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The Bachelor - Episode 3 | Week 3

the bachelor masterlist | previous part

pairings: rafe cameron x female!reader

words: 11.4k

The house was quiet in that early morning way. Somewhere, a kettle clicked off. A few girls had gathered in the kitchen, bare-faced and wrapped in hoodies, passing around a fruit bowl and trading theories about this week’s date cards. In the living room, someone had already claimed the coziest corner of the couch, knees tucked under a throw blanket, eyes flicking to the front door every few minutes – just in case.

Daniella sat cross-legged on the main couch, wrapped in cardigan and drinking her coffee. She flipped through a magazine, not really reading it. Next to her was Alyssa, she had her knees pulled to her chest, hair up in a claw and a hoodie.

Kayla was perched on the windowsill with her legs stretched out. She was watching the driveaway like something exciting might roll in it if she stared long enough.

Y/N leaned against the arm of the couch between Daniella and Alyssa, one leg over the other, a soft oversized sweater slipping slightly off one shoulder. She held a mug of tea.

“Okay,” Daniella said suddenly, tossing the magazine onto the coffee table, “someone tell me he has a flaw. Just one. Anything. I’ll take crooked teeth. Weird laugh. Something.”

“Please,” Y/N muttered. “The man walked out of a painting. He’s probably good with animals and children too. Just to spite us.”

“He probably supports local shops,” Alyssa added.

“I bet he’s a bad texter,” Kayla offered. ”Hot people are usually terrible at texting.”

“He probably types full sentences and uses punctuation,” Daniella said, voice light. A ripple of laughter.

“I can’t lie” Daniella said after a beat, tucking her feet beneath her. “That group date felt like it was weeks ago.”

“It was five days,” Y/N deadpanned.

“Exactly.”

The girls chuckled. From the kitchen, footsteps padded across the hardwood, and a few girls more trickled in. Sierra, Naomi, Zara and Lana wandered through.

“Is this like the unofficial group therapy circle?” Sierra asked, eyebrow raised.

“More like group denial,” Alyssa replied, gesturing at the couch. “Take a seat.”

Selene and Kelsey appeared next. “There is a weird energy today,” Kelsey said as she flopped into a nearby chair. “Like we’re all waiting for something.”

“Because we are,” Zara muttered. “There’s a date card coming, you just know it.”

Y/N tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her gaze flicking toward the hallway, then back to the group. There was a kind of comfort in this, the shared waiting, the lowkey panic woven between the jokes.

“Okay, real question,” Alyssa said, glancing around from her seat on the couch. “Is anyone actually feeling good about where they stand with him?”

Selene exhaled, stretching her legs out. “I mean… I think? We talked at the last cocktail party, and it felt easy. But also, like, he is talking to everyone. So who even knows.”

“I get that,” Lana said. “I had a good moment with him on the group date, but I haven’t had anything since. I keep thinking… what if that was it?”

Kelsey shook her head. “It is weird, right? One second you feel confident, the next you’re spiralling because he laughed at someone else’s joke.”

“That’s because we’re all trapped in a romantic Hunger Games,” Alyssa muttered.

They all laughed.

Confessional – Y/N

“I am really hoping to see him today.” She said, her voice softer, thoughtful. “Last week.. it just felt easy. There is something about him, this calm, like I can actually breath when I am around him.”

“I miss my pillow,” Vanessa said suddenly. “My actually memory-foam, perfectly broken-in pillow. Not this polyester nonsense they gave us.”

Brianna groaned in solidarity. “Yes. I swear the one in my room feels like it was stuffed with peanuts.”

Daisy spoke up. “I miss my dog. Like.. my whole chest kind of aches for her.”

Madina nodded sympathetically, “What kind?”

“She is a rescue golden retriever. She does this thing where she presses her face against mine when I’m sad. I don’t even know if she remembers me right now.”

“She does. They always do.”

“I left one of my sweatshirts with her,” Daisy murmured. “For the scent. It was either that or cry into her fur for six hours before I left.”

A laugh bubbled up between them.

“God,” Vanessa said, “We are officially the most unhinged girl group in Bachelor history. Missing dogs and foam pillows like we’re stranded in the woods.”

“You mean we’re not?” Brianna said dryly.

“Feels like it.” Madina murmured, making them all laugh.

Confessional – Madina

“Being here... you miss a lot of things. Your bed, your people, your routines. But you also start realizing how much energy you’re spending trying to be seen.”

“And yeah, last week at the cocktail party.. I got interrupted mid-sentence.” She gave a short breath of a laugh, no heat behind it. “I get it. Everyone wants time. Everyone’s trying to make something happen.”

“But there is a difference between showing up for yourself and stepping over someone else to get ahead. And I think, at some point, that difference matters.”

Across the room, Zoe and Britt had tucked themselves into a quiet corner where the low hum of the other girls voices faded into background noise.

Zoe curled her legs beneath her, glancing over at the group by the kitchen. “Do you ever feel like we’re extras in someone else’s love story?”

Britt lets out a dry laugh. “You’re definitely not.”

“You think some are playing a game?” Zoe tilted her head.

“I think everyone is, in their own way,” Britt said. “Some of us just haven’t figured out our strategy yet.”

They fell quiet for a beat as laughter bubbled up from across the room. The mood in the corner didn’t shift dramatically, but there was something unspoken sitting between them.

Zoe let out a small sigh. “Honestly I’d rake one real conversation at this point. Just enough time to feel like I exist in his world.”

Britt didn’t say anything right away. Then, with a quiet shrug: “Yeah. Same.”

The front door opened like a cue and every head turned. Jesse Palmer walked in, relaxed and polished in a blazer and dark jeans, holding a crisp white envelope.

“Good morning, ladies.”

The room chorused back: “Morning, Jesse.”

“Everybody feeling good?”

A wave of yeahs, mhmms and polite smiles passed through.

He nodded, stepping closer to the center of the room. “Well, congrats, you’re the nineteen women who made it through last week. Which means you’re the women, Rafe really sees something with. A future. So let’s keep things moving, shall we?”

He held up the envelope. “This week there are going to be two fun group dates.. and one very romantic one-on-one.”

Jesse smiled and set the envelope down on the coffee table. “Here’s your first group date card.”

He looked around the room. “Best of luck, and I hope to see you all, later this week. Have fun.”

He waved once and disappeared just as quickly as he arrived. And the room? Instantly on fire.

Silence lingered for half a beat. Then Daniella nudged Lana with her foot. “You’re the closest. Go.”

Lana raised an eyebrow but reached for the envelope, flipping it open with a small smirk. Her voice dipped low for the drama.

“Madina, Maya, Alyssa…”

A pause.

“Zoe, Daisy, Brianna ...”

Y/N felt her breath catch.

“Vanessa, Kayla..”

Another pause.

“And me.”

A moment of silence stretched in the air like static before it all dissolved into a chorus of oh my gods and scattered claps.

Y/N didn’t say anything at first. That flicker of disappointment that rolled through her before she could stop it. That subtle, sinking feeling of being left out, edged in doubt she didn’t want to give voice to. Across the room, Daniella’s eyes met hers, the same shared sting of being left out but she didn’t need to say anything. They both knew. But they didn’t let it linger.

Still, Y/N reached across and squeezed Alyssa’s hand with a quiet smile. “You’re gonna crush it.”

Daniella bumped Kayla’s shoulder gently. “Okay, okay. Try not to outshine the whole planet, please.”

Kayla grinned. “No promises.”

Lana turned the card over. “There’s a quote,” she said, then read aloud:

“Looking for my Mrs. Right. – Love Rafe”

Daniella bumped Kayla with her elbow. “No pressure or anything.”

Kayla smirked. “Just casually planning my wedding with a man I’ve spoken to for maybe forty minutes total.”

The room buzzed with nervous laughter and a growing swirl of speculation. A few of the girls exchanged glances excited, maybe a little terrified as they realized this wasn’t going to be just another group hang. It was going to be something bigger.

As the girls began drifting off to get ready, voices lifting with questions and guesses about the date, a producer’s voice called from the hallway, “Ladies, please head to the styling room!”

Back in the living room, those who remained sat quieter now, each retreating to their thoughts, some hopeful, some restless.

And Y/N, stared at the closed door a second longer. Soft smile, but quieter now. Because in the silence after the laughter, the doubt crept in. She thought things had gone well with Rafe. Thought the group date rose, their conversation, that kiss, all of it, had meant something.

But now her name hadn’t been on the card. And maybe that was fine. Maybe it was just how the show worked. Still, it was hard not to feel the little sting of being overlooked. Even harder to stop the spiral of wondering why.

The SUV with nine girls all dressed in white rolled to a stop in front of a coastal estate, where white roses lined the walkaway and a string quartet played softly in the distance. The girls stepped out one by one, their white dresses catching the sun.

Laughter bubbled from a nearby tent, where a faux reception had already been staged up. White linens draped long tables, champagne flutes sparkled and strangers, dressed as wedding guests, turned in their seats, ready to welcome the nine brides.

“Okay, this is crazy,” Maya whispered, wide-eyed as she took in the scene. “Like… are we actually fake marrying him?”

Rafe stood near the center of the setup in a crisp navy suit, boutonnière pinned, a grin tugging at his mouth as each woman approached.

“Ladies,” he called, voice warm and playful, “you ready to get married?”

A mix of nervous laughter and dramatic gasps followed, heels clicking against stone as the women made their way toward the fantasy waiting for them.

“I wonder if they’ve started already,” Naomi murmured, arms crossed over her chest.

“They left like an hour ago.” Kelsey replied from the kitchen barstool. “So yeah, probably mid-chaos by now.”

Sierra, curled up in the chair across from Y/N, gave a soft sigh. “Honestly? I kind of wish I was there. Even if it’s awkward. At least then you’re part of the storyline.”

Across the room, Zara was picking at the cuff of her sweater. Her expression was tight. Too still.

“Z?” Leila said gently, her voice soft from the armchair beside her.

Zara didn’t answer right away. Then, suddenly, she stood up. “I need air,” she muttered, already heading for the back door.

“Zara-” Naomi started, half-rising.

“I’m fine,” Zara insisted, though her voice wobbled just slightly. “Just… give me a sec.”

The door clicked closed behind her.

Silence hung thick in her absence.

“She’s been off all morning,” Kelsey said quietly.

Britt crossed one leg over the other, her voice cool. “Maybe this just isn’t for her. If watching other girls play pretend bride is enough to break you, that’s kind of telling.”

Selene looked over. “Bit harsh.”

Britt shrugged. “It’s the truth. No one’s entitled to a rose or a breakdown.”

Y/N looked up from her mug. “You know there’s a way to be honest without being an asshole.”

“I’m not being an asshole,” Britt said flatly. “Just realistic.”

“Realistic doesn’t mean cruel.”

“Oh, come on,” Britt scoffed. “She walked out like someone died. We’ve all been overlooked by now, it’s part of the deal.”

“Yeah,” Y/N said, voice sharper now, “and we don’t all turn around and use that to drag someone else down. There’s a difference.”

Britt’s brows lifted. “Why are you even pressed? This doesn’t have anything to do with you.”

“It does when you talk like you get to decide how people are allowed to feel.”

Britt opened her mouth, but Daniella cut in quietly, “Maybe dial it back before you sound even more heartless.”

No one laughed. Even the background music had stopped or maybe it just felt that way?

Y/N stood up. “I’ll be back.”

No one stopped her.

Y/N found Zara in the far corner of the backyard. “Mind if I sit?” Y/N asked, voice low.

Zara nodded her head. Y/N sat beside her. For a while, they just sat like that.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” Zara finally said, voice low. “Everyone else seems to be floating through this. I’m… stuck in my own head.”

Y/N didn’t push, just waited.

“I keep overthinking everything. What I said, how I looked, whether I’m doing too much or not enough. And every time I think I’ve found my footing, I lose it again.” She let out a shaky breath. “It’s exhausting.”

Y/N glanced over. “That sounds… really hard.”

Zara gave a small laugh, but there wasn’t much humor in it. “I keep wondering what Rafe sees when he looks at me. Or if he sees me at all. Like, what if I’m just background noise in someone else’s love story?”

Y/N’s heart pulled. She reached over, gently brushing Zara’s arm. “Hey. You’re not background to anyone.”

Zara looked down at her hands. “It just feels like I’m falling behind. Like I should be more confident, more open, more sure. But I’m not. And then I wonder if that means I’m not cut out for this.”

“You’re human,” Y/N said softly. “And you’re allowed to have doubts. You’re allowed to feel all of this.”

Zara’s eyes shimmered, but she blinked quickly. “I just hate how small I’ve started to feel. Like I’m shrinking inside myself.”

Y/N leaned her shoulder gently into hers. “You’re not small, Zara. You’re brave. Brave enough to admit you’re struggling instead of pretending you’re not.”

Zara gave a quiet exhale, like something inside her had loosened just a little. “Thanks,” she said, voice barely above a whisper.

Y/N offered a soft smile. “Anytime.”

And they sat there, not trying to fix anything just letting the quiet stretch out around them, holding space for whatever came next.

Back at the group date there had been equal parts surreal and theatrical. Each woman had walked down an aisle. Toasts were made, mock guests were charmed and champagne glasses were raised in pretend celebration. Rafe moved through it all with warmth and ease, lifting veils and playing the part of groom more convincingly than some had expected.

The final moment came with the “first dance” reserved for just one. Daisy.

She made the fake wedding feel, somehow, honest. When her name was called, she looked stunned, cheeks flushing pink as soft music cued up and Rafe offered his hand.

The rest of the girls watched from the sidelines, as the bride and groom swayed slowly under the fairy lights.

Confessional – Rafe

“Today was really fun. Kind of surreal. Watching them give speeches, laugh with the guests. I saw different sides of them today.” A small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

Everyone was piled into the living room, scattered across the couches.

“They’re taking so long on the group date,” Sierra muttered, pulling a blanket tighter around her. “I wonder what they’re up to.”

“Probably fake-cutting a wedding cake,” Selene said dryly, earning a few half-smiles.

Leila yawned, “Feels like they’ve been gone forever.”

Daniella sat on the floor with her back to the couch, hair piled on top of her head in a lopsided bun. She didn’t say anything, just tapped her fingers against her knee, like she was waiting for something.

Confessional — Daniella

“It’s getting pretty late and we’ve been sitting around all day, and as much fun as I’ve had, like in the back of my mind I’m thinking, when’s the next date card coming?” She shrugged, smiling faintly. “So I’m hoping it’s tonight.”

Knock. Knock

Half the room jumped.

“Oh my God,” Leila said, clutching her chest. “That scared me.”

Naomi walked to the door and cracked it open, glanced outside then turned back, holding a single white envelope.

Confessional – Britt

“There’s a one-on-one and a group date. We don’t know what order they’re coming in,” she said, arms crossed, tone light but clipped. “But I hope it’s a one-on-one with my name on it.”

“Let’s see,” Naomi said, sliding a finger under the seal of the envelope.

She cleared her throat, reading aloud:

“Let’s chase the rush – together, love Rafe”

A beat. Just long enough for every girl in the room to brace.

Then: “Y/N”

Silence cracked wide open.

Y/N blinked, lips parting slightly, as if the words took a second longer to land. Her heart stuttered. She exhaled like she’d been holding her breath for hours. “Oh my god…”

The room shifted around, soft claps, a few cheers, Daniella was already turning toward her with a grin, grabbing her hand, Selene giving an encouraging nod, Naomi reaching out to squeeze her knee and Zara giving her a warm, quiet smile.

She laughed small, breathy and almost shaky. “I’m really happy,” she admitted, half-laughing again. “Also maybe slightly spiralling, but like… the good kind?”

Confessional – Y/N

She was glowing.

“I’m excited. I really am. But also nervous in, like… a full body kind of way?” She laughed again, covering her face for a second. “First date nerves. You know?”

Back on the group date, all nine women were gathered around him on a couch, fire pit flickering softly in the middle. The atmosphere had settled into something quieter now, something more expectant.

Rafe looked around at each of them, hands resting loosely in his lap.

“So… how’s everyone feeling?” he asked, voice warm.

There were murmurs “Good”, “Really good”, “Amazing” followed by a round of soft laughs and nods.

He smiled, letting the energy breathe for a moment before continuing.

“Well, I feel like all of you leaned into what today was. You had fun with it, and it meant a lot to see that. And the conversations tonight too I felt the same way. I just think you’re all doing such an amazing job being here and opening up.”

As he leaned forward slightly, his hand reached for the rose resting beside him. The movement alone shifted the air, subtle but felt.

A soft swell of suspenseful music built underneath.

“I really wanted to be intentional tonight,” he said, voice lower now, more grounded. “Let each of you know how much I appreciated today, the energy, the effort, the honesty. And I know there’s only one rose, but what this really means to me is someone being real. Showing their heart through all this craziness. Trusting the process… and me.”

He looked up, eyes scanning the circle.

“With that being said…”

A beat.

“Maya.”

Her name landed gently, but firmly.

Maya’s breath caught as she looked up, eyes wide.

Rafe smiled. “Will you accept this rose?”

She blinked once, then nodded, her voice soft: “Yes.”

As he handed it to her, a few of the women clapped lightly.

Maya took her seat again, rose resting delicately in her lap.

Rafe stood then, brushing his hands along his jeans.

“Thank you all again. For today and for tonight. I’ll see you soon.”

He moved slowly, giving each woman a quick hug on his way out, a quiet word or a small smile, something personal.

THE NEXT MORNING

In the quiet vanity space just off the bedrooms, soft golden light filtered through the curtains, warming the cool tile floor.

Y/N slipped into a soft white two-piece set. Light, summery and just the right amount of flirty. The top had an open back that showed just enough skin to feel romantic. The matching skirt sat perfectly around her waist, flowing gently with every step.

Behind her, Daniella appeared in the mirror’s reflection. “You look like an angel. He’s not gonna know what hit him.”

Y/N turned toward the mirror again, pressing her lips together, then swiping on a warm-toned gloss. “I just want it to feel like… me. Not like I’m trying too hard. Not like I’m pretending.”

Daniella smiled. “Then it will.”

She opened the front door slowly. Rafe was already halfway up the path.

He wore a plain white t-shirt and a pair of charcoal gray shorts, sunglasses hooked at his collar, his hair slightly tousled. It was simple, effortless. But there was something in the way he moved, the relaxed confidence, the quiet steadiness in his eyes that made her breath catch before she even stepped outside.

Y/N stepped out into the morning sun, her eyes finding his like muscle memory. “Hi.”

“Hey,” he said, voice low and easy, leaning in and pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Wow,” he murmured near her ear, pulling back just enough to meet her eyes. “You look incredible.”

She felt heat rise to her cheeks, but her smile didn’t falter. “Thanks.”

He nodded toward the sleek black car behind him, “You ready?”.

“As I’ll ever be,” she said, trying to sound steady, even as her pulse ticked faster. He walked her to the car, opening the passenger door like it was second nature. Not showy, just thoughtful. His hand hovered at the small of her back as she climbed in, warm through the fabric of her skirt.

Once he was in on the driver’s side, he glanced over at her again slower this time. Like he was just now letting himself take her in.

“You look..” he started again, eyes narrowing slightly, like he was teasing himself more than her. “Wow.”

She gave him a look. “You already said that.”

“I know,” he said, smirking a little. “Couldn’t help it.”

Y/N laughed under her breath and turned toward the window, smiling like an idiot. Then she turned back. “You know, you’re not supposed to be this charming this early in the morning.”

He grinned, one hand already on the wheel. “You haven’t even seen my real moves yet.”

“Oh?” she raised a brow.

“You’ll know when you see them,” he said, pulling out onto the road. “But fair warning, I play dirty. Especially when I want someone to like me.”

Y/N gave him a long look, then rolled her eyes with a smile. “Mission accomplished.”

That made him glance at her and something flickered behind his eyes. Like he wanted to say more. Maybe he would.

As the road curved along the coast and the first hints of the ocean glinted between the trees, Y/N squinted toward the horizon, then glanced back at Rafe.

“So… this date,” she said, dragging out the words as she glanced at him. “The card said ‘Let’s chase the rush together.’ That’s either really exciting… or really terrifying.”

Rafe smiled, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel. “Little mystery never hurt anyone.”

She turned toward him a bit more. “Should I be scared?”

He glanced at her, serious for just a beat. “Do you trust me?”

Her gaze lingered on his, steady. “Yeah,” she said quietly. “I do.”

That smile returned, softer this time. “Then you’ve got nothing to be scared of.”

They didn’t say anything else for a second,the moment stretching just enough to feel real. The kind of silence that didn’t need filling.

Then she smirked. “But if I end up clinging to you screaming, you’re not allowed to make fun of me.”

“No promises,” he said, but the warmth in his voice made it clear, he wouldn’t mind at all

She laughed, shaking her head. “Seriously though, ‘chase the rush’? That could mean anything. Are we zip-lining into the ocean? Jet skiing into a whirlpool?”

Rafe glanced at her, sunglasses still hooked at his collar, eyes glinting. “You’ll see.”

She narrowed her eyes. “You’re enjoying this.”

“A little,” he admitted. “But also? I think you’ll love it.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, but the smile tugging at her lips was real. “You better not be bluffing.”

He tilted his head, gaze flicking to her and lingering for half a second longer than necessary. “You don’t strike me as someone who scares easy.”

“I don’t,” she said. “But I do like to know if I’m about to be flung off a cliff.”

“No cliffs,” he promised. “Just… trust.”

Y/N shifted slightly in her seat, fingers brushing her skirt. “Can I tell you something kind of... embarrassing?”

Rafe glanced over at her, brows raised just a little, but his voice was steady. “Always.”

She hesitated. “When I didn’t see my name on that first group date card? I don’t know. I felt stupid for how much it got to me. I knew not everyone would get picked, obviously. But I guess I just— I don’t know..” she let out a breathy laugh, “I felt disappointed. Like maybe I wasn’t on your radar the way I thought I was.”

He didn’t interrupt. Just let her keep going.

“I guess I just wanted some kind of sign that you… saw me. And when I didn’t get it, I started second-guessing everything.”

Rafe’s fingers tapped once on the wheel before he looked over, eyes softer than before.

“I did see you,” he said quietly. “That’s exactly why you weren’t on that group date.”

Y/N blinked. “What?”

He smirked a little, eyes flicking back to the road. “Because I didn’t want to share you. Not in a group setting. I wanted this, us, today. Real time. Without distractions.”

She went quiet, warmth blooming under her skin. “Okay… stop. You’re gonna make me blush.”

He grinned, glancing sideways. “Mission very much accomplished.”

The car dipped lower, winding down toward a hidden stretch of coastline. As the trees thinned and the beach came into view, soft sand, open sea, and a small setup of boards and towels tucked near the dunes, Y/N’s breath caught slightly.

“Wow,” she murmured.

Rafe pulled the car to a stop and turned off the engine, glancing over at her with a grin.

“You told me you loved the water,” he said, nodding toward the waves. “So I figured... why not start where I feel at home?”

Her brow lifted, curious. “You surf?”

“Charleston, remember?” he said, flashing a quick smile. “Grew up chasing waves before I ever thought about chasing roses.”

She let out a soft laugh. “So this is your way of showing off?”

He shrugged, playful. “Not showing off just trying to impress you in the most low-key, kind of way.”

She grinned. “Well... consider me curious.”

“Then let’s hit the water.”

The wetsuits were half-zipped, boards propped upright in the sand. Y/N sat on a wooden bench just outside the beach shack, fingers twisting her damp hair into a bun before it slipped again.

Behind her, Rafe strolled over, slowing when he noticed her struggling.

“You want a hand?” he asked.

She glanced back, giving him a sceptical look. “You know how to do this?”

He crouched beside her, easy smile in place. “I’ve got two little sisters. Hair emergencies used to be a regular thing in our house.”

That earned a small laugh from her. “So you’re telling me you’re qualified?”

“I mean, I survived middle school mornings with a brush and a hair tie. I’ve got decent odds.”

She gave a mock sigh and tilted her head toward him. “Alright. Show me what you’ve got.”

He carefully took the hair tie from her wrist and gathered her hair, fingers moving with a quiet sort of ease.

