.”

“So you’ve never danced without music?” Calum raises his eyebrows.

“I’m just saying, it’s suspicious,” Michael says, shrugging. He leans forward on his elbow, resting his face on his palm. “Not that I’m complaining.”

“So what do you want to do today?” Calum prompts, still swaying back and forth a bit. Michael wonders if he even realizes he’s doing it; it’s like there’s a song playing that only Calum can hear. Something’s making him light on his feet.

Michael wishes he knew what it was, so he could make it happen every day. Seeing Calum in such high spirits is doing wonders for Michael’s disposition. It’s fun to be in love, Michael muses, knowing that someone else’s mood can be just as instrumental in setting the tone of the day as Michael’s own. If Calum’s energy is anything to go by, today is shaping up to be incredible.

“Nothing,” Michael says honestly. He’s been gazing at Calum for a minute and answers a little late, but Calum has just been letting him. “Just want to relax.”

“I knew you’d say that,” Calum says, smiling airily. Michael makes a noise of protest, but he can’t fight the silly grin.

“If you knew, then why’d you even ask?”

“I had to make sure!”

“Yes, Calum, you know me better than anyone else on the planet,” Michael says wryly. “Are you satisfied?”

Calum’s smile grows. “I got you a birthday present.”

“I should hope you did.”

“It’s a bit non-traditional, though,” Calum continues. “As birthday presents go.”

Like there are traditional birthday presents? Michael wrinkles his nose in confusion. “Okay? Are you going to give it to me?”

Calum hesitates. “Do you want it now, or later?”

“Is this a weird euphemism? Are you just asking if I want to sleep with you?”

“No!” Calum snickers. “No, it’s not. It’s a real thing. I…I think you’ll like it.”

“I’m sure I’ll love it,” Michael promises. “I mean, you knew what I wanted for breakfast and what I wanted to do for my birthday, so I can’t imagine you got me a birthday present I’d hate.”

“Yeah, this one’s a bit of a commitment, though,” Calum says. “Like, the thing is the present, but it’s also not.”

“What about instead of being really cryptic, you just give it to me?” Michael suggests. He has total confidence in Calum. If the present is something Michael doesn’t like, Michael will eat his shirt.

“So you want it now?” Calum says. “Don’t want to finish your waffles first?”

“Well, you’re kind of building the suspense here, love,” Michael says, grinning and shaking his head. “Just give it to me when you want to give it to me.”

“No, I mean. Okay. I have to go and get it.” Calum shifts, then says, “Finish your breakfast and I’ll go get your present and then I’ll give it to you, okay?”

“Okay,” Michael says, amused. Calum sidles past him, dropping a kiss to his temple as he goes, and leaves. Michael chuckles to himself and takes the last few bites of his waffles — which are delicious, of course, fluffy and warm and not too limp or too crunchy. Calum’s only mastered a few culinary arts, but one of them is breakfast. They work well like that; Calum knows how to make Michael’s favorite category of food.

While Calum is retrieving the enigmatic birthday gift, Michael turns his phone over on the tabletop and finally starts reading through the myriad messages previewed on the lock screen. Luke and Ashton had both texted at midnight exactly, so there’s nothing new from them this morning, but basically everyone else Michael has ever met is wishing him a happy birthday on every single social media platform he has. Just then he hears Calum’s footsteps behind him, and he flips his phone facedown on the table again.

He can get to the birthday messages later. He will. But they’re not going anywhere, and Michael wants to spend this time with his boyfriend, his best friend, his favorite person.

Also, he’s dying of curiosity about the birthday present.

“You done?” Calum asks, gliding back into the room with grace. Michael eyes him; he’s hiding something behind his back but it must be small, because Michael can’t see it. Obligingly, he lays his fork and knife across the plate and pushes it away from him.

“I’m done,” he confirms. “Present time?”

Calum rocks back and forth on his feet. “Okay. But you need to be standing for it or else the effect is ruined.”

“The effect of the birthday present?” Michael says drily, but he doesn’t argue, just gets to his feet, mirroring Calum’s stance by linking his hands together behind his back and giving Calum a cheeky smile. “How’s this?”

Calum shuffles backwards a bit until there’s just about one arm’s length between them. “Perfect. You’re perfect.”

He inhales deeply, exhales, and then falls to one knee, holding out in front of him what he’s been concealing behind his back: an engagement ring.

Michael’s hands fly to his mouth.

“Oh,” he breathes into his palms. “Calum.”

“Let me talk first,” Calum says, smiling up at Michael, and then he laughs a bit. “I don’t know if you can tell that I’m really fucking nervous. I’ve tried to be really cool about it, because I can’t see why you’d say no, but still — I’m scared as fuck. But I’m going to let you save your answer until I’m done talking so that even if you say no you still get an ego boost.” Michael laughs shakily. Tears glaze over his eyes, and as he blinks them away one slides down his face.

Calum pulls the ring towards him, still gazing up at Michael. “So…where do I start, Michael Clifford? My best friend of at least ten years, my boyfriend for the last seven, my favorite person to fall asleep next to, the only person I’d ever learn to cook for. I mean, I never really learned, but I would. I will.”

“You don’t have to,” Michael manages, somehow laughing even though he’s definitely also crying.

Calum giggles, and it’s obvious he’s also trying not to cry. “Let me finish, I’m trying to propose!”

“Sorry, sorry!”

“Anyway, I just…I just love you so much, Michael.” When Michael blinks again, a vain attempt to clear his blurring vision, their eyes meet, and Calum’s words have never been more obvious from the expression on his face. “I…before us, I thought that I got it. Like, I thought I knew what it meant to be in love. But —” He shakes his head. “I so, so didn’t. I thought that sometimes love hurt, but with you it never does. Seven years, Michael, and it’s never hurt to be in love with you. You are one of the — no, fuck it. You are the smartest, sweetest, sexiest,” — Michael breaks out with another laugh — “most driven and charismatic person I’ve ever met, and you shine even when you think you don’t, but especially when you do. I swear there’s nothing I love more than to see you onstage. It’s like watching a fireworks display. Fuck, that’s really cliché. Shit, I thought I’d get through this before I started crying.” He wipes his face with the back of his hand, cutting off a stray tear as it slips down his cheek. “That’s probably a good sign I should wrap it up, then. So, uh, Michael Gordon Clifford with the worst middle name in the history of ever, will you marry me?”

“Yes, of course I will,” Michael says breathlessly, holding out a hand to help Calum up. “Of course I’ll marry you, I fucking love you.”

Calum’s smile is so broad it almost makes his eyes disappear completely. “Thank God.” He takes Michael’s hand and staggers to his feet, and Michael throws his arms around Calum, too overwhelmed for words, though he knows he doesn’t need them; Calum’s said it all, and anything he hasn’t said he definitely already knows.

Calum kisses Michael’s neck. “Technically I haven’t even given you the present yet.”

“Calum,” Michael says, leaning away so he can see Calum’s face in its entirety, all the dips and curves and creases and the laugh lines and the deep brown of his eyes and every inch. “You’ve given me the present every day for the last seven years.”

Calum huffs, lips pulled upward, and he draws Michael into a kiss, one that’s doomed from the start for the way neither of them can stop smiling long enough to turn it into anything real.

“That was cheesy, but I just proposed, so I’ll let you have it,” Calum murmurs against Michael’s mouth. He laughs. “Oh, fuck, I love you. Can I give you the ring?”

