#benji appreciation week

[liass-21]

ok so we are all intimately familiar with protective ethan there’s literally seven movies about it but protective BENJI???? doing it the way he knows best?????? with silly technology and unwavering voices and literally all of rogue nation???????? benji making disc copies and bringing sticky gloves and staying with ethan even when he was pushing him away????????

their dynamic is just so <33333 i need more benji in every movie i hope he never leaves us

[faerywhimsy]

Day 6 - Bless this love that heals me

It didn’t occur to Daniel that Lestat would send word back of the news that Marius had been found. That all of them had been found and alive. It didn’t occur to him, because Lestat didn’t send the thought back to him.

Only later would Armand let him know of the word Lestat had sent back to him, the news along with Lestat’s love.

Word Armand had then shared with Benji and Sybelle, still in his apartment with him.

Benji shared the news more widely while Sybelle continued to share space and privacy with Armand. Daniel only knew about any of it when others in the blood began to join him on the terrace, filling as well the salons and the ballroom.

“What is it?” Daniel asked to no one in particular, feeling lost among the sudden swell of a growing crowd.

Somehow, Benji managed to make his way through that crowd and to Daniel’s side, that familiar fedora perched atop his head. No amount of any number of vampires telling him that a gentleman didn’t wear a hat inside had ever convinced him to remove it.

Daniel’s expression was still confused, though he’d heard Lestat’s name mentioned several times. Louis’ as well.

“He found them,” Benji told Daniel, eyes shining.

“He…” Daniel trailed off, barely daring to hope. It was a completely different thing, as it turned out, believing someone was still alive versus having the confirmation of it.

“Alive!” Benji spoke the word, and Daniel just about thought his heart was gonna give out. He clutched a hand to his chest, just in case. “Lestat’s bringing them home now.”

Daniel felt his heart lift from his chest in the direction of his throat in time with his sharp exhale. He didn’t have anything to say, just, sometimes still when he was surprised, he would gasp in a breath. Marius had told him the habit would probably die away by his first century in the blood.

Marius.

Daniel looked away from Benji and towards the night sky in the direction so many others on the terrace were staring. How did they know which direction they were coming back in? Had Lestat also given that information when he informed others he was about to return?

Then, there. Daniel saw a vertical shape in the sky, and another one next to it, and another. They were still too far for Daniel to make out any features, but nothing human and nothing else could be mistaken for a vampire utilising the Cloud Gift. Especially not several of them flying towards Auvergne in a pack.

Lestat was the first one Daniel could recognise the face of. Maybe he moved faster than the others – or the others simply let him lead in deference to their Prince. In his arms was Louis. Lestat was gazing forward, as though checking their direction, or the number of his adoring fans, but Louis only had eyes for Lestat as he looked up to his husband’s face. Reunited again.

Daniel’s eyes moved from them to the person he next made out to the right of Lestat. Gregory. He too was carrying someone, and that was the one his eyes begged to see.

Marius.

Daniel would have stepped forward automatically then, with nowhere to go but down to the grounds if he didn’t gather himself for the Cloud Gift soon enough. It was still unpredictable in its use. Thankfully, the stone barrier of the terrace stopped Daniel from moving forward more than a step.

But his heart beat towards Gregory and Marius, moving ever closer towards him and the Château. Marius was clear eyed, and Daniel knew the exact moment Marius caught sight of him there against the barrier, for he shifted himself straighter in Gregory’s hold.

He then shared a quick word with Gregory, and Daniel could see the older vampire shaking his head at whatever Marius had to say.

When he glanced Daniel’s way again, Daniel was overwhelmed by the extremity and the number of emotions that took him. Fear, which he hadn’t allowed himself to feel since Marius had been taken. It overflowed in him now, causing him to gasp at breaths and feel unsteady. Relief, because he was there, Marius was there, right in front of him, alive and alive! Panicked, because Armand wasn’t here, and Armand should have been here for the reunion of all of them. It was important, and Daniel knew it. Impatience, because he both wanted and needed to be in Marius’ arms right then and this seemed like the slowest he had ever seen vampires move with the Cloud Gift.

And then Gregory was setting Marius down on the terrace, the rest of the crowd having stepped back to accommodate them, Lestat and Louis, and all the others. Gabrielle was there too, Daniel noted passively, but it was a stretch for him to look at anyone other than Marius.

He looked exactly as he had the night he had left. The dark red velvet robe he’d been in the night he was taken remained the same, only perhaps slightly more dusty. Daniel flung himself at him, not even pausing to consider whether Marius would be strong enough to catch him after his ordeal.

Of course he caught him. Caught him and held him tight in his large arms, laughing softly into Daniel’s ear as they just held each other until Daniel was ready to be let go.

[russellsppttemplates]

Sharing is caring (George Russell)

A long weekend with the Russells

Note: english is not my first language. I know this is very very very overdue, but hopefully it's still enjoyable!

Thank you so much to everyone who likes and reblogs, your feedback is appreciated 🤍 and I'm taking requests so if you have any ideas or concepts you want to share, feel free to do so as I'll try to get to them the best I can!

my masterlist

Tw: pregnancy

Tag list: @myloverjk-blog

"Are you guys doing well back there?", you asked the kids as George drove the four of you up to his parents' house. According to the screen display, you still had a little over an hour until you arrived at George's parents house where you would be staying for the long weekend to enjoy some family time before the season picked up again.

"Does anyone need a bathroom break?", George asked, looking at Olivia and Arthur through the rear view mirror, "I'm fine", Olivia chirped in, "me too, I'm okay", Arthur added.

"You're doing okay, too?", George asked you, hand on your thigh as he drove, "I'm fine. I never want to say it too loud, but I think morning sickness stopped two weeks ago", you added.

"Little one has had enough causing raucous", George whispered, turning his attention back to the road ahead.

"We're nearly there, right, daddy?", Arthur asked as he recognised the streets as the car approached his grandparents' house, "yes, we just turn here and at the end there", George replied as you texted your mother in-law, letting her know to open the big gate so no one had to get out of the car.

"Guys, you're here! Did you have a good trip?", Allison welcomed you into the house, hugging the kids who immediately ran and hugged her legs, "grandma!!", they excitedly said.

"We did, it was fine. There was a little traffic at the end, but we were so close I think it barely bothered us", you said as you greeted Steve, walking inside the house and making sure the kids left their shoes by the door.

"I'm going to take the bags upstairs", George said, kissing your forehead, "I'll be right back", he smiled as you ushered Olivia and Arthur to the bathroom, "Y/N, here, darling, our some slippers on!", Allison offered.

Since Allison and Steve lived on their own again, as every child had now fled the nest, they updated the bedrooms, you and George staying in the guest bedroom with a double bed and the kids occupying the room they had for whenever the grandchildren stayed over.

"Lunch is ready, so when you can come down, we're waiting for you", George's mother called him as he helped you sort out the room for your children, "we'll be down in a little, thanks!".

After eating and helping tidying the kitchen, George took the kids out to the garden, hoping to use up their energy since they spent the whole morning inside a car.

"Is the swing alright, dad?", George questioned, "yes, me and Benjy sorted it out a few weeks ago. It's good as new", he answered, prompting George to take the kids to the renovated swing set.

When he was younger, he didn't spend too much time at home since racing required him to spend a lot of time away, but the times he did spend back home were filled with memories os this swing.

"Is this the old swing you told us about?", Arthur said, unsure of the whole apparatus since he heard stories from when his father and his uncle and aunt were much younger.

"Yes, me and uncle Benjy used to spend a lot of time here with auntie Cara, too! Who wants to go first?", he said as Olivia volunteered.

"It's safe, Arthur, see?", she said as she balanced her body back and forth, making her brother feel a little more comfortable with the whole thing, "I'll share it with you later, okay?".

"Sharing is important", George began, "and the fact that you guys always share is very nice, me and mummy are very proud of you", he said as Arthur picked some flowers from the grass and gave some to Olivia.

"We're siblings, of course we share everything", Arthur said naturally. It was true. For him, even if Olivia picked on his buttons a few times, he wouldn't ever not want to share something with her.

"Would you want to share your things with somebody else?", George tried as the kiss both looked at him like they didn't know what he was on about, "what I means is, would you mind having to share your things with someone else?", he clarified.

The pregnancy news were still between you and George, excluding your doctor. Because the kids could easily spill the news to somebody else and you had been specially careful so the news would stay between the people you wanted to until the doctor considered it was okay.

"I always share with my friends, too. But yesterday I had all the grapes mummy cut up for me because they were really good and I really wanted them", Arthur admitted as Olivia quirked a brow, "I think we could, yes. Even our toys, we share them too", Olivia added.

George seemed satisfied enough with the answers, hoping that when you broke the news they wouldn't have a complete meltdown.

"C'mon, Liv, it's Arthur's turn", George requested gently, the girl hopping off so her brother could have a go.

"What is mummy doing?", your son asked, "she was helping grandma with tonight's dinner when I asked if she wanted to come with us", George offered.

When they arrived back in time to have a quick shower and get ready for family dinner, you and George dressed them in comfortable clothes since it was just close family. Once they started arriving, the kids found their spot on the floor of the living room, playing with toys and colouring books while the adults caught up with eachother.

"Y/N! I haven't seen you in so long!", Cara said as she came up to you for a hug, "we've been busy, but we managed to sort some time out to come up here", you smiled, offering her the little pastries you had been working on with your mother in-law, "these are delicious!".

Excusing yourself from the group, you went to check on the kids, sitting on the sofa and getting a few cuddles from your nieces and nephews, "auntie Y/N!", one of them gasped, "you almost fell asleep while I was showing you my drawing", he said as Arthur snickered, "I'm sorry, sweetheart, you can show me again, please", you offered, rubbing the sleep away from your eyes.

"Darling, do you want some wine? We found your favourite in the shops the other day, Steve bought a couple of bottles", your mother in-law smiled as she stretched her arm to receive your glass when you were all in the dining room, "I don't, thank you for thinking of me, though", you smiled, exchanging a look with George that wasn't missed by his sister.

"I saw that!", Cara pointed out, "what was that?!", she questioned her brother, knowing he would break under her stare.

"Y/N has something to tell you", he quickly offered, passing the ball to your court as you felt everyone's eyes on you.

"This is not how it was supposed to go, but there wasn't a proper plan either, so... we are having a baby!", you announced, unfolding your leggings and letting your small baby bump show.

"Oh my goodness, another baby!", Allison cooed as your children looked at George for confirmation, "you're going to have a little brother, guys!", he said as they ran to hug you baby bump.

"I noticed your tummy was bigger, but I just thought you had a big lunch!", Arthur said, delighting everyone as they laughed, George watching everyone congratulate you before also congratulating him, "congratulations, darling", his mother kissed his cheek.

"We've been a little more careful this time around, did all the tests and in the blood test, the doctor told us were having a little boy", you smiled, kissing the top of your kids' heads as they latched onto your sides.

"Well, we can celebrate with the wine still! Some juice for you, Y/N", Steve poured in your cup.

When it came to bedtime, the kids didn't want to sleep in a separate room from you, and since the bed was big enough, you allowed them to sleep with you and George.

"That's what I'm saying, guys. It doesn't mean mummy is sick, but it means she needs our help more, she won't be able to do all things at once and it's our job to make sure she rests, as well", you heard your husband tell the kids while you brushed your teeth in the en suite bathroom.

"Time for sleep, kids", you said, lying down on the mattress, you and George brushing each of their hairs as they switched off, almost like a button, "they used up all their energy today", George began, "Did you know these two were wondering how they could help you, because they were worried that you are tired. You even fell asleep on the sofa..!", George tried his best to mimick his nephew shocked expression, earning one of your beautiful laughs.

"I love them so much", you sighed, "and I love you", you kissed his lips.

Kissing your forehead, George's hand managed to reach your bump despite the little boy latching on you like a koala and your daughter lying on top of him, drawing random shapes on it, "not as much as I love all of you".

[holdmytesseract]

Hi beautiful! I have a request!

Loki helping your through a high pain day! I have chronic pain and it would be great

Personal Painkiller

Loki Laufeyson x fem!Reader

Summary: When you have a high pain day, Loki knows exactly how to comfort you.

Warnings: chronic pain, fluff, liiiittle bit of thirst

Word Count: 1,6k

a/n: My friend... Again, I'm so sorry you have to go through this pain. 🥺 I hope that I get this story right and especially that you like it. 💚

Also, have this quite sexy black suit Loki gif.

Tags |: @lady-rose-moon @huntress-artemiss @muddyorbsblr @ijuststareatstuffhereok89 @chennqingg @smolvenger @alexakeyloveloki @theaudacitytowrite @jennyggggrrr @stupidthoughtsinwriting @eleniblue @asgards-princess-of-mischief @vanilla-daydreaming @loz-3 @valencia-rou @mishkatelwarriorgoddess @fictive-sl0th @bunny24sstuff @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @lovingchoices14 @linaax @mochie85 @goblingirlsarah @glitchquake @lokidbadguy @icytrickster17 @gruftiela @lulubelle814 @mandywholock1980 @november-rayne @chantsdemarins @lou12346789

Masterlist °☆• Loki Masterlist

You already felt it when your feet touched the carpeted floor of your bedroom... The dull ache in your left hip. Oh great, you thought. It's not enough that today is Monday and it's raining pitchforks outside, no... The osteoarthritis had to kick in, too.

You sighed and got up with a wince. After stretching your muscles a bit, you made your way to the bathroom - quietly, not to wake your boyfriend, who was sleeping peacefully on the left side of the bed; hands buried underneath his pillow and breath quiet and steady.

The way to the bathroom already turned out to be a challenge. You groaned softly as you sat down on the toilet; burying your face in your hands and rubbing the sleep out of your eyes. Today wasn't a good pain day.

It took you longer than usual to get dressed. Sure, it was a rainy Monday morning, six o'clock and you were without a doubt, tired - but the pain definitely didn't make it easier for you.

After getting through your morning routine, you had a few Lucky Charms for breakfast, packed in more pain killers in your bag than usual and then left the Avengers compound in order to get to work.

Working as a retail saleswoman was great, really. You loved your job. You loved the customer contact and everything else that came with it. Sure, it could get stressful from time to time, but you had a great boss and wonderful colleagues who made up for this.

You had early shift this week - meaning, a lot of groceries and other products the store was selling, which got through the arrival had to be checked and stowed away. That was, hands down, one of your favourite tasks - but not today. Today, it was rather torture. All the work your legs, back and hips had to do wasn't appreciated by your osteoarthritis. Normally, it wasn't a problem and you got along quite well, but when you had a high pain day it was awful - and this Monday was such a day...

So you went to ask one of your other colleagues - Benji, to switch. He understood, of course and was more than willing to let you cash, while he joined Alex. "Thanks, Ben." The blonde man smiled. "No probs. I hope you'll feel better, now that you can sit." "I hope so, too." "Fingers crossed!" Benji shouted while walking away.

"Hey, Y/N, you good?" Your shift buddy Alex asked, while ripping open another big package, which was filled to the brim with cheese. You shifted; trying to ease the pain by moving. "Not really..." Alex's brows furrowed, as she gave you a compassionate look. "High pain day?" "Yeps." You scrunched your nose as your hip told you that moving wasn't the solution either. "Like... Really high pain day. I feel like I can barely move." "Oh no... I'm sorry. Did you already take your pain meds?" You nodded. "Already took two..." "Oh fuck..."

