purplerain04

[purplerain04]

stuffed animal contest

[purplerain04]

PEDRO PASCAL with Dakota Johnson & Chris Evans Materialists | Official First Look | A24

[purplerain04]

practice

Summary: Joel makes his case for you moving in.

Pairing: Joel Miller/middle-aged female reader

Words: 920

Warnings: no outbreak au. Sarah lives! (that's not really a warning) angst. fluff. mentions of oral sex. mentions of sex. reader is middle-aged. reader is female.

A/N: @maggiemayhemnj, please accept a drabble featuring your husband, Joel Miller, and middle-aged female reader. I am having a hard time dealing with season 2 and this is my preferred coping mechanism. Soft, happy, no-outbreak Joel. This is the same Joel and reader from through and fills in some of the time before she moves in. For those of you who haven't read "through," this can be read as a stand alone.

dividers by @thecutestgrotto

Joel began creating his case the moment after you kissed in the kitchen. He would silently rehearse it in his head as he did the dishes at his place, occasionally muttering to himself.

“Plenty of room.”

“Could turn the library into a studio.”

“There’s a piano.”

“What’s that, Dad?”

Startled, Joel would drop the dish he was holding back into the sink at the sound of Sarah’s voice. “Nothing. Nothing.” He’d shake his head like a dog shaking off water and go back to the dishes, looking out the window and longing for a future he couldn’t quite visualize. Yet.

Sarah would look at his back before shaking her head. “You’re not old enough to lose your mind, Dad. I still need help with my physics homework.”

Joel would bark out a nervous laugh and go back to his unwritten script.

Joel was rehearsing every time he knocked on your front door toolbox in hand. He changed out light fixtures, fixed leaky faucets, patched walls, hung photos, reinforced shelving. He was showing you he noticed small things. Knew what to do with them. Knew how to soothe small aches. How to make your life easier. Better. Better, he hoped.

Joel began reciting your names, memorizing them. 

“This is my. Mine. My-”

“- honey.”

“- girlfriend.”

“- partner.”

“- love.”

“Second chance. Key to a part of me I had thought locked forever.” But he never put the last ones into words. It still felt too raw, his heart aching with gratitude and regret. You were still too much of a miracle to him.

Joel was practicing when he spent time in your bed. On your sofa. In your shower. Like learning a new sonata, he was testing what to do with his hands. The best way to make you whimper, make you sigh, make you moan. He learned his favourite sound was a small whine you would let out just before you sank into yourself and gave in to pleasure. Before you leaned all your weight into him. Before you guided his hands to where they felt best. Before you pulled on his hair so he was close enough to heaven that you saw stars.

After Sarah graduated and left for college, you spent more time at his house. It was bigger. There was a piano. Joel’s bed was immense. Joel’s walk-in shower sparked intricate fantasies. Joel’s backyard was large and lush, perfect for casual picnics and planters upon planters of tomatoes, peppers, beans, flowers. Nothing creaked. Nothing felt like it was making do. All the angles were square.

You placed strawberry shortcake in front of Joel after dinner. You listened to him sigh as he took the first bite. You accepted his compliments. You preened and felt more like yourself. 

You too had been rehearsing. You had forgotten so much about not being alone as you bounced around the country. You were flexing muscles that had atrophied. Remembering how to live with another human being. Remembering how to compromise without resentment. Remembering the little joys that, when counted, were greater than the minor inconveniences. 

You bought orange juice without pulp. You dug out your burr grinder and espresso machine. You learned the names of different screwdriver heads.

One morning, as you lazily wrapped your arms around Joel while he made coffee, you rested your forehead against his back. You slid your hands under his teeshirt and rested your palms against his warm skin. You imagined the constellation of freckles scattered across his chest. You inhaled deeply and smelled sleep and musk and the faintest hint of detergent. You were so lost in your cataloguing that you didn’t feel Joel stop. He looked down at the counter and up at the cabinets in front of him and held his breath. Once you felt like you had absorbed his essence, you noticed the stillness and the silence.

Before you could pull away, he slid his hand up his shirt and laid it on yours.

“Joel, I’m sorry. Didn’t mean to get between you and your coffee.”

You felt his chest rise with a deep breath and felt panic grow in your stomach. “Would you like to do this every morning?” Joel shook his head. All this practice and things were still coming out wrong. 

“Stay,” he whispered.

You giggled nervously. “Joel. I can’t move. You’re holding my hand.”

“No. I mean. Stay.” He gulped air. “Stay stay. Stay.” Joel shook his head again and turned around, letting go of your hand and letting you step back to examine him. “Stay. Bring your stuff. Leave your clothing on the floor. Don’t leave. Just. Stay.” He took a deep breath and tried to still his hand that was now drumming against his thigh. “Plenty of room. There’s a piano. Can make you a space of your own. Just. Stay. Please.”

The panic in your stomach settled into a rock, like an anchor holding you in place. 

You opened your mouth, hoping to say something eloquent, but instead you closed your mouth and nodded. “I’ll stay,” you barely whispered, your throat and mouth dry. 

Joel stepped towards you and pulled you in, reciting the fragments of his case. “Plenty of room. Piano. Make you some space.” 

Before he could repeat himself, you nipped at his neck, biting harder than you had intended. Joel shuddered and quieted.

“You,” you said. You repeated the only word that mattered in your decision: “you.”

And Joel understood. He hugged you more tightly and choked, trying not to cry. Astounded at his luck.

[purplerain04]

'hey kiddo'

PEDRO PASCAL as Joel Miller THE LAST OF US 2.05 | Fell Her Love

[purplerain04]

The Unbearable Weight of Perfection, ch 11

Javi Gutierrez x female reader Co-written with @absurdthirst

When an accident of fate throws Javi G into the path of his soulmate, his instinct is to dive in head first. Adjusting to life as the fated partner of someone you barely know is going to be harder than either of you suspect, but anything worth having is worth working for. Isn't it?

(This story is heavily inspired by the lovely house museums that I work in every day and the fantastic few months that HBO was using our houses to film a TV show in fall! I spent each day on that set in wonder and I can't wait to share the experience with all of you through this story.)

Rating: M for Mature but this blog is always 18+ Word Count: 5.3k Warnings: *Blanket warnings for this story include: Cursing, alcohol, food, references to abusive family members -- i.e. Lucas, discussion of money/finances.* Big surprises, celeb name dropping, fluff and love. Summary: A big party holds a surprise for everyone involved. Notes: Apologies for the short chapter this week, loves. Keri had a particularly tough work week and I was in and out of the hospital multiple times with my husband. Everyone's okay now, but it's been an exhausting week.

Ch 1 ~ Ch 2 ~ Ch 3 ~ Ch 4 ~ Ch 5 ~ Ch 6 ~ Ch 7 ~ Ch 8 ~ Ch 9 ~ Ch 10

Saturday, September 13, 2025

“A wrap party at two in the afternoon?” Javi asks again, even though he knows the time just as well as you do. He’s just questioning the time, the attire, everything about the party Alex had decided to throw at his newly purchased home. “Housewarming and wrap party in one?” He poses, adjusting his shirt in the mirror as he waits to help you zip your dress up.

“It’s got to be an extra wrap party.” The official one was last night and everyone was out insanely late. So late that you and Javi had had breakfast soaking in the bathtub this morning to soothe your aching muscles as well as get clean. You’d danced practically until dawn. “I love this suit on you, amor.” The charcoal pinstripe with the contrasting soft blue dobby shirt underneath is a handsome pairing and by the magic of paying way too much attention, you had made the dress you’re wearing tonight out of a satin fabric that matches the blue of his shirt.

“I’m just surprised that Alex wants to throw a party.” He admits. “Although we were all surprised when he announced he bought a house. It was very…sudden.”

“Not so sudden.” You contend, nursing a growing smile. In the mirror of your shared bathroom, you and Javi get ready side by side like you always do when you go out. “He and Billie both wanted better places. I think it’s sweet. A big gesture for her.”

“I know, but still.” He adjusts his cufflinks, having decided to forgo the tie but still wear a little bit of bling. “He just snapped up the first house he toured.”

“Maybe they really liked it?” The earrings and necklace you have picked out were a gift from Javi, of course. Little pearl pieces that complement the soft look you’ve chosen perfectly. “Or maybe we only heard about this one because he chose it. There could have been others.”

Javi frowns slightly, biting his lip. “Would you have preferred we pick out a house together?” He asks. “Property. I mean, I already had this place.”

“Cariño, no! I love this place.” The structure of the house is built now, with the work crews now focusing on things inside and finessing the exterior. “We’re building a dream house. That’s extraordinary and I love it.”

“Okay.” You’ve turned to him, giving him your full attention and he takes your hands. “I just want you to be happy here.” He murmurs softly. “And if you’re happy, I’ll not say another word.”

“I’m extremely happy.” You promise him. “With you and our life and all of it.”

He smiles softly and reaches up to touch the necklace. “You look beautiful, amor.” He murmurs softly. “I am so lucky you are mine.”

“I love you too.” It’s just a sweet, little moment in the broad scheme of things, but Javi has a way of making even the small things seem enormous moving. It’s one of his many talents.

He smiles and leans in to peck his lips against yours, careful of your lipstick. He can kiss you more after the requisite photos. “Are we ready?”

“I think so.” The last thing left is to grab your purse, and that is on the dresser in your bedroom. “I’ll grab my purse and we’ll set the alarm on the way out. Easy peasy.”

“Easy peasy.” He grins. “But we have to get that machine we got them as a housewarming present.”

“It’s a pizza oven,” you remind him with a grin. “I wrapped it and put it by the door. We just have to grab it on the way out.”

“Pizza oven.” He nods. “That’s right. Alex liked ours.”

“Yup. He straight out threatened to steal it.” That particular dinner party had been a hell of a lot of fun. Alex and Billie and Jason and Moira had all come over to make personal pizzas and play poker. “So now he won’t have to.”

“That’s good.” He chuckles. “Now I just have to worry about him taking my money.” He had been surprisingly good. Not the best Javi’s played again, but he had a good poker face when he wasn’t stuffing his face with pizza and begging to bet the pizza oven.

“That’s why we don’t play poker every week,” you remind him, giggling as you swipe your purse off the dresser and follow him down the stairs. “Alex has enough money, he doesn’t need ours.”

“True.” Javi smirks. “And I’ll only play strip poker with you.”

“Damn right.” Javi is far better than you at poker but that doesn’t seem to matter to either of you. The fun part is what happens after one of you loses.

He chuckles, honestly wishing he had time to drag you back to the bedroom, but you had wanted to get there a little early to help out however you can.

“When we get home,” you hum, reading his mind purely because you’re thinking the exact same thing.

He winks, taking your hand and guiding you out of the bedroom towards the door. “My car or yours?”

“Yours.” He doesn’t let you pick up the large box, so you get the door and set the alarm behind you. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be good at driving in heels.”

“I’ll make sure the top is up so you don’t mess up your hair.” He promises.

“Thank you, baby.” It’s as simple as that, and within two minutes you’re pulling out of the garage and heading across town to Alex and Billie’s new home.

It’s different driving with the top up, but at least the conversation isn’t shouted over the wind. “There’s a lot of traffic today.” He hums, looking at the lines of cars. “Unusual for this area of town, right?”

“I don’t know,” you laugh, leaning against the window as he drives. “I think we usually spend Saturdays at home. Or at least we don’t go out until later. This could be totally normal and we have no idea.”

“Why would I want to go out when I have everything I need at home?” He asks, smirking slightly as he waits to turn.

“Because,” you laugh, poking his arm. “My husband likes to shop.”

He does, shrugging off that truth easily. You still have not completely gotten used to spending his money, but you’re better about it.

It’s sunny and warm today. Mid-September means it’s a touch dry but not dangerously so, and most people are still out and about in good spirits. The drive is short, and the gated community where Alex and Billie now live is bustling. The block is full of expensive cars and the people exiting them are all well dressed for the party they’ve been invited to. Most, like you, have brought some kind of host or housewarming gift, and many friends are amongst the group.

“Wow.” Javi is impressed when after giving your name to the security, you are motioned to a different line and guides towards a valet. “He went all out for this.” There’s a humongous white tent that is looming up over the tall fence, dominating the space.

“Big damn housewarming party,” you observe with a mix of awe and being very impressed.

“Yes it is.” Javi has been to a lot of parties and it’s got a lot of security for a housewarming.

You make it up to the front door is a steady stream of party guests, and find Alex there in his foyer shaking hands and giving out hugs. “Hey, you’re here!” He turns immediately when he sees you and clasps you and Javi both in a tight hug.

“We wouldn’t miss it for anything.” Javi promises, smiling at how he is dressed. A little fancier than he expected the party to be, even with the formal wear marked on the invite.

“Biggest and fanciest housewarming I’ve ever been to.”

“Well,” Alex shrugs and grins, giving you one more squeeze before he lets go. “We wanted to make an impression.”

“You have done that.” He promises, pulling you to his side again and smiling. “Everyone will be talking about your party.”

“The last party we had that everybody couldn’t stop talking about was your wedding,” he reminds you both with a wink.

“Yeah it was.” There’s something leading in that comment, but he doesn’t say anything. “Where is Billie?” He asks instead

'Upstairs." Alex beams at the mention of his soulmate's name. "She'll be down in a little bit. She just wants everything to be perfect."

“I’m sure it will be.” There’s something he’s not saying, but rather than being suspicious, Javi smiles. “Anything we can do?” He asks Alex. “Last minute party prep is always chaotic. My party planners were always frantic.”

“I think we’ve got everything under control.” Alex is beaming. He’s definitely not saying something, but he’s clearly having so much fun with his secret that neither you nor Javi wants to spoil it for him. “You guys can head out to the garden—” Billie loves calling it a garden so Alex is phasing yard out of his vocabulary, “and grab a drink. Everyone should be here soon.”

Javi nods and smiles as he guides you away. The clues are starting to click and he doesn’t want to voice what he thinks this might be in case he’s wrong. “A drink sounds good, don’t you think?”

“Absolutely.” It’s sort of an unspoken rule at this point that the booze is always good when it comes from Alex. He tends to do as campaigns for liquor companies most often than other things, which means he always has top shelf stuff.

“Wow, they really went all out.” Javi sees all the fresh flowers as you come out onto the patio that will serve as the open bar for the moment. The cocktail menu impressive. “What do you want to start with?”

"I'm feeling fancy, how about you?" When Javi nods, you ask the bartender for two of the blood orange French 75s on the cocktail list. It's a beautiful drink for a beautiful day, and you have your beautiful husband to boot.

“Wow.” Javi turns towards the tent. “Impressive.” He chuckles. “I would not want to be in charge of setting that up or taking it down.”

"They hired a company," you observe, looking around at waiters in all black carrying trays of things to nibble on. It's a bright and sunny day which means people are congregating in shaded areas. "Leave it to Alex to show off for a housewarming." The laugh in your voice is obvious as you walk through the party on Javi's arm. "I guess we're just going to have to step up our housewarming plans if this is what our friends are doing."

“Yeah?” Javi’s eyes sparkle with mischief. “We could blow this party out of the water.” He predicts.

"I know you want a big party," you laugh, nudging him. "We'll see how competitive we're feeling by the end of the night."

He chuckles, looking around and recognizing a lot of Alex’s former co-stars. “Look.” He murmurs. “Meryl is here.” He so wants her to be in his next movie.

“Holy shit.” It startled you out of whatever thought you were having when you following the direction he points his glass in. Across the lawn, Meryl Streep and a whole group of other Hollywood A-listers are laughing and chatting. “I guess I…forget how famous you and Alex actually are? That you…you know her?”

“I’m trying to convincer the studio to budget for her to be in the next movie.” He admits with a small smile, nodding.

“In—” your eyes widen. “In the movie you’re writing…about me?”

“Yeah.” His grin gets a little wider. “Want her to play the older version of you and Mamie to play you at the age you are now.”

“Oh sure, because that is the simplest casting in the world,” you huff, because Javi’s ideas are nothing if not grandiose. “Let’s just get Louisa Jacobson to play the character as a teenager while we’re at it.”

“Does she look like Meryl?” Javi asks seriously, not recalling the name straight away.

“That’s one of her daughters,” you grin and squeeze his arm. “She’s on that period drama I like.”

“Ohhhhhh.” Nods immediately. “Then yes. We should. It would be fitting. I will talk to the producers.”

“You already have producers?” You knew he’d talked to someone, but this is the first time you’re hearing any kind of confirmation on that front.

“I sent a few pages over to my agent and it was passed on.” He admits, shrugging slightly. “They have the option on it for the next three months before it’s finished.” He didn’t understand that part of the deal, but apparently they paid him a lot of money for the idea of him finishing the script and being able to shoot it.

That makes a hell of a lot more sense to you than someone jumping at a screenplay inspired by your life, and you nod. “We should still say hello to your friends,” you encourage, not wanting him to be blue.

“We can talk to them later.” He promises with a grin. “Unless you want introductions?” His eyes sparkling with mischief and he winks at you.

"I'm too nervous now," you admit, and if you were holding something larger that a champagne flute you might eve duck behind it to hide.

“Then let’s find Jason and Moira.” He suggests, knowing your best friend will ground you and keep you from bouncing off the walls when you realize that Elton John and his husband, David are also walking into the garden.

Characteristically for Moira and Jason, you find them over by a corner where they can survey the whole party. Being the most introverted pair in your friend group, they like to take stock of things before diving in, and you can practically see the relief light up Moira's face when she catches sight of you.

“I thought this was supposed to be a small party!” She hisses, dragging you closer and whispering frantically. “Elton John does not attend small parties!”

"I think," you giggle, hugging her tight, "we've been fuckin' lied to. This is not small in any way."

“No is not.” She huffs, pulling back and grinning at you. “You look beautiful. Is this the dress you’ve been telling me about?”

"What do you think?" It had taken ages to work on because of the oversized folds and pleats, but you finally got the off-the-shoulder beauty to cooperate a few days ago and you give a little twirl for your best friend now. "Do you want one, too? It's so comfy."

“I think it’s gorgeous.” She admits, her fingers touching the dress carefully, as if you had made it from spun gold. “It looks like something you would see on a fashion runway.”

“Flatterer.” And yet you’re beaming. Because something you made with your own two hands, designed from your own pencil and paper, out of your own mind, really does feel exceptional. “I’ll make yours in pink,” you promise her, best your best friend is nothing if not loyal to her favorite color.

“Oh please?” Her eyes brighten and she looks over at her soulmate with nothing but pure adoration. “Jason likes pink too.”

“Pink it is.” You promise, knowing how absolutely perfect it will look on her. Jason will lose his mind.

“You just have to let me pay you.” She chides, wagging her finger at you playfully.

“Never.” And on that point, you stand firm. “One day when it’s a business? Maybe. But for now these are gifts.”

She huffs, glowering at you slightly. “At least let me buy the material?” She asks.

“Fine,” you roll your eyes like it’s a trial but still grin. “You can buy the material for this one.”

“Yay!” She claps her hands together, aware that this is a major victory for you. “We can go shopping soon?” She asks. “If - and it’s a big if - it’s done in time, maybe I can wear it to the premier!”

“I can absolutely have it done for the premiere.” You beam at that suggestion, loving the idea. At this point you’re now making four dresses and two suits so that’s probably all you can manage for one event, but you’re thrilled to do it.

“Are you sure?” She sends you a worried look. “I don’t want you to be stressed out.”

“I’m okay,” you promise. “Compares to what I’m making for myself and for Tamara, this pattern is pretty easy.” And in point of fact? It’s a beautiful feeling to have so many people so eager to wear clothing that you have designed. It feels incredible.

“You know it’s so amazing you are making practically the entire cast’s wardrobe for the red carpet, right?”

“It’s not a big deal.” Even as you say it, it feels like sort of a lie. The best you have is hoping that everyone likes the clothes that you make for them. As long as your friends are happy you couldn’t care less what critics say.

“It’s a very big deal.” She argues. “And you are allowed to be excited about it.”

"Hi everyone!" Alex's voice comes through a speaker system planted around the backyard loud and crystal clear. "Sorry to interrupt everyone's good time, but I'd like to thank you all for coming before we get down to the fun stuff."

“So, thank you.” Everyone has turned towards him and he is about to burst, he is so excited. “Now, the tent is open, if you could please enter and find a seat.” He claps his hands together. “We should get started in about ten minutes.”