“Yes, please do.”

Calum fumbles with the ring box until he extracts the ring, then takes Michael’s left hand and slides it on. “Beautiful.”

“It is,” Michael says reverently, gazing at the crystal and then holding it up so he can see Calum at the same time.

“So?” Calum says hopefully, tilting his head. “How would you rate this birthday present?”

Michael does a double-take. He’d completely forgotten his birthday in the excitement. “Ten thousand out of ten,” he says, and kisses Calum sweetly on the lips. “You’re going to have a lot of trouble topping this for my 26th, though.”

Calum just laughs, like he knows what Michael knows: that the promise of spending every birthday for the rest of his life with Calum is a gift Michael will keep receiving every year, and nothing could ever beat that.

21 notes · View notes

mermaidcashton · 4 years

Text

dance in the living room, love with an attitude

authors: claire (@mermaidcashton) & laura (@maluminspace) ship/AU: michael clifford/ashton irwin, roommates AU prompt: “I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I have no idea what I’m doing. I almost never do.” wordcount: 10k+ warnings: swearing, implied & explicit sexual content a/n: • written for @maluminspace & @h0tsos ‘s 5sos fic writers collab (in which we all chose from a list of AU’s and had the above prompt quote to include - check out the masterlist linked to see everyone elses!) • i do not give permission for this (or any of my writing) to be reposted, by anyone, on this or any other website. please don’t do it! • title from ‘only human’ by the jonas brothers dance in the living room, love with an attitude *** The music was probably turned up a little too loud, but it helped to drown out the nerves starting to bubble away in Michael’s tummy. ‘I hope ‘Ashton’ likes MCR’ he thought as he half-heartedly wiped down the kitchen counters with a damp cloth. He wanted the place to look mildly tidier than it usually did for his new flatmate. First impressions counted for a lot, as his mum had told him twice this week already.

Once the splashes of milk from this morning’s mishap with the cereal had been washed away along with the crumbs from last night’s dinner of peanut butter on toast, he stole a quick glance at the clock on the wall over in the living room area. It wasn’t quite midday, which meant he had a little over an hour until his new roommate was due to arrive. That should mean that he just about had enough time to vacuum the whole flat and take a shower. Throwing the dishcloth into the little cleaning basket on the window ledge, Michael focused on screaming the lyrics to ‘Thank you for Venom’ and tried not to focus too much on the anxiety about the rest of the day.

Agreeing to live with someone he’d never met in person probably wasn’t the smartest of ideas. It’s not like Michael had been given much choice, though. His last flatmate had given him less than a week’s notice when she decided to move in with her short-term girlfriend and left Michael with a whole bunch of bills that his meagre paycheck could never stretch far enough to cover. Luckily, his best friend Luke had a work colleague who desperately needed a new place to live since his landlord had slapped him with a very short notice period to move out of his current flat. Luke had offered to give this work friend Michael’s contact details and the following morning, Michael had woken up to a text from a guy called Ashton who was very interested in Michael’s recently vacant spare room.

After explaining the cost of rent and other bills in a few subsequent texts, Michael had received a very grateful reply from Ashton asking if it would be possible to move in that weekend. Of course the blonde had agreed, eager to get the awkward first meeting out of the way as soon as possible.

Determined to get his most hated chore done before he could start collecting his thoughts and mentally preparing for the arrival of his new flatmate, Michael grabbed the portable hoover from the charging port on the tiny bit of the kitchen wall that was not taken up by the counters and cabinets. He was just about to press the ‘ON’ button when a knock at the door put an abrupt halt to his plans.

Michael huffed as he made his way over to the front door. The only people that had the security code for the entrance of the building were his parents and Luke, neither of which were due to visit today. That left only someone who had the wrong flat, or one other possible visitor; his neighbour, Calum. They’d hang out sometimes, whenever their days off matched up. Their shared interest in certain obscure and rare computer games and a mutual love of sushi and beer made for hours of fun without the chore of actually having to leave the building. Michael had definitely made sure to let Calum know that he was expecting his new flatmate to arrive today, though, so he was a little confused as to why his neighbour would be dropping by now.

That feeling only intensified when a glance through the spy hole on his front door revealed that Calum was accompanied by a stranger. He opened the door cautiously, still feeling a little bewildered.

“Hey, mate.” Calum grinned, waving a handful of unopened letters in greeting. “Just found this guy outside with a bunch of boxes. I knew you were expecting your new flatmate today, so I helped bring his stuff up.” His dark brown eyes surveyed Michael with something like confusion from beneath the rim of his seemingly ever-present black bucket hat.

Michael could only imagine that his neighbour was mirroring his own befuddled expression because Ashton wasn’t due to arrive for another hour. He forced himself to look over at the stranger, whilst his mind worked over what was happening.

It appeared that Calum was right in assuming this was Ashton. He was indeed carrying a large cardboard box labelled ‘bedroom’ that would definitely suggest he was moving house. There were also a bunch of smaller boxes piled against the wall beside the front door which supported that assumption.

“Do you guys need any more help?” Calum offered, “I’m free if…”

“Nah, it’s fine.” Michael cut in quickly. “We can take it from here, thanks Cal.” The last thing Michael wanted was more people to see the apartment in its current state.

“No worries.” Calum smiled, “You know where I am if you change your mind.” He turned his attention to his little fluffy dog who had been patiently waiting for his post-walk nap. “C’mon Duke.”

Once Calum and his little fluff ball had wandered off across the hall towards their own apartment, Michael turned his attention back to Ashton. Three things struck him about his new flatmate in very quick succession;

Ashton was incredibly hot. His curly black hair hung loosely around his handsome face, framing his chiselled cheekbones and clean shaven, angular jaw beautifully. His hazel eyes were striking from behind the horn-rimmed glasses perched neatly on his perfectly ski-slope shaped nose.

He looked vaguely familiar. Michael knew that he’d seen Ashton’s face somewhere before but it wouldn’t quite click in his brain. Not that it would be entirely surprising if they’d met before, they did share a close friend after-all. It just seemed a little off that Luke hadn’t reminded Michael of the occasion they'd met at before suggesting they live together.

Despite his silence, Ashton looked somewhat annoyed, possibly bordering on angry. That struck Michael as odd. He had been known to piss people off fairly regularly but seeing as he’d barely even spoken to Ashton, this would be an all time record.

“So you must be Ashton…” Michael smiled, awkwardly tucking a strand of his messy blonde hair behind his ear whilst offering his free hand out for his new flatmate to shake. “I’m Michael, or you can call me Mike if you want. Most of my friends do.” Ashton didn’t accept the offer of a handshake, in fact he made no movement whatsoever. He simply glared at Michael with an increasing level of irritation. “Are you kidding me?”

Michael knew that he was not the prettiest of people. He dressed casually most of the time and due to Ashton’s early appearance, he’d not yet had a chance to shower and make himself a little more presentable. He didn’t think that he quite deserved such a cutting greeting, though. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t expecting you yet, I was just…”

“You don’t even remember me, do you?!” Ashton interrupted, his tone dripping of resentment now. “Fucking unbelievable!” Michael couldn’t remember ever feeling more confused in his life. Ashton hadn’t mentioned that they’d previously met in his text messages so why would he be so angry that Michael hadn’t immediately recognised him now?

The newcomer’s harsh tone had caught Calum’s attention, causing the neighbour to pause in sorting through his mail and stare unashamedly at the scene unfolding across the hall.