“Wow,” she murmured. “You actually know what you’re doing.”

“Don’t sound so surprised.”

She shrugged, a smile tugging at her mouth. “You don’t give off strong hair-braiding energy.”

“Well, I try to keep people guessing.”

A pause settled between them, comfortable. His knuckles brushed the back of her neck as he worked, and she sat a little straighter without meaning to.

“There,” he said after a moment, tying it off neatly. “Should hold up at least until the wipeouts start.”

She turned to face him, their eyes meeting at close range. “Thanks.”

He nodded, lingering just a second longer than he needed to. “Anytime.”

Then she stood, smoothing her wetsuit. “Okay, braid boy. Let’s see how you are on a board.”

He grinned. “Alright, show-off. Let’s go.”

The water was cooler than expected, but not shocking. Y/N shrieked as the first wave lapped over her knees, the hem of her wetsuit darkening instantly.

Rafe was already ankle-deep, board tucked under one arm, turning to grin at her over his shoulder. “Come on! This is the easy part.”

Y/N raised a brow, lifting her board like it weighed twice as much. “Right, because balance has always been my strong suit.”

“Balance takes focus,” he said with a grin. “And maybe a little bit of pretending you know what you’re doing.”

She gave him a look. “You’re full of something, that’s for sure.”

He laughed, slowing as she caught up. “Alright, surf school 101. Start on the sand. I want to see your form first before we take on baby waves.”

“You mean humiliating warm-ups in front of you? Sounds dreamy.”

But she followed, dropping her board and mimicking his movements as he demonstrated. Palms flat. Chest up. Feet staggered.

“Like this?” she asked, squinting down at herself.

“Almost,” he said, stepping behind her.

She felt him before she saw him, the shift in the air, the quiet heat of him close behind her. His voice dipped low, the edge of teasing gone, replaced with something slower, warmer. “Try keeping your weight here,” he murmured, gently nudging her elbow into place.

Y/N swallowed. Her pulse jumped. Not from nerves, exactly, but from the way his hand lingered, the warmth of him just at her back.

She turned her head slightly, eyes finding his just over her shoulder.

His gaze held hers for a beat too long. “You’re tense.”

“You’re close,” she said, breathier than intended.

His smile tugged higher, amused but not mocking. “Can’t help it,” he said softly. “You’re kind of distracting.”

She glanced up at him over her shoulder, a small smile tugging at her mouth. “So what happens now, coach?”

He met her eyes, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. “Now?” he said, his voice just a little softer. “Now I give you some luck.”

And before she could answer, he leaned in and kissed her. Soft, certain. Just long enough to make her forget her footing, just short enough to leave her chasing it.

When he pulled back, his forehead nearly brushed hers.

“For luck,” he repeated, quieter this time.

Her cheeks flushed. “That’s cheating.”

He grinned as he stepped back. “Not if it works.”

She turned away, heart thudding, trying to reset her stance but her balance wasn’t the only thing off anymore. Not even close.

“Okay,” she managed, focusing back on the board. “I think I got it.”

“Yeah,” he said quietly, watching her. “I think you do.”

Ten minutes later, they were in the water, boards bobbing beside them, the steady pulse of the waves rolling in around their ankles. Rafe moved with calm ease, like he belonged there. Y/N.. less so.

“Alright, when the wave starts to lift you, that’s your moment,” he called gently from a few feet away. “Paddle, then pop up.”

She nodded, bracing herself. The next wave came. She paddled, tried to stand -

And wiped out instantly.

The ocean flipped her like a coin, water rushing up her nose. She surfaced with a gasp, blinking against the sun, hair stuck to her face.

Rafe was already beside her. “Hey, hey,” he said, laughing softly but checking her face. “You good?”

“Think I swallowed half the ocean,” she said, breathless.

“You’ll build immunity,” he grinned. Then, without thinking, he reached out and gently pushed a few damp strands of hair away from her cheek.

Y/N stilled slightly at the touch, and their eyes met, a pause in the middle of all the motion. Quiet, but full.

“You’re fine,” he said, voice softer now. “You’re doing great.”

She gave a half-smile, still catching her breath. “Not sure that counts as standing.”

“You got up,” he said simply. “That’s the hard part.”

She let out a shaky laugh and pushed her hair back again. “Alright. Again?”

He nodded. “Absolutely.”

They paddled out side by side. A new wave rolled in, smaller this time. She caught it, stood, and managed to stay upright just long enough to feel the wind cut across her skin before she dropped back into the water.

When she popped back up, laughing, he was already next to her again.

“That felt almost real!” she said.

“It was real,” he said, grinning. “You’re getting there.”

They floated for a second, shoulder to shoulder, boards drifting closer. She looked at him again, wet hair, sun on his skin, that steady kind of warmth in his eyes and the words came out without thinking.

“Thanks for doing this.”

He met her gaze. “You told me you love the water.”

Y/N smiled. “I didn’t mean nearly drowning in it, but... yeah. This means a lot.”

A beat passed. He looked like he was about to say something else but then another wave started rolling in.

The water was calmer now, waves mellowing into a soft rhythm that pulsed around their legs. Y/N had waded in up to her hips, her braid damp from earlier wipeouts, her wetsuit unzipped halfway to reveal the edge of her bikini top. The ocean breeze played with the loose strands of hair that had slipped free, and her eyes never left Rafe as he rode the last wave in.

He cut cleanly across the water, graceful and sure, before stepping off his board and catching sight of her.

“Still watching me?” he asked, breathless as he approached, board trailing behind him.

“Someone’s gotta judge your form,” she said, the corner of her mouth curving.

“Oh yeah?” He slowed as he reached her, water swirling around their waists. “And?”

Her eyes flicked down his chest, still dripping, then back up. “You pass.”

“Barely?” he teased.

She shrugged, like she wasn’t already smiling. “You might need to prove it again.”

Rafe didn’t answer not with words. He reached out, brushing a damp strand of hair off her cheek with a touch that lingered. Then his hand slid to her waist, warm even in the cool water, drawing her in.

Their bodies bumped gently in the current, salt clinging to skin.

And then he kissed her.

Soft at first, slow and exploratory. Her hands slid up over his shoulders, fingers curling at the nape of his neck. He tasted like sea and adrenaline, sun-warmed skin and the quiet tension of something that had been building all day.

Her breath caught when his thumb brushed under the edge of her bikini top, not possessive, just familiar, like he already knew her shape.

The waves rocked gently around them, water lifting and falling at their sides, and it felt like they were suspended in it — this little pocket of ocean and heat and want.

When they finally broke apart, she was breathless.

“I thought this was supposed to be a surf lesson,” she said, lips still grazing his.

He smiled, hand still on her waist. “Call it... extra credit.”

The tide had eased into a slower rhythm, each wave rolling in with a hush like it had nowhere else to be. Y/N stood barefoot at the edge of the shoreline, toes sinking into damp sand, her wetsuit unzipped halfway down her stomach to reveal the edge of her bikini top. Her braid clung damply to her back, salt still on her skin.

Out in the water, Rafe paddled hard, then popped up, smooth and effortless, catching the swell just before it broke. He rode it clean, low and controlled, the board tilting beneath him with practiced confidence.

Y/N watched, shading her eyes with one hand, a small smile tugging at her lips. When he hit the final stretch of the wave and hopped off with a neat, easy dive, she gave a single clap, shaking her head with a quiet laugh under her breath.

“Alright, I’m impressed,” she murmured to no one.

He came up grinning, pushing his hair back, scanning until his eyes found hers. From the water, he raised a brow like he’d caught the tail end of her reaction. She didn’t say anything, just tilted her head and shrugged like, yeah, okay �� you’re good.

He grinned wider, already moving back toward shore.

And from where she stood, the sea in front of her, him swimming back, that look still on his face, something about it felt good. Easy. Like maybe she’d been waiting for a moment like this without realizing it.

The afternoon light stretched long across the beach, still warm but softening, the kind of light that made the ocean sparkle like it was holding onto summer. Y/N walked beside Rafe, hand in his, the sand cool and powdery under their feet, the rhythmic hush of the waves a steady backdrop to their quiet moment.

Just ahead, nestled in a shallow dip between two dunes, was the kind of setup that felt too pretty to be real, a low wooden table surrounded by striped pillows and folded blankets, a woven basket off to one side. Candles flickered inside hurricane glass jars, and a small bottle of champagne sweated in an ice bucket.

Y/N let out a quiet breath. “Oh my.. this is adorable.”

Rafe glanced over at her, their fingers still loosely intertwined. “Yeah?”

She nodded, a smile playing at her lips. “Yeah.”

“Come on,” he said softly. “Let’s enjoy it.”

They sank down onto the cushions, still a little salt-kissed from the ocean. Rafe reached for the bottle and popped the cork with a clean twist, the sound light and easy. He poured two glasses and handed her one, their fingers brushing.

Rafe poured carefully, handing her a glass before lifting his own.

“To us.” he said, voice a little softer now.

Y/N’s gaze met his, steady.

“To us,” she repeated, tapping her glass gently against his.

They clinked glasses, they sipped and the silence that followed was the comfortable kind. Rafe reached into the basket and pulled out the containers, spreading them between them.

“Tacos, fruit, little bit of everything,” he said.

Y/N peeked inside, lips already curving. “Okay, you just won major points.”

He laughed softly. “I figured it was safer than trying to impress you with my cooking.”

She took a bite, nodding with clear approval. “This is exactly what I needed.”

They ate slowly, passing the fruit between them, brushing fingers now and then small grazes that lingered longer each time. The stories turned quieter, less about the past and more about the now. He watched her laugh over a piece of mango, eyes crinkled, sunlight catching the curve of her lips.

When she leaned back on her hands, eyes on him, something shifted.

Rafe mirrored her without thinking, elbow brushing hers as he settled beside her. He turned toward her slightly, gaze dragging from her mouth to her eyes and back again.

She caught it. Didn’t look away.

“What?” she asked, voice low, teasing.

“You have no idea what you do to me,” he said, just above a murmur, but there was no joking in it.

Her smile curved slow. “I think I’m starting to.”

Their knees touched. Then his fingers reached, brushing a piece of hair from her shoulder, fingertips skating lightly along the exposed skin at her collarbone. The kind of touch that wasn’t about fixing anything, just feeling.

Her breath hitched.

Without a word, Rafe reached for her waist and gently tugged, guiding her up then shifting her into his lap like it was the most natural thing in the world. His hands settled on her hips, steady, warm.

Y/N’s arms looped around his neck, knees bracketing his thighs now. She looked down at him, playful, flushed, and just a little breathless.

Rafe leaned in like he couldn’t help it anymore. Their mouths didn’t meet at first, just hovered. Close enough to taste the possibility.

“Are you gonna kiss me again,” she asked, “or just keep looking at me like that?”

His lips brushed hers, not quite a kiss more like a dare.

“Depends,” he whispered. “You want slow… or do you want me to forget the cameras are even here?”

That made her laugh, soft and low before closing the gap with a kiss that wasn’t slow at all.

It was heat and salt and want. His hand slid up her back, drawing her closer until her chest was flush to his, her fingers curling in his shirt like she needed something to hold onto. He kissed her like they were alone on the planet like the moment had been waiting for them to catch up.

When they finally broke apart, lips swollen, cheeks flushed, they didn’t say anything right away. Just breathed, still tangled in each other, like neither of them was ready to pull back.

Rafe smiled against her temple. “You’re trouble, you know that?”

Y/N grinned, curling a little closer. “Only the good kind.”

And he kissed her again just because he could.

The sun hovered just above the horizon, casting everything in that soft golden wash that made the world feel quieter – slower. The ocean glinted with ribbons of orange and rose gold, each wave reflecting the sky.

Y/N and Rafe sat nestled on a blanket near the edge of the dunes, a little distance from their now-empty picnic setup. She leaned back into him, her body relaxed against his chest, his arms wrapped around her like it was second nature. He rested his chin lightly on her shoulder, his breath warm near her ear.

They didn’t talk. Not yet. The quiet was full, but not heavy just comfortable.

Y/N tilted her head slightly toward his. “We’re gonna blame the champagne if I get emotional, right?”

Rafe let out a soft laugh, brushing his nose along the curve of her jaw. “Deal. Champagne… and sunsets. Dangerous combo.”

She smiled, fingers threading with his over her stomach where his arms held her close. “It’s just… nice, you know? To not feel like I have to talk or impress or perform.”

“You don’t,” he said quietly. “You never have to do anything but just… be here.”

Her eyes fluttered shut for a second, letting that settle in her chest.

She shifted slightly, turning in his arms until they were almost face to face, her legs drawn up between them. Her fingers moved up, slowly combing through the back of his hair, soft gentle strokes that made him close his eyes for half a second.

When he opened them again, she was watching him, brows slightly raised in curiosity.

“I really like you,” he said, voice low, not shy just honest.

She smiled, soft and slow. “Do you?”

He leaned in, pressing a small, lingering kiss to her lips. “Mm-hmm. I do.”

Her thumb brushed along the side of his neck as she whispered, “I think I like you a little bit.”

He raised a brow, playful. “Just a little bit?”

“Mm-hmm,” she teased.

“Yeah?” His voice was warm, a quiet smile spreading across his lips.

And then he kissed her again, deeper this time. Her hand stayed tangled in his hair, his arms tightening gently around her like he didn’t want to let go.

When they finally pulled apart, they were still nose to nose, foreheads nearly touching, breath mingling in the last golden light of the day.

After the make-out session, Y/N rested against Rafe’s side. One hand in his lap, gently tracing the veins along his forearm. Her fingertips moved slowly, following each line with quiet curiosity, like she was memorizing him by touch, the warmth of his skin, the strength beneath it, the way he didn’t flinch or pull away, just let her.

Rafe glanced down at her hand on his, then back at her face. She was focused, soft in the way she always was when she thought no one was watching.

“Comfortable?” he asked, voice low.

She smiled without looking up. “Very.”

The silence between them wasn’t really silent it held the sound of waves, a gull overhead, and that hush that happens when two people know they’re not in a rush to leave.

Then Rafe shifted slightly, reaching behind him to grab something from under the edge of the blanket. When he turned back, the familiar red rose was in his hand — bright against the soft dusk tones.

Y/N sat up just enough to meet his eyes, her hand falling to rest lightly on his knee.

Rafe’s gaze didn’t waver. “Today felt... easy. But also kind of electric? You were open, fun, honest and I think I saw more of you than I have of most people in a month.”

He paused, thumb brushing the edge of her knee as he held out the rose between them.

“I want more of that. Of you. So…” He smiled. “Y/N, will you accept this rose?”

A beat. Then her mouth curved gently, eyes never leaving his. “Yeah. I will.”

Rafe leaned in, meaning to kiss her cheek but she turned just enough to meet him, lips catching lips, soft and easy.

She tucked the rose carefully beside her on the blanket and leaned back into him, his arm curling around her waist. Her head found its place on his shoulder again, and they stayed that way, limbs tangled, breath synced, skin still buzzing from everything and nothing.

The sky above stretched into early violet, fading toward something darker.

Confessional – Rafe

“This might’ve been my favorite date so far. And not just because of the surfing.” He pauses like he’s about to say more, then smirks, smile deepening.

“She’s got this way of looking at you, like she already knows what you’re thinking. And then laughs like she doesn’t take any of it too seriously. I don’t know... I think I’m already a little wrapped around her finger.”

“And the craziest part? I don’t even mind.”

He exhales, sitting back slightly, eyes still soft. “I could’ve stayed on that beach with her all night.”

Confessional — Y/N

“I can’t stop smiling. Which is ridiculous, I know, but… it felt like real life today. It didn’t feel like a first date. It felt like something I’ve done before. Or something I want to keep doing.” She let out a soft laugh.

THE NEXT DAY

Sunlight filtered through the lemon trees, casting soft shadows across the stone patio. The girls had sprawled across lounge chairs and picnic blankets with oversized mugs of coffee and half-eaten bowls of fruit and granola in front of them. A low speaker played something mellow and easy. Someone had lit a citronella candle that flickered lazily in the breeze.

Y/N sat cross-legged on a cushion, tracing her finger around the rim of her mug, looking entirely too content not to be interrogated.

Alyssa was the first to break. “Are you gonna make us beg, or?”

Y/N smirked behind her mug. “Beg for what?”

“You’re glowing. You’ve been glowing since you walked back in,” Kayla said, laughing.

Daniella, lying on her stomach with her chin propped on her arms, glanced up. “She’s not even trying to hide it.”

Y/N gave them a mock innocent look. “Hide what?”

“Oh my god,” Kayla groaned, flipping onto her side dramatically. “You had your date. With Rafe. On the beach. Alone. Start talking.”

Y/N bit her bottom lip, a little too pleased. “It was… really good. Better than good even.”

The girls collectively lost it. Laughter. Pillow nudges. A chorus of “We knew it!”

Alyssa sat up. “Details, please.”

“It was…” Y/N’s voice softened, eyes drifting for a second. “Real. Just… us. Surfing, talking, messing around in the water.”

“Wait,” Alyssa said, sitting up straighter. “You surf?”

“Absolutely not,” Y/N said with a laugh. “Mostly I swallowed saltwater and embarrassed myself. But he tried to teach me.”

“He totally loved that,” Kayla said knowingly.

Y/N shrugged, cheeks warm. “He said he did.”

A beat passed.

Daniella raised a brow. “And?”

Y/N tilted her head. “And what?”

Alyssa leaned in. “Did you kiss him?”

Y/N just smiled into her coffee.

Kayla gasped. “YOU DID.”

Y/N gave a small, helpless laugh. “In the water.”

Daniella collapsed backward. “And the chemistry?”

Y/N’s cheeks went a little pink. “Let’s just say… the ocean wasn’t the only thing heating up.”

Alyssa tossed a strawberry at her. “Shut. Up.”

They all laughed again, the kind of easy, morning-after laughter that felt like friendship and sunscreen and too much sun. Somewhere in the background, a bee buzzed lazily past.

Daniella eventually glanced sideways. “Did he give you the rose?”

Y/N nodded slowly. “He did.”

The girls beamed.

“Well,” Kayla said, stealing a grape. “Let’s just say... if I were him, I would’ve too.”

“We officially have a frontrunner.”

Y/N rolled her eyes but didn’t deny it. Not even a little.

Then she glanced down at her hands, fingers brushing the side of her mug. “I know I’m smiling like an idiot, but... I really don’t want to be that girl. I don’t want to rub it in or make anyone feel bad. I know how much all of us want this, and you guys deserve it too. Honestly.”

Daniella leaned over and squeezed her hand. “We know that.”

“Seriously,” Y/N added, voice softer now. “I just... really hope you all get moments like that. You deserve to feel seen.”

“I’m just glad it’s with someone who actually gets it,” Alyssa said.

Kayla nodded. “And we’re rooting for you. No weird energy, just love.”

Y/N smiled, heart swelling. “I love you guys.”

“Love you too,” Daniella murmured.

Alyssa lifted her mug. “To good dates and even better friends.”

They clinked coffee mugs, bursting into laughter again. For a second, it didn’t matter who had a rose or not.

The second group date came and went, a whirlwind of cowboy boots, line dancing, and unexpected rhythm from girls who swore they’d never two-step. Laughter echoed through a converted barn lit with string lights, where boots scuffed the floor and hands found their way to hips between spins.

By the end of the night, the energy had settled into something quieter, sweeter.

The group date rose went to Daniella.

THE DAY OF THE ROSE CEREMONY

The heat clung to the afternoon like it had no plans to leave. Most of the girls were scattered around the back patio, sunglasses on, legs stretched out, half-lounging with iced drinks in hand when a voice called from inside:

“Jesse’s here!”

Chairs scraped. Flip-flops slapped against tile. In a matter of seconds, the living room buzzed.

Jesse stood in the middle of the room, hands in his pockets, that usual unreadable grin on his face.

“Hey ladies,” he said. “I know it’s been a big week. Two group dates, one-on-one, lots of emotions…”

Some nods. Some wary looks.

He smiled. “So Rafe thought, instead of waiting for the cocktail party to get more time with all of you, why not do something a little more fun?”

“He’s throwing a pool party.”

The room broke into surprised laughter. “Get your swimsuits ready,” Jesse added with a smirk. “He’ll be here soon.”

The music had already been turned up. Girls darted in and out of the bedrooms and bathrooms in a blur of bikini straps, cover-ups and lip gloss. The backyard sparkled, turquoise pool, pitchers of mocktails sweating on the table, beach balls drifting lazily in the water.

And then the sliding door opened.

Rafe stepped outside and the volume of every conversation dipped almost immediately.

He wore a short-sleeved linen shirt, the top few buttons undone to reveal just enough of his chest to be noticeable. Sunglasses perched on the bridge of his nose.

“Hope I didn’t keep you waiting,” he said, grinning.

That’s all it took, a rush of footsteps and laughter. A few girls surged toward him with excited greetings, arms thrown around his shoulders.

Zoe, predictably dramatic, didn’t stop at a hug, she leapt up and wrapped both arms and legs around him like a koala, like it was the most normal thing in the world. “Missed me?”

Rafe caught her with a quick, surprised laugh, hands steady at her waist. He offered Zoe a grin that was light, then gently lowering her back to the ground, the looked up at the rest with a soft shake of his head, “Glad to see the energy’s high already.”

The rest of the girls exchanged a few amused, and not-so-amused looks.

Y/N stood a little behind the front row of girls, shoulder to shoulder with Daniella. She wasn’t pushing forward, just watching. From behind his sunglasses, Rafe’s gaze swept the group until it landed on her.

He didn’t say anything. Just let the corner of his mouth lift and sent her a quick, subtle wink.

Her breath hitched, barely. No one else noticed. Just her. Just him.

Someone cranked the music a little louder. Drinks were passed around. Naomi started pouring something fizzy into plastic glasses.

“Okay!” Kayla called. “We need a toast before anyone starts pushing anyone in.”

Rafe raised his glass, the sunlight catching the rim. “To a day off with the best company I could ask for.”

The girls cheered, a happy clink of plastic cups echoing over the pool.

And just like that, the party officially began.

Rafe barely had time to finish his drink before Zoe pulled him toward one of the loungers near the pool, already launching into a conversation with a laugh and a flip of her hair.

A few feet away, Y/N had drifted toward a shaded corner with Alyssa, Daniella, Kayla and Zara, each of them holding onto drinks and dripping in SPF.

“So..” Daniella said “How are we feeling about today?”

“Besides slightly sunburned?” Y/N smirked, then hesitated, eyes flicking briefly toward the far side of the patio. “There’s just been... a bit of tension.”

“Still with Britt?” Alyssa asked.

“Yeah,” Y/N said, tracing the edge of her glass with her fingertip. “It’s not like we’re throwing drinks at each other or anything. It’s just.. weird. Off.”

Zara frowned slightly. “Did something happen?”

Y/N hesitated for a second, then nodded. “Sort of. The morning after the first group date… she made this comment about you being too sensitive after you went outside, like in a really dismissive way. I called her out on it.”

Zara blinked. “Wait, what?”

“Yeah,” Y/N said gently. “She said if someone can’t handle the pressure of this, they shouldn’t be here. I just.. couldn’t let that slide. I’m sorry I should’ve said something to you.”

Y/N exhaled slowly. “I didn’t want it to turn into drama, but it’s been tense since. I’ve been thinking maybe I should talk to her. Just clear the air.”

Zara gave a small, appreciative smile. “I might talk to her too. Not to confront her, I just... I don’t want to leave here with any loose threads either.”

“Thanks for standing up for me,” she added a beat later.

“Of course,” Y/N said. “I just hate the feeling of something lingering like that. I don’t need us to be best friends, but I don’t want it to get ugly either.”

Y/N spotted Britt by the cabana. Y/N took a breath, adjusted her sunglasses and walked over.

“Hey,” she said, keeping her tone neutral but not cold.

Britt glanced up. “Hey.”

“Can we talk for a sec?” Y/N asked, nodding toward a quieter corner of the patio.

Britt hesitated, then nodded her head and stood. “Sure.”