There is a little bit of noise and chatter as the confused guests try to guess what could be starting, but since it’s a Hollywood party they’re mostly guessing what could be screened tonight. Maybe Alex has a secret passion project he’s been working on? Who knows.

There are men in resplendent suits, drawing back the flaps of the overly large tent. A big reveal that is as dramatic as it is romantic. To reveal rows of chairs and an aisle leading to a small platform. “Oh god.” It strikes Javi just as soon as he sees it, before the small string orchestra even starts to play.

“Oh…” You grab his hand just a second later, surveying the inside of the enormous tent with wide eyes.

Aisles of wooden chairs are marked with hanging baskets of greenery and large white blossoms. A green carpet runs down the middle aisle and the small platform is framed by the small beautiful green and white florals, and winking fairy lights accent the eaves of the tent’s peaks with elegance.

“Oh my God…” Moira’s hand flies to her chest and water to her eyes. “They’re—?”

“They’re getting married!” You whisper in awe.

“Hey kiddo.”

The soft hum of a deep voice sounds behind you and you whirl around to find your uncle standing there proudly. “Uncle Rick!”

He scoops you up in a hug but motions toward the house. “She asked me to come get you once the announcement was made.”

Javi kisses your hand. “Go.” He urges you. “We will find seats up front.” He promises, aware that you will probably be a little nervous standing beside her, but this is wonderfully gorgeous.

"Te amo." You kiss him quickly before heading off to follow your uncle, thrilled to see him again after ages and ages and under such surprising circumstances.

Billie blows out a breath, nervous and so excited that she can’t keep still as she paces around the guest bedroom that she had turned into her bridal suite. “You look so beautiful.” Her mother coos softly, trying not to make her mascara run again.

"This is the craziest idea we ever could have had." She laughs, pacing again. She hits the end of the room and turns again, and at least this time she's facing her mother. "I'm so excited but it's also completely crazy."

“It’s perfect for the two of you.” She might not have spent much time with Alex Powell, but she knows that they are crazy about each other. He balanced her baby girl out and protects her without crushing those fairy wings she’s had all her life.

"Bills, I swear to god!" You come barreling into the room with your uncle on your heels, but it's all for show. You well up the second you see her shining, gorgeous face, and outright sob a second later.

Your cousin is getting married today and she's wearing the beautiful white peasant dress that she begged you to make for her. The bell-sleeved, Steve Nicks inspired, lacy fairy goddess dress. One of the pieces you're most proud of in your whole life, and she's going to get married in it.

“I know, I know, I couldn’t tell you!” She launches forward to crush you into a hug while she laughs and cries all at the same time. Thank God Alex’s makeup artist had insisted on waterproof eye liner and mascara. “It’s okay, right? That I’m wearing it to get married?”

"Of course it is! It's--it's-- I'm honored and flattered and I'm so happy for you and thank fuck for waterproof makeup!" Both of you are trying so hard not to cry but you know it won't last. Instead you just cling to each other and laugh breathlessly. "You look like a fairy princess." That is the highest commendation you can possible give and you mean it with all your heart.

“That’s what I was going for.” She admits shamelessly. “And the dress- it’s- it’s better than I could have ever imagined.” She admits, stepping back and once again picking up the skirt to twirl around. “It’s like you took my vision and made it better.”

"Has he seen you yet?" She twirls for you and shakes her head and you giggle unabashedly. "He's going to lose his mind, Bils. You look incredible."

“How does he look?” Her eyes go soft and dreamy. Since that night at the hospital, nothing has bothered her at all. At least not where her soulmate is concerned.

Her love is so obvious, worn entirely on her sleeve, and you grin. "Like Cary Grant."

“Cary Grant.” She melts a little and sighs softly. “He perfect, absolutely perfect.”

"Your dad said you wanted me?" You prompt gently. "How can I help, honey? Absolutely anything. The answer is yes."

“Be my maid of honor?” She asks softly, reaching for the bouquet she had made for you to carry.

You basically squeak in response, the two of you squealing and giggling through watery eyes and stuck throats as you throw your arms around each other and share a squeezing tight hug. "Of course I will, honey!"

“I am so glad that you are here.” She manages. “Even though it’s only because of you that I even met Alex!”

"I wouldn't miss this for the world," you promise her. "I'm so glad you found him, honey. And I'm so excited for you to get married today."

She takes a deep breath. “And I’m sorry we didn’t tell you.” She apologizes softly. “We wanted it to be a surprise and Alex didn’t want the press to get wind by accident. Even our event planner’s staff had to sign NDA’s.”

“No apologies necessary. It’s a gorgeous surprise.” As long as she’s happy with how the day goes, you’re happy. And Billie is absolutely ecstatic.

“I wanted this to be perfect and it seems like it is.” She gushes, biting her lip. “We are going to wait to honeymoon, because of the reshoots and ADR stuff for the movie.”

“I think all of us are waiting.” You grin and give her a squeeze. Jason and Moira’s Chicago wedding at his parent’s house is already set and planned for after the premiere, and they have been talking about setting off for somewhere warm after. Santorini or the Azores, knowing Moira. “We’ll have the premiere, all take our honeymoons, and come back to LA just in time for the house to be finished.”

“That’s so exciting.” She turns back to check her reflection one last time. “I’m ready.” She tells you and her mother.

“I’ll go let them know.” Aunt Kay kisses her daughter’s cheeks, beaming as she tries not to cry again. “I’m so proud of you, baby,” she whispers before gliding out the door. She’ll be the one to start things up in the tent, giving you and Billie and Uncle Rick time to get in position downstairs.

Billie turns to you, smiling softly. “Just so you know, mom wants to have a reception for both of us.” She warns. “Her ‘girls need to be celebrated’.” She repeats what your aunt had said. “Because she didn’t get to celebrate with you the first time.”

“I wish I’d known you were here.” You squeeze Billie’s hand before you let her go so she can move back to her father’s side to head downstairs. “We’ll have a family party. All of us together.” Everyone who matters, anyway. Everyone who shares love and support for each other.

“Absolutely.” She agrees, understanding that you don’t want to talk about your mother. “Okay, so I want you to go in ahead of me, obviously.” She tells you as the three of you walk down the hall towards the stairs.

“Does Alex have a best man for me to walk with?” You ask, thanking your past self for your good planning — this dress has pockets and you slip your slim clutch away into the hidden compartment so you can more easily carry the flowers she has handed you.

“His brother is going to be standing beside him, but we decided that you should walk by yourself?” There’s a question in her tone. “Since you are married.”

“Whatever you want,” you promise her. You’d walk with all four of Alex’s brothers if that is what they wanted you to do. As long as it makes them happy.

“I honestly just wanted something simple.” She admits with a grin. “It’s elaborate because of Alex, but he knew exactly what I wanted.”

“We have soulmates with big hearts and big dreams,” you remind your cousin at the bottom of the stairs. “Thankfully we both like having sweet puppy-dog men in our lives.”

“They are perfect for us.” She smiles softly, “even if we didn’t know it at first.” On the outside, she and Alex, you and Javier could not appear more different. However, you mesh so well together, it’s hard to imagine life without the other half of your being.

The ceremony is perfect. Heartfelt words and smatterings of laughter are punctuated with tears, just like a wedding should be. Most of the guests are so shocked at the turn of events that they either sit in awe or cheer raucously, and when Alex's pastor father pronounces them man and wife the applause is unmatched in its joy.

Billie is glowing, her smile wider and brighter than the sun’s rays as she turns to the crowd and lifts her bouquet up.

There are enough young, unmarried, excited guests to amass a crowd, and that crowd is making a hell of a lot of noise as Billie playfully takes aim over their heads. Jason encourages Moira into the mix even though they already have a plan, because he loves to see the giddy grin on her face. Alex's youngest brother's girlfriend joins the fray. There are even a few celebrities you recognize amongst the group. It makes it all the more entertaining when Billie lets her beautiful white and green bouquet fly and the fracas of guests goes wild.

Javi laughs as one of the girls gets tackled in the attempt to catch the bouquet and lets out a wail when she realizes that the greenery isn’t in her hands. He winks at you when you glance at him from your position at the altar.

If it had been you down there putting stock in the superstition, you would have been just as upset not to come out victorious. As it stands, you follow Billie and Alex up aisle with Alex's brother trailing behind you, and step out again into the bright sunlight with you cousin and brand new cousin-in-law.

“You are my favorite person in the world beside my bride, right now.” Alex turns towards you and folds you into a tight hug. “You brought me my soulmate.”

"I will happily take second place," you laugh, returning the hug full force. "Welcome to the family, bud. We're glad to have you."

“Thank you.” He whispers softly. Family is all he really cares about, even his career is second place. He’s become successful despite putting his family first and now that extends to you and Javi.

"You've got the best girl in the whole world." Giving him one more squeeze, you step back to let Alex and Billie come together again. "I hope you know that."

“Without a singular doubt.” He promises, wrapping his hand around her waist and dropping another proud kiss on her lips. “Now we just need to take a million photos.” He teases her with a wink. “For the kids.”

"Always for the children," you laugh.

"Always," Billie agrees, before she looks back at you. She really is beaming so much brighter than the sun. "Do you want to go and grab Javi? He belongs in the family photos, too."

“I’m right here.” Javi steps forward, having been talking with your aunt and uncle as they made their way out of the tent. The other guests have been guided towards the charcuterie buffet for the cocktail hour while family photos are taken.

"Mi amor." In the unexpected light of another wedding, you move to his side like a magnet. "What do you say? Come and take some photos with us?"

“Absolutely.” He smiles as he reaches out to shake Alex’s hand. “Cousin.” He hums with a chuckle. “I was shocked to find out what this day was, but I’m happy for you both.”

"We didn't want everyone to make a fuss about it." Alex beams, waving everyone over to a separate part of the garden with a particularly beautiful little copse of trees. "We wanted to have a party with everyone we love. We make the fuss, and you all just arrive."

“It was perfect.” Javi assures him. “Now we will make sure that it’s a party everyone will remember for the rest of their lives.”

"I couldn’t agree more." Alex grins, lays another kiss on top of Billie's head, and lets the photographer take over. His family and Billie's family amount to a sizable number of people when all is said and done, and it really does take the better part of an hour before you're all ready to rejoin the rest of the guests. Thankfully, the beautiful fruit trees on their new property provide the perfect backdrop for pictures.

“Can we have one more photo?” Billie asks, turning back to you and Javi. “Just us, and you two?” She asks softly. “I promise this is the last one.”

You tut, doing exactly as she says and moving back into place with Javi at your side. "You can have as many as you want, honey. It's your wedding day."

A few snaps of the photographer’s camera gets the exactly shot that Billie wants. Something that she will frame and keep on the wall as a favorite wedding memory. The people responsible for bringing her the soulmate she was worried she would never meet, beaming together on the perfect day.

------ Master Tags: @pixiedurango @chattychell @winter-fox-queen @lady-himbo @artsymaddie @princess76179 @paintballkid711 @missminkylove @pedrosbrat @ew-erin @sarahjkl82-blog @sharkbait77 @justanotherblonde23 @lv7867 @recklesswit @mylittlesenaar @f0rever15elf @gallowsjoker @steeevienicks @athalien @sherala007 @skvatnavle @thatpinkshirt @jaime1110 @girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @goodgriefitsawildworld @greeneyedblondie44 @littlemousedroid @harriedandharassed @churchill356 @ajathegreats-blog @haylzcyon   @beardsanddetectives @kirsteng42 @ladykatakuri @adancedivasmom @madiebear @tanzthompson @emilianamason @bigsdinger @xocalliexo @pedr0swh0r3 @avaleineandafryingpan @charlyrmv @avidreader73 @iceclaw101 @loveslide @elegantduckturtle @becsworld @julesonrecord @its-nebuleuse @itsrubberbisquit @mikeyswifie @guelyury @lizzie-cakes @for-a-longlongtime @vabeachazn @purplerain04 @weho2kcmo @madnessofadaydreamer

TUWOP: @inept-the-magnificent @missladym1981 @sunnytuliptime @iamladyp @spishsstuff @famouslyanonymous

[purplerain04]

[purplerain04]

Sending love to everyone who is just... tired. Life is a lot, and sometimes the answer to it all is to just be still and silent for a while. Give yourself space and grace. Whether it’s decision fatigue, anxiety fatigue, information fatigue, routine fatigue, getting life back together fatigue, career fatigue, social fatigue, financial fatigue, or physical fatigue—take a moment to breathe and recharge. You deserve it.

[purplerain04]

PEDRO PASCAL as Harry Castillo MATERIALISTS 2025 | dir. Celine Song

[purplerain04]

Begin again

Here's my story for @jolapeno 's April Showers Challenge 2.0. I wasn't sure if I could participate this year, but Frankie decided to pester me with this idea. I went for prompt 15, a kiss in the rain.🤭

@schnarfer! Thanks for being a wonderful writing buddy!😍 And to my friends @thundermartini @thedilfdiaries and @encasedinobsidian for being so supportive!♥️

Masterlist// AO3

pairing: Frankie Morales x fem! able-bodied reader summary: The night looks beyond repair, or perhaps not. word count: 1300 tags/warnings: a bit of angst, fluff, and a kiss in the rain.

Frankie carries his blazer over their heads while they run -an improvised umbrella, a foolish try, that barely protects them. They move in tandem. With her arm across his back, grabbing his shirt to keep them close and using their bodies to stop the chill from biting them as they seek shelter, splashing water with each stride.

It had ambushed them as they strolled, silently leaving the restaurant behind and walking unconsciously towards his truck. Barely giving them any warning, breaking through the stormy clouds which had conquered the sky while they ate, obscuring the moon and covering the few stars that could overpower the city lights.

A handful drops at the beginning. A drizzle. Dampening their skin before it truly unfolded, quickly becoming a waterfall, a downpour thick enough to blur the silhouettes of the buildings and create rivers and puddles in the street, needing no more than a couple of minutes to soak them to the bone.

The final blow to their terrible first date, to all the unfruitful attempts to hold a conversation and step out of the awkwardness that had seized them as soon as their eyes had met. Souring his already bitter temper.

"There," she says, loud enough for him to hear her amid the thunderous pattering surrounding them, pointing at the balconies from an apartment building.  

They reach them fast, with their hair disheveled and clothes completely drenched, giving Frankie the space to put distance between them. He glares at the rain, putting on his blazer again, overwhelmed by his anger. The self-doubt. The guilt and regret for destroying the spark that had ignited between them, suffocating it before it had time to become a fire and grow. It claws and seethes between his ribs, expanding and taking control, questioning everything - every emotion, glance, and word exchanged last Sunday at Will’s barbecue after he had introduced them. Tearing his confidence, crushing down the excitement he had felt as they talked in the hushed kitchen, both slipping inside through different doors at the same time, seeking a reprieve from the gathering and filling its walls with their banter.

"Uh, you said you came in a cab, right?" He asks, breaking the silence, finally daring to gaze at her as she nods at him and hugs herself, looking small, uncomfortable, stabbing him, making him hate himself for putting her in this situation.

He had heard of her before the barbecue -gotten peeks of who she was for weeks, a friend of Will's girl who had recently moved and of whom he hadn't spared her any extra thought. Believing that meeting her wouldn't change a thing. But he had been wrong. They had clicked effortlessly, unlocking something unexpected. Something that he had never felt before, a potential that shimmered between them as she bewitched him with her wit, her smiles, her eyes, her curves, thrilling him and driving him to ask her for a date and her number.

Only to destroy it tonight, allow his insecurities to take root and control him as soon as he had dressed up. Stumbling constantly as his dress pants itched him and the collar of his ironed shirt suffocated him, being curt, giving one-word answers to her questions, barely hearing what she said over the blood thrumming in his ears.

"Can I drive you home? My truck is just one street down. And make up for this disaster?” He urges, sighing, scratching his neck as he stares at his shoes -not brave enough to hold her eyes, not ready to see her pity and regret. “Fuck… I'm sorry." 

"I’m sorry.” Her voice merging with his captures his attention and drives his gaze to hers. She keeps talking, with her arms still crossed over her chest, while he stands dumbstruck, with his blush flaring, covering his neck and cheeks. "I was so nervous. It's been a long time since I've had a date. And the restaurant…"

"You didn't like it?" He questions, inviting her to finish her thought, curious as his fingers twitch with longing, desirous of soothing the frown spreading between her brows, the lower lip she's chewing, and reassure her, tell her that she is safe, that she can trust him.

The restaurant had been beautiful, with gold trimmings flattering the emerald walls and dim lights to invite intimacy. Not for him -too opulent, too crowded. And now, hopefully, not for her, either. 

"It was so posh," she whispers, covering her mouth as the words slip from her teeth and her eyes round with surprise. Unable to conceal her shock, gaping at him as a hearty laugh breaks from him. Elated, feeling at ease for the first time tonight, free from his doubts, his remorse, thanks to her.

“The food was delicious. And I'm grateful. But there were so many people. And I felt so guilty about the prices… Don't laugh at me, Frankie. Please," she pleads, huffing, growing bashful at his reaction, "I'm horrible.”

"You're not. I'm not laughing at you." He steps closer, emboldened by her confession, missing her warmth, grabbing her wrist and squeezing it gently. "I swear. I'm just relieved. Santi," he says, explaining himself. “I shouldn't have listened to him. He... uh... He convinced me it was the best place to make a good impression. The owner is a friend of Yovanna. I hated it, too. I don't understand how they can like it so much."

“Oh.”

It's her turn to giggle. Softly, breathless -like velvet to his ears- enchanting him, making his heart somersault as her lips turn upwards till her smile reaches her irises, brimming with delight.

"What about a redo?" She offers, surprising him.

"A redo?" She nods and moves closer with a shrug, encouraging him, not hiding her desire, "When?"

"Now? I mean… I love to sit on my back porch when it rains. And I have chocolate ice cream in my freezer.”

He tugs her then, adoring her squeal, and destroys the last inches between them with their hands against his chest.

Resting his forehead against hers, he smells her unhurriedly, inhales her scent, her natural sweetness, the traces of a floral perfume mixed with the aroma of the rain, the earthy hints saturating the atmosphere. 

"Can we have pizza, too? I'm still hungry. The portions were so small." His complaints thieve another giggle from her, and he soars with bliss, gazing at her, memorizing her open expression, her honesty, he’s awed, disbelieving of his luck, that she still wants him, that he hasn't ruined their chance.

"We can. But," her nose scrunches in apparent disgust, though the glint in her irises reveals her mischief, and dares him to play, "Will you want pineapple?" 

He sways them, a dance with no music, squeezing the flesh of her hip, feeling her melt to his touch while he replies to her with a growl, a promise, dark and alluring.

"Hermosa (Beautiful). If you want that on the pizza, we’re done." 

Bumping their noses, she smirks, entwines their fingers, and buries her nails in his damp curls, scratching his scalp and swallowing his purr, "You have a deal."

She attacks faster than him, with no need to hunt, for he's willing prey. Pressing her lips to his. A delicate peck that becomes ravenous for more. A first. A last first, if he's lucky. Spurring him on. Humming at tempo with her as he cradles her jaw and nibbles her lips, sucks them, teases them with his tongue, licks their seam and her tongue. A heated caress. A dance. Growling in pleasure as he drowns in her taste. Again and again, till the joy is too much to contain and puts a pause. Leaving him breathless, dizzy, with their mouths curling, beaming.

"Are you up for a run, Francisco?"

She doesn't wait, kissing his nose before he can answer, shrieking as the rain hits her again, dragging him with her as she starts to run.

He is more than happy to follow her, eager to discover what tonight and their futures may bring them. 

Npt (because there was interest on my WIPs and some moots who might like it) @milla-frenchy @aurorawritestoescape @almostfoxglove @burntheedges @maggiemayhemnj

@604to647 @yxtkiwiyxt. @baronessvonglitter @jennaispunk @sixhours

[purplerain04]

My Best Friend's Wedding {Javi Gutierrez x F!Reader}

Rating: Explicit

Word Count: 18.5k

Warnings: Flirting, set ups by best friends, hook up, closet sex, wedding sex, unprotected sex, Javi G is dirty and you love it, oral sex (female receiving), mentions of extreme wealth, dating

Comments: Coming in for your best friend's wedding, you meet Javi Gutierrez, her new husband's best friend. Best Man and Maid of Honor for the evening leading to something you never expected.

