#challenge cup 2020

[thewales-family]

The Princess of Wales June 2024 Photo Challenge

29. Favourite photo(s) of Catherine at sporting events.

[viper-motorsports]

The 2020 GT World Challenge America welcomes March at Texas’ Circuit of the Americas where the Racer’s Edge Motorsports’ N°93 Acura NSX GT3 inaugurated the sprint cup weekend with the overall win.

[figureskatingcostumes]

Lana Petranovic and Antonio Souza-Kordeiru skating to Writing's on the Wall at the 2020 Challenge Cup.

(Source: Martin & Dora)

[bronzeyslcve]

take charge - lucy bronze

pairing: lucy bronze x female reader

theme: smut

warnings: smut, minors dni, fingering, strap-on use, oral sex, praise kink, gag use, orgasm control, submissive lucy, pet names, use of y/n

summary: lucy has always been the dominant one out of the two of you throughout your entire five year relationship. when leah tears her acl, Sarina gives you the armband for the World Cup. Something about you in the armband turns lucy on and suddenly, she wants you to take control in the bedroom…

notes: based on this request, thank you sm anon! whilst writing this, half of it didn’t save so i had to rewrite most of the match part so sorry if it’s really bad <3

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It was heartbreaking watching Leah tear her ACL, the three letters confirming to you and all of your England teammates that your captain would miss the World Cup. You had no idea who Sarina would give the armband to, you thought Millie would receive it, or even Lucy, she deserved it more than most in your definite non-biased opinion. But Sarina had other plans. You were announced as the captain for the World Cup. Naturally, you were honoured to not only represent your country but to know hopefully captain them to a World Cup win, it was a childhood dream come true and Lucy couldn’t have been prouder of you.

So far, you had lead the team through the group stages, having won all three matches and you couldn’t be happier. You had noticed a slight change in Lucy ever since your first game against Haiti, but you put it down to just tournament nerves. Not knowing what was really going through her head. Having no clue that seeing you lead all the girls on the pitch, wearing that armband and being much more commanding and even more confident then you normally are, has been doing things to her.

All this week, you had been preparing for the game against Nigeria. You weren’t stupid, you knew it was going to be tough. They’re physical. Way more physical than the Lionesses but you were all ready. Or that’s what you thought. You played in the left-wing back position, which allowed you to cover the back and push up a little, which you loved doing. You had a good link up going with Georgia but Nigeria were quick to break it, quick to have you marked down and so you could do nothing, not really, except for telling your girls what to do.

Rarely, anger was never an emotion you dealt with on the pitch. You never got angry, not really, the last time you had it was the champions league final back in 2020 for an unjust foul committed on you that should’ve been a penalty, but it wasn’t awarded. However, watching you get awarded a penalty in the 31st minute and then having it taken off of you in the 34th just really pissed you off. You thought it should’ve stood. But it didn’t. When you’re angry on the pitch, you get a touch more aggressive, more loud and much more pissed if things don’t go your way. And that’s exactly what starts to happen.

The last minutes of the first half are basically just filled with you shouting at the girls, telling them what to do, putting challenges in on the Nigerian players, but still being careful to not get carded for them. When you come off for half time, Lucy is the first one over to you, putting her arm around your waist, whilst you two walk back through the tunnel. All of the fans knew about your relationship, I mean the pair of you never made any effort to hide it, meaning you could be more open with some of your affections.

“That should’ve been a fucking penalty,” you huff, as you walk towards the changing rooms, Lucy’s arm never leaving its position of being wrapped around your waist.

“I know baby, I know. Don’t threat about it though, we’ll be okay, we have you, you’re playing exceptional as always,” Lucy reassured you, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of your head, ignoring the feelings stirring inside of her from watching you get angry on the pitch. From wearing that armband. You have absolutely no clue how much you’re turning her on.

“Luce, I’ve hardly done anything,” you sigh softly as you make your way through the changing room and sit down at your cubby, which is conveniently next to your girlfriends.

“Yes you have. The passes that you have managed to make have been perfect, you’ve kept the left locked down and you’ve been commanding us really well.”

You smile softly at her and she presses a gentle peck to your lips before whispering against them lowly, “It’s very hot actually,” before she leaves to use the toilet to adjust herself.

Sarina gives her usual half time speech, telling you all on how to improve, then about ten minutes later you’re all back on the pitch. The knowledge that Lucy finds how you’re carrying yourself on the pitch hot, sends sparks flying through you. You weren’t thinking about that, not at all, but now, it’s in the back of your mind and you can’t help but want to impress her just a little more.

By the 83rd minute, most of the girls are tired. Nigeria’s physicality is just knackering the entire team. Sarina still hasn’t made any changes and it’s annoying you a little bit, your team are tired, substitutions need to be made. That’s why it doesn’t surprise you as much when frustrations get the better of Lauren James. Sure, her stamp on Alozie was completely unnecessary, but you understand why she did it. You’re frustrated too, however you have the maturity, which Lauren lacks and needs to work on, to time your tackles right, to not foul a player as said tackles you have committed have all been completely legal. Yes your frustrations did get the better of you in the 73rd minute leading to you getting a yellow card, but that was only for talking back to the ref, who you now had down as being a wanker, you didn’t like her. You knew the red card was coming to Lauren, a blind idiot would know, but that still doesn’t mean it didn’t hit the team hard. Being forced to drop to ten whilst you’re already struggling isn’t really an ideal situation.

The last eight minutes were utter hell for England. Scrappy, sloppy, whatever the commentators want to call it. You are extremely lucky to be going into extra time and not home. There were multiple shots from Nigeria that could’ve gone in but didn’t.

When the first fifteen minutes of extra time roll around after the short break, Nigeria’s tactics are slightly different. They try to test you, try to exploit the left side which they haven’t for the entire game. However you’re successful at keeping it locked down, not letting them get around you, which means they take back up their usual routine of going down the middle or the right.

In the 98th minute, a diagonal ball that’s just completely ignored by Millie could’ve easily been scored, it was a big chance for Nigeria. A huge one, it could’ve won them the game. But it didn’t. That still doesn’t mean that you didn’t have a few stern words with your vice captain. Millie understood and she was incredibly apologetic, knowing she fucked up, her words, not yours, she’s tired. All of the girls are, you couldn’t blame her that much, so you just remind her to stay alert and on her player, that’s all really.

You notice Nigeria decide to attack down the right, and Lucy isn’t doing all that well. She seems distracted by something. You’ve never shouted at Lucy on the pitch before, but you just have to, she has to lock that right side down, you can’t concede.

“Luce, c’mon snap out of it, stay on her!” you shout at your girlfriend and Lucy is quick to react. She improves her marking of Ajibade instantly and doesn’t let her past her, locking the right down just how you wanted. Yet again, you had no idea what you had just done to Lucy. The way you commanded her stirred something primal within her, but she was quick to snap out of it: remembering your earlier words, not wanting to disappoint you. It was a weird feeling for Lucy, but she was sure that if you asked her to do anything: she’d do it for you.

The first half of the extra time comes to an end and you have a little break, having a quick gel and then a word with the girls to just play their best and for now push through the pain and the tiredness for their county. For winning this game and for hopefully winning the World Champion title in a few weeks time.

The second half of extra time kicks off and it’s an improvement from the first, you have a second substitution now, so more fresh legs and Beth England is an excellent player.

In the back of your mind, you know that ever since Lauren’s red card you’ve had less possession and have not had a single shot. You pray to change that. You want one to end up in the back of that net, not really wanting to have to end up with going to penalties. But it seems like fate has other ideas. There was a couple of chances that England had in that last half, but unfortunately none could connect. So penalties it is.

A few minutes break is allocated for a breather to discuss who would take the penalties and in what order. It would be Georgia, then Beth, then Rachel, then you, then Chloe and then Alex for the first six, if all six are needed of course. Then the rest of the girls were also ordered, if more than five had to be taken. You had taken a few penalties in your time, all in shootouts, and you’d scored all of them. So you were pretty confident in yourself.

You stood next to Lucy at the end of the line, one arm wrapped around her waist as you watched Georgia set up to take her shot, hoping, praying it would go in. It didn’t, but you were still proud of the midfielder nevertheless she’d played a good game, and you had every faith in Mary in saving the one. Which she doesn’t even need to do because Oparanozie misses the target.

All of the England players scream when Beth slots it perfectly in the back of the next. 1-0 to England. When Alozie steps up to take Nigeria’s second, you hold your breath and when she skies it, you sigh in relief. Lucy quickly pressing a soft kiss to your head.

Rachel scores the next one, slamming it into the top left corner, however Ajibade also scores her one too. 2-1.

Usually when you take penalties, you’re not nervous. Not at all. But you can feel them tingling away around your body. You set the ball down and then close your eyes, quickly taking a moment to breathe, to block out all of the sound of the fans, and to focus on where you’re going to try and slot the ball. When you open your eyes, you focus on the opposite spot, to throw the keeper off, focusing on the bottom right.

You take in a breath and then strike the ball, to which it slots in beautifully in the top left hand corner. The keeper diving completely the wrong way. You run up and jump into Lucy’s arms, her pressing a soft kiss to your lips, which makes fans in the stands go wild. That’ll be in TikTok edits later, but you don’t care. After you, Ucheibe scores hers for Nigeria and then Chloe’s up.

You squeeze Lucy’s hand, if this goes in you’ve done it. You’re through to the World Cup quarter finals. And of course, Chloe Kelly slots it in and England are through. After an incredibly challenging, tiring game, you’d done it. England through to the next round, thank fuck. Nigeria put up a good fight, it was crystal clear they wanted it just as much as you did, the game truly could’ve gone either way.

After consolidating the Nigerian team, you get into the team huddle, standing in between Sarina and then Lucy on your other side, listening to the gaffer give her little post match speech before you have to give yours, a little bit of that aggressive, more dominant edge still clinging to your voice. As Lucy listens to you, she feels that urge cross her body again, the one that’s willing to do whatever you say. To be your good girl. It’s a weird feeling for her. Lucy has never, ever felt this way before. She’s not submissive. She never has been. But seeing you, like this, all commanding, angry and dominant it’s doing things to her and suddenly she craves for you to take charge of her, like you’ve done on the pitch.

After you’ve said what you’ve needed to, you look over at your girlfriend and notice that tiny glint in her eye which means she’s turned on, that makes you raise an eyebrow slightly, wondering how and why. But you just shrug it off, listening to what some of the other girls have to say about the game whilst Lucy’s eyes are fixed on the captains band sitting on your left arm.

A few hours later, you finally manage to get away from all of the girls, Lucy saying the pair of you need an early night. You make it up to your room, and then she’s on you, her lips immediately seeking out yours, kissing you passionately, but not rough like she normally is.

“Put your kit back on, especially the armband,” she breathes against your lips, causing you to furrow your eyebrows.

“You want me to put my dirty, sweaty kit back on? Seriously?” you ask, your tone incredulous, confused beyond belief.

“Mhm, please Y/n, put it on,” she begs, her eyes pleading with yours.

