#not even doubting how hailey is here

[agent-stone]

Hiya Stone-man, long time no see! *cracking a grin* Can I get that tracker from your shoulder? I low-key need it and Reyes won't give me one.

- Hailey Robotnikova [AD]

The... tracker in my shoulder?

How do... oh. I don't know if I can get it out safely, but if you can, then yes. You can have it.

-- Stone

[joeys-babe]

Joey B Imagines: Boze Babe

___________________________________________

Summary: you see Joe’s Boze commercial for the first time and can’t help but give him a hard time over his dance moves.

Warnings: pure fluff, just some cussing, and one sexual joke.

Pairing: Joe Burrow x reader

Imagine Universe: Baby, I Love You

___________________________________________

September 14, 2023

Today you were just out shopping with your friends at the outlet mall, enjoying the day together.

your best friend, Taylor, brought her sixteen-year-old sister Hailey along as well. while you loved Hailey just as much as her older sister, she had a slight obsession with your boyfriend.

your boyfriend of six years, Joe Burrow. you and Joe had been together since he was a backup QB at Ohio State. you met in a shared class when you were partnered together for a project. to you, he was an incredibly sweet and cute nerd, who over time you developed a crush on.

one day Joe asked you to get lunch with him after class, which led to many more dates, which led to you moving to Louisiana with him when he transferred to LSU. now here you were, living in Cincinnati and watching Joe live out his NFL dreams.

joe was in his fourth season with the Cincinnati Bengals and you couldn’t be more proud of him. The first game of the season didn’t go as planned, Joe didn’t play his best and he was super mad at himself. you hated seeing him be so critical towards himself and you tried your best to cheer him up but nothing would work.

he was a superstitious guy no doubt so after that game Sunday the hair he’d grown out over the off-season had to go. you were a teeny bit upset at first since you loved his long hair (especially with the headbands) but you loved the fresh fade nonetheless, it was the hairstyle he had when you first fell in love with him so you had a certain attachment to it.

Hailey had already complained to you a couple of times over Joe cutting his hair and even asked you to beg Joe to grow it out again. you thought her obsession was funny and didn’t get annoyed by it, but you were not gonna relay that message to Joe.

you and Taylor were discussing your upcoming game day fits when Hailey let out a grimaced “Ohh.”

Taylor gave you a confused look after seeing her sister watching something on her phone before turning to her sister.

“what’s up?” - Taylor

“y/n have you seen Joe’s new commercial for Boze? - Hailey p

“uh no, I’ve only seen the outfits he wore over Facetime. why?” - you

“you need to put that boy in a dance class because that’s bad.” - Hailey laughed and handed you her phone

you pressed play on the video and didn’t see anything out of the ordinary at first but when you first saw Joe “bust a move” you couldn’t help but copy Hailey's previous grimace before giggling.

“he’s trying! That’s not his element at all and I think he handled it well. even if it is kinda cringe, he’s adorable and quirky at the same time.” - you

“and hot as hell” - Hailey

“hailey! shut up, and stop thirsting over my best friend's boyfriend!” - Taylor

“she’s okay Taylor, I know that joes attractive and other girls are gonna like him.” - you laughed

“It's a little disrespectful for her to say that in front of you though..” - Taylor

“I mean this in the nicest way possible, but I don’t feel threatened.” - you shrugged

“good for you girl. how about we all get some pretzels before we leave?” - Taylor

all of the girls agreed so you all went and got pretzels before making your way back to your respective cars.

you were pretty tired by the time you got home, shopping always tuckered you out so you were looking forward to cuddling with Joe till you guys went to sleep.

when you opened the front door the house was mostly quiet, the only light on downstairs was the living room lamp so you figured Joe was upstairs.

you took your shoes off of your feet and put them on the shoe rack next to Joe's much bigger pairs of Nikes. the small detail made your heart warm and all you wanted was to be close to your man after a long day.

once upstairs it didn’t take you long to find out where Joe was, you could hear the slight football sounds coming from his office meaning he was still watching the film. you slipped into your bedroom put a pair of sweatpants on, including one of Joe's shirts, and made your way back to his office door.

you barely knocked, and through the crack of the door, you saw Joe's head snap towards the direction of the door with a smile forming on his face.

“come in!” - Joe

you gently opened the door and when your full frame was in view, Joe's eyes lit up.

“Baby.” - Joe smiled

“Hi Joey, still haven’t given yourself a break, huh?” - you

Joe sighed as you made your way over to him, he was sitting on the leather couch while watching play reruns on the TV. you were worried about him, Joe had told you there was no reason for you to feel that way but you didn’t want him to be so hard on himself.

“I’m just trying to figure out what went wrong, don’t need a break.” - Joe

you plopped down onto the spot on the couch next to him, his gaze softened when he saw the look of worry on your face.

“y/n, I promise, if I need a break I’ll take one. I don’t right now.” - Joe

“I know you will, I just hate seeing you like this it makes me sad” - you

“Like what?” - joe

“you’re being so hard on yourself. I wish you could see yourself the way I see you. To me you are the most talented boy in the world, while you focus on your mistakes.” - you

Joe looked at you for a few seconds without saying anything, he wasn’t mad at you, he was trying to figure out how he deserved you.

“c’mere” - Joe patted his lap, and you happily obliged

you were now straddling him, your legs on either side of his muscular thighs while your arms were around his neck. Joe's hands were placed on your back as he looked up at you with so much admiration in his eyes.

“I love you so much. you’re the best girlfriend ever, I’m so lucky to have you, baby.” - Joe hugged you close

your heart swelled when he laid his head on your shoulder and nuzzled his face into your neck.

“I love you too, honey. I’m so grateful to have a man like you next to me.” - you

you were startled when Joe abruptly pulled his head off your shoulder.

“Okay enough sappy shit, how was your day with the girls?” - Joe

his change in mood made you laugh before you answered his question.

“it was nice to catch up with them, but I have a question” - you

“I might have an answer” - Joe smiled

“When did you get your pilot license?” - you giggled when joes face contorted with confusion

“what the hell? what do you mean?” - Joe

“I saw you flew an airplane” - you laughed

“What are you talking about? Are you high?” - Joe

“no, Joey! I’m talking about your boze commercial, you did a little dance.” - you grinned

“Ohh. don’t make fun of me!” - Joe rolled his eyes

“I’m not making fun of you! I thought it was cute and funny.” - you giggled

“I tried my best..” - Joe grumbled

“I know you did, baby. I mean you’re an absolute boze babe I'm proud of you for getting out of your comfort zone.” - you smiled as you hugged his neck

“oh yeah? enough for a reward?” - Joe smirked

“Joseph Lee” - you rolled your eyes playfully

Joe laughed as he stood up with me still in his lap, he carried me into the bedroom and threw me onto the bed.

“boy I'm too tired to mess around.” - you

“oh I am too, I was hoping to cuddle” - Joe smiled

you had to blush at that. Joe never initiated the cuddling, so when he did it was always extra sweet.

he crawled into bed next to you and got comfortable before laying his head on your chest.

“Goodnight, baby. I love you” - Joe

“goodnight, joey. love you more.” - you ran one of your hands through his freshly cut hair, before placing a kiss on his forehead.

as long as Joe was by your side you knew you’d always feel happy and safe, he truly was everything you could ever want and need in a partner.

———————————————————————

authors note: my first imagine! hope you enjoyed reading this as much as i enjoyed writing it! ❤️🥰

being 0-2 deserves a fic 😭

[wwemcumuscleslover]

Do you guys remember I saying that I was cooking some Hank Voight, Reader and Charlie Reid one shot.

Here is for you. If you are sensitive, theres a few crimes on it. Plus some inner struggle of feeling and values.

Hope you enjoy and please if can let a comment about. Will be very meaningful to me!

A Divided Heart.

Hank Voight X Reader X Charlie Reid

Your life could be more perfect, wonder with yourself while parking your car at your workplace. The 21 District of Chicago Police Department, after busting your ass on the narcotics division, you received the prestigious call to join the intelligence division of CPD, every cop dream in this city.

This year starts a bitter sweet since your partner Hailey Upton left the job, searching for other chapters in her life, but for your happiness, your new partner is just the leader of that place, Sergeant Hank Voight, he chose you to be his new shoulder, especially after almost died at the hands of serial killer.

Those late talks after shift lead to a casual relationship.The night where everything starts, he asks for your help to complete the last file about some drug crime, the unit lost Martel back those days and Voight was very focused on reading some profiles and maybe found somebody to fill that spot. With a few doubts about the paper, you follow into his office and require his help. Hank calls you closer to his desk and you circle to his side of the table and point to those places where you need his guidance. You couldn’t think what ignited that, but when you saw, he pulled you by the chin and planted his lips on your. The professional side of you screams to stop, because he is your boss and this is very conflicted, but that night your heart was louder and you allowed that kiss, because that man was something. and those last days prove that.

After this, Hank and you start a relationship, something without full commitment, just for fun and stress relief. Even because Camille was very strong in that man’s heart, if this goes beyond, you will never wanna erase that woman of his life. You learned that with your uncle, who married again after losing his wife to a car crash. Voight surprised you with a lot of gifts, on all special occasions and now sometimes you spend some nights at his place.

This day starts very normal, at least normal in cops' lifestyle, Atwater and you team up early in the morning with a dead body found inside an abandoned factory, a woman, around 30 years, there was no deep cuts or other external evidence that could tell what took that young lady's life, you assume that maybe was a party that didn’t finish well, overdose, probably. After dismissing the body to the crime lab facility, you return to 21 and get a very bad surprise. Nina Chapman, current ASA, was into Voight office. you know that feeling of not trusting someone and nothing can change your mind, that is what i always felt about that woman. Every inch of my body screams that there’s something about her, and no matter how much she seems to help this unit, you are never gonna betray your guts, something your parents teach you, intuition is your best friend in life.

Look, I need those wharant, the number of people dying because of those drugs is rising every day. - Hank’s voice is so loud that you could close your ears and the sound will be very clear.

I need more. - Nina replay. - Found more reasonable evidence and I signed those papers without doubt.

The Deaths of those peoples are not reasonable enough for you - Voight says that words like they are shaped like blades.

Fine - She finally said, knowing she lost the argumentation.

