#colin and isaac are back too

[caslutz]

Ted Lasso Text Posts: Part #7

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

[imaginingmanyfandoms]

youre what makes me free - jamie tartt x kent!reader

summary; the bachelor / bachelorette parties based off of this request

jamie tartt x kent!reader masterlist

warnings; lap dances, strippers (mostly mentioned - but mentioned with respect) making out, drunk reader, jamie just loves you

For the record, it was never Jamie's idea to go to a strip club.

It was Isaac's.

And Isaac was the only one who really seemed to be having a good time.

Well, him and Dani who was currently on stage with two of the girls, dancing to his heart's content. And Richard was chatting up one of the ladies on his lap and he seemed content.

Okay, everyone was having a good time. But most of it had nothing to do with the ladies, they were all just excited that next week, Jamie would be getting married. If Jamie could do it, they all could.

Roy was sitting on a pink couch, wondering why the hell he was here in the first place, arms crossed, watching... waiting...

Jaime was sitting with Colin, laughing loudly about something or other, the two of them had lost count of how many drinks he's had. He was annoyingly nonchalant about the girls who were vying for his attention, completely cavalier about the beautiful women who want to spend their time on the Jamie Tartt's lap, taking his money and his time.

But instead he's just buying drinks, laughing hard with Colin who is about equally as interested in the girls.

Jamie's respect for you is... pissing off Roy.

It's solidifying in his mind that this is the prick you're marrying, and he's... he's good to you. Good about you. Doesn't even playfully flirt anymore, not since he put that ring on your finger and promised you his life. It was weird, it was like he just decided to be a grown up.

And he'd made the choice on his own. He'd met you, and decided that no one compares, and Roy is finding it hard to blame him for that. You were one of the best people in the world, being in your orbit was an honour and privilege. And Jamie didn't seem like he was wasting it. He's been with you for years, and unless someone was keeping a secret from Roy, he hadn't really done anything to mess it up. Couple of normal fights between partners, but no catastrophic mistakes, no infidelities...

It sucks to be wrong, it sucks extra hard to be wrong about Jamie Tartt, and then have to welcome him into your fucking family.

But Roy would do anything for you.

Even be Jamie Tartt's best fucking man.

At his stupid fucking wedding.

Jaime's eyes lock with Roy's, and he whispers something to Colin before tapping their beers together and making his way over to the pink couch Roy is scowling on.

"Not having much fun, Royo?" Jamie asked, flopping onto the couch next to him. "Can I buy you a drink? A dance?" Jaime asks, wiggling his eyebrows.

Roy scoffs, as if he would accept a dance surrounded by the team. Even if the girls were gorgeous, he was the coach, and brother of the bride... it was too weird.

"Drink," Roy said, eyes lingering over to Isaac who had two girls on his lap, "you been keepin' your hands to yourself?"

Jamie laughed, "as if you haven't been watchin' the whole time, old man." Jamie ordered drinks from the next waitress that passed, ignoring the way her eyes lingered on him, he'd already moved back to talk to Roy. "I don't really want anyone 'ere," he shrugged, "jus' wanna drink with my mates then crawl into bed with my girl after." Jamie smiled, "Maybe she'll let me..." he was smirking, then he looked at Roy and his smile dropped, "nevermind."

"Good choice," Roy grunted, accepting his drink with a nod. "Why'd we come here then? I don't think she'd be mad if you got a dance, she knows we're here, right?"

"Just seemed like a right of passage honestly, like yeah, we talked abou' it but," Jamie just shrugged, took a swig of his drink, "I didn't really want her to have a lapdance, so it was only fair that I didn't have one either. Didn't really want some bloke rubbin' up on 'er." Jamie shuddered. "It's about equality."

Roy nodded, "fair enough," he took a drink, "so is her party tonight too then? I haven't spoken to her in a few days, she's been so stressed with the wedding I've been scared to call."

"Nah, we decided on different days so we would each have a getaway driver if we need one," Jamie laughed, "don't tell Isaac but she's picking me up later."

"Jesus christ," Roy muttered, "you guys are really like a team, huh?"

"I've been tellin' you Royo, she's good to me and I'm good to 'er!" Jamie held his drink up for Roy to cheers, and in surprise of them both, Roy clinked his bottle. "Sorry I'm making her a Tartt. You'll get used to it."

"No, I don't fucking think I will, thanks."

The two looked towards the stage, where Isaac and Richard had joined Dani on the stage, Colin locked eyes with Jamie and nodded up there with them.

"Coming? It'll be a laugh!"

"Fuck no," Roy groaned, "but have fun."

Jamie smiles sincerely, he thinks Roy even means that. Jamie chugs the rest of his drink, burps, then scampers off to join the boys on stage. Roy laughs quietly, if that's the worst Jamie does at his bachelor party, get on stage and dance like an idiot while a bunch of grown ass men chant, Jamie Tartt do do do do do, then he'll probably be a pretty okay husband.

"C'mon!!" Keeley shouted, "let's have another shot before I get the surprise for you!"

The bar was full, and you guys were drinking in a smaller VIP room, blocked off from the rest of the club. It was perfect, you could go dance with the crowd then you could all file back into the room to sit and drink and get away from all the strangers.

"I'll do a shot but Keeley seriously, it can't be a stripper!" you were shouting to be heard over the music, "we agreed on no lap dances."

"It'll be alright, you turnip! Just trust me will ya?" Keeley doesn't let you speak, just feeds you another shot then straightens out your sash.

She sits you on a comfy chair sat right in the middle of the room, a set up. This was a set up. Before you can get up, Keeley pushes you right back down.

"It's important to have a lap dance at your bachelorette!" she said, "so I figured a way around Jamie's preference!"

Before you could argue, Rebecca pulled the door open. Nothing happened for a moment, but then you're laughing, you're laughing and clapping and overjoyed because you're so drunk, and your fiancé, just came in the room, wearing gold shorts and a half sized gold vest with a little tie and everything. He had a pink boa around his neck, and his hair was perfect tousled, and you just wanted to get your hands in it.

Everyone was cheering. Sassy was exploding with joy, watching the footballer start his sexy little trot towards you, while Keeley and Rebecca giggled like school girls watching the whole scene unfold. The rest of your friends were gathered, watching in awe as the sexiest man on the football team waltz over to you. Well, sexiest footballer was an open debate but to you, there was only one clear answer.

"Jamie!" you squealed, grabby hands held out to him in full force making him laugh, "what're you doing here?"

"Keeley said I'd be depriving you of a womanly experience at your bachelorette," he said, taking the boa off himself and putting it around your neck. "And I couldn't to do that to ya, love."

There were claps and cheers all around as Jamie straddles your lap, gyrating like the little Tartt he was, unashamed to be doing this in front of your friends.

He had this whole bit planned, where he would say, 'uh, you're not allowed to touch the dancers darling,' if you tried to touch him, but as your fingers trailed down his abs, he couldn't bring himself to do it, he didn't want you to stop. He'd fuck you in front of everyone here if you'd let him.

Your smile fueled him, as always. Made him feel like he could do fucking anything. His hips kept twirling in your lap, like he'd practiced what to do, and he held your face in his hands, gently, like he was holding something precious, which to him, he was. The whole world was in his hands. And then he kissed you, making everyone in the room scream and cheer. They were watching a romantic movie kiss. You and Jamie kissed so lovingly, and deeply, that you had all the girls yearning.

Not to make anyone jealous, but you were about to marry the sexiest footballer in town, and he was kissing you like there was no one else in the room.

"We should go before they start shaggin'," Sassy said, "but I also don't really want to look away."

"Five minutes!" Keeley shouted, "then we come back in to get the bride, this party isn't for you!" The girls started filing out of the room, several taking shameless glances at Jamie's thick thighs on their way by. "No shagging in here!"

Jamie pulled away from the kiss after everyone had left. "You look beautiful tonight."

"Thanks baby," you said, eyes opening slowly, "you look very sexy, like a sexy little genie or something."

"You knoooow," Jamie said, standing up but leaning over towards you, perfectly angled for a kiss but speaking in a hush tone instead, "we said no lap dances, so I didn't get one, but you did."

You open your mouth for some snippy retort about how Jamie had set you up, but you're cut off by your own squeal as Jamie picks you up and slides under you, pulling you back onto him with ease.

"My turn," he says, and you can practically hear him smirking.

You obey, you roll your hips against his in a way you know drives him crazy. You know he'll regret starting this when Keeley comes to collect you, and you know she will, as your party isn't close to over, and you don't want it to be. You want to dance with your girls longer.

"I'm having fun," you giggled, grinding your ass slowly over Jamie's now growing bulge as he grips your hips, head thrown back in pleasure. He thinks he could come from this alone, he also thinks he'll be asking for lap dances from you from now on. "Did you enjoy your last night of freedom?" you ask.

Jamie leans his head back up, and circles his hands around your waist, pulling you tighter into him, stilling you. His nose tickles your hairline above your ear as he whispers, "You're what makes me free, love. I wasn't free 'til I had you."

You turned around, straddling him like he'd done to you, his arms still secure around your back, tightening again after letting you move around.

You continue to roll your hips, against his rock hard length, one hand flat on his collarbone, fingers tickling the base of his neck, while the other sneaks into his hair, massaging his scalp and encouraging a moan out of him, and that's when you kiss him, tongue rolling into his mouth right away, catching him off guard but not for long, and he's kissing you back, deeper, harder, holding you against him so tightly it's like he wants to become one.

"Hey!!" is shouted from the door, and a drunk Keeley is pointing angrily, "this party is about her! Not you, ya horny bastard. C'mon babes, we're dancing. Jamie," she points at him, as she's pulling you off, directing you out the door. She pauses when she sees his obvious erection. "Shame on you. Go home!"

Jamie doesn't go home.

He throws on joggers and a hoodie and waits in his car until the club closes, and you, Keeley and Rebecca stumble over yourselves leaving the bar. He smiles, you've been stressed trying to plan the wedding, and Jamie's been a great help but it's been a lot, and seeing you let loose and smile makes him happy. He honks the horn, and you all cheer.

"I texted you so soon ago!" you slur, hugging Jamie tightly when he gets out of the car to help you all in.

"I always know when my lady needs me," he says, holding out his hand to help Rebecca into the car, and then Keeley, all while you hold your arms around him tightly. "C'mon, you're next, ya drunk little thing, you."

He's patience incarnate as he guides you to the passenger seat, and makes sure your seatbelt is done up, and just smiles and obeys when you pout and ask for a kiss. Rebecca is already asleep, but Keeley is just watching from the backseat, sincere smile on her face at the two of you.

Rebecca gets dropped off first, and Jamie and Keeley bring her into the house, where Keeley decides she better just stay. And then the two of you are alone in the car, and Jamie has his hand on your thigh, driving slowly and nodding along you every drunk thing you babble, like it's all been very important information.

"I used to thin' you only asked me out all the time to bug Royo," you slur, placing your hand on top of Jamie's. "But I was wrong."

Jamie laughs, "yes, you were very wrong."

You thread your fingers through his, holding his hands tightly. You look at his profile, focused on the road but taking a peak in your direction occasionally.

"Jamie?"

"Yeah, babe?"

"I think you might be the best thing to ever happen to me."

Jamie's heart swells, and his throat is tight. And even drunk you're the sweetest thing in the world, and he just squeezes your hand in answer, smiling, and stealing a glance at you. You're looking out the window now, eyelids getting heavy and harder to fight.

And Jamie thinks this is probably what life is all about.

[nameless-jamie]

Your ff are so adorable! Especially the PA ones 😍😍 Could you write one abou Jamie having to go to practise or sth and so he absentmindedly puts his arm around PA and kisses the top/side of her head and gies without a second thought and she's just dumbfounded. Maybe the Team saw and teases Jamie about it so to proof that it's not a big deal he just continues to do that and PA doesn't know why he does it but she likes it and doesn't stop him and the Team notices that too? Thanks 🤭🤭🤭

Slip-Up

Masterlist

Jamie Tartt x fem! PA reader

A/N: Thank you for all the nice messages guys! I'm okay I guess. my writing is kinda shit but I didn't want to not post. Love ya xo.

TW: cursing, suggestive language/scenes, kissing

Jamie had never been good at keeping secrets—especially when it came to things that made him happy.

And right now, the thing that made him happiest was the fact that he was secretly sleeping with his personal assistant. Yes, Y/N his assistant he's been in love with basically since day one. And now they are a thing—they are something...

Well—okay, it wasn’t just about the sex. Though Jamie would be the first to admit that the sex was fucking incredible. But it was also everything else—the stolen moments, the whispered jokes, the way she looked at him like he was the best thing she’d ever seen, even when he was being an absolute dumbass.

It had been weeks since that first confession, that first kiss, and that first night he’d held her close in his bed, murmuring against her skin, Fuck, I love you. And since then, their relationship had been a secret. Their secret. To the team it was normal that they were together at all times, Y/N was his assistant so it was kind of her job, nut no one had to know that there was more going on behind that...or so Y/N thought.

Which was why it was so fucking annoying that Jamie was the one who nearly blew it—and the worst part? He didn’t even realize it.

It happened on match day.

The Richmond locker room buzzed with energy—the rhythmic stomping of boots, the sound of jerseys being pulled over heads, the usual banter filling the space as everyone geared up. The air smelled of sweat, fresh grass, and the faint sting of muscle rub. Jamie was on autopilot, tying his laces and nodding along to Dani’s enthusiastic rambling. His mind, however, kept drifting—back to Y/N’s smile, the warmth of her skin against his the night before, and the way she’d whispered his name like it was her favorite word.

