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inoreuct · 5 months

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thinking about mermaid sanji and sailor zoro,,,

the sky is cloudless, the sun’s glimmering off the calm water, the crew’s relaxing on the deck as they’re sailing through a clear patch of ocean; by all accounts, it’s a perfect day. luffy hasn’t gotten them into another shenanigan as of yet and zoro’s chilling up in the crow’s nest, half asleep and lethargic with the heat— and then he swears he hears laughter. and it isn’t coming from the ship.

he’s up on his feet immediately and squinting against the glaring light, wondering for a second if he’s seeing a mirage or a trick of the heat shimmer, because they’re sailing by a large, flat rock.

a rock with merfolk on it.

zoro’s shimmying down the mast in record time, ropes lashing around him as his boots hit the deck and he tries not to look like he’s running to the taffrail to catch a better look. (look, he’s curious, alright? merfolk aren’t a total myth, but they aren’t a common sight either.)

(that, and he feels oddly like someone has cast out a fish hook and it’s lodged behind his sternum, tugging him forward and forward until his hands are pressed palm-flat to the railing and he’s leaning over the edge.)

he hears that laugh again, rich and bright, wide eyes snapping to the mer who made it. golden waves shimmer over a leanly muscled shoulder, curling around a sharp jaw to reveal the mer’s pale, slender throat as they tip an oyster back into their mouth. leaning back on his hands — zoro is rather sure he is a he now, as a deep, smooth voice fills his ears, though he’s had enough tongue-lashings from nami to know not to assume — and tossing his hair back affords zoro a glimpse of a beautiful smile and bright blue eyes, blue as the goddamn sky. or maybe the sea. or perhaps the bioluminescent algae that had speckled the walls of this one cave that he’d been to ages ago—

he’s getting sidetracked. some sound must escape him, because suddenly a gaze so keen he feels his skin prickle is on him and he gulps involuntarily. and then for some reason, he opens his mouth. “are you a siren?”

the man’s curly brows narrow in irritation. “are you dead yet?” he snarks, casting zoro a flat stare and sighing in annoyance when zoro just stares back blankly. “no, I’m not a damn siren. lucky for you, we happen to be their… less bloodthirsty cousins.”

“less bloodthirsty meaning…?”

he shares a bored, bemused look with the woman on her elbows beside him, a mer with the richest purple colouring zoro’s seen in his life and a one-shoulder top made of shiny black kelp. “meaning we wouldn’t drag you down to the depths and feast on your carcass, but keep running your mouth and I might just change my mind.”

the mer’s tail is folded elegantly to the side as he lounges, fan-like tail fin trailing in the water, turning his body so that he can look at zoro properly as he tips back another oyster like it’s his god-given right. a tiny voice at the back of zoro’s mind whispers that this isn’t a good idea, whatever this is. it goes ignored. flaxen hair flutters in a slight breeze, sticking to the man’s milky skin in darker spirals where the tips are wet, and zoro’s breath catches as he watches the mer smile with teeth that are just erring on the side of too sharp.

the words register all at once and zoro lurches back, away from the railing, away from golden curls and blue eyes and pale skin. “what did you do,” he grits, resisting the urge to press the heel of his hand into his chest where it suddenly aches.

the mer shrugs. “nothing.”

“bullshit.”

“what’s the matter, sailor? feeling charmed?” that laugh, again, and zoro feels his heart throb. he watches the other man cock his head, studying another oyster in his hand, tilting the shell back and forth as he sucks on his teeth. “we can’t thrall,” he says finally, posture slackening with a sigh and a pout that seems to say what a shame as he picks up a knife and spins it deftly, shucking the shell open with a neat flick of his wrist. “only sirens can do that. whatever you’re feeling, whatever it may be, hasn’t been borne of any influence of mine.”

the oyster goes down and somehow, that sentence makes zoro feel even worse. it’s like he’s had the air punched out of him; he’s rooted, eyes wide, breathing hard as the mer makes a noise of pleasant surprise and pulls a pearl from his mouth, shimmering between his elegant fingers under the sun.

(zoro doesn’t know it yet, but he’s doomed. he was doomed from the start.)

back under the ocean, sanji has a crisis. he doesn’t see humans. he doesn’t meet humans. he and robin had just gone up to enjoy the sunshine and then this— this— brute swings by, with his stupid green hair and his three earrings and his obscenely grimy used-to-be-white shirt— sanji is fuming and he doesn’t know why. swimming laps back and forth across his cave isn’t helping either.

"might you possibly have something to get off your mind?" robin asks lightly, the pages of her book drifting in the water.

sanji does an about-turn and holds in a screech with all his might, forcing himself to relax with an exhale. "i'm just fine, my dear. peachy keen."

"you're making grooves in the floor."

"i'm redecorating."

he rolls the pearl from earlier between his fingers, squeezing it tight until his hand aches. "are you a siren, he asks," he mutters mutinously, fins fluttering as he throws himself onto a seaweed bed with a scowl. "how could a human be so stupid? if we were sirens he'd have been a waterlogged ball of moss on the sea floor by that point— and that hair. he looks like— like—"

"algae?" robin supplies helpfully.

"algae! sentient plant life, that's what he is, a kelp bed. water lettuce. duckweed, even." oh, he's so mad. that marimo pisses him off. the whole lot of them had sailed away, good riddance, because sanji never wants to see any of them ever again. they probably all smelled horrid anyway.

the merman's been following them.

the crow's nest is zoro's territory for a reason; he's the crew's lookout, and he's damn good at his job. for the past few days he's been seeing flashes of a broad tail fin and twists of golden hair. (he very firmly tells himself that he's not just seeing what he wants to see, because one, he might have one remaining eye but his eyesight is still as sharp as he keeps his cutlass, thank you very much. and two, why the hell would he want to see that merman? he isn't about to win any awards for his own manners but that guy had been stuck up and prissy and just rude. he's only been allowed to tag along this far because he hasn't presented himself as an outright threat. zoro doesn't want to see him. nuh-uh.)

(zoro sees things in his dreams, too. ocean eyes and a sly smile. a pale torso, knife in hand and teeth too sharp. he reaches out to see if the other man's hair feels as soft as it looks and he always wakes before he finds out.)

rum doesn't help to loosen the tension that settles against his spine at night, like he's waiting for something. he doesn't know what. anticipation, maybe, would be a better word— but that has a slight positive connotation, and— no. this man might not be a siren, but zoro’s enough of a sailor to know that it sure as hell doesn’t mean he isn’t dangerous.

he can't afford to go off chasing pretty mermen when he has a crew to protect.

the ship docks for a few days at a barren island. sanji swims laps around the sandy coast and pretends that the thought of his the sailor being beyond his reach doesn't make an anxious itch ripple beneath his scales.

water splashes against the side of the boat, and zoro's at the railing in an instant whether he wants to be or not.

“hello, marimo.”

the merman treads water leisurely, golden hair swirling about his shoulders and gleaming in the faint lantern light. it's early enough after sunset that the stars aren't out yet and it's dark as hell. zoro squints.

a laugh echoes in his ears, light and melodious. already familiar. zoro tries to be mad about that. “a little more to your left, moron.”

“well, i can’t very well fuckin’ see, can i?” he scoffs, and bites back a gasp when the water starts glowing, what the fuck. his stupid heart stutters when he sees him, lit up with gentle blues and yellows from below, flickering with the push and pull of the tide and sweeps of that powerful tail. "hey."

"hello," the mer hums again, lashes long and wet enough that they catch the wavering light. "gonna tell me your name, sailor?"

zoro almost lets it slip. almost. but he bites his tongue as he feels a chill run up the back of his neck; sure enough, a glance over his shoulder confirms that nami is glaring at him. don't do anything stupid, her gaze says, and he turns away with a shudder. their navigator is a threat in her own right. "no."

"okay. marimo it is."

"you— that is insulting," he hisses, because it is. he is roronoa zoro. he came from nothing and made a life for himself out of it. he's one of the best swordsmen on the damn seas and he's part of the best crew he's ever known, and he's been reduced to, what? a floating ball of moss?

"it's accurate," the other man corrects with a smirk. "unless you tell me what else to call you."

zoro fumes, fingertips digging into the taffrail. he's sure his nails are gouging scratches in the wood. "no."

"marimo."

"shut up."

"mosshead."

"shut up!"

"algae-brained, kelp-haired, water cabbage-headed—"

"zoro!"

the mer finally stops, lashes fluttering as something passes over his face.

"my name," he ekes out, "is zoro." nami swears somewhere behind him.

the merman's lips part around the syllables of the word, before he draws in a breath and grins, smug. "okay, marimo."

"wh—?!" zoro throws his hands up in exasperation, scofffing. "you bastard!"

"i asked for your name. never said i would use it."

"you're a piece of shit, blondie."

"call me that again and i'll show you how hard i can bite," the mer sneers with all his teeth on show, blue eyes lit up furious, turning away as he prepares to dive and—

"wait!" zoro yells before he can stop himself, and he curses under his breath. ah, fuck it. already got one foot in it anyway. "what's your name?"

"...oh, darling," the mer sighs, half-amused and airy, his voice slipping away. "you're gonna have to work a little harder for that."

it feels like hours later when zoro steps back with a shaky sigh. the merman reminds him of a strong brandy he’d had what feels like lifetimes ago, burnt caramel and warm sugar and smoke with enough hidden bite to take you by surprise, to sink its teeth into you three shots down. enough to intoxicate if you weren’t careful.

he yelps when nami slaps him across the back of the head, faking a lunge at her with bared teeth even as he rubs a hand over his aching scalp with a huff. her nagging about being more careful barely registers. his hair's getting long; maybe he needs a trim.

(that little voice in the back of his head is wary. hesitant. but now it's asking what if.)

the ship docks again. this island is teeming with life, thriving, lush with rich green foliage and thick forestation— and beautiful women who all seem to find zoro the height of masculine appeal, apparently. sanji curls himself into a nook in the coral reef and lets his fins trail in the water, the corner of his mouth ticking up a little when a baby clownfish comes to nibble curiously at his fingertip. he's not sulking. he's not. that would be fucking embarrassing for so many reasons and he refuses to think about even one of them.

it's the first time that he starts to feel a little stupid. it had been all fun and games, in the beginning when he'd upped and left on a whim; curiosity and intrigue and the good old urge to stick his fingers in all the cracks this human had until sanji understood every part of him, laid out in the sand like the skeleton of a great sea beast.

but now he's so far away from home, aimlessly following a ship— no, not even a ship. following one person on a ship for no real reason at all.

the clownfish ducks beneath his hand, and sanji cups it carefully in his palm. "you're lucky you don't have to deal with romance yet," he tells it sagely before gently shooing it out of his hiding spot. the water above ripples. it's dark again; the crew must have returned to their boat for the night. sanji sighs and unfurls his tail.

it honestly seems like blind optimism at this point, but he really hopes he's not being played for a fool.

zoro's there when he surfaces, peering over the railing and backlit by the lanterns. sanji focuses and brings out his bioluminescence until the little cove they're in is filled with coloured light. "marimo."

"swirly brow," zoro greets in return.

sanji raises one said swirly eyebrow. "that's new."

"i've got more. blondie, of course. curly head. fishboy—"

"fishboy?!" he squawks, enraged. "fuck you!"

"you wish."

"more like the ladies did," sanji scoffs, and immediately wants to try drowning himself.

zoro frowns. "the hell you talking 'bout, curls?"

the burst of bitterness at the back of his throat is just enough to take him by surprise and loosen his tongue. "they were hanging off your arm like—" mm. nope. he's not gonna go there.

the swordsman's eyes widen like he's just realised something, and sanji does not like that at all. "you're jealous."

"no."

"you are!"

"fuck you," he spits, gills flaring. "i am not." he has no reason to be jealous. they are nothing. this— there is nothing between them.

zoro just grins. "catch."

a white thing drops downwards and sanji darts forward on instinct to let it fall into his cupped palms. "what, s'this supposed to be a present for me, marimo?"

"it's— yeah."

he opens his mouth to reply, before he realises what exactly it is he's holding.

the water lotus fills his hands, its soft white petals edged in pale pink, velvety against his fingertips. something catches in his throat and he dips beneath the water to submerge his gills, carefully holding the flower aloft. his heart squeezes.

the waves lap at the bridge of his nose, hiding half his face as he watches zoro rub at the back of his neck, uncharacteristically shy. zoro isn't shy. sanji knows this much. he is loud and unabashed and unashamed with everything, with how he lives, with how he talks, with how he loves his crew and everything they entail.

but he looks almost— he's blushing, just a little, red across the tips of his ears as his gaze darts away, looking very much like he's mad at himself. "nami said it means strength and resilience, or something." the breath he huffs is harsh as he scratches at his nape. "i don't know, it's stupid, curly, i just—"

"sanji."

"what?"

"sanji. my name."

sanji doesn't want to know what he looks like as he rises out of the water to cup the flower to his collar. dumb, probably. rightfully so, because all of this is a very dumb decision and it's probably going to end in shambles with his heart broken into pieces in the silt but zoro— he looks up, floating on his back, and zoro's already looking at him with something that could be wonder, if sanji dared to name it.

"where did you get this?" he murmurs, tail fin creating large ripples as he swims a circle, holding the lotus like it's fragile.

"there was a pond full of them on the island. thought you'd like it."

"you don't know what i like." it comes out breathy. his hair melts against his shoulders as he tries to push himself closer, closer, across the space between them, like a fool. "you don't even know me."

and yet, he startles back when zoro jumps the railing, splashing feet-first into the water boots and all and shaking his head like a dog when he resurfaces. sanji shrieks and shields the lotus with his body, everything else momentarily forgotten as he whacks zoro with his tail just hard enough to send the sailor back underwater with a sputtered laugh. "you fucking brute!"

"i want to."

"that made no sense—"

"i don't know you, but i want to." zoro treads closer, and sanji's light ripples off his skin. his eyes are grey. warm granite and the inside of an oyster shell. "will you let me?"

sanji wants. there is nothing between them, but he wants there to be. he wants so hard it hurts. it feels like he's holding his heart in his hands and not a flower. it's the only way to explain how he's suddenly aching, hollow, in the face of something that isn't even a goddamn confession but feels too much like one. there is a flower in his hands and he wants.

“why?”

“dunno.” he gets a shrug, blunt and earnest as ever even as zoro’s mouth twists up at the edge. “maybe i’m charmed.”

he swallows hard, his mouth dry, and he doesn't want to say it but he has to. "if this is some sick thing about me being a mer—"

"wh—? no!" zoro blurts, and he looks so fucking horrified at that moment that it settles something in sanji's stomach instantly. "god, fuck, no. no. it's not like that. i swear on my life."

there are reasons why merfolk don't interact with humans. sanji grew up with the stories. he's seen the skeletons on the sea floor, mangled with the hunting tools of man, incomplete remains of his kin tossed away to their deaths, unable to swim or save themselves— still a better fate than the ones who never returned. the ocean is gentle after the burn of her salt; her waves are familiar, and her children are raised in their push and pull. captivity, at the hands of men for whatever reason, is never so kind.

he inhales sharply as callused hands cup his.

"i'm sorry," zoro says softly, rushed and maybe a little desperate, throat bobbing as his eyes dart across sanji's face. "i'm sorry. i didn't think of that at all."

"good," he finds himself replying as he looks down. "that means it didn't cross your mind."

a muscle ticks in zoro's jaw. "that's fucking sick, curls."

"i know." sanji's tone is matter-of-fact. "but it's what we have to deal with, sometimes." he deflates with a soft huff at the expression on the other man's face, looking away. "if you start saying shit like i'll protect you or whatever, i'm gonna smack you. i can handle myself."

zoro sighs through his nose, slowly, and his hands tighten around sanji's. "i know you can. i've watched you hunt. doesn't mean i can't be mad about it."

his eyebrows go up. "you saw me hunting?"

"mhm," the swordsman hums. "you're strong. fast. resourceful, too."

sanji preens. he knows he is, knows he’s one of, if not the best, but hearing it from zoro is another thing entirely.

"...also, my captain's been begging me to get you to fish for us because we're all crap at it."

that startles a laugh out of him, and he smiles so wide so quick that his cheeks ache. "that can be negotiated."

up this close, it's easy to see that zoro's hair is shorter than it was before, shorn short at the back and blunt enough that it just had to be freshly cut. the possibility of it being for him does something funny to his chest. the dark green strands are spiky, sticking up everywhere now that they're wet, and sanji wants so badly to touch.

he looks down at the flower in their hands, and he doesn't.

"this can't survive in saltwater," he murmurs instead, carefully putting his lotus into zoro's scarred palms. "take care of it for me."

he watches zoro trudge back to shore, one hand with the flower held above his head. he yells, "it better still be alive the next time i come check, marimo!" and he doesn't bother waiting for an answer. he knows zoro heard him.

sanji's gonna play this slow. he's gonna play this smart. and if zoro fucks up, well— he’s on friendly terms with a particular shiver of great whites.

zoro does not, in fact, fuck up. but now he’s constantly being given shit about his pretty merman boyfriend and as much as he pretends he hates it, he really doesn’t. luffy takes one look and declares that sanji’s crew now, zoro, you can’t hog him! dinners are now seafood more often then not, mussels and clams and all sorts of fish, even lobster when sanji finds out it’s nami’s birthday, and franky engineers some sort of transportable bathtub to get him on board.

(sanji brings robin around and franky falls all over himself making transportable bathtub 2.0, but that’s not the point.)

“bioluminescence, right? am i saying that right?” zoro asks, spinning this way and that as he tries to get a good look at sanji’s glowing tail under the water, eyes wide.

“mhm.” the mer lifts his tail fin out of the water, pulling himself closer so zoro can hold both of them up seeing as the pool they’re in is shallow enough to stand in. zoro’s hands twitch around nervously until sanji reaches out and grabs his wrist, pressing his palm flat to wet scales, and his chest aches at the look on zoro’s face.

the cave they’re in is small enough for every little sound to echo. sanji’s tail drips rhythmically, punctuated by the staggered breath zoro sucks in as he hauls sanji closer with an arm low over his stomach. careful fingers trace over the glowing patterns on his tail, fading upwards into his torso, and zoro slides a palm flat against sanji’s spine to lift him up as he presses their foreheads together.

