1-800-papaya - Tumblr blog

[1-800-papaya]

Query #1

Thinking about adding the 9-1-1 and 9-1-1: Lone star universe to my bookshelf.

[1-800-papaya]

Charming a Duchess

Benedict Bridgerton x Duchess Y/N

Author | I just want to say that this will not follow the books but instead reimage Benedict's love story in the future season four, this means that all events and characters from seasons 1 to 3 will be included. Once again i really do hope you guys love this story and idea for Benedict just as much as I do.

The early morning sun filtered through the towering oaks that lined the driveway of the grand estate of Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the Duchy of Argyll. A soft breeze carried the scent of heather and the distant murmur of the River Aray. Y/N Campbell, the newly titled Duchess of Argyll, stood at her bedroom window, gazing out at the rolling hills that had been her sanctuary for as long as she could remember.

“Y/N, dear, we must hurry,” her mother’s voice called from the hallway. “We cannot afford to delay the couch much more.”

Y/N turned from the window, her heart heavy with a mix of excitement and trepidation. London awaited them, a bustling metropolis full of promise and potential matches for her younger sisters. Charlotte and Dorothea were giddy with anticipation, their chatter filling the house with an infectious energy that even Y/N couldn’t resist.

“Yes, Mother, I’m coming,” Y/N replied, smoothing the skirts of her travel dress. She glanced at her reflection in the mirror, her emerald-green eyes reflecting the determination she felt. At five and twenty, she was content with her life, devoted to her family and her passion for the arts. Marriage was not something she sought for herself, but her siblings’ futures were her priority.

Downstairs, the household was a hive of activity. Trunks were being loaded onto the coach, servants bustled about, and her younger siblings were saying their goodbyes to the staff. Y/N’s mother, the Dowager Duchess, stood by the coach, her regal presence commanding respect. Despite the loss of her husband a mere year ago, she had managed the estate with grace and strength.

“Y/N, there you are,” the Dowager Duchess said, a warm smile lighting up her face. “Are you ready?”

Y/N nodded, returning the smile. “As ready as I’ll ever be, Mother.”

“Excellent. Now, where is that dog of yours?” Her mother’s tone was fondly exasperated.

As if on cue, Archie, Y/N’s beloved Gordon Setter, bounded into view, his dark coat gleaming in the sunlight. He circled Y/N’s legs, tail wagging furiously. She bent down to ruffle his ears. “Come on, Archie. London awaits.”

The journey to London was long but pleasant, the rolling countryside giving way to bustling towns and villages. Y/N and her sisters chatted excitedly, their laughter filling the coach. Charlotte, at nine and ten, was vibrant and full of life, her blue eyes sparkling with dreams of romance. Dorothea, just eight and ten, was quieter but equally excited, her gentle nature endearing her to everyone she met.

As they approached London, the landscape changed dramatically. The air grew thicker, the roads busier, and the buildings taller. Y/N’s heart quickened. London was a far cry from the serene beauty of Argyll, but it held a charm of its own.

Argyll House in London was a grand townhouse in Mayfair, elegantly furnished and ready to host the family. As they stepped out of the coach, Y/N took a deep breath, absorbing the bustling energy around her.

The following days were a whirlwind of introductions, parties, and social events. The marriage mart was in full swing, and Y/N’s sisters quickly became the darlings of the season. Y/N, though more reserved, found herself enjoying the vibrant arts scene in London. She visited galleries and attended musical performances, her passion for the arts rekindled with every new experience.

One evening, at a particularly grand ball hosted by the Bridgerton family, Y/N stood at the edge of the room, watching her sisters dance with eligible gentlemen. She felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing they were enjoying themselves.

As she observed the swirling colors and listened to the lively music, a voice interrupted her thoughts. “Miss Campbell, isn’t it?”

Y/N turned to find the handsome Benedict Bridgerton standing beside her, a charming smile on his face. He moved with a kind of effortless grace that drew attention wherever he went. Y/N had observed the second-born Bridgerton throughout the season. She had watched as he poked fun at his brother’s dopey lovesick similes as he danced with both his own and her sisters. Charlotte and Dorothea both expressed great joy at having the attention of the dashing Mr. Bridgerton. Though her mind did roll through many articles in Lady Whistledown that either showered the Bridgerton family with praise or cast a slight shadow over them. He intrigued her to great lengths.

“Duchess, actually,” Y/N corrected gently, offering a polite smile. “Y/N Campbell of Argyll.”

“Ah, my apologies, Duchess,” Benedict said, bowing slightly. “I’ve heard much about you and your family’s arrival. Your sisters seem to be enjoying the season.”

“They are indeed,” Y/N replied, glancing at her sisters. “It’s their first time in London, and they are making the most of it.”

“And you, Duchess? Are you finding London to your liking?” Benedict’s tone was genuinely curious.

Y/N hesitated, then nodded. “It’s different from what I’m used to, but it has its own charm. I’m particularly fond of the art scene here.”

Benedict’s eyes lit up with interest. “Is that so? I happen to share your passion for the arts. Perhaps we could visit a gallery together sometime?”

Y/N was taken aback by his forwardness, but there was something sincere in his eyes that made her smile. “I would like that, Mr. Bridgerton.”

“Please, call me Benedict,” he said, his smile widening.

“Very well, Benedict,” Y/N agreed. “And you may call me Y/N.”

[1-800-papaya]

Charming a Duchess

Benedict Bridgerton x Duchess Arabella Campbell of Argyll (OC)

Author | I just want to say that this will not follow the books but instead reimage Benedict's love story in the future season four, this means that all events and characters from seasons 1 to 3 will be included. Once again i really do hope you guys love this story and idea for Benedict just as much as I do.

The early morning sun filtered through the towering oaks that lined the driveway of the grand estate of Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the Duchy of Argyll. A soft breeze carried the scent of heather and the distant murmur of the River Aray. Arabella Campbell, the newly titled Duchess of Argyll, stood at her bedroom window, gazing out at the rolling hills that had been her sanctuary for as long as she could remember.

“Arabella, dear, we must hurry,” her mother’s voice called from the hallway. “We cannot afford to delay the couch much more.”

Arabella turned from the window, her heart heavy with a mix of excitement and trepidation. London awaited them, a bustling metropolis full of promise and potential matches for her younger sisters. Charlotte and Dorothea were giddy with anticipation, their chatter filling the house with an infectious energy that even Arabella couldn’t resist.

“Yes, Mother, I’m coming,” Arabella replied, smoothing the skirts of her travel dress. She glanced at her reflection in the mirror, her emerald-green eyes reflecting the determination she felt. At five and twenty, she was content with her life, devoted to her family and her passion for the arts. Marriage was not something she sought for herself, but her siblings’ futures were her priority.

Downstairs, the household was a hive of activity. Trunks were being loaded onto the coach, servants bustled about, and her younger siblings were saying their goodbyes to the staff. Arabella’s mother, the Dowager Duchess, stood by the coach, her regal presence commanding respect. Despite the loss of her husband a mere year ago, she had managed the estate with grace and strength.

“Arabella, there you are,” the Dowager Duchess said, a warm smile lighting up her face. “Are you ready?”

Arabella nodded, returning the smile. “As ready as I’ll ever be, Mother.”

“Excellent. Now, where is that dog of yours?” Her mother’s tone was fondly exasperated.

As if on cue, Archie, Arabella’s beloved Gordon Setter, bounded into view, his dark coat gleaming in the sunlight. He circled Arabella’s legs, tail wagging furiously. She bent down to ruffle his ears. “Come on, Archie. London awaits.”

