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[straykidsworldwild]

DUSKWOOD

Jake x MC

Plot : MC goes to DUSKWOOD even though Jake told her not too. First time meeting.

- "I love you, MC." I read his text message.

- "I love you, too, Jake." I replied back to which he left a "read" underneath my message.

That's the last thing this idiot told me. Those three little words meant so much to me. Even more after living that crazy adventure in Dusk wood along side with him. I refused for him to go there but he is so damn stubborn that he didn't listen! He f**king went there! He didn't think for one moment that people who loved him could get scared for him! He didn't think that his disappearance would have been painful and certainly a trauma for me... I know don't know him personally. I know we just talked through a screen. But we developed a connection together. Even through a screen, I could tell his feelings for me and it made my heart go more and more crazy every single message I received from me. He had such a big impact in my life that... If I happen to lose him, I'll blame myself for the rest of my life... Because, I couldn't stop him from losing his life...

That's why I took the decision to disobey his words. He went to Duskwood when he promised me he wouldn't. He was probably there this whole time since he had to flee his persuiers and left me for a few days... And he also probably lied to me to keep me safe and to not worry for him. Now, I guess it's my turn. Maybe I won't find him. Maybe I'll never meet him. Maybe I actually go there for nothing. Maybe it's too late... But I need to go and I need to know if he is alive!

I couldn't sleep much that night, so, at 3a.m., I got up, I packed a luggage, I took all the stuff I knew I needed for this trip, I put my phone in charge while taking a shower, I got ready, I grabbed some food with me, and I left. I have a long drive ahead of me. Leaving early this morning was a good idea. Now, it will take a few hours before I get to Duskwood...

Around 3:30p.m., after driving through highways, national roads, even mountains and tunnels, I finally reached that legendary small town. Duskwood. I have never been here before, but with the pictures Jessy sent me, I manage to recognize a few spot while driving. The pictures were amazing, but now that I'm here, I can tell that it's even more beautiful than I thought. I barely drove through this small town and I already see the charm it offers. Moreover, the automnal colored leaves lying on the ground gives it some kind of magic. Duskwood is definitely a special town...

After driving through Duskwood, briefly visiting the town at the same time, I finally reach a giant woods. I know what you're going to say. How do you know this is the woods where Jake went to? Woods are just giant trees standing next to each other, they all look alike... True. But seeing the police cars, the F.B.I., and ambulances parked in front of it, it can only be here... I park my car a bit further from those and step down.

It feels weird... Being here... Alone. Usually, Jake is on the other side of my phone... He is there to comfort me if I feel the need to get comforted. And I do now... I need him. I'm scared. Standing in front of these woods, in Duskwood itself, scares me. Everything seems more real... What if it was a mistake coming here? What if it was wrong? Am I going crazy? Ugh...!

Watching the woods, I stand next to my car, motionless. I can't bring myself to move yet. Too many questions are burning my mind. They keep popping up, some of them are on repeat which scares and anxious me... Is he still live? Is he still breathing? Why still so many police cars?

My heart is pounding so hard right now, almost reminding me that I need to breathe. I take a deep breath in and finally manage to take a step forward. My legs feel heavy. Each steps I take makes me more and more nervous because I know I am getting closer and closer to that spot... Everything will change once I'll be there. Good or bad... It will change, and it scares the hell out of me.

Walking and climbing on dead leaves and branches, I slowly reach the entry of that site. The feeling is definitely different... Being here in person and watching it from behind a screen... It's different. The FBI are roaming around, most certainly searching for clues and evidence. Police officers from Duskwood are even here. I wonder if Alan Bloomgate is here. Okay... It's pretty serious. Usually, you see this on TV... I look around until my eyes stop at the entrance of that cave. He went in there... He must have been so scared... What if he is still down there? What if he couldn't come back up? What if they found him? Oh God...

I take a step back as stress and anxiousness take over me. My heart is palpitating so fast in my chest. I can even hear my heartbeat in my ears... My hands are becoming very sweaty and my breathing is getting heavy...

- Excuse me, miss! I rapidly look up and see a man approaching me. You can't come here, tells me, a police officer from Duskwood. I notice it just by the uniform he wears.

- Wait, no, my friends were in there! I exclaim with a point of fear mixed with despair in my voice.

- I'm sorry but you have to step back, he insists seriously, not caring of what I just told him.

- Please, just tell me how they're doing. Please! I plead him, impossible for me to give up. What if Jake...? No! I refuse to believe it. And besides, the FBI wouldn't still be here if they found him.

- Miss, step back now! I won't repeat myself! He tells me, slightly raising his voice. He spoke with such a stern tone. As if I was a child not listening to him.

- I'm just asking how they're doing! Please, I need to know! I repeat myself, disliking the way he talked to me. I'm not touching or pushing him. I haven't raised my voice on him. And I haven't insulted him. Why losing it on me?

- Miss!... He half screams at me. He grabs me by my shoulder and pushes me backwards.

- Hey! I suddenly hear a man exclaiming behind him, before I could say something. The police officer takes his hand off and turns around as I look up to see who it was. Another one... Great... Let her to me. Go see if agent Shepherds needs you. He's on site at the entrance of the mine, he tells his coworker with a dead serious tone.

- Yes, sir, replies the police officer before leaving. He didn't argue... Is he his superior? I stay quiet and watch the man leave.

- Hi, I'm Alan Bloomgate. How may I help you? He introduced himself to me before kindly offering his attention. Bloomgate?

- Alan... Bloomgate? Police Chief Department of Duskwood? I question with a surprised tone.

- In person. Why do you look so surprised? He asks back, looking confused himself.

- I just... I thought you were going to look much older. Sorry, I reply with honesty. The man nods. He doesn't seem to know how to react on my comment. Yet, a small smile appeared on his face. But it didn't last for long.

- You said your friends were in there. I believe you are MC, he suddenly tells me. Oh... How...? He didn't see my face when we were on a call...

- How do you...? We just talked on... Are they okay-Wait, I... I blabber so fast that I don't know which question I want to ask first. Suddenly, a wave of dizziness hits me. The ground feels like it's wobbly.

- Wow, are you okay? He asks as he catches me. The police Chief Department of Duskwood helps me sit on cut tree trunk that wasn't too far. Do you want me to call emergency? He kindly offers.

- No, I just need to sit a bit. I'm sorry, it's... The tiredness, all the sudden emotions,... The situation itself. A mixed of everything, I answer sincerely and seriously as I take a few breaths.

- I understand. But don't worry, thanks to you, everything is over, he answers, giving a small comforting smile. Over? I look at him with a shocked expression when the tears began to come up. Over... I don't know if I like the sound of that. Could over means no more Jake? I'm sorry about Richy Rogers. I believe he was also a friend of yours, he suddenly tells me as I see on his face that he doesn't know what to do.

- I thought so too... I whisper shakily due to my tears.

- Let me get you a coffee and then we can talk? He kindly suggests. I nod as I saw he was waiting for an answer from me. The Police Chief Department leaves, walking towards his colleagues. What am I doing here? Was I wrong to come here? Suddenly, I feel my phone buzzing. My heart skips a beat, hoping it is Jake... Oh Thank God!

- "MC. I thought I told you not to come here until I contacted you again. Are you okay?" I read the text message from none other than Jake himself. A part of me feels happy because if he contacted me, that means he is still alive. I have been waiting for days for his message! Yet, I don't like the sound of his message. I look up and look around me as discreetly as I can. I don't see anyone... Oh! This silhouette hiding behind the tree...

- Jake... I whisper with a sudden hope in my voice. I don't know where it came from. I want to run up to him... I want to run up to Jake and hug him. After everything that happened, after every message we shared, the happy and the sad moments... I want to see his face. To discover the real face of who I have been talking with the whole time.

- "Are you okay?" I look at the screen of my phone as it buzzed again. What kind of question is this? Who is okay right now? I get up, still looking in his direction.

- Miss, MC? startled, I turn around to face Mr. Bloomgate. Here's your coffee, he tells me as he hands me the coffee. I accept it despite disliking it and smile to thank him. As if nothing happened... I glance quickly back at where Jake was but I cannot see him anymore. Did he leave? Where is he? I didn't know if you wanted sugar so I brought some, tells me the Police Chief Department. I look at the sugar, staying quiet. Are you okay? He asks me with concern.

- Yes, I'm okay. Well... As okay as I can be after all of this, I state sincerely, not really knowing what else I could say.

- Do you mind me asking you a few questions? He gently asks. Whatever answer I will give him won't change the fact that I need to answer them. If not now, it'll be later...

- No, I... Please, ask them, I reply with a small voice. Where's Jake? Why is he still around? I watch Bloomgate get a pen and a piece of paper to take notes.

- How did you get in contact with everyone? He starts asking.

- They contacted me first. But I don't know how they found my phone number, I reply, trying not to lie too much about this situation. Well, I don't have much to hide except everything that concerns Jake.

- Who contacted you? He asks me as he finishes taking notes from the previous question.

- Thomas. He made a group chat with all of the others, I respond as I keep my eyes on the ground. It's like I am scared to look up and to see Jake around. If I see him, everyone can as well. I don't like that.

- There was a Hacker helping you, right? Or was he a nuisance at finding Hannah? He continues to ask me. A nuisance? Jake... I need to be extra careful of what I'm telling him now. I look at the police chief with a slight upset frown.

- A nuisance? The hacker was our best friend in this investigation. He helped us in so many ways, even the police couldn't do. No offense, I answer with a defensive tone. Maybe I shouldn't have react like this. It will make things obvious...

- None taken. Has the Hacker ever threatened you in any way? He asks me. How many questions does he have? Why would Jake threaten us?

- No, I simply reply.

- Did he forced you to say that? I look at Bloomgate for a second, surprised by the question. What is he doing? Trying to reach me emotionally so I would give answers he couldn't get?

- No. Of course not, I say seriously. Suddenly, Alan lowers his notes and cut his radio. What is he doing? I watch the Police Chief Department looking around, as if he doesn't want anyone to hear us. Why?

- He was in there, wasn't he? He questions with a small voice, making sure no one hears us.

- No, he wasn't, I answer, giving him a lie.

- You love him, don't you? He states. He already knows the answer, why ask?

- I thought you were going to ask questions about this investigation, I remind him with a calm tone. I can't let him get to me.

- He loves you too, doesn't he? He continues to state, as if he slowly got all the pieces. And maybe he actually has some of them...

- I don't know, I reply. It's true, maybe he was just playing a game with me after all...

- I don't believe you, miss, I quietly stare at the Police Chief Department. I watch him grab his radio and turn a button. It makes a sound and then nothing. Please, tell me the truth. It's just between us. My radio is off. I do not write your answers anymore. And we're alone, he calmly says to me, speaking with a gentle tone. He almost seems to be a friend. He spoke with a small voice, like someone wanting to know a secret. Well, it's kind of the case...

- He wasn't in the mine. How could he? I reply seriously and gently, still following Jake's demand.

- The FBI is here. They would have never came for Hannah or Richy. So I'm guessing this hacker of yours is wanted. And he was here. I'm also guessing that you wouldn't be here if he wasn't in there, he tells me, giving me more and more proof that he already knows half the truth. Well, some of those things are hard to hide and hard not to link.

- Maybe... But I honestly don't know if he was in there or not, I respond sincerely as I shrug. Mr. Bloomgate nods. I can't tell if he believes me or not. His expressions are pretty stoic.

- Do you know what he looks like? He asks me as I see him holding his pen and block note up. I wish I knew...

- No, he never showed his face and he never let us hear his real voice either. He always made sure that his identity was hidden, I answer with sincerity once again. Now that I think about it, I went to look for a guy I fell in love over a crazy adventure across my phone with people living at the other side of the country and I don't even know my lover's face. Damn... How crazy is that?

- I can sense strong emotions coming from you when you talk about him. How come? He says seriously. He knows he isn't going to get much answers from me, so he analyzes me. Smart... But I'm smart too.

- I'm a pretty emotive person. Too emotive maybe, I reply, avoiding what he's truly trying to do.

- Phil Hawkins was released. He called someone from prison. Was it you? He slightly changed the subject. Phil... Jessy's brother. I almost forgot about him.

- Yes, it was, I answer.

- Weird. He could have called his sister instead. He doesn't know you but he trusts you than them. Can you explain this to me? He says, frowning as he seems curious. Well... I can't tell either why he called me to be honest... So how can I explain this?

- You will have to ask him this in person. I do not know why he trusts me so much or why he called me, I respond to the Police Chief Department. He nods once more.

- What about your friends? Why not believing Phil Hawkins, someone they know? Why believing you, a stranger? He continues to ask me his questions. More and more... When is this interrogation ending?

- I don't know. I guess... They sort of put everything on my shoulders. Their trust must have come slowly as I was helping them step by step, I answer, giving him the truth. Well, I think it is. I don't see why else they would trust me so blindly. The man nods as he seems a bit defeated. There aren't many answers I can give him to be honest...

- Thank you. That's all I'll ask for today, he tells me as he puts his pen and block note in his pocket and turns back on his radio.

- I'm not a bad person Mr Bloomgate, the Police Chief Department looks at me attentively. None of us are. Except... Richy. I misjudged him. I let him fooled me. I really thought he was one of us. I know why you're asking those questions. And I'm answering them truthfully. There's no point for me to lie to you, I reply sincerely to him. I have no reason to lie. My only reason is to protect Jake but the rest, I don't have any reason to lie. I'm just telling him what he needs to know. No more.

- I believe you. But I think you need to rest before we finish this. You look very tired, he says with an actual caring tone.

- I am. I haven't slept in the last 23h, I admit to the man.

- Do you know where you're sleeping? He gently asks me. I shake my head negatively. I didn't really think about that. I guess I thought my car was going to be enough... There's a motel in town. I'll give a call for you and make a reservation. When you arrive there, your room will be ready for you. The person will greet you warmly, he says as I see him taking his phone out. Maybe a phone only for work? I doubt that's his personal one...

- Thank you very much, Mr. Bloomgate, I thank the Police Chief Department with a smile.

- Please, if you need anything, contact me, he says with seriousness.

- Thank you, I smile once more, appreciating his gesture.

- One last thing. Did the hacker do things for you that he would have not done for anyone else? He asks me. Is it part of the interrogation or is he just curious? Is he testing me to see if I lie or not?

- Yes. He has I confess. Mr. Bloomgate smiles.

- Have a nice day, miss MC, he says politely.

- You too, Mr. Bloomgate, I wish back before watching him walk away. Mr. Bloomgate is kind but not stupid. He knows I lied a bit to him. He'll certainly contact me again soon... In what kind of situation am I in? Suddenly, my phone buzzes.

- "MC..." I read the first text from Jake. "Don't say too much. Be careful with his tricky questions.", He added. "MC, tell me once he is done asking you questions.", I read the third text. Don't say too much... He knows I will never sell him away. Of course I wouldn't say too much...

- "It's over.", I simply sent him back, not in the mood to talk. I love Jake with everything in me despite never meeting. But I... I'm so tired right now, so stressed, so... Overwhelmed. Why can't things be easier?

- "Are you okay? What did he ask you?" I read his new message. Am I okay? I don't know. Probably not, just like he is. I sigh and pass my hand in my hair before lowering my phone. I don't take time to answer. My phone buzzes again. "You are angry.", He texted me. Oh. So he is still watching me. He isn't far... If he can see me, why ask if I'm okay? He must see that I'm not... I'm so tired. Emotionally, mentally, physically... I don't answer him once again. "MC, I can see that you read my text messages. Please, answer me.", He adds, seeming worried. I sigh one more time as I feel the tears coming up.

- "You want answers? Let's meet then. This has to stop, Jake. No more lies. I need to see you! I need to hear your voice! I need you to hold me! To tell me everything will be alright now! That everything I did for you was worth it! I need you because I feel absolutely terrified right now.. You've become my safe place, Jake..", I responded to the man before hearing policemen shouting behind me. I turn around and see them all still focused on the cave. Oh God, I thought they saw him. Where is he by the way? If he can see me, I should be able to see him too. And he isn't standing where I saw him before...

- "Tonight. I will send you a location." He replied. Tonight? More hours to wait... I let my first tear roll down my face. Why does everything feel like time has stopped? It's so long...

- "Will you?" I reply before wiping my tears. I'm even starting to doubt everything now... Everything. I turn back around and take a deep breath in when I notice a shadow next to a tree farther from where I am standing. It's half hiding behind the tree trunk. That hoodie... Jake.

- "I know you see me. I wanted to show you that I am here. With you, MC. But don't come up to me. They could find me. I'm already putting myself at risk by standing here.", He sent me. My heart keeps beating so fast down my chest. Even watching him from afar makes me feel like a wave of energy just hit me. Like I sort of live again. He is here. For me. He came and stayed. He waited despite the danger for him. And I'm there complaining... How selfish am I? Still, now that I saw him, I can't wait until tonight. We could leave right now while they are bothered with the cave.

- "I don't want to wait until tonight. I want to see you, Jake. Now.", I sent him before biting my lower lip out of nervousness.

- "MC, I want to see you too, more than anything. But I can't for the moment. It's too dangerous for both of us. I need to find a spot to stay safe and I need you to stay safe too.", He replied. Oh... Well... I lower my phone, not answering him and start to walk away. I think I should just regain my car then... Mr. Bloomgate will call me if he has more questions. Right now, it's the perfect timing to leave. "MC, where are you going?" I read his new text message without unlocking my phone. I sigh and unlock it to answer him.

- "I'm leaving. I don't think you actually want to see me.", I press on "sent" as I keep walking.

- "MC, of course I want to see you!" He quickly replied. He never replied that fast before. I shake my head negatively and just follow the way I took to go back to my car. "MC, don't leave. Please. Tonight, we see each other. I promise you.", He added.

- "I haven't slept since yesterday, and the nights before, I slept maybe 3 or 4 hours. I was damn worried for you! To the point I even had anxiety! All police officers and F.B.I agents are there! We could have seen each other somewhere far from here since they are bothered with the cave. We could have left together right now! But you prefer waiting tonight? Really??" I reply back as I feel a new tear rolling down my face. Tears of anger, fear, and tiredness...

Jake read my text message but didn't reply. Seriously? What does his silence mean? Upset, I wipe my tears only to have more falling down my cheeks.

Under my feet, I can hear the leaves cracking. I stepped over a root, almost falling as I barely saw it with my tears. Jake... Why is everything so complicated?

I rapidly step out of the woods and reach my car. I was so into my thoughts that I barely noticed the time I put to exit the woods... Standing next to my car, I take my keys out of my pocket to unlock it but, I accidentally drop them along with the coffee. Great! I pick them up and wipe my cheeks before hearing my car beeping. Unlocked. Oh... What the...?

On my car window, I see the reflection of a man standing right behind me. I stopped. I freeze. I completely stopped moving or even breathing for a second. The man sounds breathless, like he ran for his life. He is wearing a hoodie, I can't see his face, just like... Staring at him through the window, I take a deep breath before sniffling. He came...

I watch him slowly take off his hoodie, revealing his face to me. Jake looks down and slightly titles his head on the side. Oh God... I close my eyes and lean against my car as I cry silently.

- MC... He softly calls me. The sound of his voice is just so heavenly. No electronic background, not modified by a computer... It's real. I lift my hand up for him to stay quiet. Jake stays silent. I wipe my cheeks and slowly turn around to face the man I've been dying to meet for months. Damn... I sniffle as I bring my hand towards his arm. I can touch him... He's real. He's in front of me and real. That bastard. I push the man twice, tears rolling down before he catches my wrists and pulls me against him. I am wrapped by his arms, engulfed in his chest. I let a sob out as I feel like everything needs to get out. He is here now... I'm here, I hear him whispering softly.

- I hate you... I say, even though I don't mean it. Why do you have to scare me like that? I question him as I hold tightly onto the man.

- I'm sorry, he whispers. His hold is so comforting, so soft. I thought he would pull away from me, having enough. But instead, he rests his head in my neck. His perfume smells so nice. The two of us stay like this for a moment, enjoying this type of freedom. But everything has sadly an end. I pull away from Jake and look up at him. The both of us stay quiet, still enjoying the moment a little longer. Jake wipes my tears away, his touch being so soft.

- Ugh, you have blue eyes...! I exclaim in awe, making him smile. And a beautiful smile. Such a waste to hide that from the world, I add sincerely with a point of flirting.

- Maybe, but if I didn't hide from the world, it wouldn't just be for you, he replies with his adorable smile. I stare at him, enjoying the view and the moment. I hope this won't be the last one... I hope it won't be the only time I see him. Suddenly, Jake passes his hand behind my neck as I step backwards and him forward. My back bumps against my car. My arms are around his back, keeping him close. My heart is racing so bad despite feeling like time has suddenly stopped. The boy takes a bit of time but he eventually leans in, slowly. I do the same and close my eyes when I feel his lips connecting with mines. God, they're so soft! The kiss... Is so passionate, so deep. I answer his kiss, moving one of my hands to place it behind his neck to put some more pressure. I didn't think he would have made the first move.. I didn't see him as this kind of confident guy. But I like it. Eventually, after a moment, the both of us pulled away to catch our breath. I was about to pull him against me, but he did it first, hiding his face in my neck again. I love you, MC. Maybe you'll find this ridiculous but... You make me feel safe and loved, he whispers softly. I rub his back to comfort him. I don't want to let him go. He is so close to me. I dreamed of that moment for months.

- It's not ridiculous at all. You make me feel the same way, I whisper back as I feel him pull me even closer to him. He places a kiss on my neck before pulling away from me. It's crazy but, despite the actual situation and the FBI or the Police Department potentially coming out from the woods, I feel like a bubble of happiness just got created around us. It's like it is keeping us away from everything. Like we are in our own little world. how's that possible? What's that feeling... Love? Softly, he grabs my hand and intertwines our fingers. I'm selfish, aren't I? I add with a sorry tone, still whispering.

- No. I was dying to see you too, he rapidly answered, comforting me in the idea of being selfish and potentially putting him in danger. I crack a smile and nod positively.

- Where are you going to go now? I ask him as I lose my smile. I squeezed his hand, scared of his answer. He can go anywhere once again. He is "free" in a way. He can disappear... Jake puts some time to answer, seeming to think.

- Where are you going? He asks me with a soft smile. Oh..!

- I don't know. Anywhere. Everywhere, I reply, making him chuckle. Honestly, I really don't know where to go. to my house and live my boring life like before? After all of this? No... You have to go, don't you? I ask him with a disappointed tone, unable to bring myself to smile at him. Jake looks up, thinking as he leans on the car, still holding my hand.

- Before they come and find me, yeah... But I don't have to leave alone this time. Maybe we could leave together. To go anywhere, everywhere, he tells me as he softly rubs the back of my hand with his thumb. Anywhere and everywhere... That's what I said. I smile, still surprised by his answer. I didn't think he would propose such an idea. That's... Everything I wished actually. As long as I'm not visible to the FBI and my pursuers, we can go anywhere you'd like, MC, he tells me with a smile. Anywhere... That sounds like a wild adventure, but also like heaven to my ears.

I smile at Jake before stepping forward and crashing my lips onto his. The boy answers to my move, giving me back the same love I am giving.

An adventure is waiting for the both of us. It doesn't matter where we go, it's there. Now that we met, that we survived this crazy adventure with Thomas, Jessy, Phil,.., We need to go forward. We need to move one. And it's just starting. Jake and I have grown feelings over the months, after all of those messages. There's so much that we have live together, to experience, so much that we can share. Yes, it will have to be secretive and we'll have to be extra careful. But it is worth a try. He knows what he is doing. And I'm ready to follow him wherever he goes. It might sound crazy. But I just... I love him with everything in me, I can't just let him go.

Not wasting time, the two of us get inside my car and I start driving where he indicated me. We had to go get his stuff before leaving. I still don't know where we're going, but I'm pretty sure once we reach our destination, I'll have to leave my car there. I'll actually have to leave everything I had and knew behind me. My life is changing completely. It scares me. The unknown scares me. But I'm doing it with Jake. I should be fine. I trust him. Maybe it's actually what's best to do. Starting a new life, full of love and adventures, living incredible moments for the both of us to share. Love is a mysterious feeling and unexplainable, but when you know you are with the right person, nothing feels impossible. It's you two against the world, and that's what we're going to do. We'll fight together, hide together, live those adventures together, and most importantly, love each other. We'll see what the future holds for us..

[straykidsworldwild]

New drawing done today!! I saw this one on Internet (amazingly beautiful may I say) and wanted to reproduce it 😁😍

[straykidsworldwild]

You and Changbin are face timing after you had a bad day 🥰

[straykidsworldwild]

Little facetime at night with Hyunjin 🥰

[straykidsworldwild]

DUSKWOOD

Phil x MC (pregnant part 4/4)

Plot : MC and Phil are finally parents.

(I don't own the pictures. I only own the collage. Credits go to the owners.)

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~ 6 months later ~

- How are my two princesses doing? I hear Phil's deep voice asking me sweetly as he walks in our shared bedroom. I am facing my wardrobe, doing some stretching. The bottom of my back and of my belly has been hurting me since last afternoon. It started in the middle of it, around 4p.m... It felt like small cramps but it was strong enough for me to feel it. Maybe baby is just moving around...

- Well, one is sleeping pretty well inside mommy's belly and the other one feels like a huge whale, I reply as I turn around and face Phil. I cannot wait to meet our baby. One, because I'm just so excited to hold this little bundle of joy that I created. Two, because I cannot wait to see my feet again...

- Well, mommy is very beautiful the way she looks, replies, Phil, smiling gently at me. I chuckle as my boyfriend places his hands on each side of my belly. Wow...! I push Phil's hands and hold myself with one hand onto the wardrobe behind me. The other one holds my belly, rubbing it softly. The pain wasn't that important before... Your back hurts? Or did I hurt you? I hear Phil asking me, looking confused and surprised at the same time. Yest, he seems concerned. I don't reject him usually...

- No, it's not you. I've been having cramps since last night, I admit to my boyfriend as I take a deep breath in and out. Of course, I haven't told him how bad the cramps feel... Okay, seems like it's gone.

- Is it normal? Are you okay? He continues to ask me questions as he sounds more and more worried.

- Yeah, it's just... Intense time to time, I confess to him. I don't want him to panic. He looks already so worried...

- Wait, sit down a bit, he tells me with a caring tone as he softly places a hand on my belly while his other one snakes around my back to help me walk a few steps. Phil leads me to our bed and we sit on the edge of it. It feels nice to sit a bit... Are you sure you're not in labor? He then asks me, sounding serious. What?

- The baby is coming in ten days, Phil. It's not now, I remind him while rubbing my stomach.

- But it's possible that it comes sooner, no? He questions, sounding unsure of his statement. Phil might be older than me and he might know a lot of things, he still has this naive side of his which I find totally adorable.

- Yes, of course. But I'm fine. Really, I respond, trying to comfort him. I give him a smile as I stare lovingly into his eyes. However, despite my words and my smile, Phil still looks unsure. Well, even I didn't convinced myself... I would have been a terrible actress... I need to do the laundry, Phil, I say while placing my hand on top of his.

- Don't worry, I'll do it, he says, getting up quickly to grab the white basin.

- I need to do something, Phil. I can't just sit around and... I begin to say to Phil as I stood up from the bed to join him. However, I wasn't fully standing on my feet when a wave of pain hit my lower abdomen. I groaned in pain as I fell back on the bed side. Those are definitely not cramps...

- MC! Calls me, my boyfriend, dropping the basin while rushing up to my sides. Oh God...

- Okay, maybe you're right. I'm in labor-Ahh! I tell him all while wincing in pain. And I beleive it's just the beginning...

- Okay, hum... What should I do? He tells me with some panic in his voice. I look at Phil as I take deep breaths in and out. His eyes are so full of stress and worry... He tries not to show it but he actually panics... His hands are lightly shaking. I take hold of them and make him look at me.

- First, don't panic. Second... I tell him with a calm tone before stopping abruptly talking. Something dripping down my legs... My water's breaking, wait... The two of us look down. I don't see anything, obviously, but I can feel the water dripping and hear it falling on the floor.

- Oh... Is-is... Did...? Starts saying, Phil, as he looks back up at me. He seems lost and a bit scared.

- The suitcase is all packed in our closet. You just need to put it in the car, I remind him calmly as I feel another wave of pain hurting me. I groan out of pain as I feel Phil placing a hand over my belly and the other one finds its way to my hand. I squeeze his hand until the contraction is over. Staying calm is the best I can do right now...

- You're okay? Is it over? He asks me with a caring tone. I nod before looking up at him with teary eyes.

- I need to go to the hospital, Phil, my boyfriend didn't waste time and ran to get the suitcase to place it in his car. I stayed by myself for the next two minutes before he came back to get me. We left the apartment and walked to his car.

The ride felt so long for me. Maybe for Phil too... I don't know. He seemed so focus on the road but so worried at the same time. My boyfriend kept his left hand on the stirwheel while his other one held my hand tightly. He didn't let go once. Every time I would get a contraction, he would give it a squeeze and say sweet and encouraging words to help me go through it. It's like he was trying to take the pain away from me. The contractions are getting longer and they are more and more painful each time. I'm not going to lie, I let a tear rolling down my cheek as it felt like I was being snatched from inside. I don't usually cry over pain but this kind of pain... Wow! Phil wiped my few tears away instantly before taking hold of my hand once again. And to add more, during the ride, my water broke twice more which made me feel embarrassed and a bit more nervous. Staying calm is definitely the hardest thing to do right now... I told Phil, but he didn't seem to care about it certainly ruining his car seat. Instead, I just felt him rubbing the back of my hand softly. He just wants to calm me down the best he can all while driving us safely to the hospital.

