mysteriousxgirls

[mysteriousxgirls]

Ivy had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep the grin off her face when he told her not to smirk. Innocent as ever, she held her hands up in mock surrender, as if she hadn’t spent the whole ride home making him squirm. The moment Rhett slipped out of the car to gather Harper into his arms, she finally let the smile loose, lips curving wickedly as she followed him out. She paused to admire the way his broad hands held his sleepy little girl so tenderly, her tiny arms curled around his neck like she belonged there forever. And then her gaze caught his — that dark, heated stare that sent a thrill racing through her. When he told her that every step towards that front door was torture,Ivy laughed under her breath. “Oh, you poor thing,” she teased, "always so dramatic.." she grinned, closing the distance between them until her palm slid across his lower back as she followed him inside. “Looks like you need to put her to bed, then.” Her fingers skimmed lower, over the curve of his ass, giving him a slow, deliberate squeeze “I’ll wait for you,” she murmured, lips brushing the shell of his ear as she brushed past him, knowing full well the heat she left simmering in her wake.

Continuing on from here // Rhett x Ivy // @mysteriousxgirls

The car’s headlights washed over the front of Rhett’s place as he pulled up against the pavement, engine humming low before he cut it. For a moment, he didn’t move. His hands stayed on the wheel, jaw clenched like he was trying to will his heartbeat back to normal. Then he glanced over at Ivy — eyes dark, lips still parted from the words she had to say. “You better not smirk at me like that when I’m carrying Harper out” he muttered, trying for playful, but his voice came out rough with tension. He groaned, dragging a hand over his face before twisting in his seat to glance into the back. Harper was out cold, her tiny head tipped to the side. Rhett exhaled, low and amused. “She’s dead to the world,” he said quietly, looking back at Ivy with a smirk. “And I’m over here fighting for my life.” Still, he opened the door and climbed out, coming around to unbuckle his daughter. His big hands were gentle as he gathered her into his arms, her little arms automatically wrapping around his neck as she woke slowly. But as he turned back toward the block, his gaze flicked to Ivy over the roof of the car and the look he gave her was anything but soft. “You know every step toward that front door is torture right now, right?” he asked, voice low. He pushed open the front door with his foot and stepped inside before finding his way to his door. The warmth of the place settling around them but the heat in Rhett’s gaze never wavered, burning with everything he was holding back.

[mysteriousxgirls]

“Baby…” she laughed — a breathless sound that sent a shiver straight down his spine — as she hooked her fingers into his belt loops and reeled him in, lips crashing into his like she couldn’t bear another inch of distance. “You have no idea,” she whispered against his mouth, hands already roaming up the hard planes of his chest. Every inch of him was solid and warm beneath her touch, and the way he shuddered into her kiss sent her heart racing even faster. When he reached for her cardigan and tugged, the buttons gave way with a sharp, eager pop — tiny beads scattering across the floor as the fabric slid from her shoulders. For a moment, she paused, drinking him in. God, she’d never get tired of this view — the sharp angles of his abs, the strength in his arms, that intense way he looked at her like she was all he’d ever need.

“I’ve missed this, I`ve missed you.” she breathed, eyes locked on him as she pulled her top over her head and tossed it aside. Her bra followed in a heartbeat, and then her hands were at his waistband again, tugging him with her toward the bedroom as she fumbled with his belt. “Fuck, Nate.. I’m yours,” she whispered, voice trembling with raw honesty as she worked his trousers open, her lips crashing into his once more. “I’m fucking yours — always, forever.” And then there was nothing but the heat of him against her, the taste of his kiss, and the unspoken promise hanging between them like a live wire.

Continuing on from here // Nathaniel x Harmony // @mysteriousxgirls

Nate’s breath hitched at the way she said his name, like a prayer tangled in desperation. Her grip on his shoulders only spurred him on — grounding, needy, electric. When she nodded, the last thread of restraint snapped. He kissed her again, fierce and hungry, then tugged her hand in his as they hurried through the house. "Careful," he muttered against her lips between kisses, the reminder soft but strained with want, one hand pressing against her lower back protectively as they moved. Even with desire roaring in his veins, his mind never strayed far from her — from their baby. Still, he didn’t stop kissing her. Couldn’t. His lips kept finding hers, then her jaw, then the spot just below her ear that always made her gasp.

By the time they reached the hallway, his free hand was tugging his sweater over his head in one fluid motion, muscles flexing as it was flung somewhere behind them. He reached for her cardigan next — couldn’t help it — and with a sharp pull, the few buttons gave way with soft pops, clattering like pebbles on the floor as the fabric slid off her shoulders. "Shit," he murmured with a crooked grin, but he didn’t slow down. His hands were already under the hem of his white undershirt, peeling it from his skin and tossing it aside without a second thought, his eyes never leaving her. "God I’ve missed this" he breathed, voice rough and they still hadn’t even made it to the bedroom.