Then, without thinking, Jamie stood, and walked straight over to Y/N who was focused on her iPad and paperwork, he slung an arm around her shoulders, pulled her into his side, and kissed the top of her head.

Right in front of the entire team.

“See you later, babe,” Jamie murmured, giving her a squeeze before heading toward the tunnel.

It wasn’t until he was halfway down the corridor that he realized the locker room had gone dead silent.

“What?” Jamie turned back, confused, only to find every single one of his teammates staring at him like he’d just announced he was quitting football to become a magician.

“Oi.” Isaac raised an eyebrow. “The fuck was that?”

Jamie blinked. “What was what?”

“That,” Sam said, gesturing toward Y/N, who stood frozen in place, eyes wide with shock staring at Jamie.

“What? I was just sayin’ bye to her, like always.”

“Saying bye to your girlfriend, or what?” Colin teased, his smirk spreading. “Mate, we all know you flirt with your Y/N a lot, but that was next-level boyfriend shit.”

“And she let you do that,” Jan added suspiciously. “She never lets you do that.”

Panic sparked in Jamie’s chest. Shit.

Y/N was still standing there, her cheeks flushed, lips parted slightly as if she was trying to process what the fuck had just happened.

And then, because Jamie was a fucking idiot, he shrugged and said, “Nah, mate, that’s just how we are. That's just our relationship, like uhhhm like friends.”

The team exploded.

“Since when?!”

“Oi, have you two actually been shagging this whole time?”

"Jamie, we are friends and you've never kissed me on the head like this!"

“Jamie Tartt, you dog! She your girl now?”

“It’s not even a big deal,” Jamie insisted, though his ears burned. But the warmth in his chest—the memory of Y/N’s soft, startled smile—refused to fade.

“Oh, it’s a big deal,” Sam grinned. “Because she didn’t stop you. That is not Y/N-like.”

Jamie opened his mouth, then shut it.

Shit.

Y/N hadn’t stopped him.

She was still looking at him, no outrage or teasing retort—just that same dumbfounded look, like he was the surprising part, not the team’s reaction.

And that did something to Jamie—something warm and solid that settled right in the center of his chest.

Which was exactly why he did it again.

The next morning, before training, he found her near the pitch, slung an arm around her shoulders, and pressed a quick kiss to the side of her head before jogging onto the field.

The next day, after a press event, he casually pulled her into a half-hug before walking away.

And the day after that—

“You’re doing it on purpose now,” Y/N accused, arms crossed as she cornered him outside the locker room.

“Dunno what you mean, babe.” Jamie grinned and tugged a piece of hair behind her ear.

“Yes, you do,” she huffed. “You keep touching me in front of everyone!”

“Yeah, and?” Jamie tilted his head, gaze softening. “You gonna stop me?”

Silence. Y/N opened her mouth, then closed it.

Jamie raised an eyebrow.

More silence.

“Shut up,” she muttered, cheeks heating.

His grin widened as he stepped closer, pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead. “Didn’t think so.”

By the end of the week, the team was losing their minds.

“Oi, Jamie!” Isaac shouted across the pitch during practice, cupping his hands around his mouth like a megaphone. “Your missus is watchin’! Better go give her a kiss, like you do all the time.”

Jamie didn’t even hesitate. He jogged past Y/N, threw her a quick wink, and called back, “Yeah? She likes what she sees.”

“Jesus Christ,” Colin muttered, shaking his head as Dani and Richard burst into laughter.

Later that day, as Jamie passed the conference room, he overheard Sam and Colin plotting some kind of intervention.

“Do you think he even realizes how obvious they are?”

“He knows,” Sam replied. “He just doesn’t care. And honestly? Respect.”

But Jamie did care.

It wasn’t just about teasing the team or sneaking touches when he could—it was about Y/N. The way she smiled when she thought no one was looking, the way her eyes softened whenever he got close.

Each small gesture felt like a promise: I see you. I choose you. Every single day.

And maybe—just maybe—he was tired of pretending. He wanted them to know. He wanted Y/N to know that he meant it. He wants their relationship. He wants her to be his girlfriend.

The next match day, Y/N stood by the locker room entrance, clipboard in hand, looking as composed as ever. But Jamie caught the way her fingers tapped nervously against the paper, the way her gaze flicked to him when she thought he wouldn’t notice.

He noticed.

So this time, when he walked past her, he didn’t just sling an arm around her shoulders.

He stopped.

Turned. Grabbed her head with both hands.

And kissed her.

Properly.

Right there, in front of the whole team, the coaching staff, and probably half the stadium staff.

The locker room erupted in shouts and laughter. Someone whistled. Dani clapped like he’d just watched the greatest love story of all time.

Y/N gasped against Jamie’s lips, her eyes wide as he pulled back, breathless and grinning.

“Jamie—” she started.

“Yeah, babe?”

“You’re such an idiot. I thought we wouldn't tell anyone.”

“I want everyone to know that I'm yours,” Jamie agreed, brushing his thumb gently over her cheek. “I’m your idiot.”

The team hollered.

"Fucking, finally!"

"Yeah about damn time, bruv."

And this time, Y/N didn’t argue.

Instead, she smiled—soft and certain and just a little bit in love.

And Jamie knew, without a doubt, that he’d never keep this secret again.

Not when it felt this good to be hers.

[axelsagewrites]

Could you do a Roy or Jamie fic where the reader gets hurt? Even something silly like getting hit in the head with a ball at practice or something! They’re super concerned and want to take care of them! I also love angst…sorry if it’s a stupid idea. No worries if you don’t want to write it 💜✨

Jamie Tartt*Practise Mishap

Pairing: Jamie x f!reader

Word count: 1291

Warnings: reader getting hit by a football (which hurts a lot btw from experience), Jamie feeling guilty, fluff

A/n: i love this idea btw ive been wanting to write something like this for a while but i made this more fluff than angst

Masterlist here

You’d never actually seen Jamie at practise. There was the occasional time where you dropped him off or picked him up after, but you never lingered since he needed to concentrate. However today Jamie in all his genius managed to forget his phone this morning.

“Wouldn’t have forgotten it if you hadn’t have distracted me love,” he teased, a smirk toying on his lips that made you smack his chest.

“Can you not?” you said, nodding to where the coaches stood only a couple feet away.

Of course, Roy heard. A loud groan came from him before he barked at Jamie, “Back on the field Tartt,”

“You staying to watch Jamie in action?” Ted asked, far more politely than Roy who was sulking at the suggestion.

You looked between him and Jamie who seemed to perk up at the idea, “Is that allowed?”

“I don’t see why not,”

“Maybe he’ll actually put some effort in,” Roy mumbled.

Jamie just rolled his eyes at Roy before giving you a quick kiss, “Get ready to see the king in action,” he said before running back on the field as you laughed.

“How do you stand him?” Roy grunted.

Truthfully you found Jamie’s cockiness annoyingly attractive, but you didn’t think Roy needed to hear that. “What can I say? I’m a saint,” you joked.

Even though the practise was interesting at first it was just boys kicking balls around a field and the illusion quickly worn off. That plus you were supposed to get a bunch of things done at home since it was a rare day off. You turned to Ted to tell him, “I’ll probably shoot off in a minute or two,” you said at the same time as someone yelled “Watch out!”

Roy tried to grab your arm, pulling you out the way, but not fast enough and a ball planted right in the middle of your chest, knocking you off your feet. You hit the ground with a thud and all the air was knocked out your lungs.

You heard Jamie shout your name, but you were too busy coughing up a storm and trying not to be sick. Roy and Ted had crouched down beside you, Beard shouting for Nate to run for the first aider. “Are you alright love?” Jamie asked, dropping to his knees beside you.

“I think- “your attempts to speak was interrupted by more coughing and the urge to be sick, “Ow,” you winced.

“What the fuck were you doing Colin?” you heard the footballers begin to argue as they all rushed to your side.

“I was trying to pass to Isaac! I didn’t know he didn’t see me,”

“When I said improve your kick, I didn’t mean kill Jamie’s bird,” Roy yelled at him, standing up.

Ted tried to calm him, but it was Jamie who spoke first, “Oi! The lot of you move it. you’re crowding her now piss off,” his anger washed off his face when he turned back to you, “C’mon love let’s get you some help,”

“I’m fine,” you winced as Jamie pulled you to your feet.

“No, you’re not now be quiet and let me help you,” he said as he helped you over to sit on a bench at the side. The first aider came and gave you a once over and said it was all good but to be careful. So, Jamie naturally made them triple check. Colin also came over, apologising a million and one times to which you assured him it was okay, and Jamie tried not to death glare him.

Some water and painkillers did help but you still weren’t feeling amazing. Ted walked over with a guilty smile on his face, “How we are doing over here folks?”

“Better now,” you smiled, hiding your wincing as best you could.

“I’m gonna kill Colin,” Jamie muttered.

You rolled your eyes, placing a hand over his, “It was an accident babe. Let’s just let it go, okay?” Jamie didn’t say anything, but you knew he wouldn’t. “But I should defiantly go now,”

“Well Rebecca gave me a call saying to tell Jamie to take the afternoon off and take care of you,” Ted said and before you could protest, he cut you off, “Its doctors orders, okay? Now scamp you too. And try take it easy, okay?”

You felt bad making Jamie miss the end of practise but right now football was the last thing on his mind. after dropping you off at his place and surrounding you with pillows and blankets Jamie went on a Tesco run for snacks.

When he got back you laughed when you saw the almost overflowing bag. “We’ve got enough to survive the winter,” you joked as he sat it down. “You’re spoiling me,”

“Never,” Jamie said with a bashful smile as he pulled out the flowers from behind his back, “Got ye these as well,”

“Aw Jamie,” you gushed, standing up to take them from him but you winced slightly as you did.

Instantly concern washed over his face as he grabbed your arm to steady you despite you not actually falling, “You alright love? I knew that women missed something. What hurts- “

“Jamie,” you interrupted him, cupping his face with your hands making him pause in his tracks, “I’m fine baby I swear. Are you?”

“Yeah, course I am,” he said, wrapping his arms around you, “I just don’t want you getting hurt and that. I just feel bad’s all,” he said, mumbling as he hugged you tighter.

You moved your head to rest on his shoulder, hugging him back, “But why?”

“You were there to see me and then you got hurt. I know how hard those balls can hit,” he said before sighing, “Its all my fault,” he mumbled making your heart break.

You pulled back only to pull him to sit on the couch next to you, placing the flowers on the coffee table, “It was an accident. It was no one’s fault,”

“It was colin’s fault,”

“It was no one’s fault,” you repeated, rolling your eyes with a small smile, “Now are you gonna sit and mope all day or are you gonna take care of me?”

Finally, a smile cracked onto his lips, “Thought it didn’t hurt anymore?”

“I lied,” you said, sinking back into the couch in a dramatic display, “I am wounded beyond belief. You’ll need to do everything I need,” you joked with a hand splayed across your head.

Jamie leaned down to press a gentle kiss to your forehead, “Don’t I always?” he smiled. “Want me to put those in some water?”

“Yes please,” you grinned as Jamie got up to sort out the flowers, but you called out before he could leave the room, “Can we have a movie night?”

“If that’s what the lady wants, that’s what the lady gets,” he grinned, “Just try not pick a total chick flick,” he added with a smirk that made you roll your eyes.

By the time he’d returned with drinks and a takeaway menu you already had 27 dresses queued up, “Oh c’mon,” Jamie protested as he dropped onto the couch beside you.

“Please, I’m injured,” you teased making him roll his eyes but finally agree. Despite his protests Jamie was more into the movie than you were and made you pinkie promise to pause it when he went to get the food when it arrived.

Four chick flicks and an unholy amount of food later you and Jamie were curled up on the couch under a pile of blankets. “Feeling better?” he murmured in your ear though you could hear from his voice he was already half asleep.

“Feeling perfect baby, thank you,”

“Anything for you,”

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[valdomarx]

Roy’s first month of managing Richmond, he still wakes up at 4 a.m. every morning. 

There’s no reason for it; work doesn’t start until 8 and he doesn't need to do extra training sessions with Jamie any more. But his body can’t break the habit, so he lies in bed and stares at the ceiling.

4 a.m. is when night is over but morning has not quite begun, when the world is quiet and distant and there is room for thoughts which would otherwise be unthought and feelings which would otherwise be unfelt.

-

4 a.m. is Jamie flinging open his front door with a big grin and a stupid head torch, saying, “Morning coach!” and bounding off with such enthusiasm that Roy has to scramble to keep up with him.

-

4 a.m. is the team finally calling it a night after celebrating a tough win, Isaac and Colin with an exhausted Sam between them, Jan Maas giggling, and Dani coming tearing out of the club yelling “Back to the hoteeeeeeeeeel!” and everyone running joyfully after him. Everyone except Jamie, who is leaning against the wall of the club and watching Roy with a hint of a smile.

“Fucking what?” Roy growls.

“You’re doing good. At this manager thing, I mean. The boys like it when you come celebrate with us.”

-

4 a.m. is sunrise over Richmond Park, the trees swaying in the breeze, deer leaping away in the distance, a blanket of silence muffling London’s ever-present hum of traffic. It is Jamie’s contentment as he runs, the way he springs forward to meet every step, with the rays of the rising sun painting streaks of red and gold through his hair.

