#LOVE TOAST CONTENT SM

[kor0kke]

ALSO GRR I FORGOT POST THIS HERE!!1!1!!1 NIKKU 17 BUCKS

Cover art I did for a friend, really enjoyed doing this one,,, GO AND LISTENN!1!1

[imwetforyourmom]

HEAR ME OUT!

nicks has a girl best friend and they are super affectionate with each other (hugs, "cuddling" on the couch, etc.) and later on her and chris start dating and thats how chris knows she loves affection and is super lovey dovey. nick comments about chris stealing his girl and funny things like that. something super fluffy and cute. please and thanks <3

xoxo

thank you sm for requests love <33

if you want me to rewrite it, just lmk bae!!

affection.

warnings: none

to my bff: @leah-loves-lilies

~

y/n snuggled into nick, pushing her head into his side and wrapping her legs around one of his, she wrapped her arms around his torso. nick chuckles as he wraps his arms around the girl currently cuddling into him.

he slides down the couch some to get a better hold on her and to get a bit more comfy from his previous sitting position.

y/n hummed in content and mumbled the the lyrics of an audio playing on nicks phone as she watched.

chris looked at them, from the kitchen he stared at how y/n cuddled into nick like a sloth, looking awfully comfortable just hugging his brother and mumbling words.

* • •

y/n hugged nick, maneuvering her arms under his and situating herself so she was somewhat standing between his legs but also infront of him as she hugged him.

pressing her cheek into him he put his hand on her back and rubbed, before going back to buttering his toast as they stood in the kitchen, simply hugging and enjoying one anothers presence, even if they weren’t talking as long as one was touching the other, even if in a small way like hand holding, leg brushing even the smallest touch made them happy.

nick rested his chin ontop of y/ns head, humming lyrics to himself, before patting y/ns back and mumbling “I have to move, y/n.”

y/n groaned but unlatched herself from him and moved to the counter behind them, leaning into it slightly, watching her bestfriend prepare a meal for himself.

chris was sat in a chair by the dinner table, watching the whole interaction go down.

his bottom lip fed inbetween his teeth, thinking about how y/n was so touchy with nick all the time and how she was almost never seen not touching nick.

it was very clear physical touch was her love language, but what would it take for her to touch him as much as she did nick.

hell, for all he knew she might’ve just liked touching nick and no one else, shes never held or cuddled into chris as often as she did with her bestfriend, nick, I mean, they were all bestfriends just y/n tended to touch nick more than the other two boys.

surely she hugged and occasionally cuddled matt or chris, but as chris let his thoughts wonder, he couldnt help but think about how much he fucking adored her, the way her eyes lit up when she smiled, how gentle she was, the way her hands gently grazed alongst someones (nicks) skin when they werent cuddling of some sort. she just always had to be touching someone, more nick than anyone else.

sometimes he likes to think its because nick accepts the affection every single time, and so shes learned that she can always go to him. and since that shes never tested the waters with chris — chris loved, loved physical touch. he liked touching people in ways to remind them he loved them, in a sense when he touched people it was some sort of comfort overtaking his senses knowing that they knew he loved them.

as chris’ thoughts wondered on and on, he couldnt help but ask “hey y/n, you always touch nick and tell him you love him so very often, but you almost never touch matt and i, why is that?”

y/n turned to look at chris, her lips twitching as she thought of what to say. “dunno, just like touching him. I guess ive never thought about touching- ew, I hate saying it like that. makes it sound weird, all like ‘im gonna touch you’” she giggled, before collecting herself from her soon to be rant. “ive just never thought about cuddling you and matt, ya know? never crossed my mind.”

chris hummed in response, letting his mind wander with what she had just said.

maybe he should start initiating affection aswell?

* • •

it was no doubt that chris had a crush on y/n, and y/n always noticed the stolen glances, the looks on her lips being far too long for friendly, the way his cheeks heated up when he saw or came into the same room as her.

y/n also liked him, she just hadnt noticed how much she made it obvious, but neither did chris so maybe they had it in common?

* • •

over the course of the few days chris and y/n became increasingly closer and closer, but their friendship ended one night, and something else bloomed.

chris mumbled something into the side of y/ns head, his words too muffled for y/n to understand.

she moved her head off his shoulder, loosening her arms from around his body.

“what?” she asked quietly, trying not to disturb the calm and quiet atmosphere they were currently in.

the soft sounds from the tv playing in the background, the lights off but red leds lighting the room.

“I said,” he took in a breath before continuing, “can I be your boyfriend please?” his voice suddenly got quiet, his eyes darting over y/ns face, looking for signs if she was confused, disgusted, concerned or any of the sort, but none present, only a growing grin on her face.

she fully removed herself off his body as joy was slowly but surely overtaking her emotions.

“yes! yes! yes!” she spoke, her hands coming to the sides of his face to pepper kisses all over it, not just his lips but everywhere else aswell.

chris’ stomach swelled with butterflies as he felt her soft kisses all over his face, the feeling of her soft lips on his skin and the words of approval making him grin aswell.

she pressed one last kiss on the tip of his nose before mumbling sweet nothings while moving back to his arms.

• • •

y/n stared at the two boys, nick and chris, currently sitting on the couch on their phones.

she debated on who she should sit and cuddle with, I already cuddled nick this morning. she thought to herself before finally taking in a breath and moving to crawl onto chris.

chris was laying on his back, leaving little space between him and the couch cushions, y/n absolutely loved sitting/laying in the small spots of the couches, because she knew she had better access to the person she was currently sitting with.

she crawled into the little space, moving onto her side and wrapping one arm under and around chris while her legs tangled in his and her head laid on his chest.

she moved slightly so now her belly was slightly ontop of chris’ hip. finding this position comfier she sighed and closed her eyes.

nick sat up, his phone at his side as he stared at the two. his mouth dropping and eyes widening.

“damn bro, you really stole my girl.” nick scoffed, looking at chris, watching as his arm came around to y/ns back, rubbing it, giving y/n all the more comfort.

“shut up, you had her all morninggg” chris groaned, dragging out the ‘g’ for dramatics.

“yeah, well, shes been my girl for months, shes only been yours for a week now.” nick crossed his arms, adding onto the fake/play arguing.

“shhh, im trying to sleep.” y/n mumbled, hushing them, before nuzzling her face further into chris side.

chris looked at nick and gave him a teasing look.

chris was so, so grateful nick was always so accepting of y/ns touches and her words consisting of endless compliments, “I love you”’s, and overall unintentionally showing chris just how much y/n loved showing her love to others.

1303 words.

tags

@luverboychris @luvsturns @meg-sturniolo @junnniiieee07

[ratcash-wasgud]

this is my first time requesting here and im so nervous since the idea itself is so cheesy. could we have a modern au loser mizu who listens to "pasilyo" (a filipino song about wanting to get married so badly to someone; i highly recommend listening its so addicting!) and immediately thinks of her crush. thank you sm!

hel lovely!!!!! omg this is such a cute idea...it would be a shame if someone...have added some smut....hm...

anyways i kept this short, just to not overdo the vibe hihi

and you were right, it IS addicting. mwah.

Peonies

"I told you, I don't plan on doing that. Stop trying to play matchmaker, Mama." Mizu grumbles into the phone as she agressively spreads butter onto a slice of toast.

Her mother called her up again, which is always...well, a bother. She just nags her about settling down, even if she's still in college, finding a good boyfriend, getting married, having kids and basically giving up on everything she ever wanted. This is the reason she could never come out to her mother.

These talks always makes her hate the idea of marriage. Why would she ever tie herself down? Plus, it's a stupid old tradition. Plus, it's not even legal where she lives. It's just dumb to even think about it.

"No. I'm just busy." Mizu shrugs as she bites into the toast, still holding the phone up to her ear. Her mom keeps scolding her about ruining the family's name if she refuses to get married.

After about ten agonizing minutes, she hangs up. She lands on her bed with a groan. And just when she thinks she found peace, her phone lights up with a notification. It's a text from a groupchat called Tea Party with Eeyore, which has Ringo, Taigen, Akemi, and you in it.

ringo: omgomg look!

ringo: *a picture of you holding up a full tray of freshly baked pinagong.*

ringo: she helped me with my pastry of the week!!!

taigen: what even is that?

ringo: it's a type of fillipino bread! i learned it in baking class today.

you: we even made a whole playlist of fillipino songs to listen to while we bake :DDD

*you sent the link to the playlist.*

ringo: yup. we got into the mood, if you will

akemi: ringo, sweetie, that could have douple meanings

ringo: oh

The name is a dumb inside joke from that one time Akemi came up with the idea that having blue as a main color and being grumpy is enough for her to be just like Eeyore. She remembers you laughed so hard when she contined this line of thinking and matched Taigen with Tigger, because they're both annoying It's only because of that she doesn't mind this whole thing. She loves your laugh.

Mizu had a crush on you ever since she met you. It wasn't a hard crush to develop, honestly. You were kind for no reason, had eyes with stars in them, always full of energy while wearing the brightest smile she ever seen. You were just generally lovely. She was sure Taigen also had a crush on you at some point, which always irritated her, even if she never planned on making a move.

Mizu was content with the way things were. She was silently loving you from afar while you shined your bright light on her withouth even noticing. You made her happy if you didn't know.

She rolled over to her side, and tapped on the link you sent to the playlist. You had great taste in music, so if you were able to vive to these songs, they can't be that bad.

Then as the playlists starts playing, she hears a couple notes of an electric guitar, and she lightly shivers. Pasilyo was the first song. She never heard about it, but the melody quickly captured her.

She stared up the ceiling and she imagined you and Ringo listening to this song. She imagines you accidentaly spilling flour all over yourself, getting some on your face as you laugh, and she imagines her hand softly wiping it off. She imagines you sitting infront of the oven, staring at the growing pastry dough as it bakes, and having that bright and excited smile on your face when you succesfully decide that yes, it has gotten bigger since the last minute you checked. You'd look at her with big doe eyes when she tells you that it's time to do the dishes afterwards, singlaing how much you don't wanna. And of couse, she'd wash them instead of you, without hesitation. You'd hug her from behind as she does them, and hum the song in her ear, rocking your hips with hers playfully while your soft cheek is squished against her shoulder.

She sudenly wonders if that's how married life would look like with you. Damn, Mama has gotten into her head. But she doesn't mind it if it's like this. Would getting married really be horrible if it was with you? She decies on a firm no. You'd be the loveliest bride.

A bride she'd love to tie herself down to.

You'd stand there, at the altar, wearing all white and holding a big bouquet of daisies, camellias and lakspurs...maybe even peonies.

Yeah...definetly peonies. There would also be peony petals on the floor, scattered across, and one in your hair. Behind your ear...or one holding up your veil.

You'd smile when you see her on the other end of the aisle, like you see your future in her eyes. Your eyes would focus only on her, and your hand would squeeze hers for comfort as she says her vows. She'd kiss you with all her might in that moment. She'd pick you up and carry you away while you both laugh into eachothers faces.

She'd wake up to you every day of the week. To your soft cheeks squiched up against the pillow, your hand around her, and your breathing tickling her skin. She'd never want to get out of bed. She'd wake up hours earlier just to cuddle your sleeping form.

When you'd stir, you'd look into her eyes with your still hazy ones, and plant a good morning kiss on her forehead. In return Mizu would kiss your cheek, then your nose, then your jaw...then your neck, then your chest...

She'd put her hands on your breats, softly squeezing them as she teases them through your thin pajama top. She'd want it to be casual, domesticated, but still so, so exciting to make love to you.

She'd slowly get on top of you, and get lost in the way you're looking up at her. She'd slowly lift your top, and press her knee between your legs. Oh, how'd you tremble. You'd look up at her all needy, she'd have no option but to help you.

Her tongue would softly curcple your nipple, dry lips wrapping around it to trap it, all for herself. Her hand would slowly find it's way inside your pajama pants, long fingers sliding through your lips. She'd toy with you slick, because she knows it's there because of her. She'd bathe in the feeling of your clit pulsing for her before sliding her fingers inside, massagnig your inner walls. She'd coo in your ear, because you're just so precious when she's inside you like this. You turn into a ragdoll, and you can't do anything but whimper for her. You'd depend on her, especially in moments like this.

She'd give it to you every morning. She'd never hesitate to obey every command your body gives her.

Then she'd watch you make breakfast with your ears still red from getting taken by her so early in the morning. You'd sit in her lap while you'd eat breakfast. She'd feed you pieces of her bacon, and you'd give her bites from your egg. She'd give small pecks to your soft lips, to kiss away droplets of coffee.

She gets torn out from her daydream though by another text. She looks at it through half lidden eyes.

ringo: we made too many :(

taigen: that's what u get for always going overboard

you: mizu !!!

you: do you want some? i think you'd love pinagong!!!

Mizu smiles to herself as she reads the text. Maybe she isn't fine with how things are right now. Maybe she does need to make a move.

mizu: yeah

mizu: omw.

Maybe...she could stop by the flower shop and get some peonies.

Just maybe.

[l3vi-bby]

OK SO

M! Reader with Beel but reader is a chef/baker. Beel only learns about Readers talent when he eats one of their meals and finally feels full for the first time probably ever. Beel questions reader about the contents of the food and reader is like “idfk, made with love?” Because of this, Beel forces Reader to make him food as much as possible.

Small little thing I was thinking about, thought it might be cute.

𝙇3𝙑𝙄-𝘽𝘽𝙔 ;; ᵒⁿ ᵗᵘᵐᵇˡʳ ░ : ｡.｡

warnings / sum // he's full of your love and still wanting more. || beelzebub (obey me! one master), male reader, fluff

a / n // tysm for giving me my first ever request on here + i love beel sm so i was so excited to start writing this!!! [B. NAME] = bakery name (usually would mean "brother" but in this fic no)

# full of your love // beelzebub x m!reader ≟ ˚◦

: ｡.｡ ░ ᵒⁿ ᵗᵘᵐᵇˡʳ ;; 𝙇𝙀𝙑𝙄-𝘽𝘽𝙔

𝙄𝙏 — was known all across the Devildom that [F. NAME]'s baking was the best and not only that, but the [B. NAME] was also great, even Barbatos and Luke would agree so, their own pastries maybe put to shame. The bakery smelt of fresh sweets, toasted bread, and the clear aroma of caffeine. Everything in the building screamed a homey feeling, it brought a warm welcome to any person, demon, or angel walking in. A heaven in hell.

It was unsurprising that Beelzebub, Avatar of Gluttony, quickly found out about the place, and became a frequent patron. Not only that, he was the generally the sweetest and most supportive, having the money to buy all of the bakeries pastries if he wanted to. It was currently a normal day, it had begun to snow in the Devildom and demons all around looked for refuge in any open stores. Beelzebub sat down at a table, scarfing down the food given to him by [F. NAME]. The demon looked up at [F. NAME] as he munched, "your baking is always the best, [F. NAME]... mmm..." The [H. COLOR]-nette could only chuckle, placing more food before the other, "so I've heard, Beel." They continued to bask in each other's warm company, [F. NAME] soon pulling in a chair and propping his elbows up to admire his favorite customer. Beel gulped down the remains of the food with a good jug of coffee and sighed in content. He patted his stomach and realized an odd feeling. "... I feel so full, [F. NAME]." "I'd be surprised if you didn't, you've ate more than you regularly do." Beel shook his head, "no, you don't understand. I never get full." The ginger tightened his brows at the other, seeing as how the baker was not staring back quizzically. "That's interesting...?" [F. NAME] said, confusion in his tone. They stayed staring at each other for a minute or two, an awkward atmosphere still growing. [F. NAME] opted the conversation was done and stood up, grabbing a nearby platter and stacking the empty dishes, Beelzebub could only watch, a curious wilderment still evident. He suddenly snapped out of it, stopping the baker. "What do you put in your food?" Caught off guard, [F. NAME] opened his mouth to close it again. Shouldn't it be obvious...? Flour... sugar... salt — y'know, what else is one supposed to put in a pastry? "What else?" [F. NAME] softly smiled, "it's pastries." Beelzebub shook his head, not satisfied and repeated his question. [F. NAME], a platter still in hand, took his other and placed it on his chin in ponder. "Hmmm... love, I guess?" The silence came back at Beelzebub widened his eyes. [F. NAME] chuckled again, the melody of his voice filling the bakery as he went back to tidy up. Beel felt a feeling deep inside him, butterflies swirling inside his chest. The deepest red took over the avatar's face as he slowly raised his hand, grabbing [F. NAME]'s wrist. Both became surprised at the upcoming words. "Please, make me as much food as you can!" "U — uh? I'm sorry?" Beel stood up, his face now mere inches away from the other, "more! I need more!" [F. NAME] smiled, trying to stifle his laughter but soon blowing up. "Sure! Sure — haha, just — just sit down Beel, and I'll cook you all the food you want!"