“This could only fucking happen to me…” Ashton huffed, adjusting his grip on the box in his arms. “I get turfed out of my flat because my landlord suddenly decides he wants it for his daughter and just when I think I’ve landed on my feet with a new place, my new fucking flatmate turns out to be a one night stand who doesn’t even remember me! Talk about kicking a guy when he’s down!”

Michael barely registered Calum’s audible gasp as realisation crashed around him. Suddenly the memory of the beautiful man that had swept Michael off his feet at a bar a few months back replayed in his head like a movie he’d seen once but hadn’t been able to remember the title of. He’d only known the guy as Ash and he’d assumed it was short for Ashley. Despite the fact that Ash’s hair had been a sexy shade of crimson, styled in a neat quiff and he hadn’t been wearing glasses, it was definitely the same guy that was standing in front of him right now.

“Ash…” the word escaped Michael almost of it’s own volition. “But I thought that was short for… oh my god, this can’t be happening.” He cupped his own face in his hands as the reality of the awkward situation began to settle into the very fibre of his being.

“Wow, you can’t make this shit up.” Calum gasped, an almost delighted smile on his face. “What’re you guys gonna do?”

Despite Calum’s annoying rubbernecking, it gave Michael the perfect excuse to look away from Ashton for a second. “Well I’m gonna throw something at you, if you don’t get lost right now, Calum.” He hissed.

“He’s not the one coming across like a shithead right now.” Ashton scoffed, setting the box in his arms onto the floor. “Being a nosey neighbour still makes you a hell of a better person than the guy that flatters their way into your bed and gives you amazing sex but then gives you a fake number!”

“That’s right.” Calum agreed. “People that do that are the worst. At least have the balls to tell the other person you’re not looking for anything long term before you disappear the next day.”

“Calum, I swear to god…” Michael hissed.

Ashton shook his head angrily. “He’s right, if you never wanted to see me again, you could have just said. I wouldn’t have wasted some of my best moves on you.”

“Oh, what were the moves?” Calum smirked, prying his way further into the conversation.

His neighbour’s blatant disregard for the seriousness of the situation was annoying to say the least. It was also the last thing Michael needed to deal with right now. “Piss off, Calum!”, he snapped.

Duke yapped disapprovingly at Michael, his tiny eyes focused on the blonde man as his human’s smirk grew even further across his face.

“Oh, you can shut up as well!” Michael snapped at the tiny pooch. “Now you’re yelling at a dog.” Ashton rolled his eyes. “Maybe it’s a good thing you blew me off, looks like I had a lucky escape from dating an arsehole!” Michael really couldn’t envisage the situation getting any worse. At this rate he was going to be searching for another roommate instead of enjoying a pleasant lunch with this one, like he’d hoped.

“I didn’t give you a fake number!” Michael protested. “I swear, I’m not like that, and I really liked you! I broke my phone, the same weekend we...met.” He felt his cheeks begin to colour, trying his hardest to ignore Calum’s snort as he focused on Ashton’s disbelieving face.

“It took me two weeks to sort out a new one, I had a little pay as you go in between, I had a different number, and I-you did call, then?” Michael paused his blurted explanations to blurt out a question, instead. He had been wondering every time it was late and he was alone for 6 months whether or not he’d missed a call from the best one night stand of his life.

“Of course I did!” Ashton threw his hands up in exasperation, startling Duke and sending him scuttling back into the still-open doorway of the opposite flat. “I thought we had a connection, we said we wanted to see each other again; that doesn’t happen that often for me! Maybe it does for you…”

“Oh, it definitely doesn’t.” Calum smirked. “The only man who comes to see Michael regularly is the Domino’s delivery guy.”

Before Michael could blow up at him, Calum backed up properly into his flat, resting his hand on his front door. “It’s a shame, actually,” he continued, smiling encouragingly at his neighbour. “Michael is really a great guy. He always has time for me and Duke; whether it’s for beers, a listening ear, or belly rubs.”

He throws a wink to Ashton as he shuts his front door with a click. “I’ll leave you to figure out which one is for me. Welcome to the building!”

Michael knows he needs to gain control of the slightly-stunned silence left in Calum’s wake, fast. He needs to say something apologetic, or charming, or cool. “Do you like fish fingers?” Or that.

Ashton blinked a few times in quick succession, and Michael wanted to throw himself down the stairs.

“Do I like fish fingers?” Ashton repeated, pushing his long black hair back with both hands.

Michael flushed again, at least thankful for the fact that he no longer had an audience for the most embarrassing encounter of his life. “It’s just, I thought we could have lunch, and talk, and I’m not really much of a cook, but I have fish fingers, right, and everyone likes fish finger sandwiches...don’t they…” He trailed off, hoping Luke perhaps had another co-worker who needed immediate accommodation.

Ashton fixed him with the most intense stare he’d ever received in a conversation about freezer food, and Michael tried to match his unrelenting gaze in a way that would make him look less like he wanted to cry. Ashton’s eyes really were beautiful, seeming almost magnified by his glasses. He looked thoughtful and sad now, rather than judgmental and angry, and Michael would take that.

“I do.” Ashton decided on, after what felt like an eternity. He stooped down to pick up his box again, muscles tensing, and Michael’s mind began to wander.

He remembered Ashton’s arms looking just like that as he lifted him up for the last few feet of the journey to the redhead-at-the-time’s bed. Michael could almost feel his fingers digging into the bare skin of his thighs all over again. The memories of slow, wet, considered neck kisses being broken with teeth, and the delicious burn that started low and spread like wildfire as Ashton stretched him out like he was born to do it.

“Michael? After you?” Michael snapped out of his daze, dragging his eyes away from Ashton’s lips where they had landed at some point in his reminiscing. He stepped back so Ashton could enter the flat and set the box down by the sofa. “Yeah, great, come in, make yourself at home, I’ll get the rest of your boxes!” As soon as he was outside in the corridor, Michael let out a breath he hadn’t realised he was holding. ‘Okay, Clifford - you need to snap out of it. Relax and smooth things over so you two can live together.’ He told himself, as sternly as he could manage. ‘We need a roommate more than we need to get laid.’

‘That’s debatable.’ Another voice - which sounded more like Calum than himself - chimed in before Michael shook it off and picked up the stack of cardboard boxes cluttering up the corridor.

‘Okay, you can do this. Damage control. Just be normal. Go in and face this head on. You can do this.’ Michael murmured, running his tongue over his bitten lips as he took his first steps back to where Ashton was waiting.

He hip-checked the front door closed as he re-entered the flat, placing the boxes next to one Ashton had carried in, before straightening up to see Ashton sat on the sofa, looking both nervous and delicious.

“I…” Michael faltered under Ashton’s almost shy gaze, then caught sight of a slice of Ashton’s firm, hairy stomach from where his t-shirt was riding up slightly.

“I just need to go to the bathroom. Then we can...talk, and eat. Okay?” Michael forced what he hoped was a casual, winning smile, and then scuttled across to the bathroom the moment Ashton made a noise of agreement and nodded his head.

Michael clicked the lock shut and put the toilet lid down as he pulled his phone from the pocket of his sweatpants. He began tapping away with urgency as he took a seat on the toilet, pulling up his message thread with his best friend.

SOS!!!! 🚨

Luke!!!!