You worked on for another ten minutes, but it just seems to get worse. Sure, the pain killers weren't probably kicking in yet, but nevertheless... It was not manageable. "Alex, do you mind if I try to switch with Benji? See if cashier likes my hip more?" Your buddy nodded. "Sure thing, Y/N/N. I hope it helps..." "Me too..."

Your colleagues good wishes unfortunately didn't work. The seating position was okay and welcomed for a little while; the pain ebbing away a bit, but after about and hour the dull ache came back full force.

So bad, that you weren't able to work any longer.

You smiled; trying to hide the pain. "Thanks."

Therefore, you spoke with your shift superintendent Diane and she sent you home. She knew of your illness and was very understanding and cooperative.

"Thanks, D. I promise I'm trying to go to work tomorrow. I know we have a lot of stuff to do and-" Your boss interrupted you immediately; lifting a hand. "Y/N... Please. You know I understand. Rest today, see if it is better again tomorrow and if yes, that's great and I'm happy to see you here - but if its not, don't worry. We'll make this a few days without you."

Diane smiled; gave you a nod and home you went.

The ride with the subway unfortunately made it worse. You had to stand, which stressed your legs and hips even more. It was honestly a blessing, when you saw the Avengers compound in distance. Almost there, almost there.

The moment the main door shut close behind you, you were utterly relieved. All you wanted to do, was curl up in bed now, with a nice cup of tea - and preferably sleep, so your brain didn't have to remember you every minute, that your hip was aching.

You slipped off your shoes and jacket, threw your keys on the little shelf beside the door and turned to walk the short hallway to the bathroom. But when you turned the corner, you collided with something firm, yet soft. You gasped - out of shock and pain.

"Darling?!" Two strong arms caught you from falling, so powerful was the impact. Loki. "Oh norns, apologies! Are you okay?" His concerned oceanic blue eyes wandered over your body; checking if the collision did any harm to you. But then his brows furrowed softly. "Why are you already back home?"

Only a few moments later, you felt the soft, comfy bedsheets of your bed underneath you. Loki gently let you down, before he worked on tucking you in. "B-But, sweetie, I-I'm still wearing my street wear." You mumbled in between sobs. The god just smiled at you lovingly, snapped his fingers and caused a green shimmer to run over your body; changing you into the most comfortable, fluffiest pyjamas you possessed.

At this question, you couldn't hold back your tears anymore. It was just a little bit too much. The pain, the frustration, that you had to quit work for today - everything.

"H-High pain day," was all you managed to say, before tears escaped the corners of your eyes. Loki reacted within seconds. He knew exactly what was going on and what he had to do. Without another word, he swept you gently off your feet and carried you bridal style towards your bedroom. That was at least what you anticipated, because your vision was blurry with tears. You clung to your boyfriend; wrapping your arms around his neck and burying your head against his black shirt covered chest.

Seconds later, you felt his soft lips press a lingering kiss against your forehead. "I'm so sorry your osteoarthritis is treating you bad again, my love. I'm going to take care of you." He whispered against your skin in a smooth, deep voice, which gave you the feeling of being utterly loved and protected.

"Tea, darling?" You nodded; trying to give him a smile. He knew exactly what you needed on such a day. "P-Please..." "Of course." He said; still smiling softly. "Did you already take some of your pain meds?" You gave him another nod. "Good girl." He leaned down to press another sweet, gentle kiss on your forehead. "I'll be back in a few minutes, okay? Try to get comfortable and relax." "O-Okay."

While you tried to get as comfortable as somehow possible, Loki made you a cup of tea; returning with it only a few minutes later.

"There you go, my love." The god gave you the mug carefully and breathed another kiss on your forehead, "Thank you." before he started to unbutton his black shirt.

Loki was about to roll his black slacks down his legs, when you suddenly remembered something. As if struck by lightning, you quickly took a look at your alarm clock; standing on your bedside table. "Sweetie, don't you have a meeting in, um... Now? Go, get dressed again! You have to leave, unless you'll be late!"

You just took a sip of the tea, as you watched him undress with wide eyes. "U-Uh, sweetie, w-what are you doing?" A low chuckle rumbled through your boyfriend's chest. "What does is look like, angel?"

Blinking - and trying to not get lost in the delicate movements of his fingers undoing the little buttons, you watched how the fabric slipped off his shoulders; muscles bulging. "U-Um, I know, but..." You swallowed hard; taking another sip of the tea and almost burning yourself.

Your boyfriend only shook his head; smiling and kicked the suit trousers off his legs, before throwing them on the chair standing in the corner of the bedroom.

"B-But Steve hates it when you're missing out a team meeting..." He shrugged his shoulders, rounded the bed and slipped underneath the covers beside you. "So? You are way more important than Roger's unnecessary team meetings." "But-" "Ah.Ah. No buts, darling." Loki said; wrapping you up his arms; spooning you. "I'll stay with you. I want to help you as best as I can through this. Screw this meeting."

Your heart fluttered at his words. You couldn't help but to lean into his embrace; cuddling close. "Thank you, love." He nuzzled the crook of your neck; inhaling your scent. "No need to thank me. I am doing this, because I love you." Butterflies ran wild within your belly. "I love you, too."

The rest of the day was spent with cuddling, listening to the rain drum against the window panes and even more cuddling. He made you as much tea as you desired and even tried to ease the pain with his seidr - which really helped a bit.

In conclusion, Loki was the best, doting boyfriend you ever had.

[sailor-aviator]

Don’t Hang’em Til Noon: Chapter Four

Don’t Hang’em Til Noon: Chapter Four

Pairing: Jake “Hangman” Seresin x Reader

Summary: Jake "Hangman" Seresin is a notorious leader within the Dagger posse of the old western territories of the United States. You, a recently orphaned socialite from the eastern seaboard, find yourself swept off to live with your older brother who has set down roots in said western territory. Determined to to make the best of your situation, what will you do when said outlaw sets his sights on you?

Warnings: Swearing, Sexual Assault, Fighting, Violence (against women and others), Jake Seresin, Firearms, Blood. I think that’s it?

Word Count: 3.6k

A/N: I hope you guys appreciate me neglecting my job to write this lol I’m kidding, we were so slow, I would have been bored to tears otherwise. Just giving you guys a heads up now that I’m going to try and pre-write as much as I can over the course of the next couple of days in preparation for next week when I’ll be attending my best friends’ wedding. As always, reboots, comments and likes are greatly appreciated!! 18+ ONLY!! Find me on AO3 under sailor_aviator!

Series Masterlist || DPU Masterlist || Jake "Hangman" Seresin Tag List

“I swear, that man would lose his head if it weren’t attached to his shoulders,” you grumbled to yourself, as you made for the front door of your home. You had just finished cleaning up the mess from preparing breakfast when Benjamin had come running down the stairs in a frenzy.

“Benji, come eat,” you had said, gesturing to the table that was already set. He had shaken his head, turning in circles as he searched for his dress coat.

“I can’t, Scout. I’m running late for a meeting with a client,” he had said breathlessly. You rolled your eyes, plucking his coat off the back of the chair he had set it on the night before when he had gotten home. You held it out for him, and he shot you a grateful smile as he shrugged it on.

“At least grab an apple on your way out,” you had argued. He plucked a granny smith from the bowl you had set out on the table, gesturing at you with it before making a beeline for the door.

“I don’t know what time I’ll be home tonight,” he called over his shoulder before the door closed with a thud behind him.

Now, here you were hours later with his case files clutched in your hands and scowl plastered across your face. You slipped past the door, and making sure it was secured behind you, you made your way into Maverick.

It was nearing the end of summer, and a surprising chill was beginning to creep its way into the air. You made your way quickly to Benjamin’s law firm, giving polite smiles to those you passed.

You stepped into the firm with the files tucked tightly in your arms. Natasha came strolling out from the back with a polite smile that turned genuine at the sight of you.

“Good afternoon, Scout!” She grinned, gesturing for you to join her in the seating area. You did so, taking a seat on a leather armchair as she sat in the matching one opposite you. “What brings you by today?”

“Benji forgot some of his files,” you sighed, showing her the file. Natasha chuckled with a roll of her eyes. If anyone understood how exasperating your brother could be, it would be her.

“He was up late working again, wasn’t he?” She asked. You shit her a knowing look before the two of you burst into a fit of giggles. “That man will blow away with the wind, I swear. How he manages to keep this place in order is beyond me.”

“He may be a tad bit scatterbrained, but he takes his job very seriously,” you smiled. You were surprised he hadn’t come out to see what the commotion was about yet. “Is he around?”

“No,” she grimaced. “His client insisted on meeting at the saloon.”

“I see,” you said, standing up. Natasha followed suit, reaching her arm out to you.

“I can take the files and give them to him when he gets back?” She offered.

“That’s alright,” you declined. “I could use the exercise. You said he was at the saloon?”

“I did,” Natasha confirmed hesitantly. “But Penny isn’t there today.”

You stared at her. “And?”

“It's just that,” she started nervously. “The patrons can get pretty handsy when Penny isn’t there. Not that I don’t think you can hold your own, but I don't want to see anything happen to you should they get any ideas.”

“I’m sure it will be fine, Nat,” you smiled. “I’ll just be in and out. I don’t plan on staying for long. I still have things I need to do back at the house after all.”

Natasha chewed on her bottom li, seeming to contemplate her best course of action. Finally, she sighed. “If you’re sure.”

“I am,” you stated firmly, already moving towards the door. “I won’t take up any more of your time. I’m sure you’re busy with other things.”

“Spending time with you is never a bother, Scout,” she grinned. “Stay safe, and give your brother hell for me when you see him!”

You offered her a final wave before stepping back out onto the street. You turned right onto the street, setting your sights on the saloon.

The atmosphere differed from your first time inside the large building. Instead of Penny standing behind the bar with her usual easy going smile, a tall man with glasses stood and waved a greeting at you.

“Welcome in, miss!” He smiled. You recognized him from the other day.

“I know you,” you said carefully, slowly making your way up to the bar as you studied him curiously. “You’re a member of the Dagger Posse, correct?”

His smile turned sheepish as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Yes’m. My name is Bob, and you’re Scout right?”

You hummed in affirmation. “And Penny trusts you to run her business?”

He laughed at that, almost catching you by surprise. “I get why you find that hard to believe. If I was in your shoes, I’d think that Penny had lost her mind or something.

You chuckled at that. “I suppose it says something about your character that Penny trusts you enough to leave the saloon in your hands.”

“She does,” he nodded. “I don’t take people’s trust for granted.”

“That’s good to know, Bob.”

He smiled at you and then moved like he was going to say something, but he seemed to think better of it. You arched an eyebrow at him as he shifted on his feet, a blush crawling up his face. “What is it?” You asked.

“Penny doesn’t trust just anyone, ya know?”

“I know that,” you nodded. “What of it?”

“The reason Penny trusts me is because I keep the others out of trouble.”

You laughed at that, and he frowned. “I’m sorry, Bob. I don’t mean to offend. It’s just that, well, if they’re out robbing banks and breaking laws left and right, I’d hate to think about what they’d be doing without you.”

“It’s not like that,” Bob sighed. “They aren’t as bad as you may think, Scout. I know Hangman can be…a lot, sometimes. But, everything they do is out of survival.”

“Right,” you scoffed, causing the frown on Bob’s face to deepen.

“I’m serious, Scout,” he continued. “Penny mentioned that you came from Baltimore. I don’t know much about how things are done over there, but I know enough to know how different things are there compared to here. Work isn’t as steady out here as it is back East. Good men do bad things in order to keep their families safe and fed.”

“What’s your point, Bob?” You asked with a heavy sigh. He offered you a kind smile.

“Try not to be so hard on him? I know you’re used to things being a certain way, but believe it or not, he is trying.”

You didn’t have to ask who he was referring to. You mulled over his words carefully before nodding slowly.

“Alright, Bob,” you smiled finally. “I’ll keep that in mind.” His own grew, and he knocked on the wooden top of the bar as he leaned back.

“Thank you,” he said. “Now what brings you by here today?”

Before you could answer, Bob suddenly straightened up to his full height, a cool look on his face as he looked past you. Your brows furrowed in confusion before you felt a warm body push up against you. You whipped around to find a middle-aged man with salt and pepper hair leering down at you. The cold, empty look in his black eyes was warmed over by a look of unbridled lust. He gave you a once over, eyes pausing along the curves of your breasts and hips.

“Howdy, darlin’,” he drawled, making the hair on your arms stand up.

“Can I help you?” You asked him coldly. You saw Bob shift in your peripheral as a couple of more men crowded you on the opposite side. The man let out a low whistle.

“Why so cold, honey? I jus’ came over here to introduce myself. Name’s Isaac.”

“Charmed,” you bit out, glare intensifying as he leaned in closer.

“Y’ain’t gonna gimme yours?” He laughed.

“I don’t see why you would need it,” you state simply, clutching the folder in your hand tightly. You cast a glance over to Bob who was eyeing the group of men wearily.

Isaac smiled, the gesture hollow. He reached up and tapped your cheek lightly, and you balked at the gesture. “Eyes over here, honey.”

“I’m going to ask you once to please stop calling me that,” you bit out between clenched teeth.

“Or what?” He grins.

“Or you won’t like what happens.”

Isaac let out a booming laugh, his companions letting out chuckles of their own. You saw movement in the corner of your eye. You once again chanced a look over and saw two of the men had crossed over to the other side of the bar. The two men had Bob caged in between them, and his eyes darted rapidly back and forth between the two of them. Isaac grabbed your chin tightly in his large hand, forcing your head back to look at him. “What did I just say about those eyes?”

“Let go of me,” you hissed, earning another chorus of laughter from the group of men.

“A feisty little thing you are,” Isaac chuckled, leaning so that his breath fanned over you. It reeked of cheap liquor and stale tobacco. “I see why Hangman has his eye on you.”

“What?” You asked, brow furrowing at his comment.

“Just so you know,” he grinned, “you have him to thank for this.”

Before you could question him further, he grabbed you by your hips and slammed you up against the bar. You felt the air leave your lungs and a flash of pain shoot up your spine. You saw Bob struggling against the two men beside him as they pinned him back. His eyes blazed and nostrils flared as he tried with all his might to break free of their hold. Your brief moment of confusion allowed Isaac to push his way in between your thighs. You felt the hot length of him press against you, and you started to struggle, clawing at his arms. Tiny ribbons of blood began to flow down his arms as he bared his teeth down at you in a crazed grin.

“That's alright, Kitten,” he laughed. “I like a bit of pain with my pleasure.”

He leaned down, slanting his lips on top of yours, and you felt the hot sting of tears behind your eyes. He thrusted up into you, causing you to gasp and cry out. He took the opportunity to force his tongue into your open mouth, and you almost vomited at the action. Without thinking, you bit down on the offending protrusion, the taste of blood filling your mouth. Isaac lurched back with a yelp, grabbing at his mouth. He glared down at you.

“Bitch!” He spat, backhanding you. Your face flew to the side, a flash of white hot pain radiates from your cheek where one of his rings had made contact, cutting you in the process. You felt blood begin to trickle down your cheek, and your tears threatened to spill over. Isaac gripped your hair roughly, slamming you back down onto the counter.

“You’re going to regret that,” he hissed at you as you fought against the dizziness that threatened to consume you from the force of his actions. Your tears began to flow freely down your cheeks as the larger man grabbed at your shirts and skirts, ripping them in a bid to get them off of you.

