#nick x dallas | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

drewsbuzzcut · 6 months

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All American Lace

nick moldenhauer x dallas blankenburg

a so it goes fic (7.3k words! def the longest i have ever written)

warnings: angst, insecurities, jealousy, slight physical touch, pettiness, mentions passing out, and I think that’s all but let me know if I missed anything

SUNDAY

“I really don’t think it’s all that crazy,” Nick states, his arm thrown over Dallas’ waist as they lay in his bed.

“Just because it’s crazy, doesn’t mean it’s bad. It’s very crazy if we get married. We’re only 19,” Dallas says through a sleepy voice. They’ve been talking about Nick’s proposal from a month ago. Dallas knows her answer, yes of course, but she still can’t get herself to go through with it. She’s too ridden with fear of their relationship failing because of an early marriage. She just needs a push, though. One push so she can say yes.

“So what? Nathan and Haley got married while they were still in high school. I know our relationship is strong enough to last through anything,” he brings out the big guns, referencing one tree hill, one of their favorite shows to binge together.

“That’s just a show, babe. It isn’t real life.”

“It can be real life for us,” he sighs, hand caressing her cheek as her hand rubs at his shoulder.

Screw it. She’s going to go with her gut and heart and finally answer his question. Maybe they can go browsing at thrift stores for vintage dresses. It is Sunday after all.

“Nick, I love you so much.”

“I love you.”

She kisses his lips, barely brushing against them.

“I will-“

“Nick! You have a visitor!” The couple hear the shout from behind the door.

Nick gives a confused look to Dallas before getting off the bed and getting dressed.

“I’ll be right back,” he says, walking out the door.

Dallas stays frozen, angered that her opportunity got ruined. She gets off the bed, throwing on one of his shirts that has his last name on the back, and follows her boyfriend. When she gets to the front door, she freezes, feeling a sense of discomfort washing over her. Her boyfriend was hugging another girl. Another girl who is absolutely beautiful. She has soft skin, long red hair, and the greenest eyes she’s ever seen. Her smile is beautiful and Dallas thinks she might be feeling jealous. Who is this girl and why is she hugging her boyfriend?

When Nick finally lets go of the unknown girl, he turns around and is quick to spot Dallas. His smile is wide, like a kid on Christmas.

“June, this is a close friend from home, Inez.”

So she has a name. Inez. It’s beautiful and rare to Dallas’ ears.

“Inez, this is Dallas my girl-“

“His fiancée,” Dallas interjects, reaching out her hand for Inez to shake.

“Fiancée? Wow, Nick, you never told me you were getting married. Congrats,” she cheers, although Dallas can hear the surprise in her voice.

Nick’s stuck on Dallas, silently freaking out that she just called herself his fiancée. He’s shocked by her words, not really understanding why she’d introduce herself with that title without even giving him an answer first. He shakes his conflicting thoughts out of his head, not wanting to open up that conversation at the moment.

“Yeah, my fiancée,” he pulls his girl into his arms.

“Well, Dallas, it’s really nice to meet you. I can’t say I’ve heard much about you though,” Dallas grits her teeth, her brain starting to create reasons as to why Nick never brought her up to his friend. She didn’t know that Nick hasn’t talked to Inez in months.

“I can say the same,” she decides to answer with.

“I guess that means we have to get to know each other. I hate to impose, but I really need to shower all the airport off of me. Do you mind, Nick?” Her voice is soft and sweet. Dallas finds it annoying.

“No, go ahead.”

Once she’s out of sight, Dallas turns to Nick with a questioning look.

“Okay, so who are we getting to babysit her while we go to the thrift stores?” Dallas asks, albeit a bit rudely, but she disguises it by leaning up to wrap her arms around his neck.

“She’s not a child. I can’t go to thrift stores today. I need to stay here with Inez,” he says softly. He’s bothered, she can tell by the way he barely touches her.

“It’s Sunday, though. We always go to the thrift stores,” she points out.

“Well, I can’t go today,” Dallas doesn’t know it, but by Nick not going, or suggesting they take Inez, he’s protecting their sunday tradition. He does feel guilty for breaking it, though. They always go to the thrift stores on Sunday unless he has a hockey game or other team requirement.

“Are you serious?” She spits out, already wanting to burst into tears. He’s never put her second to another girl.

“I’m sorry, baby,” he kisses her forehead.

“It’s whatever. I’m going to head out, stick to my Sunday tradition,” she mutters, throwing a low blow at him. The tradition did start off as her own, so she’s letting him know that it’ll always be hers even after involving him.

He feels his heart pang in his chest at her comment.

Dallas trudges through his room, collecting her items and dressing in her clothes. She walks past him, not even saying bye, and makes her way to her car.

If she sped all the way to her favorite thrift store while blaring angry Taylor Swift, well no one had to know.

Dallas hates to admit it, but being at the thrift store doesn’t feel the same without Nick. She kicks herself for being so harsh. She knows she’s in the wrong, and probably being too jealous, but she couldn’t help it. How could he choose Inez over her? Over their sacred tradition.

Sweet, perfect Inez. Dallas rolls her eyes at the mere image of her. Stopping at one of the mirrors in between aisles, she stares at herself. She hates that she’s letting herself dig a hole that she knows she won’t be able to climb out of. She takes a deep breath in, slowly breathing out every insecurity and horrid thought of the girl that now plagued her mind. When she opens her eyes, she spots an old wedding dress. It’s the most beautiful dress she’s ever seen. It has a bunch of lace and it was made in America. It’s also vintage and in perfect condition. A rare find. Dallas immediately puts it in her cart, feeling giddy at the thought of her wearing it when she marries Nick.

About an hour later, Dallas decided to head to checkout, purchasing the dress, a white button up for Nick, and a fancy watch for him as well.

Once back at her own place, in her room she finds an old box that’s ready to be filled with anything that has to do with their wedding. She feels a little crazy thinking about it, but she knows that she wants to marry Nick. She knows that she doesn’t want to wait.

MONDAY

Dallas opens her door to find Nick who immediately pulls her into a bone crushing hug. He noses at her hair, inhaling her addicting scent and kisses her lips a few times.

“I’m sorry. I love you.”

“I love you, Nicky.”

“I hope it’s okay that I brought Inez with me,” and just like that Dallas is back to feeling unwell.

She sucks it up, welcoming the girl into her home. She hopes that her smile didn’t falter enough to show just how much she didn’t like the idea.

“You decorate so nicely,” Inez compliments as she makes herself comfortable on the couch, opposite of Dallas who’s in Nick’s arms.

“Oh, thank you. A lot of it has to do with my roommate and best friend, Sienna. She’s going to be an interior designer,” Dallas says, trying to put on a friendly smile.

“That’s cool!”

“So, how long have you and Nick been friends?” Dallas asks, intertwining her fingers with Nicks.

“Since 5th grade! We have gone through a lot together. Nick has always been the one I do everything with,” Inez says with a sadness to her tone. Her smile isn’t as bright, but it’s still genuine.

“Wow, the 5th grade? That’s a long time. You must know each other very well,” Dallas concludes.

“We do! When I saw the instagram post of your Halloween costumes, I was very surprised. Nick has never really cared for Halloween and doing the whole couples costume thing. As well as when Nick told me he proposed on Valentine’s Day; I was in shock. I’ve never known Nick to like that holiday or be so romantic,” as Inez says all this, Dallas can feel her heart sink into her stomach.

Every word being spoken to her starts to fade out and she feels like the guy sitting next to her isn’t who she thought. To everyone it may have been him lying about those two holidays- that most people don’t even consider holidays, but a lot of pivotal memories happened during those events. Without even realizing it, Dallas stoically pulls her hand from where it was cradled in Nicks. Eerily feeling like a stranger in her own home.

Inez and Nick only spend a couple more hours with the girl, talking and laughing while everything continues to be reevaluated in Dallas’ mind. She tries to smile and converse with them, but she just feels so out of place.

It’s not until they leave that she feels like she can breathe. She has time to go through everything and think about how he technically lied to her. Why wouldn’t he tell her that he didn’t care for Halloween? She wouldn’t have made him dress up with her.

She moves throughout the day, but everything seems to pass her by. Even when Nick comes by later that night to bring her food, she’s not even present.

“What’s wrong, baby?” Nick cups her cheek, trying to get her to connect eyes with him.

Dallas feels her tears trailing down her cheeks, although she isn’t aware that she’s actually crying until Nick frowns in worry.

“She’s your best friend,” speaking those words is almost impossible. It feels like burning bile in her throat, because she’s supposed to be his best friend, but how could she when felt like she didn’t even really know him.

“What’re you talking about?” His voice is soft and low. He continues to wipe away her tears as they fall.

“Inez, she’s your best friend,” she whispers.

“What? No, no, she’s just my friend. You’re my best friend,” he corrects her, his head shaking furiously.

“No! She’s your best friend and I’m not. I didn’t even know that you don’t care for Halloween or Valentine’s. I feel like I don’t really know your true self. What else do you not like? What else do I not know about you?” Dallas rips herself from his hands, moving to her bedroom so Sienna wouldn’t have to hear them.

“We’re always learning new things about each other, so there’s a lot we still don’t know, but that’s what the rest of our lives are for. As for Halloween and Valentine’s, I never felt like I had to tell you. You love Halloween, so I wanted to dress up with you. You actually made me love it because it was so much fun. You love Valentine’s Day, so I wanted it to be as special as possible,” he explains, trying to hold her but she continues to pull away.

“That’s not the point though! You could’ve told me, because I want to know every little thing about you. I just feel like I don’t know you as well as I thought. It’s a bit off putting,” she says.

“Well, now you do know,” Nick tries to make light of the conversation, but it just makes her upset.

She wants an apology. She’s not sure if this whole thing warrants one, but it’d be nice to know that she isn’t overreacting and is understood.

“Can you please leave?” She shuts her eyes, not willing to let more tears fall.

“Seriously?”

“Yes, Nick. I need you to leave. You obviously don’t understand why I’m upset, so just leave,” she blurts out.

“Fine. I love you, June,” he kisses her forehead. Nick pauses at the door, waiting for her to tell him to stay, but those words never come.

TUESDAY

Dallas throws herself into all her schoolwork as a much needed distraction. When she’s not doing schoolwork, she’s working on dismantling and reassembling the wedding dress she bought from the thrift. She may be upset with Nick, but she is still getting married to him.

She uses one of the scrap pieces of lace from the dress to be part of Nick’s white button up. She dyed the fabric black, cut out her initials and stitched it into the cuff of the sleeve. For her dress, she only saved certain parts of it. She saved the bodice, part of the skirt, and all of the lace. She decided to add thin straps and rework the lace into a veil. She wants a very simple, light wedding dress.

In the process of distracting herself from her little spat with Nick, she goes to a jeweler to get Nick’s watch she bought engraved. “You are my forever,” sits delicately in cursive on the back of it.

There may be a little retail therapy included in her small trip, but that’s only between her and her credit card.

After having a quiet dinner and mini fashion show with her best friend, she decides that it’s not worth being mad at Nick. She has to get over it and move on, because at the end of the day she loves him.

She smiles when she nears his room, his voice filling her ears.

“Yeah, I don't know what was going on last night. I guess she’s just being insecure because you’re here,” Dallas hears Nick say to who she’s assuming is Inez.

She can physically feel her blood start to boil, her heart thumping and mind racing. Before thinking about it, she throws his door open. Nick turns to see her, his face going pale at the realization that she heard his words. The three stare at each other, waiting for someone to break. It’s Dallas.

“Fuck you!” She shouts, turning around.

“June, wait!” Nick runs after her.

“Why, so I can hear you tell your best friend how your girlfriend is so insecure? No thank you,” she spits.

“Well, what else am I supposed to think? You acted crazy for me not telling you about Halloween. You said how she’s my best friend! You called yourself my fiancée when you never even answered my proposal in the first place. Which by the way, makes me feel like you don’t even love me, so yeah sorry for thinking you were insecure,” he blurts out.

Dallas feels her tears spill, her body shaking with nerves. Is this really happening right now? It really hurt to be accused of being jealous just because she accepted his proposal. She’s also being accused of not loving him. She really was going to say yes before Inez even showed up. It’s not her fault they got sidetracked by the red head.

“How dare you say that I only want to marry you because of her! How dare you say that I don’t love you. And you know what, she is your best friend, because you’re here gossiping to her about me. I can’t believe you told her that instead of making sure I was reassured. I guess it’s only okay when I reassure you whenever you get jealous. I don’t even give you a reason to feel jealous,” she rants.

As she goes to walk out his door, he tries to stop her once more.

“June, please don’t leave. Shit, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have told her that. I’m sorry for not being nicer about it, or talking to you about it. You’re the only one who matters,” he apologized.

“Don’t call me that anymore. You’re not my boyfriend and you’re not my fiancé,” she whispers, too scared to look up at his face.

“What? C’mon, please. We can talk about this. We can fix this. I can fix this, just tell me what to do. I’m sorry. I messed up, I know that, but we can’t break up. We’re getting married,” she clenched her eyes shut, not daring to see his tears. She knows he’s about to cry by the way his voice continues to crack.

Her back is to him, so he comes up behind her to pull her body into his. If it weren’t for the arm wrapped around her waist, she would’ve crumbled into the floor. She can feel his tears hitting the material of her sweater. It makes her heart break that much more. She hates that she’s hurting him, but his words hurt her. The way he openly talks to Inez about her as if she’s anybody but his fiancée. If roles were reversed, he’d feel the same way she’s feeling.

“No because apparently I don’t love you,” she throws his words back at him, having to pull away from him as his shoulders start to shake.

“Please. Please, I know you love me. I was being an asshole and I made a mistake. I’m sorry,” he pleads.

“I need to leave,” she says, walking away.

She feels like a robot on the walk back to her place. The cold bites at her skin, but it’s nothing compared to the way her heart aches and her stomach twists. She finds herself at Luca’s place, immediately sobbing against him when he pulls her into a hug. That night she watches the moon, silent tears falling as she tries to banish every thought she has of Nick. She can’t go home, not when there are traces of the hockey player in every single corner. His cologne and shampoo are embedded in her pillows. His clothes fill up a section of her closet. There are notes and pictures of them littered on her dresser and night stand. Ignoring him seems impossible.

WEDNESDAY

Deep breath in. Deep breath out. Focus on classes, go to a Pilates class, and then start working on some designs for her future clothing line.

That’s Dallas’ plan. A solid plan that will stop her from drowning in her tears and guilt. It will also distract her from the multitude of phone calls from her brother and Kent. If only she knew that last night Nick called Blanks in shameful tears to tell him what happened.

Soft purring breaks the girl’s attention of planning out her day. She feels sir’s soft fur as he rubs against her leg.

“Hi, sir moldy. Hi cutie, mommy loves you,” she coos, caressing her black cat who isn’t so small anymore.

Her soft smile starts to disappear as she thinks about her cat not seeing his favorite person, Nick. The ache in her heart makes itself known again.

Snap out of it.

Dallas vows to stay out of her dorm the entire day until her eyes are practically shutting with sleep. Dressing in a cute outfit and putting on her favorite lipstick, she’s out of her door before she can second guess her plan. Who says you can’t be cute and heartbroken at the same time?

Her two morning classes go by without a hitch, the girl finishing any remaining assignments for the week within an hour after they finish. Her work ethic when she’s trying to distract herself is insane.

After a small lunch, Dallas finds the nearest restroom to change into her workout clothes, but when she walks out she sees Nick in the direction she needs to go. Everything around her seems to freeze except for him. His movements are sluggish and his eyes are tired. She turns the other way just as they make eye contact. For a second she thinks she sees him try to get her attention, but she doesn’t stay around to find out.

Dallas makes sure to take a heated Pilates class instead, needing to sweat out every issue that’s clogging her brain. It works but only for a couple hours. Eventually the sweat dries and now her problems feel tacky on her skin. She couldn’t go back to her apartment, though she desperately needed a shower. If she were to go back, she’d just get sidetracked by all the things her ex has taken over in her room.

She drives out to a lookout spot, putting her car in park so she can draw up new prospects for her clothing line. It’s a bittersweet moment. A lot of her inspiration would spark when she was with Nick. She has to remind herself that her clothing line has always been something she wants. It’s something that she has to be one hundred percent sure about. There’s no time for her to be hurt and in return be neglectful to something she’s worked so hard for.

She has to remember to be grateful for the things that are still in her life.

It’s almost midnight when she returns to her apartment, finding Sienna cuddled up with Sir on the couch.

“Nick tried to see you like a few hours ago. He told me to tell you that he wants to talk,” Sienna says, not even in her apartment for a minute and Dallas already wants to leave again.

“Of course he wants to talk. He can fuck off for all I care. I made up my mind and he needs to deal with it. He can go talk to Inez,” the girl says with an agitated edge to her tone.

“Look, D, you know I love you, but maybe you should talk to him. I know he fucked up majorly, but you should still talk to him,” she brings her into a hug.

“Why, so he can relate it all back to Inez like the best friend she is? So he can try to convince me that she’s not his best friend? I don’t need to hear it,” she spits, removing herself from Sienna’s arms. She heads to her room to shower off the day and sleep for as long as she possibly can.

THURSDAY

“Have you told her about it?” Inez asks Nick in the quiet of the library corner they’re in.