You look at her gone out. What the bloody hell is happening? Lucy had never ever begged you to do anything (unless it’s get her cake) in the entirety of your five year relationship. It takes you a few seconds to deliberate the idea in your head but with a soft sigh you nod and grab your bag that you brought up here earlier, just after the game before the dinner you’ve just had, to get it out of the way.

“Do I have to put my pads back on?” you question as you strip from the England gear you currently had on, getting back into your football kit from the match earlier.

“It’s up to you Y/n, you don’t have to if you don’t want to,” Lucy states softly as she watches you intently, her eyes glued to the armband that’s now sat back on your left bicep and she swears she feels her knees going weak.

You nod and decide against putting them back on, not actually needing them for whatever you’re about to do. The answer she gives you is not “very Lucy”, usually she would’ve told you exactly what she wants. For extra measure, you put your hair back up into the style of a rather neat bun, much neater than the ones Lucy does in her hair are. You look at yourself in the mirror quickly before glancing back at the brunette, something about seeing yourself in the armband has made that sense of pride and dominance return, exactly what Lucy wanted.

“This what you wanted hm Luce? Want to get me in my kit so I could take charge?” you had finally caught on to what she wanted, it just all clicked and fucking hell, taking charge in the bedroom, of Lucy is an incredibly hot thought.

“Please y/n, I’ll be a good girl, I promise, I need you,” she whines, her usual dominance having completely melted away. It’s almost like another woman is stood in front of you.

“Dirty girl, getting turned on by seeing me get all angry and aggressive on the pitch. I should just leave you here, wanting and not getting anything,” you hum before gently tucking a strand of hair behind her ears, a direct contrast to your words.

“No, please, don’t, I need you baby, I’m so desperate, please.”

God she sounds so so so pretty when she whines, when she begs. You’ve never heard it before, and you want to hear more of it, you’ll make sure Lucy does her fair share of begging before she gets anything from you.

“You sound so pretty when you beg Luce, what you desperate for hm? What do you want me to do?” you ask, fully aware that you’re being a tease, but you know she’ll do what you want.

“I want you to fuck me, please Y/n.”

A small groan slips past your lips at her admission, normally you’re the ones saying those words, begging her to have her way with you. Now it’s the other way around and you love it and of course, you’ll give her exactly what she wants, eventually.

Your lips find hers, kissing her rather hungrily before you start to trail your kisses down the column of her throat, occasionally dragging your teeth over her skin, making her shiver.

“Fuck baby, please stop teasing,” Lucy pleads, her head tilted back slightly, allowing you to have slightly better access to her neck.

“And why should I do that hm?” you question before connecting your lips again, the kiss all teeth and tongue, with you in full control. Your lips stay intact as you reach the edge of the bed, only breaking apart for a few seconds to push her down gently, before kissing her once more.

Lucy whimpers into the kiss, wanting so much more than she’s currently getting, needing you to push her over the edge and give her the orgasm she so desperately craves, that she so desperately needs.

Momentarily, you break the kiss to take off her top, and then her sports bra, carelessly throwing them over your shoulder. You ignore her boobs, for now, going back to roughly making out with her. She lets out another little whimper into your mouth a few seconds later, needing more.

“Is there something wrong Lucia?” you hum teasingly, using her full name which you know has an effect on her, knowing full damn well what she wants.

“I need more Y/n,” she mewls, now having taken to squeezing her thighs together to get a touch a friction.

When you see what she’s doing, you click your tongue in disapproval before then gently pull her legs apart, slotting yourself in between them.

“Oh really? Is what I’m doing not enough for you?”

“N-no, please, give me more.”

Puppy eyes was the last thing you’d expect to see from Lucy, but god they do look adorable. And you find yourself giving in, very slightly to what she wants. Your mouth finds her right boob, gently kissing over it before flickering your tongue over her nipple. After a few little flicks, you tug it between your teeth, then run your tongue over it, soothing the small amount of pain. Your hand finds her left one, kneading the flesh delicately ahead of your fingers twisting and lightly pulling at that nipple, whilst the other one gets taken properly into your mouth for you to suck on.

A mix between a moan and a whimper leaves your girlfriend’s throat and it sounds beautiful, like music to your ears. You keep up with what you’re doing for a while before pulling away and kissing down her chest, littering it with love bites, then you move onto trailing your tongue down her stomach to the waistband of her joggers. Quickly, you get them off of her, leaving her in just her boxers, a very noticeable dark wet patch on the front of the dark cotton.

“Fuck look at you, I’ve hardly touched you and you’re soaked. God if I’d have known if me being captain would make you this needy, I would’ve begged Sarina to have been captain for the Euros too.”

That makes Lucy whine again and squirm a little, wiggling her hips, trying to get you right where she needs you.

“Stop teasing me, please baby,” she whimpers once more, growing stupidly needy.

At first, her whines and her begging you sounded perfect, you loved them, but now, they are getting on your nerves very slightly, just like yours must do to her. Now you realise why she doesn’t like it when you’re whiny and are begging her insistently. Not when you have a plan in place of what you’re doing and she’s just being so goddamn impatient.

“No, stop fucking begging,” you practically growl, but she doesn’t listen, whining a little more and bucking her hips up to almost remind you where you’re so desperately needed.

“Please baby, I need you, it aches, fuck me, please.”

You raise your eyebrows at her so blatantly ignoring you, your hand finds your captains band on your arm and you tug it down before forcing it into Lucy’s mouth.

“There. Now we’re all nice and quiet hm?”

Lucy moans around the gag of your armband and it’s the most beautiful sound you’ve ever heard, you just hope that you get to hear it again. Sure enough, when your mouth finds her inner thighs after pulling down her boxers, that same noise spills from her throat.

A small smirk tugs onto your lips as you kiss, lick, nip and suck at Lucy’s inner thighs, not darling to inch just that little higher and run your tongue through her soaked folds. Admittedly, you were savouring every second of this, you’d never ever taken her like this. She’s always been sat on your face and there was no time to tease her, so you’d never properly gone down on Lucy.

When you finally do decide to give her a little of what she needs, languidly swiping your tongue over her drenched slit, avoiding her clit like the plague, the prettiest little sound slips around the gag of your armband, something like a moan mixed with a small cry.

You go back to then sucking at her inner thighs, just wanting to tease her a touch more before you really give her what she wants. Lucy’s frustrated, but she doesn’t vocalise it, not whimpering around the gag, nor does she show it, her hips remain planted on the bed, hands screwed up in the duvet: not daring to touch you without your permission. For her your dominance was exhilarating, your armband in her mouth silencing her was what she thought was the hottest thing ever and the sheer confidence you have in taking charge does in fact have her incredibly needy; evidenced in just how soaking wet she is.

After a few seconds, when you see no physical reaction from Lucy to your teasing, you smile and lean up to press a soft kiss to her cheek.

“Such a good girl for me hm? Don’t worry sweetheart, I’ll give you what you want,” you coo before dipping your head back down towards her dripping sex.

Those two words, “good girl” have Lucy literally melting in a puddle for you. Involuntarily, her pussy clenches around nothing, clit throbs with need and the moan she lets out - which is slightly muffled - is perfect.

At the revelation that Lucy has a bit of a praise kink going on, you smirk, you’re going to use that to your advantage. As your tongue once again swipes over her slit, your eyes remain locked onto your girlfriends, watching how within seconds of your ministrations, they roll into the back of her head.

“My good girl,” you husk against her cunt before your lips find her clit, sucking just how she likes as one of your fingers teases around her entrance, not dipping inside just yet.

The possession mixed with the praise has Lucy letting out another moan around her gag and as soon as your lips finally find her clit, a muffled cry tumbles from her lips.

You continue with sucking her clit, pushing just one finger inside of her, groaning into her pussy as you feel just how tight she is, how warm she is. When she’s in charge, Lucy rarely lets you finger her, she always forces you to use your mouth and nothing else, it’s because she’s never been much of a receiver. Always giving. But when she’s does want something, the quickest way to get her off is to eat her out, so she’d make you do just that: so she could get back to fucking you quicker.

Slowly, you pump your finger in and out of her, a second one soon joining the first, feeling her walls stretch a little to accommodate it. You can already feel Lucy getting closer to the edge, so you slow down even more. You want to draw this out. You want to prep her to take the strap.

“Doing so well for me sweetheart, think you can take a third for me?” you ask her softly, pulling your mouth away from her clit for just a few seconds, still fucking her with your fingers.

Eagerly, Lucy nods. She wants to take it, to be your good girl, she knows she can take them too. You smile at her and then once again dip your head back down. Your tongue swirls over her clit gently, before you go back to sucking the sensitive nub.

A third finger slowly joins the second two, and your curl up all three of them, causing the right back to let out another muffled cry around the gag. The stretch for her is perfect, the feeling of taking three of your fingers is sensational, it feels like heaven. With each thrust of your fingers, Lucy can feel them hitting her g-spot, which makes her face contort with pleasure.

You speed up your fingers and your sucking, determined to push her over the edge, wanting to make her cum hard. Lucy’s knuckles turn white with how hard she’s now clenching the duvet, her back arching slightly, eyes now squeezed shut, stars dancing behind her eyelids. With what sounds to be like a moan of your name around your armband, she comes undone, harder than she ever has done. Just like you wanted.

Your movements slow, gently rocking your fingers inside of her, so she can ride out her orgasm. You press a gentle kiss to her clit before pulling your mouth of her, so you can murmur gentle reassurances to her as she comes back down from her high.

“You did so good for me sweetheart, such a good girl,” you state softly whilst gently easing your fingers out of her, which you clean by sucking on them.

The sight of you sucking and moaning around your fingers, coated in her cum, has Lucy getting worked back up again, which you obviously notice.

“You need more hm?” you tease as you ease your armband out of her mouth, pulling it back on to your left arm.

“Please, w..want you to use the strap,” she admits breathlessly, her voice slightly hoarse from your armband being in her mouth for so long, her eyes watching as you put it back where it belongs: slightly wet from her mouth.

“Hmm, do you think you deserve it?”

Lucy simply nods as she watches you pull down your shorts, the underwear you’re wearing are very damp, a clear sign of your own arousal.

“Me too, you’ve been my good girl after all,” you hum, pressing your lips to hers, giving her a soft peck.

When you’re at home, the strap usually resides in the bedside table, and Lucy always wears it. When you’re on camp, you have it in a bag that sits in the wardrobe with all of your other toys. You give Lucy a few more pecks, before getting off the bed and walking over to the wardrobe. The doors are slightly ajar on it as you must’ve forgotten to close it after grabbing your kit bag from it earlier.

You find the bag which is sat in the back of the cupboard and pull it forward, undoing the zipper on it. There’s not many toys in there, you have way more at home, but neither you nor Lucy were going to weigh your suitcases down when you flew out here, to Australia, with sex toys.

The harness gets pulled out of the bag and then so does a seven inch sleek black dildo that you’ll clip into the front of it. You make your way back over to the bed, the two items in hand and then nestle yourself in between Lucy’s spread legs.

