#Henry Cavill x Original Female Character

[viking-raider]

Love At First Sight > Part One

Summary-> Henry finds himself standing at the altar for the celebrity version of Love at First Sight, where he marries Alexa. Once married, nearly every moment of their new life will be documented for a year.

But the real question is, will they be married at the end of that year?

Pairing-> Henry Cavill/OFC (Alexa)

Word Count-> 9.6k

Warnings-> PG: Arranged Marriage, Language, Banter, Alcohol

Inspiration-> Nick and Vanessa Lachey's Love is Blind on Netflix.

Author’s Note-> The correct post! Hopefully the next parts won't so long. Not doing a lo of warning. But there's not many to do. I hope you enjoy! Line divider by @FIREFLY-GRAPHICS!

-> If you would like to get notifications for my writing! Just follow my Tag List blog, @VIKING-RAIDER-TAGLIST as well as my @VIKING-RAIDER-LIBRARY and turn on the notifications for it! It’s that easy!’

–The Wedding–

Henry was terrified as he paced his dressing room, his shaking hands fiddling with the buttons of his suit jacket. He was dressed to the nines, in a dark blue, three-piece suit with a charcoal, button down dress shirt and black tie, sporting thin gold stripes. He glanced at himself in the mirror for the millionth time, seeing his neatly brushed curls that he'd cut the afternoon before in preparation for the event, and the smoothness of his cheeks, lightly adorned with his sandalwood aftershave.

“God, what have I gotten myself into?” He fretted, biting his bottom lip as he turned on the heels of his shining, black dress shoes, to pace the length of the room again. “Marrying someone, I don't know, with the world watching, then having our every moment followed afterward for the next year.” He felt his heart thunder harder.

Henry's agent had come to him, saying that a casting agent for a show about celebrities who marry each other, at first sight, on the altar, after the show's team of matchmakers, therapists, relationship experts and host of other people match them with each other. Once married, a small film crew would follow them around for a year, to see if they would stay married or divorce. At first, Henry declined the offer, four or five times. But, when his agent came back to him with the show's last offer, a week before his thirty-eighth birthday, Henry had been in a mood, feeling his 'clock' ticking on finding a wife on his own, after so many failed relationships, and starting a family.

So, he had impulsively said yes.

Now, eight months later, Henry was dressed in his wedding suit, waiting to be taken out to the altar so he could meet his future wife. Only knowing her first name, Alexa. He had tried to think of all the famous 'Alexa's' he knew, that had the potential to be paired with him, based on the criteria they'd given him. Such as not marrying him to a woman more than ten years his junior, but there were very few and he wasn't allowed to contact them to ask.

There was a soft knock on his door and Henry paused, turning as it opened and the crew member taking care of him popped their head in.

“We're ready for you, Mr. Cavill.” He smiled at Henry, giving him a warm and encouraging smile.

“Right.” Henry smiled back, trying to exude a calmness, following him out.

The crew member directed Henry to the stage, where they had set up the gorgeous altar, motioning to Henry's mark by the Humanist Chaplain, Preston Larson, who also offered a smile and slight nod.

“How are you?” He asked, in a low voice.

“Nervous.” Henry chuckled, smirking at him.

“I would be shocked, if you weren't!” Preston laughed back, reaching out to rest his hand on Henry's shoulder. “But it'll be great.” He told him, hoping to instill some confidence in him.

“I hope so.” Henry mumbled, taking a deep breath, his eyes moving towards the French doors he'd come through, watching the crew close them, signaling that things were starting to really progress and the moment of no return had come.

The assistant director behind the camera signaled and the wedding music started, sending Henry's heart into his throat. Everything he had been worrying over and thinking about for the last eight months rushed him. Who is she? What did she do for a living and how would it interact with his career as an actor? What did she look like? Would they get along and like each other? Or would they end up hating each other? They both had already signed a contract that stated they couldn't divorce or separate, until the one year mark, for the benefit of the show's content, and obviously the ratings. They could live apart, but that was about it. They would still be obligated to see each other for filming, however.

It would be a draw to see them struggle and argue, or just be cold and ignore one another.

The double doors opened and Henry felt his back straighten, his cerulean eyes widening a fraction as his soon-to-be wife appeared around the corner to stand in the doorway. He felt his thundering heart skip a beat and pause. He vaguely recognized her as one of the many 'Alexa's' he had looked up. She was Alexa Forsberg, a thirty year old musician from Norway. Alexa and her band were quite accomplished, having numerous albums and singles out, topping charts and going platinum. Henry was sure he even had a few of their songs on his Spotify playlist.

He thought she looked utterly gorgeous in her dress, as well. She was wearing an elegant lace, fit and flare, applique on tulle dress, that had a beaded and sheer illusion adorned with thin beaded spaghetti straps and a sweetheart neckline. Its finishes were a lace up back closure, matching lace embellished hem and a chapel length train. Her snow-white hair flowed down her back, but was adorned with beautiful braids. He also noticed her left arm, from the top of her shoulder to the crease of her elbow, was tattooed.

Alexa's nervous expression turned to one of surprise, seeing Henry standing at the altar, awaiting her. Of all the people she considered meeting at the altar, the amazing and handsome Henry Cavill was not on Alexa's list. Long or short. She figured he would have women climbing all over him, that he'd have someone in his life.

Seems not. She thought, slowly making her way towards the Brit, manic butterflies swarming her stomach.

Henry instinctively reached a hand out to her, as she reached him, momentarily forgetting the rolling cameras and the promotion photographers that were on them. Alexa smiled and took Henry's hand, feeling the gentle, but strong grasp he had on hers, the signet ring on his pinky cooling her heated skin. He smiled down at her, his blue orbs glittering in the lights, Alexa's knees formed into jelly as she stared up at him, feeling all of his attention on her, and only on her.

“Hi.” Henry greeted her quietly, feeling a jitter of another kind.

“Hi.” Alexa replied, grinning and shyly biting her bottom lip. “It's nice to meet you.” She giggled softly, blushing.

He laughed, his head bowing forward slightly. “It's great to meet you too.”

“Shall we?” Preston gently interrupted, smiling between the two of them.

Clearing his throat, Henry helped guide Alexa up onto the raised altar, before joining her. “I'm ready, if she is.”

Alexa took a deep breath and nodded. “I'm ready.” She said, smiling over at Henry.

Reaching over again, Henry took her hand and gave it a squeeze, knowing that they both were in this weird and strange situation together, wanting her to know he was there, even though they just met. Preston looked between them, sensing a bond forming between them, a rare occurrence on the already four complete seasons of the show. He had a small suspicion that Alexa and Henry could be one of the few successes.

“Today, Henry and Alexa, before I marry you today, it is my duty, before God, to remind you of the solemn and binding character of the vows you are about to take.” Preston declared, reciting from the small black book in his hands, before casting his kind, hazel eyes to Henry. “Henry Cavill, do you take Alexa Forsberg, to be your wife and do you promise to stay true to her, as long as both of you shall live?”

A small lump began to form in Henry's throat, before he felt the light pressure of Alexa's hand, it filled him with the courage and calm he needed, on the outside. “I do.” He nodded, glancing down at her, the smile on his lips widening, upon seeing hers.

Preston smiled at them both. “And Alexa, do you take Henry, to be your husband, will you honor and cherish him, as long as you both shall live?” He asked her, seeing a shy and nervous sparkle in her icy-blue eyes as she nodded.

“I do.” She answered, sounding positive.

“Do either of you have anything to say?” Preston asked, glancing between them.

“I know this is unconventional and we only just met,” Henry spoke up, biting his lip and glancing down at their joined hands. “But I promise to do right by you.” He swore, glancing back into her eyes.

Alexa melted, feeling the weight of his words. “I have all faith in you.” She replied, squeezing his hand. “And in us.”

Preston closed his book, hugging it to his chest as he regarded them. “Henry and Alexa, it gives me great pleasure to declare that you are legally husband and wife.” He announced, clapping.

It was a mindless impulse that caused Henry to carefully cup one side of Alexa's face in his large palm and lean in to kiss her. Not catching himself, until he felt his lips on hers and her momentary hesitation, before returning it. Pulling away, Henry took her hand again and they walked down the aisle, back towards the French doors and backstage, where they would get a little alone together, before doing interviews. After that, they'd be able to change out of their wedding outfits, so they could leave and head towards the airport, where they would fly to their destination honeymoon.

Which, at the moment, neither of them

They made it into the dressing room that connected theirs, with Henry's on the left and Alexa's on the right. It was decorated with roses and rose petals, a bottle of champagne on ice with two champagne glasses, their silver stems curved, so they formed a heart when side by side. Mr. Henry Cavill, Groom, engraved on one and Mrs. Alexa Cavill, Bride, engraved on the other.

Seeing the glasses solidified the situation even more to them.

“I'm sorry about kissing you.” Henry blurted out, carding a hand through his hair.

Alexa giggled, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink, her lips still tingled from the contact. “It's more than all right, Henry.” She assured him, moving over to take a seat and slip off the cut-out heels she was wearing. “I'm sure it's something we'll be doing more of.” She commented, looking up at him.

“True.” He nodded, moving towards the bubbly. “Are you thirsty?” He asked, motioning to it.

“I am.”

Peeling the gold foil off, Henry carefully popped the cork and poured her a half-glass, handing it over, before pouring himself one. “Can I ask, why did you decide to do this?” He inquired, taking a sip and moving to sit across from her.

Alexa blushed again and looked at her engraved name, considering his question for a moment. “I don't know.” She finally answered, her brow creasing as she searched for a better explanation. “Almost all of my brothers are married.” She said, finally taking a drink of champagne, enjoying the dry crispness. “The ones that aren't are either engaged or have kids. Then again,-” She laughed, shaking her head. “I say, almost, like two of them are old enough.”

“Wait.” Henry shook his head, confused. “How many siblings do you have?”

“Oh!” She smirked over at him, leaning back in her chair. “You have quite the gauntlet ahead of you. My parents had eight kids. Seven of which are all boys. Minus myself, obviously. I'm dead center, at number six, with my twin brother, Jakob.”

“Christ alive!” Henry gasped, eyes wide. “And I thought I had a lot of brothers, at four. Who's the oldest and youngest?”

“My brother, Erik, is the oldest. He's forty-four, and the youngest is Einar, who just turned eight.” She informed him, a fond smile on her face. “I can recite everyone else's names for you later.” She giggled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“You'll probably have to tell me a couple times, till I meet them.” Henry laughed back.

“True.” She nodded, amused. “But, I figured I should probably get into a relationship, before Einar beats me to it, and this came up. So, I thought, what's the worst that could happen? A divorce lawyer?” She quipped, but saw a glimpse of light in Henry's eye, telling her he didn't find it quite as funny. “Well, it can't go any worse than my previous relationship. How about you?”

Henry pressed his lips together and stared into his champagne, his shoulders stiff for a moment. “I was engaged once before, when I was in my late twenties, but it didn't work out.” He explained quietly, a sore strain in his voice. “I figured I would be married and have, at least, one kid by now. Yet,-” He heaved a heavy sigh, biting his lip. “Well, I don't. I originally turned the show down a couple times. But, as the thought of hitting forty soon, and not having either of those things, or one of them, hit me. I figured this was, sort of, my last chance at getting that dream, of having what my brothers have.”

He looked over at her, his brow creased and his eyes troubled and slightly glassy. “Do you want kids?” He asked, a worried bubble in his stomach, realizing Alexa could possibly not want to have children.

“I do.” She nodded, honestly, feeling the urge to get up and soothe him. “I'd like, at least, two.” She told him something never talked to anyone about her dream of children before. “Having an only child, being from a large family, is just an odd feeling and it doesn't seem right, knowing the bond siblings give each other.”

Henry felt a tightness that had wrapped around his chest, like a rubber band, snap with relief. “I feel the same way.” He smiled, licking his lips.

“So, where do you think they're sending us on our honeymoon?” Alexa asked, cocking a brow at the black gift box, wrapped in a deep-red satin ribbon-bow.

“Hopefully somewhere warm.” Henry laughed, remembering the pouring rain as he hurried out of the car to get into the building several hours before. Setting his glass aside and picking the box up, he balanced it in his palm, before carefully tugging the bow free and opening the lid.

Setting the lid on the table beside his champagne, Henry reached inside the box and pulled out a card with two plane tickets. “Looks like we'll be spending our two week long honeymoon at a sweet, little villa, in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.”

“Ooo.” Alexa cooed, finishing off her drink. “I haven't been to Costa Rica in a long time.”

“I've never been to Costa Rica.” Henry commented, setting the tickets aside.

“It's beautiful.” She smiled, fondly. “I'm sure you'll love it.”

“I'm sure I will.” He replied, smiling back at her, holding her eyes and felt a bubble and spark in the pit of his stomach, before shifting his gaze to her tattooed arm. He'd never dated a woman so heavily tattooed before, he did have a few exes with one or two in discreet places, but nothing like Alexa's half sleeve.

“Does my sleeve bother you?” Alexa asked, following his eyes.

Henry started, blinking rapidly to try and clear any expression that came across as disapproval or as if it would prevent him from being attracted to her. Which he was. “No!” He blurted out, quickly. “God, no.” He said, in a more natural tone. “It's just I've never been with a woman with such an intricate tattoo before. Two girlfriends I've dated that had tattoos, had them on their ankles. A butterfly and a little, blue heart.”

“This isn't my only tattoo.” Alexa chuckled at him, an amused and playful light in her blue eyes, holding her arms out to him, showing him the tattoos there.

Tattooed on the inside of her left wrist was a heart and pentagram combination, forming a Heartagram, the logo of the Finnish band, HIM. While on right arm, just below her elbow, on the inside, was an infinity symbol with a semicolon interrupting one side of the loop.

“I have a few other tattoos, one is on my back. It's Family, written in Ogham, or Middle Irish, surrounded by my family's zodiac constellations.” She explained to him, unconsciously reaching back to touch the general area where it was. “And what is actually my biggest, and arguably my most important, tattoo is actually on my side.” Alexa touched her left side, biting her lip and hoping she wasn't putting Henry off. “But it sort of branches out to my back and stomach.”

“What's that one?” Henry asked, curious.

“It's the tree of life, Yggdrasil.” She told him, with a sort of pride. “But it's also sort of combined with a Cherry Blossom tree. I love Cherry Blossom trees.” She confessed to him, beaming. “I suffer, I'll tell you this now, from chronic depression, and have since I was a kid. Winter, while has been, ironically, my favorite season, doesn't do wonders for my depression, with the dark and gloominess. But, there's always been this cool sweet spot to it, for me, because outside my flat, there are three Cherry Blossom trees. They're early blooming trees. They're sorta known for being the first sign of Spring being heralded in, and Winter ending.”

“Seeing those teeny, delicate flowers blooming, while everything is still rainy or snowy and dark, right outside my window, is such a breath of fresh air. Like, they're helping me out of my own winter.”

Henry softly nodded, his expression understanding and empathetic. “I can relate to that.”

“Yeah.” She mumbled, looking into her empty glass. “Anyway, I digress! My tattoo is Yggdrasil, but I have Cherry blossom flowers on the branches, with the leaves. The leaves and blossoms mean something, themselves. I add a leave for a person I've lost in my life, with their initials inside of it. While, with the cherry blossoms, I add a blossom for someone that's made an impact on my life. I don't have one for all of my family, I think that would clutter the entire tree.” She giggled, twisting the end of one of her braids. “But, I do have leaves and blossoms for my parents, siblings and grandparents. As well as, one of my uncles.”

“That's very deep.” Henry observed, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees, wondering if one day he'd have the honor to be one of the Cherry Blossoms.

“Have you ever considered getting a tattoo?” Alexa asked, cocking her head at him. “I know as an actor, it can be a pain for a wardrobe to cover up, if need be.”

“Yeah, they can be quite cross about things like that.” He laughed, nodding his head. “But, yeah, I have actually considered it. Especially, there's a company that can make tattoo ink from cremated ashes.” He explained to her, chewing on the inside of his lip. “I've thought about, when the time comes, to turn some of Kal's ashes into ink and get some sort of tattoo to honor him.”

“That would be so super sweet.” She smiled, warmed that Henry was so devoted to his dog.

“So, what did your parents think about you coming on this show, to marry some random celebrity?” Henry asked, smirking at her.

Alexa laughed, shaking her head with amusement, recalling her family's reaction to her telling them she would be doing the show. “They weren't thrilled. My brothers think I'm crazy and my parents think I should be finding a guy the traditional way. How about yours?”

“They were surprised, but they're supporting me.” He replied, looking down between his feet. “Especially if I end up happy.”

“Well,” Alexa lifted her glass to him. “Here's to us, hopefully, ending up happy together.” She smiled, holding his eye with an expression that told Henry she was being genuine.

“To us being happy together.” He echoed, raising his glass, gently touching their rims together.

There was a knock on the door and a crew member popped into the room, looking between Alexa and Henry, as if expecting to find them either sucking face, being cold and awkward with each other or arguing. But his face changed to one of pleasant surprise, finding them sitting easily with each other, enjoying the bubbly.

“We're ready to start the interviews.” He informed them. “Who wants to go first?”

“Why don't you go first?” Henry suggested, looking at Alexa. “That way, you have more time to keep your heels off.” He said, looking down at her feet, seeing the rosy marks from the heels straps pressing into her feet and the slight swelling, puffiness.

“Thanks.” She smiled at him, grateful for the gesture, since her feet were starting to kill her, standing and following the crew member out of the room and down the hall, where they had a little room set up for the interviews.

Henry got up and poured himself a fresh glass of champagne, before crossing over to his dressing room, while he waited for his wife to return.

– Alexa’s Interview –

Alexa got comfortable on the seat in front of the black and red, damask backdrop they were using to narrow the room and keep the focus on her, with no distractions in the background. She looked towards the camera, watching the crew fuss around behind it and smiled at the assistant director, Riah, who sat perched on a stool, a thick binder in her lap with Alexa and Henry's names on the front.

“How are you feeling?” Riah asked, off camera.

“I feel really good.” Alexa smiled, despite feeling the glass of champagne she had with Henry.

“I'm glad.” Riah smiled, nodding her head, before looking over her shoulder. “Are we ready?” She asked the cameraman, who mumbled something to her. “Great, here we go!”

The light on the camera popped on, signaling it was rolling and Alexa took a deep breath, readying herself for the questions Riah was about to fire at her.

“So, Alexa, you just got married, at first sight, to Man of Steel and The Witcher himself, Henry Cavill!” Riah grinned, nodding her head, like she was trying to instill a bubbly and happy energy into Alexa. “How does it feel?”

“It feels great and surreal!” Alexa answered, blushing softly and giggling. “Of all the people I thought I'd see at the altar, Superman wasn't it. But I'm excited to get to know him, as my husband.”

“Are there any reservations about getting married to a stranger?”

Alexa's brow creased for a moment. “I think to have some concerns would only be natural, in a situation like this. Henry and I have never crossed paths in life before, so we don't know anything about each other. We're bound to find something about the other that creates a conflict or a stress on the marriage. I just really hope, whatever it is, we can work through that.”

Riah grinned at Alexa, giving her a devilish look. “Are there any feelings of attraction going on with you? Do you feel yourself already falling for him?”

“I think you'd be crazy, not to be attracted to him!” Alexa chuckled, smiling. “He's incredibly handsome and--” She paused, licking and biting her lip for a moment. “Yeah, I am feeling a stir of something for Henry. Whether or not, it'll develop into a full blown attraction and love, I think is, maybe, a little too early to say.”

“The two of you just got to spend a little private time together, what was it like?”

“It was very pleasant. He's such an easy person to be around. I feel that I could be myself around him and that I'll be able to trust him. Henry is a real gentleman and I think he'll make a great husband.”

“Do you think you'll be sharing a bed with him, when you arrive on your honeymoon in a couple hours?”

Alexa was caught off guard with her question, not having thought that far into the future yet. “I don't know.” She squeaked, throat tight. “Maybe. We'll have to see when we get to our destination and what the mood is like.”

“What Henry is feeling on the subject.”

– Henry’s Interview –

The wood of the chair was still warm under Henry, from Alexa sitting on it not moments before. He felt oddly at ease in front of the camera, supposing it was because he spent so much time before one for his job. But he felt the gentle simmer of nerves beneath his calm, knowing he and Alexa would be leaving the venue soon for the airport, so they could start their honeymoon. He kept thinking about what it would be like to live with her and if they would manage it.

“Henry, how does it feel to be a married man?” Riah asked, beaming at him as the camera started to roll. “I know you mentioned in several previous interviews, it was a dream for you.”

A startled expression came over Henry's face, not expecting her to bring it up. “It's-uh, it's going great so far! Alexa is very kind and beautiful. I look forward to spending more time with her and learning more about her, to develop our marriage.”

“Have you talked about a living situation yet?”

“Um, no. We haven't spoken about that, quite yet. We just talked about general things. How our families felt about us doing the show and kids.” He replied, shifting in his seat.

Riah's brows went up. “You haven't discussed how you're going to live together, but you've talked about having kids?”

“Yeah.” Henry nodded slowly, realizing his mistake. “It came up, when we were talking about our siblings.” He said, trying to recover.

“Do the two of you want kids?” Riah asked, narrowing her eyes at him. “Should the two of you make it through?” She added an edge in her voice.

Henry didn't answer for a second, wishing he could back track. “We both do, yeah. We'll see through.” He said, carding a hand through his hair, awkwardly. “When we do get through our first year together.”

“Are you attracted to her?” Riah inquired, sensing a bit of tension in Henry’s voice.

“There’s something there.” Henry replied, biting the inside of his cheek. “She’s amazingly beautiful and intelligent. We, I think, have started to connect. So, yeah. I think there’s an attraction starting to form with her.”

“You think the two of you will share a bed?”

“At some point, yes.” He nodded, smirking at her, his smooth cheeks warming up. “Whenever Alexa becomes comfortable with it.”

Getting back to his dressing room, Henry let out a hard breath and loosened his tie, relieved that everything was finished. Now, all he had to do was get out of his suit and gather his things, so he could head to the airport for their flight to Costa Rica.

“With my new wife.” He thought aloud, taking a seat on the couch to unlace his shoe and slipped them off, flexing his toes as he set them aside.

He looked up at the door that led to the adjoining room, then across to Alexa’s, where she was no doubt doing the same thing he was. He wondered if they would be going to the airport together or separately. He hoped they’d be going in the same car, it would give them more time together, on top of the time on the plane to their honeymoon spot.

Sighing, he stood up, unbuttoning his jacket and waistcoat, carefully laying them out on the arm of the couch, then took his pants off. He grabbed the duffel bag he’d come with and grabbed his casual clothes, a tan colored pull over with four buttons on the right shoulder and a pair of dark wash, blue jeans, with his favorite pair of worn, brown boots.

Dressed, he neatly put his suit away in its garment bag and tucked his shoes into his bag, Henry slung the duffel bag across his body and crossed the adjoining room. He paused a moment, considering another glass of champagne, but noticed that the two glasses had vanished.

“Alexa?” He called, lightly knocking on her door.

The door opened and Alexa stood before him, she had gotten out of her dress while Henry was in the middle of his interview with Riah. Exchanging it for a pair of black joggers, one leg pushed up to her knee, a blue and yellow, gunge crosshairs symbol on the thigh, with a Stranger Things Hellfire Club raglan t-shirt. Feet bare other than her multi-colored, flowery and retro-striped Bombas socks. Her hair was braided shill, she had uncoiled several and pulled her hair up into a bun, away from her face and off her slender neck, but one of the thin braids hung down and rested against her chest.

“Hey,” She smiled up at him. “I'm almost ready.”

“That's fine.” He assured her, licking his lips and biting the inside of his cheek, even out of her dress, he found her beautiful. “I was just wondering, if you had grabbed our champagne glasses?” He asked, twisting his upper body towards the table.

“Oh!” She squeaked, blushing with guilt. “I did. I'm sorry.” She nodded, looking down at her feet.

Henry grinned down at her, touched and amused. “It's all right.” He reassured her, gently. “I was just wondering where they went, that's all.”

Alexa looked up at him, biting the corner of her lip. “Do you want yours?” She asked, quietly.

“I'm positive, it's in good keeping with you, Alexa.” He told her sweetly, daring to reach out and tuck her free braid behind her ear. “I'm ready, when you are. No rush, love.” He added, moving away to lounge in the shared room, pulling his phone out, to open the Cavill family WhatsApp group chat.

Henry: I'm officially a married man!

Charlie: Congratulations! Wish we could have been there.

Piers: Cheers, little brother! Can't wait to meet her. What's her name?

Mum: Congratulations, Henry. Your father and I are happy for you.

Henry: Thanks all. It means a lot to me. Her name is Alexa, and I can't wait to introduce her to you all. We're headed off to Costa Rica on our honeymoon, for two weeks. After that, we should be off to meeting family and friends.

Simon: Can you take pictures and share them?

Henry: We can take photos, but there's no sharing any. They want us to get through the honeymoon first. That way, if there's any trouble between us, there's no raging media posting or anything. It also keeps production under wraps a little bit longer. The production for the show will be announcing the show and who's on it after our honeymoon. Since we're celebrities, it's hard to keep something like this secret for long.

Charlie: That makes logical sense.

Henry: Yeah. Once that NDA clears, I'll send you guys photos of her. She's really beautiful.

“I'm ready to go, Henry.” Alexa said, coming into the room, her backpack over one shoulder and dress draped over her arm.

“Great.” He smiled, standing up and pocketing his phone. “Let's hit it.” He said, heading for the door going out into the hallway, but paused. “They might be waiting for us out there.” He told her, not wanting her to feel ambushed.