You wait in the kitchen until you are sure that she left, therefore you could go to Hank’s office. His face was returning to normal, after all the anger he felt, approaching his table, you grabbed his hand, discreetly, so no one will see, his nerves slowing down and returning to the calm state.

Trouble in paradise? - You ask.

I really don’t know what is wrong with that lady. - He said.

Forget it. - You squeeze his back - And as far i know, you get the papers.

You're right, let's get down for work.

Hey Boss. - Ruzek says. - I have to take Mykayla to a medical appointment.

Is she ok? - Hank questioned him.

Yes, just to remove her arm cast. - He explained

May she get well - You wish.

Adam left the office and Hank divided the team, Kevin and Torres will be in the crime lab, getting more information from the last calls and you will team up with Hank in a meeting with the new Deputy Chief Charlie Reid. Hank needs to update him about this drug crisis in Chicago. The two of you take way to Voight’s car and follow to your destiny.

⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️

Once you were at his office, you had to wait 20 minutes. Reid was in the middle of a conference with the main leadership of the city, who were very upset to know the progress on wiping out these drugs off the city street. Suddenly you feel a spark of anxiety on you, making you press both your hands, Voight notice and squeeze you back, calming you, like you never been in this kind of formal meeting before, in the narcs, you were a just an ordinary cop, but been in the intelligence in another level of responsibility.

Sargent Voight. - A voice called, bring you to the present - Good morning, glad you can make it.

Well, this city is pure chaos, you know better than me - Said Hank, still calming you.

And this young woman with you? - Reid asked, already offering a handshake

Detective Y/N - you said welcoming his handshake.

You've been in the Narcs division right? - he asked with a smile - Lucky for us, I think!

You feel a little shy with the greeting, yes, you are blushing for sure, receiving compliments was never a thing for you, but you started to accept more since you became a cop. The reunion takes like 45 minutes, your evolvement was very short, seen Voight and Reid discuss the situation was like seen titans working together, but the most strange thing was some eyes meeting between you and chief Reid really make the temperature umberbale, like, you have to take you coat, because somehow you started feeling hard to breathe. Not to mention how scared you are to feel like that about another man when your current relationship is just next to you. Reid radio started to receive a call about another house breaking and found more drug points in the east side of the city and the patrol asked if he could make it to the scene. He confirmed and invited us to ride with him. Within 20 minutes we arrived at the crime scene. Charlie Reid approached the patrol guy, who updated the situation.Going beyond the tape and getting into the house, you just found two bodies with multiple shotguns, all covered up by remaining signs of drug powder. it was not necessary to be a genius to acknowledge that was a clear sign of gangs fighting for territory. You get inside another room and just feel hit by a massive smell of drugs, that was the lab, by the things you say, but something in one door calls you attention, some weird fluid was in one wall.

Hey Sarg! - You call. - Can somebody bring a sledgehammer and break that wall? - You request.

A Patrol was there in two minutes and did the job. Once the wall was down, the room was infected by the smell of a decomposed body, and mixing up with the dope smell makes you run outside, trying to avoid throwing up in a crime scene. It requires a mess to twist your stomach like that and you kind of feel lucky to have delayed the lunch to attend that occurrence. You feel a hand on your back, and maybe because of the spinning head you forget to check who was there.

I'm fine baby, don’t worry. - You get your head up and just realize that it wasn't Hank's hand, but actually Reid coming to check on you.

Baby? - Said Reed with one eyebrow raised.

Shit! What I'm gonna do, I mean, it wasn’t like a few cops in the city already knew about Hank and you, but having displayed that kind of information on the first day of your brand new boss, wasn’t a thing you had planned for the day.

I just got the last report, so we can go back to 21 - Hank appears like a savior.

Of course. - Said Reid still staring at you and therefore to Voight. - Hank, if you manage to finish those reports, can I have them at the end of the day?

Sure. - Said him with a smile. - Time for lunch, i think!

Solid work - Reid greetings - Looking for what the future holds, Sergeant Voight

Me Too - replay Voight, sharing another handshake with Reid.

Detective - Reid also gives you a handshake, but he makes it a bit longer than usual and keeps looking deep into your eyes, making it hard to breathe.

⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️

8:30 PM and almost everyone was back at their homes, beside Atwater, Voight and you. The last mission of the day was talking to Karen’s Mom, that was the name of the girl’s body you found hiding in that wall, it looks like that she was murder by her ex and before walking away from the city, he sold his house to those drug dealers. Atwater was on your side once you delivered the news to the poor woman. You love your job, but delivering that news to a family member was the worst for you. After some paperwork, Kevin grabbed his jacket and went home, leaving Hank and You alone in the building, you grab some files to Hank check, he was very busy with another round of paperwork about the current crisis.

Those are reports Reid requested this morning? - You question.

Yes, I am finishing to field them. - Voight looked into his cellphone. - But I don't know if I'm gonna be able to deliver then.

Why not? - You circle his neck and kiss his forehead.

Today I'm gonna have dinner with my grandson, it's been years since. - Hank didn’t finish the sentence, but you knew about Olie, Voight’s Daughter-in-Law moving away from the city after Justin lost his life.

Is it possible for me to deliver those files to Chief Reid while you go see your grandchild? - You ask as a suggestion.

That will be perfect Y/N. - Voight pulls you into his lap and starts a very deep and warm kiss, making you breathe go away. - You’re so damn clever.

⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️

After 15 minutes, you just manage to arrive at the Deputy Reid office and five more minutes until he finishes his previous meeting. You finally were allowed to get to his office.

Detective Y/N, thanks for that gentle attitude. - He was very delighted with your compromise with the city, you wonder. - These files will be very useful, tomorrow’s first reunion.

Well, since Sergeant Voight has something to do, I suggest helping with that. - You said while grabbing the pile of files in your bag. - I made a value with this job and city.

Have a sit.I really never have enough time to get to know you better. - Charlie was already pulling the chair to you.

Thanks Sir.

While you were sitting in the chair, Charlie just positioned in front of you with his arms crossed. Damn they are very thick, you wonder, regretting immediately that. You already have a boyfriend, keep yourself together Y/N.

So, what is your relationship with Sergeant Voight? - He asks while staring deep into your eyes, almost like a soul reading.

He is my boss. - You said putting some emphasis on the boss.

I am not a fool detective. - He says. - That baby word this morning was for him.

That was a very precise statement. How you gonna walk out without revealing too much.The environment around suddenly becomes heavy, you start feeling your mouth very dry, a bit of anxiety. That man in front of you has some aura. there’s power in him and you could stop thinking, actually there’s no thinking at this time at all. Get out Y/N, your intuition screams inside of you.

I gotta go. - You assembled all your strength to get up, but in a fast move, you were laying on his desk, with him holding your arms very firm on the table and pressing your legs strongly.

Don’t need to feel scared Y/N, not gonna harm you. - He whispers in your ear, making you show a beat of your neck. - Actually, my plans with you are different.- Reid started a line of numbing kisses.

So what you want? - you asking between whispers

Your undeniable loyalty!.- he reclames

You already have, you my boss. - you reply to his question.

I have your commitment to the city. - He grabbed both your hands with his left hand, putting above your head, letting his right hand free to grab you chin. - I want you, your loyalty, everything for me, only me. - He finally reaches your mouth, getting you lips on his in a delirious kiss.

The feeling of time freezing was there, like, you wanna end this. But strangely there was that sensation of more.Like since you become a toxic teenager bitch, you have a man. the best man on the planet in Voight. Why do you have these needs running? Reid finally freed you and you were breathless and angry, with him and mad at yourself. He looks at your face with a sassy smile.

Look at you, all red, because of me. - It was very clear how powerful he felt.

How dare you. - You said, while holding the tears.

C’mom, don’t tell me you didn’t love - Reid was proud of himself. - If you were really scared, you will manage to get away, scream for help.

You sick bastard. - you said, finally reaching the door.

I am and also don’t forget, everything he gives to you, I can give twice. - he lay in his chair with his hands behind his head. - Thanks for the files, it was a good idea indeed. Good Night Y/N.

Soo I hope all of you enjoy the ride.

*if there's grammaticy mistake here, forgive, even with a corrector sometimes mistakes pass on the end....

Happy weekend for all. Thanks again for your time!🥰🥰❤️

Ps. Maybe this deserves a part 2.

[sweetiepoison]

Famous Baby (Blurb)

"I do believe a congratulations is in order" Auston smirked at you, a drink in one hand as he leaned onto the counter. It was going on midnight and Auston was on his fifth beer. Sober, he would have never even thought to willingly have a conversation with you.

"For what?" you scrunched your eyebrows at the smug look on his face. "For winning a game" You rolled your eyes, "That's what you're supposed to do, its literally your job." You may have also indulged on a few drinks, but that didn't diffuse your dislike for the hockey player.

"I know, but you didn't think we would do it"

"I knew Justin was capable" you stated mentioning your best friend who invited you to both the game and the after party he decided to throw after his team won the NHL all star weekends tournament. "It was you, that I thought would fumble it"

"I'm an all star for a reason."

"Listen, Aaron" you started sighing and rubbing your forehead.

"Auston" you ignored his correction, continuing your statement. "Please go bother someone else with your gloating."

It was no secret you and Auston hated each other. From the minute Justin introduced you it was clear that was a mistake. You were both successful in your own rights, he as an NHL superstar and yourself as music superstar, but both of you refused to recognize the others success. He thought you were overrated and you thought he was arrogant.

"Fine" he put his hands up in surrender. "I was just trying to make you look a little more approachable for other guys." Auston took a step backwards.

"I dont need your help with that"

Auston knew you were right. You could get any guy here easily and they would be lucky to be with you. But he also knew you were extremely picky and wouldn't approach anyone first. So he decided to use that against you.

"Your right because that permanent frown on your face makes you so approachable" You rolled your eyes again. A habit that intensified since meeting Auston.

"Go torture another girl with your self indulged gloating" This conversation was going on a little too long for your liking.

"At least I'll be talking to someone else" He threw back at you.

"Maybe you'll actually learn to have a conversation that doesn't revolve around you"

"I already know how to do that"

"doubtful" Your one worded response solidified the end of the conversation.