𝙇3𝙑𝙄-𝘽𝘽𝙔 ;; ᵒⁿ ᵗᵘᵐᵇˡʳ ░ : ｡.｡ impo . // masterlist || req info / post

[thebearchives]

2 and 3 from group D with Pierre or Max

pairing: max verstappen x fem!reader

prompts: neck grabbing during kisses + intimate back hugs where they slowly trail kisses from your collarbone to your jaw, making you shiver

the night had been loud and exhilarating, a stark contrast to your current morning. at this moment in time, the night was just but an echo in your quiet home, drowning under the sounds of birds chirping and your eggs sizzling.

you stood over the stove, humming along to the song stuck in your head. next to you were two plates, both bare as you moved to place the eggs on them.

you heard his steps before his arms circled around you, forehead pressing against the nape of your neck. 

“good morning, champ.” you placed the pan back on the stove, cracking another egg into the pan.

“g’morning, schatje,” his voice was raspy, a shared result of the screaming from the night before and the long sleep he had just woken from. 

you pivoted to throw out the eggshell, giggling when max refused to let go, moving with you, “you’re quite clingy today, maxie.”

his head moved forward, eyes peeking over your shoulder to see what you were doing. his lips only just grazed your bare skin as he responded, “you weren’t in bed when i woke up. missed you, ‘s all.”

you felt him smile when a shiver crawled down your spine. a low chuckle escaped his lips, and you shrugged his head away from your shoulder, “well, your breakfast is just about ready. do you mind grabbing the toast?”

max’s hands slipped from around your body, doing as you asked. but before you could even continue your own task, he was back, pressing into your back with a sigh, resting his chin on your shoulder. his hands tightened around you as he watched you cook.

you rolled your eyes, hand reaching up to push him away, “go away, your breakfast is getting cold.”

“but schatje,” his hands trailed to your hips, “your food’s not ready yet.”

“and it won’t be if you keep me tight against you,” you craned your head back to look at him.

he placed a kiss just to the side of your mouth, “sorry, meijn liefde, but i’m not letting go until you join me.” my love.

you dropped it, knowing he had no intentions to step away from you. this was a common occurrence from max whenever he was home to experience such domestic moments with you. he loved wrapping his arms around you and just holding you, and you loved being held by him.

max stuffed his head back into your neck, his deep breaths tickling you every time he sighed with content. but max was a driver— an adrenaline junkie— who knows not how to stay in one place, but continue to move. and after a few moments of silence, he moved again. 

this time, he raised his head just barely over your shoulder, lips coming down softly and placing a lingering kiss on your shoulder. your breath hitched in your throat, eyes unwavering from where they stared at the browning edges of what would be your fried egg.

max’s lips moved again, just a few spaces higher than his last placement— where your neck met your shoulder.  your body subconsciously reacted, turning your head to the side so his access to your neck was easy. his lips lingered there, too, just a tiny bit longer than the last kiss. another kiss up the ladder, lips grazing past your sweet spot to plant themselves just left of it. you couldn’t help but wish he wasn’t such a tease.

the second batch of eggs cooked faster than the other, or at least that’s what you told yourself when you rushed to plate them before they burned to a char. max’s lips had only just reached the base of your ear when he lowly whispered how your eggs were burning. 

you grabbed his hand, tugging it to get him to let go. he caves, letting you sidestep him to place your breakfast at the dining table. max grabs your favourite juice from the fridge, and two glasses before coming to join you at the table. 

before you sit down, he tugs you by your arm, pulling you into him. your eyes are wide as you stare back into his, he can’t help but smile.

“what?” you ask him, head tilting slightly. 

for a split second, max’s eyes drift to your neck. his hands come up, resting on either side of your neck, just below your ear. he pulls you closer, eyes closing softly before his lips mesh against yours.

his lips are smooth, courtesy of the lip balm that he had stolen from you one night. your eyes flutter shut as his lips move against yours. his thumb presses into your cheek lightly as he tries to pull you closer. you feel lightheaded, just like you had the first time you kissed max all those years ago. 

your hands grip his, and he knows it’s time to pull away. he leans back slightly, eyes closed to let the moment linger as your short breaths mix between you two. his thumb caresses your cheek lightly, and he opens his eyes.

“ik hou van je,” his voice is just barely louder than a whisper and you smile, “en ik hou van jou.” i love you…and i love you.

maybe, last night had been a celebration fit for a king—a champion. a celebration in the name of your husband, who had won another title. 

but this morning, and every morning that would follow after the announcement of his retirement from the sport, was a celebration of love. and as max’s hands slipped down to lay flat against the small bump of your belly, you sighed blissfully. a celebration of love, fit for the three of you together.

[dumbslxtclub]

you’re on your own, kid | e.m - part eight

eddie munson x singlemom!reader

summary: set after the events of season four, Steve has disappeared and is presumed dead in the upside down. broken and now left to deal with your pregnancy alone, Eddie takes it upon himself to support you to the best of his abilities in Steve’s absence.

chapter summary: a new baby in the house, a friday night date and your best friend playing babysitter. what could go wrong?

content warnings: fem!reader, adult language, adult themes, unplanned pregnancy, angst, hurt/comfort, some canon divergence/au, mentions of death, reader is 19, anxiety, angst, fluff, no use of y/n, slow burn, not beta’d

word count: 9.3K+

a/n: did I get a bit too caught up in writing this chapter? absolutely. time for eddie to enter his dad era. would love to commit to a regular upload schedule but knowing me as a person that will be hard. love you all sm though xx

taglist: @lezzy-bennet @harrypotteranna23-blog  @reidstea @sashaphantomhive  @bexreadstoomuch​ @audhd-dragonaut​ @littlepotatobeansworld @ches-86​

↳  one / two / three / four / five / six / seven / eight  / nine / ten / eleven

Part Eight: Mother’s Daughter

The first few weeks with a new baby in the house are bliss. Crying-filled, sleep-deprived bliss, and any feelings of readiness are slowly dissipating. The routine is clear. Feeding, changing diapers, laying her to sleep for a bit, and repeat. Sounds simple, right? Wrong. Dead wrong.

Despite having read What to Expect When You’re Expecting, it seems that Audrey doesn’t particularly enjoy playing by the book. Take tonight, for example. You’ve tried everything to get her to stop crying, you can’t believe her small lungs haven’t gone hoarse from the hours she’s spent exhausting them. Wandering around the dimly-lit living room like a horse stuck on an infinite carousel loop, you’re quietly beginning to stress all the while rocking and shushing Audrey in your arms. The ringing in your ears is relentless, and you’re just doing your best not to join her crying as you mentally curse your parenting skills in frustration.  As the clock reads 9:37pm, you know your neighbors will be preparing for bed, laying out their clothes for their early morning shifts and expecting a quiet night. Something they won’t be granted if you can’t get your baby under control.

“C’mon, what do you need?” You whisper in her ear, knowing perfectly well she won’t be able to hear you over the piercing noise she’s emitting. Her diaper is freshly changed, she’s just had a feed and you’re beginning to worry something might be wrong with her. Oh god, what if something’s wrong with her? She’s like a smoke alarm, but you can’t tell if you burnt the toast or if the whole house is on fire. Lips pressed to her head, you try to decipher if she’s got a fever, bouncing her up and down as she continues wailing. “It’s okay, honey, it’s-“

A sharp knock rings out on the wooden front door, causing your heart to race. The chances of the person on the other side being a disgruntled neighbor ready to lecture your parenting skills were high, but what other choice did you have? Sighing, you bounce your way to the door, swinging it open to reveal Eddie, still in his work clothes and holding a plastic bag, steam clinging to the sides. A wash of relief crashes over you, his expression warm as he sees the two of you.

“Oh thank god, I thought someone was here to bite my head off.” Supporting Audrey on your shoulder with one arm, you use your free one to wrap around Eddie’s waist, leaving him to pull you in the rest of the way.

“Nah, I’m not here to go full-Ozzy on you.” He keeps you tucked in a cozy embrace, evidently not bothered by the screaming alarm right next to his ear. “How’s the little hellraiser?”

“Raising hell.” Closing the door behind him, you continue to pace around the room as Eddie pulls off his jacket and sets the bag down on the bench. “She’s been like this for hours, I don’t know what to do. I’ve tried everything.” 

Gently cupping her back, you continue patting it lightly the same way you’ve been doing all evening. What do they say about the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results…

“Well, how about-” Hands diving into the plastic bag, he pulls out two noodle boxes, the smell of teriyaki sauce filling your senses and reminding you how long it’s been since you’ve eaten something substantial. “-I take over for a bit, and you have something to eat?”

Arms outstretched and looking at you expectantly, it doesn’t take much convincing before you pass your screaming bundle of joy his way. His eyes light up as he takes her in, feet scrunched to her torso as she’s passed to him. Eddie, as it turns out, is a natural at holding babies. Once he got over his own self doubt and fear of dropping her, he’s now very comfortable with Audrey in his arms. He mirrors the position you previously had her in, tucking her head into his shoulder, facing inwards so he can keep an eye on her. Broad hands support her tiny shrieking body, gently patting her back while you busy yourself ripping into one of the boxes.

“Hey, Squid, long day, hey?” You shoot him a disapproving look, shoveling sauce-covered noodles and vegetables into your mouth at the kitchen counter. 

“She’s got a real name now.” You point your chopsticks at him like a weapon, and he grins proudly at the mere fact he’s gotten a rise out of you so early into his arrival.

“Yeah, but Squid is so original!” 

As he continues to pace, a soft stream of ‘shhh’s’ leave his lips, close to Audrey’s ear. His thumb finds the back of her head, rubbing the peach fuzz gently all the while keeping his eyes on her for any noticeable reaction. And, as luck would have it, the room becomes quieter, sporadic cries now weaning off. You feel a mixture of relief and frustration, how does he do it so easily? He looks around the room, ears perked up. 

“Do you hear that?”

“What?”

“Silence.” He proclaims smugly, having used his magic touch to turn cries into coos, Audrey now happily squirming in Eddie’s arms.

“Show off.” Picking up the box, which you’ve half polished off already, you cross the room to plant yourself on the couch for the first time in hours. The sagging cushions embrace your tired limbs, forfeiting your weight to the support beneath you while you poke around looking for a piece of chicken amongst the sea of noodles. “You wanna know a secret?”

“What’s that?”

“I think it’s your smell.” He looks at you, utterly perplexed by your insinuation. Not wanting to offend him, you’re quick to clarify. “No, not in a bad way! It’s just- when she was in my belly she would go crazy every time you were around. It’s like she could sense you, in a weird way I think she’s always recognised you.”

“Stop, you’ll give me a big head.” He glances down at your daughter, whose eyelids are now growing heavy, clearly exhausted from all the crying, haven’t we all been there before? “And that’s your job, isn’t it Squid?”

If he wasn’t holding an infant, you’d give him a good whack right about now for yet another unwarranted comment about your daughter’s very normal head size. But he’s not above using Audrey as a human shield, the absolute savage. As you dig into your meal, you can’t help but take in the sight illuminated by your dim lighting. There must be something in our biology that causes our hearts to swell at the sight of a man holding a baby. The sheer juxtaposition of their appearances is comical, Audrey in her purple flower-covered onesie, her small feet tucked into the footie pajamas, and Eddie, all hard-exterior in his work overalls and combat boots, pacing the room holding her. They’re chalk and cheese, and somehow, the best of friends already. And it’s, dare you say, kind of attractive? A small smile creeps over your face at the thought, and Eddie is quick to notice your not so subtle gawking.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“No, really. Did she spit up on me?” He peers down at his shirt, looking for any milky traces of drool. You shake your head, looking back down at your meal, loosening some broccoli stuck to the bottom..

“No-no, it’s not that. It’s just- you look cute like this.” You feel yourself blushing at your own compliment, immediately cringing over the words that came out of your mouth. What a weird thing to say. Eddie struggles to suppress his happiness over your comment, contorting his lips into a grateful smile while carefully treading over to the bassinet to lay down a yawning Audrey.

“Well, I’ve heard cuteness is contagious. Like herpes.” He readjusts Audrey’s onesie once she’s comfortable, before turning back to you.

“Gross.” Way to kill the moment, Eddie. He grabs his own box from the bench along with his chopsticks, planting himself down on the plush couch beside you. He’s sitting about as close as he usually is, knees almost touching yours but the air between you feels thicker. He’s always throwing thoughtless compliments your way, but rarely is he on the receiving end. Did you just make things super awkward? Time to change the subject.  “Appreciate you bringing dinner over, the fridge is tragically bare at the moment and I was just going to settle for some tinned Spaghetti-O’s.”

“Very gourmet. Back to the old junk now you’re not eating for two?” He says through a mouthful of noodles. “If you want, I could take you into town tomorrow? Get you stocked up, show Squid all the exciting sights Hawkins has to offer. The post office, the big maple tree in the park, maybe even a dog or two. Y’know, the works.”

Biting down on a snow pea, you contemplate his offer, nerves brewing in your belly. You’re fully aware that the whole town knows about your pregnancy, undoubtedly sharing whispers about whose baby it is behind your back. But the thought of actually venturing out into the world with her? That scares the shit out of you. But, you know it’s only a matter of time before that Band-Aid has to be ripped off.

“Yeah, alright.” Fuck.

“Put those down.” Robin snatches the store-brand Cheerios out of your hands, placing them back on the shelf in favor of the name brand. “We’re getting you the good stuff.”

Strapped to her chest in a newborn baby carrier, Audrey sleeps blissfully tucked against Robin’s plaid shirt. The stroller seemed like too much of a hassle for a quick trip, and Robin proclaimed she needed some “skin-to-skin bonding time” with her. You trudge along behind her, pushing a shopping cart that is being stuffed with all sorts of fresh fruit, vegetables and pantry items. As she compares two bottles of long-life milk, Eddie returns around the corner with a large bundle of diapers, dumping them into the rapidly-filling cart. 

“God, how many of these things does she go through a day?” He furrows his brows together, studying the packet of soft tissue.

“Usually between 10-12.” Robin replies without missing a beat, glancing down at her shopping list made after a thorough inventory of your pantry. Eddie’s eyes widen at her response, clearly thinking he was stocking up with the bulk packet. He turns to Audrey, and places a hand gently on her back as he leans in to her.

“How does someone so small cause so much mess?” He whispers in her ear, loud enough for you to hear, Robin is quick to swat his arm and shield the infant from his words before turning his attention to the diapers.

“Eddie! These aren't newborn sizes.” She pulls the packet back out and throws it at Eddie’s chest, who looks down befuddled.

“Is there a difference?”

“Uh, yeah. Unless you were buying these for yourself?” Her remark causes you to snort, Eddie scrunching up his nose in your direction. 

“Ha ha, very funny. Show me which ones I was supposed to get, your highness.” He flourishes his hand down the aisle in an ‘after you’ motion, Robin rolling her eyes as she marches down with Eddie trailing behind. Looking back to you, he brings his pointer finger up to his temple, thumb facing skyward with his other three digits tucked to his fist. He pulls the trigger on his hand gun, and mimics brains blowing out on the other side with a dramatic stumble into the adjacent Coco-Puffs. Ever the showman.

As your friends disappear around the corner, you glance around the brightly coloured logos decorating tinned goods, perfectly stacked up on the metal shelves. Wheels clicking along the tiled floor, the tragic supermarket music playing over dying speakers throughout the store. Leaning on the cart with your forearms resting on the handle, you meander through the aisle to the freezer section at the end. As your cart passes the threshold of the shelves, a figure emerges and bumps straight into your cart. Oh good, first day out and you’re already making a scene and accidentally assaulting a stranger. 

“Oh shit, I’m so sorry!” You apologize, looking at the person standing in front of you who just bore the brunt of your cart crashing into his thigh. Studying his face, you can’t help but think he looks familiar. A thin layer of stubble now growing across his jawline, light brown curls sitting underneath a baseball cap. He returns a similar look of recognition, uttering your name to clarify that you were, in fact, you.

“Oh hey! ‘Ts Andy? We had Chemistry together junior year?” The penny drops in your brain, your mouth contorting into a well-mannered, pleasant smile as you begin to place him. “I nearly set your hair on fire with a Bunsen burner?”

“Oh yeah, hi!” You reply, shaking your head. “Sorry, it’s been a while.” 

“Yeah, it sure has.” He readjusts the small basket in his hand, filled with some sort of jerky and a six-pack. He gives you a once-over, studying you from head to toe in your old jeans and tank top. “How’ve you been? You look well.”

You silently thank yourself for putting in a bit of effort today, patting on enough concealer to hide the fact that you were up feeding Audrey for most of the night and brushing your hair for the first time in a week.

“Yeah fine. Y’know, just busy.” Busy pushing out a human. “What about you?”

“Back in town visiting the folks, killing time before heading back to college. Got into Purdue on a basketball scholarship, actually.”

“Wow, congratulations!” You shoot him a genuine smile, it’s always nice to hear when someone gets out of Hawkins to pursue bigger and better things.