“True.” She nodded, taking a deep breath, readying herself.

Nodding back at her, Henry opened the door and stepped into the hall, sure enough, down the hall a short way was the cameraman, his camera resting on his shoulder and pointing up their direction. He hit record as soon as he saw Henry appear, followed by Alexa. The exit was exactly behind the cameraman, forcing them to walk in front of him, while he strode backwards. Henry reached behind him and felt Alexa grab his hand, squeezing it hard as she pressed closer to his back.

“Are you excited to relax in Costa Rica?” She asked, looking up at the back of his head.

“I am.” He smiled at her over his shoulder. “It's been a little while since I've had a vacation from work.” He admitted, remembering the last break from work he had, back in 2018, when he took his brothers and sisters-in-law to Fiji. “I look forward to relaxing there with you as well.” He added an impish twinkle in his blue eyes.

Alexa giggled. “You're going to be a handful.”

“To say the least.” He chuckled back, pausing to shove the exit door open and allow her to go ahead of him, then followed her to the awaiting car the show had to take them to the airport.

The cameraman filmed them putting their things into the car's trunk, then got into the back and drove away.

“How long will it take us to get there from here?” Alexa asked, resting back in her seat. “Do you know?”

“Almost nine hours.” Henry answered, pulling the tickets out of his jacket pocket. “But it looks to be a private jet. So we should be nice and comfortable.”

“Mmm, that's nice of them.” She commented, having expected first class on a flight.

“It is.” He agreed, tucking the tickets back into his pocket, chewing on his bottom lip as he thought about getting on the plane, his leg bouncing anxiously.

The ride was quiet, but it wasn't an awkward silence, the two of them watching the rain patter against the dark tinted windows. Their shoulders gently rested together, in an unconscious reminder that the other was there. As the airport came into view, Alexa leaned forward and unzipped a compartment of her backpack, pulling out a black beanie and secured her bag closed again. Henry watched her pull the cute, almost oversized, beanie over her head, a pair of black horns sticking up at the top.

“What?” She frowned over at him, the beanie pulled lower on her forehead.

Henry grinned even more. “You looked adorable with that beanie on.” He told her, lightly flicking one of the horns.

“Oh.” She blushed, biting her lip and scrunching her shoulders. “It's one of my favorite beanies.” She admitted to him. “One of my brothers got it for me, for my birthday a couple years ago..”

“I like it.” Henry said, fussing with his green, Royal Marines Commando hoodie for a moment, as the car pulled up to the doors of the airport, before he got out and moved around the car, opening her door for her.

“Thank you.” Alexa grinned, slipping out into the light rain, securing her bag over her shoulders, before following Henry to the back to grab her dress from the boot.

She watched him pause to pull a worn and faded brown Kansas City Chiefs hat out and secure it on his head, tugging it low over his blue eyes. Alexa understood what he was doing. As much as Henry was using the hat to shield himself from the rain, momentarily, he was using it to hide his face and hopefully keep any potential fans and paparazzi from spotting him. Drawing attention to him and Alexa being together, spreading word through social media that something was up.

“Thank you.” Henry said to their chauffeur, extending his hand to the man, who shook it with an appreciative nod.

Alexa had a gentle smile on her face at the gesture, seeing how kind and much of a gentleman her new husband was. Turning his attention back to Alexa, he extended his hand to her, which she took, with no hesitation, despite all others she felt inside of her. She allowed Henry to guide her through the double-automatic doors and into the hustle and bustle of Heathrow Airport. Biting her lip, she moved a little closer to Henry, who easily weaved a path through the throng of people coming from or going to their boarding gate, carrying or wheeling their luggage.

“You seem to know where you're going.” She pointed out to Henry.

“I've flown out of this airport a few times by private jet.” Henry replied, heading almost straight for security, that would get them through to the VIP area and their terminal.

When they got through security, their jet's crew hadn't arrived yet, so they slipped into the VIP bar across from it to wait. Henry ordered a whiskey on the rocks and Alexa asked for a Dr. Pepper. It was as she sipped at it, that she noticed Henry only grasped the glass in his hand, thumbing the rim and shaking his leg, while his vivid cerulean eyes were distant and cloudy.

“Henry.” She said softly, cocking her head at him, slightly.

“Hm?” He hummed back, only turning his head a fraction in her direction, his eyes never focusing.

“You're not--” Alexa laid her hand on his wrist. “You don't have flight anxiety, do you?” She questioned, concerned by the sudden realization.

Henry cleared his throat hard, finally picking his drink up and taking a deep gulp of the sharp, honey-amber liquid. “I do.” He admitted, with a straight tone. “It's usually not so bad, because I have my dog, Kal.”

Licking her lips, Alexa shifted beside him, her alarm in her eyes, concerned for Henry. “What can I do to help?” She asked, closing her hand around his wrist, trying to be reassuring.

“I don't know.” He answered, finishing his whiskey off.

“What does Kal do for you?” She inquired, rubbing the inside of his arm.

Henry floundered at her question.

Kal was Henry's best friend. He had the American Akita, since he was just a little pup, before his ears could stand up on their own. What very few knew about Kal, was he was a registered Emotional Support animal. For Henry's anxiety, not just on planes. But he helped best, when Henry had to fly. He had wished to bring Kal with him, but had been asked not to, by the production of the show, so he wasn't a distraction on his and Alexa's big day, then their honeymoon. Once that was over, he was more than welcome to be around them.

But he couldn't put to words how Kal actually helped him get through his anxiety from take-off to landing. Just having the Bear close to him, put Henry at ease, like a warm security blanket out of the dryer. So, to that point, he wasn't sure how Alexa could help him keep it under control, during the nearly nine hours they'd be on the jet.

“Have you ever tried surfing before?” Alexa asked, leaning against him.

Henry blinked, confused by the sudden change in conversation. “No, I haven't.” He answered, looking over at her.

“Mm.” She smiled up at him. “When we get to Costa Rica, I want to teach you how to surf.” She said, resting her chin on the top of his shoulder. “So, I hope you have a good sense of balance.”

“Is that so?” He answered, starting to smile uneasily at her. “I think I have pretty good balance. I look forward to seeing you try. Have you ever been scuba-diving?” He asked, feeling the hot knot in his stomach start to relax.

“I've done it once or twice.” She nodded, wrapping her arms around his thick one.

“We'll have to do it while we're there.” He told her, reaching up to brush his fingertips across her cheek.

“I'd really like that.” Alexa beamed, tilting her head lightly into his touch. “I looked up some things to do in Costa Rica, while you were doing your interview.”

“Did you?” Henry cooed, his anxiety down to a manageable level. “Like what?”

“There's some great nature walks, with amazing waterfalls and hot springs, or you can go whale watching, zip-lining and see the island's wildlife. Obviously, there's stuffing your face with the local food.” She rattled off the things she remembered from the website she'd checked, while waiting for Henry to come back from his one-on-one interview.

“The hot springs sound nice.” He commented, cocking an interested brow. “These old, sore muscles could use a nice spa day.”

Alexa giggled at him, shaking her head. “You're not old, Cavill.”

“I'm not young either, Cavill.” He teased back, looking into her eyes.

“Oh,” She sighed, biting the inside of her bottom lip and blinking slowly. “I highly doubt it slows you down any.”

Henry's throat bobbed and a silent shiver ran down his back, realizing she was flirting with him. Seeing the way her eyes darkened and pupils dilated, caused the forming flame in the pit of his stomach to grow in warmth.

“Mr. and Mrs. Cavill, your flight crew are aboard the jet and ready for you.” An attendant announced, as she came up to their table.

“Great, thank you.” Alexa smiled up at her, feeling the muscles of Henry's arm tense up again. “We'll be right there.” She nodded, hoping the attendant would return to station, so she could focus on getting Henry to relax again.

Smiling at the two of you, she turned and exited the VIP bar, Alexa looked to Henry, resting her hand on his board back and scooting closer to him.

“Breathe.” She whispered softly.

“I'm all right.” Henry muttered back, but still took a slow, deep breath. “I'll be all right.” He repeated, nodding his head and sliding out of their booth.

Alexa gave him a gentle look as they made their way to their gate, handing over their tickets and finally boarding the exceptional jet. Henry dropped his bag by one of the seats and turned towards the bathroom, halfway towards the back of the plane. She wished she could do more, as she set her bag down and slid into her seat. Drumming her fingers against the table in front of her, Alexa tried thinking of something she could do that would distract Henry.

Even for a little while.

An idea hit her and she leaned sideways for her bag, digging through it to pull out her Switch and the portable tablet monitor she had for it. Alexa had finished setting it up just as Henry came back from the bathroom and sat down across from her.

“I challenge you.” She said, sliding the blue controller across the table to him.

“To what?” He replied, catching it before it slid off the edge.

“Mario Kart Deluxe 8.” Alexa grinned, turning the game on. “Best winner, five out of ten, decides what we're eating for dinner.”

Henry stared at her for a long moment, he knew what she was trying to do and appreciated it. He felt the bubble of his competitiveness form in his stomach, pulling a smile across his face as he clutched the controller in both hands and rested back in his seat.

“You're on.” He cooed, confidently. “I hope you like curry.” He teased, picking his driver.

“Bowser.” Alexa giggled, nodding her head. “An interesting pick.”

“Who are you going to pick? Princess Peach or Daisy?” Henry teased back, wiggling his eyebrows at her.

“Ha!” Alexa laughed, scornfully, before picking Shy Guy. “Shy Guy all the way, baby!”

“You're going to get your butt kicked, love.” Henry tisked, watching her pick a track and readied himself, watching the countdown from the monitor Alexa had positioned between them. “Do you play any other games?” He asked, just as the counter finished and their drivers shot across the starting line.

“I have a load of other games on Switch.” Alexa answered, eyes laser focused on the screen, determined not to let Henry distract her.

“Anything good?”

“Define good?” She asked, cocking an eye at her driver.

Henry chuckled, smirking. “What do you have?”

“You're trying to distract me, Henry.” She commented, shaking her head. “It's not going to work.”

“I assure you, my intentions are pure.” He smirked, tensing for a moment as the track parted and Bowser jumped the gap, colliding with a clear spinning, but iridescent, box with a question mark on it. “Ooo, I got a banana peel. You best watch out!” He warned her, bouncing his brows at her.

“Oh, just a peel? I picked up a shell a lap back.” Alexa replied coolly, but her eyes were mischievous. “I have Zelda, Animal Crossing, a couple Mario Karts, Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, which is one of my favorites. I used to play the original Spyros on the first PlayStation.”

“Showing your age.” Henry teased, playfully.

“I know, right!” She giggled, not offended. “Anyway, I also have Hollow Knight. Oh, and a game called Spiritfarer! Ugh, that game is amazing, but it is an emotional trauma!”

“How is it 'emotional trauma'?” He huffed, frowning over at her for a second.

“The game starts with you playing Stella, who takes over the job of Spiritfarer from Charon.” She began to explain, but paused, seeing Henry's Bowser up ahead of her Shy Guy and focused to catch up to him, the hint of a smile making the corner of mouth twitch, as she primed the turtle shell she'd been hoarding.

“Don't you dare!” Henry warned her, straightening up in his seat, eyeing the glowing blue, speed-boost stripe up ahead of them, then glanced at the banana peel he was sitting on. He didn't want to use it. He was hoping to use it as a last-ditch effort, if need be, to toss out at the finish line, in an attempt to stop her from winning.

“Or what?” She huffed, amused. “Are you going to toss your peel at me?” She taunted him, sending out her shell.

“Shit!” He barked under his breath, swerving in an attempt to avoid it.

“Use those reflexes, Superman!” Alexa laughed, smirking at Henry's maneuvers.

“What about yours!” Henry asked back, tossing out the peel.

Alexa gasped, knowing it was too late. “A cruel fate!” She sighed, watching Shy Guy spin out into the barriers.

Alexa yawned as she exited the jet with Henry, it was almost one in the morning. He looked back over his shoulder at her and smirked, shouldering both their bags.

“I told you, you should have taken a nap.” He cooed, having dozed for a few hours, after they played a couple games together on her Switch.

“Mmm.” Alexa hummed back at him, she had continued to play on her Switch, too worried about Henry's anxiety coming back to fall asleep. “I'm starving though. What are we eating, oh Master of the Mario Kart?”

Henry let out a barking laugh, his wide shoulders shaking with its mirth. He had won seven of their ten games, declaring himself Master of Mario Kart. “I have no idea what they have open at one am, but the Villa will probably have something.”

“Odin, I hope.” She sighed, stifling another yawn.

They got out of the airport and found a car waiting for them.

“Welcome to Tamarindo, Costa Rica, Mr. and Mrs. Cavill.” The driver greeted them, opening the back door.

“Thank you.” Henry nodded, motioning for Alexa to slide in first. “Do you know anything about our Villa?”

“I do, Mr. Cavill.” The driver replied, nodding back.

“Is there any room service or way to get food, this late?” Henry inquired, glancing into the car, licking his lips. “My wife,” A small lump formed around the word, it felt so strange for him to say. “Is quite famished.”

“The Villa does room service, with a twenty-four hour kitchen; should anything strike your fancy in the middle of the night.” The driver assured him, with a soft smile.

“Excellent, thank you so much.” Henry smiled, relieved, before getting in beside Alexa. “We're in luck. The Villa has all day room service, so we can order something to eat, when we arrive.”

“Thank Odin.” Alexa hummed, sighing softly, her blue eyes heavily half-lidded.

Henry smirked at her, gently wrapping a thick arm around her shoulders and pulled her into his side, coaxing her head against his shoulder. Alexa didn't protest, nuzzling and curling up against the warmth of Henry's body with a soft moan, losing the battle with her eyes. He gulped, feeling her body grow heavy, knowing she would likely fall asleep long before they reached their destination, forty minutes away.

“We've arrived at the La Villa de Playa, Mr. Cavill.” The Driver whispered, looking through the rear-view mirror and into the back seat, seeing that Alexa was out cold.

Henry looked out into the darkness on the other side of his window, to a sweet, little one-story, white stucco building. It was brightly lit and nestled in the palms, as well as mango, lemon and coconut trees. A short walk to a beautiful, private, white sand beach, to which Henry could hear the crashing waves, even from inside the car. He couldn't wait to explore the property and island with Alexa.

“Thanks for getting us here.” He said, before the driver stepped out to open the door for him, offering to take their bags, so Henry could carefully maneuver Alexa out of the car, hoisting her up into his arms, bridal-style, and turning toward the front door.

“Allow me.” The chauffeur offered, pulling the envelope taped to the door down and opening it, ignoring the little card inside for the key and slotting it into the lock, opening it for Henry and setting their things just inside the door. “Have a good evening and congratulations.”

“Thank you.” Henry mouthed, nodding.

Smiling softly, the chauffeur returned to his car and left Alexa and Henry to themselves.

Looking at his slumbering wife, Henry smiled gently at her. “Welcome to our villa, my love.” He whispered to her, kissing her forehead, before stepping over the threshold with her and pushing the door closed with his foot.

Henry managed to find the master suite and laid Alexa down on the king sized bed, gingerly pulling off her black, slip-on converse and her beanie, before pulling the folded down blankets over her. Groaning, Henry tugged his hoodie over his head and tossed it in a chair across and sat down on the bench at the foot of the bed, removed his boots, flexing his toes and glanced to the crescent wall of sliding glass windows that went out to a private veranda, a large hanging chair at one side and a glass-bead fire pit on the other.

The loud grumble of his stomach pulled Henry from his thoughts and he stood, padding into the bathroom for a moment. Closing the door to relieve himself, he noticed that the black two-person, whirlpool tub was outside. It was positioned in the center of a little enclosed courtyard, shaded by a wooden pagoda, with a bubbling pond and river rock waterfall behind it.

“I wonder if she likes baths.” He hummed to himself, moving over to wash his hands, then tiptoed out of the master and into the kitchen to see if there was anything in the refrigerator to eat. “I need to get some of my supplements over here.” He commented, jerking open the door, finding a reasonably stocked fridge, but nothing that really peaked his growling stomach's interest.

Snagging a cold bottle of water, Henry found the telephone that allowed him to call for room service and a booklet, neatly organized for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with some desert items, the chef's favorite and the option to customize.

“Kitchen of La Villa de Playa, how may I help you?”

“Yes, this is the Cavill Villa.” Henry answered, frowning down at the menu, balanced on his knee. “I would like three of your chicken Empanadas with some rice and beans.” He ordered, before biting his lip and thinking of Alexa, worried she would wake up hungry. “As well as one of your beef tamales.”

“Of course, Mr. Cavill. We'll have your food done presently.”

“Thank you.” He replied, before putting the phone back on its cradle and carding a hand through his hair, feeling the cool metal of his signet ring.

He looked down at his left hand, his ring finger bare, as was Alexa's. It was to be part of filming, the two of them going out to look for their wedding rings together. His heart skipped and his stomach clenched at the idea of looking at rings. What kind of ring would Alexa want? He remembered the engagement ring he'd proposed to his ex with. It was a simple little thing. He wasn't making the money back then, that he was now. It was white gold, half-carat, cushion shaped diamond, that had cost him just over two grand. She didn't have the best reaction towards it, but at the time she'd said yes to him asking to marry her.

However, they broke up a couple months later.

Sighing, Henry shook the thought from his mind, reminding himself that Alexa wasn't his ex and this relationship wouldn't be the same. He'd do better. He'd be a good husband and prove his worth to Alexa.

Alexa stirred, moaning softly as she woke up, finding herself alone in bed and sat up, frowning into the darkness of the bedroom. “Henry?” She called out, tossing the blankets back and got out of bed in search of her husband. “Hen?” She called again, opening the half closed bedroom door and made her way into the living area, finding Henry sprawled out on the couch with a pillow and blanket.

A smile pulled across her face, seeing his long body stretched out on the short couch, bare feet hanging off the edge, uncovered. She shook her head and detoured into the kitchen, discovering a note from Henry on the island.

I wasn't sure if you'd wake up hungry or not, but I ordered you something to eat. It's in the fridge. -Hen.

“He's so attentive.” Alexa muttered, turning to the fridge and opening it, finding the wrapped plate with her tamale on it.

She found the silverware and perched herself on a stool at the island, digging into her food, moaning at how delicious it was, especially stone cold. Once she was finished eating, she went back into the living room and leaned over Henry, resting her hand on his chiseled chest.

“Henry.” She cooed, looking into his relaxed face, her heart fluttering at how handsome and boyish he looked as he slept, one thick arm flung up over his head. “Henry.” She hummed again, running her hand over his torso, rousing him.

His sleepy blue eyes fluttered open, taking a moment to focus on her. “Are you all right?” He asked, becoming alert.

“I'm fine.” She grinned at him, sweetly. “But why are you out here on the couch?”

“Oh,” He rumbled, licking his lips, brows creasing. “I wasn't sure if you'd want to sleep together and wasn't about to just climb into bed with you, asleep, before we had a discussion about it.” He confessed to her, gulping thickly. “So, I just took the safer option of sleeping on the couch.”

Alexa bit the inside of her lip, touched at his gesture. “I don't mind, if we share a bed together, as long as you don't?” She assured him. “Besides,” She looked him over. “You're not going to be feeling very tip-top, if you sleep on the couch.” She pointed out, smirking.

“No.” Henry sighed, smirking back at her, sitting up with his pillow and blanket.

“Thanks for the food, as well.” Alexa said, as they headed back towards the master.

“Oh, you're welcome.” He answered, perking up a little bit, hearing she'd eaten. “I hope what I got you, was all right?”

“It was great!” She giggled, pulling down the bed's blankets. “I actually love tamales.” She confessed, smiling at him.

“Nailed it, then.” Henry smiled back, moving around the bed.

“Are our bags in here?” Alexa asked, glancing around.

“Uh, yeah.” He nodded, sitting down on the mattress. “I put them in the closet.”

“Cool, I'll be right back.” She said, heading into the walk-in closet.

Henry nodded, then got the bed ready to sleep, looking up as Alexa came back out, in a tank top and a pair of black, Jack Skellington short-shorts. He bit his lip, looking her over, his Adam's apple bobbing in his throat.

“Did you make a pillow wall?” Alexa giggled, sitting on the bed with him, seeing the line of pillows in the middle of the bed, between her and Henry's sides.

“I did.” He nodded, laying down and pulling the blankets over himself.

Alexa laid down with him and grabbed one of the pillows, smacking him in the chest with it. “Are you afraid of your wife's cooties, Henry Cavill?” She teased him, giggling harder at the offended expression he gave her.

“Not married for twenty-four hours and spousal abuse already.” He huffed, grabbing one of the other pillows and whopped her back with it. “And no, I am not afraid of whatever cooties my wife may or may not have.”

“Well then!” Alexa huffed, grabbing the last pillow and tossed it in his face, before moving into the space the pillows had been, their legs touching. “Have my cooties!” She said, burrowing under the blankets.

Henry looked at her, almost hidden in the blankets and smiled. “All right then.” He whispered, turning onto his side to lay facing her. “You can have my cooties too.” He mumbled, draping his arm over her waist and resting his chin on top of her head.

[writersblog20]

A leap of faith

Henry Cavill x reader

Credits to gif maker

Summary: When one cold December morning you took a leap of faith and decided to see the part of the city that you’ve never been before and soon you come to realize how many leaps of faith you needed to take. ( a close-up to two people falling in love)

Warnings: mention of anxiety and hints to a bad mental health, reader drinks alcohol, mention of smut

Words: 4K

Love is a leap of faith

It was getting cold again and that time of the year started to get closer and closer. The city was already carefully decorated with the lights, the trees, the stores, everything screamed Christmas. Even though you just moved to a different country and didn’t know anyone yet, you’ve had the privilege to get to know yourself on a very deep level. Maybe it was the solidarity and peace you’ve discovered that you didn’t feel so alone.

Back in your home country, you’ve felt alone and depressed even though you had friends all around you but now you could see at that there was a lot of drama in your life. You had to get out and had a very deep gut feeling that you needed to leave this place and you were now certain, that you felt all of that for a reason. Even though Christmas was a month and a half away, you didn’t feel lonely. You felt okay and at peace. Maybe even the happiest than you’ve ever been.

You would lie to yourself if peace and solidarity wasn’t all you wanted in life. You were finally okay with yourself and the moment you left your country, that was where your self-love journey started. You still had a long road ahead but you already made it so far.

Today you had peaceful day but woke up very early. You looked at your clock and it was 5 am. You sighed a bit but decided to just get out. If you wanted to, you could take a nap later. You got some comfy yet warm clothes so you could get out. You made some coffee, put your headphones on and listened to some music.

You walked to your window to look down at the city. It was obviously still dark outside but you saw the city still light up. You drank your coffee while staring out of your apartment. You were very lucky with this place. You had enough space. You had a bedroom, a livingroom and a beautiful kitchen. The ceiling was high and it was just absolutely perfect already before you even made it your own little place.

You were a bit in thought and felt slightly anxious for no apparent reason so you decided to have a morning stroll after your coffee. You grabbed your coat, mittens and beanie before walking down.

You stepped out of the building complex and was greeted by snow. You smiled and felt so complete, it was all you ever dreamed off. You got some hot Christmas drink at your local coffeeshop and You made your way through the park and didn’t really come across a lot of people since it was so early. Until there came a dog running over to you. You recognized the dog from somewhere. Like you’ve seen the dog before but couldn’t really place it in your head. You looked around but there was nobody around and the dog just sat there with you. “Are you a friendly dog buddy?” The dog wagged it’s tail and you smiled slightly. You carefully petted the dog and once you noticed that it was okay, you tried searching for a collar and a tag until you heard someone shout “Kal?” You looked at the dog, who was still chilling next to you until the owner came into view.

It was Henry Cavill and you started to slightly panic. You looked around you in disbelieve but tried to gather yourself since he came closer. Kal ran to Henry, who already saw you. “I’m so sorry, he get exited some times.” Henry told you as he walked up to you. “Oh it’s okay, don’t worry about it. I like dogs so it’s just fine.” You told him with a slight giggle. You wanted to punch yourself at how cringy you felt.

Henry smiled with a bit of relief. “Thank you.” there was a silence before Henry spoke up again, seemingly out of a trance. “I’m Henry by the way and this is Kal.” He reached out his hand for you to shake. You shook his hand “Hi, I’m Y/N” you both smiled. “Are you new here?” he asked you all of a sudden and it took you a bit by surprise. “I just… come here often and haven’t seen you around. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude.” He quickly said and scratched his head from embarrassment.

You chuckled “I actually am new here. Just moved here a couple of weeks ago and I’ve never taken a walk this way before.” This time Henry looked surprised. “Oh where did you move from?” He asked you interested. You told him your home country and started chatting about it. “So you haven’t seen everything yet?” he asked you after a while laughing when you confessed that you haven’t seen a lot. You chuckled and shook your head. “Nope.”

“And your friends didn’t offer to take you this way?” you chuckled and shook your head “No, not really.” You haven’t really made friends yet but you choose to keep that for yourself yet. Henry seemed deep in thought while he looked at you. “Eh well, I have to go to work but I’m off around 5. If you’re interested, I know a couple of very good restaurants and the best places around town. I’d love to show you around.” Henry awaited your reaction while you tried to process it. “You obviously don’t have to if you don’t want to.” He added. “No, I’d actually would like that.” You told him, making him smile.