You took a sip of your drink watching him walk away from you and across the large living room. He found a spot next to one of Hailey's friends, who immediately gave into the attention of the 6'3 brunette. You rolled your eyes watching as she held onto every word he said like it was the most interesting conversation she's ever had.

"I didn't think it was actually true." You could hear Justin's voice, but you were so deep in your own thoughts, your only reply was "hmm".

Justin chuckled "If looks could kill, Aus would be dead right now."

You let out a sarcastic laugh "I'm not that lucky."

"Right." Justin nodded chuckling again. "You both are so similar, it's actually scary."

"don't insult me like that"

"It's true!" Justin defended his voice going up an octave. "I mean once you get past the intense hatred you have for each other, it's there."

You weren't like Auston, you reassured yourself. You didn't use your fame to act like a dumbass or put yourself on some pedestal. You never assumed people knew who you were and you never felt the need to brag about your success. No, you and Auston Matthews were nothing alike and you never wanted to be.

[jazminrhode1]

"I Don't Love You Anymore" Matt Sturniolo x Reader One Shot

Summary: You bump into Matt a few years after breaking up.

Word Count: 1744 words

You and your hometown friends were at the mall. You hadn’t seen them since heading off to college and, as much as you loved being away and doing your own thing, there was nothing quite like coming home. The vibe was never quite the same in California.

Every time you came back, your parents were a little older, your brother was a little taller, and it was always a little harder to leave. So much time had passed while you were away even though it felt like no time had passed at all. You fell right back into life as you had always known it. Almost.

Since breaking up with Matt, you had dreaded coming back to Boston. The last time you left, almost two years ago, you didn’t think there was anything left for you here. If your memories of home were a jigsaw, there were a lot of pieces he had taken with him when he left.

Being back - being without him - felt like you were missing a limb. You could feel him everywhere that you went but, he wasn’t there.

Your friends were though. They had been a constant in your life since you were all in diapers and you couldn't picture a world without them in it.

As you strolled through the mall going from store to store, you were glad to be catching up on what had happened in their lives since you last saw each other. Taylor had won some smart-person award at LSU, Hailey had just gotten back from a humanitarian mission, Sophie’s high school boyfriend proposed at the end of the last semester and Jake met the man of his dreams on the streets of Baton Rouge.

You couldn’t help but feel like their lives were moving forward and you just kept falling further and further behind. Apart from good grades and a Bachelor’s degree you really didn’t have much to show for the last couple of years. Nevertheless, you were happy for your friends and they were the reason your world kept spinning after the breakup.

You and Matt had dated all through high school and you thought he was the one. Not only you but, everyone around you. He was kind, he was steady and there was no doubt in your mind that he loved you.

That’s what made the breakup so incomprehensible. You couldn’t understand how his feelings changed overnight. He never really gave you a reason as to why he walked away.

The one person that you trusted more than anyone in the world was the same person who broke you in an instant. Even after all this time, you replayed the words in your head, “I don’t love you anymore”.

As you stood in line at Starbucks, you couldn’t help but think back to when it was you working behind the counter. Most days after school your Mom would drop you off and you would take orders from strangers for hours. No matter how much you hated that job, you kind of miss it now. You missed simpler times.

You could hear your friends talking about boys and travel and kids you went to high school with. You chuckled under your breath at how quickly you all reverted to being teenagers when you were together.

As the barista called your name, a laugh you knew all too well cut through the air and almost made you drop your iced coffee. Taylor saw the color drain from your face, confused she asked “Are you ok?”

Your mouth went dry, butterflies swarmed your stomach and your legs could barely hold you up. “Can we go?” you whispered before you made a B-line for the exit.

You had to get out, you had to leave, you couldn’t bear to see him. You had dreamt of the moment you’d run into each other 10 years from now with your new husband and your shit together. Today was not that day.

Just when you thought you had escaped potentially the most humiliating, depressing encounter of your life, there he was walking straight towards you. And by ‘he’, I mean Matt. Chris was still cackling like a hyena in the Starbucks line.

You froze - panicked - your legs refused to move. Maybe he wouldn’t see you. Maybe he’d do the decent thing and ignore you but, you knew he wasn’t like that.

“Y/n?” he said when he finally looked up from his phone and saw you standing in front of him. He had changed, he didn’t have the ‘baby face’ anymore. He was so fucking hot, it made you sick.

Of course, you would have known this if you hadn't blocked him on every social media platform but, that was the only way that you knew how to move on at 17.

“I didn’t know you were back,” he said, snapping you out of your little daydream. When you didn’t reply he asked, “How are you?”.

There it was, the smile you missed so much. The same one that he flashed when he snuck into your room at night or when he saw you in your prom dress for the first time. It was the smile you thought would always be reserved just for you but, it wasn’t and that was the cruelty of a relationship like that - the same things that were so sweet at the time feel bitter now it’s over.

You couldn’t bear to engage in small talk and made a pathetic excuse to leave. If you were being honest you wanted him to chase after you but, he didn’t do that.

That evening you were sitting in your childhood bedroom wondering why you ever chose pink frilly bedding. So much had changed over the years but, this room was frozen in time.

“Y/n,” you heard your Mom calling from downstairs. You were not in the mood for a spontaneous movie night but, you did promise her that you’d spend more time with the family while you were home. You dragged yourself out of bed and slowly made your way downstairs.

She was standing by the front door that was cracked open. She didn’t say anything as she walked past you to the kitchen offering a reassuring smile.

When you opened the door, Matt was standing there underneath the dim porch light. Your heart began to race, you didn’t want to talk to him. You didn’t have it in you to hash out your past at this moment.

“Y/n…” he began. “I can’t do this…” you interrupted.

He looked confused, almost hurt. “Do what?” he asked.

“This…” you said, gesturing to the distance between you both.

“I just wanted...” he started.

“You broke my heart, Matt” you blurted out. You hadn’t said that before. When he said he didn’t love you, you didn’t say anything. Those were the last words spoken between you both... until this afternoon.

“I know” he whispered. Sadness washed across his face. “I’m sorry,” he said.

You couldn’t make eye contact. It was as though it was happening all over again. You wanted to throw up or pass out, you wanted the ground to swallow you whole.

“Why are you here?” you asked. You wanted him to leave. Rather, you wanted him to have never left but, you couldn’t re-write history.

“When I saw you today… Y/n…” he said with a quiver in his voice.

“Whatever you are going to say, don’t” you warned. You couldn’t hold back your tears and you didn’t care if he thought you were weak. You didn’t want to have this conversation 4 years later but, maybe it’s what you needed.

“I loved you,” you cried, “and you left me… And you never gave me a reason. And you never told me what made you stop loving me.”

“I never stopped loving you,” he whispered as his brows pulled together in a frown.

Your heart sunk. He broke it all over again.

“I didn’t want to hold you back,” he explained. “I knew you were going off to college and I knew I couldn’t go with you.”

“Not good enough,” you spat, “we could’ve made it work.”

“I couldn’t have done that,” he said as tears rolled down his cheeks. “I know it's pathetic but, I couldn’t have been away from you. Not for a second.”

“You couldn’t have got your shit together?” you argued, “For me?”

“Everything I ever did was for you,” he said.

“Liar!” you screamed. “You’re a fucking liar! None of this was for me. This was all about you. You couldn’t handle the long distance. After everything that we went through, you threw it all away when shit got too hard. And, for what? You don’t do that to someone that you love.”

He was silent. You could see the heartbreak in his eyes. You had struck a nerve just like you intended to do but, still, it didn’t make you feel any better. You said everything that you wanted to say and your heart still ached.

“I saw how hard it was for you to leave,” he started. “You were going to stay... for me. You were going to give up your whole future for me. I couldn’t let you do that.”

You bit down on your lip to stop it from shaking. You could hear the regret in his voice as he spoke.

“If at 17 I could have found another way, I would have,” he said. “I didn’t know what to do. I just knew that I couldn't stand in your way. I didn’t want you to regret not going to college. I didn’t want you to regret us... or me…” he sucked in a sharp breath and wiped his eyes on the back of his sleeve.

You couldn’t talk. You wanted to reach out to him, to hold him but, you weren’t strong enough to let go again.

“Y/n, I did love you. I do. I loved you more than anything. I just didn’t know how to tell you how much I wanted you to stay and I couldn’t bear the thought of letting you go again and again.” he said, “I know I broke your heart, Y/n... I broke mine too.”

He turned away from you and sat on the step with his head in his hands. He choked out a silent sob as his whole body shook.

This was unbearable. Maybe the way it ended was for the best. The thought that he was OK made it easier to handle than the mess sitting in front of you. You walked slowly toward the steps and sat down next to him.

“I wish you told me,” you said as he held you close. “I really didn’t know how” he replied.

[dreamwritesimagines]

helloooo dear I'm here to defend Hazel again🗣️🗣️🗣️ I don't wanna mess with anyone's faves but if for some reason Bucky and Hazek never broke up, I feel like they'd end up like Justin and Hailey Bieber im so sorryyyy iyky they give me those vibes 💀 but I'm also here to ask, how are they even still together? what do they talk about? do they talk at all? lol because it sounds like Hazel might ask him something and Bucky’s too busy daydreaming about Birdie 24/7 and planning grand gestures to answer. And like I know you said Bucky does like Hazel at least a little, like he doesn't hate her but does he at least pretend to care? or is he even just a little bit interested? she said they have good sex so good for her a little bit I guess but idk Hazel pls have some self respect and get out of there 🗣️🗣️🗣️you deserve better 🗣️🗣️🗣️ you're an outstandingly accomplished woman and you're begging for crumbs from a newbie politician who fell in love with his employee 🗣️🗣️🗣️

Omg hiiii! 🩷 Our Hazel defender 😂🩷

NOT JUSTIN AND HAILEY BIEBER ASDFGHJKL HELP-

I'm also here to ask, how are they even still together? what do they talk about? do they talk at all? lol because it sounds like Hazel might ask him something and Bucky’s too busy daydreaming about Birdie 24/7 and planning grand gestures to answer.

