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runningincircl3s · 10 days ago

Text

Who Are You?

Kickboxer!Noah x Reader

Chapter Six

chapter warnings: noah's across the world but it's still the same time for reader? (time zones just don't seem to exist in this universe i guess?) a little nsfw at the end...? reader is so oblivious lmao, i think that's it?

masterlist ♡

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

"I'll miss you."

You watched him walk away and the second the elevator doors slid shut and Noah was out of sight, you let go of a breath you didn’t even know you had been holding. Holy fucking shit.

You could still feel the press of his lips on your hand as you stood frozen still, staring at the empty space where he had been standing just seconds ago. His scent still lingered in the air even after he’d gone, something fresh and unintentionally sexy that you were beginning to obsess over.

After a moment, after you’d tried your best to calm down, you turned to your door.

Your keys jingled as you fumbled with them- clearly you weren’t as composed as you thought, your cheeks were still hot, your hands were shaking a little from the adrenaline of it all as you still tried to process the entire night. His hand in yours… the way his thumb had traced over your skin… the kiss to the back of your hand. You still weren’t sure how your knees didn’t give out beneath you.

“Fuck, get it together.” You mumbled under your breath, managing to jam the key into the lock, twisting it and opening the door. You knew you were going to be bombarded with questions, but it was kinda your fault for asking your friends to stay until you got home- but that was before you knew things were actually fine between you and Noah.

But you didn’t even get two steps in before…

“NO CALLS, NOT TEXTS?? WHERE THE FUCK HAVE YOU BEEN?!”

You practically jumped out of your skin as Kylie sprinted towards the door, her eyes wide with the fury of a worried best friend who had clearly been pacing the apartment for hours. James wasn’t far behind her, as always.

“Jesus, can you let me shut the door first?” You chuckled, holding your hands up, still halfway through the door, your gym bag slung over your shoulder.

“So I’m guessing he wasn’t mad at you if you've just come home holding hands? C’mon, what happened? Where did you go? What did you do?” James grinned, leaning against the kitchen counter.

You opened your mouth, but the words didn’t come. Instead, a nervous laugh escaped, and you pressed a hand to your flushed face as you finally kicked off your shoes and stepped all the way inside.

“I’m so glad you two didn’t let me cancel my gym membership.” You confessed, letting your bag drop to the floor by the door, shrugging your hoodie off next as you were feeling a little too hot…

“We figured,” James shot back, flopping down onto the couch, “So what happened? Spill.”

“Was he mad at you like you thought?” Kylie chimed in, eyes focused on you as you grabbed a glass of water to steady your nerves.

You busied yourself with the glass, avoiding their eyes for a little longer than necessary.

“…It’s a long story.”

“Girl, we’ve got all night!” James called from the couch.

You leaned back against the counter, glass cool in your palm, your heart still racing… You looked at the back of your hand, the spot where Noah’s lips had been just minutes ago, before he pulled away with that stupid little smirk that made your stomach somersault, and you couldn’t help but smile.

“C’mon,” Kylie urged softly, crossing her arms. “Don’t make me beg. You’re standing here grinning like that and won’t tell us why!”

“Yeah, I’ve never seen you smile like this before…” James chimed in from the couch, “It’s a little scary.”

You groaned into your glass, hiding your face behind it for a second. But it was no use. They already knew. They saw it the second you walked in.

“Fine…” You finally set the glass down with a soft clink and pushed your hair back from your face, cheeks still a little pink. “We went for food.”

“Food?” James gasped, his eyes wide, “As in dinner? A DATE?!”

You nodded, biting your bottom lip to keep from smiling too hard.

“Yeah… kinda... he noticed I was hungry and offered to take me out after class. He said it didn’t have to be a date, but it really felt like one.”

“And?!” Kylie grinned.

“And… it was nice.” You shrugged, trying and ultimately failing to play it cool as you crossed your arms.

“Stop being so vague and just tell us if he kissed you!” James groaned through a smile.

Your shook your head a little.

“No… he didn’t…” You trailed off, a breathless little laugh slipping out, “But-”

“But?” Kylie’s eyes widened, stepping in closer, “But what?”

You couldn’t stop the grin now if you tried.

“He kissed my hand.” You confessed, your voice coming out a little giddy.

James was stunned into silence as he just blinked, and Kylie’s jaw dropped.

“…You’re telling me the hot gym guy kissed your hand, like fucking prince charming, and you’re standing here telling me it was just nice?” James cried, “NICE?!”

You let out an actual laugh, cheeks aching from smiling now as you finally crossed your apartment, flopping down beside him on the couch.

“Well, it was more than nice,” you admitted, a little quieter now, remembering how his lips had lingered against your skin, how his eyes stayed locked on yours the whole time, “It was… fuck, it was really good, okay? He made me nervous as hell, but I didn’t want it to end.”

Kylie dropped down on the couch beside you, practically vibrating with excitement.

“Why didn’t you invite him in?” She asked, “We would’ve left if-”

“I know, and I tried,” you confessed with a helpless little smile, “But he said he had a flight to catch.”

“And he still went out for food with you first?!” Kylie gasped, her hand smacked your arm playfully. “Babe… he's in love with you!”

You playfully rolled your eyes with a sigh, trying to hide the way your stomach flipped.

“It wasn’t like that-”

“Oh, it is like that.” James cut in with a big grin, “So, since I can already hear the wedding bells… when do we get to meet him properly?”

"When you learn to behave."

…

It wasn’t far off midnight when your friends finally left. Kylie hugged you tight on the way out, practically bouncing as she reminded you,

“We’ll be back tomorrow, don’t forget! Rockfest tickets go live at midday.”

“Yeah, it’s gonna be a long day,” James chimed in, already halfway down the hall. “We’ve got outfits to plan, hotels to book, then we finally get to look at the lineup!”

Ah yes, the annual Rockfest ticket day. The three of you would get together to plan it all, and finally let yourselves see the setlist after. One year, there were hardly any band names you knew, but that only meant you found new bands and artists to listen to, and it was possibly the most fun year of them all.

You smiled, nodding and waving them goodbye, but the second the door clicked shut behind them, the whole place felt a little empty, and too quiet. All you could hear was the city traffic outside your window, the slight hum of your fridge and the quiet tick of the clock.

You exhaled, leaning back against the door, finally letting the day catch up with you.

You ached a little from training, you had been silently struggling to sit ever since you fell on the mats, your cheeks hurt from how much your friends made you laugh, and your heart had never felt so full.

You pushed off the door, making your way through the apartment, dimming the lights as you went, changing into an oversized shirt to sleep in, taking off your jewellery, washing your face, all the small things that usually helped wind you down and get ready for bed- but tonight, your brain wasn’t settling down.

You got into bed, crawling under the covers, curling onto your side and shutting your eyes.

After a while, you still couldn’t sleep, so you turned again, laying on your front. Then your back. Then back to your side. Then you kicked the covers off. Then you tried laying on your back again. Then your side-

Nothing was working. You couldn’t sleep.

You turned back onto your back again with a huff, and stared up at your ceiling.

You never usually had an issue falling asleep, but there was something different about tonight. You couldn’t get him off your mind. Every time you shut your eyes, you saw his face, you could still feel his lips on your skin, you could still hear the softness of his voice- it wasn’t like you to obsess over a guy like this, but Noah wasn’t like anyone you had ever met before.

Finally, you gave in. You reached for your phone, hesitating as you found his contact… was this too much? Would he even see it?

No. Screw it.

You: hey, thanks again for tonight. I don’t know how you do it but I haven't felt this comfortable with anyone in a long time. I owe you when you’re back :)

Only moments after you sent the texts, your arm already reaching put your phone back down- it buzzed.

Noah: You’re still awake?

Noah: I was just about to text you. I had a great time today, and I’m glad you came to class. You don’t owe me anything btw, I did it because I wanted to, I care about you.

Noah: They'll be calling us to board soon, get some sleep okay? I'll text you when I land.

Your cheeks burned, a giddy little smile tugging at your lips like some ridiculous love sick idiot.

But you didn’t even care.

You: But I can't sleep. I can’t stop thinking about you...

Noah: I can’t stop thinking about you either.

Noah: You should try though… I wish I was there, I'd help you fall asleep.

Your tummy was suddenly full of butterflies, you grinned into the pillow, trying your hardest not to squeal.

You: I wish you were here too, I keep tossing and turning but I just can't sleep :(

It only took a few seconds for his reply.

Noah: If i was there you wouldn’t be able to toss or turn

Noah: I'd have you tucked under my arm where you belong

Holy fucking shit.

You exhaled, cheeks warming, sinking deeper into the sheets as your heart felt like you had just ran a mile. You tried to stay calm, you tried to stay composed, but you were only one more message away from rolling around your bed, giggling and kicking your feet.

Noah: Go to sleep

You: but i wanna talk to you!

Noah: We’ll talk when you wake up

Noah: You need to get some sleep.

You: okay fine… goodnight noah <3

You wondered whether the heart was too much... but he had literally just told you he wished he was there in your bed with you. You worried a little when his typing bubble kept appearing and disappearing, but then he finally replied.

Noah: Goodnight sweet girl. Sleep well for me

Oh, he's going to be the death of you.

...

You woke up the next morning to warm sunlight beaming through your bedroom window, and you stretched your limbs with a soft sigh. You had dreamt of Noah, which didn't come as a surprise, it also explained why you woke up with a smile on your face.

You looked over at the clock on your wall, it had just gone 11am- surely Noah had landed by now?

You reached for your phone, still blinking the sleep out of your eyes as you tried to read through notifications- most of which you didn't care about- until you found his.

Noah: Made it to France.

Fuck, at 6am?

Noah: I remember you told me you don't work on Wednesdays so you better sleep in, you need it. I'm gonna be busy for the couple days I'm here, I promise I'll text whenever I can but I’ll be thinking about you. Don’t miss me too much 😏

It was stupid how your heart swelled over that simple little teasing line at the end.

You stared at the message for a moment, rereading it at least three times through the sleepy haze clinging to your brain, trying to figure out if this was real or you were still dreaming.

The image popped into your head so easily: Noah, probably exhausted after hours of travel, standing in some busy airport surrounded by strangers. But he still took the time to text you, and not just to let you know he got there safe.

You: glad you landed safe, i hope you’re not too tired.

You: i definitely slept in, so you get your wish. And good luck with your busy days doing whatever the hell your job is

You: and i'll try not to miss you too much, but no promises 😏

A few seconds passed, and you were expecting radio silence from Noah, maybe he was busy already… but then your phone buzzed.

Your heart jumped as you snatched it up. Only to see it was Kylie…

Kylie: ROCKFEST DAYY!!! we’ll be over as soon as James makes a decision on what to get for lunch lol

15 minutes. It took 15 minutes for them to arrive, and to start banging at your door. You just about had time to take a quick shower, and by the time you were drying off, you heard them.

“Bitch open up, we have 20 minutes!” Kylie’s voice rang through the apartment, a little muffled through the door but still loud.

You quickly got dressed before swinging the door open. Kylie practically burst through with a grin, James trailing behind her with drinks balanced in one hand and a paper bag in the other.

“Kylie's brought her ipad, I've got two phones," James said as he dumped everything down on the counter and sat on the couch, "Can we use your work laptop too?”

"Sure." You grinned, quickly fetching it from the shelf above your tv.

“Okay, are we all ready?” Kylie asked, cracking her knuckles before glancing your way. Her eyes narrowed. “Okay, wait... pause!”