The journey to London was long but pleasant, the rolling countryside giving way to bustling towns and villages. Arabella and her sisters chatted excitedly, their laughter filling the coach. Charlotte, at nine and ten, was vibrant and full of life, her blue eyes sparkling with dreams of romance. Dorothea, just eight and ten, was quieter but equally excited, her gentle nature endearing her to everyone she met.

As they approached London, the landscape changed dramatically. The air grew thicker, the roads busier, and the buildings taller. Arabella’s heart quickened. London was a far cry from the serene beauty of Argyll, but it held a charm of its own.

Argyll House in London was a grand townhouse in Mayfair, elegantly furnished and ready to host the family. As they stepped out of the coach, Arabella took a deep breath, absorbing the bustling energy around her.

The following days were a whirlwind of introductions, parties, and social events. The marriage mart was in full swing, and Arabella’s sisters quickly became the darlings of the season. Arabella, though more reserved, found herself enjoying the vibrant arts scene in London. She visited galleries and attended musical performances, her passion for the arts rekindled with every new experience.

One evening, at a particularly grand ball hosted by the Bridgerton family, Arabella stood at the edge of the room, watching her sisters dance with eligible gentlemen. She felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing they were enjoying themselves.

As she observed the swirling colors and listened to the lively music, a voice interrupted her thoughts. “Miss Campbell, isn’t it?”

Arabella turned to find the handsome Benedict Bridgerton standing beside her, a charming smile on his face. He moved with a kind of effortless grace that drew attention wherever he went. Arabella had observed the second-born Bridgerton throughout the season. She had watched as he poked fun at his brother’s dopey lovesick similes as he danced with both his own and her sisters. Charlotte and Dorothea both expressed great joy at having the attention of the dashing Mr. Bridgerton. Though her mind did roll through many articles in Lady Whistledown that either showered the Bridgerton family with praise or cast a slight shadow over them. He intrigued her to great lengths.

“Duchess, actually,” Arabella corrected gently, offering a polite smile. “Arabella Campbell of Argyll.”

“Ah, my apologies, Duchess,” Benedict said, bowing slightly. “I’ve heard much about you and your family’s arrival. Your sisters seem to be enjoying the season.”

“They are indeed,” Arabella replied, glancing at her sisters. “It’s their first time in London, and they are making the most of it.”

“And you, Duchess? Are you finding London to your liking?” Benedict’s tone was genuinely curious.

Arabella hesitated, then nodded. “It’s different from what I’m used to, but it has its own charm. I’m particularly fond of the art scene here.”

Benedict’s eyes lit up with interest. “Is that so? I happen to share your passion for the arts. Perhaps we could visit a gallery together sometime?”

Arabella was taken aback by his forwardness, but there was something sincere in his eyes that made her smile. “I would like that, Mr. Bridgerton.”

“Please, call me Benedict,” he said, his smile widening.

“Very well, Benedict,” Arabella agreed. “And you may call me Arabella.”

[1-800-papaya]

Hello, I started reading your fics recently and I really liked your writing. I don't know if you're accepting requests, but if you are, you could do a story in which Jay Halstead is married and ends up finding out that his wife is Hank Voight's daughter. Detail, she is the twin daughter that Hank thought had been born dead.

Hi lovely,

First of all, I love this idea. I hope you don't mind, but I have weaved it into my current Jay Halstead story thread. I haven't written angst in a while, so I really enjoyed writing this. I do hope you like it. As always, I wrote a reader-insert version of this part.

Original Character: Not so Southern Reader-insert: Not so Southern

[1-800-papaya]

Not so southern

Jay Halstead x Baker!Reader Warnings: Mentions of death and loss of parent

A Letter. A deathbed confession. It wasn’t something Y/N had ever expected a mere month after the death of her mother. She’d barely returned to Chicago after the funeral, barely returned to the cafe; she’d barely returned to Jay.

The open letter lay still on the table of the couple’s home. Y/N sat frozen, her eyes locked on the carefully written words floating in a river of unanswered questions in her mind. Her mother truly knew she had to leave an impression. But could she call the woman who had raised her her mother? Was it right to attach that title to a woman who had kept a life-altering secret from her? It was sitting at the table, her mind reeling that her newly minted husband found her later that afternoon.

Jay groaned as he dragged his tired body. The day didn’t seem to end, and a tough case was always twisting and evolving into something ugly and demented. When, Voight had finally allowed his detectives to leave and gather their strength, Jay had all but leapt from his desk and rushed out of the district. Though his partner’s tired, teasing smiles didn’t escape his eyes. The routine that had developed over the last two years wasn’t something Jay enjoyed breaking, but the light and warmth he longed for was not dusted in powder sugar or smeared in chocolate behind a counter.

The small two-story home’s door never felt so heavy as when the day dragged on like an endless tunnel. Jay could tell straight away that something was wrong. The house was cold and still. The only movement was Luna slinking to greet him. While Jay loved Y/N’s two furballs, Milo grated Jay’s last nerve most days; Luna and her subdued personality were more his speed. There was no warm feeling that filled each visitor; no delicious gooey chocolate smell filled the air.

“Hi Lu, do you know what’s going on? Hmm, Sunshine?” no response. Jay’s nerves grew. He knew she was home; her precious bronco was sitting in the driveway. Jay wondered aimlessly through the house before finding his loving wife sitting still like a stone statue.

“Y/N/N, love”, Jay’s voice was soft as he gently approached the young woman. Kneeling beside her, Jay watched as she turned slowly, and his concern grew when he noticed the rivers of silent tears that were running steadily down her cheeks. “What’s wrong”

Y/N didn’t trust her voice. Everything in her life felt like it was betraying her like it was wrong. Silently her shaking hand reached for the letter, a piece of paper that felt as heavy as concrete. She didn’t trust her wobbling voice to convey the news her ‘mother’ was telling her from beyond the grave. She looked away as reality started to sink in and her sobs became audible, breaking her husbands heart as he read his late mother-in-laws words.

Dear Y/N, I know now that my days are numbered, and I can feel life leaving me as my strength drains more each day. As such, I have a secret, my dear, that I feel I need to tell you now. It is a secret I once told myself I would’ve told you by now, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do so. This is much harder than I thought. I hope you will forgive me for keeping such information from you, dear. You are adopted. Your father and I loved each other but could not have children. When we saw your little face, we fell in love. The orphanage was overrun and loud, yet you were sound content…so peaceful. Now, I know this is quite shocking, and we may never be given the opportunity to talk, given my health. But I want you to continue to be yourself, darling. Do not let this change you. I saw how happy you are with Jay. Mary has shown me a lot of photos you sent of your wedding. I know you may have questions, so I have spent my recent spike in free time doing the work for you. Your original birth certificate will be sent alongside this letter. I do hope we see each other again before I leave, but if we do not, please do not linger too much on this information. You have quite a life ahead of you with Jay, live it, if not for me dear, but for yourself. Love Mum

Jay instinctively reached for the other piece of paper sitting neatly on the table—a birth certificate—an Illinois birth certificate. His eyes scanned the document. Shock filled his very being when he fully registered the names written in the father and mother of child boxes. Camille and Hank Voight. His wife was the daughter of his boss. Within seconds, his eyes flickered up, and his body moved quicker than his thoughts. Wrapping his arms loving and tightly around Y/N, Jay offered comfort and affection that she accepted without hesitation.