They stepped away from the buzz of the group, stopping near a shaded patch beneath the pergola where the breeze softened the heat.

Y/N folded her arms lightly across her chest. “I don’t want to make a big thing out of this, but… it’s been a little tense between us.”

Britt raised an eyebrow. “You think?”

Y/N exhaled through her nose, holding back the urge to snap. “I’m not here to argue. I just wanted to clear the air.”

Britt didn’t say anything at first. Just waited.

“That morning of the first group date,” Y/N continued, “what you said about Zara... it didn’t sit right with me. It felt harsh. She was hurting, and I just couldn’t pretend it was fine.”

Britt’s jaw ticked. “She was having a moment. I made a comment. That’s all.”

“And I get that,” Y/N said. “But it felt like more than that. Like you were minimizing what she was going through. You don’t have to agree with how she feels, but dismissing it like that? It wasn’t cool.”

Silence settled for a moment.

Britt looked away, eyes narrowing slightly. “I wasn’t trying to be cold. I just don’t have time for people falling apart every five minutes. This is hard for everyone.”

“I’m not saying it’s not,” Y/N said, her voice calm but firm. “But you don’t get to decide how someone else handles it.”

There was a long pause. The wind moved between them.

Finally, Britt exhaled. “Alright. You’ve said your piece.”

Y/N nodded once. “Yeah. I just didn’t want to pretend like nothing happened.”

Britt met her eyes, unreadable. “Noted.”

A beat.

“I don’t expect us to be friends,” Y/N added. “But I don’t want this to get uglier.”

Britt’s tone was cool. “Then don’t make it uglier.”

That one stung, not sharp, but firm. Final.

Y/N didn’t respond right away. She just nodded again, more to herself this time.

“Okay,” she said softly. “That’s all.”

She turned and walked away, her chest feeling heavier than before.

Y/N stood near the far end of the pool with Rafe, her drink balanced in her hand, but her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“You okay?” he asked gently, eyes scanning her face.

She gave him a half-smile, brushing her thumb over the condensation on her glass. “Yeah. Just – I don’t know. One of those days.”

Rafe studied her a moment longer, then tipped his heads toward the back gate. “Come on. Let’s walk for a sec.”

They slipped away from the crowd, weaving through the edge of the garden until the noise faded into a low hum. He found a shaded spot near the trees, just quiet enough to feel like a separate world and stopped there.

“You don’t have to tell me,” he said softly, “but I can tell something’s on your mind.”

Y/N exhaled and leaned against the trunk of a lemon tree, fingers fidgeting with her necklace. “It’s nothing major, just... girl stuff, I guess. There’s been some tension with Britt. I don’t really want to get into it because I’m not the type to badmouth someone –“ she paused, eyes flicking to his, “but it got under my skin today.”

Rafe didn’t interrupt, just watched her quiet, present.

“She said something that didn’t sit right with me,” Y/N added “And I stood up for someone else, but now things between us are just... weird. I don’t like the energy.”

His brows drew slightly, concern soft but real. “You don’t need to apologize for having a backbone.”

Y/N smiled faintly. “I know. I just.. I didn’t come here to fight with other girls. That is not who I am.”

Rafe stepped closer, hand brushing her waist in a slow, grounding touch. “You’re not. You’re the kind of person who stands up when it matters, and still worries about doing it kindly. That’s rare.”

She blinked at him, her voice smaller now. “Why are you so good at this?”

He grinned, warm and a little crooked. “I’ve got a thing for girls who lead with their heart.”

She laughed softly, the tension beginning to ease, and when his hand came to rest along her back, she leaned into it. He dipped his head slightly, close enough that their foreheads nearly touched.

“Still trouble,” she murmured, teasing, but her voice was quieter this time, vulnerable.

“And still wrapped around your finger,” he said, thumb brushing the hem of her cover-up.

She looked up at him, gaze soft, and for a moment they just stood there, close and still.

Then he kissed her slow and quiet, a reassurance more than anything else.

And when they returned to the party a few minutes later, the weight she’d been carrying felt a little lighter.

The patio had thinned out as some girls slipped inside to freshen up or grab another drink. Zara took a breath, “Can we talk?” she asked, voice steady but quiet.

Britt didn’t look up. “Didn’t realize we had anything left to say.”

Zara didn’t flinch. “You don’t have to like me. But you don’t get to treat me like I’m a weak just because I process things differently than you.”

That got Britt’s attention. She looked up slowly, brows arching. “Wow. Okay.”

“No—listen,” Zara said, voice tightening. “What you said the other day? About me not being cut out for this? That’s just you being a mean girl and for a second I was thinking maybe you were right.”

Britt rolled her eyes, sitting up straighter. “I didn’t say you weren’t cut out for it. I said if you can’t handle the pressure, maybe this isn’t the place.”

“Which is basically the same thing,” Zara said, her tone sharper now. “You don’t get to decide how someone should handle their emotions. I’ve been trying. I’ve shown up. I’ve been honest. That doesn’t make me fragile—it makes me human.”

A few heads were turning now, quiet glances from nearby girls, uncertain but watching.

Britt stood up, arms crossed. “You’re twisting my words. Everyone’s going through it. You don’t see the rest of us falling apart.”

Zara’s jaw clenched, and she blinked hard once. “You don’t know what people are going through. Just because someone isn’t falling apart in front of you doesn’t mean they’re fine.”

Britt scoffed, like it wasn’t worth her time.

Zara took a half-step back, eyes glassy but not breaking. “You act like you don’t care, but honestly? That’s arrogance and you being a mean person.”

And then, without turning, Zara muttered, “I’m done,” and walked off, shoulders stiff.

That’s when Rafe stepped out from the hallway, catching the tail end, Zara walking away, visibly shaken, Britt standing there with her jaw tight and unmoved.

Rafe didn’t say anything to Britt.

Instead, he followed the direction Zara had gone, leaving the noise behind.

Rafe found Zara near the garden, away from the noise. She didn’t see him at first, but when she did, she didn’t hide the tears welling in her eyes. He didn’t ask anything, just stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. She held on tight.

They talked in low voices, her words barely audible over the music drifting from the patio. Whatever was said between them, it ended with another hug. His hand rubbed gently along her back. She nodded once as he pulled away, and he gave her a quiet look before turning and walking back toward the house.

Britt hadn’t moved from the lounger.

When Rafe stepped into view, she straightened subtly, slipping her sunglasses to the top of her head and giving him a small smile too quick, too smooth.

“Hey,” she said lightly, like nothing had happened. “Didn’t expect you over here.”

He didn’t return the smile. “Can we talk?”

Her smile faltered, but she nodded. “Of course.”

He didn’t sit.

“I just spoke to Zara,” he said, voice even. “And I overheard enough before that to understand what’s been going on.”

Britt’s expression froze for half a second before she recovered, reaching for composure. “Look, if this is about—”

He held up a hand, stopping her.

“No spin. No explanation. I’ve seen the way you talk to people when you think they’re vulnerable. How quick you are to pull away when someone’s struggling.”

She looked off to the side, jaw tight.

“I didn’t expect that from you,” he said. “I thought there was more kindness in you. More awareness of how hard this experience can be. But the way you handled that? That’s not what I’m looking for.”

Her voice was lower now. “So that’s it?”

He nodded, steady. “This journey deserves people who lift each other up. And right now, I need to follow what I know is right. I’m walking you out.”

She stared for a beat, mouth parted like she might say something but she didn’t. Just set her drink down with a soft clink and stood.

“Guess that’s that,” she muttered.

He walked beside her, quiet, out through the open doors.

The evening air had cooled by the time the girls lined up on the rose ceremony platform, heels clicking softly on the stone. The tension was undeniable, the kind that quieted even the usual whispers.

Y/N stood near Daniella and Maya, the three of them already safe with roses from their dates, watching as Rafe stepped forward with the remaining flowers.

His eyes moved across the group, lingering in places just long enough to make hearts race.

“Tonight wasn’t easy,” he began. “You’ve all shown me different sides of yourselves, and I’m grateful for every conversation, every laugh even the hard moments. But I have to follow what feels real. So… here we go.”

He called the names one by one.

Leila. Naomi. Kayla. Alyssa. Sierra. Zara. Kelsey.

Each rose handed with a hug or a quiet “thank you,” leaving three women standing at the end.

Selene. Brianna. And the now-empty space where Britt once stood.

Jesse returned quietly to deliver the final rose.

Rafe took a breath, then looked up.

“Zoe.”

Zoe stepped forward slowly, visibly relieved.

That was it.

Selene’s smile was small but gracious, while Brianna looked stunned, like she hadn’t expected to be on the edge of goodbye. Hugs were exchanged, some tighter than others.

From the sidelines, Y/N glanced toward Daniella. Neither said anything, but the shift in the air was real.

The circle had grown smaller again. And everything ahead? Only more real.

To be continued...

the bachelor taglist: @xoxo4chrisss @serendippindots @akobx @wandabillywrites @drewsephrry @justdamnpeachy @thewackywriter @drewsphswife @astridwisp @carisd @itsamusical4lifee @ts1mp0ne @fairyjinn @chaotickittenanchor @sophiesmovingcastle5 @saviorcomplexrry @smutwzrd @destinymoena @alinavalentine @lumbiiii @xeneasworld @earth2azi @watashiwastarr @lilithblackkk @leather-n-velvet @asapkeepmerockyyy @fastlovela @acidfeens @wuluhwuhmaster @hrtshapedblg @stelleduarte @jae-n0 @xealia

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motherismotheringggg · 9 months ago

Text

SLOW BURN

okay wow my first public fic — i’m terrified so pls be kind but feedback is OF COURSE welcome!!

type: female reader x nicholas chaves x cooper koch

(^this is the greed they talked about in the bible 🤭)

tags/warnings: 18+; nsfw; smut lite; kissing; fingering; groping (i think that’s it!!)

word count: 7317 (i was gonna post it in parts but i changed my mind)

*used AI to help organize structure

pt.2 out now!!!!

pt.3 out now!!!!

⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️

You and your friend Vanessa laughed as you walked into the cafeteria of Camp White Water from a joke that had you both laughing since you both got ready and started heading toward the first day of camp counselor training.

This was your second summer of being a camp counselor at this month-and-a-half long sleep away camp. And you always looked forward to it, the leadership staff was always kind, the campers were actually not too bad and the other counselors were your favorite. All of the returners had become super close and it was super exciting to be reconnected with them when summer rolled around.

This year there were a few new counselors because of the amount of campers that were coming in this summer, particularly in your group. That being said, you were given two new co-counselors.

You and Vanessa were still in stitches about whatever joke had been continuing when you got closer to your assigned table, you noticed your name card with your name between two other name cards, one read “Nicholas Chaves” and the other “Cooper Koch”.

“Whoa..two news guys?” You were surprised, you expected to at least have another returner on your side, “Do they think I’m responsible enough to train two newbies?” you chuckled as you sat on the cafeteria bench.

“Well if they’re dumb and hot, send them over to the young eagles team, I’d love to have fresh meat”, Vanessa gestured to her table with Gene who was the oldest camp counselor and a bit of a gangly man who meant well but wasn’t exactly summer camp eye candy.

You both looked in his direction and giggled, “Hey Gene! You look ripped this summer. I’ll send her over to you in a second” you called out, causing Vanessa to laugh even harder.

As you both continued cackling in a room full of lively conversation, the group of new counselors walked in, it was tradition that the current counselors applaud them as a bit of a harmless hazing ritual.

You clapped and laughed with your friend as the newbies looked around excited but nervously for their name tags. In the middle of your giggling, you noticed two men stopped at your table and started settling in, “this must be them” you thought.

Copper was tall and broad. He had hazel brown eyes and deep brown curly hair. He was wearing a gray zip-up hoodie and tennis shorts and you could tell from his leg muscles that he was in good shape. He had soft features that made you feel immediately calm and at ease - safe almost.

Nicholas was the opposite, he had straight hair and darker eyes. His face was very chiseled, his jawline was impeccable. He had a defined and muscular physique, which stood out even when he’s dressed casually in his shorts and long sleeve college shirt.

He was also tall with broad shoulders but his muscles were more pronounced - a strong chest, and visible arm muscles that give him a commanding presence.

“Hey guys, I’m Y/N”! Cooper went for a handshake, which was too formal for you, without thinking you went in for a hug. You figured you’d get close through the summer like the rest of the counselors.

Cooper was caught off guard but quickly adjusted to the hug, Nicholas was a little reserved but even with just a side hug you felt his biceps take you in completely. They sat on either side of you and you started talking about your experience at the camp the group you’ll have this year.

The camp director gave some opening remarks and then the assistant director had you all start with those cringey ice breakers. He went around and gave out a stack of cards to each group that had random questions on it.

When he got your table, he said “Ah Y/N, happy to see you back again! Boys you’re in good hands, she’s a pro.” You playfully shooed him away to be humble. “I mean it, but you also have some star athletes next to you. Cooper and Nicholas were both finalists in the west end tennis conference and since you’re working on rec fit this year, it should be perfect!”

“Tennis boys huh?” you gestured to your co- counselors, “I knew those builds weren't for nothing” you jokingly nudged both of them in the side. Cooper giggled and you finally got Nick to crack a smile and loosen up.

The ice breakers were stupid but kind of fun and they opened up more conversation; “if you were a fruit, what fruit would you be?” turned into you three talking about your families, “what three things would you need on a deserted island” turned into talking about your favorite vacation spot and “what;s your morning routine” let the guys start to talk about their training which you found…hot. The way they describe conditioning and training completely hypnotized you, like you could understand it but just barely. And watching them interact was a real treat, Cooper was very funny and lighthearted but still very direct and expressive in his words. Nicholas was very sincere in everything and said it with such conviction, even if he was joking it came out so earnestly you thought he was being serious.

Later, for training you all got to wander the camp site as groups. The three of you found yourselves sitting on one of the picnic benches along the trail route, the ice was finally broken so the conversation flowed very casually.

It started to get a little warmer out, too warm for a hoodie so both you and Cooper took yours off. Cooper was wearing a tank top that revealed even more of his physique and you were wearing a stretchy tank top body suit. Realizing this was the first time they've seen your arms, they noticed you had a few tattoos and were both instantly intrigued. "You have tattoos?" Cooper asked, his voice more excited than you expected.

"Yeah, just a few!” You started pointing them out to Cooper while he walked around your body to get a closer look at each one. “I got this one with one of my friends, they are not quite matching but they’re similar” you went on.

Nicholas was also listening to you talk about your tattoos but he wasn’t as outwardly interested as Cooper was. He mostly just nodded in approval after you explained each tattoo. It wasn’t until you bent a certain way to show Cooper a different tattoo that your tennis skirt raised a little, revealing the very bottom of a tattoo on your thigh. "Is that… another one?" Nicholas asked, gesturing to your thigh, catching you off guard.

You blinked. "Oh, yeah," you replied, laughing lightly. "Good eye." You hadn’t expected him to notice that one—it was usually pretty hidden. But it wasn’t awkward and you were happy he actually spoke. “Yeah it’s just my zodiac constellation, I just thought it was cute, maybe a little stupid to get that tatted but I like it”

“I don’t think it’s stupid,” Nicholas replied, more confidently this time. Cooper nodded in agreement.

“In fact,” Nicholas stood up and took off his bookbag “As long as we’re showing off our sick ink…”. You and Cooper’s eyes widened, you had no idea what this man, who had been fairly silent this whole time, was about to show. He took off his shirt and revealed his perfect abs. They looked like they were chiseled from marble but also soft like flesh. You cleared your throat and gathered yourself. You glanced over at Cooper who was equally entranced by Nicholas’ body.

“What do you think?” Nicholas posed in front of you two and you both looked confused, “I thought we were just showing off tattoos, not seeing who’s built like an adonis” Cooper joked.

You laughed, “yeah, this is a summer camp so the chance to take off your shirt was coming soon enough” you added.

Nicholas laughed back, “no get closer, it’s there!” You and Cooper looked at each other and then got closer to his man’s perfect body and there it was, two small tattoos under both pecs, a smiley face and a frowny face.

‘Totally sick ink right?” Nicholas joked in a surfer voice, you and Cooper threw your heads back in laughter as you jokingly agreed. “It certainly is … ink on your skin,” Cooper added.

“They were stick-and-pokes I did in college just for fun, you can even feel the weird texture of them,” Nicholas said. Without missing a beat, he grabbed Cooper's hand and placed it on the small tattoo. You had to find a way to act normal about this but this was incredibly hot. Two gorgeous men essentially groping each other in the woods felt like something out of a fan fic.

Nicholas looked at you and said, “Don’t be shy, I don’t bite”, in a quiet gravely voice. You felt your shoulders drop and your eyes widened, internally you thought “what is happening right now??”

You used your finger tips to feel the tattoo but followed Cooper’s lead and also felt his chest too. Nicholas would glance down at you two feeling him with his breath hitching just a little. Cooper was into the moment, you were still taken aback. Before this moment could progress, the camp alarm blared calling us all back in for dinner.

For dinner, groups got to mix and mingle so you and Vanessa decided your groups should eat together. Dinner was fine, you were fine. It seemed odd that these two boys who were basically mute at the beginning of the day had this moment earlier with you and were now just so chill about it. But you were going to match their vibe and keep it lowkey.

After dinner, you were all texting and realized you wanted a sweet treat so you went off-site and ended up at this diner a few miles from the camp. You three sat in this round corner booth and just talked about each other.

It was getting progressively later and later in the night and you felt yourself getting tired. Cooper went to the bathroom before you all headed out and you instinctively rested your head on Nicholas’s shoulder. Completely forgetting what happened earlier and just needing a place to rest for a minute.

It took him no time to accommodate your needs and lift his arm up so you could properly get close. He pulled you close to his chest and rubbed your arm as you slightly drifted in his arms.

You all drove in your car there but Nicholas saw how tired you both were so he offered to drive. “Give daddy the keys” he gestured to you to throw them in his direction, “I’ll get us back safe”. You mentally noted that he called himself daddy and tossed him your keys. “You both should ride in the back seat because if you're up here yawning by me that could be dangerous”.

You and Cooper hopped in the back seat and again, you just wanted to lay down, so Cooper sat upright and you laid down with your head in his lap. He also wanted to make you feel comfortable so he started stroking your cheek and did that for the entire ride back to camp.

---

The next morning was Special Classes day, all the counselors would be in various groups to get trained on the specialized activities for the camp this summer. Swimming, archery, arts and crafts, home ec, etc., you were partnered with Nicholas in the swim group while Cooper took the archery class.

The sun beat down on the lake, making the water glisten. You all had been in and out of the water several times for various tests. Every time you glanced at Nick and noticed the way the water drops would sit in between the ridges of his abs you felt something electric in you.

“You all have done a fantastic job today,” the instructor addressed the group, “and we wrapped up earlier than I thought so that’s good. Feel free to go for a free swim or head out until your next activity.”

You and Nicholas non-verbally agreed to head out but not before the instructor asked you both to take some supplies to the first aid shed before you left out. You wrapped a towel around your body and Nicholas wheeled the cart of medical supplies.

When you got the shed, which was more of a small cottage, you held open the door while Nicholas wheeled the items in. He started putting them away while you just stood and watched. Watching the way his back muscles moved with every action, the way he towered next to the shelves and how broad he looked from the back.

He turned to see you checking him out and chuckled to himself, “do you mind helping me out a little?” a smirk brandishing on his face.

You didn’t hear what he asked you when you were in your trance so he chuckled again, a little louder this time, “they’re getting lower in the wagon, could you hand them to me?” he asked again.

“Oh my bad – yeah of course! Sorry, I was just thinking about dinner or something” you tried to cover your tracks in the worst way possible, “or ‘something’ is right” he retorted back, you felt your face get hot.

When you were finished putting the boxes away, you wheeled the cart to where the other storage containers were and joined him back in the main room. The shed was so warm so neither one of you wanted to leave. Nick went to sit down in a chair by the desk in the room. There were papers on top of the chair he went to move but when he picked them up he got a paper cut.

“Shit,” he hissed “oh my god” your eyes widened. It wasn’t a lot of blood but you could yell it hurt because he kept hissing in pain. At one point he even hissed your name asking you to grab him a paper towel and you felt your heart skip a little.

He sat on the chair while you cleaned him up and gave him a bandaid. Once you got him squared away and you put the kit back on the shelf, you just kind of stood in front of him. There was nowhere else to go and not much to say.

He grabbed your hand, closing the distance between you two, pulling you toward him “the old ‘nurse me back to health’ trope huh? What a classic” he joked in a low gravely voice

“You’re so annoying”, you whined jokingly pushing away, as his one hand placed your arm on his shoulder and the other wrapped around your waist.

You caressed the side of his face with one hand, contemplating if this was really about to happen. You just met this guy yesterday - but you have already felt his pecs, cuddled with him in public and let him call himself daddy.

You leaned down and hovered in front of his mouth, “don’t make me beg” he whispered as he moved closer to plant his lips on yours. It started slow but very deliberate, he was soft but sturdy, your knees felt weak and you could feel him holding you up with the strength of his arm alone.

He took more initiative in the kiss and started taking control, his tongue now fighting for dominance in your mouth and he pulled you down into a straddling position on to his lap, never breaking apart. The more intense he got the more inhaled and exhaled sharply, the breathing made it all so much hotter. He started kissing down your neck, using his hands to guide which way you leaned your head to receive him.

He got to your ear and whispered , “I wanted you the second I saw you”, and started kissing and licking your collarbone, “you’re so perfect” he said into your neck before biting and sucking at various spots. While he worked on a particular part of your neck – biting and sucking, making you moan his name. He started to lower your bathing suit strap to reveal your soft wet breasts.

He looked at you as he kissed down your chest and gently placed it in his mouth, sucking and licking at the nipple making you thrash in excitement. You moaned his name out loud again, he switched to the other breast with the same licking and sucking motion while using his hand to play with the nipple of the other. You felt a rush when he moaned, it sent a vibration through your body that you felt it below.

He was so attuned with your body, he knew you could feel the excitement pooling down there and went to feel you over the bathing suit down there. Your back arched the second he touched you, your breath shaky. You locked lips again as he continued to graze it.

Just as you went to reach down to feel him hard through his trunks, the camp alarm sounded, calling everyone back to the main area. The rudeness of the alarm made you two separate and understand what you were really doing.

When you both come down from the euphoric feeling of being wrapped up in another stranger, you pulled your straps back up to cover yourself and he helped you off him. He pushed the chair back, you grabbed the towels both of you came in with and left, not saying a word.

When you joined the group again, you had to sit with your team. You and Nicholas found Cooper and sat on either side of him, typically you had been in the middle of them two but you needed a little distance from Nicholas at the moment.

“You guys are still in your swim stuff? I saw you guys wrapped up earlier than us” Cooper genuinely asked

There was a pause that needed to be filled, you went to speak but Nicholas also started, you both stopped and almost started again and then stopped fully and there was another long pause

“Oh no that's fine, that’s totally how normal people answer a question” Cooper said sarcastically.

---

The next day of training, returners and new counselors had separate schedules. This was perfect because after yesterday, it’s not that you were avoiding Nicholas but you certainly needed a break and time to process how this all progressed so quickly.

That night, in the cafeteria certain counselors signed up for different kitchen shifts, you and Cooper got put on clean up duty. When dinner was wrapping up Nicholas hung around for as long as possible. It wasn’t weird, there was an energy between you two but mostly he just hung around to talk to Cooper. You kept a distance and participated in the conversation from afar.

Cooper went to the back to handle the trashtrash and you were clearing off tables. Nicholas stood up to leave and called you over. You didn't know what he was going to say, was he going to ask you why haven't we talked? Does he want to have sex? Does he have a girlfriend? Every thought ran through your mind as you walked over to him from a few tables over.

You got to him and asked “what’s up?” he paused, stood up and looked down at you. He used his fingers to lift your face in his direction and planted another kiss on you right then and there, without a care in the world. His lips were soft and plush, you felt yourself melt into him from how smooth it was.

“Let me know if we’re doing another sweet treat run tonight” he said just a few inches from your mouth and walked out.

You were floored, who is this man? That kiss was so comfortable, as if you were his and he was yours. It felt natural and right to him.