At the hospital, he helped me walk inside the building all while rolling my suitcase. Phil screamed, calling for help. Doctors or nurses came to us instantly and they took care of me. Not even fifteen or twenty minutes later, Phil and I were in a room for patient in the maternity section. The doctors told me that I have to wait a few more hours as I am not dilated enough to greet our baby to this world. Thus, Phil stayed with me and helped me go through all of the hard moments so far.

Doctors came to check on me an hour ago. They said it was still not enough dilated for the baby to come but it's getting there. So I wait and wait, and endure the pain the contraction are giving me. I can't describe the pain with words. It's at such a level that, to understand it, we need to go through it.

Three hours later, I am slowly walking around the room with the help of Phil. I can feel myself sweating and my thighs starting to hurt.

- Wait, stop, stop, I say to my boyfriend as I hold my belly and lean forward a bit. I let groans of pain out which are almost screaming at this point. I agreed to take the epidural, but the pain is still intense... Phil is standing behind me, massaging my lower back to relax me. It hurts so much! I say with pain in my voice as I take deep breaths in and out.

- It's going to be okay, MC. Just tell yourself that we're soon going to be three at home, he tells me with a small cheerful tone as he keeps a positive vibe. But I can't bring up the positivity in me when I feel such pain at the moment.

- Phil, I need you-Ahh! I cry through the pain as I ignore his comment. Phil went to grab a chair from the room and helped me sit on it. I continue to groan in pain while my boyfriend kneels before me. I grip onto his shirt so tightly that my knuckles turned white. Phil lets me do, not bothered if I ruin his shirt or not.

- Breath, MC. Take deep breath, he tells me softly as he holds onto my hand that is griping his shirt. I groan and let a sudden sob out. The tears are coming up again... I start to slowly relax as the contraction is coming to an end. Phil feels it and rubs my hand as a sign of encouragement. You're doing very well, Gorgeous, he tells me as he wipes my tears away.

- Promise me you'll stay with me during the whole time I'll be giving birth, I tell him with some fear in my voice.

- Of course I will. Don't worry of me leaving because it's never going to happen, he says with a comforting tone. I nod to his response before letting a long breath out. I get up from the chair with Phil's help and walk back to the bed. My boyfriend helps me lay back on it. How much longer? I look at the monitor next to me when another wave of pain get me. They're getting closer and closer... And more intense. They seem to get closer and closer, states, Phil, as he grabbed my hand to let me squeeze it one more time. Ugh, what's this...?

- Get a nurse, please, I tell him with a surprising rushed tone.

- Something's wrong? He asks me, panic heard in his voice for a second. Something's wrong? What?

- Get a nurse, Phil! The baby's coming! I tell him as the urge of pushing feels more and more important. Without wasting time, Phil runs out of the room and go get a nurse like I asked him.

A few seconds later, Phil came back with doctors running behind him. He gets to my side and takes my hand in his one more time as the doctors get ready to help me give birth. It was one of the most intense moment in my life. I've never felt such pain before. I've never gave such energy before either. And I don't remember when was the last time I was this nervous. However, despite all of this, when our baby was finally here, I couldn't help but to feel overjoyed, alive. I just gave birth to my first baby... I made this little bundle of joy and I get to hold it for the first time! Phil almost fainted when they handed me the baby. It's so tiny! So adorable! It's mine. She's ours. The doctors gave a chair to Phil so he could sit. I looked at him and saw him shred tears of joy. I smiled as I was watching at the two loves of my life...

~ Few month later ~

- You, my little princess, are very beautiful in this pyjama. You definitely got the beauty from your mommy, you know that? Oh yes, you have a beautiful mom. But between you and me, you're the most beautiful one, I hear Phil saying discretely, yet not so discretely, to our daughter. The two of us are still living in this small apartment with our baby, but next month we are moving out to a new home. I cannot wait to be there. One, because we'll have more space. Two, because we'll get to make incredible memories there, and I can't wait to make them.

I am leaning against the door frame, smiling, when I see Phil tickling our baby girl. I hear her laughing which is just so adorable. She's so perfect!

- Should I be jealous? I suddenly say as I walk in. Phil softly laughs as he picks our baby up and turns around to face me.

- So jealous. Have you seen her face, Gorgeous? So adorable! Tells me, Phil, before he covers our daughter's face with sweet kisses. Our princess laughs once again under the tickles Phil is giving her. I laugh back and take my baby from her father's arms.

- I carried this baby. I gave birth to this baby. I was the first face she saw. Of course, I've seen her face, I reply with love as I kiss the top of her head delicately. Phil smiles at the sight of the two girls of his life before snaking his arms around my waist. He leans in and places a soft kiss on my lips, expressing all of his love.

- I love you, MC, so much, he whispers with love after pulling away.

- I love you too, Phil, I whisper back, getting on my tip toes to peck his lips once more. I let a small giggle out before walking out from our baby's room to go to the living room.

- Jessy agreed to take this princess for the weekend, so she comes in a few hours. We have two days for ourselves, tells me, my boyfriend, as I watch him taking a cigarette and his lighter out from his pocket.

- Mmmh... Should I understand something? I say with a suggestive tone while smirking. Phil chuckles as he walks towards the kitchen.

- Well, if you didn't, it's fine. I'll just have to show you tonight, my love, he responds before entering the kitchen and closing the door behind him. Phil has taken the habit to smoke away from me since I am pregnant. And ever since we brought our baby back home, he doesn't want to smoke near us so he locks himself in the kitchen and smokes by the window. I appreciate that. I really love his caring side. He's very thoughtful. I chuckle at Phil's comment as I sit on the sofa with my baby sitting on my legs...

- Daddy definitely knows what he is doing to mommy. Oh yes, I say to my baby girl as I hold her against my chest.

~ Later that night ~

Jessy came about two hours ago and picked up our little girl for two nights. I'm not going to lie, I already miss her. I can't wait to go pick her up from her aunt's. I haven't been separated from her ever since we brought her home. It feels weird.

On the other hand, I'm really glad to have a real dinner just between Phil and I. It's not our first one, but all of those little things we do for each other always make them special to me.

I got ready about an hour ago and now I'm preparing for the super. Phil is getting ready as well. He should be done by now but I haven't seen him got out from the bathroom yet. Oh, where's the salt?

- Phil? Where’s the salt? I ask my boyfriend as I look in all of the closets in our kitchen. I wait for an answer but I don't hear anything. Phil? Babe? I call him once again as I thought he didn't hear me. Why is he not answering? I frown confused and step out from the kitchen to enter the living room. Phi...? I was about to call him when I hear one of my favorite songs playing. The floor is covered of petals of roses, the light isn't too bright or too low which gives a romantic atmosphere, and candles are lite up around the room. In the middle of the living room, Phil is standing there, wearing a nice black trousers with a white shirt half button up. His hair are well tied back in a bun. He looks amazing! Phil, what’s going on? I ask him while giggling. We had romantic dinners before but this one... Wow!

- MC, he calls me as he walks over to me. Phil offers me a beautiful rose which I acceot. The petals are colored of a deep red. You’re so beautiful, he says with a sincere tone. However, he sounded surprisingly nervous. His voice shaked a bit.

- You alright? I've never seen you nervous before, I ask him with some concern. Phil smiles and nods before taking a step back. He clears his throat and take a deep breath in and out. What's taking him?

- Before meeting you, I was... Nothing. I mean, I was just Phil Hawkins, the guy who owns a bar and loved sleeping around with women. That’s all I was and that’s all I knew. But... Things changed... I stare at my boyfriend, listening to his speech. He seems so nervous... He's taking all of his courage to do this confession. Ever since that night we had together at your birthday, you helped me learn that I could have more than what I had. You helped me learn how to be a real man. You helped me realized that I am worth something. You showed me that I could have a real woman, with a real home, and a child of our own. I realized that I could create a whole story with the partner of my life. You gave and keep giving me what nobody ever gave me and... Phil suddenly stops talking. I smile at his words as I start to feel teary. Why is he saying all of this suddenly? Why is he so nervous and emotional? Suddenly, Phil gets down on one knee and pulls a red velvet box out from his pocket.

- Phil...! I exclaim, covering my mouth with my hand.

- You’re the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, MC. You gave me a beautiful daughter, you gave me the chance to change and to become a better man, and you gave me real love. I love you so much, Gorgeous. So... I watch Phil opening the small box, revealing a beautiful ring. I gasp in surprise as I feel my first tears rolling down my cheeks. Wi... Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife and to live the rest of your life with me? Asks me, Phil, popping the question that can change our whole life. My eyes alternate between the ring and his eyes.

- Yes... Yes! Yes! Yes! I exclaim with happiness as I cannot stop the tears flowing down my cheeks. Phil smiles brightly as I feel him putting the ring on my finger. My man stands back up on his feet and envelopes my waist with his arms before crashing his lips on mine with so much fierce. I answer to his kiss, the two of us giving as much love as we can through the kiss. The two of us pull away, but he sticks his forehead on mine.

- Let's go make another baby, he tells me playfully, yet, with seriousness. I laugh and give him another kiss before pulling away.

- Fine, but you carry it this time, I reply with the same playful tone he used. Phil picks me up and I circle his waist with my legs.

- I can't do that. And you did an amazing job with our first baby. You can only just do as amazing with the second one, he says as he begins to devour my neck and jawline while bringing up to our bedroom.

That night was one of the best and most magical night I've ever had. Everything is just going so well. I have my baby girl, my boyfriend is now my fiancé, we're moving inside a new house next month... And who knows, maybe our family will grow in a few months. It's a whole new beginning for us and I cannot wait to live it the fullest!

[straykidsworldwild]

DUSKWOOD

PhilxMC - Pregnant (part 3/4)

Plot : Phil and MC are going to the store to get stuff for the baby.

(I don't own the pictures. I only own the collage. Credits go to the owners.)

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~ 3 months later ~

- Hey, you're ready? I hear Phil asking me kindly before he places a kiss on top of my head.

Phil and I have grown closer ever since the day I had my ultrasound. Ever since we saw our baby for the first time. It really all started to grow more and more from there. The feelings for each other were here but with our baby on the way... It's different. I can't put words to explain how different it is, all I can say is that it is a good different.

We haven't moved together yet though. Phil still has his apartment and I still have mine. But he spends most of his nights here. With few exceptions... Whenever he closes the Aurora late... Or early in the morning, he goes back to his apartment to "not disturb my sleep", he says. I think it's a kind thought but I honestly sleep better when he is with me. I grew to be used to have him next to me at night.

- Yes, I'm just counting how much money I can put in the baby's stuff for now, I respond to my boyfriend as he takes a sit next to me. Phil and I have officialized our relationship about a month and a half ago. It surprised more than one person. Some even thought it was a prank or a bad joke that Phil made because he had me in his bed. And I think some still don't believe it. Sadly, I can't do anything about it...

I am staring at the little piece of paper before me and the calculator, hoping we can at least afford for the furniture this month. I just hope we can find the minimum and the essential for now... I pass my hand over my face, feeling tired and a little bit stressed. Phil gets his chair closer to me and places his arm on the back of the chair behind me.

- How much do you have? He asks with a calm voice, looking at the equations I did.

- I can put at the very maximum $600, I answer as I show him what I've done so far. I look up at my boyfriend's fair face, watching a lock of his hair falling free from his messy bun. Phil gently takes the pen from my hand and add a number under the $600.

- That's a start. I also counted and I can put $700 for now, he says as he puts the pen down and looks up at me. He did? When? Our eyes meet one another for a brief moment. His eyes are always so comforting and spreading so much love. I know Phil knows how to charm a girl, but I like to believe those emotions are just for me. Maybe I'm a fool... I can't help but to crack a smile. Phil smiles back before pushing softly my hair behind my shoulder.

- So we have a total of $1.300. That should be enough for now, I say with a positive tone. Despite having a few problems and a minimum of help, I still manage to keep it positive. We're doing this together after all.

- What do you want to look at first? He asks me gently as I feel him playing with the tips of my hair. I smile as I let a small sigh out. There's so much we need to look for...

- Well, I thought we could look for the crib first and for a baby car seat. Oh, and a few clothes, a plush and maybe a pacifier. I think that's what we should look for at first. The next three months, we can buy supplies time to time to finish everything, I answer with the same sweet tone he used as I softly rub my belly. I'm 6 months pregnant now, we really need to start buying the stuff we need. We still don’t know the gender of the baby though. We’ll know it only next week. But I don’t need to know the gender to buy a crib or a car seat. I watch my boyfriend nodding his head up and down as he smiles charmingly. Phil leans in and kisses my cheek sweetly before stealing a tender kiss.

- Let's go? He whispers after pulling away from the kiss. I nod and let Phil help me stand up from the chair. I could have done it by myself, but Phil has been extremely caring and careful with me.

On our way to the store, Phil is driving his car. I am sitting on the passenger seat, listening to the radio and having small talk with Jessi's brother. Jessi... She's been so excited ever since she learned about the pregnancy and even more since we decided to keep the baby and to start a real relationship. Jessi has insisted to give us money to help us financially. I didn't want to accept her money as I think it is Phil and I's matter. But she wouldn't stop insisting, so I told her I will accept the money only to give it for the baby later.

Anyway... Arriving at the store, Phil parks his car. He turns off the engine and steps out fast. I take off my seat belt and start to step out of the car as well when I feel a hand helping me. I smile at Phil as he is holding onto my arm. I let him close the car door for me before we walk up to the store. His hand discretely snakes to mine, interlocking our fingers with a rather firm grip. His thumb is softly rubbing the back of my hand as we step inside the store. Okay, first thing first, the crib...

Phil and I walk up to the crib section and look at all of the furniture they are offering. There's really every style. Some look huge, some are small, high cribs, low cribs... Some look very beautiful though. I could really see it in the baby's bedroom. But the price is way much more than what we can afford.

- They're all so adorable. Look! That one's so cute! I exclaim to Phil as I approach a crib where the head of the bed has the form of a cloud. Phil releases my hand as I approached the furniture to show it to him. My boyfriend smiles amused.

- Isn't it a bit high for you, Gorgeous? You'll need a step to get our baby, he says with that amused smile all while being serious. It's true, it's a bit too high for me. I stare at Phil with a smile, surprised by his words. I've never really heard him say "our baby" before. He did, but not so confidently. And I'm still surprised in how much he invests himself into this. I mean, not that I doubt Phil, but we're talking about a baby... What? He asks me, looking a bit confused. I snap out of my thoughts and look down, shyly.

- No, it's just... You said "our baby", I whisper with a happy tone. It just sounds so right to my ears. Once again, Phil smiles as me as he comes closer. He takes my hand back into his while pushing a lock of my hair behind my ear. He makes me blush... I can feel the heat on my cheek... Flustered, I bite my lower lip and clear my throat as I look at the cribs surrounding us. So, can we not take a white bed. It's too... I suddenly tell him, my eyes daring to meet his gorgeous ones.

- Yeah, I agree, he tells me, nodding positively as he seems to know what I meant. The two of us continue looking around for the perfect crib when Phil gently pulls me with him. Look at this one. It's not white, there's the bed for the baby, a space to change him or her, some drawers to put the stuff. And it's not too expensive, he tells me as he checks the crib he just saw. I approach it and check it as well. It's not too high either which is good. It looks rather stable.

- Yeah, and that way we won't have to buy an extra furniture which we probably won't be able to, I state while looking alternately at the crib and Phil with a happy smile. I'm actually impressed by how Phil is investing himself in this. I mean... I didn't think buying stuff for the baby would have been something he likes... I take the reference to compare it with other beds later. The two of us keep looking a little more at the cribs but we constantly go back to the one we found earlier. It's fits in our budget and it's the best one we've seen. I guess we found our bed so... $-400 which leaves us $900, I tell Phil, scratching the word "crib" out of my list. I smile and look up at my boyfriend.

- Okay, so far so good, he responds with a kind smile, looking just as happy as I am.

- We should look for the baby car seat, what do you think? I suggest him, replacing my smile by a confused frown.

- Yeah, let's go, he agrees before putting his arm around my shoulders. I feel protected and so well with Phil. Honestly, at first, I have to admit I didn't know if being together and keeping the baby was right. I had my doubts... But seeing how protective, careful, and caring Phil is, I couldn't help but to change my mind about him. He changed... He really did. In a good way.

There weren't many car seats in the store. Not as much as the cribs at least. But we still managed to find one that seemed safe and strong. Alright, so $-140, it means we have $760 left. We're doing pretty well to say we don't ask anyone for help and the both of us are new to this. I'm pretty sure we'll actually still have money left for next time we'll want to purchase something for the baby.

- Okay, we have the crib and the car seat. I think we got the most important for now, I inform Phil as I let a small sigh out, relieved to have at least those stuff. Those were really the first things I wanted. I don't want to look for it later because, knowing myself, I already know I'll feel in a rush, and I wasn't going to welcome my baby into a bad environment. We need to be fully prepared.

- What do you want to do now, Gorgeous? He asks me gently as I see him giving a look at the list in my hands. Do you want us to go back home and get some food on our way? Or you'd like to look for something else while we're still here? He questions with the same gentle tone.

- Well, I would like to go get a few stuff for the baby. Just to have at least one or two pyjamas first and maybe a pacifier. And then one of us, or together, we could come back to get more when we'll have our pay next month, I suggest to my boyfriend as I fold the paper and put it in my bag. I won't need it anymore for today.

- Sounds good, he says before grabbing my hand and interlocking our fingers together, one more time. The man takes a step forward and places a kiss on my forehead before turning around and pulling me softly along with him. Clothe section. Awnhhh, those pajamas are so adorable!! I look at the pajamas which seems to be mainly for girls in this section. But I think it is right. I don't know why but I'm pretty sure we're having a girl. I can feel it. Girl section?

- Yep, I say as I unfold a pajama to look at it better.

- What if its a boy? He asks me with a smirk. You can't make him wear a pink pajama, I smile to his reply and give an amused look at Phil.

- It's a girl. Trust me. Woman/mommy instinct, I tell him playfully, yet, with a point of seriousness. Phil laughs amused before putting both his hands up in surrender. I smile and continue looking at the baby clothes. I can feel Phil's eyes staring at each of my moves. I glance time to time at the boy, unable to stop myself from smiling. This really makes me happy!

- Phil? I suddenly hear a woman calling for him. Oh... I keep my head down and just mind my business while he turned around to look at who was calling for him.

- Andy? He calls the girl back. He sounds surprised to see her here...

- What are you doing in a baby store? She asks him, sounding confused. I discretely look up and see her frowning a bit confused before a smirk appears on her face. She looks so fake... Lost my number? Want us to have a little time together like before? She asks as she places her hand on his chest. Wow, back off!!

- No, I didn't lost your number. I deleted it, he answers so calmly as he rejected her hand from his chest. Suddenly, the girl stars giggling and insists, putting her hand back on his chest. She's going to eat one of those pajamas by her bum hole if she doesn't leave him... Hormones, not good.

- Very funny! She says through her idiotic giggling. Seriously, what are you doing here? She asks him a second time as she seems to get even closer to Phil. He is not going to step back?

- I'm going to be a father, Andy, he responds seriously to the girl as he rejects her hand harshly and make her step back from him. How can he keep his cool like this?! Despite feeling upset at the moment, I can’t help but to smile a bit when I heard him saying “father”. And I completely stopped looking at the stuff I wanted to look at for the baby...

- What tells you it was an accident? He suddenly answers. Oh... Maybe I am in a healthy relationship and my partner and I wanted to create our own family, he says to the girl, speaking as if this was the most common thing he would have said. But everyone knows Phil isn't like that... He would have never said those words before... Not even while being drunk.

- Right, she replies, clearly not believing him. Phil, seriously? I'm not buying this bullshit. You're not the kind of man who wants to be in a healthy relationship and who wants to be the perfect father. You like running after women and have them in your bed every night, she states seriously, reminding the past he used to have. Have them in his bed... It's been long since I heard someone say that..

- I've changed... He begins to say.

- Yeah, no, people don't change this much... She interrupts him, clearly not buying his words and not wanting to believe them for a second. I watch the girl shaking her head left to right before she chews her lower lip. Oh come on! I grab the first pajama I was looking at and go stand next to my boyfriend.

- Believe what you want, he tells her, clearly not giving a damn about what she says or thinks.

- Excuse me? She questions, looking at him like she's doubting his words. Though, at the sight of his eyes, she slowly seems to realize that he was actually not joking. And who's the woman you accidentally got pregnant? She continues to ask him. Accidentally... I know that me being pregnant with Phil's baby was an accident, but hearing someone saying it like this... It feels different. It hurts. It hurts because that's nothing that Phil or I planned and I know things could have gone differently in many ways...

- Okay, I found everything we needed so far, I say, not sounding very pleased.

- Okay, let's go, he tells me as he grabs my hand. The moment I came up to him, Phil just completely ignored the girl and smiled at me. Andy looks down at our hands before she frowns upset.

- MC? I hear Andy calling me. I stop and look at her.

- Yes? I answer, arcing one eyebrow in confusion.

- MC LN is the girl you knocked up? She asks Phil with an upset tone, actually completely ignoring me. Great... What a mature reaction...

- Hello, I'm right in front of you, I say with sarcasm. Andy looks at me with such an unpleased look. And maybe a disgust one...

- I don't care, she spats at my face before looking at Phil with disgust. And I'm sorry for you. You're ruining your life twice more than I thought, she tells him which made me frown with sadness. I can't help but to feel a pinch on my heart. Am I ruining his life? Is that really what people think when they see us together?

- Okay, enough! We came here to do our business, if you're not happy, it doesn't matter. It is what it is... Tells, Phil, starting to raise his voice a bit as he speaks with a a harsh tone. Honestly, I've rarely seen Phil angry before. I did see him that way once or twice at the Aurora when people were provokating him or when someone would not respect the rules in his bar. I even saw him fight with a client that was too close to me once... But that's it. I grab his arm and try to make him calm down.

- Phil... I call him softly as I notice a few pairs of eyes looking at the scene.

- I told you, I've changed. We're having a baby. So I'm not going to let you disrespect MC and my child just because it doesn't please you or because I didn't choose you. Now, we'd like to pay for these, should we address to you or should we find another person? He tells her with the same harsh tone as before while giving her the darkest glare ever. Honestly, if I was her, I would feel so intimidated... The darkness in his eyes looks so dangerous. Andy stares at him with surprise because of the way he spoke to her. However, the surprise didn’t stay long on her face.

- You're a loser, Phil, she tells him before taking the pajama from my hand and going to the checkout.

- Yes, glad to know, he replies as he takes the money out to pay the pajama. She scans the code and gives us the price. Phil gives him the money and asks her to make an order for the crib we saw and the car seat so we can come pick them up later in the week. Reluctantly, Andy takes note of the order we made and gave us a receipt with the number of the order. Phil takes it before grabbing my hand and pulling me gently along with him to leave the store.

That was... Intense. Weird. Upsetting. Awkward. Ugh! I know I'm going to have to face few women that Phil got in his bed, but it always feels like a challenge whenever the moment comes. When I stepped out from the store, it’s like I could breath again. I felt like I was keeping my breathing for so long... 

- You didn't have to... I say to my boyfriend as we reach his car.

- Yes, I did, he responds, sounding upset.

- Phil... I call him calmly. The man faces me as he opens the car door for me. But I don't go in. I just stare at him instead, showing him that I want to talk. Phil lets a small sigh out before taking my hand in his to squeeze it.

- MC, you and I started an adventure together. We agreed, the both of us, to keep this baby. I'm happy with you and I love you, just like I love this baby already. I'm doing everything to change and to prove you that I am going to be here for you both all the time. Protecting you and defending you is part of this change, he says with such a protective and serious tone mixed with love in his voice. I can't stop staring at him. I know he changed. I know he wants to do well because of how his father was with him. He doesn't want to make the same mistakes. But I know he won't. He keeps proving it to me. Today, one more time.

- Thank you, I whisper sincerely as I crack a smile at him. My boyfriend seems to relax as he smiles back at me. Delicately, Phil places two fingers under my chin and brings his face closer to mine as he gently lifts my head. His lips connect with mine, tenderly kissing me. We pull away, still having that smile on our face.

- Let's go home, Gorgeous, he says as he holds the door for me. I get in before he carefully closes the door. Phil gets on the driver's seat and drives us home.

Back home, the only thing I wanted to do was to relax. I just wanted to lay down and think about nothing. Try at least... On our way home, the sky has started to become dark. The sun left, replaced by dark clouds and the rain falling hard. I guess we're having a storm tonight...

I enter the bathroom and start running some water in the bathtub. It’s been a while since I took a warm bath. I usually take a shower to not use too much water. But a bath is sometimes what I need to relax completely.

Sitting in the bathtub, I let the water get higher slowly as the foam is surrounding me. I love the smell that comes from the foam. It always reminds me my childhood somehow. I play with the bubbles, popping them one by one or making some shapes with it. I somehow find it relaxing. And I guess I never stopped doing that ever since I was a child... But what really relaxes me is certainly the pair of hands massaging me.

Right behind me, Phil is sitting in the bathtub, giving me a massage on my back and shoulders. I can feel his lips kissing the back of my neck time to time, making me giggle. His hands give one last squeeze on my shoulders before they slide down my back and come to cover my belly.

- Lay back, he whispers in my ear as he gently pulls me with him. I let him lay me down until my back rests on his chest. I can feel his thumbs softly rubbing my belly. Sometimes, Phil draws some shapes or words on it, tickling me.

- I love you, Phil, I whisper lovingly at him as I cover his right hand with some foam.

- I love you, too, MC. I love you so much, he whispers with the same loving tone before planting a kiss on the back of my head and resting his cheek against it.

For a good half an hour, we stay in the bathtub together, enjoying this moment together. I have to admit, even though it was really relaxing to be in the warm water and to have that back massage, I couldn’t stop thinking about what that Andy girl said about Phil’s life and how I ruin it. I know he has proven to me so many times that he is working hard to change. He said it. He proved it to me. But still... I’m... I guess I’m scared to lose what I've been living those past few months with Phil. He makes me feel safe, loved, and protected. I’m scared to lose that one day...

I am in the living room, I'm scrolling on my phone to change my mind when I suddenly felt the tears coming up. Hormones... I hate it. Why does it always happen when I over think or when the situation involves to much emotions...? I log off my phone and get up from the sofa to go find Phil. I need to ask him... Again. I need to be sure.

I enter the kitchen, finding Phil smoking by the window. Ever since he learned about the pregnancy, Phil has always been careful to always smoke in a room where I am not standing. He is always either by the window or outside, but he insisted on not smoking in the house and especially not while I am in the same room at him. Another thing that proves me he changed...

- So, pretend that I don't have tears rolling down right now because those are actually hormones but, do you really not miss the life you had before? I ask him with a shaky voice as I look at him and the wall alternately. Phil turned around to look at me when he heard the sound of my voice. He looks a bit stunt, seeming surprised of my sudden question and the tears. I can’t maintain the look with his eyes. I can’t stare at him. Phil smashes his cigarette and closes the window. I'm just asking because that girl at the store wasn't all wrong and I know you did a lot to change and I'm really happy and proud of you for changing this much but I think she might have a point and I can't stop thinking about it and worrying that you're not happy and maybe I'm actually keeping you from living the life you always wanted and then I keep saying to myself that it is not be true but what if you... I tell him absolutely every single thought that comes up to my mind in one single breath. I'm just sharing my fear of losing him... and I think Phil saw it. My boyfriend comes up to me and takes my hands in his, stopping me from talking.

- It's alright, breathe, Gorgeous. I don't remember when was the last time you breathe in between all of those words, he says with a chuckle as he stares at me. I nod and look away as I feel new tears streaming down my face. Phil releases one of my hands and gently wipes my tears away. The life I had before is very different from the one I have now, but it doesn't mean I don't like it. Before, I enjoyed my life as a... How did you call me? A womanizer? Yeah, he tells me gently, slightly mocking me with the words I used to use against him. I hear him chuckle which makes me crack a faint smile. but the tears are stronger. Phil continues to wipe my tears off every time one falls down. I was this womanizer loving to flirt with women to then have them in my bed. I wanted nothing less or more from them. Today, I am someone else thanks to you. I have the chance to have a family, to share my child with you, and to just live a life with you. Something I secretly always wanted to be honest. You're giving me more than anyone has ever gave me and I love you more every day for that, he admits with a serious tone before forcing me to look up into his eyes. More tears spill down my face, but they rapidly disappear as Phil wipes them away. He always wanted to be with me in the first place...? I didn't know that... Why never saying it before? So no, I don't regret my old life and no, I don't want to go back to it. I want to stay with you two. Forever. So don't worry, okay? He tells me sincerely, caressing my cheek with his thumb. He does...? I don’t reply to his words. I don't know what to say. Well, I have hundreds of words running in my mind but it's like I don't know how to formulate what I want to tell him. Instead of speaking, I hug Phil, snaking my arms around his back. Phil hugs me back instantly, running his hand up and down my back. You know what? I think we should get some fries and nuggets tonight, he tells me with a suggestive tone. I smile through my last tears as I remember it is the first "meal" we shared together.

- And ice cream with vanilla flavor. Or mango. Or lemon. Or maybe vanilla and caramel, I say, adding some food to the list. Phil chuckles before he pulls away from me.

- I'll try to remember all of them, Gorgeous, he says with an amused smile. He wipes the last tears off my cheks one more time before I get on my tiptoes to kiss his cheek. Well... That's what I thought I was going to do. Phil turns his head and captures my lips with his, tenderly and passionately kissing them. Our lips move in synch as we share our love for each other. He's really the one for me... I feel it.