“Can I have your number?” he asked you with a smile and you gave him your phone. He put his number in it and called himself before giving the phone back to you. “I’ll text you. It was lovely to meet you Y/N, and I’ll see you tonight then.” You smiled. “It was nice meeting you too, see you tonight Henry.” You told him and you both smiled at each other before walking away.

You saw that you’ve chatted half an hour with each other. You never really went to go out with someone that you just met half an hour ago but the hell with that. You were changing and so were your habits. Besides, you were curious about this side of town. You went into town and sat down at another local coffee shop. You got some breakfast and read your book. You finished the book and decided to get a new one and a new cute outfit for tonight.

You went into a store and immediately found something nice and cute. You walked into another store for some self-care products and got into a old bookstore. You were wandering around and took your time before buying two books. You were happy with your purchases. You saw a little market and quickly bought a wine for yourself and made your way home. You checked your phone and saw a text from Henry “I’ll pick you up around 6, does that work for you?” you smiled and texted back “Absolutely, can’t wait!.”

You smiled and couldn’t believe it that you were going on a date with Henry Cavill. Was it a date? You questioned yourself and that was when doubt kicked in. You shrugged it off for now. You’ll notice when the time comes around. You laid down on the couch, your new book in hand and some candles lit. You put an alarm on so if you would fall asleep or lose track of time, you were sure to know.

At one point you got cold and decided to continue reading in the bathtub. You felt your muscles relax and got warm again. Your alarm went off, telling you that you should get ready. You put some different music on and put your new outfit on and applied some make-up. You texted Henry your address and did some finishing touches, applying some perfume until your doorbell rang. You took a deep breath, collected yourself and opened the door.

“Hey.” You smiled as you saw Henry with some flowers and wine. “Hey, I brought you flowers and some wine.” You smiled and stepped aside. “Thank you so much, come in.” You let Henry in and got the flowers and wine from him. “I didn’t know what kind of flowers you liked so I got some wine as well but then I figured, I don’t even know if you drink or like wine.” He was rambling and you chuckled. “It’s perfect, thank you very much.” He smiled.

“I like your apartment.” He told you honestly as he looked around him. “Thank you, been working on making it a cozy home.” You told him as you put the flowers in some water. “You’ve been doing a great job as far as I can see.” You chuckled. “Do you want something to drink or do you want to go?” You asked him a bit uncomfortable, not knowing how to behave for a moment. “I’d love to but I made a reservation. I hope you don’t mind?” he asked you and you felt a bit relieved to get out of your house. “That’s fine. Where are we going?” you asked him as you got your coat. “Oh let me help.” He told you and got your coat. You felt a bit flustered but let him do his thing. He helped you with your coat and you got your bag and keys.

You both walked out of your apartment complex and down the stairs. Henry offered his arm to you and you gratefully took it. You gave him a shy smile. He had a slight grin on his face, knowing how to treat a woman right.

You chatted a bit on your walk to the restaurant until you stood in front of it. It was a nice cozy little restaurant. Even though it was small, it still had very much style. Henry held the door open for you and you thanked him with a smile and a nod. Henry took your coat off and you felt flustered. Henry let the waitress now that he had reservations and she walked you both to the table. You could see the waitress trying to flirt with Henry but he ignored it. You didn’t knew if he ignored it on purpose or didn’t see it.

Henry held the chair for you and you sat down while he slightly adjusted the chair. God it was so hot how he treated you and you loved every single moment of it. Henry sat across from you and you decided on a red wine, which Henry got too.

Henry started asking some deeper stuff about you and why you left, which you answered honestly. When you fell into some deeper conversation you could feel the energy shift in the room. Henry only had attention for you and was listening intently. It felt like a very intimate moment. You asked him some deeper questions and continued to connect with him until the food arrived.

“Can I ask you something?” Henry asked you and you nodded. “Yeah of course” he smiled “I ehm Did you already know who I was when we met?” you knew what he was hinting at but noticed he was a little apprehensive about asking you. You gave him a warm smile. “Yes I did. I know you’re an actor, a great one at that if I might add. But I like the real you even more.” you told him honestly yet boldly, hinting that you liked him. He got a big smile and you could swear you saw him blush. “Thank you” you saw that he was a bit at lost for words but really meant the thank you, he gave you.

“I can’t believe I haven’t asked you yet but what do you do for work?” he asked you a bit surprised that he hadn’t asked you sooner. You smiled “I’m a multi media designer and writer actually. Right now, I have my own business and work for a big festival in my country. I’ll go back around festival season so I can work there. It’s doable from anywhere over the world but when the festival comes closer, it’s more practical for me to be there on sight.” Henry nodded and was very interested in what you told him.

“What about writing?” he asked you intrigued “Well, I write stories, a lot of them actually and it started out as a hobby and now it’s partially my job. I already wrote a book.” Henry looked even more intrigued. “Is it something I could now? What’s it called?” you chuckled and gave him the title of your book and you saw his eyes went big and he looked in utter surprise at you. “No way! Are you serious? That’s my favorite book!” You chuckled and saw him shift on his seat to get closer to you. “Thank you.” this time it was your time to be at lost for words.

“I’m actually in contact with Netflix about it… they might want to make it in a series. We have a meeting tomorrow.” He looked even more surprised. “No way, that would be amazing!” he chuckled and you smiled, nodding. “That would seriously be a hit at the box-office” he told you seriously. “I’m sorry, I’m just a big fan of your work.”  You chuckled “Thank you very much and it’s quite the irony isn’t it?” you chuckled as to earlier before when he asked you if you knew him already. Henry chuckled as well “Yeah, it sure is.”

Henry asked you a bit more about the festival and he could see the sparks in your eyes when you told him about it. You told him all the amazing things that happened, leaving out the not so fun parts out and saved them for later. Henry just smiled at how passionate you were about it until you realized how much and long you were talking about it. “I’m so sorry, I’ve been talking a while about it haven’t I?” You told him a bit embarrassed and he quickly shook his hand and softly placed his hand on top of yours. “Don’t worry about it! I love hearing you talk about it so passionately, I can only admire that.” You felt very flustered at his words and felt the heat spreading across your cheeks as you looked down.

You both finished dinner and when the check came in, Henry quickly took it. “I don’t mind splitting…” you told him but he shook his head. “No absolutely not, I asked you out and I want to.” He told you and you were assured that it was okay. You thanked him and he helped you get up out of your seat and with your coat again and obviously the door.

You both stood outside. “Ready to see this part of town?” he asked you with a smile and you nodded. He held out his arm for you again and you obviously took it. It was a little slippery from all the fallen snow and you held Henry’s arm a bit tighter. He showed you all of the gorgeous places around that part of town. You came across a cozy bar and you both looked at each other. “Want to get warmed up?” Henry asked you with a smile which you returned “Yeah definitely.” You chuckled out.

Henry held out the door for you and once again got your coat, helping you sit down. You ordered your favorite drink and Henry a Guinness. You chatted through the music and both got a little buzzed. Laughing at each other’s stories. You started to feel butterflies for the man in front of you. But not only that, it felt like you’ve met a real friend as well. There was a small band that started playing some live music.

It all just felt so incredibly right and at home as you looked around. You had great company, there was nice music, the bar was cozy and warm with Christmas decorations all over it, the drinks were nice, life felt good again. Like there was a reason that you’ve been through that formation. “Hey, you okay?” Henry asked when you were drifting away in thoughts. You looked at him and gave him a warm genuine smile “Yes, very much so.” He smiled a little flustered himself which you did too. It felt like you were in love high school kids again around each other. Even though it was so soon, you both hit if off great, perfectly even.

After a while you both decided to continue your journey again. Once outside you held his arm by yourself this time, catching his attention. “Oh, I’m sorry I thought.” You quickly got your hand away. Henry smiled adoringly at you. “No, it’s okay.” He told you reassuring and held out his arm again. You hid your smile in your scarf. “I found this perfect spot a couple of days ago. I don’t know how I haven’t found it sooner.” He told you as he led you to the place.

It was a small park with a little pond going through it. “If you stand just in the middle of the bridge, you can see the whole town” he told you and you both got on the wooden bridge. You were in awe of the sight laid out in front of you. “It’s gorgeous” You told him as you both stared at the lit up city.

“I’m pretty sure there are more spots like these around. Just haven’t found it yet. Maybe you would like to explore them together some time…?” he asked you carefully as if it was a heavy load on his chest. You turned around and couldn’t hide the smile “Together?” he got a bit nervous. “Only if you’d like.” He reassured you. “I’d love that.” You told him and he smiled, relief over his face. You both looked at each other and looked away with smiles on both of your faces. Yeah, definitely acting like high school kids. Henry lowered his arm slightly, bringing your arm with him and his hand went over the back of your hand until he intertwined your fingers together.

You both smiled again and felt flustered as your heart was taking leaps and the butterflies multiplied. “I really like your energy and company.” You smiled in your scarf again. “I really like yours too.” You told him and you could feel his thumb softly going over the back of your hand. “Is this okay?” he asked you softly scared to push the moment away. “Yeah, very much.”

It became silent again, making you feel a bit nervous as if this was the first time you fell in love with someone. The feeling of how right things felt and as if you’ve known him your entire life took over you. Like this was exactly where you needed to be. For once feeling that you were finally right where you should be and there for on the right path. You looked down at your hands which Henry noticed and did too. You looked at him and was unable to look away. The way the light of the moon glowed over his face, the freckle in his eye, the way that one curl fell to the front, the way he smiled and looked adoringly at you, they way his eyes held kindness than nothing more got you pulled into a pool of safety and comfort and it was at that moment, you were in deep.

Someone said that falling in love was literally taking a leap of faith. Falling in love was like surrendering to the other person and saying: “You can do anything to me” and hope for the best. The faith in someone not to take advantage. In a way that is completely mad because it takes a big risk and a leap of faith but no sensible human would let control out of their hands. Yet, love is able to do everything. For the first time in your life you weren’t afraid of falling in love anymore. You wanted to take this leap of faith and surrender to the strong feeling called love.

His hand cupped your cheek softly and you saw him looking at your features, taking in everything. Your hand found his coat and your fingers played with the texture of his coat. Automatically you pulled him slowly closer, his breath visible in the cold air just like yours until you felt warm air against your lips and you closed your eyes, getting ready to completely surrender.

You closed the gap between you two. His lips, warm and soft against yours, both sighting in the kiss, his hand slowly going to the back of your head, your fingers tugging into his coat as you pulled him closer. Henry deepened the kiss and you felt his tongue softly against yours. The kiss was so passionate and sensual, it was like something you’ve never experienced before, slowly taking both of your sweet time. It was addicting, you wanted more but fought against that feeling. You noticed that he was doing the same as the kiss slowed down and his lips separated from yours.

His forehead still resting against yours as you tried to catch your breath visibly in the cold air. “So… about that second date.” Henry broke the silence as you both started to laugh. “Yeah I’d like that.” Henry placed his lips against yours for a quick kiss, both smiling and grinning like idiots.

~ A year later ~

“Y/N! Over here!” there were flashes everywhere, blinding you slightly. Henry walked up to you with a big smile and placed his arm around you. You were on the red carpet for the tv series from your book. The day after your first date with Henry you had that meeting and let’s just say that it went amazing. You and Henry celebrated that night with sushi at your place and sharing the wine that he bought you.

More dates followed and the feeling grew stronger every day until one heated evening where you both couldn’t take it anymore. You both took that leap of faith and surrendered to each other. As if you both placed your sword down, accepting the faith. You fell in love before, yeah sure but this was different. You couldn’t explain it, it was a feeling like everything is how it should be.

You supported Henry with his new projects and accompanied him to shows and red carpets and he supported you with the making of your new series, the new book you were writing and stood next to you with the festival. That might’ve been his favorite memory. Now not only could he hear it, he could see it, feel it, experience it. He saw you in a new light, making him fall even deeper in love. The passion and love radiating from you with that festival… it radiated off of you and lifted up everyone who came across you. It was almost magical..

And now, he accompanied you on the red carpet. He loved that you got the recognition that you deserved. He wanted the world to see you shine. He knew you were something else in every good way possible and you were finally able to shine your light upon the world and show what you were capable of. Henry gladly stood besides you. in all the good and all the bad. It was faith after all.

taglist: @thereisa8ella @chrisevansdaughter @sarahrogersevans

[ana-swritings-vault]

Flying (Mature) (Book 2 - "Flying" series) (For Book 1 see Jensen Ackles)

Summary: After fourteen years, Bella is sure that her life is always going to stay the same and she isn’t eager for a change. However, after a celebration in Court, something changes and this is a change that Bella isn’t expecting. It’s something that throws her into a whole new world of danger, new friends, new and old foes, and the possibility of a new adventure. Will Bella be willing to give this change a chance? Or will she fall victim to her own fears and lose the chance to mend her broken heart?

Landing (Mature) (Book 3 - "Flying" series) (For Book 1 see Jensen Ackles)

Summary: After pushing the woman he loves away, Henry has to battle with his feeling for her and questions if he has done the right thing. Meanwhile, Bella continues to refuse Alexander's advances but things are going to take a horrible turn when a diplomatic mission goes sideways. Will things ever get back to what they used to be? Will Henry and Bella finally find their happy ever after? Or will fate tear them apart forever? Read the final book in the "Flying" series to find out what happens to our heroine and the man she loves.

[pascaloverx]

DANGEROUS

CHAPTER ONE

Summary: You are a retired spy trying to live a normal life. Some time ago, a hired assassin named Tangerine tried to kill you. In response, you sought the help of an old acquaintance who could fake any death, August Walker. However, now your false identity is in jeopardy, along with your life.

Warnings: For now, the fanfic will not contain explicit content, but it will be flagged if it does in the future. However, there will be the use of strong language and moderate violence. Readers are advised. The characters August Walker and Tangerine do not belong to me but to their respective creators. Some other characters that belong to both Mission: Impossible (2018) and Bullet Train (2022) may appear in this fanfic. Other characters who are not part of these movies will be of my own creation. I hope you enjoy the reading.

chapter two

A dark night, too dark for your liking. You're the kind of person who prefers light to darkness, but life has taught you to adapt to your surroundings. Trained since adolescence, you became a great spy. Perhaps too great. One day, someone tried to kill you, and they almost succeeded. To this day, all you know about the hired assassin who nearly ended your life is his nickname. That's because he told you to thank the kindness of the tangerine or any other citrus fruit when you were in a hospital bed fighting for your life. In the end, he helped you. In order to disappear from the radar, you turned to a highly dangerous man named August Walker.

"Neighbor, you should come inside. It's too late for a young lady, even if you're a widow like yourself. Your husband surely wouldn't leave you alone, especially at this hour of the night." Mrs. Johnson speaks from the balcony of her house, which is a few houses before mine.

"In fact, my late husband didn't have much say in where I should go, regardless of the time, but thank you, Mrs. Johnson. I have a commitment with an old college friend, and I have to hurry to catch the last train." you say, trying to be falsely polite and quickening your pace; after all, you're really running late. Walker sent a message after two years of no contact. To be honest, you thought he was dead. But when a bouquet of red roses appeared on your fake late husband's grave, you knew. Walker needs you.

The cold night wind rustles the hem of your dress, which is neither too short nor too long. Fortunately, you decided to wear a coat that shields you from the excessive chill. The bouquet of roses marks the location of the meeting with Walker. In the city center, there is a flower shop named W. Flowers. Few know, but August is the heir to this florist. The new owner usually keeps the flower shop open until late at night, claiming it's for the sake of last-minute lovers. You hurriedly board the train, having purchased a ticket for the last available seat. Strangely, the seats next to and in front of you are empty. A chill runs down your spine. Something feels off-kilter. When you stand up, you see Walker entering the train with a dark overcoat that complements his expensive suit. He doesn't look directly at you; in fact, it's as if he's scanning every corner of the train before allowing his gaze to meet yours. Something is amiss. You act as if he is a stranger for much of the journey. He occupies the seat in front of you, indicating that he wants to observe you without interacting. A young woman with a child in her lap takes the seat next to August.

The train is about to depart, and no one has taken the seat beside you. You allow yourself to think that perhaps the passenger gave up the journey, or Walker intentionally bought this ticket, knowing that only the seat across from him would be left for you. You glance at him, and he seems uneasy. As always, his gaze says little. During the times you trained to become skilled spies, he was always praised for having a difficult-to-read or interpret face. You decide to gently nudge his leg with your foot, while the mother of the child tries to calm her restless son. He seems to understand that you need a signal, something to comprehend the situation you both find yourselves in. So, he drags his shoe to the exposed part of your leg and quickly forms a 'T' with the tip of his shoe. You swiftly grasp what's happening.

"Excuse me, is this seat taken?" A completely recognizable voice addresses you, and then he sits beside you. The man, as attractive as he may be, will always be remembered as the one who tried to kill you, now sitting next to you on the train. He is wearing a blue suit, adjusting his blazer while smiling at the child who has now stopped throwing a tantrum and has finally calmed down in the mother's lap.

You look at Walker, as if to say, "Fuck you." He handed me over to the citrus fruit. You get up quickly trying to escape. But Tangerine's hand holds your hand. His hand is firm holding yours, almost making it seem like we're old lovers or something.

"Honey, you should sit down, the train is going to leave soon. You might lose your balance." Your eyes are penetrated through Tangerine's blue eyes. A somewhat greenish blue.

"Thank you for your kindness, but I really need to go to the bathroom." You say, smiling slightly and then heading to the bathroom as quickly as possible. Your breathing is so uneven, your chest feels like it's going to explode. You only come to your senses when someone knocks on the bathroom door.

"Sorry, the bathroom is occupied." That's all you can say before having the bathroom stall invaded by Walker. As soon as you see it's him, your first instinct is to hit his chest. With all the strength possible. But he holds your hands and then pulls your body against his.

"I know you're angry and I accept all your anger. But right now, Y/L/N, we're screwed. We're in that psychopath's hands." He speaks almost with a beating, while still holding your hands.

"We're screwed, my ass. You screwed yourself and for a change you gave me away so you wouldn't be screwed alone." You know Walker too well to know he would do anything to survive. You think about opening the bathroom stall door but he holds your body against the door and finally lets go of your hands. You look into Walker's eyes before doing the only thing that comes to your mind. You pull Walker's face towards you and kiss him. A kiss that slowly intensifies, as you explore every part of his body with your hands. Carefully you notice that he has a gun on the back of his waist. You hold tight to his neck, bringing your legs up to Walker's waist. He understood that he should hold your ass and basically hold you on his lap. You lightly touch Walker's penis, which seems to be getting erect. Anything to distract him while you try to get the gun out of his waistband.

"I know what you're doing..." He says without breaking the kiss too much, which is perfect. You finally reach for the gun and then you bite down hard on Walker's lip. He moans loudly in pain and and moves away from you. Before he can react, you shoot into the air and turn to run out of the train, imagining all the passengers running out of the train as soon as they heard it the shot.

"See you outside." You talk running out of the train with the crowd. Leaving Walker behind. But then you feel someone grab your waist as soon as you get off the train.

"I'm glad you let Walker go, now it's just you and me." Tangerine says, smiling slightly as he guides you and you feel like you won't escape easily this time.

[deexchanel]

BM3

Please Read BM and BM2 before reading; thanks.

Word Count: 2,517

Pairing: Chris Evans x BlackFem!OC

Warning: Swearing, Angst, Drinking.

Summary: Reality always comes back and bites you in the asss.

A/N: You know I had to double it.

Karma ~ Summer Walker is the vibe for this.

“Chris…”

The familiar voice made Chris quickly pull back. There stood Minka with a red face and tear stained cheeks.

Shit.

“Why am I watching you kiss your baby's mother after you told me you were at your daughter's birthday party?” Minka looked between them. Chris was lost for words because he didn’t even know she was coming.

“What are you doing here Minka?”

She gave them a dry laugh, “You really want to sit here and answer my question with a question, wow.” Her eyes flickered from him to Ryelle.

“I’m just going to leave; give Lively to me.”Ryelle just had enough of tonight already. Minka on the other hand, the night was just getting started for her. “Leave? Do you think your home-wrecking ass is just going to leave bitch?? No! Ain’t nobody leaving until I get fucking answers!” She made her way closer to Ryelle, aiming to hurt her.

Chris quickly handed Lively off and then caught Minka in his arms. “No! Wait Minka!”

Lively began to cry from the quick movement. Ryelle just got in the car, holding her daughter to her chest. Now at this point, Minka is knocking on the window while yelling.“Get out the fucking car!”

“Minka chill-”

“Chill? How the fuck can I chill when I find my fiancé sucking faces with his baby momma?! I can’t believe you Chris!” Minka pushed him away from her. Ryelle cranks up the car then pulls off leaving them to argue.

“We were going to talk Minka, I had got caught up being with Lively.”

“I thought you loved me, why would you do this to me?”

“I do love you, but this relationship makes me feel like I’m not myself. I feel like I’m big-time actor Chris Evans and not Christoper. That’s not how I want to feel for the rest of my life.” He maintained eye contact in hopes that Minka would listen for once.

“Okay and that’s when you communicate with me! I’m your future wife.” She crossed her arms.

“You’re saying that like it’s easy when the person I’m trying to communicate with doesn’t even listen to me!” Chris then takes a huge breath. Throughout this whole argument, Ry stayed on his mind.

“I do listen!” Minka tries to argue. She knows that she is treating him right so he can't put his actions on her. Well, that's what she thinks.

Chris shook his head knowing that she didn’t understand him, “Minka how did you get here?”

“Emeri brought me because we were trying to surprise you guys. I was going to show you that I’m wiling to be a step mother. Henry’s location checked in for here.”

—-

Leilani sat on the hood of Henry’s all-black Mercedes while he stood between her legs. They waited for Chris to call so he could let them know when to leave. They sat in the car first but since it had been a minute waiting on their call, they got out.

“You calm now love?”

“Yes, but it’s just I get so worked up about my sister when she’s fucked with for no reason. Then again, I didn’t want to hit my mother.”

“I’d most definitely be that about my siblings as well. You are very good to your sister.”

“Thank you.” She spoke softly, giving him a tired smile.

The orange light shining above from the street lamp had her beautiful dark skin showing. Henry being taller had a perfect view of everything. He gave a her a kiss on the forehead.

A car a few feet away jams on breaks catching both their attention, a brunette rapidly gets out the car. Recognizing the car and woman, Henry steps back making way to her. “I can explain.”

His girlfriend of 3 years stared at him with tears falling down from her eyes. “Fuck you Henry.”

Leilani stood up from the car, intrigued on who this is. He turns around throwing her his car keys, “Get my car to Ryelle’s house.”

“W-What? W-Where are you-”

Her questions went ignored as Henry put the brunette in the passenger seat then gets in the driver seat pulling off. This happened so fast that Leilani didn’t piece the puzzle together just yet. She got into the driver side of the expensive car and just sat there for a second after cranking it up.

Then it clicked, this is his car. Quickly, she shuffled through his arm rest, a holder that held his folders and even under the seat until she checked the glove compartment. Bingo.

Hair ties, lipgloss, panties, and makeup for a quick re fix along with pictures of them being together. Tears fell as she flipped through the photos knowing that was the answer she sought.

“I’m falling in love with a man that is in a relationship. I’m so stupid!”

She lets out a frustrated scream repeatedly hitting the steering wheel. " I'm so fucking stupid ugh!.” Blood dripped from her hands but to her the pain felt good.

—

I told you, you better stay prayed up

You never thought the universe be looking for revenge

—

Her previous love attempts were failures, and this is the tip of the iceberg. Life is crumbling down like she is being stabbed in the same spot over and over again. She put the car in drive, heading the nearest store.

Liquor Store to be exact.

—

You can't keep just doing them girls like that

Thinking that nobody finna bite back

Losing your mind, baby

Can't be sure, time's wasting

—

“Please don’t fear me, I’m just karma.” She sung lowly walking into the liquor store. The security camera gave her a chance to look at her appearance. Her hair was all over, the makeup gave away that she been crying and her hands were bloody.

“That’ll be 25.87 ma’am.” The cashier responded, looking her up and down, she put 40 dollars in his hand.

“Keep the change.”

She took the plastic wrapping off the top and opened it. Leilani gave herself a shot, feeling the nasty burn when she swallowed. She got into the car and drove all the way to her sister's house.

Leilani sat on the porch, staring at the stars while drinking. The wind starts to blow, and she took a shot for every thought that ran through her mind.

Ryelle lifted herself up from the crying mess she was on the bed. She wanted to take a break from having a cluttered mind. Putting on some crocs, Ry walks downstairs to go out the door. “Lei?” She questioned, trying to see if that was her sister. She was correct.

“Hmm?”

She walked closer to her sister, seeing her having a big liquor bottle in her lap. “You good sis?”

Her low eyes looked up to her sister, “Hell nawl but it is what is, you know. I put my love into the wrong guys.” Ryelle politely sat her ass the fuck down, then grabbed the bottle, untwisted the cap, and flicked that bitch. She chugged a great amount, using the back of her hand to clean her mouth when finishing.

“Tell me the fuck about it!”

“Henry made me feel special like in some moments, I can’t look him the face out of nervousness from that he is so damn fine. Is it bad that I want to fuck that man everyday.”

“You’re not lying. Our men were a fine piece of art.”

“Can I vent to you about Henry?”

“Baby the floor is all yours.”

“We were literally sitting on the hood of his car waiting on you guys and this girl pulls up fast as fuck. I’m dead ass confused and I tried to question him but I choked up, a thousand things going through my mind Ry. He barely answers, throws me the keys then dipped with her. I went through his shit in his car.” Leilani sat up on that ending sentence.

“No, the fuck you didn’t!”Ryelle glanced at her, interested. Lei gave her a “You know I’m mf serious.” look.