You wiped down the counters while Cooper stocked and organized supplies for the next day’s meals, the silence between them was oddly comfortable. From the second you met them both Nicholas was a little harder to read and you felt like you had to do a little more to get his attention. Not that you necessarily wanted his attention but with Cooper, he immediately opened up. He was warm, comforting and quiet. He just felt safe.

When everything was done, you and Cooper sat on top of a table while the floors dried and ate ice cream. You couldn’t help but smile at him as he sat across from you criss-cross apple sauce style, him being easily over 6 ft and sitting to make himself look small was so endearing.

The more you talked the smaller the distance grew between you two. Your knees were touching and he was stroking your leg as you both continued talking, doting into each other’s eyes.

He glanced at you, a small smile playing at his lips. “You know, you’re probably the most beautiful person I’ve met.”

You raised an eyebrow, laughing softly. “Where’s this coming from?”

He finished his cone just in time to place both hands on your legs while he answered. His hands were large and strong, with veins subtly tracing the surface, hinting at a quiet power beneath his skin. The rough texture of his palms contrasted with the smoothness of his long fingers, which moved with a practiced, almost careful grace. There was something magnetic about the way they flexed, confident and capable, as if they knew exactly how to hold the world—firm, yet gentle.

“Just being honest. You’ve been, like… really good to me since day one. Everyone here is nice but you and Nick have made me feel comfortable here”, he said through a smile.

His words made your heart skip, but you tried to play it cool. “I mean, I hope you gave Nicholas thanks like this too, don’t want him feeling left out.” you let out a laugh and so did he.

“No, but it’s different with you,” he said, and this time, he didn’t look away. “I was nervous as hell coming here, and I wasn’t expecting anyone to make it easier, but you did. I didn’t feel out of place with you around. You’re, like, ridiculously sweet and also…” He trailed off, eyes scanning your face like he was debating how much to say. “You’re also, like, the most attractive person here.”

Suddenly you were in the same position you were in with Nicohlas in the shed, a moment of silence where nothing needed to be said, only action needed to be taken.

Copper leaned forward and quietly said, “I’m gonna kiss you now”

He leaned in slowly, his breath warm against your lips as he hesitated for a moment, savoring the closeness. His kiss started soft, tentative, like he was afraid to rush it, each movement deliberate and tender. His lips were gentle against yours, almost shy, and you could feel the slightest tremble in his touch. But as you pressed closer, he exhaled, letting go of his nerves, and the kiss deepened naturally. He found his rhythm, and what began as slow and cautious soon turned into something warmer, more fluid, their lips moving together with a sweet, unhurried certainty.

You felt his one hand on your thigh and the other slipped under your shirt, warm and steady against your skin. His fingers curled against your side, massaging gently as he explored the curve of your waist. Slowly, he moved his hand upward, caressing your breasts with a careful touch, his thumb tracing soft, deliberate circles until your body relaxed into his hands.

'Is this okay?' Cooper pulled away from the kiss, his forehead resting lightly against yours as he searched your eyes, his voice soft and filled with concern. The tenderness in his question only made you want him more."

You nodded, your breath hitching as his lips found yours again, this time with more confidence. His hand slipped back under your shirt, his movements unhurried but more intentional now, as though he wanted to savor every second of the moment. His thumb brushed across your skin, sending little sparks through your body, and you leaned into his touch, your hands finding their way to his hair. You tugged gently, and he let out a low, quiet groan that only made you pull him closer.

Cooper’s kisses grew deeper, more fluid as he relaxed into it, his earlier nervousness melting away. His hand continued to explore, fingertips dancing across your body as if he was learning every inch of you. There was something almost reverent in the way he touched you—gentle but filled with intent, as though he couldn’t believe this moment was real. He pulled you closer, his lips moving from your mouth to your jaw, then to your neck, his breath warm and steady against your skin as he took his time, each kiss slower than the last.

'You’re incredible,' he whispered against your neck, his voice rough with affection. The way he said it, so soft and unassuming, made your heart swell, and in that moment, you knew that every touch, every kiss, was laced with more than just desire.

You felt wrap his hands around you and he shifted his position to lay you down gently on the table. He continued kissing you on your neck, whispering praises softly in your ear while his hands smoothly roamed your body, “you’re so perfect”, “I need you”, “you’re a goddess”.

You felt his hand go lower and lower on your body until he got to your waistband. He pulled from the passionate kiss to look at you, he thought you were so beautiful in this moment. Frazzled from his passion, your eyes begging him to keep going. His fingers slipped into your shorts, but stopped, “are you sure?” Cooper asked you again, wanting to make sure you felt safe.

You pulled him down on top of you to kiss again and pushed his hand down so his fingers just grazed over the clit. His fingers continued to massage your area, with each pass you moaned into his mouth. Your kisses became deeper and frantic as you struggled to keep from completely unraveling from him.

“Let go for me baby”, he said with his forehead resting on yours. Before you could catch your breath his hand went lower and he angled his fingers at your entrance, your back arched in anticipation.

He pulled back completely so he could see your reaction to his fingers slipping inside if you. He traced around your entrance a little before slipping in his middle finger. You gasped and shuttered as his finger moved in and out, your moans turned to whimpers as he slipped in another finger.

You moaned out his name as his fingers curled inside of you hitting your spot. You had no control of your body, your body spasming from his touch which was getting deeper and faster by the minute, you were moaning so loud you didn’t care who heard you and your hands searched for some part of him to touch to return the favor. You reached out for his waistband, his hard member was pressed against his pants. You wanted to make him feel as good as he made you.

Just as you were about to return the favor, the camp alarm went off for a final roll call for bed. You and Cooper froze, reality settling back in as you both quickly gathered yourselves, adjusting clothes and catching your breath.

Cooper sat back with a sheepish grin, running a hand through his hair. 'I guess I got a little carried away,' he admitted, a soft laugh escaping his lips as he glanced at you, clearly still processing everything.

You smiled back, your heart still racing but now more from the situation than the moment before. 'It’s fine,' you said with a light shrug, your voice playful. 'It was fun... and now I think the favor's officially been returned for being so sweet.'

He let out a low chuckle, his eyes soft and warm as he looked at you.

---

A few days had passed, and while you hadn't been actively avoiding Cooper or Nicholas, you also hadn’t been seeking them out either. You needed a moment to clear your head after everything, to let the tension simmer down before the campers arrived. Still, you didn’t want things to feel awkward, so you invited them over to your cabin to help put together goodie bags for the kids. Your cabin mate was out for the night, so you even suggested they sleep over since their cabins were farther away. It was a subtle effort to show them you were cool, if they were cool. Even though every time one of them shifted closer, the heat between your legs was impossible to ignore.

You all worked in a comfortable rhythm, talking and laughing as you assembled the bags, until a song came on that sent Nicholas into nostalgic mode. His eyes lit up, and with a grin, he said, "This song always reminds me of my first kiss." You laughed.

Nicholas leaned back, his eyes dreamy with the memory. "Middle school. At a dance. I was so nervous I almost missed her lips entirely."

The three of you burst into laughter, and soon the conversation flowed into everyone sharing their stories, one kiss memory after another. Cooper shared about his first kiss behind the bleachers at a football game, and you talked about a spontaneous kiss under the basement steps of your friends’ house with her hot older brother. The mood was light and fun, each of you enjoying the trip down memory lane.

But then Cooper, ever the curious one, leaned forward, his tone more playful than usual. "So... has anyone here fooled around at camp before?" The question hung in the air for a moment, and you could feel the tension shift. You knew exactly why you were feeling awkward, but you noticed Nicholas’s smirk almost instantly. His eyes flicked between you and Cooper, as though daring one of you to speak first.

You opened your mouth, not entirely sure what you were going to say, when Nicholas took the chance. "Actually," he began, leaning forward with a glint of mischief in his eyes. "I’ve done it twice already. And both of them are in this room."

Your eyes shot open, heart hammering in your chest as you whipped your gaze to Nicholas. Cooper let out a surprised laugh, and for a moment, you were too stunned to speak. Wait—Cooper already knew? Your mind raced to piece it all together, the realization dawning on you like a light bulb flicking on. You’d hooked up with Nicholas. Cooper knew. And they had hooked up too?

"Hold up," you finally managed to say, your voice a mix of shock and curiosity. "You two—?"

Nicholas nodded, leaning back with an easy confidence, clearly enjoying your reaction. "After arts and crafts clean-up a few days ago," he said, glancing at Cooper with a smirk. "We were the only ones left in the room, and we ended up in that tiny back closet putting away supplies…”

Cooper chimed in, chuckling. "It was kind of inevitable. I mean, we were basically on top of each other. And then... one thing led to another. I pulled his shirt off and started kissing chest. He kissed down my neck. Mouths went places, hands went places and rest is a fogged up window.”

Your mind spun, trying to wrap around the image of Nicholas and Cooper together. You could practically picture it—the tension, the closeness, the heat of the moment in the small, confined space.

You swallowed, feeling the heat rise between the three of you again, but this time it was different. This wasn’t about embarrassment anymore—it was curiosity, excitement, a shared secret now out in the open.

Cooper and Nicholas exchanged a glance before bursting out into laughter. Cooper was the first to speak. "Oh, it was obvious," he said, still chuckling. "When you came to the camp meeting that day after special classes, the hickies already started forming on your neck. You weren’t exactly subtle."

Nicholas leaned forward with a mischievous grin. "And I tried to come back to the dining hall after I left that night you two had clean up duty and I heard you two making out in the distance, so I turned right back around."

The three of you erupted into laughter, the kind that shakes your whole body and makes your cheeks hurt. It was funny now, how you’d all tiptoed around it, trying to keep it secret when in reality, none of you had been fooling anyone.

When the laughter finally died down, Nicholas’s curiosity took over. "Okay, so... real talk. Who do you prefer more?" His eyes sparkled with playful competitiveness, and he leaned back with a smirk, clearly ready for whatever answer you had.

Cooper grinned, nudging your shoulder. "Yeah, no pressure, but... we’re all dying to know."

You couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous it was—being asked to choose between them like it was some kind of game. You paused for a moment, then gave a mock-serious look as you made a reference only you could deliver. "You know, it feels like Tyra Banks standing here with two contestants in front of her, and only one can stay."

Cooper burst out laughing, recognizing the reference immediately. "No way, you’re not about to do an America’s Next Top Model elimination on us right now!"

You grinned, savoring the dramatic moment. "But if I had to choose..." you began, your eyes darting between them, building suspense. Finally, you pointed to Cooper. "It’s you."

Cooper jumped up from the floor, arms raised in victory. "Yes! I knew it!" he shouted, dancing around the room like he’d just won a championship. Nicholas, meanwhile, was in mock shock, his mouth hanging open as he smiled at the absurdity of it all.

"You’ve got to be kidding me!" Nicholas exclaimed, shaking his head with a grin. "I thought I had this in the bag!"

You laughed, trying to calm the chaos around you. "Hooking up with you, Nick, was fun and spontaneous. But Cooper..." you turned to Cooper, who was still grinning like an idiot, "...was gentle, tender, and made me feel really special."

Cooper shrugged nonchalantly, though the satisfaction was clear on his face. "What can I say? I just know how to make a woman feel special."

Nicholas rolled his eyes but smiled anyway, leaning closer to you. "Okay, fine. But..." he gave you that familiar smirk, "...if you let me have another shot, I can be gentle too."

You raised an eyebrow, curious. "Oh, yeah? You think so?"

He nodded, the playful tone in his voice now edged with something more serious. "Absolutely. If you’ll let me."

You smiled and nodded, your body buzzing with excitement. "Okay, I’m down."

With that, Nicholas took your hand and guided you to the bed. He sat down next to you and this time, there was no rush, no quick or hurried movements. He was slow, deliberate, his hands softer as they found your waist and pulled you gently toward him. He kissed you with a tenderness you hadn’t felt from him before, each movement careful, as though he was savoring the moment.

The heat between you built gradually, the tension thick in the air but controlled. Nicholas was taking his time, just like he promised. His lips moved against yours with a softness that surprised you, his hand sliding up your side in a slow caress that made your breath hitch. Compared to your first time hooking up, this was different—more intentional, more intimate.

You felt Cooper watching from the other side of the room, clearly entertained but also intrigued. Nicholas’s kiss deepened, but the pace stayed slow, methodical, as he explored every part of you with a newfound gentleness.

"Not bad," Cooper teased from the sidelines, his voice light but clearly enjoying the view. Nicholas smirked against your lips, but didn’t break the kiss, his focus entirely on you. He put his hand on his thigh and started messaging, working his way further and further up.

Nicholas parted from your lips to make his way down your neck. When you first hooked up, he would’ve started biting and sucking but this time he placed soft kisses on your neck, while lightly squeezing your thighs. He whispered in your ear “see, I can be anything you want me to be baby” he nearly whimpered in your ear.

His words sent a shiver down your spine, and your body quivered in response. You were melting into the moment, eyes closed, savoring the feeling, when suddenly, Nicholas pulled away. Your eyes shot open in confusion, the warmth of his body leaving yours too soon.

“Why’d you stop?” you asked, breathless, your lips tingling from his touch.

Nicholas smirked, a teasing glint in his eyes. “Just wanted to show you I could be gentle,” he said with a wink, clearly enjoying how worked up he’d gotten you.

You let out a soft laugh, though you couldn’t help but still want more. “Well, you’ve definitely proven that,” you teased back, a smile tugging at your lips.

Cooper stepped in, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Well, if we’re all trying new things, maybe it’s time I take a shot at being more... aggressive."

You smiled wide as you agreed, Cooper crossed the room in a few long strides and came to sit next to you on the bed. He gently but firmly grabbed your face, pulling you to his direction. His lips met yours with a fiery intensity, pulling you on top of him and kissing you harder, deeper than before. His hands gripped your hips with a sense of urgency, and he moved faster, more aggressively, his kisses more forceful as he claimed your mouth. The energy was completely different from the gentle, careful approach Nicholas had just taken, but it was equally intoxicating.

You gasped against Cooper’s mouth as he pressed into you, his lips trailing down your neck with no hesitation this time. He kissed you with raw hunger, teeth grazing your skin, his hands roaming your body with confident, demanding touches that sent heat pooling low in your belly. Every move he made was firm, and you could feel the shift in energy—this was Cooper letting go, leaning into the moment with full force.

But out of the corner of your eye, you caught sight of Nicholas watching from where he stood, his eyes dark with anticipation. His gaze was hungry, eager, as if he didn’t care who he joined in on, just that he wanted to be wrapped between you and Cooper.

Cooper noticed it too, pausing briefly to glance over at Nicholas. He didn’t say a word, but his eyes flashed with a knowing look, as if he was silently inviting Nicholas to join. Then, in one smooth motion, Cooper gently but firmly placed you back on the bed, your body sinking into the softness of the blankets beneath you.

Nicholas didn’t need any further invitation.

He crossed the room and joined you both, sliding onto the bed with that same eager smirk he always wore. Without missing a beat, he moved in close, taking his place on one side of you while Cooper positioned himself on the other. You could feel Nicholas’s breath warm against your skin before his lips pressed to the side of your neck, the same spot Cooper had just claimed moments ago.

The sensation of both of them on either side of you was overwhelming, in the best way possible. Nicholas’s kisses were slow but deliberate, each one more lingering than the last, while Cooper’s lips moved more urgently, as though he couldn’t get enough. You were surrounded by them, their hands tracing up and down your body as their mouths explored your neck, your collarbone, the sensitive spots just below your ear.

Nicholas’s fingers skimmed across your waist, his touch light but teasing, while Cooper’s hand slid down your thigh, squeezing gently. The contrast between the two of them made your heart race, and you couldn’t help but let out a soft, involuntary moan as you sank deeper into the sensation.

“This is what you wanted, right?” Nicholas murmured against your neck, his voice low and smooth, sending a shiver down your spine. “Both of us... all over you?”

Before you could answer, Cooper’s lips moved to your ear, his breath hot as he whispered, “Tell us what you like.”

You felt completely overwhelmed, your senses flooded by the way both Cooper and Nicholas were hitting every spot that made your body hum with pleasure. Nicholas's lips left soft, teasing kisses along your collarbone while Cooper’s hands roamed your body, his grip firm and sure. The contrast between their touches, one gentle, one rough, had your heart racing, and you were utterly lost in the sensation.

Needing more, you reached up, grabbing Cooper’s face and pulling him into a heated kiss. You matched his intensity, your lips moving hungrily against his, both of you completely giving in to the moment. His hands gripped your hips harder, pulling you closer, as if he wanted to devour you whole.

Meanwhile, Nicholas’s kisses continued to trail down your shoulder, slow and deliberate, each one sending shivers down your spine. His hands were patient, exploring every inch of your body with a calm but insistent touch, as if he wanted to memorize the way you felt beneath his fingers.

Cooper pulled away just long enough to tug your shirt over your head, and before you could even process it, Nicholas unhooked your bra with expert precision, leaving you bare in front of them. For a second, the weight of their gaze made you feel vulnerable—but the way they looked at you, eyes full of hunger and admiration, made the tension crackle in the air.

Without missing a beat, Nicholas’s lips found their way to your breast, his tongue tracing soft circles before he took your nipple into his mouth. The sensation sent a wave of heat through your body, and you gasped, arching into his touch. His mouth was gentle, but the pressure was enough to make your body ache for more.

At the same time, Cooper’s teeth grazed the sensitive skin of your neck, biting down just enough to leave a lingering sting that made you squirm in his grasp. His hands explored your back, pulling you flush against him, and every bite, every nip, felt like it was setting your skin on fire.

The combination of Nicholas’s slow, teasing kisses and Cooper’s rough, hungry bites made your mind spin. You could barely keep up with the sensations washing over you, your body reacting to every touch, every kiss, every movement. It was almost too much, but you couldn’t get enough.

“You’re perfect,” Nicholas whispered against your skin, his lips still trailing over your chest. “I could keep doing this all night.”

Cooper smirked against your neck, his hand sliding down your waist. “We might just have to.”.

#nicholas chavez #nicholas alexander chavez #cooper koch #nicholas chavez x reader #nicholas chavez x y/n #cooper koch x reader #cooper koch fanfic #nicholas chavez fanfiction #nicholas chavez smut #cooper koch smut #lavender baby #nasty remix #mother’s first fic 🤧🤧🤧🤧🤧🤧

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twilightkitkat · 9 months ago

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Can we talk about the dynamics of Logan "I eat anything and scarf it down immediately" Howlett and Wade "I only eat the same 10 foods in different fonts" Wilson?

Logan is used to living without. Even as a child, he had to get by when he was sick with the food his family could afford. Once he joined the military, he had to survive on the limited rations he was given. He didn't have room to be picky—he either ate what he was given or didn't eat at all. And in war, he had to eat eventually.

His preferences didn't matter. He was always treated as a soldier, a weapon, and his food reflected that. He'd get enough protein and carbohydrates to fuel his power but that was it. Food was for functional use, not to be enjoyed. It didn't matter if it tasted disgusting, he just inhaled it so the taste wouldn't linger.

He's also an extremely quick eater. He's feral and ravenous when hungry, tearing into meat with his claws and hands. He lived in the army, in the mountains, through the Great Depression, and in dangerous situations where he hunted for himself. To him, food is a scarce resource and if you don't eat it while you can, you might not have it tomorrow. So he takes gigantic bites and tears into food no matter how bland and unappealing it was because that's all he knows. His standards for food are just that it has to have nutrients and not be poisoned.

Wade, on the other hand, is more picky. If he had to choose between eating something he hates or not eating, he'd rather just starve. At first, in the army, he did eat what was given to him even if he disliked it, but it was purely for survival. He choked it down even when it made him vaguely nauseous and disgusted. But later, he'd hoard stashes of his own food that he managed to steal or barter for or bet on. It was better to be hungry most of the time than satiate his hunger temporarily only to fight to keep it down and feel sick the entire day.

The second he has the freedom to pick his own food, he sticks to things he knows he likes. That he feels comfortable with. He's picky about brands and specific types of food and how it has to be cooked or made, but he manages. He can normally find something on the menu he's OK with, even if he often has order a kid's meal. But most places have grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken tenders and macaroni, and people chalk it up to him being childish and silly, so nobody pays much attention.

Wade sees food as one of the only things he can control. He's been devoid of true choice for most of his life. He couldn't control getting cancer or being forced to turn into a horrific mutant. He couldn't save his relationship with Vanessa. When everything around him was collapsing, he hyperfixated on the little things he could control like food or clothing.

The two, together, learn to have a healthier relationship with food.

Logan was the first person to truly pay attention to Wade. To see which foods he liked and which he picked at and grimaced towards when nobody was looking. When Logan abruptly said he'd cook dinner one day, Wade was nervous, but nearly started bawling when Logan made homemade chicken tenders and macncheese. He noticed. He cared.

It was the first time Wade could be open and let someone see he was genuinely affected by food instead of him just playing it up as a lunatic. And Logan took him seriously and didn't make fun of him. He learned recipes to make the foods Wade liked but healthier and more balanced. He helped Wade finally get the nutrients he needed consistently without feeling sick to his stomach.

And Wade helped Logan too.

Logan was never allowed to have preferences. To have a sweet tooth or ask for more. To expect quality. But here Wade was, buying him some apple cinnamon-filled pastry just because he looked at it too long in the store.

Logan was never allowed to have dessert. To have sweet food just for the sake of it even after a meal. His eyes become wet as he clutches the pastry between his shaking hands and takes a bite. He's allowed this. To have the comforts in life. To eat just because it tasted good.

Someone cared about him enough to buy him what he wanted just because he'd enjoy them, not just to keep him functioning as a tool. Wade treated him as human. Like he was precious. Like he deserved the nice things in life.

And Wade reminds him of this. He stocks their kitchen with desserts that Logan likes, because he knows that Logan secretly enjoys sweet things. He sees the way he sniffs the air and wanders close to the fresh-baked goods of a bakery. He keeps snacks around the house, so Logan can eat whenever he want. Even if it isn't a "necessary meal."

And Wade learns to be more comfortable and try new variations of foods he likes that Logan makes. Because Logan knows the textures and flavors he hates and is somehow able to create a few new dishes entirely that he likes. He stops dreading mealtime or trying new foods. And Wade feels comfortable just trying the food without pressure, knowing that he can just not finish it if he doesn't want to and that someone else will.

And Logan learns to let himself enjoy eating again. To see it as less of a chore for the maintenance of his body and more as an enjoyable activity. Wade reminds him that he can eat just because he wants to and that it's OK to have preferences and ask for things. Logan feels well cared for. Pampered, almost. And he basks in the feeling of being wanted and loved and being allowed to express it through cooking and food.