“No. Not yet anyway. I am soon because I know she’s going to be upset if I wait any longer- even if we’re broken up. Hopefully the breakup won’t last too long, though,” he responds, eyes cast down on the paper he’s been procrastinating about.

“She’s not going to be happy. Maybe you shouldn’t tell her. If she finds out we took each other’s virginities, she’s going to be so much more mad,” Inez says, reaching out her hand to rest over Nick’s. It’s meant to be comforting. Nick still pulls his hand away, though.

“Yeah, just let me lie to my fiancée again about something much worse than commercial holidays. No, I need to tell her,” he snaps.

“I’m just trying to protect you. She’s not your anything anymore anyways,” Inez sneered.

“Well don’t,” Nick feels that Inez is partially to blame for his whole breakup. It’s not fair and to some extent, he knows that, but he doesn’t want to blame himself.

“How’re you going to make up for the whole insecurity thing?”

“I don’t know. Grovel, probably or explain why I said it.”

“Maybe you’re just not meant to be. I mean this is kind of crazy to get upset about, especially when she claims she’s your fiancée,” Inez reasons.

“Don’t talk about things you don’t understand.” The conversation ends there.

The entire day, Nick is constantly looking for Dallas. Outside the rooms he knows her classes take place, at her favorite on campus cafe, and around her favorite spot she likes to chill and write at. No matter how busy it is, it still feels like a ghost town with her absence clearly present.

Dallas watches Nick as he looks around. It seems as if he’s lost, but she knows that he’s looking for her.

She saw him at the library with Inez. She watched the way Inez was talking with her expressive hand gestures and the way Nick's face grew red. Dallas doesn’t know that it was out of annoyance and not in happiness.

To Dallas, they looked so comfortable as if they’re the ones who've been dating for months. Inez’ smile was easy to compare to the breathtaking sight of the sun after a few gloomy days. Her cheeks were coated in a perfectly shade-matched blush. Her plump lips were the perfect shade of pink. She had the prettiest ribbon tied in her red hair, and she just knew her perfume was heavenly. Dallas so badly wished she was the one talking to Nick, covering his hand with her own.

She’s never been someone to be jealous as she’s so confident in herself. Now, she finds herself wishing to be Inez, but hating that she’s has got to the point of where she doesn’t want to be her own person anymore. She also hates the way she never gave Inez a chance, the way she never let herself like her because she’s so likable. Maybe her and Nick would still be together if she didn’t immediately feel jealous of Inez. Dallas feels like she’s going to go insane with the way she keeps bottling up her every emotion towards the girl and her ex boyfriend or fiancé. Nevertheless, she keeps walking with her head held high, well as high as she can get it without her eyes blurring with tears. That elegance and grace she’s learned through ballet comes in handy at this very moment as she remains in a balance of sanity.

She’s so close to entering her apartment building when Nick catches her.

“Dallas!” Her body freezes, literally not being able to move her feet, but she can feel her heart rate speed up.

“Dallas, please let me talk to you,” Nick whispers once he’s close enough to the girl.

“What do you want?” She turns to face him, avoiding his eyes.

“I need to tell you something and after that I will have no more lies or things I’m keeping from you,” he says, but Dallas stays quiet, afraid her words will come out as shouts.

“Inez and I lost our virginities to each other in high school,” he blurts out, waiting in tense silence for Dallas’ reaction.

Dallas feels her heart being crushed between his two fingers. She thinks there’s a big possibility of her passing out on the cold ground. At least that impact won’t hurt as much as this. She finally snaps her head up, looking at him with a glare.

“Look, I never meant to hide it from you. I just knew that if you found out after all that’s happened, you’d freak-“ he’s cut off by a sharp slap to his cheek.

Dallas feels her palm grow warm and start to sting. Her eyes are wide, shocked that she just laid a hand on him. She watches the way Nick’s eyes start to tear up. He knows that this is it. She opens and closes her mouth, not sure what to say or if she should apologize for hitting him. She decides to slowly back away, not able to get herself to turn away from him. She watches his distraught figure as she backs away, tears trailing down her cheeks.

Her body moves on autopilot, reality finally crashing over her when she enters her apartment. Sienna watches with fearful eyes, not having ever seen her best friend in a state like this. Dallas looks at Sienna, her tears still falling. Again, words fail to come out of her mouth as she opens and closes it. Then, it’s like all the shock dissipates and anger takes over. Her eyes are going dark and her features are hardening. She marches to her room, ripping open her closet door. She starts yanking hangers away from each other, throwing out each piece of Nick’s clothing.

All the withheld anger and sadness came bubbling out of the girl in the form of screams. She couldn’t stop it as she shoved every article of clothing that belonged to him in a box. Did 19 year olds act like this? Well, they do now. Poor Sir got so scared he ran to the living room as his mom cleaned every spot that’s been stained by her ex boyfriend. Her movements come to a halt when her eyes land on her wedding box. The tears crash on her with so much weight she falls to her knees, sobs wracking her body. Sienna’s quick to rush to Dallas, immediately hugging her.

“Hey, it’s okay. Let it all out,” she murmured.

“He lost his virginity to her,” she whispers.

Sienna’s eyes widen as she hugs Dallas tighter.

“Shit. I’m so sorry.”

“Am I crazy for being upset? I feel like it shouldn’t be a big deal, but I’m just- I’m so hurt,” Dallas says through sobs and hiccups.

“You have every right to feel the way you do. I’m here for you for whatever you need,” Sienna attempts to soothe her.

“I just- I need to go to my room and calm down.”

“Okay.”

Dallas lugs her heavy body to her room, showers and then neatly packs everything that belongs to Nick in a box. She debates on whether or not she should give him the wedding box, too. Part of her still believed that she should continue to hold onto it because maybe things will get better. Then, she thinks about the new piece of information he just blurted out and she wants to die all over again. She feels that familiar burn of tears in her eyes, so she does the one thing she loves to do when her brain is too loud, write.

Instead of writing in her journal, she decides to write on a single piece of paper. Instead of writing how she feels, she writes a letter that’s a semblance of a goodbye. It’s everything the next girl needs to know or love about Nick, written from someone who loved him probably too much.

THE LETTER

To whoever gets to love Nick next,

He will pretend to like something you love just to make you happy. Don’t get mad at him for hiding the fact that he doesn’t like it. Just love him for wanting you to be happy.

Nick loves hockey, so you have to love him as a hockey player. No matter all the insane expectations that come with it, or how he’ll drive himself up a wall just to be great at something he loves.

Nick is such a goofy person- even when it’s time to be serious. I think it’s because he loves to see the people around him smile, so don’t get annoyed by his untimely silliness.

If you ever get the opportunity to be given a gift from Nick, prepare yourself. He’s one of the best gift givers I have ever met. It just goes to show how easy it is for him to remember everything about someone he loves.

Cherish the vulnerable moments. Don’t take his feelings for granted; they’re a big piece of him and that type of information is hard for anyone to confess to someone they’re scared to be hurt by.

I love you Nick, and in another universe, in another lifetime, our love will have been enough.

Dallas folds up the letter and places it on top of everything in the box. She picks it up, every memory and emotion weighing heavily in her arms. She trudges back to the living room, ignoring Sienna’s worried gaze as she sets the box down by the front door.

“If Nick happens to come by, or any of the hockey boys, give it to them. Thank you,” she mutters, walking back to her room.

FRIDAY

“Dallas, c’mon! I know you’re home, your car is parked outside. Please, please let me in. We need to talk and I want to see our cat,” Nick shouts from outside her door.

When Dallas first heard the knocks, she was doused in sleep. Then she heard his voice, and she was suddenly wide awake.

“No, you’re not coming in to see MY cat. I don’t want to talk to you, so leave,” Dallas cracks the door open just a bit, so she knows that he hears her.

“Dallas, please. Please let me fix this,” he pleads.

“No!”

“Nick, you need to leave. Here’s a box with all your things,” Sienna intervened, handing the box over to him while Dallas sat on the couch.

Nick’s face falls, his eyes getting watery and he searches his mind for words to say. Sienna closes the door before he gets the chance to speak up.

“Are you okay?” She asks Dallas.

Dallas furiously shakes her head. “I can’t be here. I need to go.”

“Okay where are you going?” Sienna follows Dallas to her room, watching her as she packs an overnight bag.

“Buffalo.”

“Buffalo? That’s a bit of a drive. Will you be able to make it?”

“Yes. I don’t want to go to Ohio, and I can’t stay here. I’ll be back before Monday. Thank you for being here for me. It means a lot. I love you,” Dallas says, hugging Sienna.

“Of course. I love you, too.”

Dallas rushes to her car, but she’s still seen.

“D!” Dallas halts her steps when she hears Rutger’s voice.

“Hey, Rut.”

“Where are you going?” He asks, spotting her bag.

“Somewhere for some peace and quiet,” she says.

“How are you feeling? I know everything has been kinda shitty lately.”

“I’m holding it together as best as I can. I’m really hurt and I just need to get away from here for a day or two,” she explains, her exterior softening at Rutger’s sincerity.

“I’m sorry about everything. If you need anything, Luca and I are here for you.”

“Thank you. It means a lot, but you know I can’t. Umm… anyways I have to get going. Thanks for asking about how I was doing. I’ll see you around,” she moves to turn away, but he just pulls her into a short hug.

“No matter what happens, please don’t stop being our friend,” he whispers.

She nods her head, separating herself from the boy before the remainder of her heart shatters. She gets into her car and sets off for Buffalo.

The long drive was cathartic as she belted out lyrics to Taylor Swift- even through all her tears. She also got a ton of fresh air that she desperately needed.

It’s dark when she makes it to where she was going. The person she was trying to see wasn’t even home, so she spent a couple hours outside their front door. Dallas is sure she got a ton of concerned- even judging looks as she accidentally fell asleep with tears dried on her cheeks.

“Dallas?”

The girl startles out of her nap, immediately jumping up when she sees Owen. Owen Power, one of her favorite people. She collapses into his arms, her tears falling once again.

“What happened? Are you okay? Does anyone know you’re here?” He holds her tight.

“Blanks knows I’m here. I broke up with my boyfriend and I just needed to leave because I see and feel him everywhere,” she explains, the shattered pieces of her heart piercing through her skin.

“Let’s get you inside. You probably need some sleep especially after the long drive.”

After some much needed food and a shower, Dallas finally explains everything to Owen. He’s less than impressed, but he’s really good at comforting her.

“I don’t know. I just feel like this whole week I’ve been acting like some crazy girlfriend. Do you think I’m crazy for feeling and acting this way?”

“No, you’re valid. Except for the whole Halloween and Valentine’s thing, that’s not too big of a deal. He was just trying to make you happy. Now, him telling that girl you’re insecure and saying that you don’t love him was out of line. I’m sorry that you went through that, but I am glad I get to see you,” he tells her, bringing her in for another hug.

“Thank you for understanding. I’m happy to see you, too. Now, I need at least 12 hours of sleep, so goodnight. Will you be here tomorrow morning?”

“Yeah. I’ll make you breakfast.”

As Dallas falls asleep that night, Nick is beating himself up as he reads Dallas’ letter. The once neat paper is littered with tear drops.

SATURDAY

Nick is breaking many traffic laws just to get to Buffalo. It took Rutger telling him that she was leaving and a million apologies to Blanks to find out where she was. He was ready to lay his heart on the line, or in her palms.

Nick doesn’t know she’s staying with Owen, he just knows where she is. When he knocks on the door, he’s surprised to see a very tall man with long hair.

“Nick.” Owen knows him from Dallas’ instagram.

Nick recognizes the other hockey player, but that doesn’t stop him from pretending otherwise.

“Um, who are you?” Nick puffs out his chest, trying to disguise his true reaction. Owen is very large and intimidating as he crosses his arms over his chest.

“Owen Power, a good friend of Dallas.” Owen looks down on Nick, a testing expression painting his features.

“Is Dallas here? Can I talk to her?”

“I don’t know. Can you, or will you just go talk to Inez?” Nick looks taken aback at his remark.

So much for a great first impression.

“What are you doing here?” Dallas asks, moving Owen out of the way.

“I need to talk to you. Please, Dallas you have to let me explain everything,” he begs.

Dallas groans, her hands going through her hair as she moves aside for him to enter.

“What could you possibly say to me?”

“I know you’re upset that I just told you about how I lost my virginity to Inez, but it didn’t mean anything and she doesn’t mean anything to me,” he swears.

“You made me seem like I was crazy for feeling insecure! You had sex with her and I know that was long ago, but you’re with me, but still had her come visit you,” she responds.

“I didn’t know she was coming! Do you think if I knew, I would let it happen, or at least not tell you about our past?” He questions.

“You still let her stay! That’s the difference. If she didn’t mean a thing to you, why did you let her stay? If I had lost my virginity to Owen and had you meet him because he’s my close friend, you would go ballistic. If roles were reversed, you’d be just as jealous and just as upset!” She shouts.

“Speaking of Owen, why would you tell him our business? Sure seems like he’s your best friend when you said I was yours” Nick scoffs, jealousy creeping up on him.

“No! No, you can’t get jealous not right now. See! This is what I mean! You can get jealous all you want, but the moment I do, it’s wrong. Screw your double standards!”

“I was the one who was insecure. I have been asking you to marry me for weeks and you still wouldn’t give me an answer. Next thing I know, you’re introducing yourself as my fiancée. I felt like the prospect of our marriage wasn’t important to you, like you were just playing with my feelings to see how far you could go before I blew up. I fucked up so badly because I thought you wouldn’t want to marry me at all. If you had eventually said no, our relationship would be ruined. I’m sorry, Dallas. I’m sorry for making it seem like she’s my best friend. I’m sorry for keeping things from you, and saying that you don’t love me. I’m sorry for everything and I just needed to tell you that,” he says, watching as she cries.

“Here’s your ring, I forgot to put it in the box,” she says, barely loud enough for him to hear.

He immediately shakes his head, knowing that if he takes back the ring everything will really be over.

“I can’t take that back. It’s yours. It belongs to you,” he tries to say it with conviction, but his voice cracks and his tears start to fall.

“I can’t have it either,” she pulls the ring off, forcing it into his hands.

His shoulders are shaking and his lip wobbles. Nick wants to hold her in his arms, but he knows she’ll push him away.

Dallas wants to reach out to him as he walks away, but she fears it’s too late to take back everything she’s said and done.

“Nick?” She calls his name and watches the way he turns around within that second.

“Yeah?” His voice is unsure. He watches the looks she gives him. Her eyes are filled with want. She wants that connection.

He quickly walks back to her, pulling her into his arms.

“Why can’t you fight for me?” She questions, hurt laced in her voice. Her hands connect around his neck and he can feel her chest heave.

“I have been fighting. Not hard enough, but because you won’t let me fight for you,” he answers, hands rubbing her back.

“Fight for me, please,” she begs, her way of saying she’ll listen to what he has to say.

“I swear I didn’t mean to hurt you. I hadn’t talked to Inez since before I graduated high school, so her coming to visit was just as much a surprise to me as it was to you. I’m sorry for being an asshole and telling Inez that you were insecure. That wasn’t my place and that wasn’t her business. I should’ve made sure that you were secure in our relationship, because that’s my job as your boyfriend.”

“Fiancé,” Dallas corrects him.

“Yes, your fiancé. I know you love me with all your heart, sorry for ever doubting that. Inez is not my best friend and she’s not even really a friend. Not anymore. I told her she couldn’t be in my life, because if she stayed, I knew you wouldn’t and I once told you that I can’t live without you. That stands true. I want you even if that means giving up everything else. I’m sorry, June. I’m so sorry for being so careless with us,” he apologizes, his tears falling into her hair.

“I accept your apology. I’m sorry for being so emotional,” she says against the skin of his cheek as she softly kisses his face.

“You have every right to feel angry, sad, or hurt. I was truly an asshole,” he states.

“I’m so sorry for slapping you, Nick. I hate myself for putting my hands on you like that. I swear I will never do that again,” she sobs into his chest, that guilt finally breaking her down.

“I deserved it.”

“No, you didn’t. I saw how much that hurt you, emotionally,” she whispers.

“I love you, pretty girl.”

“I love you, always.”

Dallas pulls away, taking in the boy she loves so much. His hair is messy and his face is red from his tears.

“June bug, I want you in my life forever. I don’t care how young we are, or what people think, because I know that our love is enough in this lifetime and the next one. We will always find our way to each other. Will you please marry me?” He pulls out the ring from his pocket and kneels on one knee.

“Yes! Yes in this lifetime and yes in the next. I love you, Nick,” she answers, jumping into his arms and kissing his lips for the first time in what felt like forever.

a/n: I absolutely loved writing this and I hope y’all enjoy it! The title is a little combination of “All American Bitch” and “Lacy” by Olivia Rodrigo as I feel those two songs resemble what Dallas was going through. It also references the lace of the dress Dallas thrifted, beautiful but also delicate.

#nick moldenhauer #nick moldenhauer x oc #nick moldenhauer x reader #nick x dallas #umich imagine #umich hockey #so it goes au

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diorsluv · 2 months

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die for you masterlist

( diorsluv 2024 )

[ON HOLD!]