- You'll be a good father, Phil, I tell him with a sincere tone after pulling away from the kiss.

- You think? He asks me, sounding unsure about himself. I nod positively. I think you'll be an amazing mom, Gorgeous. He or she will love you so much, he says as he looks down at my belly. Phil places carefully his hand over my stomach, smiling happily. I smile as well as I cover his hand with mine. I hope he’s right... I’m scared to not be a good enough mother for my baby. I guess we’ll discover if we were meant to be parents once this baby will be here. We’ll do everything we can to make our baby happy and for it to grow in a heathly environment. We love it already too much. What will it be once it’ll be born? I can't wait to meet you baby.

[straykidsworldwild]

* Duskwood Episode 10 SPOILERS *

I finished playing episode 10... 😭 The ending was definitely not what I expected and I feel like there was some subjects that were forgotten... (Or maybe I forgot they mentioned it🤔)

Like :

- How did MWAF (not saying the name to not spoil too much for those who haven't finished the game 😉) got my phone number?

- Why picking up a "random stranger" to solve the mystery?

- Who was Hannah Donfort to us? Did we know her in the end?

- What happened to Phil? Was he released or not? (I think he was XD but it would have been nice to see or hear from him in this episode at least once.)

- Did Jake got out of the mine? How? And where did he go after that? (I think he got out XD Jake can't be captured by the FBI or his persuers or even die so easily. I refused to believe that XD And he probably went back to his hiding spot, "waiting" for us...🤔)

----------------------------------------------------------

I have to admit I am a bit disappointed with the last chapter because, even though it's an open ending, I thought it would end differently. I thought it would have been darker...

It's just my opinion, but I personally didn't like much who they've chosen to be the MWAF. I feel like it kind of broke the vibes we've been having since the beginning of the adventure.

It was good but not so good to me... I would have loved for an epilogue with us having an interrogation with Alan Bloomgate and then meeting Jake somewhere outside of town. Still in Duskwood, but outside of town. Even if we don't see his face. Like, it could have ended on Jake standing next to the river Jessy showed us with her phone when she wanted us to "visit" Duskwood. We could just see his back and then we could have called him. Jake would have slowly turned around, letting us only see his baby blue eyes (lol, yes, I like to think Jake has blue eyes, black hair, and is quite tall 🙈🤭) as he could be wearing a black mask with the nym-os eye on it in the corner.

We also could have seen just MC or Jake/MC meeting with all of the others, having a few drinks (even though it's probably, maybe even certainly not Jake's type 🤣) before Jake takes MC with him away from Duskwood.

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil x MC pregnant (part 2/4)

Plot : MC has the important discussion with Phil.

(I don't own any of those pics or the characters. I just own the collage.)

This morning promises to be pretty interesting and nerve-wracking... But I have to do it. I have to face him. I have to face the situation...

~ An hour later ~

- Hey! I greet Phil with the best smile I can pull up despite the tiredness and the fear I've been feeling. I didn't sleep much last night as I kept rummaging. No matter how hard I tried to get an idea of how this meeting will go and what I'll say to him, more always came to my mind, adding thoughts over thoughts. I'm so nervous about today's conversation with Mr. Aurora aka Phil. Usually, when we're together in a place with the other, we don't talk much. Our eyes talked more than words. Mine at least... I just keep wondering what he thinks about this... What is he going to tell me? Will he be open to the conversation? Or is he making me come to his bar to tell me he doesn't want it? Are we going to find a solution together? Will I have to do everything by myself? I don't know... All I know is that now I am outside the Aurora, standing before Phil, feeling more than nervous.

- Hey, please, he says as he steps to the side to let me come in. I smile and walk inside the Aurora. Phil closes and locks the door behind me before stepping back towards the bar. I've never been in here while nobody was in. Usually it's crowded of people so I don't pay much attention to the decoration. It's really pretty! Thank you for coming, Gorgeous. Do you want a glass of water or a juice? Coffee maybe? He thanks before offering me something to drink without alcohol. At least, he tries... It's a good sign, right?

- Coffee isn't good for pregnant women but thanks for asking. If you have a juice, I'll take that, I gently answer to the man. I can't stare into his eyes. I don't avoid them but whenever he looks at me, it just makes me feel this crazy sparks... His eyes are so mysterious and so intimidating.

- Of course. Here, he says as he gives me an apricot juice. My favorite! How does he know? I smile and thank him. So... Are you okay? He questions, sounding unsure of what he should be asking me first. Or maybe he just doesn't know how to start a conversation? I know I don't...

- So far, just fear and confusion, I reply sincerely as I grab the glass full of juice. Ugh, what that's smell? Phil nods as I see him playing nervously with the ring around his finger. He isn't smoking... I'm surprised!

- MC, I would like to know what decision you took about the baby. I'll respect whatever decision you took but I would like to talk about it with you first. I thought about it all night, thinking about all of the possibilities... But I want to know what you think first, he tells me seriously, yet, seeming not confident in himself. I've never seen this side of Phil before... He's usually so confident in himself. As I listen to his talk, I lift the glass up to my lips. Ugh! The smell... I don't feel so good... I was about to drink the juice but I rapidly put it down before covering my nose and my mouth. I can feel my heart beating so fast down my chest as my hands starts to shake. Not now... You're okay? He asks me with a confused and concerned tone.

- Yeah, I'm... I started to say when I feel my mouth getting watery. Ugh no... I get up rapidly, making the chair fall down as I rush to the bathroom. Thank God I know this place by heart. I just had time to open the toilet before emptying my stomach. Great... Just the right time... Suddenly, soft hands pull my hair back. Then, as my hair are being held back, I feel Phil rubbing my back softly, giving me comfort. So embarrassing... Imagine throwing up in front of your crush... I flush the toilet but keep my head above it. I'm sorry, I apologize to the man as I take deep breathe in and out.

- Hey, I'm pretty sure I'm the cause of this sickness, so don't worry, Gorgeous, He tells me with a comforting tone as his hand on my back never stops rubbing it. Ugh... No! I throw up one more time, letting my body rejecting all fluids, before flushing the toilet a second time. I hate this so much! Avoiding Phil's sight, I get up not too quickly and go to the sink to wash my mouth. Disgusting! I pass some water over my face when I notice my hands shaking. I said it, I hate it. Hey... Tells, Phil, as he sees how shaky my hands are.

- I hate throwing up that's... Why. It's kind of a phobia, I confess to Phil, avoiding his eyes. The man nods understandingly before he turns around and leaves the restroom. Oh... I sigh and look down before going back to the toilet. I think I should stay close to it... That's be wiser... I sit on the floor, next to the toilet, and close my eyes. I feel disgusting and ashamed... The one person I didn't want to see me throwing up, did... I hide my face in my hands, trying to forget this nauseous feeling. That's what morning sickness is...

- Here, I suddenly hear Phil's voice. What...? I didn't even hear him coming back in... I look up and see Phil holding a glass of water for me. Oh...

- Thanks, I thank him with a shy smile. Phil nods and sits down across from me, joining my sides. I take a sip of the water before closing my eyes for a few seconds.

- So... Have you decided? He asks me, sounding unsure whether he should ask his question now or not. I don't look at him and I don't reply immediately. What should I say? I don't even know myself if I have decided or not... I stay quiet for a moment, giving him my answer that way. Phil stays silent as well as I see him weakly nodding his head up and down.

- I was so scared and nervous... When I took the pregnancy test and saw it was positive, I didn't know what to think or do... I just... Sank on the floor and cried out of fear, I admit to my best friend's brother, half whispering, half speaking up. Daring to look up, my eyes meet Phil's as he was staring at me. Despite the way he makes me feel, there's something in him that makes me feel comfortable talking to him about myself. I... I'm... Scared. I’m scared to make a decision... Because I don't want you to make me the promise to make me keep this baby when, in the end, you'll just walk away. I don't know if I'm ready for this. I don't know if I'll be a good mother... I continue to confess my feelings about this situation as I placed my hand over my stomach. While speaking I could feel my vision beginning to get slightly blurry. I just... I'm tired of feeling so lost and unsure about everything. Ugh, again... I quickly get back on my knees and hold my head above the toilet, feeling like I'm about to throw up again. Phil gets up without wasting time and comes holding my hair again. He hand rests on my back.

- MC, I'm not going anywhere, he tells me softy with his deep voice as I feel him rubbing gently my back. Really? Is he being sincere or are they just words he knows I want to hear so bad? I take a few deep breathes before sitting back down on the floor. I didn't get sick again at least... For now...

- Yeah, I'll need proofs. Because this baby will need a good mother and a father to be there for him... Or her. I can and I will try to be the best mother I can be if I keep it, but I can't give him his father if he doesn't want to be part of our life, I respond seriously to Phil as our eyes never disconnect from one another. Staring at him this way, I still wonder how everything happened for us to be in this situation. I mean... No. I know how it happened but... I was just a girl he never noticed, he was the popular barman and the womanizer of Duskwood, and here we are now.

- I'll give you some proofs, MC. I promise you, he replies sincerely and immediately after I finished talking. He didn't hesitate one second... I stare into his beautiful eyes, seeing the seriousness and sincerity in them. He wants it... He wants me to keep the baby... I can tell just by the sight of his eyes. I didn't think he would want it to be honest... I don't know what it is to be a father since mine was an ass and never here. But I do know I'll never be like him. I'll never abandon you or our child. And I'm not and I won't run away, Gorgeous, he says with the same tone as before, sounding as if he is trying to convince me. I sigh quietly as I let my head rest on the wall behind me.

- I thought about keeping the baby, you know? I tell him as I look down at my belly. I would love to be a mother, even though I don't know how to be one, I look back up at Phil. The man moves from his spot and sits closer to be next to me, barely letting space between us. His scent instantly consumes me. And there’s going to be so many changes and it’s a huge responsibility. I need to find a second job... I say, already feeling the tiredness coming from this potential second job I'm seeking for. It's already hard without a baby. What will it be with one? And while carrying one?

- Why? He questions gently to me, interrupting me.

- I don't have enough money. My apartment is way too small so I would need to find a new home. I'll also need to pay the bills and the groceries, the supplies for the baby, the gas for my car,... I take a deep breath in as I abruptly interrupt myself into the list of everything I need to pay. And yet, there isn't everything yet... It's going to be a lot of money and I clearly don't have it at the moment. Without counting all of the hospital taxes after giving birth. And the potential of unexpected accidents that could come on the way, I finish to summarize, showing him that I have thought about absolutely everything. This is giving me a lot of stress to be honest.

- I can help you, MC, he says with his deep voice as I feel something warm covering my hand. I look down at it to see his hand holding mine firmly. His touch is so comforting. This baby is also my responsibility. I want to be part of both of your life if you want to keep it. I want to be there for you when the moment comes and after it, he admits with seriousness. I look up at him, noticing how close our faces are. He looks so fine. And I'll prove you that, he whispers with such sincerity in his voice. I weakly nod. I'd like to come when you'll go have your first ultrasound, he tells me, sounding more like he is asking my permission for him to come. He does...? I'm a bit surprised. I know he said he wanted it but I didn't think he would want to bother himself with medical appointments.

- it's in a month, I tell him.

- I'll be there, then, he answers with a smile. A beautiful smile I have to say... I can't help but to gaze at his face. I've never been this close to him except when that night happened between us. He is just so... His eyes, his lips... That damn jawline... Everything is beautiful about this man. As the two of us stay quiet, Phil brings his hand towards my hair and push a lock behind my ear. His touch... Even a simple touch is so comforting. Oh...! Time's running.

- I have to go. I need to go get some food for my lunch and then I have to go to work, I tell Phil as I see him nodding quietly back to me. I start to get up but instantly groan. I felt better with my butt on the floor...

- Are you sure you want to go now? He asks me with a light chuckle. That sound... Even in a state like this one, he manages to make me crack a smile.

- Huh... Is it okay if I stay five more minutes? I question him as I sit back on the floor, next to the toilet.

- Of course, Gorgeous. Stay as long as you need, he kindly tells me. I give him a smile, appreciating his words. The man turns around to leave the restroom, but I stop him before he could go somewhere else.

- Phil, can I come see you through the week? Or call you? I demand him, half using a pleading tone. The man faces me with a smile.

- You come here whenever you want, MC. My door is always open for you. And you call me whenever you want. You have my number. I'll be here, he responds sincerely and with seriousness as he gives me one of his famous smirk. I smile once more at him before letting him go do his job. He's supposed to open soon. And I have to go do mine... Ugh, I don't feel well...

~ Four days later ~

I enter my home and lock the door behind me after what felt like the longest day ever. I don't particularly enjoy working there, but today was above every other days. Honestly, it shouldn't be allowed to work with people this cruel... Besides making me feel useless, like the dumbest person in the world, and talking crap in my back... And not so discretely may I add... My day was fine otherwise. Well, with the exception of the morning sickness, but it's just a detail...

It's been four days since I have talked with Phil. I had him twice on the phone, but nothing more. I didn't go back to the Aurora and I didn't see him either. I think we don't really know what to say to each other and we still aren't sure about what is going on in our lives lately. The fear must be an obstacle as well. We're still young after all...

I take off my shoes and go immediately take my shower. I need to relax after this day... Physically and emotionally. Or maybe I should eat something first? Fries... Fries and Chantilly!! Oh...! I didn't have time to go to my kitchen that I hear someone knocking on my door. At this time...? Who could it be? I wasn't waiting for someone. I approach the front door and look through the bull's eyes. A familiar figure is standing outside. Okay, after a crappy day, why not adding some nervousness? I take a deep breath before opening the door.

- Phil? I call him with surprise and confusion. The man is leaning against my door frame, arms crossed over his chest. Some hair are loosely falling in front of his perfect face as the rest of it is attached in a messy bun.

- Hey, I closed the Aurora for tonight and I wanted to know if you'd like to go eat something, he gently tells me, giving me a soft smile as he pulls himself up from the door frame. He tries to hide it, but he obviously looks tired... He must have had a tough day too...

- I'm already pregnant, Phil. There won't be any sexual activity between us, I reply with a playful tone while giggling. I cross my arms over my chest, feeling the fresh air from the hall coming inside my apartment. Phil softly laughs at my comment.

- Damn! He exclaims with an exaggerated and a fake disappointed tone. The two of us laugh together, staring shyly into each other's eyes. I know you finished early today so I thought we could eat together somewhere or... Anywhere you'd like, Gorgeous, he proposes kindly with a more serious tone. He knows my schedule? I'm surprised...! I know Phil is a gentleman with women, but I didn't think he was this kind of gentleman. I thought it was an image he wanted to give himself to make girls melt for him... I misjudged this side of him.

- Sure, I'd love to. But can we get something and eat it here, at my place? I'm tired of my day. And so do you, apparently, I demand him with a point of shyness before stating my words. Phil smiles once more as he quickly looks down. He wanted to go somewhere?

- Anything you want, Gorgeous, he replies with his smirk. The boy definitely knows what he's doing... I smile and look away as I felt my cheeks starting to hit up. What would you to eat? He asks me.

- Okay, huh... It's not very gastronomical but I'm actually craving for fries and nuggets right now. Lots of them. Oh!! And I'd like chocolate too, please, I tell him my "order" as I just already imagine all of this food in front not of me. So good! Phil chuckles and nods while stretching himself.

- Give me 20-30minutes and I'll be back with all of this, he tells me with an amused tone. I nod understandingly before watching Phil step out from the building to go get our food. Okay... I guess I can go take my shower in the mean time!

Almost half an hour passes when Phil comes back with our food. The smell is just incredible! My mouth gets watery just by this scent. We set everything on the living room table and take place on the sofa. I have a small apartment so I don't really have much space. At least, not enough to get a proper dining table with chairs... Wearing a short, I cover my legs with a warm and comfy blanket and let him distribute the food. Fries! Nuggets! It's heaven!! I smile and thank him for the food before we start eating.

- Oh, I love you so much, I say before eating one of the fries. I've waited this for so long!

- You're talking to the fries? Asks me, Phil, smiling amused.

- Yeah, I reply before chuckling. Phil smiles and takes a bite from him hamburger. Weirdly, I don't feel as nervous as before. I'm not used to be around him alone, but I'm not all crazy nervous either. I mean there's still this little point of nervousness, but it's not as intense as before. So, how was work? I question the man, trying to make some conversation. It's not what I'm good at, but I'd rather try. Phil finishes his mouth before giving me an answer.

- Okay, I guess. Regulars were here as always and some clients also came. I broke two glasses and ran out of ice towards the end. And Jessy stopped by a few minutes before I closed, he responds softly with his deep voice, telling me his day. He sounds so calm. It's very relaxing to talk with him actually. How can he always be so calm? Well, this isn't as bad as having the talk we had at his bar days ago...

- How's she doing? I ask him, grabbing a nugget from the box.

- Good. She was annoyed though because Richy lost the last pen they had. She had to go get new ones at the store, he tells me, not looking surprised of the boy. Though, he seems amused. And I have to say, I'm not surprised either by Richy. Nothing surprises us from him anymore...

- Not surprised, I reply as I smile amused.

- How was your day? He then asks me before proceeding eating. I look up at him, our eyes meeting. Mmh...

- Long, I reply while letting a long sigh out. I had one of those girls who not so kindly pointed out that I am not worth much compared to her and that I should work twice harder if I want to have a pay, I tell him, recounting briefly my day in a few words. It's not that I don't want to relive it but... I don't. Phil looks down for a second, looking slightly upset. Or... Maybe he tries to hide that he is upset? Still, I can see it bothers him.

- You're already working twice harder. And you're worth more than any of those girls, Gorgeous, he answers with a sincere and serious tone. I stare at him for a second, appreciating the kind words. It changes from what I heard all day long... Kind, gentle, gentleman, deep voice, good looking, and knows what to say to cheer up people... Perfect guy. Hearing him saying those words makes my heart beating slightly faster.

- You should tell them that, I reply playfully with a faint smile.

- Sure, I'll come pick you up tomorrow morning and I'll go pay a visit to your boss and those girls, he says with a dead serious tone. Yet, I can tell he was joking just by the smile he cracked while looking at me. The two of us laugh together and enjoy the rest of the night. I haven't had a good and relaxing evening like this one for a long time...

~ A month later ~

At the hospital, I am sitting in the waiting room, waiting for a doctor to come get me. I have my first ultrasound today. I'm so nervous. Even having the talk with Phil didn't make me this nervous... Speaking of, I know Phil and I talked about keeping the baby or not. And I know it might be too late to change my mind if I don't want it. But, even today, I have to admit that I'm still unsure of what I'm doing. But I hope it will change today... I don't know how or if it is possible to make my mind with an ultrasound, but I'll see... I've never done this before so it does sound a bit crazy that it'll help me decide.

- Sorry, there was a lot of people on the road, I hear a sudden and familiar voice that gets me out of my thoughts. I look up and see Phil quickly entering the waiting room, doing a messy bun at the same time. Phil was supposed to meet with me 10minutes ago.

- Don't worry. I'm glad you're here, I tell him sincerely as he takes the seat next to me. He nods and smiles at me which makes me smile back. He and I talked a bit this morning. I guess we're both nervous about today.

- Nervous? He asks me as he is catching his breath. He really rushed in here...

- A bit scared to be honest. And you? I admit before asking him how he feels.

- Huh, nervous, he responds, admitting his feelings as well as a small pause. Phil let's a small laugh out before a phone starts ringing. It can only be one of us since we're alone in the waiting room. I'm surprised by that actually. I thought there would have been other pregnant women with their man accompanying them... The phone can't be mine since I muted the sound when I arrived. Phil pulls his phone out and hangs up instantly when he sees the number. There was no I.D. caller...

- You can answer if you have to, I tell him seriously as I look straight in front of me, as if I didn't glance at who was calling him.

- No, I... I don't want to talk to the person, he answers seriously as he puts his phone back in his pocket. He really doesn't seem to want to talk to him...

- Oh you know him, I say with a surprised tone. But I didn't see the I.D. caller...

- Her, he corrects me.

- Oh... I simply say, sounding more disappointed than I thought I would have. Why though? I don't have anything to say... I'm not his girlfriend after all, I'm just the girl who carries his child... He can make his life if he wants. He actually can leave me and the baby whenever he wants... But I have to admit that it makes me worked up when a girl calls him. Especially when knowing the kind of girls he used to get home with...

- I deleted the few numbers I had of girls I slept with, he confesses to me which makes me arc my eyebrows in surprise. He did? Why? When?

- A few? I question, raising one eyebrow.

- All of them, actually, he tells me, correcting himself. I nod my head up and down. I dare to look up at the man and see him staring at me with a smile. Oh... Was I obvious? Don't worry, Gorgeous, you're the only girl in my life for now, he says with a smirk, letting a quiet chuckle out. So beautiful... Yet, I don't know if I should feel upset or not by his words.

- For now... I repeat his own words, looking down.

- Well, if this baby is a girl you won't be the only one anymore, he says. Oh... I didn't see it this way. I smile and bite my lower lip before looking back up at him. He makes me feel crazy... Phil stares at me with a smile which makes me melt even more for him. Maybe I shouldn't feel this way for him... Yes, we're having a baby, but like I said, we're not together. Once the baby will be born, he and I might take part ways... None of us know what will happen.

- Ms. MC L/N? I suddenly hear someone calling my name. Oh! I look at the entrance of the waiting room, finding a woman wearing a white blouse. She's holding some papers.

- Yes, I reply with a polite smile as I stand up from the chair. I walk up to the doctor and shake hands with her. She smiles as me before looking up behind me. Oh! This is... My boyfriend, I tell to the woman as I introduce Phil to the doctor. Though, I took a split second to think of what I could qualify Phil.

- It's nice to meet you, sir, she says with a smile and shakes hands with him. Why does this even makes me upset? Is it because of the look she's giving him? Maybe... But isn't it the look almost all women give him?

- Pleasures all mine, he responds, smiling back at her. Mmh...

- This way, please, she tells us, showing us the way. I step up, following the doctor behind.

- Boyfriend, huh? Whispers quietly, Phil, in my ear. I shush him quietly, giggling at the same time. The man quietly chuckles as we approach a room. The doctor opens the door for us and we enter a small room. This is so nerve-wracking...

- Lay down here, miss. Make yourself comfortable and lift your shirt up a little bit, please. Little warning, it'll be a little bit cold, she says as she shows me a bed for me to lay on and the gel she'll put on my belly. A machine is next to it with some supplies that the doctor needs to make the ultrasound. Wow, okay... This is serious. This is a first. This is so nerve-wracking!! You may take this chair if you'd like, sir, tells, the doctor to Phil as she points at the chair against the wall.

- Thank you, he thanks her politely. Though, he doesn't sit on it. He just stands next to it, as if he doesn't know what to do. Which is probably the case...

I lay down on the bed and, with shaky hands, I lift my shirt up only to reveal my stomach. It's slightly rounded but not enough to guess I'm pregnant yet. A part of me wants to run away because of the stress and another part of me wants to see what it is. I didn't think I would be living this situation so soon... Yet, with Phil's baby.

I get ready as I watch the doctor getting everything ready. Even though it's only a gel and some paper, the machine next to me is pretty impressive. I take a deep breathe in before looking at where Phil is. He has his arms crossed over his chest, still standing next to the chair, a bit lost and clearly nervous as well. That's probably the reason why he doesn't sit. He can't stay still because of the nervousness. Out from a courage I didn't think I had, I hold my hand up towards him. He looks at me and quickly understands what I need. He walks up to me, standing where he won't be bothering the doctor, and takes my hand in his. His hands are so soft and warm. And the squeeze he is giving it... It's so reassuring. I look up at him with nervous and scared eyes and see him nodding at me, as if he is saying "everything will go alright". He's nervous, but confident... I wish I was this confident...

The doctor puts the gel on my stomach, letting me feel the cold liquid. I let a quiet gasp out due to the cold sensation which quickly warms up with the heat of my body. The woman takes the material from the machine and places it on the gel to look for the baby. The sensation of that thing rolling on my belly is strange... Can we even see it now? Isn't it too early? Oh... That sound... Heartbeats. I stare at the screen as I see the little baby I'm carrying. Well, it doesn't look like a baby yet, but it's still mine. It's my baby...

I stare at the screen with amazed eyes, unable to blink. I'm scared this moment will end too quickly if I blink. It's just so... Magical. I am creating life... A little human. The sound of its heart beating is so melodic. I am carrying a baby!

- This is it. It's your baby, I hear the doctor saying with a happy voice. I nod and smile when I feel something warm rolling down my face. I want it... I want this baby. For the first time, I turn my head and look up at Phil. The man is staring at the screen with love in his eyes. They are sparkling with joy. The two loves of my life are with me at the moment... I slightly move my hand from his hold, only to intertwine my fingers with his. Phil instantly holds firmly my hand as I feel his thumb running on the back of my hand.

- We won't be able to know what it is until when? He asks to the doctor, getting curious.

- I'd say not before at least 2 months, she answers as she gets some tissues.

- Can we have a photo of the baby? I ask her, wanting a memory from this perfect moment. And I know a girl who will want to see the first glimpse of her niece or nephew...

- Of course. I let you clean yourself up and I get the picture ready, she tells us with a smile before handing me the tissues. I thank her along with Phil before she leaves the room, letting us two together. Us three, should I say... I clean my stomach and sits up on the bed. The screen is still showing the picture of our baby. I can't hear the sound of its heart anymore though...

- You're okay? Asks me, Phil, as he comes standing in front of me.

- Yes, I whisper before smiling. I want it, I suddenly tell him, feeling overjoyed. Phil stays silent before me. I want this baby. Hearing its little heart beating. Seeing it on the screen, I say as I feel more tears rolling down my face. Phil wipes them away with his thumb, soothing me with his touch. I want it... With you. If that’s what you want of course, I admit and tell him seriously as my eyes meet his. Phil stares at me, a smile spread over his face. He seems so happy.

- I want it too, he whispers while nodding his head positively. He does...! He does! I smile wildly and chuckle at the same time, expressing my happiness. Everything feels so right. For once, this feeling of confusion or being lost is gone. For once, I know what I want... What we want. The weight I was carrying on my shoulders is now gone.

The two of us stare at each other for a moment, not wanting to break his moment. Surprisingly, it doesn't feel awkward. His hands are gently holding my face as his thumbs are wiping my last tears away. He's so delicate. Those eyes... The emotions in those eyes... They're so gorgeous and strong. They're showing so much love, so much will, so much hope. It's not something I am used to see in Phil's eyes. Usually, he gives his best womanizer's stare. The one every girl falls for... But not right now. I get to see this look that no one had certainly the chance to see.

Suddenly, the boy comes even closer to me. He slowly starts to lean in, taking a few seconds to see if that's what I want. And I do... Just remembering his lips on mine makes my heart beating three times stronger. I let him approach his face more and more before feeling warmth over my lips. He delicately kisses them as I close my eyes to enjoy it even more. I answer to the soft kiss as one of my hands comes holding his wrists and the other one holds his waist. Phil puts more pressure into the kiss, only to show me how much he loves and enjoy the moment. I love him... I love him so much. Just like this baby...

Phil pulls away after a moment, but doesn't step back before pecking my lips twice and then my forehead.

- We have to show the picture to Jessy, I tell him with a smile as he helps me getting down from the bed.

- I let you do that. I have to go back to the bar. Is that okay? He tells me gently, making sure I am alright with him leaving me to do his work.

- Of course. Though, do you think you can drop me off at Richy's Garage first? I answer and ask him as I tuck my shirt back in my trousers like it was before.

- Of course, Gorgeous, he says with a smile as he opens the door for me. I thank him and the two of us walk back to the waiting room. In the hall, walking back to the waiting room, Phil grabbed my pinky finger with his. He really surprises me showing so much delicate attention. It might just be small gesture, but it's sometimes enough to make someone's heart flutter.

The waiting room is a little more filled than earlier, but it's not that bad. I quietly greet the two couples in it and sit on a chair, Phil next to me. I'm slowly starting to realize that I might feel nervous about this whole thing for nothing. Phil really seems to dedicate his whole self into this since he learned about the news and since we had a talk. I'm staying on my guards, but I think I worry for nothing...

- Huh... Can you... Would you mind sleeping at home tonight? I shyly demand him in a whisper, actually surprising myself for asked ng this question.

- I'll be there, he whispers back as he takes full hold of my hand with his. That man...

The doctor comes back to us and gives us the picture of the ultrasound. The two of us thank her before we leaved the hospital.

A few minutes later, Phil dropped me off at Richy's garage like I asked him before he went to his bar to work. Jessy and Richy were quite confused to see me getting out from Phil's car. I didn't have time to sit in their office or to even say "Hi" that I was asked thousands of questions about Phil, and why I was with him. I showed them the picture of the ultrasound which shut them up for a moment. They stared in awe in front of the picture before Jessy took it to have a better sight of it. We don't see much, but I guess it's enough for her. I giggle to the sight of their faces and let them digest the news. Especially, Richy... Jessy didn't say anything about me being pregnant, less that I had a hot night with Phil... Jessy hands me back the picture with tears of joy in her eyes. She jumps on Richy, repeating over and over that she's going to be an aunt. The poor guy covers his ears as she was screaming, and I just laugh out loud, enjoying this sight.

A few hours later, after talking a lot with them both, it was time to close Richey's business for the day and to go here me. Jessy dropped me at my apartment as she wanted to talk a bit more about the baby and the situation. I guess she's really curious. She pulls her car in front of a building and I thank her from bringing me home and for the talk and support she's giving us.