“What?” You froze.

“You’re smiling.” She pointed an accusatory finger. “You’ve been smiling since we walked in!”

“What's Noah done now?” James chuckled, before he gasped dramatically, "Have you two been sexting?"

"No!"

And because Noah’s timing is just impeccable, your phone buzzed on the counter, and the screen lit up with his name at the bottom. You snatched it before either of your friends spotted it.

Noah: Thank you. I've just got to the hotel, I’m exhausted

Noah: You doing anything interesting today? :)

“What’s that? Who is it?... Is it him?” Kylie practically leapt over the counter, eyes wide as she peeked at your phone. Her jaw dropped. “IT IS HIM!” she practically screamed.

“Okay, okay- calm down.” you laughed, holding your phone just out of reach as James perked up from the couch.

“Can we see?” James asked, holding his hand out like a greedy child. “Pleaseee.”

You hesitated, biting your lip in thought. You wanted to share�� sort of… maybe? But only if they behaved.

“I’ll let you read,” you finally agreed, eyes narrowing at both of them, “But under one condition… you do not call or text him. I mean it. I just wanna talk about him with you guys, not have you terrorise him before I even get the chance to properly like him. I don't want to think I've scared him off again.”

Kylie nodded, and James held up his fingers in some kind of scout’s honour.

“Cross my heart. Now pleaseee let us see.”

With a reluctant sigh, you passed your phone into James’s eager hands. He immediately found your messages, Kylie looking over his shoulder to read along.

They both fell into silence for a second, eyes scanning over the texts, how teasing he had been, the goodnight sweet girl that had your heart in pieces, the texts from this morning, and the one you’d just received.

James’s jaw fell open.

“Oh my god.” His voice was hushed, like he’d just uncovered state secrets. “He’s so fucking cute... I want him.”

Kylie swatted his arm, giggling like a teenager.

“I think he's good for you.” She turned to you with playful eyes. “I like him. Keep him. Marry him!”

“You’re worse than me.” You groaned, face flushed as you snatched the phone back.

“You need to reply,” James urged, "We'll help you!"

“He's probably trying to sleep," you rolled your eyes, "Maybe I’ll text him later. Cause right now, we have 5 minutes until-”

“OH SHIT THE TICKETS!”

...

Tickets were finally secured. The regular hotel was booked, outfits were sort of planned, though it was months away so you were sure to change your minds.

But there was one thing you hadn't done yet.

"Lineup time!" James grinned, nodding to your phone which was sat on the coffee table, "Wanna do us the honours?"

"Sure." You said, reaching for your phone.

As soon as you unlocked it, you saw you hadn't texted Noah back yet. So you quickly replied, without making too much of a scene.

You: just spending the day with my friends, so i'll warn you now if there's any weird texts or calls it's probably them

You: i hope you manage to get some sleep, and i hope you aren't too jet lagged

"Okay... here it is." You said, standing up as if you were about to make an important speech.

You read through the lineup for the first two days, your eyes lighting up as you pointed out some of the bands you knew you'd all be excited to see. It already looked like a great weekend.

And then… you scrolled to the final day.

“Okay, who’s headlining?” James asked, taking a sip of his drink.

You paused, eyes narrowing at the screen.

“Oh… Bad Omens.”

“Who are they?” Kylie tilted her head, furrowing her brows. “The name sounds familiar.”

"I dunno, but I've heard they're sexy." James smirked.

“Noah likes them,” you said with a soft shrug. “I noticed yesterday, him and his friends were all wearing Bad Omens stuff. Hoodies, shirts- Noah even had their shorts on… I think half his wardrobe is their merch.”

Kylie’s eyes widened with glee.

“Ooooh, so he’s a fan! Maybe you should get another ticket and invite him! I don't mind if he comes with us!"

“Or maybe, he's already going” James added with a smug grin, “If he's such a big fan.”

“Ask him!” Kylie grinned, nudging your arm.

You shook your head quickly, biting back a smile.

“He hasn't texted me back from before, he’s probably still asleep...” You explained, “And I don’t want to bug him too much. I might scare him off.”

James scoffed.

"I doubt that."

"Okay, well, why don't we check that band out?" Kylie grinned, clapping her hands together, "Let's see if your future husband has good taste."

You rolled your eyes at her comment, but checking them out wasn't a bad idea, you've been thinking about it all night actually...

With a nod, you reached for your laptop, clicking on the spotify icon. It took a moment to load, then you finally typed in the name...

Bad Omens 5 million monthly listeners

You stared at the screen, leaning in and squinting a little at the picture of the band. The guy at the front caught your eye immediately, the one with the mask, his face completely hidden. But then his hands caught your attention they were... wrapped?

What the fuck? It's got to be a funny coincidence, right?

But the tattoos on his fingers looked strangely familiar. You’ve stared at Noah’s hands more times than you’d ever admit during class, you had always tried to see what the ink on his knuckles said, if anything, but you could never tell.

You didn't let it play on your mind too much, though. Maybe he was inspired by them and kinda copied him? It wouldn’t be a stretch, especially with how much Bad Omens merch he owned.

“C’mon, what are you waiting for?” Kylie leaned over your shoulder, peeking at the screen. Her brows lifted when she saw the masked frontman. “Ooh… another mystery guy? Maybe they’re doing the whole Sleep Token thing.”

You hummed under your breath, and clicked on their top song- Just Pretend.

The song began, and the moment you heard his voice, you froze.

I’m not afraid of the war you’ve come to wage against my sins…

"Oh..." James' eyes widened. “Okay, yeah. This guy sounds sexy. I like it.”

You didn’t respond, your focus was entirely on the track. His voice was like nothing you'd heard before, so good it had stunned you into silence. But the lyrics were pretty deep too, and honest. Whoever this guy was, you wanted to give him a hug.

I know the pain that you hide behind the smile on your face, and not a day goes by where I don’t think I feel the same…

“Shit…” You whispered under your breath.

You swallowed hard, the words hitting a little too close. You shuffled a little on the couch, like pulling yourself from the haze you were in and bringing yourself back to reality would ease the pain in your chest.

"They're good," Kylie nodded, tapping her fingers along to the beat. “I like them.”

“But do they look it?” James teased, wiggling his brows.

“It’s not about that,” you argued lightly, your gaze drifting back to the masked figure. “Music’s supposed to be about the art… not the looks.”

But still… something about him stuck with you.

...

You didn't hear from Noah at all that night, or the next day. No good morning text, no asking how your morning was or if work was kicking your ass. Just silence...

Or, partially silence, as Bad Omens has been filling the void for you all day. You couldn't get enough of them, and you were definitely excited about seeing them at Rockfest. You haven't even told Noah that you have started listening to his favourite band yet.

But now, you were getting ready for bed, you took a quick shower and as you stood at the bathroom sink brushing your teeth, you heard your phone buzz on your nightstand.

You couldn't move quick enough. You scrambled onto the bed, nearly slipping on the hardwood floor in your socks as you grabbed your phone.

Noah: Fuck I'm so sorry I disappeared… it's been a long day.

You smiled around your toothbrush, feeling ridiculous and lovesick and warm all at once. You walked back to the bathroom to spit the toothpaste out and rinse your mouth quickly, before you flopped down onto the bed and typed back.

You: it's okay, i kinda assumed you were busy with your myserious secret job... but i missed you a little

Your heart sped up when his typing bubbles appeared almost instantly.

Noah: A little? That’s harsh. I’ve been stuck thinking about you all day. It’s been driving me fucking crazy not talking to you.

But before you could even type a reply, your screen changed- your heart stopped in your chest.

Noah wants to Facetime

Your mouth went dry for a second. You stared at the screen, wide eyed and completely frozen still, like this was the most terrifying thing you've ever seen, but also the thing you want more than anything.

You quickly pressed accept.

The screen filled with his face, his hair messy, his hoodie hood pulled over his head. His eyes looked heavy, but they lit up the second he saw you.

“Hey." He smiled.

You felt heat rush to your cheeks, and you couldn't hold back the smile that spread across your face.

“Hey…” your voice was softer than you intended, even sounding a little nervous. “You look tired.”

“I am." He chuckled. He shifted slightly, the fabric of his hoodie rustling as he moved on the hotel bed, leaning his head back against the headboard.

“You okay?” You asked gently, reading between the lines, and seeing more than just tiredness in his eyes.

Noah sighed, eyes fluttering closed for a second before he opened them again.

“Not really,” he confessed, his voice a little lower now. “Today’s been shit. Nothing went the way it was supposed to. Everyone’s pissed and I kinda feel like I fucked everything up.”

Your heart hurt at his words, all you wanted was to reach through the screen and hug him, or do anything you can to comfort him.

“You're way too hard on yourself, Noah.” You frowned, shuffling a little on your bed.

He gave the smallest of smiles, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Maybe… but it’s been a long day, and I just-” he exhaled deeply, like he’d been holding his breath the whole time. “-I just wanted to see you. Hear your voice for a minute. That’s all.”

You tried not to show how that made you feel.

“I’m glad you called." You whispered, your voice soft.

"I'm glad you answered." He smiled.

You moved on the bed again, now laying on your side as you chewed your bottom lip, before you asked,

“When are you coming home?”

“Tomorrow night,” he answered without missing a beat, like the thought of seeing you again was the only thing getting him through. “And when I'm back… can I see you again?”

Your breath caught, your heart damn near imploding inside your chest.

You nodded, your voice stuck somewhere in your throat, only managing a quiet,

“Yeah… I’d like that.”

"Good," Noah smiled tiredly, “Now get some sleep. Text me when you wake up?”

You hummed softly in agreement, still slightly taken back by the tenderness in his tone.

“Goodnight, Noah.”

Noah’s POV

The screen went black after the call ended. Your face disappeared, but his heart was still warm.

Noah sighed, leaning his head back against the headboard, replaying the way you said goodnight, your voice sleepy and soft, and the way you said his name...

Fuck. He was in deep.

Today had been hell, one disaster after another. He'd been playing at a festival and when they were on, nothing was going right. The lights messed up, the sound was off, he kept forgetting lyrics. He let people down. But somehow, hearing your voice at the end it made him feel better.

“That's cute, I didn’t know you were the type to call before bed.” Davis chuckled, half asleep on the other bed in the room. Noah hadn't even realised he was still awake.

"Shut up." Noah rolled his eyes and put his phone down on the nightstand.

Davis chuckled, turning over, but Noah stayed still, staring at the ceiling.

Tomorrow... He'd see you again tomorrow, and maybe he’d finally tell you what you were starting to mean to him.

...

You pushed open your apartment door, switching the lights on and kicking your shoes off. You were still waiting for Noah to tell you he's landed, you've been waiting for the last few hours, ever since he sent the text to say he was boarding.

You tried not to think about it too much, maybe his phone died? Maybe he's been held up in security? You shrugged it off and instead went to your bedroom to change out of your work clothes, into something more comfortable- an oversized shirt with basically nothing beneath. Then you went back to the kitchen and grabbed a snack.

And just as you took the first bite there was a knock at your door.

You rolled your eyes, putting your food back in the fridge, and heading to the door, expecting it to be your friends turning up unannounced again.

"Guys, how many fucking times do I have to tell you-"

You froze the moment you swung your door open, and instead of being met with your annoying best friends, it was...

"Noah?"

There he was, standing right there in your doorway. He still had his bags with him by his side, you guessed he came straight here from the airport. You noticed his hair was a little messy, his eyes tired, but he still looked unfairly good for someone who just got off a long flight.