Where are you

LUKE FUCK HELP ME YOU DICK

With each message he sent, Michael could feel his panic beginning to swell back up in his chest. Finally, three dots began moving across the message to indicate Luke was writing. Help was on the way.

🥺🥺🥺 What’s up

Michael felt what he knew was an unjustified rage at Luke and his fucking emojis as he furiously typed a reply.

Oh nothing, I just had sex with my new roomate!!!

Michael jumped when his phone immediately started vibrating relentlessly, sliding his finger across the screen and holding it gingerly to his ear.

“Hello?” He whispered into the receiver.

“WHAT!!! What do you mean you’ve slept with him?! Ashton was due there at 12, and it’s now...12 minutes past 12! That’s INSANE, even for you! I cannot believe-”

“Luke!” Michael hissed through clenched teeth, turning on the cold tap on the sink before he spoke again. “Not today, idiot! Remember, months ago, when I broke my phone? That weekend, I hooked up with that guy I met at The Alchemist? Red hair, big arms, amazing mouth-”

“Yes, I remember! What’s that got to do with it?” Luke cut in.

“It was Ashton. I only knew him as Ash, remember? And obviously I never saw him again because I had no way to contact him after I broke my phone. But it’s him, Luke - he’s in my living room! In OUR living room! What am I gonna do?! I am freaking out!”

“Oh my God! You’ve really outdone yourself this time, Mike! You’ve had your new roommates dick in your mouth before he even moved in! Classic you.”

Michael could practically hear Luke’s eyeroll. “This is not classic me! Dick! Help me, Luke!”

“What do you want me to do, I can’t unfuck him for you!” Luke shot back. Michael let out an involuntary whimper and slumped further down on the toilet. He was so screwed.

***

Michael emerged from the bathroom, Luke’s advice ringing in his ears as he approached Ashton on the sofa. ‘He’s a really nice guy, Mike; just talk to him. Explain what happened after you hooked up, and say you hope you can put it behind you and be friends. I think he’ll be cool, honestly. Just try not to trip and land on his dick and you should be golden.’

He took one last deep breath as he sat down on the black leather beside his one-time lover.

“So, Ashton...I...listen, I’m sorry that I broke my phone and made you think I’d ghosted you. I’m just an idiot that dropped his phone outside Sainsbury’s. And I’m really sorry I didn’t recognise you straight away, I was just expecting someone I hadn’t, and your hair, and glasses, and-” Michael could feel himself starting to babble but he couldn’t stop himself; he was so desperate for Ashton to like him. He was trying not to think about why it was this important to him.

Ashton held his hand up to stop him with a small smile. “Michael, it’s okay.”

Michael stopped short in his unravelling with a look of surprise. “It is?”

Ashton’s smile grew wider. “Yeah. I was just a bit blindsided, and I was hurt at the time back then, you know? But you explained, you apologised, and you seem like a nice guy. Luke sure can’t talk you up enough, and I trust him. I have no reason not to believe this is gonna be all good.”

Michael blinked, unsure if this was too good to be true. “Yeah? So...we’re good? You’re gonna...stay?”

Ashton relaxed back into his seat, toeing his shoes off and under the coffee table. “If that’s okay with you, yeah. We’re both grown ups; we can keep it platonic and put the past behind us, right? Friends?”

Michael nodded, trying to hide the gulp in his throat. “Yeah, of course. Right. Great. Friends.” He could definitely do this.

***

He could definitely not do this.

It’d been a long one month, two weeks and three days of trying to convince himself that he didn’t want to be anything more than Ashton’s friend and roommate.

Some days, Michael thought it was possible to put those lingering feelings away and focus on their blossoming platonic relationship. After all, Ashton was everything most people could ever want in a flatmate. He was tidy, considerate, fairly quiet and respectful of personal boundaries. The slightly older man was also great company. Michael has had many pleasant conversations with him over breakfast and in the evenings before they went to bed.

As lovely as all of that was, Michael had started questioning if it was worth the growing ache in chest for more. Each new thing he learnt about Ashton made him more sure that he was probably the closest thing to the perfect man that Michael would ever know. It was a cruel twist of fate that had meant his one opportunity to have Ashton for himself had slipped through his fingers, quite literally. He cursed himself on a daily basis for that one clumsy moment when he’d fumbled pulling his old phone from his too-tight jeans outside the supermarket and had been forced to watch his only chance with Ashton sink into a muddy puddle.

Whatever higher powers existed had been even less kind to have that strong, gorgeous, well-hung man turn up on Michael’s doorstep months later, as his only hope of being able to keep the flat he’d grown to love.

Every day since then, seemed to have presented a new challenge or torture. First it was the tight t-shirts and vests Ashton wore more often than not. They accentuated every muscle of the raven-haired man’s torso and displayed his strong biceps in all their glory.

Then came the sleepy morning routine they’d subconsciously fallen into. Ashton would emerge from his room in nothing but his loose grey sweats and crooked glasses, his hair ruffled and his eyes heavily lidded, before joining Michael for a hasty breakfast which usually consisted of cereal or toast and mug of strong coffee. It was during these sluggish mornings when they’d started to bond over their mutual love of crime dramas and fantasy movies, among other things. That had naturally led to evening-long Criminal Minds marathons whole weekends debating whether the Lord of the Rings movies or the Harry Potter movies were the better adaptations of their original books. Those playful arguments had spilled over into text messages now, so Michael couldn’t even escape his torturous living situation when he went to work.

Despite all of that hardship, the most latest and arguably the toughest challenge Michael found himself facing, was Ashton’s morning yoga. At first, the older man had kept that part of his morning routine confined to his bedroom. For some reason or another, over the last week or so, Ashton had decided that the living area was a more suitable location for this activity.

If Michael thought that sleepy, shirtless morning Ashton was hot, then sleepy, shirtless morning Ashton doing the ‘downward dog’ was positively off the fucking scale. The way his large hands pressed into the yoga mat and the way his strong arms and legs tensed as he straightened his back and pushed his arse up into the air lingered in Michael’s mind all day. These images often flickered through his mind at night too, when he was alone in his bed with nothing but his hand for company.

Deciding that a little get together with some friends would help dispel some of the tension, Michael floats the idea of asking Calum and Luke over for a ‘lads night’. Ashton had agreed easily, being a generally social person, he’d seemed enthusiastic about the possibility of hosting a mini party.

A group message is created and it doesn’t take long to settle on the following Friday night for beer, snacks and a FIFA tournament.

Ashton seemed to have been looking forward to it, often mentioning how excited he was to get to know Calum better and asking Michael to help him decide between certain snacks to purchase for the occasion.

All in all, Michael was proud of himself for the idea, focusing on hosting a couple of friends had certainly given both him and Ashton something new to focus on.

It was only when Friday arrived that Michael started to doubt his plan. Watching Ashton arrange plates of snacks on the kitchen counter, with the cutest concentration face he’d ever seen, started to make Michael wish they were spending the evening alone instead. He quickly pushes the thought of his head, berating himself for thinking something so stupid. It’s not like anything could happen between them even if they were alone, they were roommates now, that’s where their relationship ends.

“So....” Ashton broke the silence enveloping the flat as he finished pouring a bag of cheesy Doritos into a bowl. “Did you finally solve the mystery of who was stealing people’s shit from your fridge at work?”