“I did, and my intuition was right! That girl is his girlfriend! Panties, makeup, hair ties, the whole fix. We fucked in that car before the dinner! Ugh! I’m a home wrecker!”

“Lei you didn’t know but then again it’s fucked up that he did that. How much this bottle cost? This shit good.”

“25.87. What took you and Chris so long to let us know when to leave?”

“His fiancé walks up on up while we’re in the middle of kissing. Literally, after I told him I love him like a little bitch. I was rushing things and she snapped me out of reality. I took Liv back, and we left.”

“Damn. Take another shot after I take mine.”

“Bet.”

Leilani took a shot and Ry did too.

“What happened to your hands?” Ryelle took notice of her bloodied hands and softly grabbed them to inspect them better.

“They’re fine.”

“No, they’re not, and you know it. Let’s go in so I can heal you up.” Ryelle head swayed back and forth. Her body couldn't be still, definitely indicating that she's drunk.

“Okay fine.” Leilani stood up and then made her way up the steps. When Ryelle got up, her body began to lean forward, and Lei quickly grabbed her sister.

“Ry! Girl!”

Ry was laughing so hard she was wheezing. “Bitch I almost fell forward.”

Lei laughed at her stupidity. “You sure do know how to make a bitch feel better.” She wrapped her arms around her favorite person in the world, and they stumbled into the house.

—————-

Ryelle woke up around 6; her dream mainly consisted of what happened at dinner and afterward. She walked downstairs, straight to the refrigerator, taking out strawberries. Ry debated making eggs and decided to wait until she woke up Lively.

She walked back upstairs to wake her babygirl. Sitting on the bed, Ry rubbed Liv’s back. “Good morning baby.”

Those eyes she loves to see every morning opened. Lively rubbed them first then the eyelids drooped. “Good morning, momma.”

“Do you want eggs?”

“Yes.”

“Well let’s go to the kitchen then sweetheart.”

Ryelle stood from the bed holding out her hand. Lively gladly took her hand and they walked to the kitchen together.

“Mommy, can we add cheese to them?” Lively pushed over the stool as Ryelle grabbed the ingredients. Lastly, Ry placed a frying pan on the stove. "Yes, my love." The two worked together (Mostly Ryelle) to make cheese eggs. When finished, she prepared them a bowl bringing it to the couch.

"Mommy, can we go on a walk to the park?" Lively questioned when finishing her food. Ryelle haven't walked around the neighborhood in a while. "Yes, we can after cleaning up behind ourselves."

Lively gave her a smile as she quickly got up going to the kitchen. After Ryelle got up to put her bowl up, she picked up Lively, and they walked upstairs. It was a bit gloomy today, so Ry checked the weather when she touched her phone. It's supposed to rain in the evening around 5pm, and now it is 7:20 a.m.

She got Lively ready and got herself ready.

Someone rang the doorbell, catching their attention. "Who is that?" Lively questioned as she got up from the couch, setting the iPad aside. Ryelle shrugged her shoulders, making her way to the door. "I don't know but stay near the couch baby."

"Yes, ma'am." Lively looked skeptical but grabbed her iPad again. She opened the door to see someone holding a vase of roses with an edible arrangement. "Yes?"

"Hi, I'm dropping off this beautiful package to Ryelle! Hope you enjoy!" The woman gave Ryelle the things and then left. Ry walked to the kitchen, still in confusion about who had sent this. She had smelled the beautiful roses. The fruit caught Lively's attention, and she came over to her mother.

"Momma, can I have a fruit, please?" She placed her hands on the bottom to turn the arrangement around. Ryelle didn't hear her at first as she read the card.

"My life is amazing as long as you're in it. - Chris Evans"

The feelings she had for Chris wanted to shoot fireworks in the air but she hoped this isn't his form of apology. Ryelle is angry. Angry at the fact that she was confused about her feelings for him. She doesn't know if she wants to be done with him. Ryelle needs too though because why did he send her this when obviously he chose Minka? She just sat the card down, and Lively calling her name brought her back. "Mommy?"

"H-Huh? I'm sorry babygirl, Mommy zoned out there for a minute. What is it?" Ryelle shook her head, fighting the urge to smell the roses again. Lively points at the shaped fruit, "I want the pineapples."

"Okay, baby." She grabbed a plate from the drying rack then placed 4 pieces of fruit onto the plate then gave it to Lively.

"Thank you mommy."

"You're welcome, baby."

The two walked back to the couch. The whole going to the park thing was thrown to the side when receiving the gift, and now all Ryelle want is either wine or weed. Something has to get her mind off him. "Lively, do you still feel like going to the park? We can go get something to eat from wherever you want it from."

That excited her daughter, "I wanna go to chic fil a so I can go down slide."

A phone call interrupted their conversation, and Ryelle glanced at the caller I.D." Keep hold of that thought bubble. It's your Father calling babygirl." Lively nodded watching her mother press the green button.

"Hello?" "Hey Ry, I... I called to check on you."

Before Ryelle could finish Lively, who clearly doesn't know the vibe of the phone call, spoke in excitement to her father.

"Daddy!!"

"Hey Babygirl, I miss you!"

"I miss you too, daddy. When you come home?"

"Um, it'll be a while, Liv."

That's when the pouting started, and Ryelle wanted to finish the phone call before Liv's feelings are hurt. She cleared her throat.

"We're fine Chris. We were just about to go somewhere for lunch."

"Okay...Okay."

Liv interrupted their moment of silence,"Daddy why you not come home? Did I do something?" Over the line, Chris sighs not knowing how to answer.

"No...No baby, it's not you. Mommy and I just have to talk about some things."

'We ain't got to talk about shit' Ryelle thought to herself. Liv grabs the phone out her hand.

"Wel-Well can you come with us to lunch today?"

Ry looked at her daughter's crazy manner but bit her tongue. She didn't want to ruin Liv's dream, but then again she feels like it was too soon to see him again.

Chris didn't know if Ry even wanted him there, so it was a hitch in his answer. "Uh-"

"Please, daddy? Please?"

"Fine, baby girl, I will go to lunch with you guys."

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

Yeahhhh part 3 bitches!!

I have plans to drop a couple more posts, so be on the watch!

Stay slutty my friends.

[ana-swritings]

Flying

Hello, my lovelies. Here it is. The story I have been working on for the last few weeks. Hope you like it.

This is Book 2 of the "Flying" series. So, stay tuned for the rest of the series. :)

Check it out and let me know what you think. :)

Love y'all,

Ana

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Pairing: Henry Cavill x OFC

Fandom: Henry Cavill RPF

Words: 20,090

Fair Warning: Fluff; Angst; Hurt; Royalty AU; Anger; Comfort; Romance

Summary: After fourteen years, Bella is sure that her life is always going to stay the same and she isn’t eager for a change. However, after a celebration in Court, something changes and this is a change that Bella isn’t expecting. It’s something that throws her into a whole new world of danger, new friends, new and old foes, and the possibility of a new adventure. Will Bella be willing to give this change a chance? Or will she fall victim to her own fears and lose the chance to mend her broken heart?

Prologue

-“What are your thoughts on our special guest?” - Josh asks.

-“His reputation preceded him and he definitely lives up to it.” - Bella scoffs.

-“About that, I have some news.”

-“What news?” - Bella looks at him, suspiciously.

-“You have a suitor.”

-“What? Who?”

-“King Henry Cavill.”

***

After fourteen years, Bella is sure that her life is always going to stay the same. With being a present mother to her daughter, Alexis, and an advisor, and confident, to Mackenzie making up for most of her days, she is happy with her life and isn’t eager for a change.

However, after the yearly celebration of the claiming of the Tidaholm Kingdom, something changes and this is a change that Bella isn’t expecting. It’s a change that throws her into a whole new world of danger, new friends, new and old foes, and the possibility of a new adventure.

Will Bella be willing to give this change a chance? Or will she fall victim to her own fears and lose the chance to mend her broken heart?

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Continue reading here.

Hope you enjoyed it. :)

If you'd like to give me a tip, you can buy me a coffee here. :)

For all my works, please check out my vault here. :)

[fivequartersoftheorange]

Sherlock Holmes x OFC (Emily)

Warnings: • DEAD DOVE: DO NOT EAT • Somnophilia • Non-Con • Implied kidnapping • Drug use • Breeding Kink • Lactation Kink • Daddy Kink • Oral sex • Penetrative Sex • Creampie • Knife play

Summary:  Sherlock is pent-up and agitated. Luckily he knows exactly what to do to blow off some steam.

Author’s note: My first foray into dark fic! Will it sink or will it swim? Who knows. Honestly I've been plugging away at this for god knows how long that I'm not even sure if it's good. At this point, everything is just a blur of words.

I would like to thank Anne Rice for inspiring this little trash piece. Have any of you ever read the The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty? No? Well you should. Definitely fucked me up.

I also would like to thank @littlefreya for encouraging me to write this and helping me figure out some things. You're the best babe!

Please Anne Rice's lawyers don't sue me. This isn't a fic of her works. For God's sake I was inspired by it.

Anyway, enjoy! Or not. I can't tell you what to do.

Sherlock took the stairs two at a time. He was on edge, every muscle in his body wired with tension, frenetic energy coiled deep in his belly begging to be released.

He stood at the threshold of her room and admired the delectable sight laid out before him.

Her dark hair spilled over the pillows like ink bleeding onto paper, and her nightgown of loose, gossamer fabric revealed her rounded breasts and the shadow of her nipples. He pulled the heavy damask curtains that shrouded her room in darkness. The late afternoon sun trickled into the room and - he gasped - she was as lovely as a painting, tender eyelids that gave way to long lashes that swept down to her rounded cheeks and dusky rose lips.

She was perfection and she belonged to him.

Depositing himself beside her, he traced her delicate brow with his tongue and the bridge of her nose and made his way to the shell of her ear. 

Curious. For she did not stir.

He drew out a dagger he kept hidden within his boot and slipped the blade between her breasts - oh no, he had no patience with these laces and ties and strings - letting it rip through the fabric.

Her breasts were wonderfully plump and firm. And his rough hands pawed at them, cupping each breast, moving them about, almost as if he were weighing fruit at the market.

Her brows drew together into a frown.

Curiouser and curiouser, he thought. For she still did not stir.

Carefully as to not draw blood, he ran the tip of his dagger round and round her nipples until they hardened like berries ripe for the picking. He latched onto them like a suckling babe, and a sudden thought flashed through his head.

Her perfect breasts, round and heavy with milk, her stomach swollen with his seed.

He inhales sharply.

Yes. He should put his baby in her. Stuff her tiny cunt with his cock; fuck her full till she's leaking. Fuck her till everybody knows who she belongs to.

He palms himself through his trousers, knows he is already thick and throbbing with need. But he can wait. He's always been a patient man.

He cut away the rest of her gown and threw it to the floor. Her body was now bared to him, a smorgasbord of delights.

Sherlock ran his hands all over her body, marveling at the young, supple flesh. He caresses her dainty feet with kisses, worships at the altar of her milky, white thighs before his tongue debauches her center.

Like a man starved, his lips latch on to the sensitive nub between her lips. Sucking and lapping at the wetness like it was ambrosia from the gods, skillfully working his tongue until she arched her back and rocked her hips on his face.

A smirk grew on Sherlock's face, satisfaction heavy on his mind at the needy whine that spilled forth from her lips. Even in sleep, her body responded to his ministrations, trained her little cunt so well that she needn't be awake to feel pleasure.

He doesn't waste time undressing, mounts her, parts her legs, grasps himself at the root and runs the blunt head between her lips, coating it in her slick. He sheathes himself to the hilt, growls at the wet heat that engulfs him.

"What a perfect cunt, my Emily. So hot and tight, my darling girl." he rasps, snapping his hips, watching as his cock disappears into her drippy cunt.

Obscene squelching sounds fill the room as he begins to pick up his pace. He places his thumb at the nub of flesh between her puffy lips and draw figure-of-eights. Her reaction is instantaneous; she mewls, mouth in a little moue of distress.

"You like that, my darling girl? Like it when Papa fucks so deep into you?"

He almost wishes she were awake, just so he could gaze upon her face, half-crazed with confusion, terror and pleasure. Sherlock knows he is a wretched man, but the rush of power he feels at her helplessness is a powerful aphrodisiac.

As he feels her cunt tighten at every thrust, Sherlock watches her tits bounce. Soon they'll be swollen and leak milk. A growl rises from him as he envisions his tongue swirling over her nipples, the cloying taste of sweetness at the back of his throat.

"Fuck, Emily. Fuck, fuck, fuck."

Her cunt clamps vise-like against his cock, it drives him over the edge. He spills into her; the force of his climax leaves him light-headed. Panting, he thrusts slowly one, two, three more times before he withdraws. He catches his spend pooling out of her abused cunt, scoops it and tucks it back inside.

Sherlock wipes at the sweat gathered at his brow and drags a hand through his curls, fixing himself to a semblance of decency. He gets up and pushes a pillow under her hips, to ensure that he takes root.

He putters around the room, dips a washcloth in the creamware bowl at her vanity, and wipes away their combined fluids on her thighs.

Sherlock looks at the assortment of bottles on her bedside table, picks a bottle and holds it up against the fading light of the sun. Ah, he's almost out. He uncorks it, and five drops of reddish brown laudanum disappear into the glass of water.

It'll calm her when she wakes up.

It'll steady her hand and keep her his pliant, little girl.

[msilwrites]

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - SEVEN

A/N: In this chapter, we explore Henry's remarkable capabilities as a shrewd strategic executive and master manipulator.  Henry's effectiveness in achieving his goals is undeniable.  However, as the story unfolds, we also witness a satisfying wave of regret and realization washing over Henry.

Defying Desire

SEVEN

In a posh townhouse nestled within the city's bustling streets, Henry found himself lost in a sea of thoughts. The sleek and masculine interior of his abode mirrored his refined taste and style. With a glass of whisky in hand, he lounged in a plush chair, his mind consumed by memories of Sage. Regret weighed heavily on him as he replayed their past together. He had made a big mistake by ending their relationship, and now he longed to make things right.

The room was dimly lit, casting shadows across his face as he took a sip of the amber liquid. Thoughts of Sage overwhelmed him, igniting a fire in his heart. He couldn't help but recall the passion they once shared, longing to feel her touch and reconnect with her on a deep level.

Although the board members were impressed by his strategic partnership with the app, it was Sage who held the key to his happiness. The business stuff seemed less important compared to the prospect of having her back in his life.

Lost in his thoughts, Henry grew more determined. He knew pursuing a former lover who had blocked all communication was risky, but it only fueled his desire to win Sage back. It became a challenge, a chance to prove that their love was worth fighting for.

In his mind, he pictured their reunion—a spark of electric chemistry reigniting between them. Every touch and whispered word would carry the weight of their shared history. Henry yearned to apologize for the past, to show Sage how much he regretted his actions and convince her that he had truly changed.

As the whisky burned his throat, matching the fire inside him, Henry realized he had to tread carefully. He couldn't just rush back into Sage's life; he had to find a way to break through her barriers.

The strategic partnership with the app offered him an opportunity to reach out to Sage, to discuss the collaboration and the impact it could have on their lives. Ideas swirled in Henry's mind on how to subtly reconnect, to show Sage that his feelings were still strong.

With determination, he set his glass down and stood up. Walking towards the window, he admired the twinkling city lights. A steely resolve emanated from him as he silently promised himself to make things right. He would find a way to win back Sage's trust and reignite their once-burning flame.

Late into the night, Henry's excitement grew. The strategic partnership had opened a door, and now he had to face the challenges ahead. Every passing moment fueled his determination to execute his plan flawlessly and prove to Sage that their love was worth any risk or sacrifice.

In the solitude of his luxurious townhouse, Henry felt a renewed sense of purpose. The whisky coursing through his veins emboldened him, driving his pursuit of his desires. The calculated move he made during the board meeting went beyond business—it was a way to bring Sage back into his arms, where she truly belonged.

----------

Kieran sat across from Sage in the cozy afternoon lounge, their teacups steaming gently on the table. The delightful aroma of freshly baked desserts, coffee, and tea filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The red brick walls and brown wooden accents gave the place a touch of dark academia aesthetic, adding to its charm.

As Kieran recounted the events of the boardroom meeting, Sage listened attentively. She had already shared with him the fact that Henry was her ex-boyfriend, so Kieran was familiar with their history. Their friendship and collaboration had allowed for open and honest conversations between them.

Sage's eyes met Kieran's, a mix of curiosity and concern reflecting in her gaze. She knew the potential conflict of interest arising from Kieran acquiring her app for his own company while also being associated with the Havel Group as a non-executive director. The situation had taken an unexpected turn with Henry's objection and proposal to buy the app or form a partnership.

Setting her teacup down gently on the table, Sage leaned forward, her voice filled with a blend of sincerity and determination. "Kieran, I never expected this to become so complicated. I appreciate your support in acquiring my app, but I also understand the concerns raised by Henry and the board."

Sage leaned forward, her eyes fixed on Kieran's, her voice filled with urgency. "Kieran, please, if there's any way you can ensure that the app doesn't end up in Henry's possession, I would be forever grateful. I have a suspicion that he's trying to use this as a way to force me to communicate with him again, and I can't allow that to happen. I've blocked him from all my channels for a reason, and I want to maintain my distance. I know it might sound presumptuous, but I've known Henry for a long time, and I can't shake the feeling that he's trying to manipulate the situation to his advantage."

Kieran nodded, understanding the gravity of Sage's words. "Sage, I trust your instincts, and I know you have a deep understanding of Henry's character. We shouldn't underestimate his determination and the lengths he might go to achieve his goals. Rest assured, I'll do everything in my power to keep the app out of his hands and protect you from any unwanted interactions.”

Sage's shoulders relaxed, a sense of relief washing over her. She appreciated Kieran's support and belief in her judgment. "Thank you, Kieran. It means a lot to have someone who understands and stands by me."

----------

As Kieran's Rolls Royce pulled up in front of the office building at Canary Wharf, Sage's attention shifted from the familiar surroundings to the task at hand. Stepping out of the car with purpose, she strode alongside Kieran towards the elevator, her mind focused on the upcoming boardroom meeting.

Navigating the bustling lobby with ease, Sage's determination propelled her forward. She had been to this building before, familiar with its polished halls and bustling energy. Canary Wharf was not uncharted territory for her.

Entering the elevator, Sage exchanged a knowing glance with Kieran, their shared determination palpable. They had meticulously prepared for this moment, ensuring their presentation was strong and persuasive. The ride up to the designated floor was filled with a sense of anticipation, their focus honed on making a compelling case.

As the elevator doors opened, Sage was greeted by Simon, Henry's older brother and the leader of the Havel Group. A warm smile spread across Simon's face as he approached her, enveloping her in a genuine hug. "Sage, it's so good to see you. How have you been?" he asked, a touch of surprise in his voice. "I didn't realize you were behind this app until today"

Sage returned the hug, appreciating the warmth and genuine concern from Henry's brother. "Thank you, Simon," she replied with a soft smile. "I've been well”

As they walked down the corridor towards the boardroom, Simon expressed his eagerness to hear Sage's explanation about the app. He emphasized the importance of her addressing the board directly to ensure a clear understanding of the app's purpose and its compatibility with the Havel Group's businesses.

Entering the boardroom, Sage took her seat at the table, surrounded by the familiar faces of the board members. Among them were Henry's brothers, who held executive positions within the Havel Group. As she looked around, she noticed their smiles of recognition, accompanied by a warmth that conveyed a sense of familiarity and fondness.

Sage met their gazes, returning their smiles with a nod of acknowledgement. Despite the complexities of her past with Henry, it seemed that his brothers still held a level of respect and appreciation for her. It was a reassuring reminder that she had made a positive impression on them during her time with Henry.

With unwavering conviction, Sage highlighted the app's potential to revolutionize the industry and create new opportunities for growth. She stressed that by allowing Kieran's company to maintain ownership and control over the app, it would be able to flourish independently, fostering innovation and agility.

Furthermore, Sage outlined the potential risks and challenges that could arise from integrating the app into the Havel Group. She emphasized the importance of preserving the app's brand identity and user experience, which could be compromised if it became just another division of the conglomerate.

Drawing upon her own experiences as the app's creator and the deep understanding she had gained from working closely with Kieran, Sage eloquently expressed her belief that the best path forward was to allow Kieran's company to continue nurturing and developing the app independently. She emphasized that this would ensure the app's continued success and allow it to reach its full potential.

As Sage concluded her presentation, there was a moment of contemplative silence in the boardroom. The board members exchanged glances, processing the weight of Sage's arguments. Her passion and persuasive delivery had made an impact, causing them to rethink the initial assumption of absorbing the app into the Havel Group.

Henry's voice broke the silence, his tone brimming with confidence. "I understand Sage's concerns, but I believe we should view this app as an incredible asset for the Havel Group," he proclaimed, capturing the attention of the board members.

Henry proceeded to outline his vision for incorporating the app into the company, highlighting the potential benefits it could bring. He argued that by embracing the app's community platform, the Havel Group could expand its offerings, attract new customers, and enhance its overall retail experience.

Sage's heart sank as she listened to Henry's counterarguments. She knew that her app was not meant to compete with the Havel Group's existing retail business. It served as a platform for individuals to buy and sell a wide range of items and services, catering to a different market segment altogether.

Summoning her courage, Sage raised her hand, signaling her desire to respond. All eyes turned back to her, awaiting her rebuttal.

"Sage," Henry interjected, his voice laced with concern and authority, "I appreciate your dedication to the app, but I genuinely believe that it can thrive within the Havel Group. We can leverage our brand reputation and resources to take it to new heights."

Sage locked eyes with Henry, firm in her convictions. "Henry, I understand your perspective, but it's important to recognize that my app doesn't pose a direct threat to the Havel Group's retail business. It operates in a different space, empowering individuals to engage in peer-to-peer transactions and services."

She continued, eloquently explaining the potential risks of integrating the app into the Havel Group. "By aligning the app with a luxury-focused brand, we run the risk of diluting its unique identity. Users value the app for its inclusive nature and its ability to cater to a wide range of needs and budgets. Merging it with the Havel Group could compromise that appeal."

Sage went on to emphasize the importance of maintaining the app's independent image and allowing it to grow organically within its own niche. She painted a vivid picture of how integration could blur its purpose and alienate its loyal user base.

As Sage finished speaking, a charged silence filled the boardroom. The board members exchanged contemplative glances, grappling with the decision at hand. They now had to weigh the allure of Henry's proposal against Sage's compelling arguments for preserving the app's integrity and unique market positioning

The boardroom fell into a hushed pause as the members took a break to deliberate on the weighty decision before them. Sensing the tension in the room, Kieran rose from his seat, gesturing for Sage to join him outside. They stepped out into the hallway, the sound of their footsteps echoing softly.

Sage looked at Kieran, a mix of hope and concern in her eyes. "Kieran, if the board decides to go with the Havel Group, is there any way you can ensure that the app doesn't end up in Henry's hands? I know we have a partnership on the table, but I worry about the consequences if he gains control over it. As a non-executive director, do you have the power or influence to prevent that? Also, I mentioned before, I have a suspicion that he's using this situation to manipulate me into communicating with him again, and I can't allow that to happen. I've blocked him from all my channels for a reason, and I want to maintain my distance."

He took a reassuring step closer, his voice filled with determination. "I get it, Sage. I'll do everything I can to prevent the app from falling into Henry's hands. I may not have full control, but I'll use my influence and connections to find a solution. You won't be forced into any unwanted communication. I'll prioritize your well-being and protect the app's vision."

Sage felt relieved, a small smile forming on her face. "Thank you, Kieran. I trust you to do your best. Let's present our case with strength, and no matter what happens, we'll find a way to keep the app with someone who respects its purpose and my boundaries."

Encouraged by their shared determination, they returned to the boardroom, ready to make their final stand.

----------

As the discussion resumed, the board members deliberated on the future of the app. After careful consideration, they reached a consensus—the Havel Group would acquire the app from Kieran at a substantial price as compensation for his company's efforts and resources invested in its development.

Sage listened to the decision, her heart pounding with mixed emotions. On one hand, she was relieved that the app would not fall into Henry's hands, ensuring her continued distance from him. However, as she contemplated the outcome, a tinge of sadness washed over her. It wasn't the prospect of parting ways with the app itself that saddened her, but rather the possibility of not working closely with Kieran in integrating the app with his company.

Over time, Sage had formed a strong bond with Kieran, appreciating his dedication, support, and shared vision for the app. They had become a formidable team, and the idea of not collaborating further with him felt like a missed opportunity. Their partnership had propelled the app's success, and the thought of not continuing that journey together left a void in her heart.

As she processed these emotions, Sage reminded herself of the bigger picture. The decision to join forces with the Havel Group brought numerous advantages and opportunities for growth. She understood that this collaboration would open doors to new resources, expertise, and a larger user base. It was a chance to take the app to new heights and make an even greater impact.

Still, she couldn't help but feel a sense of loss mingled with anticipation. It was a bittersweet realization that change was inevitable, and that she would have to adapt to a new dynamic. But deep down, Sage held onto the hope that her journey with Kieran and the app was merely taking a different path—one that would lead to even greater achievements and fulfillment.

Kieran turned to Sage, his expression a mix of understanding and resolve. Sensing the weight of the decision, he guided her to a quiet corner of the boardroom, away from the prying eyes and eager voices.

"Sage," Kieran began, his tone gentle yet resolute, "they've agreed to buy the app from me at a high price. It's a significant compensation, and it ensures that the app won't be under Henry's control. I believe this is the best course of action to protect your boundaries and the app's integrity. What do you think?"