“Yeah, it’s been great. Haven’t seen the boys in a while, so we’re getting together at Benny’s tonight for a catch-up.” He holds his basket up to punctuate, the cans of Bud Light bouncing light from the flickering fluorescent above.

“Benny’s. Shit, I haven’t been there since-“ You bite your tongue at the evocation, cheeks flushing as you recall your high school antics. Too embarrassed to speak the words into existence, Andy has no problem verbalizing the memory.

“Since you got up on the bar after homecoming and did a full Flashdance number for everyone?” He says with a laugh, your eyes squeezing shut as you cringe.

“Yep, that sounds about right.” The two of you walk parallel past tubs of ice cream sitting in freezer cases, a self-deprecating laugh leaving your lips. “But, in my defense, no one told me that the jello shots were alcoholic!”

Andy shakes his head and chuckles, setting off a few paces in front of you. “You had some killer moves, though.”

“Yeah, well it’s been a while since I busted them out.”

“Haven’t had any jello shots recently, I’m guessing?”

“Exactly.”

There’s a beat as he swings open one of the freezer doors, grabbing a bag of ice out, holding it in his free hand before facing you directly.

“Well, uh- maybe if you’ve got time this weekend we could hit up The Hideout or something? Defrost those Jennifer Beal dance moves, grab a few drinks if you want?”

You feel your breath hitch in your throat, surely he’s not asking you what you think he’s asking? Averting your gaze to the tiled white flooring, you’re suddenly interested in the dirt and dried spills sitting in the ancient grout.

“You mean, like, on a date?”

“Well, yeah. Unless you-“ The sentence is only partially formed in his mouth before a deep, familiar voice calls out behind you. 

“Right, hopefully these will last her until tomorrow-“ Spinning around, you clock Eddie, who is now holding the mega-sized pack of newborn diapers under his arm. His band tee logo is now obscured by the black sling across his chest, a ringed hand cradling the back of it. As it appears, Robin has been relieved of baby duties and passed them onto Eddie, Audrey still dead asleep tucked up to his chest, rosy cheeks flushed, pressed to his torso. A small patch of drool is forming on his white shirt, and to complete the look, he’s attached a spare pacifier to his wallet chain hanging off his jeans.

Andy is quick to give him a one-over, not dissimilar to the one he gave you, but this time clearly charged with an air of disdain.

“Munson.” Words like venom leaving his lips. 

Eddie, an expert in navigating his own reputation, pokes his tongue against the sinew of his cheek expectantly. Let them get their hits in, and fuck off. Recognising he’s not about to get a rise out of the metalhead, Andy simply scoffs before turning his attention back to you, rummaging for something in his pocket. He hands you a business card of sorts, something he had made to palm off to scouts at games, complete with his contact details on it.

“See you around.” His words are hushed between the two of you, excluding the third man from the interaction. Heat rises in your cheeks as he shoots you a smirk before heading off, not returning another glance at Eddie. You discreetly pocket the card before returning to the unlikely duo back from their diaper quest.

“What was that about?” Eddie half-chuckles, gaze following the aisle in which Andy disappeared down. You shake your head.

“Nothing. Where’s Robin?” Extending a hand to the peach fuzz growing atop your daughter’s head, smoothing it down and relishing in the sensation of her soft skin against your clammy hands. 

“Oh, uh- she saw an old friend out the front.” White lies being exchanged with the clearing of his throat, each of you oblivious to one another’s predicament. “C’mon, she’s starting to stink and I don’t want people thinking it’s me.”

“A dirty diaper could only help your stench at this point, honestly.” The banter flows effortlessly from your lips.

“I hate you.”

Eddie didn’t get the memo that this Friday wouldn’t be a regularly-scheduled movie night, his arrival somewhat jarring as Robin prepped and preened you within an inch of your life. Plucking stray hairs from your brow, hot rollers stinging your scalp while she used you as her own life-sized Barbie, ready for her date with Ken. The knock at the door occurred just as you swiped on a layer of lip gloss, Robin rushing out of the bathroom to welcome your visitor. Their conversation is cut short as you exit your tiny bathroom, giving them a flourishing twirl relishing in your final form.

“How do I look?” Almost imperceptible and unnoticed by you, the tendon in Eddie’s jaw clenches under the weight of his emotions. The physical manifestation of the ugliest feeling, a jealousy he couldn’t admit to himself yet. Here you were, standing in a black Stevie Nicks-esque dress complete with platform boots, like the perfect woman in every music video flashed across the late-night MTV runs. Dark circles now perfectly concealed below your eyes, accentuated by a smokey-brown eyeshadow. Lips previously chewed raw from stress now glossy and plump. Hair in bouncy curls, Farrah-Fawcett style, a far cry from the matted bun you typically sport. You looked beautiful. But then again, you always did. Whether it was stained tracksuit pants or Robin’s curated outfit designed just for tonight, it was all you to Eddie. Not necessarily better, just different.

“You going somewhere?” He asks, taking in the image of you before him in the glow of your living room lamp. Not the glowing endorsement you were hoping for, but Robin’s elated grin gives you the confidence boost you crave.

“She’s got herself a hot date tonight.” Robin squeals in Eddie’s ear, giving his shoulders a tight squeeze as she drinks you in. The pair stand there like two parents sending their daughter off to prom, complete with a quietly disapproving father beside the front door. And you, giddy like a lovelorn teenager with a fresh corsage around your wrist, swipe up your purse and head for the crib. Audrey, who is freshly fed, bathed and changed, looks up at her mom as you give her a sticky kiss on her forehead, immediately swiping away the glossy residue left on her supple skin.

“I won’t be out long, I’m just going for one drink.” 

“Heard that one before.” Eddie mumbles under his breath, heard only by Robin who shoots him a warning glare while you find your keys.

You give your handbag a once over. Keys? Check. Lipgloss? Check. Spare diaper? Che- nope, don’t need that one tonight. Pull it out and chuck it on the crowded excuse for a dining table. Check your watch. Time to go.

“See you guys soon! Eddie, you’re welcome to stay and keep Robin company.” You give the pair of them a hug. Something firm is pressed against your torso, seemingly located in Eddie’s pocket. “Dude, do you have a horror film in your pocket or are you just excited to see me?”

Eddie’s cheeks flush as his lips purse together in a smile, reaching into his jacket pocket to pull out a VHS copy of The Fly. Flashing it between his thumb and forefinger, you can’t help but roll your eyes at how predictable he is. 

“You’re not putting that on until Audrey is asleep. I don’t want her scarred for life before she can even crawl.”

“Yeah, yeah. No flies for Squid tonight.”

Hand on the door, Eddie shoots you his most ‘butter wouldn’t melt in my mouth’ smile. Son of a bitch.

“Robin, keep them out of trouble.” Door swinging closed behind you, the three musketeers bask in the glow of your freshly sprayed perfume, the kind you only put on for special occasions. Eddie dropped his facade as soon as he sees you climbing into your car, shooting daggers in Robin’s direction for whatever part she had to play in this whole situation. It was going to be a long night.

Look, Andy was fine. I mean, he opened the door for you, and he showed up. What more could a fresh young mother on her first date in nearly a year ask for? Safe to say, the bar is low. But if Andy is as good at basketball as he is at rambling on about himself, he’d give Magic Johnson a run for his money. In any other case, this would bother you, your last previous romantic experience was much more evenly distributed conversationally. Armed with only the topic of your baby daddy’s death and recently relieved case of mastitis to disclose, you allow his drabble to flow freely. The Hideout plan ended up being a bust, something about the music “not being to Andy’s taste”, resulting in plan B; the pair of you sitting on sticky laminated booth seats in a small diner just outside of town. He ordered a well-done steak with all the fixings, and, before you could decide between the double cheeseburger with bacon or the chicken burger, a salad was ordered on your behalf. Slightly soggy lettuce pieces are pushed around with your fork, digging for any croutons that have absorbed the light dressing at the bottom of the plate. He seamlessly transitions from stories about college, to his basketball team, to the parties at his frat and then, as a special treat, a story about how his buddies on the basketball team got too wasted at a frat party and ran naked through the college campus. As you wipe your mouth clean with your napkin, having polished off your salad and trying your best to avoid your hungry gaze landing on the dessert cabinet, it strikes him that he hasn’t asked you a question the whole evening. And boy, what a question he chooses to ask.

“So, ‘ve gotta ask. What were you doing with Munson at the supermarket? Never pegged you two to be the type to run in the same circle.” 

Swallowing your food like a dry pill, it claws down your throat while you feel the sudden heat of judgment. Eddie’s reputation was no secret to you, yet you were one of the few to see past the bullshit propaganda spun about him. But with not much else to talk about, you decide to engage, hoping to shut down the conversation quickly.

“Oh, Eddie? He’s a friend, he lives across from me, actually.” Your words are meek and Andy scoffs, the two brain cells floating around in his skull colliding and recognizing that, you too, must also live in the trailer park. 

“Right. So you guys hang out then?”

“Uh, yeah. Sometimes. Y’know, he helps me out…”

“... and you do the same for him, I’m guessing?” He reaches for his nearly empty beer and knocks back a mouthful. “Can imagine he needs all the help he can get now, what with an extra mouth to feed and all. Hope you’re not throwing a single dollar his way.”

Oh fuck. Fuckfuckfuck. He thinks Audrey is Eddie’s kid. Clearly, with him being out of town, gossip around your pregnancy hadn’t spread to the Purdue fraternities.

You’re suddenly incredibly interested in a sliver of cherry tomato slipping around the plate. “No, no. I mean, he's got a job and all, so-”

“Selling drugs isn’t a real job, doll.”

“No, he works-” It crosses your mind that it’s best not to reveal Eddie’s actual workplace location to this man, god knows a fair few of the townsfolk still have it out for him. “-he’s just not selling shit anymore.”

“Yeah? Well shit, ‘ve gotta say, I didn’t think he had it in him. ‘Course a guy like him, going and stupidly knocking some girl up doesn’t surprise me. But Munson? The fact he convinced someone to fuck him is unbelievable.” His words are callous and subconsciously cruel all the while uttered with a laugh, the kind of locker room talk that he’s grown so accustomed to that he doesn’t recognise how jarring it can be to hear spoken so casually.

The sheer notion incensed you, nails digging into your palm beneath the table, the only outlet for your growing rage. Baffled by how he looked down continuously on ‘The Freak’, upholding high-school preconceptions and refusing to accept the real world evolving around him. Completely delusional to the fact that people grow and change. The sneer in his voice as he simultaneously belittled and ridiculed Eddie, not knowing that he was far more of a man than he could ever hope to be, infuriated you. 

The man who, for the first week after the birth, would wait diligently through the early mornings for your bedside lamp to go on, simply so he could race over to assist you on your short trip to the bathroom as your stitches healed, waddling helplessly in your port-partum underwear. Who would volunteer to take your spit-up covered laundry to the laundromat, purely so you wouldn’t have to wake a resting Audrey and grant you another hour of peace and quiet. Who looked at your daughter with such love and softness, despite no biological obligations to her, going through the motions of learning how to change a diaper just in case he needs to. It boils your blood. How fucking dare he pass such unfair judgement on Eddie? Your rage feels primal in nature, coursing through your veins like a hit of morphine. An overwhelming sense of protectiveness takes over, and you allow the words you’d like to say tip-toe across your tongue before returning to the deepest recesses of your mind. But, as with everything in womanhood, you know not to react with anger. Oh no. You need to make this easier for him to hear than it is for you to experience. 

“It’s not his.” Your voice comes out as barely a whisper, attempting to suppress the bubble threatening to burst.

“What?” Andy obnoxiously chews his well-done steak, on full display and half-masticated in his mouth. Your eyes meet his, taking in a short breath as if the added oxygen will dissolve your nerves.

“I said it’s not his.” You celebrate your words coming out a bit clearer this time, more firm.

“Then whose is it?”

“She’s mine.” The words tumble out of your mouth before you can stop them. Andy quirks his brow at you, never ceasing his chomping on the char-grilled hunk of meat.

“What?”

“Her name’s Audrey, and she’s- she’s my daughter.” Any remnants of confidence you’d built up were slowly disintegrating under his judgemental watch. The tip of his tongue meets one of his canines, mouth contorting into a wicked smile. His eyes trace over you, much like in the supermarket, yet you sense that any traces of affection have all but vanished.

“Right.” He runs a hand over his jawline, the nail on his thumb digging into the crevice between two of his teeth to retrieve some steak lodges between. “And who’s the dad?”

“It doesn’t matter.” You reply plainly, very much not wanting to go into the details of Steve.

“Oh, so you don’t know?” His eyes widen slightly, tone growing increasingly more mocking.

“No! Of course I know, it’s just-”

“What? Let me guess, he did the smart thing and left? Didn’t want to be tied down pouring all his salary into child support to some trailer trash? Shit, it’s girls like you who ruin guys' lives.”

Mouth agape, you couldn’t throw an insult back if you tried. You feel yourself shutting down, growing small under his harsh gaze and demeaning words. Tiny and worthless in that moment. A rush of adrenaline hits you, fight or flight triggered. You have nothing more to say to this person from your past, feeling stupid for even bringing him into your life now. Tossing your napkin to the table, metal utensils clanging as you swing your legs out from the booth and grab your handbag. Without looking back, you make a beeline for the door, teeth grinding together as you hear his voice ring out behind you.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart. I’ll grab the bill! Not like you could afford it, anyway.”

The door slams so hard you swear you heard the bell fall off its hinges.

The drive home is silent. Something you would normally welcome under any other circumstances. The road is devoid of cars besides the occasional late-night commuter, the radio switched off completely with not even the static-y crackle to drown out your thoughts. Tears pricked the corners of your eyes, stinging with the anger still coursing through your blood vessels. God, how could you have been so fucking stupid? 

The living room light peeks through the slit of the curtains of the trailer you call home. Insecurity lingers in the pit of your stomach, you wonder if you could fit the whole place into Andy’s pool house (you probably could, knowing the neighborhood he lives in). The keys click and jingle as you turn the rickety doorknob, crossing the threshold into your kitchen/living/dining room. A studio audience laughs through the speakers of your second-hand TV, the figure on the couch reaching for the remote to lower the volume at your arrival.

“Hey.” In the light of the sole lamp, you make out Eddie fully reclined on the couch, placing the remote beside his head as his free hand caresses the lump on his chest. Audrey, heavy-lidded and limbs sprawled out, lays atop his torso as careful fingers trace up and down her exposed back. Her chunky legs were now on display, all creases and rolls like the cutest little Michelin man. You feel a sense of relief wash over you, taking in the sight of the thing you loved most in this world while you throw your handbag somewhere to the side.

“Hi.” You reach out to relieve him of the human weight from his body, lifting her up and tucking her into the crook of your shoulder. You just need to hold her right now. Feel the weight of her tiny body in your arms. Tilting the bridge of your nose to her unkempt crown of hair, you are shameless in your deep inhale of her scent. It washes over you with the force of a tidal wave, engulfing you in the sense of security you so desperately craved right now. Her bare skin pressed to yours. This is it. This is your home.

Eddie hoists himself up, flattening out his mess of hair from laying down for who knows how long. The only indicator of time being the cut to commercial breaks on the TV in the distance as he watched Squid’s eyes grow heavy with each passing jingle. He reaches for his boots at the base of the couch, undoing the laces to slip them on.

“Sorry, she, uh- had a little accident in her onesie and so I changed her. Then she got all fussy about putting on a new one, kept trying to kick me away. No tears or tantrums though, so I just brought her in here to hang out for a bit and we lost track of time-” His rambling words trail off, taking notice of the steady stream of tears cascading silently down your cheeks leaving a black streak of eyeshadow behind. “Woah, hey…”

His mode of comforting was beyond words these days, now deciphering your body language while you tucked your head to your daughters in an attempt to conceal yourself. Wordlessly, he discarded his boots and stood up, embracing the pair of you tight to his chest. He knows that you’ll talk about it if you want to, and if not, he’s there to hold you while you let it all out. The tears continue to flow, ringed fingers running through your hair and caressing your scalp. Tucking your head into the crook of his shoulder, effectively creating an Audrey sandwich, you allow yourself to be held. You will for the tears to stop, for the lingering frustration to evaporate. But you know you need to lean into it, release it from your subconscious through the bile burning in your throat and hiccuping sobs resonating throughout your chest. You’re sick of running from the pain, it’s time to embrace it and fuck it right off. Eventually, your tears run dry. All the while Eddie continues to hold you, waiting patiently. As your breathing steadily returns to normal, he pulls away to study your face.

“Feel better?”

“Yeah, thanks.”

He takes Audrey, all squish and skin in just her fresh diaper, from your arms.

“You go take a shower, I’ll get her ready for bed. Okay?”

You simply nod, grateful for the help, before wiping your wet cheeks and turning in the direction of the bathroom.

Hours of wasted effort are washed away in a matter of minutes under the low water pressure of your shitty shower. Black mascara and eyeshadow streaks down your flushed cheeks, the stream of water from the shower head soaking your fried hair. Nothing but the sound of water splashing against the grimy tiled floor, the soft thrum of liquid streaming through the pipes in the wall. Peace and quiet. Solitude.