Michael was caught off guard by the question. He’d been watching Ashton so intently that he momentarily forgot about everything else. It took him a moment to remember that he’d been keeping Ashton up to date with the ongoing lunch burglar drama at the DIY store he worked at. “Oh, umm no, not yet! But Brenda finally told Linda to stick her fake friendship where the sun doesn’t shine.”

A genuinely delighted smile burst into Ashton’s face as he headed into the living room area. “Good for her! Linda sounds like a bitch…”

It really meant a lot to Michael that Ashton took such an interest in his work life. The fact that he cared so much about people he didn’t know, but was aware they meant a lot to Michael, was also heartwarming.

Before Michael could go into more detail about the break time drama, a knock at the front door interrupted him. “Oh yay! Our first guest!” Ashton beamed, jogging off towards the front door to greet Calum.

***

As soon as the beer and wine had started flowing, Michael’s ever-present pining for Ashton dulled to an almost non existent haze at the edges of his mind. Sure, his knees felt weak every time Ashton flashes him that dopey smile of his and he might have blushed whenever their knees touched as they competed against each other in a thrilling game of virtual soccer.

That was all better than his usual all-consuming lust, so Michael was somewhat proud of himself. He even managed to surprise the urge to let Ashton win their game, and was almost smug when his player sent the football flying past Ashton’s keeper to secure a 2-1 win.

“Motherfucker!” Ashton grumbled, throwing his control pad into the sofa as he fixed Michael with look that was almost definitely the hottest gaze he’d ever been caught under. “I’m gonna get you for that, Clifford.” It sounded like a promise that held more weight than the simple challenge to a rematch it was probably meant to be.

Michael had to fight back a whimper, staring into Ashton’s beautiful hazel eyes this closely was too much. The intensity of it all rendered him momentarily speechless and he was all-too glad when Ashton got to his feet and headed for the kitchen.

“I need to drown my sorrows.” The black-haired man laughed, breaking the tension that had descended on them before heading off to the kitchen. Ignoring the knowing looks from his two friends, Michael picked up Ashton’s discarded controller and tossed it to Luke. “Your turn to face me, Hemmings. Let’s see if I can beat my all time record of beating you 6-1”

“Fuck off! You have never beat me that badly.” Luke huffed, picking up the control pad that had just landed in his lap. “I’m gonna enjoy kicking your ass in front of your new boy-“

“Shit, we’re out of beers already!” Ashton’s interruption came at exactly the right moment in Michael’s opinion. He really hadn’t wanted Luke to finish that sentence and now he wouldn’t get the chance.

“I’ll go to the shop for some more, does anyone have specific requests?” The eldest friend asked as he traipsed back into the living room area.

“Oh you don’t have to go!” Michael shrugged, “you should stay here, we’ll send Luke instead, he sucks at this game anyway.”

Luke scoffed, waving his hand defensively. “You’re not getting out of playing me that easily!”

Ashton laughed, his eyes sparkling as he checked that his wallet was still in his jeans pocket. “It’s fine. I’m already out of the competition and I wouldn’t want to give anyone else an unfair advantage.”

Maybe it was just the effects of the beers he’d already drank, but Michael could have sworn that Ashton’s gaze lingered on him a little longer than it probably should have. “You’re too nice.” The blonde beamed fondly, “I’ll transfer you my half of the money in the morning, unless you wanna take a tenner from my room?”

“Oh is that an open invitation?” Calum asked, a lazy smile curling the corners of his lips. “You owe me at least that from when we bet on whether or not Luke could drink that tzatziki sauce last time.”

“Fuck off, Calum! I don’t owe you a penny, I won that bet, Luke’s a fucking wuss…”

“Hey! I am not!” Luke interrupted incredulously.

“Okay, I need to hear that whole story when I get back!” Ashton giggled. “I’ll just grab a case of whatever beer is the cheapest though, yeah.”

There was a general murder of agreement before Ashton headed out of the front door. Michael fond him watching until Ashton had disappeared into the hallway, swinging the front door closed behind him. “He’s so nice…” The blonde sighed dreamily, still gazing at the closed front door. “Don’t you think he’s just the best?”

Calum and Luke exchanged a ‘is he for real’ glance before silently agreeing that this was the perfect opportunity to tease Michael about his blatant love for Ashton.

“Yeah, he’s pretty special.” Calum agreed, smirking slyly. “You really can’t sing his praises highly enough, can you?”

Shaking his head, Michael finally returned his attention to the TV. “You really can’t, he’s just so kind and sweet.”

Calum nodded in agreement. “Not bad to look at either!”

“Right?!” Michael giggled, oblivious to the fact that his tipsiness was making his lips too loose.

“Hey Mike.” Luke cut in, reaching over to nudge his friend’s shoulder. “How’s being in love with your flatmate working out for you?” His conversational tone was entirely at odds with mischief in his eyes. It confused Michael but the youngest friend’s words were altogether too bold, a blatant overstep if ever there was one.

Despite his inner rage at being called out like this, Michael fumbled, unable to cobble together an appropriate response. “Ugh, I don’t even… You’re so far-“

“There’s no point denying it anymore.” Calum chuckled, “I can feel the sexual tension between you two from across the hall!”

“God, I bet it’s like watching a car crash, isn’t it?” Luke asked, picking up the bowl of M&M’s on the coffee table. “It’s horrific but you can’t tear your eyes away? Am I right?”

Calum nodded. “It’s like watching a bad fucking soap opera.”

Michael felt offended and embarrassed but still no words seemed to form coherently in his mouth.

“At least it’s a bit less tragic now we can be sure it’s not entirely one sided!” Luke stage whispered with a calculating look on his face as he met Calum’s gaze.

“Yeah, it’s mildly less irritating!” Calum laughed.

“Wait, what do you mean?” Michael sputtered. “Ash and I agreed that our one night stand is ancient history, we’re not-“

“Oh puh-lease!” Calum scoffed. “If you two haven’t fucked again by the end of this month I’ll eat my bucket hat.”

***

Ashton had returned with a case of twenty four bottles of beer and as a result, lad’s night had ended up running into the early hours of Saturday morning.

Having drank his way through more than his fair share of that case, Michael didn’t end up rising from his pit until noon had long since been and gone.

“Ah you are still alive!” Ashton chuckled, tearing his attention away from the TV to look at his flatmate.

This was definitely not fucking fair. Michael didn’t need to look in a mirror to know that he looked exactly as he felt - rough as all hell. Ashton on the other hand, still looked as dreamy as ever. His black curls, although slightly ruffled and fluffy, were still on the stylish side of messy and he’d somehow found the motivation to get dressed, too, something Michael wasn’t even contemplating.

“I’m glad you’re up now, though, I wondered if you had anything planned for dinner?” Ashton asked, peering at Michael from behind his horn-rimmed glasses.

The thought of food made Michael’s stomach lurch unpleasantly and he had to fight to hold back a wretch.

Ashton gives a sympathetic giggle before pausing his show and rising to his feet. “I’ll take that as a no. Don’t worry, buddy. I have a plan but first…” he jogged over to the kitchen and flicked on the kettle. “Why don't you go and take a shower while I make you a tea? You’ll feel better after that and then we will talk dinner!”

As Michael plods over to the bathroom, he shoots one last look over at Ashton, busily preparing mugs on the countertop and tries his absolute hardest to remember a time that he wasn’t in love with his flatmate.

***

As always, Ashton was proven to be 100% correct.

Michael felt a million times better once he was showered and snuggled on the sofa with a mug of steaming tea.