Sage looked into Kieran's eyes, appreciating his concern and the trust he had placed in her. Her mind raced with thoughts and emotions, torn between holding onto something she had poured her heart into and the need to protect herself from Henry's influence.

Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes for a moment, gathering her thoughts. When she opened them, a sense of clarity washed over her. She knew deep down that Kieran's proposal was the practical and wise choice.

"Kieran," Sage said, her voice steady, "If you believe this is the best way forward, then I trust your judgment. Let's proceed with the sale and ensure that the app continues to thrive under new ownership. I understand the importance of protecting myself and the app's integrity."

Kieran nodded, a hint of relief in his eyes. and then he took her hand in his, offering a reassuring squeeze.  "Sage, I want to reiterate my promise to you. I will go above and beyond to protect you from any unwanted interactions with Henry," he declared, his voice filled with resolve. "I understand how important maintaining your boundaries is, and I'll do everything within my power to ensure your safety and well-being." 

Sage felt a rush of gratitude and relief wash over her, knowing that Kieran was resolute in his pledge to shield her from any discomfort. She appreciated his genuine concern and the weight of his words, knowing that he truly had her best interests at heart.

A small smile tugged at the corners of Sage's lips as she met Kieran's gaze, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and trust. "Thank you, Kieran," she replied, her voice soft yet filled with appreciation.

Returning to the boardroom, Kieran and Sage took their seats, their minds still processing the weight of the decision that had just been made. The air was filled with anticipation as Simon Havel, the chairman of the Havel Group, stood up once again, commanding everyone's attention.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Simon began, his voice commanding yet filled with warmth, "I want to express my gratitude to Kieran and Sage for their willingness to work with us on this matter. We recognize the value of the app and the expertise that Sage brings to the table."

He turned his gaze towards Sage, his eyes conveying a sense of respect and admiration. "Sage, we would like to offer you a position as a consultant, working closely with a team from the Havel Group. Your role will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition as the app is integrated into our operations."

Simon paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. "Rest assured, Sage, you will be compensated generously for your contributions, both as the app's designer and developer, and as a valuable consultant during this process. Your expertise and insights will be invaluable in ensuring the success of the app within the Havel Group."

Sage listened intently, a mix of emotions swirling within her. The opportunity to continue working with the app, even in a different capacity, excited her. It meant she could still contribute to its growth and see her creation flourish. At the same time, she felt a sense of validation in being recognized for her skills and expertise.

She glanced at Kieran, a silent acknowledgement passing between them. This was the best outcome they could have hoped for—a way to protect the app's integrity and her own boundaries while still staying involved in its journey.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Sage turned her attention back to Simon. "Thank you, Simon. I appreciate the offer and the opportunity to continue working with the app. I’ll do my very best to ensure a smooth transition, and support the apps integration into Havel group"

Simon nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Excellent. We look forward to having you on board, Sage. Let's work together to make this a mutually beneficial partnership."

As the meeting continued, discussions shifted towards the logistical aspects of the app's transfer and the collaborative efforts that would be required to integrate it successfully. 

As the discussions in the boardroom delved into the intricate details of the app's transfer, Henry's mind churned with a mix of ambition and determination. A cunning smile played at the corners of his lips, a telltale sign of the strategizing taking place within.

His gaze repeatedly drifted towards Sage, an unmistakable glint of longing and mischief hidden behind his eyes. Unbeknownst to Sage, Henry couldn't help but steal glances, his mind silently concocting plans on how to once again bring the project under his control.

While the room buzzed with logistical considerations, Henry's attention remained fixated on Sage. Memories of their shared past danced at the edges of his consciousness, fueling his desire to reconnect with her on both a personal and professional level.

However, as the discussion continued, Henry knew he had to bide his time. The Havel Group's acquisition of the app had set the stage for his eventual involvement, but he had to tread carefully to win back Sage's trust. He understood the importance of patience and subtlety, realizing that rushing in would only risk pushing her further away.

And so, with a mask of professionalism and a heart brimming with hidden intentions, Henry kept his glances fleeting, concealing his true motives for now. The allure of Sage and the potential of reclaiming the project were challenges he relished, and he was determined to seize the opportunity when the time was right.

Unbeknownst to Sage, a subtle dance of calculated maneuvers had begun, as Henry plotted his next move in the intricate game of winning her back.

Careful not to reveal his true intentions, Henry maintained a facade of cooperation and enthusiasm during the discussions. He skillfully inserted comments and suggestions that subtly positioned him as the ideal candidate to oversee the app's integration. His past accomplishments within the Havel Group and his familiarity with its operations served as a compelling argument for why he should take charge.

In private, Henry planned further, contemplating the steps necessary to win over the key decision-makers. He identified the individuals whose support he needed and crafted tailored approaches to sway them to his side. With every move, he carefully maneuvered, weaving a web of influence and manipulation to ensure that the app would fall into his hands.

--------

After the initial board meeting, Kieran and Simon Havel quickly arranged another meeting to introduce Aria Hayes as the new director for the app project. Two days later, everyone gathered in the boardroom, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

Simon Havel entered the room with a confident stride, followed closely by a poised and determined Aria Hayes. Sage's eyes met Aria's, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of reassurance and respect emanating from the new director.

"Thank you all for joining us today," Simon began, his voice carrying a tone of significance. "As we discussed in our previous meeting, we have appointed Aria Hayes to oversee the app project. Aria brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, and we believe she is the ideal candidate to guide the project forward."

Aria smiled at the team, her eyes filled with determination. "Hey, everyone! I'm really excited to be here. I've seen what you've accomplished so far, and I can't wait to work with all of you to take this app to the next level."

Kieran stepped forward, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "I've had the pleasure of working with Aria before, and let me tell you, she's a good manager. With her in charge, you’re in good hands."

Sage felt a wave of relief. She spoke up, her voice genuine and appreciative. "Thank you, Aria. It means a lot to have you on board. I'm confident that together, we'll make this app a huge success."

With the introductions done, the team left the boardroom, feeling motivated. Unbeknownst to them, Henry had been silently observing, waiting for his moment to make his move.

----------

Under Aria's capable leadership, the team meetings and integration of the app progressed smoothly. Her management style impressed the team, earning their respect and trust. They worked together seamlessly, addressing any challenges that arose.

Sage, still involved in the project's integration, visited the office twice a week to ensure everything was on track and manage her part. The team collaborated closely, discussing and implementing new features and upgrades that would enhance the app's value for the next update.

One evening, the team decided to have a casual dinner at the office. They ordered takeout and gathered around a long table, enjoying the meal together. Laughter filled the room as they shared stories and celebrated their progress. The camaraderie among the team members was evident, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

Unbeknownst to them, Henry, driven by his own hidden agenda, had been covertly observing their interactions. From a distance, he watched as they enjoyed their dinner, unaware of the plans he was formulating in the shadows. His gaze lingered on Sage, his mind filled with manipulative schemes to disrupt and seize control of the project.

----------

As Sage gathered the empty takeout containers into a trash bag, she realized she was the last one left in the meeting room. Aria had been called for an urgent online meeting and had hurriedly left, not noticing the time. The rest of the team had promised to take turns cleaning up, but Sage insisted it was no trouble and encouraged Aria to attend her meeting.

Carrying the bag of trash, Sage made her way towards the pantry. The office was now eerily quiet, with only a few executives scattered about, engrossed in their work. Unbeknownst to her, Henry was among them, lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to make his move.

As Sage entered the pantry, she was momentarily startled to find Henry standing there, seemingly by chance. A sense of unease washed over her, but she maintained her composure, reminding herself to stay vigilant. She had learned to trust her instincts when it came to Henry's intentions.

"Henry," Sage greeted him with a polite nod, keeping a safe distance. "What brings you here?"

Henry took a sip from his tea cup, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Ah, Sage, my dear. I work here, remember?" he replied with a hint of playfulness in his voice.

Sage raised an eyebrow, not easily swayed by his charm. "Yes, Henry, I'm aware of that. I meant, what specifically brings you to the pantry at this moment?"

Henry chuckled, a twinkle in his eyes. "Well, Sage, it's a rather revolutionary concept I discovered. They call it 'taking a break.' A remarkable practice that involves momentarily escaping the clutches of work to indulge in some tea and solitude."

Sage arched an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Tea in the pantry, Henry? That's an interesting choice."

Henry leaned against the pantry shelves, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, the pantry, the perfect spot for a break! It's where we escape from work for a moment, sip some tea, and grab a snack. You see, Sage, that's what the pantry is all about."

Sage chuckled, realizing the straightforwardness of Henry's response. "You're right, Henry. The pantry is meant for taking a breather and enjoying a refreshment."

Henry raised his tea cup, emphasizing his point. "Exactly! It's a place of respite where tea and snacks become our allies against stress. So, here I am, embracing the true purpose of the pantry."

Sage nodded, a smile on her face. "Well, in that case, I won't disturb your break any longer. Enjoy your time in the pantry, Henry."

Henry smirked, taking another sip of his tea. "Thank you, Sage. And remember, when you need a break, the pantry is always waiting for you.”

With a nod and a friendly smile, Sage left the pantry, amused by Henry's direct reminder of the pantry's true purpose as a space for snacks and taking breaks.

----------

After a long and exhausting day at work, Sage decides to treat herself to a well-deserved drink at a nearby upscale bar. She enters the establishment, appreciating the sophisticated ambiance and cozy atmosphere. She finds a comfortable booth and settles in, ordering a refreshing Magners cider and a couple of light beers, including a Stella Artois.

As she sips her drink, her mind drifts to thoughts of her work progress and the desire to eventually move on from the Havel Group. Lost in her contemplation, Sage is suddenly pulled out of her reverie by the appearance of Henry, who takes a seat across from her at the booth. She looks up, her expression shifting to one of cautious defensiveness.

Her guard up, Sage questions Henry's presence. "What are you doing here, Henry?" she asks, a touch of suspicion lacing her words.

Henry leans back, a casual smile on his face. "Ah, Sage, what a delightful surprise. Just enjoying my usual haunt, as it happens to be nearby," he replies, his tone laced with nonchalance.

Sage's eyes narrow slightly, not fully convinced by his explanation. "Your usual haunt, huh? Funny how we seem to keep running into each other."

Henry raises an eyebrow, his expression shifting to a more matter-of-fact demeanor. "Yes, Sage, quite intriguing indeed. You see, this particular establishment happens to be the nearest pub to our workplace. It's merely a matter of proximity and practicality."

Sage's mind acknowledges the sense in Henry's explanation, but a hint of doubt still lingers. She can't help but feel there may be more to his presence than mere coincidence. The way he effortlessly rationalizes it leaves her speechless.

As Sage takes a sip from her pint, contemplating her next move, Henry suddenly reaches out to grab her car keys from the table. Startled, Sage looks at him questioningly.

"What do you think you're doing?" she asks, her tone tinged with both surprise and suspicion.

Henry shrugs, a mischievous smile forming on his lips. "I can't let you drink and drive, can I? Safety first, Sage."

Sage chuckles, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. "Oh, how thoughtful of you, Henry. But let me remind you that you're here to enjoy your evening, not play the responsible driver."

Henry's smile widens, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Ah, you've got me there. I suppose I haven't started drinking yet. But don't worry, I'll hold onto your car keys just in case."

Sage stares at him for a moment, a mix of amusement and disbelief crossing her face. "Fine, if it makes you feel better. You can have my car keys. Just promise not to drive my car into any mischief, Henry."

Henry raises his hand, as if taking an oath. "I solemnly swear not to drive your car into any mischief, Sage. Your keys are safe with me."

With a smile and a shake of her head, Sage finishes her pint in one go and stands up. "Well, in that case, enjoy your evening, Henry. Don't get into too much trouble."

Henry grins, holding up Sage's car keys triumphantly. "No promises, Sage. Have a good night!"

As Sage walks away, she can't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Henry's playful antics always manage to catch her off guard.

Inside the pub, Henry watches Sage through the window glass, expecting her to put up a fight for her car keys. However, to his surprise, she doesn't. Instead, she calmly walks away, leaving him puzzled.

Curiosity gets the better of him as he continues to observe her. His eyes widen in disbelief when he sees Sage walk to her car and retrieve a spare set of keys from her bag. She effortlessly unlocks the car, and a realization dawns upon Henry. His assumption was correct all along.

A surge of urgency fills Henry as he realizes he needs to act quickly. He springs into action, his mind racing to catch up with the situation unfolding before him. He rushes out of the pub, determined to catch up with Sage before she drives away.

From the corner of her eye, Sage notices Henry's hurried departure from the pub. A mischievous smile tugs at the corners of her lips as she believes she has outsmarted him. With a sense of satisfaction, she locks the car doors using the interior locking mechanism and starts the engine, ready to drive off.

As Henry reaches the car, he notices Sage's smile and her deliberate ignorance of his presence. Undeterred, he knocks on the window, gesturing for her to open the door. Sage maintains her playful demeanor, continuing to smile and pretending not to hear him.

Little does Sage know, she has forgotten one crucial detail. Henry holds her other set of car keys in his hand. With a smirk on his face, he presses the unlock button on the key, sending a signal to Sage's car. To her surprise, she hears the familiar sound of the car doors unlocking.

Her triumphant expression quickly fades into a sigh of defeat as Henry opens the passenger door and smoothly slides into the passenger seat. Sage glances at him, a mixture of annoyance and amusement in her eyes. It seems her attempt to outmaneuver him has once again fallen short. Sage lets out a sigh, a mix of exasperation and amusement. "You always find a way, don't you, Henry?"

Sage lets out a tired sigh, leaning against her steering wheel as she looks at Henry, who is sitting comfortably in the passenger seat with a mischievous grin on his face. She raises an eyebrow and asks, "Alright, Henry, what do you want now?"

Henry's playful expression softens, replaced by a more serious demeanor. "Sage, all I want is for you to be safe. You've had a few pints, and it's not a good idea to drive in that state. Let me give you a ride home."

Sage lets out another sigh, her voice tinged with frustration. "Henry, if I were to give you what you want, sleep with you? would you finally leave me alone? Is that all this is about?"

Henry's expression turns somber as he registers her words, a mixture of hurt and longing in his eyes. "Sage, it's not just about that. I know I've made mistakes, but I want more than just a physical connection with you. I want you back in my life, not just as a passing flame , but to rebuild what we had. I want you back in every way possible."

Sage's chuckle escapes her lips, laced with a mixture of bitterness and understanding. She looks directly into Henry's eyes, her gaze unwavering. "You know, Henry, when I visited Thailand a few weeks back, I went to the temple to meet with an old sixth form classmate who was serving as a monk at that time. In the serene halls of a temple, he shared profound wisdom with me."

Henry leans in closer, captivated by Sage's story and the depth of her emotions.

Sage's voice quivers with a newfound clarity, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air. "He told me something that struck me to my core, Henry. He said, 'Before you tear yourself apart, take a piercing look at those you choose to keep close.' And in that moment, the truth unfolded before me like a devastating revelation. Henry... in that moment, I realized that you were a significant part of the pain and insecurity I experienced."

Henry's face pales as the impact of Sage's words hits him with full force. The realization dawns on him, a crushing weight settling upon his shoulders. He reaches out, his voice choked with regret. "Sage, I never meant to be the source of your pain. I never wanted to be the cause of your insecurity."

Sage's eyes glisten with unshed tears, a mix of sadness and resignation etched across her face. "But you were, Henry. You were the one who held the power to shatter my confidence and break my spirit.”  She pauses, her gaze piercing through him. " Yes you never cheated on me, but you tried to mold me into what you wanted, Henry. And when I refused to yield, you resorted to manipulative tactics to get me to do your bidding. You enjoyed making me jealous, playing with my emotions. And I can't bear to be caught in that web of uncertainty any longer. "

Her words hang in the air, the weight of truth finally spoken. Sage waits, hoping that her words will finally penetrate the layers of Henry's self-serving facade and make him realize the impact of his actions.

Henry's eyes widen as the weight of his actions sinks in. His lips part, searching for the right words to defend himself, but they fail him. He realizes now the damage he has caused, the pain he has inflicted, not through physical betrayal, but through emotional manipulation.

"I never meant for it to go this far, Sage," Henry finally manages to whisper, his voice laced with regret. "I thought I could keep you close by doing what I do, but I do see now how misguided and hurtful it was."

Sage's eyes shimmer with a mix of sadness and frustration. "Henry, love should never be a game. It should never be about making someone feel inadequate or insecure. It should be about trust, respect, and building each other up. I deserve better than this constant cycle of manipulation."

In that moment, the realization of their toxic dance settles upon them, a bittersweet recognition that they can no longer continue down this destructive path.

Sage's voice quivers as she takes a deep breath, her emotions palpable. "Henry... I've let you go, just like you wanted before. It's time for you to do the same for me." Her words hang in the air, heavy with finality and a tinge of sadness.

Henry's heart sinks at the realization of his own role in their breakup. The memory of that conversation, when he asked for the separation and suggested they explore other possibilities, resurfaces with a pang of regret. He never anticipated the depth of his feelings and the void that would consume him in her absence.

Henry's heart sinks at the thought of losing her. Memories of their shared adventures, the moments of joy and connection they once had flood his mind. He remembers the worry that consumed him when she embarked on her dangerous expedition to the summit of Mount Everest, how he yearned for her safety and well-being. The months without her presence, her deliberate blocking of him in every channel, had been excruciatingly difficult.

He buried himself in work, trying to distract himself from the void she left behind. He sought solace in the allure of freedom, parties, and the temporary flings with other women. But as time passed, the emptiness grew, and he realized that he couldn't let her go. Not without a fight.

Henry's voice cracks as he tries to articulate the depth of his regret. " I... I never expected it to be like this. I never realized how much I would miss you, how much I need you in my life. Please, give me another chance. I've learned my lesson in the hardest way possible. I've come to realize that I never wanted anyone else. It's always been you, even when I couldn't see it clearly. Please, don't give up on us just yet."

Sage gazes at him, torn between the pain of the past and the lingering love she still holds for him. She sees the sincerity in his eyes, the genuine remorse etched on his face. A part of her yearns to believe in the possibility of redemption and growth.

But another part of her fears the cycle repeating, the old patterns resurfacing. She takes a moment to collect herself, her voice soft but resolute. "Henry, I appreciate your honesty and the growth you've shown in recognizing your mistakes. But love is not just about the depth of feelings; it's about compatibility, trust, and mutual respect. The patterns that emerged in our relationship showed me that our needs and desires were not aligning. I don't need you to change who you are, but I do need a relationship that fulfills me in the ways I deserve."

She pauses, searching for the right words to convey her innermost sentiments. "I felt used, like a toy being played with, manipulated to fulfill your desires. And love should never make one feel that way. I don't want to resent you or view you as an enemy. Instead, I want to find a way to love you from afar, to wish you all the best, and to move forward in my own journey without holding onto the pain and resentment that clouded our relationship."

"Henry, I do care about you, and a part of me will always cherish what we shared. But I also know that I deserve a love that uplifts me and allows me to be my authentic self. And I hope you can find the same for yourself."

Henry's world shatters as Sage's words sink in. He realizes, with a heavy heart, that he has been madly in love with her all this time, but it's a realization that comes too late. The depth of his feelings for her hits him like a wave of regret, and he can't bear the thought of a life without her.

His voice quivers as he bares his soul, "Sage, I have to confess... I've been in love with you all along. Losing you has made me see how much I truly need you in my life."

His eyes glisten with unshed tears as he continues, his voice filled with raw vulnerability,  "I can't change what has happened, and I can't undo the mistakes I've made. But if you can find it in your heart to give us another chance, I promise to spend every moment making it right. "

Henry leans in closer, his voice barely above a whisper, "I know I messed up, and I can't guarantee that I won't stumble again. But if you're willing, I'll love you with everything I have. I'll be devoted to you, I -” 

Sage's looks away, heart aches as she witnesses the raw vulnerability in Henry's words and expression. Part of her longs to give in, to believe in the possibility of a renewed love. But her obstinacy remains resolute, a shield protecting her wounded heart.

She avoids meeting his gaze, her eyes fixed on the unmoving scenery outside the car. The weight of silence fills the space between them, the unspoken  tension hanging heavy in the air. Sage takes a deep breath, gathering her strength.

"Henry," she says softly, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and determination,  "Could please return my spare car keys," Without another word, Sage extends her hand, silently asking for her car keys back.

Henry's face falls, a mixture of resignation and heartache evident in his eyes. He reluctantly retrieves the spare car keys from his pocket, placing them in her outstretched hand. Their fingers brush briefly, a lingering touch that carries a world of unsaid emotions.

"Sage," Henry says, his voice filled with genuine worry, "I can't let you drive in this state. It's not safe. Let me take you home."

Sage chuckles weakly, shaking her head. "Have I not made myself clear, Henry? I appreciate your concern, but I'll manage. Please respect my decision."

Understanding dawns in Henry's eyes as he recognizes the importance of honoring her wishes. Reluctantly, he retracts the spare car keys, realizing that pushing her further would only cause more harm. He reaches for his phone instead.

"I may not have given up, Sage," Henry says quietly, his voice filled with a mix of determination and concern, "but what matters most to me right now is your safety. I'll call my personal chauffeur to drive you home in your car. Please accept this gesture, for your own well-being."

Sage looks at him, her expression softened by his genuine care. After a brief moment of consideration, she nods in agreement. Henry swiftly makes the call,  providing the necessary instructions to his chauffeur, and within minutes, his chauffeur arrives.

As the chauffeur approaches, Henry and Sage gets out her car. He opens the door of the passenger seat behind for her, a small gesture of care, and motioned for her to take the passenger seat in the back. Without a word, Sage gets in, her gaze fixed straight ahead.

Henry's heart breaks as he watches her retreat into the car, knowing that he must let her go for now. However, a flicker of hope remains within him, refusing to extinguish. He hasn't given up yet. As the chauffeur takes his position in the driver's seat and starts the engine, Henry's eyes meet Sage's.

Henry leans in, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, his voice laced with unspoken longing. "Please take care, Sage," Henry says softly, his eyes locked with hers,

Sage offers him a faint smile, a mix of gratitude and sadness. "Thank you, Henry," she says, her voice filled with a touch of vulnerability. "I appreciate your concern."

Henry watches, his heart heavy with emotions, as the car begins to pull away. His gaze lingers on Sage until her car disappears into the distance. 

A/N: In this chapter, we get to see just how determined and strong-willed Sage is. Her unwavering resolve and shining backbone leave us in awe of her character. And let's not forget about Henry! It's quite satisfying to witness him finally realizing his biggest mistake. But hey, I know some of you might be thinking, "Why can't she just forgive him already?" Well, I'm all for a good life lesson here. We want Henry to truly learn from his errors and grow as a person, don't we? Remember, regret can be a tough pill to swallow, but it plays a crucial part in Henry's personal journey. Let's keep rooting for both of them, knowing that growth and redemption often come hand in hand.

[viking-raider]

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT > PART THREE

Summary-> Alexa and Henry leave their villa to explore the beauty of Costa Rica, with an unblinking eye trailing behind them.

Pairing-> Henry Cavill/OFC (Alexa)

Word Count-> 5.7k

Parts-> I II

Warnings-> PG: Arranged Marriage, Language, Banter, Anxiety

Inspiration-> Nick and Vanessa Lachey’s Love is Blind on Netflix.

Author’s Note-> I hope you enjoy! Line divider by @FIREFLY-GRAPHICS!

-> If you would like to get notifications for my writing! Just follow my Tag List blog, @VIKING-RAIDER-TAGLIST as well as my @VIKING-RAIDER-LIBRARY and turn on the notifications for it! It’s that easy!’ Ao3-> Dragon_Dweller

– The Hike –

Alexa pulled her loose cotton, deep arm-hole tank top over her bikini, while Henry packed a day bag for them to take on their hike.

“Right, we're all packed.” He smiled, coming to stand in the bathroom doorway. “Figured we could stop in town for some lunch items, and if we need anything else before we head to the start of the trail.” He informed her, watching her tug on a pair of short, board shorts with a print pattern on each hip, over her bikini bottoms.

“I love the sound of that. We can also browse the local life.” Alexa smiled, a tingle in her stomach knowing Henry was distracted by seeing so much of her body.

“That sounds like a great idea.”

“Great.” She nodded, patting him on the chest as she breezed by him, into the bedroom; mentally reminding herself not to look at the camera that was there filming the whole thing.

With their little hiking bag packed and a rental car for them waiting in the drive, Henry and Alexa loaded up. Jesse followed them from a car in the back, having mounted a couple cameras in ideal places on the rental car to film them.

“Wow, this place is so gorgeous.” Henry commented, looking out the window as he drove them into town.

“Just wait until we hit the trails.” Alexa smiled, lounging back in the passenger seat. “It's a whole other world. It feels like you've been lost in some 18th Century adventure book; deep in the forest as you look for the coveted and cured gold of an ancient God, that the natives warn you not to go near.”

Henry looked over at her, smirking. “Bookworm?” He chuckled, teasingly.

“The word is, Bibliophile.” She corrected him, with feigned offense. “Thank you very much.”

“Oh, my apologies, Bibliophile.” He laughed, amused. “But, I can see it, this place does give you an enchanted feeling.” He sighed, as the town of Tamarindo came into view.

Tamarindo bustled with life, an assortment of shops, brightly colored and close together, showed their wares in windows, balconies and sidewalks. Signs announcing what each shop and pop-up cart was selling to whomever stopped by to look, from fellow tourists to locals.