-

4 a.m. is the time the team bus breaks down and strands them in a field in the middle of nowhere, and most of the lads are asleep in their seats but Roy finds Jamie sitting a little distance away on a grassy bank, looking up at the sky.

“Proper good view of the stars here, innit?”

Roy cranes his neck to take in the view of bright white points splashed across the darkness. He hums and lowers himself to sit next to Jamie.

“That one’s Rigel.” Jamie points. “And over there, that’s Betelgeuse. About to go supernova and everything. It’s gonna explode and take out everything around it, but after that, it’ll leave behind a cloud of dust n shit which’ll make new stars. Mental, right?”

Roy glances at him sideways. “How d’you know all this shit?”

Jamie shrugs one shoulder. “Me mum used to take me to the observatory as a kid. Said it was good for my cultural development. But I think I just liked the view.”

Jamie is staring up at the stars, but Roy is looking at Jamie’s face, soft, open, and full of wonder.

-

4 a.m. is a stupid time to be doing this. Roy stands in front of Jamie’s door and hesitates before knocking. Who the fuck shows up out of the blue at someone’s house at this hour? But he’d woken up early again and the world had seemed grating, like something important was missing, and almost against his will his feet had carried him here.

He knocks and, much quicker than he expects, the hallway light flicks on and footsteps thump down the stairs. Jamie opens the door fully dressed and wide awake, and beams.

“Morning coach! You want a cup of coffee?”

Roy blinks. “Aren’t you going to ask me why I’m here at this ridiculous time?”

Jamie's forehead wrinkles. "I'm sure you've got a good reason."

“I couldn’t sleep. Can’t sleep, I mean. I still wake up at 4 a.m. every morning."

Jamie nods. “Yeah. Me too.”

"I -" Roy squirms, hating feeling so visible. "I miss this."

Jamie looks up at him, surprised. 

"I miss you."

Jamie blushes, then fidgets with his sleeves. "You see me every day."

"It's not the same though. I miss starting my day with you."

"Oh." Jamie's cheeks are blotched with pink. "We could go for a run together? Do some training?'

It's tempting. Roy could say yes, and they could jog around the park, and it could be like it was before. A little piece of familiarity in a season of changes. 

But that's not what Roy is here for.

"I don't want to train," he says, and Jamie's face falls.

He steps closer, right up to the doorway, a mere few inches between them. He reaches out, stopping himself just before his hand lands on Jamie's chest. 

He looks up, meets Jamie's eye, makes sure he knows what Roy is offering. His hand meets Jamie's chest, solid and warm. "I want something else."

"Oh." Jamie scarcely moves, has to remind himself to breathe by the looks of it, and then one of those soft, beautiful 4 a.m. smiles spreads across his face and he steps back to open the door. "Then I guess you'd better come in."

[wufflesvetinari]

ok i'm going to write a ted lasso episode. whumpy but in the way canon can be whumpy. ready? here we go

it's early season 4. ted is back, with henry flying in soon to stay in richmond for a year. ted's set up his bedroom, stocked the apartment with Nerds (henry's favorite candy and a bit harder to find in the uk), even bought a goshdarn ps5. this is going to be great!

meanwhile, jamie has an extremely difficult session with dr. sharon where he ends up unexpectedly unpacking amsterdam for the first time. she did NOT know this was coming when he started telling her the plot of major motion picture the fault in our stars and she did NOT lead him into it as gracefully as she would have liked. you can tell that she's trying to end the session in a less raw place but it is NOT working because she lets him sob about stroopwafel for too long (in an attempt to end on positive memories with his mum) before realizing it's not about the fucking stroopwafel

when the hour is up he bolts out of there despite her best efforts. she drops her rock-solid professional neutrality, presses her forehead into her hands, and says "maybe fucked that one"

but you know what? jamie is handling it. he wakes up the next day, cleans all the snotty tissues off his bed, and comes up with a PLAN.

see, the thing is, he was WAY more stable when he was a prick. and he's practiced so hard NOT being a prick, so...it's overtraining, innit? he forgot to rest his emotion muscles so now he's raw everywhere and cries too much in therapy and wants to fucking scream all the time. so the obvious solution is to take a rest day from having emotions. easy!

and you know what makes it super easy to not have emotions? being a massive prick! it's fine. it's for his health!

MEANWHILE, ted wakes up to news that a storm's grounded henry's flight on a layover. and that something went wonky with his ticket so the airline couldn't immediately find his reservation/rebook him, which was super scary for henry bc the flight didn't have someone attending him the way they were supposed to. and as much as he wants to be with his dad it's already stressful to be leaving the US for a year

so everything's gone wrong, and he called ted like four times but ted slept through it. so by the time they connect henry's super stressed and kind of. yells at his dad for the first time.

so that's a bad start to the day! ted is so disoriented he brings the shopping bag of Nerds to work instead of his lunch

jamie shows up to the locker room having pasted his s1 body language onto his s3 self. he had meant to keep to himself today, but unfortunately his prick persona is an ENTIRE persona, and it doesn't super feel like a choice when he starts making snide comments and sneering at everyone. it feels a bit like one of those horror movies where you can't take the creepy devil mask off, EXCEPT IT DOESN'T, because feelings are absolutely not happening right now, which is! great! fine!

everyone is disturbed (except for ted who's caught in phone tree purgatory with british airways, sorting nerds by color on his desk). jamie insults colin's new threads, implies isaac can't handle the captaincy, turns down a high five from dani with a roll of his eyes, says hi to sam.......actually, he talks to sam completely normally. everyone makes vigorous questioning gestures at sam behind jamie's back. sam shrugs

it gets worse on the field, where the mood is already tense and darkens further when jamie refuses to help richard up after a tackle. beard and nate accuse roy of having given jamie the prick signal by accident somehow. roy denies it but starts second-guessing himself under scrutiny, trying to dissect whether jamie had interpreted the extra paprika he'd put in the curry when meal-prepping for jamie this week as a fucking. secret signal or something.

meanwhile ted is offering his life to british airways. indentured servitude. anything. he would take back 1776 on behalf of his people if he could. he is constantly on the verge of a panic attack and that REALLY bothers him, because it feels like all his progress is going up in smoke over henry hanging up on him

higgins finds him alone in his office gently thumping his head against the desk. "you know, you're such a great dad," ted tells him. "you've built a beautiful family. there's no...gnarly intergenerational emotional knots, no conflict in the House of Higgins. how do you do it?"

higgins blinks at him. "ted, dana knocked terry's tooth out last month. lindsay is a priest."

"well hey now, that's not inherently--"

"no, but it does suggest the presence of some interesting intergenerational emotional knots."

ted blinks up at him. higgins smiles; takes a seat. he says, "fathers and sons."

back outside, roy's starting to lose it. he's becoming honestly scared for jamie, but every time he tries to start a conversation jamie fucking...twists it into a fight, and roy fucking FALLS FOR IT like an IDIOT even though he knows better. because he's gotten out of practice dealing with Prick Jamie and also because jamie knows all of his weak spots now. it's freaking him the fuck out

and jamie is also starting to scream in his own head a little bit. like yeah he'd actively decided on Rest Day, but now he isn't sure how to stop doing Rest Day, and everybody is looking at him weird and that makes it worse, doesn't it, because his stupid lizard brain says he's under attack.

the prick persona is protective, so he keeps on pricking. ignores dr. sharon's phone call. ignores keeley's suspiciously-timed text about getting mimosas. ignores nate trying to give him a helpful-mean speech on the sidelines. ignores--well, no, he slaps sam on the back like usual.

can't be a dick to sam. it's sam, like.

roy mimes furious questions at sam, who's accepted this day for what it is and shrugs harder

ted's out on the sidelines by now, but he's still on the phone. he finally gets henry's ticket sorted, and calls him back in the airport. henry's in tears apologizing for yelling, but ted is just happy he's okay!! and he's going to be with him in london soon!! and...maybe ted didn't handle that perfectly, but it doesn't have to be some grand referendum on ted's parenting ability or his mental health. it's just a missed flight. slow progress is still progress. he's ok. they're both ok

practice ends. jamie slinks back into the locker room with everyone else. he changes into his street clothes lazily, dismissing any attempt to talk to him (ignores jan, ignores zoreaux, ignores roy, says "bye sam" - roy yells "fuck!" around the corner)

the locker room's almost empty. ted calls, "jamie, could you just stop by my office for one sec?"

jamie braces himself. ted fucking lasso is the last thing he needs. ted's the final boss of Rest Day. ted's going to say something that makes him feel fucking terrible about his behavior, and he's not even going to be able to apologize because he's fucking stuck like this, isn't he? like a car stuck in reverse. all he can do is go further back into prickdom: bluster his way through until ted gets fed up and sends him home.

he slams the door closed behind him. "so you got any pearls of wisdom for me, coach? some yoda shit? because i'm getting pretty tired of you pretending to be my fucking dad when we both know--"

"just wanted to give you these," ted says calmly, tossing him a ziploc bag. it's full of yellow Nerds. several little boxes' worth.

"what" jamie says

"i know you only like the yellow ones. needed something to do with my hands, so i sorted some out for you. we won't tell roy, ok? a little extra sugar never killed nobody. except i guess for diabetics, but, well--"

jamie stares at his bag of nerds. he stares harder. he bursts into tears and sinks onto the office floor.

after a beat, ted sits down there with him, waiting for him to get the words together--he babbles something about dr. sharon, and how bad today's been, and about how he really didn't mean to be awful and he thought he was over all this already--both over amsterdam and over treating his friends like this (ted has no idea what "amsterdam" means here but he nods sympathetically)

and he tells jamie about henry, and about how badly he panicked today, and about how progress isn't linear. and it's nice. and jamie gets a hug and puts himself together well enough to run out and catch up with the team for drinks

the rest of the coaches creep back into the office.

"how the fuck did you do that?" roy demands. he is texting jamie as he speaks. he will make him a big, bespoke breakfast tomorrow after their run and glower about it. he will fail to put any of these feelings into words. "how did you--fucking--manually override prick mode?"

nate's eyes are a little shiny for reasons that are NOT projection. "yeah, ted. i mean, things haven't always been smooth with you and jamie, but it's like you've...learned, over time, just what to say. i really do admire that about you."

"oh, well," ted says from the floor. he nods absently to himself, pushing his tongue around the inside of his cheek.

beard leans back in his chair. "you had no idea any of this was happening. you have no clue what we're talking about"

"nope,” ted says. "no, sir, i do not. just thought the kid would like some nerds"

"FUCK" roy says

[thetarttfuldickhead]

Premier League teams being approached to participate in an anti-bullying campaign and Jamie and Nate somewhat suprisingly volunteering to do a bit for Richmond together. And like that’s… nice?... but. Eh. Nate makes some sense, sure, even if his track record of treating others well has been – ahem – bumpy, but Jamie…

“Jamie bullied people,” Jan Maas is predictably the one to eventually point out while everyone else is thinking of how to bring that up. “Everybody knows that. I know that, and I wasn’t even on the team when it happened.”

“Yeah, I’m sorry, babe,” Keeley says apologetically. “It’s a really nice thought, but you do have a bit of a reputation and—“

“No, but that’s the point, babe,” Jamie says eagerly, not deterred in the slightest. “Nate and me, we know what it’s like being shit to others, yeah? So we figured, maybe we talk about that, like what made us start being shit, and what made us stop, and maybe it’ll help others figure out how to stop people from being shit? Or if you are a bully, how to fucking get your shit together and stop being a prick.”

“That’s right,” Nate agrees. He’s both very nervous and very keen. “We thought it might be a, a new perspective.” He and Jamie’s had some initially awkward but good conversations about that since Nate came back to Richmond (touching on how devastatingly easy it can be to slip from bullied to bully, the enabling silence or active support of the crowd, and learning new ways to feel big without making others feel small). Once they heard about the campaign they started talking about maybe taping such a conversation, put it out there, see if it can be of some use.

And Keeley asks them if they are sure (and Roy asks Jamie the same at some lenght) because that’s some pretty personal stuff they want to put out there, and there might be a backlash, but they’re both determined. “It’s taking responsibility, like,” Jamie notes. “Making amends, yeah?”

And of course there is some backlash, because when is there not in this loud and polyphonic world, but mostly their rather heartfelt and earnest talk is received very well.  

(This whole thing maybe also leads to Jamie and Sam actually talking about the stuff that went down when they both first came to Richmond, because for all that they’re great friends now, they haven’t ever really touched that. Hey, maybe Colin and Isaac do some soul-searching too! Lots of fun introspection for everyone!)

[coolpointsetta]

jamie: bad news. colin locked his keys in his locker before leaving training today

jamie: good news! we didn’t have to wait for ted to come back with the keys to open it

jamie: bad news. colin found it very concerning i know how to pick locks and tried to unlock my tragic backstory. i was too afraid to tell him that the reason i learned was because at 13, i realized picking locks is a skill used to impress hot people

jamie: good news! a hot person saw me do it

jamie: bad news. it was roy. and since he’s already seen me get a fear boner, cry at photos of baby isaac because he was so goddamn small and knows i can ride a unicycle, he will never think i’m cool. never. it’s too late.

[lassofics]

Black Eye

Word count: 980

Timeline: Post Season 3

Warnings: Heavily implied abuse

Summary: After a Man City match, Jamie comes to training with a black eye.

Notes: This fic was created and is being published as a part of #Whumpuary2025 !!

James Tartt Sr. had chosen to drive all the way down to Nelson Road. But not to see his son, of course; his son meant nothing to him. Man City was playing Richmond, and leave it to the old man to never miss one of his favorite team’s matches.

