#navigating disruption

[kakief]

The Quiet Truth About AI: You're Not Behind, You're Positioned to Win

Feeling Stuck on AI? You’re Not Alone—and You’re Not Behind  Two paths. One reactive. One intentional. Which will you choose?Onboarding AI doesn’t have to mean keeping pace with chaos—it can start with curiosity, structure, and trust. Feeling a bit breathless trying to keep up with the AI revolution? You’re not alone. Every headline promises transformation. Your LinkedIn feed makes it look like…

[casualnearenjoyer]

Call me a sea turtle with the way I hate electric lighting at night

[minophus]

kind of in love with blind ferryman

[hiddeninthe-veil]

:/

[technijianravi]

Critical Windows Update: Apply Patch Now to Prevent Black Basta Ransomware

[recuper0]

this new living situation, everything we've been through in the last 100+ days, has me deep in my feels

[gojoest]

from pregnancy freak to postpartum freak — satoru finds himself in a tough spot while your body is recovering from giving birth to his child. he tries to be patient but motherhood looks so beautiful on you… and unfortunately, after you’re ready to have him again, there seems to be another little issue — one that likes to cry and disrupt the moment satoru has been longing for

MDNI, established relationship, f!reader (she/her), pregnancy and postpartum, you have a beautiful baby daughter, mentions of breastfeeding and satoru being really really weird about it, mentions of male masturbation, somno if you squint really hard (just to be safe), pet names (baby, beautiful, sweetheart), nothing too explicit going on here tbf, but there’s a sweet little hint of a potential breeding sesh at the end, not proofread, wc: 1.8k+

your husband (gojo satoru) and you have always had a marvelous sex life, one that would naturally induce a sense of envy in anyone who came to know of it, accidentally or not — the walls were thin, but sometimes it was the mouth of your husband that was too big.

but in all honesty, there has never been a day in which you didn’t desire each other carnally, even after so many years.

you thought, maybe, this might change after he knocked you up with a baby — you had read a handful of articles on the topic and how some men become more distant during that sensitive timeframe — but as it turns out, you could not have been more wrong. either those magazines sucked or your husband was some sort of mutation. maybe, it was both.

your pregnancy could be, in fact, easily considered the peak of your sex life — that round belly of yours really did a number on him, as well as on you. well, with you it was the hormonal changes your body was going through that made you so borderline sexually insatiable, and the mood to bounce on him would strike you more often than ever. at some point, your sex drive went off the roof — you’d ask him to fuck you multiple times a day and satoru couldn’t be more fortunate — he’d drop everything and oblige in an instant, like that was all he had been waiting for, which was not so far from the truth. it was safe to say that you enabled the freak in him, and he was grateful.

“thank god… i don’t know how else i could survive those 9 months with you glowing like this, becoming more and more beautiful with each passing day”, he’d say to you every time you pressed and rubbed your ass against his cock in the middle of the night, not so innocently waking him up because you had a craving.

you had a lot of sex, but he was always careful with your aches and pains, no quirky positions until the baby was born — your physique didn’t allow it as the pregnancy progressed anyway. but the passion was always there, undeniably so, growing along with you.

but things changed after you went into labor and your daughter was born. the perfect little angel, his and his baby’s baby. satoru has never been happier.

to be honest, he didn’t think about sex at all in the beginning. he was on cloud nine, overjoyed. every second of his day was spent exploring this new light in his life and taking care of the both of you.

after you got discharged from the hospital, he took it upon himself to look after the house and deal with the chores — he handled the cooking, he washed the dishes, cleaned, did the laundry and everything else that needed to be done — while you were healing and navigating through motherhood. he helped you nurse your daughter, there wasn’t a single night where he didn’t wake up along with you whenever the baby needed feeding or randomly started crying.

but soon enough, after he adapted to this new pace, his sex drive started showing signs of its return. it came back strong — in fact, stronger than ever, and once again it was none other than you to blame for it.

…because, being a mother looked so good on you.

you have been his wife for years. but now, you are the mother of his child, and that is a title that somehow makes you his even more than ever. it is so permanent. because, even if you leave him one day — which you never would since he would simply never allow it — being the mother of his child will always tie you to him, he will always have a place in your life. that’s it, you just made it impossible for yourself to run away from him. like it or not, you will be his eternally and irrevocably.

he liked watching you be a mother and couldn’t help but get bricked up each time you held your daughter close to your chest, revealing your breast and holding it to her mouth in order to feed her.

was this normal? to get this hard? now of all times? — he didn’t know, and honestly, he didn’t bother finding out. because, when was he ever normal about you to begin with?

all he wanted to do in those moments was pin you down and fuck himself into you. you could see it in his eyes and in his bulge that he was trying to readjust.

“don’t try anything funny in front of the baby”

“i would never — i am simply watching and engraving this scene into my mind, for later”

‘for later’ obviously meant when he was jerking off.

the doctor said “no sexual intercourse for six weeks”

your body needed time to heal after giving birth, and that was only natural. and it was okay.

but it didn’t mean it wasn’t arduous for him. he had to watch you day and night without being able to touch you in ways he wanted to.

and now it’s been two months. two whole months without him laying a finger on you. his urges were back with full force, but yours? not really.

sure, you cuddled plenty while the baby was sleeping, which made it even harder for him. but you never got sexually intimate after you gave birth. he was well aware that you needed more time, that your body was still not ready, that you were exhausted physically and mentally because, once again, you were going through all these changes — because of him.

he understood that. but still, he missed you so much.

he’d jerk off whenever he got the chance, more than once a day, in fact. religiously so in the shower, it was a must — or else he would find it more difficult to manage himself around you.

sometimes he’d watch you breastfeed the baby and secretly sneak into the bathroom midway through it to rub one out, because if he didn’t — he’d bust right then and there. but can you blame him? you looked so maternal, so ungodly and unapologetically beautiful. the way you hissed whenever the baby sucked too hard on your nipple made him wish it was him dragging those sounds out of you…

fuck. he was becoming a freak again.

there were nights when he would wake up, as hard as a rock, and watch you sleep while fisting himself in the spot next to you in bed. he would be careful not to wake you when pushing the cleavage of your gown down, just enough to take your breasts out. he’d peck you softly on the nipples and that would inevitably and always lead to him uncontrollably unloading himself inside his palm. sometimes he would make a mess of the bedsheets, other times — of your nightgown.

“shit— if simply touching your skin does this to me, then i don’t want to think what will happen to me the second i slide it in”, he’d curse under his nose while washing off in the bathroom. “fuck. i miss you, baby”, he’d brush a hand over his face. “look what you made of me…”, and he would get hard all over again, just because for a split second he thought of being inside you.

luckily, you soon started dropping subtle hints of desiring him — initiating longer morning kisses, biting your lower lip and giving him the look whenever he walked out of the shower, saying his name in that same sweet voice with an undertone of fake innocence you would use in the past every time you wanted him to do things to you, rubbing his chest as you cuddled in bed or on the couch, sometimes your hand would slide a bit lower down his abdomen… but, that was it.

satoru never saw past the pearly gates, because his sweet angel of a baby would always start crying in the most inappropriate of times, as if on purpose.

“you go — i don’t want to face my daughter with a boner”, he’d whine, and you’d chuckle.

he loved his daughter more than anything, but he was genuinely bummed out and he had to do something about it.

one afternoon, after you fed the baby and left her in the care of your husband to go and take a shower, satoru put his daughter in the crib and leaned over with a serious expression of a parent about to lecture their misbehaving kid.

“listen, little miss, because we have a problem”

the baby chuckles in response.

“…and apparently, you know it”, satoru snorts. “but listen here, i know you love mama and you want her all to yourself. but what about papa?”, he pouts. “papa loves her too and wants her all to himself, at least once a day, but you’re not giving him a chance here. it’s not like i am asking for an entire day, just stay put for 15 minutes — 15 minutes is all i am asking for. deal?”

his daughter lets out another sweet chuckle.

“i’ll take that as a yes”, he caresses her cheek before leaving the room with the baby monitor in hand to join you in the shower.

finally. it was happening.

he stripped out of his clothes and walked into the bathroom, placing the baby monitor on the sink countertop before stepping into the shower cabin, letting the hot stream wash down his body as he reached for you.

“hello, beautiful”

“oh—“, you jolt. “you’re here? but what about the ba—"

“shh—“, he puts a finger on your lips, his free hand snaking around your waist to pull you close. “don’t worry, she’s fine. if something happens, we’ll know it from the baby monitor — so just relax”

you smile against his fingertip and softly peck it before sucking it in between your lips. his cock, already hard and squished between your naked bodies, throbs with a powerful twitch. a low growl rolls out of his mouth.

“god… i’ve missed you so much”, his hips involuntarily push against you, a desperate attempt to seek more friction by humping himself on your stomach. with how starved he was for you, he could probably finish just from this. but he wanted to take it slow and savor every second.

“it’s been so long, isn’t it?”

he nods. “i thought i was going to die”

you laugh. “you’re exaggerating”

“i am not… i never thought our tiny little angel could be such a huge devilish cockblock”

“you shouldn’t speak like that about our kid”, you snort.

“but it’s true. she’s a sly one, and obviously she’s obsessed with you”, he pouts.

“i wonder who she took it from…”

“she’s going to cause me a lot of trouble, isn’t she? but maybe, if we gave her a friend, she wouldn’t feel as lonely. maybe then, we’d get to have more alone time — like this. what do you think?”

“she’s too young for a pet, satoru. you know that”

he laughs. “i didn’t mean a pet, sweetheart. but we can get that too at some point”

[moe-broey]

.

Besties idk if I'm gonna make Sharena week... at least not as much as I would have liked to.

It's really upsetting, bc emotionally it's really important to me. I can't really explain why. Very low capacity rn.

I've said it before, but Sharena is such a personal character to me and she has a really weird effect on me sometimes lmfao. Which would be fine and manageable, I did go into this fully prepared for that. I've had my ups and downs about it. Ect ect

Under ideal circumstances I think I could possibly swing it. I am. Not experiencing ideal circumstances LMFAOOO

Idk idk, how much I can say/am willing to say. I store a lot of grief in Sharena. It would be manageable. If everything was normal and expected, as usual. It's been a week now, going on more than that. Of things Not being normal and expected and usual.

I've kind of been pushed beyond a limit, and it's incredibly difficult for me to even think about the Askr siblings whenever This Specific Thing happens. I become incredibly disillusioned. A Lif project completely fell to the wayside bc of this lmfao, ages ago. Whenever it happens, it just uproots my life completely. It's so stupid. It's so upsetting. So infuriating.

Sharena is already a difficult character for me to fully confront, in the best of times. A lot of pain in there. Fucks w me, if I'm not careful.

Under these circumstances, idk how much I can do. I'm so fucking angry this had to happen while I was working on something so important to me. I do also feel kinda bad bc I feel like I've been hyping this up since the interest check, and like... earlier I was just beating myself up about it, like, of course this would happen. Of course this is how it ends. I always falter and fuck up. I always fall flat. Ect ect

But like. Idk idk, how much I can really blame myself when like. I'm fighting for my life to survive being directly confronted with all the shit I've spent the greater part of my life actively repressing. In the form of A Person, who just really fucking sucks. Like this dude fucking sucks ass. I feel bad, but like, come on. Boooooo, this guy STINKS‼️‼️‼️

[neoplatinum]

long live cowgirls | sophia laforteza

synopsis: trying to divorce your wife has been disrupted by the sudden reveal of an evil outsider plotting on the demise of your marriage. you and sophia try navigating what you mean to each other despite nearly clawing each other apart...

pairing: (ex-ish) wife!sophia x cowgirl!reader

tags: angst, slow-burn, fluff, g!p reader (don't like, don't read), alcohol, mentions of rehab, tension, marriage troubles, cheating but also not really cheating, slight religious themes, cowboys/cowgirls, a-list-celebrity!sophia, manon, more…

wc: 7.4k

(part 1, part 2)

there’s two things sophia wants more than anything else in the world.

for thomas moore to be sent to hell and disintegrate.

for you to stop looking so hot.

now, sophia’s not one to make statements that were false, at least not if she could help it. but the way you kept cooing and tossing anna into the air, pretending to drop her. instead gracefully swinging her kid around both made her want to smack you upside the head and messily kiss you.

she couldn’t decide.

her mind was going crazy. crazy for a piece of you. maybe it was all the damning feelings coming back like an open waterfall or maybe you were so damn hot that sophia had to contain her desires.

it wasn’t like she was advertising wanting another kid. no. seriously, anna was more than enough for now.

but the way you keep flashing that million dollar smile and would make anna chase sophia. it clenched her heart too hard, and maybe even somewhere else.

and you were considerate above everything. the last couple years have been hard on both of you, eating at the love that once blossomed so unabashed, you were hers and she was yours. truly and indefinitely, until she made her biggest life regret, disappearing from your life.

a part of her still feels the guilt gnawing at her bones. trying to solidify in her soul that she’s an unworthy partner. the hurt, the turmoil, the unnecessary torment. all of it had hit sophia like a truck, nothing truly mattered more to her when the nights got cold and her heated mansion couldn’t contain the chilly feeling of loneliness.

it was painful, returning to a world where she promised herself she was going to become something, only to be squashed by none other than the evilness that permeated the industry. lara had warned her, signing to big name agency had all the glamour and networks to get you where you wanted. but you had to pay the hefty price of losing yourself in the process.

sophia doesn’t know how she can even regain that feeling of being invincible again. crushed like a roach under thomas’ snobby rich trust fund kid lifestyle.

but a little piece of her was hopeful, she kept the waves of hopelessness and misery at bay for her only daughter, born out of pure love and the desire to preserve something true to her real self.

her love for you.

and truthfully, that was all she needed, but God and his works had a way of redefining sophia and your future. and bless lara’s soul, she always stood ten toes behind sophia, they understood each other fundamentally.

lara admired the softness that was the undertone of sophia’s character. behind the sharp and obsessive want to become a well known actress was a girl who begged to play in local theatres and sing her heart to anyone who would hear. they were born from the same cloth, but held different personalities.

even when sophia let it all out one night, in her drunken stupor, bottle in hand and waterproof mascara barely holding her face together. sophia had spilled everything, how she left you behind. it was the one piece of sophia that lara could never place.

often begging sophia to tag along for double dates or nights out at the club. sophia never let anyone close enough, even with the charismatic smiles of men and women. or the more confident athletes who vied for her attention, it didn’t seem to make her eyes divert at all.

lara couldn’t tell if she was hung up on somebody or truly had let go of dating. and when questioned, her answers were elusive and dismissive at best. of course in her all too charming way too.

but one night, a particular night after several weeks of sophia’s disappearance. lara had asked the right question, and it made everything flow out of sophia.

like a confessional booth, lara sat there like a holy priest. watching and listening to sophia sob through the pain of being torn away from you.

it had offered an insight into sophia’s previous life, and despite everything, lara stuck by her side. she knew what sophia had gone through were the horror stories that people heard about online.

the pursuit of becoming a star with puppet strings bound to your hands and mouth. every word and action, monitored and controlled by another person.

with the conviction of being a fiercely loyal best friend, lara had set in stone a plan to set her best friend free.

the three phase takedown that was thomas moore’s entire career and life.

phase I:

blind item #2

This big shot director’s son is pulling daddy’s name and connection with a A+ list actress to coerce her into a divorce from her hidden spouse. and the reason? said son is securing his fortune by marrying this actress and hiding that he never went to rehab. A+ list actress has since disappeared from the starlight to settle her messy divorce, rumors of a hidden child?

it clearly wasn’t the best gossip piece sophia’s heard of herself. but it was tacky enough to garner the attention of hundreds of people online to talk.

the “anonymous” send in was led by lara pr manager and sophia’s manager. both using this as a tester for how the public would react, and it seems most were empathetic towards the mysterious actress.

and then lara started leaking photos to different gossip columns, different photos for each team. it was efficient this way, no one point to trace to, and lara was smart.

she had already utilized her PR team to deal with needy gossip columns. each leaving up to 50 voicemails asking who this mystery pairing was.

lara didn’t care if it eventually all lead back to her, as long as the effect wasn’t in vain. and as the weeks came, lara became more confident in her actions. then she started leaking some information, summarizing thomas’ hidden reality and his manipulative ways.

it almost blew up in lara and sophia’s face. thomas immediately got antsy when a tmz segment came out, dropping possible names that fit the description and he was brought up.

the tmz crew were tossing random names out, pictures were floating around the internet. and slid into the hands of tmz. lara knew he would go under soon.

and so he did, he watched the segment in horror. the second he heard his name spoken in the clip he vibrated like a chihuahua in fear. fear and anger consumed him, throwing the tablet and smashing the screen.

immediately dialing sophia’s number.

“the fuck did you do?” his voice was heavy, like a gong that hit against your ears.

“hello thomas, to what do i owe the pleasure?” sophia was sitting at brunch with lara. both girls went quiet when they saw the name flash on sophia’s phone. a reminder that he was still very present and aware of their every move.

“pleasure? there’s no pleasure in what you’re trying to do here. the blind item. you did this.” he continued to let out his venomous tone, dripping with malice and disgust. “you’re leaking everything aren’t you? you whore. of course you would, trying to ruin someone like me. i have the wo-”

“thomas, please, save the self entitled speech for someone else. you sure it wasn’t one of your supermodel bimbos?” sophia scoffed, and lara rapidly started jotting down comments on a napkin.

deflect and distract. stab at his ego. lara pointed with her pen, and sophia nodded. continuing to listen to his tyrannical venting.

“and i know its you, only you would want to ruin my hard work. it’s so clear that you’re jea-”

“you’re so full of yourself, i have no clue what you’re talking about.” sophia played her best nonchalant neutral tone as possible, pulling the acting skills to mask the anxiousness.

lara continued to nod, repeatedly pointing at the text on the napkin. underlining deflect several times.

“sophia, no one knows about me not going to rehab.” he bit out. “you’re the only one that knows, so of course you leaked it. i’m going to sue you for defam-”

“i’m going to stop you right there. you even try to sue me for defamation over something that didn’t happen, and i’ll drag you five rounds of litigation like you fought rocky.” sophia bit back, she wasn’t the best at listening to commands and she sure as hell wasn’t going to be intimidated by this fool of a man. “and you will lose.”

“you fucking bitch, after everything i did for you. you want to sue me?” the shock in his voice was evident, the anger and frustration still amped up.

“yeah, try me, i dare you. one misstep and it all comes crashing down. don’t ever call me again.”

“is that a threat?” he narrowly throws out.

“not a threat, a warning.” and with that sophia hits the red button. to say she was anxious was an understatement. she hadn’t expected him to catch up until much later. but of course his lega-no, his dad’s legal team were the top of the line. letting thomas moore jr. fail meant a disgrace on thomas moore sr.’s work and effort.

and shit, sophia did not want to deal with thomas moore sr.

“lara i feel like i’m going to puke.” sophia leaned back in her chair, trying to calm her nerves. taking a sip of her water to stabilize herself. the last thing she needed was to be seen having a meltdown in the middle of a restaurant.

“hey, come on, breathe and relax. it’s all going to be okay sophie.” lara puts her hand over sophia, calming her down in the process.

there was still this terror within sophia, one that she knew came from the constant monitoring from thomas, the fear that he could take everything away from her.

he could take you, anna, her acting. all of it could be stripped from her if she misstep or said something too bold. and even with the weariness of what he’ll do next, sophia had begged to God, prayed that whatever happened next would bring her happiness.

the rest of the meal went smoothly, lara spoke lightly of the legal team she was pulling together in the slim chance thomas went crazy and did decide to drag sophia down with him.

sophia tried stomaching the rest of her meal, a slight weight lifting off her crushed soul.