— social media, irl faceclaim ; lola tung

nhl + ntdp!2018 x platonic!figureskater!reader,

robertson brothers x fem!cousin!reader,

trevor zegras x fem!fwb!reader

other tags will be revealed once the complete series is done!

prologue

part 1: ( swear i couldn’t sleep a wink last night )

act i

part 2: ( no point in turning off the lights )

part 3: ( not the same without your head on my shoulders )

part 4: ( growing pains but i don’t wanna get older )

part 5: ( almost like we left it all on read )

part 6: ( couple feelings never laid to rest )

part 7: ( didn’t know that the party was over )

part 8: ( and it’s true that i need you here closer )

acts ii, iii, iv, and epilogue coming soon!

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jaidens · 7 months

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LOVING HIM WAS RED.

REQUEST PAGE FOR : EPISODE : RED - TAYLOR SWIFT. [ 9 | 22 | 23 — 10 | 6 | 23 ]

RULES FOR REQUESTING —

i am not taking any smut requests at this moment; your request can only be under these circumstances.

• fluff : cuddling, kissing, and ‘sleeping together’ are underneath this category!

• angst : break-ups, arguments, and other upsetting topics are underneath this category!

REQUESTS !

Side A

1. State Of Grace (Taylor's Version)

2. Red (Taylor's Version) [SAM WINCHESTER.]

3. Treacherous (Taylor's Version)

4. I Knew You Were Trouble (Taylor's Version)

Side B

1. All Too Well (Taylor's Version)

2. 22 (Taylor's Version)

3. I Almost Do (Taylor's Version)

4. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together (Taylor's Version)

Side A

1. Stay Stay Stay (Taylor's Version)

2. The Last Time (Taylor's Version)

3. Holy Ground (Taylor's Version)

4. Sad Beautiful Tragic (Taylor's Version)

Side B

1. The Lucky One (Taylor's Version)

2. Everything Has Changed (Taylor's Version)

3. Starlight (Taylor's Version)

4. Begin Again (Taylor's Version)

Side A

1. The Moment I Knew (Taylor's Version)

2. Come Back...Be Here (Taylor's Version)

3. Girl At Home (Taylor's Version)

4. State Of Grace (Acoustic Version) (Taylor's Version)

Side B

1. Better Man (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

2. Nothing New (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

3. Babe (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

Side A

1. Message In A Bottle (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

2. I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

3. Forever Winter (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

4. Run (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

Side B

1. The Very First Night (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

2. All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)

FOR THE [ 2 WEEKS ] THIS REQUESTING PAGE IS OPEN, MY INBOX IS OPEN.

AFTER THESE TWO WEEKS [ OCTOBER SEVENTH OF TWENTY TWENTY-THREE ] THE PAGE WILL BE : FOLKLORE + EVERMORE!

🧣 — i bet you think about me !

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americanjacketstore2 · 4 months

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Top Gun Maverick 2 MA-1 Jacket

BUY NOW

Stay a current personality with the help of a classy Top Gun Maverick 2 MA-1 Jacket. This is a perfect opportunity that should never be missed. Buy it right now!

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toasttt11 · 2 months

Note

Do you happen to have any blog recommendations?

YESS!! i have way to many recommendations!

@faithshouseofchaos one of the first blogs i ever read on here! amazing f1 and hockey stories, does a lot of supernatural in her stories!!

@bedsyandco her au’s are so goooooood and she has amazing ideas i swear she always is coming up with something new!

@sunflower-lilac42 love love love love all of her stories and au’s! definitely one of my favorites to reads!!

@luke-hughes43 one of my favorite blogs ever!! i adore her stella and luke au! and bella and ethan au! jsut read everything she has posted!

@sc0tters amazingggg au’s and stores, i swear she gets me so attached to her characters! literally love everything on this page!

@sweetestdesire the sweetest writer ever!! either writing the sweetest or really smutty stories, definitely recommend!

@chelawrites one of my favorites as well! i love her formula one stories!

@hischier-papaya i adore her blog, she’s an absolutely amazing writer and has such an incredible brain i swear she is always coming up with new ideas!

@hockybish one of my favorite writers for au’s! i absolutely adore her au’s and i love all of the characters so much!

@prettyboywoll Ahh one of my favorite writers! makes amazing au’s and if you ever wondered what it’s like to have a certain hockey player be your boyfriend she’s written many for many players!!

@burreaux-drys i loveeee her works but her au’s with ethan and rutger and one with trevor and jamie, they are so good!

@wintfleur i adore her au for stella hughes!! stella is written so well and she’s so sweet! writes for hockey and formula one!

@generalllimaginesss love everything she has written!! has so many au’s/series that are so well written!

@uglyducklingofthe2000s one of my absolute favorite formula one writers! writes for so many of the drivers!

@whatsaninterestingplacethisis definitely an amazing writer and i alway enjoy reading the stories!!!

@equallyshaw such an amazing writer, always writing the softest or the sadest stuff i swear!! really great au’s!

@quintinh43 i’ve adored reading eveything she’s posted and is an amazing writer!

@diorsluv her series i swear is such a funny and enjoyable read, i die laughing everytime i read her work!

@corrodedcoffins-blog one of my favorites again!!! but really an amazing blog and has some very fun au’s that i recommend!

@chewingcyanide some of my favorites stories are on this blog! i definitely suggest her jack series, it’s amazing and a roller coaster of an emotions

@angelicsoka love love love everything on this blog! such amazing work that i’ve read on the blog!!!!

@babydollmarauders one of my favorite writers to read! absolutely amazing stories and au’s, also a major plus she is a major john and jack stan :)

@thatintrovertedwriter i swear luke hughes number one fan, so if you want anything luke please go to her :) but like all of her stories and au’s are incredible so read them all!

@starry-hughes one of my favorite blogs! really has a incredible writing styles and i always enjoying reading anything from her!

@slafkovskys really writes incredible pieces! my favorite is always the angel x hughes bros so like definitely read that and all of her other au’s and works!

@sunkissed-zegras i adore reading anything from the blog, just adore everything i’ve read from her!

@fiapartridge i love everything on this blog too! but her au’s are amazing and she has a macklin au!!!!!

@thewintersoldierdisaster i love that she writes for some hockey players that aren’t always on this app a lot!!

@goldielia i adore her will au!! like you need to read it immediately!

@luke-hughes43 love everything from her! i love her au’s and ami am obsessed with nico and blake

@theemporium i LOVE this blog so much! formula one and hockey content, has written some of my favorites!

@drewsbuzzcut writes some amazing works especially her series!! i love dallas and nick!

@mclarengremlin definitely check out his golden son series! it’s amazing and i’ve definitely reread it so many times!

@lennysfridge you want a hockey au go to her page! i swear i’ve binged read all of her au’s many times!

@valluvsu i loved her top gun stories!! and i just love her whole blog!

@eleutherafairy she has written some of my favorite hughes stories ever!!!! definitely check out her blog :)

@itsnotgray i love love love her blog!!!!! definitely one of my favorites and i adore her fantilli sister au!!!

is this enough recommendations? let me know love!

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sunflower-lilac42 · 4 months

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✧ 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞 | connor bedard ♔

summary: y/n surprises her boyfriend at his first game where he scores an overtime winner

warnings: surprises

notes: connor! connor! connor! that goal was so amazing last night, my dad and i were lowkey freaking out about it and his post game interview omg. i love him so much. fuck everyone who hates chicgao because no matter what we stay loyal to our teams even if they do all suck. it was nice to take a break from writing fics about songs but I kinda miss it but I think I'm still gonna do a few without songs or at least ones for the nhl x ts. let me know what you guys want to see next!

nhl masterlist | main masterlist

Y/n sat anxiously in her seat, biting her nails and her leg bouncing as she watched the game. This wasn’t the first overtime that Connor had been a part of, it also wasn’t the second. The Hawks had been to overtime 4 times, including tonight, in the whole season, losing only one. Yet, this was the first time she was present for one, well actually any game.

Being at school it was hard to form and support her boyfriend but with the break being here she finally came to watch him. He didn’t know, which made this all the more exciting for her.

Janelle sat next to her, just as anxious as the girl, as Milana cheered for her dad. They watched and moved their eyes simultaneously for three minutes until they stopped in the Hawks’ zone.

Tito skated to center ice before swinging back around and passing the puck to Lukas. Lukas waited patiently until his teammate was near and swiftly passed it to Connor.

Y/n prayed silently as he took the puck, easily skating through guys down the ice, getting close enough on the Jets’ side, shooting it, and making it into the goal.

Janelle and y/n stood up cheering, the younger of the two naturally being more excited. She clapped as everyone surrounded the rookie and she held a smile on her face.

Watching his interview she couldn’t help but tear up a little because just earlier Connor had called her and talked about how he felt he wasn’t contributing much to the team. They had known each other for so long and she always stood by him so being here, knowing that he just proved his own words wrong, felt great to her.

Janelle took her daughter and y/n outside as the girl felt she was suffocating from the number of people that were still in the UC. They waited for their partners to come out, making small talk about how school was going.

They could hear the slight chatter from behind them, turning around to see the team slowly start to file out of the arena. Tito walked out with Murphy and Seth, noticing the two standing there, “They’ll be out soon.”

They both nodded and expressed their gratitude watching them walk off. It wasn’t long before Nick was walking out with Connor, talking about something that was probably hockey-related. Nick looked up and saw his wife and y/n standing there, stopping and nudging the boy, “Hey.”

Connor looked up from his phone looking at his teammate, “What?”

He gestured to his right and Connor looked that way, “Oh my-”

He wasted no time in dropping his bag and running to his girlfriend, easily picking her up and swinging her around. She let out a loud laugh, wrapping her arms around him, hitting him so she could be put down, “Put me down, psycho.”

Connor placed her down and leaned his forehead against her own, “I can’t believe you’re here.”

Nick took his family off to the side to let the two teenagers have their moment. Y/n placed her hands on Connor’s cheek, holding his face, “I’m so proud of you.”

Connor blushed and stayed silently, not knowing what to say. She gave him a look, “Connor, come on. Be proud of yourself.”

He nodded, “I am. But I’m also still in shock that you’re here.” She kissed him and he kissed back, “Best believe it Con because I’m here and I’m coming on your roadie with you.”

“No fucking way.”

“Yes way, school is closed for another week so, my family and I decided to fly down to Dallas and then I think my friends and I will go out East with you.” Connor couldn’t stop bouncing on his feet, even pulling away to jump.

Nick and Janelle walked over, Milana following excitedly behind them, “You guys want to go out to celebrate.” Y/n nodded her head enthusiastically and the five of them headed off to go out for dinner.

𝑻𝑨𝑮𝑳𝑰𝑺𝑻 ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

if your name is crossed out it means i couldn't tag you

#sunny lune writes #connor bedard #connor bedard x reader #cb98 #hockey #nhl #chicago blackhawks #nhl blackhawks

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thefallennightmare · 7 months

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Miracle-four

Pairings: Noah Sebastian x Reader

Warnings/Tropes: forced proximity, slight enemies to lovers, slow burn, smut, angst, fluff, mentions of death, and swearing.

Summary: Reader is the merch girl for Bad Omens. It wasn't what she wanted to do with her life but when her mother got sick with Alzheimer's, reader took a job where she could to help with the costs. She thought it would be a one-time gig but the longer she was on the road with them, the harder she fell for Noah Sebastian; even if he wanted nothing to do with her. She needed a miracle to save her mom and her future.

Author Note: I wanted this to be a slow burn/enemies to lovers but god damn it's so hard to write because I already want Reader and Noah to get together.

Tags: @ada-clarence @nonamessblog @thescarlettvvitch @malice-ov-mercy @crimson-calligraphyx @theoneandonlykymberlee @yumikitten @blackveilomens @cherrymedicine13 @thebadchic @notmaddihealy @jay02bo @beaker1636 @jakekiszkasguitarpick @punk-pr1ncessxoxo

With a loud sigh, I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and walked towards to front end of the bus. On this bus, I shared it with Davis, Matt, and Bryan, and sometimes one guy from the band would pop in every once in a while: except Noah. At least if he did, it was when I was asleep or not around. Especially lately, Noah and I avoided each other. After the disaster of a dinner a couple nights ago, I refused to speak to him even about work. I went to everyone else instead of him if I had a question, which I didn't often since I knew what I was doing.

I didn't want to think about Noah right now. Not when my mind should only think about my mom.

Lana told me that even though my mom was having a lot of good days, she still refused to speak to me. I'd be lying if I said my heart didn't break but I couldn't cry about it. I needed to focus for work and not give anyone a reason to figure out something was wrong.

We were close to the next city, less than an hour away, and we would hang out in Dallas for two days before heading out once more. Matt mentioned he had a surprise for everyone so called for a bus meeting which is where I found everyone with two surprise visitors.

Folio and Noah.

Giving a small smile to the former, I sat next to him at the table and he returned a smile. Noah was sitting on the long couch of the bus, chatting quietly with Bryan. They must have joined when we stopped last and I was asleep.

Noah's eyes burned hot at the side of my face but I ignored him as I bumped shoulders with Folio. We had been texting a bit the last couple days and have gotten pretty close; no romantic feelings involved. Folio had been a great friend and someone to vent too. I never told him about my mom, though. That was something I would take to the grave.

"Where's Jolly and Nick?" I asked.

"They stayed on our bus. They wanted the peace to sleep."

I nodded before pointing to Matt, who was standing at the front of the bus rubbing his hands together. "Any idea what this is about?"

"No fucking idea," Folio chuckled.

With my phone buzzing in my hand, I dared a peak at the notification to see another subscriber to my Only Fan's page. I didn't have many followers but enough to keep some money coming in. I could pay Lana her first paycheck and the extra income coming in was nice. I wasn't rolling in money but wasn't struggling on how to pay for things. With being constantly surrounded by the guys, I wasn't able to post much, just one other video and a few provocative pictures. I never showed my face, only from the neck down and never naked. I always had some short of clothes or underwear or an arm covering the private areas. Maybe that was the reason I had little subscribers, but it was the rules I set for myself when I started this.

"So, I bet you're all wondering why I called this meeting," Matt spoke while clapping his hands.

Folio muttered a joke to me under his breath which earned a loud laugh from me. Everyone looked our way, and I leaned back into the booth cheeks on fire.

"What's so funny?" Matt quirked a brow.

Noah's eyes pinned me to my spot as I glanced over to him. Something flashed behind those brown iris' while his jaw ticked.

"Nothing, Mr. Dierkes. Please continue with class," Folio joked with a smirk.

I had to bite my lip so I wouldn't laugh again.

"As I was saying," Matt began ignoring Folio. "It's been a week on tour and we've all been working tirelessly to make sure every show fucking rules. But there has been some tension within the group."

"I don't think you feel the same tension as some of us do," Noah said with his eyes on me.

Our eyes matched with intensity, and I let out a deep breath wondering what he meant by that.

Tension? Of course, there was tension between us but that's because we disliked each other.

Folio noticed I was ready to speak, so he pinched the bare skin of my shoulder which caused me to yelp out in slight pain.

"What the fuck was that for?" I seethed.

He nodded towards Matt to continue on, who looked displeased at being interrupted by our antics yet again.

In our days of texting, I told Folio about how it irritates me how Noah acts around me when we're alone versus when others are around. I also may have told him about my tiny feelings for Noah, which Folio told me it was pretty clear how I felt. While I thought no one noticed, Folio saw the stolen glances, the way my body reacted differently when Noah was around, or the way the corner of my lips curled up when Noah spoke or sang.

Always so perceptive.

I tried to get out of him why Noah was so upset about that night in Chicago but Folio refused. He said that was Noah's secret to share.

I tasted blood with how hard I bit my tongue and reluctantly gave Matt my attention.

"Since we'll be in Dallas for a few days, I rented an Airbnb for us to stay at as a way for us to bond or whatever the fuck. There's a pool and grill we can have a pool day on our off day," Matt said with a smile.

My heart sunk deep into the pits of my stomach. At least when we stayed in hotels, I had my room, sometimes doors down from Noah. But now, all of us staying in a house means it would be harder to avoid him.

"Is that necessary?" I questioned.

"Yes," Matt deadpanned. "If you want a hotel, book it on your personal card."

Low blow.

"Whatever," I grumbled while crossing my arms.

He simply gave me a large smirk before speaking again. "The only issue is that there aren't enough beds so some people will have to bunk together or sleep on the couch."

"You've got to be kidding me," I muttered while running a hand down my face.

I didn't care the house situation, I would sleep on the floor if I had too if that meant I wouldn't share a bed with anyone, especially Noah. I liked these guys but not that much.

Folio patted my shoulder and whispered low in my ear.

"Maybe you and Noah should bunk together. Team bonding or whatever."

"Fuck off, Folio," I playfully smacked his chest before rising to my feet, his arm falling away from me. Noah was still staring at me and I knew with how close Folio and I had been, he wasn't happy. His jaw clenched so tight, and his hands balled into fists in his lap.

I didn't bother giving him another glance as I turned my back to him to retreat into my bunk to mentally prepare for this team bonding bullshit Matt set up.

Okay, I had to admit. This house was fucking sick.

There were large floor to ceiling windows that looked out onto a beautiful backyard and if you looked past that, you could see the city down below the hill the house was on. It was a large open floor plan with a living room, kitchen, and bar with a pool table off of the dinning room. Upstairs was an open loft area with a large sectional couch and four bedrooms.