#poolverine #deadclaws #kitkat #deadpool 3 #deadpool and wolverine #deadpool movie #logan howlett #wade wilson #wade x logan #wade/logan #wade would 100% be picky as hell #i am too #it gets a bit better w age but never really goes away #and logan would learn to eat slowly #to actually savor the food bc it isnt going anywhere #i love poolverine

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cherrys-muses · 3 months ago

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Ok, a request for something angsty with Eddie:

You're Eddie's best friend, you have a lot in common with him, you like the same things, you're a nerd metalhead girl, and you want to invite him to prom and confess what you feel for him, but he tells you that he already invited another girl (maybe a kind of popular girl?) who was his lab partner. You choose the ending 👀

an; hi okay hello thank you for this. you’re the best. but also …. are you in my mind. i live for these type of angsty, lovesick, teenage years. w; doesn’t follow st timeline.

you’d met eddie in middle school — a skinny boy who had a buzzcut. sort of weird, you’d watched him many, many times during lunch, his laugh all but crazy as he and his friends made…slop from the cafeteria food.

mashed potatoes turned into a marsh with chocolate milk poured on top, the chicken nuggets that tasted stale and told served as ‘dinosaurs’ and the broccoli was propped into the mashed potato marsh as trees.

again, eddie munson was anything but normal — he was strange, funny, and smart (when he was actually applying himself to his work). a true artist as well — his journal had been filled with monsters from a new game, Dungeons & Dragons is what you’d heard him called it.

you’d made a passing complement on it once. a nice, ‘that’s cool, eddie.’ that passing comment was soon the start of a growing friendship between two kids in seventh grade.

two kids who were growing awkwardly in their uncomfortable bodies, where the mind couldn’t comprehend things at times — like, where did that zit come from? or even why did you suddenly need to keep going to the bathroom after every class once a week every month?

he’d learned quickly why.

but growing together and staying close through high school, you both had begun to understand feelings and thoughts more.

you’d begun to understand why you’d get nervous every time you were alone with eddie, why your hands would get clammy and why your throat would get dry.

you wouldn’t say anything. not yet. maybe not ever.

but you did know one thing; you wanted to go to prom with your best friend. it was something you both had made fun of at the beginning of high school, something for popular kids who only used daddy’s money to get whatever they wanted.

then as you watched eddie grow into himself — a boy who had once a buzzcut had grown his hair out, surprisingly curly. he wasn’t as shy before, but any of the slight hesitation he’d hold before doing something questionable was never there anymore.

like yelling across the cafeteria. cutting class to smoke under the bleachers. selling in the woods behind the school.

eddie munson was different in your eyes.

you’re trying hard to find the courage to ask him to prom. there’s a pizza on the coffee table, a beer bottle in his hand while your bottle of cherry coke leaves behind a wet mark on the table from the small droplets of water that drip down slowly.

clearing your throat, you shift on the couch. eddie’s eyes drift away from the television to you instead, lifting a brow. “you alright over there?”

“hm?” you look at him. oh. he’s so pretty. “oh, yeah. i’m good. just…watching the movie.”

eddie stares at you for a moment longer, letting out a small huff as he places his beer to the side. “oh, i asked vanessa to prom.” he says suddenly.

like it was nothing.

you watch as he reaches for another slice of pizza, blinking, and suddenly he’s already leaning back into the worn cushions of the couch, taking a bite of the pizza.

pinching your brows together, you shake your head. “the…one on the cheerleading team?” the pretty one who was always kind to everyone. the thought has your heart sinking, the feeling of a knot already forming in your throat.

which is stupid of you to already cry over something so small.

“yeah,” he nods. wiping the grease from the corner of his mouth. “we’re lab partners in science. she’s…nice. pretty.” he smiles a bit.

“oh…i thought…” he looks over at you, tilting his head slightly. “well, i just thought we would’ve went together,” his brows lift slightly.

you’re quick to cover yourself. “i mean, we made a pact to go together when we started high school to make fun of everyone who went.”

scoffing out a laugh, he shakes his head. “that was freshman year,” he pushes at your arm. “besides, you wouldn’t want to actually go. even if you did, you wouldn’t want to go with me.”

staying silent, you stare at him, lips pulled into a slight frown. the bite he’s about to take is forgotten when he slowly glances over at you.

lowering his hand, he sits up a bit straighter. “you didn’t want to go, right?”

pursing your lip, your head turns as you shake it. standing from the couch, you reach to grab your coat and bag from the ground. “it’s getting late. i need to get home.”

your quick on your feet as you walk over to the door, shoving your feet into your shoes. the door opens with a creak as you yank it open, quickly walking down the rickety steps.

the porch door creaks and slams shut a minute later. “hey, wait! why are you— let me drive you home at least.”

“no. i want to ride my bike,” you’re struggling with the padlock, a wave of anger and confusion washing over you as you pull at it. “why won’t this thing…”

eddie watches you with a frown. he says your name softly, a hand wrapping around your wrist. “i’m going to drive you home. it too dark and late for you to be riding home by yourself.”

clenching your jaw, you nod once. “i’ll come back and get my bike later.” you pull away from him quickly, walking towards his van.

you’re confused on why you’re feeling so much. confused why something so mundane makes you upset. angry because your confused. angry because he’s acting as if it doesn’t matter.

you don’t spare him a glance when he gets inside the van. you turn towards the door, resting your head against the window.

you’re quick to unbuckle when you see your house, reaching for your bag.

“i didn’t think it meant that much to you,” he suddenly speaks, causing your fingers to grip around the door handle. “the pact, i mean. if i would’ve known i would—”

“it doesn’t matter, eddie,” you shake your head. “it’s something stupid to get upset over anyway.”

“but it’s not. if it’s something that bothers you that much.”

letting out a small scoff with a laugh mingled in between, you shake your head. “that’s not even the reason i’m upset. i thought you and i would’ve went together anyway,” you finally look over at him. “wanting to go and make fun of people at prom isn't something that appeals me anymore. i just…”

pausing, your eyes trace over his features before staring back at his eyes. “i just wanted to go with you. i wanted to be with you.”

opening his mouth, eddie begins to speak. but you’re already opening the door and stepping out of the van, making your way towards the door.

eddie watches quietly, a small frown on his face. the door closes behind yourself, yet he still finds himself sitting outside your home for the next thirty minutes.

—

an old record plays as you read, some candy wrappers on your nightstand, fresh out of the shower in new clothing and a freshly cleaned bedroom.

it’s prom day. and even though you could’ve asked someone, you didn’t.

so, a productive day was in store. cleaning, dancing on small breaks, keeping your mind from wondering on how eddie might’ve looked tonight.

your parents were gone for the night — new shifts being picked up.

it was perfect. maybe.

hearing the doorbell, you perk up suddenly, rolling off the bed to slip on your slippers. the oversized shirt your wear slips off your shoulder slightly as you make your way down the steps.

grabbing the money that had been slipped into the bowl by the door for you, you open the door. “hi. it was—”

you pause when you see eddie in front of you. a pressed suit on, his hair in a low bun. he’s clean shaven, some sort of new cologne lingers on him.

“what are you doing here? your supposed to be at prom.”

“i—” eddie stares at you, watching as your brows furrow together slightly. the worry lines on your forehead deepen causes his heart to skip a beat, his chest slightly heaving as his palms grow clammy.

you look almost unreal. the light on the porch shines inside just right, highlighting your face. something catches in his throat as he steps over the threshold, pressing his lips against yours as his hands cradle your face.

your eyes are wide, hands raised in the air. eddie hasn’t pulled away and suddenly, you’re all too aware of what’s happening. the shock slowly settling as your eyes slowly close and hands lower to his shoulders.

he steps closer this time, one of his hands tangling into your hair as his thumb drags slowly across your cheekbone.

pulling away slowly, he watches as your head lowers, his lips grazing against your forehead. “what are you doing?”

“i couldn’t stop thinking about you,” his voice is soft, melted into something sweet. “that’s not anything new. i always think about you,”

you’re quick to look up at him once again. “i just…feelings are something that scares me. and when i realized how i felt about you,” his hand cups your cheek again, shaking his head. “how i truly felt, it scared me. i didn’t…couldn’t want to ruin something good.”

“eddie—”

“no,” he cuts you off. “i should’ve told you. i shouldn’t have kept you wondering for so long, im sorry. i’m so sorry,” he breathes, pressing another kiss to your lips.

your overwhelmed in both a good and bad way. he pulls away quickly, shaking his head again. “i couldn’t stop thinking about you. i love you,” he nods this time, pressing his forehead against your own. “i love you.”

closing your eyes slowly, your hands slide down his arm to wrap around his wrist softly. his nose nudges against yours, his lips grazing yours.

turning your head, your lips press a kiss to his palm softly before opening your eyes slowly. you glance at him, pressing another kiss to his other palm.

“i love you too, eddie,” you nod. “but this isn’t something i want you to be rash about. something that you’re just—”

“i’m not,” he cuts you off quickly. “i’m not being rash just because of the other night. it hurts. i dream about you every night. the home we have. the…” his breath is shaky.

“the kids we have. it feels real to me. it is real,” he nods. “this is real.” he whispers.

you stare at him quietly, before suddenly nodding. cupping his jaw, you press a kiss to his lips, pressing your forehead against his.

“this is real.” you whisper softly.

#𝜗𝜚 cherry’s inbox #joseph quinn x fem!reader #joseph quinn x reader #eddie munson x fem!reader #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x you

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delusionalalien · 3 months ago

Text

[Embrace You, Devour You] [Chapter 5] YANDERE!Mark Grayson x Fem!Reader x YANDERE!Variant!Invincibles

Not much mark on this chapter, but i have to write this part because it is basically the catalyst that triggered the entire events that will follow. Mostly acted on by Vanessa and that becomes a whole other problem as well. WE ARE CLOSER TO THE MAIN STORY THOUGH AAHAHAHHAHAHAHA

Note: again, before y'all decide to cancel me in the near future, i am updating tags regularly in each chapter because i ain't putting all my energy into typing and editing the tags for the previous chapters. PLEASE READ THEM!!!!

Reader is turning 14 soon , Mark is 13

prologue

previous chapter , next chapter

T.W / Tags: Slow-burn, Soft yandere, pining, mark is bat shit crazy but he good dw, baby-trapping, teen pregnancy, yandere variants, mark a lil pushy, breeding kink, jealous Mark Grayson, talks of abortion, misunderstandings, possessive Mark Grayson, murder, gore, child-murder(variant!readers), attempted suicide, murder-suicide(variant!readers), OOC, prob need more tags, Heavy Physical Bullying This Chapter

Your day started off bad and it also ended much worse.

You stand in the ruins of a city, arms crossed on your well developed chest. your white and grey tight skin suit littered with gashes from the fight between you and a kaiju.

The beast roared for a second to make its presence known, both of you in an intense stare down waiting for the other to make its move. Your hair adorned with a white streak to similar to your mothers.

You didn't wait, you didn't want to give it time. So you flew right onto the monsters snout and gave it a good punch with your bare knuckles. It staggered a few meters back and you didn't give it enough time to recover as you held your hands out, the tingling feeling of your powers making it effect on the beast as it whimpered.

It's face began to contort followed by its body curling into a ball midair before it turned into a flesh sphere. It fell somewhere in the city for the GDA to find.

As you lower yourself back to earth, you were met with the praises of civilians.

"Empress Crusader! We love you!"

"Empress! Look here!"

The praises got into your head, flipping your hair coolly as you walked through and they part for you like the red sea.

At the end of the crowd, stood there was Mark, he was older and he was wearing his civilian attire. His blue sweater with two lines across and his yellow undershirt peeked out from underneath his sweater. You see him smile at you, clapping at your victory.

"Wow (Name) you were really great back there!" he says as he took you by the hand.

"Thanks Mark!" You blushed, hold his hand tightly on yours as you both leaned closer to one another.

"So, do you wanna hang out in my place later?"

Mark smiled as he eagerly accepted.

"Yeah, I'd like that."

You two leaned closer, nose brushing as you two slowly close the gap. Lips nearly touching as you close your eyes.

Then without warning the sky turned red, the wind picked up as you pushed Mark behind you to protect him. The clouds morphed and turned into a face, a gnarly and grotesque face appears, glaring at you from below.

"Who are you?" You yelled, covering Mark as he cowers from behind you.

"Ms. Aguilar..." The face spoke

"How do you know my name!" This time you were in a defensive stand, ready to take action.

"Ms. Aguilar..." This time the face spoke angrily.

"Wake up..."

"huh?"

"WAKE UP!"

You jolted awake from your nap. The pencil firm in your hand flew off the table, the papers you were sleeping on wet from your drooling. You scanned the room in a panic, your ears picking up the snickering from the other side of the room.

Right, you were in your first class doodling about your hero costume on some spare papers you had on your bag, then somehow you fell asleep in the middle of his class.

Mr. Harrington raised a brow at you, one hand on a ruler he had been using to slap the whiteboard at the front earlier in class and the other on his waist before he slapped the ruler on your desk again.

"Awake now Ms. Aguilar?"

You nodded vigorously and wiping away the drool from your mouth.

"Sorry Mr. Harrington, I didn't have enough sleep last night." You sheepishly smiled, cursed Demon Manslaughter and its great amination because by the time the anime was done, you only have 3 hours left to sleep.

Glaring at Rebecca's goons from across the room when you see them fake sleeping clearly mocking you while a friend of hers laugh.

"Detention after (Name), don't even think of skipping." He points his ruler on you before he made his way back to the front of the class, continuing where he left off.

You let out a groan. Fuck high school.

It's been a year since you have your unrequited crush on your next door neighbor.

A year since you both finally became freshmen in high school.

A year since you lied about liking Todd.

And you don't know who, but someone told her that you like Todd.

You should have seen it miles away. The way she bat her lashes at Todd, the way she smiled like he was the most important person in her life, the way she changed based on his preferences.

God, you should have known that Rebecca White, your long time bully, had a fat fucking obsession crush on Todd Jefferson, the number one douchebag since elementary.

You were pressed harshly underneath the school benches, held by her goons on each arm as she slapped and clawed at your face, saying some shit that Todd would never look at you and what not. You we're incoherent, your ears failing you when one of her goons punched you right in ear in an attempt to knock you out earlier.

You can hear muffles of what she was saying, blood rushing out of your nose, your cheeks red from the constant assault of her hands, you felt sore all over. No matter how many times you try to pry away from her friends, you were always pinned right back up on that very same wall.

You cried out when Rebecca's friend punched your stomach, you we're just minding your business, heading to detention after parting ways with William and Mark. Mark offered to stay after school to wait for you but you shooed him off and told him to wait at your house so you both can play video games. Now you wished you let him stay, you wished you didn't waved at him when he entered that bus.

You puked out the food your father made for you. Head hanging low. You see the chunks of what he made, the ones he stuff in your bag and you remember your mother kissing you in the head before she and your father saw you off to school. Promising you that it'll be a fun day.

You cried not out of pain, but for your parents, for anyone to hear your pleas as you beg them for mercy.

"Holy shit Becks, her ear is bleeding."

You can make out one of her goons. Rebecca didn't stop no, seeing you writhing in pain entirely at her mercy gave her a power boost. How pathetic you were in her eyes. If anything, you understood she was turned on at the sight of you in her mercy.

"You always acted like you were fucking untouchable with that little gang of yours, where the hell are they now huh?!" slap after slap, your skin was becoming raw, red and bleeding.

"Let.. me go." You attempted to swing at her, but your arms we're pinned to the wall.

Another punch to the gut causes you to choke on the bile that rise in your throat. You let the contents of your food fall from your mouth, gasping in pain and finally you were let go.

You unceremoniously fell into your own stomach fluid. The smell clinging to your hair and you sob as your open wounds soaked in the puke that you laid on.

Before you can even lift yourself up, Rebecca kicked you right in the chest. Hard.

You feel yourself choked. Gasping as you gripped on your stained shirt for a sense of relief.

"Fucking know your place you sleepless freak."

With that they left. Not when one of them send one last kick to your stomach. You choked on a sob, tears blurred your vision as you see them walk away from you.

Rebecca White, she was rich, unstoppable, her parent's success makes her invulnerable to expulsions or even consequences for her actions. Back then she only ever did shove you out the swings or push you when you were in her way.

You wondered, why haven't you told on her to your mother. Was it shame? or was it because you thought you can handle whatever she brings to you?

Or perhaps you were afraid for her?

You don't know, you don't want to think.

So you cried, you cried for the pain to stop, your cheeks to heal, you cried for someone to find you, anyone really, you begged for the universe to find the strength in your arms to get up, for your legs to move.

Hell you were begging for a miracle, for your dormant powers to come and save you.

fucking move already, you cursed, but instead you gasped, your chest hurting and then there was a crack, your ribs caved in under the pressure.

You were crying for so long you hadn't notice the sun was setting, and the school lights closing.

You laid there, in the cold, waiting for someone to open them again, anyone to find you.

Pleading.

"Mommy..."

Was the last thing you muttered when you ultimately passed out in your own digested vomit.

Amber grumbles in annoyance. Her volleyball was left at school, her friends were using it after class during practice since the school haven't ordered any new ones.

She was relentlessly annoyed since it was her volleyball that was left at school. A gift her mother on her birthday.

Amber notices a few teachers hanging out the entrance, ready to leave when they spot her jogging over.

Amber explained to them briefly of her situation, Mr. Harrington nodded, agreeing to accompany Amber to get her ball back as they open the open the lights back up only for the gym.

"Where did your friends leave it?" Mr. Harrington questions Amber who was running up and down the benches, looking for the blue ball.

"They said they left it at the bench over here," Amber says, "I guess it rolled under."

Amber crouched, scanning for her ball and spots it rolled into the corner.

"Sweet! I found it!"

She celebrated, then she froze, face going pale as her mouth gape when she caught sight of someone's shoes still quite clearly attached to the person under the benches just a few steps away from where her ball was.

"Amber, are you alright?"

Amber didn't speak, mortified as she points at the body.

Mr. Harrington looked and his blood ran cold. Instantly he rushed to under the benches yelling at Amber to call the other teachers and for an ambulance.

It wasn't long before an ambulance appeared.

and for the news to reach your father.

Vanessa returned home, lights turned on the stove recently shut off, with the cupcakes still inside. The television buzzing in the living but nobody home.

She found it odd. Eerie, she doesn't return home to nobody in it once in her life when she had you. She was on her toes, alert for any signs of break ins that might have happened yet nothing, the house was dead silent, the ac in your room was off.

Why weren't you home?

Her phone rang, startling her from her thoughts. She scrambled to pick it up.

Nicolas was calling her.

"My love, where are you? Where is (Name)?" she paced around the living room.

Nicolas sharply took in some air trying to calm himself at the end of the line but broken sobs followed and he couldn't hide how entirely wreck he is now.

"I'm fine, but (Name)-"

"What happened to our varóbushik?" Vanessa feels her heart racing, "Tell me where you two are, now!"

Dead silence at the end, but Vanessa can make out that Nicolas was trying his best not to break down while he was talking to her.

"...we are at the hospital, mahal, Debbie and Mark are here too..."

Hospital?

"Changed into civilian clothes okay? They took her to a normal hospital, we'll be waiting, I love you..."

She hadn't even noticed she froze. Hospital, the one thing she never wants to see you in.

She made efforts, brought you medicine and with the help of your father fed you only the heathiest meals meant for someone as precious as you.

Yet you were at the hospital?

Vanessa sat down, taking it in. Breathing in and out, like Nicolas taught her when they were young, when he caught her in a panic attack not far from your age.

Her fingers were numbing. What the hell happened to her baby, was she even breathing normally? Was her kid even alive?

There was worry, then it boils into anger.

She dialed a number on her phone, stomping her way and changing into normal clothes, ignoring the way the objects that were levitating in her anger with clenched fist, rationality slipping as the seconds roll by while hearing the phone ring in her end.

"Crusher?"

"Mr. Stedman, i wish to ask a favor."

Nobody harms her baby and get away with it.

Sickness, Alien or Human.

Note: Damn i should probably add Platonic!Yandere!Mother in this too Jesus Christ

#idk how to tag this #variant mark grayson #mark grayson x reader #idk man #idk what im doing #yandere mark grayson x reader #variant!mark x reader #invincible x you #slow burn #yandere

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xetlynn · 3 months ago

Text

Scars and Faint Memories

Vanessa Palmer x fem! reader!

chapter one-> chapter two

••• in which [name] [last name]’s team has just won their last game meaning they’re heading to nationals! But unfortunately there’s a teammate who is slacking due to being a freshman and lacking experience. And there’s talk of freezing her out. And not even moments later a freak accident happens where her bone is now sticking out of her leg leading to arguments and tension within the team before their flight to nationals.

warnings: underaged drug and alcohol use. Things that happen in yellowjackets.

2021

The clock was ticking irritatingly slow, the sun shining brightly through the window and to you it was as if it were to purposely agitate you while you typed away on your computer. Attempting to finish the project your boss had asked of you last minute… as usual.

You felt your knuckles tense as you grew more and more annoyed with today. It was going by incredibly long and excruciating, your eyes sauntering down to the little corner of your screen, only a minute has passed since you last checked it. “[Name],” a voice speaks from behind you, startling you out of your daze. “Yes?” You spun around, trying to force a smile upon your lips but it was no use. It just looked like you were constipated.

“Break time.” It was your boss's secretary, the very same lady having an affair with him behind his wife’s back. Your typical story of a unleashed married man being in power. You walked in on them once and was given a raise along with additional paid time off to keep your mouth shut. “It’s only 10:30.” You respond dryly, you usually take your break around 11:15. This was taking you off schedule and you didn’t like it.

“Mr. Isik needs you around your usual break time. Sorry.” She apologetically bows her head, her eyes averting yours as normal ever since you saw her bare body on display on your bosses desk. “Mm, okay.” You sigh deeply, standing up from your spot. Grabbing your tote bag before heading into the employee break room. A few typical stares came your way by the same people everyday. You worked with them, you have been for years and still they can’t leave you be.

You sit down at one of the many tables, making sure it’s against the wall and you can be alone. You get out your earbuds, putting them in to play music. Drowning out the noise of your fellow coworkers that indulge in their own food.

Pulling out a sandwich out of your lunchbox, you lean back against the chair as you take that first bite. Finally not having to be right against a screen. Closing your eyes to get the peace they needed.

The peace wasn’t satisfyingly long enough though, it was time to get back to work. Time to go back to typing away. Sucking in a breath through your teeth, you fling your bag over your shoulder and head back to your cubicle. You’re stopped before you can even reach it though, your boss standing in front of you with a nervous smile. “Heyy, [Last Name]!” He booms, only earning an awkward stance back from you, your face straight and bored.

“Yes, Isik?” You roll your eyes, leaning on your right leg. “I need you in my office for a little, okay?” He says in a more inquisitive tone, which makes you raise a brow. “Uh, sure.” You follow him to his office, he opens the door to show a woman standing there with a pad of paper and a pen. “What is this?” You clutch onto your bag.

This was all too familiar the same confident expression on the person’s face, ready to question you over a traumatic event that happened to you as a child 25 years ago. “This is-”

“I’m Jessica Cruz…”

1996

Out on the field, you’re staying in the back with Lottie. Watching as midfielder, Taissa is expertly moving upfield with the ball.

Negotiating through the defenders on the other team. Kicking the ball in a perfectly-aimed pass to your captain, Jackie who connects and taps the ball just past the Goalie and into the net. It went quiet for only a second before your ears were rudely attacked by screams of your teammates.

Lottie jumps into the air, clinging onto you even through the sweat that covered the both of you. A rare genuine smile erupts on your face, holding her back. You glance back to your goalie who runs and jumps the two of you.

“C’mon let's join them!” She screams, gripping the both of you and the three of you run to the crowd excitedly. Your Gold and Blue team high five, hug and cheer as you guys have just qualified for the U.S. Girls’ National Championship!

You scan the group of girls for your best friend, once your eyes spot her she has already done the same, jogging up to you. Taking your hands and the two of you jump up and down. “We did it!” She laughs ecstatically and you nod your head grinning. “I can’t believe it!” You breathe out. Your chest was tight with the joy you felt.

The two of you walk with one another, linked by each other’s arms down the field. You were searching around the crowd on the bleachers for your family. Hoping that for once your mom was sitting there with your younger siblings. Natalie knew the drill, her steps slower so that you can scan the area.

Unfortunately only seeing your little brother and sister cheering for you alone. Your mother behind the gate taking a phone call from her newest personal phone she bought instead of getting you the new cleats you begged for.

You’re 18 though so… you obviously ended up working for it yourself.

“Can you grab my stuff for me?” You quietly mutter out, the bleach blond nodding her head. Squeezing your wrist twice before jogging off to the locker room.

You head over to your siblings with a forced smile, opening your arms. “Hi my little ones!” You beam, they reach over to grip you into a sticky hug. Their small arms embracing you. “You were so cool out there, [Name]!” Theo, your 9 year old brother exclaims with a bright look in his eyes.

You chuckle. “One day I’ll show you to be just as cool.” You ruffle his hair. “Me too, right?” Tilly, she’s 6 with her front two teeth missing. Just as cute as your brother. You scrunch your nose. “I thought you didn’t want to play soccer?”

“Oh… Well you can still teach me to be cool too.” She sasses causing you to laugh, not noticing the girl who was walking up behind you. Your siblings did though, the redhead put her finger up to her lips.

