chrrychills · 2 months ago
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heya! do u think u could write about the sbg characters confessing to reader and how you think theyd do it?
i'll never love anyone the same .
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main six « confessing!
ashlyn banner:
•she acts nonchalant, but she's internally freaking out.
•she's spent days weighing the pros and cons of confessing, and it got the point taylor had to beg ashlyn to just tell you already. her crush on you was so obvious (at least to your friends) that it hurt.
•you two will spend at least five minutes sitting in complete silence until ashlyn starts talking.
•she's not great with words– we know this. but she's spent a lot of time figuring out what to say, how to convey just how she feels about you.
•ashlyn's a realistic person, she knows rejection is in the realm of possibilities and dreads the scenario of it happening.
•she's a naturally blunt person, and that doesn't change while she confesses. it's charming, in a way.
•eventually, she'll just come out and say it because the overthinking is starting to frustrate her.
•"...i like you. i have for a while."
aiden clark:
•he's either super cryptic or really forward, it just depends on how he's feeling that day.
•it's most likely a spontaneous confession– he listens to his impulsive thoughts way too much.
•if he's nervous, he doesn't show it. he's staring at you with that stupid smile like he didn't just confess to you.
•unless you're a little brain dead, you probably noticed he had a crush on you. he didn't make it super obvious, but his eyes always found yours after he made a joke, and he was basically always by your side, regardless of where you were.
•aiden's observant. if you liked him back, he knew. he didn't comment on it, but he knew.
•it wouldn't be surprising if he confessed in the middle of a conversation, which there's a 99% chance that's what'll happen.
•if you were talking, he'd cut you off with "will you be my girlfriend?"
•if he's talking, he'll absentmindedly slip it into conversation and not realize what he said until you react to it.
•"that bio homework kicked my ass... hey, will you be my girlfriend?"
ben clark:
•he's so nervous and it's so sweet. he'll plan everything out because he's a sweetheart and wants it to be perfect.
•when he invites you to hang out, he seems a bit on edge and can't look you in the eye because you're so gorgeous and he will freeze up.
•100% gets you flowers. will also get you your favorite food– better yet, he'll make it. yes, his hands are trembling when he gives them to you.
•he'll spend the entire night before drafting up the most heartwarming message you've ever read. he feels kinda bad that he can't tell you directly, so he makes sure to communicate how he feels the best he can.
•blushing the entire time you read what he wrote. starts internally freaking out while you read because he's so scared you're not gonna like it.
•is literally giddy when you accept his confession. he gives the best hugs ever, so expect one of those.
•goes into detail explaining what he likes about you (pretty much everything) and how he feels about you. if you cry easily (me) there's a good chance you'll get misty-eyed.
tyler hernandez:
•it took him a while to accept that he had feelings for you, so it'll probably take him months to even think about confessing.
•honestly, you'll probably end up confessing before he does. if you don't, though, there's gonna be a lot of unspoken tension.
•he'll end up confessing for a couple reasons. one, taylor will not stop pestering him until he does because it's so obvious you two like each other. two, he gets so fed up with all the uncertainty and tension. he hates it.
•during the actual confession, he's a mess. his face is pink and he's obviously flustered but he'll get so defensive if you point it out.
•he's lowkey fumbling over his words until eventually he just blurts it out. he thinks it's the most embarrassing thing he's ever done– you think it's sweet.
•"i'm in love with you, okay?!"
•"...shut up– stop laughing!"
•he'll be so butthurt until you assure him that you feel the same way. he's still gonna be butthurt after, but he'll be too distracted to really care.
taylor hernandez:
•taylor's really in tune with her emotions, so she'll know pretty quickly when she develops feelings for you.
•she'll give it a month or so until she confesses, just because she's nervous and she really doesn't wanna mess anything up.
•her confession would be really thought out. she'd have your favorite movie, snacks and drinks laid on her bed.
•she'll try to keep it short and sweet, but taylor has a tendency to ramble. there's a good chance she'll go off topic and you'll just sit there, smiling and listening to her talk until she realizes.
•just like her brother, her face will be pink the entire time. she won't get defensive if you point it out, since you most likely look the exact same way.
•"i've liked you for a while now, but i just didn't wanna say anything. y'know, in case i messed something up between us or you didn't wanna be friends anymore- you still wanna be friends, right?"
•you'll have to tell her you wanna be more than friends. she doesn't wanna accidentally overstep by asking.
logan fields:
•he's the type of person that will go through every possible scenario before making a decision. that's why it took him so long to confess to you– he was nervous you'd reject him.
•when he does decide to confess, the first thing he's doing is hand making a bouquet from his grandparents greenhouse. taylor helps him by asking what your favorite flowers are.
•he's also a rambler, but he doesn't go off topic. he tries to keep it simple because he doesn't want to overwhelm you, and it works! he has to physically stop himself from rambling from nerves, though.
•when you accept his confession, he's smiling from ear to ear for a good week.
•his heart melts when he sees that you've put the bouquet he made in a vase, sitting proudly on your kitchen counter.
•audibly sighs from relief when he realized you didn't reject him– and gets embarrassed when he realizes that you heard him.
lacey's notes: guys i've actually never confessed to anyone before so idk...
i'm also running on a 20 oz redbull and two hrs of sleep ignore any spelling/grammar mistakes.
...maybe i'll edit this later (no i wont)
also thank you all for 100 followers yall are crazy ilyilyily
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ameliaszahmet · 2 months ago
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Duncan , the most EVIL character in TOTAL DRAMA HISTORY- a psychological anaylsis of the narcissistic syndrome and the downfall of 3 great characters: Courtney , Gwen and Trent (and why Courtney made a list)
I want to specify something from the start. Duncan Courtney Gwen and Trent are ALL MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURITES . I just tried to make sense of this situation through a psychological point of view. Each time I analyze this it gets darker but a lot more interesting than expected. So the point is not hate them but figure them out.
I wrote this covering almost each and every aspect. courtney's sudden friendship with gwen , duncan as the one and only evil character , courtney's downfall and her list. I split this in more parts cuz it was already too long . So more parts to come .But in this one I cover their characters and their personalities
To understand better what really happened in total drama and that love triangle there is only one and ONLY ONE EXPLANATION for that . Narcissistic syndrome.
For those who don't know narcissistic syndrome refers to people who have a constant need for attention and a complete disregard of who they might be using to get that. We're not talking about someone just simply looking in the mirror we're talking about a complete painful form of abuse.
To get a better understanding of Duncan ‘s character we need to see how it all started . The first thing that Duncan did when coming to Island was flirt with whatever moved around him, torture animals and bully people. He pretty much made a point how he wants to be seen . A bully . “Being bad is cool.” He tried his luck with some girls on island :heather, lindsay , gwen , till courtney fell for it. "told you she wanted me". While for her it seemed like the best day of her life because she finally got her chance to express herself as she is without that pressure of rules and "perfect image" , for Duncan was just another usual Monday. She was so obsessed with rules ,raised to believe they are the only thing that keep her safe in society but the moment a bully showed her how to be free she accepted that immediately. She wanted to be free and Duncan offered what she wanted.
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I do follow rules , that makes me a loser , right?
With his usual taste to break the rules it is quite obvious why he was fixated on Courtney and why he didn't try to flirt with other girls when she was around. He knew that at some point she would fall for him ,cuz Courtney = rules and Duncan LIKES breaking them.He saw her as a challenge and not someone he particularly liked for herself. He dislikes rules or police or law or anything that courtney mostly takes interest in: studying, school, being a good kid etc. He had a lot of girls, specifically those that "are crazy" . "I had crazier chicks and uglier or" hey I like that in a chick. "He likes to drive them crazy for him and the attention he's getting from them and Courtney gave him that each EACH AND EVERY SINGLE TIME.
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While most of the guys have shown a particular interest for the girls they genuinely liked , like Trent for Gwen , Geoff for Bridgette , Owen for Izzy , and Tyler for Lindsay ,Duncan was the only one who tried his luck with ALL of them. Touching Lindsay's shoulder without permission, flirting with Heather the first moment he got there or flirting with Gwen later.
It is not unusual for a narcissist to use one or more victims to get their constant supply of attention and Courtney offered him plenty.
The situation changed in season 2 , especially when Courtney was not around anymore to give him that ,and Gwen's relationship with Trent was his PERFECT OPPORTUNITY to get it. He saw Gwen weak ,vulnerable during her difficult time with trent just like he saw courtney's obsession with rules as her own weakness, which made them the "perfect victims".
The sudden interest and the amount of time Duncan spent with Gwen made her confused enough about his feelings for her and Duncan knew that it would work against both her and Trent. He knew how much Trent cared about her and he used his jealousy to his advantage while turning his genuine love into a pathetic image in front of gwen. He saw this as an opportunity and not genuine interest. " Personally I would choose the money ", "I would remind you two about it when money' s divvied up" .While Trent valued her more than money and always as his first option Duncan saw her as a second option.
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idk ....duncan? Not sure herself of her choice this was the very moment Duncan understood his plan worked. She made her confused for his own gain.
He instigated the doubt between them to make their relationship fall. A narcissist doesn't care who is he using for that as long as he gets to be the centre of attention and create trouble. He doesn't care about people more than himself. Just like he didn't care what Courtney might think watching this back home and seeing him doing this to people around him without remorse.
season 2 he noticed that Gwen 's relationship with trent suffers a change for the worst so he used that to his advantage. He told in his audition tape he is "resourceful" , he adapts to many situtations. His best skills are "fake tears"as he refered in his confessional . A skill that he proved to have it from a young age " oh mom was that your favourite vase? boo hooo" It is seen through his friendship with Alejandro how easy is for them to lie to women for their own convenience and even when both Courtney and Gwen were around.
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those 2 are pretty much on the same page when it comes to seducing women without any regard of how they both feel. The main difference is one does it for the game and the other for "FUN"
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Duncan can manipulate his goodness and his badness to his own advantage .
When he saw he's losing his game with Gwen he lured her back by saving her from the leeches trying to insist he's good while he simultaneously tried to send hints to courtney by using his relationship with Gwen and trying to make her notice him . All this while he tried to prove his bad boy image for a whole season. He doesn't want to be good, he doesn't want to be seen like this. It just happens his goodness was useful for him when he wanted to prove he's bad.
In season 2 he told gwen about the stars, and how good he treats his girlfriend because he knew this very thing would ATTRACT her when she was dealing with her hard time with Trent and offered her a safe option she can pick when her relationship with trent completely falls , just like he told courtney "oh look sweetheart how cool it is to break rules but I have a "soft side "so of course I'm not gonna hurt you." He knows Gwen is a kind girl in spite of her strong appearance just like he knew courtney is weak in spite of her forceful personality. He doesn't like to be seen as nice but it is not uncommon for narcissists to use that if it's proven to be helpful in achieving their goals. Duncan pretty much like Alejandro has to analyze the situation and act according to the victim's preference. Harold is obsessed with duty and honour? then Alejandro suggests "harakiri" , Bridgette's character turned completely dependent on Geoff ? then Alejandro makes her fall for him cuz she's weak without him. Dj has a curse problem? He creates a "gold fish" fakely making him believe he is not cursed anymroe.
Duncan operates in the same way Alejandro did.
He used Courtney's weakness and love for him against her to get Gwen and he used Gwen's trust and emotional vulnerability to get Courtney. To understand why it was easy to do this to them we need to see their characters.
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For both Gwen and Courtney art is basically the only place they allow themselves to be weak
Both of them are sensitive souls who keep their feelings hidden in the hopes someone might get them one day . Gwen likes drawing , music and actual romantic stuff in spite of her dark strong goth appearance. And Courtney was the kind who never wanted other people see that she is weak , not even let them see she has a small fear or open up for a moment about her feelings ," you must be afraid of something"
"No ...nothing...."
or that her eye was hurt : " what happened to your eye girl ?" nothing! ! but it's worse.!!
" shh we don t want to let them know that. "
Her violin is the only thing she particularly feels attached to and her only safe way to actually express what she really feels. For many musicians, playing the violin is an emotional outlet and a way to express their innermost feelings. The physical closeness of the violin to the player’s body creates an intimate connection, allowing the musician to channel their emotions directly into their playing. She uses her violin to share emotions she wouldn't normally tell out loud just like Gwen creates art through her drawings revealing her deepest emotions on paper
Courtney has trouble trusting people fearing her weakness might be used against her and Duncan was the first person she completely let her guard down for. Why Duncan? She noticed he was "different". Until that" soft side episode " she did not have interest in him that much. He called her princess cuz she is spoiled not as a form of affection. that's why she hated it. She doesn't like to be reminded she has to keep up with a "perfect image" . All she wants is to be herself . Courtney mostly thought he is just a bully , just a plain bully. But the moment she saw that he has" a good side " she completely changed her mind "ohh, a bunny , wow he is nice??? " yet for him it was not something he is particularly proud of or wanted to show her. Everyone has a soft or weak or a mean side , something that Courtney and Gwen find it hard to accept .
That's for the first part. second to come.
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9leaguesofmirrors · 1 year ago
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My Favourite Reece Shearsmith Characters
So it's Reece Shearsmith's birthday today, so I decided to celebrate this by sharing some of my favourite characters played by this fantastically talented actor
These are in no particular order
Gregory Brewster - Him Indoors
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Him Indoors is a short film about a serial killer with agoraphobia. Not only is the premise very interesting, Reece delivers a chilling yet very entertaining performance as the main character. It's on YouTube if you want to watch it, which I highly reccomend you do!
Tommy - Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room
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This HAD to be on the list! Reece's performance as Tommy is heartbreaking, we watch a man seems to put-together and serious slowly fall apart and lose control of his calm façade - impeccable work
Sean Stone - Chasing Shadows
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Admittedly, I don't know where the watch the full show, but I have seen clips and I knew I had to put it on this list because of Reece's portrayal of an autistic person. You can tell he put a lot of thought and research into it in order to give a realistic performance, which is a testament to his dedication and how much he truly cares about the roles he plays and who he's representing
Tyler - Riddle Of The Sphinx SPOILERS BELOW
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If there's one thing Reece is good at, it's how to play a chilling villain. Everything about Tyler is unnerving and he manages to be terrifying without being loud or angry all the time. It's measured and the emotion builds and builds - fantastic work!
Joseph Lisgoe - The League Of Gentlemen
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I've mentioned before that the debt collectors were underused, and I simply had to talk about how extraordinary Reece's performance as Lisgoe was. He completely dives into the roles he plays and this one was no exception, not even a light smashing on his closest friend stops him from carrying on a scene (just check out the outtakes!), he simply embodies the part and delivers a performance that terrifies the cast, crew and the audience
Laurence - Merrily Merrily SPOILERS BELOW
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Merrily Merrily is an Inside No. 9 episode that I can never rewatched because of how empty it made me feel - and I mean that in the best way possible! Laurence is wracked with pain over the loss of his late partner, and Reece delivers such a subtle yet haunting performance that I don't think I'll ever stop thinking about it
Ross Gaines - The League of Gentlemen
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Ross is such a fun character because of how manipulative, calculating and cold he is. Not only does it set him apart from the other inhabitants of Royston Vasey, it makes his scenes with Pauline all the more tense and entertaining - and Reece really does deliver in the role. I'm glad they decided to go with this casting choice
Aiden - Thinking Out Loud
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Like with Laurence, Reece delivers a hauntingly stellar performance. What makes this one really special is that it's a monologue. There's nobody for him to bounce off of or react to, he has to reach those emotions himself. And, as always, he nails it
Ollie Plimsolls - The League Of Gentlemen
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I've said before that I think Ollie is one of the most cleverly written League characters and I stand by that. As a representation of the Saviour Complex and self-righteousness of people in theatre, Ollie is a character that should be easy to hate... but because of Reece's expert comedic timing and delivery, he ends up being so funny that you can't help but laugh every time he's onscreen
SPECIAL MENTION: Gilbert - Betty Blue Eyes
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Reece Shearsmith said in an interview that he wasn't a great singer. Reece Shearsmith is a liar. Don't believe me? Listen to The Kind Of Man I Am from Betty Blue Eyes and thank me later
Also, if you can find it, there's a short bootleg of him in The Producers which is good too!
Of course, this are just a few of his performances and he's never delivered a bad one - whether he's playing a comedic character like Archie in The Bill or a more serious one like in Borley Rectory. And we haven't even touched on his writing skills, I can't wait to see what he does next!
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scarabjewels · 2 months ago
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My Only Qualm With The Nightmare Before Christmas
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We are all thinking it, so I'll say it out loud: Sally and Jack should have had better chemistry in the movie, other than Sally being down bad.
I know that this goofy spooky tale of a burnout artist rediscovering passion by committing a plethora of crimes yet turned out to be a beloved weirdo favourite character of all time is a beautiful movie, I just wish the side love story was BETTER.
I'll say it: Tim Burton should've had more say in that part of the story because Henry made it a little too...meh.
From what I have observed from Burton's work on love stories, he does know how to incorporate chemistry within his characters, even if they aren't in love stories. I only knew 3 movies of Selick and his work on how couples work isn't too bad but not so great either. This is purely opinionated, by the way, to take these words with a grain or maybe a teaspoon of salt. In James in the Giant Peach, the centipede and Miss Spider were given "already married" vibes. Their chemistry was good, but their journey was not fleshed out at all because it wasn't needed. The same goes for Coraline's parents. I don't think he clicks well with those kinds of stories. Otherwise, he is very good with epics or the classic "hero's journey." For Tim, he is actually quite the romantic. He did well with his previous works that I saw, like Corpse Bride, Edward Scissorhands, and even Dark Shadows. Before you say Wednesday, it was okay. I just didn't like Tyler, I was suspicious of him from the get- go, my sensors were going off the roof. Anyway, the point is it would have been a little different if Burton had directed it, but he loved Batman Returns a little more.
Now, to the important topic, Jack and Sally's love story.
The movie didn't really give them the chance to progress and build ACTUAL chemistry. We were literally introduced to Sally sneaking around to see or stalk Jack, which can be normal given the context that the townsfolk of Halloween Town is well Halloween-y, but we don't get much about them together. If the love story wasn't added but those scenes of them interact remain, I would've thought they were good friends with potential, and fanfictions would have written better plots for them to get together. Honestly, we know they did. They are good friends, and I can really see that, but they really missed the mark in the show and tell with their relationship.
Case 1: Sally is basically living her own tale already, yet had little interaction with Jack.