“No!” You screamed, renewing your efforts. Isaac ignored you as he licked up the column of your throat. Your sobs racked your body violently, legs kicking at him as he moved to undo his belt buckle. You closed your eyes in an attempt to shield yourself from what was about to happen.

Just when you thought all hope was lost, a resounding click sounded in the room. Isaac stilled against you, and you cracked your eyes open to see the barrel of a pistol pressed to his temple. Turning, you saw Jake on the other end of the weapon.

His green eyes were filled with the intention of murder as his lips curled in a sneer of pure wrath. His body was drawn tight, deathly still as he waited for Isaac to make his move. He looked every bit of what you imagined an avenging angel would look.

“Let. Her. Go,” he ground out. Isaac spared a glance at you, and the gun pressed harder into the side of his head. Slowly, the older man pulled away from you, and you scrambled to sit up on the bar. You now saw the rest of the Daggers standing behind him with their hands on their own pistols. The two men behind the bar had let go of Bob who was now moving to your side. You heard footsteps begin to descend the stairs, and you looked to see Maverick, Benjamin, and an unfamiliar older man stop as they took in the scene before them.

“Scout?” Benjamin said, eyes widening in shock. You let out a shaky breath, turning back to watch Jake who had yet to take his eyes off of Isaac. The two stared each other down.

“Hangman,” Isaac finally sniffed in way of greeting.

“What are you doing here?” Jake snapped. Isaac rolled his shoulders back casually as if there wasn’t still a gun aimed at his face.

“Well,” he drawled, “I came to collect retribution for what you took from me, but then I saw you with this pretty, little thing the other day, and I figured this would make for a good trade.”

Jake’s nostrils flared, a dangerous glint in his eyes as Isaac spoke. “I didn’t take anything that you couldn’t replace.”

“I disagree,” the other man hummed, picking a piece of lint off his shirt. “You wounded my pride, Hangman. And what better retribution than taking your woman?”

Jake’s jaw clenched, and you saw Maverick move out of the corner of your eye.

“Jake,” the older man said gently. Jake spared him a glance before focusing back on Isaac. Maverick continued, “Not here, son.”

Jake looked at him, and when Maverick gave a pointed glance at where you sat, frozen, he turned his attention to you. You must have looked a sight because Jake’s jaw clenched again. You could feel the tears still streaming down your face and mixing with the blood that still dripped down your cheek.

“Jake?” You called to him softly, uncertainly. He took several deep breaths.

“The only reason you’re leaving here alive,” he rumbled, nodding his head over at you, “is because she’s here.”

Isaac watched him for a moment, the two of them not breaking eye contact. Isaac huffed out a light chuckle before turning towards the door. He gave you one last glance before smirking, gesturing for his men to follow.

“You best keep an eye on her, Hangman,” he called over his shoulder. “Would be a right shame if something were to happen to her while you weren’t lookin’.”

Jake said nothing as they filed out. One man stopped beside Bradley, casting him a sideways glance. “Rooster.”

“Jeb,” Bradley replied coldly. The two shared an unspoken conversation before the man followed the rest out the door. As soon as they were gone, Benjamin rushed to your side.

“Scout, what happened?” he cried, checking you over. You looked down at yourself, noting how the collar of your white, cotton shirt hung by mere threads off your shoulder. You frowned at the tiny drops of blood that had fallen onto the ruined fabric.

“I,” you swallowed thickly, “I was coming to give you the casework you forgot at home this morning. I thought it might be important, so…”

You trailed off, your eyes taking in the multiple tears of your skirt, a new wave of tears pouring from your eyes. You jumped when Jake appeared in front of you. His eyes were still blazing, but you saw worry mixed in with the rest of the emotions still swirling within the different shades of green.

“What the hell were you thinking,” he seethed.

“What?” You blinked. He took your shoulders in his hands, surprisingly gentle for how angry he seemed.

“How many times do I gotta tell you that you need someone with you? Especially in here?” he growled.

“I didn’t think-”

“You’re right,” he snapped, his grip slightly harder as his frustration with you grew. “You didn’t think, and you almost got hurt because of it.”

You felt your own temper start to build as you stared up at him.

“Stop treating me like I’m some helpless child,” you snapped at him. Jake barked out a humorless laugh.

“You’re not a child, Scout,” he flung back at you. “And, that’s why it’s so damn frustrating when you do stupid shit like this.”

“I can take care of myself.”

“Clearly you can’t,” he seethed. Your jaw clenched, and you practically threw yourself onto the ground. You pushed past him with a glare and started for the door.

“Where are you going?” he demanded, already moving to follow you. You whirled back around, stopping him in his tracks with a finger to his chest.

“I’m not going to sit here and let you insult me,” you spat at him. He grabbed your hand, and pulled you in to him.

“Have you learned nothing from what just happened?” he glared down at you. “If we hadn’t already been on our way in to see Mav, well shit, Scout. Isaac would have had you every which way and then passed you around to his crew. Don’t you understand that?”

“Let go of me,” you ground out, trying and failing to pull your arm free of his grip.

“No,” he stated firmly, eyes set in a determined bid to win this argument. You gave another tug, but his grip didn’t falter.

“You don’t seem to get it, darlin’,” he sneered. “This ain’t Baltimore. People don’t hide their ugly nature behind polite smiles and fancy clothes. People here take, and they sure as shit don’t care who sees them do it."

He took a deep breath to try and calm himself. "Tell me you understand.”

You nodded, still glaring furiously up at him. He shook his head with a wry smile. “Uh uh, sugar. Need to hear you say it.”

“I understand,” you snapped. He finally let you go, and you wrenched your hand back. The two of you stared a beat longer before you heard Benjamin clear his throat.

“I’ll take you home, Scout.”

“No,” you said automatically. “You’re busy. I can see myself home.”

“Not happening,” Jake said. “I’ll walk you home.”

You went to say something, but he fixed a hard stare at you, cutting you off. “Don’t even try to argue with me right now, Scout. I’m taking you home, and that’s final.”

You huffed, turning on your heels and stormed out of the saloon, Jake hot on your tail. The two of you walked in silence, townsfolk casting you wide-eyed looks as you passed. When you reached your front door, you whirled around to face him.

“I’m home,” you spat. “Safe and sound. Are you happy now?”

Jake stared at you, his lips set in a hard line.

“The boys and I were plannin’ on leavin’ for an excursion tomorrow,” he said, “but I think I’ll stick around.”

You scoffed. “If you’re worried about what Isaac said, don’t be. It’s you who should be worried, actually.”

“Oh?” Jake chuckled. “And why is that?”

“I’m only telling you this as a way of thanking you for your help in the barn the other day,” you began, Jake arching an eyebrow at you. “But there’s a U.S. marshal after you and the other Daggers.”

Jake barked out a laugh, and you stared at him in confusion. Jake looked at you with a wide grin. “I ain’t worried about a U.S. marshal, pretty girl.”

“How are you being so cavalier about this?” you snapped, placing your hands on your hips.

“Because they’re always after us,” he shrugged. “Besides, I can take care of myself. You on the other hand-”

“I can take care of myself just as well as you can,” you huffed. All humor dropped from Jake’s face as he gave you a look that said he clearly didn’t believe you. You scowled at him, stalking into the house. He followed you as you marched into the kitchen. You grabbed the rifle that Benjamin insisted you keep by the back door “just in case,” and walked out the back door. Jake kept following, and you stopped just outside on the porch.

“Do you even know how to use that thing?” He chuckled. Wordlessly, you scanned the yard, finding a forgotten bucket sitting on the fencepost about fifty yards away that you must have left out that morning. You raised the rifle to your shoulder, took aim, and-

BANG.

The bucket went flying in the air, a hole where you had hit it dead center. You let the rifle drop from your shoulder as you held it by your side. Turning, you caught the look of shock and intrigue that graced his face.

“He caught me off guard today,” you said. Jake looked at you, wonder shining in his eyes. “He won’t do it again.”

Jake studied you for another moment before nodding his head slowly.

“Alright, Scout,” he relented. “I’ll see you when I get back.”

[russellius]

THE TIMES: The Formula One driver and his father, Steve, on failed driving tests and sleeping in horseboxes

George

My earliest memories are of living in a mobile home while my parents built a house in a field in the middle of nowhere, near Wisbech in Cambridgeshire. I rode a pedal tractor around the site, hurtling through corners and reversing with a trailer.

At 25 I am the youngest of three. Cara is 37 and works as my personal assistant. Benjy is 36 and caught the karting bug when he was just 11. He was a brilliant driver, becoming a national and world karting champion. Unfortunately, even starting at such a young age, it was already too late for him to have a professional career. I took up karting when I was six and he helped me a lot. Benjy was like a mentor. He eventually gave up racing at university, so Dad’s focus was on me.

I didn’t see much of Dad during the week. He got up early and came home late running a business selling seeds and pulses. As a kid you miss having your father around, but it’s only now that I appreciate he was doing it so I could race at the weekend. Dad didn’t come from a lot and did well to create a successful business. We weren’t poor but we weren’t wealthy like the families of some F1 racing drivers now.

After long hours at work Dad drove us in a camper van to racetracks around the country. It was very much a family affair. Dad was the mechanic, Mum did the cooking and collected data on my driving. When I drove well, there were celebrations and the mood was great but because everyone was so emotionally and financially invested, when I suffered a poor weekend the mood was bad.

Dad has always been hard on the ones he loves. As a young kid, that was difficult to deal with. The pressure didn’t just filter down to me, it affected the whole family. I felt the weight of failure and expectation. If I made a silly mistake and spun off the track, I can now understand why Dad might have thought, “What the hell am I doing this for?” He had to work his arse off to support my racing, so if I didn’t put in enough effort, it must have been hard.

I now live in the world of F1, where tens of millions of pounds are spoken about like peanuts. Even in Formula Two or Three, every driver has to find huge amounts of money to get on the grid — it’s just crazy. When I was 16 and moving up through the ranks, I realised Dad didn’t have that sort of capital. I thought, “Oh shit, if I can’t find that sort of sponsorship or get picked by a team, my F1 dream is gone.”

Winning the F2 championship in 2018 was a big moment but I’ll never forget the day I signed for Williams F1 in September 2018. I was racing in F2 in Sochi, Russia, when Claire Williams, the deputy team principal at the time, called me in and offered a deal. Mum and Dad were the first people I told and they both cried. I told them to save their tears for when I won a race.

I joined Mercedes for the 2022 season, alongside Lewis Hamilton. It was a huge opportunity for me to learn and grow in F1, as well as show what I’m capable of. It was not an easy season for Mercedes but I feel very fortunate to be in this position, plus Lewis is such an incredible bloke on and off the track. He is so experienced, whereas I’m a 25-year-old who is just totally focused on trying to be the best F1 driver I can be. I’m pretty inspired by what he has achieved.

Dad is a strong character but he has become more emotional since his children have left home. He’s also friendlier now and doesn’t mind making a fool of himself from time to time. My only regret is that F1 doesn’t leave much free space to see each other but we do speak on the phone all the time.

Of course he still watches the pennies and will only fly economy — he won’t let me pay for their flights either. I know my parents can afford to fly business but it’s the principle for them. I want to make sure I reach a position with my racing where I can afford to give them the best in their retirement. They totally deserve it.

Steve

The F1 guys are OK on the racetrack but they are never as good as their dads on normal roads. George is always telling me to slow down as we approach a junction, though his mum thinks it’s fantastic when he takes her out and drives quickly.

There was just one occasion when George didn’t put the full effort in and it caused quite a commotion. He failed his first driving test at 17 because he thought that being a great driver on the track was good enough. He came home fuming that the examiner was wrong. We had to go back to the test centre in King’s Lynn so George could confront him. That didn’t go down well.

George was a cheeky little boy, a bit of a comedian. I worked a lot but it’s strange that I can only remember the racing side of his life, not watching him grow up at home. We enjoyed a nice life but had to work hard for it. I came from a family of farm workers with very little money and wanted to get away from agriculture and better myself but I ended up owning a wholesale seed business.

My wife, Alison, and I knew George was going to be a racing driver at the age of two. He was born on the track, coming to races to watch his brother and help out in the garage. He had a toy tractor that he rode around the pit lane and collected stickers from each race to stick on his “George Russell Racing” tractor.

As George progressed through the racing ranks it became more and more expensive. We invested in a motorhome to travel to races — before that I would sometimes sleep in a freezing horsebox. There were sacrifices. Alison and I didn’t go on our first holiday together until two years ago, on a trip to Lanzarote. By then we had been together for 38 years. People think that now George is in F1 we hang out with Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff, the Mercedes principal, every weekend in the sunshine, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Now Alison and I rarely go to races because we don’t want to interfere.

It was hard letting George fly the nest because we had been a close family, always doing our racing together. He is methodical and organised but his feet are firmly on the ground. There are plenty of people in the family to put him straight if needed.

There’s no magic wand to become an F1 driver — it takes hard work and dedication. It was only when I stood on the track with George before his first grand prix that I looked up at the enormous crowd and thought, “Oh my God, we’ve actually got here.”

[oh-saints]

short

you had to go away for work immediately after the final match of the season was concluded. but now that you’re back, ben cannot wait to celebrate his win with his (rather) short girlfriend.

benjamin pavard x you

tw: soft sex with a bit of foot fetish

wc: 1.6k

prompts: “height gap” + “celebratory sex” + benji’s post-workout shirtless ig story

note: another one for the smut week! a rather short one this time but this is based on three asks here. pls also bear in mind this is 18+ content therefore minors DNI! and as usual, I happen to write at dawn so it’s not beta-read yet.

“you really should stop doing that.”

ben was rolling his quads on the foam roller under the bright sun in his backyard, warming down after a rigorous season they were having—thanks to dortmund’s admirable fight throughout the season. now that the season was done and over with, ben could opt in some slow days of training, just enough to keep him in shape.

the footballer looked up, catching the glimpse of his girlfriend standing by the door, still clad in her blazer, arms folded neatly. ben smiled at the sight—partly because he was glad you were back, partly because of the scowl in your face. you’d never appreciated when he worked out in the backyard, exposing his shirtless self to the rest of the world when it was meant to be only for her eyes’ consumption only.

“it’s bad for our health you know, you working out like you wanna fuck the yoga mat,” you clicked your tongue disapprovingly. “especially to our vagina.”

ben had to laugh at your comment. you always had the knack to be unfiltered, and strangely it was what drew him into you. in this blitz industry, a no-nonsense presence is always going to be appreciated.

“remind me again what does it do to you woman?”

“why don’t you come in and find out?”

and there was the persona ben loved the most about you. always so daring, always so challenging. it always kept him on his toes, on the ground, reminding him that there was always someone with a higher drive to survive the jungle.

the fact that you were wearing his favourite pair of stilettoes didn’t help either. in fact, that determination and those heels combined was actually a sight that was dangerous to ben’s health, body and soul. the backs of your heels arched in the ways only your body could replicate, damn what a sight to behold.

ben stopped his workout sequence altogether, feeling his cock hardening both at the sexy sight and the friction the foam roller was providing. he knew he needed his fix—real fix, not just this crappy piece of rubber shit—something you hadn’t been giving him post-winning the league because you had to go to london, promising a private celebration was in due as soon as she landed back home.

the player walked closer to you, and your smirk grew along the hardness of his cock, palpable enough through his shorts. and ben recognised immediately, that you’d been intending to entice this reaction out of him because you remembered your promise before you flew away for work.

ben inwardly smiled, realising you were in the same page as him. but his smile broke out of his face as soon as he got closer to you, towering you still even though you were sporting a skyscraper heels. he could never help himself whenever he noticed the height gap between you two, too cute to be missed out.

but as you thought he was going to kiss you like you were in need of oxygen to live, he paused a millimetre before your lips while his hand cupped your jaw, angling your face towards him. just the way he liked it—him showing you who was in power, you surrendering your power unyieldingly to him.