A/N: HEAVILY influenced by the trailer for Materalists

Co-written with @storiesofthefandomlovers

**Follow @absurdthirst-writes and turn on notifications to stay up to date on all new fics.

|| MasterList || Javi Gutierrez MasterList ||

Click Keep Reading only if you have read the Rating and Warnings and understand the warnings may not be complete to avoid listing spoilers. As AO3 says 'creator chooses not to use warnings'. You also agree that you're the right age to be consuming anything here.

“Oh my God. Where are the flowers? My bouquet?” Your best friend, Ruby, asks in a panic as she looks around the bridal suite. “They are here.” You gesture to the table behind her where the flowers are waiting for her. She sighs in relief and you grin, walking over to her now that she’s in her gown. “You look gorgeous. He’s gonna know he hit the jackpot.” You coo, reaching for her shaking hands. “Thanks. I - I’m so glad you’re here.” She confesses and you smile, “wouldn’t be anywhere else.” You nearly didn’t make it. Coming home from working in L.A had meant a delayed flight made you miss the rehearsal dinner but you flew in on the red eye, exhausted by ready to stand by your friend's side as she marries the man she loves. “Did you meet Javi?” She asks and you shake your head, “not yet. You mentioned he was coming back from L.A too?” She nods, “he’s a screenwriter. Became a producer. He’s big over there but he lives in New York.” She reminds you and you snort, “he clearly didn’t come in on the same flight as me.” Ruby bites her lip, smothering her chuckle, “yeah. He doesn’t really worry about delays.” You roll your eyes, “lucky bastard. I’ll meet him when I walk down the aisle.” You giggle, “now…let’s put on the finishing touches and get you married!” You declare and the other bridesmaids squeal their excitement.

Javi watches as Aaron paces nervously around the groom’s suite. A little jealous of the love and excitement that is shining in his friend’s eyes. Today he is marrying the love of his life and Javi couldn’t even bring a date. Well, he could have, but no one with substance. No one that wants him beyond that wallet he has in his tuxedo pocket. He chuckles and moves over to the groom, stopping him mid pace to adjust his bow tie and flowers that are pinned to his lapel. “Never imagined this day when we were in boarding school together.” He admits with a smile. “Lucky bastard.”

Aaron nods, “aren’t I? She’s - I’m so fucking in love with her I feel like I’m gonna puke right now.” He confesses, “and I have only drank one beer.” The other groomsmen tried to get him to have a shot or two but Aaron refused and Javi put a stop to it, wanting the groom to be sober when he says “I do.” The wedding planner appears moments later and grins when she says “it’s time boys.” Javi pats Aaron on the chest and the groom inhales deeply before making his way through the halls to the doors that lead to the nave. The doors open to expose the crowd and Aaron smiles and waves to his friends and family as he makes his way down the aisle to wait for his bride to make her entrance. “Any minute now.” Javi murmurs, embroidered handkerchief ready for his friend. He knows he will have tears when he sees Ruby. 

**** 

You fumble with your flowers, checking the bride over and she looks at you, hands shaking a little. “You’re gorgeous. He’s definitely going to cry.” You tease and she scoffs playfully, “he’d better.” You chuckle and she steps back to stand with her father just as the wedding planner cues the music. The bridesmaids line up and you wink at Ruby before you make your way down the long aisle to where Aaron is waiting for her.

Javi watches with a smile on his face as the bridesmaids file down the aisle. He met all but the maid of honor. Ruby had been worried that you might miss the entire wedding, so much so that Javi had honestly thought she was going to be sick. You come into sight and he’s struck by how beautiful you are, a vision in the soft pink dresses that Ruby had chosen for her bridesmaids. Accent by glittery ruby pendant necklaces that had been her gifts to her best friends for being there on her special day.

You take your position at the end of the line of bridesmaids and your eyes drift over to Javi, the best man you’ve yet to meet, and holy shit. Ruby never mentioned how hot he is. You’ve always been weak for men that can pull off a mustache. You shuffle in your heels, trying to focus back on the wedding and not how much you want to jump the best man. You don’t know much about him but you know he’s gorgeous. He offers you a smile and a small wave that has you melting and you wave back, “hi.” You mouth just as the song changes and Ruby begins to make her entrance.

It’s hard to drag his gaze away from you, but Ruby and Aaron deserve this moment. They have waited for it for so long and he turns to watch the bride make her way down the aisle towards his best friend. Aaron chokes out a small sob and Javi is right there, quietly pressing the handkerchief into his palm.

You have tears in your eyes as you watch Aaron’s reaction to Ruby. You sniff, taking her flowers and you grin, ridiculously happy for her. They’ve been planning this wedding for so long and you’ve helped her with every detail. Spending nights on FaceTime while you worked overseas or across the country. You can’t believe they are finally getting married. You watch them join hands and focus on them as they go through the ceremony while crying, laughing, and finally kissing when the priest declares them husband and wife.

Javi claps and laughs happily as Aaron makes a loud whoop of happiness, lifting his and Ruby’s entangled hands up in the air. The happy couple sprints down the aisle and now Javi gets to approach you and offer his arm. “So you are the elusive best friend.” He jokes as you take his arm and the two of you quickly follow behind the bride and groom to rush to take photos.

You chuckle as you stride down the aisle, “busy more than elusive. I nearly didn’t make it because of a delay at LAX but I would’ve hired a private jet if I could’ve to make sure I was here for them.” You joke, “it’s nice to finally meet you, Javi.” You offer him a soft smile as you walk through the church doors and onto the street where the cars are waiting to take you to the reception but not before you are whisked off for photos.

Javi sits next to you as you ride through the streets and wonders why you weren’t at the engagement party. “What do you do?” He asks, twisting his body towards you. “That keeps you on the road so much?”

He’s so handsome and he oozes charm in a way that makes your skin tingle. It’s alarming how charismatic he is, dark eyes soft and focused on you. “I’m a photographer. Mainly I do photography for sets…like movies, tv shows. Takes me all over the place.” You confess, “but it’s my passion. Even if it means I pay for a New York apartment that I barely use.” You chuckle, “what about you? Ruby said you were just in L.A?”

He is surprised and delighted that you work adjacent to his own field. Even if you don’t recognize him, that’s even better for him. He nods. “Visitng the west coast reminds me of home.” He explains. “My family is from Mallorca, we lived right on the cliffs overlooking the Balearic Seas.”

You smile, enjoying the look on his face as he thinks of his home. "I've never been but I hear it's gorgeous." You look down at his hands, noticing the lack of a ring, and you bite your lip, "you came to the wedding without a plus one too?"

“No date.” He shakes his head and chuckles. “Although a certain member of the wedding party has been talked about continuously.” He admits, leaning closer and grinning mischievously. “I think our friends were hoping we might have a spark.”

You snort, nodding, "oh yes. The bride has not stopped talking about the handsome best man and...and I don't think she was exaggerating about how handsome he is." You confess, "they were definitely plotting to hook us up today."

His eyes sparkle and he takes your compliment to heart. “Perhaps we should indulge them?” He ponders. “It is their wedding day. It should be exactly what they wish.”

You haven't had sex in a while...not since your last boyfriend broke up with you because you were gone too much for work. Javier is sexy and charming - you could definitely do worse to break your dry spell. "Let's see how the day goes. A girl needs a little wooing." You tease, winking at him despite knowing you're definitely going to fuck him later.

He can agree with that, smirking slightly as he picks up your hand and kisses the back of it softly. “And wooed you shall be.” He promises.

Your skin tingles from where he kissed you and you lean back into the seat, knowing this wedding is going to be fun with Javier at your side. You arrive at the reception, a beautiful building that will also be the setting for the photos and Javier opens the door, holding his hand out to you to help you out of the car. "What a gentleman." You coo and he chuckles, "most of the time." You giggle and his hand is on your lower back as he guides you into the building where the bride and groom are waiting.

The venue is opulent, gorgeously decorated and Javi is impressed by the choices Aaron and Ruby have made for this. “Shall we get a drink once we ‘arrive’?” He asks. “What is your drink of choice?”

You like how he hovers close and you tilt your head towards him after you admire the decor. Months of Facetime discussions between you and Ruby now come to life and it's perfect. "Champagne." You smile, "or prosecco. I don't mind. Anything bubbly."

“Anything bubbly.” He repeats, making note of that. “I think that we can take care of that.” He guides you over to the doorway so you can take your place behind the other bridesmaids and groomsmen, the bridal party entering before the happy couple. He notices your dress is caught and he stops you. “Wait” he tells you, bending down to gently untangle your dress so you don’t trip or rip the bottom.

Your heart flutters as he kneels down in front of you to untangle your dress. “Truly you’re a gentleman, Javi.” You smile, taking his arm that he offers you after he stands up straight. The band plays the entrance music and you grin as you enter the reception to cheers and applause.

The table for the bridal party is just off to the side of the bride and groom’s table so he leads you towards it. Finding your names on the placards, he smirks to himself as he notices that they put the two of you next to one another. Once you set down your bouquet, the DJ announces that the guest should stand for the introduction of Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Rodriguez.

You turn and clap, cheering as your friends make their grand entrance. You feel Javier next to you as he whistles and claps, making your stomach twist with lust for the best man. It’s a cliche but you know you won’t be able to resist him tonight. The happy couple walk in and over to the dance floor, the band changing the song to a slow love song that Ruby had changed her mind on a thousand times until Aaron reminded her of a song that played on their first date. It was romantic and immediately melted your best friend. “They look so in love.” You murmur, clasping your hands together on your chest.

“I’m jealous.” Javi admits. “Not of them personally, but for what they have.” He watches them gaze into each other’s eyes, only focused on each other while the entire room is watching them. “They love each other, are committed to each other and now they are going to build their life together.”

You nod, shifting your hand to his upper arm, feeling how strong he is under his beautifully tailored suit. “I know.” You sigh softly, “it’s so hard to find someone in this day and age. Hell, I’ve tried every dating app there is, even considered a matchmaker, but I’ll know him when I find him.” You smile, watching Aaron kiss Ruby softly, and you turn to see Javi looking at you. His dark eyes burn into yours and your mouth is dry. You barely know him but he’s sending you into a frenzy.

The dance comes to an end and the clapping pulls his attention away. “We should probably get that drink.” He admits, voice a little raspy with an emotion that he shouldn’t voice right now.

You nod, your throat dry from watching your friends dance and they make their way over to the sweetheart table while Javi tells you to sit down and he will get your drink. You nod, thanking him, and watching as he walks off, disappearing through the throngs of people. “Goddamn.” Aly, one of your fellow bridesmaids and sister to the groom comments, “you look like you’re in love.” You scoff, turning to look at her, “I’ve only just met him.” She smirks, leaning closer, “well he looks like he wants to eat you up and I know Javi, he isn’t one to make moves for no reason. Trust me, I should know.” You bite your lip, wondering if you’re enough for him when Aly is available. Maybe he’s interested in her. She’s gorgeous and from generational wealth and she has known Javier most of her life.

Javi turns towards the room after he orders the champagne Aaron had ordered for the day. It’s an especially good vintage and had been flown in from France. Spotting you talking to Aly. When you glance his way, he smiles and gives you a little wave, hoping that Aly isn’t telling you too much about him. He would much rather develop this relationship naturally.

When he waves, you can’t help but wave back. He is so handsome, you can’t even believe that he seems interested in you. Aly is soon distracted by one of the groomsmen, and you sit there watching the crowd until Javier returns with your glass of champagne. “You are a godsend.“ You groan when you take the glass from his hand, his thick fingers brushing yours. His answering smile makes your heartbeat flutter and he sits down beside you before he turns towards you and says, “a toast, to new love and old love.” You smile and clink your glass against his before you take a sip of your drink.

Javi watches you, admiring the way your neck tilts back as the bubbly champagne slides down your throat. The lipstick you are wearing leaves a smudge on the glass and he can’t help but wish that same color was on his lips from your kisses. “So after the wedding, where are you off to next?” He asks, putting his own champagne down after a sip and leaning in to listen to you.

You set your glass down, “I’m here actually. I’m covering some movies being filmed in the city.” You love how he tilts his head and crosses his legs. “What about you? Any trips to L.A planned?”

“I was planning on spending a little time in the city myself.” He admits and opens his hands slightly. “Work.” He shrugs. “I should be back in L.A in a month or two.”

You nod, glad that he’s not jetting off around the world, “what do you do for work?” He rubs his jaw, looking away from you for a moment before his dark eyes meet yours. “I’m a writer.” Your eyebrows raise, “wow. Like novels or television?” You inquire and he smiles, “whatever I can get my hands on.” He says vaguely and you hum, realizing that he probably doesn’t want to talk about work at his best friend’s wedding. The food is now being served and you sit properly, watching the bridal party take their seats as you wait for your dinner selection. “What did you pick?” You ask Javi and he smirks, “the steak. Obviously.” You chuckle, “I got the chicken.”

“Chicken is good.” He would rather the steak, but the servers start to deliver the meals. So he leans back and glances around the room. “Hopefully the reception is just as lovely as the wedding.” He offers. “Are they doing the traditional bouquet toss and garter toss?” He asks you.

You nod as you pick up your glass of champagne, “yes. She wanted everything to be really traditional. I like it. I prefer things that are timeless.” You confess, “and Ruby felt the same.” You glance around at the gorgeous reception, the center pieces you helped her choose alongside her mom. The food soon arrives and everyone in the bridal party table is talking about the after party once the happy couple have taken their leave. “We could go to a club.” Aly suggests and you snort, “we’d have to change.” She nods in agreement and soon, the DJ is announcing the speeches. “I’m up first.” You inhale deeply, nervous for the speech. “You’re going to be great.” Javier promises and you nod, exhaling shakily as you grab your notes. You make your way to stand next to the bride and groom, taking the microphone. “I first met Ruby when we were eight and one of the first things we talked about was what we wanted our weddings to look like.” You smile, looking at your best friend, “the flowers, the dress, the cake…we just didn’t know who the groom would be. Well, I think she found the perfect groom too. Aaron, I couldn’t ask for a better husband for my best friend. A best friend for my best friend. I am still waiting for my wedding day…painfully single so the only cake I’m picking is the slice of the day from Whole Foods.” You joke and the crowd chuckles, “but I’m so happy to see you enjoying the day we planned so many years ago. In fact, it’s better than we planned. I wish you both all the happiness in the world. To Aaron and Ruby.” You toast, holding your champagne glass up.

“To Aaron and Ruby!” Javi joins the rest of the crowd in the toast and takes a sip before he stands up to make his own speech. Straightening his tuxedo jacket and smiling at you as he walks up to the microphone. He leans in and gives you a small hug and kisses your cheek before you go to sit back down. “The maid of honor had the perfect speech so I will just say…..ditto.” He jokes, making the audience laugh before he shifts and rubs his nose. “I’ve known Aaron for a long time. We met in boarding school. God, what a time.” He snorts. “But he had a plan for survival. He had a plan for everything it seems. Aaron has always known what he wanted. Ever since we were little boys. He always knew he wanted to build skyscrapers and he does.” He smiles at his friend, nodding at him in approval. “He always knew that he wanted to travel the world, which he has.” He sighs softly. “And most importantly, he always knew he wanted to marry the perfect woman for him and live happily ever after. Just like it’s a Disney movie.” He looks at Ruby and smiles. “And that’s what he’s done today. He’s married a woman that is completely perfect for him and as jealous as I am to say this, today is the first day of happily ever after.” He holds up his glass. “To happily ever after and all the joy it can bring you.”

You lift your glass, eyes a little glassy from the emotions of his speech and you hug him when he returns to your table. “That was incredible.” You compliment him, taking your seats to watch the other speeches. You watch the wedding planner grab a chair and bring it to the dance floor, the singer announcing the garter toss and Aaron takes Ruby’s hand to guide her over to the dance floor and lets her sit down. She looks mortified as he kneels, ducking under her dress to find the garter. The crowd whistles and cheers when he finds it and the singer calls all the single men to the dance floor.

“I guess that means I have to go.” He sighs as he puts down his drink, but there’s a smirk on his face as he stands. “See you in a minute after I catch it.” He promises with a wink before he’s joining the other men in the middle of the floor.

You can’t believe that he is single. He’s funny, handsome, smart, and unbelievably sexy from what you have known of him so far. You watch him as he strides onto the dance floor and the singer counts down for Aaron to throw the garter into the crowd of men behind him. You watch as Javier‘s hand comes up above the crowd, victorious smile on his face, and you clap for him. The crowd whistles and cheers, and Javier turns to you and winks, making your heart flutter once again. He comes over to you, garter in hand, and you giggle, “ I can’t believe you caught it!“ Javier grins, wanting to give it back to Aaron as he tucks it into his jacket, “You’re up next.“ You nod and watch as Ruby prepares to throw her bouquet. The wedding singer calls up the single ladies and you place yourself in the crowd, watching Ruby wink to you as she turns and prepares to throw the flowers over her head. You don’t really fight for them but within a blink of an eye, they land in your hands and your jaw drops.

Javi sticks his fingers in his mouth and whistles before clapping and cheering with the rest of the ballroom. “If the best man - who caught the garter - will come forward,” The dj’s tone is amused and warm, “it’s time to claim your dance with the maid of honor, coincidentally the catcher of the bouquet.” Javi chuckles, wondering if somehow this has been set up as he stands and makes his way out to where you are standing with the bouquet.

You fluster, handing the bouquet back to Ruby who is beaming as Javier walks over to you and holds his hand out which you take. You inhale sharply when he pulls you close as the music starts. Your hand in his as your other hand grips his shoulder. Your heart pounds as his cologne hits your nose as he starts to sway you.

“Fancy seeing you here.” He teases, a broad smile on his face as he moves you around the dance floor. You fit perfectly in his arms. You giggle slightly and he finds it charming. “Do you think they planned this too? Or is it just the stars aligning tonight?”

“It definitely seems like the universe wants to put us together.” You hum, watching as other couples join you on the dance floor after the singer announces it and you lean into him a little more, “it’s like a movie.” You confess, knowing you’ve watched more than your fair share of rom coms.

“It does.” He agrees with a soft smile. “And I love movies.” He admits with a small chuckle. “Especially the ones that have a happy ending. What about you?” He takes a chance and grips you a little tighter before he dips your body down and makes the room burst out in applause.

Your hands squeeze him as your eyes meet his when he dips you, and he smoothly spins you after you stand, bringing you back into his chest in a manner that would make most professional dancers jealous. You’re not used to being the center of attention. Always in the background taking photos. “Javi!” You giggle, deciding to take a chance and slide your hand up to the back of his neck, playing with the curls that aren’t slicked back at the nape. “I love a happy ending.” You tease, feeling bolder as his hand slides lower down your back.

His lips curve a little more, the twinkle in his eyes becomes slightly naughty and he leans into you. His nose touching yours and his breath washing over your lips. “So do I, sweetheart.” He promises. Your fingers feel perfect, tangled into his hair and he would throw caution to the wind and kiss you, but the song ends right as he licks his lips.

Your chest heaves as you stay locked together for a few moments as the crowd around you applauds and another song begins. You want him. You want him now. He's intoxicating and you know this is selfish but the bride and groom are talking to their guests and you have no more duties. You take Javier's hand from your waist, "come with me." You order as you start to guide him off the dance floor and through the reception until you are in the hall.

He doesn’t ask you where you are taking him, pretty sure of the destination. Or a general idea. There was a moment, a spark, between the two of you on the dance floor and from the way you are rushing, you are just as eager as he is. “Don’t hurt yourself running in those heels.” He hums. “We have all night.”

You chuckle at his concern, guiding him down the hall to the coat closet that hasn't been used since it's a warm day, and you pull the door open. After flicking on the light, you drag him inside and shut the door. Your chest heaves, the music from the reception now muffled as you face him. His dark eyes are focused on you and intense. The room is musty from being out of use for the summer months and dust swirls in the air. He doesn't make a move and that makes your stomach twist, wondering if you've made a mistake. "I don't do this kind of thing so I might've-" He cuts you off by grabbing the back of your neck, dragging you towards him as his lips press against yours. You squeak into his mouth in surprise until you melt, wrapping your arms around his neck to return his kiss and deepen it.

He had given you a chance to change your mind. To decide this wasn’t what you wanted, but when you started talking, he had to kiss you. Groaning into your mouth when you melt against him and start to kiss him back. He turns you and presses you against the wall of the closet, crowding you against it and letting you feel the length of his body and the rapidly hardening arousal that is now heavy against your core as he licks into your mouth.