“You look a little more alive now.” Ashton smirked, sparing Michael a sideways glance before returning his attention to ‘Law and Order’. “Do you think you can handle talking about dinner yet?”

The ache in Michael’s stomach felt a lot more like hunger than it had done when he first woke up and the thought of food didn’t make him feel like throwing up anymore so he nodded. “What’re your plans, chef?”

Ashton’s cheeks turned a rosy pink as he shrugged. “I couldn’t bear to see you try to cobble together another freezer meal so I thought you might like me to teach you a simple pasta dish?” He suggested, his tone a little shy like he was worried what Michael’s reaction would be. “I’ll do most of the work, but I thought if you helped out, you’ll learn how to make something other than Super Noodles.”

Michael couldn’t even be mad at the subtle dig at his cooking skills. He was terrible in the kitchen and it was just a little embarrassing that Ashton had noticed just how dyer his cooking skills were. “When you say simple, do you mean like a recipe and technique you can write on the back of a postage stamp because that’s about the level of my skill.”

Rolling his eyes, Ashton casually threw his arm around Michael’s shoulders. “Don't be so hard in yourself, buddy! I once taught Luke how to make scrambled eggs on the stove so he didn’t have to be a savage and use the microwave anymore, so there’s definitely hole for you, I promise.”

Michael tried to focus on the hat Ashton was saying but all that his slow, hungover brain could process was that he was pressed against his stupidly gorgeous flat mate’s side. The heady smell of Ashton’s minty body wash and the soft scent of his fabric conditioner felt intoxicating and Michael could do nothing besides allow his head to drop into Ashton’s shoulder.

To the blonde’s surprise, Ashton shuffle away or call him out on it. He simply rests his own head on Michael’s and laughs. “We’ll make a chef of you yet, Clifford.” He promised.

***

They spent a good three hours, watching reruns of C.S.I and making plans to start a Marvel movie marathon after dinner. They sat close to each other the whole time and Michael noticed Ashton watching him from the corner of his eye on at least three separate occasions.

By the time Ashton suggested they start making dinner, Michael had gone over his conversation with Calum and Luke the previous night, about sixty times. His two best friends had convinced him that Ashton wanted Michael just as much as Michael wanted Ashton.

“The way he looks at you, dude.” Calum laughed. “He’s practically imagining you naked at any given moment. It’s getting uncomfortable.”

“Don’t be stupid!” Michael reprimanded. “He doesn’t think of me like that anymore. We had a one night thing months ago. That’s it. Nothing else will ever happen between us again, we’re just flatmates.”

Calum and Luke exchanged a sceptical glance before bursting into laughter.

“Yeah right!” Luke huffed sarcastically. “Do you know how many times I hear your name come out of his mouth at work these days?”

Michael’s cheeks reddened. He had no idea that Ashton talked about him at work. It felt kind of surreal to imagine his roommate relaying snippets of their home life to Luke.

“Let me guess!” Calum interrupted. “About a thousand…”

Nodding, Luke drained the last of his beer. “Yeah and that’s just before lunch!”

“Honestly, if they don’t bang soon I’m gonna knock their heads together.” Calum sighed. “Did you know Michael comes over to my place most mornings so he doesn’t have to watch Ashton do topless yoga?” He asked Luke disbelievingly. “I want my lie-in’s back!”

At the time, Michael hadn’t believed his friends. He didn’t think that there was even a remote possibility that Ashton still carried a torch for him. But in the clear light of day, Michael couldn’t deny that all the signs were there… perhaps there could be more between them after all.

He followed Ashton into the kitchen, rolling up the sleeves of his grey oversized sweater, trying to clear his mind enough to be able to process learning a new skill.

“Okay, this is like the simplest recipe I know but it’s delicious and tastes so much better than the freezer junk you usually make for yourself.” Ashton rambles as he grabs a saucepan and a frying pan from the shelf near the cooker.

“Hey, freezer junk has been my lifeline on many occasions, I’d probably be dead without it.” Michael scoffed, only half joking.

Ashton rolled his eyes fondly, handing Michael the saucepan. “Fill this with water for me and then put it on the back hob, while it’s boiling I’ll teach you how to make the sauce.”

As Michael carried out his instructions, he couldn’t help but admire the concentration on Ashton’s face when he began rifling through the fridge and cupboard, pulling out various ingredients.

Once the pan of water was safely on the job Ashton had indicated, Michael returned his full attention to the slightly older man.

“Right, the first thing we do for the sauce is put 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil into this cold pan.” Ashton explained, pushing his glasses up his nose a little, reminding Michael of a hot English teacher or something… fuck, it was already difficult enough for Michael to concentrate without random fantasies about Ashton fucking him over a desk running through his mind. “Usually I’d never add oil to a cold pan, but for this particular recipe, it works because if the pan was already hot, the first ingredients would burn before the rest was in there.”

There was something about the way Ashton talked with such passion and confidence that made Michael wish he was confident enough to just drag him to the bedroom, his need for more from Ashton becoming unbearable. He forced himself to nod, pretending like he understood when really, Ashton could be telling him absolutely anything right now, and Michael would not know the difference because all he can think about is the way Ashton had groaned at the feeling of Michael’s nails running down his back and how he’d growled Michael’s name as he neared his climax.

“Can you pass me the basil?” Ashton asked, pulling Michael out of his memory.

The blonde surveyed the ingredients on the countertop. Luckily he recognised most of them, so he picked up the basil by process of elimination and handed it to Ashton like a dutiful sous chef.

Ashton looked mildly impressed as he took the bag of basil and took out handful. “We want about ten or so decent sized leaves and we tear them in half before adding them to the oil, okay?” He waited for Michael’s nod of understanding before tearing the leaves in his hand and dropping them into the pan.

“Then we need to chop 6-8 cloves of garlic directly into the pan.” Michael looked back at the little stack of ingredients and frowned, noticing an instant problem. “We only have one clove of garlic…” he pointed out, biting his bottom lip worriedly.

Ashton burst out laughing as he picked the garlic up from the counter. “This is a whole bulb, babe…” he explained, apparently not even noticing his use of the supposedly accidental pet name.

It was difficult for Michael to feel too offended by Ashton’s laughter when he’d just called him babe, though, so he let it go, focusing on the term of endearment, no matter how accidental it might have been, rather than the humour at his dumb mistake.

“It’s the smaller, wedge shaped pieces that are cloves, please don’t mix that up if you make this without my help.” Ashton chuckled, breaking six cloves from the bulb and picking up a tiny knife he’d laid out next to the oven.

“Don’t laugh at me!” Michael pouted. “I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I have no idea what I’m doing. I almost never do.”

Ashton gave him a fond smile. “You’re not alone in that, I promise…”

It was hard not to feel comforted by Ashton’s lopsided smile, so most of his embarrassment slipped away fairly quickly.

“I just chop off the little hard parts at the bottom of each clove and peel the skin off before chopping it directly into the pan. Don’t chop it on a board or you’ll lose some of the flavour.” Ashton explained carefully.

Michael watched with interest as Ashton demonstrated his technique with the first two cloves. He handed the third to Michael along with the knife and gestures for him to add it to the pan.

It took him probably three times longer to chop that one clove into the pan, than it took Ashton to do the first two, but he was encouraging and patient. The older man praised Michael for completing the tiny task, seeming genuinely impressed.

