#happy birth jo

[faustiandevil]

I have connected the dots and unlocked myself a new father~ Happy Birthday @awildjonesyappears!! You are my dad now~

I originally just wanted to add a photo of my father Béla, but it looked out of place so I quickly went over it. I always feel like I’m not capturing his likeness well enough. I also need to put him in the Dracula gear for him to be recognizable.

Alternate version of previous dumbassery:

[muniimyg]

⋆𐙚₊˚⊹ bbydaddy!jk (birthday) ⋆𐙚₊˚⊹

series m.list // taglist request closed

note: once upon a time ,, they were happy (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶) .... here is a not-so-mini mini extra 🌟 happy birthday to jungkook ,, my op irl 🤨

timestamp: oc is nearly a month pregnant !! aka this happens before their break up. jk and oc are 28/29 yrs old in this extra …. during bbydaddy plot they are 32/33 (same birth year just month differences for bdays)

🏷️ permanent taglist: @joonsjuice @pamzn @defzcl @maryy1300 @whoa-jo @taetaecatboy @jksusawife @un06 @firesighgirl @rrosiitas @butterymin @parkinglot-nights @musicjournalsjdb @kissyfacekoo @jkslvsnella @vampcharxter @bloopkook @somehowukook @bbystarcandykoo

//

"nice try."

"yah, yah, yah! no—d-don’t push me out! honey, if you’re going to push me out... then you’re coming with me!"

jungkook playfully grabs hold of your wrist and starts to drag you toward the living room entrance. after a few steps, you groan and yank your wrist back. with a dramatic huff and an exaggerated roll of your eyes, you place both hands on his shoulders. jungkook groans but lets you push him out.

"this isn’t good for you, you know? you shouldn’t be doing any physical activity that might strain your body. ___, you’re pregnant—"

"they don’t know!" you hush him, pinching his sides. "jungkook, i’m just preparing your cake. it’s not that much effort, and you’re the one making this difficult—"

jungkook stands still and turns you around, wrapping his arms around you and resting his chin in the crook of your neck. together, you both gaze at the half-decorated cake. jungkook nuzzles closer, practically squishing your cheeks together.

"___... you threw me this surprise party all by yourself. you’ve been having morning sickness for the past week, yet you got up early to decorate our entire place with childish decorations just so i could wake up to something special. oh, and i can’t forget the fucking cake you baked—"

"it’s not done!" you panic. "it’s so ugly! you’re such a liar—"

"knowing you and your baking skills, it’s perfect."

"you haven’t even tasted it yet," you snap, crossing your arms. he holds you tighter, and you squirm from the change in pressure. "and what was that about the decorations? you think they’re childish? you’re the one obsessed with spiderman! you wanted spiderman themed—“

"because i am spiderman."

"grow up."

"okay... so that means growing old with you, right?" jungkook beams, planting a tender kiss on your cheek. you giggle as he starts showering you with affectionate kisses. pulling him away, you wipe your cheeks.

"yuck."

"you weren’t saying ‘yuck’ when we made a baby," jungkook teases. then he tilts his head back and raises his pitch dramatically. "uh huh! y-yes, jungkook! f-fuck—me... p—please! oh my god, oh my god, oh my god! cum inside... i want your cum so bad—"

"shut up!"

you cover jungkook’s mouth and glare at him.

"do you want cake or not? stop bothering me and let me finish up."

"i do, i do..." jungkook laughs. he mumbles a quick apology as he brings your hands to his lips, kissing them gently, his eyes begging. "___, can you please take a seat and join them? i’ll ask yoongi and jimin to finish decorating the cake. come on, ___... i don’t want you working so hard—"

"no," you say firmly. "i can do it. jungkook, i’m barely in my first trimester!" you reassure him by placing his hand on your stomach. jungkook pats it and purses his lips. in response, you squish his lips together. with a sweet, coaxing tone, you continue, "it’s your birthday. come on, honey... enjoy this. just have a good time—"

jungkook dips his head and kisses you.

you kiss him back, smiling as you pull away. quickly, you think of a way to get rid of him. he hates the way your eyes light up... he just knows you’ve made a plan.

"i have a present for you," you sing. "… but i’ll only give it to you if you leave."

jungkook pouts.

"honey, i told you... our baby is my gift this year!"

you cup his cheek with one hand. "is that how precious your creampies are?"

jungkook snorts. "yes. you have a problem with that?"

"too late if i do," you laugh, pointing at your belly. "i’m gonna have a problem with you in a few seconds if you don’t get out of our kitchen. please—for the love of god—go. have fun with your friends! i’ll show you your present later."

he whines and stomps his foot. you gasp at his childishness.

"jungkook... seriously," you peel him off you. "you know what? you have one guess. if you get it right, you get to have it now. if not, you have to go out and party."

"is it sex?” he giggles. “got you pregnant already, not really sure what else we could do—no choking. i will never choke you—"

"shut up."

he laughs and holds you tight. for a moment, you two stay like this, wrapped in each other’s arms, happy and savoring the moment.

you both had a hunch, but officially found out you were pregnant just a week ago. you’re almost four weeks along, but the news has already sparked so much change in your relationship.

for instance, jungkook has been constantly protective and proactive when it comes to you. yet, you continue to push through and get things done. from work to household chores, nothing is slowing you down. jungkook can’t help but be amazed and deeply in love with you. honestly, it feels like he hasn’t fully processed that you’re carrying his child.

you’ve done so much for him. more than words could ever express—you’ve shown him so much of what love and life have to offer. so when you say you have a gift for him, he can hardly believe it. why would you do such a thing? why would you give him more than this? he doesn’t deserve it. he doesn’t deserve you.

since the beginning of your relationship, you’ve always been incredibly attentive to jungkook. not to mention, you’re adored by his family. from knowing how to cook his favorite meals (so much so that he always looks grumpy while eating) to being the only person he wants to see at the end of the day—you’ve given him so much comfort and hope in his life. to have a baby with you is an honor. he thinks to himself that he must have done something extraordinary in his past life to deserve a woman like you. you're so inspiring in so many ways... you're self-made. you're incredible.

a person who truly cares for him.

a person who is after his heart.

a person who is his entire heart.

see, he’s always believed there are only two ways love can go: to love someone or to be loved by someone. however, after loving you and being loved by you, he’s come to the conclusion that there is another way.

to be love.

that’s exactly what you are to him.

so, because he loves you, jungkook gives in. he hugs you one more time before heading to the living room. he joins his friends and starts the karaoke party. you stay in the kitchen, finishing off the cake.

a few minutes later, you walk into the living room with the cake, and candles lit.

"happy birthday, jungkook!"

everyone joins in, singing heartily. jungkook wraps his arms around you as he leans forward to blow out the candles.

"what did you wish for?" jimin asks.

jungkook smiles warmly.

"time."

before everyone leaves, jungkook insists they help clean up. yoongi and jin tackle the dishes, while taehyung and hobi straighten up the living room. jimin takes out the trash, and you and jungkook pack up extra food for everyone to take home.

once the place is spotless and everyone has left, jungkook suddenly scoops you up, effortlessly hoisting you over his shoulder and carrying you into the bedroom. he gently places you on your side of the bed, tucking you in with a tender touch. he grabs the book you’ve been reading from the nightstand and switches on the soft glow of the reading lamp.

"rest," he says softly.

you cross your arms, pouting a little. "it’s only 11:50 p.m... you kicked everyone out so early."

"my birthday is over," he replies with a shrug.

"you’ve still got ten more minutes," you counter, your voice teasing.

jungkook ignores your comment and climbs into bed beside you. he wraps an arm over your hips and rests his head on your tummy, his face nuzzling into you as he lets out a contented sigh.

"should we start thinking of baby names?" he yawns, his mind already running through a list. you laugh softly, setting your book aside, and it doesn’t take long before your fingers are threading through his hair, playing with the soft strands.

"what's the rush?" you murmur, your voice calm and reassuring. "we have time."

he can’t shake the feeling that there’s never enough time, that it’s always slipping away too quickly. yes, there’s always another day, another schedule, another moment pulling him away. but there will never be another this—another moment just like this. he feels the weight of every ticking second, even now, as he lies in bed with you.

is it strange that he’s going to miss this? being wrapped around you, resting his head on your tummy, waiting for your unborn child... it still feels like everything could slip away.

"there’s never enough time," he murmurs, his voice muffled against the soft fabric of your shirt. his fingers trace idle patterns on your side, trying to memorize the feel of you beneath his touch. he wants everything, wants this moment last.

if he could ask for forever, he’d ask for it now.

you run your fingers through his hair slowly, your touch light and soothing, as if you’re trying to calm the storm raging inside him.

"... technically, time is infinite—"

"shut up," he groans, a small smile tugging at his lips despite himself. "don’t be a lawyer right now. i’m being serious."

you laugh softly. "i am being serious... jungkook, we have all the time we need, always."

he wants to believe you, wants to let your words sink into the parts of him that are always rushing, always afraid of running out of time. jungkook tilts his head up slightly, his chin resting on your stomach as he looks up at you.

your eyes meet his, full of warmth and understanding, and something inside him begins to soften. in this moment, he feels it—he just believes you.

"wanna know something?" you whisper, brushing your thumb against his temple, your touch anchoring him. "my time is yours, always."

jungkook shuts his eyes, letting your words wash over him, feeling them confront the ever-present fear of losing time. he feels you shift slightly, your hand moving away for a moment before returning, something cool and heavy pressing into his hand. he opens his eyes to see a watch—a rolex—gleaming softly in the dim light. he looks from the watch to you, his heart tightening with emotion.

"my time is yours... this—it’s so you always know," you say, smiling gently, your eyes filled with love. "there’s always enough time for us. i promise you that, jungkook. i promise you forever."

jungkook is at a loss for words. his heart feels full, and his head is swimming with emotion. he sits up and pulls you into a tight hug, kissing you deeply until you have to playfully push him away. you laugh softly, turning your attention back to the watch.

"i know it’s a rolex and all... but i had it engraved," you say with a grin.

jungkook flips the watch over and sees a date inscribed on the back.

"your birthday?" he chuckles, a smirk playing on his lips.

you can’t help but laugh again. "yes... and it’s also the first time i knew i loved you. remember? we met three months before my birthday. i had a mock trial that day, and you showed up during my fifteen-minute recess with a cupcake. we weren’t even officially together... and you drove in the pouring rain, four cities away, and skipped an exam just to see me. just for fifteen minutes. back then, i remember thinking... you must be insane. but you lit my candle in the pouring rain and kept re-lighting it until i got to blow it out... then, you asked me for my wish."

"oh yeah!" jungkook recalls, a smile spreading across his face. "you never told me what you wished for."

"that birthday... i wished that if i were to love someone... it had to be you... jungkook, you came right on time. so, happy birthday, honey! i loved you first which means i'll love you forever."

that night, jungkook changes all his passwords to your birthdate. not because it’s the day you were born, but because of the precious memory you shared with him. it’s the day his life truly began to change.

maybe you’re right, he thinks. maybe time is infinite. maybe, with you, he has all the time in the world.

in other words; he wants forever with you.

[koiiiji]

windbreaker characters as parents ༘⋆🌷🫧💭 ⋆˙

tw ; cuteness overload, contains character x character and character x reader

pairings ; min u x mia, shelly x jay jo, dom x reader, monster x reader, vinny x reader

౨ৎ let's start from min u and mia! proud parents of a girl and boy who are three years apart. girl is the older sister and goes along with her brother super well even through his puberty. mia is a great mother and her kids never hide anything from her as they know that they can trust her. mia and her daughter have their own "girls secrets" and side jokes, while min u and his son are super annoyed by it and tried to make their own side jokes, but girls always know its context. also, their grandad and auntie yuna spoil them so much!!! and also min u father are so proud of his son and he really likes mia. all in all 10/10 highly recommended to be born in this family.

౨ৎ shelly and jay. here things are more complicated because shelly parents insisted on them move in the UK during her pregnancy, but they decided to stay in Korea simply because shelly likes weather more and feel more comfortable there. life blessed them with a boy - a copy of his father. but he is a mummy's boy and he gets along with shelly more, even their son's first word was "mama!" when he happily squished shelly’s cheek with his small hands. with time, he builds more interests with jay’s hobbies, so till he hit his puberty he was such a sweet child. but when he turned 14? monster that going through "nobody understands me" era. sometimes jay wonders maybe he need to send his son to his mother so she will teach him some discipline, but then jay remembers that he doesn't want to give his child such trauma. by the way jay family calmed down the moment jay was accepted on the really well paid job and even his mother was proud that her son has international family. all in all 7/10 bc both jay and shelly parents would have a beef over who is better grandparents.

౨ৎ so i can imagine that dom would accept his father's business even tho he didn't insist. so you two were gifted with three daughters each with year apart. dom honestly wished his first would be a boy so he can grow up and protect his sisters, but fate had her own ideas. through your second pregnancy dom repeated that he would be happy for girl or boy, just healthy, strong child (he prayed for a boy), and you decided not to find out who you were going to have until the baby was born. and it was sweet, super calm girl. on third pregnancy dom really tried to have a boy (yes, he scrolled all that weird mums forums to find out in which pose you can conceive a boy). he has genuinely been surprised when doctor said you will have a girl. who was the happiest over the fact that he surrounded by girls? his father!! he loves all four of you, and dom suspect that his father loves you more than him. he definitely would call you daughter and generally he is super granddad and father-in-law. your daughters loves their granddad too!! imagine them cling to him from all sides, hanginig on his neck, arms and legs. generally girls goes along super good, but oldest and youngest are more close to their father as they share extrovert personality, while middle girl gets super along with you. dom are scared that they are growing up too fast and that in one day they will start dating b̴̨̢̰͖̂ͫͨ̒ͦͩô̷̤̠̻͔̤̖̳͖̥̼̽̓ͮ͆̉ͩ͆ͣͧ̿ͫ̚̕͜͞��̧̢̛̛̲̮̥̣̼̮͋ͩ̏̚y̶̢͎̜̬͖̩̰̬̞̓͌̽͆̈́̉̑ͨ̂ͧ͌̌̇̅͗͌͘͜͟s̶̸̢͉͙͈̳̻̣̲͔̜̩ͮ̌̃̄̄̓̍̽͌̈́͑́͑ͩ͟͠͝ 💀☠️ all in all 9/10 dom vibes with his favourite girls but one one stingy male tear drops when he sees fathers play baseball with their sons (he was hitted in the nose with a ball from his youngest daughter)

౨ৎ when you and deokbong announced that you will have a child, people were... curious - how?? how you would be able to carry his child since you look so small in comparison to him. and you know what? it was twin boys... the birth was difficult but you did it and then you faced new challenge - both boys was copy of their father and they was heavy. you prayed for your back, seriously, but deokbong is super supportive husband and father so he was always there to help you. thankfully your boys were calm. like literally they always had serious faces, fists clenched and almost never cried. with time your younger one maintained your character and more of your features showed, like brows and nose form, cheeks, and face shape. all in all 10/10 you four would be happy simple sport family!!

౨ৎ vinny hong refuse to have children. end of headcanon.

but seriously, vinny had huge trauma from his father and from bulling in school, he will never be sure that he is enough as financially and emotionally for kids, so you two are proud parents of one big dog, maybe doberman or cane corso and lazy cat. all in all 7/10 just because there are too much wool at home and vinny refuse to go on a walk with dog in the early morning.

[writingroom21]

Sweet Escape

Pairing: Rafe x single mom reader

Summary: Moving to Kildare with your best friend and daughter was the perfect move. The little island is perfect, the people are nice, and you are finally at peace. Then Rafe comes in with his perfect smile and charm, sweeping you off your feet. The only issue is if you are ready to let someone else in.

Warnings: None

Wc: 5.1K

series masterlist

Chapter 1: You again

The breeze blows your hair, obscuring your vision from the boxes in the back of the moving van. The weather was nice here in the outer banks, different to what it felt like in New york. Moving here right when Spring is in bloom was the best decision. Back home it’s still cold, barely even warming up. But here it’s so beautiful. The waves from the water behind the house hit the dock, the lapping sound making its way to the front.

“Grandma is having a blast with Vi right now. I know she’s glad to have a baby in the house again.” Jo your best friend says as she walks into the van to grab another box. It was her idea to move her. Her grandma was getting older and she wanted to come take care of her. When she figured it all out she just handed you tickets, telling you that you weren’t going to stay there longer.

Without consulting you she had talked with her grandma to let you and your daughter Violet to move in with them. She wanted to get you as far away from New York as she could. Jo is the type of best friend that feels responsibility for her friends. It was that way when you were children and it got worse when you had your own child.

The moment you found out you were pregnant she was there to cry along with you. She was there in the delivery room when your precious little girl was born. Every step of your life has been with her, never allowing you to go through it alone. You couldn’t be more grateful to have her in your life.

“That’s good. I’m sure Vi is going to love being around her. Two peas in a pod probably.” You try to not get into your head as you pick up a box of Vi’s things. When you told your parents you were pregnant they weren’t happy. To be fair you were eighteen, fresh out of highschool. They tried to be supportive but couldn’t look past it when their friends from church started to talk.

They had kicked you out right before you gave birth, leaving you to be stranded. The father was a nightmare to say the least and that wasn’t an option for you. He was a mistake that you wish you could take back. A reminder of being what your family wanted to only be their disappointment. He seemed perfect to them but deep down he was a monster, no one you want around your baby to begin with.

The only option you had was Jo. Her family wasn’t like yours, they took you in with open arms. Embracing Violet as one of their own. Even though you lost your family that night they forced you out, you found another that loved you more. For two years it was perfect, Vi was growing up nicely, hitting all her milestones. You had a good job and had saved up enough money to move out on your own. Which was perfect timing since Jo was going to move here.

Then a week after she informed you of her decision you got a call from a lawyer. “Hello?” You answered. “Hi, I'm looking for.”  He says your name for clarification. “Yes, that's me.” You were confused on what this could be about. Worried that it was your ex. “I’m sorry to inform you that your parents passed away the other night in a car accident. The wake will be this week and the Will reading is after.” The shock of their death didn’t settle in fully until the reading.  

They had left you everything, they had abandoned you yet they left you everything. The next few months of winter were filled with you selling their house and settling the bank information. Getting the move ready so you and Vi would be comfortable once in your new home. Leading to now, standing in front of the house that is yours.

Grandma June had a pretty house in a nice neighborhood. The backyard was big and the water was right behind. A complete contrast to what you had growing up. You grew up in a townhouse, Jo right next door. It may have been more room then a regular apartment but you still had little room. There was no backyard to play in, the only time you had outside was going to the park. 

Your life, even if it may not have been bad, wasn't perfect either. Your parents preached religion and the bible until it was shoved down your throat. Telling you what you can’t and can’t do by the eyes of God. Introducing you to their friends' sons to meet the proper boy, look at where that got you. This move was a chance to continue to better yourself and give Vi the chance of being herself. 

You set the box down in the room that is now Violets. June had moved herself to the guest house outback stating that she doesn’t need all of this space. She had given the deed to the two of you, gifting the home as a thank you for not sending her off to a home. That meant you all had your own rooms. Vi still tends to sleep with you so her room is more decoration. 

“Who would have thought we would be here?” Jo’s voice says from the doorway. You turn to look at her. “Me a twenty-one year old with a two year old or that we moved out of New York.” She pounders for a moment, finger tapping her chin. “Hmm I was going to say us moving here but the toddler thing works too.” She laughs walking into the room more.

“We should paint the walls this week. Grams said there’s a paint store we can get it at. Should be near the shop.” You smile at her as you both go to get more boxes. Before moving here you wanted a stable job where you would be able to be with Violet more often. In New York you were a receptionist so you would have to leave her with Jo’s parents. So it was important for you to have the freedom to be with her since you can’t rely on June.

When you were looking around for jobs online you had seen that a flower shop was going for sale. Growing up you had always loved flowers. Books of plants, flowers, and gardening stuffed your bookshelves. With the money that was left to you from your parents you decided to buy it. Was it a long shot? Maybe but it couldn’t hurt to try. This way you will be able to have Vi with you at the shop without paying for a sitter.

With the van unpacked it was close to dinner time. Too tired from the day you and Jo decide to order pizza. But you make Vi her own meal on the side to have. You’re stirring the noodles that are in the pot when tiny footsteps can be heard. “Momma.” A little voice yells. You drop the spoon, turning to squat down. “Vi. How’s my favorite flower doing?” She giggles as you blow kisses on her neck and squeeze her tight. “She’s been such a little angel. Are you sure you don’t want to just leave her with me during the day.” June asks as she walks into the kitchen.