His eyes softened when they met yours, but there was something unsure in them too, like he wasn’t entirely sure you wanted him here, like he was beginning to think maybe this was a bad idea.

“Hey…” He said quietly.

Your brain stalled completely. You didn’t know whether to hug him, say hi, step aside, or just stand there like an idiot… but apparently, you chose the latter.

For a second, neither of you moved.

“I… thought I’d just show up and surprise you,” Noah finally broke the silence, his lips tugging up into a tired, warm smile. “Sorry... I hope that’s okay?”

"Y-yeah... Don't apologise." You nodded, mouth suddenly dry, your brain still short circuiting, "That's more than okay."

He grinned, his gaze dropping to the floor briefly before looking back up at you.

"I got you something."

"You did?" Your eyes widened, stepping to the side to let him in.

"Yep," he smiled, reaching into his hoodie pocket, "Put your hand out, shut your eyes."

Your brows furrowed, but you did as you were told, and you felt him place something fluffy in your palm.

"Okay... you can open 'em."

You opened your eyes and saw the cute little bear on a keychain, wearing a tiny beret and a blue and white striped top with the word Paris.

"I hope it's okay... I wanted to get you something whilst I was there, and then I saw this. I remembered last time I was here I saw you already had one like that on the shelf by your tv, so I thought I'd get it a little friend."

You glanced over at your shelf, and yep there it was. The little koala bear James had brought back for you from his trip to Australia, how the fuck did Noah notice that?

"I love it," you grinned, about to wrap your arms around him but quickly stopping yourself, "Thank you, Noah."

"I'm glad." He smiled, a proud look in his eyes knowing he'd made you smile. He had also noticed your hesitation, and he opened his arms, inviting you in for a hug. "C'mere"

You wrapped your arms around him, your face pressed against his chest as he held you warm and tight, and for the first time since leaving, Noah felt like he could breathe again.

"I meant what I was saying, by the way," Noah said quietly as he pulled away, "I missed you."

"I missed you, too." You confessed, swallowing hard as you pulled back, feeling your cheeks flush.

"Aww did I make you blush?" Noah teased, his hand softly cupping your cheek, his thumb brushing your pink cheek.

"No." You said through a grin, knowing it was clearly a lie. And his smirk said he could see straight through you.

His hand dropped back down to his side, and you immediately missed his touch. You crossed your arms, not knowing what to do with them as you stood awkwardly in front of him.

"Could I get you anything? A drink? Snack? I dunno if you wanna shower after the flight?"

"Is that your way of telling me I smell?" Noah smirked, eyebrows raised.

"No!" You shot back, before giggling, "Well, maybe a little."

Noah shook his head, chuckling as he set his phone down on the kitchen counter.

"A shower sounds good, if you don't mind?"

"Of course not." You smiled, leading him across your apartment.

You showed him into the bathroom, before quickly leaving to get a fresh towel. You made sure you reached for the softest one you owned, giggling a little at the colour as you handed it over to him.

"Pink?" He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused.

“It’s the best one,” you shrugged, biting back your grin. “And I think the colour suits you.”

Noah’s laugh was softer this time, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.

"Thanks. I won't be too long." He smiled as you backed out of the bathroom, shutting the door behind you and trying not to freak the fuck out.

You took one look at your apartment and groaned, it was a mess. Of course he'd decide to come over with no prior warning, you were waiting for his text saying he's landed to start tidying, not expecting him to just turn up at your door.

Quickly, you did the few dishes that had piled up by the sink, you threw the pile of clothes from the table into the washing machine and before you could do any more, you heard the shower stop.

You barely had time to straighten the cushions on the couch when the bathroom door open behind you.

You turned, your breath catching the second your eyes found him.

Noah stepped out, damp, dark hair falling messily over his eyes, his tattoos bold on his skin, still flushed from the heat of the water, droplets clinging to his chest and trailing down beneath the soft pink towel wrapped low around his hips. You forced yourself to look at his face, not anywhere lower...

But he caught you. His lips curved into a tired, teasing smirk, telling you he knew exactly where your eyes had been a second ago.

“Thanks for letting me shower,” Noah nodded, padding barefoot towards the kitchen where his bag sat. “I think I’m pulling off the colour.” He said, nodding down towards where the towel was wrapped on his hips. You did all you could not to look at the little trail of hair leading down from his belly button.

You opened your mouth, probably to say something dumb, but all that came out was a quiet, flustered chuckle.

“Y-yeah, um… it suits you.” You said, feeling your cheeks burn up again.

Noah reached for his bag, unzipping it halfway. His biceps flexed with the motion, and you forced yourself to look away, opting to stare at the wall instead.

But he seemed to notice.

“You okay over there?” His voice was softer now, but still teasing. And there was something shy behind it too, like he wasn’t as confident as he looked, standing half naked in your kitchen.

"Yeah..." You nodded, biting your lip. "I just- uh… you can get dressed in my room, if you want.”

“You sure?" Noah raised an eyebrow, amused, "I could keep the towel on, seeing as you can't stop staring.”

You swallowed hard, trying not to show what effect his words really had on you.

“Room’s down the hall,” you said quickly, flustered and fidgety as you pointed, “The door’s open.”

Noah chuckled under his breath, his hand brushing your arm as he passed by. The simple little touch made your heart race, and you swore his fingers lingered for just a second longer than necessary.

“Thank you.” He said, before disappearing down the hall.

You stood rooted to the floor, your heartbeat pounding in your chest, your brain completely scrambled.

When he came back, he was in just a plain black tshirt and black joggers, his hair still slightly damp, his shirt revealing enough of his biceps to make you bite your lip. You watched him ruffle his hair with one hand, eyes softening when they landed on you.

“Better?” You asked, your voice a little more awkward than you intended.

“A lot better, thank you.” Noah replied, his voice gentle, but your could hear the tiredness creeping in. He crossed the room before flopping onto the couch. His hand patted the space beside him, his brows lifting. “C’mere.”

You left your spot by the kitchen, and wandering towards the couch, your tummy filling with butterflies as you saw how comfortable he looked here, in your home.

But the moment you sat down, you felt a sharp twinge across your back, making you stiffen slightly. You winced, barely but just enough to for Noah to catch it instantly. His brow furrowed, head tilting as his eyes studied you.

“What was that?”

“What was what?” You asked, playing dumb as you shifted a little in your seat as nonchalantly as possible, ignoring the pain.

But Noah wasn’t having it. His eyes narrowed slightly, and the smirk creeping up on his face told you he already had you figured out.

“C'mon, I saw you wince.”

“It’s nothing.” You tried again, but he knew. You tried to look away but Noah’s hand found your arm, and gently, his thumb brushed over your forearm.

“Hey…” His voice lowered, and he sounded a little more concerned as his eyes met yours again. “What hurts?”

You exhaled, biting your lip as you glanced away, embarrassed by the attention.

“It’s just my back. Ever since I fell on the mat it's been hurting and my office chair sucks so it's only making it worse, I’ve been meaning to replace it, but-”

Noah’s hand slid down, finding your wrist and guiding you gently without pressure.

“Come here.” He said softly.

Your brows lifted as he moved you, turning you slightly so your back was facing him. His hands settled on your waist first, his thumbs brushing over your sides before slipping upward along your back over your shirt.

“Here?” He asked, palms pressing in just enough to make your breath catch.

“Yeah…” You quietly admitted.

Noah hummed, his skilled fingers working slowly, massaging yuo. Digging into the right places just enough to send a relief through your lower back, and a very different kind of warmth to your stomach.

You barely had time to melt into the feeling when his hands lifted entirely. You blinked, glancing back at him in confusion.

“What-”

“If I’m doing this,” Noah interrupted, “I’m doing it properly.”

There was a little glint of amusement in his eyes as his hands slid away entirely, leaving your skin tingly in the absence of his touch.

You stared at him, your cheeks embarrassingly flushed, still a little dazed from those few blissful seconds. Noah chuckled softly, his palm resting carefully on your lower back now.

“Let's go to your room, it'll be better on your bed than the couch.” Noah said, his fingers brushing your side lightly.

Your heart stopped completely.

Your room?

You hesitated for a moment, unsure if you were hearing this right, and unsure of what exactly he meant by that. But then he tilted his head, his eyes soft but still teasing, like he could hear your inner panic.

“For your back,” Noah added, his little smile told you he was clearly amused by your reaction. “Unless you wanna sit here in pain, hunched over like an old lady.”

"okay fine." You managed to finally say, giving him a playful shove as you stood up.

Noah grinned, rising to his feet beside you. He followed close behind as you walked down the hall, it was only a few steps but you felt your heart beating faster with each one. The way he made you feel was absoloutely ridiculous.

The second you stepped into your bedroom, you turned to face him, unsure what to do.

“Lie down,” he said softly, nodding to the bed, “Let me see what I’m working with.”

You moved slowly, a little nervous as you settled on your bed, lying down on your stomach with your arms folded beneath your head. You had only gone for one massage before, the gym across the road used to be a spa, and when you first moved into your apartment you were offered a free massage, so James convinced you to chose the couples massage and the two of you went together, holding hands as you walked through the door, calling each other honey and sweetheart throughout the afternoon.

You quickly snapped back to reality when you felt the mattress dip beneath Noah's weight behind you, the soft creak of your bed making your stomach flip.

“Can I touch you?” He asked gently, melting your heart as you nodded, barely managing a quiet “yes”.

His hands came down over your shoulders, working over the material of your shirt. The way his thumbs pressed into your tense muscles felt so good, and you exhaled against the pillow.

“Jesus,” he chuckled, his thumbs digging gently into the tight knots near your shoulder blades. “You’re tense as hell… no wonder you’re hurting.”

You hummed something in agreement, already melting beneath his touch as he worked slowly down your back.

But after a minute, his hands paused again. His voice came out low, with the same teasing tone he just loves to use with you.

“Can I…” He hesitated, and you felt the faintest brush of his fingertips against the hem of your shirt, at the top of your thigh. “Can you take this off?”

You swallowed hard, heat creeping back up to your cheeks. Your brain scrambled to form a sentence, but all you managed was an awkward little laugh.

"I'm-" But before you could finish what you were saying, Noah’s voice cut in again, quieter this time, reassuring but still laced with amusement.

“I'm just rubbing your back, okay? Promise.”

Nodding, you pushed yourself up slightly, reaching for the hem of your shirt, tugging it over your head.

The moment the fabric cleared your back, you heard it... Noah’s soft inhale behind you. The pause in his movements. Then, you froze.

Because you’d been in nothing but your panties beneath your oversized shirt, no bra, no shorts- it was comfy this way.

For a second, neither of you spoke. You were too busy burying your face in the pillow, completely mortified. And Noah was too busy doing some quiet, simple breathing exercises to make sure he wouldn't explode.

His hands were even gentler as they settled back onto your bare skin on your lower back, thumbs brushing softly across slow and steadily.

“You didn’t mention you were practically naked under there.” He whispered, his palms spreading as he moved up your back.

“I forgot.” You muttered into the pillow, your voice muffled, your face on fire, "Sorry."

Noah chuckled softly, his palms dragging back down to your lower back, resuming the massage.

“It’s okay,” he whispered, leaning in slightly, his voice lower by your ear now. “Don't think I'm complaining.”

You didn't know how you haven't imploded yet, but his hands kept moving, slow and steady and almost teasing, he was giving you just enough pressure to melt away the pain from your back… and replace it with something entirely different.