“I still love you, Sunshine”, Jay mumbled into his wife of barely two months’ hair. Y/N didn’t say a word, not that Jay needed a response. The house stayed still and silent for most of the night; she became numb and motionless as Jay moved about and eventually carried her to their bed, reassuring her that nothing between them had changed.

Tag List @smoothdogsgirl

[1-800-papaya]

Not so Southern

Jay Halstead x Baker!Cordelia Micheals Warnings: Mentions of Death and loss of parent

A Letter. A deathbed confession. It wasn’t something Cordelia had ever expected a mere month after the death of her mother. She’d barely returned to Chicago after the funeral, barely returned to the cafe; she’d barely returned to Jay.

The open letter lay still on the table of the couple’s home. Cordelia sat frozen, her eyes locked on the carefully written words floating in a river of unanswered questions in her mind. Her mother truly knew she had to leave an impression. But could she call the woman who had raised her her mother? Was it right to attach that title to a woman who had kept a life-altering secret from her? It was sitting at the table, her mind reeling that her newly minted husband found her later that afternoon.

Jay groaned as he dragged his tired body. The day didn’t seem to end, and a tough case was always twisting and evolving into something ugly and demented. When, Voight had finally allowed his detectives to leave and gather their strength, Jay had all but leapt from his desk and rushed out of the district. Though his partner’s tired, teasing smiles didn’t escape his eyes. The routine that had developed over the last two years wasn’t something Jay enjoyed breaking, but the light and warmth he longed for was not dusted in powder sugar or smeared in chocolate behind a counter.

The small two-story home’s door never felt so heavy as when the day dragged on like an endless tunnel. Jay could tell straight away that something was wrong. The house was cold and still. The only movement was Luna slinking to greet him. While Jay loved Cordelia’s two furballs, Milo grated Jay’s last nerve most days; Luna and her subdued personality were more his speed. There was no warm feeling that filled each visitor; no delicious gooey chocolate smell filled the air.

“Hi Lu, do you know what’s going on? Hmm, Sunshine?” no response. Jay’s nerves grew. He knew she was home; her precious bronco was sitting in the driveway. Jay wondered aimlessly through the house before finding his loving wife sitting still like a stone statue.

“Delia, love”, Jay’s voice was soft as he gently approached the young woman. Kneeling beside her, Jay watched as she turned slowly, and his concern grew when he noticed the rivers of silent tears that were running steadily down her cheeks. “What’s wrong”

Cordelia didn’t trust her voice. Everything in her life felt like it was betraying her like it was wrong. Silently her shaking hand reached for the letter, a piece of paper that felt as heavy as concrete. She didn’t trust her wobbling voice to convey the news her ‘mother’ was telling her from beyond the grave. She looked away as reality started to sink in and her sobs became audible, breaking her husbands heart as he read his late mother-in-laws words.

Dear Cordelia, I know now that my days are numbered, and I can feel life leaving me as my strength drains more each day. As such, I have a secret, my dear, that I feel I need to tell you now. It is a secret I once told myself I would’ve told you by now, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do so. This is much harder than I thought. I hope you will forgive me for keeping such information from you, dear. You are adopted. Your father and I loved each other but could not have children. When we saw your little face, we fell in love. The orphanage was overrun and loud, yet you were sound content…so peaceful. Now, I know this is quite shocking, and we may never be given the opportunity to talk, given my health. But I want you to continue to be yourself, darling. Do not let this change you. I saw how happy you are with Jay. Mary has shown me a lot of photos you sent of your wedding. I know you may have questions, so I have spent my recent spike in free time doing the work for you. Your original birth certificate will be sent alongside this letter. I do hope we see each other again before I leave, but if we do not, please do not linger too much on this information. You have quite a life ahead of you with Jay, live it, if not for me dear, but for yourself. Love Mum

Jay instinctively reached for the other piece of paper sitting neatly on the table—a birth certificate—an Illinois birth certificate. His eyes scanned the document. Shock filled his very being when he fully registered the names written in the father and mother of child boxes. Camille and Hank Voight. His wife was the daughter of his boss. Within seconds, his eyes flickered up, and his body moved quicker than his thoughts. Wrapping his arms loving and tightly around Cordelia, Jay offered comfort and affection that she accepted without hesitation.

“I still love you, Sunshine”, Jay mumbled into his wife of barely two months’ hair. Cordelia didn’t say a word, not that Jay needed a response. The house stayed still and silent for most of the night; Cordelia became numb and motionless as Jay moved about and eventually carried her to their bed, reassuring her that nothing between them had changed.

[1-800-papaya]

Southern Charm

Jay Halstead x Baker!Reader Warnings: None

Two weeks had passed since Jay’s first visit to Lemon Drops. Since then, it had become a regular stop in his morning routine. Volunteering for coffee runs when the one in the break room was conveniently broken, even finding himself out front of the cozy little shop on his day off. The more he visited, the more he saw his time in Y/N’s company as the highlight of his day, a ray of sunshine in the clouded sky of his mind. The warm environment of the cafe had quickly become his sanctuary, a place where he could unwind and enjoy a sense of normalcy away from the pressures of cases.

So when Adam sulked out of the break room and mumbled that the coffee machine was on the fritz, Jay practically jumped out of his chair. The case that had occupied the unit’s time for the past few hours was tricky and complicated; to say it was stressful was an understatement. After the others shouted their order, Jay bounced the three blocks to Lemon Drops. His phone buzzed in his hand as the familiar twinkle of the bell announced his arrival.

‘Don’t forget the Caramel Raspberry Kolache.’ Hailey.

The bakery’s cozy interior felt like a warm hug, welcoming him in from the Chicago winter. Jay’s eyes surveyed the crowded cafe, a habit he developed from being a ranger and cop. The mid-afternoon crowd was thin but still filled most of the room. A few students were huddled in the corner, blank screens probably filling a few with dread. The rest of the cafe was filled with elderly couples sharing tea and cakes. Jay waved slightly to Chelsea, who was standing at the register. Chelsea was one of the few college students that Y/N hired; Jay had become so much of a regular that he’d learnt their names. Chelsea and the other employees who helped with mid-day crowds learnt quickly that Y/N would handle Jay’s order.

After finishing a customer’s order, Chelsea poked her head through the kitchen door and called out to Y/N. With a bright smile, Y/N returned with a tray full of strawberry and cream cupcakes.

“Good morning, Jay! The usual?” she asked, her southern drawl as charming as ever.

“Morning, Y/N. Yeah, the usual. And Hailey is insistent on trying your Caramel Raspberry Pazcki’s,” Jay replied, leaning against the counter. Y/N chuckled as she moved behind the counter, seamlessly interacting with Chelsea. Y/N’s cabinets were consistently filled with brownies, cupcakes and her favorite treats from home. Recently, Jay noticed that more Chicago favorite treats with her own twist had found their way into the mix. Over the last few weeks, Jay had also become aware of just how close Hailey and the young Texan baker were, practically being badgered by Hailey for a treat from Y/N that he’d never seen in her cabinets.

“So, how’s your week been?” Y/N asked, her eyes locked on Jay but her hands working away, making the coffees. Jay smiled; his favorite part of his visit was the causal conversation that flowed between them.

“Busy, but nothing out of the ordinary. You? Business seems to be good”

“Yeah, it’s been good. Lots of new faces coming in,” Y/N said, a hint of pride in her voice. Jay chuckled.

“Well, you make the best coffee and treats in town.” Y/N blushed slightly and handed over the coffee and the usual box of treats, with Hailey’s in a separate bag.

“You’re too kind, Jay. But I’m glad you think so.”

“I’ll let you get back to work. Thanks for the coffee and Pazcki’s.”