Motioning for the young ones to not give her away. Theo gave a small nod and Tilly tried hard not to give it away with her little giggles as you continued to talk to them about their chores they had to do tonight.

“If we get them done, you guys can help me with something fu-”

“Boo!” A hand slams down on your shoulder, your body jolts, along with a small high-pitched noise leaving your mouth. “Holy shit- Van?” You hold your chest as Theo and Tilly burst into laughter, feeding the girl’s ego in front of you. “Sorry, it was just too good not to.” She apologizes, folding her arms in front of her chest. “Right, whatever.” You playfully roll your eyes.

“Is there something I can do for you?” You tilt your head to the side. It wasn’t meant to be rude by any means. You and Van just weren’t close. Of course being on the team together for four years, the two of you have had to spend a lot of time with one another but you kept to yourself unless absolutely necessary. Well, Natalie, your best friend was an exception.

“Oh uh, I was just coming over to say that aerial duel you got us was fucking sick.” She tells you truthfully and your face heats up. “That- that was nothing,” you nervously chuckled. “That second block you did was crazy, the dive you did- seriously I think that’s a huge reason we got ahead.” You stammered. This is why you kept to yourself. Your social anxiety controlled every aspect of your life when you talked to literally anyone.

“Pshh, I’m talking about you right now. You were seriously amazing, don’t downplay it.” Van gently hits your arm with her fist. “Right, thank you. I mean it though. It was really cool.” You nudge her back. Then the both of you awkwardly stand there, not knowing how to end the conversation. “Sissy, mom wants us to hurry. She has to get back to her computer.” Tilly tugs at your jersey, and silently you thank her.

Practically praise her for cutting this weird moment between you and your teammate. “Okay, tell her that Nat is getting my things from the locker room. I’ll be right there.” You tell the two who nod their heads and scurry off to your mother.

“Want to walk with me?” You hear beside you and you look to still see Vanessa standing there. You figured she would’ve ran off after Tilly interrupted you guys. “Oh… sure.” You shrug your shoulders.

The two of you walk side by side, quietly. Watching your teammates either entering the school building or talking with their family members as well. “They’re cute.” Van says and you hum. “Yeah, thank you.” You smile to yourself. You loved your siblings with your whole being. “I think I’m blanking on their names, I want to say the girl is Tilly?”

“Yeah, Tilly- Well, Matilda but you have to call her Tilly or she won’t respond. And Theodore or Theo, he doesn’t really care what you call him.” You inform her,opening the door to the school building, allowing her to go in first.

“Oh, how cute. Your names oddly fit so well.” She comments leaving you a little confused. “Is that a good thing?” You question, this time she’s opening the locker room door for you. “Yeah-”

Before she can continue though Natalie is shoving your duffle bag and backpack into your arms. “Sorry [Nickname] I got caught up in… something… oh hey Van?” She glances between the two of you and you smile softly. “It’s alright, she’s waiting for us. Let’s go.” You swing your backpack over your shoulders.

“Right,” Natalie huffs.

“Bye Van, thanks for walking with me. See you!”

“See ya, [Nickname].” She teases you to which your face turns warm just like before. But instead of saying anything you grab onto your best friend and hurry off. Not wanting to hear your mom lecture you for “taking your time.”

“I didn’t know you were friends with Vanessa Palmer?” Natalie snickers, poking your side to which you shove her away. “I didn’t think I was? She just came up to me after the game! She’s never done that before.” You explain, wiping the sweat from your forehead as you push through the metal and glass door.

“Hm, weird it’s almost the end of the season and school. And now she wants to be your friend?” Natalie raises a brow to which you shrug your shoulders. Arriving at your mother’s car and the two of you climb.

“Hey, sweetie. How was the game?” Your mom gruffs out, lighting a cigarette while beginning to drive. Your mood deflates a bit at her question. If she actually paid attention she would know how the game was. “We won.” You curtly answered while staring out the window.

“Oh congrats you two! That means Nationals next, huh?” She smacks a hand down on your thigh, excitedly shaking it. “Yup, I heard Lottie’s dad might be paying for everything.” You sigh out and Natalie agrees. “I heard the same thing.”

“I’m the only freshman who got asked, you know. And now it doesn’t even matter. It’s so unfair.” Allie pouts to which you roll your eyes at the younger girl's antics. You stand beside Taissa after she helped you paint a bee on your face for the pep rally. Shauna and Natalie share a small exchange of looks. “My dress was gonna be amazing.” Allie continues her idiotic complaint.

“At least you can wear it next year.” Van comments and you hum in agreement.

“You don’t get it Van, ‘cause nobody asked you.”

You scoff at her words. “What a weird thing to say.” You murmur, pushing past the group into the actual locker room. You made sure you were loud enough to be heard as well.

Van follows after you with a very subtle smile placed upon her lips. “It didn’t hurt my feelings, y’know.” Her voice speaks as you're tying your tennis shoe against the bench. “You’re better than me then. I would’ve brought up the fact that we’d most likely be perfectly fine without her even on the team anyways if the prom is that important.” You boredly look up to the redhead who snorts out a laugh.

“That’s a little harsh.” She sits beside you and you purse out your lips. “A little. But it’s the truth, is it not?” Your eyes meet with hers. You watch as she takes a deep breath as if she had just lost it. She nods her head.

“Now, our next act needs no introduction. So let’s all just make some noise for your New Jersey State Girls’ Soccer Champions!” Vice Principal Berzonsky announces you guys as Music Factory blares from the speakers. The crowd boredly cheers. Your team is jogging out on the court, you hear Misty cheering the loudest. The weird girl who became the equipment manager since she didn’t make the team.

It seemed to have made the other students build in their own applause with the wooden bleachers beginning to rumble.

You stand between Lottie and Natalie, feeling a sense of pride and appreciation. It was like a wave of adrenaline has hit you. Hard. A feeling that doesn’t come around much to you. A feeling you soak up with your fellow teammates. Turning your head to look at the girls who have been with you through it all.

2021

“I’m Jessica Cruz, it’s wonderful to finally meet you [Name] [Last Name].” She shoots out a hand in your direction and you glare down at it without moving your own. Your boss feels the tension in the room.

“I’m gonna give you two some privacy! I’ll be doing some stocking checks.” He announces, leaving the room before there were any objections, shutting the door behind him.

“Do you remember me?” Jessica asks and you let out a dry chuckle. “This is a new low, Jessica Cruz. Should I get a restraining order?” You look her up and down apathetically.

“No need for that, I just want to offer you something more than anyone else could ever do.” She leans against the large wooden desk and you plop your bags down on the chair ahead of her. “Offer away, wouldn’t change a thing Sweetheart.” You motion for her to go ahead, hands on your hips.

“7 figures, to sit with me and write a book about your side of the story. Your story of what happened to you out there. Seven figures.” She thinks since you're in the corporate business this is how she can get you.

How sorely mistaken is she?

“I made that all by myself in my twenties. Hit me harder, Jess.” You wave at her, same expression.

She lets out a little snicker. “You’ve made seven figures? I find that hard to believe-”

“I’d watch your next few words.” You warn her, reminding her of why she’s here. “What if I told you the others did speak?” She has a smug expression, an expression you were tempted to… Anyways.

You break out into a small grin trying not to laugh. “Right.” You gave her a large smile this time. “I’m gonna get back to work now.” You say condescendingly, “thank you for wasting my time.” You swing your bag back over your shoulder. “Wait- wait.” She reaches out for you, you back away before she can touch you though.

“I can seriously offer you anything, you can be anonymous. Get your story out there. I’m sure one of the others had done something back then. We can work something out.” Jessica didn’t seem like the type to sound desperate but it sort of intrigued you.

“Who do you think did me dirty? Since you know it all.” You raise your brows, waiting for her reply. It was only getting humorous for you now. It was typical of reporters. To try and get you to speak, give them a sliver of what happened to you guys out there. Especially after getting back home 25 years ago they were like weeds that kept popping up out of nowhere.

“Well, I heard you were close with a few back then. Now… you’re all alone. You blocked everyone. But I have a feeling something pushed you to that point. Vanessa Palmer seems to have the most distaste for you.”

Your heart drops to the sound of her name. A name that was almost foreign to you now. Your eyes advert to another area. “Seems like I’m right.” She lowly chuckles.

“Doesn’t matter, I’m not the type to speak ill of others.” You step to the door. “Truly thank you for making my day a bit more interesting. Hopefully I never see you again though.” You swing the door open and rush to your cubicle before she tries to stop you again.

And at the end of the day, as you sit on your couch in silence. You find yourself thinking about the redhead that that woman had mentioned earlier in the day. You feel sick to your stomach.

Your eyes trailing upward to the pictures on your wall, filled with her face. Pictures you couldn’t get yourself to take down fifteen years ago. Feeling anger seep through you, you go to grab a pillow but a phone call interrupts what you’re doing.

1996

Shauna and you were walking beside one another as you’re on your way to practice. Noticing Natalie, Taissa and Lottie the two of you head over. “This is what we’ve been working for all season. You really want to take that chance?” Tai questions, you scrunch your eyebrows confused.

“Yeah. ‘Cause I’m not a fucking asshole.” Natalie crosses her arms with a stern look on her face. You link your arms with hers. “What’s happening?” You mutter out. “Yeah, what are you guys talking about?” Shauna quizzes.

The three glance towards Allie, flirting hard with seniors and juniors on the other side of the courtyard. “Allie.” Lottie speaks. “What about her?” Shauna asks.

“Did you black out at States? She totally choked.” Taissa reminds the girl and you purse out your lips. “She’s a freshman, Tai.” Natalie stands up for her, which kind of surprises you. “She’s a liability.” Taissa argues.

“I mean that is true but… we can probably help her.” You attempt to stand behind your best friend. Taissa scoffs at you. “You’re her number one hater during games and now you think we can help her?”

“That’s different, I do that with all of you guys when you’re slacking.” You point at her and she sighs knowing that you’re not lying about that.

“What do you want to do about it?” Shauna butts in now. Natalie and Taissa share a glance with one another. “She can’t screw up if she doesn’t get the ball.”

“You want to freeze her out?” Shauna frowns and you do the same. “We’d basically be a man down. At Nationals.” Natalie brings up to which you hum.

“At least we’d know what we’re working with.” As much as you want to agree with Taissa right now, you know it’s not the best decision. “I don’t know, Tai. She kinda sucks, but… it doesn’t feel right.” Lottie steps in on Natalie’s side.

“That’s because it’s bullshit.” Nat spits.

“Oh yeah? What’s your plan, then?” Taissa snaps in an irritated tone. “I dunno, play like a fucking team and win? It’s worked so far.” Natalie exclaims, gripping onto your arm now. You allow it, beginning to zone out due to the arguing. Not knowing what to do to push it in another direction. “Everything works until it doesn’t.”

“And for the record, you smell like a wino. [Name] make sure your best friend gets her shit together.” Taissa steps a little closer and you furrow your brows. “You know what? Fuck this.” Your best friend storms off, letting go of your arm.

“That wasn’t cool, Tai. I also don’t think this is a good idea. The others wouldn’t agree to this and you know it.” You say before following after Natalie in a hurry. Not hearing what the other three have decided on. Feeling incredibly disappointed in your teammate’s choice of words against Natalie.

“Okay, circle up!” Coach Ben Scott whistles as he jogs onto the field. The girls all gather up to him. “JV’s gonna help us out with a little scrimmage today. Coach Martinez had to take care of a family thing. So grab a pinny from Misty and let’s get started.” Ben explains and as the girls begin to do as told, Laura Lee speaks up. “Excuse me, Coach Scott? Shouldn’t we say a prayer first?”

A few girls' eyes roll but you smile softly in her direction. You don’t mind Laura Lee’s religiousness, it’s sweet. She’s polite and respectful about it. She just wants the best for others.

“It’s just a scrimmage, Laura Lee.” He starts but based on her expression in return he lets out a sigh. “Sure. Knock yourself out.” The team then forms a circle, heads bowed and hands joined together.

“Heavenly Father, let our efforts be fruitful, so that we may perform in ways glorious to you… May our hearts remain open and our bodies safe from harm. In your name we pray, amen.”

Due to this Scrimmage you’ve decided to play goalie on the other side. You’ve been observing everyone, especially Taissa and Allie. It’s not going in Taissa’s favor due to Natalie stopping it every time.

Taissa gets annoyed further, taking off her red pinny and throwing it aside. Jackie steps it but obviously it’s all inaudible to you.

They begin to play and Taissa is now pressuring Allie. Allie jumps for a header and Taissa instinctively juts her foot out, catching Allie’s ankle as she comes back down.

All the way on the other side of the field you can hear the sickening, almost deafening snap to Allie’s leg which causes her to collapse. Everyone runs to the girl. She cries out, Lottie screams.

You head to Van who was throwing up, You make sure her hair is out of her face. “Shit,” you mutter, making sure to avoid looking at the girl on the grass. “C’mon.” You tell Van once she calms down a bit. “Let’s get away from here.” You frown, helping her stand up straight as she wipes her mouth.

“That was a lot of fucking blood.” She comments and you hum in response. “Did you see that shit?”

“Yup, bone out the body and everything.” You huff, opening the door to go into the locker room. “You’re not affected by it?” She asks and you sit her down and go get your water bottle.

“Nah, I’ve seen worse.” You mumble, handing it over and she raises a brow. “You could’ve just gotten mine, ya know?” She asks and you shrug. “I saw you have it with you out on the field so I don’t think so.”

“Oh,” Van’s shoulders fell. “Mhm, just drink. You were out in the sun and then threw up. I’m sure you’re extremely dehydrated.”

Van goes to say something but then the door swings open, the others coming in. “Holy shit that was so gross!”

“That was insane!”

A bunch of girls comment and you press your lips together. Plopping down beside the redhead. “This water just tastes like vomit.” She cringes and you chuckle. “I might have a granola bar, hold on.” You head back over to your locker, digging through your backpack.

But once the Seniors entered the locker room they all grew quiet and on edge. You wanted to laugh at it but instead ignored everyone as you handed your granola bar over to Van, sitting back down with her. “Thanks,” she whispers, opening the wrapper and taking a single bite before drinking the water again.

Taissa sat by herself, everyone avoiding eye contact except for you who was observing everyone. Finding humor in a horrible situation. What you didn’t notice was the person beside you staring at you. Practically burning a hole in your face. Witnessing the curvature of your lips each time you found something funny in your head. Making her want to laugh as well. It was such an awkward situation.

“I know we’re all worried about Allie. But I really think we need to focus on the positive right now. It might not be as bad as it looks.” Jackie’s voice cuts through the tension, earning everyone’s attention now.

“You could see her fucking bones, Jackie. I’m pretty sure it’s exactly as bad as it looks.” Natalie interjects and you nod your head with a sorry expression towards your captain. “Oh god. I think I’m gonna puke again..” Van holds her stomach and you rub her back. “Focus on something else.” You quietly tell her. “Try to picture something you enjoy.”

“I mean, we’re still a team. And we still have each other. And…” Jackie tries to recover and give hope to everyone but it seems to be a fruitless attempt.

“And we have Jesus.” Laura Lee helpfully says and you bite your bottom lip trying not to let out a laugh. “This wasn’t exactly a big win for the power of prayer, Tammy Faye.” Lottie scoffs. “The Lord works in mysterious wa-” A bang of a locker cuts her off. Your eyes shoot to your best friend who had been the one to do it, stalking out of the room.

You then finally let go as you can’t hold it any longer. Your chest shaking as you laugh silently, you had to bend down because of it. “Hey, you okay?” A hand lands on you, only making you laugh harder.

“I- I’m fine!” You wipe your tears. “Sorry, sorry.” You take a breather. The sudden empathy you had gained had dispersed just as easily. “You’re seriously laughing right now?” Shauna questions and you nod your head.

“This is so stupid!” You giggle. “Everyone is upset. I can clearly see that.” You stand up.

“But it doesn’t matter, we’re going to kick ass at nationals. Yes it’s unfortunate what happened to Allie. But there’s nothing we can do now!” You laugh out. “Nothing!” You throw your hands up.

Taissa and Van were smiling up at you, trying not to join your giggle fit.

You turn to Van. “I gotta go though. Finish the water, you can give it back whenever. I have more.” You grab your bags. “Make sure to drink more too, don’t want to be too dehydrated.” You winked, heading out of the room. Leaving the others kind of curious about your reaction you just had to everything.

As you weren’t even thinking about it. Just making sure you head to your moms car before being lectured about taking so long.

“You ready for tonight?” Natalie’s voice sounds over the phone line and you smile. “Yes, I’m ready to let loose before nationals.” You groan, keeping the phone up to your ear with your shoulder as you do your mascara.

“What are you wearing?” She asks. “Mm trying to get in my pants are you?” You joke.

“Possibly.” The both of you laugh.

“But seriously, what you wearing, miss caregiver?” She repeats and you let out a gasp. “Oh don’t even!” You roll your eyes even though she can’t see it.

“What? That you totally have a random thing for Vanessa Palmer!?” She cackles at your antics and you let out a large breath of air. “I don’t have a thing for her, oh my gosh.” You hide your face in your hands. “I was just helping her out!” You defend yourself.

“Right, right. Let’s see you do it again tonight too.” Natalie comments and before you can say something again she speaks up. “Now please just tell me what you are wearing.” She’s the only person who knows about you being… gay. Liking women and such.

You felt lonely with the thoughts in your head. Thoughts that only kept getting louder and louder. You had to tell someone and so you went to your best friend. Even though you didn’t know her stance of homosexuality you knew her love for you. You knew she’d understand and stay.

“Okay, okay. I’m just wearing that one outfit we bought at the thrift store with tights.” You stand from your vanity. “Oh! Jackie said that Jeff can pick me up. I don’t need that ride anymore.” You say absentmindedly while fixing one last thing with your fit.

“Really? You’re gonna third wheel with Jackie and Jeff?”

“Well Shauna will be there. So not really.” You knew either way you’re going to be witnessing something and become a third wheel but you didn’t mind it. You could ignore it.

A honk outside interrupts your next sentence. “Oh, speak of the devil. I’ll see you at the party. Love you!!!” You wait for her to say it back before slamming the phone down and rushing downstairs with your tote bag.

“Bye mom! I’ll be back tonight!” You say loud enough for her to hear but not too loud to wake up your siblings or be heard in her phone call. You scurry out the front door and wave to the three in the car.

His headlights were so bright though you couldn’t even see them inside of the vehicle. Jeff rolls his window down. “Wow, I’ve never seen you without jeans on.” He commentates and you smirk. “Yeah, yeah. Don’t get used to it.” You climb into the backseat with Shauna.

“He’s right, you look so hot right now!” Jackie contorts her body to look back at you. You scoff out a laugh, “thanks, so do you.” You plop down and buckle up immediately after. Clicking the button then doing it a second and third time.

The ride was smooth, almost a little boring. Shauna kept eyeing you, wanting to ask about your reaction from earlier. Your reaction to Allie’s bone being out of her body. And all you could do was laugh. It had to be a nervous thing right?

You stared out the window, not paying any mind to the glances. Just wanting to let loose with your best friend.

You aren’t really close to the other girls. Sure they’re nice and they look up to you in sport. But outside of it, you feel out of place. Jackie used to try to be your friend in the beginning. Attempt at winning you as someone close like she is with Shauna. But it never worked. Your social awkwardness won. After two years she finally gave up.

Sometimes she still offers things like tonight. Making Jeff give you a ride to the party tonight since she overheard you talking about not really having one with Lottie.

“Alright we’re here!” The car halts into park, and you unbuckle your seatbelt- once this time. Everyone climbed out of the car. You wiggled the handle three times before shutting the door.

“I’ll see you guys, thanks for the ride Jeff!” You patted his shoulder before going into the crowd of people. Knowing exactly where your best friend will be.

“Nat!” You call out, pushing through a few people to get to Goth and your best friend who stands by the bonfire. “[Name]! C’mere, try this.” Goth shoves a cup in your hand and you raise a brow. “What is this?”

“Just try it [Nickname].” Natalie snickers and so you do but immediately regret it right afterward. Spitting the liquid out. “The fuck is that?” You rub the drink from your chin, scrunching your face in disgust.

Before they can answer, Smartass is running up to the both of you. “You guys, my cousin hooked us up.” He huffs out of breath, your eyes flicker between him and Natalie, confused by what he meant. “You got it?”

“Got what?”

Smartass grins, holding up several tiny squares of paper printed with the anarchy symbol. “I have six words, my friend. Lucy in the sky with Diamonds.”

“That is, like, literally the least efficient way to say that.” Goth scoffs and you giggle. Natalie snatches one of the tabs from his palm. “Dude. Don’t you both leave for the Olympics or whatever tomorrow?”

“Yeah. We do.” She gives them a look, almost daring them to say something else as you hold yourself. A little uncomfortable but you stay to make sure your best friend is safe. Not knowing what else to do. Yeah you plan on drinking, maybe a joint later on but not shrooms.

You watch as she takes a hit, passing it to another and you glance around. You were beginning to second guess yourself on coming tonight. This isn’t really your scene and if you wanted to let loose you could’ve done so alone and in your room while listening to music and painting.

“I’m gonna go find Lottie.” You tell Natalie, saying your quick goodbye to the other two. “I’ll meet up with you in a sec.” Natalie calls after you, you don’t even turn around to acknowledge it. Knowing she most likely will forget that statement. Or probably already did if the drugs hit.

It was strange, it was loud, people were talking and dancing but you felt the opposite. Quiet and lonesome even in the crowd. Gently moving past bodies that didn’t even realize you were there. Your eyes scan the area patiently. “[Name]!” You hear beside you, your eyebrows furrow and there’s Taissa. Waiting in line for a beer.

“Hey, Tai!” You wave, meeting up with her. “Want a drink?” She offers for you to wait with her which catches you off guard.

It shouldn’t because Taissa and you used to be close in middle school before going separate ways entering high school. “Would love one actually.” You curtly laugh, bumping into her arm as you stand with her. “You know what I did earlier wasn’t on purpose, right?” She asks and you look at her with a concerned expression. Her own face showed remorse and fear?

“I would hope so.” You chuckle, her lips fidget upwards a little bit but not by much making you suck in a breath to get serious for her.

“Tai, I do not believe you did that on purpose. It was a freak accident.” It was something you truly thought, why would Taissa purposely break a girl's leg. “Thank you.” She sighs, her arm looping with yours.

“I guess I needed reassurance.” She mutters. “We all do sometimes.” Your hip bumps hers and she lays her head on yours.

“I admire your resilience, Tai. It can’t be easy knowing you fucking cripled someone today.” A voice speaks from behind the both of you, your heart drops at the callus words that come from Shauna. “Cool. Good talk.” Taissa begins to move herself from the situation before it escalates. You grab two drinks for the both of you. Going to follow after.

“Just admit you did it on purpose.” Shauna folds her arms and you step between them. “Shauna you’re drunk. Knock it off.” You warn her.

“This isn’t about you, [Name]. Step out of it.” She attempts to move you but you stand still with a now scrunched face. “Shauna, stop.” You feel people watching now. “You’re a sociopath.” Shauna points to the girl behind you. “Hey, Shauna, take it easy.” Van comes over, putting a hand on Shauna’s shoulder who only shrugs it off.

“Good news, you guys. We don’t have to worry about the Allie problem anymore. Taissa fixed it for us.” She’s on a roll tonight, and you were getting frustrated. “What’s she talking about?” Laura Lee comes up to the group. You hadn’t even noticed your other teammates were showing up.

“She’s talking about Taissa’s little plan.” Natalie joins and you want to cover your face. This is not what you guys need. An argument before nationals. “Please. Since when do you give a shit anyway? Don’t you have a bong to hit or a dick to suck or something?” Taissa snaps and you watch as your best friend’s face contorts.

“Hey. Don’t talk to her that way.” Shauna stands up for Natalie as you stand there frozen. It was getting too much. Too much confrontation.

“Oh, fuck off, Shauna. I don’t need you to defend me. Last I checked, you were fine with the whole freeze her out strategy.” Natalie shuts the drunken girl down.

“Seriously, what are you guys talking about?” Laura Lee chimes in once again. “Shut the fuck up Laura Lee!” The three who had been arguing all shouted at her.