“don’t hold back,” he whispered sultrily against your gaping lips, taking in every air gasped by your mouth. “got me?”

before you could give a response to that, ben closed down the distance between your lips. his lips landed perfectly on yours with such a force you had to steady yourself before returning the fervour, clasping his upper lips between yours while he bit down gently your lower lips in between his.

by the harsh and rash manhandling he was doing you—in the way he kissed you senselessly, in the way he lifted you up and hooked your legs across his back, in the way he brought you both to the nearest soft surface he could find—it was your turn to recognise ben was the one who couldn’t hold himself back any longer. he’d usually wait for your compliant reply to his demanding question, vocalising your surrender to him. he’d usually start off easy, too, because he just loves slow-burn foreplay.

as soon as you felt the soft cashmere of the sofa on your back, your boyfriend’s lips were busy finding his usual comfort zone. or in other words, your weak spot. knowing the goal behind him peppering kisses down the line of your neck, alternating between soft licks along the trail, you moaned in absolute pleasure.

“there she is,” you could feel him smirking against the skin behind your ears, so close to your weakness that it ran some shivers down your back. “louder, ma chérie.”

your obscene sounds was what fuelled him to do more—more rush, more pleasure, more love. no matter how much your height hap was actually a silent hindrance between you two. he had to crouch and bend just to adjust with your ends, just to kiss you, just to fuck you, just to please you.

but the lovely sight of you spared underneath him, with eyes and face so trusting of him to do whatever he needed to do to bring you both to the edge, was enough of his reason to keep going.

so he did. he peeled your articles of clothing one by one, so painfully slow for your standard, but the kisses he left all over the body as soon as he pulled down the fabric was enough of a payback. except for the heels.

the only reason why you could hold your head high and why his head didn’t have to stoop so low whenever he wanted to say and show how much he loves you.

and his achilles’ heel.

he lifted your right leg, flinging them over his shoulder like you were worth less than a paper. you trembled slightly at the move because it exposed your clit to the air wider, and you’d hate it if he could smell you were wet for him already.

but it seemed like too late for that. benji was already smiling as he puckered his lips, pecking your calf upwards to your ankle, sniffing and licking your legs teasingly because you were somehow shorter this way in his hands. and he loved it more because he could engulf you in his arms and everyone would think he’d made you disappear.

you thought he was taking off your heels this way, but as he lifted your other legs over his shoulder, you suddenly couldn’t guess him anymore.

“I want you on top today,” your boyfriend announced, his lips tickling the small spot between your ankle and the back of your heel. “can you do that?”

“what can’t I do for the winner?”

ben didn’t waste anymore time before he flipped you around, settling yourself on his lap. you didn’t waste anymore time too before you pulled his zipper down and freed his hard cock, pulsating already in your hands with ardent desire and carnal need.

something you were familiar with because you were feeling the same way. you wanted to play some tug of war game with him but your clit was throbbing already, ben’s earlier demonstration of throwing your legs over his shoulder did wonders to your most sensitive organ.

you lifted yourself a bit, just enough space for you to rub his cock with your wetness, preparing the both of you to the pleasure that was to come. you maneuvered the shaft up and down the line of your opening before sinking in, taking all of your boyfriend into you, and you both groaned at the rare sensation of a complete lust consumption. you were more of a doggy style kind of couple because it alleviated your height gap problem at hand, and for ben, it was a bonus sight to see his cock disappear whenever he pulled your hips towards him.

“fucking hell,” you had to seek for ben’s hands to help you sit up still, the feeling of him inside of you this way was an out-of-this-world experience. “we should’ve done this earlier.”

ben tried to give you some support by lifting his hips first, letting you ride him until you found your own rhythm and energy to match his. and when you did, god did he want to say he agreed to your statement. he really should’ve done this from the beginning of your relationship.

your hands were now placed on top of his pectoral while your hips met his as you brought them down, the frictions against your skin was another reason why you were a wreck, breathlessly whimpering when you felt his cock slipping out of you and moaning when you felt his cock entering you again in each thrust.

but you were gone when ben pulled off his idea of flicking your puckering bud while you rode him. so gone he had to catch you in his arms, gathered the pieces he shattered, as he kissed the crown of your head while riding you out till the last drop of him spilled.

“now this truly feels like winning.”

[haziel-luz]

His Priority {Donnie x Reader}

Chapter 4: Let Him Go

The past three weeks gave you surprises, like Casey finding you, and revealing his break up with April. You didn’t want to even think about your own break up. Right now, you’re hanging out with Raph, training on the rooftop. He really made you work out your anger, and it was satisfying.

“Alright bug, that’s it for today, feeling better?” Raph pulled a towel and water from his bag and tossed them to you.

“So much better, thanks for this.” You wiped your face and neck with the towel. “I really appreciate you taking the time to train tonight.” You open the water bottle and begin drinking it in gulps.

“No problem, but is that all you called me for?” Raph raised an eyebrow and hanged his towel around his neck. 

“What do you mean?” You asked, as far as you thought, you just wanted to release some stress.

“It’s been a few days since then, I was just wondering if you had any curiosity.” Raph leaned against the wall opening his bottle. Well, he wasn’t wrong, you did have some questions about how Donnie is now, but you were better off not asking.

“I do, but it’s better if I don’t know anything. Whether he’s figuring things out, comfortable, heartbroken, or moved on. I rather not know any of that right now. I know he’s your brother and you care for him, but since he’s my ex, there shouldn’t be a reason for me to hold his burden. Whatever that may be.” You sat down and sighed out of exhaustion. You’ve always been honest to Raph about how you really felt, and you hope that this doesn’t change your friendship. Looks like Donnie really did listen to you this time. He left and didn’t come back, the city has felt silent at night since then.

“That’s alright, but since we’re on that topic, how’s Casey?” Raph smiles when you playfully glare at him.

“He’s annoying as usual, thanks for that.” You threw your towel towards him, he instinctively doges the towel in disgust. You laugh and continue, “He’s doing good, he found a new roommate to crash with while he tries to look for an apartment. Maybe just a studio apartment.”

“Ain’t he crashing with his cop buddy? What’s his name..” Raph sits next to you, thinking.

“Benjamin, he just calls him Ben though.” You snicker at the name, sure it’s a ridiculous name, but your ex was named after a literal artist.

“Ah right, Benji. Anyways, since you're both doing good, how about the three of us hanging out next time? Drinks are on Casey.” Raph smirks, probably plotting what to do for that night. Knowing his schemes, this might include turning Casey into his drunk puppet. Oh how you missed the embarrassing display.

A notification sound came from Raph, he grabbed his cell and slumped at the message. Guess it’s time to go back to work.

“Patrol time sucks sometimes,” Raph stands along and picks up his bag, “Get home safe, alright bug?”

“Alright, see you later, snappy.” You chuckle at his groan as he walks away. This time, going home isn’t a problem. Your thoughts are not loud and your body just wants rest for the first time in two days. You're betting that tomorrow is gonna get better.

____________

This morning felt so refreshing, no work today but you guess a walk around the city can help you occupy your mind. Your body has been feeling sore from training last night, you hate that feeling when you just want to be energized. Grabbing your bag and keys, you left your apartment and walked outside on the busy sidewalk.

You’ve been keeping tabs with Casey this morning, he wanted to grab breakfast again but something came up for him. So, it’s just you listening to your music, minding your own business. You gave your single life luxury, there's no way you can stay away from your favorite stores.

Then there it is, your store, more like your playground. It’s a store that had it all aside from clothes, you were more into gaming. A nerdy side to you that you didn’t show often. Why not see what’s available for today.

Going into the store was like going through your Christmas list. So many consoles and enough games to entertain you for months. As you're going through the games on the shelves, you didn’t realize someone was talking to you. You felt a hesitant tap on your shoulder and you turned around surprised. It’s April…great. Now you wish you didn’t even turn around.

You refrained from rolling your eyes and took out your earphones reluctantly. “Can I help you?” Your voice was neutral, and you didn’t want her to think that there's a chance for any sort of friendship.

“Uh hey, I just wanted to see if we could talk.” She seemed a little hesitant by this interaction, but she stayed firm.

“We already are, I doubt you're here to have a girl time.” You exhaled through your nose as you slowly walked around the store to see more game options. 

“Yea…I just wanted to say that nothing happened between me and Donnie. He was just someone I could always count on when things got difficult.” April explains while following you around, and you clench your jaw a little. And Casey isn’t?

“I already had this conversation with him. Look, I appreciate you defending him, but things are a little more complicated because of him.” You tried to wave her off, hoping that your response would be enough to make her walk away. She was quiet for a moment, and you took that as a cue to walk away. “Alright, if that’s all it is then, bye-” 

“He’s not in a good place.” April stopped you from ending the conversation with a slap of a burden. You talked about this with Raph last night, and now she’s the one feeding to your unwanted thoughts.

“Are you serious right now?” You stared coldly into her eyes.

“He’s not in a good place. Donnie hasn’t been himself lately, he refuses to leave the lab, barely eats, and works himself to the bone, even in the dojo. Everyone’s worried about him, while you're picking out a game. Just where he knew you would be.” She stands her ground and frowns slightly at your reaction. 

Your blood was boiling and your hands were clenching in the pocket of your hood. There is no way that she felt like she had the right to call you out as if you were in the wrong. You couldn’t really help but be angry enough to laugh at her. She was taken back by your sudden laughter.

“You think I can help him cure his depression? Make him happy? You? The girl who became his number one since day one. The redhead that couldn’t help herself to be around him when it was convenient.” You stared at her menacingly. Two can play the “talk shit” game. While she’s here you might as well humble her.

“Yes, I do think that maybe if you talk to him, he can get better. I know I’m the last person you want to see, but if you put your petty feelings aside then you can help Donnie. I wasn’t exaggerating about his well-being.” She speaks as if she’s wise and reasonable, but let’s play this out.

“Fine, but under one condition,” You step forward, making her take a step back, and you lean forward a little, “let him go.” Her face shows how confused she is. How pathetic.

“Let him go? What are you-” She was about to say something ignorant, until you cut her off on her bullshit.

“‘What are you talking about?’”, You mocked her, “Oh please, save me the fake confusion. I have the right to be petty, you don’t have the right to be so righteous. You want to be his savior sweetheart , then you should start giving him some type of closure. Let. Him. Go.” You sternly gave her the option, no, the obligation to make the choice. You know deep down that if you went to help Donnie, she would be given the credit, his appreciation, his admiration, his praise.

Her eyes widened at your demand, she readjusted herself and exhaled through her nose, "Letting him go would mean that I would be losing a best friend. I can’t just cut ties with him like that. We can establish boundaries, if that’s what you want.”

“Ah, there it is.” You chuckle humorlessly.

“I’m being serious. We can get along somehow, we-” April wanted to keep her composure as best she could by extending the olive branch. You're just not in the mood for “peace” right now, not this kind. 

“We? Let me be blunt, you have rubbed me the wrong way ever since I had to watch Donnie make a fool of himself for you. Even right before we broke up, he just lied to make you a priority over me. You want to be the peacemaker for Donnie’s sake, good for you, but I’m not sorry for not enjoying your presence, or even listening to your annoying noun of a name. Good-bye.” You readjusted your bag and walked away, your feet dragged you out of the scene as fast as they could. Another minute with her and you probably would’ve seen red.

All you wanted was a damn game, but no, somehow that’s ruined too. And Donnie… now that you know that he isn’t doing well, you hope that he can understand the situation. Wait, understand ? He should do whatever it takes to figure himself out even if it’s breaking him. You’ve been dealing with almost breaking apart for almost your whole relationship, even friendship. It’s only fair.

You heard her raising her voice, she’s still following you outside. “Wait! Hey, we're not done here.” She calls out your name and finally catches up to you. Her hand lands on your shoulder. Bad move. You turn around and slap her arm away and you finally give it to her.

“For fucks sake- Just go out with him! How stupid do you think I am? You honestly expect me to believe that you were never once curious, because even Casey thinks so.” You were seeing red, you really didn’t want to hurt her, so you might as well bring her down. April glared at you, she finally looked just as angry as you did.

“That was really uncalled for, what happened with me and Casey-” She instantly shut her mouth at a familiar voice.

“Me and Casey what?” Casey raised an eyebrow as he stood behind her. Everyone stood silent, so much tension was in the air that everyone walking on the sidewalk avoided their gaze. After a minute, Casey walked past her and stood right beside you, he looked down to meet your eyes.

“Are you okay?” He asked, tilting his head. His face was calm, as if he wasn’t even standing in front of his ex right now. How is he doing that? You didn’t trust your voice, so all you did was nod.

“Casey…” April whispered almost longingly, her eyes stare at him in disbelief, and in awe. He did mention to you that he hasn’t seen her since the break up, and that was three weeks ago. Yet it seemed longer for her, based on her expression.

“So what’s this about? If I can even ask.” Casey gave her a neutral look, his voice was almost freezing cold. April didn’t seem prepared to encounter him.

“It’s just… Donnie isn’t doing very well.” Her nose slightly scrunched at the name she blurted out.

“Donnie huh? Well, send him my best. Shall we?” Casey lays one hand on my shoulder to turn us away.

“I know you're not his biggest fan, but his condition is really bad, he needs help. I’m doing what I can, but he needs her.” She just wouldn’t let it go. Your hands clenched tightly, and he noticed.

“She’s not your biggest fan either, so I’m helping her right now. He needs her now, but she needed him way before this. So, I’m gonna have to ask you to stop trying to fix something out of your reach. It’s tiring.” He sighed and continued to make us walk away from her. You turned your head and observed how defeated she looked. You didn’t know if it was for Donnie or Casey. Casey said your name softly, rubbing your arm.

“If something like this happens again, just let me know. You almost seemed ready to punch her.” His calm voice was bringing you back from your thoughts. This became emotionally draining for you, and you were really thankful that Casey was around.

You were also worried about Casey’s wellbeing, but he repeated several times that he’s fine. As you both walked, there was still silence, but a calmer silence. This is what you needed, a moment of peace from the angry thoughts running through you at a thousand miles a minute.

Ugh, how annoying.

______________

Next => Chapter 5: ? (Coming Soon)

Previous <= Chapter 3: Figure It Out

[doomed-syko]

don’t get me wrong, as happy and excited as i am about the catfish comeback and (possibility) of new music, the way nothing that has happened since summer 2021 has been publicly addressed by the band at all, leaves a very sour taste in my mouth.

not a word about dropping out of the two cardiff shows two weeks before they were happening, nothing about bob leaving in september – not even just resharing his post as an instagram story, which would've been the bare minimum – and nothing about bondy leaving after being in the band for years.... and now they’re just back? without any explanation?

idk that just seems so incredibly disingenuous to what they as a band but especially van have always preached. i’m sorry but it does not seem like you are only "in it for the fans and the live music" when you couldn't be arsed to make any sort of public statement in the over two years, that was between bob leaving and the reading and leeds headline announcement, to let your fans know what was going on.

it just feels very disrespectful, not only to the two long-time band members that left the band but also to the thousands upon thousands of fans – doesn't matter if die-hard or casual – that were left with so many questions.

again i am very excited for what is to come, i will go and see them if they'll tour in europe and i will always appreciate van for the music but my opinion of him (and benji) has changed drastically since 2021 and i don't know if that can ever change.

x

[snovyda]

Some quotes from the Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation script that I can’t stop thinking about (most of these are in the script but did not end up in the actual film or are slightly different in the finished product).

