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#sam dalton
peonierose · 4 months
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Once (5/5)
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**This story takes place before it was revealed that Addison would come back/is alive **
Book: The Nanny Affair & Open Heart Crossover AU
Characters involved: Sam Dalton (M!MC), Ethan Ramsey (M!MC) and Vivian Dalton (F!MC)
Part V of V / Miniseries
Words: 1,900+
Rating: Mature
TW: Cancer, character death, mental illness
Summary: It’s weeks after Addis funeral. Sam and the boys settle in a bit, when Sam gets a surprise.
A/N: This is in honor of my friend Mira who died from ovarian cancer. May you rest in peace 💜
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Sam
I was finished at work and got Carter to drive me home while reading through an email I got from Ethan.
I smile even though it’s been a month since Addie‘s funeral.
And it still feels so fresh in my mind.
Thankfully the boys don’t remember too much of that sad day, which turned into a less sad day with my new friend Ethan Ramsey and my brother Robin.
We got pretty drunk, but nobody bothered us. So we kept talking about everything and nothing.
I finished reading through the email that Ethan replied to and put my phone in my pocket to look outside the car window. Seeing all the streets and alleys pass me by while driving through New York.
I mentioned to Ethan, I’d love to go on a little family trip with the boys. Just to relax a bit. So it would be nice to spend some time in Boston. I even asked him if it would be right to visit him in Boston and bring along Mason and Mickey. He was excited and dare I say it a little smile played on his lips.
A contented smile tugs at my own lips.
We haven’t done any family trips in a long while. So this would be the perfect opportunity.
The car slows down and I realize we’ve arrived at the apartment complex.
Carter clears his throat as if nervous.
I smile softly at Carter. He’s a good man. I always respected him a lot.
”Thank you, Carter. Have a safe trip home.“
He turns around to look at me.
”You can take the day off if you’d like. I’ll drive home to my parent's place to pick up the boys.“
Carter smiles and nods.
”Very well Mr. Dalton. Have a safe trip.“
”Thank you, Carter.“
I get out of the car and walk towards the apartment. I pass the front desk. When Marvin‘s voice holds me back.
”Mr. Dalton!“
I stop and walk towards him.
He’s in his twenties and works here part-time to earn some money for his college tuition.
”Hello Marvin. How’s it going? How’s college?“
I ask as I shake his hand.
He grins and shoves his caramel-brown hair to the side. His green eyes lit up at my question.
”Oh thanks for asking Sir. It’s a lot. But I’ll have a study session with some friends later. Cramming for a test that’s coming up. I’d never thought college would be this difficult. But I like the challenge.“
I smile.
”That’s good to hear. Keep studying. And you’ll see it’ll pay up.“
I wink and he grins.
”Was there a package or something for me?“ I was thinking maybe it was something that Addie ordered.
I’ve had to unsubscribe from some of the magazines she subscribed to.
He scratches his head and then he seems to remember.
”Oh right. This was delivered for you this morning.“
He hands me a small mint-colored envelope.
With my name and home address written in beautiful calligraphy on it.
Curious who could be sending me a letter. Most people text or write an email these days.
I take the envelope and smile at Marvin.
”Thank you, Marvin. I’ll be heading upstairs and then I’ll be at my parent's to pick up the twins. So I won’t be at home later.“
Marvin grins at me.
”Sure thing Mr. Dalton. Have a safe trip. And send your love to your parents and your twins.“
I smile. A genuine one this time. One that wasn’t forced out of me because I was trying to bring joy to my face even though I didn’t feel too much of it in the last couple of weeks. The twins are keeping me sane and happy these days.
”I will. And good luck with your test. I know you’ll do just fine.“
He grins.
”Thanks, Mr. Dalton.“
I wave goodbye and Marvin takes a seat at the desk.
While I ride in the elevator I wonder who’s sent me a letter. I ponder over that question when I get into my apartment and get a change of clothes for something less office formal.
As I pick up my car keys I walk by the picture of Addison and hold up the picture frame.
We went skydiving that day.
That’s when the picture was taken. Her blonde hair is blowing into her face, but she‘s got the biggest smile on her face.
We had a lot of fun that day. Even though Addi was terrified at first, that fear settled pretty soon and then she screamed »I want to do this again.«
I grin at the memory all the while to my car and then on the drive over to my parent's house. I get there and my mom opens the wide doors.
”Sam. You made it.“
She hugs me and I lean down to hug her back.
She smiles and pats my cheek gently, making me feel as if I’m 12 again. Instead of 36. I smile at her and she gestures for me to come inside.
”Come on in. The twins just fell asleep after running around the garden all day. Playing action hero. Whatever that means.“ She grins and I chuckle.
”Sounds like Mason and Mickey.“
I walk in after my mom and she guides me to the garden where she set up a nice late lunch.
”Mom! You didn’t have to go to any trouble.“
She turns and grins, her steps not even faltering.
”I didn’t do this for you, Samuel. I was hungry too. So it was me being indulgent.“
I sit down in one of the comfy dark grey garden chairs. While I let the beautiful and warm sunshine caress my face.
Before my mom can sit down her phone rings and she sighs.
”Pray that this is your father. Who I hope has a good excuse for interrupting our lunch. Because I'm starving.“
I grin.
”Should I wait for you?“ I ask my mom who holds her phone to her ear.
She shakes her head. And walks away to take her call.
I dig in and remember how nostalgic this feels to have lunch at my parent's place.
Then something pokes me. That’s when I remembered I’d forgotten about the letter.
I put down my fork and took out the mint-colored envelope to open it and read what was inside.
When I open it I almost let it fall to the floor.
It’s a letter from Addi.
I lean back in my chair. Shivering despite the sunshine outside.
When I look at the letter again I start to read it.
Sam,
while I’m sitting here, letting the sunshine caress my face and just letting all thoughts drift away, enjoying the here and now, I wanted to tell you something.
No. I wanted to put it in writing. Because I feel that you need to read this for yourself.
Thank you. From the bottom of my heart. I know I can be difficult sometimes.
You laughed at that I know you did, don’t deny it.
I interrupt reading the letter to let out a surprised laugh. Then I continue reading Addis' letter. Even now that she’s gone she still makes me laugh.
You never let me walk alone. Always being there for me. Especially in those last months. For that, I will always be grateful.
The time I spent with you, was the most beautiful time of my life. I will always keep those memories close to my heart. From the moment we met, I knew. You are the one for me (cheesy I know, but it’s true).
Never letting me forget I’m more than a spoiled rich girl, who had it easy. Even though that’s not true at all. People just never bothered to take a peek behind the curtains.
You though? You were different, Sam.
I thought to myself back then, who’s this hot guy asking me out? What is it he wants? To get laid? Or is it more than just some hot sex? Gosh, this sounds weird even in writing. Please ignore my embarrassing moment.
Back to what I was trying to say.
You were so nice and charming. Flirting with me all the time. (You thought you were so subtle with those little gifts and compliments here and there? I’ll let you in on something. You weren’t. But I think I loved you already.)
These past few months…were…difficult, painful, and overwhelming. When I got diagnosed I…just sat there… in that doctor’s office not knowing what to do. Should I cry? Or should I scream? But I know I wouldn’t have solved anything by that.
Sam, I know you were trying your best with me, with Mickey and Mason. Your work? Trying to juggle all of it?
Shouldering everything on your own, never asking for help. And I just made it worse by being stubborn and difficult.
Please know that I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you the way I most likely did. I hope that you can forgive me someday.