“beautiful,” he breathes, reverent. the reflections from the water dance off his wet skin, and his eyes are mother-of-pearl.

sanji wants to touch, and so he does. he winds his fingers into zoro’s hair and pulls him down and kisses him, tastes salt and rum and the promise of blood when his teeth catch and zoro doesn’t shy from the bite. for the first time in a long time he is safe enough to let himself drift; his tail drapes itself over zoro’s side like a elaborate feather fan, and he giggles at the mental comparison.

he feels zoro smile at his laughter. feels calluses and gentle hands as zoro carries him back out to sea. tastes love when zoro pulls him in for one last kiss before saying goodbye for the night.

it starts with more flowers. then jewellery, intricate metalwork that would be hard to come by under the sea, fishnet cords and crystal pendants and pretty trinket rings, then daggers, silver hairpins with edges sharp enough to slice bone and a particularly beautiful watered-steel knife in a sheath of butter-soft leather. sanji cannot help but feel like he’s being courted, which makes no sense, because zoro knows nothing about merfolk courting traditions.

and then they talk as zoro braids shells into his hair the way perona taught him to (“you didn’t tell me you had a sister?!” “she just never came up!” “what do you mean she just never came up, marimo, what the fuck! this is important?!”) and sanji finds out zoro talked to robin about it, the sneaky bastard.

a tail doesn’t stop him from tackling zoro to the sand to kiss the crap out of him, braids unfinished and hair wound through zoro’s fingers. his heart feels fit to burst when zoro turns to ensure he takes the brunt of the fall because they both know how much sanji hates getting sand stuck in his scales.

the first time sanji gets hurt, zoro goes rather frantic.

it’s barely a scratch, just a slice near the base of his tail courtesy of a rock he hadn’t been able to avoid while hunting, but zoro bodily hauls him back to the ship between bouts of very concerned yelling and yanks off the black bandana always on his arm, scrubs it clean in hot water for good measure before wrapping up his wound, all while making sure no parts of sanji were drying out in the tub.

“marimo, i am fine,” sanji stresses for the twentieth time, shifting up to cup zoro’s face and sighing in resignation as zoro just shakes his head again.

“i don’t care,” the swordsman announces, throwing his hands up like deal with it. “i don’t care. no more hunting until this is completely healed.”

“it is a scratch. a scratch.”

“i don’t give a shit. you’re staying with me for the next few days.”

sanji groans and grumbles and bitches about it, and when zoro bickers right back it just riles him up even more.

(he stays put. he lets zoro scoop him into his lap with unnecessary care. he leans into the kisses zoro presses to his temple and he feels like crying because he is grateful. always.)

slavers attack the ship. sanji may not be a siren, but that does not mean he isn’t dangerous. he has his tail, and his knives, and his love for his crew. this is his crew.

he drags those slavers into the ocean and drowns them one by one.

now, sanji’s friend ivankov is a literal sea witch— so when they toss sanji an amulet and a wink on his birthday, sanji already knows it’s gonna be good.

the amulet gives him fucking legs.

only while he wears it, of course, but when he stumbles out of the surf like a newborn fawn zoro nearly chokes in shock. they spend the day falling over each other laughing as sanji tries to walk. he eats shit more times than he can counts and gets enough sand in his mouth for a lifetime.

later, there is a blanket beneath them and the moon above them and the endless ocean, shimmering under the light as zoro gathers his hair out of his face and kisses him so softly it hurts.

“beautiful,” zoro breathes. he preaches it like the truth. swears it like a promise.

their hands fit, calluses against calluses as zoro thumbs over the tiny patch of scales on sanji’s wrist, iridescent yellow-blue. their fingers lace in a motion they’ve done hundreds of times and still it never feels different than the first.

sanji lays back, and all he sees are stars.

#did yall catch that metaphor of the lotus being sanji's heart #and him literally handing it to zoro and saying “take care of it for me”#BECAUSE I DIDN'T #I ONLY REGISTERED IT AT THE END WHEN I WAS THINKING BACK TO IT #accidental literary device slay #LEMME KNOW IF YALL WANT HCS OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT bcs there is Lore this just got too long for it #one piece #zosan #roronoa zoro #black leg sanji #zoro x sanji #one piece zosan #one piece sanji #sanji #one piece zoro #zoro #ino writes #zosan au

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xx-alice-in-wonderland-xx · 17 days

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”Don’t you dare doubt yourself or ever think your not good enough.” Karen & Gretchen (Fetchen)

I have been wanting to write something for my too lovelies and since I like angst and I’m in a mood I wanted to right this. No one requested this but I hope y’all fetchen or mean girls lovers will like this! (This is specific to the 2024 Mean girls Musical - Gretchen is played by Bebe Wood and Karen is played by Avantika) also I headcannon that Karen’s middle name is Meena, and I might make headcannons about Gretchen, Karen and their relationship!

It was a rainy day at Gretchen Wieners house. The two lovebirds of North Shore high were wrapped in a blankets and their limbs intertwined with each others. Gretchen had her head leaned on her grey headboard, her back against a pillow. On top of her was Karen, with her head on Gretchens chest, her head following the movement of her chest and she breathed in and out. The brunettes eyes stared lovingly at the girl infront of her, watching her with nothing but adoration as Karen examined her newly done nails.

“Seriously, who does your nails?” Karen mumbles, moving her head to look at her girlfriend. “I’ve told you baby, my mom.” Gretchen smiled, finding the raven heads lightheaded-ness adorable. “Ohhh.” Gretchen chuckled as she pressed her lips against Karen’s forehead, pulling her closer as Karen looked down.

“Baby? What’s wrong?” Gretchen asks, noticing Karen’s chocolate brown eyes avoiding her own. “Nothing Gretch!” Karen’s tone raises, an unconvincing attempt to hide her worry. Gretchens eyebrow raised and she gave the girl a look. “Seriously~” Karen says. Gretchen sighs and sits up, forcing the two to move out of their previous position. “Bubba why’d you do that?” Karen whines, her brows furrowed and previous fake smile disappearing. “Karen don’t lie to me, what’s wrong? I know you too well for you to act like you’re okay.” Gretchen says, her tone laced with worry and seriousness. “I…” Karen sighs, scared the truth would ruin or strain her and Gretchens relationship.

“Don’t I ever bother you?” Karen mumbles, her curly hair wrapped around her fingers. “Of course not, I love you.” Gretchen smiles, rubbing Karen’s head affectionately. “No. I mean how I forgot things? That I’m less… intelli- intellihe…” “Intelligent?” “Yeah. That. Less intelligent that other people. Like cady. Surely it bothers you.” Karen grumbles, grabbing a fluffy pillow with the letter ‘G’ on it and burying her face in the soft, green fluff. Gretchens heart sinks as she notices that certain parts of the pillow grow dark. She pulls the pillow away to see Karen’s nose and cheeks red in colour, and mascara down her cheeks, running along with tears, and grabs her hand, crossing her legs and putting their hands in the space between them.

“Karen Meena Shetty. Nothing about you bothers me. And I mean nothing. The time you defended me at that karaoke bar with a shitty comeback? Didn’t bother me at all. You know what I do think? I think it’s adorable. Karen no one is like you. You’re one in a billion.” Gretchen rubs her cheek, wiping away the tears. “Gretchen listen to me. Even Regina thinks it. She said I’m as dumb as a rock!” Karen yells. “Is it true? No. Even if it was would I care? No!”

Karen’s mouth forms an ‘O’ shape as tears blue her eyes, not allowing her sight to focus on the beauty in-front her. Gretchens arms open as she leans back on the headboard, her lips curving into an upside down ‘c’. Karen crawls over to her, sitting on her lap with her head on her chest, and her arms around her neck, kissing Gretchens bare shoulder and shutting her eyes. Gretchen giggles and plays with Karen’s hair, braiding it, twirling it around her fingers, or just pulling her fingers through it, carefully so she doesn’t hurt the precious thing she has. She would be dead before she ever hurt Karen.

Minutes passed and they still stayed like this, both happy to be in each others company. They didn’t need loads of friends. Ever since they got together they decided they didn’t even need Regina, or popularity. Aslong as they had eachother, that was enough for them. “Baby?” Gretchen mumbles. Karen hums in response, looking at her lover.

“Don’t you dare doubt yourself or ever think you’re not good enough.”

#mean girls musical #mean girls 2024 #mean girls #Mean girls: the musical #mean girls the musical #fetchen #gretchen x karen #karen shetty #gretchen wieners #bebe wood #avantika vandanapu #avantika

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mslowlife · 1 year

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would it be so cool if we got a mutual pining yandere ethan fic🤭🤭🤭🤭

Yesss omg i love this idea 😍 I’m thinking of making this into parts so here is part 1!! it’s very brief and basic right now but there will be more

Mad(e) For You - Part I

Pairings: Yandere! Ethan Landry x Yandere! Reader

Warnings: None for now

Summary: You lived your life fine without him. So why now did you need him to live?

Word Count: 916

C/M = College Major

You can recall the exact moment you saw him for the first time. It was a cold night, the grounds were sprinkled with a thin layer of snow and the sky was fading into an orange pink haze. You sat in Sam’s dorm room, there wasn’t anything particularly interesting going on, everyone just sat around the television having their own conversations while you glanced from the television to the window in order to resolve some boredom. Suddenly, the door clicked, and Chad trodded in, holding a few plastic bags on his arms, but the cheap Chinese takeout didn’t catch your eye, it was the person behind him. The person trailed behind Chad like a lost puppy, his eyes stayed glued to whatever was in front of him. Chad had a new roommate. Everyone else had met him, except you.

“Y/N meet Ethan, my new roomie” Chad announced, a big smile plastered on his face.

You offered Ethan a soft smile and a hello, but were too fixated on him to let any other words escape. He gave a quick awkward wave as his eyes scanned the room, he looked at Quinn, Sam and Tara, then Mindy to Anika, then to you.

You see at the time, you didn’t really know it, though you had a lingering suspicion, but Ethan was different. He was special. His brown doe eyes and his curly chocolate coloured locks that fell in front of his eyes, sure he was pretty to look at. But there was something about him that you wanted. During dinner, you couldn’t stop looking at him. What about him was so addicting? You didn’t even know who he was thirty minutes ago, so why now did you feel so addicted?

As the clock etched closer to midnight, a wave of exhaustion and sleepiness swept over you. The girls had already fallen asleep on the couch and you were about to as well.

“I think we might head off” Chad whispered, poking your shoulder.

“Uh-yeah, okay.” You yawned, watching as Ethan once again stood shyly behind Chad.

“You know I might walk with you, I live near you guys anyways” You mumbled, holding eye contact with Ethan.

“Mhm, good idea, probably better so you don’t have to walk alone” Chad answered, pulling his coat on.

Stepping outside on the snow covered steps, the night air was fresh and chilly which made you tug onto your coat just a bit tighter.

“So how far do you live from us?” Ethan allured

“Jus’ down the street, two or three minutes walk”

Ethan hummed in response, turning his face slightly to yours as you wiped the snow from the front of your hair.

“You want me to walk you back? Just so you’re not alone” He asked, nervously fidgeting his fingers.

You nodded, “thank you”

Chad walked ahead urgently, desperate to get home and out of the cold.

“Chad! I’m gonna walk Y/N home” He yelled out ahead.

“Yeah aight. Seeya tomorrow Y/N.” Chad called back, pushing open the door into the dormitory building.

You gave Chad a wave before the pair of you walked past him.

The first half of the walk filled with silence, well silence from you too at least. New York was never silent, the city never slept. So instead on focusing on the awkward silence you two emitted, you listened out for the lost sirens that echoed through the city and the sounds of distant voices, until, Ethan broke the silence.

“What do you study?” Ethan asked, stepping closer to you to close the distance.

“It’s boring, but C/M” You said somewhat embarrassed.

“Don’t say it’s boring, I think that’s pretty cool.” He spoke up

“Really?”

“Yeah. You should enjoy what you do. Plus, you’re the only person I know who does that now, so I think it’s pretty cool.” He remarked.

“I know I’m trying too, but it does get boring sometimes.”

“What do you study?” You simpered

“Economics.”

“Economics, nice. So you’re like good with numbers yeah?” You suggested.

“Uhh, well I wouldn’t say I’m good with numbers to be exact. I’d say I’m ‘okay’” He joked

“Well you’re probably heaps better than me” You kidded back.

The two of you conversed for another few minutes until you wound up on the steps of your dormitory building.

You pushed the hood of your coat off before locking eyes with Ethan, whose eyes were already glued to yours. Your heart began to pound in your chest, his voice was so soft and sweet and the way he looked at you made you obsessed. You wanted to make him yours and you wanted to be his.

“Want me to walk you inside?” He questioned, inches from your cold face.

Inside you wanted to scream yes, you wanted to take him back to your room and have him and make him yours. But, of course, he was probably just being friendly. He didn’t feel this intense obsession like you were feeling, right?

“It’s okay. I’m alright from here” You assured

“Alright. Well I should see you tomorrow?”

“Mhm yeah. After class with the others” You spoke, playing with the fingertips of your gloves.

“Okay, well, goodnight Y/N”

“Goodnight Ethan”

The moment you walked inside you ran straight to your laptop, scrambling to search his name on every piece of social media possible. You went through Chad’s followers and until you found the only Ethan that matched your Ethan. Ethan Landry.

You were going to make him yours.

#scream #scream 6 #ethan landry #ethan landry x reader #scream ethan landry #scream x reader #imagines #series #ghostface #scream vi

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vesteneris · 3 months

Note

I love your Annie design soo much and the hc that her stylist dyed her hair red to match the capitol fashion more, I was wondering if you have any more Annie hcs? I would love to hear them ^^

ofc i have more hc, and sketches! >my Annie was a confident career >if it comes to her look she was latina with dark curly hair, and freackles all over her body

>from kinda rich family, her father had few fishing boats and she was going to take over the buisness after him, she was working with 16 yo old boy, who was later in the games with her (he was not a career and she didn’t know he would be in the games before volounteering)

>her bodycount in the games was 2 (bloodbath and the last standing opponent) on her own and next 3 when she was working with her District partner, so 5 in totall, and it was Annie's idea to cause an avalanche of rocks that crushed their camp, my girlie was determined to win

>my arena for 70th games is inspired by the Green Canyon in Turkey, mostly bc there is a dam right there

>when everyone was thinking about her as a confident career she mostly wear bright solid colours

(Everyday working clothes, Reaping outfit, 2 in-between-the-trainings outfits, and dress for the interview with ceasar)

>shes pretty tall (about 178cm)

>after her victory when everyone thought that she win because of her luck not her skills, her stylist starts to dress her in pastel colours that washed her out, to make her look more pale and innocent

>they also dyied her hair red and straighten it, get rid of most of her freackles, starts to just in general making her more white, just everything to make her look more Capitol

>when they finally become a couple with finnick i imagine theyre dynamic kinda like this

Like, c’mon, theyre both teenagers basicly, ofc they’ll be stupid together

>more than 1 year after her games annie could function pretty well (like, for her, not totally at her own, still with nightmares and with screaming crying throwing up, losing in her own thoughts etc) but whenever she would be put in public the capitol would put her on so many calming drugs to make sure she wouldn’t make a scene that she couldn’t even speak and wasn’t mentally present at all

>the whole crown for a Victor from president Snow? Don’t remember a thing. Learn that she was crowned from posters and tv

>thats kinda how her friendship with Johanna started, the new Victor was asked to hang out with previous games winner to make it look like Annie was cool and normal

>theyre trio of besties, Annie, Finnick and Johanna, No one can change my mind

thank you very much for the question anon, I’m just so happy that someone asked me this, I love talking about my version of Annie

#I also hope that you’ll love my future posts about her #Cuz once im done with my exams im unstoppable #annie cresta fanart #annie cresta #thg fanart #hunger games fanart #thg finnick #finnick x annie #odesta fanart #odesta #career Annie #ask #hunger games #catching fire #mokingjay

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fullsunised · 10 months

Note

i’m not sure if you’re doing requests but if not you can ignore this. if so, this is going to sound super random but can i request nct dream reaction to their s/o’s curly hair? thank u

ɴᴄᴛ ᴅʀᴇᴀᴍ¹¹ : ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴄᴜʀʟʏ ʜᴀɪʀᴇᴅ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

. ★彡 genre: fluff

. ★彡 trigger warnings: swear words

. ★彡 requests open

. ★彡 a/n: I expected myself to do ass in this one, but imma say its better than I expected it to be. also, thank you for the request, such a cute idea. AND DISCLAIMER BRO I JUST USED COMMON SENSE, IDK WHAT PEOPLE WITH CURLY HAIR GO THROUGH LEGIT. anyways, hope you enjoy this :))

❝ 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆 ❞

╰─▸ ❝ 愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐋𝐄𝐄 ] ࿐ྂ

he loves playing with it. he genuinely thinks that's the best part about you- of course, he adores every little thing about you but your hair legit makes him wanna die cause its so pretty.

loves pulling on it. not aggressively but like you know, taking a strand and twirling it, or like straightening it to see how it recoils. bro he just loves the way your hair bounces up and down while you walk.

you know damn well, he's studying on the products and shit for your hair. bro he just loves watching it bounce.

╰─▸ ❝愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐍 𝐇𝐔𝐀𝐍𝐆 ] ࿐ྂ

very afraid about the fact that your curls can be delicate. he just loves watching you making your hair in the morning, he sits next to you and hands you all the products you need at the right time, because bro has memorised your hair routine.

bro buys you like twenty five different hair accessories because he can, and because he loves to decorate your hair. probably braids it, or styles it for you. a very artistic person, so explains that.

loves watching you play with it, or loves it if you let him play with it. he loves drawing you as well, especially with your hair all out surrounding your cute little face. so damn cute, couple goals.

╰─▸ ❝愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐉𝐄𝐍𝐎 𝐋𝐄𝐄 ] ࿐ྂ

for him your hair is the best part fr. always using some sort of excuse to touch it all the time. bro has no chill fr. oh you are next to him, he's touching your hair more than any other part of you.

loves resting your head on his lap so that he can run his fingers through your hair all the time. no chill. ong, he loves washing his hair for you. like them therapy sessions where he just does your hair while you relax.

is the type to advice you to experiment. like colouring your hair, maybe trying a different hair style, and bro even does it for you. he just adores it so much. whipped culture vibes.

╰─▸ ❝愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐇𝐀𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐍 𝐋𝐄𝐄 ] ࿐ྂ

man he loves waking up next to you, his face shoved into your hair smelling his favourite shampoo.

boy doesn't ask. he's just walking around, he stumbles upon you and he's touching your hair. you don't mind it of course. ruffles your hair a lot, so that it gets messy and you come to him for a brush.

also, ong he is the type to hide stuff in your hair. pretend they went missing, tease you for hiding it in your hair while you deny it, and then you know he's snickering while you pout after finding that shit he hid on purpose.

╰─▸ ❝愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐉𝐀𝐄𝐌𝐈𝐍 𝐍𝐀 ] ࿐ྂ

adores it from afar. he loves it when you run up to him, cause your hair be bouncing up and down in the air. also is the type to carry a hair tie on his wrist ( that's hot asf ).

boy also adores brushing your hair for you, especially with your bed hair, just uses a comb and brushes through the knots. just loves it absolutely. makes sure to fill up on your hair products and shit.

the type to nag and complain if you straighten your hair even for a evening because bro embrace your natural hair fr. personal hype boy if you ever are insecure about it.