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[mysteriousxgirls]

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Harmony wasn’t sure if it was the pregnancy stirring her hormones into overdrive, but all she could think about was him — his hands on her, him deep inside her, the way he felt when they finally lost themselves in each other. Every kiss she pressed to his neck sent a shiver racing up her spine, every shaky breath fanned against his skin only making her need him more. Even as they rolled into the driveway, her palm stayed firmly on his crotch, her lips tracing the warm curve of his throat like she couldn’t bear to break contact. When Nate finally threw the car into park and came around to her side, her breath caught in her chest. The door swung open, and before she could even move, his hands were on her face, helping her out and pulling into a kiss that was all heat and hunger — the kind that left her dizzy and aching. “Nate…” she moaned into his mouth, hands gripping his shoulders like an anchor. The taste of him, his hands in her hair, the way his tongue tangled with hers — it shattered any last shred of patience she had left. She nodded breathlessly at his low command to go upstairs, breaking the kiss just long enough to stumble after him, fingers laced tightly with his as they crossed the threshold. “Hurry,” she urged, voice trembling with need, eyes locked on him like she might come apart if they weren’t tangled together in the next few moments. Her hands fumbled with the door, pushing it open with trembling fingers as they slipped inside, her entire body already humming with anticipation.

Ivy felt her smile soften as she glanced at Rhett, heart melting at the way he was trying so hard to hold it together. “Oh, Rhett…” she murmured, voice warm and threaded with affection. “I’m glad I have that effect on you.” Her fingers brushed his thigh playfully before withdrawing, her eyes glowing with quiet promise. “And trust me — I’ll wait,” she added with a teasing wink. “Even if bedtime takes a little longer tonight… it’ll just give me more time to imagine everything I’m going to do to you once we’re finally alone.” The softness in her gaze was matched by a spark of heat, making it clear that she was just as eager as he was — and that tonight would absolutely be worth the wait.

Nate’s jaw was clenched so tight it ached, her breathy moans and whispered promises clawing at every last thread of control he had left. Her fingers against him, her mouth on his skin — she was wrecking him from the inside out, and she knew it. His hand tightened just slightly around her wrist, his voice low, strained. “I’ll give you everything, baby,” he rasped. “Every second, every inch — all of it. Just hold on.” The sleek car rolled through the front gates of their security-manned community, Nate barely nodding at the guard as the barrier lifted. He didn’t trust himself to speak — not when Harmony’s lips were dragging slow fire across his neck, not when every nerve ending in his body was begging to pull over and forget the world. The road curved upward toward their home, the quiet neighborhood bathed in warm evening light. He tapped the remote clipped to the visor, and the garage door began to rise. As soon as the car slipped inside and the door started closing behind them, he threw it into park, killing the engine. He was out of the car in an instant. Rounding her side, he opened her door and held out a hand — but the moment she stepped out, Nate backed her up against the cool metal of the car, his hands on either side of her face as he crashed his mouth to hers. The kiss was nothing short of hungry — desperate, claiming, full of all the tension he’d been holding back on that drive. His lips parted hers, tongue sweeping in like he already owned her, like the wait had nearly killed him. One hand slid into her hair, gripping gently, the other slipping to her waist, dragging her closer as he groaned into her mouth. “Upstairs now”

Rhett let out a low, strangled laugh — the kind that sounded like it was fighting its way out of a man barely holding on. His fingers tensed as she guided his hand higher, and when she let go, he gave her a wide-eyed side glance like she’d just handed him a live grenade with a wink. “You tryna send me to an early grave, Ivy?” he whispered, shaking his head as he stared straight ahead, trying to focus on the road like it hadn’t just turned into lava beneath the tires. “Because I wasn’t built for this level of temptation with a five-year-old in the back seat singin’ the Bluey theme.” Her words echoed in his head — I plan on showing you. Every last trick. That grin. That tone. That thigh. He cleared his throat, voice still low as he muttered, “I am absolutely terrified and also the most motivated I’ve ever been to get someone through a bedtime routine in under four minutes.”

[mysteriousxgirls]

Harmony felt his grip tighten around her wrist, his deep, raw voice washing over her like a wildfire, and it sent a shiver racing up her spine. Every word he growled made her ache deeper, her heartbeat thundering as if it could jump straight out of her chest. “Oh, baby,” she breathed, lips brushing along his jaw, savoring the way his scent filled her lungs. Her fingers flexed where they rested against him, feeling just how hard he was, and it pulled a needy, breathless sound from her lips. “You have no idea how much I’d love to be whining your name right now,” she murmured, her voice melting into a low, husky purr. Her mouth found his ear again as she whispered, “And I’ll wait… if you can promise to give me every second of what I’m craving once we get home.” She shifted closer, kissing a slow trail along the tense column of his neck. “Because god, Nate, I want you,” she moaned into his ear, her breath hot against his skin, “so badly it hurts.”

Ivy let out a breathless laugh at Rhett’s reaction, her heart skipping wildly at the feel of his thumb circling her thigh. “You scared? Or just dying to get home faster?” she teased softly, leaning toward him over the console so that the warmth of her breath brushed the side of his neck. Her hand covered his where it rested on her leg, squeezing gently as her gaze sparkled up at him, dark with unspoken need. “You really don’t know what you do to me,” she murmured, voice smooth as honey as her fingers threaded between his, bringing his hand higher up her thigh before releasing it. “And trust me — I plan on showing you. Every last trick.” With a wicked little grin, she settled back into her seat, gaze fixed on him like a challenge. “So if I were you,” she added sweetly, her voice a sinful whisper, “I’d make sure Harper’s asleep fast… because I’m going to make tonight unforgettable, but first, we will cook."