The match had been close, but Richmond had come out on top. The whole team had celebrated that night, going to their usual pub to get drunk and relish in their win.

And by the time Jamie Tartt had gone home for the night, everyone was too wasted to remember his prick father was in town — including Jamie himself.

He’d been hoping the black eye would heal before training on Monday, but no matter how much he’d iced it and rested it, the discoloration was still visible Monday morning. Knowing he didn’t have much of a choice, Jamie had just sighed and made his way to the training grounds.

Just as he’d suspected, the moment he walks into the locker room, his black eye catches the attention of his teammates — specifically Dani, who rushes over to him, looking far more concerned than he should.

“Amigo, what happened to your face?” he asks, staring up at Jamie like he’s a wounded puppy or some shit.

Jamie just waves a hand dismissively. “Fuckin’ bar fight, innit?”

Dani’s eyes widen slightly, and he puts a hand on Jamie’s shoulder. “When?”

“Yesterday,” Jamie replies, just a little too quickly. He adds, with a self-assured but falsified smirk, “you should see the other guy.”

Dani lets out a sigh and squeezes Jamie’s shoulder. “What are we always telling you, amigo? Don’t get into these fights.”

Jamie’s mind drifts back to that less-than-pleasant interaction with his father, and he grumbles, “I don’t start them.”

_________________

A few more teammates — Sam, Colin, and Isaac specifically — had asked the same question as Dani. And Jamie had given them the same answer. Other than a worried (and slightly suspicious) glance from Sam, everyone seemed to buy it.

Honestly, Jamie isn’t even thinking about it anymore. He’s just running his drills, joking around with the lads, and distracting himself from whatever pain he’s feeling — in that area or otherwise.

But once training ends and each player is a sweaty, exhausted mess, Roy calls him over.

“Oi, Tartt. Stay back a minute.”

Jamie, breathing heavily, wipes a bead of sweat from his forehead, then jogs up to Roy as the other lads walk off the pitch. “Yeah, Coach?”

Roy just gives him a look, one that makes Jamie’s cocky smile fade. Their eyes meet. Jamie swallows thickly and quickly averts his gaze.

“I don’t wanna talk about it.”

“You don’t have to.”

They stand there face to face for another moment, with Jamie shifting awkwardly on his feet. He could jog off to the locker room with the rest of the lads, but something’s keeping him glued in place.

“He was drunk,” he finally blurts out, as if that’s some kind of excuse. “A-and so was I. I-I mean, I had a lot of fucking drinks to celebrate.”

“I know.”

Their gazes meet again, and it’s hard for Jamie to maintain that eye contact. Roy’s looking at him with such intense protectiveness and an undeniable affection that almost feels tangible. It’s a lot for Jamie to handle, especially right now.

“I didn’t even fucking see him,” Roy grumbles out, briefly lowering his gaze — as if he feels guilty. For what, Jamie has no clue.

“He, uh…” Jamie lowers his gaze, too, suddenly finding the patch of grass by Roy’s feet to be incredibly interesting. “He was chugging down beers in my driveway. Waitin’ for me.”

Roy stares at him in disbelief. In his mind, that means it could’ve been prevented.

“Jamie, I… if I’d have known he was coming, I…”

“It’s fine,” Jamie counters quickly, holding up a hand and forcing a weak smile. ���Really. Barely even hurt. I’m tougher than I look, yeah?”

Roy just continues staring at him, his dark eyes practically piercing into Jamie’s skull.

“Is he still in town?”

Jamie bites his lower lip. He hadn’t even thought about that. “I… I don’t know. Haven’t seen him since he gave me this.” He gestures towards his black eye. “And that was right after the match on Saturday. He’s, uh… he’s probably home by now.”

Roy lets out a sharp exhale, then takes a step closer to Jamie, gazing down at him with an intensity that could make a grown man shiver. It almost has that effect on Jamie. Almost.

“The next time we play City, you’re fucking staying at mine,” he says firmly. It’s not an offer; it’s a demand. Jamie knows this.

“Yeah, okay,” he murmurs, lowering his gaze again.

There’s a brief moment of silence before Roy hesitantly asks, “did you know he was coming?”

Jamie bites his lip again. There’s no point in lying; Roy’s just gonna figure it out anyway. So, he nods.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

Jamie shrugs, still looking down. “It’s not like it matters.”

“Oi.” Roy suddenly grabs Jamie’s shoulder in a rough but loose grasp. “It fucking matters.”

Taking a breath, Jamie tries to hold back the tears that suddenly threaten to form. Roy’s voice is filled with a conviction that makes his head spin. He fucking cares.

“Thanks,” Jamie mumbles under his breath, finally lifting his head to look back at Roy. What he sees is that the older man’s expression has softened, and he’s now gazing at Jamie with something close to adoration. Jamie’s heart suddenly races.

But he doesn’t have time to dwell on it, because Roy just squeezes his shoulder and gives him a gentle push. “Go home, Tartt.”

Jamie nods, offering Roy a small smile — this one much more genuine — before jogging off the pitch.

[lavendergardenwrites]

Could you do a fluff Jamie Tartt imagine where the reader takes care of a drunk Jamie who forgets that they've been dating for months and thinks they're back in their crush phase after they and the boys went out celebrating a win?

Drunk in the Back of the Car (j.t. x fem!reader)

pairing: jamie tartt x fem!reader

word count: 654

warnings: language, alcohol

a/n: here you go love! i hope you like it and requests continue to be open!! (also first time writing for jamie so pls be kind lol)

The early 2000’s pop music blasting through the speakers was about to make your brain explode. The boys were celebrating a great victory in their match earlier that day and had all decided to crash this club that Colin had found. The flashing lights and sticky floors were slightly off-putting but the boys just wanted to celebrate and Jamie had insisted you came along too. Keeley and Roy were somewhere, probably at a table stuffed in a corner as Roy hated anyone spotting him. Isaac immediately bought a round of drinks upon entry and thus started the flow of alcohol. You were just glad that you and Jamie had agreed that you would drive home so he could properly celebrate. 

Speaking of your boyfriend, he was nowhere to be seen. A group of you had been gathered in front of the bar, chatting and drinking and dancing- though somewhat badly- and then as the night aged on and people found different things that piqued their interests, the group dispersed into smaller groups across the club. You were clumped together with Colin and Sam, chatting about the opposing team from the earlier match, while Colin interspersed some lyrics from the rap songs that were playing overhead. While laughing at Colin doing this weird dance while rapping, you felt a tap on your shoulder. 

“Your boyfriend is smashed,” Roy commented as he held Jamie under his arms. He was clearly having a hard time standing on his own and it seemed like Roy had dragged him from wherever they were previously stationed. 

“I’m fine grandad,” Jamie retorted, though slurred and he clearly had to put a lot of thought into the short sentence. 

“I’ll take him,” you smiled at Roy, silently thanking him for making sure Jamie got back to you. He nodded and passed Jamie over to you before he walked off, probably going back to find Keeley again. You grabbed one of Jamie’s arms and threw it over your shoulders, leaning his weight into you. “Looks like I’d better get this one home. Enjoy the rest of your night lads”. Sam and Colin say their goodbyes before going to find the other boys. 

“Woah, you better be careful there. I’ve got a girlfriend and I don’t think she’d like you touching me like this,” Jamie tries to stand up straighter to get away from you, but almost immediately tips back over. 

“I am your girlfriend,” you laugh. 

“No way,” Jamie says quietly, in an ‘I can’t believe it’ type of way. 

“Come on Jams, let’s get you home”. 

Despite the copious amounts of effort it took to get Jamie through your front door- which included him almost throwing up in the back seat of your car- you finally got him in bed in a semi-comfortable position. Once you were sure he wasn’t going to throw up in the bed, at least long enough for you to get ready for bed, you headed to the bathroom to take your makeup off and change out of your clubbing outfit. 

“Y/N?” You heard Jamie call from the bed. 

“Yes love?” you question, sticking your head out of the bathroom doorway. 

“How’d you get into my house?” 

“I have a key Jams,” you laugh. 

“Did I give you that?” He tilts his head. 

“How sloshed did you get Jamie?” You move closer to him, sitting down next to him on the bed. 

“Oh my god I’ve got Y/N in my bed,” he whispers more to himself. 

“I’ve been sharing a bed with you for the past two months, love,” you remind him, moving his hair away from his sticky forehead. 

“Holy shit, no way,” he mutters before passing out again. You laugh at his antics and go back to the bathroom, finishing your nighttime routine before grabbing some water and aspirin for the morning. You were so going to make fun of him tomorrow for this.

[its-time-to-write]

Hi there!! I’m the anon that requested the wedding date fic, which was absolutely fabulous, and I was wondering if you’d be willing to write about Jamie and reader’s wedding? It doesn’t need to be a continuation of that fic (and obviously you don’t need to write it if you’re not vibing with it!) I just thought it could be cute 💚

it took me a while to vibe with it, but I finally did!! Thanks for the request!

right words at the right time

“Don’t bite your nails!” your sister shrieks from across the room. You whip your hand out of your mouth. 

“I wasn’t,” you reply.

She raises an eyebrow. “Sure. Sure you weren’t. Here, eat something instead.”

“I can’t,” you say. “I’m too nervous. What if something goes wrong?”

“Like what?” Keeley asks from her position by the mirror. She slicks back a flyaway hair and dabs at the corner of her mouth.

“I dunno, what if- what if I trip? What if Ted forgets what he’s supposed to say? What if Jamie says no?”

Your sister and Keeley exchange a look.

“He’s the one who asked you,” Rebecca says before either of them can can snark back at you.

You’re still not convinced. “What if he’s changed his mind?” you ask worriedly.

Your sister bangs her head against the wall. You weren’t this nervous last night when you were out partying with the girls. None of the women in the room are quite sure what’s come over you.

“He hasn’t changed his mind,” Rebecca says in a placating tone. “Look at your hand. See that diamond? Does that look like something Jamie would forget about?”

“No,” you reply weakly. “But what if he wants it back? Or remembers that he’s famous and rich and I literally am neither of those things. I have a face that was made for the radio!”

“Oh my god,” you sister says, throwing her hands in the air. “He’s marrying you. Please calm the fuck down. You literally have to walk down the aisle in half an hour.”

Your nail is in your mouth again so Keeley reaches up and smacks it away.

She says, “Babes, I love you to fucking pieces, but you seriously need to calm down, yeah? It’s alright.”

There’s a knock on the door and you jump. 

“Almost ready?” Ted asks. “The boys are getting mighty anxious out there.”

‘The boys’ he’s referring to are the entirety of AFC Richmond, who may have been the reason this marriage is even happening. After all, it was Colin who swore he met the perfect person for Jamie and Dani who convinced you to go on a blind date. Sam provided the venue (obviously) and Isaac, Declan, and Richard made sure Jamie didn’t wear something stupid.

Rebecca opens the door a crack. “She’s getting mighty anxious in here.”

Ted frowns. “Pre-wedding jitters are normal, but you got nothing to worry about, darlin’. Two hundred of your closest friends and family are all here to support you on your big day.”

You blow out a breath. “More like thirty of my closest friends and family. The rest are for Jamie. Fuck’s sake, Ted, what am I doing? I shouldn’t be here. Do you know how much money he spent on this fucking wedding? It’s more than I make in two years. Don’t get me wrong, it’s literally my dream, but I just feel like I’m not going to measure up. He’s going to get bored of me sooner or later.”

Ted tilts his head and you feel oddly comforted under his scrutinizing gaze. “Alright, come with me,” he says after a moment of deliberation. “Everyone’s outside, I’m just gonna sneak you down the hall a little bit. You trust me?”

You nod and take his proffered arm. Your sister breathes, “Thank fuck,” as you leave, and you’re pretty sure you hear Keeley echo the sentiment.

Ted leads you to a door at the end of the hall and motions for you to stand against the wall, just out of sight. He knocks. 

“Jamie? You got a minute?”

The door opens and you clamp a hand over your mouth to keep from making noise. 

“Your girl’s having a bit of a pre-marital fright, so I brought her down to talk to ya. If you just sit down and stick your hand out the door, she can grab it and you won’t see her before you’re supposed to.”

Jamie says, “Sounds good, coach,” and his head is replaced by an arm. You stare at it for a minute before Ted motions you to grab Jamie’s hand. You sit down, back against the wall, and reach for Jamie who gives you a reassuring squeeze.

“Christ love, your hands are fucking sweaty,” he says and you can tell by his voice that he’s smiling.

Something about hearing him makes tears well up, and you sniff.

“Babe, what’s wrong?” Jamie asks. “You crying because you’re so happy your husband is mad fit and mad rich?”

You say, “No. Well, kind of,” and it’s all Jamie can do not to break the stupid fucking tradition of not seeing the bride before she walks down the aisle.

“Tell me,” he says softly. Ted hands you a tissue and then retreats back where he came from.

You sniff. “I’m really excited to marry you. I really fucking am. It’s just- you’re so much, you know? It’s one of the things I love about you. And I’m not, not really. I’m just me, and I don’t want you to realize that you can do better.”

Jamie maneuvers your hand so he can press a kiss to your knuckles.

“You worry too much,” he says. “We’re doing this shit, for better or for worse, yeah? How do I know you won’t realize you can do better than me? Dump me for some fit nerd.”

“You are a fit nerd,” you laugh through tears. “Football nerd, but still a nerd.”