╰─▸ ❝ 愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐋𝐄 𝐙𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐆] ࿐ྂ

buys you the most expensive shit, cause boy needs you to maintain your hair. also the type to buy accessories, and decorate your curls. also a nagger, bro hates it when you change your hair in any way, but loves if you accessorise a lot.

loves watching your bed hair, but also is the type to make fun of the way your hair is in the morning. ong, he's definitely the type to take pictures of you with the messiest of hair instantly after you wake up, and save it as his wallpaper, so that every time he opens his phone, he can laugh at it and coo at it at the same time.

he is very chill about it. like he doesn't treat your hair as any different than straight.

╰─▸ ❝ 愛 . . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ [ 𝐉𝐈𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊 ] ࿐ྂ

he's so adorable about it. bro is awestruck. he just loves watching your hair bounce, he's not the type to be touching it all the time, because he is the secret admirer types.

even if you are having separate conversations in the same room, he is still staring at your hair- bro is that mesmerised. nah, he's so delicate about your hair, like, even if you ask him to touch it, he just grazes it with the tips of his fingers and he loves it already.

his eyes are shining watching your bed hair, or while you are doing your hair routine. trust me, he just loves watching it that's all.

FULLSUNISED.

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redriotinggg · 6 months

Text

When Sanji is bitten by a spider that has eaten the Cupid-Cupid Fruit, the Straw Hats learn there is only one way to cure his illness.

A genuine love confession.

There’s only one crewmate capable of the job.

(read on ao3!!)

—

The Straw Hats have stopped at a small summer island to gather supplies, stock up on necessities, and do any repairs to the Sunny.

When the bulk of the hard work has been done, their captain insists on a bonfire, having found a perfect clearing in the forest.

Sanji’s by the grill, cooking up plenty of burgers, hotdogs, kebabs, and other barbecued treats to fill his crew’s voracious appetites.

He happily watches his crew enjoy their afternoon—Brook’s violin emitting a joyful tune, Nami and Robin engaged in an intense game of cards, Franky enthusiastically sketching something onto a large page, Zoro fast asleep on the grass, and Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp running around as they play their own variation of tag.

Perhaps Sanji’s gaze is drawn to one of his crewmates in particular, following the flow of his curly hair, smiling at the sound of his laughter.

Perhaps. Sanji won’t tell.

“Woah! Look at that!”

The rowdy trio’s game of tag comes to a halt at Chopper’s cry. Luffy and Usopp look to where the reindeer is pointing, their eyes lighting up when they spot the thing that caught his attention.

“Cool!” Luffy begins to race over, but he’s stopped by Usopp.

“Wait! Don’t run, you’ll scare it!”

The trio carefully make their way over to a nearby tree, their attention grabbed by a fairly large spider.

Sanji shudders when he sees the creature. He looks away, focusing on the food. He is not interested in the further details of their exploration.

Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp fawn over the spider, speculating on its species and origins.

“It’s markings kinda look like hearts,” Usopp observes. “They’re even a pinkish-red colour.”

“Aw, so cute!” Chopper squeals.

“I’m gonna name it Cupid!” Luffy declares. “That guy’s in charge of hearts ‘n stuff, right? This lil' girl could be his pet or something,” he laughs.

A bit later, Sanji calls out to them. “Oi, get your asses over here, the food’s ready! And wash your hands if you’ve been touching bugs!”

Saying their goodbyes to Cupid, the boys rush over to claim their dinner.

The crew happily enjoys their meal, thanking Sanji with wide grins that only get wider when he presents them with dessert.

As the evening turns to night, the crew wind down, packing away their belongings and making their way back to the Sunny.

“Are you sure we can’t stay and camp?” Luffy whines. “It’s like, the perfect night for it! We've got the perfect spot!”

“No,” Nami denies flatly. “We didn’t bring the stuff for it and it’s already getting late. Plus, I want to sleep in my own bed. Now hurry up and get going! Franky! Turn on your flashlights, I can’t see!”

“One set of nipple lights, comin’ up! Ow!”

Usopp and Sanji take up the rear, picking up the last of Sanji’s portable kitchen gear. The chef is happily listening to the sniper’s latest tale when he feels a pinch on his ankle.

“Ow! What the hell?”

“Sanji! Are you okay?”

“Yeah. I think something just bit me.”

Usopp looks in the grass, trying to find the culprit. When he does, he gasps. “It’s the spider from before! Cupid, why’d you go and bite Sanji? That’s not nice!”

“‘Cause it’s a good for nothing insect,” Sanji grumbles.

“Actually, it’s an arachnid—”

“You better not have poisoned me, you stupid bug,” Sanji yells at the spider, which scurries away.

“It’d be venom, not poison.”

“You are not helping!” Sanji snaps. “What is this, a Robin impression? Stop with the unnecessary bug facts, this shit hurts!”

“Does it really? You should get Chopper to look at it as soon as we get back to the ship. Here, gimme your stuff, I’ll carry if for you.”

“I can carry it myself, asshole. I’m not that weak.”

“Really? ‘Cause if you’re in pain, the Great Usopp would be more than happy to carry you back to the Sunny.” Usopp smirks and flexes his muscular arms, sending Sanji a wink.

Sanji pretends like his heart isn’t trying to escape his chest and throw itself at Usopp’s feet.

Internally, Sanji is a mess. Externally, he rolls his eyes and hefts his baggage further in his arms.

“You do two push-ups and think you’re a strong guy now, huh? C’mon, let’s go before any other bugs try to make a meal outta me.”

When they make it back to the Sunny, all of their things put away, Usopp continues to hover by Sanji, his concern rising with each passing moment.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Usopp asks. “You’re all red. You shouldn’t be sweating this much.”

“‘M fine,” Sanji mumbles. The way he sways on the spot doesn’t do much to help his case.

Usopp holds him steady, in full crisis mode as he watches the usually stable chef falter. He hoists Sanji in his arms, dashing to the infirmary. “CHOPPER!”

“What happened?” the doctor asks. Usopp puts Sanji on the bed and recounts the tale.

By now, the rest of the crew has come to investigate the cause of the commotion. They all stand in the doorway, shocked to see their crewmate suddenly so ill.

“It’s only been like 20 minutes! Why does he look bad already? Sanji, don’t die!”

Usopp’s dramatic cry unfortunately has some merit. Sanji doesn’t look well. He is the complete opposite of the perfect picture of health he was less than an hour ago. In just a few minutes, Sanji seems to have lost all of his energy. He’s flushed and sweating, breathing heavily and brows furrowed as he fights some type of pain. Even his usually shiny hair is limp and brittle-looking.

Usopp’s heart positively breaks at the sight.

“I can’t make him a proper anti-venom without knowing exactly what type of spider that was,” Chopper states. He clicks his tongue as he looks at the inflamed, red bite mark on Sanji’s ankle.

“Brook, you help me get Sanji out of this suit. Everyone else, get out so I can treat him. Now!”

The rest of the crew gather on the deck, concern on all of their faces.

“Usopp,” Robin says, pulling the sniper from his worsening spiral of anxiety. “You said Sanji was bit by the same spider that you saw in the forest, right? Draw me a picture. We can use it to get information from the locals.”

Usopp nods. He runs off to the galley and grabs a sketchpad nestled between Sanji’s collection of recipes and cookbooks. Before long, he’s got multiple drawings of the spider, complete with colours and accurate depictions of its heart-shaped markings.

Franky and Nami go to the hospital to ask about an anti-venom while Luffy, Zoro, and Robin go ask around town.

On the Sunny, Usopp paces back and forth, biting his nails and their beds away to nothing as worry engulfs him. He peeks into the infirmary, heart breaking a little more every time he catches a glimpse of Sanji’s pained face.

“Sanji will be alright,” Brook assures him when he exits the room. “He’s stable for now. Our cook is strong. He’s got the best doctor caring for him and crewmates desperately seeking out information. He’ll pull through.”

Usopp tries his very best to believe him.

The rest of the crew returns to the Sunny in less than an hour. Everyone, except Sanji, who’s resting in the infirmary, gathers at the kitchen table.

“Turns out that our little spider has eaten a Devil Fruit,” Robin tells them. “Everyone in the area is familiar with the spider that has eaten the Cupid-Cupid fruit.”

“Wait, the spider is actually related to Cupid? That’s hilarious! I’m like a fortune teller! Hahahaha! Ow!” Luffy rubs his sore head, pouting at Nami.

“A bite from the Cupid Spider can do multiple things, depending on who is bitten," Robin continues. "However, it only causes illness in someone who has a requited love but has not actually expressed their love. To save Sanji, whoever is in love with him must tell him the breadth of their true feelings, lest he remain bedridden forever. Or worse.”

The crew sits in silence for a moment, reflecting on the information.

“Alright, who’s in love with Sanji?” Luffy demands.

All eyes go to Usopp.

He is so red in the face Chopper is concerned he'll pass out. His eyes are so wide Zoro wonders if they'll pop out of his head.

"What are you waiting for?" Nami cries. "Get in there and confess your love so Sanji gets better!"

"I-I-I-I-I-I'm not—"

"Oh, please, this is not the time for your anxious, denial bullshit! Go fix Sanji!"

"Can't we just kill the spider instead?" he suggests meekly.

Luffy and Chopper gasp in betrayal.

"That would be a bad idea," Robin warns. "That spider is very well-respected on this island. Causing it harm would no doubt incur the wrath of all the locals. There is nothing you can do but speak from the heart."

"You got this, Usopp-bro! Just tell Sanji how you feel! It'll turn out super!"

On stiff legs and with wobbly knees, Usopp leaves the galley and makes his way back to the infirmary, deaf to the sounds of his crew's encouragements.

Despite his desperate pleas to the universe, Sanji is awake when Usopp steps inside. He looks even worse than before. His skin is pale, covered in a sheen of sweat. His eyes are lidded and he's got bags under them like he hasn't slept in days. But even still, a smile lights up his face when he sees the sniper.

"Usopp," he says, voice quiet and raspier than usual. His smile is no less bright.

"Sanji," Usopp returns, taking a seat next to the bed. "I've got news. So, turns out that the spider that bit you has a Devil Fruit power."

Sanji scoffs. "Of course it does. Just my fucking luck. So, what? It ate the Sick-Sick fruit and now I'll feel like shit forever?"

Usopp chuckles drily. "No, nothing like that. We can actually help you pretty easily. Or, I can, anyway. I just... I have to... to..."

The sniper closes his eyes as a fresh wave of anxiety washes over him. He can't do this! It's too scary! But he has to.

How many times has he been in this position? Forced to watch someone he loves suffer from an illness, unable to do anything but try and distract them from their pain.

This time is different. Usopp can stop this. He can stop Sanji's suffering. All he has to do is be honest.

Well, best to rip off the band-aid.

Taking a deep breath, Usopp grabs Sanji's clammy hand in both of his. "I love you!"

"I-I've loved you for a long time, Sanji," Usopp admits, and the words start flowing, unable to stop. "I don't know when exactly it started, but I know that I do because I think you're so amazing! You're so cool, and strong, and talented. I love that you act all grumpy but you're actually extremely kind and considerate. I love spending time with you! I love it when you tell me stories about Zeff and the Baratie. I love that you always ask me questions when I'm telling you about something because you make me feel heard. I love that you always wrap your arms around me when we party. I love it when you smile at me and dance with me.

"I love how you look in the early morning and when the sun is setting. Well, I love how you look all the time because you're so gorgeous it isn't fair! All handsome and pretty at the same time. You dress nice, and you smell nice, and you make me food and protect me—! Sanji, I love you!

"I'm sorry it took a stupid spider to force me to say it but I lov-"

Usopp's speech is cut off as desperate lips meet his own. He melts into Sanji's embrace, returning the kiss with all he's got. His heart is beating so fast he thinks it might pop right out of his chest, but nothing could possibly take him away from this moment.

When they pull apart, foreheads resting against one another, Usopp is taken aback by Sanji's appearance. He looks as healthy as ever, save for his very intense blush. But his eyes are shining and his smile is hopeful and adoring.

"Do you mean it, Usopp? Do you really feel that way about me?"

"I do. A-And you? D-do you feel...?"

"The same," Sanji promises. "Everything that you said, I feel the same way. Usopp, I love you! I—did you really just cure me with a love confession?"

Usopp blinks, and then he bursts out into laughter. Sanji joins him, the two holding one another as they laugh at the absurdity of the situation, their hearts full to bursting.

"Anything is possible on the Grand Line," Usopp reminds him. "Especially for the number one lover on the seas, the great Captain Usopp!"

"Number one lover, huh? I don't know if I believe that." Sanji pulls Usopp in close, whispering into his ear. "I think you'll have to show me."

"T-that can be arranged."

Usopp leans in and Sanji goes to meet him, lips pressing together again, and again, and again.

#btw robin was 100% lying about the islanders caring about the spiders they do not give af #but she had to make sure her crewmates got together!! what a good friend #poor chopper couldn't go back into the infirmary all night #believe it or not this was supposed to be a drabble or fic outline...... idk what happened #i just wanted an excuse to write sanuso and the strawhats. sue me.#this was so fun i love these two!!! sanji HATES that a bug can be accredited to his relationship btw. usopp loves it.#'she was our guardian angel!! our cupid!!' 'NO!!!!!'#i couldn't figure out how to include this but the more in love u are the worse ur symptoms. which is why sanji was so sick so fast.#he was too gay and too in love WOW that's hilarious. i love them.#sanuso #usosan #sanji #usopp.#black leg sanji #god usopp #one piece #strawhats #red's fic

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cc-horan28 · 3 months

Text

Be My Valentine - 3

It Was Always You

(G) 700 words

Louis Tomlinson x Harry Styles

But standing here, in the urinals, of all places, Louis would have put his hand on a DVD of Grease and sworn to it.

He was in love.

Louis falls in love at first sight

No Warnings!

A/N: This one’s just a silly little ficlet. Based of course on the Oops, Hi! Headcannon. As always, thank you to Akeyla for this fest and prompts!

Title from Louis’ ‘Always You’

Louis had known he would make it. It wasn’t anything specific that made him think that. Hell, he hadn’t even seen the boy’s face properly. But there was something about the curly mop of hair, the way he held himself at a slight angle, the voice floating across the crowd as he talked to one of the producers that made Louis feel sure of it.

He hadn’t been able to look at him for long, all the people he had come with quickly surrounded him, and besides, he had to warm up for his own audition. But had anyone asked him, he would have denied it. He would have blatantly denied having spent the whole day with his eyes trained on the waves of people passing through the door, hoping for a glimpse of the brown haired boy, whom he’d started referring to as ‘Curly’ in his head already.

And again, if he had spent any amount of time in fantasies revolving around how Curly would react if he called him that, about what he would look like… in some other scenarios, he had the full right to refuse and keep it to himself.

But standing here, in the urinals, of all places, Louis would have put his hand on a DVD of Grease and sworn to it.

He was in love.

Yes, he was aware they hadn’t yet shared a single word, except for the awkward encounter in said urinals he didn’t want to elaborate on, but his mind was made up anyways.

“Hi,” he whispered as he stepped towards the row of sinks, voice wavering a little nervously as he turned the tap on, catching the boy’s eye in the mirror. “I’m Louis,” he smiled, trying not to stare when he saw how green the boy’s eyes were, “Tomlinson,” he added quickly.

“Harry Styles,” the boy smiled back, and Louis had the insane feeling that this was the only name he’d ever want to say for the rest of his life. It was always going to be him. He shook the thought away quickly, hoping Harry didn’t notice the colour creeping up his cheeks.

They’d struck up an easy conversation, talking about what song they’d picked and how their auditions had gone. They had both gotten through to the bootcamp, and Harry was currently on a roll, drawling on about how he would miss a week of school for it. Louis wasn’t quite sure what the point of it all was, but he was perfectly content. He would gladly have stood there for hours, just listening to his slow, rambling voice.

They’d stood facing each other a bit awkwardly at the end of the day, families waiting for them outside.

“I wouldn’t worry about it if I was you,” Louis blurted out, “I mean, if anyone’s going to make it, it’s going to be you,” Sure, they were supposed to be competing with each other, but the funny thing was, he meant it. There could be no other name better suited to being in front of the masses, could there?

Louis found himself staring at his dimples, having physically stopped himself from gasping when Harry’s face split into a wide grin. Harry mumbled something back, flushing to the tip of his ears. He gave him an awkward little wave as he walked backward, the promise of seeing him the next day all that registered with Louis’ muddled brain.

He smiled to himself, unable to wait for tomorrow to come as he strode towards his family. He was truly, madly, deeply in love.

A/N: Reblogs are always appreciated 💕

#bemyvalentine2024 #bemyvalentineno3 #love at first sight #larry stylinson #fetus larry #x factor larry #fluff #pure fluff #Harry Styles #Louis Tomlinson #hlcreators #hltracks #hlficlibrary #trackinghome #larry fics #larry fanfiction #larry fluff #one direction

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harry-styles-obsessed · 1 year

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Comfort person

Requested?: yes

Synopsis: y/n is your average girl, just living her best life- one night she goes to a club just expecting to have fun and chill but that all gets twisted when a group of guys hound her and try to take her home with them, but one man who’s kept his eyes on her for the entire night won’t let that happen.

Trigger warnings: talk about drugs/ alcohol, douche-y guys, attempt of spiking a drink. If any of this makes you uncomfortable please read at your own discretion.

Harry x fem! Reader + famous! Harry

Trope: strangers to lovers

“Oh yeah you’re definitely dressed like that for a reason… wanna hook up,” the group of men around you were practically saying the same thing over and over again, your heart was beating out of your chest. You were full of anxiety. These men had been hounding you for a good 10 minutes and no one had said a thing, two blondes were sat either side of you and three guys were inches away from touching your back, keeping you blocked in practically. You felt sick to your stomach. “You’re actually so pretty…” one of them said with a little grin, “I’m Daniel and you are?” He held his hand out for you distracting you completely from your surroundings and you gulp harshly of course his name is Daniel you then slowly reach your hand out shaking his hand “nice to meet you…” you murmur unsure, “I’m y/n. Just here to chill. I don’t want to hook up” you state simply, a look of disappointment forming on Daniel’s face “shame” he spoke, and unbeknownst to you the other blonde on your other side had poured a white powder into your drink, his mates egging him on further but you didn’t really focus on that too focused on how uncomfortable they were making you feel.

