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dcxdpdabbles · 6 months

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I love every fic That has Danny still being Phantom even while in the DC universe but sometimes I just want my little guy to flex his intellect and be all around little mad scientist that only sometimes uses his powers to pick up a screwdriver

Danny is smart.

He knows he is brilliant.

He may have been outshined by his family when he was younger, but that was because his focus was on something else, and frankly, being born last into a family of geniuses made one feel like one wasn't as intelligent as them.

He constantly compared himself to them, knowing that they had already achieved what he was doing and falling further and further behind in his self-wellow.

Then Danny left Amity Park and went into the real world.....he found his intelligence got him far. Danny was exceptionally brilliant when he was working on machinery, chemistry, and, above all else, engineering.

Maybe it had something to do with watching his parents repurpose any household item into a completely new technology that affected beings from different dimensions simply because they used math.

Or maybe it was that his brain was always moving, always connecting, and constantly processing. Danny didn't realize that people couldn't just make whatever idea came into their heads a reality.

Hell, his dad heard about Mr. Freeze's ray and he made a copy in two months. Danny made Mr. Freeze's ray in two weeks. He made other ghost tech in that same amount or enough to arm his schoolmates in one afternoon.

The point is that Danny is good at what he does. Put a screwdriver in huis hand, and he be off until whatever hair brain idea he had a physical form.

Everyone in Amity Park knew this as a fact about the Fentons/ Since they moved in, there was nothing but experiments one right after the other. Sure, they wasted it on things like Ecto-studies, but his parents made their money from somewhere before the world learned about ghosts.

Danny's parents had many, and he means many, patents. Everything from a brand of microwaves to vehicle parts.

His parents created them, sold them to partial rights to companies, and then wasted whatever money they got on some new experiment for a ghost that had not yielded any fortunes.

He thought he could do the same. Just apply to anywhere that would take him after creating a portable phone changer on one's wrist. He figured it would have gotten less attention than he did hadn't he just shown up at Wayne Expo as an unknown inventor through his parents contacts.

Danny had felt relatively small with his foldable plastic table and his four cardboard boxes of his invention while everyone had booths and screens, and a few even had prominent speakers with people in suits that cost more than his house

. Danny felt like a little kid trying to sell lemonade in the five-star hotel lobby. Everyone walked right by him without a glance, or they jeered and mocked him.

That was until Bruce Wayne wandered over. Kind and charming the man, maybe he wasn't the brightest- but he stood there listening to Danny excitedly explain how moving the hand on the bracelet caused it to charge, so walking around with it was all the kinetic energy it needed.

His ward- Dick Grayson, in all his tiny ten-year-old authority, had purchased a bracelet from Danny. It had been the only sale he made that night, but it was the only one he needed. Bruce had called him to offer him a position at WE.

Like his parents, Danny enjoyed his freedom, so instead, he offered to be a freelance inventor. He would show the Wayne's first dibs but go where the wind took him. He made them if he found buyers who weren't trying to ice him out of profits.

Unlike his parents, he didn't waste the funds past his travels. Slowly but surely building up a fortune over time.

Danny still went out as Phantom, but over the years he invented random gadgets and chemicals that he would ship to Bruce for a healthy paycheck. Ussually he makes something that the rich man off-handedly comments on.

"Oh Danny, I just loved skydiving, but I'm scared Dick's parachute will get stuck."

Danny invented one with small rocket blasters Bruce could manually control into landing for his son.

"I always enjoy undersea diving. The tanks are a killer on my back. Jason was almost weighted down by them too."

Danny created a breathing mask that had the tanks in smaller easier-to-carry cylinders.

"Tim really loves his computers. Wish I could take the whole thing with me when I go out!"

Danny had a working computer on a heliographic wristwatch the next month.

It was awesome. Danny traveled a lot but always found time to call and speak with Bruce. He got to know the man well over the years, found himself chatting with him for hours, and even spent his visits to Gotham at Wayne Manor as a guest.

Bruce's kids were a riot to be around. He would often go away for a while only to return and find that they had grown in numbers. He loved them like his own and found himself a confidant among the children.

It was he that Dick called to whispers about his insecurity within Bruce's home. He would go to all the gymnastics and mathletes shows he could catch, cheering the loudest among the rich parents as Dick outshone the rest of the children.

Danny had practically flown home to rip Bruce a new one until the man admitted to his gapping son that he had applied to be his father mere months after taking him in.

It was Danny that Jason spoke to when Dick and Bruce's fights were too loud. He would take the boy on trips, and talk for hours about books to calm down, then he had sat Bruce and Dick down to rip another new one.

It was no surprise that Jason had called him when he had tried to run away to confront his birth mother. He had been there to see the bitch arrested before she could hurt Jason.

It was Danny that Tim often sought out to showcase his photos. He always made sure to call the boy right before he was meant to sleep, regardless of which part of the world Danny was on, to wish him goodnight and talk about their days.

Tim always brightened whenever Danny caught his skateboard competitions or club performances. He was the one who found out Tim's biological parents neglected him after the boy told him, and he was the one to help Bruce win custody.

Then came Damian, who was as scared as he was angry. Danny adored him and saw so many ghost-like mannerisms in him that connecting to the boy wasn't hard at all.

Bruce didn't seem to understand that his son was used to outlined expectations and grew irritable when he felt he failed them. He was the one that help Damian get used to his environment and was the one the boy was much more willing to try new things with.

Steph and Danny often got along well with their sense of humor, but mostly she followed him around, seeking approval that likely missed out from her parents. They would sit down and talk about her future and what she wanted in life, and he even let her practice her makeup on him and giggle about boys.

Sometimes, it felt like she didn't have to be the tough girl from the rough part of town. She could be a teenage girl without a care in the world. At least, that's what she claimed Danny made her feel like.

Cass didn't talk much, but she didn't have to for Danny to not see how much she enjoyed their days out, too.

He loved taking her to see the arts, to sit and listen to music together, and most of all, to see her slowly bloom into a sociable young lady so different from the closed-off girl that first arrived at Wayne Manor.

Duke was still relatively new, but Danny could spot the wild, unhinged look in his eye that would have made him a proper Fenton. The two often spent their time playing video games and working in the community together.

Duke seemed to enjoy when Danny invited him to tag along on short trips, especially when the two would go camping. As someone who grew up in the city, he had never been fishing until Danny taught him how to reel in a big one at a lake a state over. The whole Wayne family had cheered the dark skin boy on as he held the trout over his head for the photo.

Alfred treated him like one of the family sometimes meeting up with Danny on his travels for a cup of tea or a nice phone call to gossip about Bruce.

Danny loved it but adored when the Waynes would help with his inventions. Even if all they did was sit in his makeshift lab inside his RV or the west wing of Wayne Manor like Bruce did, having them made his hands fly faster and his calculations sharper.

Sometimes, he caught the strangest, softest look on Bruce's face when Danny would be wielding.

Danny was so used to this lifestyle that he would forget about his ghost powers. It's not like he really needed them.

That came to head when he returned to Gotham on a whim, wanting to surprise Bruce for his birthday by taking the other man out to dinner somewhere fancy he happened to stumble across the scene of Scarecrow holding the Waynes- his Waynes- as hostages at an award ceremony in the new mental hospital they had funded.

Danny hadn't thought.

He saw the Fear Gas vents open and pulled one of his gadgets. He threw it as hard as he could at Scarecrow, watching with satisfaction as it bounced off the manic's head- knocking him out and spinning in place as it activated.

It was a miniature vacuum- meant to gather pollution in the air to hopefully clean up their planet- sucking in all the green smoke before it could harm.

He three out of the other five at the goons that had tried to gas the spectators before, pressing his anti-gravity plates- reversing them to slam the goons into a heap and officially knocking them out.

Danny took down the Rouge in under a minute.

"Bruce! Kids! Are you alright?" He cried rushing the stage to the stunned family. He helped them out of their bonds, gentelly tracing the bruise on Bruce's face with a soft whine. "They hurt you."

"I'm alright, darling," Bruce muttered, leaning into his palm. "I'm better with you here. What was that?"

"Oh just a-"

"Look out!" Dick suddenly screams as a flash of ice comes from nowhere. Danny tucks Bruce onto his chest and rolls away from the ray's pathway. They land with his friend on his back and Danny leaning over him in a protective hunch.

Quickly, he stops his foot against the ice, pressing the heel back and watching bursts of electricity from his built-in tazer race up the ice to the beam of Dr. Freeze.

The man doesn't have time to react before spamming and hitting the ground. Danny scoffs. "Using a ray with a cryogenic laser beam so last season. Invent something new, you one act poney."

Bruce stares up at him with those soft eyes again, and Danny smiles now that he is sure the Danger is gone.

"Is there nothing that mind of yours can't do?" Bruce asks and Danny laughs helping him to his feet as police swarm the place.

"Find me a date, maybe." Danny jokes, "I haven't had one since you took in Dick.""

"Neither has Father!" Damian shouts from behind them. Danny bemussingly watches the young boy march up to gesture at the mortified-looking man.

Despite his father's obvious embarrassment, Damian does not seem bothered to shout for everyone to hear. "He may swing both ways but hasn't acquired a suitable spouse. What says you, Danny? You could assist in correcting this error."

"Sure, I'll take him out." Danny laughs, patting the boy on his shoulder, knowing he hates to have his hair touched. Damian all but melts into his hand like his father seemingly smug. "I know a great club to meet some great people in Metropolis!"

Damian's smug look fades away as Bruce's eyes fall. "I meant for you to be Father's sp-"

"Danny, would you mind explaining those tazer shoes?" Bruce cuts in, throwing a arm over the inventor's shoulder. "They were dazzling!"

"Oh, Bruce, I'm always happy to explain my creations!"

Damian pouts as the two walk away, acting like a married couple to the scattered spectators. If only his Father would just man up and tell Danny that he's practically been his second Father all these years, they need to officiate it.

Tim sighs, placing a hand like Danny did on his shoulder. "It's okay, Dami. This time, we will surely succeed in the Parent Trap plan. Maybe before Danny gets lost in the lab trying to invent a way to warp travel."

"Don't even joke, Tim," Jason says. "Danny would figure that out. He created the Zeta Beams to make it to my senior play. He'll figure out warping if we ask him to."

"Dad's the best," Steph laughs, and they all agree, determined more than ever to make Parent Trap happen.

Master Post Link

#dcxdpdabbles #dc x dp crossover #Freelance Inventor #Danny is so smart he casually revolutionizes tech #He's not aware of the Bats #He's still somehow their Dad #And Bruce is in love with him'#The bat kids are going to Parent Trap them #spirit halloween

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frost-queen · 1 month

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It comes with perks (Reader x Jake 'Hangman' Seresin)

Requested by: anon Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22, @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly @denkisclown, @wildieflower, @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @justanothercoco, @subjecta13-thefangirl, @m-rae23, @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr, @swampthing07, @melsunshine, @panhoeofmanyfandoms, @venomsvl, @the-uncoordinated-house-cat, @rosecentury, @imagines-by-her, @evilcr0ne, @vviolynn

Summary: When you need someone to be your fake boyfriend to get you out of a situation with your ex, Hangman is the closest guy you find. What needed to be a one time thing, turned out into a long term act of fake dating. Certainly now that your dad Iceman is involved in as well. Slowly the lines of fake dating fade as Hangman becomes obessed with you, a ray of sunshine. When your ex tries to get back in your life, Jake becomes protective, finally ending those unclear lines of fake dating.

Phoenix and you entered Penny’s bar when your phone suddenly rang. Taking it out, the nametag on it made your eyes widen. You touched Phoenix on her shoulder, letting her know you needed a moment. She simply smiled, heading further into the bar to the booth were Bob, Coyote and Fanboy already were. The phone kept buzzing as you weren’t sure what to do. Panicking a bit as to say. You knew not picking up, would do nothing as he would just keep calling you.

Answering was even terrible, as you knew he’d say anything to get you to yield. Like a collective caller, kept he calling you. Looking around frantically, you spotted the first person at Penny’s bar. You rushed over to the bar, pulling Hangman back by his shoulder. – “Emergency, you’re my boyfriend.” – you breathed out, holding the phone out to him. Hangman smiled cocky. – “Well, well. If you were desperate for a kiss, you’d just had to ask Y/n.” – Hangman replied all smug to your annoyance.

“No. No! You’re not actually my boyfriend.” – you informed him hastily. Hangman furrowed his brows, frowning. – “Make up your mind girl.” – he let out confused to what was happening. You moved your phone higher up for him to notice. – “I need you to be my boyfriend and make him stop calling me!” – you called out almost frantically at how slow he was catching up.

“Right.” – He simply said, setting a beer down and taking your phone in his hand. He answered the phone, giving you a cheeky eyebrow wiggle. Hangman didn’t even listen to what the other person was saying on the phone. – “Listen bud, stop calling my girlfriend.” – he spoke through. He heard an immediate response. – “Uhm her boyfriend.” – Hangman answered, showing you a goofy look at how obvious it was who he was talking to.

The man kept blabbing in his ear as Hangman had little interest in keeping him on the phone. – “Stop calling us, bye.” – he spoke in such a manufactured voice, he could work in sales and be dealing with a terrible customer but still upholding his work voice. Hangman hung up, giving you the phone back. – “Thank you!” – you let out relieved, bending a bit through your knees out of gratitude. – “So what do I get in return?” – Hangman asked.

“This beer?” – you suggested, placing your hand on the counter by it. Hangman tsked his tongue. – “Already paid for it sunshine.” – he said with a chuckle. – “Fine.” – you breathed out. – “I’ll clean your locker.” – you took out another suggestion as Hangman thought. – “How about wash my clothes?” – he responded. – “Deal.” – you agreed it was just that. Hangman shook hands with you to seal the deal.

He picked up his beer, throwing his arm over your shoulder. – “Who was the dude anyways?” – he asked, leading you to the others. – “My ex.” – you sighed out. Hangman looked half in shock at you. – “I didn’t know you dated someone.” – he called out as you had to shush his loud voice. – “It was like 6 months ago.” – you informed him.

“And he’s still calling you?” – Hangman blurted out as you hummed with a nod as response. – “I can’t shake him off.” – you sighed out nearing the booth with your friends. – “Well good thing your boyfriend saved the day.” – Hangman winked with a ridiculous smile. – “Not my boyfriend.” – you reminded him before sitting down.

Back in the locker room, you were washing Hangman’s attire. Washing them by hand as he called them delicate and needed to be handled with care. – “Uhm what are you doing?” – Phoenix asked seeing you in the locker room as she had walked by. – “Are those Hangman’s clothing?” – she pointed out when you had pulled it up to see if it was clean enough, revealing his nametag. – “Phoenix!” – you called out startled, splashing some water as your arms lowered immediately. – “Why are you washing his clothes?” – she wanted to know. – “I owe it to him.” – you responded, scrubbing his pilot gear.

“You dared to bet with Hangman. Bold.” – she answered impressed. – “It’s not that.” – you told her with a soft sigh. – “He did something for me, so I have to return the favour.” – you explained. – “Right.” – Phoenix widened her eyes briefly in delight. – “If your dad could see you know.” – she chuckled a bit. – “He’d flip that you fell so low.” You grunted soft. – “Good thing my dad.” – you emphasized. – “Can’t see me.” – you replied bitsy. – “Ohh cold touch.” – Phoenix teased touching her own shoulder. You scooped up some water, splashing it at her to wipe that smile off her face.

Phoenix screamed, dodging away when the water came her way. Half laughing, you teasing her with another scoop as she already darted away. When you were finished up with Hangman’s uniforms, you hung them neatly to dry. You came out of the lockers, making your way out of the hangar when you got pulled aside by Rooster. He pushed you firm up against the wall. – “Are you dating Hangman?” – called out at the brink of losing his mind. – “What?” – you responded confused.

“Are you dating him?” – Rooster wanted to know with a stern look. – “What, no, no…” – you replied waving your hands across. Rooster exhaled deep moving his fingers through his hair. – “Who told you this?” – you asked curious. – “Hangman has been bragging to everyone he’s dating you.” – Rooster let you know. Your eyes widened with shock.

You pushed Rooster a bit back, to make some room for you to leave. You needed to find Hangman and you needed to find him now. Jogging out of the hangar into the open. You saw a group of people near the F16’s going over to them. The closer you got, the clearer you saw Hangman amongst them.

“Hangman!” – you shouted drawing his attention. – “Looks like my girlfriend needs me.” – he said to Fanboy and Coyote all smug. Coyote rolled with his eyes as Fanboy shook his head. Hangman turned round to you, welcoming you with a warm smile. – “Yes my love.” – he said as you grabbed him firmly by the arm, dragging him away from the others. – “So eager.” – Hangman whispered to his friends with a chuckle. You came to a stop, letting harshly go of him.

“What are you doing?” – you called out giving him a little shove. – “Au.” – Jake mouthed pretending to be hurt from your shove. – “Jake!” – you called out wanting an answer out of him. – “What?” – he replied loud, making himself taller. – “Why are you telling everyone we are dating?” – you freaked out. Jake scoffed loud, turning his head away. – “Are we not?” – he answered cocky, wanting to slip his arm over your shoulder. It made you puff annoyed, crossing your arms.

“Oh come on Y/n, don’t be such a baby about it.” – Jake said taking you by the elbow, wanting you to uncross your arms. – “It’s a joke, sunshine.” – he kept tugging at your arm, trying to be smooth and cool at the same time. – “Sunshine!” – you suddenly heard loud, making you straighten your back. Hangman’s back straightened as well. Cyclone appeared coming to you. – “Iceman wants to speak to you.” – he said firmly, making your shoulders slouch. Jake was snickering quietly at you with a little point. – “He asked for both of you!” – Cyclone made clear, making Jake’s smile drop.

You tugged on his elbow, pulling him with you. Following Cyclone inside and up the stairs to Iceman’s desk. Cyclone knocked on the door, before popping his head inside. – “They are present.” – he said to Iceman. Cyclone stepped aside, expression flat as he allowed you to walk in. – “Tell me, am I hanging?” – Jake whispered to Cyclone wanting to know his outcome. Cyclone ignored him, giving him an extra shove into the room. – “Dad!” – you said with mixed expectations, opening your arms to a hug.

Iceman got up from behind his desk, coming to hug you. – “How is my little girl?” – he asked. – “Flying and thriving.” – you told him, making him form a smile on his lips. His gaze then shifted to Jake, who swallowed nervously. Iceman got all serious. He went to sit again, gesturing for you to sit as well. Jake and you sat down, unsure what to expect. – “So you are the one dating my daughter.” – Iceman spoke. – “Dad no…” – you blurted out, waving your hands across.