Jamie snorts. “Shit babe, you know how to make a bloke feel special.”

You’re both silent for a minute, taking comfort in the fact that the love of your life is on the other side of the door.

The moment is broken by Keeley’s appearance. 

“Time to go back into hiding, babe,” she says.

You sigh, and Jamie squeezes your hand one more time. “See you in a bit, love,” he says.

Keeley helps you off the floor and back down to the room.

“All good?” she asks. 

“All good,” you reply.

[benedictscanvas]

be still, my foolish heart [5] - jamie tartt x reader

pairing: jamie tartt x fem!reader

word count: 3.1k

series warnings: lots of language throughout, some allusions to smut but nothing explicit, a LOT of fucking fluff mostly ngl

a/n: finally! sorry it's a couple days late, but the busy week is over and we are back at it. i really enjoyed writing this one. did a poll to find out how people feel about reader pov, so there may be a few reader pov bits coming your way soon, just so we can see whether she's smitten too... <3

series summary:��when jamie gets called up to the england team for the first time, he’s terrified. enter you, all smiles and swearing, and suddenly his only fear is falling head over boots for you.

previous chapter | series masterlist

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chapter five - if you got love to get done

The crowd is roaring as he walks out of the tunnel, squinting a little in the sudden wash of sunlight that hits him. The music is loud and he feels himself rising taller, pushing his shoulders back, chest forward as he realises the moment he’s having. It doesn’t matter one bit that he’s got a bib on, that he’s taking a sharp right turn and heading straight for the bench.

He’ll be subbed on at 60, he’s sure. Confident, even. The last few days in training, he’d played some of the best football he could remember playing. His phone was filled with encouraging messages that morning, from the team, from the coaches, from practically everyone that knew him. The only one he’d replied to so far was his mum, but he was looking forward to going through them properly later.

Earlier, he’d found himself disappointed not to see you at breakfast, but now here you were as he headed towards his seat on the bench, just one row behind him with a camera in your hand. You grin when you see him, and hold up your camera questioningly. He plays along as he stares off into the distance pensively, pouting and sharpening his jawline. You giggle as you take a few snaps and he's eager to sit down in front of you.

“I didn’t know you’d be here,” Jamie said, swivelling in his seat to chat to you despite the funny look from Gondo beside him, “I mean, not at the match but, y’ know…”

“Sat on the bench?” you asked and he nodded, “Yeah, I had to fight to be here, honestly. But there’s nowhere else I can get the right angles for the socials. At least, that’s what I told them.”

He grinned right back, turning even further in his seat so the two of you were face to face, but then the first notes of the national anthem started playing and you whacked his shoulder frantically as the two of you tried to stand up quickly. Even during the anthem, he risked a glance back at you and you glared at him until he turned back around, but he couldn’t keep the smile from his face as he sang.

“You’ll get me fucking fired!” you hiss from behind your hand when the two of you are able to sit back down again, “They’ve already asked me why you’ve been in so much of the content recently.”

“What did y’ say?”

“That you’re the only idiot who says yes to all my stupid ideas.”

His shoulders slump at that description, but he’s quick to bounce back when you start laughing at him. You rest a hand on your shoulder as you lean in, still keeping a hand over your mouth to stop any pesky press doing any lip reading.

“I couldn’t tell them you’re just my favourite, could I?” and he could swear his heart stops, because that almost sounds like flirting. He stares up at you, wide-eyed and helpless until you continue, “Not supposed to tell anyone I’m Richmond, remember?”

Right. Richmond. That was why he was your favourite, because he’s the only Richmond player who’s fucking here. What if Roy was here? Or Isaac, or Colin, or Bumbercatch? It suddenly occurred to him that even if he was your favourite here, you might have a very long list of Richmond players you liked more than him. The thought settles and he can feel his uneasiness in his stomach.

He doesn’t respond before he turns back around to watch kick off, just smiles at you instead and hopes that his lack of reply isn’t too rude. Your hand lets go of his shoulder after a moment or two, and he’s absolutely kicking himself but then the match starts and he can’t think about it anymore.

It’s an easy opener, even if Gareth insisted that they couldn’t become complacent. England were 2-0 up within around 10 minutes with a tap-in and a penalty from King, and from there seemed content to coast to half time with the majority of the possession. Jamie cheered for both goals wildly on the sidelines with the rest of his teammates and then jogged down into the tunnel quickly when the halftime whistle blew.

The team talk was nothing he hadn’t heard before. Gareth was hardly going to change tactics now, so once he’d got past the main parts, he turned his mind to you, just for a few minutes. He probably wasn’t your favourite player at Richmond. And it shouldn’t matter to him, he knows that, but it does. The pit in his stomach that the thought has caused just won’t go away.

He could ask you, but that would be ridiculous. Would make him seem ridiculous. This was definitely getting out of hand, because he had been so sure he could just be friends with you and be happy about it but- you were just so great. The two of you had spent the last four days in Italy practically joined at the hip. Filming and laughing and crying-while-laughing.

All the while he’d been promising himself not to think about you in any way that wasn’t friendly. All the while he’d been lying to himself. You smile at him, and he feels like he’s spinning around on a fucking hill like in that movie Roy had made him watch about a month ago.

The team is all clapping, so he snaps himself out of it and claps too as everyone files out of the room. He’s so frustrated with himself for thinking about this now - it isn’t the time. So he decides - after the match, he can think about it as much as he likes. Come up with a proper plan to rid himself of this once and for all, so you can get on as well as you do without him worrying about silly things like being your favourite Richmond player.

When he arrives back to his seat on the bench and flops down into it, he feels a delicate tap on his shoulder and turns to see you, still smiling that infuriating smile.

“Hey, you’re very tense,” you say teasingly with a light poke to his shoulder, “Whole first half without talking isn’t very Jamie Tartt of you. Something I said?”

He likes to think he can read you pretty well sometimes, and he’s positive he can see your smile falter as you ask. So he did come off rude when he turned around and stopped talking to you. Again, he’s kicking himself.

“No! No, love, ‘course not,” he tries to reassure you, “I’m just nervous, honestly. Y’ mentioned Richmond and I know that I’m…y’ know. I’m good there. Jus’ wonderin’ if I’ll be any good here.”

He wasn’t wondering. He’s been great in training and he’s fishing for compliments, he knows it. The thought makes him feel like a prick again.

“Come on. You’re joking, right?”

He doesn’t expect that particular response, especially not the thinly veiled amusement on your face.

“Uh- no? Don’t think so.”

“I’ve watched you in training. You’re feeling it, I know it. I know you a bit by now. So why are you lying?”

It was the most straightforward you’d ever been and he had no idea what to do with it. But Gareth was calling his name, and Gondo elbowed him in the ribs hard.

“You’re up, bro. Go and warm up!”

Jamie was quick to react, glancing back at you a few times but soon getting his head in the game. He pushes your conversation, your words, right to the back of his mind as he sidesteps along the side of the pitch, then moves through the exercises he usually did on autopilot.

He hadn’t even noticed it was 60 minutes through the game. At least he’d been right about one thing - he was getting subbed on.

He ran to grab his shirt as one of the assistant coaches told the fourth official that England would be making a change. You were nearby again and you grinned at him when he was close enough.

“Don’t worry about it,” you said loudly, and he knew what you were talking about, “Just go and fucking smash it, Jamie!”

He nods. Yeah, he’s gonna fucking smash it.

He tears off his bib and stands ready on the touch line, proud to be wearing Sam’s number on his back. He knows that Sam should be here in Italy playing for his country as he deserved, and it was only a small tribute, but he hoped it would make some kind of statement. King runs over to him, slaps his hands against Jamie’s and that’s it - he’s running onto the pitch with a new spring in his step.

He’s an England player. He’s done it. Lifelong dream achieved.

Around ten minutes into his debut, he sees Rife making a delicious run down the right side and he hooks his foot around the ball to send a pass forward, soaring over the heads of the defenders and landing right on Rife’s foot. He holds his breath as Rife shoots, but the net bulges soon after and now he’s got an assist too.

It’s overwhelming.

Still, Rife is running over to jump on him and he lets him, then Wire, then practically the whole team. At the bottom of the pile, Jamie spares a thought for the Jamie of a few years ago, the Jamie for whom goals were everything and assists meant nothing. How sad it would have been to miss out on this feeling of helping his team, his country, towards an emphatic win.

And it was a fucking excellent assist, too.

The last ten minutes are uneventful. Jamie knows he’s playing well and remembers your words - you’re feeling it. You’ve summed it up perfectly. His feel of the ball, his feel for his teammates and their positions, its all coming together. At the final whistle, he lets out a roar, full of all the anxious anticipation that went into this moment then takes the nearest player to him in a huge bear hug.

The coaches and rest of the team walk out onto the pitch, shaking hands and clapping each other on the back. Jamie makes a point to shake as many opposition players’ hands as he can before he moves on to celebrating with his teammates. Almost as soon as he’s ready to jog over to Rife to pick him up, however, he spots you, filming Rife on your phone.

Maybe he isn’t your favourite Richmond player. But you said he was your favourite around here and he’s going to take that and run with it.

“Y/N! Hey!”

You look round as soon as he calls and put your phone away instantly. He’s not sure you’ve even finished with Rife. Either way, you’re sprinting up to him and you’ve got him locked in the tightest of hugs before he knows it. Despite how unexpected it is, it doesn’t take him long to wind his arms around you in return because it’s the easiest thing in the world.

You pull back, positively beaming.

“That assist, Jamie! I fucking knew you were feeling it, that was insane!”

“It were pretty good, weren’t it?” he says proudly, pulling you back into his arms for one hug while he still can, grateful when you let him. He leans back this time, watching you with a quirked eyebrow, “You know me quite well, huh?”

If he didn’t know any better, he’d think you looked flustered.

“Didn’t know you were going to do that, though, did I? Magic, that was,” you’re still heaping praise on him, and there’s a part of him that wants to tell you to go on, but he doesn’t want to push it. He also doesn’t want any awkwardness between the two of you, but right now he thinks he could do anything, so he takes a chance.

“Earlier, you said I was your favourite because I’m Richmond and it jus’ felt shit,” he admits, all in a rush, “That’s not your fault, I know. I never thought about you likin’ Richmond in general before. Instead of-“

Instead of just me. Instead of just liking me, for who I am and not what team I play for. Tell me I’m your favourite Richmond player and I’ll stop being a fucking prick.

He keeps most of what he’s thinking to himself, because he feels like he’s probably already said too much. In his sessions with Doctor Sharon so far, she’s been so encouraging of his newfound honesty, both with others and with himself. She’d want him to ‘communicate his feelings’ with you, and he wasn’t sure if this was the best way of doing that, but it had happened now. He’d already said it.

You still had your hands on his arms, having pulled them back from their tight squeeze around his neck and shoulders. You were looking at him thoughtfully, and he was struck by how stupid he was when he thought he could read you earlier - you were impossible to read sometimes.

After what feels like years, you press your lips together like you’re suppressing a grin and squeeze his biceps.

“Jamie…” you begin, voice as soft as it’s ever been, despite the still deafening roar of the crowd. He’d practically forgotten he’s still stood on a football pitch, “Come on. You’re joking, right?”

Same words as earlier. His heart sinks.

“I swear, Y/N, I’m not lying this time, that’s actually why I got all mardy-”

“You have to be joking,” you repeat, interrupting him slowly, “Because you must know you’re my favourite player everywhere.”

He isn’t sure whether to sigh in pure relief or start panting for breath. You’re looking at him so softly, there’s almost shyness there. He’s never seen you shy, ever. Certainly not around anyone else.

“You’ve admitted something, so I will too. Just to be fair,” you smile easily, still holding him by the arms. He wonders if he could put his hands back on your waist, but he can’t move a muscle in case you move away from him, “I’ve never been nervous around football players. I work with them everyday, you know? And then you walk up to training that first day, and you don’t hear me when I ask my question, and I felt nervous. Stupid nervous.”

“…because you’re a Richmond fan?”

“No, Jamie,” you say, but you don’t say why you were nervous, you just fucking stare at him. His heart is begging him to lean in and kiss you silly, “Maybe it was the hair.”

You reach up to gently tug on one of the strands that falls in front of his face from his headband. He’s struggling to find his voice.

“I-” he has to cough to get his words back, “I do have good hair.”

“Great hair, even,” you smirk, and he can see you biting your lip, “The rest of you isn’t too bad either, I guess. If you’re into that kinda thing.”

Oh. Oh.

You’re flirting with him.

This is new. He’s oblivious and his processing time might be longer than others, but you’ve never blatantly flirted with him before. He’d know, because he’s been desperate for you to flirt with him for a few weeks now. Basically since he met you. Whether it’s playful or not, it’s a new development that has him floating.

This, he can do. Flirting. He’s good at this.

“And what kinda thing would that be?” he says, tilting his head and smirking right back at you. All his terror at your previous sincerity falls away and is replaced by a need to match you quip for quip. He can think about the fact that he’s your favourite player everywhere when he sits in his hotel room grinning in the mirror later.

“You know,” you rock back and forth on your heels, “The whole fit footballer thing. Abs and shit. It’s a very particular type.”

So you had looked at him at the pool party. It shouldn’t have made him so giddy. You just called him fit. He could melt into a puddle at your feet if he wasn’t so determined to make you giddy in return.

“And is it your type?”

You make a show of thinking about it in a way that shoots sparks all the way down Jamie’s spine. He’s so glad you can’t hear his heartbeat like he can, roaring in his ears.