Entering my apartment, I immediately go get a shower to relax a bit and recall about today's moments. It was a good day. A really good day. And it will end well too. Phil should be here in two hours...

The night has fallen now. It's pitch dark outside. I am watching TV with sleepy eyes, fighting against the tiredness to wait for Phil to arrive. Oh... Speaking of the Devil. I hear someone knocking on the front door. Finally! I get up and go open the door to discover the familiar face of Phil Hawkins. He looks tired, but happy.

- Hello, stranger, he says with a smile.

- Hi! I greet him as he steps in. He snakes his arms around my waist and I envelop him with my arms around the back of his neck. Phil closes the door behind him all while kissing me at the same time. I answer to his kiss, my lips melting against his. I smile through the kiss as I just feel so, so happy.

After Phil had something to eat, and after the two of us got ready for bed, we went to my bedroom. It's a bit weird because last time the two of us were in the same bed, we were drunk and the moment was definitely hotter. It's different today.

We lay on my bed, under the covers, and watch a movie on my computer. Phil is lying behind him, one arm hanging around my waist. His hand is falling over my stomach, letting his fingers softly rubbing where the baby is. I smile and close my eyes as I feel my tiredness winning over me. I feel safe and secured with him. And I feel loved...

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil x MC pregnant (part 1/4)

Plot : MC makes a discovery that will change her whole life.

(I don’t own the pictures or the characters, all of the credits go to the owners. I just made the collage.)

Honestly, when that night happened, I didn't think it would be the one that would change my whole life. That it would open doors that I never thought were just waiting to be opened. Well, to be fair, I didn't think it was actually ever going to happen. He and I were just friends for years now. And I know his past with women... I know how he all charmed them and they've charmed him. I know the choices he made by accepting to spend "time" with them. But it's not like I could prevent him or say something to him to stop. It's his life and I wasn't part of it. And I can't tell that it never bothered me because it would always make me boil from inside, thinking and wishing it could be me. But only me... So when it happened, I couldn't tell if it was a mistake or not. It felt right, but it felt wrong at the same time. Thousands of questions were burning my mind. Did he do it because of the alcohol? Did he do it because he really wanted it? Was I just a distraction? Was I just another of his numerous conquet? I didn't know. All I knew, it's that he was my crush since years but we were nothing to each other... Yet.

~ Flashback ~

I slowly wake up, feeling a weight on my side. One of my legs is above the bed sheet as the other one is curling against a soft and warm skin. Some of the sun light is beaming inside my room, making it hard for me to open my eyes at the moment. And my head pounding after last night doesn't help. Last night...

I slowly and delicately turn on myself to lay on my back when I notice that the weight is an arm... Belonging to a very familiar man. Phil Hawkins... The man who poisoned my heart with love. Maybe it's one sided but... He still managed to take possession of it.

I turn my head on the right to look at his sleepy face. His long hair are falling smoothly in his neck, his scent is just as toxic as last night, and... He's just so close to me... I slowly bring my hand to his face, wanting to touch it. But I'm scared to wake him up. Stupidly, a part of me doesn't want him to go. And another one wishes for him to be gone from my apartment. Mixed feelings... It's complicated. I retrieve my hand and just stare at the man for a moment.

I remember everything... I remember how our lips moved in synch together, how we melt against each other, how the tension quickly became intense, how our breathings were wiggled together as they became shorter, faster, and heavier, and how our moans filled the room. I remember when his hands were traveling on my body and his lips kept kissing my neck and my collar bone before he placed a passionate kiss on my lips. I remember his fingers interlocking with mines, holding my hand so tightly as the passion took over us. I also remember how careful he was during the moment. It's just details, but it was enough to make this moment so special to me. And yet, just to think this was just a random night for him... It hurts. It hurts to love him...

~ End of the flashback ~

~ A month later ~

Today is my day off so I decided to go give a visit to Jessy at Richy's garage. Jessy is my best friend and of course, Phil's baby sister. I've never told Jessy how I feel about her brother. I know that even though they don't get so well along, they still love each other. They're family. And I don't know how Jessy would react if she learns that I not only love Phil but I slept with him... I'm pretty sure he never said a word to her because Jessy never talked about it once to me.

- My stomach hurts, she suddenly tells me as she is sitting behind her desk, filling some papers. I look up at her as I was scrolling on Instagram.

- Cramps? I ask her, knowing it could only be one thing.

- Yup. I hate this time of the month, she says as she grimaces with an annoyed look. I softly laugh to her answer and facial expression. I have to admit that I usually end up doing all of the possible position to make the pain go away. Last time it happened was... Well... It was... It should have been 2 weeks ago... I haven't had mine yet... I grab my phone and look at the digital calendar. I'm two weeks late... Anyway, it should pass. The cramps aren't so strong right now, she tells me with a positive and cheerful tone. And Richy won't understand even if I try explaining to him, she says playfully. I smile but frown confused and concerned. Am I late, late? Could it be because of the night with Phil? Am I...? No, I would know it, I would feel it... No? I mean... It's been a month since I slept with Phil... You're okay? You're pale suddenly. Do you want some water? She tells me with a concerned tone, standing up from her chair. Oh...!

- No, I'm... I'm just tired. I haven't been sleeping much lately, I admit to her, giving her a forced smile all while trying to sound as natural as possible.

- True. Take the night off too, tonight. Tomorrow is the weekend so relax during those three days of yours, she tells me with her kind smile as I see her play with the pen in her hand. I smile back and nod positively.

- You're right, I say before a small silence takes place in the room. I'm getting so nervous right now... I have to check if I'm late for this reason or not. I need to know... Well, I should go. I'll call you tonight? I tell and ask her as I get up from the chair. Jessy faces me.

- Yes, I still have to tell you about my date with Dan, she tells me while winking playfully, yet, looking really happy about that date.

- I can't wait to hear what this idiot prepared for you, I say sincerely, being happy for her. Jessy really deserves someone who'll love her a lot. Dan might look like he is a brute, but he can be very sweet when he wants.

- You'll be surprised but it actually wasn't that bad, she says, sounding herself surprised by the man. The two of us laugh together before saying our goodbyes.

Before getting to my car, I say my goodbyes to Richy as well. The man waves and screams from where he is, showing me his greasy hands. Yeah, that car was definitely not a gift...

I get inside mine and do a reverse before starting to drive away. How did I not notice that I didn’t have my periods? I’ve never been that late before... I mean, I had a few days late but not two weeks... I stare at the road, both my hands on the wheel while nervously bitting on my lower lip. I’m probably just thinking too much... I mean, I might have them soon... Right? I just... I'm just late, it's nothing to be alarmed about. But I guess we're never too sure... Ugh, damn it!

Arriving in the town center, I park my car and go straight to the pharmacy, head down. It might be idiot of me, but Duskwood is a very small town. People know everyone... Words are spread way faster than what we'd like... I feel like every pair of eyes are staring at me like I am some sort of alien. But it's not true... I know it's not. They barely notice me. Still, I feel this way. I don't want anyone to know that I'm here. Especially for what I'm going to get... Even if I'm an adult and that it is totally normal for women to get a pregnancy test, I still worry of what people might think or say. Ugh, why am I worrying so much about this when I don’t even know if I should be worried?

I step inside the pharmacy and give a quick look around to make sure there isn’t anyone that I know and could... Well, spread the word I guess. I'm getting paranoid... The place is completely empty. There’s only a woman standing behind the counter, next to the register. I approach her as she greets me with a polite smile. I smile back and demand her for a pregnancy test. The woman looks at me with a small confused frown before her eyes look at me up and down. Or maybe she was surprised...? Why though? Am I not allowed to ask for one? I repeat my demand which makes her go get what I need. Thanks, like that’s what I needed to happen right now... To feel judged...

The pharmacist comes back with the small rectangular box and puts it in a paper bag. I pay for the pregnancy test, feeling her intense glare on me. It's not awkward at all... I force a smile, grab that paper bag, and quickly step out of the are, head down again. OH!

- Hey, MC! I hear the familiar voice of Cleo. Oh no... I stare at her with wide eyes, surprised to have pumped into her. What kind of luck is this? You're okay? She asks me as she frowns with concern.

- Yeah, why? I answer with a small confused tone, trying to sound as normal as possible.

- You just got out of the pharmacy, she says, pointing out at the paper bag I am holding. Oh no...

- Oh... Oh, right, it's... I have my girl things and you know I usually take the pads here, I quickly reply, telling her a lie as I smile lightly. Well, it's not a complete lie but... Well...

- Ugh, I had mine last week, so glad it's done, she says with an annoyed and relieved tone. I smile and nod even though I don't have the heart to do it. At least you had them... I can't say the same...

- I have to go, Cleo. I should be calling my mom in 20minutes, I tell her, inventing a new lie to escape from my friend. As terrible as it sounds...

- Of course. Tell her "Hi" for me, she tells me with a smile.

- I will! I exclaim before quickly walking passed her to get back to my car. I didn't say bye... Oh well... I really need to go home and take this test to make up my mind. I need to know why I am late...

Reaching rapidly my car, I throw the paper bag on the passenger seat and drive back home as fast as I can. I try not to think too much about it but it's really stressing me out. I can even feel my hands shaking on the wheel...

Arriving home after a good 15 minutes of driving, I step inside my apartment, lock the door behind me, and rush to the bathroom. I'm so stressed that I didn't realize I didn't put on some music in my car... I always listen to music... I take the small rectangular box out of the paper bag and take the test out. I don't even know how to use that...! I grab the instructions in an unsure motion. Okay... Let's take a deep breath and do it. Better safe than too late, right?

I take the test as it was told on the instructions and wait a few minutes. I think they have been the longest minutes I've ever waited. Even the seconds felt like they would never end. I keep pacing around nervously, thousands more questions burning my mind. I think I forgot how to breathe for a moment. I feel even more nervous than when I was at the pharmacy. Come on! Why is it taking so long?!

I don't know how I feel about the test. I think a part of me wants it to be negative. But then, it would mean that I most probably have a problem and that I will need to go to a gynecologist to find out what's the problem. And the other part of me wishes for it to be true. One, because at least I'll know the reason to why I am late. Two... Well, there's several ways of how to handle this news. I will not take this as a problem in my life, but depending on how things are going to turn out, if this one-night-stand-guy will want it with me or not, I'll have to take a decision. A difficult one... Oh!

I take the test after hearing my phone beeping. I had set a timer, scared to miss what the test would say since I am easily lost in my thoughts. But again, I'm pretty sure the result wouldn't have disappear like this. Two lines... Two lines...! Oh my god... Two freaking lines! I grab the instructions and reread what it says to make sure I understood what it means. One line = negative. Two lines = ... Positive... Oh my God... How...? Why...?

Suddenly, the nervousness is being replaced by this heavy feeling of fear. It's weighting on my chest. I let myself step backward until my back collides with the wall. My body sink to the floor as if a magnet is pulling it. It's not possible... It was just one night... My hand comes over my face as the tears are coming up quicker than I'd like. I feel dizzy suddenly, like the world around me has stopped functioning. I should be happy... I should feel relieved... Yet, I feel just scared right now. What am I going to do? What should I do? What will people think? And what will people say? They will ask me who the father is... Of course I know who he is but, what will they say when I answer them? Oh my God... What will Phil say? What will he think? He won't want it... If I keep this baby, he will never want to take care of it. He has his bar to hold and he has his personal life that he seems to live well... Phil will hate me and the baby... Wait... What if he doesn't believe it's his? What if he denies it? What kind of situation did I get myself into...?

Three hours have passed since I took the test and nothing has changed. My mind is still boiling with questions, fear, and... Trying to figure out what I should do. Should I say it to Phil? What will be his reaction? Should I say it to Jessy? What will she think and say? Will she hate le for sleeping with her brother? Probably... Should I say it to someone else? Or should I keep it to myself? Should I keep this baby? Can I even keep it? It's a lot of responsibility and I'm not sure I'm ready financially for this. I'm not prepared for sure. And will I even be a good mother? Oh my God, stop thinking MC... Oh! Getting me out of my thoughts all of a sudden, I look down at my phone buzzing on the living room table. Speaking of the devil...

- "Hello, bestie. How are you since this afternoon?" I hear Jessy's cheerful voice echoing from the other side of the phone call. She sounds better than earlier. Usually she's always able to cheer me up, but right now, I feel like nothing will...

- Huh... Okay... I barely respond.

- No... I simply answer. Please, don't ask more...

- "Okay...? Did I wake you up?" She asks me, losing her cheerful tone which is replaced by a concerned one. I already heard that tone twice today...

- "You're not feeling well? Because I saw how pale you were suddenly and..." She continues saying, worrying more and more for me. I can tell just by how fast she talks. Jessy has always been bad for hiding her feelings and emotions.

- Jessy! I call her, interrupting her. I can't do this alone. I have to tell her... I don't know what will be the consequences but I have to tell her. She's my best friend and I need her right now. She's the only one I fully trust... I... I need you to come over. I don't know how to handle it, I say with a desperate tone, sounding scared at the same time.

- "What?" She simply asks, unsure of what to say.

- Please, just come... I plead her, my voice sounding faint.

- "Okay, okay, I'll be there in half an hour. Will you be okay until then?" She tells me seriously and sincerely, agreeing and making sure I am fine in the meantime.

- Yes, but hurry up, please, I answer.

We hang up and I let a heavy, heavy sigh out. 30minutes... That leaves me a few minutes to find a way of how to tell her about this. How am I supposed to tell her this? Should I go straight to the point? Should I tell her straight who it is? Should I recall my birthday first? ... Why am I so worried to tell Jessy? It's about Phil that I should be more worried not her... He's the father.

Half an hour passes and I finally hear my doorbell ringing. I get up and go kind of reluctantly open the door to find Jessy standing on my porch. My best friend looks at me with a small concerned frown while smiling with a kind smile. I'm getting nervous again. I can feel it just by my heart beating faster. I can't... I look down and close my eyes as I felt the lump in my throat and the tears coming up once again. Jessy instantly comes in and takes me in her arms to sooth me.

- What's wrong, MC? Is it your mom? Is she okay? Did something happen at your work maybe? She asks me gently, running her hands in my back. She's trying to find out what could have gotten le in such state. But she's far from finding it out...

- No, it's me, I say with a shaking and small voice. The lump takes over my control. I pull away from her and look at my best friend with teary eyes.

- I don't understand, she says while lightly shaking her head left to right. She's patient... She's not pressuring me and I appreciate that.

- I... When you talked about your... Girl things, I... I didn't think much about it but then, I realized that maybe I should have think about it sooner and... I started to say, sounding stressed and like I don't know how to bring the topic to her. And I think she sees it... I never go around the bush. Not like this at least... I'm a pretty straightforward person usually.

- MC ! Calm down, it's okay. What are you talking about? She tells me calmly. I stare at her, not knowing how to say it. Well, I guess there isn't thousands ways to tell the news...

- I'm late, I inform her.

- For what? She asks me with a confused tone. Oh... She didn't understand...

- No. I'm... Late. I'm... I repeat myself, not able to say other words. As if I fear to say those... I place my hands over my belly. Jessy stays quiet for a moment when her eyes falls on my belly for a second. She's processing slowly... My best friend looks back up, looking surprised.

- Are you pregnant? She asks me, seeming to not know what to say or do with the news at the moment. I look away, feeling some tears rolling down my cheeks. I think my quietness is telling a lot. Do you... Do you know who the father is? She asks me. Of course she was going to ask the one question I didn't want her to. How am I supposed to tell her that I am pregnant with her brother's baby after a one night-stand?

- Yes, because he's the only man I slept with in almost 2 months, I reply with a small voice. Jessy waits for me to talk, letting me time to find my courage. I know what to say, I just don't know how to say it... I take a deep breath and wipe my cheeks. Jessy, I'm so sorry. I know you don't want anyone close to him but that night we were wasted and things got a little further than it probably should have and... I begin to explain to her, trying to apologize in the process. Though, one again, I am clearly running around the bush...

- Oh my God! Phil? She interrupts me, immediately guessing who I am talking about. She arcs her eyebrows to amplify her surprised look. You slept with my brother? She asks me, surprised. Is she also mad? Or confused maybe? Does she feel like I betrayed her by sleeping with her brother? Because I remember her telling us to not get too close of Phil, not only because he is her brother and we're her friends, but because she doesn't want us to get hurt because of him. I didn't listen...

- It was at my birthday. Everyone was gone except him and we were a bit wasted and... It started with a kiss and then... It happened, I tell her with a few words, not feeling the need to give any more details. Jessy quietly stares at me as she seemed to process all of this. There's a lot to process... Please, don't be mad at me, I plead her while shaking my head negatively. I look down, not daring to meet her eyes.

- I'm not mad, I'm... Surprised, she instantly answers, sounding as if she wanted to comfort me but not knowing how yet. I nod understandingly. That's a beginning...

- What should I do? I ask her with an unsure tone.

- Well, first you need to tell him, she tells me seriously. Huh? No...

- No. I can't tell him, I respond as I take a step back. I didn't even controlled myself... It's like my body tried to flee itself from the confrontation with Phil...

- Why not? If it's his... She asks me, rapidly glancing at my belly.

- Jessy, really? Phil won't care about the baby. And what if he thinks it's not his? What if he not only doesn't want it but he doesn't believe me? I'll look like an idiot to his eyes... I reply seriously, sounding sure, yet, unsure of what I say.

- My brother isn't like this, she answers, shaking her head negatively.

- Phil loves women. He enjoys his life by being a womanizer. Do you really think that he would bother himself with a baby that he doesn't want? Besides, he has his bar to run. And, I don't even know if I'm ready to be a mother. We're too young, I tell her, saying my point of view and my fear out loud. I don't know if it feels good to tell them but I had to. How would have she understood otherwise? Jessy looks at me with kind eyes when she placed her hand on my shoulder.

- Still, you should talk to him about it, she insists. She always believed in Phil. She always have this hope he will react like no one ever expected him to react. Well, I'm not that hopeful... I'm actually not confident in myself. And I don't know if I am ready for this... I look away and let another heavy deep breath out. I should be so happy right now. I should be on a cloud... But instead, I'm worrying about what the father could say... Hey, it's okay, she says while taking me back into a comforting embrace.

- I'm just so scared, Jessy. Having a baby, it's not something to take lightly, I reply seriously, sharing my emotions with my best friend.

- I know, but you'll find a solution. And whatever you decide, I'll be there to help you because, one, I'm an awesome best friend. Two, if you're having this baby, you're making me an aunt, she responds, bringing back this cheerful tone of hers. I pull away from my best friend and manage to crack a smile. True, I didn't think about this. Although, it's obvious...

- I just need to think and find the courage to go confront him. I'm scared of his reaction, I answer seriously while lightly shrugging.

- Okay, she says with a kind smile. Well, if you need me, you know where to find me, okay? And if you need anything, give me a call and I'll be here to help you, she says seriously and gently, giving me all of her support. She's amazing! I don't know how I would do without her. I smile and nod understandingly.

- Thanks, Jessy. For everything, I thank her sincerely. Jessy smiles at me kindly.

Jessy and I eat dinner together, talking about random things to get my mind off everything a little bit. I think she sees that I'm trying to do right, but I don't know how. I know she just wants to help but sometimes, it's better to do it by ourselves... Right now, only me can take the decision. Although sometimes we need someone to push us a little bit... But for tonight, I'm just going to try not to think too much about it. I think I've had enough emotions for today and I'll have plenty of time to worry the next few days, maybe week...

~ Four days later ~

After work, today, I had to go to the park to take a walk. I needed to breathe some fresh air and try to finally take a decision about what is going on in my life at the moment. It's been four days since I took the pregnancy test and I haven't told anyone besides Jessy... I don't know if it's the fear of Phil learning about it from someone else or if it's to confront him that I am scared of the most... Or if I fear his reaction the most... I know that I have to tell him but I don't even know myself if I want to keep this baby... I'm... Lost. I feel like I don't know what I'm doing anymore.

I stand on a deck, facing the calm horizon. The faint breeze is making the surface of the water slightly wavy. The sun is reflecting in the water, making it shine like the brightest light I've ever seen. There are some fish swimming peacefully. And the calmness of the place is just so... Relaxing. It's rare to have such a calm and relaxed moment in Duskwood... Well, my life hasn't been very calm lately...

- Beautiful day, Stranger, I suddenly hear the familiar voice of a man. It's so deep, so calm, so... Flirtious. I turn my head to the right as I feel someone joining my side. What...?

- What are you doing here? I ask him with a confused tone, actually surprised to see him out of his work. I mean, he has a business to run... Especially at this time of the day... No? I'm so surprised that I didn't even greet him back.

- I closed the Aurora for an hour. There isn't any clients at this time so I went to take a walk, answers, Phil, as I see him giving me his familiar charming smile. And say I fell for it... But who wouldn't?

- And you happen to find me on your walk? I ask him a bit surprised. What were the chances that we crossed path here? Phil Doesn't answer and just smiles.

- I didn't see you much since that night, Gorgeous, he tells me gently, looking and sounding a little bit disappointed. The sound of his deep voice is just so smooth to my ear.

- I didn't think you would want to see me to be honest. You didn't really contacted me either, I reply to the man. I look up at Phil with an hesitant look. I love how he does his long hair. His messy bun letting a few locks falling over his face.

- I didn't think I had to, he responds back. Ouch... I look away from him, a bit... Not hurt but... Maybe disappointed? Is that supposed to make me understand that I was right to not tell him about the baby? Is it supposed to tell me that I should take a decision alone? Should I understand that the one night-stand was nothing more than acts caused by the alcohol? But I think we should get more in touch, he suddenly tells me. Wait... Back up...

- Phil... One, I'm bad at flirting. Two, I'm not in the mood to flirt with you right now anyway, I answer to the man as I continue to stare at the peaceful horizon.

- I wasn't just flirting, he says. What...? Did I misinterprete? I look back at him, confused. Jessy told me, he simply tells me. Told him...? Oh no... She didn't... I was talking with her earlier and I told her that I needed to take a walk... She knows that I always come here for a walk...

- That explains why and how you found me here... I say in a whisper while turning around and walking away. However, I can hear Phil following me closely behind.

- Why didn't you tell me? He asks me with a confused tone, almost disappointed. Is he joking? I stop abruptly walking and turn around to face him. Surprised, Phil stops as well.

- Wh-why? You're really asking? I question with disbelief. He stares at le quietly. Phil, you're good looking and you can be an amazing guy, but you're a womanizer. You slept with almost every girl you made eye contact with. You own a bar so you barely have time for yourself, what would it be if it's for a family? And honestly, I didn't think you would care about this baby, I tell him my thoughts, speaking with a serious and sincere tone without sounding harsh. It's not my point to be harsh. All I want is to be clear and for him to realize the situation we're in. Now that he knows, some things changed... one, I cannot take the decision whether or not I want to keep the baby alone anymore.

- Are you serious? He says those three simple words. Is that all that came to his mind?

- Yes, Phil, I am, I respond sincerely, letting a sigh out. I try to turn around to walk again but Phil stops me.

- So you wouldn't even have let me a chance? He asks me as he caught my arm. His hand on my arm... It feels so soft. His grip is tight but not too tight. Just enough to send a message that he is being serious in this conversation. You wouldn't want to know what I think about this baby? I look down, staying quiet in front of the man. I didn't think you would have much to say about it... This baby is mine too, MC, I get to have a word about it, he tells me with a serious and reminding tone.

- But I'm the one carrying it. I'm the one who has to go through this scary adventure. And to be clear, we only had a one night stand, and then, you never contacted me again even though we're friends. What tells me you would have wanted... More? You never gave interest in me except when you're wasted... I reply with the same serious and sincere tone. I'm not sure he will understand what I mean... Well, I'm not sure someone can understand what I mean and feel at the moment.

- Please, tell me you're joking right now, o-or you must be blind? He says with disbelief. What...? What does he mean? I shrug while weakly shaking my head left to right to show him that I don't know what he is talking about. Jessy never told you, did she? He then says. Confused, I stay quiet before shaking my head left to right again. What is he talking about? My sister actually kept her words... He whispers to himself, but it was loud enough for me to hear him. Phil looks above my head as I see him taking a deep breath in. You've really never noticed the way I look at you? The way my eyes devour you whenever you enter a room? The way I crack a smile when I see you? The way I recognize you just by the scent of your perfume? The way all of the girls in the room becomes suddenly inexistent in a second? He asks me seriously, staring straight into my eyes... I've never seen this emotion in Phil's eyes before. Phil isn't the type of guy to show his emotions actually. His pretty... Reserved in a way. I don't know if it's because of his ego or because he is just like this. But this Phil in front of me, it's the first time I see him...

- Phil, don't tell me words that every girl wants to hear if you don't mean it, please, I say with a pleading tone as I look away. He's making me nervous... This won't help me to make my mind about the situation...

- I'm serious, MC. Do you remember at your birthday how close we were? He asks me. If I remember... It was one of the best nights of my life because I got the chance to be with him for one moment. And I'm not just talking about this moment we had, I'm talking about the night in general. I look away, staying quiet as I understand where he's going from this question. Do you remember how I took your defense when a guy was being too close to you one night at the Aurora? He recalls me. That night was crazy. Thanks God, Phil was here. The guy was ready to hit me due to the amount of alcohol he drank. He came out of nowhere and for no reason, but I guess he didn't need a reason since it was the alcohol talking... It was actually the first time that I saw Phil getting this angry and to throw someone out of his bar before banning him. Do you remember when I drove you back home once or twice? He continues to remind me all of those moments, his deep voice sounding so soft suddenly. I look back up at him as the memories flow in my mind. Have you seen a girl in my car except Jessy and you? He then asks me. Well... No. Never. Why is he doing this...?

- Phil... Don't make this harder, I say with a pleading tone to the man. It feels nice to hear him say that, of course. Who wouldn't want to hear our crush saying those words to us?

- Tell me you never felt anything for me, MC. Tell me I was just a man you wanted in your bed that night. Tell me it was just the alcohol talking, he says, taking a step closer to me, making my heart beat faster for the man. Is this even right in a moment like this one? Of course I didn't just want one night with him. I didn't just want him in my bed. I not like that. But nothing told me he would have wanted more after that night we had.

- You're an idiot, I tell him, not knowing what else to say. The man smiles. You know I'm not the kind of girl who wants a boy in her bed for one night. I've had feelings for you since forever... At least I hope you knew because I'm passing for an idiot otherwise, I admit my feelings to the man I have always had a crush on. Though, I'm not sure it was right to tell him... Maybe I shouldn't have... I can feel myself blush, adding the nervousness. Well, at least he knows now. Phil smiles more and more, looking so charming. And the sunlight beaming in his hair and eyes isn't helping...

- Look, I'm not here to put pressure on you. I just want us to talk seriously about the baby, about the decision we could take together for the baby. Huh, you want to keep it right? He tells me before realizing I haven't said anything much about what decided to do with the baby.

- I don't know, I simply answer, shaking my head left to right.

- MC... He calls me softly, almost pleading me. He wants me to think about it...

- I don't know. I... I have to go, Phil, I repeat before passing my hand through my hair. Honestly, even though I have a bit of work to do for tomorrow, this is more of an excuse to walk away. I know I'll have to talk with him again and very soon, but I guess it's easier to flee right now... As cowardly as it sounds.

- Wait... Please, meet me at The Aurora tomorrow morning, at 10a.m. There won't be any clients. We'll be alone so we can talk peacefully, he demands me with a slight pleading tone. Tomorrow at 10a.m. at the Aurora... I guess I don't have much of a choice.

- Okay. I'll see you tomorrow then, I say, agreeing to meet with him tomorrow. What do I lose anyway? And maybe it'll help me to make up my mind about the decision I need to take... We need to take about this baby because right now, I feel just as lost as before.

Phil and I exchange one last glance before I nod at him to say goodbye. He cracks a small smile and I turn around to leave the place. 10a.m at the Aurora... It's going to be a long night until then... I hope I'll be okay because my morning sickness is often around this time...

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Jake x MC

Plot : Jake and MC are together and they're having a heart to heart moment.

(credits go to the owners of the pics and Duskwood game. I don't own them and I don't own the characters. I just own the collage and one-shot!😉)

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I am lying on the small bed that I share with one of the most precious soul I have ever let in my life. My boyfriend, Jake... The Hacker that entered my life and turned it upside down. But in a good way, if I may say so... Well, let's say he kind of gives me another sight about life. Before, I was randomly waking up and would get ready to go to work. A normal boring day that we all know so well. Now, I'm here helping to help a group of friends that I never even met but that I got well along with. There are ups and downs, there are happy and sad moments, but we walk through the fire to find Hannah Donfort. I guess we can say it's because of this missing person that I am connected and met those people. And more important, that I met Jake...

I sit upright on the bed when I hear the familiar sound of an electronic material. Jake is working on some stuff that he wanted to do on his own. I let him do. I know Jake isn't the type of person that feels at ease with people. Me being here with him is already, and practically, a miracle. I froze for a minute when he accepted for us to meet after I had demand him hundreds of times. I don't know if he said "yes" because he wanted to see me in real life more than anything or if he got tired of my demands... I sometimes think he isn't all sure about this. That he might regret involving me much more than before just because I am living with him. But I'm not scared, so I don't want him to feel this way. Well... Yes, I am scared, but not for myself. I fear for him and the others living in Duskwood. I don't want this situation with Hannah to hurt him. It'll break me to see him devasted... Hopeless... Disappointed, because I know he will think that he didn't do enough to find Hannah when he actually did more than all of us. Anyway... I can't do anything about it right now...