You moan at the way he’s pressing against you, your entire body on fire from his touch and he’s only kissed you. His tongue presses against your lips and you eagerly open, sliding your tongue against his as you slide your hands down his back and under his jacket, pushing on it to get it off his shoulders so you can touch more of him. He grunts, letting go of you, his tongue caressing yours as he leans his body so he can remove his suit jacket, and your hands find his back again, caressing the strong muscles beneath the crisp white shirt.

Javi feels drunk but he hasn’t even finished one glass of champagne. His hands slide down to your ass and he breaks away from your lips to kiss along your jaw. “What do you want, sweetheart?” He coos, voice thick and raspy with desire. “Tell me what you need.”

The kisses pressed to your jaw combined with his raspy, lust tinged voice, has your core clenching around nothing. “Oh God.” You moan, “I need you to fuck me.” You plead, wanting to feel him, all of him, and you slide your hand down his chest to squeeze his cock through his pants.

It’s Javi’s turn to moan, twitching in your grip as you rub his cock through the expensive material of his tuxedo pants. “Good.” He pants, squeezing your ass and then starting to bunch your dress up. “Because I want to fuck you.” He confesses. “Wanted to from the second I saw you.”

The way his voice has deepened makes you wetter and you let him drag your dress up while you work on his belt buckle, wanting to touch him. You don’t have time to strip off but you want to see his face when you start to pump his cock. “I thought you were the sexiest man I’ve ever seen.” You confess breathlessly as his hands squeeze your bare ass.

Your fingers are soft and perfect around his cock, making him groan as you start to stroke him. Proud that you are just as attracted to him as he is to you. He had pretty good instincts about things and he knows you are exactly what he needs. “No panties.” He teases, sliding his hand down your thigh to pull it up on his hip. “Didn’t want lines or hoping to get fucked in a coat closet tonight?”

He's thick, velvet covered steel in your hand, and you know it's going to sting a little to take him without more foreplay but you're impatient. "Both." You tease back, loving he back and forth between you, "imagined being the cliche of best man and maid of honor fucking and it manifested. Lucky for me you are the sexiest man here." You lean in to kiss his jaw, "want you inside me, Javi. I'm clean. I have an IUD. I trust you." You promise against his neck.

Javi groans as you squeeze him again. “Are you ready?” He pants, turning and kissing you. He knows he’s larger than some and he doesn’t want to hurt you. “Yes.” You moan, guiding him towards your core and he lifts your leg higher on his hip. “I’m clean.” He promises, knowing this is risky, but he knows he can trust you. You wouldn’t be friends with Ruby and by extension- Aaron - if you weren’t.

When he starts to push into you, you shift your hand to his shoulder, clinging to him. He’s thick and it stings a little but you don’t care. You need him inside you. “Fuck.” You puff against his lips, relaxing as he stretches you out, and you press your lips to his chin.

He can tell that you need a second. Cooing softly, “fuck, that’s it. I need a second, baby.” His own lips start a line of kisses along your cheek. “So perfect around me, give me a moment before I explode.”

His honesty has you giggling and you run your fingers through his styled hair, unable to help yourself. "Take your time, handsome." You murmur, sighing when his lips kiss your neck and down to your shoulder, helping you take more of him when he gives a small rock of his hips.

You make a small sound of pleasure and he sighs against your pulse. This could turn into something slower but this isn’t the time or the place for it. “Ready?” He asks softly, his voice raspy with need.

“Please.” You beg softly, clinging to him, your heel digging into his ass as he squeezes your thigh. When he pulls his hips back, your eyes flutter closed at the sensation, but when he pushes back in, harder, your eyes open and you moan his name. “Shit. Yes. More.” You plead, wanting him to fuck you.

Your moan of pure need sets him off. Making him want to hear more of your sounds. He sets the pace with sharp and quick thrusts, not wanting to pull too far away as he starts rocking into you.

You cling to him, moans concealed within the coat closet and he starts to fuck you in a way that has you wetter, taking him easier. “Javi. You - you’re so big.” You moan your compliment into his jaw while his hands squeeze your flesh.

He grunts, loving how you compliment him and stroke his neck as he rocks into you. You are amazing and feel incredible around him. He can feel how you squeeze him every time he pushes deep. "You are perfect." He pants.

His praise makes your heart pound and you whimper when he adjusts your thigh on his hip and sinks deeper inside you. "Oh God." You pant, fingers digging into his suit jacket, "yes. Shit. Feel so good." You moan your praise, loving how he twitches inside you with every sweet word you give him.

He loves how you whimper and moan for him. It spurs him on. Holding onto your body and bracing you up shit the wall while pushing into you again and again. There’s something scandalous about this, you could be discovered at any moment. He slides his tongue into your mouth as he groans.

You curl your fingers around the back of his neck, tongue sliding against his, as he works you higher and higher. The fact that you could be caught at any second has you clenching around him, worked up by the naughtiness. “Fuck.” You pant into his mouth, “I’m - so close. Keep - just like that.” You plead breathlessly.

He grunts in agreement, keeping the pace and angle of his thrusts the same. Feeling how you lean into the roll of your hips. Giving back to him as he fucks you against the wall in a coat closet. The musty fabric and fur around you and he bites down on your shoulder. “Cum for me.” He commands. “Cum on me.”

His raspy demand pushes you over the edge. You clamp down on his cock, body shaking as your weight is completely supported by him, and you cry into his hair. “Oh fuck baby.” You moan, clinging to him as your orgasm rocks through you.

The wave of heat that surrounds his cock makes him hiss in pleasure. Making him grit his teeth as he works you through your orgasm with your cunt clenching down around him so tight he can barely move. “So perfect.” He praises, knowing that he’s only moments behind you. Only a few thrusts of his hips before he’s pushing deep, crushing his lips against yours to silence the moans as his cock throbs deep inside your body, painting your walls with his cum.

You kiss him as he works himself through his orgasm, your tongue swallowing his moans of pleasure, and your legs are shaking but he keeps his grip on you tight. “That was - wow.” You giggle when he relaxes, cock twitching inside you, and his grip loosens a little.

“Definitely wow.” He agrees with a chuckle, kissing you again as he slowly starts to lower the leg back down to the floor and pulls out of you. “You are incredible.” He murmurs, nudging his nose against yours. “Spend the night with me when this is over?”

You caress his cheek and smile, “I’d love to.” You  murmur, loving how he doesn’t push you away now that he’s fucked you like most men would’ve done. “I better go to the bathroom and clean up. We should get back in there.” You slide your hand down to pat his chest.

He hums and slides your dress back down your hips and leans down to pick up the hairpin that had fallen. Handing it to you. “Would you like me to wait for you or get you a fresh glass of champagne?”

You know that people have probably noticed you are both missing but you want to maintain some dignity after fucking the best man in a coat closet. "Can you get me a glass and I'll meet you in there?" You hum, kissing his cheek after you slide the hairpin back into place. He nods, adjusting his jacket and making sure his hair is slicked back before he opens the door, gesturing for you to walk out before him. There's no one in the hall so you turn to him, "see you in there, handsome." You wink and stride off as best you can on shaky legs to find the bathroom.

As soon as Javi re-enters the ballroom, he can tell that Aaron suspects something. The grin he’s being given says as much, but Javi has never been a kiss and tell kind of guy. He nods towards his best friend and moves to the bar to get fresh drinks like you requested. Pulling out his phone to discreetly send a text about making sure his apartment was ready.

You look at yourself in the mirror, your lips swollen from his kisses, your neck a little sensitive from his mustache, and you feel giddy. You really like him. Your eyes are blown with excitement, still riding the high from the sex, and after righting your appearance, you make your way back into the ballroom. You find Javi at the bar, your hand caressing his arm as you lean close to him, "fancy seeing you here." You tease his earlier comment and the smile he gives you takes your breath away. You can't wait to go home with him.

After having another drink, dinner is eaten and there is more dancing. Both of you are eager to continue the night. Soon enough, you are lined up with the guests and bridal party, showering the laughing couple with birdseed as they rush out of the ballroom into the waiting limousine to take them to their hotel for the night. The bridal suite here will be packed up by the wedding planner and you are released to your own devices. “Shall we go?” Javi asks, wrapping his hand around your waist.

You nod, smelling the lingering scent of his cologne, and you lean into his side as some of the guests linger at the reception. You find your clutch and take Javi’s outstretched hand. “Let’s go.” You smile, eager to spend more time with him.

It only takes moments to guide you outside and to the car he has waiting. The seek town car is less conspicuous than a limo, b\ut it’s still very luxurious. “The apartment, Bradley.” He tells his driver after closing the door.

You are surprised by the town car and assumed he hired it for today. "Wow. This is beautiful." You admire the leather and turn to look at Javier to find him already staring at you, "has anyone told you how handsome you are?" You murmur, caressing his cheek. "You have tonight." He says, turning his head to kiss your palm and it makes your heart flutter. "And that still wasn't enough times." You reply softly, letting your fingertips caress his lips.

He finds your compliments soothing and surprising. There’s none of the false flattery in your tone or words. You aren’t trying to soften him up beyond giving him a compliment. “You are even more perfect than Ruby said.” He hums, reaching out to caress your cheek. “And she made you seem like a goddess.”

You snort softly, "she likes to exaggerate when she wants something to happen and I'm not perfect. No one is. I want....I want to be with someone who is perfect for me." You confess, jaded after spending so much time traveling and working, most of your boyfriends couldn't handle it, handle your success within your industry. Those relationships died and you hope Javier isn't one of those men. You shift closer, seeing his dark gaze focused on you, and you brush your lips against his.

“And what is perfect for you?” He asks, enjoying the flirtation of your lips against his. His hands skim up your arms and around your back. “What do you need in a relationship?” He doesn’t mind your work, your constant travel. He travels a lot for work as well, many hours being spent on projects. 

“A best friend. Someone to talk to. Who listens when I vent a little and lets me listen to him vent a little. Someone to try that new Italian place with. Someone to share everyday moments with and the big events. I want a partner who will be there with me for everything.” You confess, “that’s what is perfect for me.”

“That sounds nice.” Javi agrees, smiling softly at the wistful sound of your voice. “Someone who knows when you need a glass of wine and foot rub or to just let you vent.” He nods. “It is hard to find someone to trust.” He admits. “But I have a good feeling about you.”

You smile, reaching for his hand, and you nod, “me too. We just seem to…click.” You murmur, looking down at how perfectly your hand fits in his. “I don’t want to be spoiled. I believe in give and take. I want to be there for my partner as much as he’s there for me. I want to be your shoulder to lean on, to hold you, and listen to you.”

He chuckles and squeezes your hand. “There are ways to spoil each other.” He promises. “It’s all about making sure that we both agree and enjoy.” He feels the car slowing down and bites his lip. “We are here.”

You glance around, recognizing you’re on Park Avenue, and you frown in confusion, “are you sure?” You ask, and he nods, watching his driver open the door. He slides out and holds his hand out to you, escorting you into the expensive building when the doorman opens the door. You’re silent as the concierge greets him by name and the elevator opens.

“I can hear you think.” Javi hums as the access card comes out of his pocket, pulled out of his wallet earlier, and swiped for access to his apartment. He doesn’t have to press a button as the doors close and the elevator starts to rise. He turns towards you and lifts a brow.

“I’m, uh, surprised. Did you - are you staying with a friend or is this…do you live here?” You ask, shocked because he definitely doesn’t give off rich asshole vibes. “I live here.” He confirms and your eyes widen, “wow. Okay, uh, I didn’t expect that.” You confess and he frowns, “is it - do you not want to stay?” He asks, wondering if that turns you off. “No. No. I want to stay. It’s just - you don’t give off rich prick living on Park Avenue vibes. You’re…well, you’re nice and I didn’t expect it. I want to stay. I’m sorry. I’m acting weird.” You apologize, reaching for his hand.

“Don’t apologize.” He realizes that you didn’t know that he was wealthy, or at least as wealthy as he is. “I like that you didn’t single me out as a rich prick.” He laughs. “Some of them are horrible. I can’t stand how elitist they can be.” He shrugs. “We all put our pants on one leg at a time.”

You chuckle, agreeing with him, and you wonder what the catch is. He’s sweet, sexy, handsome, funny, and apparently rich. Has he got a sex dungeon or skeleton in his closet? The elevator doors open and your eyes widen when you turn your head to see his apartment. “Oh my God.” You choke, looking out at Central Park and the skyline. He guides you out of the elevator, letting go of your hand so he can toe off his shoes and shrug off his jacket after a long day of wearing them. “Wow.” You gasp, walking over to the floor to ceiling windows.

He lets you walk around the apartment, taking it in. The view is stunning, he always appreciates it when he is here. Most often at night when he’s drinking a glass of whiskey or wine. Alone. Now he can imagine you here, bringing life and love into the space. Greeting him and chatting about your day. Asking him about his and making plans. He chuckles as he moves over to the wet bar. “Drink?” He offers.

You nod, slipping off your heels, by his shoes in the hallway and you pad over to him as he tilts his head and asks you what you want. “Whatever you want to open.” You smirk and he chuckles, grabbing a bottle of red wine. “This?” You nod, “perfect.” You let him wrangle with opening the bottle and find your way into the kitchen. “Oh my God. This is my wet dream.” You joke, running your fingers across the range that costs more than your last car. “I’d love to cook in here.”

“You like to cook?” Javi asks as he finally pops the cork and finds two glasses to pour the wine into. “I very rarely get the chance to make more than an egg on the stove myself.” He admits. When he’s in New York, he’s often entertaining and he entertains at restaurants. Keeping his apartment as his own personal retreat.

You admire the surface of the counter, the sink, it’s all perfect for a professional chef. “I love to, when I’m not traveling. So not often but when I get the chance, I spend all day preparing and cooking. I love baking too.” You walk over to him when he holds the glass out towards you.

“I bet you are good at it.” He taps his glass against yours and smirks. “I would offer my kitchen to you, but that sounds so sexist.” He jokes. “‘Feel free to come cook for me anytime.’” He shakes his head.

You chuckle, letting him guide you over to his sofa. “I’d love to use your kitchen, baby.” You promise, “that’s like something you’d see in The Bear.” You smirk, “but I like cooking more homemade meals.” You hum, taking a sip of the wine. “God, this is good.” You lick your lips and lean back on his sofa when he’s settled next to you. “So what’s the catch? Are you secretly into some weird sexual shit? Are you hiding a dead body? Why are you still single when you are apparently handsome, funny, and rich? It’s baffling.”

He laughs, loving the way you just shoot straight to the point. You don’t pull any punches. “I don’t think that I’m that kinky. Nothing 50 Shades, at least.” He takes a sip of his wine, watching as you stare at him expectantly. “I don’t like being used.” He admits, swirling his wine around after breaking eye contact and staring at the red liquid. “Women wanting to date me because of who I am, my connections.” He rolls his eyes and takes a sip. “I was tired of the wrong women walking in and out of my life.”

You shift, tucking your legs under you as you adjust to move closer to him. “You’re a writer? Screenwriter?” He nods and you bite your lip for a second, “I’m guessing a really successful one and I haven’t heard of you?” You ask and he nods, “I wrote a movie for Nic Cage.” He confesses and your eyes widen, “the Nic Cage? Goddamn. You- that’s amazing, Javi. Well, I think I can say that any woman who has used you is a moron. You are successful, yes, but that doesn’t mean you’re an asshole who uses a casting couch to get his kicks, right?” His eyes widen and he shakes his head almost comically fast. “I have my own connections.” You tease, “and I don’t need diamonds. They are nice but I’m not a flashy girl. Give me a massage and I’m happy.” You grin, “and some chocolates.”

“I like that.” He admits with a matching grin, leaning into you. “I could give you a massage.” He winks playfully. “In or out of the soaker tub in my bathroom.” He teases back. “I just want a woman who wants to get to know me. Just like I want to know about her. You.” He adds. “More than what you like and don’t like. I want to know how you feel, what you think.”

You feel like you’re in a dream. He’s appeared from nowhere and now your heart is pounding. It hasn’t even been a day. “Let’s see how it goes, Mr. Hollywood.” You tease, “you could hate me next week.” He shakes his head, “I doubt it.” You lean closer, “let’s take it a day at a time.” You murmur, brushing your lips against his, “but right now, I want to see you out of that suit.”

He hums against your lips and lets you take control of the kiss. Holding still and letting you explore as he sighs softly. He feels your desire and he loves it. Everyone wants to be wanted. Blindly reaching over to set his wine down, he takes your glass to place it beside his and pulls you closer.

You shift to straddle him, your dress bunching at your hips as you lift it to spread your thighs. You tongue licks along his lower lip and his responding groan has you whimpering into his mouth. Your tongue meets his and his hands slide down your back until he's squeezing your ass. "Javi." You moan when he kisses along your jaw and your hands slide down his chest until you start working on undoing his bow tie. His hand finds the zipper of your dress, playing with it until he slides it down. When the straps fall from your arms, you let them drop and shrug out of them after you toss his bow tie aside and your tits are exposed to his hungry eyes.

“No bra.” His eyes darken and he lunges forward to wrap his lips around one of the stiff peaks, loving how you cry out and your fingers immediately bury themselves in his hair. He’s had lovers over the years, many of them, but none that make this seem so effortless. You aren’t putting on a show for him, there’s no sexy lingerie to entice him. Just the beauty of your body and hunger of need. He groans when you tug on his longer locks, cock twitching against your lips as you grind down against him.

You're lucky the dress had support stitched into it so there's one less layer between you and Javier. His mouth is hot on your nipple and your fingers slide from his head down to his chest, working on the buttons of his white shirt. You manage to get it undone and push it off his shoulders, admiring how strong he is, muscles flexing under freckled skin that has you dripping onto his tuxedo pants. He grunts, reaching for his cufflinks to rip them from their place and he tosses them onto the floor. Shrugging off his shirt, your hands immediately caress the heated skin, sliding your hands along his shoulders, down his strong arms that wrap around your waist, and across to his chest, touching as much as you can.

Your fingers are greedy to touch him and he is just as eager to explore you. Cupping your tits as he switches over to the other breast, sliding his hands down to your hips and encouraging you to rock onto his cock. Ruin his pants, he doesn’t care. He’d smirk at the dry cleaner proudly. “So beautiful.” He groans as he pulls off your nipple with a pop and starts scattering kisses along the top of your breasts. “So sexy. I don’t know how I got so lucky.”

You push him back from your chest, shifting off his lap so you can kneel between his thighs. You kiss down his stomach, the small belly is sexy as hell, and you work on his pants as you press kisses to the skin. “You’re sexy. I am the lucky one.” You murmur against his flesh and finally you reach in to pull his hard cock from his pants. “Goddamn.” You murmur, admiring his girth in your grip. Uncut and thick. Your cunt drips and your eyes meet his as you pull his foreskin down, leaning in to flick your tongue over the slit where a bead of pre-cum has gathered.

A shudder ripples through him as he groans. “Fuuuuck.” He hisses, hand cupping your cheek while he fights for control. It’s been awhile since someone has given him a blow job. “You don’t have to.” He promises but you just grin at him in a way that makes his heart gallop in his chest, “I want to.” You assure him before you flick your tongue over the tip again. “Oh fuck.” His head falls back as you start to stroke him, your talented tongue sliding around the sensitive head.

You let your spit slide down his length so you can slick up your palm to stroke him easier. “You’re so thick.” You moan as you press a kiss to the head then wrap your lips around him, taking him into your mouth. His answering groan has your stomach twisting with desire and you are eager to pull him apart with your mouth.

You obviously enjoy it as much as he does. “Oh shit.” He hisses, fingers curling around your jaw as you take him deeper. “I can’t believe that you are sucking my cock.” He admits breathlessly. “I had imagined spreading you out on my bed. My tongue buried in your pussy.”

“After.” You promise as you lift off his cock for a moment, wanting to feel him cum down your throat first. He seems like the kind of man who never gets to finish like this and you want to watch him as he falls apart. You take him deeper, widening your jaw, and you choke for a moment until you swallow and inhale, taking him again.

"After." He practically whines when you take him back down your throat again. Huffing out a breath and trying to keep himself from cumming too quickly. His other hand is curled on his thigh, tight in a fist as you start to quickly bob your head up and down.