You set the things down onto the mattress and then remove your shirt, tossing it somewhere in the room, leaving you in just your sports bra and underwear.

From the countless times of watching Lucy put the strap on, you know exactly what you’re doing. Your underwear come off and then you attach the harness to your hips. The brunettes eyes beneath you are fixated on your own soaked cunt, which you’re not even thinking about, your full focus is on giving your girl exactly what she needs.

“See something you like sweetheart?” you taunt whilst clipping the dildo into the slot at the front.

“Mhm, you’re so beautiful Y/n. Can you take your bra off, please?” she asks softly, her hand coming to paw at the material gently.

You smile and gently take her hand, kissing her knuckles before letting it go and removing the final item of clothing, which also makes Lucy smile.

“That what you wanted Luce?”

“Yes, y..you look perfect, I love you,”

“I love you too sweetheart.”

You gently kiss her forehead, then her cheek, the tip of her nose and then her lips. You kiss her for a few seconds, it’s gentle, unlike your earlier, more rougher, demanding ones.

After those few seconds, you pull away and then adjust your positioning, running the head of the dildo through her folds, which causes her to gasp.

“Fuck baby, please, n-need you,” she whimpers as you line the tip up with her entrance.

“Shh sweetheart, I know, you’re being so good for me,” you croon before you slowly push the strap into her, your eyes fixated on her pussy swallowing it, the sight getting engraved into the back of your mind.

In all honesty, you thought Lucy had never looked more beautiful. Her eyes almost closed, lips parted, one hand gripping the sheets, the other now gripping onto one of yours, her hair sprawled out against the pillows, her face contorted in sheer pleasure, her abs slightly tensed, the sounds escaping her and the way her pussy looks swallowing your goddamn strap. This was something you were going to remember for a long, long time.

“Shit Luce, you’re so tight, doing so well for me,” you grunt as you start to slowly thrust in and out of her, your eyes moving up to her face, to watch her reaction to your movements.

The praise has her letting out a small whimper, which turns into a loud moan as you start move. Her hand that’s in yours grips it a little tighter, for her it feels weird, she feels so full, stretched so beautifully, she could definitely get used to the feeling.

“F..fuck, feels so good Y/n. Harder, please,” she begs softly and it’s impossible to not give her what she wants, after all she has been good for you.

You increase the force of your thrusts, little grunts occasionally tumbling from your lips, like the ones that you make when lifting in the gym and Lucy fucking loves it. She loves hearing the little noises you’re making, knowing you’re enjoying it just as much as she is.

“Taking me so well, my good fucking girl.”

Lucy’s eyes roll into the back of her head, the praise making everything so much better for her, she can feel herself getting closer, her small moans getting louder, her walls gripping your strap tighter.

“Baby I’m close, p..please don’t stop,” Lucy pleads, her legs shaking slightly from the force off the orgasm that’s she’s so close to letting go of.

“Not yet sweetheart, hold it for me,” you demand softly whilst pushing your strap deeper into her, your hips snapping slightly faster. Selfishly, you don’t want her to cum yet, for it to all be over. You don’t know if you’ll ever get to experience this again, to watch Lucy take your strap, to be the one on top, the one in charge. So you just want to draw this out for as long as possible and you know Lucy will listen to you.

Lucy doesn’t complain, she just simply nods, opening her eyes properly to look at you. To her you look perfect. Your eyes are completely darkened with lust, watching her, your hairs up in that damn bun, some of the strands coming loose and sticking to your forehead and your captains armband is sat snug around your left bicep: you look like heaven to her.

“Look at you, look so fucking pretty taking my cock,” you practically growl, your eyes now back to watching her pussy take the toy as you pound into her faster, which makes her moans even louder.

“Y/n, please c..can’t hold it any longer,” she whines, her hand tightening in yours to ground herself as she knows her orgasm is going to be intense. She can feel it.

“Fuck, cum for me sweetheart, cum all over my cock.”

With a sudden cry, Lucy comes undone, her legs shaking slightly from its intensity, her eyes now rolled back, her back arched a little and her face contorted up in sheer bliss. You don’t know where to look, her face, her cunt, at the way her abs tense. You keep your eyes on her face, watching how it twists with pleasure, your hips slow down, still gently rocking the toy in and out of her, allowing her to ride out her high.

“That’s it sweetheart, such a good girl,” you hum, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead before ever so gently easing the toy out of her sensitive pussy, revelling in the way it grips your strap harder, as if it doesn’t want you to leave.

Once the toy is out, you quickly undo the harness and then toss it off, throwing it onto the floor. You then lay down next to your girlfriend, wrapping your arms around her gently, allowing her to cuddle into you, whilst you pressed gentle kisses all over her face.

“T..that was incredible,” Lucy managed to exclaim a few minutes later after coming down from the most incredible high she’d ever experienced.

“It was, my god you looked so beautiful Luce, who knew seeing me be captain could get you so worked up,” you couldn’t help but tease, watching as she responds by playfully rolling her eyes.

“Hm, I don’t know what can over me, it was just like hot, watching you take charge of everyone on the pitch y’know?”

“Mhm, I think I’ll beg Sarina to let me be captain forever now if that happens every time after we have a game.”

Lucy swats your shoulder playfully, her eyes watching as you pull off the armband and toss it onto the nightstand.

“No, I couldn’t focus on the game at points because all I was focused on was you baby,” she points out with a small smile, her lips gently pressing a kiss to your cheek.

“Oh really?” you ask, rhetorically, as you think back to the game earlier that day which feels like it was years ago. “That actually makes a lot of sense, I knew something else was going on earlier, it has been the entire tournament,”

“Yep, ever since the Haiti game. I’ve been wanting you to take charge for a little while now,”

“Well I definitely want to do it again,” you suggest with a little smirk crossing your lips, making her chuckle.

“Ditto baby.”

With that, it didn’t take the pair of you that long to fall asleep, all tangled up in each other, your bodies exhausted from the match you played in earlier and then the incredible sex you’d just had. As you slept, there was one thing you both knew for certain: you’d been taking charge much more often.

[httpswritings]

We've created an artist — Alexia Putellas x Jenni Hermoso x Child! Reader

Warning: angst, abandonment issues, hitting. avoid reading if you feel uneasy about these topics.

Word count: 1386.

Summary: Alexia and Jenni had a daughter back in 2020. They split up in 2022 and Alexia started dating Olga the same year. In this fic, Jenni and Alexia do not end up together but they do face some challenges coparenting.

A/N: I almost sobbed writing this lol. It's pretty dramatic but it's worth it. 🫶

Through 2023, Alexia began introducing Olga to you. She started to make some comments about “her friend Olga” so you could get used to her name. Then, she gave you some gifts her friend Olga gave you; they made you really excited, as they usually were toys, fluffed animals, cute pieces of clothing from your favorite cartoons, etc. As you got used to Olga being in your mother's life, she eventually introduced her to you.

It went well. Olga was caring, all smiles for you. She was a bit timid, which you thought was wonderful, as you found her to be a delicate and loving woman. Alexia ended up telling you Olga was, in fact, her girlfriend and not her friend. It didn't change anything between the three of you, as your mother, Jenni, was also around, and everything carried on well.

While you were going through the life challenges of a two-year-old, your mother, Jenni, had to explain to you that she was going to be away for some time. It was not an easy, but necessary, decision for her and her football career. Even if you did not understand it, the psychologist your mothers talked to said it was crucial for your well-being to explain to you why Jenni was going to be away for some time, even if it sounded odd. She kept in contact with you through video calls, calls, and gifts she kept sending you and visiting you in Barcelona anytime she could, giving up any opportunity to visit her family in Madrid as you were her priority. The reason she didn't bring you to Mexico is because she didn't have any family there, while Alexia had her whole family near her. You still got to spend some time in Mexico when you visited Jenni with her family, especially your uncle, Jenni's brother, who you always had such a great time with. Because of these trips to Mexico, being far away from your mother, Jenni, wasn't that tough. Of course you missed her, but you saw her every month for a few days.

The World Cup came, and it was the best moment of your life. You got to spend about three months with both of your mothers and their teammates, especially the one who was closer to them. You celebrated your third birthday during your stay in New Zealand, as you were born in July.

September arrived. You started kindergarten when you were already three years old. You had a great start, coming home amused by how much fun you had at school each day. Alexia was the one who picked you up from school most days, but some of them you were greeted by Alexia's family, Olga, or Jenni's family when they came to visit. 

It took you almost a month before you started having an issue with Jenni not being able to pick you up from school. Your class was quite diverse, with different kinds of families: with one parent; with two mothers or fathers; with one mother and one father. But you had two mothers in your life; you wanted one of them to pick you up from school, just like you noticed some of your classmates were.

“Where can I go back to Mexico to see Mami?" you asked Alexia as she was picking you up from school. “Where's the «Hello, Mamà»?" she said as she tried to avoid the question. “Hello, Mamà. When am I seeing Mami again?” Alexia smiled at your innocence. “Soon, baby, soon.” You did not keep asking her about it, as you noticed tears threatening to escape your eyes. But that didn't imply that you were taking Jenni's absence well. The videocalls with Jenni kept getting quicker, as you couldn't bear seeing her through the phone for too long.

“What's up to her, Ale? Is everything alright?" Jenni asked one afternoon, when you didn't even spend one minute talking to her. Alexia tried to hold you but snapped back at her, “Leave me; I want to leave.” Afterwards, you went to your room to play with some toys.

Some weeks later, Alexia told you it was time to talk to Jenni, but you refused. “I don't want to talk with her.” “What do you mean you don't want to? Mami is waiting for you, baby. Did something happen?” “No. I'm not talking to her or to you."

Alexia sighed. She was usually calm when it came to you. Whenever something happened with you, she would sit with you and let you express yourself, even if that implied crying out of frustration because you couldn't go to the park. Something not a big deal to her but a huge deal for you at your age.

“What do you need, my love?” She kept asking you questions with a delicate tone. Olga got nearer and caressed your cheek, to which you responded by smiling. Alexia was dealing with some discomfort in her knee, which had her very worried. Still, she managed to keep calm and try to understand you. But you kept quiet. Worryingly quiet. Your mind felt so loud inside that you noticed your sight getting blurry. Images of Jenni came to your mind in a rush. You loved Alexia, but you needed Jenni's gentle and motherly touch.

Alexia began to lose her patience, and you shouted, “I need Mami. I want Mami. I want her now.” Alexia tried to calm you down, but you refused to let her touch you. “No! Don't touch me. I want Mami, not you”, as you got out of her embrace, slightly hitting her on the arm, running to your room, and shutting the door harshly.

It was the first time you did something like that. Getting out of Alexia's embrace the way you did wasn't a big deal for you, but Alexia felt like the whole world was collapsing. Olga rushed to hug Alexia, but her mind was repeating the moment of you hitting her. “Ale, baby, come back, please. Look at me.” Alexia's eyes had no expression overall. "Alexia." Olga said as she made Alexia look at her.