So I have answers for thiiiis🩷

I do think they talk actually 😂 His relationship with Birdie and his relationship with Hazel; they're obviously very different in many ways but also, especially in the conversations and the gestures😁

So as far as conversations, Hazel and Bucky do spend time together and they have fun😁 Birdie just isn't around when it happens, and we see the story from Birdie's perspective 🩷 I doubt Hazel would be wasting her time with him otherwise, and we will actually see it in her conversations with Birdie, which are going to be veery interesting 😈

But also gestures!

I think so far, every "grand gesture" or like everything Bucky has done to make Hazel happy was more like, thought of. He planned it, and it was a conscious effort on his part to do it, to make sure she'd like it 🩷

With Birdie, it is incredibly different. Everything Bucky has done for Birdie was decided very spontaneously, from the first chapter where he got her that small figurine, it happened in the same day, he saw it, thought of her and got it. When he crushed that guy's hand, yes he planned how to get through the security but other than that, he decided immediately that he would do it. When he calmed her down, or like went to her place, or when he got Blinky back for her, they were all very spontaneous decisions that felt just natural to him 🩷 So at this point, making Birdie happy is basically second nature to him🩷

I know you said Bucky does like Hazel at least a little, like he doesn't hate her but does he at least pretend to care? or is he even just a little bit interested? I think he has genuinely tried to fall in love with her tbh 😁 Especially since Birdie was with Max, and Hazel, -if Birdie wasn't in the picture- would make perfect sense, she still does make perfect sense but Bucky isn't the most logical person, that's the problem asdfghjkl😂

🗣️🗣️🗣️ you're an outstandingly accomplished woman and you're begging for crumbs from a newbie politician who fell in love with his employee 🗣️🗣️🗣️ THIS IS HILARIOUS OMG😂

Aw thank you so much! 🩷

[daintylovers]

Champagne Coast

1.4 The Debut

Seth Cohen x OC (Hailey Atwood)

"You're going to need bedding, and maybe we can hang some lace curtains! Oh, and of course, you'll need a vanity. You probably don't want to share a bathroom with Seth, especially once school comes around." Mrs. Cohen said.

Seth peeked around the corner of the guest room- my room now, "Don't forget a 72-inch flatscreen and a second closet for all the clothes she's gonna accumulate."

"Very funny Seth, thank you." His mom said, rolling her eyes at her son's non-stop commentary.

Chiming in, I said, "Seth, you forgot about the huge sign that will be outside my door that says you aren't allowed in here."

"That's a great idea, Hailey," Mrs. Cohen laughed. I felt on top of the world at that show of likeness.

"Wait, Mom, what will she do about cotilion?" Cotilion?

****

Cotillion- an event that everyone has heard of, besides me. Where girls get together and are auctioned off in front of their loved ones. How sweet...

It's not that I detested the idea, it could be fun given the right circumstances. But I only know Ryan, Seth, and Marissa's boyfriend. Oh, and Mr. Cohen, of course, but I doubt Mrs. Cohen will share.

Yet, she still took it upon herself to sign me up. I protested, giving 101 reasons why it's a bad idea, but she insisted. Talking about how this is a chance to make friends before school and meet boys. But what she overlooked was that every available boy had a date. Hell, even Ryan managed to get partnered with Summer. Seth was... well he should have been beyond pissed. If anything, it was just mild disappointment that crossed his features.

But then even Seth got someone, another new girl named Anna. She was pretty, of course she was all the girls here were. But that left me, a stowaway in case one of the girls got sick or something.

Summer offered to help me find a dress, but Marissa was too caught up in the drama with my brother to give her best friend the attention she craved. Not that I minded, Summer and I just clicked like puzzle pieces.

I wanted to hate her just a little. But how could I when she was so sweet and smelled so good and helped me out when she didn't need to.

"This one's cute!" she said, pulling a gown off the rack, but after a glance at my height, she put it back. "I forget, not everyone's as tall as Marissa,"

"No worries, and seriously, thanks for helping me. I probably just would have picked the first one I saw,"

"Which is why I am your savior. You can't show up to the deb ball in just any dress. It has to be perfect."

I didn't know the first thing about dresses. I wanted to, of course. But given my previous situation, dresses and overall fashion wasn't something I had time to bother with.

'This one! This one! This one!" Summer exclaimed, throwing a dress my way. "Try it on!" she said, thrusting me toward the dressing room.

The girl had a lot of strength for being so lithe. I locked the door behind me and put the dress up to my body in the mirror.

It was chiffon with light straps. The bodice was fit to be almost corset-like, snug to my body until it opened into the skirt, which was flowy. Very fairy princess-esque. I put it on and smiled at the mirror, no matter how cliche. It was the first time I had ever been in a dress like this. First and last, seeing as I don't think I'll ever get married.

"Do you hate it?" Summer popped her head inside. The girl had zero sense of personal privacy.

"Summer!' Get out!" I squealed, but she squeezed her way inside.

"Wow, girl,"

"What? Is it bad?"

"Is it- are you kidding? If you were having trouble finding a date, you sure as hell won't be now. I mean seriously I think I might feel a little jealousy creeping in."

"Shut up," I giggled, pushing on her shoulder a bit, "As if you aren't a model and friends with other models."

"Good, so we are friends!" she smiled, stepping out of the room.

I heard her call for Mrs. Cohen, so I walked out.

What I didn't expect was for Ryan and Seth to round the corner as well.

"Wow," Seth breathed out, while his mom was much more vocal.

"Hailey! Darling, you look stunning! Doesn't she look beautiful?" she says, walking behind me and squeezing my shoulders, showing me off like I was her own.

Ryan chimed in first, "You look like you belong in a forest, playing in the trees," That was the best I was going to get from him.

I breathed in before answering, "Thanks, I think..."

Seth just stood with his mouth slightly open, staring with wide eyes. Feeling flustered, I turned in Mrs. Cohen's grasp. "You like it?"

"Oh, sweetheart, I love it!"

****

The next day, we came back to the country club for practice. What Mrs. Cohen neglected to tell Ryan and me, was that it was dance practice.

Ryan was so screwed. I, on the other hand, was just lonely. Standing off to the side like unwanted cake. With the way Ryan kept fumbling, it might just be better for me to become Summer's escort. I could dance better.

Seth and Anna seemed to be getting along fairly well. Good for her, he was a nice kid.

I had been sitting alone for about ten minutes until a different guy walked in. I hadn't seen him before.

"Sorry I'm late," he interrupted the class. The teacher looked unphased while Marissa left Luke to speak to the new kid. I saw her point in my direction and then walk back to Luke.

"You must be Hailey, right? I'm Issac," the boy, Issac, said, offering his hand to help me up.

I took it and answered, "Yeah, I'm Hailey. Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, I've been tasked with being your escort to this ball," Oh god

"Excuse me?" I questioned, making sure I wasn't hearing things. I looked over to Seth and Ryan, and Seth had already been looking at me.

"Yeah, Marissa told me that she had a girl who needed a date. So, here I am, your white knight," He joked, but I didn't laugh.

I couldn't figure out what was more pathetic. Not having a date or having your date be bribed to bring you.

"You don't have to do this, you know," I say as he brings me onto the dance floor. We started copying everyone else, and I had look down at my feet to not trip up.

"Good thing I want to do this. Marissa said you were pretty, but sometimes she's too nice. Good thing this time she was honest,"

"Thanks, I think?"

"Anytime doll,"

We practiced the dances until the teacher called for a break. I went back over to my stuff while Issac followed.

"You like the curly-haired one or something?"

I practically spit out my water, "What?"

"If you weren't looking at your feet, you were glancing over your shoulder at him. Or is it the blonde you like? Can never be too sure around here,"

"No- I, I don't even know her. And as for Seth, 'cause he has a name, he just told me he couldn't dance is all, so I was waiting for him to trip up or something," I stuttered out.

"Whatever you say, doll,"

We sat in silence until the teacher started up again. This time I made sure to keep my eyes on my date, not anyone else's.

****

"Three hours of dancing? I'm going to dream about the moves tonight in some weird freaky flashmob scenario," I said, walking out with Ryan and Seth.

"Should have warned you," Seth mumbled. He was weird, but I didn't want to be the only one who noticed. "Who was that guy you were dancing with?"

Ryan shot his head toward Seth, "Why man, you don't know him?"

"Never seen him before,"

I chimed in, "His name is Issac. Marissa called him for me so I wasn't dateless,"

Seth fired back, "How old is he?"

"Not sure, but probably our age,"

"Does he go to school around here?"

"I don't know, I didn't ask," I answered, getting a little agitated.

"Do you know anything about him?"

"Oh my god, why? Do you want to fuck him or something?"

That got him to shut up, looking appalled at the insinuation. "No, No of course not. I was just curious. And worried, you never know. He could be an axe murderer,"

Ryan laughed, "Guess she won't know until she's axe murdered then,"

"That's not funny! That happens!"

"Not in this town," I said.

****

After that, we went home, but later on, the boys went out to a party. I stayed home, wanting some much-needed rest before the big day.

Instead, I learned to never skip a party. Luke and Ryan fought again, and Ryan decided that he wouldn't go to the ball. Which left Summer, dateless.

When we arrived at the venue, she was close to tears, "Hailey, this can't be happening! This is a dream for me. For my parents, what am I gonna do!"

I brought her in for a hug and thought about it. I wasn't supposed to be here anyways and this was totally unfair for her. Why should I debut, but she shouldn't? "Take my escort,"

She pulled away immediately, "What?'

"I'm serious, take Issac. He's super sweet and cute. You deserve this. I'm sorry my brother is the most dramatic guy in town," I laughed, trying to lighten her mood.

"But what about you? What about your dress and your debut?"

"I'll live. Go, introduce yourself,"

"Are you sure about this?" she sniffled one last time.

"I've never been more sure about something,"

She launched herself in my arms again, a slew of thanks spilling from her lips, before she bounded away, off to find her prince charming.

A little while later, Luke walked in, fuming. Shouting about how Marissa wasn't coming. A pit formed in my stomach, anyone but him.

I looked at Seth, who was busy talking with Anna. I was so screwed.

I kept my head down, hoping Luke wouldn't find out that I was available. Not like he would want me, but this thing was important.

I heard footsteps make their way over and my heart started racing. Someone tapped me on the shoulder, I reluctantly looked up.

To my surprise, a head of curls was in place of the spiky blonde I was expecting to see, "Seth?"