I get up, pass my hand in my hair and walk quietly towards Jake. He looks exhausted. The bags under his eyes aren't the only proof that he is exhausted. The amount of coffee he is drinking and the number of times I slept alone in his bed are proofs as well. I wrap my arms around him as I just saw him resting completely on his chair. My chin rest on top of his head when I feel him letting a long sigh out.

- You need to rest, Jake, I tell him seriously and gently at the same time.

- I cannot, MC, he simply answers as he passes his hand over his eyes to rub them.

- You'll work much better if you rest a bit. But that's up to you I guess, I say as I pull away from him. I know he doesn't like hugs that much. And I'm all the contrary... But I respect his space. I was about to turn around when he catches my wrist.

- I will rest, I promise, MC. But for now, I just need to work on something first. And I need your help with it. Do you mind working with me a little bit? He tells and asks me gently as he softly rubs his thumb on my wrist. Mr. Hacker asking me to work with him... I smile and nod gently my head up and down.

- I'm so tired, but I'll make an exception. I'll do anything for you, Jake, I say with a playing and slight dramatic tone, knowing it will make him fluster. Jake smiles and looks away, still not used to how easy it is for me to make him feel this way.

- I know. Me too. But we have to do this work. Waiting could be a disaster, he says with seriousness, turning back to his computer. I guess he isn't wrong... I'm slowly getting used to him not showing or sharing much emotions. I know it's not against me.

- I know, I respond as I take sit on the barely small space next to him that is a vulgar piece of wood that is supposed to look like a bench. Supposed... Oh... I look at my phone that was charging next to his computer since there isn't much power outlets around here. It's Jessy. I take a look at what she sent me and see a picture of her and Richy working at his garage. Or more like they're taking a break... Some people seem to have fun, I state with a small smile, happy that they can enjoy a little moment, while things are calm. It can escalate pretty fast. Jake smiles when he saw my smile.

- "You two look cute!" I send to them both in our group chat.

- "😳" replies, Richy.

- "🤭" adds, Jessy. I smile and put my phone back down to concentrate on the work Jake wants to do.

- MC? I look up at him while humming positively. What would you like to do? Call the last number on Hannah's phone log or take notes of your friends private chat? He demands me with such a gentle voice. Honestly, hearing his distorted voice was impressive at first. I never knew what his real voice sounded like. But being able to hear it now and always, it's just... It makes me feel butterflies. It's just so soothing and calm and... It's Jake.

- We're spying them again? Why? I ask him with a confused tone while frowning. I don't like spying on them to be honest. Even if I know that we have to...

- I just want to make sure we did not forget anything. We never know if one of them is hiding something and revealed it by inadvertence, he responds seriously as he logs onto everyone's chat. When I watch him do, those computer stuffs just look so easy. But when I think further about it, I don't even know what key he pressed on the keyboard to make this happen.

- Hum... I think I'll take the phone log, I reply after thinking a few seconds. No offense but I think between us two, I'm the one who is more at ease when it comes talking to people and you're much more qualified than I am when it comes to computers, I wink at the boy as I crack a smile. Jake smiles back amused and nods positively.

- None taken. You're right, he tells me. I give him one last smile before grabbing the printed phone log. MC? I stop and look up at him, waiting for him to talk. But no words seem to come out from his mouth. I can see that he wants something but he... Probably doesn't know how to formulate his demand? I was about to call him when Jake suddenly gets up. Oh... His height always gets me. I know I'm not the tallest person in Earth but Jake is quiet tall... He takes the phone log from my hand and puts it down. What is he doing? I look at him confused despite the smile on my face. Timidly, he wraps my waist after bending down a bit and delicately places a kiss on my lips. The fireworks that it causes down my chest... Wow! It's not our first kiss but this feeling... I still haven't got used to it, but it's one of the best I've ever felt. It just feels so right, even if it's just a long peck. I wrap my arms around his neck to keep him closer to me a little longer. But Jake pulls away after a few seconds. Once you're done, please, take a break and rest a bit, he tells me kindly as he caressed my cheek with his hand. What? And him?

- And let you work alone? Not a chance, I reply while shaking my head negatively.

- MC... He calls me with a little sigh.

- Jake... I imitate him which makes him crack a small smile. I smile back. I'll be done in a few minutes, I say with a motivated tone as I grab the sheet he took from me. My left hand still behind his neck, I gently force him to bend down before placing a delicate kiss on his neck. Okay, I've got work to do! I go to the other side of the room and start making the last calls. Well, "call" should I say... There's only one number left. I listen to the beeping sound before someone picks up the call. Oh... Duskwood is really a small town... Phil Hawkins. I write down his name before receiving a notification saying Phil added me. Well... I guess another work is calling for me now. Okay, I'm done, I say as I go back to Jake. And you'll never guess who it was, I tell him, standing by his side.

- Who was it? He asks me, looking curious.

- Phil Hawkins, I respond. Jake lightly frowns to my answer. I let him think for a moment.

- Jessica's brother? He asks me with a confused tone. I nod positively. Why? Wait, who called who? He bombards me with questions. He clearly didn't see this coming.

- I don't know yet and I think it's Hannah who called him, I respond to my boyfriend. Jake keeps this confused frown over his face, looking like he speculates a lot about it. Almost like it seems to bother him in a way. Or maybe I interprete it wrong... What can I do next? I ask him, getting him out of his thoughts. Jake doesn't answer me and finishes writing something down. I see we have more information! That's great! I hope they'll be useful at least... Because having information, it's great but if they're irrelevant... It's like having nothing. He closes the window of Thomas's messages.

- Nothing for the moment, he tells me as he rests on his chair.

- Jake... I call him, doubting his answer. He's not saying this just because he wants me to rest?

- Come here, he suddenly says as he moves a bit backwards with his chair, letting space for me. Oh... Surprised, I crack a small smile and move closer to him as Jake takes hold of my wrist. He pulls me closer and closer to him until I am sitting on his lap. My back is facing him. His arms come around my waist, enlacing it. He can be so sweet when he isn't so focus on this situation in Duskwood. He rests his head on my shoulder. I know I said we should not waste time but it does not mean we cannot take a small break, he whispers next to my ear, making my whole body shiver. I smile with surprise and happiness, feeling those butterflies once again.

- I agree, I say back as I look at all of the material set before me. What's that? A code? Wow... Honestly, I don't know how you understand all of this. It's Chinese to me, I say with a serious and impressed tone while chuckling to my unknowledge. I hear Jake quietly chuckling back as one of his hands comes holding one of mines. At the same time, he places a kiss in my neck. How did you learn all of this? Who taught you? I ask him with curiousness.

- Myself. Computers were all I have that allowed me to be who I was back then, and today still, he admits to me. I nod, being honestly impressed. It kind of makes me sad to hear him saying this, but happy at the same time. He didn't have much people loving him when he was younger but he had his passion at least... That's... Something, right? Even if it doesn't replace people. Now that I said it out loud, I feel like I sound like an idiot, he says with an unsure tone towards himself.

- No, of course not. You have a passion. It's good Jake. And look, if you hadn't had it, what would we be doing right now? Where would we be? Not only we wouldn't be able to help Hannah but we would have never met, I tell him seriously, trying to show him how good this is for him that he knows so much about computers. And for us...

- I don't know, he responds with the same unsure tone. I stare at the screen before me when I suddenly feel Jake moving his head from my shoulder to rest completely on his chair one again. Do you regret it? He suddenly asks me. What? Regret what?

- What? I ask him, confused. I turn a bit to look at him all while staying on his lap. Jake keeps one arm around my waist to prevent me from falling, his hand still holding mine. Why is he so silent suddenly? I squeeze his hand, giving him comfort. Jake suddenly locks his eyes in mine. Those baby blue eyes... How can you not fall in love with those? However, the emotion that I witness in his eyes actually hurts me. Is he not happy? Is he okay? Did he see something about Hannah? What's going on?

- Do you regret being with me? He suddenly asks me. What? Having to hide in this ruined hideout? Having to live with my burden from the day I told you the whole truth about who I am and that the Government wants me? To have to live in fear for people you never even met and for us? To have to lie to them or hide things from them because I asked you? Do you not want the life you had before all of this? He asks me seriously which, I have to admit, I didn't see coming. Why is he asking so many questions? Why is he wondering all of that? Why does he even think about those? Staying quiet, I move from his lap only to sit back on it. But instead of having my back facing him, I am now actually facing my boyfriend. My arms wrap his neck as he shyly holds me by my waist. I take a deep breath in as my eyes keep alternating between his soft lips and his ocean eyes.

- I don't regret anything, Jake, I tell him sincerely while shaking my head left to right. I love being here with you. I don't mind lying to everyone if it's for their protection. I do what I have to do, I assure him, keeping the same sincere tone. Jake looks down, as if he is scared to believe my words. However, I make him look back up at me. And I absolutely don't regret the choice I made when I decided to join your side, my hands gently cup his face as I saw him trying to look away once again. I love you, Jake. I love you so much that just the idea of being far from you or not having any contact with you anymore hurts me so deeply, his eyes are locked in mine. His unsure and scared look makes my heart in pain. I just want to comfort him and... I want him to feel comfortable with me too. I want him to feel just as important than I am to him. You had such a huge impact on my life... A good impact. You gave purpose to it. Even if it involves dangerous situations, even if it involves breaking the law, I don't care. I love you... Loving you, being with you, knowing you're safe, alive, and okay, I say as I slide my right hand down to place it over his heart, that's all I care about, I tell him with honesty as my eyes never looked away from him. I don't know what he exactly needs to hear but I just hope my words will be enough for him to change his perspective on our relationship. Jake clears his throat as he slowly sits a bit more upright. What is he...? He surprisingly easily lifts me a bit only to bring me a bit more closer onto his lap. He tightens his grip after enlacing my back, hugging me so tightly. Oh...!

- I'm not good at expressing what I feel but... But you mean so much to me, MC. You're... He says before stopping himself from talking more. I hear my boyfriend taking a deep breath in and out as he hides his head in my neck.

- It's okay, Jake, I whisper as I know it's hard for him to talk about his feelings. But hearing him making an effort to do it... I just appreciate it so much. His hold tightens around me.

- No, I... You are the best thing that happened to me, MC. And it's scary, he admits to me with difficulty. The best thing... I can't help but to smile at the sound of his words. However his last words worry me. What does he mean?

- Why? What do you mean? I ask him as I run my hand up and down his back. Jake suddenly pulls away from me to look into my eyes.

- I... I never had anything like I have with you before. Being with you. Holding you. Kissing you. Talking with you about everything and anything without feeling judge... Being able to be myself with you... He says as he pushes the lock of my hair that was slowly falling over my eyes. Solving this situation with Hannah. Meeting under this situation... I wish we had met under different circumstances. It's wrong what we do together... But it feels so right. You being with me feels right to me even though it's wrong... He tells me with a serious and slight confused tone. And... I think he actually sounded like he was Getting upset at himself for... Involving me in this mess, I guess.

- Jake, I call him, interrupting him in his speech. He stops talking instantly when he heard The sound of my voice. What scares you? I ask him, going straight to the point.

- If anything goes wrong... If... What if you leave me one day? What if... He says with struggle, able to formulate his question correctly.

- I'm not leaving, Jake, I assure him seriously and sincerely.

- But what if you are lured and none of us saw it coming and you just... Disappear. What if I never see you again? He tells me with seriousness and fear in his voice. I hate hearing this emotion in his voice... I don't want him to be scared. I will never pardon myself for this, MC. And I will never get over losing you either, he confesses. He's getting nervous and almost anxious. At this point, it's not just us that worries him, it's a whole and the fatigue.

- That'll never happen, Jake, I say firmly and with a comforting tone. Though, I can see the reluctant look he has over his face. You trust me? I ask him.

- Unconditionally, he immediately answers, not doubting one second.

- Then don't be scare, Jake. I assure you that it won't happen because I'm not leaving your side and you're not leaving mine. Okay? The Man Without a Face needs to do much better to trap us to take me away from you and so does the government to find our location. We're together in this now, I say as I grab one of his hands. It's a choice I made to join your wild adventures and I want you to respect it and to never doubt it. Just like I do with you, I tell him with the same comforting tone all while telling him my wish and point of view. Staying quiet, Jake timidly looks at me. I crack a smile before leaning in to place a sweet kiss on his soft lips. However, before I could do it, Jake stops me. What...? Why? He...

- I... I love... You, he whispers with struggle. Wow... I think... No, I know... It's the first time that I hear him saying those words. It's surprising coming from him, but it sounds so right. It sounds like a melody. I wanted to be the one to give him a kiss, but Jake didn't let me the honor. Instead, he is the one to give me a kiss to which I answer without wasting time. Our lips move in synch, melting perfectly with each other. The kiss deepens slowly, forgetting what's around us for a moment. Time stand still.

I love him... I love him so much that words wouldn't be able to describe my feelings. Jake is a unique person, I know that. But damn, he's my person. I feel it. I know it. And I hope he feels the same with me. We're ordinary people with a not so ordinary life, but that's who we are.

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Jake x MC

Plot : MC finds Jake after traveling for three days.

Warning : MAKE SURE TO HAVE COMPLETED THE GAME UNTIL THE VERY END (Chapter 8) FOR NO ⚠️SPOILERS⚠️!!

(I don't own the pictures, I just made the collage. Credit goes to the creators of Duskwood and owners of the pics.)

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When I first saw him, once he opened the door of the motel room he is staying at, I was petrified. Not because of the fear or the judgment coming from him, but because I didn't know how he would react. He didn't know I was coming. Well... I guess he could have traced my phone but... Well... I guess it is fear after all. I was scared that he would either reject me and take me for a stupid girl for coming here, finding him. Maybe he would have thought I am stupid because someone could have followed me and that would have put him in danger. Or maybe he would have made it seem as if he didn't recognize me and just ignored me... Either way, both scared me and made me so nervous. It might have been pretty dumb thoughts, but they were literally running in my mind and making my heart race. Though, once I saw his face, I couldn't help but to forget for a moment those fears. It was just so... Fair. The features of his face were fine and mild. His dark messy hair falling loosely over his sweet face. His ocean eyes sparkling despite the black circles surrounding them by the lack of sleep. His lips looking so soft and so sweet. He just looked so... Perfect. I tried to imagine him several times but having him before me was so much better. And let's not talk about his height. I don't go above his chest. And that black hoodie looked slightly oversized even on him... I couldn't blink at that moment, scared it might all just be a dream. I didn't want him to vanish from my sight...

- "MC..." He calls me, his voice sounding as soft as silk. It's the first time I heard it without distortion. Him saying my name for the first time, without his computer thing, and in live just made my heart skip a beat before racing faster. "I knew you were smart, but I didn't know you had such courage to come find me." He says so softly, being so calm. Calm... He doesn't look mad to see me here...? I don't know why but I can't bring myself to talk. I guess... I guess I wasn't prepared for this reaction... Or I wasn't prepared enough for this meeting...? Jake lightly sighs as he puts his hands in his pockets. He seems so nervous and shy. "What are you doing here? Were you careful?" He gently asks me as I see him looking discretely above my head and around the surroundings. He's wondering if someone followed me…

- "I've been camouflaged like this for three days. I was extra careful. Nobody followed me, Jake." I suddenly managed to say, which made him stare at me. His eyes... At the sound of my voice, he looked as if he heard my voice for the first time. Well... It's not like we had lots of calls before either... I start smiling as I suddenly feel some heat warming my heart. He's really standing before me...! "Hi, Jake." I whisper softly as I nervously play with my sleeves. God, I must look like a child... The boy instantly smiles back at me while lowering his head to hide the pink shade coloring his cheeks.

- "Hello, MC" he whispers back, smiling just as bright as I did, forgetting the danger for a moment. Oh my God, that smile... It's a crime to hide it. Without thinking, I just step forward and snake my arms around his back, embracing him tightly. I've been wanting to do this for so long... Feeling him, being able to touch him and not just type on my screen to communicate with him... Just seeing him. The boy was surprised at first as he didn't see me coming. Oh…

- "Sorry... Maybe you don't like hugs. I shouldn't..." I begin to say as I step back from him. However, he rapidly stops me by wrapping his arms around me, blocking me from backing away. I feel him hiding his face in my neck while his long arms engulf me tightly against him. The warmth coming from this hug feels just so right.

- "I can't believe you actually looked for me... What were you thinking? You could have gotten hurt." He whispers in my neck, sounding like he doesn't understand me, yet, like he doesn't blame me either. Always worrying for me…

- "I just wanted to see you... To be with you... I'm... I needed to see you for real and not just through a screen... I needed more than exchanging messages. I know it's super selfish of me, especially since you're wanted, but... I'm so scared, Jake. I just..." I admit to the boy, whispering back to him with nervousness in my voice. Jake tightens his embrace even more as I get on my tiptoes to have a better hold onto him.

- "I'm so glad you're here, MC. Honestly. But you put yourself in great danger by coming here." He whispers to me, sounding worried for me. As always... But not for himself?

- "I don't care about the danger, Jake. I saw enough to face it... And I care more about you then I care for myself..." I whisper back sincerely.

- "We should go inside." He suggests to me, interrupting me. I didn't reply back and simply nodded as I pulled away from him. The two of us walked inside the motel room before Jake closed and locked the door behind us. Safety first. Inside it's... Kind of as I expected. A little messy, but very geeky and boyish. The bed isn't done, the shutters are shut, his computer stuff is all set up and the kitchen sink is half full with throw away food. Well, at least, the room has a very small kitchen... "I apologize for the mess... I didn't know you were coming and... Well, I don't usually receive people so..." He tells me nervously as he begins to clean a bit to make some room.

- "It's okay, Jake. It's just a room." I reply to him with a soft smile as the mess is honestly the last thing I worry about. The boy nods before he moves towards his bed. I watch him making it a bit before he points at it.

- "I don't have any chair left, so if you want to make yourself comfortable..." He tells me with a rather shy tone. I smile and thank him before taking a seat on his bed. Honestly... I'm still not sure why I'm really here. I mean besides the fear, what is my reason? Jake…

- "Jake?" He looks at me, humming softly. I don't know why, but I have this feeling as if we've known each other for years. It's just simple and natural. Yes, we’re a little nervous but it’s not… Uncomfortable or embarrassing. "I think there's a lot that we need to talk about... Hannah, Richy, the group, the theories, those guys after you... Us", I tell the boy with seriousness despite the shy tone heard in my voice. I don't know why I became so shy suddenly. Why am I being this shy? We talked together for months, we care about each other like we've known each other forever... And I feel more than comfortable with him so why this sudden shyness? The geeky boy weakly nods understandingly even though I can tell it was a reluctant nod. Safety first, I know... But I deserve answers too. Jake sits on the floor before me as he lets a small sigh out. Though, it wasn't an annoyed one. It sounded nervous...

Believe it or not, we spent the whole night talking together. First, it was about the group, Hannah, and Richy. It was harsh because I felt all kinds of emotions as I recalled the attack on Jessy, Dan having an accident, Phil getting arrested, Richy dying in front of me... And more. However, it quickly drifted to us when he saw that I was still having a hard time talking about all of this. I asked him questions to know a little more about him like What is his favorite color? What is his favorite thing to do besides computers? What animal does he like best?... Random questions. But I didn't want to ask anything concerning him being wanted. I know I probably should have, but I finally have Jake before me. I can touch him and talk to him, hear his beautiful and soothing voice... I was scared he might not like it and just throw me out... What if he did throw me out, and I got somewhere to rest for the night and when I came back here the next day, he would have been gone? I would have been devastated. Really. I'm not sure Jake realizes how much he means to me. This idiot became absolutely everything to me even though we met under odd circumstances and unexpectedly. I like to think he chose me... That's how we got in contact. But then, I remember that he actually managed to get in contact with me because I apparently know Hannah. Anyway, while having small talk with Jake, I joined him on the floor. I let my back rest against the bed to face him. I wish he could... Oh! Jake moves closer and comes sitting next to me. He's so close... I look up at him, needing to lift my head despite sitting down. His eyes are incredibly blue... It's a crime to have such mesmerizing eyes and not be able to show it to the world. I smile at the boy, feeling warm, comfortable, at ease... At home. I feel at home with him next to me. Jake smiles back at me as his eyes fall on my lips. Oh, don't do that... My heart! I look at his lips as well as I feel the tension coming in between us. He's hesitant... He seems unsure. Suddenly, Jake lowers his head and gently grabs my hand into his. At first, he was delicately stroking the palm of my hand before he interlocked our fingers together. He gives a firm hold before I watch him lifting my hand toward his face. He places a kiss on the back of my hand, making my heart skip a bit before racing. He’s making me go crazy by this simple gesture...

Three days later

Jake and I are in front of his computer, looking for more answers and clues. Honestly, this is gibberish to me. I watch him do his stuff but I don't understand a single thing. But let me tell you one thing... It looks incredibly cool!

I am on my phone, communicating with the group in Duskwood. Thomas and Jessy are fine, thank God! I was honestly worried sick! I think Jake could tell because of how much I talked and paced around in the room... Well, we all deal with fear and stress differently.

- "Jessy and Thomas are okay. They had the biggest fear of their life but they're okay." I inform Jake with a happy smile before looking at him. Oh... The boy is resting completely on his chair, staring at me with a smile. I'm not sure if he is in deep thoughts or... Daydreaming, maybe? Or...? How long has he been staring at me this way? "Jake? You're staring" I say with a playful and soft laugh as I see his eyes devouring my face. They’re sparkling.

- "I know, MC." He answers as he plays with his chair, slowly going left to right. My smile grows wider as I feel my cheeks burning. "Am I not allowed to stare at your fair face?" He says so gently and charmingly. Oh… Someone is opening up a little more to me. I look back up at him, letting a chuckle out. He makes me so nervous…

- "Of course, you can." I answer as all I feel right now is the need to feel his lips onto mine. I don't know what they taste like. I don't know how soft they are. All I know is how warm his hugs feel. But I'm so scared to make the first move... "Well... I think I'm going to get some juice. Want something?" I tell him while standing up. I am just trying to get away from this nervous moment before my heart gives up and my face melts from the blush.

- "No, I'm good. Thank you, MC." He replies with that same splendid smile. I nod and go to the kitchen.

I leave his side and go to the mini fridge. Well, since we're in a motel room, everything is in the same room. In my back, I feel Jake's eyes burning me. I grab the multivitamin juice and go to the cabinet above the sink. Jake did the dishes last night... I opened it and... Where are the two glasses? I close it and open the second one. Empty... What? Frowning confused, I open both doors and take a step back. Are you kidding me? The glasses are on the very top shelf, where I cannot reach them. I slowly turn my head on the left as I hear a chuckle. This idiot... Jake is still playing on his chair, having his head title on the side while smiling. Stop being this cute, oh my God…! I smile and shake my head negatively.

- "Are you underestimating me, Jake? Watch me." I tell him playfully as I approach the sink. I carefully climb on it, get on my knees and stretch my arms to grab the two glasses. Alright... I put them on the lowest shelf before carefully getting down. I take a glass and finally close the cabinet before pouring myself a juice. I close the bottle and turn around to go put it back in the fridge when I suddenly collide into something... Someone. Jake is standing before me, looking down at me with soft eyes. What...? He takes the bottle from my hand and puts it next to the sink. At the same time, he pushes my glass a little bit on the side. God, he is so near me... "Jake, what are you doing?" I ask him in a whisper. The boy doesn't answer. Instead, he just bends over a little while wrapping his arms around me. So tight... I snake my arms around him as well, resting my head into the crook of his neck. I close my eyes, enjoying and loving this feeling.

- "How do you do this, MC?" He asks me in a whisper, sounding confused. Do... What?

- "What do you mean?" I ask him, unsure and confused. Though, I don't get any answer from him again. Jake pulls away slowly, this hesitation seen in his eyes again. "You're okay?" I demand him, which makes him look away. What...? What happened? Why is he suddenly acting this way? "Jake, did something happen? Did the government locate you? Did I say...?" I didn't have time to finish talking when I got cut abruptly... But softly. Jake has his hands cupping my face as he crashes his lips onto mine. Oh God... How do I breathe again? It's a simple kiss, but God, it's so soft and meaningful. Jake pulls away, keeping his face closed to mine. No... I get on my tiptoes, cup the back of his neck with my hands, pulling him back for a kiss. The boy was surprised but he instantly melted. Jake answers to my kiss, our lips moving in synch. They match perfectly. With his body he pushes me until I collide on the small counter next to the kitchen sink. He slowly bends down, never breaking the kiss before feeling him lifting me up. He places me on the counter as the kiss shares our mutual love for each other. After a long moment, we pull away from the kiss, catching our breath, our head resting on each other's shoulder.

- "I never want you to leave, MC. I know I'm nil when it comes to expressing my feelings but... I just..." he whispers seriously and sincerely, feeling his lips delicately brushing my neck. He seems to struggle to say what he wants to say.

- "I don't want to leave, Jake. I want to stay with you. I want to be with you." I whisper back sincerely.

- "I want to be with you too... So much... For so long." He whispers as he pulls his head up to look at me. His arms are still holding me as if he is scared someone will rip me from him. "I don't just want us to work together anymore. Even if I shouldn't because that'll put you in danger... But I want more. Ever since I started talking with you. I want more of you. I apologize for my selfishness, MC..." He whispers to me sincerely, sticking his forehead over mine. His voice is so soft even when he whispers.

- "Jake..." I call him as I place my hand on his cheek. "My battles became yours the day you entered my life. You're always there to help me. Let me do the same for you. You know I'm strong. You know I can deal with lots of things. You know I want to help you and be with you. And you know I love you." Jake pulls his head away to look into my eyes. "I know you don't want me in danger and I know you don't want me involved in those things." I watch him lower his head as he frowns sadly. "But I'll always be there for you. I might not know much about all of this, but I'll learn. For you. I am willing to go through anything just to be with you, Jake. If we're together, we're safe." I gently whisper to the boy, noticing how unsure he still is. I just want to make sure he feels alright with this, and not constantly scared for me.

- "It doesn't just work like this, MC. I don't want to steal a peaceful life you could have..." He says with the same serious and sincere voice, always sounding so soft. He sounds so sad all of a sudden… I open my eyes and, even with his forehead sticking to mine, I notice that his are closed.

- "I think it's kind of up to me to choose which life I want to live." I replied to the boy. Jake nods, knowing he has no power over my will this time. He lets a small sigh out, powerless. "I made my choice. I choose to be with you. Now it's yours. If you want me to stay, I'll stay. But if you don't, then, I promise I'll be gone tomorrow morning." I whisper to him, my heart beginning to race. I frown sadly and with fear as Jake stays silent before me. I know that I placed him in a delicate position. But I can't force him to have a relationship with me if he feels stuck because of him being wanted. Uncertain, Jake passes his hand through his hair while looking away. Why do I feel like I'm losing him all of a sudden? It was going so well... "Jake..." I call him softly, fear heard in my voice. Fear to lose him...

- "Do you promise to always be there? That... If we have to leave in only a minute, you'll follow me? That you can live like a criminal, needing to constantly hide? To live and carry a secret with you forever? Accepting to move around often?" He asks me nervously, frowning with seriousness. He sounds so hesitant and nervous.

- "Of course, I know what it means if I'm with you. I told you..." I began to tell him.

- "MC... There is no going back after that." He whispers while shaking his head negatively, his ocean eyes plunged into mines.

- "I know... I know, Jake. But stop trying. You won't scare me away." I whisper while nodding. The two of us share a long glance, showing him my seriousness from the choice I already made. He nods as well before taking my hand into his. His are much bigger than mine. He comes back closer to me and kisses me once again. The kiss is just so full of passion and love. It was delicate at first, but then, the pressure that he puts in the kiss makes our feelings deepen. Jake suddenly lifts me up from the counter and I circle my legs around his waist. He makes his way to the bed and lays me down gently as he gets above me. The kiss never broke. I run one of my hands in his hair, messing it, while the other one is running in his back on top of his hoodie. He pulls away from the kiss and goes down my jaw and neck. Our breathings get quickly heavier due to the tension from the moment we share together. I know I am not in his mind or heart, but the way he shows me his love through the kisses, the hugs, and the touch is enough to read him and his feelings. It's another side of Jake that I didn't know.

Jake showers me with lovely kisses before we lay down side by side. His arm is around my shoulders and mine is around his waist, my hand under his hoodie and shirt. I softly run my thumb over his skin. My head is lying on his chest, listening to his heart beating. It's so soothing to hear.

I know it's not going to be easy. I know we'll face tough moments. I know there are high risks that we might get caught. He might get caught... But I love him to a point that I need to be there for him, to protect him, to love him. And I need him with me as well. I can’t deny that. If he can do it alone, we can do it as a couple.

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil Hawkins x MC

Part 3 : MC calls Phil. The next night, as she was going to the bar, someone crosses her path which unpleases her. She rushes to the Aurora and that's where another chapter of her life begins.

Warning : little swearing 🙈

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Heyy guys!! How are you? 😁 So sorry this part took so long to be published. Pardon me. Hope you'll like it! 😁

(I don't own the pics, I just made the collage. Credit goes to the creators of Duskwood and owners of the pics.)

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I take a deep breath in and out as I do a messy bun. I feel like I am getting ready for a marathon. My heart is already beating stronger and faster than normal and I haven't pressed the calling button yet. It's crazy how he makes me feel even when he isn't here, next to me… Just a thought of him and it makes my heart racing. I wonder how he feels when I'm close to him, talking to him, or just when someone mentions me. Does he even think about me sometimes? I know Phil is pretty confident about himself but that doesn't mean he cannot feel nervous, right? Anyway... I have a call to make. Alright, one last deep breath in and out and… Oh, you're such an idiot, MC… I'm so nervous that I'm calling the Aurora instead of his phone… I hope he is still at his bar.