“She doesn't want me, Olga.”

“Yes, she does. Alexia, Y/N adores you. She just needs Jenni here too. She knows she has you here, in the room next to hers, at home. She's going to see you when she wakes up. She's going to have lunch with you. She plays with you at home. You both go on walks. She knows it, baby. But she also knows she can't have all that with Jenni. She doesn't have her other mother with her.” Alexia nodded, trying to understand Olga. “Y/N probably isn't aware of what she has just done. It was her way of expressing it. Later, you can explain to her why she can't hit people, even if she's sad, but right now, let her have some time to go through her anger and calm yourself down before talking to her.” Alexia finally hugged Olga back. “Thank you, Olga. Thank you.”

Half an hour later, Alexia came into your room, finding it empty. She freaked out as she called out your name, but you didn't respond. She went to her room. Still, you were nowhere to be found. “Alexia, she's here." Olga said. Alexia rushed to an empty room in the house, used for nothing in particular. You were sleeping on the floor with a drawing next to you. As Alexia got closer to you, Olga got out of the room to leave you both some time alone. In the paper, you drew yourself, with Alexia and Olga to your left. Olga was dressed with a timid smile and in a dress. Alexia was dressed the same way as you, in a fairy costume. This was enough to make Alexia cry. In the drawing, you also drew Jenni next to your right. She was drawn with a huge smile, emphasizing her dark black hair.

Alexia took a photo of your drawing and sent it to Jenni. “Look, we've created an artist. A very talented girl, Jenni. Talk to you in a couple of hours, as I know it's still pretty early there in México.” Then, she took a photo of you sleeping on the floor and sent it to her too. “Even geniuses need some sleep 😴 ”

[jae10velies]

ultimate nct content recs list ᯓ☆

for new fans, ogs, and anyone in between !! disclaimer: the content in this list may include ex-members that left the group on both good and bad notes. please refrain from watching those videos if they make you uncomfortable! ⭐️ = personal favorite

nct u

any of the nct life series ⭐️

nctmentary ⭐️

nct 2018 happy halloween eve⭐️

nct try thai snacks

nct 2018, 2020 relay cam ⭐️

nct world 2.0 ⭐️

freaky handshake ⭐️

work it force guardian

the entirety of the nct show ⭐️

it's awkward but it's okay ⭐️

mark awards

a cup of coffee pt. 2 ⭐️

johnny's communication center ⭐️

nct nation: to the world ⭐️

muk2u ⭐️

nct 127

hit the states ⭐️

bklyn boys ⭐️

nct 127 x just dance find the best dancer ⭐️

the next neo model

ncit house

stick together ⭐️

johnny marky's lemonade stand

analog trip

vampire house: the favorite

my trip mates

fill it up

to us ⭐️

127 planning advertising agency ⭐️

olá, ¡hola! ⭐️

urichil sauna ⭐️

the lost boys ⭐️

fact checkmate

home together ⭐️

127 vibe ⭐️

taeyong enlistment sendoff

127 day live 2025 ⭐️

nct dream

chenji's this and that ⭐️

rooftop fight ⭐️

cafe 7dream

7llin' in the dream ⭐️

hotel the dream

7llin' in our youth

finding 7-ujeong ⭐️

dream x dream

u-jeong dice

a holiday dream ⭐️

wayv

dream plan ⭐️

poTENtial up! in thailand

winformation

winwin princess birthday party ⭐️

2020 wayv (mini) awards

all seasons of home with wayv ⭐️

wayvision ⭐️

ten x yangyang enjoy the challenge (etc) ⭐️

the lonely master chef xiao ⭐️

kun's cloud

ten's quarantine vlogs ⭐️

(un)official cantonese class with teacher hendery ⭐️

ten and winwin badminton match

the pilot test

ten in china vlogs

the summer talk ⭐️

a trip to thailand

the phantom thief ⭐️

wayv tour box

the abandoned school ⭐️

ten's bubble bubble

wayv in haidilao ⭐️

case of the missing chief director ⭐️

nct wish

nct lastart ⭐️

wish bakery

we go! we fly!

misc

superm mtopia ⭐️

superm as we wish

nopogy ⭐️

[icedbatik]

I blame the off-season ...

for this one flying under the radar.

Crosby Reflects on Bringing the Stanley Cup to Oakmont

ByMichelle Crechiolo Penguins Team Reporter June 13, 2025

Photo Credit: Golfweek - USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

After the Penguins played the Bruins back in April, Sidney Crosby was able to catch the end of the Masters Tournament, watching Rory McIlroy complete golf’s Grand Slam in a sudden-death playoff.

“That was really cool. I mean, the way that he had to regroup and gather himself after being that close to having it after all these years, it couldn’t have been easy to refocus the way he did,” Crosby said.

“Especially with how it happened, and just all the anticipation. He’s such a big figure in golf and everybody wanted to see that moment. For it not to happen right on 18 there and to play a playoff, showed a lot of guts by him. Just a great example. And to be a champion, that's tough to get to sometimes, so that’s pretty awesome to see.”

Now, McIlroy - who is involved with Fenway Sports Group as the face of TGL's Boston Common Golf - is in western Pennsylvania to compete in the 2025 U.S. Open. The event has returned to Oakmont Country Club for the first time since 2016.

That year, Crosby and his teammates brought the Stanley Cup to the course, just days after leading the franchise to its fourth championship in franchise history. Reflecting back, the first thing that came to mind was the weather. “It was really rainy,” Crosby said.

While that made for less-than-ideal golfing conditions, it worked out well in terms of showing off the Stanley Cup. Some of the Penguins brought it into the clubhouse during a rain delay, with golfers posing for pictures.

There’s actually a fantastic shot from Swedish golfer David Lingmerth that features a photobomb from Bryson DeChambeau, then just 22 years old and improving his world ranking to 148th after placing 15th.

Now, DeChambeau is the defending U.S. Open champion, a major he’s won twice (also in 2020), and ranks 10th in the world. He crossed paths with Crosby at The Match golf challenge in Big Sky, Montana in the summer of 2021.

“Just seeing him drive a golf ball was impressive enough, but I met him quick, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to see what those guys do close up,” Crosby said. “He’s a great guy, and he’s got a huge following with that YouTube stuff that he does now. It’s pretty neat that he’s doing that. Gives fans a great look at how he practices and just his personality and all that stuff. It’s pretty cool.”

While DeChambeau, Rickie Fowler and others were inside with the American-born Penguins like Phil Kessel and Nick Bonino, Crosby was out on the putting green with some other teammates. He had to laugh when thinking about one of his other memories that sticks out from the day.

“I remember we were rolling putts at the putting green, and someone kicked a beer over and spilled beer on the putting green. I was like, we should not be here doing this, you know?” Crosby grinned. “I remember just being mortified that this is the U.S. Open and guys are spilling beers on the practice green.”

Considering they were still in celebration mode from their recent victory, the group got a pass. Once the rain delay ended, watching a group that featured 2015 Open Championship winner Zach Johnson had Crosby marveling.

“They got a warning for pace of play, which is really uncommon. But I think they were trying to get a lot of people in because of the rain delay. I've never seen professional golfers play that quick,” Crosby said. “So, whatever they were told, they took it serious. It was a major, so to see someone just tee it up, no practice swings, was so rare.”

Crosby did get to play Oakmont himself after the tournament ended, something his teammate Erik Karlsson did just before this one began.

“It was pretty cool just to be out in those conditions. It’s beautiful. It’s nice that they’re hosting it again,” Crosby said.

Inclement weather has been somewhat of a tradition whenever Crosby has been on a course with professional golfers. During the 2013 work stoppage, Crosby got the chance to play with Colt Knost, a Tour pro for nearly a decade, in Dallas.

“It was one of the worst winds I’ve ever played in, and he shot minus-9. It was so impressive. He put on a clinic. He was a great guy,” Crosby said of the now-retired Knost, who has moved into broadcasting and hosts a podcast called Subpar.

“Just one of those things where I didn't ever think growing up that I would ever have the opportunity to play golf with a professional golfer.”

Thanks to Michele for this.

[trulyhblue]

Home Away From Home

Lauren Hemp x Aussie! Reader

Warnings: fluff, but awkward.

A/N — I know Caroline Weir scored the two goals in the Man City game that I talk about, but I've changed it a bit :)

Masterlist

______________________

Growing up in Australia was among the greatest privileges you had as a child.

Even in the midst of your career — a job you've dreamed of since you were little — your home soil was indescribable; nothing could beat the familiarity of home.

When the 2023 World Cup was announced to take place in Australia, you were feeling the effects of homesickness after six long months in Europe. You were signed by Manchester City at Nineteen, playing a critical midfield position after being a regular sub for your old club back in Australia. Your parents were sceptical of you leaving so early to such a big club. In no way were you prepared to face the challenges of adulthood as a whole other country, on the opposite side of the Earth.

You had only been playing for the Matildas for a couple of months when you were first signed to City, and it wasn't until the following year when your fellow Aussie teammates Alanna, and eventually Hayley and Mary, that you had the comfort of home to nurture you during rough patches.

Your family was your biggest supporter. Growing up, they sacrificed everything to meet the needs of their football journey. Your parents would leave early from work early to take you to training and surrender endless personal endeavours so that you could prosper in your dreams of going pro. You were very grateful for all that they had done, and as a result, their sacrifices became your motivation to be the best you could possibly be. You lived and breathed football. Everything revolved around football.

But when you moved to City, you found yourself stuck in a trance by a certain English Blonde.

For the most part, you kept to yourself at training. You didn't want to cause any trouble, and it seemed that most of the girls knew each other from youth squads, prior teams, or roommates at National Camps. You struggled to find your place in the squad at first. Being a relatively young team, you had lots of girls around your age, willing to be your friend, but the absence of home and lack of connection to the United Kingdom combined to make your personality shrink under a dismissive persona.

When Alanna joined City, you offered your apartment to her, having come from North London beforehand. Over the next months, you found comfort in the familiar Aussie accent, finding solace in the sliver of home you felt so distant to.

You still remained shy at training, trying hard and pushing out of your comfort zone every time someone had a conversation with you. Alanna found it hard to believe how introverted you were, having seen your confidence shine at Matilda’s Camps, and the Manchester Girls couldn't believe their ears when Alanna told them about how you were at home.

When Hayley came, you were smiling more. It wasn't that you weren't happy at City before the Australian girls arrived. You were thriving. In the 2020/21 season, you were dubbed as Young Player of The Year and had four ‘Player Of The Match’ awards under your belt. You worked extremely hard to make the starting eleven regularly, and people would often compliment your subtle but impressionable skills on the field. You weren't fast, but you were technical. You thought of the play that hadn't happened yet, shaping the game with unexpected yet calculated crosses. For two years, you had the second most assists in the WSL, merely missing Beth Mead.

In all honesty, the effects of having the reminder of home did help to boost your performance not only on the pitch but behind the scenes as well.