--

“hi anna, want to see something?” you had toyed with a play horse in front of anna. her grabby hands reaching for it and snatching it from you. clearly more interested in it than you.

anna made a noise of content when she began smashing the horses against each other. clearly delighted in the destruction of the horses.

you grabbed one too, slamming it into another horse, watching anna squeal out of pure happiness. a little worried that you were teaching her that violence was okay.

so instead you patiently placed the horses together, pretending they were clopping together in tandem. anna flickers her eyes between the horses and you, curiosity burning.

she had your gaze, it almost felt like looking at a mirror. and sometimes it scared you how real this all was. you had a daughter, with the same woman that stole your heart all those years ago.

and anna was everything, she was bright and funny in her toddler way. constantly trying to explore the world around her. especially the kitchen, trying her hardest to steal snacks when she could.

so here you were, sat in sophia’s large mansion, filled with decor that costed more than your entire life savings. taking care of a daughter that you wanted desperately to know and live with. and sophia let you, so you pushed.

maybe it was always easier to sleep knowing sophia was close. you didn’t have as many nightmares that woke you up from anxiety. the calmness that continued to stay as long as you stayed slept near her.

moving out of the presidential suite was easy, you had little luggage, it was more of the reality that you would be moving into sophia’s place.

temporarily of course.

both of you didn’t say it openly, but the way she kept lingering when the night talks got long, the way she continued to cook for you even if you offered.

how laundry got mixed together, and she naturally bought you a toothbrush and moved her bathroom products to one side of the counters.

she never let you stay too far either, with a big mansion you could have any bedroom, even one far away from hers but she didn’t let you. she claimed that checking on anna in the middle of the night would be easier if you were nearby. how she felt safer if you were closer.

it was a slight twist of the truth, she wanted you closer than just a bedroom away. she wanted you next to her, safely tucked under her arms. away from the evil crutches that wanted to destroy what you two “had”.

but you didn’t cross that boundary, it was better this way, close enough to know that deep down you two were still very much in love. but the safety of still having a way out if she were to completely destroy you once more.

it was a love that was resurfacing. both of you offering a way in but not swinging the door wide open.

anna continued to play throughout the afternoon, dragging you upstairs where she had her favorite books and stuffed toys. it was cute, your daughter was so cute. excitement at introducing you to all her plushies. and in the corner of her bedside table was a photo.

it was you, sophia and anna huddled together, way early on when you first learned about anna. you were busy smiling and looking at anna with adoration blooming that you didn’t even notice sophia staring fondly at you two. only anna with her wide smile facing the camera.

sophia must have set it up, a reminder that this was anna’s family. that you were sophia’s other mother.

night quickly fell, and anna had fallen asleep mid reading a book. well, more like pointing and laughing at the pictures and flipping through them repeatedly.

and with a yawn you left the room, leaving her night light on and the door slightly ajar. you spent the rest of the time waiting for sophia to get home. apparently talks had gone long in sophia’s team about how to deal with thomas.

you abhorred the man, how cruel he was to tear sophia away from you. how he used his power for evil and manipulation. it wasn’t just the conversation the morning after. it was the long nights filled with white wine and spilled feelings and fears that drove your hatred like a nail in the coffin.

the man dripped with malice. his heart turned black with a mind that churned ideas that he deserved greatness. he deserved the bows at his feet. he deserved to be revered as more than thomas moore sr’s son. and worse he believed he was never in the wrong.

each action or inaction against sophia made him revel in his power, that it was his birthright to subject people to his whims and desires. and he basked in the results, seeing sophia heartbroken and still under his clutches made him laugh with glee.

and the lack of support that sophia had, it made you so powerless. you weren’t her proud wife who didn’t take shit from everyone. you weren’t the brazen cowgirl from new mexico that had a quicker shot than anyone down south. the brash woman that would’ve taken care of thomas moore with so much as a whisper had he said something unpleasant to your wife.

you felt the shame build, from the lack of presence as a parent to anna, to the woe is me mindset that made you blind to sophia’s looming puppet master. everything grew to be too much, you internalized the feelings, not sure where to direct them but sophia still sat with you. explained each feeling of distress with calm energy and a soft hand resting atop of your shaky ones.

she wasn’t going to let you take the blame for the wrongdoings of a man that overstepped his power.

weeks gone by and you convinced yourself that it wasn’t your doing. that you didn’t shove her further into the arms of a man that had nothing but pure evil in his soul.

a sudden voice pulled you from your thoughts, sophia with tired but warm eyes coming into your view.

“hi, i’m home.” she walked in, plopping her bag on top of the kitchen counter. you hadn’t expected her, still stirring your pot of soup. adjusting the taste with a slight pinch of salt.

she smiled at how cute you looked in her pink strawberry apron. a slight mess on the counters but she could tell you were trying. smudges of random sauce on your cheeks.

she crosses the kitchen, grabbing a small towel, dabbing off the sauce and watching your goofy smile glow. you always had a penchant for sophia doing small favors for you.

“hi fia, long day?” you let her arms drop to her sides. her eyes aren’t as sharp, but she still watches you with admiration.

“yeah, legal team’s been building up a case, it’s like they’re ready for war.” sophia continues to watch you, an old habit she had when days were long on the ranch and all she wanted was your comfort.

“i’m glad they are. that piece of shit should die. now go sit, i cooked dinner for us.” you ushered her away, watching her drop into a chair, exhaustion deep set in her mind. she needed a drink and probably deep sleep at this point.

“how was anna today? give you any problems?” sophia absentmindedly start clearing the table, shuffling some mail over.

you grabbed a bowl of soup for sophia, setting it down in front of her. immediately releasing the tension from her shoulders, clearly held together with frustration and exasperation for hours on end.

“she was amazing, kept wanting to learn about horses and made me sit when she read her books.” you offered a recount of the day, the long hours spent between playing and cooking for your daughter.

sophia laughed and inquired with each particularly funny moment. it felt…domestic. perhaps a flash of a possible life that was meant to be.

you two continued to talk through dinner, spanning from discussions of you selling your ranch, and buying a ranch not too far from sophia’s place.

at most an hour drive out the city, and it reminded her how real this was all becoming.

you had made quick plans to transfer over your ranch and possessions over. it took up much of your time, traveling between the two states and a fatigue that sank into your body, but your heart had never been so open before. a frequent reminder that sophia wasn’t divorcing you out of hatred. she still deeply loved you, cared like she held herself to the vows she made to you, under God.

you vowed to try too, giving small bits of your heart again, in small gestures of light compliments. it was treading the line of affection without placing your heart on an open target.

and sophia didn’t push, she didn’t ask when conversations got hard and you shut down.

when sophia reached for you, searching for reassurance of a love that once was, you offered it the best way you could. the best way someone could offer love with a mangled past and an even more complicated factor of being parents.

cooking dinner, setting aside time for anna: all of it was a physical reminder that you cared. you wanted to work out the mess of a relationship that was yours and sophia’s.

but truly it was your and sophia’s relationship. not yours, sophia and thomas. not your, sophia and the public’s relationship. you and her with the addition of anna, your beloved daughter.

that night sophia gave you a kiss on the cheek before disappearing into her bedroom, a slight flush of the cheeks when she could tell it caught you off guard.

both of you haven’t set the record straight about your relationship. but you could tell in due time, it would all work out.

--

phase II:

it was quick and it was sudden, especially intentional to give no time for him to prepare. lara’s avenger level legal team had pulled together records, text messages, recordings, photo evidence, copies of contracts. anything and everything that was even remotely incriminating.

they threw it all on the table. and as thomas moore was lounging in his malibu mansion, a glass of wine in hand, he walked to the end of his driveway.

a sleek black suburban parked right outside his gated home. he opened the gate, excited to get his brand new car. when he realized suddenly, this wasn’t that. in fact it was the second spell of disaster for him.

“sir, are you thomas moore?” the man had a thick accent, standing roughly at 6’4 and a simple black and white suit, sunglasses pressed up against his nose bridge.

“i am, how can i help you?” the last time thomas got visited by a burly tall man, he had nearly signed away his house to get out of gambling debt, not before shoving a couple cases of cash he had withdrawn from his daddy’s bank account.

“you’ve been served.” and then he shoved a manila folder into his hand.

a sudden outrage piercing through his head.

“you’re fucking joking.” thomas ripped apart the folder, the burly man already walking away from him. driving away from the house quickly.

and with a quick read of the front paper, he immediately dialed sophia’s number.

the number you are trying to reach is unavailable.

throwing his glass against the ground, the shards all shattered on the asphalt. he couldn’t contain his anger, letting it boil over and explode out.

meanwhile, sophia was in her head, all of the moments leading up to today was grueling and tiresome. she had barely anytime to herself between magazine shoots and interviews.

and with the growing demands of the public, she felt like she was spread thin. pulled tight like a rubberband, ready to snap at one more pull. but in an instant she relaxed.

it was a small gesture. something small that had caused the collapse of all the tension held tightly in between sophia’s shoulders.

you strolled into her office, cool and a light smile on your face. and sophia relaxed instantly at the sight, you held a bag in your hand, calmly grabbing an extra chair and sitting next to her.

“hope you don’t mind me joining you.” you flashed her a warm grin as you began opening the bag. placing sandwiches onto her office table and water as well. sophia smiled at the gesture, she hadn’t eaten all day. forgotten breakfast as she rushed out the door to get more paperwork filled out.

“is this supposed to be a date?” sophia chuckled lightly, watching you unwrap her sandwich and place a small napkin by her side. and then opening your own sandwich.

“could be, would you like this to be a date?” you couldn’t help but lean in close, trying to taunt her with your eyebrows, raised and wiggling in front of her. she burst into laughter, pointing at you like the laughing stock before settling for eating her sandwich instead.

you pout a bit, wanting to hear her say yes, but instead she continues to eat her sandwich.

“fia,” you whine a bit, scooting closer to her. it’s comical how desperate you are for an answer, nudging and sliding your leg next to hers. “is this a date?”

sophia just nods, still chewing on her sandwich, watching you relax into your chair. letting out a dramatic sigh of relief before giggling out loud.

“you’re going to have to do more than sandwiches and water for this to be a serious date though.” sophia cocks one eyebrow as she watches you unveil something else from the bag.

“i knew you would say that so i prepared this for us.” and you pulled out a booklet, it was a surprise gift you were planning on giving to sophia before she left.

but now, given everything that’s transpired. you feel renewed to show her something that was crafted from you, a gift from you to her.

it was a collage book of your photos. spanning from early day photos of you two when you weren’t dating yet. hidden glances at each other and an itch to get closer together. to photos of you two at bonfires together, sophia wearing your flannel and your bracelet with her initials tied around your wrist. to the day you two got married, gorgeous smiles and warm love exuding from the photos.

at some point, sophia grabbed your hand, stopping you from explaining the next one. holding onto it as she tried not to cry, you instead turned to wipe off the tears. giving her hand a careful squeeze, and dipping down for a kiss and she continued to cry into the kiss.

she eventually wrapped her arms around your shoulders. hugging you tightly as lunch was forgotten. and as time continued, you offered her light kisses as she played with your wedding band. dipping down to kiss it gently.

--

phase III:

eventually it came out that thomas had been blackmailing sophia for his personal gain. the paparazzi swarmed his and her house like flies. each reporter trying to capture even a glimpse of the two people. and you swore you never felt as protective of sophia before.

hiding her and anna at your house while news headlines spread like wildfire. lara did her best to direct the attention to thomas, denying commenting on the scandal of the year.

and then the court hearings started. sophia was stuck in courtrooms for hours, and when things got hard you held her like she was all that mattered. offering her comfort and a listening ear when she wanted to vent.

then you got subpoenaed to the stand. thomas involvement in your and sophia’s “divorce” came to light in court. you did your best to give the best account that you could. how he showed up to your ranch, tracking sophia down and forcing her to leave with him.

the defendant tried, they really did. trying to paint your relationship as one that was already dying, that his involvement was nothing more than a mere coincidence. you nearly wanted to shout at the defense, what they were insinuating was disgusting and cruel.

the defense didn’t get the riled up and unstable account that they were hoping for. instead you stood firmly behind your words, speaking them for what they were. letting reality do its talking and reminding everyone who the true villain was.

and sophia tried not to cry in your arms when you both went home. this case was clearly affecting her more than she’d like to admit. she only hoped the jury saw the truth to her misery.

but at the end of the night, when both of you were spent from the long day at court, you held her closely, soft kisses to her forehead as she slept deeply in your arms. a reminder of how you once were who she ran to when things got hard.

and within the span of weeks, the world had lifted its weight from sophia’s shoulder. the jury had decided and the decision went in sophia’s favor. the courtroom erupted in claps as thomas’ head hung low.

sophia could be free from him and his clutches, no longer was she almost close to losing you and her acting career. and to top it all off thomas would never be able to step even near her ever again.

sophia swear she could see the world looking prettier by the end of it. waltzing out of the courtroom with her head held high and paparazzi swarming the steps outside. what people didn’t expect to see was you.

hand held firmly with sophia’s, strongly pulling her towards the car, away from the shouting crowd and bright flashes. hat tipped down and an arm blocking out from anyone was too close.

“fia, stick close to me.” you pulled her in closer, arm wrapped around hers in an attempt to protect her from the swarming hands. one nearly got to her, another almost knocked their camera in her face. so you quickly crossed the red carpet, bringing her into the big car.

the door quickly closing behind you two as flashes still tried to capture photos of you two behind tinted windows. reality is that sophia was tired. grew tired of not being able to call you hers in public, strangled by thomas’ control, and the worry of the opinions of others. but sophia was over it.

she needed the world to know that you were proudly hers, and she was proudly yours. and in the span of seconds, social media began flying out with posts about you two. everyone questioning who the mysterious cowgirl was. paparazzi was running headlines like crazy, ever the devil’s advocate.

exploring possible hidden truths of who you were and why you were close to sophia. people were swarming the internet, making comparisons of old photos of sophia and the truth started popping up.

instead you held her hand as the car rolled along the road, giving small squeezes of reassurance as sophia’s manager and media time continued to manage the spark of the scandal of the year. it didn’t matter how much sophia was the one on that was hurt throughout the unveiling of the lawsuit. there would always be vultures, excited to tear through every bit of her, from her appearance, to her character, and even what she chose to wear.

so she kept her head clear, choosing instead to keep away from the internet during this difficult time. even when her phone was definitely blowing up from acquaintances and colleagues checking in on her.

exactly 1 hour after leaving the courthouse, sophia had planned her announcement of your relationship with her,

masterfully she instead released one singular post.

two photos.

first was an old photo of you two when you first got married, cheeks wide from the joy of tying the knot.

second was a more recent photo, a photo of you two riding buckeye and honey and anna sitting in front of you. running along the water and hats sat tightly on top.

with a red heart emoji and a ring emoji, added with a caption of “with my forever cowgirl, love you to the end of time”

the post nearly broke the internet, hardcore fans speculating the identity of the mysterious woman that had made her way onto the instagram of this A list actress. comments flooded the post, people were reposting and sharing the post like it was hot potatoes. it was exhilarating and insanely redeeming to be able to freely announce the love of her life to the public.

to not live in fear of losing you, and rebuilding a relationship that stood the test of time and trust you had for each other.

--

the gentle lull of the windchimes continued to ring in the early morning. you were busy rocking anna in your arms, the young toddler had tired herself out playing with charlie all day yesterday. dedicated herself to walk all the perimeters of the ranch with charlie by her side. you laughed when anna came back with her report. a small salute from her before disappearing into the ranch house.

she looked so much like sophia, it warmed your heart. but her eyes were all yours, the familiar wild eyes that always wanted to explore, curiosity that was hard to tame.

she was going to be a tough one, if she had any of your fire or drive.

you continued to rock her, occasionally brushing the hair out of her face, the warm sunrise keeping you company. charlie was busy swishing his tail, yawning every so often.

you eventually got up, tucking her into her bed, placing a gentle kiss across her forehead. she was a heavy sleeper like sophia, had to poke and prod her until she finally would comply with the morning routine. so you let her doze off again, this time hugging her plushie tightly to her chest.

after, you descended down the stairs. pulling your boots and holster on. like clockwork charlie was waiting outside, tongue lolling out as he happily trotted next to you. he knew that anna sleeping meant it was work time.

you gave him a light pat on the side before opening the chicken coop. peering in to check for eggs and anything that looked out of place. the chickens were already clucking loudly near you, one trying to peck at your boots.

you laughed a bit, side-stepping the chicken and checking the troughs for enough feed. taking a hose to fill with water in the many pails that stood in the chicken coop.

charlie was busy chasing one chicken, he loved chasing that one. you had an inkling that he didn’t like the way it would look at him. eventually you walk away, grabbing the pail and setting it on the outside.

then a car honk got your attention. head snapping up and a smile broke out on your face. the familiar sight of the red jeep in front. you walked up to the car, pearly whites shining when you leaned into the car, windows rolled down and a hand reaching out to touch your arm.

“anything i can help you with ma’am?” you asked with amusement in your voice, taking your cowboy hat off, tilting it a bit.

“sure can, can i get my morning kiss?” she smiled as she took off her sunglasses, grabbing you with the front of your shirt, pulling you into a messy kiss.

hm, she missed you?

you smiled against the kiss, capturing her lips in yours. she pulled at your hair a bit, liking the way you kept going for me, like you couldn’t get enough from her.

you pull away, much to her disapproval.

“hi fia, good morning.” you unlock the door, taking her hand as she hopped out the jeep.

“good morning to you too, you look good.” she eyed your shirt, more fitted and tight around your torso, a gift from her from last weekend. she lightly touched the fabric with her manicured fingers, light touches dancing across your body.

“yeah? what do you like about it?” you shake your head, offering an easy smile. you lean into the car, killing the ignition and locking the car. swiftly turning around to her already waiting for you. a warm smile on her face when you opened your hand for her.

“that i bought it.”

she slides her hand into yours, giving it a light squeeze as she walks with a grin on her face.

“well all the more compliments to you then.”

you both walked up to the ranch house, hand in hand with charlie making light yips as he tried climbing on sophia’s legs. begging for pets and then eventually waiting by the ranch door. you push open and let sophia and charlie in.

a slight wait as you watched her, not knowing that she could feel your gaze on her. you close the door behind, trailing after her as she went straight to anna’s room. charlie continued to pad against the floor, deciding now was a good time to chase after his own tail.

you follow sophia into anna’s room. sophia sitting on the bed, lightly brushing the hair out of her face. adjusting the blanket and singing a lullaby to her as she tapped against her hand.

it was everything you wished for, and you were here to see it. you sat down as well, and sophia gave you a warm smile. you leaned closer, resting your head atop of sophia’s shoulders.

“tired?” she let your hands wrap around her in a tight hold. and you gave a silent nod, happy to have her so close, it felt like home.

sophia couldn’t help herself, placing a gentle kiss at your temple and leading you out the room.

“i think she’s growing up too fast.” you mention to sophia quietly, following her downstairs into the living room. she gives you an inquisitive look, urging you to continue.

“why do you say that?” she settles onto the couch, grabbing her bag and shuffling through the flaps, pulling out a manila packet from her bag.

“yesterday she told me she found old tapes of me bull riding when i was younger. told me she wanted to try it out.” you continued to stare into the ceiling, thinking about the passage of time as well as how far life has come.

“i think she looks up to you,” sophia eventually pulls out a stack of paper, setting it on the coffee table. “it’s sweet, she sees you as a superhero.”

“it’s sweet but i want her to grow up like you.”

“like me?” sophia cocked an eyebrow.

“you know, smart and ambitious.” you admit quietly, it was a growing feeling in your chest. how you wanted anna to be someone who would shine. even if it wasn’t acting, you wanted her to have sophia’s grit and perseverance.

“you don’t think you’re smart and ambitious?” sophia realized what this was about. how you always shied away from talking about your hopes and dreams, opting instead to hear her talk about it.

it made you feel small at times, a lack of direction or goal. you didn’t have this overtly grand dream, you just wanted to be with sophia, growing together and living your lives together.

“sometimes, i wish i was more ambitious.” you explain, slightly adjusting yourself on the couch. “like i wish i did more with my life.”

“do what?”

“i wish i stuck with bull riding and went nationally.” you can feel sophia’s gaze as she observes everything. the slight fidget or how your fingers tap against your buckle.

“did you forget that you almost died?” she leaned in, soft fingers that found comfort on the side of your face. a reminder that she almost lost you once, to a bull that bucked too hard at the wrong time.

almost trampling you in the process, broken and bruised ribs, fractures that ran through your ragged body. she was by your bedside every moment she had, helping you recover at the time.

“i’ll never forget that, but i still…i wish i did more.” you give a grunt and nod, sliding down the couch more, feeling the tiredness kicking in. “it was just a silly thought, don’t pay any attention to it.”

you always had a way of exiting the conversation when feelings got too strong. an exit strategy when your feelings ran deeper than you’d like to admit.

wanting to divert your attention, sophia taps your leg,

“hm?”

“i’m thinking of taking a break from acting.” she said it like she set a boulder down, weighted exhaustion released from her shoulders. like she ripped off a curse that had been casted on her.

“what? you can’t, that’s your dream.” you sat up, surprise exploding across your face. even in the end, despite sophia leaving you and your life behind the first time. you would never want her to quit her passion, you know how hard she fought for her place in the industry.

countless nights after your heart broke, maybe it was because you wanted to make sure she was still real, that you hadn’t manifested her existence.

you watched every acting part that she was in, all the movies, all the tv shows and all her interviews during the press tours. she sparkled under the limelight, acting was and still is her passion. it was clear as day, the way she had explained all her thoughts on playing these characters, her undeniable pursuit of greatness. it casted this warm glow on your heart even if she took your heart with her.

it hurt and it hurts even more to know she wants to stop acting.

“right now it’s too much of a commitment, i want to be with you and with anna.” she continues, giving you a small smile even though you heavily disagree. you want to see her shine, want her to continue to mold her talent.

“to make up for lost time.”

“you sure? you know i’ll always support whatever decision you make. but i don’t want you to have to give up acting.” she slid closer, letting her head fall just in the junction between your head and shoulders.

a gentle but somber smile on her face.

“i know you do, it’s what i love about you. but i need to do this, i’ve already done so much damage by prioritizing acting, i want to be here, right now, with you and with her. that’s all i need.” she played with your hand, particularly the wedding band that fit snugly on your finger.

“you can’t get enough of me?” you grin smugly, enjoying her lurch back, eyes rolling and gasping as she leaned away from you.

“as if…” she instead crossed her arms, letting you chuckle to yourself, sliding yourself onto her lap. head looking up to her. enjoying how she’s still unable to look at you. a hint of amusement behind her frown, and you simply let yourself rest on her lap.

her fingers start threading through your hair, a gentle massage against your scalp. a faint smell of her perfume coming close to you, you basked in the softness of her massage and light floral elements in her perfume.