“So stupid.”

Wrapping yourself up in an old towel, you see a familiar reflection in the mirror. Stretch marks fading across the small swell of your stomach, purple hues in your tear troughs against your skin, complexion dull and sullen. Back to your old self. The bedside lamp is already illuminated when you enter your bedroom. Clothes scattered across the floor, some clean, but most dirty. The door has been closed for your privacy, so you pull on some sweatpants and an oversized shirt that likely belonged to Steve. It’s been so long, you can’t remember whose it was now. If it was his, any traces of his scent have long since vanished. Once a treasured possession given as an act of love, now another cotton shirt in a sea of insignificance. Droplets from your damp hair create patches on the canary yellow shirt on your shoulders. 

Swinging open the door, you see Eddie swaddling Audrey, freshly dressed in her pajamas having decided not to put up a fight while mom’s around. He’s laying her down in the crib carefully, sucking away on a pacifier. This is the longest she’s gone without fussing or crying in a week, and so you simply stand at the doorway and watch him. He takes no notice of you watching him while leaning against the frame silently. He readjusts her swaddle, making sure she’s comfortable. Smoothing down her crown of soft hair on her head, a smile grows, dimples on full display as her eyes grow heavy and she settles. And, in a quiet moment between the pair, you watch as he leans down into the crib, placing his lips to the space between her eyebrows to give her a goodnight kiss. Your heart swells at the sight, warmth radiating through your body as you bear witness to this moment of affection. You must have let out an exhaling chuckle an iota too loud, Eddie quickly glancing in your direction sheepishly.

“Sorry. Couldn’t help it. She’s so cute when she’s not screaming or shitting everywhere.”

“Well, she’s only human.” You retort, earning a smile from him. He taps the side of her crib, stealing one last look at her. “Where did Robin pop off to?”

“Oh, she uh- had to head into the store. Something about Keith being locked out of the computer. She probably did it on purpose to fuck with him.”

You chuckle, shaking your head. “Yep, sounds about right.”

There’s a slightly awkward beat as Eddie retreats from the crib, picking his keys up off the coffee table. “You need anything else before I go?”

“Maybe some ketamine?” Eddie’s eyes widen at your joke, delivered too deadpan for him to catch your sarcasm. “That helps you sleep, right?”

“Or I could just give you some acid and watch you stare at Squid for a few hours? Turning into an actual octopus and then back to a baby, I’ll even try to get her crying as a real treat for you.”

The two of you are now full-blown laughing now, the air light between you. 

“We’ll save that for another night, I reckon.”

“Good call.”

Strolling over to you, he wraps his leather-clad arms around you, tucking you tight to his chest. You’re consumed by his musky scent, familiar and warm to the two girls in the room. Extending your arms, you lock your hands around his waist, scratching your nails absent-mindedly along the cotton shirt.

“Thank you for everything.” You mumble into the thrum of his heartbeat.

“It’s nothing.” He pulls away to get a glimpse of your face, gently taking your chin between his thumb and forefinger to tilt your gaze up to meet his. “You’re doing so well. Don’t forget that.”

Despite being all cried out, you feel the telltale prickle of tears stinging the inner corners of your eyes as you nod. And, just like he did with Audrey, he leans down to press his plump lips to your forehead, leaving a quick peck on your skin. 

“See you tomorrow.” He gives your shoulder a firm squeeze before turning on his heel towards the front door. You shiver at the loss of contact, wrapping your arms around yourself to simulate the experience of being held. Chewing on your bottom lip, you fight a mental battle with yourself in a nanosecond, glancing down at the crib where Audrey has succumbed to sleep. “Eddie?” You call out, resulting in him stopping in his tracks, hand still on the door handle.

“Mmm?”

“Um, this is a bit weird to ask. But, uh- if you, would you mind maybe staying here tonight? You don’t have to, but um- you’re good with Audrey and I might get an extra hour's sleep if you were here to check on her through the night. Like, I’ll get up to feed her, but she can just get fussy and maybe if you were here she-”

Eddie had heard enough, silencing your ramble with a nod of his head, eyes closed as he smiles humbly.

“‘Course.” Relief hits you, picking at your nails to disperse any remaining nervous energy. “I’ll just run home and grab some pillows and a blanket for the couch, alright?”

“Oh, the couch sucks. I’ve crashed on it many nights and you’ll wake up feeling like shit. If you’re okay with it-” Oh my god, are you really about to say this? “-You’re welcome to just share my bed?”

Eddie freezes, contemplating the offer. “And you’d be okay with that?”

“Yeah, I mean, I share the bed with Robin all the time. And I’m sure you snore quieter than she does.”

Gaze down at his shoes scuffing the floor, his tongue pokes into the corner of his mouth. “What about pajamas? I mean, I’ve got stuff at mine I can get…”

“Eddie, in case you forgot I was pregnant with a whole-ass human for nine months. I’m sure I’ve got clothes that will fit you.”

He simply hums in agreement, releasing the door knob from his grasp and meandering to the center of the room.

“Yeah, okay.” He shoots you a warm smile. “Mind if I grab a shower first? Someone’s in a fresh diaper and it’s not me.”

You roll your eyes while he chuckles, making his way past you with a scruff of your hair. “Dude, so gross…”

You should have washed your sheets. You should have tidied up the mountain of clothes sitting in the corner, or at the very least picked up the straggling items strewn across the stained carpet. You should have decluttered your bedside table, decorated with balms, half-empty plastic bottles and the odd candy wrapper. But then again, you weren’t expecting a guest in your bedroom tonight.

The window above your bed is cracked open, allowing a fresh breeze to enter, eliminating any potential stuffiness. The cotton sheets are soft against your skin, two pillows now absorbing the remnants of water seeping from your damp hair. The rattling of pipes above your head ceases as the water supply is cut off, the sliding door of the shower opens in the ensuite. Moments later, the door swings open, and Eddie re-enters your room. His scraggly hair now roughly towel dried, ringlets forming at the ends while a crown of frizz haloed. Towel in hand, the bats adorning his forearm take flight as he scruffs his hair once more, peeks of pale skin now coming into your view. The waistband of his borrowed sweatpants hang low on his waist, hip bones barely peeking out over the black material. From the dark fabric, lines of ink bloom and flow across the expanse of skin, an indication of tattoos you did not know about. 

“You got a shirt for me? Or is pants all I’m getting tonight?” His words snap you out of your daydream, before you can wonder where the tattoo ends below his waistband.

As you glance up, the towel is lowered to hip-height. At this moment, you realize that you forgot to give him a shirt to change into. Pale expanses of skin decorated with tattoos, scar tissue of wounds long since healed across his torso. You indicate to your oversized Bowie shirt at the base of the bed, a thrifted find you failed to try on before purchase, rendering it an awkward length dress on your frame. Taking the cover in his hand, he meanders back to the bathroom to hang up the towel. You can’t help but study the grooves across his broad back, the odd scar scattered across the smooth skin like a brushstroke of some obscure painting. 

Precise, yet unintentional. Beautiful.

He emerges moments later, fully dressed, giving you a small twirl. “How do I look?”

“Better than I ever did in those.” You reply as he sits on the edge of the bed.

“Not sure about Bowie, a bit different to my usual taste but we can rectify that later.”

“Yeah, yeah.” 

Snuggling into the sheets, Eddie smiles as he pulls back the covers. “I’ll take the first shift, alright?”

“Sure.” And with that, you reach over and switch off the bedside lamp. “Night, Eddie.”

“Night.”

Despite the seductive call of rest, sleep does not come easily for the first hour. You’re acutely aware of the body beside you, occupying the same close space once reserved for Steve. It’s alien. Unfamiliar and yet simultaneously comforting. With the constant shuffling of bedsheets beside you, you roll the dice on the odds that Eddie is in the same situation.

Andy’s words continue to ring out through the quiet room, reverberating like an echo. Hitting you like a bullet to the chest over and over again, picking away at the scabs you’ve spent months trying to heal.

“Eddie?” You mumble, still facing away from the metalhead.

“Mmm?” A gravelly voice replies through the darkness.

“You awake?”

“No.” Letting out a huff, you can practically hear his grin as he rolls over to face you. “What’s up?”

Chewing on your bottom lip, you think about your little girl in the next room. Peacefully sleeping, tucked up, unaware of the impact she’s had on the world in her short time here.

“Do you, um- do you think I would have ruined Steve’s life?” You allow the gravity of your question to hang in the air, unable to bring yourself to face him. “Like, if he was still here, do you think he would have been able to have the future he wanted even with Audrey and I in the picture?”

“Why would you-“ He shifts, figure towering over you as he cranes to glimpse your face through the light streaming in through the curtains above. “Did Andy say something to you?”

You don’t reply, the lump in your throat a threatening harbinger of tears dancing precariously on the edge of release. That familiar ache of inadequacy returns to the pit of your stomach, causing you to sink under the weight. Picking at a loose thread on the pillow case, you fail to formulate a response. But you don’t need to. Unbeknownst to you, Eddie is seething beside you, heart pumping adrenaline through his veins. He’s contemplating how long it would take to find Andy’s house if he left right now, and what sound his bones would make as they crush into fragments beneath the blow of his knuckles. Your silence is a response in itself, edging his body closer to yours. 

“Hey…” Fingers delicately brush hair off your cheek, and you fight against the urge to retreat from the contact. It’s not that you don’t enjoy the sensation, you do. But in a vulnerable moment like this, your modus operandi is to shrink away and cope with it solo. Instead, you tilt your head to catch a glimpse of Eddie, faintly lit but his reassuring manner is clear as day.

“Sometimes I- I’m glad he’s gone.” Guilt burns in your chest at your admission. “I miss him a lot but fuck, what kind of a life would he have come back to? A kid tying him down, fucking up his future. It’s better this way, y’know?”

“Don’t say that.”

“I just- I wanted so much more for him. He deserved so much more than this-”

“Stop.” His command is clear, firm yet gentle. “Why do you always do that to yourself?”

“Do what?”

“Make out like you’re a burden, because you’re not. You might be the best thing that’s happened to m- all of us, in a long time.”

“‘m sorry.” Tears are now steadily cascading from the corners of your eyes, ticking the edges of your ears. Eddie shifts closer beside you, the warmth of his chest to your side immensely comforting. 

“Listen. Harrington cared about you, a lot more than he led on. And I can tell you for a fact he would have loved Squid more than anything in this world.”

Teeth grinding together, you will the heartache to vanish. It doesn’t. All the whole Eddie continues lightly stroking the loose strands of hair framing your face.

“Yeah?”

“Are you kidding me? You saw him with the kids, he was a natural at wrangling them, loved the idea of having a big brood. If he was here, he’d probably be asking you to pop out another one and the two of you would be in a motorhome heading out west somewhere.” You ache at the thought of a life that will never be. “And with you of all people? Fuck, there’s worse ways for a guy to end up in this world. Some of us would be so lucky.”

“I just- I know how this past year has been for you, and I don’t want you to feel like you need to take all of our shit on top of that. Plus, you being seen in public with me-”

“What, worried people will start making assumptions about us?”

“No! God, I just don’t want to give the people of this town another reason to talk about you behind your back. What with my reputation and all.”

“You’re worried about me?” He chuckles lightly. “Sweetheart, I’m not sure if you’ve heard the rumors about me, but this is better than I could have ever expected after all the shit that went down last year. I mean look at me, getting to spend my night with the cutest girl in town. And you, of course.”

He grins ear to ear at the genuine smile he’s earned from you, however short-lived it may be. With his forefinger, he swipes away the recently shed tear before it can reach your hairline. 

“And Andy? Fuck, a guy like him doesn’t know the first thing about life. Having such an easy ride, he couldn’t do half the shit you have in the last year.”

Mind numb, you simply nod in response. Your tears are now running dry, finding solace in his genuine reassurance. Eyes sore, your gaze lands on the worn neckline of his shirt, shadows casted onto the skin beneath creating valleys out of his collarbones. Without thinking, you reach for the guitar-pick necklace dangling from his neck and rub your finger across the smooth ornament. Back and forth for a moment or two, sniffling as you take the first steps towards composure.

“Thank you, Eddie.” You mumble, peering up at the man before you. Watching the steady motion of his hand running through your hair, his eyes catch yours with pure kindness, patience you’re not accustomed to. 

“You’re the strongest person I know. Please don’t forget that.” His hand traces around the frame of your face, his palm finding solace in the crook of your jawline just below your ear. Subconsciously, you can’t help but lean into the sensation, relishing in the comfort of your face being cupped. Grounding yourself in the heat of his palm against your skin. Understanding that this is what safety feels like. 

Slowly, Eddie lowers his plump lips to your forehead, much like he did earlier. But this time, it isn’t a hasty goodbye. 

It’s measured. Calculated. And, unbeknownst to you, very brave. 

Lips meet skin, soft and supple. Hand still caressing your cheek with subconscious strokes of his thumb. You can’t resist closing your eyes to lean into the sensation. 

It’s nice. Comfortable. And something he definitely hasn’t done before. 

Almost as if you’re afraid of losing this moment too soon, your hand wraps around his wrist, keeping it in place despite Eddie having no intention of moving it. 

Eddie swears he feels his heart skip a beat as your fingers curl around his arm, mentally praying you can’t feel his heart about to pump out of his chest with your bodies pressed together. The scent of your shampoo lingers on your scalp where the bridge of his nose rests, filling his senses. He, too, closes his eyes. He wages an internal war, knowing he should pull back but can’t help but fall victim to the comfort of this moment. Grasp tightening slightly on your skin, he remains selfish for a beat longer. And you let him. 

When he does pull away, you’re placed under an intimate microscope of study. Big brown eyes inches away from your face, studying for any sign of discomfort. Nothing to be found. His hand continues to cradle, nose remaining close enough to feel the soft breath fanning your face. 

In the faint light peeking through the fluttering curtains, shadows are cast across the hollows of his face, painting an intimate portrait of the man you’d not taken the time to inspect closely. The creases scattered across his forehead, indicators of a life filled with pain and regret. Faint stubble littered across his strong jawline, further emphasizing the severity of his bone structure.

How his full bottom lip curls inward slightly, lost in thought. A perfectly shaped cupids-bow, the soft flush of pink tinging his skin, the way the corners of his mouth turn up slightly. The suggestion of minty toothpaste ghosting across your face, as if you could taste it.

Eddie’s breath hitches as he watches your gaze flicker from his lips back up to his eyes, ceasing the smoothing motion of his thumb on your cheek. He feels as if he’s been caught doing something he shouldn’t, like a young child caught red-handed reaching into the cookie jar. Yet, he doesn’t retreat. He’s done with running. His hand remains, a heavy-lidded gaze locked onto yours. And he can’t help but drink in the vision of you lying before him. Unapologetically and shamelessly. 

It’s blurry, how the inches begin to lessen between your faces, the distance edging closed as breaths intermingle. It’s entirely possible you leant forward, recalling the vague sensation of cool air hitting the back of your neck from the partially dried hair clinging to it. Equally as likely, the adrenaline coursing through Eddie’s system rendered his actions perfunctory. Nights spent thinking, wondering, pining, culminating in this moment of sheer bravery. 

Not driven by the outcome. Just the desire for closeness. For more. For you.

Your eyes flutter half-closed as you feel the tip of his nose brush against yours, the contact sending shivers down your spine. An unspoken game of chicken, waiting for the other to back down while mouths edge closer still. Your hand creeps up, laid flat across the top of his against your cheek, the inches between you charged with electricity. No one backs down. Neither of you want to. 

Anticipation crescendos as you feel his lips ghosting above, unable to distinguish if they are meeting yours or the charged tension in the air existing between you has manifested on your skin. A suggestion of skin on skin, holding back the tidal wave of desperation simmering beneath the surface. 

Close enough to taste-

The two of you jolt apart as a fierce wail echoes through the living room, finding your respective sides of the bed. Heart pounding, you steady your breath as Eddie struggles to look at you, shooting from under the covers.

“I’ll get her.” He mumbles awkwardly, staggering to his feet like he’s lost faith in his limbs to keep himself upright. “You um- try to get some sleep, okay? Night.”

And without a second glance in your direction, he swings the bedroom door closed behind him. The sudden distance between you hits you like a gut punch. Of all the stupid things you did tonight, this may have been the stupidest. You should feel glad for Audrey’s perfectly-timed interruption, grateful to know you won’t be getting up every few hours to attend to her. You can sleep freely. But fuck, with the rate your heart is pounding right now, you wonder if you’ll get any rest at all tonight. As you lay your head back on the pillow, you let out an exasperated sigh, trying to return your heart rate to a steady pace. 

The bed suddenly feels entirely too empty.