“Oh no I couldn’t ask that of you. Anyway, I want to spend as much time with her as I can. She won’t stay this small forever.” You finish up Vi’s food just in time for the pizza to get there at the same time. You all sit down and eat. You cut up tiny pieces of your pizza to let Vi try to see how she will like it. The table laughs when she smacks her lips and signs for more. 

The rest of the night was pretty uneventful. Your routine consisted of giving Vi a bath and putting her to bed. Then finishing up some things before tucking in for the night as well. Before you know it the alarm is going off and it is bright outside. It’s seven o’clock so you have roughly thirty minutes before Vi gets up. 

Quickly you head to the bathroom for a shower rushing to head downstairs and start breakfast. When breakfast was finished it was time for her to wake up and you go to her room. Which she actually slept in last night. She’s rubbing her eyes, burrowing her head back into her pillow. “Goodmorning baby girl.” You softly say as you rub her back to gently wake her up more. “Hi momma.” Her voice is like music to your ears, always making you smile.

Slowly but surely she gets up, both of you entering the kitchen to eat. “Morning.” Jo yawns over her coffee mug. “Morning.” Strapping Vi to her chair, you place her plate in front of her before grabbing yours. Jo sits down across from you as she sips from her mug. “Any plans for today?” You finish chewing the piece of toast and look up at the girl in front of you. “Going to the shop. Want to work some stuff out before it opens again.”

“Bug and I can chill her with grams while you do that. I have the day off.” A sigh of relief is released. “Thank you. I need to make sure the ship of flowers is accurate. I need to restart the garden in the back.” Jo let’s out a “damn” while shaking her her. “Good luck with that. That sounds like a lot of counting. Counting yucky, right Vi.” The end is talking to the toddler. Her giggle lighting up the room. 

After finishing Vi’s morning routine you change into a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. The weather was nice but there was still a chill in the air. You walk down the stairs to see Violet on the floor of the living room playing with some toys. “Hi sweetie. Heading out?” June is sitting on the couch smiling at you. “Yup I’m going to the shop today. Do you need anything while I’m out?” She shakes her head and laughs when Vi hands her a toy. “I’m okay. Now go ahead before we keep you here.”

June has been in love with Violet since she was born. She had visited Jo’s family right after you got back from the hospital. From that moment on she was always asking about her and buying her things. She said it was the first baby since Jo so it’s like she has a great grandbaby. Everyone was so kind about you having a baby so young and you couldn’t be more grateful. Which is something you wish you could say about this flower delivery. 

The flowers were delivered yesterday right before you all started to unpack. You had rushed to let them in and place everything inside that you didn’t pay attention to when they did. The previous owners of the shop were older and couldn’t keep up with it anymore. The garden they had in the back that grew some of their flowers was dead and the others wilted a long time ago. So ordering flowers to fill the story was the only option you had.

Which seemed really great at the time but now it doesn’t. You had come in and set your bag down on the counter. Looking around you see the endless sea of flowers staring at you. You go to the back to the office and get the clipboard you had placed there yesterday. Painfully slow you separate the flowers by their species. Having to count every single one was starting to prove to be a difficult task.

One that got even worse when you found out you were short on some flowers. This wouldn’t have been a problem if it wasn’t for the fact that they were popular flowers. Roses, tulips, baby’s breath, carnations, all flowers that people love. You were opening up the store in two days and you need to make sure you have a good supply. June had said that a lot of the rich folk like to throw parties and will buy flowers. You need to be prepared just in case.

You were in the middle of counting the Anemone when the store's front door started to rattle. Stepping into view of the door there’s a tall man standing outside with his back to you. He’s on the phone and using his hands to talk wildly. The man turns around again to try the door and sees you standing there. He snaps his fingers at you and points to the door handle that’s locked.

You walk over and unlock it, opening it slightly to ask him what he needs. “Can I help you?” The guy is tall, handsome, his hair is growing out from a previous buzzcut. He has on a shirt that is too tight on him and a pair of khakis, not usually what you find attractive but he pulls it off. “Yeah. For starts you can let me in and second you’ll put my order in.” He holds up a pointer finger at you.

“I know. I’m here right now, if the new girl would let me in it could go faster.” He says into the phone. “Listen, I gotta go. I’ll let you know when they will be delivered.” You give him a complex look. “Sorry but we aren’t open right now. You have to come back in two days.” You try to close the door but his foot catches it. “Look, I really need an order for tomorrow. The florist we were using canceled and I need them. There’s a banquet and the stupid tables need flowers.”

 You look back at the store and at him again. It wouldn’t hurt to do this order but you haven’t finished inventory yet. He could be asking for flowers that you can’t even give him. “I’m sorry but I’m not even open yet.” He interrupts you. “Well just open the store up and ring me out. I get you are new here but come on.” His tone is rude, annoyed that this is taking longer than he wants. “No, I can't just open up the store. I’m new here because I just bought it and I don’t even know how many flowers I have yet. So no I can’t help you, I’m sorry.”

He scoffs at you. “Do you normally buy things you don’t know if you can handle or is this a spur of the moment thing? I need those flowers.” This guy really has some audacity. “Do you normally talk down on workers or are you just a asshole?” Your head tilts to the side, looking up at him. The sun is burning your retina is making it hard to see anything but the lower part of his face. Even through the pain you can see the smile that crept on his face.

“Good luck with opening this up. I can clearly see the customer service is subpar.” With that he’s walking off down the street, pulling out his phone to probably call someone else. “Hey asshole, the flower delivery was short with some. So that’s the main reason I can’t help you. Don’t just assume shit.” Without looking back he calls out to you. “Sounds like an issue you need to fix. Try calling them up next time.”

Fuck. Of course you could just have called them this whole time. Quickly, you get back inside to finish the inventory to see what else is missing. After another hour you are done, exhausted from all the back and forth. Sitting down in the back office you call the distributor that you had used, explaining to them which flowers were short and how many you would need. Thankfully the lady on the other end didn’t give you any trouble, telling you she would have them delivered tomorrow. 

By the time everything was done it was around 5:30, which meant you should head home for dinner. The drive back to the house was peaceful. In New York you really didn’t need a car, you had spent most of your time in the city so you took the subway. Every now and then you would have to drive to family in the suburbs, this reminds you of that drive. Seeing the trees and greenery is like a breath of fresh air. 

It was a reminder that your old life was left back States away, no monsters here to haunt you. It’s refreshing knowing you got a new start and that Vi will get to grow up in a good place. When you get home it’s ten minutes until dinner should be served, at least for Vi. She’s on a strict schedule and will get fussy if she doesn’t eat or sleep at the same time.

You were greeted with shouts coming from the living room, footsteps playing the floorboards like a piano. “Momma!” Vi screams when she sees you in the hallway. “Hi pretty girl. How is my favorite doing? Had a good day?” She nods, tiny hands wiping her hair off her face. “Ya. Jo play.” She points to your friend who’s standing behind her. “She’s been making me run around for hours. How do you do this all the time?” 

You pick Vi up, walking towards the kitchen as you give her a bunch of kisses. “Lot’s of coffee and I have amazing people who help me.” Jo throws an arm around your shoulder walking with you. The table was already set, plates filled with food. “Yeah we are pretty amazing. So amazing that grams are giving us the night off.” You place Vi in her seat and look at Jo. “What do you mean?” 

She puts Vi’s food down in front of her before sitting to eat her own meal. “She means that you two are young and need to have fun. So I’ll stay here while this angel sleeps. Have fun for once.” June says as she makes her way back from what you assume is the bathroom. “Before you even try to say anything I told her she didn’t have to. She won’t take no for an answer so tough luck.” You don’t even argue, Jo’s parents always say she got her stubbornness from June so that is not a hill you want to die on.

Over dinner you tell them about your day. Explaining how you found out there were flowers missing and that you had to call for new ones. Finishing off your story telling with the asshole who thought he was special so that made him entitled to your flowers. “Sounds like a dick.” Jo said without thinking about the two year old sitting next to her. “Sorry.” June thought it was hilarious. Saying “it’s about time someone told those snobs the world doesn’t revolve around them.”

After dinner you spent time with Violet. Playing some more with her toys, then a bath to get the dirt off of her, and then reading bedtime stories to her. After each one she would let out a “nader'' informing you she wanted another story. The third one is always when she falls asleep, as soon as the first words are out so is she. Slowly and quietly you slip out of her bed and room.

“Ready?” Jo’s voice scared you, jumping from the fear shooting through your body. “For fucks sake Jo. Let me just change into a different shirt, I have Vi drool.” The other girls face twists in disgust as you pull that part of your shirt to show her. Not the worst thing you’ve had on you since becoming a mother but she still finds it gross. After changing the two of you head over to a bar.

The place actually looks really nice. There are lights strung up on the outside seating and the inside has amazing decorations. “What do you want? I’ll go get us the first round while you find us a table.” The first round? Damn Jo meant it when she said we will be living up the night. You haven’t really been out since your 21st, having a daughter doesn’t give you a lot of time to go out.

Plus you never really drank in highschool so this is a whole new ballpark for you. “Um I don’t know. Just get me something you will think I’ll like.” With that she was off to the bar as you found a table to sit at. The drink she came back with was in a tall glass and is yellow. You take it from her hands inspecting it. “What is it?” She rolls her eyes at you and takes a sip from her drink. “It’s a passion fruit mojito.”

You like passion fruit so this should be good. Oh yeah, that drink is delicious. You take a good few sips of it. “That’s fucking delicious.” Jo laughs at you. “Told you.” The two of you sit there for a while. Taking your time to finish your drinks. When they were done it was your turn to go up and get drinks. Since Jo is driving back she just wanted water but she insisted that you had to keep drinking.

The bar is a little more packed now, so you’re stuck waiting for the bartender to come around. Tapping your fingers lightly on the counter surface you space out, not realizing that the seat next to you was moving. “He won’t notice you for another five minutes. Blaire just sat down so he’ll be chatting her up for a bit.” The voice next to you sounds familiar, turning your head you can see why. “You again.” The guy from earlier smirks at you. “Now why does that sound like a bad thing?”

You look down at the other end of the bar to see the bartender flirting with a girl. Crap. “Maybe because you were rude and entitled. But hey what do I know?” Your brain is telling you to leave, just tell Jo you’ll go back up in a little. Then there’s a little voice in your head telling you to stay. For some reason there’s a part of you that is curious about the stranger.

“Pfft me entitled or rude? You’re the one who said that you wouldn’t let me order flowers.” Your eyes narrow at him, his arms shoot up in defense. “I know your shipment was fucked up.” He gives you a curious look. “I’ve never seen you before.”

“That’s because I just moved here. Don’t really know anyone besides my friend and her grandma.” You point back to Jo, his eyes following to see your friend with a wide eyed expression. “I don’t think I know her. Think I’ve seen her before but years ago.” He looks back at you, examining your facial features. You’re really pretty, he was too wrapped up in frustration earlier to notice. He’s sure noticing it now though. 

His chair seems to get closer to you, scraping against the sticky floors. “Where did you move from?” You had expected him to stop talking to you yet here he is asking you questions. “New York. I lived there my whole life.” He leans his arms on the counter, looking at you from the side. “Nice, I’ve been there a few times. Do have to say the pizza wasn’t actually good.” You gasp at his outrageous statement. “What? You’ve got to be joking, it's the best. You just didn’t go to the right places, probably some fancy restaurant that sells those tiny portions.”

He’s cracking a smile from your mini rant. You’re right, it was one of those restaurants. The ones where it cost $400 to just get a table and everything is super expensive even though it's a meal for ants. He’s never seen anything wrong with those places, grew up his whole life eating at them. In this moment he wishes that wasn’t the case, that he knew how to be a normal person and not someone with money. He would have never been caught at a dingy restaurant eating food yet here he is longing to experience that. An experience he didn’t know he was missing until your reaction.

“Oh my god it was one of those places. You can’t say you’ve been to New York if you haven’t really tried their food.” He turns on the stool so his legs are facing you. “Wouldn’t that technically be their food as well? They have high class restaurants there.” He likes the way your eyes roll at him, wanting them to do it in a different way. “That’s like going to Italy and eating at fast food places we have in America. Yeah it’s their version but it’s not actually Italian food.” “I would never. Italy is too perfect to not eat their food.”

You look at him, a smile plastered on your face. “Please don’t tell me you’ve been to Italy and I’m making a fool of myself.” He can’t help but to chuckle at how cute you are when you are nervous. “Alright I won’t say anything.” He shrugs. You let out a groan, of course he has. He looks like he has money so what else did you expect. “What can I get you?” 

The bartender cuts the moment the two of you were having. “Can I get a whiskey and whatever she’s having.” You look back at Jo and she sends you a thumbs up. “I’ll just have a passion fruit mojito.” The bartender leaves you two as he goes to make the drinks. “Wouldn’t have taken you as a mojito girl?” You look at him, blush forming on your cheeks. “Yeah? What kind of girl would you take me as?” He doesn’t know if you are flirting but he sure the hell hopes so. “Maybe a margarita. I feel like you’re a tequila girl.”

You giggle at the implication. “The last time I had tequila it got me in trouble.” It did, that’s how you ended up with a baby and being kicked out. “I like trouble.” Fuck. You had told yourself when moving here to just stick to yourself and everything will be fine. THen this guy walks in and you want to throw it all out the window. It’s not fair, he’s too hot to even say no to.

“You know I got to say I never met a florist as pretty as you” He tells you, leaning in closer but keeping a good distance. “Are you flirting with me so I can change my mind about those flowers?” He laughs, turning so he is now facing you, resting his weight on the counter top. “No, just flirting. Would it help me get them though?” Now it’s your turn to laugh. “You are not getting flowers. I would still have to prepare them and I wouldn’t get it done on time.Plus who knows if the reshipment will get here on time” You take a sip of your drink. 

“What if you had help?” Your eyes look into his. They're pretty. A shade of blue that in this light somewhat seems gray. They remind you of Vi, she had pretty blue eyes too, that she got from your mom. “You would hire help for me?” He scoots closer, his hand playing with the ends of your hair. “I could help you.” His fingers brush against your arms. The words seem to have an undertone of something. Simply suggesting something else. “How?”

The smirk that forms on his face makes you want to kiss him. His hand clears your face from stray strands of hair, eyes locking to yours. “However you want me.” This isn’t really feeling like you’re talking about flowers anymore. You aren’t sure if you should shut it down or keep going. The drinks were placed in front of you, he doesn’t take his eyes off of you as he hands the bartender his card. To relax yourself you take a sip of your drink, which only makes it worse. Now your relaxed mind can only think about dragging him off somewhere to see how much he could really help.

You’re interrupted before you can make a mistake. “Yo country club we gotta go.” A man walks up to the two of you. He nods at the guy. “Give me a sec.” The man looks at the both of you and shakes his head. “Aight five minutes.”

“Have somewhere to be?” He downs the rest of his whiskey. “Wish I didn’t.” Your blush intensifies. Shifting in your chiat you rest a hand on his lap. “Too bad. I was just starting to like you.” He stands up, catching your hand as it falls. “Guess I’ll have to refresh your memory tomorrow.” Your hand tightens around his. “Wait tomorrow?” 

“Gotta help you with those flowers right?” He actually meant it. “Fine.” He smiles and drops your hand, backing away from you. “I’m Rafe by the way.” You tell him your name, grab your drink and get up as well. “See you tomorrow beautiful.”

You smile all the way to the table, meeting Jo whose mouth was wide open. “Dude you were just flirting with Rafe Cameron.” You shrug your shoulders at you and sipping your drink “So what?” Her face flashes with different emotions. “So what? Dude he’s literally the richest person on this island. After his dad passed away he inherited the family business, he’s dumb rich.”

Jo won’t shut up about how hot the richest guy in Kildare was flirting with you. She gave you some of the run down on him from her “sources” on the island. Those sources being friends she made when she would visit. He apparently has a mean streak, causing fights with people. How he would sleep around with every girl and on top of that did drugs. It shouldn’t have shocked you but it was surprising to hear.

You thought over everything as you laid in bed. Rafe seemed funny and sweet when he talked to you in the bar. Those two versions of him do not seem to align together. Yet again you had only met him today and you don’t have the greatest track record with guys. It doesn’t matter anyway. You weren’t looking for anything anyway, all you needed to focus on was yourself and your daughter.

Taglist: @haruvalentine4321 @namelesslosers Let me know if you want to be added

[adventuringblind]

Pleaseeee part two of media relations!!!

Maybe J*s’ texts and comments to reader get brought up and Mac and Charles get all protective (maybe time skip with a mini verstappen 👀)

- 📚 @ireadthensuetheauthors

Media Relations Part Two

Max Verstappen x Reader

Genre: angst

Summary: Max and Charles get protective when Jos goes a bit to far.

Warnings: Jos Verstappen, lestappen if you squint, rough pregnancy and birth,

Notes: Reminder that I'm not a doctor :)

Masterlist

Charles had mixed feelings about the whole situation. Angry that Ferrari and Redbull screwed over his sister and friend. Happy that they don’t have to pretend to be in love anymore. Sad that she moved out of his apartment and into Max’s. Now he adds confused to his list.

The two had come over to his apartment for dinner. He wanted to show his appreciation for his sister and what she'd tried to do for him regardless of if falling through.

The female, though, had been anxiously eyeing her phone screen. It had buzzed a few times against the table, but she hadn't picked it up. It looked like she was even getting farther away from it.

When she excused herself, Charles jumped on the opportunity. "Is she okay? She's been acting a bit strangley."

Max sighs and stares at her empty place at the table. "She insists everything is fine, but you and I have known her long enough to see when something is off." Max looks at Charles, and the Monegasque can see the worry on his face. "She's been eating less and has barely touched her phone. She hasn't talked to anyone outside of me or you in a while."

"Yes, I know. My mother is getting worried about her."

Both of them had come to the conclusion that it's possible she's just going through a rough patch.

~

It's crazy how things change over the course of a year. Her and Max had been flourishing. Absolutely in love.

Max had been planning on proposing. Even going to Charles to ask his blessing.

The Dutch had yet to learn that plans change on a whim. That when he found his hopefully soon to be fiance crying on the bathroom floor of his hotel room his world would be changed again.

He sets himself down onto the floor and pulls her into him.

“I’m sorry.” She whimpers, handing Max a plastic stick. Ten of them, actually.

“You’re pregnant?”

She starts sobbing again but Max feels the opposite. He’s all smiles and warmth.

It’s not shocking she’s upset. Not to him, at least. She’s been on the receiving end of hate over the last year. Someone had leaked that they were originally doing this for a contract. Another reason Max wants to marry her. Help her insecurities about the whole thing.

“There is no reason to apologize.” He kisses her head.

“Your not mad at me? What if this is another distraction?”

“Another distraction? Where did you get that idea?”

She freezes. Her chest was barely moving. “No reason - just my brain being dumb." She starts wiping her tears away, but Max moves her hands aside and does it for her.

"Marry me?"

"What?"

“Marry me, please.” It was supposed to be romantic. He’ll make it romantic eventually. But as he stares at the smile on her face and shine in her eyes, he knew he made the right choice/

“Yes.”

~

Charles was the first to know. She’d called him much more excited then when Max had found her on the floor. She had yet to tell him about the threats she’d been receiving. He had his own things to worry about, specially with the contract leak. She didn’t want to bother him with her problems.

She’s two months in and laying on the floor in Charles apartment waiting for Max to come get her. “Charlie, what if this is a bad idea?”

Charles looks up from his phone. “What is a bad idea?”

“Max, the baby, everything I’ve ever done in my life.” She sighs.

Charles rolls his eyes at her. “You used to never ask these questions. I think there is something else going on.”

“Nothing at all.”

Charles once again want to push for answers. She got better for a while. Now she’s worse again. The truth is that mental health is not a straight road and he knows that, but he wishes for nothing more then his sister to communicate with him.

~

Four months now. She’s struggling worse then she ever has been. She loves Max with every fiber of her being. Yet she can’t bring herself to tell him the vile things Jos whispers to her when he’s not around or the texts she receives whenever he catches wind of what they do in their off time.

She’s struggling with the pregnancy in and it’s only been three months. She’s had to stay with her mother while Max is traveling. The doctor keeping a close eye on her.

She didn’t want to be a problem while he’s working. Maybe that’s the reason he’s dominating right now. She’s not there to Interfere.

She knows Max loves her. It’s what she clings to daily. The reason she pulls herself together every morning despite the fans and Jos.

It’s the thought that puts her to sleep as she curls up in bed and dreams of him.

Jos leaves with a huff when he gets no response.