Your chest tightened at the loudness of their tones. Everyone starts to fight, all yelling at once. Everyone interrupts one another. You stay silent, not knowing how to calm the situation. Thinking calmly, you were normally level headed. Taking a deep breath you drop your drink that hadn’t even gotten sipped on. Using your pointer and middle fingers on both hands and whistling loudly. Scaring the group.

Noticing Jackie also coming into the scene. “Alright, ENOUGH!” You yell, the two of you thrusting yourselves into the middle of everyone.

Jackie crosses her arms, glaring at everyone while she stands beside you. “Yellowjackets, with me.” She orders, stomping off into the woods with you practically connected at her hip. “What the hell happened?” She whispers and you just look at her before looking ahead.

The team stands around as Jackie paces in front of them. You are standing still, sizing everyone up with disappointment. Even towards your best friend who definitely felt it radiating off of you.

“I don’t know what the fuck that was, but I do know that it’s over. We’re about to go to Nationals, you guys. Nationals!” She exclaims. “And based on what I’m looking at right now, we might as well not even bother getting on that plane.”

She pauses as she thinks for a moment, going back to your side and pursing out her lips. “Alright, everybody line up.” She directs but nobody moves.

“She said to line up!” You express with irritation, everyone is surprised by your tone, and by reflex they do as told. “I’m going to talk to you like adults. Is that okay with you?” Jackie asks, causing everyone to smile at Coach Martinez’s catchphrase.

“Coach is always telling us that you can’t win without three things. Talent. Trust. And Respect. I mean, Coach also talks a lot of bullshit, but I’m pretty sure he’s right about that. So here’s what we’re gonna do. I want each of you to go down this line and say one nice- true- thing about every other girl on this team.” Jackie does her speech and it leaves the others confused on if she’s actually serious. Exchanging looks with one another.

“What is this, fucking Girl Scout camp?” Taissa is the first to speak up and you roll your eyes trying not to laugh.”[Name] and I will go first.” Jackie looks at you and you boredly do the same. “[Name] you are weirdly mysterious, I think everyone can agree-”

“I thought you were supposed to say nice things.” You look her up and down to which everyone laughs at. Even her.

“I’m getting there.” She giggles, “you’re mysterious, I feel like I know almost nothing about you. But somehow you’re the most comforting. Even when you’re laughing at the fact that a girl's bone was out of her body today.” She tells you truthfully to which you smile, slightly amused thinking back to earlier in the day.

“Jackie, you’re incredibly persistent and true to yourself. I respect that.” It was short but it meant a lot to the girl in front of you. Her eyes seem to light up at your words and she grins. “Do you want to continue or should I?” She quietly asks and you shrug. “I’ll give it a try.” You wink.

Heading right to Taissa.

“Tai- Taissa… Miss Turner if you will-” “Oh my god, shut up.” She laughs and you scrunch your nose with a smile. “You are incredibly headstrong, you fight for what you believe in and it’s very influential. I love it.”

Moving onto the next, which is Laura Lee. “You’re very sweet, keeping to your faith even though others push you down. You don’t let it get to you, and I admire that heavily.” You take her hand gently to which she grins at you. “Thank you, [Name].” She rubs the back of your hand with her thumb.

“Lottie Matthews.” You look up at her, grabbing her shoulders. “You are a breath of fresh air. I enjoy the talks we have on the field while we’re getting ready. You’re so comforting sometimes I think you could manipulate me into something crazy.” She rolls her eyes but mouths a thank you as you move to the next person- your best friend.

“Nat, I don’t think I have to say much I haven’t said already. You’re my fucking ride or die even if I’ve done something so fucking stupid.”

Natalie blows a kiss at you and you catch it to place it on your heart very dramatically. “Shauna, you might be the most interesting person I’ve ever met. Do I know specifically why? Not really but I know you’re amazing and I think that’s a good part of it.” You say. Shauna is giving you a look that’s almost unreadable but then she laughs.

“I could say the same thing about you.”

“And lastly, Vanessa Palmer.” You sigh out, cheesing ear to ear. “Say that like it’s a bad thing.” The redhead nudges you. “It might be, you never know.” You joke causing her to gasp, gently slapping your arm.

“Okay, okay, I will say you’re probably the funniest person ever. Your film knowledge is also impeccable. I know that when I need a good laugh I can come to you.”

“You seem to laugh pretty easily, but I’m glad I’m up there as the funniest.” Van says and you press your lips together trying to prove her wrong but you can’t help the little snicker that escapes. “Yeah, it’s not hard to make me laugh.” You beam.

As you go back to stand with Jackie you hear the others start to shyly say nice things to one another. You glance to see Jackie proud of herself for this idea. She heads over to Shauna and you stand by yourself. Observing the others, even though the argument got you here you were glad for the outcome.

Your eyes flicker over to Natalie who’s complimenting Lottie. “Lottie, you never talk shit unless someone really deserves it. Also, I really like your pilgrim hat.” She then starts to giggle before staring off in the sky. “Um. Okay?” Lottie is definitely not wearing a hat. You grab your best friend's arm.

“You want to stay the night tonight?” You ask her and she looks over at you confused at first but then lights up excitedly. “Yes, sleep over!! [Name] where’d you get that tattoo?” She suddenly grabs your wrist and you shake your head. You knew tonight was going to be long. Definitely not letting loose like you had hoped.

You sit Natalie by the fire and drop beside her, letting her lean her body on you as she’s on a trip. Not seeing the pair of eyes on the both of you. The pair of eyes that have a ping of jealousy within them.

You close your eyes, leaning your head on Natalie’s just resting there.

You don’t know how much time has passed but you know you somehow fell asleep and Natalie woke you up by muttering “Misty.” You grumble, stretching out your body. “Misty? What?” You ask, severely confused.

“I swear I saw her, over there?” She points to an edge of darkness of the woods. You squint your eyes but see absolutely nothing. “Just part of your trip.” You rub her back. “Let’s go, we gotta find someone to give us a ride because I’m sure Jeff did not wait for me.” You stand up, shooting a hand out to her. She takes it, lifting herself up.

2021

A knock on your door sounds and you groan. Who the fuck could it be? You peer through the peephole, and your heart sinks at who’s there. “Shit.” You mumble before swinging the door open.

“Shauna?” You furrow your brows and she smiles awkwardly. “Hey, I tried texting you but it went straight to voicemail.” She rubs the back of her neck. The two of you lived in the same vicinity so it’s not a rare sight. Of course the two of you still talk occasionally.

“What’s up? Something going on with Callie?” You move so she can come in but instead she just stands in front of you.

“Come to dinner with me?” She tilts her head and you check the watch on your wrist. The time read “10:15.”

“You’re lucky it’s my day off tomorrow.” You grab your jacket from the hook along with your keys. Moving out of the house to shut the door right behind you.

“Who are we meeting?” You cross your arms as she drinks a cup of coffee. The door chimes, cutting off your question and the two of you look up to see Taissa. She slides in the booth across from the both of you. “Are you kidding me?” You tense up, getting irritated. “[Name]-”

“No, Shauna, I can't believe you.” You push at her to move but she doesn’t budge. “Get up or I’ll climb over, I can’t believe you didn’t tell me we were meeting with her.” You spoke with venom mixed in your voice.

“[Name], please.” Shauna pleads with you, as you’re about to get up and climb over the booth. You glare down at her then peep over to Taissa who has an anxious expression. “Just twenty minutes.” She whispers.

You let out a huff of air. “Twenty and after that I better not see her again.” You plop back down in the seat. Taissa doesn’t even say anything to you, looking right at Shauna.

“A reporter approached us today.” Shauna slides Jessica’s business card across the table. “She said she was with the local paper, but I googled her, and she wasn’t credited in any bylines. Anywhere.” Shauna explains the situation. On your way over here you had already told her your experience at your job.

“These people come out of the woodwork every few years, on some anniversary or another. You know that. There’s no reason to think this is any different.” Taissa tries to reassure the both of you and your eyes stare at her face. Angrily taking in her features. “I can think of a few. I thought we agreed. Say no more than we have to, stay out of the public eye.”

“Shauna…”

“I saw you on fucking television, Tai. If someone’s digging… we’re all fucked. Take care of it.” She orders and Taissa looks over to you who boredly nods. “Take care of it.” You repeat.

“Have either of you talked to Nat?” Shauna suddenly asks and you frown. “She’s in rehab.” Taissa answers. “Again.” You add in. “And there’s still no sign of the others?”

“No. Not for months on my end.” Taissa’s eyes then flicker over to you who shrug. “Haven’t heard from anyone except for Misty who creepily knew about my mother passing.” You say.

“Then we’re fine. As long as nobody does anything crazy, we have nothing to worry about.” Shauna takes both of your hands. You bite at your bottom lip. Nervous about this sudden Jessica Cruz.

After the three of you talk, you only add in to be an asshole towards Taissa. You guys exit the building.

“Oh, I gotta use the bathroom real quick. I’ll be back. Here’s the keys.” She hands the keys over to you and you tiredly take them. The two of you watch as she walks back into the Diner.

“You know I’m sorry [Name]-” you shake your head before she can continue, putting a hand up to stop her. “I don’t want to hear it, Taissa.’ You tell her, walking over to Shauna’s van. “It was a mistake, I promise. I would never intentionally-”

“Taissa, please. Stop it.” You sternly say, putting your foot down. “I don’t want to hear it. I really, really don’t.”

“I’m over the situation but I cannot and will not find it in my heart to forgive you right now. Who knows. It might change but at this moment. In this age of life I want you to fuck off so hard.” You were smiling, hating this feeling of being confronted. “I just- I miss you, [Name].” She admits and you lick your lips trying not to laugh.

“It will pass.” You open the passenger door of the van and climb in. Slightly slamming it shut causing the woman to jump. She stood there for a moment before her shoulders dropped, feeling defeated and heading back to her own vehicle.

1996

“Are you sure everything is going to be okay while I’m gone mom?” You question as you are walking both your bags to the front door. You hear your mom snort in disbelief. “Of course everything will be okay. I’m the adult here.” She says defensively and since you’re facing away you roll your eyes.

“That’s not what I meant.” You murmur.

“I just help out with dinner and I know you don’t like cooking.” You partially lied. You’ve been helping with your younger siblings for years ever since your father passed away when Tilly was only six months old.

“We’ll be fine, [Name].” She comes over and plays with the necklace you wore around your neck. The charm given by your father a year before he passed.

A dragonfly, he always called you his little dragon bug. It was a weird nickname but when you were little the two of you went fishing and that’s what you called every big bug. Freaking out when a dragonfly landed on your shoulder.

“Sissy!! Don’t leave yet!” A little voice screams as she comes down the stairs and you move away from your mom. “Tilly Billy! I wouldn’t leave without saying goodbye!” You crouch down to her level and she jumps at you with a tight embrace. “I’m going to miss you so much!” She cries out making you jut out your bottom lip.

“Awe, Tilly I’ll be back in 4 days. Don’t you even worry.” You ruffle her hair and she pouts.

“That’s still so long.” She pulls away and you see tears actually falling down her little face. “It will go by so fast, I promise.” You kiss her cheek and then you hear more little steps coming your way and you look over to your little brother who was rubbing his eyes tiredly. “Will you get me a souvenir?” He asks and you let out a laugh.

“Yeah, what do you want Theo?” You pull him into a hug after standing back up.

“A magnet.” He grumbles tiredly since he had just gotten up. “Alright, I’ll get you, your magnet.” You kiss the top of his head, then hear a car honk outside.

“That’s my ride, I’ll see you guys in a couple of days!” You give Tilly one last tight embrace and then kiss your mom’s cheek goodbye. “Be safe, [Name].” She says and you give a tight lipped smile before leaving, shutting the big wooden door behind you.

Stepping onto the plane was a weird feeling, Lottie’s parents are definitely rich. “Hey, you’re here.” Natalie pokes her head up from her seat and you hurry over to her. “Heyy, how are you feeling? You left like super early.” You plop down on the seat next to her. “I forgot I had to get my bags for the flight, did you see the note? And I’m definitely hungover.” She snickers, and you follow suit.

“Yeah I saw it, you’re so romantic.” You do little air kisses.

“Always for you.” She does it back.

You unzip your backpack and take out a walkman to show to her. “If you want to listen to anything during this flight.” You grin. “Beautiful.” She claps her hands and you nod your head.

And as everyone gets on the plane and you all sit quietly, the air pressure makes it hard for you to hear one another to begin with. Well for you it makes it extremely harder for you. Every now and then you’ll glance around at the other teammates. It was boring but the nerves and excitement of the game somehow made the time pass by faster.

You didn’t even understand what was said by the captain every time he spoke. Of course it was probably something important because the cabin gets darker and a terrifying roar erupts from the plane. The turbulence shakes the plane so aggressively that it wakes Natalie. Her hand finding yours.

You can slightly hear Laura Lee muttering as the oxygen masks drop down. “Shit, what the fuck is happening?” You think out loud, getting the mask on. Then helping Natalie get hers on. “Open the shade.” You mutter. “Wh-what?” Natalie panics.

“Open- open the shade.” You reach over and shove it open. Seeing silhouettes of the mountains extremely closer than they should be. Then getting closer. And closer until the plane finally makes impact.

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urcoolgf · 3 months ago

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THE WEEKND x RAFE BLURB

¡ sexual content !

listening to the weeknd && just getting major rafe cameron vibes—like he is so the type to have a sex playlist with just the weeknd && he definitely listens to it while working out n stuff

✭ ‘the morning’ would definitely be one of his favorites because it’s about sex and money. he’d love the way the bass poured through the built-in speakers in his room while he was on top of you—almost drowning out your sounds, but he’d never turn it loud enough for that. he loved hearing you going totally dumb on his dick.

trilogy is for sure his favorite album, it just radiates his energy. when you first met he unapologetically made you listen to the weeknd nonstop. you didn’t mind—these ‘listening sessions’ normally ended with him inside you anyway.

✭ looking over at you while 'the party & the after party’ played over the radio made him absolutely crazy. there was just something so sexy about you listening to his music—his favorite artist—that made you 100x hotter.

he’d just drive you guys around, listening until his pants got so tight that he had to pull over wherever he was, and fuck you in the car. if you were feeling nice, you’d give him road head, and he’d swear he was ascending.

✭ even when you weren’t over, or he wasn’t doing anything, he’d still have the weeknd playing lowly through his bedroom speakers. he’d usually end up picturing the way you looked boucing on top of him, and end up with his dick in his hands as ‘coming down’ sounded through the walls.

starboy was his go-to workout album though. he would just loop it the entire duration of his workout. his motivation: the way you looked, and the sounds you’d make when you would drag your clit against his abs—he’d flex, and un-flex making you moan on top of him.

✭ if there was ever a moment it wasn’t playing, you’d grab his phone, and shuffle his playlist just to get him going. he secretly loved when you acted all bratty like that, but he loved turning you into a pathetic, babbling, cock-drunk mess even more while ‘party monster’ played in the background.

an: literally started this yesterday && finished it today even though i have like seven other (better) works (&& some requests) in progress right now… anyways… enjoy.ᐟ

JOIN MY TAGLIST

TAGS .ᐟ @yktayy9669 @drewsswifeyy @drewrry @frankoceanluvr11 @dearestmillls @icaqttt @lynoriax @hpboysslut2707 @stoned-writer @angvl3tears @beabafreakbee @ltristessedureratoujours @totalswag @vanessa-rafesgirl @rafegetinmybed @faiyaz555

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alpoocka · 9 months ago

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I love @queens-nightmare AU so much!!! Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

You can call this a review with funny pictures, because I want to highlight and share everything I like

Let's go!

I am honestly amazed by the work done, this amazing sometimes meticulous attention to detail and explanations and different types of media for the implementation of the AU! I can't plan well, so this looks unrealistically cool to me.

I enjoy watching the characters here, all charismatic cuties!

It's nice to see a second chance for this long-suffering trio and the revelation of the Moonjumper. The entire Subcon forest works through psychological trauma in essence ... Since there are many AUs, I like to see what distinguishes one from another: more is shown and explained about the psychological pressure on Vanessa in childhood, but at the same time her emotional intelligence is at its best. Snatcher is more confident…

.😎

.🤓🕶️🤏

during his lifetime than in some other AUs, it's cool to see this as a basis and prerequisite for who he will become later. This is not a coordinate change, cool! And I love watching every moment when he acts like a nerd, it's wonderful. MJ is such an ancient child.. I got nostalgic when I saw that MJ writes letters the wrong way, I think many wrote like that in childhood and this is a very cool find!

Oh, and I like the revelation of the inhabitants of the Subconites, the old lady Elder sank into my heart!

In short, I really love this AU for the characters, the performance and the lore!!!

I hope I haven't forgotten anything! Sweet dreams!

#ahit #a hat in time #queen’s nightmare au #ahit vanessa #ahit snatcher #ahit moonjumper

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littlelamy · 4 months ago

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totally understand if you aren’t able to write this, can you do something about rafe questioning readers view on christanity? and how she’s just very skeptic about it. rafe just keeps pressing her about it and reader snaps about it until he finally just drops it, can be angst tyty

lamy notes: i'm okay with writing this!

rafe doesn’t bring it up to start a fight. not really. but he’s always been the type to press, to push, to pick at things just to see how they’ll unfold in front of him. and tonight, for whatever reason, it’s this.

"so wait," he says, turning his head to look at you, brows pinched. "you don't believe in any of it?"

you're sitting on his bed, scrolling through your phone, and at first, you don’t even think he’s talking to you. but when he nudges your knee, expectant, you sigh.

"i don’t know," you mutter, barely looking up. "not really."

he makes a face. "not really? so, what, you think it’s all bullshit?"

you roll your eyes, tossing your phone aside. "i didn’t say that."

"you kinda did."

"rafe."

"no, i just—i don't get it," he says, propping himself up on one elbow, looking at you like he’s actually trying to understand. "so, like, when you were a kid, you never believed?"

"i mean, i tried," you admit, stretching your legs out. "but it just... never made sense to me."

he frowns. "it’s not supposed to make sense. it’s about faith."

you sigh, rubbing your temples. this is already starting to feel like something you don’t have the energy for. "okay."

but he doesn’t drop it.

"like, what do you think happens when we die?"

you shrug. "i don’t know. i haven’t died yet."

"you don’t think there’s a heaven?"

"i don’t know, rafe."

"so that’s it?" his voice is getting sharper now, more insistent. "you just don’t believe in anything?"

your jaw tightens. "why do you care?"

he scoffs. "because it's fucking weird."

that does it. your chest tightens, your vision goes hot, and before you can stop yourself, you're snapping.

"you wanna know what’s fucking weird?" you spit, sitting up straight, glaring at him. "how you keep pressing me about something that doesn’t affect you at all."

his lips part slightly, but you don’t give him the chance to speak.

"i'm not out here shitting on your beliefs, rafe. i’m not telling you what you should or shouldn't put your faith in. so why the fuck are you making it your mission to dissect mine?"

silence. he blinks. opens his mouth. closes it again.

his jaw ticks, and then he just—lets out a breath.

“whatever,” he mutters, rolling onto his back, throwing an arm over his face. “forget it.” but you know him. you know he’s still thinking about it.

taglist: @namelesslosers @maybanksangel @averyoceanblvd @iknowdatsrightbih @rafesheaven @anamiad00msday @ivysprophecy @wearemadeofstardust0 @rafesangelita @rafedaddy01 @bakugouswaif @skywalker0809 @vanessa-rafesgirl @evermorx89 @outerhills @ditzyzombiesblog @slavicangelmuah @alivinggirl @rafesgreasycurtainbangs @rafesbabygirlx @drewsephrry @lil-sparklqueen

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rosemariiaa · 8 months ago

Text

~Casual~

pairing: Paige x Oc

a/n: i need to fix my posting schedule lol.. this is my first collab fic with the lovely karly @makethemhoesmad , part 2 will be on her page!! happy reading lovelies 💌

themes: angst, sexual content, language

Enjoy!!!

I was in the locker room, mind all over the place. Honestly, I hadn’t been this unfocused in ages. And it wasn’t just me who noticed—KK and Azzi were side-eyeing me from across the room, probably wondering why I’d been so out of it. Then I heard Ice laugh under her breath and mutter, “Paige, you’re so pussy whipped.”

It was brutal, but she wasn’t wrong.

The buzz in my pocket had me scrambling. A message from Vanessa.

We’d been “hooking up” for the past few months—nothing serious, just something casual, atleast that’s what she tends to remind me about all the time. That’s how it started, anyway. But for me, it felt like it was turning into something more, whether I wanted it to or not.

V: u busy? come over?

I didn’t even hesitate, typing back a quick, On my way.

———

I was out of there in record time, showered and changed, and at Vanessa’s place within twenty minutes flat. My heart was already racing when she opened the door, leaning against the frame in my shirt and black panties. Damn.

She didn’t waste a second, pulling me inside by the collar and crashing her mouth against mine. All the frustration, the waiting—it was all there. In moments like this, it was easy to forget that she kept me at arm’s length, that I wanted more than just a physical connection. But when she had me like this, I didn’t even care.

“Missed you, V,” I murmured against her lips, hands trailing down her waist, then down further gripping her ass.

She smirked, threading her fingers through my hair as she leaned back, her breath hitching. “Shut up and show me.”

Her lips found mine again, urgent. I let her hands slide down my back, pulling me closer as I trailed kisses along her neck, whispering, “You have no idea how much you’ve been messing with me.”

Vanessa let out a quiet laugh, breathless, leaning into my touch. “Paige, you think too much,” she murmured, tipping her head back sighing. “Can’t help it,” I whispered, grazing my teeth against her collarbone before meeting her gaze, something hungry in her eyes. I tightened my grip, keeping her close, practically pinning her to the wall. “You make it impossible to focus baby.”

Her only response was to pull me back into a kiss, sliding her warm tongue to meddle with mine. I moan softly into the kiss, lifting her up and carrying her to the couch. She sank down, tugging me with her, eyes dark and inviting. I know that look. That look she gives me when she wants me to shut up and take her.

I lean down, pulling her shirt up realizing she’s not wearing a bra. Fuck. I take a moment to admire her perky tots and her pink hardened nipples, she shakes them a little signaling me to move closer. I move closer wrapping my lips around her nipple while sliding my hand up from her stomach to her other breast. I swirl my tongue around it making her shudder and sigh as she moves her hand into my hair. “Mmm..more.” she pleads.

I move my mouth from her breasts, looking up at her as i trail open mouthed kisses down the valley of her tits, down to her stomach, until i reach her very dampen panties. She bucks her hips up, the look in her eyes telling me to dive straight in and eat her like my last meal. I run my two middle fingers up and down her clothed pussy. “Paige..stop teasing.” she says, knuckles turning white as she grips the couch.

I oblige, sliding her panties off and taking in her glistening core. I press my palm against her clit. “God, Paige,” she breathes, trying to grind against it. I run my middle finger up and down her wet folds as she bites her lip hard enough to draw blood. “Mmm fuck ma, who got you this wet? I smirk, clearly enjoying the effect I have on her, and I lean in closer, “Y-you baby please..inside.” She pleads.

I slip one finger in. “This good?” I ask, knowing damn well it’s not. Vanessa shakes her head and I smirk, sliding in another, slow and steady, listening to how wet she is and how beautiful she moans. I could listen to that shit on repeat.

“Still not enough ma?” I murmur, cocky as hell, adding a third without waiting for her answer. A gasp slipping out before she can stop it. “Fuck!” she yells. I keep my eyes trained on her, curling my fingers just right , just the way I know she likes.

I lean in , my breath warm against her ear. "Yeah, thought so," I whisper.

My grip on her waist tightens as she arches her back up moaning, watching her struggle to keep up with the pace as I fuck her faster. "Daddy..." a soft moan in my ear.

My eyes flash, and I raise an eyebrow, "say it again," she brings her hand down to her clit rubbing it in tight slow circles, moaning at the sound of my fingers going in and out her dripping pussy. I’m so wet right now. "Fuck daddy..mmph feels so good please faster." My fingers push deeper, stretching out her tight hole with each thrust, slow at first, but quickly picking up speed as I watch her fall apart.