[bratshaws]

through the hourglass 351.brb x oc

THIS CHAPTER IS 18+ IF YOU ARE A MINOR PLS DO NOT INTERACT!!!

a/n: :,) i just love them sm (comments and reblogs are super welcome and encouraged!)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: rooster. also LOVE MAKING WOOO

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

1/

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-

She hasn’t stopped smiling ever since they left her parents’ house. They got home at night time,  literally spent a whole day there, laughing, enjoying food, napping a bit because she was tired…and now she watched her husband from the door frame, watched as the white tee stretched on his shoulders a bit as he pours them some wine, “Wine,LC?” she asks, “This late?”

Rooster looked up from the wine bottle he was holding, a"Why not? A little late-night wine never hurt anyone. Plus, it feels like a perfect way to cap off such a wonderful day."

Beatrice smiled, her heart swelling with contentment. She walked over to him, feet bare"You know what, you're right. A toast to a perfect day."

He handed her a glass, their fingers brushing in a gentle exchange. The clink of the glasses filled the air as they made a silent toast, savoring the rich aroma of the red wine.

"To family, love, and the unexpected joys of life," Rooster declared, his eyes locked with Beatrice's.

"Cheers to that," she replied, taking a sip. The wine was velvety on her tongue, a perfect complement to the tranquil evening. They moved to the living room, settling on the couch with glasses in hand.

Beatrice curled up on the couch, her legs tucked beneath her. Rooster joined her, an arm casually draped over the backrest as he savored his wine.

"So," Rooster began, a smirk on his lips, "what's got you grinning like the Cheshire Cat all day?"

“I don’t know what you mean.”

Rooster raised an eyebrow, "Come on, gorgeous. You've been smiling from ear to ear since we left your parents' house. Spill the beans. What's making you so happy?"

Beatrice chuckled, unable to suppress her joy. "Okay, okay, I'll spill. It's just… she sighs, happily “ being with everyone today, with my family, with you—it made me realize how incredibly fortunate and happy I am. I have this amazing family, a wonderful husband, and a life that feels like a dream sometimes."

Rooster's expression softened as he listened to her words. "You deserve all the happiness in the world, gorgeous. I'm just glad to be a part of it."

She leaned into him, her head finding its familiar spot on his shoulder. "You are a huge part of it, Roos. I couldn't ask for a better partner in this crazy journey."

He pressed a tender kiss to the top of her head.smiling against the brown tresses. "I feel the same way. Every day with you is a gift." he sighs, the lavender in her hair entering his nostril and he felt at peace, “...also, your mom forgot I got the promotion,huh.”

“She did.”

“Yeah…she screamed so loud I think it woke the dogs.” he hums,  “And she cried a lot.”

Beatrice chuckled at the thought, hugging his arm with the one that wasn’t holding the glass. "Well, she's always been the emotional type. I'm pretty sure the entire neighborhood knows about your promotion now."

Rooster grinned, "Should I expect a neighborhood-wide celebration or just a congratulatory cake from your mom?"

"Knowing her, it could be both," Beatrice replied, laughing. "But seriously, Roos, I'm so proud of you. You've worked hard, and you absolutely deserve this promotion."

His smile widened at her words. "Thanks, baby. It means a lot to hear that from you. And your family's reaction...I wasn't expecting that level of excitement."

"It's not every day they have a son-in-law climbing up the military ladder," Beatrice teased, nudging him playfully. “Besides,you know how they are, of course they’d be over the top,Roos.”

Rooster chuckled, his eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and gratitude. "Well, I'm honored to be the cause of such excitement. Your family has always been incredibly supportive, and I couldn't be more grateful for that."

Beatrice nestled closer to Rooster, her hand tracing absent-minded patterns on his chest. "You know they love you just as much as I do.” she whispers, inhaling his cologne and then looking up when he got quiet, ‘...Roos?”

He tried,feebly so, to hide his tears, wiping them with his fingers, “I’m fine,gorgeous.”

Beatrice, concern etching her features, propped herself up on an elbow to look at Rooster. "Hey, what's going on?" She reached out to gently wipe away a stray tear on his cheek.

Rooster took a deep breath, managing a shaky smile. "Sorry, it just hit me. The combination of the promotion, your family's reaction, and... I don't know, I guess it's a lot of emotions all at once."

She scooted even closer, her fingers lightly tracing soothing patterns on his arm. "It's okay, Roos. Emotions are a part of life, and there's no need to apologize for feeling them."

He nodded, taking a moment to collect himself. "I just... I never imagined I'd be here, surrounded by such love and support. It's overwhelming, in the best possible way." he frowns, sniffling again and groaning with annoyance, “With everything that went down I–”

Beatrice smiled tenderly, her gaze filled with understanding. "You've come a long way, Roos, and you've earned every bit of this. Your hard work, dedication, and the love you've given and received—it's all you.”

He sighed, letting the weight of her words sink in. "Sometimes, it just feels surreal, you know? Like I'm afraid I'll wake up, and it'll all be a dream."

"Well, I can assure you, it's very much real," she said, her voice gentle, because boy oh boy,does she know what he means. "You're not dreaming, I promise you"

Rooster's eyes locked onto hers,brown irises moving all over her face. "I love you, Beatrice. More than words can express."

Her heart swelled with affection. "And I love you, Roos. More than words can express.” she smiles, cupping his cheek, “I worry about you, handsome.” he laughs softly, wiping his eyes again and Beatrice took that moment to set her glass aside and slowly climb on his lap,  sitting atop of his thighs with her arms on his neck, “I truly do.”

He stops sniffling for a few seconds, then drops his hands on her hips - glass of wine immediately forgotten - when he feels her warmth on his jeans, “I know…I’m okay gorgeous.” he smiles, rubbing her chin with his thumb and leaning back on the couch, “...I like this view.”

Beatrice chuckled, a warm, melodious sound that echoed in the quiet living room. She shifted slightly on his lap, finding a comfortable position, and leaned in, her lips hovering near his ear. "Well, if you like this view, maybe we should make it a regular occurrence."

Rooster grinned, and the hands on her hips tightened their hold "I wouldn't mind that at all. It's the best seat in the house."

She planted a soft kiss on his cheek. "And the best company, too."Beatrice, still perched on Rooster's lap, traced the contours of his face with her fingertips, savoring the closeness. “It is a great view.”

“Trying to make me4 blush?”

“Is it working?”

His eyes squinted a bit, the dimples on his cheeks becoming prominent as he smiles. “...maybe.” he slides the hands from her hips to her thighs, feeling where the fabric ended and skin began, “A little yes.”

Beatrice's fingers continued their delicate exploration of Rooster's face, tracing the contours of his strong jawline and lingering on the scruff that adorned it. Rooster, in turn, relished the sensation, his eyes locked onto hers "I could get used to this," Rooster admitted, his voice a soft murmur. "Just you and me, enjoying the quiet moments."

“Well,it’s been a while since we had the time to sit down and…relax.”

Rooster nodded, his hands gently caressing her thighs as he reveled in the proximity. "Agreed. Life gets so busy, “she feels his fingers going tap, tap,tap, on her skin, drawing shapes as he speaks, “...and I missed you so much.”

"I missed you too, Roos," she confessed, her voice a tender murmur. "Life does get crazy, but moments like these make everything worthwhile."

Rooster's fingers continued their rhythmic dance on her thighs, "Hmmm…” and his eyes drop down from her lips, to her neck and then to her chest, seeing it rise and fall as she breathed in and out, “...yeah…yeah true.”

“You are not even paying attention,Roos.”

Rooster's gaze snapped back to her eyes. "Guilty as charged. But who can blame me when there's such a beautiful distraction sitting on my lap?"

"Flatterer. You always know how to turn a situation around."

He grinned, his hands now settling on her hips again, providing a comforting warmth. "Well, when you have the most beautiful distraction in the room, it's hard not to get a bit distracted." he smirks, leaning closer, “And I love turning you around too.” his hands slide down to her ass where he cupped both cheeks with gusto, groaning when his palms were filled by her flesh, “Fuck,”

She gasps softly, watching as he dropped his face on her chest and she had to admit…she missed him too and sitting on his lap was already doing things inside of her. She did use a dildo, but once you have someone - once you have a Rooster - she could orgasm but it wasn’t the same.

She feels his teeth gently scraping the upper side of her left breast and his tongue following the cleavage before he moves his lips up,kissing where her neck met her shoulder with a happy hum, “You still taste really good…”

Beatrice’s eyelids dropped a little and she tried to hear if the dogs were coming over or if the baby monitor squeaked with activity, but she heard only silence. Her shoulders dropped in relief just in time for her husband’s large hands slide under her shirt until he reached her bra strap, tongue still trailing up and down her neck, “Roos…”

“Yeah?”

“We better go to the bedroom–” she squeaks in surprise because he immediately picked her up, bouncing her body in his hold to keep her steady as he walks to the staircase, all the while kissing her neck, sucking the skin enough for a red hickey to bloom on her skin.

Beatrice gasps his name, her nails gently scratching his nape as he tried, quietly, to go to their bedroom without waking anyone. She couldn’t remember the last time they had sex, which was a god damn mistake since there was no way she’d forget him.

They got inside the room and Rooster blindly locked the door, his saliva glistening her neck and chest before he sets her down, only to slam their lips together. The absence, from both sides was finally hitting, and hitting hard.

Bea moans into his mouth, feeling his hands cup her cotton shorts and then pull on the elastic, “Take ‘em off.” he breathes against her lips, pressing hot kisses on her skin, “Get all nice and naked for me,gorgeous.”

And he’s looking at her so hungrily she only nods and smiles, backing towards the bed while keeping her eyes on him. She wished she could remove her clothes and remain gazing at her husband’s body, because that man was carved out of marble. He is naked within seconds saved for his dark briefs that now were just a bit tented, “...how long were you–”

“Ever since we started drinking.” he replies, chest heaving, “...c’mere.” he doesn’t give her enough time to react because he kisses her again, his hands sliding under her cotton shorts to slide them down her thighs.

She moans into his mouth as he grabs her ass again, digging his digits into her ass cheeks and leaning back just enough to slap it. The sudden crack echoed all around the room and Rooster swallows her surprised moan, his hand moving to her front. Beatrice gasps into his mouth as his fingers slide inside of her by just pulling her panties’ crotch to the side.

He’s so very pleased when his fingers immediately feel the moistness inside. “You are already so wet for me.” he coos, kissing his way over her ear, mustache scratching her skin as she leans into him, breasts squished against his chest as she feels his calloused digits moving in and out of her.

He can feel the dribble sliding down his hand and he bites his lower lip, because he missed this so very much. And normally, he’d be all up for foreplay but– “Roos,please,” she gasps, hips moving against his hand, “Please,I just need you…r-right now.”

Oh.

Well.

Who was he to deny her?

He has to breathe in to calm himself down, slowly pulling his fingers out - the gentle squelching wasn’t missed by either of them - and licking them clean, he just watches with lust heavy eyes as she smiles - god he loved her smile - and gives her back to him to remove her bra.

“I don’t know why i’m so nervous.”

He flicks his eyes back up at her, seeing how she suddenly hugged herself. Oh that wouldn’t do. He is quick to get rid of his briefs and step behind her,pulling her hair to the side so he could kiss her neck, moaning in pure raw need when her cheeks just wrap around his member as he steps forward “Wha-why are you– fuck – nervous?”

“I don’t know.” she repeats, “I think it’s because it’s been a while since we,” and his hands cup her breasts, fingers pinching her nipples and squeezing the soft flesh, “W-We had…s-sex….oh god.”

He smirks, moving his hips slowly, grinding his cock against her ass, “I love you.” he whispers, “All of you. You still look as fucking sexy as I remember.” he kisses her shoulder, “How do you want to do this?”

Her whole body is on fire, but she replies, “I missed having you on top of me.” she whispers, biting her lower lip when she feels his smile on her skin, his hands sliding down to the love handles on her hips. 

“Well,” he coos, “Get comfortable,gorgeous.”

She wastes no time in stepping forward and falling on the bed, grabbing a pillow to get comfortable and so she could see him better. He looked unreal, like a full body illusion with the sexiest swagger she had ever seen. She bites her lower lip again, flushing just enough to make him smile as he settled on top of her.

He kisses her lips, then her cheekbone, before he nuzzles their noses together, “Wanna do the honors?” he asks while gently prodding her entrance - his gland latches on the opening for a second before it pops out again, and Beatrice whimpers while nodding.

He doesn’t know why but feeling her wedding band touching him as she align his member to her entrance was unbelievably hot. He just keeps his eyes on hers, those green irises shining with unshed tears and those pink,glossy lips of hers parting as she finally achieves it…and he pushes forward.

Honestly it’s a feeling both missed and it’s hard for them to control how good they feel. He wastes no time in interlacing their hands together and pulling them above her head. Eyes still locked as his hips move. He watches her micro expressions, the way her lips part into his name, how she whispers it so reverently but as quiet as a mouse.

Rooster is mesmerized. He always is, honestly, when it comes to Beatrice. He’s so happy. he’s so happy. He couldn’t explain but the way this woman made him feel was out of this world. His hips meet hers and he’s slow, he’s languid, he wants both to njoy this, he wants both to remember how they felt to one another.

Her wetness was comforting and warm and nice. Nice, perfect, perfection.

Beatrice was perfection.

She gasps again, a bit louder and she bites her lower lip. He knows that the flesh will be redder because of the blood rushing under there. He knows there’ll be indentations from here her teeth dug into, he knows he’ll kiss those indentations over and over because he loves her.

He had planned for something else right now, but he didn’t care. He smiles so much when her eyes focus on his and those pearly whites greet him. He moves a bit faster and her breasts shake because of it, but he’s so latched on her face.

She mouths a very quiet ‘what?’ between moans and he shakes his head. He doesn’t know what other adjectives could be said to describe her right now. He missed her, missed this, missed them. Maybe it was the whole M thing, the whole investigation but…for a second he thought he wouldn’t be able to…well.

He drops his head on her shoulder, letting go of her hands for a second so he could wrap his arms around her waist while her own arms were around his shoulders. His hips moved faster, the gentle slapping of skin against skin was loud enough for them to hear but only them. He digs his fingers on her ribs, feeling the soft flesh dip under the pressure, he wants to keep her there.

He knows he’s about to orgasm but he doesn’t care. And seeing how Beatrice got her own before his was enough of a reason for him to let go. He does so by lifting his head and pressing his forehead to hers, mouth parted, panting heavily, “I love you.”

“I love you too Roos.”

“I love you so much.” he furrows his brows, moving his hips faster, “I love y–” he swallows his groan when his orgasm hits and teeth clench  as the shudder goes up and down his spine. Her soft hands caressed the back of his head, up and down, playing with the golden brown waves as he stutters with aftershocks.

He doesn’t move. Neither does she. He just inhales her sweet scent and keeps it to memory.

“i’m gad it’s you he thinks

I’m glad it’s you too. she thinks at the same time.

I’m glad it’s us.

[mikrochasm]

First Kisses, part 1

Summary: collection of scenarios for your first kiss with SVT. Just a couple members because they were easy to write about lol

Content: just fluff! Just kissing! :) reader is g/n

A/N: Hi :) I'm new to SVT tumblr and wanted a space to try out writing! Hope you enjoy!

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

Jeonghan

Jeonghan kisses you the moment he realizes his feelings. Why wait? You’d come over to his place to hang out and the two of you ended up sitting on his couch having a heart-to-heart for hours about anything and everything that came to mind. It wasn’t unusual for this to happen, but then you started talking about your recent failed date, speaking poorly for yourself and imagining bleak futures, and hearing you speak that way tugged at Jeonghan’s heart a little extra. You’d both complained about your love lives before- why did it affect him so much this time? His thoughts suddenly shifted from “they deserve better” to “I would be so much better for them.” Shit clicked on like a lightbulb. Without even thinking he cupped your face in his hands and pulled you towards him mid-sentence. It was chaste and quick, not even giving you time to respond. He pulled away only slightly to gauge your reaction, and he swears he could see your lightbulb click on too.

Soonyoung

God I…love him sm.

He’d wanted to kiss you since the very first date, but was worried it was too forward. Something this special needed to be taken slow, he reasoned. But in reality he’d built it up a little too much in his mind and was now more than a little nervous. Him- nervous? It was driving him crazy. He decided he just needed to rip of the metaphorical Band-Aid, so he steeled himself going into the date that it was going to happen. He thought about just going for it when he met you outside the restaurant- no that was too casual. He thought about leaning over the table after you toasted glasses- no that would be too awkward. He thought about doing it after you both stood up to leave- no there’s too many people around (why didn’t that cross his mind for the other two scenarios?). Lo and behold the next thing he knew 2 hours had passed and he was walking you to your front door and he………….hugged you goodbye? No! The thunk of your door closing woke him up from the trance. No! No!!! He knocked immediately and you opened up, confused but with little time to think because in a second Soonyoung’s hands pulled you in by the shoulders and he crashed his lips into yours, body entirely too tense. He only relaxed when you pulled away slightly to whisper a “finally,” against his lips before going back in for more, you both smiling against each other.