You see how wrecked he is and that eggs you on. You moan around him, your fingers not touching as you grip the base and push him down your throat while breathing through your nose. His answering groan makes the slight tinge of pain worth it and you work him deeper until your lips are touching your fingers.

He feels your throat tighten around him and his hips buck up slightly, making you choke. “Oh shit, I’m sorry.” He pants, feeling you pull back and he lunges forward to caress your cheek. “I didn’t- I’m sorry, I couldn’t help myself.”

You love that his control unravelled for a moment and you pull off him, pumping him, "that was hot." You promise, spit dripping down your chin, and you take him back into your mouth, relaxing so he can fuck your throat again .

He feels the way your throat opens and he chokes out your name as you pull on his thigh, encouraging him to rock his hips up. He’s never had a woman look so sexy with spit sliding down her chin and her eyes watery and not care about how she looks. “You look so fucking sexy.” He praises breathlessly, trying to keep from gagging you again as he slowly starts to rock his hips up.

You are dripping from his raspy compliments and moans of pleasure. You can’t help yourself, you squeeze your breast with your free hand, squeezing him with the other as he rocks his hips up. You are breathing harshly through your nose, eyes closing for a second before you open them when he twitches and you know he’s cumming. He lets out a strangled groan and you keep your head still so he can rock himself through his orgasm while you struggle to swallow his cum.

“Shit, shit, shit.” He hisses in pleasure as the last ropes of cum shoot down your throat and his entire body sags back onto the sofa as he relaxes. Groaning your name and reaching for you to pull your mouth off of him and he is dragging you up onto his lap for a kiss. “You’re perfect.” He pants against your lips and his thumb wipes away a drop of his cum from your chin.

You love how he’s not bothered to kiss you and you run your fingers through his hair when you lean back to look at him. “You haven’t had a blowjob in a while, huh?” You tease him, kissing his chin. He is still a little dazed so you shuffle off his lap and shove your dress over your hips, letting it pool at your feet, “why don’t you show me to your bedroom, best man?” You ask, stepping out of the dress and abandoning it as you start to explore his apartment.

It takes him a moment to compose himself and he is pushing off the couch and finishing stripping down. He has no issue walking around the penthouse nude. The glass is reflective and no one can see in. Especially at this height. He finds you staring up at a painting that is hanging in the foyer and he hums as he takes your hand. “This way.” He grins, tugging you slightly.

You let him guide you down the hall and you gasp when you see the massive bed in the middle of the room, Central Park on display by the window. “Oh my God.” You murmur, shocked by how incredible his apartment is but he’s soon distracting you by grabbing you, pressing his lips to yours while he walks you back to his bed.

Javi knows that you will want to stare out the window, but he wants to taste you. Eager to see how you respond to his own eagerness to use his mouth on you. “I want to see you spread out.” He murmurs.

You can’t deny him when he is kissing along your jaw like that. You nod and back up to the bed, shifting to lay down on it as he kneels and grabs your hips, lifting you up until your head is on his pillows. “Oh my God these are soft.” You declare and he chuckles, grabbing your foot to press kisses to your ankle and you shift onto your elbows to watch him kiss his way up your leg. “God, you’re a tease.” You huff when he kisses your inner thigh and shifts down to kiss your other ankle.

He chuckles again, smirking as he looks up and winks at you. “Thorough.” He corrects and continues to kiss along your leg up to your knee. Scraping his teeth over your thigh as he starts to move up. “You are soft. Sweet.” He coos. “You are going to be my favorite dessert, I know it.”

“Not as good as the wedding ca- oh fuck!” You cry when his tongue slides through your folds. His tongue is hot and wet, taking your breath away and you shift so you can run your fingers through his hair. “Handsome, smart, funny, great taste in New York real estate and goes down on a woman? How the fuck aren’t you married?” You ask breathlessly, freezing for a second. “Wait - you’re not married, are you?” You wonder if that’s the catch but then you’re reminded that Ruby wouldn’t have set you up and all of their mutual friends would’ve mentioned it. “Sorry. No. You’re not. I’m just in - in disbelief.” You add quickly when he pulls back from your folds and frowns at your question. “Sorry. You’re just - you’re a unicorn.”

He can understand why you would question it. “A unicorn?” He tilts his head, curiously and you sigh as you shift slightly. “The complete package and seemingly unspoiled.” He thinks about it for a moment and shrugs. “Then I am a unicorn.” He tells you, smirking before he laps at your clit again.

You moan, grabbing his hair, “fucking mythical for sure with that tongue.” He’s eager to eat you out, not just doing it to make sure you’re wet enough to fuck like your exes would do, not even letting you cum. You whimper, collapsing back onto his pillows as he flicks his tongue over your clit.

Javi watches you with dark eyes, absorbing how beautiful you look every time a flash of pleasure washes over your face. Sliding a hand up to cup your breast and squeeze it even as his other hand holds your hip and encourages you to grind down on his face.

The pleasure has your eyes rolling into the back of your head, and your fingers grip his hair. “Oh Javi. Feels so good, baby.” You rock your hips down and he grunts, sucking on your clit. “Keep going. Keep - oh fuck!” You cry, pushed over the edge with just his tongue.

He’s amazed that you didn’t need his fingers. Groaning as your core floods his mouth with your juices. He loves that you are pressing so wantonly, taking what you need from him. Until you are pulling your hips away from his tongue and he slowly starts to kiss your inner thighs as you pant. “Another?” He asks, not quite hard yet and willing to make you cum again.

How could you say no when he asks so sweetly with your cum shining on his chin? "Yes. God, you're gonna ruin me for anyone else." You confess breathlessly, "please, Javi." You request, squeezing your tits as you look down at him.

His chuckle is dirty and his wink is absolutely wicked. “Then my plan is working.” He teases, watching your face as he lowers his mouth back to your pussy. Loving how your hips buck up to greet his tongue.

You moan when his hot tongue slides over your clit again. “Fuck.” You pant, eyes squeezing shut at the way he laps at you. He’s ravenous, sucking on your clit, and when his finger pushes into you, he turns his wrist. “Another.” You plead, loving how thick his fingers are and he adds another, stretching you out, and you whimper, “yes, that’s - shit.” A hiss escapes your lips as you lift your leg onto his shoulder so his fingers sink deeper.

You are hot and tight around his digits, making him moan into your folds as he curls them up. He loves this, loves making you whimper and he can already see himself becoming addicted to it. To you. He might be a billionaire, but he loves the carnality of this moment. His money isn’t an issue, his skill as a lover is all you care about and he makes sure you know he’s damn good at pleasing a woman.

He has you breathless and you rock your hips into his fingers and mouth, seeking another crest to the pleasure he's giving you. "Oh fuck. Jav - baby. You're gonna make me- yes!" You cry out, clamping down on his fingers. Your orgasm hitting you harder and faster thanks to how he's already made you cum.

You’re perfect. He groans as he watches you fall apart for him, mesmerized by the your jaw drops and your eyes roll back in your head. You aren’t faking it, those aren’t measured pretty cries to please him. It’s raw and primal, making him throb against the silken sheets.

“Fuck me.” You demand, reaching down to cup his cheek, dragging him away from your pussy. “Please, Javi. Fuck me. I need you inside me.” You plead, gripping his shoulders when he shuffles up your body.

He kisses his way up your body. “You. Need. Me. Inside. You. Baby?” Every word is accented by another kiss. Groaning when you reach down and wrap your hand around his aching cock. “I need to be inside you too.” He confesses breathlessly, pressing his forehead to yours as you spread your thighs and slot him at your entrance.

He slowly pushes into you and your jaw drops, a breathless moan escaping your lips as he stretches you out. In the coat closet, you were rushed and dressed. Now, you can run your hands down his shoulders and back, trace the freckles that scatter his skin, and you lean in to kiss his jaw as he looms above you. “You feel so good.” You murmur, opening your eyes to look at him.

He is staring down at you with a look of wonder on his face. Feeling a deeper connection with you than anything he’s ever had before. “You are amazing.” He promises, ducking his head down to start scattering kisses across your face as he hovers over you, giving you time to stretch out around him.

When he starts to move, you inhale sharply, and he pauses, looking at you. "No. It - it feels good. Don't you dare stop." You demand, squeezing his biceps as he rocks back into you.

He chuckles as he starts to move again, relaxing when he realizes you are enjoying it and he’s not hurting you. “Wouldn’t dream of it.” He pants out as he fills you again.

You lift your hips to meet his, grinding up so it changes the angle he hits inside you. “Oh shit.” You sigh, caressing his back until you are squeezing his ass, pushing him impossibly deeper. “That’s so good, baby. Fuck, haven’t felt like this in - well, ever. Never felt like this.” You ramble, knowing that you’ve never had a man fuck you like it’s the last thing he’s ever going to do. Javier has put his entire body into making you cum.

He grunts in pleasure as you spur him on with your words. Loving how vocal you are and he ducks his head to start kissing and nipping at the sensitive skin along your neck. “You are perfect. So hot and tight around me.” He groans. “You’re making me lose my mind, baby.”

Your heels dig into his thighs and you love how he pushes into you a little faster. Your hands slide up from his ass to tangle in his hair, dragging his face to yours to press your lips to his. Your tongue slides into his mouth and it’s messy and raw, skin slapping in the room, and you love every second of it.

Javi is driven. Determined to keep the title of best lover that you’ve bestowed on him. That thought pushes every snap of his hips as he buries his cock deep inside you. Suddenly reaching back and grabbing one of your ankles to drag it up over his shoulder to change the angle that his cock is spearing into you. Pushing it back towards your body as he grunts and groans in pleasure.

The new angle has you clawing at his back, eyes rolling into the back of your head as he expertly pushes against that spot inside you. “Fuck, yes!” You cry, nails biting into his skin as he fucks you harder, “keep - just like that.”

He’s panting, practically growling as he fucks you. The desperation to hear more making him thrust even harder. Push deeper. Wanting to see how hard you can shatter. He loves that you are marking him up, claiming him. “Fuck, fuck.” He hisses. “Cum for me.”

Your nails leave red marks on his skin, and your chest heaves as he fucks you hard. It’s intoxicating and you are drunk on Javier. It only takes a couple of thrusts for you to follow his command, falling apart on his cock as you soak it, squeeze it, and cry his name as ecstasy hits you.

You soak him. He feels the rush of your hot juices splashing over his cock and dripping down his balls as he continues to hammer into you. “Shit, that’s it.” He hisses, loving the sensation. He’s already so fucking close, ramping up his thrusts to chase his own orgasm.

You try to breathe through the pleasure, wrapping your leg around his waist to push him impossibly deeper, lifting your hip to meet his thrusts as he frantically hammers into you. He grunts through pledge teeth, jaw locked as his eyes flutter and squeeze tight as he starts to cum. You watch in awe at his face when his cock twitches and starts to paint your walls with his hot seed.

He’s completely spent when he’s finally still inside you. Collapsing into your arms and panting against your sweat slick neck. “Fuck.” He chuckles, almost giggling at how good he feels. “You are an angel sent to tempt me.” He murmurs nonsensically.

You caress his sweaty back and run your finger through his damp hair. “Not to tempt you. You can have me however you want.” You promise breathlessly, turning your head to kiss his forehead. You feel boneless and you stare up at the ornate ceiling. “How much is this apartment?” You ask curious and he swings his arm over your waist, “$12 million.” You swallow, throat dry at that price and you nod, “could be worse, huh?” You tease, caressing his cheek when he looks up at you.

He shrugs slightly and pulls you closer. “Could be.” He admits with a slight smile. “Could be alone in this bed tonight.” He moves in and kisses you softly. “Do you want to clean up, or get some sleep?”

“I need to clean up. That’s twice you’ve cum inside me. I should probably shower and I- shit - I don’t have any clothes so I guess I’ll be doing the walk of shame in my dress.” You giggle, knowing it will be worth it. “You wanna shower with me?”

He makes a note to have some more casual clothes delivered and he nods. “Shower or bath?” He asks, smirking slightly. “The tub is massive and the view is amazing.” He entices, knowing you will love looking out over the city.

“Tub. Let’s soak in the tub.” You decide, knowing you could use that after the long day you’ve had being maid of honor and meeting Javier. He nods and kisses your chest, grunting as he slowly pulls out of you and shuffles out of the silk sheets. You admire his ass as he walks into the en-suite, listening to him turn on the tub. “You’re spoiling me.” You smirk, caressing his back when you walk into the bathroom.

“You’ve figured out my plan.” He jokes, straightening up and turning to pull you against him. “Don’t worry about being in the bath, no one can see through the windows.” He promises, leaning in to kiss you. “You want your wine? Maybe a snack while we relax?”

"Seriously...you can't be real." You tease him again and he chuckles, kissing your cheek, "wine and snacks sound perfect." You promise and soon enough, you're in the tub, leaning back into his chest with a glass of wine in your hand. You look out at the city lights, realizing that you had no idea that this is how your best friend's wedding day would end up.

**** 

“So how does your work schedule look tonight?” Javi leans back in his chair and twirls a pen as he cradles his phone against his ear. He’s on his desk phone, surprising you with a new number when he called. “Are you free, or still working on that project?” After the wedding, you’ve talked quite a bit, but work has kept you busy and he is eager to see you again.

You pull your hands away from the keyboard and play with the headphone in your ear, “I am just doing some editing but I should be done with it this afternoon and I have a few days off before my next project.” You tell him, biting your lip. Ever since that night, you’ve been talking to Javi on the phone constantly. Surprised when that morning he offered you clothes to go home in that he had his assistant buy you and a coffee from the shop you mentioned you love during pillow talk. You left with a promise to see each other, sealed with a kiss that made you dizzy, but you’ve both been so busy since the wedding.

“A few days off, huh?” He grins on the other end of the phone as the vague idea he had solidifies. “Would you let me steal you for them? Or do you have vital plans like reorganizing your fridge and doing laundry?” He chuckles because you had mentioned needing to do both things and he confessed he hates doing laundry most of all chores. It had surprised you that he did his own laundry but he normally washes his clothes that don’t go to the cleaners.

You smile, heart fluttering at the thought of seeing him again, “you can steal me for them. My laundry can wait.” You promise, knowing that seeing him is more important to you, and you would rather see your handsome lover than sit in a laundromat for hours.

“Good.” He coos, biting his lip in excitement. “Why don’t you pack a bag just in case?” He offers as if it’s a reasonable suggestion. “That way you have everything you need.”

You feel spoiled already and you have no clue what he’s planning. “I can do that. Anything in particular I should wear?” You ask, wanting to look good for him and get a clue about where you are going.

“Something that makes you feel good.” He would never expect to tell you how to dress and he loves your style. He has admittedly spent quite a bit of time looking at your Instagram. “Maybe a dress?”

"Yes sir." You tease and you hear his chuckle, "what time should I be ready?" You ask and he hums, "I'll swing by to pick you up at 6." You say, "see you then, handsome." You talk for a few more minutes about your days before you are putting the phone down to finish up your work until you need to get ready for Javier.

After putting down the phone, Javi picks up his cell phone and types out a message to his pilot. He wants the helicopter fueled and ready to take off by 6:45. Destination: Boston.

You are shocked when Javier’s driver appears on the doorstep of your building to take your bag, and you make your way outside, following him until you see Javier standing by the Mercedes. “Hey handsome.” You coo, stepping closer as his hand finds your waist so you can softly kiss him. He’s wearing a suit with no tie and a few buttons undone. He looks delicious.

“Hey beautiful.” He smiles before he steals another kiss, pulling back to look into your eyes. “Ready to go?” He asks, hoping that you are just as eager for this date as he is.

You nod, happy to see him again, and he opens the door despite his driver hovering nearby. He taps his arm, “thank you, Frank.” He nods and walks around to the drivers side while Javier helps you in and slides in beside you. “So is the mystery going to be revealed yet?” You tease, reaching for his hand.

He smirks slightly and nods, his fingers lacing with yours. “I made reservations at Carmelina’s.” He tells you. You had told him about your favorite little Italian place when you were in the North End.

Your eyes widen, “Boston? We - I thought this was just dinner. We can stay in New York. How - are we driving?” You ramble, confused and surprised. “Just sit back and relax baby, I got it all planned.” He promises and you squeeze his hand, leaning in to kiss his cheek. “Unicorn.” You remind him playfully and he chuckles, turning his head to kiss you while the car navigates Manhattan traffic. The car comes to a stop and you expect to be at JFK for a domestic flight but you are shocked when the door is opened and you are on a tarmac with a helicopter waiting there. “A helicopter?” Your eyes widen when you turn to look at Javi.

He lifts a brow. “Don’t tell me that you don’t like riding in a helicopter?” He asks, knowing that he would hate to have planned something you didn’t like. “I don’t know, I’ve never ridden in one.” You admit and he grins. “You’ll love it.” He promises as he guides you towards the helicopter and his driver grabs the bags that he had stowed in the trunk for you. His own bag with yours. “We’ll be there quickly, and our reservation is for 8.”

You are soon strapped in and headphones placed on your head as the helicopter begins to lift into the sky. You squeeze Javier’s hand as you look at the skyline of Manhattan and he brings your hand up to kiss the back of it. “You doing okay, hermosa?” He asks and you nod, offering a smile as you can hardly believe this is happening. “Just don’t let go.” You plead, squeezing his hand and he nods, his eyes serious as he says “never.” Your heart flutters and you relax once you’re in the air and making your way towards Boston.

You’re excited, even if you are a little nervous. It is different from flying in a 737 or even a little Learjet. However, Javi loves it for getting to places quickly if they are close enough. “Since I don’t have an apartment in Boston, I took the liberty of booking us into the Newbury.” He tells you. “If you want to stay the night? Play tourists for a day?”

The look in his eyes is soft and eager, making you caress his cheek, "it's perfect. I'd love it." You promise, amazed yet again by this man. He has a goddamn helicopter, he could have anyone he wants, and yet it's you by his side. "Where...where else do you have apartments?" You ask, curious because you thought his Park Ave home was his one and only.

He hums thoughtfully. “I have a house in the hills in Los Angeles.” He admits. “It feels like a completely different world, even if it looks out over the city.” He shrugs. “The apartment in London I decided to sell last year, I didn’t visit nearly enough. Although I had to keep the house in Greece.”

Your jaw drops in shock, "holy shit." You murmur and he flushes a little, cheeks reddening. "You're - how rich are you?" You ask breathlessly and he bites his lip, looking down at your hands, "like, uh, billions." He admits and you feel a little sick. "Oh my God." You choke, unable to believe he is a billionaire. It's beyond anything you'd ever known. You swallow, looking down at his hand in yours and you frown, shifting your gaze to the sky as you approach Boston. He leaves you to your thoughts as you descend and when you land, you are helped off the helicopter and into the awaiting car. You bite your lip once you're seated next to Javier and he reaches for your hand. "You've been so quiet, hermosa, what's wrong?" You turn to look at him, "I guess...I just wonder why me when you could have literally any woman in the world?" You voice the question that's been haunting you.

His gaze towards you softens and he squeezes your hand gently, picking it up and his other hand smoothes over the back of it, sandwiching it between his. “You are beautiful, so hopefully this makes sense.” He starts. “Have you ever had a relationship where your partner expected you to just look beautiful all the time? He didn’t want to know you, to love you beyond the clothes you wore and the makeup on your face?” He asks. “That is similar to what I was facing. Every woman I would meet didn’t care to know me, know my heart. They wanted to use me, either my money or my connections. I decided I wanted more than that.” He shoots you a smile. “The connection that I feel here is real, and I want to see where this goes.”

His words have you melting and you cup his cheek, leaning in to softly kiss him. “I’m sorry they didn’t take the time to get to know you because you’re funny, smart, and ridiculously sweet.” You caress his cheek, “and I started falling for you before I knew you had a cent to your name. Money is…it comes and goes. I’ve seen people lose everything and when that happens, it’s the person next to you that matters. Sure, money makes life easier, but you can’t buy love. Only companionship. I want…I want you for who you are, Javi. Not what you have.” You promise, wanting him to know your feelings for him haven’t changed just because of this revelation.

He beams, feeling his heart swell and he bites his lip. “Then we are on the same page.” He agrees. “Although don’t be surprised if I jet you off for surprises.” He warns with a wink. “I love the idea of spoiling you.”

You smile, leaning in to kiss him softly, "let's have fun. We both work so much. Let's let go and enjoy our time here and I can spoil you in other ways." You tease, kissing his jaw before you bite down on his earlobe.