“Dunno. I like my guys with enough hair gel to set their head alight, you know?”

A dig at his look from a few years ago. Of course you’d find a way to mention that without stopping that tone you’d taken on out of nowhere. The tone that was disarming and charming and downright hot.

“You know, I think I know a guy like that,” he said, pretending to search for someone over your head, “You don’t happen to know any mad pretty PR women I could point him to?”

The grin that took over you, bloomed across your whole face, was exactly what he’d been hoping for, finally finding the opening in the conversation to compliment you right back. You move closer to him and he feels himself let out a tiny gasp, but all you do is tuck yourself into his side, winding an arm around his waist. He lets his own wrap around your shoulders as the two of you start walking over to clap the England fans in the corner.

“I’ll keep you posted,” you say, looking up at him, all sweetness. He knows you aren’t, though, because your free hand comes to rest on his stomach as you look up at him. He feels every ab tighten under your touch despite his best efforts, “Guess we’ll just have to keep looking, hm?”

“Yeah,” he agrees, grinning down at you as he tugs you further into him, “If your mate Tiff ever joins us out here, she could be a good option for him, right?”

You push yourself away from him, and its the last thing he wanted. You walk backwards away from him for a few seconds, then shake your head at him with a smile and run to catch up with the rest of the team.

He’s left a little bit awestruck in your wake. He jumps when someone claps him on the back, then turns to see a very smug Rife.

“That bad?”

Jamie huffs out a half-laugh as his eyes go back to following you, watching you congratulate some of the coaches. There’s a little bit of jealousy in his chest even watching you talk with them, and he hates it.

“That bad,” he confirms, still staring at you from afar, “That fucking bad.”

[nameless-jamie]

BABY MUM

Glimpse Into the Future - Jamie Tartt x fem!PA reader

Masterlist

TW: cursing, suggestive talk

“Oi, oi, oi, look who’s here, the baby mum!”

Dani Rojas was the first to notice Y/N stepping onto the pitch, her round belly on full display beneath her coat. Her belly was now very prominent, as she was further along in the pregnancy.

Within seconds, training was completely forgotten as the team abandoned their drills and jogged over.

Colin let out a low whistle. “Bloody hell, look at you, mama!”

“She’s even bigger than last week,” Isaac added, shaking his head in amazement.

Before Y/N could say anything, Sam stepped forward, nudging Isaac. “You don’t say it like that.” He turned to Y/N with a warm smile. “You look incredible. You embody the pure beauty of a woman carrying life.”

"Thank you, sweetheart," She huffed out a laugh. “Oi, you lot act like I’ve been gone for months.”

“We missed you,” Dani said earnestly, practically bouncing on his feet. “And the baby! How is little Jamie?”

Y/N groaned. “I told you all, we are not calling it that.”

“You say that now,” Jan chimed in. “But it is only a matter of time.”

"Can we touch the belly, Y/N?" Dani asked excitedly, and the boys nodded furiously, a damn line building in front of her.

Before she could argue, a familiar voice cut through the group.

“Alright, what’s all this, then?”

Jamie jogged over, sweat glistening on his brow, his brows raised as he took in the sight of his teammates completely abandoning training. His eyes flicked to Y/N, immediately softening when he saw her.

“Babe,” he murmured, stepping closer. “What’re you doin’ here? You should be restin’.”

She rolled her eyes. “I’m pregnant, Jamie, not dying.”

“Yeah, yeah, but still.” His hands instinctively found their place on her belly. “Baby kickin’ today?”

“Like a little footballer,” she admitted.

Jamie grinned, rubbing slow circles over her stomach. “That’s my kid.”

The team collectively melted.

“Mate, you’re gonna be such a soft dad,” Colin teased.

“Shut up,” Jamie muttered, though he didn’t look the least bit annoyed. If anything, he looked proud—completely enamored with the fact that his baby was growing inside her.

“Alright, alright,” Roy’s gruff voice finally broke through. “Are we trainin’ today or throwin’ a fuckin’ baby shower?”

The team grumbled but didn’t move from their little line. All of them were determined to touch Y/N's growing baby belly. The baby might even kick!

Sam crossed his arms. “Roy, you wouldn’t say that if you saw how cute she looks. Pregnant Y/N is our Roman Empire.”

Roy scoffed. “I don’t give a shit about—” His gaze landed on Y/N’s round belly, and his face did something absolutely un-Roy-like. His scowl softened, his lips twitching like he was trying to fight back a smirk.

Y/N blinked in surprise. “Roy Kent… are you going soft on me? Just because I'm fucking pregnant?”

Roy grumbled under his breath before exhaling heavily. “Nah. But… I guess you look alright or whatever. Proper pregnant now.”

Jamie let out a loud laugh. “Mate, just admit you think she looks adorable. And she was proper pregnant before too, if I do something I do it proper and makin' her pregnant, fuck, I did that—”

Roy’s glare sharpened. “Fuck off.” But then, before anyone could say anything else, he turned back to Y/N and cleared his throat. “You, uh… you doin’ okay?”

Her chest warmed. “Yeah, Roy. I’m okay. Baby's kickin' goals in there just like her godfather.”

Roy grunted, a smile breaking out on his face. “Good. You need anything, you tell me.”

The team lost it.

“Oi, did Roy just offer to help?”

“Is this a fever dream?”

“Someone write this down.”

Roy groaned. “Oh, fuck off.” But there was no real heat behind it, and when Y/N beamed at him, he rolled his eyes and muttered, “You’re part of the team, alright? That means we look after you.”

A lump formed in her throat. She hadn’t expected this—not the attention, not the overwhelming warmth, not the way these ridiculous, talented, wonderful men had completely accepted her into their family.

Sam suddenly crouched, pressing his hands to her belly. “Little one, this is your Uncle Sam. I cannot wait to meet you.”

Dani joined immediately, kneeling beside him. “And Uncle Dani!”

The rest of the boys started arguing because apparently 'Sam skipped the line' and 'it wasn't even their turn'.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” Roy muttered.

“You’re all bloody obsessed,” Jamie said, shaking his head—but even as he rolled his eyes, his expression was unbearably soft.

“Of course we are,” Colin said simply. “It’s you two.”

Jamie frowned. “What d’you mean?”

Sam stood, grinning. “Mate. You’ve been in love with her forever.”

Jamie shifted, rubbing the back of his neck. “Nah, I mean—”

Y/N smirked. “Jamie, be fuckin' for real, yeah?”

He sighed. “Alright, yeah.” He tugged Y/N closer, pressing a kiss to her temple. “I have....but you've been to. You kissed me first after all!"

"On freaking accident!!!" Y/N argued with her boyfriend.

Jan clapped his hands. “We all knew this was coming! We even placed bets.”

Y/N gasped. “You bet on us?”

“Of course,” Dani said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “It was only a matter of time.”

Jamie sighed dramatically. “If I had known, I would’ve asked her out sooner. Could've joined the bets and made a fuckton of money.”

Y/N laughed, leaning into him, her hand settling over his on her belly. “Well, I guess it’s a good thing you did ask me out.”

The boys grinned.

Roy groaned.

And Jamie?

He just looked at her, his hand splayed over her belly, his heart completely full.

This was his family.

And he wouldn’t change a thing.

[ofstarsandvibranium]

if it’s not too much to ask (🥺) could you do a reader who’s best friends with Colin and he teases her about her crush on Jamie and tries to get them together? If not, NO WORRIES. Your stuff is so 🥰

(this ended up being a lot longer than I intended...whoops!)

You and Colin grew up together. You were two peas in a pod, the thickest of thieves. You knew everything about each other. You were the first person he told when he realized he was gay. He was the first person you told after you had your first kiss. You're each other's platonic soulmates.

As such, you're always trying to help each other in regards to your dating lives. When he told you about Michael, you were excited to see your best friend finally found his person. Michael was amazing and you two clicked instantly, to Colin's relief.

Your love life? Weeeell...

Colin and Michael were expecting you since twenty minutes prior, you texted them: THIS DATE SUCKS. IM COMING OVER.

So you're now sitting on Colin's couch in between the couple.

"So what happened this time?" Colin asks.

"All he talked about was football, specifically West Ham," that got Colin groaning, "He also looked my Instagram up and saw the pictures of you and I. Asked if we dated in the past, if you'd be able to get him tickets to the next Richmond versus West Ham game."

"You know you can archive the pictures of us so people-"

"No. I'd never do that to you, Col. It's like I'm ashamed of you and I'm not."

Colin gives a small smile and nod of appreciation, "Thanks, babe."

"Maybe you can set her up with one of your teammates," Michael suggests.

A lightbulb went off in Colin's head and you immediately said, "Don't."

"He's available."

"It'll be weird!"

"No, it won't!"

"Isn't he a dickhead?"

"Not as much anymore!"

Michael waved in front of you and Colin, "What's going on?"

You groan, hiding your face in your hands, "Kill me."

Colin snickers, "Y/N's celebrity crush before I got into the league was Jamie Tartt. When she found out he was being lent to Richmond, she freaked out. Made a complete fool of herself by tripping in front of him and getting a bloody nose."

"Ooohh. That's pretty bad." Michael says, wincing.

"It was so mortifying!" you cry out, "There's no way he'd want to date me after that disaster!"

"He might not even remember it," Colin says reassuringly.

"I don't want to risk it," you turn to Michael, "Michael, tell him it's a bad idea."

Michael looks to his boyfriend, "Do you vouch for Jamie?"

Colin nods, "I do, actually. He's completely turned his act around. He can still be a prick sometimes, but it's not as bad as it was when he first joined the team."

Michael focuses back on you, "You should go for it."

You immediately stand up, "Nope. I'm not making myself out to be a fool again. No thanks! I'm out!"

_____________________

"Hey, Jamie," Colin rushes up to Jamie as he exits his car.

Closing the door behind him, Jamie responds, "Yeah, mate?"

"You're not seeing anyone right?"

"No," Jamie replies with furrowed brows, look of confusion.

"My best friend, Y/N, she's beautiful, funny, and smart and think you and her would be a great match." Colin holds out his phone, showing Jamie a really great candid picture of you that he took when you two went to dinner months ago.

Jamie nods at the picture. You were, indeed, very beautiful. The way the sun hit your skin made you look angelic, "She's...nice."

Colin rolls his eyes, "One date. That's all I ask."

"Why me though?" Jamie still looks a bit confused, "Why not Bumbercatch or Isaac?"

"I just think you and Y/N would fit really well. She's been having a rough time with dating so I figured you'd show her how she should be treated."

To be fair, Jamie was thinking about getting back into the dating scene. He finally got over Keeley, accepting that they'd just be better off as friends. You seemed like a decent person, from the few things Colin mentioned. Might as well, right?

"Fuck it. Sure."

Colin fist bumped the air, "Yes! You won't regret it. I'll make the plans. You just show up."

"Yeah, yeah, alright."

_______________

You show up to Ola's, a place you've been to before. As soon as you walk in, Colin and Michael are there.

"I need to preface this and say you can't be mad at me," Colin says.

You narrow your eyes at him, "What did you do?"

"It'll be fine. I promise. Michael and I will be on the other side of the restaurant if you need anything, but you won't, because it'll be great."

"But if it goes wrong, it was definitely all his doing," Michael says, pointing to Colin.

Colin grimaces, "Thanks, babe." He takes your hand and leads you towards the back corner where Jamie fucking Tartt was sitting.

You immediately give Colin a look and he pushes you towards him, murmuring, "It'll be fine!"

You slowly approach the table and Jamie looks up, giving you a polite smile as he pockets his phone.

"Hi, I'm Jamie," he offers his hand out.

"I know," you say as you shake his hand, "I'm so sorry Colin roped you into this. You really don't have to be here if you don't want to."

He shrugs, "It's fine. Been meanin' to get back into the dating game. Besides, if things don't really work out, we get free dinner and drinks out of it, yeah?"

Your brows shot up, "Colin's paying?"

Jamie nods, "He said he would."

You smirk and gesturing for a server. He smiles at you, "Would you like to start with drinks?"

You nod, "Yes, we'll have your most expensive bottle please."

It's now Jamie's brows that shoot up and he looks at you in surprise. When the server leaves to get the drinks, you lean in and said, "It's payback," you sigh as you sit down.

"So...you weren't too keen on going on a date with me then?" he asks awkwardly.

You suddenly look mortified, "No, no! That's not it at all it's-I-ugh!" you slump back in your chair. You let out a deep breath and sit up again, "Alright, so I believe two years ago, you and I actually met before and I made a complete fool out of myself because I tripped and ate the pavement. I busted my lip, there was lots of blood. Not a pretty sight or a cool thing to do in front of your celebrity crush."

Jamie smirks, "I'm your celebrity crush?"

You sit there in silence, mentally cursing yourself and Colin for making you go through this embarrassment again. You stand, "Right, okay, I've embarrassed myself enough. I'm leaving."

Jamie rushes to a stand, "No, please, don't. I'm only teasin' ya. It's nothin' bad, I promise. You're-You're very cute when you're flustered."

"Thanks," you murmur.

Luckily, the server came back with the most expensive bottle of wine. As soon as he poured your glass, you began downing it. Jamie watches you in amusement.

"Sorry, I just need some liquid courage to get through this."

Jamie leans forward, resting his arms on the table, "How about this, we just forget who I am for tonight. I'm not Jamie Tartt, the most amazing striker in the league. Just Jamie, a nervous lad on a date with a beautiful girl."