One particular rub felt so good, and you melted into the mattress under his touch, you hadn't even realised a little whimper had slipped from your lips, filling the room. It was only quiet, but it made Noah freeze like you’d shouted.

His hands stiffened on your bare back, fingertips digging in just slightly before he exhaled slow, composing himself.

You tilted your head, barely glancing over your shoulder.

“Noah…” Your voice, soft and needy, only made him smile.

“Careful,” he said, fingers dragging slow over your waist again, teasing, “If you keep making those little sounds, and I’m gonna start thinking you want something more than a back rub.”

You smiled shyly into the pillow.

“Maybe I do…”

Noah chuckled, his thumbs pressed down gently just above your waistband at the base of your spine, slow circles that had your legs twitching slightly beneath him.

“Oh, I know you do,” he teased, voice dropping, “I can feel it in how tense you are. But…”

His hands left you entirely, again, the sudden absence making you almost whine again. He leaned down, his lips grazing your ear, the warmth of his breath making you shiver.

“If we’re gonna do that… I’m gonna be better prepared.”

Your brows furrowed slightly as you blinked, turning to glance up at him, flushed and confused, making him grin.

“You really think I’m gonna half ass that after I’ve been stuck thinking about it for weeks?” He confessed as he tilted his head, biting back a smirk, “Nah… I’m jet lagged tonight, I'm fucking exhausted, and this…” His large hand slid one more time down your bare back, featherlight and torturously slow. “…this deserves better.”

You whined softly, biting your lip, pouting into the sheets. Noah chuckled, brushing your hair gently aside.

“Be patient for me,” he whispered, “I promise… And when it happens, it'll be worth it.”

You groaned softly into the pillow, still pouting as you shifted beneath him, your hips wiggling just enough to test your luck. The movement was subtle, but not innocent.

“Oh?” You could hear the amusement in his voice. “You trying to be brave now?”

You tilted your head slightly, shooting him your best wide eyed, sweet little look.

“You said I was tense,” you whispered, feigning pure innocence. “Figured maybe you should… focus lower…”

Noah huffed a breath, a half laugh, half growl under his breath.

“Mhm, thought so.”

Before you could react, his hands slid lower. His big, warm palms trailing slow over the curve of your hips, past the waistband of your panties, and down to your ass. He then pressed in, kneading just enough to make your breath catch in your throat, his fingers strong but his pace infuriatingly controlled. How the hell did he do it.

Your eyes fluttered shut, and you gently squeezed your thighs together

“That better?” Noah teased, fingers squeezing gently. You let out a breathy whimper, hips shifting involuntarily beneath him.

“Maybe…” No. It only made it worse.

Noah smirked, leaning closer towards your ear.

“You can squirm all you want,” he whispered, fingers still massaging, moving so dangerously close to where you really wanted them, “But I mean it. I’m not giving you that tonight.”

You turned to look at him again, he could see the need in your eyes, but he was still holding his ground.

“Don’t give me those eyes,” he chuckled, his hands still smoothing over your hips and ass, squeezing gently at the soft skin once more before pulling back again. “Tonight's not the night, I want to be able to give you exactly what you deserve, and you'll thank me for making you wait... You should know by now I don't like to do anything half hearted.”

He leaned back a little, where he had originally been when he sat on the bed.

“Be patent for me, angel.” His smile softened, thumb brushing gently over your lower back again, before he carefully leaned down. You felt his hot breath against your skin, then you felt his lips at the base of your spine, pressing a slow, gentle kiss. “I promise you, it’ll be worth it.”

Noah’s hands worked your back for a minute more before they finally slowed, his touch feather light now as he finished working over the last stubborn knot in your upper back. You exhaled, feeling entirely melted into the mattress, your skin warm everywhere his fingers had been.

His hands lingered for a moment longer, but when you peeked over your shoulder, Noah was already leaning back, clearing his throat like he hadn’t been seconds from combusting.

“Okay,” he mumbled, flexing his hands like he needed a distraction. “Feeling better?”

"Yeah, you've got good hands," you chuckled, "Thank you." But it wasn't all better. He might've fixed the ache in your back but it was doing nothing for the ache between your legs.

You rolled onto your side, cheeks warm as you pulled your shirt back on. You caught him sneaking a glance your way, his eyes soft, expression a little shy despite the teasing from before.

“You look tired,” you observed, sitting up, pulling your knees to your chest. “You… wanna stay tonight? I mean, only if you want-"

Noah’s face softened, but he shook his head.

“God, I wish I could,” he frowned, running a hand through his hair. “But Matt’s picking me up soon, and I’ve got so much shit to sort at home tomorrow. Otherwise, trust me, I wouldn’t be leaving this bed.”

Your stomach sank a little, and your expression faltered, even if you tried to hide it.

“Oh… okay.”

Noah smiled softly, reading your face too easily, he could see the disappointment and the nervousness creeping back in.

He reached for you without thinking, crawling up onto the bed beside you. His arms circled you gently, pulling you into his chest as he hed rested on your pillows, his voice low by your ear.

“Hey… I can stay for a bit,” he whispered, his fingers tracing your arm. “Just wanna cuddle you for a minute… if that’s okay?”

“Yeah…” you whispered back with a shy smile. “That’s more than okay.”

You melted into him, your cheek pressed to his chest, his arm wrapped around your waist, his fingers gently brushing up and your forearm. For a while, neither of you said anything. You just breathed together, the sound of his gentle heartbeat slowly setting yours.

Then, Noah's voice softly broke the quiet, he was careful as he spoke, like he was trying to find the right words.

“Hey…” His thumb traced the curve of your waist. “I didn’t mean to… disappoint you. Not tonight.”

You pulled back a little, just enough to look up at him, your brows knitting togethre.

“You didn’t,” you whispered honestly. But his eyes were already drifting away, like he wasn’t entirely convinced.

Noah exhaled through his nose, his hand resting on your back.

“I’ve just… been working on changing how I think about that stuff,” he admitted, voice low but steady now. “Sex, I mean.”

You stayed quiet, just listening. Your chest tightening slightly with how raw and vulnerable he suddenly sounded.

“For a long time,” he continued, his thumb brushing absently at the hem of your shirt, at the top of your thigh, “I used it like how people use drugs or alcohol... Like an escape. Something to numb my head, to distract me. It wasn’t about anyone but me, really.” His eyes finally met yours again, softer this time. “I don’t wanna do that anymore.”

You swallowed, your heart pulling tighter at his words.

“I’ve been sober a while now, I told you that already” Noah added, “But I’m still figuring out how to… rewire my brain when it comes to it, y’know? I don’t want it to be how it used to, I don’t want it to feel like I’m using you to fill some void. You deserve so much more than that.” His hand squeezed your side gently.

“Noah…” You whispered, your voice cracking just slightly.

He gave you a little sleepy smile, eyes scanning your face.

“I know I’m overthinking it,” he shook his head, “But. I've never cared about someone this much before.” His lips twitched into a little smile. “It’s kinda scary.”

You gave him a shy smile back as you buried your face back into his chest, wrapping your arm tighter around him.

"But is it worth it?" You mumbled into his chest, looking up to meet his eyes, and you could already tell the answer.

Noah's eyes softened the moment yours met his, like your question broke down the last little wall he had. His hand slid up your back, fingers curling protectively at the nape of your neck as he brushed a strand of hair out of your face.

“Yeah,” he murmured, his thumb tracing slow circles against your cheek, “It’s worth it.”

You nuzzled impossibly closer to him, trying to hide how his words made your heart feel. But then your nose scrunched, catching the faintest, familiar scent clinging to him.

“…You smell like me.” You giggled softly, your lips brushing against the fabric of his shirt as you spoke.

"Oh yeah, I left my shampoo in France so I used a little of yours," Noah whispered, a little amused, "Your one smells better anyway."

You chuckled tiredly, eyes fluttering shut, your body sinking further into his, lulled by his warmth and the rhythmic motion of his fingers tracing patterns just above your knee.

His touch slowed even more as he felt your muscles relax completely, his palm smoothing along your thigh, the smallest hint of possessiveness behind the softness of his touch, like he was quietly reminding himself you were here, tucked against him, falling asleep in his arms.

Noah’s other hand came up, brushing your hair back gently, his fingers threading through the strands with care as he pressed a light kiss to the crown of your head.

“Sleep,” he whispered, barely audible now, his thumb still moving against your leg. “I've got you.”

And with his warmth all around you, his heartbeat steady beneath your cheek, sleep came easily.

...

Noah had meant to stay awake. But somewhere between your steady breathing and the warmth of your body, his eyes had shut too.

He didn’t know how long he’d been asleep, but then his phone buzzed faintly on the bedside table.

Matt: I'm outside

Noah groaned softly under his breath, sitting up slowly, trying his absolute hardest not to disturb you.

But the moment your warmth left his chest, your lashes fluttered.

“Noah…?” Your voice was quiet, sleepy and confused.

He stilled immediately, already leaning over to brush your hair back gently, his voice low and apologetic.

“Shh… It’s okay, I didn't want to wake you.”

You sat up as your hand found his arm, your fingers curling loosely around his wrist.

“…Don’t go,” you whispered, voice still rough from sleep, so soft it made his heart tighten, "Please."

Noah exhaled, his thumb brushing your cheek, visibly struggling for a second.

“Trust me… I don’t want to,” he confessed, his voice rough too now, quiet in the space between you. “But Matt’s outside, I've gotta go home and unpack.”

You pouted, your sleepy eyes softening in a way that made walking away feel like actual torture to him.

“If I could stay, I would,” Noah added gently, his forehead dipping down to yours, noses brushing. His fingers brushed down your arm, squeezing your hand. “But… soon, yeah?”

You nodded slowly, reluctantly letting your hand fall away from his wrist. Noah smiled softly, brushing your hair back one last time.

“Lie back down, angel,” he whispered. “You’ll be asleep again before I even get to the car.”

But you stubbornly shook your head.

“No… I’ll walk down with you.” You mumbled, already sliding off the bed.

“You sure? You look half asleep still,” he teased softly, but the little smile pulling at his lips told you he liked the idea more than he was letting on.

You nodded, rubbing your eyes, padding across the room in your oversized shirt, not bothering with pants.

“I’m sure,” you yawned. “You flew across the world… I can walk you downstairs.”

"Okay," Noah chuckled under his breath, shaking his head fondly as he picked up his bags from your kitchen, "Let's go."

You walked side by side down the hallway towards the elevator, you had offered to take one of Noah's bags and he looked at you as if you'd offended him, making you giggle a little to yourself.

Outside, by the main doors, the soft glow of streetlights lit the road. You spotted Matt parked across the street, he was sat in the drivers seat, phone in hand.

You gave him a little wave, which he returned with a little smirk creeping up on his face.

Noah set his bags down by his feet, eyes landing back on you, softer now.

“Thanks again… for letting me use your shower.” He said with a little smile.

“Of course…” You bit your lip, hesitating for a second. “Could I maybe see you this week? If you’re not too busy?”

The reply was instant, no teasing this time.

“I’m never too busy for you.”

Your heart did something ridiculous. You tried not to show it, stepping in to hug him instead, your arms circling his middle, face pressing briefly to his chest, where it had been just moments ago.

Noah’s hand came up, lingering at the small of your back, his other curling gently around your jaw as he pulled back, tilting your chin up so you looked at him.

His eyes were a little darker now, his face glowing under the streetlight. His hand cupped your face again, his thumb brushing your cheek, before he ever so slowly leaned in, his nose barely an inch from yours. His eyes were on your lips, and you swallowed hard.