“Anytime, Jay. Stay safe out there,” Y/N said, giving him a warm smile. Jay nodded and headed out, the tray balanced carefully in his hands, opening the door for an elderly couple as he left. As he dragged his feet the three blocks, He couldn’t shake the feeling that these brief moments with Y/N were becoming more than just a part of his routine.

***

Back at the precinct, Jay distributed the coffees to his teammates. Hailey gleefully took hers and the strawberry and cream Pazcki’s. A teasing smirk played on her lips as Jay sat at his desk.

“You’re in a good mood,” she remarked.

“Just needed the fresh air,” Jay said with a shrug, trying to play it cool.

“Uh-huh,” Hailey said, clearly not buying it. “So, how’s Y/N?”

“She’s good,” Jay replied, unable to hide his smile. “The bakery is doing well, though I regret telling Will and Kelly about it. ”

Hailey smirked. “You know, you should ask her out sometime. It’s clear you like her.” Jay felt his face heat up.

“It’s not like that. We’re just friends.”

“Sure, whatever you say,” Hailey said, sipping her coffee. “But you should think about it. Life’s too short not to take chances.”

“What’s this about taking chances?” Kevin spoke up from his place,e leaning on Hailey’s desk.

“Jay’s got a crush on the bakery owner,” Hailey said with a grin.

Atwater raised an eyebrow. “Oh? The one that makes all these delicious treats you’ve brought in every day this week.”

“To Jay and his bakery lady. May your pastries be sweet and your dates sweeter.” Kevin toasted, a devious smile directed at her partner.

“Knock it off,” Jay spoke, stifling a laugh, “It’s just coffee.”

“What’s going on?” Kim questioned as she and Adam trudged up the steps.

“Jay’s got a thing for the girl at Lemon Drops,” Kevin explained.

Kim’s eyes lit up. “Y/N? She’s so nice! You should ask her out, Jay.” Jay sighed, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the attention.

“Alright, alright. I’ll think about it.”

***

The sun had long since set by the time Jay found his feet carrying him to his truck. He had spent most of the afternoon lost in his thoughts. His co-worker’s words whirled around. Perhaps he should bite the metaphorical bullet or take that leap of faith. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn’t hear Kevin’s invite for drinks at Molly’s; instead, he found himself parked in front of Lemon Drops Cafe and Bakery. The neon sign glaring mockingly at him. He’d helped her install it a week ago. A chuckle filled the cab of his truck. Hailey would tease him relentlessly if she found out this was his second time visiting the unit’s new favorite establishment.

By now, the evening regulars had long since gone home, leaving Y/N with the first responders trickling in and out. Chelsea had gone home, something that Jay never quite felt okay with. The neighborhood surrounding where the cafe was situated was safe, but the thought of Y/N closing on her own late at night never felt right.

“I’ll be with you in a second,” Y/N’s voice called from the kitchen. Jay felt a slight sense of Deja-vu. When she finally appeared, she looked just the same as the first time Jay had stepped foot into her business. Chocolate brown curly hair was haphazardly thrown into a bun. Her white shirt was a stark white compared to the pale yellow apron she always wore; it must be new, thought Jay. Her apron was once again covered in white dashes of flour and smudges of frosting and chocolate. A flash of pleasant surprise crossed her soft features when she looked up to greet him.

“Oh Jay, Back so soon? Couldn’t stay away, huh?”

Jay chuckled. “I guess so. Got any more of those Pazcki’s.”

“Always,” Y/N said, already reaching for one. “Here you go.”

“Thanks,” Jay said, taking the sweat treat. As always, Jay stayed chatting with Y/N as she cleaned and prepped cookies and cupcake batter for the next day. The pair discussed many things as usual, from the recent chilly weather to Y/N’s two tabby cats. Before long, he found himself standing in between his truck and Y/N’s vintage yellow Bronco, watching as she locked the door.

“Well, I guess this is goodnight then, Detective.” He hesitated for a moment, then decided to take Hailey’s advice.

“Hey, Y/N, I was wondering… would you like to grab dinner sometime? Maybe this weekend?” Y/N’s eyes widened in surprise, and then her face broke into a bright smile.

“I’d love to, Jay. That sounds great.”

“Great,” Jay said, feeling relief and excitement. “Saturday at seven?”

“It’s a date,” Y/N said, her smile warm and inviting.

Tag list

@smoothdogsgirl

[1-800-papaya]

Southern Charm

Jay Halstead x Baker!Cordelia Michaels Warnings: None

Author Note: It's been a while, but here it is finally—part two of what I thought was only going to be a one-shot. I hope you guys continue to love these characters as much as I have loved writing them.

Two weeks had passed since Jay’s first visit to Lemon Drops. Since then, it had become a regular stop in his morning routine. Volunteering for coffee runs when the one in the break room was conveniently broken, even finding himself out front of the cozy little shop on his day off. The more he visited, the more he saw his time in Cordelia’s company as the highlight of his day, a ray of sunshine in the clouded sky of his mind. The warm environment of the cafe had quickly become his sanctuary, a place where he could unwind and enjoy a sense of normalcy away from the pressures of cases.

So when Adam sulked out of the break room and mumbled that the coffee machine was on the fritz, Jay practically jumped out of his chair. The case that had occupied the unit’s time for the past few hours was tricky and complicated; to say it was stressful was an understatement. After the others shouted their order, Jay bounced the three blocks to Lemon Drops. His phone buzzed in his hand as the familiar twinkle of the bell announced his arrival.

‘Don’t forget the Caramel Raspberry Kolache.’ Hailey. The bakery’s cozy interior felt like a warm hug, welcoming him in from the Chicago winter. Jay’s eyes surveyed the crowded cafe, a habit he developed from being a ranger and cop. The mid-afternoon crowd was thin but still filled most of the room. A few students were huddled in the corner, blank screens probably filling a few with dread. The rest of the cafe was filled with elderly couples sharing tea and cakes. Jay waved slightly to Chelsea, who was standing at the register. Chelsea was one of the few college students that Cordelia hired; Jay had become so much of a regular that he’d learnt their names. Chelsea and the other employees who helped with mid-day crowds learnt quickly that Cordelia would handle Jay’s order.

After finishing a customer’s order, Chelsea poked her head through the kitchen door and called out to Cordelia. With a bright smile, Cordelia returned with a tray full of strawberry and cream cupcakes.

“Good morning, Jay! The usual?” she asked, her southern drawl as charming as ever.

“Morning, Cordelia. Yeah, the usual. And Hailey is insistent on trying your Caramel Raspberry Pazcki’s,” Jay replied, leaning against the counter. Cordelia chuckled as she moved behind the counter, seamlessly interacting with Chelsea. Cordelia’s cabinets were consistently filled with brownies, cupcakes and her favorite treats from home. Recently, Jay noticed that more Chicago favorite treats with her own twist had found their way into the mix. Over the last few weeks, Jay had also become aware of just how close Hailey and the young Texan baker were, practically being badgered by Hailey for a treat from Cordelia that he’d never seen in her cabinets.

“So, how’s your week been?” Cordelia asked, her eyes locked on Jay but her hands working away, making the coffees. Jay smiled; his favorite part of his visit was the causal conversation that flowed between them.

“Busy, but nothing out of the ordinary. You? Business seems to be good”

“Yeah, it’s been good. Lots of new faces coming in,” Cordelia said, a hint of pride in her voice.

Jay chuckled. “Well, you make the best coffee and treats in town.”