A sharp breath hissed through Nate’s teeth the moment her lips found that spot beneath his ear, her teeth grazing his skin just right — just enough to make his grip on the steering wheel tighten like a vice. “Fuck, Harms” he groaned, low and guttural, the sound raw with need. That pout of hers, that voice — it was doing things to him, turning every mile of restraint into a battle he was rapidly losing. His jaw clenched as her hand slid higher, pressing right where he already ached for her. His hips shifted instinctively, desperate for more friction even as he fought to keep the car steady. “You’re playing with fire, baby,” he warned, voice dark, thick with tension. The engine growled beneath them as he accelerated slightly like he was trying to outrun the heat building between them but god, it was useless. Her touch, her lips, her need — it was seared into him now. He flicked his gaze toward her, eyes molten. “You really want me to fuck you in this car, huh?” he murmured, lips twitching with a crooked smirk. “Squeeze into that tiny back seat so I can have you whining my name with the windows fogged up” One hand slid from the wheel just long enough to grab her wrist, his touch firm but not stopping her — guiding her, pressing her palm even closer to the heat between his legs. “You better be ready to wait until I can get you somewhere I can really take my time”

Rhett let out a low whistle, eyebrows lifting as he turned to look at her, a slow grin spreading across his face. “Damn, Ivy,” he said, voice rough with amusement and a spark of something darker beneath it. “You tryin’ to kill me before Harper’s even in bed?” His fingers tightened just slightly on the steering wheel, knuckles white for a second as he adjusted in his seat. “Quality alone time, huh? Gotta say, you’re makin’ a very convincing case. Honestly, I’m a little scared… in the best way.” She leaned back like nothing happened, and that made him laugh again — disbelieving, turned-on, a little dangerous. “Oh, okay,” he said, nodding slowly. “So you’re just gonna drop that bomb and then pretend you didn’t almost turn me into a menace behind the wheel.” He reached over, hand landing on her thigh with a gentle squeeze, thumb brushing slow, deliberate circles. “You better pray she knocks out fast tonight,” he murmured, gaze fixed on the road but voice dripping with promise.

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Harmony loved the effect she had on him — the way that low, rough groan rumbled from deep in his chest made a slow, delicious heat unfurl in her belly. It ignited a spark she hadn’t felt in far too long, and god, she needed him, every inch of him. “Is that so?” she purred, lips curving into a wicked smile as she caught his eye. “Because you know I wouldn’t complain if you pulled over right now and we disappeared into the back seat.” Her fingers brushed along his thigh again, teasing him slowly before she let her hand trail higher, over the firm muscle of his inner thigh, then finally pressing gently against the heat of him through his pants. “I really hope you have all the time in the world, baby,” she whispered, voice husky with need. “Because I’m starving to feel you inside me again. It’s been too long.” A breathless pout played on her lips as she leaned in, mouth grazing the side of his neck. She pressed a soft kiss just below his ear, teeth catching his skin in the most fleeting, tantalizing nip. “Please,” she murmured against him, lips barely ghosting over his pulse, “hurry. I need you so badly.”

Ivy laughed, breathless and light as her fingers threaded into his hair, tugging playfully at the strands. Something about him — the way he could make her melt with just a glance — sent her heart tumbling every single time. “Maybe I will,” she teased, tilting her head as her gaze sparkled with a wicked sort of mischief. “After all, I haven’t had the chance to spend some quality alone time with Harper’s very irresistible dad yet.” Her lips curved into a slow, knowing grin as she leaned closer, voice soft and charged with promise. “I’ve been craving you,” she confessed, fingers trailing up his arm before settling warmly at his neck again. “And once she’s asleep… let’s just say I plan to show you every single one of my tricks.” With a gentle kiss brushed against his jawline, Ivy pulled back just enough to catch his gaze, her own darkened with desire. “So you’d better be ready,” she murmured, lips lingering close to his ear, “because I plan on making up for lost time.” she said then leaned back in her seat again like nothing ever happened.

Nate let out a low groan, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as her fingers danced up his thigh. “Shit, Harmony…” he muttered, eyes flicking toward her for just a second — enough to catch that wicked little smile that always messed with his head. “Keep touching me like that and we’re not even making it home,” he said, voice thick with need, one hand tightening on the steering wheel as the other shifted gears a little more aggressively than usual. His heart was thudding now, not just from the teasing, but from how badly he missed this — missed her. His foot pressed a little harder on the gas, not reckless, but definitely eager. He reached over between shifts, fingers brushing her thigh in return, warm and possessive. “Hope you’re not too tired, baby. I’ve got a lot of time to make up for.”