You can remember tapping your hands against the rim of your cubby, your home kit baggy on your figure. It was a very important game today — the final of the FA Women’s League Cup — against reigning champions Chelsea. You were starting, and your family had flown over to watch.

Your nerves upon walking out were tremendous. This was your first time starting in a final in the WSL. You don't remember a time you felt your hands shake this much. Alanna and Hayley were preparing for the match on either side of you, their faces impassive when both teams lined up in the tunnel of Cherry Rose Records Stadium.

Your heart was thumping out of your chest, palms sweating as you took your spot on the field.

When the whistle blew, you tuned everything out.

A powerful shot from Sam Kerr left Chelsea in the lead halfway through the first half. You tried hard to maneuver your way through the likes of Charles and Ingle, passing to Georgia and Keira as you struggled to pass Chelsea’s defence. Lucy was given a yellow which heightened the tension reeling in the stands. You buried the apprehensive bile rising in your stomach when the halftime whistle blew, signalling everyone to rush back to the changing rooms.

You placed your head in your hands, taking slow, desperate sips of your water bottle as you listened to the pep talks from all the players. Gareth Taylor, your manager, was shouting encouragement from across the room, staring into each and every one of your eyes, assuring the team that they could make a comeback.

“I want you to want this.” He said, circling the room with so much fervour that the room felt warmer. “I want to see the determination in your eyes. I want to see it in the tackles, the plays, the kicks, everything. The opportunities you making are good, they just need more precision.”

It was almost the start of the second half when Gareth asked for you, leading you over to the other side of the changing rooms, towards the shorter figure of one of your teammates.

Lauren looked just as nervous as you, but you hoped that you his your nerves a little better than her. Her blonde hair was held up in a pony, and small wisps of baby hairs framed her face after being exempted from the wind. She was a year older than you but has been in Manchester since 2018. Other than the odd, unusual sentence or two, neither of you had properly interacted.

Lauren looked up at you, her beady eyes locking with yours as she licked her lips, exchanging glances with the floor and you, awaiting the purpose of the conversation.

“I want you two to work together this half.” Your Manager urged. Both you and Lauren looked at him in surprise. He must've caught on since he held his hands up. “I know we haven't practised much between the two of you, I know. But Y/N, your crosses over the head of Chelsea defenders will inevitably shape up some opportunities for Hempo. Lauren, you know what to do when something comes up. I believe that truly, alright? Do you understand?”

You were still mulling over Gareth’s words when the whistle blew for the second half, but you felt an uncertain pair of eyes look out for where you kicked the ball. The surveillance of the English forward did not irk you. In fact, it pushed you to do as you were told.

It was two minutes in when an opportunity arose. You were given the ball by Alanna, who had pelted it away after a scary interaction with her and Kerr.

Gareth’s words played in your head, taunting you as the blonde’s eyes watched your actions intently. You were hesitant to do as he said. This was the one game your parents were here to see. Never once had they been to Europe, having not had the money to be able to fund both your football and fancy holidays overseas. You wanted to make them proud. You didn't want to risk such an important opportunity for it to go out or concede and let your team down.

You found Georgia and kicked it by her. She followed it up the middle of the field, passing it to one of your forwards, hand up in celebration when it went past the Goalie.

But for some reason, you couldn't find it in you to celebrate. You refused to meet the eyes of Lauren, who was no doubt throwing you a disappointed glance. You could feel the betrayal radiating in violent waves. You ran back to your starting position without a peep, determined to shake the guilt with another chance. You needed to win this game. You’d do whatever it took to do so.

Another goal from Ellen White led your team one in front, but it gave no comfort whatsoever in a game like this. If anything, it put the stakes higher. You hated penalties, the feeling of dread and anxiety filling you everything you watched each player attempt to concede. Even more so, you hated taking penalties. The possibility of that happening was enough to motivate you even more.

Guro Reiten was subbed off for Lauren James. A fresh pair of legs was dangerous coming up to the seventieth minute.

Chelsea was drawing closer and closer to equalizing with your second goal, causing an uprise in the tension between both the teams and the people watching. You grew more angsty when one of their attempts hit the crossbar, but when it landed near Keira’s feet, being shot past to where you stood, you knew this was now or never.

You sprinted down the wing with Georgia by your side, but you were only focused on the blonde in front of you.

“Here! Here!” Georgia screamed, holding out her hand to signal to you that she was ready. You contemplated it. There had been many times when Georgia had done that, and you had crossed the ball to her, and she had easily swished it past the goalie. You never doubted Georgia for a second, and you definitely knew she would've been able to shoot from where she was — she was clearly onside. But the Chelsea defenders had studied your gameplay back to front, and the same old cross to Georgia was something they had trained for — something you had trained for.

Something clicked in your mind when you met Lauren’s eyes. Something ignited inside of you. She must've felt it too, because she didn't even reach her hand up to signal towards you.

You both just knew what was happening. And that it would work. It had to work.

Without much thought, you kicked the ball to your right, watching as Chelsea gaped in alarm at the unsuspected pass and turn to and from Lauren.

You held your breath, stationery at the sight of Lauren’s risky attempts. She found a steady pace along the sideline stepping past Jess Carter, keeping her back turned to the goal. She used the back of her heel to trick both Carter and Berger. She had scored. Manchester City were winning 3-1.

You were the first to scream, a massive smile on your face as you ran towards Lauren, who spun to find you amidst the swarm of Chelsea players.

The two of you ran into each other with so much force that you both toppled to the ground, rolling around as the rest of your team piled on top of you.

The girls were screaming, you could hear the distant cheers of people in the stands. You heard Lauren’s exhausted huffs as you shovelled your head into her neck. Neither of you said anything. You both just had the silent agreement that what you did was game-changing, and that the non-existent relationship between you was no longer.

Despite the desperate attempts from the London team, the final whistle blew with the score maintaining a healthy lead. Your legs gave out as soon as the game ended, tears threatening to spill from your eyes and onto your cheeks as the weight of the season lifted from your shoulders. You felt a pair of arms lift you up, turning you around. The hug was only recently familiar, but tangible nonetheless.

Lauren held her arms around your waist, leaving you to collapse your arms over her shoulders. You watched her chest rise and fall, however, so slowly, a few choked sobs rang out from the older girl.

“I thought you weren't ‘gonna pass to me.” She said. You don't remember her ever speaking to you directly, but the attention made you blush.

“You could've gotten a double if I did.” You uttered, pulling her out of the hug. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” She replied, her cheeks also dusted pink. “I'm just glad it was your assist.”

You wondered if she was trying to make you flustered because you noticed how fidgety she got when you eyed her nervously.

“I mean like— I like you— wait, no, well— I like your assist-”

“Same. I mean— I'm glad you scored from my assist. Like— okay wait that doesn't make sense.”

“I get what you’re saying. That's what I meant.” Lauren muttered back, rubbing the back of her neck in embarrassment. “I wouldn't have wanted anyone else to assist me… in goals.”

“Yeah, same… in goals, yeah.”

Little did you know, your Aussie teammates Hayley and Alanna were standing next to Keira and Georgia, all overlooking the inept exchange between the two of you.

“God, you call that flirting.” Georgia laughed, the other three chuckling along. “Wouldn't want to see what their dates would look like.”

“Bloody painful, that's what.” Alanna sounded, taking a picture of the two of you.

“Wouldnt of expected anything different, to be honest. Both as awkward as each other.” Keira spoke.

And you were as awkward as each other, but that made for the perfect pair. A home away from home.

_____________________________

[hardtchill]

I feel stupid asking but I didn’t watch NWSL before 2024 and it still confuses me, but I often see people talk about the way Tobin left thorns and how it seemed she was bitter, do you mind explaining why? I’ve tried to look in to it I’m just completely lost. Sorry to ask!

oh god anon you just unlocked my hidden rage. Strap in, this is going to be a wild ride.

Tobin played for the Thorns ever since the start of the NWSL (2013), she was the biggest and most popular player there. She was loved in that city and she wanted to be there. If you don't know Tobin well, you need to know this part. Tobin didn't really consider any place home and traveled all the time. When she got to Portland she started to settle down and actually said she finally found her home. She had said multiple times that she wanted to finish her career in Portland. She even tried to get Portland to sign Christen so they could finally live in the same city and play together. I cannot overstate how much Portland loved Tobin and what an icon she was for that team.

Fast forward to 2020 and covid hitting. Tobin by then has bought a home and she spent quarantine in Portland with Christen. The NWSL wanting to be the first professional sports league back decides to organize the challenge cup in june 2020. Still one of the stupidest and most reckless ideas in NWSL history. Tobin (and Christen) elect not to play which Portland, turns out, really did not like. In september 2020 Tobin (and Christen) are signed by Manchester United to play overseas because they did want to play again (but somewhere safe).

It is important to note that Tobin's rights were still owned by Portland because in the NWSL players aren't human, they are cattle. In the 2020 expansion draft in which Louisville joins the league Portland decides not to protect Tobin and Louisville takes her rights (again, cattle). Everyone and their mother knows this is a foul thing to do and Tobin (and Christen) completely ignore Louisville up until this day. Portland got huge criticism for the way they treated Tobin, feeling like not protecting her (and also the lack of attention to her being drafted) was disrespectful to a player so important to the club. Portland also did nothing to trade her back which would have been perfectly allowed.

Afterwards Louisville being the cunts they are refused to give up Tobin's rights even though Tobin never wanted to play there (keep in mind that rights doesn't mean contract, tobin got no choice in the matter). Tobin couldn't sign with another NWSL team as long as Louisville refused to trade her rights or give them up. So Tobin decides to spent another year in England playing for Arsenal. She got injured again which what we now know to be a chronic knee issue. She returned to the NWSL briefly to join Reign (after Louisville FINALLY pulled their heads out of their asses) but never truly got back to fitness.

Basically Tobin's story is a classic example of why the NWSL will never be a professional league until they consider players to be humans who deserve human rights.

[drarryspecificrecs]

Draco Tops Harry Fest 2023 : (fics only)

@dracotops-harry || official masterpost || AO3 || ∑ = 16 works The Mod(s) : @digthewriter  Banner © : @digthewriter (official banner) + @fantalfart’s All I See is You (x)

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1. (Never) Let Me Go by @maraudersaffair [E, 17k]

Harry and Ginny are married, but she abandoned him for her Quidditch career overseas. He is lonely and desperate for love and very interested in sleeping with a man. Then, one night at a party, Draco Malfoy whispers in his ear: Do you want to leave with me? [...]

2. all I see is you by @makeitp1nk [M, 12k] --- ART by @fantalfart

The war is over, and all Harry Potter wants is to not feel like he's about to crawl out of his skin. Draco Malfoy is stuck with Voldemort's parting gift. One yearns for a soulmate while the other has no idea that they even exist. In a world where soulmates can only see each others' true selves, the past becomes the past and the two embrace their future over cups of milky coffee.

3. Brandishing The Wand by @ladderofyears [M, 2k]

When four Eighth Year boys overhear Draco and Harry having sex in the dormitory bathroom, each jumps to a very erroneous conclusion.