Henry found a place to park and got out with Alexa, the both of them casting their eyes around, taking everything in and trying to pinpoint the place, or places, that would help them achieve their goal for a picnic on their hike.

“Something smells amazing.” Alexa commented, taking a deep breath and closing her eyes.

“Could be anything.” Henry chuckled, noting the several street vendors and restaurants.

“I need it.” Alexa said softly, her blue eyes slightly out of focus.

Henry looked down at her, cocking a brow at the almost manic look she had on her face. “Do you?” He asked, a soft smirk tugging up one corner of his lip.

“Yes.” She nodded, looking up at him with an eye twitch.

“You little gremlin.” Henry laughed, his whole body vibrating with its mirth.

“You best get used to it, Bowser.” She giggled back, before skipping forward in search of what she smelled.

Henry watched her skip off, his head cocked to the side as she paused at a stall with trinkets displayed on it, giving the woman running it a sweet smile as she did. He felt the embers of passion for her heat up even more, forming a teeny flame that Henry couldn't deny was the start of him really falling for her. Recalling himself, as Alexa looked back to see where he was, Henry moved to join her, nodding to the vendor.

“Hola, cómo estás?” She greeted him with a sweet smile.

“Hola, estoy bien.” Henry echoed with the limited amount of the language he knew, making her chuckle at his accented Spanish.

“These are so beautiful.” Alexa cooed, examining a black skirt with bright and colorful, intricate patterns along the bottom hem and inside. She looked up at the woman, holding up the hem for her to see. “You?” She asked, hoping the other woman understood what she was implying with her minimal knowledge of Spanish.

The woman smiled wide, understanding, and nodded with clear pride. “Sí.”

“How much?” She asked, brows raised.

“Treinta colón.” She answered, signing three and zero with her fingers in emphasis.

Nodding, Alexa dug into the little bag she had resting on her hip, retrieving the colónes that Riah had supplied her and Henry before leaving the house, supplying the woman the right amount of money for the skirt she had handmade herself. Taking the curled notes from Alexa's hand, she stashed them away in a locked box somewhere behind her stall, before motioning to Alexa to pick one of the skirts. Alexa peeked through them, admiring her craft and amazing needlework with the fabric. None of it lacked color and all of the patterns were unique in their own right, fascinating and awing her.

“What do you think?” Alexa asked, looking up at Henry for his opinion between the two skirts she was conflicted on.

“Hm.” He hummed, looking between them with a cocked brow. “They're both very beautiful.” He commented, reaching out to touch the cotton fabric. “Personally,” He said, finally. “I like this one. It's super colorful and seems like it would be...light and free. It makes me think of you.”

Alexa blushed, biting the inside of her lip at his comment, as she looked up at him, before looking down at the skirt he was referencing. It was red with a kaleidoscope of circular patterns, and blue top and bottom hems. Smiling, she picked that one out of the bunch, motioning to the woman that she had made her choice, and she nodded her understanding. Alexa and Henry moved on, observing the other stalls that lined the street and peeked in the windows of the shops, before they finally found the local grocery store and popped inside.

Grabbing one of little metal baskets, Henry and Alexa browsed the modest aisles, plucking up a couple things that caught their eye for their picnic. Something else grabbed Henry's attention as they reached the back of the store.

“Hey, I'll just be one second.” He said, resting his hand on the small of her back. “I'll meet you at the register.”

“Okay.” Alexa nodded, holding his gaze for a moment, before continuing on, grabbing a couple more things off the shelf, before she headed to pay for everything, tossing a glance over her shoulder to look for Henry, but only found Jesse following her instead.

But Henry appeared as she bagged their items, offering her an apologetic smile. “Sorry, I just wanted to check something out.” He told her, grabbing a few items and helping her put them in the plastic bag. “I'm looking forward to this hike with you.” He admitted, taking the bag and heading out with her. “Part of me wishes this was happening around the time the Durrell Challenge occurs.”

“When does that happen?” Alexa asked, curiously.

“It happened in May.” He told her, holding an arm out to stop her from crossing, as a car appeared up the street. “So, we missed it.”

“There's always next time.” She replied, watching the car go by. “Not like we won't be together.”

Henry looked down at her, struck. “That's more than true.” He answered softly, crossing and following her along the street, observing the shops as they made their way back to their vehicle. “So, wife, where is our trail?” He asked, reaching into the back, for the pack he had their stuff in and tucked their lunch inside.

“Right here.” Alexa answered, leaning over the center console to show Henry the map of the trail head. “It's part of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park.”

“Looks beautiful.” He commented, getting the address for the trail head and situating his phone on the dash mount. “So, our first day as husband and wife!” He grinned, navigating the road that ran parallel to the coast on one side.

“Yeah.” Alexa giggled, taking a photo of the gorgeous white sand and glittering, azure water. “How's it feeling?” She asked, shifting her camera's view to snap a shot of Henry, catching him off guard.

“It feels good.” Henry replied, giving her a shy and boy-ish expression. “It was a bit strange waking up to another person, and not either alone or to Kal snoring in my face.”

A laugh bubbled out of Alexa, her body scrunching up. “No, you just had me snoring in your face this morning.”

“Well worth the morning breath!” Henry chuckled back, teasing, watching the coast fall away the more inland they got.

“I don't have morning breath!” Alexa gasped, shoving him in the shoulder.

“Are you sure about that?” He smirked impishly, cocking a side brow over at her.

Alexa gasped again in outrage, mouth ajar. “Uh! How dare you accuse me of such things! I'll glue the toilet lid down from now on!”

“That's fine.” Henry replied, his smirking shifting into something even more devilish. “I have great aim.”

Alexa's cheeks colored, understanding his suggestion. “Naughty!” She cooed, batting her eyes at him, before glancing quickly over at the recording camera on the dash.

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Shoot!” Alexa nodded, twisting sideways to look at him.

“Do you have any nicknames you do or don't like going by?” Henry inquired, rubbing his palms over the steering wheel. “I don't mind being called Hen, Henners or Hank, but I loathe being called Harry.”

“Who calls you that!” She asked, outraged at the notion of someone calling him by that name, eyes twitching.

“I had a teacher at boarding school that did and sometimes, one of my uncles would.” He explained, shaking his head. “No matter how many times I told them I hated it and asked them not to.”

“I don't blame you! You don't have a Harry aura about you. Hen, yes. Hank yeah. But-” She took a deep breath and let it out in a huff. “Good grief. As for me, most of the people in my social circle call me, Alex or Lexi, which I'm totally cool with. There are people that call me, Lex, which I'm not really here nor there about. However, I don't like being called, Allie, it makes me think of alleyways, or one of my roadies desperately tried to make a thing of calling me, Lexus.”

She met Henry's eye. “I'm not a car.”

Henry snorted, laughing softly. “A car, you are not.” He agreed, smiling. “So, Alex, Lex or Lexi are cool to call you.”

“Yep.” Alexa nodded, liking the sound of her name rolling off his tongue, as she noticed the sign announcing the turn off for the National park just around the bend. “Almost there!” She declared, rather excited to go exploring and hiking on the trails with Henry. “This place is so beautiful.” She commented, as they got out of the car, the warmth of the beach was replaced by the cool, but humid, air of the forest around them.

“Yeah, it is.” Henry agreed, clipping their bag secure across his chest.

But not as beautiful as you. He thought, fleetingly.

“Are you going to be able to hike this, carrying that camera?” Henry asked Jesse, who was getting his own gear set up. “According to that park sign, the trail is seven kilometers in length. One way.” He informed the cameraman, concerned for his well-being as much as he was Alexa and his own.

“I'll be fine, bud.” Jesse replied, shouldering a bag that rattled with various filming equipment and a couple of things he brought for the hike, water bottle, food, bug spray and so on. “I've done wildlife documentaries in Antarctica. I'm sure a four mile hike around the volcano will be cake.”

“Making sure.” Henry said, before turning to Alexa, who was patiently waiting at the trailhead. “You ready, short-stuff?” He asked with a smile.

Alexa snorted and rolled her eyes. “More ready than you are, Bones.” She answered, then held up a trail guide pamphlet. “I scanned the QR code they have on the back, but just in case our mobile service goes nutty, I thought we'd bring the booklet with us too.”

“Sound idea, love.” He nodded, gave the trail ahead a look over.

She leaned in close to Henry, before whispering loudly. “If there's any spiders, I'm leaving Jesse to get eaten first.”

“I heard that!” Jesse barked behind them.

Alexa flashed him a sweet smile, then took the first step onto the trail. One small step on our hike, one giant step into the rest of our life. She thought, continuing with the assurance that Henry was right behind her.

“A bridge!” Henry announced as he rounded a bend in the trail, coming upon a rope bridge, just wide enough for one person to cross at a time, single file. “You think it's sturdy?”

“It looks like it.” Alexa answered, looking around Henry's arm. “I'm sure they wouldn't have it accessible if it was dangerous. Unless they have a thing for making their visitors feel like they're having an Indiana Jones experience.” She commented, half-jokingly.

“Fair enough, you go ahead first.” He said, stepping sideways on the trail.

“Oh, how gentlemanly of you, to let me plummet to the river below first.” Alexa quipped, moving by him, only to have Henry catch her wrist, his expression stony.

“Don't say that.” He snapped, his eyes glassy with horror.

Alexa's stomach churned at his expression, leaving her speechless for a moment, before she caught Jesse moving closer to them out of the corner of her eye and she scrambled to pull herself together again. “I was just kidding, Henry. I'm sorry.” She squeaked, gulping thickly as she pried his fingers from around her wrist and stepped onto the bridge.

That was so stupid! Why did I say that to him! She berated herself. Riah's going to juice her panties when she finds out. With how good it'll look, when the show airs. Stupid me creating an angst-y fuss, like some teenage drama.

The bridge wobbled a little bit as the three of them moved across the weathered slates at a steady pace, Alexa gripping the rope sides and daring to take a glance over the side, before quietly squeaking at the steep distance to the valley bottom and shooting her eyes forward, not looking down again. Henry's own eyes were on the back of Alexa's head, the whole time they crossed, taking slow, deep breaths and pretending the bridge wasn't as high off the ground as it actually was. In an attempt to control his fear of heights.

“Right, so!” Alexa sighed, after their feet touched solid ground again. “According to the app, the hot spring is this way and it's just before the waterfall.” She said, tracing the red line on the screen of her phone with her fingertip. “Do you want to see the waterfall first or do you want to hit the spring?” She asked, looking up at Henry, who craned his head over her shoulder to see the map, his hand gently resting on her side.

“Hm.” He hummed, eyeing the outlined trail, before looking up ahead of them. “Why don't we hit the waterfall first and have lunch there, so we can have a nice dip in the spring before we leave?” He suggested, looking back to Alexa. “That way we can have a nice rest period.”

“Sounds like a good plan.” Alexa nodded, pocketing the device and hooking her arm with his. “It's so gorgeous here.” She said, looking at the tall canopies above their heads, her ears picking up the sounds of the forest surrounding them. The call of birds, frogs croaking deep in their throats and insects buzzing in the humid air, with the occasional howl of a monkey deep and far off the beaten trail.

“It really is.” Henry agreed, drawing in a deep breath of the fresh, fragrant and cool air.

They pointed out sights to each other, plants and animals. Alexa became excited at one point, thinking she saw a little squirrel monkey, before it vanished in the trees. They snapped a couple of photos over the hour and a half it took them to go from the head of the trail to the rushing waterfall at the end.

“Oh my—Odin.” Alexa gasped softly, standing on a large, flat river rock as she gazed up at the fifty foot waterfall, the spraying mist at the top glittering in the sunlight, casting a rainbow-like halo at its drop off point. “I've never seen anything quite so magical.” She mumbled to herself, following the water into a basin of crystal clear water, surrounded by rough cliff walls covered in creeping vines and moss, slick algae and small trees that somehow managed to take root and grow out of cracks.

There were a couple of people around the edge of the pool, resting on rocks or clear, flat spots of the ground, with several others swimming in the water itself. Both Alexa and Henry looked at each other, then tossed at glance at Jesse, who hadn't stopped filming once, knowing they would attract attention the moment they got close. So, they moved around to the far side of the waterfall, where there were no people and found a decent spot to sit down and relax.

Henry set his pack down in front of him, unhooking his water bottle from the loop on the strap, while Alexa sipped at her own water, staring out over the pool with a whimsical and thoughtful expression.

“What are you thinking about?” He asked, before taking a big gulp of his icy water.

“Hm?” Alexa hummed back, blinking and turning her attention to him.

Henry chuckled at her. “What are you thinking about?” He repeated himself, unzipping the main compartment of the bag.

“I'm wondering how cool that water must be.” She confessed, her face giving away her interest in going for a dip.

“Hmm.” He purred back, narrowing his eyes at the water and considering the sweat running down his back, causing his tank top to stick to his skin as well as his curls to his forehead. “That's a good question.” He replied, closing the backpack and reaching for the back of his tank, pulling it off over his head and dropping it on the bag, before standing.

“Let's go find out.”

Alexa grinned, taking off her top and stood to wiggle out of her shorts, kicking them over to their bag as Henry's arm hooked around her waist. “Henry!” She cried out with laughter, breaking out into a massive grin as he carried her over to the water.

“You can go in with your insulin stuff, right?” He asked, as the water reached his calves.

“Yeah.” She assured him, squirming and wrapping her arms around his neck. “All water-proof.”

“Perfect.” Henry smirked devilishly, shifting his hands to Alexa's hips, hoisted her up and launched her into the deep end of the water.

Alexa gasped as she splashed into the water, disappearing under for a moment, before she pushed off the bottom and broke the surface again. “That's unfair!” She huffed, splashing Henry in the face as he moved towards her.

“Absolutely.” He nodded, carding his fingers through his dripping hair, pushing his curls off his forehead.

The two of them looked up at a cry that echoed down to them, finding a group of guys that had climbed to the top of the cliff by the waterfall, screaming their heads off and throwing their arms up, showing off to their group that had stayed down below, and who were returning their rowdiness. Alexa chuckled and looked at Henry, hooking an arm around his neck to support herself in the water and be close to him.

“Those guys are wild.” Henry commented, watching one of them take a running jump off the edge, feeling his stomach lurch as the guy plummeted and splashed into the water, heart clenching for a moment, waiting for him to resurface safely.

“And probably drunk.” Alexa giggled, gently pressing her lips to Henry's collarbone, as she held herself against his chiseled torso, feeling his palms squeeze and massage her hips. “If you try tossing me again, I will bite you.” She whispered against his skin.

Henry glanced down at her, cocking a brow with interest. “Is that a promise or a threat?” He asked, his own lips brushing the top of her head. “Cause, I'll gladly find out.” He said, a chuckle rumbling deep in his chest.

Fuck, I hope I'm not being too forward with her.

“Oh, you like that kind of thing?” Alexa teased him, smirking. “Superman likes getting nibbled on?”

His body reacted to her flirting, his throat bobbing as he swallowed thickly, and his blue eyes laser focused on her face. “I just might.” He purred, voice deepening as he leaned his head in close.

“Mmm.” Alexa hummed back at him, a sparkle in her eye while meeting him, feeling her heart skip a beat, knowing he was going to kiss her again. But she caught sight of Jesse wading into the shallows of the pool, camera poised on his shoulder and a soft smirk on his face, clearly understanding the moment. “You know what?” Alexa gasped, pulling away from Henry and treading in the water to keep herself up.

“I want to jump off too.” She told him, an impish smirk crossing her lips.

“Oh?” Henry frowned, confused by the mood change and sudden disconnect from her. “Is that safe?”

Alexa chuckled, splashing him. “They did it!” She called over her shoulder, swimming away to get out of the water and head up the small trail that led up to the top of the cliff.

She's crazy. Henry thought, debating if he should follow her up, to make sure she didn't get hurt on the way to the top and perhaps try and stop her or to just watch her jump from his spot in the water. She'll be fine. He tried to reassure himself, keeping his eyes fixed on the spot the group of men had been, when they jumped.

His heart calmed down slightly, seeing her pale head pop up among the lush greenery at the top of the waterfall, gazing down into the water below and waving at him with a huge smile. Henry smiled and waved back, hoping he didn't look too horrified for her well-being. Alexa surveyed the landscape from her vantage point and wished she had brought her phone up to snap a couple of photos, before jumping.

Taking a deep breath and taking a couple steps back, before taking a running leap off the edge, plummeting feet first into the water. Henry swam over, meeting her halfway back to where they had been.

“That was wild!” She giggled at him. “You should try it.”

“I don't know.” Henry chuckled, looking up at the spot. “It's pretty high.”

“I'll go with you!” Alexa said, trying to embolden him. “We could jump together!”

Henry bit his lip, then shook his head, flicking droplets of water from the ends of his curls. “Nope.” He declined, pressing his lips together. “No can do, darling.”

“Aww.” She cooed, before clicking her tongue at him. “All right. Fair enough, Sötnos.” She smiled, her eyes gentle and understanding.

“Sötnos?” Henry echoed, causing Alexa to giggle at his pronunciation of the word.

“Swat-noss.” She pronounced the word for him, slowly. “Sötnos.”

“What does it mean?” He asked, shaking his head as he tried to wrap his mind around it.

Alexa giggled, resting her hands on his shoulders. “It means a couple things.” She smirked, amused at the pet name, as she pressed herself against him, making him feel their size difference as they floated in the water. “Sweetheart. Sweet cheeks.” She explained to him, chuckling. “But the direct translation is, sweet nose.”

“You think I got a sweet nose?” Henry teased, leaning in to rub noses with her, making Alexa giggle even more. “I like it.” He told her, pulling back to look her in the eyes. “Would you teach me more?”

“Ja, of course.” She nodded, touched and excited that he wanted to learn more of her language and background. “You're going to need it, min mannen.”

“Great.” He smiled, before noticing the slight shake in her hands. “Are you all right?” He asked, taking one of them in his, pressing it between his palm and chest to seep some warmth into it. “Are you cold?” He inquired, the water was cool, but not chilly.

“No.” Alexa replied, shaking her head. “I'm just getting the shakes from my sugar starting to dip a little bit. I need to get out and eat.” She explained to him, her brow pinching as it hit her all at once.

“Let's go then.” Henry urged, wrapping an arm around her waist and guided them out of the water, back to where their pack and clothing was. “Here's water, I'll get our lunch out.” He said, opening her water bottle for her, before opening their backpack and started pulling out all the food.

Sipping her water, Alexa caught sight of something, as it fell out of the pack in Henry's rush to get their lunch ready, and reached for it. Picking up a short, plastic wrapped tube, the words printed on it were all in Spanish, but she had seen this type of container enough times in her life to know what it was.

“Did you buy glucose tablets?” She asked, looking up at Henry with a crease between her brows, holding them up for him to see.

Henry paused and looked at the tablets, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. “Ye-ah.” He answered, slowly gulping. “I-” He floundered to vocalize why his brain had told him it was a good idea to head towards the chemist aisle he'd seen at the store in town, to buy the capsule of ten, Raspberry flavored, glucose tablets.

What if you needed them, while we're on our hike or on the drive back to our Villa? He thought, still struggling to voice his fear that her blood sugar would drop to an unsafe level. What if they were the only thing that kept you from-- Henry forcefully shook the last thought out of his head, refusing to manifest it.

“I just—I just thought-” He took a deep, hard breath and looked back down at his task. “I don't know what I thought.” He mumbled under his breath. “It was stupid.”

Alexa's face fell at his words, closing her fist around the tablets, wanting to say something to him about how thoughtful it really was, but couldn't find the words. “What do we have for lunch!” She said instead, changing the subject for both of them.

Henry set out their wrapped sandwiches, along with the little containers of fresh fruit, slices of mango, watermelon and oranges, as well as a small cluster of grapes. They sipped their water and nibbled on their food, Alexa gazing around the forest that surrounded them, fascinated by the towering and knotted trees among the lush green plants, the sound of the waterfall behind them was so soothing and peaceful. She sighed softly, reaching out for another piece of fruit, her hand coming into contact with Henry's, as he did the same.

Their eyes met and Alexa felt Henry's fingers caress and trace her hand, like the touch from a ghost. It made her skin tingle and the breath in her throat caught. She didn't understand. They'd known each other for less than forty-eight hours and when Henry touched her, it was like nothing she'd felt before. Not with the boyfriend she'd been with for five years or a couple of attempted dates she'd been on since breaking up with said ex-boyfriend.

What is it about him? She thought, turning her palm up to his touch, her shoulders shuddering faintly as he stroked his fingertips over the heel of her palm to her fingertips. Why does his touch light my nerve-endings on fire and send sparks into my mind? What magic is he casting over me? Alexa reflected, swimming in the azure ocean of his eyes and trying to reach the tawny island at the top.

Henry in-turn was lost in her gaze, a gentle smile twitching and curling up one corner of his lip as he drove ever deeper into the arctic landscape he found there, mapping out the small flakes of minty-green that was close to her pupils. He was besotted with her, and it only dragged him down deeper as the seconds ticked past them. Henry had no answer to it either. Though, he was sometimes prone to falling in love quickly, and that sudden realization stabbed him in the stomach, like a red-hot knife.

Am I falling too quickly? Is this just a sudden flame, that'll burn out in a week or by the time our honeymoon is over?

His fingers faltered against her skin and Alexa noticed, a wrinkle forming between her brows as she watched the bright light in Henry's eyes fade and his expression panic, pulling his hand away from her.

“I'm sorry.” He whispered, waving to the food they'd intersected at. “Go ahead.” He said, patiently waiting for her to take what she was reaching for, before grabbing his.

“Henry--” Alexa started, wanting to know if she'd done something wrong.

“Do you still want to go to the hot spring?” He asked over her, clearing his throat, knowing how rude of him it was, but couldn't bear her asking him what she intended to. “I know we went swimming here.” He said, waving to the waterfall behind them.

Alexa licked her lips and glanced at the rushing water for a second. “I would still at least like to see it.” She replied, biting her lip. “If that's all right with you?” She added, looking at him with a conflicted expression.

“That's more than all right.” He answered, popping a grape into his mouth. “I'd like to see it as well.” He confessed, offering her a half-hearted smile, hoping to bring some peace back into their outing.

“Cool.” She rasped, picking up her shorts and stood up, pulling them over her damp bikini bottoms, not bothering with her tank top, and instead stuffed it into their bag. “I'm ready, when you are.” She told him, looking at her Dexcom app, making sure her levels were in an appropriate range.

“I'm ready.” Henry replied, packing what was left of their food away and stood with her, shouldering the bag and glancing at her phone. “Is that a good level?” He asked, looking at her.

“It's a hundred and fifty, now that I've eaten.” Alexa explained, turning the screen towards him. “So, that's a pretty decent range. Especially for me.” She said, before pointing to a number beside it. “It was a hundred and ten, before I ate, which is middle to low-ish side, before a meal. But, I'm perfectly fine now. So we can head to the hot spring and likely make it back to the Villa, before I need to eat again.” She told him, closing the app and pulling up the map to the hot spring from where they were.

“So, we need to get back on the trail we arrived here on, for a short while, until we reach that fork and turn left.” She showed him their route and Henry nodded, motioning for her to lead the way.

Alexa glanced behind her to Jesse, who frowned at her, clearly annoyed she kept staring into the camera lens, before moving forward. Henry took a deep breath, glancing above them as he reached out to hook his arm around Alexa's shoulders, pulling her a little into his side as they retraced their steps over the trail.

They reached the turn, branching out in the three different directions and headed towards the hot spring, and the closer they came to it, the more they could hear the rush of the thermal waters.

Coming through a thicket of trees and brush into the clearing, they discovered the steaming, volcanic-formed pool. Not quite so populated as the pool at the foot of the waterfall, but was still dotted with people. Some stood waist deep in the warm waters, while others sat on the rocks that surrounded it, their feet dipped in, admiring the multiple, little volcanic rock waterfalls that supplied the water for the spring.

“This place is so gorgeous.” Alexa commented, as she and Henry found a spot to sit and slip their feet into the heavenly warm water, with a soft moan.

“It truly is.” Henry agreed, slowly gliding his feet through the water and watching it gurgle down one of the falls.

Alexa gasped suddenly, grasping Henry by the arm and grew animated. “Henry!” She insisted, blue eyes round with wonder and surprise as she pointed into the tree tops across the spring, just as a sound filled the steamy air, like a high-pitched, song-bird-like call. “It's a Toucan.” She grinned at him, giddy for spotting the yellow-throated toucan.

“Oh wow, it is!” Henry nodded, narrowing his eyes at the small, long billed bird of paradise.

“When I was little, I wanted one as a pet, after seeing George of the Jungle with Brendan Fraser, cause Tookie-Tookie was my favorite.” She confessed, taking her phone out to snap a photo of it. “Other than Shep the elephant.”

Henry smirked at her, touched that she shared that teeny bit of information and memory with him, and was amused by it. “Is that so?” He asked, his eyes going back to the little black and yellow bird as it took flight off its branch.

“Yeah, I love animals.” Alexa nodded, a little deflated that the toucan flew off, before looking at the photos she'd taken of it. “I had considered becoming a Zoologist before becoming a musician.” She confessed, pressing her shoulder against his and lifting her phone again, its front camera open and showing her and Henry. “We haven't taken a single photo together.” She answered the startled and confused expression she saw on Henry's face through her phone.

“I'd like at least one photo with my husband, during our honeymoon.” She smirked at him. “If he'd indulge me?”

“Why would I not?” He cooed, his expression softening and posed with her to take the photo.