Iceman observed Hangman closely as it made him move uncomfortable in the chair. – “How’s his flying?” – he asked. – “Superb… sir.” – Jake replied loudly, humbling himself immediately. Iceman glanced your way. You could only smile sheepishly at him. – “I’m a bit saddened you didn’t tell me Y/n.” – Iceman began. – “But he looks decent enough. As long as he doesn’t hurt you… or else…” – Iceman gave Hangman his death stare.

Jake swallowed again. – “Dad we’re not…” – you began wanting to explain as Jake grabbed your hand out of the blue. – “No, no sunshine, it’s okay. He knows now.” – Jake spoke upholding the image of dating. You stared confused at him, why he would even want to go on with his stupid joke. – “Jake, this is my dad.” – you said between clenched teeth to him. Making it clear that he didn’t need to mess around. – “I’m so happy for you Y/n.” – Iceman said cheery.

“The man’s happy Y/n, let him be.” – Jake said to guilt trip you. You sighed soft letting yourself fall back in the chair. Jake got up. – “Well it was nice of you to call us in, sir.” – Jake said, nudging you to get up as well. Your dad chuckled happily at his manners as you could only roll your eyes. Jake extended his hand out to Iceman. Iceman took it to shake. – “I’m not one for favours, but if you ever need one for my daughter.” – he whispered to Jake with a wink.

Jake breathed out a laugh of surprise, glancing your way. Just to rub his it more in your face. – “Now we must really go.” – Hangman spoke tapping your elbow, to get you to follow. – “Give her a kiss.” – Iceman replied. Jake’s expression dropped. – “S’cuse me?” – he blurted out. – “Give her a kiss.” – he repeated gesturing at you.

Jake looked sheepishly at you, chuckling nervously. – “Sir truly…” – Jake began wanting to talk his way out of it. – “I want to see just how much you care for my daughter.” – Iceman persisted. Hangman took your hand, pulling you closer to give a kiss on the cheek. – “Give her a real kiss!” – Iceman shouted out of good sports. Jake sighed loud with a soft drop of his gaze. You raised your eyebrow at him, curious to see what he would do. He took you by the elbow, pulling you even closer.

“Just a quick one.” – he whispered to you. – “One second.” – you responded. Hangman held his finger up to his lips, looking all smug. He lowered his finger, giving you a quick nod before he’d kiss you. Your lips touched for a split second, pulling away quick. Iceman shook his head with disappointment. – “We have to go dad!” – you called out, opening the door. Dragging Jake with you out of his office. Downstairs, you let go of Jake.

“Your joke just escalated Hangman. Now my dad knows!” – you called out panicking. – “Hey you asked me to be your boyfriend.” – Jake replied loud. – “For like a few seconds.” – you shouted back. – “You asked for this Y/n.” - Jake answered loud taking off. – “Where are you going?” – you called out to him. Jake turned around, pulling his shoulders up. It made you groan loud.

Phoenix and you were stretching before exercise. – “Boyfriend coming over.” – she pointed out, turning her torso, holding her arm by her elbow. You looked up seeing Hangman come over with the other boys. It made you look at her with a certain glance. Phoenix stopped, walking off when Hangman came near. She joined the others behind him. – “You know for a sunshine, you frown a lot.” – he pointed out, touching your forehead.

You slapped his hand away. He grabbed you by the shoulders, moving his head closer to you. – “Smile, your dad is going to watch.” – he whispered making you widen your eyes. Jake moved aside from you, throwing his arm over you as he led you to the others. Maverick, Cyclone and Iceman neared. You all followed Maverick to the beach for a match of rugby. A good team exercise Maverick would call it. Cyclone and Iceman sat down, watching the pathetic play of rugby.

Hangman and you were on opposite teams. Fanboy had the ball, throwing it at Coyote. Hangman jumped in front of him, catching the football before his eyes. He then ran with it to your side, throwing his hard on the ground. He called it out in victory, pointing towards Iceman. Iceman clapped for Hangman’s score. He then looked all smug at you. Phoenix nudged you as you rolled your eyes at him. Trying not to find it sweet. Rooster caught the ball wanting to throw it at you. You caught it, wanting to run when you got picked up from the ground.

Hangman had picked you up, making you squeal loud out of surprise. Your feet hit the ground again, as he kept his arms around you. – “Try getting out of this now, sunshine.” – he breathed out. You wriggled in his grip for freedom. When you weren’t getting any, you tried running. Hangman laughed loud, squeezing his arms tighter around you. – “Where are you going sunshine?” – he laughed out. You tried so hard not to laugh as well, not to enjoy it too, but you failed.

You stopped trying to run, laughing loud. You tossed the football over to Bob. You showed him your empty hands, showing him his attempt to stop you failed. Hangman picked you up in response, making you squeal again. He then pressed a kiss on your cheek so quick, he barely caught himself doing it. You turned round in his embrace, staring a bit at him. Jake stared back at you.

Swallowing, he let go of you, scratching his neck sheepishly. You looked blissful away. The two of you hesitantly got back into the game, questioning whether you were actually starting to like each other or that it was the drive of fake dating for a while now.

After practise, you were all exhausted. Having been playing till the sun had set. Worn out, you all decided to grab a few drinks at Penny’s bar. You went up to her bar as Jake followed. Almost instinctively. You held four fingers up to Penny, ordering beer. Jake leaned with his elbows on the counter, throwing you a smug smile. Your phone vibrated in your pocket. Confused, you pulled it out holding it to the front. Jake’s eye fell on the caller, taking the phone from your hand before you could react.

He picked up, turning around to lean against the counter with his back. – “What do you want?” – he said bothered. Your ex didn’t even have to finish his sentence when Jake spoke again. – “Listen asshole, if you call her one more time. I’ll make sure you’ll never see daylight again. You won’t see me coming. I’ll fly above your house, aiming for your pathetic bedroom and you’ll be burned to crisps in a matter of seconds.” – Jake threatened making you stare in shock at him.

“She doesn’t want you cause I’m her boyfriend. She’s mine and let me tell you ass, I don’t like sharing.” – Jake said over the phone. – “This was your last call or you’re dead!” – he angrily hung up the phone. – “Thank… thank you…” – you said astonished by how hot that was. Jake tugged your phone in his pocket.

Penny arrived with the drinks as he took them, motioning with his head for you to follow. You slid into a booth with him as the others were waiting. Hangman threw an arm over your shoulder, pushing you closer to him. It made you feel like squealing. The lines of pretend and real blurring away. Jake caught you staring at him, melting as he saw you smile like the sun back at him. He moved his head closer to you, wanting to kiss you in that moment, but caught himself just in time.

He shifted his head to the side, kissing your cheek instead. It didn’t feel satisfying, but he wouldn’t dare himself to kiss you out of the blue with everyone around. Your friends were so used to the two of you dating, they hardly had any eye for it. Not clear it was all an act, started from a joke. After an hour or two, checked Jake his watch. – “I’m taking Y/n home.” – he said removing his arm from you. He got out of the booth, taking you with him.

You said goodbye to the others. Jake grabbed your hand, walking out of Penny’s bar with you. Outside he was still holding your hand as it made you snicker soft. – “No one’s watching Hangman.” – you told him. Hangman looked at you with eyes full of affection. – “I know.” – he responded, pausing you. – “Are we still faking it?” – he asked catching you by surprise. Unsure, you pulled your shoulders up. That seemed to answer Hangman enough as he cupped your cheeks, kissing your lips.

The kiss was long, anticipating the moment till he could finally kiss you. His tender kiss moved to longing and desperation as his hands grabbed you tightly. You kissed him back, fully surrendering under his spell. The lines of fake dating having been shattered long ago.

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lesbianloml · 5 months

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my babysitter au

the first kiss

types of piece(s): imagine, oneshot, drabble, series

type(s) of writing: smut, angst, fluff, dark (the story will contain all of the above)

pairing(s): milf!dom!dark!wanda maximoff x innocent!sub!immune!witch!fem!reader

warning(s): legal age gap (wanda is 33, reader is 21), obsessive wanda, sorta pervy wanda, maybe?, nothing mostly fluff and plot shit

summary: wanda met you for the first time three days ago. when she runs into you again at the bake sale at the elementary school, she is thrilled. but wanda is overjoyed when the two of you make a deal that will let her see you everyday.

a/n: I know I've been gone FOREVER but I'm back with part 2 of this series. I hope you guys like it, and if you have any ideas or requests, let me know!

you groan as you lean over and press snooze on your alarm. 5am is way too early to wake up, but you need to finish baking and packaging all the treats for the bake sale this afternoon. you sigh, before climbing out of bed and beginning your morning routine. you shower, put on a cute brown mini dress before heading to the café. you sigh as you look around the empty shop, before pulling on an apron and starting your work.

*hours later*

you startle awake at the sound of your phone ringing. you gasp as you check the time. its 3:30pm, the bake sale starts in 30 minutes, and you haven't even begun to load everything up and set up your table. you check the caller id. dottie. you sigh heavily before answering the call. "hello?" you ask, your voice sugary sweet. "y/n y/l/n! where in the world are you? you were supposed to be here an hour ago to help set up! you're 21 years old, you should be more responsible than this!" as dottie rambles on and on, you sigh. "dottie? give me 5 minutes, I'm on my way." you hang up, ignoring her protests as you quickly load your car with the wrapped treats from the bakery, all made by you.

you speed down the road, and quickly turn into the almost full school parking lot. you scramble out of your car and as you close your door, you turn to be face to face with wanda. "wanda! you scared me!" wanda smiles at your expression. "sorry, detka. you're here for the bake sale right?" wanda asks, looking at you with a look you're unable to read. "yup thats what im here for." wanda turns quickly as two boys come speeding around the parking lot. "billy, tommy! come here. I have someone i want you to meet." you gasp as the boys come speeding past you, a silver blue blur before coming to a halt in front of you.

"y/n, this is billy and tommy. billy and tommy, this is y/n." you smile, looking at them both kindly. "which one of you is super speedy?" you ask. "I am!" tommy pronounces proudly. "would you two like to help me set up my booth?" "we would love to, y/n!" billy says. strangely formal for a 10 year old, but you don't question it. for the next 15 minutes, you spend with the boys, laughing and giggling at tommy's antics as they help you set up your booth. it gets done much quicker with the maximoff's help then it's would've if you had done it alone.

you smile at the sight of your booth, ready just in time as all the parents and children begin filing in. "as a thank you for your help, you three get first pick of the treats." you say, gesturing to the variety of sweet treats you have set out on your table. tommy immediately goes for a huge triple chocolate cookie. you laugh, sharing a shy glance with wanda. billy walks slowly over to the table, and carefully surveys his options before choosing a cupcake with sprinkles. wanda walks over to the table after the boys scatter to go say hi to their friends. wanda grabs a cinnamon pastry and pops it in her mouth. her eyes brighten as she chews slowly. "did you make all of this on your own, y/n?" you smile sheepishly. "yes, i did. do you like it?" you ask, subtly asking for her approval. as wanda finishes chewing, she lets out a soft moan of satisfaction. a faint blush coats your cheeks at the noise, your eyes drifting to places they shouldn't.

"y/n? did you hear me?" wanda asks sweetly. people are beginning to drift over to your booth, the wonderful delectable smells drawing them. "sorry wanda. what was that?" you turn your attention to her for a moment before beginning to serve the customers in front of you. "i would just like to speak to you after the bake sale, ok darling?" dottie approaches the table, eyes on wanda to drag her off somewhere. "of course wanda! ill meet you in a little while" you say, flashing her a sweet smile. you continue serving the lengthy growing line in front of you, your attention drifting back to where it needs to be.

wanda's jaw drops as she sees you in your car speeding around the corner. wanda walks swiftly over to your car, standing behind your car door. "wanda! you scared me!" wanda smiles at your face expression. just you saying her name in your pretty little voice, it slipping out your plump lips. it makes her want to bend you over right here and make you scream it. "sorry, detka. you're here for the bake sale aren't you?" she mentally curses herself. what a stupid question, of course that's what you're here for. she feels like an idiot, but you don't even seem to notice. "yup, that's what i'm here for!" wanda hears tommy and billy giggling, and she wants you to meet her sons more than anything in that moment. if her plan works, soon you and her sons were going to be well acquainted.

"billy, tommy! come here, i have someone i want you to meet." wanda smiles when you gasp as the boys come speeding past you in a silver blue blur. "y/n, this is billy and tommy. billy and tommy, this is y/n." wanda watches as you smile widely, then give them a teasing look. "which one of you is super speedy?" you ask. "i am!" tommy pronounces proudly. "would you two like to help me set up my booth?" "we would love to, y/n!" billy says. wanda chuckles softly at billy. so formal, so sweet. for the next 15 minutes, wanda and her boys spend time with you, laughing and giggling together at tommy's antics as they help you set up your booth. wanda is thrilled at how well you, billy, and tommy are getting along. you guys almost seem best friends already.

wanda watches you smile at the booth setup, happy that you like it. "as a thank you for your help, you three get first pick of the treats." wanda's smile widens as tommy immediately goes for the huge triple chocolate cookie. he's so predictable. you laugh, and wanda shares a glance with you. you're so shy, so beautiful it makes her want to scream. billy walks slowly over to the table, and carefully surveys his options before choosing a cupcake with sprinkles. utterly predictable. wanda walks over to the table after the boys scatter to go say hi to their friends. wanda grabs a cinnamon pastry and pops it in her mouth. her eyes brighten as she chews slowly. it is incredible. she's almost shocked. "did you make all of this on your own, y/n?" wanda asks, her voice filled with wonder. you smile sheepishly. "yes, i did. do you like it?" you ask, subtly asking for her approval.

how cute. wanda knew you would be the perfect wife for her. as wanda finishes chewing, she lets out a soft moan of satisfaction. she knows what she's doing as a faint blush coats your cheeks at the noise. she watches your eyes drift to the places she wants them to be glued to the most. "can i talk to you after the bake sale?" wanda asks, but notices your attention trailing. "y/n? did you hear me?" wanda asks sweetly. people are beginning to drift over to your booth, the wonderful delectable smells drawing them. "sorry wanda. what was that?" your attention is on her for a moment before you begin to serve the customers in front of you. you're so sweet. wanda thinks so many dirty thoughts about you, that she wants to say to you now. she restrains herself, not wanting to scare you away. "i would just like to speak to you after the bake sale, ok darling?" wanda almost lets out a groan of dread when dottie approaches the table, her predatory gaze fixed. "of course wanda! ill meet you in a little while!" as dottie drags wanda away, wanda's gaze is fixed on you the entire time, hearts in her eyes.

after the bake sale, you and wanda meet up in the parking lot. the boys are konked out in the back of wanda's suv, their sugar high short lived. "what did you want to talk about wanda?" you ask, shivering as the fall chill falls over you. wanda immediately removes her jacket, offering it to you. "here detka. wouldn't want you to be chilly." wanda waits for you to slip it on before speaking again. "i wanted to offer you a job. i've found a job downtown, and I was just wondering if you'd like to start babysitting billy and tommy during the week or whenever I need it. my job requires a lot of travel. and of course, I would pay you double what you make right now at the café.." wanda rambles, but her breath catches as you lay a sweet hand on her arm. "oh wanda, I would love to! I already feel so close with billy and tommy, like I've known them for years. maybe we could meet up sometime over coffee and talk some more? i'm sure you're eager to head home." you say, nodding to the boys sleeping in the back of wanda's car.

wanda nods. "of course. that would be perfect, sweetheart. here, ill put my number in your phone. ill text you, okay?" you smile, handing wanda your phone. wanda enters her number, and hands your phone back to you. you stand there for a moment, your thoughts conflicting. you make up your mind, and quickly lay a light kiss on wanda's cheek before walking to your car. you will never know how that single kiss rocked wanda's world, and how it would soon lead to yours being turned upside down.

remember, asks and requests are open! i love to hear from you guys! <3

#dark wanda maximoff #mommy wanda #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff smut #dark wanda smut #dom!wanda #top!wanda #mommy wanda smut #wanda smut #wanda x you #wanda maximoff x female reader #scarlet witch smut #scarlet witch #wanda maximommy #wandavision #wanda x reader #wandanat #wanda marvel #wanda maximov

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thoughtsforsoob · 22 days

Text

txt - how they propose

a/n: I got inspo to write this when dates dropped for the tour! i am not officialy in posession of a pre-sale code and im hoping to get some good tickets!! i will come back with an update (LA moa's lets talk :) anyways, please enjoy! this piece was meant to be really sweet and even silly at times so please let me know what you think of it! as always, inbox is open.

yeonjun

at a fancy dinner

yeonjun is really excited when it comes to fancy, romantic outings but this one was going to be the best one of all. Of course, that’s because of his proposal plans. He is definitely the kind of guy that sort of spoils it or gives hints because he tells you to go out and get your nails, hair, etc… done. especially emphasizes getting your nails done. He covers it up by saying he loves seeing you all pretty and pampered but deep down, you sort of know what he’s hinting at. Anyways, moving on to dinner. He takes you to a fancy new restaurant that just opened in the city. It was on the top floor of some fancy building. There was a view of the city from where you both were seated at a small booth. He was sitting right next to you and talking your ear off about the day he’d had at work. He didn;t even drink, opting to let you order a drink so he can drive home. He buys you whatever you want to eat and watches you enjoy your food with those adorable, lovesick eyes. You whine at him to stop watching you but he says he can’t help but watch the love of his life. Eventually, he takes you out onto the patio of this restaurant and it was pretty empty since there were only a few more couples around. He takes in the view with you and asks you to take a cute video with him. He sets up his phone at a good angle and presses the record. He goes back to you and kisses your cheek. He takes your distraction as an opportunity to pull the ring out of his pants pocket and when he pulls away, he gets down on one knee and proposes. “Will you do me the biggest favor ever and be my Mrs. Choi?”

soobin

at home

Soobin was never one for big romantic gestures and he was happy that you were okay with it. His ideal date was at home, snuggled up on the couch or in a pillow fort, watching movies or playing video games together. sure, he did take you on little outings once in a while but he preferred staying home. When it came to his proposal plans, his logic was to stay home, plan and cook a little dinner and use all the extra money to buy you the prettiest ring he could find. He loved the whole ring shopping process “i know this probably isn't from some of the members. anyways, he tells you of his date plans for the night and you were into it. He tells you to dress normally with one of his hoodies and your favorite sweatpants or leggings (soobin loves your legs in leggings btw. he said so). you come in and he is dressed relaxed as well in those gray sweats you liked and a t-shirt you gave him as part of his birthday gift. He serves your dinners and then he takes you to his bed, getting comfortable together. after one episode of that new anime the both of you had started, he turns over to get something from his nightstand. he shuffles to sit on his knees and reveals the box to you, opening it shortly after. "i know this probably isn't the best proposal but we’ve had such a nice night. I love spending time at home with you. can we be homebodies together, forever?'' You nod and hug him super tight and he returns the hog. He gives you a sweet kiss after putting the ring on your finger and you two go back to watching your show and cuddling.