"You're nervous?" you ask in shock.

He shrugs, "It's been a while since I've gone on a proper date. Kinda forgot how to do this sort of stuff."

"Pft, I've gone on many dates and so far, you're the best one."

"Yeah? Tell me about 'em."

And that's how dinner goes. Over another glass and eventually over some food, you tell Jamie about your past dates. He tells you about some ridiculous things he's done with the guys when Coach Lasso was around. It was nice. It was nice knowing that Jamie wasn't here because he wanted to get close to Colin. He was there because he wanted to. You assumed he was interested in you by the way he flirted with you throughout the nice. So maybe this wasn't such a bad thing after all.

Once dinner was over, Colin came over with a pout, "Did you guys really have to order the most expensive items here?!"

"That's what you get for tricking me like that," you boop his nose and Michael snickers as he weaves his fingers through Colin's.

"But it went alright, yeah?" he looks at you and Jamie.

"I'd say so," Jame puts his hand on your lower back, "We're, uh, actually gonna head to a pub for more drinks."

"Oh! Well, uh, I think Michael and I will head on home then."

You don't want to give Colin the satisfaction just yet, so you say, "I'll text you later when I'm home."

"Sounds good," he says and pulls at Michael's hand, "Let's go, babe."

Looking over his shoulder, Michael gives you a wink and a thumbs up.

You snort and then turn to Jamie, "Ready?"

"Whenever you are, love." and you two head out onto more drinks, more talking, and, hopefully, more dates after this.

[axelsagewrites]

kindly no pressure asking if locker room roy kent x reader will have a second part where jamie and roy finally talk/confront/fight? 🫣

Roy Kent*Apologise

Pairing: roy kent x f!reader

Word count: 1422

Warnings: swearings, mentions of semi public smut and getting caught, mentions of masturbating, a lot of swearing  

Part one here

Masterlist here

The night Roy met you was the best day of his life but the day you sucked him off in front of Jamie’s locker. And the thing that somehow made it better? Jamie saw it. Roy had the next two days off from Richmond so best believe those two days were spent in bed with you, only leaving for food and water.

Roy was smiling as he walked into Richmond. A sight that truly unsettled all the staff and his teammates. “Alright Isaac? Nice weather the day innit,” he grinned at the boy as they walked to the locker room.

“Uh yeah captain. It’s nice,”

“Gotta love when the suns out. birds chirping. A breeze in the air,”

“Yeah, yeah,” Isaac muttered, looking over at Colin who looked terrified of Roy’s happiness.

As Roy walked into the locker room Colin paused to whisper to Isaac, “Wasn’t it raining?”

“I don’t know what’s going on,” Isaac said, eyes never leaving Roy, “but it cannot be good,”

As the rest of the team began to filter in Roy continued to make happy small talk, even asking Sam how his weekend had been. It was freaking everyone out. the other odd thing however just walked through the door.

“Alright Tartt?” Roy called over, wide grin on his face, “Hairs looking good,”

Jamie just nodded, muttering a quiet thanks as he began to get changed with a grimace on his face when he got to his locker. “What the fuck is going on?” Colin whispered to Isaac who was seriously considering taking up religion in this moment.

Jamie had never been so quiet during a practise. He did every drill without complaint, scored every kick, and even passed the ball. “I’m worried about him,” Ted sighed as he watched him play, “He just doesn’t seem himself,”

“His playing’s excellent though,” Nate said, before trying to joke, “Maybe this is the start of a mature Jamie Tartt,”

Beard crossed his arms as he stared out onto the pitch, “There’s a disturbance in the force. Besides. Roy’s creepy when he’s happy,”

-

“Great work Colin, nice foot work,” Roy praised, patting the boy on the shoulder before running to get the ball.

Just as everyone was about to call for a priest you walked out of the tunnel. Usually, your presence was first notice by Jamie who would give a loud wolf whistle but instead you were able to walk up to Ted without drawing much attention. “And what do we owe this pleasure?” Ted asked, a smile on his face.

“Hey coach. Roy forgot his phone, so I came to drop it off,”

As if on queue Roy jogged over to the group, ignoring everyone but you who he gave an unabashed public kiss too despite usually hating PDA. “What would I do without you?” he joked as you both walked to the side so he could put it in his hoodie.

“You’re in a good mood. Jamie’s still alive though?” you joked.

A wider smile cracked his face, “He’s growing on me. What can I say?” he said but you paused, crossing your arms to scan his face, “What?”

You glanced to the field only to notice Jamie instantly look away when it dawned on you, “You told him!” you whisper yelled, smacking at his chest.

“I did not,” Roy protested, trying to look serious when a smile cracked back on his face, “He saw us,”

All of Roy’s happiness flooded away when a look of pure thunder crossed your face and your hands went to your hips, “And you didn’t think to tell me? Have you been torturing that poor boy?”

“No but- “

“Don’t ‘no but’ me. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Why are you defending him- “

“Does my face look like it cares?” you asked, dropping your hands from your hips only to cross your arms again, “Whatever you’ve been saying to him you better stop,”

“I didn’t say anything! I swear,” Roy said as he realised how much he’d fucked it, “I didn’t mean to upset you,”

“You don’t need to say anything to say something,” you said, rolling your eyes at the confused look on his face, “You better apologise,” you said making Roy scoff, but you were prepared to call his bluff, “No apology, no sex. Sorry I don’t make the rules,”

“That is so not fair,” Roy scoffed, “You can’t do that,”

“Try me,” you smiled as sweetly as possible before turning around to leave, swaying your hips a bit extra than usual to drive the point home. “Bye boys!” you called to the team, glancing back at Roy to send a quick wink before you left.

-

The force was slowly being restored since Roy was now back to miserable and angry but unfortunately Jamie’s mood hadn’t changed yet. Ted had tried pulling Jamie aside but he just shrugged it off. The team was back in the locker room, getting ready to leave.

As Jamie turned to leave though Roy sighed, “Tartt,” he called through gritted teeth, “I need to talk to you,”

“Maybe I don’t wanna talk to you,” Jamie said and the tension in the room could be cut by a knife.

Isaac went to whisper something to colin but before he could even start Roy’s head whipped around to glare at them, “Everyone out,” he barked and instantly the boys sprang to leave, “Everyone but Tartt,”

“Hey I think it might be best if I stayed-“ Ted tried to say but the low growl from Roy and glare from Jamie had him exiting just as swiftly.

“What?” Jamie asked, huffing as he crossed his arms.

“I’m,” Roy started to say but the words tasted like sick as he tried to force it out, “Sorry,” he eventually managed.

“What for?” Jamie asked, cocking his head to the side.

“You know what for,” Roy huffed, “Not stop taking the piss and take the apology,”

“That’s not how apologies work ya know?” Jamie said, dropping his arms, “Ya big creepy weirdo you,”

“Hey, you’re the one that was watching!”

“Was not!”

“So, what were you doing in your car then?”

“None your damn business!”

“Uhuh sure,” Roy said, drawing out the words as he chuckled, “See if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were the pervert. Watching me and my girlfriend- “

“Fucking in my fucking locker? Like a pair of fucking fuckity weirdos fucking- “

Roy couldn’t help but laugh a little, “You’re starting to sound like me,” he said making Jamie huff like a child. Roy sighed as a horrible feeling set in; maybe he had been wrong, “I’m sorry. I crossed a line. Won’t happen again,” he said, actually sincerely for once.

Jamie eyed him up and down before finally nodding, “Okay but just you know. Don’t tell anyone about well…”

“I wish I didn’t even know,” Roy joked making Jamie roll his eyes. The pair were silent for a moment, “We good then? You gonna start being a prick again?”

“You’re terrible at apologies,” Jamie rolled his eyes as he grabbed his bag, “but yeah, we’re good. don’t know how she puts up with you though,” he said as the pair headed out the locker room to finally go home.

Roy couldn’t help himself, “Not just her who goes down- “

“We are not that close,” Jamie cut him off, holding his hand up to Roy’s face and making him cackle laughing.

The pair actually walked out of Richmond joking and laughing together. A sight you saw while you waited to pick Roy up. “See you tomorrow?” Roy said, sending you a quick wave as he walked to the car.

“Yeah mate. Hey you never know,” Jamie said, tapping Roy’s shoulder making him pause, “Maybe next time it’ll be me and Keeley in your spot,“ he tried to joke but Roy’s smile dropped into a harsh glare, “On second thoughts I think I’m late to something bye!” he half yelled as he jogged to his car, never turning his back on Roy.

As Jamie sped out the parking lot Roy finally climbed in the car, “What did you do?” you asked, squinting at him.

“I apologised! Honest,” Roy said, holding his hands up in mock defence, “You can ask him yourself tomorrow,”

“I will text him,” you warned as you started the car up.

Realization dawned over Roy, “How’d you have the pricks number?”

“He gave it to me ages ago,” you shrugged, “Encase I ever needed it,”

“That little fucker,”

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[hopefulromances]

Long Time Coming I Chapter Four I Jump Then Fall

Summary: Being hired as the first female assistant coach in the league was a challenge of it itself. Being a football protigy and University Football Legend was easy enough. Coaching Jamie Tartt was a challenge all on its own.

Word Count: 3.6k

Warning: I have literally no clue how football works.

A/N: Enjoy!

Prologue One Two Three

Roy was back. I love Roy. Roy was straight forward and honest. The boys responded well to him. Maybe it was because he was one of them, but Roy understood them better. The Roy Kent effect they were calling it. Of course, that didn’t come with a fair bit of jealously. As much as I tried not to be jealous, of course Roy was getting more recognition for his work than I ever did. His dramatic return at the beginning of the Sheffield game was something to be inspired by.

But Roy and I got along. We had an understanding of the game that Ted and Beard and Nate just didn’t have. We were able to communicate in our own way. We stood on the sidelines, watching the boys scrimmage when Colin whiffed a shot at the goal. I rolled my eyes and glanced over at Roy who nodded at me in agreement.  

I was about to say something when Nate stepped forward.

            “Come on, Colin. You dolt!” he shouted at him.

My eyes widened in surprise at him. Even if Colin wasn’t my friend, which he was, that’s no way to speak to your team. Roy seemed to feel my discomfort and stepped forward in front of me.

            “Colin, you're leaning too far back. Head down, fucking whip it!” Roy instructed, in his aggressive yet endearing way.

            “Thanks, Roy,” Colin called back, grateful for the advice. “I am a strong and capable man.”

I was about to mention my concerns about Bumbercatch when Roy continued. “Bumbercatch, great pass, but it don’t mean shit if they see it coming. The rest of you in the box, when the shot goes, you fucking follow it in!”

            “You smell that, lads?” Isaac asked, letting in a dramatic sniff. “That’s the Roy Kent Effect.” The lads laughed, and I thought I saw the ghost of a smile on Roy’s face as he stepped back to stand by me.

I felt my smile fall at their praise. It was stupid, it really was. Roy was new. Roy was loud. Roy was funny. They flocked to him like he was their savior. And he was! The four-game winning streak was enough to convince anyone of that. I shifted to stand up straight.

            “Anything for me, coach?” Jamie ran up to the front of the group, looking desperately at Roy for his advice.

But Roy ignored him, clapping his hands and instructing the boys to start up again. I let out a low breath. Forgiving Jamie wasn’t easy. Especially when Jamie had all but single-handedly ended his career.

Jamie looked over at me, the disappointment rolling over his features. I gave him a sympathetic smile, shrugging indifferently.  I was jealous. Jealous of Roy Kent because he was so fucking wonderful and great at his job.

I stewed as I sat back in my chair during lunch. I tuned myself out of the conversation that Keely and Ted were having, trying to convince myself to not be jealous. Jealousy was not my favorite emotion, and it was downright embarrassing. What caught my attention was when Jamie walked into the room half dressed.

            “Hi (Y/N),” he greeted. I felt my heart speed up as he singled me out in a greeting. “Hey Keely.” And back to normal speed. I shook my head at myself. I was all out of wack today. Jealous about Roy, disappointed when Jamie greeted Keely, his friend. Just silly. “Gotta tell Roy he needs to start coaching me.”

Of course, he was here about Roy. I tried not to roll my eyes as I stood up, grabbing my bag.

            “Oh, wait, you want me to tell Roy Kent what to do?” Ted retorted quickly. “That’s a great idea.”

            “Yeah, he’ll love that,” Keely giggled, shooting Jamie a side eye.

            “Yes, I’ll totally drop it into one of our conversations where Roy talks about his life and asks me for advice,” Nate chimed in.  We all laughed before Beard turned and blew a raspberry at Jamie.

            “Philistines!” Oh! Big word for Jamie. “I’m asking for help here!”

In his defense, he did truly seem desperate, but the whole situation was just so hilarious to me, I couldn’t help but let out a laugh.

            “Philistines? What is that your word of the day?” I jabbed, moving to lean across from Keely. He glared at me, crossing his arms. I found myself looking over his features, his tense jaw, the way his shirt hugged his biceps. Were his biceps always that big? Oh, god, what was I doing. It was just Jamie. Yeah, he was attractive, but so what? I tuned back into the conversation just as Ted and Keely were leaving. I sent them away and hit Jamie on the shoulder.

            “Grab your lunch, and lets go,” I told him as I walked out of the room.

Jamie and I liked to enjoy our lunches sitting on the pitch. It's where we enjoye most of our free time together. Usually, he would ask me advice on some football technique or play he was trying and I would help where I could. But today, Jamie sat across from me, stabbing aimlessly at his salad. I shook my box, getting the dressing nice and mixed into mine.