While I was in my bunk on the bus, the room situation had been decided by drawing matching straws. No one bothered to ask for me to draw because somehow by the Gods below, Noah was the last to pick and was only left with the color red.

Jolly and Nick.

Bryan and Davis.

Matt and Folio.

Noah and I.

When Folio told me the sleeping arrangements, I wanted to cry in anger. It seemed as if no matter how hard I tried to avoid Noah, something yanked us back together. Folio offered to swap with me but I declined, already deciding that I would sleep on whatever couch was provided.

A warm presence encased around me, making the hairs on my arm prick, and I peered up to my left seeing Noah standing next to me in the house's entryway.

"You can have the bed. I'll sleep on the couch," he said.

I blinked, somewhat surprised that he offered that. I fully expected him to lock me out of the room.

"I'm smaller than you. It might be better for you to sleep on the bed," I offered.

Was I being nice?

My body shivered at the thought.

Noah shook his head then hoisted his back over his shoulder. "Take the room, angel. You're the only girl here. You should have some privacy."

Was he being nice now in front of the others? They all stood less than a few feet from us.

Did I wake up in the twilight zone?

When I went to protest yet again, he shot me a look that caused my lips to pull tight together. We stood in silence for a few moments and I let out a soft breath.

"Thank you."

Noah made a noise in his throat and his eyes glittered as they darted between mine. His large hand brushed away hair from my face and I leaned into his touch, all the pent up anger between us melting away.

The question weighed heavy on my tongue as I pursed my lips a few times.

"Why do you call me angel?" I finally croaked out.

His hand was now wrapped around the back of my neck, the pads of his finger pressing deep into the skin, and shrugged.

"It feels right."

I raised a brow. "What if I don't like it?"

"Too bad. It stays, angel," he dragged out the last word with a large grin.

Irritation flared inside of me but before I could say anything, the warmth around my neck was gone as Noah walked away. I blinked after him, watching as he tossed his bag onto the couch before stepping outside into the large backyard.

"Soundcheck is in one hour!" Matt called out, his voice carrying through the open space.

With that, I forced my feet to take me upstairs to the bedrooms so I could get ready. The only room left was the closet one to the stairs and directly across the long sectional couch. If Noah would sleep here tonight, he'd be able to look right into my room and see me laying in bed. The thought made something ignite in my stomach but I ignored it.

This was the only room with a bathroom attached which made me wonder if the guys purposely gave me this room. As I placed my things throughout the room since we were going to be here for a few days, my phone rang loudly from its spot on the bed as I was in the bathroom and rushed to answer it in time.

"Hello?" I asked breathless

"Hi dear. How're things?"

I smiled into the phone at Lana. "Good. I'm going to be heading to the venue soon to set up. Everything alright?"

"Well," Lana started.

My ass fell into the bed with a groan and prepared myself for what was about to come.

"What happened?"

"Your neighbors found your mother in their bathroom this morning; in their shower."

I pinched my eyes shut with a groan. "Please tell me it was the Johnson's. They know what's going on with her so they would understand. Well, as much as I hoped they would."

"Yes, thankfully. I was able to bring her back home without incidents."

"Good," I let out a long breath. "How is she now?"

"She's fine, in her room resting but-."

"I don't like the sound of that but," I noted.

"Y/N, I know you love your mother and want the upmost best care possible for her."

I nodded. "But."

"But I think your mother would be better in a home where someone can watch and monitor her twenty-four hours of the day. I can only do so much especially when she takes off."

I swallowed the lump in my throat, not wanting to cry. This conversation was one I knew I was bound to have at some point. My mothers Alzheimers was getting progressively worse and soon, I feared there might be a time where I couldn't handle it.

But now wasn't that time.

"I'll think about it," I said after a few beats.

It wasn't a lie, per se. I would think about it, way down the road.

"I'll see if she wants to talk," Lana said.

"No, it's alright. I don't want to bother her."

I couldn't stop the sob that escaped my lips.

"Alright dear. I'll call you tomorrow."

After we said our goodbyes, I let my phone clatter to the floor at my feet then plopped down onto the bed. Tears pricked at my eyes and I dug my palms into them, hoping it would force the tears away. My mom was the most important person in my life. We were all each other had after my father died, so being so far away from her when she needed me the most made the guilt rip me apart.

Was this job worth it? Was the money worth it?

These questions kept replaying in my mine over and over as I laid on the bed staring up at the ceiling. A few tears escaped drying to my warm cheeks. The money was worth it; it had to be. I still wasn't making a lot of money from Only Fans so whatever I made doing this, I needed.

There was a soft knock on my open door and my breath hitched when I noticed Noah leaning against it. How long had he'd been there? Did he hear my conversation with Lana?

I sat up in bed while covertly drying my eyes.

"The manager at the venue said the set up for merch has to be in the hallway downstairs. Is that alright?"

I shrugged. "Yeah, I've been put in weirder places so it's fine."

Noah gave a curt nod while crossing his arms over his chest. I suddenly felt small under his eyes and rose to my feet hoping that watching me gather my things to get ready it would be a silent dismissal. But no, he continued to watch every single movement I made.

"Is there anything else you need, Noah?" I asked with a sigh, finally looking at him.

His black shirt clung to the thick muscles of his arms and chest. His brown hair had fallen into his face in a tousled mess from being on the tour bus the majority of the day.

Noah was breathtaking in every single way, and my core practically begged for some kind of friction.

Not now, traitor.

"Have I mentioned how much I love hearing my name coming from your pretty little mouth?," he mused while licking his own.

My legs squeezed together, my body screaming with that small release against my core, but I refused to let him know how bad he was affecting me.

"Is that it?" I asked.

Noah said nothing as he walked over to my open suitcase and riffled through it, obviously looking for something.

"What are you doing?"

My heart raced as I watched him, knowing that if he picked up that red t-shirt, he would find the variety of sex toys I use for my videos. What he found, though, was something I hadn't expected him to. An old shirt of his that I borrowed from the last tour. It was the second night and Bad Omens played a sold-out show. The crowd was alive the entire night and every one of us was buzzing with excitement. Once we returned to the hotel that night, we all jumped into the outdoor pool even though it was pretty chilly that night. Noah offered his dry shirt to me so I could warm up which at the time I took gratefully.

That night was before the night in Chicago. Before Noah's attitude toward me changed.

It got buried along with my other things after the last tour and forgotten about.

Bullshit.

I may have worn it to bed some nights; so much so that his scent had faded while ago.

Noah tossed the shirt over to me and I caught it just before it hit me in my face. My lips stuttered trying to come up with an excuse because I still had it.

"Wear that."

"Excuse me? I asked irritation lacing my words. "Since when do I take orders from you on what I wear?"

He closed the distance between us in two large steps, his fingers tilting my chin up towards his face. Our lips were so close, I could almost taste the beer he must have had before coming into my room. And the hint of bourbon and spice from his cologne filled my senses.

So warm and familiar.

"There's a reason you kept it, angel. Might as well wear it."

Noah's voice was dark and heavy, laced with something I could pinpoint. His eyes were just as dark as his words and I swallowed hard. My body flared with desire, heat pooling between my legs, and I let out a breathless whine eventually nodding.

"Good girl," he breathed across my lips.

His eyes darted from mine down to my lips where it stayed for a long moment before he dropped his hand from my face then left me standing in the room with a heavy wetness and an ache between my legs.

#noah sebastian #noah sebastian and reader #noah sebastian x reader #noah sebastian reader insert #noah sebastian smut #forced proximity #enemies to lovers #slow burn

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sukiipjs · 3 months

Text

⋆ʚ INTRO ɞ⋆

i’m reese or luca !! i’m newish (to tumblr/writing) so here’s some about me !!

he/him - gay - i’m trans ftm - (although i’m gay + trans i do write for all genders/sexualitys)

MASTERLIST

SONGS 4 FICS

TAGLIST

matt, chris, nick i will and can NOT choose, like how can i 😭 (okay maybe i’m a little more of a nick boy) LMAO.

i’ve been a fan of the triplets for maybe since 2022?? i also love sinjin drowning and gmm. i love writing and reading, drawing, music. i listen to mostly everything except k-pop i’ll be honest, some of my favorite artists : lana del rey, lil peep, the smiths, grimes, kendrick lamar, melanie martinez, mitski, dixon dallas (yes him), laufey, d4vd, fiona apple, current joys, etc. and some of my favorite books : brokeback mountain, cmbyn, my dark vanessa, freshwater, beautiful boy, any james baldwin book, etc. (giovannis room??? another country??? i love his work, best author hand down) you can also ask abt me idk what to add honestly

wanted to share my writing here and make some more !! i don’t mind requests, i DO write smut (including nick)🤞(when requesting, pls put the general idea and specify if you want it smut or not, or what genre wtv, etc!! + i do apologize if it takes a while to get posted but trust i will do it!)

i’ll write a lot but things i won’t do -

- nick x fem reader

- incest

- rape / sa

- chris / matt x masc reader

- inappropriate age gaps

(i’m not sure what eeeelse but yeah !!)

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thewulf · 1 year

Text

Works and Requests

Oh man I knew this day would come, I finally have to make seprate masterlists for some fandoms, this main post is too massive now! Masterlist's below the cut <3

If you'd like to be added to any or all works please fill out the form here: Taglist Sign Up

Fluff: ✿‎ ‎

Angst: ✦‎

Hurt/Comfort: ‎♡

Top Gun Masterlist

Criminal Minds Masterlist

The Lord of the Rings Masterlist

Harry Potter Masterlist

Outer Banks

JJ Maybank

Accidentally in Love ‎♡✿‎ ‎

Always & Forever Part 1 | Part 2 ♡✿‎ ‎

Here For You ‎♡✿‎

Tides of Comfort✿‎

Rafe Cameron

Who Did This To You? Part 1 | Part 2 ♡✿‎

The Last of Us

Joel Miller

Big Blue World✿✦‎

Terrible Liar✿✦‎

Whatever The Hell This Is✿✦‎

Interesting✿✦‎

The Outsiders

Darrel "Darry" Curtis

I Want To✿✦

By Your Side♡✿

Sunflowers and Second Chances♡✿

Dallas "Dally" Winston

Don't Cry✿✦

Troublemaker✿✦

A Safe Place♡✿

Second Sunrise♡✿

Steve Randle

Peachy Girl♡✿

Stranger Things

Steve Harrington

Adorably Clueless ✿‎

That Was the Moment ♡✿

Treat You Better✿✦

Twilight

Paul Lahote

Forever Yours♡✿‎

Call of Duty: MW2/3

Johnny "Soap" MacTavish

Lassie♡✿‎

Captain John Price

The Price of Protection♡✿‎

Avatar Way of Water

Neteyam Sully

Different | Part 1 | Part 2 ✿‎ ‎

Marvel

James "Bucky" Barnes

At Odds ✿✦‎

Celebrities

Miles Teller

Thank You Kind Stranger ✿‎

Works In Progress (WIP's)!

JJ Maybank x Sister Reader - Request!

Who I Write For:

Top Gun: Maverick & 1986

Jake "Hangman" Seresin

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw

Bob Floyd

Pete "Maverick" Mitchell

Nick "Goose" Bradshaw

Tom "Iceman" Kazansky

Any other pilot upon request!

Harry Potter

The Marauders Era

Sirius Black

James Potter

Remus Lupin

Golden Trio Era

Harry Potter

Ron Weasley

Fred Weasley

George Weasley

Twilight

Paul Lahote

Jacob Black

Sam Uley

Embry Call

Quill Ateara

Edward Cullen

Emmet Cullen

Carlisle Cullen

Jasper Hale

The Outsiders

Darrel “Darry” Curtis

Sodapop "Soda" Curtis

Ponyboy "Pony" Curtis

Dallas "Dally" Winston

Steve Randall

Keith “Two-Bit” Matthews

Criminal Minds

Aaron Hotchner

Derek Morgan

Spencer Reid

Outer Banks

JJ Myabank

John B Routledge

Pope Heyward

Topper Thorton

Rafe Cameron

Marvel

Peter Parker

Bucky Barnes

Steve Rogers

Tony Stark

Loki

Avatar

Neteyam Sully

Lo'ak Sully

Jake Sully

Ao'nung

The Last of Us

Joel Miller

Tommy Miller

Ellie Williams

The Lord of the Rings

Legolas

Aragorn

King Thranduil

Call of Duty: MW2/3

Simon "Ghost" Riley

Johnny "Soap" MacTavish

Captain Price

Kyle "Gaz" Garrick

Any other upon request!

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boltupbitches · 1 year

Note

Being a kecle and dating nick bosa and having both brother give her the silent treatment or they blow up on her till. nick goes and talks to them like after each time he's played them so he wouldn't even talk to Jason til the championship game

Welcome to the Family - Nick Bosa x kelce!sister

(sibling cold shoulder stuff; SFW)

His girlfriend didn't make the trip to Philadelphia to see him play against Eagles. She was back at their home in Santa Clara, nursing a bad cold and holing herself up in guest bedroom away from Nick to prevent him catching her cold during the playoffs.

Nick thought it was ridiculous. She was very sick at first, causing him to consider not even playing in the Dallas game until she chewed him out for it. He was worried about her and the cold she caught, but couldn't seem to shake off.

He was moments away from contacting Mrs. Kelce when his girlfriend finally let up and allowed him to come in the room if he promised to keep a distance and didn't try to kiss her.

Now, she was feeling much better and he was relieved about that, but he was still worried about her. Thankfully one of his teammate's girlfriends, who didn't make the trip either for personal reasons, stopped in to check on her.

He was now in the middle of chatting to his mom and brother before it was time to head out of the hotel when he heard a woman's voice call his name.

He turned around to see the warm, smiling face of Donna Kelce staring back at him.

He was surprised at the sight of her before smiling and accepting the hug she offered him. "Hi, Mrs. Kelce! Great to see you."

She chuckled and chided him, "Now Nick, we spoke about this the last time you saw me. You can call me Donna."

Nick turned and looked to his mother and brother who were watching on curiously. "Mrs. Kelce - Donna, this is my mother, Cheryl Bosa, and my older brother, Joey. Guys this is Donna Kelce. Angie's mom."

Both parties greeted each other warmly, Nick's mom complimenting the split jersey Mrs Kelce was wearing in support of both of her son's playing today.

"I spoke with Angie on the phone a bit ago. I had no idea she was sick!"

Nick nodded and sighed, "Yeah she's been stubborn about it all. She kept herself locked in the guest bedroom the last two weeks, but finally let up about it this past week and let me in to take care of her. She thinks she picked it up at work since it's going around."

Mrs. Kelce nodded, knowing just how stubborn her youngest child was. "Yes, that's definitely something she has in common with Travis. Well - Jason too. They're all stubborn brats at times." She joked.

Nick nodded, saying nothing to the last part, but agreeing whole-heartedly.

His relationship with the Kelce brothers was odd. Her parents were friendly and greeted him with open arms. Her brothers did not.

Travis was the first to finally accept and come to terms that his sister was dating a fellow NFL player, and approached Nick after the 49ers loss earlier in the season to the Chiefs.

Travis had approached him and shook his hand after the game, saying, "Tell Angie I'm stopping by tonight before we fly out tomorrow."

Nick nodded and they parted ways.

That night, Travis sulked a bit at the couple's kitchen table as his sister chewed him out for being an asshole the last couple of months. Nick said nothing and stayed out of it.

Neither man was surprised when she then got to serving dinner and asked to say grace together. That was just Angie's way.

Things were good after that. Sure, they weren't best friends, but an understanding and respect formed between the two of them with Travis even occasionally reaching out to congratulate him on his team's win.

It was just Jason.

Who was still being, "a stubborn asshole whose ass I will kick," according to Angie.

Nick had yet to meet the older brother personally, but knew the man didn't care for him.

Mrs. Kelce gave him another hug again, telling him good luck and saying goodbye to his family as she made her way out of the hotel.

His mom complimented her decision to stop by and greet him.

He appreciated it too.

-----

Nick was deeply upset and hurt as he limped his way off the field. It was crushing to lose so badly like this.

It was if the well oiled machine of the 49ers just came apart in the span of minutes the second Brock went out and Johnson came on.

Everyone there or watching knew it too.

They injury on his ankle was just the icing on the fucking cake.

Just as he was getting ready to leave the field and find refuge in the locker room, wanting so bad to just go back to his girlfriend, he was interrupted by a hand clapping his left shoulder.

He looked up in irritation, both at being interrupted from his gloom and at himself for not realizing someone was likely calling his name just moments ago.

He was surprised to see the serious face of Jason Kelce staring back.

Both were quiet for a moment before Jason held his hand out to him, "Good game, man. I'm sorry it didn't turn out in your favorite tonight. You guys have been killing it all season."

Nick cleared his throat and accepted the handshake. "Thanks. Yeah.. I guess that's just football." He said awkwardly, not knowing what else to say to his girlfriend's oldest brother.

He had overheard the phone argument that day she had with Jason, and had heard the stuff Jason said about him.

He was pissed for the longest time over that, but soon realized that it wasn't really about him at the end of the day personally, but just a man trying to look out for his baby sister.

Still, this was awkward.