He smirks slightly. “I thought I spoiled you that way.” He teases, enjoying the flash of lust in your eyes. You want him and that thrills him. “But first, let’s enjoy dinner. I’ve never been here, but you talked so highly about it I wanted to try it.”

You nod, “I swear it’s the best restaurant in Boston. It’s, uh, nothing fancy but the food is to die for.” You groan, remembering your favorite dish they serve there. “And the owners are super sweet. You’ll love it.” You promise, squeezing his hand as the car makes its way into the city.

“I don’t care about fancy.” He promises. “Some of the best places and people don’t have any airs about them.” He chuckles. “My bagel shop is a little hole in the wall place. Never want to eat anywhere else for bagels.”

You’re soon pulling up outside the restaurant, a tiny little hole in the wall, and you can’t believe Javier remembered you mentioning this over the phone. He’s truly a unicorn. He pulls your chair out and sits down after unbuttoning his jacket. “Thank you for bringing me here.” You smile, looking up from the menu in your hands.

“It is my pleasure.” He smiles and leans in. “So what is best here? Or should we order several things and share?” He suggests, smirking and waggling his brows playfully. “We needed to unwind and some of your favorite food and maybe a walk around the city will be relaxing?”

“The carbonara is to die for.” You tell him, “and the meatballs.” Your stomach rumbles just thinking about it. You haven’t had pasta like this in a while, struggling to find anywhere in New York that compares. “We can definitely share if you want, baby and I know a great spot to go for a walk.”

“Perfect.” He nods. “The Sunday Macaroni, the Carbonara and do you want to try the Wild Mushroom Risotto or the Rollati?” He asks. “I love risotto, but the pistachio ricotta in the rollati sounds amazing.” He grins. “We might have to take the leftovers back to the hotel for a late night snack.”

You grin back, loving how enthusiastic he is and you set your menu down on the table. “I’m sure we will need a midnight snack later.” You smirk and he winks, “both the risotto and rollati then.” You giggle and nod, greeting the server. Javier orders a bottle of red and you’re soon sipping it, waiting on your food. He looks so fucking handsome in this intimate setting and you can’t believe he wants you. It feels like a dream. “What are you thinking about?” He asks, tilting his head, and you smile, “just how lucky I am.”

Javi smiles as he bites his lip. “Then it’s good that I feel lucky too.” He compliments. “You are sweet, beautiful, smart and talented.” He taps his glass against yours. “I should feel bad that you’ve been single, but I’m selfish enough to be happy that you are available.

His words have your heart pounding and you know you’re falling in love with him. He just came out of nowhere and swept you off your feet. You soon order your meal, talking about your days until the food is set down and you watch Javier as he goes to take his first bite.

His eyes widen in delight and then roll back in pleasure as the comforting, delicious flavors explode in his mouth. “Oh my God.” He grins, swallowing quickly. “This is amazing? You said this is family run?” He asks and you nod with a proud grin on your face. “Good isn’t it?” You ask and he chuckles. “Amazing. I can’t believe I’ve never been here.”

You are so pleased he likes it, “it’s not really advertised. More of a ‘if you know you know’ kind of place. I’m so glad you like it. Try one of the meatballs. They are to die for.” You groan as you fork up some carbonara, moaning at the taste. You’ve missed this place. He groans as he chews on the meatball and you giggle, loving his reactions. The waiter is eventually packing up your leftovers and you share a tiramisu until Javier pays the check. He takes your hand as you walk down the street, the lamp light making him look like you’re in a movie, and you stop him, letting go of his hand. “What-?” He’s confused and you pull your phone out. “Just stand there. The lighting is incredible.” You urge him and he nods, stopping and you direct his position until you are taking a few shots. “Look.” You turn the phone to show him your work.

“You did this with a phone?” He’s amazed, but all his own photos look like a shaky toddler took them after stealing their mother’s phone. “You- you are amazingly talented.” He praises and shakes his head. “I need you working on my movies.” He tells you. “I can’t believe you don’t have studios in a bidding war for your services.”

You fluster under the lamplight at his praise until you shrug, “I have a lot of freelance work.” You confess, putting your phone away and reaching for his hand again. “You looked too handsome to not take a photo. I want to remember tonight. This is - it’s the best first date I’ve ever had.” You sigh in contentment.

He uses your hand to tug you closer, wrapping the arm that is still holding the phone around your waist. “It might be presumptuous, but I’m hoping it’s your last first date.” He admits, leaning in and brushing his lips against yours before he kisses you. The sparks are immediate and he loves how you melt into his arms, fitting perfectly and feeling right. “I want it to be my last first date.” He confesses breathlessly when he pulls back. “I’m a little mad at Aaron and Ruby for not getting married sooner, honestly.”

You giggle, your heart pounding in your chest as you wrap your arms around his neck, “me too. I’ve been wasting time on losers when you were only a call away.” You lean in to kiss his chin, “I hope it’s our last first date.” You promise, smiling when you feel him hold you tighter. “I think I want to go to the hotel now.” You confess, your stomach swirling with need for him. “I want you.” You reveal against his jaw.

The car that had brought you from the airport here is waiting just a few feet ahead and he smirks as he glances up at it. “Why don’t we wait to take that walk?” He suggests. “The car can have us back to the hotel in minutes and we can find another way to work off our dinner.” He winks and slides his hand down to grab a handful of your ass.

You moan softly, loving how tactile he is, and you nod, “let’s go.” He smirks and slides his hand back up to your waist to guide you over to the car. The driver gets out to open the door and you slide in followed by Javier. You don’t even wait until the door is shut to surge forward to cup his cheek, pressing your lips to his.

Making out in the back of the car is probably considered juvenile to some, but Javi doesn’t care. The driver is paid for discretion and he’s never going to rebuff you. He pulls you closer, sliding his tongue into your mouth with a groan and hopes that the hotel is close.

You love how he responds, just as eager for you as you are for him and it feels like seconds before the driver clears his throat and announces you’ve arrived at the hotel. Javier is already checked in by his staff so once you’re out of the car, you hold his hand as the manager rambles while escorting you to the suite. It’s different from the treatment you receive when you check into a hotel. You feel like royalty.

Javi thanks the manager when he hands him the keys, slipping him a tip. “There is a bottle of champagne on ice.” The manager informs him and Javi smiles in gratitude. “Your hotel thinks of everything.” He compliments him, “thank you.” He closes the door behind him and turns to look at you. “Champagne before or after?”

“After.” You declare, feeling desperate for him now you’ve been with him all day. “Please baby.” You murmur, stepping closer to caress his chest, playing with the buttons of his shirt. He smirks and you begin undoing them, wanting to see more of him, and he shrugs off his jacket, setting it on the bench at the end of the bed.

“You look beautiful tonight.” He hums. “Did I tell you that?” You shake your head and he groans as he toys with the straps of your dress. “You look good in everything and nothing.” He grins wickedly. “But right now I want to see you in nothing.”

You let him pull the straps down, his fingers soon finding the zipper, and you happily let him pull it down to expose the underwear you picked out with him in mind. Sexy and purple, his favorite color. Your dress falls to your feet and he takes a step back to look at you, “or that. That is also good.” He confesses, Adam’s apple bobbing and you giggle, loving that he is flustered by the lace, reaching for his belt to begin unbuckling it.

Javi is beyond humbled that you would dress like this for him. It has to be for him, and he reaches for you, caressing your curves and admiring the lace that is covering your body. “It’s erotic and almost innocent at the same time.” He murmurs in wonder, only to groan when your hand wraps around his hard cock.

You start to slowly pump him, squeezing him in your hand. “It’s for you.” You confirm, wanting him to know that you want to look good for him. “I’m yours.” You promise, leaning in to kiss his chest, his shirt opened and he shrugs it off his shoulders.

“And I’m yours.” He promises, steering you towards the bed while he ducks his head and starts to kiss along your neck. “I’m a lucky bastard.” He moans when you squeeze him, “never seen a more beautiful woman in all my life.”

You reluctantly let go of him as you fall back onto the bed and he kicks his shoes off, following you down as you reach for his cock again. “I’m the lucky one. You spoil me. Buying me those roses. Flying me here. It’s more than I ever imagined.” You say breathlessly as he kisses down your chest until he’s sucking your nipple through the lace.

You should have imagined more, because he’s going to give you more. He wants to give you everything. His teeth scrape over the sensitive bud and he groans when you start to writhe under him. Moaning his name like it’s a call to the gods above.

You let go of his length, caressing his shoulder until you’re running your fingers through his hair at the way he switches over to your other breast. He’s not a selfish lover either and you feel like you’re going to wake up and this will all be some crazy dream. “Javi.” You moan his name again, “fuck. Need more.” You whimper, dragging his face from your tits.

“What do you need, baby?” He smirks down at you and lunges up to press his lips to yours. “You want me to eat your pussy?” He ventures, tone playful. Tonight is about just the two of you and the beautiful relationship that is starting. He wants it to be fun, happy, as well as sexy and romantic. “I want to see you cum on my face. Love when you cum.” He admits. “Sounds are so sweet when you are breathless and crying out.”

You are already breathless at his words. “Baby please. I want you to eat my pussy. Love to see those eyes looking at him while your tongue is buried inside. Please.” You beg against his chin and his chuckle puffs on your face. He nods and shifts down your body, pressing kisses to your skin, and you inhale shakily when he pushes your thighs apart and settles between them.

Your core is covered in lace and his finger slides over the intricate design. “So pretty, but it’s covering my destination.” He coos, hooking finger under it and pushing it to the side to reveal the slick folds of your sex. “That’s what I wanted to see.” He smirks and flicks his thumb over your clit. Making you gasp out before you moan when he takes your clit into his mouth.

“Fuck, Javi. That's - yes.” You sigh, running your fingers through his hair as he sucks until he flicks his tongue over your bundle of nerves. You love it. “You’re so good with your tongue.” You compliment him, “so damn good it’s criminal.”

He hums, pleased that you enjoy his attention. He loves everything about sex, but there is something magical about being with you. It’s so easy, so freeing to be with a woman who is just as eager. He grips your hips in his hands and dives in with abandon.

You whimper, gripping his hair as he eagerly eats you out. He’s ravenous and your cries echo in the expensive hotel suite. “Oh. Ohhhh.” You moan when he sucks on your clit with just the right amount of pressure to make your thighs shake.

You are so vocal. Every sound feels like it’s being pulled out of your body, perhaps it is. He is dedicated to hearing those sounds and loves how you give them to him. He pulls away from your clit and laps at your folds, then settling down to push his tongue inside you.

He devours you and takes your breath away, sounds escaping your body without permission, and you are writhing until he swings his arm over your waist. His tongue pushes deep, making your head spin, and it doesn't take long for him to push you over the edge. His name screamed into the suite and your fingers gripping the expensive sheets.

Javi lets you ride his tongue, loving how you grind down on his face, his nose pushed into your clit. Only pulling away when he senses that you are spent, wrung out. He smacks his lips as he kisses your thigh and smirks up at you.

“Fuck.” You exhale, body buzzing from your orgasm. “You spoil me in every way, baby.” You murmur, shifting onto your elbows so you can look down at him. “How do you want to cum? You want me to suck your cock? Or you want to be inside me?” You ask, wanting him to have exactly what he wants.

Javi squeezes your hip and he starts to think for a moment before he grins. “I want you ride me.” He admits, squeezing your hip. “Still wearing this if it’s comfortable enough.” He wouldn’t put his desires above your comfort but he wound love it.

"It is." You promise, wanting to please him, and he shifts, shuffling off the bed to shove his pants down. You giggle when he stumbles trying to pull off his socks but he's soon flopping on the bed next to you. You smirk, shifting to kneel and you waste no time straddling him. His cock twitches on his pelvis and you reach down to wrap your fingers around him, "you're so perfect." You murmur, lifting your hips to notch him at your entrance until you slowly sink down onto his cock.

He groans, eyes rolling back in his head. “Fuck, you’re the perfect one.” He swears, gripping your hips and watching you with a pride that comes from knowing that such a sexy, wonderful creature wants him. “I’m falling in love with you.” He confesses breathlessly. “I’m not saying that because you are riding me, i just-“

You cut him off by surging down to press your lips to his. He grunts, his hands squeezing your hips, and you pull back for a second. “I’m falling for you too.” You promise, “I have been since the moment I met you.” His answering grin takes your breath away and you peck his lips, starting to rock on top of him.

He would roll you over, under him, but you look perfect on him. Writhing in pleasure as you ride him. Taking what you and making his toes curl as you clench around him. He knows that you are it for him. His search is over. One hand slides up to cover a lacy tit. “Feels so good baby.”

Your palms are on his chest as you push up so you can ride him. He stretches you out, pushing deeper in the new angle, and you whimper. You can feel his heart pounding under your hand and you know you want to spend the rest of your life with him. It's crazy. You only met at the wedding but you feel like you've known him for years. "Fuck. You always feel so good." You moan, covering his hand on your tit to squeeze it.

He groans in agreement but he thinks you always feel good. He loves how you rock your hips and circle them around. It feels amazing and you get tight around him. “Fuck baby, ride me.” He coos. “Show me how good you are.”

You are egged on by his demand, shifting your thighs so you can lift up a little higher, sinking back down onto his cock a little harder. His grunt makes you smirk and you start to rock harder and faster, your chest heaving as you ride him. “Fuck.” You pant, eyes fluttering closed as you work yourself up.

He watches you. Urging you on by rocking his hips up and loving the small squeak you give, eyes bursting open when he strikes a different spot inside you. “Fuuuuuuck.”

“There. Oh God. Right fucking there.” You pant, rolling your hips as he thrusts up into you, and your jaw drops. That spot has you seeing stars and he keeps that angle as he thrusts up into you. You fall forward, bracing yourself on his chest as he takes over the pace and you kiss his jaw. “Fuck, you’re gonna make me cum. So good. Oh shit. Yes.” You choke, eyes rolling back as he hits an angle that has your cunt fluttering until it clamps down on his cock, soaking him as he pushes you over the edge.

“That’s it, fuck that’s it.” Javi grunts, rocking his hips up just as frantically to fuck you through your pleasure. “Perfect pussy, perfect. Knew I wanted to fuck you every chance I could when I slipped inside you for the first time.” He groans. “Fucking amazing. Fuck, fuck, you can come for me again, can’t you?” He babbles. “Yeah you can, rub your clit baby. I need another one.”

His rambling has you gasping for breath, so turned on by how pussy drunk he sounds and you nod, shifting so you can slide your hand between you to rub your clit. You whimper and he chuckles, “I know baby, I know. It’s a lot but you can do it. Wanna feel you soak me again.” He demands and you choke, shaking above him as he pushes you through overstimulation until you clamp down on him again. Your wail of pleasure hits his ears as your hand frantically rubs your clit until you collapse onto him.

Now it’s his turn. He wraps his arms around you, anchoring you to his body as he rocks up into you. “That’s good baby, so good for me.” He grunts. “gonna cum, you are so fucking tight right now. Like a- a vice, squeezing my cock.” He chuckles. “Milking me.”

You struggle to grind back onto him, still reeling from your orgasms, but you manage it. You rock back onto his cock and kiss his jaw, “that’s it, Javi. My love. Cum for me. Want to feel you fill me up. Wanna drip you all damn night. Please. Cum for me.” You murmur between kisses to his jaw and down his neck.

Javi shudders and his arms tighten around you, pushing deep as his cock starts to throb. Your name falls from his lips as he starts to cum. Pumping hot ropes of cum inside you, groaning as he fills you. Eyes closed and holding you steady until he’s slowly lowering his hips to the bed.

You pant, trying to catch your breath, but you lift your head to look at him. He’s so fucking handsome. You giggle, leaning in to kiss his lips as you run your fingers through his hair. “Well damn, handsome. That’s just about ruined me for anyone else.” You confess, “you are - you’re my future.” You promise, caressing his cheek when he opens his eyes.

He chuckles and slides his hand up to stroke the length of your back. You are looking at him like he hung the moon and he hopes that never changes. “I’m glad that we are on the same page.” He murmurs softly, lifting his head to press his lips to yours. “Maybe our friends will be standing in our wedding sooner rather than later.” He hums, already envisioning a life with you.

You smile, loving how he's all in like you are. You are soon snuggled into his side after you've cleaned up, glass of champagne in your hand, and Javier's hand on your thigh. This is where you belong. 

**** 

"Javi, baby, do you think this looks okay?" You ask as you walk into the bedroom. Your fingers securing your earring as you ask your boyfriend who is lacing his shoes. You are back in Boston for a meeting he's having with a director and you decided to tag along. Javier promised to take you to dinner after you entertained yourself while he went to his meeting.

“You look beautiful.” He sets down the report he had been reading to slowly peruse you up and down. Enjoying the view and smirking slightly. Tonight is special and he is excited. “You always look beautiful, but tonight you are stunning.

You fluster at his compliments. He’s always had a way with words that makes your heart pound, and you walk over to him, leaning down to peck his lips. “You ready, babe?” You ask and he nods, shuffling the papers until he stands, watching you grab your clutch and he walks over to open the door to the suite, letting you walk out first.

“What are you planning on doing while I am pretending to pay attention in my meeting tomorrow?” Javi jokes, his hand on your back and caressing your spine as you take the elevator down to the car waiting. 

“I might check out the museum of fine art. It’s nice to have some time to just wander and appreciate beautiful art….when I get sick of staring at my beautiful boyfriend.” You add playfully and he chuckles, his hand sliding lower on your back. “Besides, that’s tomorrow. Let’s enjoy dinner tonight.” You turn to kiss his jaw as the doors open.

“I am glad the meetings are over today.” Javi hum, wrapping his hand around your waist. “I missed you.” He guides you into the elevator and hums when the doors close. “Just a nice night with my beautiful girl.” 

You lean into him, “I missed you too.” You turn towards him, pressing your lips to his jaw and you pull back a moment later to wipe your lipstick from his skin. “I hope the director agrees to work with you. Your script is - it’s the best one you’ve written.” You confess, reaching for his hand to squeeze it.

He smiles and squeezes your waist. “I think you’re biased, but I love that you are so supportive.” He grins. “And I passed along your portfolio, so even if he doesn’t want to take this movie, he was very impressed.

You caress his chest, “Javi.” You sigh despite melting that he’s your biggest cheerleader. “You’re going to get it picked up and maybe I’ll do set photography which means we will get to work together.” You smile, hoping that’s true but you never know.

“I would love to work with you.” He murmurs, leaning in to kiss you softly. “But tonight I just want to celebrate us.” He grins. “It’s special.” He announces. “Today is the anniversary of our first official date.”

You gasp, having forgotten but apparently he hadn’t and that makes you melt. “One year later.” You smile at him just as the elevator doors open. “And we are in Boston. Full circle, huh? All that would be left would be to go to Carmelita’s.” You add and he smirks, raising his eyebrows at you. “Oh my God, you booked it, didn’t you?” You ask excitedly and he nods. Your heart flutters and you look at him, “I love you. So much.” You promise, squeezing his hand.

“I love you too.” The doors open and you are whisked out to the car. The drive to Carmelita’s doesn’t take long and he is climbing out of the back to hold his hand out for you to help you out.

You let him guide you into the restaurant and you are so excited to be back at the Italian you love with the man you love. “I have been dreaming about the carbonara.” You confess, “so you’ve read my mind, baby.”

“I think I know you pretty well by now.” He chuckles and follows the waiter over to the intimate table for two he had set up. Soon enough you will understand what is going on, but you will when the rest of the diners show up.

You settle into your seat, watching Javier sit opposite you, and you glance around, “it’s pretty empty in here. It’s not that late.” You frown, wondering where the other diners are. “Did you reserve the whole restaurant?” You ask Javi and it’s not something he hasn’t done before.

“No.” He shrugs. “I guess other reservations haven’t shown up yet.” He says and looks at the drink menu. “I’m thinking champagne, or do you want to start with something else?”

You nod, knowing he always remembers the drink you asked him for on the wedding day, the day you met, and you smile at him, “that’s perfect, baby.” He orders the bottle and you bite your lip as you look over the menu despite knowing what you want.

He smiles as he watches you for a moment, head tilted down and you are absorbed in the menu. Not noticing patrons filing in and being seated around you. “Anything changed on the menu?” He asks, looking over his own menu, even though he knows it hasn’t.