“Can I kiss you?” He asked, his voice quiet... he even sounded a little nervous.

You nodded before your brain could even catch up, biting your lip to hide the giddy smile spreading across your face.

"Yes... Please."

Noah’s lips curved into the smallest smile too, barely there, before he finally leaned in, closing the space between the two of you.

The kiss was slow, like he was pouring weeks of wanting, restraint, and quiet affection into this one little moment. His lips pressed to yours so gently at first it barely felt real, and when you tilted your chin up to meet him halfway, his hand at your jaw slid back into your hair, holding you steady, holding you close.

He deepened the kiss by the slightest bit, still soft, still so careful, his other hand smoothing along your waist. His lips were so soft, and he tasted of mint, your arms came up to wrap around his neck as you kissed under the streetlight. You couldn't believe this was actually happening, you almost felt dizzy.

After what felt like minutes, but was only a matter of seconds, he finally pulled back, his forehead resting against yours. His thumb brushed your cheek again, and for a moment neither of you spoke. You just stayed there, breathing the same air, completely and utterly lost in each other.

Noah’s smile returned, a little shy but a little proud, before he spoke.

“Been wanting to do that for… longer than I probably should admit.”

“Yeah, me too.” You chuckled, not ready to let go of him just yet.

But then sound of the cars horn startled you both.

"C'mon, you two!" Matt laughed, "I've not got all night."

You chuckled, turning back to Noah, finally letting go of him.

“I’ll text you,” he promised as he grabbed his bag.

You stood there frozen for a second, heart still doing laps in your chest as he wandered over to Matt’s car, giving you a wave before you turned back to the doors of your building.

As Noah climbed in, you just barely heard Matt's voice teasing him.

“Took you long enough, lover boy…”

---------------------------

AHHHHHH <33

@dragoncopper @renegadebirch @super-btstrash-posts @pipidoll @xslavicprincess @foliosgirl @h4tef6ck @jesuisunchaton @saythatuwill @astronoids @missduffsblog @montgomery-929496 @lonelydragonlady @happyclifford @popularpopularmonster @bluehairpunklol @bruce9818 @itsyaboinoah @mayaslifeinabox @lonesomegrace @dominuslunae @lacy1986 @jesuisunchaton @overmydeadbodysblog @kenjipepsi1 @onlyethereal @theright-wrongway @geminigirlfromfinland @miss570 @trvshdxddy @spookieolson @sugaruapologist @latenightmusiclover @eversiinceny @shuiguans @lyschko666 @xxkatsatwatwafflexx @flowery-mess @pathion @bladeupnred @urafakebetch @mycheersricochet @bloody-spades @moostress19 @nojoyontheburn

#★who are you?#noah sebastian #noah sebastian x reader #noah sebastian fanfic #bad omens fanfic #noah sebastian imagine #noah sebastian fanfiction #noahsebastian #bad omens fanfiction #kickboxer!noah

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runningincircl3s · 17 days ago

Text

Who Are You?

Kickboxer!Noah x Reader

Chapter Five

chapter warnings: i don't want to spoil anything but i think it's important for me to mention reader does NOT have an eating disorder!! she's just anxious!! a little nsfw? just a comment from matt tho!! i put too much of myself into reader

masterlist ♡ can i just say thank you sooo much for the love on this fic already it's actually crazy??? the idea for this has been on my mind for months (not to expose myself here but it's been my bedtime scenario to help me sleep for so long lmao) so i'm just happy that i can sit here and giggle and kick my feet whilst i write this and people can feel the same when they read it!! :)

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

Minutes ago...

“You're sure this is a good idea?” Kylie asked, her heels tapping quickly against the hallway floor as she attempted to keep up with James' pace- but right now he was a man on a mission, and he was not slowing down for anyone.

“Of course!" He grinned, turning to face her, "Worst case, we say we forgot she had plans. Best case?” He smirked, “We catch them being horny and weird, and we get to make fun of her forever!”

Kylie stopped in front of the door and fished around in her bag for her spare key, whilst James pressed his ear up against the door, listening.

“I can hear something. Are they... laughing?” His brows furrowed as he waved a hand for Kylie to join him.

“Probably-“

THUMP

“What was that?” James gasped, wide eyed.

Kylie grinned and shoved the key into the lock

“Let’s find out.”

The door slowly creaked open.

Kylie stepped in first and immediately froze. James bumped into her shoulder as he followed behind.

“What-“

And then he froze too...

Because on the couch, front and centre stage, barely five feet away from them, was you and Noah.

Or you straddling Noah, his hand on your hips, your forehead against his shoulder.

James blinked, before turning to Kylie to whisper.

“Are they-“

“OH MY GOD,” Kylie shrieked, not bothering to keep quiet as she sounded somewhere in between thrilled and horrified. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!”

You yelped, recoiling like you’d been caught stealing candy.

“KYLIE?!”

Noah groaned under his breath, already covering his face with one hand like he’d foreseen this exact scenario in a nightmare.

James stared, wide eyed in stunned silence, and then calmly said.

“Are you… dry humping him on the couch?”

You scrambled upright, bashing your leg into the coffee table in your rush to escape.

“OW FUCK! No! I- we were sparring!”

“Are you sure?” Kylie asked sweetly. “Because it kinda looked like you were trying to fuck him into the upholstery.”

“Jesus Christ.” Noah mumbled under his breath as he sat up.

“Your form was solid, though." James said as he took a step forward, "Good hips.” He nodded, his hand stroking his chin as if he were a judge on a TV show, "Only thing I'd say you could improve on is-"

“JAMES,” you shrieked. “GET OUT!! BOTH OF YOU!!!”

They both giggled as they backed out of the door. You rushed to slam it shut behind them, making it rattle in its frame.

And for a minute, all you could do was stand there, your back to the room, hand still on the door handle.

You couldn’t breathe. You couldn’t move, couldn’t even look at him.

You’d never wanted the floor to swallow you more in your entire life.

You had just been on top of him in front of your best friends.

Oh god. You were never going to hear the end of this.

You thought you should say something to Noah, though you weren't entirely sure what you should say in a situation like this. So, you swallowed hard, your throat burning as you opened your mouth.

“I…” you said, finally turning just enough for him to hear you speak, your eyes still locked firmly on the floor. “You can have a shower if you want. Or… you can just go. It’s fine.”

For a moment, Noah didn’t move. He didn’t say anything.

And you still couldn’t look at him.

Your heart pounded so loudly in your chest that you could barely hear how suffocating the silence actually was. You tucked your hands into the sleeves of your gym shirt, as if that could help you.

“I’m really sorry,” you said, voice quieter now. “About everything. About them. About… that.”

Still, nothing.

You peeked up at him for the briefest second.

He was sitting exactly as you’d left him, on the edge of the couch, head in his hands, forearms resting on his knees. His brows were drawn tight, his lips pressed into a line, eyes fixed somewhere on the carpet, far away. He looked like he was thinking too hard.

And then he got up. He quickly threw his hoodie on and grabbed his gym bag.

“Save it. I’m the one who should be sorry.” He mumbled as he passed you on the way to the door.

He didn’t look your way once. He just reached for the handle with no hesitation.

And left.

…

You didn’t text him all week, and he didn’t text you either.

Not that you expected him to, he looked pretty pissed when he left and that only made you feel more awful about it all. You made him uncomfortable, and now you were afriad he would never talk to you again- because this time he actually had a valid reason.

Every time you unlocked your phone, you thought about texting him. But you didn't know what to say... Hey, its me, sorry! or Did I ruin everything? or Sorry you had to push me off your lap in front of my best friends, still up for class on Tuesday?

A few days later, your friends came over to make up for that night. But they noticed you weren't yourself, and they admitted to feeling guilty about it, but you reassured them it had nothing to do with them, and everything to do with you.

“Has he texted you yet?” Kylie asked gently as she handed you a cup of tea, as if she didn’t already know the answer. You couldn't even look at the tea. It reminded you of him. How he had let you try his, how he had paid for you at the café, how you had screwed everything up before it could even start.

You shook your head, placing the mug down onto the table before curling deeper into the blanket cocoon you’d wrapped around yourself on the couch.

“Nope.”

“Are you going to text him?”

“Nope.”

She gave you a look, crossing her arms as she stood above you.

“Babe.”

“I can’t,” you groaned. “What if he thinks I’m still trying to... I don’t know, hump him on the couch again?!”

James popped his head in from the kitchen, a spoon hanging out of his mouth.

"I'm sure he'd happily accept, did you see the look on his face? I thought he was about to-"

“JAMES!”

“I’m just saying." He shrugged, a grin creeping up on his face, "I'm sure he'd love for you to "fall" on top of him again.”

“Don’t listen to him.” Kylie rolled her eyes as she sat down on the couch beside you.

You groaned and buried your face in the blanket.

“I’m going to cancel my gym membership. I'm never showing my face there again.”

“No,” Kylie said firmly. “You’re not.”

You peeked at her through a little slit in the blanket.

“You can’t stop me!”

“I can,” she replied, tugging the blanket away from your face, “And I will. You love that gym, and you love kickboxing. You finally found something you enjoy and you’re good at, and you’re going to throw it away because you dry humped your hot trainer on a Tuesday?”

“I didn’t-”

“You did.” James called from the kitchen. “And it was hot!”

“Shut up, James!”

Kylie leaned in, lowering her voice.

“You didn’t do anything wrong. Neither did he. You tripped and things escalated from there. And I thought you said he was the one who encouraged you to move... on him."

"I thought so, but what if I was wrong? He kept telling me not to move, even when I was trying to get off of him but then that happened... And then you guys walked in. You weren't even supposed to be coming, and I told him that! I'm just worried I made him mad, he couldn't even look at me before he left."

“Babe,” Kylie said gently, “Noah’s not mad. He probably left because he panicked, not because he didn’t like it.”

"So why hasn't he texted me?"

"Why haven't you texted him?"

You stayed quiet, chewing your lip.

“You’re not cancelling your gym membership,” she said again. “You’re going to go to the next class like a grown up and face it. And if he acts weird, then he’s the problem. Not you.”

You stayed buried in the blanket, but your voice was soft when it came out.

“…Will you walk me there?”

“Of course.” Kylie smiled.

...

You’d been anxious all day. You didn't sleep the night before, you couldn’t eat, you couldn’t focus at work. You couldn’t stop thinking about that damn night, and regretting every moment of it.

Your apartment was a mess, responsibilities you've ignored over the last few days were piling up, both clean and dirty laundry piled on the dining table, dishes filled the sink, but all you’d done for the last hour was sit on the edge of your bed, staring at the hand wraps Noah let you borrow last week. The ones you didn't get a chance to give back before he left.

You had taken better care of them than you had yourself for the last few days, you googled if they needed washing, what to use and how to clean them correctly, what's the right way to dry them...

Now, they sat in your lap like they weighed a hundred pounds.

You told yourself that if things went wrong tonight, if he glared at you from across the room, if he ignored you, acted like he hated you, then you were simply only there to return them to him. You'd hand them back. Say thanks. Leave. Cancel your gym membership. Move across the planet.

It was barely a plan. But it was the only thing holding you together right now.

A sudden knock at the door made you flinch, pulling you back from your thoughts as you tossed the wraps down onto your bed and made your way across you apartment to open it.

You could already hear James' voice from the other side of the door. And as you slowly pulled it open, you were met with two overly happy best friends.