Benji (to Lauren, the lie detector operator): You changed your hair... (laughs) It’s a joke... because you... never change your hair. Or your expression.

****

Lauren: State your name. Benji: You ask me that question every week. Lauren: Your name. Benji: The King of Norway. His vitals [on the  lie detector] fluctuate. Benji: That was a lie. I’m actually third in line for the throne. His vitals don’t fluctuate.

****

Brandt: Western civilization is slowly coming apart. Hunley: It won’t happen on my watch.

****

Ethan (on com): Benji, do you copy? Benji tries to contain his reaction. He sort of manages.

****

Benji arrives at a service door marked with electronic symbols. He quickly works the lock and slips into a cramped space, humming with electrical conduits. He’s very out of place in a tux.

****

Ethan: Ever have a crisis of faith, Benji? Benji: More than once. Am I fighting for the right side? Should I really risk my life for a world that doesn’t seem to care? Ethan: And sometimes the answer is no. Beat. Benji nods, yes. He’s not proud of it. Ethan: It happens to the best of us. Of course, most of us come back from that place. But not all.

****

Ethan: If I can bring [Lane] down, I can make everything like it was. Maybe even get you your life back. Benji: Ethan, I’m back. This is my life. This is what I signed up for. Let me help you find him. Ethan: That’s why I brought you here, and look what happened. I gambled with your life tonight and I lost. I can’t be sure how this ends. I can’t protect you. That’s why I need you to leave.

****

Luther: Understand something... Ethan is my friend. If I doubt you forone second whose side you’re really on... I’ll take you out. Brandt considers this, nods. Brandt: I believe you.

****

Ilsa: [...] I can tell you it’s impossible. Ethan and Benji share a look. The game is afoot.

****

Brandt: DNA profiling, facial recognition, gait analysis... drone strikes. Drone surveillance. (points) And that guy can even read your vital signs over your home wifi? He knows you have a heart problem before your doctor does. He shakes his head as if to say: what have we become?

****

Benji: I appreciate everything you’ve done for me but, seriously, one of these days you’re going to take things too far. Benji tries to laugh. Ethan tries to say something but can’t. Benji’s smile gives way to sincerity. Benji: I owe you my life, man. Thank you.

****

Benji has a hood ripped off from his head to find himself seated in a chair, in a hotel room with a sweeping view of downtown London. Before him stands Lane, to his side, Vinter. As Benji glares: Lane: You look like you’ve just seen a ghost. Benji: You’re not a ghost yet... But you will be. Lane smiles, leans in to Benji: Lane: Get him ready, please.

[catinasink]

Introduction

included below: what yall can refer to me as, what my posts are about, and ao3 fics. also i tend to use the queue for posts tagged schoolposting btw :) if you found this through my writing: i will attempt to update at least once every two weeks! please give this a read before following :3 send an ask if you want to be added to my taglist lols

side blog: @catinasink-writes

most recent edit: 01/22/24

name:

catinasink, or cat (no capitalization)

pronouns:

they/it ?? perhaps?? trying those out

age:

minor

labels:

agender neptunic/lesbian aroacespec (cupioromantic or grayromantic, some flavor of ace)

what are my posts about:

i tend to reblog a lot of stuff on my for you page, but i'm also in the marauders fandom and sometimes i post pictures of my cats, and also offer up updates on my writing, also genshin impact

can you tag me/ask me questions/etc:

yes! i would love that

pets:

two cats: kim and shego <3 theyre both girls

likes:

reading, writing, cats, marauders, music

DNI:

MAPs/pedophiles, queerphobes, bigots, the usual ig, also if you're over 25 i would prefer if you didnt interact with me

timezone shit:

the united states, PST

preferences for terms:

pls dont capitalize my name, pls dont formally address me

nono terms: guy, bro, girl, sis, gal, man, etc. (basically pretty much all gendered terms)

ok terms: bbg as long as you dont type it out as babygirl, any petnames are fine

i might call myself a girl or a boy as a joke. dont take this as permission to call me that, pls and thank you x

other random shit:

i would appreciate the use of tone tags if you feel like your words are too vague :>, also asks are open for just about anything

am between slytherin and ravenclaw, however lean more towards slytherin

am INTP-T if you care abt that

Scorpio sun, Sagittarius moon, Scorpio rising (I believe), as well as pandora sun, lily moon, and regulus rising

will post about my classes outside of school, which include: art, aikido, ballroom dance, math, and russian

i speak english n russian

tags:

ramblies/vents/non-reblogs that dont fall into any other categories: #cat's rambles

cat photos/posts mentioning my cat: #cat's cat

fic updates (more of my writing is on my sideblog): #cat's writing

my asks: #cat's asks

my wonderful friend @this-is-me-lolol: #basil my beloved &lt;3

posts i make at school (usually queued): #cat's schoolposting

music related posts: #cat's lyricposting

dear anon: #cat's dear anon

blender anon: #cat's blender anon

dreamscape nexus: #Dreamscape Nexus

Ao3 details

my account

i've got a good feeling that we could be something

rated T

the Selection but rosestarkillerchaser

features the Blacks as the Schreaves

the Order as the rebellion

rosestarkillerchaser, emmarlily, wolfstar

unfinished

watching pixar on a school night

rated T

a texting fic for the marauders 5th year and skittles 4th year

modern au w magic

rosestarkillerchaser, emmarpanlily/sunkeeperflowerseer, wolfstar

background benjy/peter + nobleflower + frank

slowburn

unfinished

they're so pretty it hurts (i'm not talking about boys, i'm talking about girls)

rated T

oneshot about marlene

in the universe of wpoasn

features slavic marlene!! bc that is my love >>

also ace marlene!

2.7k words

finished (oneshot)

dear angel lacy, eyes white as daisies

rated T

in the universe of wpoasn

noblesea (molly and alice) focused

has noblesea, nobleflower, and fralice (polyam alice)

slowburn

unfinished

[luci-in-trenchcoats]

Thunder In Our Hearts (Part 11)

Summary: A week after the kids were taken and brought back home, Ben shares one last secret about himself with the reader...

Masterlist

Pairing: Soldier Boy/Ben x reader

Word Count: 1,500ish

Warnings: language, nudity, violence, drug/abuse/sexual assault/torture mentions

A/N: Spoilers for Season 3 of The Boys! Ah, I’ve adored writing Soldier Boy and this series! While it’s time for this one to come to an end, I’d love to return to Soldier Boy again and even this story in the future!…

__________

“Man, can you believe Homelander destroyed Vought Tower? The man’s a fucking psychopath,” said Joe. You hummed, watching behind your sunglasses as Benjy and Millie used their father as a playground, Brian and Joe’s recently adopted toddler joining in with them. “I’m glad Soldier Boy was able to stop him. Can’t believe Homelander gaslit everyone into thinking he was behind all that shit.”

“I thought we agreed not to bring that up Joesph,” said Brian, stepping away from the grill and over with a cold beer. You raised an eyebrow, peering around him at the other people milling about at the backyard party. 

“What? The whole we know Ben is Soldier Boy thing?” You choked on your drink, Brian whacking your back until you were through coughing. “I didn’t realize it was a secret.”

“Of course it’s a secret! Otherwise Ben and Y/N would have told us,” said Brian with a roll of his eyes. “Sorry Y/N but I knew who Ben was the second I fucking met him. I did a thesis on him in college. Then all the questions over the years about being in the service and combat but he didn’t know basic stuff. It wasn’t hard to put together.”

You swallowed, lifting your shades. “If you know who he is…” 

“Why would I pretend I didn’t? Even when I knew all the fucked up shit he did back in the day? Easy. If you don’t give people a chance to change their stereotypes, how can you expect them to grow? I know you get that. You gave him a chance after all.” You closed your eyes, smiling to yourself. “We approve of him, Y/N. This isn’t a grand plan to expose him or anything. When I say the man’s my best friend, I’m not lying.”

“We won’t say anything to Ben though. We wouldn’t want to make him uncomfortable,” said Joe.

“I appreciate that,” you said with a laugh. “But Ben has pretty good hearing. Like hear through the walls kind of good. He just heard our entire conversation.”

They whipped their heads over to where Ben was playing with the kids, the biggest fucking smile on his face as he laughed and gave us a wave.

“Fuck. So he heard us that time we were talking about how nice his ass looked in those jeans?” asked Joe.

“Yup. We were cracking up the whole way home.” Joe groaned as you chuckled, Brian whacking his shoulder.

“I thought you guys were talking about my ass that night,” he said. 

“Honey, you both have wonderful asses, how about that?” he chuckled. 

“Just for that, I’m putting hot peppers on your burger,” said Brian walking away, Joe racing after him. You giggled and went out to the yard, getting stopped a few times before you were able to see Ben trade off playing duties with about eight different kids with another dad.

“Escape the hoard?” you teased when he stole your beer and threw his arm over your shoulders dramatically.

“The ruskies could learn something about interrogation from those kiddos,” he chuckled, Millie running over with her finger pointed up, a drop of blood on it. “Oh no. What happened here?”

“I don’t know. Can you kiss it better?” she asked. 

“Absolutely,” he said, scooping her up and heading back towards the house, handing you back the beer as you went. “Be right back, kiddo.”

“Kiddo?” asked Ben that night when you were back at home. The kids were fast asleep, you and Ben sat out on the patio next to the fire pit, sharing the oversized chair he’d been so excited to get on sale last month. 

“Old man,” you said, resting your head on his shoulder.

“Notice anything different about me lately?” 

“Oh the fact you lost your powers in the past week? Never noticed,” you chuckled. His arm around your waist tightened. It felt nice but it lacked that threat of bone snapping ability it always had before.

“You’re not mad I made that executive decision on my own?” he asked. 

“It’s your body, your choice. Was it drugs that did it? Or was the blast at the tower too powerful?” you asked.

“When I went in and destroyed the Compound V, I found the anti-V. Apparently they developed it when Homelander became a big risk. I swiped it and gave it to Mallory. They’re going to give it to him and take away the risk of him ever waking up. Maybe we can get rid of powers in the first place too,” he said. 

“When’d you take it?” you asked.

“Before I met up with you guys at the motel. I wasn’t sure if it’d kill me cause I’m technically an old man,” he chuckled. “Turns out I have the body of a healthy forty five year old so you’re stuck with me for a while.”

“Sick of the powers?” 

“I had fears about the potential radiation, even if Mallory said it was harmless. Mostly I want to grow old with you and not outlive our kids. No amount of torture could be worse than losing all of you.” You titled your head up in time for Ben to rest his cheek against your forehead, a happy little smile on his face. “Still want me kiddo?”

“Yup,” you hummed, wrapping your arms around his waist. “Still want you, old man.”

“I was thinking we clear out some of the trees off to the side there, expand the house. Throw in a bedroom or two, a playroom. What do you think?” You grinned sitting upright. Ben pulled you to sit in his lap, bumping his nose against yours. “We’re safe and there’s zero chance this child would be a supe. What do you think?”

“I think you love being a daddy,” you said. You kissed him quickly, giggling to yourself. “As long as it’s not twins this time then I am all for having another.”

“Millie and Benjy will be good big siblings,” he said. He stroked a finger lazily up and down your arm, humming to himself. “I love you so fucking much, Y/N. I will never be able to show you how grateful I am that you saved me. Were patient with me. I know I’m not perfect. I’ll never be that. But for the first time, I have a family that’s proud of me and loves me. Whatever you want, it’s yours. Just ask and it’s yours.”

You pursed your lips as if in deep thought. “Well, I would like something.”

“Name it,” he said, kissing the top of your head. “Anything at all.”

“It’s a big ask.” He just shook his head, still wearing a smile. “Alright then. I would like…a kiss.”

“A kiss?” 

“Yup. A big ole, sweep me off my feet kiss,” you said. He chuckled, leaning down and smirking. “What are-”

He planted a big, fat, rough kiss on your lips, gripping your tight as he stole your breath away. 

“You’re so easy to please,” he laughed when you needed air, his hot breath fanning over your face. “Damn I love you.”

“I love you too, Benjamin,” you said, hugging him, inhaling the scent of his fading cologne mixed with campfire. “Want to go make that baby?”

“In a minute, kiddo. I want to sit out here with you for a little while.”

“Who said we have to go inside to make the baby?” you teased. He raised his eyebrows, a big smile growing on his face. “I’m pretty sure the twins were made down by the dock if I recall correctly.”

“I ever mention how much I adore you?” he laughed, squeezing your hips gently.

“Doesn’t hurt to be reminded,” you said. He nuzzled under your jaw, kissing your pulse point as you shuddered. “Old man?”

“Yeah kiddo?”

“I know…you saved me too. I was so angry and scared when we met and you are the kindest man I could ever have hoped for. I wanted you to know that.” He closed his eyes, letting his head rest on your shoulder. You ran your fingers through his strands, Ben curling into the touch. “Was it worth waiting for me? Because I know it was waiting to find you.”

He raised his head, eyes glimmering as he smiled. “You were worth every second. Maybe I had to wait longer than I would have liked, than most, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I’d do it all again because you’re my girl and she’s amazingly mine.” He kissed you gently, sweetly, the loving, kind Ben you’d fallen in love with on full display tonight. “And I’m hers and there’s nothing I’d do to change that.”

“Sweet-talking old man,” you teased.

“You kids with your internet and made up words,” he laughed right back. He brushed a strand of hair behind your ear, kissing you once more. “Love you Y/N.”

“Love you too, Soldier Boy.”

___________

A/N: Read the He Knows Timestamp here!

[sailor-aviator]

Don't Hang'em Til Noon: Chapter Six

Don't Hange'm Til Noon: Chapter Six

Pairing: Jake “Hangman” Seresin x Reader

Summary: Jake "Hangman" Seresin is a notorious leader within the Dagger posse of the old western territories of the United States. You, a recently orphaned socialite from the eastern seaboard, find yourself swept off to live with your older brother who has set down roots in said western territory. Determined to to make the best of your situation, what will you do when said outlaw sets his sights on you?

Warnings: Swearing, Smut (oral, f receiving), Jake Seresin. I think that's it?

Word Count: 6.4k (I'm so sorry, oh my god)

A/N: I have no words for this one. I warned y'all the train scene was gonna be something else. Also, shoutout to @im-just-ken for taking the time to do research for me and putting up with informing me about all of the different aspects of the Victorian Age!! You're the best!! As always, reboots, comments and likes are greatly appreciated!! 18+ ONLY!! Find me on AO3 under sailor_aviator!

Series Masterlist || DPU Masterlist || Jake "Hangman" Seresin Tag List

The sky was overcast and the distant rumble of thunder sounded off in the distance. Autumn was beginning to give way to winter, and a new routine had settled in over the ranch in the three weeks since Jake had started working there.