beomgyu

theme / amusement park

This man is so cute when it comes to a proposal. Let’s just say for the sake of this story that he takes you on an LA trip and you both have a knotts berry farm day! You two decided to skip out on disney because you two have already been together on a previous trip. You both also really wanted to see all of the snoopy memorabilia. You both have an amazing day getting on rides, drinking boysenberry juice and talking to each other the whole time. He loves seeing you so happy so he never says no to you not once that whole day. He lets you drag him to all of the performances happening at the park and even lets you take a picture of him with Snoopy, making finger guns at one another. As the day starts to wind down, you both decided to go souvenir shopping. Huening specifically requested a snoopy t-shirt so you both went to find him one. Beomgyu asks you to pick the t-shirt and he stays behind to find a snoopy plush to include in his proposal. He finds one and pays for it, as well as the requested souvenir you picked. He takes you back out to the park and you both take a seat to rest for a while before leaving the park. You take out your phone and dont notice when he turns around. He takes the plush out of the store bag and the ring out of his bag. He puts it in the plushies hand and turns back around. He taps your shoulder and you are met with a snoopy with an engagement ring in his hand. “Will you marry me, pretty lady?” he says in a high pitched voice and you gasp so loud that people turn around to look. You are absolutely red but you nod and beomgyu makes the plush put the ring on your finger. You call him a dork but he doesn't mind. He's your dork, forever.

taehyun

at the beach

you and taehyun went to the beach often. it was always so quiet, especially when you two visited at night. These outings were frequent, especially when you both went to travel somewhere different. In this case though, you were both home in Korean. Taehyun was on a small break during the summer time before their next tour and he decided that now was as good as ever to propose. He drove the both of you to your favorite beach at around 8pm. On the way there, you both made stops to get dinner and then to pick up some snacks to enjoy while hanging out at the beach. Once you both get there, Taehyun sets up your beach blanket and you both sit down, starting to snack on some grapes. Taehyun took about 30 minutes before he decided to ask you. He scoots close to you and pulls the little box out of his bag. you give him a confused look and he opens it, looking at your shocked reaction. He wanted to give a whole speech but his words got stuck in his throat when he saw your reaction. you say yes to him and he hugs you, slipping the ring on after.

huening kai

in your hometown / family dinner

I think kai is really big when it comes to family so having your family present for such a big event was important for him. Not only that, it was also really important for him to get along with your family and have their approval. So, during this trip to your hometown over a winter break, he sends you off to go shopping with your close cousin/sibling. He takes this opportunity to gather the rest of your family and ask for their approval to propose to you and of course they say yes! They even help him plan a whole thing. They were excited to see that he loved you a lot and cared enough to ask for their opinions and approval. This especially swayed your parents, who came up to him after and had a little chat with him about what they’d do if he ever hurt you. Moving on….you come back home from shopping and you show kai all your finds! Later on that night, your family is all gathered together in the backyard around a bonfire, having drinks and chatting. After a little while, your family gives kai strange looks and you’re sitting there absolutely confused. Kai looked over at you and smiled, “hey baby. I wanna ask you something. Will you do me a big honor and marry me?” he pulls out the ring and as soon as you say yes, he slips it on your finger and everyone cheers!

#txt imagines #txt fluff #txt headcanons #txt x reader #txt reactions #txt texts #beomgyu x reader #soobin x reader #huening kai x reader #yeonjun x reader #taehyun x reader #tomorrow x together #txt smau #txt post #txt

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sweetestofchaos · 1 year

Text

Stray Kids Getting Protective/Jealous over another guy

Warnings: Cursing, Jealous!SKZ, Protective!SKZ, SOL, Unsolicited Dick Pics, Creepy Men

Parings: SKZ x GN!Reader

a/n: requested by one of my anon besties. thank you for waiting, I hope you like it!

Chan

As the two of you walked around the food truck festival, Chris held your hand so that you wouldn’t be separated from him. There were a lot of people around and he knew that you could handle yourself, but he still wanted to avoid having you placed in any negative situation if he could help. You had found a truck that sold different types of corn on the cob and circled back to it. Chris stopped to tie his shoe while you went on a head to stand in line. When Chris finished tying his shoe he hurried over to the truck and saw that you were not there. He looked around and saw that you were talking to a group of guys who looked ready to fight.

He hurried over, his body tense and on one hundred in case he needed to protect you. Chris noticed that there was a small child hiding behind one of the guy’s legs. “What’s going on? Are you okay?” Chris asked as he placed his hand on your lower back. The men all looked at Chris and you nodded your head.

“I”m good, babe. This little one was lost, and I helped her find her family.”

They men all nodded in agreement and the tightness in Chris’ body loosened. He smiled and kissed your temple, “That was very kind of you…is she okay?” Chris asked as he smiled down at the little girl.

Minho

A quick in and out of the pet store, that all it was supposed to be. Minho was running low on cat food and you tagged along just to get out of the house. You got distracted by the cat toys (like always) and Minho said that he would be right back with the cat food. When he returned, you were not where he left you. He searched around and saw that you were looking at the kittens for sale. Before Minho could call your name, a guy walked up to you and asked if you liked cats. You told him that you had three, but they weren’t babies anymore.

The guy pulled out his phone to show you pictures of his own cats and Minho was a little annoyed that you so happily started talking to some stranger when he was for sure lying about cats. That much was made clear when you jumped back away from the guy after seeing a picture that was definitely not a cat. Minho had had enough, and he walked over.

“I would leave if I was you. That camera in the corner has a perfect shot of your face and whatever was on your phone.” Minho glared at the guy as he stood next to you and placed his hand in yours.

The guy rushed out of the store and when the two of you went to pay, Minho made sure to inform the store employee of what had happened. The two of you had to file a report but Minho would file a thousand reports if it meant that you wouldn’t have to ever see that creep again.

Changbin

He watched from his seat tucked away in a booth as guy after guy came up to you at the bar. You turned them all down, but this last guy wouldn’t leave you alone. Changbin rolled his eyes as the man made a big show of looking at his Rolex that was clearly fake. Having had enough, Changbin stood up and moved his way through the crowd over to the bar.

He came up beside you and interjected himself into the one sided conversation.

“Excuse me, would you like to dance? I can’t imagine this guy is any good at entertainment with how bored you look.”

You muffled your laugh behind your almost empty drink and nodded your head. You didn’t even bother to say anything to the man who was looking at Changbin in shock. Changbin winked at the man and grabbed your hand before he pulled you out onto the dance floor.

Han

When an unknown car pulled up in front of the cafe’, Jisung thought nothing of it. It wasn’t until the guy driving jumped out and jogged around to open the passenger seat that Jisung really paid attention. He thought it was really sweet and thoughtful that the man still went out of his way for whoever was in the car. The door opened and he saw a flash of a familiar coat that made him choke on his drink. He froze when he saw you get out of the car and wrap the man up tightly in a hug goodbye. You allowed for the man to squeeze you for far too long and Jisung wasn’t feeling the best anymore.

He couldn’t stop the anger and jealousy from clouding his mind. Just who did that guy think he was? Hugging you like that? If he didn’t have an image to uphold, Jisung would have been out front of the cafe demanding answers. However, he chose to wait and see what the relationship was between you and the other man. You pulled away from the guy and waved before you headed inside of the cafe. The man locked eyes with Jisung and gave him a two finger salute before he jumped back into the car and pulled off.

You found Jisung and saw the pout on his face. When you asked him what was wrong he clicked his tongue. “Who gave you a ride?”

“Huh?” You were taken back by the way Jisung’s voice shook, but answered his question anyway. “My cousin…I told you last night I was meeting with him this morning.”

Jisung felt stupid. He vaguely remembered you saying something about meeting up with someone named Em and stupidly he had assumed that it was a female.

“I thought Em was a girl.”

You laughed and shook your head. “Em is short for Emmett.”

Jisung’s cheeks heated up and he took a sip of his drink, “Oh..”

Felix

He was at the store with you to grab a few ingredients for a new recipe he wanted to try. The store was pretty crowded for a weekday but they were having a sale on the whole line of your favorite snacks, so Felix told you to grab a few without him. Some time had passed, and he went looking for you, only to find that some creep was trying to cope a feel in the madness.

“Hey!” Felix called out and the guy jumped back away from you when a few people looked back at his voice.

You smiled at Felix and when you saw the anger in his eyes you were confused.

“You wanna try that shit again you fucking pervert!?” Felix was seeing red as he glared at the man beside you. By now more than a few people had turned around to see what was going on and Felix kept going as the man tried to look around.

“I’m talking to you mate!” Felix stormed over and pulled you to his side. “You tried to touch them!”

People were whispering and the guy hurried off when someone suggested calling the cops. You hugged Felix tightly and snuggled into his chest.

“What would I do without you?”

Hyunjin

The two of you went to an art class together, it was a couple’s class that was supposed to make you appreciate your partner more. Hyunjin loved you and he appreciated you all the more, but he wanted to show you in a new way. Honestly, he wished he would have read the fine print on what the class was about. He thought he would be painting you but instead he was forced to watch some fucking creep paint you.

He knew that everyone here was supposed to be in a relationship, but he could tell right away that the one couple was faking it. Hyunjin watched as the man stood from his easel and walked around it to get closer to you. Hyunjin couldn’t see what the man said but the way your body tensed he knew he had to step in. He politely excused himself from the young woman in front of him, pushed hair from his face and walked over to your side. He wrapped his arm around your shoulders and glared at the guy.

“I’m sure your partner wouldn’t be comfortable with how you are hitting on another person,” Hyunjin stated loudly to gain a few eyes. “I know I’m not.” Hyunjin looked down at you and lightly gripped your chin between his thumb and index finger. “Are you babe?”

You shook your head and leaned into Hyunjin’s side, “No, I’m not.”

Seungmin

It wasn’t like him to get jealous. He trusted you and he knew that you didn’t have eyes for anyone else. However, that didn’t stop Seungmin from clenching his jaw when he walked into your workplace with lunch in his hands only to see some guy sitting on the edge of the counter you were behind. Seungmin watched as the man made up some excuse to try and touch you and when you stepped out of the guy’s reach, Seungmin made his presence known. He cleared his throat and called your name which made the guy step away from you slightly.

You saw Seungmin and ran over to him, throwing your arm around his chest while he hugged you back, his hands wrapped around your waist while he raised an eyebrow at the guy staring. He smirked as he kissed your temple and laced your hands together, “Come on, let’s have lunch.”

I.N

He should have known better than to leave you at the gym alone. He was only gone for a moment to refill your water bottle and when he came back to the dumb bells there was some guy standing in your space. You looked more than uncomfortable to say the least and the guy didn’t seem to care. Jeongin tightened his hold on the water bottles and walked right past the guy with his arm outstretched.

“Here, babe,” He smiled at you and kissed your cheek before he pretended to notice the guy behind him that was glaring. “Oh? Did you make a lil friend while I was away?”

You laughed at the way Jeongin called the man lil, it was a habit of yours that he picked up to insult people. The guy looked ready to swing and Jeongin clicked his tongue, “You’re in the way…”

#soc stray kids #skz scenarios #i.n #han #felix #bang chan #changbin #hyunjin #seungmin #lee know #skz x gn!reader #exqueuese me #soc request

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milfsloverblog · 1 year

Text

Stood Up (Part 3) (NSFW)

Larissa Weems x fem!reader

Part 1 Part 2

A/N: This took me so long to write, I reaaaally wanted to write the angst (beware) but then got stuck at the smutty part (which is why it isn’t as detailed). I hope you’ll enjoy reading this chapter as much as the previous ones! Lil reminder that my requests are open and I’ll happily write for any of Gwen’s characters <3

~1,8k

Saying you had fallen for Larissa would be an understatement. In a couple of weeks the tall woman had insidiously made her way inside your brain and inside your heart. She was usually your first thought in the morning when your eyes fluttered open, and your very last at night when you went to bed and moaned her name, your hand buried between your thighs under the bedsheets.

You hadn’t dared use her phone number yet. She’d said to use it wisely and you weren’t sure that calling or texting her every time you wanted to would make her very happy. You knew she was a busy woman, probably working until late at night only to wake up early in the mornings, and the last thing you wanted was to bother her.

A couple of times you had thought about sending her flowers, you even had the perfect bouquet in mind. Some black pearl amaryllis paired with baby’s breath and eucalyptus. Love and passion, new beginnings, protection. The perfect bouquet. But you had no idea which school to send it to and even if you had, you still weren’t sure that sending flowers to a woman you were having casual sex with was a good idea.

————

You sighed as you flipped the sign on your shop window, staring at the word “closed” written in bold letters while you locked the door. Thursdays were always slow and you had only made a few sales that day. You hated Thursdays more than Mondays, but at least you had Fridays to look forward to. Even more now that you knew Larissa.

“Lydia!” You called as you walked past Ellen’s and noticed your friend taking her cigarette break outside the restaurant.

The girl stubbed out her cigarette and waved as you approached her, pushing an awkward smile.

“Are you alright ?” You asked with a soft chuckle, “You look like you’ve seen a ghost!”

“No, no I’m fine! It’s just…It’s so rare to see you on Thursdays!” Lydia laughed uncomfortably and rubbed the back of her neck.

You were about to answer when you noticed it, the silver hair through the restaurant window. You couldn’t believe your luck.

“Larissa!” You whispered, watching the woman for a few seconds before moving to walk inside the restaurant.

“No, no wait-“ Lydia tried to hold you back but it was too late, you had already pushed the door open and taken a few steps towards Larissa’s table.

That’s when you finally realised that another woman was sitting across from Larissa. A redhead with big glasses who looked around Larissa’s age.

The tall woman leaned in a little, telling her companion something that made her laugh loudly. Larissa smiled, looking proud of herself and you watched as the redhead put her hand on the blonde’s one on the table.

Oh. Oh. It suddenly dawned on you that you were witnessing a date.

You took a step back and accidentally bumped into Lydia who dropped the empty plates that she had been carrying. Immediately the whole restaurant turned to look at the two of you, including Larissa and her companion.

You kneeled at the same time as Lydia did to pick up the broken pieces of glass, your back turned to Larissa.

“I’m sorry, babe,” Lydia whispered, glancing at the tall woman still sitting down in her booth. “I tried to tell you, I…I’ll spit in their food if that makes you feel better.”

You looked at your friend, eyes filled with tears that threatened to spill, and shook your head.

“That won’t be necessary.” You managed to say, “We’re not together. She’s free to see whoever she wishes to see.”

With that you got back on your feet and took a deep breath, turning around to look at Larissa who immediately pulled her hand away from the redhead’s. She opened her mouth to speak but you didn’t care enough to listen, instead choosing to get out of the restaurant as quickly as you could.

As soon as the building was out of sight you burst into loud sobs, letting the tears run freely down your cheeks. And it was silly, you knew that. Larissa didn’t owe you anything, she wasn’t yours and you weren’t hers. You weren’t even mad at her, you were mad at yourself for allowing this to happen.

Of course, she would want to date someone more like her. Someone her age, someone who did more in life than owning a flower shop. You knew that you were different from Larissa in almost every aspect but somehow you had hoped that maybe…

Fuck, it hurt. Your heart squeezed painfully in your chest as you realised that you had fallen in love with a woman who probably saw you as a mere distraction. And you could never be mad at her, because it was all your fault.

——————

The next few days were hell. Every time you closed your eyes you’d see images of Larissa and that redhead woman and it made you sick to your stomach. So much so that you skipped dining at Ellen’s that Friday.

You resented every single person that came into your shop to buy flowers for their partner, your teeth grinding each time someone mentioned their loved one.

“Your partner is lucky, I bet they get showered in flowers a lot.” The tall man standing on the other side of your counter said.

You looked up at him and his beige coat, and then back down at the bouquet of stargazer lilies he had bought. He had been here twice this week already. Yesterday he had gotten a dozen of white tulips and you couldn’t help but wonder if the man knew what these flowers meant.

I’m sorry, the tulips said. I miss you, the lilies added.

“I don’t have a partner.” You simply answered as politely as you could. “I’ll be back in a second, I need to get some organza.”

You walked to the back of your shop, shuffling through your organza rolls to find one that would match the bouquet.

“Ha!” You smiled victoriously and made your way back to the front of the shop, stopping dead in your tracks when you saw Larissa standing where the man had been just a couple of minutes earlier.

Your eyes quickly scanned around the shop, the man was gone. It made no sense, because if he had left and Larissa had walked in, the bell over the door would have rung twice, and it didn’t ring at all.

“I waited for you on Friday night,” Larissa’s voice pulled you out of your thoughts, “But you never came.”

You bit back a snarky remark and walked to the counter where the lilies were still waiting to be wrapped.

“I didn’t feel like going to Ellen’s.” You answered, keeping your eyes down as you cut the organza.

“You haven’t called, or texted.” She said, making you shake your head a little.

“Yes, well, I know you’re a busy woman. Didn’t want to bother you.” You shrugged, still not looking at her.

“You’re right, I am a busy woman. But I would have made time for you.” Larissa took a step closer and you put the scissors down, taking a deep breath before looking up at her face.

“I don’t think we should see each other again.” You said as straightforwardly as you could, watching how Larissa’s mouth dropped slightly open as she processed your words.

“Why?” It came out of the older woman’s mouth as a whisper.

Because I’m in love with you but you aren’t in love with me, you wanted to say.

“Because it wouldn’t be right to that redhead woman I saw you with last week.” You shrugged and went back to wrapping the bouquet.

There was a moment of silence before Larissa suddenly started laughing, and it made the anger bubble in your body.

“Yeah, it’s so funny, isn’t it? So, so funny.” You said through gritted teeth. “I really hope it made you feel good about yourself, me fucking you and you fucking me. I know I’m not good enough to be with someone like you, hell you probably wouldn’t even look at me if I walked past you down the street. But, fuck, it hurts. It hurts to know that if I had been a little more like that redhead, maybe you would have wanted me. Really wanted me, like I want you.”

Larissa had stopped laughing then, her blue eyes wide as she listened to your rant. She frowned because she thought she’d understood what you were implying but it couldn’t be. You couldn’t possibly be in love with her.