Is the pain supposed to be this bad? Where’s her phone? Everything is fuzzy and if she could just find someone who could help her maybe she’d be okay.

But the exhaustion hits to soon. The floor becoming her new home.

~

Seven months. She’s going to see him race seven months pregnant. It’s the last race before summer break. She wanted to see at least one race before they go on holiday.

That’s how she got herself here. Standing in hospitality with Jos Verstappen.

She needs Max. Jos had been not so subtly telling her she shouldn’t be here. She’d turned her brain off after the first paragraph.

Her water had broken after the second.

She needs Max. Or Charles. Or literally anyone at this point.

“Are you even listening to me?!” When did he get so close? She’s three months early so the stress of the situation must have cause an early labor. It doesn’t help that she’s not listening and the feeling of liquid on her leg isn’t helping.

~

“Charles! Have you seen your sister anywhere?” Max gets the Monegasque’s attention.

Charles spins on his heels to face him. “She was in the Redbull garage last time I heard from her. Have you tried hospitality?”

“No, not yet. Might be a bit stupid for that one.” He chuckles.

“Mind if I come with? She looked pale when I left her before the race.”

“Only if you’re okay with the stares.” They both laugh and chat on the way. Since the female Leclerc has become a common factor between them, they’ve grown into quite the pair themselves.

They walk leisurely together through the paddock until Max catches sight of his father. The older male stomps in their direction.

"Tell that girl of yours to be more respectful." He shoves past Max and continues his fit straight through the lines of people.

Max rolls his eyes. His fiancé hadn't hesitated to stand up to his father in the past when it came to him. She was willing to fight anyone for people she cares about. Most likely, that's what happened.

Though there is a feeling in his gut that something else is going on. He and Charles now jog to the entrance.

Why are there so many people around?

His eyes fall to the figure on the floor, and he freezes. Clueless on what to do.

"We've called an ambulance for her." Says somone in the area. He can't tell who. Everyone's voices are swimming.

Charles' hand on his shoulder shakes him from his trance. Max's body is kneeling next to her in seconds.

Charles is calling his mother. She knows everything about her recent medical history forwards and backward.

"She's in labor, I think." Says a different female.

Labor? She's three months early. His mind is reeling, and he knows he needs to get a grip.

He looks at Charles for any sort of support, but the Monegasque is ranting in reach over the phone. Charles does catch his gaze, however, sliding to the floor on the other side of her.

It feels like an eternity until the ambulance gets there. Then Max and Charles are driving to meet her there.

Of course, it's the one week they are in a different country with no family around. He'd texted Christian, the Austrian was more than understanding. He even said he can't wait to meet the mini Verstappen.

The realization hadn't sunk in that he's going to become a father here shortly. "Charles I'm going to be a dad."

"And I'm going to be an uncle. We've known this for a while, mate." Charles is smiling, but Max can see the fear behind his eyes. Passing out is never a good sign.

~

Max is brought back to her room immediately. Charles had to wait for now until she could give permission. Apperently, she'd woken up screaming for Max.

It was too late for any kind of pain medication. The labor was induced by stress. Things didn't look like they should, and Max was panicking when they told him.

They get him sanitized so he can go in the room, and he dosen't know what to do. So he does the one thing he knows how to do and holds her hand.

"Max, it hurts so much." He can see the sweat and tears in her eyes.

It's long and tiring on her end.

But the sound of her baby's cries are all worth it.

~

Charles gets to go see them hours later when she's cleaned up. She looks exhausted when he peeks in the door. The baby lays peacefully on her chest.

Max is sitting next to her, waving him in with a massive grin.

"Charlie." She whispers. "Meet Jules." A baby boy is handed over to him and he dosen't know what to do with himself.

"How are you feeling?"

"Tired and sore. Where is maman?"

"She'll be here as soon as she can." He smooths some hair out if her face.

"Charles, can I talk to you outside for a moment?" The Monegasque nods his head and hands the tiny body back to his sister.

Him and Max step outside the door, it shutting behind them with a small click.

"They said it was a stress induced labor. She suffered immensely because of it. Both her and the baby are going to need extra care for a little bit." Max explains.

Charles can hear the waiver in his voice. "Stress from what? The race ended perfectly." Charles taps his chin. His brain trying to think back.

"Do you - do you think it could have been my dad?" Max asks. Teary-eyed and exhausted, the Dutch doesn't know what else it could be.

"You don't think?-"

~

Max creeps back out of the room a second later. His lover and son asleep on the bed.

He clutches her phone in his hand. "I don't like invading her privacy."

"She's been scared of her phone for around two years now. I think we need to look for her safety and health."

Max unlocks the phone and sees a million unread messages. The majority is from an unsaved number.

Max keels over when he reads them. It's his dad's number. He'd texted his dad when the baby was delivered. He's coming to the hospital shortly to visit.

He feels idiotic. How had he not caught this sooner?

Charles helps Max back to his feet. "My dad's been sending her threats. Convincing her not to come to races. Telling her my success is better when she's not around to distract me." Saying the words out loud makes him feel sick again.

Charles takes the phone from his hands and scrolls through the messages so he disent have too. "I don't like how he calls the baby a parasite." He scrunchs up his nose in disgust.

Charles turns off the phone and grabs Max by the shoulders. "You cannot blame yourself for this. It's your dad, and you are not him. You are gentle and kind, and you've treated my sister better than I could've asked for." Max dries his eyes and nods his head.

She and his son both need him now.

~

Everything hurts. Her body feels weak and exhausted. But her mind hasn't been this elated in months.

Jules is lying on her chest. The name was something her and Charles fought over. Having then losing their godfather made them both want it. So it was decided that whoever had a child first gets the name.

Why does everything hurt so much? Charles and Max had to run back to the track to get their stuff but promised they'd be right back. That was twenty minutes ago, meaning they'll be back shortly.

When there's a knock at the door, she's surprised. Maybe her nap was longer then she thought?

Then, a familiar unfriendly face appears inside. "You had one job."

"Please get out."

"I told you to get rid of that thing." He snarls. Her mind is reeling, and the shouting wakes the baby.

She's crying as well, and his antics are doing nothing for her pain. Her heart rate was going up. She could hear it on the monitor.

She's frozen. The pain she felt from their last encounter back in full force.

She screams this time its so bad.

Max and Charles come running in the room. She didn't know how long she'd been screaming, but it was enough that people had heard.

Charles runs back out, yelling the word security.

Max's voice is fuzzy, but he's here. Her heart calmed with his presence. The beeping noise now less intense.

There are a few nurses around. One to take the baby, which makes her panic again. Another is to get her to breathe and give her something for the pain.

"You need to leave. I know what you've been doing now." Max seethes. He doesn't raise his voice, but he doesn't need to. His tone is enough to say everything and more.

They start speaking in Dutch. She can't keep up with it. She's too busy attempting to get Jules back anyway. Jos had threatened to take the baby a few times and being sperated like this with him in the room was doing nothing for her anxiety.

Charles comes back with security, who escort him out of the building. The room goes silent as he leaves.

"I told him never to speak to us again." Max is breathing heavily, and for a moment, she thinks she misheard. "I told him what he did is unforgivable, and he is never to speak to us again."

They both cry this time. The nurses leave them, and Charles is left holding Jules until the two calm down.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't want to ruin your relationship with him." She chokes. "I didn't want to be a hindrance for you or another problem to worry about."

All the hate she's received the past few years is not something she'd ever wish on someone. She just wants to live peacefully with her family.

"You have no reason to apologize. None of that is on you. They are jealous of you, and my dad is plain evil."

Max leans his forehead against hers. "We have our own little family now. I don't care what anyone has to say, I'm going to fight for it always."

[sweetlittlegingy]

I Couldn't Ask For Anything Better

✦ Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Better Man Universe

✦Pairing: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Single!Mother

✦Word Count: 9.3k

✦Warnings: Smut (finally), Daddy kink, unprotected sex, Pure fluff, Dad!Jake, Dagger squad fluff, just adorableness, miscarriage mentioned, angsty ending

✦A/n: Holy Crap! this took forever to write, I hope you guys love it!

✦Library (Follow for updates! I no longer have a taglist.)

You had been working on getting Jake’s cake ready, you and Mathew decorated it last night and now you were just getting it in a portable cake container. It was Jake’s 35th birthday and the whole gang was celebrating on the beach in front of the Hard Deck.

Penny had a grill set up on the deck, which the guys planned on doing a bbq on, while Nat, Penny, and Lacey planned on bringing sides. You had been put in charge of the cake, and thought they hadn’t told you; you took it upon yourself to get the drinks. You’d made sure that every possible drink request and type had been met, an array of sodas and alcohol stay in a cooler, already out in the back of Jake’s truck.

Your parents got called away on a conference, and even with your father retired, the Navy still asked him to make appearances. You had all gone to your parent’s house last week for a small birthday dinner, knowing that they would be missed today, your mother and father were insistent on it. They loved Jake and wanted to still have a special day for him. Plus, the kids were more than happy about getting to celebrate and have cake twice. Even though Josephine was only 13 months, she already had a sweet tooth like her father and Mathew loved anything chocolate in general.

You situate the cake in the container, making sure not to mess up the happy birthday candies that Mathew had placed on it. The brightly colored candies, stick out against the white frosting covering the chocolate cake and spell out Happy Birthday Daddy. Per Jake's request, it was a recipe that his momma had given you the last time you visited and with them not being able to make the trip this year, Jake had specifically asked for this cake. You knew that he hated not seeing them, although you had gone and visited last month for Josephine’s first birthday and celebrated Jake’s as well, it wasn’t the same.

Your attention is quickly taken away from the task at hand, by the high-pitched squeal and sound of tiny feet running down the hallway. Making sure that the cake is stable on the counter, you glance back and see Josephine running towards your legs.

Duck towel on her head, and still wet from the bath, she clutches at your leg and her eyes stay focused on the hallway she’d just ran from. Tiny strawberry blonde curls peek out from beneath the towel, as her body shakes in excitement against your leg.

“Josephine Elizabeth Seresin, I wasn’t done drying you.” 

Moments later Jake appears, T-shirt soaked and slightly panting. The laugh that falls from your lips doesn't help the situation at all. As your daughter glances up at you and sees you laughing, then looks at her father and laughs even more.

“You alright there, Daddy?” Your tone is teasing and has Jake not only coming for Josephine, but for you as well.

His hands make quick work, at grabbing Josephine and wrapping her in the towel, before grasping onto your waist and pinching at your hips. You jump back slightly against the counter, laughing until you hit the cake and it almost falls. Your laugh ceases immediately as you glare at Jake slightly, then turn to push the cake farther on the counter.

 “Don't tickle me around the cake, we worked hard on it.” Your tone is still light and airy, even as you try and put on a hard reprimanding facade for the birthday boy.

Josephine clearly agrees with you, as her little fists pat on Jake’s chest.

“Dada, da da da”

Jake’s gaze casts down at Jos, and his eyes watch her with the most lovesick, heart-wrenching stare, that makes your toes curl. Jake has always been great with Maty, but seeing him with Jos from birth to now, set off a deep need to have at least 10 more babies with the man.

“Yes, baby! You're such a smart girl.”

His finger comes to bop her on the nose as he says it, a gummy smile giggles back at him from the action. You stare at the pair, so happy and in love with the family you've created. The matching green eyes and shade of red hair she got from Jake’s mother, was a telltale sign that she was overwhelmingly an all-around Seresin.

The quietness of the house pauses the sweet moment and has your eyes glancing around in search of Maty. Though you find nothing amiss, and the strange silence can only mean one thing, your 8-year-old was up to something and trying to hide it.

“Honey did you see Maty, when you were taming the monster?”

You bring your hand up and tickle Jos’ belly when you say it. Her little form wiggles in Jake’s arms, as she climbs farther up his torso and wraps her arms tightly around his neck. Jake’s hands find her waist and bring her back down to settle on his hip, completely unfazed by the wiggly toddler.

“Yeah, he's in his room packing a bag, something about him and Amelia playing a trick Mav.”

You eye each other cautiously, waiting for the other to decide whether you're gonna let them have their fun, or if you need to stop the prank. Your head slips side to side, and you bite your bottom lip as you weigh the possible outcomes.

“I mean they're kids, come on, we should just let them have their fun. Right?”

Jake maintains a straight face, not once cracking a smirk while nodding his head along with the plan. Josephine looks between the both of you and starts copying Jake, rigorously nodding her head too.

“Yeah, but if anyone questions us later whether we knew, the answer is no, baby. It's always no.”

The stern facade cracks sightly, Jake no longer being able to hold his laughter and you both end up laughing. Slightly excited about the possible outcome, that an 8-year-old and a 13-year-old were going to pull on the 58-year-old man.

You reach over to grab Josephine from Jake and lean in to give him a quick kiss. Your lips remain resting against his for a minute, though it's long enough for Josephine to start smacking your cheeks. You pull away eyeing the little girl, before over exaggeratingly leaning in, to kiss at her cheeks.

“I shall get the Princess ready in her party dress.” The soft raspberry you blow on her belly, has her laughing incessantly. “While Daddy goes and handles his mini-me.” Your eyebrows raise at Jake, and a teasing smirk rests on your lips.

“I can't help it if he wants to take after his father, who might I add is the best.”

Jake casts a wink your way, with a shake of the head and a laugh, you're walking off down the hallway. Though before you can get far, you feel a harsh smack land on your ass cheek.

“He's got good taste like his Mama.”

You only shake your head, used to his antics, and lean into pepper kisses across Jos’ face.

“Your Daddy is crazy, baby.” your voice raises to a higher octave as you say it, and Josephine pats your cheeks while humming. “Yes, he is. Absolutely crazy!”

…

You glance at the watch on your wrist, before putting in your earrings and take one final glance in the mirror. Josephine sits on the bathroom counter, clapping while watching you and babbling absolute gibberish. You smile at her, then grab her and sit her on your hip. The both of you glance in the mirror, and the high-pitch shrike she does makes you laugh. Adorning your frames were matching yellow sundresses and white cardigans, that Jake had picked out and requested you wore for his birthday. The matching bows you had placed in Josephine’s hair with her space buns, completed the look and you could help but to snap a few pictures of her.

“Come on my darling, let’s see if daddy and bubba are ready.”

Moving through the master bedroom, you can hear Mathew and Jake talking while in the bathroom.

“– it has to be to the left.”

“I know bud, but mom usually does your hair.”

Your eyebrow quirks at the conversation, and a laugh falls from your lips when you see the duo standing in front of the mirror. The hair gel sits open on the counter and Jake has a comb in his mouth while trying to style Mathew’s hair. His difficulty is clearly on display, as he stares at the massive cowlick in Maty’s hair, making it harder to style.

“Everything okay in here?

Jake huffs at you in reply, his back still turned to you as he works on Maty, clearly not finding the situation as funny as you did. You move closer to the pair, Jos settled in one arm while you reach out for the comb. It only takes a second for you to sweep Mathew’s hair to the left, and tame the few pieces of hair.

“I thought you were the best?” Your tone is teasing as you place the comb back into Jake’s open hand, though the pout resting on his lips has you giving him a kiss.

“Don’t worry baby, I won’t tell anyone.”

“Yeah, you better not, I’m the birthday boy.”

You laugh at the statement and pat Jake's chest, calling out to the pair that it was time to go as you leave the bathroom. You grab the cake, though it is quickly taken from you as Jake sends you out to the truck, to get the kids buckled. You situate Jos in her car seat, while Mathew buckles himself across from her.

“All set?”

You glance back at Jake as he rounds the truck, and Mathew gives him a thumbs up while Josephine giggles as your hands dance across her belly. Jake’s hand settles on your lower back, which slowly starts to dip down and grab your butt, as he places the cake underneath Jos’ car seat.

With a spin, you push the door close and are met with a smirking Jake, whose hand has now moved to clutch at the material flowing over your hips. Though one hand raises slowly, tracing up your torso and across the sweetheart neckline.

“Aren’t you the prettiest little present, I can’t wait to unwrap you.”

The finger tracing your neck plucks at your dress teasingly, and your breath hitches as Jake ghosts his lips across your neck. Though he pulls away just before his lips meet your skin, and gives you a sly wink.

“Come on Sweets. The sooner we get there, the soon I get you home and in bed.”

…

Before you can even get Josephine out of her car seat, Mathew is out of the car and running for Bradley. The echo of laughter lets you know that he has in fact reached his uncle and that Bradley is already riling him up.

You unfasten the straps of Jos’ car seat and pull her out onto your chest.

“Where’s my babygirl?”

You laugh as you glance over your shoulder and find Lacey making her way to you. Her hands remain facing out, making grabby gestures at Jos. Who in turn starts laughing and reaches for her Auntie.

“What are you gonna do if yours is a girl?” Your tone is teasing as Lacey grabs Josephine, and rests her on her hip. Her small bump peeks out from under the sundress she wears, and you can’t help but smile at how your best friend is glowing. She was officially 4 months last week and the morning sickness had finally subsided.

“I think it’s a boy, but if it’s a girl, who says I can’t have two babygirls.”

“I’m not sure what I think the munchkin is. Though I do think that Bobby as a girl dad, would be adorable.” 

You turn to grab the cake, though before you can even start for the beach Javy is at your side taking it from you. You huff slightly in annoyance and both he and Lacey give to small glares.

“I’m not broken.”

Javy releases a heavy sigh at your comment, before wrapping his free hand around and pulling you into his chest.

“We know that, but the doctor still wants you to take it easy.” You go to interrupt him, though you're quickly shushed. “Don’t even say he didn’t, Jake keeps us updated and we all worry. You don’t know how scared we all were.”

You melt into Javy’s chest as he places a kiss on the top of your head, silent tears roll down your face and Lacey grasps onto to the both of you for a group hug. Planted right in the middle of you three sits Jos, who has now climbed into Javy’s arms.

The hug is broken up when you feel hands wrap around your waist and tug you slightly. Jake's cologne clouds your senses, and you fall back into his arms, as Javy and Lacey head to the group. You turn in Jake's arms and nuzzle into his chest. One hand stays wrapped around your waist, as the other moves to stroke the back of your head. His hand moves slowly, before it’s under your chin and making you look at him. The tears lining your eyes are hard to hide and you feel horrible as you see a silver lining forming on Jake’s water line.

“I wasn’t supposed to cry today, it’s your birthday.”

You try to hide the pain with a small laugh, though it does nothing to cover up the quiver in your lip.

“Sweets, there is no rule that states that you can only mourn at certain times and that you have to hide your emotions at other times.” The hand stroking your cheek brushes the falling tears away, as you nod in answer, and a lone hand brushes against your stomach.

“I just wanted today to be happy, but it feels like a part of us is missing.”

Jake wraps his arms around you tighter as the last word falls from your lips and a choked sob releases from your chest. You can feel the multiple kisses that Jake lays on the crown of your head, and you can’t help but to feel bad. Today was Jake's birthday, it was supposed to be full of celebration. Though seeing Lacey’s sweet little bump and Javy wanting to help was just too much.

It had been two months since you had lost your little angel. The small blip in time from the moment you found out you were pregnant, to losing them at four and half months felt so far away, but also like it was yesterday at the same time. It wasn’t just the pain of losing them that consumed you, but you were terrified of forgetting them. Of your memory faltering and forgetting the small butterfly flutter in your stomach, and how their heartbeat sounded.

The past eight weeks had been hell on you and Jake. You had tried to be there for him whenever he broke down, but it always seemed to trigger your own tears and left him to comfort you. The doctor had put you on an anti-depressant right after the miscarriage, given that you had a history of depression. They helped slightly, but it wasn’t only a chemical imbalance, the loss had taken a piece of your heart.

“It’s going to be okay, Sweets. I promise.”

The statement comforts you and a small smile graces your lips. Jake had never broken a promise to you, in the beginning of your friendship it had been silly promises, but as time went on bigger promises were made. To you, to the kids, and not one of them had ever been broken. Jacob Grant Seresin was nothing if not a man of his word.

With a deep breath you nod, his words on repeat in your head, and when you smile at Jake, it’s not fake or forced. No, this smile was one of love and thankfulness that you had found such an amazing man to father your children and to spend eternity with. Your left-hand rises to rest on Jake’s cheek, the light sparkles off of your wedding ring, as you pull his lips down to meet yours. It’s simple and sweet, but oh so meaningful, and when you pull away your foreheads rest together.

“I love you. Thank you for always healing my heart.”

A delicate kiss is placed once more on your lips, just a peck, before he pulls away. Both of his hands rest on your cheeks, lifting your face to meet his eyes. They stare into your soul, sharing every little piece of pain, depression, love, and joy that has made up your world together. Your hands rise to grasp onto his, a silent gesture that it would always be you and him against to world.