Kylie was leaning against the doorframe behind him, arms folded, and James was stood directly in front of you, holding two coffees, you already knew one would be used as some kind of bribe.

“You ready?” Kylie asked, noticing how you were already in your gym clothes.

“Absolutely not.” You shook your head, but just as you were about to shut the door on them, something got in your way.

It was James' arm. Holding out a coffee.

“Drink this, put some shoes on and grab your bag.”

...

You barely spoke on the way out of your apartment, because you still weren't sure this was a good idea. The walk to the gym was barely even five minutes, but it was long enough to feel your life flash before your eyes.

James continued to sip his coffee, oblivious to your meltdown, whereas Kylie kept glancing over at you- probably to check up on you, though you thought she was making sure you hadn't ran away in the time it took her to push the main door open.

You took a deep breath as you stopped at the curb opposite the gym. It felt like you hadn't been here in years, when only two weeks had passed.

“I can’t go in." You whispered, shrinking into your hoodie like it might shield you.

“You can,” Kylie said, looping her arm through yours. “And you will.”

“What if he ignores me?”

“Then he's an asshole and he doesn't deserve you." She said simply, already steering you toward the crossing.

The light turned green, but you didn't budge.

“Come on.” Kylie tugged your arm.

“I’ll throw up!”

“You won’t.”

“I’ll cry!”

“You might. But that's okay.”

Your feet stayed rooted.

“Kylie-”

Kylie gave James a nod, and he quickly grabbed your other arm, coffee still in hand, and the two of them physically dragged you across the street.

“KYLIE. JAMES. STOP!!”

“Relax,” James waved his hand. “No one even knows what you did. Except us. And Noah. And the couch. And maybe even Aaron, depending on where you hid him.”

You groaned, the building was growing closer with every forced step.

The doors were right there now. Right in front of you.

You knew you had to do this, because what's the worst that could happen? Your life would go back to the way it was 6 months ago, and Noah would find a new girl to teach, to tease, to hold-

That was all the motivation you needed. Suddenly, you feet were moving before you could even attempt to stop, and you had made it into the gym.

As the glass doors slid shut behind you, you turned back to your friends, giving them an unsure wave.

But, as you reached the door to the usual room, you hesitated.

You peeked through the glass panel on the door, just to see if he was there- and yep! You spotted him immediately.

He was across the room, standing in his usual spot, your usual spot, but he was laughing with two guys you didn’t really recognise. They’ve never been here before. Noah looked genuinely happy, like he didn't have a care in the world, and you don't know why that stung the way it did.

Your fingers tightened around the strap of your gym bag, wondering whether or not to leave. You could slip out and nobody would notice. Noah certainly didn't look like he was bothered by your absence.

But you couldn't leave. Not with his hand wraps in your pocket. Or else you’d be reminded of him every time you saw them in your drawer of shame, along with your crochet hooks and acrylic nail kits, and other items from hobbies you had given up on a long time ago.

You swallowed hard, forcing your legs to move, forcing your arms to reach out just enough to push the door open.

Your shoes tapped lightly against the floor as you crossed the room, weaving between bodies, keeping your eyes on him.

You felt more nauseous with every step, and as soon as he was in arms reach, you felt a little light headed, like you might pass out.

You took a breath, barely holding it together as you reached him. You tapped his arm gently, his skin warm under your cold fingertips.

“Noah?” Your voice came out small, a little unsure, but he quickly turned to face you. “Can we… talk?”

For a second, he looked like he wasn’t sure what to say... but before he could answer, Tasha's voice rang across the gym.

“Alright everyone, warm up time! Partners or solo, let’s go!”

Your heart sank. But Noah gave a small, apologetic tilt of his head, offering you a softer look this time, one that was more familiar, more him.

“After class,” he promised quietly. “I’ll find you.”

You barely had time to nod before he was tugged away by one of his friends, the one with the beard and darker hair, leaving you alone.

Great!

With a sigh, you shrugged off your hoodie and dropped your bag by your usual spot on the bench. After a quick sip of water, you began to stretch near the edge of the mats. Everyone else had already partnered up, pairs sprawled across the room, laughing, bouncing lightly on their feet, and there you were. Alone.

You bent to fix your shoes, fiddling with the laces, when a voice spoke beside you.

“You wanna partner up?”

You glanced up.

One of Noah's friends, the one with the slight baby face, smiled at you. His hair was dirty blonde, and you noticed how one of his arms was completely covered in tattoos, matching the one fully covered leg.

"Sure!" You straightened, blinking.

With a kind smile, he held out a hand.

“I'm Matt.”

...

You swiped the back of your wrist across your forehead, the warm up had been a little more intense today, and you already felt a little sticky with sweat.

You had been trying your best to ignore Noah, and it had been working so far. You hadn't glanced his way once, and every time you could hear his voice, you blocked it out- or tried to at least.

But now you needed a drink. You wandered over to the where you left your bottle and took a sip before leaning against the wall to catch your breath. That’s when you noticed Matt struggling to wrap his hands. You spotted how one hand was wrapped too loose, and the other was looking like a tangled shoelace.

You couldn’t help the small laugh that slipped out, and Matt’s head snapped up, his eyes narrowing as you approached, still smiling to yourself.

“Need some help?” You asked, already reaching for the wrap.

Matt made a face, you couldn’t tell if he was somewhat amused or offended.

“It’s harder than it looks, alright.” He said, watching your hands.

You chuckled under your breath, gently taking his left hand, fingers brushing his wrist as you started unravelling the mess.

“You’ve got them a little twisted,” you explained, smoothing the fabric out. “You’ll cut your circulation off if they’re like that.”

“You seem to know what you’re doing.” He pointed out.

You shrugged, carefully looping the wrap across his knuckles, the way Noah had shown you a dozen times now.

You were even slightly surprised you knew what you were doing. But Noah didn’t have to know you knew how to do it, you liked the way he did it for you.

“I had a good teacher.”

Matt thought nothing of it at first, and you finished wrapping his hands. You let yourself glance over at Noah now, just the once, and you kinda wished you didn't. He had just slipped his black gloves on, his chest was still rising and falling pretty quickly from the warm ups, and he was grinning at whoever his other friend was. His hair had fallen over his eyes a little, his biceps looked a little too biteable-

"I think we should spar," Matt said, making you flinch as he pulled you out of your Noah induced daze, "But you'll have to go easy on me, I'm still pretty new at this."

"Yeah," you nodded, your pulse still racing, your cheeks still slightly hot from looking at the guy across the room, "We should."

You both slipped on a pair of gloves, and then you looked at Matt... You tilted your head, giving him an unimpressed once over. His stance was okay, but his feet were too wide apart, shoulders too tight. You knew it wasn’t going to work.

“You’re gonna fall like that.” You pointed out, stepping closer before he could argue.

Matt’s brows lifted, but he didn’t argue as you nudged at his foot with yours to adjust his position.

He stayed perfectly still, watching you with amused eyes as your hand skimmed down his arm, gently repositioning his elbow and wrist.

“Getting real hands on already,” he murmured, grin widening. “If I’d known you were this friendly, I’d have showed up sooner.”

You laughed softly, giving his shoulder a quick push to test his balance.

“If you showed up sooner I probably wouldn’t have had to correct you.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he chuckled, rolling his neck, “Show me what you got!”

And you did exactly that.

You both sparred for a while, dodging each others moves, laughing as you kept him on his toes. It was clear he wasn’t expecting you to be so good at this, and in all honesty neither were you. You dodged nearly every hit he threw, slipping just out of range, each time his frustration growing more obvious.

“Okay…” Matt exhaled, shaking his head as you ducked another jab, your grin only growing. “You’re way better than I thought.”

“Like I said, I had a good teacher.” You shrugged, your gaze meeting Noah's for just a moment.

Matt’s eyes shot across the room for the briefest second, then, a knowing smirk crawled across his lips.

“Oh… you’re that y/n,” he muttered, stepping forward faintly, “Yeah… Noah always talks about you.”

“He does?” You raised an eyebrow.

Matt didn’t reply right away, he continued to move, forcing you to follow. His grin widened, cocky now.

“All the time… y’know he never really cared too much about the gym before, but now he makes sure he doesn’t miss this class if he can help it. He said he trains with a pretty girl…” His voice dropped to a more teasing tone. “But you should hear him when he gets home… we’ve got paper thin walls.”

He let the words hang, a slow smirk spreading across his face as he watched your guard slowly drop before he continued.

“Your names real familiar by now, I thought I was just hearing things the first few nights,” he added. “Turns out, he’s not exactly quiet when he’s thinking about you.”

Your breath hitched, heart picking up speed. Matt’s grin only widened as he dodged your wobbly jab effortlessly.

“Yeah… one sleepless night was all it took for me to figure out what kind of ‘training’ goes on in his head,” he said. “Can’t unhear it now.”

Before you could respond, he made a move since your guard was down. It was just a quick kick that caught your side, but it knocked you off balance. You stumbled, laughing as you landed hard on your ass.

Matt grinned down at you.

“Gotcha!”

“You asshole!” You chuckled, reaching out for his hand as he offered to help you up.

But just as you made it back to your feet, you heard his voice.

“Swap with me.” It wasn’t a question, Noah was already tugging his gloves off.

“Noah?" Your brows furrowed.

“Dude, I didn’t mean to-“

“Don’t care. You’re with Davis now.” He said, already taking Matts place on the mat.

Matt rolled his eyes, but seemingly knew better than to fight.

“Fine, fine!” He sighed, giving you a small smile and a gentle wave as he wandered off.

“Are you okay?” Noah asked, his voice laced with panic as he turned his attention back to you. “That looked like it hurt.”

“Noah, I’m fine. Really. He didn’t knock me down, I slipped… You know what I’m like.”

“But he caught you off guard, he shouldn’t have done that.”

He was right. He did catch you off guard…

One sleepless night was all it took for me to figure out what kind of ‘training’ goes on in his head…

“C’mon, let’s take a break.” Noah nodded towards the benches by the side of the mat.

You didn’t fight him. Mostly because your lower back was already starting to throb from where you hit the floor, and the adrenaline was wearing off quick.

The second you sat down, you winced. You shifted a little, but it was enough for Noah to notice, his brows furrowing immediately.

“Where?”

“Where what?” You blinked.

“Where does it hurt?” His tone left no room for argument, his gaze sweeping over you like he was assessing every inch for damage.

“It’s nothing.” You tried to say, but he was already crouching in front of you, his hands- still wrapped but he had ditched the gloves now- were resting lightly on your knees, waiting for permission to check.

He tilted his head, eyes softer now as he said it again.

"Tell me where it hurts."

Your cheeks flushed.

"Just... near the bottom of my back."

“That’s what I thought.” He said, stepping over the bench so he could get behind you. His thumb carefully brushed the hem of your shirt, “Lift this a little?”

You swallowed, fingers trembling slightly as you pulled your shirt up. His thumb gently dipped beneath the waistband of your leggings, moving them down just the slightest bit, just enough for him to see the faint mark blooming across your skin.

His jaw flexed. His thumb traced the space just beside the bruise, never on it, never pressing.

“He shouldn’t have done that.” Noah muttered under his breath, more to himself than to you as he stepped back over the bench.

“It was my fault, I wasn't paying attention-”

“No, it wasn’t.” He said, crouching down to your level. “You don’t blame yourself for that.”

You weren’t sure what to say, so you settled for a weak smile.

“Stay here,” he said, standing. “I’ll grab some more water.”

When Noah returned with two bottles of water, sitting beside you on the bench, something had changed. Now that you weren’t on the floor in pain, you had both remembered.