I’m not trying to guilt-trip you or wrestle out an apology.
I want you to forgive yourself. To stop being so hard on yourself.
You deserve everything good this world has to offer.
Don’t mourn me too long. (I was told widowers are hot) shake your head all you want, but you know it’s true.
I even went so far as to make you a little bucket list:
Live
Laugh
Kiss (and tell)
Be adventurous
Do things that are out of your comfort zone (and no I don’t mean just skydiving)
Hook up (even in weird places)
Get married (you always looked way too hot in a suit, though it looks better on the floor anyway)
Go to a strip club (Stop rolling your eyes at me)
Do crazy experiments with the boys :) (make a mess of the kitchen)
But most important of all don’t shut yourself off from love.
When it comes knocking, open the door. Let yourself be surprised. Don’t let me be the one to hold you back. You know I always wanted to see you happy.
I’ll be watching over my three favorite boys.
Always,
Addi
When I finished reading the letter I just sat there with tears in my eyes and held the letter close to my heart because I had the strange feeling I could conjure her into existence one more time by holding the letter as close to my heart as I could.
And just like that my pain and my sorrow were lifted a little.
It’s as if Addi knew all the right words to say to me. Knowing exactly what would help me move on a bit easier.
”Oh Addi. You surprise me as always. But there’s nothing to forgive. I promise I’ll take care of the boys and I might even find a nice woman who I can share my life and love with. Someday.“
I know that when the right person stumbles into my life I’ll know. And with Addis' blessing, I won’t feel like I’m cheating or disrespecting her memory.
I will always love and cherish what we had. But I know she’s in a better place. Free of any pain. Only filled with love and joy. Watching over us.
I get up from the table and look up at the sky, shielding my eyes from the glaring sun.
I know it sounds stupid, but it’s as if I can hear Addis's laughter and I smile. The pain in my heart lessened a bit.
And I know things will be okay. Mason, Mickey, and I will be alright.
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cariantha · 7 months
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Because I've seen so much hate already, I've been nervous to share my excitement about this. But I will no longer be ashamed! I'm so freaking excited for this. Judge me if you want. I don't care. I live for this TNA trashy drama.
The only thing that would excite me more is an Open Heart reboot from Ethan's POV.
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OKAY! WHY IS THAT IN THE CHOICES UNIVERSE HIGH SCHOOL TEENS ARE MUCH MORE CAPABLE OF HANDLING UNREQUITED CRUSHES AND JEALOUSY (Gabriela: Immortal Desires, Emma Hawkins: HSS) THAN FREAKING ASS ADULTS?! (Sam Dalton, Ian Kingsley)
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brycesgirl · 7 months
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I made this edit forever ago so I decided let’s do a poll with it
I’m at table 1
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Sent by anonymous
‘I hate when there are gender choices for LI’s, and when people don’t like the male LI’s (Sam Dalton for example), they’ll scream from the rooftops about how toxic and horrible he is and say that his behavior is unacceptable……but if you play with the female version of the LI, then it’s ok. I’ve seen this said so many times about these characters. Misandry is real too and the amount of it here is extremely appalling and just goes to show the massive double standard and hypocritical mindset.’
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MOD’S PERSONAL OPINIONS!
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txemrn · 1 year
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Somewhere Else
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Book: The Nanny Affair, Book 3
Word Count: ~4730 (I haven't written TNA in a loooong time... I had a lot to say)
Song Inspo: "Paris" by Taylor Swift
Summary: Brynn (MC) reminisces about her whirlwind of a wedding day that was filled with jitters and professions of love.
Warning: a little language; fluff; bits of angst
AN: This is my submission for @moodmusicmonday's the Luck of the Draw! I'm not exactly a Swiftie, but this was so much fun, gleaning inspo from a song I otherwise would never have known! Thank you to whoever sent it, and to my amazing counter-part @sfb123 (who... I don't know if y'all know this, but she has been running MMM for most--if not all--of 2023): thank you for hosting this event, sister! You did a GREAT job!
A/N 2: These characters, some of the plot and even some of the dialogue belong to our friends at Pixelberry! Not truly preread or beta'd, so please excuse my errors!
~🖤~
Present
"... tonight on ET, we have the wedding exclusive of billionaire bachelor Samuel Dalton and his nanny-turned-fiancée Brynn Schuyler–"
The glow of the screen flickers to black before hosting a new picture.
"... I'm here with the groom's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mason Dalton. Seeing your son at the altar like that, tell us –"
 The soft click of a button changes to another channel.
"...the two are pictured here before they scurried off to an undisclosed location, some believe they are still here in Mexico–"
He turns off the television before tossing the remote onto the coffee table in our suite.  He pulls his phone out of his pocket, running an anxious hand through his thick, chestnut waves. No doubt, he's staring at dozens of missed calls and unanswered texts. 
I don't know if it was the turning of the bathroom doorknob, or if he could hear my nervous, labored breathing, but he abruptly stops, dropping his phone as he fixes his hungry gaze to me. A crooked smile forms as he devours me with his dark eyes, the flecks of copper reflecting in the candlelight.
Butterflies evade my belly as I stand before him, wearing nothing but the white shirt from his tux. I fidget with the cuffs of the long sleeves as they keep falling past my hands. I can feel him watching my body, an innocent awe etching across his face.
"I hope you don't mind me borrowing your shirt." I blush, averting my eyes as the oversized cotton material slouches off of my sunkissed shoulder, exposing my bare skin.  "I don't exactly have anything else–"
"It's perfect," he croons softly. He stalks closer to me, his hands finding mine. "You really think I wanted to see you a moment longer in that dress?" He chuckles, the warmth in his tone exhilarating my senses.
We fall into a comfortable silence, our eyes locked on one another. 
We're finally here.
Him. And me. Forever.
------
Earlier that day
“...So as I look to our… to our–” I pause from my neurotic pacing, glancing down at my notes before quickly darting my eyes away once again.  I wrote my wedding vows weeks ago, and had no problem memorizing them. But something about today… something is freaking me out.
“So as I look to our future, I vow to… I vow to, um… Damnit!”  I hold up my vows again, but with my clumsy, nervous fingers, I accidentally drop the index cards. “Shit! Shit!”  I try to catch them as each one floats into various directions all over the floor, some of them finding their way underneath the furniture of my bridal dressing room suite.  With a heavy sigh, I crawl on my knees, attempting to reach the ones that fell under the coffee table. 
“Happy wedding day–!”
I jump.  The sudden chirp of my best friend's voice causes the back of my skull to meet the glass table with an abrupt thud followed by a tearful groan. "Ow!"  I fall forward, my face finding the ornate rug as my fingers shield my now-aching head.
"Brynn!" Jenny panics, seeing my body now splayed on the floor. Aditya helps me up, assisting me to a nearby chaise lounge.  Marisol fills a tea towel with ice before applying it to the back of my head with care. Jenny plops down next to me, biting her nail in worry. "What were you doing down there?"
I force a cordial smile, holding up a single note card. "Vows," I mutter, the small gesture making me wince from the surge of pain.
"Ahh! Your vows!" Jenny squeals at a higher decibel than normal. "You're finally a blushing bride!  Can you believe it?"
"I… I can't believe it." My eyes widen in shock. I'm trying to match my best friend's enthusiasm, but I'm starting to wonder if I'm missing the bride gene. You know; the one that makes you giggle like a schoolgirl  at even the dumbest jokes and cry happy, pretty tears at everything bridal.
 Me? I think I'm about to hurl.