"Look," Jason stared away for a minute before looking back at him, trying to ignore the loud cheering of the stadium around them. This wasn't the best place to hold a conversation, but he clearly wanted to do it now and Nick, while exhausted, knew it was pretty important too. "I've been an asshole. I'm sorry for the shit I said to Angie about you and your character. I'm sorry I upset her and made her cry too. She's my baby sister and I am always prepared to step in when necessary. I know that's not much of a consolidation in all of this, but I am sorry for causing any strain on your guys relationship. It wasn't right."

Nick just stared at him for a moment or two, processing what he was saying, before responding back, "I get it dude. I really do. Things have been tough and if I had a younger sister, I couldn't imagine how protective I'd be too of her. Just know she means a lot to me and I'd never go out of my way to cause her hurt."

Jason nodded and reached his hand out once more, "I'm glad we could talk a bit. I don't want to hold you up any longer as I see cameras coming this way. I'll reach out to Angie tonight. I know she's going to have a shit ton of stuff to say to me when I do, but I'm ready for it. We'll need to link up at some point."

"For sure." Nick said.

They shook hands again and parted ways.

Nick was still in his head as he made it off the field and to the guest locker room, muting out the noise around him as he thought about what just happened.

He knew the cameras were recording for a distance as both of them spoke, and he knew Angie was likely watching from home and saw it too.

He was sure his phone was blowing up with texts from her.

After he finished showering and changed, he took a seat in front of his locker as he watched his teammates solemnly pack up and change quickly to get the hell out of that stadium.

He had a few minutes before he had to go talk with the media.

He opened his messages and immediately saw Angie's at the top.

Angelina 🤪 I'm so sorry baby. :(

What did Jason say to you? I will fly out there and kick his fucking ass! Let me make sure I pack my inhaler tho

That was over an hour ago and Nick for a split second was worried that she would be crazy enough to fly out here just to rip her brother a new one.

He quickly texted her back.

Nicholas 🐻 Thank you, babe. And he actually was apologizing. He said he'd be calling you later to see about getting together to clear the air.

You feeling any better?

Her response was immediate

Angelina 🤪 I am feeling a bit better than earlier. I'm glad to know it wasn't him being an asshole. Cause he knows I will come out there if I have too.

Nick quietly chuckled a bit to himself at that, knowing how true it was.

Just then his name was called to go out and speak to the press. He sighed and slipped his phone into his pocket as he got up.

While his season was now over as well as his team's chance at the Super Bowl, he'd take the personal win of making amends with his girlfriend's older brother.

Now, if only Angie doesn't kill him when he tells her his plans of not attending the Super Bowl..

#nick bosa fanfic #nick bosa imagine #nick bosa imagines #nick bosa one shot

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drewsbuzzcut · 4 months

Note

some girl hitting on nick at a party ( after they are married) and Dallas losing her shit on her

Caught Up In It All

nick moldenhauer x dallas blankenburg

a so it goes fic

warnings: jealousy, mentions sex, mentions underage drinking, and i think that’s all. (Let me know if i miss anything) This is also slightly edited

Dallas’ hips continue to grind up against Nick- even as the girl across the room continues to stare daggers into the couple’s heads. Nick’s hands are a good distraction as they travel all over her body. At first they held onto her hips, keeping her body flush against him, but then they moved up her torso. Now, one hand rests on her neck, angling her head up so he can seal his lips to hers. It’s like he knows someone is watching them.

The room is hot, sweat is dripping down the girl’s forehead. Her head becomes more and more fuzzy as their bodies sway sensually together.

Dallas makes eye contact with the same girl, so she gives her a cocky grin. Lifting an arm up, she throws it behind her, hand cupping the back of Nick’s neck as she starts to suck on his skin. There’s a red mark already blossoming in the area, highlighted by the glitter of her lip gloss. Dallas starts bending her knees, body going lower and lower as she dances in front of her boyfriend. He grabs both of her hands lifting them up as she gradually stands to her full height.

“Have I told you how sexy you are?” Nick pulls her into his arms, whispering his question in her ear.

She giggles, leaning more into his body before pecking his lips.

“You have many times, but you know I love hearing it,” she retorts, carding her fingers through his sweaty hair.

“You, my wife, are so incredibly sexy. I can’t wait to get my hands on you later,” he flatters her, nipping at her earlobe. Dallas swoons at “wife,” still not used to their recent nuptials.

“You’re the sexy one, husband,” she says hotly, hands going underneath his shirt.

“Do you want a drink?” He asks her in between hot kisses.

“Yes and while you do that I will go run to the restroom,” she says, kissing him before she leaves.

Dallas makes sure to fix her lip gloss, she cannot not have on lipgloss- especially when she’s at a party. After a few random selfies in the mirror, she makes her way out of the bathroom to find Nick waiting at the kitchen bar. With that girl. Dallas can feel the blood in her veins start to boil, the liquid courage egging her on as she confidently walks their way. Jealousy isn’t something she’s used to, but every now and then the green monster comes out to play.

Nick is clearly annoyed and the girl clearly isn’t getting the hint. He keeps backing up away from her each time she reaches a hand out to touch his bicep.

Act like nothing's wrong. Act graceful. No reaction is the best reaction.

“Baby!” Nick shouts once he sees his girl.

“Hi, handsome. What did you get me?” She greets him, pressing a kiss to his bicep and accepting her drink from his hands.

“Vodka and Red Bull,” he responds, pulling her under his arm.

“Who is this?” The girl in front of them asks Nick as if Dallas wasn’t even there.

“My wife, Dallas,” Nick informs her.

“Wife?” The girl partially shrieks, face showing an expression of shock and annoyance.

“That’s what he said, was it not? Who are you?” Dallas’ mouth speaks before she can think about what she’s saying.

“I’m Inez,” the girl, Inez, replies.

“Ironic,” Dallas scoffs, stopping her eyes from rolling no matter how hard it is. She is not in the mood to deal with another Inez.

“I was just talking with Nicky here about hockey. I love hockey. It’s so rough,” Inez explains with an overly eager tone. She attempts to reach out and squeeze Nick’s bicep, but Dallas subtly pushes her hand away.

“I’m gonna go back out to the dance floor. Come find me when you’re done here, Nicky,” Dallas says to Nick, mocking Inez’s nickname for her husband.

“No, stay with me. I’m just about to say goodbye,” he quickly responds, pulling Dallas back into his body. His arm goes over her shoulder, his hand coming down to affectionately squeeze at her boob. Dallas lets her smirk cover her features.

“So how long have you been married?”

“A month,” Dallas responds.

“Why get married so young? Did you get pregnant unexpectedly? Or are you just a money hungry slut going after his money?” Inez sneers, fixing Dallas with an accusatory glance.

Dallas and Nick are both stunned to silence. Dallas feels all sanity slip away as Nick starts to respond.

“Don’t ever talk that way about my-“

“Who the fuck do you think you are?” Dallas is pissed.

“I’m just asking questions. There’s nothing wrong with that,” Inez defends herself.

“You ask too many fucking questions. We’re married because we’re in love. No, I’m not pregnant and no, I’m not after his money. The next time you want to ask stupid ass questions, maybe ask yourself why you’re the slut trying to go after my husband. You’re lucky I’ve been drinking, or I’d be beating the shit out of you for disrespecting me and my relationship. Get the fuck out of my face,” Dallas snaps, chest heaving and cheeks a shade of red Nick has never seen.

“I’m the slut? Says the girl who’s always around all the hockey players. Nick, she’s probably cheating on you with the whole team,” Inez spews out more accusatory remarks.

“Don’t start talking shit about my wife, especially when you don’t know anything,” Nick blurts out.

“Don’t fuck with me. I’m not playing about fighting you. If I hear one more disrespectful word come out of your mouth, I’ll make sure that everyone knows you’re a husband stealing bitch. Or at least an attempted one, because why the hell would my husband go after you when he has me? Learn your place and get the fuck away from us,” Dallas finishes.

Nick turns her around, pulling her into a hug, simply done paying any attention to the girl.

Inez walks away, her turn to be quiet.

“Are you okay?” Nick whispers, pulling back some to check on his wife.

“I’m fine, I promise. I know you were about to tell her off, but I just couldn’t stay silent,” Dallas responds, voice timid. She’s beyond flustered because she’s not used to being in situations like that.

“I love you, June bug. You’re my one and only,” Nick kisses her lips, wiping away the few tears that fall from her eyes.

“Why are you crying?” He asks, rubbing her back.

“She ruined our night, and now people are looking at us because I caused a scene,” she mutters.

“No she didn’t. We’re going to go back on the dance floor and dance until our feet hurt, and then I’m taking you home and I’m going to fuck my beautiful wife until she’s seeing stars, because she’s the most important thing in my life,” her husband says, making her blush and feel giddy.

“Can we just skip to the sex?” She asks, jokingly, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing his lips some more. She hides her face in his shoulder, feeling the adrenaline crash.

“Come on, June bug,” he smirks at her, hands squeezing at her ass before he drags her to the dance floor.

“I think I need to get you one of the shirts about your girlfriend being hotter than everyone else,” Dallas shouts over the loud music.

Nick turns, pulling her body into his and smirks down at her.

“I wouldn’t be opposed to that. You are hotter than everyone else,” he says into the skin of her neck.

“You’re mine,” she whispers, leaning up to connect their lips in a bruising kiss.

“You’re mine,” Nick repeats, nibbling on her bottom lip before he dances the rest of the night away with his wife.

a/n: ENJOY!!!

#nick moldenhauer #nick moldenhauer x oc #nick moldenhauer x reader #nick x dallas #so it goes au #umich imagine #umich hockey

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evolvingsidekick · 4 months

Text

BD - winners where are they now (incomplete)

I think someone requested this somewhere

Most females and recent males because there are just too many to do rn

At companies:

Miriam Gittens (s2013): Gibney Company

Alyssa Allen (s2014): Ballets Jazz Montreal

Brianne Sellars (s2014): Dallas Black Dance Theatre

Ashley Green (s2015): Alvin Ailey American dance Theater

Payton Johnson (j2012, t2015, s2017): L.A. Dance Project

Vivian Ruiz (s2019): Ballet BC

Kelis Robinson (t2018, s2020): The Batsheva Dance Company; The Juilliard School

Kiarra Waidelich (m2016, j2018, t2020): Royal Flux Company

Quinn Starner (t2017): New York City Ballet Corps de Ballet

Emma Sutherland (j2014, t2016): MashUp Contemporary Dance Co.

Sarah Pippin (t2011): Ballet BC

Timmy Blankenship (s2017): Sydney Dance Company; choreographer

Brady Farrar (m2014, j2017, t2021): ABT Junior Company

Easton Magliarditi (t2020): Royal Flux Company

Graham Feeny (t2015): Artistic associate at Gibney Company

Logan Hernandez (t2015): Göteborgs Operans Danskompani

Zenon Zubyk (t2013): Nederlands Dans Theater

Jonathan Wade (j2011, s2016): Rambert Dance Company

Wyeth Walker (s2017): Rubberband Dance Company

Faculty/teacher/choreography:

Lucy Vallely (t2015, s2018): Broadway Dance Center, freelance choreographer

Jayci Kalb ( j2011, t2014, s2016): The Dance Centre; Radio City Clara 2010

Taylor Sieve (s2016): Jump Dance Convention

Jenna Johnson (s2012): DWTS pro, 24 Seven Dance Convention

Jazzmin James (t2012, s2015): faculty several intensives

Jaycee Wilkins (j2015): Club Dance Studio

Sophia Lucia (j2014): Dancelab OC

Brynn Rumfallo (m2014): Strive Dance Workshop (own project)

Talia Seitel (m2012): Project 21 (part-time)

Lex Ishimoto (t2014, s2016): Jump Dance Convention

at University/college:

Ellie Wagner (s2019): Ohio State University Dance Team

Ella Horan (s2021): USC Kaufman

Kayla Mak (m2014, s2021): The Juilliard School; Radio City Clara 2014, 2015

Brianna Keingatti (s2022): The Juilliard School

Julia Lowe (s2023): USC Kaufman

Ava Wagner (j2018): University of Minnesota Dance Team

Avery Gay (m2015, j2017): University of Arizona School of Dance

Leara Stanley (m2011): Duke University

Sam Fine (s2023): USC Kaufman; Young Arts 2022

Seth Gibson: The Juilliard School

Alex Shulman (s2022): New York University Tisch Dance

Joziah German (m2014, t2018, s2020): The Juilliard School

Joey Gertin (t2018): The Juilliard School

Professional dancer/choreographer:

Simrin Player (t2014, s2017): The Voice, Missy Elliot, Justin Bieber, RBD

Jaxon Williard (s2021): Rihanna, Madonna, Lil Nas X

D'Angelo Castro (j2012, t2016, s2019): DWTS troupe

Findlay Mcconnell (t2017, s2019): Tate McRace

Christian Smith (s2018): Tate McRae, NBC's Saved by the Bell

Keanu Uchida (s2014): Dancer the Musical; also a big advocate for protecting dancers and calling out inappropriate behaviour

Eric Schloesser (s2014): Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, J Balvin; choreographer, creative director, designer; Dana Foglia Dance Company

Other/a combo of things:

Bianca Melchior (s2011): actor, dancer, singer; Nick Jonas, Alessia Cara, own music; faculty at On The Floor dance competition

Tate McRae (m2013, j2015, t2018): singer/songwriter

Bostyn Brown (j2016, t2019): Professional assistant at DanceOne

Megan Goldstein (t2017); dancer, photographer

Christina Ricucci (t2013): actor, musician, dancer

Bella Klassen (j2017): The Space, vlogger

Kalani Hilliker (j2013): influencer, teaching at several places (Danceplex, MBA)

Elliana Walmsley (m2018): influencer, DWTS Junior, Radio City Clara 2019

Diana Pombo (m2016): singer/songwriter, dancer, actor; Young Arts voice 2023+2024

Morgan Higgins (t2016, s2018): dancer, aerialist

Zelig Williams (s2013):dancer/actor: MJ the Musical, Hamilton

Daniel Gaymon (s2011): dancer/actor; Broadway (Cats, The Lion King); Hamilton national tour, La La Land

Ricky Ubeda (t2011, s2012): choreographer, actor; Steven Spielberg's West Side Story

Michael Hall (s2015): Saturday Night Fever the Musical, tv dancer in Cairo, Egypt; teacher

Julian Elia (t2014): Steven Spielberg's Westside Story, working on the development of a new Broadway musical

Sage Rosen (t2016): influencer; DWTS Junior

Ryan Maw (j2015, t2017): choreographer, dancer, actor: High School Musical: The Musical - The Series

Holden Maples (j2016, t2019): dancer, teacher, choreographer

Competing/not graduated honorable mentions:

Cameron Voorhees (m2018, j2021, t2023): Evolve Dance Complex; starting career as a teacher/choreographer

Crystal Huang (m2019, j2021, t2023): The Rock Center for Dance, Bayer Ballet Academy; Prix De Lausanne 2024, Young Arts 2024, Radio City Clara 2021

Hailey Bills (m2017, t2022): Center Stage Performing Arts Studio, DWTS Junior

Brightyn Brems (m2017): DWTS Junior

Avery Hall (t2022): Danceology; Young Arts 2023

Savannah Kristich (t2021): The Rock Center For Dance; Twyla Now

Savannah Manzel (m2020): Larkin Dance Studio, Radio City Clara 2023

Kya Massimino (m2021): Radio City Clara 2023

Ian Stegeman (m2019, j2021, t2023): Woodbury Dance Center, Young Arts 2024

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jaidens · 7 months

Text

「INTO FOLKLORE」 — TAYLOR SWIFT.

REQUEST PAGE FOR : EPISODE : FOLKLORE + EVERMORE - TAYLOR SWIFT. [ 10 | 6 | 23 — 10 | 20 | 23 ]

RULES FOR REQUESTING —

i am not taking any smut requests at this moment; your request can only be under these circumstances.

• fluff : cuddling, kissing, and ‘sleeping together’ are underneath this category!

• angst : break-ups, arguments, and other upsetting topics are underneath this category!

REQUESTS —

1. the 1

2. cardigan

3. the last great american dynasty

4. exile (featuring bon iver)

5. my tears ricochet

6. mirrorball

7. seven

8. august

9. this is me trying

10. illicit affairs (dean winchesters’ vers.)

11. invisible string

12. mad woman

13. epiphany

14. betty

15. peace

16. hoax

17. bonus track: the lakes

꒰ THIS PAIN WOULDN'T BE FOR EVERMORE ꒱ — TAYLOR SWIFT.

1. willow (dallas winstons’ vers.)

2. champagne problems

3. gold rush

4. tis the damn season

5. tolerate it

6. no body, no crime ft. Haim

7. happiness

8. dorothea

9. coney island ft. The National

10. ivy

11. cowboy like me (dallas winstons’ vers.)

12. long story short

13. closure

14. evermore ft. Bon Iver

bonus tracks

15. right where you left me

16. it's time to go

#folklore + evermore 🍂#sam winchester x reader #dean winchester x reader #castiel x reader #dallas winston x reader #johnny cade x reader #ponyboy curtis x reader #pete mitchell x reader #tom kazansky x reader #nick bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw x reader #jake seresin x reader #bob floyd x reader

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satelitis · 4 months

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˗ˏˋ 𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐈𝐍’𝐒 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐘 ´ˎ˗

୭- 𝐁𝐎𝐘𝐒 𝐃𝐎𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐑𝐘 : standard tumblr games (cym, whos most likely, kmk etc,etc.)