“Marilyn, the redhead, is my employee.” She eventually said after a few seconds. “And she is the closest thing I have to a friend. I don’t know what you think you saw that night at Ellen’s, but it wasn’t a date. We do like and respect each other, but it’s nothing like that.”

You just stood there quietly, realising you had been even more stupid than you’d thought. You wanted nothing more than to disappear.

“You fell in love with me…” Larissa said barely audibly and you shrugged, fidgeting with the lilies in your hands.

The cat was out of the bag now, it would be useless to deny your feelings after your clear display of jealousy.

“Yes, I did. Can you really blame me though? You’re everything anyone could wish for.” You eventually said, daring to look up at the tall woman.

Larissa leaned on the counter, her face stopping only a few inches from yours.

“Tell me again how we shouldn’t be seeing each other.” She whispered, her eyes dropping to your lips.

What happened next happened so quickly, you barely had time to register it. You closed the gap between Larissa’s lips and yours, her hand immediately grabbing the back of your neck to pull you closer.

She walked around the counter and lifted you as if you weighed no more than a feather, only to take you to the back of the shop and lay you down on the workbench where you prepped the flowers each morning.

You could smell the roses and carnations that surrounded you when Larissa kneeled between your now naked legs, a couple of thorns dug into your back but you could not have cared less.

“Have me, please!” You begged, aching to feel the woman’s touch on your skin again.

How special it was, you thought as you looked down into Larissa’s eyes and she looked up into yours, to have a goddess kneeled between her worshiper’s thighs, her mouth and chin slicked with their arousal.

You knew you wouldn’t last long when the coil in your tummy tightened dangerously, threatening to snap at any second.

When you came moaning Larissa’s name, the woman’s heart swelled in her chest. You loved her. Someone loved her. She was loved, finally.

“I love you too.” Larissa whispered in your ear as you came down from your high, placing a soft kiss on your panting lips.

She loved you.

Thank god. Thank god for the imbecile who had stood her up.

#gwendoline christie #larissa weems #larissa weems x reader #larissa weems x y/n #larissa x reader #no beta we die like larissa #principal weems

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am-i-the-asshole-official · 19 days

Note

AiTA for not wanting my friends at my booth anymore?

I (29 F) have been trying to get started as an artist at our local conventions. So I found a few friends willing to booth share so we could split the table cost. I always put the down payment on the table for cons in full.

The first year was really hard. People haven't shown as much interest in my fandom merch as I had thought they would (prints/keychains/etc).

They (25) make bags by hand (non fandom related). They're cute items, but people don't show as much interest in them.

The first year we boothed together they were late to the con, and to when the vendor hall opened, and to when I had set times I needed a break from the booth, and wasn't answering their phone. When they have been on booth duty, they spend all their time on their phone and don't talk to attendees unless people ask them questions.

I had a convo abt how disappointed I was with the lack of communication and them being late months after the con. They said they'd work on it and I tried to make it clear that this was my booth (since it's my money we're gambling with). I didn't mind renting out space on it. I had already promised them they'd have space at the table this year, so I didn't push the issue further, but I made it clear if we were to keep being friends I couldn't be in a position where I relied on them professionally. They said they understood, but we had been drinking when talking abt it.

This year, they were late to set up again. They brought people not involved with the booth to sit with us without asking me. So there was four people and my partner didn't feel comfortable being the fifth even though though my partner was the one that helped with set up the day prior. They were an hr late to dinner plans with us that night with 0 notice for an important phone call (their partner found out abt the DBZ guy dying. That was the importaht call) They didn't show up today until 2 hrs after open today with no notice of what was going on (they're rooming with 2 other people that have my # and were at the booth day 1) supposedly due to a migraine, but I know they drink hard after con closes. They have been there when I needed a break and responded when I asked where they were, they've had matching cosplays with me all con and it's all things I'm into. I can see they genuinely tried compared to last year.

Then my partner thought they heard them complaining about me while I was on lunch break today. (I only got food for my family/SO during the 2 hrs their half of the booth people was MIA. I assumed they were getting their own food in that time. Since yesterday they had food before showing up and didn't want lunch). And I had included them in my paid cosplay shoot without asking for them to chip in.

I spent way more money on the table this year literally the day we drove up to the con (long story, but point is I locked in the space, they weren't involved in getting table space this year) It's turned out better than before against all odds. I broke even day 2 not including their sales.

Then they were talking abt how next year they want more table space to take commissions and bring more stuff and be "more involved" with the table. I don't want that. It's like they don't remember agreeing it was my table at the end of last year.

I'm known for being flat/blunt when I'm upset. And at this point it's gone passed inexpeirience to just not thinking abt this as work.

Last year we agreed they'd give me $50 or what sales they made and this year it looks like they won't sell enough to make it to the $50. If I don't take their cut, I know my SO will be frustrated with me for being a push over and them for not following through on our agreement.

Idk how to firmly establish the boundary that it's my table and I don't want them having any more space/control over it without them saying I'm the asshole. I think it would be shitty to do that after demanding all their sales, but idk when to bring it up. It's also their birthday week this week.

I don't mind renting space, but at this point they don't understand that's what they are doing and I'm kind of done. This is our 2nd year doing this convention together, but my 4th table. My partner's furious with them abt the whole thing. I just want the freedom of making choices with my booth without being disappointed by people who say they care about it, then act like working the booth isn't a job.

AITA? Is there a way to not have them less involved with the booth next year without coming off as an asshole?

What are these acronyms?

#aita #am i the asshole

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aphrogeneias · 7 months

Note

got angst on the brain thinking about shy!r getting torn up by tabloids when her and rockstar!eddie go public with their relationship, like how would eddie comfort her or stick up for her? is there anyone else they know that would support their relationship and try to help get the press of their backs?

rockstar!eddie x assistant!reader's first tabloid scare. alexa play nothing else matters by metallica.

At first, you're distracted by seeing your boyfriend on the cover of Metal Hammer when you pass the newstand on your way to your boss' office.

He's there pictured in all of his glory, wielding his guitar on stage, all wild eyes and sweat. You try to keep your smile to yourself as you reach out to take a closer look at the magazine, taking it in hand. That's when you notice the girl behind the small counter looking at you.

You struggle to make eye contact, but there's something about the way she's looking at you, like she's trying to recognize you. She's young, you can tell. Bright pink blush on her cheeks, neon scrunch high on her hair, couldn't be older than seventeen. There was no way she knew you, you'd never seen her before.

When you continue to keep your head down, she finally speaks up. "Is that you?"

The girl points to another magazine, stacked together with all the other gossip and tabloids. Printed on the cover is a picture of you and Eddie, leaving his apartment in the city. Your face is there, clear as day, and so is Eddie's, though his is the most recognizible one.

Trembling, you leave one magazine behind and open the one you're on, and finally finding the article in it. There's more paparazzi pictures from that same day, and the comments on that article are not the nicest. Who are you? Who is this mystery girl? She's not a model, she's not an actress, she's not a socialite. Isn't he out of her league? What is he doing with a girl like that? Was that only a one night stand? It better be, though Eddie Munson used to keep better company in his bed.

"Fuck." You curse, only a whisper as you walk away. Away from that vile article, from the violation of your privacy, from the look of pity of the girl at the newstand.

Finding the nearest payphone is a hassle when your legs are shaking, your heart feels like it will burst from your chest, and your trying to keep the tears at bay. You try not to think too much about how wanted Eddie to be here. Not that he would know what to do, but he would know just how to hold you to keep you from falling apart, and that would be enough.

That fact was you weren't being careful. After you became official, you just stopped hiding. There was no reason to in your minds, all the people who mattered already knew, it wasn't anyone else's business. You were naive, both of you, but you blamed yourself the most. You should have known better, having worked in this industry for long enough to know what happens in cases like this.

It seemed like your entire body was shaking by the time Eddie answered the phone. Hearing his voice didn't make you feel better, though. It only made you feel worse.

"Hey, Eds. Do you have to talk?"

"Always have time for you, baby. What's up?" You could picture the boyish grin on his face. Probably sitting on the couch of his uncle's new house, the one Eddie bought for him as soon as he got his first big check after their debut album's sales skyrocketed. You wanted to crawl on his lap, then, and never leave.

"I'm gonna call you back from the office. It's... kind of an urgent matter. Is that okay? Just stay beside the phone."

In those situations, you didn't know how, but you were always able to keep your composure. Your voice didn't betray you, but Eddie knew. He knew your tells from miles away, through the telephone chords.

"What happened? Talk to me."

It was enough to break through your walls. You grab the phone a little tighter, press yourself closer to the booth. "They know about us. The press, and I guess everyone else at this point. We need a contigency plan, something to steer away attention, I don't know..."

"Are you okay?" Eddie interrupts. "Are you safe? Where are you?"

"I'm okay, I promise." Your voice sounds a lot smaller than you wanted it to. You try to sound strong to not worry Eddie further, but the words on the article keep running around your head. Were you really not good enough for him? Probably not. Definitely not. "These people are fucking mean, though." You whine.

You hear some shuffling on the other end, and then a little bit of silence before Eddie speaks up again. "Here's what you're gonna do. You're not gonna listen to whatever bullshit they're saying, whatever it is. We know what's real, we know about us, and that's all that matters. What matters is that I love you, okay?"

"I love you too." You manage to say, not trusting your voice to say anything else.

"We've been through this once, we got through it, we're gonna do it again."

"I know. I'm just... scared. I'm supposed to be anonymous, you know? A backstage person. Your job is to be in the spotlight, not mine."

"Then I'm gonna get you out of that goddamned spotlight, you hear me? I'm getting on the next plane there. Stay with Rick, have him deal with this. I'll be there in no time, I promise, sweetheart."

The noise of the city around you seems to dim as you focus on his reassurance. The breath you let out is shaky, but it has some relief in it. You knew what to do.

"I promise, okay?" Eddie doubles down on it. If he was there, he'd make you lace your pinky with his, you're sure of it.

"Okay."

#i got carried away 🫶🏼#nothing else matters #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x you #eddie munson x y/n #eddie munson fanfic #eddie munson blurb

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glittter-vamp · 11 months

Text

One Coffee | J.B

Single!dad Joe Burrow x Reader.

Warnings: Fluffy! Suggestive Language. Child Abandonment. Severe Weather. Kissing. Cussing. Super long. Lot's of time jumps.

Word Count: 6.6K (Stephen King I hope I made you proud with this WC)

It was a nice Autumn Saturday morning here in Cincinnati and you were currently at the elementary school your mom worked at. Your mom had asked you to help out with a fundraiser to raise money for the school in order to send the kids to some fun field trips in the spring. They had games for people to play, a bake sale, pumpkin carving, some people donated books for others to buy, candy stations and a whole bunch of other fun stuff. You were on beverages so there was water, sodas, juices, sports drinks, hot chocolate and coffee. You were attending the stand with your best friend Ellie. "Look at that line of moms with their kids." Ellie says as you sit beside her on your phone. You look over to see the line of moms at some football throwing game one of the dads at the school was hosting. He was a young handsome single dad who went pro a few years ago but retired early to focus on his kid who went to this school. The PTA moms couldn't get enough of him and judging by the line, even the non-PTA moms couldn't either. "Half those kids are glued to their Nintendo switches or iPad...yeah I'm sure it's the kids that wanted to play the game." You snort making Ellie laugh.

"Oh shit, look he's coming over." Ellie says slapping your arm. You look over to see said dad coming over to your booth with his daughter. "Hey, what can we get for you?" You smile standing up. "Hi, uh...I'll take a Gatorade and a hot chocolate for her." He smiles handing you a five. "I got it." Ellie says grabbing the drinks for him. "Quite the line you have going on there." You chuckle to him. "Yeah... I didn't think this many kids would be into football." He says looking back at the moms that were staring at him. Oh you hot naïve man, they were not there for that, you thought to yourself. "That's nice though, I don't think many kids are as active as our generation once was." You say as Ellie hands him the drink drooling over this man herself. "You played any sports?" He asks after thanking her and handing the hot chocolate to his daughter. "Soccer in high school, that's pretty much it." You shrug. "Well it's not that type of football but I'll give you a free game pass." He smirks. Was this man flirting with you? You asked yourself. He couldn't be.

"Oh, I'm not much of a thrower." You say biting your lip. "It's just for fun, I don't judge. Zoey here might though." He jokes and his daughter smiles. "Some people aren't good but dad says that's okay and I shouldn't make fun of them." She shrugs which makes you laugh. " I'm Joe by the way." He shakes your hand. " Y/N, Mrs. Y/L/N daughter." You smile. "No kidding? Zoey had her last year for kindergarten, awesome teacher!" Joe smiles. "Thank you, she really is." You smile back. "I'll be here until it ends if you wanna take up the offer, thanks for the drinks." He winks making you get butterflies. "This isn't coffee." Zoey says to her dad before they walk back to their station. "There's no way I'm giving you coffee kid, nice try." You hear Joe say making you chuckle.

"What was that!?" Ellie says sitting back down. "What?" You ask confused. "He was so flirting with you!" Ellie says. "Oh please." You roll your eyes. "Y/N...don't make me slap you. He was so into you!" She smirks. You roll your eyes and continue your time volunteering. You guys practically sold out on almost everything. You notice Joe helping clear out his own station and you decide to grab another gatorade and hot chocolate for them. "I'll be back." You tell Ellie and she nods not really paying attention. You make your way over to Joe and Zoey. "Hey,I thought you two could use another round." You say to them holding up the drinks and Joe smiles while Zoey runs over to you. "Is it coffee?" She whispers to you. "Sorry, we just ran out." You grimace and sighs. "I'll take it anyway." The small blonde child says defeated and going back to where she was sat. "Sorry about her, she's been trying to have coffee for weeks now for some odd reason." Joe says as you hand him the gatorade. "I have a coffee addiction too so, I get it." You nod making him chuckle. "They just picked up the game, sorry!" Joe says thinking you were here to play that. "Oh that's okay, I was not about to embarrass myself in front of an Ex-NFL quarterback." You say making him laugh.

"I'll respect that." He laughs. "Anyway, I just wanted to say goodbye and wish you guys a nice evening. I'll see you around!" You wave at them walking away but Joe jogs in front of you stopping you in your tracks. " You can tell me if this is to forward, but uh...can I get your number?" He smiles. You stood there shocked for a moment before answering. "S-sure yeah." You nod and he fishes his phone out of his pocket, you notice his lock-screen was a picture of him and his daughter at a football game. You thought it was pretty cute of him. He hands you his phone and you put your number in along with your name. "I'll text you, it was really nice meeting you." He smiles warmly. "It was nice meeting you too." You smile. "Bye!!" Zoey says still sat in her seat with her hot chocolate in hand. "Bye! I hope your dreams of tasting coffee come true!" You say making Joe scoff and Zoey laugh as you walk away. You wink at him before walking away.

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

Two weeks Later:

"So any plans this weekend?" Ellie asks as you two walk through the semi-empty mall on this Thursday afternoon. "Not really, might have dinner with mom on Sunday but that's pretty much it." You nod. "No plans with Mr. DILF?" She asks as we walk to the food-court to get some pumpkin spice latte's from Starbucks. "No, we've only been texting so far." You shake your head. "Do you like him?" Ellie asks. "Yeah, he's real sweet and funny but he seems to have his hands full with his daughter and apparently he's coaching a varsity football team this season because his friend who was the original coach just had a baby and is out for the season." You shrug. "That's sweet of him, I bet those guys are loving having a super bowl winner as a coach!" Ellie smiles. "Yeah...hey since you I know you followed the Bengals when he played...do you remember what the deal was with him and Zoey's mom? I just...if this does go anywhere I wanna know what I'm getting myself into. I don't have kids so..." You say as you two get in the long line. "You haven't googled it?" She asks. "I've been to scared too." You says and she snorts. "Let's get our drinks first." She says and you nod. You two order your drinks and find an empty table away from everyone to talk. "Okay, so what I remember about the whole scandal was that Joe was engaged to this influencer/model back when he was 25, he was head over heels for her. She always posted about how much he would spoil her and what not. I think her mom even got sick and he paid for the best treatments in the country but before they got married she fell pregnant and they pushed back the wedding until after the baby came. Then of course the baby came. From what I remember reading, she wasn't having it as mom, there were sources that said they would argue a fuck ton because she was unhappy being a mom and she just wanted that NFL wife and influencer life not the mom life. One day he came home from practice and he literally found his sleeping one year old alone in her crib and an empty house. She didn't even leave a note, she just got up, cleaned one of the bank accounts out, got her things and till this day no one knows of her. Not even her own parents." She says leaving you with your jaw hanging open.

"She left Zoey alone at one years old!? What the fuck..." You shake your head feeling heartbroken over that. "If that woman even stepped foot in this state I'm sure she'd have a bounty on her by his fans." Ellie says and you snort. "That's so sad...do you know if Joe has dated anyone after?" You sipping your drink. "Not that I know of publicly. Ever since he retired from the NFL he has pretty much stayed out of the public eye other than your regular fan sightings and charity events he attends." Ellie shrugs and you just sort of sit there processing this information. "Doubting something?" Your best friend asks snapping you out your thoughts. "I just don't know why he'd be interested in me, there were so many moms at that thing for moms school...why not go after someone who has kids and can relate to him?" You ask. "You're a catch Y/N and there was chemistry in between you guys. You definitely made his mouth water." Ellie says making you roll your eyes. "Okay, calm down." You laugh. "Has he like...sexted you?" She wiggles her eyebrows. "No! We met two weeks ago!?" You scoff. "Boring! I would of been all over that man by day two." You rolls her eyes making you laugh. "You're in a committed relationship." You give her a look. "And!? Joe Burrow is hot and I'm not going to apologize! My man would agree." She says making you laugh.

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

It was later in the day, 10PM to be exact and you were checking work emails at home in bed when you got a text. You look over to your phone and see it was Joe. It was a bit later than he usually texted you in the day but you weren't complaining.

Joe :Hey, sorry to bother you so late. The day kind of got away from me but Zoey and I were wondering if you wanted to come to the game tomorrow. Kick offs at 7:30...no pressure I know it's last minute. 😅

The message made you smile. You couldn't even remember when was the last time you were ever at a football game, let alone at a high school one.

You: I'll be there! Any team colors I should rep? 👀

Joe: Great! Red and black are the teams colors but you can wear whatever...I'll let you go so you can get some rest. See you tomorrow, goodnight.

You: Goodnight 😴

That night you went to bed excited for the next days events. You probably haven't felt giddy like that since you were a teenager. It has been a awhile since your last relationship which didn't end that well but you felt ready to get back out there. Even if it meant with someone who had a child. You understood that it would be a very different relationship than what you were used too but you were an adult and you weren't getting any younger.