Rhett grinned wide, that boyish sparkle lighting up his eyes as he shot her a sideways glance. “Ohhh, all your tricks, huh? Damn, here I was thinking I already got the deluxe package,” he teased, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel while the other drummed against his thigh in time with the music. When she looked back at Harper, his chest gave a little ache — the good kind — the kind that came when something just fit. “Hey,” he said gently, eyes back on the road but his voice low and sincere. “What matters is that Harper sees you. And she does. She talks about you like you hung the damn moon after that charm.” Then, with a crooked grin creeping back in, he added, “And between you and me? Her dad’s pretty smitten too.” He let the silence hang for a beat, then couldn’t help himself — “But, uh, don’t go getting too cocky, alright? I still haven’t seen these world-famous tricks.” Rhett winked, glancing in the rearview mirror to check on Harper, then back at Ivy with a little tilt of his head.

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A warm, genuine laugh spilled from her lips, and she couldn’t help but roll her eyes when he joked about struggling to concentrate on the road. God, she had missed this — the ease between them, the way they could tease one another without a second thought, the way his beautiful smile always made her heart do ridiculous flips. “Keep picturing it, baby,” she purred, leaning across the center console just enough to trail her fingers over his knee. Slowly, deliberately, she brushed her hand higher up his thigh, teasing him, tugging playfully at the waistband of his trousers as if to make sure he was paying attention. Then, just as quickly, her touch drifted back down, feather-light and full of unspoken promises. “Because I meant it when I said I want you,” she murmured, voice low and charged with heat. “And as soon as we get home, I’m going to show you exactly how much.” Harmonys lips curved into a wicked little smile as she added, “So… you might want to speed up.”

Ivy blinked in surprise when Rhett called her attractive, feeling an instant flush creep up her cheeks. The sincerity in his voice hit her deeper than she had expected, and she had to bite her lip to keep from completely melting under his gaze. “Oh jeez,” she laughed softly, trying to play it off as her heart gave an unsteady thump. “Talking about proposing already? Careful — you haven’t even seen all my tricks yet,” she teased, eyes bright with humor, though there was a softness beneath it. After a beat, her expression gentled, the teasing giving way to something more genuine as she glanced back at Harper in the rear seat. “I’m really glad you think I’m good with her,” she said, voice warm and a touch uncertain. “I know I’ll never be Harmony — I wouldn’t want to try — but I do hope she likes me. She’s an amazing kid… and honestly?” Her gaze shifted back to him with a small, shy smile. “I really do care about her. And about her dad too.” A soft giggle escaped her as she added, “Okay, especially her dad.”

Nate let her words sink in, a slow smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as he watched the way her eyes lit up when she talked about Ivy. There was something sacred in that kind of bond — the kind built brick by brick, steady and enduring, the kind you never question. And the fact that she’d trusted him enough to step into that circle, to share a little piece of the world she'd built with Ivy? That didn’t go unnoticed. Not by a long shot. “You know,” he said, nudging her playfully with his elbow, “I had a feeling maybe she had a spicy side to her” He chuckled, then shook his head, the smile deepening. “She got moves in the bedroom? Is that what you mean? Because now I’m picturing how you found that out and I’m struggling to concentrate on this road” he smirked.

Rhett grinned, the kind that stretched slow and lazy across his face, eyes crinkling at the edges as he watched her switch so effortlessly into mother-mode. It was adorable — like, heart-thudding, stupidly attractive adorable — and he wasn’t about to pretend otherwise. “Okay, but like… who gave you permission to be this attractive while doing bedtime logistics?” he teased, voice low and playful as he leaned in just a little. “You’re over here talking about tucking Harper in and making food, and I’m just trying not to propose.” He glanced toward Harper, who was now fully snuggled into her bear, her eyelids at war with gravity, and his expression softened even more. “You’re good with her” he added, more quietly now. “Like… really good. I can tell she already loves you. Which is either amazing or terrifying. Still deciding.” Then, smirking again, he bumped his shoulder against hers.

[mysteriousxgirls]

He had no idea just how much it meant to her that he and Ivy had hit it off. Ivy had been by her side from the very first day they met — always showing up, never wavering — and she knew, deep in her heart, that would last forever. So to see him embrace that connection, to offer Ivy the same genuine warmth and respect, filled her with a quiet joy. Knowing Nate could have a friendship like that — one built on honesty and loyalty, just like hers with Rhett — felt like a small miracle. Nate deserved someone who could listen without judgment, who wasn’t afraid to speak their mind, and who could make him laugh when things felt too heavy. “I really do think she’s going to be fine,” she murmured, her lips curving into a playful grin, “but Rhett… well, that’s who I’m worried about.” A soft giggle followed, light and teasing. “Ivy’s got this wild streak in her that he hasn’t even begun to see yet. Honestly? I wish I could be there to see the look on his face when it finally comes out.”

A bright smile curved on Ivy’s lips as she felt Rhett melt into her touch, his head tilting back into her fingers without hesitation. She watched him for a long, quiet moment, the ease between them making her chest feel warm and full. Then she nodded, voice gentle but sure. “Let’s head home,” she agreed. “We can cook together, have something good to eat… Harper looks like she’s about to drift off.” Ivy glanced back at the little girl rubbing her eyes and cuddling her stuffed bear. “We’ll make sure she eats first,” she added, tone fond, “then we’ll tuck her in and call it a night.”