🕸- 𝐅𝐀𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐓 : send me a trope and a character and i will make headcanons about it. (drummer!butch jojo, baker!peter parker)

⋆-𝐋𝐔𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐘 : matchups!! send me a short desc. of yourself and i will match you up with someone (please include fandom and gender preference)

୭- 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐆 : moots only!!! i will associate you with a song, artist, color, book, movie and character!

🕸- 𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐈𝐌 𝐈𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 : give me a specific mood/ vibe/pastime and i will give you a movie, song and book rec!

⋆- 𝐏𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔 : your turn!! tell me who you ship me with!! you can write little headcanons or thoughts <33 (please do this one if you do ilysm!!)

DISCLAIMER!! : please only stick to one request per ask! and only the fandoms i write for!! keep the reqs sfw!! I AM A MINOR!!! also if a character is canonically lesbian or gay then only req for that gender specific reader please (no robin buckley x male reader)!!! this event is running from 1/07-1/31 !! have fun loves!!

TAGGING MOOTIES!! : @mictodii @spaceagebachelormann @dizzyntrr @juneberrie @solutopia @spiderst4rgirl @spiderfunkz @stvrlighttgabss @isitoversnowtvs @jaidens @dljcem @doyouknowwhoyouare13

CHARACTERS I'M WRITING FOR : tasm! peter parker , miguel diaz, johnny lawrence, daniel larusso, anthony larusso, hawk mozkowitz, robby keene, tori nichols, dallas winston, ponyboy curtis, steve randal, two-bit matthews, darry curtis, johnny cade, sodapop curtis, butch jojo, brick jojo, boomer jojo, sirius black, regulus black, james potter, remus lupin, marlene mckinnon, ron weasley, fred weasley, george weasley, cedric diggory, harry potter, hermione granger, luna lovegood, ginny weasley, lee jordan, bradley bradshaw, nick bradshaw, pete mitchell, tom kazenzky, anakin skywalker, luke skywalker, leia skywalker, han solo, richie tozier, stanley uris, eddie kaspberak, beverly marsh, ben hascom, mike hanlon, bill denbrough, mike wheeler, eddie munson, robin buckley, steve harrington, max mayfield, lucas sinclair, richie white, john b routledge, jj maybank, sarah cameron, kiera carerra, pope hayward. ask if a character you would like isn't on this list!!

#˗ˏˋ 𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐈𝐍’𝐒 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐘 ´ˎ˗#──★ ˙dals declarations !!

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faerieroyal · 4 months

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✩⡱ who i write for !

✭ ◦ ˚ favorites/inspired for, platonic/familial requests only, requests currently closed

✭ ◦ ˚ links on character names lead to fancasts

✭ ◦ ˚ any ships listed are meant for poly x reader requests, i do not write for the ships by themselves

the batman: bruce wayne, selina kyle, edward nashton.

dc: bruce wayne, clark kent, diana prince, harley quinn, selina kyle, pamela isley, dick grayson, jason todd, roy harper, tim drake, stephanie brown, barbara gordon, cassandra cain, damian wayne, superbat, jayroy.

golden trio era: harry potter, ron weasley, hermione granger, draco malfoy, ginny weasley, luna lovegood, neville longbottom, fred weasley, george weasley, cedric diggory, oliver wood, theodore nott, pansy parkinson, cho chang.

marauders era: james potter, sirius black, remus lupin, lily evans, marlene mckinnon, dorcas meadowes, mary macdonald, barty crouch jr., evan rosier, regulus black, narcissa black, jily, dorlene, marylily, wolfstar, rosekiller, poly marauders.

fantastic beasts: newt scamander, theseus scamander, leta lestrange, tina goldstein, queenie goldstein.

chronicles of narnia: peter pevensie, susan pevensie, edmund pevensie, lucy pevensie, caspian the tenth.

baldur’s gate 3: wyll ravengard, astarion ancunin, gale dekarios, karlach cliffgate, halsin silverbough, shadowheart, lae’zel, shadowzel, bloodpact, bloodweave, wyllach, hellspawn, bloodbear, wyllsin.

dead poets society: neil perry, todd anderson, charlie dalton, steven meeks, gerard pitts, richard cameron, knox overstreet, ginny danbury, chris noel, anderperry.

the outsiders: darrel "darry" curtis, sodapop curtis, ponyboy curtis, johnny cade, steve randle, dallas "dally" winston, keith "two-bit" mathews, cheryl "cherry" valance.

ted lasso: ted lasso, jamie tartt, roy kent, keeley jones, sam obisanya, jamieroy, tedroy, roykeeley.

one piece (live action): monkey d. luffy, roanoa zoro, vinsmoke sanji, nami, usopp, dracule mihawk, red-haired shanks, zosan.

hazbin hotel: charlie morningstar, vaggie, lucifer morningstar, angel dust, husk, alastor the radio demon, rosie the cannibal, sir pentious, cherri bomb, emily seraphim, chaggie, royalhalo, two and a half halos, huskerdust, cherrisnake.

triple frontier: santiago garcia, frankie morales, benny miller, will miller.

formula one: daniel ricciardo, carlos sainz, charles leclerc, lando norris, max verstappen, lance stroll, alex albon, george russell, pierre gasly, oscar piastri, logan sargeant, mick schumacher, esteban ocon, maxiel, charlos, carlando, loscar, lestappen, charlandos.

nhl: mitch marner, jamie drysdale, william nylander, quinn hughes, jack hughes, luke hughes, adam larrson, matthew knies, nico hischier, juraj slafkovsky.

stranger things: steve harrington, eddie munson, robin buckley, nancy wheeler, jonathan byers, chrissy cunningham, steddie, hellcheer, ronance.

good omens: aziraphale, crowley, muriel, anathema device, ineffable husbands, ineffable bureaucracy.

marvel: bucky barnes, eddie brock, kate bishop, yelena belova, natasha romanoff, sam wilson, carol danvers, wanda maximoff, pietro maximoff, loki laufeyson, thor odinson, darcy lewis, jane foster, druig, makkari, kingo, bruce banner, peter parker (tom holland), ned leeds, michelle jones, marc spector/steven grant/jake lockley, layla el-faouly, peter quill, scott lang, xu shang-chi, xu xialing, helmut zemo, peter parker (andrew garfield), sambucky, spideychelle, interwebs, drukkari.

top gun: pete "maverick" mitchell, tom "iceman" kazansky, nick "goose" bradshaw, ron "slider" kerner, bradley "rooster" bradshaw, jake "hangman" seresin, natasha "phoenix" trace, bob floyd, javy "coyote" machado, mickey "fanboy" garcia, callie "halo" shen, icemav, hangster, floydsin, halonix.

star wars: luke skywalker, anakin skywalker, padmé amidala, obi-wan kenobi, din djarin, ahsoka tano, rex, cody, wrecker, crosshair, wolffe, hunter, echo, fives, tech, omega.

slashers: michael myers, jason vorhees, daniel "candyman" robitaille, jason dean, billy loomis, stu macher, hannibal lecter, carrie white, thomas hewitt, bo sinclair, vincent sinclair, norman bates, hannigram, poly ghostface.

twilight: charlie swan, alice cullen, emmett cullen, carlisle cullen, seth clearwater, paul lahote, jasper hale, rosalie hale, poly charlie & carlisle.

x-men: charles xavier, erik lensherr, kurt wagner, raven darkhölme, peter maximoff, logan howlett, jean grey, scott summers, alex summers, sean cassidy.

the magnificent seven (2016): goodnight robicheaux, billy rocks, joshua faraday, vasquez, sam chisholm, red harvest, jack horne, the magnificent seven (unit).

little women (2019): jo march, meg march, amy march, beth march, theodore "laurie" laurence.

newsies (broadway version): jack kelly, david jacobs, katherine pulitzer, crutchie morris, spot conlon, racetrack higgins, albert dasilva, finch.

miscellaneous: tangerine, evan "buck" buckley, eddie diaz, buddie, ferris bueller, cameron frye, daniel larusso, johnny lawrence, marty mcfly, phil wenneck, joel miller, spencer reid, aaron hotchner, penelope garcia, jess mariano, rory gilmore, eggsy unwin, agent whiskey, barbie (margot robbie), ken (ryan gosling).

✩⡱ request rules !

types of content i will write: headcanons, drabbles, blurbs based on concepts and thoughts.

what i will write: fluff, angst, hurt/comfort, readers of any gender (male, female, gender-neutral), readers of color and various religions, poly reader inserts with ships, suggestive content (no actual smut, but suggestive and fade-to-black is fine), various types of aus (if you're not sure, feel free to ask).

what i will not write: anything fully nsfw (suggestive content is fine), full-length one-shots (at least not by request), non-canon sexualities for characters, age play/regression, rape or sexual assault, eating disorders, self-harm.

✩⡱ other rules !

i will not write one-shots or full-length fics by request. however, i may write one-shots or series based on my own ideas if i am feeling inspired. otherwise, i will only take requests for headcanons, drabbles, and concepts or thoughts from you that i can turn into blurbs.

i will write for readers of any gender, but if you do not specify the reader's gender in your request, i will automatically make them gender-neutral, so as to keep my writing as inclusive as possible.

my inspiration tends to come and go a lot, so if it takes me a while to get your request out, i genuinely apologize in advance, but i do ask you to not be rude and try to pressure me into writing faster.

please be polite when sending in requests - i do not ask for a lot, just a simple "please" and "thank you" so i know you don't think of me as just a writing machine.

on that note, please try to put some kind of general plot into your requests ! not too much, since headcanons and drabbles are meant to be shorter, but i generally need more than just "x character with fluff". also, please put the type of request, or if it's just a thought or concept, in your ask !

you can request for any character in the list above, as long as their name isn't struck through, but if you want to know if i write for another character in any of these fandoms that isn't listed, feel free to ask ! i might still not write them, but i promise i'll try my best !

#— ❥ dolly speaks now !!#— ❥ dolly's navigation things !!

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gothcsz · 3 days

Text

𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒇𝒂𝒓𝒆 / Chapter VI.

PAIRING: Javier Peña x Original Female Character

SUMMARY: The highly anticipated state fair performance. Here's what I envision Paloma singing: Gunpowder & Lead - Miranda Lambert, One Way or Another - Blondie, Poor, Poor Pitiful Me - Linda Ronstadt, Edge of Seventeen - Stevie Nicks.

WORD COUNT: 8k

RATING: 18+ Mature topics such as sex, drugs, murder, the occult, religion, cannibalism and other triggering matters will be explored in this body of work. Minors DNI.

CHAPTER SPECIFIC TAGS: The interrupted right before kissing trope is strong with this one, i think most of this is considered fluff, they're still pining after one another, other things that I'm probably forgetting.

DISCLAIMER/WARNINGS: The Javier Peña referenced in this body of work is solely based off of the character that appears in Netflix’s Narcos and not the actual person. Very canon divergent and I will tweak things as I see fit to compliment the narrative of this story. While efforts have been made to be accurate in terms of canon timeline, a lot of details will be fictionalized, including the usage of the song(s) that Paloma will perform throughout the story.

A/N: as promised, here's the other chapter for the week! i had so much fun writing this and expanding on their dynamic omg… first of all a little commotion for miss paloma…. the icon that she is! also couldn't help myself by having javi wear that sexy ass blue shirt in this… he is just so handsome… i need him BIBLICALLY i fear! i hope you guys enjoy reading, i have so much planned for this fic and it's going to get really messy here soon (: i might even post a lil moodboard for it. anyways feel free to drop any type of feedback/support on this blog or ao3. i'd really appreciate it <3

♰ read on ao3. ♰

♰ playlist | pinterest | series masterlist ♰

Finally , it’s the day of her long awaited state fair performance and Paloma is absolutely overflowing with anticipation, her energy bounding through the house like a whirlwind.

The night before was a restless blur, nerves and excitement intertwining to steal away her sleep.

She had read a variety newspaper articles to get more information on the fair itself. She uncovered the staggering scope of its annual attendance; a revelation that both fueled her trepidation and determination.

Her heart pounded like distant drums as the reality set in: hundreds, no, thousands of eyes would be fixed upon her. The prospect thrilled her to her core, igniting a fiery passion within, yet it also stirred a profound stage fright.

Rarely does she feel said stage fright; memory of her last instance likely dating back to when she was fourteen, trembling as she took the stage at The Whiskey Fox for the very first time. Since then, her journey has been a voyage of calm seas, and now, as she's grown into her own, Paloma is enveloped in a sense of serene confidence.

It’s understandable that she’s apprehensive about transitioning from a smaller venue to a stage at a grander event. There’s a tinge of sadness in her heart knowing that her father wouldn’t be there to accompany her. He’s witnessed her artistic evolution firsthand and has always been her staunchest supporter. Her number one fan.

Unfortunately, duty calls and with Jessica Valdez still missing; he was needed here.

On the other hand, Javier’s presence was not as essential, and Romeo practically burst with joyful relief when Paloma revealed that the deputy sheriff would be her companion all the way to Dallas.

Just as she had expected.

Earlier in the morning, before heading off to the station, the sheriff had popped into her bedroom to wish her luck. With a tender gaze, he doted on his daughter, expressing his his pride in her and, in his own unique manner, even offered a subtle apology for his recent behavior. As always, she embraced his understanding with ease, and in that moment, the weight of apprehension that had been bearing down on her lifted, replaced by a sense of relief and reassurance.

She’s currently stationed in her bedroom, sitting at her vanity and meticulously rolling her thick locks into velvety coils that she intends to keep in place throughout the entire four-hour journey to the city. Her face is bare, body clad in a tank top and shorts and she doesn’t plan on doing much to her appearance until they make it to the fairgrounds.

As a soft rumble fills the air, she casts a glance out of her bedroom window, her lips curling into a smile at the sight of Javier's truck rolling into view.

Fuck , she reflects on the unexpected bravery it took to ask him to join her. While her primary concern was appeasing her father, she also couldn't deny the allure of spending time with him.

Despite her bold and flirtatious gestures, Paloma is sure that if the opportunity to actually fuck him ever arose, she would be overcome with nervousness. Don’t get her wrong; she longs to indulge her selfish desires and surrender to him completely. Yet, the thought of not meeting his expectations casts a shadow of doubt.

Oh, for fucks sake, Paloma–– when have you ever cared about living up to a man's expectations?

She scoffs at herself, bobby pin between her teeth as she rushes down the stairs to answer Javier’s knocking.

“ I am on time, right? ” He quips, his voice carrying a playful tone from the other side of the screen door since the wooden door that usually blocks it is wide open.

“ Sure are. I’m the one that's runnin’ behind. Don’t worry–– just gotta get my damn hair rolled up and we'll be ready to go. You can come in. ” She motions for him to enter, pausing in the hallway that stretches toward the foyer. She steals a moment to glance at her reflection in the mirror, deftly sliding the bobby pin into her hair to secure the roller in place.

As Javier crosses the threshold, the screen door emits a reluctant groan, briefly stirring the awareness that they are alone once more in the house. However, her attention remains steadfast on ensuring her hair is perfectly secured, leaving no room for weariness to take hold.

His gaze lingers on her figure, igniting a gentle flush that spreads across her cheeks and down her neck as she becomes acutely aware of the extent of her attire’s exposure. The lack of a bra allows her breasts to sway with every subtle movement, her nipples prominent against the fabric.

“ Need help gettin’ anything into the car, nena ? ” With a casual lean against the wall where the mirror hangs, he directs his question to her. In response, her eyes momentarily flicker towards him, a subtle effort evident in her attempt to prevent her blush from deepening any further.

“ Yeah, it’s all in my room. ” She spins on her heel, striding towards the stairs, with him silently shadowing her steps. The realization dawns on her that he will soon enter her room, prompting her eyes to widen in alarm as she takes in the chaotic scene before her— it looks like a fucking tornado has run through the space.

She doesn't have any time to block him from seeing it though, and she bites down on her tongue and mentally curses herself for not cleaning up as she got ready.

Though considering how frantic she’s been all morning, of course she hadn't stopped to think about tidying up.

“ Sorry for the mess… it’s been a morning. ” She grumbles and Javier can't help but be amused.

Surveying the room from the doorway, he takes in the entirety of the space, his broad figure remaining at the threshold. Posters adorn the walls in a scattered mosaic, each a testament to her eclectic tastes. From the timeless allure of Dolly Parton to the ethereal melodies of Fleetwood Mac and the vibrant rhythms of Donna Summer. Their presence doesn't surprise him. Instead, they offer a window into her personality, providing insight into her passions and preferences.

Javier tries not to analyze her by the things she has in her bedroom, yet he finds himself irresistibly drawn in.

It’s a facet of his innate curiosity.

He notices the scattered articles of clothing, a digital piano tucked away in the distant corner, and her bed left invitingly tousled and he can't help but imagine how soft her sheets must be, laced with the natural smell of her.

Amidst the wall space left by absent posters, her bedroom is adorned with an array of framed personal photographs, each encapsulating cherished memories from childhood whimsy to high school triumphs, and all the moments in between.