4. The First Source of Happiness by Lomonaaere [E, 13k]

Harry Potter is literally the most powerful wizard in the world- so powerful that the Unspeakables keep trying to devise challenges he can't meet. But Harry is also interested in having a lover who can take charge of him and won't be frightened off by his magic. In Unspeakable Draco Malfoy, Harry has perhaps found someone who can satisfy all his desires, and whose desires he can do the same with.

5. The First Time He Held Me by @shewhomustnotbenamed [E, 11k]

Draco works for a Muggle escort service, and uses a Polyjuice potion to disguise himself when meeting clients. [...] One night, he’s called to the room of the one man who he has always wanted, but could never have. Now, he needs to decide whether or not to reveal his true identity, or to remain in this polyjuiced body so that he can keep the attention of the Boy Who Lived.

6. Hair of the Cat by Enchanted_Jae [T, 2k]

Draco must scramble for an antidote after Potter tests one of his potions and turns into a cat.

7. Mirror Mirror by epiphany_dex [E, 33k]

Harry’s new year starts with a bang when he encounters Draco Malfoy at the Ministry Ball.

8. Now I Know In Part by @dodgerkedavra [E, 39k]

Harry Potter is the savior of the wizarding world. Draco Malfoy is a reformed Death Eater turned Ministry Curse-Breaker. Five years after the war, they're brought together by another mysterious curse.

9. only you, only us by @viridianvalor [E, 3k]

Years into their marriage, Draco and Harry share a fantasy: Draco watching as Harry gets fucked by another man. Now they’ve come up with a plan to make it happen, but with a twist - and they’ll need magic to pull it off.

10. Rekindled by @coffeedrgn87 [M, 5k]

Sometimes all it takes is a meet-cute in Greece.

11. The Way You Say My Name by InnerLilith [E, 5k]

In which Malfoy calls Harry pet names to get him flustered and riled up, and Harry gets flustered and riled up because he secretly likes it. The problem is that Malfoy is only teasing…or is he?

---

✔ other fests in 2023 ✔ fests in other years ✔ Draco Tops Harry Fest : 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

[viper-motorsports]

Boutsen Ginion cuts into the descent through the Belgian Ardennes with their artistic liveried N°10 BMW M6 GT3 earning a top five Pro/Am finish at the 2020 Spa 24 Hours.

[boxboxblog]

Ex Driver Profiles: Kevin Magnussen

Updated December 2024

Name: Kevin Jan Magnussen

Age: 32

Nationality: Danish

Years in F1: 9 (Mclaren 2014, Renault 2016, Haas 2017-2020 and 2022-2024)

Number: 20

WDCs: N/A

Driving Style: An aggressive and no-nonsense driver, Magnussen is known for never backing down from a challenge and being particularly bold in wheel-to-wheel battles. He brakes particularly late, which can lead to some brilliant overtakes. Magnussen as also an extremely hard defender, and has a particular way of positioning his car that makes it difficult to overtake whilst remaining inside the bounds of legality. A negative of his style is that he often does not temper aggressiveness with strategic moves or calmness, causing many crashes and getting penalties often. This leads to him scoring much lower than he feasibly should.

History:

(Young Magnussen in his first kart)

Born into a racing family (his father was an F1 driver) Magnussen got his first kart at age 2, growing up driving. He started professional karting when he was 6 years old and showed strong promise. In 2008 he moved from karting to car racing, participating in Formula Ford in Denmark, and taking the championship with 11 wins. In 2009 Magnussen moved up to Formula Renault 2.0. He had an extremely successful debut season, finishing 2nd in the Northern European cup (NEC) and 7th in the Eurocup. He was also named rookie of the year in the NEC series and displayed strong promise for the future.

(Magnussen, 2009)

In 2010 Magnussen competed in the German Formula Three Championship, winning the opening round of the season at Oschersleben and taking two more race victories. His non-victory races also yielded high points, and he finished 3rd in the season, gaining the rookie of the year award for this series. In 2011 Magnussen moved to the British F3 Championship and had a great year. He won multiple races, and finished 2nd in the standings

(Magnussen on podium in British F3)

Magnussen moved up to the Formula Renault 3.5 Series in 2012 and had a few race wins and high points finishes. He ended the season in 7th place in the championship. He competed once again in 2013, and it was far more successful for Magnussen, claiming five victories, eight other podium places and eight pole positions. He finished the season in first sixty points clear of the runner-up, winning the championship.

(Magnussen after winning the 2013 championship)

Throughout all of this, Magnussen had a relationship with F1, taking part in the Mclaren Young Driver Program from 2010 to 2013. In late 2013 it was announced that Magnussen was signed to Mclaren for the 2014 season, partnering 1x WDC Jenson Button. His first year in F1 was a mix of few highs, few lows, and many middles. His first race was a major high, as he would end the race in 3rd (later getting promoted to 2nd) and become one of the few drivers in F1 history to get a podium in their debut race. The middles were that most of his finishes for the rest of the season were in the 8-10 range, making low points his most normal result. He only finished outside the points a few times. While his performance seemed promising, especially for a rookie, he was replaced for the 2015 season by 2x WDC Fernando Alonso, becoming Mclaren's test and reserve driver.

(Magnussen after achieving podium in 1st F1 race)

The next time Magnussen would have a seat is for Renault in 2016. This would effectively cut off his relationship with Mclaren. His season with Renault would be an unlucky one. A number of races he was forced to retire due to engine problems, punctures, tire failures, and crashes. Regardless, he outperformed his teammate, Jolyon Palmer, scoring a majority of Renault's points. He finished the season 16th in the standings.

2017 Magnussen switched over to Haas, the newest team on the grid. There he would partner Romain Grosjean for the next four years. His time with Haas would be mostly results negative, as the team experienced car issues, money troubles, and other such problems. They almost never produced a competitive car, and so most of Magnussen's results remained in the low or no points positions. He did, however, out perform his teammate every single year they raced together and have a handful of standout performances in 2018. Beyond lower results, Magnussen created a reputation for himself as a dangerous driver due to his aggressive style, and was often at the epicenter of crashes. In 2020 both him and Grosjean were informed that they would not be back in the Haas seats for the 2021 season.

(Magnussen with teammate Romain Grosjean)

Magnussen returned to F1 to replace Russian driver Nikita Mazepin following the Russian invasion of Ukraine (and subsequent European sanctions) in 2022, and signed a multi-year deal with Haas. He partnered Mick Schumacher, son of a F1 legend, and their first year together was spent gaining mostly low level points and a few surprise high ones. 2023 was a more difficult season, and Magnussen (now partnering Nico Hulkenberg) saw a drop in performance. This was due to the fact that the 2023 Haas car did not respond well to Magnussen's driving style, and so he struggled the entire year to get into the points.

(Magnussen in his 2023 Haas)

2024 was a more positive year for Magnussen, especially the tail end of it. He scored multiple high points finishes, was ahead of his teammates for a lot of the latter-end races, and had some great performances. His highest finish was a 7th place finish in Mexico, and he finished 15th in the standings

For the 2025 season he does not have a seat.

Major Races:

2014 Australian GP - Magnussen's first race in F1, and his first podium, getting 2nd place. His solid qualifying and composure during the race made him a standout, and he had a stellar drive.

2014 Russian GP - One of his most underrated performances, Magnussen achieved a 5th place finish after fighting up the grid from 11th. He performed several fantastic overtakes and helped develop a strong strategy. This race displayed his ability to recover from setbacks.

2018 Bahrain GP - With a 5th place finish, Magnussen showed he still had potential in the Haas car. He was able to come back after a rather negative stretch in F1 and gain his team some valuable points.

2018 Austrian GP - Another 5th place finish, Magnussen solidified himself as one of the best midfield drivers, and helped Haas achieve there best ever constructers results. He showed his skill, avoiding race chaos, and navigating his way to a higher points finish.

2022 Brazilian GP - During sprint qualifying Magnussen secured his first ever pole position, His sensational lap showed his ability to capitalize on tricky conditions and pull a strong performance out of a struggling car.

Cheers,

-B

[stereopticons]

On This Day in Schitt's Creek: March 21

2018

better than all the rest [david/patrick, T, 2,014] by foxwatson

It’s not like this is the first time David has embarrassed himself for a loved one. aka this is a 4x09 reaction fic

2019

Apologies and Confessions of Love [david/patrick, NR, 927] by bombshellblonde

Just a short few scenes after Meet The Parents

occupying the same breath [david/patrick, T, 551] by @enablelove

After the tumultuous day, Patrick and David take a moment to relax in bed.

2020

All the Roads We Have to Walk [david/patrick, T, 23,561] by @meadowharvest4856

"I wonder what would've happened if we'd met in high school?" Patrick Brewer is ready to conquer the summer of 1999 at Camp Cedar Glade. He's in for a surprise, though, in the form of one David Rose.

Fools Rush In [david/patrick, g, 1,765] by @olrhys

“Well I don’t want to make assumptions,” David said, a teasing edge to his voice. “But it looks to me like you were doodling your first name and my last name together in our sales ledger less than a year into our relationship.” Or, David finds evidence that Patrick had been planning on marrying him a long, long time ago.

Pen15 is Mightier Drabble Challenges [multi fandom, E, 5,856, CW: harry potter] by BrandonStrayne

A random assortment of drabbles written for the Pen15 is Mightier weekly drabble challenges. Each chapter will be its own drabble and the title of the chapter will be the prompt for that particular challenge.

The Way We Were [johnny/moira, G, 1,920] by MadisonAvenue

Currently pregnant with Alexis, Moira laments on her life and her capabilities as a mother

2021

A Change of Plans [david/patrick, T, 718] by @rmd-writes

From his vantage point on the couch, David can see that Patrick is sulking. He’s sitting at the table staring at the laptop, beer untouched, his hand clenched in a fist on the table. He sighs and sips his wine, trying to assess whether enough time has passed that he can approach Patrick. Or David knows how to deal with Pouty Patrick

even doubt can be delicious (or moderately edible) [david/patrick, G, 9,686] by @lilythesilly

“My coffee, please. To go.” A to-go cup is slid into his line of vision, except when he takes a sip it’s not his coffee, it’s liquid death. “Um, what is this supposed to be?” He asks, looking up and startling when he sees a face that is not Twyla staring back at him. “You’re not Twyla.” The guy in front of him smiles, like he’s amused by fucking up his coffee order. “No, I’m Patrick.” An AU retelling of Season 3 where instead of going to work for Ray, Patrick gets a job at the cafe.

Excel-lent Excuse for a Celebration [david/patrick, G, 221] by @dazedwriter1

David and Patrick had saved a bottle of wine from opening day to be had in the future at an unknown date when a celebration was needed. Patrick found the perfect excuse. A short text message based fic.

Featuring the Patron Saint of Drag Queens [david/patrick, NR, 1,825] by TuttleAsHimself

Clint is very fond of his son-in-law, but it's rare that he and David find themselves alone in each other's company. What will they talk about while Patrick and Marcy are out hiking? Turns out they do have some common ground. Despite the title this doesn't actually have anything to do with drag queens lol. Maybe one day.