“Yeah, it was a really lovely conversation,” he said with a smile, the memory playing back in his mind. Each topic they’d touched on resurfaced with clarity—what they discussed, what he learned from it and the rare sense of ease that came with it. It wasn’t just idle small talk; there was space for sincerity, for depth, if he ever needed it. In a world where trust was a scarce commodity, meeting someone who felt genuine was quietly disarming. “They seem to complement each other well,” he added with a chuckle. “Think she’s got the stamina to keep up with him?” When she thanked him, he glanced over, his smile widening instinctively. “I can’t take any credit for that baby, that was entirely Rhett’s doing.”

As Ivy’s hand slid to the back of Rhett’s neck, a quiet groan escaped him—half pleasure, half surprise, like someone finding the last fry at the bottom of the bag. He tilted his head back into her touch without hesitation, fully basking in their effortless spark. “I genuinely can’t think of anything better than heading back and doing absolutely nothing,” he said with a lazy grin. “We could cook together if you're up for a little culinary chaos—or, if you’d prefer to get your MasterChef groove on solo, I’ll gladly stay out of your way and pretend not to snack on everything before it’s done.”

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One hand rested tenderly on her belly, fingers tracing slow, absent circles, while the other stayed wrapped in Nate’s as he guided them down the road. When he spoke about Ivy, she turned to him, her eyes bright with affection. “I’m so relieved you like her, baby,” she murmured, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “I’d ask what you two talked about out there, but… I won’t. Whatever it was, I can tell you both needed it.” Her lips curved into a warm smile as she glanced ahead again. “And I’m just really happy you two got along.” She exhaled, voice soft and heartfelt. “She’s the best, yeah… and Rhett’s lucky. But so is she. They both deserve someone they can lean on — someone they trust, someone who won’t leave when things get hard. Someone who’s there for the long haul.” A lightness filled her chest, a sweetness she hadn’t felt in a long while. “Thank you, baby,” she added quietly. “For surprising me, for dragging me out of the house. I really needed this.”

Ivy glanced back at Harper, who was happily lost in her own world with the stuffed bear Rhett had handed her. A soft smile touched her lips before she faced forward again, meeting Rhett’s gaze as he asked if they were actually getting pizza. She gave a light laugh, the sound easy and warm. “We could,” she teased, her hand reaching up to slide around the back of his neck. Her fingertips brushed into his hair as she leaned back into the seat, her voice gentle. “Or I could cook if you’re not feeling pizza. Whatever you want, Rhett.”

Nate glanced in the rearview mirror as Harmony settled beside him, her fingers laced with his. The warm silence between them buzzed with something soft and grounding. He exhaled, one hand on the wheel, the other never letting go of hers. Up ahead, Rhett’s car pulled out first, tail lights blinking before easing into the road. Nate fell in behind, matching his pace. He was quiet for a moment, eyes flicking between the road and the car ahead. Then, almost absently, he murmured, “I’m glad I got to speak to Ivy today. She’s lovely, isn’t she.” It wasn’t just small talk. He meant it. That hug… the way she held on like she meant it — that didn’t happen with just anyone. Not in his world. His thumb brushed against Harmony’s hand. “Rhett’s lucky,” he added after a beat, more thoughtful this time. “You can tell she gives a damn. About you. About all of it.”

Rhett’s hand rested casually on the steering wheel, the other reaching into the backseat to blindly pass Harper her little stuffed bear. “There you go, monkey,” he said without looking. “Don’t say I never give you anything.” Harper giggled, already halfway into an imaginary game involving the bear and a leftover straw. Rhett just shook his head and smirked. He cast a glance at Ivy in the passenger seat. A moment passed. Then another.“Are we genuinely getting pizza?” he asked, softer than his usual teasing tone.

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Harmony’s lips curved into a gentle smile as Nate offered his hand and eased her up. She fell into step with the others, leaning into him just a little as they moved toward the door. When Nate murmured that he had her, she simply nodded, heart softening at the tenderness in his voice. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught him pausing to fold Ivy into a hug. It sent a warm glow through her — after their talk before, seeing them grow closer felt like a weight lifting. Ivy mattered so much to her; seeing her connect with Nate felt like all the pieces settling into place. Ivy held him for a moment before rubbing his back and whispering, “Take care…” Then she pulled back, turning to Harmony and pulling her into a tight embrace. “I love you,” Ivy murmured into her hair. “Call me if you need me. I’m here — I’m not going anywhere.” When they eased apart, Ivy gave her that familiar smile that felt like home.

Harmony’s eyes shone as she nodded. “I’m so glad you stayed,” she whispered, heart full. Knowing Ivy was staying — and staying with Rhett — gave her a sense of peace she hadn’t felt in a while. Before heading off, she crossed to Rhett and wrapped him up in a warm hug. “Thank you,” she told him softly, pulling back just enough to meet his gaze. “See you again soon.” Bending down, she pressed a quick kiss to Harper’s hair. “See you, my little monster,” she teased fondly. Finally, she returned to Nate, lifting her hand in a gentle wave toward the others as he guided her into the Porsche. “See you guys,” she called with a last smile, her fingers already weaving with Nate’s as she settled into the seat, ready to head home together.