“What are you doing here?” you had asked him with wide eyes. His smirk had widened at your flustered appearance. Your mind raced back to the events of the night before and you gave your tomatoes a run for their money with how red your cheeks must have been.

“Didn’t your brother tell you?” Jake asked, quirking an eyebrow at your brother. “I work here.”

“No, you don’t,” you gaped, glancing wildly back and forth between the two men. “Since when?”

“As of yesterday afternoon,” Benjamin sighed, casting you a sideways glance.

“But, why?”

“You made it pretty clear yesterday morning that you were only interested in men who work for a living,” he explained, cocking his head to the side with a bemused look in your direction.

“I didn’t mean here!” you spluttered.

“Well, Benji here was kind enough to offer me a job,” Jake nodded at the other man. “Isn’t that right, Benjamin?”

Benjamin let out a sigh that sounded something akin to “lovesick fools” as he turned to stalk off towards the barn. You stared after him helplessly before Jake cleared his throat, gaining your attention. His smirk was gone, replaced by a much more serious look as he gazed at you.

“I’m not going to cause any trouble,” he stated, shaking his head when you gave him a dubious look. “I mean it. I’m here to work and earn my livin’ like a man should. I give you my word.”

You studied him for a moment. His green eyes held a look of sincerity and a desperation for you to believe him. You sighed. “Alright, Jake. I’m taking you at your word.”

“Excellent,” he beamed down at you before giving you a stern look. “Now go on and get now. I’m tryin’ to work and you’re distracting me.”

You chuckled lightly, giving him a small smile. Jake’s stern expression dropped, a look of wonder replacing it as he stared at you. A moment passed before he broke out in a grin and turned his attention back towards the fence.

Now, an air of easiness had settled between the two of you as life on the ranch continued. Jake worked hard, and he never complained about what was asked of him, even going above and beyond on a couple of occasions. You had even found him napping in the barn one day after a night where the coyotes had been particularly active, and you had allowed the poor man to catch up on his rest in thanks.

You were on your knees in the garden, digging up the onions you had planted a while ago, when you heard the sound of a horse making its way up the path to your home. Looking up, you saw U.S. Marshal Simpson making his way to you. You wiped the sweat from your brow, stumbling to your feet despite the numbness that had paralyzed your limbs from sitting on them for too long. Beau Simpson smiled at you as he dismounted, walking over to meet you by the fence to your garden.

“Marshal Simpson,” you greeted politely.

“Afternoon, Scout,” he said. “Please, call my Beau.”

“Of course,” you smiled. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Well, I was hopin’ you could help me out with something.”

“And what is that?”

He looked out to the empty pasture before glancing at you from the corner of his eye. “Was hoping you could tell me where I might find Jake Seresin.”

Your blood ran cold. You knew he was probably out with the others, moving the cattle in from the far pasture, but you weren’t about to tell Beau Simpson that.

“And why would you think that, Beau?”

He fixed you with a look that said he knew you knew why he’d think that, but he played along. “Well, amongst other things, I heard he managed to get himself a job here against your brother’s better judgement.”

“You shouldn’t gossip, Beau. It’s the Devil’s pastime.”

He let out a laugh at that one. “Well, from what I hear, it’s hardly gossip, Scout, but alright. You seen him around?”

“Can’t say that I have,” you responded cooly, picking at the dirt underneath your fingernails. It wasn’t a lie, exactly. You had told him the truth, you reasoned with yourself. You hadn’t seen Jake that day. Beau was quiet for a moment, studying you thoughtfully before letting out a long sigh.

“You should be careful, Scout,” he began, pushing up off the railing. “It won’t do you any good to get tangled up with someone who’s due a hanging. You might end up caught in the rope yourself, if you aren’t careful.”

You didn’t respond. He tipped his hat to you before moving towards his horse. You watched as he mounted and made his way back towards town. You stared after him long after he disappeared from sight before walking slowly back into the house. You went upstairs to wash the dirt from your face and hands before setting out to make dinner. It was a couple of hours before the four ranch hands made their way through the back door, laughing and smiling the entire way. You scowled at the group of men.

“What do you all think you’re doing?” you snapped. Four pairs of wide, shocked eyes turned to look at you, the laughter and chatter stopping immediately. You glared down at the floor where their boots had left muddy shoe prints on the hardwood. They followed your gaze before slowly looking back up at you with sheepish grins.

“Sorry, Scout,” Levi apologize, already moving back towards the door. “We’ll go get washed up outside.”

The others murmured their agreement and filed out after him. Jake was the last to move for the door, and you quickly grabbed his hand, pulling him back. He turned to stare at you, surprise turning into a question.

“I need to talk to you,” you said. He smiled down at you with a wicked gleam in his eyes.

“Oh yeah, honey girl?” he drawled. “What about?”

“Marshal Simpson came by today.”

“Cyclone?” Jake asked, taken aback. “What did he want?”

You dropped his hand, and moved towards the stove where you had left dinner unattended momentarily. “Came by to ask if I had seen you.”

“Oh?” he questioned, leaning up against the wall by the door, watching you with an unreadable expression on his face. You hummed, nodding.

“Don’t worry, I told him I didn’t know where you were.”

He seemed surprised at that, pushing off from the wall and coming to stand by your side. “What?”

“I told him I hadn’t seen you. It wasn’t a lie, technically,” You rushed out. Jake stared at you incredulously before frowning.

“You’re not telling me something,” he said, narrowing his eyes at you. You glanced at him before looking back down at the pot of soup you were stirring. “What else did he say to you?”

You sighed and recounted what Beau had said. Jake swore, turning and running a hand through his hair. “I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about,” you offered in a huff. Jake whirled back to look at you, worry lines crinkling his brow.

“Nothing to worry about?” he laughed humorlessly. “Scout, don’t you know a threat when you hear one?”

“I don’t see why he would be threatening me,” you argued, hands on your hips. “I’ve done nothing wrong.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve done something or not, sweetheart,” he groaned out. “He knows I work here, and he knows what to go after now.”

“I don’t understand,” you frowned. “You weren’t this worried when I mentioned him before. Why are you now? What changed?”

Jake stared at you for a moment. He moved to say something, but the door swung open as the other ranch hands filed in.

“You better go get washed up quick, Hangman,” Phillip laughed, clapping Jake on the back before taking a seat at the table. “Might not be any food left for you when you get back.”

Jake gave a half-hearted smile to the other man before giving you one last look and walking out the back door.

The next morning, business continued on as usual. You had just hung the laundry out to dry when you heard the front door creak open with a thud as it hit the wall.

“Scout!”

You walked into the parlor where Benjamin stood, grinning wide as he searched for you. His smile grew impossibly wider as his eyes finally landed on you. He raised his hand up to reveal an envelope, and he shook it in excitement.

“Benji, wha-”

“It’s a letter from Aunt Jo!” he cried excitedly. You let out a happy cry of your own as you rushed forward. Your Aunt Josephine had been your mother’s older sister, and you had spent many days running around in her orchard growing up. She was a kind woman, and she had helped to fill the void of your mother’s passing. It had been hard to leave her behind.

“Have you opened it?” You were practically vibrating from excitement. Benjamin shook his head.

“No, I wanted to read it with you.”

“Well, go on!” you laughed, gesturing for him to open it. He did so, eyes scanning the paper quickly.

“She wants us to come for a visit,” he smiled, looking up at you. Your grin matched his own as you hopped excitedly.

“What’s going on here?”

The both of you turned to see Jake standing in the doorway with an amused glint in his eyes as he watched the two of you giggle like school children. You felt heat rise to your cheeks.

“Our Aunt Josephine wrote to us,” you explained in a hurry. “She wants us to come visit.”

“Yeah?” Jake grinned at your enthusiasm. “When?”

“Says she wants us to come up for Christmas,” Benjamin frowned, scanning the letter over. Your heart jumped at the idea of seeing a white Christmas again. You thought it was one of the many things you had given up when you moved out west to Maverick. Benjamin lowered the letter with a grim expression. “I can’t go.”

“What?” you cried, looking over at him. “What do you mean?”

“I mean,” he said slowly, “that I can’t go. There’s too much work to be done here on the ranch, and I can’t take the weeks off from the firm.”

“Oh,” you said dejectedly. “Well, we’ll have to write back to Aunt Jo to tell her we’ll come at another time, then.”

“No, Scout,” Benjamin said firmly. “Just because I can’t go, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. I know how much you miss it there, and the trip will mean so much more to you than it will me, anyway. No, I insist. You’re going.”

“But, Benji-”

“I’ve already made up my mind,” he said, offering you a smile. “Now we just need to find someone to go with you. Ah, but Hondo and Joel aren’t do back for weeks now. Maybe I could get Tom to-”

“I’ll do it.”

Both of you turned to look at Jake. His eyes darted between the two of you as you gaped at him.

“What?” Benjamin questioned. Jake cleared his throat and stood up a little straighter.

“I’ll go with her,” he said firmly. Your eyes darted to Benjamin who was already looking at you. He cocked his head as if to say that he was okay with it if you were. You bit your lip, mulling your options over. You worried about the implications that might arise at having a man who wasn’t family show up with you in Baltimore. But you knew that Jake could be trusted. He had shown you the kind of man he was capable of being, and you trusted him enough by this point to know you would be safe.

“Yes,” you said finally. “Alright, it’ll be the two of us.”

Two days later you were adding the final items to your bag for your journey. Benjamin had already sent a reply back to your Aunt Josephine explaining the circumstances, but had told her you were eagerly preparing for your trip. You had just placed your last skirt in your bag when something caught your eye. You glanced up to see the wooden horse still standing proudly on your end table. You chewed on your bottom lip, slowly walking over to grab the figurine. You smoothed over the back of it before turning it over in your hand to stare at the initials that were carved into its belly.

“Scout? The cart is ready, and Benjamin wanted me to-”

You looked up to see Jake standing in your doorway. His eyes were focused on the wooden statue in your hand before they slowly traveled up to look into your eyes.

“You kept it?”

“Of course I kept it,” you scowled at him. “Why wouldn’t I?”

He shrugged, a smile tugging on the corners of his lips. “You were just so mad at me then. I didn’t think you’d care enough to keep it.”

“Well,” you mumbled, trying to come up with something, anything to weasel your way out of the conversation. “I did.”

Jake studied you for a moment before smiling. “You almost done packin’? Your brother’s waiting downstairs to send us off.”

“Yes,” you breathed, thankful for the out he had offered you. “You go on ahead. I’ll be down in just a minute.”

He nodded before turning and walking off. You let out a sigh, looking back down at the wooden horse. You walked back towards the foot of your bed where your bag lay, and gently placed it on top before closing the clutch and heading downstairs.

The first couple of days passed without incident. Benjamin had wished you to a safe and pleasant journey, watching you as Jake drove the cart down the street. The two of you camped out under the stars of the wilderness, Jake making sure you were plenty warm and comfortable in the back of the cart before settling down on the blanket he would set by the fire.

“You don’t have to sleep on the ground,” you told him on the third night. He had looked up to where you hung over the side of the cart to look at him. “There’s more than enough room to fit the both of us comfortably.”

Jake had let out a low laugh before giving you a look that made your core clench. “Honey girl, I already have to sit next to you during the day. I wouldn’t be able to keep my hands to myself if I didn’t have this time to cool down.”

You blushed at his words and had quickly rolled over to try and get some sleep.

Jake was a surprisingly good cook, and an even better shot. The two of you survived off the bread and produce you had purchased from the general store as well as the rabbits Jake managed to shoot during your camp-outs. By the fifth day, you had run out of polite conversation topics, and the two of you drifted towards more personal ones.

“Do you have any siblings?” you asked him that afternoon. Jake quirked an eyebrow at you in amusement. “What?”

“You wanna know if I have any siblings?”

“You already know about Benjamin,” you pointed out. “I think it’s only fair if I know about any siblings you have.”

“Alright, Scout,” he hummed with a smile. “If you must know, I have an older sister.”

“What’s her name?”

“Sarah,” he smiled. “She’s about two years older than me, and she has a son named Billy who’s a little terror of a kid.”

He smiled down at you, and you returned the gesture. He turned his head back to the road and frowned. “Her husband died just after Billy was born. So, I’ve been tryin’ to help her out where I can. She works in town as a seamstress, but the hours are long, and the pay is shit.”

“What about your parents?” you asked, and he gave you a wry smile.

“They died in the scarlet fever epidemic that swept through Maverick years back. The same one that took out Rooster’s mama and daddy and Bob’s pops. It was a real mess there for a while, but Mav and Penny took us all in, gave us a roof over our heads and put food in our bellies. I don’t think any of us were really much of the same after that, though.”

“Jake,” your heart broke for him. “That’s awful. I’m so sorry.”

“Ain’t nothin’ for you to be sorry ‘bout, sweet girl. We get along just fine now. Jus’ wish my sister didn’t have to work so damn hard all the time, is all. Don’t wanna see her work herself into an early grave.”

You hesitated. “Is that why you do what you do? Steal, I mean.”

Jake didn’t answer for a moment. “That’s one reason. I’d do anything for my sister and that kid of hers. The money and treasures I get from doin’ all those jobs mostly goes to help her out.”

“And the other reason?” you asked. Jake pursed his lips, contemplating his next words.

“Rooster was real torn up about his parents. I, at least, had Sarah. Bradley? He didn’t have anyone. Think something died in him the day he lost the both of’em. He started acting out when we got older, and before long he was out robbin’ banks and all sorts of other shit. I think a part of him just wanted to hurt the world the same way it hurt him, and he decided that that meant he had to take. Take what isn’t his, and keep taking before the world takes from him again.”

“And what about you? Why did you join him? Why did any of you?”

“We’re not goin’ to leave a friend to walk through hell alone,” he stated with a shrug of his shoulders. You studied his profile for a moment.

“You’re a good man, Jake Seresin.”

You saw the tips of his ears flush a bright crimson. He cleared his throat and turned to look at you with a playful glare.

“Alright, you’re turn,” he smirked. “Which of my friends do you like the most? And if you say Javy, I’m dumping you on the side of the road.”

Steam billowed as a train whistle sounded on the platform. Jake was handing your luggage over to the conductor as you surveyed the station. It was still the same as when you had arrived months ago, but you felt that you yourself had changed. You supposed you had.

“Are you ready? Guy says we’re leavin’ in a couple of minutes,” Jake said as he sidled up to you, placing a gentle arm around your shoulder.

“Yes, I’m ready,” you smiled at him, allowing him to steer you towards the train car. The conductor reached out a hand to you, and you took it gratefully. You felt your cheeks flush as Jake laid his hands gently on your hips, lifting you onto the step as the conductor pulled you up. Jake followed after you, and the two of you quickly found seats near the middle of the car. You sat by the window as Jake sat across from you just as the train began to lurch forward. Jake jumped at the sudden movement, shoulders and face tense.

“Are you alright?” You asked him, reaching out to rest your hand on top of his. He glanced at you, then took a deep breath to relax.

“Jus’ never been on one of these before,” he answered, offering you a nervous smile. You returned the smile, patting his hand before pulling away.

“Yes, I suppose it can be a tad nerve-wrecking when you’re not used to it.”

“You travel a lot?” he asked you, watching as you turned to look out the window.

You shrugged. “Not so much anymore. I used to take trips with my friends up to New York every now and then.”

“You must miss it,” he murmured, eyes never leaving you. You looked at him.