Cordelia blushed slightly and handed over the coffee and the usual box of treats, with Hailey’s in a separate bag. “You’re too kind, Jay. But I’m glad you think so.”

“I’ll let you get back to work. Thanks for the coffee and Pazcki’s.”

“Anytime, Jay. Stay safe out there,” Cordelia said, giving him a warm smile.

Jay nodded and headed out, the tray balanced carefully in his hands, opening the door for an elderly couple as he left. As he dragged his feet the three blocks, He couldn’t shake the feeling that these brief moments with Cordelia were becoming more than just a part of his routine.

*** Back at the precinct, Jay distributed the coffees to his teammates. Hailey gleefully took hers and the strawberry and cream Pazcki’s. A teasing smirk played on her lips as Jay sat at his desk.

“You’re in a good mood,” she remarked.

“Just needed the fresh air,” Jay said with a shrug, trying to play it cool.

“Uh-huh,” Hailey said, clearly not buying it. “So, how’s Cordelia?” “She’s good,” Jay replied, unable to hide his smile. “The bakery is doing well, though I regret telling Will and Kelly about it. ”

Hailey smirked. “You know, you should ask her out sometime. It’s clear you like her.”

Jay felt his face heat up. “It’s not like that. We’re just friends.”

“Sure, whatever you say,” Hailey said, sipping her coffee. “But you should think about it. Life’s too short not to take chances.”

“What’s this about taking chances?” Kevin spoke up from his place,e leaning on Hailey’s desk and sipping on his coffee.

“Jay’s got a crush on the bakery owner,” Hailey said with a grin. Kevin raised an eyebrow.

“Oh? The one that makes all these delicious treats you’ve brought in every day this week.”

“To Jay and his bakery lady. May your pastries be sweet and your dates sweeter.” Kevin mockingly toasted, a devious smile directed at his friend.

“Knock it off,” Jay spoke, stifling a laugh, “It’s just coffee.”

“What’s going on?” Kim questioned as she and Adam trudged up the steps.

“Jay’s got a thing for the girl at Lemon Drops,” Kevin explained.

Kim’s eyes lit up. “Cordelia? She’s so nice! You should ask her out, Jay.”

Jay sighed, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the attention. “Alright, alright. I’ll think about it.”

*** The sun had long since set by the time Jay found his feet carrying him to his truck. He had spent most of the afternoon lost in his thoughts. His co-worker’s words whirled around. Perhaps he should bite the metaphorical bullet or take that leap of faith. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn’t hear Kevin’s invite for drinks at Molly’s; instead, he found himself parked in front of Lemon Drops Cafe and Bakery. The neon sign glaring mockingly at him. He’d helped her install it a week ago. A chuckle filled the cab of his truck. Hailey would tease him relentlessly if she found out this was his second time visiting the unit’s new favorite establishment.

By now, the evening regulars had long since gone home, leaving Cordelia with the first responders trickling in and out. Chelsea had gone home, something that Jay never quite felt okay with. The neighborhood surrounding the neighborhood where the cafe was situated was safe, but the thought of Cordelia closing on her own late at night never felt right.

“I’ll be with you in a second,” Cordelia’s voice called from the kitchen. Jay felt a slight sense of Deja-vu. When she finally appeared, she looked just the same as the first time Jay had stepped foot into her business. Chocolate brown curly hair haphazardly thrown into a bun. Her white shirt was a stark white compared to the pale yellow apron she always wore; it must be new, thought Jay. Her apron was once again covered in white dashes of flour and smudges of frosting and chocolate. A flash of pleasant surprise crossed her soft features when she looked up to greet him. “Oh Jay, Back so soon? Couldn’t stay away, huh?”

Jay chuckled. “I guess not. Got any more of those Pazcki’s.”

“Always,” Cordelia said, already reaching for one. “Here you go.”

“Thanks,” Jay said, taking the sweat treat. Jay chatted with Cordelia as she cleaned and prepped cookies and cupcake batter for the next day. The pair discussed many things as usual, from the recent chilly weather to Cordelia’s two tabby cats. Before long, he found himself standing in between his truck and Cordelia’s vintage yellow Bronco, watching as she locked the door.

“Well, I guess this is goodnight then, Detective.”

He hesitated for a moment, then decided to take Hailey’s advice. “Hey, Cordelia, I was wondering… would you like to grab dinner sometime? Maybe this weekend?”

Cordelia’s eyes widened in surprise, and then her face broke into a bright smile. “I’d love to, Jay. That sounds great.”

“Great,” Jay said, feeling relief and excitement. “Saturday at seven?”

“It’s a date,” Cordelia said, her smile warm and inviting.

[1-800-papaya]

Cowgirls Don't Cry

Cordell Walker x Sister!Reader Warnings: Mentions of death and grief, but mostly fluff and emotional conversations.

There’s this feeling when the glue dies, when it becomes clear that someone important and special dies and the mark, they left of the rest of the family becomes clear. That feeling permeated every aspect of life and everybody dealt with the grief in different ways. Maggie threw herself head long into her work, she tended to the horses in the stables all hours of the day and night. Her brother Cordell left and fell into a dark hole; Liam became the glue and voice of reason. That was until Liam proposed the idea of him filing for custody of Stella and August, that broke Maggie’s hold on all that was sane.

The room was still as Liam’s proposal sank in, his words shaking Maggie’s resolve as she tired her best not to lash out. As much as she wanted to reach across the table and punch her brother in the face, she couldn’t do it, not in front of the kids.

“How dare you,” Maggie seethed, her face not hiding the anger she held for her brother in that moment. The rest of the walker family simply stared at the young brunette women as she uncharacteristically fought with the middle Walker sibling.

“What do you mean, Stella and Auggie need stability and a Cordell isn’t here to do it so why not” Liam spoke, trying to reason with his little sister. While normally the only daughter of Abeline and Bonham Walker would join her brother in being the voice of reason in the family, today it seemed Liam’s words were the straw that broke the camels back.

“Don’t talk like he’s gone, Cords not gone like that” Maggie chastised her brother trying desperately to not raise her voice in front of Stella and August, but she couldn’t help it. In her mind, Liam’s suggestion was him talking like Cordell was dead and the family needed to move on.

“Maggie, Your brother isn’t suggesting anything,” Abeline tired to sooth her only daughter’s rage. “Not in front of the kids” she urged her child.

“No Momma, He’s…He’s talking as Cord’s never coming back” Maggie said teary eyed. While Maggie always told people that she loved both her brothers equally, something about Emily’s death and Cordell leaving that in this moment she despised Liam.

“Y/N Y/M/N Walker” Bonham’s firm voice cut harshly though the impending fight. Maggie looked at her father in teary silence. Without another word Maggie left the room, the house and escaped to the only place she’d ever felt at peace, the stables.

Liam found his sister sniffing away and rubbing her eyes with her head in her hands, tucked away in the corner of an empty stall. She had dug up a blanket the siblings had kept in the barn for moments just like this. Stepping into the stall, Liam sat down pulling his sister in his arms.

“I’m sorry, we all miss him you know” Liam spoke into his sister’s hair as sobs racked through her. Her walls crumbling as she was enveloped in the safety of her brother’s arms. While she might have hated Liam for his suggestion, the comfort she felt in his arms was something she was craving as her emotions got the best of her. The siblings sat there in the silent night, Liam letting Maggie cry.

“Frist Emily and now Cordi, I don’t know if I can do it any more Liam”.

“You’re not alone Rae”.