Yet, it’s the family portrait resting atop her vanity that draws Javier’s eye. He strains to decipher the intricate details of the photograph from where he stands, its contents obscured by the tilt of the frame.

Paloma, attuned to his intense focus, trails his gaze, her stomach tightening at the realization.

Oh.

“ Here, it's my makeup bag and outfit. Please be careful taking this down. I spent all morning ironing it. ” In an effort to divert his attention from the photograph, Paloma passes him her belongings. He carefully examines her features in an attempt at finding reason for her reaction, a half smile tugging at his lips.

“ So bossy, hermosa . Don't worry–– your things are in capable hands. ” He is reluctant to depart, preferring to linger and observe her as she completes her preparations, all the while mentally dissecting her character through the lens of her bedroom’s decor.

“ Sorry, I’m just nervous. ” She confesses, making her way back to her dresser, inconspicuously moving the photo of her, her mother and father out of the way as she returns to the tedious task of curling then rolling her hair.

“ You'll be fine. Pressure can either crush you or make you shine brighter. Let it be the latter. And hey, no matter what happens tonight–– I'll be right there cheering you on. ” The reassurance flows from him without much thought, a rare occurrence for this man who typically struggles with offering comfort. There's a naturalness to it, as if they’re drawn from some deep wellspring within him, bypassing the usual barriers of hesitation and uncertainty.

Paloma, sensing the sincerity in his gaze reflected back at her through the mirror, finds herself caught in the spell of his eyes. In that fleeting connection, she grants him a tender smile, her heart responding to his unspoken affection.

Unsurprisingly, the words bring her some ease, especially since she’s aware of how difficult it can be for him to muster up any type of verbal compassion. He’s a man of few words, after all, so each one carries extra weight when they escape his lips.

“ Thanks, cowboy, M’grateful for your support… and y’know, for taggin’ along even though you didn't have to. ” He nods at her, letting the comfortable silence speak for itself as she continues to get ready.

He senses the underlying urgency within her. Experience whispers caution in his ear, reminding him of the cardinal rule gleaned from years of female companionship: never incur their wrath while they are in the midst of getting ready. And so, he tears himself away, surrendering to the unspoken dictates of the feminine domain.

–––––––––––––––––––

They're just thirty minutes away from their destination, yet she remains fixated on the changing landscape outside the window. Her claim of not leaving seminary in over a decade rings true, evident in the awe reflected in her eyes at the sight of skyscrapers and influx of people.

Javier can’t help but find her genuine amazement endearing, particularly as she gazes out with her hair pinned up stylishly, secured by a silk scarf. The journey to Dallas spans four hours, but the lively conversation between them makes the time fly by, rendering the trip far shorter than it actually is.

Their growing closeness feels like a beautiful risk as they delve deeper into each other's lives with every passing mile.

“ Y'know, I actually do know some Spanish. ” she remarked, drumming her fingers lightly against her thigh.

“ I had a hunch when you never asked me to translate my sweet talking. ” With an arrogant smirk, he looks over at her.

His smirk has her playfully rolling her eyes, “ No puedo leer o escribir tan bien, pero entiendo y hablo en forma conversacional. (I can't read it or write it very well, but I understand it and speak conversationally.)” In a tender twist, her voice took on a sweeter tone in the other language, prompting Javi to shift in his seat, attempting to refrain from envisioning the enchanting timbre of her words whispered intimately in the quiet sanctuary of his sheets.

“ Tu acento (Your accent) … Argentinian? ” He's got a real talent for picking up languages and accents, honed through his international collaborations in the field.

Paloma just shrugged, “ Your guess is as good as mine. My momma taught me and she never really talked about her life before meetin' daddy and stuff. I never really asked questions. After she passed, I didn't keep up with it as much as I should have. ”

The pauses in their conversation are rare, occurring only when the topics of family or his experiences in Colombia arise. Javier notices her keen interest in these subjects, her curiosity palpable. While he has been guarded about delving into anything beyond surface-level details, he finds himself gradually warming up to the notion of sharing a glimpse of his past with her, if only to satisfy her insatiable curiosity.

Yet, he holds back. This wasn’t the time. He wasn't about to cast a shadow over her spirits.

“ I can’t believe this is happening. ”

Paloma disrupts the tranquil hush that had settled between them, her fascination with the scenery outside pulling her into the moment.

“ Well, believe it cariño because we're not too far from the fairgrounds. ”

“ It’s like... a dream. I know, I might sound naive and childish gettin' this worked up about performing at a damn fair. It just means a lot to me. I’ve poured my heart into my music for so long and to see it culminate in this moment is just... thrilling . ”

A pang of longing for her mother’s presence washes over her, silently echoing within her thoughts. Yet she refrains from uttering the sentiment aloud, keeping her yearning hidden beneath a veil of silence.

“ It’s a big and well deserved step forward, Paloma. ” He pauses briefly, looking over at her, “ This means the world to you. You’re going to be amazing. ”

Javier's hand, warm and reassuring, gently finds hers, creating a tender connection that sends a surge of warmth coursing through her veins. The soft brush of his skin against hers ignites a gentle flutter in her chest, stirring feelings she doesn’t want to admit. It’s as if a silent symphony plays between their touch, drawing her attention away from the captivating scenery outside and directing it towards him.

With a soft, almost imperceptible smile, she meets his gaze, finding a silent reassurance and a flicker of something more lingering in his brown eyes.

Arriving at their designated area, meticulously mapped out in a thorough letter sent by Wendy to Paloma, she eagerly jumps out of his truck, bubbling with excitement, while he indulgently rolls his eyes at her enthusiasm.

Delighted to find the band already present and nearly done with setup, she breezes towards them despite her ridiculous appearance, exuding a radiant glow that outshines any imperfection. Her infectious happiness spreads like wildfire as she enthusiastically runs through the rundown of the gig with the group.

Javier stays out of the way, leaning against the bed of his truck.With a cigarette between his fingers and wisps of smoke curling into the air, he drifts into introspection

His mind becomes a labyrinth of memories, weaving through the tapestry of his past—the triumphs and tribulations, the moments of light and shadow. Amidst the haze of contemplation, he finds clarity in the decision that brought him to this juncture: the choice to refrain from confronting the Cali cartel.

Having spent years evading the ordinary, Javier stumbles upon an unforeseen refuge in monotony. With the weight of his taxing agent job finally lifted, he embraces the simplicity of everyday life with a newfound sense of relief.

As the days pass, Javier slowly discovers a peace he has long evaded, savoring the quiet moments that once seemed dull.

He finds himself drifting into a restful slumber, albeit for a few hours, a small victory against the insomnia that consistently torments him. In the gentle rhythm of routine, he begins to rediscover himself, finding solace in the tranquility he once feared.

While the looming homicide cases in Seminary present formidable challenges, each one a puzzle demanding his attention, he approaches them with a newfound confidence. It’s a stark contrast to the uncertainty that had clouded his final days in Colombia.

However, amidst this newfound tranquility, there persists a secret too delicate to utter aloud. His ongoing infatuation with Paloma, a woman whose presence has become both a source of comfort and turmoil. He won’t acknowledge that her presence in his life plays a significant role in his newfound ability to cope. Such complexities are best left uncharted, buried beneath the surface of their convoluted relationship.

Engrossed in his thoughts, Javier doesn’t notice when Paloma approaches him.

“ M’gonna go get ready. Sure you can survive a few hours without me? ” She teases him and he exhales the smoke away from her, the sunglasses on his face masking the adoration gleaming in his eyes.

“ I think I should be asking you that question, palomita . ” The new term of endearment sends her heart aflutter, and she can't help but feel how it resonates more when Javier says it in Spanish compared to when August had uttered it in English..

Little dove.

“ In that case, no, I’d simply crumble without you. ” She over exaggerates her words, punctuating them with playful gestures and a touch of dramatic flair.

Their laughter intertwines, and her smile blooms into a radiant expression of affection.

“ Órale nena , go get ready before you're late to your own performance. ” Javier indulges in another puff of his cigarette, and like the good girl she is, she saunters around the truck to fetch her belongings before heading off to the portable trailer, her makeshift dressing room.

In Paloma’s absence, he engages in conversation with the band members. Comprising three men and one woman, they share with him the story of how they met and how Paloma reignited their passion for music. The narrative resonates with her persona and innate ability to effortlessly charm those in her presence.

Javier an unsuspecting victim of this crime.

When the sun begins to set, he looks down at his watch to check the time as her lively voice draws near.

“ Alright, y'all, how do I look? ”

Javier's gaze alighted upon her, it was as if the world around him faded into insignificance, leaving only her radiant presence to fill his senses. His breath caught in his chest, suspended in the awe that washes over him like a gentle tide. In the depths of his soul, a symphony of emotions stirred, each note resonating with the profound beauty that she effortlessly embodies.

She beams with pride at the ensemble she’s meticulously curated.

A crimson leather corset embraces her waist with finesse, fashioned in the likeness of a halter top, baring her shoulders and presenting a tantalizing canvas of skin for all eyes to see. Her cleavage commands attention, accentuated by her mother’s cross pendant nestled against her breasts. She had transformed a pair of aged low-rise jeans, adding intricate rhinestone patterns promised to dance enchantingly under the glare of the stage lights.

The buckle on her belt is beautiful and distinguishable, an important accessory down here in Texas; she’s made sure that her boots match her attire.

Her hair cascades in perfect waves, thick and luscious, framing her face with a touch of effortless glamor. It’s been a long time since she’s had a full face of makeup on, and the strip lashes are uncomfortable against the sensitive skin but beauty is pain and goddamnit she’s stunning .

She feels the part of a super star, and her band members do nothing but boost her ego as they begin to shower her in compliments and friendly catcalls. She indulges them with a twirl, allowing them to admire her outfit from every angle.

Javier stays silent, dumbfounded entirely by how fucking hot she looks.

“ I think I just saw a horsefly fly into his mouth. ” One of the bandmates teases and this has Javier snapping out of it, meeting Paloma's expectant gaze.

For a man who always has something to say, especially in the company of beautiful women, he finds himself at a loss for words.

“ You look gorgeous, querida . ”

She blushes, murmuring a soft ‘thank you’ as her eyes momentarily flicker down to her square-toed boots. It’s exasperating how easily he can get her flustered. The compliment isn’t extravagant, yet it strikes her deeply nonetheless.

She won’t admit that the extra effort she invested in her appearance tonight was not just for the event; but also for him . She is aware that Javier finds her attractive and it harbors this desire to unveil a new facet of her beauty to him so he can see all the types of beautiful she can be.

As the rest of the group disperses to squeeze in some last minute warm ups, Paloma saunters toward him. Her hands rest confidently on her hips as his gaze traverses the curves of her form, unabashed and unapologetic.

“ I’m serious. You look hot and I know you’ll look even better when you’re up there doin’ what you’re so passionate about. ” His words have her heart racing, igniting a kaleidoscope of fireworks that burst with intensity within her core.

“ You're quite the charmer, aren’t you?”

“ Only when I’m around someone as captivating as you. ”

Fuck.

“ Flattery will get you everywhere , you know. ”

“ Is that so? ” With a contemplative tilt of his head, he gazes at her, his aviators now absent, allowing her to lose herself in the depths of his captivating eyes. “ Well, in that case, I’ll have to keep it coming. After all, I can’t resist making a beautiful woman smile. ”

They stand toe to toe, Paloma tilting her chin upward to meet his gaze while Javier gently inclines his head downward to meet her eyes.

As he looks down at her, the thought of planting a gentle kiss on her lips, a token of good luck, flits through his mind. Just as the impulse begins to take hold, fate intervenes and Paloma is called to the stage, leaving their moment suspended in anticipation.

“ Break a leg, palomita . ” He tells her, stepping back so she can make her way up the steps.

–––––––––––––––––––

It is both everything yet nothing she expected.

As she ascended the stage, she discerned a comforting familiarity: the typical audience size from her usual gigs back home. This recognition alone served as a balm to her nerves, reassuring her that she could handle it.

It felt decidedly manageable. Yet, as the performance progressed, the crowd swelled to such a density that individual faces blurred into an indistinguishable mass, a sea of humanity stretching before her.

With every fiber of her being, she poured herself into that performance, channeling raw emotion and passion into each note. This may very well be her first and last time gracing an event this grand, and she was determined to leave an indelible mark.

As the music swelled and her voice soared, she ignited a fire within the hearts of her audience, each chord resonating with an intensity that transcends mere sound. This wasn’t just a performance; it was a cathartic release, a testament to her skills.

It is no surprise that the crowd was thoroughly charmed and entertained beyond measure.

As the final note faded into the night, she knew she’d given it her all, leaving nothing but her heart and soul on that stage.

As she reaches the familiar backstage area where they had spent the entire afternoon, she exudes palpable excitement, practically launching herself into Javier’s awaiting embrace. He catches her with ease, sensing the electrifying energy coursing through her as her arms wrap tightly around him in a warm hug. With her legs securely wrapped around his waist, he spins her around in a joyful twirl before gently lowering her back to the ground, their shared enthusiasm filling the air with an infectious energy.

“ You did so good, hermosa . ” Javier gazes warmly at her, his lips curved in a genuine smile.

“ That was so exhilarating, holy shit! ” The explicits fly from her lips and this only deepens his amusement, his heart warmed by her spirited expression.

“ Like, I almost blacked out out of excitement. ” Paloma inhales deeply, her chest expanding and contracting with each breath, her heart pounding so vigorously it feels as if it might leap from her chest at any moment.

The rest of the band gathers around, exchanging congratulations and warm embraces. Paloma takes a moment to express her heartfelt gratitude, her voice tinged with sentimentality as she thanks them for steadfastly supporting her seemingly silly musical aspirations.

“ Oh, that reminds me, ” She breaks away from the small group, strolling over to Javier's truck. Retrieving her purse, she rummages inside and retrieves a disposable camera she had brought along for the occasion. “ Can you take a picture of us? ” She asks with a gentle pout, her eyes sparkling as she looks up at Javier.

“ ‘Course.” Javi readily accepts the camera from her hand wordlessly and steps back to make sure they’re all in frame. He snaps the photo, the flash is blinding for the split second it appears before he hands her back the camera.

“ Gracias cowboy. ”

Her voice carries a delightful sweetness tinged with playful flirtation and a touch of eager anticipation that has him feeling like a lovestruck fool.

The band leaves to head back home, the sun now fully settled as Javier and Paloma remain. Their figures casually propped against his truck, casting a relaxed silhouette against the backdrop of the vibrant fair lights sprawled out before them.

“ We should get going–– ”

“ You're kidding, right? ” Paloma interrupts, leveraging herself off the hood of the truck with a fluid motion, positioning herself directly in his line of sight. Her hands find their place firmly on her hips, projecting an aura of assertiveness.

“ No…? ” He says unsurely, his gaze sweeping over her form from head to toe.

“ I haven’t been to the fair since I was a kid. I just have to ride one ride... and indulge in some fried goodness... and maybe try one of those tricky carnival games, ” She shares eagerly, her lower lip caught between her teeth.

She gazes at him with those bewitching eyes of hers, he silently curses himself for knowing he’ll give in.

“ I dunno, princesa , it’s getting pretty late… ” Fighting a fight he knows he’ll lose, he still moves forward with his opposition. The least desirable outcome from staying late would be facing an irate sheriff questioning why his daughter returned home in the dead of night instead of the earlier time she’d promised.

“ Oh don’t be such a stick in the mud. We’re allowed to have fun every once and a while. If it’s my daddy you're worried about; he’ll get over it. ” Paloma draws nearer to him, her hands delicately clasped behind her back, the enchanting fusion of her perfume and her innate scent enthralls him completely.

Javier can't help but surrender to her charm.

“ Fine . ”

A large smile spreads on her crimson tinted lips and she squeals, clapping her hands together before tugging him in the direction of the bustling fair.

–––––––––––––––––––

Their night out together comes with an unforeseen touch of spontaneity. The first thing Paloma does is drag him over to a food stand where she proceeds to order a funnel cake, fried oreos and two way too large lemonades.

“ Fried oreos? ” His nose scrunches at the idea which earns him a soft slap to the arm.

“ They are quite literally the best damn thing to ever be invented. ” She defends the unhealthy snack, reaching into her bag to pull out money to pay but Javier stops her before she gets the chance to.

As he smoothly glides a bill across the counter, Paloma feels a warm flush creep up her cheeks at the simple gesture. A flicker of uncertainty dances in her mind as she ponders the significance of this moment—is it possible that this is... a date?

No , certainly it isn’t. It’s an outing between two friends. He is just being a gentleman and paying for their food. No big deal, right?

In the quiet recesses of her mind, she revisits their flirty exchange shared just moments before she took the stage and the gentle display of affection that followed after her performance had concluded.

Don't overthink it, Paloma, just enjoy the moment.

So, she pushes all those thoughts aside as they patiently wait for their order.

“ I'll be the judge of that. ” He grumbles with his arms folded protectively across his chest.

Paloma finds herself entranced by the sight of him. His torso is adorned in a brightly colored blue shirt that accentuates his handsome features paired with jeans that cling to him sinfully tight. She marvels at how effortlessly he pulls off this 70s-inspired ensemble, a testament to his unique charm and allure. It’s just one more reason among many why she finds him so irresistibly attractive.