“I love you; I will always love you. Don’t ever forget that baby.”

Jake’s hand slips from your face and creases your arms before linking your fingers together.

“Now come on, I’ve been thinking about that cake since yesterday.”

Your laugh is light and causes Jake to smile as well. His hands tug gently on yours as he turns and pulls you down to the beach.

You wait for the stares of pity from your friends, though find none. Not one of them mentions your tear-stained cheeks, and you're thankful when Penny makes her way over to you and sweeps you away.

“Go man the grill, I don’t trust Bradley to not burn everything.” The demand is thrown over her shoulder at Jake, who only winks at you and lets out a ‘yes ma’am.”

“The cake looks great, and Phoenix has continually been on cake watch. Considering each of the boys has tried to swipe frosting from it.”

You laugh at Penny’s words, though you full-on belly laugh when you see Nat standing, practically on top, of the cake with her arms crossed. Her eyes are set in a glare towards Bradley, though moves to you, and a smile instantly forms.

“I hear you’ve got a pretty tough job.”

She slips at her drink while shrugging her shoulders to you. It’s rare to see Nat in dresses, though the sun dress she wears now fits her perfectly.

“It gave me a reason to smack Roo, so it was a win for me.”

“I’m kind of sad that I missed it.”

You feel a body brush passed you, as little hands reach out to you. Josephine grabs onto you easily and nuzzles into your chest. Your hand moves up and down her back, and the motion brings comfort to the both of you.

“Oh, don’t worry, they’ve been plotting.”

Lacey nods behind you and when you turn, you’re met with the group of seven pilots looking toward the sky, trying to hide the fact that you had just caught them staring. A laugh falls from your chest, though it ceases quickly when a whine comes from a now-sleeping Jos. Your hand gently rubs at the back of her head, while you mutter sweet nothing into her ear. The growing toddler falls back to sleep easily as you sway with her.

“Wanna make a bet?”

Nat and Lacey, both give you questioning looks, though Penny only laughs at your antics. You had always been up for a challenge or bet, especially when you were positive that you would win. You glance back to the pilots one last time, thinking for a moment.

“Give it 20 minutes and it’s gonna be Javy.”

“Why are you so sure?”

The pair of them watch you, trying to figure out what exactly you’re picking up on that they aren’t.

“Bradley already knows you’re on full alert, Bobby is too scared of pregnant Lace,” the comment earns you a small ‘hey’ in protest, though she ends up laughing. “And Jake, well he knows better. Mav, Mick, and Rueben are all bystanders, which leaves Javy.”

All three of you turn to face the boys fully, giving them a smile and wave, with the hand not holding Jos. It’s a small taunt and their reactions only prove that you know how to get under their skin.

“Javy is unofficially my third child, and I know him like the back of my hand, but he also knows me. Meaning that he might tell the boys he’s going to do something, but if he knows somethings going to upset me, he won’t to do.”

The girl's hum as they listen to you, all three sets of eyes never leaving the boys. You wave one last time, then turn back towards Pen, she has Josephine’s baby beach tent set up and ready to go. The soft snores that emit from Jos' signal that she is passed out and that she wouldn’t stir when you laid her down.

Lacey and Nat continue chatting, while you settle on the beach towel with Penny. She wraps an arm around you and lays a kiss on your temple, then clasps your hand in hers and gives you a gentle squeeze. Your sister had always been someone that you leaned on when you were younger, and over the years you had slowly stopped telling her all the traumatic details in fear, that she would see you as a burden.

Though in the last two months, besides Jake, Penny had been your rock and had experienced a good number of your breakdowns. Your parents had been wonderful, helping with Maty and Jos, and being there for both you and Jake. But it wasn’t the same, you had always been the golden girl in their eyes, even when you got pregnant with Mathew and had to leave flight school. Your father had been sad, but never held it against you, and the thought of them seeing you like this. They wouldn’t ever look at you the same if they knew how damaged you were.

“Your one-year anniversary is coming up soon,” She nudges your shoulder as she says it, and a small smile forms on your lips. “I meant it when I said I would watch the kids. I think it would be good for the both of you to get away for the weekend.”

“I know, thank you, you really are the best big sister. We both need a weekend of just us, it's just been hard.”

Penny nods in understanding though doesn’t say anything. She knew that if you talked about it the both of you would cry and she wanted nothing more than for you to have a great day.

“Though speaking of anniversaries, Maty’s adoption one is coming up. Right?”

At the mention of Jake finally adopting Mathew, a full smile breaks out across your face. “Yeah, the first week in July. Which is so weird, because Jake has been his dad since he was two, but he is finally getting to change his name. It felt like all the pieces finally fit together.” You laugh slightly, thinking about Mathew’s request in the whole ordeal. “Jake always knew that Mathew loved him, I mean look at them.” You gesture over to the guys again, though this time a game of dogfight football had broken out. Jake had Mathew thrown over his shoulder and was booking it across the sand to the endzone, while Maty clutched onto the football in his arms. “I think that Mathew asking to have Grant as his middle name, really solidified it for Jake. We named Josephine after mom and Jake’s mother, so to have Mathew asked to be named after Jake, was a full circle moment.”

Your head leans over to rest against Penny, the pair of you content in watching your family. It’s not long before Nat and Lacey find a home on the towel next to you.

“I don’t want to ruin the day,” you glance back towards Penny, who looks apprehensive about whatever she wants to say “But, have you even heard from Adam, you know after you sent the papers off.”

A harsh sigh leaves your mouth, not at Pen but at the mention of your ex. You hated talking about him, but you knew that Penny was just asking out of worry. She had seen you have breakdowns at the thought of Adam, and she never wanted you to feel alone again. Another sigh falls from your lips, and you lay down on the towel. You relax against the sand and tug on both Penny’s and Lacey’s hands, who in turn tugs on Nat’s, and the four of you lie on the sand. Silently waiting for the metaphorical ball to drop.

“I wouldn’t have sent him the papers if the lawyer hadn’t strongly suggested it. Adam didn’t want to be on Mathew’s birth certificate, and his status with Mathew was deemed as abandonment.” Another sigh leaves your lips, both of your hands getting gently squeezed in support. “I guess it’s good that we have all of our bases covered, but I feel like I’m just waiting for him to show up. Like now that I’ve made this big step, he’s going to come back just to tear me down.”

“He’ll be getting his ass kicked if he shows up,” Nat had risen up on her elbows and was now staring at you. “And that’s just me. If the boys get ahold of him, he’s going to be lucky if he doesn’t leave in a body bag.”

Her eyes hold yours; it was her way of promising that you would be protected. That they would never let him put his hands on you again, and if he tried, he would instantly regret it.

“That’s the only fact, that lets me sleep soundly at night.”

…

The loud gasp, followed by the two high pitch squeals has your head turning from setting up the picnic table. You miss the prank, but you watch as the aftermath unfolds. A soaking-wet Maverick has taken off running after Amelia and Mathew, who both have taken off down the beach. You laugh as Mav comes to a slow jog and then walks, the two kids still running off in the distance. Next to you, Penny is in a fit of laughter, and the glare Mav gives her only makes it worse. His walk lands him in front of the two of you, pointing a figure at the both of you before reaching for a water.

“Both of them are trouble, just like their mothers.”

You stop laughing, really trying to feel bad for the man, though you’re laughing is set off again as Lacey reappears after using the restroom.

“What happened to you?” The question is so innocent, but it’s the icing on the cake. Mav only shakes his head at Lacey, and mutters quietly about the “hooligans.”

“What’d I say?”

“Don’t worry,” Your laughing slows as you motion Lacey over to you, “the kids decided to prank him.” 

An ahh sound of understanding with a nod of the head is only there momentary, as she starts laughing with you. The both of you work hand in hand to set up the tableware, placing the finishing touches as Jake comes over to you.

His sneaky hands wrap around your waist, and he places soft kisses along your neck. You lean back at the motion, resting your head on his shoulder, as he gently sways your bodies side to side.

“How is my birthday boy?”

The question only gets a hum in answer, as a string of kisses up your neck and onto your pulse point makes you giggle slightly. Your eyes had fallen shut, enjoying to small moment with your husband.

“How’s Jos doing?”  The question is whispered against your ear, and it has your eyes opening to glance at the beach tent.

“She perfect, like always. Napping soundly, though we are going to have to wake her up soon to eat.”

“Yeah, I saw that Penny brought some of that jello she ate at your parent's. She seems to do really good with it.”

This time it’s you that hums in acknowledgment, your eyes scanning the surrounding beach noticing the lack of your friends. You glance to the cake quickly, though find that it’s still there in perfect condition.

You turn in Jake's arms, and your eyes squint in questioning of the man, who remains calm and collected. You glance around the beach further and find Nat with Bradley at the grill, Pen and Mav up on the deck, while you see Lacey and Bobby down by the water with the kids. Your eyes fall back on Jake and the small smirk that he gives you is all you need to know that their plan was underway.

“Baby, where’s Javy?” The slight lift of your eyebrow does nothing to unsettle your husband. A small shrug is all you get, followed by a wink and a gentle squeeze on your hips.

“Jacob, I know you’re up to something and I’d suggest you think about this plan and the repercussions it may have.”

His hands only tighten on your hips even more, as his head drops back into a full laugh. “and what might those repercussions be my sweet girl.”

He’s teasing you, poking at that little button, because he knows you won’t really get mad at him on his birthday. Jake pulls you in slightly so that you're pressed near chest to chest and one of your hands rises to tap lightly on his chest. While your other hand comes to trace lightly along the sweetheart's neckline and causes Jake's eyes to drop immediately to your breasts.

“If anything happens to that cake before I get pictures of you blowing out the candles,” The hand resting on his chest slowly rises and tips Jake’s head back so that he is looking at you directly in the eyes. “There will be no unwrapping of your special present.”

Jake’s lips set in a hard line at your declaration and a small pout, forms on his lips. “Swee–”

“Nope, me and Maty worked hard on that cake, and by God, I will watch you blow out 35 candles. Don’t test me, Jacob.”

The harsh tone in your voice has a small sheepish look settling on his face, as his eyes move from the cake resting on the table and back to your breasts multiple times. With a heavy sigh, Jake’s hands fall farther to grab your ass, and his face comes to rest along the top of your breasts. His face nuzzles in and his teeth nip at your chest, as you bring your hands to the back of Jake’s head to stroke his hair and laugh at his antics.  

“I’m supposed to signal when I get you away,” The sentence is mumbled but you still understand.

“What were you planning to do with the cake Jacob.”

The sound of his full name has him pulling away from your chest and staring up into your eyes. His hands tighten on your ass and you normally would chastise him for groping you so freely out in public, though there aren’t any people close enough that you’re worried.

“Sweets, I don’t know. The boys just wanted the cake, and well –”

“You were peer pressured”

Jake scoffs at the words, and his hold has tightened even more. A small squeal leaves your lips, as you jump slightly in his hold and glare at the now-smirking man.

“Baby, I don’t get pressured into things.”

The small smirk you give Jake as he struggles for the correct words doesn’t go unnoticed. The small glare he gives you is adorable something you had expected. What you hadn’t expected was Jake to grab your waist and throw you over his shoulder, like he had been with Maty earlier today.

A shrill scream lips your lips, as your world spins upside down and the only thing you see is Jake’s tan back. Your hands grasp onto his sides, to stable yourself, and stop the sway of your body with every step he takes.

“Jacob Grant Seresin, you put me down right now.”

This laugh rings through the air and the shaking of his chest slightly shakes your body with it.

“No can do, darlin’.”

If only he could see the glare, you were giving him right now, he might change his mind. Though as a harsh smack lands on your ass and causes you to jump, you also think that the glare might have only egged him on even more.

“Your panties seem to be on just a little tight,” His hand ghosts just under the hem of your dress, grabbing at your inner thigh and lightly traces your heat. “don’t worry Sweets, daddy’s gonna fix that problem real quick.”

The sublet heat ignites in your core, and you shift slightly in Jake's hold, causing the hand on your thigh to brush up against your clothed cunt again. The moan that releases from your chest should embarrass you, though the laugh that Jake releases only has your panties damping further. You watch as the sand turns into the wooden deck of the bar, and you caught sight of a laughing Bradley and Natasha.

“Nix, you’re on baby duty. Jos is still sleeping, but me and the Mrs. have some business to attend to.” You hear the door open, the harsh light of the day disappearing, and shifts into the dim light seeping through the window blinds.

“Also, don’t touch that cake, Rooster. No one touches that damn cake while I’m gone.”

You just barely catch the yup from Bradley and the loud laugh that Nat releases, though you can’t help but to smile at Jake’s words. Your hands pinch at his side, grabbing Jake’s attention, before telling him thank you.

Just as quickly as you were thrown over his shoulder, Jake has you back on stable ground. His hands settle on your waist and push you back slightly. Your back bumps back against a wall, and as your chest heaves, you glance around to see where exactly you are.

You’re both tucked in one of the back corners of the Hard Deck, hidden away and out of sight right next to a spare pool table. The heaving of your chest slows, as you look back up at Jake and find his emerald, green eyes, replaced by a dark green with blown pupils that watch every move you make.

“You’re welcome darlin’, you should know that I’d never let anyone mess up something you worked so hard on, especially if it’s for me.” A cheeky wink and smirk grace Jake’s face, and they make you smile, as you nuzzle into his palm that had come to rest against your cheek.

“But since I am the birthday boy,” A finger traces along your cleavage, and brushes gently against the shell of your neck, causing you to tip your head back. “I want to open one of my presents early.”

“Jake –”

Your protest is cut off completely when Jake dips his head down and bites at your neck, smoothing over the nip with a lick of the tongue. A high-pitched whine releases from your lips as Jake slots his leg in between your thighs and brushes up against your pantie-clad heat. The hand tracing your chest moves up your frame and settles under your cardigan. Pushing it slightly off your shoulder, before his lips go back to work on you.

It’s too hot, and with every little movement that Jake makes he presses up again you, catching your clit against the lace of your panties. Your brain is no longer processing, as you pull off the light cardigan and throw it behind Jake. Your hands find purchase on Jake’s shoulders, grabbing on the tan skin as you keen with every nip he places on your neck.

Your chest is heaving as you tug on the back of Jake’s hair and slot your lips against his. It’s hot and needy, tugging and pulling more so than soft and loving. Jake only slightly licks at your lips and has you groaning in need. The moment of needy has Jake’s tongue slipping through your lips, as a soft battle ensues between the two of you.

You pull away gasping for a breath as Jake continues down your jawline, his hand working the skirt of your dress up and over your hips. Giving you the freedom to grind down on his thigh. The motion has you pulling back with a whimper, clit overly sensitive and pulsing. 

“No, no Sweets. Take what you need.”

Jake’s hands fall to your waist, pressing you down against his thigh as another whine slips from your lips. You can’t avoid the pressure though, as Jake moves your hips to his own accord. Pushing and pulling you, forcing you to ride his thigh as you hide away in his neck, nipping on his collarbone.

“Daddy–” your sentence is cut off when Jake sends a particularly hard thrust up, to jut against your weeping cunt.

“There’s my girl, such a pretty baby.”

You can only nod in answer, as one of Jake's hands slips up to cradle your face, and the thumb resting on your cheek slips between your lips. You nip and suck at his thumb, doe eyes focused up on Jake ready to be his good girl in any way that he asks. The look in your eyes sends him spiraling, before you know it his thumb has slipped from your mouth and he’s lifting you in the air.

Your heads dazed and foggy, consumed completely by the man holding you as he lays you on top of the pool table. You go to protest; you were at the Hard Deck and supposed to be celebrating Jake’s birthday of god’s sake. Though the words escape you when Jake’s fingers trace along your slit and rips the cloth from your aching heat.

The gentle trace of his fingers is everything and nothing all at once. Your back arches off the table and your head falls back as a low moan echoes from your chest, as Jake rolls your swollen clit between his fingers.

His laugh pulls you from the momentary bliss, as Jake looks down upon you strung out before him. Small babbles fall from your lips as you beg Jake for anything more, how you had gone from thinking with a clear mind to one that was completely hazy and your only focus was having Jake screw your brains out.

“Tell me what you want darlin’, use your words.”

He’s mocking you, with every shift of your hips trying to push down on the hand that is no longer tracing at your slit but resting heavily against your clit.

“Need you, Jakey.”

“Darlin’” His thumb moves in tight circles as he draws the word out, only pausing when you cry out. “You. Know. That’s. Not. My. Name.” Each word ends in a tap against your clit, that has your hands grasping out on the table looking for anything to hold on to.

“Daa– Daddy, Pleassseee.”

The name is just passed your lips and without any warning, Jake’s fingers fuck into you. Just barely easing in, before plunging knuckle deep and hitting the soft spongy spot that makes you keen.

“You gonna let me fuck you, Sweetheart? With all of our friends just outside.”

You can only nod in response, too focused on the way Jake’s fingers scissor in your heat. A chuckle leaves Jake’s lips again, though this time before you can react, Jake's free hand comes to wrap around the back of your neck and pulls you up to meet his chest. A low moan falls from your lips as Jake’s fingers reach even deeper in the new position and the palm of his hand brushes back and forth over your clit.

“Please” The plea falls from your lips in a mantra, and your hands wrap up around Jake’s neck to pull his lips down to your own. You melt into his touch, as his tongue slides into your mouth, coaxing your mouth in a dance of need and want.

He tastes like whiskey and malt, the crown and coke you made earlier is still potentate on his lips and you wonder if it’s your husband you’re getting drunk on, or the crown coating his tongue. Jake’s free hand cradles the back of your neck, woven into your hair and guiding you exactly how he wants. Your hips rock on their own accord, chasing a high that Jake is content to tease you with.

You lick into his mouth and your breath hitches in despair, as Jake pulls his hand from your weeping cunt. You watch, breathless as Jake brings his slick cover fingers to his mouth, moaning at the taste of your arousal and never breaking eye contact.

Jake had always been cheeky in the bedroom, how could he not, when he knew that just the sight of him shirtless had you panting like a bitch in heat. Though the wink that he gives you now, begging for him to touch you.

To fuck you, in any way that he wants. You would take anything from the man, so long as he touched you. Jake’s eyes fall from your blown ones and fall to your heaving chest. His hand trails down from your neck, to grip onto the top of your dress and yanks it down. The stitching of the fabric sounds like it has torn slightly, and it leaves the material to fall below your breast.

“Jake we still hav–”

Your words are stopped, as Jake’s hand grasps your cheeks and forces you to look up at him.

“Baby, shut up for me.”

The hand that’s not grasping your face works at your bra, pulling the cups down to expose your nipples. You squirm on the green of the pool table, as Jake ducks his head down and licks at one of your nipples, before biting it. His free hand works at your other nipple, and he plays your body like his own personal instrument. Coaxing every whine, moan, and hiss from you of his own accord.

The wanton moan you release as Jake tugs on the pebbled bead has his lips unlatching from your breast.

“Those are the only sounds I want to hear from you, darlin’.” Your eyes are clouded over, hanging on to every word that Jake tells you. “Though I’m not gonna stop you from begging, you always look so pretty when you get whiny and beg for me.”

The sound of the screen door slamming against the side of the wall has both of your eyes snapping in the direction of the bar. You're hidden back enough that you can’t see who comes in, though you hear Bradley’s voice ring out. He’s yelling at someone to get the extra ice from the back, it only takes a moment before the screen door is slamming again and the tension in your shoulders releases.

You were sure that the whole group knew you were fucking, and trusted that they would take care of the kids just fine. If they needed you, they would have already been yelling at you. Though the image of Bradley, Nat, Bob, and Lacey walking in on you and Jake fucking isn’t something you want to do again. It had been just after Jake had gotten home from a deployment when Penny and Maverick at offered to watch Maty for you. You hadn’t gotten pregnant with Jos yet, though you’re suspicious that she was conceived over the long weekend.

Your thoughts are quickly brought back to Jake, as you hear the zipper of his pants being pulled down. The sight of Jake's length has you drooling, the red tip leaks precum and you can help the whine that falls from you. A deep need to feel the weight of him on your tongue, to lick the salty tang off of him and relish in the way he fills your mouth. Your gaze is lethal, never wavering from Jake’s length not even when Jake chuckles. Though the tip of your chin up forces your eyes to leave it and look at into Jake lust filled, emerald eyes.

“Sweets, as much as I would love to have you on your knees, we don’t have the time.”