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

The next day actually went by pretty quick. You owned a bakery with Ellie so you two got in early to get out early. She had a birthday dinner to attend and you wanted to make sure you were on time for Joe's game. You ran home, showered and changed into black and white flannel, jeans, boots and a black hat that said 'Bad Hair Day' on it since it was drizzling and you knew your hair was not going to survive the weather tonight. You also put minimal make up on like lip tint, concealer and mascara before you ran out the door texting Joe that you were on your way. The night was misty and foggy once you got to the school. The stands were full on both sides and adrenaline was pumping. It brought back high school memories of you and your friends going to every Friday night game drooling over the football players that wouldn't even look twice at you guys. Looking around the football field you hear someone call your name. You turn back to see Joe and Zoey. They were both in matching hoodies with the schools mascot on it, Zoey's a few sizes to big. "Hey you two! Ready for the game?" You smile at them both. "We're gonna kick some butt!" Zoey says kicking her foot up making you laugh. "Alright, tone it down a bit." Joe says to her and she rolls her eyes. The sass in this kid was amazing. "Thanks for coming out, I know the weather isn't the best." Joe says. "I keep my word but I'm definitely stopping at the pharmacy to buy medicine just in case a cold creeps up." You laugh. "Yeah, my parents are coming to pick her up soon before it starts to rain." Joe says. "I wanna stay!" Zoey pouts at her dad. "You're not risking another cold kid, you were already out for a week a few weeks ago." Joe says to her and he looks over to you sighing. He seemed a bit on edge.

"Are you here alone?" Joe asks. "Yeah, I was going to invite my mom but she doesn't like staying out too late especially with weather like this." You shake your head. Suddenly Zoey gasps and you both look at her. "Can I say with Y/N until Grandpa and Grandma get here?" She asks. "I don't think Y/N wants to be bothered tonight sweetie." Joe says patting her head. "I don't mind, you two are the only people I know here." You shrug. "Really? She can be a handful..." Joe says. "I really don't mind, I take care of my nieces and nephews all the time." You smile at him. "Alright, uh...why don't you guys stay over here in this section. My parents should be here in an hour or so. Zoey should be able to spot them when they get here." Joe says to me pointing at a section behind the sidelines. "No problem!" You nod. "Okay kid, I gotta go. You behave or we won't go to your friends birthday party next week. I mean it!" Joe says sternly giving her a few kisses on the cheek. "Okay Daddy." Zoey nods. "I'll have my phone on me, she's allergic to tomatoes so if she wants a hot dog, no ketchup. I'll reimburse you later." Joe says to you. "Noted." You nod. "Alright, see you guys later." Joe winks at you and giving one last stern look at Zoey before jogging off to the locker rooms. "I thought he'd never leave!" Zoey says making you laugh. "Do you want a snack?" You ask. "Cotton candy!" She says grabbing your hand. You make your way to the concession stand you order cotton candy for Zoey, chips and soda for you and a water just in case. You make your way to the area Joe asked you to sit at and sit down.

"So, what do you know about football?" You ask Zoey as she eats her cotton candy. She smiles at you and proceeds to tell you about the sport. You were surprised how much she knew about it at such a young age. She was only 6 almost 7 and her knowledge was so impressive. It reminded you of your mom when she taught her last year and she would talk about how smart she was. The game finally kicked off the crowd going wild, Zoey cheering specifically for her dad as if he was playing himself which made you happy to see that. The game started and already Joe was in fierce coach mode. You paid attention to him more than you did the game. You found it pretty damn hot seeing him all riled up, getting loud and serious. "Can we take a picture?" Zoey asks as you two sit and watch the game. "Sure! Here." You say handing her your phone which was huge in her little hands. She easily clicked the camera button on your screen and you two posed for a few selfies. "Can you send those to daddy so he can print them out for me?" She asks you handing you the phone back. "Sure can!" You smile making a mental note. The game continues, Joe's team of course winning for the most part and Zoey gasps standing up. "Grandma! Grandpa!" She yells at a blonde woman and a white haired man. "Hi sweetie!!" The woman beams before coming up the steps and Zoey running to them. "Look at you, you're growing so much." The man says making you smile. "Sorry, you must be Joe's friend! I'm Robin, Joe's mom, this is Jimmy, Joe's father." The woman smiles. Joe resembled her a lot but yet still had something of his dad. He was definitely taller than them both though. "Nice to meet you guys!" You say politely to them. "Hope she wasn't too much trouble." Jimmy chuckles. "She was awesome, no complaints here." You smile at Zoey who smiled back at you. She really was a super sweet kid. "We're gonna get out of here, it's supposed to rain soon and we don't want to be on the road with her in the car." Robin says. "Of course!" You nod. "Thanks for watching her! Say goodbye honey." Robin says to Zoey and Zoey gives you hug. "Bye Bug, see you next time!" You hug her back. "Bye! Tell dad that he better win the game!" She says making you all laugh. "Will do! You guys drive safe!" You smile at them as they wave at you goodbye. It was nice that Joe had a support system being a single a dad and all.

The game went on with it starting to drizzle. You were glad you wore the hat but wished you had worn a hoodie instead with the temperature dropping. The game eventually ended and that's when the downpour really happened. People were running to their cars, clogging up the stairways on the stands leaving you a sitting duck for a few seconds getting completely drenched. Eventually you were able to get out and you and Joe spot each other in the mess of people. He signals for you to go to him and you do. "Where'd you park?" He asks over the rain and sea of people. "The lot over there!" You say pointing across the field. "Great, I'm over there too. C'mon." He says grabbing your hand and making your way out of the mess of people. Making it to the parking lot you notice it's not as bad as the other one where everyone else seemed to be headed. "Where's your car?" Joe asks. "Over there!" You point at your car that was nearby. You quickly unlock it and Joe opens the door for you so you could get in. "I'm really sorry about the weather." He says squatting down to your level still getting wet by the rain. "I don't mind it, it's just water." You chuckle shivering a bit. "Where are you headed to now? I was thinking maybe you could come over to wait the storm out, I don't live that far from here." Joe said. "Okay, send me your address." You nod and he smiles. "Great, Drive safe please!" He says before he shuts the door and you turn your car on immediately turning on your seat warmers. Joe sends you his address and you drive out of the parking lot making your way to his house. He lived a few minutes away. By the time you pulled up to the very large house he was there waiting for you in the garage where he signaled for you to park in.

"Thanks." You smile at him as you get out of the car after you park and he hands you a towel. Thunder clashed in the sky making you both get startled. "Let's get inside before any tornado sirens come on." Joe says closing the garage door. You quickly kick your boots off and set them in a corner not wanting to track in any mud and you follow him inside. The place was really nice, dark hard floors and modern detailing. It smelled like cinnamon and was warm. "I have some sweats you can change into so you can get out of these wet clothes." Joe says turning on the lights in the house. "Uh, sure." You nod. "I'll be back in jiffy!" Joe smiles quickly heading upstairs. You look around the house, Zoey had some toys laying around... mostly teddy bears and miscellaneous stuff like probably came with other toys she had. You spot a wall of photos. They were all of Zoey and Joe. You smile at all the birthday & Christmas photos. Especially at the few on the wall where it seemed like Joe had won the superbowl and the only thing he was looking at was his daughter who was a baby and had a gigantic smile on her face watching the confetti fall down.

"Here you go, hopefully these work out." Joe says coming down still soaking wet himself, you caught your self staring at his muscular chest under his red shirt now that he had taken off his hoodie. "Thanks." You smile grabbing them. "There's a bathroom right there, I can put your clothes in the dryer when you're done." He smiles and you nod making your way to the bathroom. You change out of your wet clothes into Joes sweats which were so long on you but so warm and even though they smelled like clean linen, they had a faint of his cologne on it which you loved.

Coming out of the bathroom fixing your hair after taking your super wet hat off, you were met with Joe was changed now too and texting on his phone. "Better?" He asks smiling at you putting his phone in his pocket and taking the wet clothes from you. "Much better!" You nod. Joe puts the clothes to dry for you and comes back asking if you want something to drink.

"I have tea and hot chocolate if you want something warm." Joe asks looking in his cupboard as you lean on the nice kitchen island. "Tea is fine, but I see why Zoey wants to try coffee so bad." You chuckle making Joe laugh. "Yeah I'm not much of a coffee drinker but my parents are so I hope they have fun with that tomorrow morning." Joe says taking some tea packets out and grabbing the kettle that was on the stove. "They're grandparents though, they're known to be pushovers." You raise an eyebrow. "Okay... you may have a point but Zoey is pretty hyper on her own I don't think adding caffeine to it is going to work out in their favor." He says making you laugh.

"How was she anyway, I hope she wasn't to much of a handful." Joe says turning the stove on. "Not at all, though... even though she didn't cuss I do think she's gonna have quite the sailors mouth on her when she's old enough." You say to Joe making him laugh. "Yeah... she's the best trash talker I know. I put her in hockey last year and she kept being put in the penalty box because of it. " Joe says proudly. "They put you in for that now?" You ask confused. "There's a no bullying or hitting rule, they were 5 you know." Joe says making you laugh.

"Does she play a lot of sports." You ask and Joe nods. "She's been in hockey, T-ball and is in gymnastics now." Joe sighs clearly overwhelmed by it all. "Any good at them?" You ask. "All of them, she does wonders in anything she puts her mind too." Joe says leaning across from you on the counter. "Must be fun meeting the moms at gymnastics." You tease and he rolls his eyes sighing. "The last time she had practice this mom who is marred by the way, basically put her ass in my face while I was helping our Zoey with her hair." Joe scoffs. " Let me guess she said she didn't see you." You laugh and Joe gives a look of 'you know it'.

The kettle whistles and Joe goes over to pour our cups of tea. " Do you want milk or honey? Or sugar?" Joe asks. "Honey is fine." You nod. "So, what have you been up to other than what you've told me through text?" Joe asks handing you the mug. "Working and more working." You sigh. "I still have yet to swing by the bakery, Zoey asks me almost every day but with coaching and Zoey's stuff...time slips away from me." Joe says. "I get it, my siblings are the same way with their kids." You chuckle before sipping the tea. "Were my parents okay? No weird comments?" Joe asks making you snort. "They were really nice, no weird comments." You reassure him. "Thank god." Joe sighs in relief. "Meddling parents?" You raise an eyebrow. "Only with my dating life." Joe says. "Should I... be worried?" You ask. "Uh, I don't think so. My moms the one that really pushes it sometimes though." Joe sighs. "Well I get it, you're a great guy. You deserve to have a nice partner in life." You nod and he gives you a warm smile. Another clash of thunder rumbles through the sky and the lights flicker. "I should probably get some flashlights, just in case." Joe says setting his mug down and heading to the garage. You decide to check your phone and see you had a bunch of missed texts from Ellie. You open them up and read them.

Ellie: How was the game?

Ellie: Are you home?

Ellie: I'm following your location bitch, why are you on the rich side of town?

Ellie: NO WAY ARE YOU GIYS HOOKING UPP!?

You shake your head and scoff at your best friend.

You: I'm at his place waiting out this storm, we haven't done anything. Not even kiss.

Immediately Ellie responds.

Ellie: Sure...the storm...well just a heads up our electricity is out on our side of town so...you might wanna sleep over and have that big strong man keep you safe and warm 😏

You snort rolling your eyes as Joe comes back in with a few flashlights.

"Everything okay?" Joe asks setting down the flashlights on the island. "Yeah, my friend just told me that our neighborhood doesn't have power." You say which was partly true. "You're welcome to stay the night...not to be weird or anything but if it's that bad, I rather not have you drive out there in the complete dark." Joe says which made your heart flutter that he cared for your safety. "I uh wouldn't to impose- Pft! Impose? I have two guest bedrooms that only get used by Zoey when she hides from me in the mornings when she doesn't want to go to school." Joe says making you laugh. "Speaking about her, let me go call my mom and see if they're okay. All these flashlights have batteries, I'll be back. I left my phone upstairs." Joe says and you nod. He leaves grabbing one flashlight to be safe and you quickly take your phone out again to text Ellie.

You: He invited me to stay the night because it's storming out!!

Ellie: HE WANTS YOU!! Girl, you better start warming up that jaw!

You: Calm down... I've known him for two weeks and barely!

Ellie: And?! Have fun! He's a DILF. Remember you're living the dream of every mom from your moms school.

Joe comes back down and you set your phone lying down on the counter taking a sip of your tea which was lukewarm now. "Everything okay?" You ask him. "Yeah, she's already sleeping and my parents say the weather isn't that bad over there." Joe says. Both your phones suddenly start ringing loudly and you check to see that there was a tornado warning. "Gotta love Ohio..." You sigh. "We can had down to my basement, I have snacks down there just for this." Joe says and you nod grabbing some of the flashlights. As you follow him down to the basement the lights flicker off. "Shit." Joe says quickly turning on one of the flashlights and you do the same. You carefully follow him down the stairs and you see it was basically like a movie room. He did have all his awards in a glass case which you made a mental note of staying away from incase that tornado did come. You guys set the flashlights around the room and sit on the couch he had. Joe siting a lot closer than you thought he would of but you weren't complaining. "We should be okay here." Joe reassures you seeing how uneasy you were becoming. "Thanks." You smile at him before your phone vibrates again. You pull it out and see it was your mom asking if you were okay. "Everything okay?" Joe asks. "Yeah, it's my mom wondering about me, she's at my sisters this weekend for my nephews birthday." You nod as you text your mom back that you were in a friends basement safe.

"Sorry this night isn't really going that well." Joe says seeming embarrassed. "I'm not complaining. Kind of feels like a cool sleepover. " You smile looking at him in the dimly lit basement. You can still hear the rumbles from the thunder outside. "If I would of been at a sleepover like this when I was a kid I probably would of been freaking out calling my parents." Joe says making you laugh. "Don't tell me you were a scaredy cat growing up." You laugh. "Very much so, I wish I had half of Zoey's courage as a kid. I caught her watching ghost adventures not that long ago. I would never at that age." Joe says making you laugh. "She seems like a really cool kid." You smile. "She is, Definitely the best thing that has ever happened to me." Joe smiles. It made you really happy to see how much he loves his daughter and speaks so highly of her already. "That's sweet." You smile.

Both of you looked at each other in the eyes, feeling that tension between the two of you. Suddenly you feel Joe's lips on yours and you immediately kiss him back. Your tongues dance around each others mouth tangling your fingers in his short locks. The thunder outside shaking the house a bit making you guys pull apart for a moment but you quickly continue your make out session.

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

You two rode out the storm the night with many kisses, giggles and cuddles. It felt like you two were in high school sneaking around. The next morning you two woke up laying on the couch together. Giving each other a quick peck you two got up and walked upstairs to see the sun shining as if it didn't storm for hours last night. "Crazy ass weather." Joe shakes his head looking outside. "How bad is it?" You ask. "Few branches knocked down but at least we have power again. Let me get your clothes." Joe says. You text Ellie asking if she was fine and she immediately responds that she was but that the streets were flooded on your side of town. "Here, luckily they got dried before the power went out. Any word on how it is by where you live?" Joe ask. "Streets are flooded." You sigh. "Well I gotta go pick up Zoey, come with?" Joe smirks. "Oh, I don't want to give Zoey or your parents the wrong impression seeing me in the same clothes from yesterday." You bite your lip. "I'll lend you a basic Bengals hoodie that anyone in Cincy has, no one needs to know and speculate." Joe says and you nod. "Here come on, follow me." He says going up the stairs. You make it to his room which was huge, probably the size of your apartment. "You can change, shower so what you need to do. here's the hoodie, there should be a pack of tooth brushes under the sink so you can take one and towels are in the closet." Joe says. "Thanks, I'll be out quick." You nod. "No rush, knowing my parents they're letting Zoey sleep in." Joe says giving you a kiss on the cheek giving you butterflies. You couldn't get used to his affection. You quickly shower, surprisingly Joe had Dove cucumber shower gel so you used that. You brushed your teeth, did the best with your hair and met Joe downstairs where he was talking on the phone.

Joe smiles at you as he wraps up the call he was on. "Yeah, I'll be there soon. I will, bye." Joe says. "Just calling my dad to let him know I'll be on my way soon. Let me get ready really quick, I was thinking once we pick up Zoey we could stop somewhere and have breakfast?" Joe says. "Yeah sounds good." You nod. Joe gives you quick peck on lips and heads upstairs. This was a perfect moment to call Ellie.

"Hello?" Ellie answers.

"Morning sunshine." You say as you lean on the kitchen counter and watch Joe's neighbors clean up their yard.

"Did it happen!?" She gasps.

"Define 'it'..." You bite your lip.

"You know very well what, don't play stupid!" Ellie says annoyed.

"No that didn't happen." You say.

"What did happen? Did you at least kiss?" Ellie asks.

"That we did... I think we're just gonna take things slow." You shrug as if she could see you.

"Slow!? What are you guys 14!? C'mon." She scoffs.

"El, we barely know each other." You mutter.

"You stayed over his house! What's a little sex gonna alter?" She says.

"A lot! We haven't even gone out on a proper date!" You hiss.

"Oh well sorry Princess of wales, I didn't know you had to be courted to show him some ankle." Ellie says making you laugh.

"You're such a bitch." You laugh.

"Call me when when he puts it in ya." Ellie says hanging up making you loudly scoff.

"Can't believe I run a business with that girl." You sigh. You scroll a bit on your phone before a showered Joe comes downstairs grabbing his keys. "Ready?" He asks and you nod grabbing your purse following him to his car. Opening the passenger door to find a naked barbie sitting with the seatbelt over her making you laugh. "Jeez, this kid." Joe says unbuckling the seatbelt and throwing the barbie in the back. "Didn't mean to ruin the moment between the two of you, I could of sat in the back." You tease as you sit in the car. "Zoey always puts her dolls or teddy bears in the front because of my suppose bad driving, she thinks they need to help keep watch on the road...so she says." Joe shakes his head pressing the garage button. "Should I be scared to be in this car right now?" You raise an eyebrow putting on your seatbelt. "She's dramatic, just like my mom is about my driving." Joe says and you eye him. "I don't know... if a kid says you're bad at driving then... maybe you are." You laugh and Joe gives you a look making you snort. "We'll be fine." Joe says.