[arcielee]

Interview With a Writer

Thank you so much @aemondtarqaryens for starting off Volume 2 of my Interview With a Writer series! This is my ongoing series of the talented souls on Tumblr and ao3, and their brilliant writing!

If there is a story you are interest in, I am open to requests! Just make sure to check out my criteria for stories considered for this.

Name: aemondtarqaryens

Story: Precious Delights

Paring: Maegor Targaryen x niece!Reader

WARNINGS: See each chapter for individual, more precise warnings. Written with/for a female reader, but other than purple eyes, there‘s no mention of her appearance.

What inspired the plot for Precious Delights?

Oh God, truth be told? It started with a request I received for Maegor x Reader smut where she's heavily pregnant with his child. And I'm just a sucker for my big tiddy daddy and gave it a shot.

Once the original Precious Delights was posted, people commented under it, asking for a part 2 where the baby is born. The whole series just developed from there on and the rest is history.

I just loved their dynamic in the first part I posted (it's based on the bath scene between Aemma and Viserys, because it was just fitting and I liked that scene in the series) and felt captivated to give the few people interested what they wanted.

Explain your interpretation of Maegor? What drives him? Why is he the way he is in the story?

Charlie Hunnam is my faceclaim for Maegor because someone (I'm not dropping names cough cough @fairysluna cough) planted that seed into my mind. Most people fancast him as Aegon I, but to me, Henry Cavil makes a better Aegon I (you know, let's just cast Henry as every ASOIAF character lmfao).

I always had the relationship of Daemon and the young Rhaenyra we see in the show in my mind while writing this story. And we learn in Innate Desires that Maegor has lusted after his niece for quite some time, and even asked Aenys to give him her hand in marriage. He was denied, and searched his luck (or power) elsewhere, but failed with his wives dying without giving him an heir.

This is something that drives him, too. The need to provide an heir with his blood, that will take the Throne after him.

Canon!Maegor is one kind of a man, and while I find him intriguing, I firstly know that I could never do him justice and secondly, it just wouldn't have fit the story and it's overall development. Plus, having had a soft spot for his niece for so long, it's clear he's not always the brute he is towards her. He's softer, and allows her to catch some rare glimpses of his vulnerability as their relationship develops.

Was there anything in specific that inspired your Reader portrayal?

No, I feel like it‘s very self indulgent. Usually, the reader portrayals are matching their respective role (or I try to make it that way, at least) and with Targcest, I feel like you do have a bit more freedom to indulge. Just a freedom to be cheeky, or disobey certain rules.

Do you feel they eventually come to complement one another?

They complement each other. Maegor gives her something she‘s craved for so long, stability, family, attention, and Reader takes piece after piece of the brute out of him. Just like their children. They‘re not changing him completely, but they have a positive impact on him. She basically made the rogue brute soft and tender. 🤭

Will you add into their story?

Depends, if I really get another idea for this series maybe, but most likely not. It has found a good end, and everything else would be just dragging it out.

Do you want to share about another upcoming WIP? I know you finished celebrating a milestone for your blog (congratulations 💖).

Thank you!! I‘m currently working on the last two requests for my celebration, a one shot with Aemond and servant!Reader for a writing challenge I participated in, and a one shot of an American Horror Story x HOTD crossover where Aemond is the Antichrist.

Any chance we can have a snippet for Aemond!Antichrist? 👀

Easing your trembling legs, you hold onto the desk for support. It feels like an eternity when you crouch forward slightly to steady your uneven breathing, the moment only breaking as Aemond advances towards you, his body leaning against yours and pressing you up against the desk. It’s the only thing keeping you upright, and the moment you feel his hot breath caress your neck, your legs feel like they are about to give in. His thigh slips between yours, but you can’t feel his hands on your body, assuming he’s clasped them behind his back or keeps them at his sides. But you can tell that his chest isn’t the only firm thing that presses against your body. His cock is rock hard, clearly finding as much pleasure in the situation than you do, and all but strains against your lower back. He is so close, that’s all you’ve thought of for the past days, yet it’s not enough. You need his hands, him, to feel thoroughly satisfied. The urge to whine scratches in your throat, but you manage to swallow it at the last moment. “Beg for me to touch you,” he drawls, voice laced with a mixture of excitement and hunger. Exhaling a strained breath, you close your eyes. “P-Please,” you whimper, barely loud enough for him to hear. “Please… touch me. It’s been so long.” “Hm.” You hear it loud and clear, the amusement, the satisfaction, causing your skin to heat up. “That’s all you’ve got?”

[pascaloverx]

Masterlist

FANFIC: AS IT WAS (bucky barnes x oc); (steve rogers x oc) (+18) COMPLETE

*pictures credits are not mine, credits to their owners

SEASON ONE

chapter one

chapter two

chapter three

chapter four

chapter five

chapter six (M)

chapter seven (M)

chapter eight

final chapter

SEASON TWO

chapter ten

chapter eleven

chapter twelve

chapter thirteen

chapter fourteen (final)

ao3 link

[ana-swritings]

Landing

Hello, my lovelies. Here it is. The story I have been working on for the last few weeks. Hope you like it.

This is Book 3 of the "Flying" series. We are finally at the conclusion of the series. :)

Check it out and let me know what you think. :)

Love y'all,

Ana

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

Pairing: Henry Cavill x OFC

Fandom: Henry Cavill RPF

Words: 24.457

Fair Warning: Fluff; Angst; Hurt; Royalty AU; Anger; Comfort; Romance

Summary: After pushing the woman he loves away, Henry has to battle with his feeling for her and questions if he has done the right thing. Meanwhile, Bella continues to refuse Alexander's advances but things are going to take a horrible turn when a diplomatic mission goes sideways. Will things ever get back to what they used to be? Will Henry and Bella finally find their happy ever after? Or will fate tear them apart forever? Read the final book in the "Flying" series to find out what happens to our heroine and the man she loves.

Prologue

Alexis watches him leave, tears in her eyes, before turning back to the Castle, refusing to accept that this is the end. “This can’t end like this. It just can’t.”, she thinks, as tears begin to fall and sobs rake her body.

***

Henry rides away, back to where his men are waiting, his heart broken by having to leave Bella and Alexis behind. He signals his men forward, wanting to return home and leave this pain behind.

As he rides down the tree flanked dirt road that eventually will lead him to the border between both Kingdoms, Henry wonders what his life could’ve been like if he and Bella had had a fair chance at being together, if things didn’t get as messy as they did.

He knows that with his reputation it would be an uphill battle, but knowing Bella, it would be one that she would be more than prepared to fight, if it meant they could be together.

Maybe he should turn his horse around and do exactly what Alexis had asked him to do. Maybe he could fight for Bella, show her that the man that Alexander wanted her to believe he was, isn’t the man that is so deeply in love with her. Maybe it isn’t too late for them.

Henry kicks himself mentally. He knows he’s wrong, the damage Alexander did can’t be so easily undone. Because of it, Bella will always doubt him, even if it’s just a little, when it comes to him and his reputation. There’s nothing he can do about that.

He shakes his head and decides that all he can do now is try and forget Bella, allowing time to get things back to what they were before he decided to try to court Bella, no matter how much it hurts.

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

Hope you enjoyed it. :)

To continue reading, go here. :)

If you'd like to give me a tip, you can buy me a coffee here. :)

For all my works, please check out my vault here. :)

[peyton-warren]

Blinded by The Fog Series

How the loss of the love of your life led you to the arms of the man of your dreams.

Summary: Reeling from the loss of your husband in a tragic accident in Bolivia, you throw yourself into caring for the other women left behind, avoiding your own care. Along the way you meet another Army Captain who helps you see you should be cared for too. You grow closer to the new man in your life only to find out a few months later that your husband is actually alive but in hiding.

Fandoms: Sand Castle & The Losers (Also Henry Cavill and Chris Evans Characters)

Characters: Jake Jensen x f!reader, Syverson x f!reader, Franklin Clay, William Roque, Cougar, Pooch, Jolene and OCs.

Warnings: 18+ only, minors DNI, grief, loss of spouse, loss of found family, insecurity, self doubt, guilt, pregnancy, infertility, miscarriage, cheating (if unintentional), male on male violence, military-style violence, sexy times, age gap (male early 30s, female early 20s) Each chapter will have specific warnings.

Chapters

Part 1 , Part 2 , Part 3, Part 4 , Part 5, Part 6 , Part 7, Part 8, part 9

Part 10 Coming soon

Asks

Director's Cut- Behind the Scenes I - Syverson's perspective during Parts 4, 5 and 6. Playlist

Drabbles

(Mostly about Reader and Jake's lives, in chronological order, not posting order)

High School

Starry Night Drabble

Jensen realizing he’s in love

Reader realizes Jensen is her goober

Scarf Drabble

College/Military training years

Baking Drabble

Cookies Drabble

Established Relationship

Silence Drabble

Hot Chocolate Drabble

Who Stole My Homework?

Author's Note:

Original prompt from an online plot generator -

"You are the wife of a soldier who is missing in action and presumed dead. His best friend, who survived the war, offered you comfort and companionship, and over time love blossomed. A year later, you learn that your husband is alive and is coming home. Now you must confess to him that you have moved on—or have you?"

I mean who else was I going to put into that prompt??

Playlist Songs that remind me of this series and/or I've been listening to while writing it. Will update occasionally until the series is done.

Masterlist

Asks are always open. Click here for all posts related to this tale.

[msilwrites]

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - SIX

A/N: Some dry humor, surprising revelations, and a deeper look into Henry's manipulative and tactical nature. 

Face Claim Cast:

Auryn Sorenson - Matthias Shoenaerts (A/N: I actually chose him to play the younger brother because he bears a resemblance to Mads)

Defying Desire

SIX

"So you were professionally-zoned," Charles remarks, unable to contain his frustration as he brings up Sage, his father's recent date that he met a week ago when he dropped by their old home.

Kieran's face reddens slightly as he tries to find the right words. "Well... you see, I couldn't just let that app slip through my fingers, and I..."

Vi interrupts with an exasperated sigh, her voice filled with both seriousness and humor. "Da, seriously? You couldn't resist talking business with someone you were interested in? You should have been whispering sweet nothings, not analyzing profit margins!"

Auryn, trying to make sense of the situation, raises an eyebrow and looks at his older brother. "Wait, hold on. Are you telling me you actually started dating someone? And this is how it went down?"

Vi, still frustrated with her father's tendency to mix business with romance, seizes the opportunity to remind him of a past dating blunder. Her voice carries a mischievous tone as she says, "And what about Ms. Ingrid Hawkes, Da? Remember how you let her slip through your fingers? It was the same story. Instead of wooing her, you were too busy talking shop. You've got a thing for these clever, capable women, but can't seem to close the deal!"

The table erupts into laughter, the tension dissipating with each chuckle. Kieran, his face still slightly flushed, joins in the mirth, realizing the comical predicament he found himself in.

Vi's voice turned serious, "Da, I have to wonder, are you intentionally seeking out girlfriends who have a tendency to shoot you? Is it some sort of bizarre criteria you have for a successful relationship? 'Must be capable of wielding a firearm and willing to use it if things go wrong.' Is that what you're looking for?" She paused for a moment, "Maybe you should consider revising your dating checklist, just a thought."

Charles and Auryn erupted into laughter, their shoulders shaking as they recalled the infamous incident of Kieran getting shot during his time as the Section Chief at an government intelligence agency. While it had been a frightening and serious ordeal back then, the passage of time had allowed the family to find humor in the situation. Now, they couldn't resist teasing Kieran about it, sharing exaggerated versions of the story and playfully imitating his shocked expression. It had become a lighthearted inside joke within the family.

Kieran raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, Vi, I suppose I have a unique taste in women. After all, nothing says 'relationship material' like someone who's willing to shoot me in the name of love." He shrugged, a wry smile playing on his lips.

Vi raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Dad, I think it's time you give up on finding a girlfriend who's like your ex. Let's aim for someone who designs beautiful things instead of designing dangerous missions. Trust me, it'll save us from any unexpected explosions during family dinners," she quipped, earning a round of laughter from her brother and uncle.

Kieran chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "Vi, my darling, I've had my Let's just say I've learned my lesson. From now on, I'm on the lookout for someone who is more 'designer dress' than 'secret agent attire.' No more bullets, just beauty!" He grinned, adding a wink for dramatic effect.

The family burst into laughter, their amusement echoing through the restaurant. Vi couldn't help but roll her eyes playfully at her father's quip. Charles erupted into uncontrollable giggles, almost causing him to spill his drink. Even Auryn, typically composed, couldn't help but chuckle and shake his head

Charles chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Hey, Da, don't give up just yet, You can still break free from the professional-zone. Take her on a romantic date, show her a side of you that's not all business. It's time to switch gears and make your move!"

Auryn, with his dark blond hair catching the light, leaned forward inquisitively. "So, Kieran, spill the beans. What's the deal with this app and the woman you're into? I'm dying to know what's got you so hooked."

Charles, always tech-savvy, grabbed his phone and began furiously typing. "Alright, let me do some detective work here. Give me a sec... Ah, got it!" He paused for a moment, his eyes widening in recognition. "Hold on a second. This is that community app everyone's been raving about, right? It's got a huge following and people seem to love it."

The rest of the family leaned in, their curiosity getting the better of them. They exchanged glances, excitement brewing as they realized the significance of the app and its connection to Kieran's romantic interest. The conversation veered off into a lively discussion about the app's practicality and the woman who brought it to life.

Auryn's curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn't help but ask, "Hey, Kieran, do you have a picture of her? I'm dying to see what she looks like."

Kieran shrugged, a sheepish smile spreading across his face. "Actually, I don't have a picture of her. We've been so engrossed in conversations and getting to know each other that we haven't really taken any pictures together."

Auryn's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, you're interested in her, and you don't even have a picture? How can you not have a picture, Kieran? That's like, the first thing you do!"

Vi chimed in, playfully scolding her father. "Honestly, Da, I thought you were better than this. How can you be interested in someone and not have a single picture to show? You're slacking, my friend."

Meanwhile, Charles, ever the resourceful one, simply tapped away on his phone, his fingers dancing across the screen. "No worries, guys. I've got this. Let me just work my magic and find out everything there is to know about her."

As Charles delved deeper into his online search, his eyes widened with excitement. He discovered Sage's designer profile, showcasing an artsy black and white photo of her. The image portrayed her beauty and creativity in an enchanting way. Without wasting a second, Charles eagerly showed the photo to his sister and uncle.

Vi's jaw dropped in awe as she admired Sage's stunning image. "Wow, she's gorgeous! Da, you really know how to pick 'em!"

Auryn, on the other hand, had a different reaction. His eyes widened in surprise as he recognized Sage. "Wait! That's Sage Lennox," he exclaimed, unable to contain his astonishment.

Kieran looked at his younger brother in confusion. "How do you know her, Auryn?"

Auryn's eyes widen, and he fumbles for words before finally admitting, "Well, we actually had a certificate class together at UAL." His voice trails off, and there's a hint of nostalgia in his tone, suggesting a deeper connection.

Vi, sensing her uncle's hidden feelings, grins mischievously. "Oh, Uncle Auryn had a secret crush, didn't you?"

Auryn's cheeks turn a shade of pink as he tries to deflect the attention. "It was just a passing fancy. We were both focused on our studies, and nothing more."

But his frustration quickly surfaces, and he adds with a hint of annoyance, "Although, I have to say, it was frustrating to see how Sage was being treated back then. I witnessed a few heated arguments between her and that Henry Havel,” (A/N: I actually changed their surnames a bit)

Vi, always quick to pick up on the dynamics, teases him with a mischievous smile. "Oh, Uncle Auryn, your jealousy is showing!"

Charles, intrigued by the mention of Henry Havel, asks curiously, "Who is this Henry Havel?"  His tone carries a hint of skepticism  "What does this man even have that would make a beautiful woman like Sage put up with him?"

Kieran, being a non-executive director at the same company Henry works in, answers with a knowing smile. "Henry Havel is one of the executive directors for Havel Group, a conglomerate in the industry. I've crossed paths with him a few times during my work there. He is actually from the branch family of the Havels. While his grandfather founded Havel Group, he is not the heir to the conglomerate. But he holds a significant position as an executive director in the company."  Charles raises an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "So, he's not the main heir, but he still has influence within the family business. I wonder what qualities or connections he possesses to capture Sage's attention."

Kieran, who is familiar with Henry's reputation, chuckles and nudges his son playfully. "Well, Henry is a capable guy, but why don't you go find out for yourself? Look up Henry Havel and see what you can dig up. I have a feeling you might be surprised."

Vi, unable to resist her curiosity, leans over to take a peek at the screen. However, instead of a mischievous grin, her expression softens with a hint of sadness. "Yep, he looks like trouble! No wonder Sage fell for him."

As Vi's words hang in the air, Auryn's eyes narrow slightly, and a trace of jealousy tugs at his heart. He clears his throat, trying to mask his emotions. "Well, I'm sure Sage saw something in him that others didn't. People can be drawn to different qualities, after all.

Kieran, adds. "It's not uncommon for people to be attracted to charm and charisma, my dear. Unfortunately, Henry is a looker too. The good news is, she is no longer in that relationship" Auryn nods sadly, agreeing with what his brother said. "Yes, and you just had to be the one to capture her attention. I can't believe you let her slip away." scolding his brother.

Vi notices her uncle's wistful look and pokes him playfully. "Oh, come on, Uncle Auryn! You're an award-winning designer with those gorgeous blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. You've got your own set of qualities that can make hearts flutter."

Charles joins in, teasingly nudging his uncle. "That's right, Uncle. Don't underestimate yourself. You're quite the catch."

Auryn looks at his nieces and nephew, a mix of amusement and mock seriousness on his face. " Are you suggesting that I should become your father's arch-nemesis in matters of the heart?  But sorry, my dear ones, I prefer to maintain my position as the beloved and oh-so-cool uncle.”

Kieran joins in the teasing with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Oh, Auryn, don't worry. I'm not threatened by you becoming my romantic rival. I think I can handle a little friendly competition."

Auryn chuckles, shaking his head. "You're quite confident, aren't you? But remember, if you don't make a move to win her back soon, I’ll really go after her myself”

Vi and Charles exchange mischievous glances, sensing the playful rivalry between their father and uncle. They raise their fists in the air and cheer, "Fight, fight, fight! Da vs Uncle!!"

Auryn raises an eyebrow, feigning offense. He rolls his eyes at their antics but can't help but smile. "Alright, alright, settle down, you two. Let's not turn this into a full-blown competition. I was just teasing your father." "

Kieran joins in the banter, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Indeed, let the best man win, may the odds be ever in your favor, Auryn."

Auryn raises an eyebrow, his expression a mix of disbelief and amusement. "You too, Kieran? Seriously? I can't believe I'm being challenged by my own brother. This is getting out of hand."

Auryn's initial surprise quickly turns into laughter as he joins his brother Kieran in their shared amusement. They both chuckle, their laughter echoing in the room.

----------

Henry sat in his private office, engrossed in the stack of documents spread out on his desk. The room was filled with an air of focused determination as he meticulously reviewed each page. Suddenly, he sensed a presence and looked up, finding his secretary standing in the doorway.

The secretary, a young woman with a professional demeanor, couldn't help but steal a quick glance at Henry. His striking looks and undeniable charm were hard to ignore. Henry, accustomed to the effect he had on people, simply offered her a polite smile before returning his attention to the documents.  Despite his reputation as a charmer, when it came to work, Henry made sure to maintain a focused and professional environment.

Unfazed by his good looks, the secretary maintained her composure and approached Henry's desk. She held a file in her hands, ready to assist him with any tasks he required. Her admiration for his appearance didn't overshadow her focus on her job.

Henry looked up, meeting her gaze, and nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Lydia. Please place those documents on my desk. I'll review them shortly."

Lydia, displaying a level of professionalism that matched her poise, smoothly placed the file on Henry's desk. She stood confidently, ready to address any further instructions or inquiries.

As Henry skimmed through the documents, his eyes widened with surprise. Among the papers, he noticed a file bearing the logo of Sage's app. Memories of their past and the recent encounter with Sage and Kieran resurfaced in his mind. “Lydia? can you tell me more about this?”

Lydia, maintaining her professional demeanor, nodded and spoke in a composed tone. "Certainly, Mr. Havel. The app in question has been recently acquired by one of our non-executive directors, Kieran Sorenson. He saw potential in it and decided to make the acquisition for his own company."

A week ago, outside the lounge bar, Henry had caught sight of Sage and Kieran together, their easy camaraderie and connection evident. It had stirred a mix of surprise, jealousy, and regret within him. Now, with the knowledge that Kieran had acquired Sage's app, a sense of rivalry ignited within Henry.

The knowledge that Kieran had acquired Sage's app further intensified Henry's drive to prove himself superior, both in business and in matters of the heart. He couldn't let Kieran's success with the app go unchallenged.

Realizing the importance of the matter, Henry knew he had to bring it to the attention of the board. With a cold smile, Henry looked up at Lydia. "Lydia, inform me immediately when the next board meeting is scheduled. I have an important matter to discuss with the directors."

Lydia, sensing the shift in Henry's demeanor, nodded briskly. "Of course, Mr. Henry. I will ensure you are promptly informed of the board meeting arrangements."

With a calculated glint in his eyes, Henry turned his attention back to the file. He would seize this opportunity to outmaneuver Kieran and bring the app into the hands of Havel Group.  He saw the acquisition of the app as a strategic move to bring Sage back into his life. With careful planning, he intended to smoothly transition the app to Havel Group, using the opportunity to reconnect with Sage on both professional and personal levels. Henry's calculated approach as an executive director would allow him to leverage his charm and unwavering pursuit, ensuring a chance to rewrite their story together.

---------- 

Kieran, dressed in a sharp dark blue suit, entered the meeting room with a file in hand. As he stepped inside, he found the executives and directors engaged in casual conversation, setting a relaxed atmosphere before the formal meeting.

With a friendly smile, Kieran greeted his colleagues one by one, exchanging pleasantries and brief updates. The room buzzed with anticipation, knowing that an important discussion was about to take place.

"Good morning, everyone," Kieran said, his voice carrying a confident yet warm tone. "I hope you all had a productive morning so far." 

The executives reciprocated the greeting, some nodding in acknowledgment, while others engaged in small talk.

As the room quieted down, Simon, the esteemed leader of the Havel Group, stood up and addressed the gathered executives.

"Good morning, everyone," Simon began, his voice carrying authority and respect. "Today, we have an important topic to discuss: the recent acquisition made by our non-executive director, Kieran Sorenson."

All eyes turned to Kieran, who sat confidently, ready to present his case.

Simon continued, "Kieran, we appreciate your entrepreneurial endeavors and your role as a non-executive director. While this acquisition was made for your own company, it is important for us to understand the nature of the app and its potential impact on the market."

Kieran nodded, understanding the purpose of the meeting and the need to provide transparency regarding the app acquisition. He took a moment to collect his thoughts and then began to present a comprehensive overview of the app, highlighting its potential benefits, market opportunities, and how it could contribute to the growth of his own company.

As Kieran spoke, Henry, with a calculated glint in his eyes, listened intently. He saw the potential of the app as not just a standalone venture but as a means to undermine Kieran and regain his connection with Sage, his ex-girlfriend and the app's designer.

With every passing slide, Henry's mind raced, devising a plan to outmaneuver Kieran and bring the app into the hands of Havel Group. He saw the acquisition of the app as a strategic move to assert dominance and challenge Kieran.

Henry, leaned back in his chair, a subtle smile playing on his lips. As Kieran confidently presented the app's features and market potential, Henry's mind raced with thoughts of how he could undermine his rival.

"Thank you, Kieran, for the overview. It's evident that your acquisition holds promise," Henry began, his tone calculated and deliberate. "However, I couldn't help but notice the striking resemblance between your app's features and our own successful online retail division."

An undercurrent of concern rippled through the room as Henry continued, pointing out the potential conflicts of interest that such an acquisition might bring. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding their existing operations and partnerships.

Kieran maintained his composure, though a flicker of worry crossed his eyes. He understood that Henry had a valid point.

Undeterred, Henry pressed on, his voice carrying an air of authority. "Before making any decisions, I propose that we thoroughly evaluate the strategic alignment and potential synergies. We must prioritize the growth and stability of the Havel Group above all else."

The board members exchanged wary glances, recognizing the weight of Henry's words. His calculated attack had successfully cast a shadow of doubt over Kieran's acquisition.

With a self-satisfied expression, Henry leaned forward, locking eyes with Kieran. "I trust that you understand the implications of your decision, Kieran. It is imperative that we proceed with caution and prioritize the best interests of the Havel Group."

Kieran, determined to address Henry's concerns, responded with measured words. "Henry, I understand your perspective, but let me clarify that the app is not a direct competition to our online retail division. It functions as a community platform, enabling individuals to sell their used items, offer services, and connect with potential buyers. It fosters a sense of community and facilitates peer-to-peer transactions."

Henry's confidence remained unwavering. "Kieran, I acknowledge your perspective, but let's not underestimate the impact this app can have on our online retail division. While it may not be a direct competitor, it still poses a threat. People turning to this app for buying and selling their used items means they won't be turning to our online platform."

Kieran held his ground, recognizing the need to defend his position. "Henry, we have an opportunity here to tap into a different market segment. This app is about community engagement and convenience. It can bring new customers and work alongside our existing operations."

Henry leaned back in his chair, skepticism etched on his face. "I appreciate your optimism, Kieran, but let's not overlook the potential risks. We must consider the possibility of resource diversion, customer overlap, and the need to allocate our efforts wisely."