“Later?” Your hand grazes his cock, and you grasp the length. Your cloudy eyes drop from Jake’s, as you lean forward and spit onto the head. You use the precum and you spit as you stroke him, your grip tightening just slightly as you work around his girth.

“Whatever want baby.” His breath sounds ragged, fucked out by his own need for you. Your hand slips for his cock, as Jake grabs your thighs and yanks you to the edge of the pool table. Wrapping your legs around his waist, as your back falls to meet the green felt.

Your eyes catch sight of the swinging light fixture above you, and you watch it as it moves side to side. The harsh smack of Jake's cock against your clit makes you keen and has your back bowing in need. The arch pushes your cunt down towards Jake's cock, though he teases you, slipping the head along your slit and pushing into you before pulling back out.

“Daddy please need your cock, need you to fuck me.”

“I know baby, daddy’s got you.”

Your eyes roll to the back of your head, as Jake pushes his length into your aching cunt. Small whines and whimper roll off your lips as Jake bottom out, his hips coming flush with your ass. Your heat aches in need, and your hips rock to gain any type of friction.

“Nope baby,” Jake's hands grasp at your hips and stills your hips. “Feel me, Sweets. How well this pretty little pussy takes me, how you clench around me like a fucking vice.”

Jake’s breath turns ragged, as you clench down on him and the hands resting at your hips grasp at you, knuckles turning white and surly leaving fingerprints. The quick pull back from you makes you gasp, followed by a harsh thrust that you swear is in your stomach.

Jake's thrusts are harsh and uncontrolled, the both of you chasing a high, and as you lower one hand to work over your clit, needing the added pressure. Your hand is smacked away before it even touches the bundle of nerves, a protest ready to fall from your lips. Though in its place falls a deep moan, as Jake's thumb comes to rest on you, tight circles with the perfect pressure coaxing you to ecstasy.

“Baby… Daddyyyy”

His hips never falter as your hands grasp at the pool table, finding nothing to ground you. Your head tips back, your body moving against the green, with each of Jake's thrusts. He’s unrelenting as he works you over, a silent demand and need for you to find yours before he ever does.

“I know baby, let go. Come for daddy, like the good girl you are.”

His words send you spiraling and if you cared you might have stopped the moan that bursts from you. You should care as it echoes through the Hard Deck, surely alerting everyone of your pending climax. Though you don’t. The only thing you care about now was the burning heat in your core and the way Jake’s hands feel over your body.

Your eyes open and find Jake’s as a soft hand creases your cheek, the need, and lust ever present, but also a deep love that shines through as your husband watches you. With one final flick across your clit, your tumbling, begging and whining as you finally reach the peak before crashing into the abyss. Jake's hips only stutter slightly, as he works your through, his own release within reach.

“Where do you want it, Sweets?”

“In me Jake, please need to feel you.” The small plea as you clench around him has Jake peaking. His hips slow and he coats your walls, a deep moan falling from the both of you at the feeling of Jake’s cock pulsing within you. Pushing and pulling his cum back into you, fucking it into you, before he pulls out.

Jake's chest heaves as he looks down and your pulsing cunt, clenching around nothing and pushing his cum from your heat. Without a thought, Jake’s fingers scope at the mix of you both and pushes it back into your aching cunt. You’re sensitive and with every drag of his fingers you whine, you lift up onto your elbows so you both can watch as he fucks his cum back into you.

You bite your bottom lip, from not only how sensitive you now are, but also from how much you need Jake again. You could never tire of the man, though when he gets like this, it makes you practically insatiable. 

Though with one last push of the hand, Jake is pulling back from you and wrapping his lips around his cum cover fingers, winking at you before placing a peek against your lips. His hands find a home at your waist, as he pulls you from the pool table. He holds you steady as your legs shake, and places a gentle kiss against your temple.

“Still as sweet as ever, darlin’.”

The words are whispered into your ear and have you blushing. You push up on your toes to kiss Jake, hoping to avoid his gaze. Though the movement causes his cum to drip from your unclothed cunt, and the small squeak your release has Jake smiling in victory.

“You ripped my panties and my dress, Jacob. Everyone is gonna know.”

A harsh laugh falls from his lips before Jake grabs your cardigan and situates it back on your shoulders.

“Darlin’, people back home in Texas know. You’re not the quietest, especially when you climax.”

His words earn him a smack on the shoulder, as you move past him to go to the bathroom and right yourself before seeing everyone again. You glance back at the man, his eyes never leave your backside and the wide smile creasing his face is more than enough for you to not care if the whole world heard the two of you.

“Happy birthday, baby.”

“You best believe, I’m unwrapping the rest of my present when we get home. I still need to get my mouth on that sweet little cunt.”

You hum in response and smirk crossing your own lips as you shake your head that Jake’s words, before continuing to the bathroom.

“Hey Sweets,” the call has you pausing once again, spinning to face Jake and finding nothing but love in his eyes. “I love you.”

“I love you too, honey.”

…

The pair of you reemerge from the Hard Deck as if nothing happened, though both Nat and Lace give you teasing smiles as you make your way over. A small smirk makes its way to your lips, causing both girls to laugh and a deep blush to cover your cheeks.

Jake had gone over to check on Amelia and Maty when you came out, both Penny and Mav stationed close enough to watch the pair, but also giving them the space to goof off. You glance over to Josephine’s beach tent and find her just waking up. The movement of her little arms has you making your way to her, and as you cloud over her line of sight has a gummy smile marring her features.

“Hello, my beautiful girl.” You pick her up easily and cradle her against your chest, enjoying the way her little hands grab at you. “Did you have a wonderful nap?”

Mumbles fall from her lips and bubbles of spit dribble down her chin, as she answers you.

“Ma ma ma ma.”

You bounce her on your hip lightly as you walk back over to Lace and Nat. Everyone had gathered as Bradley showed up with the food and placed it in the middle of the table. Maty finds you easily and clasps onto your hip to give you a hug. Your free hand brushes the hair from his face before you move down to kiss the crown of his head. 

“Momma I couldn’t find dad’s candles. Auntie Nix helped me look, but they weren’t in the bag.”

Your brows crease in thought, trying to remember where you placed them. You were sure that you put them in the bag, though they could have fallen out in the truck.

“Don’t you worry, my love. I’m sure they are just in the truck.” The three of you make your way back over to Jake, who is now chatting with Javy about the plane they were restoring. Catching sight of her father, Jos starts trying to reach out for him. The high-pitch squeal of your daughter gains Jake’s attention immediately and he’s grasping for her to toss her in the air. You smile at the duo, and overwhelming pride and love fills your chest for your small family.

Javy is quick to grab Maty, flipping him upside down and tickling him. Jake looks at you as you settle at his side and places a kiss on your cheek.

“I’m going to run to the pickup, love. I think your candles feel under the seat.”

“I can go look, Sweets.”

“Nope, you’re the birthday boy and I’ll be quick.”

Jake hums in agreement, before placing a sweet kiss on your lips. You pull away, only to be met with another kiss on the nose.

“I’ll be right back, then we can start eating.”

…

Jake watches as you make your way to the parking lot, quietly wondering how he had gotten so lucky. Josephine grabbles in his lap, patting at his chest as Javy talks to her in a high-pitched over.

Jake laughs at the pair, Javy and Jos were the best of buddies, the two were on the same wavelength. The number of times that Jake had come back, after asking Javy to watch her for a bit, and they were both asleep was astounding.

Though he couldn’t be more thankful for the extended family, that his own little family had in the Dagger Squad. Jacob Seresin might have been a hard ass, but seeing how much any one of his teammates cared for his children, turned him into a puddle.

“Dad, momma’s still not back.”

Mathew had been patiently waiting, though as time passed, he couldn’t help but grow impatient.

“I’ll go check on her bubba.”

Though before he can hand Jos to Javy, Mathew is protesting. Telling both Jake and Javy that he was a big boy and could help. Jake chuckled at his son, hand ranking through his unruly hair before nodding in answer.

“Go on then.”

A smile broke out across Mathew’s face before he was taking off up the sand to the parking lot.

“Watch for cars.” Jake's voice echoed across the beach, gaining everyone’s attention as Mathew signaled back with a thumbs up, then disappeared.

Jake and Javy both went back to talking with Jos, as Jake bounced her lightly on his hip. The setting California sun casts a warm hue over the beach, and Jake couldn’t help but think of you and how much you loved the beach.

Especially at sunset.

Jake had grown to love it just as much as you had, the comfort from the waves and sea breeze had become a constant in your lives. The four of you were constantly at the beach whenever the family had downtime.

Though that constant sense of safety and calm was ripped right from his chest as a bone-chilling scream echoed out across the beach.

“Daddy!”

Jake was passing Josephine off to Javy without a second thought, and sprinting towards the edge of the beach. Nearly collapsing at the sight of Mathew's tear-stained face, barreling toward him.

[theloveinc]

FICS FOR GAZA: theloveinc's sponsor a WIP!

joining (i hope) @ficsforgaza's amazing project for those looking for a way to aid vetted fundraisers for palestine (i will also accept donations to vetted resources for sudan or congo). thank you for giving this post a look!

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WIPS - updated aug. 13, 2024 - i am happy to discuss anything specific you'd like to see included!

[JJK] toji x reader - on raising a single father’s kids and maybe sleeping with the guy, too? (a continuation of this concept!) (NSFW)

current wc: 1.2k of approx 2.5k words

donated: 0/1.3k words

progress: 0/1.3k words

TAGS: single father!toji, stepmom-ish!reader, megumi and tsumiki are his/your babies, birthday party type event for baby gumi... toji thanks you for setting things up by blowing your back out.

[GACHIAKUTA] enjin x reader - we don’t go to bed angry here (NSFW)

current wc: 400 of approx. 2k words

donated: 0/1.5k words

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TAGS: generic make-up fingering yay!

[BNHA] barbarian!bakugo x pregnant!reader - a lonely bachelor’s stray wife (concept here!)

choose your prompt:

prologue: he finds you

settling down: (epic fail)

after birth: baby is finally here!

running away: you're leaving (or so you think).

current wc: 400 of approx. 5-6k words (1.5k each prompt)

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TAGS: DARK/SERIOUS THEMES, strangers to lovers-ish, violence, mentions of prior sexual assault (not by kat), mentions of death, you don't want to be there, you don't even want your baby, barb!katsuki is paying his long overdue karma by trying to make you his family, you're confused, he's f*cking confused LOL???

[WIND BREAKER] multiple x abused!reader - (concept here!)

choose your prompt:

prologue: panic attack at the ori, two timing with bofurin

jo togame: chores at the ori, bleaching his… bright orange jacket?!

sugishita: play nurse, do hair

endo/chika: they surprise themselves by not even being mad

(want someone who isn't listed? just ask and we can discuss a prompt!)

current wc: 250 of approx. 8k words (2k each prompt)

donated: 0/8k words

progress: (prologue: 250/2k)

TAGS: DARK/SERIOUS CONTENT, hurt/comfort, talk of violence/injuries, domestic abuse, you're escaping your marriage, trying to make your own by work for both shishitoren and bofurin without the other knowing, not that they'd care but you don't know that, youre a mess and were told a lot of lies, essentially you're just hanging out trying not to let the trauma get you around all these violent boys lol!, even if they just want to protect u :(

[retnym]

WORLD TOUR- .05

"You aren't denying it."

Tomorrow will be our last show in our home country and due to that, we’re going to run some errands for the tour. Like getting food for the bus. Unfortunately, Bill and Georg can’t come. Bill has to do some voice lessons for my songs so he joins me in on stage. Due to my higher range, he needs a little bit of help with it. Georg is just visiting family before he leaves. They have a lot going on so they demanded they saw him.

So it’s just going to be me, Tom, Gustav, and Johanna. Jace wanted to come but I had to straight up tell him it’s just for the group and it’s okay if we spend a few hours away from each other. Ever since I got drunk he’s been overly clingy and I don’t know how to tell him to stop. In the same breath though we are leaving for about a year so I understand. I don’t exactly remember what happened the night I got drunk all I remember is smelling like beer and Tom following me to the bathroom? Then he was gone and Jace was there hugging me.

Bill told me Jace spilled beer on me and that’s why I stormed off to the bathroom but he never said anything about Tom joining. Why would he even go after me? 

This is why I don’t get drunk I hate not remembering things clearly. 

Jace keeps texting me but I’ve been ignoring the messages, I get he’s trying to make this work but he was right in the beginning, distance is not going to work for a year. If he really wants me and I want him he will wait. What sucks is everyone is getting along with him super well. He’s even growing on Tom. Tom of all people! 

But this day is not about Jace, it’s about errands that I need to run with the band members, plus Jo. 

Speaking of Jo, we’re currently driving to a food court before doing our actual errands.

“Is there a specific place I need to park?” I speak up, my eyes flickering around the area. “No, just the front with the sign.” Jo shrugs, pulling out my phone because she’s going to have to call Tom who was being a victim of Gustav’s driving. 

Even though we dislike each other I would never wish for someone to be a passenger to Gustav. Jo puts the phone up to my ear and it only rings twice before someone answers. “Hello?” It was Tom, I don’t know why I didn’t know that. 

“Hey, we just parked. Meet you inside?” I ask him, I actually just pulled into a spot but he doesn’t need to know every single detail. Taking the phone properly from Johanna. “Yeah, what are we eating?” 

“Mexican… I thought that’s what we agreed on.” I remind him, “Oh yeah, right. See you then.” He tells me and I just hum in response, ending the phone call. “That wasn’t awkward at all.” Jo laughs as we both unbuckle and get out of the car. 

We got inside and ordered everyone’s food, Johanna went to find a spot as I waited for the food to be ready. And of course, I know their orders, we’ve known each other practically since birth having to hang out so much you just tend to know things. “Hey, need help?” A voice rings out behind me, almost scaring me as I was holding a large tray with all the food on it. It was just Gustav with a lopsided smile, trying not to laugh at my face that obviously showed I just had a mini heart attack. 

“Yeah, you ass. Take the drinks.” He does as told and we make our way through the tiny crowd, getting to our seats where Tom and Johanna sat. I sat next to Jo and Gustav sat across from her. That left Tom in front of me. He was on his phone, quietly mumbling a thank you to me for paying and getting the stuff.

I watched as Gustav and Johanna were talking and laughed together. It made me so happy that they were getting along… maybe even having something more than that. Thinking about that brought me back to Jace sadly. 

I don’t know what’s stopping me from being with him. We were happy together for a year, it didn’t end on bad terms and he obviously really likes me. But something… something is just pausing all that and not letting me be happy with him. 

“[Name]!” Johanna taps me, and my body shivers as I lost the trance I didn’t even realize I was in. “Gustav has to leave. I’m going to drive him with his car.” She informs me and I raise a brow, confused. “Something happened with my brother, I don’t think it’s a good idea to drive.” He explains further, I just nod my head. My eyes scanned between the three of these people. They’re leaving me with Tom.

“Did you really not hear anything?” Tom questions me, I give him a look. “Obviously not.” I roll my eyes, looking back at the two who stood up, taking their food with them. “Um, I hope everything is okay. Be safe.” I stand up to hug them goodbye. We haven’t even been here for twenty minutes and they already got to go. They didn’t even waste a second to get out of there. I turn to Tom but he was already back on his phone and eating so I just continue to eat my own food as well.

As I finished up I started noticing all the fans around us, sneakily taking pictures or just freaking out about us being in public like we aren’t people too. Ignoring it I just put my napkins in the box with the little food left. “Want me to throw yours away?” 

His eyes look up from his screen and he looks down at his trash then just nods. “Cool, love not being answered with words.” I stand up, picking up both our things and then throwing them away. Once I walk back he was up and putting his phone away. “What’s first?” He asks.

“Dry cleaners for our one outfit for tomorrow and then this dark-looking store Bill needs something in.” I lead the way, he walks beside me and I bite my bottom lip, picking off the skin as I think about this situation. It’s mainly awkward but I’m nervous we’re going to blow up into an argument and I punch him again. 

“What’s wrong?” He scrunches his nose, looking at me up and down. “What?” I shrug my shoulders, not understanding what he’s saying. “You’re biting your bottom lip. You do that when you’re nervous about something.” He points out, pressing his lips together as he showed he was basically just stating the obvious. 

“Right, I’m thinking about how today is going to go. How it’s just you and I.” We get back to my car, we’re on either side of the vehicle now and we talk over the hood. “Nothing will happen on my end if that makes you feel better.” 

“How do I believe that?” I laugh. 

“Swear on Bill that we both won’t?” He sticks his pinky out over the hood and I go to take it but my arm is too short. We both snicker and just get into the car. “I swear,” I tell him as I start the car. “See.” He shrugs. 

We went to the dry cleaners and the darker store for Bill. It was easy in and out but the supermarket is where we’re going to take years in. 

“Wanna split up?” I face Tom after getting a shopping cart but his eyes just widen as he stares at me. “I’m going to take that as a no?” We start walking through the doors. “I don’t even remember what we’re getting.” He whines causing me to laugh mainly to myself. 

“Food, drinks, toiletries,” I say, we go into the fruit and veggies section first. His hand held onto the cart even though I was walking it. It was like he was a lost child having to follow me around. “What food are we getting?” 

“Well, Gustav and Jo want some fruit so that’s what we’re getting first. Do you want any?” I ask, stopping the cart in front of the berries, he hums randomly picking up a bag of apples to inspect it for some reason. I shake my head, trying to find specific cherries for Gustav. “Uh, I’ll just throw things in if I want it.” He tells me. 

“Ah alright, and you’re paying for said stuff with your own money?” I smirk to myself as I check out the cherries making sure they’re mainly not bruised and all that good stuff. He snaps his head my way. “I thought we had Bill’s card?” He brings up. 

“Yes but for his stuff.” I toss the cherries into the cart. “And I have all the boy’s cards.” 

“Why?” He quizzes, he was still holding the bag of apples but paying attention to me as I look at the other fruit. “They trusted me with them. They asked for specific things.” I enlighten him as he was acting like he was offended that no one trusted him with the cards. 

“Are you upset, Tommy?” I pretended to pout, he just flips me off in response causing me to laugh. “How are you so trustworthy?” He places his hands on his hips after putting the apples in the cart. I take a deep breath, looking up at him from the fruit. “How are you?” I rebuttal in defense.

“How am I not?” 

“You’re acting like a child Tommy.” I toss a few more things into the buggy, starting to walk to another section and Tom follows suit. He stays silent for a few moments and so I just go back to putting some vegetables into the baggies they give out not paying attention to the dreadhead anymore. 

Next thing I know he has a cucumber in my face. “You need this?” He waves it around and I just stare at him as he laughs. “Oh wait, you got Jace for that now.” He goes to place it down but my silence alarms him so his eyes are squinted as he looks up at me as if he knows so much already. “Are you guys not good anymore?” He picks the same cucumber back up.

“We’re fine.” I laugh, shoving the vegetable away from me. “I don’t know, your face is telling me otherwise.” He takes a baggy and puts it into there. I take a deep breath and try walking away from him but he just speeds up his pace to stay next to me. “Hey, it’s cool if you’re having issues.” He starts smacking the bagged cucumber on his hand. “We aren’t. And why would I replace him with a vegetable?” I keep the same fast pace and he started struggling to do the same as he grabbed onto his pants to keep them up. 

“Ah, you got a lil something in your drawer?” He smirks again, playing with his piercing. I just playfully gag, shoving him away from me. “You’re gross, Tom.” 

“You aren’t denying it.”

“Fine,” I stop by the deli section now. “I don’t have a dildo. I’m not replacing Jace he’s just a little much right now.” I inform him, grabbing some sandwich meat for Georg. 

“A little much?” He raises a brow.

“A little clingy.” I sigh, I can’t believe I’m talking to Tom about this out of all the band members. Of course, he’s not going to say anything to them but still. “Clingy?”

“Stop repeating what I’m saying by shortening it a little bit.” I snap and he puts his hands up in defense. “My bad, but what’s so bad about clingy?”

“Remember how he left me at 16? Since I traveled so much and everything?” I remind him and he nods. He wasn’t exactly around during that time but also Tom and I started our hatred for each other a few months before Jace came around. Which was when I just turned 15. 

“I remember.” He nods, “Well, the night of our first show he told me he wants us back. And As excited as I was to see him before the show, it made me think back to the actual very beginning.” I exclaim, tensing my hands around the bar of the cart. “Him leaving was too hard. I’m not doing it again. Honestly, I don’t want the same thing again.” I overly explain at this point and it makes me just want to shut my mouth right away but his response made me want to let the words flow like a stream.

“You have every right to how you think but you should let him know before we leave. Or ghost his ass on tour.” He tells me and I start chuckling. “I can’t do that.” 