Jenny grabs my hand, admiring my engagement ring yet again.  I blame her pregnancy hormones, and her desire to be locked down with someone.  No doubt, she'd prefer Aditya, but at this point, I think she'll take anyone.
"Mrs. Samuel J. Dalton," Jenny singsongs, letting go of my fingers. She clasps her hands dreamily with a far-off daze in her bronze eyes.
I stare back down at the heavy rock on my finger, my arm growing fatigue under its weight. The glint from the sun catches the cut diamond just right, casting blinding fractals in my eyes. I hiss from the abrupt intrusion of bright light to my vision.
Mrs. Samuel J. Dalton, I repeat to myself.  "I'm… I'm getting married," I state matter-of-factly as a catch my reflection in the floor-length mirror. "I'm… getting…" my voice becomes softer, more hoarse as I stand to look closer at myself. "I'm marrying Sam Dalton…" I can't seem to catch my breath as I watch my bridal party pop open a bottle of chilled champagne–and a bottle of sparkling grape juice. My voice grows louder, anxious. And terrified. "I'm marrying Sam Dalton… today!"
"Yes!" Jenny celebrates passing me a flute, "isn't this awesome?" She cheers with my glass before I watch the others lift their drinks in my honor. And everyone seems to freeze, staring at me to say something. 
Truth is… I have no words. Oh God, what is happening?
"It's… awesome," I choke out, hoping my bright smile will convince them. And convince me. I quickly down the entire glass.
“I’m so excited for you and Sam," Jenny continues to gloat.
"Me and Sam." I take a deep cleansing breath. Right. Eye on the prize, Brynn. Me and Sam. It's just you and Sam. It's just you… and…
“So how’re you holding up?" Marisol takes a seat on a couch, crossing her legs nonchalantly. "I remember I was an absolute wreck at my wedding. Any pre-wedding jitters?”
Jenny chuckles, waving her hand in the air as if the mention of nerves is preposterous. "Jitters? This gal has been dreaming about this day since she met the hottie."
Aditya snickers. He saunters up close to Jenny, wrapping his arms around her waist before taking a sip of his bubbly drink.
I glance around the room, everyone's attention stuck on me. Damnit, I know I'm the bride and today is about me.  But does everyone have to be staring at me like that, like I've given them a new hope in love, that love does conquer all, that Sam and I are their new favorite fairy tale? 
"Right, Brynn?" Jenny prompts when I stay silent, nodding her head.
“I… feel like I’ve never been more ready for anything." I take a deep cleansing breath before curling my lips into a bright grin.  "No jitters. No doubts.”
Jenny claps her hands, bouncing on the balls of her feet. “Then let’s get you to the altar–starting with your dress!”
The dress… my wedding dress… right…
------
Present
My cell phone rings, the chime breaking us both from the haze of the day.  I had put it on Do Not Disturb when we left the ceremony, save for a few numbers. I had a sneaking suspicion of who it was.
And I don't care.
He smirks, nodding over his shoulder. "You gonna get that?"
I step forward, sliding my hands up the firm planes of his chest until I intertwine my fingers behind his neck. I shake my head. "Nothing could be more important than being here with you, being us."
Slipping his arms around my waist, he tenderly presses his forehead to mine. He nuzzles his nose flesh to my skin, eliciting a soft moan from my lips. His mouth is a breath away from discovering my own… when my phone rings again.
He smirks, chuckling at the annoyance and slightly pulling away.
"Damnit," I mutter.
He kisses my temple. "Go ahead," he encourages, "it'll be like ripping off a band-aid." He teasingly spanks my ass.  "And then I'll kiss it and make it better."
“Promise?” I snicker, enjoying his hands on me, but reality quickly sets in. My eyes flutter close as my heart begins to pound like a drum in my chest. Just face the music… 
I walk over to grab my phone, peering at the screen.  I cinch my eyes closed again before swiping to answer the call.
"Hey–"
"Oh, thank God!" Jenny shouts through my speaker. "When you weren't answering, I just assumed the worst–"
"Jenny, I–"
"You guys just left," she nervously titters, "no goodbyes or anything. We went to your room, and–"
"Listen, I can't stay long. But everything is okay. Better, actually. And we're safe. We found another place to stay... You know? Get away from the chaos and the press." I chew on the inside of my mouth. "Can you… tell Moma that?"
"Yeah, of course, but Brynny… are you–"
"Jenny, stop. I promise, I will tell you everything when we get back from our trip. Okay?"  My best friend doesn't respond right away, and I'm not sure if my answers satisfy her genuine curiosity.
"I… I just want to make sure you're happy."
I look at the beautiful man sitting on the edge of the bed, resting his elbows on his knees. And suddenly, I am overwhelmed with feelings of joy as I see our future play out in front of me. With our kids. The business. With each other. And it all finally seems so perfectly clear.
"Jen," my eyes sting with pricks of tears, "I've never been happier."
------
Earlier that day…
"Brynn! Brynn!"
Startled, I spin around to see my favorite boys bounding around the foyer. "Whoa, whoa, you guys–" They crash into my arms as I bend down to catch them. I pepper kisses into their handsome curls, breathing in their scent that always feels like home. Gosh, my boys… 
Mickey stands tall with his arms behind his back. “Miss Naya told us to give you this!” He pulls out my bouquet of fresh roses, a bountiful collection of gorgeous creams and soft pale pinks. "Tada!"
My breath hitches, taken aback by how absolutely dreamy everything has turned out. This wedding… it… it's really happening. I take the bouquet, the sweet floral notes dancing around me before I turn to look at two pairs of glittering eyes. 
"It's almost as pretty as you, Brynn," Mason pushes his glasses up his nose.
"Just like a princess," Mickey chimes in.
“You two look pretty sharp yourselves,” I wink, adjusting Mason’s bowtie before fixing a wayward curl behind Mickey’s ear. "Do you have the rings like we practiced?"
The twins nod their heads in unison, pulling out the velvet boxes. "I promise we won't drop them," Mickey flashes a worried glance.
"Baby," I cup his freckled cheek, "you're going to do just fine." I place my hand on Mason's shoulder. "Both of you."
"Do we have to call you 'Mom' after you marry Dad?" Mason innocently questions.
Mom. The word hits like a brick in the pit of my stomach. I'm going to be someone's mother… not just one person, but I'm going to be a mother of two… 
And this is no surprise to me. Afterall, Mickey and Mason are the entire reason I even met this family. I've only known the Daltons for less than a year, and yet, I have been one of the only mother figures in their young lives. When I agreed to marry Sam, it was a package deal.
God, I love them so much. They have given me so much joy, even on days I didn't think I was going to make it. Between the incessant fights and the scandals, these two precious boys have seen me and loved me for me. They were my family long before… well, long before Sam and me…
I can't imagine living a day without a joke or a prank from those two… but being their actual mother? Making sure these two boys grow into successful men? 
"Well?" Mickey prompts for an answer to his brother's question.
I pull them both into a tight hug. "You two can call me whatever you want. The most important thing you need to know is I will always be here for you two."
"And Dad," Mickey teases, grinning.
"Right, Brynn?" Mason tugs on my elbow.
"Miss Schuyler," a deep, familiar voice resonates through the waiting area, tearing me from my conversation with the boys. "You are absolutely ravishing, my dear."
"Oh, Mr. Carter, you old dog," I blush as the tall, older gentleman dressed in a neatly pressed tux approaches us. I embrace him tightly as he gives me a chaste kiss on the cheek. 