“Is he dead?” While her question was not out of the realm of possibility, the fact that his teary-eyed sister had timidly asked it anyway shook Liam a little. Liam didn’t respond for a minute; he didn’t know what to say to console her. In the end Liam only whispered a simple ‘no’, causing a new, fresh wave of tears to flood down her blotchy cheeks.

For the following months Liam regularly checked in with his sister and soon persuaded her to talk to someone. While Maggie still threw herself into her work, her conversations with Dr Levitt helped her redirect her pain and loss into healing via her interactions with her family. Maggie invested deeply into both Stella and August’s life and schooling, she encouraged both teens to came and talk to her when they needed or no one else would listen, Aunty Maggie would listen. The Walker family learned to move forward, to understand their feelings relating to Emily’s death, even with the dark cloud of Cordell’s absence looming over them. Y/N never wanted to take Emily’s place as the family’s glue, but when a void appears in the family, someone must fill this important role.

When Cordell returned it was like the last few months never happened. The moment Maggie laid eyes on her brother, and she saw the worn look in his eyes, the stone walls and supports she’d built crumbled within seconds. She became distant once again, throwing herself into her work on the ranch once again.

***

The sun was slowly rising over the family ranch when Cordell drove back up the drive. His brain foggy with memories of Emily. The ranch was quiet, at this time in the morning, he didn’t think a single soul would be up yet. Then he saw Maggie walk across the yard and towards the stables. Even from this distance, Cordell could see the sag in her shoulders and the sluggishness in her walk. Sat in his truck a little longer and watched as a small smile graced his sisters’ lips when she opened the stable doors and greeted the horses housed within. Later, when he entered the family kitchen, his sister was notably absent.

“Morn’ Mamma,” Cordell greeted Abeline Walker, embracing her and kissing her head.

“Morning Darling” Abeline gestured to the pot of coffee on the counter and flipped the pancakes.

“Where’s Nolia?”

“Probably out with the horses, why don’t you go rangle her in for breakfast” His mother asked as Cordell downed his first coffee of the day. Cordell merely nodded and ventured out to the stables. The family’s large stables oak doors were swung wide open, and Cordell could see his sister tending to an young Tennessee walker colt.

“He’s new” Quipped the Texas ranger.

“Yeah, Daddy and I found him injured wondering the Davison’s old land” Maggie answered absentmindedly, stroking the nose of the chestnut-coloured colt.

“What’s his name” By now Cordell was leaning against the door to the colt’s stall.

“Cordi”

“You missed me that much huh”.

“Yeah, I guess mamma sent you” Maggie quipped turning to her brother, Cordell once again merely nodded in response, “You want to see something”. Cordell raised his eyebrows in query, Maggie mentioned for him to follow her. The pair walked further down the stables.

“You remember Pop tart the Appaloosa mare daddy got me for my birthday a few years ago,” Cordell hummed, that horse had been Y/N’s pride and joy, she rode the mare any chance she could come rain or shine, “Well a few months ago she had a filly”.

Maggie leant against a new stall, this one was occupied by a large white and grey speckled appaloosa and a smaller almost identical filly. “I couldn’t help myself and named her Emily”.

Cordell watched as the small filly crossed the stall and left the comfort zone of her mother. Reaching his hand into the stall, the filly gave a tentative sniff. Maggie nudged her brother’s arm and handed him a small carrot, which he offered to the foal. Emily excitably munched on the treat before pushing her head into Cordell’s hand once more, searching for more carrots.

“Why Emily,”

“She was born a week after you left, everyone was so lost, when daddy asked me what we should call her, Emily was the only name I could think of. The kids seemed to brighten up a little when I told them her name. Stella even helped me tend to her those first few months” She answered as she refilled the feed and water buckets in the stall.

Weeks past before Cordell got the courage to talk to his little sister again, this time he came armed with the knowledge of Liam betrayal and how defensive the young women had gotten. Once again, he found her tending to the horses in the barn.

“Maggie” Came Cordell’s voice, laced with an unusual mix of uncertainty and confidence for the Texas ranger. The women in question simply hummed in acknowledgement as she brushes the stallion’s coat. “I know what Liam did”

The barn remained silent; it was as if the few months that Cordell had been undercover were a period that his sister mere wished to forget now that he has come home.

“We were all grieving Em’s death and then your disappearing act really rocked to boat” Y/N’s voice was soft as her hand stilled, Adonis – the stallion maggie was tending to whined slightly at the lack of attention. “Then Liam suggested petitioning for custody of the kids, i…I just couldn’t believe he even thought about it…to me it felt like he thought you were never coming back and…I…I thought he was suggesting y…you…were…dead” She stuttered around her tears. Cordell didn’t respond both his brother and Stella had recounted the pain and anger in the usually soft and understanding women when Liam brought up his idea at family dinner. Instead, he simply stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Y/N.

“I know, thank you for defending me”.

“Always”

“Now,” Cordell said after separating from the hug and clasping his hands together, “Whatever Momma is cooking smells absolutely amazing” Y/N smiled and followed her brother back into the family home, linked at the elbows like they use to do as kids.

Abeline’s smile grew when she saw her children walk into the kitchen, Y/N giggling loudly, seemingly at something Cordell had said. For their mother, it sparked joy to see her baby girl smile a genuine smile, something that hadn’t graced her lips since the family received the news of Emily’s death. She hoped and prayed that night that the smile on Y/N’s lips never had to leave ever again.

[1-800-papaya]

Major blog update

I decided to make reader-insert versions of my posts for those who like reading reader-inserts. I will endeavour to post the reader-insert versions of my stories on the same day as the OC versions. To access them, you can find the reader-insert master list linked in my pinned master list. So stay tuned every Sunday for a new post.

[1-800-papaya]

Reader-insert Masterlist

Fluff 😊| Smut 😳| angst 🥺| One-shot 1️⃣| Series ♾️|🟢= completed | 🟡= In Progress | 🔴= On Hold

Author note | I want to acknowledge that I don't own any characters or lore mentioned in my stories except my original characters. Also, feel free to send me concerns or issues with my stories, master list, or anything.

Bookshelf

Jason Todd

Dean Winchester

Jay Halstead

Southern Caffeine 😊🟢 Southern Charm 😊🟢 Not So Southern 🥺🟢

Bucky Barnes

Benedict Bridgerton

Charming a Duchess 😊🟢

Evan Buckley

Matteo Riddle

Other

Cowgirls Don't Cry 😊🥺1️⃣🟢

[1-800-papaya]

Southern Caffeine (RI)

Jay Halstead x Baker!Reader Warnings: None i think

Author note: As always, feedback is greatly appreciated

Lemon Drops Cafe and Bakery. Big bright yellow and white letters read, and slight lemon decals surrounded the sign. Jay checked his phone before entering the shop; Hailey had insisted that the ex-army ranger get the morning coffee from the new bakery since the one in the break room was utterly broken. Pushing the glass door open, a light twinkle of a bell announced Jay’s presence. A head popped through the doorway that seemed to lead to the kitchens.

“I’ll be with you in a second.” A southern drawl stunned Jay.

The inside of the bakery was just as cozy as the exterior. Clusters of yellow chairs were pushed into three wooden tables, each bearing a yellow and white lemon tablecloth and varying-sized pillow. Along the opposite wall rests a series of tall displays, most filled with either what smelt like fresh loaves or display cakes. Turning more towards the counter, Jay noticed that in between the large coffee machine and the small portion of the counter dedicated to the register was a large display cupboard partially filled with cookies, cupcakes and some savory treats. Along the wall behind the counter, Jay could see an assortment of coffee bean bags that looked like they had yet to be packed away in the above cupboard and potted plants. The bakery overwhelmingly filled Jay with a sense of calm, and he loved the welcoming, cozy, homely environment that Hailey had sent him into.