“I miss them.”

Jake frowned, his turn to look out the window at the landscape that rushed past you. “Well, you’ll see’em soon enough.”

You weren’t sure how to respond, but before you could, and older woman and her husband joined you in your seats. Jake was polite, but you could sense something was off with him as his smile never quite reached his eyes. You retired for the evening, wishing the older couple a pleasant evening as Jake rose to walk you to your sleeping quarters. You stopped in front of the door to your cabin, looking up at Jake with a coy smile.

“I’m fairly certain that couple thinks we’re married,” you chuckled. Jake’s face remained stoic as he watched you.

“Would that be so bad?” he asked softly, voice barely above a whisper. Your smile dropped as your eyes widened up at him.

“What?”

Jake watched you for another half second before shaking his head with a sigh.

“Nothing,” he muttered, knocking his fist on the doorframe twice before turning to head to his own cabin. “Goodnight, Scout.”

You watched him as he closed his door behind him before turning into your own cabin, shutting the door behind you.

The next morning you found yourself only hours away from St.Louis. You dressed slowly before walking over to Jake’s cabin. When he didn’t answer your knock, you decided to see if he had gone on ahead. You found him minutes later in the dining car, nursing a cup of coffee. He looked tired, bags heavy under his eyes as he looked out the window. A couple of women at the table next to him were casting him barely concealed glances as they giggled amongst each other. You marched down the aisle and sat in the seat across from him. He started at your entry, but relaxed when he realized it was you.

“You’re up early this morning,” you commented. He hummed at you, taking another sip from his coffee. You pressed on. “Are you usually such an early riser?”

“Yeah, I suppose so,” he grumbled, and you pursed your lips.

“Is something the matter?” you asked. He glanced at you.

“Do you ever think about getting married?”

The question caught you off guard, and you balked before fixing him with a curious look.

“Sometimes,” you admitted slowly. “I suppose most girls do. It’s something we’re raised to do, after all.”

“But do you want to?” he asked, eyes twinkling.

“Yes,” you stated, shifting in your seat. “I do. Someday.”

“And what about the groom? Who is it you want to spend the rest of your life with?”

You scowled at him. “Why are you suddenly asking me this?”

Jake just stared at you, waiting for you to continue. You huffed. “I suppose I’ve never really given it too much thought. I knew I would have to get married one day, and I assumed that one day I might fall in love with someone. There were several young men pushed for me to choose, but I suppose none of them ever felt right.”

“What about you?” you asked suddenly. “Have you ever thought about marriage?”

“Me?” Jake laughed, leaning back in his seat. “Not really. Never thought I’d like anyone enough to want to spend the rest of my life with them. Used to laugh at the idea of ever finding someone who could make me want to settle down.”

“And now?”

Jake’s expression remained amused, but there was a hint of an emotion behind his eyes that, try as you might, you couldn’t place. Jake glanced out the window and made to stand up. “Looks like we’re here.”

The train ride from St. Louis to Baltimore started off much of the same, except this time you were seated next to a group of young women who openly gawked and giggled over the handsome man across from you. You felt a rush of irritation as one dropped her hand fan in the aisle. Jake reached down to grab it for her, staring up at her with a polite smile.

“I think you dropped this,” he offered as she took it. Your blood boiled when she batted her eyes at him with a coy smile.

“Thank you, handsome,” she grinned as her friends broke out into another round of giggles. Jake cleared his throat with a wince as he leaned back into his seat. You stood up abruptly, and Jake was left scrambling to his feet.

“I’m tired,” you announced, making a pointed effort to not look at the girls. “I’m going to bed.”

“Sounds like a good idea,” Jake agreed, following down the aisle after you. Neither of you said a word to the other as you made your way towards your cabin for the evening. Stopping in front of the door, you turned to look at Jake.

“This is me,” you said. Jake looked at the number on the cabin and then down at the ticket in his hand.

“That can’t be right,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair.

“What?” you frowned. Jake looked up at you and then back down to his ticket before letting out a sigh.

“Ticket says this is my cabin too.”

“What?” you shrieked, snatching the ticket from his hand. “Give me that.”

You stared down at the black ink, willing the information to change. You glanced at Jake who was still watching you, waiting for you to come to terms with the situation.

“What do you want to do?” he asked finally.

“Well, we’ll just have to find the conductor and get this mess sorted out.”

“Alright,” he nodded. “I’ll go try and find him. You stay here.”

A half hour passed before Jake slunk back to the cabin looking defeated. He offered you an apologetic smile. “I couldn’t find him.”

You chewed on your bottom lip before letting out a heavy sigh.

“I suppose it can’t be helped,” you muttered, turning to open the door. “Come on, then.”

“What?” He said, eyes growing wide.

“Look,” you gritted out as you stepped through the door, “we can be adults about this. It’s one night.”

“But-”

“Would you rather sleep out here?” You argued. Jake didn’t respond. “That’s what I thought. Now come on.”

Jake followed you into the cabin silently, closing the door behind him. You moved to open your luggage that had been placed inside when you boarded, taking out your nightdress. You turned to see Jake still staring at you. The two of you stood in the tiny space facing each other for a moment.

“I need to change,” you whispered, swallowing thickly.

“Yeah, I’ll just,” Jake stuttered, moving to turn.

“Don’t look,” you threw in for good measure, earning a nervous chuckle from the man in front of you. You turned around, quickly undressing before throwing your nightdress on. You turned back around to see Jake still facing the door.

“Okay,” you breathed. “I’m decent.”

Jake turned around to face you, and you heard his breath catch in his throat. He slowly looked you up and down before meeting your gaze again. “My turn.”

You watched as Jake removed his shirt. You blushed when he pushed his pants down to reveal the white, knee-length undergarments he wore. You took in the smattering of blond hair that covered his broad chest, almost blending in with the gold of his skin. Jake cleared his throat and glanced at the bed.

“How do you wanna,” he trailed off. You looked at the bed and made your decision. You brushed past him, moving to lay down. You laid back, glancing up at him shyly. Jake watched you in a reverie, breaths coming out quick and stuttered as he looked down at you. He turned to dim the gas lamp, casting the room in darkness save for the moonlight that filtered through the window. Silently, slowly, he laid down in the bed next to you.

The two of you laid in silence for almost an hour, Jake’s back to you as you fidgeted with your fingers.

“Jake?” you called out softly. “Are you still awake?”

“Yes.”

You rolled onto your side, facing his back. “You never answered my question.”

Jake rolled over so that you two were now facing each other. “What question is that, pretty girl?”

“Back at the ranch, when I told you what Beau said, I asked you why you were suddenly so worried about him when you weren’t before.”

Jake didn’t say anything for a moment. “Do you know why they call him ‘Cyclone?’”

You shook your head.

“They call him that because when he sets his mind on a job, he comes in with a fury, leaving nothing behind, just like a tropical storm.”

“Oh,” you breathed.

“Yeah,” Jake agreed, reaching up to cup your cheek.

“Are you scared?” you asked him quietly, and he gave you a wry smile.

“Only of something happening to you, sweet girl.”

You reached up to run your fingertips over his cheek, running them down until they brushed over his lips. He parted them slightly, looking at you with eyes ablaze. Before you could think on it, you surged forward, planting your lips on his. Jake quickly deepened the kiss, bringing his other hand up to your hip to pull you close. He grabbed the flesh of your thigh as he lifted your leg up to drape over his waist. You parted your lips at the movement, and he took advantage of it, licking into your mouth with a desperation that left your head dizzy. You moaned into his mouth, pushing yourself against him as he slowly guided you up into a sitting position.

You grabbed at any part of him that you could reach, whining when he broke the kiss. He chuckled as you chased his lips with your own, but fixed you with a serious look in his eye.

“Tell me to stop,” he said softly, hand skimming the ends of your nightdress. “Tell me to stop, and I swear I will, y/n.”

“Don’t stop,” you responded breathlessly. Jake leaned in to grant you another kiss before pulling back to lift your dress over your head. The cool air of the night washed over you, and you suddenly felt exposed as he drank in your naked form. You moved to cover yourself, but he grabbed your arms, gently leaning you back down onto the bed as he hovered over you.

“Don’t,” he said firmly, the green of his eyes swallowed by the blacks of his pupils. “I want to look at you.”

You watched him as he drank in your form, hands softly gliding down to rest on your hips. A small smile played at the edge of his lips.

“You look so pretty for me, honey girl,” he hummed. Your breath caught in your throat as he parted your legs. Leaning back to take all of you in, his eyes blazed with want as he stared down at your most intimate part. He surged forward, capturing your lips in an unexpected kiss before trailing hot, open-mouthed kisses down the column of your neck. He sucked a bruising kiss onto the base of your neck, you gasped as you felt the hard, covered length of him push against your dripping core. One of his hands reached up to grasp your breast as his mouth encased around one of your nipples. You mewled, thoughtlessly pushing your chest up into his warm mouth. He pulled off of your hardening peak with a low chuckle.

“You gotta be quiet, pretty girl,” he smirked down at you, fingers still toying with the nipple that hadn’t just been in his mouth. “Don’t want to disturb the other passengers, do we?”

He didn’t give you a chance to answer before his mouth was attached back to you. You squirmed underneath him, desperate for more of the mind-numbing pleasure you knew he could give you. Jake was in no hurry, though. He took his time lapping at your sensitive bud before switching his attention to the other. Your head fell back in frustration as your hands moved up to tug on his blond strands.

“Jake, please” you moaned. Jake gave you a playful glare before giving a particularly hard pinch to your breast that had you crying out.

“Greedy girl,” he rumbled, leaning up to kiss you, nipping at your bottom lip. “You’ll take what I give you, understand?”

You nodded your head desperately, and Jake hummed in approval. Mercifully, he trailed his lips down your body, giving fleeting sucks and nips to your nipples before moving further down. Your breath hitched as he shifted down the bed, face level with the junction of your legs. He teased open-mouthed kisses up and down your thighs, never touching you where you wanted him most, and you began to squirm yet again. Jake moved to wrap his arms around your thighs, caging them in his hold so that you couldn’t move. He nuzzled up into your mound before making eye contact with you.

“Been thinkin’ about this for weeks, honey girl,” he murmured, breath fanning over you and making you cry out. “Been thinkin’ about how sweet you tasted that night in the alley. Fucked my hand at the thought about all those little noises you made jus’ for me as I made you fall apart on my fingers. Fuck, you squeezed me so tight. Imagined what it would be like to have my cock buried in this pretty pussy instead of my fingers.”

“Jake!” you cried out at his words. You let out another cry as he snaked a finger around to run gently run through your folds.

“Look at you, darlin’. I’ve barely touched you and you’re already soaked. You’re practically drippin’ on the bed for me. The thought of takin’ my fat cock inside of you makin’ you this wet? Jesus, I see you clenching. This greedy, little cunt is practically beggin’ for me.”

“Jakey, please,” you sobbed, feeling the tears start to prickle behind your eyes. Jake continued his torture, finger now grazing lightly over your clit, and your hips started to buck up into him before he pushed them back down.

“Uh, uh, sweetheart,” he chided, casting you a light glare. “You take what I give you, remember?”

You whined as he began to draw tiny figure eights on your sensitive nub.

“That’s it, darlin’. You just lie back and take it. Let Jakey make you feel good, yeah?” he drawled, sinking a finger into you. He let out a low groan as you clenched tightly around the digit. “Fuck, pretty girl. Love the way you grip me like that. My pretty pussy is just beggin’ for me to fill her up, huh?”

You felt yourself clench at the thought, and he chuckled, adding a second finger.

“Yeah, she likes the sound of that. Loves the idea of me pumpin’ into you until I give you everythin’ I have to give.”

You cried out when he pulled out of you, but his fingers were quickly replaced with the feel of his tongue diving into you. You raised your hand to bite your fist in an attempt to keep quiet. He thrust his fingers back into you as his mouth moved to nurse on your clit, sending you headfirst towards your orgasm.

“Been thinkin’ about this since I tasted you the first time, honey girl. Couldn’t wait to get my mouth on you and get my fix. Never gonna get my fix, though. Taste too good for me to ever have my fill o’ you,” he rasped. You watched his hips rut into the mattress as he feasted on you, your slick coating his lips as he nipped at your bud. Your legs began to shake as he continued to eat you out like a man starved.

“Jakey,” you cried out as his fingers hit that spongy spot inside of you that made you see stars.

“Yeah, honey? Did I find your special spot again? Fuck, you’re squeezin’ me so tight. Can’t wait to sink my cock into you and fill you up with my cum. You want that? You want me to fill you up pretty girl?” he asked you breathlessly, the pace of his hips quickening against the mattress. “That’s okay, you don’t gotta answer me. Your cunt is doin’ all the talkin’ for you. She’s weepin’ for me to pump my load into you, get you nice and swollen with my baby.”

The tears flowed freely down your cheeks now. You flung a hand over your face, but Jake was having none of it.

“Look at me, sugar. Wanna see your face as you fall apart for me. Fuck, I’m gonna keep you so full. Gonna keep you all nice and round while I take care of you. Gonna take care of my gorgeous, little wifey.”

You cried out as your vision went white, his words flinging you over the edge. You watched his own eyes widen as you came apart, his hips stuttering against the mattress as he let out a whimper into your core. You ground your hips down into him as you rode out your high, and Jake grunted as his hips stilled, shaking with the strain.

You slowly came back to yourself, a sheen of sweat covering your body as Jake pressed soft, gentle kisses up the length of your body before pressing reaching up to stroke your cheek affectionately. You met his gaze, his green eyes watching you. Your chest rose quickly as you fought to control your breathing, and Jake gave you a small smile before placing a chaste kiss to your lips.

“Sleep now, honey girl,” he whispered as he dragged the blanket over you. You reached out for him, and he pulled you into his chest with a slight chuckle and one last kiss to the top of your head.

[joes-sha-la-la-la-girl]

Love Bites: Chapter 12

Series Masterlist

Warnings: Smut

Tammy’s sister had managed to get all of Y/N’s stuff out and moved it into Tammy's place. Apparently, whilst she had been sorting everything out, Doug had come home but by that point it was too late, Tammy’s sister only had a couple of items left to get and they were all replaceable. Y/N had told her on the phone not to worry about what she couldn’t get, the singer was just grateful that she wouldn’t have to see Doug again. 

However, Y/N now didn’t feel safe going to Tammy’s after the tour was over. As Doug had seen Tammy’s sister moving the stuff out, Y/N knew that he would know where she was. She tried not to let any of that bother her though because now her and Joe could be as open as they wanted to be. 

The tour progressed without any problems for the next week. Both singers were happy that they could finally be out in the open without any worries of being caught.

They had a week off and both bands were booked into a hotel. Joe insisted that he and Y/N share, earning no protest from the Ultraviolet singer, or Sav for that matter, who usually shared a room with Joe and didn’t want to be shut out for hours at a time.

As it was their week off, Joe decided to take Y/N out for a date. The only problem was that he was not familiar with the area and had no idea where he wanted to take her. 

“Why don’t you just go on a walk with her?” Sav suggested when his best friend came to him for advice.

“Just a walk?”

“Well, she’ll probably appreciate something calm after being on tour with us for so long. And it’ll give you the chance to get to know her better.”

“I suppose that could work.”

“You also could find out what sort of stuff she does like for when you plan your next date.” Sav pointed out.

“Okay. A walk then.” Joe still didn’t sound convinced.