Seokmin

You know that electric feeling at the start of a relationship before either of you have made any sort of physical move on each other, and the air is dense with anticipation and the silence is so heavy it’s loud? A first kiss, a first anything, with Seokmin is like that. After a few first dates he invited you over to watch a movie, but movie be damned because all you could think about was the closeness between you two. His thigh touching yours, hands laying on their respective legs as if to show the other person it was there, but you’re both too chickenshit to actually initiate anything dskafgdhsjf eventually he brushes his fingers against yours and you accept him and let your hands interlock. It’s only 30-seconds later that he makes the bold move of wrapping an arm around your shoulders and pulling you just slightly more towards him. Somehow feeling starved for touch you connect your free hand with his, and he instantly rubs his thumb against  your skin in appreciation. When the movie finishes he reaches for the remote to shut the TV off and the two of you sit there in silence, hands still together and you cuddled into him. He shifts a little which causes you to shift a little and now you’re looking at each other. He releases his hand from yours and pulls you in by your chin to kiss you. You both smile into the kiss and have to pull away because you’re laughing, and giddy, and elated, and relieved that you can both start loving on each other how you’ve always wanted.

Dino

If I’ve learned anything about SVT it’s that they will not let Dino live peacefully. You’re at a party together, maybe a few drinks in, dancing and enjoying each other’s company. The other members presumed that since your relationship is exclusive now, that the two of you have surely kissed already. Dino hadn’t said anything otherwise, but it’s because he’s embarrassed he hasn’t been able to make a move. He knew you were special and he wanted to savor every moment, leading to him taking this agonizingly slow. The members being none the wiser, tease the two of you (ahem: Dino) at the party, stupidly chanting for the two of you to kiss, clinking on glasses, slapping him on the back, stuff like this. He was already grabbing your waist from dancing and was now acutely aware of your closeness. He could smell your perfume, connect the dots of your freckles, and watch as your eyes moved to his lips, jumpstarting his heart. Fueled by this, the vodka, and the chiding of his 12 brothers, he closed the gap, sealed the deal, and shamelessly kissed you like a man starved. After the party when he came to his senses, he profusely apologized to you, going off about how he imagined your first kiss differently, and how he didn’t want you to feel uncomfortable. You just smiled and pulled him in for another kiss, telling him that your first  kiss stemming from the goading of the other members was perfectly on brand.

[littleonixel]

Tag your THE MOST CLOSEST MUTUALS you ever met, let then know how strong you love them.

Love is in air❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

I have no idea but @flairya

Bro took care of my child for three days lol

BUT I LOVE YOU CONTENT SM FLAIRYA AND YOUR MY LITERAL INSPIRATION TO KEEP GOING LIKE ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS AND I LOVE YOU SM 💜💜💜💜💜💜✨✨✨✨✨💖💖💖💖💖💕💕💕💕💕

Decided to tag more, why? Because yes

@mary-games-and-arts @nacora-najita @toast-art @shinymc @izzy0622

I LOVE ALL OF YOU GUYS AS WELL, YOUR CONTENT IS THE BEST OF THE BEST AND I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'LL DO WITHOUT Y'ALL PLEASE- 💓💓💖💖💕💕✨💓💓💜💖💓💜💓💕💓💖💓💜💕💜💖💜💕💖💜💖💜💕💜✨✨💖💜💓💜💓💕💓✨💜💜

[daydadahlias]

LASHTON i love ur lashton stories sm (but u know that obviously)

im glad ur doing good, i was worried bc you didn’t post as much as usual

im fine, i just ate some french toast but i have to do my hw now and study for a test tomorrow :( chemistry is so fun but also rly hard

chemistry is actually my mortal enemy.

and ive missed writing lashton!! with the exception of Bite Marks it's been a HOT minute. cant wait to write some gratuitous luke descriptions <33

and im just not posting as much bc im a busy bee here lately irl! but im still around!! enjoying all the content <33 listening to 5sos5 non stop <33 reading fics as bedtime stories, u know how it be

[saewokhrisz]

Okay rq idk if you like Sombra or not but I really need someone to ramble too and your the only overwatch account that I actually feel comfy talking to about my rambles so like- ksjahfjkldsa- Either way I freaking ADORE Sombra I think shes such a cool character and her abilities are some of my favorites in the game, shes my second main for DPS (First being Tracer who I could also ramble about for hours- Including about how I think Tracer and Sombra are AuDHD solidarity buddies but eitherway) and even before I started playing ow2 and only knew her from the cinematics she was one of my most favorite characters <3 I have so many headcanons about her like how I think she would be able to drink at least HALF if not more of the Overwatch crew under the table (Exluding specifically Moira and Rein) and how I think she hates pancakes AND french toast because their both gross (She tolerates waffles but if she could choose to not have them she would) Also I think her lore is SO interesting and I really wish they would explore it more cause there's so many ways her story could go that her Cinematic and Character Trailer just didn't explain- We know next to nothing about her except for what we see in game (Which isn't much) and the lil its of stuff with her videos n stuff-- I want them to explore her and show us more about her as seasons go on especially with the supposed new PVE stuff coming in eventually-- I just want a PVE thing with a story line based around her :(-- Idk if there's any comics for her like there are others mostly because I haven't gotten around to reading the comics but I will eventually-- ALSO I LOVE HOW SNARKY SHE IS!! Her personality is so fun and I adore her!! I like how she has this front up to make people hate her but also clearly has soft spots for certain people (Expecialy Talon Members (Mostly Sigma)) and how despite how much she pretends to dislike someone there's always SOME sorta interaction that just shows its a front and its I just adore her <3!! I wish I knew more about her family and how she felt I cant seem to find any good fanfics that I would enjoy reading about her which always makes me sad and I feel like a lot of the fandom really mischaracterize her (At least mischaracterize what I see of her) which is the absolute worst--

tracer and sombra are just adhd vs autism respectively for me so very very real

i think sombra is SUPER COOL i love her sm but i cannot play her for shit (skill issue) so i never do dshndfjgds,i love her personality and voice sm, and her dynamic with sigma makes me WEEP :((((( i havent really read into many works with her but i always enjoy seeing fanart of her and the such, and i really cant wait for pve so we can all get more content of our faves cuz the ow team is literally starving all of us its UNREAL

there is a comic with sombra and zarya, albeit more zarya centric, called "Searching" so have fun anon !!!! i personally didnt read it yet tho

[u1travi0lett]

would you do fluff with colin? maybe baking with him and he keeps getting flour all over himself and he’s just a big soft dork? i miss him 🥺

An: Ofc! Colin is honestly the biggest softie ever and I honestly miss him sm. Sorry I replied to your ask so late!! I’ve been sooo busy with school and stuff lately and haven’t had the time too write :((

Absolutely Smitten • C.Z

Colin Zabel x fem!reader

Type: tooth rotting fluff

Warnings: non pure fluff

Plot: Colin being an absolute attention seeking dork, challenges you to a bake off to prove himself as ‘the master baker’. You both know he’s useless at baking but he’s adorable for trying.

!NOT PROOF READ!

She rested her head heavily upon his chest. The tips of her fingers curling around the loose fabric of his shirt, an attempt to snuggle closer to him. He held one arm loosely around her waist, the other gently stroking her hair. The tv in the background remained on a low volume as an episode of cake wars aired. Neither of them were really watching it, only paying attention during the particularly funny parts.

„I bet your ass I could bake a better cake than that.” Colin stated, gesturing towards the slightly lob-sided cake presented on the screen.

Y/n, knowingly, let out a slight chuckle at his remark. He couldn’t even toast bread without burning it never mind bake a cake!

„Mrs Zabel,” he huffed, noticing the slight sarcasm within her laugh „are you seriously doubting my amazing baking skills?”

She turned slightly, coming face to face with her husband. He was pouting heavily, acting as if he was seriously wounded by her reaction. He looked too adorable, like a little lost puppy.

„Awe baby,” She cooed, pinching his cheek softly. „of course I’m not.”

He rubbed his face against the palm of her hand, an indication he wanted further contact. Y/n began to caress his cheek softly, she rubbed her thumb in an up and down motion as her palm remained firmly cupping his rosy cheeks.

„however…” she continued „baking isn’t really your strong suit.”

He jolted back, breaking contact with his lover. His lips formed in the shape of an ‘o’ and his expression showed he was very clearly offended by his wife’s comment.

„how do you know if baking not my ‘strong suit’ or not?” He questioned, his arms now firmly locked into a cross position.

„well, I mean…last time we made cookies they didn’t turn out too good.” She giggled, recalling the time they both tried to bake chocolate chip cookies and failed miserably, burning them all to a crisp.

Colin chuckled at the reminder, yet he was still certain he could redeem himself within the baking region.

„I say we should have a bake off!” He suggested, scooting closer to his lover „it’s the only way I can prove to you my amazing baking skills. I’m wayyy better than last time, trust me. I’ve been practicing.”

Y/n pulled a face at her husbands suggestion. She knew almost definitely that Colin hadn’t been baking. Most of the time he was way too busy with work to do anything other than sleep in his spare time. He was always left so exhausted from working almost 11 hour days 5 to 7 days a week.

„what does the winner get?” she queried, warming up to the idea.

„A kiss.” He puckered his lips jokingly, leaning as close to y/n as possible.

She placed her hand between his lips and hers just before they could make contact, she then pushed his face away. He pouted at the action and looked down at his lap.

„that’s no fun.” She stated, clearly not impressed with the prize of the competition.

„but I thought you loved my kisses.” He sniffles, pretending to cry.

„Colin…” she reached out, placing her index and middle finger on the very tip of his chin, bringing his face up so they were now making eye contact. „of course I do.”

She leaned in planting a soft, quick kiss onto his rosy lips, they tasted like microwave popcorn and coffee, just as they always did on tv nights, perfect.

Colin’s loving smile instantly re-appeared as their lips parted. He was clearly very content with the little kiss they had shared.

„so if winner doesn’t get a kiss, then what do they get?” He questioned, burying his face into the crook of his lovers neck.

„how about, the winner get too…” she trailed off, a million different possible answers crossing her mind. „Gets too…order the other person around for 24 hours straight! The looser can’t say no to anything the winner says!”

Colin removed his face from her neck and nodded. „thats actually a really good idea.” He noted, wrapping his arms around her waist ever so carefully.

All of a sudden, he swung her onto his lap. This came to no surprise to y/n as Colin was always doing little things like that. Although, he hated to admit it, he’s the undoubtedly clingy one within the relationship, always needing to be making contact when together, whether in public or not.

„So angel,” He smiled lovingly, carefully brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “we gonna get to baking, or what?”

Y/n let out a small squeal as Colin unexpectedly shifted beneath her, picking her up bridal style, his strong arms carrying her reliably as she clung onto the loose fabric of his shirt. She was absolutely petrified that he was going to drop her but she knew deep down he wouldn’t let that happen, he cared too much.

A sigh of relief escaped her lips as he set her down upon the kitchen counter, his hands still lingering around her waist as hers remained clinging to his shirt. He let out a soft chuckle at the horror still prominent on her face.

„did you really think I’d drop my prize possession?” Colin chuckled, planting a soft, warm kiss upon his lovers forehead.

Y/n laughed, hitting her husband playfully on the shoulder as she did so, scolding him for his previous behaviour.

He pouted jokingly at her and then instantly sprang into action, rummaging through the cupboards and retrieving all of the ingredients and equipment you would need to assemble a cake. Y/n watched in awe as he did so, swinging her legs to the non existent music playing.

She hopped down from the countertop once everything was lay out. Colin stood proudly in-front of the kitchen island, studying each piece of equipment while trying to figure out what do with it next. Y/n snook up behind him in this moment, wrapping her arms around his torso and resting her head upon his shoulder. He smiled at the action, nestling his hot cheek against hers.

„What next mrs Zabel?” He whispered softly, the heat within his breath prominent as it hit her cheek.

She blushed at the sudden intimacy of the situation. Although her and Colin were married and had been dating for many year prier she still couldn’t help but get nervous around him sometimes. He was just too perfect to be true.

„well erm…” she started „i can’t help you Mr Zabel, I mean this is a competition after all.” she smiled smugly, removing her arms from around his waist and abandoning him at his counter.

He sulked at her reply but then got to work not soon after, as did y/n. She found this task to be as simple as an easy morning breeze, she was used to baking and found she was rather good at it. While Colin was at work she found herself feeling lonely without him around, so she turned to hobbies. Many of them didn’t work out, or only lasted a short amount of time but baking wasn’t one of them. It was one of the very few that actually worked out, it was something she truly enjoyed and found passion in doing. Plus it kept Colin happy as he just couldn’t resist a home baked good once getting home from work.

Y/n worked at her mixture slowly, making sure every ingredient had mixed accordingly. She looked over her shoulder to see a frustrated Colin, his hair sticking up and his cheeks streaked with flour. She let out a slight giggle at the sight of him. Once the mixture was ready she removed the spatula, licking the excess contents of batter upon it before tossing it aside. She gently brushed the flour that clung onto her clothing away and then walked over to Colin.

Once again, she wrapped her arms around his waist but this time she placed a kiss onto the back his head as she did so. The notable tenseness within his posture relaxed at her touch. Colin felt a smile appear upon his face at the presence of his wife. He spun around, placing his hands on her shoulders causing their eyes to meet.

Y/n couldn’t help but laugh, I mean her husband did look ridiculous. His hair messy and sticking up while he had flour smeared across his face and batter trailing down his clothes.

She smiled lovingly at his adorableness, the love she had for this man was so powerful it made her heart swell. She leant in placing two loving kisses upon both cheeks, removing some of the flour from them as she did so. He blushed slightly at the contact, turning his face away in embarrassment.

She leant over his shoulder, scanning over the chocolate cake batter he had managed to create. Surprisingly, it didn’t look too bad, not too bad at all. It looked to be perfectly measured into the tin and the consistency looked to be almost perfect. She smiled, maybe Colin was right about being a master baker.

„We gonna get these baked then Mrs Zabel?” He asked, a soft loving smile held on his face as he spoke.

She nodded, scurrying her way over to her counter to retrieve her tin of batter. Once she did so she carefully placed it into the oven along with Colin’s.

„ how long til these baby’s are cooked?” He queried, wrapping his arms around his lovers waist and pulling her closer to him, leading her body to be now firmly pressed up against his.

„well google says around 30 minutes to an hour so.” She shrugged, resting her forehead on his chest.

„so you think we’ll have time for cuddles?” He pouted hopefully, his deep brown eyes bore into hers as he spoke.

“I’d say so.” She chuckled softly, a huge smile appearing on Colin’s face.

He instantly scooped her up into his arms. However, this time she wasn’t squealing due to his suddenness, she snuggled closer to him as he carried her to the couch. He lay her down carefully, then retreating to their shared bedroom to retrieve a blanket for them both.

He gently draped the blanket over her form, tucking her in before sliding in behind her. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer to him as he nestled his face into her hair. She hummed in content as he did so, her hands entwined with his which sit comfortably on her lower stomach. They lay in harmony in each-others arms, completely in peace in that moment.

„did I ever mention how much I love you, y/n” he whispered softly, his voice like a soft melody to her ears.

She let out a soft giggle at his words, shifting within his grasp as she turned to face him. „you tell me literally every day Colin” she replied.

„that’s still not enough.” He chuckled softly.

He then began attacked her with little kisses, peppering her with them as he repeated under his breath ‘I love you’ over and over.

“I love you too.” She finally replied, causing Colin to stop attacking her face with mini kisses.

She pressed a loving, warm kiss onto his soft yet noticeably chapped lips. He melted within her touch, his hand making it’s way to her cheek as he let the kiss linger a little while longer. They both decidably pulled apart, their hearts racing and their breaths hitched.

Y/n collapsed into her husbands frame, only just realising how exhausted she was from all of their previous shenanigans. Colin lay his head upon hers as hers rested upon the centre of his chest. He wrapped his arms lovingly around his wife, slowly rubbing her back comfortingly with the palm of his hands. He began tracing little circles on the centre on her back, causing her to fall deeper into a sleepy trance.

She looked up at her husband, who returned the glance mutually. A sleepy smile painted upon his angelic face as he gazed upon her, he was obviously extremely tired too.

Y/n let out a deep yawn.

„it’s okay baby, if your tired go to sleep.” He advised, his voice soft as velvet as he spoke.

„Only if you promise to get out the cakes.” she murmured into his chest. „don’t let them burn”

„I won’t.” He chuckled softly „now get some sleep angel.”

Colin pressed a loving kiss onto the top of his lovers for head and snuggled closer to her. She instantly felt herself fall into slumber as she lay there, her eyes heavy and her mind blank. The only remaining thought rattling her mind her husbands pure beauty.

Although, Colin was meant to retrieve the cakes from the oven, he fell asleep shortly after y/n did. Leaving the cakes to bake for around 2 and a half hours. He only woke up due to the smell. Realising that he did indeed burn the baked goods once again. Maybe baking wasnt for him after all.