"Well, let me take a look at you," he gleefully laughs, taking me by the hand. He twirls me in a circle, the skirt of my dress flouncing out like a dream.  Carter playfully whistles. "Enchanting," he grins, his gray eyes twinkling as his voice grows softer. "You remind me so much of my Evelyn on our wedding day." 
My eyes glisten at the mention of his wife. Unfortunately, she couldn't be with us today. Carter says that she has her 'good days and bad days,' I sense the latter outweighs the former, but still the way he speaks of his wife of forty years is precious, the envy of my dreams and future. 
I offer him a kind smile, trying to blink back the tears, but I can feel my face begin to flush. 
Suddenly, the gentle crescendo of music coming from the chapel notifies us that it's time for the ceremony to start. Carter and I give the boys one more glance, reminding them to walk slowly and to smile. Mickey and Mason hear their cue, and just like we rehearsed, they begin their trek to the altar.
And now... I'm next.
Carter begins to leave to sneak back into his seat, but I grab him by his arm.  I start to fidget with the boutonnière on his lapels. "Mr. Carter, I… I… did you maybe… I don't know–"
He takes my hands in his, calming my trembling fingers. "Miss Schuyler, take a deep breath."
I follow his directions, taking a deep gulp of air. "Jitters, right?" I exhale, fanning myself with my hand. "Perfectly normal, right?"
Carter kindly nods, guiding me slowly to the entrance. "When you step in there, find Mr. Dalton's eyes, and you stay focused on them. That's what helped on our wedding day."
"So you were nervous, too?" I glance down the aisle, noticing the twins are halfway to their spots. I quickly step back, my eyes fluttering closed. "And that helped you?"
He curls his lips endearingly. "It helped Evelyn."
"Really?" My eyes widen. "How?
He smirks as he recalls the memory. "We came from different families, you know? And because of that, she was terrified on what was supposed to be the best day of our lives. Seeking the approval of her parents, her family, even some of her friends… It was a lot of pressure on her."
"Gosh, that must've been hard."
"It was," he nods, "but, she said that on that day, she found my eyes… and they said everything that she needed to know."
My heart swoons at the thought. "She saw the love in your eyes?"
Carter coyly shakes his head.  He must see my confusion because he gives a deep, hearty laugh. "You are a treasure, Miss Schuyler, just like my Evelyn. A man that loves you will look at you as such, not with greed over what he's getting… but with fear because he sees how much he has to lose; he realizes he would be wrecked, completely devastated without you."
An overwhelming sense of calm washes over me. 
Find his eyes…
You are a treasure…
He sees how much he has to lose…
I squeeze Carter's hands, pulling him into one last embrace. "Thank you so much," my voice hitches. 
He nods affectionately. "You feel ready?" He helps me adjust my veil.
"Almost." I bite my lip, stifling a mischievous grin. "Mr. Carter, do you mind… walking me down the aisle?"
The most handsome smile sweeps across his face as he buttons the jacket of his tux. With his eyes glittering down at me, he offers me his arm. "It would be my honor."
------
Present
"Is everyone freaking out?" He chuckles, extending his arm for me to take his hand. 
I end the call, tossing my phone across the room.  "I… don't care," I snicker. "Probably." Slipping my fingers into his palm, he pulls me to his side, my body crashing into him.  We both tumble back onto the bed, our grunts turning into boisterous laughter, filling our room.
As our bellies begin to ache and we quiet down, I roll off of him, laying down next to him.  We stare at the ceiling, falling into a comfortable silence… that is until I notice him pointing at the textured surface above us.
"What are you doing?"
He chuckles. "When I was little, I used to dream of traveling the world. I tried using my grandpa's old world atlas to map out the perfect trip, and…" He titters, shaking his head with embarrassment, "I can't believe I'm telling you this."
"No," I roll onto my side, resting my hand on his chest. "I love it–I love this." I kiss his shoulder. "Keep going."
He rests his hand on mine, softly drawing circles with his thumb. "We had old popcorn ceilings," he chuckles, "kinda like this textured stuff, and so… I'd imagine it was my own world map. And at night, I would plan my–" he deepens his voice like the narrator of a movie trailer, "--international escape."
"Ooooo, show me, James Bond."
I start to giggle as he takes my hand in the air with his, his fingers curling around mine to extend my pointer finger. "Well, over here is us right now in Puerto Vallarta… and…" he moves our hands together, "up here is New York." He starts to blush, shrugging his shoulders.
"How about–" I guide our fingers to another spot, "--London?"
He chuckles. "I'll pack my knickers," he jokes in a British accent.
"And then Paris," I move our hands again.
"Oui oui, mon chéri," he jokes in his poor attempt to sound French, making me bust out into more titters. He guides us once more. "How about Venice?" He points to another area on the ceiling, his voice growing softer. "Or Athens? Or Bali? Hong Kong?"
I brush my nose against his stubbled cheek, whispering in his ear. "And then where?"
He turns towards me, the warmth of his chocolate gaze fluttering to my hungry lips as he places my hand back on his chest. "To the moon and stars?" The air around us begins to crackle, the electricity igniting our nerves as I feel my heart begin to race. I bite my lip, feeling a rosy swirl dance across my cheeks. "Anywhere. Somewhere else. With you."
I can feel his heartbeat thrum hard against my fingertips, the excitement feeding my desire for him.
I love him.
His large hand intimately caresses mine… but then he stops, looking down at my fingers. Feeling the abrupt disconnect, I follow his gaze and quickly notice he's fidgeting with something. 
My ring.
------
Earlier that day…
I thought I knew what I wanted for my wedding day, but in this very moment as Pachelbel's Canon in D romantically announces my arrival, I am overcome with so much emotion as I look around the room. This is everything I ever wanted: to be surrounded by love. My breath shutters as I try to blink away my tears. This… this is absolutely perfect. 
Carter pats my hand gripping tightly to his arm as he walks me graciously down the aisle.  "There he is," he whispers to me, "look at him."
Sam. He's as handsome as ever in his gray suit and petal pink tie. His eyes twinkle, roaming my body as I draw closer to the altar. He offers me that charming Dalton smile, and everything seems to fade away.
It's just you and me, baby… Finally… after everything you put me through– I mean--that we've gone through…
I can do this... I can do this... I can–
Without warning, Sam gradually turns towards his groomsmen. One of his old fraternity brother's has made some kind of comment, causing some of them to crack up. During my procession.
Sam seems to be responding to the joke or comment. He subtly leans over, but after a few seconds, some of the men snicker, covering their faces and Sam chuckles into his fist, feigning a coughing fit.
It's fine, I tell myself.
Getting himself under control, Sam looks back to me with a mischievous glint in his eye before winking at me.
It was just a joke– an inside joke perhaps. Probably to help with his own nerves. It--it's fine. Everything is fine.
Just… stay with me, Sam. Please stay. I need to see your–
The twins lean up against their dad as he rests his hands on their shoulders. Together, they all watch me with doting glances… that is until one of the velvet boxes accidentally falls out of Mickey’s pocket.  In a panic, he bends over to grab the small package, carelessly backing into his brother Mason, knocking off his glasses.
Giving me a crooked smile and shrugging his shoulders, Sam takes a knee to help the boys out, causing endearing chuckles from the audience.
Those two rascals…
I begin to admire my little mess of a family-to-be… until the small hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. My pulse, without explanation, begins to race as a bead of sweat courses down the slope of my back.
Something doesn't feel right.