“fia, i’ve been thinking about this for a while. do you want to move in with me?” you had thought about it for a while. with the current arrangement, anna always wanted to sleep over, often staying for extended periods of time on your ranch. and with that came sophia’s constant visits.

anna would be over for weeks at a time and sophia missed her daughter, and you. but that led to sophia staying over too, often falling asleep in your bed together, a reminder of a faint but distant memory of you two together.

you tried to not push her, to force both of you together again. but the familiarity of living together and the added proximity of your daughter, drove you mad. the question was begging to be released, held back by your tongue in hopes that you could quell your deeply rooted desire for her presence.

you knew that you had it bad one afternoon, anna was committed to picking up all the eggs from the coop with sophia. you watched sophia and anna together, charlie lightly licking anna’s face whenever she leaned down, high pitched squeals ringing through the air.

sophia still looked so beautiful, long flowing hair tucked in her cowboy hat, a flowy sundress that paired well with her cowboy boots. you were reminded how the smallest things made your heart beat in your ribcage.

you swear that night you didn’t leave her side once, heart happy to have her so close. you kissed her goodnight that night, an impulse that had you blushing before you fell asleep.

“i would have to sell my house.” she comments, already churning ideas in her head. “and where would i sleep?”

you knew she was toying with you, trying to get a confession out of you. you’re more than happy to provide the confession. an admission that you wanted her where she wanted you.

“with me. in our bed. obviously.” you opened one eye, watching her gaze at you intently. almost like the feelings were overwhelming her.

“hm, i’ll think about it.” she joked, letting you play petty when you turned away from her towards the tv.

sophia continued to thread her fingers through your hair as you fell asleep. a content smile on her face, kissing your forehead every so often.

things would work out, she believed that it would. she had to believe in you and her because that’s all that mattered to her. and you knew that no matter what threw at you two, you two would stand together as a unit together.

--

a/n: ...and here it is!!! i sincerely apologize that this final part took so long to get together. i had an insane amount of trouble getting the pacing, and writing a plot that would make sense while still preserving the relationship i was trying to write for this entire piece. i hope that you've enjoyed this final part, it was an absolute pleasure to write it stay safe and stay healthy everyone!

[littlepeach-world]

Safety Call

Pairing: Frontman/Hwang In-Ho x Reader

Summary: When an unwelcome stranger disrupts your night out with friends, you call In-ho for help. 

Warnings: Angst, Alcohol, physical altercation, harassment, Protective!Inho, Soft!Inho.

Word count: 1.4k

Notes: I love protective Inho, so I decided to write this. I hope you like it!

You stand near the doorway, noticing the stern yet concerned look in In-ho's eyes as you finish getting ready. His presence is a mixture of authority and a hidden worry that only you can see through.

"In-ho, I'll be fine," you say, turning to face him with a reassuring smile. You know how to ease his fears, how to comfort him. "It's just a few drinks with friends."

"I know," he replies, his voice steady but low. "But be careful. Call me if anything happens."

You chuckle softly, walking up to him and placing a tender hand on his cheek. His skin is warm under your touch, and you let your thumb gently caress his cheekbone. His eyes soften slightly at your intimate gesture. "I promise I will. Besides, you don't have to worry too much. You have my location and are always tracking me when I go out." Your eyes sparkle mischievously as you say this, and you can see his lips twitch, almost forming a smile.

His hands find their way to your waist, pulling you closer until there’s barely any space between you. "Just be careful, Y/N," he murmurs, his forehead resting against yours for a brief, tender moment.

Before you can respond, In-ho leans in and presses a gentle kiss to your lips. The kiss deepens slightly, filled with the tenderness and concern he holds for you. He then begins to pepper kisses over your face—your cheeks, your forehead, the tip of your nose—eliciting a soft giggle from you.

"I love you," you whisper, your heart swelling with emotion.

"I love you more," In-ho replies softly, his eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that takes your breath away.

You feel his breath on your lips, and for a heartbeat, you’re lost in the depth of his gaze. You give him a playful salute before stepping out of the apartment, aware of the mix of anxiety and love swirling within him. As you walk away, you can feel his eyes on you, a silent promise of his unwavering protection and affection.

—

The bar is bustling with life, filled with laughter and music. You navigate through the crowd until you spot your friends—Eunji, Yuna, and Jian—already seated at a cozy corner booth. There's a celebratory air as you greet them warmly and enthusiastically wish Jian a happy birthday, wrapping her in a tight hug.

"Happy birthday, Jian! How does it feel to reach this milestone?" you tease, causing the group to laugh.

The night is filled with dancing, laughter, and sharing stories—moments you know you'll cherish. The hours slip by effortlessly, the energy of the bar feeding your spirits. You take turns on the dance floor, twirling and swaying to the beat, losing yourself in the music.

However, the joyous atmosphere is suddenly interrupted. A man, clearly intoxicated and insistent, stumbles over to your group. His persistence in trying to join in your celebration is neither welcomed nor appreciated.

"Come on, ladies, let me buy you all a drink," he slurs, leaning too close for comfort.

"Come on, you know you want to hang out with me," he mumbles repeatedly, his words barely coherent. Despite Jian and the others insisting that he leave, he continues to bother you all.

"Seriously, we're not interested," Eunji says firmly, trying to wave him off.

Your warm demeanor turns serious. You step forward, positioning yourself between the man and your friends. "Okay, that's enough. You need to back off now," you state clearly, your tone leaving no room for misinterpretation.

He doesn't seem to get the hint, remaining obstinate. Your heart quickens, a mix of annoyance and unease settling in, but you maintain your composure. Excusing yourself for a moment, you pull out your phone and quickly text In-ho, explaining what's happening:

Hey. There's a drunk guy at the bar who won't leave us alone. I'm handling it, but just wanted you to know.

As you hit send, you look back at your friends, their faces showing a mixture of worry and solidarity. You know they'll have your back, but it's reassuring to have In-ho in the loop.

Not long after, you hear your phone ping with a response: On my way. Stay safe.

You take a deep breath, feeling a bit more at ease knowing In-ho will be there soon. For now, you tighten the circle with your friends, each of you drawing strength from one another as you continue to ward off the unwelcome intrusion.

—

Receiving your text, In-ho's face hardens, his normally calm expression tightening with a mixture of concern and anger. His initial worry morphs swiftly into a cold, determined resolve. He doesn’t hesitate; there’s no time to waste. Grabbing his jacket, he quickly notifies his guards about the situation, ensuring they are prepared for any potential dangers. With thoughts of your safety driving every step he takes, he heads out the door.

The journey to the bar feels longer than ever, each second ticking by painfully slow. His mind races with possibilities of what could be happening, each scenario pushing him to move faster. When he finally arrives, there's a palpable shift in the atmosphere. In-ho's presence is commanding, a figure of undeniable authority and strength stepping through the threshold. The dim, chaotic ambiance of the bar quivers under his scrutiny. Conversations pause, patrons instinctively stepping aside as if drawn by an unspoken rule of respect and fear.

As he weaves through the crowd with purpose, his eyes scan the room until they lock onto you. Instantly, a wave of relief washes over you. You see him, your guardian, your firm anchor in the tempest. The storm in your heart subsides, if only for a moment, at the sight of him.

"Is there a problem here?" In-ho’s voice is icy, cutting through the noise of the bar like a blade. The man bothering you turns to face him, eyes filled with a mix of anger and fear. The authority in In-ho's demeanor is unmistakable, and it quickly becomes clear to the harasser that he's made a mistake.

The man's bravado falters for a moment, but then he straightens his shoulders and narrows his eyes at In-ho. "Mind your own business," he sneers, attempting to regain some semblance of control over the situation.

In-ho's expression remains unchanged, his gaze unwavering. "I'm warning you. Leave now."

The man hesitates, but his foolish pride gets the better of him. He clenches his fists, his jaw tightening. "I said, mind your own business!" he shouts, attracting the attention of nearby patrons.

In-ho sighs, a glint of anger flickering in his eyes. Normally, he would have laid the guy out without a second thought—no questions asked. But he remembered how much you had voiced that fighting scares you. He's trying his best to honor that. "This is your last warning. Walk away."

Instead of heeding the warning, the man foolishly tries to swing at In-ho in a last-ditch effort to save face. In one fluid motion, In-ho dodges the punch and delivers a swift, powerful jab to the man's jaw. The impact sends the man stumbling backwards.

Before the harasser can recover, In-ho steps forward, his movements precise and controlled. He catches the man's arm, twists it behind his back, and restrains him with an ease that speaks volumes of his training and strength.

"That was a mistake," In-ho says, his voice low and dangerous.

Within seconds, two of In-ho's guards appear at either side of him. They take the man away, their grip unyielding as they escort him out of the bar.

In-ho turns to you, his earlier concern evident in the way he carefully scans you for any signs of harm. His eyes trace over your form, checking for bruises or cuts, and only when he's reassured that you're physically unscathed does his expression soften into one of gentle protectiveness. "Are you alright?" he asks, his voice tender and filled with genuine concern.

Satisfied that you’re not hurt, he meets your eyes, offering a comforting presence amidst the chaos that has unfolded.

You hug him with gratitude. "Thanks for being here, It means a lot to me."

He holds you close, his grip reassuring, and kisses your head softly. "Don't thank me. It's my job to protect you."

As you leave the bar together, a small smile tugs at your lips. Despite the challenges in his life, In-ho’s presence brings a sense of warmth and stability to your world. Together, you find balance and understanding in each other's company.

In-ho gently takes your hand, his grip firm and protective. "You're never leaving my side again," he says, his voice filled with unwavering determination.

[nasa]

All-Star Moments in Space Communications and Navigation

How do we get information from missions exploring the cosmos back to humans on Earth? Our space communications and navigation networks – the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network – bring back science and exploration data daily.

Here are a few of our favorite moments from 2024.

1. Hip-Hop to Deep Space

The stars above and on Earth aligned as lyrics from the song “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” by hip-hop artist Missy Elliott were beamed to Venus via NASA’s Deep Space Network. Using a 34-meter (112-foot) wide Deep Space Station 13 (DSS-13) radio dish antenna, located at the network’s Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex in California, the song was sent at 10:05 a.m. PDT on Friday, July 12 and traveled about 158 million miles from Earth to Venus — the artist’s favorite planet. Coincidentally, the DSS-13 that sent the transmission is also nicknamed Venus!

NASA's PACE mission transmitting data to Earth through NASA's Near Space Network.

2. Lemme Upgrade You

Our Near Space Network, which supports communications for space-based missions within 1.2 million miles of Earth, is constantly enhancing its capabilities to support science and exploration missions. Last year, the network implemented DTN (Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking), which provides robust protection of data traveling from extreme distances. NASA’s PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission is the first operational science mission to leverage the network’s DTN capabilities. Since PACE’s launch, over 17 million bundles of data have been transmitted by the satellite and received by the network’s ground station.

A collage of the pet photos sent over laser links from Earth to LCRD and finally to ILLUMA-T (Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal) on the International Space Station. Animals submitted include cats, dogs, birds, chickens, cows, snakes, and pigs.

3. Who Doesn’t Love Pets?

Last year, we transmitted hundreds of pet photos and videos to the International Space Station, showcasing how laser communications can send more data at once than traditional methods. Imagery of cherished pets gathered from NASA astronauts and agency employees flowed from the mission ops center to the optical ground stations and then to the in-space Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), which relayed the signal to a payload on the space station. This activity demonstrated how laser communications and high-rate DTN can benefit human spaceflight missions.

4K video footage was routed from the PC-12 aircraft to an optical ground station in Cleveland. From there, it was sent over an Earth-based network to NASA’s White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The signals were then sent to NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration spacecraft and relayed to the ILLUMA-T payload on the International Space Station.

4. Now Streaming

A team of engineers transmitted 4K video footage from an aircraft to the International Space Station and back using laser communication signals. Historically, we have relied on radio waves to send information to and from space. Laser communications use infrared light to transmit 10 to 100 times more data than radio frequency systems. The flight tests were part of an agency initiative to stream high-bandwidth video and other data from deep space, enabling future human missions beyond low-Earth orbit.

The Near Space Network provides missions within 1.2 million miles of Earth with communications and navigation services.

5. New Year, New Relationships

At the very end of 2024, the Near Space Network announced multiple contract awards to enhance the network’s services portfolio. The network, which uses a blend of government and commercial assets to get data to and from spacecraft, will be able to support more missions observing our Earth and exploring the cosmos. These commercial assets, alongside the existing network, will also play a critical role in our Artemis campaign, which calls for long-term exploration of the Moon.

On Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, at 12:06 p.m. EDT, a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket carrying NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft lifts off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

6. 3, 2, 1, Blast Off!

Together, the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network supported the launch of Europa Clipper. The Near Space Network provided communications and navigation services to SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket, which launched this Jupiter-bound mission into space! After vehicle separation, the Deep Space Network acquired Europa Clipper’s signal and began full mission support. This is another example of how these networks work together seamlessly to ensure critical mission success.

Engineer Adam Gannon works on the development of Cognitive Engine-1 in the Cognitive Communications Lab at NASA’s Glenn Research Center.

7. Make Way for Next-Gen Tech

Our Technology Education Satellite program organizes collaborative missions that pair university students with researchers to evaluate how new technologies work on small satellites, also known as CubeSats. In 2024, cognitive communications technology, designed to enable autonomous space communications systems, was successfully tested in space on the Technology Educational Satellite 11 mission. Autonomous systems use technology reactive to their environment to implement updates during a spaceflight mission without needing human interaction post-launch.

A first: All six radio frequency antennas at the Madrid Deep Space Communication Complex, part of NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN), carried out a test to receive data from the agency’s Voyager 1 spacecraft at the same time.

8. Six Are Better Than One

On April 20, 2024, all six radio frequency antennas at the Madrid Deep Space Communication Complex, part of our Deep Space Network, carried out a test to receive data from the agency’s Voyager 1 spacecraft at the same time. Combining the antennas’ receiving power, or arraying, lets the network collect the very faint signals from faraway spacecraft.

Here’s to another year connecting Earth and space.  

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space!

[richdadpoor]

'Technical Issue' Leaves UK Airline Passengers Stranded

Flights in the UK were severely delayed or canceled on Monday following a “technical issue” impacting more than 500 flights. The technical problems have since been resolved, but passengers are still impacted by the delays and cancellations, prompting many airlines to try to rebook passengers on flights for later this week. This Giant Company Owns Almost Every Dating App Britain’s National Air…

[reidmarieprentiss]

Forever & Always

Summary: At 28-years-old Spencer Reid finally has his first girlfriend, you. You are bold, confident, and experienced, everything he's not, and he feels very insecure because of it. You own your own nightclub, and when Sean Hotchner needs a job, you let him come and work for you. Spencer can't handle this attractive womanizer being in your space all day long. Will the two of you make it through this?

Pairing: Spencer Reid x fem!reader

Category: fluff, angst, smut (18+)

Warnings/Includes: smut (18+) additional warnings under the cut, virgin Spencer, insecurities, not trusting partner, arguing, threatening people, therapy

Word count: 22.3k

a/n: Sean Hotchner is a treat for the eyes ,, but no one will ever be better than Spencer -- genuinely one of my favorite fics !!

main masterlist

Additional warnings: grinding, finishing in pants (m), light breast play, handjob

Spencer had always been confident in his knowledge, his intelligence a constant source of reassurance in his life. But this—this was different. Sitting across from you in the dimly lit coffee shop, his eyes flickered nervously to the table, then back to you. You were animated, telling a story about your friends, your laugh bright and infectious, but Spencer found it hard to focus. His mind kept drifting back to that quiet, gnawing feeling that had been lurking for a while now. 

You were his first real girlfriend. At 28, Spencer Reid had never been in a serious relationship, at least not one that had progressed beyond awkward dates or brief romantic entanglements that always seemed to fizzle out before they even began. But you were different. You were confident, experienced in ways he wasn’t. It wasn’t just about the relationship itself. It was everything. You had dated other people before him, had your fair share of relationships and even casual hook-ups. The weight of it pressed down on him like an invisible burden, one he wasn’t sure how to navigate.

Spencer forced a smile, willing the tension in his chest to settle as you finished your story, your words floating through the air like a melody. He didn’t want to let on that something was bothering him, not when he saw how happy you looked. He couldn’t be the one to disrupt that joy. 

“Spence?” Your voice softened as you noticed the subtle shift in his expression, the way his eyes lingered on you a little too long, as if he was lost in thought. “You okay?”

He blinked, his face instantly smoothing into a look of reassurance. “Yeah, I’m fine,” he replied quickly, his voice a bit too light. “I was just really... engaged in what you were saying. You always tell such great stories.”

Your smile brightened, the warmth of his words making you feel lighter, like you were walking on air. You chuckled, your fingers playing with the rim of your coffee cup as you gazed at him. “You smooth talker.”

Spencer returned your smile, but beneath it, a twinge of doubt lingered. He didn’t want you to think there was anything wrong—didn’t want to give away the insecurity gnawing at him. He wasn’t used to this, wasn’t used to feeling unsure about something. But the thought of appearing inferior to you, of not being enough, was something he couldn’t shake.

You, on the other hand, were oblivious to the internal struggle he was masking. You were just happy—so incredibly happy. In all your past relationships, there had been a constant feeling of walking on eggshells, of waiting for things to fall apart. But with Spencer, it was different. He was different. His kindness, his gentle heart, his brilliant mind—it was everything you hadn’t even realized you were searching for.

Spencer was the best person you had ever dated. And it scared you, deeply. The fear of messing things up gnawed at the back of your mind constantly. What if this ended the same way your past relationships had? What if this incredible thing you had with Spencer was fleeting, destined to crumble just like all the others?

But you didn’t want to think about that now. Not when you were sitting here with him, sharing moments that felt real, that felt good. You let out a breath, pushing away the nagging thoughts. Spencer made you feel like maybe, just maybe, this time could be different.

You caught his gaze again, your eyes softening as you took him in. “You know,” you started, leaning in a little closer, “I feel so lucky to have met you, Spencer. You’re... you’re unlike anyone I’ve ever been with.”

Spencer's heart ached at your words, a bittersweet pang that settled deep in his chest. You said it with such sincerity, such affection, but all he could hear were the things that made him different in a way he didn’t want to be. Of course, he was unlike anyone else you’d been with. How could he compare to the others? He was awkward, inexperienced, and—by his own assessment—weird. The guy who overthought everything, who could recite obscure facts but had no idea how to casually flirt or initiate a kiss without rehearsing it a dozen times in his head first.

So he forced a weak smile, nodding as if your words had filled him with the same happiness they brought you. But inside, it only made him feel more out of place, like he was somehow failing at this relationship without you even knowing.

“Thanks,” he murmured, his voice softer than he intended. He wanted to say more, wanted to tell you that being with you was the best thing that had ever happened to him. But instead, he let the moment pass, watching as your face lit up with excitement, diving into another story.

He focused on your words, or at least tried to. You had this way of captivating him, of pulling him into whatever you were talking about, but right now, it was harder to stay present. The feeling of inadequacy, of not being enough, pressed heavily on him. As you talked about past adventures, dates with friends, and experiences that felt so far removed from anything he’d ever known, Spencer couldn’t help as his fingers nervously tapped against the side of his cup, his mind wandering.

—

It was late, well past midnight, when you noticed Spencer’s quiet sigh as he shifted beside you in bed. The room was dimly lit by the soft glow of the bedside lamp, casting long shadows on the walls. You had been reading, but you couldn’t focus on the book in your hands. Not when you could feel the weight of something pressing down on Spencer.

You set the book aside, turning onto your side to face him, your hand resting gently on his chest. “Spence,” you whispered softly, “what’s going on?”

His gaze remained fixed on the ceiling for a long moment before he sighed again, his fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns along your arm where it draped over him. “I don’t know,” he muttered, though the heaviness in his voice said otherwise.

You waited, knowing that he would open up when he was ready. That was how these late-night conversations always started. Sometimes it took a while for Spencer to find the words to express what was on his mind, and you had learned to give him that space.

Eventually, he turned his head to look at you, his brow furrowed, eyes shadowed with the insecurities he often tried to hide. “It’s just... I keep thinking about how different we are. You’ve had all these experiences, and I... haven’t. I’m still figuring things out, and sometimes I worry... I worry that it’s not enough for you. That I’m not enough.”

Your heart ached for him, the depth of his vulnerability cutting through the quiet of the night. You shifted closer, wrapping your arms around him, holding him as tightly as you could. “Spencer,” you whispered against his shoulder, “I don’t care about any of that. You being a—less experienced… doesn’t matter to me. It never has, and it never will.”

He let out a soft, shaky breath, his arms coming around you in return, but the tension in his body didn’t fully ease. “But what if... what if you change your mind? What if one day you realize I’m... I’m just not enough? I don’t know how to be what you deserve.”

You pulled back slightly, just enough to look him in the eye. “Spence, listen to me,” you said firmly but gently. “You are enough. You’ve always been enough. I didn’t fall in love with you because of some checklist of experiences or expectations. I fell in love with you. All of you. The dorkiness, the brilliance, the way you look at the world. I don’t care if you never want to have sex, or if we figure it out together. What matters is that I love you, exactly as you are.”

He swallowed hard, his gaze flickering down to where your fingers were tracing soothing circles on his chest. “I want to believe that,” he whispered, his voice so small, so fragile.

You pressed a soft kiss to his temple. “I know it’s hard,” you murmured, your lips brushing against his skin. “But I’m not going anywhere. I’m here. With you. Always.”