Nate’s chair scraped quietly as he stood, the sound barely noticeable over the low hum of the room. He didn’t say anything at first — just reached for Harmony with that gentle steadiness that always made her feel safe. His hand found the curve of her back as she shifted to rise. One wrapped around hers, the other warm and firm on her lower back, guiding her up like she was something precious. His fingers lingered, just enough pressure to help without crowding her. The way his thumb brushed the edge of her spine was more intimate than anything he could've said aloud.

Rhett leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, a smirk tugging slow at his lips. “Oh, yeah,” he said, catching Ivy’s look and nodding toward Nate and Harmony. “Don’t let us stop you. Honestly, if Harper’s in bed early tonight, I wouldn’t mind the same plans.” His tone was casual, but his eyes had that soft edge — the kind that only showed when he looked at Ivy. “Something warm and cheesy of our own, huh?” He sent Ivy a lazy wink that made her roll her eyes, though her smile betrayed her. As they walked out together, Nate leaned in close to Harmony, his breath warm at her shoulder, his hand never once leaving her. “I got you,” he whispered against her hair. As they reached their cars, Nate made sure to give Ivy a cuddle, kissing her hair as he did so before moving to give Rhett a hug too.

[mysteriousxgirls]

Harmony let out a soft, breathy laugh, savoring the way Nate’s eyes darkened — that hungry glint that never failed to send a thrill straight through her. God, she missed this. It reminded her of their time after the pods, when they couldn’t keep their hands off each other, when the world melted away every time they were together. “Can’t help it,” she murmured, lips curving into a wicked little grin. “I’m a woman in heat.” When he whispered his plan — sex, then pizza, then more sex — she broke into a quiet laugh that was all warmth and need. It was exactly what they both deserved after everything they had been through. Nothing sounded better than stealing him away for the day — losing themselves in each other, recharging with junk food and each other’s touch until they finally felt human again.

Across the table, Ivy arched a brow as Nate stood, a knowing smile playing on her lips. “Oh, warm and cheesy, huh?” she teased, cocking her head at him. “Pretty sure that’s code for something else.” Her gaze flicked to Rhett, amusement dancing in her eyes as she added, “How about we call it a day? She’s pregnant and starving, I’m jet-lagged from a flight I never even caught, and honestly? A nap and something cheesy sound perfect right about now.”

Nate’s eyes softened the moment Harmony called him her husband like it was the only word that had ever made sense. His smile tugged slow at the corners of his mouth, that familiar smug grin that always showed up when she said something that absolutely ruined him in the best way. “Slipped out, huh?” he repeated, voice low enough that it was meant only for her. “Well… guess you gotta wait and see if I get my knee dirty for you.” His hand found hers beneath the table, thumb brushing slow over her knuckles like a quiet promise. It was obvious that it was inevitable. Once he’d worked through his trust issues, he was sure it wouldn’t be far off from happening. He was ready to wed her during the pods but the world had other plans for him.

Then she turned to Rhett with that teasing spark in her voice, and Nate snorted at the back-and-forth. His eyes flicked to Rhett and Ivy, a small smile playing on his lips at the way Rhett leaned closer to the girl without even realising. But the moment Harmony leaned in, the moment her breath warmed his ear and those words spilled out, Nate’s entire body responded like a lit fuse. His jaw clenched in a way that only she’d notice.“Baby” he whispered, eyes darkening instantly as he turned toward her, gaze locked on her. “You can’t just drop that in public unless you’re trying to get us arrested.” His lips brushed her earlobe as he murmured, “Sex first. Then pizza. Then sex again. For digestion purposes of course...” When Ivy spoke up, Nate didn’t even flinch. He rose to his feet suddenly, all casual and unbothered as he shot Ivy a grin. “We’re just talking about carbs,” he said smoothly, glancing back at Harmony with that unmistakable glint in his eye. “She’s craving… something warm and cheesy.” And then, without shame, he added under his breath just for Harmony, “Pretty sure I’ve got a stuffed crust situation for you right now.”

[mysteriousxgirls]

Harmony’s cheeks warmed under Nate’s knowing gaze, and she felt her heart do a gentle flip. The truth was simple — she had never seen him as anything but her forever. Wedding or not, rings or none, they were already bound together in every way that mattered. She gave him a soft, easy smile and a tiny shrug, her voice low and sincere. “Guess it just slipped out,” she murmured, “but yeah… husband. Always. Official or not — it’s always going to feel like that.” Before Nate could reply, she glanced across the table at Rhett and arched a brow, a grin tugging at her lips. “And I heard that, you rude ass. I’m very much cute,” she teased, eyes twinkling as she caught the quiet way Rhett was looking at Ivy. The tender smile that bloomed on Harmony’s face spoke volumes — seeing them like this gave her even more hope for all of them. Then she turned back to Nate, lips brushing his ear as her pout deepened. “Babe?” she asked, her voice gentle and tired all at once. “I’m exhausted… my back’s killing me, I’m dying for some pizza — and honestly…” She paused, leaning in so only he could hear, “I’m very, very horny. Something about all this husband talk — it’s really doing it for me.” A playful glint sparked in her eye as she pulled back just enough to catch his gaze, her grin promising that tonight was far from over. "Soo.. pizza now then sex or sex first then pizza?" Ivy raised an eyebrow and laughed, "hey what are you two whispering, hm?"