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I understand that she is supposed to have a crush on her friend, the Pumpkin King, but she was doing quite well with her own arc! The movie showed her estranged relationship with her "creator," often sneaking out and would even go to lengths of poisoning just to have some agency for her life. That was already pretty good, yet the point of her character was supposed to be...Jack's rock?
Look, Sally as a stand alone character is so good but the lackluster of actual substance between her and Jack is just so empty and it's like there was no build up for their ending. The movies just gave us their similarities and differences, separate journeys as individuals, and how well they can actually work together. Yet we get a nom conversation scene of Sally sneaking out to help Jack with her potions and ideas, sewing Jack's Santa suit and Sally blushing when she gets saved by Jack. Hello? Where is the chemistry??? At least give me small cute interactions of "Hey Sally" "Hey Jack" every time they interact.
Case 2: Jack and Sally seemed to be friends and then out of no where, they become a couple?
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I was young and stuff but I feel like I missed the build up of them falling in love?? Its like The movie convincing me that there was a ham on the table the whole time when I smelled no meat cooking? Gaslighting me much???
Sally has a crush on him. WE GET IT. How about Jack??? What he saves her then suddenly he realizes he liked her the whole time? HOW? It's frustrating to find no clues at all other than polite words of "I am trusting you with this important task, my dear friend!" With that showmanship gusto. What I'm just seeing is that Jack sees her as a good friend, like how he sees most of the citizens in Halloween Town. We didn't see an actual intimate status of how deep their friendship is. I mean, if a small conversation of them just happened when Sally gave her trinkets to help him on his midlife crisis (actually, I want to just call it a hyperfixation), they really could've done something more with that storyline. A HUGE MISSED OPPORTUNITY.
Case 3: The movie literally was gaslighting us with this "love story"
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The whole time, we were LED to believe Sally's feelings were unrequited and that she was at least APPRECIATED by Jack. And then, Jack saves her and Santa, suddenly he realizes he likes her? HOW DID WE EVEN GET THERE??
I was losing my mind like, did I miss something? When did all of that happen? What kind of message is this movie sending?
"Hey kids! Remember, if you try hard enough, they just might like you back".
Look, Sally is quirky and as much as I adore her, I do not condone her stalking tendencies. I get that she was trying to help in her own way and in the context of Halloween Town, this kind of behaviour is probably either fine or normal. The citizens' job is to literally sneak and scare. But, it still could send a misguided message.
I was reminded of Dylan's (Dylan Matthews, Dylan is in Trouble) commentary on "The Devil Wears Prada" where he said that movies really have to be careful with sending messages, he was referring to how Andy was seeing success in her job but dropped a dress size. While a lot of people could interpret this as bad sacrifices for a career, some could misinterpreting it as success equals those types of sacrifices, which is a no-no. The point of that scene is that Andy was engaging in toxic behaviours to succeed in a career she didn't even like in the first place.
Now, with the Nightmare Before Christmas, they were a little careless with the messages of how the two characters' love story worked. It came across lacklustre and had terrible to NO progression at all. They really messed up with this. Lucky for them, people still loved those characters as their individualities were fleshed out well. Also, because the games and books fixed this problem a little bit.
To my point, there was no love story during the whole movie, just a lovestruck girlie pop and a burnt out artist. Then, a Houdini magic show somehow came into the picture and decided to have Jack and Sally kiss by the end.
But here is the thing, the video games gave us the chemistry that lacked in the movie.
Kingdom Hearts delivered what I was deprived of.
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Also, I got this image from a subreddit post that didn't like Sally because she "never believed in him". And the replies were good: "because Jack has bad ideas" and a reply to that comment: "that's the exactly the point, the town always gets swept up by his ideas and Sally is level headed enough to see that it's not a great idea".
She really is though, Jack is a showman with either hit or miss ideas and Sally is essentially the woman behind the man, so I guess it kinda makes sense that she would be the town's Pumpkin Queen.
I have YET TO READ IT AND I HAVE THE PDF!!!
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opalimagines · 9 months ago
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Character: Rick Tyler(Hourman)
Rick tries to end the friends with benefits relationship because of his feelings
Part 1
Not requested I just wanted happiness. Also I wrote this over a year ago and it's been sitting in my drafts this whole time 👀
Warning: mentions of sexual situations
Reader: Neutral
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"We have to stop this."
Rick always knew that he was only hurting himself when the two of you started this arrangement. The feelings he had for you were not returned, it was just sex. Sex with one of your best friends, yes, but nothing else. He thought he could handle it, and he had for a while, but he couldn't anymore.
You immediately moved your hands from him and scooted backwards at his words, confused, but more concerned. "Are you okay? Was I moving to fast?"
"No, I'm fine," Rick lied, staring down at your comforter and playing with a loose thread. "You didn't do anything wrong, I just..." He swallowed and hesitated to look up. "I can't keep doing this...this thing we're doing."
He wasn't expecting your face to fall so quickly. "I don't understand."
Rick took a breath, resting his hands in his lap as he twiddled his thumbs. A nervous tick, one that seemed to come out more with you. "The first time we," he gestured between the two of you to illustrate what he meant, "you said that it was just as friends–no feelings–and I agreed...but I lied. I was already in love with you then and I can't keep pretending that I'm not."
For so long, you'd wanted to hear those words, and you thought you might have jumped for joy, but you couldn't move. The shock of it all meant you couldn't say a damn thing.
The longer the silence went on, the more Rick's stomach turned. He should've just told you that he wanted to get into dating, or that he'd already found someone else that interested him. Anything besides the truth. The thought of losing your friendship was worse than anything, but he could feel that it was about to happen.
As Rick went to stand up, you quickly reached out and kept him from doing so. "Please, just wait a second. Let me say my piece."
Rick's brow furrowed in that cute way that made your heart skip, because you weren't deadly serious, as if to tell him all the bad things he was dreading. You were smiling, warm and sweet, and that began to put him at ease.
You gently took his hands in yours, and you could see the tension slowly leave his shoulders. "When I said those things, it was only because I assumed that no strings was what you wanted. I never considered that you loved me too, but looking back, it seems kind of obvious."
It did to Rick too, when he remembered that you were the first to insist on him staying the night even after you were both spent, just to cuddle and hang out. Or how you would hold him and play with his hair whenever he needed comfort. A small smile touched the corners of his mouth. "So...you love me?"
"Yeah, I do." You squeezed his hands as you smiled back. "Obviously, having sex with you is great. Really great." A flush crept up his neck and you couldn't help grinning wider. "But my favorite part has always been after, when it's the two of us and we order takeout or watch a cheesy movie. Because I'm with you, and...it just feels right."
"I know exactly what you mean."
You let go of him and reached up to cup his face with a deep tenderness you'd been scared of showing before, to finally say the words directly. "I love you, Rick."
"I love you," he said in return, laying his hands on yours, feeling like he did the moment Grundy's hand came out from the dirt years back. Relieved and joyful. Like things were finally heading in the right direction.
Leaning in, you gave him a kiss without holding back a thing. And as Rick laid you back on your bed, there was no more hesitation or hidden feelings. No more lying to your friends or leaving when morning came.
Just the love you had for each other, and that was everything.
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thesupreme316 · 2 years ago
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Oblivious (Darius Martin x Fem!Reader)
Genre: Fluff, Angst, Childhood Friends to Lovers
Summary: You make it up to Darius (who just had a horrible evening) and more happened than you anticipated.
Word Count: 1,553 (my b)
Supreme Speaks: OKAY this one took me a while (school and work) sorry @hooks-martin. i hope you and everyone enjoys this cause tumblr started being an shithead about my character count. i will release more works next week (@wwenhlimagines 😉). anyways, i hope everyone is doing well and remember you are loved and appreciated.
Warnings: not proofread, bffs being bffs, also this is my first time writing without bullet points (so again my b)
Taglist: @hooks-martin @wwenhlimagines @triscillal @diabloguapos @sheinthatfandom
“So, when’s the date?” You ask your best friend.
Your heart immediately dropped when he responded with “In two hours,” as he grabbed his suit.
You’ve been best friends with Darius Martin as long as you could remember. You two have been through everything together. From play dates on the playground to y’all’s high school graduation, to his first match, your first match, first crushes. Speaking of crushes, you had a crush on Darius since high school. And how could you not? The man fits your ideal type all the way; tall, athletic, amazing smile, great style, funny, the whole package. The bad news? He was so perfect that he fit the ideal types of others. So, he constantly had women in his face and on his radar. 
NOW YOU ON THE OTHER HAND? You were gorgeous, also athletic, and artistic too. Many people saw you as Darius’ equal and were confused about how ya’ll were not dating. But despite it all, he always made sure he had time for you; he would make sure that you knew you would always be number one (even though he didn’t show romantic interest). Which made you fall in love with him even more yet made you angry at him. How could he not know that you fell in love with him? Oh right, you never made your feelings known for fear he wouldn’t feel the same or ruin your friendship. So for years, you sat alone suppressing your feelings to not feel rejected. This leads to today; you sitting in his hotel room as he gets ready for his date.
“Oh,” you started, “I thought it was later this week.”
“Me too! But I’m excited. She’s a cool girl, you two would get along great.”
“I bet,” You said while thinking over my dead body.
“Hey, I promise we’ll hang out afterward. After all, you’re my favorite girl.” Darius smiled before shutting the bathroom door. Although it wasn’t the first time he called you that, your heart fluttered at the endearing term. You shook it off as him just trying to comfort you, rejecting the wave of feelings you experience.
Just as you were about to say something else, there was a knock at the door. “That her?” You rolled your eyes, hating how it was getting closer to that time of their date.
“No, we’re meeting at the restaurant. That’s probably Dante” He shouted from the bathroom.
Upon opening the door, you were met with the faces of Dante, Anthony, and Hook. “Hey guys.”
Anthony engulfed you in a hug, “Y/N! We missed you at Taco Tuesday.” Tyler (Hook) nodded at you and gave you a quick hug before walking in with Anthony. Dante closed the door with a sad smile and hugged you. He whispered, “I’m sorry he’s an idiot.” 
You slightly chuckled “I’m the idiot”
Dante always knew about your feelings toward his brother, trying on multiple occasions to get you together over the years. He was always the number one cheerleader for you guys. He truly believes that you are the one for Darius, no one else. “No, he’s really just being an idiot. I told him not to do this.”
As the boys (except for Dante) were hyping Darius up, you saw a flash of worry/sadness go across his face. You only saw that look when he was unsure about something; whether it was a decision, match, or test. Ever since that look, you didn’t feel right about the date.
As you were gonna ask what’s wrong, his timer went off, signifying it was time for him to leave. Darius grabbed his things before dapping everyone up and hugging you, then he left without any more words. Just like that, making your heart grow even more uneasy as his cologne scent became faint. “Something feels off about this” You spoke moments after he left.
Dante stood up, “Yeah, that’s because he’s going on a date with the wrong woman.”
Anthony turned to you, “Aww, are you jealous Y/N?”
Your eyes flicked around the room, avoiding eye contact. “No, I just don’t feel well right now. My head hurts so I’m gonna go, bye!” You said very quickly before leaving.
As you began walking down the hall, you heard Tyler’s muffled voice, “They’re both idiots.” 
You got back to your hotel room that you were sharing with Willow Nightingale, who knew something was wrong. As you explained what happened and how you felt, Willow immediately told you to put on some nice clothes and said you were going out on a “Girl’s Night”
This is the time you were really appreciative that you and Willow were close friends, to the point you can do spontaneous plans.
Two hours go by of you and Willow parading around the town in gorgeous gowns, looking like you were coming from the Met Gala even though you were going around Target. Your mood was uplifted and soon you started to forget your dilemma. Finally, you and Willow went to a restaurant that fit the themes of your outfits. Very fancy, very upscale, and expensive.
 As you were being led to a table, you saw a familiar face on the side. Upon closer look, it was Darius, alone on the phone. Your heart churned and skipped a beat in both happiness and sadness. As you turned to continue to walk, Willow shook her head and shooed you to Darius’ table. You hugged her tightly before walking towards him. Walking up to his table, you heard him being on Facetime with someone. “Dante-“ Darius started
“No, you should’ve done what I said and asked Y/N out. Then, you wouldn’t be there by yourself. Y/N really likes you and has been for years. I can’t believe you would let her go.” His younger brother said before hanging up abruptly
Darius slumped in his chair, leaning his head back. “You know he’s right in a way.” You spoke, startling him. 
“Y/N?” He got up to pull your chair out and sat in his seat again. “You look amazing but, what are you doing here? How much did-“
“No, first question: How long have you been here by yourself? And what happened?”
Darius sighed as he recounted his evening, “An hour and a half. I thought she would show up but I look on Instagram to see her with Carmelo Hayes at another restaurant.” You immediately were filled with anger yet sympathy for Darius. He didn’t deserve to be treated like this, no one did.
He continued, “Then sitting here made me think about myself and what I don’t have. Maybe it’s because I’m not signed to WWE. Or I don’t make enough money. Or maybe because I don’t look as good as him-“
You immediately cut him off, “Stop. Don’t do that. Darius, you are more than enough. You are an amazing man with incredible athleticism, a great personality, and handsome looks. I refuse to hear the man that I am in love with, degrade himself when that woman doesn’t understand what she’s missing out on. It’s her loss, not yours. Don’t act like that.” You sat back in your chair after a heartfelt monologue. 
You look back up at Darius, who’s smirking down at you. “So you are in love with me?”
Then, the realization of what you said just settled in your heart, mind, and face. There was no point in disagreeing, sighing, you said “Yeah. I’ve been in love with you since high school. I just thought there was no way you would like me back.” 
 “I thought you didn’t like me.” Darius said making your eyes go wide. “I’ve been in love with you since middle school. Every time I would hint at something, you never responded to it or you would think I’m joking.”
“That’s because you always dated other people!”
“That’s because I wanted to distract myself from you!” He exclaimed, making the table go silent in shock. Both of you realizing that you were oblivious and didn’t try to understand each other. Just making up assumptions. 
Darius chuckled, “We are so stupid.”
You giggled while nodding, “Yeah, we are. More you though.”
He smiled at you before grabbing your hand and saying, “Better late than never.”
“Yeah, but I prefer we start this over. Correctly”
“I agree.” Darius cleared his throat and looked into your eyes while intertwining your fingers, “Y/N, will go out on this date with me?” Again, Darius always made sure that your relationship was smooth sailing. This was nothing different, even if he was late or you were too oblivious to see it.
You looked up at the ceiling as if you were thinking about your answer. “Absolutely.”
As you two looked over the menu, with hands intertwined and all, Willow was on the phone with Dante, giving him the details of what just unfolded…
Quietly telling each other good job on their scheme.
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juniperhillpatient · 2 years ago
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'Wednesday' Review (no spoilers)
Well, I'm always complaining that I get too many show recommendations when everyone knows I usually just re-watch the same 5 shows or watch YouTube & I also complain a lot about binge culture & say I like to watch shows slowly but I literally watched it in one sitting so...I must've liked it! Honestly, the Tim Burton style was perfect, the dialogue was witty, & the plot was fun & addictive.
Jenna Ortega is amazing. Wednesday Addams is such an iconic & beloved character, & this show relied heavily on her demeanor & presence. So, a strong lead actress was the most important element of the show in my opinion. I honestly can't even imagine the role being pulled off more perfectly. This is only the second thing I've seen Jenna Ortega in, & she's blown me away both times. The other thing I've seen her in is Scream 5, & as a huge Scream fan, I would argue that she made that movie what it was with her performance too - & that was a very different character. Clearly, she's just a fantastic actress with a huge range & an amazing screen presence.
Also, most of the rest of the cast did a fantastic job too. Emma Myers and Hunter Doohan (I had to Google both those names, but Enid & Tyler) both had fantastic chemistry with Jenna Ortega & so did Joy Sunday (Bianca) (yes I had to Google that too) both as a rival & frienemy. I don't want to rub anyone the wrong way but just to be honest as I think back on the series, my biggest criticism is that Percy Hynes White (Xavier) just had no charm or chemistry with the lead. The actor can hardly be blamed entirely for that, though I do think either he's part of the problem or the way he was directed is. But really, the issue with Xavier was mainly a writing problem for me, because I just found his character way too bland & that's a pretty huge weakness in a show where so much of the plot relies on this sort of love triangle. Like, I need to either hate one of the guys or struggle with who to root for or something but Xavier just gave me nothing. He had no personality or interiority as a character outside of pining after Wednesday & sometimes being sus like....literally just nothing going on with him to make him feel like a real person & give me something to latch onto as a viewer.
I thought that the rest of the family had the perfect amount of screen presence for a show focused on Wednesday going off on her own where her family is still important to the plot & to her character. They did a really great job playing that balancing act. My biggest criticism of the family aspect of the show is that Morticia's wig made me want to die. Everything else - the backstory, the plot itself, was fantastic. And I loved Fester & Thing's roles both so much as well as the element of Wednesday being protective of Pugsly. The dynamic between Wednesday & Morticia is well done & explored, & I like that they gave them a little tension & how the story used it. Gomez Addams continues to be an iconic character in every incarnation.
The mystery itself was fun, although I think maaaybe it's possible they introduced a few too many elements? This is a cursory "I literally just watched it" review, so maybe not, but it felt like there was just a LOT going on & it could sometimes be a bit much to keep up with. That said, the show is clever. It's not just witty dialogue, it's a detailed & smart mystery plot, overall. I had at least part of it - not solved, but figured out (I knew something was off with a certain character because of clues) I should say - very early on. And I did solve at least part of the mystery well before any of the characters. I think this is a sign of strong writing because a good mystery should be giving you clues early on to figure things out, so this is meant as praise.
I think that it was a very fun & satisfying show. It's 100% worth checking out if you like acerbic humor. The directing style almost reminded me a bit of Wes Anderson. The general pace & dialogue & style reminded me of 'A Series of Unfortunate Events.' I thought it was a super fun show & I hope it gets a season 2, which it's definitely set up for. But, either way, it was a fantastic ride & I had a great time.