Their order number is called and they swiftly collect their things, moving over to an empty picnic table and sitting across from each other.

“ Alright, be prepared to have your mind blown. ” She plucks one of the golden-fried treats from the paper tray and slides the remainder enticingly across the table to him.

Javier eyes the dessert carefully before picking one up and observing it.

“ There is no way this is good for you. ” He remarks skeptically.

“ It's not supposed to be good for you it's supposed to taste good. ” Paloma counters, taking a bite and emitting a satisfied hum at the burst of flavor, “ If that's the case then you shouldn't smoke. There’s no way cigarettes are good for you . ” She mocks him, a playful glint in her eye as he scoffs in response.

Following her lead, he gingerly takes a bite, his brow furrowing at the unexpected taste.

“ Absolutely not, ” He declares, confirming his verdict with a decisive shake of his head.

“ Oh, you are so lame. ” They laugh and she drags the tray over to her side, “ Whatever, more for me. Just please don’t tell me you’re a funnel cake hater too. ” She plops another one into her mouth, her gaze fixated on him and eyes gleaming playfully.

“ Rest assured I’m not a funnel cake hater. It was my favorite growing up. Haven’t had one in ages. ” Now that, Javier easily snacks on as they seamlessly weave through conversations, trading tales of cherished childhood snacks.

Once they finish, he gathers their garbage and goes to dispose of it in a bin nearby. Upon his return to the table, his eyes sweep the surroundings, only to discover that they are no longer in solitude; a small group of individuals has gravitated towards Paloma, eager to engage her in conversation.

Amidst their conversation, he catches fragments of praise floating in the air, surmising that they must be members of the audience who had seen her perform not too long ago.

His suspicions are proven right once they leave and she turns to him with a bright smile.

“ Looks like I’m not your only groupie anymore. ”

“ Oh don't be jealous. You'll always be my favorite. ” As she rises from her seat to join him, he gently intercepts, his gaze fixating on a subtle trace of powdered sugar lingering at the corner of her lips.

“ Hold on… ” He murmurs, stepping closer to her, bringing his thumb up to his lips then wiping away at the spot.

A shiver dances down her spine, her breath catching in her throat as his seemingly simple gesture sends waves of arousal rippling through her. He is driving her crazy .

“ I–– thank you. ” She blushes, “ Oh man, that means I had a whole conversation with food on my face. ” Slightly embarrassed, she slaps her palm against her forehead and he chuckles at her.

“ There are worst things to be embarrassed over. ” He shrugs and she nods,“ So , what now miss I absolutely have to stay and enjoy the fair . ” Javier teases, as they begin to walk around the fairgrounds.

Paloma rolls her eyes, “ You're like an insufferable child. ” She can't help but comment, eyeing some of the rides until she spots the drop tower. “ Ooh, let's do that one. ” She practically races over to the large structure, leaving Javi behind.

“ Who's the child now? ” He murmurs to himself, trailing after her.

Standing in line together, they exchange playful jabs at the people around them in whispered tones. For the first time in a very long time, Javier finds himself genuinely laughing.

“ We have to get on the pendulum ride after this. Oh, and the gravitron. I also really like those spinny swings. ” As she rambles on about her beloved rides, his gaze lingers on her radiant beauty. Particularly since she’s adorned with an enchanting smile and enveloped in laughter. With each joyful expression, Javier feels a familiar tug at his heartstrings, the same irresistible pull he’s been steadfastly pushing aside since their very first encounter.

This is definitely more than just some sexual infatuation. The revelation that he harbors genuine feelings for Paloma weighs heavily in his chest. In that moment of clarity, he understands the need to consider stepping back, for the well-being of them both.

He doesn't want to hurt her.

But for tonight, Javier will let himself enjoy her company and everything that entails to. He grants himself this rare luxury under the guise that it’s for her sake.

“ You're ambitious tryin’ to get on all these rides, querida . Gonna end up puking all your precious fried oreos out. ” They’re at the front of the line now, and as Javier makes his remark, one of the exiting patrons from the ride hurls over and throws up in a nearby bin.

Both Javier and Paloma share a look before breaking out into a harmonious laugh. Paloma finds herself yearning to capture this perfect moment, to preserve its essence in the confines of a frame, forever etched in her memory.

“ Impeccable timing, vaquero . ” They board the ride together, sitting right next to one another and she swings her legs softly as the attendant comes around to make sure they're strapped in properly.

“ I’ve done a lotta dangerous shit in my life but riding one of these seems to be at the top of the list. ” Javier tells her as they begin their ascend to the top.

“ Don’t tell me a little fair ride is more dangerous than an armed drug dealer. ”

“ Drug dealers are predictable. Fair rides aren’t–– how can you actually trust somethin’ that’s disassembled, packed away then rebuilt elsewhere. How are you so sure they build it adequately each time? You’ve seen the people who run this. It’s sketchy. ”

“ Sounds like you're scared. Don't be scared, Javi. Here–– you can hold my hand. ” She extends her hand, reaching out to gently grasp his, intertwining their fingers and applying a tender squeeze. He's not scared he’s just weary, but feeling the weight of her hand in his is enough to fizzle those inconvenient thoughts away as they’re suspended in the air for what feels like forever before they finally drop.

Paloma releases a delighted squeal, erupting into a chorus of giggles as they reach the base of the ride. “ See? That wasn’t too bad. The ride didn’t collapse and we live to see another day. ” With a final squeeze, she relinquishes his hand and they get off the ride swiftly.

Similar scenarios unfold as they explore the other attractions; their banter punctuated by playful jabs at the people in line and Javier meticulously dissects the safety measures (or lack thereof) of each attraction. Despite his scrutiny, he finds himself thoroughly enjoying the experience alongside Paloma.

As they stroll through the carnival game section, Javier’s eyes light up as he catches sight of a tacky looking plush snake, swiftly diverting Paloma’s attention towards it.

“ Isn't that your favorite thing in the world? ” He teases, feigning curiosity, earning an eye roll from Paloma as she playfully pinches his forearm.

“ Not a fan of real snakes and reptiles, you goof, ” She retorts with a grin. “ But I’ve got nothing against a cute little stuffed animal like that. ”

“ Do you want it? ” He asks, gravitating towards the stand and she follows.

“ What, are you gonna win it for me? ” She questions with a flirtatious lilt, twirling a lock of her hair as she raises her eyebrows, a playful sparkle dancing in her chocolate brown eyes.

“ I will, if you want it. ”

“ If I want it that means you have to win it. And you know what they say about these games… ”

Their banter continues as they approach the stand. Javier reads that it’s a baseball toss bottle game and he smiles cockily.

“ What do they say? ”

“ They're rigged and impossible to win. ”

“ Well lucky for you, nena , I've got the best arm in Laredo. ”

Paloma’s interest is piqued, her head tilting slightly as she observes him. “ You play baseball? ” She asks, her tone curious and attentive.

Javier hands over payment to the teenager tending to the stand, effortlessly cradling three baseballs in one hand. This has Paloma licking her lips.

Her gaze is drawn to the rugged contours and sinewy strength, imagining the delicious weight of them against her skin. There's an electric charge in the air, sending shivers of anticipation cascading down her spine.

“ I did. All the way through college. ” Oh she can see him now, clad in those tight baseball uniforms. She bets his ass looks amazing in the pants.

“ The more you know. ” She muses, “ But that was like, all the way back when baseball was first invented. ” She patronizes him, never getting tired of making jokes about his age.

“ Ha, ha. So funny and original. ”

“ Alright darlin’ enough yappin’, let's see Laredo’s best . ” She's fully expecting him to fumble, honestly.

Javier rolls his shoulders, stretching his arms, and Paloma's eyes linger on the way his shirt molds to his defined muscles with each movement. His broad shoulders and flexing biceps command her attention as he effortlessly pulls his arm back and throws the ball with graceful ease.

In one fluid motion, he knocks down all the bottles.

A satisfied smirk graces his lips as he turns to meet Paloma's gaze.

“ Told you. ”

She lets out a low whistle, clapping her hands together in a slow applause. “ Alright, I stand corrected. ” she admits with a smile.

The worker hands Javier the stuffed animal, and he extends it towards her.

“ For you. ”

“ Such a gentleman. ” She murmurs softly, pulling the prize close to her chest. The sight of her holding it with such tenderness is one that will linger in his memory for days to come.

“ Oh shit. ” She begins, a hint of dismay in her tone, but his concern melts away as she retrieves her camera from her bag. “ Forgot to take more pictures. Do you mind gettin’ one with me? ” There's a hint of shyness in her request, and he shakes his head.

“ Don’t mind at all, cariño . ” He assures her with a warm smile.

She returns his smile and proceeds to ask the teenager at the stand to take their photo, who obliges, undoubtedly persuaded by her beauty.

“ Alright we’ll do a smiley one then a silly one. ” She suggests, stepping back to Javier's side and leaning against him, her eyes sparkling as they prepare to capture the moment.

He doesn’t pose, instead, he gazes at her admiringly, wondering how he’ll summon the courage to distance himself from her after tonight.

Paloma tilts her head to meet his gaze after the photos are taken, mirroring the affection in his eyes before stepping away to retrieve her camera.

Javier clears his throat, the sound breaking the carnival’s cheerful din as he glances down at his watch. The hands inch towards midnight, a reminder of the impending end to their evening. “ Los tenemos que ir (we have to go), ” He says softly, his voice carrying a hint of reluctance.

She pouts slightly, pursing her bottom lip.“ One more ride, please Javi. We didn’t get on the ferris wheel. ”

As he’s done all night, Javier acquiesces, unable to resist her earnest plea. “ You are a very persistent and spoiled little thing, ” He remarks, a fondness lacing his words. Her playful smile transforms into a devious smirk at his observation.

“ Thank you. ” She replies, gaze coated with mischief.

The bench-style seating on the ferris wheel feels snug, their bodies nestled close together as the metal bar rests across their laps.

Despite the attendant’s insistence that she couldn’t bring it on the ride, Paloma clung to the plush snake he’d won for her as she (politely) told him to fuck off.

At first, silence envelops them, the rhythmic creaking of the wheel the only sound as they ascend to the pinnacle of the ride. Lost in their own thoughts, they share a quiet intimacy, their hearts beating in synchrony.

The fair lights twinkle and sway, casting an enchanting glow upon Paloma’s face. In that moment, bathed in the ethereal illumination, her beauty is magnified.

“ What's goin' on inside that pretty head of yours? ” Javier breaks the quiet between them, and she turns her head to meet his gaze.

“ Tonight has been one of the best nights I’ve had in a while... and you’re part of the reason. ” She confesses, her voice sincere, melting the barriers he’s long held onto.

“ It has nothing to do with me and everything to do with you, palomita . ” He responds, his arm draped along the back of their seat. Unable to resist, she leans in closer, finding solace in the warmth of his embrace.

His smell envelops her, intoxicating her senses as she inhales the earthy musk of his cologne mingled with a hint of sweetness from their shared meal earlier.

“ I mean it, Javi. Ever since you came to Seminary my life has been a lot more… fun . ” She tells him earnestly, her voice barely above a whisper. Their proximity is electric, teetering on the edge of temptation, and her words only add fuel to the fire.

Her name escapes his lips like a solemn prayer, a gentle reminder of the boundaries they’re dancing dangerously close to. Their lips barely graze each other, his mustache tickling the sensitive skin above her lip, a silent testament to the unspoken desires lingering between them.

Suddenly, the ride lurches with an unexpected jolt, shattering the tender moment between them. Paloma swiftly withdraws, seeking whatever space their cramped confines afford her, her fingers clenching the metal bar for stability.

“ Told you I didn't trust these damn things. ” He mutters, his palm clammy as he rubs it against the coarse denim of his jeans. His throat tightens with a heavy swallow, the memory of their fleeting moment lingering in his mind like a fading dream.

Silence cloaks them like a heavy blanket for the remainder of the ride and even as they walk side by side to his truck.

No words pass between them.

Paloma leans against the window, mirroring her posture from the ride up, exhaustion seeping into her bones after the long day. She resists the urge to dwell on the events of the evening with Javier, instead surrendering to the pull of sleep. Her eyelids flutter closed, and soon, she drifts unconscious.

Javier steals a sideways glance at her, strands of hair cascading over her features like a veil. Amidst the quiet hum of the car, he catches the faint melody of her soft snores.

His shoulders slump in resignation as he replays their moment on the ferris wheel in his mind, each iteration leaving him more conflicted than before. Would they have shared a kiss if not for the technical issue?

He wants to believe they wouldn’t have; that he would have had the strength to pull away before it was too late. But the allure of her lips, the desire to taste her, lingers in his thoughts like an unshakeable temptation.

Gripping the steering wheel tightly, he wrestles with his inner turmoil for the duration of the journey back to Seminary.

–––––––––––––––––––

“ I'm still so upset I couldn’t go. It woulda been so fun. ” Sloane remarks from her spot on Paloma’s bed, idly flipping through a magazine while her friend meticulously applies nail polish.

Days have passed since the state fair, leaving Paloma and Javier in an awkward limbo. She despises the distance that has grown between them. How could she have been so foolish as to ruin their night by coming off as strong as she had? Everything had been going perfectly until then. Had she scared him off? Was his silence a sign of disinterest?

It's all so fucking confusing.

“ Uh, hello. Earth to Paloma. ” Slo snaps her fingers and this gets her attention, looking up from her hand to meet her friend's gaze.

“ Sorry, I wish you coulda been there too. ” She gives her a tight lipped smile and this has Sloane narrowing her eyes at her.

“ Alright, spill. What happened? ”

She snorts, shaking her head and returning to the task at hand. “ Nothin’ happened. ”

“ Lie to somebody who doesn’t know you. ” She shifts from her spot on the mattress, sprawling herself on the floor in front of Paloma.

She eyes her friend briefly before letting out a sigh and twisting the cap on the polish. “ Fine. I think I fucked things up between me and Javier. ”

That was certainly not what Sloane was expecting her to admit, but she’s intrigued nevertheless and she turns to lay on her side, head in her hand and elbow propping her up.

“ Don't tell me you slept with him. ”

Paloma's face flushes, despite having a plethora of erotic dreams starring the man in question, “ Wha–– No. I didn’t. Jesus… ” She mutters, attempting to blow the polish on her right hand dry. “ We actually had a great night. ” She can't help the small smile that plays on her lips at the remembrance of said night.

“ Okay… ” Sloane urges her to continue, “ For a songwriter you sure are a shit storyteller. ”

Paloma flips her off and Slo blows her a kiss, “ Things between us have always been flirty. It was fun at first, exhilaratin’ and what not. Then… feelings started developin’. I like him, Slo. Like him like him. ” It's the first time she's said this outloud and the confession has her feeling lightheaded.

“ Awe, my baby is growin’ up. She's got a crush. ” Her friend teases, poking at her exposed calf.

“ Yeah, well, I don’t even know if he feels the same way. I mean, at first I thought he did then I… we almost kissed on the ferris wheel and he hasn't talked to me since. ”

Sloane flashes her a sympathetic stare, “ Well he’s an idiot for not kissin’ you. Let’s start there. ” She sits upright, matching Paloma's stance, “ Are you really surprised? Not to burst your little schoolgirl crush bubble but it’s obvious what typa man he is. Flirty, handsome, charismatic. Sex on legs –– a long trail of broken hearts follow that man. C'mon, baby, you must know this. ”

Paloma is keenly aware of his reputation as a charming playboy, a fact that’s far from concealed. Now, she’s flooded with feelings of foolishness and embarrassment for how she had openly pursued him. It was almost inevitable; of course, he would reciprocate her advances. After all, what man could resist when a beautiful woman is vying for his attention?

The thought that he might have lost interest gnaws at her, causing an ache in her chest. Aside from all the romantic stuff, she genuinely enjoyed his company.

She chooses not to dwell further on the topic, and her friend seems to pick up on her reluctance.

In a sudden twist of conversation, Sloane announces, “ Guess who has a house now. ” Paloma’s attention perks up in surprise.

“ What, really? Since when? ” From what she knows, Sloane and a few others have been living long term at the only motel in town. They hadn’t intended on staying in Seminary very long which is why Paloma had gotten her the job at the bar in the first place, so she could save up some money to keep trekking.

Hearing that she now has an actual place to call home brings nothing but joy and excitement for her friend.

“ Since a few days ago. We've been so damn busy that I haven’t been able to tell you. Completely unexpected, too. Apparently some broad August used to know finally croaked and she left him with her entire estate. ”

Paloma's eyes widen at the news, “ Jeez, talk about impeccable timing. I'm glad y'all got it worked out. Now you’re stuck here with me. ” She jests, “ When can I visit? ”

Sloane taps the tip of her chin, “ What about tomorrow? It's about an hour drive from here–– ”

“ An hour?! ” Paloma interjects, incredulous.

“ –– and it’s beautiful . You’d love it. Don’t get hung up on somethin’ as trivial as travel time . ”

Sloane’s right, outside from the hub in town; their residence is situated in a predominantly rural expanse, making lengthy travel times like that unusual. And with her car now up and running, Paloma has a newfound sense of freedom to explore beyond their immediate surroundings.

“ Fine, tomorrow sounds good. You can stay the night and I’ll drive you there in the morning. ” She offers, prompting Sloane to break out into a giant grin.

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