“Poor ace doesn’t know the shopping trips he is about to be dragged along to” Nate murmured with a crooked smile, his hand tracing slow circles over the curve of her belly. The tenderness swelling inside him felt almost unbearable, a love so large it pressed against his ribs, tight and luminous. It hovered on the brink of tears, though he held them back. Those would come later, undoubtedly the moment he held their son for the first time. And then, almost imperceptibly, she slipped, her sentence brushing against a word. Husband. His brow arched, amusement flickering in his gaze before it settled into a knowing smirk. “Husband, huh?” he echoed, catching the word as if it had been intentionally thrown. Her lips met his before she could respond, but the warmth lingered. “So that’s where your mind’s been,” he teased softly, his tone light — though the question settled deeper. Had she truly been thinking of that future? Had they both?

Across the table, Rhett caught the glint of hot chocolate crusting at the corner of Harper’s mouth. He wiped it gently with his thumb, instinctive and easy. “Nate’s a cutie,” he said with a lopsided grin. “Not sure about the other one though,” he added, jerking his chin toward himself with mock suspicion. But beneath the joking tone, something quieter stirred. He glanced at Ivy, not long, just enough, and felt the shape of that hope forming in his chest. A future like that. He wasn’t quite ready to say it aloud for the both of them, not yet. But he hoped the same kind of love would be waiting for him too at least if it didn’t end up being for him and Ivy as a couple.

[mysteriousxgirls]

Harmony gazed down at Nate’s hand resting over her belly, feeling the gentle thump of their baby’s kick beneath his palm. Her lips curved into a bright smile and a soft laugh bubbled up. “Looks like Ace already knows I’m going to be trapped at IKEA for hours,” she teased, eyes dancing as she glanced up at Nate. “But I won’t be trapped there alone — you’re coming with me.” Her grin melted into something more tender as he spoke about looking forward to meeting their son, to their future together. Her heart fluttered at his words. She reached up, brushing her fingers along his jaw before cradling his cheek in her palm. “Me too, baby,” she murmured, her voice warm and full of promise. “I can’t wait to see you being the most amazing father and husb—” she paused just long enough to catch herself, then added with a playful glint, “boyfriend.” She leaned in to kiss him softly, lips lingering before she pulled back with a happy, breathless smile.

Ivy watched them with a quiet joy, her gaze soft as she took in the tender scene. It was impossible not to feel the warmth radiating between them. Whatever was waiting just around the corner—no gang, no stalker, no ghosts from the past— could ever break them apart, she had faith they would face anything together. Ivy’s heart swelled as she glanced over at Rhett and offered him a gentle smile, her own thoughts drifting toward their own future they could build together. “They really are adorable, huh?” she whispered to him, a quiet, hopeful light in her eyes.

Rhett leaned back in his chair, the low hum of conversation around them fading under the sound of Harmony’s laughter. He caught the glint in her eye as she teased him and pretended to clutch his chest like he’d been shot. “Uninvite me? Wow. So this is the betrayal I get after I offered to DJ your baby shower with a playlist that slaps? Rude.” He shot Ivy a mock glare as she kissed his cheek. “You’re siding with Harper now?” He turned to his daughter with mock betrayal. Then he leaned back and added with a dramatic sigh, “Fine. I’ll just show up uninvited with a tray of sausage rolls and a Bluetooth speaker blaring Spice Girls, see how long you last without me.”

Nate chuckled under his breath, eyes still on Harmony as she lit up at the mention of fairy lights. “Baby, if you make a list, we both know you’re going to end up in IKEA for five hours and come home with everything but fairy lights.” As she guided his hand to her bump, his teasing melted into something softer. His palm stilled over the flutter, and his smile deepened. “Hey, little guy,” he murmured, thumb brushing gently. “You warning me your mum’s about to order ten thousand fairy lights?” He looked back up at Harmony, his voice quiet. “I can’t wait to meet him.” Then, “For our family to grow.”

[mysteriousxgirls]

Harmony rolled her eyes with a light, melodic laugh. “You know,” she began, a wicked glint in her eyes as she tilted her chin toward Rhett, “maybe I should uninvite you. It will be just Ivy and Harper — that way there’ll actually be food left for everyone.” Her grin only grew as she teased, “Especially since Nate’s family will be there. You really think I want to risk embarrassing myself?” She then gasped playfully at Nate’s comment about her sleep-talking. “Wait — did I seriously say something about fairy lights? That’s actually a good idea.” Her hands clapped together in delight. “Oh my god, I need to make a whole shopping list!”

Ivy chuckled, her gaze drifting fondly toward Harper as the little girl shared Rhett’s secret. “Wow, Rhett,” she said with a teasing lilt, reaching up to kiss his cheek, “guess you won’t be having any cake for dinner tonight. Looks like Harper and I will be enjoying it instead.” Harmony’s smile softened as Nate held out a forkful of red velvet toward her lips. She leaned in, taking the bite, savoring its sweetness — then looked up into his eyes with an unspoken warmth. Just as she was about to speak, a gentle flutter in her belly stole her attention. A quiet gasp escaped her, her hands instinctively moving to cradle her round stomach. “There he goes again,” she whispered, eyes bright. Quickly, she reached for Nate’s hand and guided it to her belly. “Feel him — he’s saying hello.”