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biggestsimponhere · 2 years ago
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I posted 111 times in 2022
42 posts created (38%)
69 posts reblogged (62%)
Blogs I reblogged the most:
@liharrington
@ronweasleysleftnut
@moreidsdaughter
@biggestsimponhere
@persage
I tagged 46 of my posts in 2022
#wednesday - 17 posts
#tyler galpin - 12 posts
#tyler galpin x reader - 12 posts
#steve harrington - 10 posts
#xavier thorpe x reader - 10 posts
#stranger things - 9 posts
#steve harrington x you - 8 posts
#xavier thorpe - 8 posts
#tyler galpin x you - 8 posts
#tyler galpin x y/n - 8 posts
Longest Tag: 66 characters
#sadie sink marry me please ur the love of my life i need you fr fr
My Top Posts in 2022:
#5
I LOVE TYLER SO MUCH IT'S NOT EVEN FUNNY (and your headcanons about dating him are so great) so maybe angst prompt 11 with him? Maybe he's afraid you're leaving him or shutting him out like his dad is doing but it's just a misunderstanding for some reason and it turns to fluff. God I wanna read about comforting him so badly
Everyone leaves, everyone except you - Tyler galpin x reader, thank you so much!!! Also I want to comfort him so badly too 😭 Just to reiterate all my Tyler fics he isn’t The Hyde unless it’s specifically necessary for the plot 😭 also I changed the prompt a little to “everyone in my life already leaves, so I just assumed you would too” because that’s just how the story flowed.
Tyler and his dad didn’t have the best relationship, you knew that. He always came to you when he and his dad were fighting so you know most of what goes on. On Sunday he got into a big fight with his dad. They fought about what they normally fight about, his mom of course. Except this time his dad left. Not forever, just for the week. He left some money for food and a note saying he was going out of town for the week. You haven’t seen or talked to Tyler since Saturday. You’ve been drowning in your studies and the little down time you had you spent sleeping. So on Friday when all your exams for the week were done you decided to swing by the weathervane to say hi to Tyler.
Except he wasn’t there. You quickly asked his coworkers where he was and they said he’s called off sick the last three days. This wasn’t usual for Tyler, he always went to work even when he was actually sick. You’ve had to drag him back to his house more times then you can count. You got your hot chocolate and then quickly rushed out the weathervane and headed to Tyler’s house. You knocked on the door but no one answered. You knew Tyler was home cause you saw his car, so he has to be around somewhere. You pulled out your key and went into Tyler’s house. “Ty! Are you here?” You called out as you took off your shoes. “Tyler!” You called again, “Are you home?” You continued further into his house until you saw him in his bedroom.
He was curled up in a ball under his covers. Deciding to let him sleep a while longer you headed back out to the living room. You turned on the tv before heading into the kitchen and making soup. Once the soup was finished you decided you would wait a few minutes more before waking Tyler up. You sat on his couch and pulled out your book. A few minutes slowly turned into much longer before you remembered the soup. You ran back into the kitchen and checked on the soup. It was very cold now. You made a bowl and heated it up in the microwave before heading back to Tyler’s room. You set the bowl down on his desk and then went and sat on the edge of his bed.
“Ty” you said shaking him lightly. He groaned before just turning over. “Hey, Ty, wake up I made you some soup” You shook him a little more this time. He eventually woke up enough to sit up and take in his surroundings. He smelled the soup before he saw it and then he turned to look at you. As soon as he saw you he pulled you into a hug. Which you immediately reciprocated. You ran one hand through his hair while the other rubbed his back. “I heard you were sick so I made you some soup” you said, kissing his forehead. He mumbled something incoherent into your neck before you spoke again. “Baby, you don’t feel that warm, are you really sick?” You asked pulling him closer to you.
He shook his head before burying his face back in your neck. “Ty, why’d you call off if you’re not sick, where’s your dad?” You asked, trying to fit the pieces together. “He left on Sunday, he said he’d be back in a week” Tyler said finally pulling away from you. “Ty, you’ve been here alone since Sunday?” You asked pouting. He nodded before moving back into your embrace. “Why didn’t you call me baby?” You said, laying you both down. “I don’t know, you hadn’t come by at all so I just assumed you wanted to leave me to” he said not meeting your eyes. “Tyler, there’s never a time, I don’t want to see you, I’m sorry I wasn’t here, I was busy with my schoolwork. If you told me I would have came a lot sooner” you said brushing the hair out of his eyes.
“I mean everyone in my life already leaves, so I just assumed you would too” He said, starting to cry. You pulled him back into your chest and let him cry in your neck. You stroked his hair while whispering sweet nothings into his ear. Once you thought he had calmed down enough you asked if he was ready for the soup. He nodded so you got up and grabbed it off the desk. “It’s just slightly cold from sitting there, do you want me to go warm it up more?” You asked moving towards his bed. “No please, just come sit with me, I don’t care if it’s cold” he said reaching out towards you. You moved forward and sat next to him in his bed. He quickly ate his soup so you could hold him again. You moved the bowl off to the side before wrapping him in your arms. “Goodnight Ty, I love you” you whispered in his ear. You thought he was asleep till you heard quietly whispered back “goodnight y/n, I love you too” and then you both drifted off into a peaceful sleep.
326 notes - Posted December 4, 2022
#4
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436 notes - Posted December 3, 2022
#3
can you make a xavier and short reader headcanons pls
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Dating Xavier Thorpe as a short reader headcannons
Will constantly rest his arm on your shoulder or the top of your head
Teases you for being so short
Asks if you want a piggy back ride everywhere (ofc you do)
Grabs things off the top shelf for you
Made you stand on a stool for your first kiss
At the fair he’s always like “are you sure you’re tall enough to ride this ride?”
Loves to wrap you in his arms
Claims you’re the perfect height for kissing
Asks if your bed is so small cause you’re short as hell
Tells you your doorframes are too small
Bumps into you and then says “oops I didn’t see you down there”
Doesn’t let anyone else make fun of your height
^^ “hey their height is perfectly normal. Leave them alone”
Thinks it’s funny when you try to be the big spoon but ultimately give up
Loves that you practically drown in his clothes
Loves to compare your hand sizes
Nicknamed you “shortie”
Your close friends all call you “shortie” btw
When he gives you hugs he lifts you off the ground
810 notes - Posted December 4, 2022
#2
I wasn’t gonna talk about it, hoping someone else would say it but I’ve seen it too many times now. PLEASE DO NOT tag ships that are NOT in the fanfic. If it’s a fic for Xavier I don’t want to see “Wednesday Addams x reader” or “Tyler Galpin x reader” in the tags. Please tag your fics with the correct ship if it’s Xavier x reader just tag it “Xavier Thorpe x reader” if there’s other characters that ARE NOT with the reader just tag their name without the X reader. I know you want to have more tags so more people see it but there are plenty of other tags such as the show name or “Wednesday Characters x reader”, anyways thank you for coming to my rant.
I’m sorry if this comes off bitchy I just would please like fics to be tagged correctly so I can read what I was actually looking for <3
THIS GOES FOR ALL FANDOMS BTW!!!!!
PLEASE TAG YOUR FICS CORRECTLY, I LOVE YOU ALL, THANK YOU FOR FEEDING US FANFICS 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
957 notes - Posted December 4, 2022
My #1 post of 2022
“Tyler’s the monster, you shouldn’t like him”
Boo freaking hoo
Tyler <3
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2,182 notes - Posted November 29, 2022
Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →
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malex-overlord-believe · 3 years ago
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Ya'll I finally did it!!!! I watched season 2!!!!! Mostly skipped through and didn't watch that episode (cause I love myself) but if there was anyway I was gonna actually see and understand what was happening after episode 4 then this was it 😆 I'm still sad Patricia wasn't Max's mom so that would've made the bartender related to Max instead of Isobel. You know 👀👀👀👀 hmmm no I shouldn't say 🤭
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ofstoriesandstardust · 2 years ago
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when i get where i’m going (jake “hangman” seresin)
a/n: i’ve enjoyed writing this mini-series. make sure to read the original and the follow-up prequel before reading this.
inspired by “when i get where i’m going” by brad paisley and dolly parton 
summary: a career change and unexpected life event brings you and your brother Tyler to San Diego. and unfortunately, back into the orbit of Jake Seresin. a devastating loss could change the tide of your life and your relationship with him.
memory i don’t mess with | break up in a small town
main masterlist | top gun: maverick masterlist
warnings: minor character death, brief reference to death from a terminal illness, yes two people die what else do you expect from me, swearing, i still don’t know how the military works sue me, Iceman is in fact actually alive and healthy because I said so, i’m terrible at writing grief so i just Don’t, Hangman is very much “I hate everyone but you and your little brother” in this fic and i’m not changing it, medical inaccuracies 
word count: 5,881
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You sighed as you sat down next to your brother Tyler on the couch. The house felt quiet, but the two of you knew why. It’d only been a week since your Mom passed, but the two of you have been dealing with your grief better than expected. You’ve long prepared yourself for what was going to happen, ever since she got sick when you were 16, not long after your Dad died. It’d been a miracle she’d held on as long as she had and even more so of a miracle was that the periods where she’d been good had been as great and long-lasting as they were. You were blessed to have had the time you did with her and you were glad she was no longer in pain. You reached out for your brother’s hand, squeezing it. “There’s some place better.” You whispered. He squeezed your hand back, sighing. 
“I know.” He whispered and you pulled him into a hug. “By the way, I got my basic orders today.” Tyler mumbled. He had decided to enlist in the Navy not long before your Mom had passed. “Guess where?” He said, a small smirk forming on his face. You raised your eyebrow. 
“Don’t tell me...”
“Miramar baby!” He exclaimed and you groaned. “I’ve already called Jake to tell him. He’s taking me out for a beer when I land.” 
“I fucking hate you.” You said, shaking your head with laughter as you took a sip of your beer. Your brother liked Jake too much, probably always would. The two had been as close as brothers when you’d dated him and the break-up had ripped Jake out of his life so quickly. You couldn’t hate your little brother for wanting at least some semblance of that back. Tyler laughed openly. “But on that note, I heard back from the people at the USS Midway today.” As things had turned dire with your Mom not long after your run-in with Jake at the farmers’ market, you and your brother had prepared yourselves for life after Mom. Part of that included looking for new jobs. You’d only been able to go to college within the last 5 years or so, with Tyler finally being older and you’d finished your grad program the same time Tyler did his undergrad. A new job and a fresh start only made sense, which is how you found yourself applying for a job in San Diego on a whim. It definitely had nothing to do with the fact that you couldn’t stop thinking of Jake after seeing him at the farmers market that day. Your brother nudged you. 
“Hey that’s great, did they offer you the job?” 
“That and then some. They offered me double the pay of what I originally applied for and a higher position. Apparently my application stood out because of my experience.” 
“So...” Tyler prompted, waving his hand. Of course he knew there was more, there always was. 
“So I have a proposition for you.” He nodded, urging you to continue. “I take the job. You have basic there. We sell the house, Uncle is already taking over the business. After basic...” You said, sighing. That’s where your plan always stopped. 
“I ask to be stationed at the base in San Diego. I intend to make my way to TOPGUN eventually anyways so.” Your brother stated with such confidence you felt like it was actually Jake you were having this conversation with. 
“We moving to San Diego together?”
“Sounds like it.” The two of you clinked beers and settled in, ready to discuss and dissect the next phase of your lives. 
-
Jake watched the young boy saunter into the Hard Deck. He still had a hard time believing that this kid was still the same that he had babysit all those years ago. Played football with, hiked with, and even taught how to swim in the lake during summers. Tyler spotted Jake’s tall frame where he was playing pool with his team and Jake waved, a bright smile on his face. Tyler made his way over, going straight for the hug. Jake adored this kid, hugs included. “Tyler man, it’s great to see you!” He said, chuckling. 
“Likewise, Seresin.” Tyler said, smile just as bright. Jake introduced him to the crew and then offered to get him a beer. Tyler nodded and Jake offered to buy the next round for the whole crew. 
“What’s your story kid, if Hangman here’s being so nice to us?” Fanboy asked, leaning on his pool cue. Tyler laughed. 
“My sister was his high school sweetheart.” Hangman did not miss the way Phoenix choked slightly on her beer. 
“You, keep a girlfriend?” Rooster chuckled. 
“I invited her by the way. My sister.” Tyler said, turning slightly. “She’s wonderful, you’ll all love her.” He said, turning back to the group. “She’s running late, they don’t close until 5 and I know her boss wanted to go over how her first day went. She might ghost me though, she’s being weird about being around you.” Tyler said, this time in direction to Jake. The irony of the situation, of Tyler being here, was not lost on Jake, but he intended to make the most of it. Ever since he saw you that day at the farmers market, he couldn’t get you out of his head. He was still as in love with you as he was the day the two of you broke up. Jake collected the beers from Penny, the bar being fairly quiet. He wished it had been noisy so he could’ve avoided Tyler’s next question. “Why’d the two of you break up anyways?” Jake sighed, passing the beers out to the group. 
“Tyler, man. You gotta hit me with the hard questions so soon?” Tyler shrugged, taking the pool cue from Payback. 
“My goal for basic is to get the two of you back together. I need to know what I’m working with.” Jake exhaled, trying to not let this kid down. For being an adult, he’s not sure he’d ever stop seeing him as a kid the same way you’d never not see Tyler as your baby brother. 
“Tyler, your sister moved on pretty quickly after we broke up. I doubt that after all this time she’s even thinking about the possibility of us getting back together.” Tyler raised an eyebrow. 
“That kid? Nah, they didn’t date. He certainly wanted to, and told everyone they were, but they didn’t. She flipped her shit when she found out what he’d been telling everyone, poured a beer on his head in front of all their friends apparently.” Jake was taken aback. He didn’t know that. He’d assumed- “The two of you are meant for each other and we all know it.” Jake gaped at the boy as he made a shot that effectively shut Rooster out from the rest of the game, unphased. Phoenix raised her eyebrows as the boys began to cheer, or groan, depending on who they were rooting for. Jake sighed. 
“Tyler, I love and care about your sister. Always will. I love you kid, you’re like my brother and you can call me for whatever you need, whenever you need it, no matter what. But some people just aren’t meant to be together. Your sister and I are some of those people.” Tyler raised an eyebrow, clearly taking that as a challenge. 
“We’ll see.” 
-
You had, in fact, decided to join the crew for a drink, Jake noted as he emerged from the bathroom. The business in the bar had picked up a bit as he made his way back to the pool table. You were sandwiched in between Phoenix and Bob, Rooster leaning against his pool cue (much to the obvious annoyance of Coyote, who was trying to play against Rooster) as the four of you had an active conversation. You looked happy and that was all Jake could hope for. Tyler had filled him in and he couldn’t image the kind of stress you were under, trying to sell your house back home, your brother starting basic the next day, a new job, a move across the country, all on top of the fact that you were dealing with the loss of your Mom. Jake hadn’t been able to go to the funeral, on a mission that week, and he regretted flying it as soon as he landed. He should’ve been there for you. Of course, that wasn’t really his place anymore, was it? He appeared next to Fanboy, who was listening to Tyler tell a story about the time Jake had gone swimming and came out of the water only to discover leeches on him. He cringed. It hadn’t been fun at the time and while everyone else had come to laugh about it, Jake still hated the idea of being anywhere near that specific lake again. “Surprised you remember that, kid. You were like... six.” Hangman laughed, raising his beer to his lips. 
“How long did the two of you date?” Bob asked, heading swinging between him and you. 
“Mmm,” you said, lips pursed in thought. “Four years? Yeah, just about ‘cause Jake asked me to homecoming freshman year and we started dating homecoming night.” 
“So I want to go back to the question Tyler asked earlier about why the two of you broke up.” Rooster asked, leaning on the pool table. You visibly hesitated and Jake took another swig of beer. He decided in that moment that he was not about to out you to his friends, or your brother for that matter, about the decision you had made. 
“Mutual decision.” Lie. “Our lives were going in separate directions.” Less of a lie. “Only love though, baby.” Truth. 
-
Tyler quickly became part of the crew as he tagged along to nights out when he could, you in tow because Jake knew you and he knew you weren't going to pass up any minute you could spend with your brother while he was still around. You seemed to be handling the Navy thing surprisingly well, right up until Tyler had gotten his advanced training orders. He would be at the base in San Diego, still uncertain for how long, but Jake suspected this made it more real as to what was happening. It wasn’t until a night when Maverick had dragged Admiral Kazansky out to the Hard Deck with him that you’d changed your tune. Hangman doubted you’d ever be fully pro-your brother being in the Navy and at risk of dying but whatever Kazansky had said had calmed you down. You were forming a closer friendship his crew, especially Rooster and Phoenix, and Jake knew that had to be helping. And while you were certainly aware of Tyler’s blatant attempts at getting the two of you back together, you were warming up to Jake, letting him back into your life piece by piece. Jake wasn’t sure when his end goal became getting back together with you but Jake could work with slowly. It was a start. 
-
Another six months later, and it was Tyler’s last night in town. He was leaving for deployment early in the morning and you seemed ready to jump out of your skin. When Tyler had joked that the next time he’d be back in San Diego, it would be to be part of the TOPGUN program (even though the timeline was almost impossible, although not improbable), you’d nearly wrung his neck right then and there, in front of Maverick and Admiral Kazansky and God and everyone. Jake had made the executive decision to send everyone home, particularly to get you away from your brother before you popped a vein from stress. The group quickly parted ways after that but Jake hung back as you said goodbye to your brother. He felt like an an intruder but he also felt like he should say goodbye to the kid who was family to him too. Jake watched the way you clung tightly to him as he said goodbye and tried not to make it obvious he was watching. The two of you eventually parted and Tyler made his way to Jake. Jake wrapped him in a hug before Tyler ever fully reached him. “If I don’t come back-” Tyler whispered. 
“Don’t say that.” Jake whispered sharply, grip on the boy tightening. 
“If I don’t come back, take care of my sister please. She doesn’t have anyone else looking out for her.” Jake swallowed, eyes shutting briefly. 
“Don’t ask me to do that. You’re going to be fine.” 
“Please Jake. I need to know that if I go, she’s going to be okay. Please.” 
“It’ll be okay bud. I’ll take care of her, no matter what. You’re gonna come home, I know it. Don’t make your sister bury someone else.” 
“Same goes for you Seresin.”
“Love you kid.” Tyler squeezed Jake. 
“Love you. Thanks for looking out for me all these years.” Jake nodded. 
“See you in six and a half months.” Jake said as he tipped an imaginary cowboy hat, the Southern drawl making an appearance. Tyler laughed, turning towards his car. 
“I love you Ty!” You shouted across the parking lot as you and Jake made the walk to your respective cars in the opposite direction. 
“Love you too!” The boy had shouted and the two of you waved as he drove away. You sighed, kicking a rock on the ground as you came to a halt outside your car. 
“I’m so worried about him Jake.” You muttered, rubbing your temple. 
“He’s gonna be okay.” Jake offered, knowing there wasn’t much he could say to alleviate what you were going through. Suddenly, he was thankful (for the first time in his life) you’d made that decision all those years ago, unsure if he could’ve handled doing this every time he had left. It was a lot to watch the girl he loved go through this and the guilt he would’ve felt being the one to put you through it? Maybe it had been for the best. 