A young woman soon walked out of the kitchen doorway and greeted Jay warmly. Her Y/H/C was haphazardly thrown into a bun, and a yellow ribbon wrapped around the tie. She wore a white short-sleeved shirt beneath a pale yellow apron and chocolate brown pants. Her apron was covered in white dashes of flour and smudges of frosting and chocolate. The pin on her apron read Y/N, a sticker of a small bundle of lemons decorating the rest of the pin. When Jay’s eyes reached her face, he took note of the imperfect splash of flour that dusted her cheeks and the bright smile that graced her features.

“Good Morning. What can I get ya?” Her voice was perfectly airy and sweet, like the melody of his favorite song. For once, the voice wasn’t dull or uninterested; instead, it sounded like she genuinely wanted to be covered in flour dust and chocolate smudges at nearly 6:30 in the morning.

“Four large double shot coffees and Hailey Upton’s usual.” He recited the order that Hailey had given him only ten minutes earlier. Jay moved to open his wallet to pay when Y/N simply shook her head.

“No need to pay, it’s on the house.” Her smile was blinding as she moved further down to the coffee machine, Jay following.

“At least let me tip you or something”, Jay argued as the women moved expertly around the small area, quickly making the coffee’s and packing a small box full of freshly baked treats.

“Please, this is the least I can do for you guys”, she spoke, “Besides, that would be breaking my own rules” " she said, pointing towards the large poster plastered above the register. Jay followed her finger and shook his head as he read the sign.

‘Cops, Firefighters, Doctors and Nurses, drinks and treats are on the house, No exceptions!!’

“My dad was a ranger and taught me the value of first responders, so when I started my business, I made it a rule that those who protect us, normal people, from our stupidity would never have to pay. Plus, I make enough profit to cover it anyway.” As she pushed the box and cup tray towards Jay, she gestured to the jar on the counter next to the register, “But if your conscience won’t let you leave without leaving a tip, then here, donate to this month’s charity, the Chicago police fund” Jay practically swooned over her smile this time. pushing a few large bills into the jar, Jay left the cafe with a dopey smile and a mental promise never to get coffee anywhere else.

[1-800-papaya]

Southern Caffeine

Jay Halstead x Baker!Cordelia Micheals (OC) Warnings: None i think

Author note: As always, feedback is greatly appreciated

Lemon Drops Cafe and Bakery. Big bright yellow and white letters read, and slight lemon decals surrounded the sign. Jay checked his phone before entering the shop; Hailey had insisted that the ex-army ranger get the morning coffee from the new bakery since the one in the break room was utterly broken. Pushing the glass door open, a light twinkle of a bell announced Jay’s presence. A head popped through the doorway that seemed to lead to the kitchens.

“I’ll be with you in a second.” A southern drawl stunned Jay.

The inside of the bakery was just as cozy as the exterior. Clusters of yellow chairs were pushed into three wooden tables, each bearing a yellow and white lemon tablecloth and varying-sized pillow. Along the opposite wall rests a series of tall displays, most filled with either what smelt like fresh loaves or display cakes. Turning more towards the counter, Jay noticed that in between the large coffee machine and the small portion of the counter dedicated to the register was a large display cupboard partially filled with cookies, cupcakes and some savory treats. Along the wall behind the counter, Jay could see an assortment of coffee bean bags that looked like they had yet to be packed away in the above cupboard and potted plants. The bakery overwhelmingly filled Jay with a sense of calm, and he loved the welcoming, cozy, homely environment that Hailey had sent him into.

A young woman soon walked out of the kitchen doorway and greeted Jay warmly. Her Chocolate brown curly hair was haphazardly thrown into a bun, and a yellow ribbon wrapped around the tie. She wore a white short-sleeved shirt beneath a pale yellow apron and chocolate brown pants. Her apron was covered in white dashes of flour and smudges of frosting and chocolate. The pin on her apron read Cordelia, a sticker of a small bundle of lemons decorating the rest of the pin. When Jay’s eyes reached her face, he took note of the imperfect splash of flour that dusted her cheeks and the bright smile that graced her features.

“Good Morning. What can I get ya?” Her voice was perfectly airy and sweet, like the melody of his favourite song. For once, the voice wasn't dull or uninterested; instead, it sounded like she genuinely wanted to be covered in flour dust and chocolate smudges at nearly 6:30 in the morning.

“Four large double shot coffees and Hailey Uptons usual.” He recited the order that Hailey had given him only ten minutes earlier. Jay moved to open his wallet to pay when Cordelia simply shook her head.

“No need to pay, it's on the house.” Her smile was blinding as she moved further down to the coffee machine, Jay following.

“At least let me tip you or something”, Jay argued as the women moved expertly around the small area, quickly making the coffee’s and packing a small box full of freshly baked treats.

“Please, this is the least I can do for you guys”, she spoke, “Besides, that would be breaking my own rules” " she said, pointing towards the large poster plastered above the register. Jay followed her finger and shook his head as he read the sign.

‘Cops, Firefighters, Doctors and Nurses, drinks and treats are on the house, No exceptions!!’

“My dad was a ranger and taught me the value of first responders, so when I started my business, I made it a rule that those who protect us, normal people, from our stupidity would never have to pay. Plus, I make enough profit to cover it anyway.” As she pushed the box and cup tray towards Jay, she gestured to the jar on the counter next to the register, “But if your conscience won't let you leave without leaving a tip, then here, donate to this month's charity, the Chicago police fund” Jay practically swooned over her smile this time. pushing a few large bills into the jar, Jay left the cafe with a dopey smile and a mental promise never to get coffee anywhere else.

[1-800-papaya]

Cowgirls Don't Cry

Cordell Walker x Sister!Magnolia Rae Walker (OC) Warnings: Mentions of death and grief, but mostly fluff and emotional conversations.

Author note | This is very rough in terms of editing, and any and all types of feedback is greatly appreciated.

There’s this feeling when the glue dies, when it becomes clear that someone important and special dies and the mark, they left of the rest of the family becomes clear. That feeling permeated every aspect of life and everybody dealt with the grief in different ways. Maggie threw herself head long into her work, she tended to the horses in the stables all hours of the day and night. Her brother Cordell left and fell into a dark hole, Liam became the glue and voice of reason. That was until Liam proposed the idea of him filing for custody of Stella and August, that broke Maggie’s hold on all that was sane.

***

The room was still as Liam’s proposal sank in, his words shaking Maggie’s resolve as she tired her best not to lash out. As much as she wanted to reach across the table and punch her brother in the face, she couldn’t do it, not in front of the kids.

“How dare you,” Maggie seethed, her face not hiding the anger she held for her brother in that moment. The rest of the walker family simply stared at the young brunette women as she uncharacteristically fought with the middle Walker sibling.

“What do you mean, Stella and Auggie need stability and a Cordell isn’t here to do it so why not” Liam spoke, trying to reason with his little sister. While normally the only daughter of Abeline and Bonham Walker would join her brother in being the voice of reason in the family, today it seemed Liam’s words were the straw that broke the camels back.

“Don’t talk like he’s gone, Cords not gone like that” Maggie chastised her brother trying desperately to not raise her voice in front of Stella and August, but she couldn’t help it. In her mind, Liam’s suggestion was him talking like Cordell was dead and the family needed to move on.