I can't help, but feel… as crazy as it sounds, like there's another pair of eyes on me. Of course, I realize I have over two-hundred guests watching me as I finish my march down the aisle, but this? This isn't the same. This stare… it's different. It's piercing, and intimate. And I feel… seen. Exposed. Preyed.
Looking behind Sam's crouched physique, a pair of deep, chestnut eyes feast on my every move. But rather than being filled with adoration or even his typical lust, there's a hint of sadness in them, as if they're watching a funeral procession rather than a wedding.
And for the first time today, my heart flutters as a fire kindles in my belly.
I make it to the altar, Carter placing my petite hand in my groom's grasp. I can feel the desire in Sam's eyes wandering across my body.  He gives my fingers a squeeze, giving me another adoring wink… but I can't stop looking at him.
Focus, Brynn. Just focus…
Naya gives us a cordial smile before taking the microphone to begin. "Dearly beloved friends and family, we've gathered here today…"
It's no use. I can feel the bile rise in the back of my throat as the room begins to spin. Is it getting hot in here? Or are there just too many people?
As Naya continues, I look back to those haunting eyes, that look of betrayal, that look of devastation… and Carter's words begin to replay in my mind. 'A man that loves you will look at you… with fear because he sees how much he has to lose; he realizes he would be wrecked… without you."
Oh my God… I never noticed this before but… he loves me.
"... speak now," Naya bellows, "or... forever hold your–"
"Wait!" Fuck! What did I just do? The entire congregation starts to quietly murmur amongst one another. Sam clears his throat, his eyebrows furrowing as he adjusts his collar. "I–I'm sorry to interrupt, but… I just… I have a question, and I…" I sigh. "I can't do this–I can't get married unless… I need the answer."
A hush falls over the room, concerned looks are glued on me.
I should just shut up, and go along with this. Isn't that what I've been doing for the past several months anyway with the promise of a happily ever after? Does fairy tale magically happen after we say, 'I do?'
No. In my heart, I know this is the right thing to do. For me.
"Robin?" More whispers erupt behind me as Sam turns back to look at his best man, a pained confusion etching on his handsome features.  "Several weeks ago, we pretended to be the wait staff in a restaurant… to, uh… witness a date." Sam raises an eyebrow, looking between Robin and me. "I asked you a question at the beginning of the night. Do you… do you remember my question?"  
Robin coyly pushes his fists into his slacks, nodding his head. He exhales heavily, his nose rosy pink with unshed emotion.
My vision blurs as hot streams pour down my cheeks, but my attention doesn't leave Robin. "You… you answered, 'Sure. Sometimes…'"  A lump forms in my throat, my timbre growing hoarse. "Tell me, Robin… if I asked you that same question right now, what–what would your answer be?" I choke out a sob, wiping my face with the back of my hands.
He just stares at me. Lost. Dumbfounded. Embarrassed.
I know this wasn't exactly the most opportune time to talk about this, but I also knew this would be our last time to talk about it. Damnit, maybe I was wrong. Carter was wrong. My jitters and my awful gut feeling… wrong.
I look at Sam, his jaw ticking in anger. And he has every right to be. I've made a fool of him, of us. 
But I could've sworn I saw something…
"Sorry, everyone," Sam kindly addresses the audience, "we have a case of the wedding day jitters." He fakes a bright smile, the crowd tittering and cooing. At me. Like I'm a joke. Again. Sam takes my hand, but he refuses to even look at me now. 
Will he ever take me seriously? I... I don't want to get married like this.
Sam clears his throat, nodding to Naya to continue. "Let's try this again," she chuckles, "we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of–"
"I lied," Robin blurts out, inviting the chaos to continue amongst the guests.  He steps forward, pushing himself in front of Sam. "Brynn, you asked me if I ever thought about us–" Gasps and whispers crescendo in the room as Robin takes my hands into his. "And I told you… what I thought you wanted to hear. I mean, for Christ's sake, you swore you were in love with..." The corner of his mouth curls, his eyes bearing it all before me. "I knew better," he mumbles, falling into nervous titters, squeezing tightly to my fingers. "The truth is… Brynn Schuyler... Hell, of course, I think about us. All of the time. I dream of you as my bride. As my wife. As the mother to my children… I've never stopped thinking about us since the moment I first met you–" 
Screams erupt as family members and friends jump to their feet. Naya attempts to holler through her microphone to restore order, but it's too late. Our guests that have come to attend a beautiful, romantic wedding have turned into an ugly, angry mob.
I get lost in the shuffle, unable to recognize anyone around me. My name is being screamed in several directions by several different voices, but it's no use. Terrified, I glance around, looking for a way to safety as everything crumbles around me.
Suddenly, a large hand grabs mine, pulling me through the vocal crowd. As we finally make it to the back of the sanctuary, his lips graze my ear. "Do you trust me?"
A rush of exhilaration floods my veins as my natural smile returns. Are you kidding me? With all my heart.
I nod.
"Don't look back, baby," he chuckles, tucking my arm under his. "Run!"
------
Present
"Do you mind, Miss Schuyler?" He smirks, grabbing my engagement ring on my hand.
I roll my lips, trying to hide my smile as I tilt my head side-to-side. "Not at all, Mr. Flores. Please."
Robin slips the jewelry off of my finger before pressing his lips to my now bare knuckle. It was so simple, yet the gesture so intimate; I was finally free. 
This man…
Pulling me into his arms, he tosses the ring over his shoulder, an abrupt clink hitting the wall. With his handsome crooked smile, he leans towards me. "Don't worry," he chuckles, "I made him buy the insurance."
"Robin!" I squeal before our mouths meet in a tender kiss.
"What?" He pulls back, cupping my cheek. "I had a feeling."
"A feeling?" I snicker, raising an eyebrow. "That it wasn't going to work out?"
"Ehh, more .." He brushes his thumb across my lips, a serious expression growing across his face. "That you were the one. For me."
~🖤~
Thank you so much for your support! Every like, comment and reblog means the world to me! 🖤
~🖤~
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noesapphic · 8 months
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Y'all remember when someone compared Mr. Sinclaire saving the MC from being raped (!!!!!!) to Sam Failton saying they'd kill anybody who looked at his mistress? Cause I sure do
36 notes · View notes
choices-binglebonkus · 7 months
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If there’s one positive thing to come from The Dalton Affair, it’s that it’ll have a steady supply of hilarious fuckups when it comes to F!Sam’s gender, I.e. the twins continuously calling her “dad” and no one else in the story reacting to it.
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a-cloud-for-dreams · 6 months
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Me at all the pro-cheating/bland smut books PB has written
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zoeywades-spouse · 2 years
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The guests in Sam’s bachelor/bachelorette party and MC’s bachelorette party show just how truly dislikable these two are.
Sam: their estranged brother, some random guy who isn’t even a friend, and their ex who they cheated on and left at the altar
MC: her “best friend” who has shown to never actually be a friend, her coworker who hooked up with said best friend on MC’s desk, and some random woman MC isn’t friends with
Sam and MC are so obsessed with each other that they don’t make time to build meaningful friendships with other people. They have no real friends and rely on people who they have hurt and have been hurt by in return
141 notes · View notes
lancelotsimp · 2 years
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Manifesting that MC can leave Sam Dalton at the altar for Robin or Jordon, like AME MC was able to leave their LI for Slater or Bianca.