“I mean nothing is stopping you.”

“My mind.” I point to my head dramatically.

“What’s making you keep him around?” He throws a cereal box into the cart along with bendy straws that are around it. I give him a weird look but just ignore it. “Can I get deep with you?” I bite at my bottom lip, staring at him. I don’t know what I’m doing. We hate each other and all of a sudden we’re in a store talking like we’ve been friends for the past three years. 

“I won’t tell anyone we got along if you won’t.” He sticks his hand out, stopping in the middle of the aisle like I did in the deli section. I glance down at his hand and then back at him. “Deal.” I shake on it. 

“I don’t think anyone else could love me as much as he does. I don’t want to lose that.” I laugh awkwardly, it feels weird saying it out loud. Again… to Tom. “Don’t think like that. His love is phony young love. You could definitely find something better.” He throws a few more things in the cart and at this point, his stuff was overpowering everyone else. If anything I’ll put some on Bill’s card and I won’t tell him. 

“You don’t know that though.” I remind him. “Dude, there’s guys around the world who would just love to fucking poke you. Trust me there’s someone.” He says a bit harshly but I had to give it to him, he was right.

Guys getting even eye contact from me to blow their minds. But I don’t want that. I want someone to want me for me not for because they knew me from my fame. “I am pretty great.” I gloat.

“Ah, don’t get too ahead of yourself.” He shakes his hands in my direction and I roll my eyes. “Like you aren’t?” We enter the toiletry area. “I am simply humble.” He says and I lift my eyebrows giving him a certain look and he starts laughing. 

“Okay.” I stretch up to reach a certain toilet paper and as I was grabbing it I didn’t see but there was one above about to fall. “Woah, be careful.” He comes right behind me, catching it but accidentally bumping me so his hand is on my waist to make sure we both don’t fall. I quickly turn around and apologize profusely. “Dude, you’re good.” He laughs, putting the toilet paper not where it was beforehand and then taking the one I held and putting it into the cart. 

The rest of the time was pretty simple, once we got to the register we had to make a bunch of different payments for each member, along with a few things for Johanna. Tom’s stuff took the longest and I’m surprised we even fit everything into one cart. 

Leaving together he took the cart this time and I just walked beside him. It was a more comfortable silence now. 

“Today was pretty good,” I said after we put all the stuff into my car. He looked at me, tilting his head. “Surprisingly… Yeah, it was.” He agreed. 

“Maybe we don’t have to hate each other anymore?” I laugh and he takes a deep breath. “That’s gonna be pretty hard.” My mouth goes into an ‘O’ shape, “Wow.” I huff out a little laugh and he grins at me. “We don’t gotta hate each other but don’t think the comments are gonna stop.” He points at me. “Wouldn’t dream of it because mine aren’t stopping either.”

This chapter is a little rushed and trust me their enemy part is not over yet. This is a decoy hoe. So be ready. I'm also incredibly sick right now so it's very hard to focus I've had like a lot of breaks typing this out so that's why it took so long. I'm sorry for that and I'm hoping I feel better tomorrow so I can write more. Thank you for your patience.

[aheathen-conceivably]

Antoine ran back into the room, quickly followed by Josephine and his Aunt Marguerite. The older woman took one look at Zelda and asked Florence how far apart her contractions were.

“They’re almost simultaneous now. Less than a minute between each one.”

Antoine's panicked eyes grew even wider and he couldn't hide the raw rage in his voice, “What does that mean? Tante I swear to God if anything happens to her…”

“Josephine, take your brother downstairs, now. Stay with him. Keep him calm, and keep him there.”

Jo pulled a reluctant Antoine to the club below, his protests growing louder with each step.

Antoine paced the parquet floorboards of the club for almost two hours, his embossed velvet shoes making a continuous, anxious song as the sun rose outside the double doors. Jo offered him one cup of coffee after another. “Whiskey, Jo. I want whiskey damnit.”

Over and over again she told him no, no whiskey. So they smoked an endless chain of cigarettes, occasionally hearing a scream reverberate down the stairs from above. Each time Antoine would throw his lit cigarette onto the ground, dashing for the door, and Jo would stomp it out only to grab him by the wrist, calming him with promises that their aunt and Florence knew how to help Zelda better than they could.

Finally their aunt appeared in the doorway, her face immediately putting Antoine at ease.

“You may come upstairs now; both mother and child are resting and healthy. Antoine, my dear, you have a little girl.”

Antoine rushed past them all, straight into the room where Zelda lay. She was holding a tiny baby, wrapped neatly in a white sheet so that you could barely see the tuft of black hair at the top. Florence was speaking quietly to her, offering words of reassurance and pride that Antoine could barely make out.

Zelda looked up at the new visitors entering the room, her exhausted eyes brightening as soon as she saw Antoine. With a small smile, she beckoned him over onto the bed.

Josephine looked at them, so lost in their own little world, fawning over the tiniest baby she had ever seen. She stood on her tiptoes and leaned in to get a glimpse of the child without disturbing Antoine and Zelda. Even from a distance it was clear that the child’s eyes were a deep olive green, just like her own and her mother’s had once been.

On the bed, the new parents seemed to lose sight of anyone in the room other than their newborn. They just sat in happy silence, stealing glances at one another, simply thankful that the three of them were together. As Antoine gazed down at his daughter with happiness in his eyes, his aunt signed the birth certificate: Violette Darlington, born August 1924, paternity unknown.

Part 2/2

[muniimyg]

⋆𐙚₊˚⊹ chaebol!jungkook (4) ⋆𐙚₊˚⊹ *nsfw*

series m.list // taglist closed.

note: have safe sex & don’t be like these two <3

🏷️ permanent taglist: @joonsjuice @pamzn @defzcl @maryy1300 @whoa-jo @taetaecatboy @jksusawife @un06 @firesighgirl @rrosiitas @butterymin @parkinglot-nights @musicjournalsjdb @kissyfacekoo @jkslvsnella @vampcharxter @bloopkook @kekerrreke @somehowukook @bbystarcandykoo

monday

jungkook comes home around lunch time. no words can describe how happy he is to see you half asleep on his couch with bam curled up with you. it's weird. his heart has never matched the pace of his dick before.

he wakes you up by joining you. as he lays his body on top of yours, you wrap your arms around him. he snuggles in closer, leaving kisses on your neck. "what'd you tell your husband?" he murmurs. you sigh as you play with his hair. "told him i went to visit my cousin, jiun."

he nods along, "that makes sense. didn't she just give birth like three months ago? three months is a good time to visit a new born." you're shocked by his memory. "how'd you remember—"

jungkook laughs hearty as he sits up and pulls you with him. "you wouldn't let me cum in you for like two weeks then. got all paranoid about having my baby or some shit."

you shrug. "having your baby wouldn't be so bad."

jungkook's eyes dim. "if you didn't have a husband, right?"

tiptoeing, you plant a kiss on his lips. "aren't you my husband?"

that night, jungkook fucks you like you're the only thing that matters to him. he missed you so much that he had no time to buy condoms. his heart goes on overdrive when you tell him it's okay. you say, "you can fuck me raw. i wanna know how you feel... give this to me, okay? give me all of you."

so he does. in so many ways, he gives you himself.

tuesday

the morning starts off with sex.

the coffee you brewed for the two of you goes cold as it sits on the nightstand, untouched. tangled in his bedsheets, you can't help but giggle at every gentle touch he places on you. it's different. sex with him has never felt like this before. it feels like lightning.

jungkook shoves his cock inside you for the nth time, causing you to squeal. as he towers over you, you moan at the sight of his chain dangling. you feel every inch of his cock pump inside of you, each stroke hitting your g-spot. it's so insane. like, you've never liked sex so much before this. before him.

in the back of your mind, you wonder if you can ever let this go. could you ever forget about this? how tuesday morning sex feels like with the man that you're practically forbidden to be with?

it doesn't matter.

right now, it's him. he's the only thing you see and feel... and he feels like a dream.

as the day goes on, jungkook does a lot of sweet things you never expected him to do. he helped dress you. he started you a bath. he made you lunch. he asked you a lot of questions about your family, ultimately trying to get to know you more. at one point, he looks at you a little too fondly.

"what's with the look?" you ask, hiding your face with your hands.

jungkook moves them, bringing them to his lips. kissing your hands, he looks at you with the sweetest eyes. "you're... evergreen. you know that? you blow my mind. that's all."

you cover up the fact that your heart melted by smirking and taking his hands back. "yeah, yeah... you know what else i can blow?"

wednesday

jungkook can't say he hates this.

you tied him up and spent the past hour edging the shit out of him. between you two, your sweat and pre-cum could fill buckets. he loves the way you're out of breath. he loves the way you're gliding your pussy against his dick, struggling not to cum.

"j-just put it in, wifey." you feel shivers go down your back as he calls you that. "fuck me like you love me."

you freeze.

"like i what?"

jungkook hisses. "s-shut up."

you shake your head. "no. say it again."

jungkook struggles with the rope. "untie me."

"no. say what you said again."

"why don't i show you instead?"

that's all it takes. you untie him and he fucks you like he loves you. as you cum and feel him throbbing inside of you, you want to say it. you want to make a confession. instead, you mumble his name in between kisses and hope he simply knows.

thursday

jungkook spends most of his day at work. he textes you a million times, acting all clingy. you text him back with the same energy and enjoy your day with bam. you clean his penthouse a little and start on dinner.

you make his favourite.

when he comes home, his fatigue posture goes away the instant you greet him at the door. "jungkook?" you peer out of the corner, bam following you.

"hey," he smiles, collapsing into your embrace. "d-did you cook? it smells like—"

"yeah," you flush. "i did. i also made seaweed soup."

"it's not my birthday," he laughs, taking his shoes off. he holds you by the waist, guiding you to the kitchen. over the stove, he watches as you lift the lids off the dishes.

"i saw your calendar when i was tidying your study. your birthday was a few months ago but the date was empty? you didn't celebrate with anyone, did you?"

jungkook blinks at you.

"so i made you seaweed soup. at the very least, we can celebrate together. i hope that's okay—"

jungkook kisses you.

then, he fucks you against the kitchen counter. against his kitchen island, he has you bending over. at one point, you jump on him, legs wrapped around like it belongs there. he brings you to his couch, and lifts your legs. jungkook eats you out for a good hour. he plays with your pussy, switching from fucking you to fingering you until your squirt. when you do, you stain the cashmere throw blankets he has on his couch. it's okay. he'd display them if he could.

jungkook has your legs in the air for so long, they hurt so bad. to soothe them, he runs you both a bath. sitting in his bathtub together, you two giggle uncontrollably over the bubbles and bath salts. you two are so close. so intimate.

he kisses your shoulders. he kisses behind your ear. he kisses every part of you that he can.

by the time you two clean up, the meal you prepared is cold. as you put on your pjs, jungkook reheats the food. you join him by wrapping your arms around him, hugging his back. his heart is filled with so much love as you two sit down and eat together. you feed him a few bites of the soup, sing him happy birthday, and cuddle him to sleep.

that night, he hates your fiancé the most.

friday

jungkook invites his friends over.

at first, you're nervous. completely confused why he would do such a thing, but when you meet them.. you get it. they're all so funny and sweet. it confuses you how jungkook has such a douchey personality when he has such amazing friends.

"i've never seen him like this," his friend jimin comments. "he explained the whole thing to us... and obviously, we've been begging him for months to give up and stop bothering you... but after meeting you; i get it. if i were him, i'd hate your husband too."

you don't know what to feel. a part of you is upset that jungkook would talk about your life with others but another part of you can't help but feel flattered.

when his friends leave, you pick a fight.

jungkook doesn't yell. he apologizes instantly and tells you that he would kill his friends if they ever outted you. you take his word for it, but still hate the feeling.

"make up sex?" he suggests.

you roll your eyes and shove his chest. "get over yourself, you big mouth, ignorant chaebol kid—"

jungkook grabs a hold of your wrists and pulls you close. he throws you over his shoulders and takes you to the bedroom where he shows you just how sorry he is.

you accept his apologies 5 orgasms later.

saturday

jungkook makes an effort to make sure you aren't seen exiting his penthouse. he hires security and makes sure your husband isn't around. for the first time ever, jungkook takes you on a date.

he brings you to an outdoor movie. it's set up on this little hill that overlooks a field of flowers. he tells you that it's his grandmother's field. that he grew up running through them with his brother and one time, he got stung by a bee. he refused to come back ever since.

"why are we here then?" you ask, feeling a little bad at the memory he has.

"they're pretty," he answers simply. "you're pretty. it made sense."

you smile at him. tilting your head, you kiss him. he chases your lips when you pull away. moving closer to him, you lean against him. he holds you as close as he can, watching the sunset and wondering if this is how it will feel like forever.

if every flower field and every sunset from here on out will remind him of you.

sunday

he was dreading for this day to come.

he hoped the world ended by now... because it will. the moment you walk out his door tonight, it will.

jungkook is an angel the entire day. you two wake up slow as the sun shines through his curtains. you two have a quickie in bed. you make brunch together. lazily cuddle on the couch and watch each other's favourite movies.

just like that; it's over.

he looks for every excuse in his head. he wonders if he should just print the divorce papers for you already—but that didn't make any sense. you weren't even married to him yet.

he still had a chance.

jungkook thinks fast. he wonders if he should do it. if he should take his grandmother's ring out from his nightstand and offer it to you. he should, shouldn't he?

then, just as he's about to excuse himself to get the ring—your fiancé calls. you pick up after the second ring.

"hey, love..." you say gently, offering jungkook a smile and excusing yourself to his study.

he curls his fists and wonders just how selfish he could be. he concludes that it doesn't matter. if he could have you—he'd give everything else up. he'd do it. he really would.

but when you come back, your warm eyes break his heart.

"what'd he say?" jungkook asks, breaking the silence.

"he asked how my trip was going. he asked when i'd be coming home... and if we could move the wedding up."

jungkook's heart breaks.

"up by how much?"

you gulp. "next month."

he has no words. all he does is nod and back away. you move forward, wrapping yourself around him.

"we have a few more hours left," you comfort him. "let's be together for a little longer.. okay?"

he looks at you, utterly conflicted.

then, you kiss him and his mind clears.

you'd win.

no matter what he says or does, you'd win. you'd win him, you'd win your fiancé. but fuck that because it doesn't matter who you choose. you'd always have jungkook.

he kisses you until you're out of breath. he fucks you in such a fulfilling way, you swear you see stars. it's so different from the other times. it's loving. it's wishful. every handful of your breast he squeezes, every lick of your pussy, and every thrust he shoves his cum in deeper inside of you—it's mesmerizing. it's unforgettable. it's everything you've ever wanted and ever thought to want.

jungkook gives you everything. every plea you whimper, every kiss, and every touch in between you two—he tries his best to remember.

jungkook fucks you like there's no tomorrow.

because there isn't one.

this was the end.

[topguncortez]

Day 9: The very noisy night ➢prompt: sleeping in shifts ➢character: Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw ➢warnings: traumatic birth, mentions of hemorrhaging, mentions of cardiac arrest, lack of sleep, mentions of alcoholism, mentions of trauma, happy-ish ending (jo told me no more unhappy endings. . . for now) ➢word count: 2.2k

|| masterlist || whumptober || whumptober masterlist || library page ||

Bradley had never realized how fragile life could be until the moment his newborn daughter was placed in his arms. Being able to hold a life in his hands was both the scariest and fantastic thing he had ever done. Years of feeling like no one cared, nothing mattered, that it would be so easy to just slip away from everything, to be reunited with the ones that he lost. He had spent nights crying into his pillow, looking at the bottle of pills on his desk, thinking how easily he could end everything. But then he would never get to this moment in his life. 

“Bradley, she’s not crying,” 

Those words cut through him like a knife as he looked down at the newborn on his wife’s chest. Her skin was a pale gray, and her body was still, as a nurse tried rubbing her back with a towel. Bradley looked up at the nurse, whose face was crumpled in concern as she tried to get the baby to cry. 

“Why isn’t she crying?! What’s going on!?” 

“We gotta get her to the NICU,” A doctor said, and quickly took their baby away from them. She let out a primal yell as they took her baby from her, and whisked her away. All Bradley could do was hold his wife as she tried to push herself up from the bed to go with their daughter. 

“She’s crashing!” A nurse yelled, and BRadley felt like he couldn’t breathe. 

“Baby?” Bradley looked down at his wife’s lifeless body against his. 

“You need to move,” A nurse said, grabbing Bradley’s arm and pulling him away from his wife. He couldn’t even comprehend what was happening as nurses, techs and doctors ran into the room and pushed him out. His mouth had gone dry as he stared at the closed door. 

There was a term in the military called “Hurry up and Wait”, something that most members hated. That’s what it felt like at that very moment as Bradley paced the floor of the waiting room, as he waited for a doctor to come and update him on his family. The last glimpses he had was of his daughter not breathing, and his wife dying in his arms. He took a seat, letting out a sigh, and looking at his hands. They shook with anxiety, as he wiped the tears falling from his eyes. Bradley Bradshaw wasn’t sure if he could go through another loss of losing the two people that meant the most to him. 

“Mr. Bradshaw?” Bradley picked his head up as he saw his wife and daughter’s doctor, Doctor Carpenter, in front of him. He stood up and had a smile on his face, but it quickly dropped seeing the expression on her face, “Your wife is in recovery, but she is still in a coma, to help her body recover. Your daughter is currently in the NICU.” 

“Can I see them?” Bradley asked, and Doctor Carpenter nodded. 

A midwife brought Bradley into a room, where his daughter was at. She was still connected to wires and tubes, and her heartbeat was displayed on a monitor. Bradley had never been so happy to hear that annoying beeping sound in his life. The midwife helped him get dressed in a gown and he put a face mask on. He walked over to the rocking chair in the room, as a nurse gathered the small baby from the incubator. 

“Alright, be mindful of the tubes,” She said, and handed the small baby to Bradley, “There you go.” 

Bradley nodded, not taking his eyes off the small human in his arms, “Hi there,” He said. The nurse left the room, giving Bradley a moment alone, “You’re a strong kid, Caroline. Ya know. . . you look just like grandma Carole, I think it’s the blue eyes.” 

It had been three months since the birth of Caroline Marie Bradshaw, and the first day since Bradley and Y/N could bring her home. The doctors were worried about her sleep apnea, and were waiting until she got a little bit stronger before sending her home with her parents. It sucked, it was one of the worst things ever being discharged and not taking his baby home with them. But Bradley and Y/N spent every single day going and visiting Caroline, and would spend the night. Even members of the Dagger Squad would come and sit with Caroline so they could shower or go eat. 

“Breaking the munchkin out of jail?” Bradley said, as he walked out of the hospital with his wife. Y/N smiled and looked down at the baby sleeping in her carseat carrier. 

“Yeah,” Y/N said, “I’m ready to be home.” 

“I am too,” Bradley said, and kissed her forehead, before opening the door to the backseat. He was thankful for all that time he spent practicing taking the carseat in and out of the base. He got the child secure in the car seat, before helping Y/N in. She was still a bit sore from giving birth, but was slowly getting her strength back up. 

Bradley drove about 10 miles under the speed limit, and despite Y/N saying he could go faster, he didn’t. Bradley was terrified of bringing Caroline home. At least at the hospital they had doctors and nurses by their side to help them in case something went wrong, but now they were on their own. Y/N seemed to be adjusting to the role of being a parent a lot better than Bradley was. Bradley carried in Caroline, while Y/N carried in her diaper bag. 

“Well, this is home, Caroline,” Bradley whispered as he set the carrier down on the floor. He undid the buckles and pulled her out, fitting her into his strong arms, “I’ll show you around.” 

Y/N laughed and set her bag down, before going out to the car to get the rest. She let Bradley show Caroline around the house and the backyard as she unpacked the bags from the hospital. She adjusted some stuff in the nursery, and pulled some stuff into their bedroom. Y/N sighed as she looked at the bassinet that had been sitting empty for three months, and smiled as she realized that it’ll finally have an occupant. The Bradshaws made it through the first day, and ended it with giving Caroline a bath in the kitchen sink. Rooster was tense and Y/N giggled as he apologized for getting water on their daughter. Y/N changed Caroline, and nursed her, they both got some skin to skin contact, before putting Caroline in her bassinet. 

“That’s how it should be,” Rooster said softly, looking at his sleeping daughter, “Not empty. I don’t like seeing it empty.” 

“I don’t either,” Y/N said, and stood up on her tiptoes to kiss his lips, “Not sure about you, but I am exhausted.” 