For a moment, there was only the sound of your breathing and the quiet hum of the world outside. Spencer’s grip on you tightened as if holding on to the reassurance you offered. The doubt didn’t disappear entirely—it never really did. But you could feel him relax into your embrace, letting himself lean on you, trusting in your words even if the insecurities still lingered.

“You know,” you said after a while, a playful lilt entering your voice to lighten the mood, “you’re not the only one who has insecurities, Spence.”

He turned his head, curiosity softening the edges of his earlier worry. “What do you mean?”

You shrugged, a small smile tugging at your lips. “I’m terrified of messing this up. Of somehow ruining the best thing that’s ever happened to me.” Your voice was light, but the truth behind it was evident.

His brow furrowed, clearly confused. “You? You’re worried about messing things up?”

You nodded, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. “Yeah. Every relationship I’ve had before this… it’s ended in an unsavory way. I don’t want that to happen with us, I don’t want us to end at all. You’re different, Spencer. In the best way. And I want this to last.”

Spencer’s expression softened, a small, almost shy smile appearing on his face. “I guess we’re both a little scared, then.”

“Maybe,” you agreed, resting your forehead against his. “But we’re in this together, okay? No matter what happens, we’ll figure it out.”

He kissed you then, a tender, lingering kiss that felt like a promise. When you pulled away, he whispered, “I don’t know what I did to deserve you.”

You smiled, your heart swelling with affection. “You deserve every bit of happiness, Spencer Reid. Don’t ever doubt that.”

Though the insecurities never fully went away, they didn’t define your relationship. Over time, those late-night conversations became a safe place for both of you, a time to share your fears and your hopes, to remind each other of what you had.

And despite the occasional moments of doubt, you and Spencer were happy—truly happy. You built a relationship that was healthy, full of love, trust, and understanding. You were a team, navigating life together, and every step forward only brought you closer.

Because, in the end, it wasn’t about who had more experience or who was more confident. It was about being there, for each other, in every way that mattered. And that was more than enough.

—

Sean Hotchner leaned against the doorframe of Aaron’s office, his disheveled appearance a stark contrast to the professional atmosphere of the BAU. His hair was longer than Aaron remembered, tousled in a way that made it look like he had just rolled out of bed. The leather jacket slung over his shoulder was worn, his jeans frayed at the edges. Aaron barely looked up from his paperwork as Sean cleared his throat, but the tension in the room was palpable.

"Sean," Aaron greeted flatly, his tone carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken frustrations. He didn’t even need to ask why his younger brother was here. Sean only showed up when he needed something.

“Aaron, man, I need help,” Sean began, already trying to soften his tone as he stepped inside. He glanced at the bullpen behind him, noticing the open door but not caring enough to close it. "I, uh, got fired from my job. Again."

Aaron’s jaw tightened, his hand clenching around the pen he held. "And?"

"And I lost my apartment," Sean continued, running a hand through his hair. "I don't have anywhere to go. I was hoping… I could crash with you for a bit. Just until I get back on my feet."

Aaron finally looked up, his dark eyes narrowing as he studied his brother. His fingers drummed impatiently against the desk as he exhaled through his nose. “So, let me get this straight—you got fired, again, and now you’re asking to live with me? Sean, this is the third time. When are you going to take responsibility for your life?”

Sean shifted uncomfortably, glancing down at his boots. “I know, I know. It’s just... I hit a rough patch, alright? I’ll figure it out, I just need some time.”

Aaron’s frustration boiled just beneath the surface, his voice rising slightly, enough that it carried out into the bullpen. “You always say that, Sean. ‘I’ll figure it out.’ But you never do. I can’t keep bailing you out every time you screw up.”

In the bullpen, the conversation didn’t go unnoticed. Everyone sat at their desks, their eyes darting toward Aaron’s office. Emily leaned over to JJ, lowering her voice but not enough to hide her words.

“Is that Hotch’s brother?” Emily whispered, her eyes widening as she watched Sean from across the room.

JJ nodded, her gaze flicking between Aaron’s stern expression and Sean’s slouched posture. “Yeah, that’s Sean. He hasn’t been around in a while.”

Penelope, standing nearby, leaned in with wide, curious eyes. “Okay, but, uh... is it just me or is Sean... kind of hot?”

Emily raised an eyebrow, a teasing smirk forming on her lips. “Oh, it’s not just you. He’s definitely got that... bad boy thing going on.”

JJ chuckled softly, shaking her head. “You two are terrible.”

Penelope shrugged dramatically. “What? I mean, I’ve heard stories, but I didn’t know Hotch had such an attractive brother! Seriously, if I didn’t know better, I’d be thinking some very impure thoughts right now.”

“Garcia,” JJ admonished lightly, but she was clearly amused.

They all tried to suppress their laughter, watching as Aaron’s stern voice carried into the bullpen, his frustration with Sean evident. But they couldn’t help the whispered commentary as Sean stood there, looking like the picture of trouble.

“I’d hate to see what Hotch is going to do to him once that door closes,” Emily mused, shaking her head. “But I have to admit, he’s got a certain... charm.”

Penelope wiggled her eyebrows playfully. “Maybe I should go in there and offer him some moral support.”

JJ rolled her eyes, grinning. “Yeah, I’m sure that’s exactly what he needs right now.”

Back in the office, Aaron had stood up, his hands planted firmly on his desk as he glared at Sean. "You need to grow up, Sean. This can’t keep happening. I’ve got Jack to think about now. I’m not running a halfway house."

Sean's shoulders slumped, his voice lowering as he tried to appease his brother. "I know, Aaron. But I don’t have anyone else. Please, just this one last time. I swear I won’t mess it up."

Aaron ran a hand over his face, torn between anger and the sense of duty he always felt toward his family, no matter how much they disappointed him. His voice softened slightly, but only just. “This is the last time, Sean. I mean it.”

Sean gave a small nod, grateful but visibly embarrassed, as he mumbled, “Thanks, man. I owe you.”

As he turned to leave the office, the gossiping trio quickly straightened up, trying to look busy. But as Sean made his way toward the exit, Penelope couldn’t resist shooting one last glance, her voice barely above a whisper. “I mean... Hotch’s brother, right? Who knew?”

JJ stifled a laugh, shaking her head as she turned back to her paperwork. Meanwhile, Emily just smiled knowingly, her eyes trailing after Sean for a moment longer before settling back into work.

No one noticed Spencer sitting at his desk behind them, listening to every word.

—

That evening you and Spencer sat across from each other at your dining table, plates of food between you, but Spencer’s voice held an unusual tension as he recounted the events of the day. His fork poked absentmindedly at his meal, his eyes flickering between you and his plate as he spoke.

“So, Sean Hotchner showed up at the bureau today,” Spencer began, his tone neutral but carrying an undercurrent of something heavier. “Apparently, he’s having a tough time. Lost his job again.”

You tilted your head slightly, setting your fork down to give him your full attention. “Sean? Aaron’s younger brother, right?”

Spencer nodded. “Yeah. He’s... been bouncing around, trying to figure things out. He came to Hotch for help, and it sounds like he’s pretty desperate.”

You sighed softly, a familiar pang tugging at your heart. You knew that feeling all too well—the desperation, the uncertainty of trying to rebuild when everything felt like it was crumbling. “That’s rough. I feel for him. It’s not easy trying to make something of yourself when you’ve hit rock bottom.”

Spencer glanced at you, his brows knitting together slightly. He knew your story, knew how hard you had worked to pull yourself up and build something successful out of nothing. Owning a nightclub wasn’t just a job—it was a symbol of everything you had overcome.

You took a sip of your drink, lost in thought for a moment before something clicked. “Does Sean have any bartending experience?”

Spencer raised an eyebrow, clearly not expecting the question. “Uh, yeah, actually. He’s worked at a few bars. That’s where he got fired from, this last place.”

A smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you reached for your phone, fingers quickly typing out a message. Spencer watched, a flicker of confusion crossing his face.

“What are you doing?” he asked, trying to keep his voice casual, though his curiosity was piqued.

You looked up, still smiling as you explained, “I’m texting Hotch. I can offer Sean a working interview tomorrow at my club. We’re always looking for good bartenders, and if he’s in need, it’s worth a shot, right?”

Spencer froze, his fork hovering in mid-air, his brain scrambling to catch up with what you’d just said. He forced a smile, but there was a storm brewing inside him. Not because you had texted Hotch—Spencer had long accepted that your relationship with his boss had developed into a friendly, professional one—but because of Sean.

He had seen Sean walk into the bureau today, watched as the women in the office had practically swooned when they saw him. Sean was tall, undeniably attractive, with an easy charm that Spencer knew was irresistible. It didn’t help that Sean had a reputation. Spencer knew he had “gotten around,” experienced in ways that Spencer wasn’t. And now, Sean was going to be working for you, in your club, where you’d be seeing him regularly.

Jealousy gnawed at Spencer’s insides, dark and insidious, feeding on his deepest fears—that one day, someone else would come along. Someone like Sean. More experienced, more charming, more… everything.

But he couldn’t let you see that. He couldn’t let you know how much this was eating at him. So, instead, he plastered on a smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes, and leaned back in his chair.

“That’s... that’s really generous of you,” Spencer said, his voice steady, betraying none of the turmoil he felt. “I’m proud of you, honestly. It’s such a kind thing to do, helping him out like that.”

You beamed at his words, unaware of the storm raging inside him. “Well, it just makes sense, you know? If he’s a good bartender, why not give him a chance? It’s not like I’m handing him the job—he still has to prove himself.”

Spencer nodded, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched you. He could see how happy you were to be able to help, how genuine your intentions were, and it only made him feel worse for the insecurities twisting in his gut.

You reached across the table, taking his hand in yours. “I love you, Spence,” you said softly, your thumb brushing over his knuckles. “I’m glad you’re okay with this. I was worried you might think I was overstepping by getting involved.”

Spencer swallowed hard, squeezing your hand gently. “Of course I’m okay with it,” he lied, his smile still in place. “I love you too, and I’m so proud of how much you’ve accomplished. You’re always looking out for people, giving them chances. It’s one of the things I admire most about you.”

You smiled again, leaning across the table to kiss his cheek. “Thanks, Spence. That means a lot.”

As the conversation shifted to other topics, Spencer kept his mask firmly in place, not letting his doubts show. But deep down, that gnawing feeling refused to go away. No matter how much he tried to push it aside, the thought lingered: What if one day, you realized someone like Sean was better?

—

Sean had already impressed you the moment he walked through the doors of your nightclub, right on time for his working interview. Dressed in the attire you had specified—black from head to toe—he looked sharp and professional. You had expected someone more casual, maybe even a bit cocky given his reputation, but Sean Hotchner showed up ready to work.

Aaron had called earlier that morning, expressing his gratitude for your offer. "I really appreciate this," he had said, his voice heavy with something between relief and exhaustion. "But you don’t have to feel obligated to help Sean. He’s not your responsibility."

You had assured Aaron you didn’t mind at all. After all, you were always on the lookout for good bartenders. "Especially since I just promoted my best bartender to the VIP level," you had explained. “We’ve got space to fill, and if Sean can handle the bar, it’ll be a win-win.”

Now, as you watched Sean behind the bar, you felt a quiet sense of satisfaction. He moved with precision, taking orders smoothly, mixing drinks quickly, and keeping up with the flow of the night like a seasoned professional. It was clear he had experience, and that gave you a sense of relief. You had taken a chance on him by allowing him to skip the usual server stage, something you typically required of all new hires. But it seemed like that gamble was paying off.

You made your way over to the bar as Sean finished serving a group of customers. He noticed you approaching and straightened up, giving you a nod. "How’s it going?" you asked, leaning against the counter with an approving smile.

“So far, so good,” Sean replied, a hint of confidence in his voice. “I’m used to a fast pace. It feels good to be back behind the bar.”

You smiled, appreciating his composure. “I have to say, you’re doing a great job. I usually don’t let people jump straight to bartending, but you’ve handled everything perfectly tonight.”

Sean’s face lit up with a genuine smile, his posture relaxing a little. "Thanks, that means a lot."

You nodded, understanding the weight of those words. "I think we can skip the formalities—if you’re interested, the job’s yours."

Sean’s eyes widened slightly, clearly surprised by the offer. "Really? Just like that?"

"Just like that," you confirmed. "You’ve shown me enough tonight. You know what you’re doing, and I could use someone like you on the team."

He blinked, momentarily taken aback by the swiftness of it all, before breaking into a grin. "Thank you. Seriously, I won’t let you down."

"You’d better not," you teased, giving him a wink. "Welcome to the team."

As Sean returned to his work, you stood back, watching him interact with customers and noticing how well he fit in with the atmosphere of the club. He was a natural behind the bar, and you were already confident in your decision. 

The next day, before the crowd came in, Aaron stopped by to check on his brother. As you greeted him, he glanced toward the bar, where Sean was preparing before what was supposed to be a busy shift.

"I have to thank you again," Aaron said, his tone sincere. "Sean needed this, more than you know."

You shook your head, brushing off the sentiment with a smile. "He’s doing a great job. Honestly, I think I’m the one who got lucky. You were right—he’s not my responsibility, but I’m happy to have him here."

Aaron gave a small, appreciative nod, his face softening. "I’ll make sure he knows how grateful he should be. You’ve done more for him than you realize."

You smiled, watching as Sean continued his work, his focus sharp and his movements steady. "He’s earned it, Aaron. I’m glad I took the chance."

Later that night, the club was in full swing, lights flashing in sync with the beat of the music, and the energy was palpable. People crowded the dance floor, moving to the rhythm, while others clustered around the bar, talking and laughing as they sipped their drinks. You navigated the floor easily, greeting regulars and keeping an eye on how things were running. It was a typical Friday night—lively, loud, and just the way you liked it.

In the center of the dance floor, Derek and Emily were having the time of their lives. Derek had drawn Emily out to dance almost as soon as they arrived, and now the two were lost in the music. Emily laughed as Derek spun her around, her dark hair flying as she moved effortlessly with him. Their laughter echoed even over the thumping bass, and it was clear that they were in their element, shaking off the stress of the week.

“Come on, Em! You can do better than that!” Derek teased, flashing her that playful grin he was famous for.

“Oh, you think so?” Emily shot back, her competitive side kicking in as she matched his dance moves with a flick of her hips. “Watch and learn, Morgan.”

Nearby, JJ stood at a high-top table, sipping a cocktail while watching them, shaking her head with an amused smile. “They’re ridiculous,” she said, laughing softly.

“They’re having fun,” Penelope added, her eyes glowing with excitement as she scanned the room. “This place is amazing! Y/N has really outdone herself!”

But Spencer was quieter than the rest, standing a little farther back from the group, his drink untouched in his hand as his eyes remained locked on the bar where Sean worked. He wasn’t dancing or chatting like the others; his focus was entirely on you and Sean. Spencer’s jaw tightened slightly as he watched the two of you exchanging easy conversation. You stood at the bar, laughing at something Sean said as he mixed drinks with practiced ease.

Sean was good, no doubt about it. He looked completely in his element behind the bar, effortlessly charming customers as he handed out drinks, his smile quick and easy. And there you were, standing beside him, looking equally relaxed and at home in your own nightclub. You smiled at Sean, gave him a friendly nudge as you helped out, your laughter ringing out above the hum of the crowd.

Spencer’s grip on his glass tightened just a fraction.

"Spence?" JJ’s voice pulled him out of his spiral. She was looking at him with concern, her head tilted slightly. "You good?"

Spencer quickly forced a smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just… thinking.”

JJ gave him a knowing look but didn’t press further. “You sure? You’ve been staring at the bar for a while now.”

Spencer swallowed, forcing his gaze away from the scene. “Just... keeping an eye on things,” he said, trying to sound casual.

But his eyes drifted back, drawn to the way you leaned in close to talk to Sean, laughing easily at something he said. Spencer clenched his jaw, trying to shake off the irrational jealousy. He didn’t want to feel this way—not when he trusted you so deeply. But the insecurities simmered just beneath the surface, no matter how much he tried to tamp them down.

At the bar, you noticed Spencer’s gaze from across the room, giving him a quick wave and a bright smile, unaware of the storm brewing in his head. Spencer waved back, forcing himself to return your smile, but his heart was still heavy with the weight of his unspoken fears.

As Derek and Emily continued to dance, their carefree energy a stark contrast to the tension building inside Spencer, he tried to push his jealousy aside. He wanted to trust in what you had, to remind himself that you loved him, not Sean.

But as he watched you lean against the bar, your attention completely on Sean as he worked, Spencer couldn’t help but feel that gnawing insecurity settle deeper in his chest.

Spencer’s eyes flickered toward you again as you moved across the club, checking on customers, making sure everything was running smoothly. Even in your all-black uniform, which was meant to look professional, you somehow made it look effortlessly chic. The fitted black blazer, the lace tights, and that sleek skirt—it all came together in a way that caught people's attention. And it wasn’t just the customers. Spencer saw how Sean’s gaze lingered a little too long every time you walked away, his eyes drifting down to the hem of your skirt, to the low neckline of your top.

It didn’t sit right with Spencer. He tried to tell himself that Sean wasn’t doing anything out of line—he was just looking, and maybe that was normal. You looked amazing, after all. But it gnawed at him, the way Sean’s eyes followed you, the way he smiled that easy, flirtatious smile at customers and coworkers alike. There was something too comfortable about the way Sean was acting, and Spencer couldn’t shake the irritation growing in his chest.

JJ was talking with Penelope next to him, her attention catching on Sean’s antics at the bar. She chuckled, leaning closer to Spencer, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. “Classic Sean,” she said, shaking her head as she watched him chat up a group of women by the bar. “Talking up every person within earshot.”

Spencer didn’t laugh. He didn’t find it funny. His fingers gripped his drink a little tighter, his jaw tensing as he tried to ignore the bubbling jealousy rising inside him. Sean wasn’t just talking to the women, he was clearly charming them, making them giggle and blush with every word.

Why did I even come tonight? Spencer thought to himself. Maybe staying home would have been the better option. Watching Sean work the bar—watching him charm the customers, and worse, watching him look at you—was a slow burn of frustration that Spencer didn’t know how to handle.

JJ nudged him lightly with her elbow. “You sure you’re alright, Spence?”

He forced a smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Yeah, I promise, I’m fine,” he said quietly, though his thoughts were far from fine.

He didn’t want to seem insecure, didn’t want to show just how much Sean’s presence was bothering him. But it was hard to shake the image of Sean’s lingering glances, the flirtatious air about him, and the unsettling thought that maybe, just maybe, Sean was good for you in ways that Spencer wasn’t.

As you made your way over to Spencer and his friends, completely unaware of the internal storm that had been brewing inside your boyfriend all night, your smile brightened when you saw him. “Hi, baby,” you said sweetly, leaning down to give Spencer a quick peck on the lips.

But to your surprise, instead of the brief kiss you were expecting, Spencer’s hands found their way to your waist, pulling you in closer as he deepened the kiss. His lips lingered on yours longer than usual, and the intensity of the gesture caught you off guard. You could feel the heat of his hands through the fabric of your blazer, the possessiveness in his grip that was unlike him, especially in public.

When you finally pulled back, slightly dazed, your cheeks flushed as you whispered, “Damn, baby, what did I do to deserve that?” You playfully tucked a loose strand of his hair behind his ear, grinning at him.

Spencer’s grip on you didn’t falter. In fact, he pulled you even closer, positioning you between his spread thighs from where he sat on the stool. His gaze was soft, but there was something in his eyes, something deeper. “You just look so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice low, almost vulnerable. “I couldn’t help myself.”

Your heart fluttered at his words, feeling heat rise to your face. Spencer wasn’t usually so bold, so forward—especially not in front of other people. The sweet boy you loved was often shy, reserved, but this moment? This was different. It was as if he was trying to show you something, stake a quiet claim that you couldn’t quite understand.

You gave him another quick kiss, smiling softly against his lips before pulling back. “Well, thank you,” you said, feeling your own cheeks flush. You glanced at the group with a bright smile before excusing yourself to check on a few things at the bar. As you walked away, Spencer’s eyes followed you, his hand still resting on his thigh, feeling the lingering warmth where he’d held you close.

No sooner had you disappeared from view than Penelope was already nudging Spencer with a playful grin. “Spencer Reid!” she teased, her voice brimming with amusement as she lightly slapped his shoulder. “Save it for later, horn dog!”

Spencer felt his entire face turn scarlet, his heart pounding with embarrassment. He wasn’t trying to be… well, that! But the way Penelope’s eyes twinkled, the implication that she thought the two of you were all over each other in that way, made him squirm in his seat.

“Oh, come on, don’t blush, pretty boy,” Penelope giggled, thoroughly enjoying his discomfort. “You’ve been staring at her all night. We know what’s on your mind.”

JJ joined in, her laugh warm and teasing. “Yeah, Spence, is that why you’ve been keeping an eye on her all night? Can’t wait to get Y/N all to yourself later?”

Spencer wished he could disappear into thin air. He shrugged, trying to play it cool despite the heat rising to his ears. “Something like that,” he muttered, but the truth weighed heavier on him than he wanted to admit.

It wasn’t that Spencer wasn’t physically attracted to you—he adored every part of you—but the teasing only made him feel more inadequate, more aware of the gap between your experience and his. The others didn’t know. They had no idea that he hadn’t crossed the line into physical intimacy with you yet, despite your relationship being serious, despite you having already moved in together and said “I love you.” 