“Or don’t if you’re not interested.” Sav shrugged.

“You’re right though.”

“I always am.”

“Funny. I meant that it would be good so I can set up our next date. With that Joe left the room, going back to his and Y/N’s so that they could get ready to go.

*

“This is really nice Joe.” Y/N smiled as they walked around. 

“It was Sav’s idea really.” Joe told her, slightly bashful, that he almost turned the idea down.

“Well either way, I’m having a nice time. I don’t like to go too overboard with dates y’know.” She said, unknowingly giving Joe some ideas for their second date. He now knew that she didn’t like to make a fuss. Y/N had also told him what foods she did and didn’t like after Joe had tried and failed to subtly ask her.

“So how come you moved to London?” Joe asked as a short silence fell over them.

“For music I guess. Tammy and I grew up together and always had a passion for music. We used to put on shows for our families. Anyway, we both decided that we wanted to move to London to start a band and our parents didn’t think it would work.

“I met Doug about a week or so after we moved and started dating him. He was charming then mind you. We met Benji in the pub and then Johnny joined after Benji introduced us.”

“Wow. I’m sorry your parents weren’t more supportive.” Joe told her. Y/N just shrugged with a small smile on her face. 

“Worked out though.”

“I don’t know what I would have done if not for my parents. Def Leppard wouldn’t be about, that's for sure.” Joe grinned softly.

The two of them wandered around for a while longer, just talking about their bands and getting to know each other better.

*

When they got back to the hotel, they walked up to their room and stood outside the door.

“I think I am supposed to just drop you off with the promise of another date, but since this is my room too, may I come in?” Joe asked cheekily.

Y/N laughed and leaned up to kiss him gently. “Of course.”

Joe led Y/N into their room, not breaking the kiss. He ran his hands down her sides after he kicked the door shut.

“Jump.” He murmured against her lips before he helped her wrap her legs around his waist. Joe walked, with Y/N clung onto him, to their bed and carefully laid her down. He slipped the dress she was wearing off and was pleasantly surprised when he saw that she was not wearing a bra.

“Oh love, you’re so beautiful.”

Y/N blushed at the compliment and turned her head away from him.

“Don’t hide from me sweetheart.” Joe moved his hands to her face and made her look at him. He smiled at her before recapturing her lips in another passionate kiss. He then trailed his lips down to her neck, quickly finding the spot that made her moan.

When she let out the little whimper he was hoping for, he sucked gently. Y/N pulled away slightly, only to pull his t-shirt off of his head and move her hands down to his belt. Joe quickly helped her, wriggled out of his trousers and underwear before he then took off hers.

Y/N bucked her hips up as she felt his fingers ghost over her.

“Can I ride you?” She asked him in a tone he couldn’t refuse. Joe didn’t say anything as he allowed himself to be flipped over. Y/N reached over and grabbed a condom that was conveniently left on the bedside table. She opened it, discarding the rubbish on the floor and rolled it down onto Joe.

He couldn’t think of anything as Y/N started to grind on him, causing him to let out a groan. “Please love.” Joe begged, earning a smirk in return.

Y/N reached down and grabbed his cock, lining it up and then sinking down on him. Joe gripped her hips so hard that he left white finger marks, however, Y/N couldn’t care less about the future bruises as she adjusted to him inside of her.

Soon enough she started rocking, using Joe’s chest as leverage. One of Joe’s hands left her waist and went to her breast, squeezing it gently and rubbing his thumb over her nipple. 

The attention Jow paid to her breast caused Y/N to go faster. When she started bouncing, Joe let out a gasp and bucked his hips up in shock, going deeper than before. The two of them kept up that pace before Joe had enough and flipped them back around.

It was Y/N’s turn to gasp as she felt Joe start to pound into her. Putting her hands on his back, she dug her nails in, leaving red scratch marks in the process. Joe groaned again at the painful pleasure and leant down to kiss her again. 

The two of them moved in unison, absolutely lost in one another as they chased their highs. Joe could feel Y/N clenching and it brought him closer to the edge. Wanting to make sure she came first, Joe moved his hand down to thumb at her clit.

“C’mon sweetheart. Let go.” He encouraged, not sure how much longer he could last. With a loud curse, Y/N came, triggering his own orgasm. She captured Joe’s lips as he finished and the two of them collapsed together on the bed. 

“Good girl.” Joe cooed as he finally pulled out of her, hoping to sooth her whimper. Joe quickly moved to get the two of them cleaned up before he moved back to where she was lying. 

He climbed in bed with her and with one last peck the two of them drifted off to sleep, cuddled up.

Taglist:

@genxrocker

@elliotts-personal-property

@friccinfricks

@i-love-def-leppard

@vintagerocknrollgirl

[engie-ivy]

(Actual microfic this time @wolfstarmicrofic)

Waiter Remus and Restaurant Owner Sirius!

19th: Lemons

When Life Gives You... Cod

Remus is standing at the front desk going over the folder with reservations, tapping his pen on the paper.

“Lupin!” Benjy Fenwick walks up to him holding up two bottles of wine. “So, I’ve got an Italian Pinot Grigio, with a citrusy palate of limes, lemons, pears, white nectarines, and apples, always a nice combination with its faint honeyed notes and floral honeysuckled aromas. But on the other hand, I’ve got a Spanish Albariño, which has a lemon zest, but also a rich stone fruit flavour. Now, both have of course a brilliant acidity and a weighty mid-palate, and many appreciate Pinot Grigio’s bitter almond note, but there’s also much to say for the Albariño’s light aftertaste of green almonds and citrus pith. So, what do you think? The gentleman at table twelve wants to know which one will make the best pairing with his seafood risotto.”

Fenwick tilts his head and looks at Remus expectantly.

Remus blinks. It’s only Fenwick’s first day, and Remus likes to make it at least a week before new staff finds out their maître d’hôtel doesn’t know shite about fancy dining.

But Remus also knows his strengths and weaknesses. He shakes his head. “You should ask Sirius. He knows this stuff better than I do.”

Remus is the kind of person who can taste whether a wine is sweet or dry. Sirius is the kind of person who can taste in what year and in what exact month the grapes were harvested.

Fenwick looks at him questioningly.

“Storage room at the back,” Remus says, pointing over his shoulder. “Long dark hair, bright grey eyes, tall, broad-shouldered... You know what? There’s not gonna be a ton of people in the storage room. You’ll see.”

Remus goes to see the couple just entering to their table, and after the elderly lady has shown him photos of all her grandchildren, he returns to find Fenwick behind the bar pouring a glass of Albariño.

“Sirius managed to help you?”

Fenwick looks up and grins. “Yeah, nice guy. Really knows what he’s talking about. Very good-looking guy too.” His grin becomes more of a suggestive smile. “Say, do you know if he’s single?”

Remus fully turns to him and narrows his eyes. “Look, Fenwick. Since this is only your first day at Patmol & Cornedrue, let me give you some friendly advice, co-worker to co-worker. Do not try to hook up with the co-owner on your first day. It’ll look highly unprofessional, people will talk and before you know it, you’ll have a reputation.”

Fenwick’s cheeks flush, and he adverts his eyes, opening his mouth to reply, but stops when someone steps up behind Remus, placing a hand low on Remus’ lower back.

“Rem,” Sirius’ face is so close, his lips almost brush Remus’ ear. “Could you try to sell people on the cod tonight?”

“The cod? The cod truly isn’t that popular.”

“I know,” Sirius sighs. “But James seems to think cod is the best thing to have ever happened to humankind, and has ordered enough cod to feed the entire city.” He rolls his eyes.

Remus chuckles, leaning into Sirius a bit more. “I’ll see what I can do.”

Sirius presses a kiss to the corner of his mouth. “Thanks, babe. You’re the best.” He gives Remus a playful slap on the butt before taking off again.

Fenwick doesn’t say anything, just looks at Remus with a raised eyebrow.

Remus crosses his arms over his chest. “For your information, I did not hook up with him until at least my second day!”

[agentsinlove]

@captainsjack OKAY so thank you for giving me an excuse to share these unconnected snippets i have lol.

Ethan sleeps with Ilsa because he likes her, and he cares about her, and it seems like the right thing to do. She’s smart and beautiful, his equal in every conceivable way. She makes him laugh, he makes her smile, and their coupling seems inevitable. So after the showdown in Kashmir, once the dust had settled and Ethan had gained full faculty of his ribs again, he’d asked Ilsa out and made love to her after the last cup of dessert coffee had been drained. 

It had been soft and sweet until it had been hard and rough, and it’s the best sex Ethan’s had since Julia, if he’s being honest with himself. 

The morning after, they have breakfast in bed, and sex once more in the shower. Ilsa is perfect, and Ethan thinks that he’s in love. He wants more time to explore the idea, but the IMF knows that if he’s well enough to fuck, Ethan’s well enough to fight, and the team’s called together for a briefing with the new Secretary before being sent away on yet another impossible mission. 

“Call me when you get back,” Ilsa murmurs into his collar at the airport, and before Ethan can say anything in return, she’s gone like a ghost into the crowd. 

“First thing when I land,” he says into the empty space where Ilsa used to be. Then he shakes his head and makes his way towards his gate. 

He’s surprised, then, to see Benji sprawled out over three chairs. He has four devices plugged in to as many outlets, charging happily. 

“Ethan!” he says, shooting upright. His burner phone and his tablet clatter to the ground. “I didn’t know you’d be here.”

Ethan grins. “Same for you. It’s good to see you, Benji.” 

Benji stands the rest of the way and pulls Ethan into a hug. Ethan grunts at the slight pain that thrums through his chest, and Benji—taking the hint—eases up. 

“God, sorry! Forgot about your five broken ribs.”

“No so broken anymore, but definitely still a little tender,” Ethan replies. “You look good, too.”

Benji rubs at his throat. “Well, bruises heal faster than bones.”

“So,” Ethan says as his sits into the chair Benji graciously empties of tech bags for him. “Why the hell are you back in London?”

Benji shrugs. “It’s where I’m from, you know. I like to visit on the off days, when I can.” He pauses. “Should I bother asking what you’re doing here?” 

Ethan’s too old to blush, especially for something so benign as romance. “Ilsa has an apartment here.”

“Ah,” says Benji with a nod. “Of course. How is Ilsa?”

“Good,” Ethan says, his smile a mile wide. “Great, in fact. Enjoying her retirement.”

“So, you two are…?”

Ethan’s smile falters just a little. “We’re...you know. Sure.” 

It shouldn’t be a difficult question, he knows. And by the skeptical look on Benji’s face, he wasn’t expecting such a vague answer. But somehow it seems false for Ethan to say exactly what he and Ilsa are. Partners or lovers or significant others. They hadn’t talked about it all in their weeks together, but Ilsa had said to call and Ethan has been thinking himself in love. So then what, indeed, did that make them? 

I’m too old for this, Ethan thinks to himself. So he turns to Benji and says, “We’re happy.”

Benji smiles at that. “Hear, hear.”

Ethan settles further into his chair and looks around the half-filled gate. He shakes his head. “Interesting choice to have us fly commercial.”

Benji snorts, already back to tapping at his laptop. “Sloan reminding us of our place, no doubt.”

They sit in companionable silence, Benji on his tech and Ethan reading a book. He considers texting Ilsa, but stops himself before committing to the act. He’s not sure it’d be appreciated. He tries to stay focused on his book, but with Benji beside him typing away and humming some song under his breath, Ethan has a difficult time of it. 

He looks sideways at Benji, taking in the man’s profile. Benji looks older, it’s undeniable. His hair’s thinner, his face gaunter. The nature of the job has hit him harder than it’s hit Ethan, and it shows. Not that it matters, Ethan knows. Benji’s not usually the go-to for honeypot missions, but even if he were, he has plenty of other charms. Ethan knows them firsthand. 

“Something on my face?” Benji asks, eyes still on his screen.

Ethan starts. “No. Just zoning out.”

Benji finally turns to look at him, eyebrows raised. “If you say so.” He goes back to his screen. 

Ethan goes back to his book, but he’s not any more focused than he was before. It’s a blessing when the attendant at the front kiosk announces they’re about to board. At least it gives him something to do besides think. 

---

“Uh, Ethan,” Brandt’s voice clips over the coms. “Am I disturbing you?”

“No,” replies Ethan, curt. He sighs. “Just distracted today.”

“Well, fix it.”

Ethan rolls his eyes. He likes Brandt, really he does. But sometimes Brandt’s attitude is decidedly unwelcome. 

“I know how to do my job, Brandt.”

“Apparently not. The target’s just exited the building.”

“Shit,” Ethan mutters as he stands nonchalantly and throws down a ten dollar bill for his coffee. His own exit from the cafe is casual, though it’s the last word he’d use to describe how he feels. 

It all ends well when he catches the arms dealer mid-transaction two blocks down, but the fact remains: Ethan Hunt had fucked up a job because he was too busy thinking about Benji Dunn. 

“So,” Brandt says later as Ethan’s en route back to their temporary base. “What was that about.”

He doesn’t want to answer. It’s not any of Brandt’s business. But the two of them share a strange and inexplicable camaraderie, knit together by their complicated shared experience with Julia, and Ethan can’t quite keep himself from saying, “I can’t stop thinking about Benji blowing up. I’ve dreamed about it the last three nights. It’s the first thought I have when waking. It’s the last thing I see when I close my eyes before I sleep.” He pauses. “It’s disconcerting.”

Brandt is silent for a long time. When he finally does make a sound, it is only an ambivalent, “Huh.”

“Thanks, Will,” Ethan says, irritated. Then he yanks out his ear piece. 

An hour later, Brandt sends a text. 

Don’t think too hard about it. Your brain knows he matters to you, that’s all.

---

“What about Julia?”

Ethan frowns. “I love her and would die for her.”

“So then what about Ilsa?”

The frown deepens. “I love and would die for her, too.”

“So then what about me?”

Ethan stares at Benji, silently. Not because he doesn't care, but rather because—as he realizes with a sudden startling clarity—there are no words or series of words in any language available to him to adequately express exactly how he feels about Benji Dunn. 

“That’s about what I thought,” Benji says, apparently fed up with the way Ethan gapes at him. 

“No, no, no.” Ethan stutters out. “It’s not that I feel nothing. I just can’t think of any words…” he chuckles, despite himself. “I can’t think of any words big enough for how I feel about you.”

That draws Benji up short. “Ethan,” he says, expression unreadable, “are you saying you’re in love with me?”

The question lands like a blow, because Ethan hasn’t let himself get anywhere near that far when he thinks about how he feels about Benji. Where he’d pushed himself to believe he was in love with Ilsa, the idea of being in love with Benji feels absolutely terrifying. It’s too much, too real. It’s too precious. “I don’t think I know what means anymore,” he finally says. Then, “Are you in love with me?”

Benji’s expression shifts to something more openly wounded. “Ethan–”

Their phones chirp a split second apart, stopping the conversation short. 

“It’s work,” Benji says, swallowing. “We have to go.”

Ethan grabs his shoulder. “We have to finish this.”

Benji grabs at Ethan’s hand, as if to shove it away. But he stops. His grip softens. His hand rests gently over Ethan’s. “Ethan,” he says firmly, but not unkindly. “It’s work. You understand what that means.”

And Ethan does. He lets go of Benji’s shoulder and steps back, hand slipping out from under Benji’s palm. It’s work. They have to go. 

They can finish the conversation later.