"Yeah, just like that baby." My voice dark, commanding, and I can see her barely keeping her balance, her body moving faster, desperate for every bit I’m giving her. My hand slides up to her neck, making her look at me as I push my fingers in deeper. Vanessa grips my shoulders, moaning, loud.

"Paige, please..." she manages, barely recognizing her own voice. My smirk just grows, fingers are moving faster now, curling to her spot, stretching her out so much.

"That's it, baby. Just let go, cum for me. You can do it," I babbled. Her breaths came faster, mingling with the squelching of my fingers thrusting in and out. "Paige, I... I can't," she breathed, but it sounded like a lie.

"C'mon V. I want to feel you, want to taste you. Just for me mama."

With each thrust, I could feel her teetering closer to the edge. "I'm trying," she gasped, her voice shaking as I moved her fingers deeper and faster . "I promise it'll feel so good. All over my fingers, just like that." I cooed and I can hear the desperation in my voice.

It was like a dam breaking.Her pussy clenching violently around my fingers. Her hips started to stutter as I curled my longest finger deeper massaging that gummy spot. Waves of pleasure washed over her, body trembling as shs fell apart under me, juices dripping on the couch h and my palm.

"Fuck, that's it," I murmured, fingers still moving in her as I guided her through it. "So good for me. You did it, baby."

Vanessa could barely respond. All I could think was how fucking good it felt to make her cum. For me.

———-

When it’s finally over, we’re both breathing heavily, tangled together in a haze. For a second, I think she might let me stay, that this time could be different. But then she’s reaching for her shirt, slipping it back on, a familiar guarded look settling on her face. And just like that, the walls are back up.

I wandered into the kitchen to wash my hands. The water ran cold, the silence between us loud. Once I was done, I turned around and spoke, "What're you doing later?"

She didn't even hesitate. "Hanging with my sister."

I shot her a side-eye. That was bullshit, and we both knew it. She was too quick with the excuse, not even trying to make it sound real. I smirked. "Sounds like bullshit to me."

She crossed her arms and shrugged, her face going a little tight. "Don't you have someone else to see? ! mean, I saw you after your game with that girl. What was her name again? Leah?"

My stomach twisted. She was bringing that up, huh?

It was funny how she could act like she didn't care about me, but then get all territorial when I wasn't looking.

"Seriously? You're bringing that up now?" I chuckled to mask the weird tension that was bubbling up in me.

"Yeah, I am," she snapped. "I don't like sharing Paige.”

The words hit me in a weird way. I hated and liked how possessive she could be, yet she wouldn't commit to anything. It didn't make sense. I could feel the pull between us, and the way she kept holding back while also keeping me at arm's length, all at once. It was frustrating as hell.

I looked at her, my voice dropping a little. "I don't share either. But I can't exactly do anything about that, can I?"

She was quiet for a second, her eyes shifting around the room before she shrugged again, like she didn't want to deal with the weight of what was just said.

"Tread lightly, okay?"

She was trying to put me in my place, make sure I knew who was "in charge". But it was fucking confusing, because she couldn't make up her mind about us. She wanted me, but she didn't want to admit it. And it drove me nuts.

Her face flickered for a second, and I could see she was holding back-just like always. "Fine. Enjoy your 'sister time' then."

We both knew what was really going on.

———-

A few nights later, I walked into Ted's with Azzi and KK, the noise of the bar flooding my senses. It was a usual after-game stop-loud, crowded, and full of people-but my mind wasn't on the win against Creighton. It was on something else entirely.

Someone else.

I didn't even have to look around to know where she was. My eyes found Vanessa almost instantly, like they always did. She was perched at the bar in a black leather romper, the zipper pulled just low enough to show off her tits, just enough to make my stomach twist. I couldn't help it. I wanted to walk up to her, grab her by the waist, and kiss her right there.

I wanted to feel her lips on mine again, to lose myself in the way she tasted, the way she felt.

But then, as I got closer, my heart slammed in my chest. I saw it.

Her arm was wrapped around Leah.

Leah. Fucking Leah.

I tried to keep my cool, to ignore the tight knot forming in my stomach, but the sight of them standing there, so close, it hurt. Leah had her hand on Vanessa's waist, while Vanessa? She was barely paying attention. She wasn't even looking at Leah.

Her eyes were darting around the room, scanning for... something. Or someone. Then, as if she sensed me from a mile away, her gaze finally landed on me.

"Paige!" Vanessa called out, her voice louder than it needed to be. Her smile wasn't a real one-it was forced, like she was trying to make everything seem normal. "What's up? What you doing here?"

I could feel the frustration bubbling up inside me, threatening to spill over. I didn't want to show her how much it hurt, but it fucking did. She was standing there with Leah, looking so unaffected, like she didn't give a damn about the mess she always left me in. I forced myself to respond, but it came out tighter than I expected.

"I'm here with Azzi and KK for a bit," I said, trying to sound nonchalant, but I knew the irritation was obvious. My voice was clipped, my jaw clenched. I couldn't hide it. The way she was acting-being so close with Leah, acting like nothing ever happened between us, like she wasn't the one who kept pulling me in and pushing me away-it was eating me alive.

Vanessa gave a little nod. "Yeah, well, me and Leah are heading to the bathroom. Catch you later."

She turned without another word, leaving me standing there, alone, feeling like the biggest fucking idiot.

I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, the ache in my chest spreading. Every time I thought I was getting a handle on this, every time I convinced myself I could just let it go, she did something like this. Every time, I found myself right back where I started-confused, angry, hurt.

I stood there for a long moment, my head spinning.

My eyes followed them as they walked away, Vanessa's back turned to me like she didn't even care. But I knew better. I knew how she worked. I could read her, even when she tried to hide it.

What the hell was I doing? What the fuck were we doing?

And right then, I wanted to scream. I wanted to ask her what the hell she wanted from me, why she kept doing this to me. But I didn't. I couldn't.

I hated how much I still wanted her. How every time she pulled away, I let her, and it fucking killed me.

And I hated how much llet her see the hurt in my eyes, even when I didn't say a word.

But she didn't look back. And that made everything even worse.

———-

a/n: posted at 4 but atleast i posted ayeeee!

taglist ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

@thaatdigitaldiary @patscorner @sierrale8ne @ohbueckers @absolutelydreadful @authentic-girl03 @mrsarnold

#fics #paige bueckers fic #paige x oc #karly 🎀#rosie moots #paige bueckers smut #paige bueckers #uconn wbb #rosie fics #asks ❣︎#rosie’s works 🎧⋆｡ °⋆

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leossmoonn · 2 years ago

Text

neighborly welcome | mike schmidt

summary - burnt cookies aren’t the only thing mike gives you

warnings / includes - reader is fem, natural time skips. lowk stalker/pervert mike, f oral, brief handjob, intercourse, after he worked at freddy’s, porn w/ plot

————

18+ below the cut

“you should get her a housewarming gift,” vanessa suggests.

mike’s body whips around from his perch at the window. “give who a housewarming gift?”

vanessa rolls her eyes and gets up off the couch. “the girl you’ve been stalking and are obviously in love with.”

he scoffs, the tips of his ears burning. “i’m not stalking, and i am definitely not in love with her.”

“fine. a crush then. still, you should get her something. welcome her to the neighborhood.”

“that’s not normal.”

“what? of course it is.”

“it’s not normal for me,” mike explains. he glances back out the window, spotting you in the same spot you were since he turned away. you’re gardening, your white tank top clinging to your body thanks to sweat. you’re wearing a visor to protect your face from the sun as well as sunglasses to shield your eyes. you bend down to pick up a pot, unknowingly giving mike a nice view down your shirt.

vanessa scoffs in disbelief. “you’re practically drooling.”

“what, i’m not,” mike denies. he brings his hand to his lips, wiping the corners and feeling a small amount of saliva that’s collected. he blushes and looks down at the floor, knowing he’s stared at you enough today.

“you should introduce yourself before she calls the cops” vanessa quips. “you don’t want a restraining order from someone you don’t know.”

“what do you suggest i get her then?” he asks. “bake some cookies or something. i don’t know,” she shrugs.

“so helpful,” mike deadpans. vanessa chuckles and stands up from the couch. “my grandma has this killer chocolate chip cookie recipe. i’ll send it to you,”

“is this grandma from your mom or dad’s side?” he asks. she rolls her eyes, “do you want my help or not?”

“yes, yes,” he nods. “i’ll send it to you when i get home,” she says. she walks to abby’s room, knocking on her door and biding ber goodbye.

“don’t get yourself arrested, mike,” vanessa warns him as she walks out. mike glares at her, but he knows she’s right. he looks back out the window once her car leaves his driveway. now you’re sitting on your porch steps drinking some water. as you take a sip, you manage to spill some on yourself, making part of your top see-through. mike knows he should look away, but it’s almost painful to tear his eyes away. his jeans are suddenly tight and he looks away in shame. he knows what he needs to do.

“can i have one?” abby’s eyes light up as she sees the cookies on the stove.

“only one,” mike says. “two?” abby changes her mind. mike sighs and nods, handing her two cookies. she grimaces at them, but still takes them. “did you make these?”

“yeah,” mike nods. “you should ask vanessa to make them next time. she’s an expert!” abby grins. she takes a big bite of one, slowly chewing and swallowing. “these aren’t terrible.”

mike’s eyes light up. when they first came out of the oven, he thought they were inedible.

“are you going to give these to the girl next door?” she asks. “i was thinking about it,” mike admits.

“get her something else to make up for the cookies,” abby says. she takes another bite, turning around and walking back to her room.

he takes her advice and goes back to the store. he picks out a bouquet of flowers that matched one of the types on your lawn. he takes a shower and tries on every outfit in his closet, which are all clones of each other. he goes out of his room, being met by abby at the table.

“you look like a robber,” she states. mike looks down at his outfit and back at her. “i do not.”

“you should buy more bright colors! like yellow!” abby grins. “i am not buying yellow,” mike shakes his head. she shrugs, “she’s going to think you’ll kidnap her with the cookies.”

“isn’t josie’s mom supposed to pick you up soon?” mike asks. as he said so, a minivan pulls up in his driveway. “call me if you need anything and behave!” mike reminds her as she rushes out the door. he watches as she gets into the van, making sure it’s josie’s mom who’s picking her up. once the car leaves, you come into view.

you’re chatting with one of the neighbors down the street. mike squints and looks closer, seeing a container of some type of food in your hands. he groans and rubs his hands down his face, his skin dragging along. of course everyone and their mother wanted to come and talk to you. you were the only thing interesting happening in this neighborhood since mike and abby moved in.

but he has to see you, to meet you.

he waits a little while, not wanting to overwhelm you. after an hour of waiting, he can’t sit still anymore. he grabs the container of cookies and flowers and makes his way towards your house.

his hand shakes as he presses your doorbell. he can hear the jingle from inside the house. he glances through your window, seeing boxes still sitting out, some opened and still sealed. he spots you walking towards the door and he steps a quick step back, his heart beginning to race.

you open the door, cool air hitting mike’s face. he can’t help but gawk at you. you’re much more beautiful up close.

you stand there, leaning against your doorframe and wait for him to speak first. he gulps, feeling his throat tightening and becoming dry. he’s parched all the sudden.

“hi, i’m mike,” he manages to say. you smile sweetly at him. “hi, mike.” you say his name slowly, making the ‘k’ sharp. he lets out a breath in response, looking down and remembering why he’s really here

“these are, uh, for you. to welcome you to the neighborhood,” he says, holding out the gifts. he’s never felt more out of place in his life. he feels stupid and uncomfortable, telling himself that this was a terrible idea and he should’ve left you alone. but as you take his gifts, you invite him inside. the offer makes his eyes go wide and jaw almost drop.

“i… are you sure? i wouldn’t want to intrude.” he says this, but he would be lying if he denied having any thoughts about going into your house and spending time getting to know you.

“yeah, i’m sure. you can help me eat some of the desserts other neighbors have given me.” you turn around and leave the door open. mike doesn’t know if his imagination, but your hips sway almost intentionally. you take slow strides, the sides of your body curving in. mike’s jeans get tight once again and he’s thankfully he’s wearing a t-shirt that can cover the tent forming.

his head perks up as you turn to face him, setting his cookies on the counter and putting his flowers in a vase. he’s astounded by how many other containers of sweets you have sitting around.

“wow. you’re popular,” mike chuckles. you sigh and nod, “unfortunately. don’t get me wrong, i appreciate knowing my new neighbors like me, but there’s no way i can finish all of these before they go bad. well, maybe i could, but i live alone and would rather not have pie and brownies for every meal.”

“i could take some home if that would help,” mike offers. “sure,” you say. “i assume they’ll be for your daughter?”

mike shakes his head quickly, wanting to erase any thought of him being with someone from your head. “no, no. i bet you’re referring to abby. she’s my little sister.”

“ah,” you say. he might be mistaken, but you look relieved. “she looks like a sweet kid.”

“she is,” mike nods. he looks around your house, seeing you’ve already started to decorate. his eyes catch a photo of you with a man and a little boy at a carnival. his heart sinks as he looks closer. the man’s arm is around you and you both are holding the child’s hand.

“that’s my brother and his son,” you say. you stand next mike, crossing your arms as you admire the picture. “that was my nephew’s sixth birthday. i won him a toy elephant.”

mike smiles a little. “i take it that picture was taken before you won him the toy?”

“yeah, but trust me, i did. and it was huge. he could barely carry it.”

“he’s a cute kid.”

“yeah, he got all the good genes from my side of the family.”

mike’s head turns to you and he stares at you again. you aren’t wrong. you’re gorgeous. you’re charming and funny, and your smile’s infectious. mike feels unworthy to be in your vicinity.

“do you like banana bread?” you bring him out of his daze. there’s a coy smile on your lips, like you know something about him. hear creeps up his neck and he makes a point to look away from you. “y-yeah, i do.”

you walk back to your kitchen counter, grabbing a couple plates and putting a slice on each. you walk to your living room and sit on the loveseat. you pat the space next to you for mike to join. it takes everything in him not to run over. he takes a small bite of the baked good after you do, lowly moaning at the taste.

“these are amazing. so moist and still warm,” he comments.

“the couple down the street brought these to me. laura and um… peter, i think.”

“oh, yeah. they’re nice. they bought abby a barbie when we first moved in,” mike recounts.

“wow, aren’t you two special,” you tease. mike laughs softly. “that’s the only gift we’ve received, but i didn’t care. and abby was just happy that she got a new doll.”

“well, now abby will have some treats to enjoy over the next few days,” you say.

“it’ll probably be gone in a day,” mike chuckles. “as long as they’re eaten,” you shrug.

a comfortable silence settles over you two as you finish the food.

“thank you for inviting me inside. you didn’t have to,” mike says.

“it’s no problem. thanks for being willing to take some of my treats home.”

“always happy to help,” mike remarks. he stands up, beginning to walk towards the door, but you stop him. you put your plate down on the couch ledge, your hand gently wrapping around mike’s wrist. your hand is warm and soft, making him feel all fuzzy. he turns to you, raising a brow in question. you take a shaky deep breath in, your mind racing with all the words you want to say.

“i want you to know, mike, i didn’t invite you in just so you could eat some banana bread.”

his mind is spinning. he’s confused, but also excited. “w-what do you mean?”

“i noticed you’ve been watching me.”

his heart pounds against his ribcage. sweat starts to form near his hairline. “i… i can explain.”

“there’s no need to because i’ve been watching you, too,” you admit. you take a step closer to him, or maybe he leans forward. he can’t tell who makes what moves. all he can focus on is his heartbeat that’s thumping in his ears and dark look in your eyes. he catches the way your eyes flicker down to his parted lips.

you lean forward, your lips hovering over his ear. he takes a deep breath in, the smell of shea butter and laundry detergent. your warm breath tickles his skin, making all the hairs on his body stand up.

“you should really keep your curtains closed when walking around with a towel on.”

his heart stops and he forgets how to breath. your fingertips skimming along his forearm brings him back to reality. his body feels like it’s on fire. he’s thought about being in this situation with you so many times. wondering how to make it come to life. he’s dreamed about you coming over to watch abby and that’s how it starts, or him helping you move something into your house and things escalate from there. he always thought that he would have to be the one to initiate something. honestly, he was so nervous, always thinking of how to make you like him. but now that you’re standing here, so close to him he could just lean in and close the gap between you two, he feels less foolish and ashamed of his thoughts about you.

you press a hand against his chest, feeling the soft tissue under his black shirt. you step further into him, but not so much to where you’re against him. mike can almost feel your weight and he wants it to be real. he needs to feel you pressed up against his lower half. he needs to feel your skin on his. he needs to know what it feels like to kiss you, hold you, fuck you.

“i know how you think of me, mike.” you say his name lowly. “i know you dream about me. i know you look forward to admiring me from your window.”

he’s so painfully hard. it physically hurts the way his dick is trapped inside his pants. he can feel a wet spot already forming, his pre-cum bleeding into his underwear.

“i think about you while i’m in the shower. i think about your big hands on my body. i wonder how it would feel with be pressed up against the wall, your cock inside of me. fuck,” you gasp into his ear. “i’m already so wet just thinking about you.”

mike grabs you by the hips, your body colliding with his. mike groans just at the feeling of your lips against his. he’s been waiting for this moment for so long. it’s so much more amazing than he could’ve ever imagined.

you take him by the shirt, keeping your lips onto his. your kisses become impossibly more messy as you both walk up the stairs. mike’s kisses are wet and desperate. his tongue slides against yours. your teeth clash with his as you push your body into him in attempt to get closer.

you leave his lips for a moment to open your bedroom door. “sorry, i still have to unpack some things,” you say, kicking some boxes out of the way.

“maybe i can help after,” mike offers. you give him a teasing smile. “after what, exactly?”

“after this.” he grabs you again, sliding a hand under your shirt. his hands are warm against your already hot skin. you sit down on your bed as his hand continues to scale your body, feeling over the underwire of your bra. he can feel your heart pound against your ribcage as his hand ghosts across your skin. you shiver in response. his touch is so gentle, so light. he wants to take his time with you, not believing he’s finally with you. but he also wants to rip your clothes off and fuck you so hard you can feel when you wake up tomorrow.

you scoot back onto the bed and he follows, his lips detaching from yours and starting to wander. you moan softly as presses sloppy kisses along your jaw and down to your neck. he begins to softly suck multiple spots, listening for which one gets the most rise out of you. there’s a spot just under your ear, close to the nape of your neck that has you breathing harder. you feel wetness pool on your underwear and you squeeze your thighs together. between his hand teasing your nipple and his teeth scraping against your skin, you’re tempted to shove his other hand down your pants.

he seems to hear your thoughts, taking his hand out of your shirt. he takes ahold of the collar of your shirt, ripping it open, buttons flying everywhere. you watch as his bicep flexes as he pulls on the material. you’re embarrassingly turned on by this.

“I’ll buy you another one,” he promises. you hum in response, shrugging the shirt off. you unhook your bra, flinging it behind mike. he takes his shirt off and undoes the buckle on his belt. you take the liberty in taking all your clothes off. mike pauses as he’s unzipping his jeans, looking down at your naked body. you quite literally take his breath away. your glistening folds is what catches his eyes and his mouth starts to salivate. he needs to taste you. he need you to come on his mouth.

“better than you imagined?” you ask. his eyes flicker back up to yours and you watch his pupil swallow his iris. “so much better.” he spreads your legs apart harshly, the sheets causing a burning sensation on your skin. he spreads your pussy with his fingers, burying his face into your thighs. his tongue first enters you, collecting your juices with quick swirls. he trails up to your clit where he attaches his lips to. he can feel you throb against his mouth.

“oh, fuck.” you throw your head back and your eyes roll. his fingers enter you and he can’t help but groan at how wet you are. you grip his hair and your thighs clamp over his ears and you begin to buck your hips up.

his fingers pump inside of you, making your legs shake. he sucks your clit with the perfect amount of pressure, his tongue circling every couple of seconds. your legs are squeezing his head so hard, you’re afraid you might burst it open. but he plants a hand on your thigh, his fingertips digging into your skin as he keeps your leg there. your moans become erratic. your chest is heaving up and down, your eyes screwed shut as you focus on the immense pleasure flowing through your body. your pussy gushes around his fingers, the sound turning you on even more.

mike starts to moan into your skin as if he can feel how amazing it is. the scruff of his facial hair prickles your skin as he begins to move his head, burying himself flush against your skin.

“mike,” you whimper, feeling close. you can’t help but shout out his name, your fingers pulling on the back of his head. your thighs tighten once more then loosen as you come. he doesn’t stop until you push his head away.

you look down at him. his lips and chin are shining with your juices. his hair is all disheveled and his face is all flushed.

“tired?” you tease. he shakes his head, taking off his pants and underwear. “i could do this all day.” at first you think he’s just joking. you’ve had men say that to you before, but from the way mike is looking at you, you’re confident he actually means it.

you sit up on your knees, taking him by the neck and kissing him. you can taste yourself on his lips and on his tongue. it makes you moan in his mouth. his hands find your waist and he pulls you into him, groaning just at how your skin feels on his. his fingers move across your back, feeling every inch of you. his hands land on your ass, playfully squeezing and earning a small gasp from you. one of his hands settle on your waist, slowly leaning you back. you fall on the bed, looking up at him with expectant eyes.

“do you, uh, have any condoms?” he asks. “i’m on birth control,” you say.

he’s shocked, to say the least. he would’ve worn a condom without a second thought, but man, he was feeling like the luckiest guy in the world.

he moves down to kiss you again. he can’t get enough of the way they fit so perfectly with his, how in-sync you are with him. he wants to get accustomed to making you come with his mouth, to feel your legs shake around him. he can’t wait to know what it’s like to be inside of you.

he has one hand by your head to keep him stable. his other hand hooks under your thigh, pulling you down closer to him. without a second thought, he slowly pushes into you. the moan you elicit could’ve made him come right then and there if he didn’t have any self control. his girth stretches you out as he pushes deeper.

your walls hug him like they’ve been yearning for him. once he bottoms out, he pulls back out only to slam into you. your hands wrap around his shoulders as he falls into a rhythm. your eyes screw shut as he hits that spot. your little gasps and moans spur him on. he takes a look down, watching as his cock disappears into your cunt.

“fuck,” he mumbles. he looks back up to your face. your chin is titled up and he can see your eyes roll to the back of your head. your lips are swollen and parted, his name tumbling out of your mouth. he could just fall in with you.

“mike,” you say, a hint of desperation in your voice. your nails dig into his shoulders and he knows you’re close. he lets his mind flow free with you in it. he doesn’t even have to focus that hard. your hips push up against his, the angle causing him to go slightly deeper. you both mumble a string a curses as you come. he pants your name as you feel him fill you with hot spurts, quiet whimpers sounding from his throat.

all you can hear is your heartbeat in your ears. you close your eyes for a moment and try to catch your breath. you open them back up once you feel him pull out, his cum oozing down your thigh. you watch as he puts back on his briefs, walking into your bathroom and finding a washcloth.

you can’t help but grin from ear-to-ear at his sweet actions. you let him clean you up, his thumb rubbing circling long your hip. you tug back on your underwear and grab a t-shirt and shorts from your dresser. you walk him downstairs, grabbing a few containers of sweets and handing them to him.

“i’ll, uh, talk to you soon?” mike asks. you stifle a giggle at how shy he suddenly has become. “of course,” you nod. you open the door for him, planting a sweet kiss on his cheek.

the next day, mike swears what happened with you was a dream. he just can’t wrap his head around the fact that he was inside your house and you let him come inside of you. but as he grabs his mail and sees an envelope from you, he’s assured that it was real.

he opens the envelope as he walks up his driveway, choking on air as he sees a polaroid of you in black lingerie. he takes it out, holding it up close to his face to make sure he’s not imagining things. he flips it on the back, seeing a message from you.

take me out on a date and maybe you’ll get to take that off of me xx

#mike schmidt x reader #mike schmidt #mike schmidt x reader smut #mike schmidt x you #mike schmidt smut

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