However you also didn’t notice the curly haired man, sat down on a table just behind you, his green eyes full of concern as he had watched the whole entire thing. He was going to help a long time ago but he wasn’t entirely sure whether you were actually in trouble or whether they were your friends, but upon seeing the white substance float into your drink, and he knew in an instant that friends most definitely wouldn’t drug each other… Harry was quick to stand up as he moved to where you were sat his tattoos glimmering in the light as he got closer and closer to the bar before he tapped one of the brown haired guys on the shoulder making him move before Harry’s arm wrapped around your waist as he gently pulled you up from your sitting position “sorry to disappoint, I’ve got to whisk this one away… she’s not feeling too well. An early night is in order for her.” He chuckled out as you looked up at your saviour his jawline sharp, eyes a beautiful green colour and face the exact beauty of an Angel. You recognised him well- he was Harry styles but right now wasn’t the time to fangirl about that…

“Aren’t you from that boyband? One direction.” One of them laughed out, “oh yeah you’re so right! The band that’s so gay. Try to convince everyone they’re straight but really they’re all fucking,” the man chastised clearly trying to get on Harry’s nerves “ha ha very funny. You all look like you give each other blowjobs in the bathroom… don’t you? Got no woman to help you out so you do what bros do, yeah? Is that why you drugged her drink? Yeah I saw that.” He said immediately shutting the rowdy group up as you looked up to him shocked… they had drugged your drink? Shit your heart sank into your stomach. That knowledge made you feel sick and vulnerable. Harry then picked up the glass that had been drugged before he threw the red liquid into Daniel’s face watching as he clutched his eyes fear seemingly being knocked into all of them at the same time, once a man stands up for a woman they all become weak. Huh. Funny. “Disgusting, all of you. Buck up your fucking ideas otherwise I will press charges… if I really wanted to I could get the cops to arrest your dumb asses right now but I like to think you’ll all change.” He said knowing they wouldn’t change, Harry didn’t like using his fame to his advantage but knowing these men were going to hurt you an innocent vulnerable woman made him feel sick. “C’mon” he soon murmured looking down at you as he lead you out of the club, hand remaining on the small of your back as he guided you outside to safety. Harry would’ve done so much more if it weren’t for the fact that he wanted to comfort you, his breathing slightly unsteady with anger. What he had done wasn’t enough but was enough at the same time, his actions were completely justified. He found it incredibly disturbing and humiliating how no one else stepped in to help you�� knowing this most likely happened to other people and people just sat and watched it. Allowing it to happen.

Soon you both stopped walking Harry turning to look at you “have you got a way home?” He asked studying you carefully, almost analysing you “I can call a taxi… don’t worry.” You assured immediately pulling your phone out of your pocket but he shook his head “no… I want to make sure you get home safely.” He said and you blinked confused… why did the Harry styles want to make sure you got home safely? So it was true? He was the kindest man to exist… “you don’t have to.” You said softly but he shook his head “I want to. I’m Harry by the way.” He held his hand out for you to shake, the rings that adorned his fingers were the first thing you noticed and you gently took his hand into your own giving his hand a light shake “pleasure to meet you Harry… my names y/n.” You said softly keeping eye contact with him as he didn’t let go of your hand giving a tight but gentle squeeze as he smiled “likewise, y/n.” He said calmly and kindly his eyes scanning over your features for a few moments “are you okay? They didn’t hurt you did they? Here… let me take a look at you.” He murmured letting go of your hand just so he could rest his hands upon your shoulders, his green gentle eyes full of worry as he seemingly looked you over for any wounds or such: the way he said it made your stomach flutter with butterflies. A man you barely knew- personally- offered more care and kindness than any man you had known for years. “I’m okay I promise.” Your words were soft and gentle as he silently looked at you making sure you were okay and unharmed and once he had realised that you were unhurt and just fine a small tight lipped smile tugged at his lips as he nodded “just a bit shaken up. If they tried to touch me I would’ve you know… put up a fight.” You said honestly and Harry nodded starting to walk with you to his car and he opened the door for you, like the gentleman he was and once you got in you buckled your seatbelt before letting out a soft sigh… that was most definitely the last time you ever went to a club alone.

You soon told Harry you address and he began driving his large hands resting on the steering wheel, you felt nervous not because of who he was of course not but rather what had just happened and he seemingly noticed that his free hand immediately dropping just next to the gear stick his palm faces upwards his fingers spread as if welcoming you to hold his hand and you quickly did just that taking a hold of his hand in yours intertwining your fingers with his. You held his hand in your lap your free hand gently tracing over his tattoos. No words needed to be spoken to understand what you were feeling and how the simplicity of him allowing you to hold his hand comforted you enough to help sooth your nerves. As he slowed down at a red traffic light his head turned to look to you his eyes scanning over your worried expression his hand gently squeezing yours “you’re okay.” He said softly and you turned to look at him nodding your head as you smiled gently “I know… thank you… I just can’t help to think what would’ve happened if you didn’t step in.” You murmured softly and he stroked his thumb against your skin, not even realising the traffic light had turned to green “I’m sure your gut instinct would’ve gotten you out quick enough… I like to think someone else would’ve stepped in but… as you said… I’m sure you would’ve put up a good fight and scared them all off.” He said with a soft chuckle, the traffic light flicking back to red but he didn’t seem to notice or rather care all he cared about was you in this very moment. “Yeah… what I’ve learnt is if you act just as crazy as them they become terrified… one guy barked at me so I barked at him and ran after him, he ran so fast he ran into a pole.” You said the funny story making Harry throw his head back as he laughed a curl of his hair gently resting against his forehead another curl doing the exact same thing creating a little heart shape on his forehead “you barked at him? That’s top notch… hilarious. Good for you” he said grinning at you as he gave your hand a squeeze before he finally began to drive again but he didn’t dare let go of your hand keeping your hand in his… he quite liked holding your hand. It was nice.

As he pulled up outside of your apartment you let out a soft sigh “you live alone?” He asked softly and you nodded your head, you weren’t looking forward to stepping into the empty apartment by yourself… you were slightly paranoid. Of course it would pass but still it was unnerving and Harry seemed to sense that “here I’ll walk you in” he said and you shot a grateful look his way as you got out of the car waiting for him and once he was by your side he rested his hand on the small of your back as he began walking with you towards your front door, his fingertips lightly rubbing against your back in a comforting manner and once the door was open you held your breath “I’ll go first” he comforted without even questioning or asking you why you were so worried or even beginning to humiliate you like most men would… most men wouldn’t understand it and would tell you to just move on with your life but you couldn’t… even if they weren’t there you were still scared. You followed after him flicking on the lights and once in the living room you sat down your heart racing, Harry without even saying anything doing a quick sweep around the house- checking in wardrobes, under your bed, everywhere… just to sooth your anxieties. He was truly boyfriend material.

You were quick to put on some tv, some happy tv and once Harry returned he stood just in front of you, his eyes searching yours silently “is it okay if I stay? Even if it’s just till you fall asleep?” He asked not wanting to leave you alone not for tonight at least, you were clearly scared and traumatised. “Yes of course” you quickly obliged nodding your head and a small smile formed on his face before he sat just beside you the both of you watching the tv silently and soon enough his arm wrapped around your shoulder pulling you into him your head lightly resting on his shoulder and he just held you wanting to make sure you knew you were safe. No words were said once again, it was simply silence knowing you were safe with him and soon your fingers began creeping towards his, your index finger hooking with his thumb, his fingers doing the same as he held your hand lightly your head slowly lifting to look him in the eyes the realisation in both of your eyes proving both of your thoughts and he without even saying anything cupped your cheek with his free hand pulling you in close to him as he kissed you gently but deeply, his other hand keeping a hold of yours before you pulled yourself onto his lap wanting to be close to him as you wrapped your arms around his neck, the both of you kissing… making out for a good long while the kiss passionate but loving. Not too fast but not too slow either. Just right. The way he placed his hands… his hand placement… gods it drove the butterflies in your tummy wild and soon Harry pulled away, just enough so his forehead could rest against yours “I’m sorry if I got into that too fast but… gods… couldn’t help myself.” He murmured but you shook your head smiling “I loved it” you whispered before pulling him close again as you kissed him once more deeply but gently, he made you feel safe and secure… you didn’t want to leave his side… maybe this journey of strangers to lovers wouldn’t end up so bad… maybe just maybe you had found your comfort person.

#x reader #harry edward styles #harry styles x y/n #harry styles #yn #comfort #imagines #stories #protective Harry #protective #harry styles x you #harry styles comfort #x reader x harry styles #happy ending #tw triggers

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tuliprry · 2 years

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sunbeam

prompt: ballerina!yn x barista!harry, y/n is a ballerina and harry works at the café in the same building, both have a little crush on each other

warnings: fluff, mentions of ed, christmas

word count: 1.7k

part 2 part 3 part 4 part 5

the pointe shoes clicked and clacked around her, she was sitting down still wearing her leather split soles with ribbons. most of the girls in this class were more advanced than y/n, this was her fourth month in this ballet class for adults, truth be told the first time y/n walked into the ballet class she was looking for the yoga room, right next door, but the teacher was nice and convinced her to try at least just one class.

so here she is in a pink maillot, pink tights, beige wrap skirt and the beige coloured sole shoe with matching ribbons, her hair is up in a bun with her curtain bangs falling out, the brown warm-up shrug sat on top of her dance bag. outside, london was covered in rain, y/n could shiver just thinking about walking to the tube in this weather, she quickly smiled to herself thinking about getting a latte downstairs from the cute barista.

harry. harry is his name, he has messy curly brown hair, usually partly up with a black clip, he is tall, like way too tall compared to y/n that says she’s 153cm but she’s actually 3cm shorter than that, he is always singing while making orders, y/n thinks he sounds like an angel, she also thinks it’s the most cliché thought she’s ever had.

he has the schedule of the classes on his phone, he likes to know when y/n is coming, his heart fluttered when she came in the other day to work, he peeked a little and asked her what she was doing, he learned that y/n was a photographer and her latest project was women from various ages and their portraits, from a 6 year old to a 81 year old. he was so intrigued, he wanted to be a writer, a poet even but would find himself without a single thought in his mind and a blank page in front of him. so he envied y/n for a hot minute, for being a photographer and a ballerina and for keeping his mind racing thinking of her… most of the time.

the class ended and y/n put her skirt and sole shoes in the dance bag, dressed a pair of white sweatpants, white sneakers and the brown warm-up shrug, holding a big brown coat on her arm, to be only worn once she left the building. the other ballerinas ran outside to smoke, y/n hasn’t been able to befriend none of them, mostly by lack of trying, she liked her own little cosy space and getting out of her shell wasn’t easy. also she doesn’t smoke. or has even tried. the feeling of being out of place is always there, the pointe shoes, the smoking and her maillot being a size extra large.

“if i have to make another special christmas baby jesus toasted white mocha i’m quite literally going to commit a crime so big” harry sighed to his co-worker, charlie, “y’might want to calm down harry, your ballerina is coming downstairs right now”, harry immediately turned around, trying to fluff his hair and accidentally hitting the black clip, “fucking christ”, he whimpered hoping she hadn’t seen his stupid moment. “hello harry” she smiled at him still gripping onto the dance bag. “y/n! i didn’t know you were coming today” liar. “d’ya want your usual? please don’t ask me for a santa inspired drink i’m so tired of those”, y/n just smiled at the man in front of her, he was usually expressive and that was something that got her hooked. “actually, can you make me an oat milk hot cocoa? it looks freezing out and i need a boost before i go on the tube” harry looked to the glass doors to make sure the weather was still shit and then mouthed a small okay.

“y/n i was wondering, would it be okay if we exchanged numbers? i mean, i want to ask you out and fuck i mean-“ harry’s words are slurring in front of her, she’s still drinking her hot cocoa in a heart shaped mug and so is harry, taking his 10 minute break to just make a fool out of himself in front of y/n. “when do you wanna go out?” she says placing the mug back on the table trying to look calm and collected. “are you free tonight?”

harry had never seen y/n out of her ballet clothes, he had tried looking for her on instagram but it seemed impossible having only her first name and knowing she lives in london, he was so eager to see her coming out of the convent garden station, “not nervous shits, not now” he thought to himself, he was leaning on a lamp post, to y/n this was a scene out of a 00s brit rom-com, indulged them so much as a child she now craved a story like that for herself.

speeding up the stairs from the tube, she was wearing a silk pink dress with a square neck and long sleeves, flowing to her wrists, sheer tights and cognac platform mary janes, the same long brown coat from earlier today, on top a light brown shoulder bag, matching her shoes. harry was wearing dark brown pants with lighter brown stripes and a rosy beige shirt with the same light brown stripes, y/n could see him from inside the station, he was adjusting his almost to the feet long black coat and rubbing his hands to try and warm them up a bit.

then he saw her, loose hair with long curls that fell on her shoulders like pieces of a puzzle, walking up to him with a smile on her face, he took close attention to all details about her, the lipstick that matched the dress, her eyeliner that he would swear it has to have taken her forever to do and the pink leg warmers he knew so hell peeking out of her shoulder bag. “hey! can we please walk to the place? it’s freezing and i didn’t have where to sit on the tube to put my leg warmers on”, he was still mind fucked about her presence, she was like a sunbeam on the london dark rainy evening, “hello…. yeah, do you want my help? ..for the leg warmers? i can hold your stuff”, harry felt little, even thought he was 30 centimetres taller than the girl in front him.

harry was on cloud nine learning about this girl, she was also a vegetarian, making his little heart do flutters at a shared love for animals, she has a cat named oli, she thought oli was a boy and named it oliver so y/n changed the name to oli, harry also has a cat, a little patched tabby cat named poppy. “what is speaking to you?” harry asks pointing at the menu, “ummm the fiori di zucca repieni di ricotta sounds too good to pass on, do you wanna share?” his mouth opened, speechless, “you speak italian?” he asked, “yeah i did erasmus in rome!” she said enthusiastically, “i trust you, let’s share then”

the dinner was filled with laugher, lots of sharing their food and drinking really good wine, they even shared a pistachio gelato afterwards, even though it was freezing out and the news had mentioned a possible storm. “do you ever think.. of what you want to do outside of being a barista?” y/n asked, her hand was intertwined with harry’s as they walked outside convent garden market, “oh all the time, i really want to be a writer, a poet. my muse just has been asleep lately, every time i try to write it’s like my mind gets blank” he’s honest, writing has been the last thing on his mind, working part time at the café as well as doing a little freelancer for some newspapers and magazines harry has little to no time to fully write, “it’s a curse being creative harry, i get it. i really do.” they’re walking past the royal opera house and y/n stops, lets go of harry's hand and just stares, as a child it was a dream to be part of the royal ballet and perform right there, instead she takes an adult class with other people that couldn’t attain that dream. she doesn’t resent herself or the dreams she used to have, she loves her life right now, it’s just that little tingly feeling of tiny y/n wanting this so badly.

“what are you thinking about y/n?” harry asked, placing the now lonely hand on her back, gently caressing it, "sorry, i just haven't walked past the royal opera in a bit", y/n turned to harry with an it's okay look on her face and grabbed his hand again, "dance for me", harry blurred out, he didn't really filter his thoughts at this point of the night, he wanted to see her dance so badly his heart was finally speaking over his brain, "right here? in the middle of the street?" y/n is a little perplexed but the idea grows inside of her.

they're now at harry's house, y/n opened spotify on her phone and pressed play on better version by sabrina claudio, this isn't what she usually dances to but she feels free with harry, taking her shoes off, standing barefoot in harry's cedar coloured carpet.

i made the perfect you in my head, cause physically you are the blue print

her hips moved to the rhythm and she found herself repeating what she had been rehearsing fot the last four months in class, harry was mesmerised, not that she was the greatest ballerina in the world but she was to him, he could not get his eyes off of her, following the movement attentively, almost like burning this moment on his brain so he would never forget, the core memory of actually falling in love with this girl

when the song ends, harry pulls y/n to his lap and just whispers sweet nothings in her ear, brushing his fingers through her arms and hair, just enjoying her late night company, he's a hopeless romantic and has been finding the right moment to kiss her and tell, tell everyone possible in the world that he has kissed such a pretty girl it has the pasta on his stomach doing flips.

"can i kiss you?"

"fuck yes please"

#harry styles imagine #harry fic #harry styles one shot #harry styles fic #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles #harry styles smut #harry styles blurb #harry styles x y/n #harry styles x plus size reader #harry styles x reader #harry styles x you #harry styles writing #harry styles au #tuliprry #harry x reader #barista!harry #ballerina!yn #older!harry

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silverdynetrutherr · 2 months

Text

i wrote this little fic about kerry and v in the tower ending and got upset when nobody really read it sorry i’m shallow like that so here it is in full;

it’s not very long and if you do read please lmk what you think 🙏

Kerry’s hair had grown longer, reaching his shoulders generously now. It was darker than that platinum blonde colour he used to have. It was a silver now, loose curls created shade to make it look greyer. It wasn’t very often soft, courtesy of the product he used to curl it. Kerry’s hair was never naturally curly. He had been through phases in his life where he had loose curls, waves, more like. Now he was more concerned about heat damage, and tended to avoid hot curlers where he could. When the loose curls fell out, in the shower, in harsh winds that he always loudly groaned at, it was about an inch longer, and looked brighter. It looked soft today.

Where Kerry’s head was laid on V’s lap, V took note of all the times he had thought of Kerry’s hair. And all of the other intricate, minor details about him. Like the way his left eye twitches when he sleeps, the way V was sure it was right now, the way he got silently frustrated when his knuckles wouldn’t crack, the way stopped for a second look every time he saw a picture of the ocean.

He was snoring lightly, as he always did, lying on his left side, sound asleep for a short while in the afternoon.

In the home they had, outside of the city somewhere, a quieter place, they sat on the couch which had excessive, eccentric blankets. The floors were wooden, a dark, rich mahogany which complimented the walls.

V ran his hand over Kerry’s head repeatedly as he slept, he hadn’t intended to soothe him to sleep but the gentle, even breaths had indicated it had happened anyway.

It was quiet, to both of them it’d be known as silent. All that could be heard was gentle breaths and distant cars owned by peaceful people. There was a just as peaceful light that bled into the room, that grazed and graced everything it touched like discreet glitter. The room was warm, it was summer. V’s chest felt warm, he was in love. Light shone in through the windows, dulled into fragments, streaks that lit up the room still. On the only slightly dusty windowsill, there were equal streaks on the wood that were sun-bleached lighter, evidence of living, and open curtains.

His hand moved to brush over Kerry’s cheek, moving stray hair behind his ear, careful not to wake him up. He wanted everything to stay exactly like this. Where he could watch the curtains sway with the breeze, where he could run his hands over Kerry’s head and look at the way the rings on both their fingers glimmered in the light. Where he could think uninterrupted.

And he thought about, often, how it had been five years since he had been sat on that AV with Johnny. The sun bled in through the wide open door in a similar way to how it was now. He didn’t remember the date, he didn’t think it would be significant enough an event to do so. But he thinks of how it had gotten to that point. He thinks of every moment shared, every word said and those he couldn’t remember that he had with Johnny. It was a story, a timeline of events that felt so distant now, before growth. The memory of that specific moment, or, of several moments only hours between one another; calling Reed, discussing with Johnny, boarding the AV, and the others.

It had been five years since he had sat on that AV, feeling his brows tense together in sorry determination.

There was something in him, then, that kicked, screamed, and begged him to leap off onto the nearest building and look for another way. A pulling force that yanked through skin, bone and soul, that wasn’t strong enough to stop him.

He had looked at Johnny, and only truly being able to recognise what he had felt for him then and there, when the sedatives kicked in. He had loved him.

‘Soulkiller’ suggested that the use of the relic was to connect two souls, something deeper than a mind, or the person hoarding it. It was an intricate interlocking of the integral parts of someone’s being; their soul. Johnny had died before. He had died in a violent, painful way V wouldn’t have wished on anybody. And then he got to know him, feel him within every nerve cell that fired a signal, shared substance, it was followed by love.