Most couples would have by now, he thought bitterly. And everyone else, Penelope and JJ included—they probably assumed you two were just like everyone else, that he was just another guy in a committed relationship. The teasing implied as much.

But Spencer knew the truth, and it gnawed at him—those dark fears he kept bottled up, that you would eventually find someone more experienced, more capable, someone who could offer you more than he ever could.

The soft click of the door echoed through the apartment as you stepped inside, already feeling the exhaustion from the long night creeping in. It was well past 3:00 a.m., the time when the world was quiet, and you expected the same from your apartment. Usually, Spencer would be fast asleep by now, his rhythmic breathing a comforting sound you’d find when you crawled into bed after closing the club. But tonight, as you set your bag down and kicked off your heels, you were surprised to see the warm glow of a lamp in the living room.

Spencer was sitting in his favorite green armchair, the soft pages of a book resting in his lap as he looked up, a sleepy but genuine grin spreading across his face. The sight of him there, waiting for you, made your heart swell. His hair was slightly disheveled, his long fingers trailing off the edge of the chair as he beckoned you closer with open arms.

“Hi, sweetheart,” he mumbled, his voice warm and low, the kind of greeting that made you feel instantly at home.

You couldn’t resist the invitation, crossing the room in a few quick strides before slipping into his arms, settling into the chair with him. “Hi, my love,” you sighed, leaning into his warmth, your face nuzzling into the crook of his neck as you inhaled his familiar scent. The combination of coffee and books was something uniquely Spencer, and it always made you feel safe.

“How was closing?” he asked, his voice gentle as his hand moved to stroke your back in slow, soothing circles.

You shivered lightly at his touch, enjoying the familiar rhythm of his fingers. “It was fine,” you murmured, your breath soft against his neck. “Sean is so much faster than Amber was. It makes things a lot easier.”

As soon as the words left your lips, you felt it. The way Spencer’s body tensed beneath you, the way his hand paused for a fraction of a second before continuing. You didn’t think much of it at first—maybe he was just tired—but then his touch changed. The gentle strokes on your back turned into something more deliberate, more intent as his hand slid lower.

“Hmmm,” Spencer hummed, his tone almost too casual. “I’m glad he’s been helpful.”

You opened your mouth to continue, but your thoughts trailed off as Spencer’s hand slid down further, past the small of your back, coming to rest on your thigh. His fingers pressed into the fabric there, his thumb tracing slow circles that sent a shiver through you. At first, you didn’t think much of it—Spencer’s touch was always affectionate, but this felt different.

“Yeah, he really has been—” Your sentence was cut short as Spencer’s hand traveled higher, his fingers brushing over your ass with a boldness that caught you off guard. His touch was unmistakable now, filled with an intensity you weren’t used to seeing from your typically gentle and reserved boyfriend.

You lifted your head, pulling back slightly to look into his eyes, searching for the meaning behind this sudden shift. His gaze was dark, filled with something you hadn’t seen before—jealousy and possessiveness that simmered just beneath the surface.

“Is this okay?” Spencer asked, his voice a little rougher than usual, his hand still resting firmly on your body.

You blinked, your heart racing a little faster as you processed his question. “Yeah, baby, of course,” you whispered, stroking his cheek softly with your thumb. You gave him a reassuring smile, letting him know there was nothing to be uncertain about. “You can touch me anywhere.”

At your words, you felt something shift in Spencer. A quiet storm brewing behind his soft exterior, flared up. His hand flexed against you, and you could see it in his eyes now—he was staking his claim, reminding himself, and maybe even you, that he was the one who had the right to be close to you like this.

He was the one allowed to touch you, to hold you, to love you. Not Sean, not anyone else. Only him.

Without another word, Spencer pulled you closer, his grip on you tightening slightly as if to make sure you understood. You weren’t sure where this sudden intensity came from, but it made your heart race in a different way. This wasn’t the soft, shy Spencer you were used to. This was something deeper, something more primal. And for a moment, you were both wrapped up in it, the quiet room charged with unspoken tension.

You pressed a kiss to his lips, slow and tender, hoping to ease whatever storm was brewing inside him. “Spence,” you whispered against his lips, “I’m yours.”

Spencer's heart pounded in his chest as the moment stretched between you. He had always felt a deep sense of attraction for you, but acting on it had been something he’d carefully avoided—out of nervousness, out of insecurity. But tonight there was something about the way you had reassured him, the way you said he could touch you, that ignited a new kind of confidence in him. 

He leaned down, closing the space between you, and kissed you with a passion that surprised even him. It was much like the kiss you’d shared earlier at the club, only this time there was an intensity behind it—a hunger that had been quietly building for a long time. His hands found your waist, pulling you closer as his lips moved with yours, no longer tentative, but sure, as though he had made a silent decision within himself.

You were taken aback for only a brief moment, but not at all upset by the new direction your night was taking. If anything, you were thrilled to see this side of him, this bolder, more assertive Spencer. You brought both hands up to cradle his face, your thumbs gently stroking his jawline as you kissed him back, pouring all your affection into the moment. His hands, meanwhile, began to roam your body, exploring what little he could in this current position, his fingers tracing the curve of your hips, your thighs. There was an eagerness in his touch, a yearning that you could feel pulsing from him.

You could sense that he wanted more, that he wasn’t sure how to ask for it, but you knew. You knew exactly what he needed. Without a word, you sat up from where you were nestled in his lap, moving slowly so you could shift your position. You swung one leg over him, straddling his lap and settling back down, your hands resting lightly on his shoulders. Then, with a teasing smile, you took his hands in yours, guiding them back to where he seemed to want them the most—onto your ass. 

“Better?” you asked, your smirk playful, though your heart was racing just as fast as his.

Spencer’s breath hitched slightly, the weight of your body on his lap combined with the newfound freedom in his touch making him dizzy with need. His fingers instinctively squeezed the flesh beneath them, reveling in the feeling of holding you like this, of having you so close.

“Much,” he managed to say, his voice weak with desire, his eyes wide as he looked up at you. He leaned forward again, capturing your lips in another kiss, more urgent this time. His hands tightened around you, holding you as if afraid you might slip away. You could feel the tension in his body as he leaned into the kiss, the way he was holding back so much yet giving in more than he ever had before.

The kiss deepened, and you could feel the heat between you building as his hands roamed your back, your thighs, then found their way back to your ass, squeezing you with newfound confidence. He wasn’t just nervous Spencer anymore—he was Spencer who wanted you, and that thought made you smile against his lips.

You pulled back slightly, just enough to catch your breath and look into his eyes. His gaze was filled with a mix of awe and desire, as if he couldn’t quite believe what was happening, yet he was determined to take the leap.

“I love this side of you,” you whispered, your fingers brushing through his hair as you leaned your forehead against his. “But we don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for.”

As you whispered those reassuring words, you saw the subtle flicker of doubt flash across Spencer’s face. His confidence, which had been so bold a moment ago, seemed to waver. You could practically see the question forming in his mind—Did you not want this? Was he misreading the situation? 

You were quick to close the gap between his fear and your truth. “I want to do everything with you, baby,” you murmured, leaning in to kiss him softly, your lips brushing against his with tender intent. Then, in a playful move, you gently bit down on his bottom lip, just enough to make him whine, a small, needy sound escaping his throat that sent a thrill through you. “I just don’t want to rush anything,” you continued, your voice soothing but firm. “We have all the time in the world.”

You pulled back just enough to look into his eyes, making sure your next words landed where they needed to. “I am not going anywhere, okay? You don’t have to worry about that.”

Spencer’s chest rose and fell with the deep breath he took, his gaze softening as your words sank in. He nodded, his hand still resting possessively on your waist. “I love you,” he whispered, his voice barely more than a breath but carrying the full weight of his emotions.

You smiled at him, a loving, genuine smile that only deepened his feelings. “I love you more,” you whispered back before leaning down to kiss him again.

In that moment, the kiss was everything. Soft, slow, reassuring, full of the love and trust that you’d both built together. But then, as you shifted in his lap, your body moved instinctively—rolling your hips ever so slightly. You hadn’t meant to, but the unmistakable hardness beneath you pressed against your core, causing a delicious friction that neither of you expected.

Spencer whimpered into your mouth, the sound raw and unrestrained, his hips jerking upward involuntarily in response to the sudden, new form of pleasure. The sensation seemed to spark something deep inside him, a rush of need that had been bubbling under the surface for so long. You felt his fingers tighten on your waist, his breath hitching as he chased the friction, his body moving beneath you as if on autopilot.

The way Spencer reacted to the brief touch, the soft sounds of desperation coming from him, sent a thrill through your own body. You could feel the heat rising between you both, the chemistry shifting from sweet to something more electric. Your lips hovered just above his, your breath mingling with his as you caught the look in his eyes—dark, yearning, and yet still so full of love.

You kissed him again, slower this time, savoring every second as your hands cupped his face, your thumbs brushing over his cheekbones. “Spence…” you whispered, his name a quiet plea on your lips, “Does that feel good, baby?”

“Mhm,” he whined softly, eyes closed as he leaned into the feeling, chasing the sensation your touch brought him. His body responded instinctively, moving with you, completely lost in the moment.

You were just about to suggest something more, thinking about shedding some of the clothing between you, when suddenly, Spencer stilled beneath you. His entire body tensed, and before you could ask what was wrong, he let out a long, unexpected moan. You felt it—an undeniable wetness seeping through your tights. 

Spencer’s eyes shot open in mortification, his face flushing crimson as he realized what had just happened. Panic set in immediately, and without a word, he scrambled out from under you, pushing you off gently but urgently as he bolted toward the bathroom. 

You barely had time to process what had happened before he disappeared behind the door. The sound of it closing echoed through the quiet apartment, leaving you sitting there, still feeling the heat of the moment but now overtaken by concern. You stood up, adjusting yourself and taking a deep breath, your mind quickly shifting from your own arousal to Spencer’s sudden distress.

You followed him to the bathroom, heart heavy as you heard him breathing heavily on the other side of the door. Gently, you knocked, your voice soft and filled with care. “Spencer? Honey, are you okay?”

A sniffle came from the other side, a sound that broke your heart. “No,” he whimpered, his voice small, ashamed.

You leaned your forehead against the door, trying to offer him comfort without pushing too hard. “Can I come in?” you asked, your tone gentle and filled with reassurance.

“No,” he answered again, his voice cracking, clearly embarrassed.

You sighed softly, wanting nothing more than to hold him, to make sure he knew there was nothing to be ashamed of. “Why not, baby?” you asked, your voice soft but persistent.

Spencer hesitated, his breath shaky as he tried to find the words. “Because... because I... I... ruined it,” he stammered, his voice thick with tears.

Your heart broke at his words. Ruined it? There was nothing to ruin. You leaned against the door more firmly, wanting him to hear the sincerity in your voice. “Spencer,” you said softly, “you didn’t ruin anything, my love. Please let me in. We can talk about it, okay?”

He sniffled again, his breathing still shaky. You could hear him shifting on the other side, his back still pressed against the door. “I... I couldn’t control it. I didn’t mean to... it’s so embarrassing,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

“Baby, it’s okay,” you reassured him, feeling your own heart ache for him. “It’s normal. It happens. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about, I promise.”

There was a pause, and you could hear him take a deep breath, as if he was trying to gather himself. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, you heard the soft click of the door unlocking.

Slowly, you opened the door and found Spencer standing there, his eyes red-rimmed, his shoulders slumped in defeat. His gaze dropped to the floor, avoiding yours out of sheer mortification. Without thinking, you stepped forward and wrapped your arms around him, pulling him into a comforting embrace.

He hesitated at first, still feeling the weight of his embarrassment, but eventually, his arms came around you, holding on tightly as if you were his lifeline.

“I’m so sorry,” he mumbled into your shoulder, his voice muffled and thick with emotion.

You pulled back just enough to cup his face in your hands, forcing him to look at you. Your eyes were filled with nothing but love and understanding. “Spencer, you don’t have to be sorry,” you said softly. “You didn’t do anything wrong.”

He blinked at you, clearly still struggling to accept that. “But... it was... I didn’t even—”

“Shh,” you soothed him, gently placing a finger against his lips, your voice soft but reassuring. “How about we focus on how that felt, yeah?”

Spencer’s brow furrowed slightly, tilting his head at you, still unsure how to navigate this moment. His embarrassment was still fresh, but your calmness helped ease the tension that had built up inside him.

“Did it feel good, baby?” you asked, your tone gentle and coaxing. “Like something you’d want to try again?”

There was a moment of hesitation before the realization hit Spencer—what you were doing. You weren’t focusing on his embarrassment, his mistake. You were helping him see past it, guiding him back to what mattered: the feeling you had shared, the intimacy of the moment. His heart swelled with gratitude, a soft warmth spreading through his chest.

“Yes,” he said softly, his voice filled with relief and sincerity. “It did.”

You smiled up at him, and that smile was all it took to melt the remaining tension in his body. Leaning in, you kissed him, a slow and tender kiss filled with the reassurance that everything was okay, that he was okay. “I liked it too,” you whispered against his lips. “Maybe we can do that again soon?”

Spencer’s lips quirked into a small smile, more confident this time. “I would like that,” he admitted, his voice steady, a little more sure of himself.

Your heart swarmed with affection as you pulled him close, pressing your cheek against his as he tucked his head into the crook of your neck, his body relaxing into yours. You gently rubbed his back, feeling the tension ease from his muscles as he sighed against your skin.

“Do you want to shower, Spence?” you asked softly, your hand trailing soothing patterns up and down his back.

Spencer nuzzled closer to you, his voice a low mumble into your skin. “Together?”

You smiled, kissing the top of his head. “We can,” you hummed, “but if that’s too much right now, I don’t mind leaving. Whatever you’re comfortable with.”

Spencer shook his head rapidly, pulling you closer. “Don’t want you to go anywhere.”

“Okay, okay,” you soothed, your fingers still brushing lightly across his back. “I won’t leave. We can shower together.”

Spencer sighed happily, his arms tightening around you as if to confirm that you were staying, that you weren’t going anywhere. He pressed a soft kiss to your neck before mumbling, “Just… don’t look at my penis, please?”

You couldn’t help the soft laugh that bubbled up, but you quickly reassured him, kissing his cheek as you whispered, “Of course, my love. My eyes will stay on your face.”

With that promise, Spencer relaxed further into you, his trust in you deepening with every passing second. The shame and embarrassment from earlier slowly dissolved, replaced by the comforting knowledge that you accepted him fully, without judgment. You held him for a moment longer, your arms wrapped securely around him.

The shower was filled with steam and laughter, the sound of water splashing mixing with your playful giggles and Spencer’s rare, carefree chuckles. It was the first time you had shared the shower, a new experience that was turning out to be much more fun than either of you had expected. Usually, one of you would sit outside on the toilet, talking through the curtain while the other showered. But now, the barrier was gone, and the playful side of both of you was in full swing.

You couldn’t resist puffing your cheeks full of water and spitting it in Spencer’s direction, making him laugh out loud as droplets hit his chest. “Hey!” he protested, though his grin betrayed him as he retaliated with a splash of his own, his hands sending a wave of water your way.

You laughed, dodging the water as best as you could, enjoying this lighthearted, silly moment between you two. It was refreshing to see Spencer like this, so relaxed, his usual careful demeanor replaced with playful mischief.

But there was something else too. Spencer tried his hardest to keep his eyes on your face—his eyes darting up quickly whenever they drifted a little lower. You couldn’t help but giggle each time he looked away, a blush creeping up his neck, his face flushed for reasons beyond just the heat of the shower.

After the fourth or fifth time of catching him sneaking a glance only to immediately avert his eyes, you decided to call him out on it. “Spencer,” you giggled, crossing your arms over your chest playfully. “I am your girlfriend, you know?”

Spencer looked back at you, his brow furrowing in that adorable, confused way he did when he was trying to figure something out. “I know that, why are you asking?” he asked, his head tilting slightly, genuinely perplexed.

You couldn’t hold back your laughter at his expression, shaking your head in amusement. “Because, you big dork,” you cackled, “you’re allowed to look at my boobs! You can even touch them if you want!”

Spencer’s eyes widened, his blush deepening as he processed your words. “I—well, I just didn’t want to... I mean...” He stammered, looking flustered but also a little curious, his gaze flickering down before darting back up to your eyes. “I didn’t want to seem disrespectful.”

You burst out laughing, stepping closer to him, your hands resting lightly on his chest as you stood on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek. “Spence,” you said between your giggles, “you could never be disrespectful. Trust me.”

He blinked, still looking a little unsure but also charmed by your playfulness. “I... I guess that makes sense,” he murmured, his lips curving into a shy smile.

You rolled your eyes affectionately, moving his hands from your waist to your chest with a smirk. “Here, I’ll even help you.”

Spencer’s face turned crimson as he felt the softness beneath his hands, his fingers lightly tracing over your skin as if he were still processing what was happening. His touch was tentative, delicate, like he wasn’t sure if he was doing it right.

You smiled, leaning in to kiss his nose. “See? Not so scary, right?”

He swallowed, finally letting himself relax a little, his thumb brushing softly over your skin. “Not scary,” he echoed softly, his eyes filled with a mix of wonder and affection. Then, as if realizing the silliness of it all, he let out a small laugh, shaking his head at himself.

You both stood there in the warmth of the shower, your bodies close, the steam curling around you as Spencer finally allowed himself to look, to touch, to enjoy this new level of intimacy with you. It was another step in your relationship, one that made both of you feel more connected, more comfortable with each other.

But as always, you couldn’t resist keeping the moment light. With a mischievous grin, you puffed your cheeks full of water again and spat it playfully in Spencer’s direction, causing him to sputter in surprise and laugh as he wiped his face.

“Hey!” he laughed, shaking his head as water dripped from his hair. “You’re gonna pay for that!”

“Oh yeah?” you teased, backing up against the wall of the shower with a grin. “What are you gonna do about it, Dr. Reid?”

Spencer’s eyes sparkled with mischief as he stepped closer, the playful dynamic back in full swing, earlier embarrassment long forgotten. It was just the two of you now, laughing, teasing, and enjoying each other in the most carefree way. And that, in the end, was what made this moment perfect.

—

As the weeks rolled on, Spencer found himself spending more and more time at your nightclub. It had become a routine for him during his free weekends, a way to be closer to you. On the busier nights, he would sit at the bar, watching you work, admiring the way you effortlessly ran the place. And on weeknights, when you invited the bartenders in during closed hours to practice making new drinks, Spencer would linger in the background, quietly observing.

But each time he visited, something gnawed at him. It wasn’t just the crowd, the music, or the dim lighting of the club—it was Sean. At first, Spencer tried to brush it off. He chalked it up to Sean’s naturally charming personality, how bartenders often carried themselves with confidence, flirting with customers as part of the job. But now, Spencer couldn’t help but feel like there was something more.

Sean’s eyes seemed to linger on you longer than they should, or at least that’s how it appeared to Spencer. Over the past few weeks, with Spencer spending more time at the club, he became convinced that Sean had started flirting with you. His words seemed just a bit too smooth, his smiles lingered a little too long. Spencer couldn’t ignore the casual way Sean would lean in when he spoke to you or how he seemed overly attentive whenever you checked in at the bar.

What Spencer didn’t know, however, was that Sean had recently confided in you about his lack of attraction to women. While he wasn’t out of the closet yet, he wanted to make sure his playful, flirtatious behavior was never misunderstood. It was all in good fun, a way to keep the atmosphere light and easy at work, and he trusted you enough to share his truth, knowing it wouldn’t affect your friendship or professional relationship.

One night, after a long day, you and Spencer were curled up on the couch, your legs draped over his lap as the two of you settled into your usual post-work relaxation. You were absentmindedly playing with Spencer’s hand while a TV show played in the background, the glow of the screen filling the cozy living room. But Spencer’s mind wasn’t on the show. His thoughts were elsewhere—back at the club, and back on Sean.

“Hey…” Spencer began, his voice hesitant as his fingers traced small circles on your knee.

You looked over at him, smiling softly. “Yeah, babe?”

He chewed on his bottom lip, trying to find the right words. He didn’t want to sound paranoid, but the thought had been eating away at him for days now. “I think… I think Sean’s been flirting with you.”

You blinked, taken aback by his statement. “What? Sean?” The idea made you laugh—not to be dismissive of Spencer’s feelings, but the thought of Sean flirting with you, his boss, was almost comical. “Spence, no way.”

He frowned slightly, feeling a bit vulnerable after putting it out there. “I’m serious. He looks at you… and I’ve heard him make little comments. I don’t know, it just feels like he’s always trying to get your attention in a certain way.”

You laughed again, shaking your head, though your tone was softer this time, recognizing the seriousness in his voice. “Baby, bartenders flirt. It’s literally part of the job. They flirt with everyone—it doesn’t mean anything.”

Spencer’s shoulders slumped slightly. He knew you didn’t mean to dismiss his concern, but it stung a little. “Yeah, I know, but… it’s different with him. I see the way he acts around you. It’s not the same as with other people.”

You shifted, sitting up a bit to face him, brushing a hand through his hair. “Spencer, I promise you, Sean’s just doing his job. If he’s flirting, he’s doing it with every customer that walks through the door.” You smiled warmly, leaning in to kiss him softly. “And even if he was flirting with me, it wouldn’t matter. You’re the only one I have eyes for.”