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

You two made it to Joe's parents house in one piece but Joe definitely was heavy footed and an impatient driver. You could see why his own child and mother had something to say about the driving. As you pull up to the house, you spot Joe's parents playing with Zoey in the yard. Throwing a football around to be exact. "History repeats itself." Joe smiles as we park the car. As you get out of the car Zoey gasps and thinking she was running towards Joe, Joe squats to her level but she makes her way to you instead. "Y/N!" She beams hugging you. "Hi Bug!" You chuckle seeing the hurt on Joe's face. "That was rough." Joe's dad says making you all laugh. "Hi daddy!" Zoey says running over to her dad who couldn't stay mad at her for saying hi to you first. "Hi baby." Joe says picking her up and kissing her cheek. "How was she?" Joe asks. "Great, she didn't eat much this morning though." Joe's mom tells him. "Cause she knows we're going to breakfast." Joe says tickling her and Zoey giggles.

You all have a short conversation about the storm last night and what you had planned for the rest of the day before you said goodbye to his parents and left to breakfast. You noticed how much Joe's mom was eyeing you. You could tell she was suspicious of you two but you were thankful she didn't ask anything. Joe drives you guys to the diner and immediately get seated. "Hey you two? Brought a friend this time?" A nice waitress smiles at you guys. "Hey Kat, this is Y/N." Joe introduces you two. "She's a pretty one, don't mess it up." She teases and Joe blushes. "I'm kidding, you guys want your usual's?" She smiles. "Yeah, but can I get the pumpkin pancakes instead of the regular ones." Joe asks. "Me too!" Zoey nods. "And for you hun?" She smiles at you. " Can I get the french toast and pumpkin spice latte." You smile at her.

"Sure thing. That's it?" She asks. "One coffee?" Zoey says trying it and Joe gives her an unamused look. She was not going to give up. "Still trying to get that coffee.. huh?" Kat laughs. "Maybe...let her taste decaf." You speak up and Joe raises an eyebrow at you. "Yeah! Decaf!" Zoey claps and Joe sighs. "One decaf with a lot of milk." Joe says in defeat. "You got it." Kat laughs leaving you guys. "What's decaf?" Zoey says. "It's a type of coffee that you're only going to have once, so don't get used it." Joe says to her and Zoey pouts. You guys wait for your food, talking about the game last night until the food comes. "Okay...and one decaf." Kay says setting the coffee in front of Zoey which she eyes with excitement. "Eat your food first, let the coffee cool down." Joe says to Zoey and she rolls her eyes. Zoey practically inhales her food, finishing and then it was the moment of truth. Her first sip of coffee. Joe puts in a bit of sugar in the coffee and she takes her first sip with a straw to make sure she didn't spill it on herself.

"Ah, that's the stuff!" Zoey says making you two laugh. "Let me go pay the bill." Joe shakes his head getting up from the booth. "Can I tell you a secret?" Zoey says to you looking like she had something serious to say. "Sure." You smile. "That was disgusting." She says pushing the coffee away from you making you snort. "Your secret it safe with me." You laugh and she giggles with you knowing she didn't want her dad to know that after all the begging, she hated coffee. "What's all the laughing about?" Joe asks coming back. "Nothing." You both say in unison simmering down and you wink at Zoey and she winks back. "Secrets? Already?...Wow." Joe says shaking his head but he couldn't help but smile at the two of having a cute moment together. He was happy that you two were getting along well and felt good about what the future could hold between you three.

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A/N: I really hope you guys enjoyed that! Though I don't think I will make this a proper series I'd maybe like to add to this fic from time to time if you guys would like that! Thanks for reading! 🖤

#joe burrow fanfiction #joe burrow fluff #joe burrow fic #joe burrow imagine #joe burrow x reader #joe burrow AU #joe burrow x y/n

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daftpatience · 4 months

Note

Do you have any tips or advice for running an artists booth at a convention? I'm thinking about doing it eventually and been wanting to hear from people who have done it before :^)

yeah!!! lemme rattle off a few things off the top a my head also, pardon me 4 using amazon dot ca links for products that i mention. its just easy to find references that way (and often u can look up the brand and find their non-amazon store etc etc)

this got super long so im putting it under a cut!!

• join an artist alley group!! i'm in this artist alley discord and it is a fantastic place to get info about cons, table display ideas, manufacturer recommendations, etc. there are more than just this group out there and i think there are bigger ones but i personally really like this one ^u^ i make a ton of use of the display resources and manu recommendation channels!

• if you can afford it, be choosy about the events you apply to. there are a lot of cons out there that are fantastic, and a lot that aren't worth the trouble, and i don't necessarily mean small vs big cons. some of my fav events are smaller artist alleys local to me, and most of the artists i know avoid informa (fanexpo) like the plague. check out what other artists have to say about past events and keep an eye out for red flags: personally i find cons with really out of date/poorly advertised social medias and websites that have mismatched info are a warning sign of a mismanaged and not well attended event. • you don't need a lot of fancy display stuff to start, those sorts of things you can build up over time. im a fan of getting a ton of my display stuff from the dollar store >:)

when you're ready and need the space to display a good amount of art the main thing you wanna pick up is definitely something that gives your table some verticality, whether that's a pvc pipe style setup, pegboards, or modular cube shelving (we all used to use these big heavy grid ones until the plastic sheet covered ones came out and now we all use those. theyre cuter and lighter and fit better on a table and come in more colours yayay. im sure some people still like the grid ones since they fit gridwall accessories tho) there are lots of other ways to display stuff but these r what i am most familiar with. definitely helps to look at youtube and pinterest and discord groups for display ideas!!

another thing you will want to start is a tablecloth. not every con has their tables already covered! there are those plastic picnic ones at dollar stores, and you can thrift bedsheets/fabric too.

• depending on the type of display and art you do you'll need some way to attach signs/prints/charms/etc to your display. i just moved from blu-tack to magnets but i used to use sewing clips (back when i used the grid cubes) and before then masking tape. all of them are okay and cool! except blu-tack. don't make the same mistakes as me it adds like 40 whole minutes to teardown and it leaves gross oil on the prints after some time. evil

• if you don't have business cards you can make a sign with a qr code that links to you/your shop! there are lots of qr code makers online that u can even customize with images and colours and stuff. there will be people that wanna know how to find you again after a con!

• these days a lot of people don't bring cash to conventions and it's pretty vital to bring some sort of card reader or other digital payment method. most of us use square - they recently made it so that the phone app can accept tap! so you don't need to jump for the expensive physical readers. i've also got a paypal dot me qr code and my etransfer email (i think this is a canadian thing) on a lil sign on the table so people have lots of payment options. usually over 50% of my con income comes from non-cash sales!

• make sure to bring change!! we've forgotten in the past and done okay but it's always handy to be able to make change for people. you'll want a secure place to put cash as well, whether it's a locked moneybox that you keep out of sight or a place on your person (friend of mine uses a fanny pack!) you never wanna leave your table completely unattended but especially when it comes to the moneybox. if it's a multi day con this is an item you mustn't leave at your table overnight.

• keep count of your sales and expenses properly so that you can see how much you made at the end of the con. i really like spreadsheets but you can even just note it down in a book. here's a little example of one con for me:

• you'll want to make a checklist of stock and display stuff to bring, but don't forget to make a list of minor stuff like phone chargers and scissors and tape and glue and pens and paper. multiple types of tape and paper if possible. they don't feel super important until you're stuck because you forgot to make a price sign and have to get by with a sharpie and a napkin. don't let that be you!! dollar store sticky note pads are super useful for this type of thing.

• plan out your prices and do as much prep (counting, sign making, display planning, packing/sorting) as you can beforehand so that the event doesn't feel too stressful. make sure your merchandise is stored in an easily accessible way for you behind the table so you aren't scrambling or rummaging too much when people are asking for stuff!

• similarly, whatever you can leave out for people to just pick/grab themselves, the more of it you're likely to sell. things like stickers and charms are good for this - people like to touch stuff! and it makes it so you don't need to go fishing for items for people as frequently. generally i don't do this with more expensive items just to be safe.

• if you sell prints, people are gonna ask for sleeves to keep them safe, especially at outdoor events. sometimes people ask for sleeves/bags even if they dont buy anything. they're a good idea to have on hand and you can find em for pretty cheap online and for a bit more expensive at dollar stores (i use OPP bags. if you dont wanna use plastic you can always get paper bags/envelopes/glassine bags instead)

• a cushion for the chair is a good idea. lots of conventions have really uncomfy chairs. some folks even bring camping chairs instead!

• pack snacks/lunch/water/drinks/have lunch plans. if you have a table buddy that is able to run out for food that's always nice. you might be sitting but it uses a lot of energy to interface all day!! you'll be exhausted and hungry and it's gonna be important to get enough fuel for your brain to function properly. i genuinely would recommend juice/soda/coffee/energy dink alongside water and food if you wanna live, especially if its a multi day con. get good sleep on days between!

• if you're excited to do trades with other artists during the con, the general etiquette is to wait until later in the day/near the end when the crowds are winding down! it's always okay to ask if someone's doing trades, and don't be upset or press them if they aren't interested or have certain stuff they don't want to trade.

• speaking of con etiquette, depending on the type of vert you are (intro/extro) and or how much customer service experience you have, interfacing can be nervewracking. my general rule is that if they stop to look, i say Hello and let them browse. if they seem interested in my table i try and do some small talk. stuff like How are you/How's the event been for ya/compliments on their outfit/cosplay/merch they have on like pins etc are good! kids and old folks love this. as tiring as it is to do some of my favourite parts of cons is talking to nice people that like my art!! all the folks that say nice things about my work are what keep me drawing ;w; i keep my sketchbook with me to jot down/doodle nice and funny encounters just cus it makes me happy to look back on XD

• when it's teardown time try to put stuff away as neatly as you can. you might be tired and just wanna toss all your stuff into whatever it is you brought it in but i promise future you (especially next-con you) will be so thankful that you put all your price signs into one baggie etc etc.

• speaking of bringing and putting away merch - you'll need a way to get it all from your home/car to your table and back. lots of people use dollies and other types of utility cart (i can guarantee there are a bunch of those grandma grocery ones at your local thrift store!!) - i personally use a big luggage bag and a collapsible wagon, but back in the day we used to CARRY bin after bin of stuff from the car and back in multiple trips which i would NOT reccomend lol. not every convention hall is easily accessible or close to parking so not having to lift stuff if you can avoid it is gonna be vital.

#sorry this is SO LONG #i have a lot of con onions #artist alley #convention

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pellucid-constellations · 2 years

Text

Unexpected

Pairing: Army Vet!Bucky x Teacher!Reader

Summary: With all of his rough edges and impassive glances, Bucky Barnes looked to be the last person you’d find at an elementary school bake sale. Too bad Steve couldn’t make it, and dealing with a class hopped up on sugar wasn’t a feat you could manage alone.

Word count: 2.4k

Warnings: none! Maybe a little sad Bucky

a/n: This was supposed to be a drabble but I loved it so much so it’s a oneshot!! I hope you enjoy :))

Masterlist

Another box thudding against the makeshift countertop sent your third graders into a frenzy. You had given up on trying to tame their excitement after the first batch of cookies had sold out, doing your best to simply hold down the fort until another set of hands could come to help you. The bake sale had seemed like the easiest booth to sign your class up for, but that was before you learned that the PTA had only assigned one parent to come and help you.

And that parent was already… fifteen minutes late? You couldn’t check your phone to find out, a tug at your sleeve tearing your eyes from the parking lot in the distance.

“Miss y/l/n, can I put the cookies out this time?”

You leaned down, smiling at the sweet little girl with blonde, lopsided pigtails. “Emma, you can put the cookies out as soon as you tell me where your daddy is.”

She scrunched her face up in contemplation. “Daddy said he had work today. At the place with Uncle Sam.”

You internally groaned, a smile in the place of a grimace as you held out the frosting-covered cookies. Emma took them with a tiny squeal and began placing them on the plates by the brownies.

Well that was just perfect. Leave it to Steve Rogers—one of the most dependable parents you had in this class—to ditch you on fundraising day. He had signed up for the spot just two days ago; how he didn’t already know he had work baffled you. But you would just have to smile through the pain and try to rangle the seven-year-olds attempting to eat all of the rice krispy treats. At least you had Emma to man the bake table.

Until you didn’t.

All it took was a glimpse of the six-foot something, angry looking man in the hoodie and she was booking it, cookies long forgotten on the cheap tablecloth. So now you had to rangle the seven-year-olds, and make sure Emma Rogers wasn’t running straight into danger. You figured the amount of giggles coming from her meant she wasn’t, but you weren’t about to take any chances.

“Emma!” you called, hastily jogging to the outside of the table. “Emma, you can’t run off, honey! You know the rules.”

She whipped her head around just moments before launching herself into the stranger’s arms, laughing out, “But this is my Uncle Bucky! Miss y/l/n, I know him.”

You sighed, resigning yourself to watch as “Uncle Bucky” scooped her up and brought her back to the bake table. He listened contently as she babbled on in his ear, but his stoic demeanor never wavered. He simply patted her back as she went on and lowered her to the ground when they were stood in front of you, a gentle hand on her head letting her know he was still listening.

After another minute of her retelling the events of the bake sale, she decided she was done talking and that her job needed to take precedence. The cookies were then back in her hands, and you were then alone with Bucky in a sea of over-hyper kids.

“Um,” you hummed out, a slight laugh to break the tension. “It’s nice to meet you, Bucky. I’m assuming you’re Steve’s brother?”

Bucky shook the hand you had extended with his own gloved grip, letting his eyes scan up your wrist and along the planes of your face. “Something like that.”

Another awkward laugh escaped you. “Well, I’m y/n, Emma’s teacher. I was expecting Steve to show up today, but Emma hinted that maybe…”

“Oh. Yeah. I’m here in place of Steve.”

“You’re here to help me with the bake sale?”

The smallest hint of playfulness graced his features. “Don’t think I can handle a bake sale?”

That wasn’t exactly the verbiage you’d use. You were sure this man was more than capable of selling a few pastries, but whether or not he would do it out of intimidation or charm was still up for debate. Emma seemed to adore him, but in the few minutes he’d been here—surrounded by children and up-beat pop music and one too many bounce houses—the man hadn’t smiled once.

Sure, he stopped looking downright angry after his niece had bounded up to him, but you had the sneaking suspicion that school fairs weren’t exactly his scene. If his bulky frame and tied back hair were any indication, he probably spent most of his freetime in the gym or holding people up by their shirt collars.

“It’s not the bake sale I’m worried about,” you teased. “It’s all the kids.”

Bucky leaned his shoulder against the beam of an awning, eyes flicking down to your feet, and then back up to your face, achingly slow. His features gave nothing away as he clenched his jaw imperceptibly, and you arched a brow in silent question.

“You think the kids won’t like me just cause I’m not wearin’ a fancy skirt?” he posed, except this time, you could’ve sworn his mouth ticked up—just the smallest bit.

But smile or not, you still scoffed, “I’m following the teacher dress code, Mr. Hoodie. And for the record, the kids love these things. They like to guess what color they’ll be and write it on the board for the next day. It’s fun.”

Bucky shot his hands up. “You don’t gotta defend the skirt, gorgeous. Never said I didn’t like it.”

Heat crawled up your neck and fizzled in your brain, leaving you lost for words as the endearment echoed there. Gorgeous—you almost wanted to scoff again, but Bucky had turned away from your embarrassment as Emma alerted him of a customer, and you were left to sort out your flustered mind before another student needed you.

Which was quickly, you realized, as Peter—one of your shyest students—requested you help him speak to one of the parents about the ingredients in a cake pop. You leaned down and echoed the words back to him as he listed them off, trying your best to ignore the eyes on you.

Bucky may have been stoic and hard to read, but he certainly didn’t bother with discreteness as he gazed at you below the bake table. He took in every move you made, from the hand you kept on Peter’s back to comfort him through his speech, to the other that you used to tuck your hair behind your ear as you glanced down.

And it made you nervous, but it was the good kind of nervous—the kind you hadn’t felt in a while. Teaching kept you so busy that most of the time, the only other people you met your age were the parents of your students, and you had a strict rule not to date them. Dating apps were always an option, but after your fourth date ending in less than desirable circumstances, you had sworn those off as well.

But Bucky wasn’t a parent at all.

You wiped those sudden thoughts from your mind; the guy had said about three words to you, and it wasn’t as if they were overtly nice. You were probably just taken by his large stature and his calmness with the kids and your heart was speaking faster than your mind, a recipe always set for disaster.

As you stood from your spot beside Peter, a gentle hand met the small of your back, guiding you up with a steadying touch. Your mind didn’t seem to care about logic anymore as the fluttering in your stomach went on a rampage.

“Didn’t want you to trip over the curb,” Bucky apologized, hand still pressed to your spine. It felt… structured in a way, solid. “Skirt woulda been ruined.”

You glanced up at him, meeting the scruff of his jaw before stepping away, slightly breathless, as much as you hated to admit it. “Wouldn’t want that.”

“Would’ve been a disaster.”

You held in a laugh and his eyes tracked the way your mouth moved.

After a few more hours of the same—you, dancing around Bucky’s teasing while simultaneously trying to tame a gangle of kids—you found yourself grateful that you had someone there to help out. It might not have been Steve with his authoritative voice and kind smile, but something about Bucky commanded attention as well, and kids always seemed to love the gruff ones (so did you, but again, mind over heart).

With one final, relieved breath, you started the clean-up process. The kids had all been picked up, so that just left you, a fold out table, and a ton of boxes. But you could handle tables and boxes; they didn’t scream and demand attention.

You were about halfway into failing at closing the legs of the table, when that voice that seemed to betray your senses piped up.

“Need some help?” Bucky called out, hands pocketed in his jeans, brows bunched together on his forehead.

You huffed out a breath, displacing the hair that had fallen in your face. “Don’t think I can handle a table?”

“After today, I’m pretty sure you can handle more than a table. Just looks like you’re strugglin’ a bit.”

You set down the offending object, nodding your head in defeat. Bucky knocked the toe of his boot into the concrete before striding up and tapping your arm to make you step back. He pushed the leg in with two fingers, the sound of metal plucking against plastic making your face warm. You had been trying at that for over five minutes.

“So I was right then,” you conceded. “You must work at a gym. Or you box? Something where you have insane strength and can explain why I have just been bested by a table.”

Bucky laughed, the sound surprising you and making your lips turn up of their own accord. He sounded so sweet and carefree; he sounded like sunshine and summer nights and you weren’t sure why he kept that so hidden. Emma’s endearing giggles suddenly made so much sense.

“You think I work at a gym?” he finally wheezed out, whispers of a laugh still fresh in his words. “Sweetheart, I haven’t stepped foot in a gym in months.”

You opened and closed your mouth a few times, the only thing coming out a disbelieving, “But you’re huge.”

You slapped your hand over your mouth, mortified, and Bucky didn’t laugh this time, but the smile he gave you almost made the embarrassment worth it. He took a step forward, forgetting the table that sat lamely on the concrete.