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82 notes · View notes
peonierose · 10 months
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Once (4/5)
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**This story takes place before it was revealed that Addison would come back/is alive **
Book: The Nanny Affair & Open Heart Crossover / AU
Characters involved: Sam Dalton (M!MC), Ethan Ramsey (M!MC) and Robin Flores (M!MC)
Part IV of V / Miniseries
Words: 4,000+
Rating: Mature
TW: Cancer, character death, mental illness
Summary: It’s the day of Addis funeral. Thankfully Sam isn’t alone he has his friends and family to be there for him.
A/N: This is in honor of my friend Mira who died from ovarian cancer. May you rest in peace 💜
A/N part 2: @annieruok94 Thank you for proofreading 💚
Music Inspiration: You can check out some songs I posted for @moodmusicmonday Here’s a complete list for all the songs of all chapters 🥰
Part IV
The evening before Addie's funeral started with heavy rain, pelting mercilessly on the windows of our apartment in New York.
Then I correct myself. It's now my apartment, not ours, since Addie…is gone. I lean my head against the cold glass and just breathe out through my nose.
I can hear thunder rumbling in the distance as lightning illuminates the otherwise dark room with white and purple light.
I lift my head and look up.
With my hand in my pocket, I stared outside at the skyscrapers rising high in the air. City lights glow from down below.
I saw my reflection staring back at me in the glass of the window. Looking tired and forlorn. I feel like a piece of me died with Addie. We might’ve had our ups and downs but I love her. No matter what happened.
God, I miss her so damn much.
I look down at the glass of scotch I poured earlier. Losing count of how many drinks I’ve had tonight. Not giving two fucks if I’m hungover the next day. At least it’ll numb my pain for a little while.
I’m swirling the scotch in my hands that I poured myself a while ago. The ice cubes have already melted inside. Watering down the taste of the scotch.
I take a sip, as it smoothly runs down my throat burning its way down.
“Getting shit-faced. Is that how you’re spending your days now, Sam?“
I hear an angry voice. That voice belongs to my non-biological brother Robin. A pain-in-the-ass if you ask me.
Unbothered by his presence I take another sip and keep staring outside.
He comes to a stop next to me. I don’t even look at him. Just continue looking outside. Not seeing anything.
“Anybody home?“ He taunts me.
I glance at him out of the corner of my eye.
“What do you want?“ I ask not caring how I sound.
“Oh, so he speaks? That’s nice,“ he says sarcastically.
I roll my eyes at that. Robin has never been very subtle. I always admired that about him in a way. He’s passionate and doesn’t hold back when it comes to the people he loves.
“Again what do you want?“ I just want him gone and to be left alone. So that I can finish my drink in peace.
That’s when my drink is yanked out of my hand.
“The hell, Rob?“ I glare at him. My voice is dangerously low. But he either ignores that or doesn’t care. I’d say it’s a bit of both.
“What is wrong with you? Addi died and all you seem to care about is getting shit-faced?“ He almost shouts at me. His fists clenched at his sides, anger rolling off of him in waves.
“Do I look drunk to you? No? Then kindly fuck off.“
I’m holding out my hand for him to pass me my glass.
He just scoffs.
“You know what? No. I’m not just going to leave you here. So that you can wallow in misery,“ he pauses for a second, before continuing.
I raise my eyebrows at him. Not care why he’s here. I love him, but right now? I want to get drunk. Not having a heart-to-heart.
Robin continues unperturbed.
“As for why I’m here. Mom called me. Since you don’t know what a phone is these days and how it works. She asked me to check in on you. You ghosted everyone. Our parents are worried. So are Mickey and Mason. Remember? Your kids? Whose mom died?“ He punches the bridge of his nose and breathes out a deep sigh.
My breath hitches at the mention of my boys. But I don't want to talk to Robin, because once I start? I won’t be able to finish. Because I know I’ll break down and weep like a little baby.
So I school my features.
“Our parents? You mean my parents? We're not blood-related, Robin.“
I know that was a low blow. But I just want him gone. If there is no other way than hurting him so that he leaves? So be it.
He inhales sharply at my words. But then a look of understanding and softness enters his espresso-colored eyes.
“I know what you’re trying to do, Sam. You’re trying to hurt me with words so that I’ll leave. Nice try,“ he just looks at me.
“Who says I was lying?“ I raise an eyebrow and bite my inner cheek.
“Really? What would Addi say if she could see you now? Drinking? Being an ass? Pushing family away? That’s not you Sam!“ He sighs.
“I’m not in the mood for a fight.“
I say in response.
He shakes his head at me.
“Color me surprised. I thought for sure, that’s where you were going with your little insults. But what do I know? I’m your not-brother who still gives a damn about you. Even though you act like a complete asshole right now,“ he says.
“Just because I don’t react the way you want me to, doesn’t mean you can just come in here and belittle me. I love Addi. Not one minute goes by that I don’t miss her. The hardest part was to know she won’t make it. Do you know what that’s like?“
My voice is rising. And Robin sighs in turn.
“No, I don’t know. But don’t shut us out, Sam. We all love and care about you and the twins. Let us help. Let us carry some of the burden for you. You’re not alone,“ he places a gentle hand on my shoulder. I don’t instantly shake it off.
Seeming to consider his words carefully.
“Look, Sam. Nobody is trying to make this harder on you than it already is. We’re all just trying to process this and find a way to move on. I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you. Everything you’ve been going through since Addi was diagnosed with cancer. We all loved Addi. And now she’s…gone,“ he sighs at the last word.
I let my head fall overcome with suppressed emotions.
“I was trying to numb the pain. That’s why I was drinking. I was halfway there when you barged in.“
I chuckle but it sounds bitter and sad.
“You could’ve at least offered me a drink. No one should drink alone. Come on.“
Robin attempts a smile, that’s more of a half-smirk. But a small smile creeps into the corner of my mouth and stays there.
He pats my back and I look at my brother. Who is a friend whom I’ve been a dick to, just because I needed to lash out at someone.
Because I’m angry, sad, frustrated and just so fucking tired. As if all these months of pain are pouring out on me. Like heavy rain.
This little cloud of swirling emotions is spinning through me and I don’t know what to do. Maybe he’s right. Maybe I should let my family help and carry some of the burden.
I sigh again. So much for thinking that drinking was a good start.
Maybe a vacation or going someplace that doesn’t remind me of Addi would be better instead.
Just to relax and spend time with my boys who are grieving but don’t understand what the fuck is happening because they’re too young.
As Robin and I sit down he looks at me, as if he knows exactly what’s going on inside my head.
“Let’s get drunk,“ he waggled his eyebrows and moved into the living room to find the bottle of scotch I opened earlier. Or was it yesterday? I laugh silently. Not even knowing where yesterday went.
“Aren’t we a little too old for hangovers?“
“Speak for yourself, old man! I don’t have hangovers,“ he gets himself a glass from the cabinet and pours each of us a drink. I watch as the amber-colored liquid fills our glasses.
Clinking our glasses together. We both take a sip.
“This is some good stuff.“ Robin whistles.
I shrug.
“Did you really expect me to get drunk on some cheap liquor? Who do you take me for?“
“God you’re such a snob. But at least I know where to find the good stuff if I ever need a stiff drink,“ he smiles to himself.
We drink in silence. Consumed by our private thoughts.
Robin clears his throat. I look up. He wets his lips looking away. He’s nervous about something.
“Just say it.“
“I heard Addis' parents are coming to the funeral. You never really talk about them. Is there bad blood between you guys?“
He almost whispers the question, as if he’s afraid of how I would take the question.
I take another gulp before answering.