He handed you the bottle, but neither of you spoke.

You both sat there in silence, you were thinking of how to word what you wanted to say, and so was he. In all the weeks of coming to the gym and seeing Noah, nothing had ever felt as awkward as it did right now. Not even the time you misjudged and kicked him in the balls.

It was just too quiet.

You fiddled with the bottle cap, twisting it open and taking a sip just to avoid saying what you knew was coming. Noah ran a hand through his hair, his own bottle untouched.

Then, finally, when you both spoke at once.

“So about last week-”

“I should probably explain-”

You both cut off, blinking at each other, the corner of his mouth lifting with a little awkward grin.

“Sorry." You mumbled, laughing under your breath.

“No, you first.” He offered, voice lower and quieter than usual- nervous perhaps, though he hid it pretty well.

You hesitated, chewing the inside of your cheek before glancing at him.

“I… thought you were avoiding me.”

“I thought you were avoiding me.” He said, his eyebrows raised in surprise, and a little amusement.

You breathed a soft laugh, fiddling with the thumb hole in your sleeve.

“I wasn’t. I was just… embarrassed, and I thought you wouldn't want to talk to me again.”

He tilted his head slightly.

“Why?”

“Because…” You looked away, staring down at the bottle in your hands, thumb running over the ridges of the plastic. “Because my friends barged in, and it was embarrassing for me. And I thought it was for you too, and then you couldn't even look at me afterwards... I thought I made you mad."

Noah stayed quiet for a second, his gaze fixed on you, though you were still looking down at your bottle. After a moment, you heard him exhale softly, like he was trying to ease something off his chest.

“You didn’t make me mad,” he said, his voice gentle, "Not at all."

You peeked up at him. His brows furrowed a little as he sat back, water bottle resting loose in his hands.

“I couldn’t look at you,” he admitted, the faintest edge of embarrassment touching his tone, “Because I thought I messed it up.”

"Messed what up?” You frowned.

“That night,” he said, gaze dropping to the ground for a second before meeting yours again. “I should’ve asked before I touched you like that. I wasn’t thinking straight… And when they walked in, I saw your face, I thought... I thought I pushed you too far. You looked… I don’t know. Scared. Like you regretted it.”

“Noah,” you whispered, shaking your head quickly, “I wasn’t scared. And I didn’t regret it.”

He didn’t answer right away, but the tension in his shoulders eased a little, though hus eyes searched yours like he wasn’t sure if he could believe you yet.

“I didn’t stop you,” you added softly, the words barely above a whisper, "Because I wanted it too."

Noah was quiet for a moment, like he was taking your words in. Then, with a little nod of his head, he hummed.

“Okay,” he said with a soft chuckle. “Well, I'm glad we're both idiots.”

You laughed at that, nodding your head as you felt the weight on your chest finally lift for the first time in days.

"We are."

Now, the silence between you felt comfortable. You sighed contently, like you could finally breathe.

However, the silence didn't last for long. Because your stomach decided now was the perfect time to let out a long, humiliating growl!

grrrrrhrggghhhg

Your eyes widened in horror, and you felt your cheeks heat in embarrassment. Noah’s brows raised slightly.

"Are you hungry?" He asked, his voice soft as his eyes met yours again.

You opened your mouth to deny it on instinct, but his head tilted knowingly, cutting you off before you could speak.

“Don’t lie,” he murmured, eyes narrowing in playful warning. “I’ve been watching you. You've not been yourself, your hands are shaky and you let Matt knock you on your ass… how long’s it been since you ate?”

"Last night," you confessed, fiddling with your bottle again, "I've felt too sick, too nervous to eat all day. I've been worrying about seeing you, I was worried you wouldn't want to talk to me."

“Hey,” he said gently, his voice softening. “I told you… I’m the idiot who thought you wouldn’t wanna talk to me.”

Your lips parted like you wanted to say something, but you couldn’t.

Noah exhaled softly, eyes still steady on yours before he leaned down, reaching for his gym bag beside the bench. After a moment of rummaging, he pulled out a protein bar, the wrapper slightly crumpled but still intact.

"This is all I've got," he said, sounding almost a little disappointed , like he genuinely wished he could pull a full meal out of his gym bag for you, "I guess it's better than nothing."

You smiled faintly, your nerves unraveling just enough to let a breathier laugh slip out.

“It’s fine,” you murmured, reaching for it, “Thank y-”

But before your fingers could brush the wrapper, he held it just out of reach, brow raised, the corner of his mouth curving ever so slightly.

“Only if you let me take you to dinner after class." He bargained softly, "Wherever you want."

My bed?

Your lips parted, eyes darting between his and the protein bar like you were considering the terms of a contract.

“It doesn’t have to be a date,” he added, “I already told the guys I’ll drop them home so I'll do that first... then we’ll get food. Is that okay? You can still have the protein bar if you say no by the way.”

The sincerity in his tone made your heart warm. You nodded once, small but certain, and he finally handed over the bar.

“Good.” He smiled.

You hesitated, eyeing the wrapper suspiciously, then took a cautious bite… and instantly grimaced.

“Oh my god,” you mumbled around the dry, chalky mouthful, “I've had one of these before... and I swore I'd never touch one again!"

Noah chuckled under his breath, stealing the rest from your hand and finishing it off himself with zero hesitation.

"Dunno what you mean, they're delicious!" He teased, though it was clear he was trying not to scrunch his face up.

Despite everything, you smiled, settling back on the bench beside him, shoulders brushing slightly. For the first time all week, you could actually breathe.

"I'd ask if you want to get back on the mats," Noah said, looking over at where you had left your gloves, "But I don't want to risk you passing out on me."

"Wouldn't be my most graceful moment." You laughed softly, nudging his shoulder.

Noah's lips parted, like he was about to say something. Then, his eyes drifted across the room towards his friends. They looked like they were meant to be sparring, but instead they were messing around, seeing who could wrap their arms and legs around a punching bag and stay on for the longest.

"Okay," Noah sighed under his breath, "If they don’t wanna be sensible..." He stood, grabbing both your gym bags without asking, slinging his own over his shoulder. "We’re leaving."

"You sure?" You asked, standing slowly.

"They’re barely training, you nearly fainted, and I promised you food. Let’s go."

You smiled, following him across the mats as he called out to the other two.

"We’re done. Grab your stuff."

Matt groaned dramatically but obeyed, the darker haired one- you heard Noah say his name was Davis- shrugging as they followed on behind you.

You didn’t miss how all three of them were wearing something with the words Bad Omens on it... Noah's shorts had the name printed down the side, Matt had a black hoodie with a design on the back, and Davis wore a tshirt with the name on the front. It could've bene a coincidence, but you've noticed Noah seems to wear a lot of things with that name on...

"What's a Bad Omens?" You asked, eyeing the clothes. "You guys in some sort of cult?"

"You could say that," Davis snorted, "But no, it's a band that we're all... fans of."

"Like... a boyband?" You chuckled, watching Matt's smirk grow even more mischievous.

"Metal band." Davis clarified with a nod of his head.

"Yeah but the lead singer? He's pretty enough to be in one, isn't that right, Noah?"

"I... uh..."

You looked over at him, intrigued.

“You a fan too?”

"Yeah... something like that." Noah said, but thankfully this conversation ended as you reached the car- and now Matt and Davis were arguing over the front seat.

“Hey, you sat in the front on the way here!”

“Yeah only cos you walked!”

“So it should be me-“

“I’m older.”

“It’s Noah’s fucking car!”

"Guys, calm the fuck down," Noah interrupted, unlocking the car with a click. His hand pressed lightly to your lower back as he guided you toward the passenger side. "She’s got the front."

Ignoring the guys groans, you slid into the passenger seat, still hyper aware of the warmth of Noah’s hand as it drifted off your back, his touch lingering on your skin long after it was gone. The door clicked shut beside you, and you stared at the dashboard for a second, completely frozen.

You were in Noah’s car.

Noah’s car.

The inside smelled a little like him, you definitely needed to find out what cologne he uses. His hoodie was on the drivers seat, you assumed he took it off just as he got out earlier. He threw his and your gym back into the back with the guys, where you could hear Matt and Davis still bickering as they piled in behind you, but it all felt muffled compared to the way your pulse thundered in your ears.

You were in Noah’s car.

The guy you only knew as the hot gym guy just months ago!

Breathe. Just breathe.

You shifted awkwardly, gripping your seatbelt with shaky hands, fingers fumbling as you tried to clip it in. Noah slid into the driver’s side, glancing your way, one brow raising faintly as he caught your expression.

“You okay?” He asked, his voice laced with amusement like maybe he already knew exactly why you looked ready to combust.

You forced a little nod, swallowing hard as you clicked the seatbelt into place.

“Yeah,” you mumbled, cheeks burning. “Just… y’know… your car.”

A small smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth as he started the engine.

“Yeah, you like it?” He teased.

...

After dropping the guys off, the car was noticeably quieter... You sat in the passenger seat, picking at your nails as Noah pulled away from the curb.

He didn’t say anything for a moment, just one hand on the wheel, the other relaxed on the gear stick. The radio played quietly, which you were thankful for, glad you weren't sat together in complete silence.

“Where d’you wanna go?” He asked, glancing over at you. You were a little surprised at how gentle his voice was.

You opened your mouth, but your brain faltered. You couldn’t think. The nerves from earlier were still sat in your chest, and being in his car next to him wasn't exactly helping. You weren’t even sure what you felt like eating.

“I…” you hesitated, shaking your head with a small shrug of your shoulders. “I dunno.”

Noah’s eyes were back on the road, but his lips curved into a small smile.

“That’s alright,” he replied, steering easily through the traffic. “I’ve got somewhere in mind... It’s nothing fancy. Just somewhere I like to go when I’m home.”

When I'm home.

You frowned slightly, because that's not the first time he had said that. Where else would he go? You already guessed he travelled a lot for work, so just assumed he meant that, and you nodded.

“Okay.”

The ride wasn’t long. Maybe five, ten minutes tops. But it felt longer with how aware you were of him, and how close he was- as if you weren't sat on top of him last week.

Eventually, he pulled into a small parking lot beside a little building with soft lighting spilling from the windows. It wasn’t what you expected, though you didn't even know what you were expecting.

The place was small, but it was inviting. It looked cozy from the outside, and that was confirmed as you followed him in. The lighting was warm, the sound of chatter and laughter filled the air, along with the smell of food, which made your stomach grumble once again.

The waiter by the door didn’t even ask for a name. Just a nod at Noah, like they knew him well, and you were led to a booth tucked near the back by a window.

You both sat down, giving the waiter your drinks order before he left.

And now here you were, sat across from Noah at a small, worn in table, menu in hand, eyes darting nervously between the list of food and him.

Noah sat casually, forearms resting on the table as he thumbed through the menu.

You, on the other hand, were barely skimming the options.

It wasn’t even the food. It was him... His presence, the soft look in his eyes, how nervous you suddenly felt around him.

You had felt this way before, but every time you had ever caught feelings for someone, it was never reciprocated- and if it was, it was only an act so they could get in your pants. But here you were, sat across from a guy who genuinely seemed to care about you, and the thought of him possibly feeling the same way as you made your heart do something you couldn't explain.

You hadn't even noticed you'd been staring blankly at the menu, not reading it. You'd been in a world of your own, and you quickly managed to snap yourself out of it and looked at the options.