'I heard that you gave Summer your date,"

I nodded, wanting him to continue, "I let Anna go to Luke. She said her parents would like it better if she debuted with someone who had more status,"

"Oh," was all I could say. I felt bad for him. "You seemed to be getting along so well though,"

"Yeah, I tend to be a very good friend to girls. Nothing more though,"

"Sorry. Your mom is going to be so disappointed," I said looking down.

"Not if we go together,"

My head shot back up, "You would want to go with me? Like, be my date?"

"Doesn't look like I have another option,"

"Right..."

"Sorry, that came out wrong. Just that, of course, I would like to be your escort, if you'll have me," he said, getting down on one knee, more level with me.

I smiled at him, "But you don't even want to be here,"

"Yeah and you swore the same, yet here you are. With a little disappointed pout on your face. It's okay to want this, you know?"

"You'll be my date?"

He grabbed my hand, "Of course."

****

A/N: wow!!! I haven't updated this story in forever. To be fair, I didn't think anyone would really read it. But apparently, people are?? which is awesome! so here's part four! let me know your thoughts and if you want this to be continued <3

[cynicalone94]

Jay, Hailey and their friends have reached their senior year of high school. Hailey’s dad is going to prison, leaving Hailey finally safe but stuck navigating an awkward relationship with her mother. But the Halsteads have another battle coming - and they’ll need all the help they can get.

Chapter 7 now available and this is a hard one guys, no specific warnings just… heavy.

Read on Ao3 here or below the cut.

Bridget Halstead is the kindest, warmest, most generous woman that Hailey has ever met.

Nobody else that she knows would have invited the wife of the man who hospitalized her son eight months ago over for Thanksgiving dinner.

Especially not knowing that she visits said man every single week.

And regularly tells people that she feels he got an unfairly harsh sentence for the crime.

But apparently she didn’t want Christine Upton to be alone for the holiday because Hailey is spending it with the Halsteads.

Which was never in question.

So she’d simply extended her invitation to include Hailey’s mother as well.

And to Hailey’s surprise, Christine had accepted.

Had dressed in her Sunday best, baked a dessert and then insisted that Hailey ride to the Halsteads with her.

Ostensibly to give her directions.

But if Christine is willing to make an effort to spend time with her then Hailey is willing to meet her partway.

And at first, everything is lovely.

Bridget’s cooking is incredible as always and her mom is at least being polite.

She talks to both of his parents about their work, asks Will about school and his job as an EMT.

But she completely ignores Jay.

Hailey had introduced them when they’d arrived at the door.

(She’d introduced all of them but she’s never pretended that Jay isn’t her favorite Halstead)

Christine had smiled politely and then immediately turned to Bridget, asking where it would be best to set her dessert.

And Hailey had tried not to think too much about it but as their mothers disappear into the kitchen together to grab the dessert, she flies out of her chair.

“Hailey-” Jay starts but she dodges his hand as he reaches for her and stalks into the kitchen.

Their moms are talking but she knows Bridget well enough to see the tension in her stance.

She feels like her baby is being rejected just as much as Hailey does.

She’s just too polite to say anything about it until she’s sure.

Is still trying to give Christine the benefit of the doubt.

But Hailey’s getting tired of doing that.

“Why did you even come if you weren’t going to bother to even look him in the eye?” She demands.

“Sweetheart.” Christine scolds. “Bridget and her husband were kind enough to invite us for dinner. This isn’t how your father and I raised you to behave.”

“You didn’t raise me at all.” Hailey snaps.

Christine’s eyes widen.

“So you’re going to treat him just like every other kid your husband smacked around, is that it?” Hailey snarls. “Pretend they don’t exist because acknowledging them, or God forbid caring about them, gets in the way of your perfect wife fantasy?”

“Hailey Anne.” Her mother breathes, looking hurt.

“He broke Jay’s ribs mom.” She says, shaking her head. “You may be able to pretend he doesn’t exist or that dad attacked some scoundrel who deserved what he did but I can’t. I love dad. I will always love dad. But I love Jay too. And if you can’t at least pretend to like him -or just… acknowledge that he’s a real person – then I don’t know what we’re doing here.”

“Love?” Her mother says, shaking her head. “Hailey, you’re still a child. You don’t know what-”

“I’m going to stop you there.” Bridget says in a tone Hailey’s never heard from her. “Your daughter is not a child. She turns eighteen in just a few months. And I don’t know that you or your husband ever truly let any of your children be children.”

“You don’t know anything about my family.” Christine says.

“I know your daughter.” Bridget says. “I know that she is a wonderful, kind young woman that I love like she’s my own. I know that she’s dealt with things that no child should ever have to.”

“That doesn’t make her ready to have a boyfriend.” Christine dismisses. “Or any less naive for believing that this little… puppy love of theirs is real.”

“He stepped in front of her as her father was about to hit her.” Bridget says coldly. “How many times have you done that in the last five years?”

Silence settles heavily over the kitchen.

All three of them know the answer to that question.

They also know that Christine has had a lot more chances than Jay to do so.

“If he wasn’t a greedy, misogynistic jock taking advantage of our daughter than Steven wouldn’t have had to.” Christine says, glancing back toward the dining room.

“Get out of my house.” Bridget says.

“Fine.” Christine answers. “Hailey.”

“I’m not going anywhere with you.” Hailey says, stepping back.

She’s not going home with her mother tonight and she’s certainly not spending twenty minutes stuck in a car with her.

Not now.

Probably not ever.

“Don’t be stupid.” Christine scoffs. “How else are you getting home?”

“Hailey honey.” Bridget says, ignoring her mother completely. “You are more than welcome to stay the night.”

“With the sex-crazed teenage boy that she thinks she’s in love with?” Christine says. “I think not.”

“I don’t need your permission.” Hailey scoffs.

“I am your mother.” Christine says.

Hailey has a lot she could say to that but she bites her tongue.

For now.

“If you stay here tonight, you can pick up your things tomorrow.” Christine says, raising her chin.

Hailey falters.

She may have been counting down the days until she can pack her things and get the hell out of dodge but this…

Would her mom really kick her out over this?

“Fine.” She says calmly.

“Fine then.” Christine says. “I’ll see myself out,”

Hailey keeps it together until she hears the door slam and then sinks to the floor.

“She …”

Bridget sinks down next to her, wrapping her arms around her.

“Oh sweetheart.” She says softly. “I’m so sorry.”

“I just wanted her to be my mom.” She sobs. “Why couldn’t she just be my mom.”

[sirianasims]

Chapter 36

Out Of The Woods

“Daddy, did you see how fast I was? Did you see me?”

“I saw you, you did so well! Ivy and I were cheering for you all the time.”

Hailey had placed second in her first track run. I worked as a coach for the track & field teams now, so Samuel had been sitting with Ivy as they watched Hailey run.

We went to the pier, all four of us together for once, and got ice cream. Hailey was excitedly telling Samuel all about her track times.

It made my heart swell, not so much because she seemed to have a talent for running, but because I hadn’t seen her so proud of herself before, and I was happy that Samuel was here to experience it too. I didn’t want him to miss too many of the girls’ milestones just because we were no longer together.

The girls ran off to try the ferris wheel and we were alone. Samuel awkwardly scooted over to where Hailey had been sitting. We never spent any time together these days. Ever since that uncomfortable Winterfest a year and a half ago, we had mostly kept it to administrative texts and taking turns picking up the girls from kindergarten.

Finally, Samuel cleared his throat.

“So, uh. You look… well.”

I couldn’t help but smile. I was sweaty and Ivy had wiped some ice cream on my sleeve, but I did feel better than I had in a long time.

“Thanks. You too. The beard suits you.”

We talked for a while, carefully sticking to safe subjects. I told him about Jessica getting into fashion design, how she was planning to move to Del Sol Valley with her boyfriend. Samuel updated me on Daria and Griffin who just found out they were expecting a baby.

Then, his expression turned serious.

“Do you ever… have you talked to Charlie?”

I realised that it was the first time either of us had spoken his name for almost two years.

“No. I wouldn’t pick up if he called, but he hasn’t tried.”

“He actually called me when he heard about the divorce. But we didn’t speak for long. I may have said that I would personally castrate him without anaesthesia if he ever contacted you again.”

“Samuel -”

“With a dull scalpel. I was pretty angry at the time, and he said some really cruel things, and… I just don’t know who he is anymore. I haven’t heard from him since.”

I didn’t know what to say. I wanted to give him a hug, but I couldn’t imagine Samuel would ever want me to touch him again.

“Samuel, I’m really sorry that I screwed things up for everyone. Not just us, but you and Charlie too.”

Samuel sighed and attempted to smile.

“Hey, he wasn’t exactly blameless. He was supposed to be my brother. He should never have... anyways, you said you wanted to discuss the girls’ living arrangement? Are you not happy with the split?”

I was grateful for the change of subject.

“I am, but I’ve been asked to coach the track & field team for seniors as well. And I would like to accept, but it’s in the evenings and I’d need you to have the girls a bit more often. I know your schedule can be difficult, so I only want to do it if you can find the time.”

He looked relieved.

“Sure, we can figure something out. For a moment I wondered if you, you know… Found someone.”

“Oh, no. It’s nothing like that. I just figured I should be doing something worthwhile with my time now that the girls are getting older, instead of being stuck in the house all the time.”

“You do know that was always an option, right?”

“Sorry, Samuel, I don’t mean to sound like I was a prisoner. It was my own choice to stay at home, I know. And you did try to talk me out of it.”

“Maybe I should have tried harder.”

“Samuel, don’t. I doubt you could have convinced me back then. I was pretty out of reach, I think. You were right, there was nothing you could have said that would have made me listen.”

We were both quiet.

I wanted to ask him if he was seeing someone, ask why he cared if I was. But suddenly the girls were back and begged for more ice cream and the moment had passed.

beginning / previous / next

[a-fundie-bunch]

Tom Hall here. You know... I think Hannah was right about us not homeschooling. Hailey's actually doing pretty well at school, and so is Ella now - she aged up not too long ago.

Sure, I had my doubts at first - I mean, how could we not? All we heard about public school growing up was that it was evil, and un-Watcherly, and indoctrinating our kids. But I think we made the right decision - our girls are doing great. (Even if I do have to sit with them to make sure they do their homework!)