Taking a deep breath, Kieran sought common ground. "Henry, I propose that we conduct a thorough analysis of the app's potential impact and explore ways to collaborate rather than compete. We can establish guidelines to ensure a mutually beneficial relationship between the app and our online retail division."

Henry listened intently, his mind already devising a cunning plan. Leaning forward, he sported a calculated smile on his lips.

"Kieran, I understand the potential value of this app, and I appreciate your entrepreneurial spirit," Henry began, his tone measured. "Instead of viewing this as a competition, why don't we explore a partnership? Havel Group has the resources, market reach, and expertise to help scale this app to new heights."

Kieran raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Henry's proposition. "A partnership? How would that work?"

Henry glanced at Simon, his elder brother and the leader of the Havel Group, who had been quietly observing the discussion. Sensing the strategic potential in Henry's suggestion, Simon spoke up.

"Kieran, Henry's proposal is worth considering," Simon interjected, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "The collaboration between our companies could lead to a synergy where the app can thrive while aligning with our broader business objectives."

Kieran turned his attention to Simon, his curiosity piqued. "Simon, I appreciate your perspective. But how can we ensure that the app's unique community-focused approach remains intact within the partnership?"

Simon nodded, understanding Kieran's concerns. "Kieran, we value the app's core values and its connection with its user base. We can establish a joint committee consisting of representatives from both our companies to oversee the partnership. This committee will work together to define and safeguard the app's unique identity while leveraging the resources and expertise that Havel Group brings to the table."

Kieran contemplated the proposal, weighing the potential benefits against his initial reservations. "If we can find common ground and maintain the app's integrity, then a partnership could be a viable path forward."

Simon extended his hand towards Kieran, signifying their agreement. "Let's explore this further, Kieran. I believe there is immense potential in joining forces and charting a new course together."

As Kieran shook Simon's hand, Henry observed with a mixture of satisfaction and anticipation. The board's support for his proposition indicated that his calculated approach was paying off. The path to a strategic partnership was now open, and Henry's plan to bring the app into the hands of Havel Group and reconnect with Sage seemed within reach.

A/N:  In this chapter, we witness the extent of Henry's capabilities and cunning nature as he strategically navigates the boardroom discussion and manipulates the situation to his advantage. Do share your thoughts and opinions on Henry's character and actions. Do you find his tactics impressive, or do they border on the line of being creepy or obsessive? Let us know your perspective in the comments below. Enjoy the chapter, and I'll be making some minor edits for clarity and flow.

[angryschnauzer]

I posted 5,272 times in 2022

345 posts created (7%)

4,927 posts reblogged (93%)

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I tagged 99 of my posts in 2022

#henry cavill - 20 posts

#valentines ask - 12 posts

#chris evans - 7 posts

#henry cavill x reader - 7 posts

#henry cavill x you - 6 posts

#henry cavill smut - 6 posts

#chris evans x you - 5 posts

#chris evans smut - 5 posts

#chris evans x reader - 5 posts

#submission - 5 posts

Longest Tag: 110 characters

#those chips you find under the steak that have soaked up all the amazing flavours and are now drenched in mayo

I personally find this hilarious that i tag so few posts and the biggest one is about food lol

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

Beast and the Beauty

Summary: Life with your prim and proper boyfriend Humphrey is luxurious but boring, so you try and spice it up a little. However when he’s delayed at work one night and you end up getting locked out of your apartment, your neighbour Sy comes to your rescue and makes your evening a whole lot spicier.

Fandoms: Henry Cavill, Stardust Movie (modern day AU), Sandcastle Movie

Pairing: Syverson x Reader, Humphrey x Reader

Warnings: NSFW, 18+, cheating, dubious consent, morally grey situation, oral sex (female receiving), Oral Sex/Blowjob, Fingering, Sex Toys/Buttplug, Rimming, Unprotected Sex, Vaginal Sex, Rough Sex, Squirting, Cream Pie, Sloppy Seconds, Anal Play, Anal Creampie, hints at cuckolding.

I do not run a tag list, instead please follow @angryschnauzerwrites​ and put that blog onto notifications. Henry Cavill Masterlist

A/N: This is another story that i started months ago and had langished in writers block purgatory. Originally i had intentions of making this dom/sub, but that kept making me stumble. Instead this is simply rough sex with a dominant male. Female reader is fairly sassy and would not be considered a ‘sub’ generally. A/N 2: At one point i describe Sy wrapping his fingers into the readers hair. I kept this as un-descriptive as possible so to include as many different types of hair, only mentioned that its tugged at the roots, which i believe would work with any hairstyle with the exception of hair shorter than 2cm/1inch.

Beast and the Beauty

“Darling, i’m so sorry, but this could really advance my standing with the company, they’ve only just let me handle the big construction account”

You sighed at your boyfriend's words. You’d been looking forward to him coming over tonight, had bought the things to cook dinner and had prepared a few things to spice up the evening afterwards. But you knew he wanted to succeed and climb the corporate ladder, and going to ‘the club’ for drinks with the high flyers in corporate would get his foot in the door.

“Humph its fine, we can do it another night”

“Darling, you’re an absolute sweetheart. I’ll make it up to you”

You grinned; “You certainly will”

“Oooh” you heard people talking and calling out to him in the background; “I’ve got to go Darling, i’ll give you a call later”

“Okay, bye Humph”

The sound of men laughing in background and Humphrey muttering a goodbye was the last thing you heard before the line went dead. With a sigh you set your phone on the counter and wondered what to do with your evening. 

An hour later you’d rage cleaned your kitchen, vacuumed the rugs, and emptied the trash baskets, loading everything into one bag. With your music still playing through your earpods you took a deep breath and let the breeze from the open window cool your skin, before grabbing the trash bag and stepping out into the hallway to drop it down the garbage chute. Halfway down the hall as you hummed along to your playlist you felt the gust of wind followed by the loud bang and your heart sank; your apartment door had blown shut. With you on the wrong side of it. Dropping the bag you hurriedly patted down your tiny booty shorts like a dumbass, there weren’t even pockets in the tiny scrap of fabric, let alone had you remember to put anything in them. 

“Fuck” you cursed, looking down at your outfit. It was one you had specifically bought to tease Humphrey; booty shorts, cropped t-shirt, and over the knee socks, knowing it was super casual to his primped and proper button up shirts and chinos he always wore. With a sigh you knew what your only option was, so admitting defeat you grabbed the trash bag and shot it down the chute, before standing in front of your neighbours door, knocking with your knuckles. 

The door swung open and a rush of air wooshed past you, and it felt like the oxygen had been sucked from your lungs. Standing in the doorway pretty much blocking out all of the light spilling into the hallway from his apartment was your neighbour; Sy.

The brute of the man let a smile tug at the corner of his mouth, crossing his arms as he leant against the frame of the door;

“What do we have here then?”

“Hi… I was putting the trash out but the wind caught my door…”

“And now you’re stuck”

“Yeah”

“Wearing that”

“Yeah”

He paused, blatantly looking you up and down before you crossed your arms;

“You know what, forget it. I’ll go see Mrs Cooper downstairs”

Turning away you were stopped when a massive hand caught your arm;

“Hey, I'm sorry. You wanna come in?” turning back to him the cockyness was gone; “I promise i’ll even be nice”

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542 notes - Posted March 11, 2022

#4

Netflix and Chilled

Summary: Living in a shared house, you do your best to keep your sexual desires a secret, especially from your attractive floor buddy Henry. But when the heating goes out and you’re both cold, surely watching a movie cuddled under the duvet wouldn’t lead to anything?

Pairing: Henry Cavill x Female Reader Henry is a inexperienced Dom, Reader is an experienced Sub.

Warnings: NSFW, 18+, Friends to Lovers, Oral, Fingering, Unprotected Sex, Anal Toys, cum play, body piercings.

I do not run a tag list, instead please follow @angryschnauzerwrites​ and put that blog onto notifications. Henry Cavill Masterlist

A/N: This originally started out as a Mikey x Reader story but then i got writers block. That was until i got one helpful comment in particular on AO3 and it inspired me to change it to RPF and make it Henry instead of a character. Thank you AO3 commenter!

Netflix and Chilled

Living in a shared house could be a pain sometimes, but once you got the right mix of people things seemed to flow nicely. The house itself was perfect, spread over a grand total of five stories, it was tall and narrow, a kitchen and living room on the entry level with a basement containing two bedrooms below. Above the shared area’s there were two more main levels each with two bedrooms and then an attic room. 

You had one of the basement rooms, sometimes a bit too cold in the winter. It however had its own access through a low doorway out beneath the stone stoop and steps of the front door, as did the other room in the basement that led into the garden at the rear. A small shared shower room was the bathroom for the basement, which your floor roommate kept relatively clean, although did have a tendency to leave body hair pretty much everywhere and didn’t know how to hang towels up to dry.

Ah yes, your floor-mate; Henry. Tall and skinny Henry, with a goofy smile and inappropriate jokes. Henry who went from job to job, never lasting long in each position from either getting fired or quitting. The only thing he did seem to stick to was his guitar practice, and many weekend mornings you were gradually woken to the soft strumming of his acoustic guitar. You’d made the ‘mistake’ of walking into his room one morning with a mug of tea for him as you’d heard him playing, almost spilling the contents when you’d seen that he was sitting there in just his boxers as he had been trying a particularly difficult chord whilst hungover. You’d made a hasty exit, apologising for not knocking. It was after that morning you could understand why the women that Henry brought home made so much noise; the guy was certainly packing some equipment in the underwear department. It was a few weeks later when most of the housemates were sat around the table for dinner did the subject get onto Henry’s conquests, and someone had teased him that it was a different girl each time and why he didn’t keep one around for longer than just a night. His reply was that they were ‘too vanilla’ for him which made everyone laugh, but the subject was then dropped.

You’d made no attempt to take part in that conversation, partly out of a well hidden jealousy, but also you didn’t want to get interrogated as your own tastes were considerably darker than anyone knew about. Occasionally you’d have your own conquests, but you always went back to their place so your housemates were none the wiser of your preferences. As far as they were concerned you were the one who liked fairy lights and fluffy pillows, completely unaware of your box of tricks you kept in the bottom drawer next to your bed. It was one of those tricks that had almost got you caught out that morning, just after you and Henry had returned from the supermarket where it had been your turn on the monthly rota to buy cleaning supplies and bathroom tissue for the whole house. Two of your other housemates had been loitering in the kitchen as you’d bent over to stash the laundry detergent into the low cupboards when one had let out a low whistle as your lower back had come into view from your low riding sweatpants and t-shirt;

“Gurrrl, no panties? Really getting into that relaxed weekend vibe…”

The other had laughed as you’d spun around and stood quickly, glaring at them and annoyed with yourself for almost revealing one of your secrets. Glaring at both of them you pulled your t-shirt up at the front, exposing the thin elastic band of your underwear;

“You two can just shut up”

You slammed the cupboard door shut and left the room, angry not only at them but also at yourself. You’d worked so hard to keep everything a secret, and there you were almost giving things away. Passing Henry in the hallway you stomped downstairs.

As he entered the kitchen Henry turned to his two housemates;

“What was that all about?”

As the two other guys stood up they shrugged;

“Dunno… when she bent over her sweats slipped down and you could see the top of her ass crack and Dave made a joke about going commando…”

“But she wasn't, she showed us the elastic to her panties when she turned around in a huff…”

Henry shrugged;

“Guys, you know she’s a private person. Take it easy on her, ok?”

“Yeah, whatever man. Think the cold it getting to everyone”

Henry turned and looked at the silent water heater in the corner of the kitchen;

“When is that getting fixed again? It's freezing in this house at the moment”

“Dunno… next week i think”

-

In your room you had rolled up a blanket and put it along the bottom of the outside door to try and prevent the cold from outside coming in through the gap, and switched on the small fan heater you’d had in case of emergencies. You planned on crawling under your duvet and watching movies, perhaps treating yourself to some personal time if the house went quiet. What you hadn’t expected was a quiet knock at the door;

“Only me” 

Henry. He was probably bored and tended to loiter when he didn’t have any plans. You didn’t mind but it just meant the personal time you’d considered would have to wait. Looking up you saw him entering your room with two steaming mugs piled high with whipped cream and marshmallows, the aroma of chocolate wafting on the chilled air of the room;

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576 notes - Posted March 9, 2022

#3

Heads up for non UK people: if your mutuals aren't online for the next couple of days, its because we have a HUGE Atlantic storm about to hit the entire country. Storm Eunice is due to make landfall 9am Friday Feb 18th, with sustained wind speeds of 80mph in the west of the country, and even 400+ miles inland, the storm will still be strong enough to obliterate urban areas and major cities with wind speeds of 70mph.

Unfortunately this storm arrives after a very rainy winter, plus a previous storm having hit the country just 48 hours earlier. Coincide with an early spring, trees already starting to bud and grow leaves, and soft earth meaning root networks have only sodden ground to try and cling to, its looking like hundreds of thousands of homes could be without power.

On the plus side, homes here are generally made of stone, brick, or concrete, or substantial solid wooden buildings. But pretty much every govt agency is warning against travelling apart from essential journeys only.

The last time we had a storm with wind speeds this high, it cut power to 70% of the country for 10 days (1987).

So, fingers crossed we're all still here come Sunday.

894 notes - Posted February 18, 2022

#2

By The Waning Crescent Moon

Summary: As an Omega you know you need to get home before your Heat starts, but when your car breaks down in the woods you need to seek refuge somewhere safe... surely a Convent will be the best place? Little do you know the nuns have long since left, only to be replaced by the worst possible thing; a pack of Werewolves. Even worse, its a full moon. Fandom: Henry Cavill, Sand Castle - Movie.

Wordcount: 4949

Pairing: Alpha Werewolf Syverson x Omega Female reader (no race or body type specified)

Warnings: NSFW, 18+, Smut, Oral Sex (Female Receiving), Unprotected Sex, Desecration of Religious artefacts, Knotting, Werewolf Sex, Monsterfucking, Unplanned Pregnancy, ABO Dynamics

I do not run a tag list, instead please follow @angryschnauzerwrites​ and put that blog onto notifications, you’ll then get an alert each time i post something new. My AO3 also has my entire back catalogue of stories (going back to 2013).

Henry Cavill Masterlist

A/N: This story has been stuck in WIP hell for a couple of months, i originally got psyched to write an entire werewolf gangbang, but then all the bullshit in the USA happened and yeah, forced pregnancy wasn’t at the forefront of everyone’s to do list, even in fanfic. Furthermore the wolf gang was originally going to be a biker gang, but another amazing writer @sillyrabbit81​ has since launched a truly amazing biker gang reverse harem fic, i decided to shelve that idea and instead sit on the original thought of werewolves for a while. I then had inspiration to make this a Syverson story, so here we go. The Were sex scene is heavily inspired by the graveyard scene between Lucy and Dracula in Bram Stokers Dracula movie, which in my opinion is one of the greatest creature feature/monsterfucking movies in the history of cinema.

By the Waning Crescent Moon

You waited at the stop light, the remote intersection of two highways high up in the hills of logging country. It was dusk, yet the sky was hidden behind obsidian clouds, heavy rain systems waiting to release their downpours in sporadic outbursts. Despite the cold rain dulling the summer evening, you were burning up. You’d stopped at the last gas station and had stocked up on a huge slush drink and a popsicle, but neither had done anything to quell the growing warmth within your body. Sat in your flimsy sundress you were at least grateful that in a moment of optimism that morning you’d dressed for good weather, even if you’d spent the day wrapped in the cardigan you’d found on the back seat. However now as you felt a droplet of sweat make its way down your neck and cleavage, you cursed and opened the window, grateful for the cool damp air against your skin.

The red light finally changed and you muttered under your breath to yourself as you pushed your old Nissan into gear;

“C’mon, lets get home” you said to no-one except yourself.

The highway grew narrow as it entered the woods, just a single lane in each direction, tall cedar trees closing in on both sides. The rain wasn’t as heavy beneath the thick canopy above you, instead there were wisps of mist clinging to the roadway’s edge. 

As you continued along you felt the first pang of pain in your stomach, a cramp that grew with intensity like an old lightbulb trying to illuminate but suddenly extinguishing.

“Oh fuck…” you cursed, resting your hand on your stomach as you rubbed to ease the ache. You drove on cautiously, ignoring the rattle that was emanating from the engine, your mind elsewhere. You had only finished your last period a little over a week ago so it wasn’t that. You could feel another cramp starting to build, your concentration far from the road. That was more than likely the reason you didn’t notice the pothole, the car shook and the suspension made a deafening thunk as you hit the flooded crater without pause. With a scream you pulled your full attention back to the road, ignoring the cramp pulling at your gut as you struggled to keep the car on the road, slowing gradually until you were able to pause. The sudden understanding hit your mind as the realisation of what was happening registered. You scrambled for your phone, opening the calendar and scrolling back to the cold winter months. 

A cold chill ran down your back like icy fingers against your spine. Six months. Almost to the day. Six months since your last heat.

“Shit fuck FUCK” you shouted at the rain splattered windows. How could you have missed it? As another cramp hit your stomach you curled over and rested your head against the steering wheel, at which moment your phone chimed. Peering out of one eye you looked at the screen and the reminder that had just popped up;

*Heat starting soon!!!*

“Yes, THANK YOU. 24 hours too late”

As an unmated Omega you set yourself reminders for when your heat was due, coming every six months you generally made arrangements to work from home, and ensure you loaded your purse with suppressants and painkillers so to deal with the build up. It would seem this time however you hadn’t set the reminder early enough, as you had neither medication with you, but would also explain the hot sweats and the reason you’d woken up that morning tangled in the sheets after dreaming of faceless intimacy. 

With a sigh you wiped the sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand, before peering out of the windshield at the dark and twisting road. Engaging first gear you set off but were immediately reminded that something terminal had happened when you’d hit the hole in the asphalt, your car now leaning on the kerbside. For a moment you considered calling for a tow truck, but then the rapidly failing rational side of your brain reminded you that the truck would likely be driven by a man, and the last thing you needed when you were about to come into heat was to risk being stuck with an Alpha you didn’t know. No, you needed to try and limp your car home, at least close enough to town that you could call your roommate to come help, she’d know exactly what to do.  You made it a good couple of miles at a slow pace, the road straight and gently downhill, until a hairpin bend meant you had to sharply turn the wheel. Something loudly went ‘twang’ like a spring being violently recoiled. It was quickly followed by the sound of hissing air, and the car dropped even further on the kerbside. The tell-tale thud-thud-thud of a flat tyre could be heard as you freewheeled to the side of the road, before coming to a stop on the gravel side of the highway.

You took a deep breath and let out a scream, yelling at the windshield, before your stomach cramps hit back again. They were getting closer together and you knew you needed help. Checking your phone hopefully you were still disappointed when you saw that there was still no service, more than likely due to a combination of location and the bad weather. With a sigh you stared out of the windshield and you noticed a sign on a wall;

“The Sisters of St Augustus’ Refuge” you paused, the synapses in your brain firing and finally connecting; “A CONVENT! That’s just women!”

Climbing out of your car you grabbed your purse and cardigan, holding the latter over your head in a vain attempt to keep the worst of the rain off as you started to trot up the long driveway towards the building that loomed on the horizon. You failed to notice the other sign that lay on the ground, one put up by the real estate company handling the sale of the building but has since fallen.

The driveway was considerably longer than you anticipated, and by the time you were halfway your pace had slowed, your cramps now even worse. The large wooden doors of the convent came into view as you staggered closer, the rain and sweat mixing and running into your eyes, blurring your vision. You stumbled, your no longer white Converses catching on a pebble, righting yourself before you fell flat on your face. Another two steps and another pebble, you were falling when suddenly a pair of arms caught you, the dark robes fluttering in the storm as you blacked out.

-

Sy sat back in his chair, his boots resting on the large table as he picked at his nails with one long claw, being able to control the change to his advantage. Walter was pacing the room, pausing to glare at the clock on the wall before returning to pacing. Sy let out a small sigh, the entire pack was antsy, anxious and ready for the turn of the full moon, however this summer storm obscuring its silver rays was turning the pack into an angry mess. August had wisely disappeared into the depths of the building and Sy was thankful for that, he and Walter would always argue over the smallest thing. Sy also glanced at the clock, his stomach growling;

“Where is Mikey with that takeout?” he muttered to himself.

A sudden increase in background noise caused both Sy and Walter to pause and look up, their nostrils flaring. August entered the room from the door that led to the private quarters, just as the large double doors to the chapel opened. The two youngest members of the pack came bustling in, Will holding the doors open as Mikey staggered along, his long black duster raincoat still dripping with rain, a now soaked bag of takeout hanging from one hand, but what caught everyone’s attention was what else he was carrying; a young woman.

The room fell into an eerie silence as Mikey stood still, waiting to gauge the reaction from the rest of the pack;

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951 notes - Posted July 8, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

On Your Knees

Summary: As general maid for 221 Baker Street, you assist most of the residents. However on one quiet night when most of them are out, only one resident returns to his home... a little worse for wear. He thanks you in the easiest way possible.

Fandoms: Enola Holmes 2, Henry Cavill

Pairing: Sherlock Holmes x Female Reader

Warnings: 18+, Smut, NSFW, Drunk Sherlock, Oral Sex (Female Receiving).

Here is my masterlist and AO3

Wordcount: 1854

I do not run a tag list, instead please follow @angryschnauzerwrites​ and put that blog onto notifications, you’ll then get an alert each time i post something new. My AO3 also has my entire back catalogue of stories (going back to 2013).

On Your Knees

The cold wind rattled the fragile glass in the frame, a chill advancing into your room even further as the dark night continued. The building of 221 Baker Street was colder than usual, most of the apartments empty for the night due to various parties and festive events happening this time of year meaning the tenants wouldn’t be back until the morning. 

As the scullery maid of 221 Baker Street you were in and out most of the apartments each day, tending to the fireplaces and delivering meals if required. The housekeeper who supervised you telling you where to go and what to do wasn’t around either, though her instruction was rarely needed anymore, you knew the routines of all of the tenants and could read the calendar hung in the kitchen showing who was home and who wasn’t.

At that moment the wind rushed against the window again and you pulled your dressing gown further around your body, shivering beneath your quilt. Glancing at your own laundry you’d hand washed that evening, your bloomers hung on the wooden airer where the chimney breast rose through the building. With every pair you owned doing little to dry in the cold attic room, you cursed your schedule for not giving you time to do it earlier in the day when the sun had been coming through the window. Now you just had your thin nightgown and woollen stockings to keep you warm beneath your dressing gown.

You were drawn from your thoughts by the sound of movement in the hallway far below your room. Freezing you wracked your brain to try to remember if any of the tenants were due back tonight, but none were. Through the eerie quiet of the house there was another bump and a quiet curse. You reached for the large floor brush that still sat beside the door to your room with its dustpan, lifting the brush as a weapon as you opened the door and carefully stepped out onto the old floorboards to peer down through the stairwell. Clinging to your brush you leant forwards over the bannister and peered through the darkness, a single lamp in the hall four floors down barely illuminating the entryway before you suddenly saw a shadow move. Letting out a small gasp you clamped your hand over your mouth as you watched, but that tension evaporated when you recognised the wide shoulders and curly dark hair of the tenant in apartment B;

“Detective Holmes!” you called out, the figure below swivelling rapidly before spinning and looking up.

“Ah. There you are…” a soft hiccup followed as he swayed on his feet.

“I’ll be right down Sir”

Just last week Mr Holmes’ sister helped him into his apartment having had too many drinks at the pub, and it would seem he’d done the same again tonight. Padding on stocking clad feet you descended the stairs quickly, soon arriving in the hallway as Mr Holmes swayed a little on his feet;

“Can i help you to your apartment Sir?”

“Oh that would be *hiccup* wonderful Darling”

Hooking your arm around his back and pulling his own arm over your shoulders, you started to help him up the stairs one at a time, before arriving at his apartment. 

“I have a… I have my… dammit” Mr Holmes cursed as he fumbled for his key, and as you glanced down you could see that the bunch of keys in his pocket had caught on the fabric and were stuck. Without even thinking you batted his hand away and slid your much smaller hand into his pocket, moving the keys around until they were no longer snagged on the fabric. You tried not to think of the heat radiating from Mr Holmes thigh, barely separated from your touch by a thin layer of cotton, nor the firm muscle beneath the fabric that flexed as your delicate fingers brushed against it. He answered your silent thoughts with a grunt, before you pulled the keys out and unlocked the door, all whilst he had his arm around your shoulder.

His body was firm and heavy, a welcome weight against your cold frame, and as he swayed you did so too, before he finally pulled his arm free of your shoulders and started to shuck off his coat and scarf, struggling as he went about the task.

“Mr Holmes, Sir, please let me help…”

He swung around, shrugging his shoulders, his coat now held on his arms around his elbows, his wide shoulders only accentuated by the white shirt and silk waistcoat that clung to his torso. Whilst distracted you didn’t spot his flailing, one stray arm of his coat socking you around the chin, and although not hurting you, caught you by surprise and knocked you back where you lost your footing and fell on your bottom. 

“Ta-da! Done it!” he proclaimed proudly, before spinning around; “Where did you…?”

Climbing to your feet you took the bundle of coat from the floor;

“Ah, there you are Darling, didn’t get you did i?”

“Just a little Mr Holmes. Let me hang this up for you”

As you hung the coat onto the hook near the door you heard a gasp and a soft thud, turning to see Sherlock on his knees before you;

“Mr Holmes!”

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1,060 notes - Posted November 11, 2022

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