“I haven’t met someone like you in a long time.”

You took a beat—a breath to calm your raging heart. “A teacher with too many skirts?” you asked, watching as the crinkles by his eyes faded and the warmth within them didn’t.

“Something like that.” His gaze didn’t leave yours as he spoke. Until he reached down and started back on the table. You tried your hardest not to be disappointed. “But to answer your question—no, I don’t work at a gym. And this table was only so easy because I have this.”

He snapped the last leg closed and reached for the glove on his left hand, slipping each of the fingers off before he revealed gold and silver and black. You marveled at the colors and the shine, wanting to touch it as his knuckles flexed and straightened. Leather gloves in the spring suddenly made sense.

“I think your kids woulda liked this a little more than your outfits. Didn’t wanna outdo you though, so I wore the gloves,” he gested, but there was a sadness there, an ache.

“How?”

It was the only thing you could think to say.

Bucky didn’t seem to mind, pulling the metal through his hair before setting his features back into a firm line. “Afghanistan. Don’t wanna put you through all the gory details, but there’s a reason I know Steve, and it’s not ‘cause we’re brothers. After this though—” he tapped the metal “—might as well be.”

You knew Steve had served, you had just never seen any effects of it on him. There was nothing physical left behind as a reminder, nothing he had to keep hidden behind gloves or jackets or impassive looks. He was always so bright, and after the laugh that had escaped this brooding man in front of you, you wondered if Bucky had been bright too.

The thought made your chest hurt, because there was so much you had missed when you first saw him, like the hidden lightness in his eyes and the way he looked at Emma. There was so much you were sure he deserved; you longed to tell him so many things, but Bucky Barnes didn’t seem like one for sympathy, so instead, you fought the pain in your chest and thought of him.

“Yeah, I think the kids would have loved your arm… but does it change colors?”

His gaze shot up to you, the last bit of a forlorn emotion leaving him. He appraised you for a moment, tilting his head to the side and taking another step forward until the space between you was shared. The thought that he might be angry had your lungs in a vice, until—

“Let me take you out to dinner.”

You let your breath go, squeaking out, “What?”

“Dinner. Might wanna meet there since I brought my bike and I’m not too sure how well your outfit would fare.”

You blinked, and then blinked again, completely at a loss for words before him. You had no idea how this conversation had landed on dinner, or a date, with Bucky, but the prospect of it had you both excited and reeling.

“I—”

Bucky reached up and tucked your hair behind your ear, the metal cooling your cheek as he asked again, “Let me take you out to dinner.”

You weren’t sure which part of you was answering as you replied, “Okay.”

From the parking lot, Steve couldn’t hear a thing, but Emma had filled him in on the events of the day. All it took was the whisper of a smile on his friend’s face, and the high-five between him and his daughter echoed in the car, Emma letting out a loud cheer as if she had any idea what was going on.

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky x reader #bucky barnes x female reader #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes oneshot #bucky barnes fanfiction #modern!bucky #Bucky Barnes #bucky barnes fluff

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ebongawk · 7 months

Note

Eddie and Chrissy have a big fight/argument/misunderstanding (but with a happy resolution please 🥺). Just for hurt/comfort sake.

Eddie couldn't wrap his head around it.

Reconnecting with Chrissy Cunningham (yeah, that Chrissy Cunningham) five years after leaving Hawkins to snap at his heels while he went out and made a name for himself had, at the time, seemed like an act of fate. He'd just gotten out of a year-long situationship that ended when their mutually agreed upon exclusivity had, apparently, been too exclusive for her.

Eddie wasn't heartbroken or anything. He didn't really let his attachments take up that much space in his chest, but it was disappointing to realize that, yet again, he was deemed not enough by a person with whom he'd expended so much time and effort.

But, whatever, right? Who gave a shit. Rockstars weren't supposed to dip their fingers into one honeypot at a time, anyway, so to speak. And Eddie was kinda in a place where he should have wanted to explore that.

(He didn't, but that seemed secondary.)

Then, in aforementioned act of fate, Chrissy Cunningham showed up at his signing booth at the end of a show, and all that space in his chest he hadn't allowed another person to occupy was suddenly pitched with a For Sale sign, paperwork drawn up and just waiting for her to take out the mortgage.

Wonder of wonders, she fucking did.

They'd just celebrated a year together by buying an adorable little three-bed townhouse in Carlsbad. It was kinda dated – the wallpaper had definitely been picked out by someone's grandma – but it was theirs, and Eddie fucking loved it. Chrissy did, too, if all the squealing was anything to go by.

Producers called up about a week later to let him know they were going on tour for four months, and Eddie and Chrissy were torn between elation and devastation, since she could only go with him for the first month before she had to be back at work.

Which was fine. They made it work. Eddie called whenever he had a chance and Chrissy had sent him off with polaroids and a letter about how much she loved him and the stuffed frog he'd won her at the San Diego County Fair and it was fine.

Except, recently, shit had been weird.

Like, weird weird.

Like, Chrissy could only talk for a few minutes weird. Like she'd missed his nightly phone call a few days ago because she'd been "out", and when he'd called her last night, he swore he heard a man's voice on the other end of the line.

He asked, and Chrissy explained that she forgot to mute the TV, but that was completely unlike her. Chrissy never forgot that kind of stuff because she always lamented that it was impossible to focus on their conversation if she had distractions in her periphery.

It hit him like a goddamn ton of bricks.

She's cheating on me.

And it didn't make sense, but then it did, because who the fuck wanted to wait around for some asshole guitarist in a band that barely had name recognition? For four fucking months? She was a publicist, for fuck's sake, she made plenty of money to support herself and Eddie was just the dead goddamn weight that nobody wanted––

He didn't want to believe it. But she knew he was getting home the following day, so Eddie did what any sane person would do. He boarded a plane twelve hours earlier than was originally planned, took a taxi to their new house, and was going to catch her in the fucking act.

Even if it ripped his heart to shreds with fucking dragon claws and made it impossible for him to ever love anyone else. That was just the fucking price he'd have to pay for trusting someone, he supposed.

The entire trip home (six hours), all he could think about was what he was going to say when he found her in bed with someone else. And he kept choking on his own tongue to keep the bile from coming up his throat.

Unlocking the door, Eddie set his duffel bag and guitar in the foyer, automatically toeing off his Reeboks (Chrissy was adamant about no shoes in the house) and walking down the hallway toward the kitchen.

It was empty.

Then, from up the stairs, a soft, continuous banging noise. Like a hammer tapping against a nail or––

Or a fucking bedpost hitting the wall.

Taking the stairs two at a time, Eddie rounded the corner and practically barged into their bedroom, shoulders heaving and fists clenched.

Empty.

A blink, then two, and Eddie looked around. There was something different about the room. Like, yeah, okay, it'd been a while since he'd been home, but the walls were... definitely not green when he left. Because they were covered in that awful wallpaper.

Right?

And... did they always have those built-in bookshelves around the picture window? And that window seat?

He nearly went to investigate, but then the banging started up again, and Eddie whirled around, looking at the ajar door of the empty guest room down the hall. Heart in his throat, he approached and cursed his own fingers for trembling like that.

(Didn't these hinges used to squeak?)

The room was not empty like it'd been when he left it.

In the middle, beneath a clear tarp, was a huge desk that was stacked with boxes. He couldn't make out everything hidden within them, but his synth pedal and headphones were spilling out over the cardboard tops.

Chrissy was standing on a stepladder in the corner, holding a hammer as she hung up... was that soundproofing?

Standing beside her was a man. A man Eddie immediately recognized as his uncle, given the bald head and set of shoulders. And, in the opposite corner of the room, Jonathan Byers and Nancy Wheeler were screwing things around the pieces of soundproof that were already hung.

Things like...

A guitar mount.

Jonathan looked up, his eyes widening as he let out a loud, "Oh, shit," at the unexpected ghost haunting the doorway. His statement made the other three pairs of eyes turn on him, each of them widening with shock.

"Eddie!" Chrissy shouted, nearly toppling off the stepladder in her haste to get down. Wayne's arms automatically stretched to catch her, but she was halfway across the room, practically leaping into Eddie's surprised embrace. "You're early!"

"Uh," he said, his voice breaking as his mind struggled to comprehend what was happening. "Y-Yeah. Just, uh, caught an earlier flight."

Chrissy's pointy little chin dug into his chest, her grin broad and her eyes glimmering in the sunlight still streaming through the window. "Well. I can't even be mad that you ruined your own surprise, I guess. I'm too happy to see you!"

Eddie's hands were still trembling.

"Surprise?"

"Yeah!" she said, still giddy with excitement. Not quite leaving his uncertain embrace, Chrissy turned, broadly motioning toward the room. "I was building you a studio! For, um, for songwriting and stuff. Because I know you have to make appointments to go to the recording studio. So, we took down all the drywall and double-insulated in here, and we're just finishing up the soundproofing tiles!"

Fuck, she was still grinning. Looking up at him with bright, expectant eyes as she waited for his response.

Before he could formulate one, she bounced, her eyes widening again. "Oh, and! And! Look what I did to the bedroom!"

She grabbed his hand, walking him back toward the room he'd already seen and whipping the door open with a flourish.

"Ta-da!" she exclaimed, motioning toward the walls, the shelves, the window seat. "That wallpaper was awful, so it was the first thing to go. Then, Wayne came down a couple weeks ago and helped me fit these shelves in, so we'd have somewhere for all our books! Isn't it lovely?" She gave a dreamy sigh, leaning her head against his chest and wrapping her arms around his midsection.

Oh, fuck.

She was–– Jesus Christ, he'd been so fucking convinced that Chrissy was cheating, and she'd been... She'd been rebuilding their goddamn house from the inside out. Creating a home for them, where they'd just been living in a place they liked.

She wanted him to come back to a home he could love.

"Not," he rasped, trying to blink away the sudden buildup of moisture in his eyes. "Not–– Not cheating?"

Chrissy's brow furrowed, her grin growing confused as she shook her head. "No?" she said, giving a little giggle. Then, she looked at him for a long moment, her smile gradually falling as understanding lifted the shades from her eyes. As the furrow in her brow creased from misunderstanding to complete heartbreak. "No," she repeated, more sure, more broken, and Eddie felt, all at once, like the world's biggest asshole.

She unwrapped her arms from around him, stepping back.

"Chrissy––"

"I'll, um," she interrupted, backing out of the room. "You can explore, I'll just... I have some stuff to finish up, okay?"

"Wait, Chrissy––"

But she was slipping out the bedroom and down the stairs, making Eddie feel fucking awful for assuming the worst. Because he knew her – of course he knew her. And of course Chrissy would never do something like that. She–– God, she was so fucking good, way too good for him, and he couldn't reconcile that so he made her the villain?

Old insecurities were fucking impossible to shed.

Their three guests were still in the guest bedroom – the studio – and Wayne gave him a smile as he finished up his wall of soundproofing.

"Crazy, huh?" he laughed, joining Eddie in the hallway when Eddie couldn't bring himself to enter the room. "She was a gosh darn dictator, trying to get all this finished before you made it back. I think even Miss Wheeler in there was impressed." Wayne chuckled.

He just looked at his uncle, lost, and said, "Wayne, I think I fucked up."

(to be continued)

#hellcheer #eddissy #eddie x chrissy #eddie munson #stranger things #chrissy x eddie #hellcheer drabble #chrissy cunningham #hurt/comfort #but we really only got the hurt here #this has apparently been sitting in my drafts for however long and I kinda....... forgot #lmao my bad

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rosewaterandivy · 1 month

Text

the four times you degraded yourself with the blight of Williamsburg (and the one time you escaped unscathed)

part of the everyone but you universe e.m. x f!oc reader, NSFW / MDNI, reader goes by esmé, warnings are cursing and vague smut - my usual brand of filth with some badly repressed ~feelings~ w.c.: 5.2K tagging my cheerleaders @powderblueblood and @jo-harrington who dealt with my hyper-fixated ass all day. 💜

PART THE FIRST: “Try getting a reservation at Dorsia now, you stupid fucking bastard!”

Of all the things you do for your best friend, being stood up by a the blind date you’d reluctantly agreed to has got to take the top prize. You’d been ready an hour ago, all dressed up with nowhere to go— the new dress you’d scored at the sample sale completed wasted on a dipshit who couldn’t bother to send a text about running late.

Checking your phone for the eighth time in as many minutes, you jolt at the unexpected sound from your buzzer. Having already kicked off your heels, you step to avoid them as you make your way to the door and press the button.

“Yes?”

“Yeah, hi, it’s me. Can you buzz me up?”

You sigh, not even a hint of an apology for wasting your time.

“I’m going to need more to go on than that, Son of Sam.”

There’s a pause, long enough for you to hope that maybe he’s thought better of it all and walked away already.

Alas, no such luck.

“Right, my bad. I’m Chrissy’s friend? Eddie.”

In lieu of a verbal response, you simply press on manicured finger to the button and buzz him in.

A few minutes later, he’s at your door and definitely not dressed for dinner— torn jeans, doc marten’s that have seen better days, a threadbare black t-shirt, topped with a leather jacket.

C’mon, Chrissy’s voice chimes in your head, Give it a chance! I worry about you all alone in the city now when Jay and I aren’t there.

And, in the spirit of not breaking the promise you’d made to your best friend, you do give him a chance.

He’s not terrible looking, you suppose. Maybe a bit unkempt, but he’s a writer not a stockbroker.

Eddie takes a long look at you after you turn to let him inside the apartment. And Chrissy did not tell a lie when she’d talked him into this, you were definitely his type— a bona fide smoke show with curves in all the right places, and a biting wit just simmering beneath the polished surface you’d cultivated.

Watching as you slip back into your heels, which only bring you near his shoulder once on, he thinks back to Chrissy’s pitch for this set up.

“Ed,” she began, settling herself into their favored booth at the all night diner just off of Berry Street. “She is my best friend, so do not fuck this up.”

He blows a raspberry and tosses his menu to the side, “I thought I was the recipient of that particular title.”

“You know what I mean.” She rolls her eyes, smiling as the waitress approached to take their orders. “I’m serious, Munson. I think she could be it for you— she’s in publishing, graduated top of her class at Columbia, whip-smart—”

“Lemma stop you right there Chris.” Eddie sets his elbows on the table and steeples his fingers. “This chick—”

“Esme.”

“Right, her.” He demures with a wave of his hand. “She sounds swell, a regular Sandy Dee.”

They nod in thanks when the waitress returns with their drinks.

“But is she, y’know.” Eddie raises his brows mischievously.

Chrissy blinks.

“You’re such a pig, Munson.”

Back in your apartment on the Upper West Side, you swipe through the booking app on your phone with a shake of your head. Eddie, having made himself comfortable on the couch, crosses his legs and rests his feet on the coffee table.

After your third sigh, he finally pipes up.

“What’s the matter? Miss your reservation at Dorsia?”

The snort you let out is unladylike but well warranted considering the only reason you’d missed said reservation at Serafina was solely because of the man making himself comfortable on your couch.

“Not quite,” You allow, sending off a quick message to the maître d’ at UnPublished. Maybe they could take a walk-in. Tossing your phone into your bag, you make toward the door. If you left now, you just might be able to snag a table according to your sources. “Why, d’you need to return some video tapes?”

The night only devolves from there. He’d arrived on his bike and your dress would not accommodate sitting on the back of a motorcycle. But the cabs were few and far between and Uber was out of the question with the current surge pricing. He suggests ordering in and you, foolishly agree, only to return from changing into something less restrictive and a bit more casual, to overhear him on the phone making plans with a person named Trinity, of all things, for, oh, about an hour later.

His voice had taken on what you’re appalled to discover is his attempt at seductive— low and soft, “Yeah, I’ll think of something. Don’t worry about it. Are you wearing the—”

What a fucking idiot.

You sincerely doubt that Trinity has a lingerie chest of La Perla, Agent Provocateur, and Eres at her disposal. Not that Munson, the cretin, would be deserving of any of it.

“Oh,” You chirp from behind him, enjoying that he jumps slightly at the sound of your voice. “Don’t let me keep you, Neo. By all means, free your mind.”

His exit is less than ideal; caught red-handed, Eddie makes no apologies for his behavior, but instead decides to double the fuck down, and somehow make this disaster of an evening out to be no one’s fault but your own.

So, while the book you lob against the door at his hastily retreating form isn’t as on brand as your earlier banter would suggest, you find it’s fitting all the same: Less Than Zero.

PART THE SECOND: always the casket, never the body.

The wedding was beautiful, as to be expected.

A perfect spring day in Manhattan, flowers in bloom, sun shining with a soft breeze that passes by as it pleases.

Not that you were enjoying any of that, at present.

God forbid the maid of honor have a flute of champagne at the reception, or kick off her heels for a minute before being swindled into some bridal party bullshit.

Which is how you are graced with the presence of Munson in an elevator to the bridal suite.

“Everything up in the room?”

You nod, clutching the bag in your grasp. Trailing behind him as the elevator doors open.

“Not having a panic attack, are you?”

“No,” You croak. “M’fine.”

He laughs at that, “Right, because it would be awfully inconvenient for the MOH to slack in her duties.” He pulls out his phone and taps out a message before shoving it back into his pocket.

“Jus’ gotta decorate the bridal suite and then you can get back to drinking yourself into oblivion, right?”

He says this under his breath and more to himself than to you, but it stings all the same. And you’re far too exhausted to snap any scathing retort back, anyway.

Entering the bridal suite, he takes the bag from you and walks with purpose to the bedroom. The maids had been by, clearly, and the various bags left by bridesmaids had been stowed at the font desk. All except for yours, the overnight bag was right where you’d left it earlier by the door.

Eddie grabs the chilled champagne from the fridge, finds an ice bucket and begins to fill it up. Bringing both along, he stepped into the bedroom to find you decapitating roses and scattering their petals on the bedspread. You glance up as he places the champagne, ice bucket, and two flutes on the bedside table.

“Did you see where I left my phone?”

He smirks and pulls it from his left pocket, “Swiped it from the head table when you went to the bar.”

“Huh, thanks.”

The rest of the night passes with a blur— dancing, toasts, the whole nine yards. With Chrissy and Jason sent off for the night, the reception dwindles and the liquor takes its course. You float more than walk to the bank of elevators, or at least it feels that way.

And, as luck would have it, you’re forced into sharing yet another elevator ride with Munson.

"Are you okay?"

You whirl around. "It's impolite to sneak up on people," You snap, but feel a rush of relief. It's Eddie. Just Eddie.

"It's impolite to bitch at someone who came looking for you to see if you were alright," He volleys back, his brows furrowed. "You were kind of, uh, stumbling to the door there."