“Yeah, go to sleep, mama, I’ll stay up for a bit.” 

“You need to sleep too Bradley,” Y/N said, “Remember what the nurse said, ‘sleep when baby sleeps’.” 

“I know, I know,” Bradley said, “I’ll be right there.” 

Y/N nodded and walked over to the bed, pulling the covers back and climbing in. Bradley watched her settle into bed, and looked back at his daughter, who was asleep. Bradley couldn’t sleep, he was too scared to sleep. He was still slightly concerned that this was all a dream. That when he wakes up, this day would all be gone. Bradley sat on the bench at the end of their bed and watched their daughter, waiting for her to cry or to possibly stop breathing. 

That pattern went on for the first week. Bradley was only catching cat naps during the day, when Y/N was awake and Caroline was asleep. At night, he’d lay next to Y/N until she dozed off, then he would get up, sit on the bench and watch Caroline sleep, waiting for the moment her breath would catch. Except it never happened, but every noise or movement she made, had Bradley on high alert. Y/N didn’t know what was going on with Bradley. That he was having nightmares about the day Caroline was born. He could still see the terror on Y/N, the nurses, and the doctors face when Caroline wasn’t crying and then when Y/N’s heart stopped beating. The words that the nurse yelled played in his mind on repeat. 

Y/N knew she was sleeping too long. Her biological alarm clock had been adjusted to match with Caroline’s feeding schedule, and right now, she had been asleep too long. Y/N moved her hand, patting the empty side of her bed, and finding that the spot was cold. She pushed herself up from the bed, and looked around the room, finding it vacant for both her baby and her husband. Y/N got up, and tied her robe around her body, before rushing down to the nursery. Her mind was racing, the worst possible cases running through her mind. It was every parent's worst fear. 

“Caroline, please, I don’t know what you want!” Y/N could hear Bradley’s anguished voice sound from the living room. She ran down the stairs to see Bradley walking around the living room, trying to soothe Caroline’s cries. 

“Brad?” Y/N called out softly, “What are you doing?” 

“Go back to sleep, I got this,” Bradley said. 

“Bradley,” Y/N said again, and took a step closer to him, “Bradley, look at me,” Bradley looked at his wife. His eyes were wide, but also looked tired. He had dark bags under his eyes, and his hair was a mess. He hadn’t shaved in a couple days, and his beard started to grow in, “Are you okay?” 

“I’m fine.” 

“For the safety of our child, Bradley, are you okay?” Bradley let out a shaky sigh as he looked down at Caroline. He felt tears brim his eyes as he shook his head no. “It’s okay, it’s okay,” Y/N said, placing a hand on his shoulder, “Let me take her from you, okay?” Bradley nodded and handed Y/N the baby, “It’s okay Bradley. Thank you for telling me.” 

“I would never hurt her,” Bradley sobbed out, “I’m not a monster. I love her.” Y/N shushed him, and got Caroline situated to feed.

“I never said you would,” Y/N said, once Caroline’s cries ceased and she was feeding away, “It’s things happen when parents get tired. I know you read the books and know what could happen. It’s not on purpose, it’s by accident. I know you would never hurt Caroline.” 

Bradley nodded, and sat down on the couch, holding his head in his hands, “I feel like such a shitty parent. I put my child in danger cause I can’t get over my stupid nightmares.” 

“Bradley, you’re having nightmares?” 

Bradley nodded once again, “Ever since she was born. That. . .that moment where I didn’t know if you two were okay, plays in my head constantly.” 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Y/N said, and put her hand on his thigh, “Rooster, it’s more important than ever that we are talking to each other right now.” 

“I didn’t know what to say,” He sniffled, “I am supposed to be this great. . . fearless aviator, facing death like it's nothing, saving the day. But I am so scared I am going to go to sleep and wake up, and everything is just gone.” 

Y/N moved off the couch, so she could kneel in front of Bradley, Caroline was still in her arms suckling away. Y/N caressed Bradley’s face with one hand. She had seen this look of fear in his eyes before, it was years ago after the uranium mission. She had to help him move past his nightmares then. 

“It’s okay to be scared, Bradley. What happened to the both of us was terrifying. But it's not okay to just bottle it up inside of you. Remember what happened last time?” 

Bradley hung his head in shame. Bradley nearly lost everything after the uranium mission. Instead of turning to therapy and talking, he turned to alcohol and anger. He would come home, drunk, night after night and pick a fight about anything and everything. Y/N had called off their engagement, and left him, giving him an ultimatum. Bradley had nearly lost her then, and knew he had to clean up his act.

“Please don’t leave me,” He whispered. 

“I’m not, we’re not. But you need to talk to someone, okay? It’s more than just me now,” Y/N looked down at her daughter, and Bradley nodded, “And if it brings you some comfort, we can sleep in shifts. Every. . . 3-4 hours or so.” 

“It would,” Bradley nodded, “It would help my nerves. And I promise, first thing Monday, I’ll go talk to the chaplain.” Y/N nodded and leaned in to kiss her husband’s lips, “I love you, so much.” 

“I love you, Bradley. We both do.”

[2kidult]

⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡ SAY THE NAME

information about my seventeen dr

⌕ ‣     BASIC INFO

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ BIRTH NAME — sofie jo

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ KOREAN NAME — jo sohee

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ HANGUL — 조소희

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ NAME MEANING — from a sino-korean compound meaning "small joy", formed of the hanja characters 小 (so) meaning "small" and 囍 (hui) meaning "double happiness".

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ BIRTHDATE — may 9, 2000

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ AGE — 23 ❪ int. ❫ 25 ❪ kor. ❫

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ ZODIAC SIGN — taurus

⌕ ‣     CAREER

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ STAGE NAME — soso

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ HANGUL — 소소

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ COMPANY — pledis entertainment ❪ 2013 - present ❫

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ TRAINEE PERIOD — 2 years ❪ 2013 - 2015 ❫

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ DEBUT AGE — 15 years old

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ GROUP — seventeen

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ SUBUNIT — vocal

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ POSITION — main vocal, lead dancer, center, maknae

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ REPRESENTATIVE EMOJI — 🎀 / 🌟

⌕ ‣     PERSONAL

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ MBTI TYPE — mediator ❪ INFP ❫

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ DESCRIPTION — mediators may seem quiet or unassuming, but they have vibrant, passionate inner lives. creative and imaginative, they happily lose themselves in daydreams, inventing all sorts of stories and conversations in their mind. they are known for their sensitivity – these personalities can have profound emotional responses to music, art, nature, and the people around them. they are known to be extremely sentimental and nostalgic, often holding onto special keepsakes and memorabilia that brighten their days and fill their heart with joy.

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ STRENGTHS —

៹٠ empathetic

៹٠ generous

៹٠ open-minded

៹٠ creative

៹٠ passionate

៹٠ idealistic

៹٠ dedicated

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ WEAKNESS —

៹٠ perfectionistic

៹٠ unrealistic

៹٠ self-isolating

៹٠ unfocused

៹٠ emotionally vulnerable

៹٠ too eager to please

៹٠ self-critical

⌕ ‣     TRIVIA

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ PHOBIAS — thalassophobia ❪ fear of the ocean ❫

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ MEDICAL CONDITIONS — hypermobile eds

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ LIKES — cat &, dogs, farm animals ❪ cows, goats, sheep, ect ❫, forests, concerts, playing instruments ❪ especially piano & guitar ❫, flowers, romantic comedies, autumn, scented candles, music, sleeping, writing, photography, traveling, rain, art, fashion, animal crossing, reading

˳ ׄ ཐིiཋྀ ⟡ DISLIKES — THE OCEAN, gossiping, bugs, suburbias, stereotypes, mean people, the dark, hot weather

[blakelysco-pilot]

Hey bestie!!! For the oc asks (for both Val & Jo my beloveds), 👪 🎂 🎁 ☄️?

bestie thank youuuu 🥰from this emoji ask list

FAMILY - what is their family like? what is your ocs relationship to them? does your oc have any siblings?

Both Jo and Val are only children. Jo's parents stopped after her, because her mother barely made it when giving birth to Josephine. So, she's their only child- not spoiled, grew up knowing the value of hard work and a dollar. She's very close to both of her parents; her mother likes to spend time in the kitchen with her, baking cookies and cakes, and catching up over tea once. When she was little, she would make up gossip for her dolls, telling her mother just how Mister Snuffles and Lady Darling were arguing because the Lord of the manor wanted her to be all his, and didn't want to share him with Snuffles. When she's older, the gossip changes, naturally, but the sentiment never fades. Being an only child is something that she thinks about a lot, and I think sways her decision on how many children her and Rosie have. Val grew up under the watchful eye of her mother, and Nonna DiRosano- her late father's mother- after he passes away. She's young when he dies, which is why she clings so hard to Curt when they're children, and ultimately adults. He's not just a brother to her, but he's the man in her lift to protect her, the way her father would have if he was still alive. She's extremely close to both her mother and Nonna, and from an early age is brought up to be a lady (Lady Schmady, Curt would scoff, come play ball with me) and a good housewife. She learns to cook, clean her home, and bake sweets, so that when she's married one day she can do all of that for her husband. A good Italian housewife. Her signing up with the Red Cross leaves both mom and Nonna very cross with her for some time, even after they learn she'll be stationed with Curt in England, because a housewife does not go to war. But when they see her in her uniform for the first time, the pride sets in for them, and they know she's paving the way, a strong woman like they are, just in a different way.

BIRTHDAY CAKE - when is their birthday? do they like celebrating it?

Jo is a summer baby, born under the Cancer star sign on June 13th. As a child she always loved celebrating her birthday. She would get cake, and a trinket from her parents, and Rosie would always be allowed to come over to have cake too, which was her favorite part of the whole day. During the war, she enjoys it less so, because he's not there to have cake with her, or now that they're older, go dancing at a club. She finds the magic in it again after they're married, and he wakes her with breakfast in bed, and then a night at Minton's for dinner and dancing with their friends. When they have children, it's spending the day with them that makes her heart swell. Val is fall right down to the color of her eyes. Born under the Scorpio star sign on November 8th. Children's birthdays aren't celebrated in big parties in (traditional) Italian culture, but Val always shared a meal with her mother, Nonna and the Biddick's- and she would always request Sunday Sauce, no matter the day of the week. Cake's were either homemade or if they could stretch their change, from the Italian bakery in town, and more often than not, it was a casatta cake- no fudge and frosting in their house. During the war, Everett tries to make her birthday special, even if it's a night at the pub in town, or getting the fella who plays the piano in the Officer's Club to play happy birthday while Olive holds a lighter next to a leftover donut from the truck. She cherishes those birthdays in East Anglia because they're her own traditions that she made- so much so that even when they're home, he will go out to the store early in the morning before she wakes up, and buy a single donut, and wake her up with it.

PRESENT - what types of presents would they be most happy to receive? are they good at gift giving?

Both girls are excellent gift givers, and can often be found shopping together for someone's birthday. They will suss out the most special gifts for that special someone, sometimes needing to stretch their penny's a bit too far (sorry Rosie & Ev). The boys, while not the best at giving gifts, will always try, and most usually resort to a weekend away or dinner and dancing. When their children are born, both Jo and Val find that the homemade presents and drawings from their babies rank amongst their favorite presents ever received.

COMET - what do people assume about them? are they right?

Jo comes off as shy at first, but she's fiercely protective of those around her. Emotions run high with her, which is seen a lot in her letters to Rosie during the war, and her reactions to some of his letters back to her. When she learns that he's reupped (thanks Pappy) she's immediately fearing the absolute worst, calling Jean for moral support. The hours that pass see her cry, wring her hands together, and finally, she lands on stupid, stupid boy. The quiet ones are rarely ever, and Jo Harris is a prime example of that. Val comes off as the muscle, and hot headed, and you'd be fair to assume that about her. We see it when Olive and Dougie are at odds, which causes her and Ev to be at odds. But, in that hot headed, stubborn by nature Italian behavior, she's devastated and she just wants it all to stop. She wants the good back, and when she breaks down first in the arms of Benny DeMarco, and then Curt, we start to see the cracks. When we learn more of her past, and the man who truly broke her heart, we see why she's tough. Val is 5'3" with a 6'1" attitude, and she makes sure everyone knows it.

[bibimbinge]

10, 14, 18

10. Which Asian QL couple do you think is underrated?

I answered my fictional QL couple I think is underrated but lemme take this opportunity to answer AGAIN!

we got ThorFluke ONCE. exactly ONCE and you know what they did?? gave birth to icons. Jo and Army hold a special place in my heart for many reasons. Jo learning that he's *asexual AFTER years of experimenting with his sexuality is so important for ace rep cause I got tired af of the general public assuming asexual = pure virgin. I just love these two so much, they have great chemistry and not to mention I didn't care much for the main couple at all and mainly stayed through the series for them

*edit: thanks @lurkingshan for the clarification on Joe 🙏🏼 "he is a side, which in gay terminology means he does not like penetrative anal sex, but he is not asexual. He wants sex, he just prefers that it not involve penetration." Imma have to add that to my gay dictionary for later use 🙂‍↕️

14. Which Asian QL tropes do you want to send to the trash heap

main and/or side couple breaking up near the end of the series...

We DON'T need to go through heartbreak as dedicated viewers for one week for a QL to have great impact. Personally I think we should end all QL series on a fluffy filler beach episode where everyone is happy and in love. I DONT CARE IF ITS NOT UNREALISTIC!!! I WATCH THESE SERIES TO ESCAPE REAL WORLD!! NOT BE REMINDED OF HOW CRUEL REAL WORLD IS!!!

18. You get to pick a side character from two different QLs to put in a show as a main pairing -- Who are you choosing and what kind of story is it?

ever since Only Friends ended I've thought hmmm Mr-Stalker-Cause-I-Got-Trust-Issues Nick should end up with someone who'd make him realise that you don't need to plant spy cams and mics in various places to prove theyre unfaithful and that you can just trust them... and i think Porsche from ABAAB would be that man for him even though we know close to nothing about him other than his best friend is his ex. We know Porsche is kind, patient and SMOKING HOT. We know Nick's taste in men is smoking hot so that would reel him in but personality wise hes the complete opposite of Boston which is what he needs after the traumatic experience that is Boston... so yes

[kimdokjas]

HELLO GABY. WDYM ITS UR FATE OF BIRTH. HAPPY BIRTHDAY IHOP3 U HAVE A WOMDERFUL DAY ILYLYLYLYLYLY

fate..... omg orv reference...........

i'm extemely normal about my kdj bday as u can clearly see btw. sobbing THANK U JO MY LOVE ILYTTT I CHERISH AND APPRECIATE U SM <333

[mackenzielovee]

parenthood part nineteen: rivals

a/n: happy sunday besties!! i hope you guys enjoy this , i want all the thoughts so please let me know! reblogs are super appreciated! enjoy and sending everyone a hug xoxo (p.s. thank you to @astheskylinefalls for the name suggestion 😉)

warnings: swearing, complicated sibling/family dynamics, verbal arguments, allusions to smut

ambivalence masterlist , parenthood masterlist

     It has to be a dream. 

This is the first thought running through your head as you stand on your deck with a cup of coffee in your hand and slippers on your feet, smiling at the scene in front of you. It is a bright and beautiful Saturday morning, and when you’d awakened this morning with a groan and a refusal to get up, Rafe encouraged you to stay in bed. For once, you’d listened to him and fallen back to sleep.

Now, he stands in the shallow end of the pool with Josie in his arms, cheering Connor on as he shows the two of them his different jumps. You’ve gone unnoticed since you slipped out, and you hope it remains that way. 

The second thought, the one you’re both excited for and dreading, is the arrival of three happening later today. Ever since the birth announcement of Topper and Sarah’s sweet baby girl, everyone has been waiting for them to get permission to fly so they could come home. You feel as if you’re bouncing off the walls with excitement, but also not looking forward to the drama that comes with Sarah coming home. 

“Daddy, watch!” Connor exclaims, taking off and doing his best cannon-ball into the water. 

Rafe and Josie cheer for him as he pops his head back up in the water, grinning with pride when he sees the clapping. 

“That was great, buddy,” Rafe beams, “Right, Jo?”

“Great,” Josie agrees. 

“Can Josie do a jump with me?” Connor asks. 

Immediately, Josie latches onto the idea. She squirms in Rafe’s tight grip as he considers, weighing the pros and cons. You laugh to yourself, because Rafe used to tease you about being too protective over Connor. Now, as you watch him, you know he’s getting a taste of his own medicine as he considers all the ways his baby girl could hurt herself. 

“Please, dada,” she begs, sticking out her bottom lip in a pout. 

Rafe sighs and kisses her forehead, then nods, “Okay. But jump to me, okay, princess?”

“Okay,” she agrees. 

Rafe carries Josie to the edge of the pool and lifts her up, letting her stand while she waits for Connor to join her on the side of the deck. He takes her hand once he reaches her, then explains how to do a cannon-ball. 

You watch Rafe grimace with every step Josie takes; her toddler body unbalanced and her head extremely unprotected against the edge of the pool. Only once Josie has jumped in the water beside Connor and Rafe scoops her up do you see his shoulders relax. 

“Did you see, Daddy?” she asks, wiping wet hair from her eyes. 

“That was so good, baby,” Rafe smiles, “I’m so proud of you.”

Josie gives him a grin back, then seems to relax into his chest. Rafe kisses the top of her head as he cradles her while Connor moves over to the basketball hoop that rests near the shallow end of the pool. He fishes the ball from the water and throws up a couple of shots while Rafe watches, taking a seat on the steps of the pool. 

Rafe’s eyes start to wander, and you see the exact moment his eyes catch on your figure. He grins and waves you over, never looking away as you descend from the deck and down to the pool.

“Hey, Mama!” Connor cheers, “Wanna see me shoot the ball all the way from here?”

You smile, clinging to your coffee mug, “Go for it, bub.”

He shoots and hits the rim, then frowns when the ball splashes into the water. 

“Almost there, buddy, keep working on it,” Rafe encourages, then turns to you, “Hey, sweetheart.”

“Hey,” you answer, sitting down on the side and sliding your feet into the water. 

“Coffee still hot for you?”

You smile before you can help it; that even after so long, Rafe still makes the coffee every morning and worries to death that it won’t be hot enough by the time you get to it. 

“Yes,” you nod, “Thank you.”

He lifts his hand out of the water and places it on your bare thigh, where he gives you an encouraging squeeze. Josie sits up from his chest and gives you a wide smile, then holds her arms up to show you her floaties. 

“Mommy, Daddy made me wear these,” she reports, “I can swim, though. I’m a big girl.”

“You are, honey, but you’re not done with your swim lessons yet,” you remind her. 

She frowns, “So, I have to wear them?”

“Yes,” you laugh, “For now.”

“When I’m older like Bubby, can I take them off?”

“You can,” Rafe nods. 

“Okay.”

She caves easily and climbs off of Rafe’s lap, standing up on the stair below you and wrapping her fist around Rafe’s pointer finger. You smile at his refusal to completely let go of her, even when she’s reaching for you. 

“Did you notice the date today?” Rafe asks you softly, adjusting his sunglasses. 

You nod, “Yes.”

“You think she’ll call?”

You know what you really think, but you also know what Rafe wants to hear. 

Today’s the day he’s going to see his sister for the first time since she left town, and as much as Rafe doesn’t want to talk about her, you know she’s on his mind. Even if he won’t admit it. 

“Maybe,” you shrug, “Do you want her to?”

“No,” he says immediately. 

You nod to yourself, then set your coffee mug down beside you. Josie holds her hands out, and silently, you kiss your dry clothes goodbye as you lift her up and onto your lap. She lets go of Rafe’s finger, letting his hand fall into the water. 

At the action, Rafe turns to see what’s going on, then shakes his head at his daughter. 

“Jo, come on, you’re getting Mommy all wet,” Rafe frowns. 

“I wanna sit with her,” she says, snuggling in closer.

You nod over her head that it’s okay, and Rafe relaxes. His hand remains on your thigh, though, squeezing every so often just as his own way of saying he loves you. 

     Rafe is in the middle of getting Josie dressed for the day after her bath when your phone rings. Maddie, again. You pick it up and balance the phone on your shoulder as you press it to your ear. 

“Hello?”

“Hey,” Maddie greets you, sounding well-rested as ever, “I’m grabbing coffees and donuts on the way over, do you want anything else?”

You sigh, “Mads, you have a toddler and a baby. How are you finding the time to have coffee and donuts?”

It doesn’t help that you’re hurrying to find Connor’s white shoes, because he refuses to wear the blue ones and wants to wear the white ones because they’ll match his Uncle Topper.