Grenada [david/patrick, T, 300] by Rosey_Peach

i might be a malady, thank god you're my galaxy (my sweet relief) [alexis/twyla, T, 1,581] by @turningtimeinthetardis

Twyla’s not sure what hurts worse, her embarrassment or her hangover.

the ex [david/patrick, T, 1,089] by @grapehyasynth

David has mostly done a good job of not letting himself think long-term commitment thoughts about Patrick, which is 50% of why it hurts the way it does when Alexis turns to the redhead she’s invited to their family barbecue and gasps, “Wait, *Patrick* is your *husband*?”

three o'clock [alexis/twyla, E, 2,914] by @schittyfic

“Oooh, Twy, three o’clock.” “Huh?” Twyla wrinkles her nose at Alexis in confusion, picking up her phone from the vaguely-sticky table and checking the screen. “It’s nine thirty-two.” “No-no, babe, like, three o’clock.” Alexis enunciates each syllable, widening her eyes and jerking her head dramatically. It’s still, like, totally subtle, though. She closes her glossed lips around the straw of her daiquiri as Twyla finally turns to look across the bar. “Oh,” Twyla breathes out, unknowingly mirroring Alexis’s pose, sucking her own straw into her mouth as they both stare. - Or: two tipsy girlfriends thirst over the hot, bearded guy across the bar.

To Hold You in My Arms [david/patrick, NR, 1,910] by TuttleAsHimself

After realizing David is part of THAT Rose family at Patrick's surprise party, Marcy's curiosity gets the better of her and she makes a painful discovery concerning David's past. (Warnings are in the tags just to be safe, but it's all briefly touched on and not at all graphic)

where we're headed for [david/patrick, M, 58,077] by stillicide_snow

“So did you start wearing all black because you’re an international cat burglar or did you base your career choice on your wardrobe?” Or, David used to be a jewel thief. Allegedly. He doesn't do that anymore. Patrick works in insurance, and he has a few questions about those recent break-ins... An AU in which David leaves Schitt's Creek for good at the end of season one, and then his past starts to catch up to him.

wish i'd known this feeling is coming [david/patrick, T, 670] by budd

Set after the events of "Pregnancy Test" and prior to "Girls' Night", David and Patrick cuddle for the first time at Ray's following a night of (silent) sex.

you'd rather lie than fall [david/patrick, G, 39,993] by @maxbegone

“Stevie,” he starts, tears brimming his eyes. “I can’t stay here. I... I should have seen it all coming. I should have known that—” A hiccup escapes him and he swallows, hard. “That everything good was just going to fall apart. It always does. Nothing works out for me.” “That’s not true, David. Look what you’ve created.” She throws a hand out in the general direction of the town. “You guys can...you can work through this. There are other options.” “Nope.” David is adamant, then, righting his face of any emotion. “Running away was what I did in the past, I can do it again now.” — David should have suspected it. Patrick was too perfect in all his neat and organized glory. He should have seen Rachel coming from a mile away. That was five months ago. There’s no rekindling that now. The other shoe drops and David really does leave Schitt’s Creek for New York, only to find that in a city of eight million people, it’s still very easy to be lonely. But bumping into the one person he never expected to on his morning coffee run might just lead to a friendship he never knew he needed.

2022

I Can Fix That [david/patrick, T, 1,733] by mallpretzles

The proposal is put on hold when Patrick injures his foot. This is the story of plan b.

2023

How Long Will I Love You? [david/patrick, E, 24,399] by @ficsfromabrokenchair

This is my first long AU, and my first fic inspired by a movie. While it’s not essential to this storyline, if you have a hard time wrapping your mind around time travel or need a visual of what I’m describing, I’d suggest watching About Time. Plus, it’s just a sweet film. Bill Nighy, anyone?! This work is my love letter to the idea that these two belong together in every universe. But their journey won’t be free of challenges.It’s an AU but it follows canon very closely… until it doesn’t. Then it does again. Stick with me. A huge thank you to the better half of my writing brain, Goodiecornbread, for navigating the mother of all timey-wimey plots with me and still wanting to be friends on the other side. This fic wouldn’t have made it out of my brain and into nine disorganized Google docs without you. You always handle my David-level spirals with grace.

Rain [david/patrick, M, 100] by @sspaz1000

David's making breakfast, when it starts to rain. Patrick is out for a run. What happens when David sees Patrick?

Stats:

No fanworks for 2017 or 2024 2018: 1 fic/2,014 words 2019: 2 fics/1,478 words 2020: 4 fics/33,102 words 2021: 12 fics/118,984 words 2022: 1 fic/1,733 words 2023: 2 fics/24,499 words Total: 22 fics/181,810 words

[sweeter-innocence-fics]

Surviving New York - Chapter Seven

Pairing: Pietro Maximoff x Reader

Work Summary: 

Sequel to Surviving Sokovia. You survived the destruction of your home country of Sokovia, but the Avengers compound presents its own set of challenges.

Series Masterlist

Rating: Explicit

Word Count: 2020

Read on AO3.

Masterlists.

Taglist: @mcximffs @noz4a2 @rottenstyx @starmansirius @xlucyintheskywithdiamondsx @lanemarvels @marrigold-2002 @kathrinchek @alternativeprincess @annocaprosmaloka @thrutheburnout @idkman5335 @mrs-kai-anderson @ang3l1te @missryerye

Taglist info

Previous Chapter

Notes: warnings for low self esteem, depression, mental illness etc. they're working through it, guys

---

Hours later, you and Pietro were walking side by side back to your room. He could’ve had you both there in a split second, but the two of you had made the silent agreement to walk. The back of your hand occasionally brushed against his. It was a familiar and comforting warmth.

The plan was set. You knew where Hydra had taken Olek. Now you just had to wait until morning.

You didn’t know how you were supposed to sleep, knowing that your son was still in danger, but Steve had insisted that you try.

You had tried to persuade the Avengers to leave now, but that idea had been shot down. Half of the team were in no fighting shape right now. It wouldn’t help Olek if Hydra managed to kill you all before you reached him.

Pietro hadn’t slept in 36 hours. He looked utterly exhausted. Both of you needed to be at your best.

And you weren’t much of a fighter. You didn’t have the combat training that Pietro and the rest of the team had, but you had used your powers to save your own life several times.

You’d also killed more people than Pietro ever had. In fact, Pietro had never killed anyone. His role, more often than not, was evacuating civilians. You had only killed people when cornered, and with Pietro’s powers, it was hard to corner him.

Some of the Avengers hadn’t been all that keen on you coming along on the mission at all. You were, for all intents and purposes, a civilian. You had bared your teeth at that, ready to growl and snap like a dog, but Pietro had said, “We are doing this to rescue our son. If she wants to come, then she’s coming.”

You had been thankful for that. You had been worried that he might agree with them. After all, they were right. You would be a liability. But you couldn’t not go. You had to get Olek back. You felt like you would start peeling off your own skin if they tried to keep you from this.

Pietro had a history of being a little overprotective of you, but he seemed to see the wild look in your eyes, and understand what you needed. That was nice. It had been a while since you’d felt like you’d truly been understood.

Neither of you spoke when you got back to your room. You had expected Pietro to go straight to bed, as exhausted as he was, but instead, he sat down heavily on the sofa, his arms spread out across its back.

You sat down beside him, facing him with one knee tucked beneath you. “{Thank you for backing me up back there},” you said, “{I don’t know what I would do with myself if I couldn’t go tomorrow}.”

“{I’ll always back you up},” said Pietro, slightly vacantly. He was staring at a spot on the wall, his mind clearly far away.

“{You should get some rest}.”

“{Right}.”

Neither of you moved. The only sound in the room was the quiet ticking of the wall clock as the minutes crept by.

You watched Pietro’s face. He didn’t look at you. The dark circles under his eyes aged him, but his eyes looked like those of a child. You reached out and cupped his stubbled cheek, and finally he turned to look at you.

He looked as though he was going to say something, but you got there first.

“{Why aren’t you angry with me?}” you whispered, afraid of the answer but tired of not knowing.

His eyebrows drew together, his handsome face lined with concern. “{Because this isn’t your fault. We’ve been over this}.”

You shook your head. “{I fucked up. Over and over again. I pushed you away and I let Jake get too close and he took our baby}.” Your breath hitched and your vision began to blur with tears. “{You should leave me. You should’ve left me a long time ago}.”

“{What?!}” Now, for the first time since Olek had been taken, Pietro sounded angry. “{What are you talking about?}”

Letting out a disbelieving sigh, you looked up into his face. He was staring at you, confusion written across his features.

“{Come on, Piet. Look at you. Look at me. The only reason we ever made sense was because I was the only girl you knew who wasn’t your sister}.” He stuttered over a protest, looking offended, but you pushed on. “{I don’t know how things would’ve gone if I hadn’t been pregnant. But I did get pregnant. And you got stuck with me. You’d be happier without me. We both know that}.”

He let out a couple of choked off noises before finally bursting out with “{That’s not true!}”. He had one hand on his chest, clutching over his own heart, like your words had punched a hole right through him. It hurt to look at. All you wanted was for him to be happy. You couldn’t believe that he’d be happy to stay with you forever. “{I’m not stuck with you},” he said, “{I love you}.”

You rubbed your eyes. They were starting to ache from crying. You hated how hard Pietro was making this. You were trying to give him an escape. Why couldn’t he see that?

“{You have the world at your fingertips, Piet. You can have anything. But you’ve got me because you’re too much of a gentleman to abandon to mother of your child. I’m trying to tell you that it’s okay, Piet}.” It felt like there wasn’t enough air in your lungs, but you kept pushing until it burned. “{If you want something else. Someone else. A different life. One where you’re not shackled to me just because we used to be trapped in a cage together}.”

In a blink, you were pinned to the edge of the sofa, your wrists held together in one of Pietro’s hands. His other hand was holding onto your waist.

“{If you don’t love me, then just say so},” he said through gritted teeth. “{Don’t try to make it out like you’re doing this for me. If you want to leave, you can leave. It’ll break my heart but I would never keep you somewhere you didn’t want to be}.” He released your wrists. You could tell he was waiting for you to push him away.

“{That’s what I’m trying to say to you. I don’t want to leave. I love you. I want you. But I also want you to be happy}.”

Pietro cupped your face in both of his hands. His body was still tense, muscles coiled tight.

“{We could be happy},” he said. His thumb rubbed over your cheekbone, swiping away the tears there. “{You said I could have anything? Well, I don’t want the world. I just want you}.”

“{Pietro, you’ve barely touched me since Olek was born. How am I supposed to believe that you want me when- Ah-}” You let out a gasp as Pietro sunk his teeth into your neck. You flailed for a moment, but your hands ended up in his hair, holding him against you. Short, shuddery breaths fell from your lips as heat lanced through your whole body. It had been far too long since you’d felt like this.