- "Hello?" I hear Phil's voice echoing right after he answered. At least I know he is still there... His voice is so restful and deep. I smile just by this simple note coming from his voice.

- "Hi, I'd like to talk with Mr. Aurora", I answered the man, sounding playful as I let a small chuckle out.

- "MC" calls me, Phil, chuckling back. Oh God... You're not allowed to do that! My smile grows as I can picture him just by hearing him chuckling. It's so contagious... "Wait, before you say anything, I'm so sorry about..." He suddenly tells me which surprised me. He spoke so fast...

- "Phil, I'm not upset or mad or anything. Don't worry. It wouldn't be right of me to be upset with you anyway.", I immediately reply to the man, interrupting him. I do not want him to feel guilty or awkward about what happened. There's no need for that...

- "Why not? That girl literally shamed you and flirted with me in front of you." He tells me back, sounding confused as to why I am not angry. I mean… I guess there's reason to be upset but not angry. But are they worth being said out loud right now? I'm not sure...

- "Well, one, you're free to have whatever kind of relationship you want. I don't have a word to say about that. And two, we're not together so I don't see why it should matter." I answer to Jessy's brother which didn't sound that harsh in my head. I close my eyes and hit my face with my hand. Why did I say that? He's going to think I am not in for something with him or that I might have moved on from trying something with him. But then, do I want something with him? Am I ready to be in a relationship with Phil despite the kind of man he is? I mean, he can change… Right? Well, he already changed, right? For a moment, a dead silence takes place in the phone call. "Are you still there?" I ask Phil, my voice sounding faint compared to before.

- "Yeah, yeah... I was just deep in thoughts." He responds to me, sounding… Hurt? Disappointed? Maybe both... I couldn't tell. I let a quiet sigh out as I feel my heart beating so strongly down my chest. I need to know… Even if it scares me, even if it might not pleasure me to hear what he is going to say, I need to know.

- "Can I ask you something?" I gently demand to the boy.

- "Of course, Gorgeous" he answers softly. And the deepness of his voice is just so amazing to hear...

- "Are you being serious about... I mean... Are you really trying to... Do you really…" I sigh again but louder this time. How is he supposed to understand what I want to ask him if I can't put three words in a row? "I'm sorry, I don't know how to formulate my question." I tell him as I lightly shake my head. I'm such an idiot...

- "You want to know if I am playing with you or not?" He tells me as if he just read my thoughts. Oh... Am I this obvious?

- "Yeah. It's just... I'm having a hard time to believe that you actually want something with me. I mean... It's just easier to think that you want something from me than with me. Especially when I see the kind of girls you liked before…" I confess to the boy, telling him my worries all while hoping it doesn't make him step away from me. I don't want to lose him because I worry to much or don't open easily to him... I just need time.

- "I never said I liked them, MC." He calmly answers before hearing him blowing some smoke.

- "But you must have felt something for them, otherwise, you wouldn't have wanted a night with them." I reply to him with an unsure tone.

- "It was just physical attraction, nothing more. It's different from you. With you, it's not just the attraction, it's... It's the spark that I don't have with the others." He tells me sincerely and seriously, always sounding so calm but so sincere at the same time. I hum as I look down. I want to believe him… And maybe I do actually. But there's always this lack of confidence in me that brings me to my rational side. "I told you, MC, and I'll say it again. I love you. Now, I know what you think about me and I know what people say about me. But I don't care. And I care even less of those chicks. I only care about you." He admits to me with the same tone as before, sounding lightly desperate for me to believe him. I care about you too, Phil… More than you think, more than I certainly should. I stay quiet as I meditate on everything happening right now. There is a lot to think about. Suddenly, I hear a light sigh coming from Phil. "MC, do you trust me?" He suddenly asks me. Oh… Well...

- "Of course, Phil." I answer instantly, nodding positively even though he doesn't see me.

- "Then trust me when I say that I'll be ready to change things from me to be with you." He confesses seriously before blowing some smoke again. Change… But I don't want him to change...

- "I don't want you to change anything from you. I just... I'm just not confident enough." I tell and confess to the boy, admit my lack of confidence to him. It actually feels weird… Why am I telling him that?

- "If you let me, I'll prove to you that I really love you and that I'm not trying to play around with you. But I'll only do it if you want me to give you that proof. I'll never force you to do anything. It's your call." He says seriously and sincerely, letting me all the cards in my hands. It's my call… I smile, unable to stop it. Why do I smile in a moment like this one? How can he make me smile in a conversation like this one?

- "You're charming." I tell him which makes the boy chuckle. "I didn't give you your hug." I recall, sounding like I am kind of excusing myself to him.

- "I know. It broke my little heart." He says jokingly even though I could hear he was serious in a way. I giggle at his answer despite being sorry. "Maybe you could give it to me tomorrow night, Gorgeous." He suggests before a small pause takes place in the conversation. "Huh, you're coming to Jessy's birthday tomorrow night, right?" He asks me with an unsure tone.

- "Yes, why wouldn't I?" I demand him back, sounding confused.

- “When are your uncle's funerals?” he questions me, ignoring my questions. The funerals…? Why is he asking about that?

- “Huh... Tomorrow morning.” I begin to answer when something just comes up in my mind. Of course... “Oh, I get it. You think I shouldn't go or I wouldn't want to go to the party?” I tell him, sounding like I have just read his mind this time.

- “Well, I just thought you would have preferred to be alone, maybe? That you wouldn't be in the mood for a party.” He responds so gently and so calmly, clearly caring about my emotions. I could hear how much he cares for me just by the sound of his voice. It’s crazy…!

- “Well, I will certainly be down but, I'd rather be with my friends than alone at home, especially in a time like this one. It's not…” I let a small sigh out. “It’s not good to stay alone. And my uncle wouldn't want me to stay by myself anyway, so…” I reply to the man I have been having a crush on for so long. The pain was heard in my voice.

- “Well, you can call or send me a message if you need to talk, okay? Anytime. I'll be there for you, MC.” He answers sincerely and seriously, showing me his support.

- “Thanks, Phil. That means a lot.” I tell sincerely to the boy, cracking a smile. That warmed my heart.

- “I'm sorry but I'm going to have to hang up, Gorgeous. I need to do the closing.” He says with a disappointed tone towards himself because he needs to hang up. Oh already...

- “Sure, no problem. I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight.” I tell him as I smile like an idiot. Again... Thank God he cannot see me...

- “See you, Gorgeous. Goodnight.” He wishes me back, letting a soft chuckle out. Oh… I keep a smile over my face and hang up. Why did I fall for an idiot like him?

~ Next day, morning ~

Next morning, I wake up and do my little ritual before getting ready. I out on a black dress with black heels but don't bother putting on the small amount of make up I usually wear. It's not necessary, I will ruin it with my cries anyway... Mom is waiting for me at her home. I told her I would pick her up before going to the funeral. I know mom is strong but I’m not sure she’ll be able to drive after the funeral. And to be fair, I’m not sure I will be able myself, but I’ll try… I have to be there for her, firstly, then myself.

~ A few hours later ~

I feel so strange. I feel like a piece of me was ripped and is missing, but at the same time, I feel relieved. I mean… I feel like my uncle is finally resting in peace and I can try to move on, live my life like he would want me to do. Though, I just can’t stop thinking about him… I want to turn the page but I'm also scared to forget him at the same time which isn't a good match. When I saw the white flowers set for my uncle's funeral, I was just so happy. They looked amazing. I just wished I could have bought those flowers for another and more joyful reason though... Anyway, maybe Phil was right to worry if I would come or not to Jessy’s birthday party tonight. I really don’t feel in the mood right now… And certainly not later either…

After dropping my mother at her home, I stayed for a moment with her. I just needed to make sure she'll be okay. And I also needed to be with my mom. I needed my mom. Anyway, I am finally on my way back home as Jessy won’t be long now. I park my car and walk up toward my little apartment. Oh… I’ve got a message.

- “Hey, MC, I’m sorry but I have to go help Cleo with something so I don’t think I’ll be able to make it in time at your home. Can we meet up at the Aurora, instead?” I read her text message which was sent an hour and a little more ago. I completely forgot to pour the sound back on so I didn't hear any of the notifications I received. "I keep my phone close to me though. So if you need to talk, I'll be there." I read her second message. A small smile comes over my lips.

- “Of course, Jessy, no problem. I’ll see you there.” I simply respond to her message as I don’t want to bother my mind right now. I don't want to talk. I guess I’ll get the chance to rest a bit before going to the party. Maybe I’ll be a little more motivated to go there after…

A few hours later, I am on my way to the Aurora to go meet up with the others. Well, I'll probably be the first one since I always come early. There’s a part of me wishing I could actually be home, lying on my sofa in front of the TV, and do nothing, and the other part is telling me, “is Phil alone right now? Will I have a heart to heart moment with him?”. Yes… I think… Yeah, I think I want to tell him that I want to give him a chance if he is really willing to have something serious. I don’t know if it is the right thing to do or not but, I need to… Live. I need to try new things. I need to challenge myself. Telling my emotions to him, how I feel about him, it’s something new. It’s just so hard to talk about how I feel most of the time. Especially saying my feelings to the boy I have a crush on since… A while now.

The streets are enveloped by the darkness of the night, but the streetlights bring some light to them. Thankfully, it's a calm night without any rain pouring down.

- “Hey!!” I hear a familiar voice screaming in my back. Not so calm now... Though the voice sounded… Off. It was a man for sure, but the person didn’t sound very "fine". He talked quite slower than a normal person would do normally and he half chew over his words. Is he drunk? I continue my way, ignoring the man. That's the best thing to do... “Hey, MC, is that you?” What? Who...? I turn quickly around to just give a glance at the person, but I don’t stop walking. Oh… My boss…? What is he doing here? “Whatever. Why don’t you come see your favorite boss, Baby Girl? You could be surprised by me.” He says in a drunk way as he points at me with a bottle. Oh… Huh… I didn't see it before. Hell no! I clear my throat, feeling uncomfortable and scared. I…

Without thinking further, I start to run away from him as I know the Aurora isn’t far from here now. It’s just a couple street corners away… I run as fast as I can, hoping to lose him. Which some chances, he is too drunk to actually run after me. Well, he did still seemed a little bit himself despite the alcohol... There! I can see the colorful light from the bar lightening the street. Please, be there.... Alone or with someone, I don’t care…. Just be there. I rush inside the Aurora and immediately close the door behind me before sticking my back against the door. I thought I was going to make a fool out of myself in front of people, but it’s empty… Though, Phil is standing behind the counter, cleaning some glasses. Breathless, I quickly lock the door and step away from it as I walk backward towards the counter.

- “Gorg…” I hear Phil calling me with his lovely voice. Though, it was quick to faint. “Did you just close my bar?” He asks me with a confused tone as he points at the door. I look up at him, fear flashing over my face. Wow, I didn’t think I was this scared actually... “MC, what's wrong?” He asks me right away with concern while walking around the counter to join my sides.

- “Phil, he's following me.” I tell him rapidly and out of breath as I walk towards him to meet him midway. Wow, I… I didn’t even control myself. It’s like my body just talked for myself, walked over to him, needing to feel this protecting feeling.

- “Wow, calm down. What are you talking about? Who's follow you?” He says calmly and seriously as his hands come grabbing my shoulders. Oh… I stare into his eyes, reading the calmness in them. Though, I can read the concern in them. Suddenly, there’s a loud thud coming from outside which made me jump and gasp, breaking eye contact with Phil. I turned around and found my boss standing outside, still holding his bottle in one hand. He managed to get here without falling? Oh God... Seriously?!

- “MC, bring your sweet little ass outside before I fire you!” I hear him yelling in the middle of the street which made me take a step back. Even with a wall and a locked door separating us, he still scares me. Phil grabs my wrist as he takes a step forward, shielding my body with his.

- “He's drunk and clearly worse than when he's sober…” I inform to the man as we notice that my boss is trying to get inside Phil’s bar. Please, don't break anything here... “I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring him to your bar but…” I rapidly apologize to Phil, shaking my head negatively as I dance on my feet. I shouldn't have come here...

- “Hey, it's okay. I'm glad you actually found your way here." He tells me reassuringly and so calmly. "Stay here. It's okay.” He tells me with the same comforting tone while motioning me to not move. Huh… What is he doing? Phil goes to the front door, looking so upset. He unlocks it and opens it before stepping outside. Though, he makes sure to close it back behind him. “What can I do for you, sir?” I hear him asking seriously to the drunk man. It’s faint, but I can still hear their voices.

- “You?” Says, my boss, while rudely pointing at Phil with the bottle and frowning confused. “You work here?” He tells him with surprise as if Phil wouldn't be able or wouldn't be smart enough to work here.

- “I even own the place.” answers, Phil, crossing his arms over his chest.

- “Right... Look, I'm not goin' to bother you 'ny longer. Just tell me where the little wh**e is?” Then asks, my drunk boss, half screaming in the middle of street. I'm actually pretty sure he doesn't notice that he talks so loudly. Wow... He definitely doesn't know what pet names are...

- “Excuse me?” Questions, Phil, sounding very unpleased and like he heard him wrong. Though, I can tell that it is making his blood boiling.

- “Don't play dumb, boy. Where's she? She and I nee' to talk. If you know what I mean.” I hear my boss saying before he smirks, looking hungry for… Ugh! He’s such a pig! Knowing the thought he must have with me, I grimace with disgust. “She seems like a good little b**ch waiting to be f***ed.” He says before starting to laugh drunkenly. I knew he wasn't nice, but I never thought he had such a disgusting side...

- “Mmh... You see, I deal with clients all day long and I noticed that there are three different types. First one is the nice ones. The ones who come enjoy a drink or two and then go. Then, there are the annoying ones. They take a few drinks and start talking very loudly and getting a little bit out of line but it's still correct in a way. Finally, there are the ones that get to another level which is disrespect and being rude. Unfortunately, that happens to make me angry. Sadly, you're there right now. So I suggest you turn around and walk away while you can.” Replies politely and professionally, Phil, trying not to lose his cool despite the anger rising more and more. I know it. I see it. Just by the sight of the vein popping in his neck and the way he firmly closes his fists… His knuckles look so white...

- “Are you threatening me, boy?” questions, my boss, trying to play tough despite the fact that he struggles to stay still on his two feet.

- “No, It's just a "friendly" advice from one boss to another. Be smart. Take it. Turn around and walk away.” He tells him seriously, trying to make the man go away before it goes too far. I just hope he isn’t as stubborn as he is when he is sober… I stare at them from inside the bar, frowning with concern. This situation makes me so nervous. My boss is clearly unpleased by Phil’s words. Suddenly, the man starts screaming and draws his bottle towards Phil. Oh! The owner of the bar dodges the hit in time and pushes my boss against the wall behind him. The man is face first, kept pushed against the wall. “If you don't leave right now, I'll call the police! Want to think again?” Warns seriously and firmly, Phil, frowning with anger. Though, I can tell he is struggling to keep his anger in him. I have rarely seen Phil this mad… Honestly, it’s scary. Suddenly, my boss makes a rough move backward, his bottle hitting Phil’s ribcage. Oh! I gasp as I saw Phil bending over. My boss turns around and tries to hit Phil in the face with the bottle. Well, he isn’t as drunk as I thought… Phil steps back in time before punching him in the face. I gasp in surprise. I never saw Phil fighting before. My boss lands flat on his belly, the bottle rolling on the sidewalk. Though, he comes back up, helping himself with the wall. I can’t just watch them fight like this… I can’t watch Phil getting hurt because of me… My boss grabs Phil by the collar and pulls him before pushing him against the wall. He still has a certain strength... Though, Phil instantly pushes him back. I can’t...

- “Stop it! Now!” I scream after rapidly stepping out of the bar. I come in between the two men and separate them, forgetting what my boss could actually do. I push the drunk man away from Phil, making him stumble backwards before he catches himself on a car. Meanwhile, I place my hands on Phil’s chest as I felt him going for him. Hell no…! Enough! “Phil. Ph... Phil!” I call the boy as he tries to walk past me to get to the man. He's not angry, he's raging. Though, when I called him, imploring for him to look down at me, he stopped. His eyes met mines and softness instantly drowned them. “Stop, please. Don't enter his game.” I plead him seriously as I weakly nod.

- “I'm not letting that pig talk about you or treat you that way!” He replies with anger, looking back with dark eyes at the drunk man standing behind me. Phil takes a step forward, but again, I stop him, getting before him as I keep my hands on his chest.

- “Phil, look at me. Look at me!” I tell him seriously as I bring one hand to his cheek. Why am I doing this? Why does this feel so… Normal and right? Just with my hand on his cheek, I can feel how much the anger is boiling inside of him. I force him to look down at me. “Calm down, please.” I demand him softly, our eyes connecting a second time. The man stares at me displeased for a moment before letting a sigh out. Please, don’t do it… I didn’t notice, but I’m actually running my thumb on his cheek, as if the hope of him to calm him down will be by this simple gesture.

- “Are you going to make out now? Because I'd rather live the show than to watch it.” Comments, my boss. Gross… Disgusting… Repulsive… I slowly turn around to face the man as I stay before Phil. He is smirking as he looks at my body up and down. I’ve never felt so bad and embarrassed before. Like… He hasn’t done anything to me, but just the way he looks at me makes me feel dirtied.

- “Well, I'm going to make it easy for you, sir. I'm done. I quit. I'll come pick up my stuff tomorrow even though it isn't much.” I tell him with seriousness while frowning madly. I have to end this. My boss stares at me with a frown, processing my words.

- “You can't quit! You're working for me!” He screams back at me, half chewing on his words. As if...

- “Yes, I can!” I scream back at him which surprises him. Yeah, he must not be used to someone replying to him or going against him... “And if that doesn't please you, it's still going to be the same. I'm done being mistreated by you and by most of your clients. And if you can't accept that, maybe the police can help you like the idea. I'm sure I have enough to say against you.” I tell him with a reminding tone, raising my voice lightly but not as loud as he talks to me and keeping that firm tone. I don’t know where this confidence comes from, but it feels… Powerful. Maybe because I know Phil is here and has my back? I don’t know… My boss stares at us two so madly before he looks away. “Oh, and by the way, you owe me at least 4.000$ of pay for all the extra hours I did. I better have them soon if you don't want this to go to justice.” I remind him seriously, pointing at him with my finger. I feel like a tea pot. Everything I've been wanting to say to him, I say them.

- “You were i'competent 'nyway. 'nable to do one thing righ'. I won't be losing much.” He replies at me with a mad tone, almost looking relieved that I’m quitting. I watch him dancing on his feet, almost tripping over his own feet.

- “Exactly, and you were bringing absolutely nothing to me so it looks like we're both winning. Me a little more.” I answer to the man, keeping my firm and mad tone against him. Without saying another word, my boss just scoffs before he turns around to leave. Oh… First time he actually backs down in front of someone… Anyway, he'll far away now. I turn around to look back at Phil, watching him holding his ribs. Oh… “Oh God, are you okay?” I demand him with a worried tone as I try to hide my guilt. It’s because of me if he is hurt...

- “Yeah... He wasn't as drunk as I thought.” Answers, Phil, looking down at me with a light frown. Though, it is not a mad frown or else, he seems more.... Worried or concerned. But relieved at the same time, weirdly… I frown sadly before I look down at his free hand.

- “Come with me.” I tell him gently while taking his hand in mine. “Let me help you” I tell him while helping him get inside. Well… I’m not sure he needs help but still, I just feel the need to help him. He literally saved me from my boss.

- "Thanks, Gorgeous”, he says as he lets me lead him back to the bar. I close the door behind Phil and let him take place on a chair. While sitting, I hear him groaning lightly before he clears his throat, as if he didn’t want me to hear him in pain. Right, I should get him some ice. I walk over to the counter and go behind it. So it should be… Here! “You even know where ice is.” He tells me with an impressed tone as he lets a small chuckle out. How does he know I looked for that? That chuckle… It’ll be my death.

- “I've watched you worked behind that bar countless times. It's not hard to guess where the stuff is.” I respond to the boy as I come back to him, holding a cloth with ice in it. “Let me…” I tell him while sitting across from him. I gently and lightly lift his shirt up just to see if it has bruised or not yet. It’s starting to get bruised... I let a guilty sigh out before pulling his shirt back down. I place the cloth over it and delicately press on it. Phil lightly winces because of the pain and the cold touching his skin as he looks away. “I'm sorry. I didn't…” I begin to apologize to the man as I avoid his eyes.

- “It's okay.” he interrupts me as I feel him looking at him. I know he is. “It's not your fault. And at least I know you won't see that dick anymore.” he says with a satisfied and relieved tone.

- “Honestly, it feels like I just threw an enormous weight off my shoulders. It feels good. Thanks to you.” I admit to the man I have been crushing on for so long as I let a small smile appear on my face. He smiles back while weakly nodding.

- “What are you going to do now?” He asks me with curiosity.

- “Look for another job.” I simply answer.

- “My offer is still on, you know?” He tells me with a reminding tone. Oh… I looked up in his eyes for the first time since I’ve been holding the cloth with the ice on his wound. His offer… Working here... “If you want to work here while you look somewhere else, I'll be glad to have you here. I know you still need to pay for your college so…” He says with his calm and deep voice. How can he be so calm so easily, especially after what just happened outside his bar? My smile grows before I actually softly laugh.

- “Your job sucks so much that you're desperate for a constant distraction?” I ask sarcastically, joking around. Phil smiles and softly laughs back to my comment.

- “What can I say, I'd like to have a beautiful woman working with me. Especially you.” he answers, which makes my cheeks burn instantly. You player… I bite my lower lip without controlling myself and look up in his eyes. They are burning with flames of… Of… Such a strong emotion… Feeling. God, I love him… And those eyes that he is giving me aren’t helping at all…

- “When can I start then?” I demand him, not really knowing how I managed to ask him this without mumbling or stuttering.

- “Monday?” he proposes to me. Huh?

- “Monday... In four days?” I ask him, frowning confused after thinking for a second.

- “You deserve a little break, Gorgeous, don't you think?” He tells me seriously and so gently. He’s just so sweet and caring… I mean, he clearly wants to show who the boss is here because it is his bar, but… His calm personality and the way he behaves most of the time just seem to hide his true self. I mean, Phil is Phil and his words are sometimes raw, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t think otherwise. I nod to the boy before looking down. I feel so nervous suddenly. My heart is racing like never before and I can’t take this idiotic smile off my face. What has he done to me, seriously? Suddenly, Phil gently pushes my hand and the ice from his chest and starts to get up. What…? Where is he going? What is he going to do?

- “Wait, I…” I suddenly say, grabbing his wrist. What just took me? Why did I…? I’m such a fool. And such a nervous wreck right now. I avoid his look, staring at the floor. “There's... Hum…” I have to tell him. I can’t back down anymore. I can’t flee my own feelings either anymore.

- “Are you nervous?” He asks me with a smirk while sitting back down on the chair across from me. Oh...

- “No, I... Yeah. I'm... I'm a nervous wreck right now actually. It's just... I…” I confessed to him, sounding as if I even struggle to breath now. God, I’m such an idiot, why am I stuttering like this in front of him?

- “Am I making you this nervous, Gorgeous?” He asks me in a whisper with his deep voice while slowly getting closer to my face. Oh… I don’t move as my eyes just fall on his lips. They look so soft. My breathing gets heavier instantly. I can’t look at him… I close my eyes as I breath heavily.

- “Actually... Yes…” I admit. After a few seconds, I opened my eyes again as Phil didn’t say a word. The boy has his eyes devouring my lips as the fire in them seems to have grown. “Phil, I…” I begin to whisper, trying to find the courage to say the words.

- “Phil, what? What do you want, Gorgeous?” He asks me with the same deep and calm whisper which makes me even more nervous.

- “Phil…” I whisper his name as I lock my eyes with his. They’re just so beautiful and he is just so close to me... Phil hums with his deep voice as he lightly wets his lips. Oh my… The man gets closer and closer so slowly until his forehead connects with mine. I close my eyes, enjoying how close we are right now. I can’t explain what I feel inside right now, but it’s a total mess. There are butterflies, fireworks… It’s a crazy feeling. Phil brings his hand to my cheek which feels so soft and so right. None of us move. None of us say a word. Nothing breaks this moment. I bring my hand over his, wanting him to hold me. Then, as the two of us are plunged in a deep silence, Phil suddenly pecks my lips. He… Kissed me. His lips are just so warm and soft and the kiss is so delicate. Simple but delicate. Phil pulls away from my lips and disconnects our foreheads. Though, he keeps a really, really small distance. Our eyes connect once more but none of us say a word. There’s no need. His eyes are talking for himself. He just wants to make sure I’m okay with this… I smile with happiness as I bring my hand to his neck and pull him back in for a kiss. What’s happening to me? I don’t know. I would have never done this before. I’m too shy for that. But it just feels so right, right now. Phil answers to my kiss instantly, giving the same softness and warmth than before. It’s more passionate though… The boy grabs my hands and pulls me closer to him as he rests completely on his chair. I let him guide me and sit on his lap, never breaking the kiss. Phil holds me, one hand in my back, the other on my thigh as the kiss becomes quickly heated. Suddenly, he pulls away from the kiss but only to go down my jaw and then my neck. I close my eyes and let my head lean to the side to give him more room. This feeling is just amazing! However, Phil suddenly stops kissing me, sounding just as breathless as I am.

- “Sorry, sorry... I just... We should stop before it's too... Heated. I told you, I don't want to make you do something you don't want to do now and…” He tells me out of breath and with seriousness. I look at him, noticing that he's really not playing. Especially because he stopped before going too far. This proves one more time that he really wants to try this relationship. I smile, feeling just so lucky at this moment.

- “I love you, too.” I whisper to the boy which made him look at me with surprise. He said it so many times to me but I’ve never said it back before. I never dare. I was so scared and so shy. I lean in and give him a new soft and warm kiss before taking him into my arms and letting my head in the crook of his neck. His scent is lovely. I can tell that Phil was surprised at first, but he didn’t put long to hug me back. Jessy’s brother holds me tightly, hiding his head in my neck as well, smelling my perfume. “I love you, Phil.” I whisper one more time.

- “If I knew I needed to fight with your crappy boss to hear you say it…” He says playfully which makes me softly laugh.

- “Well, actually, I was going to tell it to you tonight, anyway. I figured... I can't deny or lie about it anymore so... And I need to live my life as well, take it in my own hands... And you did prove that you want something serious with me so…” I respond to the man sincerely. I can feel my nervousness slowly fading away as I feel more and more comfortable with him. I mean, how could you not? I was starting to pull away from the hug when Phil stopped me. Oh… The man kisses my cheek delicately before kissing my lips one more time. I smile and look at him in the eyes. “Just don't break me, Phil…” I demand him, softly whispering.

- “Oh, I won't. Trust me, Gorgeous. I've been wanting you for a while now. I did lots of things to prove to you that I love you. Things I’ve never done before. The idea of me hurting you is painful. And I think that if I ever hurt you, I'll probably have all Duskwood after me.” He replies seriously to me before chuckling playfully. I chuckle back, amused.

- “Oh, I'm not sure I know that many people but... Yeah, most likely.” I answer jokingly, entering his game. The two of us laugh one more time. His smile is just so contagious. I give him one last kiss before standing up from his lap.

- “Where are you going?” He asks me, sounding disappointed that I got up from his lap.

- “The others are going to arrive soon. I don't really want them to see me taking you for a chair.” I respond with sarcasm to the man as I walk over to the bar to sit on a stool.

- “Well, I don't mind, Gorgeous. Having you sitting on my lap is kind of... Sexy.” he says with his deep voice, looking at me up and down with a smirk. I hum as I notice how hungry he actually looks. Oh boy, he’s been waiting, hasn’t he?

- “You're a naughty little devil, you know that?” I tell him while giggling.

- “Yep, but only for you, Gorgeous.” He replies with a charming tone. I place my hand over my heart before laughing.

- “Phil!” I call him through my laugh.

- “Yes, Gorgeous?” he calls me, using the same charming tone mixed with the deepness of his voice. I laugh again as my cheeks are burning. “So, are we together, MC?” He asks me more seriously.

- “Well, no.” I answer to the boy which makes him frown, confused and disappointed. “What? Don't look at me like that. Technically, we just had a... A... Very unexpected heated moment. But you never asked me out, did you?” I remind him playfully, winking at the boy. Phil laughs to my answer, understanding where I'm getting at.

- “MC, would you like to be my girlfriend?” He asks me with seriousness, yet, having the most beautiful and charming smile over his face.

- “I don't know. Give me a good reason to say “yes”.” I answer playfully. Without waiting, Phil stands up from the chair and lifts his shirt, showing me his abs. I laugh and blush while bitting my lower lip. "Definitely getting there", I tell him as I’m actually devouring his body with my eyes. Seriously, what has he done to me? Phil chuckles as he approaches me. One of his hands goes in my back while the other one passes softly in my hair, pushing it back before placing it on my cheek.

- “You're definitely going to make me a fool for you, Gorgeous.” he whispers softly and lovingly.

- “Not my plan.” I answer playfully while smiling happily. Phil smiles back to me before he slides his hand in my back, holding me against him tightly. I feel him kissing my neck again while he runs his hand in my back. I just feel so comfortable in his arms, so protected.

- “I love you.” He tells me sincerely and with love in his voice.

- “I love you.” I repeat his words with the same tone he used while literally melting in his embrace.

I was a fool for him. He was a fool for me. I was just too shy and he was another man. A lot has changed lately in my life, but this is the best thing I could dream of.