Rhett smirked, resting an elbow casually on the back of Ivy’s chair as she wiped Harper’s cheek. “Oh, there better be plenty of food,” he said with exaggerated seriousness. “I’m bringing a five-year-old and an appetite the size of a planet. You’re feeding both.” He gave Ivy a playful nudge with his knee. “And hey, if she’s offering cake, I say we at least taste test a few bakeries, for research purposes. You know. For science.” Nate chuckled softly, his thumb brushing slow circles over Harmony’s thigh, grounding and gentle. “She means it,” he said, his voice warm with pride as he looked at her. “She’s been planning this thing in her sleep. Woke me up the other night mumbling something about fairy lights and lemon drizzle.” He leaned in, pressing a kiss to her temple. “But if anyone can pull off something perfect, it’s her.”

Rhett leaned forward slightly, grinning. “Just don’t burn yourself out, Harm. You’re already carrying a whole human and now you wanna bake a three-tier cake and whatever else you have in mind?” Harper, now licking frosting off her fingers, looked up and added cheerfully, “daddy says you can’t eat cake for dinner but I say that’s silly.” Rhett gave a dramatic gasp. “Harper! That’s classified information! Don’t expose me like this in front of the respectable people.” Nate then took a forkful of the red velvet cake and dangled it in front of harmony’s mouth for her to take a bite of.

[mysteriousxgirls]

i will love you until i die

@brklynbxby

[mysteriousxgirls]

Her smile grew radiant when Nate agreed, and she bit her lip softly as she covered his hand on her thigh with her own. A warm thrill ran through her at the thought of the baby shower. Even though she was painfully aware that Nate’s family still didn’t fully accept her, this wasn’t about them—it was about Ace. She wanted him to have photos and memories of a day surrounded by everyone who mattered most, proof that he was celebrated and loved before he even arrived. And maybe, just maybe, it was also for herself. Deep down, she craved one perfect day with the people she loved because she didn’t know what the future held. Niko was still out there, and as dramatic as it sounded in her head, she couldn’t help wondering if this might be one of the last chances to feel this kind of peace. Still, she pushed those thoughts away, leaning in to kiss Nate softly before glancing at the others with a gentle laugh. “Oh, there’ll be plenty of food,” she teased Rhett, eyes bright. “I can’t wait. It’s going to be amazing.”

Ivy’s face softened as she watched her friend’s happiness. “If you need help, just say the word,” she offered warmly, reaching out to give Rhett’s leg a light, affectionate squeeze before turning her attention to Harper. Taking a tissue, Ivy carefully wiped a bit of frosting from the little girl’s cheek. “And hey, I know a fantastic bakery—we could order a gorgeous cake for the big day.” Harmony’s heart swelled at the kindness in Ivy’s voice. “That’s so sweet,” she replied, meeting her gaze with genuine appreciation before shaking her head with a smile, “but I want to do this one myself. Every bit of it—the food, the decorations, the cake. It’s important to me. Thank you, though.” And as she looked around the table at these people who had become her family, she felt a quiet, determined joy settle in her chest. This was the family she always wanted, the family she had always dreamed of.

Nate’s lips tugged into a grin the moment Harmony looked up at him like that — pouty and wide-eyed. “You missed me? I was gone for like... five minutes.” Still, there was no hesitation as he moved to take the seat beside her. Rhett let out an exaggerated sigh, standing with a dramatic stretch like he’d just been asked to give up a throne. "Fine, fine. Take your man back," Rhett muttered, smirking as he slid over to Ivy’s side again. Without missing a beat, he threw his arm over the back of her chair and leaned into it like he’d been there the whole time. “I wasn’t getting weird. You were just finally noticing my charm,” he quipped across the table, already reaching for his brownie and breaking off a hefty corner like it owed him money. Nate chuckled, settling in and immediately resting his hand on Harmony’s thigh under the table — a quiet, grounding touch he knew she always noticed. “Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere,” he murmured near her ear before brushing a quick kiss to her temple. His fingers laced with hers as they rested on her leg.

At the mention of a baby shower, his brows lifted, and he turned to look at her properly. Her hopeful expression softened something in him, and he nodded slowly, already picturing it — the people they loved in one space, celebrating something good, something that was finally theirs. “I think that sounds perfect,” he said, his voice warm and certain. “My parents, friends, these two…” He glanced over at them. “Assuming Rhett’s not too weird to attend.”

“I heard that,” Rhett said through a mouthful of brownie, pointing a finger at him but still smiling. “I’ll come if there’s more of this.” Beside him, Harper was silently working her way through a cake pop with serious focus, her legs swinging under the table. She didn’t say a word — didn’t need to — the frosting smudged across her cheek said enough. Nate laughed quietly, glancing around the table at all of them. For once, everything felt calm. Normal. Like family. He squeezed Harmony’s thigh. “Let’s do it. Two weeks. It’ll be good.”