“Oh, don’t be fooled,” she snorts, “I grabbed the keys when Kelce wasn’t looking and took off. I just needed five minute of quiet.”

You laugh, finding one white shoe under the couch, “Well played. But, no, I think that will do. Everything else in the guest house is pretty taken care of.”

When you turn, you find Rafe at the bottom of the stairs with a fully-dressed Josie. She squirms from his grip and runs off to the playroom while he stares at you, a somber expression on his face. 

“Okay, good,” Maddie continues, “See you in half-an-hour.”

“Okay,” you reply, keeping your gaze fixed on Rafe as you hang up, “What is it?”

He shrugs, “The guest house.”

“Yeah? What about it?”

“It’s just — I built that for us. Don’t get me wrong, I’m more than happy to see Top and my niece living there, but, y’know, I just wish they were doing it as a family.”

You nod in understanding, wasting no time closing the space between the two of you and wrapping your arms around him.

“They are a family, Rafe,” you remind him.

“You know what I mean,” he replies. 

“I do. I love that place, too, but it’s going to serve a great purpose. This is a good thing.”

Slowly, Rafe nods, “I know. Did you find his shoes?”

You hold up only one, making Rafe chuckle. He leans down and kisses the top of your head. 

“Go get dressed. I’ll find the other one,” he promises. 

You look up at him and peck him on the lips, grateful he’s always so willing to step up. 

“Thanks. I won’t be long.”

He nods and taps your ass as you walk away, giving you a smirk when you turn around and shake your head. 

     Two white shoes, a juice box, and a cooler full of beer later, the four of you are off to Ward and Rose’s. Maddie, Kelce, and the kids along with Ward and Rose are all outside when the four of you arrive. Connor and Josie run straight to Noah to play while Maddie holds Julian against her chest. 

Ward and Rose both beam with the proud expressions of fresh grandparents who are anxious to meet the newest addition to the family. Rafe grabs a beer for you, himself, and Kelce, opting for a water for Maddie since she’s breastfeeding Julian and takes every single precaution she reads on the internet seriously. 

As time goes by, you notice how quiet Rafe seems to be compared to his usual self. He loves Saturdays; especially ones with his friends, kids, and wife. But, today, all you notice is the way he calmly laughs at jokes when appropriate, sips on his beer, and never lets go of your leg under the table. 

“Rafe,” you whisper, “You okay?”

He nods once, “Fine.”

“You know lying to your wife is extra bad karma, right?”

The smile tugging on his lips is enough for you to relax. Out of the corner of his eyes, Rafe stares at you, trying his best not to laugh. 

“Sweetheart, everything is fine. I’m completely under control—”

“Aunt Sarah!”

Josie’s squeal draws Rafe out of his place of complete control, and as Sarah rounds the corner to the backyard, snatching Josie up as she runs to her, Rafe’s jaw clenches. 

“Fuck.”

“Relax,” you whisper as everyone stands. 

Topper follows behind Sarah with the baby carrier in hand, looking exhausted but happy as ever. He grins the second he sees you, and before you know it, everyone is surrounding the three of them. 

“Okay, guys,” Topper speaks, setting the baby carrier down and removing his daughter from inside, “I’d like everyone to meet Eleanor Rose Thorton.”

Everyone gasps at her name, but nobody gasps the way Rose does. She immediately bursts into tears and becomes the first out of everyone to hold the new, sweet baby girl.

Topper makes a bee-line for you the second Eleanor is safely with Rose, pulling you into a tight embrace.

“Finally,” you mumble in his ear, “I’ve missed you so much.”

“Same here. I have so many questions,” he admits.

You laugh and pull back, assessing his face up close. He has a bit of stubble and his undereyes are much more purple than you’re used to, but you can tell just by his expression that he wouldn’t trade it for anything.

“You can ask me anything,” you promise him. 

You’re not at all surprised when Kelce and Rafe snatch Topper away from you, pulling him into greeting embraces and trying to force beer onto him. Maddie steps to you and offers you Julian, who you greedily take from her. 

“Hi, handsome,” you whisper to him, watching him smile. 

“He’s beautiful.”

You and Maddie look up to find Sarah standing before you; sundress on, makeup done, and you envy how amazing she looks after just having had a baby. You offer her a smile and watch as she does the same, then give her a side hug as you remain cradling Julian. 

“It’s good to see you,” Maddie tells her, giving her a hug after you, “You look amazing.”

“You really do,” you add.

She beams, “Thank you both. Could I hold him?”

You and Maddie both nod as you pass Julian to him, and just as your arms grow empty, Rose steps over with Eleanor. 

“Look at her, Y/N,” Rose gushes, tears still in her eyes, “She’s so lovely.”

Even though she’s reluctant, Rose hands Eleanor over to you. The second you see her sweet, brown eyes, a pout forms on your lips. You laugh as you take in her outfit; a mismatched top and pants with blue socks. 

“Your daddy dressed you, didn’t he?” you whisper to her, “Don’t worry. I’m here for you. I won’t let him keep doing this to you.”

You look up in hopes of finding Rafe, to show him his niece, and find him already looking at you. You can’t read his expression, but you do recognize that little shift in his jaw and feel all too aware of the way his tongue wets his lips. 

You wave him over to you, watching as he immediately separates from the boys without a second thought. His beer bottle hangs between his fingers, almost like he’s forgotten he holds it. 

“Okay, sweet Eleanor, I’m your Aunt Y/N, and you have to meet your Uncle Rafe. You’ll have him wrapped around your finger in no time,” you whisper, smiling down at her.

She coos just as Rafe’s hand snakes around your waist, “What the hell are you trying to do to me?”

You look up at him with a furrow in your brows. 

“What are you talking about?”

He scoffs, “Standing over here, holding a baby, looking hot as—”

“Cameron,” you nudge him, teasing, “Come on. Be serious. Don’t you want to meet your niece?”

He looks down at her and smiles, reaching up to scratch her stomach, “Of course I do.”

You silently tell him to set his beer bottle down and then pass Eleanor over to him. Almost immediately, you see what he meant when he came over initially. The smile that spreads across his face as he cradles her makes it too hard to tear your eyes from, and when he starts to rock her, you’re sure you can feel your ovaries crying out to you. 

Rafe looks at you after a minute and snickers, taking in your expression and knowing all too well what’s going through your head. 

“Careful, sweetheart,” he urges, looking back down at Eleanor, “Wouldn’t take much convincing if you asked for one.”

You bite your lip, “Shut up.”

He laughs again, then nods to the group of adults moving toward the table, “Let’s go sit. Will you grab my beer?”

You nod and follow him to the table, where he remains caring for Eleanor. You sit beside Rafe and Topper sits beside you, while Sarah winds up at the opposite side of the table next to Ward. Without saying a word, you note how Rafe glances up at his sister and quickly looks away, clenching his jaw as he does so. 

“Was the flight okay with her?” Rose asks Sarah, who shrugs. 

“Topper pretty much handled everything,” she replies, “He was great. I was so tired, I had to sleep.”

Rafe snorts beside you, but the hand you place on his leg seems to have him bite his lip on any comment that might slip out. What you don’t expect, however, is Topper to come to Sarah’s defense. 

“She’s been up a lot with her, I didn’t mind. She needs her rest.”

Now, it’s your turn to clench your jaw, because over your numerous phone calls with Topper, you know he has been up with the baby, too. Rafe exchanges a glance with you, but you choose to let it go and pat his thigh to tell him. 

“Well, Maddie and Y/N have been working hard to get the guest house ready,” Ward smiles, clearly feeling the tension, “It looks great. And, seriously, if you need anything, please don’t hesitate.”

“Thank you,” Topper smiles, glancing at Sarah, “We’re very grateful for everything you all have done for us.”

You don’t miss the silence from your group, but you do look over and give Topper a smile. Ward and Rose break the silence yet again, asking trivial questions to Sarah about her apartment and her plans for Thanksgiving. 

Rafe leans forward to get Topper’s attention, careful not to move too much as Eleanor seems to be falling asleep in his arms. 

“She’s beautiful, Top,” Rafe whispers. 

“Thanks, man,” Topper grins, “She’s an amazing baby, really. Not a great sleeper, but she eats well and she giggles a lot. Right, Ellie baby?”

His eyes widen when he leans over and realizes she’s drifting off. You laugh as you take in his expression, and Rafe smiles but remains stoic out of fear of waking her. 

“Not a great sleeper, huh?” you tease. 

He shakes his head, “Normally, no.”

You laugh and look at Rafe, who finally seems okay with this entire thing. He smiles back at you, tipping his chin up as if begging for a kiss. Teasing him, you gesture him to lean over, to which he widens his eyes. 

“Baby,” he whispers, “I have the baby.”

You grin and lean over, pressing a quick kiss to his lips. He smiles, and for a brief moment, everything feels okay. Getting through the day seems possible. 

You barely even notice Josie wandering over to the table — too busy gushing over Ellie with Rafe — until you both hear her and look up. 

“Aunt Sarah,” she says, tugging on Sarah’s arm to gain her attention, “Are you comin’ home?”

Rafe’s eyes switch between his daughter and his sister, and when Sarah glances at the two of you for help, you know Rafe wants Sarah to handle the question on her own. For a moment, the entire backyard is silent. Then, Sarah swallows and offers Josie a smile. 

“I’m home right now, Jo,” she says slowly, “But, not permanently.”

Josie, who is not happy with that statement, furrows her brows, “Will you be home for my mom’s birthday?”

You already know she won’t be. Everyone at the table is aware of that. Yet, Sarah’s smile doesn’t falter. 

“Yeah, honey, I think so.”

Rafe visibly tenses beside you. Josie smiles and cheers, which breaks your heart. The silence continues, becoming even more deafening as the seconds tick by. 

“Please don’t lie to my daughter,” Rafe says, his voice even and calm. 

Sarah’s eyes meet her brother’s, “Rafe, I—”

“Josie,” you interrupt, earning her attention, “Do you and the boys want to pick some flowers for Ellie?”

She smiles, “Yes. Be right back.”

She takes off toward Connor and Noah, which allows for your complete exhale. Rafe, however, seems far from through. 

“I’m the one that’s going to have to break her heart by telling her you’re not coming,” he continues, “You get to hop on a plane and bail, but the rest of us have to deal with the damage you leave behind, Sarah.”

Ward’s hand goes up, “That’s enough, Rafe.”

“No, let’s let golden boy voice his opinion,” Sarah says, arms crossing over her chest, “God, Rafe, you think just because I’m not following in your footsteps of having the perfect little life on this island, I’m a terrible person. I’m finally making something of myself—”

“While sacrificing your family to get it,” he reminds her, “That’s not a decision that any of us can respect.”

“Really?” Sarah scoffs, “Everyone seems to be adjusting well. Everyone except for you.”

“Alright, how about—” Rose starts, but Rafe interrupts her by firing back. 

“No, Sarah, I don’t fucking respect your choice. You have a child now, and you’re still the most selfish person I know. You know, part of me thought that you’d change your mind when you saw her for the first time, but of course you didn’t. Being a mom is too much work for the great Sarah Cameron.”

Sarah laughs, loud and sarcastically. Kelce stands, looking over to Topper.

“Let’s take the kids inside,” he says quietly.

Topper nods and reaches for Eleanor, ignoring Rafe’s small ‘sorry’ as they switch. Kelce takes Julian from Maddie, then collects the three in the yard and guides them into Ward and Rose’s house. There’s a moment of full silence, and you nod to Maddie to tell her the two of you should go inside, too. The both of you stand and you squeeze Rafe’s shoulder, offering him support and love as you excuse yourself. 

Silently, you and Maddie walk to the back door, and just as you reach for the handle, she stops you.

“What are you doing?” she questions. 

“Going inside,” you say, “Why, what—”

“I want to listen,” she confesses, “Come on, they can’t see us over here.”

Reluctantly, you nod and follow her, figuring it’s better to hear it first hand than make Rafe tell you everything later. 

“Can we not do this, please?” Ward sighs, “Rafe, your sister is only home for a few days, let’s just enjoy this time with her—”

“You’re defending her?” Rafe questions, glaring at his father. 

“You’re attacking me,” Sarah points out, “All because I don’t want to end up like Y/N.”

Your heart sinks in your chest at that comment, but you don’t speak a word out loud. You can feel Maddie’s eyes on you, but you can’t look over at her. Instead, she takes your hand and squeezes it, comforting you more than she knows. 

“What the fuck does that mean?” Rafe practically growls. 

Sarah laughs, “Come on, Rafe. She lives this never-ending cycle of drop-offs and pick-ups and work and brunch at the Club. She’s a housewife and works a job on top of that, all with you breathing down her neck about Josie or Connor. I will not be a Figure Eight Barbie Doll—-”

“That’s enough!” Rafe shouts, and you can tell by the way his chair legs scratch against the pavement that he’s standing, “My wife has been your shoulder to cry on for years. She has cheered you on for every fucking accomplishment, she organized your fucking engagement party — which you didn’t need, turns out — and, throughout all of this bullshit, she’s defended you. Defended your choice to stay in Boston, defended your choice to leave Topper and your fucking daughter. How dare you turn around and disrespect her—”

“I’m not,” Sarah says, “I just don’t want to end up like her. I don’t want to be the mom and the wife. I want to be a person.”

You can practically see Rafe roll his eyes, “Fuck you, Sarah.”

“Come on, now, both of you,” Ward sighs, “That’s enough. Rafe, sit down. Sarah, stop trying to make your brother mad.”

“Dad, I’m not doing it intentionally,” Sarah replies. 

“Really?” Ward fires back, surprising you, “You thought bringing up Y/N in that way would keep him calm?”

You squeeze Maddie’s hand, grateful that Ward defends you even in your absence. You hear Rafe’s chair against the pavement again and guess that he listened to Ward and sat back down. 

“You okay?” Maddie whispers. 

You give her a nod, “Yeah.”

“Alright,” Ward says, his voice loud, “I’ve had it with both of you. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do, given both of you are adults — parents — and shouldn’t need me to delegate. How do the two of you want to handle this?”

Silence falls on the deck. You wish you could see Rafe; know exactly what he’s thinking at this moment. He clears his throat, ready to speak, when Sarah stops him. 

“I’ll just go,” she answers, “It’ll give everyone time with Eleanor and Topper. We can both cool down and try to figure something out tomorrow.”

“Rafe?” Ward questions. 

He’s quiet for a moment, “I don’t want you around my family until you figure your shit out. I don’t want you lying to my children and insulting my wife—”

“Y/N is my friend, Rafe,” Sarah defends. 

“She is,” he agrees, “But, you’re not a friend to her. Part of me questions if you ever have been. You and I can try to work something out tomorrow, but you won’t be around my family for a while.”

Ward and Rose are both silent at that. You hear Sarah audibly sigh, and the sound makes you want to roll your eyes. 

“Fine,” she replies, “I guess I’ll go.”

You turn to Maddie, “Let’s go inside. I don’t want Rafe to know we heard all of that.”

She nods and gestures to go around the side of the house, where the two of you round to the front and use that door to slip inside. The two of you find the boys and the kids in the living room, and you smile when Connor hurries to you. 

“You okay, Mama?” he asks. 

You smile, “Yes, handsome, I’m fine. Have you been having fun?”

He nods and launches into a story about a game he played with Noah. You glance over at Topper and find him cradling Eleanor, but looking up hesitantly at you. You shake your head slightly and give him a sad smile, telling him everything he needs to know. He sighs and glances back down at his baby girl, continuing to bounce her and smile. 

The back door opens a few minutes later. Rose walks in, then Ward, and finally, Rafe. He’s holding a freshly opened beer bottle and sporting a glare, but when his eyes find yours, his shoulders fall and his eyes grow heavy. 

You lean over to Connor, who is playing on your phone, “I’ll be right back, bub.”

“Okay,” he answers. 

You stand and walk around the couch, crossing into the kitchen where Rafe is. He swallows roughly when he sees you, clearly thinking you’re going to ask him about what was said. Instead, you pull him in, wrapping your arms around him in comfort. He sets his beer bottle on the counter and takes hold of you, squeezing you tight and burying his face in the crook of your neck. 

“Stay or go?” you ask him. 

He doesn’t pull back in the slightest. When a response doesn’t come, you don’t push him. He breathes you in and lets his hands travel over your back, touching the skin peeking out from your dress. 

After a minute, he lifts his head just enough to meet your eyes, then smiles. 

“Stay,” he decides, “I want to spend time with my niece.”

You nod, “I like that idea.”

His eyes travel over every square inch of your face, and you let him take all the time he needs. 

“I love you,” he whispers, “Give me a kiss.”

You smile and do as he says, keeping it appropriately short but long enough to please him. When you pull back, you smile at the change you find in his eyes. 

“I love you, too,” you tell him. 

He grins and takes your hand, “C’mon. Let’s go hold Ellie.”

     After dinner and a few hours of gushing over Eleanor, you and Rafe load a sleeping Josie and a tired Connor into your car. Rafe opens your door for you and gives you a kiss once you’re inside, then hurries over to the driver’s side. His hand rests on your leg for the drive, and he doesn’t bother with the radio. 

“So,” he says, stealing a glance at you out of the corner of his eye. 

You laugh, “So, what?”

“You haven’t asked me what happened.”

You purse your lips, unable to lie. You cave and cover his hand with your own, then sit back against your seat and look over at him. 

“Maddie and I hid on the back porch and listened to everything,” you confess quietly. 

You’re not sure what to expect, but when he breaks out into a wide grin, you can’t help but feel relief. 

“Why am I not surprised,” he mutters. 

“I’m sorry, Rafe, it’s just—”

“Sweetheart,” he stops you, his voice soft, “You don’t have to apologize. I never wanted you to leave the table in the first place. I appreciate that you did, but you didn’t have to.”

You nod, squeezing his hand, “It was intense. Are you okay?”

You watch him swallow, thinking back to it all. You’re sure he’s replaying every word, every emotion on a loop in his head. 

“I don’t know,” he finally says, glancing at you again, “Do you think I made the right decision? Telling Sarah she can’t be around our kids?”

You tell him the truth, “I don’t think there’s right or wrong in this situation. You did what you think is best for our family. I’ll always back you up.”

Your words bring more silence, but the gentle squeeze of your thigh tells you what your words mean to him. The rest of the drive home is like that; to the point where you practically fall asleep in the passenger seat. Rafe snickers when you stir as he pulls your car into the garage. 

“Want me to carry you inside, too?” he teases. 

“Yes, please,” you reply, laughing. 

He shuts the car off and leans over, stealing a kiss from you. Your smile only grows, and your eyes flutter shut once again. 

“Let me get the kids in first, and I’ll come back for you.”

You shake your head, “Rafe, I’m kidding.”

“I’m not,” he says, and you detect something in his voice you’ve only heard a few times before, “Let me do this for you. Please.”

Your eyes open and you see him, desperate to perform an act of service for you. Your hand runs over his cheek as you admire him, then give him a smile. 

“Okay,” you practically whisper. 

He beams and kisses you again, then hops out of the car. Connor wakes when Rafe opens the back door, and climbs out with the help of Rafe’s hand. Then, Rafe grabs Josie from her car seat and takes both kids inside. 

You remove your phone from your purse and stare at the blank screen, wondering for a moment if Sarah will ever reach out to you again. Shaking that thought, you type out a text to Topper.

Settling in okay?

His response is quick.

We’re great. E’s down (for now). Sarah’s not picking up. How’s Rafe?

You contemplate how to answer that, given that you hadn’t told Topper what Sarah said outside. You doubt you ever will, given it will not help any part of his situation with her. 

He’s okay. Taking care of the kids. 

You lock your phone and think about the day, then try not thinking about it, instead. Even then, you can still hear Rafe’s words as he defended you with Sarah, and that seems to be all that matters to you. 

You’re pulled out of your thoughts a few minutes later when Rafe pulls open the passenger door, smiling at you before he scoops you up in his arms. You laugh and lock your hands behind his neck as he carries you inside. He tosses you gently onto your bed once you reach your room, then sits down beside you on the mattress. 

“I hope Sarah’s words don’t bother you,” he says, “She doesn’t know what she’s talking about.”

You raise your brow at him, “Yes, she does. But, it’s okay that she doesn’t want what I have. I’m happy, Rafe, and your sister can’t take that from me. From us.”

He grins, “You’re so fucking gracious. I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

With a smile and a kiss, he leans you back down onto the mattress, where he wastes no time tucking his fingers underneath your dress straps. He removes it all too easily, and before you know it, he’s giving you every ounce of love he has in him — all saved up for you.

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