“Maggie, Your brother isn’t suggesting anything,” Abeline tired to sooth her only daughter’s rage. “Not in front of the kids” she urged her child.

“No Momma, He’s…He’s talking as Cord’s never coming back” Maggie said teary eyed. While Maggie always told people that she loved both her brothers equally, something about Emily’s death and Cordell leaving that in this moment she despised Liam.

“Magnolia Rae Walker” Bonham’s firm voice cut harshly though the impending fight. Maggie looked at her father in teary silence. Without another word Maggie left the room, the house and escaped to the only place she’d ever felt at peace, the stables.

Liam found his sister sniffing away and rubbing her eyes with her head in her hands, tucked away in the corner of an empty stall. She had dug up a blanket the siblings had kept in the barn for moments just like this. Stepping into the stall, Liam sat down pulling his sister in his arms.

“I’m sorry, we all miss him you know” Liam spoke into his sister’s hair as sobs racked through her. Her walls crumbling as she was enveloped in the safety of her brother’s arms. While she might have hated Liam for his suggestion, the comfort she felt in his arms was something she was craving as her emotions got the best of her. The siblings sat there in the silent night, Liam letting Maggie cry.

“Frist Emily and now Cordi, I don’t know if I can do it any more Liam”.

“You’re not alone Rae”.

“Is he dead?” While her question was not out of the realm of possibility, the fact that his teary-eyed sister had timidly asked it anyway shook Liam a little. Liam didn’t respond for a minute; he didn’t know what to say to console her. In the end Liam only whispered a simple ‘no’, causing a new, fresh wave of tears to flood down her blotchy cheeks.

For the following months Liam regularly checked in with his sister and soon persuaded her to talk to someone. While Maggie still threw herself into her work, her conversations with Dr Levitt helped her redirect her pain and loss into healing via her interactions with her family. Maggie invested deeply into both Stella and August’s life and schooling, she encouraged both teens to came and talk to her when they needed or no one else would listen, Aunty Maggie would listen. The Walker family learned to move forward, to understand their feelings relating to Emily’s death, even with the dark cloud of Cordell’s absence looming over them. Magnolia never wanted to take Emily’s place as the family’s glue, but when a void appears in the family, someone must fill this important role.

When Cordell returned it was like the last few months never happened. The moment Maggie laid eyes on her brother, and she saw the worn look in his eyes, the stone walls and supports she’d built crumbled within seconds. She became distant once again, throwing herself into her work on the ranch once again.

***

The sun was slowly rising over the family ranch when Cordell drove back up the drive. His brain foggy with memories of Emily. The ranch was quiet, at this time in the morning, he didn’t think a single soul would be up yet. Then he saw Maggie walk across the yard and towards the stables. Even from this distance, Cordell could see the sag in her shoulders and the sluggishness in her walk. Sat in his truck a little longer and watched as a small smile graced his sisters’ lips when she opened the stable doors and greeted the horses housed within. Later, when he entered the family kitchen, his sister was notably absent.

“Morn’ Mamma,” Cordell greeted Abeline Walker, embracing her and kissing her head.

“Morning Darling” Abeline gestured to the pot of coffee on the counter and flipped the pancakes.

“Where’s Nolia?”

“Probably out with the horses, why don’t you go rangle her in for breakfast” His mother asked as Cordell downed his first coffee of the day. Cordell merely nodded and ventured out to the stables. The family’s large stables oak doors were swung wide open, and Cordell could see his sister tending to an young Tennessee walker colt.

“He’s new” Quipped the Texas ranger.

“Yeah, Daddy and I found him injured wondering the Davison’s old land” Maggie answered absentmindedly, stroking the nose of the chestnut-coloured colt.

“What’s his name” By now Cordell was leaning against the door to the colt’s stall.

“Cordi”

“You missed me that much huh”.

“Yeah, I guess mamma sent you” Maggie quipped turning to her brother, Cordell once again merely nodded in response, “You want to see something”. Cordell raised his eyebrows in query, Maggie mentioned for him to follow her. The pair walked further down the stables.

“You remember Pop tart the Appaloosa mare daddy got me for my birthday a few years ago,” Cordell hummed, that horse had been Magnolia’s pride and joy, she rode the mare any chance she could come rain or shine, “Well a few months ago she had a filly”.

Maggie leant against a new stall, this one was occupied by a large white and grey speckled appaloosa and a smaller almost identical filly. “I couldn’t help myself and named her Emily”.

Cordell watched as the small filly crossed the stall and left the comfort zone of her mother. Reaching his hand into the stall, the filly gave a tentative sniff. Maggie nudged her brother’s arm and handed him a small carrot, which he offered to the foal. Emily excitably munched on the treat before pushing her head into Cordell’s hand once more, searching for more carrots.

“Why Emily,”

“She was born a week after you left, everyone was so lost, when daddy asked me what we should call her, Emily was the only name I could think of. The kids seemed to brighten up a little when I told them her name. Stella even helped me tend to her those first few months” She answered as she refilled the feed and water buckets in the stall.

Weeks past before Cordell got the courage to talk to his little sister again, this time he came armed with the knowledge of Liam betrayal and how defensive the young women had gotten. Once again, he found her tending to the horses in the barn.

“Maggie” Came Cordell’s voice, laced with an unusual mix of uncertainty and confidence for the Texas ranger. The women in question simply hummed in acknowledgement as she brushes the stallion’s coat. “I know what Liam did”

The barn remained silent; it was as if the few months that Cordell had been undercover were a period that his sister mere wished to forget now that he has come home.

“We were all grieving Em’s death and then your disappearing act really rocked to boat” Magnolia’s voice was soft as her hand stilled, Adonis – the stallion maggie was tending to whined slightly at the lack of attention. “Then Liam suggested petitioning for custody of the kids, i…I just couldn’t believe he even thought about it…to me it felt like he thought you were never coming back and…I…I thought he was suggesting y…you…were…dead” She stuttered around her tears. Cordell didn’t respond both his brother and Stella had recounted the pain and anger in the usually soft and understanding women when Liam brought up his idea at family dinner. Instead, he simply stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Magnolia.

“I know, thank you for defending me”.

“Always”

“Now,” Cordell said after separating from the hug and clasping his hands together, “Whatever Momma is cooking smells absolutely amazing” Magnolia smiled and followed her brother back into the family home, linked at the elbows like they use to do as kids.

Abeline’s smile grew when she saw her children walk into the kitchen, Magnolia giggling loudly, seemingly at something Cordell had said. For their mother, it sparked joy to see her baby girl smile a genuine smile, something that hadn’t graced her lips since the family received the news of Emily’s death. She hoped and prayed that night that the smile on Magnolia’s lips never had to leave ever again.

[1-800-papaya]

Masterlist

Fluff 😊| Smut 😳| angst 🥺| One-shot 1️⃣| Series ♾️|🟢= completed | 🟡= In Progress | 🔴= On Hold READER INSERT MASTERLIST REQUESTS ARE OPEN

Author note | I would like to acknowledge that I don't own any characters or lore mentioned in my stories except my original characters. Also, feel free to send me concerns or issues with my stories, master list, or anything.

Bookshelf

Jason Todd

Dean Winchester

Jay Halstead

Southern Caffeine 😊🟢 Southern Charm 😊🟢 Southern Hospitality 😊🟡 Not So Southern 🥺🟢

Bucky Barnes

Benedict Bridgerton

Charming a Duchess 😊🟢

9-1-1 & 9-1-1: Lone star

Mattheo Riddle

Other

Cowgirls Don't Cry 😊🥺1️⃣🟢

Think of you 🟡