Your words were meant to reassure him, but Spencer still felt that unease. He didn’t doubt your loyalty or love for him, but there was something about Sean that bothered him. He could sense it—the subtle charm, the lingering glances that made his stomach twist with jealousy. But he didn’t want to seem overly paranoid or insecure, especially not after you had laughed off the idea. So, instead of pushing it further, Spencer just nodded, giving you a weak smile in return.

“Yeah… you’re probably right,” he murmured, though the knot in his chest hadn’t untangled.

You kissed him again, resting your head on his shoulder. “Of course I’m right. You’ve got nothing to worry about.”

But even as you both settled back into your cozy position, Spencer couldn’t shake the nagging feeling. He didn’t want to keep bringing it up, didn’t want to seem annoyingly jealous or insecure, so he kept it bottled up after that night, silently watching from the sidelines each time he visited the club. But each time Sean’s eyes lingered too long on you, or every time Spencer caught the slight inflection in Sean’s voice when he spoke to you, the feeling festered inside him, unresolved.

—

Spencer hadn't realized just how much his pent-up frustration was affecting him—at least, not until the team started to notice. What began as subtle shifts in his demeanor during interrogations had gradually turned into something much more obvious. Spencer had always been the calm, logical one. The genius with a kind heart, who often sought to understand unsubs and their motivations. But recently, something had changed.

During takedowns, Spencer's grip on suspects was firmer, his actions more aggressive than they needed to be. When it came to interviews and interrogations, he was no longer the patient profiler with a steady voice. His words were sharp, cold, and sometimes downright cutting. He'd lean in too close, his eyes dark with intensity, and his voice would drop to a low, threatening tone that made even the most hardened criminals flinch. He became a version of himself that no one on the team recognized.

It all came to a head when they brought in a person of interest—someone who wasn’t even officially connected to the crime yet, just a potential witness. The woman had been nervous enough as it was, but the moment Spencer stepped into the interrogation room, his usual warmth and understanding were gone. Instead, he stared her down, his eyes hard, his tone biting as he drilled her with questions. The more she stammered, the harsher he became, until finally, the woman broke down in tears, sobbing uncontrollably.

Hotch had seen enough. The moment Spencer walked out of the interrogation room, his jaw tight and his hands clenched at his sides, Hotch made the decision to pull him aside.

“Reid, conference room. Now.”

Spencer barely glanced up, his frustration still evident, but he followed Hotch without a word. The rest of the team exchanged uneasy glances as they watched him disappear into the room, the door closing firmly behind them.

Hotch turned to face Spencer, his arms crossed, his face unreadable. "What the hell is going on with you, Reid?" His voice was stern but not unkind, giving Spencer the chance to explain himself.

Spencer, still bristling with residual anger, shifted uncomfortably. “What do you mean?” He knew exactly what Hotch meant, but he wasn’t ready to admit it yet.

“You made a person of interest cry, Spencer,” Hotch said, his eyes narrowing slightly. “That woman was barely connected to the case, and you broke her down like she was the unsub. This isn’t like you.”

Spencer crossed his arms, suddenly feeling defensive. “She wasn’t cooperating. I was just trying to get the truth out of her.”

“There are ways to get the truth out of people that don’t involve scaring them,” Hotch countered. “You’ve always known that. But this—this isn’t the Reid we all know. What’s going on?”

Spencer clenched his jaw, his eyes dropping to the floor. For a moment, he considered brushing it off, making some excuse about the stress of the job, but he knew Hotch wouldn’t buy it. The truth of it was, Spencer didn’t even fully understand what had been driving him lately. All he knew was that something inside him had shifted, a growing aggression that he couldn’t quite shake.

“It’s… it’s nothing,” Spencer muttered, though he knew how weak the excuse sounded.

“Reid, you and I both know that’s not true,” Hotch said, his voice firm but not unkind. “You’ve been on edge for weeks. I’ve noticed it, and so has the rest of the team. Whatever’s going on with you, you need to talk about it. Before it gets worse.”

Spencer exhaled sharply, rubbing the back of his neck. His mind raced, filled with thoughts of the one thing that had been eating away at him for weeks: Sean and the club. The jealousy, the fear, the constant feeling that he wasn’t enough. He had tried to keep it bottled up, had tried to pretend that everything was fine, but clearly, it wasn’t. And now, it was affecting his work—affecting who he was.

“I…” Spencer’s voice faltered, his throat tightening as he realized how ridiculous it might sound to Hotch. But there was no point in hiding it anymore. “It’s personal.”

Hotch raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further, his gaze steady as he waited for Spencer to continue. The silence stretched between them, a gentle but firm reminder that Hotch was giving Spencer space to be honest.

Spencer shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of the conversation hanging over him. He knew what Hotch was expecting, what he should say, but the truth was harder to face than he anticipated.

“I’ll talk to someone,” Spencer finally said with a sigh, running a hand through his hair in a tired gesture. His voice was laced with reluctance, but there was a genuine attempt to reassure his boss. “I promise.”

Hotch studied him for a moment longer, the skepticism clear in his eyes, though he didn’t vocalize it. He knew Spencer well enough to recognize when he was pushing something down, burying it beneath layers of self-control and avoidance. And as much as Hotch wanted to push further, he also knew that Spencer was an adult—one who had to take ownership of his own emotions.

“Alright,” Hotch finally said, his tone even. “I’m trusting you to handle this, Spencer. Don’t let it get worse.”

Spencer nodded, though a small part of him wasn’t sure if he’d follow through. But the weight of Hotch’s gaze made it clear that this conversation wouldn’t be forgotten easily.

Hotch gave a final nod, his demeanor softening just slightly as he spoke. “Take care of yourself, Reid.”

Spencer forced a smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I will,” he said, though the truth of the promise felt heavy.

With that, the conversation ended, and Spencer made his way out of Hotch’s office, feeling the quiet pressure of everything that had built up inside him over the past few weeks. He knew he had to do something about it—he had to talk to you, or someone, before this spiral led him further down a path he didn’t want to follow.

For now, though, he’d keep the promise to himself, hoping that he’d find the strength to follow through.

—

Spencer had barely set foot through the door before you were there to greet him, your usual warmth and love surrounding him as you kissed him softly, welcoming him home. But instead of the usual sense of relief he felt in your embrace, something inside him snapped. The frustration from the case, from everything that had been building inside him, surged to the surface.

Without thinking, Spencer grabbed your face, pulling you into a deep, urgent kiss. It wasn’t the kind of kiss you were used to from him—it was rough, almost desperate. He devoured your mouth like he was trying to lose himself in you, his hands gripping you tighter than usual. You assumed it was just the result of a tough case, and maybe he just missed you. But something about the intensity of it was off.

As Spencer’s hands tugged at the hem of your shirt, right there in the walkway by the front door, you tried to pull back slightly to ask him if everything was okay. But he didn’t seem to notice—or maybe he just didn’t care—because he kept tugging, his fingers working to get your shirt over your head.

You let him pull it off, still unsure of what was going on but trusting that Spencer wouldn’t act like this without reason. Maybe he just needed you, needed to feel close to you. But when he backed you towards the bedroom with that same roughness, something in the pit of your stomach twisted with unease.

Then, when he pushed you onto the bed—aggressively, without the usual care he always showed—alarm bells started ringing in your head.

"Spencer!" you called out, your voice louder than intended, hoping it would snap him out of whatever was happening.

But Spencer didn’t stop. If he noticed your tone, he either misread it or ignored it, because he crawled over you, his hands fumbling with your pants now, too focused on what he was doing to realize you were uncomfortable.

Panic set in then. This wasn’t your Spencer. He had never acted like this before. You pushed at his hands, your heart racing as you called out again, louder this time.

“Spencer, stop!” you shouted, finally shoving his hands away from your waist.

Spencer froze, his body going rigid above you as your words seemed to cut through the fog of whatever had taken over him. His eyes widened slightly, and you could see the mix of confusion and shame washing over his face as he registered what you had said.

“What’s gotten into you?” you asked, your voice breathless but firm, your hands still on his chest to keep some distance between you.

For a moment, Spencer didn’t say anything. He looked away, the sting of rejection clear in the way his shoulders slumped and his hands fell limply to his sides. “Nothing,” he muttered, his voice quiet and defensive.

You sat up, pulling your shirt back on, your concern growing with every second that passed. “It’s obviously something, Spence. You’ve never acted like this before.”

Spencer kept his eyes down, not meeting your gaze. “I just… I just missed you,” he mumbled, though you could tell there was more to it than that. The way he was avoiding your eyes, the tension in his body—it all told you that this wasn’t just about missing you.

You reached for his hand, gently pulling him to sit down on the bed beside you. “I know you missed me,” you said softly, trying to keep your tone calm and reassuring. “But this isn’t like you. Please, talk to me.”

Spencer’s jaw tightened, and for a moment, you thought he might stay silent. But then, he let out a heavy sigh, rubbing a hand over his face as if he was trying to push away whatever emotions were swirling inside him.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” he admitted quietly, his voice thick with frustration. “I’ve just… I’ve been feeling so off lately. Angry. Insecure. And I keep telling myself not to, but… I can’t stop thinking about Sean, and how he looks at you, and how much better he is at everything, and—” He stopped abruptly, his hands clenching into fists in his lap as he tried to control the storm of emotions building inside him.

You blinked, finally starting to piece together the reason behind his behavior. “Spence, this is about Sean?”

Spencer’s shoulders sagged, his silence confirming your suspicions. He finally looked up at you, and in his eyes, you saw all the fear, jealousy, and insecurity he had been trying to hide for weeks.

“I know it’s stupid,” he said, his voice barely more than a whisper. “I know you love me, and I know he’s just a bartender at your club, but… I can’t stop feeling like I’m not enough. Like you’ll realize you could have someone… better.”

Your heart broke at his words. You cupped his face gently, forcing him to meet your gaze. “Spencer,” you said softly, your thumb brushing over his cheek. “You are more than enough. I love you. There is no one better for me. Sean is just a coworker. You’re the man I want, please believe me.”

Spencer sat back on his heels, looking down at his hands, feeling the weight of his own frustration and shame. He had never wanted to make you uncomfortable, never wanted to act like this, but the jealousy that had been building inside him finally broke through. Now, here he was, on the edge of ruining something so precious to him.

“I know,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. “I know we talked about it, and I know you don’t see Sean that way. It’s just… it’s so hard, watching him flirt with you every day. And you don’t stop him. It feels like… like I’m not enough.”

You sat up, still catching your breath from the intensity of the moment, but your heart ached hearing his words. You hadn’t realized how deep his insecurities ran. The playful flirting from Sean, which you had brushed off as part of the job, had been festering inside Spencer for weeks, and you hadn’t seen it.

“Spencer, baby,” you started, your voice gentle but firm as you reached for his hand. “You are enough. More than enough. I don’t let him flirt with me because I want him to, or because I’m interested. It’s his job to be friendly, charming even, but that’s all it is. I don’t see Sean the way I see you. I only have eyes for you.”

Spencer looked up at you, his eyes filled with vulnerability. “But what if one day… what if one day you change your mind?” he asked softly, the fear evident in his voice. “What if one day, you find someone who’s more… experienced, more everything?”

You cupped his face, forcing him to meet your gaze. “That’s not going to happen, Spencer,” you said firmly. “I love you. Not because of experience, or because of anything physical, but because of who you are. You’re kind, brilliant, thoughtful, and you make me happier than I’ve ever been. No one else even comes close.”

Spencer swallowed, the lump in his throat making it hard to speak. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t mean to… to act like that. I just—I didn’t know how to handle it.”

You stroked his cheek, offering him a small, understanding smile. “It’s okay,” you reassured him. “But we need to talk about these things, okay? If you’re feeling like this, I want to know. I don’t want you to keep it bottled up until it explodes like this.”

Spencer nodded, his head dipping down as he let out a shaky breath. “I know. I just… I didn’t want to seem weak.”

“You’re not weak, Spencer,” you said softly, leaning in to press a tender kiss to his forehead. “Being vulnerable doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human. And I’m here for you, no matter what. We’ll get through this together.”

He let out a long sigh, his body finally relaxing as the tension drained out of him. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close as if he were afraid to let go.

“I love you,” he whispered, his voice muffled against your skin.

“I love you too, Spencer,” you whispered back, holding him just as tightly. "Always."

Later that evening, after Spencer had unpacked his things and taken a long, soothing bath, the two of you settled onto the couch with a bowl of popcorn and a movie playing softly in the background. The warm, familiar glow of your living room felt comforting, but you couldn’t help but notice how hesitant Spencer was. He sat beside you, his body tense, his hands resting awkwardly in his lap, as though he was afraid to touch you. 

It broke your heart to see him like this, to see him so uncertain. You knew he still felt guilty about what had happened earlier, worried that he had somehow ruined everything.

“Honey,” you said softly, your voice cutting through the quiet. “You can still hold me, you know… or if you’d rather, do you want me to hold you?”

Spencer looked up at you, his eyes filled with a mixture of relief and hesitation. But then, slowly, he nodded, his expression softening as he shifted on the couch. He leaned over, laying his head gently in your lap, and you couldn’t help but smile at how vulnerable and sweet he looked in that moment.

As soon as his head was settled, you instinctively began playing with his hair, your fingers threading through the soft strands as you stroked him gently. You felt him relax under your touch, his body finally easing into the comfort of your presence.

“Spencer,” you began, your voice soothing as you continued to run your fingers through his hair. “Earlier, I was worried because we haven’t gone that far before. That doesn’t mean I never want you to touch me again. Okay? I just want us to be on the same page, to make sure we’re both ready.”

He nodded again, his face nestled against your thigh as he let out a soft sigh. “I get it,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “I didn’t mean to push you or anything. I just… I didn’t know how to handle everything I was feeling.”

You leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to the top of his head. “I know, baby. And we’ll figure it out together, at our own pace. There’s no rush.”

Spencer shifted slightly, looking up at you with soft, grateful eyes. “Thank you,” he murmured, his voice filled with emotion. “For being so understanding.”

You smiled warmly, leaning down to kiss his forehead once more. “I’ll always understand, Spence. You never have to be afraid of that.”

As you continued to play with his hair, Spencer closed his eyes, letting the comfort of the moment wash over him. You could feel the tension in his body melt away, and soon enough, he was relaxed and peaceful, knowing that everything between you two was going to be okay.

And for the first time in what felt like weeks, Spencer felt like he could truly breathe again.

—

You had taken a Friday night off to be with Spencer, trusting your number two to keep things running smoothly. Spencer had taken you to dinner, wined and dined you before bringing you home and kissing you sweetly. Now the room was dimly lit, the soft glow of the bedside lamp casting a warm, intimate atmosphere around you both. You had been kissing for what felt like hours, tender and slow, taking your time with each other. Spencer’s hands had wandered, tentative at first, but growing more confident as the moments passed. You had already reassured him a dozen times over that you were ready, that this was something you wanted to share with him.

And now, the moment was here. You laid in front of him, completely bare, your skin bathed in the soft light. Spencer’s eyes roamed over your body, wide and filled with awe. His breath hitched in his throat, his hands shaking slightly as they reached out to touch you. He was gentle, reverent, as though he were afraid of hurting you by merely looking.

“You’re so beautiful,” he whispered, his voice barely audible as his fingertips ghosted over your skin. He took his time, memorizing every curve, every line, as if he wanted to commit every inch of you to memory.

You smiled softly, your heart swelling with affection as you leaned down to kiss him. “Thank you, baby.”

Spencer swallowed hard, still staring in awe. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” he admitted, his voice trembling slightly. “You’re perfect.”

You laughed softly, your heart swelling with warmth. "I’m not perfect, Spence."

He looked at you with nothing but sincerity in his eyes. "You are to me," he said, his voice full of honesty and affection.

With only mild hesitation, Spencer leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to your collarbone, his lips trailing slowly down to your breasts. He explored every inch of you with care, his lips brushing your skin tenderly. You couldn't help but let out soft whines of pleasure, and Spencer, trying to learn what you like, paid extra attention when your sounds grew louder, lingering in the spots that made your breath hitch.

As your hands instinctively found their way into his hair, gripping softly, Spencer's teeth accidentally grazed your nipple when his lips suctioned to your breast. The unexpected sensation caused you to arch your back and moan loudly, the sound filling the quiet room.

Spencer immediately pulled back, his face filled with concern, eyes wide in alarm. "Are you okay? Did I hurt you?" His voice was thick with worry, afraid he had crossed a line.

You shook your head quickly, reassuring him as your hands stroked his hair gently. "No, no, baby, I liked it," you whispered, your breath still shaky from the pleasure. "It's okay. It felt good."

Relief washed over Spencer’s face, his lips curling into a small, nervous smile as he realized he hadn’t hurt you. He leaned back in, pressing a soft kiss to your lips, and this time, he allowed himself to explore you with even more confidence, knowing that you were both in this together.

Spencer froze for a moment, his eyes wide with concern, his breath shaky as he pulled back just enough to search your face. His brow furrowed, worry evident in every inch of his expression. “Are you sure?” he asked softly, his voice laced with uncertainty. His hands hovered over your body, not daring to touch you until he knew for certain that you were alright. 

You smiled up at him, your heart swelling with affection at just how much he cared. Reaching up, you gently brushed a hand through his hair, guiding him back toward you. “I’m sure, Spence. I liked it, I promise,” you whispered reassuringly. “You didn’t hurt me. In fact, I liked it a lot.”

Spencer’s eyes searched yours, still looking for any signs of discomfort, but all he found was warmth and trust. Slowly, his shoulders relaxed, the tension in his body easing as he took a deep breath.

“I’m sorry,” he said quietly, though his face softened with a hint of relief. “I didn’t mean to—”

You cut him off with a soft kiss, pulling him closer, your hands threading through his hair again, this time more gently. “You don’t have to apologize,” you murmured against his lips. “I love everything you do, Spencer. Just… trust me, okay? Trust that I’ll tell you if something is wrong.”

He nodded, still looking a little unsure but reassured by the sincerity in your voice. His eyes softened as he leaned back down, pressing a tender kiss to your lips before trailing them once more along your collarbone, and then lower, toward your chest. This time, there was a careful gentleness in his touch, though the intensity hadn’t faded.

You arched your back again, your body responding to his kisses, to the way his lips brushed against your skin with both tenderness and a growing confidence. As he felt you grip his hair again, Spencer’s lips paused just for a moment, as if waiting for any sign that you weren’t comfortable. But when your soft moans filled the room, he took that as all the permission he needed to continue.

His lips pressed harder, his hands exploring your body with more intent, and this time, when his teeth grazed your skin, he did it purposefully, testing the boundaries of your pleasure.

And when you moaned again, louder this time, Spencer felt a surge of something—both pride and desire—swell inside him. He kissed you again, his lips and teeth finding the spots that made your breath hitch, his hands moving with a confidence that he hadn’t known he possessed until now.

In that moment, you both shared something deeper, a connection that wasn’t just about trust but about exploring each other fully, knowing that in this space, in this moment, there was nothing but love, vulnerability, and acceptance.

—

The bookstore was a haven of calm, a peaceful retreat from the world. The scent of old paper, leather-bound books, and the soft rustle of pages being turned created an atmosphere of quiet serenity. It was the perfect place for you and Spencer to spend the afternoon. 

From the moment you walked in, hand in hand, you could see how at home Spencer felt here. His eyes lit up with excitement as he scanned the shelves, fingers trailing over spines as if each book held a personal story he was waiting to uncover. You loved watching him like this—so in his element, so absorbed in his passion for knowledge and discovery.

But, of course, the playful side of you couldn’t resist adding a bit of mischief to the day. As Spencer dove headfirst into the non-fiction section, his attention already lost in the spines of ancient history volumes, you snuck off into a different aisle, peeking around the corner like a spy on a secret mission. You had been teasing him since you arrived—jumping out at him from behind shelves, sneaking little pokes and playful scares.

You watched from your hiding spot, stifling a giggle as Spencer carefully examined a thick book, oblivious to your plan. His brow furrowed in concentration, a small smile playing on his lips as he skimmed the pages. You took the opportunity to tiptoe closer, hiding behind a row of shelves, waiting for the perfect moment.

Finally, when Spencer rounded the corner, deep in thought about which book to buy next, you jumped out, arms raised in mock menace. “Gotcha!” you shouted with glee.

Spencer yelped, his eyes going wide in surprise as he stumbled back a step. For a split second, his brain went into overdrive, trying to process the sudden "threat." But then, his startled expression melted into laughter. “You’re ridiculous!” he chuckled, shaking his head at you, a fond smile tugging at his lips.

You couldn’t help but laugh along with him, your giggles filling the quiet space between the rows of books. You wrapped your arms around his waist, pulling him into a tight hug, your face pressing against his chest as you felt his warmth seep into you. 

“Maybe,” you said with a grin, looking up at him, “but you love it.”

Spencer’s smile softened, his arms coming around you as he held you close. He leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to your forehead, his breath warm against your skin. “I do,” he murmured, his voice gentle, full of affection. “I really do.”

You both stood there for a moment, wrapped in each other, the world fading away as the quiet of the bookstore enveloped you. Spencer's hand moved up to your back, rubbing slow circles as you soaked in the comfort of the moment. There was something magical about being here together, surrounded by the books he loved and the peaceful intimacy of just being with each other.

After a few moments, you pulled back slightly, your playful grin returning. “Alright, Dr. Reid,” you teased, “what book are we getting?”