—

an: sorry this imagine sucks so bad I had no idea how to end it and half way through lost passion for it 😭

[canonicallysoulmates]

Last year, I did a post looking back at some of the j2 moments 2019 and the 2010’s decade had given us, this year with it being so shit and so many of us needing some cheering up I thought I’d do a 2020 version.

So before we say fuck off to 2020 here are some of the j2 moments this year has given us:

SM isn’t everything but it’s still cute when the boys interact with each other online and the year actually started with it, with both boys liking each other’s New Year’s pictures with their kiddos:

X

Those weren’t the only SM interactions, on a more recent example by which I mean December they had this cute little exchange under a pic Jared posted were he was sleeping:

XX

And Jensen liked this cute pic of his smiling boy:

XX

Of course nothing compares to the best SM moment of the year: Jared’s beautiful, emotional, touching, heartfelt birthday message for Jensen 🥺:

And Jensen’s reply ❤:

X

Before everything went under lockdown we got one convention, among the moments we got from it were:

- Jared talking about his birthday post to Jensen, calling Jensen his boy and saying that he has pictures of him and Jensen just hanging out on his phone

full gifset

- Fist bump

- And a hug

full gifset

To me one of the best j2 moments 2020 gave us was the release of this amazing EW photoshoot that I will forever be in love with (especially this cover I will never be over this cover) 😍

This photoshoot was the gift that kept on giving! Not only did we get beautiful new photos of the boys, but we also got some amazing content from the bts like

full gifset

Look at them! The way Jensen closes his eyes and leans into Jared, the way they look at each other this is what love looks like people! 🥰 Find someone who will look at you like how j2 look are looking at each other in that gif. 

And even the accompanying interview gave us a little something with Jared saying that he burrowed strength from Jensen when he was struggling with the job

Padalecki, 37, who’s been vocal about his struggle in the early seasons, says. “I borrowed strength from Jensen.” x

And this is barely the tip of the iceberg I’m just providing some examples of what that photoshoot gave us but it was a feast!

Summer seemed to be the never ending dry spell, many wondered ‘will we ever get j2 content again?’ and the answer was...yes!

Starting with a little interview the boys did with small moments such as

full gifset

And Jensen confirming he and Jared still live near one another.

When Jensen appeared for the second time on Rosenbaum’s podcast he spend a good part of it being fond over Jared and making them sound totally married sharing a story about Jared’s preferred breakfast burrito and how he and Jared have bickered over it and of course starting of the panel by making it clear covid or no covid him and Jared would be making out:

full gifset

The boys had a joint virtual Q&A panel filled with moments, they were joking around, they made each other laugh, and it all started with Jensen saying how handsome Jared looked.

When filming wrapped up Jared and Jensen had their own celebration with dinner and champagne at one of their favorite restaurants:

"Jared and I wrapped on Thursday, and Saturday night he and I went to one of our all-time favorite restaurants, just us, and toasted with some champagne," Ackles says. x

Those two can’t get enough of each other so they road tripped part of the way home together!

“He and I just drove together all of our stuff across the border. So, we drove up together for season 1 and we drove away together for season 15.” - Jensen in the Chelsea Davis interview

Jared mentioning their road trip during a TVLine interview & during a TVInsider interview 

With Supernatural coming to an end a lot of interviews took place and provided us with content:

The Talk interview gave us a married moment, when the boys were asked who had the messier dressing room Jensen replied Jared did to which Jared literally went no sir, no sir. 

The CNN interview had the boys admitting not working together will be an adjustment with Jensen saying “So, it will be different, and that’s probably when he and I will call each other and be like, ‘I miss you so much!’” as well as this moment  "Oh, I thought you meant we fell in love," Ackles quips."We fell in love, too," Padalecki jokes. When I add that plotline was only in fan fiction, Ackles retorts, "Or was it?" Padalecki erupts in laughter. "There it goes the internet."

In an interview with Chelsea Davis Jensen once again brought up that him and Jared will be contacting each other from their new shows

“Jared said it, he’s like I don’t think it’s really gonna set in until we walk unto the set of some other show. But that’s fine cause then we’ll just turn around and call each other and be like ‘what’s your show like?’”

Jared having a little fond moment over Jensen during one of the TVline segments

Jensen saying that 15yrs ago him and Jared got on a rollercoaster (Supernatural) and that he couldn’t have asked for a better partner:

full gifset

Jared comparing him and Jensen finishing the show to the time they ran the Seattle Marathon together (yes, the marathon they ran together and crossed the finish line holding hands) 😭❤: 

“There were a lot of tears all over but Ackles and I were looking at each other like, ‘Man’. It was kind of like finishing the Seattle Marathon. We did it. Dude, we did it, you know? We put in the work…I’ve been with you for 15 years, 15-½ years. I’ve seen you sweat. I’ve seen you bleed. I’ve seen you hurt. I’ve seen you going through stuff personally and put it aside for this show, for your character and I know I’ve done the same and it was bittersweet.”  x

Jensen talking about his and Jared’s Impala’s in the USA Today interview

Ackles says he was “floored” by the gift: “And it's cool, because now Jared and I can just drag-race around Austin.”

“If we get pulled over, it'd be like, ‘Don't worry. FBI Agent Robert Plant,’" Padalecki adds.

“We've got FBI badges in the glove box,” Ackles confirms.

The last virtual panel of the year was Jared’s and it was full of love for Jensen; Jared mentioned him often, unprompted he shared the story of when the twins were born and how hectic it was for him and Jensen to return to Austin in time for their birth honestly hearing him talk about it it’s clear how important that day was for him too and it’s just so sweet, he said him and Jensen will definitely work together again and he hopes it’ll be sooner rather than later, also said Jensen has a standing invitation to do whatever he wants on Walker, and implied he’s already looked at his schedule to see if he could make it up to Toronto where Jensen will be working in 2021. 

And these are just some moments; I know that with everything going on and time losing all meaning it might have seemed like we had a j2-less year but as you can see that’s not true cause not even a pandemic or this hellish year were able to stop or dim the beauty that is j2 and their relationship. 

This men make me so ridiculously happy, and with this being such a hard year for all of us, for some more than others, it makes me all that extra grateful for them and to them for bringing a smile to my face. I hope that with this post they will bring a smile to yours. I personally am looking forward to seeing what j2 goodies 2021 gives us, I’m hopeful there’ll be plenty, our boys have new projects coming out, God willing cons will be able to pick up again in a safe way, and there’ll be even more j2 content to enjoy. 

Until then, stay safe, take care of yourselves, and Happy New Years my fellow tinhats! ❤

[tartagliaxx]

That’s such an adorable and cute event 🥺 could I pls request Albedo and gardenia? I love myself some good wholesome drama... thank you sm in advance!

“ ALBEDO + GARDENIA ”

━━ ☆ PAIRING: albedo/reader

━━ ☆ GENRE: fluff

━━ ☆ SUMMARY: gardenia | purity, gentleness, untold love, "you're lovely"

━━ ☆ WARNINGS: none

he wouldn't quite call it a pastime but albedo has found himself spending increasing amounts of time seeking your face amongst the crowd. there was no logical explanation for his deep desire to know more about you and your quite frankly, mundane ways that were no different than the ones he had already observed in the past. albedo supplied a simple answer to the query of 'why' and that is because you carry a unique splendor no matter how menial the task was.

albedo saw faint traces of glitter at the arms of the people you touched, leaving them with a sense of security that came with your warmth. he also observed the golden dust that fleeted around the air whenever you laugh, effortlessly dragging others in your round of glee. inherently thirsty over shimmering things, albedo wasn't surprised to see that people loved to be around you. he was stumped though when he found out that you didn't quite realize the effect you had on so many. he still remembers the way you averted your gaze, hand reaching to fiddle the hem of your crisp white blouse, as you denied amber's claims. it never fails to bring a tender smile out of him, enjoying the one-eighty turn of your usually enthusiastic demeanor.

shaking away the sudden lapse in his focus, he carefully stored his sketchbook away and anyone who truly knew him would know that the white leather-bound book was something he held very dear to his heart. it was so dear, in fact, that he had not allowed anyone to catch even the quickest glimpse of its valued contents.

"mr. albedo?" he blinked, not expecting to receive anyone but welcoming her regardless in his cramped office by the corner of the headquarters.

"sucrose," he nodded in greeting. "may i help with anything?"

"oh no! i'm not here for that. i just came to drop by this package. someone left it by the crafting table and it's addressed to you."

now that was a surprise. he muttered a quick 'thanks' to sucrose who mumbled something incorrigible in reply. before he could ask what it was,  he was once again left on his own devices with nothing but the mysterious box to accompany him.

"curious." albedo absentmindedly spoke as keen eyes looked over the perfectly packaged item. without much of a reluctance, he reached for his trusty box cutter that ironically never saw much use until today.

the first thing that greeted him was the fragrant scent of sweet chocolate and toasted marshmallows and when he finally uncovered the plastic lid that seemed to contain it, his first instinct was to chuckle. the soft white pillows dipped in chocolate were stylized to resemble rabbits. his mind immediately went to klee who would surely love to see the adorable little work of art. perhaps, he'd save some for her.

he tipped his head to the left where he spotted a sunshine-colored piece of parchment that was folded neatly in half. tentatively, he unfurled the paper, allowing his eyes to dance around the curves of the beautifully written note.

'good morning! good luck with your work today. i'm not sure if you like chocolate but i hope that the sweets i made you would help keep your energy running.'

subconsciously, he traced over the figure in the corner — a hastily scrawled-out flower — and allowed the scent of the ink to linger on his gloved hands. he hoped that whoever it was that cared enough to voice their concern had signed their name so he could send his warmest thanks.

"sweet," he noted as he popped one of the bite-sized pieces in. if you observed well enough, you just might spot the giddy smile that subtly graced his lips. for some reason, he had a good feeling about this.

you rocked on your heels back and forth, attention on margaret, who was raving about another one of their specialty drinks, wavering because you were far too concerned about spotting a certain girl's face.

"sucrose!" you called out in glee, muttering a quick apology to margaret who merely shooed you off with an exasperated smile. "did you hand it over to him?"

"hmm? oh yes. but..." sucrose trailed off and you nodded once to encourage her to speak. "do you know whoever sent it?"

a squeak involuntarily slipped from your lips, "n-no! i told you i just saw it there and i was scared something important would break."

thankfully, sucrose seemed to be oblivious to the way your voice shook, nerves leaking rapidly in the form of stutters. with a quick shake of her head, she dismissed herself from the conversation, muttering about a new version of sweet flowers that was coming along quite well.

with a relieved sigh, you all but fell to your knees, a hidden weight finally being removed from your shoulders. who would've known that looking after someone who couldn't be bothered to look after themself would be so nerve-racking?

the following day, albedo blinked in surprise when he found another one of the parcels on his desk. with as much intrigue as he had yesterday, he once again fished out the box cutter he had carelessly tossed away after use. a part of him hoped that he'd get the same treats (they were an absolute delight in both taste and appearance. he even had klee agreeing with him) but he wasn't opposed to trying something new.

this time, it was a blossom-shaped strawberry shortcake. he took a minute to admire the wonderful aesthetics before unfurling the letter that was somehow the better part of it all. just as before, you forego the traditional 'with love' or 'sincerely' salutations in exchange for a single doodle of a flower.

'i'm hoping that you liked my little gift. truth be told, i was second-guessing myself. i'm not too sure if i'm bothering you but i told myself that i might as well send this one to you since i already had it made. anyway, i hope you have a great day ahead of you!'

albedo didn't know how he'll get to tell you that your little parcels of joy were not a bother. in fact, it was arguably the highlight of the past two days seeing as the experiment he was working on had been going quite awry. in the end, he settled on placing the box back at the crafting table, the container now empty and the note replaced with one of his.

when you spotted the familiar box by timaeus' alchemy corner, you were sure your soul left your body. hastily grabbing it before heading home, you were relieved to see that he did eat the dessert (and enjoyed it seeing as there was an obvious lack of crumbs). what made you particularly happy, however, was the fine print pressed on a page torn from a knights' of favonius officially issued notepad.

'thank you for your gifts. i don't know how to properly express my appreciation but rest assured that you are not a bother. again, thank you, and have a great evening.'

at the bottom of the note was a crossed-out pile of messily written letters that you made out to be 'hi and thank you from klee'. with an amused huff, you leaned back, fully relaxing against the foam of your chair. it was truly a great note to end the night with.

for the next few weeks, your conversations with albedo continued. along with a daily dose of sugar came your good morning greeting and a random fact about yourself. albedo found out that the flower you drew at the end of your notes was a half-hearted attempt on a gardenia. when you told him that, he tore an extra page from his notepad to draw a step-by-step instruction which he was pleased to see you followed with great care on next morning's note. right by his desk laid a crumpled pile of papers that all read 'gardenias suit you well.' he decided that it was too soon and too affectionate for his liking and so he kept that thought to himself.

it was unlike him to be so... impulsive but he hoped to catch you in the act of dropping your package by the crafting table. however, by the time he arrived, the package was already there. with a disappointed sigh, he went to pick up the box himself as opposed to having timaeus or sucrose deliver it to him. before he could take another step forward, he caught a whiff of vanilla and cinnamon. albedo froze, seeing you smile shyly as you apologized for running into him, leaving him to wallow in his stupor without much of a second thought.

you smelled nice, was the one sensible thing he managed to cough out of his clouded daze. albedo decided to hurry back to his office, determined to immortalize the angelic look you gave him in pure happenstance. when he did arrive though, he wondered if he should pay attention to his mystery sender first. quickly crossing over pros and cons, he picked up his trusty box cutter, now true to its name, and slid it along the taped flaps.

to say that he almost fainted when he caught the addicting aroma was no understatement. there with an out-of-character flush on his face as albedo decided that he loved the scent of vanilla and cinnamon.

you skipped to the alchemy table, the night being past what you would call to be young. as always, the unassuming box laid over the cobblestone floor of the square and you gingerly took it to your grasp. when you did open it, you saw something amiss: a white leather-covered book that you always saw albedo carrying around. curiously, you flipped it open only to almost drop it in shock as you saw your beautifully captured portrait on every single one of the pages. you couldn't help but giggle when you realized that the rare times you were around albedo in person were all remembered by the pages of the book. with a flattered smile, you scrolled to the last page where you saw earlier's interaction along with a finely pressed gardenia flower.

"gardenias suit you well." you read aloud with a poorly hidden smile that screamed of the current state of your heart: racing, happy, and driven absolutely wild.

from the corner, hidden perfectly by the shadows cast by the moon, albedo mirrored your smile, listening as you corrected his past self noting that gardenias didn't suit you alone but you two together.

━━ ☆ NOTES: ah... such a wholesome idea. thank you so much for joining in the event and i hope you liked it as much as i did! view the rest of the event shorts here! 💐

[elefics]

torment / chapter 5

A/N: I’ve barely proofread this, sorry if it’s a little wack (also the ending is a bit rushed, I ran out of motivation lmao). Thank you for the love on this fic!!! I appreciate it sm :’))

word count: 2.8k

The café was practically empty. Streetlights shone in from the sidewalk outside. There was one bald man guy behind the counter, who took orders and cooked all at the same time. When the cook called me sweetheart with a leering grin, Michael’s hand snaked around my waist protectively. I liked the feeling.

A few yawning men stumbled in occasionally for coffee, but other than them, we were alone in our booth by the window. The light inside was warm, casting Michael’s features in gold. I couldn’t take my gaze away for a second.

Michael ordered the French toast. I went with pancakes. We sipped coffee in contented silence for a while, before he finally spoke.

“I know you feel weird around me. Why didn’t you say anything to them?” Michael asked, tilting his head slightly. I thought of Cordelia and the way she crumpled to the ground earlier.  

“To cover for you. Take some heat off.” I replied instinctively.

“Cover what? What do you think is going on?” His eyes darkened.

I shrugged. “I know something’s going on. I know there’s more to you. I just haven’t figured it out yet.” I waited for him to explain; I was tired of guessing.

He hesitated, tearing at the corner of his napkin and biting the corner of his lip.

“I need you to tell me, Michael. If I know what’s happening, I can protect you.” I said, meaning every word of it.

He smiled softly, grateful. “There’s just too much to explain,” He sighed. ��I don’t know how to.”

“Michael Langdon, prince of debonair, doesn’t have the right words?” I teased.

He rolled his eyes. I spotted a tiny tremble in his fingers as they interlocked with mine across the table.

“How about we start with questions. How goddamn old are you?” I asked, smiling. I was getting sick of my own voice asking the same question, over and over.

“It’s complicated. I don’t age like...you.” Spotting my confused look, he continued. “I don’t age in human years. I guess I’m something like twenty, but I feel…ancient.” He sighed with the weight of a thousand years on his breath.

Maybe it was the nerves, but I burst out laughing. Michael’s brow furrowed, and I saw his walls going up right in front of me.

“No, no, Michael I’m sorry. Human years?” I asked.