“I wish you were going with him. I’d feel so much better if you were going with him, because at least then I know he’s got somebody to look after him.”
“Yeah, but I’m here to look after you.” You shrugged.
“I moved out here for him, Jake. I only took the job at the Midway because he was gonna be here. And I obviously knew it wasn’t gonna last forever but this feels different. This feels final and I can’t help but wonder what I’m doing out here if there’s no Tyler. I’m scared and confused and I just-” Jake pulled you into a hug, effectively cutting you off. 
“You got me. You always got me. Phoenix adores you as does Bob. Rooster’s taken a liking to you and if you disappear don’t think Coyote won’t hunt you down at your place of work and drag you to Penny’s for a beer. Payback and Fanboy have personally been taking bets as to which one of them can get you up in a plane first. Maverick likes having you around because you entertain Kazansky and honestly that man probably sees you as an extension of our crew at this point. You got friends out here. You got a family. Tyler’s gonna be okay, but even if he isn’t, you’re gonna be okay too.” Jake said honestly. His friends adored you and Tyler hasn’t been the only one pushing for the two of you to get back together. Jake held out hope but he wasn’t pushing anything. The last year had been a lot for you and right now he was just grateful to have you in his life at all. You sighed against his chest. “Tell you what. You get news about Tyler, good or bad, you call me. Day or night, I want to know. I’ll be the first to know and I’ll be there no matter what, you understand?” You nodded. “Alright, go home, get some sleep. We can get breakfast in the morning if you want, I know you don’t go in until 1 tomorrow.” You nodded again, pulling away from Jake. He turned to walk back towards his car but you called out his name. He turned to face you, hands in his pocket. 
“Thank you. For everything.”
Jake immediately knew something was wrong the minute he entered the Hard Deck. You were standing next to Rooster and Maverick, your eyes wild, looking like a deer caught in the headlights. You looked ready to bolt the minute someone said something to you and Jake knew. He just knew. He called out for you and you turned, eyes widening as you saw him. He felt Phoenix’s presence behind him as he made his way towards you, and as he saw Rooster’s panicked face, Jake’s heart sunk. Any doubts he had about what was happening were gone. It hadn’t even been two weeks since Tyler had left for deployment...
He paused in front of you, concern evident. He reached out to touch you but in your panicked state he wasn’t sure that was the smartest idea. You gripped the counter of the bar tightly as you looked up into his eyes. “The Navy called.” You whispered. “He’s- Jake- Tyler’s dead.” Jake felt his world spinning as you said it, finding his balance on the bar. The kid who thought he was invincible, gone, just like that? “My baby brother’s dead.” You said, dam breaking and Jake’s arms shot out for you as your body crumpled. You clutched at his shirt, still slightly damp from his shower after training today. He pulled you close, unable to bring himself to offer any sort of comfort. What could he say? 
What happened next was a blur and honestly, he’s not entirely sure how you wound up in Phoenix’s apartment but he was grateful nonetheless. You were sitting on the couch with your head in your hands and Coyote was crouched in front of you, talking to you softly. He got up, knowing you were in good hands. He needs to call his sister, he thought. They need to know what’s happening. His family had looked out for you and Tyler long after your relationship ended, even if they didn’t know he knew that. He wandered into the kitchen, already hearing the dial tone before he noticed Phoenix and Bob. Their conversation paused and he leaned up against the counter. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. “Hello?” Came the voice of his sister Sascha. 
“Sasch, I need you to do me a favor.” 
“K, what’s up?”
“Call Mom. Tell her (Y/N) is gonna be coming out there, probably no later than tomorrow night. Depends on when we can get her a flight. I might be coming too but she needs somewhere to stay and I’d prefer to not put her in a hotel by herself right now.” 
“Jake, what’s happening?” 
“I’ll explain later.”
“Well, quite frankly, I don’t want to do anything for either of you unless you’re telling me you’re getting back together.” Jake sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. 
“Sasch-” He noted Rooster’s presence in the kitchen, gesturing for him to come out to the living room. He could hear Maverick’s voice, talking to you. He held up a finger, needing to get his sister on board. 
“You are soulmates and you know it.”
“Sasch, this really isn’t the time to be-”
“You know Jake, there really isn’t a good time to get back together with your ex-girlfriend but really, the two of you breaking up was a mistake and you know that.”
“Sascha.” He said firmly, losing his patience. 
“Listen Jake, I love you but-”
“Sascha, Tyler’s dead.” He winced at the bluntness but she would’ve kept going and that was not the point of the conversation. There was dead silence for a few minutes and Jake got worried. “Sasch?”
“Yeah, I’m here Jake. I’ll- I’ll call Mom, see what we can do. Should I reach out to (Y/N)?” 
“No, no don’t let her know you know just yet. I’ll text you and let you know when I have more details. I gotta go make sure she’s okay.” 
“Okay. Go take care of your girl Jake.” 
“Love you Sasch.”
“Love you too Jake.” He sighed, ending the call and pulling the phone away from his ear. He made his way back to the living room, where Phoenix and Bob had joined. Maverick was here apparently too. He leaned up against the wall as Maverick asked if you wanted him to call anyone for you. You shook your head. 
“Don’t have any family left. He was it.” You muttered and then looked up to him. “Where’d you go?”
“Called my sister.”
“Why?” You asked incredulously.
“Because you’re going back home and you’re staying with them. Don’t think I don’t know how much of a family they still are to you. You need to be with them right now.”
“You’re going with her.” Maverick spoke, self-assured as if the matter had been already settled. Jake startled from his position off the wall. 
“Maverick-” He started but the man cut him off with the wave of his hand. 
“It’s already been arranged. You need to be with her right now. The team will be here when you get back.” He gaped, unsure if he should thank Maverick or give him a hug. “The two of you leave tonight.” Maverick turned to Jake. “And no, you don’t get a say.” Maverick said, shoving the boarding passes into his chest. Jake clutched at the paper, mouth still wide open. The moment was ruined however, by Rooster. 
“Close that mouth Bagman, you’ll catch flies.” 
-
Hangman spotted his crew before you did. Bob had called him late the night before, stating that they had been able to make something work and that they were all going to be joining the two of you for the funeral. You’d pitched an absolute fit at the idea of having Tyler buried in a military cemetery in California and the Navy had lost that battle before it ever even started. So, the two of you were in your hometown for the funeral, and yes, even Maverick was coming. You didn’t know that yet though. He winked as he saw them come through the door, your attention still focused on his sister. His team was in their military uniforms, including him, and their team had rarely felt this cohesive. Phoenix wrapped you in a hug as everyone else crowded around and you looked over at her in surprise and shock. “What’re you doing here?” You asked, eyes flitting over the rest of the team. 
“C’mon, you think we were gonna let you do this alone?” Coyote asked, opening his arms for a hug. You smiled and gave it to him. 
“Never.” Rooster confirmed, pulling you from Coyote for his own equally tight hug. Jake’s mom wandered out from the hall. 
“C’mon, it’s starting soon. Let’s go sit.” She said, ushering the group in. Jake watched you cautiously out of the corner of his eye as you pulled Phoenix down to sit next to you through the ceremony but honestly, for what the day was, you seemed to be... okay. His parents had taken over all of the planning, leaving you and Jake to your own devices for the last week. The two of you had gone riding on his ranch and out to the lake and to the bookstore and to the diner and all the places you used to. It felt normal and right, despite the reason you were both there. You were healing on your own time and while you’d grow around the grief, and it was hard right now, he knew bringing you home had been the best decision he could’ve made. He felt someone slip their hand into his and he looked down at your hands clasped together. He wasn’t sure you even realized you did it as his sister gave a speech. He squeezed it, pulling you closer as you started to cry. As the ceremony finished up and people began to file out for the celebration of life that was happening afterwards, you stayed to talk to his sister and team. Two of the pilots who’d served with your brother, Golden and Petals, had come out for the funeral, and you chatted with them as well. Maverick wandered over from his place in the back of the room, a quiet observer as he seemed to be in most things. He clasped your shoulder and you looked up at him, quickly standing. 
“Captain.” You said, nodding your head and Jake didn’t miss the way Rooster nodded his head to everyone else, gesturing to give the two some space. Jake opted to hang back because he’d be damned if he left you right now. The two of you made small talk as the team filtered out but Jake remained planted. When Maverick noted everyone else was gone, he awkwardly cleared his throat. 
“I know... I know you didn’t want any part of the military proceedings for the funeral, but I uh, I thought you should have this.” Maverick revealed a folded up flag and Jake’s breath caught in his throat. He knew what that flag symbolized and represented, what the honor meant for Tyler. He knew you knew it too from the way you stared at Maverick. Maverick held out the flag nervously, unsure if you would take it. You instead attacked Maverick in a tight hug. Maverick had taken Tyler on a few flights, given him a bit of an education and Maverick wouldn’t admit it, but you and your brother had become an extension of his team, integral parts. Maverick returned the hug, still clutching on to the flag. Jake quickly took it from him, so that Maverick could properly hug you. You finally pulled away from the older man, tears pricking at your eyes. You laughed lightly, wiping them away. Maverick excused himself quietly, leaving you and Jake alone in the funeral hall. You took his hand and rested your chin on his chest. Jake brought your intertwined hands to his mouth and gently kissed your knuckles. 
“I don’t want to ruin the moment or the day,” He muttered, after a few moments of comfortable silence. “But we do need to talk at some point. About this, about us.” You nodded against his chest. 
“I know.” There was another brief pause as you came up to clutch Jake’s uniform. “Jake, please don’t leave me. I can’t do this without you.” He kissed the top of your head, arm now moving down to your waist to bring you close. 
“Never baby.”
-
The rest of the afternoon passed by in a blur, with Jake never once leaving your side. He refused to leave you alone, and his team stayed close as well. While Jake had another week of leave to be with you, his team had to leave early tomorrow morning. They’d wound up back at his house after the celebration of life, Maverick in the kitchen talking to his parents as the team sat in the living room with him and his sister. You were sat on the floor going through old photos with his sister, Phoenix, Rooster and Bob, as he chatted to Fanboy Coyote, and Payback. Phoenix was giggling at a photo from freshman year homecoming while Bob and Rooster had some from Halloween of your junior year. Sascha was flipping through the baby photos, trying to find the infamous one of him when you breathed sharply and stood up, sitting next to him on the couch. Coyote paused as Jake’s attention shifted to you and the photo you were holding. He took it from you, a mix of emotions settling in his chest as he registered what it was. 
There he was, tall as ever, with Tyler on his shoulders. Maybe a year or so before you’d broken up, at your Dad’s funeral. Despite Tyler being only 8 or 9 at the time, just having to bury his father, he was smiling as Jake looked up at him. 
He felt his throat close with emotion as he recalled that day, that exact moment. 
He’d held Tyler in his arms through the funeral, the boy getting to be just a little too lanky to be easy to hold but he’d wanted to be close to Jake and he was in no position to be denying what was practically his brother that. It was a bright and sunny day in their hometown, despite the fact that you’d just had to bury your father and as you stood talking to some family friends, he’d been talking to your Mom. Tyler, who’d been passed over to your Uncle after the ceremony, broke free, and raced over to him. He let out a small oof as the child collided with his legs and he looked down. He was crying and without hesitation, picked him up, and whispered “I know what will make you feel better bud.” He lifted him to his shoulders, holding him in place. He was suddenly thankful for all the conditioning Coach put them through as he bounced the kid around, still talking to your Mom as Tyler had laughed. You had smiled softly at them as you made your way over to them with his family. He had just barely heard Sascha’s words, ones he probably wasn’t meant to hear, before they decided to go back to his family’s ranch for the rest of the afternoon. 
“I hope you marry him (Y/N), I really do.” 
“What is it?” His Mom called from the doorway. He cleared his throat, trying to blink back the tears. 
“It’s Ty and I, from the funeral.” He called, still looking at the picture. 
“He loved you Jake, he really did. You were his brother and I’m sorry I ripped him out of your life.” You whispered and he shook his head, setting the picture down on the arm of the couch next to him. He grabbed your arm, pulling you into a hug as his Mom walked over to the couch to look at the photo herself. 
“None of that matters now.” He whispered into your hair as your arms wrapped around him. 
“I want you to have that photo. I mean, I guess, technically it’s already yours, but...” He chuckled, pulling away. 
“No, I- thank you.” 
-
It was the last night at home and the two of you were sat on his porch swing, sipping beers as you recounted what the two of you had been up to in the years since you’d been apart. He knew that the two of you needed to have a conversation about where things stood between the two of you but you were still grieving so he didn’t bring it up. You’d come to him when you were ready, he trusted you to do that. As the two of you looked out onto the night, the conversation lulled, a comfortable silence settling between the two of you. You were settled into his side and his arm was wrapped around you. You shifted and he looked down at you. You were looking at him with such sincere honesty he felt his mouth go dry. “Jake, I’m-” He shook his head but you kept going. “I’m sorry for making that decision so many years ago and I- I still love you. I’ve never stopped. You were the best part of me and letting you go- I was a fool. And I’ve- I’ve regretted it everyday. And-” As you asked, you had slowly shifted upwards, and he realized you were going to try to kiss him. He grabbed up my your arms, setting you back down on the swing gently. 
“(Y/N), no.” A flash of hurt crossed your face and he willed himself to keep going. “(Y/N), you’re hurting right now. Your brother just died. And I’m not going to take advantage of you like this.”
“Jake, I don’t-” 
“It wouldn’t be fair to you or me. Because the truth is, I never stopped loving you either, but emotions are running high right now, for the both of us, and it just- it isn’t a good idea.” He sighs, letting go of you. Jake loved you, but you were hurting right now and he didn’t want to get hurt because you’d only wanted him as you grieved or hurt you because he took advantage of your grief to get the girl back. He wouldn’t do that. The two of you were going to do this right. 
“Yeah, yeah. You’re right.” You whispered, pointedly not meeting his eye. 
“(Y/N), trust me. I want to, but you need time. We can talk about this in a few months when things have settled. I’m not going to go anywhere, but now’s not the time.” If Rooster and Phoenix could see him now, they’d never believe the things he was saying but he didn’t want to mess this up. You were the only girl he wanted, the only girl he’d ever loved, and he wasn’t going to do anything that would cost him you ever again. 
-
It’d been 8 months since Tyler’s funeral and the two of you were sitting in the back of his truck, eating In’N’Out and looking out at the beach and the stars. You’d settled into California life nicely, making a group of friends of your own, and although you still made your way to the Hard Deck with him at least once a week, your life was busy. The first few months had been rough but you were resilient, and continued to grow around your grief. He knew you missed Tyler, but he knew Tyler wanted you to be happy, and you were doing your best to make him proud everyday. He watched as you laughed, so carefree, and he smiled fondly, glad you were so happy. Your laughter faded as you eyed him. “What’s on your mind Seresin?” You asked, scooting closer to him. His hand, came up to push a stray piece of hair behind your ear. 
“I love you.” He whispered and your breathing stuttered. “I- I want to try again, if you think you’re ready.” 
“Jake, I-” You whispered. 
“Only if you want to.” He whispered, one of his hands finding yours. “You’ll keep me either way, but I needed to be honest.” 
“Of course I want to try again Seresin, I told you when Ty died that I never stopped loving you.” He smiled softly.
“Great, then now I can do this again without feeling guilty.” He whispered, pressing a soft kiss to your lips. It was short, just to test the waters, but you brought a hand up to rest at the nape of his neck, not letting him go far. “I’ve missed doing that.” He whispered and you smiled against his cheek. 
“Yeah, me too.” 
“You know, your brother is definitely screaming that it took us long enough.” He whispers, chuckling. You snort. 
“Way to ruin the moment.” He scoffed in protest.
“What, like I���m wrong?” 
365 notes · View notes
stephstars08 · 2 years ago
Text
Take Care ~ Chapter 1
Joe Burrow x Reader
Warnings: Adult Language, Toxic Relationship, Angst, Verbal Abuse, Anxiety, and Insecurities
Characters: Y/N Hubbard, Sidney Blossom (OC), Joe Burrow, Sam Hubbard, and Tyler Adams (OC)
Author’s Note: Before I say anything I just want to thank everyone for being so patient with me! The reason why I had to take a step back from posting is because I was a head coach for softball and that took up a lot of time and was very stressful so thank you for being patient! I am still coaching right now but I’m an assistant so I do have a lot more time on my hands. I apologize that the first chapter is short but don’t worry as the book goes on the chapters will be getting longer. Anyways it feels great to be posting again, sorry if there is any mistakes! I don’t know how many people read the Author’s Note so if you are reading this thank you for the support and I hope you enjoy the first chapter!
Word Count: 1,710
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Y/N was currently working another long day. Y/N works as a waitress at a diner in Cincinnati. The diner isn’t too far from the apartment she lives in. Yes, she’s not working her dream job at the moment but any time she get’s she fills out any applications she finds.
She doesn’t make a lot of money with this job which does hold her down sometimes when it comes to traveling or going out with friends or family. Her parents and big brother offer her money all the time, but she declines their offers.
She just turned twenty-five, she’s a grown woman and doesn’t want to borrow any money from her parents or brother.
“Hey Y/N” She heard her best friend/co-worker say behind her. “Hey Sidney.” Y/N said as she continued to press buttons on cash register.
Y/N was working on the bill for her last serving table of the day which she couldn’t be happier about.
“What are doing after you finish your last table?” Sidney asked her in a curious tone. Sidney just got done serving her last table as well. “I have to pick my brother up from the practice facility since his car is in the shop this week.” Y/N answered as she hit the button to print out the receipt.
“Why?” She asked looking over at Sidney. “I was just curious.” Sidney told her with a shrug.
“What does Tyler think about you picking your brother up?” Sidney asked as she folded her arms over her chest. “I don’t know.” Y/N answered with a sigh as she took the receipt out of the small printer. “I told him last night, but I don’t think he was listening.” She added as she put the receipt on a mental tray.
“Typical.” Sidney let out a mumble.
“Just make sure you don’t talk to another football player because you know how he get’s jealous.” Sidney warned her. Y/N just gave her a nod and made her way to the table she was serving.
Sidney isn’t the biggest fan of Tyler. Actually, everyone Y/N knows isn’t the biggest fan of Tyler.
They all know Y/N deserves to be with someone way better than Tyler.