He made the choice to let that go. He made the choice to take all that was left of Johnny’s soul, and to trample every hope, wish and dream he ever had, and every moment they had shared together. But then again, they were never singular moments. What they had was an unbroken line of shared existence, one moment, prolonged. V made the choice to make it so that nowhere, in any place on earth, feet on ground or metaphysical, would be home to Johnny. V thought about it a lot, like he was now, and had done for the past three years he had spent conscious.

There was nowhere for Johnny to sit.

Where was he going to sit?

There were two fighting forces on the AV, two colliding ideals which V had of what his future looked like. He held both very dear to him, ever the dreamer. One, in which he really could have seen himself laughing with Johnny in murky or luxurious bars after gigs, the one that he could have seen himself scoring jobs from the top fixers, and not needing to ask if Johnny would tag along. He would have made a name for himself, and been able to feel Johnny’s heart beating fast under bones he alone owned. The other, in which he really could have seen himself spending days and nights in Kerry’s villa, on the couch watching whatever Kerry wanted to put on. Sitting on the floor on rainy days, chin on his knee as he listened to Kerry bounce ideas for songs around in his head. Falling asleep to quiet distant rock songs in the dark, with his forehead pressed to Kerry’s nape. Going to crazy expensive restaurants, hating the food and opting for cheap pizzas at Caliente’s. Late night swims in the pool, watching Kerry perform to filled out stadiums from the stage wing. Kissing, laughing, feeling, knowing. Such a plausible, tangible life that V knew Kerry wanted, and only wanted with him. Only one of these ideas would have ever been possible. Kerry had a home, a career, friends, connections, income and a body. Johnny had none and V had jumped through these loops of justification for years, and years, and years. And he wonders if he was there again, making that decision, would it be the same.

And he knows it would be. The same way he knows Kerry’s left eye twitches when he sleeps, the way he got silently frustrated when his knuckles wouldn’t crack, the way stopped for a second look every time he saw a picture of the ocean. The way he knew that he never could have felt Johnny’s skin on his own, the same way he knew it would not feel better than the way Kerry’s felt. V could think in circles for the rest of his life, but the fact was that he didn’t want anything more than what he had now. He didn’t want to ‘find another way’ to save his life when it did not exist, and it did not exist. The fact was that nothing in the world would have stopped him. No single thing on Earth or anywhere else could have changed his mind about using the neural matrix, not a two-year coma, not Kerry literally being in space, and not V’s love for Johnny. Not when Johnny had loved him just as much, and forgave him so easily, like there was nothing to forgive.

And he looked at the framed photograph of himself and Kerry, on the small table by the couch, which captured the two before they had moved out here, a moment where Kerry had grabbed V’s face and kissed his cheek. He was trying to be annoying, but the photo only showed V laughing, and there was nothing to forgive. Kerry had once told him to take his own advice. For all the times V had told Kerry that everything with Johnny was in the past, that it didn’t matter anymore, he only realised that it was easier said than done after Johnny was gone, again. But Kerry got through, he had done it. Through one last gig, grenades and fire on water, Kerry had outgrown it. And V was doing it. Through strokes of his cheek, meals indoors, quiet, and an amulet in the bedside drawer. He was doing it.

Kerry started snoring on V’s lap. The attitude of ‘fuck everything else’ was learned, as was peace. Getting to know Kerry on a deeper level than braindance music videos and billboard advertisements was, by all accounts, a blessing. V had seen his face all his life, known his voice the same way everyone did. The learning of the pattern of his soul, his integral being, what made Kerry Eurodyne, Kerry. It was special, like the first daffodils that blossom in spring, not only because there were so few who could say they had seen Kerry at his most vulnerable, most relieved, most disappointed, most ecstatic, his core, but because nobody else breathing shared what Kerry had in his soul. His spirit, unique and rare, he was someone that you could look for in every person that you had ever met, will ever meet and still never find him, not a trace. V had noted that despite all people being people, individual with their own stories, hopes and dreams, every person could be found in another, a shared list of defining aspects that stopped them from being unique, and made them common, carbon copy cut-outs of the average person. Kerry was the kind of person poets wrote about, made art with words about. His comprehension of emotions, his movement through them, fluid and unsteady. The way his thoughts, feelings always materialised into perfect, physical expressions, the way his actions reflect his story like fire on water. How deeply his emotions were felt, like the roots of a tree, foundation. The way he recognised patterns in his life, and had several surf boards in his villa, just for when he wanted to go to the ocean. Of course, he could not surf. So, the way he had several surf boards, but could not surf. There were lines, after lines of ways V could have put into words what he felt about Kerry. He didn’t believe that he could have done it justice, he was no poet, or writer, not like Kerry was. But he had the rest of his life now to learn more about him, see his habits and the strings of his soul that burned when they were played, and he had the rest of his life to see that even if he was no poet, no lyricist, he could think. And fuck everything else, Kerry had his head laid on his lap as V thought. Fuck everything else.

It was a guilty truth, the way V felt about the entire situation, his whole life. Because he didn’t regret a thing.

When it came down to it, to the core truth, Johnny had no chance, even without V. Even if V had let himself die, merge into another person until there was none of him left, what would Johnny have become? He had made up his mind long ago, about life, about Kerry.

Johnny wouldn’t have made more music, he had tied that part of himself to Kerry, and it was gone. Realistically, he would have caught a bus somewhere else, have found and made his own way. It was not what either Johnny or V had wanted for him. It was always all or nothing.

There was no all, there was nothing.

There was no beating heart, no breathing lungs, only an artificial psyche filled with hidden love, boundless compassion and none of it mattered. There was nothing to save, and V had already saved Kerry and fuck everything else.

He had given up, they both had. And while V and Johnny had discussed that choice, somewhere in the sky, Kerry sat somewhere in Westbrook, waiting with a bouncing knee for a call from V. To say hi.

He ultimately ended up waiting two years for that call. In that two years V had spent under, his entire world had passed him by, like a rough ocean wave he was too far below the surface to feel. When Kerry had picked up that call, coming from the all white room to the Crystal Palace, V felt grounded. When Kerry spoke to him, with nothing but an ecstatic celebration, it was a lifeboat. And then V had seen it was all for something. Unlike Johnny, V was never all or nothing, he saw the way Kerry spoke, realistic, accomplished and he had something. He had waited four months, in which he had seen his home and the wider world move, shift and change into something he didn’t recognise. He was navigating a foreign world, one without Arasaka, without his favourite fixers, without everyone he had made a bond with and one in which all he had was waiting. A world in which he was just a face in the crowd. Those four months were long. He watched the sun rise every morning, and set every night, before he had worked up the nerve to take himself to Kerry’s villa. He had told himself he was just going to tidy the place up a bit, having assumed it was still in a state. He was right. But after everything was clean and tidy, and V almost didn’t recognise the place, he didn’t leave. Everything in the house had its place, where it fit and belonged, and the only place V belonged all along the West Coast was there, alongside it all. He didn’t know what he and Kerry were, if Kerry had moved on. That was what he had spent so long working towards, anyway, if V was the one that taught him how to be individual, not waste his life in mourning, in faithful waiting. He hadn’t known what Kerry would want when he came back home.

But there was one aspect that V had failed to take into account. Kerry had matured, become a great version of himself in which he could find his own way, his own happiness. Kerry was not codependent like he used to be, and it was good. But what V did not understand was that despite all his growing and his learning, that was just the way Kerry loved. How he did it.

Kerry carried his love within his soul. A part of him, as was V. and V could only see this, this overwhelming entirety when he had felt Kerry’s lips on his again.

And the rest was history, everything that came before was history. V had wrapped his arms around Kerry and they had shared this moment in which they just talked, thumbs stroking over hands, connection.

The day that Kerry had come home, the two had learned so much more about one another, and everything that they had both feared fell away. Kerry thanked V for tidying the place up, and for coming back to him alive with a promise of ‘surviving one year with a rockstar’. It was unsaid, it didn’t need to be sworn in words that V would more than survive, and do so for more than just a year, for many, many to come.

Kerry stirred in his sleep, breaking V out of his chain of thoughts, a flow that only one person could have interrupted. V notices that his hand had never stopped stroking over his hair, and the sun had moved through the sky until it shone through the window in an unfortunate position, right over Kerry’s eye. V rested his hand on Kerry’s cheek as he raised his hand to cover his eye, groaning. He shuffled, using V’s knee as leverage to push himself to sit up. He rubbed over his face and the sun on his hair made it look white. V huffed a small laugh.

‘Sleep okay?’ he murmured, moving his hand to resume its position on Kerry’s cheek, and his hand followed to place his hand over V’s.

‘Mhm. had a dream about you,’ Kerry said, blinking slowly.

‘Oh yeah? ‘Bout what?’ V leaned in a little closer, and Kerry laughed as lightly as V had.

‘What, you couldn’t tell by the noises i was making?’

‘You were only snoring, unfortunately.’

Kerry laughed, shoving V’s shoulder. ‘Looks like you’ll have to fuck me better than dream Vincent, tonight.’ he said as he leaned in for a short kiss.

‘You’re the boss.’ V smiled.

Johnny might’ve been a faceless memory, and V might have only been a face in the crowd now, but out here, where the sun shone through the window, and the trees swayed in the June breeze, there were no crowds. And if there ever came a time again in which the two were lost in one, which was sure to happen, V knew Kerry would spot his face from a mile away, standing out. And that was enough for V.

It was everything.

#kerry defence attorney #kerry eurodyne #kerry x v

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waaayoutofline · 2 years

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Find me under the rain.

Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Summary: You are having a pretty rough day when a storm hits. With no umbrella, phone or car, you accept the fate of walking under it. But you didnt expect finding someone while getting soaked by the freezing December rain.

Warnings: None. All fluff.

Your eyes stare at the dark clouded sky, shoulders slumped in defeat at the sight. What was once an easy-breezy rain has become a roaring storm. You were stubborn and overline irresponsible, as you had bought the vinyl record of Folklore instead of the very much needed umbrella.

More regret feels in your stomach as you see none of your study group around, all of them being at home by now. With a sigh you wait for some divine miracle, but at the lack of it, you make your mind.Make a run for it and hope that you don’t get a cold. Those final exams were not going to do themselves otherwise.

You push the library doors, grabbing your bag in hopes to make it some kind of protection from the incessant drops of water. Feet jogging down the stairs, a squeak leaves your mouth as the ice cold water of the ground soaks your feet. Great, now you have wet socks.

“This just gets better and better” You grumble. The storm seems to get intense by the second, the now dark brown coat you're wearing doing nothing to repel the chilling bone cold. Your hair sticks to your front, droplets of water travelling all the way down to your neck. Your jumper doesn’t even bother to dry them any more. The air seems to have a personal vendetta on you as it make it difficult for you to move.

The way to your house seems so fucking far. But taking a taxi on a work day at this hours in New York is less possible than winning the lottery. And you ran out of battery, so calling someone to pick you up isn't an option either.The hope of getting home without being utterly covered in water slowly leaves your body, feet slowing down with a defeated sight. You hold back the tears pricking into the corner of your eyes. This day has been the absolute worst. Everything that could go wrong backfired you right on the face.

But then the incessant heavy droplets stop. And you open your eyes, straightening your back. What the…? Heavy breath startles you slightly, making you turn around.

And suddenly it is like all the bad thoughts and feelings leave both mind and body. All the difficulties of today vanishing along the water that streams down the streets. A girl, a little bit taller than you, clutches one knee with her left while holding a deep red umbrella above you with her right. You notice the black polish, and the neat silver rings on her fingers. Her hair is a long and curly, of a brown kinda reddish colour that suits her very well with her deep, forest green eyes. Her skin seems soft, alongside her slightly opened pink lips. You blush and move your eyes.But every single thing about her seems to be equally enchanting. Your sole focus now on this mysterious woman that took your worries away just like that.

“Damn, you are pretty fast, huh?” The blush of your cheeks seems to raise all the way up to your ears, masking them burn at the sound of her voice. Your jaw slackens, and you are pretty sure that you are looking like a total idiot. “I uh…I saw you on the library. You seemed to be having a pretty rough day.” She comments.

Something in her is quite familiar, but you can put your mind to work.

“And then I saw the way you looked at the sky and… well, not that I was looking at you in a creepy way, I would never do that… but not because I don't find you pretty, because I do…” The redhead rumbles, scratching the back of her neck. You are pretty sure your brain cells must be dead by now. The goddess right in front of you thinks you are pretty? “But I’m trailing off, sorry.” She laughs. “ The point is that I would be glad to escort you home. If you want it so, that’s it.”

You think about saying the typical “I don’t want to bother you, or I’ll be fine”, you just met her after all. But something in her makes you trust her. And you couldn’t find to say no, too mesmerized by her.

“Yeah, I’d like that.” You say softly, the stranger's shoulders lowering with a relieved sigh. And then she smiles. All the cold you previously felt is gone in an instant. “My house is just around the corner.”

She nods, getting closer so the both of you could get under the umbrella. Your arms touch ever so slightly, making a shiver run all the way through your system. You decided it’s because of the weather, that the erratic beating in your chest is because you ran earlier. She smells sweet, like a hint of cocoa and fresh backed cookies. Everything about her seems to make your heart beat a little faster. The adrenaline, you remind again.

“Hope I didn’t come in a creepy way” She excuses, fidgeting with her index ring.

“Well, my mother have always warned me about bringing strangers home, but she didn't mention that they were as gorgeous as you.” You smile a little shy, feeling adoration at the nervous stutter from.

“Well, the name is Wanda. So you don’t get walked home by a total stranger.” She jokes as the two of you start walking.

“Y/N, so you don't walk a total stranger home.”

You two stay silent after the pleasant interaction. But is no an awkward silence, it was a nice kind, that kind that made you feel at peace, a feeling of very much need comfort pacing the anxiety you had felt not even ten minutes ago. It was nice. Wanda was nice. You're even almost tempted to take a longer route, not wanting this pacific moment to end. Not wanting for her to leave just as quickly as she arrived. It was absurd, really, how much you have attached to her in this ridiculously short amount of time.

But as you stole glances, you had this want, almost need to get to know her.

Unfurtonatley, you two finally made it in front of your door, realizing that the storm started to cease. “Of course that it stops right when I get home…” You mumble. Wanda chuckles, closing the umbrella and stepping ever so slightly from you. And so, you to look at each other awkwardly, neither wanting this to end. Yup. Wanda stands in front of you, and you hate the idea of her leaving. So, gathering all the courage you have, you ask. “Want to come inside? I’ll lend you a towel and something to drink. It’s the least I can do after you shared your umbrella with me.”

“Oh, you don’t own me anything…-” She starts, but you just look at her.

“I know, I just want to. If you want it so, that’s it.” You say, copying her exact same words with a sly smile. Wanda shakes her head in amusement and agrees.

“Alright then.” You smile brightly and let her in, closing the door behind her.

It was awkward at first, Wanda following you shyly, waiting for you on the couch while you went to the bathroom for a change of clothes and a pair of towels for her to dry her humid hair. But then, you quickly star falling on an easy conversation, getting to know each other. And you loved every single second of it.

It’s not a heavy conversation by any means, more like silly question thrown at each other like. This is what you have for now.Se has a brother, a twin, Pietro, and they have recently arrived to New York. Her favorite colour is red, she loves cooking, sitcoms and hot cocoa. She prefers cats than dogs, her favourite singer is Taylor Swift and appreciates star gazing at night, even if in New York was impossible to do so

She also has beautiful eyes, her nose scrunches a little when she laughs, and she fidgets with her rings when she gets excited by something she likes. Not that she tells you, you just notice. You seem to notice everything about her.

Hours go by, two now cold cups left on the coffee table. You company to her door, trying to not let your disappointment show. You know it was an act of courtesy, but you feel like it was more than just that. And when Wanda finally starts leaving, that same anxiety of before strangles your heart even harder now. As you look at her like a sad puppy would, you notice. You ran fast to the living room, grabbing it and heading outside in no time.

“Wanda, wait! You're forgetting your umbrella!” You yell. She turns around and gives you a wink.

“Guess we’ll have to meet again for you to return it, then!” And just like that, she’s gone. Your mouth is slightly open, softly laughing at her smugness. As you go inside, a smile piece of paper slowly falls down, sliding right in front of you. You swear the ink was red for an instant before returning to black.

A phone number. Your cheeks are starting to hurt.

Yeah, it settled. You are absolutely infuriated with this mysterious girl.

#wanda maximoff #mcu #fanfic #wanda x reader #fluff #trash post #marvel blurb

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lightsoutletsgo · 2 years

Text

matcha latte (msc.47)

pairing: mick schumacher x fem!reader warnings: cheese, fluff, reader works with kids, lots of petnames from platonic!daniel, platonic!charles and platonic!carlos, shysimp!mick, simp!reader, shitty writing, reader's outfits are described a few times and definitely present more as fem. if that's not your thing, that's okie word count: 9.7k synopsis: you've been crushing on the cute barista at your friend's cafe for a while now. he's been crushing on you too. the only problem? you're both too shy to say anything... maybe you need a helping hand from your large group of friends and the cutest kids. ((this is a fic I wrote and posted on my kpop blog a few years ago that I rewrote to fit F1. it's kinda jumpy and chaotic and it's a mess of like... 8 drivers being a huge friend group... tbh I'll probably rewrite it at some point but I think it's cute so I wanted to post it! pls let me know what you think <33))

You loved your Wednesday afternoons at ‘The Shoreline’ . Ever since you could remember, you’d been coming with Daniel, Charles and Carlos to Pierre and Yuki’s cafe. It was a cute cafe tucked away on the corner of a smaller street, facing the beach. The cafe itself was fairly large once you were inside, but the decor and vibe made it feel warm and homely. The sweet smell of cinnamon sugar mixed in with the more bitter aroma of coffee. The tantalising scent wrapped itself around you like a hug as you entered and you took a deep breath, inhaling the smell. You looked around, taking in the cafe. Worn armchairs were clustered around various styled wooden coffee tables, some taller, some shorter. The armchairs were a mixture of designs and patterns. You weren’t sure what your friend’s had been going for when they chose to decorate with a mixture of slightly eclectic colours but you loved it none the less. The wall to the right of the door had floor-to-ceiling, folding glass doors that allowed for plenty of natural light as well as beautiful views and on hot summer days, the doors would open, allowing the sea breeze to gently brush through and the noise of the ocean to accompany the music playing in the cafe. The main focal point of the cafe though was the large countertop placed at the back wall. It was a huge piece of wood that Pierre had laboriously sanded down and varnished himself. Placed on the countertop was a selection of the most delicious baked desserts and pastries. Behind the countertop was a top of the range espresso machine, coffee grinder and coffee press as well as a fridge that showcased mouthwatering sandwiches and salads. It was a perfect mixture of your friend’s personalities reflected in one small cosy cafe.