"And what are you here to do, Munson?" You ask, scathingly. "Fix me? Offer me the shoulder of your rented suit to cry on?"

"I'm trying to be your friend," He says lowly. "We promised – "

"The wedding's over. Stop using Chrissy as an excuse."

He takes two steps, closing the distance between you. "Maybe I needed an excuse. Every time I talk to you, you snap at me, and it ends in a fight, and we don't get anywhere."

You lean back against the wall and cross your arms loosely.

“We were never really friends, Munson. We both know that.”

“Esmé.”

“And we don’t need to start now.”

It’s just so infuriating. So, okay, look— Eddie knows he fucked it up. Knew it the second he took that call in your apartment and has known it every second since, like Chrissy would ever let him forget. And there’s no excuse, so he doesn’t know why he bothers trying.

He’s not used to having nice things. He’s not used to having his ass handed to him or having someone keep up with his rapid fire thoughts. He’s never had a filter, and he’s never been lucky enough to catch the eye of someone like you.

“Munson,” You prompt after a prolonged pause.

He glances up, maybe seeing for the first time how lonely you are.

“Is the concept of meaningless sex hard for you to comprehend?" You ask. Your voice sounds strange to your own ears, high and breathy.

"Is that really – "

"Yes, it’s all – "

"That's all you want?" He talks over you. "That's really the only thing you want?"

"It isn't just what I want," You laugh, cool and unfeeling. "It's all I can offer."

And maybe his heart breaks for you, just a little.

Because you both know you deserve so much more than that. Or, at least he realizes this. Wants to find every guy or gal that wore you down and treated you like dirt, including himself, he wants to rip them three new assholes and stuff ‘em full of bullets.

"Fine," He says, lips ghosting against your own. “If you just want to fuck, then fine, we can fuck."

You gasp softly against his lips. "Munson," You mumble, not quite a protest. His hands are clutching at your dress, pulling the fabric up, slipping his hands beneath the hem to touch your skin.

"Meaningless sex," He mutters as his mouth drops to your neck, trailing kisses down the column of your throat. "S'what you want…"

Your back hits something strong and solid, and then Eddie's hands are hooking under your thighs, pressing you onto the low counter in the hotel room. Vaguely, somewhere at the very back of your mind, you wonder if he was always strong enough to do that, and his fingers hook into your lacy underwear, tugging.

Grabbing onto the collar of his shirt, you yank him closer, moving your legs apart so he can stand between them. "Don't contact me," You say, biting his bottom lip. "That's the rule. If this doesn't mean anything – "

"Shut the fuck up," He breathes, his mouth trailing down your neck again.

PART THE THIRD: wouldn't know a good thing if it came up and slit your throat.

You ended up in Brooklyn.

No rhyme or reason to it, just didn’t have anywhere else to go.

The Carvers were snug in a birthing suite at Lennox Hill, safe in their newborn bubble. Zoë Lux Carver having made her scheduled arrival at 3:27 A.M. on the morning of May 3rd. You’d been trying not to fall asleep in the uncomfortable plastic chair just outside Chrissy’s room. Doing everything from pacing the polished tile floors to hunting down some truly terrible coffee from a machine a few halls away.

Munson comes running down the hall, wallet chain jangling against his sweatpants clad leg, leather jacket hastily thrown, and hair an absolute mess. As if he didn’t think about what would be socially appropriate attire for meeting one’s goddaughter.

“Is she here yet? Did I miss it?” He’s heaving slightly, reminding you that he was never athletically inclined, never the most into physical fitness. Though, to hear Chrissy tell it, Munson can certainly outrun most people, if presented with the right motivation to do so.

“No, you haven’t missed it.” You try to sound dismissive, an attempt to guilt him for his tardiness because Carver had called him hours ago at this point, but instead your voice comes out soft, and to your disgust, maybe a bit endearing.

Perish the thought.

And not twenty minutes later does Zoe arrive earthside.

It’s a sobering experience for you. To be confronted with and realize that despite all of your professional success, you’d always somehow be playing catch-up in your personal life. Never quite measuring up to the Chrissy Carver American Dream.

A harried Jason comes out of the delivery suite to tell you that she’s here, that mom and baby are doing well. His voice is so bright, you almost don’t recognize it. He speaks quickly, arms flailing as he nods back toward Chrissy’s room, but you don’t hear a word he says, don’t latch onto the fact that he’s probably invited you to go back and meet the baby.

Instead of following Jason, who had hugged you all of five minutes ago, maybe for the first time ever, instead of maybe lobbing a bon mot and bringing you back to earth, Munson cautiously pulls you toward him.

“I’m going to hug you now,” He tells you, “And it’s going to be a nice gesture, comforting if you will. And it would be ideal, if you could refrain from injuring me in the process so.” As Eddie closes in, you can feel the heat radiating from his body. “Time to retract those claws, kitty.”

And yeah, he’s warm and it’s… well, nice. The spicy, bohemian scent of his cologne and the faintest trace of tobacco couple with a soft sigh to remind you that you’re not the only one who can’t measure up.

“One day,” He says, devoid of his perpetual scorn and ridicule. And then, he rests his head atop yours and for a brief moment, you allow yourself to revel in his warmth.

So, yeah. After meeting the baby and laying eyes on Chrissy, the newly minted mom, you found yourself face down, ass up in the Brooklyn loft of one Eddie Munson.

It’s just a fuck, that’s all it ever is between you two— what happens in Brooklyn, stays in Brooklyn… or Uptown… or Hawkins. You don’t have to talk, not at this point when you’ve had enough of each other to commit it to memory.

There are rules, of course. Just the garden variety stuff: no romance, no calling or texting, no soft words or slow sex, and absolutely no kissing … on the mouth. Munson is, shockingly, okay with it— boundaries work for him as does getting his dick wet on a semi-regular basis.

As much as it pains you to admit this (and it truly does pain you), he’s a pretty decent fuck. Sure, it was touch and go there for a minute, but he’s a fairly quick study. Knows when to go hard and when to ease up, keeps those hygiene wipes you prefer in his bedside drawer, washes his sheets on a regular basis, and then he’s got those fingers that drive you positively insane.

So, when he’s buried to the hilt and your legs are shaking after an orgasm or two, it takes you a minute to realize that things have taken a decidedly different turn.

Eddie’s turned your face toward him ever so slightly, and his hand is gliding up your jaw, fingers slipping into your hair.

"No," You whisper, fingers curling tighter against the sheets as you pull back. "No, no, you can't - you just kissed me."

"You kissed me," He says, and then he kisses you again.

Your eyes blow wide. What, when!? Have you lost it so completely—young, dumb, and full of come—that you had somehow missed the fact that you’d gone and kissed Munson?

"Stop it," You gasp. "Stop." You’re very sure that that's what you want, for him to stop kissing you like you’d ever given him permission to do so, but your body disagrees. For some idiotic reason, you can't stop leaning back toward him, and his mouth tastes like something you could grow to crave more of.

"Vance," He sighs. Eddie leans his forehead against yours, and you’re frozen for a moment, just breathing. "Please shut up," he adds, infuriatingly polite.

"Stop it," You say again, offended, but he claims your mouth with his again and you can't find it in yourself to resist, not even when he coaxes your mouth open and your tongues brush. Shivering a little, you allow him to lay you back against the sheets.

His hand smoothes down your side, knuckles brushing against the side of your breast before his hand slides further down, curling around you hip. "God," He breathes. "You are somethin’ else.”

"Stop," You say again, but this time you just breathe it against his mouth, pressing into him.

Eddie groans, fingers digging into your skin, and your heart starts to pound.

PART THE FOURTH: always a godmother, never a god.

You peek out from behind a stone wall in the entryway of the church and into the chapel, checking to see if everyone’s seated.

Once upon a time, you had never heard of a town called Hawkins, Indiana. And you were all the better for it. But once Zoë arrived, the newest addition to the picture perfect family of Chrissy and Jason Carver, change had reared its ugly head.

Gone were the weekly brunches and dinners with Chrissy (and all too frequently, Jason), meandering through the farmer’s markets on the weekends, sleepovers in the living room of your apartment with take out and pints of Ben & Jerry’s.

No, instead, your best friend and her baby relocated back to her hometown of Hawkins, seeing fit to drag you out to this rinky dink excuse of a town for your goddaughter’s christening. Not that it’s her fault that Chrissy and Jason opted to move back home, but you’d had plans for Zoë back in the city. You suppose all those donations to the Nightingale-Bamford School were worthless now.

“Nice dress.”

You start, a hand flying up to your heart. You scowl and turn primly on your heel.

“Thanks, thought it would go well with the baby.”

He smirks, lips tilting up to one side as he eyes you up and down.

“It’s a liiiiittle sheer, donchta think? I mean, we are in a church.”

“Surprised you haven’t gone up in flames, Munson,” You volley back.

But before things can get ugly, Chrissy and Jason arrive with Zoë and the reverend. She looks positively adorable in the bespoke christening gown you’d insisted on paying for, the cutest pink bundle of joy all swaddled up in billowy cream and ivory fabrics.

At the appointed moment, Chrissy gently passes off Zoë into your waiting arms.

“We are honored with the privilege of being here today to witness and support in faith the baptism of Zoë Lux Carver.” The reverend begins, “I hereby charge Esmé Vance and Edward Munson with the responsibility of seeing to the spiritual welfare of this child. I will now ask you a series of ceremonial questions.”

Eddie is only somewhat distracted by the cut of your dress, how your tits look close to spilling over the neckline of your it, and the way the you appear positively poured into it. So he’s not quite paying attention to the reverend when he asks:

“Edward Munson, do you renounce Satan and all the spiritual forces that rebel against God?”

There’s an awkward pause and few errant coughs from the congregants, that is until you jab the heel of your shoe into his toes. “Munson.”

"Ow; fu-huh-udge, Vance!" He hisses and backs up instantly, staring at you. "What?" He winces as he shifts his weight from one foot to the other.

You purse your lips and sigh. "What is wrong with you? Did you get a lobotomy?" You hiss impatiently.

"No, I – " He says again. He’s pretty sure his second toe is bleeding. "I thought…"

“He asked if you renounced Satan, really shouldn’t be that much of a head scratcher.”

It’s only then that he realizes Jason and Chrissy are staring daggers at him. Shit.

“Hmm, right. Yeah, I renounce him.”

You roll your eyes as the reverend move on to your ceremonial question, replying much more punctually than Eddie had.

Despite Munson’s near blaspheming, the rest of the celebration goes off without a hitch. A tasteful lunch organized by Jason’s parents back at the house, a few photos snapped for posterity, and one or two healthy pours of cabernet split between Chrissy and yourself.

Of course, none of that accounted for winding up at Munson’s door down the hall from yours.

Eddie stares at you for a moment after he opens the door of the bedroom. He's in plaid pajama pants and a worn gray t-shirt, his eyes bleary. His head tilts to one side. "Hmm," He mumbles.

“Munson.” You whisper, hoping he’ll hop to before Zoë’s midnight feeding and Chrissy’s inevitable discovery of whatever the fuck this was. Embarrassing? Shameful?

Desperate, at the very least.

"I will impale your other toe," You say pointedly. "Don’t test me."

“Hey, no,�� He mutters, still sleep addled. “None of that.”

You bite your lip and resolve not to look down at his bare feet. "You haven't invited me in."

Eddie glances back up at you, and there's something else in his eyes, deeper than the confusion and the sleepiness. "I thought it was a dream," He mumbles. He turns around, limping slightly as he heads for bed.

He leaves the door wide open. You wait for a moment before you walk in and carefully shut the door behind you.

You swallow hard. "I'm sorry.”

He slips back under the sheets and straightens up. "What for?"

You blink. "For your foot," You say slowly; it should be obvious.

He scoffs, but doesn't reply.

"I just want to sleep," You say softly after a moment. Thank you for letting me stay, you almost say, but don't.

Eddie waves a hand across the bed. "All yours."

You can't stop remembering the days when Munson burst into your life, when arguing turned into banter, when he'd tease you over comma placements, and who fell off the bestseller’s list. You can't stop remembering nights in bed, when his laughter rang into your ear against the quiet of your bedroom, when his voice was the last sound you heard before falling asleep, when you thought about him too much and you'd gasp to clutch the phone a little tighter and not, repeat not, think about what it could be like if he was there with you instead of all the way in Brooklyn.

You can't stop remembering the night you came home with him and the way you fell into his bed, the way his hands slid under your skirt, the way he whispered yes, you into your ear.

And you can't tell him, because all you are to each other are reluctant acquaintances due to forced proximity. Two people who under every circumstance and known law of the universe should not be within two hundred feet of each other, thrown together by their best friend, bound forever through their goddaughter.

There’s no way you could bring yourself to say it, and no way he’d understand.

But you can kiss him, so you do.

CUTTING ROOM FLOOR: sense has chased you all your life, but you’re faster.

“Look, Chris, I’m sure that everything is going to be fine,” You mutter, following your best friend through the labyrinth of her white-picket fence suburban sprawl of a home. In one hand, you have a bag of uninflated and atrociously pink balloons, in the other is your phone that hasn’t stopped buzzing for the past half hour.

And, shoving aside the pink and glitter monstrosity that has taken over the Carver home, you find it difficult to believe that Zoë is turning one. That it’s been an entire year since you’d held her in your arms at the hospital.

“I know Ez,” Chrissy sniffles, already going to pieces just as the party begins. “I guess I’m just a little—” Desperately trying to keep her emotions at bay, Chrissy stops short and abruptly turns to you.

You fold the smaller woman into your arms without thought and hug her tight. Chrissy’s emotional outbursts are something you’ve had to adjust to over the past year. She cried for days after leaving New York and moving back to Hawkins. And, after veritably running what amounted to a gauntlet to secure a reputable and reliable babysitter, on Jason and Chrissy’s first night out since becoming parents, the tiny blonde had checked her phone excessively and begged her husband to blow off their reservation to go back to Zoë.

“Hey, listen to me Cunningham,” You smile and set her back a pace, hands on her shoulders. “Zoë is one lucky kid, and she is so loved.” You turn her around to see the piles of presents on the kitchen counter, a cake that’s perfectly iced and decorated on the island at the center of the kitchen, and the living room which has been transformed into what you can only hope is Jason’s worst nightmare— pink glitter and streamers and balloons that float up to the rafters on the ceiling.

And it startles you, a little, to contemplate the lengths you’d go to in order to ensure the little girl’s happiness. How much you’ve grown to care for, what Munson jokingly (you hope) refers to as “the little freeloader.”

Chrissy squeezes your hands tightly, cheeks coloring with the slightest embarrassment at her teary outburst, before she’s swept off by a neighbor or friend, someone in her mommy and me yoga group, maybe.

“Hey, uh,” An all too familiar voice draws you from your thoughts. “I think they’re cutting the cake now.”

Eddie’s leaning against the doorframe of the nursery, wearing the same black shirt he had worn to your non-date, looking hesitant and understanding, his brown eyes scanning Zoë’s nursery, likely reflecting on all of the time and effort it took to make the room come together. You know for a fact that Eddie and Jason assembled all the furniture, a very moody and exhausted pregnant Chrissy’s version of the ‘get along’ t-shirt.

And he’d come away with no less than four fingers “accidentally” hit by the hammer. While Jason had no fewer than five things (shelves, electric screwdrivers, hammers, plywood, and a leg of the crib) “dropped” on his feet.

“Do you know what flavor it is?”

The look he gives you is flat and incredulous, as if you’ve insulted is intelligence by daring to assume that he didn’t.

“Vanilla,” He says, pulling his hair into some semblance of a top-knot. “With the stuff in it.”

Funfetti, you mentally correct him, your inner voice pretentious despite yourself.

“There was a hoard of kids jonesing for it,” He continues, “So if you wanna slice…”

“No, I’m good— let’s go,” You offer, a slight smile on your lips as you pass him in the hallway.

His shoulder brushes yours as your descend the stairs into the screaming kids and chaos down below. The cake, which is funfetti with pink frosting according to Jason’s mother who corrects Eddie no more than three times about it, is a huge hit with the kids and adults, alike.

Zoë smears her first slice of cake all across her face with chubby little hands. Photos are taken, people are posed and prodded as they await the flash and prompt to “look over here!” There’s several of Jason and Chrissy flanking their baby girl. You and Eddie are roped in as well, Zoë and her biggest fans. Eventually, Jason and Chrissy set aside for photos of just you and Eddie with their daughter, as she smears bright pink frosting all over Eddie’s shirt and the laugh that slips up your throat is more of a cackle than you’d like.

“We’d like to propose a toast,” Jason declares, after all the guests have left— after their parents have been shuffled off into their cars, and Zoë has been put to bed. The four of you sitting on the living room floor with various hues of pink dotted along skin, clothing, and hair. Chrissy passes out flutes of champagne, as if they’d planned for this, that is until Munson swipes the bottle like the greedy bastard he is.

You briefly wonder if they’re about to announce that they’re having another baby, and blanch at the thought. Two babies under two, how in the hell—

“Well,” Jason begins, “It’s been one hell of a year and, honestly, Chris and I couldn’t have made it through without your help.” He pauses looking both you and Eddie in the eye, and it’s oddly sincere? Eddie’s uncomfortable cough breaks the tenuous calm.

Later, after Chrissy has deemed the living room and kitchen livable once again and everyone has said their goodnights, you wind up outside a familiar door.

"And if I kissed you again - " Eddie says and stares at you for a long moment, trying to read between the lines.

You glance up at him, lips in an almost-smirk. "Don't be presumptuous."

He smiles at you and your heart flutters. "I would never.”

"Munson," You cut him off. "Don't assume that you know what I want."

His hand is on your cheek then, fingers brushing against your hairline, and his kiss doesn't take you by surprise, not even for a moment.

"We won't talk," He breathes against your lips.

"I hate you," You whisper, your hands landing on his shoulders, your resolve toppling to the floor. "I hate you more than I've ever hated anyone."

He has the audacity to laugh. "You're still talking."

"You're still kissing me," You mumble.

"Are we compromising?" He wonders teasingly.

"You and me?" You laugh, head tipping back as his lips trail down your neck. "Impossible."

In the morning after you leave for the airport and say your hushed goodbyes to Chrissy, Zoë, and Jason, just when it feels like you’ve lived a million years since the last time you’d found yourself in his arms, there is a message from Eddie Munson on your voicemail.

"You left," He says. He doesn't sound bitter. He sounds normal. "I just wanted to tell you that I'm not surprised.”

#eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x you #eddie munson x oc #eddie munson fanfic #stranger things fanfic #modern!eddie #f!oc reader #fic: eby

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