~~~~~~~~~~
Y/N was sitting outside in her car in front of the Cincinnati Bengals practice facility for her older brother. As she sat in her car, she kept bouncing her one leg up and down because she really had to use the bathroom. She really didn’t want to go inside but she knew she wouldn’t be able to hold it because she didn’t know how long her brother would be, so she turned her car off and got out.
She quickly made way inside. She knew where the bathrooms were since she’s been inside the practice facility a few times. After she finished her business, she walked hoping her brother wasn’t outside wondering where she is. When she turned a corner, she accidentally bumped into someone.
“Oh, sorry.” Y/N heard a familiar voice she hasn’t heard in a while. When she saw who she bumped into her heart sped up. “Joe.” Y/N said in a surprised tone.
“Y/N, holy shit! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to bump into you.” Joe told her very surprised to see her.
He couldn’t believe it was her. Joe went to Ohio State University with her and her brother.
“It’s okay Joe. We both weren’t watching where we were going.” Y/N told him in a reassuring tone. “It’s been a while. You look amazing.” Joe told her with a smile. “Thank you. You look amazing too.” Y/N complimented him back as she returned the smile.
“Sam told me you just moved back here with your boyfriend.” Joe told her. “Yeah, he’s from Cleveland and I finally convinced him to move with me here since I wanted to be closer to my family. His family now lives in Chicago and… I’m babbling aren’t I.” Y/N explained to him as she put one of her hands on her head when she realized she is telling him way more than she intended to tell.
“Hey it’s okay.” Joe told her. “It’s good to have you back here.” He added with a laugh.
“Well look what we got here.” They heard someone say.
When they looked over, they saw Y/N’s older brother Sam. Joe is the quarterback of the Bengals and Sam is a defensive end. Sam is a year older than Joe and Y/N.
“We got a little reunion going on here.” Sam said with a smile as he wrapped an arm around Y/N which made her groan in disgust. “Get your sweaty ass off me.” Y/N snapped as she lightly shoved Sam off her.
“Yep, this is still how she treats me.” Sam told Joe which made her roll her eyes and Joe laugh. “Well, it’s good to see that you two still bicker.” Joe said with a laugh.
Yes, Y/N and Sam bicker like all brother and sisters do but they do have a very close relationship.
“It’s really great to see you, Joe. Sam, we got to get going.” Y/N said to the boys. Sam let out a small sigh since he knew why they had to leave right away. “Alright, I’ll see you tomorrow, Joe.” Sam said Sam said as he gave Joe a fist bump. “See you tomorrow. It was great seeing you too Y/N” Joe said as he returned the fist bump.
As much as Y/N wanted to stay and catch up with Joe she didn’t want to get an angry phone call from her boyfriend wondering where the fuck she is.
~~~~~~~~~~
Y/N pulled her car into Sam’s driveway. “Thanks again for the ride sis.” Sam said as he looked over at her. “It’s no problem bro.” Y/N said looking back at him.
“How is, you know?” Sam asked her with some concern in his tone. “Sam, please I’m really not in the mood to be talking about you know what.” Y/N told him as she looked away from her brother’s concern gaze.
“Okay, I just want you to know that I have an extra room here.” Sam told her dropping the topic right away. That isn’t the first time Sam has told her that and she knows that it isn’t going to be the last.
Y/N just stayed silent as she just stared at her steering wheel. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” Sam told her as he unbuckled his seat belt. “Love you.” Y/N told him in a soft tone. “Love you too.” Sam told her and got out of the car.
He got his bag out from the backseat and shut the door. He gave her a wave which she returned. Once Sam was inside his house Y/N backed her car out of the driveway and started her drive to the apartment she shares with her boyfriend.
As she drove, she tried not to think about what Sam told her, but his words just kept repeating themselves in her head.
When she got to the apartment complex she sighed when she saw Tyler was already home from work. He’s a mechanic which also doesn’t pay much but he does get paid more than her but not by much.
She parked her vehicle next to Tyler’s car and turned the car off. She grabbed her purse from the backseat and got out of the car.
She took a deep breath to prepare herself for Tyler’s banter.
She locked her car up and made her way inside the apartment building. She walked up the steps to her apartment door already to get scolded.
When she walked into the tiny apartment to see Tyler sitting in his comfy chair watching TV. She thinks sometimes that he lives in that stupid chair. He looked at her with an annoyed glare which was expected.
“I was with my brother.” Y/N told him before Tyler could ask her where she has been. “Why?” Tyler hissed as he watched her put her purse on the hanger by the door. “I told you last night that he needs a ride home from the facility everyday this week because his truck is getting fixed.” Y/N told him in frustration as she made her way into the small kitchen to start cooking their dinner.
Let’s just say she does everything in the apartment.
“Well maybe if you didn’t fucking mumble all the time, I would’ve heard you.” Tyler snapped at her as he put his attention back onto the television.
It took everything in Y/N to not snap back but she did it.
She wasn’t in the mood for another snapping match between them. Her relationship with Tyler wasn’t always like this. Tyler and her met at Ohio State University their junior year.
Their first two years together was amazing. They were like any other loving couple, but things changed when they graduated, and things came out the window.
After graduating Y/N agreed to move to Cleveland so Tyler could be close to his parents. After moving there Tyler found out about Y/N’s former crush he became very obsessive and jealous.
But the real hit was when his parents moved to Chicago since his father got a good job and Y/N convinced him to move to Cincinnati since there was nothing in Cleveland for him.
Tyler has been insecure about himself which makes him take it out on her. He always tells her that he’s too good for her. Anytime Tyler is feeling down on himself he puts her down too by pointing out all her flaws. She never points him out on it because sadly she believes the insults, he throws at her.
This is exactly why Sam tells her he has an extra room at his house for her. Her parents, Sam, and Sidney always tell her to break it off with Tyler because of how terrible he treats her. She always tells them that she stays with him because she loves him, but they tell her it isn’t true love it’s toxic love.
Y/N kept her mouth shut the rest of the night. What was the point of saying anything to Tyler since everything that comes out her mouth is a fucking mumble? That’s what she thought at least.
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socialanxietyrabbit · 2 years ago
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SPOILERS for Locke and Key season 3 episode 8 (final episode)
Ok, I'm done. Wow, feels weird, honestly. Can't believe it's actually over...
So, first up, Gordie and Sam. I knew it, I freaking knew it. Doesn't mean I wanted it to happen though. Gordie dying, actually giving his last breaths to make sure Kinsey, Tyler and Ellie would make it out alive... ouch. Even worse, he tried to stop Gideon from breaking free. He tried, knowing that he was gonna die, to create a literal mental block strong enough to withhold Gideon. He didn't know the echo's strength so he failed, tragically. I know he was really only important for one episode but I hoped he'd make it. And as for Sam... as mentioned in previous posts, I cared a shit ton for that guy and his involvement. He definitely deserved better that that. Although I know that it was meant as payment and "debt forgiveness". Still hate it.
Now, Gideon. Wow I hate that guy. Cheers to the actor though, I don't know his name, but the way he delivered, man, he made me angry. Real impressive acting. And super happy this dude is gone!
Rufus, Ellie, Jamie and Josh, you know I love you guys, you're great, please always stay the way you are. Love how things ended for them, eventhough I'm a little sad Josh is never gonna know the truth and Jamie will forget eventually.
Duncan and Brian deserve happiness more than anything. I love them.
Gald to know The Savinis managed to finish the film and that it was really such a big success! Good for them. I could've watched the Q&A for hours, no problems. Really surprised Scot showed up but yay! (Shave though, please. He looks so... mature. Old.) Cool line with the Good, Better and Excellent thing. And I'm happy Kinsey might join him soon <3 I would have liked to see Jordan again though, just for old times sake, yknow?
I'm glad Tyler has found his peace, or at least some kind of it. I'm still not a huge fan of the whole Carly-thing, but a road trip sounds great and if Tyler really likes Montana so much, that's amazing! I know he'll miss keyhouse and I think he's gonna come back a lot of times, as often as possible. Even without any event, just because he wants to.
I know Nina is gonna do fine. She has Josh and her Kids and Ellie. She'll be happy. Bode too. He found a best friend in Jamie and is working on being on good terms with Josh (which, BTW, amazing! Love how the made that little peace offering. I think these twos will have a great relationship and will become very close friends).
Now as for what actually happened... I do like that the keys are gone now. And I like how they chose to resolve everything. Throwing the keys in meaning closing the portals was brilliant and brings everything to a nice end. I loved the montage for it, showing bits and pieces of what the keys did and what the characters went through with them (not everything, not a lot or even the main points, just moments were it fit, nothing to sad or emotional, just... epic, in a very simple way). It was well done, that's all I have to say.
And for maybe the most important scene I can just say yes. Yes, wow, thank you. I honestly had a few tears forming when they saw Rendell again. The conversation with him brought me closer to crying than anything this season has and the hug at the end let the tears spill. It fit perfectly but was also so sad to just suddenly see them in the hallway again, still hugging, just without Rendell. It was good to have that last conversation, I think.
For now, that's all I have. It's literally 45 min till midnight and I want to sleep, but watching it was worth it. Feels like some weird sense of closure at the moment.
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jerzwriter · 3 years ago
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Just Until Midnight
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Book: Open Heart
Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)
Rating: Teen
Warnings: Language
Summary: Casey needs someone uncomplicated to pretend he’s her boyfriend at her med school roommate’s wedding. When no one is available, Ethan volunteers and it becomes very complicated. But she learns some important things along the way.
Category: Fluff – One Shot
A/N: Hello this is a request for Day 2 of Flufftober: Fake Date – Ethan and Casey
A/N 2: This is fluff, but it does have a little angst in it (not too bad).
CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS
If you wish to be added or removed from tags, please let me know. Comments and reblogs always appreciated.
Flufftober Masterlist
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She was seated at the table, scowling at her phone when he entered the office. He knew her well enough she was best left alone when she had that look on her face. So he gingerly stepped around her, careful not to make so much as a sound, as he made his way to his desk. Lost in her own little world, she never even realized he was there.
Not too long ago, being invisible to her would have upset him. While he would never admit it, he didn’t exactly hate the times when she had gazed at him like he was some immortal hero. It was a look that he would have found pathetic on most, a look he found pathetic on many, but on Casey, he couldn’t get enough. Of course, it took less than a week for him to knock himself right off the pedestal she placed him on; but after that, miraculously, things seemed to get even better between them. The bond they began to create after they mourned the loss of Dolores together grew deeper over time. Ethan Ramsey made it a point to rely on very little in this world, but he came to rely on her. He couldn’t recall the last time he enjoyed someone’s company as much as he did hers, her smile warmed his heart, her laugh enchanted him, he began to consider her… a friend. Then more. And more.
He only got to spend two nights at her side, and they were the most magical, the most tender nights he had ever known. When he left the warmth of her bed the second time, knowing it would be the last, the pain was so great he put a continent between. Upon his return he implored her to stay away, to honor the “reset” he had implemented without her consent. He couldn’t have handled things worse, and the shame he felt only widened the chasm between them.
So now he was her boss. He rarely used her name and on the rare occasion when their eyes met, he saw sadness, until it became anger, and now, nothing at all. He stole a look at her as he settled into his desk to tackle the bevy of e-mails that awaited him, but the quiet did not last long.
“Damn it!” she yelled, tossing her phone so forcefully, he thought for sure it was done for. It wasn’t, he took note of the case, he’d buy an Otterbox later that day. She was startled to find him there.
“Oh. I didn’t hear you come in.”
“I walked right past you.”
“I didn’t notice.”
“Is everything OK?”
“Yep, everything is peachy.”
Whistling and a slamming door announced Baz’s arrival.
“Casey, I got your message. Sorry, no can do, that’s the weekend our cousin is getting married. Is Bryce sure he can’t go?”
Casey’s eyes widened, trying to silently get Baz to stop talking, but he didn’t get the clue.
“I mean, Bryce, Elijah, me, even Zaid, all busy the same day? What are the chances?”
Casey’s eyes were now saucers and she desperately tried to change the subject. But Baz was undeterred.
“You know, you should ask that intern, what’s his name? Tyler something? He seems to have the hots for you, Case! But then again, you wanted no complications, so.”
She dropped her head into her hands. “Baz. Could you stop talking… please.”
He looked up to find Ethan staring curiously between him and Casey.
“Oh, hi Ethan.” He looked at Casey and shrugged. “So what, he’s not going to care.”
Shaking her head, Casey rose from her seat and began heading out of the office.
“I’m going to go get some water.”
“We have water in here,” Ethan offered.
“Nope, I want different water,” she yelled as she made her escape from the room.
“What was that all about?” Ethan asked.
“She’s in search of a fake date. One of her med-school friends is getting married and her ex is going to be there, with his new, actually a model girlfriend, and she doesn’t want to show up stag.”
“What? That’s preposterous! What does she have to be ashamed of? She saved Naveen’s life. She has received accolades within the medical community, near and far. She’s the youngest person ever to be on our team, and she’s threatened by… a model?”
“She’s not threatened, Ethan. She just doesn’t want to be the only one sitting at the table when everyone else is dancing, especially when her jackass ex is dancing with Ellie Saville.”
“Ellie Saville? The Ellie Saville?”
“Yep. That Ellie Saville. Wow, if you know who she is, she must be popular. And you wonder why Casey is wigging? I think she may end up not going at all. Ah well. Hey, you should offer to take her.”
“Baz, I’m Casey’s boss.”
“I’m not suggesting you marry her, it’s a fake date. Do her the favor.”
“Baz, if she wanted to, she would ask and she hasn’t. Which is a good thing because I would have to decline. Now, I think the matter is closed.”
“If you say so.”
____________________
Later in the day, Ethan was making his way through the hall when he heard Casey speaking with Dr. Trinh and Dr. Varma. He purposely moved into an empty room nearby, just to listen in. He shook his head in disbelief.
What the hell has become of me?
“You know Casey, I’d go, but I have to stay here and cover for you. Or I could not cover for you, then you could honestly say you can’t go.”
“I can’t not go, Jackie. Leah was too good of a friend. I would have never made it out of med school without her.”
“Oooh, I know!” Sienna interjected, “What about that cute doctor you were telling us about?”
“What cute doctor?”
“You know, the one who gave Aurora the job, what was it…”
“Dr. Carrick!” Jackie said, snapping her fingers. “That would be perfect! Aurora said he was totally into you.”
Ethan’s heart almost stopped beating.
“Well, he did say to call him, and I plan on; but I didn’t want to bring anyone who could end up being an actual thing,” Casey shrugged, “but I guess it’s as good of a time as any to see if it can be.”
She took her phone out of her pocket and began to enter a message when Ethan came barreling in their direction.
“Dr. MacTavish! I have been looking all over for you.”
She looked down at the phone, already in her hand.
“I am at the nurse's station. The one outside our office. And I don’t see any messages?”
“That’s not important, come with me. I need to consult with you on a case, it’s urgent.”
“Oh, of course. I’ll see you two later.”
Ethan closed the door behind him as they entered the office.
“What is it, Dr. Ramsey? It seems important.”
“It is,” he answered flustered. Flustered because Casey, his Casey, his Rookie, had Tobias Carrick’s number in her phone. He didn’t even know that she knew the man. He could not let her ask him. “…who could end up being an actual thing….” her words played over and over in his ears. Oh, he was not going to be an actual thing. Ethan began to sweat.
“Ethan,” she asked concerned, “Can I get you something? Some water perhaps? Are you the emergency? What’s wrong?”
He was cornered.
“Yeah, get me water.”
He moved to the couch and motioned for her to join him.
“So, I hear you have this wedding coming up, and you need…”
Her face went red.
“Who told you? Tell me. Tell me right now because I need to find them, and then I need to kill them.”
“If you kill someone, we will have no choice but to remove you from the residency program.”
“Not if a body is never found.”
“Before you commit a felony and I’m arrested as an accessory, can we get back to you needing a date for your friend’s wedding? How I found out is irrelevant.”
“Ethan, the whole thing is really none of your business. Imagine how preposterous you would think it was if the shoe were on the other foot, I dare say that…”
“Why didn’t you ask me?” He asked softly.
He sounded equal parts hurt and offended and Casey was not having it. She crossed her arms over her chest and shot him a look that would have reminded him how stupid his question was, even if he hadn’t already realized it himself.
“We’re not doing this again, Ethan. We’re not. You barely even look at me anymore. Never mind a relationship, any semblance of friendship we had is all but gone. You have made it painfully clear to me that we are “reset”. Yet I was supposed to ask you on a date?”
“Well, but… it… but it wouldn’t be an actual date. Did you ask Baz on an actual date? Or Raf, or…”
“That’s different, Ethan, and you know it. They’re friends. They never slept with me and they never ran off to the Amazon to forget me. They never came back to tell me…”
“All right, I know. I know!” He inhaled deeply and turned toward her. “I know our history. I know how much I’ve messed things up and… I know I miss the way we once were. When we talked to each other, relied on each other when we were…”
“Friends?”
“Yes, friends before …”
“Before it got all messed up?”
“Casey, I’d like to get back to that and, maybe this can give us a chance.”
“So, you think that you, my boss, my former lover, the man that I have a ton of unresolved feelings for, and I know you have them for me too… you would be my best choice for an uncomplicated fake date? That somehow the two of us pretending to be out together would restore our friendship? I’m starting to question if your mind is as brilliant as I once believed.”
“Look, I know it sounds absurd but what we have been doing hasn’t been helping the situation, has it? Maybe that’s the wrong approach, instead of avoidance… maybe we should work on what we were before it all went crazy. It’s one day and you know I won’t let things go too far. What do you say?”
____________________
“You said no, right?” Jackie asked incredulously. “Right? I’m waiting on the ‘right’, Casey!”
Casey looked up at the ceiling and let out a groan.
Jackie threw her hands in the air. “Casey, what the fuck are you thinking?”
“Your brain has honestly lost control of this situation,” Elijah added.
“Thank you, guys, thank you! The love and support I’m getting here is just overwhelming!”
Sienna attempted to soften the blow, “I thought you were going to ask Dr. Carrick? Why don’t you call him? If he says yes, just tell Ethan that a friend was able to go after all.”
“Thanks, Si, but I think that would just complicate things at this point.”
“Complicate? Do you know what’s complicated? Why do you think he asked you? He heard our conversation. He knew you were going to ask someone for real, for real, and he had to stop it.” Jackie shook her head, “Oh, Case, he played you like a fiddle. He can’t have you, but he doesn’t want anyone else to either.”
“Jackie, you know what, you’re… you’re… oh, God, you’re absolutely right. And I am a complete idiot!”
“Thanks, Jackie,” Sienna glared.