We have plenty of fun as a family too - school's not everything, of course. I always take the girls to the park on the weekends, and Asher and Madison bring their little ones to play too. I still remember when Tyler and Alyssa were just babies - and look at them now!

I've got to say... growing up, I never thought I'd have this life. I never thought I'd ever be this happy. But I am now - I've got everything I've ever wanted, and even more.

[crescentrivers]

I wrote down my thoughts while I watched working boys and so I don’t make a million posts about it here’s just everything I wrote, under the cut because it’s a little long and cause spoilers

I never really understood the obsession with minor background characters some HF fans have until now, Hailey ily

It takes balls kind of goes hard but that’s only because all the singers are incredible

The reveal that Hidgens getting struck by lightning was how the workin boys died was insane. I actually wasn’t aware the workin boys died until the pit stop in Hatchetfield stream I thought they were fine until getting infected in TGWDLM. RIP the mark chastity is workin boys Mark joke headcanon

Why is Grace even watching the show if she thinks it’s about hookers??? also is Grace friends with Richie and Ruth in this timeline

Everyone is so good at singing aaaaaaaaa

Also can I point out how Hidgens gets more and more deranged every time we see him? Like he was a little crazy in TGWDLM then ape-man happened, and now this. He’s on a downward spiral and I love it

Workin Boys is clearly very personal to Hidgens him saying it’s loosely based on personal experiences is such a lie. He listens to the girls’ AMAZING singing and then says everything is horrible because it’s not like his boys

Are the zombies their real ghosts or is Pokey being silly. The blue lighting isn’t helpful in me figuring this out.

Hidgens is gay for Chad (we kind of already knew that but it’s just more obvious now)

Okay this is definitely Pokey’s fault I doubt the workin boys are that evil cause they’re suggesting he kills or something

Poor Ruth, would yall hate me if I said this made me feel more sympathy for her than just for once (maybe my opinion will change if I rewatch NPMD but this is how I feel right now) just for once is a good song though

The girls are incredible singers please don’t let them die

I won’t stand for this Hailey abuse

HES GONNA KILL THEM OH NO

RUTH PLEASE LIVE RICHIE IS IN THE CROWD HES YOUR FRIEND (and I think Grace is her friend in this timeline too???)

Oh that’s some gore

Linda saying good about the actresses being dead-

The Starlight Theatre is small actually (I know that’s probably just budget things and it’s bigger in universe but it’s interesting to think about considering the touring production of mamma Mia went there)

Ted got shot in the head like in TGWDLM

Grace saying wow after shooting him. She’s a little bloodthirsty in every timeline I think

The gore??? It’s crazy

Grace saves people from deranged killers but ends up becoming a deranged killer herself, this is becoming a running theme in the timelines

(She doesn’t know about the LIB in this timeline so maybe things will be fine this time but I don’t trust that)

Linda clapping at the end of the show-

I’m sad about Ruth dying and I’m sad that her friend(s) were in the audience too

This leaves me with more questions than answers about the zombies, like I’m assuming blaming Pokey is reasonable but we also don’t know so-

Rip Ruth rip Hailey rip the rest of the girls rip the workin boys rip Ted rip Hidgens

All the songs are great also

[skylarmoon71]

Aaron Hotchner (Criminal Minds) Chapter 36 - Final

Walking into the BAU that morning, you’re unnaturally happy. 

The day seems to go by like any other. 

You’re assigned a case and just like that, you’re all on the road again. Throughout assessments and profiles, you can’t help but cast looks at Hotch. You’re a bit giddy, because at times, he seems to already be looking your way. 

It’s an amazing thing. 

For the next couple of days you’re a bit busy, and when you return from your most recent case, the professional wall lowers and you and Hotch feel like regular people again. The team is bidding their goodbyes, and you wave them off as you head to do a bit of filing. Hotch has certainly had the same idea. 

He’s in his office finishing up, and the sight of him through the blinds brings back some memories. 

It’s a bit involuntary. 

“If that’s all you can leave.” 

His tone is cold, you’ve gotten used to it. Hotch is never one to spare words when it’s necessary. That’s why it's weird he has so little for you. Mostly, it’s just hard to be this close yet unable to touch him like you did. Hold him. Smile and watch him lower all those guards he wears bravely for the sake of his team. 

“Yes sir.” 

Just those words were a bit hard to utter. It’s crazy how you both went from lovers to strangers in the span of a few days. For them, you’ve only joined for a few months, but your father had dropped you off right after Hailey was safe. 

Now you’re back on the team but it’s not the same. 

At the time it was difficult, but just seeing him, seeing the way Jack would light up whenever he made a surprise visit with his mother at the bureau, it felt right. 

Then there were the times that you could see it. The fear in Hotch’s eyes at the thought of never seeing you again. He couldn’t have imagined what you planned to do, but you knew he realized whatever it was, you would be the one getting the short end of the stick. Just like that, all those days, weeks, months, they would be gone. He’d rushed right for you, despite it all, but it was useless, you were gone, into the veil with your father to give Hotch a better life. A happier one. Easier one, even if you couldn’t be a part of it. 

“Don’t…Don’t go with him.”

“DON’T!!” 

“Goodbye Hotchner.”

A sour feeling settles in your stomach and guilt washes over you at all those conflicting thoughts. 

Maybe that’s what possesses you to move to his office. You walk up the short flight of stairs, and as you enter, it looks like he’s ready to call it a night as well. 

“Are you ready to go?” 

You ask softly. 

He nods, stacking the files on his desk. You close the door, and then you linger there making him look up. 

“I’m sorry Hotch.” 

He’s a bit confused on why you’re apologizing.

“I thought that I was doing the right thing. My father told me that he could bring her back and I..it felt selfish not to try and give you a chance to be happy.” 

He couldn’t believe you were actually apologizing. He can say without a doubt that he understood and respected what you did. You knew that making such a decision would rob you of your own happiness, but you saw a chance to ensure he would still have his and you took it. Not just for him, but his son. There weren’t words to express how much that meant to him. 

How much you mean to him. 

Hotch approaches, taking your hand. 

“You brought back Hailey. Because of you Jack doesn’t have to grow up without a mother.  (Y/N), you sacrificed your happiness for me. For Jack. There’s nothing I can do that could ever make up for that.”

You’re teary eyed again and you smile. 

“I love you so much…” 

You manage to say. He can’t help but smile. You’ve stolen the words right out of his mouth. It’s a bit crazy. When you started this partnership, there was so much uncertainty. 

Hotch had hardly trusted you at the start, but now looking at him here, it’s hard to picture what life would be like if you hadn’t transferred in. He changed a lot in your life for the better. You can’t imagine life without him. 

“I love you too.” 

He kisses you happily and you hold on tight. 

There’s nothing more you can ask for in life. 

You’re both content.

Complete.

[lautity]

field dressing playlist post for you . lex and hailey childhood friends grew up in the same trailer park. no i havent talked abt this ship at all there is a post abt them cooking dont even worry.

deer !deer! hailey is so deergirl. ok. i think theres probably a lot of cop incidents where they live but i think hailey would be really unaware of how bad lex's family was until something drastic happened (or even unaware of the issues with her own family. undecided on those). anywayss i think they miss each other later especially (unexpectedly?) lex more than hailey . they're very much like close in a peculiar specific way where hailey isn't aware of how well she knows lex but they're such a private person that almost nobody else knows or understands them the way they've allowed hailey to.

(addendum: steph is not an exception. lex is very sparing with what she tells steph and it can be an ordeal to get them to crack and be open Especially about vulnerable subjects. this barrier is far lower for hailey)

i fear hailey is just so desperate to be cared about she just wants to be good and cared for even when it hurts. so she tolerates lex's mean streak and tries her best to be obedient and she doesnt expect lex to actually reciprocate her feelings meaningfully or return her kindness. she's honestly kind of bad abt giving lex a free pass to be cruel because of her background.

Sigh . lex is in a band lex plays music but hailey is too nervous to sing she doesnt like her voice even though musicals are her favorite.... sigh. and the avoidance hailey is Never bringing up issues i fear. lex gets pretty good at reading her and noticing this but hailey will actively avoid confrontation even when lex knows something is up

robyn.210 - i want

this song is rly fun because you can read the first two lyrics here as being about both zoey and steph depending on whose pov. hailey is hurt by lex having other friends (fwb) (hailey is insanely jealous lol) despite the fact that they arent dating or anything committed/exclusive... even when theyre back together way later theyre always kind of circling each other. was she better? do you miss her? do you wish i was more like her, more sociable, more likable, just more? theyre both pretty pessimistic and struggle with their ability to maintain relationships so its a lot of weird doubt.

really struggling to talk abt this one . something about someone you know being a burden you carry and your love for them is like drowning and simultaneously how could it kill you if it was never real. okay.you see

you should listen to chase petra. okayyy. i just fear being kids together and coming out as trans to each other and being one anothers first kiss and all the gentle understanding of being there for someones whole life and having these summer-scented memories of them. and how everything comes together when you're with them and falls apart without. someone who is right and makes things make sense.

[sylkiddsey]

Prompt: “Hold Onto Me”

Set in the early/ middle of season 8

Sylvie’s going to kill Stella. She’s actually going to corner her behind the rotting benches on their side of the field and murder her.

She did this. She implanted this stupid idea about her and Matt; Matt freaking Casey who has to be the worst possible person to have somewhat feelings for.

Okay, maybe Olivia is the one to blame since she said the stupid six words that can’t stop ringing through her brain like a bell. Still, Stella didn’t disagree. She also didn’t slap Sylvie across the face for even considering wanting Matt. Instead, she smirked and now she won’t let it go.

Now, she begged Sylvie to join the CFD softball team who annually plays against CPD. It’s strictly a pissing contest whose only prize is winning and bragging rights. It’s something Severide created so he could kick Jay Halstead’s ass.

Her best friend, her evil intentioned best friend, encouraged her to join this year. She insisted it was because Sylvie played softball in high school. Her friend knows she has a good arm so of course she’d want her on the team.

Wrong, this decision; this torture, is all because of Matt Casey. Stella convinced her here, so she had no choice but to stare and pine for the man who brings a whole new definition to the word swoon.