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil Hawkins x MC

Part 2 (2/2) : MC and Phil have lunch but it doesn't turn out as planned.

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Heyy guys!! Here's (2/2) of part2! 😁

(I just made the collage. Credits go to the creators of Duskwood and owners of the pics)

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- Why didn't he want you to have a break? He asks me gently, sounding confused.

- Because I arrived late by one minute this morning, I respond to his question. I look up at Phil as I hear him chuckling. He doesn't believe me...

- Right… he says before looking down at me. I give him a look, showing him that I am being serious. That's enough reason for my boss... Oh, you're being serious? He asks me with surprise. I nod positively as I notice the exasperation growing over his face. What are you waiting for to change your job? He then asks me as we are walking through a small path. Green grass is surrounding it accompanied by flowers. There are two benches every 50 meters. It's one of the most peaceful areas in Duskwood. That's where I usually go by when I need to clear my head. It’s just sad, in a way, that it is next to might work… Oh well...

- Trust me. I looked everywhere. But have you seen a lot of job offers around Duskwood lately? I haven't, I answer to the man as we approach a wooden bench. We take a seat on it while he puts down his bag.

- You could work with me at the Aurora, he proposes to me, using a suggestive tone mixed with a hopeful one.

- Mmmh... I'm not sure it'll be a good idea, I reply and smile playfully to his comment.

- Why not? He asks me, looking a little disappointed. He's actually being serious...

- Well, one, because the others would start to wonder why I am working at your bar, I say as I pull one finger out. Two, will you still manage to work? Won't I be distracting you? I question him playfully, pulling a second finger out while smirking. I know he takes it seriously and I do too, but it makes the atmosphere lighter this way. There's no need to fall on an argument because of that… and Phil is the last person I want to argue with.

- Well, I admit having the beautiful sight you'll be giving me constantly will clearly take my mind off work but, I'm sure I'll manage, he responds with his charming smile, which is contagious, as he enters my game. It's impossible to not smile when he does. I smile as I feel my cheeks lightly burning. It's awful how easy he makes me blush... Phil begins to open it before I hear him rummaging in a plastic bag. Oh… I didn't take anything to eat… I look away, getting nervous. I don't get why he makes me so nervous. It's… a weird feeling. It's a crazy feeling. Here, for you, I turn my head and look at what he is holding to me. Oh…! Cobb salad with a fork, something to drink, he pulls out a bottle of water and gives it to me. I take it. And I heard someone liked dark chocolate so I got some, he tells me, pulling a tablet of chocolate out of his bag. It's terrible… I can't control myself. I can't stop smiling, appreciating his attention.

- My favorite! How did you know? I ask him happily as stars must be filling my eyes. I mean, chocolate is just everything! Phil laughs amused and winks at me. You asked Jessy? I demand him with surprise, yet, kind of… scared of his answer. I don't know why I'm scared about Jessy finding out I accepted to have lunch with her brother. Is this a date in the end?

- No, why would I ask my sister? He asks me back, frowning confused.

- Because she knows me well. And I thought you would have told your sister about this lunch, I simply replied to Phil, telling him my thoughts on how he might have done things before coming here.

- Well, I didn't, he answers calmly, shaking lightly his head left to right. I nod understandingly, keeping a small smile. Did you? He then asks me. I look up at him and start shaking my head negatively. Though, before I could say a word, I was being interrupted.

- MC? Phil? I widen my eyes in surprise to Phil before I turn my head to look at the person. She approaches us, smiling and looking confused at the same time. How…? What are you two doing here? Asks us, Jessy, coming to stand before the both of us. She looks at me with her usual smile, waiting for an answer. Oh God… What am I supposed to tell her? Will she take the truth well? What will she think? I hold onto my fork nervously as I give her a shy smile.

- I saw MC having lunch here by herself while I was walking around so I stopped by to talk a bit, responds, Phil, getting me out of this awkward and nerve wracking situation.

- Mmmh... Shouldn't you be at the bar? She asks him back, looking suspicious. It's hard to hide things from Jessy. Especially since she knows us well… Too well...

- It's pretty empty at this time, Jessy. It's noon. Why do you think I'm eating too? He says and asks her back, sounding calm but also a little annoyed that she stays here and asks all of those questions. I mean… I love Jessy but I'm going to die of nervousness here. I hate keeping secrets from her… Especially when it involves her brother.

- Right, she tells him, not so satisfied by the answer. When does your break end, MC? She then asks me.

- I have to get back in, in like... 15 min or so, I respond to her, looking up at my best friend after checking the time on my phone.

- Let me guess, your boss is being the same dick as ever? She tells me, looking sorry for me. Jessy knows absolutely everything about what my boss said or did to me or my colleagues.

- Bull eyes, I reply, nodding positively. I see Jessy weakly shaking her head left to right, upset with my boss. Oh! Oh, Jessy, before I forgot, could you stop by my mother's for me, please? She wasn't well because of… You know, the loss of my uncle, and I think she needs to take her mind off a little bit, I demand her gently as I know mom considers Jessy like her second child. I'm sure she would be happy to see her. Though, it was hard for me to mention Uncle Alex. Harder than I thought.

- Oh right, I wanted to send you a message. I am so sorry about your uncle, MC. Alex was amazing, she apologizes sincerely to me, her eyes showing sadness. Jessy knees Uncle Alex as well. Duskwood is a small town and, well, Jessy was often at home so she knew him too.

- Thanks… I thank her with a small smile as I frown sadly. I tried...

- Well, I have to get back to work before Richy thinks I quit, she tells us playfully. I smile at her comment. It's true, I think Richy would be lost without her at work. Don't be a dick to her, Phil. I'll know each of your moves, anyway, she warns her brother as she begins to walk away.

- Right… he simply says, sounding annoyed. It was almost as if he didn't mumble to himself. I hear Jessy softly laughing before she finally leaves. I follow her with my eyes before meeting Phil's ones. So gorgeous... So I'm guessing you didn't tell her either, he says with a smirk.

- We all have our secrets, don't we? I reply to the boy before winking back.

- We do, he agrees. The two of us continue eating our lunch as time is passing by. I don't have much time and I won't be able to eat anything before tonight. It's going to be long until then… I look up as I hear a car honking. A little breeze hit my face and pushed back some of my hair. A lock came over my cheek so I gently pushed it away. The sun is so bright in the sky today. You look tired, MC, he suddenly tells me. I do…? I'm not surprised...

- I didn't sleep well. I didn't sleep much. I couldn't with... You know, I answer to Phil as my lock of hair comes over my face again. Though, I couldn't mention my uncle a second time. I couldn't bring myself to do it.

With his hand, he reaches the lock of hair and pushes it gently back behind my ear. Oh… Once again, our eyes meet. As always, there is this connection. They're so deep and… Gorgeous. I mean… How can you not get lost in them? For a moment, we stare at each other as if nothing was surrounding us anymore. I want to get closer to him. I want to know him a little more than I already do. You can't imagine how strong the feeling is… But all of this is so scary. I notice Phil's eyes falling on my lips a few times, desire seen behind them. He is as eager as last night. Without controlling it, I smile at the boy before breaking our look. And back to reality… How can a simple look be so intense? Biting lightly on my lower lip, I feel some heat on my face.

- You're so cute, MC, he tells me with a smile, his voice sounding so… Deep and lovely. I feel myself blushing a little more to the sound of his words.

- And you're a little Devil because you do see that you're making me nervous, I tell him with a chuckle as I push him playfully. Phil laughs along with me before he grabs my hand in his. Oh… My body tenses up due to the surprise and the nervousness he is giving me. But it soon relaxes under his comforting hold. I look down at our hands loving the feeling of being held. Not alone. His hand is so soft and warm. I slowly move my hand and intertwin my fingers with his. Phil lets me do and actually holds it back with a firm, but gentle tight. It's so comforting. I look back up at him and see that the man has been staring at me for a moment actually.

- I do. But blush looks good on you, he suddenly tells me, commenting my previous sentence. Oh come on… How did my heart not give up yet? The two of us smile at each other, sparks certainly illuminating my eyes. I don’t need to see my reflection to know it… This feeling of happiness is enough to say how I feel about him. It’s actually betraying me...

- Hey, Phil, I suddenly hear an unfamiliar voice which gets me out of my thoughts. What…? I retrieve my hand from Phil’s and look at where the voice came from. A blonde is approaching us. Oh… I’ve seen her at the Aurora before. She was “close” with Phil usually. Didn't expect to see you out of your bar, she tells him with a flirtatious look. Right...

- Hey, Lola, I have a life too outside the bar, he responds to the girl, sounding just as annoyed as when Jessy was here. Actually, he sounded more than annoyed. But I can’t describe this feeling...

- Yeah, apparently, she tells him as she looks at him up and down with hungry eyes. Oh please… I look away, staying quiet. What are you doing here anyway? She asks him, putting her hands in her back jean pockets, winding-up. Like it’s not already obvious what you’re trying to do...

- I'm with a good friend, answers, Phil, not revealing anything about this lunch. Right… It’s better this way. Reluctantly, I look up at the girl and give her a small smile. The girl looks at me up and down, clearly judging or being bothered by my presence.

- Right... She says before looking back at Phil and smiles at him. Maybe I should go… I feel like I'm being too much here right now. Can I see you, tonight? I need a little distraction and I'm sure you do too, she asks and tells him with that same flirtatious tone.

- No. I'd rather not, responds, Phil, not even taking time to think of the answer.

- Oh come on, tell me you don't need to relax a little bit. I'm sure the last few days must have been stressful. I could help you with that, she replies with the same annoying flirtatious tone while biting her lower lip and twerking some of her hair with her finger. And Phil liked that…?

- No, it was pretty calm, he tells her, shaking his head lightly. My absolutely not confident self kicks in again… Is he telling her "no" because he knows I want to hear this? Is he doing it because he really doesn't want anything with her? Or will he contact her right after I go back to work? Is it just a play from him? I look away upset and thoughtful. It was going so well...

- Fine, as you want. You know my number if you change your mind, she tells him, sounding disappointed at first but quickly uses that annoying voice and tone again. Even better… Of course he has her number… Well, he can do whatever he wants. We're nothing technically. Just friends. And I'm not jealous of this girl. I just don't like it… The girl leaves us, swaying her hips. Oh God… seriously? Watch where you're going instead...

- I'm sorry… apologizes to me, Phil. I look up at him, disappointed and… I guess, hurt. I'm not disappointed by him. I guess I just don't understand why I didn't see it coming...

- No, it's fine, I say standing up from the bench. I mean, you're mister popular-with-women and it's obvious we couldn't avoid this… I say with a serious tone, a point of jealousy in my voice. I think it's the first time I ever hear this emotion in my own voice. I mean… I'm not jealous… am I? Well… I guess I am...

- No, MC, I'm serious. I don't… He quickly tells me, interrupting me while standing up from the bench as well.

- MC! I suddenly hear someone calling my name. Really? We can't be alone for 30 seconds? I turn around and see Angie approaching rapidly. Oh… I know we're next to the restaurant but why is she here? She should be working... Sorry to interrupt but I just wanted to tell you that you have 2 minutes left before the boss comes to look for you. I'm kind of keeping him in my sight so he doesn't come yelling unnecessary at you again, she tells me seriously, having my back. Thank God for having her as my colleague! She actually saved me from two situations… My boss and Phil's...

- Thanks, Angie, I thank my friend. The girl nods before turning around and starting to run toward the restaurant. I face Phil again, watching the boy looking at me with a small frown. He looks… A little nervous? Disappointed? I have to go, Phil. Sorry, I tell him while shaking my head lightly. Thanks for lunch, I give him a quick and very small smile. I turn around, not waiting for his answer and start to walk toward my work place.

- Will you call me? He asks me, coming after me. I stop and turn around again. Once you're out of work, will you call me? I think we need to discuss what happened, he tells me with a surprisingly pleading tone. Hum… Please, MC, he pleads me all of a sudden. I stare at him a little moment, actually surprised by his tone… Of his emotions. I'm lost… I'm not sure what to believe anymore. Maybe the lunch wasn't right after all? Or was it? So much happened in half an hour...

- Maybe... See you, Phil, I reply with a small nod. Phil lightly nods back to me all while he looks down. He’s... Hurt? It’s actually weird to see this expression on his face...

Without another word, I turn around and walk back to the restaurant before my boss comes looking for me. I already don't know what's going to happen since Phil "argued" with him…

My afternoon passes slowly… Slower than this morning. And just like my boss said, I couldn’t leave work before 6pm… Anyway, I’ve done my day, that’s the most important thing. I mean… One of the most. I wanted to go to my mother’s to bring her the little surprise and to spend some time with her. I wanted to see her. It’s been hard lately for the both of us. I need my mom just as much as she probably needs me. When I reached her front door, I knocked on it, but nobody answered. I knocked again, but still, nobody answered. I took my phone out and only noticed then that my mother had contacted me. Why didn't I look at my phone first…?

- “Hey, baby. I’m going to go see Sarah around 5:30pm so I don’t think I’ll be home when you’ll come see me. I’m sorry, MC.” I read her first message. Oh, she’s not home... “Jessica came to see me this afternoon. You told her to come, didn’t you? Well, I’m glad you did, baby. It felt really nice to see a familiar face and to talk about everything and anything other than the situation we are living currently. Thanks, baby.” I read her second message which brought a soft smile on my face. She’s still sad, I can tell, but she seems to have also realized that life isn’t done for her. My uncle is gone, but not us. We still have to live. That’s what Uncle Alex would want us to do anyway… I know it. I crack a small smile again despite the sad frown. Tomorrow is going to be another long and emotional day… I let my little surprise for mom in front of her front door and walk back home. We live ten minutes from each other’s house. I don’t need my car…

Three hours have passed and I am sitting on the floor of my living-room. A piece of paper is set before me, I am holding a pencil and the TV is on. However, I am not watching it. I only have it on to have some noise in the background. The night has fallen and a small warm light is illuminating the living-room. I am preparing my speech for tomorrow. I’ve been trying to write it for… For a good hour and half now. I have so much to say… And yet, I can’t find a way to say them. It’s hard to find the right words. I try. I wrote a dozen drafts already but all of them sucked. It’s so hard to say how I feel. I don’t open up like this easily. And it’s hard to recount a memory when I know that… It just won’t ever happen again. Not with Uncle Alex at least… I had so many good family moments with him and mom. Vacances… Festivals… When I graduated… My birthdays and Christmases… So many good and memorable moments. I think what blocks me is that, no matter how I try to put it in words, there's just not this magic or this thing that made this moment amazing for me. I just want it to be perfect…

Suddenly, I hear my cell phone buzzing. I gasp as I get out of my thoughts. I wasn’t ready to hear it buzzing… I look at the I.D. caller before answering the call.

- Hey… I say to my best friend. I sounded tireder than I thought… What time is it anyway?

- What did you do or say to my brother? She asks me with a confused tone, actually interrupting me. Huh? What is she talking about?

- Wh... I... I'm sorry, I don't follow, I respond to Jessy with a confused tone. I put the pencil down and lean back to lay against the sofa. I look up at the ceiling, frowning confused. Why is she asking me what I’ve done to Phil? What does she mean by that?

- Phil. Did you say or do something to him? She asks me again, reformulating her question. She sounded just as confused as before. And not upset.

- Why would I have done something to Phil? I ask her back, not answering her question. I mean… Phil is certainly the last person I would hurt… I know I left him kind of on a disappointed note, but… I had to go back to work anyway.

- MC, he told me, she says with a slightly annoyed tone. Though, it wasn’t an annoyed tone to tell me I am bothering her, it was more in a way saying “I know, just spill it out”. He did…? What?

- About the lunch? I ask with an unsure tone. Yet, a point of sorry is heard in my voice as I know that I’ve hidden this from her. And I hate it to have hidden something like this from my best friend… We usually say everything to each other.

- About everything, she responds. Oh… Well, there’s no need for an explanation then… I guess... I've never seen Phil like this for a girl before. I almost didn’t believe him when he told me, she tells me, still sounding like she doesn’t believe what he… Did or said to her. He's really trying, you know? She suddenly tells me. Oh… Trying? I mean, it's true that he did put in some effort for lunch earlier today and he did reject the girl… Lola...

- I'm supposed to call him, I just… I admit to my best friend before pausing. I didn't forget to call Phil. I’m going to call him. I don't hold grudges and I don't dwell on a situation that didn't turn out the way I would have liked. I’m not like that. I just wanted to do the speech first... I am writing what I want to say to my uncle for his funeral tomorrow morning, I admit to Jessy as I stare blankly at the white paper in front of me.

- Oh, MC, I'm so sorry. I thought... You didn't reject Phil? She apologizes to me before a brief pause takes place. Then, she asks me a question, sounding confused. Reject? Now I am the one being confused.

- Reject? How can I reject your brother? He never asked anything, I ask her before stating a fact. I mean, shouldn't I be the one who thought I would get rejected?

- That idiot, I hear her mumbling with a disbelieving tone before sighing.

- I will call him. I just need to finish this first, I tell her my plan sincerely and seriously.

- He told me about Lola, too, she tells me. Oh God… Please, don't mention her. He told me what she said and the way she looked at you. He didn't like it. He hated that she looked at you as if you were a cockroach ready to be smashed and how she talked to him before you. He doesn't want you to think what's not true, she explains to me seriously. She's having her brother's back… It’s not surprising. That’s actually good that she’s having his back. But... How much did he tell her?

- And what's not true? I ask her. He's a womanizer. He's good looking. He owns a bar. He likes girls. That's his nature to run after them, I reply to Jessy, feeling so unsure about myself. Wait… Did I really just tell her that her brother is good looking…?

- MC... She calls me gently as I hear lightly sighing. He rejected her for you. He even deleted her number from his phone. Don't you see what this means? She admits and asks me. I look down with a light frown. He did this? I think it's the first time he actually comes to see me at work because he needs to talk, she says with seriousness, a point of disbelief heard in her voice. Work? Wasn't she with mom? She must have gone back to work after...

- “Comes”? As calling? I question her, unsure.

- “Comes” as walking inside Richy's garage, she corrects me. Oh… It's true that I've never seen Phil going to Richy's garage except for his car, maybe? I'm not even sure about that...

- Phil likes me like... A potential boyfriend would like his potential girlfriend? I mean... Not like he likes Lola? I demand her with a slight shy and confused tone. Yet, some hope in my voice. I hear Jessy softly giggling.

- Phil is Phil. He has his way to do things, which aren’t always the best, and his past. But I can tell you he isn't playing with you. I'd be the first one to yell at him for hurting you, she tells me seriously. She's the best! Wait… But I would never let her choose between Phil and I if things go wrong. I would rather want her to side with her brother than with me. Their siblings bond is much more important. Even though she means everything to me as my best friend. Anyway, there's still something off...

- Wait... You're not mad? I demand her with surprise. I mean, I was expecting her to kind of yell at me for not telling her the whole thing with Phil. Or to just yell at me for having lunch with her brother and maybe more… If it ever happens...

- Why would I be? She asks me back, confused and surprised by my question.

- You're my best friend and he's your brother. Isn't it weird to you? I remind her and ask her with a confused tone. I'm just really surprised...

- Well, I’m definitely caught between two stools but, if you two like each other I can't stop that, she replies sincerely which makes me smile. Why can't I control myself?! I keep smiling crazily when something involves Phil and I. I must be so obvious how I feel for him... I feel my cheeks slightly burning again. It's awful how I can blush so easily with that guy... He was right, it's cute how you blush when someone mentions you both, I hear Jessy saying with a playful tone. What…?

- How do you know I'm blushing? I ask her with a surprised tone as I widen my eyes.

- I didn't but now I do, she says as I hear her laughing. She tricked me… I laugh along with her, amused by how much she knows me. She doesn’t even need to see me anymore to know my facial expression. Anyway, I'm not going to get anything done right now… Maybe I should call Phil first and then get to my speech.

- Thanks, Jessy. I think I'm going to call Phil now, I tell her gently as I keep a small smile on my face.

- Okay. I'll go then. But don't tell him I called to tell you all of this, okay? She asks me with a giggle. Oh, she wasn’t supposed to tell me? The little Devil… I chuckle at her comment.

- Of course, I agree with her. Oh wait! I suddenly stopped her before she could hang up. Thanks again. For my mother this time. She told me that she was going to see her best friend. I'm sure your talk must have helped her realize that things are still going on and that it is just a hard moment to pass, I thank and say with sincerity to my best friend, holding the phone before my mouth as I put her on speaker.

- No problem, she replies with her usual cheerful tone. Oh, before I forget, I'll need your help tomorrow night, she tells me rapidly, sounding excited this time. Just in time… I was about to hang up… Let me guess...

- For your dress as the birthday girl? I demand her even though I already know the answer. I smirk.

- Exactly! She exclaims while giggling.

- Of course. Can you come to my place though? Tomorrow is another long day for me and… I ask with an unsure tone before trying to give her an explanation.

- No need to explain. I'll be here at 7:30p.m., is that alright for you? She responds and asks me.

- Perfect! Thanks Jessy. For everything, I thank my best friend truthfully. I hear her giggling cheerfully as usual before we say our goodbye and hang up.

My head is just so full of thoughts right now… With being concerned for my mother even though she is dealing with the loss of her brother at her pace, dealing with the loss of my uncle at my own pace as well, thinking about Phil, thinking about my stressful job, or more about how much money my boss owes me for cutting my pay so many times, thinking about all the work I have to get done for college… There’s just so much at once. I feel like I haven’t been resting for weeks… Why is it so complicated? Everything seems simple when I’m with Phil though… His calm behavior is just so relaxing and just his presence in general makes you feel comfortable and safe and… Good. Jessy is right, I should call him. What else do I have to do anyway? And let’s not lie to myself, I’m dying to call him to hear the sound of his voice...

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil Hawkins x MC

Part 2 (1/2) : MC goes to work and a certain boy comes to meet her for lunch.

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Heyy guys! Here's a piece of part2. It was too long to put the whole thing on Tumblr at once (apparently) so I had to cut it in half 🙈 (2/2) is coming!!

(I just made the collage. Credits go to the creators of Duskwood and the owners of the pics.)

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I slowly wake up, feeling and hearing something buzzing. With my eyes still closed, I slide my hand under the pillow next to mine to grab my phone. I hate waking up by alarms… It feels like I am being cut in my sleep. And I’m not going to lie… I love my sleep just as much as I love food. Who doesn’t? I open my eyes and turn the alarm off before quickly closing them again. I didn't sleep well last night… When I went to bed after texting Phil to tell him I got home fine, I couldn’t stop thinking about the discussion we had at his bar. Was I right to say “yes” for lunch tomorrow noon? Was he being serious? Is he playing a game? Am I falling in his net? I don’t know and I think that’s what terrifies me with him. I just don’t want to be his next hookup… If I start something, it’s for a serious relationship, not to play around. That’s not my thing. But that’s exactly what Phil does so… I guess I should just trust a little more myself. Anyway, that was just the first part of the night, because the next part, all I could do was think about my uncle. Every time I closed my eyes, I just recalled amazing moments with him. Moments that mom, he and I won’t ever have again… I laid on my back, on my sides, on the side… And I did this over and over until managing to fall asleep.

I turn on the lamp on my nightstand when I hear my phone suddenly buzzing again. But I turned it off… Oh! I grab my phone and answer the call after looking at the I.D. caller.

- Hey, mom, how are you? I just woke up… I tell my mother with a still sleepy voice as I sit on the side of my bed. The light is still too much so I close my eyes for a few seconds more. Suddenly, a noise coming from behind the phone call catches my attention. It’s not a noise I am used to hear her make... Mom? I call her with some concern.

- “He's gone…” I hear her simply whispering through the phone as another sound catches my attention again. Sobs… Mom is crying. I’ve heard my mother crying before. It’s so… Strange and heartbreaking. I mean, mom has always been that strong figure, fighting everyone coming in her way or in mine… But she never broke down before me.

- I know, mom. I'm so sorry. But… I begin to respond calmly, keeping the pain to myself. I’ve never heard nor seen my mom crying in my life. She’s all I have as a family and hearing her in such pain… It’s heartbreaking.

- "Can you come over today? I'll need you to finish the preparation of the funeral. I can't do this alone. And..." She interrupts me, sounding overwhelmed and submerged. I lower my head and keep a desperate sigh inside of me. I wish I could already be next to her and tell her to not worry. That she doesn’t have to do anything. That I will take care of this for her. But I can’t because of my dumbass boss… Unbelievable...

- I'd love to, mom, really. But I have to go to work, I begin to say, sounding sad and sorry for not being there for her. I hate it. I feel like I’m betraying my own mother. That I’m not giving her the support she needs right now. And maybe the one that I also need... But she knew uncle Alex for longer than I did so it’s fairer that I should be there for her... But once I'm out, I'll stop by your house to come help you, okay? So I can see you a little bit too, mom. I should finish at 3p.m. today, if my boss doesn't think otherwise, I tell her gently. Though, an unsure point is heard in my voice. We never know with my boss… If he had a bad day, he is capable of giving you two extra hours to do just because he wanted to.

- "You know, your uncle was always there for me. I remember when we were kids…" I frown with sadness to the sound of her voice. It’s broken… She sounds empty. Out of life. "There was this horrible kid terrorizing the youngsters. I was one of those kids being terrorized, but of course, as my big brother, he protected me. He always did. He was really protective, you know?" She recounts me in brief words with a trembling voice. I know the story by heart. Uncle Alex used to tell it to me as a bedtime story. He was the hero of course. I never doubt that… I hear mom sniffling and letting another sob out. "So was he with you, baby. He loved you as his own, you know?", oh… When she said "baby", her voice just completely broke. I could barely hear it. I continue to look down as I feel a lump forming in my throat. I miss Uncle Alex like crazy... "And he did the same when your father left..." She admits to me, going to the topic about how my uncle was protective. Which I already knew as well... It honestly hurts to hear all of this so soon after his tragic death. I still haven’t digested it. It’s still not real to me. I still think I will see him today or tomorrow or the day after tomorrow... But it seems to make mom feel better by saying those words to me, by recounting her memories. So, I'll listen carefully. Or I'll try, at least… If I don't break before too. Her pain is so profound… And shared.

- Mom, you don't have to tell me all of this now. Let some time pass. It's hurting you, I say with a slight pleading tone, hoping she will listen to me. I know it's hard to not think about it or to not want to talk about it. But I just think it's too soon for her. And for me... She can't turn the page in a finger snap. It’s impossible. Even if she feels like she did or she has to do it, it might not be the best way.

- "I love you, MC. You're my baby girl." She says over the phone, sniffling sadly again. I nod even though she doesn't see me. I am staring at the floor, my sight being blurry. Not again...

- I love you so much, mom, I reply to my mother, controlling my voice as much as possible despite the tight ball in my throat. She doesn’t need to know that I’m about to cry too. I hear her sniffling behind the phone call again followed by a new sob. I can't… Look, I have to go, mom, but I'll come see you later today, okay? I'll come with a little surprise, I tell her gently, wanting and feeling the need to cheer her up. I just want my mother to be happy again.

- "A surprise? You know I don't like surprises much, MC.", She replies with a mix between her crying and a faint chuckle before reminding me how she has always hated surprises. I know…

- That's why I'm bringing you one, I answer to my mom, cracking a smile to the sound of her faint chuckle.

- "You're a little Devil, just like your uncle... What's the surprise?" She begins to say before pausing. It's true, I got a little bit of him too. I guess it's because he sort of raised me and because I'm a (l/n) as well.

- Mom, if I tell you there would be no point for me to call it a surprise, wouldn't it? I answer with a gentle and playful tone before giggling. I hear her crying turning into giggles.

- "I tried. Okay, go to work, baby, and... I'll do a few things here... I'll try. Oh, and I ordered the flowers you asked me to pick for your uncle." She responds with another small chuckle before sniffling one more time. I smile a little more, glad to hear that I managed to make her smile a little bit despite the situation. She ordered the flowers… My smile grows a little more, glad about this news.

- Okay, call me if you need me for anything. Doesn't matter if I work or not, okay? I love you, mom, I reply sincerely to my mother, giving her a little cheerful tone.

- "I will. I love you too, baby. See you later.", She says back to me, sounding a little better then when I answered the phone. I smile and wait a few seconds before hanging up. Right… I feel like I have another long day coming… I let a long sigh out, as if I am trying to get rid of a weight on my shoulders, before wiping the tears in my eyes. Well, I've got to get ready...

Almost an hour later, I am on my way to work. Like every day, I see the same streets, the same cars, the same shops, the same streetlights… Of course, I am not going there with an ounce of motivation. I’d rather stay home or go anywhere else, but not there. I’m not saying being a waitress is the worst job, but my boss and some clients are actually really hard to deal with. Anyway…

I rapidly reach the back door of the restaurant I work at and enter the building which leads to the kitchen. The cooks and the waitresses are all here, ready to work. Oh, almost… I hold the door for Angie and she runs in, thanking me at the same time. We exchange a smile and get ready to start working. The clients should start coming soon… It's been three months since my boss decided to expand the restaurant to include a little coffee shop. I think it was a good idea, a good change in Duskwood. It was a test at first to see if people would like it. The clients seemed satisfied so that’s why I am here so early every morning now.

- MC! I look up immediately after hearing a gravelly voice yelling my name. My boss walks briskly towards me, a frown of madness plastered over his face. As usual... What time does my watch indicate? He asks me while showing me his watch on his right wrist. What…?

- 8:01am.? I answer, not sure where this is going.