“Not bad blood in and of itself. We just never got along, that’s all.“
Not willing to say more. Robin doesn’t seem convinced.
“There’s got to be more to the story,“ he pushes.
I put my glass on the table immediately, missing its weight in my hands. I lean back in the chair.
“There’s not much to tell. Ever since Addie introduced us there’s been tension. Why? I don’t know. I‘d guess they thought I wasn’t good enough for their daughter.“
“What? You? Not good enough for their daughter? What gives?“ He asked.
“All I know is they come from old money and they probably had someone else in mind for Addie. But she went and married me. Which pissed them off. We never had a peaceful dinner together. One that didn’t end in an argument. They never visited us or gave a damn about Addie. And when Mickey and Mason were born…“
Thinking back to that day. Holding them both in my arms. Those tiny and fragile little humans. My heart is swelling with love.
I knew then and there that I would always love them. Never be their cause for doubt. Yes, I might be strict sometimes. But only because I love them and don’t want to lose them. Like I lost Addi. I take another sip from my drink.
Those boys? They are the most precious gift of all time.
Seeing their smiles every day and being excited about those god-awful experiments? Addie always encouraged them in that regard. I’m smiling to myself lost in thought.
I haven’t noticed the silence that was stretching for far too long.
When Robin’s voice brought me back.
“What’s that smile for?“ He points in my direction with his glass.
“I was thinking of the day when Mickey and Mason were born. And how happy I felt while I was holding them. Being scared of what to do, you know? Then they opened their eyes and just looked at me. It was love at first sight. Holding your child in your arms, it’s incomparable,“ smiling fondly at those memories.
“I’ll take your word for it brother,“ he sips from his drink while glancing down at his watch. He notices my stare.
“Hot date?“ I ask curiously.
He almost chokes on his sip.
“Yeah, right.“
I smirk.
“Don’t tell me you’re losing your touch?“
“No. I’m just busy.“ That is all he says.
I arch an eyebrow at that explanation.
“Right. Of course.“
He sighs loudly.
“Don’t be smug, okay?“
I hold up my hands, smiling.
“I’m just looking for something different. So far I haven’t found it,“ he looks into his glass as if it was holding all the answers.
He gets up from his seat and puts down the glass.
“I should be going. I am busy.“
It looks like he wants to say more. Opening and closing his mouth.
He continues in a soft voice. One I don’t hear often.
“Don’t push the people who care about you away. You don’t have to go through it alone. We’re all here for you. Whatever you need. Just don’t shut us out. Please. The twins can’t lose another person. Neither can we. We love you Sam,“ he smiles softly.
About to leave, when I get up and give him a tight hug.
He didn't expect it and stood still for a moment. Then he relaxes and returns the hug.
“Thank you.“ I whisper.
“I’m sorry about earlier…You are my brother, even if not by blood. Family don’t end with blood.“
He takes a step back and just stares at me.
“Are you quoting Bobby Singer from Supernatural?“ he asks, grinning at me.
I smack him on the arm.
“Don’t make me feel weird about this.“ I say.
He throws his head back and laughs out loud.
“Oh my god. Samuel Alexander Dalton. You watch Supernatural?“
I scoff embarrassed.
“So what? A lot of people do. There’s no shame in that. And why are you giving me shit for that? I know Addie got you hooked on it too,“ I flushed beet red.
“What are you talking about?“ He’s trying to deflect the question.
“What am I talking about? When you both had the flu and were sick for almost a week you sat down and watched seasons 1 through 11. Nobody was allowed to talk or say anything about Sam or Dean. Also, Addie told me that you made some friends online and discussed the episodes with others.“
His cheeks are flaming red and he’s trying to flee.
“Okay, I admit it. I love the show. It has great dialogue and Dean and Sam are hilarious. Happy?“
He throws up his hands in the air and asks impatiently.
“Very.“ I smile.
He rolls his eyes at that.
“Oh and Rob?“ I can’t help saying one last thing, as he’s waiting for the elevator to take him downstairs.
“Yeah?“ He turns around expectantly.
I laugh delightedly.
“SupernaturalFan_67? Does that name sound familiar to you?“ I ask jokingly.
“How…do…you…When…What?“ He stammers.
Tapping his foot impatiently on the marble floor as he’s waiting for the elevator.
He’s clicking the elevator button several times for good measure.
“You left your laptop open when you visited that one time, and Addi saw it and showed it to me. We just couldn’t resist.“
I bite my lip to not burst out laughing when I see the dirty look he gives me.
“That’s why those weird comments appeared. You two made those,“ he points an accusing finger at me.
He sighs.
”I thought I was being hacked. Damn, you’re such a dick, Sam,“ he says as he gets into the elevator.
I wink at him and he rolls his eyes but smiles.
He’s mumbling something under his breath which makes me laugh even harder.
Even after the doors close I’m still laughing.
When I sit down again to enjoy the rest of my remaining drink. I see an old record peeking out from the table.
When I lean forward to see which one it is. I see it’s one of Addie's favorites.
Linda Ronstadt - Long, Long time.
Ah. That woman? Such a gifted singer. We’ve always loved to dance to her songs. Whenever we had some alone time.
With some new vigor, I put the record on and the first tunes of the song play out.
»Love will abide«
»Take things in stride«
»Sounds like good advice«
»But there's no one at my side«
»And time washes clean love's wounds unseen«
»That's what someone told me«
»But I don't know what it means«
»'Cause I've done everything I know«
»To try and make you mine«
»And I think I'm gonna love you«
»For a long long time«
»Caught in my fears«
»Blinking back the tears«
»I can't say you hurt me«
»When you never let me near«
»And I never drew one response from you«
»All the while you fell all over girls you never knew«
»'Cause I've done everything I know«
»To try and make you mine«
»And I think it's gonna hurt me«
»For a long long time«
»Wait for the day you'll go away«
»Knowing that you warned me«
»Of the price, I'd have to pay«
»And life's full of flaws«
»Who knows the cause?«
»Living in the memory of a love that never was«
»'Cause I've done everything I know«
»To try and change your mind«
»And I think I'm gonna miss you«
»For a long long time«
Letting the music and lyrics wash over me. Healing some of the fissures that have opened up. Somehow I feel closer to her with every passing note.
Making me smile even though Addie’s no longer here. But her memory will always stay in my heart, and in the crinkle around my eyes.
Telling the story of how we shared a bond and a love for each other that can’t just be broken. The memories we made? They will never fade.
I fell asleep to the sounds of Linda’s song - Long, Long time.
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The Next Day��
The funeral happened in a blur. I don’t even know how. It felt as if I was wading through water.
Not seeing anyone or noticing anything. The boys are with my parents. I asked them if they could watch them.
I don’t want them to be exposed to any gossip. There are some at any funeral.
At least at Addis's funeral I can try and control the narrative a little.
They’re going through enough, they don’t need to hear people talk shit about Addie.
I move through the crowd in the living room and smile politely as I make my way toward the table with drinks.
“I’m not a big fan of people either. I hate making small talk. It’s completely unnecessary. Either say what you have to say or shut up.“
A deep voice rumbles next to me, as I’m trying to pick my poison from the array of alcohol.
I turn around slightly, and my eyes widen in shock at seeing Dr. Ramsey standing next to me.
In an all-black tuxedo, a golden square pocket peaking out.
I gape like a fish with my mouth hanging open.
“Surprised to see me? Yeah me too.“
Ethan replies, already nursing a drink. Though when I look down it looks just like plain water.