“Hey, reality is a friend. She needs to know what she stepped into.”
“What are you going to do, Case?”
“At this point? I’m going to go. I can’t back out now without making things even more weird. I’ll go, I’ll dance with Ethan, and let Jonathan see me. He can believe he was all wrong about me, that I’m not all work and no heart, that I have it all. Then I’ll slink into the passenger seat of Ethan’s car and head back to Boston knowing that Jonathan actually was right about me all along.”
Sienna placed her hand on Casey’s shoulder, “Oh, Casey, that’s not true, that’s not true at all. Look, I think it would be better if…”
Casey lifted Sienna’s hand and gave it a squeeze, “It’s OK, Sienna,” she smiled sadly, “that’s just how it’s going to go. But it will be fine.”
____________________
It was the early morning hours of Leah’s wedding day, and, despite Casey’s predictions of doom, she found herself in good spirits. A morning jog, one of her favorite banana muffins, and a long hot shower left her almost looking forward to the day.
She struggled with what to wear, finally selecting a romantic, shell pink lace dress she purchased simply because she loved it. She knew the perfect occasion would arrive and it seemed to have presented itself. She slid into the delicate lace sheath that skimmed perfectly over her curvaceous frame. Sienna fastened the small, pearl buttons that extended from the nape of her neck down to the small of her back. The delicate scalloped hem fell perfectly below her thigh and the antique pearl necklace her grandmother gave her sat just above her delicate, perfumed cleavage. She put her hair up, then put it down, then put it up again. Sienna watched as she touched up her already perfect make-up, then changed her shoes for the umpteenth time, finally settling on the strappy nude sandals she bought just last night.
Sienna knew, Casey knew, but neither admitted it to the other: Casey was getting her hopes up. Unbeknownst to Casey, her best friend had traded days off with another resident just to be there at the end of the night. Just in case. Casey’s mind was racing. She had accepted that she and Ethan would never be, she had let go of that fantasy. Or did she? There was no denying that feeling that was creeping up inside her again no matter how hard she tried to tamper it down.
But why else would he have asked you? Why else would he have cared if I brought someone else? Why else would he want to spend the day with me? What if….
She shook her head, unwilling to let her thoughts stray anymore than they already had.
The doorbell rang, and she froze in place.
“Would you like me to get it?” Sienna asked.
“No, I’m all set. Plus, I don’t want to expose him to Jackie.”
“That’s probably for the best,” Sienna smiled.
“Sienna, thank you for helping me.”
“Oh, that’s what friends are for!”
“Well, I’ve got the best.” Casey let out a loud sigh, “Here goes nothing.”
When she swung the door open, Ethan was standing there, looking every bit like the man she had fallen in love with. She hadn’t seen him in a tuxedo since that night in Miami, and she found him ever bit as irresistible now as she did then.
This was a bad idea.
“Hi, Ethan. You look… you look incredible.”
He couldn’t answer at first, lost in the way the soft tendrils were dripping from her upswept hair, falling onto along the soft skin on her neck. The gentle pout of her pale pink lips and the way her crystal blue eyes gazed up at him from under her long lashes left him speechless. He had every intention of replying, but the truth was, she took his breath away.
This was a bad idea.
“Hi… Casey… you look…”
“Decent.”
“That was not the word I was reaching for at all, truth is, I couldn’t find one good enough.”
Her cheeks flushed and he felt an unusual feeling in his chest when he saw the corners of her lips turn up ever so slightly. Was that… hope? He found it exhilarating and terrifying, all at once.
“Are you ready?” He asked with a smile.
“Yes, I… oh, I forgot my phone. Can you just give me one second? I’ll be right back.”
“Of course.”
She moved quickly down the hall and opened the apartment door just in time to catch her roommates scurrying away from the window. Realizing they were caught, they simply grinned.
“Smooth, guys. Real smooth.”
“Casey,” Sienna said softly, “Good luck. I think… I think you’re going to need it.”
“Et tu, brute?”
Ethan was pacing when Casey returned, he smiled at once and almost extended his arm for her to take. Then he reminded himself… this was just a fake date. Casey did her best to pretend that she did not notice, and she tried even harder to pretend that she did not care.
Well, she is wearing heels, and it wouldn’t be right…a gentleman would off her his… wouldn’t he….
By the time Ethan finished his thought process Casey looked up to him from the bottom of the steps.
“Ethan, are you joining me?” she grinned.
“Yes,” he blushed, “of course.”
They walked down the street toward his car, side by side, with Casey clutching her purse in front of her as if it were a protective shield. She saw his car in the distance and her mind started to race.
Please don’t hold the door open for me. Please don’t hold the door open for me. Please don’t hold the door open for me.
… and he walked to the passenger’s side to open the door for her.
“Thank you,” she demurred as she sunk into the seat.
Her breath hitched as she watched him walk around the front of the car, and a feeling she thought she had long buried began to envelop her as he sat next to her.
“According to GPS, it’ll take us a little over an hour to get there. I guess you should make yourself comfortable.”
Fat chance.
After a few minutes of silence, followed by some inane small talk, Casey broached the topic.
“Well, I guess we should discuss parameters.”
“Parameters? “
“Yes, parameters. You know, what we should and should not do today.”
“I know what parameters are, Casey. But I’m not going to do anything inappropriate, you don’t have to worry.”
“Yeah, God forbid,” she mumbled under her breath.
“Excuse me?”
“Oh, nothing. It’s just, you see…. if you’re supposedly my boyfriend and you do absolutely nothing inappropriate it will be pretty obvious that I’m making this all up, essentially making me look even more pathetic than if I would have just shown up alone….” taking in the exasperated expression on Ethan’s face, she found her own falling, “… which is probably exactly what I should have done.”
Ethan turned to her, her head now facing out the window, her posture, so proud and confident just moments before, now slouched and defeated.
This was a bad idea.
The last thing he wanted to do was hurt Casey. He had put distance between them, but now that she was close to him, he remembered, that was all he seemed to do. He didn’t get the details, he didn’t bother. One thought of her attending this wedding with someone else, with Tobias of all people, and all reason left his mind. He had to try to repair this, this couldn’t be just another repeat where his best intentions just lead to more heartbreak for both of them. Not today.
“I’m sorry, Casey. I guess we never discussed it. I knew you needed a date for tonight, but…was there more?”
“My ex, Jonathan, will be there. Jonathan left me because I was too into my studies, my career and he said I didn’t have a heart. Translated, I didn’t let my world revolve around him. He’s going to be there with his new girlfriend, a literal model, and I know this is pathetic because I know my worth… I know what I have achieved, I know I’m going to be a phenomenal doctor, and goddammit, I look like a goddamn snack in this dress to boot.”
Ethan couldn’t help but smile.
“Yes,” he chortled, “all of those things are true. So why are you letting this loser get to you.”
Casey stared out the window as the scenery rushed by, her eyes desperately searching for something, anything, that she could use to dab the tears that she expected to flow in three, two, … Ethan handed her a tissue that he retrieved from the center console.
“Thank you.” She dabbed the corner of her eye and looked at Ethan.
“Why do I let him get to me? Because deep down I wonder…. what if he’s right?”
“Casey! Stop that. You know damn well he’s not…”
“I know nothing of the sort, Ethan. All I know is I’m nearly thirty years old and outside of two years in college, I haven’t been able to hold a relationship together for the life of me. And don’t give me the ‘oh, you’ve been focused on your career’ speech. I know I have, and that’s fine. But…,” she turned her head and stared straight at him, “that has never been all that I wanted, yet… now here I am finding a warm body to take me to a wedding and asking him to pretend they care.”
“Casey…”
“I’m sorry, Ethan. This was very nice of you, but clearly, this wasn’t a good idea. Could we maybe, could we just turn around and head back to Boston. I’ll tell Leah something came up.”
“Is that what you want?”
“I think it’s for the best.”
Ethan silently nodded as he moved his car into the right lane. But as he approached the exit, he kept driving.
“Ethan, you passed the exit, you were supposed to get off there to go back to…”
“We’re not going back; you’re going to Leah’s wedding. We’ll have a few drinks, we’ll share a few dances, I’ll hang on every word you say… and after Jonathan has had a good eyeful, then, and only then, will we return to Boston.”
“You don’t have to.”
“I know I don’t,” he smiled, “but I want to.”
“It’s kind of you to offer, Ethan, but do you think it’s a good idea… I mean, we’re not just random friends, it’s you and me, and… this is dangerous.”
He reached across the console and took her hand in his, giving it a tight squeeze.
“It’s only dangerous if we let it be, Casey.”
She looked down at their intertwined hands.
It already is.
They pulled up to a stately old mansion and a valet came to open Casey’s door, followed by a sharply dressed concierge who directed them to the garden where the cocktail reception and ceremony would take place. Casey found a table in the farthest corner, almost out of anyone’s line of sight. Ethan returned to her with two glasses of wine, placing one into her hands. Being so close to him, Casey felt her body doing things it hadn’t in some time, and she didn’t know if she wanted it to continue or stop.
“Were you ashamed to be seen with me,” he smiled, noting the location.
“No, quite the opposite, I’m worried that you won’t want to be seen with me.”
His eyes shot to hers as if he would ever feel that way, yet, he understood exactly why she said it. In another world, he would have her on his arm and show her off to everyone at every step. But in this world, the only one they had, even when they were more than two lost souls searching for the answer to the riddle fate put in their way, they were relegated to the shadows So, of course, this is where she would lead them. He was ashamed, and he was about to take her hand and lead her to a table just at the entrance when she spoke.
“Leah was my roommate in med school. I would not have made it through without her, and vice versa. She is a wonderful woman and a brilliant doctor. She is currently finishing her residency at Lahey in Burlington.”
“Excellent program.”
“It is. Her name is Dr. Leah Bradford.”
“How ironic! Dr. Benjamin Bradford is out of Lahey, and he is….” Ethan looked at Casey with wide eyes.
“He is her father,” Casey finished. She watched as he valiantly attempted to keep terror from spreading over his face, but his eyes gave it away.
“What’s more, she’s marrying an old family friend, they’ve known each other since grade school. He is an attorney, Nathan Rivera. His mother is Dr. Amelia Rivera.
“From Tufts?”
“Yes. I figured you, Benny and Amelia may be acquainted. I’m sorry Ethan, you might not believe me, but I really never gave this any thought until right now and… I’m more than happy to leave. I don’t want to put you in an awkward situation.”
“You know what, we should leave.”
Although she offered it as a solution, it wasn’t the answer she wanted to hear. Her eyes fluttered as she lowered her head.
“We should find a better table than this. How on earth is Jonathan going to see us if we’re all the way back here.”
“You... you want to stay?”
“I agreed to be your date for this wedding, did I not? I’d be kind of an ass if I didn’t. Shall we?”
He extended his hand and she smiled as she accepted it. He pulled back her chair at a small table for two located just past the entrance, it would be impossible for anyone to miss them there.
“Are you sure?” she whispered.
“If I’m your fake boyfriend, Casey, you may want to refrain from asking me such foolish questions for the rest of the day. Now, is this where we should begin engaging in conversation as I hang on every word you say?”
“Yes, I think that would be good, but you forgot you also need to lovingly gaze at me.”
Ethan swallowed. “I think I can manage that.”
For the next half hour, the two of them chatted away, laughing and smiling, so into each other that even though friends, colleagues, and even Johnathan passed by, no one dared to interrupt them and, the funny thing was, neither Casey nor Ethan noticed anyone walk by.
Bells chimed indicating the ceremony was about to start. Ethan stood and took her by the hand and they found a seat right on the aisle. He stood behind her as they waited for the bride to arrive, and he noticed someone staring from across the way. Wrapping his hand around her waist, he leaned in close to whisper in her ear.
“Don’t look now, but is that he of whom we shall not speak two rows ahead?”
Casey swiveled her head, making it appear as if she were turning to look up at Ethan to sneak a peek.
“Mmmm hmmmm. It is.” she muttered.
“God,” he whispered, “he wasn’t worthy of you to begin with.”
Then, without even realizing he was going to do it, he leaned in and kissed Casey’s neck. Her eyes almost betrayed her, but as if she was an actress, she blissfully gave into the role they were playing for the night. Her body leaned back into him as he gently nibbled on her neck, her ear. No one would have thought they weren’t together, and each of them ached inside, wishing that they were.
They were both afraid of what this could awaken, but for tonight, they had given each other permission to be what they had imagined so many times before, and even if it was make-believe, it was so much more than they ever thought they would get to share. They were going to relish in it, secretly praying that the night would never end.
They held hands, and danced, he put his arm around her and caressed her back as she talked to the couple seated beside them. She introduced him to Leah and her new husband as her “boyfriend Ethan” and he did not flinch. When Leah’s father approached them and teased Ethan about not being worthy of such a beautiful and brilliant woman, clearly aware of who Casey was, Ethan said, “I know,” and smiled.
Casey was laughing hysterically as they walked off the dance floor when she literally crashed into Jonathan and Ellie. She had all but forgotten he was there. She had come to the wedding tonight in hopes of proving something to him, and as the night progressed, she realized she had nothing to prove.
“Hello, Jonathan. It’s lovely to see you,” she beamed as Ethan wrapped his arms around her waist, trying not to scowl at him too viciously since Casey was handling things so well.
“Yeah, uh, Casey. It’s good to see you too.”
“Oh, please allow me to introduce you to Ethan…”
“Dr. Ramsey, yes, I’m well aware of who you are. It’s very nice to meet you, sir, I’ve always admired your work. I know Casey has as well.”
“Well, he is brilliant,” Casey gushed. She then awkwardly looked to Jonathan to introduce the woman on his arm.
“Oh, where are my manners? This is my girlfriend, Ellie.”
“It’s lovely to meet you,” Casey smiled.
As quickly as the encounter began, it ended “Well, we really should go. The night isn’t really young any longer and there is so much more to enjoy.”
Casey felt her heart sink as she walked away. As proud as she was of herself for how she handled that, she became acutely aware that Ethan was not her boyfriend. That tonight was an act. She was Cinderella and, as much as she wanted this dream to last forever, the clock would soon strike twelve and it would all be over. Her heart ached at the thought, but she wasn’t going to waste the little time they had left being sad. She promised herself that she would not let the memory of this night turn into anything that would cause her pain, it was a precious gift that was afforded to her, and she resigned herself to treasure it for the rest of her days.
“So, what is it that you’d still like to do, Casey?”
“Why don’t we take a walk over by the gazebo. It’s lit up so pretty.”
“It’s a bit of a walk, but I don’t mind if you don’t.”
“I don’t,” she smiled.
“Then, after you.”
They made their way over without saying a word, his arm draped over her shoulder, hers wrapped tightly behind his waist. They listened as the music and laughter of the party became no more than a soft noise in the distance, replaced by sounds of crickets and the gentle wind as it rustled through the late summer leaves.
The gazebo was adorned with thousands of twinkling white lights, giving off an ethereal glow to all in its vicinity. They were alone and far removed from the happy chaos of the large wedding behind them. Casey sat down on the steps and Ethan sat beside her. Without asking, he took off his jacket and placed it around her shoulders when he saw her shivering. She smiled, the gesture was so kind, but he didn’t realize that her shivering had less to do with the chilly breeze and more to do with her proximity to him. She leaned into him and he wrapped his arms around her.
“Thank you for tonight, Ethan. I really thought it would end up horribly, but it was so much better than I could have ever dreamed.”
“Well, I’m always happy to make a dream or two come true for you, Rookie. I hope you know that.”
Her eyes clenched shut and she bit her lip at the sound of her old nickname. Hearing Casey all night was enough after being called Dr. MacTavish, and no more, for so long. She promised she wasn’t going to let herself get sad, but as the moments ticked away, that promise became harder and harder to keep. Ethan noticed her silence and tilted her face toward him, that’s when he could see the tears she was fighting desperately to hide glistening behind her beautiful blue eyes.
“I have learned so much tonight. I came here feeling I had something to prove to someone who shouldn’t even be a thought in my mind. But then again, it wasn’t him I had to prove it to, it was me all along. I let it all get in my head and I already had myself going down this dark, narrow path that would only allow for fulfillment in one area of my life, and, foolishly, I allowed myself to believe that’s how it would be. But, tonight, I realized that is not my future, it never could be and, when it’s right for me, it will happen. I have no doubt in my mind.” She turned away, “I feel so much better, my faith in myself is restored.”
She wrapped her arms around herself and looked up at Ethan. “You are always teaching me, one way or another, good or bad. I came to Edenbrook because I wanted to learn from the best, but I had no idea how broad those lessons would be. Thank you for tonight, Ethan. I will never, ever forget it.”
His eyes were now glistening as much as hers and he had to wait a moment before he could speak.
“You always credit me with teaching you, Rookie,” his hand brushed a few errant hairs behind her ear, “But you never seem to realize just how much you have taught me. The truth is, you’ve taught me things I am not sure I would have ever learned if our paths hadn’t crossed and, though it’s not always been easy, I’m just so very glad that they did.”
Casey looked at her watch and grimaced. Wiping a tear from her cheek she said “Well, pretty soon the coach is about to turn back into a pumpkin. Then I turn back into a resident and you return to being my attending, but for the next fifteen minutes, I’m not letting go of this dream.”
Ethan leaned over and kissed the top of her head.
“What is it you’d like to do with those last fifteen minutes, hon.”
“I’d like to dance, but the music is too far away.”
“No, it’s not,” he smiled, taking out his phone. “I have a song in mind.”
Someday, when I'm awfully low
When the world is cold
I will feel a glow just thinking of you
And the way you look tonight
“Sinatra,” she smiled.
“You listen to Sinatra?” He said shocked.
“I’m not a heathen, Ethan. Besides, my Dad used to dance to this with me and my Mom when I was little.”
“Well, I will never profess to be half the man that your dad is, but would you do me the honor of dancing to this with me.”
“Yes. I’d love to.”
She all but jumped into his arms and they swayed together to the music. They both knew every word by heart and they held each other a little closer as the last verse began.”
Lovely, don't you ever change
Keep that breathless charm
Won't you please arrange it?
'Cause I love you
Just the way you look tonight
Just the way you look tonight
The music stopped but their embrace continued without a word spoken, they clung to each other as if they never wanted to let go, because they didn’t. Each was trying to push off a moment that they knew was inevitable, but they were happy to live in the lie, that was really such a truth, surrounding them.
“Oh, sir, ma’am,” the concierge said startled, “I certainly didn’t mean to interrupt, but the reception has ended, and the lights will be turned off…”
“It’s no worry, we were just leaving anyway,” Ethan said sadly.