You looked around for your best friends, checking your phone for the message from Carlos to confirm they were there. You easily found them at your usual table by the large open doors as you saw Daniel’s curly hair poking up from behind a potted plant and Carlos broad-shouldered frame.

“Hello, my ducky!” Daniel boomed cheerfully as you plopped yourself down in the seat opposite him and Charles, next to Carlos. You giggled at his greeting, “Hi Danny!” He reached across the table and linked your fingers with his, swinging your hand from side to side as you turned to Carlos, “How was your holiday with Lando?! I missed you…” You pouted, Carlos poked your cheek with his index finger as he swallowed the sip of his drink he’d just taken. “It was good! The scenery was great and I took some amazing photos!” “But?” You prompted, “But what?” He said nonchalantly, pretending not to know what you were playing at, “You missed me, right?” You leant on his shoulder as a rumble of laughter worked it’s way up from his chest. “Oh, of course… But I missed Daniel and Charles more!” He exclaimed as he lifted his mug to take another drink. Charles cheered as you nudged Carlos’ shoulder playfully with your own, pulling your hands away from Daniel, “Well, I’m going to get a drink!” You poked your tongue out at Carlos as you stood up, punching his shoulder, “Hey… baby…” Daniel looked at you disapprovingly, as Carlos rubbed his shoulder with fake hurt, “Sorry Dad…” You rolled your eyes. “‘y’, Dad-dy.” Daniel emphasised, making Charles cackle and Carlos gag, “Ew…” You shuddered as you headed towards the counter, Carlos, Charles and Daniel snickering behind you.

As you made your way to the counter, two arms wrapped themselves around your waist, hoisting you into the air, making you shriek. You recognised it to be Pierre, “Pierre put me down!” You were glad there were no other customers in the cafe at that moment. He laughed as he put you back down, “Hi beautiful,” You turned to hug him, closing your eyes and breathing in the scent of vanilla and coffee that was oh-so-Pierre. He patted your head adoringly before whispering to you, “Mick is working today.” Your eyes shot open as you felt your face grow warm. Playing it cool you pulled away from Pierre, “And you think I want to know that because…?” “Because you have a crush.” Pierre deadpanned. You swallowed hard before answering, “I do not!” You were rather indignant. Pierre looked past you, “Oh, hey Mick!” You whirled around to see no one there, turning back to Pierre who was holding his side from laughter, you huffed, “I’m glad you find this funny…” He gently patted your back before guiding you up to the counter. “Hey, Mick!” Pierre called out loudly, “Customer!” You heard him grumbling in the storeroom behind the counter before Pierre cleared his throat, “It’s Y/N.” The grumbling stopped and it was quiet for a moment before you heard the sounds of whispering and shuffling feet. Yuki popped his head out of the kitchen door, “Heya Y/N!” He waved, “Hi Yuki.” You smiled at him before he disappeared back into the kitchen.

There was more whispering and shuffling before poor Mick was all but pushed through the doorway, you bit your lip shyly as you took him in. Despite the summer heat, he was wearing an oversized white v-neck sweater and if you looked from a certain angle you could just see his collarbones peeking out. His sweatshirt was tucked into a pair of jeans that were slightly rolled up at the ankles with his beaten up converse on his feet to finish his outfit. He nervously fiddled with the tie at the front of his black uniform apron before awkwardly adjusting the cap sitting on his head, taking it off to push his hair back before placing it back on his head. His hair looked soft. You imagined running your fingers through it and- ‘Stop it Y/N’ you thought “H-h-hi Y/N.” He kept his gaze on the countertop, finger poking at a few stray crumbs. “Hi Mick,” you couldn’t explain why you felt so flustered, “What can I get for you today?” He asked softly, finally breaking his intense staring contest with the countertop to look at you. You inhaled as he quite literally took your breath away. He gave you a soft smile as he began to nervously fiddle with the sleeves of his sweater which had fallen over his hands slightly, making you squeal internally. “Could I please get a matcha latte?” Pierre rolled his eyes, “I swear you get the same thing every damn time!” “I like them!” You whined, making Mick let out a soft giggle - oh gosh. Your heart beat sped up. “Hot or iced?” You contemplated for a moment, “Iced please…” You trailed off shyly as you looked at the cakes and desserts available, deciding to treat yourself.

As eclectic as Pierre’s colour choices in decorating were, you could say the same thing about some of his flavour options for cakes and drinks. It was part of the reason why the cafe attracted so many people on weekends and holidays. You looked at the options available for the day, mouth already watering. Pierre and Yuki always came up with something new each day, as well as the classic customer favourites and seasonal specials that came out at Christmas and in the summer. The usual things were there; red velvet cake, chocolate fudge cake, chocolate chip cookies, salted caramel and pecan cookies, matcha macarons, vanilla macarons, strawberry macarons and all variety of cupcakes. Then there were the more unusual flavours for today; champagne cream and strawberry scones, lavender honey macaroons, vanilla sponge with mango and coconut mousse filling, Earl Grey sponge with rose buttercream and blood orange and poppy seed polenta shortbread. Your eyes nearly fell out of your head as you gazed at all the options available to you. “Pierre… How am I supposed to pick just one?” You turned to Pierre with wide eyes. Mick found himself struggling not to coo at your cuteness. Damn, he just wanted to squish your cheeks. “Ummm… Can I please take a lavender and honey macaron and a slice of the Earl Grey sponge with rose buttercream, please? Whatever I don’t eat Daniel will finish anyway!” You giggled. Mick nodded as he set about cutting a slice of cake, selecting a macaron and plating it nicely. He passed you the plate, eyes suddenly widening as your fingers brushed his. The two of you froze for a second, staring at each other. Eyes wide and cheeks warm, holding your breath. You were broken out of your trance by a shout of your name, placing the plate down on your tray you turned, “Y/N!” “Lando!” You pulled the tanned boy in for a hug. “Carlos said you had a good time on holiday?” He nodded enthusiastically, “Yeah! But I missed you…” He frowned, you turned to face your table, “See? Lando missed me!” Carlos rolled his eyes at your antics, continuing to sip his coffee, you winced. How on earth could he drink that stuff? It was far too bitter. That’s why you preferred the sweeter yet still earthy taste of a matcha latte. They always seemed especially sweet when Mick made them… Speaking of Mick, he was just finishing making your drink, pouring it over ice. You clapped your hands excitedly as he placed it on your tray. “Anything else?” He pushed his hair back and you gulped suddenly, that did not need to be as attractive as it was. “No, thank you…” You blushed as you picked up the try. He felt his breathing hitch as he caught sight of the cute shy smile spreading across your cheeks. Mick thought it was adorable that your tongue poked out of your mouth slightly as your concentration face took over, your focus completely on carrying the tray back to your table. Pierre walked next to you laughing and joking. Mick sighed. He wished he could be like that with you… Chilled, relaxed, cool. -----------

When Mick walked through the door into work that morning, he knew you’d come in at some point. Wednesday lunchtimes you would always come in with Daniel, Charles and Carlos. You’d stay there all afternoon until closing which was when Pierre, Lando, Yuki and Esteban would join you. Mick would join too but he always found himself too shy to really speak to you.

“Morning Mick!” Pierre greeted him from behind the counter, “Good morning.” Mick reply was quiet, “Miiiiiiiiiiiick!” A tall body suddenly whacked into him and he fought to stay upright as he now bore Esteban’s full weight on his back. He laughed gently at his friend’s antics, patting his arm as it squeezed him tightly, “Good morning Esteban.” “Good morning Mick!” Mick smiled at Lando, patting his shoulder affectionately as he passed him, “Morning Lando!” He entered the small staff room and put his bag down before grabbing his apron and putting it on. He entered the kitchen to wash his hands and do inventory, passing Yuki on the way. “Oh! Try this! It’s the new recipe for today.” Yuki held out a small piece of macaron he’d cut off. Mick noted the pretty, pastel lavender tone and smiled. Soft and pretty. It reminded him of you. He took the macaron from Yuki and popped it into his mouth, closing his eyes as the flavours danced across his tongue. Layers of lavender and honey combined with the sweet sugar. It was perfect. He nodded at Yuki approvingly, “Y/N will love it!” He froze as he realised he’s said that out loud. Yuki smirked, “Oh? She will?” Mick nodded sheepishly. He’d noticed your preference for trying Pierre and Yuki’s new flavours and you always leaned towards the aesthetic ones, not that the other choices weren’t aesthetic, he didn’t want to diminish Pierre’s work it’s just that- oh who was he kidding? His internal monologue was even annoying himself. The morning went by quickly as Mick found himself making drinks and serving the beachgoers of the day. Weekdays in the summer was mainly regulars; elderly couples out for a stroll, new mums with their babies as they met for a chat, dog walkers who wanted a break from playing fetch. By 11:00 am the cafe was quiet and so Mick found himself back in the kitchen, helping where he could and munching on the delicious treats that Yuki was cooking up to refill the display for the afternoon. Mick loved his job. But when the little bell above the door tinkled at 12:00 pm precisely on a Wednesday afternoon, he loved it a lot more. He smiled as he heard your voice greeting your best friends. He guessed he could call them his friends too. He didn’t notice the other boys in the kitchen staring at him as he smiled. He didn’t catch their smirks at each other. He heard your shriek and panicked, were you okay? Then he heard the laugh of Pierre and breathed a sigh of relief. The others noticed all this and began hatching a plot.

Mick focused his attention back on the ingredients in front of him as he mixed up another batch of cookie dough for Yuki. He thought you’d really like these cookies, they were sweet and the colour was cute. He was pulled from his daydreaming about you by Pierre shouting his name, “Hey, Mick! Customer!” Mick grumbled under his breath about how incompetent Pierre was sometimes. Why did he need him to go out and serve the customer? He was in the middle of washing his hands when he heard Pierre speak again, “It’s Y/N.” This time Mick froze. Pierre wanted him to serve you. Mick looked at Yuki and cued for him to go out and serve you, Yuki argued back slightly, a silent battle of glares with some hand gestures thrown in, before he rolled his eyes jokingly and poked his head out of the kitchen. Mick heard your sweet voice as you greeted Yuki and he bit his lip nervously. He would have loved to have served you but he always got so damn nervous.

Suddenly Yuki was back in the room with him. Mick looked at him, confused. Yuki smiled innocently before nodding at Esteban and Lando, “Get him.” Mick hissed out a smart retort at Yuki as Lando and Esteban all but shoved him towards the door. He tried to dig his heels in but to no avail. He was thrown out of the room, feeling very annoyed and slightly dishevelled. All that faded away however when he caught sight of you stood next to Pierre. A soft smile painted across your lips, eyes wide in childlike excitement as you looked at the desserts display. Mick took in your pretty yellow dress with the puffy, he thought they were called ‘bell’, sleeves. He noticed how your small crossbody bag matched the white clips you had in your hair and the white sneakers you wore on your feet. He thought you looked like literal sunshine in your outfit. His eyes flew up to look at your face and he fiddled with the tie of his apron and his cap, a nervous habit, as he realised you were staring at him too, nervously biting your bottom lip. He couldn’t look at you anymore without blushing, his eyes falling to the counter in front of him.

Damn. Why couldn’t he be more confident in front of you? ------------------

“Pierre this is so good!” You practically moaned out, Pierre laughing and Daniel tutting as you spoke with a few crumbs clinging to your bottom lip, “Geez, baby, do I have to do everything for you?” Daniel joked as his thumb swiped across your bottom lip, licking the excess off of his thumb. You broke into a childish grin at his parental actions, “I’d be lost without you Danny!” You exclaimed, making him smile. You turned back to Pierre, “Are you taking a break from the cafe this summer Pierre?” He nodded his head, “Yuki is taking over for a week so I can go away with my family.” He smiled fondly, clearly excited at the prospect. “Then it’s back to the grind!” You whined, “At least you have a job and you have money…” Pierre cackled at this as you slumped forward in your chair, your forehead smacking the table. “Ow!” You pouted as Charles fussed over you, gently rubbing the sore spot on your head before kissing it better, making you giggle “Are you still looking for a job?” Carlos turned to you. You nodded your head and sighed, “There’s just nothing out there…” Pierre gave you a sorry smile, “You know I’d ask you to work here but I already have the guys and can’t afford to employ anyone else…” You nodded, leaning across the table to squeeze his hand, “I know! It’s okay!” Charles suddenly clapped his hands from where he sat next to you, “What about lifeguarding for the summer?” The whole table turned to stare at him with deadpanned expressions as you winced. He shrugged, “It was just a suggestion…” Daniel laughed, “What about working somewhere in town? A clothing store or even the grocery store?” You shook your head, “None of them are hiring right now or the places have all been filled.” Daniel clicked his tongue as he thought again. “What about the florist? They’re hiring right now.” Carlos suggested. You shook your head, eyes wide, “Ahhhh you didn’t tell him yet?” Charles asked, you shook your head and he continued, “Y/N had an interview and trial shift at the florist but turns out she’s allergic to one of the plants, poor baby… While you and Lando were on holiday, Daniel and I had to take care of our petit ange.” Charlos explained as Daniel stroked your head sympathetically. “It was funny but poor baby really suffered didn’t you…” Daniel cooed as you pouted, nodding. Charles leant towards Carlos, “I’ll show you the photos later, her cheeks swelled up like a chipmunk.” You growled as they burst into laughter. Pierre hummed thoughtfully before exclaiming, “Ah! Y/N, you like kids right?” You gasped as you nodded, “They’re really cute! I wouldn’t be a teaching major if I didn’t…” Pierre laughed, “Well I have twin cousins who are both 7. They need babysitting the summer. I can pass your details on to my Aunt?” Your eyes widened as you got up from the table racing over to Pierre, throwing your arms around him, “Yes, yes yes! Would you do that for me, Pierre? Thank you so much!” He laughed at your enthusiasm, patting the arm hugging his front,

“Of course! You’ve babysat and done childcare before right?” You nodded, “Then she’ll just need a reference from one of them and probably want to ask you a few questions. It would be an all-day gig. She has to work extra hours this summer.” You nodded in understanding and clapped your hands excitedly as you sat down. This would be so fun! ---------------------

It had been a week since you’d started looking after Théo and Fleur. They had to be the cutest kids you had ever seen. Physically they were so alike in their features yet their personalities couldn’t have been more different. Fleur was so outgoing and energetic, she was loud and often you found yourself having to gently remind her to use her inside voice. She was the more confident of the two but she was extremely socially aware and would always hold her brother’s hand when she sensed him getting nervous or unsure. Unlike Fleur, Théo was shyer. Whereas Fleur preferred playing games and playing outside, Théo was happy to sit quietly and read his books. He had taken to you very quickly and would often come and climb into your lap to cuddle whenever he was tired or just craved affection.

You’d learned quickly that both of the twins loved the beach and so you spent most of your days going on walks to the beach, playing on the beach and swimming in the sea. You were convinced that these children were actual angels. You’d never had to tell them off or reprimand them, their manners were impeccable and they were always asking if they could help you with chores.

It had been a week and a few days since your first day and today was a Wednesday. You didn’t want to miss out on your time with the guys so you decided to take the twins to the cafe for lunch and leave after that. You headed to the beach early after plastering both the kids in suncream, their little matching sun hats just too cute. You played in the sea and the sand all morning before Fleur eventually plopped down under the umbrella next to you. “Y/N, I’m hungry…” She whined a little, you checked the time as Théo waddled over to join his sister. “Well, my little chicks it is time for lunch! Would you like to go to get some food?” They both nodded enthusiastically as you helped them pack up their things in their backpacks before you returned the umbrella you’d hired for the morning. Théo and Fleur each took hold of one of your hands before the three of you made your way to the top of the beach and crossed the road, heading to ‘The Shoreline’. Fleur cheered as she noticed where you were going, making you laugh. Théo looked up at you, big brown eyes blinking slowly, “Pierre works here!” You nodded, “That’s right bubba!” You squeeze his hand as you reached the door, pushing it open and allowing the kids to step inside. “Pierre!” Fleur shouted as soon as she was inside, you gently placed a hand on her shoulder, “Inside voices now okay Fleur?” She nodded before skipping towards the kitchen door, Pierre poked his head around the doorframe, “I thought I heard you little rascals!” Fleur giggled before running back to Théo and grabbing his hand, the two of them heading towards Pierre for a hug and, you suspected, probably an extra cookie or cupcake too.

You found your best friends at your usual table and placed your things down, “Hey!” Daniel greeted you, “Did you bring the twins?” You nodded, “I hope that’s okay?” Charles smiled brightly, “Of course! They’re so cute!” You heard footsteps behind you and you turned to see the twins giggling with what looked like chocolate frosting smeared at the corners of their mouths. You gave Pierre a look as he shrugged before whistling innocently, heading to the counter. You helped the twins take off their backpacks, “Hey Y/N, Mick is working today,” Carlos said nonchalantly as he scrolled through social media on his phone. You gaped a little, “Why does everyone keep feeling the need to tell me?” “Who’s Mick?” Asked Fleur grabbing your hand and swinging it back and fore, “Y/N’s boyfriend!” Charles whisper shouted, making Fleur’s eyes widen almost comically as she gasped and covered her mouth with her hands, Théo giggling. “Y/N’s boyfriend?” Charles nodded seriously, you resisted the urge to smack his arm as you crouched down next to Fleur and Théo,

“No, Mick isn’t my boyfriend, he’s just my friend.” Théo nodded as Fleur narrowed her eyes, “Your friend that you looooove!” Charles sang jokingly, you frowned at him before shaking your head at Fleur, “Hmm, okay…” You poked her side to tickle her, making her squeal, “Come on then my babies, let’s go and order some lunch!” You headed to the counter to order lunch for yourself and them.

In the business of your morning, you hadn’t even thought about Mick until the boys mentioned him… You suddenly found yourself brushing down your denim shorts as you straightened out Daniel’s white, linen button-up shirt you’d stolen a while back to use as a cover-up over the top of your lavender cami that you’d tucked in. You tucked a stray piece of hair behind your ear and adjusted your sunglasses on top of your head. Pierre caught your fussing and smirked knowingly, “What?” You huffed. He just winked before heading into the kitchen, “Mick! Customer!” Mick traipsed out of the kitchen before he spotted you, you smiled shyly as you stood with a hand on each of the twin's backs. “Hi!” Mick smiled softly at them and you felt your heart melt into a little puddle of goo. No one should be allowed to look that soft and cute, it wasn’t fair. He wasn’t wearing a sweater today, it seemed he’d given in to the heat too, instead he was wearing a light brown oversized t-shirt, a different coloured wash pair of jeans but still his trusty converse. He fiddled with his apron tie and adjusted the cap sitting on his head, readjusting it before he looked at you, “What can I get you?” You looked down at the twins, “Well, what would you like?” “Orange juice please!” They chimed out at the same time before giggling with each other, you smiled at them fondly, “Can we get a ham sandwich and cheese sandwich as well, please? They’ll share.” Mick nodded noting down the order, “And for you?” You hummed thoughtfully. “I’ll take whatever the special sandwich is today please, and an iced ma-“ “Matcha latte?” He said before blushing heavily, you doing the same, nodding your head bashfully. Fleur looked between the two of you before tapping Théo and whispering loudly, “Look! They’re both blushing!” Your head snapped down to look at Fleur as one hand flew up to your cheeks. Mick fumbled with the cash register as he tried to swiftly move on. You snuck a look at him as you pretended to fuss over the twins. He really was cute when he blushed… --------------------

The next day you found yourself back at the cafe with the twins. You’d been sat at home, the day cloudy and slightly rainy. The twins had spent the morning colouring and happily playing with their toys but they’d begged you to take them back to the cafe in the afternoon with Fleur claiming she ‘needed more cake!’. You laughed at her dramatic before agreeing to take them. They cheered and munched their lunch while you cleared up a little. Once they’d eaten their lunch and all the dishes were washed up the three of you pulled on your coats, the twins deciding to wear their matching bright yellow rain boots. The three of you walked to the cafe, the twins humming along to their favourite songs, swinging your arms as they held your hands and jumping in puddles.