I look up and raise a questioning eyebrow.
“Dr. Ramsey I haven’t expected to see you. Least of all at my wife’s funeral.“
I’m still staring at him like I’m seeing him for the first time.
He winces at that.
“Just call me Ethan.“
I exhale.
“Alright, Ethan. But then you should call me Sam. Mr. Dalton sounds…“
A corner of his mouth lifts into a smirk.
“Old?“
Now it’s my turn to wince.
“I wouldn’t go that far. Though I feel old today.“ My shoulders droop.
He pats my shoulder encouragingly.
“I know what you mean.“
I nod in thanks.
“Thank you for coming. We’re literal strangers, apart from seeing each other at the hospital that one time….I….mean you didn’t have to come out here. But I appreciate it nonetheless.“ I smile at him.
He nods in the direction of the library. Which is closed off to visitors. Family only.
“Of course. So should we escape the crowd? I think I was promised a drink. Shall we?“ He asked me.
I slowly nod in agreement and lead the way to my family's study.
Once inside I softly close the door. I don’t want anyone overhearing a private conversation. And then later gossiping about it. I’ve had enough of those already.
What is it with certain people who find joy in other people’s misery? I will never understand that.
“They’re worse than the interns.“ Ethan comments.
I look at him in confusion.
He smiles.
“You were mumbling about people gossiping,“ he says.
I close my eyes for a brief second and draw in a long breath. Letting my head fall on the leather couch and just letting the cold fabric cool down the fire in my blood.
“I guess I’m just wondering about how it can bring people joy to gossip. At a funeral, no less. We’re here to mourn Addi and say goodbye. Not to spread rumors and talk bad behind someone’s back, who can’t even defend herself anymore.“
Getting frustrated and angry, I’m trying to rain my emotions in, since I don’t want to explode. Then people would have something to talk about.
I shudder. I don’t even want to think about that. The reactions about my outburst would be awful. My parents would never shut up about it.
Ethan’s voice brings me back to the here and now.
“You know, people will always talk. No matter what you do. I work at a hospital, where gossip spreads like wildfire. Trust me. I’m still amazed I haven’t gone and thrown someone out the window.“
He grunts as he leans into another one of the leather armchairs. Unbuttoning the first few buttons of his shirt.
I laughed for the first time today, and I’ve got to admit it feels freeing. Not being judged for smiling or laughing, because it’s “inappropriate“. Fuck them.
Addi wouldn’t mind if I laughed today. She’d welcome it.
She’d say ”If someone laughed at some lame joke I made? Yeah, I’d call that a win. Funerals shouldn’t feel like a goodbye. They should feel like a celebration of the person who’s now in a better place.“
She’d be right. So screw them. How do they know how I feel? I grin.
I get up and turn to the glass cabinet in front of me. I get two glasses out and pour each of us a drink.
Ethan takes a sip while I watch his reaction.
“Not bad Dalton. Not bad,“ he takes another sip, this time a bigger one.
“Not bad? I’d hope this was better than not bad. But I’ll take it.“
We sit in silence. But it’s not uncomfortable. Quite the opposite. I lean my head back again and just close my eyes. My glass dangles from my fingers.
Ethan clears his throat slightly.
“So I take it from us drinking at…“
I hear the rustling of fabric, and then “…11 in the morning that we both needed a hit?“
I open my eyes and put my glass down.
“You can say that again. This whole day has been a nightmare.“
I rub my eyes.
“Care to elaborate?“ he asks.
“I don’t know where to start…“ I drift off.
He shrugs his shoulders.
“At the beginning would be good.“ I laugh despite myself.
“Yeah I guess so.“
I draw in a breath, readying myself.
“Addi was diagnosed with ovarian cancer a few months back. I still don’t understand how it could’ve gotten to stage 4 without us not noticing anything. It didn’t make any sense. That’s when the fighting started. She…just wasn’t taking care of herself. I tried cutting back at work. So that I could be there for her and the kids, but all it did was make her angrier. She said she doesn’t need a babysitter. She stopped listening to her doctors. She didn’t spend as much time with the kids anymore. I’m not trying to paint her as a bad mom or person. It’s just…“ I trail off.
“You were worried about her,“ he says matter of factly.
“Yeah. Of course, I was.“
I take another sip, the burning sensation a welcoming feeling.
“What about her parents? I didn’t see them.“ He inquires.
“They weren’t really on speaking terms. They barely visited. Mickey and Mason didn’t like spending much time with them. One time Mason said how they always looked down on them. I mean they’re little kids for god's sake.
He nods in understanding. He’s about to say something, when we both hear the door opening and Robin appears in the doorframe. Looking from me to Ethan he just sighs, shakes his head, closes the door, and takes a seat.
“So what are we drinking to today, Sam?“ He asks no one in particular. And then looks in Ethan's direction.
“You’re new,“ he eyes him suspiciously.
“Nice to meet you too. And I was new 36 years ago. Thank you.“ Ethan mutters sarcastically.
Robin looks at me.
“Where did you find him? Is he your new drinking buddy? I thought that was my job?“ He pouts a little. Which makes him look ridiculous.
“I didn’t find him. He’s a doctor at Edenbrook hospital in Boston,“ I reply to his question.
“You still haven’t answered my question,“ he replies.
Ethan and I share a look. He points between us.
“What’s that look for?“ He asks.
“Ethan was there the day Addi died,“ I explained slowly to Robin.
I can see a mix of emotions in Robin's eyes. With a heavy sigh, he plops himself onto the leather sofa. Crossing his legs.
“I guess that warrants an excuse for a drink, pour me one would you?“ Robin asks and I can’t resist teasing a little bit.
“What am I your servant?“ I say.
Robin laughs at me and says.
“You’d make a nice one,“ and holds his hand out for a drink, but I’ll humor him for today. I get up and get him a drink.
We all hang onto our own thoughts and drink late into the night in my family's study.
I’m glad I have my brother by my side and my new friend or as Robin called him “my drinking buddy“.
I smile as we keep talking and exchanging jabs at each other‘s expense. All in good fun of course.
Life doesn’t seem so bad when you have friends and you’ve won a new drinking buddy over.
The smile is still in place as we go home. I ask Robin and Ethan if they want to stay at my parent's place. There are enough rooms to go around.
They both agree and we all head upstairs to catch some sleep.
Because tomorrow is a fresh start into a better day, with my family by my side.
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cariantha · 1 year
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Is it silly that I'm hoping this will be a TNA baby spin-off?🙏🏼
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@nannyforhire Any thoughts?
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dwiankus · 7 months
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Wtf. They are the same person, i swear
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gross
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vengefclqueen · 2 years
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The Nanny Affair is literally the dumbest fucking book I swear to God.
Why are we setting up a date between Sam and the ex wife?
Why are we still friends with Jenny?
Why are we in a relationship with Sam still?
Why does the MC have no respect for themself?
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Sent by @cadybear420
‘I am 100% sure that if Sam wasn't GOC, they'd have had MC become pregnant right in the very first book. And Jenny getting pregnant by Aditya honestly only makes me even more sure of that theory. In fact, since TNA is already cliche YA trope hell, I'm very convinced that PB only made Jenny and Aditya have an affair for the sole purpose of getting that accidental pregnancy trope into the story as well. After all, it's clearly pretty lazily inserted into the story with how absolutely useless and insignificant it is– like, you could remove it and lose nothing important about the main story. It's literally just a proxy affair for the accidental pregnancy trope.’
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MOD’S PERSONAL OPINIONS!
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