After saying their goodbyes to the newlyweds, they began to walk up front to the valet. Ethan noticed Casey taking smaller steps, but then she stopped and pulled him alongside the building, almost in desperation.
“Casey, what is it? Are you..”
“Shh. Shhh… Ethan, please promise me one thing? Promise me that when we get into the car now, promise me not to talk about any of this. OK?”
He watched as her eyes filled and her words became more breathless, he wanted nothing more than to soothe her, to restore the peace he had seen in her all night.
“Ethan I don’t want to ruin this memory, it’s too perfect, so, once we’re in the car, and everyday hereafter, let’s not discuss it, let’s not lament or regret it, let's just be happy that it happened and that nothing can ever take it away from us. OK?”
His tears now matched hers, one for one, in their race to the ground beneath them.
“Casey, I’m so… I … in another life, in another….”
“Shhhhhh! No! This is exactly what I mean! We knew it was just a night, one we never expected to have, but got lucky enough to share. One perfect night, of you and me, let’s not ruin it ok.”
He went to speak,
“Please!” She pleaded.
“OK.”
Casey smiled and reached up and kissed him, but it was no ordinary kiss. It was born of years of unmet longing breaking free, and it was also predicated on the need to satisfy and sustain for a lifetime to come. When he would roll over at night to find the empty space she should be filling, he’d remember this kiss. When she knew that the one embrace that could soothe her soul, or share her joy, was not within her reach, this is the moment that would nourish her for an eternity. When their lips reluctantly parted they knew that the clock had chimed twelve times and no fairy godmother would save them. So they smiled. Words were not needed. They knew all that had to be said, and it was now time to part.
Ethan held her hand the entire, wordless ride back to Boston. When they arrived at her door, she wanted to jump out of the car and rush in to avoid the difficult goodbye, but she didn’t. Instead, she allowed him to open her door, to help her out, to walk her to the hall and embrace her one, long time.
“I’ll never forget tonight,” she whispered.
“Neither will I,” he choked.
They moved toward each other, but each pulled back quickly.
“Good night, Casey.”
“Good night, Ethan.”
She closed the door behind her and bolted toward her room. She didn’t want twenty questions from her friends, she didn’t want looks of judgment or sympathy, she just wanted to wrap herself in the memories of tonight. Memories that would need to keep her heart warm until the day she could move past Dr. Ethan Ramsey, a day she was not sure she would ever live to see. While her eyes began to tear she stopped herself. This is not how this night was going to end. She may not be able to have Ethan, but that did not mean that she could not love him, and she did, and she always would, and nothing could ever take that, or this night, away from her. And in her sadness, that brought the comfort she desperately needed.
Ethan sat back in the seat of his car and let out a deep sigh. Thirty-six years to find everything he never knew he wanted, he needed and there she was. The key that unlocked his heart, the shiny stone that could complete the beautiful mosaic that could be his life. Letting her go of her never became easier, and why would it? It was the most unnatural thing he had ever done. But like Casey, now crouched down on her bedroom floor just two levels above him, he resolved not to tarnish the memory of this perfect day. He steeled himself, took the car out of park, and drove away.
He drove around in circles for nearly an hour, though his apartment was just ten minutes away. He didn’t have the heart to go home alone after the night they shared. He considered going to the hospital and spending the night there. He honestly didn’t know what to do. Then, for the first time all night, he noticed the message light blinking on his phone.
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His fairy godfather. He didn’t need Naveen’s permission, nor approval. In fact, deep down, he knew that he had that all along. So, while it helped, that was not what propelled him to turn his car around and rush to Casey’s apartment, cursing every light he hit along the way. At one of those lights, he passed a corner fruit stand with flowers for sale outside. He called over a teenage boy.
“Hey, I have a hundred-dollar bill, can you run in and get me a bunch of those flowers, the pink and white ones, you can keep the change.”
“Hell, yeah,” he replied.
The light changed as the boy came running from the store, horns honked behind him.
“You’re just going to have to wait, pal!” Ethan yelled, grabbing the flowers from the teen's hands.
“You may not know it,” he told him, “but you just played a part in one of the greatest love stories of all time.”
“Cool. But I also made $80 for running in to get flowers, so all in all, a fantastic night.”
Ethan smiled as he drove away.
He rushed up the stairs to Casey’s front door and rang her bell maniacally. Elijah was the first at the window to see who the crazy person was ringing the bell. When he saw Ethan with the flowers in hand, a desperate smile on his face, he didn’t know what to make of it at first; but then, somehow, he just knew.
“Hey, Casey,” he yelled.
She was now in her pajamas making herself a cup of coffee in the kitchen.
“Casey, I think you should answer that.”
“What, why? I’m not even dressed.”
“Please just listen, for once, you need to get this.”
“OK,” she shrugged making her way there.
“What’s going on?” Sienna asked.
“Just get your ass over to the window with me, you’re going to want to watch this.”
Casey opened the door and was taken aback to see Ethan, a look of utter desperation on his face, standing there, a bouquet of pink and white roses, just like her dress tonight, in hand.
“Ethan,” she said perplexed, “what are you doing here, is everything ok?”
“Everything is wonderful,” the words rushed out of his mouth as if he wasn’t waiting, afraid something would try to stop them. “Or at least I hope it is. Casey, tonight showed me, tonight made it painfully clear that what we share, it’s not a joke, it’s not an infatuation, what we have is the real thing. It’s love. We’ve always known it, haven’t we, but we… especially me… I’ve fought it and put so much in its way, but, Casey, after tonight, I can’t do that anymore. I don’t care what we have to do to make it work, I don’t care. The truth of the matter is, nothing matters more than you, nothing matters more than us and I’m willing to take any risk to make a future, and the present, with you a reality. That’s if you want the same thing, Casey, and I’m standing here hoping, hoping so much, that you feel the exact same way. What do you say, Casey? Do you want it too?”
She was silent and his discomfort grew with every second that she didn’t answer, but he waited.
“Ethan, I… I don’t know what to say… I… “
“Say what's in your heart, Casey. Please, just say what’s in your heart.”
“What’s in my heart? What’s in my heart is… is… that I love you, Ethan, I love you so much and I think I always have. I want nothing more than to be with you, to be yours, but only if you’re sure… I need you to be sure because I can’t lose you again.”
“Casey, I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. I love you, and I don’t want to spend another day without you at my side.”
“Then, then… YES! Yes, Ethan, let’s do this.”
He dropped the flowers, grabbing her in his arms and spinning her around. He placed her back on the ground and kissed her head what felt like a thousand times before they shared a long, passionate kiss.
He retrieved the flowers he had dropped and handed them to her. She blushed and held them to her nose to take in the lovely aroma as accepted them. Then, without warning, he scooped her up into his arms and began carrying her down the steps.
“What? What are you doing?”
“I’m taking you home. I love you, Casey MacTavish, I love you so much.”
“I love you, too!”
She threw her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek as he carried her off to the bright, happy future that awaited them.
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See, I can do happy too. :) Permatags: @adiehardfan @barbean @binny1985 @bluebelle08 @bluerosesbloom @brokenmemoriesblog @charisworld @chemist-ana @custaroonie @everybodyscreamsposts @icecoffee90 @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kachrisberry @kalinahonore @lady-calypso @liaromancewriter @mia143 @mjlbwork @mm2305 @phoenixrising308 @pixelberrygirl @potionsprefect @schnitzelbutterfingers @secretaryunpaid @shewillreadyou @shygirl4295 @socalwriterbee @thegreentwin @toadfrog26 @txfledglingscribe @wanderingamongthewildflowers
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darklydeliciousdesires · 3 years ago
Text
Verboten - Chapter Twenty One.
A warm welcome to my new readers, thrilled to have you on board! Thank you to everyone for your continued interest, too! :)
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Previous chapters - One  Two  Three  Four  Five  Six  Seven  Eight  Nine  Ten  Eleven  Twelve  Thirteen  Fourteen  Fifteen  Sixteen  Seventeen  Eighteen  Nineteen  Twenty
Visuals - The Verboten cast of characters post
Words - 3,887
Warnings - Smut! 
Tag list - In the comments! To be added/removed, please DM me :)
“Wow, it’s morning and you’re here,” Zoey mumbled, Tyler curling around her, kissing her back as he tightened his arm over her waist, murmuring sleepily until he felt awake enough to reply.  
“And neither of us has anywhere to be either. I felt great when I woke up, those fleeting moments before my brain engaged and I remembered why I’m here, but we’re gonna have enough of that to deal with from external forces. When it’s just you and me, let’s just be happy, hmm? We’ve felt bad for long enough about it, I don’t want all of this negativity to impact our relationship.”
“That’s very poignant for five past seven, Tyler.” He laughed at words, tickling her until she squealed. “You’re right, though. Like yeah, we know all of this is our fault, but I don’t want us to be miserable. We’ll have enough of that coming at us as all of this unfolds. Selfish as it is, we’ve got what we wanted. We might as well at least try and be happy,” she confirmed, reaching for her water bottle, rinsing her mouth, Tyler doing the same before she received plentiful morning kisses.  
“Well, in the spirit of being happy.” Hitching up her nightie, he pulled her leg to rest over his hip, slipping his fingers into her mouth. “Get ‘em nice and wet, baby.” Just being told that made her tingle, sucking on the thick digits that made her insides throb, Tyler replacing them for his tongue, their kisses heating up as he began to rub her folds.  
Stroking his face as they kissed, she shuddered against the fingertips evoking tingles as they circled her clit, Zoey thinking to herself that this was the very first time she’d get to enjoy Tyler being all hers. ‘He’s mine, my boyfriend.’ The thrill of wanting someone she knew was off limits was now replaced by the thrill of knowing they could finally be together.  
“Ahhh, fuck!” She exclaimed, his mouth slipping to her neck, tongue dragging the column of her throat as he pressed his fingers inside her, seeking her spots, pressing hard where he knew he’d make her see stars. He burrowed into her, circling, hooking, raking her soft plush, her core tightening, his fingers becoming more slippery as he began slowly dragging her walls.  
“I love how wet you always get for me, baby. Fuck, you feel amazing.” He breathed, his mouth closing over her nipple, a gruff groan rattling his throat.  
“Yeah, you do. Love feeling my drenched little pussy flexing on your giant cock, don’t you? Fuck, I want you to pin me down and fill me so badly.” Arousal arrowed right to his loins at hearing her tell him that, whispering that she was a temptress as he shifted between her thighs and entered her with a sweeping thrust.  
Taking both of her wrists in one of his big hands, he held her arms above her head, pinning her to the bed as she’d requested, the other gently clutching her face as he kissed her with staggering passion. “Is this a good way to see in the morning, or what?”
“Yeah, getting railed by nine inches of perfection? Definitely beats anything else I could think of.” Letting go of her face, he moved his hand between her legs, beginning to rub her clit in time with each thrust, Zoey mewling breathlessly at the glimmers prickling down her spine, her slick muscles twitching around him.  
The heat of him, the thickness of his broad body atop hers, making her feel so imposed upon, so tiny beneath him. It would have been very fair to say she had a size kink, enjoying being overpowered, held beneath his weight. God, it was erotic. She loved it when he was utterly barbarous with her, but couldn’t deny, the soft dom in him had a special place too, especially when he nuzzled her neck, whispering words of love, speeding up to take them to a sizzling finish.  
They lay soft and breathless against one other before getting up to shower, Zoey ordering breakfast in, both enjoying a very lazy morning, eating in their sweats before cuddling up on the sofa. They lay around talking before dressing and leaving the sanctuary of the apartment, Tyler driving them out to the same trail he enjoyed taking his kids biking upon, both deciding to get some exercise in the form of a run.  
It was a gorgeous setting, but it reminded him sorely of how much he missed his children. He’d only been gone for a day, but he missed getting up to see them off to school before sleeping a little longer if he’d been on nights, he missed fetching them from school if he’d been in early, he missed his little routine with them, their excitement to see him, Grace’s love of climbing up him for a hug, Seth’s self-destructive streak, Lani’s happy gurgles as she pointed at him. Her recent first word had been daddy.  
When they stopped for a break, he voiced this all to Zoey, who, as he predicted, found the words to soothe him. “Of course, you miss them. You’re a great dad, but what made you even better was walking away from a situation that would only have begun to impact them if you’d stayed. I’m not biased either because I’m one of the factors that drove your decision. I’d still tell you that had you left her and we hadn’t had an affair.”
He nodded, half smiling. “Yeah, yeah I guess you’re right.”  
“There’s nothing to stop you seeing them before your designated day though, is there?”
“Yes, me having a bit of sensitivity for their mother. That’s what’s stopping me.” Seeing the look in her eyes, he realised he’d been a little too sharp, reaching for her. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap. Come here.” He pulled her into a hug, Zoey swallowing the lump in her throat. She was the exact opposite to Ella; she never rose to conflict or anyone being short with her. She shrank from it. “Love you, my little kinky princess.”
That made her smile. She liked it when he referred to her as his kinky princess. “I love you too. Sorry my suggestion sucked, you’re right, you should let Ella have her peace to process it all without inflicting yourself on her until she’s had her time.’
When he did see her after another three days, though, he wished he’d left it longer.  
“Leave your keys behind when you go, either that or I’ll change the locks,” Ella greeted him with coldly as he entered the kitchen. She’d gone into demanding bitch mode, as he wagered she likely would. Again, he was happy to take her ire, but he wouldn’t stand for her demanding he hand over the keys to a house that belonged to him.  
She hadn’t worked since giving birth to Seth; meaning he’d paid considerably more into it than she had for the last five years, plus the fact he’d owned it before he’d even met her, using a good chunk of his inheritance from his father, knowing that one day, he’d fill it with a family.  
“House is in my name, so no, you can’t do that. I’m not leaving my keys either, again, because it’s my house.” His simple explanation was met by pure ice.  
“You utter bastard!” She hissed, eyeing him with venom.  
“Yeah, I am for what I did to you, but I’m not handing in my keys over just because you’re angry and want to command me. I might have let you get away with it when we were together, but I won’t now we’re separated, unless it’s for the benefit of the kids,” he reasoned, Ella spinning around away from the sink to snarl at him.  
“You have no right to not let me have my feelings! You cheated on me, with my goddamned bitch of a sister!!”  
“Be that as it may, I still won’t cave to your unreasonable demands. Expecting me to turn in my keys to you is unreasonable. They’re not feelings either, that I’m not allowing you to have. They’re your commands of me. Not gonna work.”
“Why? You don’t need keys. You don’t live here any longer!”
“And unless you can buy me out, neither will you once we divorce.”
“You’d seriously kick your own kids out onto the streets? Out of the only home they’ve ever known?” And here she went with emotional manipulation. Like he couldn’t see it coming a mile away. When she was like this, it made him truly see just how nasty she was capable of being, and how much he’d stood for, explained away with her, kept quiet over for the sake of a peaceful life.  
“I didn’t say that. I told you that you could buy me out. Either that or you’ll get your share of it and you can buy yourself something with that. Anyway, this is too far in the future to discuss. Where are they?”  
“No, we’re gonna talk about this right now!”
“Where are our children, Ella?”
“My children. Mine.”
“You didn’t conceive all on your own. They’re ours.”
“You don’t deserve them.”
“Stop it.”  
He knew what she was doing. It was another tactic he’d pushed down, not wanted to fully acknowledge because he’d loved her so much. She would goad people into exploding at her in order to play the victim. Well, in his mind, she was victim enough.
Looking out of the window behind her as she began to rant at him more, he saw Grace run past, turning to head into the lounge and out to the bifold doors, catching her in his arms and swinging her around. Lord, he’d missed her so much, Seth hitting his legs a second later.  
“Dad! Where ya been? Missed you, I got a star in class today for my reading!”
“Did you? Good lad, I’m proud of you, mate!” Crouching, he picked up his son in his other arm, kissing his head, giving Grace the same as she snuggled into him.  
“I missed you, daddy. Are you staying home now? Mummy said you were busy with work, but you’re home again now, right?”  
“No, titch. Come on, let’s go inside. Mummy and I need to talk to you.” Grace didn’t let go of him once they’d gotten back in the house, Seth sitting down on his favourite floor cushion, Ella joining them.  
“Kids, this isn’t easy for mummy and I,” he began, Ella snorting. He shot her a look that told her to cut it out and be present and adultlike for the children before continuing. “We’ve decided that I’m not going to live here any longer. You’ll still see me, I’m gonna get another place where you’ll be able to come stay with me whenever you want, so long as I’m not at work, but I won’t be here all the time any more.  
“I want you to know that we both love you very much, more than anything. That doesn’t change, it never, ever will either. You guys are the most important people to us, but me and mummy, we’re not the most important people to each other any longer.”
“But why?” Grace asked, bewildered, Seth looking on with big, glassy eyes.  
“Mummy and I just aren’t happy with each other any longer, so we’ve decided we’d be happier being apart. You guys are our total focus, though, and I mean it. When I’m not at work, my time is all yours.”  
“When you’re not railing your tart.” It might’ve been muttered so quietly that the kids didn’t pick up on her words, but it was enough to make Tyler’s blood boil, that this was all Ella had decided to contribute.
“I don’t want you to go, though!”  
“And I don’t want to leave you, titch, but you’ll soon get used to it. Hey, you’re gonna have two homes, so you know what that means? Two bedrooms and I promise, we’ll decorate your room at my place however you want. How about that?”
“Bright pink?”
“The brighter the better?”
“Dad, can I get a car bed?”
“Yeah, I don’t see why not. Now, do you guys have anything you need to ask us?”  
“Will we still have Christmas and birthdays together?” Seth questioned.
“Of course.”
Again, Ella snorted.  
“Mummy, why aren’t you saying anything?” Grace then asked, reaching for her mum but not leaving her dad’s arms.  
“Your daddy has said most of it. It’ll be okay, though, baby. We just need to adjust to everything being a little different. Listen, it’s getting close to your bedtime, so go up and get ready, alright? Dad and I will be up in a minute to tuck you in.” The kids both hugged their parents before heading up, Tyler letting out a sigh once they’d left the room.  
“That went better than I ever expected it to. Kids are resilient, though. Hopefully it shouldn't impact them too much, and I meant it, I’ll be around whenever I’m not working so I can be present in their lives, too.”
“I don’t want her around them. They’re not to see my sister at all.”
“You don’t get to dictate that. She’s their auntie, and when the time is right, we’ll tell them about her being more to me too, but not right away so as not to bombard them. You can’t deprive them of Zoey. They love her, Ella.”