            “Jamie, what is going on with you?” I questioned. “You’ve barely touched your summertime strawberry salad!”

I reached forward with my fork and tried to stab at it, but he warded me off.

            “It’s Roy! He just knows how to get under me skin,” he complained, finally shoving a strawberry in his mouth. “I thought I was finally making headway here.”

I couldn’t help but let out a groan. “Jamie, it’s Roy. You two have always hated each other.”

            “I don’t hate, Roy!” Jamie exclaimed, stabbing particularly hard at his food. “Well, I think he’s a pretentious old twat, but I don’t hate him.” He leaned back, setting his fork down. “I just want him to coach me.”

            “For fucks sake,” I burst out. I was sick of everyone looking for Roy’s approval, he was just a man. “He’s just Roy! If you want something from him, just be upfront. Don’t go looking for something in any kiss uppy, or brown nosey way. And anyways, aren’t four coaches enough, why are you all so desperate for Roy’s attention?”

I couldn’t keep the desperation out of my voice and Jamie could tell. He cocked his head at me.

            “Why do you care? We all listen to you anyways. It’s getting you to shut up that’s the problem!” He smirked, sticking his tongue out at me. But I was not in the mood for jokes. No matter how much I felt my cheeks burn watching the way his eyes squinted when he smiled. But no, I was angry.

            “Fuck off, Jamie,” I mumbled before standing up. I turned on my heel and left, heading back inside.

            “Wait! I was just joking,” Jamie called after me.

I didn’t turn around and I heard him curse loudly as I went inside. I walked back to my office and saw Ted sitting there, on his phone. I slumped into my chair, starting to spin. Everything was so fucked. I felt like my emotions were out of control. I was so angry. It felt like I was spiraling out of control. For some reason, the only thing in my head was Jamie. Jamie and his stupid smile, his cocky, smug, stupid smile. Why didn’t he want my coaching? Why wasn’t he fighting to get my attention? God, I felt so stupid.

            “(Y/N)!” Ted’s voice broke my chain of thought, and I stopped spinning. “Hold on there! If you spin any faster, you’re gonna whisk away a little girl and her dog.”

I felt the aftereffects of the spin setting in and leaned back, staring straight ahead. “Isn’t it a little corny to make a Wizard of Oz metaphor? Seeing as you’re from Kansas?”

            “No! That adds to the charm!” Ted exclaimed. “Now why don’t you tell me whats wrong?”

I weighed my options. I could tell Ted everything. He was great at listening and usually gave good advice. But what if he laughed at me or told me to get over myself. Though that thought along was ridiculous enough. Ted was kind. He would never laugh at me.

         “It’s just…” I began, taking a deep breath. “I feel so… weird? I’m jealous! And I’m not a jealous person. But with Roy being back, it feels like… no one needs me around anymore. Like I never got any of the kind of attention that Roy is getting now. ‘The Kent Effect?’ What about the Clemen’s Effect?” I shook my head, realizing how stupid I sound. “And now I’m realizing that I sound like a jealous third grader.”

Ted chuckled.

“I was gonna say you were turning into that giant green bean fella but jealous third grader works too.” I let out a breath laugh, closing my eyes and shoving my face in my hands. “Hey, though, don’t beat yourself up! I get it. I do. But don’t let that make you forget just how much we need you here.” I looked up from my hands to look at Ted. He gave me a smile. “The boys respond to you well, they always have. Heck! You know more about this game than Beard or Nate or myself. Roy is just… new. But there’s one thing that you have that Roy doesn’t.”

            “What’s that?” I asked, looking for an answer.

            “The ability to show by doing,” he stated. “Ever since you showed Jamie that trick about dragging his feet, he’s made more free kicks than ever. Roy’s too old and crotchety to actually be able to do anything anymore. But you! You’re in the prime of your career. You can teach these boys in a way none of the rest of us can.” He reached out and put his hand on my shoulder. “And one thing I want you to understand is that we need you. We will always need you. Don’t forget that.”

For some reason, his words really hit me. My eyebrows furrowed together and gave him a sincere smile. I opened my mouth to say something, thank you, or anything, when Roy and Jamie flew in from the hallway.

            “You fucking asshole!” Jamie shouted.

            “I know you are but so are you,” Roy grunted back, starting to walk into the coach’s room. Ted and I shared a glance before both of us started to rise from our seats.

            “I’m trying to build bridges here!” Jamie’s exasperated voice called out.

Roy turned on his heel, rounding on Jamie. “You couldn’t fucking build Jeff Bridges.”

He pushed Jamie back. I flew up forward and raced out into the locker room, getting in between Roy and Jamie. I stepped in front of Jamie, feeling a rush of protectiveness flooding through me.

            “Hey, hey, hey!” Ted joined, spreading his arms between them. “What’s going on here?”

            “This man refuses to coach meh!” Jamie accused pointing over my shoulder.

            “He refuses to stop being an asshole,” Roy retorted.

 “Hey, we both know Jamie has come a long way in his journey to not be an asshole,” I defended.

“Thank you, (Y/N)!” Jamie chimed in.

“Okay Roy, you’re not going to like this but, right now, Jamie here is being the mature one,” Ted began, moving to standing next to Jamie.

“It’s true. I’m being super mature, you big, dumb, hairy, baby twat,” Jamie whined. I turned and gave Jamie a side eye. Roy suggested that it was Ted’s fault that Jamie wasn’t as good of a player as he used to be.

            “Cause, Jamie, deep down, at your core, you are a prick,” Roy stated, firmly. “So just be a prick.” I tried to glance over at Jamie, trying to wage his reaction. But he wasn’t giving much away.

We decided on a signal. A signal to give Jamie when it was time to be a prick. Or I should say, Roy decided on a signal. One we would find out about later, I suppose.  

Nonetheless, it seemed to qualm the fight that Roy and Jamie had built, and the rest of the day went smoothly. I was packing up my stuff to leave when Roy cleared his throat from behind me.

            “Hey Roy, what’s up?”

            “You’re a good coach.”

I pause and turn to face him. “What… what do you mean?”

Roy rolled his eyes. “I mean, you’re a good fucking coach. The boys respond well to you. You know what you’re doing. Which is more than I can say for Ronald McDonald.”

I laughed, looking down. “I think Ted knows what he’s doing.”

            “I was talking about Nate, but the point stands.” He reached out his hand for me to shake. Maybe it was my crazy emotional whirlwind of a day, but I knocked his hand aside and pulled him in for a hug. His arms didn’t warp around me at all, but he didn’t immediately start to growl so I took it as a success.

As I walked out to my car that night, I saw Jamie leaning against his car, scrolling on his phone. When he saw me coming out of the door, he put his phone away and shot me the biggest smile. Not his normal, cocky one, but a softer, for sincere one.

            “Hey (Y/N),” He started, walking to meet me. “I wanted to apologize, for before.”

            “Jamie, you have nothing to apologize for.” I shook my head, holding my hands up to stop him. “I was being so moody earlier. Just a weird day.”

            “S’lright, just wanted to make sure you was okay,” He said, shoving his hands in his pockets. “Seemed upset.”

Goddamnit. That was so fucking thoughtful.

            “Yeah, I was… I was having a bad day.” I shrugged. “But, I’ll be okay.”

He stared at me for a moment longer before nodding his head. We stood there, staring at each other in a not-too-uncomfortable silence. Finally, I popped my lips.

            “Alright! I guess I’ll see you this weekend. Tottenham won’t know what hit them!” I moved passed him, walking backwards towards my car.

Jamie smirked, turning with me to leave. “That’s for sure, already told Colin you’re filling in for him.”

            “Hah! That’s- that’s really- “I bumped into my car, slamming my hip against the handle. “Ah, fuck, ouch.”

            “Shit, are you-“

            “Yep! I’m fine!” I cut him off before he could be concerned. “Just great, I’ll see you Saturday.”

I opened the door to my car and got in before he could say another word. What was wrong with me?

…

This Saturday filled me with so many feelings. If I thought my emotions were out of wack at the beginning of the week, the anxiety that filled me about Tottenham just made things worse. We were one win away from going to Wembley and playing Manchester for the FA Cup semis. If we won, it would be to the excellent coaching of Ted Lasso and stellar skills of our players. If we lost it would be because of the female coach dragging the team down.

My normal routine of cheering on the lads in the locker room was replaced with my anxious twirling in my chair. Not even Ted tried to get me to stop. What did get me to stop was when Jamie came into the door way.

            “Mornin’ Coach,” He stopped when he saw me, clearly frazzled in the corner of the room. “Should I ask?”

            “Definitely not,” Beard answered for me.

Jamie cocked his head, pursing his lips at me. “Bit scared about the game, yeah?”

I shot him a glare as my feet planted themselves in the ground before twisting so I was facing the wall away from them.

            “I just told you not to ask!”

            “What do you need, Jamie” Ted interrupted before Beard could escalate things forward.

Jamie’s eyes stayed planted on me for a moment longer before he dragged them over to Ted.

            “I was just wondering if you decided on a signal for me?”

            “I told you; you’d know it when you see it.” Roy entered the room coming over to spin my chair to face them again. “You, need to stop spinning or you’ll blow chunks on the field.”

I frowned at him but stood up and brushed past Jamie into the locker room. As I did though, he grabbed my arm. My breath caught in my throat as I turned back to look up at him. I never realized how much taller he was than me. To my surprise, there was no hint of humor. Just a sea of concern.

            “Are you okay?” he murmured; his face so close to mine I could feel his waiting breath.

I bit my lip, suddenly overcome by my emotions. The same emotions that had been drawing me to his body, his lips, his eyes, every single day this week. I found enough breath to reply a soft: “I’m okay.”

At my reply, he let go of my arm and shot me a comforting smile instead. “Good, ‘cos I was beginning to worry that my salad choices had come back to haunt you.”

“No, our salads were fine.” I chuckled at his concern. “But I am concerned about your ability to play well after too many strawberries.”

“Don’t you worry about me Strawberries,” he smirked. “In a few hours you’ll be begging for my strawberry salad recipe”

He shot me a wink before turning and heading back to his locker. Why were my cheeks burning?

The game was more mediocre to say the least. Nearing the half, the score was nil-nil with only a few attempts at a goal. I could feel the energy leaving the players as Jamie passed the ball to an unprepared Sam. A Tottenham play swiped the ball, kicking it out of bounds. I groaned, running a hand through my hair.  

            “Fuck,” I spat under my breath, turning to Ted. “What’s the plan?” Roy suddenly appeared beside me, causing me to jump slightly. “Christ.”

            “Reckon it’s time to use the signal, huh?” Ted asked, hesitantly.

            “Yep,” Roy answered.

            “Yeah, okay…” Ted looked around nervously. “You didn’t by any chance come up with a better one, did you?”

            “No”

            “Alright.” Ted sighed before cupping his mouth and shouting. “Hey Jamie! Jamie!”

On the field, Jamie turned to look at us. In unison, the five of us all raised our middle fingers at him. I didn’t know how to react when Roy told us the signal he had come up with. It wasn’t exactly surprising, but I wasn’t sure how the crowd would react. Of course, the second we made the signal, the crowd burst out in laughter. Jamie’s face contorted in confusion before a look of realization dawned on him.  

He quickly ran over to one of the Tottenham players, Barnett, and started chatting to him. Whatever he said to him must have pissed him off cause soon the two of them were racing towards the ball. Jamie took control of the ball when, from out of nowhere, Barnett slid into Jamie’s legs, causing him to fall and roll to the ground.

            “REFEREE” Beard shouted, throwing his hands up.

Of course, the ref blew his whistle giving Jamie a penalty. Jamie hopped up off the ground and on his face was his signature cocky, sideways smirk. He approached Barnett and got in his face, saying something snarky I’m sure, because the next second, Barnett was pushing Jamie and having to be pulled away by his teammate. Jamie ran backwards, throwing his hands up in mock surrender.

            “Hmm, glad he’s on our team, you know?” Ted nudged me, but I found myself unable to take my eyes off of him. I muttered an agreement as Jamie turned to face us for a moment as Barnett was cleared off. His eyes were shining with mischief as he raised his eyebrows at me. I shook my head at him, unable to keep the smile off my face.

            “Hey, what do you think? Trick play?” Ted huddled us in a moment. I shook my head. It was a long shot for sure, but one I knew he could make. In fact, it was the same distance I had shown him how to hit that day after training. He could do it.

            “You don’t need it,” Roy, as usual, could read my mind. “The little prick’s gonna fucking score from there.”

Nate scoffed in disbelief.  But I knew what Jamie could do. I watched as he placed the ball on the ground in front of him and took a breath. Then one by one, he dragged his feet backwards, just like I’d shown him. The turf disrupted slightly as his red boots tore up the soil. Then, it was like the world stood still, he jaunted forward, hit the ball with the side of his foot and watched as it flew through the air. Then, with the sweet swish of the goal, the world exploded into cheers. The stadium flew into a state of celebration as the team ran to Jamie’s side.

            “YES!” I cried. “FUCK YES JAMIE!” Jamie turned again, to look over at us. In one swift motion, he flipped us off with both of his fingers. I laughed and shook my head, feeling that flutter in my stomach again. Then it hit me. Just as quickly, as if it was a football to the face. It hit me, staring at his tongue sticking through his lips, as he celebrated with his teammates. It hit me that I was most definitely in love with Jamie Tartt.

A/N: Hope you enjoyed! Let me know what you think!

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