He’s hot on any given day, that much is obvious. It’s just a fact because any girl who encounters him on a scene, sweaty, stern and sometimes dirty, gets star eyes. They look at him like some Greek god and Sylvie’s human.

Matt’s incredibly attractive but this scene, this look is ungodly. When she first saw him, she rubbed her eyes so hard she saw spots. She thought she was hallucinating but this man was real.

The second-hand cheap uniform that’s oversized on her fits him amazingly. His shirt is halfway unbuttoned with the sleeves rolled up so all she can see is tan skin. Plus, his backwards baseball cap stirs something inside her that she didn’t even know existed.

Not to mention, his semi-competitive nature is a real turn on. All of it is entirely inappropriate considering he’s Gabby’s ex-husband. Matt’s her friend and she reasons with herself that any woman would admire this look. Hell, maybe Hailey and Kim are right there with her.

However, based on their starry looks for their respective partner’s, she doubts it. Unfortunately, she’s probably the only one foaming at the mouth. Well, she has seen the blonde female patrol cop making heart eyes at him.

There’s that at least.

God, she’s going to kill Stella after this. There’s no way she didn’t know what she was doing. She wanted her to have to see Matt like this. Just because she’s so happy with her own firefighter man does not give her the right.

Although Sylvie has murder on her mind, she’s also sadistically glad to play alongside him. She’s damn good and it’s thrilling to see his reaction. He even swatted her ass in congratulations after she ran into home base when Cruz advanced to first.

He’s never done that before, and she really can’t say she hated it. Although it was a little awkward when Hermann did the same thing. It’s endearing how into the game Hermann gets. She loves seeing his carefree self.

All and all, playing on the team is fun and they are definitely kicking PD’s ass. They are up by five runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Jay and Atwater are good and Hailey’s surprisingly fast, but Adam and Kim can’t stop flirting to really do any good. Plus, the patrol cops Platt threatened so they’d join the team are clearly not into it. They rarely make contact with the ball or catch anything in the outfield.

Realistically, her team is in much better shape. Matt and Severide are athletes and Stella and Foster are so competitive it turns into skill. Cruz is one of the best third basemen and Gallo has hit more home runs than anybody. Even Ritter is quick on his feet.

She’s sure they are going to win which is probably why Severide gives in and lets her pitch another inning. His arm is sore, so he forfeits his pitcher status so that means she’s up again.

So far, she’s striked out most of PD aside from a few badly called balls. Trudy Platt makes a very biased umpire, but what can you do? Severide, aka the self-elected leader, pulled himself out while bases were loaded. Hailey had just reached first, pushing Atwater to second. Now, Jay is up to bat, and he looks determined.

His used helmet tips down and he adjusts, getting into a proper swinging stance. “Show us what you got Brett.”

What is it about men and trash talk?

She bends her knees and winds her arm. Ideally, it should pass through the strike zone without that bat making contact. She reels back and shoots forward, throwing the pale-yellow ball as hard as she can.

Jay swings, but misses, the softball landing in Cruz’s catcher mitt with a thwack. Platt declares her throw as a strike.

“Atta girl!” Stella hollers from the short-stop position. She smacks her hand into the glove and winks.

Okay, maybe Sylvie won’t kill her. She’s too encouraging for that.

Jay murmurs, scuffs his sneaker against the dirt and then repositions. He holds the bat behind his shoulder, and she winds up again, throwing the ball a little higher this time. Jay swings and misses, Platt declaring a second strike.

One more and he’s out and CFD bats again. She can easily do this.

“You got this, Brett.”

She looks over her shoulder. Matt’s playing first base because, duh, he’s just that good. He grins at her which causes a wave of nervousness to rush over. Before, she felt confident, but now with Matt’s very blue eyes tracking her every movement, she has butterflies.

God he looks so good. This Saturday evening hue does wonders for him.

Once Jay repositions again, she winds her arm back. She rotates her joint in a circle and releases the ball once it’s straight. It soars in the air harder than the previous ones and she watches Jay’s shinny blue bat make contact. Her eyes drift back onto Matt so she can watch him in action. She registers the harsh clinking noise and hears a simultaneous gasp amongst PD players inside the dugout.

She’s not sure what that is about until the ball comes flying back in her direction and beams her directly in the side of the head. Everything goes dark and before she can process anything, she tastes rich dirt on her lips.

There are a lot of voices all around her, but the throbbing inside her skull and eye socket makes it hard to process any of it. Jay can really hit the ball which should’ve been obvious. The man hits doors with battering rams for a living.

He has some power.

“Sylvie, can you hear me?”

Oh great. Matt, of course he’s here. Of course, the man she can’t get out of her damn head just witnessed her not so graceful face plant into the dirt.

This is humiliating.

His warm, rough hand grazes the back of her head. Despite not being able to open her eyes, she knows his face is right in front of hers. His voice sounds close, and she can also smell the faint scent of the cologne he probably put on before all this.

He grips her shoulder with his unoccupied hand. “Hey, I need you to open your eyes.”

The tone of his voice somehow lessens the pain, so she tries to blink. At first, everything is blurry. All she can see is redness and several sets of feet. After she lets her eyes adjust, she realizes she’s on her stomach. Her right eye is also swollen and throbbing.

“Hey, she’s coming to!”

Stella? Sylvie rolls herself onto her back covering her bad eye. Stella’s crouched next to her, shouting at Foster who is rooting around in the dugout. She’s probably looking for a first aid kit.

The game has apparently stopped. Everyone is crowded around her like she’s some zoo extraction. It is so embarrassing.

“Sylvie, hey? Are you alright?” Matt asks, allowing his hand to cup the side of her face. His worried features are blurry, but still tense.

“Geez, is she okay?”

Jay’s bent at the waist, hands on his knees by her feet. His expression is a mixture between worry and guilty.

Matt shoots him a tense glare, voice low and angry. She’s heard him talk like this on scenes with uncooperative people. “What do you think? You beamed her in the head.”

She’s sure poor Jay didn’t mean to do it. He just had a great hit and maybe if she wasn’t admiring Matt, she could’ve ducked.

Matt turns his attention on her again, narrowed eyes growing soft. His fingers brush some dirt off her face. “Hey, can you talk to me? Do you know where you are?”

Unfortunately, she does.

Her stomach churns at the reality of all this along with the pain. She feels herself grow pale.

“I’m going to be sick,” she murmurs, turning onto her right side by Stella. If she’s going to lose her sandwich Cindy packed for all of them, she’d rather Matt not witnesses that. She’s sure Stella won’t appreciate it, but this is also kind of her fault. She talked her into this.

When she’s on her side, the nausea dissipates. After she feels better, she rolls onto her back. Somehow, she ends up in Matt’s lap with his arm supporting her shoulders.

Emily runs over with the pitiful first aid kit someone left behind in the dugout. When she unpacks it, there is only a small bottle of rubbing alcohol and a warm ice pack.

Sylvie feels something wet roll down her face. She touches the skin above her eye and realizes it must’ve split open from the ball's stitches. She’s bleeding.

“You need a hospital, partner,” Foster says. “You’ll probably need stitches and a CT.”

Yeah, she’d agree she has a concussion. A cop’s strength will do that to a person.

“I’m so sorry, Brett,” Jay apologizes.

She gives him a thumbs up and mumbles, “It’s fine.”

Matt looks down at her, gently caressing her head. “I’m going to take you to Med.”

“What about the game?” Severide asks.

Both Stella and Matt glare through his soul. Although, she’s not upset with him at all. She doesn’t expect they stop the game all because of this.

“She’s bleeding and concussed. I think you’ll survive forfeiting the game,” Matt retorts.

“No, keep playing,” she insists, wincing at how talking aggravates her injury. “Cindy or someone from the stands can take me.”

“No way,” he argues. “I got it.”

Oh god. This can’t get any worse. She loves how much he cares, but he’s killing her.

Stella must notice because she pipes up. “It’s okay, Casey. I can take her. You keep playing.”

Matt begins maneuvering her in his arms. She groans as he just barely jostles her. She’s seeing stars.

“No offense Kidd, but I don’t think you can carry her to the car,” he replies.

Carry? She can probably walk.

“Casey, I can walk,” she protests, but he doesn’t listen. He slides one arm under her back and legs.

“No, you can’t Sylvie,” he replies. “Hold onto me.”

She has no choice but to do what he asks. She wraps her arms around his neck, and he hoists her in his arms like she’s weightless. The movement makes her dizzy, so she rests her head on his broad shoulder.

Despite how embarrassing this is, she can’t say she’s miserable. This is surprisingly nice.

“Kidd, can you grab my keys from my bag and help me get her in the truck?” He requests.

“Sure.”

Sylvie ignores the commotion around her and focuses on how nice it feels to be in his arms.

:::

She winds up behind a curtain in Med’s ER with one of Matt’s old t-shirts against her bleeding eye as she waits. Unfortunately, the ER is overflowing with people who are in worse shape so she’s stuck waiting. It doesn’t matter that Matt already made an enemy out of one of the doctor’s she doesn’t know after he demanded she get some ice; she still has to wait.

The bleeding has slowed, but she’s definitely dizzy. Matt had of course carried her in despite the many many times she insisted she could walk. He never listened because he carried her until he gently sat her on the gurney.

Now, he’s standing next to her with one of her hands tight in his. He took off the hat at some point, so his hair is disheveled and messy. It’s not a bad change.

She really didn’t think he’d stick around, but they’ve been waiting almost an hour and he’s stayed by her side. She’s somewhat reclined back with her knees propped up and her left-hand holding pressure against her face.

He told her ten minutes ago that Stella texted that she and Emily were trying to visit, but with the ER so packed, the nursing staff wanted all unnecessary visitors out.

She understands and as much as she loves her friends, Matt is great company too.

She squeezes Matt’s fingers to lessen the pain because her eye is throbbing and swollen. He must notice the additional pressure because he turns his head and frowns.

“Hey, is it getting worse?” He asks.

“No, just throbs every now and then. I guess that is happens when you take a softball to the eye socket.”

So far, he’s been standing next to her, leaning on the railing every once and awhile after stretching his back. Now, he reaches for one of the plastic chairs with one hand and drags it next to her. He sits down, resting both elbows on the railing and moves his free hand to her head.