Spencer's eyes lit up again, and he immediately turned his attention back to the stack of books he had been eyeing. "Well," he began, his voice taking on that enthusiastic tone you loved so much, "I’ve been looking at this one on the history of cryptography. It has some fascinating insights into early codebreaking techniques used in ancient times, and—" He caught himself, his eyes flickering to yours as he smiled sheepishly. “But I’m not sure you want to hear me ramble about that.”

You shook your head, stepping closer to him and placing your hand on his arm. “I always want to hear you ramble, Spence,” you said sincerely. “Tell me all about it.”

His eyes softened, and for the next few minutes, he explained the intricacies of the book, his voice animated and full of passion. You listened intently, loving every second of seeing him so in his element.

After Spencer finished his enthusiastic information dump, the way his eyes lit up while talking about cryptography and ancient codebreaking made your heart swell. You couldn't resist the urge any longer. Without saying a word, you leaned in and kissed him, your lips pressing softly against his, filled with all the affection you felt in that moment.

Spencer blinked in surprise, a grin slowly spreading across his face as you pulled back. “What was that for?” he asked, his tone playful, though his cheeks flushed pink from the unexpected kiss.

You shook your head, smiling warmly as you looked into his eyes. “I just love you so much,” you said softly, feeling your chest fill with warmth at how easy it was to be with him, how completely in love with him you were in moments like this.

His grin softened into something more tender, and his hand found yours on the table, squeezing it gently. “I love you too,” he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity and that same vulnerability that always made your heart flutter.

—

The next time you found yourselves in an intimate position, the energy was different. The tables had turned, and now it was Spencer’s turn to be vulnerable, to bare himself completely to you. As you stood together in the hallway, you could feel the shift in the air, the weight of the moment pressing softly between you two. 

“Spence, are you sure?” you asked gently, guiding him by the hands into the bedroom, your fingers brushing lightly over his knuckles. “There’s no rush, baby. We can take our time.”

Spencer paused, meeting your gaze with a nervous but determined smile. His heart was pounding, but he trusted you—more than anything. “Yeah,” he said, giving you a small nod. His voice trembled slightly with nerves, but his eyes were soft with affection. “You showed me yours, I’ll show you mine, right?” He laughed, albeit a bit awkwardly, trying to lighten the tension.

You smiled back, your heart swelling with love for him. “Exactly,” you said softly. “But only if you’re ready.”

He nodded again, more confidently this time. “I’m ready.”

Once inside the bedroom, the atmosphere felt warmer, more intimate. The soft glow of the bedside lamp illuminated the space, and as you stood in front of Spencer, you gently reached for the buttons on his shirt. His breathing was shallow, his chest rising and falling quickly as you carefully unbuttoned the fabric, your fingers brushing over his skin as you went. 

With each button undone, you let your hands glide over his bare chest, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath your fingertips. You couldn’t resist the urge to lightly trace the curve of his sides, your touch featherlight as you tickled him just enough to make him giggle.

Spencer’s reaction was instant—his eyes squeezed shut as a small, surprised laugh escaped him, his hands quickly grabbing yours to still them. “Behave,” he playfully warned, his face flushed but full of affection.

You laughed softly, loving the way his guard was down, how he trusted you so completely in this moment. “Sorry,” you teased, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on his collarbone, your lips brushing against the smooth skin. “I couldn’t resist.”

He let out a soft hum, his fingers still holding yours but more gently now, as if to anchor himself. He was nervous, you could tell, but he was also present, allowing himself to be open with you in a way that made your heart swell.

As you helped him slip off his shirt completely, you took a step back, your eyes scanning his body with nothing but admiration. Spencer’s vulnerability in this moment only made you love him more. You could see the uncertainty in his eyes, but he was doing this for you, for both of you, and that meant the world.

“You’re beautiful,” you whispered, your voice sincere as you reached up to cup his face, your thumb brushing lightly over his cheek. “You don’t have to be nervous with me, Spence. I love all of you.”

Spencer’s eyes softened, the tension in his body easing slightly as your words settled over him. He leaned into your touch, his hands resting gently on your waist as he let out a small, relieved breath. “I know,” he whispered, his voice full of gratitude and affection. “And I love you, too.”

Spencer took a deep breath as you carefully removed the last of his clothing, leaving him completely bare before you. The tension in the room was palpable, but you couldn't resist easing it with a light-hearted joke. “Can I look this time?” you asked with a teasing grin.

Spencer laughed, the sound nervous but genuine, and it was enough to break the heavy silence hanging over you both. “Yes,” he replied, his voice still a bit shaky. “You can look.”

So look you did, your eyes trailing down his body with genuine admiration. And when your gaze settled, you couldn’t help but let out a playful gasp, your tone incredulous. “You’ve been hiding this from me? Are you kidding, Spencer?”

His eyes widened, panic flashing across his face for a brief second. “What? Is it… is it bad?” His voice trembled, the insecurities he’d tried so hard to suppress bubbling up to the surface again.

You immediately shook your head, moving closer to him, gently pushing him to lie back on the bed as you sat beside him. “No, baby, it’s not bad,” you reassured him softly. Your hand reached out, wrapping around him gently, and Spencer’s body tensed at the sensation. “It’s really not bad.”

“Ah—fuck, Y/N,” Spencer groaned, his eyes squeezing shut as his hips instinctively bucked upward. It was the first time he had ever felt someone else touch him like this, and the overwhelming sensation sent shivers through his entire body. His breath hitched, and his hands fisted in the sheets, the intensity of the moment almost too much for him.

You couldn’t help but smile at his reaction, your thumb gently brushing over his tip as you whispered, “You are so pretty, baby.”

Spencer’s heart pounded in his chest, his face flushing as he absorbed your words. The mix of vulnerability and pleasure left him almost speechless, his mind reeling as you continued to touch him, each movement slow and careful. He had never felt anything like this before, and the way you handled him with such care only made him fall even more in love with you.

As your hand moved with gentle strokes, you leaned down to press a soft kiss to his lips, whispering between kisses, “I’m so lucky to have you.” 

Spencer’s groans turned softer, his body melting into the bed beneath you as he let go of his fear, letting himself trust in you completely. “I love you,” he murmured breathlessly, his voice laced with both awe and gratitude.

“And I love you,” you whispered back, knowing that this was more than just a physical connection—it was a moment of deep trust and love between you both.

You took your other hand, softly stroking Spencer's thighs, your fingers trailing gently over his strong, lean muscles. His body, always so unassuming beneath his clothes, was more beautiful than you ever could have imagined. The way his thighs tensed under your touch made your mouth water, a thrill running through you as you explored this new side of him.

“Your body is so beautiful, Spencer,” you murmured, your voice tender and full of affection. “I hope you never hide it from me again.”

Spencer’s breath hitched at your words, his face flushed as his eyes fluttered open to meet yours. There was a vulnerability in his gaze, but also a growing confidence, fueled by the love and desire you showered him with. “I-I didn’t know,” he whispered, his voice shaking slightly, “that you’d think that.”

You smiled, leaning down to kiss the top of his thigh, feeling his body tense beneath your lips. “Well, I do. And I always will.”

Spencer swallowed hard, his hand reaching out to grip your arm, needing something to ground himself as the intensity of your touch overwhelmed him. “You’re… amazing,” he breathed, his chest rising and falling rapidly as you continued to caress him.

You smiled against his skin, feeling a surge of warmth at his words. “I’m just showing you what you deserve, Spence.”

Spencer opened his mouth to respond, but the words caught in his throat as your hand shifted from his thigh to gently cup his balls, rolling them softly between your fingers. His breath stuttered, and his body instinctively arched off the bed, overwhelmed by the sudden surge of pleasure. His hands gripped the sheets tightly, knuckles white as he fought to hold on for just a moment longer, but it was no use. His back arched further, his hips jerking as he reached his peak, a loud, unrestrained moan escaping his lips as he came.

“There you go, baby,” you whispered softly, your voice soothing, filled with nothing but love and reassurance. “Let it go.”

Spencer let out a shaky breath, his body trembling as the waves of pleasure washed over him. He felt vulnerable, exposed, but not in the way that used to scare him. This time, it was different. This time, he felt safe with you, completely open and raw, knowing you wouldn’t judge him.

He tried not to feel embarrassed as the aftershocks pulsed through him, knowing full well he didn’t last long—especially not when it was you touching him like this. But there was something comforting in the way you held him, in the way your hands never faltered, even in moments like this. You didn’t mind.

And that reassurance made all the difference.

As he slowly came down from his high, Spencer let out a long, deep sigh, his body sinking into the bed beneath him. He blinked up at you, his cheeks still flushed, his breath still uneven. “I… I’m sorry I didn’t last long again,” he whispered, his voice barely audible, but there was less hesitation this time.

You smiled gently, brushing a hand through his messy hair and leaning down to kiss his forehead. “There’s nothing to be sorry for, Spence,” you said softly, your tone full of affection. “You know I don’t mind. I love you exactly the way you are.”

Spencer’s heart swelled at your words, the lingering tension in his body slowly dissipating. He gave you a small, shy smile, his hand finding yours and squeezing it lightly. “I love you too,” he whispered, his voice full of sincerity.

You lay beside him, pulling him into your arms as his body finally relaxed, his breathing evening out. You continued to stroke his hair, the gentle rhythm calming him as you whispered sweet reassurances. And in that moment, Spencer realized just how lucky he was—to have you, to feel this safe, and to be loved in a way he had never known before.

—

It was the kind of lazy Sunday morning that begged you to stay in bed, curled up in soft blankets with no obligations pulling you away. The sun streamed lazily through the blinds, casting golden streaks across the room, but the promise of fresh pastries and coffee was too tempting to ignore. The two of you reluctantly peeled yourselves from the comfort of the bed, Spencer stretching languidly while you threw on something cozy for your impromptu breakfast outing.

The local bakery was a short walk away, and as you strolled hand-in-hand, the air crisp with a touch of autumn, you could smell the fresh bread and sweet confections wafting through the air long before you even arrived. The warm scent wrapped around you like a comforting hug, and Spencer squeezed your hand gently, smiling down at you as the two of you walked in step, enjoying the quiet simplicity of the moment.

Once you stepped inside, the small bakery was bustling, the display case filled with perfectly baked croissants, éclairs, and muffins, each one more enticing than the last. You and Spencer made your way to the counter, excitedly picking out a selection of pastries along with two steaming cups of coffee.

After grabbing your tray of treats, you found a little table tucked in the corner by the window, where the morning light spilled across the tabletop, catching the powdered sugar that had already dusted the surface. You sat down, feeling a sense of contentment wash over you as the two of you settled into your seats, a quiet bubble of comfort surrounding you amidst the hum of the bakery.

The moment felt perfect, simple in its beauty, as you and Spencer started tearing into the pastries, the flaky layers scattering crumbs across the table. You picked up a piece of your croissant, the sweet filling spilling out, and with a playful grin, you held it up to Spencer’s lips. 

“Here, try this,” you said, your eyes twinkling with amusement as you offered him the bite.

Spencer leaned forward, always eager to try something you loved, but as he took a bite, he purposefully let some of the creamy filling smear across his lips. You couldn’t help but burst into laughter, shaking your head as you leaned over the table to wipe it away with your thumb. 

“Messy,” you teased, your voice full of affection as you swiped the pastry cream from his lips.

Spencer’s eyes sparkled with mischief as he watched you, clearly enjoying your reaction. “Oh, am I?” he said with a grin, and before you had a chance to react, he swiped some frosting from the sticky cinnamon roll and playfully dabbed it on your cheek.

“Now you’re messy,” he declared triumphantly, his smile widening as he watched your eyes go wide in surprise.

You gasped dramatically, reaching up to touch your cheek and finding the sticky frosting smeared across your skin. “Spencer!” you protested, laughing as you grabbed a napkin to clean yourself up, but not before flicking a tiny crumb in his direction in retaliation.

He laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright! No more food fights,” he said, though the grin on his face made it clear he was enjoying every second of your playful exchange.

The two of you dissolved into laughter, the kind of uninhibited joy that made your sides ache and your cheeks hurt from smiling so much. In that moment, nothing else mattered. Not the crumbs covering the table, not the frosting still clinging to your face, not even the curious glances from the other patrons. It was just the two of you, wrapped up in your own world of love, playfulness, and laughter.

—

The local library had always been Spencer's sanctuary, a place where he found comfort in the stillness, surrounded by shelves filled with knowledge, each book a portal to another world. He had spent countless hours there over the years, developing close bonds with the librarians who worked there. So, when the head librarian’s birthday party was being celebrated, Spencer was eager to bring you along, excited to introduce you to the people who had been a significant part of his life for so long.

As you walked through the library doors, Spencer’s hand tightly holding yours, you could sense how much this place meant to him. There was a sparkle in his eyes, a lightness in his step that spoke of his deep connection to this space. The library wasn’t just a building filled with books—it was part of his identity, a place where he found peace, knowledge, and belonging.

The event itself was small, intimate, just a gathering of close friends, staff, and patrons who knew the librarian well. Balloons were strung around the circulation desk, and a small table was set up with cupcakes and tea. The room buzzed softly with the chatter of people who clearly adored each other, and the air was filled with the smell of old books and sugary sweetness. It was simple, but it felt special, like you had stepped into a warm, welcoming corner of Spencer’s world.

As you entered, Spencer’s excitement was palpable. He gently tugged you along, his face beaming as he navigated the crowd with ease, weaving through the maze of bookshelves toward a small group of people near the front desk. The closer you got, the more you could feel his pride radiating from him.

Finally, you reached the librarian, a kind-faced woman in her sixties who immediately lit up when she saw Spencer. She welcomed him with open arms and a big smile. “Spencer!” she exclaimed warmly, her eyes twinkling with genuine affection. “I’m so glad you made it!”

Spencer smiled back, his hand never leaving yours as he took a step closer. “Of course,” he replied, his voice soft but full of enthusiasm. “I wouldn’t miss it.” Then, with a hint of excitement, he turned to you, his eyes sparkling with joy. “This is Y/N,” he said, his voice filled with love and pride as he introduced you. “I’ve been dying to introduce her to you.”

You could feel the weight of those words, how much it meant to him that you were there with him in this special place, sharing a piece of his world.

The librarian turned to you, her warm smile widening as she reached out to shake your hand. “We’ve heard so much about you,” she said with a knowing grin, her eyes flicking back to Spencer for a moment. “He never stops talking about how wonderful you are.”

Spencer blushed instantly, the pink flush creeping up his cheeks as he squeezed your hand just a little tighter, embarrassed but clearly proud at the same time. “She’s pretty amazing,” he said softly, glancing at you with such affection that it made your heart swell.

You couldn’t help but smile up at him, your chest fluttering with warmth and love. In that small, cozy room filled with Spencer’s friends and colleagues, you felt like you were truly a part of his world, welcomed into the parts of him that were private, cherished, and deeply personal.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in easy conversation, with Spencer introducing you to more of the people who had become like family to him over the years. You could see how much they cared for him, how deeply they admired his intelligence and gentle nature, and how excited they were to meet you. Every introduction was filled with kind words and warm smiles, and each time Spencer’s hand remained in yours, his grip a reassuring constant, a reminder that this moment was as important to him as it was to you.

Later, as you both stood by the cupcake table, Spencer absentmindedly brushing crumbs off your chin from the chocolate cupcake you’d indulged in, you caught him watching you with a soft, almost reverent expression. “What?” you asked, feeling the heat rise in your cheeks under his gaze.

He shook his head slightly, his lips curving into a tender smile. “I’m just really happy you’re here,” he admitted quietly, his voice barely audible above the low hum of chatter in the room.

You smiled, reaching up to brush a stray curl from his forehead. “I’m happy to be here,” you replied softly. “I love seeing this side of you, Spence.”

He leaned down and kissed you gently on the forehead, his thumb stroking your hand as he pulled back. “You’re a part of it now,” he whispered. “A part of all of this.”

And in that moment, you felt like you truly were. Spencer’s world, filled with books, warmth, and the people who had shaped him, now included you. You were building something beautiful together—slowly, steadily, and with every shared experience, you were growing closer, learning more about each other, and weaving your lives together in ways that felt as natural as breathing.

—

Spencer had returned to the nightclub feeling confident and secure in your relationship. After all the beautiful moments you had shared—bookstore dates, Sunday mornings filled with laughter and pastries, intimate nights spent wrapped in each other's arms—he thought nothing could come between you two. But as soon as he stepped back into the club, all of that confidence started to erode.

At first, Spencer tried to keep calm, to enjoy the night as just another visit to your world. He watched you from across the room, smiling and laughing with the staff and customers. But then his gaze landed on Sean, who was standing much too close to you, his body language too familiar, his laugh too casual and comfortable. Spencer’s stomach churned, but he kept it to himself, telling himself that it was just work—that Sean had no place in your personal life. 

But then it happened.

Spencer saw Sean’s hand casually smack your ass. You had your back to Spencer, so you couldn’t see his reaction, but you laughed at Sean’s action, clearly finding it harmless. You didn't think twice about it, but Spencer's vision blurred with a sudden surge of anger. His blood boiled, his breath caught in his chest, and every rational thought flew out of his mind. The sight of someone else—Sean, of all people—touching you like that felt like a punch to his gut.

Before he could stop himself, Spencer stormed across the club, his footsteps heavy with intent. His jaw was clenched, his hands balled into tight fists as he closed the distance between you and Sean. He didn’t care about the crowd or how it might look. All he could see was red—his insecurities and fears bubbling up to the surface with a force he hadn’t expected.

By the time he reached you, Sean was laughing, clearly oblivious to the brewing storm that was Spencer. Without a word, Spencer grabbed Sean by the collar, pulling him toward him with more aggression than he’d ever shown before. The music in the club seemed to dim in Spencer’s ears, and the people around him faded into the background.

“Don’t you ever touch her like that again,” Spencer growled, his voice low and dangerous, the words spilling out before he could even process them.

Your eyes widened in shock, your heart leaping into your throat as you turned to see Spencer—his face twisted in anger, his usually calm and collected demeanor gone. You had never seen him like this before, never seen him this furious, this close to losing control. You quickly stepped between them, putting a hand on Spencer’s chest to stop him from doing something he’d regret.

“Spencer, stop!” you exclaimed, your voice laced with confusion and concern. “What are you doing?”

But Spencer’s gaze was locked on Sean, his grip on the bartender’s collar tight. Sean, for his part, looked stunned but didn’t fight back, raising his hands in defense.

“I didn’t mean anything by it, man,” Sean stammered, trying to defuse the situation. “It was just a joke.”

But to Spencer, it wasn’t a joke. It was a direct assault on everything he feared—the fear of not being enough, the insecurity that had been festering inside him since the day he first saw Sean. And now, all that pent-up jealousy and anger was pouring out in one destructive moment.

You could feel Spencer’s chest heaving beneath your hand, his breathing ragged as he stood there, frozen in his fury. Your heart raced, and you knew you needed to stop this before it escalated any further.

“Spence,” you said softly, trying to get through to him. “Baby, please let go. This isn’t you.”

For a long moment, it seemed like he hadn’t heard you, his eyes still boring into Sean’s. But then, slowly, the tension in Spencer’s body began to ease. His grip on Sean’s collar loosened, and finally, he let go, stepping back and running a shaky hand through his hair. His face was still flushed with anger, but the look in your eyes—hurt, confused, pleading—cut through the haze of his rage.

Spencer glanced between you and Sean, suddenly aware of what he’d done, of how far he’d let things go. Guilt washed over him like a cold wave, and he took a step back, his hands trembling as the adrenaline began to fade.

“I—I’m sorry,” he mumbled, his voice barely audible over the thumping music. “I didn’t mean to…”

But the damage was done. You stood there, still in shock, trying to process what had just happened, while Sean backed away, clearly wanting to put some distance between himself and the situation.

You didn’t know what to say, didn’t know how to make sense of what had just unfolded. Spencer—your Spencer—had never acted like this before. And as much as you wanted to reassure him, to tell him it was okay, you couldn’t ignore the heaviness in your chest, the weight of what had just happened.

Spencer looked at you, his eyes wide with regret, but all you could do was stare back, unsure of what to say, unsure of what came next.

The tension in the air was palpable as security started making their way over, eyes locked on Spencer with the clear intent of handling the situation. Your heart sank even further, realizing that this night had spiraled so far out of control. Before you could say anything, Sean held up a hand to stop them. “It’s fine, Steve,” Sean sighed, shaking his head. “We’re good.”

But his words didn’t ease the knot in your chest. You looked at Sean, “Are you?” Then at Spencer, who stood there looking lost and ashamed. “Are we?” you muttered, your voice heavy with sadness. Without waiting for an answer, you turned on your heel and walked away, unable to even look at Spencer right now. The weight of his actions, of what had just happened, was too much to process in that moment.

Spencer’s heart dropped as he watched you walk away, the pit in his stomach growing deeper with every step you took. “Y/N! Please wait!” he called after you, but you didn’t stop. You couldn’t. You were too overwhelmed, too upset. He chased after you, his feet moving quicker as the panic set in. “Sweetheart, please!” Spencer begged, following you all the way back into your office.

You stepped inside, your hands shaking as you slammed the door shut behind you. The lock clicked into place, but before Spencer could say another word, you whirled around, the anger and frustration bubbling over.

“He’s fucking gay, Spencer!” you yelled, the words coming out with a mix of hurt and exasperation.

Spencer froze, his face falling in utter confusion. “What?” he stammered, blinking rapidly as he tried to make sense of what you just said.