You giggle, shaking your head as you browse the menu until you finally lift your eyes and look up at the man you love. He smirks and you frown when his gaze drifts behind you, so you turn your head to see what he’s looking at.

Aaron and Ruby are sitting at the table to the left of you. Your parents are beside them. Every table in the restaurant is filled with your friends and family. He had invited them, flown them in, to be here for this moment.

Your eyes widen, glancing around at your friends and family sitting in the restaurant. Your head spins back to Javi and you gasp when you see him kneeling there. “Oh my God.” You choke, “I- baby?” You ask breathlessly, feeling like your heart is about to pound out of your chest.

Javi grins. “A year ago our adventure began and I have loved every single day. I want to wake up next to you every morning for the rest of my life. Be there for every good day and every bad day.” He smiles. “I want to build a life full of love and laughter with you.” He murmurs your name softly, “Will you marry me?”

Tears immediately spring in your eyes and you nod, choking on a sob that transforms into a “yes.” His answering smile takes your breath away and he reaches for the ring, sliding it onto your hand as tears stream down your cheeks. “I love you.” You gasp, surging down to kiss him, cupping his cheeks as your family and friends clap.

He kisses you back, dragging both of you up to your feet. Euphoric about you agreeing to spend your life with him and he pulls back with a grin. “I love you too baby.” He promises. “Now we have our own wedding to plan.”

You caress his chest, “well at least we know who our maid of honor and best man are.” You turn to look at your best friends seated beside you and Ruby grins, looking at her husband who winks at her. Javier chuckles, kissing you softly, and you smile against his lips. You never expected to meet the love of your life at your best friend’s wedding but you did and you are excited to spend the rest of your life with him. It’s going to be the adventure of a lifetime with Javier as your husband.

[purplerain04]

I miss your gorgeous face, joel miller

[purplerain04]

Love love love this series! ❤️

The Unbearable Weight of Perfection, ch 10

Javi Gutierrez x female reader Co-written with @absurdthirst

When an accident of fate throws Javi G into the path of his soulmate, his instinct is to dive in head first. Adjusting to life as the fated partner of someone you barely know is going to be harder than either of you suspect, but anything worth having is worth working for. Isn't it?

(This story is heavily inspired by the lovely house museums that I work in every day and the fantastic few months that HBO was using our houses to film a TV show in fall! I spent each day on that set in wonder and I can't wait to share the experience with all of you through this story.)

Rating: M for Mature but this blog is always 18+ Word Count: 7.8k Warnings: *Blanket warnings for this story include: Cursing, alcohol, food, references to abusive family members -- i.e. Lucas, discussion of money/finances.* Talk of pregnancy/family planning. Workplace accident. Hospital trip. Summary: Billie confides worries to you, and there is an accident on set that leads everyone to do a little introspective thinking. Notes: It's a check in with the besties this week! Please enjoy this week's beautiful chapter photo: the Great Hall at the Breakers.

Ch 1 ~ Ch 2 ~ Ch 3 ~ Ch 4 ~ Ch 5 ~ Ch 6 ~ Ch 7 ~ Ch 8 ~ Ch 9

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Sitting with your sketchbook in the trailer you share with Javi when you’re not needed on set has become normal. It’s almost lunch and then you’ll go join people at craft services, but for right now you’ll enjoy sitting patiently in your trailer with some music playing and your pencils and markers close at hand. Tamara asked if you could make her a dress in the same material you’re wearing so you’re awash with new ideas.

The knock on the trailer door is soft, almost hesitant. Pausing before the it opens after you call for whoever is on the other side to come in. The light from outside is bright and sunny, making Billie blink as she steps up into room. “Hey?”

“Hey gorgeous!” You set your sketchbook aside immediately. “I didn’t know you were here today! Come on in.”

“Sorry to just drop by.” She sends you a small smile. “Are you busy?”

“Of course not,” you wave her in and instantly reach for the nearby mini fridge where you keep cold drinks because Javi is obsessed with ice-cold drinks now that he lives in America. “I’m never too busy for you, you know that.”

She accept the coke and sit down on the other side of the sofa. “Thanks.” She doesn’t open it, just toys with the little tab to open as she tries to figure out how to ask you.

“Bill…?” You get up long enough to make sure the trailer door is completely shut before going back to sit across from her. Legs crossed and ears open. “Is everything okay?”

She opens her mouth to reassure you, to make that instant look of worry on your face go away. “Has Alex talked to you about me?” Is what comes out instead.

“A little.” So that is what this is about. You’re curious, but not about to pry. It’s been a few weeks since the pool party and they’ve been on a few dates, but as far as you know nothing too deep has happened. “He’s told me how much he likes you, and we talked a little about things you like when he was fishing for date ideas.”

“Does he- complain?” She bites her lip, worrying it between her teeth. The can rolls nervously in her hands for something to do. She wants to pace, but quite frankly the trailer is too small.

“What?” Shocked by that idea, you reek back and sit up straight. “Oh my God, no. Not at all. What would you think that?”

“We haven’t had sex yet.” Billie rushes out, blushing furiously and ducking her head down. She’s wanted to, but she’s just not been able to go through with it.

“Oh. Um…okay…” Shifting slightly where you sit, you teeter with the idea for a few seconds before getting up and going to sit next to your cousin instead. “Are you upset about it because you want to or because you don’t want to?”

“I want to….” She admits, rolling her eyes at herself. “I really fucking want to.” Alex had obviously wanted to last night when they were making out on his fucking gorgeous leather sofa, but the second he had reached for her pants, she had panicked.

"Okay," you gently rub one hand up and down her back. "What's stopping you, then?"

She groans softly and drops her head into her hand. “Disappointment.”

"In Alex?" Your shoulders raise a little and you frown. "What did he do?"

“No.” She shakes her head quickly and looks at you. “I’m afraid that he might be disappointed in me.”

"I seriously doubt that." But of course everyone has hang ups. It's only fair, and Billie is only human. But you refuse to believe that there could be enough 'wrong' with your cousin for a sweet guy like Alex to be disappointed in her. "Talk to me, honey. I'm not sure what you mean."

“I—” it’s stupid. “My ex hated sex with me.” She admits. “Said that it reminded him every time that we weren’t soulmates.”

"Well that's bullshit," you huff, nose wrinkling in distaste. This seems like a drink-in-hand conversation but there isn't any liquor around and it's still before noon, so you pop the top on your soda and encourage her to do the same. "But you're worried Alex will feel the same?"

“I have a birthmark. A very vivid one.” She huffs, knowing that she’s never told any of the cousins and had sworn her parents to secrecy when she realized it at a young age. “Can’t even cover it up with a bush.”

"Ah...so it's...in his face? So to speak?" That...would certainly be a reminder to someone who is self conscious about sleeping with someone other than their soul mate.

“Yeah. And Alex is pretty fucking perfect.” The slow pace of the relationship has been amazing and he’s given her amazing conversation and interactions. Completely different from the first misunderstanding, she’s quickly falling for him and that terrifies her.

"Have you thought about talking to him about this?" Seeing her this torn up isn't something you would wish on anybody, but the fact that Billie hasn't just talked to Alex yet actually worries you a little. She's always been a fairly straightforward person, even when that meant the time when you were seven that she told you your headband looked like an alien's eyes. She's honest, which means she must be really twisted up about the whole situation.

“What can I say?” She snorts. “Sorry every time you see me naked you’re gonna remember I’m not your soulmate?” She asks. “This man is looking for forever and I’m not it.”

“How do you know?” You ask her honestly. “Have you seen him naked already?”

She scoffs. “Yeah, like that’s a possibility.” She closes her eyes. “Be for real. And I just- I really like him.”

“Okay, maybe he isn’t your soulmate. Maybe he is. We don’t know.” Personally, you think it would be pretty incredible and you’re not willing to count it out — especially after one of the PAs showed up to set yesterday glowing with the news that his mechanic is his soulmate and they’re getting married next weekend. This production seems charmed to bring people together and you would love for Billie and Alex to join those ranks. “There’s no reason you can’t love somebody and be with somebody that isn’t your soulmate, honey. You know that.”

She was so hurt by the things that her ex said that she has her doubts even though she knows you’re right. “Maybe I should just stop seeing him.” The mere thought makes her want to cry and for a split second, she regrets ever meeting Alex Powell.

“No you shouldn’t.” That’s a terrible thing to say but you know it’s just out of fear, so instead of reeling back you hug her close to your side. “But I do think you should talk to him about why you’re scared.”

“Do you know how horrible it’s going be when the way he looks at me changes?” Now tears start to slide down her cheeks. “I think I’ve fallen in love with him.”

“I don’t think it’s going to be as bad as you fear, babe.” To have your crying cousin on your couch breaks your heart, especially because you are so sure that things would be okay if she just talked to him. Alex has been nothing but sweet, attentive, and open with her. It has resulted in a lot of deeply goofy moments on set and in your group of friends, but the end result is always the same. They seem completely crazy about each other. “I’d bet anything in the world that he feels the same way about you. You guys seem so in tune.”

“Until he sees that fucking birthmark.” She chokes out, hating the universe right now.

"Billie, be totally honest with me," you nudge your cousin so she'll actually look up. "What is the percentage possibility that your ex was just a giant fuckwad and the birth mark is perfectly fine? Because I'm leaning toward that being the case."

This is why she has come to you. You always seem to knock some sense into her. Balance her out when she’s adrift. “He did cheat.” She admits after a moment. “Because her tits were bigger.”

"I'm confused, then." Your face twists when you look at her because you're trying not to frown. You're not judging her. Hell no. You're judging the bastard that mistreated her. "Why are we considering anything he said?"

“Because…” she bites her lip and sighs heavily. “What if he’s right?” She voices the very vivid fear quietly, as if speaking it too loud would make it happen.

"I just don't think he is." But your own feelings about it aside, you let Billie practically crawl into your lap and hug her tight. "But the question is...do you like him enough to take the chance?"

“God, does it mean I don’t if I say no?” She doesn’t even want to think about that. “No, I like him so much that I’m about to have a breakdown.” She chokes out a hollow laugh.

If you could fix everything in the world for her right here and now, you would. But this is something she has to do for herself. "I know I sound like a broken record, Bill, but you have to talk to him."

“I know.” She had known that before she ever knocked on this door. She just needed to hear it said aloud by someone she trusts.

"I love you so much," you promise her, hugging her fiercely. "And if he breaks your heart I'm going to kick his ass."

She laughs, throwing her head back and feeling so much better about it all. “I’m so glad you walked into my shop.” She huffs, hugging you back. “You know exactly what to say.”

“I missed the hell out of you,” you remind her, feeling a little lighter just to see her smile again. You can’t completely predict what will happen between her and Alex, but they both deserve happiness and love and all you can do is hope they find it together. “And I’m so grateful to have you back in my life.”

“Me too.” When you are kids, you don’t think about those connections until they are gone. “Have you heard from your mom since you’ve been back?” She’s aware of the disastrous meeting, but you had been vague about the aftermath.

“Not yet.” And if you’re honest? You’re dreading it. Like really, deeply dreading it. “I’m half afraid she’s going to show up at the house or something, but the. I remember how little effort she’s made since Dad died and I know she won’t bother.”

“Does she even know where you live?” She asks seriously, “other than just, Los Angelas?” She snorts and waves her hand. “Pretty big city after all.”

"I don't think so." Which would be a comfort, if you didn't know how petty she can be. "But Gillian Miller -- do you remember her? -- she knows Javi's last name. I can see my mom being awful enough to track us down if she thought she could get something out of it."

“Then keep the gate closed when the construction workers aren’t there.” She suggests.

"Fair enough." It's good advice, you have to give her that. Hopefully it will never be necessary for your or Javi's safety and security, but it is good advice. "Do you want to come to lunch with me and Jav? Maybe or maybe not eat with your boyfriend that's crazy about you?"

She worries her bottom lip again. “I had hoped to get an invite to craft services.” She admits with a small grin.

"Come on, gorgeous." One last squeeze now that you're both feeling a little lighter, and you aim your cousin toward the trailer door. "Let me just text Javi that we'll meet him there."

“That sounds good.” She twists her fingers and sets the unopened drink down. “Alex should be on set today, at least I think he was supposed to be on set.”

"He is." You had thought that was why she was here but apparently not. "Which means he should be at lunch. Maybe you can talk to him after if you're ready?"

“I had come to apologize.” She admits softly. “For leaving yesterday. I- uh, kind of ditched him last night when things got heavy.” Her brows lift suggestively.

Your shoulders drop immediately in sympathy. "Billie. Honey, you need to talk to him."

“I knooooooooow.” She sighs, closing her eyes. “He must hate me right now.”

"Honey, it's Alex," you remind her gently. "He's probably worried you hate him."

“How could I hate him?” Her eyes widen and immediately fill with worry. “He’s amazing, probably the best man I’ve ever met, besides dad and Javi.”

"Well then." Pushing the door open, you usher her through with a grin. "Go tell him that."

Feeling so much lighter than she had when she entered the trailer, Billie practically skips down the steps and nearly bounds into a PA rushing by. “Oh sorry!” She calls out.

"Outta the way!" The man calls in return, not even stopping to look as he sprints toward the front door of the museum.

“Holy shit.” She looks towards you with her brows raised. “His pants were on fire.”

"I wonder what happened?" One PA running across the lawn isn't much to sniff at. Maybe he was late. Maybe one of the demanding producers wanted coffee. Who knows?

“Probably got yelled at for something he missed.” She theorizes before she shrugs.

"Probably." You agree, just seconds before you notice someone else running for the house at top speed. "...That's...that's a coincidence, right?"

“No.” For some reason, Billie’s heart drops down to her toes and she’s sure something is horribly wrong. “No, it’s not!” She gasps out as she darts towards the house herself.

There is no choice but to sprint after her, doing your best to run and to pull your phone out to text Javi at the same time. You know they’re shooting in the library today, and you simultaneously are terrified that a person may have gotten hurt but also that something could have happened to that precious, gorgeous room.

Dread curls in her stomach as she races toward the mansion. “Oh god, oh god.” She can’t explain it, but her heart is racing.

All movement in the house when you reach it seems to be heading back toward the library and you follow Billie directly on her heels. The crew are all calling to each other in a shorthand that neither you or she understands and there is too much movement to parcel things out at first, but through the crowd you catch sight of Tamara and wave to her.

Billie hears you and changes course, aware that she can’t get in the way but she needs to be here. “What’s going on?” She demands, after shoving her way through people standing about.

"Everyone is okay." Tamara starts, though she can see from your and Billie's faces that you don't quite believe her. "The medic took a look and said everybody's okay. They've just got him on the stretcher as a precaution."

Billie’s face drains of all life and she whips her head around. “Alex?” She knows that he had said he was filming with Tamara today and she’s immediately leaving your side to rush over and demand they let her through.

"Let her through, please." Alex's voice isn't particularly strong, but that's to be expected right now. He's propped up on the set medic's stretcher and still feeling a bit fuzzy. When Billie doesn't appear immediately he tries to turn but the medic touches his shoulder to keep him in one place while he's reading the movie star's vitals. "Baby?"

“I’m here.” She’s not gentle as she pushes through the people surrounding Alex. Breaking through with a worried expression on her face that blossoms further when she finally sets eyes on her boyfriend. “Oh god. Are you okay?” She demands, nearly breaking down into tears.

“I’ll be fine.” It’s a promise he intends to keep, although he knows there’s current a decent sized bump on his head and he’s lying on a stretcher. But he’s more worried about his girlfriend worrying than anything else. “You think a falling prop is gonna keep me from living a life of shenanigans and swagger?” His hand cups her cheek and he smiles. “No way in hell.”

“Oh God.” She huffs. “A prop fell on you?” Her fingers are gentle, probing his head gently and she clicks her tongue when she feels the large goose egg on his skull. “Baby…” she whines softly before she swallows. “It’s a good thing you have a hard head.” She jokes weakly, eyes sparkling with fresh tears.

“It’s probably just a concussion.” Alex echoes the set medic’s opinion, but he can’t hide his relief at a small doting moment with Billie. After last night he was convinced she was mad at him but he couldn’t figure out what the hell he had done wrong.

“Then you can’t be alone.” She blurts out, nodding almost to herself before she looks over the medic to get his confirmation. “He can’t be alone, right? With a concussion?” She looks back at him. “Natasha Richardson didn’t pay attention to a concussion and died.”

“That’s right.” The medic nods in turn. “We’re gonna take him to the hospital just to make sure there’s nothing we missed, and he’ll need some rest time.” He looks between the two of them. “You live with him? If you don’t, you might plan to stay the week to keep an eye on him.”

Alex opens his mouth, probably to protest that he doesn’t need to be coddled or watched like a toddler, but she answers before he can. “I’ll stay with him.” She reaches up for his hands and squeezes them gently after she takes them. “I’m staying with you.” She repeats firmly.

“Coming to the hospital too?” He asks, suddenly a lot more amenable to the idea if it means Billie is going to dote on him. Does he need a babysitter? Of course not. But he does like having her there.

“Yes.” Plans to have lunch with you are off the table. This takes precedence. “I’ll follow the ambulance so you have a ride home.”

He’s jostled a little as the medic starts to roll the stretcher down the hall, but Alex holds on to Billie’s hand. “Thought you were mad at me…” he mumbles, feeling stupid about the whole thing.

“No.” She feels worse, ashamed that he had thought he was the problem. “No, I’m mad at me.”

“Wanna explain that to me later when I’m a little less concussed?” He asks, big smile trying its to make her smile right along with him.

“Yeah.” Her smile isn’t as bright, but he she lifts his hand up and kisses the back of it. “First I’m gonna spoil you.” She promises. “You deserve it after being hurt.”

“I did it to myself,” he admits, but pauses to flash a thumbs up at you and Tamara and Javi as he’s pushed past.

“How did you make a prop fall on your head?” She snorts shaking her head. Production will have a shit fit, especially with one of their principal actors being taken out of action for a few days.

“I was distracted,” he admits, though he leaves out that he was distracted trying to figure out what he had done wrong. “And I walked right the fuck into one of the dummy walls. It teetered, knocked a plant off a shelf, and the plant fell on my head.”

“Oh god.” She presses her lips together so she doesn’t smile or laugh, knowing that it’s not funny that he’s hurt. “Baby, you have to be careful.”

“Good advice,” he smirks at her as they hit the front door. “For an hour ago.”

She snorts, giggling quietly behind her hand while the other is still firmly in his. It’s a good damn thing the door is oversized double doors because she is not letting him go.

“Text us from the hospital!” You call after them, and thankfully get a thumbs up from your cousin as they leave the house.

“He will be okay.” Javi knows that as much as you pretend Alex annoys you, you love your friend. He has become very dear to you.

“He’s not hurt too badly, right?” Javi and Tamara had explained what happened, but you’d only gotten a glance at Alex as he passed by. Not enough to assure you that he really is okay.

“He was knocked out for a second.” Javi admits with a wince. “But he came to almost right away.”

“Shit…” you breathe, shaking your head.

“He’s been off all day.” Javi admits with a soft sigh. “They need to check him closely. He’s been missing marks, forgetting lines.”

“It…might have something to do with Billie,” you tell them quietly, holding in an apologetic cringe. “They…I guess last night didn’t go well and he might have thought she was upset with him.”

He frowns for a moment and then remembers the text that you had sent him. He hadn’t looked at it until you were sending him another text. “Did she say something to you?”

“Yeah, she came to our trailer to talk to me about it.” You don’t want to say too much since it was a private conversation, it seems like Alex was as distracted and upset as Billie was. “But judging from the way she was glued to his side on the way out of here, I have a feeling they’ll be okay.”

“I hope so.” Javi pulls you close, needing to touch you after being upset and there being an injury on set. “I like them together.”

“I do too.” The comfort of his arms is a welcome thing right now, and you sink against him happily. “I do too, cariño.”

******

Even if he’s settled into his room after arriving and the hospital and had a CT scan - it’s amazing how quick a movie studio can get medical orders expedited - Billie still fusses over him. Smoothing down the blanket after he’s been changed into a gown by the nursing staff, waiting outside at their insistence, and fluffing the pillow behind his head.

“Babe.” Alex catches her hand when Billie goes to fix his pillow for the third time, and smiles softly. “I’m okay. I promise.”

“But you could have not been okay.” Her voice is quiet, his hand warm and comforting and she glances into his eyes.