He sweeps some hair out of her eyes. “Yeah, Halstead hit you hard, Brett.”

She bites her lip to keep from laughing. “Yeah, I know Casey. I felt it.”

Matt chuckles, letting his hand rest on the top of her head. “I bet. You dropped to the ground instantly. I don’t think anyone had time to react.”

God, that’s so embarrassing.

She groans. “Just great. That’s not humiliating at all.”

“Oh, come on,” he replies. “There is nothing embarrassing about getting hurt. It was Halstead’s fault. Not yours.”

“He didn’t mean to hit me. It was a good hit,” she says. “I should’ve ducked or gotten out of the way. It’s not Jay’s fault.”

He leans back but keeps ahold of her hand. “I don’t care. You shouldn’t have gotten hit like that. You’re going to need stitches and you probably have a concussion.”

She ticks one finger in the air. “Definitely have a concussion. Paramedics know these things, but hey, at least I didn’t break anything.”

The second she makes the joke, she regrets it. Matt’s expression shifts and she berates herself for making light of the Arnow fire.

“I…I’m sorry,” she whispers, squeezing his hand. “I shouldn’t have…”

He shakes his head and shifts his gaze down. “No, no, you’re right. I guess it’s kind of hypocritical of me to be upset with Halstead for hurting you when I did the same.”

She’s so stupid. How could she bring this up? It’s not Matt’s fault. She’s never blamed him ever.

“Casey, you didn’t…” she chews on the inside of her lip. “It wasn’t your fault. I would never blame you for what happened.”

He meets her stare. “I called you in, Brett. I told you it was safe. That’s on me.”

She knows he holds so much guilt over that day, especially Otis’s death. It’s unnecessary because it wasn’t on him. It was the factory’s negligence that caused the blast.

“You thought it was,” she replies. “Everyone did. There was no way for you to know. I don’t blame you and you shouldn’t blame yourself.”

“Yeah,” he replies, but she can tell he doesn’t believe it. He probably never will.

She switches gears and lets her gaze settle on his hand, watching as his rough thumb grazes her pointer finger in soothing patterns. Originally, she thought this injury was a curse, but it’s kind of a blessing. It’s nice to see how much he cares.

He’s a great guy.

“You know,” she whispers, looking up at him. She wants this next confession to really sink in. “More than anyone in the world, I’d trust you with my life. I really would, Casey.”

The signature solemn Matt Casey looks changes. The corner of his mouth ticks up in a small grin. “I appreciate that.” He clears his throat, and she swears his cheeks turn a little red, but that might just be her impaired vision. “When Boden came over the radio and said someone was hurt…I was really hoping it wasn’t you. I mean, I didn’t want Foster or anybody else to be really hurt, but I don’t know.”

She holds her breath in anticipation. The confession startles her to her core. What does that even mean?”

“I guess what I’m saying is…worst case scenario for me was that it was you who was hurt…well, aside from the absolute worst…”

She gently interrupts him. They both know what he means. “Yeah, I know.” She decides to shift the tone. “I knew I’d grow on you eventually.”

Huh, maybe that wasn’t a good idea. She is concussed and the pain meds just now kicked in. She’ll blame her loose filter on that.

Matt chuckles, scratching the back of his neck. “Well, I wouldn’t say you never did. I mean, I’ve liked you since the day I met you.”

Platonically, she reminds herself.

She purses her lips. “No, you definitely didn’t. We barely knew each other. I was just…”

Gabby’s best friend.

God, she’s the worst person ever. She shouldn’t be holding Matt’s hand right now. It’s wrong.

She tries to ease her hand away, but his grip never waivers.

Whatever. If he’s okay with it, so is she.

It’s all friendly anyway.

“Okay,” Matt concedes. “Maybe it took me a couple years to really appreciate you in all your glory, but I had a lot going on. Now, I don’t know…I guess it’s easy with you. I mean, talking and hopefully, building a friendship.”

His sentence trails off with a question. She can’t believe he would think for one second that she doesn’t consider him as a friend.

She does.

The pain meds are leaving her feeling fuzzy. She grins, readjusting the shirt that smells like Matt against her eye. “See? I knew you’d fall in love with me.”

Oh my god.

She lifts her head and the room spins, but she’s too immersed in her panic to clock her symptoms.

Did she really just…

To her surprise, Matt doesn’t look appalled by her stupid slip-up. He’s actually grinning in amusement.

“Oh my god,” she whispers. “I didn’t mean…pickles.” She shakes her head, averting her gaze onto the tiled ceiling. “Platonically of course. I meant platonically fall in love. I say the same thing to Severide which I obviously don’t want him in love with me. Not that he would. I mean, he’s madly in love with Stella which I want! I want my best friend so happy. I’m not…oh my god.”

She feels like a human car crash. Every move she makes causes more damage.

“Brett,” Matt laughs.

“Obviously you’ll never fall in love with me,” Sylvie says. It’s true. “Nor would I ever in a million years want you to, Casey.” Unfortunate lie.

He raises his eyebrows. Did she offend him?

“You’re not my type. You’re not unattractive obviously…I mean, I’m not saying I don’t think your…”

Now would be the best time for her blood vessels to pop if she does in fact have a brain bleed. It would shut her up, but also give her an excuse to hide behind after all that word vomit.

“Sylvie,” he interrupts, lightly patting her head. “You’re drugged up on pain pills. Probably best you stop talking.”

Yeah, definitely not a bad idea.

“I’m sorry,” she whispers. “I’m so sorry. You can um…I can wait alone. I don’t want to put you out. You probably have things…”

“You better not be trying to push me away now,” he says. “I like being here for you, okay? And I like that you seem to like it too. Just let me.”

Gosh, he’s so earnest. It amazes her.

“I do like you here. I appreciate it,” she says. “I really do.”

She does.

Appreciate him.

[wafflesetc]

Jesse told us to trust the process, maybe this was what he meant 🥲

In retrospect, maybe he was/is right - maybe there is a greater plot in all of this. One where the actors and writers were somewhat on the same page and knew what would be happening between the next two seasons, so just maybe we could trust the process. However, I don't want to give the writers THAT much benefit of the doubt right now, because what they did with Jay's departure makes no sense on both his character and how he handled the relationship. So, I am timidly hopeful, and still reserving my judgement until we get more facts. (More facts being how many episodes season 11 will be - and/or if we hear how many episodes Tracy will be active in within season 11).

I have no doubt that Hailey and Jay can make it - most of the fans (if an Upstead shipper) will probably agree Hailey and Jay can make it. I'd be inclined to say that I think J/T would even say Hailey and Jay can make it. It's the writers who have to decide if that happens, and sadly, that's the scariest thought here.

[voightsangel91]

Summary: Hailey and Jay are working things out with Voight in the midst of all the chaos after Anna's death and Voight getting shot.

What was it that attracted people to Hank Voight? More importantly what attracted Hailey Upton and Jay Halstead to their Sergeant. Was it his disregard for doing things the formal way? Was it how much of a badass he could be, and make it look cool? Was it the way that he got away with highly illegal shit and acted like nothing happened? Or was it his ability to turn certain emotions off and on in order to manipulate situations? Could it be the daddy issues that both of them had? Who knows.

Hailey and Jay found themselves in the break room, holding their coffees and quietly discussing what they were going to do with Voight. Ever since Hailey shot Anna, Hank hasn't really looked at her or spoken to her much. And when she died, Hank lost it. Started a one man patrol of her neighborhood to make sure to get rid of Los Temenos for good. Trying to make Anna's death mean something.

In the process, Hank was losing sight of the important things. He was taking unnecessary risks for the team and completely disregarding his own safety. Voight wasn't okay. Far from it.. but he was still in denial. And right now Jay was the only person getting through to him. He was filling that void in Hank's life where Alvin had been. Where Antonio had been. Even Lindsay. Those were the only three people that could truly reel Hank back in.

"Hank, you can't keep doing this. You're gona get yourself killed. I'm not gonna stand by and let that happen. I'm here because you need someone to reel you back in. I get it. It sucks that Anna died and you're blaming yourself. But you've got other people in this team depending on you to keep it together. Not just Hailey and I. So I'm asking you, man to man, what do you need me to do to help you?"

"Have a seat Jay. Have a drink with me." Hank says pulling two glasses from his desk and a bottle of scotch.

"Whatever you need man, I'm here for you." Jay says. "And in case you didn't realize it yet. Hailey thinks you hate her because she had to shoot Anna."

"I don't hate her." Hank says quietly from behind his glass. "I hate myself for putting Anna in that position. She felt trapped and she fell off the wagon. She was clearly on drugs that day when she started running. If anything Hailey saved my life that day. I don't hate her."

"She needs to hear that from you. She's been beating herself up for shooting Anna." Jay says taking a sip of his drink. "I kinda feel like I'm losing both of you right now."

"You haven't lost me. I'm just terrible at grieving when I lose people. Anna's death was definitely my fault. And I feel worse because her son has nobody now. I took away something he can never get back. I know what that is like. That's what Justin went through when he lost his mother. And things went downhill for Justin from there. I don't want that for Rafa."

"I think Rafa will be okay with his relatives." Jay says. "I think you should focus on healing up so you can get back to work. So you can focus more on work."

Hank nods. "I'll be fine Jay. I'm always fine even if I don't look fine. Tell Hailey I'll talk to her later after shift."

Later had come a lot sooner than any of them expected. Hank was downstairs in the basement with Hailey and Jay. "Look I talked to Jay earlier. I do not hate you Hailey. I hate myself for putting Ana into that corner. That was my fault. You saved my life out there. This one hit harder than any other no doubt and I'm not okay. But I will be eventually. I'm gonna focus on healing this shoulder and getting refocused on work. We can't let our personal shit effect work. That was the rule." Hank says.

"That wasn't the only issue here. Jay spends way more time catering to you and I'm the one married to him."

Hank chuckles. "Jay is just being a friend. You two have each other. I have no one Hailey. My son is gone. My grandson is gone. My wife is gone. Alvin is gone. Lindsay is gone too. I have no one I trust anymore. Jay I trust. I'm sorry."

"Hank I, " Hailey started to speak.

"I'm sorry for keeping your husband away from you. It's just that he's my only true friend right now." Hank says.