“I didn’t tell you because it’s not my place,” you continued, your voice trembling with the weight of the emotions swirling inside you. “And frankly, it doesn’t fucking matter, but Jesus, Spencer!” You raised your hands in disbelief, the frustration too much to contain.

Spencer stood there, his mind racing as he tried to grasp what you were saying. “I—I’m sorry,” he managed, his voice weak, barely above a whisper. “I didn’t know… I just, he slapped your—your butt, and I saw red. I lost control.”

You ran a hand over your arm, trying to calm yourself down, trying to make sense of why this had gotten so out of hand. Your voice softened, but the hurt was still there as you asked, “Spencer, you’ve seen my friends do it all the time. Hell, your team smacks your ass, and it’s all in good fun. How is it different?”

Spencer’s breath hitched, his eyes dropping to the floor as guilt washed over him. He didn’t have an answer—at least not one that made sense. The truth was, it wasn’t different. But somewhere in the haze of his jealousy and insecurity, he had convinced himself that Sean was a threat. That somehow, Sean’s friendship with you, the easy banter and playfulness between you two, meant he had something Spencer didn’t. And tonight, all of that had come crashing down in the worst way.

“I don’t know,” he whispered, his voice cracking under the weight of his shame. “I—I guess I just got scared. I got jealous. I didn’t think.”

You shook your head, tears of frustration welling up in your eyes as you took a deep breath, trying to steady yourself. “You didn’t think at all,” you muttered, your voice tinged with disappointment. “You didn’t trust me.”

Spencer winced at your words, the truth of them hitting him harder than any reprimand could. “I do trust you,” he said quickly, stepping forward, his hand reaching out for yours. “I trust you more than anyone. I just… I let my insecurities get the best of me. I know it was wrong, and I’m so sorry.”

You closed your eyes for a moment, rubbing your temple as you tried to process everything. You wanted to believe him, to believe that this was just a one-time mistake, but the hurt still lingered. “Spencer, I love you,” you began, your voice softer now, but still firm. “But you can’t keep letting your insecurities drive you. I’ve told you time and time again—there’s no one else. No one but you.”

“I know,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “I know that, I do. But when I saw that… when I saw him touch you, it just—everything I’ve been feeling came to the surface. And I’m so sorry I didn’t handle it better.”

You sighed, crossing your arms over your chest as you leaned back against the desk, still trying to calm your racing heart. “You scared me, Spencer. I’ve never seen you act like that.”

He stepped closer, his face full of regret, his hand reaching out again as he spoke. “I’m sorry. I never wanted to scare you. I just… I messed up. I know I did. Please, sweetheart, I’ll do whatever it takes to make this right. Just… don’t walk away from me.”

You looked at him, his eyes filled with guilt and desperation, and you knew he meant every word. Spencer was never one to lash out like this, never one to let his emotions get the best of him. But tonight, his insecurities had taken over, and now you both were left picking up the pieces.

After a long moment, you took a deep breath and nodded, your voice steady but still firm. “You need to work on this, Spencer. This jealousy, this need to protect me from something that isn’t even there. We can’t have this happen again.”

“I will,” he promised, stepping closer and taking your hands in his. “I swear to you, I’ll work on it. I’ll do whatever it takes. Just please… forgive me.”

"You need to go apologize to Sean," you said, your tone firm but not unkind. "And maybe... maybe you should think about seeing a therapist or counselor. This—this kind of insecurity, it’s not healthy for you or for us."

Spencer nodded, his head hanging low as he absorbed your words. He knew you were right. He had let his own fears and jealousy take control, and now he was faced with the aftermath. "You're right," he repeated, his voice tired and remorseful. "You’re absolutely right."

He sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair, trying to gather himself. His mind was racing, filled with guilt and the weight of what he had done. He knew he had crossed a line, and it hurt to think that he had not only disrespected Sean but also hurt you in the process.

"I’ll go apologize right now," Spencer said, his voice steady, though there was a slight tremble beneath the surface. He looked at you, his eyes filled with regret, but also determination. He wanted to make this right. Not just for you, but for himself.

You gave him a small, encouraging nod, knowing that this was a step in the right direction. "Good," you replied quietly. "But Spence, don’t just apologize for what you did—make sure you understand why you did it. That’s the only way this is going to get better."

"I know," he said softly, his hand reaching out to take yours, squeezing gently. "I’ll fix this. I swear."

You watched as Spencer turned and walked toward the door, his shoulders slightly slumped with the weight of everything he had to face. As he left the office, you let out a long breath, hoping that this moment would be a turning point. For both of you.

Spencer walked up to the bar with hesitant steps, his heart pounding in his chest. He could feel the weight of what he needed to do, the guilt and embarrassment swirling together in a tight knot in his stomach. As he reached the bar, he stood there for a moment, awkwardly waiting for Sean to notice him. His palms were sweaty, and he rubbed them against his jeans, trying to calm himself.

Finally, Sean approached, clearly still a bit shaken from the earlier confrontation, but his expression was guarded, more curious than angry. He raised an eyebrow, waiting for Spencer to speak.

“H–hi, Sean,” Spencer stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. His eyes flicked up to meet Sean’s briefly before dropping back to the floor, the guilt weighing heavily on him. “I… I am so sorry for what I did earlier.”

Sean’s face softened slightly, though his guard didn’t completely drop. He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned against the counter, waiting for Spencer to continue.

“I completely overreacted,” Spencer admitted, his voice trembling as he spoke. “I let my jealousy get the best of me, and I said and did things I never should have. You didn’t deserve that. I didn’t… I didn’t even know the whole story, and I just assumed the worst.”

Sean stayed quiet for a moment, studying Spencer. He could see the sincerity in Spencer’s eyes, the regret etched in every line of his face. Finally, Sean let out a soft sigh, uncrossing his arms.

“Look, man,” Sean began, his tone more understanding than Spencer had anticipated. “I get it. I’ve seen guys lose it over jealousy before. But that doesn’t make what you did okay.”

Spencer nodded quickly, swallowing hard. “I know,” he said, his voice strained. “It’s not okay, and I regret it. Y/N means everything to me, and I let my insecurities cloud my judgment. I’m not trying to make excuses… I just wanted to apologize.”

Sean leaned back slightly, his arms resting on the bar as he gave Spencer a small, almost sympathetic smile. “I appreciate the apology,” he said. “Just… maybe work on not jumping to conclusions next time, alright?”

Spencer nodded vigorously, his heart still racing but relieved that Sean hadn’t completely written him off. “I will,” he promised, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. “I’m going to talk to someone about it. I’m… I know I need to deal with this.”

Sean nodded, his expression easing a little more. “Good. And just so you know, man, I’m not interested in Y/N. Like, at all.” He gave Spencer a meaningful look, letting the words sink in.

Spencer blushed, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “Yeah… I, uh, I know now. I’m sorry I ever thought otherwise.”

Sean let out a small chuckle, shaking his head and gave Spencer a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “We’re good. Just don’t make a habit of it.”

Spencer breathed out a sigh of relief, his shoulders finally relaxing. “Thank you, Sean,” he said quietly, feeling a weight lift from his chest. “I really appreciate it.”

Sean offered a small smile in return. “No problem. Take care of her, alright?”

Spencer nodded again, his heart swelling with a renewed sense of determination. “I will,” he promised, meaning every word.

And with that, Spencer turned away from the bar, feeling lighter than he had when he’d first walked up. He still had a lot of work to do, but this was a start—a step in the right direction.

—

Spencer navigated his way carefully through the hallway, dodging the maze of moving boxes that now cluttered the apartment. The feeling of excitement from his therapy breakthrough still thrummed inside him as he called out for you. 

“Y/N!” he shouted, eager to share his day.

“In the bedroom!” your voice echoed back warmly.

As he pushed past the last of the boxes, Spencer entered the bedroom and found you sitting cross-legged on the floor. A box of printed photos lay open in front of you, and scattered around were dozens of pictures, some slightly faded with time, others bright and new. You looked up at him with tear-filled eyes, your cheeks glowing from a mixture of nostalgia and emotion.

“What do you have there, sweetheart?” Spencer asked gently, his voice filled with warmth as he crouched down beside you, brushing a strand of hair from your face.

You sniffled and smiled, holding up one of the photos—a snapshot of the two of you from a Sunday morning at the bakery, crumbs on your faces, laughing uncontrollably. “All of our memories,” you said softly, your voice thick with emotion. “I found this box while I was packing. I didn’t realize we had so many photos together.”

Spencer’s heart swelled at the sight of the old pictures and the happy tears in your eyes. He gently took the photo from your hand and studied it for a moment, the joy from that day flooding back to him. He remembered the way you had fed him pastries, how you had teased him for getting frosting on his nose, how perfect the world had felt in those little moments.

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to your temple. “We’ve made a lot of good memories, haven’t we?” he murmured, his fingers brushing lightly over the scattered photos.

You nodded, blinking back the tears as you picked up another picture—one from the bookstore, where you had sneakily snapped a photo of him deep in thought, completely absorbed in the world of books. “I never want to forget any of this,” you whispered, your voice trembling with the weight of everything the photos represented.

Spencer sat down beside you, his heart full as he looked over the memories you had collected. “Hey,” He said softly, taking your hand in his. “I had a breakthrough at therapy today.”

You looked up at him, your tear-filled eyes widening with interest. “You did?”

He nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. “Yeah. I think I’m finally starting to understand where all that insecurity came from… and how to manage it better. I’ve still got a lot of work to do, but… I’m getting there.”

Your smile widened as you squeezed his hand, pride swelling in your chest. “Spence, that’s amazing,” you said, your voice filled with love and encouragement.

He squeezed your hand back, his heart feeling lighter than it had in a long time. “I couldn’t have done it without you,” he admitted quietly. “You’ve been so patient with me, even when I wasn’t always patient with myself.”

Your eyes widened at his words, the weight of the question sinking in as you looked up at Spencer. The room seemed to still for a moment, the sound of your breath catching in your throat the only noise breaking the silence. You blinked, trying to process what he had just asked, your heart racing in your chest.

“Will you marry me?” Spencer repeated, his voice softer this time, but no less certain. His eyes were filled with love, vulnerability, and a touch of nervousness, as if he’d been carrying this question for a while, waiting for the right moment to let it out.

Tears welled up in your eyes again, this time from pure joy. You couldn’t help the smile that spread across your face as you took in the sincerity of his expression. He wasn’t just asking for a promise—he was asking to continue writing the rest of your story together, side by side, forever.

You cupped his face with your hands, your heart swelling with love and excitement. “Yes,” you whispered, your voice trembling with emotion. “Yes, Spencer, I’ll marry you.”

Spencer let out a breath he was holding, his own eyes glistening with unshed tears as he pulled you into a deep, heartfelt kiss. Relief, joy, and love coursed through him all at once, making the moment feel surreal. He wrapped his arms around you, holding you close, as if he never wanted to let you go.

When you finally pulled away, both of you were laughing through the tears, caught up in the magic of the moment.

“You really want to marry me?” you teased gently, your forehead pressed against his, your fingers lightly brushing his cheek.

“More than anything in this world,” Spencer said, his voice full of conviction. “You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

Your heart felt like it might burst as you nodded, still in awe of how this moment had unfolded. “I want that too,” you whispered, “forever.”

Spencer kissed you again, slower this time, savoring the sweetness of the moment, the promise of a future filled with more memories, more laughter, more love. And as you sat there, surrounded by the snapshots of your shared past, you couldn’t help but feel excited for all that was yet to come.

You pulled back from the kiss, a playful glint in your eyes. “And hey,” you teased, running a hand through his hair, “maybe you can wear white at the wedding.” Your smirk deepened as you watched Spencer’s expression shift from one of love to amusement.

Spencer threw his head back, laughing loudly, the sound filling the room and making your heart flutter. You always loved how his laugh could light up any space. “I have one problem with your plan,” he said, still chuckling, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“Oh yeah? What’s that, honey?” you asked, raising an eyebrow, fully enjoying the banter between you two.

Spencer leaned in closer, his voice low and full of playful confidence as he said, “I don’t plan on being pure for much longer.”

You burst into laughter, your cheeks flushed from both the teasing and the thrill of the moment. “Oh, is that so?” you teased, leaning into him, your fingers trailing down his chest. “Well, I suppose we’ll just have to do something about that, won’t we?”

Spencer grinned, his blush deepening as he kissed you again, his hands sliding around your waist, pulling you closer. “I guess we will,” he murmured against your lips, his tone both playful and full of promise. 

The two of you stayed wrapped in each other’s arms, the lightness of the moment mingling with the deep love you shared. It was another memory added to the many you had created together, and you couldn’t help but feel that your future, together as partners, was only just beginning.

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[wendichester]

Dean x Baker reader sounds so perfect. imagine the brothers are on a hunt and dean, craving a pie so badly, finds out that there's a tiny bakery that the locals love so much so he decides to go there... and, surprise surprise, reader is the owner🥹 dean would very likely also say some corny pick up line like "I hope this pie is as sweet as you" or something...

⋆. 𐙚 ˚ sugar on top,

summary. who better than dean winchester to disrupt what could be a quiet morning baking? and oh boy, did he leave your heart in shambles.

pairing. dean winchester x baker!reader genre. fluff

wordcount. 473

notes. okay but tell me why i absolutely LOVED this idea?! thank you sm for requesting sweets 🩷

You hear the jingle of the front door as it swings open, and you glance up from the pie crust you’re crimping. It’s quiet this morning, the lull between the breakfast rush and the lunchtime coffee crowd—just the hum of your playlist and the smell of cinnamon-sugar in the air.

Then he walks in.

Tall, broad shoulders, worn leather jacket clinging to him like a second skin, and a face that screams, I’ve been through hell, but damn do I still look good doing it. He takes off his sunglasses, green eyes cutting through the warm light of your bakery, scanning the menu chalked behind you with laser focus.

You’re still staring when he says, “Tell me you’ve got pie.”

You blink. “Uh—plenty. Apple, cherry, pecan, and... I just finished a bourbon maple one about ten minutes ago.”

His eyes actually light up. “Did you say bourbon?”

“I did.”

He walks up to the counter like he’s approaching holy ground. “You must be an angel.”

You laugh under your breath. “Hardly.”

He leans forward, resting one forearm on the glass display case, and god help you, it’s like he knows exactly what he’s doing.

“I hope this pie is as sweet as you,” he says, straight-faced, voice low and gravelly.

You pause, arch a brow. “Did you just hit on me with a pie pun?”

“I did,” he grins, unapologetic. “And I regret nothing.”

You snort and grab a plate, cutting a slice of the bourbon maple and sliding it in front of him. “You’re lucky I like corny.”

He takes a bite—eyes flutter closed, a tiny, reverent groan slips out—and you swear you might have to sit down.

“This is…” he says around a mouthful, “…a religious experience. You single?”

Your heart skips. “Depends. You a serial killer?”

He chuckles, the sound warm and a little worn. “No, ma’am. I kill monsters.”

Your brow furrows. “Is that another pick-up line?”

“Not this time.”

And you don’t know why, but you believe him.

There’s something in his smile—sharp around the edges, but soft at the core—that feels like maybe this guy doesn’t get to enjoy things like pie and flirting with strangers very often. And here he is, indulging in both like he’s starved for it.

“I’m Dean, by the way.”

You offer your name with a little smile, wiping your hands on your apron before reaching out. He shakes it, warm and calloused and maybe a little hesitant.

“You’re gonna be seeing a lot more of me,” he says, already halfway through the slice. “For the pie, of course.”

“Of course,” you say, but the heat in your cheeks gives you away.

And you swear, when he leaves, he turns back just to look at you one more time—like he’s not sure what’s got him more hooked: the bourbon or the baker.

ꔛ. navigation 𓂃˖ ࣪ all drabbles ; compatibility readings ; support my work .ᐟ

[vanteguccir]

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤCRAZY WOMAN ON TOUR * CHRIS STURNIOLO * BLURB

SUMMARY　::　where during day 2 of the Sturniolo Triplets Surprise Party Tour, an insane woman tries to get the boys' attention in a very rude way, interrupting Chris and annoying Y/N.

FEATURING　Chris Sturniolo x reader　REQUESTED?　no.

WARNINGS　::　second-hand embarrassment (lol), purposefully change of the woman's name.

AUTHOR'S NOTE　::　that is my work, I DON'T authorize any form of plagiarism; copy, "inspiration" or translation! | english isn't my first language, so I'm sorry if there's any grammar error.

A/N²: For the ones who don't know what this is about, watch this.

A/N³: I don't know why, but watching the scene of the woman on yesterday's show reminded me of this, and I felt inspired to write this 😭.

Y/N's eyes gleamed with pride and admiration as she watched her boyfriend and his brothers, the golden stage lights casting a beautiful glow over the two vibrant orange couches where the triplets sat.

Matt and Nick lounged comfortably on the left one, their elbows draped lazily over the armrests, while Chris occupied the right couch alone, his right leg crossed over his left.

"Because we're triplets, and we're so close, like, doing all this-" Chris began, his fingers grazing the tattoo on his ankle. But before he could continue, an abrupt, high-pitched voice from the balcony cut the moment like a knife.

"MY NAME IS LANY!"

Chris blinked, his lips parting slightly as he turned his head toward the disruption.

"... Um, hi, Lany." With an exasperated look, he simply muttered before refocusing on his brothers, determined to continue speaking.

But before another syllable could leave his mouth, the same voice shrieked once more.

"MY NAME IS LANY!"

Nick, who had been shifting slightly in his seat, turned sharply toward the source of the noise, lifting his microphone to his mouth with such a strength that Matt swore it would hit his front teeth.

"Can you stop talking?"

For a few seconds, an uneasy silence stretched across the theater before Chris resumed his talking.

"But basically, what I was saying before I was rudely interrupted, was that our tour is so unique and so genuine-"

"MY NAME IS LANY!"

Chris’s jaw visibly clenched, his eyes momentarily shutting in frustration as the same disruptive voice rang out once more.

And that was it.

That was the moment Y/N’s patience finally snapped.

She had been trying - truly trying - to maintain her composure, to let security handle it, to ignore the way this woman was actively trying to end the boys' moment. But the audacity of continuously cutting Chris off, interrupting his focus, and disturbing the flow of their conversation made her skin crawl.

Y/N despised seeing him struggle to stay composed, knowing how much this tour and his surprise for this night meant to him - being right by his side when he got his tattoos. Her fingers curled into her palms, sharp nails hurting her soft skin, and with a steady exhale, she pushed herself up from her seat.

Her movements were smooth but purposeful, pure authority in the way she started walking toward the stairs leading to the balcony. She wasn’t moving impulsively - no, she knew exactly what she was going to do.

Chris, noticing her stand, flicked his gaze toward her briefly, his lips pressing together.

But he didn’t stop her. He knew better.

As she walked, fans sitting by the edge of the rows around the small runway turned their heads, their eyes widening in excitement. Some exchanged whispers, giddy over seeing her so close, while others simply watched in admiration.

They adored her just as much as the boys.

As Y/N finally reached the first row of the balcony, her voice softened, a big contrast to the tension in those around the crazy lady.

"Excuse me." She murmured, offering polite smiles to the fans as she carefully navigated her way past them. "So sorry, just need to get through. Thank you."

Finally, she reached her target.

Lany, seemingly preparing to scream once again, inhaled deeply, but before she could release another obnoxious shriek, Y/N stepped between her and the railing, positioning herself directly in her line of sight.

Her presence alone was commanding, her expression unreadable yet firm. Lowering her voice, she leaned in slightly.

"You need to stop." She said, voice calm but firm. "If you keep this up, you're going to have to leave."

The woman scoffed, folding her arms as she tilted her head.

"Oh, and who exactly are you?"

Y/N's lips curved just slightly, but there was no humor in her eyes.

"I’m the person telling you to stop." She replied, her voice unwavering.

Lany opened her mouth again, tilting her body so her eyes could meet the stage, her breath hitching as she prepared to yell. Y/N, already anticipating it, exhaled sharply and rolled her eyes before making her next move.

In one swift motion, she draped her arm around the woman’s shoulders - not aggressively - but with enough pressure to assume control.

Immediately, several fans close by stood up, concern flashing across their faces, fearing that the woman would hurt Y/N. But Y/N was quick to turn her head slightly and flash them a soft, reassuring smile.

"I’m okay." She murmured, her voice smooth as silk.

Despite the subtle struggle, Lany quickly realized she was outmatched. With little choice, the woman allowed herself to be led toward the stairs.

At the top of it, Paul, the boys' head security guard, and Y/N's favored, was already waiting. His expression flickered with concern as Y/N approached, his gaze scanning her for any sign of distress.

"Please escort her out. She’s done here." Y/N instructed, her tone neutral but firm.

Paul gave a curt nod, his grip solid as he took the woman from Y/N's hold, ignoring the way she tried to escape his hands.

"Understood."

Y/N took a deep breath, her shoulders rolling back as she released the last bit of tension from her muscles. Her gaze instinctively dropped down to the stage, where Matt was talking now. Her eyes were quick to meet Chris's figure, his brows slightly furrowed as he processed everything that had just happened.

Then, as if sensing her eyes on him, Chris glanced up. And when their gazes locked, she sent him a small, knowing smile - one only meant for him.

Chris exhaled, his posture finally easing, his fingers once again tracing the ink on his ankle as he prepared to finally watch the video carrying his surprise.

© vanteguccir