“They won’t love her once I’ve told them their daddy walked out on me, on them too, for her.”
“If you do that, use the kids against me, shatter them to hurt me, then you’re more deplorable than I’ve been in all of this. Also, I didn’t walk out on them. Just you.”  
Getting up, he followed his kids up to bed, kissing a sleeping Lani before going in to tuck Seth and Grace in, promising them he’d see them on Sunday, take them out as planned prior to his leaving the family home.  
“I want to know.” Ella began when they were back downstairs, Tyler picking up his keys and phone. “Why her? Why my fucking sister of all people?”
He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. “Because she made me feel wanted when you turned your back on me. It wasn’t just about sex, it was about affection and having someone who listened to me, who liked being around me. You acted like you hated me for so long, gaslit me in every quarrel we ever had and were utterly cold toward me. I still take the blame for straying, but that’s what drove me away.”
“What was it about her that kept you there, though? What kept you going back to keep fucking her? Was she better than me?”
He remained silent there.  
“Was she?”
“Stop shouting, Ella.”
“Was she though?”
“Why are you pushing me so hard for an answer here?”
“Because I need to know! What was it about my devious slut of a sister that made you want to keep going back?”
“Don’t you ever fuckin’ call her that again. Yes, we were devious, but she’s not a slut.”
“I’ll call her what I like!”
“Not around me, you won’t.”
She looked shocked at his firmness there, but still, she kept poking away at him. “Tell me what it was. I want to know.”
“Yes, she was better, is better, if you really need to know. As for why, because I have a deeper sexual connection with her, is why, which eventually grew into a deeper overall connection. You don’t need to know anything else. I’m trying like fuck here not to hurt you any more than I already have.”
“Let’s you do all that disgusting dominating, does she? So, she’s that kind of girl, one who lets you tie her up and smack her around, all that shit I was always too proud to let you do to me? Seems fitting for Zoey, she was always the weakest. Does she let you take her up her bony arse as well, degrade her completely? Yeah, I'm getting the picture here. All you wanted was a filthy whore, and that’s exactly what you got.”
Her words tipped his rage so strongly, it was all he could do not to get up and storm out of there. Her attitude, small minded, opinionated and selfishly misguided, it needed to be checked before he did though. “Her being submissive to my dominance doesn’t make her any less proud, nor does it mean she’s weak. It’s a sexual preference based around arousal. We happen to fit very well together there. Just because you aren’t into it, it doesn’t give you the right to sit there kink shaming us, or calling your sister a filthy whore. She isn’t.  
“I’m done having you dissect my sex life just because you need to be vindictive. You can be angry with me for cheating on you all you like, but I’m not gonna sit here and let you play your mind games with me, Ella. You pushing me for a reaction so you can play the victim isn’t happening. We’ve told the kids, I’ve packed more of my stuff, I’m now leaving.”
“Don’t think I’ll take you back once you’ve gotten bored of her, or her you. We’re done for good, you know. I literally wouldn’t touch you with someone else’s. You utterly disgust me, fuckin’ pervert.”  
He almost laughed at how spiteful she was being, not one shred of dignity about her as she continued attempting to goad a rise out of him. He simply shrugged, got up and walked out. Yes, she was entitled to be angry with him for having an affair with Zoey, but fuck, he wouldn’t take her nastiness. Not one ounce of it. It was the side of her he’d always found to be intolerable, knowing she could have a very sharp tongue, but this was new, this level of venom.  
‘I guess she’s gonna be like this for the foreseeable. You did leave her in the lurch when she likely needed you the most.’
Thinking back to what she’d confessed, he knew it was definitely an extra layer added to her rage at him, not only cheating on her, but continuing it after she’d revealed she was suffering still from Lani’s birth. Something suddenly came to him there, though. Not once had she mentioned it, thrown it at him, called him out for leaving her when she needed the support of her husband. Undeniably, it would have been very in character to have shamed him for it too.  
All the way home, it began to bother him the deeper he thought into it. Her actions, her words, almost everything wasn’t fitting of someone who had gone through trauma, as she claimed she did with Lani. Yes, uncontrollable rage was a symptom of PTSD, he’d suffered it, it was exactly what Ella had been attempting to deliberately provoke in him before he’d left, too, but something about it all was very off.  
There were so many layers to people suffering trauma, as he knew himself. Sadness, inability to trust, shame, feelings of worthlessness, nightmares and guilt, to name a few. She’d confided none of them in him when they’d been working on their marriage. No one else had noticed any kind of difference in her either. She’d been the same Ella to her sisters and her kids. When he’d been suffering, everyone in his life had seen the change in him.  
Ella’s change in demeanour was solely and exclusively towards him.  
Just one trip to the doctors and her diagnosis had been given, no medication, just the advice to seek therapy? Now he was looking at it from the outside since their separation, something didn’t add up to him. At the time he’d been too focused on trying to save his marriage, but the more he thought on it, the more it bothered him. Alarm bells began to blare in his head, but still, he couldn’t quite trust himself.  
Of course, there was one person he took it to first as soon as he arrived back at her place, drinking a beer in the kitchen while helping Zoey prepare dinner.  
“Is it me? Is it just my mind throwing things up at me so I don’t feel quite so guilty about being so bloody happy now I’ve left her for you? Want me to?” Gesturing at the red snapper fishes on the chopping board, Zoey stopped her hovering and passed him the cleaver, Tyler bringing it down and taking both of their heads off in one clean cut, Zoey wincing. “Are they gutted? Ahhh yeah, I see the belly slits. So, what do you think?”
Transferring the heads to the bin and the cleaver to the sink, Zoey went back over to season the fish before placing them onto the pieces of foil they’d be wrapped and baked in, mulling his words over.  
“It’s something I’ve been thinking about, too. When I overheard her and Cait talking in the kitchen at Christmas, she never mentioned anything remotely relating to traumatic birth, or PTSD. I mean, I know Lani’s birth was bad, but she’s not mentioned it as anything contributing to her behaviour. In fact, she’s never said anything of the sort to me and as far as I know, not Cait or Fran either. She just said it was all her fault that she’d pushed you away, so she does admit culpability, just not in the face of what she now knows. It is interesting, though, that she never told any of us about going to see the doctor, or a therapist.”
“Well, the therapist thing is new, she’s only had two sessions so far. She goes every Friday, so her third is next week. It is weird that she didn’t tell you guys, though. That’s not like her, you lot confide everything in one another. Well, current circumstances excluded, at least.”  
Zoey nodded, Tyler’s words causing her own mental cogs to begin turning as she switched the oven on, fetching the brown rice jar from the cupboard. “She wouldn’t be making this up to guilt you into staying, after sensing your issues might’ve led to you leaving? Surely, with how bad things were, she felt you emotionally checking out?”  
“It does seem like Ella behaviour.”
“At her worst, she’s always been capable of being emotionally manipulative, I’d agree. Mum was like that, too. She learned from her. I just can’t see why she’d want you to stay when she’s been being so cold and distant with you, though.” Pouring the required amount of rice into the steamer, she growled with frustration. “We’re not even impartial, though, Tyler! We’re not the ones this should be coming from, because we’ll only look like we’re trying to absolve our guilt.”
“No, you’re right. I know someone who could, though. Or at least, who might be able to confirm our suspicions.”
It was the same someone who called them at the end of the week, asking if they wanted to come to dinner the following Friday night, the only Hudson left willing to have anything to do with them.  
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headinthestaticsky · 3 years ago
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The Dusk Calls for me: Jasper Hale x My OC Fleur Swan, Chapter 5
AUTHORS NOTES: None of the characters in Twilight belong to me. All rights go to Stephenie Meyer.
I recall your soul had a taste like Gardens, flowers, Warm Winds, Warm Winds By SZA FT. Isaiah Rashad
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The ride to the hospital was a little hazy and disorientating but I had made it just fine. I was sitting in the hospital room while a nurse was checking my vitals. The double doors had burst open and I see my dad and Bella rushing over to me.
“Fleur, are you okay?” Dad asked.  He then saw Tyler sitting on another bed next to me. 
“You and I are gonna talk!” 
“I’m fine dad calm down.”
“I’m sorry Fleur I really tried to stop.”
“I know it’s okay, I know you didn’t mean for any of this to happen.”
“No it sure as hell is not okay!”
“Dad, it wasn’t his fault really. Go easy on him.”
“I will not, you could’ve been killed, do you realize that?”
“I do dad but I wasn’t, I am fine. I just got a bump on the back of my head.”
“You boy can kiss your licenses goodbye.”
“Dad...”
The double doors opened again and I was met with a familiar face, Carlisle Cullen had entered the room.
“I heard one of the chiefs daughters was here. I got this one Jackie” He said smiling as he approached me. 
“Oh doctor Cullen hello.” Dad said.
“Let’s see here Fleur, it seems you took quite a spill. How are you feeling?”
“Uh, my head is a little sore from when I hit the concrete but other than that I feel fine.”
“Look here for me, your vitals look good and you luckily enough don’t have a concussion but you might experience some disorientation from the adrenaline  you had. I’m going to prescribe some pain pills please wait here for me to write that up for you. After that you’re good to go.”
“I’m so sorry Fleur I really am...” Tyler was soon interrupted by the curtains being pulled in front of his face. 
“Great, thanks Dr.Cullen.”
“No problem.”
“You, this would’ve been a whole lot worse if Jasper didn’t get to her.” Bella said.
“Uh oh.” I thought to myself I knew someone would’ve seen him.
“Jasper? I like that boyfriend of yours more and more everyday. He’s your son right?” Dad said.
Carlisle looked up before looking back down quickly at my chart.
“Yeah he is his son dad, I mean he got to her so quickly is was amazing.” Bella continued.
“Oh, umm Bella... Could you tell Jasper I’m okay I’m sure he’s freaking out too.”
“Yeah, no problem.”
Bella turned and left, Carlisle must’ve been wrong, I had to be concussed. Bella being civil with me? What alternate universe did I enter just now?
POV Change: Bella’s POV
I went to go find Jasper not just for Fleur but, I was also curious how could he of gotten to her so quickly. He was across the lot from us something was going on with this family and I was going to find out what. I was just about to turn the corner when I heard Edward, Rosalie, and Jasper talking.
“This is really bad, 15 students saw what happened Jasper I understand why you did it of course but still.” Rosalie said
“You should’ve thought this through a bit better Jasper.” Edward added.
“Look I wasn’t going to let her get crushed to death by a van. I know you would’ve done the same thing for Bella.”
Edward just looked at him angrily. Carlisle ended the stare down quickly as he noticed I was listening from the corner.
“I think we should continue this in the my office.”
“Jasper, Edward, can I talk to you two?”
They both approached me, looking apprehensive as if they didn’t know what I was going to ask.
“Jasper first off, Fleur wanted to say that she was alright, she didn’t want you worrying about everything. Second h-how did you get over to her so fast?”
Before Jasper could answer, Edward had interjected.
“He was standing right next to her Bella.”
“No he was not, he was standing across the lot with you.”
Edward let out a soft laugh before continuing. 
“You hit your head when Fleur pushed you out of the way, you must be confused.” Edward said.
“I know what I saw. Stop trying to make me out to be a liar!” I said getting angry
“And what exactly was that?” Edward asked. 
Jasper just stood there, he wasn’t getting much of a chance to talk. It was hard to be around Bella. He was getting more thirsty at the minute but, he continued to stand there not knowing what to do.
“He stopped the van, he pushed it with his hand! Did you not see the dent he left in it?”
“Well no one’s going to believe so...”
“I wasn’t going to tell anybody. I just need to know the truth.”
 “Can’t you just thank Jasper for saving your sister and get over it?” Edward said curtly.
I looked at Jasper and quickly said a “Thank you.” I then looked back at Edward.
“You aren’t going to let this go are you?”
“No, not at all.”
“Then I hope you enjoy disappointment.” Edward said before walking away, dragging Jasper along with him.
I scoffed before turning around going back to the hospital room. I would have to tell Fleur about this later... if she’d let me.
POV Change: Jasper
Once Bella was out of ear shot I smacked Edward on the back of the head.
“What the hell was that?” I asked
“What do you mean.”
“You wouldn’t even let me get a sentence in.”
“I was trying to save you... I could hear your thoughts. You weren’t coming up with something fast enough.”
“You didn’t exactly do a very good job on it! I mean c’mon Edward you said “no one’s going to believe you.” How much more suspicious can you get than that!”
“I’m sorry Jasper.”
“Sure you are.” I then stormed out of the hospital wanting to go back home.
POV Change: Fleur
“Here you are Fleur, there is your write up. I already notified your Pharmacy. They should be done in an hour.” Carlisle said
“Thank you Doctor, I appreciate it.”
“No problem, call me if you experience any bad side effects with the medication.”
“I will, have a good evening.”
Carlisle left soon after. Dad helped me up and carried my book bag and purse for me.
“Dad you don’t have to do that, I can carry my own stuff.”
“Don’t worry about it.”
“Who’s going to get my car, I left it at school.”
Bella had come back after talking to Jasper, she seemed confused about something.
“Oh uh, I’ll take you to school tomorrow, you can pick it up that way.” Bella suggested.
“Sure that sounds fine... are you okay with taking me tomorrow?”
“It’s not a problem.” She said... she had a slight smile on her face.
“Thanks.”
“I’m gonna drop you girls off at the house. I’ll get your medicine and then get something for dinner okay?”
“Yeah sounds good.” I said.
“Sure.” Bella said.
The drive was nice, quiet but, it wasn’t filled with tension. It was the most comfortable I had ever been around Bella. It felt strange the last time there relationship was like this was when the were 4. It seems like such a distant memory, but a fond one to her. As much as I tried to fight it, it hurt to always fight with her sister. Deep down, she loved her, and hoped Bella felt that way too. When we got back to the house I had started to head toward the door when Bella walked next to me.
“Hey, uh... do you mind talking to me tonight in your room?”
“I don’t mind at all.”
“Thanks, and uh... thanks for pushing me out of the way.”
“No problem.” I said.
It was 6 by the time dad had left again, I was up in my room wanting to finish that essay for English when a heard a soft knock on the door.
“Come in! It should be unlocked.” I said
Bella had come in, she looked nervous as if she didn’t know what to do. 
“Umm, I have a lot to say, do you mind if I sit down?”
“Go ahead, I won’t stop you. Is something wrong?”
“How can you be so nice to me? After all the things I’ve done to you?” She asked.
“Hey I haven’t been completely innocent... I’ve said some pretty hurtful things to you too. It’d be insane to say I haven’t hurt you as much as you hurt me.” I said.
“I think I deserved them... I didn’t exactly stick up much for you when mom was... well you know.”
“I think we both need to let this 13 year grudge go... you have to admit, it’s exhausting.”
“Yeah, I agree.”
“Let’s start over shall we? I think it’s sad, we’re twin sisters and usually can’t stand being in the same room as each other.” I said 
“Yeah, let’s start over...Geez it’s crazy... It feels like a weight has just fallen off my shoulders.” Bella replied.
“Me too.”
She then surprised me by pulling me in for a hug. Was it awkward? Of course it was but, it’s Bella she’s always been awkward.
“Is there anything else you wanted to talk about?”
“Yeah, uhh... do you remember much of what happened at the accident?”
“Uh oh.” I thought to myself for the second time today.
“I honestly don’t remember much after hitting my head. I blacked out for a bit. Why?” I lied easily.
“Uh... nothing it’s just Jasper seemed to have stopped the van with his bare hands.”
“Really?” I asked in fake shock.
“Yeah... he hasn’t done anything else like that before has it?”
“Not that I can think of.”
“Oh...”
“Can I ask you something?”
“Go for it.”
“What’s going on with you and Edward... Seems like there’s some tension there.”
“I honestly don’t know... one minute he’s nice to me and the next he’s snapping at me.”
“I think he likes you.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, I mean when I first started dating Jasper, he was the same way around me.”
“So what do I do?”
“Just let him get to know you, warm up to him a bit. You never know what can happen.”
“Thanks I will... I’ll leave you alone now.”
“Okay, come back up if you need anything else.”
“I will... and Fleur?”
“Yes?”
“Love you.”
I was shocked, I hadn’t heard her mutter those words to me in so long.
“Love you too.”
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steoxthiles · 3 years ago
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*gently pats back* Much like with Sterek being more popular than any ship they tried giving Scott, with Thiam also pulling away from whatever Scott's doing...instead of writing Theo back into the story, they just added another random Hale that'll probably be a Deus ex machina, whose age already confuses the fuck out of people and the time line....and hey, they're bringing back a canonly killed off character in Allison... God, I hate Jeff even more after writing this. THEY'RE BRINGING BACK A DEAD CHARACTER instead of asking Cody back and having a living character that'll be more natural to ease into the story.......
Ok i didn’t want to say anything bc i dont want to be too mean… but i instantly came to the conclusion he wasn’t asked bc tyler posey hates being upstaged. HEAR ME OUT and this is also just based on my personal observations… tyler posey is so obviously the one who’s made this all happen, he is the star and lets face it i think tw was his biggest roll and he hasnt been in anything to great since, so like I feel like he would have say in the script/casting/story and we all know he actively hated sterek SO there is a chance he has something to do with this
Now not to hate on him bc whatever i dont know him or his intentions, and maybe its JEFF actually who wants Scott to be the center of the show with no other characters/ships stealing the spotlight IDK
regardless, cody not being asked is INSANE and tbh maybe i wont even watch this stupid thing bc what is the point without him (for me) - i was resigned to dob not being in it, yk? Hes busy, so i kinda knew in my heart he wouldn’t be in it, but i was SO EXCITED for more Theo.. to think he wants to do it but simply wasnt asked is absolutely INSANE and to me, honestly hurtful as a loyal fan of this stupid show since I was 11 (yes i was one of those people who started watching when only the first season was on netflix lmao you see why i am so invested)
On another note, i am actually kind of (very apprehensively) happy that allison is coming back lol! I thought her death was done well, but also kind of the turning point of quality for the show in my opinion.. stiles and later theo was the shining light in a confusing, unintelligible storyline that was season 4 5 and 6b. So like Allison returning is a little bit like the glimmer of light in this pile of grabage (again, in my opinion)
I am so so so disappointed and hurt by this insane decision… if he was just busy or didnt want to be in it i would be sad but id get it, but not even being asked?? This feels like a purposeful, egotistical choice on someone’s part, be it tyler jeff or the other producers. I truly hope they get over themselves and get cody involved, bc by the way he’s spoke about tw since it ended and in the interview, i really really think he wants to play Theo again
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