After a moment, he let you go, pressing soothing kisses over the bitemark. You squeezed your eyes shut, letting the sensation of his lips on your skin wash over you.

“{My sweet girl},” Pietro murmured, “{You are my world, but you’re also a fool}.” He pulled back to look you in the eyes. “{You really thought I didn’t want you?}”

“{I- We- We haven’t had sex since Olek was born}.”

He sighed softly, his eyes sad. “{I was trying to go slowly for your sake}.”

“{What?}” you breathed. His hand slid under your t-shirt, over your stomach to reach your waist.

“{My love}.” He closed his eyes, huffing out a laugh. “{You’d just given birth. We had escaped Hydra, who forced us to have sex with each other. The last thing I wanted was to put pressure on you, if you weren’t ready}.”

“{Piet...}” You blinked, your vision swimming with tears. You were so stupid. All this time, you’d thought that Pietro didn’t want you. You’d created a narrative in your head and let it wrap around you until it consumed you. A sharp, hysterical laugh slipped from your lips. “{I’m so sorry}.”

“{You should’ve told me that you felt this way},” he said.

“{You’re right. I should’ve}.” More reasons to blame yourself. More reasons to hate yourself.

Pietro gripped your chin, forcing you to look him in the eyes. “{None of that. I can see you overthinking. So stop thinking. Let me show you how much I want you}.”

You could only nod. He pressed his face into your neck and inhaled deeply. Your eyes fluttered closed.

You let him pull your t-shirt off over your head. Your heart was hammering in your chest. His eyes were on you – your breasts, your stomach, your hips – roving over you with such reverence.

Of course, your body had changed with pregnancy and birth. You sagged in places that you hadn’t before. You had stretch marks and stomach rolls and hormones had wreaked havoc on your skin.

Pietro didn’t seem to care. He kissed you as he unhooked your bra, and then pressed his face between your breasts as it fell away. You let out a hiss of pain as he thumbed over your nipple, and he drew back.

“{What’s wrong?}” he asked.

“{They’re oversensitive. From breastfeeding}.” Your mind went back to Olek and a shudder went through you. Before you knew what was happening, you were crying.

Pietro wrapped his arms around your waist and pulled you into his lap. One hand was firmly rubbing against your bare back.

“{It’s okay, my love},” he murmured. “{It’s going to be okay}.” You wished you could believe him. You were terrified of what would happen if you failed tomorrow. You couldn’t lose Olek. You just couldn’t.

You buried your face into Pietro’s neck and cried. He leant his head against yours. You could tell from the hitching of his breath that he was crying too. You stroked his cheek, trying to soothe him the way he was soothing you, and you felt his shoulders relax.

*

You weren’t sure how long you stayed like that, curled up in each other’s arms, but at one point you must’ve fallen asleep. You woke up with Pietro carrying you to bed.

“{I need to brush my teeth},” you said blearily, so he redirected to the bathroom.

As he set you down on your feet, you realised that you were still shirtless. Pietro’s eyes lingered on your breasts, and you felt your face begin to flush with heat.  

You stood in front of the mirror, brushing your teeth, and Pietro joined you. Side by side, you were almost touching, but not quite. In the mirror, Pietro flashed you a grin that made your insides churn with want. All at once, you were a married couple, and you were teenagers experiencing their first brush with romance.

When you bent over to spit your toothpaste into the sink, Pietro put a hand on your lower back to steady you, and it sent a jolt of electricity up your spine. Your aching nipples hardened in anticipation as he slid his hand down the curve of your ass and squeezed.

You straightened up and Pietro took his turn to spit out his toothpaste.

“{I meant what I said before, you know},” he murmured as you washed your face. “{I want you. This isn’t about loyalty, or doing the honourable thing. When we’re apart I think about you all the time. I miss your touch. You mean everything to me}.”

You turned to him, but he was bending down over the sink again to splash water onto his face. You put your hand on his shoulder, feeling the firm muscles there.

Your eyes met his in the mirror as you said, “{Show me}.”

Next Chapter

[ottawacharge]

Jessie Fleming interview: Adapting to the Thorns, her Chelsea exit and pushing for environmental change

Jessy Parker Humphreys, Wednesday, July 24th

Ask Jessie Fleming what topics interest her about the environment and she will start reeling them off.

“Urban planning, the power of funghi, regenerative agriculture, Dan Barber…”

Barber is an American chef who advocates for farm-to-table cooking, in case you are not as looped into the environmental ethics of food as Fleming.

“I started taking courses on environmental science for fun at university and I got down this rabbit hole,” she explains. Fleming ended up minoring in the subject at university in Los Angeles and has been committed to raising awareness about issues with our environment ever since.

This latest pledge comes off the back of her choice to donate the carbon cost of her long-haul flight to the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand as part of a 47-player initiative through Common Goal, a charitable movement launched by Spain international Juan Mata six years ago.

Fleming left Women’s Super League (WSL) champions Chelsea in January, going from a league in England where players travel to games by train or coach to one where they can fly thousands of miles across the country every weekend, such is the geographical spread of the 14 teams.

“It’s something I think about a lot,” she says. “As players, we have a responsibility to draw attention to those problems and suggest ways leagues and governing bodies can adjust the format of tournaments or the schedule of leagues to help reduce those footprints.

“We’re all hypocritical in a way, so we need to at least do something.”

There was a feeling around Fleming’s mid-season departure from Chelsea that she had never quite lived up to her potential. Arriving in summer 2020 fresh out of the U.S. college game at UCLA, her stock was very high, having originally made her senior debut for Canada aged only 15.

Yet she never nailed down a starting spot, despite featuring 111 times across four seasons and being trusted by manager Emma Hayes to start crucial matches such as the 2022-23 Champions League semi-final second leg against Barcelona at Camp Nou.

“I loved my time at Chelsea, loved the league, loved England. I just wanted to be in a place where I was consistently playing in the same position and playing more consistent minutes.”

Fleming has certainly got that with Portland, where she has started 13 of their 15 matches so far this season, but the return to the U.S. has been an adjustment. Portland had their worst start to an NWSL season, failing to win any of their first four games and consequently sacking manager Mike Norris. A six-game winning run followed, but with only one victory in the past four league fixtures, it is clear they are still finding their feet as a team.

Those ups and downs are a unique experience for Fleming, who lost only one more league match in three-and-a-half years with Chelsea than she has in six months in Portland.

“It’s definitely a different challenge,” she says. “Physically, it’s more intense (in the NWSL). More transitional, lots of athletic players. But you’re starting to see the effect of European coaches in the league. There are more teams trying to play possession-based, thoughtful football. I’ve never seen anything like how competitive the NWSL is, especially when you look at the teams at the top of the table who had poor seasons last year. That’s not something you would ever see in the WSL.

“The start of the season was especially difficult for us, because we had so many new players. We spent so little time together before the first game — that was a challenge I’d never experienced before. I think we’re feeling the effects of the ebb and flow of the season right now. You have to be so tuned-in mentally for every game, every week. If you do go through a low spell, you have to find ways to turn it around quickly, because getting a few wins will push you up the table.”

The NWSL season is about to be paused for the Olympics, which begin in France at the end of this month, where Fleming will be hoping to help Canada’s women retain the title they won at the previous Games in Japan three years ago. Paris 2024 will be her third Olympics and Canada have won medals at her previous two, taking bronze in Brazil in 2016, but a disappointing World Cup campaign, where they exited at the group stage after one win and two goals (one of them an own-goal) in the three games, has put a dampener on expectations.

“I struggled with penalties a bit at university, so it’s definitely not something I’ve always felt able to do,” she says. “I feel like for that coolness, I have to turn to my team-mates and our environment. I feel very supported and backed up with the national team and that helped me massively during that tournament.”

This time out, she’ll be in a new role as captain. Anyone who has watched Fleming play will know she is not the most vocal on the pitch, but she feels she can bring something different to the role.

“I’m definitely on the quieter side, but I’m learning there are so many different ways to lead,” Fleming says. “I don’t love speaking in front of a loud group of people and I feel like I thrive a bit more when I’m one-on-one with players. I would say I’m a bit of a football brain. I love watching the game, I love talking about tactics, and I’m always interested in how to improve, both as an individual and as a team.

“For me, it’s about letting my passion for football shine through and trying to bring others with me in that.”

[jamiebamberdaily]

A Year in Review : Jamie's 2024

Welcome to our look back on Jamie’s 2024! It’s been another busy year for Jamie and so as we have been doing every year, it’s time to do our yearly review of Jamie’s 2024 career.

January started off strong with RAM Films’ Kenny Logan’s Rugby World Cup Documentary airing a shortened version over on BBC Breakfast. This month also saw him attend his first Comic Con of the year as he attended MegaCon at Excel in London.

The end of February gave us the official announcement of his involvement in The Wives which also started filming in the same month. Jamie was cast as Charlie Morgan, the widower of missing Sister-In-Law, Annabelle Morgan. He then took time out of filming at the beginning of March to attend York Comic Con, which we were lucky enough to attend.

As with every year, April saw him celebrate his 51st birthday! We also were given the announcement to the How Copy audio drama podcast. The Wives also wrapped filming in Malta.

The How Copy podcast was released the following month in May which Jamie guest starred in as Captain Brill. While June was the US release month of DI Ray and saw the announcement for July’s Metro Comic Con.

Jamie was a guest on the Game Of Life Podcast in July before he travelled over to Australia to attend Metro Comic Con.

August saw the trailer and release date announcement for Jamie’s movie, Strangers, that was filmed in Bulgaria in 2023. The same month also gave us the exciting news that he was returning to Beyond Paradise for series 3. Our page also celebrated it’s 6 year anniversary AND we got a first look at The Wives!

September was a busy month in terms of Jamie screen-time as it saw both the release of The Wives, airing over 2 weeks (and split into 3 episodes a week) and Strangers beginning it’s streaming on Paramount Plus, which also had him talking to Tony Toscano on his Talking Pictures podcast about the movie. At the end of September, Sky Sports + showed the full Rugby World Cup Challenge documentary, which we may, or may not be in.

October was the 1 year anniversary of the challenge itself and the UK FINALLY got DI Ray on ITV! October was an exciting times for Battlestar Galactica fans as many of the cast (including Michael Hogan who has been battling health issues since 2020) reunited in Illinois, Chicago for the 20th Anniversary convention.

Speaking of Battlestar Galactica, Jamie was a guest on Katee Sackhoff’s Podcast in November where they talked about things such as the BSG audition process, his decision to move his family from LA to Paris before returning to London and how he developed a love for Coffee on the set of BSG. Finally, also in November, Jamie attended a parlimentary reception at the House Of Commons hosted by PETA to pressure the government to phase out animal testing and experiments.

2025 already has us looking forward to Jamie's return as Archie Hughes in Beyond Paradise, which will likely air in the Spring and we cannot wait to see what else 2025 brings for Jamie!

As ever, we would like to thank you for all the support of our page over this past year and wish you all a very happy new year!

Jemma and Sophie. xx