“To apologize.” She closes her eyes but leans into him as he puts his arm around her. There aren’t any cords or IVs to tangle up, so she doesn’t hesitate.

"I wanted to apologize too," he tells her, pressing a kiss in her hair and one on her cheek when she lifts her head. "I know you want to take things slow and I'm sorry if you felt pressured. I...got a little enthusiastic."

“No, it’s not you.” She takes a deep breath. “It was completely me. Fuck, every other woman in the world would call me crazy for running off last night.”

Alex blows out a breath but doesn't shake his head. The doctor told him to keep steady and he's trying to be good. "I don't care about every other woman in the world. I care about you."

That makes her feel better, a little braver and she thinks about what you said. “My last relationship….it didn’t end well.” She explains. “And I’ve been a little shy about taking that step because of that.”

Alex immediately frowns, searching Billie's face with concern. "He didn't hurt you, did he?"

“Not physically.” She shakes her head, wanting to reassure him. “It was emotional.”

"Baby." He hugs her tight to his side with both arms, pushing out a breath instead of making any kind of sound. He knows it can come across as sounding like he's upset at her and that isn't the case at all. "I'm so sorry."

“It’s not your fault.” She huffs. “It’s just—” she bites her lip. “I’ve got a noticeable mark on me. One that he couldn’t stand to see, and he let me know it every time.”

"He got mad about your birthmark?" He knows she has one. She's mentioned it before. But he didn't figure it could be anything to speak of -- he's seen her in a bikini and it was covered up.

“Yeah.” She swallows. “Some times he would just refuse to touch me and look at me like I was disgusting.”

"You did nothing to deserve that kind of treatment." Alex wracks his brain, trying to remember if Billie had given him any information about this guy -- like his name or where he lives. He absolutely would show up on the asshole's doorstep. "And I'm so sorry you went through it. Anybody lucky enough to have you should be thanking god every day for the privilege."

That makes her feel better. “When you— I just froze and panicked and took out my issues on you.” She turns her head. “I’m so sorry.”

"Thank you for explaining." He's playing with her fingers slightly, holding her hand but also tracing the lines in her palm with his fingertips because she told him once that it was soothing for her. "Apology accepted, sweetheart. And I am sorry that I pressured you. I'll wait as long as you need to be comfortable."

“It’s not because I don’t want to.” She promises. “I mean, you’re…you.” She snorts. “Sexy, charming, kind.” It’s sad to say but before her ex, she probably would have jumped into bed with him the first day.

"I would toss my hair," Alex teases. "But that would go against doctor's orders."

She laughs softly, feeling like that dread was just a figment of her imagination. The boogeyman under the bed that turned out to be a doll. “Don’t want to disobey doctor’s orders.” She hums.

"Which also means I can't fall asleep for a while." They don't tell people to stay awake for 24full hours anymore, but rest still needs to be monitored. Alex's doc had recommended he stay awake as long as he could manage.

“Since I’m staying over, we can stay awake together.” She knows that he can’t be too active or stressed, but maybe he won’t mind. “Stay up late, swapping manly stories.” She pulls out her old impression of Donkey from Shrek. “And in the mornin’, I’m makin’ waffles.”

"Ooooo. waffles." Alex's eyes go wide. "We missed lunch because I was an idiot."

“Are you hungry?” She asks immediately, sitting up.

"Not enough that I want you to leave," he pouts, hugging her closer. He can wait until they serve dinner. He'd much rather have Billie at his side.

“I can order DoorDash to the room?” She offers with a sly grin. “You aren’t on any restrictions.”

"Smart." He lights up and grins. "My baby is so fucking smart."

She grins and turns to kiss his cheek. “Let me grab my phone out of my purse and we will decide what we want to order, okay?”

“Baby…” She’s across the room when he looks up at her again, with concern and hope written across his features. When Billie looks up questioningly, he gulps back nerves. “What does your birthmark look like?”

Her face falls, knowing that everything will change once he knows what it’s like. But she has to trust him to not be like him. “It’s a strawberry colored mark.” She tells him. “Right here.” Pointing to right above her mound, where hair refuses to grow because of it, so she couldn’t hide it if she wanted to.

Alex’s lips press into a thin line, his whole body tightening in an instant. “Is it, um…” he’s all but holding his breath so even his voice is tight, but his eyes are wide. “Is it shaped almost like a star?”

“…Yeeaaaaaah.” She draws out slowly, confused. “How did you know that?”

“Do you remember how I told you I never do nude scenes?” He asks, just as slowly. It has been a conversational point early on but he has sort of skirted the topic.

“Yeah?” She had honestly just imagined that he wasn’t as big as he would like it known. Or maybe his circumcision wasn’t perfect. Whatever it was, it was his decision to put his body on screen and she didn’t judge him for it.

“It’s…because I have a mark from my soulmate.” He swallows hard and blinks fast, resting to keep himself from overreacting. Or at least from reacting too early. Until it’s confirmed, he doesn’t want to freak out.

She’s not stupid, but the implication sails right over her head. “Oh.” She hums, biting her lip and bringing her phone back over to the bed to sit down. She pats his hand gently. “I’m sure it’s not as bad as mine.” She snorts.

“Baby.” He almost laughs but manages to stifle it. That would be awful, to make her feel like she’s being laughed at. “I’m saying…we might have the same mark.”

“What?” She freezes for a second, gaping at him. “No, no, I couldn’t be that fucking lucky.” She huffs, shaking her head. “You must have really knocked the shit out of yourself.” Still, just the thought that he had thought that deserves a kiss and she drops one on his lips quickly. “You are so fucking sweet.”

“I’m not trying to be weird and get you to look at my junk,” he clarifies, laughing at himself a little. “But don’t you think it’s worth checking?” The ache in his chest is pronounced because he loves her so fucking much — he fell so fast and so hard and he’s been holding himself back the last few weeks so he wouldn’t spook her. She deserved that. Common decency.

“Should I show you mine?” She asks, “or would you rather show me yours.” Her mouth is suddenly dry and she doesn’t know what to think.

“Whichever you’re more comfortable with.” He doesn’t know which he’d prefer. He might not care. Right now what he cares about is finding it if it’s true.

“I-“ she searches his eyes. “Show me yours?” If it doesn’t match, she can probably hide her disappointment better than she can swallow seeing whatever plays across his face.

“Okay.” He nods slowly but clears his throat. “Just…” His cheeks are red with embarrassment. “I’m a grower not a shower, okay?”

She smirks and tilts her head to the side as she watches him fluster. “Baby, you can’t help that anymore than I can help how big my tits are.”

“I’m just sayin’,” he protests, but still moves the blanket that he’s been sitting under for a few hours now.

“You don’t have to show me it all.” She reminds him, finding it absolutely adorable that he’s defensive about this. “You know when a guy just shows the base of his cock? That’s so fucking hot.”

“I’m sure placating me, but at the moment I’m not sure I care.” He huffs at himself, uses the blanket as cover to arrange his hand into some level of modesty because he still refuses to pressure her into any kind of intimacy she isn’t ready for, and finally pushes the blanket aside again. The pink, star-like mark is obvious and not small by any means, but it’s right there. “It showed up when I was four,” he explains. “So I know it’s my soulmate’s.”

Four. Alex is four years older than she is. The mark is identical to hers, making her fingers itch to reach out and touch the mark, but she can’t do that. Instead, she’s leaning back, pulling her shirt up and pulling her leggings and panties down to show him the mark she has carried since birth.

“Well…” Alex hiccups, the tears welling up in his eyes. He may put on a tough guy front, but this is his soulmate. “I,um…oh my god, baby…” is all he can say as he reaches for her.

“We match.” She manages to whisper, her chin wobbling as she realizes that she doesn’t have to worry about him being disgusted by a mark that they don’t share. A visual reminder of being incompatible according to the universe. “I can’t believe it.” She chokes out right before they come together in a kiss.

“I love you.” It comes out of his mouth so fast that it’s mumbled against her lips but he won’t apologize this time and he’s certainly not going to take it back.

She hears it, but she’s not pulling away to question it. Instead she’s cupping his cheek gently and humming against his lips in return. “Love you too.” It’s right, and perfect and making her feel just as dizzy as he must feel right now.”

******

“Finally got a text from Billie,” you announce, setting the platter of grilled chicken beside the large bowl of Caesar salad and tray of garlic bread on the table by the pool. Jason and Moira came over after shooting wrapped early for the day and Javi had suggested relaxing to try to diffuse some of the worry while you waited for news about Alex. “All of his scans can back clear. Just a concussion, no complications.”

“Oh thank god.” Moira instinctively leans towards Jason, unsure what she would do if he had been the one injured. Although she’s not been told about a soulmate connection, it’s obvious they are crazy about each other. “I can’t believe he was hurt.”

“I know she blames herself, but it was just an accident.” You pour yourself a drink from the pitcher of iced tea in the table and dour back as everyone starts to serve themselves. “At least he’s okay.”

“Why would she blame herself?” She frowns, reaching do the garlic toast and splitting a piece with Jason. He’s got a shirtless scene coming up and he has been cutting back on carbs.

“They had a…” Not quite a fight, but you don’t know what to call it. “A miscommunication, I guess? Last night. And they were both upset.”

“Oh….” Jason winced as his soulmate lets out a knowing sigh. “I know that she has to be upset, but Alex is a big boy. He’s alright.” He says as he serves Moira a piece of chicken. It’s a thigh and she loves the darker meat when it comes to chicken.

“I can understand the worry though,” Moira agrees. “I would worry if it was you.”

“Yeah.” Javi nods. “I think I would be frantic.” He doesn’t know what he would do if it were him. They would probably have to hospitalize him right beside you for anxiety.

“You’re going to be a mess when I’m pregnant,” you predict, shouting your soulmate a knowing grin.

“I will.” He snorts before his eyes widen. “I should ask the contractor to make sure the counters don’t have sharp edges.” He declares. “Or the fireplaces.”

“Javi, it will be fine.” It’s sweet that he worries, though, since it comes from love. “We can’t guard kids from everything.”

“I was thinking about you.” He huffs. “Your belly will be big and you won’t be able to see your feet!”

“Well then you’ll have to guide me around,” you tease, but only because you know he was planning on it anyway. You’ll be surprised if he lets you do a single thing while you’re pregnant.

“I will.” He agrees seriously, passing you the wonderful Greek salad that you had made to go with the refreshing meal. “No accidents.”

Moira’s smile is soft and affectionate, knowing how excited you and Javi are to start a family. “So does that mean I get to be an auntie sooner rather than later?” She teases.

Javi glances at you, knowing that the decision to announce your plans should solely be decided by you.

“Still not for a little bit.” Despite the caution, you’re beaming. “We’ll probably start trying in a few months, but who knows how long it will take.”

“Oh it’s gonna happen right away.” Moira predicts with a grin. “One hundred percent.”

“Oh yeah?” You smirk at her confidence. “You’re sure?”

“Absolutely.” She snorts playfully, winking at you. “If practice counted, you’d already be due.”

“I mean…” Even as you giggle, Javi is blushing like mad and that only makes you laugh that much harder. “You’re not wrong. But if practice is what counted, you two would be expecting already, too.”

“That’s not fair.” Jason pouts immediately, although his chest expands a little with the pride of knowing that his soulmate has been bragging to her best friend. “We haven’t been together as long as you two.”

“I tried to get you two to dance together at our wedding,” you remind him, still laughing as you start in on your dinner in earnest.

“I was nervous!” Jason huffs, grinning at how ridiculous it now seems. “I was afraid of looking like a goober in front of the most beautiful girl I had ever laid eyes on.”

Moira chuckles and leans over to kiss his cheek. “The only difference now is that you know I find your goober moments cute.”

“Yeah, you think they are my best attributes.” He jokes, making his soulmate laugh again.

“That’s because I have impeccable taste,” she tells him solemnly.

“Yes you do.” He agrees smugly before he leans over to kiss her back. Finding it irresistible to do when she’s flashing those pretty eyes at him. “And every day I get a little bit more gooberish around you.”

"Oh my god." Even your groan is teasing, but you're cuddled into Javi's side as you watch your best friend and her soulmate. "You guys are absolutely disgusting. I'm so fucking happy for you."

“We are talking about getting married.” Moira tells you with a very proud smirk. “After the movie wraps up.”

"Oh my god..." You practically drop your fork with how fast you're sitting up straight and vibrating excitedly. "Oh my god! You guys! That's incredible!"

“We figured that your marriage right before the film will be the talk of the junket.” Jason chuckles. “And then our wedding timed after the premier will keep it in the news.” He’s teasing, his grin wide. “Purely a business move.” He jokes. “I have a percentage in this movie, after all.”

"Purely a business move," you huff, rolling your eyes at them heavily. "Nothing else. Got it. Not at all that you're completely nuts about each other and a perfect couple."

“No, that title has been take by you two.” Moira snorts. “Billie and Alex will be a close second if they were soulmates.” Jason rolls his eyes playfully. “Bronze metal in soulmates.” He moans. “Thought we were at least silver.”

"Nobody here get a bronze medal where love is involved," you insist. "But I'm going to insist we toast to all of us. Since we're all absolutely fucking adorable in love."

“I just wish Alex and Billie were here.” Moira says as she lifts her glass. “To tomorrow with friends.”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Jason hums, lifting his glass and squeezing Moira’s thigh gently under the table.

The dinner is probably the loveliest way to relax, although everyone feels the other couple’s absence. Even though the relationship, all of them, are relatively new there’s a sense of connection between you all. Like these are friendships that will go well beyond junkets and premier tours.

******

Getting ready for bed later, Javi watches you as you brush your teeth in the mirror. “I would like to update my will.” He announces softly, knowing that it will cause a longer discussion but he thinks that today’s events have prompted the need. “I want more than just the Soulmate Protection Act to safeguard you in case of something happening to me.”

“I should probably make a will.” It’s not something you’ve ever had to think about before — but this is the first time in your life you’ve ever had assets or someone to provide for. You meet Javi’s eyes in the mirror and shrug slightly. It’s not as if there is a nonzero chance of a relative trying to take assets they’re not entitled to if something happened to one of you.

“Do you want to go through my lawyer?” He has one for his agent and contracts. As well as for the legalities of his immigration and the previous issues with his family. “Or I can have recommendations for a separate lawyer?”

“There’s no reason not to use the same person, is there?” He knows far more about lawyers than you do. For all you know, it’s a bad idea.

“No, I just don’t want you to feel like I’m pressuring you to use my lawyer or that they might not represent your best interests.” Javi’s old lawyers had definitely been looking out for Lucas at his expense and he had hated how he had felt when he learned that hard lesson.

“I would hope,” you lean into his side to steady both of you and rinse off your toothbrush to put away. “That any lawyer we are using for end of life planning will be working for both of us, and for the good of our kids.”

“I just don’t want you to feel uneasy in any way.” He murmurs, turning and pressing a kiss into your hair.

“I don’t.” You can promise him that without hesitation. “I feel provided for and cared for.”

He beams, chest puffing up slightly that he makes you feel so cared for. “That’s all I ever want for you.”

“You’re doing it perfectly, baby.” He looks so sweet when he’s all proud of himself like this and you giggle. “Call your lawyer tomorrow and we’ll set up a meeting for both of us to talk to him. How does that sound?”

“That sounds perfect.” He agrees easily.

"I know neither of us want to think about something bad happening." Together, you and Javi shut off the bathroom lights and turn back into the bedroom. "But today is proof that we can't be too careful."

“Yeah.” He sighs again. “I think Alex has the day off tomorrow.” He had been told that they might shut down the production for a couple of days to regroup. The decision was going to be made in the morning. “Want to go check on him?”

"We could bring breakfast to the hospital in the morning?" The two of you climb into bed together and immediately wrap around each other like magnets, not wanting to be apart for even a second longer than necessary. "Coffee, pastries, and some flowers to brighten up the place?"

“That would be good.” Javi hums softly. “Even if he’s going home tomorrow, we can bring Billie and Alex some clothes.” He suggests. “They don’t have anything with them probably.”

"I have a key to Billie's place." You flash him a tiny grin. "And he has a drawer in her dresser. We can definitely bring them fresh clothes."

“Wait a minute…” he frowns slightly, “I thought they weren’t sleeping together.”

"They've been sleeping together." The amused smile on your face grows slightly. "Literally sleeping. Pajamas to bed and cuddling. It's the cutest fucking thing I've ever heard."

“That’s…..” Javi smiles. “Something that sounds like Billie.” He admits, having grown closer to your cousin since spending more time with her. “How does Alex feel about it?”

"Apparently he's been super sweet about it. About waiting for her to be ready." But, of course, the breaking point had come last night. Just as Billie told you. "I guess last night they were supposed to be staying at his place instead and she got...well, it didn't go as well as usual, and that's why he was distracted today. She left last night."

“Shit.” Now his face gets serious, his frown pulling his brows down. “Don’t tell me I need to beat him with a bat?”

"No, no, it's okay." The offer is sweet, though, and it earns him a kiss. "When she texted me from the hospital earlier she said they talked it out."

“Good.” He relaxes slightly and chuckles. “Because I think Alex would win.”

“If anyone was going to beat up Alex for upsetting Billie, it would be me.” But that is worth laughing at, too. Because it’s not like you could hold your own any better. “But no. They’re good.”

“You could take him.” Javi encourages, even though he knows it would be because Alex would never lay a hand on you. He’s too much of a gentleman, and doesn’t just put on an act for the cameras. “But it’s good you don’t have to. I wonder if they talked or if they decided to move on.”

"I don't think so. Billie would have said something if they decided to break up." In fact, she probably would have called. And you would have insisted she come over. It would have been a night of heartbroken cuddles to chick flicks with Chinese take out and that would have been perfect for the circumstances. "I think they'll be okay. I mean...I hope they'll be okay."

“I like them together.” He admits softly, his words whispered into your hair as he curls closer. “They remind me of us, actually.”

"Because they're stupid in love?" You hum teasingly, pressing kisses to his jaw, cheeks, and lips as you cuddle in bed.

“They just…” he frowns slightly, trying to find the right words to describe it. “Fit.” He decides. “They balance each other. She’s a little, well, a little hippy and he’s a little bit of - what do you call it? Pretty boy?”

"Pretty boy." You agree with a laugh. "She's a pink haired hippie and he's a pretty boy. That's definitely it."

“You know what I mean.” He huffs, pouting at you slightly. “They shouldn’t go together by every movie ever. But they just compliment each other.”

"The movies aren't always right, mi vida." He looks aghast that you would say that, but you grin, booping the end of his nose with your finger, and you giggle like it's punctuation. "Unless they're your movies."

“At least you think my movies are right.” He wrinkles his nose and bites playfully at the finger as you snatch it away. “I love you, amor.”

"I love you, too."

Every day, every night, every moment. Loving Javi has become part of you and you're so glad that nothing happened to him today.

------ Master Tags: @pixiedurango @chattychell @winter-fox-queen @lady-himbo @artsymaddie @princess76179 @paintballkid711 @missminkylove @pedrosbrat @ew-erin @sarahjkl82-blog @sharkbait77 @justanotherblonde23 @lv7867 @recklesswit @mylittlesenaar @f0rever15elf @gallowsjoker @steeevienicks @athalien @sherala007 @skvatnavle @thatpinkshirt @jaime1110 @girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @goodgriefitsawildworld @greeneyedblondie44 @littlemousedroid @harriedandharassed @churchill356 @ajathegreats-blog @haylzcyon   @beardsanddetectives @kirsteng42 @ladykatakuri @adancedivasmom @madiebear @tanzthompson @emilianamason @bigsdinger @xocalliexo @pedr0swh0r3 @avaleineandafryingpan @charlyrmv @avidreader73 @iceclaw101 @loveslide @elegantduckturtle @becsworld @julesonrecord @its-nebuleuse @itsrubberbisquit @mikeyswifie @guelyury @lizzie-cakes @for-a-longlongtime @vabeachazn @purplerain04 @weho2kcmo @madnessofadaydreamer

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PEDRO PASCAL & DAKOTA JOHNSON Materialists | dir. Celine Song

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PEDRO PASCAL and Dakota Johnson in a new still of Celine Song’s MATERIALISTS

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PEDRO PASCAL as Harry Castillo MATERIALISTS dir. Celine Song

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PEDRO PASCAL as Harry Castillo in Celine Song’s Materialists