Once all six cloves of garlic had been added to the pan, Ashton turned on the hob into a medium heat. “Okay, so we stir this together for about five minutes. Can you do that while I open the tin of tomatoes?”

Michael nodded, picking up the wooden spoon from the counter and storing the simmering ingredients together. It already kinda smelt like his favourite Italian restaurant and his tummy grumbled impatiently.

“One thing I should specify is, you need to use tins of whole tomatoes, not chopped.” Ashton explained as he poured the first tin of tomatoes into the sizzling pan. “Can you pour in the second one?”

Michael did as he was told and watched as Ashton squished the whole tomatoes down and stored them into the red eat of the ingredients.

“Mmm it smells so good.” Michael sighed, breathing in the delicious smells.

Ashton looked proud of himself as he offered a smile. “Can you take over the stirring while I add the salt?”

Michael took the spoon from Ashton, ensuring that their fingers brushed.

There was a moment of eye contact and a silent shifting of tension between the two of them. If ever there was a time to bite the bullet and kiss Ashton, now would be it. His nerves failed him though and he dropped his gaze to the simmering pan.

Instead of moving around Michael to pick up the salt as he’d done for the tomatoes, Ashton simply reached past the blonde, pushing him against the counter momentarily before he pulled back to add the salt to the pan.

If Michael had been fully alert, he’d have recognised that for the flirtatious move it was meant to be, as it was, he put it down to a simple lack of judgement on Ashton’s part and continued to concentrate on stirring the sauce.

***

The tomato pasta tasted as good as it had smelt. It turned out to be exactly what Michael’s hungover body had needed.

He and Ashton had eaten it at their little table in the kitchen. Conversation had flowed freely as always, skirting around flirtatious at times but never quite enough for Michael to pluck up the courage to take things further.

“The only thing that would have made that better would have been a nice glass of white wine, but I thought you were still a bit too delicate for that.” Ashton giggled as he picked up the empty plates from the table and carried them over to the kitchen sink.

“Hey, you drank as much as I did!” Michael pouted, picking up the empty glasses and following Ashton to the sink. “How’re you not hungover.”

Ashton chuckled as he ran the water into the washing up bowl. “You’re just a lightweight, Mikey.”

It wasn’t the first time Michael had been called that so it didn’t take him by surprise. He laughed it off as he grabbed a tea cloth ready to dry the dishes that Ashton washed. “One day you’ll stop teasing me, Irwin.”

Ashton shook his head. “Don’t count on it, babe… you’re too easy to make fun of, that’s not my fault.”

There it was again, that little slip, a fond nickname that roommates probably shouldn’t have for one another.

Quickly pulling himself together, Michael nudged his flatmate in the arm, just hard enough to pull a surprised “oof” from him.

“Careful now.” Ashton warned jokingly. “You don’t want to start a scuffle you can’t finish, Clifford.”

Michael threw caution to the wind and nudged Ashton again, deliberately keeping his gaze on the plate he was drying.

“That’s it!” Ashton huffed, scooping up a handful of bubbles and swiping them across Michael’s face.

The blonde spluttered and shook his damp fringe out of his face before fixing Ashton with a glare. A few acts of retaliation flashed through his mind. He could have whipped Ashton with the tea cloth or splashed him with dishwater but none of that happened.

There was something about the way Ashton’s eyes were sparkling, almost like he was daring Michael to do the thing he’d been too scared to do this whole time. He refused to let another opportunity pass like before when they were making the pasta sauce. Michael tried not to overthink as he stepped forward and cupped Ashton’s face with one hand before leaning in and kissing him.

The raven-haired man’s lips felt every bit as soft as they had done on that night seven months ago. Ashton didn’t kiss back with the same hunger and desperation that he had done back then, though.

Michael stepped back, feeling his cheeks heat up in an embarrassed blush. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that, Ash…”

Ashton bit his bottom lip between his teeth as he stared at Michael intently. “No…” He said, finally breaking his silence. “You just shouldn’t have waited so long.”

The older man’s words had barely penetrated Michael’s brain before he was being pressed against the counter behind him. Ashton’s lips were on his again but this time they were working just like they had been that night at Ashton’s old place.

The intense kiss pulled a whine from Michael and he automatically wrapped his arms around the older man’s neck.

It started as a fairly simple kiss but it quickly began to build momentum. It was the crack in the dam holding back all of their emotions for all this time.

“Ashton…” Michael gasped as they pulled apart for air. “I know we said we should just be friends but…”

“Fuck being just friends.” Ashton mumbled as he worked kisses down Michael's neck. “I can’t pretend anymore.”

Those words were all Michael needed to hear in order to relax into this. “I can’t tell you how bad I’ve wanted this.” He whispered.

Ashton slipped one of his thighs between Michael’s as he nipped at the blonde’s neck. “I think I have some idea.” He groaned. “I never stopped thinking of the way you moaned my name that night, Michael.” The older man confessed, pulling back just enough to look Michael in the eye. “Wanted it again since the moment I walked in here.”

The way Ashton was looking at him like he wanted to devour every inch of Michael, had the blonde melting. “Me too.” He crashed his lips against Ashton’s in another desperate kiss as he subconsciously rutted against the older man’s thigh. After the months Michael had spent feeling kind of lonely and touch-starved, the tiny amount of friction was enough to have him whimpering against Ashton’s lips.

“Uh, you sound and taste even better than I remember.” Ashton muttered, pressing his thigh harder against Michael’s crotch to pull another little gasp from him.

“Ashton! Fuck, please, I…” Michael’s head tipped back as he lost his fight to regain any sort of control over his own body. He was in Ashton’s control now, and Ashton knew it.

“Come on…” Ashton coaxed, stepping back from Michael as he took both of his hands in his to pull him away from the kitchen counter. Michael whined high in his throat as he easily followed where Ashton led.

Michael had hardly been into Ashton’s bedroom since he had helped him move some furniture the day he moved in; it had almost felt too intimate to go into Ashton’s personal space given the history between them. Seeing it now, cozy and dark with slithers of light coming through the window from the lamp posts outside, gave Michael a chill; it felt like Ashton was sharing a secret with him.

He followed Ashton’s lead dutifully all the way to the bed, accepting the deep kiss Ashton offered him as a reward, before the older man peeled his oversized sweater from his torso, breaking away to pull it over Michael’s head. Michael wanted more contact, but was disappointed when Ashton gently but decisively laid him down among the crisp sheets, instead.

Ashton pulled his own t-shirt over his head in one fluid motion and flicked the lamp on his bedside table on, bathing the bed in a warm glow that made Michael feel like he was in a dream.

Michael gazed in wonder at Ashton as he climbed into bed beside him, letting his eyes travel all over his arms and chest, taking in the extra tone and definition in his body since the last time he’d been able to stare at him like this; clearly, the yoga was doing more than just allowing Ashton to ‘find his centre’.

He didn’t think he was anything special to look at, but he could see Ashton mirroring his own actions, eyes full of lust searching all over the parts of Michael’s body he could see, and even his gaze lingering on a part he couldn’t.

“Ash,” Michael breathed out, surprising himself with how far gone he sounded already. “Take ‘em off, I wanna…” He trailed off as Ashton’s eyes snapped up to meet his own, holding eye contact for only a moment before he nodded almost imperceptibly, shuffling down the bed and taking hold of the waistband of Michael’s sweatpants. He returned his gaze to the pale man before him, biting his own lip as he allowed his fingertips to graze the skin of Michael’s hips. “These too?” Ashton questioned in a low voice as he brushed the fabric of Michael’s underwear.