Cheeseburgers. Fries. Onion rings. Mac and cheese. Double bacon cheeseburgers. It all sounded delicious... if you were sat at home by yourself in front of the tv, but the thought of ordering something like this in front of Noah made you feel a little uneasy.

And, of course, Noah noticed. His gaze lifted, head tilting slightly as he set his menu down.

“What’s wrong?”

His voice startled you slighlty, fingers tightening around the laminated page.

“Nothing!”

He didn’t buy it. His stare didn’t waver, but his expression softened, as did his voice.

“Talk to me.”

Your throat tightened, cheeks warming as you exhaled slowly, admitting under your breath,

“I don’t… know what to get.”

The words barely made it past your lips, but he caught them.

“That’s okay,” he leaned forward a little, his hand resting casually near yours on the table, like he was wanted to touch you but held back. “You’ve never been here before.”

You bit your lip, heart racing embarrassingly fast. Noah let the quiet stretch a moment longer, eyes searching yours before adding gently,

“Would you like me to order for you?”

The softness and sincerity in his voice made it hard to say no. So, despite the feeling in your chest, you nodded your head.

"Okay... yeah."

A small grin spread across his face, subtle but enough for you to notice, and your heart to skip a beat.

The menu stayed in your lap, mostly forgotten about, your fingers fidgeting with the corner as Noah caught the attention of the waiter.

You half expected him to just order his own food twice, but instead he almost listed off the whole menu. Two different burgers. Chicken nuggets. Fries. Onion rings. Even a side of wings, and also requested some different sauces.

You blinked, glancing up at him as the waiter scribbled everything down and walked off.

“That’s… a lot." You almost whispered, your voice quieter than you meant it to be.

Noah leaned back in the booth, casually draping his arm along the backrest, eyes fixed on yours- god he's so fucking hot.

“Yeah.” He nodded, like it was obvious. “No pressure that way, you can have whatever you want.”

You felt like your heart was going to burst with the amount of pure love you felt for this man.

You almost felt yourself begin to tear up- sure, it was just a simple gesture, all he did was order a bunch of things from the menu, but he did it for you. To make sure you had a choice, that there was at least one thing you liked.

“Noah, you didn’t have to-”

“I wanted to.” His eyes softened as he spoke, “Figured it’s easier than stressing over what to order… and before you say you weren’t, I could tell. You always get quiet when you’re overthinking, something I noticed during that first class.”

Your stomach did a silly little flip at that, and you felt heat rush to your cheeks. You looked away, tucking your hands into your lap.

He’d noticed. And instead of blatantly pointing it out, making it worse, he made it easier.

The food didn’t take long to come, and in the time it took you had been telling Noah all about your week, and your asshole of a boss. But then, the table was filled with plates, a basket of fries, burgers stacked high, golden onion rings- it all smelled incredible, and your stomach agreed, growling loudly enough that Noah huffed a soft laugh under his breath.

“See,” he teased, already reaching for one of the burgers, sliding the basket of fries toward you, “It smells good, right?”

You reached for a fry, hesitating a little, but Noah didn’t rush you. He didn’t say anything, just started eating his own food. You nibbled at the fry, glancing up at him across the table.

He caught your gaze and smirked faintly, nodding toward the rest of the food.

“Try this,” he said, not long after, holding half of his burger out toward you, it did look delicious. “It’s good!”

You hesitated again, but he was so patient with you. Your heart fluttred as you leaned forwards, taking a bite. Noah watched you carefully, smirking as you hummed softly in approval.

“Good, right?” He said as he pulled the burger back. “Told you.”

You nodded, still chewing, smiling despite yourself. The nerves didn’t completely vanish, but they eased enough for you to actually eat and enjoy the food, your appetite growing again.

…

You weren’t even sure how it happened, but between the two of you, every plate on the table was empty after about 20 minutes- besides the spicy wings, which you pulled a face at when you tried, and Noah teased you for it. You were comfortably full now, slouched just slightly in your seat, fingers lazily chasing the last few fries in the basket.

Noah watched you, elbows resting on the table, silently taking in how comfortable you looked now compared to earlier. You peeked up, catching the way his lips had curved into a small, warm smile.

“What?” You asked, wiping your hands with a napkin.

“Nothing.” He said with a gentle tilt of his head, his eyes warming as they met yours, along with his heart.

Your brows furrowed, but his smile only grew as he leaned in a little more.

“Just proud of you,” he expressed, voice a little quieter now. “I know you weren’t feeling yourself earlier.”

Your mouth hung open a little, and you didn't trust yourself to speak as you noticed how his words made your tummy feel fuzzy. You wanted him to tell you that again and again and again. You looked up again to meet his eyes, and something in the way he looked at you in this moment settled you more than anything else had all day.

You swallowed gently, tucking your hands beneath the table.

“Thank you.” You whispered, quiet but honest, looking away to try and hide the way your cheeks had turned pink.

A gentle, comfortable silence settled between the two for a quick moment, until Noah leaned back, tossed his napkin onto the plate and glanced toward the door.

“I should probably get you home,” he said. “Before your friends freak out.” Oh yeah. Kylie and James were waiting for you at your place.

“…Shit.” You blinked, laughing under your breath as realisation settled over you. “I didn’t tell them I was going anywhere.”

“What, you just disappeared on them?” Noah chuckled.

“I didn’t think you’d actually take me to get food," you confessed, a little embarrassed, "I thought you were just saying it… just to be nice.”

He huffed a quiet laugh, pushing his chair back as he stood. His large hand came down, palm open in silent offer. You slipped your hand into his, letting him help you up, trying not to think about how perfectly your hand fit in his.

“For the record,” he murmured as you gathered your things, “I never say things I don’t mean. If I say I’ll take care of you…” His eyes met yours with a look that matched the teasing yet serious tone in the way he spoke, “I’ll do it properly.”

You followed him out, Noah’s hand brushed lightly against your lower back as he guided you toward the car, his gentle touch lingering for a moment longer than it probably needed to, like he wasn’t quite ready to let this evening end yet.

“Watch your head.” He said as he opened the passenger door for you.

The simple gesture made your heart warm, like everything else he does, but you slipped in carefully and let him shut the door for you, before he circled around to the drivers side.

The ride started quiet, the two of you still full but comfortable, you could already feel yourself wanting to yawn- it had been a long and rather emotional day.

You glanced his way once, studying his side profile, the line of his jaw, the tattoo on his throat that crept up the side of his neck- his perfect fucking nose that you wished you could reach out and just boop.

You hated how much you wanted him close again. Even if it was just for a moment, and you had spent all week regretting it, but you couldn't stop thinking about how his hands felt on your hips, how warm his bare chest was beneath your fingertips, how hard he was beneath you, and how it felt as he rocked you against him-

Stop. You shook the the thoughts from your head... but just as the horny ones left, the dreaded ones found their way back.

What if you didn't let your friends drag you across the street to the class? What if you only dropped by the class to hand his wraps back to him and leave again without saying a word. Would he have reached out? Or would he have let this- whatever was going on between you- die?

You exhaled quietly, turning your head to look out the window.

“Hey…” His voice gently pulled you from your thoughts, he glanced your way for a second before returning to the road. “You've gone quiet.”

"Sorry... I was thinking."

“Don't do that, you'll give yourself a headache,” he smirked, gently teasing. “No, seriously,” he prompted, voice a little softer now, “What’s on your mind?”

You hesitated for a moment, debating whether to come up with a lie or an excuse, but knowing Noah, he'd see through you.

"I almost didn't go to the class today. My friends had to physically drag me across the street because I was too scared to face you again... but if I didn't come, what would've happened?"

You noticed the way Noah’s fingers flexed on the wheel as he pulled the car to a slow stop outside your building, not even realising you were here already. He parked up, turning the engine off, before answering.

“What would've happened?” He repeated your question under his breath, eyes fixed ahead for a second like he was thinking it over. “I would’ve gone insane,” he admitted simply, turning his face to meet your eyes. “I spent the whole week thinking I screwed everything up. I was ready to text, I wanted to… but I couldn’t tell if you wanted space, or if you hated me, or…” He exhaled, shaking his head with a quiet laugh, almost at himself. “Guess we both overthink shit.”

"Yeah... well, we don't have to anymore." You said hopefully, meeting his eyes with a soft smile. The kind that made his heart race.

He chuckled under his breath, his gaze dropping briefly to your lips before looking away again. You unbuckled your seatbelt slowly, the click loud in the quiet car.

“I’d say come in… but my friends are waiting for me, and I'm already gonna get interrogated tonight, and I'm sure you'd rather not suffer through a million questions too.”

You noticed the way he smiled at the offer, but he also hesitated briefly.

“I’d love to, and I would have done...” he sighed, his voice dropping softer, sounding almost regretful. “But I’ve got a flight to catch in a few hours.”

"What?! A flight?" Your eyes widened.

"Yeah... work stuff." He nodded, running a hand through his hair, ruffling it a little. “It's just for a couple days."

You tilted your head, studying him.

“You’ve got a flight to catch... and you’re out here with me instead?”

That made him chuckle, and he nodded softly.

“Yeah,” he said simply, like it was obvious. “You were more important.”

For a moment, you forgot how to breathe. You were frozen completely still... did he really just say that or was this a dream? Did you pass out in the gym when Matt knocked you down?

Noah just chuckled to himself and opened his door, stepping out. The sound brought you back to earth and you followed him out the car, waiting for him to grab your gym bag from the backseat.

"Want me to walk you up?" He asked, and you answered with a nod.

Slinging your bag over his shoulder, he reached out for your hand, and he held it all the way up to the door of your apartment, his thumb brushing the back of your palm every now and then, as if to remind you this was real.

Once you reached your door, the two of you stilled. The world around you seemed to just melt away as you looked up into his brown eyes, a colour you’ve grown to love.

You really took him in from this angle... the small scars on his face which you guessed had been left behind from piercings, the dark colour of his lashes, the shape of his lips, the little freckle just under his eye... you wanted to reach out, cup his face in your hands, stand on your tip toes and kiss every inch of him.

His eyes dipped to your lips again, lingering for just a second longer than they should’ve. But he didn’t lean in, even when you thought he was going to. Instead, his grip on your hand tightened ever so slighlty, his fingers gently curling higher up your wrist, and then he lifted your hand between you.

You barely managed to swallow the lump in your throat as he pressed his lips to the back of your hand.

His lips were warm and soft against your skin, sending a shiver down your spine as his eyes met yours, looking at you through his lashes as he gave you the most gentle, delicate kiss.

It was an innocent gesture, but the way he lingered, the way his eyes locked with yours, made it feel incredibly intimate.

You were surprised your knees didn't give out beneath you. The feeling of his lips alone sent heat to your lower belly but the way he looked up at you through it almost made you whimper

“See you next week?"

You nodded, mouth dry, brain working overtime just to form a sentence... but somehow, something slipped out before you could overthink it.

“Text me… when you land?” you whispered, almost shyly. “Just… so I know you got there safe. Wherever you're going.”

“I will,” he promised quietly, his voice soft and sincere. Then, just as he pulled away, gently letting go of your hand, he whispered, “I'll miss you."

--------------------------------

reading this back i don’t really like this chapter :/ BUT THE NEXT ONE…….

#★who are you?#i should kinda add the tag oblivious!reader #noah sebastian #again... i apologise for any inaccuracy lmao #noah sebastian x reader #noah sebastian fanfic #bad omens fanfic #noah sebastian imagine #noah sebastian fanfiction #noahsebastian #bad omens fanfiction #kickboxer!noah

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