When you reached the cafe, it was slightly busier, people looking for shelter from the light rain and looking for a fun trip on a day out. You found a table near the counter and you all peeled your coats off before you led the kids towards the orderly queue that had formed. You picked Théo up so he could see the desserts more clearly as you stood in line. “What would you like bubba?” You rubbed Théo’s back as he deliberated over what he wanted to eat. “Cupcake please.” He said softly, pointing to one of the kid’s pirate-themed cupcakes in the corner of the display, “Of course! What about you Fleur?” You looked down as Fleur pursed her lips, “I think I’d like the same please!” You giggled at her formal way of speaking before stepping up to the counter and immediately becoming breathless, “Mick! Uhhh… Hi!” He looked up from the cash register and gave you a soft smile, waving at Théo who was now resting his head in the crook of your neck, seemingly feeling shy around Mick, you could relate… “Hi Y/N. What can I get for you today?” You placed the kid's orders, adding on a juice for each of them before you quickly scanned your eyes over the case wanting to choose a dessert for yourself. “I’ll take a slice of the lemon, poppyseed and thyme cake please and an-“ “Iced matcha latte?” Mick cut in before blushing when he realised what he’d done. You giggled, “Yes please.” He looked up, holding your gaze for a second before the two of you were broken out of your trance by a small voice, “I think Mr Charles was right yesterday! Y/N loves Mick!” Fleur giggled pointing at your blushing faces. You mouth gaped open as you looked down at Fleur with a shocked facial expression, “Fleur!” She looked at you, “I think you do! You and Mr Mick are blushing again!” She giggled, Théo giggled as he lifted his head from your neck, wriggling as you put him down next to his sister. She took his hand and they ran back to your table giggling the whole time. By the time you’d turned back to the counter, Mick had already started making your drink. Your eyes followed him, nervously fidgeting with your fingers in front of you, he wouldn’t look at you. Damn. He must feel so awkward. “I’m sorry about Fleur… Charles was filling her head with ideas and you know what kids are like,” you laughed awkwardly as he nodded, “well then, I’m gonna, I’m gonna go… Drink this… drink!” You shook your head as you noticed the twins sat pointing and giggling at you and Mick. Perhaps they were not perfect little angels after all.

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

You didn’t visit the cafe for the rest of the week. Théo got sick and as a result of her refusal to leave her brother’s side, Fleur then got sick straight after. You’d spent your days wrapped up in blankets and cuddled on the sofa. By Tuesday the kids were much better and as they sat eating their afternoon snack, Fleur spoke up, “Y/N, can we go to see Pierre tomorrow?” Théo gasped and his eyes lit up at the mention of Pierre’s name. “If you guys are good and eat all of your vegetables at dinner…” You bribed. “Pinky promise!” Fleur’s hand shot out as she held out her pinky, Théo extended his and somehow the three of you managed a pinky promise. “Tomorrow we’ll go to the cafe for lunch.” You promised, nodding your head, the twins cheering.

You were certainly not expecting them to start scheming.

“Hello, my little babies!” Cooed Pierre as he greeted you at the door the next day. “What would you like for lunch?” He took each of their hands and together the three of them skipped over to the counter, no doubt to smuggle more cupcakes. You rolled your eyes and smiled, heading towards the table were your friends sat. “Y/N!” Cheered Charles, “We missed you!” He pouted as you sat down next to him, wrapping himself around your arm and snuggling his face into your neck. “Charles that tickles!” You gave up trying to push him off, accepting your fate as you pulled your phone out of your pocket, waiting for the twins to come back so you could find out what they wanted to order.

You heard the pattering of children’s feet and stifled giggles, making you look up. Fleur and Théo stood there with a smirking Pierre behind them, “What have you three been up too?” You raised an eyebrow, Pierre shrugged, “Nothing!” You shook your head, “Somehow I don’t really believe you. Right, come on! Let’s go order!” You stood up, “I already put the twins' order in,” Pierre informed you, “It better not just be an order of cupcakes!” You tickled Théo tummy as you went past making him giggle and run and duck behind Carlos for cover. Fleur followed her brother and sat opposite him, clambering into the armchair you’d been sat in, Charles helping her up. “Well then, I’ll go order for myself.” You looked at Pierre who nodded to let you know he’d watch the twins. Lando was at the counter when you got there, smiling at you in the same way Pierre had been. You looked at him suspiciously, “What are you up to?” He shook his head before bursting into giggles and running into the kitchen. “Lando?!” You huffed, you just wanted a drink! There was a soft cough making you look up, “Mick! Hi!” He nodded and smiled gently, “Hey Y/N, the usual?” You nodded, willing your face not to heat up at the fact he’d remembered. He nodded in response, taking the payment and turning to start making your drink. He was interrupted by Esteban poking his head out of the storeroom, “Hey Mick, can you come and look at this please?” Mick looked at you apologetically, pushing himself up straight from leaning on the counter before following a retreating Esteban. You stood by the counter for a while before Pierre came up to you, “Hey Y/N, did I tell you I’d painted the storeroom a different colour? Come look!” Before you could argue he’d grabbed your hand and was dragging you towards the storeroom. When you got there he stood back, allowing you to open the door, the light was off and you stepped in, hand fumbling around for the light switch. “Pierre, what exactly are you up to-“ You shrieked as you were suddenly pushed into the storeroom, the door clanging shut behind you.

--------------------- When they’d arrived at the cafe, Fleur and Théo were more than happy to go off with Pierre, in fact, Fleur smirked to herself, her plan was going perfectly. As they stood at the counter, smuggling cupcakes with Pierre, she voiced her thoughts quietly, aware that Mick was busy behind the counter “Pierre, I think we should make Y/N tell Mr Mick she loves him!” She whispered, Théo nodding in agreement. Pierre stared at them, surprised that his 7-year-old cousins had picked up on the fact you and Mick liked each other. ‘Then again’, he thought ‘they’re not exactly subtle… Every man and his dog would be able to see it from a five-mile radius’. “I like the way you think mon petit papillon…” He answered, already scheming in his head. He signalled for the twins to be quiet before he beckoned them into the kitchen. “Hi!” Lando cooed as he caught sight of the twins, immediately swooping down to throw Théo in the air making him scream with laughter. Esteban smiled as Fleur skipped over, hugging his leg tightly, “Este, we’re going to make Y/N and Mick fall in love!” Fleur said dreamily, Esteban let out a laugh, picking her up, “Is that right?” Yuki joined their conversation, “Did you say something about Y/N and Mick?” Pierre huddled them all together, “We know they’re never going to say anything to each other themselves, they need a little… push…” The rest of the boys hummed in agreement. “How are we going to do it?” Esteban asked, making everyone sigh as they realised they had no ideas. “Ooh!” Lando spoke up, “What about trapping them in the storeroom together? It only unlocks from the outside!” Yuki rubbed his hands together, grinning cheekily, “I like the way you think my friend!” Pierre nodded, “Perfect! Now how do we convince them?” Esteban volunteered to take on the role of being the one to bribe Mick to the storeroom. The boys all nodded in agreement before Fleur threw her hand into the middle of the circle from her spot in Esteban’s arms, “Everyone in!” The boys all laughed at her cute enthusiasm, before they all placed their hands in too, Lando picking up Théo so he wouldn’t be left out. They broke the huddle before Pierre and the twins left the kitchen, heading back out to Y/N. “What have you three been up too?” Pierre shrugged as he tried to play it off, “Nothing!” He should have known she’d be suspicious. “Somehow I don’t really believe you. Right, come on! Let’s go order!” “I already put the twins' order in,” Pierre said, glad he already had, “It better not just be an order of cupcakes!” Pierre breathed a sigh of relief as you started walking away, “Well then, I’ll go order for myself.” Pierre nodded at you, knowing he had a limited time to inform the others of the plan.

As soon as you were out of earshot, Pierre filled the others in, “Do you think it will work?” Carlos asked, raising an eyebrow as Charles nodded, booping Fleur’s nose with a grin “Of course! It will work 100%.” Fleur giggled, “You should go now Pierre!” “I’ll watch the twins?” Daniel offered, Pierre gave him a thumbs up before swiftly heading to the counter where you now stood, waiting for Mick to return. Pierre smiled to himself, it seemed Esteban was successful. Now he just needed a believable excuse to tell you. He thought for a moment. Perfect. “Hey Y/N, did I tell you I’d painted the storeroom a different colour? Come look!” He grabbed your wrist, not giving you a chance to argue as he quickly made his way to the storeroom. “Pierre, what exactly are you up to-“ He gently pushed you in before making sure the door was shut, turning to wink at everyone. Fleur cheering from her chair, making all the boys laugh. -------------------

You stood there in the store cupboard in shock for a moment before you heard a rustling noise next to you and gasped, “Hello?” Mick said quietly “Mick?” “Y/N?” You nodded, then facepalmed realising he couldn’t see you. Suddenly your breathing hitched as you felt Mick close to you. You felt his warm breath fan your cheek as he leant across you, the smell of warm cookies and sweet caramel latte filling your nose. You smiled. You were suddenly aware of how close he was as you felt his body heat press against you, one hand falling onto your waist to steady himself. He found the light switch and flicked it on, the two of you squinting at the sudden brightness. You both froze as you noticed your position. You were leaning against a low cabinet, Mick leaning over you, your eyes dropped to the hand on your waist, cheeks heating up. He looked even more shocked than you. The two of you suddenly looked at each other. He was so close that you could see every detail of his face. He was beautiful. If you tilted your head up a little your lips would have brushed his. His eyes dropped to your lips before he seemed to come to his senses, stepping back from you, hands immediately coming in front of him as he nervously played with the ends of the sleeves of his pale blue sweater. You coughed lightly as you felt a new kind of tension begin to fall over the storeroom. You stood up straight, hand running through your hair as you tried to brush off the feelings that having Mick so close to you had brought up. He opened his mouth as if he was going to say something before suddenly the storeroom door opened and all your friends stood there, as well as the twins, enthusiastically craning their necks to see, faces dropping when they realised they’d not caught the two of you being all lovey-dovey. Plan failed. Pierre looked at you with faux innocence, “I’m so sorry Y/N, I have no clue how that happened!” You shook your head at him, Fleur huffed before turning to Charles accusingly, “You said that this would work Mr Charles!” Your eyes widened, a frown of annoyance painting itself across your face. “Charles Leclerc, you. are. dead.” He gulped as you stalked towards the storeroom door, Daniel stepped in front of you, grabbing your arms, “Hey, it was just a joke okay?” You growled as you glared at Charles. “Not in front of the kids…” Daniel pulled your head to his chest, rubbing your back in a soothing manner. You didn’t notice Mick quietly slipping away, slightly hurt. You seemed very upset at being stuck in there with him… Maybe you didn’t like him back after all. --------------------

You honestly didn’t think there’d be any more scheming after that. Ha! How wrong you were. You entered the cafe the following Wednesday, Fleur and Théo excited for cake and to see the boys. You loved that they were getting on so well with them all. You watched the twins run off with Esteban and Lando, sighing as you sat down. Daniel looking at you in concern,

“You alright there cutie?” You sighed dramatically, plopping your face onto your hand as you propped yourself up on the table in front of you. “No…” Carlos straightened up at this, “Why? What’s wrong?” You shook your head. It was embarrassing. Charles looked at you, “Come on Y/N, you tell us everything!” You contemplated for a moment before grumbling, “Fine! I was just hoping that this summer I, I might…” You trailed off, “Might what?” Daniel, Carlos and Charles all sat forward on the edge of their seats, “Might go on a few dates and find a boyfriend!” You whined, staring at Mick behind the counter longingly. The couple of occasions you’d popped in since the storeroom incident he hasn’t spoken to you. In fact, he’d even avoided you, going back into the kitchen and sending Yuki or Lando out to take your order. Your drink was always good, but it never tasted the same.

Charles held back a snort as he saw where you were looking. He turned to Carlos who smirked. It seemed they were thinking the same thing. “I have a friend I could set you up on a blind date with?” Charles offered, you looked at him. “Really?” Daniel seeming to catch on, nodded, “I think that’s a great idea!” You sighed, “Just one date wouldn’t hurt…” Carlos choked on a laugh as he took a sip of his coffee, sending a quick text to the other boys ‘stay behind tonight’. Oh, if only you knew…

Later that afternoon, you had gone, having to drop the twins off back home. The cafe was closed for the day and Mick bid the rest of them farewell as he left. Pierre dropped into the seat next to Charles as he groaned, massaging his shoulder, “What’s up with the text?” Daniel smiled at them, “We’re going to set Y/N and Mick up on a blind date!” Yuki clapped his hands enthusiastically as Lando let out a laugh. “Is that a good idea?” Esteban winced, remembering how angry you’d been the previous week. “Trust me, it is!” Charles smirked, “We’ve already convinced Y/N and she’s in!” Esteban's eyes sparkled mischievously, “Then I’m in!” Pierre nodded, “Who’s gonna talk to Mick?” Esteban raised his hand, “I think I could convince him.” The rest of the table nodded. Plan in action -------------------

“Mick!” Esteban cooed as he approached the blue-eyed male. Mick turned to him, “What do you want?” Esteban feigned shock as he looked at him, “Me? Want something?” Mick gave him a deadpan look as he pouted, “Okay, fine! Although it’s for your own benefit.” Mick nodded for him to continue as he turned back to the cake he was frosting, “Go on a blind date? I have a frien-“ “No Esteban…” Mick shook his head as he looked through the kitchen door to where you sat with your friends. He felt his heart speed up as you let out a cute giggle. Esteban sighed as he followed his friend’s gaze,

“Maybe this blind date will be just what you need?” He suggested, Mick turned to him before looking back through the door, slowly nodding as he turned to his friend once more, “You might be right.” The frenchman smiled at him before leaving the kitchen, turning to Pierre who was behind the counter and fist-pumping victoriously. Leaning his body to wink at Charles who nodded subtly before turning back to you.

None of the boys would tell you who they had set you up with. They wouldn’t tell you anything about him. Just that he was very sweet and totally your type. The day of your blind date, you sat on your bed with Daniel and Carlos, Charles playing with Fleur and Théo downstairs. You groaned as you dramatically threw yourself backwards onto your bed. “What am I supposed to wear?” “Just wear what you normally would!” Daniel patted your head as your crawled and flopped your head down onto his thigh. “What if he doesn’t like that?” Carlos snickered, “I don’t think there’s any worry of that…” “Hmm?” You lazily lifted your head. “Nothing! Just that you dress so nicely that it won’t be a problem amor.” Carlos said cheerily. You stood up from our bed and ventured over to your wardrobe pulling out a sweet white summer dress with cap sleeves, the skirt made of a pretty flowy material with small, different coloured, embroidered flowers cascading down from the waist where it was cinched in, the skirt eventually falling just above your calves. “Ooooooh that’s pretty!” Daniel said, nodding approvingly. Carlos hummed an agreement before seemingly remembering, “Oh, by the way, you have half an hour.” “Half an hour?!” You cried, ‘I haven’t even done my hair or makeup yet!” Charles burst into your bedroom with Fleur and Théo in tow. “Never fear! For your personal stylist is here!” He said, wiggling his eyebrow, making you laugh despite your stress. Fleur and Théo jumped onto your bed, Daniel immediately playing with them, pretending to be some sort of monster or dragon as he tickled them. “Chop chop!” Charles clapped at you, hurting you into your bathroom, “Get dressed and then I’ll fix you up!” How you managed to get ready in such a short amount of time blew your mind. Charles, for some reason and you had no clue how or why, was very talented at doing your hair. The way he’d done it complimented your outfit perfectly. You kept your makeup light and simple. You put on some of your favourite jewellery pieces and exited your bathroom to see Fleur and Théo staring at you with wide eyes, “You look like a princess!” Fleur said, clasping her hands together under her chin. You giggled, running a hand through her hair and pressing a kiss to her forehead, “Thanks bubba!” You turned to Carlos and Daniel, inhaling deeply through your nose, “Does it look okay?” “You look beautiful,” “You look perfect.” Daniel offered you a pale blue short cardigan to go over the top as Carlos held out a sweet, white crossbody bag. You gratefully accepted both items before you slipped your feet into some white flats and checked your phone. “Now, you’ll know it’s him because he’s wearing a pale blue shirt under an oversized brown sweater and jeans.” You nodded, “also he’ll be wearing a cap.” You nodded once more, “Now go my little cherub!” Charles said landing a wet kiss to your cheek with a loud smack, making you groan and strain to pull away. He laughed as he let you go, “Be careful ad have fun!” Carlos said, winking, “We’ll watch the twins and make sure they have tons of fun!” Daniel wheezed out as Théo jumped on him once more.

You waved your goodbyes before exiting your home and heading to the beach, looking at the directions Charles had texted you, ‘Meet him outside the cafe! Do you remember what he’s wearing?’, you rolled your eyes before replying, ‘Yes I remember what he’s wearing, you melon, I don’t have a goldfish brain…’ You plugged your headphones in as you began the short walk to the cafe. You couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed. You’d really hoped you would have plucked up the courage to ask Mick on a date this summer. You wondered about the mystery guy as you walked along. How tall was he? Would he be as tall as Mick? What colour is his hair? Are his eyes as pretty as Mick’s? What does he like to do? Does he like music like Mick? Does he have a job? Was he a barista like Mick? You caught yourself as you stopped at a crossing. You needed to get Mick out of your head! You crossed the street, walking around the corner and smiling as the cafe came into view. You looked around for a guy that matched the description Charles gave you but there was no one. You stood outside the cafe and decided to wait for a little while. ------------------- Mick checked his appearance once more in the cafe bathroom mirror, he exhaled somewhat shakily as he pushed his hair back, picking his cap on to place it on top of his head. Maybe he should go without them? He fiddled with the cap before deciding to put it back down on the counter. There. Much better. He checked himself over one last time before he left the bathroom, passing Yuki and Lando in the kitchen. They both waved at him as he passed, giving each other knowing smiles. Pierre nodded at him from behind the counter and Esteban wished him luck as he cleared tables. Mick stopped by the door as he checked his phone once more for the text from Esteban with the description of the girl. ‘White dress, white shoes, blue cardigan and white bag.’ Mick nodded to himself, knowing that the girl was waiting outside the door. As soon as he stepped out, the boys inside the cafe rushed to press themselves against the window.