“This is stupid. I can’t.” His jaw clenched as he stared out the window. I watched a nerve in his temple jump as he avoided looking at me.

I said, leaning my head closer to force him to look at me. “Hey, I have all night. I’m here.”

“I think it’ll be easier if I show you. Can I?” He asked, taking my hand in his warm ones.

I nodded slowly, my pulse racing. His skin seared against mine, but I refused to pull away. Michael closed his eyes and exhaled slowly through his nose. In seconds, I sunk through the ground into darkness.

Through the murky blackness, I saw a small child, covered in blood.

I heard a deep voice whisper, snake-like, behind his ear: kill, kill, kill. I saw dead animals across the child’s bedroom floor, and how he used their insides like finger-paint. I felt his ears burning, then pure rage. I felt the sticky warmth of the priest’s blood on his hands.

I felt the stares of other kids his age prickling the back of his neck, the feeling of being watched like a tiger in a cage. I felt his bones crack and stretch, aging a decade overnight. I felt the ache in his chest when his grandmother feared him. I felt his fathers abandon him, his birth mother ignore him. I felt the terror, the longing for guidance. I felt the darkness creeping in when he was lost, when he felt he had nowhere else to turn. I felt a void.

Then, I felt the searing heat of the dark room, and heard the circling crows outside, as the hooded people came. I felt sleep in his eyes as he stumbled down the stairs. I felt how their admiration made his heart soar. I felt how he finally, almost, maybe…belonged.

When Michael let go of my hand, I snapped back into reality. My breaths came panicked and hard, and I felt tears sliding down my nose. “What was that?” I asked shakily.

“I’m not normal. Not human. My father – he’s bigger than all of that.” Michael’s expression was blank, assessing my every movement.

“Michael, who is your father?” I asked, staring at the table.

“You won’t like it.” He whispered, staring at his cutlery. He didn’t look up.

“What is he?” I asked again, tears beginning to blur my vision.

“Satan.”

Dread filled my insides. Before I could cry or scream or recoil, I summoned that blue light inside me again, filling myself with calm. I tried to keep a level head, for Michael’s sake. I could see his bottom lip trembling and his eyes darting across my face frantically. He needed me right now.

“Are you afraid?” He asked quietly.

“No.” I replied slowly. It was a lie, but I didn’t want it to be.

“I know you are. This is stupid. I shouldn’t have told you that. I really shouldn’t-” Michael was spiralling.

“Miriam,” I said softly, pieces falling into place in my memory. “She’s who you lived with, after your family left?” I asked.

He paused, then smiled and nodded. “She’s the best.”

Talking about Miriam seemed to put him at ease. I was suddenly very aware that he likely had tenfold the power I had and could snap my spine clean in half, if he felt so inclined. Maybe it was a good idea to keep our conversations light. But I couldn’t help myself – I was standing on the edge of the cliff, and I wanted to jump. I had to know what Michael was and break him down to pieces, make sense of every part.  

“And she’s a…Satanist?” I asked, trying to keep my tone level and respectful.

“They just have a bad reputation. It’s about freedom, and choice. It’s about not setting limits and constraints on yourself. Everything is within your reach.” He murmured, lining my fingertips up with his.

An image problem. That’s what the issue was, according to Michael. I knew a little about religion – enough to know what this boy was and what he was designed to bring about. I swallowed fear with every gulp of oxygen.

“I need you to say it, Michael. I need to hear it.” I whispered, staring at the ground.

“I’m the Antichrist.” He said flatly. Like it was the most natural thing in the world. I guess to him, it was. He’d lived with that label, that target, on his back.

I remembered how uneasy Cordelia was around Michael, how she looked at him like he was a freak, an anomaly. If only she knew what I knew. If only she knew I was here now. Deep inside myself, wound tightly between my ribs, I felt like I was committing treason, some crime against humanity. Maybe I was, and just didn’t know it yet. My Supreme – it wasn’t Michael, at least it didn’t feel like it yet – didn’t trust this boy in front of me. But being here, talking and listening, learning about each other, I knew it couldn’t be all true. I’d felt his anguish, viscerally. I’d felt how lost he was. I knew him.

“What does that mean for you?” I asked.

“I don’t know yet. I’m supposed to bring about the end times, but I haven’t gotten my instruction manual in the mail yet.” He said bitterly.

“Is that what you want?” I asked.

His eyes met mine and I saw a flicker of panic in them. Nobody had ever asked him that before, I thought. In that moment, I saw a boy who was so deeply lost, he didn’t even know himself. I saw a boy who wanted to be good, desperately. I saw a boy with a future and destiny imposed on him, but one which he was never really sold on.

“I – I don’t know.” He replied softly. My brain buzzed with questions but was swiftly interrupted.

“Order up,” The bald cook smiled, sliding our plates in front of us. “Beautiful couple, by the way. Enjoy.”

“We’re not-” Michael and I spoke at the same time, then smiled.

Michael didn’t hesitate to dig in – all this talk of fate and apocalypse certainly hadn’t ruined his appetite.

“What about you? What shit did your parents put in your head about your future?” He changed the subject thickly through a mouthful of syrup.

“They thought I’d be a doctor or a lawyer when I was younger,” I laughed. I remembered my toy stethoscopes and the shelves of books I’d often escape into growing up. “Guess that went out the window a few years back.”

“You’re not a disappointment.” He said suddenly, eyes serious. My stomach flipped.

“Never said I was.” I smiled teasingly, but my insides warmed at his reassurance. I had a feeling it was something we both needed to hear, as much as each other.

“Where are they now?” Michael asked.

“My Dad left a long time ago. I barely know him. Mom – Mom doesn’t really talk to me anymore.” I faltered.

Michael nodded, his knee brushing mine under the table.

“Can you see into my dreams?” I asked suddenly, remembering I’d never asked. There were so many other, more important things we should have been talking about, but I had no idea where to start. It was like staring into the sun. All I could do was squint.

Michael smirked, “And change them.”

My mouth fell open. “What else?” I asked.

“I can do lots of things,” He smiled like a proud child. “There’s a lot I haven’t figured out yet, but I can feel it growing, inside me. Like a current.”

“Must be quite a feeling.” I said quietly, scraping my fork across my plate. Silence spread across the table like fog. It was a weird thing to say, and I knew it immediately. It made me look jealous and insecure. Maybe I was. But he didn’t need to hear that.

“You’re a force of nature. I like being around you.” He said simply. I didn’t know how to reply other than to smile.

Michael shifted in his seat. “What are you thinking about?”

“Can’t you hear it anyway?” I asked, rolling my eyes.

“Only when I really want to. It’s like radio static, I have to tune into it to hear clearly.”

“What else do you hear?” I asked softly.

“My father, sometimes. When he talks, it’s like I have no choice but to listen. It fills up my whole skull until I feel like it’ll burst.” He explained.

“Does he talk to you…often?” I asked nervously.

“Not really. There isn’t exactly a bring your son to work day in Hell. We don’t play baseball on Saturdays,” He said wryly, before his expression changed to something more serious. “We’re not that close.” Michael confessed.

I could tell this hurt him. After allowing me into his memories, Michael felt so much more familiar to me. I understood him, at least more than I did yesterday.

“Have you met him? Like in person?” I asked. I thought of my own father and how I’d forgotten if his eyes were brown like mine, or a deep hazel, like Mom’s.

Michael smiled, the way you would at a small child asking you to play with them. “He’s not human, Lyla. He doesn’t have a body. If I did meet him in person, I’d just feel bad for the vessel.”

That sent a prickle of cold anxiety up my spine. Vessel. Hearing him talk about people, flesh and blood human beings, as merely a means to get from point A to point B, was unsettling.

“What are you? Human? Or a vessel, too?” I pressed.

Michael smirked. His hand under the table brushed higher up my knee. I felt goose bumps spring up along the hem of my skirt. “If I was a vessel, could I do that?” His other hand reached for mine, bringing it up to his warm lips to kiss my knuckles softly. “Or this?”

“Yes, you probably could.” I sighed.

“Smart girl. Too smart for me, maybe. Only trouble comes from that.” He murmured. It seemed like a reflection to himself, like field notes on an animal he was studying in the wild.  

I wriggled in my seat, uncomfortably hot under his stare.

“You’re scared. I can hear your blood rushing.” He observed, leaning back against his booth seat. His arms hung loosely – one along the back of the seat and one by his side. God, he was pretty. But the more I looked, the more I noticed: the way his skin sunk back under his eyes, faint greyish circles of fatigue. A tiny freckle on his chin. The sharp curve of his cheekbones. Before long, I was staring back, meeting his gaze without batting an eye. We sat there for a long time in silence, drinking each other in. We weren’t even touching and somehow it was one of the most intimate things I’d ever experienced. I felt like he knew me, inside out and backwards. I felt like I was starting to know him the same way.

“Hey, lovebirds. We close in twenty. Finish your coffee before it gets cold and get out of here.” The bald man called from the kitchen, breaking the spell between us.

Michael blinked a few times, like he was seeing sunlight for the first time in days. I idly wondered what he looked like first thing in the morning, right after he woke up. He smirked like he knew.

Producing a slim black wallet from his pocket, Michael threw a fistful of bills on the table. It was way more than the cost of what we’d ordered, but before I could say anything, let alone try to pay for myself, his hand was around mine as he pulled me into the night.

We walked in silence for four blocks. I counted our steps and tried to keep my heartbeat under control. It was embarrassing that he could hear it sometimes, and that when I tried to read him, all I got was flustered.

“Thank you for paying.” I squeezed his hand after a while.

Michael frowned and shrugged, like he’d forgotten already. He pulled me closer against him, wrapping his arm around my waist. He laughed softly.

“What’s funny?” I asked.

“Nothing.” He shook his head, grinning at the pavement.

“What is it?” I whined, hoping it wasn’t me he found so comical. Like he’d finally realised I wasn’t worth it, an ‘aha’ moment, after which he’d shortly disappear into thin air like a daydream.

Michael stopped abruptly, grabbed my hands and tugged me into an alley. In one fluid movement he had me pinned against a brick wall, his body hot against my skin.

“Lyla, Lyla, Lyla.” He whispered my name like he liked how it felt on his tongue. “What am I going to do with you?” He murmured, his face so close to mine I ached to kiss him.

I stared up at him, only one thought stuck in my mind: I could stay like this forever.

“You know what I am. Why aren’t you running for the hills?” He asked tenderly.

“I don’t buy it. I don’t think you’re as bad as you say you are, as everyone thinks you are.” I said defiantly, jutting my chin up at him.

Michael smiled. “Maybe you’re not as smart as I thought, then.” He hooked his forefinger under my chin, holding my face still with his thumb.

“If you were me, what would you do?” I asked, looking directly into his icy eyes.

“I would go somewhere very, very far away, and never speak to me again.” He whispered.

“Is that what you want me to do?” I asked. His eyes grazed down my neck, then back up to my lips.

“Not at all.” He said. Then he pressed against me, kissing me hard. I thought it was impossible to get any closer, but he proved me wrong every few moments, pushing my back against the cold brick behind me. His lips were soft against mine but his tongue had total control; I was completely dizzy in his arms. His hands trailed to my waist, fingertips tracing and tugging at the stitching of my skirt. My head reclined in pleasure and he took the opportunity to pepper my neck with sloppy kisses and bites. In the shadows of the alley, I wanted all of him, and I knew in my heart he felt the same.

I knew things just got complicated. I knew they were only doomed to get worse. We were different, Michael and I, on molecular levels. I knew this was wrong and that his lips against my neck were some kind of betrayal. But in this moment, I couldn’t care about anything else if I’d tried.

 taglist (i can’t remember who asked to be on here so if you want to be added or removed let me know!): @theneverendinghunger @outpostmichael @leatherduncan @langdons-butterfly-deactivated2​ @angelicmichael @drasangel 

[cherryonigiri]

the retrospective: alice’s 1k special || lover masterlist

matchup requests: CLOSED

@renaxwrites​ asked: Congrats on 1k bby 🥳💞 can I request a matchup 👉🏼👈🏼 my mbti type is ENFP-T. My Hogwarts house is Slytherin/my Patronus is a rattlesnake! 5 words to describe me: ambitious, imaginative, passionate, loyal and sincere. I'm an art major so my hobbies are drawing, reading & playing instruments. My style depends on my mood, so it can be classy fit one day, street style the next. Fav beverage is tied between iced tea and coke. Lastly my fav team is Nekoma/Karasuno (sorry can’t choose 🥺) ty ily

AN: Rena!!! awwwwww thank you sm!!!! Lolol i have trouble choosing a favorite team too! Have a wonderful day bby! 

Your matchup is: Yaku Morisuke

How you met: You were in Russia for an art fellowship for the year, and happened to meet him through Alisa (who is a model for one of the portraits you’re creating). She introduced the two of you at a small party at her place, and two of you hit it off right away. Both of you are very ambitious and passionate about your respective careers and vibe off of having that same ambitious energy. He probably says that he’ll spot your ticket if you ever want to go to one of his games. The two of you text on and off for a while after meeting, and you take him up on his offer to watch a game every now and then.

Your first date: For one of the private new year’s galas/charity events that the Russian league holds, Yaku gets an invite to a famous art museum, with the option of bringing a plus one. He looks into what exhibits the museum has and he finds out that one of the galleries is dedicated to impressionist art, and features several pieces by an artist you’ve mentioned to him. He asks if you’d like to be his date for the night and you accept. Honestly his jaw almost hits the ground when he sees you in your outfit for the night and he honestly doesn’t pay much attention to the gala itself since he’s more than content to listen to you ramble and point out all the different paintings you love. 

Your first kiss: At the end of the gala, there are several toasts and a countdown until the start of the new year. He grabs two flutes of champagne and the two of you share a small toast and clink your glasses before taking a sip. Of course, it’s a bit cheesy but he waits until the countdown reaches zero before kissing you. The two of you start the new year surrounded by cheering, and honestly the kiss is just perfect. It’s firm yet sweet, and just the slightest bit of tongue that leaves you wanting more. When he drops you off at your door, he makes sure to kiss you a few more times before heading home. 

Anniversary: You have to return home after your fellowship ends, but the two of you, out of sheer stubbornness and devotion make long distance work (although not without a few bumps in the road.) Your first anniversary happens to fall on a night where Yaku has to play for his team - and he lets you know that he won’t be there in person. However, the night before the two of you enjoy a very long video call, and he makes it a point to ship you a beautiful Russian egg as a present +  a very sweet and heartfelt love letter. Admittedly you’re a bit mopey on the day of your actual anniversary - so you decide to be a couch potato for the day, bundling up in blankets on your couch to watch the re-run of your boyfriend’s match. You’re at the match point for the second set when you hear a knock at your door. At first you think it’s probably just a package, but when you open your door Yaku is standing there with a giant bouquet of flowers. You basically tackle him and are a complete sobbing mess bc this is the best surprise ever???? He hauled ass to get to where you were on time but it was totally worth seeing how happy you are.

How they propose: A few years down the road, you’re visiting Yaku in Russia and are in the VIP section/front row during the finals of the league tournament. You’re on the edge of your seat, they’re down to a deuce in the fifth set and you can just feel the tension as both teams struggle to score two points in a row. Finally, after making an extraordinary save, Yaku’s team manages to score that second point, sending the entire stadium into cheers. You’re jumping up and down in the stands, and the entire team is bundled up in a group hug. After the medal ceremony, Yaku’s walking around waving to fans, and his teammates all keep patting him on the back. By the time he gets to you pretty much all his teammates are casting not so subtle glances at him (much to his annoyance). The adrenaline hasn’t worn off quite yet, so before he gets too nervous he kneels down in front of you and the audience collectively gasps. He has the whole speech prepared when he proposes and you’re in tears by the time he finishes. When you nod yes he tears up before grabbing you for the tightest hug ever. 

What your wedding looks like: Decides to do two small ceremonies - one in his home country of Japan and another in your home country. It’s the perfect compromise and ensure that none of your friends have to spend exorbitant amounts of money to attend a destination wedding. The ceremonies are both intimate and small - it’s mostly close friends and family. The Nekoma alum are all there in Japan, and yoru classmates from art school are present for the ceremony that takes place in your hometown. Takes a few months off to enjoy newlywed life with you - he spends the first two months living with you in your apartment, and the months travelling around Japan with you. 

Newlywed/domestic hc: now that you’re married Yaku has zero qualms about helping you set up a studio in St. Petersburg (if you’re willing to move your career to the same country as his, if not he’ll still buy the two of you a larger apartment for when you visit). Also sugar daddy Yaku ahem n e ways even if his team isn’t based in St. Petersburg, at least he can spend his weekends and most of his off season with you. Of course, you still have to fly back and forth between continents because of all your different clients, but at the end of the day nothing beats coming home to Yaku cooking a nice pot of nabe in the kitchen. The two of you revel in your newly found domestic bliss - it’s just wonderful to finally have a shared place you both call home.