“Oh God, yeah”, Michael answered, squirming slightly from the infuriatingly gentle feel of Ashton’s touch. Ashton didn’t need to be told twice. Michael shivered with the feeling of being suddenly completely exposed as his sweatpants and underwear hit the carpet. Michael looked up at Ashton through his lashes, braced up on his knees in his black, ripped jeans. “You’d better be planning on losing those in the next second, Irwin.”

Ashton smirked as he undid his jeans. “And I mean your underwear, too!” Michael amended hastily, hungry to see if his memory of Ashton’s body was accurate.

The dark-haired man’s smirk grew wider at Michael’s clarification, pulling his zip down and allowing his jeans to fall open, exposing only bare skin beneath. “Underwear?”

Michael’s jaw dropped a little, prompting a deliciously filthy laugh from his roommate. “For the record, roomie - I don’t wear underwear.” Ashton winked as he yanked his jeans down as far as he could in his current position, before wriggling around to pull them off completely. Michael was pleased to see that, if anything, his memory had been selling Ashton short. Blame it on the alcohol.

Michael didn’t know how to decide on what to do first; on one hand, he wanted to kiss Ashton non-stop for the rest of eternity, but on the other hand, if he didn’t get filled up in the next 10 minutes, he was definitely going to throw a tantrum. Luckily, he realised, it probably wasn’t up to him. All of his experience with Ashton so far told him that the older man would definitely be taking the lead, and this was definitely not a problem for Michael. Indeed, it had worked out very well for him last time, when his staff night out started at the bar and ended with Ashton eating him out like his life depended on it.

“What are you thinking?” Ashton’s sultry voice broke through his thoughts, apparently wanting a coherent answer despite the fact that he had just begun to run his fingers up and down Michael’s sensitive, pale inner thighs. Michael let out a shuddery breath as he tried to use his words to tell Ashton he wanted anything and everything possible between them, right there and then. Perhaps the way his cock twitched when Ashton let one his nails run over a faded stretch mark right at the base of one of his thighs would speak for itself.

“Maybe we should get right to, huh, gorgeous?” Ashton teased, withdrawing his touches to lean towards his bedside table. He pulled open the top drawer, fumbling only for a moment until he found what he was looking for. The lube and condom were dropped carelessly onto the mattress as he shut the drawer again, returning his attention to the man almost-beneath him immediately. “We’ve got plenty of time for all the other goods stuff; right now, I need to fuck you, and I know you need me to fuck you...don’t you?”

Michael wondered at what point in his life he had begun to communicate exclusively in whines, but Ashton seemed to be into it, so it didn’t matter. Michael watched impatiently as Ashton popped the top on the half-empty bottle of lube, wasting no time in squirting a generous amount onto two fingers on his right hand and pulling Michael’s leg fully around his hip with his left.

Michael’s heart jumped as much as his cock when Ashton breathed gently on the lube coating his fingers in an attempt to warm it slightly before he brought them straight down to Michael’s bare hole, rubbing over it in a firm circle.

Michael was glad he didn’t have the problem of not wanting his roommate to hear him getting fucked, anymore, as he let out his loudest, neediest whine yet. Ashton proved he had meant what he said about not taking their time with their second tryst, sinking his index finger inside Michael in one fluid motion. Before Michael had got to 10, Ashton was opening him up at a steady, delicious pace and was driving Michael crazy in record time.

Michael wouldn’t claim to be a pornstar or anything, but he didn’t normally have a problem with stamina. If Ashton kept it up like this, though, Michael was in danger of coming before Ashton’s thick cock got any closer to him, and that was unacceptable.

“Ash, please, I can’t...I want, ne-your cock, please!” Michael cried out as Ashton probed his spot one last time before immediately acquiescing to Michael’s begging. Michael wriggled at the loss of Ashton’s fingers, but took comfort in the fact that Ashton was already tearing the condom packet open.

Michael watched in awe-tinged anticipation as Ashton gave himself a couple of loose tugs once he had the condom on, before closing in on his lover once more, making sure Michael was laid comfortably on the pillows as he positioned himself over him. Michael clung to Ashton’s shoulders as he lined himself up, just resting the tip on Michael’s slick hole for a moment.

Ashton’s hazel eyes bore down into Michael’s green ones with a soft fire as he raised one hand to brush Michael’s fringe out of his flushed face. Michael let out a breath he hadn’t realised he was holding as Ashton pushed in - slowly, but all the way.. He felt like he was sinking and floating simultaneously, and wrapped his arms around Ashton’s neck to anchor himself here, with him, in this moment.

Ashton pressed his face deep into Michael’s neck, kissing and sucking his way up towards Michael’s ear. “You good?” He murmured, shifting his hips a miniscule amount. “Yeah,” Michael breathed, “S’good, please…”.

With a final nip to Michael’s neck, Ashton pulled back slightly and began to move his hips properly, his cock sliding halfway out each time as he began to build a steady rhythm for them. Michael felt that perhaps in their sexual relationship so far, he was earning himself the reputation of a bit of a Pillow Princess, and so he began to move his own hips to meet Ashton’s building thrusts. Ashton groaned, long and loud, at the heightened sensations Michael’s movements brought, and they began to work together towards their goal.

Suddenly, Ashton’s mouth was crowding his, his tongue sliding into his mouth in a glorious kiss that Michael never wanted to end. He couldn’t tell if it had been 10 minutes or 10 hours when he felt that familiar feeling begin to bubble in the lower stomach. Ashton had begun to up the pace of his thrusts, his hips occasionally stuttering as groans rumbled low in his throat, so Michael knew they were on the same page.

“Ash,” He murmured in the millisecond between kisses. “Touch me, please, I’m getting so-” Michael broke off into a moan as Ashton was already wrapping a firm hand around his neglected cock, stroking it with determination and flicking his thumb over Michael’s dripping head. “You close, baby?�� He murmured, eyes drifting over Michael’s face and the arousal present there. Michael was starting to writhe slightly and his head was flopping to the side on the pillow, but Ashton wanted his attention. With his free hand, he took Michael’s chin and turned his head to meet Ashton’s stare. The moment Michael was forced to meet his strong, heated gaze, his hazel eyes boring down on him with such intensity, Michael felt the kick of heat and it was all over. He cried out Ashton’s name and let out a series of curses and moans as he came, hard and hot over Ashton’s hand and their sweaty stomachs in equal measure.

Michael hadn’t finished himself before he felt Ashton taken by surprise, as well; his hips shooting forward to fill him to the hilt for the last time as he spilt into the condom, releasing Michael’s chin to brace himself through his orgasm on the pillows. “Michael, fuck!”

Michael regained enough control to watch Ashton’s face through hooded eyes as he came, moaning and unrestrained as he finished. He thought he looked heavenly.

As they both fought to catch their breath, Ashton pulled out gingerly, releasing Michael from his grip as he moved away to remove and dispose of the condom. Michael wriggled in place, trying to get comfortable to recover from what he hoped would be the first of many. Ashton came back from the bin in the corner and flopped back down, alongside Michael now, lifting his arm to allow Michael to snuggle in under it when he wrapped it around him. “So…” He said, sounding casual as you like. “About the whole platonic, friendly, roommate thing…”

masterlist for the 5sos ficwriters collab • my masterlist

97 notes · View notes