You heard the bell of the cafe door tinkle and you turned to see… Mick? Your eyes glanced over his frame. Jeans, pale blue shirt and oversized brown sweater… You inhaled as you came to the realisation that the boys had set you up. Mick stared at you and took in your appearance, noting that it matched the description of the- oh… Oh! He smiled to himself as he realised. You approached him slowly. “Hey.” “Hi.” He paused for a second before clearing this throat. “So you’re my date?” You nodded softly, “Yeah I guess so… Is that okay?” “YES! I mean… Y-yeah that’s okay.” You giggled softly making Mick’s heart stop, you were too darn sweet for him. “I booked us a table at ‘The Seafront’ for dinner?” He seemed so unsure, it was adorable. “That sounds lovely.” You reassured him, he seemed to sigh with relief, “Shall we go?” The two of you fell in step with each other as you walked. It was quiet for a while. “I’m so sorry about what happened the other week…” He trailed off, cautious about bringing it up. You looked at him as the two of you slowed your pace, “No! Please! Don’t apologise, it was my fault…” “Actually it was Charles’ fault…” He joked, you laughed at that, he wasn’t wrong. “But either way, I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.” “Uncomfortable? Why would you have made me uncomfortable?” He sighed like he was thinking carefully about how to answer, “Once the door was opened you seemed… upset… that you’d been stuck in there with me…” He trailed off, voice quietening. You bit your lip softly, you hadn’t thought about how your reaction must have looked to Mick. “Oh no no no… I’m so sorry Mick… In all honesty, I wasn’t upset about that. I was upset that they may have made you uncomfortable.” You explained, he looked up at you quickly, “I really wasn’t mad about being locked in there with you at all.” You said shyly, both of you turning shy immediately.

You walked in silence for a little longer, this time the silence being of the comfortable kind. The type that says how easy it is to be with the other person.

You took in the views of the seaside as you walked together, you noticed he was walking a little closer to you now, making you smile. You allowed the hand closest to him to drop to your side, gently brushing his. He gasped quietly before you did it again. Not wanting to push you stopped. Soon enough you felt Mick brush his hand against yours, except this time he hooked his pinky finger around yours, linking them together in the sweetest most innocent of ways. You sighed happily as you looked at your joined hands. You eventually made it to the restaurant, making small talk as you went, Mick never letting go of your hand. The waiter showed you to your table, Mick pulling out your chair for you before taking his own seat opposite you. The table was sat out on the veranda overlooking the beach and you smiled as you breathed in the fresh sea air. Mick smiled as he caught sight of your smile. You thanked the waiter as he dropped off two menus.

The whole meal was better than you ever could have expected. You and Mick got along so well. The conversation never stopped flowing, which did surprise you slightly. You chatted as you ate, excited to be learning so many new things about each other. When the check came, Mick quickly snatched it up making you frown,

“I’ll get this, you get the ice cream on the next date.” You stopped suddenly before smiling at him teasingly, “Who said there’ll be a next one?” Mick froze as he registered what he said, “I didn’t mean, I just meant that, if you’d like to I-I-I would like to take you on another date-“ His rambling was cut off by you leaning across the table and pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. “I’d love to go on another date with you Mick.” He blushed heavily as he called the waiter over.

You left the restaurant happily. You were full, from the good meal, the good company and the good conversation. “Would you like to take a walk on the beach?” Mick asked you, face bathed in a warm golden glow from the setting sun. You nodded, “I would very much like that.” Rather boldly, he linked your pinkies together again, making you squeal internally. You made your way down to the sand together, you swinging your hands as you hummed happily, making Mick laugh. You reached the sand, looked around and noticing you were the only ones of the beach, you immediately let go of Mick’s hand, leaning down to slip your shoes off. He did the same and you grinned at him before you took off, running across the sand. Mick seemed shocked for a second before he took off after you, the two of you running across the sand and chasing each other like kids. Eventually he caught up to you, tapping you on the shoulder as he passed. You laughed as you slowed down to a stop, catching your breath as you dropped your shoes on the sand and sitting down next to them. Mick circled back round to sit next to you, dropping his shoes in the sand too. He sat next to you, close enough that your knees touched as you both sat cross legged. You laughed breathlessly as you dropped your head back, enjoying the cool breeze of the evening. Mick stared at you for a second, completely entranced by the way the wind gently ruffled your hair, making you smile. You opened your eyes and turned to Mick suddenly, holding out your hand, he took your hand in his, loving how soft and warm your hand felt. “Confession time,” you said staring at your hands, “I have a strange ABBA addiction and I’m seriously convinced I was born in the wrong era!” He laughed at your statement, “Okay, I like hiking a lot and sometimes do it for charity…” The tips of his ears glowed red in the evening light, “Really?” He nodded bashfully, “That’s so cool!” You thought for a moment, “Oooh! Whenever I use my coloured pens for studying I have to keep them in colour order at all times.” Mick gasped mockingly, “You mean there are people out there that don’t do that?” You giggled, he continued, “My turn? Hmmm… I actually hate coffee. I only carried on working in the cafe to see you.” He looked down at your hands, unable to look you in the eye. “Really?” You said softly. He nodded shyly, still not looking at you. You gently reached your free hand up to his face and held his face in your hand, making him look up at you, “I’m so glad you did…” You leant in slowly, giving him time to back away. He didn’t. He moved in to meet you, lips gently brushing over yours before he pressed them to yours with more intent. You sighed contentedly as the two of you shifted slightly, allowing you to wrap your arms around his neck and one of his hands came to rest on the side of your face, the other gently placing itself on your waist. You felt him smile into the kiss, making you do the same. The two of you pulled away with hushed giggled and sweet smiles.

You were suddenly aware that you heard cheering behind you. You turned to see all of your friends and Fleur and Théo, even though it was long past their bedtime. You blushed and hid your face in Mick’s shoulder as he shooed them away. They booed him jokingly before you felt you phone vibrating. Pierre. “Hey there lovebirds! We’re all heading back to the cafe if you want to join us for free drinks and cake to celebrate you guys finally admitting your feelings!” He hung up the call and you heard their noisy babble fade as they walked away. You pulled away from Mick’s shoulder to look at him. “I don’t mind?” He gazed at you sweetly before standing up, offering his hand out to you to help you up “Would you like your usual?” You giggled, taking his hand, “That would be lovely.” The two of you made your way back to the cafe. “Mick, are you sure you were the right person?” “What do you mean?” “Well, Charles told me the guy would be wearing a cap…” “I- Really, Y/N…?” “I’m just checking!” “Just for that, I’m going to make you an espresso, triple shot.” “You wouldn’t!” “Try me!”

#mimi.writes #mick schumacher x reader #f1 x reader #f1 fic #f1 fluff #mick schumacher #f1 #f1 au #mick schumacher au #mick schumacher fluff #mick schumacher x you #mick schumacher imagine

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soulofapatrick · 1 year

Text

The Taste of Coffee - Tommy Miller x Reader

Summary: Joel introduces you to his brother Tommy and everything definitely moves quicker than you could imagine but in all the right ways

Words: 2.6k

Warnings: None

Y/N’s POV

The spring breeze drags her fingers through my hair as soon as I step outside, ruffling my jackets and making me smile a little. I arrived in Jackson a week ago and it’s been a little overwhelming how friendly and giving people are despite the outbreak, many acting as if it isn’t thing has they’re protected by the walls around Jackson and the daily patrols. The sun is setting, casting a warm orange glow over the small town as I begin wandering through it, hands deep in my pockets and just taking in everything. There are still a few people bustling about, shopkeepers closing their shops and I know the last patrol of the night are going to be arriving home so I decide that I’ll go watch for them.

I’m set to be put on patrols at some point this week so I might as well learn what I can in the meantime. It’s weird how quickly people can find routine as everyone seems to move in a rhythm the town runs on, creating a sense of calm and security. As I approach the gates I can see the last patrol returning for the night, trotting through the gates and coming to a stop in different places. There’s six of them and I only know Joel. He’s sliding off his horse, I think he told me the horse is called Callus and the two don’t get along very well as I can see when Callus aims a deft kick towards Joel. It has me sniggering behind my hand and catches Joel’s attention, his face lighting up as he sees me.

“Hey Y/N, come here.” He’s waving me over but I hesitate, “Come on, I want to introduce you to someone.” He’s widening his eyes a little and pulling a ‘please’ face with those puppy dog eyes that has me sighs softly and trudging towards him and the man he’s with. I’m pretty sure it’s Joel’s younger brother, Tommy.

I met Joel almost twenty four hours after arriving in Jackson, waking to someone knocking on the door. Answering it I found Joel standing there awkwardly, holding up a bag of coffee and I think I would have fallen in love with him right then and there if he didn’t give off major dad vibes. He introduced himself and told me his brother - Tommy - was forcing him to try and make at least friend and I was new so we were in very similar boats. He told me he loved coffee and thought it was a great starting point which I agreed, practically living on coffee when I could.

That was a week ago and now I’m stopping next to Joel and looking at Tommy as Joel introduces us, “Y/N, meet Tommy. Tommy, this is Y/N. She’s… she’s my friend.” Joel’s rubbing the back of his neck embarrassedly as he’s having to relearn some basic social skills after living in the QZ for years, it’s understandable.

I barely notice Joel’s embarrassment though as I can’t stop staring at Tommy. I want to draw my eyes away from him but I can’t. My breath hitches in my throat at the sight of Joel’s little brother. He’s even more attractive up close than I had thought before, having caught glimpses of him around town. His curly black hair bounces as he looks up to meet my gaze, the even light catching the silver strands and making them shine. His warm, sun kissed skin looks so soft and inviting and he has freckles that add to his boyish charm. His russet eyes are bright and lively, turning into a cognac colour as he shifts on his feet and they catch in the evening light, drawing me in even further. His shoulder length curls frame his face perfectly, the small goatee and moustache giving him a rugged and masculine look.

He’s wearing a blue button up shirt that fits him just right, emphasising his broad chest and muscular arms. His blue denim jacket, lined with the warmest fleece, adds an extra layer of ruggedness to his look. His chest is strong and toned under the shirt, and his sun-kissed skin and freckles only add to the rugged yet boyish look. As he moves, his muscular arms and thick thighs catch my attention, and I feel a flush spread across my cheeks. It's clear that Tommy is incredibly attractive, and I can't help but feel drawn to him.

“Y/N?” Joel’s elbowing me, a smirk evident in his voice and yeah, there’s one plastered on his face when I drag my gaze from Tommy to Joel, “Did you hear a word I just said?”

“Yes?”

“Liar.” He elbows me again, “I’ll take the horses back and let Tommy walk you home. Goodnight Birdie.” Joel presses a kiss to my forehead before shifting Callus’ reins into his right hand so he can take Justified’s reins in his other hand, leading the horses towards the stables.

“Night Dad!” I call after.

“Ha-ha laughing so hard.” Joel shoots back before Tommy is offering his arm for me to take like a real southern gentleman. It catches me by surprise but I do link my arm with him, letting him begin leading me back towards mine.

As Tommy leads back down the familiar streets I can’t help but feel a flutter in my stomach but I try and focus on the small talk we’re making despite the attraction between us being so palpable. The evening light casting a warm glow on Tommy’s features and making him even more attractive if that’s even possible. His hair catches in the breeze and I have to shove my hand into my pocket to stop myself running it through the soft looking curls. We talk about the town, the people we’ve met and how I’m settling in. Tommy tells me about how he became Maria’s right hand man, helping her run Jackson after her dad passed away a few years ago and how it has already grown so much in that time. I can see the passion in his eyes as he talks and it just adds to his oh so captivating presence.

We’re turning the corner and onto my street too quickly, the tension between us building. We both fall silent but it’s a comfortable silence, like we’re both waiting for the other to make a move. Stealing a glance I catch him looking at me with a smouldering intensity, my heart racing as he leans closer, his warm breath brushing my ear. Suddenly, my mind is consumed with thoughts of him and I have to bite my lip to resist the urge to kiss him then and there.

We stop outside the door of my small bungalow, both of us hesitating like neither of us want the other to go. It all feels rather silly as I barely know the man, only hearing stories from Joel and seeing glimpses of him around town and love at first sight is bullshit. I’m sure I’m feeling this way towards Tommy because he’s the first man I’ve interacted with in a while that doesn’t want to harm me in any way.

I fumble for my keys, about to turn the lock when Tommy’s large hand is on my arm and I’m being gently pulled back towards him. I’m pliant under his grip, turning to face him and my back collides gently with my front door, his body inches from mine. My hearts racing and my breath hitching as he leans in close, the air around us static with want and his voice is barely above a whisper when he speaks, “Birdie,” His warm breath tickles my ear, shivers running down my spine when he uses the nickname the town as given me, “Do you feel it too?”

I can feel his chest rising and falling with each breath, his body heat seeping through the thin layers of our clothes. His eyes are locked onto mine, searching for something, and I feel myself getting lost in them. I’m opening my mouth to respond but the words catch in my throat, managing just a small nod and Tommy understands, leaning in even closer as he whispers, “Been thinking about you, Joel’s been trying to set us up.”

Joel’s been doing what? Excuse me? Damn it Joel, I don’t want to have go thank him for setting us up if Tommy does kiss me. But I do want Tommy to kiss me. As my thoughts race, Timmy’s hand moves from my arm to my jaw, his thumb stroking the soft skin there and I’m subconsciously leaning into his touch. The warmth of his hands sending shivers down my spine, feeling his breath on my lips and his eyes flickering between mine and my mouth. The tension is so palpable it makes me let out a soft mewl and it seem to break Tommy’s restraint. His lips barely brushing mine, sending jolts of electricity through me before his hand moves from my jaw to the back of my neck, fingers tangling in my hair as he pulls me in for a real kiss. The kiss is gentle yet demanding, lips moving against mine in a slow and tantalising rhythm. His hand at the back of my neck pulls me even closer, keeping the kiss as our bodies press against each other, the taste of him intoxicating, like a mixture of whiskey and something so uniquely Tommy. I can’t stop the sound leaving my throat, hands moving up to finally tangle in his curls and yank him closer, wanting more of him. The kiss feels like it goes on forever but it also feels like it’s not enough when we finally have to pull away, gasping for air.

Tommy’s forehead is against mine, his eyes closed and lips parted slightly, his other hand rubbing soothing circles into my hip as he catches his breath. It’s quiet and peaceful, the town having gone to bed and the moment feels private despite how open and exposed we are outside. Of course, the moment isn’t broken by us but by Joel as he calls a cheery “Use protection,” as he walks past us to his house only three houses down from mine.

I groan in embarrassment, face heating up at the comment but Tommy’s chuckling, breath ghosting over my skin as he leans in to whisper, “Shall we go inside Birdie.” I can feel his smile against my cheek and it makes me grin too. The tension around us having dissipated, replaced with a comfortable use as Tommy drops his hand from my hip so he can turn the key in the lock. I’m shrieking from surprise when the door gives out from behind me, hands flailing and grabbing wildly for Tommy who’s laughing and wrapping his arms around my waist, catching me easily. I smack his chest, my heart trying to beat out of my chest as he rightens me, unable to stop my own smile in response to his grin.

“You ass,” I’m wriggling from his grip, kicking my shoes off and dropping my jacket on its hook before making a beeline for the kitchen, “Coffee?”

“Please,” Tommy practically moans at the thought of coffee as it’s such a rare delicacy nowadays. I fill the kettle with water and place it on the stove, turning on the burner and waiting for it to heat up, the sound of the water sloshing inside is the only thing breaking the silence in the small bungalow.

As the water heats up, I retrieve my massive bag of coffee I found once on a patrol, peeling off the top to reveal the sark, finely ground beans inside. The aroma hits me as soon as I open the bag, rich and strong, and it reminds me of my parents’ coffee machine before the outbreak. It’s a comforting smell, one that brings back memories of happy mornings spent with them and now happy mornings spent with Joel and Ellie, drinking coffee and chatting about whatever we have to do that day. I scoop a generous amount of the coffee into two much, this bag not gonna be finished anytime soon, watching as the water starts to bubble and boil.

Once the water is hot enough I pour it carefully into the mugs, the coffee grounds dissolving and turning the water a deep brown. The smell intensifies, filling the air with a heady aroma that makes my mouth water and before I can pick up the mugs, calloused hands are sliding down my sides to grip my hips. Tommy’s resting his head on my shoulder and breathing in deeply, the smell of coffee a rare one these days. I expect him to scold me for keeping two of those massive coffee bags hidden away for myself and Joel but he doesn’t say anything, his lips brushing lightly over my neck. I turn in his embrace, wrapping my arms around his neck and feeling his breath on my cheek. The smell of coffee mixes with the scent of him, a musky and comforting aroma that’s uniquely Tommy. He takes one of the mugs from my hand and takes a long sip, closing his eyes and savouring the taste. I watch him, admiring the way the coffee complements the scruff on his face and the way his eyes crinkle in pleasure.

I take a sip from my own mug, feeling the heat seeping into me and despite this coffee being over twenty years old its flavour is just as intense and slightly bitter. It might not be the best coffee I’ve ever had but it’s a luxury that we don’t get to indulge in often enough to be picky.

“You should know I don’t share my coffee with just anyone.” I lean back into his chest, stirring the mugs and relishing in the dark and rich scent wafting through the house now, “You should feel very lucky.”

“Yes ma’am.” He murmurs before stepping back and speaking, “Lets sit down, we seem to have done all this in the wrong order, I want to get to know you better seeing as I’ve already kissed you.”

“I suppose we have,” I agree, feeling almost shy now and Tommy can tell as he pries my mug from my hands and sets both of them on the side as I ask, “W-what are you doing?” His nimble fingers are gripping my jaw and tilting my head up to look at him, his body pressing mine against the counter, the air thick.

“Kissing you again.” He whispers before closing the gap, lips soft and moving slowly as if he’s trying to savour the moment. I respond eagerly, my hands sliding up his chest to twine around his neck and pulling him closer. The kiss deepening, his tongue tracing my bottom lip and I grant him access, moaning softly as the taste of coffee lingers on his tongue. Our bodies press against each other, the heat between us growing with each passing second. It’s a kiss that feels like it could last forever but eventually we break apart, gasping for air.

I can’t stop myself from watching him, feeling my heart racing just as fast as his and my cheeks are flushing with heat. The intensity of the kiss has me left feeling dizzy and breathless as I grin at him, a feeling of deep happiness and contentment settling in my bones. I’m tangling my hands in Tommy’s hair again, pulling him down until his lips are a hairs breadth from mine, whispering breathlessly, “Don’t stop.”

“Yes ma’am.”

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