- You were supposed to be here at 8:00a.m.. Not at 7:59a.m., not at 8:01a.m., but at 8:00a.m.! Is it so hard to understand in your dummy brain? He tells and asks me with madness, actually scolding me for arriving one minute late. As always, he raises his voice while talking, making sure everyone can hear who is commanding here. I guess you see what I meant when I said that I wasn’t very motivated to come to work...

- I'm sorry, boss, I simply say as I don’t want to argue nor lose my job. Well, it’s mainly that I’m not up to an argument right now… I have other things to think about. To worry about.

- Don't. Since you came late, you'll go home late. You're finishing at 6p.m. today, he tells me with a correcting tone, looking down on me. He’s joking, right? 6pm?

- What? You're making me do three extra hours for one minute late? I demand him with disbelief as I’m getting upset.

- And you're not paid for those, he points out seriously, still speaking as loud as before. Not paid?! Better and better...

- Sir, I can’t work extra hours today. I have to go see my mom this afternoon after work. My uncle passed away yesterday and I have to help for the funerals and… I explain to my boss with seriousness, going up against him. I mean, I can be shy and quiet and all, just don’t take me for an idiot or play with me.

- That's not a valuable excuse. Get to work before I change my mind and actually fire you for rebellion, he orders me seriously and sternly. Right… I look down, not responding to not receiving any consequences later. Everyone, back to work! he screams to all of his employees before walking away to do his life. Dick!

- Don't listen to this cold hearted dick, MC, I hear Angie telling me as she comes to stand in front of me. She’s a little taller than me. If you need to leave, then do. I'll cover for you. I knew something wasn't right yesterday but we barely crossed paths so I couldn't ask you what was wrong. I'm really sorry about your uncle, MC, she apologizes sincerely to me as she puts her hand on my shoulder. Angie is one of the only workers I get well along with here. Yeah, nothing goes well in this restaurant… It’s sad because it could have its potential. I smile at my friend while weakly nodding.

- Thanks, Angie, I thank her sincerely as I place my hand on top of hers. She smiles and nods back before the two of us take separated ways to go do our work.

The morning passed pretty quickly to be fair. I prefer when it’s like this. Working and watching the time pass is one of the worst feelings. There were so many clients this morning that I didn’t have time to get bored. It’s actually pretty rare that there are so many people coming in the morning. I mean, it’s still a little buzzy usually but not this much. I hope that will put my boss in a good mood and he’ll kind of forget the late minute thing this morning… Right, even I don’t believe this… I take the plates and cutleries that customers have left to clear the table. I clean it well and let other customers settle in. The noon hour and 1pm are the worst. There is often a line of customers waiting for a table but it goes on pretty well usually. Anyway… It’s time for my break. I put the dirty dish and cutleries in the bassin which is on a cart to later go to the kitchen.

- Hi, I turn around to look at the person who is not so unfamiliar to me, I'm looking for a pretty (h/c) with crazy (e/c) in which you would easily get lost in. Have you seen her around? says and asks me, a man, using a flirtatious and slight playful tone at the same time. I smile and softly laugh while nodding.

- Yeah, I think she went back to the kitchen a little while ago. But I don’t know where she went after, I reply playfully to my friend as I point towards the kitchen. The man softly laughs back before passing his hand in his long hair which isn't in a ponytail or a bun for once. How dare he look so good?

- How are you, Gorgeous? Asks me gently, Phil, as we are facing one another.

- I’m good. I have the same problem as last night, but I’m good. You? I answer with a very faint sigh as I keep a small smile before asking him.

- I'm good, thanks, he responds, having that damn smirk in the corner of his lips. The two of us stare at each other for a little moment, a smile on our face. I can’t really explain why or how, but seeing him here, now, like we said last night, makes me happy. So, is it still on for having lunch together or...? He asks me, a point of nervousness heard in his voice. He isn’t sure of himself which is so rare to see.

- Yes… I begin to tell him before hearing a gravelly voice calling for me.

- MC! I turn around and see my boss approaching us. Oh… No time for talking! Get back to work! He tells me harshly in front of Phil. Oh God… So awkward! I know I have said stories to my friends about my boss, but none of them actually saw the man talking to me that way. And I wish it wouldn’t have been Phil seeing and hearing him talking to me this way. What is he going to think?

- You're seriously letting that dumbass talking to you this way? I hear Phil whispering lowly in my ear. His deep voice echoing in my ear… He sounded like he couldn’t just believe what he just heard. Oh but it’s real, Phil… I live it every day like all the employees here.

- It's almost 1p.m., sir. I'm on my break… I begin to respond to my boss, not forgetting that I actually want to get out of work at 3p.m and not 6p.m. I still have hope… A faint one but, it’s still there.

- Break? He repeats my word with disbelief as he is standing right before my face now. No break for you today. Come on, move! He exclaims, speaking with a mad tone as usual. If I didn’t know him, I would think he actually hate me. Which might be the case… It’s not possible to scream so much on someone without reasons, right? Ugh, is that guy ever happy? Or just calm?

- Hey! I hear Phil’s loud voice coming from behind me before I could say anything to my boss. I slightly widened my eyes in surprise as I didn’t think Phil would say something. She's your employee, not your stooge! You should watch it! He tells him with a warning tone which I’ve never really heard before. The only time I heard him using this tone was when one of his regulars overstepped the line. I look on my left as I see Jessy’s brother standing next to me, slightly getting before me. Oh… He looks so mad.

- And who might you be to talk back to me? Questions, my boss to Phil. Oh no… I glance around us and notice that customers are staring at us, watching the scene. So awkward… Before Phil could do something or say a word, and mostly before it goes too far, I grab discreetly Phil’s wrist. He doesn’t move nor look at me. My boss is still staring at Jessy’s brother. He is not pleased at all...

- Look, sir. She's been working since 8:00a.m., and it's 1p.m. in less than five minutes. You can't take off her lunch break just because you're her boss, it's against the law. But if you think you are above them, maybe we could stop by the police station to see who's right? Responds calmly and politely, Phil, all while still having this warning and serious tone. I’ve always been amazed by how polite he can stay despite the circumstances or the situation. I mean, it’s easy to lose control due to anger, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he fights.

- 30minutes. No more, tells me, my boss, reluctantly giving me a break. Thanks to Phil… I nod positively before he turns around and leaves us at a quick pace. Phil turns around before looking down at me.

- Thanks, but you didn't have to do that, Phil, I thank him with a small shy tone, yet, thankful he actually stepped in for me.

- I did and I wanted to. But honestly, that guy deserved more than just a "talk", he replies with sincerity and seriousness. While talking about my boss, I could hear the madness in his voice. I nod understandingly as I give him a small smile, appreciating it for standing up for me. It’s not every day it happens. Come on, he suddenly tells me with his infectious smile. I don't answer. Instead, my smile grows wider while the two of us walk through the restaurant to reach the outside. Oh, he has a bag! How did I not see it?

[straykidsworldwild]

Duskwood

Phil Hawkins x MC

Part 1 : MC is having a horrible, horrible day and she goes to the Aurora to have a drink.

(⚠️Sad. Some swearing ⚠️)

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Heyy guys!! Here's a little Phil Hawkins one shot part 1 because there's not enough Duskwood imagines 🙈

(pictures aren't mines but I made the collage and the character aren't mines. All rights go to Duskwood creators and owners of the pics.)

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My day was total crap... I don't believe I've had such a horrible day before. Or at least, not for a long time... It feels like everything is falling apart little by little. Like nothing is meant to go normally. I woke up like any other day, and yet, it feels like I woke up in a chaotic world where everything is meant to go wrong... Since that call, everything is going downhill...

The night has fallen which means I have officially done my day. It felt like forever... Like I am in an endless loop... And since I was meant to do the closing, my day felt even longer than usual. I just finished cleaning the little restaurant I worked at and closed it. It's not a job I would want to do my whole life, even though it is nice to work in a restaurant, but I need money to pay for my college study. My mom is helping pay for them, but I'm trying to pay as much as I can on my own. Anyway... I am walking in the streets of Duskwood which are beamed by the streetlights. It is surprisingly emptier than usual. I guess it's due to the rain... Like my day wasn't cloudy enough already... I think I need a break... Yeah... I need a drink...

I walk toward a familiar building, some greenish-blueish light lightening the area. Aurora... The famous bar of Duskwood owned by my best friend's brother. I've rarely been there alone... Usually I go with the rest of the group. But I really need... Ugh... Maybe I should just go home? Isn't it too late to go there anyway? Ugh... I'm asking myself too many questions. I guess a drink really won't hurt. I reach the door before falling face to face with a sign. CLOSED. Great... I sigh disappointed as I am standing under the rain. Oh... But he is still here. Through the window, I can see a familiar figure cleaning the place. Oh well, I'm neither here nor there... I lift my hand and knock on the door of the bar. The man turned around as I got his attention. I cross my arms over my chest and notice that the rain has already soaked my hair and my vest. I must look awful... The man comes up to the door and opens it for me.

- Gorgeous! Come in before you catch a cold, tells me, the man, using that nickname he always does. I don't know why he does it... I never heard him calling other girls like this. Well, he does use pet names but not this specific one. I step in the bar and he closes the door behind me. You know I love you very much but I'm about to close so... He begins to tell me with his famous smirk despite the little fatigue I can see on his face. His hair is held up in a bun as he usually does when he works. He is wearing a white shirt, letting his huge tattoo on his neck appear, and a black trousers. By the sight of his eyes, I can tell he had a long day too...

- I just need one drink, Phil, I simply answer to my friend. My voice sounded so... Tired and flat. Phil looks at me with a slight surprise, losing slowly his smile. I guess the sound of my voice surprised him. Please... I plead to him with the same tone.

- I would never say "no" to my favorite customer, would I? He answers with a smirk. I faintly smile back at him, happy that finally something goes well. For now... He could have said "no". The two of us walk over to the bar and I sit on a stool while he goes behind the counter. We're alone in the bar since he was about to close so it's pretty quiet. The usual I guess, he tells me with his deep and calm voice.

- Actually... Whiskey. Pure, I reply, stopping him in his momentum. Phil looks back at me for a second, processing my words.

- Wow, I knew you had that wild part in you, Gorgeous, but I didn't think I would ever see it, he tells me with a surprised tone again. Yet, he doesn't seem to dislike it. Phil gets two glasses and he pours a little bit of the beverage in the glasses.

- A little more, please... I tell him with the same flat and tired voice. I stop myself from letting a long sigh out. Again, I feel his eyes burning me before he pours a little more alcohol. Thanks, I thank him.

- On the house, he tells me, leaning against the counter as he raises his glass. I was about to retort but he gave me a look, telling me he won't change his mind.

- Double thanks, I thank him again, clinking my glass with him before taking a sip. Argh... That tastes awful! I can feel the liquid burning my throat.

- So... I know I act like I am very happy to see you, which is the case, don't get me wrong, Gorgeous, he begins to tell me before rapidly correcting himself. But I also see that you're not fine, MC, Oh... I look down as I take a deep breath in. It must not be very hard to see I had a bad day then... Usually I can hide it pretty well... But right now. It's too deep, too much. I'm not even sure "bad" is a strong enough word to describe how crappy my day was. What's wrong? He asks me, sounding calm, gentle and interested, yet, with a point of concern.

- I'm okay, Phil, I softly respond to my friend while slowly shaking my head negatively.

- Mmh... This "I'm okay" sounded more like a "I'm-not-okay-but-I-am-putting-a-brave-face-on". Like a hidden call for help, he tells me gently, yet, seriously. His deep voice is just so... Irresistible, and always so calm. Who could resist it? Well... I guess at this moment I can. My mind is too bothered and busy right now. I crack a very faint smile before looking down at my glass again. I take a sip of it and lightly grimace to the taste of the drink. Who hurt you? He asks me seriously as he takes a cigarette and the lighter. Who… Why someone and not something?

- It's not about me, I respond in a whisper, lying to him. I hate talking about myself when I'm down. I don't want to bother people with my problems... I don't want to be the one to bring negative vibes. Oh no... I turn lightly my head to the side as I feel the tears coming up. I need a break... I need to break.

- Lie, he simply says. I don't look at him and I don't contradict him either. What happened? He asks again with seriousness, not letting this subject aside. I don't answer again. I can feel a lump in my throat. The tears are thick in my eyes and threatening to fall at any time now. MC, talk to me. I'm not here to judge you or... I hide my face even more as I can't stop myself from grimacing sadly. I can't take it... I let a sob out accidentally as if my body is talking for myself. I want to scream. But I can't... MC... He calls me with concern. Phil puts down his cigarette and walks around the counter to join my sides. I don't move and keep my back to him. I hate when people see me crying... Phil puts his hand on my shoulder so I could face him but I push it away, not too harshly, but not too gently either. I let another sob out as I closed my eyes. The tears are so thick and warm... There's so much emotion in them. They roll down my cheeks regularly, evacuating my pain. Without saying a word, I feel a pair of arms holding me. A chest lays against my back. My hair was all wet... His shirt must be wet too by now. It's okay, MC, I hear him whispering. I should push him away. I know how Phil is with girls... Isn't it too easy to cry in front of him and him then being too nice? I know he is my friend and my best friend's brother, but... God, I'm lost. Usually I go to Jessy or I call her. But I came here... Why? Ugh...

- I'm sorry... I whisper shakily through my sobs. I came for a drink and I ended up breaking in front of him...

- No, it's okay. Get it out, he says with a comforting and calm tone. It actually sounds weird coming from him... I know Phil for a few years and he was never like this. I mean, he is always calm but caring like this? That's rare... More than rare. Long minutes later, I slowly calm down. I am still breathing lightly shakily but I'm not sobbing anymore. Only a few tears here and there stream down my eyes. I take a deep breath in and out before wiping my cheeks. I don't remember when was the last time I cried this much... It hurts. It hurts so much. I accumulated too much. I didn't break when mom told me about my uncle's death… I guess I didn't realize what was real and happening at the moment… Or I didn't want to believe it… That built up on my nerves and… This is the result. Slowly, I pull myself away from Phil who didn't let go of me one second. I turn around to face him, but avoid his eyes. Like I thought, the top of his shirt is all wet, letting his tattoos appear a little more on his chest. I'm still confused about what just happened... That's not me to cry in front of people like this... And that's definitely not the Phil I know. Tell me what's wrong, Gorgeous, he says seriously, still wanting to know what got me in such a state. He never gives up...

- Everything, I answer back, my voice lightly breaking. I wipe my cheeks again as I clear my throat. To begin with, when I woke up this morning, I learned that my uncle had passed away during the night. He drove a truck from a country to another and... I explain to him, confessing the terrible news that started this awful day of mine. However, I couldn't bring myself to finish my sentence. I bring my hand over my heart and press on it as if it would take the pain away. Since the call... Just saying those words hurts just as much as saying them in my head. If not more...

- I'm sorry to hear that, he apologizes sincerely.

- Me too... Thanks... But that's not it, I thank him with a sad tone before lightly sniffling. After receiving my mom's call to tell me this awful news, I went to work today because I couldn't stay home. I needed to get my mind busy and to... Not think about the incident, I confess as I feel a new tear rolling down my cheek. My uncle and I were close, you know? He kind of raised me with my mom since my dad left her when she told him about me, I admit to the boy. I watch Phil frowning as he discovers a part of my life that I don't usually bring up. Why am I telling him all of this? It's not like he cares anyway... Does he? Anyway, to continue this unpleasant day, I had the pleasure to meet very unpleasant and rude customers all day long. Like this one call wasn't enough already... One of the customers said that they didn't want me as their waitress because I've got curves, some others telling me I was too long when in reality I just walked away from their table, a couple literally told me I gave them the wrong command and threw their drinks at me, and another one insulted me because there wasn't anymore sandwich like he wanted, I tell him all of this in just one single breath. Yet, you could hear how tired and hurt I am right now. I guess the death of my uncle adding this unnecessary crap was just too much at once. And to add more, my boss is cutting half my pay off because I accidentally broke a cup... A damn cup! Can this day get any worse? I finish to say as I look away, letting a heavy and shaky sight out as another tear rolls down my face. My hand is still over my heart as if I am protecting it all while trying to reject all negative emotions. Suddenly, two fingers softly come grabbing my chin and force me to lift my head up.

- Your boss is a dick, MC. Always have been, always will be, he tells me, the sound of those words sounding familiar. How many times did he already say this to me? I stopped counting... But I should listen, he is right. And f**k those customers. They're not happy? Tell them to go to another restaurant, he responds seriously. His deep voice sounds so calm despite the upset look he has on his face. Am I upsetting him or is he upset because of what happened to me today?

- Right, I kind of need to keep my job despite everything. But you can go tell them that, I respond with a small scoff, yet, trying to use sarcasm.

- Sure, give me names and faces and I'll find them, he replies playfully, yet a point of seriousness heard in his voice. I smile to his answer, appreciating his concern and protectiveness. Though, I never thought it would ever happen one day. Phil is... Not the last person I'd go to to talk but definitely not the first one either... Usually. I look away again and lightly sniffle. Phil wipes some of my tears away. His hands are so soft... It's weird. I've never seen you cry before, he whispers. I look back up at him, watching him slightly frowning. That's true... Not sure a lot of people saw me crying before either... Not even Jessy. I weakly nod before shrugging.

- How does it feel to watch a girl crying in front of you? I reply slightly playfully. Jessy's brother grabs something on the other side of the counter before handing it to me. Tissues... I take them from his hand, thanking him.

- It's painful. When it's you... It's different... Painful, he responds, taking his cigarette again. Oh... I wasn't waiting for an answer like this one. I was waiting for him to say "Can you just stop thinking for a moment?" Or "Stop crying over so little"... But none of that. I watch Phil blowing some smoke, making sure it doesn't go in my face.

- Is the womanizer Phillip Hawkins starting to be an emotional guy? I question him with a playful tone, cracking a smile. I think it's the first time today that I cracked a smile. A real one, I mean.

- No, he's the same dick, he answers, shaking his head left to right while chuckling. Oh... Of course. That would have been too surreal. I'm not going to lie, Phil is a good looking guy. His long hair, his tattoos looking so cool, his piercing, the way he dresses, his voice,... Just the way he is is attractive. The sound of his chuckle runs through my body.

- He admits it, I reply as I feel myself smiling more and more as the tears are coming to a stop. Prove it, I tell him with a daring tone. Phil leans against the counter, smirking.

- Wanna stay with me, tonight? At my place. The bed is comfy and big enough for us two, he proposes seriously to me, a point of flirt in his voice. I know he is being serious. I can hear it in his voice. And that look of his... I know girls don't refuse him generally. But I'm not them. And I don't want to end up in his bed just for one night and then nothing. That's not me... That's not who I am. That's not what I want. He can be incredibly good looking and just be his amazing self, I'll still refuse.

- I don't do one night stands, Phil, I remind him seriously.

- I know... He replies, a slight hidden note of his tone telling me he is disappointed. It's no secret that Phil has been liking me for a while. He has tried to ask me a few times before but I declined them all for... Obvious reasons. Let's do two then, he suddenly says, half joking, half serious.

- Phil! I exclaim as I chuckle.

- It's okay. I'll accept even three nights. Or more. I won't mind, Gorgeous, he continues to say, but I can tell he is joking this time. I softly laugh while shaking my head. There's that smile I love, he states, sounding satisfied with himself for making me smile. Honestly, Gorgeous, don't mind those idiots. Don't let them get to you, he advises me seriously as he finishes his whiskey.

- I don't usually. But I thought going to work was going to help me forget that awful news for a moment. I went there hoping to clear my head. I guess it was just too much today and I needed to break. Sorry it had to be you watching me like this, I answer and apologize to the boy as I take a sip of my drink. Ugh... It's the last time I take Whiskey... I lightly grimace and put the glass down.

- I'm not. If you ever have a bad day again and feel the need to talk, don't hesitate knocking on my door. Even if it's closed. It's always open for you, he tells me seriously and sincerely. Honestly, I haven't met that guy before... Where's the Phil I know?

- Thanks, Phil, I thank him before stepping down the stool. I step up twice and take him in my arms. The man envelops me back in a warm embrace, running softly his hand on my back. I pull my head away and place a kiss on his cheek as a thank you. And before you think of anything spicy, that kiss on the cheek is the farthest you'll ever have, I rapidly tell him, a point of warning in my voice, yet, using a playful tone.

- You're definitely killing me with kindness, MC. My poor heart pays dearly, he tells me with a frustrated tone before I watch him taking my glass of Whiskey. Oh... He winks and takes a sip from it. Oh yeah, drink that thing... I don't like it anyway. And I think he noticed it...

- Moh, maybe one of those girls coming here could put a bandage on it to heal it, I say with some sarcasm, yet, with some dislike heard into it. I always hated that those girls could "help" him... I mean, what do they have? What does he see in them? Before anything said, no, I'm not jealous... I just don't like him with other girls...

- They could. But will it be worth it? He answers while nodding before taking his cigarette and blowing so smoke away.

- You tell me. You're the one who can't resist "beautiful women", I reply to the man, stating his own words. Phil smiles and chuckles lightly to my comment.

- They can definitely help at a low point, he answers, agreeing. Right... Wait, at a low point?

- At a low point? What do you mean? I ask him with a confused tone.

- I can sleep with every woman that wants me. But, in the end, it will never mean anything like... Like when you're with me, he suddenly tells me, lowering his head lightly. His smile disappeared, showing seriousness. Did I hear him right? Did he just say those words? I stare at the man, confused and speechless. Me? Why...? Since when...? Ugh... He had a few drinks today, didn't he? Phil looks back up at me, but his eyes give a quick look at my lips.

- I'm sorry. I'm trying but... Are those words really coming from you or... Did you have any drinks before? I demand him seriously, yet, with a playful tone to keep a cool atmosphere. Arguing with him is the last thing I want. Phil cracks a smile but it doesn't stay long.

- I know I play a lot around with different girls. I know what you think of me. I'm a f**k boy. And I know I tried several times to get a night with you. But... It's not just a night that I want and you don't seem to see that, he replies, not denying who he is but also kind of reproaching me to not open my eyes about him. Well… How could I? If he doesn't tell me, I only see things the way I see them... I nod positively before looking down. Why do I feel a little sorry suddenly? I shouldn't... There's something different with you, MC. You're different. From all the others. I don't want to hurt you. I don't want to dirty you. I don't want to play with you. I don't want to break you, he tells me gently and seriously. I slowly look back up at him and notice how close he is to me. Was he that close to me before? I can feel my heart beating like crazy down my chest. It's wrong... It feels right, but it's wrong. I know it...

- Phil... I gently whisper his name as I a look down again.

- I love you, MC, he interrupts me with his calm and deep voice. What...? I stare at him with wide eyes, surprised by the words I just heard. I didn't even know he knew how to say them… Especially while sounding sincere. He meant those words. I love you like I have never loved a woman before. And I'm not talking about loving the "pretty woman" that you are. No, I mean... He sighs. You're pretty. You're more than pretty. You're prettier than all of those girls and I am not talking just about the way you look. I just... Again, I hear Phil sighing. Despite the fast that he stays calm, I can sense some nervousness coming from him which is unusual. Phil is never nervous, especially around a woman. He is the exact opposite actually. He is pretty confident about himself. He talks easily, flirts easily… You're not a price I want to win or a pride to have f**ked in bed. You have this thing that the others don't have. You're special, he says with the same calm and slight nervous tone. Phil looks straight before him as he blows some smoke. Special... He noticed this little thing in me, which I didn't know I had…

- You really noticed that small thing in me? Because, honestly, I'm everything but special. I can assure you, I demand and tell him with a point of shiness. Wow... I didn't think I would have sounded so shy all of a sudden...

- I told you. I love you. And you know those words don't come out of my mouth easily. Actually, I don't think I ever said them to someone before, he replies seriously and gently before taking a last blow and putting out his cigarette. I stare at him, not really knowing how to react. I mean, of course it does make me feel something. There's... There are those butterflies flying in my belly. My heart is racing and my cheeks feel a little warm... Maybe a little more than a little, actually. I know I feel something for him. I can't deny it… But there's still things in the way...

- Honestly, I'm discovering another man right now. Why don't you show this side of yours to people? Pride? Male ego? I demand him with a small confused tone, yet curious.

- I am who I am, he simply answers.

- Mmh... Well, I like this Phil better, I answer him as I crack a smile. Phil looks at me and his serious face turns into a smiling one again.

- So, would you go out one night? Or during a lunch break? He proposes to me, hope heard in his voice. Oh... Well... I know your days are long and I work at night too so it'll be short but... He tells me gently, reminding us of our busy lives. Right, there's not a lot of moments where we can meet… But do I want to meet him like this? I mean, yes, I want to but… Do I want to get in something like this? In an uncertain relationship where I'll fear he goes to see someone else to distract himself from me? Despite this side of him, he is still Phil in the end...

- If you do this to only get me in your bed... I whisper, interrupting him. I hope it's not a plan of his to get me in his bed... That'll be the worst thing he could do... Especially as being my friend first...

- I do this to win your heart. As cheesy as it sounded... Nothing more, he tells me seriously, staring into my eyes. Speechless, I stare at him as well. For once in my life, I just want to do right. Especially with you… For you… Because of you... But it's only if you want to, he responds sincerely to me, looking serious. It's actually a little disturbing. Phil has always had respect for everyone, including me. He always respected that I didn't want a one time thing… What changed?

- I don't know, I whisper, confused by the situation. It's not that I don't want to be with him nor that I don't like him. On the contrary. I love Phil. But... There's few things in the way...

- Because of my past with women? He asks me, sounding really confused that I won't accept. I'm certainly the only woman telling him "no". Especially after a few tries.

- Yes... And because of my insecure self. Look at you and look at me. You own an amazing bar, I work as a waitress with a crappy boss. You look cool and get well and easily along with people, I look like that discreet and shy girl who is nothing more than being awkward. And you're my best friend's brother. And there's the age gap, which is the least that bothers me, I tell him everything that I thought on why I don't say "yes" to him. I mean... I think he can understand where I'm coming from. I hope... I don't want to lose a friend, in a way, just because of that...

- You're perfect the way you are, MC. Nobody will take that thought out of my mind, he states seriously. I notice how his eyes are alternating from my own to my lips. They keep going up and down. He seems eager...

- Right... You said it, not me, I say with a disbelieving tone, yet a playful one while I giggle. A small smile comes on my face which keeps growing more and more. I'm not going to lie, but hearing him saying those words do something inside me.

- And I believe it, he says while nodding. He does... I stare at him for a moment, the two of us plunge into a deep silence. It's not awkward... It's intense, but not awkward. I'm just so not confident with myself. What if he is playing me? And what if he is not? Ugh… I should let go sometimes... Really... I could open doors I didn't even think I had the key of.

- Tomorrow. Meet me for lunch if you're free. We can start there to see how it goes, I propose to the man which, I notice, makes him smile instantly.

- Is it a date? He asks with a smirk. Well...

- I'm not sure... Maybe... We'll see, I reply unsure, yet, smirking back at him. Yes, I'm entering his game easily... Was it right? Though, we could hear this point of shyness in my voice.

- Will I get to finally kiss you? He then asks, slowly getting even more closer to me. Oh... I can feel my heart racing a little more, hearing it beat in my ears. He's making me so nervous… Kiss me… Is that all he wants?

- Phil... I whisper his name, annoyed, as I lightly title my head on the side.

- What? I showed you a part of me, doesn't mean the other one is gone, he answers with a not so innocent tone, still smirking at me. I keep staring at him a little annoyed despite the amused smile on my face. Alright, just lunch, he says, agreeing. I nod back positively. And a hug? He rapidly asks.

- A hug? I ask, surprised and confused. Phil winks at me. I can see he is waiting for an actual answer. Oh well... Sure. Whatever. I've got to go home. It's getting late, I agree before standing up from the stool. I didn't think but, when I stood up, my face got so close to his. At this moment, when my eyes met his, it was as if the time had stopped for a second. Slow motion. It was like I couldn't remember what reality looked like. I feel my cheeks starting to burn before I look down to hide my certainly blushing face from him. Why did I have to happen to have a crush on him? Why him? Why does he make me feel this way? I clear my throat quietly and start walking towards the door.

- Be careful on your way home. Tell me once you're there, he tells me as he follows me behind.

- I will, I reply. I was about to open the door when his hand grabbed the handle first. My fingers brushed his. I retrieve my hand and let him open the door for me. Still with my cheek lightly burning from previously, I manage to cross sight with his eyes and smile at him. Thanks for the night, the drink, holding me when I cried, and for listening to me, Phil, I thank him sincerely as I weakly nod to the man.

- You're very welcome, Gorgeous, he responds with his deep and calm voice while smiling back at him. That damn smile... Goodnight, MC, he wishes me softly.

- Goodnight, Phil, I wish him back. The two of us exchange one last look and smile before I walk out of his bar. I put my hands in my pockets and walk home.

I'm not sure what exactly happened there... I went to the bar to have a drink to relax and take my mind off and I ended up with Phil holding me when I broke down and accepting to have lunch together. Will it be a date? Will it actually go somewhere? Was he being serious? So many questions burning my mind... I will see how tomorrow goes. I'll have so much to do tomorrow, anyway... Mom is certainly going to call me for the funerals, my work is going to be tiring as always, and the lunch with Phil... I wonder what Jessy will say if she knew that her brother and I are going on a... Lunch? Date? Whatever it's called... Will she be okay with... What we're doing? Will she mind if I go out with her brother? Ugh, why do I already think of things like this? I'm not there yet... Anyway... I think I just need some sleep right now, nothing more. If I manage to actually fall asleep once I'll be home and in my bed… It promises to be a long night...

[straykidsworldwild]

Little aesthetic ✨

[straykidsworldwild]

More than a team, a family❤️